Atascadero News Magazine • #71 • May 2024

“Peter at Hearing Aid Specialists has helped me with my hearing issues since 2011. He is knowledgeable, professional and has provided me with the best equipment available. Losing your hearing is depressing but his expertise helps me feel normal.”

Richard S.

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Schedule your free treatment consultation today. Abby our Patient Care Coordinator is ready to answer your questions. Call us today…

Peter Lucier Hearing Aid Specialist

WWII Veteran and Unsung Hero of the Amphibious Forces

By Christianna Marks

Russ James, a WWII Navy veteran, served in the secretive Amphibious Forces, moving aircraft into occupied territory. Surviving a typhoon, he continued a successful civilian career and remains active in teaching.

Atascadero, Santa Margarita Hikes, Bikes, and Trails

By Maylia Baird

As May brings warmer weather, North County offers a variety of outdoor activities including hikes and bike trails like Gray Pine Trail, Rinconada Trail, and Cerro Alto Loop Trail for all to enjoy.

Best of the West Antique Equipment Show

By Camille DeVaul

The 9th Annual Best of the West Antique Equipment Show celebrates America's heroes and history at Santa Margarita ranch, offering exploration, education, and entertainment.

Publisher’s Letter 06 Something Worth Reading Round Town 10 Downtown Happenings 11 The Natural Alternative

12 Atascadero History: Mabel Lewis

13 Shift'N Gears

14 Locals Celebrate the Moms

Business

22 Spotlight: SLG Senior Care

23 Spotlight: StoryLabs 24 Spotlight: By the Sea Productions 26 Atascadero Chamber of Commerce

Realty Report

SLO County Office of Education

Taste of Americana

May Events

Friends of the Atascadero Lake

Directory of our Advertisers

Photo by Rick Evans

“I’m proud of many things in life but nothing beats being a mother.” - unknown

May holds a special place in my heart, not only because it marks my birthday but also because it is Nic’s and my fifteenth anniversary together and twelve years of marriage. We have journeyed through this life together, learning invaluable lessons and seizing opportunities fueled by our passions. Among these ventures is our publishing company, which allows us to employ remarkable individuals who share our love for our community. The road has not been easy, but with each passing day, my love for Nic deepens. His (our) greying hair serves as a testament to our shared journey of growing old together, a life I couldn’t have envisioned being any more perfect, even on the hard days. I cherish them all.

Additionally, May holds a special significance as we celebrate Mother’s Day. Among all my accomplishments, being a mother stands as the most important. It’s not just a role; it’s the most profound responsibility I will ever hold. In a world that often is filled with chaos, nurturing children who embody kindness and resilience becomes a beacon of hope. We are fortunate to live in a community we love, yet safeguarding it for the future requires raising conscientious stewards. Being their mom is and will be the most important role I will ever have. To all mothers, on this Mother’s Day, please know that your tireless efforts are deeply valued and appreciated.

As we continue to move ahead with our latest project, we are excited to bring the community the Atascadero Marketplace. Branded as the “North County Visitor Center,” it will showcase an array of unique goods from local artisans and branded merchandise representing the Central Coast. This marketplace isn’t just about commerce; it’s a celebration of community spirit, a place where locals and visitors alike can connect over shared passions and discoveries. If you are a local artisan seeking a platform to showcase your creations, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey by submitting your information on our website, atascadero.market. Stay tuned for the grand opening date!

As we wrap up each publication, it’s truly satisfying to see everything come together. We eagerly await the arrival of the printed version for everyone to see. Nic and I are deeply grateful for your continued support, for both our family and our company. Our team takes immense pride in being among the best, and your support means the world to us.

We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of Atascadero News Magazine.

Hayley & Nic

Nic Mattson

Jen Rodman AD

John Nygaard

Christianna Marks

Dana McGraw

Ellie Baisch

Barbie Butz

CONTRIBUTORS

Jaime Silveira

James Brescia, Ed.D

Angela Cisneros

Shift'N Gears The Natural Alternative Blake Ashley

June

PUBLICATION

May 31, 2024

ADVERTISING DEADLINE

May 10, 2024

For more advertising information, contact our advertising representatives above, or see our media kit at: atascaderomagazine.com/advertise

if thou wouldest win immortality of name, either do things worth the writing, or write things worth the reading

— Thomas Fuller, 1727

This month’s edition of Atascadero News Magazine is brought to you by all the local advertisers that fill our pages. Thanks to them, we are able to bring you your local Hometown Magazine.

May Madness in Atascadero

Tamales, and Fireworks: A Weekend of Festivities ANGELA CISNEROS

The first weekend of May is the kind of Spring weekend where you turn off your work email and texts to hang out with friends and family. You won’t be sitting around, though; Atascadero has wine, tamales, fireworks, dancing, and music, just to name a few things, to keep the weekend lively!

May 3, aka Fiesta Friday, starts off with the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce hosting Sip and Shop, where you’ll taste local wine while strolling through downtown, visiting our great businesses, and catching up with your bestie. You’ll also be able to stroll through the tamale vendors for the Tamale Festival because they will be open, and you can get all the tamales you want without waiting in a long line the next day at the Tamale Festival. (It’s a local secret, so I’m trusting

you to keep it quiet!)

When you’re done, get dinner to-go at one of our downtown restaurants, like Streetside Alehouse, Mr. Q’s, Cielo’s, Byblos Mediterranean, Wild Fields Brewhouse, or Pho 4 U and watch the fireworks from a blanket in Sunken Gardens. You can even head to the roof top bar at Cielo to see them flash across the sky. My personal favorite will be a Brewhouse Bahn Mi from Wild Fields Brewhouse (and yes, vegetarians, it is delicious) while sitting in a comfy chair! Save some vigor for the 8th annual Tamale Festival on Saturday, May 4, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Sunken Gardens. Come hungry and ready for a full day of family fun! One of my favorite things is watching the dancing horses. It is incredible to see those beautiful horses moving with precision and skill. If you have a furry pet, dress them up for the annual pet contest! Be sure to wear comfortable shoes to dance to the live music and peruse the great merchandise and food vendors. And, someone will be crowned the Tamale

Champion! There is so much going on that day, and you can find out more at atascaderotamalefest.com

Come celebrate moms at the Charles Paddock Zoo on May 12! If you have littles, this is a great way to spend the afternoon with all the Mother’s Day surprises happening at the Zoo that day. Afterward, let them play at the Atascadero Lake Park’s playground to get them really tired so that you can have some Mother’s Day quiet time.

Speaking of Mother’s Day, May would be a great time to schedule a personalized shopping experience at Anna & Co. for you and mom or for you and your mom besties. Set your heavy purse down while Anna and her staff give you one-on-one time to help you choose clothes that look great on you. They will even set a few pieces aside for your significant other to pick up for you! Anna & Co also has a variety of home décor to spruce things up at home, it is a one-stop shop!

Cheers to a month with fireworks, tamales, and celebrating mom!

As the days lengthen and the sun warms the earth, May emerges as a month of renewal and growth. And hidden beneath the forest canopy, a quiet transformation takes place — one that involves the humble yet enchanting world of mushrooms. Mushrooms are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious! Mushrooms are a low-calorie food that packs a nutritional punch. They contain essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and immune function.

Powerhouse of nutrients

Mushrooms are a rich source of potassium, which helps counteract the negative effects of sodium on the body. By reducing tension in blood vessels, potassium may contribute to lowering blood pressure. Consuming edible mushrooms has also been linked to improved gut and brain health. In summary, mushrooms are not just a tasty addition to your meals; they’re a powerhouse of nutrients that can positively impact your health. Mushrooms can be a safe and effective addition to your diet or supplement regimen.

Introduction to Adaptogens

Adaptogens are remarkable plant substances that assist our bodies in managing stress, anxiety, and fatigue. These natural wonders promote overall well-being by helping us adapt to external stressors. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of adaptogens:

Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ganoderma lucidum or lingzhi, offer a range of potential health benefits. Let’s explore some of them:

Reishi mushrooms have been studied for their immune-enhancing properties. Reishi can affect genes in white blood cells, which play a critical

role in our immune system. Reishi is consumed by many due to its potentially positive effects on inflammation and the signaling pathways involved in the development of cancers. Beyond immune benefits, reishi may also reduce fatigue and depression. Reishi mushrooms may promote heart health and can help protect cells from oxidative damage.

Cordyceps, a fascinating genus of parasitic fungi, has garnered attention for its potential health benefits. Here are six promising benefits of Cordyceps, backed by science. Cordyceps may enhance exercise capacity by increasing the body’s production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which delivers energy to muscles. Traditionally used to reduce fatigue and boost strength, Cordyceps may have anti-aging potential.

Cordyceps is believed to benefit lung, liver, kidney, and immune health. Some studies suggest Cordyceps may help lower cholesterol levels and may provide Neuroprotective and Renoprotective Effects.

This month at The Natural Alternative we’re offering 20 percent off Reishi, Cordyceps and many more products by Host Defense, stop by and stock up! We will be hosting another Let’s Learn class on May 17 from 12 to 4 p.m. in store focusing on mushrooms and how they can help you along your health journey. Don’t miss out on some wonderful samples and discounts! We look forward to helping you, The Team @

The Legacy of Mabel Lewis:

An Overlooked Force in Atascadero’s History

IBy The Atascadero News Editorial Board

n the record books of Atascadero’s history, alongside the visionary founder E.G. Lewis, stands his remarkable wife, Mabel Lewis. Though her name might not echo as loudly, her impact and contributions to our community are equally important.

Mabel and E.G. Lewis’s union began in 1890, a time when the suffragette movement was gaining momentum across the United States. Their marriage was not just a personal partnership but a shared commitment to women’s rights and empowerment. Together, they ventured into the world of publishing, creating magazines tailored to uplift and inspire women. Their joint efforts extended beyond mere publications; Mabel took a leading role in establishing the American Women’s League. This coalition of women’s organizations worked tirelessly to promote subscriptions to popular periodicals, amplifying the voices of women in an era where their rights were still fiercely contested.

The couple’s journey led them to Atascadero in 1913, where they embarked on a new chapter of their lives. According to Mabel Lewis’s obituary published in the April 26, 1935, issue of the Atascadero News, she was president of the league around the time they moved to Atascadero in 1913.

Beyond the work she did for the woman's movement, Mabel

loved the arts and animals which led her to create the city’s first zoo, situated behind the Lewis's residence, now the Vons shopping center. This sanctuary hosted a variety of animals, cared for by Mabel and the community.

Mabel also devoted her time to the artistic side of planning and developing the planned community of Atascadero. She laid out extensive private gardens in the new community. One of her crowning achievements, her obituary said, was her founding the Atascadero Music Club, which had music lovers all over the county in membership. In “Order No. 10” by E.G. Lewis, he poignantly expresses his anguish at being separated from his wife. “The strain has been too much for her this past year. Now she is away. If there is a larger, more empty, vacant, miserable, howling wilderness of a vacuum void than this particular neighborhood, I hope something will fall into it and fill it quickly. You can have the mile square of real estate, the bank, the house, automobiles, horses, cats, even the publishing company if you will just give me back my everyday sweetheart, and no questions asked.” This heartfelt plea underscores the depth of their love and the personal sacrifices they made for their shared vision.

With her love of music, beauty and community, Mabel Lewis left a treasured legacy of progress and advocacy for women’s rights.

References from the Atascadero Historical Society, City of Atascadero, and Atascadero News Historic Records

Hi!

Welcome to The Gearhead Corner!

e are Jimmy & Leigh-Ann of Shift’N Gears Auto Repair in Paso Robles. If you don’t know us already, we are both locals who decided to give back to our community and open up an ASE Master Certified full-service auto repair shop. We are here to provide a voice for the automotive industry and provide a go-to resource for you and any questions you might have. You can always call Shift’N Gears Auto Repair and get high quality, friendly service for your auto needs.

ODE TO MOM:

In the grand symphony of human innovation, cars stand as the mothers of invention, orchestrating our modern lives with wheels of progress. And what better time to celebrate their transformative power than Mother’s Day? Yes, you heard it right — let’s take a whimsical journey and explore why cars are the ultimate maternal figure of invention.

Firstly, let’s appreciate the sheer versatility of cars. Like the multitasking marvels we call mothers, cars seamlessly juggle a myriad of roles. But it’s not just their adaptability that earns cars their maternal stripes; it’s

their nurturing spirit of innovation. Just as mothers guide their children through life’s twists and turns, cars have ushered us into new eras of our lives and the technological marvels that accompany them. From the first Model T rolling off the assembly line to the electric vehicles whispering silently into the future, cars embody the maternal instinct to nurture progress.

Let’s not forget the lessons cars teach us about resilience. They weather storms, conquer mountains, and push the boundaries of what’s possible. In doing so, they remind us that with determination and grit, we can overcome any obstacle — just like Mom always taught us.

So, this Mother’s Day, as we shower our mothers with love and gratitude, let’s also tip our hats to the unsung heroines of the road — the cars that have shaped our lives in more ways than we can imagine. After all, whether it’s a family road trip or a spontaneous adventure, cars are always there, ready to embrace us with open doors and an engine’s comforting purr. Here’s to you, Mom, and to the cars that drive us forward, mile after mile ...

Celebrating Moms Community photos of cherished moments with their mothers.

Top left to right: Niki and Grace Baca; Melissa and Kynlie; Debra Bolton and daughter Grace at Lake Havasu in 2022.; Jen Shreeves-Dawson, Katie Shreeves, Anna Shreeves-Rainwater, Pam (mom) Shreeves in 1990; Shelly Wilson and her sister and mom in 1980; Payton and mom Tisha Tucker in 2016; Kate and Melie Boggs; Sarah Taylor Maggelet and her son at Havasupai and Havasu Falls.

Top left to right: Melissa and her sister Allison and mom Beth in 1999; Angela Ramsey and daughter Erika Norris at Phoenix Raceway in 2021; Giovanna and son Ryder Woods; Natasha (mom) Selah, Brixton and Benson Sanchez; Christina and her mother Margarita who passed in 2022; Kellie and baby Emma

Russ James

WWII Veteran and Unsung Hero of the Amphibious Forces

By Christianna Marks

Russ James was born in Texas in 1926. In 1937, his family relocated to Los Angeles, where he did most of his growing up and going to school. But his love of airplanes had him going back to Texas during his summers off, and ultimately led him to enlist in the Navy at the age of 17 in 1943 and would serve his country until 1945.

“Every summer, as soon as school was out, I would catch a train back to Texas, back to my uncle. He had an airfield out there. So I was raised around airplanes my whole life,” Russ said.

Russ flew his first airplane when he was 14 and fell in love with being behind the cockpit. His need to take to the skies is why he decided to join the Navy. His main goal was to fly airplanes.

“I knew if I could get in [to the Navy], I could show them I could fly the airplanes because I flew everything you could think of before I was 17,” added Russ.

However, the Navy didn’t let soldiers behind the cockpit until they turned 18, so it took some time before Russ could show off his skills flying military planes like B-52s. By that point, the Amphibious Forces had been created. Russ was

stationed in the South Pacific and would fly out from Barbers Point in Hawaii for the next 30 months of his military career.

“I turned 18 about the time the Amphibious Forces were getting put together. They’d never had anything like the Amphibious Forces prior to this time,” continued Russ. “We were the first group that could do all land, sea, and air.”

The Amphibious Forces were a super secretive unit, and during the war, not many people knew they existed. In fact, people today still don’t know a ton about their existence.

“Mainly, we were very little-known because they didn’t want anybody to know about how those airplanes got down there ahead of time,” Russ shared.

The Naval section of the Amphibious Forces, which included all branches of the military, would move B-52s and Douglas SBD Dauntless Bombers into occupied territory after an island was taken over.

“That was the easy part of our job. We’d do the fly by after an island was taken over. They would clear the airfield, and we would move the aircraft in because the next island would be so far away,”

Russ explained. “When they had the invasions, we would go down in the fifth wave. This is after the troops are already in and some of the heavy artillery is going in. After the heavy artillery went in, we would go in and set up a radio communication with the two hospital ships.”

The soldiers would make their reports by flashing lights or using Morris Code, but it was mainly Morris Code that was used. That was skill that Russ used to create a evening newspaper every time he was aboard a ship.

“I put out a newspaper every evening. They [the troops] loved to see the Amphibious Forces come aboard their ship because they could get a newspaper every day. But we would only stay aboard the ship long enough for them to get to another island where we were setting up and doing our thing.”

Out of the six men who were a part of Russ’s unit, only three came home after their 30 months of serving in the South Pacific. In fact, there were many times when Russ barely made it back himself. Including when he got caught up in Typhoon Louise on October 9, 1945, which sunk the ship SC 686, which Russ was on.

“I was out on the water at least a day and a half,

• Russ James

floating around,” Russ said. “I gave up before a rouge wave came along, and it must have been as big as that island because it pushed us right up on the island, and I hung on to a palm tree, wrapped my arms around it.”

Russ survived the typhoon but ended up getting malaria while on the island, which saved his life. Three brave Marines snuck into Japanese Territory and stole fish heads to make soup to get him the protein needed by his body.

“To this day, I don’t like fish. It was terrible,” Russ stated. “I went back to Hawaii, and they got me well again, but I’m fortunate to be here.”

Upon returning to civilian life, Russ attended the Don Martin School of Radio and Television Arts and Sciences on the G.I. bill.

“I took a radio broadcasting course along with an engineering course,” said Russ.

When he got out of school, there were two radio stations he could have worked for, but San Luis Obispo was one tank of gas away, and he didn’t have money for two tanks, so he moved his now-late wife and their children up north in 1952 and started working at KVEC, before leaving to build cable systems in 1964.

“The reason I came to San Luis Obispo was one tank of gas, and they

wanted to put up a television station. They were waiting for their license to come in. So, as soon as it came in, myself and Charlie Mitchell found a spot outside of Santa Barbara called Black Hill or something like that. We could pick up eight channels from Los Angeles, brought them into San Luis Obispo and put it on top of that mountain over here and brought them right into an area where we could pick up eight channels pretty well for $4.75 a month,” added Russ of his initial job in SLO.

Before he retired, almost 98-year-old Russ worked at the California Mid-State Fair doing publicity, promotions, and special events during the summer, and then during the school year, Russ drove a school bus. Russ even owned and flew airplanes after his four kids were out of school.

“Right now, I am a very happy and contented person,” Russ shared. The reason I am is that I have four successful children.”

Even though Russ is fully retired, that hasn’t slowed him down much. He’s currently teaching Bible Beliefs and Scriptual Memory classes out of his home to four students that he enjoys sharing his knowledge with.

Thank you for your service and your stories, Russ.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

OCTOBER 19 & 20, 2024

BOTH SHOWS AT 2PM

Carmen

George Bizet’s

The Most Famous Opera of All Time Produced at Grand Scale!

HIKES BIKES & TRAILS ATASCADERO

By Maylia Baird

Now that May has arrived, the weather is warmer but not too hot yet, which makes leaving the house sound more appealing, and makes outdoor activities even more enjoyable. Regardless of whether you prefer long hikes, short ones, simple walks, or specifically good bike trails, there are lots of options here in North County! Whether you are looking for some local hikes to try or just want to get outside more this spring, here are some suggestions.

Atascadero Lake Park Walk

This is an easy and fun walk if you want to get outside and get a quick walk in. The Atascadero Lake Park Walk is 1.3-miles long and circles the Atascadero Lake. Lots of locals walk this trail weekly and even daily because it is so close to downtown and so approachable. It takes an average of 25 minutes to complete

Stadium Park

Jim Green Trail

This is a 1.6-mile loop trail located in Atascadero and is considered an easy route. It takes about 40 minutes to complete and, aside from walking, is popular for horseback riding and mountain biking. You are also welcome to walk your dogs on a leash. On this hike, you will have a view of the Chalk Mountain Golf Course and see lots of oak trees and wildlife — especially deer!

If you are heading south on Highway 101, take exit 218B for Curbaril Avenue and turn left. Then turn right onto Cortez Avenue. Your destination will be on the left.

and you will likely see people walking the trail on the gravel but you can also bike along the trail on the road since it is paved.

Head West onto Morro Road (Highway 41) for about 1.2 miles and then turn left on Portola Road and your destination will be on your right.

There are a few routes you can go once you get to Stadium Park in Atascadero. You can either take the Pine Mountain Loop, Blue Oak, Alps, or Marj Mackey trail. They are all 2-mile loops and are in close radius of each other. Each is estimated to take about an hour to complete. These trails are thought to be moderately difficult and are considered by many hikers to be well-maintained. A main highlight of this trail is

that at the top you have a panoramic view of the city of Atascadero, the Colony Park, and Colony Cinema Theater. You will likely be surrounded by many oak trees during this hike as well.

Head southeast on El Camino Real toward Traffic Way. Turn left onto Traffic Way and then right onto Lewis Avenue and then left onto Capistrano Avenue. Turn right onto Hospital Avenue and both trail entrances will be found on your right.

Cerro Alto

This is a 4.7-mile loop trail in Atascadero on the road to Morro Bay. It is considered a challenging hike and is estimated to take 3 hours to complete. Many also horseback ride, mountain bike, as well as camp here. Bring your dogs but they are asked to be leashed. You will likely encounter streams of water and many types of plants along the trail. Once you reach the top, there will be a stunning 360 view of 7 Sisters Mountain Range and the Morro Bay rock and stacks in the distance. Head onto CA 41 S (Morro Road) for about 8.7 miles. Turn left onto Cerro Alto Road and your destination will be on your right.

SANTA MARGARITA

Gray Pine Trail

This is a “there and back” 6.8-mile hike in Santa Margarita. It’s a considerably challenging route and takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete. So if you’re looking for an extensive trail, this would be a fun way to get a good workout in and cover some beautiful landscape! In addition to simply walking the trail, people also mountain bike, and dogs are welcome but owners are asked to have them on a leash. On this trail, you will overlook the Santa Margarita Lake, and in April, there are said to be lots of wildflowers.

From US 101 South, use the right lane to take the ramp to CA-58, merge onto El Camino Real and then take a right onto CA-58 E. Continue on West Pozo Road until you take a slight left onto Santa Margarita Lake Road. Turn right onto Rocky Trail and continue straight for less than a mile until you fund Grey Pine Loop on your right.

Montebello Oaks Trail

This trail is located in Paso and is 2.1 miles out-and-back. It is considered an easy trek and takes about 50 minutes to complete. This trail is popular for hiking, mountain biking, walking your dog, and running. It’s situated in a neighborhood and you’re likely to see lots of birds, oak trees, and wildflowers in the spring!

To find the entrance to this trail, follow Montebello Oaks Drive, past the Kleck Road intersection, and onto Vista Oaks Way. The entrance will be found just before Victoria Court.

Antique Equipment Show

By Camille DeVaul

Born out of love for heritage and community, the 9th Annual Best of the West Antique Equipment Show returns to the historical Santa Margarita Ranch this Memorial Day Weekend, May 24 through May 26.

Organized by the Paso Robles Pioneer Day Committee and the Rossi Foundation, this annual event promises a weekend filled with exploration, education, and entertainment, all while benefiting the Paso Robles Pioneer Day Parade and festivities. The weekend welcomes families and the community to come together to celebrate agricultural heritage while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.

Preparing for the big weekend starts months in advance to get the stars of the show ready. Chair of the Paso Robles Pioneer Day Tractor Committee, Austin Sligh, spoke with us about what it takes to get the tractors and equipment ready for Best of the West.

Following Pioneer Day, Austin and the committee take a thourough look at the equipment, taking note of anything that needs to be fixed, restorations that may be needed, and they create check list of everything that needs to be done in time for Memorial Day weekend.

“Whether it be tearing things apart and complete overhauls of components or whether it just be service oils, greases, things like that,” Austin explained.

The Pioneer Day Committee owns around 40 pieces of tractors and equipment, most of which came from local farms and ranches of generational families. Other committee members or locals bring out their equipment to join the show, too.

A few weeks before Best of the West, all of the equipment gets pulled out of the barns for a good washing and tune up. Then, everything is loaded up and taken out to the Santa Margarita Ranch. Some tractors and equipment from out of state even make it out to the ranch to be shown off for the community.

“One of the big things we do every morning is that we treat them, not only our tractors, but anyone’s who’s there, they all get checked for water, they all get checked for oil and we treat everybody the same,” Austin said.

Santa Margarita Ranch poses as the perfect location to enjoy a family gathering outside and teach the younger generations

about the heritage of our area.

“The tractors are a huge part of it [the show],” explained Austin, “I mean, the tractors attract the people, but to get the community involved is really what we’re after.”

Austin, a North County local, attended Best of the West during one of the event’s first years. From there, he was hooked.

“It started with just helping, helping with one and then getting a tractor going that had been sitting along the fence for Lord knows how many years,” Austin said as he recalled working with a friend to get that tractor in shape and then driving it in his first Pioneer Day Parade. “And then, as time goes on, everyone down there becomes family. So I live and breathe it.”

Now, tractors and Pioneer Day have become a part of his family, “My kids are up and coming. They’re still pretty little, but my house is full of tractors as well, too.”

For Austin, one of the best parts of the Best of the West weekend is seeing the kids get excited to see the tractors and hear them start up.

“To see the looks on their faces when you start [the tractor] ... when we start parading those things around, just the looks on their faces [is rewarding],” said Austin.

And by getting the youth excited about the equipment, it, in turn, hopefully brings them a little closer to agriculture.

Austin adds that “[Pioneer Day] was started to show appreciation for the farmers in the community. And I think it’s extremely important to keep it with that goal in mind.”

Many fan-favorite activities will be back at the ranch, including the Farm Bureau’s tri-tip dinners and other food vendors (including a bar), parades, and the Kid’s Corral. At noon each day, all operations will pause for a military salute and flyover courtesy of the Estrella Warbirds.

“There’s tractor shows, but there’s none like Best of the West. But the diversity of not only the tractors but the wagons, everything for the families, the kids corral the food, the airplane flyovers, the military salutes, all of the military vehicles we have.”

“I invite everyone to bring their families, come down, and at least try it.”

For more information on tickets, trailer camping, volunteering, and all the show has to offer, visit bestofthewestshow.com.

Photos by Rick Evans

By Blake Ashley Frino-Gerl

After developing online educational programs on WebMD for doctors and their patients for 12 years, Sue Gibson decided it was time to own a business and truly give back to others. Highlighting her decision due to her dad’s dementia and finding him a place to live, she started SLG Senior Care in San Mateo County in 2014 and San Luis Obispo County in 2020.

SLG Senior Care offers senior placement for clients in search of a fitting home. She has relationships with 110 senior living homes and communities, helping her clients identify the best possible options.

“I do an in-depth assessment to understand the client’s profile — health issues, geographic preferences, financial situation, housing

preferences, etc.,” Gibson explains. “Once I understand the full picture, I go into my database and pull 3-4 options that would be a great fit.” She gives her client a fact sheet on each home or community and then sets up a tour. They use a checklist to narrow down the best home.

Gibson provides clients with several follow-up meetings after they move to be sure everything is going accordingly, along with a welcome gift. She assists with physician paperwork and resources like financial planners, estate planners, notaries, movers, and move managers — “I am a one-stop shop for my clients,” Gibson says.

Mainly servicing clients looking for senior living communities within SLO County,

she also helps people moving elsewhere as a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) with over 300 CSA contacts nationally to partner with. Gibson co-chairs SLO’s annual Alzheimer’s Association walk and is the District 2 representative for the Commission on Aging. She is also on the board of the California Central Coast Estate Planning Council.

“I enjoy helping families first and foremost. It brings me great joy to save them time and headaches navigating through 110 options in SLO county to find the best choice,” Gibson adds.

SLG SENIOR CARE

11608 Cardelina Ln, Atascadero slgseniorcare.com (415) 656-6869

Abrand new co-working space, StoryLabs, has opened its doors at The Co-Op, the recently renovated building in south Atascadero. The Co-Op is run by co-founders Greg Squires of StoryLabs and Josh Berg of Beautiful Feet Books, who took what used to be a furniture store and, before that, a hardware store and turned it into a beautiful place for people to let their life and work stories bloom.

"We're really looking to build community here. People come for co-working to focus and be productive; we often need something better than the coffee shop and less distracting than the home," said Greg about The Co-Op. "But it's not just about heads-down-work. People connect and learn from others as we

By Christianna Marks

share our stories and business ideas."

The Co-Op isn't StoryLabs' first foray into co-working spaces. They also started one at Atascadero Bible Church (ABC), now called Bloom. They also had a co-working space in San Luis Obispo that is currently being rented out by a single tenant.

Greg and Josh reside in Atascadero with their families, with Josh living here for seven years and Greg being here for 15 years, respectively. They partnered with the shared intent to operate businesses and make a positive economic impact on the area.

"We believe that our North County region needs unique places where workers can be inspired and new things can be incubated," added Greg. "We welcome any remote

worker, local artisan, or solopreneur to bring their business puzzles or pitches to our Story Hour workshops."

The Co-Op has been in construction mode for six months, and after a bright and colorful overhaul, it's open. Inside, North County residents will find community, mentorship, and support. The space is more than three-quarters full with most of their suites spoken for. Other maker spaces, flex desks, and meeting rooms are available. On top of that, they offer day passes, too. STORYLABS THE CO-OP 8965 El Camino Real, Atascadero StoryLabs.work

By Blake Ashley Frino-Gerl

y The Sea Productions (BTSP) is Morro Bay’s only live theater company. Its members aspire to create a community through their passion for theater and storytelling with an intent to provide quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy.

Formerly the Pewter Plough Players in Cambria, they moved to Morro Bay in January 2017 and adopted their new name. BTSP is a volunteer-based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with a Morro Bay business license. Its location is now at St. Peter’s by the Sea Episcopal Church, where performances take place on a permanent stage in Erickson Hall.

Board members include President Rhonda

Crowfoot, Vice President Sam Gottlieb, Secretary Janice Peters, Treasurer Kelli M. Poward, and Directors Anita Schwaber, Sheridan Cole, Jean Miller, and Russell Snow. The members have many roles, including as performers.

“We are delighted to be in our seventh season of stage productions in Morro Bay,” Crowfoot says. “This year is especially exciting because we presented the world premiere of an original musical revue, 'It Takes Two,’ which played to sold out shows.”

BTSP is a member of the Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce and makes it a point contribute to the economy by utilizing local businesses. It also donates tickets for

fundraisers as well as partner with the church in awarding a Morro Bay High School student scholarship each year.

“Local support has been enthusiastic and our audiences are growing with each show, often to full houses (50 seats),” Peters says. “Other than acting, my favorite part of BTSP is getting to know our audience members, both local and from out of town. It's rewarding to know we've given them an enjoyable evening or afternoon's entertainment.”

BY THE SEA PRODUCTIONS

P.O. Box 2032 Morro Bay bytheseaproductions.org (805) 776-3287

Business • Atascadero Chamber of Commerce

5 Star Medical Inc. 5starmedicalinc.com

Aspire Institute for Contractors theaspireinstitute.com

Atascadero Athletic Booster Club AHSGREYHOUNDBOOSTERS.com

Atascadero Auxiliary VFW 2814 vfwpost2814.org/auxiliary-2814.html

Atascadero Tanz (805) 460-6249

Bodega de Edgar bodegadeedgar.com

Central Coast Carriage Co.

Cohen Legal cohenlegals.com

Covelop, Inc. Covelop.net

James Renfro Patterson (Civic Member)

Kinetix PT kinetixphysicaltherapy.com

Queen Bee Caramels (805) 720-5992

SLO Credit Union slocu.com

SLO Ranch and Sea Realty rwickliffe.sloranchandsearealty.com

Struxture Central Coast struxurecentralcoast.com

The Ravine Waterpark ravinewaterpark.com

Tachi Palace and Casino Resort tachipalace.com

The Gala Pride & Diversity Center galacc.org

Trailer Hitch RV Center trailerhitchrv.com

Truly Gifted truly-gifted.com

TS Interiors tsinteriors.co.za

HBA MEMBERS

Braiding and Hair Supply braidsbyana.com

Burritos Express Atascadero burritoexpressatascaderoca.com

Casita de Justica casitadejusticia.com

Elegant Bridal Alterations Central Coast Tuxedos

Miramar Western Wear & Feed Atascadero

la-miramar-musica-y-mas.business.site

Miramar Western Wear & Feed

Paso Robles

la-miramar-musica-y-mas.business.site

THE CORE OF AN IMPACTFUL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

By Josh Cross • CEO/President Chamber of Commerce

There are two types of chambers: 3C chambers and 3P chambers. 3C Chambers are catalysts for business growth; they are conveners bringing people together and champions of a thriving community. They make a big impact in even the smallest of places. Meanwhile, the 3P chambers focus on parades, pageants, and parties. No one except the "stars of the shows" flourish with 3P chambers; even then, the results are temporary. 3P chambers often run their teams ragged, chasing after the next pageant, leaving their business community forgotten. The difference between these two chambers is staggering, and it is easy to see which creates a lasting positive impact for their community.

Each community that a chamber serves is different, with unique needs. Chambers across the country are diverse, but there's a running thread between all impactful chambers. They all focus on the 3Cs and tailor them to local businesses' needs. That's what the Atascadero Chamber team strives to do. Every day, our team acts as a catalyst in developing initiatives and programs like the Get Your Business Online!, Jr. C.E.O., Shop Local Bonus, Workforce Development, and more that help our community. We regularly bring people together through events like our Membership Mixers, The State of Atascadero, Sip & Shop, and

UPCOMING

more, connecting businesses with customers. Our Chamber has regularly spoken out on behalf of local businesses, acting as a champion to serve their best interests and our community's.

Our Chamber is making a difference in our community! But don't just take my word for it. At the Western Association of Chamber Executives (W.A.C.E.) This year, our Chamber was recognized with four different awards for our impact. We won first place for our website, which speaks to our ability to connect residents and visitors with local businesses online. Then, we won the Outstanding Achievement Video award for our series #AtascaderoUncovered, telling the stories of incredible Atascadero businesses. Our Get Your Business Online! program that helps local businesses get started with a free website, won the award for Outstanding Chamber Program. Last but not least, our newsletter informing our community and local businesses of updates received a second place, Special Merit award.

Our Chamber is a 3C chamber. Our team loves working every day to help empower our business community. But we couldn't do it without you! Your support and participation in our programs, events, and member opportunities make our work possible. By working together, we can continue to grow and thrive!

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

*Register for events at atascaderochamber.org or call (805) 466-2044.

Sip & Shop

Friday, May 3 | 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Location: Downtown Atascadero Tickets: $25 | Day Of The Event $30

Cheers to springtime fun! Enjoy 20+ wine tastings in downtown Atascadero during our May Sip & Shop. Teachers – as a thank you for your hard work for students in our community, we're giving you $5 off your ticket. Stop by the Atascadero Chamber Office or call us at (805) 466-2044 to purchase your ticket.

Membership Mixer

Thursday, May 16 | 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Location: ALF Food Pantry 5411 El Camino Real

Join us for this month's Membership Mixer on May 16 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the ALF Food Pantry. This will be an exceptional opportunity to connect with local business leaders and engage with our remarkable community! Small bites and drinks will be provided.

Women of Influence North County (wINC) Mixer

Tuesday, May 28 | 5:30 – 8:00 p.m..

Location: Wild Fields Brewhouse

Connect and meet other incredible women on the Central Coast during our quarterly wINC Mixers! Hosted at Wild Fields Brewhouse in partnership with AAUW in downtown Atascadero, admission is completely free and is open to everyone.

Rosemary Chicken Portobello Penne Pasta Shrimp Scampi with Roasted Tomatoes

Building Your Team: The

Success of your Real Estate Transaction Depends on

it

OWNER/BROKER

MALIK REAL ESTATE GROUP

BRE #01706045

Iam constantly reading up and staying informed about what is happening in the real estate industry as well as our local market. Of late, it seems the value of putting together a top-notch real estate team can not be understated when making sure your purchase or sale of your home runs as smoothly as possible.

The National Association of Realtors (N.A.R.) has put together a 7-step bulleted list of reasons why buyers should work with a Realtor. Because I know first hand the value added when working with a professional Realtor, I wanted to share it. This list is as follows:

1. Act as an expert guide. Buying a home typically requires a variety of forms, reports, disclosures, and other legal and financial documents. A knowledgeable real estate agent will know what’s required in your market, helping you avoid delays and costly mistakes. Also, there’s a lot of jargon involved in a real estate transaction; you want to work with a professional who can speak the language.

2. Offer objective information and opinions. A great real estate agent will guide you through the home search with an unbiased eye, helping you meet your buying objectives while staying within your budget. Agents are also a great source when you have questions about local amenities, utilities, zoning rules, contractors, and more.

3. Give you expanded search power.

You want access to the full range of opportunities. Using a cooperative system called the multiple listing service, your agent can help you evaluate all active listings that meet your criteria, alert you to listings soon to come on the market, and provide data on recent sales. Your agent can also save you time by helping you winnow away properties that are still appearing on public sites but are no longer on the market.

4. Stand in your corner during negotiations. There are many factors up for discussion in any real estate transaction—from price to repairs to possession date. A real estate professional who’s representing you will look at the transaction from your perspective, helping you negotiate a purchase agreement that meets your needs and allows you to do due diligence before you’re bound to the purchase.

5. Ensure an up-to-date experience. Most people buy only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years between purchases. Even if you’ve bought a home before, laws and regulations change. Real estate practitioners may handle hundreds or thousands of transactions over the course of their career.

6. Be your rock during emotional moments. A home is so much more than four walls and a roof. And for most buyers, a home is the biggest purchase they’ll ever make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you stay focused on the issues most important to you when emotions threaten to sink an otherwise sound transaction.

7. Provide fair and ethical treatment. When you’re interviewing agents, ask if they’re a

REALTOR®, a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. Every member must adhere to the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, which is based on professionalism, serving the interests of clients, and protecting the public.

At a minimum, these steps are what a quality real estate professional should provide. In addition, your local expert will guide you through the nuances that a unique area demands. I am sure you will agree, our beautiful Central Coast cities are areas that draw attention and may not fit standard or typical scenarios found in more urban real estate markets.

Further, when building your team, your professional Realtor’s affiliations and connections with professionals in the industry are extremely important. Lenders, for example, are critical to the process and should be part of the conversation from the very beginning. From first-time homebuyers to those wanting to relocate and need to sell an existing home before purchasing a new one, to investors, etc. With different client needs, there are many avenues for financing that only a professional in the industry can present to you. Did I mention that local is best? From your Realtor to your lender to every individual that is part of what we call the “transaction,” a local professional can understand our market and help guide you through as smoothly as possible.

The value behind your real estate team can make or break your sale or purchase of a home. Make sure you interview your agent and ask the tough questions. Your agent should be well versed in the local real estate market, allowing them to properly direct you.

The complete list can also be read at nar. realtor/magazine/tools/client-education/ handouts-for-buyers/7-reasons-to-workwith-a-realtor

JAIME SILVEIRA

Celebrating the Community Educational

JAMES BRESCIA, ED.D

S“Children must be taught to think, not what to think.”

– Margaret Mead

an Luis Obispo County celebrates the success and demonstrates appreciation for many talented educational employees throughout May. Our California’s Day of the Teacher arose from legislation co-sponsored by the CTA and the Association of Mexican American Educators in 1982. Since then, every year in May, we honor instructional excellence in our schools, community colleges, and universities. National Teacher Day is Tuesday, May 7. In 1986, California Senate Bill 1552 (Campbell) established the third week of May as Classified School Employee Week in order to recognize the vital contributions of classified employees. The California Department of Education encourages an annual recognition of school administrators on May 1 to celebrate those serving in leadership positions within our schools.

This year, the Educational Employees Credit Union has joined forces with the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education and is hosting a series of thank-you activities throughout the county to recognize employees

moments to acknowledge how valuable our employees are and how they impact generations of students.

Almost all of us have experienced the transformative power of effective school employees first-hand. Over my 40 years serving in the field, I have encountered many exceptional teaching and non-teaching school employees. These support staff members and educators are passionate about their service and demonstrate genuine care for the students in charge. Dedicated professionals inspire us to explore ideas, think deeply, accept the challenge, and embrace rigor. Hollywood films portray some of our colleagues, such as Anne Sullivan, Jaime Escalante, and Erin Gruwell, on a grand scale of the big screen. However, thousands of our support staff and faculty are truly unsung heroes who faithfully serve daily. I encourage everyone reading this article to take time and thank those who serve the students enrolled in our schools throughout San Luis Obispo County.

Our democracy needs and demands informed citizens. Consequently, our nation’s

degree of liberty.”

It is critically important not only for children but also for our country. Education enables its citizens to develop their full potential, which allows our democracy to flourish. It is about helping individuals learn, grow, and create a prosperous society.

Public service can bring about extraordinary transformation in our society. Public servants are role models; their actions convey more than words, and our students learn from those in the educational community. Everyone who works in our schools can positively contribute to the lives of our students, especially in their formative years. Today’s teachers, custodians, bus drivers, clerks, administrators, assistants, and all other educational employees hold immense potential to bring about positive change in our society by demonstrating a duty of care. Join me in celebrating these outstanding individuals who embody the essential elements of educational excellence. It is an honor to serve as your County Superintendent of Schools.

Memory makers and rolls

Collecting things is not an uncommon habit and often shows signs early in life. I remember, as a small child, collecting certain small shells each time my family went to the beach. I kept them in a special box in my bedroom. I loved to spill them out and examine each one again and again. I think I must have had that box until I went away to college, and after that, it seemed to disappear, probably when my parents moved after I was married.

But collecting can be a good thing. It can be a "memory-maker." For instance, when I started collecting cookbooks, it gave me something to look for when we traveled. We loved antiquing, and we could spend hours haunting antique stores. I tried to find cookbooks that were old and related to the "flavor" of the area we were in, or the period they were published.

When my mother passed, I inherited her collection of recipes that included recipes from my grandmother, my aunt, and my great-aunt. I have so enjoyed reading their recipes and remembering times when our family was together enjoying the results of those dishes.

I recently went through a cute little recipe box of my mother's and found the recipes I'm sharing with you now. The thrill for me was the dates she had included on the recipes. One was dated 1934 and was from her home ec class when she was a senior in high school, in Norman, Oklahoma. The second one was dated 1936, the year I was born.

Orange Rolls 1936

Ingredients:

1 cup milk, cooled to lukewarm

4 cups sifted bread flour

2 cakes yeast

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 eggs, well beaten

1/4 cup melted butter

Directions:

From the feedback I often get from readers, I know there are many other collectors just like me out there. It's in our DNA!

Hot Rolls 1934

Ingredients:

1/2 cake yeast

1/4 cup sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup lukewarm water

1 egg, beaten

3 1/2 cups flour

1 1/2 tablespoon shortening

Directions:

Mother was famous for her hot rolls and she always made a pan of cinnamon rolls for breakfast when she made hot rolls for dinner. She liked to serve orange rolls, lightly glazed, when she served ham as an entree.

Both recipes are just as I found them. Enjoy!

Crumble yeast into large mixing bowl. Add sugar, salt and water. Add well-beaten egg. Sift flour once before measuring. Add half of the flour. Add melted shortening. After half of flour has been added, add the remainder of flour. Let it rise until double in bulk. Work down. Cover tightly and place in Frigidaire. Shape into rolls about 1 hour before baking. Bake at 450 degrees, 20 to 25 minutes.

When milk is lukewarm add crumbled yeast and let stand 15 minutes until dissolved. Add 1 cup flour and beat thoroughly. Add salt, butter, beaten eggs, and mix thoroughly. Gradually beat in rest of flour. Cover and let dough stand in warm place until dough has doubled and will hold imprint of finger. Punch down then pat to 1/4 inch thick. Use cloth covered board, lightly floured, and roll dough longer than wide. Spread filling over surface, roll and cut in 1 inch slices, and place in oiled tins, cut side down. Let rise until double. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes.

Note: Since there was no recipe for the filling, I'm offering this: Mix 1/2 cup softened butter with 1/2 cup sugar and the zest of 2 oranges. Spread this mixture evenly over the rectangle of dough. Roll-up the rectangle lengthwise into a long tube (similar to how you roll cinnamon rolls). Use a sharp serrated knife to cut the dough into 1 inch slices. Place the dough rounds into greased muffin tins, or lay then in a greased baking dish, like cinnamon rolls. Bake, remove from oven and drizzle with glaze.

Orange Rolls Glaze

Directions:

Whisk powdered sugar, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over warm orange rolls. Cheers!

Ingredients:

2 cups powdered sugar 1/2 teaspoon orange zest from fresh orange 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice

MAY Calendar of Events

MAY 2-4

CRUISIN’ MORRO BAY CAR SHOW

MORRO BAY BLVD. AND MAIN ST.

Cruisin’ Morro Bay Car Show returns for its 28th year starting Thursday evening where rare cars will begin arriving in Morro Bay for registration. Friday is Cruise Night at 6 p.m. as classic and other rare cars cruise past. The "Show & Shine" on Saturday is 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. where attendees can talk with the car owners.

MAY 3-4

TAMALE FESTIVAL

SUNKEN GARDENS, ATASCADERO

Enjoy early tamale shopping on Friday, May 3, with live music and fireworks to kick of the tamale festival from 5:30-8pm. On Saturday, May 4, from 11am-7pm, there will be a variety of delicious traditional, gourmet and sweet tamales from local restaurants (as well restaurants from across California), margaritas (and a host of other adult beverages), merchandise vendors, live music, award for "best" tamale, and tamale eating and pet costume contests. For more information, visit atascaderotamalefest.com.

MAY 5

“VIVA LA MUSICA!”

CHORAL CONCERT AND PICNIC

ATASCADERO LAKE PARK

3 p.m.

Directed by Cassandra Tarantino, accompanied by Ryan Hartzell. Let them serenade you with the music they are taking to The Tuscany International Choral Festival! Tickets $20 and Italian lunch boxes available. Veterans and spouses

may reserve free tickets in advance. Tickets.cuesta.edu

MAY 11

WARBIRDS WINGS AND WHEELS CAR SHOW

ESTRELLA WARBIRDS MUSEUM, 4251 DRY CREEK RD, PASO ROBLES 9am-4pm

About 250-300 cars will be parked in and around warbird airplanes and down the taxiway. There will be great family fun including craft vendors, food vendors, Firestone Walker Beer, Eberle Wine, bounce houses and face painter for kids, raffle prizes, 50/50 drawing. Tickets are $10 for adults, kids under 12 and active duty military are free.

PASO ROBLES OLIVE AND LAVENDER FESTIVAL

DOWNTOWN CITY PARK, PASO ROBLES

10am-5pm

The 3rd annual Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival unites farmed olive and lavender products for all to learn, enjoy, and purchase. For information, visit pasoroblesdowntown.org/ downtown-event/paso-robles-olivefestival-lavender-festival-may-11th.

MAY 12

MOTHERS DAY

MAY 16-19

PASO WINE FEST

Experience 100+ wineries, live entertainment, artisans, winemakers, distilled spirits, VIP exclusives, and elevated brand experiences at the Saturday, May 18 Grand Tasting. Continue your Paso Wine experience at 100+ individual winery events throughout the weekend. Visit pasowine.com for more information.

EVENT DETAILS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE verify prior to attending.

STATE CLASSICS CAR SHOW

MAY 18

ARMED FORCES DAY

CHARLES PADDOCK ZOO

9100 MORRO RD, ATASCADERO

10am-5pm

All Active Duty Armed Forces men, women, and their immediate families (spouses and children) receive free admission to the Zoo. Bring your valid military ID to enjoy a visit to the only Zoo on the Central Coast.

MAY 24-25

PLYMOUTH

CONGREGATIONAL ESTATE SALE

PLYMOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 1301 OAK STREET, PASO ROBLES

8am-3pm

Treasures to be found will include: Small kitchen appliances, Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments, Antiques, Framed Art, Power Tools, Household Items, Garden items, Small Tables, Mirrors, Jewelry, and much more.

MAY 24-26

BEST OF THE WEST ANTIQUE EQUIPMENT SHOW

SANTA MARGARITA RANCH 8am-5pm

Get an up-close and hands-on look at antique equipment, including: tractors, engines, cars, steam trains, airplanes and much more. Hosted at the historic Santa Margarita Ranch on California’s beautiful central coast, this unique event is fun for the whole family. For more information visit bestofthewestshow.com

MAY 25 16TH ANNUAL GOLDEN

12TH STREET AND SPRING STREET, PASO ROBLES

9am-2pm

The Golden State Classics Car Club presents about 300 cars and trucks, including muscle cars to hot rods and antiques to sports cars, from all over California to be on display.

MAY 27

MEMORIAL DAY

CEREMONY ATASCADERO FACES OF FREEDOM MEMORIAL 8038 PORTOLA ROAD, ATASCADERO 11am-12pm

The Atascadero Veterans Memorial Foundation is hosting the annual Memorial Day Ceremony at the Faces of Freedom Memorial at 8038 Portola Road (corner of Morro Road and Portola Road).

MEMORIAL DAY

CEREMONY PASO ROBLES

PASO ROBLES DISTRICT CEMETERY

45 NACIMIENTO LAKE DR., PASO ROBLES

11am-12pm

Annual Memorial Day program hosted by the Paso Robles District Cemetery with an invocation followed by patriotic music, guest speakers, a closing prayer, 21-gun salute from the Honor Guard, and a playing of taps.

MAY 31-JUNE 2

PISMO BEACH CLASSIC CAR SHOW

DOWNTOWN PISMO BEACH

9am-9pm

This family friendly event features live music, vendors, a charity cruise, award ceremony and of course classic cars through downtown, the Pismo Pier and Plaza.

Wednesdays

Saturdays

Tuesdays Saturdays

TEMPLETON CROCKER ST & 6TH ST, TEMPLETON, CA 93465 9am - 12:30pm PASO ROBLES 11TH & SPRING, PASO

11am

ATASCADERO 6505 EL CAMINO REAL, ATASCADERO, CA 93422 3pm - 6pm

Atascadero LakeFest Cancelled for 2024

Shortage of Volunteers, Hopes for Return Next Year

By Christianna Marks

For six years, the Atascadero community has headed out to Atascadero Lake for the annual Friends of Atascadero Lake LakeFest. The much-loved event has seen many cardboard boat races and fishing derbies over the years. However, this year, LakeFest has been canceled. But there are hopes that the fun-loving festival will be back as soon as next year.

"The reason that it didn't happen this year [is] we've had a couple of people drop out of our Friends of Atascadero Lake team," said President Mark Hontz.

With a shortage of members and having Nancy Hair, who has run LakeFest for the last couple of years, stepping away from Friends of Atascadero Lake, the nonprofit group couldn't get everything ready for this year's upcoming event.

"We were short on manpower. We didn't have enough people to do it this year," said Hontz. "We realize it's important for the city. The city loves it. This year was just a problem year for us."

Hontz added that Friends of Atascadero Lake hope that they will

be back to regularly scheduled programming next year, but that it will depend on what happens to the nonprofit. In the meantime, the group will be looking to recruit new members and start looking into ways to collaborate with other groups in Atascadero to bring LakeFest back to life. Hontz also said that Vice President Don Lynge is looking to take over heading LakeFest when it does come back.

Not only does Friends of Atascadero Lake host LakeFest, but they also help fund the pump that runs water into the lake, help get the creek water into the lake, and have cleanup days. The nonprofit group, which works alongside the city, was formed in 2013, and they've been part of many initiatives that help Atascadero Lake thrive.

"When we're running this pump that we run, we spend about $1,000 a month running the pump," added Hontz.

Currently, the pump isn't needed to help fill the lake because the amount of rain the area has gotten over the last couple of years has kept Atascadero Lake full without any help from the group.

To find out more about Friends of Atascadero Lake, join them in their mission, or volunteer to help with future LakeFests, head to friendsofatascaderolake.com.

DIRECTORY TO OUR ADVERTISERS

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