Celebrating Exceptional Women of Influence in North County
By Christianna Marks
Three
McNamara
By Christianna Marks
Former Colony Days Committee co-chair, and Atascadero resident is this year's Grand Marshal. Karen now chairs The Atascadero Printery Foundation's revitalization efforts.
Colony Days King and Queen Don and Janey Giessinger
By Christianna Marks
The Giessingers, long-time Atascadero residents and business owners, are honored as the 2024 Colony Days King and Queen after 50 years in the community.
October is one of my favorite issues we put together. It’s a time to reflect on the vibrant community spirit that defines Atascadero and celebrate the wonderful people who dedicate their lives to making it a better place. As we look back at the history of Colony Days and how Atascadero was founded, the vision of E.G. and Mabel Lewis feels even more profound. Their passion for community-building and their love of print resonate deeply with us, which is why The Printery holds such a special place in our hearts. In this issue, we share its history with hope that one day it will once again become a beacon of family fun and community.
Raising our kids here, creating a home, growing a business, and providing jobs for locals is our passion and mission. For Nic and me, it’s not about profit; it’s about reinvesting in our community, creating good-paying jobs, and fostering an inspiring, creative, and collaborative working environment.
Our first home in Atascadero was a beautiful 1916 Colony house — the red one on the corner of Atascadero Avenue and Santa Rosa. That house will always hold a special place in our hearts. In fact, Mirac has already claimed that if it ever goes back on the market, he’s going to buy it! We sold it in 2022 to a wonderful local family with the help of Jaime Silveria and her team at Malik Real Estate and moved to the Atascadero hills, where our boys now have the space to run and explore, surrounded by wild turkeys, deer, and precious quail.
We are incredibly proud to live here and to publish magazines and newspapers that represent the Central Coast and beyond. It’s an honor to carry on the legacy of The Atascadero News, and we’ are equally proud of Atascadero News Magazine, formerly Colony Magazine. After taking a leap of faith in 2018, we are now celebrating six years in print. When we acquired Paso Robles Magazine, we felt Atascadero deserved its own magazine too, which is actually where we were going to start, and that’s how Colony Magazine was born. The name changed in 2020 after we acquired The Atascadero News, allowing the two publications to complement each other for years to come.
When Nic and I met and dated in high school at Templeton, we never imagined that 13 years later, we would come back together to create something we are both so proud of. It’s hard work, but it’s all possible because of our incredible, dedicated team.
A heartfelt thank you to our supporters, advertisers, and loyal readers. We do this because we love it, because our team loves it, and because we are proud of the place we call home. We hope you enjoy this special issue celebrating Colony Days, a true tribute to community spirit and togetherness.
We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of the Atascadero News Magazine.
Hayley & Nic Mattson
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.
Hayley
AD DESIGN
Jen Rodman
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Michael Chaldu
Christianna Marks
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CONTRIBUTORS
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Shift'N Gears
The Natural Alternative
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AD CONSULTANTS
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PUBLICATION DELIVERY DATE
November 1, 2024
ADVERTISING DEADLINE October 10, 2024
For more advertising information, contact our advertising representatives above, or see our media kit at: atascaderomagazine.com/advertise
The Autumn Season Begins Downtown!
KYLA SKINNER
October is the month when we are all ready for autumn, but it’s still summer in Atascadero … the fuzzy, cozy Halloween costumes will have your child suffering from heat stroke! Alas, it’s still warm, but we have lots of fun fall-themed events this month to get us in the spirit.
Starting off October 4, we have the Downtown Atascadero’s First Friday event. Live music will be on platforms throughout the downtown streets, food trucks, and general fun. Carbon City Lights will be the featured band. If you are a business owner, we encourage you to stay open a bit later these evenings to contribute to the happening vibe. We may have a year of construction — hopefully, at this point, halfway done, but we have such a cool downtown regardless. You guys, we’ve got this! Keep the energy and hold the pace.
The weekend fun continues with Atascadero Colony Day, the 50th anniversary celebration of the parade. It will take place on Saturday, October 5, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The parade will start at 10 a.m. and run down El Camino Real from Davis Auto Body to West Mall and Palma Avenue by Sunken Gardens. The parade is so heartwarming to watch and it always makes me tear up a bit — I don’t know why. I love seeing the kids performing and just in general, happy families coming together to enjoy our town! The Festival will start immediately after the parade and continue until 3 p.m. There will be a variety of vendors, entertainment, and food in and around the Sunken Gardens. Wiener dog and small dog races will start at 12 p.m. Nothing cuter.
Moving on to another busy day, Saturday, October 26. We have the Bovine Classic, a gravel bike race that brings cycling enthusiasts from far and wide to enjoy a challenging course through the beautiful wine region. Cow-themed, this is headed by local Bryan Yates, who will surely have many cow puns ready to go … he has brought a fresh new energy to our town with an enthusiastic event that appeals to all ages. Last year, I saw people in their 80s and teenagers, all competing together. It is a serious race with a lighthearted spirit. We showed up to cheer them off in the morning, the race starts en masse at 8:30 a.m. at the beautiful Sunken Gardens/City Hall. There
were cow costumes, cowbells, and of course, more tears of enthusiasm from me (hidden by my sunglasses) … why do these things get to me? We cheered them on, then wandered over to BackPorch Bakery for breakfast. The Festival continues at Sunken Gardens from 12:30 to 6 p.m. with vendors and music as people trickle back from the ride. Awards and raffle starts at 4 p.m.
Also, on October 26, we have Zoo Boo at Charles Paddock Zoo from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Dress up and enjoy the Zoo with carnival-style games and candy treats. $16 per person, $15 for zoo members, and free for two and under. Tickets can be purchased at visitatascadero.com.
October 31, Halloween, we have Trick or Treat downtown. Local businesses go all out to treat our kiddos (and kids at heart) to a safe and fun gathering of everyone in their costumes with the business providing experiences and candy. There will be games and costume contests for the family and pets. Poppy, our corgi, made the perfect taco last year, although she was absolutely petrified of the blow-up dinosaur costumes. If you hear of a dinosaur being deflated, it was her. The taco corgi. Because the costume was perfect and needs to be re-used.
Happy Autumn downtown!
As fall is now here and the weather is beginning to change, it’s important to give your skin extra attention and provide it with needed nutrients through using creams, serums, and oils as well as taking certain vitamins. This is why we are happy to announce that we will be giving 20 percent off all Derma E skin care products this October!
During the cold weather it is common for our skin to become dry and chapped. Derma E has a line of products specifically formulated for hydrating. While washing your face day and night with a cleanser and using a cream is important, it is also beneficial to use a serum, moisturizer, or oil if you don’t already. We offer Derma E’s Vitamin C line which is important to use during the fall months when there is less sun exposure, leading to duller skin. Using Vitamin C can make your skin appear more bright during the overcast months and supports collagen production.
Ask us about our Ultra Hydrating Serum, Vitamin C Concentrated Serum, Vitamin C Glow Oil, and Pure Biome Balancing Serum to learn more about how you can support your skin! Taking Collagen and Vitamin C in the form of a supplement can be beneficial
as well. We also offer a probiotic formulated for skin care and a Clear Skin Multivitamin by CodeAge that would be worth checking out. What we eat and the supplements we take have a great effect on our skin. Making sure to eat whole foods and taking an Omega 3 and Vitamin E can also benefit skin health.
This month we will be offering a class with local esthetician Lauri O’Neill to further educate the community on how to better their skin care routines. We will also be hosting a Bath Salt & Scrub Making class, so if you’re interested make sure to sign up for our mailing list and stay tuned for more information on these upcoming classes!
You can sign up for our newsletter and shop on our website at naturalalternativenutrition.com. Make sure to stop by our store to check out our skincare line and receive this monthly discount. We are located downtown at 1213 Pine St. in Paso Robles.
Our team is wishing you a happy fall, The Natural Alternative
Shop online with us today at NaturalAlternativeNutrition.com or visit us on Instagram and Facebook
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE DIAGNOSIS, PRESCRIPTION OR TREATMENT AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE USED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL COUNSELING WITH A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE DIAGNOSIS, PRESCRIPTION OR TREATMENT AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE USED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL COUNSELING WITH A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL COUNSELING WITH A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.
REVIVING HISTORY
The Atascadero Printery’s Legacy of Innovation and Community Impact
By The Atascadero News Editorial Board
The growth of Atascadero, was driven by the vision and ambition of its founder, E.G. Lewis. Integral to the success of this vision was the construction of the Printery, a building that not only facilitated the promotion of Atascadero but also played a key role in its development. The Printery stands as a symbol of the city’s early innovation, housing the only rotogravure presses west of the Mississippi and producing some of the most important publications of the time.
In the early 20th century, E.G. Lewis envisioned Atascadero as a model colony, and the success of this project relied heavily on the promotion of the community to attract residents and investors. To this end, Lewis invested heavily in promotional materials, initially printing them in University City, Missouri. However, as the project grew, Lewis realized the need for a local printing facility and constructed the Printery in Atascadero in 1915. This building, made of terra cotta brick and tile, was located northeast of the Administration Building and quickly became one of the busiest places in the Colony.
The Printery was not just a printing facility— it was a hub of activity, employing around 125 people at its peak. Lewis installed a number of rotogravure presses, which allowed for the reproduction of high-quality images at a cost comparable to text. This innovation made Atascadero one of the most photographed communities in the world. For example, Bulletin No. 9, printed in rotogravure at the Printery, featured 98 pages and over 550 images of the community. The presence of these presses also allowed the Printery to take on work for other publications, including rotogravure supplements
for the San Francisco Chronicle and the Los Angeles Sunday Times.
One of the most significant publications to come out of the Printery was The Illustrated Review, a monthly picture news magazine that was the first of its kind in America. Launched during World War I, the magazine featured pictures of current events, world leaders, Hollywood celebrities, and fashion, with minimal text accompanying the images. The Illustrated Review was a huge success, with circulation quickly reaching 600,000 copies per issue.
The success of the Printery extended beyond Atascadero, as a spur track from the Southern Pacific main line was constructed to bring in newsprint and ship out publications. At one point, the Atascadero post office became the third largest in California in terms of volume, trailing only Los Angeles and San Francisco. This was a testament to the Printery’s impact on the community and the wider region.
Despite its early success, the Printery’s fortunes began to decline in the 1920s. In 1924, significant layoffs occurred, and the following year, the Atascadero News was sold to Ted Bishop after E.G. Lewis was forced into involuntary receivership by creditors. In 1928, the Printery building was sold to Frank G. Moran from Seattle, who converted it into Moran Junior College. This transformation included the addition of a gymnasium, an indoor heated pool, classrooms, and dormitories for 28 students. The school was a preparatory institution for boys, and one of its most famous graduates was the American artist Robert Burns Motherwell, a founder of the abstract expressionist movement.
Moran Junior College eventually dissolved into the Miramonte School and Junior College
in 1935, but the Printery continued to serve the community in different ways. In the late 1930s, it was leased by the National Youth Administration (NYA), a federal program designed to provide education and employment for at-risk youth. During this time, a young Jackie Robinson, fresh out of UCLA, worked at the Printery as an assistant athletic director. Although Robinson’s time in Atascadero was brief, stories of his athletic prowess became local legends, with tales of him hitting home runs into the Atascadero Creek and leading the staff team to victory at Camp Roberts.
The Printery was again repurposed during World War II when it was leased to the U.S. Army to serve as barracks for men assigned to Sherwood Air Field in nearby Paso Robles. After the war, the building changed hands several times and served a variety of purposes, including housing karate studios, district school offices, and a sheriff’s substation.
However, the building’s condition deteriorated over the years, and it was abandoned following the 2003 earthquake that compromised its foundation. Despite its state of disrepair, the Printery remained a symbol of Atascadero’s early history, and efforts to restore it began in earnest in 2017. On May 15 of that year, the Atascadero Printery Foundation purchased the building at a tax auction for $300,000. Since then, the Foundation has worked to restore the Printery to its former glory, with plans to transform it into a community space that honors its rich history.
References from the Atascadero Historical Society, City of Atascadero, Atascadero News Historical Records, and L.W. Allan’s book “Atascadero: The Vision of One — The Work of Many.”
THE GEARHEAD CORNER!
Hi! Welcome to The Gearhead Corner!
You sure know us by now! We are Jimmy & Leigh-Ann of Shift N Gears Auto Repair; here to entertain and keep your ride going!
13 Movie Magic Creepy Cars?
These cars are more than just metal and rubber — they’re packed with hauntings, curses, and sinister vibes.
1958 Plymouth Fury from "Christine"
If your car ever starts acting up, just be thankful it’s not trying to drive you into a murderous rampage!
Gothic Hot Rod Munster Mobile from "The Munsters"
It might be a normal grocery-getter for the Munsters, but its best left in the driveway and avoid full moons!
1959 Cadillac Hearse Ecto-1 from "Ghostbusters"
Who you gonna call? Fight ghostly crime, proton packs and all in this spacious monster-capturing device.
Porsche 550 Spyder James Dean’s “Cursed” Ride
After James Dean’s tragic death in 1955, parts of the car were sold, and those who used them faced freak accidents. Spooky, right?
The Mystery Machine from "Scooby-Doo"
For decades, this van has been synonymous with haunted houses and ghoulish mysteries. If you’re out trickor-treating and see this coming don’t assume it's just a van!
Modified Corvette Gator’s Car from "Death Race 2000"
Decked out with red eyes, giant teeth,
Sinister Rides 13
and a spine. It's a road rage nightmare, but perfect for those Halloween death races.
Happy Toyz Co. Truck from "Maximum Overdrive"
Only Stephen King would create a possessed truck, complete with a Green Goblin mask, leading an army of killer machines.
1977 Ford Pinto from "Cujo"
As if the Pinto wasn’t scary enough for its real-world problems, try being stuck in one with a rabid dog circling around?
1966 Lincoln Continental — The Deathmobile — from "Animal House"
Though hilarious in the film, we wouldn’t want to see this black and skull-covered beast barrelingtoward us!
1970 Chevrolet Nova from "Death Proof"
Beware — this car is only "death proof" for the driver. Riding shotgun? You’re on your own.
1955 Peterbilt Truck from "Duel"
Before "Jaws," Spielberg terrorized us with this psycho tanker truck.
1984 Dodge M4sS from "The Wraith" It might look cool, but this supernatural ride has some unfinished business with those who wronged it.
The Batmobile
This is the last thing any crook wants to see. But on Halloween night, don’t be surprised if this dark, brooding car is patrolling your block, keeping the peace.
Happy haunting — and drive safe this Halloween!
Celebrate Fall North County
A guide to local pumpkin patches & traditions
By Maylia Baird
Though the weather may not be your classic fall experience, we have other ways to ring in the new season here in North County. We have some of the best pumpkin patches in the county — and some of the oldest! We talked to Chesebrough Farms, who will be back this year after a little hiatus, and highlighted some of our other favorite patches in town.
Chesebrough Farms
At Chesebrough Farms things are simple and traditions are important. Donna and Bob Chesebrough take pride in their pumpkin and winter squash farming and are passionate about creating a family-friendly fall experience, which they have offered every October for over 40 years. They grow and harvest every pumpkin they sell and grow a variety of pumpkins aside from the traditional orange style, such as white and sage green pumpkins and squashes.
Unfortunately, they were unable to open last year since Donna had to recover from surgery.
“For the first time in 40 years we didn’t have pumpkins and it was odd,” Donna explains.
However, they are back up and running this year and excited to welcome the public to their pumpkin patch once again.
When asked what people can look forward to with the reopening this year, Donna told Atascadero News Magazine, “Everything they’ve ever seen before. It will all be just like it’s always been. I
haven’t cut back on anything.”
The patch will be filled with rows of pumpkins, squash, and other types of gourds, both decorative and edible. They also sell fresh in-season vegetables that are grown on the land. You can look forward to their charming old-fashioned roadside stand, handmade scarecrows, and over 200-year-old barn. They also have many animals such as cows, goats, and chickens to admire when on the property. It is overall a wonderful historic farm experience with lots of photo opportunities for families.
Chesebrough Farms is also known for its pumpkin scarring as they are the only ones in the area who do it. Pumpkin scarring is where you scratch a pumpkin while it’s still on the stem and green. It’s like a scab, and when it heals, it raises the scaring design up as the pumpkin ages. Donna says that although she is no longer doing custom orders, she will have lots of generic ones for sale and it’s on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Chesebrough Farms
790 Moss Lane, Templeton chesebroughpumpkins.com
Jack Creek Farms
Jack Creek Farms is a small fifth-generation family farm located off Highway 46 West. The land has been handed down and maintained in the family for generations, making it the oldest pumpkin farm in San Luis Obispo County. During October, they sell loose or in-patch pumpkins, if you’d like to look for and choose your own. They also have a store with lots of fun decor to look at and homemade treats to choose
from. They are known for their delicious apple cider slushies, pomegranate juice granitas, and fudge. If you haven’t tried them before, it’s a must. They have a beautiful garden, antique farm equipment display, and lots of farm animals to admire. They also have a fort, maze, wooden train, and tractor tire garden for the kids to enjoy.
River “K” Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze (River K) is a family-owned and operated pumpkin patch in Paso Robles that has been open since 1969. The Kunze family has provided children and families with a wonderful autumn tradition to come back to every October for over 40 years. They are known for their giant corn maze and hayrides. They also have a family-friendly haunted house, a talking witch on a broomstick, a graveyard, and lots of other fun decorations. You can walk through their pumpkin patch and pick out all your pumpkins as well. Wagons are provided for your convenience and pumpkins can be purchased at their stand near the entrance of the patch.
River “K” Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze
7325 North River Road, Paso Robles facebook.com/riverkpumpkins/
Colony Days
‘Fifty Years of Fabulous Floats’ Hit the Streets of Atascadero
By Christianna Marks
The Colony Days Parade is right around the corner, and it’s taking place on Saturday, October 5, with all the regular fanfare you’d come to expect. This year, the streets will be filled with parade entries celebrating “Fifty Years of Fabulous Floats,” which is this year’s theme. While last year celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Colony Days as a whole, this year will honor the parade itself as people drive, walk, and ride on floats through the streets of the town they love so much, Atascadero!
Riding in and residing over the parade this year will be the 2024 Grand Marshal Karen McNamara and the 2024 Colony Days King and Queen Don and Janey Giessinger.
place on September 29. All three were also given commemorative plaques at the Colony Days mixer, which took place on October 2 in the main lobby of Colony Theatres, when they were inducted into Colony Days’ beautiful history. The event was open to all.
On top of all the parade fun, after a triumphant return last year, Tent City will be back again. Atascadero residents will be able to enjoy diving into a world of historical insight as the city of tents takes them back into what it was like to live in Atascadero when it was starting out as a colony. Expect fun, adventure, and some good old laughs as you trod through Sunken Gardens and are taken back in time.
And don’t forget the annual Colony Days dog costume contest, which always brings the community lots of smiles. The small and wiener dog races follow shortly after, and every year, they bring out the competitiveness of everyone’s favorite four-legged friends.
Make sure to come out and celebrate with our vibrant community. Say hello to some strangers, make new friends, and remind the old ones why it’s so great living here in Atascadero!
by Frank Sanchez
Schedule of events for Saturday, Oct. 5
9 to 11 a.m.: Breakfast at Huckleberry’s at Tent City
10 a.m.: Colony Days Parade
After parade to 3 p.m.: The Sunken Gardens will feature a variety of vendors, entertainment, and food options, including the Atascadero Tent City, where Huckleberry’s-Atascadero will be running a new diner. They’ll be serving breakfast, lunch, and beignets throughout the day!
10:30 a.m. to Noon: Sign-ups open for Colony Days Dog Races.
11:30 a.m.: Sign-ups open for Colony Days Dog Costume Contest
Noon: Dog costume contest (any size dog-free)
12:30 p.m.: Wiener dog and small dog races (registration form)
1 p.m.: Colony Days Parade awards
Photo
Introducing this year’s
Colony Days Grand Marshal,
Karen McNamara
By Christianna Marks
The Colony Days Committee has picked one of their recent own as the 2024 Grand Marshal by choosing Karen McNamara to fill the role.
“It just is an honor,” Karen said of getting selected to preside over the event. “Typically at Colony Days, I was somewhere, running the whole day between things, moving things, making sure everything was put into place.”
Last year, Karen stepped down from being co-chair and president of the Colony Days Committee after being involved in many different roles with the nonprofit since 2010. She officially stepped aside from working with Colony Days this year because her role as president at her other passion project, The Atascadero Printery, has started to move forward with larger parts of its construction and revitalization.
“Colony Days is so much fun, and it’s such a neat event, and it’s such a great thing to hold the community together. It was just an honor to be a part of it and all the great people that I worked with and helped put it on,” added Karen. “It’s nice to still be a part of it this year and promote the community awareness and the community spirit of Atascadero.”
So what brought Karen, a Nebraska native, to Atascadero? It was when she met her late husband, Mike, at college in Missouri.
“We got married in 1979, and he was an Atascadero native. Almost born here, came here when he was less than a year old, but he grew up here. So we moved here to California. I remember him asking me, ‘Would you like to marry me and move to California?’” added Karen with a laugh.
When they moved back here, Karen worked at McNamara Electric, which Mike’s dad owned. There, she met so many people from the community and realized what a special place it was, on top of the great weather. Though they loved California, the family moved to Colorado for a little while but moved back to Atascadero around 2009. It was then that Karen dove into finding ways to get involved with the community.
“When I came back, I decided to get involved,” she said. “The parade was very, very small, and we had lived in a very small town in Colorado. They had an amazing couple of parades every year. They had a Christmas parade and then another parade celebrating the community during the middle of the year. They had great parades, and my sons were like, ‘This is such a small parade but such a bigger town.’ So I said, well, I’m not going to complain about it. I will just get on [the Colony Days Committee] and help.”
Karen and Mike had four amazing children, Jaime, April, Bryan, and Kody, before his unexpected death in 2015. Her sons are still local, while her daughters have moved to Alaska and Idaho.
Photo by Rick Evans
“My kids are amazing. They are just fabulous, and I can’t say enough about them. I want to be here for another 30 years for them,” Karen said.
It was at the request of her kids that she took over what is now The Atascadero Printery Foundation after Mike’s passing. Colony Days actually had a big hand in getting the second nonprofit off the ground.
“The Printery was initially my husband, who was doing that. I wasn’t super involved. We talked about it some, but it was kind of like, ‘Oh, that’s Mike’s thing,’” Karen said. “I didn’t go to those first few meetings that he had. We talked about it, and I helped him gather information about it and things like that. It wasn’t that I wasn’t interested at all, but it was kind of his project. He got it going, and he was meeting with people, and then, of course, he passed away. So then in 2015 at Colony Days, as one of my duties for the day, the night before, I made a banner.”
That banner said, “Save the Printery.” Karen told Kent Kenny of Colony Days that she was going to be making the banner, and he offered to make a photo book with info on the history of the building. The photos featured everything about the Printery that people would want to know. They also made a signup sheet for anyone interested in helping. That day, she said, close to 26 people signed up. That’s when meetings started up again. Those people who originally showed up formed the board, and The Printery Foundation officially became a non-profit with Karen at the helm.
Karen’s love of music and singing, which is what she studied as a vocal music major when she and Mike met in college, is one of the other driving forces behind wanting to get The Printery up and running. She knows that the North County deserves a performance space, and she is hoping that it’s sooner rather than later that The Printery can open and become a thriving space for arts and culture in the area.
On top of all her work with local nonprofits, Karen is also a real estate broker and owner of Classic Coast Realty and the proud owner of Hope Chest Emporium.
“I’m honored to be a part of the community providing everyday home and garden supplies that people need and a lot of fun stuff,” said Karen of her store.
Karen also enjoys spending time with her boyfriend, Greg, and pets, Moonshine and Bailey, her poodle terrier mix who never leaves her side.
Introducing this year’s Colony Days King and Queen,
Fifty years ago, Don and Janey Giessinger made the move to Atascadero from Burbank and solidified themselves in the city that they have called home ever since. As fans, past participants, and members of the crowd at the Colony Days Parade since its inception, Don and Janey were extremely honored to find out that this year they will be an esteemed part of the parade themselves when The Colony Days Committee announced that they will be the 2024 Colony Days King and Queen.
“I thought when Kent Kenny called me that it was quite an honor, to say the least,” Don said. “I said, ‘What? We’re not that old yet, are we?’”
“I was surprised,” Janey added.
Before they made their way to Atascadero, Don and Janey were raising their two children down south in Burbank. However, it was Lake Nacimiento that brought them to the North County. They would make their way to the lake through the Central Coast with their boat so they could go water skiing. And that’s when a love for the area started to grow in the family.
“There was all this acreage. The town [Atascadero] was very small then, but on the sides of the roads, you could see all these cows and horses,” Janey said. “I said, ‘I wouldn’t mind living up here, Don,’ and he said, ‘Well, we could, I guess.’ He was doing
Don & Janey Giessinger
By Christianna Marks
retail wholesale furniture [at the time].”
Aside from their drives to the lake, Don would also travel all the way to San Luis Obispo to sell furniture, but he never ventured further north for that purpose. Along the way, Don was invited to play golf with a client, and he brought Janey along to go shopping. On the way home from that trip, they had their first official conversation about how great it would be to live here.
“The rest is history. I went down, and I had my furniture business too, down there, a retail business. Basically, I end up putting it up for sale. Ran a big sale and sold the building, and about, I think, in three or four months, we were moving,” stated Don.
They moved themselves and their young kids, Darin and Jeanna, onto a few acres in Atascadero, where they built their first house. Later, they would buy a larger piece of property, where they also built a home for Janey’s parents.
Since their move here, Don and Janey have owned three different successful businesses in Atascadero. Town and Country Fashions, the A&W that used to be on Morro Road, and the much-loved 76 gas station and convenience store that still stands next to it.
“When the opportunity came, and I saw fast food was for sale in town, I thought maybe this could be a perfect fit for my wife. Something
she’d like to do,” Don said. “Most people thought we were crazy because it was not a good, successful business at the time. It had been open as an A&W for less than a year.”
They took the A&W business over in 1991 and ran it until 2006 when it switched hands to Darin and his wife until 2022 when they moved to Texas.
“If it wasn’t for A&W, I never would have had the 76,” Don continued. “They were right next door, and that was available, sitting there empty for 10 years, as a lot, growing weeds, and I decided I said, ‘What do I have to lose? I’m right next door. It maybe could work?’ It turned out to be a good location.”
Both Don and Janey reminisced about what it was like to move to Atascadero 50 years ago, and Janey talked about how there was only one stop light at the time and the post office used to be tiny. They also stated how they’ve been to every single Colony Days Parade from the start, or at least every one they could make it to.
“Right off the bat,” Janey says of attending the first parade. “My parents were there [Burbank], and they moved up much later. All of our friends from high school were down there. We were just up here by ourselves thinking we’ve got to find some stuff to do. We can’t take the boat to the lake every day. The kids have got to go to school, and then
all the sudden, it came up in the paper, and it says, The First Colony Days Parade.”
They used to go to the Rose Parade in Pasadena every year, so they didn’t know what to expect when they showed up at the first-ever Colony Days Parade.
“I said, ‘but Janey, we’ve got to go. It’s gonna be the first one.’ They had two or three floats, something like that,” added Don. “We had a great time because we were kind of laughing compared to the Rose Parade, asking if this is really a parade. Well, I guess you could call it that. There’s a band.”
“Three bands, San Luis, Paso, and Atascadero,” continued Janey.
And their participation in the parade itself grew as their kids got older. The kids would ride on floats they helped make, and Darin marched in the band playing saxophone. Janey, a horsewoman, which is one of the many reasons that brought them to Atascadero, also rode in the parades after she joined the Vaqueras Del Camino Horse Club. But their excitement about sitting in the classic Cadillac and waving to the crowd as this year’s royalty has yet to be matched.
Janey, who was a drama major at Burbank High School, where she and Don met, was also drawn into the world of Pioneer Players when
they got here. She said that she was in so many musicals and plays that the now defunct community theatre company put on that she couldn’t even remember them all.
“I used to go to all of them even after I wasn’t in it anymore. We did so many musicals and shows, I can’t even begin to name them all,” continued Janey. “We did a lot of big shows up there. Big numbers, costumes, scenery, I mean, I was in the show, doing the scenery, everything.”
Don also got excited about the nonprofit side of things in the North County and belongs to a bunch of different groups, including the Rotary Club, Elks Lodge, El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO), Friends of the Lake, Atascadero Printery Foundation, and LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero.
Together, Don and Janey enjoy golfing at Chalk Mountain Golf Course, and during the summer, they head to courses in Los Osos and Morro Bay. Janey pointed out that she also enjoys the Paso Golf Course because that’s where she broke 90, and she’ll never forget that.
On top of their two children, Don and Janey are grandparents to four grandsons and one great-granddaughter, with a great-grandson on the way.
“We love it here. It’s the best move we ever made from Burbank,” concluded Janey.
2024 wINC NOMINEES Celebrating Exceptional Women of Influence in North County
By Christianna Marks
The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Atascadero chapter of the American Association of University Women, has unveiled their 2024 nominees for Woman of Influence North County (wINC). This marks the second annual wINC luncheon, though it will officially honor its fourth Woman of Influence. This year, over
35 women were nominated, with the final selection narrowed down to three outstanding candidates.
The finalists were chosen through a blind voting process conducted by a committee of approximately ten members. To ensure impartiality, all identifying details, such as names, dates, and business affiliations, were removed from the candidates’ profiles during the voting.
“There was a committee that got together and voted, and then it was an hour discussion after we voted,” Julie Matthews, the Chamber’s VP of membership and special projects, shared. “These three women literally rose to the top.”
This year’s three nominees impact the community around us in huge ways, and North County wouldn’t be what it is without them.
Young Won
Yessenia Echevarria
Young Won is the CEO of Angels Group Home in Paso Robles, where she provides a supportive place for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to thrive. She started the group home after giving birth to a daughter with Down syndrome. The residential care facility gives residents the space to improve their quality of life and gain independence in a safe space.
“I am very honored and surprised at being nominated and being in the top three nominees for the wINC Recognition Award. I did what I had to do out of necessity for my daughter; my love for her and the grace of God is what has motivated me through the years,” said Young. “It has not been easy for several reasons. There was the language barrier: English is my second language, Korean being my first. Also, I had to leave all my friends in Korea when I married Vanessa’s father and came to the United States in 1996. However, God is faithful, and He eventually brought some of my friends and relatives to the States, and I have been able to employ them. It has become a group effort. I get great satisfaction seeing my daughter thrive because of my efforts and those of others, knowing that we are empowering my daughter and other young women by giving them opportunities for work, recreation, and socialization. But most of all, they can live in a safe and accepting environment in one of our homes.”
Elissa Williams is the owner and a broker at Remax Success in Templeton. Not only does she impact those around her through being their broker, but she also makes sure that her professional achievements bleed into her charity efforts, which bring positive changes to those in the community around her.
“What an incredible honor to be nominated for such a prestigious award and recognition. To bring attention to the accomplishments and impact women have in our communities is amazing. Last year’s nominees do such incredible work to
improve the lives of others,” stated Elissa. “This is quite humbling and rewarding at the same time to be included in their company. I am proud of the work women do to further our communities and, mostly, as we just go about our lives. And that others notice and would go through the effort to actually nominate. Yes, quite an honor.”
Yessenia Echevarria is the founder of Mujeres de Accion (Women of Action), which focuses on advocacy concerning ethnic studies, bridging language barriers for those in our community and building inclusivity with her grassroots organization. She also advocated for the Latino community and providing spaces for her culture to thrive. Now, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated in the Paso Robles City Park and has been for the last three years because of her commitment to her community. Yessenia’s mother and the way she interacted with her own commmunity while she was younger had a strong impact on what she does now.
“I feel so humbled in just knowing that I’m on the right track. To see the impact we made and how lives are being touched. I think that’s the real measurement of the actionable work that is being done. To see how the impact is being made for individuals and, most importantly, the community as a whole,” said Yessenia.
“There’s moments like this today where it’s like, I get to hear how the work is impacting others and it feels good to recognize that it’s working. That it’s motivating and inspiring others.”
“We are honored to recognize these exceptional women who are making an impact not only in the industries in which they work, but also making a difference in the lives of others. Their contributions of service in our community embody the spirit of leadership and empowerment. We invite the community to celebrate with us at the Women of Influence North County luncheon and get to know these women who are driving positive change,” added Julie.
Elissa Williams
n September 25, Copper & Lace Western Boutique celebrated its first anniversary. The brickand-mortar store began as a mobile boutique traveling to Western events, and has since established into a distinctive treasure in Paso Robles.
“Born out of a passion for creativity and a deep love for Western fashion,” owner Charlyn Pacheco says they strive for uniqueness. Her store offers “a range of styles, from Western to Boho, traditional to modern, ensuring there’s something for everyone.”
Charlyn feels fortunate to be part of such a supportive community. “It’s been a joy to meet new faces and help them discover the perfect outfit, bringing Western fashion into their everyday lives,” she says. “The
By Blake Ashley Frino-Gerl
Western lifestyle runs deep in our veins — growing up in Paso Robles, a town with strong ranching roots, our connection to the Western way of life has always been a part of us.”
of sameness.”
In addition to having a variety of clothes and hats, Charlyn takes pride in creating items that make her customers feel beautiful, and that includes “each leather accessory and piece of jewelry handcrafted with care and attention to detail,” she explains. Their first product and customer favorite is the Cheyenne Western Hip Belt with its versatility, making it “flattering on all body types and adding the perfect touch to any outfit.” Also, her Desert Sands 3 Strand Handcrafted Necklace, “featuring sand-toned beads, champagne crystals, and rich brown pearls,” was “born out of a
“We’ve created a warm, welcoming space where women can come together, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company,” Charlyn says. She offers workshops, Sip & Paints, and other events that provide opportunities for their customers to connect and make new friends. Charlyn thoroughly values her loyal customers, as well as her dedicated team which includes her husband Greg Pacheco, their daughter Kiley Williams, and mother-daughter duo — Aimee and Ashley Richard.
COPPER & LACE WESTERN BOUTIQUE 1324 Park St, Paso Robles (805) 427-9202 copperlacewestern.com
Sue & her father who has Dementia
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS
Beauty & Massage breeanncassidycmt.com
Bee's Blossoms beesblossoms.com
Central Coast Chic Events LLC. centralcoastchicevents.com
Colony Sandwich Co. colonysandwich.co
D & S Fisher Men's Clothing (805) 792-2321
Down to Earth Wellness downtoearthhw.com
Hall Builders Inc. hallbuildersinc.net
Jonny Prius & EV Repair jonnyprius.com
Lashes by JessicaRose jessicaroselashartistry.com
Lloyd Handyman Services lloydhandyman.com
Popolo Catering popolocatering.com
Salinas River Ranch Christmas Tree Farm salinasriverranch.org
Shop Little Cousins shoplittlecousins.com
Yabba Dabba Dogs yabbadabbadogsandcatering.com
MEASURE L-24 — THE IMPACT OF ROAD IMPROVEMENTS AND MAINTENANCE ON OUR BUSINESS COMMUNITY
By Josh Cross • CEO/President Chamber of Commerce
On the November ballot, Atascadero voters will have a pivotal decision about local infrastructure funding. The Atascadero Local Roads and Vital Services Funding Extension Measure, also known as Measure L-24, seeks to extend the current half-cent per dollar (0.5 percent) general sales tax that was originally approved by voters in 2014 under Measure F-14. This extension aims to continue supporting neighborhood road repairs and crucial infrastructure repairs and maintenance. Measure L-24 will provide approximately $3 million annually for Atascadero if passed. This funding is dedicated to repairing neighborhood roads, maintaining aging infrastructure, and addressing other vital city needs. This tax is good for our local business community! Ensuring people can safely and easily get to businesses throughout Atascadero both to work in and shop from is paramount for the success of local businesses. Neighborhood roads take employees from their homes to their workplaces in our city. Maintaining infrastructure and roads so customers can access businesses is vital for economic activity and growth.
Since its approval in 2014, Measure F-14
has significantly impacted Atascadero's infrastructure for the better. An example of its impact is the resurfacing of over 55 miles of neighborhood roads, substantially improving pavement quality and infrastructure stability, all done thanks to the funding by this measure. Importantly, Measure L-24 will maintain the rigorous oversight established under Measure F-14. A nine-member Citizens' Oversight Committee will review the use of these funds. The committee's role is to ensure transparency and proper allocation of resources. In addition, all expenditures will be published annually and subjected to independent financial audits to guarantee that the revenue is used effectively. Measure F-14 is set to expire on March 31, 2027, unless renewed. Measure L-24, The Atascadero Local Roads and Vital Services Funding Extension Measure, offers a crucial opportunity to extend this successful funding stream and continue the momentum of road and infrastructure improvements for our community. Roads and a well-maintained infrastructure are vital for economic activity, which is why The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce strongly supports Measure L-24.
UPCOMING
PROGRAMS & EVENTS
Register for upcoming events at atascaderochamber.org/events/events-calendar.
Oktoberfest Membership Mixer
Thursday, October 17 | 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Location: Atascadero Lakeside Park in the Zoo Gardens
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce's Annual Oktoberfest Mixer on Thursday, October 17! Join us for a festive celebration featuring live music, sampling of delicious festive food, and refreshing beer and wine. Discover the best of Atascadero and the Central Coast with over 40 local businesses showcasing their products and services.
Holiday Sip & Shop
Friday, December 6 | 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Location: Downtown Atascadero
Tis the season for fun! Celebrate the holiday season with the annual Atascadero Light Up the Downtown and the Sip & Shop. Enjoy wine, beer, cider, and more tastings and treats from 20+ downtown Atascadero businesses during our December Sip & Shop with holiday festivities, live music, and plenty of fun.
RECENT
CHANGES FOR REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS
OWNER/BROKER BRE #01706045
Whether through news outlets or conversations with friends and family, you may have read or heard that the National Association of Realtors (NAR) was recently in the middle of a very large lawsuit. The final decision is still in process and thought to be made by the end of 2024. In the meantime, NAR has agreed to make changes ahead of time in the way we (Realtors) do business.
The bulk of the lawsuit and the changes being instituted nationwide — these are not just local changes or state changes — that are going in effect, fall under consumer choice by empowering the consumer in the home buying and selling process. Compensation remains fully negotiable. To clear up a misconception, compensation has always been negotiable. Going forward, the evidence of this change will be in contractual buyer agreements.
Buyer agreements will clearly outline the services to be provided and account for the choice the buyer and agent have when negotiating the terms of their relationship. The written agreement must include:
• A specific and conspicuous disclosure of the amount or rate of compensation the participant will receive or how this amount will be determined to the extent that the participant will receive compensation from any source.
• The amount of compensation in a manner that is objectively ascertainable and not open-ended.
• A term that prohibits the participant from receiving compensation from brokerage services from any source that exceeds the amount or rate agreed to in the agreement with the buyer.
• A conspicuous statement that broker fees and commissions are not set by law and are fully negotiable.
*Information obtained from NAR.
So, what does this mean in today’s world when you have made the decision to purchase a home? When you select your agent to work with you, you will need to sit down with them and discuss and sign either a Buyer’s Broker Agreement or a Property Showing & Representation Agreement. A Buyer’s Broker Agreement can be a non-exclusive or exclusive contract. The agreement stipulates locations and types of properties that the agent is responsible for working with you on and further explains when compensation is due. This has to happen before you are shown any homes. At that meeting, you are negotiating with
your agent the amount of compensation you, the buyer, are willing to pay the agent for their services. That sounds a bit scary, I get it. But understand there are two main ways a buyer’s broker can be compensated during a transaction for the purchase of your home.
1. The first way the buyer’s broker will be compensated is by direct payment based on a written agreement signed by you, the buyer. The buyer contractually commits to paying their own agent/broker and in fact pays that fee directly to the broker.
2. The second way the buyer’s broker will be compensated begins the same way, but instead of the buyer paying their own broker directly, the buyer asks the seller through the terms of the purchase agreement to contribute towards the buyer’s obligatory fee. The residential purchase agreement can be used to negotiate compensation from the seller to the buyer’s broker. If the seller is willing to pay the compensation to the buyer’s broker, then the buyer no longer has to pay the buyer’s broker directly. The seller is satisfying the fee and obligation for the buyer. But if the seller is only willing to contribute part of the agreed upon compensation, then the buyer would be required to pay the remaining amount to the buyer’s broker.
*Information obtained from NAR.
Historically, in California, many sellers' brokers used a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to make a unilateral offer to compensate a buyer’s broker who procured a buyer for the seller’s property. However, the nationwide NAR settlement prohibits the seller’s broker from using an MLS to make such an offer of compensation. The California Association of Realtors (CAR) Listing Agreement forms no longer provide for such offers of cooperating broker compensation, nor does CAR include other forms in its library of forms that might facilitate such offers. Buyers and sellers must separately negotiate compensation with their respective agent/brokers. Then, buyers must use the Residential Purchase Agreement to negotiate with the seller the terms for purchase, which can include the seller paying the buyer’s agent/broker fee.
This article generalizes the monumental changes that have taken place, but I hope that it gives those who are curious or contemplating a purchase a little bit of insight into how these changes will affect you when it’s time for you to purchase or sell a home.
Though change can be disconcerting, trust your real estate team. They understand the process and will walk you through it. The takeaway here is that it matters who you work with. As a buyer, take your time to find the right agent. This typically is the largest purchase you will ever make in your lifetime, so take some time upfront to interview different agents; it could save you in many ways in the long run.
JAIME SILVEIRA
While organizing our annual safety preparedness meeting, I was reminded of Sheriff Ian Parkinson’s insightful comments that “We can address our issues proactively, one relationship at a time.” The sheriff’s words underscored the importance of community and the virtues of patience, flexibility, and kindness. The Great Kindness Challenge, a shining example of this, began as a “backyard club of caring kids” and has blossomed into a global movement. With over 19 million youth in 121 countries actively fostering a culture of peace
and kindness, The Great Kindness Challenge is a testament to the power of community and the potential for positive change.
A sense of belonging, purpose, and support grows when we foster relationships, build community, and practice kindness. Belonging, purpose, and support are vital for our psychological well-being and help us feel connected to others. Social media and even what was once considered traditional media are often consumed with quantity over quality, splash over detail, and rumor consistently outshines fact. As I age, I value my authentic and genuine relationships with people who love, respect, and accept me. Today’s schools face multiple linguistic, cultural, religious, ethnic, and racial issues that are best approached through a caring community that practices patience, flexibility, and kindness.
Our school and community leaders meet regularly to discuss the needs, perspectives, and challenges of the individuals we serve. The role of public agencies in addressing these needs and building up our entire community is crucial. School and community violence prevention continues to be a topic of my monthly Superintendent’s Council meetings. The council, which includes school leadership, law enforcement, mental health professionals, and social services,
is a testament to the importance of local community-building efforts.
Our meetings aim to facilitate multi-agency communication and collaboration, present positive strategies for community engagement, and build up the county. Because of the Sheriff’s efforts along with the Office of Emergency Services, San Luis Obispo County is one of the first in the state to map every school campus and better connect the community digitally. Because research indicates that violence prevention programs structured in ways to build community capacity are the most successful, our ongoing meetings commit to providing at least one proactive suggestion that might mitigate personal or agency disconnect. The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education, along with school districts, charter schools, the District Attorney, the Sheriff’s Office, the Chief of Probation, and local police chiefs, meet regularly to build community, strengthen communication pathways, and address safety issues. I believe that together, we can invest in our future by facilitating multiagency communications, working collectively, and acknowledging that each of us, in our unique roles, is a vital part of our shared community. It is an honor to serve as your County Superintendent of Schools.
JAMES BRESCIA, ED.D
JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT YOU’VE SEEN EVERYTHING
By Ian Parkinson San Luis Obispo County Sheriff
In my 40 years of law enforcement experience, it’s fair to say I’ve seen my share of routine crimes, from burglaries to shoplifting to trespassing. But every now and then, something happens that causes you to pause for a minute and wonder what exactly just happened. Such was the case recently when what started out as a suspicious vehicle call turned into something much more than any of us could have imagined. So, under the heading of “just when you thought you’ve seen everything,” comes this story.
It all started when the Sheriff’s Office got a report about a suspicious vehicle parked off Los Osos Valley Road in Los Osos. The vehicle wasn’t your average car — it was actually the front portion of a military-style tractor-trailer. When deputies arrived to check it out, things took an unexpected turn. When deputies approached the driver regarding the lack of registration for the vehicle, the driver sped off into Montana de Oro State Park, even breaking through a gate. The vehicle finally ended up
on Sandspit Beach, getting stuck in the sand. That’s when things got more bizarre. Deputies, Harbor Patrol, the Coast Guard, and State Park Rangers quickly set up a perimeter around the truck, hoping to resolve the situation peacefully.
But the driver wasn’t budging. The Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Detail (SED) was called in, and after more unsuccessful attempts to get the suspect to surrender, they had to eventually use tear gas. Finally, the driver gave up and was taken into custody.
At first, no one knew who the driver was, but he’s since been identified as 63-year-old Patrick Kevin VanNess from Los Angeles. And here’s where it gets really wild. Sheriff’s detectives discovered the vehicle was a stolen M1070 Heavy Equipment Transport, the kind that’s used to haul around M1 Abrams tanks for the U.S. military. This high-tech rig, worth over $500,000, was taken before it could be delivered from the manufacturer in Wisconsin to its military destination in Southern California. VanNess is facing charges for stealing this massive military vehicle.
The recovery of the vehicle was a challenge. The M1070 got stuck several times in the sand, but with help from California State Parks and the California Army National Guard, the vehicle was successfully removed from the beach the next day.
The Sheriff’s Office wants to extend a big thank you to everyone involved in the recovery effort. The investigation is still ongoing, and we’ll keep you posted if there are any new developments. In the meantime, we are still trying to figure out the motivations of the suspect.
This is an incident that started off as bizarre and got even more so as it unfolded. But it also shows you how things can quickly escalate to the point where it can endanger the safety of the public. That’s why I want to thank the deputies, SED team and everyone else who were involved in this incident for staying cool, calm, and collected, which resulted in a peaceful ending to this ordeal. That’s our goal for every incident we respond to, no matter how routine or just plain weird.
A pumpkin love affair
For me, October means pumpkins. I am fascinated with them. I collect pumpkin recipes (along with potato salad recipes), and I decorate with pumpkins. One cookbook author called her passion for pumpkins a "love affair," and that might be right for me, too.
When I was growing up in the '40s and '50s, pumpkins were orange, and they all looked alike, except for their size. Now, we have wonderful choices of shape, color, and texture. Who can resist visiting one of our county's many pumpkin
The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie
Ingredients:
• 1 unbaked pie crust for 11-inch pie pan (homemade or commercial)
Dried beans for pre-baking crust
Filling:
• 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin purée (not pie filling) (I use Libby's)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line an 11-inch pie pan with unbaked pie crust and place it on a sheet pan. Line the crust with parchment paper. Fill the paper three-quarters full with beans and bake the crust for 15 minutes, until the edges start to brown. Remove the beans and paper (save beans for another time), prick the crust all over with the tines of a fork, and bake for another 5 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees. In a large bowl whisk together pumpkin, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, orange zest,
Rum Whipped Cream
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cold heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons sugar
patches to select just the right ones for our recipes and our home decorations?
The recipes for this month are from my collection. Remember that you can be creative with most recipes and make them your own. If you don't have a pan that the recipe calls for, don't hesitate to substitute; just try to "come close."
When it comes to pie crust, my mother was the "queen of pie" crust, but I am not! So, when Pillsbury came out with a commercial crust, I was elated. I know, I know, there's nothing like homemade, but at least I can bake a pie!
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
3 extra-large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons dark rum
• Rum Whipped Cream (recipe follows)
eggs, cream, milk, and rum. Pour filling into baked pie shell. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, until the filling is just set in the middle and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Set aside to cool completely. Serve with rum whipped cream. Serves 8 to 10.
Note: Commercial pie crust packages usually contain 2 crusts, so you will have enough dough to make an 11-inch crust. Use the leftovers to make some little tarts for the kids by cutting circles with a biscuit cutter, adding a little butter, sugar, and cinnamon, and fold in half. Seal edges with the tines of a fork and bake until golden.
• 1/3 cup chopped red bell pepper 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
• 1 long, skinny baguette, thinly sliced on the diagonal
Directions:
• 1 tablespoon mascarpone or crème fraîche
• 1 tablespoon dark rum
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Place cream in bowl of electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment and beat on medium speed for 1 minute. Add sugar, mascarpone, rum, and
vanilla and beat on medium-high until soft peaks form. Serve with the pumpkin pie. This next recipe for a dip will surprise your guest when they find out you used canned pumpkin.
Beat together cream cheese, pumpkin, garlic, onion, cumin, and chili powder until smooth and creamy. Stir in beef, green and red bell peppers, and lime juice. Spoon into small serving bowl, sprinkle with cilantro, and chill. Serve with sliced baguette. Makes 2 cups Note: Dried beef can be found in jars on supermarket shelves or packaged in the deli section.
Happy Pumpkin Days. Cheers!
Photos by Rick Evans
First-Ever A-Town Art Hop
Brings Art, Music, and Community to Life Downtown
On September 6, Atascadero’s downtown came alive with the first-ever A-Town Art Hop, a free, self-guided art tour blending local businesses and art. The event, organized by photographer Linda Macchia, Amy Beams of Golden State Goods, and Erik Davison, aimed to connect commerce, artists, and the community.
A total of 37 businesses participated, showcasing the work of over 40 artists, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, poetry, and more. The Art Hop featured live music performances on El Camino Real by Alexander Parlee and the Ellipses, Kris Chavez, and Sarah Blackburn, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Liz Lucas, a linocut artist, praised the event for its smooth execution and community spirit. The positive reception from both businesses and locals highlighted the event’s success in fostering collaboration between art and commerce. Some businesses even planned their own artist collaborations.
Macchia emphasized the event’s mission to “inspire” by fostering a creative community. While some initially misunderstood the event as a vendor pop-up, the focus was on creating a unique artistic experience. Due to the success and strong feedback, the A-Town Art Hop team plans to host the event quarterly. Interested artists and businesses can learn more at atownarthop.org.
11th Annual Brew at the Zoo
Funds Raised for Wildlife Conservation in Atascadero
On September 7, the 11th annual Brew at the Zoo drew a crowd of attendees, volunteers, vendors, breweries, pastry booths, food trucks, and even shaved ice stands. Visitors enjoyed their drinks as they strolled through the Charles Paddock Zoo in Atascadero, taking in the sights and sounds of the animals. Brew at the Zoo is a biannual fundraising event, with proceeds supporting the zoo's mission of wildlife conservation.
This was the second Brew at the Zoo of the year, highlighting the zoo’s dedication to protecting endangered species, educating the community about wildlife, and offering a fun and engaging experience for Central Coast residents and visitors alike. All event proceeds go directly toward supporting the zoo’s conservation and education efforts.
“It’s not your typical brew or winery event; you’re here with animals from around the world," said Rachelle Rickard, incoming president of the Friends of the Charles Paddock Zoo. "It’s a unique environment that makes it more interesting and special.”
Brew at the Zoo will return next year, but in the meantime, be sure to explore other exciting local events. Visit visitatascadero.com/events/ for more information.
Photos by Rick Evans
October Calendar of Events
competition, as well as live music.
OCTOBER 3
WOMAN OF INFLUENCE NORTH COUNTY LUNCHEON
SPRINGHILL SUITES BY MARRIOTT
900 EL CAMINO REAL, ATASCADERO 11:30am-1:30pm
Celebrate three extraordinary women nominated from our North County community for the Women Of Influence North County (wINC) program. Visit atascaderochamber. org/women-of-influence-northcounty/#Program-Speakers
OCTOBER 4
FALL FIRST FRIDAYS CONCERT
DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO
6-7pm
Enjoy an evening of music while lounging on a blanket or chairs under the fall sky. Vendors will be present for food and drink purchases.
OCTOBER 5
THE ANNUAL COLONY DAYS
DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO
10am-3pm
Enjoy the parade and activities throughout downtown and Sunken Gardens with tours of City Hall and the Colony House in celebration of the early days of Atascadero. For information, visit colonydays.org.
OCTOBER 11 AND 12
MORRO BAY MARITIME FESTIVAL
TIDELANDS PARK AND MARITIME
MUSEUM, MORRO BAY
Oct. 11 4-8pm, Oct. 12, 10am-4pm
In celebration of Maritime Festival, two free events will be offered to enjoy: a concert featuring Zongo All-Stars at Tidelands Park with food and beverage vendors. People can go to carnival-style Morro Bay Free Family Fun Day at the Morro Bay Maritime Museum, where there will be many activities, including a blindtasting blueberry muffin and chowder
OCTOBER 12
94TH ANNUAL PASO ROBLES PIONEER DAY
DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES 10am
Bring the entire family and enjoy viewing running antique tractors, horse-drawn wagons, marching bands, mounted equestrian groups, dancers, floats, fire engines, vintage cars, and more. And the best part? It's free!
WAYNE COOPER MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
CHALK MOUNTAIN GOLF COURSE, ATASCADERO 7am
Support LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero while enjoying a fantastic day on the greens. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, this event promises friendly competition, great prizes, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in our community.
SANTA CRUZ ANIMAL HEALTH OPEN HOUSE
3600 DRY CREEK ROAD, PASO ROBLES 11am-3pm
Stop by Santa Cruz Animal Health for their annual Customer Appreciation BBQ Luncheon and Open House. There will be donuts and coffee in the morning, a BBQ lunch served from 11am-3pm, raffles and in store discounts all day! Visit scahealth.com for more information.
OCTOBER 19
ANNUAL GOLDEN OAK HONEY AND PUMPKIN FESTIVAL AND KIDS’ FLEA MARKET
DOWNTOWN CITY PARK, PASO ROBLES 10am-5pm
Bask in a fun day of honey, demonstrations, antiques, arts, crafts, pie-eating contest and a variety of merchandise to purchase, including at the Kids’ Flea Market.
EVENT DETAILS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE verify prior to attending.
OCTOBER 25
CORPORATE CUP TEAM BUILDING
PASO ROBLES SPORTS CLUB
2975 Union Rd, Paso Robles 9am
Compete, eat, and drink your way through the day while you connect, collaborate, and contend with your fellow team members and business community. Go head-to-head with fellow businesses in a series of exciting games such as pickleball, cornhole, basketball, obstacle courses, and more, designed to boost colleague morale, spark creativity, and supercharge your team spirit.
OCTOBER 25-26
ZOO BOO
CHARLES PADDOCK ZOO, ATASCADERO 5-8:30pm
The event promises Halloweenthemed adornments all around the Zoo, along with a medley of carnival games, a costume competition, Halloween-themed undertakings, a haunted house, and a collection of tricks and treats to relish. With over 200 residents the Charles Paddock Zoo is the backdrop for this engaging and unforgettable Halloween celebration.
OCTOBER 26
PASO ROBLES DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL
DOWNTOWN CITY PARK, PASO ROBLES 10am-4pm
Join in the cultural celebration that will include educational and children’s activities, food, dance, music, vendors of cultural wares, and more.
PASO AUTO WRECKING BENEFIT BBQ
ESTRELLA WARBIRD MUSEUM 4251 DRY CREEK RD, PASO ROBLES 1am-4pm
805 Community Car Care Centers is hosting a car show fundraiser to support rebuilding Paso Robles Auto Wrecking after a devastating fire.
3RD ANNUAL BOVINE CLASSIC
SUNKEN GARDENS, ATASCADERO AND PASO ROBLES
8:30am
Get ready for a weekend of worldclass cycling and a taste of the SLO Life. The event has limited space and multiple routes, so if you want to be part of this year's herd be sure to visit thebovineclassic.com for full event information and registration.
34TH ANNUAL ALMOND COUNTRY CHARITY
QUILT AUCTION & CRAFT BOUTIQUE
QUAIL RUN ESTATES CLUBHOUSE 1400 QUAIL RUN AVE, PASO ROBLES 1-5pm Craft Boutique Open / 3-5pm Live Quilt Auction
Among the items being auctioned are bed-sized quilts, throws and wall hangings in a wide variety of styles and colors. In the craft boutique you will find a huge selection of holiday and other handmade/crafted items as well as smaller quilted projects. The charities chosen to receive auction proceeds this year are Operation Surf, and New Life K9s. Both charities offer support, hope and healing to service men and women suffering from the effects of PTSD.
OCTOBER 31
TRICK OR TREAT DOWNTON
DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO 5-8pm
People and pets of all ages are welcome to come and enjoy family, children, and pet costume contests, games, and of course, Trick or Treating!
SAFE
& FUN HALLOWEEN DOWNTOWN
DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES
3-6pm
Have a costume-fun-time while trick or treating at downtown merchants, trunk or treating around City Park, and taking pictures with witches!
North County Restaurant Group raises funds for ALF Food Pantry
By Christianna Marks
In August, The North County Restaurant Group (NCRG) and ALF Food Pantry teamed up for a month-long fundraiser that ended up raising $3,500 dollars for the nonprofit and brought in multiple future volunteers for San Luis Obispo County's largest all-volunteer organization.
The collaboration started when ALF Food Pantry Board Member Lynne Martin, and the NCRG Controller Tara Tedeschi, randomly met and struck up a conversation, and the rest is history.
"It was actually quite serendipitous. I was at one of our establishments, Colony Sandwich Co., grabbing lunch and sat down next to Lynne and a friend of hers. We got to chatting, and I found out she was involved with ALF, and she had actually been wanting to get in touch with somebody, one of our restaurants, and we got to talking, and we came up with a plan," said Tara.
"They were fantastic," said Lynne of the NCRG. "Tara is a marvelously organized person, and she worked each week with me and each of them, whatever restaurant was next, and we met with the managers, and they were gracious and
lovely and put up our signs and everything for us to alert people about the event."
Lynne added that NCRG also did a ton of social media campaigning and did all they could to promote the fundraiser, which donated 10 percent of each Wednesday's participating restaurant's proceeds. The NCRG's participating dining establishments were Street Side Ale House, Guest House Grill, Jack's Bar and Grill, and Cielo.
"Part of our mission statement, as a whole, with NCRG and the owners Eric Peterson and Trevor LaSalle is to give back to the community in any way we can. Try to be involved in and keep ourselves relevant but also be involved in the community. So it was a great opportunity to meet Lynne," added Tara. "It was fabulous. They [ALF Food Pantry] were all very kind and respectful of our patrons who were visiting our establishments."
During the fundraiser, ALF Food Pantry was also on hand, and at each location, they set up a booth with volunteers taking shifts from opening to closing.
"One of the most impactful aspects of this was the opportunity to speak with people as they came into the restaurants. We were able to
acquaint people with ALF Food Pantry and the work that we do," added Lynne.
Multiple members of the community expressed interest in volunteering with ALF Food Pantry while meeting their representatives. ALF Food Pantry also received cash donations outside of the funds raised by the NCRG because it was allowed to have presents at the fundraiser locations. Though totals from those additional donations have not been calculated, Martin estimated that they raised close to an extra $800. This would bring the total raised for ALF in the month of August to over $4,000.
Lynne said that the fundraiser was a huge success due to it being a team effort and also wanted to thank the Atascadero News/Paso Robles Press and KSBY for media coverage. She added that due to the coverage, more people showed up for the fundraiser and their website traffic went up expodentially.
ALF Food Pantry has been operating for 40 years, and in 2023, they distributed close to 700,000 pounds of much-needed, nutrition-filled food to community members in need.
For more information, to make a donation, or to volunteer, head to alffoodpantry.com.
