“I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work the more I live.”
– George Bernard Shaw
It is now September — summer has ended, and school is back in session. As we step into fall, I can’t help but pause and wonder where the year has gone. It feels like we were just celebrating the start of summer, and now here we are with the colors of autumn peeking in. This season has always been one of my favorites. After the long summer days of August, filled with visitors who have filled our beaches, I welcome the golden afternoons and the crisp, cool evenings that bring such comfort.
In our home, the start of September also means back-to-school routines. The boys are settled into their classes, and with that comes a fresh rhythm of homework, sports, and busy schedules. There’s always a certain energy this time of year — one that feels both grounding and invigorating. As our families settle into this new season, our city is also entering a time of transition.
The Morro Bay City Council is currently seeking community feedback on what qualities residents would like to see in the next city manager. The search began in July after the city parted ways with its former city manager, Yvonne Kimball, who served for two years. Since then, Andrea Lueker has been stepping in as interim city manager while the hiring process moves forward.
The city has opened a community survey, which takes just a few minutes to complete, to ensure that residents’ voices are part of the process. This is an opportunity for all of us to help shape the future of our city by sharing what we value most in leadership. The survey closes on September 30, and I encourage every resident to take part. You can find more details at morrobayca.gov
Another example of our community coming together could be seen recently when world-renowned symphony and opera conductor Kent Nagano led a benefit concert at the Cuesta College Performing Arts
Center. The concert was organized by Friends of Morro Elementary, a group dedicated to raising funds so the City of Morro Bay can purchase the former Morro Elementary School site for community use.
The effort is urgent, as the city faces a 60-day deadline to secure the property. This piece of our community’s history has the potential to once again be a gathering place, this time reimagined for future generations. The dedication of the Friends of Morro Elementary reminds us how powerful it can be when people join forces for a shared vision. To learn more or contribute to this important cause, visit friendsofmor roelementary.org
Moments like these remind me that community is more than just where we live — it is what we build together. Whether it’s shaping the leadership of our city or rallying around a historic school site, the people of Morro Bay continue to show up for one another. That spirit is what makes this place so special.
As we step into the season ahead, I hope you take a moment to enjoy the beauty of fall in Morro Bay. Let’s carry this spirit of connection and collaboration with us — it is, after all, what makes our community thrive.
We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of Morro Bay Life
Hayley Mattson, Publisher hayley@13stars.media
Through Print making communities better
City OKs oyster farm liquor license
Grassy Bar Oyster Co. seeks off-sale liquor license to enhance takeout offerings, support working waterfront, and promote local culinary culture
By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life
Alocal oyster grower will soon be able to offer wine and beer to wash down your locally grown mollusks.
Grassy Bar Oyster Co., 1215 Embarcadero Ste. D in Morro Bay Landing, was given permission by the City Council to seek a Type 20 – Off-Sale Beer and Wine license from the state Alcoholic Beverage Control agency (ABC).
Because ABC has determined there are too many liquor licenses on the Embarcadero, in order for someone to get another license, they have to get permission from the City Council, a so-called “Determination of Public Convenience or Necessity.”
Community Development Director Airlin Singewald’s report said Grassy Bar sent the city a letter in August spelling out the reasons why it wanted the license and the benefits it would bring to them, their customers, and the city’s working waterfront.
“Allowing Grassy Bar the ability to sell beer and wine for off site consumption will diversify their sales and better support the business in the event of a difficult crop phase,” the report said. “The sales will also complement oyster sales and promote a better customer experience with unique pairings, capitalizing on potential partnerships with local wineries.”
In the company’s letter to the city, Grassy Bar’s secretary and co-owner, Nathan Churches, Ph.D., said, “Many of our customers who pick up to-go orders ask where they can purchase a nice wine or beer that will accommodate their cooking plans. Our oysters are world-class fare, and they pair well with a white wine or a light beer if being consumed raw, or something more complex if being cooked on a grill.”
MORRO BAY
Surf comedy short ‘Salty’ to premiere at Bay Theater
Local filmmaker Josh Martin will premiere his short surf comedy “Salty” at the Bay Theater in Morro Bay on Sunday, Sept. 21. Doors open at 3:30 p.m., with the screening beginning at 4 p.m. Following the premiere, audiences can enjoy the 1987 surf classic “North Shore.”
The event will also feature a raffle benefiting the
He added that they often have folks come in for a dozen oysters for a weekend barbecue and ask if they can get some wine too, but they have to direct them elsewhere.
“We think that our commercial fishing business should be able to capitalize on this demand, especially because this will not represent any changes to our ongoing business structure, facilities, or equipment,” Churches said. “Grassy Bar Oyster Company already sells non-alcoholic beverages and has a small cooler at our ‘Shucking Shed’ outlet, and we are simply looking to add an option of cold beer and wine for off-site consumption.”
He said they’ve also had offers from local wineries to do food pairings and tasting events, but have had to turn them down.
“These represent opportunities to grow the cultural fabric of locally produced food in the Central California region that we are not currently able to leverage,” Churches said. “Our business will forever be focused, first and foremost, on growing commercial quantities of the highest quality seafood in Morro Bay [over 1 million oysters per year, employing several commercial fishing jobs], but there are always risks associated with any kind of farming.”
He added that the take-out liquor license
Coastal News Briefs
Foutz Visuals, Wavelengths, CCS, KR Surfboards, and more.
“Salty” was produced in collaboration with Room for Cream Films and is based on Martin’s featurelength screenplay of the same name.
For more details, visit saltythemovie.com or follow @saltythemovie on Instagram. Tickets and event information are available at morrobaymovie.com/ salty-north-shore
‘Out of the Blue’: Art exhibit explores the many shades of blue
Dive into a spectrum of creativity with “Out of
LaChance showcases whimsical stoneware creations with layered textures and a vintage feel.
The exhibit runs Sept. 18 through Nov. 3, at Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., with an artist’s reception on Sunday, Sept. 21, from 2 to 4 p.m.
For details, visit artcentermorrobay.org or call 805-772-2504
Community input sought for Morro Bay’s next city manager
The City of Morro Bay is actively seeking community input as it searches for a new city manager. Residents are encouraged to participate in a brief online survey to share their perspectives on the qualities, experience, and leadership style they deem most important for the city’s next leader. The survey is available at polco.us/sxwwn9 and takes approximately five minutes to complete.
The feedback gathered will assist the City Coun cil in identifying candidates who align with the community’s values and priorities. This initiative follows a similar successful approach used during
would help continue Morro Bay’s working waterfront and help keep the fishing industry robust, “the very reason that tourists and locals alike love our community and visit our waterfront.” Grassy Bar is one of two oyster growers in Morro Bay. The other is Morro Bay Oyster Company.
The harbor has a long history of aquaculture, and oysters are a large part of that heritage.
According to the Morro Bay Historical Society (see: historicalmorrobay.org/hidden-history/ oyster-farming), oyster farming has been going on here since at least 1932, but there is evidence found in ancient middens that Native Americans harvested native oysters for centuries.
With the Oyster Act of 1851, the newly formed state of California started allowing oyster farmers to lease state tidelands to grow them. That’s where the local oyster farms in Morro Bay are located, on state-owned submerged lands {mudflats) controlled by State Fish & Wildlife, in the Back Bay.
But native oysters didn’t fare so well under cultivation, and by the 1880s, farmers discovered that “imported Eastern oysters grew faster and larger than the local variety and began to switch so that between 1890 and 1930 the Eastern variety was very dominant in the market,” according to the Historical Society.
By 1905, oysters from Japan were brought in, and they grew even better than the eastern ones. Those Japanese imports took over by 1930 and are the same variety of oysters grown here today.
There are no native oysters in Morro Bay, and anyone caught poaching oysters from the beds in the back bay could be cited by game wardens and receive a hefty fine.
For more information about Grassy Bar Oyster Co., see the website at grassybaroyster.com
the hiring process for the police chief, where resident input played a pivotal role in selecting a candidate who resonated with the community’s expectations. Community members are encouraged to participate promptly to ensure their voices are heard in this important decision-making process.
Morro Bay City Council selects Brian Stack as next city attorney
The City of Morro Bay has announced the appointment of Brian Stack as the new city attorney, effective Aug. 18. Stack brings over a decade of experience in public agency law, with a deep understanding of land use, coastal zone policy, and environmental regulation. He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from Cal Poly in 2008 and his law degree from Loyola Law School in 2011. He began his legal career at a civil litigation firm in Los Angeles before returning to the Central Coast in 2013, where he joined a local firm representing
A harvest of thousands of oysters is shown for Grassy Bar Oyster Co., in Morro Bay, one of two oyster farms in the Back Bay. Grassy Bar has been granted permission to seek an off-site sales liquor license from the state, so customers can buy a bottle of wine or six-pack of beer to go with their fresh oysters. Photo courtesy of Grassy Bar Oyster Co
In 2017, Stack joined the County of San Luis Obispo as a deputy county counsel. In this role, he advised a wide range of county departments. He represented the county in administrative proceedings and litigation, particularly involving land use permitting and enforcement. Outside of his professional accomplishments, Stack is active in the community. He previously served as a volunteer attorney for San Luis Obispo Legal Assistance Foundation’s senior legal services program and currently serves as a board member, helping to advance the organization’s mission to provide free legal resources to seniors, veterans, and low-income families.
Mayor Carla Wixom shared, “Please join me in welcoming Brian Stack as Morro Bay’s new in-house city attorney. His expertise and dedication will greatly enhance our commitment to serving our community.”
Stack lives just outside Paso Robles with his wife, dogs, and farm animals. In their free time, they enjoy camping, trail riding with their horses, and lake activities. Brian is also a passionate aviator and an instrument-rated private pilot.
The City Council looks forward to welcoming Stack to Morro Bay and working collaboratively with him to serve the community. Stack’s employment contract was brought before the council during the Aug. 12 City Council meeting. The council also wishes to express its sincere gratitude to Robert Schultz, who has provided steady legal guidance while serving as interim city attorney over the past several months.
Morro Bay extends Planning Commission application deadline
The City of Morro Bay is seeking volunteers to fill a mid-term vacancy on its Planning Commission. The term runs through Jan. 31, 2027.
The application deadline has been extended to Friday, Sept. 12, at 5 p.m. Interested residents can find eligibility requirements and submit applications via the City Clerk’s website.
For more information, visit morrobayca.gov/268/
Boards-Committees-Commissions
possession of more than 600 images, with 10 or more images involving a prepubescent minor.
from our local waterways.
on South Division Street’
By the Sea Productions presents ‘Miracle
By the Sea Productions will stage “Miracle on South Division Street,” a heartfelt family comedy by Tom Dudzick about faith, secrets, and identity. The play follows the Nowak family of Buffalo, N.Y., where matriarch Clara tends to a shrine honoring the Virgin Mary — until a startling deathbed confession challenges the family’s long-held beliefs, with hilarious results.
Directed by Nicolette Tempesta, the production stars Jean Miller as Clara, alongside Beth Bolyard, Andrea Bowers, and Topher Lyons as her adult children. Performances run one weekend only, Sept. 12–14, with shows Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m., at 545 Shasta Ave. in Morro Bay.
Tickets and reservations are available at bytheseaproductions.org or by calling (805) 776-3287
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
Two arrested on multiple child sex crime charges in San Luis Obispo County
Multiple charges of child sexual abuse, including the creation of child pornography, have been filed against two individuals in San Luis Obispo County.
Tristan Paul Naylor, 28, and Jazmyn Elain Sheetermedina, 29, were arraigned on Friday, Aug. 22, in a San Luis Obispo courtroom on 20 separate counts. Both defendants pleaded not guilty.
According to the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office, the alleged victim is a 9-year-old girl. The two defendants, who were intimate partners during the time of the alleged crimes, are accused of committing the offenses between Jan. 1, 2022, and Feb. 28, 2025, “with the intent of arousing, appealing to, and gratifying the lust, passions, and sexual desires” of the defendants.
Five of the charges relate specifically to child pornography, including one count alleging the
Naylor and Sheetermedina are currently being held at San Luis Obispo County Jail on $2 million bail each, according to court records. They are scheduled to appear again in court on Thursday, Aug. 28, in Department 6 before Judge Michael Frye.
The San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office is urging anyone with information related to this case to contact their office, the Atascadero Police Department, or Crime Stoppers at (805) 549-STOP.
Community rallies to ensure ECHO children start school year prepared and confident
As students across San Luis Obispo County sharpen their pencils and lace up new shoes for the first day of school, children at El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) are walking into classrooms with the same sense of excitement and readiness, thanks to the generosity of our community.
From backpacks fully stocked with notebooks, pens, markers, and calculators, to gift cards for clothing, socks, and shoes, local partners stepped up to make sure every child at ECHO had the tools needed to thrive. The Atascadero Police Association, San Luis Obispo County Office of Education, and The Paso Sherpa came together with ECHO to ensure that no student was left without the essentials.
“We always like to offer help to ECHO in the small ways we can, and Back to School is one of our favorite times of year,” said Kat Westcott, owner of The Paso Sherpa. “Not only is it fun to shop for the right supplies, but knowing these items will help children feel confident and succeed at school makes it exponentially better.”
With 130 beds across two campuses, ECHO serves an average of 40 children every night. For these students, starting the school year prepared goes beyond just pencils and paper. It provides stability, dignity, and a sense of belonging — key building blocks for academic success and self-esteem. Research consistently shows that students who begin school with the necessary supplies feel more engaged, perform better in class, and are less likely to fall behind.
Families and children at ECHO’s shelters expressed their gratitude and joy as they received their new supplies — smiling ear to ear and eager to show off their backpacks. “These donations don’t just provide school supplies; they help restore hope and show our families that the community is behind them,” said Wendy Lewis, President/ CEO of ECHO.
For more information about ECHO and its programs, visit echoshelter.org
ECOSLO announces 2025 Creeks to Coast Cleanup
ECOSLO is excited to announce the 20th Annual SLO County Creeks to Coast Cleanup, an annual volunteer event uniting communities across San Luis Obispo County to protect and restore our coastal and inland waterways.
Taking place throughout the county on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., this annual cleanup empowers community members in SLO County to come together to protect our waterways, communities, wildlife, and neighbors. From San Simeon to Nipomo, ECOSLO has mobilized thousands of volunteers at this event since 2005, removing tons of waste from sensitive ecosystems. In 2024 alone, volunteers collected nearly 8,000 pounds of trash
“The Creeks to Coast Cleanup isn’t simply about removing litter,” said ECOSLO Executive Director Kendra Paulding. “It’s a hands-on opportunity for individuals and families to directly support the health of our watersheds, protect wildlife, and strengthen our communities — all while working toward a greener, more sustainable SLO County.”
Volunteers are encouraged to register in advance to select a preferred cleanup location and ensure adequate supplies are available. Cleanup sites are listed geographically from North County to South County, making it easy for individuals and groups to find a convenient location.
Join ECOSLO and our partners as we work together to protect the waterways that connect our communities, from the creeks to the coast. Every piece of trash collected makes a difference. Learn more about this event at ecoslo.org/creeksto-coast
Recipients announced for the 2025 Women of Influence North County
Three local leaders have been named the 2025 Women of Influence North County (wINC) honorees, recognized by the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce and the American Association of University Women (AAUW) for their impact on the community. The program, now in its third year, celebrates women whose leadership, resilience, and vision continue to inspire lasting change across San Luis Obispo County and beyond.
The 2025 recipients represent excellence, resilience, and a deep commitment to creating lasting change:
• Amanda Wittstrom-Higgins — Founder of Full Cup Solutions and Dream Big Darling, Amanda is a visionary leader whose influence spans the wine industry and beyond. A Paso Robles native, she co-founded Wine Speak Paso Robles, elevated Ancient Peaks Winery to national prominence, and launched programs like FLOurish to empower women nationwide. Through scholarships, mentorship, and hands-on career development, she has inspired countless individuals to lead with confidence and purpose.
“Amanda makes you want to rise to your very best,” shared one nominator. Her ability to blend business acumen with deep community roots has fostered growth for local businesses and strengthened the Central Coast’s wine reputation.
• Candice Galli — Executive Director of Cancer Support Community – California Central Coast, Candice brings unmatched empathy and authenticity to her role as a cancer survivor herself. Her personal journey with ovarian cancer drives her mission to ensure individuals and families have free, comprehensive support close to home. A resident of Atascadero, she leads with openness and compassion, inspiring women to transform challenges into purpose. She has expanded access to critical programs, fostered a culture of hope, and built lasting connections with participants.
“Candice makes you feel seen, understood, and never alone,” said a colleague. Her story, from participant to leader, is a testament to the healing power of community.
• Traci Hollinger — Leader of Achievement House and NCI Affiliates, Traci serves over 500 individuals with disabilities from Salinas to Gaviota and oversees a team of 180
CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
Business Spotlight: Culligan Water of Morro Bay
For over six decades, Culligan
Water of Morro Bay has been a trusted provider of water treatment solutions on California's Central Coast. Established in 1959, this locally operated franchise is part of Hall’s Culligan, the largest Culligan franchise in the U.S., serving communities like Los Osos, Cambria, Cayucos, and San Simeon.
Morro Bay's water, sourced from local groundwater wells, often contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, leading to hard water issues. Culligan addresses these concerns with customized solutions, including water softeners, reverse osmosis systems, and whole-house filtration units. Their Aquasential™ Smart High Efficiency Water Softener features smart brine tank monitoring and auto-bypass valves, ensuring efficient operation and minimal maintenance. One long-time customer praised, “The service person never misses the tank exchange, so the very necessary soft water (for this town!) is always there. I appreciate that, as well as the water filter to provide good drinking water. Every office call has been answered promptly and with real
NEWS BRIEFS
answers. I've had Culligan for 20 years and will never quit!”
Beyond residential services, Culligan offers commercial and industrial water treatment options like deionization and large-scale reverse osmosis systems, catering to diverse business needs. Their bottled water delivery service provides flexible scheduling and eco-friendly options, reducing plastic waste while ensuring access to clean drinking water. Customers frequently note the professionalism and care of the technicians: “The technicians that came out to my home were on time and very courteous. The work was completed within the time that was provided as an estimate. The work seemed of high quality and care was taken in the execution. Overall, it was an excellent experience.”
Culligan places a strong emphasis on knowledgeable staff and customer service. “Technician and front office people are knowledgeable and open to good question dialogue, allowing one to understand the situation and how to make a good/better decision,” shared another satisfied client. Office personnel are also recognized for their friendliness and efficiency: “The office staff are very
staff. Her visionary leadership has expanded programs that empower clients to gain independence, secure employment, and thrive in their communities. She has been a tireless advocate for adults with disabilities, ensuring they have the tools, resources, and dignity they deserve. A dedicated mentor, Traci has nurtured the careers of countless staff members, fostering a supportive and empowering workplace. “She fights for those
nice and helpful ... customer service is top notch, and their products are what is expected.”
Quick responses to issues and attentive service have earned long-term loyalty from local residents. “Quick response to my latest issue, which was taken care of to my satisfaction, much appreciated. We have dealt with Culligan for many years, has always been a
without a voice and makes everyone feel valued,” noted a nominator. Her selfless dedication has transformed lives and advanced opportunities across the Central Coast.
The 2025 wINC Luncheon will take place on Thursday, Sept. 11, at Springhill Suites in Atascadero, where each recipient will share her story. One honoree will be named as the 2025 Atascadero Chamber of Commerce Woman of Influence and will be recognized at the Chamber’s Annual Awards Dinner and Gala on March 28.
wINC tickets are expected to sell out and can
positive experience; staff managers have always been experienced, professional, knowledgeable, and very patient,” one customer remarked.
Culligan also emphasizes sustainability, contributing to the reduction of plastic bottle usage globally. Their dedication to environmental responsibility aligns with their mission to provide high-quality water solutions.
be purchased at atascaderochamber.org
Atascadero, Central Coast Zoo launch weekend food vending program
The City of Atascadero and the Central Coast Zoo are introducing a new pilot program bringing local food vendors to Atascadero Lake Park on weekends. Beginning Aug. 30 through Oct. 19, vendors will set up at the zoo entrance every Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m., offering
fresh food options for zoo visitors and parkgoers. The program is designed to enhance the guest experience by providing food not currently available at the park. Based on its success, the vending opportunity may expand in the future. Vendors must meet participation requirements, including insurance, permits, and committing to both days each weekend.
Applications are still being accepted, with the deadline extended to Friday, Aug. 22. To apply or learn more, visit atascadero.org/news or contact the City Events team at (805) 470-3360 or events@atascadero.org
For those in the
Culligan Water of Morro Bay has been providing water treatment solutions to the Central Coast since 1959. They are located at 355 Quintana Place. Contributed Photo
Morro Bay to get thermal detection cameras
Donation of AI-powered infrared cameras aims to detect fires early, protect the waterfront, and enhance public safety across the city
By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life
The Morro Bay Fire Department is getting some hightech assistance in its efforts to make the community safe from fires.
The City Council approved accepting a donation of “thermal imaging cameras to improve public safety through its automatic fire detection technology,” Morro Bay Fire Chief Daniel McCrain said.
The donations are coming from SYTIS, a San Luis Obispo company that manufactures infrared and thermal imaging cameras and software for fire detection and “automatic notifications,” using AI technology. It appears the company is donating three cameras, two fixed and one mobile.
The two fixed cameras being donated to MBFD would be pointed toward troublesome areas in town where fires have been known to start, though the fire department will continue to evaluate locations.
“One fixed location camera would be installed on City’s Water Reclamation Facility property positioned to view the Black Hills open space for detection of fires in the ‘Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone,’” McCrain said. “This area was selected due to the fire hazard severity and fuel accumulation in this open space. This area also has a history of small fires in illegal campsites.”
The flanks of Black Hill facing Highway 1 are actually State Parks’ property and the state often conducts controlled burns there to get rid of dead brush and debris.
It’s also a popular spot for homeless people who light campfires to keep warm.
The second camera is tentatively slated to go in on top of the hill in North Morro Bay.
“The second Camera is intended to be positioned on the Nutmeg Water Tank location with a view of the waterfront for identification of vessel fires in the harbor and may be manually utilized to locate victims in surf rescue incidents along the waterfront,” McCrain said.
A third camera would be mounted on a fire engine to help with
a growing danger to firefighters, electric vehicles.
“The vehicle mounted camera would be installed on one of the Morro Bay Fire Department apparatus for use on emergency scenes for victim location and fire detection,” the chief said. “This will be especially useful on motor vehicle accidents involving electric vehicles to monitor the temperature of EV batteries.”
SYTIS is already selling its technology to utility companies, the transportation industry, security “and other industries for property and equipment monitoring and fire detection.”
One growing use has been by the green energy industry, such as battery storage plants, which have the danger of overheating and potentially catching fire, as happened last January at the Moss Landing Power Plant, in a 300 megawatt storage plant owned by Vistra. Use by fire departments is new for the company.
According to McCrain, “SYTIS believes their equipment can be beneficial for a public safety application with automatic fire detection and notification to alert first responders of fires during the initial stages of fire development, potentially shortening the time it takes for first responders to be notified of an incident.”
The claim is they are pretty sensitive and can detect very small fires and they’re good in foggy conditions as well, which might come in handy in Morro Bay.
“The company states their cameras have the ability to detect a 1-foot by 1’ fire from over 5 miles away using AI and thermal fire detection,” McCrain said. “The cameras are able to see through heavy smoke or fog that would obscure a standard optical camera.”
The chief said SYTIS’s CEO Darryl Mendivil contacted them about the donations.
“The CEO has a personal connection to the City of Morro Bay and would like to provide this equipment to the Morro Bay Fire Department to improve public safety,” McCrain said. “Successful application of this camera technology could provide real-world feedback on their technology to improve this public safety platform.”
The company is providing everything needed to make the cameras operational. “SYTIS will provide thermal imaging cameras and related software to the Morro Bay Fire Department and will coor-
dinate installation with Public Works and the City’s IT Department to ensure there are no conflicts or security concerns,” McCrain said.
And it’s not cheap. The three cameras are valued at $47,100.
They are capable of reporting hot spots in real time, through a connection with an iPad or other electronic devices.
That might come in very handy in the case of a late-night or early morning fire, when most people are asleep and the town is quiet. With fires, every minute counts.
While most all fires start small, under the right conditions, a fire can erupt into a major blaze in less than a minute and within five minutes, a house can become fully engulfed in flames.
And wildfires, given dry and windy conditions and a big fuel load, can spread 20 miles in one hour.
The thermal cameras are expected to be up and running in about a month.
A July of unpredictable challenges for SLO County deputies BEHIND The BADGE
IAN PARKINSON
COUNTY SHERIFF
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that crime has a rhythm of its own. It doesn’t follow a schedule, it doesn’t happen on a neat timeline, and it often shows up in clusters that seem to come out of nowhere.
Some months are quiet. Others remind us how unpredictable and complex public safety work can
be. This past July was one of those months — a stretch of time where multiple high-profile incidents occurred across the county in rapid succession. Each event was different, each serious in its own right, and together, they serve as a reminder of the ever-changing demands on our deputies and investigative teams.
Late on the night of July 1, we responded to a potentially dangerous situation involving a man reportedly armed and known to be violent. The caller, a woman who knew the individual, feared for her safety when she believed he was near her home. Deputies arrived just after midnight on July 2 and found the man near the residence.
When deputies attempted to make contact, the subject presented a handgun. In response, deputies discharged their service weapons. The man, a 40-year-old from Chowchilla, was struck and later pronounced deceased at the scene. Our deputies immediately rendered medical aid, called for backup and medics, and handled the situation with professionalism under immense pressure.
Just a few days later, on the Fourth of July, the Templeton Feed and Grain building caught fire. While we initially responded to assist Templeton Fire with the investigation, it quickly became clear that the circumstances were suspicious. Through the efforts of our detectives and the help of community members who provided information and surveillance footage, we identified a group of juveniles involved in the incident. One of them, a North County resident, was ultimately determined to have started the fire.
Then, on July 8, we received a call reporting a domestic violence incident in Paso Robles. The victim, a woman who sustained injuries, had managed to escape the home. The suspect had barricaded himself inside. Deputies set up a perimeter and deployed our Crisis Negotiation Team, Special Enforcement Detail, and drone unit. After hours of attempts to communicate, the suspect surrendered peacefully and was taken into custody. Incidents like this reinforce the value of specialized units trained to defuse volatile situations without resorting to force.
We also faced the troubling case of a missing 16-year-old girl from Nipomo. She was reported missing on July 10 and was considered at-risk. She was last seen leaving her home that morning. Based on tips, we believed she may have been seen
in San Miguel and Santa Maria and might have been attempting to leave the state. Our investigators worked tirelessly alongside her family and partner agencies to locate her. Thankfully, she was found safe and has since been reunited with her loved ones.
These incidents are very different in nature — an officer-involved shooting, an arson investigation, a domestic violence standoff, and a missing juvenile — but together, they demonstrate the diverse and unpredictable landscape of law enforcement in our county.
In some months, the call volume may be lower, and the nature of the crimes less serious. In others, like July, we experience a spike that tests our readiness, response capabilities, and community partnerships. What I want the public to take away is this: the safety of San Luis Obispo County depends not just on law enforcement but on all of us. It’s the residents who report suspicious activity, share surveillance footage, provide tips, and look out for one another who help us make this a safer place to live.
I am proud of the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office and their unwavering commitment to keeping our communities safe, especially in moments when unpredictability turns into action. July was busy, and at times intense, but it also reminded us that we are never alone in our work.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
A close-up view of an SYTIS vehicle-mounted thermal imaging camera is shown. SYTIS, a San Luis Obispo tech company that manufactures cameras for automatic fire detection and notificiations, has donated cameras to the Morro Bay Fire Department. Photo courtesy of SYTIS
SLO County Office of Education: Crazy cool cats
JAMES BRESCIA, ED.D. SLOCOEDU SUPERINTENDENT
The California Central Coast is rich in arts and often serves as a refuge or haven for artists from the Bay Area and Southern California. Tourists and locals enjoy this beautiful part of California, located between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Our county extends over 70 miles along the Pacific Coast and reaches inland through the desert and mountains to Kern County, covering 3,616 square miles with a population of just over 284,000. Major economic drivers include agriculture, tourism, construction, knowledge and innovation, advanced manufacturing, health services, and energy.
What do these economic drivers have in common? “ArtsBased Leadership.” According to the Oxford Academic Community Development Journal, the arts are often considered peripheral to the community development process and play only a minor role in regenerating areas. Is this all there is to the arts in a community?
Despite increasing globalization, communities are beginning to recognize their own identity, culture, traditional art forms, and the value of working together locally. Take a look around each Central Coast community, and you will notice that the local youth often create that art.
Academics and business leaders acknowledge that arts-based instruction is an interdisciplinary approach to learning. Several firms on the Central Coast are using the arts as a pathway to explore non-art topics, such as leadership, change, and business innovation. San Luis Obispo County is fortunate to have growing Arts Partnerships for many of our schools, districts, and communities.
Involvement in the arts helps us quiet the mind and provides space for inner wisdom. The Arts create bonding experiences that facilitate collaboration and accelerate examining an issue from alternate perspectives. Arts-based activities can develop a sense of belonging, build trust, find shared values, and shift perceptions. Ultimately, arts-based learning, combined with whole-brain creativity and design thinking, can enhance creative skills.
Local arts organizations continue to partner with the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education to support arts outreach. Our partnerships promote the arts by providing students with opportunities to experience and participate in the arts alongside professional artists.
The Libretto Jazz Conservatory, sponsored by the San Luis Obispo Career Technical Educa-
tion Foundation, local donors, and Libretto owners Corey Jordon and Kate Smith, is a new afterschool music program for high school and college students. Libretto and the SLO CTE Foundation collaborated with the Los Angeles-based Michael Ragonese School of Music to bring world-class musical talent and instruction to the next generation of musicians here in San Luis Obispo County.
Michael is a highly accomplished jazz pianist and composer based in Los Angeles, with over 25 years of experience in the music industry. After graduating from CSU Northridge, Ragonese has become one of the most sought-after pianists of his generation, performing, touring, and recording with legends such as Barbara Streisand, Walter Smith III, Mark Turner, Chanett Moffett, Bennie Maupin, Dave Kos, Rick Braun, Norman Brown, Alphonso Johnson, Jonn Daversa, Tierney Sutton, Stanley Jordan, Bob Sheppard, and others.
Michael debuted as a bandleader in 2019 with the release of “Day to Day,” featuring Walter Smith III. His second album, “Stracci,” was released in 2023, paying homage to his Italian heritage and classical training. This summer, Michael led the student jam session at Libretto in Paso Robles and the CTE Foundation Encore Center.
Libretto hosts a monthly evening jam session led by Michael and his trio, which is open and free to any student musician in San Luis Obispo County. High school, college, and even middle school
students have participated in playing alongside professional musicians like Michael. Jazz legends Luca Alemanno and Mark Ferber have also occasionally joined the Conservatory.
We invite arts organizations interested in collab-
orating with our local schools to strengthen our community. It is an honor to serve as your County Superintendent.
“The only thing better than singing is more singing.” — Ella Fitzgerald
The Libretto Jazz Conservatory, shown here performing, is an example of SLO County’s efforts to promote education in the arts. Contributed photo
Eighty Years of Love: Maxine and Riley Elkins celebrate rare milestone
Atascadero couple, married in 1945, reflects on a lifetime of faith, family, and perseverance as they celebrate eight decades together
On Aug. 23, Maxine and Riley Elkins will celebrate something few couples ever experience: 80 years of marriage. At 95 and 97, the longtime Atascadero and Morro Bay residents reflect on a lifetime of love and perseverance that has spanned nearly a century.
Their journey began in 1945, in the uncertain years of World War II. Maxine was just 15, Riley only 17. The two met in high school in Placerville — he a senior, she a freshman. After several months of friendship, their relationship blossomed into something deeper. Like many young couples of the time, they were acutely aware that the war cast shadows over the future.
“A great many of the young people were getting married because they didn’t know whether or not they would get back together, you know?” Maxine shared.
So, in the summer of 1945, they did something bold. Borrowing Riley’s brother’s old truck, the teenagers drove over the Sierra Nevada from Mt. Shasta to Carson City, Nevada. There, in the courthouse, they eloped.
“We left notes,” Maxine recalled with a laugh. “I left a note, and he told his brother, and his brother told his mother the next morning that he was gone to get married. And my folks found my note ... we came back from Carson City very bravely and stood up in front of them and said, ‘we’re going to stay married, and if you bother us, we’ll leave and we’ll never come back.’ And so they were just astounded, you know, but it worked out very well, and we’re still together.”
Eight decades later, their determination proved true.
After their marriage, Riley joined the U.S. Army as a supply sergeant. He served stateside during the Korean War era, stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. Meanwhile, Maxine graduated high school and began supporting Riley in his work.
When the war years ended, the couple settled in Hermosa Beach, where Riley learned the building trade. That skill would become
his life’s work. Over the decades, Riley built 55 homes and several apartments throughout San Luis Obispo County, particularly in Morro Bay and Atascadero, and Southern California. Many of those houses still stand today, testaments to his craftsmanship and care. He also contributed to significant state projects, including the rebuilding of the historic Sonoma Barracks, and later taught building skills to prisoners preparing for release, giving them the tools to create better lives.
“I think everyone who bought
one of his houses was very pleased,” Maxine said proudly.
“And we’re friends with all of them ... we have known them all the way through from the building to them until now.”
Maxine supported Riley’s work while also carving her own path. Together, they worked as real estate agents, and she often handled the behind-the-scenes logistics — calls, appointments, and paperwork — that helped Riley’s building business flourish.
The Elkins made their perma nent home on the Central Coast
more than 60 years ago, raising their only son, Michael, in Atascadero.
“We were married 10 years before we had Michael,” Maxine explained. “Because we needed to grow up. We didn’t have to get married. We just wanted to.”
Today, their family includes granddaughter Jordan and a great-granddaughter, both carrying on Riley’s name as their middle name.
Fishing was Riley’s favorite hobby when he wasn’t building homes. He spent countless hours at local lakes and coastal streams, rod in hand. Together, the couple also enjoyed cruises, marking anniversaries with trips abroad. At their 50th wedding anniversary, they celebrated aboard a
cruise ship, smiling together in photographs that remain family treasures.
Despite the challenges of age, Maxine’s reflections on their life together remain filled with gratitude.
“He’s been the fine kind of a man you want to be married to in every way. He’s been considerate and nice and helpful in any way you want to name,” she said. “He’s been the top kind of a fellow. I can’t put a time on him because over the years, those things have expanded into more and more. And that’s really what love is. It doesn’t start out bang. It starts out, and it grows. It grows with all the care and consideration and help you can give it. And time and love.”
From surviving the Second World War, ration books, and the shock of Pearl Harbor, to watching the moon landing, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, and decades of change in their hometown, the Elkins have lived through some of history’s most defining moments — always together.
Their favorite song, fittingly, is “Always,” with its refrain: ‘I’ll be loving you, always.’ For Maxine, it sums up their story. Through all the decades of marriage, raising a family, weathering wars, and building a life on the Central Coast, Maxine says their faith has been the steady foundation beneath it all, “We are very grateful for our relationship with God, for it has always helped.”
CAMILLE DEVAUL for Morro Bay Life
Riley and Maxine Elkins share a kiss on their wedding day, Aug. 23, 1945, where they got married in Carson City, Nevada. Photo courtesy of the Elkins Family
Riley and Maxine Elkins enjoy an afternoon at Eberle Winery in Paso Robles. Photo courtesy of the Elkins Family
Riley and Maxine Elkins, who are about to celebrate their 80th wedding anniversary, spend some time with their great-granddaughter, who carries on Riley’s name as her middle name. Photo courtesy of the Elkins Family
SEPTEMBER
ECHO’S LONG WALK HOME
Calendar of Events
Downtown Atascadero
AUGUST 25 – SEPTEMBER 15
‘EVERYDAY COMMON THINGS,’ BRUSHSTROKES 2025 & OFF THE WALL EXHIBITS
Art Center Morro Bay
835 Main St, Morro Bay
Explore three dynamic exhibits: MBAA’s members-only “Everyday Common Things,” transforming the ordinary into art; Brushstrokes 2025, a California-wide juried painting show; and “Off the Wall,” a Central Coast Sculptors showcase.
SEPTEMBER 6
12TH ANNUAL BREW AT THE ZOO
Central Coast Zoo
5-8pm
Enjoy craft beer, spirits, live music, and fun contests at Brew at the Zoo! Dress as a “Party Animal” for a chance to win prizes and take home a glass.
SEPTEMBER 11
WOMAN OF INFLUENCE NORTH COUNTY LUNCHEON
Springhill Suites by Marriott
900 El Camino Real, Atascadero
11:30am-1:30pm
Celebrate three extraordinary women nominated from our North County community for the Women Of Influence North County (wINC) program.
6370 Atascadero Ave, Atascadero
10am-2pm
Join us for a day of community, fun, BBQ music and more as we walk together to raise awareness for ECHO and those we serve throughout our community.
SEPTEMBER 21
SALTY SURF COMEDY PREMIERE + NORTH SHORE SCREENING
Bay Theater, Morro Bay
Doors 3:30pm | Show 4pm
Local filmmaker Josh Martin premieres his short surf comedy Salty, followed by the 1987 cult classic North Shore. Includes a raffle benefiting the Morro Bay High School Surf Team with prizes from local businesses.
SEPTEMBER 22–28
CENTRAL COAST TENNIS CLASSIC
Templeton Tennis Ranch
345 Championship Ln, Templeton
The Central Coast Tennis Classic hosts top women’s tennis with 68 matches, plus community events including clinics, school days, and exhibits. More information can be found at centralcoasttennisclassic.com
SEPTEMBER 26
FALL SIP & SHOP WALK DOWNTOWN
5:30-8pm
Sip & Shop in Downtown Atascadero features 20+ stops with wine, cider, beer, and treats — perfect for sipping, shopping, and strolling! Tickets at atascaderochamber.org
September 27-28
9TH ANNUAL SHOWDOWN
CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT
Sunken Gardens, Atascadero
All ages and skill levels are welcome to play at the annual cornhole tournament.
OCTOBER EVENTS
OCTOBER 4
ROTARY DUCKY DERBY
Galley Restaurant Inlet 899 Embarcadero, Morro Bay
7:30–9:30am
Cheer on thousands of rubber duckies racing for a cause at the 5th Annual Rotary Ducky Derby! $10 per duck with chances to win cash prizes up to $1,000.
OCTOBER 11
WAYNE COOPER MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
Chalk Mountain Golf Course, Atascadero 7am
Support LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero while enjoying a fantastic day on the greens. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, this event promises
friendly competition, great prizes, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in our community.
MORRO BAY MARITIME FAMILY FUN DAY
Morro Bay Maritime Museum 1210 Embarcadero, Morro Bay 10am–4pm
Celebrate Morro Bay’s maritime heritage with a day of fish painting, knot tying, sandcastle building, fishing games, Coast Guard exhibits, food, and family fun.
OCTOBER 24-25
ZOO BOO
Central Coast Zoo, Atascadero
4:30-7:30pm
The event promises Halloween-themed adornments all around the Zoo, along with a medley of carnival games, a costume competition, Halloween-themed undertakings, a haunted house, and a collection of tricks and treats to relish. With over 200 residents the Central Coast Zoo is the backdrop for this engaging and unforgettable Halloween celebration.
OCTOBER 25
WITCHES & WARLOCKS PADDLE
COLEMAN PARK
101 Coleman Dr, Morro Bay
Take to the water in your best witch or warlock costume for this annual spooky paddle. Open to the public—bring your broomsticks (boards and kayaks) for a ghoulish good time.
Every so often, I have the privilege of spotlighting a local organization doing incredible work, and the Estero Bay Kindness Coalition is one of those organizations that deserves our attention and support. Mission: to end childhood hunger and support families in need through strong local partnerships.
The Kindness Coalition is a grassroots nonprofit making a powerful impact on the Central Coast. Each week, they deliver groceries to 325 food-insecure households—feeding over 1,300 people. 100 children receive weekend meals through the “Got Your Back” backpack program.
Make a donation, volunteer your time, and spread the word. Together, we can make a difference because Kindness Matters.
esterobaykindnesscoalition.org for information
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