School board approves Prop 28 annual reporting on fiscal year 23/24
Parent representative spot open on the AUSD Budget Advisory Committee
By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com
ATASCADERO—The Atascadero Unified School District (AUSD) Board of Trustees met for its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 6, at 4 p.m. Trustee Tracy Ellis-Weit was absent from the meeting, and the live stream did not start until after the Superintendent’s Report and most of the councilmembers’ reports.
Both the Minutes for the June 11 meeting and the Consent Agenda passed unanimously with no items being pulled.
Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Kendyl Darnell addressed the trustees with the informational item Fiscal Year 25/26 Budget Development. Trustee Vy Pierce brought up the fact that there is an opening for a parent representative on the Budget Advisory Committee and asked how parents within the school district could be notified of the fact.
“My idea behind it would be to inform our parent community that this opportunity is available and then also to reach out,” Darnell stated. “We always have specific parents that have been a part of school site councils or ELAC committees who have shown an interest in having these conversations. Reaching out to them directly, seeing if they would like to join or if they have a community member that they know of who would like to be a part of it. But it would be proactive outreach to try to find someone.”
Darnell also brought forth the 24/25 State Adopted Budget Update (45 Day Revise). The state finalized and adopted their budget at the end of June.
“The adopted state budget does not have any material changes that will impact the adopted budget for AUSD,” Darnell said. “The state is going to fund the 1.07 percent COLA. The state-adopted budget does include a June to July deferral. However, this will be a cash flow challenge that can be managed and will not impact our ability to continue with any programs that we have in place. And finally, Proposition 28, the Arts and Music in Schools Funding Guarantee and Funding Accountability Act will remain unchanged. It represents 1 percent of Proposition 98.”
The next item on the agenda
LIGHTHOUSE All Comers Track Meet returns for 25th year
Athletes from all over the Central Coast came out to participate
By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com
ATASCADERO — Athletes of all levels came out from all over the Central Coast to participate in LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero’s 25th Annual All Comers Track Meet. The meets were held Wednesday, July 10, 17, 24, and 31, from mid-afternoon until the evening, with running events starting around 6 p.m. All Comers, like in years past, took place at Atascadero Memorial Stadium at Atascadero High School (AHS) and brought in around 200 athletes every week.
“It’s just an amazing event. Just to see all the families come out, and even when the
fair was going on, they made that choice to come here, and it’s just a breath of fresh air to see them all participate. The little ones, especially all running,” said Valerie Kraskey, who’s on the Board of Directors at LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero.
Families were all over the football field as they waited their turn to compete in the track meet or were there just to cheer on their athletes. On top of all the running events, people of all ages could also sign up for discus, shotput, turbo javelin, pole vaulting, and the long jump.
“It’s a really good activity for the entire family. You’ll see that. You’ll see that it’s whole families from grandmas to little kids, babies, that are there,” stated LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero Executive Director Donn Clickard. “It’s very exciting, and a very fun evening. A lot of energy.”
The track meet was started by the Atascadero Greyhound Foundation 25 years ago to provide activities for the community to give local kids constructive pursuits for their leisure time, which is one of the ways that AGF (through LIGHTHOUSE) began helping the community fight drug culture. Since the beginning of this year, the organization has rebranded and now goes by LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero, and will continue to use that name going forward.
“It was just too confusing for people. So the board about a year ago decided that we were going to rebrand ourselves and it was going to be LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero founded by the Atascadero Greyhound Foundation,” Kraskey said.
All Comers is completely run by volunteers who can’t wait to see the smiles and
Templeton’s firefighters receive federal funding for long awaited new firetruck
Station’s current truck is 22 years old and has been experiencing engine issues, making it inoperable at times
By MAYLIA BAIRD Contributing Writer
Thursday, Aug. 1, local political figures and firefighters gathered to celebrate the Templeton Fire Station receiving federal funding for a longawaited new firetruck.
Concerns have been stated for quite some time by Chief Tom Peterson that their current firetruck has been becoming more and more unreliable. The truck is 22 years old, and its engine has been experiencing issues for a while. Peterson noted that he had made many reports to the Templeton Community Service District: Once explaining how the fire engine needs repairs, the other that it was unavailable, and others explaining how they had to borrow another fire engine from a neighboring station.
When 19th District U.S.
Congressman Jimmy Panetta was finally contacted, he secured the Fire Department a $1 million federal grant for the new truck. This was made possible because of a United States Congress program called Community Funded Projects, which is federal funding granted to local projects.
“This type of federal investment will not just be an upgrade but this [federal] investment toward a new fire truck will enhance our firefighters safety and their everlasting promise to be ready and respond,” said
Panetta in his speech.
Several years ago, Templeton was at risk of losing their fire department due to lack of funding. Templeton residents were asked what additional funding was needed to staff the fire department 24 hours and seven days a week. Then, in 2019, Templeton residents voted and said yes to providing more funding to the fire department.
“With nearly 80 percent yes votes, we all demonstrate the importance of our fire department to our community, and
Local candidates gear up for November General Election
Paso Robles, Templeton, and Atascadero see growing roster of hopefuls for city and school board seats
By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@atascaderonews.com
NORTH COUNTY —
We are another month closer to the Nov. 5 General Election, and more hopefuls have joined the local political race. We have taken a look at hopeful candidates looking to run for both Paso Robles, Templeton, and Atascadero seats.
In Paso Robles, there are three City Council member seats up for grabs this November: • City Council District 1 for a partial term of two years City Council District 3 for a full term of four years City Council District 4 for a full term of four years Find the district map here: prcity.com/DocumentCenter/ View/34109/District-Map--2022-2032-PDF
Currently vying for the District 1 seat are now four candidates: Xavier Abarca, Kris Beal, Sharon Roden, and Linda George. Roden currently holds this seat and was officially sworn in to serve the District 1 seat during the Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2023, City Council meeting. Roden is a farmer and fifth-generation San Luis Obispo County resident. She previously stated that her focus is to help Paso Robles move forward while preserving its history.
that is why today is such a special day for Templeton residents,” said Navid Fardanesh, President of the Templeton Community Service District.
“With a new type 1 fire engine, our firefighters will be able to respond to fire emergency calls with an engine that is more reliable. We no longer have to see reports from our fire chief saying that the fire engine needs repairs and is unavailable or that we had to borrow another fire engine from another jurisdiction. This new type 1 engine will be the central asset for the safety and well-being of our residents for years to come.”
The Templeton Fire Department is a small department that has struggled with funding challenges for quite some time. They have the responsibility of protecting a community of over 10,000 people and have been struggling to function with a 22-year-old firetruck.
Peterson has been in this department for 35 years now, and said, “I’ve never experienced shortages in apparatus, equipment, personnel and
Beal and George were both candidates in the September 2023 interviews and were beat out by Roden. Beal is a Paso Robles High School alumna and former nonprofit executive director. George has a background as a campaign member and lobbyist. Abarca entered the race at the start of August. There is no further information on Abarca at this time, but according to the Paso Robles City elections website, Avarca and George had not yet collected the number of signatures required to qualify for running for the seat at the time of printing this article.
As of Tuesday, Aug. 6, there are four candidates vying for the District 3 seat. Jeff Carr, David Nelson, Michael Rivera, and Steve Gregory. All except Nelson have been qualified to run. Gregory is currently serving as the District 3 City Councilmember. Rivera threw his hat in the ring for Paso Robles City Mayor in a previous election against the late Steve Martin.
In District 4, we see the current City Councilmember Fred Strong running for another term, with Glenn O’Hagan also bidding for the spot. Neither have been qualified to run yet. Also up for election is the City Treasurer which is an at-large seat for a full term of four years.
Young male athletes take off from the starting line at the 25th All Comers Track Meet at Atascadero High School. Photo by Christianna Marks
The Templeton Fire Department’s current firetruck is shown inside the station on 5th Street, but a new one will be on the way. Photos by Derek Luff
hard work pay off for everyone who comes to partcipate. The only paid professional every year is the timer.
“We’ve never had a bad one. They’re so fun. There’s always something that happens that’s pretty special. We had a 400-meter team that came up from Santa Ynez High School,” added Clickard, describing how far people come from to join in the fun.
Weekly, the field was also full of people from Templeton, Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, and more, including 5-year-old Huxley White from SLO, who was there on July 31 to participate in events like the long jump and the hurdles in her age class. White told Atascadero News that she was having so much fun.
“You go like this high,” White said as she demonstrated jumping over a hurdle, “And then you go over.”
When asked what happened when she got to the finish line she responded “I got the ribbon.” White came in third place in her match.
“All Comers, even the name
implies it’s open to anybody of any age,” Clickard added. “We do have kids from 4 and 5 years old running the 6-meter hurdles to senior citizen types that are doing the discus.”
The weekly track meets were $5 per participant and all that money will go toward the many
programs that LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero supports. Currently they have programs at Atascadero Middle School, Paloma Creek High School, and the Wellness Center at Atascadero High School.
To check out your scores if you participated in All Comers, or to see
2. The number of pupils served 3. The number of school sites providing art education through Prop 28 funds
was also about Prop 28 and was presented to the trustee board by Assistant Superintendant of Educational Services E.J. Rossi.
“So our first item tonight is a new item,” Rossi said. “It’s for Prop 28, Mrs. Darnell just spoke about, that has an additional requirment that at the end of each fiscal year every school district will bring to their board an annual report.”
The first year of funding was for school year 23/24. Rossi stated that during that year, they spent no money and hired no staff. The annual report requires the district to report three things: 1. The number of full-time equivalent employees that were hired specifically for art
funding that we are experiencing today. As our call volume increases and our community grows, this new engine is a critical piece of equipment that helps secure the much-needed reliability and safety to our community and our firefighters.”
State Assemblymember Dawn Addis (30th District) was also present at the press conference on Thursday, showing her support for the station and expressing gratitude to the firefighters who have been working hard this fire season.
“I also wanted to say thank you to the emergency personnel that are fighting wildfires — some of the largest wildfires across our state right now and I know our area often sends mutual aid and I just want to recognize the deep, deep work that all of you have done — the firefighters and emergency personnel here in North County,” Addis said during her speech.
Incumbent Ryan Cornell is the only person so far running for the position.
Additionally, Paso Robles residents will vote on Measure I-24 which includes three resolutions: Resolution 24-069 — Calling for the Placement of a General Tax Measure on the Ballot for the General Municipal Election (edocs.prcity. com/WebLink/DocView. aspx?id=74351&dbid=0&repo=CityOfPasoRobles&cr=1) Resolution 24-070 — Requesting Consolidation of Municipal Election: Ballot Measure (edocs.prcity.com/ WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=74352&dbid=0&repo=CityOfPasoRobles) Resolution 24-071 — Providing for the Filing of Primary and Rebuttal Arguments
“The report is easy but the purpose was hazy this year as the state was eager to get funds out for this, but incredibly slow in getting the accountability and what is allowable for funding,” said Rossi.
Because accountability and what is allowable for funding didn’t show up until May through auditors district-wide, most districts in California didn’t spend any of their Prop 28 funds in the 23/24 year. However each school’s have a three-year window to spend each year’s funds.
“Now that we have the audit requirements, we’ve been working very closely [educational] services with our school sites, with human resources, and our business department on what’s allow-
“We’re here to be a partner for the congressman, a partner to the county.”
Being a long-time Templeton resident himself, SLO County Supervisor John Peschong was there showing support for the station as well.
“It’s not always easy being on the CSD to get things done that actually happen, to take action to make things happen, and we’re able to do that working with the congressmen,” Peschong explained during his speech.
He knows that the firefighters are going to be appreciative and continue to make a difference in the community with this new firetruck.
“I will tell you my personal first-hand experience as they saved my life; I know that they will be able to save other people’s lives in this community, and that to me is what this is all about,” Peschong said.
He added that he believes the fact that they were successful in receiving this grant shows the public that the federal government is capable of making a difference in people’s lives on a local
and Setting Rules for the Filing of Written Arguments Regarding a City Measure (edocs.prcity.com/WebLink/ DocView.aspx?id=74353&dbid=0&repo=CityOfPasoRobles) For more information on how to run for City Council, visit prcity.com/1041/Elections.
In Atascadero, residents will vote for a new mayor after Heather Moreno won the District 5 San Luis Obispo County Supervisor seat, replacing Debbie Arnold, who did not seek another term on the county board. In addition, City Councilmembers Charles Bourbeau and Mark Dariz both have terms ending this year. Bourbeau has already announced that he is seeking the Atascadero mayor’s seat.
More details for the Atascadero City Council seats will be available after Aug. 9.
Election details can be found here atascadero.org/2024-general-election
On June 25, the Atascadero City Council approved a resolution to place Measure L-24 on the ballot for the November 5 General Election that will extend Measure F-14 — a sales tax adopted in 2014. The measure, titled Atascadero Local Roads and Vital Services Funding Extension Measure, will ask voters to extend the existing half-cent per dollar (0.5 percent) general sales tax that is otherwise set to sunset in 2027. You can find more information on the resolution here: atascadero.org/news/november-5th-general-election-ballot-measure-l-24
For the Atascadero Unified School District (AUSD), there are three at-large seats available each running a term of four years.
LETTER POLICY
LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero’s new website, go to lighthouseatascadero. org/all-comers.
All Comers will be back on Wednesdays in July 2025, though the exact dates have not been officially released at the time of printing this article.
able, how we meet the audit guidelines, how we attract and hire additional staff to provide the additional services to our kids,” continued Rossi.
As a district, AUSD applied for a waiver that would allow the use of more than 20 percent of the remaining funds for materials and supplies. Currently 80 percent of the funds are required to be used to hire new staff for the arts in AUSD schools. Rossi said that it is hard to find staff who is certificated or qualified to teach art and also brought up that AUSD is also one of the few districts that maintained music programs throughout elementary schools while others cut them.
The Prop 28 Annual Report was passed unanimously.
The next regularly scheduled AUSD Board of Trustees meeting will be on Tuesday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m.
Current board members with expiring terms in 2024 are: Matt Pennon, Terri Switzer, and Corinne Kuhnle. Pennon and Kuhnle have both confirmed they will run for another term alongside challenger Veronica “Roni” DeCoster, whose occupation is listed as paralegal, bookkeeper, and parent.
The district is also adding Measure B-24 to the November ballot. You can find more information on the measure here: slocounty.ca.gov/ departments/clerk-recorder/ forms-documents/elections-and-voting/current-elections/2024-11-05-presidential-general/documents/ appendix-c-signed
The Paso Robles Joint Unified School District (PRJSUD) has four seats up for grabs this November for Trustee Areas 3, 5, 6, and 7.
For Trustee Area 3, Nathan
Williams and Hunter M. Breese are vying for the seats. Williams is currently on the board and is serving as board president.
For Trustee Area 5, Laurene D. McCoy, who is already on the board, is running for a second term.
For Trustee Area 7, incumbent Kenney Enney and challenger Tracy Dauterman are vying for the seat.
There is no one in the running for Trustee Area 6. The PRJUSD is currently making the transition from an at-large to a Trustee Area board.
In the Templeton Unified School District (TUSD), there are three at-large seats open. Current trustees with expiring terms are Ted Dubost, Cheryl Parks, and Nelson Yamagata. Only Dubost is currently running for another term. There are no other candidates running for TUSD as of Aug. 6.
GOVERNMENT CONTACTS
The candidate nomination period is July 15 through Aug. 9. To run, candidates must submit their nomination paper signed by no less than 20 or more than 30 registered voters within their district boundaries. An at-large seat like treasurer must include registered voters within city limits. Candidates must make their initial appointment with the City Clerk, allowing for enough time to get the signatures and return them to the clerk prior to the Aug. 9 deadline.
The deadline to return completed nomination papers is Aug. 9 at 5 p.m. However, it may be extended to Aug. 14 if the incumbent does not file the necessary papers by the initial deadline.
Atascadero News will be following the election and providing coverage in the upcoming months.
Peterson told The Atascadero News, “I think that this is great for the community of Temple-
ton... long overdue [fire] engine for the community. We really appreciate congressmen Panetta’s office stepping in and helping us secure funding.”
The Templeton Fire Department, shown here on 5th Street in Templeton, will be getting a new firetruck after U.S. Congressman Jimmy Pannetta helped secure a federal grant. Photos by Derek Luff
Young female athletes participate in kid’s hurdles at the All Comers Track Meet in Atascadero.
Photo by Christianna Marks
Athletes of all ages participated in the All Comers Track Meet, which ran four Wednesdays in July.
Photo by Christianna Marks
ATASCADERO — On June 25, the Atascadero City Council approved a resolution to place Measure L-24 on the ballot for the November 5 General Election that will extend Measure F-14 — a sales tax adopted in 2014. The measure, titled Atascadero Local Roads and Vital Services Funding Extension Measure, will ask voters to extend the existing half-cent per dollar (0.5 percent) general sales tax that is otherwise set to sunset in 2027.
“The adoption of this measure will not increase the current sales tax but simply extend the current Measure F-14 rate,” said Mayor Heather Moreno. “Funds from the measure have significantly improved the quality of neighborhood
LOCAL NEWS
roads in Atascadero and assisted with other vital services. Extending F-14 by adopting L-24 would enable the city to continue delivering key services for the community.”
A general sales tax is a tax approved by local voters that is applied to the sale of goods and services to raise funds for that jurisdiction. Staples like groceries and medicines are excluded from the tax. Revenue from general sales taxes can be used for a variety of general services, such as public safety, city programs, and more. Since 2015, Measure F-14 funds have been predominantly used to maintain and repair neighborhood roads.
Originally approved by the voters in 2014, Measure F-14 generates approximately $3 million per year in general fund revenues, which is 9 percent of the city’s 2024-25 annual budget.
A nine-member Citizens’ Sales Tax Oversight Committee meets annually to review the use of sales tax funds.
“This is a case of promises made; promises
kept. The city has made investments in our community with a focus on our streets, and many roads have seen improvement. But we have more work to do,” said Grigger Jones, chair of the Oversight Committee.
Measure F-14 became effective on April 1, 2015, and will sunset on March 31, 2027, unless renewed by the voters with Measure L-24. If voters adopt the Atascadero Local Roads and Vital Services Funding Extension Measure, it will become effective on April 1, 2027, and continue the funding already available to the city.
Since its implementation, Measure F-14 has funded approximately 120 roadway segments equivalent to nearly $23.2 million in neighborhood road repair. These projects have repaired, resurfaced, or rehabilitated over 55 miles of neighborhood roads, or 38 percent of all city-maintained streets. Upgrades include the removal and replacement of asphalt on full roadway sections, improved drainage, and enhanced
roadside slope stability.
Aided by the funds received from Measure F-14, the city’s overall pavement condition index (PCI) has increased by 9 points, from 47 to 56 — a significant increase from the expected 17-point decrease if Measure F-14 had not passed in 2014. If adopted by voters, the Atascadero Local Roads and Vital Services Funding Extension Measure would provide funding to continue improving the City’s streets and address the 26 roadway segment projects that are slated to be addressed should funds remain available. The measure could also fund other City services. Visit the city’s website (atascadero.org/project/measure-f-14-road-projects) to learn more about Measure F-14’s impact on city infrastructure, review the Oversight Committee reports and examine current projects funded by F-14. Additional information on Measure L-24, the Atascadero Local Roads and Vital Services Funding Extension Measure, can also be found on the city’s website.
Pickers working mostly six-hour shifts in morning to avoid sweltering afternoon temperatures
By CHING LEE California Farm
CALIFORNIA — The prolonged heat wave has slowed the supply of California table grapes, with vines shutting down and picking crews working fewer hours just as the state’s main growing region ramps up harvest.
San Joaquin Valley growers, who produce most of the nation’s fresh-market grapes, say the excessive heat has begun to damage some varieties while inhibiting growth of others. Pickers have been working mostly six-hour shifts in the morning to avoid sweltering afternoon temperatures, leaving fruit on the vine, as they can’t pick it all.
“It’s just taking longer to pick it,” said Kern County grower Mark Hall.
Temperatures soared to triple digits just as the region began harvest in early July. Though some of Hall’s early Flame Seedless were fine, he said the extended heat spell is now affecting quality. Overripe fruit that didn’t get picked on time turned mushy and melted. His Sugraone grapes — a greenish-yellow seedless variety — may be a total loss due to heat damage and mildew, which weakens the skin and causes the berries to crack and rot. Autumn King, another light-green variety, shows some sunburn.
With other valley growers in the same boat, Hall said there’s not as much fruit on the market, which has helped prices. In more typical years, prices tend to drop in the middle of summer and rise later in the season as supplies wane.
Mexico has had its own production problems, shortening its shipping season. That means there’s been less imported fruit lingering in domestic markets as California inventories came online, said Jim Beagle, CEO of Shafter-based Grapery, which grows table grapes in Kern and Tulare counties. This has resulted in “much smoother supply-anddemand dynamics” compared to the big price swings and crashes seen last year, he added.
California table grape acreage reached 125,000 in 2023, down from 127,000 acres in 2022, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That’s compared to 610,000 acres of winegrapes in 2023 and 138,000 acres grown for raisins in 2021.
Harvest in the San Joaquin
Valley typically runs through December, with cold-storage grapes available into January.
The Coachella Valley produces some early-season fruit beginning in mid-to late May, with harvest wrapping up as the San Joaquin Valley starts.
California table grape volumes also took a hit last year after a rare tropical storm battered San Joaquin Valley vineyards during peak harvest.
Beagle said his company lost about 25 percent of its crop. The cost of saving the remaining 75 percent was exorbitant, he said, because it was all done by hand. Rain-cracked fruit had to be trimmed individually, he said, and as the berries collapsed, rot spread through the bunches, which had to be cleaned out.
“It was the biggest detrimental financial event to ever hit the California table grape industry,” Beagle said. “We also lost a lot of yield.”
With supplies tight after the storm, prices shot up “a fair amount,” he said, as U.S. retail-
ers “recognized the dire situation for the industry.”
This year, even with impacts from the heat, Beagle said production costs remain manageable, with prices “off to a reasonable start.” Growers have also been blessed with two consecutive years of improved water supplies, he added.
While it’s still early in the season, Beagle said he remains optimistic, noting his crop “looks great” so far. The heat has put stress on some varieties that are just finishing, he said, but most of the crop is still ways off from being harvested, allowing it to better withstand the heat. Also, with drip irrigation, newer heat-tolerant varieties and modern trellis systems that allow leaf canopies to shade and protect the fruit from direct sunlight, he said growers can manage extended heat periods far better today.
“Overall, I don’t see (the heat) having a major impact on the quality or size of the California table grape crop,” Beagle said.
Beagle’s company markets its grapes with names such as Cotton Candy, Gum Drops, Moon Drops and Tear Drops, with the first two referring to the grapes’ candy-like flavors and the other two named for their elongated shapes. Except for Cotton Candy, which mimics the taste of the carnival confection, Beagle said the other grapes are not variety names. Multiple varieties go into grapes marketed as Gum Drops, for example.
“We provide these names as a way for consumers to connect with the experience that they get out of the grapes,” he said.
The company continues to test different varieties from breeding programs that are releasing grapes with flavors such as grape soda and grape lollipop, and some of them will be added to Grapery’s lineup, Beagle said.
“They all have little differences, but they all have these grape candy-like flavors,” he said.
Kern County grower Chris Ramirez, who works for Blanc Vineyards in Delano, said the candy varieties are popular with shoppers and sell well, but they tend to be more labor-intensive and expensive to pick. Because their fruit sizes are smaller compared to more traditional varieties such as Flame Seedless or Autumn King, more bunches are needed to fill a bag.
“People have to work a little bit more and harvest more crop to get a box,” he said.
While retailers want the latest trendy varieties and growers want to supply buyers, Ramirez said farmers are also careful about not overplanting and must consider whether certain vari-
eties work well from a production standpoint. He recalled how the farm planted more acres of Krissy, a red seedless variety, due to demand from “a specific consumer market.”
“Turns out, this variety is very sensitive to heat. When it starts maturing, you’ve got a four-day window to pick before it turns soft,” he said, noting the farm has since regrafted those vines to a different variety.
Of the state’s 10 most popular table-grape varieties in 2023 by acreage, nine are seedless, five are red, four are green or light green, and one is blue-black — Autumn Royal, at No. 7. With 12,163 acres last year, Flame Seedless remains the leading table grape variety in California. The early-season red grape is usually the first major variety harvested each year. The seeded Red Globe ranks No. 5, with 5,281 acres. Once widely grown, the large-sized grape is less common in U.S. markets. Because of its firm flesh and it holds up well, it is now grown mostly for export.
Beagle of Grapery said his company does not market any of its grapes as seedless, pointing out that the so-called seedless varieties are not truly seedless. They contain traces of a seed that’s either underdeveloped, partially aborted or completely aborted. The small specks are soft and often undetectable, but they can start to lignify once the berries mature fully, forming a texture that’s almost seed-like, he said.
“It’s not really a seed,” Beagle said, “but for a purist in terms of seedlessness, it’s not completely seedless either.”
Bureau Federation
Kern County grower Mark Hall stands in a vineyard earlier this month during harvest of Flame Seedless grapes. He says the state’s unrelenting heat wave has begun to damage some varieties. Photo by Sal Ruedas
PASO ROBLES
Jury convicts Paso Robles man for sexual battery against female Uber driver District Attorney Dan Dow announced on July 31 that a San Luis Obispo County jury found Robi Al Nogo, 56, of Paso Robles guilty of one count of misdemeanor sexual battery against his female Uber driver.
The incident occurred in rural Paso Robles on Dec. 19, 2023, while Nogo was riding in the front passenger seat of his Uber. A camera inside the vehicle captured the battery on tape and that footage was played for the jurors during the six-day jury trial.
“Criminal assault is not tolerated in our community,” Dow said. “Our mission is to bring justice and safety to our community by aggressively and fairly prosecuting crime and protecting the rights of crime victims. I am proud of our team members who work hard every day to hold offenders like this one accountable.”
Nogo will be sentenced on Aug. 21 in Department 6 of the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court, the Honorable Michael S. Frye presiding. The defendant is facing a maximum misdemeanor penalty of up to one year in county jail, one year probation, and will be required to register as a sex offender for 10 years.
The case was investigated by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Jerry Lulejian.
PRPD arrests Paso Robles man for assault with a deadly weapon following stabbing incident
On Sunday, Aug. 4, at about 2:07 a.m., the Paso Robles Police Department (PRPD) was notified of a stabbing victim who was taken to a local area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The investigation revealed the altercation occurred in the 3300 block of Vine Street earlier in the morning.
According to a press release from PRPD, during the investigation, 32-yearold Alberto Cruz Nieves of Paso Robles was identified as the suspect. It was learned that Cruz Nieves had fled the scene in a vehicle after the stabbing. Kern County-area California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers located Cruz Nieves in a vehicle and took him into custody without incident. He was later booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail for assault with a deadly weapon.
This investigation is ongoing, and anybody with information is encouraged to call the Paso Robles Police Department at (805) 237-6464. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at (805) 549-STOP.
Ribbon cutting to be held for new inclusive playground at Virginia Peterson Elementary School
The Paso Robles Joint Unified School District will hold a ribbon-cutting event to commemorate the official opening of Virginia Peterson Elementary School’s brand-new fully inclusive playground. Virginia Peterson Elementary families are invited to attend this special event. The event will occur on Thursday, Aug. 8, at 5:30 p.m., at Virginia Peterson Elementary at 2501 Beechwood Drive, Paso Robles.
CHP identifies fatal victims in July 23 Highway 46 head-on collision California Highway Patrol (CHP) have identified the names of the two victims who lost their lives in the head-on collision that occurred on Highway 46 on July 23.
Helmut Stich, 83, and Karen Stich, 72, both of Paso Robles, died in the head-on collision that left a third man in severe condition. According to CHP, the victims were in a 2020 Hyundai. The injured driver of the other vehicle is a 59-year-old man from San Diego and was driving a 2005 Ford F350. According to CHP, the Hyundai was driving in the westbound lanes at about 55 mph behind a tractor trailer. The Hyundai then tried to pass the trailer, and then collided head-on with the Ford F350, which was going at an unknown speed.
The driver and passenger of the Hyundai sustained fatal injuries, and the driver
NEWS BRIEFS
of the Ford F350 was transferred to the Sierra Vista Medical Center.
According to CHP, impairment is not suspected to be involved in the accident.
ATASCADERO
Solo rollover incident in Atascadero leaves one injured
On Monday, Aug. 5, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded to a solo rollover accident in Atascadero.
At almost 1 p.m. on Monday, Jeffery Sunderland, 46, of San Luis Obispo was driving his 2003 GMC Sierra southbound on U.S. 101, just north of Del Rio at 65 mph. According to CHP, Sunderland lost control of his vehicle, allowing it to veer off into the right-hand shoulder, causing his truck to roll over and descend down a ravine.
Sunderland did not sustain any injuries and impairment was not a factor in the collision. According to CHP, they are unaware of what made Sunderland lose control of his vehicle.
Movies playing at ‘Summer Movies in the Park’ this August
The City of Atascadero and platinum sponsors Central Coast Community Energy bring you the Movies in the Park. Movies will show two Saturdays, Aug. 10 and Aug. 24. All the movies are family-friendly and will begin about 15 minutes after sunset at Colony Park Softball Field #2, located at 5599 Traffic Way, next to the Colony Park Community Center in Atascadero. Prior to the movies, beginning at 6 p.m., there will be a variety of fun games and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Chalk drawing, frisbee tossing, mini-soccer games, and sack races. There will also be family wiffle ball games, please reach out to our recreation team to ensure your family’s spot in one of the wiffle ball game matchups.
On Saturday, Aug. 10, we are pleased to present “Wonka” (PG). Based on the extraordinary character at the center of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” and one of the best-selling children’s books of all time, “Wonka” tells the wondrous story of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate-maker became the beloved Willy Wonka we know today.
The second movie, “Kung Fu Panda 4” (PG) will be featured on Saturday, Aug. 24. After three death-defying adventures defeating world-class villains with his unmatched courage and mad martial arts skills, Po, the Dragon Warrior, is called upon by destiny to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace.
Both movies are a must-see for the entire family under the stars on the Colony Park Softball Field. Paradise Shaved Ice will be available at each movie selling concessions. They encourage everyone to bring their blankets and low-back chairs to enjoy an evening of entertainment and fun under the stars. Movies and activities are free to the community.
Cause of fatal collision on Highway 41 under investigation
On Saturday, Aug. 3, at about 8:34 p.m., officers from the Atascadero Police Department, along with personnel from the Atascadero Fire and Emergency Services, responded to a traffic collision on Highway 41 near Old Morro Road.
Acccording to a press release from APD, upon arrival, responders found a single vehicle involved in the collision, with both the vehicle and nearby vegetation on fire. The fire was promptly extinguished by fire department personnel. Tragically, it was determined that the sole occupant of the vehicle had died as a result of the accident. The identification of the driver is pending further investigation.
At this time, it is unknown whether drugs or alcohol contributed to the cause of the collision. Highway 41 was closed to traffic from 8:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. while the collision was investigated.
For any inquiries, please contact the Atascadero Police Department at (805) 461-5051.
‘Saturday in the Park’ Summer Concert Series continues with Stellar The next “Saturday in the Park”
Summer concert will be held on Saturday, Aug. 10, at 6:30 p.m. at the Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand with Stellar.
Hungry Mother & Paradise Shaved Ice will be there selling delicious concert treats. Be sure to mark your calendar for a fantastic concert series lineup: “Saturday in the Park” Summer Concert Series Line-up:
• Aug. 10: Stellar (Classic hits through the decades) Aug. 31: The JD Project (Rock, blues and country)
All concerts are outdoors at the Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand and free to attend. They recommend that you bring a low-back chair and if you would like to purchase any food, bring your wallet.
City’s ECR Project construction heads down El Camino Real, at Entrada Avenue and Traffic Way
The City of Atascadero continues to make progress on the El Camino Real Downtown Safety and Parking Enhancements Project (ECR Project) (atascadero.org/project/el-camino-real-downtown-safety-and-parking-enhancement-project), which will enhance overall safety for all users and increase parking access through downtown. As part of the utility and streetscape improvements, the city’s contractor is beginning work that will result in temporary impacts at the corners of El Camino Real and Entrada Avenue., and El Camino Real and Traffic Way.
The corners of El Camino Real and Entrada Avenue began undergoing extensive improvements on Friday, July 26. In addition to the ongoing utility and streetscape upgrades, the ECR Project is installing bulb outs at these corners to enhance pedestrian safety, increase visibility and better define parking spaces. To reduce the overall impacts to the public and businesses at this location, work at both Entrada Avenue corners will be done concurrently.
To maximize safety, a section of the sidewalk and approximately nine street parking spots on Entrada will be closed for approximately one week to facilitate the underground electrical work. However, Entrada Avenue will remain accessible to vehicles and pedestrians throughout this construction work phase, and the city’s contractor will post temporary signage and create an ADA-compliant pathway to ensure continued access to local businesses.
“As we work to bring our vision of a safer, more vibrant downtown Atascadero to life, we greatly appreciate our community’s patience and cooperation during this construction period. Speeding up this construction phase is critical to limit the impacts on upcoming school traffic and our beloved community events,” said Atascadero Mayor Heather Moreno. “Our downtown shops, restaurants and activities remain open, and I encourage our residents to continue supporting our local businesses and attending our community events!”
The city will be modifying traffic patterns and access points for the 31st Annual Hot El Camino Cruise Nite on Friday, Aug. 16, and the 8th Annual Dancing in the Streets on Saturday, Aug. 17, to enhance community safety. The city will share detailed information about these updates with both event participants and attendees in the coming weeks.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing project updates, traffic advisories and event impacts by following the city on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X, and visiting Atascadero.org/ECRProject. Community members can also sign up for construction news and alerts at Atascadero.org/News-List.
Downtown Summer Sizzle celebrates local farmers for National Farmers Market Week
The City of Atascadero and the North County Farmer’s Markets are hosting the Downtown Summer Sizzle on Wednesday, Aug. 7, from 3 to 5:30 p.m. This farmers market is in celebration of National Farmers Market Week,
Aug. 4-10, highlighting the vital role farmers markets play in our nation’s food system and an opportunity to showcase the value markets bring to their communities.
The Summer Sizzle event includes live music by the Quadratones, Chef Chuck with Cardonagh Kitchen providing free food samples, and a complimentary recipe that includes ingredients that can be found and purchased from the market. In addition, there will be cider and wine tasting by Bristol’s Cider House and Lone Madrone Winery, which will be available for purchase. There will also be cornhole boards to enjoy while you shop the market.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
Woods Humane Society to double all donations up to $10,000 in August
Thanks to a matching donation from The Marianne and Stacy Cocks Fund, a Fund of The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County,Woods Humane Society will double all donations up to $10,000 in August to help two times as many homeless pets.
“Throughout the state and the country, we are experiencing an animal welfare crisis,” says Woods CEO Emily L’Heureux. “There are thousands of dogs and cats in need of shelter and a chance at finding a home with a loving family.”
L’Heureux explains that Woods Humane Society’s main limitation to helping more of these animals is funding.
“That’s why this matching challenge is such an incredible opportunity,” she said. “Doubled donations means we will multiply our fundraising efforts this month and be able to reach more dogs and cats in desperate need.”
With the help of this matching challenge, Woods Humane Society hopes to increase the number of adoptions it performs from 2,852 last year to 3,000 this calendar year.
“Because of the generosity of The Marianne and Stacy Cocks Fund, a Fund of the Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County, our community’s support this month will go even further than it normally would to provide food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for dogs and cats that have nowhere else to turn,” L’Heureux said. “Gifts made during the August Matching Challenge will help us save the lives of hundreds more animals.”
To get your donation doubled, donate online at WoodsHumane.org or in person at Woods Humane Society SLO (875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo) or Woods Humane Society North County (2300 Ramona Road, Atascadero).
Felony evasion, destruction of public property update
The San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Office has released additional details regarding a suspicious vehicle incident that happened on July 31 in Los Osos.
According to its press release, the Sheriff’s Office received a report of a suspicious vehicle in Los Osos. The vehicle was described as a military-style tractor-trailer. When deputies arrived, the driver of the vehicle fled to Montana de Oro State Park, breaking through a gate, and ending up in the area known as Sandspit Beach.
The suspect was eventually arrested and taken to County Jail. He’s been identified as 63-year-old Patrick Kevin VanNess of Los Angeles.
Sheriff’s detectives have confirmed that the vehicle involved in the previous pursuit in Los Osos is a M1070 Heavy Equipment Transport vehicle designed for the U.S. military.
The vehicle was manufactured earlier this year. It was stolen in transit before it was delivered to the military in Southern California. The M1070 Transport vehicle is specifically used to transport the M1 Abrams tank.
VanNess will be charged with theft of the vehicle, which is valued at over $500,000.
On July 31, the vehicle was removed from the beach at Montana de Oro after it became stuck in the sand several times
due to its weight and size.
The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank California State Parks and the California Army National Guard for their assistance recovering the vehicle.
The investigation is continuing, but no further information is available at this time.
SLO County Elections Office reminds voters to use official information sources
The San Luis Obispo County Elections Office wants to remind residents that there are only two official sources of information about their voter registration status: the County Elections Office and the California Secretary of State.
SLO County Clerk-Recorder Elaina Cano stressed the collaboration between these two offices.
“Voter rolls are updated constantly, based on updates from state and local agencies and from voters themselves,” she said. “We are in daily contact with the Secretary of State’s Office, which maintains the official database of voter registration, called VoteCal.”
Cano warns that the proliferation of text-based marketing can lead to blasts from candidates seeking donations as well as texts urging people to register to vote. While they can sometimes seem to be a bit much, those texts are often well-intended. However, if you receive a communication saying that your personal registration status is inactive or is subject to cancellation, be careful.
“Our office will only ever contact you by phone, email, or mail — never by text,” she said. “And the SOS sends texts only when you sign up for BallotTrax, the program that alerts you when your ballot is mailed, received, or counted.”
The Secretary of State’s office has a useful tool for looking up your registration online. And if you prefer to talk with someone, that’s an option as well.
“When in doubt, call our office and have us look up your voter record and confirm things for you,” Cano said.
To check your registration status, visit VoterStatus.sos.ca.gov or call the SLO County Elections Office at (805) 781-5228.
Downtown SLO Farmers Market celebrates National Farmer’s Market Week
The Downtown SLO Thursday Night Farmers Market will commemorate National Farmers Market Week with a special activation at the market on Thursday, Aug. 8, from 6 to 8 p.m.
The Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market team invites the community to visit the intersection of Chorro and Higuera streets during the regularly scheduled market to celebrate the 40-plus farm stands that populate Higuera Street every week.
This event is free, family-friendly, and open to the public. Please leave pets at home.
National Farmers Market Week is an annual celebration (falling this year Aug. 4-10) of the vital role that farmers markets play in our nation’s food system.
Downtown SLO proudly manages a CalFresh/EBT program, providing access to fresh, healthy food to eligible low-income individuals. Additionally, the Market Match grant allows customers to double their buying power when they use their CalFresh/EBT benefits. As the only night market in San Luis Obispo County, the Downtown SLO Farmers Market is a resource for working families and students to shop for fresh fruits and vegetables. In the most recent fiscal year (July 2023 to June 2024), over $59,000 was distributed in EBT benefits at the Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market.
Those interested in redeeming or learning about EBT/CalFresh benefits at the Downtown SLO Farmers Market can visit the orange Info Booth tent every Thursday at the intersection of Chorro and Higuera streets.
The National Farmers’ Market Week Celebration coincides with the normally scheduled Downtown SLO Farmers Market, which runs from 6 to 9 p.m. every Thursday evening on Higuera Street. Visitors can enjoy five blocks of over 100 vendors offering fresh produce, famous barbecue, delicious meals, crafts, baked goods, entertainment, and more.
Diana Stroub (McPartlan, née Worthington) passed away surrounded by loved ones in the early hours of June 8, 2024.
An unmatched exuberance and a captivating smile meant few who crossed Diana’s path would remain a
“What is desired of a man is his kindness.” Proverbs 19:22. Lawrence (Rick) Irwin Shepard, Jr., 79, a man of great kindness, passed away at home on July 14, 2024.
stranger for long. Never one to refrain from life’s joys, her laugh and smile were contagious; she danced often and belted out karaoke tunes with an immediate presence that captivated every soul in the room. She immediately won the affection of everyone she met — from her children’s school friends to elected officeholders and everyone in between. She was a warm and gracious host, an involved and loving mom, an enthusiastic grandma, and an uplifting and unforgettable friend who impacted everyone she met.
This would be legacy enough for one person, but a cunning genius and strong drive lay just beneath Diana’s bubbly persona. Through -
Dyann, his loving wife of thirty-one years, was at his side.
Rick was born on May 1, 1945, in Camp Cooke, California. He lived a full and accomplished life. He grew up in Berkley, California, graduating in 1963 from El Cerrito High School and in 1968 graduated from the University of California at Santa Barbara, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. His professional journey was marked by a notable career beginning in Santa Barbara as an accounting manager for Raytheon from 1968-1973, followed by work in Mountain View, California, and South Korea with Fairchild Semiconductor. By 1975, he added real estate
out her life in all its various stages, Diana proved herself to be a problem solver par excellence. At just 28, Diana was selected to serve in Placer County’s inaugural victim witness program, which began a nearly 30-year span of comforting, educating, and advocating for the most vulnerable victims of abuse.
Her hard work, diligence, and commitment earned her the trust of her colleagues and clients alike. In 2016, she would culminate that career in the position of Director of the SLO District Attorney’s Victim/Witness Assistance Center.
Even in the 10-year break from public safety to raise her two children, Diana did
syndicator to his resume and, in 1980, became an enrolled agent, preparing tax returns for the next 38 years.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Rick was passionate about sports and games. He was an avid San Francisco 49ers and Giants fan and enjoyed fantasy football, golf, bowling, and tennis. Rick excelled in chess (just short of achieving the rank of grandmaster) and was a life master in contract bridge. His strategic and analytical mind also led him to be part of one of the first card-counting teams in Las Vegas, successfully beating the house in blackjack. He was also known for his wide range of music trivia from the 60’s and 70’s period. He
not let up in her efforts to improve the lives of those around her. She jumped in with both feet — working as a security guard at Paso Robles High, scouring the community for contributions and investments into the local schools, and heading up the organizing of countless school events. She quickly climbed her way to PTA President and even launched a new organization that married her two passions: Parents for Safe Schools, where she recruited, trained, and supervised parents to help deter violence on campus.
Diana was a bedrock of her community and will be sorely missed by those whose lives she touched. She leaves
and Dyann loved to take walks, read to each other, and play Scrabble, the only game she had any chance of winning.
He was a man of great kindness and integrity. He had an infectious laugh and a cute sense of humor, often surprising his family with his funny quips. He loved his Lord and family deeply. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Rick leaves behind his wife, Dyann Shepard; children, Laurel Shepard and Steven Shepard; stepsons, Ryan Rogers (Tracy) and Jonathan Rogers (Megan); grandchildren, Sofia Escontrias, Jacob Escontrias, Aidan Shepard, and Andrew Coodey; and brothers, William (Bill)
behind her husband, Rick, sisters Pam Drahos, Roberta Ayers, and Kathy Firestone, her daughter Briana Dotson, her son Bryan McPartlan, and eight grandchildren.
The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 10, at 11:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Paso Robles (1645 Park St).
4th and Spring Streets for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT
[853.7PC], POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL
PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 242591
JULY 31
08:48 — Elijah Daniel Kulinski, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the 1200 Block of Ysabel St. for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], Case no. 242600
08:48 — Elijah Daniel Kulinski, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 1200 Block of Ysabel St. for GRAND THEFT [487(A)PC], Case no. 242597
08:30 — Chelsea Dawn Burch, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the corner of Spring and 12th Streets for BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 242599
AUGUST 1
01:28 — Raymond Gene Glove was on view arrest on the corner of Rambouillet and Player for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B) VC], Case no. 242616 01:18 — Taylor Robert Wise, of Paso Robles for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 242615
13:38 — Christopher Joseph Melendez, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 1000 Block of Paso Robles St. for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], DRIVING WHILE SUSPENDED FOR DUI [14601.2(A)VC], Case no. 242619
AUGUST 2
10:17 — Mark Paxton Dino Furtado, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the 2400 Block of Golden Hill Rd. BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 242627 21:17 — Robert Vernon Dawsey was on view arrest on the 700
Block of 24th St. for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], TRANSPORTATION OR SALE OF METHAMPHETAMINE [11379(A)HS], Case no. 242636 19:34 — Rene Ramonmartinez, of San Miguel was on view arrest on the corner of Spring and 13th Streets for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08
PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 242633
AUGUST 3
01:52 — Luisa Figueira DePaul, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of Paso Robles and 13th Streets for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08
PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 242639
02:21 — Ryan Keith Miller, of Paso Robles for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08
PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 242640
10:43 — Christian Garcia, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 2800 Block of Riverside Ave. for TRESPASS: REFUSING OR FAILING TO LEAVE UPON REQUEST BY OWNER OR PEACE OFFICER [602(O)PC], POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], Case no. 242642
AUGUST 4
00:35 — Bryan Gualaplaza, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 200 Block of Alexa Ct. for INFLICTING CORPORAL INJURY ON SPOUSE/COHABITANT
[273.5(A)PC], Case no. 242638
00:35 — Juan Levaguzman, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 200 Block of Alexa Ct. for INFLICTING CORPORAL INJURY ON SPOUSE/COHABITANT [273.5(A)PC], Case no. 242638
10:52 — Margarito Barajas Lopez, of Templeton for WILLFULLY DISCHARGES A BB DEVICE IN NEGLIGENT MANNER[246.3(B) PC], Case no. 242652
08:42 — Alberto Cruznieves, of Paso Robles for ASSAULT WITH FORCE LIKELY TO PRODUCE BODILY INJURY [245(A)(4)PC], Case no. 242649
10:25 — Tessa Marie Blank, of Atascadero was on view arrest on the 2800 Block of Black Oak Dr., Case no. 242651
07:00 — Alberto Cruznieves, of Paso Robles was on view arrest in Buttonwillow, Kern County, for ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON [245(A)(4)PC], Case no. 242649
ATASCADERO
POLICE DEPARTMENT
JULY 29
13:18 — Mark Scott Taylor Jr. was arrested on the 9100 Block of San Gabriel St. for DRIVING WITH A LICENSE SUSPENDED FOR A DUI [14601.2(A)VC], Case no. 241257
JULY 31
09:52 — Matthew Steven Brown was arrested on the 7300 Block of El Camino Real for POSSESSION OF NITROUS OXIDE (LAUGHING GAS) [381(B)PC], Case no. 241263
AUGUST 1
15:10 — Daniel Thomas Harris was arrested on the 6000 Block of El Camino Real for INFLICTING
LOIS LORAINE GRIEB, 103, of Grass Valley passed away on July 25th 2024.
Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.
MAGDALENA LUCY SALDIVAR, 62, of Arroyo Grande passed away on July 28th 2024.
Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.
DAVID LEE DAVIS, 70, of Arroyo Grande passed away on July 16th 2024.
Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.
BENJAMIN DAVID TROUT,
Shepard (Karen Farhner) and Michael Lee Shepard (Teri). He also leaves behind nephews Alex (Erika), Skyler (Elizabeth), Austin (Kerri Madison), and Kyle Shepard (Brittany), and niece Michelle Shepard (Jonathon Salusky).
Rick was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence I Shepard; stepmother, Reba Shepard; mother, Claris Shepard; and brother, Michael H Shepard.
A celebration of life will be held on August 24, 2024, at 2:30 pm at the Atascadero United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his memory to the CAPSLO-Adult Day Care program or Atascadero United Methodist Church.
CORPORAL INJURY ON SPOUSE/ COHABITANT [273.5(A)PC], Case no. 241269
21:14 — Jesus Martinezandres was arrested on the corner of Curbaril and Marchant Avenues for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], Case no. 241274
21:51 — Ryan Richard Musgrave was arrested on the 6100 Block of Alameda Ave. for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 240706
22:00 — Ryan Richard Musgrave was arrested on the corner of Alameda Ave. and West Mall for POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11377(A)H&S], Case no. 241273
AUGUST 2
14:32 — Loren Wendell Albury was arrested on the corner of Brewer St. and Railway Rd. for EVADE PEACE OFFICER WITH WANTON DISREGARD FOR SAFETY [2800.2(A)], Case no. 241277
AUGUST 3 10:59 — Michael Alan Conley was arrested on the corner of Cascade Rd. And El Camino Real for DISORDERLY CONDUCT/ PUBLIC INTOXICATION [647(F) PC], Case no. 241280
AUGUST 4
15:49 — Olivia Stephanie Aggas was arrested on the 4500 Block of Miramon Ave. for DOMESTIC BATTERY [243(E)(1)PC], Case no. 241286
19:20 — Jennifer Merline Bruce was arrested on the 7600 Block of Cortez Ave. for INFLICTING CORPORAL INJURY ON SPOUSE/ COHABITANT [273.5(A)PC], Case no. 241287
DIANA L. STROUB 1959-2024
LAWRENCE (RICK) IRWIN SHEPARD, JR. 1945-2024
OPINION
Understanding the terms of real estate
If you are a real estate fan, you likely know many of the terms used in the “biz.” More than likely though, your day-today activities don’t involve a property-for-sale sign or real estate contracts and terms. Until, of course, you need to make a real estate move. If you take some time to acquaint yourself with the more common terms, having a conversation with your Realtor will be more understandable. Rest assured however, your professional Realtor will fill you in on the terms you aren’t familiar with or are needed for your specific transaction.
Of the extensive list of Real Estate Terms found on the California Association of Realtors® website, car. org/en/marketing/clients/ realestateterms, here are the more common terms:
• Appraisal/Appraised Value: An opinion of the market value of a home expressed by a real estate appraiser. Assessment: A local tax levied against a property for a specific community purpose, such as a sewer or streetlights.
• Bridge Loan: A second trust for which the borrower’s present home is collateral, allowing the proceeds to be used to close on a new house before the present home is sold. Also known as a “swing loan.”
• Buy-down: When the lender and/or the homebuilder subsidize a mortgage by lowering the interest rate during the first few years of the loan. While the payments are initially low, they will increase when
the subsidy expires.
Closing: The meeting at which a home sale is finalized. The buyer signs the mortgage, pays closing costs and receives title to the home. The seller pays closing costs and receives the net proceeds from the home sale.
Closing Costs: Expenses in addition to the price of the home incurred by buyers and sellers when a home is sold. Common closing costs include escrow fees, title insurance fees, document recording fees and real estate commissions.
Contingency: A condition that must be fulfilled before a contract is binding.
• Counteroffer: An offer in response to an original offer.
• Credit Report: A report documenting the credit history and current status of a borrower’s credit standing.
Credit Risk Score: A credit risk score is a statistical summary of the information contained in a consumer’s
credit report. The most well-known type of credit risk score is the Fair, Isaac or FICO score. This form of credit scoring is a mathematical summary calculation that assigns numerical values to various pieces of information in the credit report. The overall credit risk score is highly relative in the credit underwriting process for a mortgage loan.
• Earnest Money: The deposit given by a buyer to a seller to show that the buyer is serious about purchasing the home. Earnest money usually is refundable to homebuyers in the event a contingency of the sales contract cannot be met.
• Equity: The difference between a home’s value and the mortgage amount owed on the home.
Escrow: The holding of documents and money by a neutral third party prior to closing.
• Homeowner’s Warranty: A
policy that covers certain repairs (e.g. plumbing or heating) of a newly purchased home for a certain period of time.
• Listing: A property placed on the market by a listing agent.
Market Value: The highest price that a buyer would pay and the lowest price a seller would accept on a property. Market value may be different from the price a property could actually be sold for at a given time.
• REALTOR®: A real estate broker or agent who, as a member of a local association of REALTORS®, a state association of REALTORS® and the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (link to onerealtorplace.com), adheres to high standards of professionalism and a strict code of ethics.
• Sweat Equity: Equity created by a purchaser
performing work on a property being purchased.
As mentioned, these terms serve as a foundation to help make your conversations around real estate make a bit more sense. Basics are always good to grasp. The definitions presented are concise but do not capture the amount of expertise required by your real estate team to help your transaction succeed, whether you are buying or selling. Each real estate transaction is different in its own way. With every real estate transaction having its own unique circumstances, select your team carefully, they will be equipped with the right knowledge and expertise to help navigate you through the buying or selling process — they’ve got you!
Jaime Silveira is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at editor@13starsmedia.com
Discussion of August includes dog days and cat nights
August, like July, is named for a person: Augustus Caesar, aka Julius Caesar’s grandnephew Gaius Octavius Thurinus. When he became the first emperor of the Roman Empire, Octavius changed his name to Augustus. The Roman Senate decided that he too should be honored by having a month named after him. The month Sextillus (Sixth) was chosen for Augustus, and the senate passed the following resolution: Whereas the Emperor Augustus Caesar, in the month of Sextillis ... thrice entered the city in triumph ... and in the same month Egypt was brought under the authority of the Roman people, and in the same month an end was put to
the civil wars; and whereas for these reasons the said month is, and has been, most fortunate to this empire, it is hereby decreed by the senate that the said month shall be called Augustus.
Not only did the Senate name a month after Augustus, but they decided that since Julius’s month, July, had 31 days, Augustus’s month needed to have the same number of days. The Julian calendar, which Rome was using then, alternated the length of the months between 30 and 31 days, with the exception of February. August was 30 days long. So, it was lengthened to 31, preventing anyone from claiming that Emperor Augustus was honored with an inferior month.
To accommodate this change two calendrical adjustments were necessary: The extra day needed to inflate the importance of August was taken from February, which originally had 29 days and 30 in a leap year, was now reduced to 28 days and 29 days in a
leap year. Since the months evenly alternated between 30 and 31 days, adding the extra day to August meant that July, August, and September would all have 31 days. So to avoid three long months in a row, the lengths of the last four months were switched around, giving us 30 days in September, April, June, and November. August is, on our Gregorian calendar, the only month without a “real” holiday. That doesn’t mean nothing has ever happened in August. World War I started in August 1914. Iraq invaded Kuwait on Aug. 2, 1990. It is also the month that atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the month Anne Frank was arrested, the month the first income tax was collected, and the month both Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe died.
In August, the Dog Star Sirius is no longer visible in the predawn sky, bringing to an end to the Dog Days of Summer.
Cat Nights begin mid-month. Today, not many people are familiar with Cat Nights. It is pretty old, going back to the days when most people believed in witches. Cat Nights are also tied to pre-Christian harvest rites. Like many ancient festivals, the church adopted the earlier harvest festival and, in many parts of Europe, it is still known as the Feast of Our Lady of the Harvest.
The origin of Cat Nights is thought to spring from a little know Irish legend. The Celtic people created a lot of intriguing folklore. In trying to track down the origin of Cat Nights, my interest was piqued when I read several folk tails about a cat creature known as the Cait Sidhe in Ireland and the Cait Sith in Scotland. Both are pronounced “caught shee” and literally translate as “cat of the mound.” The mound refers to neolithic burial mounds found through out the British Isles. In folk lore they were considered to be fairy mounds and residences. In England the Cait Sidhe, are commonly called fairy cats.
The Cait Sidhe took the form of large black cats, with a spot of white on their chests. For the most part, the Cait Sidhe were seen as fearsome, but they were also capable of bringing blessings.
Irish legend also tells how witches could turn themselves into a cat eight times. They could choose to transform themselves a ninth time, but then they were unable to change back to human form. This legend is the origin of the phrase, “a cat has nine lives.”
Many legends are based on elements of truth. Legends of the Cait Sidhe may be rooted in the Scottish Wildcat known as the Kellas Cat. The Scottish Wildcat looks like a very large house cat and is believed to be the result of a wild cat and domestic cat mating.
But besides the old Celtic folklore, August is traditionally considered a yowly time for cats.
This may be what prompted the belief that witches were on the prowl in Mid-August in the first place.
But what does the old legend
have to do with cat nights? Well, August’s summer nights are getting both longer and cooler. Even as we humans notice the seasonal change, animals are much more sensitive to these changes. Those of uswho share our lives with cats and dogs cannot help but notice how they are a bit more lively now.
Cats, in particular, are active at dusk and dawn. Ones like our orange tabby, Sam, are nocturnal hunters. Cats can see eight times better in the dark than we can. Cats can see some colors, too, like yellows, blues and violets. And their eyes are much more sensitive to movements than our eyes are. Longer nights are coming and the nights belong to them. So enjoy the lengthening nights, and if you’re out on a stroll over the next few evenings, make sure it’s a cat that yousee and not a lurking witch out to bewitch you. John Copeland is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at editor@13starsmedia.com
Time for state, cities to focus on older homeless
The more than 100 housing-related laws passed by legislators and signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom since 2019 have done little or nothing to solve any of the three problems they were supposed to stem: availability, affordability and homelessness.
That was the conclusion of the Superior Court judge who last spring ruled unconstitutional one of the most important of those new laws, the 2021 SB 9, which authorized homeowners in single family zoned (R1) neighborhoods to subdivide their lots and create six
housing units where previously there was just one.
Fewer than 2,000 such subdivisions have occurred since that law took effect, and even if they had become common, they would have done little about the problems they were supposed to alleviate.
That’s because nothing in that law compels any subdividing homeowner or developer to make units affordable – another word for making them financially accessible to low-income folks (four-person households earning less than $114,000 per year, by one city’s standard). Or those spending more than 30 percent of their monthly income on rent or mortgages, by another definition.
Most of the currently homeless are unhoused because they fall into categories like those, so nothing in SB 9 ever figured to help them.
Now comes a study show-
ing more than half the homeless will soon be aged 50 or older, with the proportion of homeless over 65 due to triple between 2017 and 2030 unless something is done soon.
For the state and its cities and counties, this turns out to be one of the most financially disastrous realities they could ever confront.
Current law prevents emergency rooms from turning away anyone who needs help urgently, even if they have no insurance. The state and its local components end up footing those bills, costing billions of dollars. A single urgent care visit by an uninsured adult costs an average of slightly under $300, with adult homeless generally making multiple emergency visits yearly, the number increasing as they age.
This makes the findings of the newest study of the homeless from the UC San Francisco Benioff Homelessness
and Housing Initiative critically important for California, where budget constraints have already reduced average annual spending on homelessness.
As the homeless population ages steadily, in part due to increasing rents and unavailability of low-cost homes in all size classes, and with the median home price in the state’s largest county now more than $980,000 – or more than $100,000 higher than one year ago – this problem can only grow worse.
Said Margot Kushel MD, director of the Benioff program, “The dramatic rise in homelessness among older adults has severe consequences for the health and safety of those who experience it and (for) our society at large.”
She urges quick action to prevent even more homelessness among the aging. This would not only be humane, she said, but also financially wise.
The Benioff report, for example, says “adults experiencing homelessness in their 50s and 60s are similar in health status to people 20 years older in the general population.”
In short, rapidly increasing older homeless will quickly translate into vastly larger public expenses for their medical care. Those expenses figure to continue longer than they would for younger homeless, because older homeless adults typically experience “prolonged episodes of homelessness,” the median length of their remaining unhoused now standing at 25 months, or just over two years.
The report, based in part on 365 interviews with homeless individuals, showed older adults believe “modest” financial help, including housing choice vouchers and small subsidies like one-time payments that can get them into an apartment by fund -
ing security deposits, can help them become permanently housed.
So the Benioff program recommends special attention to prevention efforts targeting at-risk seniors, expanding seniors’ access to health care before they become homeless – even if uninsured – and expanding outreach to homeless seniors well beyond today’s levels.
All these things cost money, but allowing the senior homeless populace to keep expanding will clearly boost legally required spending on medical care even more. It’s a situation dramatically outlined in a slogan from 1990s era TV commercials for automotive oil filters: “You can pay me now (for prevention), or you can pay me later (much more).”
Thomas Elias is an independent opinion columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email him at tdelias@aol.com.
Photos by Christianna Marks
Local students compete in Youth Citizenship Contest
The competition is sponsored by the El Paso de Robles Chapter of NSDAR
By CAMILLE DEVAUL
PASO ROBLES — Earlier this year, sixththrough eighth-grade students throughout North County were invited to participate in the annual Youth Citizenship Contest by the El Paso de Robles Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR).
One winner from each grade at participating schools was chosen for their representation of honor, service, courage, leadership, and patriotism. The winners were presented with a medal and certificate from the El Paso de Robles Chapter of NSDAR. The chapter’s youth committee conducts the American History Essay Contest, the DAR Good Citizens, and the DAR Youth Citizenship Contest. All contests are open to students in public, private, parochial schools and registered home-study programs.
Below are the 2024 Youth Citizenship Contest winners presented by the El Paso de Robles Chapter of NSDAR:
Atascadero Middle School
August Boyd (sixth grade); son of Kate and Jarrett Boyd
Nathan Tomasini (seventh grade); son of Sandy and Ben Tomasini
• Laney Arnold (eighth grade); daughter of Jessica and Joey Arnold
Cappy Culver Elementary School
January Hansen (sixth grade); daughter of Summer Miller
Aubree Neto (seventh grade); daughter of
Fundraiser will be held in conjunction with current wearable art exhibit, ‘Artsy Adornments’
PASO ROBLES — Studios on the Park is inviting the public to an “End of Summer Soiree,” an event designed to support their essential arts programs. The event will be held on Thursday, Aug. 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Studios on the Park, located at 1130 Pine St.
The fundraiser will be held in conjunction with the studios’ current wearable art exhibit, “Artsy Adornments,” which showcases upcycled clothing and handcrafted fine jewelry. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy art and fashion while contributing to a meaningful cause.
The evening will feature appetizers, drinks, and live music by Katie Chappell. Plus, attendees will be entered into a raffle to win an original creation by local jewelry artist Debra Jurey. Event-goers will also be given the opportunity to hand stencil or paint their own unique garment, under the guidance of artist Dan Parks.
“We are excited to bring our community together for a night of art, fun, and fashion,” said Anne Laddon, founder of Studios on the Park. “The End of Summer Soiree is not just a celebration of art, but also an opportunity to support the art programs that make a difference in our
Experience “Dream Like Taylor” this Friday, Aug. 9, at 7:30 p.m.
TEMPLETON — The Temple -
ton Performing Arts Center is hosting a tribute to Taylor Swift with ‘Dream Like Taylor,’ featuring Cassie B. Join us this Friday, Aug. 9, at 7:30 p.m. for a family-friendly show that promises an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment for all ages.
Cassie B, an accomplished singer, songwriter, and hip-hop dancer, brings her popular show “Dream Like Taylor” to life with her unique vocal flair and musical
Aimee and Joey Neto Sr.
Lillian Larsen Elementary School
Leonel Rios-Jimenez (seventh grade); son of Miriam Jimenez
Eva Garcia-Rafael (eighth grade); daughter of Antonieta Rafael
Paso Robles Home School
• Lauren Welch (seventh grade); daughter of Catherine and Justin Welch
• Yuseli Benitez (eighth grade); daughter of Janath Benitez
Pleasant Valley School
Italy Cruz Cavero (sixth grade); daughter of
community. Your participation helps us continue to provide art education, exhibitions, and classes that benefit people of all ages.”
Tickets for the event are available now and can be purchased in-person at Studios on the Park or on their website. For more information, please visit studiosonthepark.org or contact us at (805) 238-9800.
Studios on the Park (Studios) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a creative, educational, and transformational experience to enhance understanding and appreciation of the visual arts. Studios on the Park realizes its commitment by making the creative process available to the public.
style. Created in March 2024 at UC San Diego, the show celebrates Taylor Swift’s top hits, including fan favorites like “Shake It Off,” “Blank Space,” “Love Story,” and many more. This live band journey through the enchanted eras of Taylor Swift features her distinct style and catalog of music.
Rosalinda Cavero Lopez and Galdino Cruz Bautista
Shandon Elementary School
Ava Verschoor (sixth grade); daughter of Marissa and Jacob Verschoor
Templeton Home School
Rene Carson Miller (eighth grade); daughter of Tammra and Matthew Lynge
Templeton Middle School
• Raymond Dubost (eighth grade); son of Sarah and Ted Dubost
Trinity Lutheran Church School
Reagan Railsback (sixth grade); daughter of Jane
and Mark Railsback
• Abigail Thomas (seventh grade); daughter of Janet and Eric Thomas
Michael Simas (eighth grade); son of Michaele and Steve Simas
About NSDAR
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is a nonprofit, nonpolitical women’s service organization with more than 1 million members who have joined the organization since its founding in 1890. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible for membership. To learn more about the work of today’s DAR, visit DAR.org.
Atascadero Chamber wins top national communication award
Chamber recognized by ACCE for excellence in digital communication and community engagement
ATASCADERO — The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce has been honored with a first-place communication award for its website. This recognition comes from the National Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), highlighting the Chamber’s commitment to excellence in digital communication and community engagement.
The ACCE awards ceremony held in Dallas, Texas, in July, represented over 200 Chambers across the United States. The event brought together Chamber professionals and industry leaders to celebrate excellence and innovation in the Chamber industry. The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce emerged as a standout among its peers, securing this award in the small chamber category.
“Receiving this prestigious award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Chamber staff,” said Josh Cross, president and CEO of the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. “The staff puts in countless hours to truly make a difference, and this award is
Cassie B is the mastermind behind “Dream Like Taylor” and the official singer for the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. In this role, she performs the national anthem and entertains fans with the official house band during pre-show and in-game events. Cassie B’s journey with the Padres began when she was discovered performing near Petco Park and has since become a beloved figure in San Diego’s music scene. Cassie B’s passion for performing ignited in elementary school, continued through middle and high school, and blossomed into a professional career that includes singing, dancing, and hosting live shows at SeaWorld. It was there she met her husband, Ryan, and together they embarked on their musical journey, culminating in the creation of their Taylor
a testament to their dedication. This award is not just a win for the Chamber, but for everyone in Atascadero who strives to make the community a better place for everyone. Be sure to check out the website today.”
For more information about the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce, visit atascaderochamber.org.
Swift tribute show.
Cassie B also writes and streams her own original music, blending pop influences with country flair, and is set to release her single EP album “Good Time Tonight.” Her live performances are renowned for their energy and audience interaction, creating memorable experiences for all attendees.
There is a chance to win four free tickets to see “Dream Like Taylor.” To enter, simply promote the show on your social media and tag the Templeton Performing Arts Center. The winner will be announced on Thursday, Aug. 8. The show is Friday, Aug. 9. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. and doors open at 7 p.m. at the Templeton Performing Arts Center. Tickets are available online and at the door. For more information
and to purchase tickets, visit templetonperformingartscenter.com
About the Templeton Performing Arts Center:
Completed in 2003, the Templeton Performing Arts Center (PAC) exemplifies Templeton’s values of hard work, generosity, and community spirit. As the cultural heart of North County, the Templeton PAC is a hub for performing arts, education, and entertainment. It features an orchestra pit, dressing rooms, advanced lighting, and sound systems, and a seating capacity of 330, ensuring unobstructed views. It serves as a venue for music, dance, theater, assemblies, lectures, and forums. As the largest indoor performance space in northern San Luis Obispo County, it fosters creativity and talent, reflecting the community’s dreams and efforts.
(From left) Jim Rooney, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce president and CEO; Josh Cross, Atascadero Chamber of Commerce president and CEO; and Sheree Anne Kelly, ACCE president & CEO ACCE are shown at the ACCE awards ceremony held in Dallas, Texas. Photo provided by Atascadero Chamber
Pieces from the Studios on the Park’s “Artsy Adornments” will be shown at the studios’ “End of Summer Soiree”
(From left) Laney Arnold, Nathan Tomasini, and August Boyd are the winners in the Paso Robles DAR Youth Citizenship Contest from Atascadero Middle School. Photo provided by Paso Robles Chapter of DAR
(From left) Reagan Railsback, Abigail Thomas, and Michael Simas from Trinity Lutheran Church School show their awards in the Paso Robles DAR Youth Citizenship Contest. Photo provided by Paso Robles Chapter of DAR
Rene Carson Miller was the eighth-grade winner from Templeton Home School in the Paso Robles DAR Youth Citizenship Contest. Photo provided by Paso Robles Chapter of DAR
Eat at Guest House Grill next Wednesday and support local food bank as ALF celebrates 40 years
Every Wednesday in August, North County Restaurant Group restaurant will donate 10 percent of sales
ATASCADERO — Every Wednesday in August, the North County Restaurant Group will donate 10 percent of sales from one of their restaurants to ALF Food Pantry. On
Wednesday, Aug. 14, come to Guest House Grill in Atascadero for lunch, dinner, and drinks, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and support your local food bank.
Save these dates for future events.
• Wednesday, Aug. 21, at Jack’s Grill in Templeton • Wednesday. Aug. 28, at Cielo, Atascadero
ALF Food Pantry is celebrating 40 years of serving those who are food insecure in North County. The nonprofit distributed 500,000 pounds of food last year with no
CONTACT INFO
P.O. Box 3120, Atascadero, CA 93423 (805)712-6356 atascaderogreyhound foundation.org
paid employees. Community support is the backbone of the organization.
ALF Food Pantry has been named Community Organization of the Year by the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. Formerly known as Atascadero Loaves and Fishes, the nonprofit has been providing groceries free of charge for more than 30 years. Their humble beginnings took shape in the basement of a local church, and is now located at 5411 El Camino Real in Atascadero.
LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero
AWARENESS - PREVENTION - INTERVENTION - EDUCATION
About: The Atascadero Greyhound Foundation has been serving the Atascadero community for more than 20 years, gradually adding more events that serve its mission. We have grown, and continue to give because of the generous donors, sponsors and participants of our events. Our events are a benefit to the community in healthy activity — either athletically, musically, educationally, or in the fight against addiction.
Donations: Our support comes from generous donors and sponsors. To make a difference, visit: lighthouseatascadero.org
ALF Food Pantry
OUR MISSION: ALF Food Pantry is dedicated to providing nutritious groceries to the food-insecure residents of the communities we serve. ALF Food Pantry (formerly known as Atascadero Loaves and Fishes) is celebrating 40 years of service to our community, providing groceries to families and individuals. The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce honored ALF as the 2024 Community Organization of the Year. With an all-volunteer workforce, we distributed nearly 600,000 pounds of food in 2023, the equivalent of 360,000 meals. We provide quality fresh and shelf-stable ingredients to food-insecure people in Atascadero, Templeton, Santa Margarita, Creston, and California Valley. Clients have increased by 20% each year since 2020 and food costs are dramatically higher.
Donations: We need your help to allow us to continue our vital work. Donate today using our QR code or mail a check to ALF Food Pantry, 5411 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422.
United Way of San Luis Obispo County
EDUCATION. INCOME. COMMUNITY.
CONTACT INFO (805) 541-1234 unitedwayslo.org
CONTACT INFO Offices in Atascadero, Paso Robles & SLO treeoflifepsc.com (805) 543-6000
CONTACT INFO
1000 Spring Street Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3870 prcity.com
CONTACT INFO Operation Surf 80 San Francisco St. Avila Beach, CA (805) 544-7873 info@operationsurf.org operationsurf.org
United Way of San Luis Obispo County’s programs deliver the education and resources that can help families succeed, in the present and for the next generation. Our work is centered on three impact areas that give people the best start for a successful life: Early Childhood Education, Family Financial Stability and Community Strengthening. Please join us! Together we can do our part to make a stronger community in SLO County that benefits us all.
DONATE: Invest in lasting change through a charitable donation at unitedwayslo.org/donate
VOLUNTEER: Find a volunteer opportunity that fits you at unitedwayslo.org/volunteer
TREE OF LIFE Pregnancy Care Center
WOMEN. HEALTH. LIFE
Tree of Life has been helping women and families in our community for over 39 years. All services are FREE and confidential. Women facing pregnancy decisions can find compassion, hope, positive options, and practical help from our friendly and knowledgeable staff. Our goal is to provide resources to assist a woman in choosing life for her baby and then to parent or place for adoption. We also offer compassionate help for women struggling with the mental and emotional effects of a previous abortion. Donations: We’re grateful that all of our support comes from generous individuals here in our community.
Friends of the Paso Robles Library
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Support the Library through a Friends of the Library membership, starting as low as $10/year. The Friends of the Library appreciates donations, which are either added to the Library’s collection or used to generate considerable funds toward the purchase of new books, library materials, programs, services, etc. Support the Library in a 100% volunteer-run retail environment. We are seeking volunteers to assist with Gift Shop sales, book donation sorting, and to provide book sale support.
Due to limited storage space and staff, we are only able to accept two boxes or two bags of materials per household per day.
Cash donations always welcome!
BOARD MEETINGS: Call (805) 237-3870 for information
Operation
MISSION
Surf
Our mission is to channel the healing powers of the ocean to restore hope, renew purpose, and revitalize community. Operation Surf’s curriculum-based programs aim to inspire injured military and veterans to seek wellness in all aspects of their lives while providing the necessary resources, tools, and peer-to-peer support to continue this mindset indefinitely. By staying true to our core values of care, inclusion, commitment, integrity, and communication, we change participants’ lives – one wave at a time. Local Veteran Opportunities: OS3- Three Month Surf Program Application is Open! Apply via the website www.operationsurf.org OS3 is a three-month, locally-focused program that provides veterans with an opportunity to bond through surfing, keep each other motivated, and move forward in life with a new perspective. Focused on four key pillars of mentorship, unity, family, and the peace of surfing, Operation Surf inspires to make lasting change in the lives of our community.
Redwings Horse Sanctuary
For information about making donations, adoptions, etc, visit redwingshorsesanctuary.com. For upcoming events, visit facebook.com/pg/redwingshorses/events
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
CONTACT INFO 6875 Union Road Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3751 redwingshorse sanctuary.org
Redwings is always looking for volunteers to help us provide the highest standard of care for our horses and burros. You do not need to have any prior horse experience to volunteer at Redwings. If you would like to work with our horses, the first step is to take a Volunteer Training Class. This class covers sanctuary rules, basic safe horsemanship skills, and an introduction to some of the horses that you will be working with. After completion of the class you are welcome to come volunteer and help with the horses any time during our volunteer hours. Volunteer hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 8am to 3:30pm, and we are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Note: We do not allow volunteers to ride the horses at Redwings. There are other ways to get involved and volunteer at Redwings too. We have opportunities to help in our rose and memorial garden, volunteering in the office, helping with events and fundraising, and more. Please submit the form below to schedule a volunteer training or contact our office: info@redwingshorsesanctuary.org or (805) 237-3751.
Atascadero Elks Lodge
CONTACT INFO 1516 El Camino Real, Atascadero, Ca 93422 805-466-3557 www.elks2733.org
programs and many, many community activities. Our mission as Elks is to inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize our belief in God; to promote the welfare of our community; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; and
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PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO. Petition of MARIA XOCHIL
GONZALES for change of name, case no. 24CVP-0191 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1.
Petitioner: MARIA XOCHIL GONZALES filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follow: a. Present name: MARIA XOCHIL GONZALES to Proposed name: XOCHITL MARIA GONZALEZ MUÑOZ 2. 2.
The court orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before the court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for the change of name should not be granted. NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: 8/14/2024 Time: 9:30am Dept: P2 b. The address of the court is 901 PARK STREET, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446 c. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county: PASO ROBLES PRESS Date: 7/1/2024 /s/ Judge HON. GINGER E. GARRETT, Judge of the Superior Court. PUB: 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8/2024 LEGAL CM 393
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20241387 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: HONEYMOON SUGAR AND SKIN, 806 9TH STREET SUITE 2C, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL: KAZIA ROSE OTTA, 1481 LAURA COURT, TEMPLETON, CA 93465
If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)
/S/ KAZIA ROSE OTTA This statement was filed
with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 06/26/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 07/01/2023 CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MKATZ, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 06/26/2029 PUB: 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8/2024 LEGAL CM 394
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20241443 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: ALDER CREEK APARTMENTS, 712 GARDENIA CIRCLE, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A LIMITED PARTNERSHIP: NEW HERITAGE FAMILY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, 712 GARDENIA CIRCLE, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, TREVOR JOSEPH COLLINS, 712 GARDENIA CIRCLE, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization OR I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ TREVOR JOSEPH COLLINS, PARTNER
This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 07/03/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 10/03/2012 CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By ATRUJILLO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 07/03/2029 PUB: 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8/2024 LEGAL CM 395
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20241249 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS
AS: DW FARMS, 2130 PRESIDIO WAY, SAN MIGUEL, CA 93451, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A MARRIED
COUPLE: DESSIE LEEANN UNDERWOOD, 2130 PRESIDIO WAY, SAN MIGUEL, CA 93451, WENDY WILLIS, 2130 PRESIDIO WAY, SAN MIGUEL, CA 93451
If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization
I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)
/S/ DESSIE LEE ANN UNDERWOOD This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 06/10/2024
TRANSACTING BUSINESS
DATE: 05/01/2024
CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.
ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By OPALMA, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 06/10/2029
PUB: 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8/2024 LEGAL CM 396
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20241455 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: MORRO BAY LANDING, 1215 EMBARCADERO, SUITE “A”, MORRO BAY, CA 93442, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A CORPORATION: PATRIOT SPORTFISHING, INC., 1215 EMBARCADERO, SUITE “A”, MORRO BAY, CA 93442
If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization
CA I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.)
/S/ PATRIOT SPORTFISHING, INC., WADE MARTIN GAVIN, PRESIDENT
This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 07/08/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS
DATE: 12/18/2012
CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.
ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By ATRUJILLO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 07/08/2029 PUB: 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8/2024 LEGAL CM 397
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20241469 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: PATRIOT SPORTFISHING, 3975 AVILA BEACH DR, AVILA BEACH, CA 93424, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A CORPORATION: PATRIOT SPORT-
FISHING, INC., 3975 AVILA BEACH DR, AVILA BEACH, CA 93424 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization CA I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ PATRIOT SPORTFISHING, INC., WADE M GAVIN, PRESIDENT This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 07/09/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS
DATE: 12/18/2012
CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MSTILETTO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 07/09/2029 PUB: 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8/2024 LEGAL CM 398
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20241473 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: FINGERSCAPE, 66 LAGUNA WAY, PASO ROBLES, CALIFORNIA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL: TERRY SILVERIA, 66 LAGUNA WAY, PASO ROBLES, CALIFORNIA 93446 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ TERRY SILVERIA This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 07/10/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: NOT APPLICABLE
CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MMALTBY, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 07/10/2029
PUB: 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8/2024 LEGAL CM 399
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20241471 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: MEISSNER K9, 6430 PORTOLA RD, ATASCADERO, CA 93422, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CON-
DUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL: TOLLI C MEISSNER, 6430 PORTOLA RD, ATASCADERO, CA 93422 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ TOLLI C MEISSNER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 07/10/2024
TRANSACTING BUSINESS
DATE: NOT APPLICABLE
CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By OPALMA, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 07/10/2029
PUB: 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8/2024 LEGAL CM 400
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20241227 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: WIMMER’S AUTOMOTIVE & HYBRID REPAIR & SMOG, JIM’S AUTOMOTIVE & HYBRID, JIM’S HARBOR HOUSE HYBRIDS, JIM’S SIMPLE SERVICE, 899 PINEY WAY, MORRO BAY, CA 93442, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A CORPORATION: C & R WIMMER, INC, 899 PINEY WAY, MORRO BAY, CA 93442 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization CA I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ C & R WIMMER, INC., RICHARD WIMMER, PRESIDENT This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 06/07/2024 TRANSACTING BUSINESS
DATE: 06/04/2024
Good
WORSHIP DIRECTORY
ATASCADERO GOSPEL CHAPEL
8205 Curbaril Ave. (corner of Curbaril & Atascadero Ave.): Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. Ted Mort, Pastor. (805) 466-0175. atascaderogospelchapel.org
Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living A New Thought Spiritual Community. Living the Consciously Awakened Life. Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue Sunday 10:00am at the Pavilion 9315 Pismo Way, Atascadero (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.org
St. William’s Catholic Church 6410 Santa Lucia Road, Atascadero, CA (805) 466-0849 www. stwilliams.org Weekday Masses : 10:30 AM Saturday Vigil Mass: 4:30 PM Sunday Masses: 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM Spanish
FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH
9925 Morro Road, Atascadero; "The Church on the Hill"; An independent church committed to the teaching of God's Word.; Praise and Prayer–10 a.m.; Morning Worship–11 a.m.; Evening Worship–6 p.m.; Wednesday Prayer–6:30 p.m.; Nursery care and children's classes provided.; Pastor Jorge Guerrero; (805) 461-9197.
HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH ELCA
A place of hope! Join us for in-person worship on Sundays at 9 A.M. Services are also streamed on our YouTube channel, Hope Lutheran Church Atascadero. We offer Sunday School for all ages after worship. Learn more at ourhopelutheran.net. 8005 San Gabriel Road, Atascadero. 805.461.0430. office@ourhopelutheran.org.
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER-LCMS
4500 El Camino Real, Atascadero; 466-9350; Morning Bible class at 9 a.m. Sunday; Coffee and Sunday Worship with Holy Communion at 10 a.m. Sunday; Thursday morning Bible class 10 a.m. followed by refreshments and fellowship; Developmentally disabled Bible class 1st and 3rd Saturday mornings; redeemeratascadero.org; redeemeratascadero@gmail.com; Pastor Wayne Riddering.
PLYMOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UCC
We honor ancient scriptures, responding to God’s contemporary call to be just and kind.; Join us for Worship Sunday, 10 a.m.; Church School Sunday, 10:15 a.m.; Coffee Fellowship 11 a.m.; Men’s Bible Study, Wednesday, 8 a.m.; Women’s Bible Study, Friday, 10 a.m.; Youth Group; 1301 Oak St., Paso Robles; (805) 238-3321.
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH
940 Creston Road, Paso Robles; has Sunday worship services at 9:30 a.m; For more information, call the church at (805) 238-3702. Ext. 206.
ATASCADERO FOURSQUARE CHURCH–FATHER’S HOUSE
2100 Ramona Road. Sunday service at 10am. Will & Lori Barrow, Pastors; (805) 466-3191; fathershouseafc.com
ABIDE CALVARY ATASCADERO
4500 El Camino Ave (Downstairs, Rear Parking Lot) // info@ abideatascadero.org. Sunday Service at 9am, Children’s Ministry provided for ages 2yrs–6th grade. Pastors Chris Vanoli & Ben Eisenman // Love God, Love Others // Abiding closely with Jesus and teaching others to do the same.
THE REVIVAL CENTER
A division of Alpha Beth Ministries; 3850 Ramada Drive (corner of Ramada and Cow Meadow), Paso Robles; 805-434-5170; Pastor Gabe Abdelaziz; a charismatic non-denominational fellowship; Reaching People, Building Homes; Sundays 10am, Wednesday 7pm; alphabeth@tcsn.net, www.alphabeth.org; Instagram @the_ revival_center
COMMUNITY CHURCH OF ATASCADERO, UCC
5850 Rosario Ave. Service 10 a.m. (in person and on Zoom) Pastor Heather Branton (805) 466-9108 atascaderoucc.org
ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH
820 Creston Road., Paso Robles; (805) 238-2218- Parish Office open Mon-Fri 1 p.m.-5 p.m.; website: www.saintrosechurch.org; Mass times; Daily Mass- 8:30 a.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.; Tues. 7 p.m. Saturday Vigil Mass 5 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass at 1 p.m. & 6 p.m. Father Rodolfo Contreras.
SANTA MARGARITA DE CORTONA CATHOLIC CHURCH
22515 “H” St, Santa Margarita (805)438-5383 Parish Office
hours:Wed-Thur 9am-12pm Mass Times: Saturday Vigil Mass:5pm Sunday:10am Wed-Fri 10am Adoration Wed following Mass Confessions: Saturday 4pm and Sunday 9am
RESURRECTION ANGLICAN CHURCH
We are a “Mere Christian” congregation in the Anglican tradition. We are rooted in Christ and the authority of the Bible. We respect apostolic tradition and use The Book of Common Prayer. Whether you know anything about Christianity or not, visit us at 9:30 any Sunday morning at 9005 Santa Lucia Road. All are welcome. Text Pastor Cynthia with any questions at (828) 406-7253.
Be included in the Atascadero News & Paso Robles Press Worship Directory for an entire year at $175
COLUMNIST
We now have a nice little outdoor stage on the Printery grounds, and it’s going to be used this Friday, Aug. 9, for the 3rd Annual “North County Has Talent” show. According to our organizers, this year’s program promises to be bigger and better, showcasing a variety of talented North County residents. There will be two categories, youth and adults, with prizes for first and second place in each category.
The chair of the event, Brenda May, has a full program planned, including an opening number by the first place winner of last year’s show. The door (gate) will open at 5:30 p.m. to allow attendees to purchase food from Trattoria di LUCA, whose menu includes smash burgers and Italian barbecue. Beer and wine will be available for purchase.
Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door. All proceeds benefit the Atascadero Printery Foundation in its efforts to restore the historic Printery building located at 6351 Olmeda Ave.,
lee pitts COLUMNIST
(1) Federal Tax: If your income was less than $3.75 in 2024 remit 15 percent. If it was greater than $3.75 but less than $39.99 multiply by 50 percent. If you made more than $40 send it.
(2) State Income Tax: For those of you living in most states cough up 12 percent of your “gross” pay to the state house. There is no state tax for residents of Texas and Wyoming which might explain why everyone is moving there.
(3) Sales Tax: In some states you will not be taxed on a loaf of bread. That is so that you will have sufficient energy to work and pay taxes. Other states will go ahead and charge a sales tax ... for the loaf in their state capital. He already gets more bread than
Legend has it that Ponce de Leon discovered Florida in 1513 while seeking the fountain of youth. Eight years later, instead of finding the key to longevity, he died at the hands of the Calusa Indians. Ironically, a search for extended life actually led to an early death. Our society is in constant pursuit to reclaim youthfulness and slow the process of aging. Although it is admirable to implement nutritional and lifestyle changes, the United States economy spent $114.5 billion on beauty products and cosmetic surgery last year alone.
Do you remember a few weeks
Atacadero. There will be information about the restoration project available at the event. There will also be information regarding the Memorial Bricks Campaign and how you can take part in it. Note the bricks around the base of the stage, purchased by supporters of the Printery.
Don’t forget the Summer Movies in the Park, showing at Colony Park, 5599 Traffic Way, Atascadero, presented by the City of Atascadero. Show time is approximately 8:15 p.m. The August features are “Wonka,” rated PG, on Saturday, Aug. 10 and “Kung Fu Panda 4,” also PG, on Saturday, Aug. 24. Join in family fun and games before the movie. Food will be available for purchase. The event is free to attend. Blankets and low-back chairs are advised.
The recipe this week is for those of you who are “cake bakers.”
Lemon Cake with Raspberry Curd
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups sugar
1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
Thrown for a loophole Talent and cake
the bankrupt farmer who grew the wheat.
(4) Luxury Tax: This is to prevent you from doing anything that would detract from your ability to earn money to forward to the government. If you smoke ... add 5 percent. If you drink alcohol ... add 10 percent. And if you have sex add 15 percent in bed tax.
(5) Gas Tax: If you drive over 45 mph add 10 percent. If you drive under 45 mph you can keep your federal tax money that was yours to begin with. Highway patrolmen and cars marked “For Official Government Use Only” are exempt from the tax and the speed limit. Gas Tax shall not be confused with the tax on your methane belching cows. You will find those charges listed under the all-new schedule C in the carbon credit section of your new climate-friendly and sustainable tax form.
(6) Corporate Tax: Television Church Conglomerates and nonprofit foundations shall pay zero taxes. Bona -
• Raspberry Curd (recipe follows)
Lemon Buttercream
Garnish: lemon slices, fresh raspberries
Raspberry Curd
Ingredients:
• 3 cups frozen raspberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
3 egg yolks
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/8 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons unsalted
butter
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 3 (8-inch) square cake pans with baking spray with flour. Line bottom of pans with parchment paper. In large bowl, beat butter, sugar, and lemon zest and juice with a mixer at medium speed until fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes, stopping to scrape sides of bowl. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla.
In medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture, beating just until combined, after each addition. Divide batter among pans. Bake until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean, 20 to 25
fide exempt businesses shall be saved from the wrath of an IRS auditor if they tithe a third of what they make to the IRS. The IRS loves a cheerful giver.
(7) Self Employment Tax:
Add 7 percent unless you are on food stamps or in Chapter 11.
(8) Property Tax: You shall be assessed 1 percent of the worth of your home in order that the Federal Government can maintain country club prisons to house federal judges, former dirty Congressmen, ex-United States Presidents and their sons. They need quiet and peaceful surroundings in which to write their memoirs they’ve already sold for $20 million ... tax free, of course.
(9) Schedule C. Miscellaneous permits and licenses for keeping dogs, building permits, business licenses, and climate change penalties for breathing.
(10) Deductions: You may deduct the interest on your second home. This primarily applies to Congressmen
Longevity
ago I talked about life hacks?
“Today I am explaining His laws and teachings. And if you always obey them, you and your descendants will live long and be successful in the land the Lord is giving you.” Deuteronomy 4:40 CEV
This scripture shares one key to longevity: keeping God’s commandments and abiding in His teachings. The Bible also gives five other ways to securing a long life. Let me share them with you:
1. As you should already know, because I mentioned it last time, Exodus 20:12 says honoring your father and mother so your days may be long. It doesn’t stipulate whether they have to still be on earth with us. Whether they deserve it or not, show respect for their role in your life, even at the bare minimum because they gave you life.
2. Proverbs 3:16 tells us to
minutes. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes. Remove from pans, and cool on wire racks. Spread Raspberry curd between layers. Spread Lemon Buttercream on top and sides of cake. Garnish with lemon slices and raspberries. Raspberry Curd Directions: In medium saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar and lemon zest and juice over medium heat. Bring to boil; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes. Transfer mixture to container of a blender; process until smooth. Strain through fine-mesh sieve; discard solids. Return mixture to saucepan, and increase heat to medium. In medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt. Add 1/4 cup hot raspberry mixture to eggs, whisking constantly. Add egg mixture to remaining hot raspberry mixture. Cook over medium-high heat, whisking constantly, until thickened, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat, and whisk in butter, 1 tablespoon at a time. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using with cake. Enjoy this refreshing cake. Cheers!
Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at bbutz1@outlook.com
who are the only people rich enough to have two homes. Deductions for business meals shall be limited to 80 percent of their actual cost. Politicians getting fat at the public trough are exempt. To compute your tax liability add lines 1 through 9 and subtract line 10 and divide by the square root of line 4. If your tax liability is greater than 100 percent ... go directly to jail. Do not pass go. If your tax liability is less than 100 percent multiply the remainder by 50 percent and remit as Windfall Profits Tax (11).
Being deceased does not exclude you from filing. If deceased, remit whatever is left over as Estate Tax (12). Send this form along with your money in a self-stamped envelope to the IRS. That is unless you are a Congressman. Then you can mail it for free. Lee Pitts is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at leepitts@ leepittsbooks.com.
seek wisdom for length of days is in wisdom’s right hand. This is a pretty practical key. Wisdom is different than knowledge. Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is actually a fruit. Wisdom is knowing not to put tomato in a fruit salad.
3. Psalm 91:16 says when we set our love upon God and we know His name He promises to satisfy us with long life.
4. Proverbs 22:4 tells us that the reward of humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, honor, and life. Also Proverbs 10:27 tells us to fear the Lord for the fear of the Lord prolongs days, but the years of the wicked will be shortened. Don’t get discouraged when it seems like the evil are prospering; they will get what’s coming to them.
5. And finally, Deuteronomy 11:21 tells us that when we rehearse and display God’s
Word in our home our days and the days of our children will be multiplied as long as there are the heavens above the earth.
But let’s not forget that the most excellent promise is immortality, which we can receive when we set our faith on the Lord Jesus Christ. John 3:36 says he who believes in Jesus has everlasting life. Romans 10:9 tells us that if we confess with our mouth Jesus as Lord and believe in our heart that God raised Him from the dead, we will be saved. It’s that simple. You don’t have to add anything weird to it. And then after that we can find out what God’s will is for our lives, live out our full potential, and live under the blessings of God as we seek to obey His commands.
Sarah-Kate Duran is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at alphabeth@tcsn.net
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
AUGUST EVENTS
EVERY MONDAYFRIDAY UNTIL FALL
LAVENDER U-PICK
Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel 10 am-4 pm
For $15 per person (children under 12 are free with adult) you can visit the farm and pick enough lavender to make one bouquet. After harvesting your lavender, find a cozy spot in one of our picnic areas to relax and unwind or visit the farm animals or farm store. For more information, visit hamblyfarms. com/visit-the-farm/#u-pick.
AUGUST 8, 15, & 22
CONCERTS IN THE PARK 6-8pm
Enjoy live music in the Downtown Paso Robles’ City Park.
AUGUST 10, & 31
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave.
6:30-8:30pm
Bring a blanket or chair while listening to live music on a summer evening. Aug. 3 - Josh Rosenblum Band, August 10 - Stellar, and August 31 - The JD Project.
AUGUST 13
TUESDAYS IN THE PARK Atascadero Lake Park 7pm
Tuesdays in the Park free one hour concerts by the Atascadero Community Band. Kiwanis BBQ at 5pm on August 6 before the concert.
AUGUST 14, & 21
CONCERTS IN THE PARK Templeton Park 6-8pm
Free live music event with food and drinks to purchase. Dogs are not allowed.
AUGUST 10 & 24
SUMMER MOVIES IN
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY FARMERS MARKETS
THE PARK Colony Park, 5599 Traffic Way, Atascadero
8-10pm
Have an outdoor evening of family fun and activities before the movie. August 10 - Wonka - and August 24 - Kung Fu Panda 4.
AUGUST 16-17
CRUISIN’ WEEKEND
Downtown Atascadero
The weekend kicks of with the 31st Annual Hot El Camino Cruise Nite on Aug. 16 at 6:30pm, and continues with the 33rd Annual mid State Cruisers Car Show from 10am-3pm on August 17 at Atascadero Lake Park, followed by 8th
Annual Dancing in the Streets Downtown from 5-10pm. For more information, visit visitatascadero.com/events/index. php?id=581.
AUGUST 20
SECOND ANNUAL ENSEMBLES CONCERT Atascadero Lake Park
7pm
Second annual Ensembles
Concert — small groups from the Atascadero Community Band will musically entertain you for an hour! Free, as always.
AUGUST 24
6TH ANNUAL CENTRAL
COAST CIDER FESTIVAL Pavillion on the Lake and
Atascadero Lake Park 4-8pm
Enjoy and evening of cider education and tasting with the Central Coast Cider Association. 21 years and older.
KIDS TRADING DAY FLEA MARKET & COMIC BOOK EXPO
City Park, Downtown Paso Robles 9am-3pm
Buy, sell, and trade items at this fun event. For information, visit pasoroblesdowntown.org.
11TH ANNUAL MAC AND CHEESE FEST
Avila Beach
Over 2,000 attendees expected!
Enjoy Mac & Cheese from over 25 of the most talented chefs, restaurants and caterers on the Central Coast and beyond! Don’t forget to vote for your favorite as they compete for the best mac and cheese! Sample beer, wine, spirits. Live music. 21+. Visit themacandcheesefest.com for details.
AUGUST 25
SAN MIGUEL OLD TIMERS BBQ San Miguel Community Park 12-2pm
Hosted by the San Miguel Lions Club in partnership with the Paso Robles Pioneer Day, this event promises a delightful barbecue experience for all.
PASO ROBLES Country Farm & Craft Market 1st Saturday of the month 11th and Spring, from 9 am to 1 pm.
TEMPLETON Every Saturday Crocker St. and 6th St from 9 am to 12:30 pm.
ATASCADERO Every Wednesday 6505 El Camino Real from 3 to 6 p.m.
Atascadero Happenings: Downtown A-Town August
Cruise Weekend, a town favorite, is scheduled for August 16 and 17
ATASCADERO — It has circled into a full year that I’ve been writing these articles. It is an honor to write them and an honor to be in business in downtown Atascadero. July marked three years for my little optical shop on Traffic Way, and I’m so beyond grateful my dream was successful. Thank you for your support.
Familiar events we all know and love are happening this month. Starting off with Movies in the Park — at Colony Park off Traffic Way. August 10’s show will be “Wonka” and August 24 will be “Kung Fu Panda.” Bring your low-backed
chairs and snacks and enjoy a movie under the stars. Movies start around 8:30 p.m. These movies always seem to be nostalgic as summer’s last hurrah, staying up late before the school routine starts anew.
Live music at Atascadero Lake Park will be happening August 3, 10, and 31 at the bandstand. Bring a low-back chair or blanket and a picnic dinner — or food is usually available for purchase there as well. Bands play from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
And Cruise Weekend, a town favorite, is scheduled for August 16 and 17, an entire weekend of fun. Cruise Night will be held August 16 starting at 6:30 p.m. on the downtown streets and El Camino. A car show is held at the Lake Park on Saturday, August 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Atascadero Lake Park, followed by the 8th Annual Dancing in the Streets in the Downtown from 5 to 10 p.m.
With the construction taking place on El Camino, I wanted to encourage you all to still get out and support local business, even if it requires patience and creativity to find parking. I am very excited about the changes coming to the downtown; it will be safer and more beautiful to walk around, but I know it is hard for small businesses to hang on during construction.
I’m always getting asked by clients about good restaurants. I did an Instagram poll recently and asked you to share your favorite food items as well as the restaurant. I wanted to share
some of the items here as I was literally drooling with all the responses. People complain we don’t have many restaurant options here but this made me realize how many we do have. Going to squeeze in here as many as I can:
• JonnyBoy’s, the new Jewish deli — for their lox bagel.
5935 Entrada Ave.
Juice Boss for their Boss Wrap and any of their smoothies. 5940 Entrada Ave.
Bramble Pie for their Shaker Lemon Pie and empanadas. 5945 Entrada Ave.
• Barley and Boar — “Anything” and their Bread and Butter. 5925 Entrada Ave
• Streetside faves are Street Fries and cauliflower tacos. 6155 El Camino Real
• Nogi Sushi for any of their weekly specials. 5810 Traffic Way
Mimosas and waffles at The Nest. 9700 El Camino Real Chicken Shawarma Plate from Byblos Mediterranean, 5945 Traffic Way
• Bahn Mei Carrot Dog from Wild Fields, 6907 El Camino Real
Hooray for downtown progress. I love watching things shift slowly as our town becomes more loved and accessible. See you downtown.
Paso Robles Main Street: Celebrating a great summer
Harvest Month is a reminder that purchasing seasonal foods at the farmers markets
good harvest and a great summer. Harvest Month is a reminder that purchasing seasonal foods at the farmers markets improves their flavors and nutritional values for you and supports small farms and businesses while stimulating our local economy. Paso is fortunate to have two weekly markets every week. On the corner of 11th and Spring streets, in front of the library. The Tuesday Market is from 9:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. The Saturday Market, which includes handmade crafts, is from 9:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.
On August 19 our Full Sturgeon Moon appears as the first Supermoon in 2024. This moon is named for the large fresh water fish found in the Great Lakes this
time of year. It can be the size of a bass or a Volkswagen. As a Supermoon, it is closest to the earth on this date and appears larger and brighter than other full moons. This lunar energy has a powerful influence on our deep feelings of love, romance, and relationships. Dean Martin sang about it: “When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s amore.”
There’s a “Persied Meteor Shower” on the 11th through the 13th of this month, one of the busiest showers of the year. This brings up the subject of stargazing. This event, done with the naked eye, is a great way to stay connected and balanced in life. To spend time looking at the sky on any given night, from a place
of semi-darkness and relaxation brings a message from the cosmos that our problems are minuscule in the grand scheme of things. You gradually let go of the day and embrace the quiet, peaceful stillness of the night. Stress is lowered, your restless thoughts are quiet, you fall asleep faster, and stay longer. A perfect prescription, and the price is right.
“For my part, I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream”. Vincent Van Gogh. Join Paso Robles Main Street on Saturday the 24th from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. for one of our most popular events in the City Park. It’s time to browse and shop for gifts and treasures at the “Trading Day — A Vintage Market.” We’ll also be
featuring “The Kids’ Flea Market,” where kids buy and sell with each other. It’s a great learning experience for the younger people and fun to watch.
Joining in the fun will be “Comictopia,” where you can come and unlock your inner child. This Comic Expo is an unforgettable celebration of everything from comics, superheroes, and science fiction. There will be vendors, food, and activities for everyone. It’s free for you and fun for all ages. With all the gifts of August, we’re ready to enter the fourth quarter of 2024. So often, people start to feel tired and drained. It’s easy to lose motivation and let our dreams slip away. It is a busy, joyful time of year.
