Atascadero News • March 7, 2024

visor, the one who comes out of the March election will take the seat. Moreno’s term as mayor runs through 2024, and Councilmember Charles Bourbeau has already announced his bid for that seat. Funk’s term on council runs through 2026.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

COUNTY — The first results of the Primary Election are in from Super Tuesday, March

5. The highlighted run of this election was between current Atascadero Mayor Heather Moreno and Atascadero City Councilmember Susan Funk for the District 5 San Luis Obispo County Supervisor’s seat. The district represents Atascadero, Cal Poly State University (portion), California Valley, Creston, Garden Farms, Pozo, San Luis Obispo (portion), and Santa Margarita. The position is currently held by Supervisor Debbie Arnold, who is not running for re-election.

It is a tight race for District 5. As of the final results report posted just after 12 a.m. Tuesday, Moreno is in the lead at 53.89 percent (4,586 votes) and Susan Funk is at 46.02 percent (3,916) — 670 votes separate the two.

With only two candidates running for District 5 Super-

In response to the midnight results, Moreno told Atascadero News, “I am deeply grateful to everyone who voted for me, supported my candidacy, and actively participated in our campaign. If current trends persist, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to serve our entire county on the Board of Supervisors starting in January. I am dedicated to making a meaningful, positive impact on our community.”

Funk told Atascadero News, “We have run a strong, grassroots campaign, and I am proud and grateful for all the volunteers and voters who have given me their support. Now is the time to tally the ballots. Each voter matters, and each vote counts the same. We will watch and wait as the rest of the ballots are processed and counted.”

According to the San Luis Obispo County Clerk-Recorder Office Voter Information Calendar, the timeline of the election results are:

Local Atascadero diner to be featured on ‘America’s Best Restaurants’

filled the diner with their own energy. Atascadero News also stopped by to see how filming was going.

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com

ATASCADERO — Filming for a new episode of “America’s Best Restaurants” took place at A-Town Diner on Thursday, Feb. 29. The diner has been under the ownership of Robert and Melinda (Mimi) Davis since Sept. 12, 2022. During filming, the diner stayed open to the public, and friends and local customers

“’America’s Best Restaurants’ is in filming. They do a road show, they call it, where they go to diners and restaurants that are privately owned,” Mimi Davis said. “One restaurant, Mom and Pops. They don’t do any corporate. Basically, what they’re trying to do, their goal is to help small restaurants succeed.”

One of Davis’s longtime friends, Debbie McNair, is responsible for A-Town Diner landing on “America’s Best

Restaurants’” radar. McNair reached out and nominated the establishment. Then, the show called up Davis in January of this year and told her they had an opening and would love to feature the diner on their show as part of their first trip out to California.

“When a restaurant gets nominated, they [‘America’s Best Restaurants’] do tons of research to make sure that the restaurant is a fit. So by the time they contacted me, they already knew all about the restaurant. They knew the whole story since there’s been a lot of press since I first took

over in September of ‘22,” added Davis. “They had all of that knowledge, and then they just wanted to talk to me and hear what I would tell them my story was, and I guess since they matched, they’re like, ‘okay, it is you.’”

Even though “America’s Best Restaurants” doesn’t have a broadcast or cable TV show, they will feature the A-Town Diner episode on their YouTube and FaceBook channels. Davis also said that once edits are completed and everything is said and done, she will have complete access

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com

ATASCADERO — This year, Atascadero High School’s (AHS) Earth Club is team-

ing up with the nonprofit Tree-Plenish to host a community-wide tree-planting event on April 20, just in time for Earth Day. They plan to plant 150 saplings throughout Atascadero to counteract the high school’s energy consumption.

“Our goal is to plant 150 trees in April. This number comes directly from a Tree-Plen -

ish Carbon Calculator that combines the square footage of the school and the community’s CO2 emission rate to find a goal,” said AHS Earth Club President Tilly Ralston.

Cal Poly student and Tree-Plenish intern Cali Carson reached out to the club via Instagram to see if AHS would be interested in teaming up with the nonprofit. She

had participated when she was in high school.

“I found out about Tree-Plenish when Cali contacted me, but after I saw her messages I spent some time researching what their [Tree-Plenish] mission is and if it aligned with our club,” added Ralston.

Tree-Plenish’s mission

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS christianna@atascaderonews.com

ATASCADERO — The Atascadero Unified School District (AUSD) Board of Trustees met for its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, March 5, at 7 p.m.

Near the beginning of the meeting, three of Atascadero High School’s (AHS) wrestlers were recognized by their coach, Dan Loney, for their CIF standings at the end of the wrestling season.

“It’s been a privilege to coach these athletes and to stand up here and recognize them,” he said. “Most schools are lucky enough to get one wrestler to State. We were privileged enough to get three, and it just shows their hard work and dedication that they put into the sport. This sport is just not a seasonal sport; it’s a year-round sport. It has to

be done and worked on all year, and [they have to] really put in a lot of effort. So without further ado, we’re going to recognize these student-athletes.”

Senior Kodie Cooks had a record of 21-12, ended third place in CIF, eighth in Masters, and was a CIF qualifier. Junior Skylar Pisor went 35-12, placed third in CIF, fourth in Masters, and was AHS’s girls state qualifier. Junior Kaden Pryor went 31-9, is a two-time CIF Division 3 champion, placed eighth in Masters, and was also a state qualifier.

The minutes from the Feb. 20 meeting and the Consent Agenda both passed unanimously.

Director of Support Services Brent Lloyd gave the board an information-only presentation

(Front, from left) Anise Ralston, Jessica Nonato, Tilly Ralston, Samantha Coloma, Annie Uceda, Liam Lilly (Back, from left) Miara Wooten, Anna Lilly, Trisanee Siharath, Gabrielle Ramsey, and Sebastian Marano are all part of Atascadero High School’s Earth Club and part of the upcoming tree planting event.

Photo provided by

Ralston.

Jay Russel (left) from “America’s Best Restaurants” is shown with

Diner owner Melinda (Mimi) Davis (right) on the day of filming. Photo by Christianna Marks.

‘AMERICA’S BEST RESTAURANTS’

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to everything, including the video, that “America’s Best Restaurants” puts together. She will also be able to share it on all of her own social media platforms as well.

“I’m hoping that the exposure will bring people in that haven’t been in a while. I’m trying to get the business back, not just

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March 12: Last day a ballot postmarked on or before Election Day and received by the Elections Office can be counted

April 2: Mailed Ballot signature verification deadline for Elections Office to verify signature match on incomparable or unsigned Vote-by-Mail identification envelopes

• March 6 through April 4: Registrar of Voters to certify election results

April 12: The final official elections results certified by the California Secretary of State April 16: County of San Luis Obispo Board of Supervisors to declare the results of the March 5, Presidential Primary Election

Below are election results from the March 5 count, which was available at the time of print.

AUSD CONTINUED FROM A1

on the District Preventative and Deferred Maintenance Program.

Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Jackie Martin addressed the trustee board on the Transfer of San Luis Obispo County Office of Education Buildings from their ownership to the AUSD’s ownership.

“We’re the primary people in those facilities. There are some other folks in there, but we’re the primary users and, so it has

EARTH CLUB

CONTINUED FROM A1

So,

making it even, because I’m still struggling financially with the business. I just really want it to take off on its own,” continued Davis. “I love it. I just love the diner.”

The A-Town Diner episode should be up around two months from now if everything goes according to plan. It will feature everything we know and love about the diner, from the staff to the food.

San Luis Obispo County Supervisor District 1

• John Peschong — 99.65 percent (6,243)

San Luis Obispo County Supervisor District 3

Dawn Ortiz-Legg — 94.96 percent (6,682)

San Luis Obispo County Supervisor District 5

• Susan Funk — 46.02 percent (3,916)

• Heather Moreno — 53.89 percent (4,586 votes)

Presidential Primary Election Race (County Results)

Democratic Primary:

Joe Biden — 93.95 percent (20,308)

Republican Party:

• Donald J. Trump — 75.09 percent (14,189)

• Nikki Haley — 21.48 percent (4,058)

been requested that we transfer ownership. It is our property. It’s just the building shells, so this transfer would be at no cost,” stated Martin.

The motion passed unanimously that Martin will sign a quick claim release of liability to transfer ownership of those buildings from the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education into AUSD’s hands.

Martin also brought the board

Resolution #16-23-24 Positive

Certification 2023-2024 Second Interim Budget for the report-

ing period ending on Jan. 31, 2024. The board passed the first interim was what the AUSD knew as of Oct. 31, 2023. She went over the biggest changes since then.

Those changes are enrollment and P-1 attendance. Martin also commented on the governor’s recent release of a proposed budget, which means the district now knows what to prepare for in the 24/25 school year.

“At the last board meeting, the board did approve the

to seniors, decided to host its event in April, so close to Earth Day.

“It means a lot to me that I was able to bring this event to our school because sustainability and helping the Earth is so important to me, which is why I joined Earth Club, so to be able to bring new opportunities like this to our club and town is really special,” Ralston continued.

Sapplings are currently on sale and will be available for Atascadero residents to order until March 20. There are three tree varieties that you

“If people drive through and say, ‘I saw you on that show,’ it would be so cool for me. That would be very cool,” concluded Davis.

To find out more about “America’s Best Restaurants,” go to americasbestrestaurants.com. And keep an eye out for the episode in the near future on their YouTube channel, youtube. com/channel/UCtXJc0pAZRPnmsgrHkgietQ.

OTHER NOTABLE NORTH COUNTY RACES

• California US Senate (Full Term) — Adam Schiff is currently leading the race at 39.01 percent with Steve Garvey close behind at 33.61 percent.

• California US Senate Special (Partial Term) — Steve Garvey is in the lead with 35.61 percent and Adam Schiff follows close at 32.89 percent

• Prop 1 Behavioral Health Services Measure — 51.39 percent voting no and 48.61 percent voting yes. California US House District 19 — Jason Anderson is in the lead with 50.14 percent and Jimmy Panetta following with 46.99 percent.

• California US House District 24 — Salud Carbajal is in the lead with 58.36 percent and Thomas Cole in second with 36.35 percent.

Arts, Music, and Instructional Materials Discretionary Block Grant that we could expand for our curriculum adoptions. We’re projecting around a million dollars maybe this year if it’s received by the end of June and then another half-a-million or so next year for much-needed adoptions,” said Martin.

The district will go from a 3.94 percent COLA to a 0.74 COLA, which will result in a $1.5 million reduction in projected revenues for AUSD.

“We’re going to do our best

• California State Senate District 17 — John Laird is currently in the lead with 55.57 percent and Tony Virrueta follows behind with 27.19 percent.

California State Senate District 21 — Monique S. Limon is in the lead with 53.39 percent with Elijah Mack 46.57 percent.

• California State Assembly District 30

— Dawn Addis is in the lead with 56.80 percent and Dalila Epperson with 43.15 percent.

• California State Assembly District 37

— Gregg Hart 51.66 percent, with Sari Domingues following behind with 48.32 percent.

For voting inquiries, contact the Elections Office at (805) 781-5228 or elections@co.slo. ca.us. Additional information can be found on the Voter FAQ page, and detailed election information at slovote.com/March2024.

to try to react now because that’s why you do a multiyear,” Martin said. “If it looks like things are starting to slide and not look so good, you try to everything you can as early as possible so you kind of level that out. So by the time you get to year three, you’ve already probably got most of it corrected, and you don’t have to make a sudden hard decision. So, we’re going to continue to watch. What I can tell you is we’re solvent, we’re well above our three percent, even projecting

can choose from: Santina Cherry, Royal Blenheim Apricot, and Picual Olive.

“For $5, they [the community] can buy a sapling that will be either taken to their home and planted, or they can pick it up at the high school on April 20. Their purchase will help to to help offset Atascadero High School’s energy consumption,” said Ralston.

The saplings are bareroot saplings and will remain dormant until you plant them. In four to six weeks you should have beautiful blooms, and

out to 26/27 with the strategies we have in place, but it’s early. We’re still going to be making a lot of changes to 24/25, 25/26, 26/27 as we go along and things change.”

The motion passed, stating that the district meets this year’s financial requirements and will be above minimum reserves for two years for a positive certification.

The next regularly scheduled AUSD Board of Trustees meeting will be on Tuesday, March 19, at 7 p.m.

your fruit will be on the way. The community can participate by buying saplings, volunteering to help plant them or spreading the word about the tree-planting event.

“I would like to thank all of the people who decide to purchase a sapling or volunteer to help, because they are very appreciated,” concluded Ralston.

To find out more about the AHS Earth Club’s tree planting event, purchase a sapling, or volunteer, head to tpevents.org/school/4123.

“America’s Best Restaurants” travels around the country to find locally owned restaurants to promote. A-Town Diner remained open during filming of its webisode. Photos by Christianna Marks

PASO ROBLES

Loud bang causes shelter in place at Pat Butler Elementary

On Wednesday, Feb. 28, a single, loud bang was heard on Pat Butler Elementary School campus in Paso Robles. Staff at the school decided to go into shelter-in-place while school resource officers cleared the campus.

It was later determined that the loud bang was created by an old basketball that had burst from the seams.

Nickelback announced for 2024 California Mid-State Fair

The California Mid-State Fair announced that Nickelback has been confirmed to perform in concert on Wednesday, July 24. Special guest Dillon James will open the show starting at 7:30 p.m. The concert will take place in the Chumash Grandstand Arena at the Paso Robles Event Center and is part of the Michelob Ultra Concert Series presented by Visit SLO CAL.

Ticket prices for the show are $50, $90, $130, and $175 and will go on sale Friday, March 8, starting at 10 a.m. to the general public. New this year is a program called “Local Fan of the Fair” which will allow registered local fans one-hour early access to purchase tickets. For more information about this early access, please visit MidStateFair.com.

Tickets can be purchased on the California Mid-State Fair’s Official website MidStateFair. com. The Box Office cannot guarantee the authenticity or validity of any tickets purchased outside of our official channel.

A 2023 Canadian Music Hall of Fame recipient and Diamond-certified selling group, Nickelback was named the “most successful rock band of the decade” by Billboard in 2009. Globally celebrated for their career-defining and award-winning hits “How You Remind Me,” “Photograph,” “Far Away,” “Rockstar,” and more, the four-piece comprised of Chad Kroeger, Ryan Peake, Mike Kroeger, and Daniel Adair is one of the most commercially viable and important acts of the past two decades. Their success includes worldwide sales of more than 50 million units, solidifying their status as one of the top-selling acts of all time and the second best-selling foreign act in the U.S., in the 2000s decade, behind only The Beatles. Their inescapable and irresistible smash “How You Remind Me” was named Billboard’s “Top Rock Song of the Decade” and was the number-one most-played song on U.S. radio (any format) in the 2000s according to Nielsen Soundscan, with over 1.2 million spins.

Amongst all of these accolades, they’ve also been named Billboard’s “Top Rock Group of the Decade” and received nine Grammy Award nominations, three American Music Awards, a World Music Award, a People’s Choice Award, twelve JUNO Awards, seven MuchMusic Video Awards, and have been inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame (2007) and the Canadian

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Music Hall of Fame (2023). With more than 23 chart-topping singles and fans spanning the globe, Nickelback boasts more than twelve consecutive sold-out world tours, playing to well over 10 million-plus diehard and adoring fans. The band recently wrapped the 52-date North American leg of the Get Rollin’ Tour on Oct. 5 and most recently debuted the documentary “Hate To Love: Nickelback” at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival.

Born and raised in Bakersfield, Dillon James was influenced by the city’s unique blend of rock n’ roll and country music from an early age. James was first drawn to classic rock, though his tastes diversified to the likes of City And Color, Glen Campbell, Jeff Buckley, George Strait, and Bob Dylan by the time he began writing his own music as a teen. Combined with inspiration from the local sounds of Merle Haggard and Buck Owens, James developed the soulful vocals that now characterize his music.

Dillon’s tendency to win singer-songwriter competitions led to a brief stint working as an actor in Los Angeles, followed by a turbulent period of substance abuse and homelessness. During this painful time Dillon realized that if he could heal himself and achieve his lifelong dream of becoming a singer songwriter, he could become a living testament to others as well. Dillon accomplished his goal and, following a successful run on American Idol, moved to Nashville to write and record his debut album.

Whereas James’ early songs were largely autobiographical, his forthcoming project will guide fans through a cohesive body of work like the classic Rock and Country albums of his hometown. In his own words, “human connection his goal, music is just the vessel.” Dillon James is signed to Hollywood Records/Universal Nashville and is managed by Simon Tikhman and Chief Zaruk of The Core Entertainment.

The 2024 California Mid-State Fair takes place in Paso Robles, and runs July 17 through July 28.

Shandon High School teacher honored as California finalist for Ag Educator of the Year

Educators devote countless time, and often their own resources, to help students pursue their passions. The California FFA, California Farm Bureau and Nationwide identified Deanna Morton, an agricultural teacher at Shandon High School, as a finalist for the 2023-2024 Ag Educator of the Year honor through Nationwide’s Golden Owl Award.

From Sept. 1 through Jan. 16, nominations were collected statewide for top agricultural teachers from local students, parents, fellow teachers and community members across California.

Highlighting the profound influence of the FFA, California Farm Bureau President and FFA alumna Shannon Douglass emphasized the significant impact it has on shaping leaders in agriculture.

“Farm Bureau sees firsthand

the tremendous impact that FFA makes, as many of our current leaders across agriculture have roots in FFA,” reflected Douglass. “We are so appreciative of the hard-working ag teachers who provide a great foundation for FFA members that in turn benefits all of agriculture.”

Morton will be presented with a plaque and a $500 check in front of fellow teachers, students, and supporters at the 2024 State FFA Leadership Conference, March 21-24 in Sacramento. All six finalists will be considered for California’s Ag Educator of the Year Award, earning an additional $3,000 and the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy. The winner will be announced on stage at the conference.

“California FFA is thrilled to collaborate with Nationwide and the California Farm Bureau in honoring exceptional agricultural educators and FFA advisors,” stated Charles Parker, State FFA advisor. “The six state finalists showcase extraordinary commitment to equipping students with foundational skills, leadership qualities, and essential knowledge for the future. These educators extend beyond traditional classroom instruction, ensuring students are thoroughly prepared for success.”

Nationwide established the Golden Owl Award to honor the contributions of teachers and support their programs with additional resources to assist their continued educational efforts.

This year, the award program honors outstanding ag educators in eleven states: California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota.

“As the need grows for more ag educators across the nation, we are proud to thank and honor these hardworking agricultural teachers for their dedication,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “These educators play a crucial role in preparing students for successful careers in the industry.”

In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is contributing $5,000 to the California FFA Foundation, enhancing support for the personal and professional development of both students and advisors.

Visit California names Travel Paso-Wine Country Alliance partnership 2024 Poppy Awards finalist

Visit California has named Travel Paso a 2024 Poppy Awards finalist for “Best Strategic Partnership: Destination” with the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance (PRWCA). The state-wide awards category celebrates this specific destination marketing initiative started in 2022 when the two organizations came together to support the rebound of tourism after the COVID pandemic.

“This nomination recognizes the importance of collaboration in our region and represents the values both Travel Paso and the Wine Country Alliance hold in promoting our winemakers, restaurant owners and the entire travel and tourism economy in the Paso Robles area,” said Stacie Jacob, president & CEO of Travel Paso.

“We’re thrilled to receive the acknowledgement for our work in creating a joint initiative that helped bring back tourism and travelers to our destination while in turn highlighting the world class wine region,” said Joel Peterson, executive director of the

Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance.

Travel Paso is the destination marketing organization stewarding the region to benefit its lodging partners, and the PRWCA is a cooperative marketing alliance made up of wineries, vineyards and related business.

Joining forces, the two groups organized four separate events, each a different touchpoint across core markets for the region.

In partnership with Wine Enthusiast magazine, the organizations led a group of nearly 50 participants through an incredible three-day retreat called “Blaze Your Own Trail,” highlighting the Paso Robles area. The marketing alignment with the nationally renown magazine generated four full-page ads, an online digital campaign, coverage of the event in the magazine as well as inclusion in the Wine Enthusiast podcast. Not to mention many Paso brands being recognized in the publications annual Wine Star Awards.

Teaming up, the Travel Paso - PRWCA marketing duo also organized and executed a wine tasting “roadshow” visiting key out-of-state markets including Denver, Dallas, and Scottsdale in addition to San Diego to promote the region as a state of the art wine, food and travel destination. The roadshow featured media dinners, trade and media tastings as well as on-air media appearances promoting Paso as a region and featuring highlights including the newly lauded Michelin star restaurants, phenomenal wine region and the incredible location, which is second to none in the state of California.

The marquee partnership Savor Paso, a consumer-facing event at PayPal Park in San Jose in June 2023, reached more than 700 wine fans and the return in 2024 is now set for June 13. The duo co-sponsored the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival last November creating the largest destination presence in this key market now serviced with a direct daily flight.

The 2024 Poppy Award winners will be announced at the upcoming Visit California Outlook Forum in Palm Springs in March. For more, visit TravelPaso.com, PasoWine. com or for the awards: industry. visitcalifornia.com/more/newsroom/2024-poppy-awards-finalists

ATASCADERO

Fatal collision on El Camino Real under investigation

On Friday, March 1, The Atascadero Police Department received a call of a traffic collision involving a pedestrian just before 8:30 p.m. The collision occurred on El Camino Real near the intersection of San Gabriel Road. Units from both police and fire departments responded and, upon their arrival, found the pedestrian, an adult male, had succumbed to his injuries. The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending the notification of his next of kin.

El Camino Real was closed in the area for almost two hours while the department’s traffic investigator and patrol officers photographed and processed the collision scene. The investigation is ongoing, and the department will be working to gather and review evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the events leading up to the collision.

According to the press release from APD (Atascadero Police Department), factors such as vehicle speed, weather, and road conditions, and pedestrian right-of-way will all be carefully analyzed to establish a clear understanding of the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Alcohol and drugs have been ruled out on the part of the driver.

Purchase early bird tickets now for the Atascadero Wine Fest

Early Bird tickets to the Atascadero Wine Fest are now on sale. Tickets are $65 now through April 30. The Wine Festival will take place on Saturday, June 22, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Atascadero Lake Park.

Thousands of wine lovers will pour into Atascadero’s sun-splashed lakeside location for an afternoon of sun, wine, food, and music. Attendees will taste over 100 wines, beers, and spirits together with local purveyors of art and hand-crafted items. The Joy Bonner Band and soloist Dulcie Taylor will keep the beat going for an afternoon of fun.

“As a wine enthusiast, I have been to my fair share of wine festivals, and this year’s Atascadero Wine Fest promises to be different and exceed attendees’ expectations. The picturesque and casual lakeside setting, paired alongside conversations with winemakers and owners, will be a must-attend event. Attendees will leave smiling with a newfound appreciation of the wines from our region,” said Evan Taylor, Wine Festival Committee Member.

Tickets can be purchased online at atascaderowinefest. com or by calling the Atascadero

Chamber of Commerce at (805) 466-2044.

On May 1, pricing will increase to $75, and tickets at the door will be $90. Non-drinker tickets are $30.

If you are interested in participating in the 2024 Atascadero Wine Fest as a vendor, please contact Gail Kudlac at atascaderowinefestival@gmail.com.

Volunteers are an integral part of the Festival. All volunteers receive a Festival hat, snacks, and a complimentary ticket. Those who volunteer for the closing shift (7:45 to 10 p.m.) also receive a Central Coast Wine Passport valued at $75 to use for the rest of the year. To volunteer, contact Dawn Smith at dawn@ atascaderochamber.org or (303) 968-7049.

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

SLO County Beaver Festival returns on March 23

The SLO County Beaver Brigade is bringing the Second Annual SLO County Beaver Festival to Mission Plaza on Saturday, March 23, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Music, expert speakers, and family-fun activities will come together to celebrate beavers at this free, family-friendly event.

Leila Philip, author of “Beaverland,” will speak onstage and there will be live music performances by songwriter Elliott Johnson and Cuyama Mama and the Hot Flashes. Local and statewide organizations will share materials about their efforts to protect the environment and celebrate our biodiversity. Last year’s event was widely popular, and this year, with support from the City of San Luis Obispo Cultural Arts and Community Promotions funding, the 2024 Beaver Festival promises even more fun for attendees. A free bike valet will be provided to encourage sustainable transit choices.

Beavers are native to SLO County. They build a series of dams in our rivers and streams that water down, spread it across the landscape, and allow it to sink into the groundwater table. These dams turn single-thread streams into lush wetlands full of life, offering solutions to our most pressing problems, including climate change, wildfires, and droughts. As well as our oceans and bays inundated with pollutants, excess nutrients, trash, and excess sediment.

Event sponsors are the City of San Luis Obispo Cultural

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Restoring Hope

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Arts and Community Promotions, New Times, KCBX, Santa Barbara Permaculture Network, the Santa Barbara Beaver Brigade, Morro Bay Open Space Alliance, the Beaver Institute, and Tetra Tech.

For updates on the Festival, visit the 2024 Beaver Festival webpage at slobeaverbrigade. com/beaver-festival-2024/

To learn more about this event or the Beaver Brigade, or to sign up for a tour or donate to our efforts, visit slobeaverbrigade. com or contact Audrey Taub at audrey@slobeaverbrigade.com or (805) 464-1255.

About The SLO Beaver Brigade

The 2nd Annual SLO County Beaver Festival is organized by the SLO Beaver Brigade, a local organization fiscally sponsored by Ecologistics, Inc. The SLO Beaver Brigade began in 2020 to raise awareness around beavers in San Luis Obispo County and the work beavers do to replenish our groundwater, provide fire refugia, and increase the quality and quantity of water in our creeks and rivers.

The Beaver Brigade also brings process-based restoration techniques to SLO County, along with beaver management tools to allow for people and beavers to share habitat.

The Second Annual SLO County Beaver Festival will showcase the emphasis of the SLO Beaver Brigade on strong public participation and education through river cleanups, citizen science surveys, tours, public art, and trail signage. The SLO Beaver Brigade frequently offers presentations and tours of beaver habitat on a donation basis to the public.

District Attorney announces

settlement with Morro Bay commercial fishing boat operator

The District Attorney’s Office, Special Prosecution Unit has settled a civil enforcement action with commercial fisherman Brad Leage, a commercial sport-fishing operator. Leage operates the boat, “The Endeavor,” a 55-foot commercial charter fishing vessel based at Morro Bay. The charter boat service regularly takes dozens of paying passengers on deep-sea fishing trips along the coastal waters of San Luis Obispo.

Commercial fishing is a highly regulated business in California with a purpose to protect the long-term sustainability of California’s coastal ecosystems. Officers of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) are entrusted with protecting the state’s precious marine resources by patrolling and enforcing fishing laws along California’s 840-mile-long coastline.

In 2019 and 2021, undercover CDFW officers participated in two sport fishing trips with Mr. Leage on the Endeavor. On both fishing trips, Mr. Leage admitted that he inaccurately reported the number of crew fishing on the trip and exceeded legal catch limits. Mr. Leage also admitted that some customers exceeded legal fish limits and caused the waste of fish.

“The California Department of Fish and Wildlife rely upon commercial fishermen to accurately report fishing activities for the successful management of fisheries off our Central Coast,” said Assistant District Attorney Eric Dobroth. “The opportunity to take fish and wildlife resources in California requires a high

RECORD

degree of mutual trust between the public and law enforcement. Commercial fishing regulations exist to ensure the health of our coastal ecosystems for the public’s continued enjoyment and for a sustainable commercial fishing industry.”

The stipulated civil judgment requires Leage to pay civil penalties totaling $12,000. The stipulated judgment also requires Leage to accurately report the number of fish caught on board during sport fishing trips. Finally, the judgment prohibits the crew of the Endeavor from fishing on paid customer trips during the 2024 fishing season.

In addition to the civil enforcement case, the case was also prosecuted criminally. In the criminal case, Leage agreed to follow applicable commercial fishing laws for the next 12 months and comply with the terms of the stipulated civil judgment.

The civil case was investigated by the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Kenneth Jorgensen assigned to the District Attorney’s Consumer and Environmental Protection Unit. The criminal case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorneys Amy Fitzpatrick and Sean Baird.

The Consumer and Environmental Enforcement Unit is committed to the fair enforcement of laws relating to public health and safety. Environmental enforcement focuses the laws that protect public health and safety; including the generation, transportation and disposal of regulated waste, damage to our natural environment and hazardous work-place conditions.

Environmental enforcement

cases can be pursued in either criminal or civil court. Examples of such cases include illegal transportation or disposal of hazardous waste, illegal streambed dumping or alteration, and cases involving worker death or serious injury. The unit also aims to increase public awareness of environmental issues through presentations to local groups when called upon.

Jewel to perform at grand opening of the Trust Automation Plaza at the PAC

The Foundation for the Performing Arts Center (FPAC) announced the grand opening of the Trust Automation Plaza at the San Luis Obispo Performing Arts Center (PAC). To help celebrate this occasion, they announced that the renowned singer/songwriter Jewel will perform at the PAC following the grand opening of the new Plaza.

The enhancement to the PAC Plaza was made possible by the generosity of Cal Poly alumni Ty and Trudie Safreno and Trust Automation. Ty and Trudie epitomize the essence of philanthropy and community. The collaboration between FPAC and Trust Automation is a natural extension of their shared values, with FPAC’s long-standing commitment to community enrichment complementing Trust Automation’s core value of “Community.”

The PAC and FPAC invite the community to join them in celebrating the grand opening of the Trust Automation Plaza on April 6 at 4 p.m., followed by a special guest performance by four-time Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, actress, author,

and mental health advocate Jewel at 7:30 p.m. at the PAC.

Jewel has sold over 30 million albums worldwide, earned 26 Music Award nominations, including the Grammys, American Music Awards, MTV Awards, VH1 Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and Country Music Awards, winning eight times. Tickets are available at pacslo.org.

Couch Family Wines is the presenting sponsor of Jewel. They have provided support to make this concert possible. Net proceeds will benefit the Foundation for the Performing Arts Center. The funds serve to ensure the Performing Arts Center remains accessible by subsidizing costs for local arts organizations through an annual grant program, funding the School Matinee Program allowing students to experience live performances for free, and elevating the performing arts in our community. To learn more, visit fpacslo.org

Enjoy live music and visual art at The Monday Club’s 63rd annual Fine Arts awards competition

The Monday Club SLO announced its 63rd annual Fine Arts Awards Competition at the Historic Monday Club on Sunday, March 11, from 1 to 4 p.m.

At the event, talented junior and senior high school students will compete for cash awards. Finalists will perform jazz and classical music on stage, and visual arts will be on display inside the clubhouse. Family, friends and community members are invited to come and enjoy the performances and congratulate the winners. The event is free and open to

the public. Light refreshments will be provided, and parking is free. Reservations are appreciated but not required and can be made at themondayclubslo.org.

Cotton bales wash ashore on Central Coast

On Saturday, March 2, around 5:06 p.m., an unidentified bale washed ashore 100 feet north of the Cayucos Pier. Leading CalFire to send a report of the item to the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach.

CalFire initially called California Highway Patrol (CHP) about the bale and CHP responded to the area. The U.S. Coast Guard also sent Law Enforcement personnel from Coast Guard Station Morro Bay to support CHP in securing the area from the public.

It was then discovered by CHP that the bale contained cotton inside of it.

The CHP has said that there was a ship that lost its cargo in early November 2023 during large storms. Now, items, including the cotton bale, are washing ashore across the Central Coast.

ROXANA

RICHARD

DIANNA

on 02/23/2024. In the care of Blue Sky Cremation and Burial Service.

MELINDA BERG-ROARK, age 81 a resident of Paso Robles passed away on 02/25/2024.

In the care of Blue Sky Cremation and Burial Service.

RESERVOIR LEVELS

SANTA MARGARITA LAKE

(Salinas Reservoir):103.2% capacity

LOPEZ LAKE: 100.6% capacity

LAKE NACIMIENTO: 91% capacity

LAKE SAN ANTONIO: 77% capacity WHALE ROCK: 100% capacity

|

2023-24

March happenings at the Paso Robles City Library

PASO ROBLES — The Paso Robles City Library has announced its calendar of events and activities happening in March.

Lunch and Learn: Promoting Brain Health

• Date: Tuesday, March 5

• Time: 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

• Location: Library Conference Room

• Join them in collaboration with the SLO County Public Health office for a Lunch and Learn series focusing on brain health, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. Their first session on March 5 will delve into promoting brain health through diet, exercise, social engagement, and cognitive activities. Free lunch provided. Registration required.

Crafting with Adults: Fused Glass Workshop

• Registration Period:

March 1-9

• Date: Wednesday, March 13

Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

• Location: Library Conference Room

• Celebrate National Craft Month with a fused glass workshop led by local artist Sheri Klein. Design your own fused glass dish, plant stakes, or suncatcher. Limited space available. Registration required. Ages 16+.

Crafting with Adults:

Embroidered Lotería Card

• Registration Period: March 8-22

Date: Wednesday, April 3 Time: 6 to 7 p.m.

• Location: Library Conference Room

• Enhance your crafting skills with their Crafting with Adults series. Join us to embroider your own Lotería card. Each participant must register. Limited space available. Ages 16+.

Make Your Mark March

• Date: Thursday, March 14

• Location: Library Story Hour Room

Celebrate National Children’s Craft Day with various crafts at the library.

From 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., a special craft for kids under 5, and from 4 to 5 p.m., special crafts for children 5+.

Book Group: Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher

Registration Period: Open Now

• Date: Wednesday, March 20

• Time: 5:30 to 7 p.m.

• Location: Library Conference Room

• Explore the dark fairy tale of “Nettle & Bone” by T. Kingfisher. Follow Marra’s journey to save her sister from an abusive royal husband. Registration required for each participant.

Crafting with Adults: Pom

Pom Earrings

Registration Period: March 15-23

• Date: Wednesday, March 27

• Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

• Location: Library Conference Room

Design your own pair of pom pom earrings with jewelry designer Edith Schneider. Limited space available. Registration required. Ages 16+.

Children’s Story Times

• Mondays, 2:30 p.m.:

Animal Tales with Miss Frances (Grades K-5)

Tuesdays, 4 p.m.: Cuentos y Crafts with Cristal (Bilingual, Grades K-5)

• Wednesdays, 10 a.m.:

Preschool Story Time with Miss Melissa (Ages 4-6)

• Thursdays, 9:30 and 10 a.m.: Baby Story Time with Miss Carrie (Ages 0-18 months)

• Fridays, 10 and 11 a.m.:

Toddler Story Time with Miss Cappy (Ages 2-3)

CONTACT INFO

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

CONTACT INFO

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

LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero

AWARENESS - PREVENTION - INTERVENTION - EDUCATION

About: The Atascadero Greyhound Foundation has been serving the Atascadero community for more than 20 years, gradually adding more events that serve its mission. We have grown, and continue to give because of the generous donors, sponsors and participants of our events. Our events are a benefit to the community in healthy activity — either athletically, musically, educationally, or in the fight against addiction.

Donations: Our support comes from generous donors and sponsors. To make a difference, visit: lighthouseatascadero.org

Friends of the Paso Robles Library

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Support the Library through a Friends of the Library membership, starting as low as $10/year. The Friends of the Library appreciates donations, which are either added to the Library’s collection or used to generate considerable funds toward the purchase of new books, library materials, programs, services, etc. Support the Library in a 100% volunteer-run retail environment. We are seeking volunteers to assist with Gift Shop sales, book donation sorting, and to provide book sale support. Due to limited storage space and staff, we are only able to accept two boxes or two bags of materials per household per day.

Cash donations always welcome!

BOARD MEETINGS:

Call 805-237-3870 for info

CONTACT INFO

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

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

For information about making donations, adoptions, etc, visit redwingshorsesanctuary.com.

For upcoming events, visit facebook.com/pg/redwingshorses/events

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Redwings is always looking for volunteers to help us provide the highest standard of care for our horses and burros. You do not need to have any prior horse experience to volunteer at Redwings. If you would like to work with our horses, the first step is to take a Volunteer Training Class. This class covers sanctuary rules, basic safe horsemanship skills, and an introduction to some of the horses that you will be working with. After completion of the class you are welcome to come volunteer and help with the horses any time during our volunteer hours. Volunteer hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 8am to 3:30pm, and we are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Note: We do not allow volunteers to ride the horses at Redwings. There are other ways to get involved and volunteer at Redwings too. We have opportunities to help in our rose and memorial garden, volunteering in the office, helping with events and fundraising, and more. Please submit the form below to schedule a volunteer training or contact our office: info@redwingshorsesanctuary.org or (805) 237-3751.

Atascadero Elks Lodge

CONTACT INFO

1516 El Camino Real,  Atascadero, Ca 93422 805-466-3557 www.elks2733.org

local sports teams, programs for handicapped and needy children, patriotic programs, veterans’ programs and many, many community activities. Our mission as Elks is to inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize our belief in God; to promote the welfare of our community; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; and to cultivate good fellowship. We have a full calendar of events and activities for our members. To learn more or to join us please contact us at 805-4663557, visit the Lodge at 1516 El Camino Real, follow-us on Facebook or visit our website at: www.elks2733.org.

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

ATASCADERO GOSPEL CHAPEL

8205 Curbaril Ave. (corner of Curbaril & Atascadero Ave.): Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. Ted Mort, Pastor. (805) 466-0175. atascaderogospelchapel.org

Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living

A New Thought Spiritual Community. Living the Consciously Awakened Life. Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue Sunday 10:00am at the Pavilion 9315 Pismo Way, Atascadero (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.org

St. William’s Catholic Church 6410 Santa Lucia Road, Atascadero, CA (805) 466-0849 www. stwilliams.org Weekday Masses : 10:30 AM Saturday Vigil Mass: 4:30 PM Sunday Masses: 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM Spanish

FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH

9925 Morro Road, Atascadero; "The Church on the Hill"; An independent church committed to the teaching of God's Word.; Praise and Prayer–10 a.m.; Morning Worship–11 a.m.; Evening Worship–6 p.m.; Wednesday Prayer–6:30 p.m.; Nursery care and children's classes provided.; Pastor Jorge Guerrero; (805) 461-9197.

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH

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

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH ELCA

A place of hope! Join us for in-person worship on Sundays at 9 A.M. Services are also streamed on our YouTube channel, Hope Lutheran Church Atascadero. We offer Sunday School for all ages after worship. Learn more at ourhopelutheran.net. 8005 San Gabriel Road, Atascadero. 805.461.0430. office@ourhopelutheran.org.

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER-LCMS

4500 El Camino Real, Atascadero; 466-9350; Morning Bible class at 9 a.m. Sunday; Coffee and Sunday Worship with Holy Communion at 10 a.m. Sunday; Thursday morning Bible class 10 a.m. followed by refreshments and fellowship; Developmentally disabled Bible class 1st and 3rd Saturday mornings; redeemeratascadero.org; redeemeratascadero@gmail.com; Pastor Wayne Riddering.

PLYMOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UCC

We honor ancient scriptures, responding to God’s contemporary call to be just and kind.; Join us for Worship Sunday, 10 a.m.; Church School Sunday, 10:15 a.m.; Coffee Fellowship 11 a.m.; Men’s Bible Study, Wednesday, 8 a.m.; Women’s Bible Study, Friday, 10 a.m.; Youth Group; 1301 Oak St., Paso Robles; (805) 238-3321.

ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH

940 Creston Road, Paso Robles; has Sunday worship services at 9:30 a.m; For more information, call the church at (805) 238-3702. Ext. 206.

ATASCADERO FOURSQUARE CHURCH–FATHER’S HOUSE

2100 Ramona Road. Sunday service at 10am. Will & Lori Barrow, Pastors; (805) 466-3191; fathershouseafc.com

ABIDE CALVARY ATASCADERO

4500 El Camino Ave (Downstairs, Rear Parking Lot) // info@ abideatascadero.org. Sunday Service at 9am, Children’s Ministry provided for ages 2yrs–6th grade. Pastors Chris Vanoli & Ben Eisenman // Love God, Love Others // Abiding closely with Jesus and teaching others to do the same.

THE REVIVAL CENTER

A division of Alpha Beth Ministries; 3850 Ramada Drive (corner of Ramada and Cow Meadow), Paso Robles; 805-434-5170; Pastor Gabe Abdelaziz; a charismatic non-denominational fellowship; Reaching People, Building Homes; Sundays 10am, Wednesday 7pm; alphabeth@tcsn.net, www.alphabeth.org; Instagram @the_ revival_center

Be included in the Atascadero News & Paso Robles Press Worship Directory for an entire year at $175

On Saturday, March 23, a very special performance is coming to the Spanos Theater at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. “EPIC 24 Emerging Performers in Concert” will be presented by the North County Dance and Performing Arts Foundation and will be having its world premiere at 7 pm on the 23rd. The event is a benefit for iDance4aCURE, a national organization that raises funds for pediatric cancer and brain tumor research in children.

Doriana Sanchez, a wellknown, professional choreographer and resident of Atascadero, will co-direct and choreograph the event. For more information regarding tickets, visit ncdpaf. org. or pacslo.org/events/detail/ epic24. Visit iDance4aCure.org to learn more about the work of the organization.

Like pizza? Want to support a local organization that seeks

lee pitts COLUMNIST

Idon’t know why Butcherknife Bill changed his name to Sourdough Sam. Maybe someone hung the moniker on him because of his reputation for delicious biscuits. Or perhaps because he remained unmarried, the word “sourdough” was synonymous in the West with the word “bachelor.” I can however guess why Sourdough Sam never found a bride. Because he snores like a choked bull.

The reason I know about Sam’s sleeping habits is because I went on a trail drive with him and a bunch of wannabe cowboys for three days and three nights. The key word here being “nights.” As we unrolled our bedrolls on the first night Darrell remarked, “Ah, you will never get constipation if you sleep

Italk a great deal about transformation. Change is an absolute necessity for all living things. If any being is not changing or growing, it is dead. (Mind you, I am not talking about evolution.) Every living thing has a birth and a death, but what we don’t pay enough intentional attention to is the time between birth and death.

I am wanting you to focus on deliberate change or transformation. I have often gone to a cemetery and seen on each tombstone a birth date and a death date, but there is also a

Irish potatoes and wit

to help women reach for the stars through education, by offering local, state and national scholarships? If your answer is “yes,” come and enjoy Mountain Mike’s Pizza from March 17 to 23. Mention P.E.O. when you order, and 30 percent will be donated to Atascadero P.E.O. Chapter VF to benefit its scholarship fund for women.

Mountain Mike’s Pizza is located at 9006 West Front Road, Atascadero, and is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For questions about the event, contact Ann Little at (805) 466-3119.

P.E.O.’s (Philanthropic, Educational, Organization) mission is to “celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans and stewardship of Cottey College; and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations.”

For more information about P.E.O., contact Linda Smith, Chapter VF President, at (217) 851-9086.

With St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, I thought the recipe for this week should at least sound a bit Irish. I’m not quite

sure about the title, but it does sound “a bit Irish.”

Double Lucky Irish Potatoes

Ingredients:

10 to 15 small red potatoes

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced

• 1/4 cup yellow bell pepper, finely diced

2/3 cup onion, chopped

1 1/2 cups shredded Colby cheese (save 1/2 cup)

2 tablespoons milk

• 2 tablespoons sour cream

• 5 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1 teaspoon salt and pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

Directions:

Pierce potatoes with a fork. Place on baking sheet and bake in preheated 400 degree oven until tender, about 45 minutes. Melt butter and add peppers and onion (may also use a finely minced clove of garlic). Sauté about 5 minutes and add cooked, crumbled bacon. Cool potatoes slightly. Slice tops off and scoop out the potatoes, reserving skins for the shells. Mash the potatoes with 1 cup of cheese, milk, sour cream, and vegetable mixture. Spoon mixture into shells. Sprin -

Ear biscuits

on the ground.”

“You won’t get any sleep either,” a veteran camper replied prophetically.

After just 10 minutes of Sourdough Sam’s snoring, wheezing and whistling Darrel’s response was, “It’s not exactly what you would call ‘melodious’ is it?”

After one snoring fit that consisted of three violent staccato outbursts followed by several seconds of silence one trail driver made the hopeful comment ...“Maybe he killed himself.”

But we had no such luck. Suffice it to say, we were not lulled to sleep by the howl of a coyote. Sam’s snoring even scared them away. And so the sleepless companions considered the options. “I remember seeing an advertisement in the Sharper Image catalog,” said one of the city dudes, “for a device that sent an electrical impulse to the snorer’s brain whenever he or she uttered a peep. I considered getting one for my wife.”

That remark sent us looking for a hot shot. But, as usual,

the batteries were dead.

Another trail driver suggested, “Maybe we should just roll Sam over on his side. Perhaps he only snores on his back.” Much to our chagrin, we discovered that Sam even snored, his lip hobbled, and he was hanging upside down with a bandana in his mouth.

“Let’s just asphyxiate him with his own pillow,” suggested one exasperated insomniac. “No one will ever know.” But instead, one by one we just moved farther away from the source of “earitation.” Without the warmth of the fire, using only our backs for a blanket, we arose the next morning with icicles hanging from our lower lips. Not having slept a wink I asked the other men, “How’d you get along?”

“It was so dark I couldn’t see that I threw my bedroll on a hill of red ants,” said one.

“That’s better than laying on a fresh cow pie like I did,” replied another.

Looking at a bruised and battered Darrel I asked, “What happened to you?”

Transformation

dash in between. God creates the birth date, God creates the death date, but YOU fill in the dash. How have you lived or determined to live your life so far?

Life is like a novel. You may write yourself a tragedy, a comedy, or a mystery. You are the writer of that dash. Everything in life has a beginning and an end. You will allow the passing of time to either develop you or destroy you. You can drown in your past failures and misfortunes or be catapulted into your amazing future. It is up to you. What stands before you right now is life. Life is what you design it to be. It may look tragic and disconcerting, but God can take a shattered life and turn it into a beautiful mosaic. You and your life are, or can be, a work of art, a masterpiece of

a divine design.

Transformation is a product of choice. The Bible tells us in Joshua 24:15, “Choose you this day whom you will serve.” As Moses was coming to the end of his ministry, he counsels his people in Deuteronomy 30:19, “I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.” He encouraged his people to choose life. Just in case they didn’t know which to choose, he told them. CHOOSE LIFE. There are only those two choices, life or death. It is time for us to make the right choice. It is the inner man that will choose for us. The outer man will follow the choices made by the inner man. We can

kle potatoes with remaining cheese and paprika, salt and pepper. Place on baking sheet and bake until cheese melts, about 15 minutes. Serves 6 to 8

Note:

Can be prepared ahead of time except for last baking. Can substitute sweet potatoes or large Russets and serve as a side dish with main course. Use green bell pepper on St. Patrick’s Day!

I’ve been reading a little book titled “Words from a Fearless Heart: A Collection of the Wit, wisdom, and Whimsy of Laura Ingalls Wilder,” edited by Stephen W. Hines. I will end on this note from Laura:

“To know that I have helped someone a little or made a day brighter will make my own work easier and cause the sun to shine on the dark days, for we all have them. ‘Tis then a little place of sunshine in the heart helps mightily. And there is nothing that puts so much brightness there as having helped someone else.” Have a great weekend. Cheers!

Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at bbutz1@outlook.com

“I got away as far as I could but I ended up in a cow stomp and got trampled by a stampede.” Caused no doubt by the thunderous snores emanating from camp.

Despite our pathetic condition no one complained to Sourdough Sam about his snoring because, you see, he was our camp cook. A cowboy never packs a lunch so he is totally dependent on the cook for sustenance. One complaint to the cook and you could starve to death on a trail drive. So nobody uttered a word.

On the second night of the trail drive when Sourdough started his incessant snoring we all ran to the chuck wagon to find something we could stuff in our ears. And on the third night we finally got some shut eye. That was because our cook laid in his bedroll with one eye peeled on his chuck wagon all night, attempting to discover who stole his sourdough mix the night before.

Lee Pitts is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at leepitts@leepittsbooks.com.

walk outside and see nothing but garbage cans, or we can look and see the beauty of God’s creation. Apostle Paul writes in Romans 12, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Change the way you think, and you will change your vision and perception of yourself and your life. The phrase “as a man thinks, so is he” comes from the King James Version of Proverbs 23 which says: “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.” I love the phrase that says, “it came to pass.” You need to know that where you are has come to pass. It has not come to stay. Focus on the power of transformation. Pastor Gabe Abdelaziz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email him at alphabeth@tcsn.net

barbie butz COLUMNIST

pastor gabe abdelaziz COLUMNIST

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GOT AN UNWANTED CAR???

Your car donation to Patriotic Hearts helps veterans find work or start their own business. Fast free pick. Running or not! Call 24/7: 1- 877-529-0495. (CalSCAN)

Tiene un vehiculo no deseado? Donelo a Patriotic Hearts! Recogida rápida y gratuita en los 50 estados. Patriotic Hearts ofrece programas para ayudar a los veteranos a encontrar trabajo o iniciar su propio negocio. Llama ahora: 1-844- 244-5441 (24/7) (Cal-SCAN)

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Old Porsche 356/911/912 for restoration by hobbyist 1948-1998 Only. Any condition. Top $ paid! PLEASE

Week of March 7 - 13

Baseball

3/8 | 3:30 pm | Exeter (V)

3/9 | 12 pm | Cabrillo (JV/V)

3/12 | 3:30 / 6 pm | Atascadero (JV/V)

Boys Golf

3/7 | TBD

3/13 | TBD | Mission Prep

Boys Tennis

3/7 | 3 / 3:30 pm | Cabrillo (JV/V)

3/12 | 3 / 3:30 pm | Paso Robles / Nipomo (JV/V)

Boys Volleyball

3/7 | 5 / 6 pm | Atascadero (JV/V)

3/9 | TBA | Cabrillo Tourney (V)

3/12 | 4 pm | Paso Robles (JV)

Softball

3/8 | 4:30 pm | Nipomo (V)

3/12 | 4:30 pm | Righetti (JV/V)

Swim 3/8 | 3 pm | Morro Bay

Track 3/9 | TBA | Spring Classic

For full details on games, locations, etc. please visit: templetonhs.schoolloop.com/Athletics

Baseball

3/8 | 3:30 / 5 pm | Paso Robles (JV/V)

3/9 | 10 am / 1 pm | Morro Bay (JV/V)

3/12 | 3:30 / 6 pm | Templeton (JV/V)

Boys Golf

3/11 | TBA | Lompoc Mini

Boys Tennis

3/7 | 3:30 pm | Nipomo

3/12 | 3:30 pm | Morro Bay

Boys Volleyball 3/7 | 5 / 6 pm | Morro Bay

(JV/V)

3/9 | 9 am | Orcutt Academy (JV)

3/9 | 8 am | Orcutt Academy (V)

3/13 | 5 pm | Orcutt Academy (V)

Softball

3/8 | 3:30 pm | King City (JV/V)

3/12 | 4:30 pm | Pioneer Valley (JV/V)

Stunt 3/13 | 6 pm | Nipomo

Swim 3/8 | 3 pm | Santa Ynez (JV/V)

3/9 | 9 am | Fresh/Soph Invite

Track 3/9 | 8:30 am | AG/SLOl

For full details on games, locations, etc. please visit: atascaderousd.cyberschool.com/AHS/Department/32-Athletics

Baseball 3/8 | 3:30 / 5 pm | Atascadero (JV/V)

3/12 | 5 pm | Mission Prep (JV)

3/13 | 5 pm | Arroyo Grande (FR)

Boys Golf | 12 pm | Templeton (V)

3/11 | 12 pm | Cabrillo (V)

3/12 | 3 pm | Arroyo Grande (JV)

Boys Tennis

3/7 | 3:30 pm | Orcutt (V)

3/11 | 3:30 pm | SLO (V)

3/12 | 4 pm | Templeton (JV)

Boys Volleyball 3/12 | 5 / 6 pm | Righetti (JV/V)

Softball

3/7 | 3:30 pm | Santa Ynez (V)

3/9 | 11 am | Selma (V)

3/12 | 4:30 pm | Nipomo

EACH WEEK, A LOCAL STUDENT ATHLETE IS CHOSEN BY COACHES OR THE ATASCADERO NEWS/ PASO ROBLES PRESS SPORTS STAFF FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE.

HAVE AN AOW NOMINATION? LET US KNOW! EMAIL OFFICE@13STARSMEDIA.COM

Taylor shows up every day with a positive attitude, ready to work and learn new skills ... In addition to the focus on her own skills, Taylor makes a point to celebrate and cheer on the successes of others on her team.

- Coach April Schaefer

For full details on games, locations, etc. please visit: pasoschools.org/domain/543

Welcome to the highly-anticipated unveiling of the 2024 Best of North SLO County Readers Poll champions! After weeks of voting and receiving thousands of submissions, we are thrilled to present the winners in this special edition of Paso Robles Magazine and Atascadero News Magazine's annual Best Of issue.

Our readers' poll covers a wide range of categories, from top-notch restaurants and wineries to outstanding eyewear, overall businesses, beauty, health, wellness, shopping, retail, home construction, and automotive care. Your voices resonated strongly in each category, expressing appreciation for the businesses and individuals who contribute to North SLO County's unique charm.

The winner's list encompasses not only the outright winners but also those who were highly competitive. This includes many businesses submitted, as well as categories with close calls in votes, ties, and those who simply excelled and outperformed their

competition, resulting in a "blowout!"

Our readers' poll stands as a tribute to the indispensable role that local hometown businesses play as the backbone of our community and economy. We honor their invaluable contributions to our collective well-being.

We are proud to recognize all the winners, chosen by the people who know North SLO County best — you, its residents, and visitors. We hope that the results of the poll will help you discover new favorite places or reaffirm your love for long-time local treasures.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all our readers for dedicating time to vote for your favorites. It is through your recognition that these businesses continue to thrive. So here is this year's 2024 Best of North SLO County winners list, chosen by you, our readers, friends, and supporters. From Bradley to Santa Margarita, we congratulate this year's champions!

COMMUNITY SERVICE, CHARITY & NONPROFITS

BEST CHARITY OR NONPROFIT

El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO)

BEST CHARITY EVENT

Empty Bowls by El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO)

BEST COMMUNITY SERVICE GROUP

Kiwanis Atascadero

BEST YOUTH CHARITY

Paso Robles Youth Arts Foundation

BEST PARADE

Templeton 4th of July Parade

BEST CHARITY OR NONPROFIT PROJECT UNDER DEVELOPMENT

The Printery Foundation and El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO)

BANKING, FINANCE & REAL ESTATE

BEST MORTGAGE OR HOME LOANS Colony Mortgage, Inc

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

Courtney Morrow, State Farm

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Jaime Silveira at Malik Real Estate Group

BEST REAL ESTATE GROUP Malik Real Estate Group

BEST TAX PREP OR CPA

Nicholas Medeiros, CPA, PC

BEST BANK OR CREDIT UNION SESLOC

BEST BOOKKEEPING SERVICE

Tidwell Bookkeeping Services

PETS & ANIMALS

BEST FEED STORE

Atascadero Hay & Feed

BEST PET GROOMING & CARE

Dirty Doxie Dog Grooming

BEST PET SUPPLY STORE Lemos Feed & Pet Supply

BEST VETERINARIAN OR PET HOSPITAL Main Street Small Animal Hospital

AMUSEMENTS, ENTERTAINMENT FOR FAMILY

BEST AMUSEMENT OR GAMES

Andy’s Awesome Arcade

BEST PARK PLAYGROUND

Atascadero Lake Park

BEST GOLF COURSE

Chalk Mountain Golf Course

BEST BOUNCE HOUSE OR PARTY SUPPLY

Hops Bounce House

BEST U12 KIDS ENTERTAINMENT

Hops Bounce House

BEST PLACE FOR A GIRL’S NIGHT OUT

Cielo Italian Ristorante & Rooftop Bar

BEST PLACE FOR

BEST

BEST

BEST

BEST CATERING

Trattoria di Luca

BEST SPECIALTY PIZZA

Calabrian at Trattoria di Luca

BEST CHEESE SHOP

Vivant Fine Cheese

BEST SALAD

Western Salad at Guest House Grill

BEST VEGETARIAN OR VEGAN Ziggy’s

WINE, BEER, SPIRITS & VINEYARDS

BEST BREWERY

BarrelHouse Brewing Co.

BEST LOCAL SPIRIT

Bourbon by Central Coast Distillery

BEST WHITE WINE

Chenin Blanc by Zanoli

BEST WINERY EXPERIENCE

DAOU Winery and Vina Robles Vineyards & Winery

BEST BEER

German Pilsner by Colony Mash and 805 by Firestone Walker

BEST VINEYARD EXPERIENCE Halter Ranch Vineyard

BEST DOWNTOWN TASTING ROOM Kula Vineyards & Winery

BEST RED WINE

Pinot Noir at Jack Creek Cellars

BEST SPARKLING WINE

Pinot Noir sparkling at Rava Winery

BEST COCKTAIL

Raspberry Lemon Drop at Street Side Ale House

BEST WINERY EVENT VENUE Rava Wines

BEST VINEYARD TASTING ROOM Vina Robles and Rava Winery

BEST BAR, TAVERN, PUB, OR TAP HOUSE

Ancient Owl Beer Garden & Bottle Shoppe

HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY

BEST NAIL SALON

Calvin’s Nail Salon on Main Street in Templeton

BEST SURGICAL AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dr. Jeremy Lansford of Lansford Dental

BEST ORTHODONTIST

Dr. Jason Pambrun of Pambrun Bracing

BEST WOMEN’S HAIR SALON

Haven Blue Salon

BEST HEARING AID SPECIALIST

Hearing Aid Specialist of the Central Coast

BEST GYM

Kennedy Club Fitness

BEST CHIROPRACTOR McGaughey Chiropractic

BEST TATTOO STUDIO Pioneer Tattoo Company

BEST OPTOMETRIST AND EYE CARE Primary Eye Care Atascadero

BEST DAY SPA River Oaks Hot Springs Spa

BEST HOLISTIC HEALTHCARE Salus Integrative Medicine

BEST EYEWEAR AND GLASSES Specs by Kyla

BEST MEN’S BARBER SHOP The Barber Shop, Atascadero

BEST URGENT CARE OR CLINIC Urgent Care of Atascadero

SHOPPING & RETAIL

BEST BOARD SHOP 805 Board Shop

BEST SURF, SKATE, OR STREETWEAR 805 Board Shop

BEST DINNER OR DRESS ATTIRE

Ambiance Clothing & Lifestyle Boutique

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Anna & Company

BEST CASUAL ATTIRE

Anna & Company

BEST KID’S CLOTHING

Anna & Company

BEST HOME DECOR Atrium Mercantile

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING Bloke Outfitters

BEST FLOWERS & FLORIST

Bloom N Grow Floral Design

BEST BOOKSTORE Book Odyssey

BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE

Ernest Grace

BEST FASHION

Ernest Grace

BEST HEALTH FOOD & SUPPLEMENTS Natural Alternative

BEST THRIFT STORE

North County Christian Thrift Store

BEST GIFT SHOP

Perry’s Parcel

BEST EYEWEAR

Specs by Kyla

BEST OVERALL SHOPPING & RETAIL

The General Store Paso Robles

BEST ANTIQUES

Vineyard Antique Mall

HOME, CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING

BEST GLASS COMPANY A-1 Glass

BEST FURNITURE

Atrium Mercantile

BEST PLUMBING

Bell’s Plumbing

BEST MOVING COMPANY

Central Coast Moving & Storage

BEST STORAGE COMPANY

Central Coast Moving & Storage

BEST PROPANE SUPPLIER Delta Liquid Energy

BEST RAIN GUTTERS

Five Star Rain Gutters

BEST ELECTRICIAN

Live Oak Electric/French Electric

BEST PAVING, CONCRETE, AND DRIVEWAYS

Michael Frederick Paving Co

BEST ROOFING

Mid State Roofing

BEST BACKYARD DESIGN AND BUILD

Native Landscape Creations

BEST LANDSCAPING, LAWN, AND GARDEN

Native Landscape Creations

BEST COMMERCIAL OR RESIDENTIAL CLEANING SERVICE

Pristine Cleaning

BEST SOLAR Solarponics

BEST PEST AND RODENT CONTROL

Story Termite and Pest Control

BEST FLOORING

Templeton Flooring

BEST CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING MATERIALS Weyrick Lumber

BEST BODY SHOP

Davis Body Shop, established in 1962 by Dave and JoAnn Davis, has been a cornerstone of the Atascadero community for over six decades.

Growing up immersed in the business, their son Brad Davis jokingly recalls starting “sweeping the floor in his diapers.” As he progressed, Brad started in administration of the company in 1981. This family-oriented dedication and hands-on involvement have been instrumental in the company’s success.

With a commitment to quality as its guiding principle, Davis Body Shop has consistently delivered exceptional service, earning them the distinction of repairing more automobiles than any other body shop in San Luis Obispo County. Their mission revolves around prioritizing customer satisfaction while providing a supportive work environment for their employees. Over the years, Davis Body Shop has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple “Best Of” awards, reflecting their dedication to excellence. Their growth trajectory, marked by the establishment of a second location in Paso Robles in 1989, underscores their commitment to expansion and innovation.

Embracing technological advancements early on, Davis Body Shop was one of the pioneers in integrating computers into their operations, streamlining processes, and enhancing efficiency. Their participation in industry peer groups, such as the Coyote Vision Group, demonstrates their proactive approach to staying abreast of emerging trends and challenges.

Community engagement lies at the heart of Davis Body Shop’s ethos, with active involvement in youth sports, charitable endeavors, and longstanding membership in the Chamber of Commerce. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as supply chain disruptions and labor shortages, the company remains resilient, exploring new avenues to enhance performance and competitiveness while nurturing the next generation of industry professionals.

Looking ahead, Davis Body Shop recognizes the ongoing need for skilled technicians and remains committed to fostering talent within the community. As they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive repair industry, their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction remains unwavering, ensuring that Davis Body Shop continues to be a trusted name in Atascadero and beyond.