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and Open
the
What:
Kids develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy and then open for business in this one-day marketplace.
Experience young minds marketing, selling, counting money and feeling accomplished!
Come be a shopper and help Avila Beach’s young entrepreneurs launch their businesses! They keep all the profits!
When: Saturday, October 15, 2022
Where: Avila Beach
SCAN ME
Paso Robles Press
Each year Paso Robles celebrates Pioneer Day on the second Saturday of October with a bean feed, parade, and other activities — always adhering to the time-old “leave your pocketbook at home” motto.
No Pioneer Day Court is complete without the Pioneer Belle and her attendants who represent the history of Paso Robles.
The Steinbecks' legacy in Paso Robles started long before they met and ever since they continue to give back to a community they love.
12 Publisher's Letter
14 Through the Grapevine
16 Paso Robles Main Street Association
17 The Natural Alternative
18 Paso Robles Area Historical Society
19 The General Store
20 Dellaganna Ranch: The End of an Era
22 Jim Wiemann: Remembering the Voice of Paso
24 Sherman Smoot: Remembering Sherman Smoot
27 Paso Robles Pioneer Day: Bean Feed
32 It’s Pumpkin Time: Pumpkin Patches In North County
Business
33 Paso Robles Chamber
34 San Luis Obispo County Office of Education
36 James Dean Memorabilia For Sale
38 Paso Robles Art in the Park
40 Paso Robles Gears Up for 2022 General Elections
42 Sip & Savor: Hello Merlot
44 Taste of Paso: Sharing "Americana" Recipes
45 Calendar of Events: 92nd Paso Robles Pioneer Day Parade
46 Service Listings: Government and Community Services
48 Worship Directory
Last Word
50 Honor Flight: Central Coast Tour
50 Directory of our Advertisers
Photo by Nicholas Mattson
“October, the true heart of Autumn...the golden leaves, the fresh, crisp air and the reality of how beautiful it can be to let things go.”
— Unnknown
With the 92nd Annual Parade, Bean Feed, and Festivities all happening this month (page 27), it finally feels like things are falling back in place after a rough but enlightening few years.
We had the honor once again to share this year’s Marshal and Queen on our cover with you and feature both husband and wife Harold (Howie) and Beverley (Bev) Steinbeck (page 30), along with the lovely ladies who make up this year court of Belle and Attendees (page 28).
The resilience and passion of the people who came before us are beyond measure. The ones who helped shape the community we have today from nothing. The ones who took all the risks and had a vision of what they wanted to see Paso Robles grow into are the true pioneers that we all celebrate. The Steinbecks are a part of the incredible group of people who believed in our community and put in the hard work every day.
Over the last month, we have lost a few devoted community members too soon. Sherman Smoot (page 24) and Jim Wiemann (page 22) lived their lives giving back to the community they love; our hearts and prayers go out to their loved ones.
Life is a precious gift; every day we wake up, we are given a choice on how we will face the world and connect with those we hold dear, those we come into contact with, and those we would rather avoid. How we choose to handle every encounter has a deep impact on our souls and well-being. As we come into the colder months ahead, this becomes even more relevant because we tend to need our community more during the winter months, and others need us as well.
That is what makes our community so special and why connecting and giving back is so important. We teach this to our boys who just started school again after two years; they are growing up fast and absorbing everything around them, which is why it is so important as parents that we are present and live as examples that we hope they will be proud of.
We are so honored to be able to bring you the Paso Robles Magazine each month, and thank you for your continued support for our family and our team.
if thou wouldest win immortality of name, either do things worth the writing, or write things worth the reading.
— Thomas Fuller, 1727
This month’s edition of Paso Robles Magazine is brought to you by all the local advertisers that fill our pages. Thanks to them, we are able to bring you your local Hometown Magazine.
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The General Store
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Commentary reflects the views of the writers and does not necessarily reflect 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.
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Paso Robles local and part owner of Hogue Inc., Aaron Hogue (61), died while racing his L-29 Ballista in the Reno Air Racing Associ ation’s (RARA) Stihl National Championship Air Races on Sunday, September 18.
Aaron, who won Rookie of the Year during last year’s races, died when his jet suddenly crashed into the ground during his last race. He was the only person involved in the crash. According to Flying Magazine, the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have opened an investigation into the accident. RARA has halted all races at this time.
Alongside his brother Pat, Aaron carried on their father, Guy Hogue’s, business making firearm accessories, expanding the Paso Roblesbased business to Henderson, Nevada, and devel oping numerous game-changing products. His son Neil Hogue worked alongside him as part owner of the Hogue Inc companies as well as Jim Bruhns.
Please see a future article in Paso Robles Press
and Paso Robles Magazine on the life of Aaron Hogue.
The Paderewski Festival in Paso Robles announces the 2022 lineup of concerts
The 2022 Paderewski Festival returns in full force with a series of live, in-person concerts in Paso Robles during the weekend of November 4-6. Performances are open to the public and will be held in various venues in downtown Paso Robles. Paderewski Patrons and Friends of Paderewski passes, as well as general admission tickets, are now available at paderewskifest.com.
On Friday, November 4, the beautifully restored Park Ballroom at 1232 Park Street in Paso Robles will be the setting for an engaging program of woodwind music presented by the award-winning Cracow Golden Quintet, an ensemble of exceptional young soloists who have performed and recorded throughout Europe. A Wine Reception will begin at 7 p.m., followed by a performance at 7:30 of two well-known works by Ignacy Jan Paderewski and musical sections from three outstanding neoclassical
Polish composers—Grażyna Bacewicz, Wojciech Kilar and Tadeusz Szeligowski.
On Saturday afternoon, November 5, the 2022 Paderewski Festival continues with two very attractive programs in the historic ballroom of the Paso Robles Inn located at 1103 Spring Street.
Winners of the 2022 Youth Piano Competi tion will be showcased in their recital at 4 p.m. Aged 10-18, the finalists in this year’s Junior and Senior divisions will present their repertoire to the assembled audience of family, friends, and Festival concertgoers. The awards ceremony will directly follow the young pianists’ appearances. This concert has been traditionally free and open to the public, and it remains so this year.
On Saturday night, the 2022 Paderewski Festi val Gala Concert will feature dynamic virtuoso pianist Jakub Kuszlik, winner of the Paderewski and Chopin International Piano Competitions.
Highlights of Maestro Kuszlik’s program will include Paderewski’s Polonaise, Légende and Cracovienne fantastique, and Bacewicz’s Second Piano Sonata, as well as Chopin’s Scherzo in E major and his monumental Piano Sonata in B minor. Epoch Estate Wines, the official Gala
Concert sponsor, will provide a Wine Reception at 7 p.m., followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m.
On Sunday, November 6, Friends of Paderewski, and Paderewski Patrons only are invited to a special brunch and concert on a brand-new concert grand Steinway presented at an exclusive venue in downtown Paso Robles. Further details on this event will be made avail able to Festival Pass holders only.
El Paso de Robles Chapter, NSDAR Presents Local Fire Departments with 9/11 Flags
for their service by presenting them with the flags. And on Friday, September 9, they headed to the Paso Robles Fire Department to do the same.
“We chose to do this because, well, first and foremost, we’re patriots, and we want to celebrate the job and responsibility the fire departments do,” said Regent Susan Howard. “And we also want to honor for Patriot’s Day the fallen fire fighters, the fallen policemen, and support our local fire departments in letting them know that we support them, we revere them, we honor them every day of our lives.”
The Daughters of the American Revolution are dedicated to preserving history, honoring patriots of the Revolutionary War, and making sure that
up the group who headed out to hand out the commemorative flags. They also had many words of thanks to give the fire departments in the North County.
“It’s very comforting knowing that, despite the hot weather and how busy we are as a fire service that, we have these women coming over and providing us with a flag that’s symbolic to not just the fire service but the whole country,” said Templeton Fire Capt. Andrew Klein. “We have to constantly remember that life is fragile and we never know what’s going to happen and the only way to make it through dark times is with the support of everyone coming together. We can’t all do this alone; it has to be a community and a team effort.”
We’ve lived through some brutal heat this summer. I read a plea for help, “Dear Mother Nature: Please check the thermostat, someone has set it to HELL!” The heat of autumn is different from the heat of summer. One ripens the apples, while the other turns them to cider.
October ramps up our event calendar and prepares us for the rapidly approaching holiday season. We start with one of Paso’s greatest celebrations and oldest traditions, our 92nd Pioneer Day! The parade starts at 10 a.m. on Spring Street and ends at The City Park with beans and events for everyone. The community comes out to enjoy Paso Robles and see old friends while making new ones.
In 1937 Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed Columbus Day a national holiday. Sunday, October 10, we celebrate Christopher Columbus discovering Amer ica in 1492.
Our “Golden Oak Honey and Pumpkin Festival plus The Kids Flea Market” will literally fill the Downtown City Park on Saturday, October 22, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.This is a day honoring the bees and their honey with The Central Coast Beekeepers Alliance SLO.
There are also vendors with arts and crafts and food specialty items, The Opti mist Club hosts children events including a Spelling Bee. Oh, and don’t miss Buzz,
Buzz Golf. Other contributors at the event are Almond Country Quilters, Navy Seabees, 811 DIG, and C.E.R.T. This event is free to the public and is the perfect way to celebrate the onset of fall. Call Main Street for info at (805) 238-4103.
Now we can wind down our October with “The Safe and Fun Halloween Down town” on the 31st. This is the perfect exam ple that we’re back in full swing with “Trick or Treat Downtown” from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., along with music, dancing, and, of course, Norma and her Coven of Witches roaming around town distributing treats and taking pictures with everyone! Don’t forget there are great hot dogs for sale in the park. So, grab your kids, wear your costumes and enjoy this fun, safe downtown tradition!
October should be called Kid’s Month! The three main events this month are centered around children. These events help them become more active citizens in the community as they begin to acquire self-esteem and start to shape their identity and skill sets. These events are a supportive, positive, uplifting foundation of a child’s life! It’s so much fun to watch them. You can actually see our future leaders.
Downtown Main Street is also busy in house. Following up on Norma’s request, Main Street America is sending Amanda Elliott (she is the Senior Program Officer and Director of the California Main Street Programs) to tour Paso Robles with our
board members and liaisons. They will do a progressive assessment workshop. This will begin the accreditation process to eval uate Paso and provide national recognition when this accreditation is complete. It’s a real honor to be accredited by the Main Street America Association, and we’re always excited and proud to show off our town!
We have just appointed five new members of our Board of Directors. We welcome Derek Bettencourt (past pres ident)/Jordano’s, Camilla Burns/Bijou, Andrea Phillips/Jayde, Anna Rodriquez/ Odyssey, and Raymond Smith/Indigene Cellars. We are excited to have them join our team and help Main Street on the Path to Success!
October is only the beginning of hectic times. It’s even more important that you stay balanced. I suggest you find your AWE. This is an amazing feeling. It is the emotion or sensation you feel when you suddenly sense that you are a part of some thing much, much larger than yourself. Life without AWE is like food without herbs or spices. Find your AWE while you enjoy October’s full moon on the 9th ( rising at 4:56 p.m.). It is called a Hunter’s Moon (or blood moon), it is large and red-orange in color because it is near the horizon. Create experiences that leave you in AWE, for these will be the highlights of you life! Carry On!
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Includes a side salad and glass of house wine
Ravioli
Pesto
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THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE DIAGNOSIS, PRESCRIPTION OR TREATMENT AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE USED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL COUNSELING WITH A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS 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.
rury Woodson James is quite famous in Paso Robles. He, along with the Blackburn Brothers, took our town from desolate hot springs to a bustling destination.
But while Drury was building himself a posi tive reputation around town and enjoying the life of a rancher — having purchased his La Panza Rancho in 1860 — his nephews were building a very different reputation for themselves.
For Drury James was uncle to notorious outlaws Jesse
Jesse and Frank become members of Quantrill’s noto rious raiders early in life. And in the following years, hard riding, shooting, and killing became a way of life
The brothers had recently robbed a bank in Russell ville, Kentucky. Legend says that following the bank robbery, Frank hid out with friends in Kentucky until the manhunt had quieted down. He then made his way to St. Louis, where he had a brief visit with his mother.
Frank then made his way to San Francisco by train and then by stagecoach to Paso Robles — landing at the La Panza ranch by the summer of 1868.
Jesse remained in Missouri as he had been wounded in the chest by a bullet during a previous robbery. He traveled from Missouri to New York City, and by June 1868, he left on a steamship, Santiago de Cuba, for Panama, crossing the isthmus and taking another steamer for San Francisco.
Drury was reluctant to have his nephews with him in Cali fornia. Unlike them, Drury was not an outlaw, his brothers were ministers, and he had worked hard and honestly to acquire his wealth and status in the Paso Robles area.
One of the La Panza ranch hands, Charles Morehouse, who referred to Jesse James as “Scotty,” is quoted as saying, “He rode a fine horse and had a fine saddle and bridle and riatta. He had two revolvers with ivory handles. He carried one on the front of his saddle and one on his left hip. The only man, I think, who had a firearm in our party. I noticed he acted rather queer for a common stockman, as he never mixed up with the rest of the men.
He never went out in the hill to run the
cattle into the roundup, and when the separating was done he would help hold the cattle after they were in the rodeo ground. He never did any roping. He seemed to want to be free at all times and at night when the rest of us had lain down for the night, Scotty, would go a short distance away and lay down with his saddle for a pillow.
Scotty asked me how I would trade my riatta for his, and I said, ‘you don’t want mine. It is most worn out,’ so he said, ‘let me look at it,’ and I handed it to him and at the same time, he handed his riatta to me. He said, ‘your riatta will hold anything I ever expect to lasso.’ The one he gave me was a very nice one. I had it for several years and finally, someone stole it.
When James was killed, a book was published. I bought one and saw the picture of Jesse James. I told my wife that is the man who gave me the riatta. I made some inquiry about this man Scotty and his cousin told me that he was Jesse James, and he was the man who gave me the riatta.”
There are several legends claiming the James boys hid out in local caves and tunnels beneath the Paso Robles Hotel and under a stairwell in one of the first houses built in Paso Robles. But these legends are questionable. It is uncertain they would have needed to hide from the public eye in Paso Robles as the local citizens may not have known what they looked like.
But the brothers did explore the countryside while working the ranch. A scratched inscription, ‘JESJAMES 1869,’ on one of the Carneros Rocks along the San Luis Obispo-Kern County line may be authentic.
The length of the James boys’ stay in California is unknown, but there is an unaccounted period of 20 months between the Russellville holdup on March 20, 1868, and the robbery in Gallatin, Missouri, on Decem ber 7, 1869.
Many robberies and acts of violence occurred in Missouri while the James boys were at La Panza, but for which they were blamed. Before Jesse and Frank returned to Missouri, John Thompson swore before a San Luis Obispo County notary that Jesse and Frank James had been at the La Panza Ranch at the time the crimes were committed in Missouri.
By the end of Jesse and Frank’s stay in Paso Robles in 1869, Drury had sold the La Panza Ranch and moved into a newly built home near the Paso Robles Hot Springs on Spring Street.
Living in town would not have been feasible for Jesse and Frank, and sooner or later, they would become a liability to Drury’s reputation. It is assumed that they had worn out their welcome with Louisa James, Drury’s wife.
Drury was known to be a smart businessman and good citizen. But whatever the reason for Jesse and Frank’s departure, it was their Uncle Drury who paid for their passage on the steamship back to New York by way of The Horn (Cape Horn in southern Chile).
An authenticated photograph or etching of Jesse James done while he was in Paso Robles. Paso Robles Area Historical SocietyWe dream of flannel shirts (Be Blessed, IYKYK) and steaming mugs of Vana Tisane Creative tea, a corner of a brown butter Dick Taylor chocolate bar to nibble on as we flip open page 1 of a brand new journal. Did we mention the pot of stew cooking low and slow on the stove, thanks to Melissa Clark’s new cookbook Dinner in One? It’s fall, and the air is crisp… Wait. We are in California, where the weirdos who crave cold weather, often sweat through Thanksgiving dinner because we insist on wearing a sweater. (Okay, maybe that’s just me.) The truth is, we may be in the mindset for autumn, but our gorgeous landscape is still mostly warm and sunny. So how are we supposed to channel this deep need to embrace buffalo plaid blankets and hot toddies?
One of the most striking and approachable new cookbooks out this fall is Yasmin Fahr’s Boards & Spreads, and we think it’s perfect for this not-quite-chilly month of football and earlier sunsets. Promoting “shareable, simple arrangements for every meal,” we were drawn to the breakfast boards (an egg pita sandwich board with eggs, avocados, lemony herbs & onions) served
alongside a bloody mary bar. And for a night where it’s still too toasty for soup, how about charred salad and smashed olives? Okay, full disclosure, we have some amazing local treats to flesh out this tablescape, starting with handmade boards from Shaloha Creations. Joshua Karp is a terrifically skilled craftsman who makes striking one-of-a-kind boards just for General Store PR. You could serve a single jelly bean on one of these guys and it would be stunning, but we would suggest a spread that includes our Morning Glory Farms Beer Jelly (in dark stout or IPA) alongside some of J&R Meats sausages (the best anywhere, in our opinion…we don’t sell them, we just love them.) Then a drizzle of Templeton Olive Oil over Fahr’s Two Minute Feta Dip, and a bowl full of Twisted Snack Co.’s insanely good pretzels, just new to our shelves. It’s Paso, so you’re sure to have something delicious to pour, and voila! Welcome Fall!
We spent the summer with our makers dreaming up some truly special treats for the holiday season, and we hope you’ll check our Instagram or come by soon to see. Cheers to Fall, neighbors!
-The Team at General Store Paso Robles
an Luis Obispo County is one of those areas where we have families who have been here for generations, dating back to the 1800s. The Dellaganna family is just one of those generational families, whose red barn seen from Highway 46 West stands out as a county landmark.
But the remaining members of the Dell aganna family are closing their chapter on the Central Coast and relocating east.
"It was the hardest decision we've ever had to make in our lives," said Georgia Dellag anna Bollinger, the fifth of six siblings.
The property was sold to Moonstone Hotel Properties, which owns several historic hotel properties, including Cambria Pines Lodge, Sea Otter Inn in Cambria, and the Monterey Hotel. Georgia said the company has a great vision for the ranch, with plans to maintain the property's historical value.
The Dellaganna story begins with Alberico Dellaganna, who was born in 1873 in Switzerland. Around the turn of the 20th century, Alberico eventually made his voyage to the Central Coast and started mining before purchasing the 600 acres that would become the family home for generations.
In 1902, Alberico married another Swiss descendant, Josephine Carmine, who was born in Cayucos in 1881. After purchasing the ranch, they transitioned from mining to dairy farming — a popular occupancy for Swiss families on the Central Coast at the time. The family would take their cream by horse and wagon to Harmony, the creamery capital for the area at the time.
While Georgia isn't sure when her family got its first truck, her father continued the family dairy business, expanding into other agriculture enterprises.
Georgia's father, Theodore Ellis Dellag anna, was born in 1915 in the ranch's origi nal home — then only a two- or three-room home. It wasn't until the home's renovation in 1935 that they had electricity and indoor toilets on the ranch.
World War II called two of Geor gia's uncles to enlist, but her father was able to stay home and carry on
the dairy business and expand the farm with more cattle, horses, and grain farming. Later on, he even served as a deputy county sheriff.
Each day was filled with hard work main taining the farm, but Theodore always made some time for fun at local brandings and rodeos with his horse named Pat. It was at one of those functions that he met his eventual wife, Nancie Bragg, and the two married on August 4, 1948.
Theodore and Nancie would go on to raise their six children in the original ranch house: Nancie (Dellaganna) is a medical mission ary who has been stationed in Bangladesh since 1977, Mary Dellaganna-Brunner now lives in Utah, Betty Dellaganna-Oxborrow married her high school sweetheart Roger, who was formerly the airport manager in Paso Robles, Theodore (Ted) Ellis Jr. took on the ranch responsibilities, Georgia Dellaganna-Bollinger married high school sweetheart Kurt, who also enjoyed farming on the ranch and working for Miller Drill ing Company for 49 years, and Kathleen Thompson lives in Washington state with her family.
Growing up on the farm was about what you could expect. Georgia and her siblings rode horses after their chores were done. They had laying hens, cows, and were constantly canning.
"It was the best life a child could have," said Georgia, "It was a wonderful childhood — I wouldn't have changed anything."
Theodore passed away in 1985 at the age of 69, and Nancie passed a few short years later in 1989 of what Georgia called a broken heart.
Georgia and her siblings continued to have family reunions at the ranch with chil dren and grandchildren, spending summers there doing the same things they did as kids.
But now, the siblings have decided together that it is time to close their chapter at the Dellaganna Ranch. This summer, all six siblings came together at the ranch to say their goodbyes.
While the Dellagannas may not live or own the ranch anymore, the red barn will always be a reminder of the Dellaganna family and their mark made on San Luis Obispo County.
Ted Sr. and his wife Nancie Dellaganna ride horses at the ranch.
• Dellaganna
While at Paso Robles High, Jim Wiemann played several sports, his favor ite being basketball Although Jim Wie mann spent most of his life in Paso Robles, he was born and spent his early childhood in Wis consin, becoming a proud "Cheesehead" rooting for the Green Bay Packers
Hewas a sports encyclopedia and a “cheesehead.” But most of all, James (Jimmy to most and Mo by family) Wiemann was known as the “Voice of Paso.”
The Bearcat community unexpectedly lost Jim on Thursday, Aug. 4, at the age of 56, leaving a hole in the Paso Robles sports community, where he was the go-to sports announcer and broadcaster.
Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jim was raised in the rural farming town of Bonduel, where his parents owned and operated Wiemann’s Bakery. But by the time Jim was 11 years old, the family made a big move to none other than Paso Robles.
However, the first decade of his life in Wisconsin made him a lifelong Green Bay Packer “Cheesehead” and “Packer Backer.”
In his school years, it was clear to Jim’s mother Annie that he was not going to be her straight-A student. Instead, he shined and excelled in the world of sports. He saved his allowance money from working in the bakery to buy baseball cards. And this was the beginning
of the brain that would later know every player’s stat, game plays, game predictions, and every thing in between. Jim could recite game plays and stats from nearly every sport out there from almost any decade — thus, his reputation as the sports encyclopedia.
In 1980, Jim’s parents opened Wiemann’s Bakery in Paso Robles and a new chapter in Jim’s life began — he became a Paso Robles Bearcat.
As a Bearcat, Jim played on every sports team he could, but basketball was his be-all and end-all. Family and friends will all say that he was happiest on the court or out on the field.
Jim lived and breathed sports, and he took that impeccable knowledge to the radio waves. Fresh out of high school, Jim joined the local radio station KPRL and began broadcasting live sports commentaries for local games for the schools and even adult teams in the area.
Jim’s friend Walt Van Zandt was one of the three amigos — Walt, Jim, and John Doss.
Walt remembers one of the lessons he learned most from Jim: “He would say, ‘if you want it
bad enough, anything is possible.’ He would say that to the athletes.”
Following his work at KPRL, Jim worked closely with Paso Robles City Mayor Steve Martin, and together, their sports segments grew into its own.
“I worked many years ago with Jim at our local radio station," Mayor Steve said. "More recently, he was a primary voice on my Internet radio station, VoiceOfPaso.com, as one of the announcers for Bearcat sports broadcasts. He was an enthusiastic supporter of local sports and worked diligently on the maintenance of the ball fields at Barney Schwartz Park. He will be missed.”
The commentary segment was just the beginning of what would later be known as “The Voice of Paso” (VOP) in 2017, and is now known as “805 Broadcasters.”
Through VOP, Jim brought together coaches, student-athletes, and enthusiasts together over the airways as he announced play-by-play for the Bearcats' games. The VOP team started traveling to away games and even covering some of the other schools in the area.
But no matter where or what he was covering, Jim’s announc ing was known for “drawing the picture” of the game for listeners. Even more so, he was known for his interviews with coaches and the athletes after the game.
Eventually, the “Bearcat Locker Room” was born, a one-on-one interview with the athletes, and everyone wanted to be a part of it.
Jim was known for his ability to make the interviewee comfortable, in turn allowing them to open up and pull valuable information from them. He had the student-athletes feel seen and acknowledged in a way that no one else had been able to before.
Friends of Jim’s thought his talent for broadcasting could have taken him to the big leagues — and he had the opportunity to. But Jim was happy at home, representing his fellow Bearcats
and focusing on their talents.
“He missed his calling as being one of the truly great broadcast ers,” said Walt.
Jim was also an integral part of Barney Schwartz Park, where there is a plaque that has his name engraved on it. He was a great broadcaster and athlete himself.
“He made the day brighter," said Walt. "As far as broadcasting, once he turned that switch on ... you were mesmerized listening to it. And on a personal basis, he was so likable. I don’t think he could have any enemies ... he made people want to do better.”
Jim’s sister, Catherine Wiemann Meress, wants people to remember how many student-athletes Jim mentored over his 30-year career, the kids he coached, his incredible talent for broadcasting, and the good man he was to all he came across.
There are few people in this world who can be considered a legend. And for those who knew him, Sherman Smoot was the stuff of legends.
Sherman was a local aviator who lost his life in a plane accident in Kern County on Friday, September 2. He died while piloting his Yakovlev Yak-11, named “Czech Mate,” in preparation for the Reno Air Races, held yearly in September.
Sherman was a consistent and familiar face at the STIHL National Championship Air Races. You could find him taking to the skies at speeds of 500 mph in the Unlimited Class, racing against, mostly, other stock or modified World War II fighters in “Czech Mate.”
At the Air Race, he was constantly surrounded by his friends and family, who would come from near and far to watch him or race against him. After hours you could often find him in a hangar singing a rollicking karaoke version of the Eagles’ hit “Hotel California” — usually more than once.
Sherman was also a long-time and dedicated member of the Estrella Warbirds Museum in Paso Robles and pilot for the nonprofit Honor Flights.
“A huge hole will be missing from the Paso Robles community, especially the museum there,” said Sherman’s friend and local aviation mechanic Marc Dart. “He was one of the few pilots that could fly a number of those airplanes out there and teach other people how to fly those aircraft.”
Sherman was one of the primary pilots for
the county’s famed 1944 World War II C-47, “Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber.” In 2019 Sherman and fellow friend and pilot Scott Stelzle flew Betsy to Normandy for a re-enactment of D-Day to celebrate the historical day’s 75th anniversary.
Just a week prior to his untimely death, Sher man and the Gooney Birds flew 17 local veterans around San Luis Obispo County. The flight was an effort to thank and honor the veterans as they await their official Honor Flight Tour to the East Coast later this year. Following the mini-tour, Sherman spoke with emotion, thanking the veterans for their service.
President of Honor Flight Bear McGill was honored to have had Sherman pilot the veterans for the flight but was disheartened knowing they couldn’t give Sherman his own Honor Flight.
“He was a wonderful man,” Bear said.
“Whenever we needed anything, Sherm was there to give us a hand on things. We greatly appreciate all he has done for us.”
A Vietnam veteran himself, Sherman excelled as a Navy Aviator, piloting F-4Js from the Ranger Aircraft carrier in the Tonkin Gulf. Some would say his life paralleled the likes of characters in “Top Gun” and “Top Gun: Maverick.”
Following his Navy career, Sherman spent more than 30 years in commercial flying for Continential Aviation. By the end of his commer cial career, Sherman earned high seniority as a 777 captain.
His travels around the world let him experience unique wine from various countries. This experi ence led him to open and build Bella Luna Estate Winery in Templeton with his high school friend Kevin Healey. The two played football together
and graduated from Atascadero High School — Kevin as the quarterback and Sherman as the center.
Sherman was a beloved member of not only the aviation community but every aspect of life he touched.
“He just had that way of having a captive audience,” Scott explained. “People were drawn to whatever he said or whatever he did. It was interesting ... it was absolutely natural.”
After meeting Scott in the early 2000s, Sher man taught him how to fly the various warbirds at the Estrella Warbird Museum. Then in 2007, they formed the Gooney Birds and had the opportunity to purchase Betsy.
They would fly Betsy to air shows all over California, Nevada, or anywhere they wanted her.
Through all of Sherman’s lessons, Scott said
he learned to “Live every possible day full throttle. Never hold back, whatever happens, happens.”
The aviation commu nity is tight-knit, unique, and full of characters. Through that community, Sherman was known for being a highly intelligent pilot, some saying the air was where Sherman was most at home.
Speaking to some of his talents, Jack Sinton of Sinton Helicopters says, “He was one of those guys who was extremely calm in a bad situation.”
As if his talents in the sky weren’t enough, Sherman’s warm personality made him loved by all who met him.
“I don’t think I ever met anyone who didn’t totally love Sherm,” said Mike Kelley. “He was a great guy. When he got in the cockpit, he was incredibly professional and over the top.”
Adding to Sherman’s praises, Marc said, “Sherm was always a happy guy. He pursued the things that he loved to do. Especially in aviation, he didn’t let anything stop him from achieving those goals that he wanted to accomplish and fly ... he lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed what he did and pursued his passions.”
After a rather “hairy” situation, while flying,
Sherman told Scott, “Someday we’re going to get too old to do this ... I want to die with my flight suit on, and I want to die with my boots on.”
And because of that, Scott wants people to know, “He [Sherman] has no regret that he lived every day and died doing what he loved."
The Smoot/Zanoli family released a statement to Paso Magazine regarding the loss of Sherman Smoot:
Sherman had an incredible impact on the community here in North County with his work at the Estrella Warbirds Museum and as an owner of Bella Luna Estate Winery, and an even broader impact as an aviator — a navy fighter pilot, airline pilot, and a race pilot at the Reno Air Races.
But, for us, his family, his impact extends beyond measure. We cherish the more personal side of Captain Smoot, from his love of dancing and singing at nearly every family party, the joy he had in bringing people together at the table over good food and wine, and his belly laugh and warm hugs. We know that, as fearless as he was, he would want everyone to have the most fun and squeeze everything out of life.
So for him, we live boldly, and though we miss him here on the ground, we know he is in the skies, where he always loved to be.
The family has asked, in lieu of flowers or gifts, to please donate in Smoot’s name to Estrella Warbirds Museum. In the memo, add “Youth Aviation Scholarship” or “Gooneybird Group Incorporated.”
7 a.m. | Traditional Bean Cooking Begins
Paso Robles City Park
8 a.m. | Children’s Pet Show, Little Cowboy / Cowgirl Contest
Paso Robles City Park Gazebo
10 a.m. | Pioneer Day Parade
Starts at 16th & Spring Street
12 / Noon | Free Bean Feed
Paso Robles City Park
12 / Noon | Carnegie Library & Historical Museum Opens in City Park
12 / Noon | Pioneer Park/Museum Activities 2010 Riverside Ave / Antique Tractor & Wagon Display and Vintage Engine Show
12:30 p.m. | Whiskerino Contest
Paso Robles City Park
1 p.m. | Horseshoe Pitching Contest
By Camille DeVaulThere is one day a year when Roblans can seemingly go back in time and fully embrace what it means to be from Paso Robles.
Since 1931, on the second Saturday of Octo ber, Spring Street becomes a runway for now antique tractors and equipment, dancing horses, marching bands, high school sports teams, and community groups. And while some things may change, the motto will always remain the same — leave your pocketbook at home.
The day is none other than Paso Robles Pioneer Day, which first debuted on October 12, 1931, as a day to bring together the town's city folk and farmers and give thanks to one another.
Now, 92 years later, Paso is bigger, but many of the traditions have stayed the same.
Paso Robles Pioneer Day Chairman Marga ret Wicks has been going to Pioneer Day her entire life.
“I grew up doing this,” she says, reminisc ing on her families trips together down to the park for the parade and how it was the only
Saturday her dad did not head to the sales yard in Templeton.
Margaret adds, “It’s part of where our family has been and how we grew up. It’s the people that came here and started all of the things that happened here.”
Each year, Pioneer day kicks off with a parade. You can see antique tractors and equip ment, horse-drawn wagons, marching bands, mounted equestrian groups, youth and church groups, floats, vintage cars, fire engines, and more heading towards the park.
A newspaper clipping from the Daily Tele gram 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 heading north to Paso’s sixth annual Pioneer Day.
Families have been making memories at the parade since its start. From the parade to the little cowgirl and cowboy contest, memories are being made in every inch of downtown.
“It’s kind of in the blood and hopefully, we can preserve the event,” said Margaret. “That
Paso Robles City Park
1 p.m. | Gymkhana Paso Robles Event Center
we can continue to do this and let some of the younger people start taking over some things.”
During its start in 1931 and even now, the event still brings people together, from the outskirts of town to inland and everywhere in between. For many, Pioneer Day is a family reunion, like some who have traditions of meeting in the same corner of the park after the parade.
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.
“The group of people that are doing this is dedicated to preserving the history,” said Margaret. “The people that came and settled here. It’s important to remember those roots whether you came from here or whether you only came more recently.”
The Pioneer Day Parade starts promptly at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 8, in downtown Paso Robles. The parade route starts at 16th and Spring Street and ends surrounding the Paso Robles City Park.
Over1 billion beans are served each year at the annual Paso Robles Pioneer Day Bean Feed. We know that because head man of the bean feed, David Kudija, did the math.
This year, the city will be celebrating its 92nd Annual Bean Feed.
“Same place and we start serving at noon,” says David, who has been the man in charge of beans for about five years now.
The traditional bean feed was started back in 1931 when 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 originally 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.
The preparation for the bean feed begins in August. All 13 large cooking pots are pulled out and inspected for damage. Then, 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.
For the last two years, the beans have been donated by Richard and Joan Morgantini and the Morgantini Ranches. Richard told Paso Maga zine that he and Joan love to give back to their community and wanted to contribute to the Pioneer Day festivities.
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.
A crew of about 15 people volunteers 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 was drafted with already an established bean cooking history. 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.
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.
So get your pots and picnic blankets ready. Beans are served by the clock tower across from the park starting at noon. See you there!
No Pioneer Day Court is complete without the Pioneer Belle and her attendants. This year, Jenna Wilshusen, representing the El Pomar area, is the 92nd Pioneer Day Belle.
Belles and their attendants are young ladies representing a local Pioneer Family that came to the area between the 1880s and 1930. They are usually fresh high school graduates and young women. Their families have deep-rooted connections in the Paso Robles community, representing the different regions making up Paso Robles.
This year, Gina Hambly, Jill Smith, and Gelene Dodd-Coelho are working as the Pioneer Day Belle Committee, taking over for Debbie Vandergon and her sister Karen Roden who were on the committee for 25 years. They now work on the Queen's Committee.
"Pioneer Day is so important to my family, and their families as well," said Jill. "We all come from a long history of settlers in this area. And we realized that if people from our generation don't start stepping up, Pioneer Day will go away."
The Wilshusen family's pioneer history dates back to the mid-1920s in the Paso Robles area. Arthur Otto Wilshusen, wife Nora May (Woods) Wilshusen, and their three sons George, Jim, and Charley left Kansas to find opportunities out West.
"It has been such an honor to be named a Belle," said Jenna. "I feel like it made my parents proud by getting to share what I know and what I have also gotten to learn."
Jenna's great-grandfather, Jimmie Spencer, grew up in Cholame and the El Pomar area, and in 1943 he married Elizabeth (Lib) Turner. In 1958, Spencer entered into a partnership with Pepper Martin to own a grocery and butcher store in Shandon.
As the first Black Belle Attendant, Grace Ann is making Paso Robles history.
"It's definitely an overwhelming experi ence and being in the position that I'm in, I can highlight the Black community and how much I've grown up around it," she said.
GraceAnn is the seventh generation of the Edgar and Root pioneer families on her moth er's side. Her four-times grandparents John and Hannah Edgar, moved to a farm in the Estrella area in 1883 and homesteaded several different places around the area with their seven children.
"It's a huge honor for me to be able to walk alongside my family and be able to express
myself in a different way because we're not all the same and being able to get myself out there," said Grace Ann, who has many cousins and relatives before her to serve as a Pioneer Day Belle or attendant.
Grace Ann's great-grandmother Carol Root graduated from Paso Robles High School and then Cal Poly, eventually becoming a teacher. She was the first of many teachers in the family to follow her, all teaching within the Paso Robles area.
Lastly, Grace Ann says she wants people to know "how unified Paso has become. Paso has become way more diverse with all the people that live here, and it feels like an honor to be a part of that and to be sort of like a gateway for people."
Jane's paternal two-times grand parents, Joe and Teresa Allen, set tled in the Bee Rock area in 1881. Their daughter, Audrey Cary, Jane's great-grandmother, was the Pioneer Day Queen in 2003.
"I'm really [happy] that I get the opportunity to do it because a lot of my family has been involved with it for years upon years, so it's a pretty important thing for my family and me," said Jane, who will be continu ing the family traditions at Pioneer Day.
Jane's paternal grandmother, Ginni Rossi Cary, also has a Pioneer heri tage. Her parents were Maurice Rossi and Margi Mulhall Rossi. Maurice Rossi's grandparents, Vicente Rossi and Angelina Coradi started the Crescent Farms Dairy in Templeton in 1886. Margi Mulhall's grandpar ents, Emanuel and Sarah Kuhnle settled on the Estrella Plains Ranch in 1890. The family still owns this ranch today, where Jane's father, Matt, still farms.
"It means a lot because I hope it's something that sticks around forever," said Jane. "It's important, and it makes me happy to have also been involved in the Pioneer Day Committee."
The Pesenti family history goes back five generations. Pietro (Pete) Pesenti, Brooklyn's two-time grandfather, immigrated from Italy in 1910 and found work on the Paderewski Ranch. By 1914 Pete had earned enough money to send for his wife and daughter to join him in America, and in 1921, Pete and his wife Maria purchased land in the Willow Creek area.
"It was cool getting to go through all the old articles, magazines, and newspapers and seeing how much of my family history was actually presented back then," said Brooklyn of her time researching her family history.
Raymond Pesenti Sr. attended the first ever Pioneer Day on Octo ber 12, 1931. He was 9 years old and remembered his father hitch ing up the family wagon and driv ing them into town to attend the celebration.
Ellie's maternal two-times grandfa ther, Herman Heilmann, moved from Germany to Creston in 1910. He made a trip back to Germany in 1913, where he met and married his wife, Margarete Negelke. He returned to Creston in 1914 and began farming. Frieda and her husband Lee owned and operated a small dairy farm in the area and Frieda also worked at the Paso Robles Mercantile.
"I really enjoy knowing where I come from and different aspects of that like how they lived," said Ellie.
Ellie's maternal two-time grand parents, Fedele and Antoinette Ostini were also early Pioneers, moving to Atascadero in 1919 and eventually settling in the Templeton area.
Kylie's two-time grandfather, Louis Lauridsen, settled in the Paso Robles area in 1898. He was a wheat farmer in the Union and Dry Creek area and was the founding director of the Farmers Alliance Business Association.
"I'm excited," said Kylie of being a part of Pioneer Day. "I think it will be fun and it's a unique experience to have and not everyone gets to do that."
Louis and his wife, Maren Jenson, had three children, Esther, Ingward, and Margrethe. Ingward Lauridsen and his wife Anna were Kylie's great grandparents. Her Aunt Danna was a Belle Attendant in 1977, and her sister Becca Stroud was the Belle in 2019.
Emily Wilson | Templeton
Emily's favorite part of being a part of the Pioneer Day Royalty is "seeing all of the people that are so passionate about the parade."
Neils and Mary Jane Johnson settled in the Templeton area in 1889. Neils had a great deal of timber on his land, and he cut a certain amount for wood each year. In 1913 following the death of Mary Jane, Nels sold his property and moved into town, where his house still stands at the corner of Crocker and 3rd streets in downtown Templeton.
"I'm excited that I get to participate in this," said Emily. "I get to see my mom excited about me getting dressed up and representing our family."
To read more about the Belle and her attendants, head to pasoroblespioneerday. org/royalt
Jane Foltz-Cary Adelaida
Ellie Sonniksen Creston
Emily Wilson Templeton
Kylie Stroud Union
GraceAnn Cooper Whitley Gardens
Ellie Sonniksen Creston
Howie is not the first in his family to wear the Pioneer Day Marshal badge. Gene Ernst was Marshal in 1998 and riding in the first Pioneer Day parade as a Belle attendant was Howie’s mom, Hazel Ernst Steinbeck. Hazel also rode in the 75th anniversary parade, representing Paso’s rich history.
But going back to the beginning, Howie’s pioneer story starts back in the late 1800s with the Ernst family.
From Geneseo, Illinois, to
By Camille DeVaulThis year’s Paso Robles Pioneer Day Marshal and Queen are husband and wife Harold (Howie) and Beverley (Bev) Jespersen Steinbeck. The two stand together this year as the 92nd Pioneer Day Marshal and Queen — and they are the fourth couple to do it together.
The Steinbecks will proudly represent their seven generations of pioneers in the Paso Robles Pioneer Day Parade on Saturday, October 8. By their side will be the several Steinbeck generations to follow them, carrying on the legacy.
Geneseo, California — that was the path Howie’s great-grandpar ents, William Ernst and Barbara Amelia Matthis, took from Germany to finally settling in the Paso Robles region.
William and his twin brother John Ernst brought their families to the Paso Robles area in 1884 and 1885 after answering an ad in the newspaper calling for German-Lu theran settlers. After settling, the brothers planted wine grapes and built a wine brand — soon becom ing well known for their craft in the Creston area.
Not only were the brothers one of the first to plant two of the earliest vineyards in the Geneseo area, but they were also the very first to farm grain in the Geneseo District, east of Paso Robles. They would go on to build the Geneseo Schoolhouse, now located at the Paso Robles Pioneer Museum on Riverside.
Howie’s grandfather would be
Frank Ernst, one of William’s sons, and was the Ernst to purchase the ranch on Union Road with his wife, Rosetta Paulus. Eventually, that same ranch would be passed on to Howie. Today four gener ations live and work the ranch together, growing premium grapes and making wine under the Stein beck label.
Farming was a family passion that would be passed on to Howie at an early age. At just 4 years old, Howie began learning the farm trade at his grandpa Frank’s side. Now roles have reversed, and Howie is the grandpa supporting his grandsons, Ryan and Bryan, in the grape growing and wine making business.
The four Ernst Brothers — Harold, Gene, Wilmer (Bim), and Ellsworth (Bud) — formed their company, Ernst Brothers, in 1945. Their four ranches were a combined 7,800 acres, with wheat and barley farming on 2,500 acres.
Howie has many memories of his childhood farming grain with the Ernst brothers. At 12 years old, Howie started running the big equipment — the harvester.
The Ernst Brothers owned the granary, now home to Cool Hand Luke’s, and they were the first to distribute bulk grain by train to market.
Howie recalls what Paso Robles was like during the days of the granary.
“It looked like a sleepy little country town. We would be in town, and we would always say hi to everybody because we knew almost everybody,” he said.
Farming remained engraved into Howie’s life. In 1958, he began working at Paso Seed and Chemical, which was later sold to Western Farm Services. He worked there for 32 years, teach ing others how to grow grapes, grain, and alfalfa as a pest control adviser.
Queen Bev is also no stranger to the Pioneer Court. She was Pioneer Belle in 1957, and her grandmother, Jennie Iversen Jespersen, was Queen in 1965. Bev is honored to walk in her grandmother’s footsteps as Queen 57 years later. Howie and Bev’s daughter Denise was Belle
attendant in 1981.
The Jespersen story begins in Los Osos after the family had immigrated there from Sweden.
In 1936, Francis Jespersen — Bev’s father — and his brother Lawrence began their farming and dairy operations in San Luis Obispo County with ranch prop erties expanding into Templeton, Los Osos, and San Miguel.
Like Bev and Howie, her parents were also high school sweethearts.
Francis Eldwin Jespersen married Edna Mae Hopper in 1939 — one year later, they welcomed Bev into the world at the Atascadero Hospital.
California State Senator Chris tian Jespersen was Bev’s grand father. He was elected to the
California State Assembly several times between 1926 and 1930 and then as State Senator from 1930 to 1951.
According to Bev, politics was not something Senator Jespersen meant to do with his life. But after becoming frustrated with the way things were being handled in the county, he was unintentionally elected and that lit the flame of his political career.
He was credited for saving Cal Poly, which was threatened with closure from the state in 1933. Additionally, he founded the Chris Jespersen School for special needs children in San Luis Obispo. Sena tor Jespersen was the first to receive an Honorary Degree from Cal Poly in 1948 for his efforts in saving the
now very popular college and there is now a wing at Cal Poly named after him.
Bev has clear memories of visiting her grandpa in the State Capitol, and unfortunately, Sena tor Jespersen died unexpectedly in 1951 while still serving his term.
Another memory Bev has is of her grandmother’s Victorian home in Atascadero. During the expan sion of Highway 101 at Morro Road, the home was victim to eminent domain and torn down to make way for the expansion.
The Jespersen brothers and their sons moved their operations to Klamath Falls, Oregon, in the mid-60s, where they continued to farm grain, alfalfa and raise cattle.
Now, the Howie and Bev story begins its merge at a high school football game in the ’50s.
Both were Bearcats attend ing Paso Robles High School; the two really had known each other their entire lives.
Things finally kicked up a notch between the two when Bev went to the football game to watch “Steinbeck 22” play.
After the game, Bev went to the lockers and told someone to get Howie, she needed a ride home.
And that was the beginning of their lives together. Howie graduated from PRHS in 1956 and Bev in 1958. The two married a year later in 1959.
Together, Howie and Bev started to build their vine yard business, which they established in 1982. They soon became leaders in the local industry, becoming the founding members of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance in 1993. For 25 years, they hosted the organization’s annual barbeque. With their
daughter Cindy, the Steinbecks established their wine brand in 2006.
Howie and Bev continued their family’s efforts in the community — becoming known for many things like Bev’s cooking.
But they also were recog nized by the chamber as Citi zens of the Month in 1994, and by the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance as Industry Persons of the Year in 2006.
For 30 years the couple have been dedicated to the Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce Ag Tour Committee feed ing hundreds that attend the annual Ag-Tour, and support ing Ag in the classroom.
The Stenbecks celebrated 100 years of farming and living on the Ernst/Steinbeck ranch, originally purchased by Howie’s grandparents, Frank
and Rosetta Ernst, in 1921.
Howie bumps around the ranch in the family’s 1958 Willis Jeep, giving tours and telling old ranch stories — like the one when a World War II plane crashed on the ranch — and of the Creston Band that started in 1895.
Together, Howie and Bev have four children, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren who are all proud to see their parents/ grandparents be honored and continue the family legacy. The Steinbeck's pioneering history can be seen at their tasting room on Union Road or on steinbeckwines.com.
Francis Jespersen (Bev’s father) and Beverly Jespersen Steinbeck take a ride on a bulldozer in this un dated photo
We are entering the fall season now, where the word “pumpkin” is popping up everywhere, especially in food and drinks. But we can’t forget where the true pumpkin lies — in a patch on a farm! In San Luis Obispo County, we are fortunate that there are many pumpkin patches for us to purchase that special pumpkin(s). Whether you want to go to North County or South County or want a pumpkin patch with additional activities surrounding the picking-out fun, there is a patch for you.
River K in Paso Robles is a family-owned and operated business by the Kunze family, and they have been growing pumpkins for 25 years. They also have a fun 3-acre corn maze to meander through and weekend hay rides for an added fee, according to Zak Kunze.
Customers are also given clippers to pick and cut their pumpkins. The patch is open October 1 through 31, and during the week, the hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on the weekends from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Jack Creek Farms in Templeton is a fifth-gen eration-run farm. It is open year-round, selling
produce and honey, and offers what they deem a pumpkin palooza centering around pumpkin crafts and activities for families to enjoy.
Kids can enjoy playing with their wooden train and haystack. Their farm also features Happy Acres (paid entrance fee required). Fami lies and children will enjoy their fort polliwog maze, tractor tire garden, farm animals, farmer’s market, corn bin, sand trough, storybook trail, laundry adventure, little buckaroo cafe, and more.
Jack Creek visitors can even get a Pumpkin Palooza “to go” kit, which is available September 16 and while supplies last. The kit includes one small pumpkin, one apron, one table cover, six acrylic paint cups, one paint brush, one paint tray, one cup for in-between paintbrush rinsing, one glue stick, and one bag of decorations. The Jack Creek Farms is open most days, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Chesebrough Farms in Templeton, founded by Bob and Donna, has been running a seasonal pumpkin patch for over 20 years. The patch is open October 1 through 31 from 10 a.m. to 6
p.m. and specializes in growing fresh pumpkins, squash, and corn, but also offers other fresh vegetables in season. There are plenty of photo opportunities on the farm, including at their old-fashioned roadside stand, complete with their “Pumpkin and Winter Squash Cookbook.” Also, for an additional cost, you can make an early request to artist Donna to scar a pumpkin for you next year — something she is known for around town!
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Paso Robles Chamber
What’s better than one Chamber looking out for your best interests and strengthening our local busi ness community? Two that are becoming one, of course! Earlier this year we announced the plan to merge the Paso Robles and Templeton Cham bers of Commerce into one stronger, unified organization. Although our membership spans throughout all of San Luis Obispo County, our direct coverage area now encompasses Creston, Paso Robles, Templeton, San Miguel, Shandon, Lake Nacimiento and Oak Shores communities.
While we entered this new phase of improved benefits and increased collective marketing, legis lative and economic potential, it wasn’t without its challenges. There is a reason it’s said: “Good things come to those who wait.” So where are we now? What have we done and what is on the horizon in the near future?
We are happy to report that we continue to work closely with legal representatives that are
guiding the merger so that all of our i’s are dotted and our t’s are crossed.
Three additional seats were added to the Paso Robles Board of Directors that have been and will continue to be filled with business repre sentatives or residents of Templeton so that we continue to understand the specific needs of that community.
We were able to honor and keep alive two beloved Templeton Chamber events: the 4th of July celebration in Templeton Park and the Women in Business Luncheons held the second Thursday of each month at McPhee’s.
Our Annual Gala was a success this year as we proudly incorporated awards traditionally celebrated by each of our communities. Our Roblans of the Year, Pat Bland and Brian Thorn dyke, shared the stage with Templeton Business of the Year, McPhee’s Grill. A great time was had by all!
Chamber staff is analyzing each member of
both organizations to initiate dialogue on Cham ber resources available, whether you are a staff of one or a large corporation of many.
In both communities, the offices and Visitor Centers continue to operate and expanded hours will soon be added in Templeton once dedicated staff is fully onboarded.
In the near future, we will be in contact with all Paso Robles and Templeton Chamber Members, who will be asked to vote to adopt the merger. Keep your eyes open for more information!
After the membership vote, our bylaws will be amended to encompass interests of all members, in all business sectors, and with sustained growth in mind.
While “two heads are better than one,” the nearly 1,000 members of this newly combined organization will provide the voices, ideas and input needed to continue to make north county the most desirable place to live, work, shop and vacation.
Over the past two years, because of the pandemic, I attended most local school board meetings virtually and observed local governance in action. Like the rest of the state, San Luis Obispo County experienced a much higher participation rate because of the virtual access to meetings. After returning to in-person meetings, some San Luis Obispo County School districts and charters continue offering a hybrid option for remote participation. Several districts through out the state have made formal resolutions to continue the hybrid practice. The County Board of Education is holding in-person meet ings with an option for the public to partici pate virtually. Because County Board meetings are primarily appellate, many participants are from across the county. The remote option for County Board meetings was available before the pandemic but was rarely implemented. Regardless of the type of access, the public must remain engaged in local government.
A few years ago, I mentioned to a friend that an upcoming local board meeting required my attendance, and John joked, “You mean a bored meeting, don’t you?” I said, “No, not really.”
Local school board meetings are not dull, irrelevant, or wasted time. Today, more than at any time in my nearly 40-year career, I find local boards important, relevant, and crucial in navigating today’s complex issues. Locally elected school board members or “trustees” are non-partisan members of our commu nity that ideally reflect the diversity of those they serve. According to the National School Boards Association, 44 percent of school trust ees are female (more than the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate), and over 25 percent of elected school board members are from underrepresented ethnic populations.
Every school district in the country has an elected board of trustees. Approximately 95,000 school board members make up the country’s largest group of elected officials. In addition to parents, teachers, staff, and admin istrators, school board members support qual ity education provided within the communities they represent.
Most school boards convene one-to-two times per month, are open to the public, are often one of the largest employers in a city or community, and provide governance for the schools they represent. A subtle but significant note is that board meetings are meetings of the school board in public, not public forums. The public can become frustrated by the formality of school board meetings because of govern ment and education code regulations. It is best to ask the school administration how to share information or comments outside the 3-minute time limit for public input. Trust ees serve four-year terms staggered to prevent large vacancies from occurring all at once. A trustee must be a registered voter who is at least 18 years old, a citizen of the state they represent, live in the jurisdiction boundaries, and eligible under the state’s constitution to be elected to public office. Depending upon the school district's size, most trustees are unpaid or receive a small stipend and possibly health insurance coverage. School districts are complex, multimillion dollar organizations. Board members can work from 10 to 40 hours per month on school district governance matters. Governing boards oversee the needs of students, families, and budgets. Trustees also provide solid stewardship for the nation’s schools.
Highly functional school boards fill a vital role in maintaining local districts by always keeping the best interests of all students first. Boards should model civility when celebrating successes or dealing with challenges. Success ful school boards understand that boards govern while the superintendent, district
administrators, teachers, and staff manage their schools. Five critical components of effective school boards are setting a vision, advancing policy, demonstrating accountability, play ing a leadership role in the community, and forging civil consensus. The last component is often one of the most difficult to maintain in today’s media-drenched political atmosphere. The title of this article is “Motion, Second, Discussion, & Civility,” not “my way or the highway.” An effective board is secure with differing votes that reflect the community they represent. Confident boards often encourage diverse opinions while building a consensus that moves items forward with a majority vote representing the people who elected the trustees.
Experienced school board members know that true consensus is not about winners and losers. Motion, Second, Discussion asks all participants to consider and eventually affirm the key points:
1. “Are all voices heard?”
2. “Is the item understood?”
3. “Is it clear that the group's will has emerged around the proposal?”
When a trustee makes a motion and another trustee seconds the motion, the board then discusses/listens/votes on the action. True democracy exists when civility is maintained, authentic dialogue occurs, and a majority vote takes place. I encourage everyone reading this article to thank our locally elected trustees, attend a school board meeting, and engage in the civic process with civility. The Institute for Local Government reminds us that local officials grapple with complex issues regu larly. Bringing as many perspectives on the best solution to a given problem increases the likelihood that the solution will be successful and enduring. Please get in touch with your local school district or the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education for additional information. It is an honor to serve as your County Superintendent of Schools.
“I’d be very happy serving on alocal school board. I just knowthat I have a responsibility to giveback.” — Andrew Zimmern
“Service is the rent you pay for room on this earth.”
— Shirley Chisholm
COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
James Brescia, Ed.D.Oak Luis Obispo
Alisting on an antique’s social media page caught some attention from Paso Roblans — the listing in ques tion was for an embalming table used in a local funeral home and likely held the remains of actor James Dean.
On Sep. 30, 1955, the sleepy town of Chol ame on Highway 41 and 46 East, just outside of Paso Robles, made national headlines when Dean’s Porsche collided with a Ford Coupe, resulting in his untimely death.
The “Rebel Without a Cause” star was said to have been traveling down the highway at speeds up to 90 mph when 23-year-old Cal Poly student Donal Turnupseed made a left turn onto Highway 41 in front of Dean. Unable to stop in time, Dean slammed into Turnupseed’s coupe. The crash left Turnup seed with minor injuries, but Dean was not so lucky.
According to Dean’s death certificate, which is easily accessible online, he suffered a broken neck, multiple upper and lower jaw fractures, multiple fractures of the right and left arm, and internal injuries.
Also listed on the death certificate is the name of the funeral director — Kuehl Funeral Home of Paso Robles.
According to the antique dealer’s Facebook listing of the embalming table, “The table pictured is a 1928 champion embalming table made in Springfield, Ohio. This embalming table was purchased in 1928 by Kuehl’s Funeral home in Paso Robles, established in 1927. James Dean was brought to this funeral home in Sep. of 1955 after his car crash at Hwy 41 and 46 East.”
While the antique dealer posted the table on the Vineyard Antique Mall’s social media page, the dealer is separate from the antique store, located on Ramada Drive, and they wished to remain unnamed.
They added, “There were only two embalm ing tables there at that time. This was one of the embalming tables that was used there at that time.”
The antique dealer in possession of the table previously worked for the funeral home, now known as Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home. They told Paso Magazine that it is incredibly likely Dean was either embalmed or prepped on the table.
According to some reports, Dean died at the collision scene. Still, others will say Dean was pronounced dead on arrival, shortly after arriving by ambulance to the Paso Robles War Memorial Hospital at 6:20 p.m. The hospital, located on 15th Street, has since
closed its doors.
News of Dean’s death reached the world through television and radio. The death even made the front page of Paso Robles Press’s Oct. 3, 1955, issue.
Three days after the fatal crash, an inquest into Dean’s death was made at the council chamber in San Luis Obispo, where the sheriff-coroner’s jury verdict was that Dean was entirely at fault for the accident due to his speeding.
It should also be noted that Dean had recently picked up auto racing as a hobby. He was heading to the Salinas Road Race, scheduled for Oct. 2-3, 1955, at the time of his death.
Dean is buried in Fairmount, Indiana, where he grew up for most of his life.
The stretch of highway where Dean died is now marked as the James Dean Memorial Junction. A small memorial dedicated to Dean can be found at the Jack Ranch Cafe off the now infamous highway.
Since the embalming table was listed for sale on the Vineyard Antique’s social media page, many have posted in the comments. Some are curious, some not so much. But either way, the table does hold a morbid part of Paso Robles history that catches attention — and is clearly quite the talking piece.
Oak James Dean
Twice a year, artists working in various mediums gather to share their masterpieces for the Paso Robles Art in the Park, held in the heart of Downtown Paso Robles.
Over 30 new artists are coming to this falls show on October 15 and 16, including gold and silversmith Hester Van Diggelen from Santa Barbara. Hester learned her trade in the Netherlands and now travels the Nation to different art shows selling her jewelry and works of art.
Celebrating five years in 2022, the Paso Robles Art in the Park Show has become the largest and finest show in San Luis Obispo County.
There will be 120 artists attending the show, with artists coming from five western states — which means there will be something for everyone.
Producer of the Art in the Park Show Steve Powers hosts the show twice a year, once in late April and again in October. He has been directing art shows in California since 1975 — and his experience shows as the show brings a unique experience to its patrons.
Steve only allows original art in the show, meaning all items are hand crafted by the artist, who is with their work in the park. Visitors and art shoppers have the opportunity to speak directly to the artists, something rarely seen at art shows anymore, Steve explains.
Art available varies from fine art, metal and leatherwork, photography, jewelry, stained glass, and even handmade clothing. Many of the artists are San Luis Obispo County locals.
Some local artists that can be seen at the show is Deb Lysek of Templeton, Randall Bryett of rural Paso Robles, and Don Greater of Paso Robles.
Deb creates original hand-painted silk scarves and other wearable art. She chooses silk as her canvas because of its beautiful, soft, and flowing feel — and its ability to add elegance to any outfit. Deb hand paints all of her pieces using silk dyes.
Randall is a local wildlife photographer whose love for the outdoors shows through his photos. He specifically chooses to reproduce his images on dye-infused metal prints, making them lightweight and easy to maintain.
Don takes woodworking up a level with his combination of classic techniques and modern methods. Each piece is unique and ranges from serving trays, charcuterie boards, cutting boards, or even something completely customized.
Steve explains the show is for more than just the art collector, "The show is geared to all ages. You can find something from $5 to $5,000."
The Part in the Park shows typically bring in around 7,000 people over the course of two days and is free to attend. Being located in the heart of downtown makes it a fun day for visitors to support local artists and the park's surrounding businesses.
For more information, visit pasoroblesartinthepark.com.
he November General Election is fast approaching and Paso Robles' local elec tion is full of candidates for the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District and City Coun cil. This November, Paso Robles residents will be voting for mayor, two city council seats, and several PRJUSD trustee seats.
In District 1, current Councilmember John Hammon filed his paper work to run for another term. He is running with out any contestants.
Former PRJUSD trustee Chris Bausch is running for the District 2 seat — also without any contestants.
Paso Robles Mayor Steve Martin is running for re-election against Paso Robles resident Michael Rivera.
In 2024, By-Trustee Areas 3, 5, 6, and 7 will elect a trustee for a four-year term.
Jim Cogan, business owner/parent, has filed to campaign for trustee in District 1 against current trustee Chris Arend.
Peter Byrne, listed occupation as retired, has now filed paperwork to campaign for the spot.
In District 2, Joel Peterson has filed to run for the seat with no contestants.
In District 4, Frank Triggs, who was appointed by the district as trustee in December 2021 to replace Jim Reed, is campaigning for the seat against two other candidates.
Nina has thirteen years of nursing experience, including ten years in intensive care. She holds a Master’s degree in nursing science and is now focusing on women’s health. If you need an annual wellwoman exam or have other gynecological needs, Nina will provide compassionate care.
In the office of Steven J. Herron, M.D., OB/GYN 1111 Las Tablas Road, Suite N Templeton, CA 93465 805 434-1825
Nina Lu, ARPN NP-C
its versatility, it’s agreeable, and it’s a bit of Jack of all trades when it comes to food pairing,” commented Soren Christensen, winemaker at Hearst Ranch Winery. He was referring to merlot, a wine that has been on a roller coaster ride in the last two decades; it was up, then down, and now in recent years, on an upswing and gaining much respect.
Christensen was among a small group of Paso winemakers gathered for a merlot tasting hosted by Hearst Ranch Winery at its North River Road tasting room in Paso Robles.
The merlot winemakers and producers included Tom Myers and Craig Reed from Castoro Cellars; Josh Harp of Jada Vineyard & Winery; Sterling Kragten from Cass Winery; Laura Kramer of Kramer Estate Wines; Don Arndt of Arndt Cellars; Bill Powell of Powell Mountain Cellars; Neeta Mittal, owner of LXV and Christensen.
We were here to mark the #MerlotMe move ment, which kicks off every October, culminat ing on November 7 as National Merlot Day. Now entering its tenth year, the movement was a brainchild of the Duckhorn family, known for its Napa Valley high-end luxury merlot.
The afternoon tasting included bottlings of 100% merlot and merlot blends from Paso’s eastside and westside; and a selection from Napa Valley, Sonoma’s Russian River, Mendocino, and from Washington State’s Walla Walla Valley.
Myers weighed in on the continuing identity of merlot, a variety commonly used in blending. Until the 1990s, merlot was not known as a varietal wine, Myers noted. “Cab was king,” he said, referring to cabernet sauvignon. “Then it [merlot] took off; it was softer, marketable,
and had a broader appeal.” At Castoro, merlot planting didn’t begin till the late 1990s.
“Then we were hit by “Sideways” and took a back seat for a decade.”
Myers was referring to the multi-awardwinning film in which one damning dialogue single-handily brought merlot’s downfall.
“But we didn’t pull it out; we found a home for it,” Myers noted of the merlot planting. We tasted Castoro’s caressingly lush 2020 vintage which was 82 percent merlot blended with equal portions of petit sirah and tannat.
And what is the popularity of merlot in local tasting rooms?
“We try to present it in the tasting room if they are non-merlot fans,” commented Harp. However, the Gen-Xers are getting into it, he added. “I love the richness of it and the natural baking spice.”
Characteristics expressed in Jada’s 2019 Strayts from Willow Creek estate; a blend of 85 percent merlot co-fermented with 11 percent petite sirah and 4 percent petit verdot to give that firm tannin structure.
The 2020 Hearst Ranch was also 85 percent merlot supported by 12 percent cabernet sauvi gnon with traces of petit verdot and malbec adding a backbone to the wine.
“I’ve always loved merlot,” announced Sterling Kragten, winemaker at Cass Winery, admitting that he traditionally blended it with cabernet sauvignon. But for his 2018 M&M, he chose 59 percent of malbec to blend with 41 percent of merlot. “It’s soft and delicate; it’s a good marriage.” With a mere 400 annual-case production, the wine sells out fast, Kragten noted.
Don Arndt of his namesake winery also makes a small production of just 70 cases of
98 percent merlot, topped with 2 percent of a variety he admitted he couldn’t recall. Sourced from Penman Springs, the wine is a merlot lover’s dream, a rush of black cherries on the palate, framed by well rounded tannins,
The 2020 LXV was a bolt of hedonistic pleasure. The 57 percent merlot blended with 43 percent cabernet franc showed a generosity of red fruits framed by bright acidity. Kramer Estate Wines’ Laura Kramer offered the 2018 Merlot-Verdot, a plummy deep-hued 50/50 blend of merlot and petit verdot produced from her San Miguel estate in the Estrella AVA. Bill Powell of Powell Mountain Cellars Bill Powell uncorked a 2013 vintage where 46 percent of merlot was joined by malbec, petit verdot, and cabernet franc.
In addition to merlot-dominated blends, there was a good selection of 100 percent bottling. The Daou Family Estates’ 2020 Sequentis was a carousel of black cherries, cassis, and spicy currants with notes of toast oak; the limited-release wine was aged for 18 months in 50 percent new French oak.
JUSTIN’s 2019 100 percent merlot aged for 20 months in 20 percent new French oak was full-bodied and complex with classic Bordeaux characteristics of firm tannins and a rush of red fruits on the palate.
Other impressive Paso merlots included Ecluse, Barton, Austin Hope, Ancient Peaks, Pear Valley, Robert Hall, Donati Family Vine yards, and J.Lohr.
Merlot is one of the most widely planted grapes on the globe and the third leading wine purchased by Americans after cabernet sauvi gnon and red blends, according to The Wine Institute. So this October, give merlot a chance.
Merlot responsibly
Several years ago, my husband and I were coming home from Branson, Missouri, when we spotted a Case Cutlery Outlet. John has been a collector of their beautifully crafted knives for many years, so of course, we stopped. I came home with a wonderful cookbook titled W.R. Case & Sons Cookbook and Historical Compan ion, published in 1996. The cutlery company has been producing hand-crafted knives since 1889. The fascination of the book is that the recipes are from members of the company at all levels and include the associate’s name, department or title,
Ingredients:
11⁄2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons baking cocoa
Directions:
and years of service.
It also included recipes from some of the retirees, one of who had worked for the company for 70 years.
The Letter from the President, George T. Brin kley, stated, “Too often companies are viewed as buildings, products, or machines. In reality, a company consists of people — ordinary folks making a living, raising families, and doing all the things that make life worthwhile.”
He went on to say “Many of our activities seem to revolve around cooking and eating food. What
1 teaspoon baking soda
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
5 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vinegar
Sift the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda and salt into a large bowl. Add butter, vinegar, vanilla and warm water and
Ingredients:
1 (4-ounce) package vanilla instant pudding mix
1 (2-layer) package yellow cake mix
Directions:
we eat often says who we are. Ethnic foods, health foods, fattening foods — they all combine to define our personalities and preferences.”
The proceeds from the book were directed to Big Brothers/Big Sisters of McKean County and the McKean Literacy Team.
Cookbooks such as this are a huge part of our “Americana” and sharing recipes is a wonderful way of communicating with each other here in this country and around the world.
The following recipes from the Case book are for cakes with fun names.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup warm water
mix well. Pour into a nonstick 8×8-inch cake pan and bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cake tests done. Yields 8 to 12 servings.
5 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons sour cream
1⁄2 cup whiskey
1⁄2 cup milk
Combine pudding mix, cake mix, eggs, sour cream, whiskey, milk and oil in a large bowl. Mix well. Layer batter and walnuts
1⁄2 at a time in a greased bundt pan. Stir gently with a spoon several times. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.
Ingredients:
1 bakery angle food cake
2 cups canned pumpkin pie mix
Directions:
Cut cake into 1-inch cubes. Place pumpkin pie mix in medium bowl. Beat whipping cream in large bowl with electric mixer at medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
Spoon one-third of whipped cream into pumpkin pie mix; fold with spatula until blended. Add another third of whipped cream to pumpkin mixture; fold gently until uniform in color. Reserve remaining one-third of whipped
3⁄4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup chopped walnuts
Yields 12 to 15 servings. This next recipe is in honor of October and Pump kin Month. Try it and I know you will receive many compliments.
11⁄2 cups whipped cream black and orange sprinkles
cream for garnish. In a trifle bowl or a deep glass bowl layer cake cubes and pumpkin mixture, beginning and ending with pumpkin mixture. Spread last layer with reserved whipped cream and sprinkle black and orange decorations. Refrigerate until serving time. Makes 8-10 servings.
Enjoy October and all of the fun activities it brings.
Cheers from Barbie Boooooootz !
Paso • Barbie ButzThe parade will start at 10am and run down El Camino Real from Davis Auto Body to West Mall and Palma Ave. by Sunken Gardens.
VFW POST 2814, ATASCADERO
9am-3pm
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2814’s fall car show will be held with an Oktoberfest theme, with proceeds benefiting local veterans and their families.
4pm
Festive Oktoberfest meal with strudel, beer & wine. Live music for dancing by German Umpah band with Cactus Harris. Generously hosted at Harris Stage Lines. German attire and polka dancing are encouraged. Come benefit our north county neighbors in need.
828 14TH ST, PASO ROBLES
The scariest haunted house on the Central Coast is back in a new location! 6000 sqft of chills and thrills. Now in our 11th year. 100% volunteer, proceeds benefit the local community. Visit nightmarefromainst.com for more information.
LIBRARY CONFERENCE ROOM
Register on Sept 22 and pick up materials on Sept 29 for a fun intermediate sewing project of a Black Cat to share on Oct 7. For more info and to register, contact by phone at (805)237.3870 or email kchristiansen@prcity.com
DOWNTOWN PASO
10am
Bring the entire family to see running antique tractors, horse-drawn wagons, marching bands, mounted equestrian groups, dancers, floats, fire engines, vintage cars, and more.
TEMPLETON AMERICAN LEGION HALL
6-10pm
Join us as we honor the volunteers that make our world go ’round and raise some much needed funds for the Department to keep the grass green and the good times coming your way!
LEGACY CHURCH, ATASCADERO
11am-2pm
In addition to 20+ organizations and vendors, a free lunch will be provided, as well as live music. The event is designed to connect seniors and caregivers with the many resources available within our community.
DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES
10am-5pm
Annual Downtown Golden Oak Honey & Pumpkin Festival and Kids’ Flea Market, in the Downtown City Park from. For more information, call the Downtown Paso Robles Main Street office at (805) 238-4103.
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH, PASO ROBLES
4-7pm
Join us for Euro Bungy, Rock Wall, Crafts, Carnival Games, Food truck, BounceHouses, Beer Garden, and more!
Costumes encouraged! (Please leave toy weapons at home) Price: $15 for kids, free for Parents.
ATASCADERO BIBLE CHURCH
3-5pm
The Atascadero Community Band presents their Fall Concert, “Celebrations!” Conductor Randy Schwalbe will lead the band in songs including Exhilaration, In the Mood, Candide Overture, Rhapsody in Blue, and many more.
DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO
4-6pm
Join in on the fun on Entrada Ave in Downtown Atascadero, people and pets of all ages are welcome to come and enjoy family, children, and pet costume contests, hay maze, and of course, Trick or Treating!
PASO ROBLES EVENT CENTER
12pm
Features local crafters and artisans from throughout San Luis Obispo County selling handmade and unique items. Find jewelry, apparel, fashion accessories, home décor, health and beauty products, art, antiques, handmade eats, used items, and more.
CHARLES PADDOCK ZOO
5-8:30pm
Get your best costume ready and bring the entire family out to a not-too-scary evening at Zoo Boo! You can expect Halloween decorations throughout the Zoo along with Carnival games, a costume contest, Halloween activities, a Haunted House, and tricks & treats to enjoy!
DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES
4-7pm
Safe & Fun Trick or Treat Downtown, in Downtown Paso Robles. Costumes required, admission is free. Come take your picture with our witches! Dance Demos, Trick or Treat, and Hot Dog BBQ (fee). For more information, call Paso Robles Main Street at (805) 238-4103.
events are subject to change. Please call ahead or check online for more details.
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
1000 Spring St. • (805) 237-3870 • Mon-Fri 9-7 and Sat 9-4
• Saturday 10/8 The library will be closed all day for Pioneer Day
• Tuesdays
• For all ages, Try It! Tuesday craft kits are available starting Tuesdays (while supplies last) to take home and create.
• Cuentos y Crafts with Cristal at 4-5pm -A special bilingual Story Time and Craft program at the Library Study Center.
• Wednesdays
Join Miss Melissa at 10am in the Story Hour Room for ages 3-6. Enjoy stories, movement, music, and a craft activity.
• Fridays
Toddler Story Time and Craft for ages 1-3 at 10:00 am
October display features abstract ocean scenes from artist Dana Claywell-O’Neal, who finds her inspiration in the ocean and horse worlds. All the artwork in the month’s display was done using a playing card as her brush.
6290 Adams St. • (805) 237-3010
9630 Murphy Ave • (805) 438-5622
254 13th St. • (805) 467-3224
195 N 2nd St. • (805) 237-3009
1st and 3rd Tuesday, 6:30 p
at Council Chambers • 1000 Spring Street
• Senior Citizens Advisory Committee
2nd Monday, 1:30 p at the Paso Robles Senior Center • 321 S. Main Street #C, Templeton, CA 93465
• Parks & Rec. Advisory Committee
2nd Monday, 4:00 p at Centennial Park Live Oak Room • 600 Nickerson Road
• Planning Commission 2nd and 4th Tuesday, 6:30 p at the City of Paso Robles Library Conference Room • 1000 Spring Street
• Paso Robles Democratic Club 3rd Wednesday, 6:30 p
Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce pasorobleschamber.com • (805) 238-0506 1225 Park St., Paso Robles, CA 93446
Templeton Chamber of Commerce templetonchamber.com • Open Thursdays and Fridays 11-3pm (805) 434-1789 • 321 S. Main Street #C, Templeton, CA 93465
Providing support, education and hope 1051 Las Tablas Road, Templeton • (805) 238-4411 • Visit: cscslo.org for more info
Cancer Support Helpline • (888) 793-9355, 6 a.m.- 6 p.m. PST.
Email programs@cscslo.org for Zoom links
• Every Wednesday
• Tai Chi Chih | Virtual via Zoom• 10:00 - 11:00a
• Mindfulness Hour | Virtual via Zoom • 11:30a - 12:30a
• 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month
• Grief Support Group | Virtual via Zoom 1:30p - 2:30p
• 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month
• Adv. Cancer Support Group | Virtual 10:00 - 11:00a
• 2nd Wednesday of each month
• Caregiver Support Group | Virtual 10:00 - 11:00a
• 2nd Thursday of each month
• Cancer Patient Support Group | Virtual 11:00a - 12:00p
• 2nd Tuesday of each month
• Young Survivor Support Group | Hybrid • 6:00 - 7:30pYoung Survivor Support Group | Virtual• 1:30 - 2:30 p
Paso Robles Club #14668 • (805) 238-2410
• Library Board of Trustees
2nd Thursday, 9:00 a at City of Paso Robles Library • 1000 Spring Street
• Airport Commission
4th Thursday, every other month, 6:30 p
at 4900 Wing Way, Paso Robles
For general info, call City Hall M-F 8:00 a - 5:00 p at (805) 227-7276. Visit prcity.com for virtual & up to date meeting info.
• Area Advisory Council
1st Wednesday, 7:00 p at Santa Margarita Community Hall
• 22501 I St. Visit: smaaconline.org for more information.
• Meeting — 2nd & 4th Wednesday, 6:30 p
240 Scott St., Paso Robles • (805) 239-7370
• Hamburger Lunch | Every Thursday, 11 a - 1 p, $6
• Post Meeting | 4th Tuesday, 6:30 p
Paso Robles #10965
240 Scott St. • (805) 239-7370
Paso Robles Lodge 2364 • 1420 Park Street • (805) 239-1411
Paso Robles •1900 Golden Hill Road • Culinary Arts Academy
• Meeting — Tuesday, 12:00 p
Paso Robles Sunrise Courtyard by Marriott, 12 S Vine St. Meeting — every Thursday, 12:00 p
All meetings held at the Broken Earth Wine tasting room.
• Meetings held the 3rd Monday each month.
• Day meeting January, February, November, December at 11:30 am.
• Evening meetings March, April, May, June, September and October at 5-7 pm. Dark July and August. For information prrwfmembership@gmail.com.
Meetings held the 1st Monday each month
• Social hour from 6:15-7:00PM followed by a general meeting and a planned program
at Centennial Park White Oak Room • 600 Nickerson
“ABC” Atascadero Bible Church 6225 Atascadero Mall Atascadero (805) 466-2051
Sunday 8am, 9am, 10:45
Thursday 7pm, Celebrate Recovery
Pastor Jeff Urke
Awakening Ways Spiritual Community 9315 Pismo Ave.
10:00 a.m. at the Pavilion
Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue awakeningways.org (805) 460-0762
Congregation Ohr Tzafon “The Northern Light” 2605 Traffic Way Atascadero, CA 93422
Friday Night Service 7:30 PM (805) 466-0329
Cornerstone Community Church 9685 Morro Road 8:45 & 10:45 AM
Pastor John Marc Wiemann (805) 461-3899
cornerstoneca.org
Hope Lutheran Church 8005 San Gabriel Road, Atascadero 9am Sunday (in-person and livestream on YouTube)
Pastor: Aaron Smith (805) 461-0340 ourhopelutheran.net
Creston Community Church 5170 O’Donovan Road Service: 9:00 a.m.
Pastor JD Megason
True Life Christian Fellowship
Lockwood/Jolon Road, across from the school in Lockwood Service: 9:30 a.m.
Pastor Erick Reinstedt (805) 472-9325
Heritage Village Church
At The Don Everingham Center
Heritage Ranch Service: 10 a.m.
Pastor Brad Brown (805) 712-7265
Hilltop Christian Fellowship 2085 Gateway Drive Heritage Ranch Service: 10:30 a.m.
Pastor Perry Morris & Jerry Gruber (805) 239-1716
Oak Shores Christian Fellowship
2727 Turkey Cove Rd., at the Oak Shores Community Clubhouse Service: 8:30 a.m.
Pastor Jerry Gruber (760) 304-2435
PASO ROBLES2343 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: Sunday at 9 a.m., Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Pastor Aaron Newman (805) 239-4295
Christian Life Center
1744 Oak St.
Service Time: 9:30 a.m.
Home Groups during the week Preschool:
Christian Life Early Learning Ctr.
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) 238-3833
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: 10 a.m. (805)-406-8910
Missionaries: (805) 366-2363
Covenant Presbyterian Church 1450 Golden Hill Rd.
Service: Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
Pastor Dan Katches (805)238-6927
covenantpaso.com
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 a.m.
Pastor Gary Barker (805) 238-3549
Highlands Church
Corner S. River and Niblick | 215 Oak Hill Services: 9-10 am & 10:30-11:30 am
Pastor James Baird (805) 226-5800
Live Oak 1521 Oak St. Service: 10 a.m.
Pastor John Kaiser (805) 238-0575
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. Service: 10 a.m.
Pastor Steve Calagna (805) 239-3325
Paso Robles Bible Church 2206 Golden Hill Rd. Service: Sunday 9:30 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 & Oak Street Service: 10 a.m.
Rev. Wendy Holland (805) 238-3321
Poder de Dios Centro Familiar 500 Linne Road, Suite D Services: Sun. 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.
1215 Ysabel
Robles,
Second Baptist Church
1937 Riverside Ave. Service: 11 a.m.
Pastor: Gary Jordon (805) 238-2011
St. James Episcopal Church 1335 Oak St. Services: 8 a.m. (Rite I), 10 a.m. (Rite II)
Reverend Barbara Miller (805) 238-0819
St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church 820 Creston Rd.
Daily Mass- 12:00 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m.
Tues. 7 p.m. Spanish Saturday 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Spanish Vigil Mass
Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass at 12:30PM
Father Rudolfo Contreras (805) 238-2218
The Revival Center 3850 Ramada Dr., Ste. A-3 Service: 10 a.m.
Pastor Gabe Abdelaziz (805) 434-5170
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
Trinity Lutheran Church 940 Creston Rd. Worship Service: 9:30 a.m. (805) 238-3702
Victory Baptist Church 3850 Ramada Dr. Ste D4 Sundays - 10 & 11 a.m. Wednesday - 6:30 p.m.
Pastor Bruce Fore (805) 221-5251 vbcpaso.org
Victory Outreach Paso Robles 2919 Union Road, Paso Robles, CA
Services: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. Thursday, 7:00 p.m.
Pastor Pete Torres (805) 536-0035
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) 610-9819
Central Coast Center for Spiritual Living 689 Crocker St. Service: 10 a.m.
Rev. Elizabeth Rowley (805) 242-3180
Located at Vineyard Elementary School
2121 Vineyard Dr, Templeton Service: 10 a.m.
Pastor Vern H Haynes Jr. (805) 975-8594
Templeton Presbyterian Church 610 S. Main St. Service: 10 a.m.
Reverend Roger Patton (805) 434-1921
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
Life Community Church 8:30 & 10:30 Sundays
3770 Ruth Way, Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 434-5040
hello@lccpaso.org
Pastor Brandon Hall
Solid Rock Christian Fellowship 925 Bennett Way Service: 10 a.m.
Pastor Jeff Saylor (805) 434-2616
Seventh-Day Adventist Church Templeton Hills 930 Templeton Hills Rd. Services: Saturday 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.
Pastor Zac Page (805) 434-1710
Vineyard Church of Christ 601 So. Main St. Service: 10 a.m.
Evangelist: Steve Orduno (805) 610-4272
Vintage Community Church 692 Peterson Ranch Road Services: 9 & 11 a.m.
Coaches: Aaron Porter, Dayn Mansfield (805) 296-1120
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
Daily Mass: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am Saturday – 4:00 pm (English) Sunday – 7:00 am (English) 10:00 am (Bilingual) 12:00 pm (English) 5:00 pm (Spanish)
Father Lucas Pantoja (805) 467-2131
Shandon Assembly of God 420 Los Altos Ave.
Spanish Service: Sun. 5 p.m., Thurs. 7 p.m. Pastor Jim Mei (805)226-9737
P.O. Box 427 Paso Robles, CA 93447
Phone: 805-237-6060 or office@13starsmedia.com
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 office@13starsmedia.com or call (805) 237-6060. Please include your name, address, phone, service times, and name of spiritual leader of your congregation. Thank you, and stay blessed.
Seventeen U.S. veterans took flight on August 27, in the “Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber,” a restored World War II C-47 aircraft, for an Honor Flight around the Central Coast.
Aboard Betsy were two WWII veterans, one pre-Vietnam veteran who served between Korea and Vietnam, and 14 Vietnam veterans. They came to the Estrella Warbirds Museum in Paso Robles for take-off from areas ranging from Santa Ynez to Paso Robles. All of them have been waiting their turn for an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., for their Tour of Honor.
“The flight yesterday turned out better than we could have expected,” said Flight Coordinator for Honor Flight, Caralee Wade. “Our team at Honor Flight worked hard with the Gooney Birds and the staff at the Warbirds museum in putting it all together, and it all came off without a hitch.”
The flight was gifted to Honor Flight Central Coast California by the Estrella Warbirds Museum and plane owners, the Gooney Birds, to thank the veterans who have been waiting on the long wait list for their Washington, D.C., trip.
Honor Flight Central Coast California is a nonprofit organization that takes veterans to Washington, D.C., for a Tour of Honor trip to see the memorials honoring their service. Honor
Flight took the veterans on a 40-minute tour over Morro Rock and Hearst Castle that day.
“Welcome Home Military came to help welcome them back,” said Wade. “Our commu nities helped at the two piers in Cayucos and San Simeon and even at Heritage Ranch show their support with flags waving as they flew past.”
Waiting for the veterans back at Warbirds was the El Paso de Robles Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR).
“As Regent of the El Paso de Robles Chapter, NSDAR, I was very honored to have our chapter participate in the welcoming home of the Honor Flight this past Saturday,” El Paso de Robles Chapter Regent Susan Howard said. “Seven members of our chapter were able to attend the
Kula
Lansford
Mike
Nick's
Nightmare
Main Street
North
O'Conner
ceremony and honor our heroes.”
Due to covid-19 precautions, Honor Flights were delayed, but flights are now back running.
The Honor Flight organization was originally focused on WWII veterans, but the flights are open to any veteran of any era. Vietnam veterans now make up the biggest proportion of veterans on the flights.
“The veterans exited the plane with big smiles and huge hugs, thanking us for a flight they will always remember,” Wade shared.
The next Honor Flight will be October 24-26 and will be the last one of the year. More details on the flight will be available at a later date.
For more information on Honor Flight, visit honorflightccc.org.
Odyssey
Optometric
Orchard
Paderewski
Paso Robles
Paso Robles District
Paso Robles Handyman
Paso Robles Safe
Paso Robles
Red Scooter
rlender
Robert
Solarponics
Specs
Steve Martin for Paso Robles Mayor
Teresa Rhyne Law Group
The Natural Alternative
The Oaks at Paso Robles/
Westmont
The Revival Center
Wyatt Wicks Finish Carpentry,
