Iwas deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Judson “Jud” Porter, a cherished member of our community, on Saturday, June 8, at the age of 83. As the co-owner and publisher of The Atascadero News for 42 years, Jud’s contributions have left an indelible mark on our community. Along with his parents and brothers, he dedicated decades to delivering local news, connecting our community, and preserving the legacy of this historic publication.
Last week, we published a heartfelt tribute to Jud, beautifully narrated with shared memories from his wife Christie and daughter Melissa. Their reflections on Jud, his love for his family, and his unwavering dedication to The Atascadero News painted a vivid picture of a man who truly cared for his community. As the current owner and publisher, alongside my husband, I would like to honor Jud’s family legacy by reflecting on the history and significance of The Atascadero News during the Porter Era and beyond.
The Early Days: E.G. Lewis Era
The Atascadero News was founded by Edward Gardner Lewis, a visionary who established Atascadero as a planned utopian community in 1913. As a magazine publisher, Lewis built the Atascadero Printery and began publishing The Atascadero News in 1916. The paper, initially priced at 2 cents per copy, focused on local news, social events, and community milestones. From its inception, it served as a vital source of information and connection for residents.
Transition and Growth: Ted Bishop and J. Montgomery Brown Eras
Throughout the years, the newspaper saw several owners, each leaving their unique imprint. Ted Bishop took over in 1925, guiding the publication through the Great Depression, while J. Montgomery Brown, a former Hearst newspaper man, brought a community-focused vision in 1935. Brown’s era emphasized local news with accuracy and kindness, setting a standard that would continue through subsequent generations.
Audience finds the ‘rich stuff’ at Monday Night Movie Club’s screening of ‘The Goonies’
The Movie Club shows nostalgic films on select Mondays at Colony Cinemas
By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com
ATASCADERO — Movie
lovers and silver screen aficionados were in for a treat at Monday Night Movie Club at Colony Cinemas on Monday, July 15. This week, the packed audience participated in an interactive screening of the 1985 coming-of-age classic “The Goonies.” Atascadero News was there to join in on all the fun, which included trivia about the movie, props from and about the film, the tossing of Baby Ruths into the audience, prizes, and everyone got printouts of The Astoria Ledger as shown in the film. The cherry on top, other than the movie itself, was a presentation and in-person Q&A with local Jack Johnson, who was a set illustrator for “The Goonies.”
The movie club is run by three friends: Danny Foster, Dan Waybright, and Bryan Bergman. They love film and present it to the audience in a memorable way.
“We love classic movies, so back, I guess, in May, we started out with ‘Star Wars: The Phan-
tom Menace.’ At ‘Phantom Menace,’ we probably had 50-ish or so people show up, which was pretty cool for a Monday night,” said Waybright about the start of the club.
For the last two films, including this one, the movie club has all but sold out the screen hosting it. In fact, the club has started becoming so popular that the theater has started
All proceeds raised go directly to the Charles Paddock
CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com
ATASCADERO — Kids and adults headed to the Charles Paddock Zoo to beat the heat on Saturday, July 13. The evening marked the 21st Annual Ice Cream Zoofari, where participants could sample up to 30 flavors of ice cream while getting wild with the animals at the zoo and all to help the animals.
“It’s so fun. It’s such a fun community feel. Community event,” said the zoo’s brandnew director, Dr. Cynthia Stringfield. “How could you not be happy when you’re walking around getting all these kinds of ice cream?
Everybody is so happy. Everybody’s here with their families.”
Stringfield, who’s been at the zoo a little over two weeks, was at one of the 15 tables throughout the zoo scooping ice cream and meeting Atascadero residents alongside her own daughter.
“I’m so greatful and honored to be here,”
opening up the front two rows of the screen so they can fit everyone. Meaning that over 200 people are rocking up to the theater for the specialty screenings.
“We encourage everyone, you know, when the bad guy comes on the screen, boo the bad guy,” added Waybright. “It’s just a lot of fun. It kind of grew out of something very grassroots. Just a few film nerds, and it’s been a
lot of fun.” Foster answered an SOS from the general manager at Colony Cinemas, Luke Phillips, when he asked for someone to step up and host the Monday Night Movie Club. Foster already had a background in hosting similar screenings back in the Galaxy Theatre days and jumped at the chance to get back into hosting screenings and getting people
she added. “This is a dream place for me. So i just keep pinching myself that I’m actually living in Atascadero and that I’m the director at the zoo.”
There were 30 different types of ice cream for everyone to try and everyone was able to try as many flavors as they wanted during
the two-and-a-half hour event. On top of Stringfield and her daughter, the other tables were manned by city officials, well-known community members, and the event’s sponsors.
“The vendors are — we have the Girl
NORTH COUNTY — Wednesday, July 17, kicked off the county’s main event of the summer — the California Mid-State Fair (CMSF). All 12 days are packed with family fun activities, must-see musical acts and, of course, our favorite fair foods. This year’s fair runs July 17-28 under the theme “Wide Open Spaces.”
President of the Board of Directors for the 16th District Agricultural Association Robert
Boneso welcomes all to the 78th Annual CMSF.
“We are inviting everyone to join us in ‘Wide Open Spaces’ and enjoy 12 fun-filled days of the Fair,” he said. “As always, there is something for everyone. This includes the Opening Day Pageant to see who will be crowned the next California Mid-State Fair Queen, all the exhibits, cruise the midway to find the fair food you have been craving all year, enjoy world-class entertainment on the Grandstand, free Frontier Stage, and our fabulous carnival. We are excited to announce this year our final day will be the return of the Monster Trucks.”
Goonies” illustrator Jack Johnson poses with poster for the movie at Colony Cinemas in Atascadero.
Photo by Rick Evans
City Councilmember Charles Bourbeau (left) and Don Idler (right) serve ice cream at the 21st Annual Ice Cream Zoofari. Photo by Rick Evans.
Jud Porter (right) is shown with his brothers Jim and Jack, with whom he ran The Atascadero News for over two decades. Photo Courtesy of the Porter family
Kids race tractors at the 2023 California Mid-State Fair. Photo by Brittany App
back into the theater.
“I have zero problems doing this. I have a lot of connections, and I want them here. I want this for the audience. I want them to enjoy it,” Foster said. “I want it to be as personal as possible. It’s like having a movie night with 200 of your friends. I can’t fit all of them into my garage, so I’m very thankful this fell into my lap. I have a bigger venue.”
So, how did Foster find out about Jack Johnson and ask him to join in on all the “Goonies” fun? It was actually local Rick Evans who contacted Foster to tell him that he had a framed picture by a local artist who had worked on the film. Foster did some snooping, and two days
later, he was over at Johnson’s house and got a confirmation that Johnson would be happy to appear at the film’s screening.
“What a magnificent dude and very humble,” said Foster of Johnson. The “Goonies” illustrator’s presentation went over parts of the set design that he helped create and also went into his work on other films like “Edward Scissorhands” and “Big Fish,” to name a few of the many.
“I got to design sets before they were built. Most of you guys think of illustrators as storyboard guys, and I do some of that, but most of it was illustrations,” stated Johnson.
The powers that be on “The Goonies” didn’t want to spend the money to build a three-quarters scale ship model,
sense of community.
The Porter Era: A Family Legacy
In 1949, George Porter and Parke Keays purchased The Atascadero News marking the beginning of the Porter Era. George Porter, and later his three sons — Jim, Jud, and Jack — maintained a steadfast commitment to the newspaper.Under their stewardship, they became the longest-serving owners of the newspaper, and the publication thrived, providing reliable local news and fostering a strong
but by using Johnson’s illustration of the captain’s cabin and a few others, they were able to create a few sets for the ship, saving the production money, while also keeping the integrity of the film. Johnson also illustrated a lot of the underground scenes, the bone piano, and more. Though some of the designs changed slightly due to construction, set designers, and art directors, it was Johnson’s sketches that inspired what we saw on screen.
“I got paid very well to do what I enjoy doing and I really consider myself lucky,” added Johnson who is currently working on a book about his artistic adventures in Hollywood.
A great time was had by all as we then watched the muchloved film about a group of kids finding One-Eyed Willy’s “rich
Jud Porter began his journey with The Atascadero News at the young age of 8, starting with humble tasks like sweeping the floors. His parents’ purchase of the paper in 1949 laid the foundation for his lifelong career. Jud’s early involvement instilled in him a deep understanding and passion for local journalism. By 1978, Jud, along with his younger brothers Jim and Jack, took over the reins of the newspaper. As the business manager, Jud played a crucial role in ensuring the paper’s success and continuity. Their
Scouts and Boy Scouts volunteering to help us. Then we also have the Rotary Club out here helping, which is awesome,” said Terrie Banish, the City’s Director of Community Services and Promotions. “The main vendor is The Scoop in Atascadero. They’re on the corner of El Camino Real and Curbaril. They’re amazing, and their ice cream’s served fresh. They started making it on Wednesday.”
The Scoop provided all the ice cream at the Zoofari, and from the looks on everyone’s faces,
Boneso urges the public to head to the north end of the fairgrounds to take a glimpse at the hard work 4-H and FFA exhibitors have put into their livestock and horse shows, and Industrial Art projects.
“We could not put on ‘The Biggest Little Fair Anywhere’ without the overwhelming support of the community, volunteers, and sponsors,” adds Boneso. “The Mid-State Fair Board of Directors and staff would like to thank each, and everyone involved that make the Mid-State Fair the place to be with our friends and community.”
The fair kicked off on Wednesday with the opening day ceremony at the Main Gate and the Miss California Mid-State Fair Pageant on the Frontier Stage. At the time of printing this issue of Atascadero News, the pageant had not occurred yet. But stay up to date on our website for
stuff,” aka treasure, and saving their family’s houses.
“This means something to me, and I want it to mean something to these people, too,” Foster said. “Whatever they take from it, as long as it’s not like, ‘I watched a movie about some kids getting some treasure.’ I want them to feel like they’re in the adventure or behind the scenes with Jack [Johnson] or having fun with us. It’s like an all-encompassing experience.”
The Monday Night Movie Club will be back on Monday, Aug. 5, with a screening of “Dirty Dancing.” Local choreographer and dancer Doriana Sanchez, who appeared in the movie, will also be in attendance. Tickets are $8, and more information can be found at atascadero.themovieexperience. com closer to the screening date.
leadership spanned over two decades until they sold the paper in 2002. The Porter brothers’ dedication and hard work left an enduring legacy, solidifying The Atascadero News as a pillar of the community.
Modern Times: The Mattson Era In 2002, the Porter brothers sold The Atascadero News to News Media Corporation, transitioning the paper into the digital age. In 2019, my husband and I, under 13 Stars Media, acquired The Atascadero News, bringing it back to its roots in down-
their all-you-can-eat, cold treats were a huge hit.
“It’s really important that we’re supporting our businesses here in our city,” added Banish.
The weather, though still warm, chose to lighten up and make it so the ice cream didn’t melt in your hand before you got a chance to eat it.
“It’s a lot of fun, that’s all I can say,” said member of the Atascadero Rotary Club, Don Idler. “To see all the smiles on the faces of not only the kids but their parents. It’s a great community event where people are just enjoying each other and their just enjoying their time. And we got a tremendous break in the weather.”
the winners (atascaderonews. com).
New attractions are hitting the fairgrounds this year. The brand new “Magic Fun!” show will spark children’s imaginations and Megan the Bubbleologist will bring science and art together in displays of bubbles.
Finally, the new competition, “Farmer’s Olympics,” takes place on Tuesday, July 23, at 4:30 p.m. in the Hearst Equestrian Center. The timed events include stick-horse races, tug-of-war, milk bottle hay hurdle relay, wooden spoon egg race, and more.
If you are looking to head to the carnival, Helm & Sons Amusements will also be offering their “Fast Pass” on-site for $30. The carnival opens at noon on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and at 4 p.m. on all other days.
Of course, CMSF has brought back its discount days.
On Seniors Day, Friday, July 19, visitors ages 62 and older get half-off daily admission.
CA 93423 (805) 466-2585 • atascaderonews.com
town Atascadero. Our dedication to preserving the newspaper’s legacy remains unwavering as we continue to print and deliver news that matters to our community. Along with our team, we share a deep sense of service, ensuring the publication stays local and sharing your hometown news.
With the Porters’ legacy in mind, we strive to make both them and our community proud. At the end of the day, this is your paper — our community paper — and we are honored to steward it.
The time and effort the Porters and
Though the zoo’s animals and the ice cream took center stage, Andy Morris was also there performing magic and also DJed the Zoofari. The Central California Coast Garden Railroad Society was also there with some of their model trains.
All proceeds from the Zoofari go to the zoo’s educational and conservation efforts.
“It’s a lot of fun to have all the animals out and showcase our gem in Atascadero,” Banish stated.
Charles Paddock Zoo’s Ice Cream Zoofari will be back next year on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
For Kids Day, Friday, July 26, visitors ages 12 and under are admitted to the Fair for free.
Armed Forces Day, Saturday, July 27, offers visitors with a valid Military ID (active or retired) free admission to the Fair.
Food is always a main event at any fair. This year the CMSF has announced new food that will be available.
Philly Express and DeepFried Cheese Curds
Original Philly Sandwich
– Steak or chicken, bell peppers, onions with provolone cheese
• Buffalo Chicken Philly Sandwich – Chicken, bell peppers onion, provolone cheese in a special buffalo sauce
Garlic Philly Sandwich
– Steak or chicken, bell peppers, onions, and provolone cheese in a garlic
parmesan sauce
• Bacon Chicken Cheddar
Philly Sandwich –Chicken, bacon, and onion
LETTER POLICY
their team devoted to our community are deeply appreciated. Their family’s legacy lives on in the pages of The Atascadero News, and we are committed to honoring their work by keeping the newspaper alive and thriving. As we reflect on Jud Porter’s contributions, we are reminded of the importance of local journalism and the role it plays in shaping our community.
Jud’s celebration of life will take place at the Pavillion on the Lake this Sunday, July 21, from 2 to 4 p.m. All are invited to attend.
with a ranch dressing sauce with melted cheddar cheese
Fire Philly Sandwich –Steak or chicken, jalapeno, bell peppers, onion, and pepper jack cheese with a mango habanero sauce
• Philly Fries – Sauteed steak/chicken, bell peppers and onions and provolone cheese on a bed of fries
Aaron’s Chicken Shack
Chicken & waffles –Chicken tender with 3 large full-size waffles served with a size of syrup
• Chicken sandwich served with our homemade sauce and pickles
Chicken strips and fries
Buffalo chicken wrap
Original Bratwurst
• Dragon Ball Cheese –Succulent meatball and mozzarella on a stick, dipped in batter and coated in panko for an extra crunch and served with the spicy house Dragon Sauce
• Loaded Dragon Bombs
– Deep-fried jalapeno poppers topped with cheese, bacon bits, jalapenos and the spicy house Dragon sauce
Pickle Pops – Mini dill pickle wrapped in Monterey jack cheese and bacon then dipped in batter covered in panko and deep-fried Since 1969, the CMSF has been known to bring in big entertainment to the fairgrounds. You can find the full list of acts from the Michelob ULTRA Concert Series lineup in the Chumash Grandstand Arena to the free shows on the Frontier Stage; find tickets and showtimes at midstatefair.com. Also head over to the Mission Square Stage, Island Stage, and La Cantina to enjoy live music by local artists each day of the Fair.
If you haven’t been before, the Annual Pancake Breakfast in Paso Robles Downtown City Park is on Thursday, July 25, from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. Breakfast includes sausage,
pancakes, scrambled eggs, orange juice, and coffee. It is free to the public to thank the community for their support and patience during the CMSF, which brings in thousands from around the state. California Mid-State Fair CEO Colleen Bojorquez said in her welcome letter, “Whether you are here to enjoy shopping, stellar entertainment, eat wonderful food, watch livestock or equestrian shows, experience the various exhibits, the thrill of the carnival, or simply wander the beautiful grounds, our staff, Board of Directors, and numerous volunteers have worked diligently to bring you the best of our community. It is with heartfelt thanks for the dedication of all who have enabled us to be the great success that we are in the industry.”
Throughout the CMSF, Atascadero News will be covering all the big events celebrating our community. Follow us at atascaderonews.com for all of your CMSF coverage.
GOVERNMENT CONTACTS
Hundreds of people came out for the 21st Annual Ice Cream Zoofari. Photo by Rick Evans.
(From left) Monday Night Movie Club Host Danny Foster, “The Goonies” illustrator Jack Johnson, and co-host Bryan Bergman are shown at a special screening of the movie at Colony Cinemas. Photo by Rick Evans
LOCAL NEWS
Good News • Real News • Your Hometown News
President George W. Bush, was the last known
By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@atascaderonews.com
NATIONAL
— It was a failed assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump that gripped the nation on Saturday night, July 13. During a political campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a 20-year-old shooter failed in his attempt to kill the former president and current presidential candidate — but he did succeed in killing one innocent bystander sitting in the crowd that evening.
“I would like to start by extending my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Corey Comperatore, who was killed during the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump’s life in Butler, Pennsylvania, Saturday, as well as those who were injured during this senseless act of violence,” said U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle in a statement following the event.
“Secret Service personnel on the ground moved quickly during the incident, with our counter sniper team neutralizing the shooter and our agents implementing protective measures to ensure the safety of former President Donald Trump.”
According to an article from AP News, two more were injured during the shooting: David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, both towns outside Pittsburgh. Each man was listed in stable condition Sunday.
Right before the incident, Trump spoke vigorously to the crowd; when gunshots rang, his hand went immediately to his right ear before Secret Service members jumped onto the former president, covering him and taking him to the ground until shots finished.
When Trump rose and as Secret Service members rushed him out of the rally and into a black SUV, he pumped his fist, blood splattered on his face, and mouthed to the crowed, “Fight!” He was rushed to a hospital but was determined early on to be
in stable condition.
The shooter, who was soon killed by Secret Service members following the mayhem, was identified as Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. He reportedly used an AR-15 that belonged to his father.
Many questions still surround the shooter’s motives and how the incident transpired — questions have been surrounding the integrity of the Secret Service meant to protect the former president as witnesses have now come forward saying they tried to warn law enforcement they saw the shooter on the roof. The shooting is now under investigation by the FBI.
“I urge everyone — everyone, please, don’t make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations,”
said President Joe Biden from the White House on Sunday. “Let the FBI do their job, and their partner agencies do their job. I’ve instructed
that this investigation be thorough and swift.”
According to reports, some rally spectators noticed Crooks acting strangely and then climbing onto a roof of the nearby building. A local police officer was hoisted onto the edge of the roof only to suddenly drop back down when Crooks turned to point the rifle at him just and then turned back to his main target at the rally.
In her statement following the shooting, Cheatle said, “The incident in Pennsylvania has understandably led to questions about potential updates or changes to the security for the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. The U.S. Secret Service, in conjunction with our federal, state, and local law enforcement and public safety partners, designs operational security plans for National Special Security Events (NSSE) to be dynamic in
order to respond to a kinetic security environment and the most up-todate intelligence from our partners.”
Paso Robles Press and Atascadero News reached out to both the San Luis Obispo County Republican Party (SLOCRP) and Democratic Party (SLOCDP) chairmen for their reaction to the events of July 13.
SLOCRP Chair Randall Jordan has served as the party’s chairman since 2017. He recalls the unfolding events of July 13, similar to that of when President Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.
“The assassination attempt — just like everyone else that is looking for change and hoping and praying for our President Trump to be re-elected, was scary. That’s the only word I can use. When it happened, I was in my car, and they cut into the news programming to announce it.
“And I just had the fear that we
Santa Ynez Valley keeping an eye on the Lake Fire
Blaze that started July 5 at Zaca Lake has spread to over 38,000 acres; most evacuation orders lifted as of Monday
By MIKE CHALDU For Atascadero News/Paso Robles Press
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — Fire crews have made progress over the weekend on a brush fire that has burned for nearly two weeks on the northern edge of the Santa Ynez Valley.
Dubbed the Lake Fire, the blaze was first reported Friday, July 5, and has grown to 38,653 acres and is at 38 percent containment, according to the latest incident update by Cal Fire (fire.ca.gov/incidents/2024/7/5/lake-fire) at 7:12 a.m. Tuesday, July 16.
After growing from its starting point near Zaca Lake, the fire was split into a North and South Zone for crews as it expanded in acreage and personnel. The fire remains under Unified Command, with two fire camps to support firefighting efforts, with 3,267 personnel currently assigned to fight the fire. In addition to the personnel, multiple agencies have a total of 12 helicopters, 220 engines, 59 dozers 43 water tenders, and 106 crews assigned to the blaze.
A cause for the fire has not yet been determined, but the investigation continues.
Several evacuation orders were issued since the fire began, mostly in remote areas, but most have been canceled as of July 16.
The area the fire originated from is approximately 15 miles north of Los Olivos and approximately 20 miles east of Los Alamos. Highway 154, which ends at Highway 101 near Los Alamos is still open, and there were no indications it was threatened by the fire.
The blaze had also gotten close to the former
Neverland Ranch, which was Michael Jackson’s residence, and the Midland and SYV Family schools nearby, but none were believed to be in danger.
The fire was apparent to residents, visitors, and businesses Thursday, July 11, in Los Olivos, the nearest town to the fire, but there had been no evacuation warnings according to residents, although information has been posted to a portable bulletin board sitting on the corner of Grand Avenue and Alamo Pintado Avenue.
The same bulletin boards were also posted in towns around the Valley, including Solvang and Santa Ynez.
“We can see the smoke and the firefighters around town, but we haven’t had any warnings yet,” said a Los Olivos resident who was checking out the information on the board and chose not to be identified. “I’m just going about my day like everyone else here. I guess I’m just like Nero — fiddling while the area burns.”
Over at the Firestone Walker Brewing Company, two patrons at the bar said they haven’t gotten any evacuation warnings, but it has affected their work.
Terry Albrecht, who is a contractor said he had equipment he couldn’t get to because its stored in Woodstock, one of the evacuation areas.
“I can’t get up there to get my tools because that’s the fire area,” he said. “So we’re just taking it easy here.”
Albrecht, who lives in Buellton, and his co-worker Tom Reviea, of Los Olivos, said they haven’t heard any indications of an evacuation.
“I think we’ll be fine,” Reviea said. “They have trees and grass that burn efficiently, but no chap arral, which tends to be a bigger problem with fires like that.”
according to employee Sherri Bjorklund.
“We’ve had our business practically cut in half,” Bjorklund said. “However, the firefighters have been really good at updating us on conditions, and the info they gave us today looked good as far as them making progress.”
The firefighting efforts are under the Unified Command with California Complex Incident Management Team 13, led by Incident Commander Joshua Boehm, and including USFS Los Padres National Forest, Santa Barbara County Fire and Cal Fire, according
weren’t being told everything and that the minor blood and basically what happened with the being shot in the ear was only the tip of the iceberg as to what really happened to President Trump. So I was just very fearful that just like with President [Ronald] Reagan, we didn’t really know all the truth as to how serious his injuries were until much later.
“I am just shocked and appalled. I can’t say that I’m surprised. There’s so much hate out there for President Trump that I felt that something was going to happen, and it did happen.
“The folks that are called conservatives or right-wing nationalists or whatever we’re called these days, we are supposed to be the intolerant ones, and we would never wish this on anyone. There’s just a lot of hate. Seems like a lot of hate and a lot of bad blood on the other side towards anyone that has an opposing position to them.
“So, I thank God, and I think it was a divine intervention that caused President Trump to turn his head. And I am so grateful that he came through this okay.
“We’ll see how it turns out in the election. I still think that we have a very big problem in this country, in this county with voting being true and the election process being transparent and truthful.”
SLOCDP Chair Tom Fulks shared the following response to the assassination attempt:
“The San Luis Obispo County Democratic Party condemns unconditionally this shocking act of violence against not just former President Trump, but against all Americans who believe ballots are more powerful than bullets.
“Such despicable behavior has no place in a civilized world. We grieve for those who lost their loved one, and hold the injured in our thoughts and prayers. No matter our background, zip code, or political party, most of us believe violence has no
to LPNF officials. Cooperators working on this incident include Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department, Santa Barbara Office of Emergency Management, Santa Barbara County Department of Public Works, the Chumash Fire Department, the California Highway Patrol, and California Office of Emergency Services.
More information on the fire and evacuations can be found at fire.ca.gov/incidents/2024/7/5/ lake-fire or by calling the Santa Barbara County Call Center at (833) 688-5551.
Although evacuations haven’t been ordered, the fire is affecting business at Firestone Walker,
Former President Donald Trump and 2024 presidential candidate yells “Fight” while being rushed off stage by Secret Service after being shot at during a rally in Butler, PA. Photo by Associated Press
NEWS BRIEFS
PASO ROBLES
California Mid-State Fair offering free shuttles to the fairgrounds
The California Mid-State Fair is offering patrons the opportunity to park off-site and then catch a free ride to the Fair.
Look for the SLO Safe Ride shuttles, operating each day of the fair. The Paso Robles Event Center has very limited on-site parking options, and the free shuttle program is a great way to save time and money.
Hours of operation:
• Mondays — Thursdays: 4 p.m. to Midnight
• Fridays — Sundays: Noon to Midnight
• Shuttle locations for pick-up and drop-off:
Albertsons Parking Lot @ City Bus Stop City Hall @ 10th/Spring
• Lowe’s Hardware @ Main Parking Lot
The 2024 California Mid-State Fair runs July 17-28 and this year’s theme is “Wide Open Spaces!”
Salinas River fire believed to be human-caused
On Saturday, July 13, at approximately 7:07 p.m., Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services (PRFES) responded to a vegetation fire in the riverbed adjacent to Highway 101 and Highway 46 East.
In a press release from PRFES, first arriving firefighters found a column of smoke developing in the middle of the Salinas River corridor. Thick, overgrown vegetation made access difficult for firefighters attacking the fire. Once firefighters safely gained access, they were able to contain the fire to one-fourth of an acre.
Three fire engines and one battalion chief from Paso Robles responded. Under the city’s automatic aid agreements, two fire engines, one Dozer, one hand crew, and one battalion chief from Cal Fire/SLO County also responded.Additionally, one fire engine from Atascadero responded. In total, 27 firefighters were needed to extinguish the blaze.
Paso Robles Police Department assisted in providing the initial location of the fire and traffic control. Investigation of the fire indicates it was humancaused. A responsible party was not located at the time of the initial investigation.
17th Street road improvements to begin soon with traffic detours
The city’s upcoming project for the 17th Street Road
Improvements will begin soon. These improvements will include repairing and paving the surface of 17th Street from Chestnut to Spring Street.
Although the road is to remain open during this phase, there will be times when traffic will be detoured around the construction zone of a specific area and at a specific time. Motorists should pay attention to all traffic control measures in place so that they can note where and when the detours are occurring, as they will change as the work progresses.
Vegetation fire stopped on Creston Road
On Monday, July 8, at approximately 6 p.m., Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services, along with Cal Fire/ San Luis Obispo County Fire, responded to a report of a vegetation fire in the 2900 block of Creston Road in Paso Robles.
Firefighters arrived within four minutes and found a 1-acre wind-driven vegetation fire burning in light grass. Firefighters were able to stop the forward progress of the fire at 52 acres with minor damage to cellular infrastructure and no damage to any structures.
Three fire engines, a battalion chief, deputy fire chief, and fire chief from Paso Robles responded. As part of the city’s mutual threat zone agreement, seven fire engines, two dozers, one water tender, three crews, three air tankers, one helicopter, one air attack, and two battalion chiefs responded from Cal Fire. Additional assistance was provided by both Paso Robles Police Department and San Luis County Sheriff’s department.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
ATASCADERO
Atascadero Chamber partners with California Paid Family Leave Grant program
The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its partnership with the California Paid Family Leave Grant. This initiative is designed to provide crucial financial support to small businesses, offering grants up to $2,000 per employee on paid family leave.
California Paid Family Leave Program (CPFLG) allows eligible small businesses in California with one to 100 employees with at least one employee utilizing the California Paid Family Leave program to apply for grants up to $2,000
per employee to offset the increased cost associated with the employee out on leave.
California Paid Family Leave Program allows California workers to take paid leave to bond with a new child (through birth, adoption, or foster care) to care for a seriously ill family member or to participate in a qualifying event because of a family member’s military deployment.
Businesses impacted by California Paid Family Leave Program will have increased costs, such to upskill existing staff to cover the duties of the employee on California Paid Family Leave; hiring and training additional staff to cover the duties of the employee, marketing, recruitment, and other reasonable foreseeable training costs.
As businesses continue to navigate the challenges posed by workforce shortages and economic pressures, this collaboration aims to ease the burden on local entrepreneurs by ensuring they have the necessary resources to maintain operations while supporting their employees’ family needs.
For more information, eligibility details, and to apply, visit CaliforniaPFL.com
Portion of West Mall to become a one-way street West Mall from Palma Avenue to El Camino Real will become a one-way street on Tuesday, July 16. This conversion from a two-way street is part of the current construction for the El Camino Real (ECR) Downtown Safety and Parking Enhancements Project to improve public safety, foster downtown vitality, and add 100+ free parking spaces to create a true downtown experience. With the transition to a one-way street, traffic circulation on West Mall will complement East Mall, which is also a one-way street (opposite direction) that features both angled and parallel parking. Both streets act as important connectionsto Sunken Gardens, City Hall, and the Atascadero Middle School.
Signage will be installed to inform motorists of the change.
The parking layout will create 28 new angled parking spaces next to Sunken Gardens while maintaining 13 parallel spaces adjacent to businesses, resulting in 12 additional parking spaces. A thorough traffic analysis was performed during project development that supports converting this portion of West Mall to a one-way street.
The ECR Project will deliver
the following improvements and benefits to a 0.6-mile stretch of El Camino Real between Highway 41 and Rosario Avenue: Limit traffic to one lane each direction to improve safety, increase parking, and enhance the Downtown experience
• Additional crosswalks with higher visibility
• A full overhead signalized pedestrian crossing at East Mall to expand safety
Over 100 new free parking spaces, including ADA-accessible spaces
• ADA accessibility improvements, including new driveways and sidewalks
Over 25 new street trees for shade and aesthetics
In-ground planters along a center median with potted planters along the sidewalk
• Hanging pendant lights and street lights throughout the project area
Rain garden planters to capture and treat stormwater runoff
Designated loading zones for deliveries, drop-offs, and pickups
The primary goal of The ECR Project is to improve public safety. The enhancements will provide a positive impact by reducing vehicle speed, improving visibility for roadway users, expanding walkability, and accommodating multi-modal transportation.
The project is also designed to boost economic development. Over the past five-plus years, Atascadero has experienced significant development downtown, and construction of this project is anticipated to accelerate the growth of the downtown core. The project’s improvements will enhance aesthetics and create a safer, easier-to-access area that increases foot traffic and business growth.
Community members can sign up for construction news by visiting Atascadero.org/ News-List. For more information about The ECR Project and to stay informed on project construction, please visit Atascadero.org/ECRProject
Atascadero Library offers fun in August
The Atascadero Library is pleased to announce its new programming for August.
Children’s programs include three storytimes for kids five and under. Bilingual Storytime will be on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m., Storytime at Sunken Gardens is on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m., and English Storytime
will be on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. There kids will experience stories, songs, and more fun.
A visit from Charles Paddock Zoo, where kids can get up close and personal with animals from Atascadero’s Charles Paddock Zoo will take place on Friday, Aug. 9, at 1 p.m.
Lego Club, with all it’s Lego-building fun, will take place on Saturday, Aug. 17, at 2 p.m. Lego Club is for kids aged 5-12. Registration is required. Teens aged 10-17 are invited to join the library for an afternoon making perler bead keychains on Friday, Aug 30, at 2:30 p.m.
Contact Sally LaPorte at slaporte@slolibrary.org or (805) 461-6163 for more information on children and teen programming.
The Transition Mental Health Association (TMHA) will be at the library on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Get connected with primary care, recovery, clothing, food, Medicare, shelter, mental health, showers, health insurance, and more. No appointment is needed.
Adults can also head to the library to join UC Master perservers and learn how to make their own raspberry chocolate jam. Participants also get to take their jam home. The workshop will take place on Thursday, Aug. 1, at 2 p.m., and registration is required.
Read-A-Latte Book Group will be meeting on Saturday, Aug. 17, at 10:30 a.m. to discuss “The Island of Sea Women” by Lisa See. Coffee and tea will be provided.
Library patrons of all ages are invited to attend the Climate Change Film Festival on Tuesday, Aug. 17, from 3 to 5 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 31, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Short films on climate change will be shown. For more information on adult programming, contact Melanie Bales at mbales@slolibrary.org or (805) 461-6162.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
Veteran Resource Fair in Nipomo supports local veterans
The County of San Luis Obispo Veterans Services Office, in collaboration with Pacific Coast Mortgage Group, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association Chapter 33-11, and VFW Chapter 10978 Nipomo, is proud to announce a Veteran Resource Fair scheduled for Saturday, July 13. This event will be held at the Nipomo VFW located at 40 S. Thompson Ave., Nipomo.
The Veteran Resource Fair aims to provide essential services and support to veterans in the Nipomo community and surrounding areas. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., attendees can connect with various organizations and agencies offering resources such as VA disability and health benefits, financial assistance, home-buying resources, and much more provided by local and national nonprofits.
“We are honored to host this event alongside our community partners to ensure our local veterans have access to the support and resources they deserve, and we hope that doing these veteran resource fairs will bring our veteran community together. Our goal is to reach all veterans where they are at in life,” said Kendra Scott, outreach coordinator for the County of San Luis Obispo Veterans Services Office.
In addition to the valuable
services and information, the fair will feature a tri-tip sandwich lunch provided free of charge to veterans and their families. For other attendees, tri-tip sandwich lunches will cost $10 each. This initiative is part of the event’s effort to provide practical support and a sense of community to all participants.
The fair is made possible thanks to Robert Tolan’s generous sponsorship. Tolan’s commitment to supporting veterans is well-known throughout the region.
In addition to resource booths and refreshments, there will be opportunities to network with fellow veterans and community members. Admission to the fair is free, and all veterans, active-duty service members, and their families are encouraged to attend.
For more information about the Veteran Resource Fair, please get in touch with Kendra Scott at (805) 781-5766 or kescott@ co.slo.ca.us
Two arrested for felony grand theft after being caught stealing avocados in Nipomo
Two were arrested on felony grand theft charges after they were caught stealing avocados on a ranch in Nipomo. On July 11, the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Deputies and members of the Sheriff’s Rural Crime Unit responded to a report of two men who were actively stealing avocados from a ranch in rural Nipomo.
According to a press release from the Sheriff’s Office, when deputies arrived on scene, they were able to locate the suspects along with approximately 500 pounds of stolen avocados. The avocados were estimated to be worth between $3,000 to $5,000. Theft of avocados from this ranch have been an ongoing issue.
The suspects were arrested and booked into County Jail. Wilson Carrero, 38, of Santa Maria was arrested for felony grand theft along with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance. Baltazar Garcia, 40, of Santa Maria was arrested for felony grand theft.
If you’ve been the victim of a rural crime, contact the Sheriff’s Office at (805) 781-4550.
New livestream video of wild rattlesnake den now available as part of Cal Poly project Cal Poly rattlesnake researchers have installed a new camera system at a large den, or “megaden,” of rattlesnakes in Colorado that livestreams footage to YouTube. The den is a rare habitat attracting hundreds of rattlesnakes because of its geologic features that provide snakes with hiding places and shelter from the elements.
The public can tune in anytime to RattleCam.org to watch dozens of pregnant rattlesnakes basking, interacting, and, later this summer, caring for their pups. Viewers can watch closely to witness rare events such as predators visiting the den attempting to attack the rattlesnakes and the mass emergence of thirsty snakes to drink raindrops collected on their coiled bodies. The best times to watch are in the morning and early evening. The den is in a remote, undisclosed location on private land in northern Colorado. The hightech, solar-powered camera system is funded largely by donations. The technology was
OGGeorge was born in Bakersfield to Lucille Marquez and Gregg Galvan on December 7, 1930, and spent most of his youth being raised by his grandparents, Josephina and Felipe Marquez. When Lucille married his stepfather, Carl Ash, he moved in with them and attended Wasco High School.
George joined the Marine Corps in 1948 and spent almost 24 years serving his country proudly. As a Marine, George served as an infantryman, drill instructor, military police officer, and
devastated by this news.
recruiter. He was part of the first Marines to land in Chu Lai, Vietnam, in 1965, and he was wounded by a landmine, which earned him a Purple Heart. He returned to the US to recover and open a recruiting office in San Luis Obispo. He returned to Vietnam for a second time in 1968. He retired in 1972 and had a second career working for the SLO County Sheriff’s Department for almost 19 years. He also did a brief stint at Atascadero State Hospital as an investigator.
George had a strong
commitment to his adopted home of San Luis Obispo County. He was appointed to the SLO County Fair Board by Governor George Deukmejian and then by Governor Pete Wilson. He also served as a citizen advisor for the California Men’s Colony on the Grand Jury and oversaw a 4-H leadership program. He was appointed as a Commissioner of the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle program. George served on the Atascadero Unified School District Board for 14 years, and after his wife died
in 2017, he took over her seat on the SLO County Board of Education. One of his greatest achievements was getting his BA in Administration of Justice from Sacramento State in the early 90s.
George met his wife, Gaye, in 1961, who also served in the Marine Corps. They were married for almost 53 years until her death in 2017. George is survived by his daughter Gail and son-in-law Dave; son Greg and daughter-in-law Kilce; grandsons Gregory and Zach; and granddaughter
Mia. He was preceded in death by his half-brother Charles Ash, Jr. George will be buried with his wife at Arlington National Cemetery on September 18, 2024. A service is being planned for his family and friends in San Luis Obispo for early fall. At the family’s request, in lieu of flowers, please donate in his name to the Grizzly Youth Academy, 721 Mendocino Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA 93495 or https://www.grizzlyyouthacademy.org/donate/
n December 1, 2023, Matthew William Boriack suddenly passed away in rural Paso Robles, CA. Due to his age and the suddenness of this, his family and friends were
In Loving Memory
MATTHEW W. BORIACK 1995-2023 MERRILL
Merrill Bruce “Chip” Kurtzman, 78, of Paso Robles, California, passed away on June 27, 2024. Born on November 11, 1945, in Philadelphia,
CMatt was born at Twin Cities Community Hospital on June 18, 1995, which happened to be Father’s Day. He spent his entire life in rural Paso Robles and attended Templeton schools, graduating from Templeton Independent Studies in 2013. Matt worked at the chain hardware stores in customer service, where he was much appreciated due to his strong work ethic. He was also very good at helping the customers. Matt was a voracious reader who loved every bit of information he could get his hands on. He was an excellent speller and reader and
Pennsylvania, he was a beloved figure in his community and a true “mensch.” Chip dedicated his life to the service of OPothers, as a Special Education Teacher and through charitable acts of service within his community.
Chip served honorably in the United States Navy for four years, where he developed a deep sense of duty that he carried throughout his life. After his military service, he pursued his passion for education, earning a BA from Cal State Los Angeles and a Masters in Education from Cal State Northridge. He touched many lives through
hief Warrant Officer 4 William “Dennis” Mahoney passed away on July 3, 2024, in Templeton, California. He was 87 years old. His Army National Guard career lasted over 42 years. He began his career by joining ROTC in high school in 1954, and during college, he joined the Army National Guard. He was active until February 1997. Stationed at the Nike Missile site at Pacifica, California until 1975, transferred to MATES Camp Roberts and the 351st Service & Supply Co. at Camp San Luis Obispo. In 1993, reactivated for Operation Desert Storm, Desert Freedom & Iraqi Freedom as well as domestic responses. Internationally, he was part of the military exercises Freedom Shield in South Korea and exercises in Italy. Dennis was a loving son of Willie and Vi Mahoney.
won awards in these subjects at school. He was also very adept at typing. Matt loved critters and pets from an early age, and his household was never without an animal. In 2022, Matt found a starving, feral, and alone 4-week-old kitten, bringing her home and thereby saving her life. Matt had the ability to entertain you with his silly songs and frightening faces, and he didn’t stop doing it, even once he grew up.
A celebration of Life was held on April 13, with a beautiful dove release. Matt will be remembered as a loving son, friend, cousin, and nephew.
his dedication to teaching and his devotion as a husband, father, and grandfather.
Chip was an active member of Temple Beth Am in Los Angeles and Congregation Ohr Tzafon in Atascadero, where he found spiritual fulfillment and community.
Chip’s hobbies included music, poetry, horseback riding, running, and reading, activities that reflected his love for adventure and continuous learning. He was known for his loving, kind, and generous spirit, always ready to lend a hand or offer a word of peace.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; chil
Brother to David, father to Debi, Karen & Dale, and grandfather to Nicole, Beau, Ben, Josh, Sophia, Katya, Maddy, and Sam. Great grandfather to CeCe.
An avid sports fan, especially San Francisco teams. He also considered himself an amateur winemaker and loved to BBQ with his family and friends. He will be missed.
Services were held on July 15, 2024, at Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home, 1703 Spring St Paso Robles, CA 93446, followed by Honor Guard burial at Paso Robles District Cemetery, 45 Nacimiento Rd Paso Robles, CA.
Memorial donations can be made to an animal rescue of your choice or a fentanyl awareness program.
Matt was preceded in death by his father, Darren E. Boriack, grandparents Barbara Guy, Jeanne Boriack, and Fred and Elizabeth Ann Robinson. Matt is survived by his mother, Sandra, of rural Paso Robles, grandfather William, of Atascadero, and his favorite cousin, Patti, as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Matt will be deeply missed by those who knew him. Matt lived his life just trying to be a good person. Matt flies free forever now.
dren, Kimberly, Tom, and Joey; sister, Sheri; and grandchildren, Etai, Ayelet, and Arianna. He was preceded in death by his parents, Florence and Herman Kurtzman.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Jewish National Fund USA, Israel Resilience Campaign, and/or Breakthrough T1D. org/donate to offer hope to the millions of people who face type 1 diabetes (T1D). This honors Chip’s commitment to philanthropy and deep connection to his heritage.
Chip’s legacy of kindness, education, and service will be remembered by all who knew him.
“DJ” LEWIS 1944-2024
Dallis “D.J.” Lewis, age 80, of Paso Robles, departed from this life on June 5, 2024. He was a very outgoing person who never knew a stranger.
For over 40 years, he was wellknown for his fine craftsmanship in the construction trade. His clients were very loyal to him and, if necessary, were even willing to wait for extended periods of time until he was available for their remodeling projects.
He always looked forward to visits with his son, Dallis M. Lewis, and daughter-in-law, Cynnde Lewis, as well as his grandchildren, Austin, Ashlee, and Autumn.
Over the past three years, when his health permitted, he enjoyed visiting Real Life Church, where his son pastors in Tehachapi.
Friends and family are invited to an informal graveside memorial at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 25.The location will be Templeton Cemetery, 100 Templeton Cemetery Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446.
Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.
ROBERT “BOB” FERNAMBURG, 84, of Arroyo Grande passed away on June 27th 2024. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of
242261 04:31 — Benito Salinasrodriguez, was on view arrest on the 26900 block of Union Rd for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA
[11364(A)H&S], Case no. 242262 ATASCADERO POLICE DEPARTMENT
JULY 08, 2024 2:12 — Darrick Friedrichsen, was arrested on the 6700 block of El Camino Real for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA
[11364(A)H&S],
[243(E)(1)PC], Case no.
eorge E. Galvan of Atascadero, California, passed away at age 93 on June 15, 2024.
DALLIS
VERN GROAT, 90, of Pismo Beach passed away on June 10th 2024.
Assassination attempt brings political divide to a head
Iam sitting here organizing my thoughts around the horrendous attack upon former President Donald Trump on Saturday. Don [Schmitz] and I agreed that we ought to comment upon this instead of the topic we originally agreed to, so you will have to wait another two weeks on that one. I trust we can agree on one thing: Namely, we have to dial back on the division that has gripped this nation and it is the responsibility of our leaders on both sides of the aisle to reduce the ugly demeanor that fosters such division.
Just off the top, I must say that as a Catholic kid growing up in Philly, attending Catholic school and as an altar boy when the mass was conducted in Latin, the assassination of JFK struck very hard in my household and neighborhood.
As precocious 10-year olds, I and my buddies were quite confused for the extra days off, but the nonstop television coverage brought everything into clearer and mesmerizing focus: Namely a certain air of unreality and sadness.
That was my impression of the early years in the 1960s. The later years, particularly 1968, brought considerable misery as we lost MLK and RFK. Violence has no business interfering in our desires to advance society and make this world a better place.
All we are saying, is give peace a chance! For God’s sake citizens of the world, life is too precious, too demand-
ing, and yes, too short to spend time trying to impress upon each other the often mistaken notion that instead of working things out, listening to each other, defending positions, we should contemplate resorting to violence.
We have become so wrapped up in our blankets of insecurity that we do not allow our positions to be moderated or to accept that others may actually have good ideas. We view with disdain compromise, reason, open-mindedness, and the God-forsaken notion that others may have ideas that allow for both discussion and implementation and encourage actual progress. It is the essence of this magnificent system of democratic governance that protects us against tyranny and authoritarianism.
The temper of the argumentative nature of our current society is much too high and accomplishes little other than a festering cesspool of I win, you lose, I’m right and you’re wrong, I have the answer and you are the problem. This simplistic paradigm neither has the atmosphere nor the bandwidth for constructive problem solving. If we do not realize the importance of involving others with differing viewpoints into discussions of how to best benefit the society at large, we will end up segregated behind impenetrable walls of disillusionment and distrust. I have a great deal of trouble with core elements of what masquerades as current Republican political orthodoxy today; however, I am willing to engage in a lengthy and wide-ranging dialogue over how to overcome differences and seek compromise. But in order to do such a thing requires mutual trust and respect for differences. In all my years of political posturing and policy-making I have never insulted differences and/or beliefs so long as such accommodation was reciprocated. I believe this is
The
The next time authorities issue a smoke advisory telling residents of California areas previously unaffected by wildfires to stay inside with closed windows and doors until a smoke cloud passes or dissipates, do it.
That’s the essential message of an authoritative new study that appeared just as this year’s fire season got started, the report indicating death tolls from smoke clouds loosed by past blazes have been exponentially higher than previously reported. In fact, the number directly or
indirectly killed so far by smoke turns out to be far higher than fatalities from the flames themselves. It’s high enough to match almost precisely the human costs of illicit fentanyl consumption. One difference: the state now offers antidotes for fentanyl poisoning, but there is no easy remedy for the unseen and previously unattributed toll of California’s many fires.
Fentanyl deaths have made lurid headlines, but smoke-related maladies and deaths are sneaking up on Californians who usually regard inhaling smoke as a mere nuisance.
It turns out the health effects of wildfires are far worse than that.
So says the report just published in the journal ScienceAdvances, published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, where UCLA researchers found at least 52,000 persons died over
required now in the worst way. So now we sit back and ponder the extent to which violence plays such a pivotal role in how we proceed into the future. Violence is no stranger to history, yet the attempt on Trump’s life this past weekend in Butler, Pennsylvania, raises the temperature considerably. It reminds me, unfortunately, of my younger years when violence that appeared to be beyond belief struck against a society struggling to find itself.
The violence that accompanied Sept. 6 quite likely was the closest thing to an insurrection that the nation has ever seen. It was an atrocity that simply cannot be accepted in the world’s most democratic society. Similarly, let this assassination attempt upon the former president stand as an unacceptable act that defies everything that both parties stand for. Both candidates could and should agree together that each should be judged by the tenets of their respective platforms for moving the country forward.
Those who disagree with how either one wishes to move the nation forward can resolve their disagreement through the ballot box, not through the barrel of a gun. Violence is not the answer. We hopefully have advanced past the point where the gun and or the sword shall dictate who is the most formidable leader. It is incumbent upon all of us to learn how to exist in a world where differences and diversity can render positive outcomes as long as there is mutual respect for our brothers and sisters. Violence must not be allowed to infect our ability to agree to disagree.
Lance Simmens is an independent columnist for Atascadero News / Paso Robles Press, he alongside Don Schmitz write a bi-weekly column on national topics from the perspective of their political leanings. You can forward any comments you have to editor@13starsmedia.com.
a very recent 11-year period from effects of tiny particulate matter left behind in their lungs after inhaling wildfire smoke (science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv. adl1252).
That’s an average of almost 5,000 persons per year felled by after-effects of fires started by lightning, arsonists, and criminally negligent utility companies, which have already been forced to pay more than $15 billion for physical damages from blazes caused by their faulty equipment.
The UCLA research, from the Luskin Center for Innovation in the school’s Environmental Health Sciences department raises the suspicion that recent deaths may have been even more numerous than the report indicates, because it covers only the years 2008 through 2018, ending just as the severe wildfire epidemic of 2017 to 2022 was getting started.
“It’s just a major issue at the
Aassassin tried to kill the front-running presidential candidate Donald Trump, who turned to read from a screen milliseconds before the rifle round which grazed him would have splattered his brains across the stage. Such a scene would have thrilled the sadistic fantasies of comedian Kathy Griffin; you remember her, she took a video in 2017 holding up a mock-severed head of President Trump dripping fake blood. Ah, those celebrities.
Mickey Rourke wanted to beat Trump with a bat, Madonna fantasized about blowing up the White House, and actor/chef Anthony Bourdain said he would like to serve Trump the poison hemlock. Entertainers aside, our media has fed the fire, not just on the opinion page, but the front page. In 2016, five Washington Post writers explicitly compared Trump to Hitler.
Last January, The New Yorker on its cover page featured a cartoon of Trump goose-stepping with a Nazi salute. Weeks ago, the LA Times published an election-season news report headlined “Trump and GOP repeatedly echo Nazi and far-right ideology as they aim to retake White House.” MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow commented on Trump’s planned camps to round up and deport the millions of illegal aliens Biden has allowed into the country, stating, “For that matter, what convinces you that these massive camps he’s planning are only for migrants? So, yes, I’m worried about me — but only as much as I’m worried
about all of us.”
Sadly, many elected Democrats have also incessantly compared Trump and Republicans to Hitler and Nazis.
When rioters during the Antifa/ BLM riots in 2020 repeatedly tried to burn down the federal courthouse in Portland, Trump sent federal law enforcement agents to protect the building. Nancy Pelosi replied, “The use of stormtroopers under the guise of law and order is a tactic that is not appropriate to our country in any way.”
Rep. Alexandria OcasioCortez likened the border detention facilities (which were originally created under President Barack Obama) as “Nazi concentration camps.” Predictably, this election cycle has brought everything to a rolling boil. In Biden’s creepy speech under red lights at Independence Hall in 2022, which was beyond divisive and polarizing, he called MAGA Republicans fascists, and accused them of trying to tear down democracy. Bernie Sanders, and many Democrats, have stated that if Trump wins, it will be the end of democracy.
Remember when radical leftist James Hodgkinson ambushed a group of Republican lawmakers at a baseball practice in 2017, stating he wanted to kill as many Republicans as he could? Calls went out at that time for Democrats to tone down the rhetoric, but to no avail. America has been experiencing increasing levels of political violence, starting with the riots in 2016 when Trump was elected, the baseball field shootings in 2017, the Antifa/BLM riots in 2020, to the Jan. 6 riot in 2021. Trump also has said many inflammatory things. Both sides are asserting that the other is destroying the country, but whereas the Republicans claim the Democrats policies are disastrous (fair game), Democrats focus on Trump pinning on him the Nazi label, which is insanity. It was righteous for the brave souls who in 16 separate plots tried to assassinate Hitler, and
they are today considered heroes. How is it then that anyone is shocked when someone tries to assassinate Trump?
Anecdotally, I have personally heard people say for years they would, without hesitation, murder him, and recently have seen social media posts wishing the gunman had a better aim. In a national address President Biden urged Americans to reject political violence, stating, “There is no place in America for this kind of violence — for any violence. Ever. Period. No exception. We can’t allow this violence to be normalized.” Wonderful words, but you can’t work for years trying to convince half the country that your political opponent is a fascist tyrant about to destroy the Republic, then act shocked when violence erupts. It’s commensurate to building a large bonfire, then acting surprised when it spreads into the town causing death and destruction.
I think the assassination attempt has shocked most mainstream Democrats along with the rest of us, and I hope we can all agree with House Speaker Mike Johnson who stated, “We’ve got to turn the temperature down in this country. We need leaders of all parties, on both sides, to call that out and make sure that happens so that we can go forward and maintain our free society that we all are blessed to have.”
The MAGA movement is in a rage, believing the left is desperate, having failed to take down their candidate, from the Russian collusion hoax, frivolous impeachments, and partisan lawfare, and that all they have left is to assassinate him. A defiant, bleeding Trump urged them to keep fighting. I pray they fight only with ballots. Don Schmitz is an independent columnist for Atascadero News / Paso Robles Press, he alongside Lance Simmens write a bi-weekly column on national topics from the perspective of their political leanings. You can forward any comments you have to editor@13starsmedia.com.
wildfire smoke
climate-health nexus,” said Rachel Connolly, the project director.
The report says wildfires produce toxic types of particulates, some of them carcinogenic, that can be up to 10 times more harmful to people than other sources of air pollution like auto smog or smokestack emissions.
Very small particles floating in smoke can affect both hearts and lungs, causing illness, hospitalizations, and premature deaths, wrote the researchers. This can spur temporary problems like coughing but also potentially fatal effects like emphysema and lung cancer.
Some scientists wonder if wildfires are behind a recent nationwide uptick in adenocarcinomas formed in linings of the lungs, also known as non-small cell lung cancers, in persons who have never smoked. The cause of this
increase has not previously been explained.
Dangers from smoke-induced disease do not figure to reduce much soon, the UCLA researchers imply.
What the study calls “questionable wildfire management practices” can combine with longer wildfire seasons to increase “chances of wildfires spreading…toxic smoke,” the researchers said.
What’s more, the tiny particles in smoke can threaten people living far from the actual fires. When winds blew smoke clouds over urban centers like the San Francisco Bay area, San Diego and Los Angeles during the last three years, some people there got sick because the smoke does not lose its particulate content quickly while it travels, the study indicates.
No one knows yet precisely how many long-term illnesses will result from the palls of
smoke that hung over San Francisco and the East Bay hills both in 2022 and last summer. Which gives rise to other questions: If serious illnesses that can take many months to manifest arise a year or more after a smoke cloud has hung over a major population center, are those who started the fires behind that smoke liable for health care expenses of the affected? And how can patients prove the smoke cloud was the direct cause of their health problems?
These are dilemmas the courts, filled with judges and lawyers who never studied epidemiology, will eventually decide. No one can yet know if their decisions will be fair or even well informed.
Thomas Elias is an independent opinion columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email him at atascaderocolumnist@ gmail.com
LANCE SIMMENS COMMENTARY
DON SCHMITZ COMMENTARY From the Left From the Right
designed and installed by faculty and technicians from Cal Poly’s Bailey College of Science and Mathematics. Researchers previously shared time-lapse photos at the site on the Zooniverse community science website, but the new system offers enhanced viewing through a live video feed.
The livestream is part of Project RattleCam, a community science project in which the public helps scientists study rattlesnakes. The project also has deployed a live-streaming camera at a smaller rattlesnake den in California for the past three years during warmer months when the snakes emerge from sheltered habitats. The California camera went live again July 11 and is now available for public viewing
“This livestream allows us to collect data on wild rattlesnakes without disturbing them, facilitating unbiased scientific discovery,” said Emily Taylor, project lead and a Cal Poly biological sciences professor. “But even more important is that members of the public can watch wild rattlesnakes behaving as they naturally do, helping to combat the biased imagery we see on television shows of rattling, defensive, and stressed snakes interacting with people who are provoking them.”
Public viewers of the footage have reported novel interactions such as nighttime visitors, Taylor said, including rodents scurrying by the sleeping snakes. These observations are reported in the YouTube live chat as
well through submission form posts. Another key way that viewers are helping scientists is by identifying snakes by their scale patterns, which are unique to individuals, like human fingerprints.
Taylor expects rattlesnake pups to be born starting in August and to stay at the den with their mothers until male snakes return in September from summer hunting grounds for hibernation. After that, the camera will be turned off for the winter and then resume the following spring.
“We hope to eventually install cameras on snake aggregations (group gathering) all over the world to help us better understand the behaviors of these complex, social animals,” Taylor said.
The camera feed is used for dedicated Cal Poly student researchers. Using livestream snapshots overlayed with data collected from a cellular weather station at the Colorado site, biological sciences master’s degree student
Max Roberts (from Woodland Hills) is studying how the snakes behaviorally maintain their body temperature, avoid sunburn, and conserve water.
As well, a team of Cal Poly liberal studies undergraduate students training to become teachers has designed a curriculum called “RattlEd” to engage elementary school students using the Project RattleCam livestream.
“Third- through fifth-graders will investigate their own scientific questions while watching the snakes with supplemental art, science, and engineering activities to support their learning,”
no one fears for their lives or their loved ones.
said team member Owen Bachhuber, a Cal Poly biological sciences graduate student from Roseville, Minnesota. “The team will measure how children’s perceptions of snakes change after participating in the RattleCam unit.”
For more information on Project Rattlecam social media, search for @ RattleCams. For additional information on the project, go to: www.RattleCam.org
Piedras Blancas landscape project planned in San Luis Obispo County
The Piedras Blancas Landscape Improvement Project north of San Simeon from Piedras Blancas Lighthouse Road to the Arroyo De La Cruz Bridge will begin on Tuesday, July 16. This project will include landscape planting, wetland mitigation, and plant establishment work.
Travelers will encounter one-way reversing traffic control in each week Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians can anticipate 10-minute delays when traveling in the project area.
The contractor for this $4.9 million project is Hanford Restoration and Conservation from Petaluma.
This project is expected to be completed by Summer of 2025 and the plant establishment work will be completed by Spring of 2029.
Road information and updates can also be found on Caltrans District 5 Social Media platforms: Twitter: @CaltransD5, Facebook: Caltrans
Central Coast (District 5), and Instagram/Threads: @Caltrans_D5.
Dr. Elizabeth Coria selected for the Aspen Institute Rising Presidents Fellowship
The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program (Aspen) announced that Dr. Elizabeth Coria, Cuesta College assistant superintendent/vice president of student success & support programs, is one of 40 leaders selected for the 2024-25 Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship. Applying lessons from over a dozen years of researching exceptional community colleges, the Aspen fellowship aims to select and prepare the next generation of presidents who can lead institutions to higher and more equitable levels of student success.
With many sitting community college presidents planning to retire in the next decade, the Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship program becomes not just an opportunity but a necessity. It is a crucial step for college trustees and system heads to select leaders with the skills and knowledge to achieve better student outcomes.
The incoming class of Aspen Rising Presidents Fellows, with its 58 percent women and 55 percent people of color, represents the diverse future of college leadership.
These fellows, selected through a competitive process, will work closely with highly accomplished community college presidents and thought leaders over 10 months to learn from field-leading research, examine demo-
graphic and labor market conditions in their communities, assess student outcomes at their colleges, and advance a clear vision for excellent and equitable outcomes for students while in college and after they graduate.
“Dr. Elizabeth Coria’s selection as an Aspen Rising Presidents Fellow is a significant milestone for her and our entire community,” said Dr. Jill Stearns, Cuesta College superintendent and president. “With a growing number of community college presidents retiring, the need for visionary leaders dedicated to systemic change has never been more critical. The Aspen Institute recognizes this urgency and is committed to developing leaders who drive innovation and equity in higher education. With her exceptional talent and commitment, I am confident that Dr. Coria will leverage the insights and best practices from the highest performing colleges to create impactful change, advance the mission of community colleges, and enhance economic mobility for all students.”
Rising Presidents Fellows aspire to enter a college presidency within five years of completing the fellowship. As fellows, they join a network of over 350 forward-thinking peers — 175 of whom are sitting college presidents — applying concrete, grounded, and innovative strategies to meet student success challenges in their colleges.
For bios and photos of all 40 leaders, visit highered.aspeninstitute.org/ meet-the-rising-presidents-fellows
place in our political process.
Most of us also believe gun violence has no place in our communities.
“Voters in this election have a chance to reject a MAGA movement that relies on extremist rhetoric that feeds, foments, and encourages an atmosphere of looming violence. We can choose instead to be a country where
“We can choose to be a country where we’ve banned easily accessible, military-grade weapons of war — like that used at the MAGA rally last Saturday — so they’re not used against schoolchildren or politicians, movie goers or concert attendees.
“We can choose to be a country where the people who represent us respect our
freedoms — to live without fear of being singled out for who we love or what we look like, to cast our votes and have our election results respected, and to decide for ourselves in counsel with our doctors and clergy what our futures will hold.
“We all deserve to live our lives, move through our communities, and engage in our political process peacefully — no matter whether we are running for office or
through a school hallway.”
Our 43rd President, George W. Bush was the last known assassination attempt known to the public.
Bush was attending a rally in 2005 with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili when a hand grenade was thrown toward him. Fortunately, during that incident, no one was hurt, and the grenade did not explode.
In March 1981, President Reagan was shot in the
shoulder by John Hinckley Jr. while walking to his motorcade. These are just a few failed attempts on U.S. presidents, and of course, they stand among a few successful attempts.
Paso Robles Press and Atascadero News will keep readers updated as more information becomes available.
Sources: A look at the history of pres -
idential assassination attempts in America apnews.com/article/ presidential-assassinationslincoln-mckinley-garfieldkennedy-175d046b694ec8b37 0ba60bf2b001d76 At the Trump rally, it was evening sun, songs and blue sky. Then came bullets, screams and blood apnews.com/article/trumpassassination-attempt-whathappened-734900d303fcfbf34 9162047f8059601
SLO County Wine Industry to recognize industry leaders
PASO ROBLES — The San Luis Obispo County wine industry annually comes together to honor members of the local wine community. These awards recognize dedication, stewardship, innovation, and leadership demonstrated in the county. The 2024 San Luis Obispo County Wine Industry Awards go to:
• Wine Grape Grower of the Year — Niels and Bimmer Udsen, Castoro Cellars
• Winemaker of the Year — McPrice Myers, McPrice Myers Wines
Wine Industry Person of the Year — Molly Scott, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery
Lifetime Achievement Award (Posthumous)
— Mike English, Tin City Paso Robles
The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance, in partnership with the SLO Coast Wine Collective, the Independent Grape Growers of the Paso Robles Area, The Vineyard Team, and past award recipients worked together to identify the 2024 winners. The honorees are evaluated on their leadership and accomplishments in California’s third-largest wine region, San Luis Obispo County.
“The Mid-State Fair is such a fitting backdrop for the San Luis Obispo County Wine Awards,” said Joel Peterson, the executive director of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. “This year’s winners have been so dedicated to our wine region — with grape growing, winemaking, and strong leadership in our regional associations. They are passionate, skilled, and capable leaders who were recognized by their peers for their contributions to the county’s wine industry. We can’t wait to celebrate with them.”
The San Luis Obispo County Wine Community will celebrate this year’s award
winners at a special event on Friday, July 19, at the California Mid-State Fair within Mission Square beginning at 6 p.m. The awards presentation is a free event with paid admission to the California Mid-State Fair. Preceding the awards presentation is a ticketed event featuring a walk-around tasting of the gold medal winners of the Central Coast Wine Competition (CCWC). Also recognized will be the CCWC Winery of the Year award, Eberle Winery.
About Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance
The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance is the official trade organization that represents wineries, growers, and businesses in Paso Robles Wine Country. Centrally located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along the Central Coast, Paso Robles Wine Country is California’s third-largest wine region. It encompasses more than 40,000 vineyard acres and 200 wineries. For more information, visit pasowine.com.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
— Habitat for Humanity San Luis Obispo County (Habitat SLO) is holding a ReStore-It Challenge to support local affordable housing for families in need and to promote sustainability.
Through July 31, anyone can enter by purchasing a $20 ReStore credit and taking home a piece of furniture to fix up from the San Luis Obispo or Paso Robles ReStore. Bring it back to the respective store by July 31 for customer voting. Winners will be announced Aug. 17 at The Big Deal ReStore Anniversary Event.
Entering the ReStore-It Challenge allows participants to show off their skills with creativity, traditional restoration, or innovation to revive their piece while promoting sustainable consumer habits.
“Each year, Americans throw out
more than 12 million tons of furniture,” the New York Times wrote in one article. Renewing and repurposing furniture gives it a second chance and keeps it out of landfills; so far
this year, local ReStore customers prevented 686,650 pounds of usable materials from ending up in the trash.
“Dining room tables and chairs,
dressers, bookshelves, hutches, coffee tables — there is so much to choose from,” states Stephanie Wright, Habitat SLO ReStores manager.
“It’s nice to see old pieces come back
to life in other ways.” Entrants can proudly exhibit the project by taking photos to show progress, posting photos on Instagram with #ReStoreItChallenge, and inviting Habitat SLO to collaborate @HabitatSLOReStores.
ReStore credit can be used on store items, and the proceeds go towards Habitat SLO’s Affordable Housing, Home Preservation, and Neighborhood Revitalization programs. For more information or fun ways to get involved, go to habitatslo.org or follow Habitat SLO on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
About Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity SLO County is a nonprofit organization that brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Since 1997, we have built, repaired, and rehabilitated houses throughout San Luis Obispo County. We believe in a world where everyone has a decent place to live. By building and improving homes, we create strong and stable communities. Habitat for Humanity SLO County strives to make decent, sustainable, and affordable housing a reality for all.
CAMBRIA — From Oct. 1 through 31, over 200 creative and animated scarecrows will take over the coastal towns of Cambria and San Simeon for the yearly Cambria Scarecrow Festival. These handcrafted and whimsical figures will be found along the streets and in vacant areas, offering a delightful sight for both residents and tourists to enjoy at their own pace during the entire month.
While many newly created scarecrows will be out in 2024, past year’s creations and displays will also be reimagined and repurposed to keep it new and exciting.
“This year’s festival will feature a new ‘Fun and Games’ display, showcasing scarecrows playing popular games in an environment perfect for fun and photo ops. Additionally, attendees can look forward to a large area in town devoted to more traditional scarecrows,” said Patty Wallace Rixman, Cambria Scare-
crow Festival president. “But they won’t just be standing there in a field ... these scarecrows will be lively and full of personality.”
“Watch for a lot of new scarecrows,” she added. But she assures that “favorites like the CambrAliens, El Encanto and the Cambria Scarecrow Academy — with a new twist — will be coming back. So if you missed them last year, make sure to check them out this October.”
All of these unique works of art are made by a group of talented and dedicated community members.
In 2009, the scarecrow festival made its debut with 30 scarecrows and has since grown from a weekend event at the Cambria Historical Museum to a month-long celebration.
“The festival was created in response to a slow October for businesses in Cambria,” Festival Vice President Stephanie Vassigh explained. “Now, they are enjoying a nice increase in tourists during this time.”
Rixman, also in charge of the Friends of the Cambria Scarecrow Festival program, added, “Last year, we almost doubled our business participation. Donations of $100 or more include a free scarecrow for your business. Give over $300 and business donors will get a special shoutout during the festival on our social media pages. This presents a great
opportunity for increased foot traffic during the festival.”
The grand finale of the Cambria Scarecrow Festival is a culinary extravaganza at Cambria Nursery and Florist on Oct. 26. Known as “The Salute to Scarecrows! A Starlit Celebration of Cambria,” this event will showcase delicious dishes and wines from a select group of Cambria’s restaurants and wineries.
“Not only does this celebration support the Cambria Scarecrow Festival, a charitable organization, but it is also a highly popular event that sells out quickly,” stated Vassigh.
The Festival has garnered attention from various media outlets including Woman’s Day, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, ABCNews.com, and Huffington Post. The Travel Channel even recognized it as one of the top 10 scarecrow festivals in the U.S. and Canada and USAToday proclaimed it to be one of the top fall festivals in the U.S. worth traveling to.
“We are thrilled about this year’s festival in scarecrow-land,” exclaimed Rixman. “It truly embodies the artistic spirit of our community.” For more information, go to CambriaScarecrows.com
— The City
be held on Saturday, July 20, at 6:30
Danny Grasseschi with an all-star group of pro-level players who have been playing in multiple bands since their teens — Mark Paisley on keys, Rob Espinosa on guitar and vocals, Russ Kuster on bass and vocals, and co-founding member
on drums. For 12 consecutive years, they’ve joined
together as a band, playing music for friends in Robin’s Garden in Cambria for their “Summer Nights” series. From this experience (and the Rick Nelson song) came the name “Garden Party.” They all have a passion for live music. Together Garden Party plays covers of ‘60s and ‘70s folk rock music, with the goal of spreading peace, love and good vibrations through their authentic covers of some of the greatest hippie songs ever written.
Paradise Shaved Ice will be there selling delicious concert treats. Be sure to mark your calendar for a fantastic concert series lineup: “Saturday in the Park” Summer Concert Series lineup: July 20: Garden Party (Classic soft rock)
• July 27: Erin & the Earthquakes (Dance rock, funk and soul)
•
ATASCADERO
of Atascadero is continuing to offer the “Saturdays in the Park” Summer Concert Series. The next concert will
p.m. at the Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand with Garden Party. Garden Party is led by
Steve Hilstein
Niels and Bimmer Udsen of Castoro Cellars are the Winegrape Growers of the Year, as named by the SLO County Wine Industry Awards. Contributed Photo
Wednesday Addams scarecrow is displayed at a previous Cambria Scarecrow Festival. Photo provided by Cambria Scarecrow Festival
Stephanie Wright, Habitat SLO ReStores manager, sands a side table at the Paso Robles ReStore. Photo provided by Habitat SLO
One Cool Earth acknowledges key partners for support of school garden programs
Environmental advocate’s mission is to educate and inspire through sustainable practices
STAFF REPORT
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — One Cool Earth (OCE), a leading advocate for education and sustainable community initiatives, is pleased to extend its heartfelt
NONPROFIT
gratitude to several key partners whose support has contributed to the success of their school garden programs. Through their contributions and commitment, these organizations have played a crucial role in fostering environmental stewardship and enriching educational experiences for their students.
Among their partners, the National Parks Trust has provided essential resources and expertise, empowering students to learn about biodiversity and conservation firsthand within their garden spaces. Their dedication to environmental education has been instrumental in cultivating a deep appreciation for nature among the youth.
The Arroyo Grande Community Service Grant and the Morro Bay National Estuary Program have demonstrated commitment to the community’s youth through their ongoing financial support. Their funding has directly contributed to the expansion and maintenance of the school gardens, ensuring that students have access to hands-on educational resources.
Justin Vineyards and Grover Beach Community Grant have contributed to the garden infrastructure, enhancing their ability to provide hands-on learning experiences that connect students with the origins of their food and the principles of organic gardening.
The Cambria Community Council, Glikbarg Foundation, Miossi Charitable Trust, and Sustainable Land Initiative have each provided crucial financial support that has allowed the school garden programs to flourish. Their belief in One Cool Earth’s mission to educate and inspire through sustainable practices has empowered them to reach more students and deepen their impact in the community.
Through collaboration with these dedicated partners, One Cool Earth continues to innovate and expand the school garden programs, nurturing future generations of environmental leaders. Together, they are sowing the seeds of sustainability and fostering a profound connection to the natural world.
CONTACT INFO
P.O. Box 3120, Atascadero, CA 93423 (805)712-6356 atascaderogreyhound foundation.org
LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero
AWARENESS - PREVENTION - INTERVENTION - EDUCATION
About: The Atascadero Greyhound Foundation has been serving the Atascadero community for more than 20 years, gradually adding more events that serve its mission. We have grown, and continue to give because of the generous donors, sponsors and participants of our events. Our events are a benefit to the community in healthy activity — either athletically, musically, educationally, or in the fight against addiction. Donations: Our support comes from generous donors and sponsors. To make a difference, visit: lighthouseatascadero.org
OUR MISSION: ALF Food Pantry is dedicated to providing nutritious groceries to the food-insecure residents of the communities we serve. ALF Food Pantry (formerly known as Atascadero Loaves and Fishes) is celebrating 40 years of service to our community, providing groceries to families and individuals. The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce honored ALF as the 2024 Community Organization of the Year. With an all-volunteer workforce, we distributed nearly 600,000 pounds of food in 2023, the equivalent of 360,000 meals. We provide quality fresh and shelf-stable ingredients to food-insecure people in Atascadero, Templeton, Santa Margarita, Creston, and California Valley. Clients have increased by 20% each year since 2020 and food costs are dramatically higher.
Donations: We need your help to allow us to continue our vital work. Donate today using our QR code or mail a check to ALF Food Pantry, 5411 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422.
United Way of San Luis Obispo County
EDUCATION. INCOME. COMMUNITY.
CONTACT INFO (805) 541-1234 unitedwayslo.org
CONTACT INFO
Offices in Atascadero, Paso Robles & SLO treeoflifepsc.com (805) 543-6000
CONTACT INFO 1000 Spring Street Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3870 prcity.com
CONTACT INFO
Operation Surf 80 San Francisco St. Avila Beach, CA (805) 544-7873 info@operationsurf.org operationsurf.org
United Way of San Luis Obispo County’s programs deliver the education and resources that can help families succeed, in the present and for the next generation. Our work is centered on three impact areas that give people the best start for a successful life: Early Childhood Education, Family Financial Stability and Community Strengthening. Please join us! Together we can do our part to make a stronger community in SLO County that benefits us all.
DONATE: Invest in lasting change through a charitable donation at unitedwayslo.org/donate
VOLUNTEER: Find a volunteer opportunity that fits you at unitedwayslo.org/volunteer
TREE OF LIFE Pregnancy Care Center
WOMEN. HEALTH. LIFE
Tree of Life has been helping women and families in our community for over 39 years. All services are FREE and confidential. Women facing pregnancy decisions can find compassion, hope, positive options, and practical help from our friendly and knowledgeable staff. Our goal is to provide resources to assist a woman in choosing life for her baby and then to parent or place for adoption. We also offer compassionate help for women struggling with the mental and emotional effects of a previous abortion. Donations: We’re grateful that all of our support comes from generous individuals here in our community.
Friends of the Paso Robles Library
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Support the Library through a Friends of the Library membership, starting as low as $10/year. The Friends of the Library appreciates donations, which are either added to the Library’s collection or used to generate considerable funds toward the purchase of new books, library materials, programs, services, etc. Support the Library in a 100% volunteer-run retail environment. We are seeking volunteers to assist with Gift Shop sales, book donation sorting, and to provide book sale support.
Due to limited storage space and staff, we are only able to accept two boxes or two bags of materials per household per day. Cash donations always welcome!
BOARD MEETINGS:
Call (805) 237-3870 for information
Operation Surf
MISSION
Our mission is to channel the healing powers of the ocean to restore hope, renew purpose, and revitalize community. Operation Surf’s curriculum-based programs aim to inspire injured military and veterans to seek wellness in all aspects of their lives while providing the necessary resources, tools, and peer-to-peer support to continue this mindset indefinitely. By staying true to our core values of care, inclusion, commitment, integrity, and communication, we change participants’ lives – one wave at a time. Local Veteran Opportunities: OS3- Three Month Surf Program Application is Open! Apply via the website www.operationsurf.org OS3 is a three-month, locally-focused program that provides veterans with an opportunity to bond through surfing, keep each other motivated,
Redwings Horse Sanctuary
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
CONTACT INFO 6875 Union Road Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3751 redwingshorse sanctuary.org
Redwings is always looking for volunteers to help us provide the highest standard of care for our horses and burros. You do not need to have any prior horse experience to volunteer at Redwings. If you would like to work with our horses, the first step is to take a Volunteer Training Class. This class covers sanctuary rules, basic safe horsemanship skills, and an introduction to some of the horses that you will be working with. After completion of the class you are welcome to come volunteer and help with the horses any time during our volunteer hours. Volunteer hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 8am to 3:30pm, and we are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Note: We do not allow volunteers to ride the horses at Redwings. There are other ways to get involved and volunteer at Redwings too. We have opportunities to help in our rose and memorial garden, volunteering in the office, helping with events and fundraising, and more. Please submit the form below to schedule a volunteer training or contact our office: info@redwingshorsesanctuary.org or (805) 237-3751. For information about making donations, adoptions, etc, visit redwingshorsesanctuary.com. For upcoming events, visit facebook.com/pg/redwingshorses/events
Atascadero Elks Lodge
CONTACT INFO 1516 El Camino Real, Atascadero, Ca 93422 805-466-3557 www.elks2733.org
Elks have contributed over $1,000,000 to local community-based programs, non-profits, youth groups, local sports teams, programs for handicapped and needy children, patriotic programs, veterans’ programs and many, many community activities. Our mission as Elks is to inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize our belief in God; to promote the welfare of our community; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; and to cultivate good fellowship. We have a full calendar of events and activities for our members. To learn more or to join us please contact us at (805)466-3557, visit the Lodge at 1516 El Camino Real, follow-us on Facebook or visit our website at: elks2733.org.
PERSPECTIVE
Good News • Real News • Your Hometown News
WORSHIP DIRECTORY
ATASCADERO GOSPEL CHAPEL
8205 Curbaril Ave. (corner of Curbaril & Atascadero Ave.): Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. Ted Mort, Pastor. (805) 466-0175. atascaderogospelchapel.org
Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living A New Thought Spiritual Community. Living the Consciously Awakened Life. Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue Sunday 10:00am at the Pavilion 9315 Pismo Way, Atascadero (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.org
St. William’s Catholic Church 6410 Santa Lucia Road, Atascadero, CA (805) 466-0849 www. stwilliams.org Weekday Masses : 10:30 AM Saturday Vigil Mass: 4:30 PM Sunday Masses: 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM Spanish
FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH
9925 Morro Road, Atascadero; "The Church on the Hill"; An independent church committed to the teaching of God's Word.; Praise and Prayer–10 a.m.; Morning Worship–11 a.m.; Evening Worship–6 p.m.; Wednesday Prayer–6:30 p.m.; Nursery care and children's classes provided.; Pastor Jorge Guerrero; (805) 461-9197.
HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH ELCA
A place of hope! Join us for in-person worship on Sundays at 9 A.M. Services are also streamed on our YouTube channel, Hope Lutheran Church Atascadero. We offer Sunday School for all ages after worship. Learn more at ourhopelutheran.net. 8005 San Gabriel Road, Atascadero. 805.461.0430. office@ourhopelutheran.org.
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER-LCMS
4500 El Camino Real, Atascadero; 466-9350; Morning Bible class at 9 a.m. Sunday; Coffee and Sunday Worship with Holy Communion at 10 a.m. Sunday; Thursday morning Bible class 10 a.m. followed by refreshments and fellowship; Developmentally disabled Bible class 1st and 3rd Saturday mornings; redeemeratascadero.org; redeemeratascadero@gmail.com; Pastor Wayne Riddering.
PLYMOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UCC
We honor ancient scriptures, responding to God’s contemporary call to be just and kind.; Join us for Worship Sunday, 10 a.m.; Church School Sunday, 10:15 a.m.; Coffee Fellowship 11 a.m.; Men’s Bible Study, Wednesday, 8 a.m.; Women’s Bible Study, Friday, 10 a.m.; Youth Group; 1301 Oak St., Paso Robles; (805) 238-3321.
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH
940 Creston Road, Paso Robles; has Sunday worship services at 9:30 a.m; For more information, call the church at (805) 238-3702. Ext. 206.
ATASCADERO FOURSQUARE CHURCH–FATHER’S HOUSE
2100 Ramona Road. Sunday service at 10am. Will & Lori Barrow, Pastors; (805) 466-3191; fathershouseafc.com
ABIDE CALVARY ATASCADERO
4500 El Camino Ave (Downstairs, Rear Parking Lot) // info@ abideatascadero.org. Sunday Service at 9am, Children’s Ministry provided for ages 2yrs–6th grade. Pastors Chris Vanoli & Ben Eisenman // Love God, Love Others // Abiding closely with Jesus and teaching others to do the same.
THE REVIVAL CENTER
A division of Alpha Beth Ministries; 3850 Ramada Drive (corner of Ramada and Cow Meadow), Paso Robles; 805-434-5170; Pastor Gabe Abdelaziz; a charismatic non-denominational fellowship; Reaching People, Building Homes; Sundays 10am, Wednesday 7pm; alphabeth@tcsn.net, www.alphabeth.org; Instagram @the_ revival_center
COMMUNITY CHURCH OF ATASCADERO, UCC
5850 Rosario Ave. Service 10 a.m. (in person and on Zoom) Pastor Heather Branton (805) 466-9108 atascaderoucc.org
ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 820 Creston Road., Paso Robles; (805) 238-2218- Parish Office open Mon-Fri 1 p.m.-5 p.m.; website: www.saintrosechurch.org; Mass times; Daily Mass- 8:30 a.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.; Tues. 7 p.m. Saturday Vigil Mass 5 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass at 1 p.m. & 6 p.m. Father Rodolfo Contreras.
SANTA MARGARITA DE CORTONA CATHOLIC CHURCH
22515 “H” St, Santa Margarita (805)438-5383 Parish Office hours:Wed-Thur 9am-12pm Mass Times: Saturday Vigil Mass:5pm Sunday:10am Wed-Fri 10am Adoration Wed following Mass Confessions: Saturday 4pm and Sunday 9am
The little schedule book the Fair put out calls our Fair “12 days of fun” with new attractions, live entertainment, carnival rides, and Watermelon eating contests! Who would not love all that.
And don’t forget the food. Under “new food,” I read the following description of a Philly Express sandwich: Buffalo Chicken Philly Sandwich — chicken, bell peppers, onion, provolone cheese in a special buffalo sauce and a Garlic Philly Sandwich — steak or chicken, bell peppers, onions, and provolone cheese in a garlic Parmesan sauce. Mmm, just might be worth a trip to the fair to try one out.
And while I’m there, I will not forget to visit the Home Arts building to see the displays of projects done by our great 4H and FFA kids and other
Henry Ford once said that you could have any color of car you wanted as long as it was black. Fast forward to today and it seems like the automotive industry is saying you can have any color of truck you want as long as it’s white.
I watch a monthly internet truck auction and I bet that 98 percent of the used trucks they sell are white. I’m talking bucket trucks, welding trucks, flat beds, veterinarian pickups, plumber’s trucks even over the road tractor-trailer rigs. They’re all white! Twenty-five years ago most of the trucks were some tint of silver causing me to wonder if the executives of the automotive industry are color blind?
It wasn’t always this way. Nearly 60 years ago, I learned to drive in a Chevy short-bed that was gold. My father traded it in for a GMC that was cherry-red.
ABe included in the Atascadero News & Paso Robles Press Worship Directory for an entire year at $175
Cooling
off
members of the communities here in our county. I love the quilts. Next I will visit and view the local arts, crafts, and flowers in the Frontier Pavilion.
What a special time now through July 28 for all of us to enjoy this special event known as the California Mid-State Fair. Hope you will enjoy everything that has been planned for us this year. See ya’ at the fair!
When you get home from a day at the Fair, cool off with a tall glass of this refreshing watermelon-mint cooler.
Watermelon- Mint Cooler Ingredients and Directions:
In a food processor or blender, puree 5 cups chopped seedless watermelon and a handful of fresh mint leaves. Strain watermelon mixture (should have about 4 cups) into an ice-filled pitcher. Stir in 1/2 cup fresh lime juice, 3/4 cup simple syrup, 3/4 teaspoon aromatic bitters, and 4 to 5 cups chilled ginger ale. If you like, add more fresh mint leaves to the pitcher before serving. Makes about 9 cups.
Or, invite a couple of other fair-goers to stop in for a Bourbon-Pineapple Slush. You can
My Grandpa’s truck was also red. One of the best looking trucks I’ve seen, even to this day, was a 1952 Chevy pickup painted light blue with baby moon hubcaps that was frequently seen around town. But the best looking truck I’ve ever seen was the first truck I ever bought, a 1970 Chevy El Camino SS 396 that was painted a dark metallic brown with tiny gold flecks that made it sparkle like a diamond. The roof was a beige vinyl that blended beautifully with the dark brown. Normally, I’m not a big fan of brown, but this rig was a real head-turner, and I don’t know why I sold it other than the fact that we needed the money for the down payment on our first home. My wife sold her beautiful blue Camaro for the same reason, and looking back, I wish we hadn’t bought the house and kept those vehicles instead, even if it meant we had to live in them.
My last two pickups were a two-tone combination that you don’t see much anymore. The first was painted a dark blue on the top with the bottom being silver, and after that, we bought a one-ton that was tan on top and
and fair time
make these ahead by freezing the mixture up to the last step.
Bourbon-Pineapple Slush
Ingredients and Directions:
Process 2 cups pineapple juice, 1 cup bourbon, 1 cup cream of coconut, 1/2 cup fresh orange juice, 1/4 cup amaretto, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a blender on low speed until smooth, about 10 seconds. Cover blender container tightly with plastic wrap and place in freezer until very cold, at least 2 hours, or freeze in ice cube trays or muffin tins while you’re at the Fair. Remove from freezer and add to blender container. Blend to break down frozen mixture then add 4 cups ice to the mixture and process until smooth, about 1 minute. Divide among 4 glasses and garnish with fresh pineapple wedges and grated nutmeg. There’s a special cooling effect that comes with a glass of iced tea, and this recipe is tweaked with ginger syrup for a cut-above flavor.
Ginger Iced Tea
Ingredients:
• 2 1/2 quarts cold water, divided
Perfectly imperfect It’s a gray area
white on the bottom. At least it was white after we washed the truck on rare occasions; the rest of the time, it was more of a manure brown. It could change color rapidly, too, especially if the cattle were eating washy feed.
I’ve only owned one white truck, and it was my Grandpa’s company, Econoline, which we named Herbie. This was also the only Ford I ever owned. I paid Grandpa $600 for it and used it mostly to haul my sheep, so I suppose you could call it an “Ewe Haul.” Actually, it was a two-tone because the side mirrors were both held on by blue masking tape. As much as I hate to say this, Herbie was probably the best truck we ever owned.
It’s no coincidence that as more and more trucks were white, people became a lot less friendly. This was because when people drove colorful rigs you always knew who was approaching and had time to decide if it was friend or foe which determined whether you waved or not. Now that trucks are all white you never know who’s coming until it’s too late to wave.
I worked at an Atlantic Richfield gas station that eventually
• 3 family-size tea bags (I prefer Liptons) Ginger Syrup (recipe follows) Cinnamon sticks and lemon curls for garnish
Directions: In a medium saucepan, bring 1 quart cold water to a boil. Remove from heat, and add tea bags, cover and steep for 5 minutes. Strain tea into a large pitcher. Add Ginger Syrup and remaining 1 1/2 quarts cold water, stirring to combine. Serve over ice. Garnish with cinnamon sticks and lemon curls, if desired. Ginger Syrup In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and 2 cups water over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Add cinnamon sticks and ginger syrup. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes. Cover and steep for 10 minutes. Strain mixture, discarding solids. Let cool completely. Stay cool. Cheers! Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at bbutz1@outlook.com
became Arco and it was always fun to try and identify our incoming regular customers by the color. of their cars. There were orange Vegas, yellow Pintos, blue Nash Ramblers and older olive drab DeSotos, Edsels and Studebakers. Ford even had a color in the 60s they called Anti-Establish-Mint.
From what I’ve observed lately, it seems like Detroit has now decided that the next wave of color will be gray. How exciting! The problem is that all the white and gray vehicles on the road are so boring that people fall asleep at the wheel. They’re having terrible wrecks and the occupants are ending up in the back of a black or gray hearse to haul them to the bone orchard. I suppose the car execs think they’re bold and adventurous by picking gray to follow white. I wonder what they are going to call their new favorite color, Mortuary Gray, Funeral Parlor Dull or Meat Wagon Monotonous.
Lee Pitts is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at leepitts@ leepittsbooks.com.
merican New Thought writer, teacher, and leader Ernest Holmes observed, “The whole purpose of the Science of Mind is to reconcile the apparent separation of the spiritual world, which must be Perfect, with the material world, which appears imperfect.” The Science of Mind, a powerful force that brings philosophy, religion, and science together, offers principles for living and spiritual tools to transform personal lives, instilling hope and inspiration to make the world a better place.
Ten years ago, I spent some time in India with 13 traveling
companions and a tour guide who, thankfully, handled all the travel arrangements. India greets you with its intensity and depth as soon as you leave the airplane. As a third-world country, you see things you’ve never seen before or even imagined to be possible. Love and compassion wash over you as you take it all in.
One of the locals in Rajasthan shared with me that the American people told him it was hard for them to be in India because it was difficult to bear witness to so much poverty. He responded that they did not live in poverty according to their values. They might have eight people living together in a small room and love the close, intimate time they spend together. He said that they believe Americans live in poverty because we have 2,500 square foot homes with two to three people living there. That seemed very sad and lonely to them, like poverty.
Being human can be messy at times and appear imperfect. We are each perfectly imperfect and would all do well to be proud of our imperfections. Thinking you are alone in your suffering creates separation from others and God. If you are dealing with something troubling, I invite you to remember that you are not alone. You were made in the image and likeness of God. You are the living presence of love endowed with the wholeness of spiritual perfection within you. Beyond the word of appearances is the spiritual prototype of your good, your highest and best self, waiting to be noticed. Say yes to this good.
Amid your suffering, if you could imagine your spiritual perfection and know that within you there is that which has never been hurt, harmed, deceived, betrayed, ill, or otherwise, and focus on that, your suffering would decrease.
In difficult times, we often
focus on the difficulty that perpetuates it and the suffering around it. Instead of dwelling on the source of the pain, the group of thoughts you’re having that perpetuate it and make it worse, imagine what you would love to experience instead. Keep focusing on that, and bring it into your prayer and meditation. Create a vision board or journal about it and discuss it with your friends. Share it as a possibility that you’re empowered to live into in the here and now. Your spiritual magnificence awaits.
Know that the Universe is always conspiring for your highest and best good. You are not flawed. You are perfectly imperfect, exactly as you are. And so it is.
Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue is an independent columnist for the Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at revelizabeth@awakeningways.org.
lee pitts COLUMNIST
barbie butz COLUMNIST
rev. elizabeth rowley hogue COLUMNIST
Photos by Rick Evans
Photos by Rick Evans
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
JULY EVENTS
EVERY MONDAYFRIDAY UNTIL FALL
LAVENDER U-PICK
Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel
10 am-4 pm
For $15 per person (children under 12 are free with adult) you can visit the farm and pick enough lavender to make one bouquet. After harvesting your lavender, find a cozy spot in one of our picnic areas to relax and unwind or visit the farm animals or farm store. For more information, visit hamblyfarms.com/visit-thefarm/#u-pick.
JULY 20, & 27
SATURDAYS IN THE PARK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave
6:30–8:30 pm
Enjoy the Sounds of Summer on a chair or blanket, listening to live music by the lake.
July 6: The Rockin’ Bs Band (Rock, Country & More); July 20: Garden Party (Classic Soft Rock); July 27: Erin & the Earthquakes (Dance Rock, Funk & Soul).
JULY 23 & 30
TUESDAYS IN THE PARK
Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave
7pm
Free one-hour concerts by the Atascadero Community Band. 7pm Bring your lawn chairs!
JULY 17 & 21
CONCERTS IN THE PARK SERIES
Templeton Park 6–8 pm
Listen to and enjoy live music outside.
JULY 18, AND 25
CONCERTS IN THE PARK
Downtown Paso Robles 6–8 pm
Listen to live music in the Park under the trees.
JULY 17-28
CALIFORNIA MIDSTATE FAIR
Paso Robles Event Center
The California Mid-State Fair is held annually and runs for 12 days at the end of July. The Fair has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry.
JULY 26-27
C10 SLOW DOWN
TRUCK SHOW
Avila Beach Golf Resort
The 4th Annual C10 SLO Down Truck Show is a showcase of the wide variety of styles and techniques used in restoring and keeping Classic GM trucks on the road. This family-friendly show is
the fastest growing automobile event on the West Coast. Trucks will be displayed on the fairways of the Avila Beach Golf Resort just steps from the beach. For more information c10slodown.com
AUGUST EVENTS
AUGUST 1, 8, 15, & 22 CONCERTS IN THE PARK 6-8pm
Enjoy live music in the Downtown Paso Robles’ City Park.
AUGUST 3, 10, & 31
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave.
6:30-8:30pm
Bring a blanket or chair while listening to live music on a summer evening. Aug. 3 - Josh Rosenblum Band, August 10 - Stellar, and August 31 - The JD Project.
AUGUST 3
WILD ABOUT ART Charles Paddock Zoo 10am-3pm
Everyone will have an oppor-
tunity to watch as the Zoo’s animal residents create their own, unique and artistic pieces. Zoo visitors will also be able to create lots of fun arts and crafts too, with plenty of opportunities for children to color, paint, and much more.
AUGUST 6 & 13
TUESDAYS IN THE PARK
Atascadero Lake Park 7pm
Tuesdays in the Park free one hour concerts by the Atascadero Community Band. Kiwanis BBQ at 5pm on August 6 before the concert.
AUGUST 7, 14, & 21
CONCERTS IN THE PARK Templeton Park 6-8pm
Free live music event with food and drinks to purchase. Dogs are not allowed.
AUGUST 10 & 24
SUMMER MOVIES IN THE PARK Colony Park, 5599 Traffic Way, Atascadero 8-10pm
Have an outdoor evening of family fun and activities before the movie. August 10 - Wonka - and August 24Kung Fu Panda 4.
AUGUST 16-17
CRUISIN’ WEEKEND Downtown Atascadero
The weekend kicks of with the 31st Annual Hot El Camino Cruise Nite on Aug. 16 at 6:30pm, and continues with the 33rd Annual mid State Cruisers Car Show from 10am-3pm on August 17 at Atascadero Lake Park, followed by 8th Annual Dancing in the Streets Downtown from 5-10pm. For more information, visit visitatascadero.com/events/index. php?id=581.
AUGUST 20
SECOND ANNUAL
ENSEMBLES CONCERT Atascadero Lake Park 7pm
Second annual Ensembles Concert — small groups from the Atascadero Community Band will musically entertain you for an hour! Free, as always.
Wine Country Theatre to premiere ‘Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella’ in Paso Robles, with new take on an old tale
Summer production opens Aug. 16 at Park Ballroom, promising a fresh take on the classic tale
PASO ROBLES — Wine Country Theatre, a professional caliber community theatre, is rehearsing for its Summer production of “Rodger and Hammerstein’s Cinderella,” opening Aug. 16 at the Park Ballroom in downtown Paso Robles. Tickets for “Cinderella” are available now and can be purchased by visiting WineCountryTheatre.org.
With its fresh new take on the beloved tale of a young woman who is transformed from a chambermaid into a princess, this hilarious and romantic “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” combines the story’s classic elements — glass slippers, pumpkin, and a beautiful ball — along with
‘Colors
some surprising twists. More than just a pretty face with the right shoe size, this Cinderella is a contemporary figure living in a fairy-tale setting. She is a spirited young woman with savvy and soul who doesn’t let her rags, or her gowns, trip her up in her quest for kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. She longs to escape the drudgery of her work at home and instead works to make the world a better place. She not only fights for her own dreams but forces the prince to open his eyes to the world around him and realize his dreams, too.
When Cinderella meets a dragon-slaying young prince who is just assuming control of his government, Ella helps spark transformation and empower the disenfranchised in their kingdom. As in Hammerstein’s original book, her wicked stepmother and stepsisters are funnier and less cartoonishly cruel than in the Disney version.
Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most beloved
Local artists and the land conservancy team up to showcase and preserve the Central Coast’s natural beauty
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County and SLOPE (San Luis Outdoor Painters for the Environment) announce “Colors of Conservation,” an annual exhibit of original landscape paintings of our precious open spaces, historic ranch lands, waterways, and coastal areas.
The event is open to the public and will be held in the Milking Parlor at the iconic San Luis Obispo landmark, the Octagon Barn Center on Friday, Aug. 9, from 5 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, Aug. 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Original paintings and prints will be available for sale. A portion of art sales will benefit The Land
songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible,” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” in this hilarious and romantic Broadway experience for anyone who’s ever had a wish, a dream or a really great pair of shoes. This timeless musical treasure will inspire and delight the whole family.
“Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” has music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, a new book by Douglas Carter Beane and original book by Oscar Hammerstein II.
Director Jacob Shearer states that he is “thrilled to collaborate with our talented community of artists to bring to life the story of woman empowered by kindness. Through her journey, we aim to transform apathy into sympathy, and inspire our audience. I look forward to the magic we will create together on the Park Ballroom stage. It’s a huge undertaking, a collaborative journey involving community members of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.”
Leading the cast of 40, Grace
“Camatta,
Conservancy. Live artist painting demonstrations on Saturday, Aug. 10. One will be a watercolor demonstration with Jan French at 10:30 a.m. (janfrench.com), another will be an oil painting demonstration with Joe McFadden at 1 p.m. (fromreallife.com).
The event is a unique opportunity to support local artists as well as local conservancy efforts
Anthony plays Cinderella, Jon Estes is Prince Topher, who is being manipulated by a politically ambitious, greedy Prime Minister, played by Kate Hofstetter. Cynthia Anthony plays Madame, the overwrought, selfish, and vain stepmother. The stepsisters are played by Ainsley De Costor and Brianna Pacheco.
Jim Brescia proclaims, “The prince is having a ball,” as Lord Pinkleton. Tom Villa is the idealistic peasant seeking to revolutionize the kingdom, Jean-Michele. Veronica Surber is the magical Fairy Godmother, Marie.
Another 25 actors make up the ensemble of townspeople, dancers, knights, and Lords and Ladies of the Court. In addition to the cast, there are another 20 individuals offstage working tirelessly as members of the crews, running tech, serving as ushers, designing and building sets and costumes — without whom there would be no onstage magic.
The Park Ballroom, The Backyard Wine and Beer Garden and San Luis Obispo County Office of Education are the title sponsors for the show. Many other businesses and individuals have contributed to the production, making this a true community effort. Tickets are expected to sell fast. For tickets and more information please visit WineCountryTheatre.org.
to preserve our county’s open spaces. Participating SLOPE artists are Dennis Curry, Jan French, Hilda Freyre, Dotty Hawthorne, Sandi Heller, Daniel Jones, Joe McFadden, Laurel Sherrie, and Jim Tyler. Emeritus artists include Bruce Everett, Anne Laddon, Tracy Paz, Denise Schryver, Rozanne Seitz, and Karen Foster Wells. For details go to slope-painters.com or call (805) 544-9096.
About SLOPE and The Land Conservancy Art Collaboration:
The talented plein air painters of SLOPE collaborate with The Land Conservancy to preserve our precious open spaces, historic ranch lands, waterways, and coastal areas. SLOPE artists create paintings by visiting and working at these treasured sites to capture the beauty and uniqueness of the Central Coast. Members support the Land Conservancy by contributing a portion of art sales to the conservancy.
“Colors of Conservation 2024” celebrates the diverse beauty of Central Coast areas protected by The Land
Conservancy. Learn more about SLOPE, slope-painters.com.
Those who love and value the Central Coast of California for its beauty, wild open spaces, productive family farms, clean water, and stunning landscapes have an opportunity to support the Land Conservancy with a purchase of original artwork by SLOPE artists.
About the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County
The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County is a community-supported local nonprofit land trust working to protect and restore local landscapes for the benefit of people and wildlife. The land trust helps to protect drinking water sources, prevent poorly planned development, restore wildlife habitat, and promote family farmlands and ranches in our region. The Land Conservancy leads collaborative efforts, which have resulted in the permanent protection of over 67,000 acres of land in San Luis Obispo County. For a complete list of projects and properties go to lcslo.org, (805) 544-9096.
Black Mountain” by Laurel Sherrie, oil on canvas, will be part of the “Colors of Conservation” exhibit to be held at the Octagon Barn Centre on Aug. 9-10. Photo provided by Land Conservancy of San
Dr. James Brescia, SLO County Office of Education Superintendent of Schools, stars in Wine Country Theatre’s production of the musical “Cinderella.” Here he is announcing that the prince is having a ball. Photo provided by Wine Country Theatre
