Central Coast Journal • #11 • October 2022

The Family Friendly Workplaces Program is a par tnership among First 5 San Luis Obispo Count y, the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce and the Count y of San Luis Obispo This FREE initiative, housed within the Chamber, aims to help businesses hire and retain employees, suppor t working parents’ balance bet ween job and home life, and bolster the economic vitalit y of our communities. The program builds on the SLO Count y Family Friendly Workplace Toolkit which was created by the “ We Are the Care” Initiative a count y wide coalition dedicated to addressing local child care and related work life balance challenges faced by local families Family-Fr iendly Focus

OCTOBER HERO: Carmel & Naccasha LLP

What would you do with a few ex tra hours of free time in your weekly schedule? This summer, Carmel & Naccasha LLP gave its employees the oppor tunit y to answer that question with the goal of helping them bet ter manage the inter face bet ween work

SLO & Paso Robles, instituted a summer long ’40 for 36’ plan where team members got paid for their regular schedule while working a 36 hour work week As many Human Resources exper ts will emphasize, it was the simple act and ar t of listening that led to the integration of this wor thwhile initiative!

While the company considered implementing a ‘9/80’ or ‘4/10’ schedule policy change, employees voted down those options not favoring a 9 to 10 hour workday The ’40 for 36’ compromise stuck! And you might say so did the resulting memories made — going to the beach, reading a book, spending time with family and pets or enjoying other simple joys The plan was so well received, it will now be of fered ever y summer Less stress means bet ter mental health & higher morale, which yields a happier work force and improved productivit y Companies across the globe are testing out this

Iceland, years of trial runs in the public sector led unions to negotiate working pat terns; now 86% of Iceland’s work force is moving toward the right to shor ter hours for the same pay, say researchers from UK think tank Autonomy Growing numbers of U S businesses are adopting similar models

According to Carmel & Naccasha Complex Litigation At torney

its employees it values work life balance but shows them Raynor says she was thank ful for the ex tra time to be with her young kids before the star t of the school year No doubt that lit tle gif t is the kind of thing many working parents want most

Action star ts with engagement, and Carmel & Naccasha LLP ser ves as a great example of how to get involved Founding Par tners Timothy Carmel & Ziyad (Z) Naccasha have been enthusiastic voices at the table for the count y wide “ We Are the Care” (WATC) Initiative Their desire to make a dif ference prompted them to help develop and later utilize the SLO Count y Family Friendly Workplace Toolkit created through WATC for area businesses (additional details top right of page) In addition to the company’s summer work schedule perk, which was coordinated by Firm Administrator Stacy Bar tlet t, Carmel & Naccasha can celebrate having several other practices in

to improve their skills and take civic leadership roles for the bet terment of communit y As Carmel & Naccasha sees it, employees are the greatest asset a company can have; positive shif ts happen when management listens to what workers want, invests in them, and prioritizes their happiness in the workplace Applause for this Family Friendly champion!

To learn more about the Family Friendly Workplace Toolkit, visit slofamily friendly work org For information on the Family Friendly Workplace Accelerator Program, contact the SLO Chamber ’s Work force Development Manager, Christina Lefevre Latner, at (805) 786 2762 or christina@slochamber org To learn more about early childhood related initiatives, go to

FROM PUBLISHERTHE

“Adopt responsibility for your own well-being, try to put your family together, try to serve your community, try to seek for eternal truth... That’s the sort of thing that can ground you in your life,

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ife is a precious gift; every day we wake up, we are given a choice on how we will face the world and connect with those we hold dear, those we come into contact with, and those we would rather avoid. How we choose to handle every encounter has a deep impact on our soul and well being. As we come into the colder months ahead, this becomes even more important because we tend to need our community more during the winter months, and in turn, others need us as well. Studies show that choosing to stay in a positive mind of thinking and offering of ourselves to our community enriches our lives and helps the community and others grow.

That is what our cover story subject Sherman Smoot lived for: the joy of giving back to his community, fellow veterans, and his family. Unfortunately, Smoot was lost too soon, but his legacy will live on (page 15).

As the leaves start to turn to gold and the chilly nights return, we are ready for pumpkin season and all that comes with it. The farms, pumpkin patches, hay rides, corn mazes, and of course, Halloween and Pumpkin Spice Lattes; even though I am not a fan of the lattes, I will partake in everything else. This month we have your guide to San Luis Obispo County’s Pumpkin Patch Farms (page 18), and of course, Mrs. Barbie Butz gives us some homemade cooking ready for “October is All for the Pumpkins” (page 20).

As we gear up for the holidays and, in a short time, the end of the year, we start to look at all the amazing stories and people we have been able to share with all of you. We would love to know which of the stories were your favorite. What stories you would like to see going forward, and what possible series would you like to see added? We truly enjoy receiving your feedback so let us know by writing us at Weeditor@centralcoastjournal.com.lovewhatwedoandenjoysharing your neighbors with you; we hope you have a wonderful October and enjoy this month’s edition of the Central Coast Journal

Hayley & Nic

if thou wouldest win immortality of either do things worth the or write things worth the

— Thomas Fuller,

This all the that Thanks to them, we are able to bring you

Human Trafficking is the Buying and Selling of People

BY IAN PARKINSON, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF

Iwant

to start my column this month with a startling fact. It’s estimated that 1 million children are trafficked for sex each year. Think about that. One million children. Quite simply, human trafficking is the buying and selling of people. It has been likened to modern day slavery. And it exists everywhere, including here in San Luis Obispo County.

The San Luis Obispo County Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force was formally established by District Attorney Dan Dow in 2014. The Sheriff’s Office has been an active partner on this task force. Over the years, there have been numerous cases reported on the Central Coast. I want to tell you about a local incident we had recently which received attention from the U.S. Department of Justice.

This summer, we had a 15-year-old girl from Arizona who was visiting family members in Nipomo. On the morning of July 1, we received a report the girl was missing. On that day, she was last seen leaving a family member’s home in the early morning hours. Our Detectives started an immediate investigation. During the course of the investigation, Sheriff’s Detectives were able to determine the identity of a suspect and a female accomplice who had befriended the victim on a social media platform for the past year. That suspect was identified as 38-year-old Daniel Navarro of Victorville who had been posing as a teenager and who had urged the 15-year-old girl to run away with him to Mexico. The female suspect was identified as 20-year-old Julie Le of Garden Grove who was accused of driving Navarro, and the 15-year-old victim, from Nipomo to a location in Tijuana, Mexico. This is a parent’s worst nightmare. As Sheriff, I can’t recall the last time the county had a child abduction case like this.

Homeland Security Agents who work in the Sheriff’s Special Op erations Unit, as well as the FBI and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, assisted with the case in helping to locate the missing girl. Sheriff’s Detectives also obtained multiple search warrants for cellphone and social media account information which aided the

investigation. Nine days later, both Navarro and Le were arrested as they entered the United States from Mexico. The next day, Mexican authorities rescued the juvenile from a residence in Tijuana, Mexico, and she was safely reunited with her family members. The U.S. De partment of Justice will be prosecuting the case in federal court on a charge of transporting a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.

I know not all cases end like this. In fact, I’d be willing to guess a majority of cases don’t end up with the child being reunited with their parents. My understanding is that the suspect, in this case, had tried to entice other teenage girls to send him sexual images as well as trying to lure them to Mexico to have a sexual relationship. I credit the successful resolution of this case to our great Detectives at the Sheriff’s Office, who are tenacious in their pursuit of people who wish harm upon others. My hope is that this girl and her family will be able to overcome this episode and move forward in their lives. And to bring awareness to the problem of human trafficking and the million reasons why we are doing everything we can to put an end to it.

DANIEL NAVARRO JULIE LE

Agriculture Depends on You: The County Crop Report

BY BRENT BURCHETT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY FARM BUREAU

You may not know it, but the viability of our agricultural economy depends in large part on you.

Your understanding of our local ag industry, your awareness of the serious issues faced by our farmers and ranchers, will ultimately dictate our survival. Yes, we appreciate you buying local food. We appreciate you slowing down when we have to move farm equipment on the road. We appreciate you understanding that farmers can sometimes be dusty and noisy neighbors.

But as we confront a host of challenges today and in the years to come — from water to labor, climate change, regulations, development pressure on farmland, market volatility, and many others — the best chance of preserving our vibrant, diverse, $2.5 billion ag economy is an informed local community.

I want to equip you with a valuable tool to understand what’s hap pening on the farms and ranches you drive past every day — the SLO County Crop Report. Search online for “SLO County Crop Report” to download the most recent (2021) Crop Report, which was released a few weeks ago by the County Department of Agriculture / Weights and

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second time in SLO County’s history, we produced over $1 billion in agricultural commodities. Understand that this is gross farm gate sales, not profit taken home by the farmer or rancher. Farm gate sales are what the farmer gets paid, so it’s the wine grapes, not the bottle of wine. If you add the processing of these commodi ties, the purchase of inputs like tractors and fertilizer, and the 13,393 people employed in agriculture, our farmers and ranchers contribute $2.5 billion each year to SLO County’s economy.

Strawberries and wine grapes together account for about half of our total local production value. Again, this is value not acreage. Changes in value from year to year reflect changes in volumes and prices. For example, we might have high yields, but prices might be down. Which commodity do you think accounts for the most acres in our county?

It’s grazing land for cattle. Beef production allows us to produce food on land that could not support crop production. Drought impacts are most visible right now on our cattle pastures, and no rain means no grass for cattle to graze. The total value of cattle in SLO County fell 8 percent in 2021. The drought also impacted dryland grain hay and barley yields, falling 26 percent year-over-year.

Coming in at number three, avocados have become a staple of SLO County agriculture. California is the top avocado-producing state in the country, and SLO County ranks fourth in California. Did you

know it takes 14 to 18 months to grow an avocado, and a single tree can produce up to 100 avocados per season?

If you don’t take away anything else from the Crop Report, I want you to note the diversity of commodities we produce. Commodities outside the top 10 list account for nearly a quarter of our total pro duction. Over 77 miscellaneous crops in the Fruit & Nut, Vegetable, and Nursery categories totaled $137 million. Why is this diversity of production important? Our diverse crop makeup, coupled with a mix of smaller and larger farms, helps us endure commodity-specific challenges to maintain a consistently strong farm economy.

At Farm Bureau, it’s our job to keep our community informed about local agriculture issues. We believe if our neighbors understand the work of farmers and ranchers, the political leaders they vote into office willWhethertoo.

or not you work in the industry, if you believe in agriculture, you should belong to Farm Bureau. Learn more at slofarmbureau.org.

Brent Burchett serves as the Executive Director of San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau. He can be reached atbburchett@slofarmbureau.org or (805)543-3654.

Motion, Second, Discussion, & Civility

SLOCOEDU BY JAMES BRESCIA, ED.D. COUNTY SUPERINTENDENTOF SCHOOLS

Over the past two years, because of the pandemic, I attended most local school board meetings virtually and observed lo cal governance in action. Like the rest of the state, San Luis Obispo County experienced a much higher participation rate because of the virtual access to meetings. After returning to in-person meetings, some San Luis Obispo County School districts and charters continue offering a hybrid option for remote participation. Several districts throughout the state have made formal resolutions to continue the hybrid practice. The County Board of Education is holding in-person meetings with an option for the public to participate virtually. Because County Board meetings are primarily appellate, many participants are from across the county. The remote option for County Board meet ings was available before the pandemic but was rarely implemented. Regardless of the type of access, the public must remain engaged in local government.

A few years ago, I mentioned to a friend that an upcoming lo cal board meeting required my attendance, and John joked, “You mean a bored meeting, don’t you?” I said, “No, not really.” Local school board meetings are not dull, irrelevant, or wasted time. Today, more than at any time in my nearly 40-year career, I find local boards important, relevant, and crucial in navigating today’s complex issues. Locally elected school board members or “trustees” are non-partisan members of our community that ideally reflect the diversity of those they serve. According to the National School Boards Association, 44 percent of school trustees are female (more than the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate), and over 25 percent of elected school board members are from underrepre sented ethnic populations. Every school district in the country has an elected board of trustees. Approximately 95,000 school board members make up the country’s largest group of elected officials. In addition to parents, teachers, staff, and administrators, school board members support quality education provided within the communities they represent.

Most school boards convene one-to-two times per month, are open to the public, are often one of the largest employers in a city or com munity, and provide governance for the schools they represent. A subtle but significant note is that board meetings are meetings of the school board in public, not public forums. The public can become frustrated by the formality of school board meetings because of government and education code regulations. It is best to ask the school administration how to share information or comments outside the 3-minute time limit for public input. Trustees serve four-year terms staggered to prevent large vacancies from occurring all at once. A trustee must be a registered voter who is at least 18 years old, a citizen of the state they represent, live in the jurisdiction boundaries, and eligible under the state’s constitution to be elected to public office. Depending upon the school district’s size, most trustees are unpaid or receive a small stipend and possibly health insurance coverage. School districts are

complex, multimillion dollar organizations. Board members can work from 10 to 40 hours per month on school district governance matters. Governing boards oversee the needs of students, families, and budgets. Trustees also provide solid stewardship for the nation’s schools.

Highly functional school boards fill a vital role in maintaining local districts by always keeping the best interests of all students first. Boards should model civility when celebrating successes or dealing with chal lenges. Successful school boards understand that boards govern while the superintendent, district administrators, teachers, and staff manage their schools. Five critical components of effective school boards are setting a vision, advancing policy, demonstrating accountability, play ing a leadership role in the community, and forging civil consensus. The last component is often one of the most difficult to maintain in today’s media-drenched political atmosphere. The title of this article is “Motion, Second, Discussion, & Civility,” not “my way or the high way.” An effective board is secure with differing votes that reflect the community they represent. Confident boards often encourage diverse opinions while building a consensus that moves items forward with a majority vote representing the people who elected the trustees.

Experienced school board members know that true consensus is not about winners and losers. Motion, Second, Discussion asks all participants to consider and eventually affirm the key points:

1. “Are all voices heard?”

2. “Is the item understood?”

3. “Is it clear that the group’s will has emerged around the proposal?”

When a trustee makes a motion and another trustee seconds the motion, the board then discusses/listens/votes on the action. True democracy exists when civility is maintained, authentic dialogue oc curs, and a majority vote takes place. I encourage everyone reading this article to thank our locally elected trustees, attend a school board meeting, and engage in the civic process with civility. The Institute for Local Government reminds us that local officials grapple with complex issues regularly. Bringing as many perspectives on the best solution to a given problem increases the likelihood that the solution will be successful and enduring. Please get in touch with your local school district or the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education for additional information. It is an honor to serve as your County Superintendent of Schools.

“I’d be very happy serving on a local school board. I just know that I have a responsibility to give back.” — Andrew Zimmern

“Service is the rent you pay for room on this earth.” — Shirley Chisholm.

A new Exhibition at Studios on the Park

BY ANNE LADDON

As the summer heat takes a final dra matic bow on the Central Coast, the fall show, “Regroup,” at Studios on the Park is dropping jaws. This show is composed of the work of 16 local female artists whose artworks are as diverse as they are. The topic of womanhood and women’s reproductive rights is intimately discussed through the different artworks in various mediums with a wonderful mix of opinions and viewpoints.

The “Regroup” exhibition inspired artists to turn inward toward each other, to huddle to gether, to discuss how to move forward through their artwork. But it is not a ‘time out’ by any means!“Regroup”

is an exciting exhibition, offering a refreshing way to rethink and reorganize. It gives the viewer a broadened perspective and hopefully strength to push forward. Let’s Re group!Artist

Jenny Ashley’s statement about the project: “Through a series of cursive letters written on vintage stationary to her sister, the project is narrated by housewife Birdie who is on the run from the abuse and gaslighting of her partner and in search of a safe abortion at

a clinic in California. Set in the 1960s, the vin tage wardrobe, props, and sets emphasize how reversing Roe v Wade and stripping women of access to abortion sets women back decades, to a time before equal rights, reproductive rights, access to contraceptives, and the shared cul tural value of bodily autonomy. The fictional character of Birdie, whose health, stability and future are precarious mirrors the reality of many women now who have been stripped of their right to obtain an abortion and make decisions about their own bodies.

Artist Jenny Ashley’s comments about the photograph Motorlodge Mood, “You can feel the weight on Birdie’s shoulders in that mo ment — the weight of making difficult deci sions, of being on one’s own for the first time, an overwhelming weight of knowing you are the only one who can save yourself, who can get yourself out of a bad situation and start a new journey. Birdie looks to the light of the full moon, the pull of the universe, for guidance and energy; it’s as if she were consulting with the moon for answers and guidance as she carries the weight of her newfound freedom.”

the fabric so fragile that it tore and unraveled with every stitch. I tried many ways of mending and layering, appliqué and patching. The fabric began to look something like an aerial view of the Earth. The gown is narrative and the story developed. Mending the gown became a metaphor for mending and tending the Earth, mending our ways to preserve this beautiful planet we live with.”

Artist Melinda Forbes’ comments on creating her piece, “I was given the lining material of a very old antique gown. I did not realize the fabric was silk until I ice-dyed it. Pulling it out of the dye bath and drying it the sun revealed the radiance of silk. I wanted to use it but found

Artist Judy Johnson Williams comments on her piece, “The exuberance of young adulthood, we feel we can do no wrong and will survive every risk. It’s not sustainable but a great feeling while it

Studioslasts.”onthe

Park is located at 1130 Pine Street in downtown Paso Robles, and is open at noon every day.

It is a nonprofit dedicated to providing a creative, educational, and transformational experience to enhance understanding and ap preciation of the visual arts.

Learn more at studiosonthepark.org

The importance of art and culture

BY MISSY REITNER-CAMERON, SLO COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

Art and culture shape how we view the world around us. Art and culture, at their essence, present as some of the most sig nificant, compelling, and social influences of human behavior and interactivity. Together they can start conversations, create empathy, cause reflection and cultivate new ideas and unions.

While often used together, art and culture have their differences. Art is learned by paralleling others or by self-taught methods and acts as an expression of imagination, concepts, or skill. Art can be visual, performative, or expressive and can be seen in painting, performance, sculpture, and more. Culture is an umbrella term that encompasses the social behaviors and norms found in human societies, as well as the knowledge, beliefs, cus toms, and habits of the individuals in these groups.

Art has been a part of the human experience for as far back as cave paintings. Art is used to communicate ideas, pass down knowledge and ex press emotion. It is how generations share stories and beliefs with each other. Art is influential on a society and can change opinions, inspire values and create experiences across space and time. Art allows people from different cultures and eras to communicate with each other via images, sounds, stories and movement. Art is often a vehicle for social

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artists with social context to define their work. Humans acquire culture through the learning processes of enculturation and socialization, which is shown by the diversity of cultures across societies. All artworks are, to some extent, the products of their culture, and they reflect prevailing assumptions and beliefs.

The importance of art and culture in a society goes deeper than just communi cation and understanding. Surveys have shown that in the US, high school students that are exposed to art and arts of different cultures are twice as likely to volunteer and are 20 percent more like ly to vote once they reach 18. It has also been noted that communities that have arts and culture woven into the fabric of their towns attract more tourism, develop more talent and innovation and it improves the health and well-being of community members.

Recently San Luis Obispo County has had two wonderful exam ples of art and culture coming together in our community. The first is by Camille Hoffman, showing at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art and is called “See and Missed.” This work activates Camille’s own ancestry and is deeply rooted in Filipinx history in America. This work directly references the historical date of October 18, 1587, when the first Filipinos stepped foot on Chumash land and the present-day Continental United States at Morro Bay, Califor nia. They arrived as crew members aboard the Nuestra Señora de Buena Esperanza, which was a part of the Manila galleon trade under Spanish rule.

The second is a mural on the outside of SLOMA, created by Erin Leann Mitchell, and is called “Calafia was Here.” Calafia is described as the fictional queen of the island of California, first introduced by sixteenth-century poet Garci Rodríguez de Montalvo in his epic novel, Las Sergas de Esplandián (The Adventures of Esplandián). In Mon talvo’s fictional world, this island was ruled by Calafia and inhabited by her Amazon tribe. The entire piece emphasizes the often forgotten role of Black women throughout all — but specifically Californian history.

Both of these works are incredibly personal to the artists and share a commonality with our area. It is important to note that both of these installations were created by BIPOC women and that alone is a huge change in our town’s previous cultural landscape. It is a breath of fresh air to learn new histories about the town and state we are all living in. The opportunity to learn more about other cultures and their ties to our place allows growth, understanding and communication to flourish. It is a community’s responsibility to allow these different cultures to share their stories, artworks and performances and to listen, learn and grow.

“Calafia was Here”

It’s Never Too Late

BY DR. CINDY MAYNARD

read an article in the New York Times entitled “10 Insight ful Tips From People Who Prove It’s Never Too Late” by Lauren Reddy. It is about people in their 50s and even into their 80s who decided to check off an item on their Bucket List that they’ve always dreamed about and finally decided to just do it. A woman in her late 60s decided to climb El Capitan for the first time. Another person recorded his first music album at age 85. Or my personal favorite, a woman who found love in her 80s. It inspired me but got me to wondering how many of us can honestly say if we were swept off into the Big Unknown tomorrow, would be satisfied with the life we have lived or regret that somehow, we missed out?

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It’s risky to pursue our dreams or take the road less traveled, but the rewards are numerous. There is a sense of pride in accomplishment which expands our consciousness, teaches us life lessons, and feeds our spirit. We become more authentic, conscious human beings aligning ourselves with experiences that matter to us. In my career, I worked many years in psychiatric facilities as a dietitian and always wanted to get my Ph.D. in Psychology. It wasn’t until I was 62 years old that I finally obtained my doctorate, but I’ll never forget the sense of accom plishment I felt walking across the stage to get my diploma. Or consider my friend, Lori, legally blind from a stroke she had several years ago.

“I took up beading and making gifts for people. Unlike previous interests, with beading, I am able to look at something stationary and take my time. Beading gives me a sense of accomplishment. I do things differently today, but I took the challenges I had since I had the stroke and developed a new Lori, and it’s enriching.” And there’s my Los Osos friend, Marsha, who took up tap dancing again during COVID. “I’ve always loved to dance. Whenever the urge strikes me, I just put on my tap shoes and tap around the house!” Marsha has also recently immersed herself in studying no less than eight languages, including Chinese, saying, “I had to keep up with my granddaughter because I was helping her with her homework. It’s fun!”

What holds us back from pursuing our dreams or passions or ignore important experiences on our bucket list? Most of us would agree it’s much easier to stay inside our comfort zone instead of stepping outside of society’s social expectations for us. This reduces stress and anxiety. Or perhaps we are afraid of taking risks and failing. Other reasons people give are “It’s too late,” “I’m overwhelmed with responsibilities,” “Finances hinder me,” or “I’ll do it later,” but there may not be a later. These reasons may cause us to miss out on the path our heart desires or continue to lead a life that may not be fulfilling.

Unless we have a time machine, we can’t change our past, but there’s always time to change our lives or pursue our passions now. Whether your dream is kayaking among the Orcas in the Inside Passage, wine tasting in Tuscany, breeding Shetland ponies, or taking a cooking

class, it’s never too late. Start now. Figure out the steps needed to get there. Sure, we all have daily responsibilities, but the passion the experience creates deep in our psyche is worth any risk-taking. When I read about Julia “Hurricane” Hawkins, who, at 105 years old, set a new world and US record in the 100-meter race at the Louisiana Senior Games in Hammond, La. last November, I realized I have no excuse.Annette

White, creator of the travel blog Bucket List Journey (buck etlistjourney.net/about), has some tips on how we can check off those items on our bucket lists before it’s too late.

Ask what gets you excited? It might be an ex treme sport or learning a new language, or it might be as simple as taking up woodworking.

Never let fear make your decisions for you. Push yourself beyond your comfort zone.

Take one step towards your goal each day. Pret ty soon, it will become a reality.

Create a legacy. What stories do you want to tell your friends and grandchildren?

White says since she took her own advice, she’s had some of the best experiences all over the world.

Years ago, I found this quote by Hunter S. Thompson on an apron in a boutique shop in Ojai, California.

“Life’s journey is not to arrive safely at the grave in a well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting ‘Holy Cow’…. What a ride!”

We can’t change our past. But our future is there for the taking. Maybe we just need a little nudge to chase our dreams. Life is limitless. Find time to make it happen.

Remembering Legendary Aviator Sherman Smoot

BY CAMILLE DEVAUL AND CHRISTIANNA MARKS PHOTOS BY MICHAEL ENS

ShermanSmoot was an avid pilot and supporter of Honor Flight, a nonprofit which takes veterans on a Flight Tour of Honor to our nation’s memorials as a way to thank them for theirHowever,service.as

a Vietnam veteran himself, Sherman did not have the chance to take his own Tour of Honor as he lost his life in a plane accident in Kern County on September 2.

Just a week prior to his untimely death, Sherman and the Gooney Birds flew 17 local veterans around San Luis Obispo County aboard “Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber,” a restored World War II C-47 aircraft. The flight was gifted from the Gooney Birds and the Estrella Warbirds Museum to thank and honor the veterans as they await their official Honor Flight Tour to the East Coast later this year. Following the mini-tour, Sherman spoke with emotion, thanking the veterans for their service.

“A huge hole will be missing from the Paso Robles community, espe cially the museum there,” Sherman’s friend and local aviation mechanic Marc Dart shared. “He was one of the few pilots that could fly a number of those airplanes out there and teach other people how to fly those aircraft.”

Aboard Betsy were two WWII veterans, one pre-Vietnam veteran who served between Korea and Vietnam, and 14 Vietnam veterans. They came to the Estrella Warbirds Museum in Paso Robles for take-off from areas ranging from Santa Ynez to Paso Robles. All of them have been waiting their turn for an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., for their Tour of Honor. Their August flight took them on a 40-minute tour over Morro Rock and Hearst Castle.

Formed in 2005, Honor Flight is a national organization dedicated to honoring our nation’s veterans by bringing them to Washington, D.C., for a “Tour of Honor,” visiting the memorials and monuments dedicated to their service and sacrifice. Due to covid-19, many of these Honor Flights were postponed but are now back up and running.

The Honor Flight organization was originally focused on WWII vet erans, but the flights are open to any veteran of any era. Vietnam veterans now make up the most significant proportion of veterans on the flights.

President of Honor Flight on the Central Coast Bear McGill was honored to have had Sherman pilot the veterans for Honor Flight but was disheartened knowing they couldn’t give Sherman his own.

“That was an awesome tribute to those veterans,” said Bear. “And it’s even more of a tribute that ‘Sherm’ was piloting that plane.”

Bear explained that Sherman first got involved with Honor Flight when Bear and his son came up with their Vino for Vets fundraiser. Sherman

was one of the first wineries to jump on board with his winery, Bella Luna, in Templeton.

“I know Sherm was pretty excited about it,” said Bear of the August Honor Flight. “We’re very thankful that he got one more flight in that C-47. He’s definitely going to be missed by everyone. This man had a heart of gold.”

Sherman died while piloting his Yakovlev Yak-11, named “Czech Mate,” in preparation for the Reno Air Races, held yearly in Sep tember.Hewas

a consistent and familiar face at the STIHL National Championship Air Races. You could find him taking to the skies at speeds of 500 mph in the Unlimited Class, racing against, mostly, other stock or modified World War II fighters in “Czech Mate.”

Sheman Smoot (Right) and close friend Scott Stelzle (left) in the cockpit of Betty’s Biscuit Bomber, waiting for take off at the Honor Flight Central Coast Tour in August 2022.

But Sherman’s racing days and Betsy flights were just a portion of his aviation history.

Sherman was born into an aviation family in San Luis Obispo on July 29, 1948. His father pioneered the aerial pipeline patrol industry in California. Adding to his aviation destiny, he was initially raised on the original Paso Robles airport.

He then entered the aviation industry for himself in 1971 when he entered flight school in Pensacola, earning his wings the following year.

Sherman excelled as a Navy aviator, piloting F-4Js from the USS Ranger Aircraft carrier in the Tonkin Gulf. Some would say his life par alleled the likes of characters in “Top Gun” and “Top Gun: Maverick.”

After completing two cruises with VF-21 as their landing service officer (LSO), he was assigned to the indoctrination team of the Navy’s Lockheed S-3 Viking.

Leaving active duty in 1977, Sherman spent more than 30 years in commercial flying for Continential Aviation but remained in the Naval Reserves flying F-4’s for another four years. By the end of his commercial career, Sherman earned high seniority as a 777 captain.

As those close to him would say, Sherman lived life “full throttle,” and was never afraid to pursue his passions.

“Sherm was always a happy guy,” Marc said. “He pursued the things that he loved to do. Especially in aviation, he didn’t let anything stop him from achieving those goals that he wanted to accomplish and fly ... he lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed what he did and pursued his

passions.”Sherman

was also a long-time and dedicated member of the Estrella Warbirds Museum in Paso Robles and pilot and supporter for Honor

Flights.Hebecame

one of the primary pilots for the Gooney Birds’ famed “Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber.” In 2019 Sherman and fellow friend and pilot Scott Stelzle flew Betsy to Normandy for a re-enactment of D-Day to celebrate the historical day’s 75th anniversary.

“He was a wonderful man,” Bear said. “Whenever we needed any thing, Sherm was there to give us a hand on things. We greatly appre ciate all he has done for us.”

Nationally, the Honor Flight Network has taken more than 245,000 veterans to Washington, D.C., for their Tour of Honor. Each year they serve over 22,000 veterans across the country with their various services.

As of December 31, 2021, there were over 47,000 veterans awaiting their Tour of Honor. That includes 653 WWII veterans, 3,448 from the Korean War, 41,163 from the Vietnam War, and 2,408 from other various war periods.

In San Luis Obispo County alone, there are over 350 local veterans waiting to go on their Tour of Honor. And, as they stated themselves, time is unfortunately not on their side.

Scott, who flew Betsy with Sherman on numerous occasions — in cluding their last Honor Flight — told us about a conversation he had with Sherman after a rather “hairy” situation while flying.

Sherman told him, “Someday we’re going to get too old to do this ... I want to die with my flight suit on, and I want to die with my boots on.”

And because of that, Scott wants people to know, “He [Sherman] has no regret that he lived every day and died doing what he loved.”

The next Honor Flight will be October 24-26 and will be the last one of the year. For more information on Honor Flight, visit honorflightccc.org

The Smoot/Zanoli family released a statement to the Central Coast Journal regarding the loss of Sherman Smoot:

Sherman had an incredible impact on the community here in North County with his work at the Estrella Warbirds Museum and as an owner of Bella Luna Estate Winery, and an even broader impact as an aviator — a navy fighter pilot, airline pilot, and a race pilot at the Reno Air Races.

But, for us, his family, his impact extends beyond measure. We cherish the more personal side of Captain Smoot, from his love of dancing and singing at nearly every family party, the joy he had in bringing people together at the table over good food and wine, and his belly laugh and warm hugs. We know that, as fearless as he was, he would want everyone to have the most fun and squeeze everything out of life.

So for him, we live boldly, and though we miss him here on the ground, we know he is in the skies, where he always loved to be.

The family has asked, in lieu of flowers or gifts, to please donate in Smoot’s name to Estrella Warbirds Museum. In the memo, add “Youth Aviation Scholarship” or “Gooneybird Group Incorporated.”

BY BLAKE ASHLEY FRINO-GERL ILLUSTRATION BY EVAN RODDA

We are entering the fall season now, where the word “pumpkin” is popping up everywhere, especially in food and drinks. But we can not forget where the true pumpkin lies — in a patch on a farm! In San Luis Obispo County, we are fortunate that there are many pumpkin patches for us to purchase that special pumpkin(s). Whether you want to go to North or South County or want a pumpkin patch with additional activities surrounding the picking-out fun, there is a patch for you.

North County

Some pumpkin patches offer more than just pumpkins. River K in Paso Robles is a fam ily-owned and operated business by the Kunze family, and they have been growing pumpkins for 25 years. They also have a fun three-acre corn maze to meander through and weekend hay rides for an added fee, according to Zak Kunze.

Customers are also given clippers to pick and cut their pumpkins. The patch is open October 1 through 31, and during the week, the hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on the weekends from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Jack Creek Farms in Templeton is a fifth generation-run farm. It is open year-round, selling produce and honey, and offers what they deem a pumpkin palooza centering around pumpkin crafts and activ ities for families to enjoy.

Kids can enjoy playing with their wooden train and haystack. Their farm also features Happy Acres (paid entrance fee required). Families and children will enjoy their fort polliwog maze, tractor tire garden, farm animals, farmer’s market, corn bin, sand trough, storybook trail, laundry adventure, little buckaroo cafe, and more.

Jack Creek visitors can even get a Pumpkin Palooza “to go” kit, which is available September 16 and while supplies last. The kit includes one small pumpkin, one apron, one table cover, six acrylic paint cups, one paint brush, one paint tray, one cup for in-between paintbrush rinsing, one glue stick, and one bag of decorations. The Jack Creek Farms is open most days, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Chesebrough Farms in Templeton, founded by Bob and Don na, has been running a seasonal pumpkin patch for over 20 years. The patch is open October 1 through 31 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and specializes in growing fresh pumpkins, squash, and corn, but also offers other fresh vegetables in season. There are plenty of photo opportunities on the farm, including at their old-fashioned roadside stand, com plete with their “Pumpkin and Winter Squash Cookbook.” Also, for an additional cost, you can make an early request to artist Donna to scar a pumpkin for you next year — something she is wknown for around town!

South County

Brookshire Farms in Los Osos is a seasonal pumpkin patch and Christmas tree farm owned by Shawn and Gretchen Callaway.

Beginning October 1, besides having a pump kin patch, they have many activities to engage in, including a jump pillow and jump pad, 9-hole frisbee disc course, a mining town area, corn, and pumpkin cannons, peddle cart race track, and novelty places for photo opportuni ties such as a 3-D barn. Families can partake in the 1.5-acre corn maze that has a geometric “space design with circles and straight lines,” according to Shawn.

For a challenge, you can try to get through the maze at night on the last two weekends in October. Shawn also says they are going to have newly born baby goats and a llama and food items for sale, too. They are open for produce and pumpkins only, Monday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., open for activities Tuesday through Friday noon to 6 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

In between San Luis Obispo and Los Osos, you will find Sunny Acres pumpkin patch, which is a farm that supports clean and sober living. Open in September, most days from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., they are using a new field with a variety of seeds, so there will be a diverse crop of pumpkins.

A vila Valley Barn in San Luis Obispo, is an old favorite, too. Open year-round by first-generation farmers, Bruce and Deb bie raised their seven kids on the Avila Farm while working the farm each season. There is much to do at the farm — a corn maze to go through, farm animals to feed, and hay rides from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is also a large selection of baked goods and produce to buy, including tasty grilled corn.

T he Pumpkin Patch, which lies within Edna Valley of San Luis Obispo, has been embraced by five generations. The family grows the pumpkins, and people can come and pick their own. Open in September, they grow over 40 varieties of pumpkins, have a four-acre corn maze to explore, fresh produce to purchase, early season pumpkin scarring, and more.

Halcyon Farms , formerly Rutiz Farms, in Arroyo Grande, has con sistently been an organic and pesticide-free family farm specializing in a variety of produce for all seasons. Each late summer, you can come to choose and scar your own green pumpkin, and once the pumpkins have turned orange, that is then when they let you know the pumpkins you scarred are ready to pick up and purchase. It is open Tuesday and Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

River K N. River RD, Paso Robles

Jack Creek Farms 5000 Highway 46 West, Templeton

Brookshire Farms Los Osos Valley RD, Los Osos

Sunny Acres Los Osos Valley RD, San Luis Obispo

Avila Valley Barn Avila Beach Dr, San Luis Obispo

The Pumpkin Patch Biddle Ranch Road, San Luis Obispo Farms The Pike, Arroyo Grande

BY BARBIE BUTZ

October is for the Pumpkins

For me, October means pumpkin time. As a child, I could hardly wait to go with my mother to pick out our pump kins for Halloween. As I grew older, pumpkins were not only orange and round but other shapes and colors. Now there are huge pumpkin patches decorated for Halloween, making the choosing of a pumpkin an even more exciting experience.

Today cookbooks and magazines offer recipes using fresh or canned pumpkin for not only pies but a variety of dishes, including cakes and stews. I find it fun to be creative and come up with ways to use pumpkins as containers for serving.

The following recipe does just that and adds to the flavor of the contents at the same time. This recipe was found in a copy of my Junior League of Pasadena cookbook titled California Heritage Continues.

Ingredients

BEEF PREPARATION

3 tablespoons oil

21⁄2 pounds beef stew meat, cut in 11 2-inch cubes

1 large onion, chopped

2 large garlic cloves, minced

2 large tomatoes, seeded and chopped

2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped

1 teaspoon salt

1⁄3 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon 1cup dried apricots

1 cup raisins

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

2 cups Beef Stock

1⁄4 cup dry sherry

1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen

Minced fresh parsley, for garnish

PUMPKIN PREPARATION

1 large pumpkin

2-3 tablespoons melted butter.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter

1 onion, chopped

11⁄2 tablespoons flour

1 tablespoon curry powder

4 cups Chicken Stock

41⁄2 teaspoons chopped crystallized ginger

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

11⁄2 cups pumpkin purée

3 tart apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

1⁄8 teaspoon cinnamon

1-2 tablespoons brown sugar

Autumn Beef in a Pumpkin

Directions

Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over medium-high heat in a 4-quart flameproof casserole. Brown the meat in batches, transferring to a bowl when brown. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan and sauté the onions and garlic until translucent. Return the meat to the pan and add remaining ingredients except for the sherry, corn, and parsley. Bring the stew to a boil, cover, and simmer over low heat for 11⁄2 hours or until the meat is tender. (Stew may be prepared to this point and frozen. Thaw and continue beginning with pumpkin preparation.)

While stew is simmering, prepare the pumpkin. Cut the top of the pumpkin off and remove the seeds and stringy membrane. Brush the inside of the pumpkin with melted butter and set aside. When meat is tender, preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Stir the sherry and corn into the stew. Carefully pour the stew into the pumpkin shell and place in a shallow baking pan. Bake uncovered, for 1 hour or until the pumpkin is tender. Remove from the oven and garnish with parsley. Serve the stew from the pumpkin, scooping out some of the pumpkin with each serving. Serves 6-8

Note: Place pumpkin on a Black tray or large plate to carry out the Halloween theme and avoid “drips” as you serve the stew. Or use a tray covered with artificial fall leaves for the same purpose.

Pumpkin Soup with Ginger

Directions

Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Sauté the onions until soft. Add flour and curry powder, and cook for 2 minutes. Slowly add 2 cups of the Chicken Stock, stirring constantly. Blend in the ginger, lemon juice, pumpkin purée, apples, and cinnamon. Simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Purée in small batches in blender or food processor. Return to saucepan and slowly add remaining stock until desired thickness is attained. Add brown sugar to taste.

Glorious Grenache

BY MIRA HONEYCUTT

Grenache

is a temptingly delicious wine. The Rhône-style red wine is a rush of juicy fruit on the pal ate, a compote of red currants, red cher ries, and wild strawberries, nuanced with pepper, spice, and anise.

Grenache fans or “Grenachistas” gathered to taste the glories of this wine on Sep tember 16, known as the International Grenache Day, recognizing one of the most widely planted wine grape varieties in the world.

The event hosted by the Rhône Rangers organization was held at Robert Hall Winery in Paso Robles. Some 30 Rhône Ranger member wineries from Paso Ro bles, Santa Barbara County, Monterey County, Sonoma Valley, and Oregon were in attendance, all offering different expressions of this versatile grape. There was grenache blanc, grenache noir, gren ache-based blends and Rosé of grenache.

Grenache noir, popularly known as gre nache, traces its origins to Spain’s Rioja region, where it’s known as garnacha and commonly blended with tempranillo in Rioja wines. In recent years, the grenache acreage has declined and been replaced by plantings of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah, and tempranillo.

France now rules as the world’s leading producer of grenache. With 70% of the acreage in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, gren ache is a driving component of the exalted blends of this region in France’s southern Rhône region. In the Provence region, grenache produces some of the most fra grant Rosé

Meanwhile,wines.inAustralia and California, grenache is an essential grape for blending with syrah and mourvedre. With medi um body and medium tannin levels, the juicy wine sings with red fruit flavors

highlighted by bracing acids. I notice in Paso; many winemakers are now adding a splash of petite sirah to grenache for a deeper, richer wine.

Here along the Central Coast, grenache can show different characteristics: a fruity wine with bright acidity if it’s grown in SLO Coast AVA’s cooler climate or plush and rich from the warmer Paso Robles

“Whatregion.

I love about grenache is its versa tility,” said Ted Ross, owner of Hayseed and Housdon, a boutique Paso Robles

“Dependingwinery.

on terroir and winemaking technique, one can produce a grenache that is comparable to a pinot – moderately light in texture and ABV [alcohol by vol ume] with bright acidity and an interest ing combination of baking spices,” noted Ross of his Rhône Rodeo grenache, from fruit he sources from Jesperson Vineyard in the cool climate of Edna Valley.

“Grenache produces delicious wines as a single-varietal and lends generous fruit and refreshing acidity to mourvedre and syrah in blends,” noted Ian Consoli in an email exchange. Consoli, Media and Mar keting manager at Tablas Creek Vineyard, continued: “There’s plenty of acidity and a crunchy, vibrant finish. We [at Tablas Creek] love the generosity of grenache.”

The Rhône grapes are grown in its name sake region, which stretches along the Rhône River to the Mediterranean in the southern part of France. The region’s indigenous 22 varieties of grapes (red and white) known as the Rhône grapes inspire the Rhône-style wines, known as such internationally. Of the 22 varieties, syrah, grenache, and mourvedre are the most popular red grapes; and viognier, roussanne, marsanne, and grenache blanc

make up the largest white category.

In the northern part of the Rhône re gion, syrah rules. The spicy wine with a bold tannic structure is the hallmark wine from the appellations of Côte Rôtie and Hermitage. Grenache is the star in southern Rhône, supported by syrah and mourvedre in the popular GSM blends.

In California, grenache traces its history back to the 1800s in Central Valley, where it was used as a blending component in jug wines. Due to poor quality, over time, its demands declined, and grenache plant ings were replaced by cabernet sauvignon.

In the 1970s, the Rhône Rangers move ment brought attention to grenache and other Rhône-style grapes in Califor nia, making the state the epicenter of Rhône-style wines. The movement was led by Randall Grahm at his Bonny Doon Winery in Santa Cruz Mountains. He was soon joined by other like-minded Central Coast winemakers, among them Bob Lindquist, Adam Tolmach, Steve Edmund, and Sean Thackrey.

Then came the iconic Le Mistral in 1974, the first varietal syrah made by Napa Val ley’s Joseph Phelps Winery. In 1975, Gary Eberle made history with the first large commercial planting of syrah in Califor nia at Paso Roble’s Estrella River Winery.

Tablas Creek Vineyards in Paso Ro bles pushed the movement further with its Franco-American joint-venture in 1989, where Robert Haas, an American wine importer, partnered with the Per rin family of Chateau de Beaucastel in InChâteauneuf-du-Pape.thepantheonofRhône-style wines, the GSM blend leads along the Central Coast. Yet it’s grenache that’s now taking center stage.

Stunningly Rugged Vistas that Abound Throughout Point Lobos

BY CHUCK GRAHAM

Icouldsee why the 70-something-year-old gen tleman had erected his easel where he did at the overlook of idyllic China Cove located within the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve between the breathtaking Big Sur Coast and idyllic Carmel.

It was midday, and as the sun beamed down from overhead, it illuminated the tranquility of China Cove. Tucked inside the depth of the craggy, narrow natural harbor, the water was a turquoise blue. A small sandy beach was enjoyed by harbor seals, the mothers nursing their chubby pups and nuzzling them in the canopy of giant bladder kelp. The kelp forest swayed with a gentle swell that found its way to shore, lapping on the beach.

As he was deliberate with his paint strokes, the bearded artist blended his colors evenly, a rendition of China Cove anyone would be proud of. He painted beneath the shady canopy of a pine tree as southern sea otters wrapped up in the kelp below the trail, and Brandt’s cormorants busily gathered nesting material to construct their homes for their broods the next cove south of us.

Gem of the Coast

Throughout Point Lobos, there really isn’t a secluded cove, weathered beach, headland, or wave-battered cliff that isn’t scenic or doesn’t lead to an overlook revealing stunningly rugged vistas that abound throughout the reserve.

Visitors can drive slowly to many of the best views, but I would recommend walking the entire coastal route that hugs this ragged shoreline. This way, day trippers can truly absorb all the natural wonders teeming within this State Reserve. Walk slowly, bring binoculars, watch, and listen.

Point Lobos is great for birdwatching, whale watch ing, photography, and painting. There are many lo cations that will halt visitors in their tracks and force visitors to slow down and soak in its rugged beauty.

There are many things unique about Point Lo bos, but in 1960 it became the first underwater reserve in the United States. About 775 acres of submerged lands were added to the reserve to pro tect intertidal, subtidal, and all its wildlife species.

Beyond the Trees

From Pacific Coast Highway 1, it’s not a long walk from the pavement to the coast at Point Lo bos. Dense riparian corridors and forests separating the highway from the ocean block out the inces sant, perpetual roar of unruly surf hammering away at the burly bluffs and the guano-covered offshore rocky spires that surround the reserve.

Hiking into the reserve before sunup with ma rine biologist Holly Lohuis, we could easily hear the calls of a brown creeper and a hairy wood pecker over the surf thundering offshore. As we followed the serpentine path, the forest began to open up, and the sounds of the coast crept in. The roar of the surf, the bellowing of raucous Califor nia sea lions, dramatic calls of western gulls and black oystercatchers, and occasional yelps from hungry harbor seal pups carried across the craggy shoreline.Weboth

knew what time of year it was for sea birds, so we walked out to the thriving Brandt’s cormorant nesting rookery teeming with breeding pairs on their mound-like nests. Their nests were a work of art. They are built with kelp and other organic materials but are pooped on repeatedly. Think of it as paper machete. Eventually, the nests are shaped into a solid bowl where two chicks will beg to be fed by their attentive parents. Two months later, they will try to survive on their own.

During the nesting season, the parents possess brilliant blue jowls, but their eyes are blue as well. Like other rookeries, there’s lots of drama sur rounding their nesting colony. Peregrine falcons, the world’s fastest flying bird, lurked nearby. Op portunistic gulls waited on the fringe of the rook ery, trying to anticipate a moment to snatch a chick away from its parents. If any wobbly chick fell from its bluff-top nest, several turkey vultures – those cleaners of the coast – scavenged the shoreline.

As we headed back into the trees, back to High way 1, it grew ever so quiet again in a forest cloaked with poison oak, stinging nettles, waxy ferns, and spindly wild rose. Point Lobos was concealed from the rush of Highway 1, its flora and fauna reveling in the cacophony of the turbulent ocean.

OCTOBER CROSSWORD

october Calendar of Events

*Event dates and times are subject to change. Please call ahead or check online to confirm details.

sat OCT 1

Atascadero Colony Days

DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO

10am - 3pm

The parade will start at 10am and run down El Camino Real from Davis Auto Body to West Mall and Palma Ave. by Sunken Gardens.

fri OCT 7

Paso Robles library

Black Velveteen Cat

LIBRARY CONFERENCE ROOM

Register on Sept 22 and pick up materials Sept 29 for a fun intermediate sewing project of a Black Cat to share on Oct 7. For more info and to register, contact by phone (805)237.3870 or email: kchristiansen@prcity.com

sat OCT 8

Morro Bay Rotary

Ducky Derby

899 8:30EMBARCADERO-10am

Proceeds go to support the “Help Us Help Others” Campaign providing grants to local non-profits that enhance our Community.

sat OCT 15

Senior Fair

LEGACY CHURCH

11am – 2pm

In addition to 20+ organizations and vendors, a free lunch will be provided, as well as live music. The event is designed to connect seniors and caregivers with the many resources available within our community.

sat OCT 1 VFW Oktoberfest Car Show

VFW POST 2814, ATASCADERO

9am - 3pm

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2814’s fall car show will be held with an Oktoberfest theme with proceeds benefiting local veterans and their families.

fri OCT 7

Big Ditch Market

ARROYO GRANDE VILLAGE

4 - 8pm

Big Ditch Market in the Village of Arroyo Grande! First Friday of the month, at the Car Corral on E. Branch Street, between OVG & Sports Dugout.

sat OCT 8

Livin’ The Dream Volunteer Awards Dinner and Auction

TEMPLETON AMERICAN LEGION HALL

6 – 10pm

Join us as we honor the volunteers that make our world go ’round and raise some much needed funds for the Department to keep the grass green!

sat OCT 15

Children’s Business Fair

AVILA BEACH COMMUNITY CENTER

10am – 1pm

Kids develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy and then open for business in this one-day marketplace. The event is free and open to the childrensbusinessfair.org/avila-beachpublic.

sat OCT 1

Oktoberfest Benefit

HARRIS STAGE LINE

4pm

Festive Oktoberfest meal with strudel, beer & wine. Live music for dancing by German Umpah band with Cactus Harris. Generously hosted at Harris Stage Lines. German attire and polka dancing are encouraged. Come benefit our north county neighbors in need.

sat OCT 8

Pioneer Day Parade

DOWNTOWN PASO

10am

Bring the entire family to see running antique tractors, horse-drawn wagons, marching bands, mounted equestrian groups, dancers, floats, fire engines, vintage cars, and more.

fri oct14 -

76th Annual Pismo Beach Clam Festival

PRICE STREET

10am

A community tradition since 1946.Attracts generations of families and visitors from all over. Spending three days overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Pismo Beach.

sat OCT 22

fr OCT 7

Nightmare From Main Street Haunted House

828 14TH ST, PASO ROBLES

7 – 10pm

The scariest haunted house on the Central Coast is back in a new location! 6000 sqft of chills and thrills. Now in our 11th year. 100% volunteer, proceeds benefit the local community. nightmarefromainst.com.

sat OCT 8

Live at the Lighthouse Concert Series

PT. SAN LUIS

2pm

Join us for a “bucket list” experience to see some of the very best local talent in an intimate setting - at the historic Point San Luis Lighthouse, perched high atop beautiful Port San Luis and Avila Beach.

sat OCT 15 Morro Bay Sings Fundraiser

1001 KENNEDY WAY

5 – 9pm

12th annual benefit for Community Foundation of Estero Bay. Features dinner, a live auction, and silent auction. Over half a million dollars given to local youth!

Annual Jesse King Memorial Paddle Race

MORRO BAY YACHT CLUB

7:30am – 12pm

The race consists of a 3k or 10k course, beginning and ending at the Morrro Bay Yacht Club in Morro Bay, CA. The event is sponsored by many local Central Coast merchants & organizations, as well as Jesse’s friends and family. All paddle craft are welcome- SUP, Kayak, OC-1, prone paddleboards, and outriggers. Participants will receive a race shirt, raffle ticket, and have access to pre and post-race drinks and snacks.

Stay up on all the events and happenings SLO County!

SUBMIT

sat oct 22

Witches and Warlock Paddle

COLEMAN PARK

4 - 5:30pm

Breakout your broomstick and get out on the water for the Annual Witches/ Warlock Paddle in Morro Bay! This bewitching event is open to the public and benefits the Food Bank Coalition of San Luis Obispo County. Don your favorite witch or warlock costume and meet at Coleman Park, 101 Coleman Drive at the north end of the bay along the Embarcadero, for a ghoulish morning on the water.

fri oct 28

Mid-State Fair Market

PASO ROBLES EVENT CENTER

12pm

Features local crafters and artisans from throughout San Luis Obispo County selling handmade and unique items. Find jewelry, apparel, fashion accessories, home décor, health and beauty products, art, antiques, handmade eats, used items, and more.

sat oct 29

Zoo Boo CHARLES PADDOCK ZOO

5 – 8:30pm

Get your best costume ready and bring the entire family out to a nottoo-scary evening at Zoo Boo! You can expect Halloween decorations throughout the Zoo along with Carnival games, a costume contest, Halloween activities, a Haunted House, and tricks & treats to enjoy!

sat oct 29 MON oct 31

Harvest Fest

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH, PASO

4ROBLES–7pm

Join us for Euro Bungy, Rock Wall, Crafts, Carnival Games, Food truck, BounceHouses, Beer Garden, and more! Costumes encouraged! (Please leave toy weapons at home) Price: 15 for kids free FOR Parents

Trick or DowntownTreat

DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO

4 – 6pm

Join the fun on Entrada Ave in Downtown Atascadero, people and pets of all ages are welcome to come and enjoy family, children, and pet costume contests, hay maze, and of course, Trick or Treating!

Golden Oak Honey & Pumpkin Festival and Kids’ Flea Market

DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES

10am – 5pm

Annual Downtown Golden Oak Honey & Pumpkin Festival + Kids’ Flea Market, in the Downtown City Park. For more info, call the Downtown Paso Robles Main Street office at (805)238-4103.

sat oct 29 sun oct 23

Walk to Alzheimer’sEnd

DOWNTOWN SLO

9am

Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the largest event to raise awareness and funds for dementia care, support, and research.

Atascadero Community Band Fall Concert

ATASCADERO BIBLE CHURCH

3 – 5pm

The Atascadero Community Band presents their Fall Concert, “Celebrations!” Conductor Randy Schwalbe will lead the band in songs including Exhilaration, In the Mood, Candide Overture, & Rhapsody in Blue.

Pumpkins on the Pier

DINOSAUR CAVES PARK

10am – 1pm

Bring your family to the annual Pumpkins in the Park celebration. Children 12 & under are encouraged to participate in pumpkin decorating, games, crafts, bounce houses, etc. The costume contest will begin at 11:30am and will include multiple prizes for all age divisions.

Safe & Fun Halloween Downtown

DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES

4 – 7pm

Safe & Fun Trick or Treat Downtown, Paso Robles. Costumes required, admission is free. Come take your picture with our witches! Dance Demos, Trick or Treat, and Hot Dog BBQ (fee). For more information, call Paso Robles Main Street at (805)238-4103.

FridaysWED + SATMONDAYS Fridays

Baywood / Los Osos

668 SANTA MARIA AVE, SAN LUIS OBISPO

2pm – 4:30pm

Arroyo Grande

WEDNESDAYS: SMART & FINAL PARKING LOT AT 1464 EAST GRAND AVENUE

WED: 8:30am – 11am

SATURDAYS: OLOHAN ALLEY IN THE ARROYO GRANDE VILLAGE

Sat: 12pm – 2pm

San Luis Obispo

FIVE BLOCKS OF HIGUERA ST BETWEEN OSOS ST AND NIPOMO ST IN DOWNTOWN SAN LUIS OBISPO 6pm – 9pm

Thursdays

Morro Bay 2659 MAIN ST, MORRO BAY, 2pm93442– 4:30pm

Avila Beach

AVILA BEACH PROMENADE

4pm – 8pm

Cambria 1000 MAIN ST., VETERANS HALL PARKING LOT 2:30 – 5pm Thursdays

County of San Luis Obispo

All meetings below meet at the County Government Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1055 Monterey St, Room D170, San Luis Obispo.

•Subdivision Review Board • first Monday, 9 a.m.

Board of Supervisors • first and third Tuesday, 9 a.m.

Parks & Recreation Commission

• fourth Tuesday, 6 p.m.

Airport Land Use Commission • third Wednesday, 1:30 p.m.

Air Pollution and Control Board • fourth Wednesday of every odd numbered month, with some exceptions. 9 a.m.

Local Agency Formation Commission • third Thursday, 9 Planninga.m. Commission • second and fourth Thursday, 9 a.m. County Phone Directory: 805781-5000

*Visit slocounty.ca.gov for virtual & up to date meeting info.

San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority Phone: 805-781-4472

179 Cross Street, Suite A San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Visit: slorta.org

San Luis Obispo County Office of Education

Phone: 805-543-7732 3350 Education Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

Visit: slocoe.org

Clerk-Recorder

San Luis Obispo Office Phone: Monday-Friday,805-781-50808:00AM - 5:00

PM, excluding holidays 1055 Monterey Street Suite SanD120Luis Obispo, CA 93408

San Luis ChamberObispoofCommerce

Phone: 805-781-2670

895 Monterey St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Visit: slochamber.org

ChamberCambria of Commerce Phone 805-927-3624

Open Monday through Friday 9 to Please5 call first on weekends. 767 Main Street Cambria, California 93428

Visit: info@cambriachamber.org

ChamberCayucos of Commerce

Phone: 805-995-1200

Mailing Address: PO Box Cayucos,106CA 93430

Visit: cayucoschamber.com

Morro ChamberBayof Commerce 695 Harbor St Morro Bay, CA 93442 Phone: 805-772-4467

Visit: morrochamber.org

Avila Beach Community Services District

Phone: 805-595-2664

100 San Luis Street Avila Beach, CA 93424

Mailing address is: PO Box 309, Avila Beach CA

Visit:93424avilabeachcsd.org

Point San Luis Harbor District

Phone: 805-595-5400

3950 Avila Beach Drive P.O. Box 249 Avila Beach, CA 93424

Los Osos / Baywood Park Chamber of Commerce Phone: 805- 528-4884

781 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos, CA 93402

Mailing: P.O. Box 6282, Los Osos, CA 93412

Visit: lobpchamber.org

Pismo ChamberBeachofCommerce

Phone: 805-773-4382

Visit: pismochamber.com 649 Dolliver St Pismo Beach, CA 93449

MENTION

Government and Business (805) 466-2585

• centralcoastjournal.com

The end of a perfect day... Pismo Beach, California

Camera: NIKON D850 by Tim Mossholder, Santa Maria Social Media: Instagram @timmosholder

To submit your Photo of the Month, send a high resolution (300 dpi) jpeg photo by email to editor@centralcoastjournal.com, along with where in SLO County the photo was taken and the photographer’s name.

Morro Rock will soon stand alone

BY BLAKE ASHLEY FRINO-GERL

When travelers are driving up California’s Highway 1 and get to a point where they see not only the glorious Morro Rock, which beams 576 feet tall, but the three smokestacks standing nearby at 450 feet, at which they know where they are — Morro Bay. And yet, in 2021, Morro Bay officials approved the plan to remove those stacks instead of spending millions to maintain and possibly renovate them.

The Morro Bay Power Plant started with a single smokestack in 1955, and then by the end of that decade, three stood along the waterfront before Morro Bay was even incorporated, according to MorroBay.org. Pacific Gas and Electric operated the plant to burn natural gas and generate electricity until 1998 and then sold it to Charlotte, North Carolina-based Duke Energy. Then Dingy took ownership of the plant in 2007 before permanently closing in 2014 because of environmental impacts. Vistra Corporation now owns the plant and the property. Morro Bay City Manager Scott Collins says that the agreement the city has with Vistra is that by the end of 2027, if the stacks and its facilities are not torn down, the company owes the city $3 million.

The decision has come with strain. Aside from losing what could be deemed as part of our little town’s skyline, the environmental hazards are what worries many with it all being torn down.

Collins states, “Vistra has submitted a project proposal to build the battery storage facility on 22 acres on that power plant site, near the old tank farm site on the property (not where the generation building and stacks are currently located) and the project also includes tearing down the generation building and stacks.”

Tearing down the facility and stacks would not be through implosion,

but rather a slow process so as not to cause environmental damage.

“The proposed project is going through the city and environmental review process currently, and likely be reviewed by our Planning Com mission, City Council, and Coastal Commission toward the middle of next year,” Collins adds.

According to energy-storage.news, Vistra said that the facilities would house 180,000 lithium-ion batteries and “would be used to absorb excess renewable generation, mainly solar, and put it on to the grid at times when it was most needed.”

The corporation says that the advantages of the site is that it would tie into “PG&E’s active transmission lines with three new project-level substations connecting to PG&E’s existing substation built to take elec tricity away from the gas power plant which was there already,” according to its website (vistra.com).

While the facility would then offer a large amount of local jobs and would be deemed fire-safe, as mentioned on morro-bay.ca.us, there are still concerns. There are issues of not trusting the facility to have the most efficient fire safety and protection for the ocean and its inhabitants.

Many locals and even tourists have come to know the stacks as a symbol for the city. According to a New York Times article in June 2022, Collins estimates that our town of about 10,000 residents were split on whether they should go down or not.

The stacks are seen as dangerous, though, in terms of an earthquake or other natural disaster. In addition to that, there are feelings that unlike the rock, the stacks reside as an unnatural element taking away from the serene coastline view.

Collins sees that “the stacks represent an important part of our local history, and we are supportive of Vistra’s efforts to honor them with a monument should the battery project and tear down of the old power plant facilities proceed.”

He also adds that “the proposed Vistra project provides a unique op portunity to advance green energy investments in our region and bring additional long-term benefits to our community.”

Still, they are deemed as a strong emblem, so much that businesses have included them in their trademark. Three Stacks and a Rock is the name of a brewery and surf shop Wavelengths also has gear imprinted with the stacks beside the Morro Rock.

Often, the rock and the stacks go hand in hand. However, it seems that what some have admired for so long, will precisely change in some fashion. There is no doubt that either way, some will have sore eyes looking out upon our coastline in the future. Some may wince at the missing stacks, while some may smile at the sole Morro Rock sitting strong and stationary by the surf.