Atascadero News • December 15, 2022

CHAMPIONSHIP

Mud Bowl in the Mudhole: Atascadero Wins First State Championship in Program History

rout was on.

By CONNOR ALLEN Special to Atascadero News

ATASCADERO — The Atascadero Greyhounds are the 6-A State Champions after

dismantling San Gabriel High School 41-0 in the championship game at home on Saturday night, Dec. 10. After a full day of rain that continued into the evening, Memorial Stadium’s field more closely resembled a marsh than a football field, but that didn’t stop the Greyhounds

from running over, around and through the Matador defense.

The game was never in question as the Hounds jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter and went into halftime up 35-0. As a matter of fact, Atascadero’s 41-point victory was the third-largest margin of

victory among this year’s 15 State Championship games while the Hounds are the only team to not allow a point (excluding St. John Bosco, who only played one game) in the state playoffs.

Atascadero got the scoring started with a pair of 40-yard plus touchdown runs on their

first two drives by senior running back Trey Cooks as it became obvious that the Hounds were much more comfortable in the elements than the traveling Matadors. Atascadero would add two more rushing touchdowns in the half and a defensive score on a fumble return, and the

The Atascadero defense put a stranglehold on its opponents during its postseason run, only allowing 21 total points and registering three shutouts in five games against the best the section and the state had to offer.

NORTH COUNTY —

The San Luis Obispo County Clerk-Recorder’s Office officially certified the 2022 General Election results on Wednesday, Dec. 7.

Overall, voter turnout was low for the county and throughout the state. The City of Atascadero has 20,158 registered voters, and only 13,481 (66.88 percent) votes were cast. For the City of Paso Robles, there are 18,558, and only 11,272 (60.74 percent) votes were cast. Unincorporated areas of the county have 78,965 registered voters, with 53,285 (67.48 percent) casted votes.

Below are the final election results from the 2022 General

Sunken Gardens

Wonderland returned for its 19th year. An estimated 10,000 residents from San Luis Obispo County came out to Sunken Gardens to enjoy all the snowfilled holiday festivities offered before the weekend’s massive rainstorm rolled in.

“The weather was in our favor, and we didn’t have any reason to

cancel. We were very lucky,” said Deputy City Manager Terrie Banish.

The favorite holiday event brought in 75 tons of snow, which was used to transform downtown Atascadero into a snowy wonderland. The Kiwanis Club of Atascadero, Cuesta Springs Ice Company & Premier

Ag built a snow slide that took up three-quarters of a city block. The rest of the snow was used to create two large snow piles for local kids to play in. Santa kicked off the snow slide by being the first one to go down it. After, Santa and Mrs. Claus were at the Historic City Hall to take

ATASCADERO—The

Atascadero City Council met for its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m. The hybrid meeting was held in the City Council Chambers. The agenda for the evening passed unanimously.

All six items on the Consent Calendar passed after

Greyhounds dominate San Gabriel 41-0 in the Division 6-A title game

Atascadero Greyhounds High head coach Vic Cooper displays the trophy while surrounded by his team after a 41-0 win against San Gabriel in the Division 6-A State Championship. Photo by Nicholas Mattson/ATN

Santa and Mrs. Claus pose by an illuminated Santa sign near City Hall in Sunken Gardens on Friday night where an estimated 10,000 people attended Winter Wonderland. Photo by Rick Evans/ATN

ATASCADERO — On the evening of Friday, Dec. 9, from 5 to 9 p.m., Atascadero’s Winter

Winter Solstice — When The Sun Seems to Stand Still

By JOHN COPELAND

The nights are feeling pretty long right now as winter nears. It will begin on the solstice, Wednesday, Dec. 21, which will be the shortest day and longest night of the year. Here in Santa Ynez, winter arrives at 1:47 p.m.

I know, it seems little odd that we change seasons at 1:47 p.m., but the solstice is an astronomical event and driven by the clockwork of Earth’s orbit around the sun. As Earth travels around the sun, it wobbles on its axis tilting toward the sun part of the year and then tilting away from the sun, altering the intensity and duration of sunlight falling on the Northern and Southern hemispheres, driving the cycle of the seasons. As the Northern Hemisphere sees the start of winter, the Southern Hemisphere will be enjoying the first day of summer.

The solstice occurs simultaneously around the globe when the sun is directly over the Tropic of Capricorn, which is located at 23.5° south of the equator. On the 21st, winter officially arrives east of the Mississippi, at 4:47 p.m. (EST), in the middle of North

America, at 3:47 p.m. (CST) and in western Europe at 9:47 p.m. (UTC). From the summer solstice in June, to the winter solstice, the point on the horizon that the sun rises and sets moves southward each day. On Dec. 21, the sun’s path will reach its southernmost position and on Dec. 22 will begin the long journey north again. However, for a few days both before and after the winter solstice, the change in the sun’s position over the equator is so slight that appears to be standing still, which is what the word “solstice” means. The word is derived from the Latin words “sol” (sun) and “sistere” (to stand still).

Winter inspires both joy and woe. No one is really sure how long ago humans recognized the winter solstice and began celebrating it as a turning point. Many cultures the world over have solstice festivals. At their root: the ancient fear that the failing light would not return unless humans intervened. Our ancestors were determined to brighten the darkest month of the year.

At least 5,000 years of human history have given this season many layers of folklore, tradition, and celebration. Across time, people not that different than us have marked this

NONPROFIT

change of seasons with festivals of light and ceremonies of renewal. The Yule log, evergreens, colored glass ornaments, and wassail bowls, may have origins lost in time but remain traditions designed to make the season bright.

Romans welcomed winter with the festival of Saturnalia, honoring Saturn, the god of agriculture. People decorated their houses with evergreen branches and lit lamps all night to ward off the darkness.

The ancient Celts hung golden apples and lit candles on oak trees to celebrate the winter solstice.

Hanukkah is the Jewish Festival of Lights celebrated in countries all over the world. In 165 BCE there was a great battle between the Maccabees and the Syrians. The Jews won the battle, and when they went to their temple, they found that the Syrians had allowed their sacred light to go out. They only had oil for one day. The miracle of Hanukkah is that the oil lasted eight days until a messenger could return with more. There are nine candles in the menorah. One of them is used to light the other candles, and the other eight stand for the eight days that the oil kept burning

State Farm Partners with Operation Santa to Provide Presents to Children

Agents are partnering to provide gifts to 45 of the nearly 1,000 kids whom the department works with

By BLAKE ASHLEY FRINO-GERL

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — San Luis Obispo County’s Department of Social Services hosts a program called Operation Santa every year to fulfill the wishes of local children from low and moderate-income families, foster children, and seniors throughout the county who might otherwise not receive Christmas gifts.

This year, State Farm agents are partnering to provide gifts to 45 of the nearly 1,000 kids who the department works with. Agents who are assisting in fulfilling children’s wishes include, Susan Rodriguez, Ashlyn Silva, Catherine Riedstra, Todd Huebler, Sara Hays, Karen Perlette. While the focus is mainly on the effort to

give children holiday gifts, Operation Santa is available throughout the year to help families.

The families are participants in various programs within the Department of Social Services including Foster Care, Homeless Services, Child Welfare Services, CalWORKs, Food Stamps and Adult Protective Services. The program has provided backpacks, school and art supplies, clothing, gift cards, books and toys.

In addition, Operation Santa works to assist the vulnerable senior population by giving them items they may need, but not have the resources to purchase themselves.

The program is 100 percent dependent on donations from the community, and each year fills approximately 1,000 wishes during the holidays and more throughout the year.

To donate, please call Marge Castle at (805) 788-2575

In Chaco Canyon, New Mexico, Anasazi Indians, who were expert sky watchers, carved spiral designs into rock to track the seasons and record the passage of time. In Chaco Canyon is a petroglyph called the Sun Dagger because of the way the sun’s wedgeshape beams strike it in midday during the winter solstice

In our times, Christmas has appropriated most of the ancient winter solstice customs, steeping it in superstition and folk belief. Christmas is the most culturally pervasive and successful festival of all time. Yet, for all the light and joy of Christmas, it requires the darkness as well.

Folklore of the season, from around the world, is full of stories witches, elves, trolls, vampires and even werewolves that roamed the hours of extended darkness at this time of year. Even ol’ St. Nicholas was accompanied by menacing companions in several European countries. Like the Krampus, they carried a sack, not unlike Santa’s, but instead of giving out gifts, they would stuff the bag full of bad children to be taken away and eaten!

Christmas has a magic that is difficult to grasp and even more difficult to explain. It brings together traditions,

VETERANS

ideas, and customs from all over the world and from all times in human history.

If all human civilization could write the complete story of Christmas past, and would be made up of Christians and non-Christians alike. Surprisingly, the tale would not begin in Bethlehem, but two thousand years earlier in the cradle of civilization. There would be Babylonians, Greeks and Romans, whose ancient customs became part of Christmas celebrations. It would include early Europeans hanging fir sprigs and winter greenery to renew life and protect against the cold blasts of Arctic wind. People who had not yet heard of the Christ child would be burning Yule logs. And the tale would continue for another two thousand years after Wise men gathered beside a manger in a stable. Each generation would add to the customs of Christmas. In the end, it would include the story of each of us who has ever hung an ornament on a tree or presented a gift to someone special.

May your celebrations of this season draw deep from the abundant joy and hopes and enduring traditions of all our ancestors and fill your home with warmth and good cheer.

National Wreaths Across America Day is Dec. 17

STAFF REPORT

TEMPLETON — National Wreaths Across America Day returns Dec. 17, and the Templeton American Legion Post #220 and the El Paso de Robles Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), plan to do their part to honor fallen veterans.

The El Paso de Robles Chapter, NSDAR, and the Templeton American Legion Post #220 will be placing Christmas wreaths on the graves of 350 veterans buried at the Templeton Cemetery. Templeton 4H and the El Paso de Robles Chapter NSDAR will be assisting with the placement of the wreaths.

Wreaths Across America (WAA) coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 2,500 locations across the United States, at sea, and abroad.

SAT dec 17

32ND ANNUAL TEDDY

BEAR TEA

PASO ROBLES INN BALLROOM

12-4 PM

Bring your Teddy Bear, dress him up. Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Snow King, and Queen, as well as Santa’s Elves, will be there for the fun at the Park Ballroom. Tickets are $8 for children and $20 for adults. Bring your camera for those precious memories.

HOLIDAY MAGIC

CHARLES PADDOCK ZOO

10 AM - 1 PM

The zookeepers have stepped in as Santa’s Elves to prepare gifts for the animals. Santa will be at the Zoo to help welcome visitors and deliver gifts to the animals.

SANTA’S POP-UP

REINDEER FARM

CHARLES PADDOCK ZOO

10 AM - 4 PM

Santa is sending two of his Reindeer to visit the Charles Paddock Zoo in Atascadero before Christmas.

WAA is committed to teaching younger generations about the value of their freedoms and the importance of honoring those who sacrificed so much to protect those freedoms. The organization offers learning tools, interactive media projects, and opportunities for youth groups to participate in the events. They also work to create opportunities to connect “the Greatest Generation” with the “Generation of Hope,” passing on inspirational stories from World War II veterans to the leaders of the future.

On Dec. 17, at 10 a.m., WAA will be at Templeton Cemetery District to Remember and Honor our veterans through the laying of Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes and the act of saying the name of each and every veteran aloud.

For more information on Wreaths Across America, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org

SAN MIGUEL CHRISTMAS

PARADE

LIGHTS

MISSION STREET

6 PM

Locals join together for the 32nd Annual Christmas Lights Parade presented by the San Miguel Firefighters Association.

LIGHTED VEHICLE PARADE Creston

5 PM

This parade includes all sorts of people and floats and horses, dogs, goats, golf carts, anything with lights.

SUN dec 18

HANUKKAH MENORAH LIGHTING PASO ROBLES CITY PARK 5PM Chabad of Paso Robles will light a 9-foot public Hanukkah menorah and the event will feature hot soup and latkes, live music, and activities for children.

SAT dec 31

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION

PASO ROBLES CITY PARK 7 - 11 PM

The free event features a bonfire, live music, DJ, fire dancers, food trucks, beverage booths and a 9 p.m. ball drop to coincide with midnight on the east coast.

SUN JAN 1

POLAR BEAR PLUNGE AVILA BEACH PIER

12 PM

The 11th annual Avila Beach Polar Bear Plunge is a celebration of fitness, nature, a New Year, camaraderie, and still having dessert.

POLAR BEAR

CAYUCOS PIER

12 PM

DIP

Take the plunge at their 43rd Annual Carlin Soule Memorial Polar Bear Dip. Join them late morning for festivities that include music, dancing, prizes, and participant certificates.

Paso Robles 11TH & SPRING PASO ROBLES, CA 93446 9am – 11am

Atascadero

Paso Robles: County Farm & Craft Market 11TH & SPRING, PASO ROBLES 9am – 1pm

PASO ROBLES — On Saturday, Dec. 17, the Downtown Paso Robles Main Street Association will host the 32nd Annual Victorian Teddy Bear Tea for the children of Paso Robles. Tickets are on sale for this popular event through my805tix.com (enter “93446” in the search).

Children bring their favorite teddy bears — often in spectacular costumes — to the Teddy Bear Tea, which will be held at the Paso Robles Park Ballroom (1232 Park Street) from 2 to 4 p.m. Seating is limited. Tickets include all the fun, tea (juice) and cook -

ies,

An Update from the Atascadero Senior Center

Membership

center as they continue to look for more volunteers

STAFF REPORT

ATASCADERO — The Atascadero Senior Center has been catching momentum, and membership is up. They are very grateful for the new members. However, things continue to be tight right now, especially as a nonprofit with minimal funding outside of its efforts.

The Center is run strictly by volunteers and does not receive assistance from the city like most other senior centers. The Atascadero Senior Center is looking for more people to volunteer to run the front desk. It’s two hours a day, Monday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

If nothing else, staff would like to have some backup volunteers for occasional coverage. They’re also looking for people who would like to run more groups and come up with ideas for new groups. The groups can vary in time or day according to the availability of the volunteers. Right now, the center is offering Tai Chi three days a week as well as things such as Bunco and an occasional arts and crafts group, among other activities. There’s also a Qi Gong group, and work is being done to get the Socrates Cafe Discussion group, as well as other opportunities. The groups’ goal is to provide support, human connection, and fun to the seniors. The groups are free.

The Senior Center does some other great things as well. It loans out assistive equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, and canes to seniors at no cost. It has a large list of community resources to connect seniors with many

forms of assistance. There’s information on federal, state, and local programs. They also have a small library where people can borrow books and videos. People can also come in to play board games or do puzzles as well.

The Atascadero Senior Center is proud to provide assistance and be connected with the “Meals That Connect Program.” This program is located in the Senior Center, right behind its main building. It’s a program that provides meals to seniors at a minimal cost. In some cases, they can even deliver. Elizabeth runs the program for senior meals, and she’s absolutely amazing. The Senior Meals program can be reached at (805) 466-2317.

Funding continues to be challenging and has provided an additional obstacle. Senior Center officials are trying to find new opportunities to receive donations and create fundraisers right now. For more information and current updates, visit the Facebook page “Atascadero Senior Center” or contact by phone at (805) 466-4674. The Atascadero Senior Center is located in the beautiful downtown area by the Sunken Garden Park at 5905 East Mall.

Membership is only $10 a year. If you visit the Senior Center on Mondays, you’ll probably get to meet Ranger the Bodacious Beach Dog.

The Atascadero Senior Center is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization with Tax ID EIN 23-7405207. If you would like to donate to the Atascadero Senior Center, checks can be written out to SCUI (Senior Citizens United Inc.)

Those at the center would like to thank the community for all of its support. A special thank you to all of the amazing volunteers. Last but not least, thank you, San Luis Obispo County 2nd District Supervisor Bruce Gibson, for helping Atascadero Senior Center receive a grant to repair their roof.

ATASCADERO — The City of Atascadero has a tour map to enjoy that will certainly get you in the holiday spirit. Throughout the area, you can experience dozens of lights and enjoy the work that went into making our city sparkle.

On Dec. 9, the winners of the lighting contests were announced at the annual Winter Wonderland event.

Trail of Lights Holiday Lighting Tour Map Winners:

Best Use of Theme: 1st Place: “A Merry Patchwork Christmas” — 3950 San Anselmo Road

2nd Place: “Traffic Lights” — 5690 Traffic Way

Most Creative Light Display:

For

ATASCADERO — The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce announced the 2023 Central Coast Wine Passport participants. Passports allow one complimentary tasting or flight per passport at 53 locations and are valid from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2023. Discounts are also offered at 13 other businesses. The cost is $75 and can be purchased at atascaderochamber.org.

Participating wineries include Alpha Omega Collective, AmByth Estate, Ancient Peaks Winery, Bella Luna Estate Winery, Bianchi Winery, Broken Earth Winery, Cass Winery, Castoro Cellars, Cayucos Cellars, Cutruzzola Vineyards, Cypher Winery, Derby Wine Estates, Dubost Winery, Eberly Winery, Ecluse Wines, Ella’s Vineyard, Field Recordings, Filipponi Ranch, Harmony Cellars, Hidden Oak Winery, High Camp Wines, Hoyt Family Vineyards, Hunt Cellars, Justin Vineyards & Winery (Chimney Rock and Downtown Tasting Rooms), Kula Vineyards & Winery, Le Vigne, Loma Seca Vineyards, McPrice Myers Wines, MEA Wine, Midnight Cellars, Moonstone Cellars, Mystic Hills Vineyard, Nenow Family Wines, Ruby Cellars, Opolo, Peachy Canyon,

1st Place: “Christmas Circle” — 9071 Palomar Ave.

2nd Place: “Clark Home” — 3015 Avenida Del Sol

BEST OVERALL Light Display: “A Merry Patchwork Christmas” 3950 San Anselmo Road

Winners will receive their ribbons and gift certificates by special delivery the week of Dec. 19.

The “Trail of Lights” holiday lighting trail map provides a guide to enjoy the best holiday lights in town now through Dec. 25 nightly between the hours of 5 to 8 p.m. This holiday trail map is an opportunity for residents and businesses to show off their homes and storefronts and for families to enjoy a safe and fun activity to drive through town and check out all the outdoor lights this season.

For those that still want to register for the Trail of Lights, you can do so through Dec. 22. For the “Trail of Lights” Holiday Lighting Tour map, go to visitatascadero. com/trailoflights.

Penman Springs, Ragtag Wine Company, Rava Wines, Ruby Cellars, Shadow Run Vineyards & Winery, Straight Out of Paso, Timshel Vineyards, Tolo Cellars, Unhinged Wine Bar, Vintage Cowboy and Wine Boss Paso Robles.

Breweries include Central Coast Brewing and Wild Fields Brewhouse.

Spirits and cider can be enjoyed at Bethel Road, Bristols Cider House, Forager (Central Coast Distillery), SLO Cider Co. and Willow Creek.

Complimentary corkage may be used one time at Cielo, Don Q, Guest House Grill, Union & Vine (SpringHill Suites), and Streetside Ale House (Atascadero & Paso).

The following Atascadero hotels offer promotions: The Carlton Hotel, Holiday Inn Express & Suites of Atascadero, Home2Suites, and SpringHill Suites.

Olive oil tasting is available at Olea Farm and Olivas de Oro. Alle-Pia and Bramble Pie Company retail stores offer discounts to passport holders.

Gail Kudlac helped coordinate participants in this year’s passport. Kudlac said, “Are you looking for that last minute stocking stuffer? How about a gift that lasts all year? Yes, you can have free tastings from wineries, breweries, ciders and distilleries all over the central coast.

and a commemorative teacup and saucer.

Tickets may be purchased for $8 per child and $20 per

adult from my805tix.com. Parents must purchase a ticket for themselves if they wish to accompany their child.

Special guests attending the Teddy Bear Tea will be the Snow Queen and King, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus,

the mischievous elves, and Victorian Friends. Each ticket holder will receive a teacup for a souvenir.

more information, call the Downtown Paso Robles Main Street office at (805) 238-4103.

is up for the

NORTH COUNTY NEWS

News Briefs: North San Luis Obispo County

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

Phone Scam Circulating in San Luis Obispo County

The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office is warning about an old scam that’s making a new comeback in San Luis Obispo County.

The Sheriff’s Office has been informed that several people in the last few days reported they had been contacted by someone claiming to be from the Sheriff’s Office. The scammers used technology that made it appear the call was coming from the Sheriff’s Office on caller ID. Residents were warned there was a warrant out for their arrest because they failed to appear for jury duty. The scammer has even used the names of actual judges to make the call appear to be legitimate. The caller indicates the resident can clear the warrant by making arrangements to give them information from a green dot card/ prepaid debit card. In one of those cases, a county resident fell victim to this scam with a reported loss of $5,000. The Sheriff’s Office want to warn residents these calls have no connection to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office or Superior Court.

The Sheriff’s Office reminds the public that it is not their practice

or the court’s to contact residents by phone regarding these matters. Anyone who receives a call like this should report it to their local law enforcement agency. Please inform your family and friends about this scam so they can be prepared in the event they receive a call like this.

PASO ROBLES

Man Assisted out of Salinas River Sunday Morning

A man was assisted out of the Salinas River early Sunday morning by the Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services following heavy rainfall.

At approximately 6 a.m., the Paso Robles Police and Fire Dispatch Center received a call for a person stranded on an island with rising flood waters. Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services responded with a full rescue response and utilizing specialized water rescue equipment to assist the person to safety.

The victim was uninjured and provided further assistance with warming measures to prevent hypothermia. Additional incident support was provided by the Paso Robles Police Department and San Luis Ambulance.

The Salinas Riverbed is extremely hazardous during these heavy rainfall events and all residents are advised to not enter the riverbed.

San Luis Obispo County Weekend Rain Report

North County cities saw close to three inches of rain over the weekend

By BLAKE ASHLEY FRINO-GERL CONTRIBUTOR

SAN LUIS OBISPO

COUNTY — More rain prevailed this past weekend, again exceeding our regular late fall rain income. Cold and stormy weather was prevalent throughout the county, sometimes intermittently but more often continuously.

Morro Bay received 5 inches, and San Luis Obispo got 4.39 inches of rain from Dec. 10-12, according to slocountywater.org. While other cities like Templeton and Los Osos increased close to an inch. Yet, Oceano’s rainfall decreased by an inch — down from 1.58 to 1.07 inches.

Rainfall measurements (in inches) over the weekend of Dec. 10 and 11, as noted on slocountywater.org and prcity.

com:

Paso Robles: 2.36

Atascadero 2.5

• Templeton 3.5

• Cambria 1.5

• Arroyo Grande 1.55

The cold weather has been very consistent over the past few weeks, with lows in the 30s and highs in some parts reaching the low 60s. The oncoming winds have inflicted the colder front, as well as high surf and power outages.

Avila Beach winds reached over 30 mph. this past weekend, according to windfinder. com. The gusty winds and high waves created foam throughout the coastal region.

In addition, nearly 8,000 people in Atascadero, Cambria, Cayucos, Edna, Garden Farms, Harmony, Los Osos, Morro Bay, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo and Templeton were apart of long power outages that occurred due to stormy weather.

WM Announces 2022

Holiday Schedule

Residential customers will receive service one day late during the week of Dec. 26 and Jan. 2

STAFF REPORT

ATASCADERO — WM announced its 2022 holiday collection schedule change for the City of Atascadero. Residential customers will receive service one day late during the week of Dec. 26 and Jan. 2.

Commercial customers with regular service Dec. 26 and Jan. 2 will have a one-day delay; customers with service the other days of the week should maintain

their normal schedules. Those with questions can call WM Customer Service Center (805) 922-2121 or (800) 727-5923.

About WM WM, formerly Waste Management, provides Atascadero with recycling, trash collection, disposal services and resource recovery. The company’s customers include residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers throughout California. WM is a longstanding contributor and community partner. The Company helps customers lead more sustainable lives and helps municipalities achieve sustainable goals.

Paso Robles Planning Commission Volunteers Wanted

The City of Paso Robles is now accepting applications for three appointments to the Planning Commission. Appointments will be for 3-year terms expiring Feb. 28, 2026. Commissioners can expect to dedicate 15 to 20 hours each month to meetings, subcommittee meetings and meeting preparation.

The Planning Commission prepares recommendations to the City Council regarding the City’s General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. The Commission also performs duties related the approval/denial of development applications including Conditional Use Permits, Development Plans, Tentative Maps, and environmental reviews (CEQA).

Applicants are encouraged to review the Planning Commission Handbook for a complete overview of the Planning Commission’s responsibilities: prcity.com/DocumentCenter/View/25862/01-PCApproved-PR-City-Handbookdocx

The Planning Commission consists of seven members appointed by the City Council. Commission applicants must be either a qualified elector (resident of City of Paso Robles) or have a vested interest in the City.

The Commission meets on the

second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Conference Center. Subcommittee meetings are scheduled at the convenience of the Commission members. All Commissioners must participate in a rotational assignment (5 months annually) to the Development Review Committee, which meets each Mondays at 3:30 p.m.

Applicants are advised that all Commissioners are required to file annual Statements of Economic Interests (financial disclosure statements) and, under certain circumstances, there are restrictions on the actions of Planning Commissioners.

Applications may be obtained at City Hall, 1000 Spring Street or downloaded from the City web site at: prcity.com/DocumentCenter/ View/15289/Advisory-Body-Application-PDF or type “advisory application” in the site search box on the City website.

Applications are due by Friday, Feb. 10, 2023 at 5 p.m. at Paso Robles City Hall, 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles.

To be considered for appointment, your application must be received by the due date. For more information, please contact the Community Development Department at 805-237-3970 or via email at planning@prcity.com or the Deputy

City Clerk at 805-237-3960.

ATASCADERO

Atascadero Teen Killed in Highway 41 Accident

Reports have been made that an Atascadero teen was killed in a car accident on Highway 41 near Morro Bay on Saturday.

The incident happened just before noon, south of Bear Ridge Road. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the driver of a 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara, identified as Orion Messina (19), also of Atascadero, was heading southbound on the highway.

Messina reportedly told officers he hydroplaned when he entered a right-hand curve. The car then crashed into a hillside and overturned. According to officers, the 16-year-old passenger in the car was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to officers, alcohol appears to be a factor in the crash. While Messina was not injured, a CHP reports shows he was arrested.

Anyone with information on the crash is asked to call the CHP San Luis Obispo office at (805) 594-8700.

Paso Robles and Cal Poly Move Forward on Spaceport Initiative

Paso Robles City Council unanimously approved an agreement with Cal Poly to accelerate spaceport license STAFF REPORT

PASO ROBLES — Cal Poly will produce workforce development training programs to help create a hiring pipeline for students interested in any aspect of aerospace from welding to marketing to engineering.

On Tuesday, Dec. 6, the Paso Robles City Council unanimously approved an agreement with Cal Poly to accelerate the city’s pursuit of a spaceport license for the Paso Robles Airport.

“It is our vision that a spaceport designation and a close working relationship with Cal Poly will help advance our efforts to diversify our local economy, provide opportunities for Roblans and keep more local talent local,” says Paso Robles Mayor Steve Martin. “Paso Robles and Cal Poly are both known for pioneering, it’s an honor and a privilege to combine efforts for the benefit of future generations through the spaceport and tech corridor concepts.”

The agreement will activate Cal Poly’s Aerospace Engineering Department, along

with undergraduate and graduate students from several other departments to develop the spaceport license application for submittal to the Federal Aviation Administration by Summer 2023. Cal Poly’s proposal includes working with the city on developing a proposed tech corridor and engaging with other local education institutions, such as Cuesta College, on workforce development training programs to help create a hiring pipeline for students interested in any aspect of aerospace from welding to marketing to engineering.

“Innovation and education are key economic drivers for our region, and together, Cal Poly and the City of Paso Robles can accelerate career opportunities in cutting-edge industries while providing Learn by Doing experiences through the development of the spaceport and tech corridor,” said Bill Britton, Cal Poly’s vice president for information technology services and chief information officer. “Space companies want to know there is a workforce generator nearby, and Cal Poly provides this element with interns, engineers and operations workforce.”

Cal Poly’s interest in partnering with Paso Robles to get a spaceport designation from the FAA comes directly from their CubeSat program — they

helped pioneer small satellite technology and are currently producing cubesats at the SLO campus, but they and their clients have to go to the Mojave desert or beyond to launch them. In April 2022, Cal Poly President Jeffrey Armstrong signed a Letter of Intent with Martin marking the beginning of the partnership between the city and the university around the spaceport effort, this week’s action by City Council memorialized the partnership’s funding.

The three items in Cal Poly’s scope of work are:

Completion and submission of the FAA Spaceport License Application

Developing public-private sector partnerships for technology and innovation in the space, ag-tech and supporting industries.

Identifying the workforce development needs for relevant industries and outlining a strategy for meeting those needs.

The city can expect Cal Poly to submit a completed FAA Spaceport License Application by Aug. 31, 2023 and to have a roadmap in place for developing tech and aerospace apprenticeships for students with industry partners by Nov. 30, 2023.

The Digital Transformation Hub at Cal Poly, also called the DxHub, will spearhead the next several phases of the project.

RAINFALL TOTALS

SPACEPORT

Paso Robles City Mayor Steve Martin (left) shakes hands with Cal Poly’s Jeffrey Armstrong both in the agreement to move forward with the spaceport together. Contributed Photo

The NONPROFIT

805.237.6060 | office@13starsmedia.com | 805.466.2585

Atascadero Greyhound Foundation

AWARENESS - PREVENTION - INTERVENTION - EDUCATION

Paso Robles City Library January Calendar

The Paso Robles City Library is a welcoming community hub where excellent information-seeking experiences ignite discovery and learning.

Paso Robles Library Book Group Reads: Rules of Civility by Amor Towles Wednesday, Jan. 18, 6 to 7 p.m.

Library Conference Room

Twenty-five-year-old Katey Kontent, a young woman in post-Depression era New York, suddenly finds herself thrust into the upper echelons of New York society, where she will have little to rely upon other than a bracing wit and her own brand of cool nerve. The title is available in various formats in the catalog. Space is limited. Registration with Paso Robles City Library card required for each participant. (Group reservations cannot be processed.) For ages 16 and up.

Make a Felt Appliqué Brooch

Registration Deadline: Friday, Jan. 13

Materials Pick-Up Party: Wednesday, Feb. 1 6 to 7 p.m., Library Conference Room

Inspired by the quilts used by those traveling the Underground Railroad, create a wearable felt appliqué brooch resembling one of the blocks commonly used on these historic quilts. This is a perfect class for beginning and intermediate crafters, requiring design, sewing, and embroidery techniques. Space is limited.

Registration with Paso Robles City Library card required for each participant. (Group reservations cannot be processed.) For ages 16 and up.

Baby Story Time: Mother Goose Is on the Loose Again Thursdays, 10 a.m.

Story Hour Room

Mother Goose on the Loose, better known as Baby Story Time, is back with Miss Carrie.

Baby Story Time is an early literacy program for ages 0-18 months that uses nursery rhymes and songs to create positive connections between children and their caregivers. Due to the nature of this highly interactive hands-on program, one child per caregiver present is recommended. Adults must accompany their child into the Story Room. Space is limited, so please pick up your admission tickets at the Children’s Desk prior to Story Time.

Children’s Story Times

Mondays: Animal Tales with Miss Frances at 2:30 p.m. A story and craft appropriate for children in grades K-5.

Tuesdays: Cuentos y Crafts with Cristal at 4 p.m. Bilingual stories and craft appropriate for children in grades K-5.

Wednesdays: Preschool Story Time with Miss Melissa at 10 a.m. Stories and a craft specially selected for school readiness, ages 4-6.

Fridays: Toddler Story Time with Miss Cappy at 10 and 11 a.m. Stories, songs and a craft specially selected for early literacy skills, ages 1-3.

The Paso Robles City Library is located at 1000 Spring Street and is open Monday-Friday, 9-7 and Saturday 9-4. For more information, visit prcity.com.

CONTACT INFO

P.O. Box 3120, Atascadero, CA 93423 (805)712-6356 atascaderogreyhound foundation.org

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: atascaderogreyhoundfoundation.org/donate.html

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. upport 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.

CONTACT INFO

1000 Spring Street Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3870 prcity.com

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 info

CONTACT INFO

1051 Las Tablas Rd. Templeton, CA 93465 (805) 238-4411 Monday - Thursday 9 am – 4 pm Fridays by Appointment cscslo.org

Cancer Support

DONATION OPPORTUNITIES

Community – California Central Coast

All of our direct services are provided free of charge. Your donations make this possible. You can trust that you are making a difference for local families. We know you have many options when it comes to putting your charitable gifts to work! Our funds go towards the invaluable programs and services that help so many in our community facing cancer. Our online donations are processed securely through authorize.net. Your donations are 100% tax-deductible. For more information or to discover how you can help, visit cscslo.org/DonationOptions

CONTACT INFO

6875 Union Road Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3751 redwingshorse sanctuary.org

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

For information about making donations, adoptions, etc, visit redwingshorsesanctuary.com. For upcoming events, visit facebook.com/pg/redwingshorses/events

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

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.

Mary Ellen Chambers passed away on November 30th, 2022, at the age of 88.

She was born in Los Angeles, CA, on August 30th, 1934, To Frank and Ruby Burkhardt. She was one of five children.

Mary Retired from Atascadero State Hospital,

where she was a psychiatric technician.

Mary was a member of Saint Rose Catholic Church for 30 years. There was nothing more important or enjoyable to her than attending church.

To many, Mary was known as the Hat lady. She dedicated 20 years of her life as a chairman of fix 46 Committee. It

CRIME

was her passion to make the Highway safer. She was the grassroots of the project of turning highway 46 from 2 lanes to 4 lanes, as well as the installation of call boxes and building bridges. Bridges like the Estrella River Bridge were widened because of the lobbying Mary did. Mary was also an active supporter of the

Los Osos Resident Pleads Guilty to Felony DUI

The incident occurred on Halloween evening, Oct. 31, 2021; In 2017 she was convicted of vehicular manslaughter

faces up to six years in state prison.

Paso Robles Tea Party. Mary is survived by one sister Sidney Beauchamp. She was blessed with six children, 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

A Celebration of Life Is planned for January 6th at 11, with Chapel of the Roses Funeral Home in Atascadero.

DEATHS

ROSE GALSIM, 52, of Paso Robles, passed away Dec. 2, 2022.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

AMANDA LAMBERT, 94, of Arroyo Grande, passed away Nov. 29, 2022.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

STEPHEN RICHARDSON, 76, of Paso Robles, passed away Dec. 6, 2022. In the care of Blue Sky Cremation Service

LOS OSOS — Gianna Brencola (23) of Los Osos has entered a plea of guilty to felony driving while under the influence of alcohol and

The incident occurred on Halloween evening, Oct. 31, 2021, in Morro Bay. At a preliminary hearing, the court heard evidence that Brencola struck several parked cars while driving with a blood alcohol level exceeding .30 percent, more than three times the legal limit for driving which is .08 percent.

In a prior alcohol-related driving death occurring on Aug. 29, 2017, Bren -

cola struck and killed Cal Poly student Kennedy Love who was riding his bicycle on Foothill Boulevard in San Luis Obispo. Brencola was convicted of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and hit and run resulting in death, both felonies. She faced a maximum sentence of 10 years in state prison.

Corrections and Rehabilitation based on her participation in a community re-entry program while housed in prison.

MICHAEL BARRIOS age 69 a resident of the Central Coast passed away on 11/30/2022 In the care of Blue Sky Cremation Service

TOMMY WOODS JR age 80 a resident of Paso Robles passed away on 12/05/2022 In the care of Blue Sky Cremation Service

JOHNNIE LEO GORDON, 68, of Arroyo Grande, passed away Dec. 5, 2022.

She received a seven-year sentence but on Dec. 18, 2019, was released early by the California Department of

PAROL GRANTED

For her 2021 case, Brencola is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 30, 2023, in Department 8 of the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court where she faces a potential six years in prison.

The driving while under the influence charge carries a maximum sentence of three years, which could be doubled

due to her prior conviction for vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated which is a “strike” under California’s Three Strikes sentencing law.

District Attorney Responds to Convicted Murderer’s Granted Parole

Kaylee Ann Weisenberg was granted parole over family and District Attorney’s objection

STAFF REPORT STAFF REPORT

SAN LUIS OBISPO —

Rehabilitation

Board granted parole to Kaylee Ann Weisenberg, 35. In August of 2011 Weisenberg was convicted of second-degree murder and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated for her June 2010 killing of California Highway Patrol Officer Brett Oswald (48). She was sentenced in April 2012 to serve 15 years to life in state

prison.

On June 27, 2010, Weisenberg, while heavily under the influence of methamphetamine and speeding, lost control of her vehicle and crossed a set of double yellow lines striking and killing Oswald, who was attending to a disabled vehicle. The deadly collision occurred on South River Road in the rural north end of San Luis Obispo County.

This was Weisenberg’s second parole suitability hearing since her 2012 conviction.

Members of Oswald’s family including his widow, sister and parents attended the parole

hearing by video and strongly objected to her parole. A San Luis Obispo County Deputy District Attorney represented the office at the hearing and voiced a forceful objection to the release of Weisenberg based on the serious nature of the crime and continued danger to the community should she be released.

“I strongly disagree with the Parole Board’s decision to release Kaylee Ann Weisenberg back into the community after serving only 12 years for taking the life of a California Highway Patrolman,” said District Attorney Dan Dow. “My office will urge Governor

Newsom to review and repeal the Parole Board’s decision in this case.”

On August 5, 2011, Weisenberg was convicted by jury of second-degree murder and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and was sentenced to 15 years to life in state prison. At the time of her sentence, individuals convicted of murder received no “good time” credits. Meaning, Weisenberg was required to serve every day of 15 years prior to even being considered for parole. In 2016 Proposition 57 was passed which provides individuals convicted of violent crimes, such a murder,

up to a 1/3, or 33 percent, reduction in their sentence. As a result, Weisenberg was granted parole after serving only 12 years for her murder conviction.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

MARY COUTO, 88, of Grover Beach, passed away Dec. 7, 2022.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

PATRICIA MARTIN, 90, of Atascadero, passed away on 12/08/2022. In the care of chapel of the roses.

RONALD DRAKE, 71, of Arroyo Grande, passed away Dec. 10, 2022.

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach.

ALLEN HARRISON COBB, 89, of Arroyo Grande passed away on December 7th 2022. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

JAMES WAYLAND MILLER, 88, of Arroyo Grande passed away on December 9th 2022. Services are in the care of MarshallSpoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

MOSES “SPENCER” THATCHER, 88, of Arroyo Grande passed away on December 7th 2022. Services are in the care of MarshallSpoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach

DEENA MARIE WILLIAMS, 59, of Nipomo passed away on December 7th 2022. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

DECEMBER 06, 2022

00:44— Sean Edward Roberts, 40, transient, was arrested on the 6900 block of El Camino Real and cited for ARREST WARRANT/ MISDEMEANOR AND INFRACTION CASES [1427], FAILURE TO APPEAR AFTER PTA AND NOT POSTING BAIL [853.8]; Case no. 223055

10:02— Alan Wayne Duniven, 62, of Atascadero was cited for FAILURE TO APPEAR AFTER PTA AND NOT POSTING BAIL [853.8]; Case no. 223058 December 07, 2022

08:10— Kellen John Clarke, 59, of Atascadero was cited for DRIV:SUSP/ETC LIC:DUI:VIO [14601.2(A)]; Case no. 223072

21:00— Scott Lamont Adams, 54, of Paso Robles was arrested on the 7100 block of El Camino Real and cited for WARRANT:FTA VEH CODE VIOL [40515]; Case no. 223075 December 08, 2022

23:13— Douglas James Buckley, 45, of Atascadero was arrested on the 2200 block of El Camino Real and cited for POSSESS NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)], POSSESS UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)]; Case no. 223084

DECEMBER 05, 2022

00:21— Manuel Rojadelacruz, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the 3400 block of Spring St. for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC]; Case no. 223785

09:02— Ryan Paul Allen Debruler, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the 3000 block of Riverside Ave. for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC]; Case no. 223786

10:40— Corinne Elizabeth Silva, transient, was taken into custody on the 2700 block of Black Oak Dr. for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRIT-

TEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11377(A) H&S], POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S]; Case no. 223787

22:37— Raul Domitilo Munoz, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the 100 block of Niblick Rd. for OUTSIDE WARRANT-FELONY [O/W-F]; Case no. 223790

DECEMBER 06, 2022

01:11— Ricardo Marcello II Castorena, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the corner of Spring St. and 24th St. for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC]; Case no. 223791

02:55— Arthur Linda Mac, of San Miguel was on-view arrested on Northbound 101 and 36th St. for POSSESS NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)H&S]; Case no. 223792

10:30— Rebecca Ann Hurl, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the corner of Navajo Rd. and South River Rd. for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC]; Case no. 223798

19:49— Antonio Martinez Cedillo, of Santa Barbara, CA, was taken into custody on the 1800 block of Ramada Dr. for POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11377(A) H&S], POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S]; Case no. 223805

DECEMBER 07, 2022

01:38— Maria Elena Ines Galanos, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on

the 1200 block of Ysabel Ave. for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC]; Case no. 223808

01:21— Elmer Rosendo Quiteiro, of Atascadero was on-view arrested on the corner of 34th St. and Spring St. for DRIVING WHILE SUSPENDED FOR DUI [14601.2(A)VC], FALSE VEHICLE REGISTRATION [4462.5 VC], POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S]; Case no. 223806

01:35— Raul Valeracervantes, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the corner of Lana St. and Melody Dr. for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC]; Case no. 223807

10:10— Virginia Rey Lyon, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the 3200 block of Riverside Ave. for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC]; Case no. 223811

10:33— Michael David Huhtala, transient, was taken into custody on the 120 block of Niblick Rd. for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC]; Case no. 223813

10:50— Mark Anthony Grady, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the corner of 46E and Golden Hill Rd. for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC]; Case no. 223814

12:42— Gary Harold Staub, of Arroyo Grande was on-view arrested on the 140 block of Niblick Rd. for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC]; Case no. 223816

19:55— Antonio Martinez Cedillo,

of Santa Barbara, CA, was on-view arrested on the 1300 block of Ramada Dr. for being UNDER INFLUENCE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11550(A) H&S]; Case no. 223823

23:06— Chad William Taber, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the corner of Oak St. and 13th St. for DISORDERLY CONDUCT/DRUNK IN PUBLIC [647(F)PC]; Case no. 223824 23:15— Efrain Ortiz Moreno, of San Miguel was on-view arrested on the corner of 17th St. and Riverside Ave. for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC]; Case no. 16:47— Jonathan Alexander Maalouf, of San Miguel was on-view arrested on the corner of Black Oak Dr. and 24th St. for OUTSIDE WARRANT-FELONY [O/W-F]; Case no. 223821

DECEMBER 08, 2022

13:42— Mario Ahumada, of Albuquerque, NM, was on-view arrested on the 3200 block of Riverside Ave. for BURGLARY [459PC], WILLFULLY RESISTS,DELAYS,OBSTRUCTS…[148(A) (1)PC], KNOWINGLY BRING OR SEND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE INTO A JAIL OR PRISON [4573PC]; Case no. 223835

14:43— Jessica Ramirez, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the 1000 block of Park St. for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S]; Case no. 223836

14:26— Sylvia Galvan, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the 1000 block of Park St. for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC]; Case no. 223836

17:45— Nolan Shane Gustafsonpage, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on

the corner of 1st St. and Oak St. for being UNDER INFLUENCE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11550(A)H&S], POSSESS NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)H&S]; Case no. 223837

17:44— Shaun Turmel, of Atascadero was on-view arrested on the corner of 1st St. and Oak St. for POSSESS A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITH THE INTENT TO SELL [11351HS], PRISONERS ON PAROLE MUST CONTINUE TO BE UNDER THE OFFICIAL SUPERVISION OF THE STATE [3056PC]; Case no. 223837

18:46— Nicolas Stephen Gaddis, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the corner of 12th St. and Spring St. for being UNDER INFLUENCE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11550(A) H&S]; Case no. 223839

00:01— Oscar Alfarocruz, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the corner of 32nd St. and Spring St. for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC]; Case no. 223842

DECEMBER 09, 2022

00:56— Tykwan Davon Lewis, of Los Angeles, CA, was on-view arrested on the corner of 46E and Golden Hill Rd. for SUSPENDED/REVOKED DRIVERS LICENSE [14601.1(A)VC]; Case no. 223843

13:44— David Luis Alvarez, of Atascadero was taken into custody on the 100 block of Niblick Rd. for WILLFULLY TO VIOLATE A WRITTEN PROMISE TO APPEAR IN COURT [853.7PC], RECEIVING/CONCEALING STOLEN PROPERTY,ETC [496(A)PC]; Case no. 223845

21:08— George Ronald Denner, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the

corner of Rosemary Dr. and Niblick Rd. for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC]; Case no. 223849

23:26— Corinne Elizabeth Silva, transient, was on-view arrested on the corner of Experimental Station Rd. and River Oaks Dr. for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11377(A)H&S]; Case no. 223851

23:26— Hector Ruizalvizar, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the corner of Experimental Station Rd. and River Oaks Dr. for Bench Warrant [978.5PC], POSSESSION OF SPECIFIED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11377(A) H&S], POSSESSION OF BURGLARY TOOLS [466PC]; Case no. 223851

DECEMBER 10, 2022

00:00— Rogelio Morenobravo, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on the corner of 24th St. and Park St. for

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC]; Case no. 223852

DECEMBER 11, 2022

21:35— Celso Estebanortiz, of San Miguel was on-view arrested on the corner of 36th St. and Spring St. for

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC]; Case no. 223866

23:59— Jennifer Lynn Dawson, of Paso Robles was on-view arrested on 46E at Buena Vista Dr. for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC]; Case. 223867

MARY ELLEN CHAMBERS

CRIME DATA LISTED BELOW IS FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE UPON THE RECEIPT OF UPDATED INFORMATION. ALL SUSPECTS ARE

Parole

GIANNA BRENCOLA

KAYLEE ANN WEISENBERG

Let me begin by stating right up front that I am not a medical doctor, nor do I play one on TV. However, I do know my way around the public policy stage. During the late 1990s, I served as director of intergovernmental affairs in the US Department of Health and Human Services, the parent agency of the CDC, the Office of Public Health, and the surgeon general, so I am familiar with the territory.

I also had the unfortunate distinction of being blacklisted by Huffington Post after an eight-year run, which included nearly 200 published articles. I presented a piece in April 2016 raising questions about the relationship between vaccinations and rising rates in autism after attending the premier of the documentary “Vaxxed” (laprogressive. com/political-issues/children-should-hate-us). I am not an anti-vaxer, but I am sensitive to political manipulation and government corruption, which brings me to the issue at hand.

AB2098 will become state law in January and is designed to make spreading misinformation related to COVID-19 in California grounds for physicians to lose their medical licenses. Public policy is a complex endeavor and usually well-intentioned. The tricky part, however, is in its execution. The COVID pandemic has presented policymakers in two presidential administrations with difficult and constantly changing sets of data upon which to effectively administer remedies to protect the public. Striking the

LOCAL NEWS

balance between effectiveness and overreach often results in constant adjustments, such as the rocky road that mask-wearing has traversed.

The last thing in the world we need right now is to resist applying remedies to our approach to combatting virulent and constantly changing sets of variants. We continue to monitor and learn from the various forms the pandemic takes, so change is inevitable and warranted. However, we must be sure that we do not infect decisions where life and death and the public health of the nation are potentially at risk with political posturing rather than scientific facts. This is particularly true in a political environment that lends itself to hyper-partisanship and a deteriorating lack of confidence within the electorate.

One of the most frustrating developments over the past half-century or so is the steady decline in confidence in government institutions and elected leadership. Partisan dogfights have significantly reduced the public’s faith in an infrastructure that seriously has its best interests at heart. This decline is punctuated by partisan bickering and an infusion of political maladroitness with respect to public policy that leaves a confused electorate without direction. Make no mistake about it, COVID has presented policymakers with painstakingly difficult decisions that have serious consequences if not handled correctly.

While any deliberate effort to present misinformation and/or disinformation with respect to a public health emergency is a serious infraction that deserves accountability and responsibility, the preponderance of social media platforms to disseminate seemingly inaccurate information complicates the issue. There is a weighty premium placed upon getting it right, even if it involves revisiting past actions that have either proven ineffective or dated.

Dear Editor,

As taxpaying community members of Paso Robles, we feel it is of the utmost importance for the PRJUSD School Board Trustees to work together in support of providing the best educational opportunities for all of our students for the betterment of our community.

Over the past few years, the PRJUSD has faced challenges recruiting and retaining talented educators due in part to the highly publicized dysfunction of our school board, who is directly responsible for a federal civil rights investigation along with negative statewide publicity, including articles in Ed Source. We have endured a lot of turnover in the district including 102 teachers in the last two years. Unfortunately, the outgoing trustees have used their positions to routinely intro-

duce controversial and unnecessary politically motivated resolutions; effectively dedicating much of their time to distractions often meant to bully minority groups rather than solving real issues facing the district and uniting the community. The board response to the ethnic studies curriculum and to Spanish speaking community members was unacceptable. The bullying of LGBTQ+ students on the PRHS campus last year was sickening and the subsequent publicity was embarrassing. All students deserve the freedom to learn in a supportive environment without a governing body that divides and dehumanizes members of the very community they serve. At-risk youth need a supportive community that puts differences aside and accepts all students for who they are. Not providing this directly harms student success.

When Chris Bausch

Public policymaking is an intricate web of decisions that attempts to minimize the cons and maximize the pros of proposed remedies. As we can see from the current dilemma, it can change radically and what is true early on may not be either true in time. Political interference (i.e., the original Trump utterances about Clorox, ivermectin, and hydroxychloroquine) only demeaned the professional medical advice that was competing with the demand to address a life-anddeath situation.

Early directives about the use of masks has been contradicted with additional study. The fact of the matter, quite simply, is that we are effectively dealing with a moving target and we must accept the fact that as information and data becomes available, we must be prepared to adjust to the facts as they evolve.

As in all controversial and contentious issues, it is not always possible to identify the perfect solution. AB2098 defines misinformation as “false information that is contradicted by contemporary scientific consensus contrary to the standard of care.” Whether this is the appropriate or even the most feasible calculus will be revealed in time. In the meantime, we must be prepared to adapt to the changes that scientific study offers.

Five doctors and the ACLU have filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the legislation taking the position that it is inconsistent with the First Amendment right to free speech. The importance of satisfying our desire to arrest the continuing evolution of the virus is to project a seriousness of purpose which supersedes a political calculus. Thus, the only thing that is certain is uncertainty, and politics must give way to science. That is the challenge facing us as we move forward. We do not have the luxury of allowing perfect to be the enemy of the good.

AB2098 is now California law, and state medical boards can punish physicians spreading “misinformation” regarding COVID-19 treatments. Misinformation is defined as “false information that is contradicted by contemporary scientific consensus contrary to the standard of care.”

What/where is this scientific consensus? There is no Supreme Court of scientists that is the final word on topics, and in fact, the scientific method calls for constant re-examination and study of hypotheses with new data. Only foolish politicians with an agenda can envision a static scientific conclusion immune from contravening opinions and punish medical professionals for disagreeing with their public policies.

Nobel laureates have questioned the efficacy of lockdowns, increasingly asserting mortality figures were inflated as was vax efficacy, and minimization of adverse effects. The “Corona Truth Wars” are raging, but with the control of information, you may be unaware. The Great Barrington Declaration, spearheaded by epidemiologists at Harvard, Stanford, and Oxford, argued against universal lockdowns. Facebook deleted them, Google altered its search algorithm and YouTube took down their videos. Twitter censored highly cited epidemiologist Prof. Kulldorff for stating not everyone needs the vaccination, and LinkedIn suspended internationally recognized virologist Dr. Robert Malone. These are renowned mainstream scientists and doctors, leading experts, editors of medical journals, and authors of cited studies. The pressure is

resigned to join the City Council, trustees passed over a highly qualified candidate who could have served to bring our district together in a time of immense division and chose Kenneth Enney, a less qualified candidate, in order to strengthen a political ideology. It is the outgoing board trying to avoid a democratic process that failed their fiduciary responsibility while fully knowing about the potential of a special election being invoked by California Education Code. It is because of their actions that we are in the position we face today with the recall, subsequent special election, and its associated costs.

We are currently under the cloud of a yet-to-be-issued federal Office of Civil Rights (OCR) investigation report in response to a discrimination complaint against the outgoing school board. These types of legal issues will continue with

actions Mr. Enney supports, some of which are contrary to state law, like AB 1266.

When petitioners organized to appeal the appointment of Kenneth Enney, the financial cost of the special election was not taken lightly. This group was thoughtful and deliberate about this serious action - including a fulsome consideration of the financial cost. That said, the discussion of ‘costs’ is larger than the election itself.

There has been a large increase in overall revenue from state and federal sources including a large amount of one time money that has substantially increased district reserves, which following state law, cannot exceed 10 percent. The school board adopted a spending plan to spend down the increasing reserves so it does not exceed 10 percent. This includes significant amounts for increased facilities costs that should come from

immense. Last month Leana Wen M.D., a health commentator, cancelled her presentation to the American Public Health Association due to death threats for her support to loosen COVID restrictions.

Censorship by big tech is promoted by government agents defending their policies. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called on tech companies to report “health misinformation” to the federal government and to step up their efforts to remove it. China simply censored their leading health information platform — fascists governments can just do that. California has now passed a law effectively doing the same. Social media, big tech, and political activists have suppressed dissenting views and attacked any who dared to publicly contravene the heterodoxy on treatment and lockdowns. Now, lawmakers have made M.D.’s dissent professional misconduct. Troubling under normal circumstances, alarming since so much asserted as scientific truth during the pandemic has been revised or even reversed.

The CDC and FDA policies have swung wildly. Masks didn’t help, then everyone had to wear them. The lockdowns were going to last only two weeks to “flatten the curve” but lasted endless months. Vaccines were going to 100 percent keep us from getting sick, but now “lessen the effects.” Now, evidence is mounting of vaccine injuries. Litigation documents have revealed 783,000 sought medical care after COVID vaccinations. Federal agencies like the CDC provide guidance, but they’re not omnipotent. CDC Director Rochelle Walensky gave a public apology for their pandemic missteps and initiated an overhaul of the agency. They had berated scientists and doctors who disagreed with their recommendations for social distancing, closing businesses, and schools, and universal vaccination requirements. Now California has codified that destructive hubris into law, and California doctors have filed for a preliminary injunction to stop them and

restore free and open debate (Hoeg v. Newsom).

Curious how this pandemic precipitated vigorous political debates and deepened divides between the left and right, perhaps because government reacted atypically this time. We quarantined the healthy with the sick as never before. People were ordered to stay in their homes and not leave, weddings and funerals banned. Government coercion shut off the economy, creating the longest period of declining real income since World War II. Government spent $6 trillion above normal in pandemic “stimulus,” running the national debt up to 121 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (it was 31 percent in 1981), resulting in the highest inflation rate in 40 years. Economic consequences are devastating, but liberals argue a moral people accept these costs to save lives.

Disgraced New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo shut down New York, stating “if everything we do saves one life, I’ll be happy.”

Conservatives argue there are always tradeoffs, and the shutdowns also have destructive social consequences with skyrocketing suicides, overdoses, emotional problems, and crashing school competency scores. Add in the controversy over civil liberties, vaccine mandates, closing churches and political gatherings, and it’s hyperpolitical.

We still have a lot to figure out, scientifically and socially. Sweden did not require face masks, lockdowns, or close their primary schools, but their total excess deaths during the two years of pandemic were among the lowest in Europe. Acute COVID in their children is low, and they didn’t suffer the learning losses we did, nor the ill effects of social isolation. These and others are debatable topics, and they should be debated, not squelched. Stop shaming dissenting opinions and stay out of my doctor’s health care advice. To be clear, I’m not anti-vax, and in fact got the jab, but the last thing I want are doctors to be reticent about their opinion on our health care.

Measure M bond funds but has been augmented by general funds. In addition, a significant amount has been encumbered for “employee retention,” but it is ill advised to use these one-time funds for salaries, benefits or hiring because it is not ongoing money. The special election is a very appropriate use of these one-time dollars because it is the price of democracy that the current school board has chosen to ignore because of two consecutive undemocratic appointments. We expend government funds on the democratic election process every cycle and this is a direct extension of that provided for by the California education code.

As required by the California Election Code, the petitioners for the recall of Mr. Enney were transparent with the costs of the Special Election with a clear statement visible on each signature page.

Despite these stated costs, the signature gathering process was wildly successful. The recent election results and petition clearly show that the Paso Robles community resolves to put political agendas aside and desires more moderate leadership within the school district. In sum, we felt it would be irresponsible to allow the appointment of Kenneth Enney to go unchallenged and fully support the community’s right to vote for the candidate best suited to fill this seat on the school board in a special election.

Tracy Dauterman

Kathryn Myers Lauren Herrick Carey Alvord Dan Cano

Elena Garcia Pam McMullin

Susana A. López Heather Nguyen Lauren Biles

LANCE SIMMENS COMMENTARY

DON SCHMITZ COMMENTARY

From the Left

From the Right

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 SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY 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) 460-0762. awakeningways.org

GRACE CENTRAL COAST NORTH COUNTY CAMPUS 9325 El Bordo Avenue, Atascadero; Sunday Services at 9:30 and 11 a.m.; (805) 543-2358; gracecentralcoast.org; Helping people find and follow Jesus.

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH 238 17th St. Paso Robles; Sunday Worship 10 a.m.; Sunday School 10 a.m.; Our Wednesday Testimony; Meeting is the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.; Reading room-same location after services & by apportionment.

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.

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH 535 Creston Road., Paso Robles ; (805) 238-3549 ; Dr. Gary M. Barker, Pastor; Goal of church: To teach Believers to love God and people.; Sundays: 9 a.m. Sunday School; 10 a.m. Fellowship; 10:30 a.m. Service; 6 p.m. Eve Service; Wednesdays: 7 p.m. prayer meeting.

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.

ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 820 Creston Road., Paso Robles; (805) 238-2218- Parish Office open Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; website: www.saintrosechurch.org; Mass times;Daily Mass- 12:00 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.; Tues. 7 p.m. Spanish; Saturday 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Spanish Vigil Mass; Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass at 12:30PM. Father Rudolfo Contreras.

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.

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF ATASCADERO 11605 El Camino Real, Atascadero; Sunday Service Time: 10 a.m.; Nurs-ery Care Provided:; 9:45 a.m.- 12:15 p.m.; Mid-week student ministry; PreK-12th grade Sept-April, Weds, 4 p.m.; (805) 466-2566; Pastor Steve Poteete-Marshall; atascaderoumc.org.

ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 513 Palma Ave., Atascadero; Sunday services: Holy Eucharist — 9 a.m., Taize — 8 p.m.; the Rev. W. Merritt Greenwood, interim director; the Rev. James Arnold, Deacon; the Rev. Jacqueline Sebro, Deacon; office (805) 466-0379, fax (805) 466-6399; website stlukesatascadero.org; email office@stlukesatascadero.org

barbie butz COLUMNIST

Coats for Kids 2022 is behind us. That was the easy part. Now here’s the hard part — saying thank you to everyone who was involved. I’m talking about 4-H groups like Cerro Alto, who collected over 150 gently-used coats and jackets. And Plaza Cleaners in Paso Robles and Atascadero, along with Fashion Cleaners in Atascadero, who donated all the cleaning of gently used coats, jackets, sweaters, and sweatshirts. Then how about the North County Rotarians in Paso Robles, Templeton, and Atascadero, who not only put collection boxes out in the communities but collected the contents regularly. People like René Tierney and her son Matt collected the items from the cleaners in Atascadero and took them to our storage units at U-Stor-It Mini Storage.

I’m just beginning because the list goes on. Kim Madden at Tidwell Bookkeeping helps

A Thank You Letter

keep the books for us and for our fiscal agent, Atascadero Loaves and Fishes, and the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors answered our request for funds through their Community Project Grant program.

Key volunteers, like Paul and Carol Porter, Mike and Diane Schneider, Kent Kenney, Brenda and David May, Virginia Martinez and Ali Bowman, all help to keep things running smoothly. There are many more volunteers who have been with the project for years and some new ones who have joined us, and we thank them all.

Special thanks to Jeanne Robbins, Kathleen Aragon, and Tim Eckles of Atascadero Loaves and Fishes who helped with registrations for the distribution and the Community Project Grant.

The local media has been wonderful, and thanks go to Camille DeVaul with the Atascadero News, Atascadero Magazine, Paso Robles Magazine, and Central Coast Journal, Kevin Will and Dick Mason at KPRL Radio, and KSBY, for their coverage. The Blueprinter in Paso Robles helped get the word out by printing our fliers and working

on our banner.

SLO County Supervisor John Peschong presented a Certificate of Recognition to Coats for Kids for 35 years of serving North County families with warm coats and jackets. John also recognized Toy Bank of Greater Paso Robles and presented Amanda Bean, chairman, for their part in the “Day of Giving.” Thanks also go to John’s Legislative Assistant, Vicki Janssen for her help with the recognitions.

What I want you to know is that CFK is not just a few people putting on a one day event. It’s an event that involves hundreds of people. People who donate gently used items and take them to the cleaners are all a part of this project. So are the people who work at the cleaning facilities and help out there. The owners of businesses who allow collection boxes in their stores during the months of November and December are also helping out.

We work on Coats for Kids in some manner all year, especially the collection of gently used items. My husband John is a key partner in Coats for Kids and has been for 35 years. We have been blessed to be able to work together on a project that

Been There, Done That

benefits so many people in our area.

Our son, David, is a graphic designer who lives in Paso Robles. He has also been involved for years, and this year he took on the building of our new website. Please visit the site regularly as he will be adding some great pictures of the 2022 distribution. Visit coatsforkidsslocounty.org.

The danger of writing a column like this one is leaving someone out. I assure you it would not have been intentional, and as days go by I’m sure I will be reminded of many of you who helped. So, keep reading this column as I know I will be thanking more volunteers.

It appears that I am running out of space so I will close for now. Please stay warm. And as an ending note, we were able to donate boxes of warm coats and jackets to ECHO at the end of the distribution. So if you donated items, be assured that they will help keep someone warm.

Merry Christmas and Cheers.

Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at barbiewb@hotmail.com.

lee pitts COLUMNIST

It used to be that people traveled for pleasure. Now they travel for status. It’s the same reason why people spend $250,000 to $500,000 for a suborbital trip in space or $50 million per seat to actually orbit the earth. When the travel snobs come home, they’re left with much lighter wallets, a tan, and 5,000 photos on their iPhones they insist on showing me.

PLEASE, next time, just send me a postcard.

I admit it, I’m not a world traveler. No one has ever described me as being “cosmopolitan.” The only foreign countries I’ve been to are Canada, Fiji (to refuel), Australia and several times to Mexico. These days you’d have to hold a gun to my head to make me go to Mexico ... which some drug cartel member probably would do.

I’m a card-carrying member of the Infrequent Flyer’s Club

because I’ve already been everywhere I wanted to go. I’ve seen the pyramid, the Eiffel Tower and ridden in a gondola all in Las Vegas and I went to Europe, South America, Africa and Asia all on one trip to Disneyland where I rode the It’s A Small World ride. I’ve been to Chinatown in three different cities and why go all the way to Monaco to lose all my money on a craps table when I can accomplish the same thing at an Indian casino. If I want to get indigestion eating Thai cooking, authentic Chinese food, foie gras, caviar and truffles I can do that thirty minutes from my house so why do I need to spend $20,000 to go halfway around the world? And I can be fairly certain I’m not eating Fido.

My wife and I have a travel snob friend we call Horrible Harriet who just got back from a foray to the “continent,” which is Europe to the “plane-folk.” Upon her return, she couldn’t wait to ask me, “Lee, have you ever been to Paris?”

“Sure, I replied. “I’ve been to Paris, Idaho, and once I went with my old man to Paris, California, to buy a reefer to pull behind his Kenworth. I must say I found Paris, Idaho, to

be much more cultivated and urbane. Would you like to see my snapshots?”

“Don’t be such a simpleton,” said Horrible. “I assure you that visiting Berlin, Germany, expands your horizons far more than visiting Berlin, Oklahoma. We also went back to Athens this summer which one can never tire of. By the way, have you ever been there?”

“Sure, I’ve been to Athens, Texas. In fact I’ve had a lot of memorable foreign experiences in Eden, Geneva, Iraan, Italy, London and Tokio all without leaving Texas. And I bet I couldn’t have eaten chicken fried steak and drank lots of sweet tea in the Athens you went to. And the people are a whole lot nicer and most of them even speak a little English.”

Such talk was heresy and drove Horrible absolutely nuts. “Our next excursion we’ll be off to Peru to see Machu Picchu,” she said. “I don’t suppose you’ve ever been to Peru?”

“Harriet, don’t take me for some sort of country bumpkin. I was in Peru, Kansas, long before you ever heard of the place. In fact, you can see much of the world in Kansas, includ-

Great Relief and Rejoicing’

One of the unique and important biblical records of the birth of Jesus Christ is Matthew’s gospel. This scripture is theologically important because it clearly states that Jesus was born of a virgin thru the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit. If Jesus had been conceived naturally as the son of Joseph and Mary, He would be a sinner by nature and could have never become the Savior of the world. Mary’s pregnancy was holy (Luke 1:26-35) because she became pregnant as a virgin thru the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit

(Matthew 1:20, Luke 1:35). Jesus was God the Son before He became a human being and the virgin birth produced a holy human nature which He joined Himself to and became the God-man (John 1:1-4). To deny the virgin birth would make Jesus a sinner which is totally contrary to the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments. Matthew clearly teaches that in fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (Isaiah 7:14), Jesus would be born of a virgin as God who came to live as a man on earth as “Immanuel.”

Matthew’s scriptural record begins by stating that Mary was betrothed or married to Joseph before they begin to live together yet Joseph discovered that she was pregnant. Joseph knew that he hadn’t caused her pregnancy but thought she had committed adultery. I’m sure this caused him to have intense sorrow. As a just man,

who loved his wife, he decided to divorce Mary instead of having her put to death (Matthew 1:1819). Whatever Mary might have said to defend herself was obviously not believed by Joseph. He was convinced in his mind that she had been unfaithful. The Lord intervened thru a dream that He gave to Joseph and told him that she didn’t commit adultery but conceived and was pregnant thru the holy means of the power of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:20).

The Lord revealed to Joseph that Mary would give birth to a son and that He would be named “Jesus” which literally means: “The Lord is Salvation” (Matthew 1:21). Jesus’ mission on earth would be to “save His people from their sins.” Jesus was born to be the Savior of the world (Luke 2:10-11, John 3:16-18).

Can you imagine both the relief and joy that came into Joseph’s heart after hearing this good

ing Geneva, Stuttgart, Zurich and a place that might do you a lot of good called Climax.”

“How about Cuba, have you seen all the old American cars there or heard the lilt of their brand of Spanish?” asked Horrible.

“I assure you, you can see and hear the same thing in Cuba, New Mexico, while not breaking any laws to go there. I know Harriet that you’ve been all over the globe and consider yourself worldly but I’ve seen Genoa (NV), Guernsey, (WY), Bethlehem (GA), Lisbon, CT), Cairo, (AL), Normandy (IL) and Westminster (CO) all without hopping on a plane and without being mugged and molested by TSA officials. If I want to go places to be despised, taken advantage of and to someplace where they speak a foreign language I can do all that in LA or New York. In fact, rather than going through all the hassles of international travel that you’ve endured just for bragging rights I’d rather go to Purgatory. The one in Colorado, that is.” Lee Pitts is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at leepitts@leepittsbooks.com.

news from the Lord? All these events occurred in order to fulfill biblical prophecy (Matthew 1:22-24). Joseph then obeyed the Lord and began to live with the woman he loved so dearly. After Jesus’ birth Joseph and Mary had more children (Matthew 1:25, John 7:1-3, Matthew13:55-56).

The virgin birth of Jesus through Mary ended up bringing Joseph great joy and peace.

Lessons to Learn:

1. The eternal Son of God became a human being who was named Jesus.

2. Jesus became the Savior of the world thru Mary’s virgin birth (Luke 2:10-11).

3. Christmas should remind us that Jesus provided salvation for our sins (Matthew 1:21).

Dr. Gary Barker is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email him at pastor@ gracebaptistpaso.org.

dr. gary m. barker COLUMNIST

Photos By RICK EVANS

MOVIES: What was the name of the fictional kingdom in “Frozen”?

HISTORY: How many people died as a result of the Boston Massacre of 1770?

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What was the name of Scrooge’s business partner in “A Christmas Carol”?

TELEVISION: In what city is the long-running drama “Grey’s Anatomy” set?

GEOGRAPHY: Which two cities were the original endpoints of the Orient Express?

ANIMAL KINGDOM: How many legs does an ant have?

LITERATURE: What is the title of Toni Morrison’s first novel?

MATH: How many minutes are in a week?

BUSINESS SLOGANS: Which company’s slogan is, “Expect more. Pay less”?

EXPLORERS: What is the home country of Roald Amundsen, the first to reach the South Pole?

2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

Perhaps even more impressive, Atascadero never allowed a single point in the second half of any of their postseason games.

AHS Athletic Director Sam DeRose is also the architect of the Hounds defense as their defensive coordinator and has been with the Hounds for much of his life. DeRose joined the Hounds for the first time in 1987 and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 1988, after which he helped win four straight CIF Titles from 199396. The defensive specialist then took over as the Cal Poly defensive coordinator for two years before becoming the Greyhounds head coach from 1999-

2003, and then athletic director in 2004. However, despite all his success, Saturday was the first time he was able to raise a State Championship trophy over his head.

While the Atascadero defense ended the season looking like the 1985 Chicago Bears, it opened the season giving up more than 35 points in four straight games. It was a season of adjustments and that is exactly what DeRose and the defense did game after game.

“We made a few changes in the scheme from the past and there were some growing pains for athletes and staff,” DeRose told the Atascadero News. ”We grew together and the kids took it and ran, doing a phenomenal job. I

believe they kept getting better and better each week, confidence elevated, performance and assignment execution. They were scrappy and aggressive and, most importantly, became smart football players.”

Atascadero gave up 20 or more points in their final six regular season games before allowing 21 total in the final five games of the year. However, what made the Hounds defense so special this season was its ability to adapt on the fly, especially at halftime. By the end of the season, the Atascadero defense was swimming in confidence and it showed before the game Saturday night as the Hounds ditched their ceremonial walk to the goalposts in favor of a run due the

Councilmember Susan Funk commented on acknowledging the election with item A4: Reciting the Fact of the Nov. 8, 2022, General Municipal Election. And Councilmember Charles Bourbeau made a comment and thanked staff for making item A5: Santa Lucia Road Over Graves Creek Bridge Replacement Project Construction Phase Award happen.

Re-elected Mayor Heather Moreno, Councilmember

Heather Newsom, Councilmember Susan Funk, and Treasurer Gere Sibbach then read their Oaths of Office and were sworn into their elected positions for the next four years by City Clerk Lara Christensen.

“I just want to say congratulations, and it’s great to have the old team back together again,” stated councilmember Bourbeau.

“Thank you to all of you who have trusted us with this very important and grave responsibility. We take it seriously, and we very much appreciate you, and it truly is a privilege to serve,” added Mayor Heather Moreno.

The City Council then appointed Susan Funk as their new Mayor Pro Tem for the next two years. Funk was nominated by former Mayor Pro Tem Heather Newsom.

Community Development Director Phil Dunsmore then addressed the newly appointed council on the General Plan Update Project - Phase 2.

“This is a moment we’ve been waiting for for quite a while, our General Plan Update. We’ve been talking about it for years; well, now, it’s really happening. I don’t need to tell you it’s going to be happening in a few weeks,

pure excitement coursing through their veins.

“It was great winning a sectional title, it was very special and I was satisfied. I did not want anything to diminish that accomplishment. The kids wanted to complete the run, which was inspiring.” DeRose explained to the Atascadero News “This was first for [head coach] Vic [Cooper] and I. We had many on the staff who had never gotten to the CIF final let alone a state playoff. It was gratifying to see.”

Despite the downpour of rain the Greyhound faithful still came out and supported their football team and were treated to a piece of history by the night’s end. Atascadero is one of only a handful of teams in the state that got to end their season with a win

a few months. This is actually it,” stated Dunsmore.

Dan Amsden with MIG, Atascadero’s primary consultant for the General Plan Update Project, then took over the presentation.

The next part of the process will begin in January 2023, and there is a Community Open House currently scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023. There the community will be able to learn more and give input.

At the meeting, the council went over four key topics for the General Plan, which will reach into 2045. Those topics were:

and send off its 18 seniors with a smile and nice piece of jewelry. The Hounds will say goodbye to some of their top performers like Cooks, who ran for over 1,700 yards and scored 18 touchdowns; Diego Real, the top tackler on the team with 123; and Celtin Vert, who was instrumental in controlling opposing offensive lines.

The Hounds will need to fill some holes if they want to repeat as champions next season but also return some key players starting with their quarterback Kane Cooks and their top receiver and defensive back Mason Degnan.

Joining the Greyhounds as CIF State Champions this year are St. John Bosco (Open Division, defeated Serra 45-0),

1. Assets and Vision

2. Challenges and Opportunities

3. New Development and Mobility

4. Community Engagement Process and Additional Thoughts

An overarching theme throughout the council was that the younger generation needs to be fully included in the General Plan Update as they will be the future of Atascadero, and a need to bring in more jobs to the area.

The next item on the agenda was the Restaurant Development Incentive Loan Program. Deputy Director of Economic Commu-

Lincoln (1-AA, defeated De Le Salle 33-28), Liberty (1-A, defeated Pittsburg 48-20), Mater Dei (2-AA, defeated McClymonds 26-18), Granite Hills (2-A, defeated San Ramon Valley 31-24), Grant (3-AA, defeated San Jacinto 36-34), Laguna Hills (3-A, defeated Bellermine College Prep 28-27), Escalon (4-AA, defeated Northwood 28-7), San Marin (4-A, defeated Grenada Hills 32-8), Hughson (5-AA, defeated Muir 9-6), Orland (5-A, defeated Shafter 20-7), Classical Academy (6-AA, defeated Santa Teresa 7-0), Pinole Valley (7-AA, defeated Mendota 34-21) and Lincoln (7-A, defeated Crenshaw 54-6).

See final game photo gallery on page A13.

nity Development Loreli Cappel. The program would help install full-service kitchens in the Atascadero downtown area. Loans up to $125,000 would be available for hard costs like equipment, machinery, fixtures, and furniture in restaurants. Either new or going through major renovations. The interest rate would be 4.25%, and the loan term would be 84 months. The goal would be to expand local restaurants.

The motion passed unanimously.

City Council meetings will return in 2023.

photos with the kiddos.

“The event was back to its full potential with all of the vendors, snow piles, snow sled, Santa & Mrs. Claus, Joe’s Little Train [operated by the Elks Club of Atascadero], A-Town Skate Park demonstrations, plus performances by the Atascadero Fine Arts Academy Monarch Choir, All District Elementary Choir, Motions Academy of Dance, Fine Arts Academy of Dance, Atascadero High School Choirs,

ELECTION RESULTS

CONTINUED FROM A1

Election: PASO ROBLES

The Paso Robles Joint Unified School District had 10 people vying for three trustee area seats and one at-large seat. In Trustee Area 2, Joel Peterson ran unopposed and was not on the ballot.

Laurene D. McCoy has won the at-large seat with 38.72 percent of the vote over Adelita Hiteshew (36.83 percent), who held the firstplace position since election night. Candidate Jim Irving remained in third with 24.45 percent.

Jim Cogan will be serving Trustee Area 1, taking the seat with 48.18 percent over Chris Arend with 27.34 percent, and Peter Byrne with 24.47 percent.

Sondra Williams will serve Trustee Area 4 with 43.14

and Atascadero Middle School Choirs,” added Banish. “All was kicked off with California Mid State Fair Queens Court and Council Member Mark Dariz announcing the Trail of Lights Winners. [It was] a beautiful evening weather-wise and a fun night for the community.”

Winter Wonderland also featured 50 food and merchandise vendors where attendees could eat, warm up their insides, and finish up some of their holiday shopping while enjoying the festive setting.

On top of all the snow, there

percent of the vote, over Frank Triggs with 37.52 percent and Catherine Reimer with 19.35 percent.

Current City Mayor Steve Martin will serve another term as we won his campaign with 54.74 percent of the vote over candidate Michael Rivera (45.26 percent).

Current District 1 Paso Robles City Councilmember John Hamon came in with 100 percent of the votes, running unopposed. District 2 Paso Robles City Councilmember Chris Bausch, also running unopposed, came in with 100 percent of the vote.

As for Measure E-22, Appointive City Treasurer failed with 61.71 percent. And Measure F-22, Paso Robles Quality of Life/Community Safety Measure, passed with 58.93 percent.

ATASCADERO

At the close of the election,

were also other fun activities for families to participate in, and people looking for the perfect photo op were delighted by the addition of large letters spelling out Santa and snow.

“We added the big letters, and they were a hit for photo opportunities. All night long, families were taking pictures in front of SANTA or SNOW,” continued Banish.

Winter Wonderland would not have been possible without this year’s sponsors, including; Exclusive Sponsor: Cielo Ristorante & Rooftop Bar. Present-

not much will change within the City of Atascadero, which had two open at-large seats on their council and mayor up for election.

Current City of Atascadero Councilmembers Heather Newsom (43.77 percent) and Susan Funk (42.52 percent) will both serve another term on City Council.

City of Atascadero Mayor candidate Heather Moreno, who ran unopposed for re-election, will now serve another term as mayor, having secured 100 percent of the vote.

City of Atascadero Treasurer candidate Gere Sibbach, who ran unopposed, will serve another term as having captured 100 percent of the vote.

The Atascadero Unified School District had nine candidates running for four spots on the trustee board. The following four candidates will now be serving on the AUSD

ing Sponsors: American West Tire & Auto, Kiwanis Club of Atascadero, AJ Excavating, Chicago Grade Landfill, Cuesta Springs Ice Company, Premier Ag, and Supervisor Debbie Arnold. Supporting Sponsors: Filipponi & Thompson Drilling, Kirk Consulting, Perry’s Parcel & Gift, Stout Pediatric Dentistry. Snow Sponsors: Atascadero 76, Atascadero Insurance, CCPN, Delta Liquid Energy, HHMC Tax, Inc. (Hayner, Hayner, Miller & Crist), Healing the Quantum Way, Idlers HOME, Mechanics Bank, Nick Medeiros CPA,

board: Tracy Ellis-Weit with 14.99 percent, Vy Pierce with 14.39 percent, Rebekah Koznek with 12.76 percent, and Denise McGrew Kane with 12.31 percent of the vote.

TEMPLETON

Templeton Unified School District had two open seats on its board. Janel Armet, with 27.36 percent, and Jennifer Grinager, with 25.67 percent of the vote, will serve as the new trustees on the school board.

District 2 SLO County Supervisor District 2 SLO County Supervisor — Current District 2 Supervisor Bruce Gibson will serve another term as supervisor taking 50.03 percent of the vote, just a hair more than his competitor Bruce Jones who followed close behind with 49.97 percent — just 13 votes between the two.

Pambrun Bracing, Primary Eye Care, Radiology & Assoc., Starna Cells, Summer Real Estate, Inc., Taco Bell, and Western Janitorial Supply. Media sponsors: American General Media: KJUG 98.1 FM & KVEC AM 920, Dimes Media: The Beach 98.3 FM, KPRL AM 1230, and New Times.

Other community organizations and individuals involved in creating the magical Winter Wonderland were; A-Town Park, Elks Lodge #2733, Frank Sommers, Atascadero Chamber of Commerce, Fine

Arts Monarch Choir & All District Elementary Choir, Motion Academy of Dance, Fine Arts Academy Dance Group, Atascadero High School ASB, Atascadero High School Athletic Department, Atascadero High School Choirs, Atascadero Middle School Choirs, Atascadero High School Strings/Jazz/ Concert Band, Kiwanis Key Club, Medina Light Show Designs, Rotary of Atascadero!

Winter Wonderland will be back for its 20th year on Friday, Dec. 8, 2023.

Please

Atascadero

Atascadero, CA 93423

COUNCILMEMBER SUSAN FUNK Phone: (805) 464-7709 sfunk@atascadero.org

ATASCADERO CITY