Paso Robles Magazine #234 • October 2020

OCTOBER 2020

90 PIONEER DAY th

Prsrt Std US Postage PAID Permit 19 13 Stars Paso Robles CA ECRWSS

Local Postal Customer

P A S O

R O B L E S '

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: 25th Anniversary of the Assistance League History of "Leave Your Pocket Book at Home" Free Bean Feed

"I have been wearing hearing aids all my life. Peter is by far the best hearing aid specialist I have encountered. I have known him for several years. He listens to you and will meet your needs as you describe them.

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contents October 2020 | Issue No. 234

26

PIONEER DAY

90 YEARS LATER AMIDST A PANDEMIC ROBLANS REFLECT BACK ON ALL THE YEARS COMING TOGETHER TO SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY

20

Did You Know?

STORY OF THE LONGHORNS

DISCOVER THE FASCINATING STORY BEHIND THESE BOVINE GATEKEEPERS OF THE NORTH COUNTY

22

ASSISTANCE LEAGUE TURNS 25

28

LOCAL ORGANIZATION CHAPTER HAS BEEN HELPING CHILDREN FOR A QUARTER OF A CENTURY

History of ‘LEAVE YOUR POCKET BOOK AT HOME

ANNUAL PASO ROBLES TRADITION UNIFIES A COMMUNITY WHILE GIVING THANKS TO RANGERS AND FARMERS

ON THE COVER The Pioneer Day wagon is a staple of the annual parade.

Its banner promotes the date of the following year’s big celebration.

Photo courtesy of the Pioneer Day Committee

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3,300 DROPPED AT HIGH TRAFFIC LOCATIONS IN SLO COUNTY

Paso Robles 93446 • Templeton 93465 • Shandon 93461 • Bradley 93426 • San Miguel 93451 Hotels • Wineries • B&Bs • Waiting Rooms • Restaurants • High-traffic Visitor Hotspots for advertising inquiries and rates email publisher @ pasomagazine.com, or contact one of our advertising representatives.

paso robles

services October is here with the crinkle of leaves under our feet, pumpkins on the porch and a little bit of pumpkin spice everywhere we look. This month, Paso Robles Recreation Services will be providing a combination of in-person and virtual classes for all age groups. To view all of the offerings available, visit prcity.com/recreationonline.

succulent pumpkin supply kit at Centennial Park on Monday, October 26 from 6-7 p.m. $10 registration plus $25 supply fee.

Your kit will include step-by-step instructions and a link to a video to show you exactly how to make this seasonal beauty.

Pre-registration is required.

Paint & Cocoa Party: Spooky Cat & Spider Friend:

Let’s Play!: Youth Evolution Basketball is back with socially distanced outdoor skill-based basketball classes to help your child stay active and engaged. Classes are Tuesdays for five weeks, October 20 through November 17. Sessions from 3-3:45 p.m. (all ages 5-11), 3:45-4:30 p.m. (level 2 ages 5-7) or 4:30-5:20 p.m. (level 3 ages 7-11). $100/Sibling discounts available. Class size is limited and advance registration is required.

This spooky black cat and his spider friend are the featured acrylic painting this month during the Paint & Cocoa Party class series with instructor Stormy Capalare. Learn step-by-step how to create this October themed acrylic painting on canvas outdoors at Centennial Park while sipping cocoa and listening to seasonal music. Make your own independent art project or bring your child or the entire family and share a canvas to make a family creation. This class will happen on Wednesday, October 14 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. Advance registration is strongly encouraged as space is limited to ensure safe physical distancing for participants. $10 registration + $15 supply fee (per person using their own canvas). Ages 4 to adult. Family registration discounts available.

Succulent Pumpkin Centerpiece: This class was such a

huge hit last fall, that we’ve decided to give it an encore this year.

You supply the pumpkin of your choice and Creative Me Time will provide everything else for you to create this beautiful pumpkin centerpiece adorned with succulents. The process used to make these creations does not cut into the pumpkin so your centerpiece can last all through the season. These succulents can later be planted for ongoing enjoyment. Pick up your

Science-Dipity in the Park: Join science educator Tim Baker for hands-on socially distanced science enrichment that will get your kids excited about scientific principles. Choose from family classes for children ages 4-8 and their adults for 30 minutes of in-person learning Wednesdays (between 8:30 a.m. and noon) or group Science Academy classes for ages 7-11 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Wednesdays, October 14-November 4 or November 18-December 16 (no class November 25). $80/family class or $120 for Science Academy. Early bird and sibling discounts available.

Join us for these and many other October classes designed to enrich your mind, body and spirit. To learn more please visit prcity.com/recreation, call Recreation Services at (805)237-3988 or email recservices@prcity.com.

We’re excited to announce our partnership with the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District! Recreation Services will be providing free recess kits to families during meal pick-ups at various school locations beginning this month.

COMING SOON

to a School Near You!

DEPARTMENTS

Something Worth Reading

Round Town

8

Publisher’s Letter

12

It’s Happening On Main Street: Tough Times Never Last, But Tough People Do

14

Natural Alternative: Female Hormone Roller Coaster

15

The General Store: FALL: Bring It

16

Young Eagle Program: Experimental Aircraft Association

18

Surfing for Hope

20

Did You Know? The Story of the Longhorns

24

30 32

publisher, editor-in-chief

Hayley Mattson

publisher, editor-at-large

Nicholas Mattson

managing editor

Brian Williams

layout design

ad design

Michael Michaud

Denise Mclean Jen Rodman

community writer

Connor Allen

ad consultants

Dana McGraw Jamie Self

Taste Of Paso

office administrator

Sip & Savor: Celebrate #MerlotMe This Month

Cami Martin | office@pasomagazine.com

Oak Leaf

OUR NEXT ISSUE:

SLO County Office of Education: Flexibility, Patience & Kindness Directory of Local Houses of Worship

Veteran’s Day, Voting & Thanksgiving NOVEMBER 2020

PUBLICATION DELIVERY DATE

34 34

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Last Word

ADVERTISING DEADLINE* Friday, October 9, 2020

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* ad reservation deadline is the 10th of each month preceding the publication. for more information about advertising, upcoming issues and editorial themes, contact our advertising representatives above, or see our media kit at pasomagazine.com/advertise

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Editorial Policy

Commentary reflects views of our writers and not necessarily those of Paso Robles Magazine. Paso Robles Magazine is delivered free to 26,700 addresses in North San Luis Obispo County. Our costs are paid entirely by advertising revenue.

Our Local Business section spotlights select advertisers. All other stories are determined solely by our editors.

Proud to be Local!

Paso Robles Magazine ©2020 is a local business owned and published by local people — Nicholas & Hayley Mattson No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form by any means without written consent from Paso Robles Magazine.

Like and Follow us: DID YOU KNOW?

By 1940 the population of Paso had increased to over 3,000. In 1941 when the Army’s Camp Roberts opened, the population soared due to the military presence, the workers and of course the USO. By 1950 the population rose to 4,800 and by 1960 it was 6,800. In 1965 Ronald Reagan rode in the Pioneer Day Parade and announced his candidacy for Governor.

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contributors Camille DeVaul David Fretwell

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Paso Robles Magazine | October 2020

Something Worth Reading

A

utumn is one of our favorite times of the year, cool air, crisp breeze, pumpkins, falling leaves, bring on the jackets, and hot apple cider!

This year, Halloween, as with the other holidays and celebrations that have passed during the pandemic, will look different than years past. Our cherished tradition of participating in and attending the Pioneer Days Parade & Bean Feed has been canceled along with several other October events.

But as you all know, that will not stop us from celebrating! This year would have been the 90th Anniversary of Pioneer Days. In this issue, on page 26, you will read the history of the Historic Event “Leave your pockets books at home” and find out if our parade has ever been canceled before.

Along with the Parade, we share stories of our wonderful community members, non-profits, and businesses thriving amidst COVID-19 as well as our new series “Did you Know” that shares the backstory of the beautiful “Gatekeepers” of the North County along Highway 101.

We planned to have a detailed overview of all the local candidates running for the school board and city council in this issue. However, due to the limited space allotted, we could not fit all of the candidates that are running. There are 12 running for PRJUSD School Board, so make sure you get to know them!

Scan the QR code placed at the bottom corner of this page so you can read all the candidate statements and full questionnaires that will give you some insight as to why they are running and how they feel they can make a difference.

We end the magazine this month a bit differently than initially planned. Our Last Word on page 34 is written by a community member who shares her personal story that inspires and reminds us of what is truly important during these challenging and unprecedented times.

A wonderful thing you will notice this month is that we are jam-packed with ads! We cannot thank our incredible community of advertisers and patrons who read the Paso Robles Magazine, together we keep a great thing going.

Be sure to tell each of these locally owned businesses that you saw them in Paso Robles Magazine and thank them for bringing you all the stories of our community. We will be back up to our usual 54 pages soon!

Each month, we are forever grateful that each of you continues to advertise, read, and share our publication.

This has been a tough year for us all, and we could not ask to be part of a better community of people.

We do this for you, and we are humbled by all your love and support.

Please stay safe, share love, and be a good human.

Hayley & Nic

DECISION 2020 8 | pasoroblesmagazine.com

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

— Thomas Fuller, 1727

Paso Robles Magazine | October 2020

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| It’s Happening on Main Street

tough times never last

Karyl Lammers

I

But Tough People do

n these unprecedented times, it is important that we stay focused on the future of Paso Robles. The summer of 2020 will never be forgotten, we’ve faced challenges like no other time in history.

In life, the good news is nothing lasts forever. The bad news is nothing lasts forever.

Take a step back and remember just last year when The Main Street Association hosted The Vintage Sidecar Rendezvous & Recycled Treasures, The Olive Festival, The Lavender Festival, The Taste of Downtown, and The Golden Oak Honey Festival. We had fun with

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The Pancake Breakfast, an extension of The Mid-State Fair. The Golden State Classic Car Club hosted the ever-popular Car Show on Memorial Day. These were a NORMAL part of life for us, can’t wait for 2021.

Downtown has changed. We have lost some of our favorite shops, restaurants, and services due to COVID-19. It’s hard to let go on one hand, but exciting to watch with anticipation of what the future will bring.

Paso will always be a popular destination for visitors, while locals enjoy living, working, and playing here. Our population is growing due to our location, fresh air, and lifestyle. We are a clean, safe community, and that seems to be what people want.

During this “new-abnormal” Main Street has brought back Krazy Daze! It’s a “fun for all” event being held on October 18 and 19.

Shops downtown will have a bargain table in front and stay open a little later. The event will be advertised on radio and social media. It’s an opportunity for shops to make sales, and you to save money...See You There!!

It’s October...won’t it be fun if Halloween is allowed back! We’ve already got a mask. They say that if we wear these masks much longer, the next generation will think the mouth is a private part. Did you see the evening news when it was announced that a store robber was on the run? They showed a picture of him in a mask and a hoodie and asked if anyone recognized him, call the local authorities...really???

Daylight Savings Time is November 1, set ’em back! Short dark days ahead.

October 12 is Columbus Day, celebrating his arrival to America in 1492. He is a 15th Century man on trial in the 21st century.

In closing, let’s go out of our way to SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES!!

Some, like our Theatre, NEED TO OPEN. Contact our Supervisors, Congressmen, anyone you can think of and let them know we want our businesses back!! Normal is a few decisions away...we need to be a Voice!!!!

Tough Times Never Last, But Tough People do!!! 

Paso Robles Magazine | October 2020

October 2020 | Paso Robles Magazine

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THE NATURAL ALTERNATIVE NUTRITION CENTER

female hormone roller coaster

Y

ou’re cranky, tired & bloated.

You crave salt and chocolate and say things you later regret.

You are gaining weight despite eating salads and exercising. What’s going on?

The overwhelming stress of juggling multiple roles—career, wife, mother, volunteer, etc. leaves many women feeling depleted. Combine stress and maybe a bit too much sugar and caffeine in the diet will affect that delicate hormonal balancing act.

This can result in erratic cycles, mood swings, cravings, insomnia, hot flashes – get the picture? Rather than “symptom treat,” is there a way to return to feeling more energetic and balanced?

Yes! Let’s start with your diet ladies. I know you love your mocha frapps and double stuffed oreos, but changes will need to be made here. Diet is foundational. Without eating healthy whole foods, i.e. organic proteins, healthy fats, lots of veggies and fresh fruit your body at some point will rebel! Adrenal support is essential such as Ashwagandha, Ginseng, Holy Basil, etc. (we discussed those in our August article). As the adrenals are your backup system for hormone production, it’s important to give them some love! It’s also important to schedule some fun downtime during the week for that

much needed battery recharge!

If you’d like to schedule a personal consultation to discuss any issues relating to hormones (pre or post-menopause), I have a plan that will help you feel like you are back in control of your life! Hormone replacement therapy is a quick fix for most, but not without risks. As a holistic practitioner, I believe making some dietary changes, as well as supplementing with some time-honored herbs and nutrients, can be effective in most cases.

AM/PM PeriMenopause & AM/PM Menopause These two formulas are customer favorites! AM/PM PeriM helps relieve symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, mood swings, occasional sleeplessness, and night sweats. AM/ PM Menopause focuses a bit more on hot flashes and night sweats but also helps relieve the symptoms mentioned above. We actually have husbands come in to refill this formula when the wife runs out! Both formulas on sale 20% off during the month of October!

October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know endocrine disruptors found in personal care products can contribute to breast cancer? Shop The Natural Alternative for clean and safe natural deodorants & skin/hair care!!

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE DIAGNOSIS, PRESCRIPTION OR TREATMENT AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE USED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL COUNSELING WITH A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

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Paso Robles Magazine | October 2020

FALL: BRING IT

O

ctober: the leaves on the trees in the downtown park give us permission to CUE AUTUMN as they curl in gold and red and fall to the ground.

We love Fall, but don’t think we have ever yearned for it like we do this year. Normally its early arrival is the joke of the season, but we snorted with laughter when Jillian shared a video that shrieked, “Give us our Pumpkin Spiced Latte! It’s all we have left!!!

So, for Fall 2020, we went for it. It felt like we all needed a reset, a fresh season, a reclaiming of our homes, and our general vibe through the end of this wacko year.

Apple pie spice, locally made cider mix, and more candles than we have ever brought in, ever, from over half a dozen small makers we’ve discovered this year. We’re talking cinnamon chai to spicy apple to eucalyptus rain, baby.

Maple vinegar, beer pretzel mix, local pomegranate jam, chrysanthemum incense, pastry rolling pins...You want to change the mood or brighten a friend’s day?

We’ve got you. It’s a Fall like no other, but we’re in a community like no other, and that makes it a little better.

We leave you with a kick-off to the season, courtesy of our beloved Yes Cocktail Co. Big air hugs to you, neighbors, The Team at General Store Paso Robles Hot Buttered Rum Mix Popcorn (* alcohol-free) • Take ¼ cup kernels (we’ve got the Amish Country non-GMO Rainbow Blend in 2 lb bags) • Pop on the stove. In a separate small pot, melt quarter cup Yes Cocktail Co. Hot Buttered Rum mix with 1 tablespoon water • Heat on low/medium until sugar dissolves and bubbles • Remove from heat, mix in the popcorn, and enjoy!

Side Note: Best Pumpkin Latte of all time: Spearhead!

OPEN FOR BUSINESS! Curbside service available.

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Paso Robles 1171 Creston Rd. # 109 805-369-2811 San Luis Obispo 1336 Madonna Road 805-544-5400

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October 2020 | Paso Robles Magazine

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| Community

PASO ROBLES’

Experimental Aircraft Association

T

he mission of the Paso Robles Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is to grow participation in aviation within our community and promote the airport by involving adults and youth in aviation activities with homebuilt, experimental, antique, classic, warbird, aerobatic, ultralight, general aviation, and unmanned aircraft.

YOUNG EAGLE PROGRAM On October 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., we will be providing our annual free flights for youth between 8-17 years of age at the Airport Terminal. Follow-up activities are planned (i.e., aviation day camp), and several young eagles have won scholarships to obtain a private pilot license. To register for the free flight on October 17 go to youngeaglesday.org/.

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By Dave Fretwell, President EAA 465

ADULT EAGLE PROGRAM We are planning a half-day “introduction to aviation” event at the Airport on November 7 for adults who might want to consider gaining a pilot license. After this event, adults can schedule a free flight, have access to several related benefits, and of course, can become members of our Chapter.

EXISTING PILOTS AND AVIATION ENTHUSIASTS We have various activities, including our regular meeting with aviation programs/speakers at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at the Airport Terminal. We are: (1) initiating a Visual Metrological Conditions (VMC) Club for pilots who want to hone their flying skills in VMC, (2) bi-monthly member “fly outs” to interesting places (i.e., a recent one to Catalina Island), and

(3) fly-ins/speakers to promote our airport to other aviators and aircraft type clubs including an October 11 event for EAA chapters from Southern and Central California, and recent fly-ins for Taylorcraft, Lancair, and Mooney aircraft owners). 

For more information about EAA Chapter 465, visit our web site https:// chapters.eaa.org/eaa465 or follow us on Facebook facebook.com/EAAchapter465/. Due to the COVID-19, all participants in Chapter Activities must wear face coverings.

Paso Robles Magazine | October 2020

October 2020 | Paso Robles Magazine

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| Waves of Hope

Surfing for Hope was created to help inspire people challenged by cancer through the positive energy of surfing.

T

he Surfing for Hope Foundation team recently unveiled plans for their firstever Survivor Surf Camp to take place on Saturday, October 10.

Established in 2012, the Surfing for Hope Foundation (SFH) was created to help ease the difficulty of battling cancer through the healing powers of surfing and ocean life. The original event, the Surfing for Hope Longboard Surf Contest and Benefit Auction in 2012, was inspired by cancer survivor ‘Helmet’ Bob Voglin

5955 Entrada Ave. Atascadero Open Monday - Saturday

as a charity event to help return the support he received during his own struggle.

Bob partnered with his oncologist, Tom Spillane MD, and others to help offer cancer patients’ financial support on the central coast. Over the years, through their annual surf contest, they have raised over $200,000 for the Hearst Cancer Resource Center, along with many other additional programs to help support those affected by cancer.

“With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we decided to make this camp open to women only,” Dr. Spillane shared.

The Foundation members made the tough decision to postpone their popular annual surf contest and benefit weekend due to the pandemic and are proud to bring this series of cancer survivor small group summits to the community with a strong commitment to practice COVID-19 distancing guidelines.

This unique event will be on the shores of Pismo Beach and is open to women currently undergoing treatment or those who have completed their cancer treatment, as well as oncology health care providers. A day of yoga, beginner surf instruction similar to the SFH Pure Stoke Youth Program, and a gourmet

luncheon will be provided free of charge to all participants.

In addition, Dr. Spillane will lead a brief discussion on survivorship, including an update on breast cancer treatments and resources. This talk is open to the public, and registration to the retreat is not required to participate.

“As a volunteer for Surfing for Hope, I have seen first-hand how this camp brings so much hope,” said Lee Walton-Poepoe, a breast cancer survivor. As the SLO Oncology & Cancer Care clinical trial director, she encourages those that are facing cancer challenges to sign up and participate, “I want to see all of my fellow women cancer survivors join this camp because of the healing power of the ocean is just amazing. Feel free to sign up with a girlfriend or two; they do not have to be a survivor themselves to join us.”

Due to the importance of safe social distancing, spots are limited, and early registration is encouraged. Find complete details on this unique opportunity to join other women for an informative and fun-filled day at surfingforhope.org/womens-cancer-survivor-camp.

Additional activities and camps for all people who have been affected by cancer will be announced in the months ahead. Please visit surfingforhope.org for more information. 

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pasoroblesmagazine.com | 19

| Gatekeepers to the North County The Story Behind the

ID YOU •D K

KNOW • D OU

W

YOU KNO ID

Texas Longhorns?

By Connor Allen

W • DID Y NO

F

or the better part of two decades, one prominent, iconic feature frequently turns heads when one makes the trek from the North County down to San Luis Obispo, yet nobody knows much about them. In the morning, the sun glistens off their faces.

At night, they are painted in a dark silhouette standing as an emblematic, subtle reminder of the differences of personalities and climate when you travel over the Grade.

Interestingly we found out the story behind the Longhorns began back in 2003. The owner of the herd of longhorns that can be seen off Highway 101 on the south side of the freeway wishes to remain anonymous but shared the reasons for the colossal cattle.

The herd was purchased for two main reasons. First, to graze the land to prevent fire danger to the region and

be unique and something to look at for those that drive by.

“I would love for the story to inspire people to do more things that just make the Earth beautiful and wonderful,” the owner said. “If you can do it, then why wouldn’t you do that. It is true, I could have bought Angus or anything and let them live there, and no one would ever notice them because they would look like every other steer you drive by. Why not make it more fun for when you drive by.”

As you whip by on the freeway, it is hard to get a good look at the herd, which is what leads several people a day to pull over and scramble for their cameras. There are around 25 to 30 that occupy a nearly 400-acre area and, when not visible, are moved to another pen out of sight from passersby.

If you look closely, you will notice that not all of the cattle are longhorns.

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If you look even closer, you might see that of the four that aren’t longhorns; two are identical. While the herd is mostly comprised of what are commonly called Texas Longhorns, there are also four Watusi in the bunch, and two of them are identical twins, down to the spots.

The two behemoth bovine breeds look very similar, especially when zooming by at 70 mph. The best way to tell them apart is by looking at their iconic horns. The Watusi horns are thicker and look as if they sit as a u-shaped crown atop the head. The longhorns horns, which can get up to 10 feet from tip to tip, appear more as if they come out of the side of the skull.

The longhorn’s life span is around 20 years, which is why there are now calves also living among the herd. The original matriarch of the group, Etta, who was actually a Watusi, passed

away in 2019, and as the herd grows older, younger calves are bought and added to keep them going strong.

The Longhorns are only purchased as calves and raised by the group. There is no bull in the herd.

While the longhorns are the only animals visible from the freeway, they are not the only unique mammals on the property. Tucked away from the freeway and predators, sit additional pens with more fun animals like alpacas, llamas, donkeys, and horses that have all been rescued.

Aside from their immense appetite, longhorns are also incredibly hardy. They can endure the hottest of temperatures and brave the elements while drinking little to no water for days at a time. With a substantial herd, they can protect themselves from predators without intervention from the outside world. In a way, they are the perfect gatekeepers to North County.

In spirit, they personify the gritty hard-working nature of the people within Atascadero and Paso Robles and remind those entering or leaving that we can be regal, too. 

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Paso Robles Magazine | October 2020

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DOING WHAT THEY

L VE For the past 25 years, the Assistance League of San Luis Obispo County has been helping children

By Brian Williams

T

he Assistance League of San Luis Obispo County is celebrating 25 years as a chapter. For a quarter of a century now, its members have been doing something they love — helping children.

"We had a wonderful group of women in the Guild, who worked as a 'team' with the sole purpose of forming Assistance League of San Luis Obispo County," said founding board member Barbie Butz, of Atascadero. "Now, here we are 25 years later, looking back at our chapter and thanking you for your membership and for believing in what we do for our communities and our children."

Barbie was the SLO chapter's first president, serving in that capacity for nearly three months. It received chapter status in March of 1996.

Assistance League of SLO County's roots goes back to 1991 when it was first a "Guild." On November 21, 1991, the Assistance Guild of San Luis Obispo County, a future chapter of the National Assistance League, was formed with 32 active members from throughout the county.

The first board of directors of the Guild included President Caroline Craven, Vice President Membership Kathy Metcalf, Vice President Philanthropic Projects Linda Breshears; Assistant Vice President Philanthropic Projects Barbie Butz, Vice President Fundraising Claryce Knupper, Corresponding Secretary Camilla Colgrave, Recording Secretary Gladys Fiske, Treasurer Bonnie Gromacki, and Guild Liaison Anne Slocum.

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Caroline was Guild president for two years in 1991-92 and 1992-93, Gladys followed in 1993-94, and Barbie was president in 1994-95 and 1995-96.

"During the five years of building the chapter, we met in private homes, the school cafeteria at Teach School, the San Luis Obispo Library, Pacific Kitchen and Bath (owned by the Metcalfs) where we sat on everything in the display room, including the demonstration toilets and bathtubs," Barbie shared.

Later on, they met at San Luis Jr. High and in the Board Room of the San Luis Coastal Unified School District.

Organizational support from the National Assistance League came from Guild Advisor Joan Kidder, a member of the Assistance League of Santa Barbara and the NAL Director of Extension and Linda Kilmer, a member of the Assistance League of Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Barbara Offerman, also a member of the Assistance League of Santa Barbara, joined Joan on her Guild visits and added much to the Guild's formation, Barbie recalled.

Like many of the members, Barbie had been part of Assistance League chapters in other cities before relocating to the Central Coast.

"I knew Joan and Barbara well from my League days when I lived in Santa Barbara," Barbie said.

During our forming years, the Assistance Guild of San Luis Obispo County worked hard to meet the

requirements to become a chapter.

NAL required membership of 50.

When SLO received its charter, it had 51 members. They also needed to have Operation School Bell, a philanthropic project, a fundraiser, by-laws, and an annual meeting. A Taste of Art was their initial fundraiser.

After meeting the NAL requirements, "in May of 1996, we held a chartering celebration at the Madonna Inn where National Assistance League President Lorene Jaross presented us with our Chapter Link for the NAL Chain, making us the 95th Chapter of Assistance League," Barbie said.

Gladys was chapter president for two terms, 1996-97 and 1997-98, and Anna Aven served one term following her. Barbie was president once again in 1999-2000 and 2000-2001.

Today, Helen Robertson of Paso Robles is president of the SLO chapter.

OPERATION SCHOOL BELL Operation School Bell is the main philanthropic program of the Assistance League of San Luis Obispo County. The program helps clothe children at the start of the school year.

"When our chapter was formed 25 years ago, as a first effort, the members were able to provide gently-used clothing to 300 children in our County," Helen said. "They washed, mended, and ironed so that these students could go to school in properly fitting clothing."

In order to move the program toward providing new clothing, the SLO chapter needed to begin fundraising. And so began the second arm of the chapter, raising funds so that they could not only provide new clothing but do it for more children.

"As an all-volunteer organization, we depend on our members to do everything it takes to dress these students. Our members love doing just that," Helen said.

Every year their goal is to dress more students in need. This past school year, over 2,200 students were provided new clothes through the local program. Students are assigned a time to shop for new clothes at Kohl's in Paso Robles and Old Navy in SLO. Assistance League members assist the children.

San Luis Obispo County currently has approximately 35,000 students in its ten school districts from Nipomo in the south to San Miguel in the north.

"I joined as a recent retiree with a desire to make a difference for young people in need," Helen shared. "The joy I receive when working with a child when she is able to pick out that special pair of shoes or he gets those jeans just like the other boys is so fulfilling. My heart is full each time I am able to participate in the clothing sessions."

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted their fundraising efforts as it led to some events being canceled.

Fortunately, their "Warm Your Heart...Clothe a Child" campaign will not be affected as people can support it through their website at alslocounty.org.

ASSISTANCE LEAGUE THRIFT STORE Another significant cog for the SLO chapter is its thrift store at 667 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.

The Assistance League Thrift Store opened April 1, 2015, and was the former Chapter President's brainchild, Gail Stoneburg.

She developed a business plan and, subsequently, the chapter began holding small sessions with our members before the final decision was made to proceed to make sure everyone realized the magnitude of the undertaking. Stoneburg found the location and was the store's first manager.

"We are extremely proud of the fact that to this day, it is staffed entirely by our member volunteers who work tirelessly and without pay," said Susan Pino, who became store manager in December 2018.

The store's revenue has steadily increased each year, which has allowed the chapter to continue to serve more students, increase the amount of money that is spent on each student, and spread the word to customers about the chapter's various programs.

Over 90 percent of the organization's generated revenue goes to Operation School Bell.

Susan has been a member since 2012. Her husband is a Pal of Assistance League.

"Since I have joined the Assistance League, I have made many lasting friendships with other members who share the same passion and commitment to our philanthropic program," Susan said. "We have so many stories to share about the wonderful children and families we have served throughout the years. It has been a fun yet very humbling experience for me." ď Ž

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MerlotMe This Month

#

M

Celebrate

erlot is not lying low anymore. If the #MerlotMe movement has anything to do with it, the once much-maligned variety will rise like a phoenix.

The month-long ode to merlot, kicking off in October, is in its eighth year, originally launched by Napa Valley’s Duckhorn family, known for its high-end luxury merlot. The movement has evolved into a global phenomenon with merlot now gaining some well-deserved respect.

To get a grip on Paso merlot, I rounded up few local merlot producers for a tasting hosted by Steve and Jackie Gleason at their Four Lanterns Winery. In the scenic garden, seated at safe distances, I joined Angie Lazarre (Lazarre Wines), Joe Barton (Barton Family Wines & Grey Wolf), Chris Cameron (Broken Earth), and Steve Peck (J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines).

The winemakers shared their wines alongside other Paso varietal merlots and merlot-driven blends, wines that were velvety, expressing a dazzling spectrum of flavors rocking with red fruit flavors, shades of mint and cedar combined with smooth tannins —

24 | pasoroblesmagazine.com

hallmarks of the variety. The tasting also included a selection from Napa, Sonoma, and Washington State, all ranging in vintages from 2015-2018.

So is merlot now trending?

“The younger generation is into it now, it’s new to them,” said Barton.

“We were deep in merlot back in the 1990s, then ‘Sideways’ happened,” he recalled. Barton’s appropriately named Stayin’ Alive, a food-friendly approachable merlot, is a throwback to the iconic 1977 Bee Gees song as well as a nod to merlot’s staying power.

Peck weighed in that indeed, there has been a shakeup in recent years.

“Plantings were in inappropriate locations — glad they were pulled out,” he commented on the glut of merlot over a decade ago. “People making merlot now are dedicated to showing the variety.” As for the consumer, he noted that they are looking for bright fruit and aromatics that merlot offers.

Inspired by Bordeaux’s three regions, Pomerol, Pauillac, and Saint-Estèphe, J. Lohr produces POM, PAU, and St. E in its Cuvée series. The garnet-hued POM 2018

we sampled is an age-worthy wine luxuriating in a symphony of cherries and blackberries with a smooth finish.

Lazarre Wines released its first merlot a decade back. The 2017 vintage we tasted was proof that Adam Lazarre can coax the best out of this variety, a merlot that is seductive with ripe blackberries coupled with smooth tannin.

Four Lanterns’ Right Bank merlot and Sardius, a merlot-forward blend, both flexing a lush mouthfeel, have steady customers. “There’s the ‘Sideways’ effect, but we’ve had no problem,” Steve Gleason commented.

Broken Earth’s fruit-forward merlot, too, has a loyal following.

However, Cameron admitted that it takes a bit of courage to market merlot. “It takes on a personality where it’s grown, and this tasting shows it,” Cameron commented on the lineup of a more than dozen Paso merlots we tasted.

Rich Hartenberger, founder of Midnight Cellars, has been producing merlot since 1999. “It’s one of the greatest wines in the world,” he insisted, with a nod to Bordeaux’s exalted Right Bank wines. Yes, he

agreed, it’s still a hard sell “but once customers try it, they love it.”

A vertical tasting of four wines that Hartenbegrer set up in his westside winery’s garden proved Paso merlot’s age-ability, from the sublime 1999 vintage to the 2016 current release.

Merlot, whether drunk immediately or cellared, is a wine that begs for air. This was evident when I uncorked the 2017 Ancient Peaks from Santa Margarita Ranch and savored it over a three-hour time span. The wine began with lush fruit flavors and then evolved into layered textures and a lingering finish.

Donati, Ècluse, Gary Kramer Guitar Cellars, Justin, Sculpterra, Tobin James Silver Reserve, Rangeland, and Hearst Ranch Pico Creek are among others that express such delightful pleasures when opened a couple of hours before consumption.

So get on the merlot bandwagon and check out other Paso merlots from wineries such as Le Vigne, D’Anbino, Opolo, Mitchella, Bianchi, Bella Luna, Hammersky, Penman Springs, Jada, Robert Hall, Arndt Cellars, The Fableist Wine Co., Bon Niche and more. 

Paso Robles Magazine | October 2020

October 2020 | Paso Robles Magazine

pasoroblesmagazine.com | 25

P A S O

R O B L E S '

PIONEER DAY

90

O

By Camille DeVaul

n October 12, 1931, Paso Robles businesses came together for the first time to celebrate and give thanks to their farmers and ranchers for what became the first annual Pioneer Day Parade.

And now, 90 years later, Paso Roblans will still come together on the second Saturday of October to support their community.

But this year’s Pioneer Day will look a little different. In light of the COVID-19 Pandemic, there will be no Pioneer Day Parade or Bean Feed.

Instead, the Pioneer Day Parade Committee encourages “everyone to visit our local merchants and businesses on what would have been our 90th year, on October 10. Please continue to support them through this difficult time and make this a day of remembering those who came before us and started this event.”

This year marks the 90th Pioneer Day Anniversary, and it is the second, no wait, the surprisingly fourth time the event has been canceled.

In 1942, after the United States entered World War II, Paso Robles canceled its Pioneer Day festivities. Paso didn’t celebrate it’s pioneers again until 1945 with Gene Booth as chairman of the committee.

But Paso Roblans are a strong group of people. They know how to push on. One could say this is because Paso Robles was pioneered by some “tough nuts.”

During the 1930s, Paso was known as “Almond City” or the “Almond Capital of the World.” But before that, Paso Robles and its surrounding areas were built by tenacious homesteaders. Many of whom’s lineage still call Paso home.

Since the parade’s debut in 1931, the Pioneer Day committee has named a Grand Marshal, a Queen, and a Belle to be honored during the festivities.

Marshalls, Queens, and Belles are named based on lineage and other connections to Paso Robles and its surrounding communities. The

26 | pasoroblesmagazine.com

th Anniversary Queen and her Grand Marshal are typically a pioneer gentleman and lady in their eighties or above. Many of these ladies and gentlemen have also been past Paso Roblans of the year.

Sam Eddy was Paso’s first Marshal with Ann Casper leading as the town’s first Belle. A queen was not added to the “royal court” until the following year in 1932, named Jennie Wiley as Paso Robles’s first queen.

This year the committee named Tom Flynn of Paso Robles as Marshal and Irene Marquart of Templeton as Queen for Pioneer Day 2020.

A Belle is chosen each year along with her Belle attendees. Attendants represent different Paso Robles areas, which vary year to year.

Areas often represented include Monterey Road, San Miguel, Parkfield, Carissa Plains, Shandon, Linne Township, Creston, Paso Robles, and more.

Unfortunately, this year there are no chosen belles.

The creation of Pioneer Day goes back to a Reverend Charles L. Thackeray, or Dean Thackeray. Appointed vicar at St. James in 1921, the Reverend came from Utah. Later, around 1931, Dean Thackeray noticed a growing division between town and country residents.

Inspired by an event held by his previous church in Utah thanking farmers, he created a similar event for his new home in Paso Robles.

Being the epicenter for surrounding communities from Adelaide to Carissa Plains, Paso would make it the perfect location for Reverend Thackeray’s vision.

Thus, Pioneer Day was born, and Thackeray insisted residents to “leave your pocketbook at home.”

Reverend Thackeray went on to be the parade committee chairman from 1931-1934.

Jared Brush says, “Rev. Thackeray for the original Pioneer Day, has since become the official watch-word of the annual October 12 event.

It was to be more than “just another” celebration. The principle

Paso Robles Magazine | October 2020

behind Pioneer Day was primarily to show goodwill- a modern interpretation by a small community of the original Thanksgiving Day”.

A newspaper clipping from the Daily Telegram of Paso Robles dated October 12, 1936, described the pavement being lined with cars and dirt roads next to it full of horsemen and women all heading north to Paso’s sixth annual Pioneer Day. Families have been making memories at the parade since its start.

Frank Mecham, Paso Robles’s first elected mayor from 20002008, always looked at Pioneer Day as Paso’s own Thanksgiving.

“I looked at it as a way that we thank everybody for participating.

From the business standpoint,” said Mecham, “by outlying farmers and ranchers, and it was basically our Thanksgiving for what we have.”

Some of Mecham’s fondest memories of Pioneer Day are riding in the parade with his grandson Nick. Another was being the MC when his granddaughter Mattie Work was named the Pioneer Day Belle.

Bob Tullock, 2018 Pioneer Day Grand Marshal, remembers one of his relatives favorite Pioneer Day events, “One of my relatives told me about, and I wasn’t if he was pulling my leg or what—about ten years after that I had two other old-timers around here, and I

said something about Model-T racing, and they said ‘oh that was the most fun, but they quit that.’”

After a few years of Model-T cars flying into pedestrians and buildings, the event was shockingly canceled.

Many Paso Roblans are saddened to see the cancelation of Pioneer Day this year.

During its start in 1931 and even now, the event still brings people together from the town’s outskirts to inland and everywhere in between. Many of whom may only get to see each other on this day every year.

George Work of Hog Canyon, “I really believe in Pioneer Day. It’s an incredible legacy to leave or to have in a town like Paso

October 2020 | Paso Robles Magazine

Robles—It takes a lot of work, undercover, so to speak, to put these things together”.

For many, it’s a day to relive old Paso. A day to remember the small cow town that once housed outlaw Jesse James himself.

And Paul Viborg, “Pioneer Day is one of those special days that we can celebrate good old-fashioned Americana, right here in our hometown. Take a look at the tractors, the horses”.

But to reiterate, Paso Robles was founded and pioneered by strong individuals. Pioneer Day itself was founded just two years after the stock market crash of 1929. America saw a staggering unemployment rate of 16.3% in 1931, and as a result, car manu-

facturers were failing left and right.

So, if we could make through multiple economic failures, a World War among numerous other wars, and countless other tragedies, it is entirely possible we could make it through the world’s current duress.

The Pioneer Day Parade Committee is now looking forward to next year: “Rest assured as we begin preparing for our 91st celebration, next year, the Paso Robles Pioneer Day Committee is dedicated to putting on our best Parade yet, scheduled for October 9, 2021.”

I can’t wait to see you all at next year’s Pioneer Day and the 100th. 

pasoroblesmagazine.com | 27

P I O N E E R D AY

BEAN FEED

By Camille DeVaul

O

ctober 12, 1931, amid a depression, the people of Paso Robles gathered around their downtown city park for what would be the first Pioneer Day Parade and Bean Feed.

Reverend Dean Thackeray noticed a growing divide between Paso Robles townsmen and their country folk.

Inspired by a similar event from his previous home in Utah, Rev. Thackeray brought his community together to create what would later be known as Paso Robles Pioneer Day. It was a day to give thanks to Paso’s farmers and ranchers.

“Leave your pocketbook at home,” said Reverend Thackeray.

And so they did. Businesses closed, and people came into town from every nook and cranny. And an annual Paso Robles tradition was born.

Volunteers made enough beef stew to feed an army.

Bob Tullock, a previous Grand Marshal in the Pioneer Day Parade, “I forget who donated the beef for it, but the story at that time was one of the ranchers in the area donated the beef and said ‘well if this goes on three or four years I’ll probably donate some of my beef instead of going over and russlin’ someone else.’”

Well, this unknown rancher was in luck, because after two years, the

Pioneer Day committee started serving King City Pink Beans.

And to this day, they still do.

The preparation for the bean feed begins in August. All 13 large cooking pots are pulled out and inspected for damage.

Then the beans are ordered from King City, triple cleaned. Have you ever cleaned hundreds of pounds of beans for dirt and rocks? As someone with a lot of experience with dry beans, I can tell you, having them come to you triple cleaned is a godsend.

On the Thursday leading up to the big feed, the city’s water crew steam cleans all of the cooking pots.

The beans used to be cooked over a wood fire until the 1970s. The sand was laid down, and cooking pots were sat on a rack so the fires could be stoked continuously. Then the bean crew switched to using propane burners. Propane is then donated by PROPANE CO. Rather than soaking and then cooking, the dry beans don’t hit the water until the morning of Pioneer Day. The beans are put into the pots, covered with water, and start cooking by 6 a.m. and are done by 10:30 a.m. Because the beans are purchased fresh from the latest harvest and are a smaller variety, they cook in just a few hours.

A crew of about 15 people volunteer to cook and serve the beans on Pioneer

Day. Volunteers come from the Lions Club, Boy Scout Troop 60, firefighters, and anyone else who wants to pitch in.

David Kudija was drafted three years ago as head of the beans. He got his bean experience from helping Boy Scout Troop 60 with their Mother’s Day Meal in a Box, which served 300 pounds of beans a year.

“It’s a whole of us that makes it happen—it’s been fun,” says David.

His bean predecessor Larry Eastwood, former longtime owner of Vic’s Cafe, was in charge of beans for over 40 years.

Larry, a lifetime member of the Lions Club, was given the recipe and told to take over.

Larry enjoyed the camaraderie of the day. Paso was a small-town community where everyone knew each other. Families set up picnics in the park, brought fried chicken and all the fixings. Everyone came up with their little pot to get beans back to the picnic blanket.

The man in charge of beans before Larry was none other than Camp Robert’s Staff Sergeant Victor B. Buckley. Victor, or Vic, opened Vic’s Cafe in 1942 with his wife, Lorna.

And at some point, he became Staff Sergeant of the Bean Feed.

The bean recipe has been passed down and tweaked here and there throughout the years. There’s no special ingredient, no fancy tricks: just beans, seasoning, and some good company.

Many memories have been made with these little beans being an underestimated side dish.

Frank Mecham, former and first elected mayor of Paso Robles, remembers, “When I was a kid, I lived down on Pine Street, 15th and Pine, and our job was to always go up to the park and take a pot and get some beans, come home and have a bbq.”

This year is the Pioneer Day’s 90th anniversary, and sadly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be no annual bean feed and parade.

The only other time Pioneer Day and the Bean Feed were canceled was from 1942-1944, during World War II. But considering the Pioneer Day and Bean Feed were born amid tragedy, it is entirely possible that we will make it through the world’s current trials and tribulations. 

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pasoroblesmagazine.com | 29

| Education

Flexibility, Patience and Kindness

Dr. James J. Brescia, Ed.D

COUNTY SUPERVISOR OF SCHOOLS

T

his academic year I am starting with a focus on flexibility, patience, and kindness. Our country is dealing with a pandemic, hurricanes, fires, economic challenges, political strife, and general stress. When we join together in collaboration and sincere compassion, we are better humans.

Winston Churchill said, “All the great things are simple, and many can be expressed in a single word: freedom, justice, honor, duty, mercy, hope.�

Despite the challenges we all face because of COVID-19, it has been positive to see students back at school this fall. The enthusiastic energy and dedication are evident even though we cannot see the smiles in-person.

30 | pasoroblesmagazine.com

We learned a great deal from the nearly instant transition to virtual learning last spring, and our schools are better prepared this fall to deliver distance learning.

The beginning of any school year is one of invention, imagination, excitement, and possibility. This year is no different, except we have a blend of anxiety and caution to consider.

The daily news, political unrest, social issues of race, and equity all cause stress. There is no roadmap for the complications we face this year, and we must remember the three words, flexibility, patience, and kindness.

When I taught middle school, my students and I held a class meeting at the beginning of each term and completed agreed-upon social norms for the classroom expectations. This clarification of expectations allowed us to move forward positively with mutual respect. I ask that we all consider a set of expectations that include flexibility, patience, and kindness in all of our actions as we move

forward.

A higher purpose calls us together as members of a family, school, or community. We have a stake in both our individual and collective wellbeing. How we treat each other in times of stress is sometimes more telling than how we treat each other during less stressful times. Recognizing that the individual choices we make have a direct impact on those around us can reframe our sense of obligation for others. Each of us has the power to extend goodwill as we join together in community.

We can uplift each other with some simple suggestions, such as assuming positive intention, listening to understand, and speaking to be understood. Therapists indicate that when we put some of these techniques into action during times of stress, our long-term wellbeing is enhanced. Now is the time to work together to create our best possible future.

We must face the challenges that

confront us by leaning into one another for comfort and encouragement.

Consistent communication and checking for understanding are vital when we cannot read social and body language cues because of COVID-19.

Sprinkle a little joy into your Zoom and online conversations. Between the stress of this pandemic and recent civil unrest, compassion is a critical component in harmony. One of my personal goals is to remember that when I have a choice between having the last word or being kind, I choose kind.

Our community has stepped up and shifted how we do business to accommodate our current reality. The innovation, perseverance, and grace I have seen so many in our county demonstrate is genuinely remarkable. The willingness to revisit how we do things will be the hallmark of this new school year. It is an honor to serve as your county superintendent of schools. Thank You, San Luis Obispo County! ď Ž

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DIRECTORY of LOCAL HOUSES of WORSHIP The following listing of area houses of worship is provided by the partnership between Adelaide Inn and PASO Magazine. We hope to include all houses of worship in the Paso Robles, Templeton, San Miguel, Shandon, and Bradley areas. Your congregation is welcomed to send us updates and information to make our list complete and accurate. If you have information, please send an email to publisher@pasomagazine.com or call 805-239-1533. Please include your name, address, phone, service times, and name of spiritual leader of your congregation. Thank you, and stay blessed.

ATASCADERO Awakening Ways Spiritual Community 9315 Pismo Ave. 10 a.m. at the Pavilion Rev’s Frank & Terry Zum Mallen Congregation Ohr Tzafon 2605 Traffic Way Service: Fridays, 7:30 p.m.

Rabbi Janice Mehring (805) 466-0329

CRESTON Creston Community Church 5170 O’Donovan Road Service: 9:00 a.m.

Pastor JD Megason

LOCKWOOD True Life Christian Fellowship Lockwood/Jolon Road, across from the school in Lockwood Service: 9:30 a.m.

Pastor Erick Reinstedt (805) 472-9325

NACIMIENTO Heritage Village Church At The Don Everingham Center Heritage Ranch Service: 10 a.m.

Pastor Brad Brown (805) 712-7265 Hill Top Christian Fellowship 2085 Gateway Drive Heritage Ranch Service: 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Jack Little (760) 304-2435 Oak Shores Christian Fellowship 2727 Turkey Cove Rd., at the Oak Shores Community Clubhouse Service: 8:30 a.m.

Pastor Jack Little (760) 304-2435

PASO ROBLES Apostolic Assembly of the Faith of Christ Jesus 2343 Park St Bilingual Services: Services: Thursday 7 p.m.

Sunday 2 p.m.

Pastor Miguel Alvarado (805) 610-2930 Bridge Christian Church Centennial Park Banquet Room 600 Nickerson Dr. Service: 9:30 a.m.

Pastor Tim Mensing (805) 975-7178 Calvary Chapel Paso Robles 1615 Commerce Way Service: 9:30 a.m.

Pastor Aaron Newman (805) 239-4295

Christian Life Center Assembly of God 1744 Oak St. Service Times: 10:30 a.m.

Youth Ministries: Monday 7:00 Home Groups during the week Preschool: Christian Life Early Learning Center Pastor Guy Drummond (805) 238-3366 Christian Science Services 17th & Chestnut Streets Service: 10 a.m. Sunday & 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 7 p.m.

(805) 239-1361 Church of Christ 3545 Spring St. (Corner 36th & Spring) Service: Sunday, 11 a.m.

Evangelist Bob Champion (805) 286-5875 Sam Hogan (310) 602-9516 Delbert Arthurs (805) 238-4412 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 1020 Creston Rd. Service: 9 a.m.

(805) 238-4216 Missionaries: (805) 366.2363 Covenant Presbyterian Church 1450 Golden Hill Rd. Service: 9:30 a.m.

Pastor Dan Katches (805) 238-6927 Belong Central Coast 905 Vine St. meets @ NCCF Service: Sunday 3 p.m.

Senior Leaders: Pep & Angie Robey (661) 205-7853 Family Worship Center 616 Creston Rd. Service: 10 a.m.

Pastor Patrick Sheean (805) 239-4809 First Baptist Church 1645 Park St. Pastor Michael R. Garman Services: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Discipleship 10 a.m.

(805) 238-4419 First Mennonite Church 2343 Park St. Service: 11 a.m.

Pastor Romero (805) 238-2445 First United Methodist 915 Creston Rd. Service: 11 a.m.

Pastor Josh Zulueta (805) 238-2006 Grace Baptist Church 535 Creston Rd. Service: 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Gary Barker (805) 238-3549 Highlands Church Corner S. River and Niblick 215 Oak Hill Services: 8:30, 9:45 & 11 a.m.

Pastor James Baird (805) 226-5800

Life Worth Living Church of God 620 17th St. Service: 11 a.m.

Pastor Jim Wilde (805) 238-0978

Second Baptist Church 1937 Riverside Ave. Service: 11 a.m.

Pastors: Gary Jordon (805) 238-2011

Templeton Presbyterian Church 610 S. Main St. Service: 10 a.m.

Reverend Charlie Little (805) 434-1921

Live Oak 1521 Oak St. Service: 10 a.m.

Pastor John Kaiser (805) 238-0575

St. James Episcopal Church 1335 Oak St. Services: 8 a.m. (Rite I) 10 a.m. (Rite II) Reverend Barbara Miller (805) 238-0819

Higher Dimension Church 601 Main St. 1st Sunday: 1:30 p.m.

2nd - 5th Sundays 12:30 p.m.

Pastor Charlie Reed, Jr. (805) 440-0996

St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church 820 Creston Rd. Weekday Mass: M-S, 7 a.m.

Weekend Masses: Saturday - 5 p.m. (Vigil) Sunday - 8 a.m., 10 a.m. (Family Mass) 12:30 p.m. (Spanish) 5 p.m. (Teen) & 7 p.m. (Spanish) Father Rudolfo Contreras (805) 238-2218

Life Community Church 3770 Ruth Way Service: 9:30 a.m.

Pastor Keith Newsome (805) 434-5040

Mid State Baptist Church 3770 Ruth Way Services Sunday: 1:30 & 2:30 p.m.

Wednesday: 6:30 p.m.

Pastor Bruce Fore (805) 238-2281 New Day 1228 11th St (east off Paso Robles St) Services: Sunday 10 a.m., Wednesday 7 p.m.

Pastor Brad Alford (805) 239-9998 New Life Tabernacle 3850 So. Ramada Dr. Ste. D Service: 10 a.m.

Pastor Efrain Cordero North County Christian Fellowship 421 9th St. Services: 9:30 a.m.

Pastor Steve Calagna (805) 239-3325 Paso Robles Bible Church 2206 Golden Hill Rd. Service: Sunday, 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Mark Wheeler Pastor Dave Rusco (805) 226-9670 Paso Robles Church of the Nazarene 530 12th St. Service: 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Charles Reece (805) 238-4300 www.pasonaz.com Paso Robles Community Church 2706 Spring St. Service: 9:00 a.m.

Pastor Shawn Penn (805) 239-4771 www.pasochurch.com Plymouth Congregational Church, UCC Thirteenth and Oak Streets Service: 10 a.m.

Pastor Steven Mabry (805) 238-3321 Poder de Dios Centro Familiar 500 Linne Road, Suite D Services Sunday 4:30p.m. & Wed. 7p.m.

Pastors: Frank and Isabel Diaz (805) 264-9322 / (805) 621-4199 Redeemer Baptist Church Kermit King Elementary School 700 Schoolhouse Circle Service: 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Christopher Cole (805) 238-4614

Adelaide Inn 1215 Ysabel Ave (Just off 24th near Hwy 101 and 46 East intersection) Paso Robles, 805-238-2770

Solid Rock Christian Fellowship Assembly of God 925 Bennett Way Service: 10 a.m.

Pastor Jeff Saylor (805) 434-2616

The Revival Center 3850 Ramada Dr., Ste. A-3 Service: 10 a.m.

Pastor Gabe Abdelaziz (805) 434-5170

Seventh-day Adventist Church Templeton Hills 930 Templeton Hills Rd. Services: Saturday 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Zac Page (805) 434-1710

The Light of the World Church 2055 Riverside Ave. Services: Everyday, 6 p.m.

Sundays 10 a.m. & 5 p.m.

Pastor Bonifacio Robles (612) 990-4701

Vineyard Church of Christ 601 So. Main St. Service: 10 a.m.

Evangelist: Steve Orduno (805) 610-4272

Trinity Lutheran Church 940 Creston Rd. Contemporary Service: 9 a.m.

Traditional Service: 10:45 a.m.

Sr. Pastor Dan Rowe (805) 238-3702 Victory Outreach Paso Robles 3201 Spring Street, Paso Robles Ca Services: Sunday,10:30 a.m.

Thursday, 6:30 p.m.

Pastor Pete Torres (805) 536-0035

TEMPLETON Bethel Lutheran Church 295 Old County Rd. Service: 9:30 a.m.

Pastor Amy Beveridge (805) 434-1329 Celebration Worship Center Pentecostal Church of God 988 Vineyard Drive Pastor Roy Spinks Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.

(805) 434-2424 Central Coast Center for Spiritual Living 689 Crocker St. Service: 10 a.m.

Rev. Elizabeth Rowley (805) 242-3180 Cowboy Church Family Praise & Worship 206 5th st.

Service: 10 am Pastor Vern H. Haynes Jr. 805-975-8594

Vintage Community Church 692 Peterson Ranch Road Services: 9 & 11 a.m.

Coaches: Aaron Porter, Dayn Mansfield (805) 543-0943

SAN MIGUEL Iglesia Fuente De Agua Viva 301 13th St. Services: 10 a.m. & 7 p.m.

Pastor Mike Duran (805) 467-5500 Mission San Miguel Parish 775 Mission Street Weekday Mass: 8 a.m.

Weekend Mass: Saturday: 5 p.m. English (Vigil) & 6:30 p.m. Spanish (Vigil) Sunday: 7 a.m., Noon & 6 p.m.

(Spanish) Father Eleazar Diaz, OFM (805) 467-2131

SHANDON Shandon Assembly of God 420 Los Altos Ave. Pastor Keith Richards Pastor Jim Mei (805)226-9737 Spanish Service: Sunday 5 p.m. & Thurs 7 p.m.

Pastor Mauro Jimenez

Paso Magazine P.O. Box 427 Paso Robles, CA 93447 Phone: 805-239-1533 or publisher@pasomagazine.com

October 2020 | Paso Robles Magazine

pasoroblesmagazine.com | 33

I Can No Longer Stay Silent

By Sandra Stratman

I

can no longer stay silent.

I have been mostly quiet on social media when it comes to protests, rioting, and all the horrible things we are witnessing right now. If I say something in support of Law Enforcement, I'll be told I don't support POC (which I do). If I say something in support of POC, I'll be seen as anti-law enforcement (which I'm not). But today is different. I can no longer stay silent. Today I stand up and speak out. Not for a specific race and not for a specific group of people...I stand up for all of humanity.

The quietness stopped when I read about the two L.A County Sheriff 's Deputies who were shot this past weekend. My heart sank, and tears rolled down my eyes when I heard the news as I come from a law enforcement family.

My family signed up to "protect and serve" and we are well aware of the risks. But it still hits too close to home knowing we could be the ones getting the knock on the door.

My heart sinks similarly when I hear of a suspect being shot by an officer because justified or not...a life was lost, and there is a family out there mourning that loss.

It also sinks, knowing that any

shooting by an officer, justified or not, exacerbates the issues we face, making both sides feel unsupported.

But what made this one different is the fact that a line was crossed when protesters gathered around the hospital where the deputies were being treated. They tried to break in, and they chanted, "I hope they die!" It's one thing to protest, but my God… where is our heart for humans? When an officer wrongfully shoots a person, you do not see them trying to break into the victim's house/ hospital and chant, "I hope they die!" So why is it OK for people — not even involved in the L.A deputy shooting — to show up and try to break into the hospital chanting, "I hope they die"?

As I was trying to make sense of this, I reflected on how my Cubanborn mother and Mexican-born father raised me. They came here because America was the land of opportunity. My mother worked in corporate America and later became a state-certified translator. My dad became a police officer and was involved in his community. He was respected not only for the job he had but

for treating everyone with dignity — even the bad guys. They taught us to work hard and be grateful for the opportunities given to us in the "Land of the Free." They taught us morals, respect, and dignity.

They taught us to give back to the community and get involved.

They taught us not to watch things go by but to instead make things happen.

After reflecting on how I was raised and reflecting on this weekend's tragic shooting of officers, I keep asking myself the following questions: Where did our morals go? Where did respect for humankind go? Where is our country going? Are we no longer the Land of the Free?

As parents, are we being too easy on our kids? Are we forgetting that our job as parents is to raise independent, respectful, and contributing members of society? Are we forgetting that no matter what demographic, we can all succeed?

Are we giving in to the pressures of evil that is out there because it's an easy way out? Are we talking about doing our p a r t but not

acting on it? And finally… will the riots ever stop?

I'm sad, I'm angry, and I've been in tears about this, but I came across a quote that gave me hope: "We are made for goodness.

We are made for love.

We are made for friendliness.

We are made for togetherness.

We are made for all of the beautiful things that you and I know.

We are made to tell the world that there are no outsiders.

All are welcome: black, white, red, yellow, rich, poor, educated, not educated, male, female, gay, straight, all, all, all.

We all belong to this family, this human family, God's family." ~ Archbishop Desmond Tutu I hope sharing these wise words will bring forth compassion and empathy for all and inspire others to get involved to be the change we so desperately need because enough is enough! In the meantime, I will continue to pray for God to seep into the hearts of those so bitter and angry as well as for the peacemakers trying to make change. 

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34 | pasoroblesmagazine.com

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Paso Robles Magazine | October 2020