In May of this year, I will officially be a Hearing Aid Specialist for 25 years! I don’t know how these years have gone by so quickly. But I do know how blessed I am to have so many wonderful patients like you. I appreciate your loyalty and support. I have seen many changes in hearing health care, and most have been for the better.
I don’t believe anyone misses the big, uncomfortable, squealing hearing aids we had available back in 1999. They were adjusted with tiny screwdrivers and were not too attractive. Today we have rechargeable aids,
Bluetooth streaming and smart phone apps. Most aids are nearly invisible when worn and are comfortable to wear 12 hours a day. We have a few patients that are still with us from 25 years ago.
To celebrate 25 years, we have a few special offers for you. We called our battery supplier, and they agreed to offer you a special price of $25 for a case for 80 batteries. They are normally $40 so you will save $15. We also have new products that turn your TV or computer into Bluetooth streaming devices, and they are all 25% off!
If you or a loved one are considering new hearing aids, we are also offering $250 off each hearing aid. Some patients like to have an extra pair, or they want to upgrade to something with more features. This year all the hearing aid companies are shaking off the Covid dust and have released new products in the hope of providing more clarity and comfort. Call us today and we promise to get you in within 48 hours, not 6 weeks like the big box stores.
Spring is a good time to call us to have your hearing tested. Let us get your hearing aids cleaned and polished so that you are ready for upcoming trips, graduations, and family gatherings. We service all brands like Phonak, Miracle Ear, Oticon and Starkey. Call our friendly Patient Care Coordinator Abby at (805) 460-7385. She will get you scheduled right away. We hope to see you soon!
Best Regards,
Peter Lucier
P.S. Thank you for your loyalty and support of our family. We appreciate your business and feel grateful to have served you for the past 25 years! Call us at (805) 460-7385.
Paso Robles High School Graduation
By The Editorial team
On June 7, Paso Robles High celebrated 434 graduates, with recognitions for achievements, including scholarships for 80 students. Congratulations to the Class of 2024! California Mid-State Fair
By The Editorial team
It's back! "The Biggest Little Fair Anywhere," themed "Wide Open Spaces," is set to bring 12 days of excitement and loads of fun!
Celebrating Excellence
By Camille DeVaul
San Luis Obispo County's wine community celebrates award winners McPrice Myers, Niels and Bimmer Udsen, and Molly Scott.
Day: July 4, 1776
Directory of our Advertisers
Congratulations Class of 2024
The school year has concluded, and summer has officially arrived! It is time for summer BBQs, pool days, outings to the Ravine Water Park, and relaxing beach days—embrace the warmth and joy of the season.
Our family came together to celebrate Mirac’s graduation from 6th grade—a milestone that marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another as he moves to a new school next year. It’s a poignant reminder of how quickly time passes and the importance of cherishing each moment amidst the busyness of life. They are growing up so fast, and I am truly starting to understand the importance of cherishing each moment amidst the craziness and busyness of life because, before we know it, ten years will have come and gone.
This month, we extend our congratulations to the Class of 2024! Paso Robles High School marked the graduation of 434 students, celebrating their achievements and future ambitions. Valedictorian Gabriella Rose Silva, with an outstanding 4.89 GPA, is set to attend Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, majoring in Biological Sciences. Salutatorian Kalani Jai Gaviola, with a 4.88 GPA, will pursue an English degree at the University of California, Berkeley, in preparation for law school.
Templeton High School also celebrated its graduation on June 6 at Volunteer Stadium, where nearly 200 students received their diplomas. The event spotlighted the class's academic success, with Serafina Jarboe and Tatyana Ilieva named co-valedictorians and Walker Craven honored as salutatorian. Congratulations to all the seniors!
We also celebrate Independence Day and the California Mid-State Fair in this issue. This year, the United States marks 248 years of independence; let us reflect on what has historically united us and aspire to a future strengthened by unity. In a world marked by differences, kindness has the power to bridge divides and enhance our community spirit.
In addition, this year marks the 78th Annual California Mid-State Fair, themed “Wide Open Spaces.” We put together a guide to ensure you are ready to enjoy 12 days filled with fun, music, food, and memorable moments with family and friends!
On July 19, the community will gather at the California Mid-State Fair to celebrate this year’s award-winning wines and distinguished industry members. The event will include a special presentation of the top industry awards, recognizing the Winery, Winemaker, Wine Grape Grower, and Wine Industry Persons of the Year. We extend our congratulations to all the winners.
As we step into this summer of celebration and reflection, let’s draw inspiration from our shared bonds and the joy of collective experiences. Here’s to a season brimming with warmth, community spirit, and inspiring moments. Enjoy your summer; soon enough, we’ll prepare for the new school year!
We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of Paso Robles Magazine.
Hayley & Nic
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. if thou wouldest win immortality of name, either do things worth the writing, or write things worth the reading . — Thomas Fuller, 1727
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August 1, 2024
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July 10, 2024
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8105 Morro Road, Suite A
Freedom's song, Summer's peak
KARYL LAMMERS
Live out loud — it’s July! It’s hot enough to make us start to miss Winter and busy enough to keep us on the move. July is the first month of the last half of 2024.
Happy 4th of July! It’s time to appreciate our freedom and those who gave it to us on this Independence Day. To celebrate their victory over British forces during the War of 1812, U.S. soldiers raised a large American flag at Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland. Poet Francis Scott Key was inspired by seeing this flag after witnessing the fort’s bombardment. He immediately wrote a poem called “Defense of Fort McHenry.” The name was changed to “The Star-Spangled Banner,” set to music, and then became the United States national anthem:
“O say can you see by the dawn’s early early light, What so proudly we hail’d at the twilight’s last gleaming; Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous flight, o’er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming? And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there, O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave, o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?”
This is just the first verse of our national anthem; look up the entire song and better understand the price of freedom and how strong and blessed we really are.
On Thursday, July 4, the City of Paso Robles hosts a celebration and fireworks at Barney Schwartz Park to celebrate our independence. It’s a fun-filled event for all ages beginning
at 2 p.m. Go to travelPaso.com for all the details.
July 5 is the annual Aphelion, when the Earth is at its farthest point away from the sun and still as hot as usual.
We have a couple of quiet weeks before the California Mid-State Fair arrives.
It’s the “Biggest Little Fair Anywhere” and reminds the locals, it’s also the hottest weather we’ve had all year. There is truly something for everyone starting Wednesday, July 17, and ending Sunday, July 28. Paso will be filled with the smell of food, an influx of people and music galore.
Our July super-moon, the Full Buck Moon, appears during the fair on Sunday, July 21.
The name is because the deer’s antlers are fully grown at this time of year. They then begin to shed and produce a larger, more impressive set as the years go by. Take time to enjoy the moon and the night sky.
On Thursday, the 25th, you’re invited to the Downtown City Park for the Annual Free Pancake Breakfast sponsored by the Mid-State Fair and hosted by Main Street Association, from 7:30 until 10:30 a.m.
This breakfast has always been dedicated to our community members by the Mid-State Fair as a thank you for your tolerance with any inconvenience the fair may bring.
The Main Street Association is gearing up for the last half of the year. We have special events every month. We consist of businesses and citizens dedicated to preserving, restoring, and promoting downtown. Come meet the friendly merchants who work hard to offer quality goods, personal service, and competitive prices. We take pride in our downtown so that you will have a nice place to shop. We pride ourselves on always staying positive.
THE NATURAL ALTERNATIVE NUTRITION CENTER
Healthy hydration
During these warm months, it can be difficult to stay hydrated! Taking electrolytes is an easy and excellent way to prolong your hydration throughout the season, which is why we are happy to announce our July Promotion. You can receive 20 percent off of all electrolytes online and in-store here at the Natural Alternative! This will include brands such as LMNT, Ultima, Trace Minerals, Celtic Sea Salt, and our Essential Electrolyte capsules by NutriBiotic. Electrolytes have many benefits and if you don’t already take them, you should consider it especially during the summer season.
Drinking electrolytes promotes hydration on a cellular level because they help cells attract water. Without the proper intake of electrolytes cells have a lower chance of attacking and pulling in the amount of water necessary to gain hydration. The health benefits of drinking water are lost if electrolyte intake is non-existent. This is because water is less likely absorbed by the cells and instead lingers between cell walls, in the blood, and the plasma. The essential minerals that are in electrolytes are also crucial for helping your body generate the energy you need throughout the day. Because the mitochondria in your cells need sodium and magnesium to help convert food into cellular energy, known as ATP, drinking electrolytes could benefit energy levels.
When engaging in exercise or even just being outside while it's hot causes you to sweat. Electrolytes, which maintain your muscle strength, are released through your sweat glands. If you sweat without replenishing your body this
can result in muscle weakness and cramps. Luckily, replenishment of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium can maintain healthy muscle functions. According to a 2019 review in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, electrolytes are what transmit electrical impulses from heart cells to the rest of the body. Having the correct balance of electrolytes can not only support muscle function but also support cardiac muscles.
Staying hydrated this summer is essential and adding electrolytes to your health routine can improve your well-being. The electrolyte brands we carry don’t contain any sugar or artificial sweeteners but do contain science-recommended milligrams of minerals within each serving. We carry electrolytes in the form of capsules, liquid drops, and powder packets. If you want to include them into your daily routine, you can purchase larger packs of electrolytes or try them out in singles. Make sure to head down and check out our selection this July to receive 20 percent off all electrolytes!
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We’re located at 1213 Pine St. in Paso Robles and check us out online at NaturalAlternativeNutrition. com.
Stay tuned for our July 'Let's Learn' events by following us on Facebook and Instagram @ NaturalAlternativeNutrition
We’re wishing you a healthy and hydrated summer, The Team at The Natural Alternative The Team @
The Natural Alternative Shop online with us today at NaturalAlternativeNutrition.com or visit us on Instagram and Facebook
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS 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 SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL COUNSELING WITH A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.
Little White Church
The "Little White Church" has anchored the corner of 13th and L streets since the very early 1900s. It is believed it was built in the late 1800s on the "mesa" (K Street) and moved to its present location before 1920. In its long history, it has served many congregations. Today, it is Fuente de Agua Viva (FDAV), a Pentecostal denomination with bilingual services held at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday mornings. During the service, a children’s Hospitality full ministry for the youngsters is held and a nursery is available for babies. The pastor is the Rev. Michael Duran who, with his family, assumed responsibility for the church in August 2019. He chose San Miguel because he saw future promise and potential in our town.
At the time, the congregation was quite small, and then COVID hit. But Pastor Mike was looking and moving forward. With perseverance, he is currently preaching to an average 65 congregants and sometimes to over 90. There have been a lot of improvements to the building and
property with plans for more. They sponsor an October Harvest Festival and currently have an ongoing plant sale. Pastor Mike is a dynamic and energetic influence for good in the whole town, especially for youth, which he loves. He was born in a small town in the San Joaquin Valley and grew up in Porterville. It was not an easy life; he lost his mother at an early age. When he was in high school he was sent to a Christian camp for troubled youth. Their staff and programs were a strong influence, putting him on a better path. From ages 18-33 he was a California Forest Service firefighter, married, and started a family. He and his family began helping at local churches, and he felt a very strong call to the ministry. They moved so he could enter an Assembly of God seminary. He is certified to preach Assemblies of God and continues to study. Those who hear him benefit greatly from what he learns. On August 17, the church will start a series of bible studies on Wednesdays: one in English from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and one in Spanish at a time to be determined. Pastor Mike, his wife, Angie, and their four children have become very much involved and settled in San Miguel. They are much appreciated for all they do. The "Little White Church" has seemingly always been here. It’s one of the most historic buildings in town. They are both a blessing to the town.
LYNNE SCHMITZ
Local Good People Report
Sometimes people tell us they love our selection of goods, which feels amazing. But just as often, we hear from people that our team is pretty special. There are three of us that own the store, but being open seven days a week, we would be beside ourselves if we didn’t have that team. And so, for the next few months, we’d like to change the name of our column to “Local Good People Report,” in the hopes that you’ll learn a bit about those good people, our chosen family, behind the counter.
Where to start with Kate? Her nickname is KTG (Kate the Great) for a reason. Unload 40 cases of shopping bags into the garage in 103-degree heat? KTG will get it done. Create the most precise and perfect nickname for everyone on the team? How about inventing a tradition we never even knew we needed? (It’s called a Tablecake. A waffle or any kind of treat placed in the center of your table and shared before your meal arrives. Perfect, right?) And she has a gorgeous smile and laugh that just lift you up.
Kate’s fave things in the store include our Hinza Totes and Mexican blankets, which she would put to use in her perfect day by taking them to the beach after a hike and lunch at Hidden Kitchen. Just don’t ruin her ocean time by playing the song “Lovely Day.” Just don’t.
Ez is so talented, maybe we should all be working for her instead. She’s a brilliant illustrator (check the back wall by the kids’ section to see her artwork), and has an eye for displays, products, and loveliness that we continue to be amazed by. Ez’s custom "Howdy Paso Robles" sticker is probably our best-selling sticker ever, and we can’t wait to highlight even more of her design skills. But it’s really her thoughtful, earnest, kind manner that makes her so special to us. Oh, and she’s drop dead hilarious, and the woman can play piano ... by ear!
She and Kate would run into each other on their perfect day, because you’d find Ez at the beach, too, with her daughter, boyfriend, and the cutest pooch in the world. After collecting special shells and rocks, they’d head home for a delicious dinner and live music.
Happy July ... guess we’re all headed to the beach!
— General Store Paso Robles
THE GRADUATION OF 1903: A HISTORICAL SNAPSHOT
By Camille DeVaul and the Paso Robles Area Historical Society and Museum
Terrace Hill, a natural park adorned with oak trees and woodland vines, was the setting for the 1903 Paso Robles High School graduation ceremony and was nothing short of extraordinary. This event is fondly remembered for its unique blend of tradition and culture.
Shakespeare Under the Oaks
One of the highlights of the ceremony was an open-air representation of Shakespeare's "As You Like It," performed by the graduates themselves. This theatrical endeavor added a touch of Elizabethan drama to the otherwise academic occasion, enchanting the audience with its rustic charm and the timeless themes of love and pastoral life.
The Graduating Class of '03
The Class of 1903 consisted of fifteen students whose names are listed below, though the order in the photograph is uncertain:
• Walter E. Brewster
• Bertha Dresser
• Minnie Davis
• Marguerite E. Elder
• Mathilda Engel
• Clytie Exline
• Devota Fisher
• Juanita Fisher
• Homer Hatch
• Evelyn L. Monteith
• Nona Pickering
• Amanda Slater
• Charles H. Stanley
• Paul Speyer
• Harry Wessel
In addition, four students from the Class of 1904 graduated early and joined the 1903 class, though they are not pictured: Homer Rhyne, George Spurrier, Leo Stanley, and Omar Cammack. The class proudly carried the motto "Labor Omnia Vincit," meaning "Work Conquers All," reflecting their dedication and perseverance.
Senior Traditions and Rivalries
A notable tradition among the seniors was the challenge of flying their class colors for 24 hours without the juniors capturing the flag. This playful rivalry added an element of excitement and camaraderie to the final days of the school year. According to a poem from the Junior Journal of 1903 and a news article from the Paso Robles Leader dated May 11, 1904, the juniors succeeded in stealing the flag that year, continuing the spirited custom that was both competitive and fun.
A Glimpse into the Past Information from the Junior Journal of 1903 offers a look into the early beginnings of yearbooks, providing a snapshot of student life and school traditions from over a century ago. This journal, along with the other related documents, paints a picture of a time when graduation ceremonies were grand events celebrated with much fanfare and creativity.
THE GEARHEAD CORNER!
Hi!
Welcome to The Gearhead Corner!
We are here to offer some monthly tips, tricks, and tales from the automotive industry. Whether you are fellow gearheads, garage aficionados, or maybe you think about blinker fluid (Hint, Hint, you don’t have any blinker fluid), we are here for you. We are Jimmy & Leigh-Ann of Shift’N Gears Auto Repair in Paso Robles.
LET FREEDOM RIDE: AH, 4TH OF JULY!
It’s full-blown summertime! It’s a time to celebrate the many symbols of American freedom, and among them, the automobile.
Before cars, people relied on horses, carriages, and railroads. The arrival of the automobile in the United States, most famously the Ford Model T in 1908, changed everything. The Model T was affordable, reliable, and gave ordinary Americans the ability to travel independently. It allowed families to move to the suburbs, where they could own a home with a white picket fence; it allowed Route 66, spanning from Chicago to Los Angeles, to epitomize this sense of adventure and freedom. It wasn’t just a road; it was a journey through America’s heart and soul. It was opportunity!
Destinations like the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, and the sunny beaches of Florida became accessible adventures. The journey was often just as important
as the destination, filled with singalongs, roadside diners, and unexpected detours.
Fast forward to the 1960s and 1970s, a time when muscle cars roared onto the scene. These high-performance vehicles, like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, captured the spirit of rebellion and independence. They were fast, loud, and embodied the youthful energy of the time. Today, cars continue to evolve with advancements in technology. Self-driving cars are on the horizon, promising even more freedom and convenience. Yet, despite these changes, the essence of what makes cars special remains the same: they are a symbol of freedom, adventure, and the endless possibilities of the open road.
As we celebrate the Fourth of July, let’s remember that the story of cars is the story of America. It’s a tale of innovation, independence, and the pursuit of freedom.
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY, AND HAPPY TRAVELS!
Let Shift’ N Gears Auto Repair help you keep your freedom!
Brakes — Tune Ups — AC — Transmissions — Fluid Servicing — Alignments & Everything In Between — We handle it all. Next month, come back to learn about the difference in motor oil.
HEAT Beat the
LELISA HUOT FORMER EDUCATOR, TODDLER PARENT, AND PASO ROBLES RESIDENT
ooking to escape the heat for the day without traveling far away? Here in Paso Robles the average high temperature in July is 92 degrees Fahrenheit and has historically reached 112 degrees. Triple-digit temps can send locals running for the cooler climate of the coast in beach towns along Highway 1. While most seek refuge in the more obvious choices of Pismo, Morro Bay, and Avila, there is a little gem of a village just north of the Highway 46 and Highway 1 junction. Nestled along the rugged Central Coast, Cambria is a picturesque town that captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery, charming atmosphere, and abundant outdoor activities.
Cambria's main attraction is its stunning coastline. The town is situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, providing panoramic views of crashing waves, sandy beaches, and distant mountains. Moonstone Beach, just south of town, is known for its colorful moonstones, which can be found scattered along the shore. Visitors can also explore Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, a 434-acre park
once planned to be a golf course, with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a historic ranch house. The two-mile roundtrip trail provides an easy-going stroll for the kids with the potential to work up a sweat for the adults and has two access points on Windsor Boulevard North and South.
Make a post-hike stop for coffee and ham with cheese croissants from the French Corner Bakery. Located at the corner of Main and Burton, their cases are always packed with mouth-watering treats, pastries, cookies, and cakes. Open seven days a week, this is by far one of the best bakeries on the Central Coast, offering a variety of sandwiches and fresh-baked breads.
After filling up on goodies (or perhaps taking some to go) head to the newly renovated Moonstone Beach Boardwalk for a family stroll. Recently rebuilt to meet ADA standards, the improvements made the boardwalk safer and easier to navigate. One mile in length and bordering the scenic coast between Cambria’s north end to Leffingwell Landing, walking there and back adds up to a two-mile round trip. Relax on one of the wooden benches along the beach park and take in the vast expanse of the ocean and all of its wildlife. Explore the tide pools, watch the sea otters bob with the waves, and search for those famous Moonstones.
The whole family may have worked up an
with a day in Cambria
appetite at his point. The food truck parked at the intersection of Barton and Main serving Boni’s Tacos is known for some of the freshest, most authentic Mexican food around. From al pastor tacos to bean and cheese burritos, they will please everyone in the bunch. Take your feast to Stolo Family Vineyards for a picnic in the meadow. Just a short drive from Main Street, Stolo Winery can be found less than two miles down Santa Rosa Creek Road. Home to a late 19th-century dairy barn & farmhouse, this boutique winery produces coastal Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc. Create fun family memories while feeding the goats, smelling the flowers, and playing a game of cornhole.
Make one last stop at Shamel Park. This six-acre park features beautiful landscaping and direct access to a dog-friendly beach. With two group day-use areas, clean bathrooms, a gazebo, a large playing field, horseshoes, a children’s playground, and a heated, ADA-compliant swimming pool, this oasis is the perfect place to round out your adventure with the family. Leave the beach toys at home! Build driftwood structures or hunt for the many vibrant shells and rocks.
Now for the hard part … which one of Cambria’s many amazing restaurants will you choose for dinner?
Paul Clark: A humble Shandon kid
all attended Shandon High School, helping on the ranch on the side.
Paul says growing up, “it was full-on ranching. I mean, my brothers and I started with 10 shorthorn cows, started our small cow-calf operation, and we worked it over the years. And we worked on neighboring ranches and farms. We were all involved in 4-H.”
When asked what some of his favorite memories of growing up were, he didn’t even need to think about it, “Oh, gosh. The fair. The fair was bigger than Christmas.”
He explained it was “The excitement around it, the excitement of spending that time there with an animal and showing it and taking it through the auction. And it was great fun. So when my kids took animals in the fair through 4-H, it was fun to kinda relive all of that. And watching it, I could see so many parents that I grew up with and that were [there].”
The small community of Shandon offered the quintessential everyone-knows-everyone town feel where Paul remembers everyone looking out for each other.
“Shandon High School was fun. FFA was a big part of my life. I was on the land judging team and we went to national finals in Oklahoma my junior year,” says Paul. “And so it was a really unique, fun community. It seems that all the kids have jobs whether for farmers or something else. It was a great opportunity to learn.”
CBy Camille DeVaul
onveniently situated between Hotel Cheval and the Hotel Cheval Coffee Shop (one of the best in Paso Robles — if you haven’t tried it, tell them I sent you) on Pine Street is a little two-story brick building with green and white accents reminiscent of a “Gunsmoke” era movie set. In gold above the door it reads “Clark Company,” and this is where I entered to then be led to a room trapped in time.
Again, I felt like I was sent into Marshal Matt Dillon’s office (if he had one) with plump vintage couches and wood furniture and saloon-style lamps. On the walls were dozens of family photos and in the corner a singular desk. It was here that I was meeting to interview Paul Clark, our new executive director of the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau. But Paul’s history with SLO County goes back much farther, with a family steeped in agriculture and memories that go as far as the White House.
Paul was born in Ventura County, where his father, William (Bill), was from, and who came from a ranching and cattle and horse background. Bill would eventually become a successful lawyer — more on that later — and was looking to relocate his family. His grandfather, Bob gave some fruitful advice.
“He [Bob] had said, go look at San Luis Obispo County,” Paul said. “And so dad did. He looked around at a number of places and fell in love with the ranch we’re on now that’s still in the family.” Paul further explained his greatgrandfather’s logic that San Luis Obispo County was far enough from the influences of the big cities of Los Angeles and the Bay Area that it would retain its rural character.
When Paul was 5 years old (1969), the family moved permanently to the family ranch located north of Shandon and up McMillan Canyon. Paul thrived in Shandon. He and his four siblings
In the midst of ranch life, Paul’s father was also heavily involved in Ronald Reagan’s office from the start of Reagan’s campaign for California governor. He started as his Ventura County campaign chairman, then became his chief of staff and by the time Paul was a senior in high school, his parents were moving to Washington, D.C., when his father become Reagan’s national security advisor. Bill would then serve as the secretary of the interior and leading up to his Washington stint, he served as a judge in the Superior Court of California from 1969 to 1971, associate justice of the California Court of Appeal, Second District, Division One and in January 1973, Gov. Reagan appointed Clark as an associate justice of the California State Supreme Court, where he served from March 23, 1973, until February 25, 1981 — inevitably giving him the name “Judge Clark” as he is fondly remembered as.
One would think that your dad being in arguably one of the most well-known president’s office and circle of friends, would change the way people treated you. But Paul says life in Shandon, kept him thankfully humble. “You know, friends
being friends kept me humble,” he says. “I don’t feel at least in my day-to-day life with, whether it be friends or school or anything else, I don’t think it really changed.”
Paul did learn a lot about politics during his dad’s time in the White House and history with Reagan. “It made me very conscious of the history of politics, the function of government and the relationship of government to our individual lives,” he says. “It made me realize that there’s a very human side to the people who are in government, whether in their career, they’re elected, or they’re behind all of it. There is a a human being. And especially in today’s media environment it just seems like it’s so removed.”
Paul remembers Reagan as being a very engaging and personable man: “He didn’t feel like this was just some automatic handshake, how are you, and move on to the next person. I think that was a big part of his success is that he could work with Congress in a way that presidents haven’t been able to in a while.”
Following high school, Paul had a quick stint at Cal Poly before deciding to divert and spend four years in the United States Marine Corps. Not ready for the commitment for school — instead learning to fly and working at the Paso Robles Airport — the Marines gave Paul just what he needed so when he came back to the states he was ready to head back to school. Paul ended up graduating from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and McGeorge School of Law and has been an attorney in SLO County
since 1996. He and his brother Pete Clark both used their father’s office building on Pine Street and have kept Judge Clark’s office just as he left it. This June, Paul and his wife Gigi celebrated 31 years of marriage. The two raised four children together here in SLO County.
Paul has been a board member of the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau for 27 years, serving 10 years on the Executive Committee and two years as president. He serves as the vice chair and a member of the Executive Committee of the San Luis Obispo County Farm Supply Board of Directors and is a member of the San Luis Obispo County Cattlemen’s Association and the Estrella Warbirds Museum.
This April, he stepped in as the executive director of the SLO County Farm Bureau, succeeding Brent Burchett, who became executive director in 2019, and has moved back to Kentucky to be closer to family.
“I’m honored to be chosen as the new executive director, having worked with four previous executive directors of our Farm Bureau, I know I have big shoes to fill,” says Paul. “I’m excited to work with so many good friends I have made over the years to continue advocating for California production agriculture, our great state’s most important industry.”
As executive director, Paul is looking forward to building the bridge between agriculture and those outside of it, because we all need agriculture. We need the farmers and the ranchers and everyone in between.
Wyatt Wicks Finish Carpentry, Inc., is dedicated to making homes beautiful with fine carpentry. Our personally, professionally-crafted woodworking will make your home a source of comfort and a space for connection and celebration. We offer unlimited options for your custom projects with unparalleled service.
Please Contact Us for an in-home/business consultation to determine how we can help you with your finish carpentry, furniture and/or door needs.
The Clark Family is shown during a trip to Washington, D.C., while William Clark was in office with Ronald Reagan.
Paso Robles High School Graduation Class of 2024
On June 7, Paso Robles High School celebrated the graduation of 434 students at War Memorial Stadium. This milestone was marked by a series of events and recognitions highlighting the achievements and aspirations of the Class of 2024.
Earlier, on May 30, the school hosted a Senior Scholarship Night at Gil Asa Gym, where 80 students received 151 scholarships totaling $341,260. These awards ranged from $500 to $16,000, including multiyear scholarships and the Montgomery GI scholarship from the U.S. Army.
Valedictorian Gabriella Rose Silva, with an impressive 4.89 GPA, will attend Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, majoring in Biological Sciences. Gabby, who was co-captain and co-MVP of the PRHS golf team and a recipient of the Lion’s Club Sportsmanship Award, aims to become a physician assistant.
Salutatorian Kalani Jai Gaviola, with a 4.88 GPA, will attend the University of California, Berkeley, majoring in English to prepare for law school. Kalani received the Regents’ and Chancellor’s Scholarship, the university’s most prestigious undergraduate award, and was actively involved in various leadership roles at PRHS.
The graduation ceremony featured the Pledge of Allegiance sung by Abigail Williams and the national anthem by Eve Iacovelli. Senior Class President Bianca Rangel played a key role in the traditional turning of the tassels, symbolizing the graduates’ transition from students to alumni.
Photos by Daniel Kulaguz
Templeton High School Graduation Class of 2024
Templeton High School celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2024 on Thursday, June 6, at Volunteer Stadium. The event was marked by nearly 200 students receiving their diplomas from the TUSD Board of Trustees.
The ceremony began with an exceptional rendition of the national anthem by the talented Wallace brothers. A highlight of the event was the flyover tribute by the Estrella Warbird Museum, adding a memorable touch to the celebrations.
Senior Class President James Black presented the senior gifts, which included new benches for the campus and a red carpet emblazoned with their class year. The 2024 Eagle of the Year, Walker Craven, had the honor of performing the traditional turning of the tassels, symbolizing the graduates’ transition from students to alumni.
The academic achievements of the class were highlighted by the recognition of the valedictorians and salutatorian. Serafina Jarboe and Tatyana Ilieva were named co-valedictorians, and Walker Craven was honored as the salutatorian. These three students collectively completed 152 semesters of weighted honors, Advanced Placement, and college coursework, showcasing their dedication and hard work. The night was a celebration of achievement, community, and the bright futures ahead for the graduates.
Photos by Matt Macfarlane
Welcome letersSpacesOpen Wide JULY 17-28
On behalf of the California Mid-State Fair Board of Directors, it is my honor as president of the 16th District Agricultural Association to welcome everyone to the 78th Annual California Mid-State Fair.
We are inviting everyone to join us in “Wide Open Spaces” and enjoy 12 fun-filled days of the Fair. As always, there is something for everyone. This includes the Opening Day Pageant to see who will be crowned the next California Mid-State Fair Queen, all the exhibits, cruise the midway to find the fair food you have been craving all year, enjoy world-class entertainment on the Grandstand, free Frontier Stage, and our fabulous carnival. We are excited to announce this year our final day will be the return of the Monster Trucks!
We are especially excited to celebrate the 4-H and FFA Exhibitors. Visit the north end of the fairgrounds for the livestock and horse shows, and Industrial Art projects. Our local kids have put so much hard work!
We could not put on “The Biggest Little Fair Anywhere” without the overwhelming support of the community, volunteers, and sponsors. The Mid-State Fair Board of Directors and Staff would like to thank each, and everyone involved that make the Mid-State Fair the place to be with our friends and community.
Colleen Bojorquez, CEO
WRobert Boneso, President
ith summer eminent upon all of us, this of course means only one thing … the 2024 California Mid-State Fair will soon swing open the gates for our annual 12-day event. We welcome you as we celebrate this year’s theme “Wide Open Spaces.” Whether you are here to enjoy shopping, stellar entertainment, eat wonderful food, watch livestock or equestrian shows, experience the various exhibits, the thrill of the carnival, or simply wander the beautiful grounds, our staff, Board of Directors, and numerous volunteers have worked diligently to bring you the best of our community. It is with heartfelt thanks for the dedication of all who have enabled us to be the great success that we are in the industry. We hope you have an incredible time at the “Biggest Little Fair … Anywhere!”
Construction is truly a service business
The Most Famous Opera of All Time Produced at Grand Scale!
SATURDAY & SUNDAY OCTOBER 19 & 20, 2024
BOTH SHOWS AT 2PM
A countywide arts collaboration, this epic production will unify artists and other non-profits throughout San Luis Obispo County including Civic Ballet San Luis Obispo, Applause Children’s Theater, several collaborating choruses, and others. Featuring an internationally acclaimed cast of opera stars, expansive ballet, spectacular two-story sets, vivid costumes: the production is directed by Zach Johnson, choreographed by Drew Silvaggio, with the fantastic OperaSLO Grand Orchestra and Chorus conducted by Brian Asher Alhadeff!
highlights Twelve Days Of Fun!
Opening Day
Kick off the Fair this year by joining in on the fun of attending opening day ceremony on Wednesday, July 17, at 3:45 p.m. Main Gate and carnival open at 4 p.m. At 6 p.m., the Miss California Mid-State Fair Pageant on the Frontier Stage, and at 7:30 p.m., country superstar Miranda Lambert on the Chumash Grandstand Area.
NEW ATTRACTIONS
The Fair is excited to welcome new attractions to the grounds this July! The brand new “Magic Fun!” show is a captivating and enchanting event designed to spark the imaginations of children and leave them in awe. Megan the Bubbleologist combines the wonder of science with the artistry of performance to create stunning displays of bubbles in
all shapes and sizes. Finally, the new competition, “Farmer’s Olympics,” takes place on Tuesday, July 23 at 4:30 p.m. in the Hearst Equestrian Center, putting your team’s skills to the test! The timed events include stick horse races, tug ‘o war, milk bottle hay hurdle relay, wooden spoon egg race, and more!
DISCOUNT DAYS
On Seniors Day, Friday, July 19, visitors ages 62 and older get halfoff daily admission! On Kids Day, Friday, July 26, visitors ages 12 and under are admitted to the Fair for free! On Armed Forces Day, Saturday, July 27, visitors with a valid Military ID (active or retired) are admitted to the Fair for free!
CARNIVAL RIDES
The California Mid-State Fair is offering FREE carnival rides to all patrons on Wednesday, July 17, from 4 p.m. until Midnight. Just pay Fair admission, and that’s it! Helm & Sons Amusements will also be offering their “Fast Pass” on-site for $30. The carnival opens at noon on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and at 4 p.m. on all other days.
WATERMELON EATING CONTESTS
Join us on the Headliner Stage at 6 p.m. to watch the exciting Watermelon Eating Contests, presented by Grocery Outlet. Contestants line up with slices of water melon in front of them, ready to devour as quickly as possible! The rules are simple: eat as much watermelon as you can within the set time limit, without using your hands. Open to all ages, with adult supervision. Please note, there are no contests on July 20, July 22 or July 25.
NEW FOOD
Philly Express and Deep-Fried Cheese Curds
Original Philly Sandwich – Steak or chicken, bell peppers, onions with provolone cheese
Buffalo Chicken Philly Sandwich – Chicken, bell peppers onion, provolone cheese in a special buffalo sauce
Garlic Philly Sandwich – Steak or chicken, bell peppers, onions, and provolone cheese in a garlic parmesan sauce
Bacon Chicken Cheddar Philly Sandwich – Chicken, bacon, and onion with a ranch dressing sauce with melted cheddar cheese
Fire Philly Sandwich – Steak or chicken, jalapeno, bell peppers, onion, and pepper jack cheese with a mango habanero sauce
Philly Fries – Sauteed steak/chicken, bell peppers and onions and provolone cheese on a bed of fries
Aaron’s Chicken Shack
Chicken & waffles – Chicken tender with 3 large full-size waffles served with a size of syrup
Chicken sandwich – served with our homemade sauce and pickles
Chicken strips and fries
Buffalo chicken wrap
Original Bratwurst
Dragon Ball Cheese – Succulent meatball and mozzarella on a stick, dipped in batter and coated in panko for an extra crunch and served with the spicy house Dragon Sauce
Loaded Dragon Bombs – Deep-fried jalapeno poppers topped with cheese, bacon bits, jalapenos and the spicy house Dragon sauce
Pickle Pops – Mini dill pickle wrapped in Monterey jack cheese and bacon then dipped in batter covered in panko and deep-fried
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Since 1969, the demand for live entertainment has grown at the California Mid-State Fair, and this year truly has something for everyone. So be sure to get your tickets fast at midstatefair.com.
The Michelob ULTRA Concert Series lineup in the Chumash Grandstand Arena includes:
July 17: Miranda Lambert
July 18: Nate Bargartze
July 19: Sublime with Rome
July 20: Brad Paisley
July 21: Zac Brown Band
July 22: Carin León
July 23: Jelly Roll
July 22:TBA
July 23: The Mavericks
July 24: Slaughter
July 25: Runaway June
July 26: TBA
July 27: TBA
July 28: Voz de Mando
Miranda Lambert
FREE LOCAL LIVE MUSIC
Head over to the Mission Square Stage, Island Stage, and La Cantina to enjoy live music by local artists each day of the Fair.
CATTLEMEN & FARMERS DAY
One of the most special days of the annual Fair, Cattlemen & Farmers Day, pays tribute to our local cattlemen, cattlewomen, and agriculturalists. Join in on the fun Thursday, July 18, celebrating the accomplishments of the Industrial Arts program. Enjoy a fabulous BBQ steak dinner with a glass of wine or beer, and find out who wins the coveted Cattleman of the Year, Cattlewoman of the Year, and Agriculturalist of the Year!
July 24: Nickelback with Dillon James
July 25: TLC & Shaggy with DJ Flashback
July 26: Music & Wine with Cheap Trick
July 27: Country Rodeo Finals
July 28: Monster Truck Madness
Frontier Stage
All shows are free with paid admission to the Fair and start at 8 p.m. The concert series is presented by Five Cities Water Systems.
July 17: Miss CMSF Scholarship Pageant (6 p.m.)
July 18: Legends in Concert Tribute to Elton John
July 19: High Voltage (AC/DC Tribute Band)
July 20: Umphrey’s McGee
July 21: Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles
FREE PANCAKE BREAKFAST
The Annual Pancake Breakfast in Paso Robles Downtown City Park is on Thursday, July 25, from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. Breakfast includes sausage, pancakes, scrambled eggs, orange juice, and coffee. Best part … it’s free!
CMSF DAILY SCHEDULE
The official CMSF Daily Schedule will be mailed to every home in the North County and available in print and online prior to the start of the Fair. Visit midstatefair.com for more details.
Get to know the San Luis Obispo County Wine Awards Winners
by Camille DeVaul
If we are known for one thing around the Central Coast, wine is definitely at the top of the list.
Our world-renowned wines bring thousands to the region yearly and offer us locals mini-vacations whenever we please. Leaders in our local wine industry have made a major impact on our little town.
On July 19, the Central Coast wine community will be celebrating this year’s award-winning wines and wine industry members at the California Mid-State Fair—including a special presentation of this year’s top industry awards for winery, winemaker, wine grape grower, and wine industry persons of the year. The nominations for the San Luis Obispo (SLO) County Wine Awards are sent in by past award winners, and board members from the IGGPRA, Vineyard Team, PRWCA and SLO Coast Wine Collective.
We would like to introduce you to this year’s SLO County Wine Award winners:
Winemaker of the Year
McPrice Myers
McPrice Myers Wines
Over the last two decades, McPrice (Mac) Myers has been crafting wines of depth and balance that showcase the multiple terroirs and climates of the Central Coast—from Santa Barbara to Paso Robles. Mac produced his first vintage in 2002 with half a ton of grapes in a small cooperative in Paso Robles. From that humble beginning, Mac has developed a growing portfolio of wines with broad appeal. In 2014, Mac moved the winery to the current site, which is nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Adelaida District.
What went through your mind learning about being named Winemaker of the Year?
Mac: There are many great people making great wines in this area, so to be acknowledged this way is humbling. The truth is, this is not something I ever saw in my future, and ultimately I’m just very fortunate to be a part of this community and doing something I love.
How would you describe yourself as a winemaker?
Mac: My ultimate goal is to make singular wines—wines that you know come from here, and reflect what we do and the approach we take. Everything for me is very sensory—it’s all feeling and intuition when I make decisions. I try to be dynamic in my approach to making wine, honoring the vintage and terroir while developing a sense of balance and depth. I’d say my approach is similar to how a chef approaches cooking: you start with well-farmed ingredients, treat them with respect, and end up with a great product.
How has the wine industry in Paso Robles impacted you?
Mac: The industry here has had a massive impact on me. The community embraced me from the beginning, has been accepting and supportive of me, and allows me to do the thing I’m most passionate about: make wine. I’m privileged to work with great growers and work among the incredibly talented people who have made Paso Robles into the place it is today. In my opinion, it’s one of the best communities in the wine industry. It is truly a very embracing place to make wine.
Winegrape Growers of the Year
Niels and Bimmer Udsen
Castoro Cellars
Bimmer and Niels Udsen founded Castoro Cellars in 1983, embarking on a journey in viticulture with a commitment to sustainable, organic, and biodynamic farming. Bimmer convinced Niels of the merits of organic farming, leading to their vineyards being certified over 20 years ago. Today, they manage 1,600 acres across 13 vineyards in the Paso Robles appellation, making them the largest organic vineyardists on the Central Coast and potentially in California. All their vineyards are 100 percent SIP and CCOF certified. Their eco-conscious practices include solar farms, direct sun pump irrigating, electric tractors, and pioneering mobile bottling services.
The Udsens’ dedication to sustainability extends to fostering a collaborative wine industry community. Castoro Cellars’ wines are estate-grown from organic grapes, and the Udsens support like-minded producers, sharing knowledge and resources. Their commitment to community is evident through initiatives like the Whale Rock Music Festival, benefiting Templeton High School Band, and supporting local musicians and recreation programs. The creation of the Whale Rock Disc Golf course further illustrates their dedication to both viticulture and their local community. The Udsens’ efforts have not only advanced organic farming but also strengthened community ties and industry collaboration.
Industry Person of the Year
Molly Scott
JUSTIN Vineyards and Winery
A force in representing the Wine Country of Paso Robles, Molly’s energy and dedication are boundless. Her influence flows through every aspect of Paso Robles Wine Country, from her role on the CAWG board to her active involvement in local fundraising for nonprofits and tireless advocacy for agriculture. Molly’s passion for the region fuels the Paso brand, bridging the gap between growers and consumers and ensuring that the community’s vibrant spirit is ever-present in her efforts. Her relentless commitment has made Paso Robles a thriving, united, and celebrated wine destination.
Beyond the vineyards, Molly leads significant initiatives like the Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship, which supports students with parents in the wine industry, and she champions women in viticulture, bringing together over 30 women in the Paso Robles community. Molly also serves on multiple boards, such as the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance, contributes to The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG), and co-chairs the Cal Poly Wine and Viticulture Advisory Board.
What went through your mind learning about being named Industry Person of the Year? How does this impact you?
Molly: When I received the phone call, I was genuinely surprised! I was flattered to just be nominated. It wasn’t until I phoned my Mom and Dad to share the news and explain to them what the award was and who the voting committee is that it really began to sink in. To be recognized by past award winners and current industry members that I look up to and am inspired by is very fulfilling, it’s an honor.
How has the wine industry in Paso Robles impacted you?
Molly: It’s hard to envision working and living somewhere other than in Paso Robles. This wine industry is truly unique and provides incredible opportunities for those willing to invest themselves in giving back. I enjoy volunteering my time with different organizations and leading initiatives that provide scholarships to students and mentoring women in viticulture. Whether it’s supporting graduating students from the Cal Poly Wine & Viticulture department, to ensuring vineyards are heard and represented on a State and Federal level, to promoting the Paso Robles wine region with the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance—I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of this community which has been incredibly fulfilling.
The Wine Industry Awards & Tasting will take place on Friday, July 19, at 5 p.m. on the Mission Square Stage at the California Mid-State Fair. For more information, visit midstatefair.com
DBy Blake Ashley Frino-Gerl
eveloped to fulfill the need for a high-end community tennis club in the North County, the Templeton Tennis Ranch (TTR) has been providing an exceptional country club experience since its opening in March 2015. With five lighted tennis courts, eight lighted pickleball courts, four bocce courts, a wine bar, fitness center, and new pool, TTR has been a focus of community fitness.
The club, owned by Ralph Goehring and Chris Fouquet, was awarded the United States Tennis Association's Outstanding Facility Award in 2023. Fouquet says, “We enjoy meeting and exceeding our members’ and guest’s expectations of a premier tennis club!”
TTR’s staff professionals offer lessons, clinics, yoga classes, and personal training. TTR hosts the annual Central Coast
Tennis Classic, an ITF World Tennis Tour/USTA Pro Circuit women's $60,000 tournament. Bringing in some of the world's top female tennis players at the end of each September, “Players are typically world-ranked in the top 100 to 300, and most are fresh off playing at the U.S. Open, Wimbledon, and the other Grand Slam opens,” Fouquet explains. This year's event is September 23-29.
Coming this August is an eight-lane, 25-yard competition lap pool available to members and accompanied guests. TTR will have year-round lap swim, aqua fitness classes, swim lessons, swim team, plus open/family swim summer sessions.
TTR frequently partners with Templeton Recreation Department, hosting various youth programs. The pool will be home for Templeton High School Swimming, while
their tennis team often shares TTR’s courts for practices and is where the varsity team plays home CIF matches.
While TTR is a member’s facility, non-members are welcome with a day-use fee, varying by activities. Services like Pilates, massage and Myofacial Release Therapy have separate pricing. Noted on ttrtennis.com, Goehring believes "community is crucial to human spirit, and we created TTR to be a safe place for children and families to gather, as well as adults of all ages.”
For over three decades Chandra Corley has incorporated her unique techniques in massage therapy. Her business gives her full reign to embrace her seasoned knowledge that helps and heals her clients.
“When you are my client, we are going to have a relationship,” Chandra said. “My work is very intuitive, and people find it to be a central part of their overall wellness. Many years ago, I set my intent on making my services accessible and affordable. Massage is best when it is done regularly; 95 percent of my clients are on a program or regime.”
Born and raised in SLO County, Chandra focuses on customizing the massage to the body so that it will be beneficial both
physically and emotionally for her clients. She upgraded her certifications with the California Massage Therapy Counsel and is a member of the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals. Her knowledge stems from being certified through Wellspring School of Massage and receiving continuous education through the Esalen Institute, Santa Barbara Body Therapy, and the California Holistic Institute.
“Massage is good for so many obvious reasons — it can relieve tension, muscle aches, stress, lower blood pressure, improve circulation — but it’s also good for helping with depression, anxiety, bereavement, loss, and transitions,” Chandra explains.
Chandra can meet the needs of her clients with Swedish, Esalen, or Reflexology
(805) 712-5393
bobsprain.com Bob@bobsprain.com
specialties. In addition, clients can request massage add-ons, including sea salt glows, hot stones, foot rejuvenation treatments, and spa facials, as well as her exclusive Pampered Package.
“My goal has always been to make people feel like they were 100-percent cared for, inside and outside, when they trust me with their time,” Chandra adds.
Chandra also helps in promoting local musicians and with nonprofits such as The Women’s League of Voters, Central Coast Guitar Society, and The Go See Foundation.”
CHANDRA CORLEY MASSAGE THERAPY 945 Spring St., Suite 8, in Paso Robles (805) 441-3989
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PROTECTING your home during wildfire season
Wildfire season is upon us, and it’s important to prepare your home and property the best you can. Sadly, wildfires are a reality for Californians. It’s not a question of if they will occur, but when. It’s extremely important that Californians be prepared when wildfire strikes. For this article, I relied on the expertise of our in-house agent, Baxter Boyington. In addition to being a realtor, he also works for the SLO Fire Safe Council as the Focus Group Coordinator.
Jumping in, we’ll discuss the importance of creating and maintaining defensible space and hardening your home by retrofitting it with ignitionresistant or non-combustible materials to protect against the threat of flying embers, direct flame contact, and radiant heat exposure. By preparing your home and property for wildfire you can dramatically increase your safety and the survivability of your home. It is your responsibility to prepare yourself, your family and your home for when wildfire strikes.
There are three ways your home can be exposed to wildfire: through flying embers, direct flame contact, and radiant heat exposure. Embers are the main cause of homes igniting during a wildfire. Wind can blow embers up to a mile ahead of the wildfire. These flying embers can ignite vegetation or combustible materials near a home resulting in a subsequent fire that spreads to the home through direct flame contact or radiant heat. Direct flame contact is when wildfire burns, unchecked, directly to the building and eventually causes the building to catch fire. Radiant heat exposure occurs when there are materials, vegetation, or other combustibles that are burning close to the home — for a long enough period of time — and generate enough heat to directly ignite the home.
Getting ready for a wildfire begins with two very important efforts: home hardening and defensible space. Hardening your home is retrofitting it with fire-resistant materials. Defensible space is creating and maintaining a buffer between buildings and vegetation to slow wildfire. While not a guarantee that your home will survive a wildfire, these efforts give it the best chance.
Let’s discuss some of the ways you can retrofit your home to harden it against wildfire. Your roof is the most vulnerable part of your home. Homes
with wood shake or shingle roofs are at a high risk of being destroyed in a wildfire. They can be replaced with a Class A fire-rated roof, using materials such as composition, metal, or tile. If replacing your roof isn’t an option, it is good practice to inspect your roof and maintain it by removing debris and plugging all gaps. Vents around your home create openings for fire embers. Consider covering all vent openings with a corrosion-resistant metal mesh screen. You should also consider covering your chimney or stovepipe with similar materials. Eaves and soffits are another point of entry for flying embers. It is a good idea to plug or caulk all gaps greater than ⅛ inch in size with a durable caulk. Decks and fences should be built with ignition-resistant or noncombustible materials when possible. All combustible materials from both underneath and on top of a deck when a wildfire is burning nearby should be removed. Adding screens, enclosing or cleaning out rain gutters will prevent the accumulation of plant debris. Installing weather stripping to eliminate gaps around garage doors prevents embers from flying inside. Clearing and maintaining the vegetation around your driveway to ensure access to your home is very important. Also, having multiple garden hoses that are long enough to reach all the areas of your home is good practice to harden your home against wildfires.
Creating and maintaining defensible space is essential to reducing the impact of wildfire on your home and property. Defensible space is the buffer created between a building on your property and plants, brush, trees, or other combustible items in the near vicinity. This buffer helps to keep wildfire away from your home by reducing the fire’s intensity and slowing or halting the spread of wildfire. The less there is to burn near your home, the less exposure your home will have to wildfire. Creating this space also provides protection for the firefighters defending your home.
A minimum of 100 feet of defensible space around your home is required by the state of California. However, your hometown will often have more stringent defensible space guidelines to adhere to. Please check with your local fire department or city office for any additional defensible space requirements and best practices.
It takes the combination of both defensible space and home hardening to give your home and property the best chance of surviving a wildfire. Following the above steps could be the deciding factor on whether or not your home will stand against a wildfire. It is important that you are prepared before wildfire strikes.
The information in this article was found in the Cal Fire publication titled “Wildfire Is Coming. Are You Ready? WILDFIRE ACTION PLAN.”
Spectacular 4th of July
TGINA FITZPATRICK PRESIDENT & CEO PASO ROBLES CHAMBER
he Paso Robles and Templeton Chamber of Commerce is gearing up to host a spectacular 4th of July celebration in Templeton Park, a much-anticipated event aimed at bringing the community together and celebrating the nation's independence. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering community spirit, supporting local businesses, and creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike.
One of the primary reasons for hosting the 4th of July celebration in Templeton Park is to strengthen community bonds. The event provides an opportunity for residents of Paso Robles, Templeton, and surrounding areas to come together in a festive atmosphere. In a time where digital interactions often replace
Celebration planned in Templeton Park
face-to-face communication, such events are crucial for nurturing real-life connections and fostering a sense of belonging. The celebration encourages people to meet their neighbors, share in patriotic spirit, and collectively honor the country’s history and values.
Another significant motivation behind this event is the support it offers to local businesses. By hosting the celebration in Templeton Park, we aim to attract a large crowd, providing local vendors and businesses with a platform to showcase their products and services. Food stalls, booths, and other local enterprises will benefit from the increased foot traffic and visibility. This economic boost aids in the growth of small businesses in the area.
This celebration promises a day filled with cultural and recreational activities. From live music performances to bounce houses and vendors, the event is designed to offer something for everyone. Such celebrations not only entertain but also educate attendees about the
historical significance of Independence Day, fostering a deeper appreciation for American heritage. The park’s family-friendly environment ensures that people of all ages can enjoy the festivities in a safe and enjoyable setting.
Hosting this celebration is also a way to enhance civic pride. We recognize the importance of civic engagement and patriotism in building a vibrant community. By organizing a well-coordinated and exciting 4th of July event, we aim to instill a sense of pride in residents. It’s a chance for the community to come together to celebrate their collective identity and achievements, reinforcing a shared sense of purpose and optimism for the future.
Our decision to continue to host the 4th of July celebration in Templeton Park is driven by a desire to unite the community, support local businesses, provide cultural enrichment, and enhance civic pride. This event is more than just a celebration; it is a testament to our dedication to creating a thriving, interconnected, and vibrant community.
Introducing San Luis Obispo County's new undersheriff
By Ian Parkinson
San Luis Obispo County Sheriff
As sheriff of San Luis Obispo County, my name is on the door. But this job could not be done by just one person. That’s why I’ve got a great team helping me. From deputies, correctional deputies, legal clerks, technicians, civilian staff, and many more.
But there’s one position which doesn’t get a lot of recognition and yet it is invaluable to the mission of the Sheriff’s Office. And that’s the position of undersheriff. The undersheriff or “US” for short serves as my second-incommand. That position provides complex administrative and operational support to the sheriff and to serve as backup in my absence. I’ve always worked closely with my undersheriff. And that’s why I am sad to announce the retirement of my undersheriff, Jim Voge.
US Voge is my third undersheriff since I first took office in 2011. All my undersheriffs have
done an amazing job. US Voge holds a special place with me because he was the first person I hired after I assumed office. He started the Professional Standards Unit and changed many policies and procedures that benefited all of us. He has mentored many people along the way, and he will be missed by many people here.
Replacing someone like Jim Voge is no small task. But after considering many excellent candidates, I selected Commander Chad Nicholson to be the next undersheriff. This promotion, set to take effect in August, aims to bring long-term stability to the department.
Commander Nicholson is a homegrown talent, a sixth-generation resident of San Luis Obispo County. His family roots run deep, dating back to the late 1800s near San Simeon. Nicholson graduated from Morro Bay High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly. His law enforcement career began at the Allan Hancock Law Enforcement Academy in 2011, where he graduated as valedictorian. He started as a patrol deputy, later becoming a senior deputy and field training officer. In 2015, he transitioned to the Detective Division as a Major Crimes detective. He was promoted to sergeant in 2017, overseeing critical units like Major Crimes and Special Victims. Notably, Nicholson played a pivotal role in the Kristin Smart case, which led to the arrest and prosecution of Paul Flores.
In 2021, he took on the role of commander, heading the Professional Standards Unit and overseeing all administrative investigations and training programs. He returned to the Detective Division in 2023, overseeing multiple investigative units, including Major Crimes,
Proudly serving all of the San Luis Obispo County
Special Victims, and the Narcotics Unit.
“I am honored and excited to take on the role of undersheriff,” Nicholson said. “I look forward to continuing the great work of Undersheriff Voge, who has been a huge mentor in my law enforcement career. I aim to further our commitment to professionalism, transparency, community engagement, and excellence in law enforcement.”
And while I am saddened by the news of US Voge’s retirement, I am excited to see him start the next chapter of his life with his wellearned retirement. And likewise, I am excited for Commander Nicholson’s new chapter in his life. I am confident he will be a great addition to the executive team. Please join me in welcoming the new undersheriff this summer. We are confident that his leadership will strengthen our department and enhance our service to the community.
CHAD NICHOLSON
Paso Robles commemorates D-Day
with inaugural Sherman’s Legacy Flight
By Camille DeVaul
Thursday, June 6, marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day — when United States military and other allies landed on the beaches of Normandy in France and led to the liberation of France from the Nazis, which served as a turning point in World War II. This year also marked the first Sherman’s Legacy Flight, a commemorative event dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of Sherman Smoot.
The flight is in partnership with Honor Flight Central Coast (Honor Flight). Sherman was a devoted supporter of the nonprofit, which is dedicated to honoring veterans by providing them with an opportunity to visit memorials in Washington, D.C., free of charge. This annual tradition, set to take place every year on the anniversary of D-Day, honors Sherman’s memory and the bravery of all veterans.
In September 2022, Sherman lost his life in a plane accident in Kern County. He was born into an aviation family in San Luis Obispo on July 29, 1948. His father pioneered the aerial pipeline patrol industry in California. Adding to his aviation destiny, Sherman was initially raised on the original Paso Robles airport.
He then entered the aviation industry for himself in 1971 when he entered flight school in Pensacola, earning his wings the following year. Sherman excelled as a Navy aviator, piloting F-4Js from the USS Ranger Aircraft carrier in the Tonkin Gulf. Some would say his life paralleled the likes of characters in “Top Gun” and “Top Gun: Maverick.”
The inaugural flight took local veterans aboard the Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber (Betsy), which calls the Estrella Warbirds Museum home and can be seen flying over Paso Robles nearly every weekend. Now owned by the Gooney Bird Group in Templeton, Betsy is actually a C-47 first accepted into the U.S. Army Air Force on Sept. 4, 1944. She served in the 9th Air Force in Europe but was too late into service for D-Day.
Betsy’s name comes from her time in the Berlin Air Lift in 1948. In later years, the plan served with the Belgian, French, and Israeli air forces until retirement in the early 1990s. Many planes from the wartime era were converted for civilian transportation, including the Spirit of Benovia. However, Betsy was never converted, and remains one of the most authentic planes of her kind still flying.
On Thursday, Betsy took off at about 11 a.m. from the Estrella Warbirds Museum for a 40-minute tour over Morro Rock and around Hearst Castle before returning to the museum. Supporters of Honor Flight and veterans waved flags on the Cayucos and San Simeon piers. A crowd was waiting for them back at the Warbird Museum with American flags in hand.
Many of the veterans on board served during the Vietnam War and did not receive a happy welcome home back to the states.
A father, his son, and son in law were on Betsy for the local Honor Flight on Thursday. Robert Barrios, 88, served in the Korean War in 1953 with the 40th Division. He then went into the United States Air Force for five years and has a total of
eight years of service. Barrios still runs his dump truck business hauling and avidly works in his yard.
His son, Bill Lathrop, served in the United States Army in Vietnam, stationed in Quy Nhon from 1969 to 1971. And Owen Betts, Barrios’s son-in-law, served in the United States Air Force and was at several stations throughout his career from 1967 to 1971.
The local Honor Flight was especially meaningful to Lathrop. “It meant a lot,” he said. “Being able to go up with Dad. We couldn’t go back to Washington due to health and stuff like that, but this was just as good.”
Barrios was especially happy to be on the flight with his sons and to meet the other veterans on board, expressing his gratitude for all of them.
This was the first Honor Flight for all of them and a welcome home was not something they had received following their service.
“When I first got back from Vietnam, traveling out of Washington back to California, [there was] a lot of hassle in the in the air terminal,” Lathrop described his experience. “But me and the two other guys I was with, they came and got us and made us leave because, you know, we were causing trouble. We didn’t do anything, but I’m glad that’s behind us.”
In a press release, Honor Flight said, “A heartfelt thank you goes to the family of Sherman Smoot for their generosity and dedication to honoring Sherman’s legacy through this commemorative flight. Honor Flight Central Coast is truly honored to pay tribute to Sherman Smoot and celebrate his legacy and the bravery of our veterans.”
Friends and relatives of Sherman’s Legacy Flight passengers hold U.S. flags on June 6 while greeting Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber at the Estrella Warbird Museum. Photos by Derek Luff Sherman Honor Flight • Oak Leaf
Alternative Tastes Wine Fest co-chairs: Brecon Estate's general manager, Rachael Fischer, and founding winemaker, Damian Grindley, are shown with Denise and Scott Schramm, owners of CRUSH Vineyard.
AAlternative Tastes Wine Fest:
A
celebration of unique wine grape varieties
lbariño and Tannat — together again for the first time!
What, you ask, are Albariño and Tannat? A Spanish vaudeville act? Well, no, they are two grapes brashly edging into wine conversations on the Central Coast. They were also the headliners at the Alternative Tastes Wine Fest staged June 8 at Broken Earth Winery in Paso Robles.
Nevertheless, aren’t these two a bit of an odd couple? Not at all, insisted Damian Grindley, founder and co-chair of the festival and founding winemaker of Brecon Estate winery, which partnered with CRUSH Vineyard to present the festival.
“It’s not an odd couple as [they] are very close to each other geographically,” Grindley declared. “They do overlap just a little bit.”
Yes, geographically speaking, the two growing regions are indeed snuggled between southern France and northern Spain.
Albariño, a crisp refreshing white wine with a zippy acidity, hails from Galicia’s Rias Baixas region in northwest Spain. Tannat is a robust deep-hued red wine redolent with plum and licorice notes flexing grippy tannins. Originally native to the Basque region, it’s principally known in the foothills of the Pyrénées appellation of Madiran in southwest France.
“They do seem to be trending varieties and have a little buzz on Central Coast,” notes Grindley. With just 72 acres of Tannat and 76 acres of Albariño planted in San Luis Obispo County (SLO), according to the 2023 grape acreage report by the California Department of Food & Agriculture, this duo is now demanding attention.
The concept of the Alternative Tastes festival was born out of two separate events hosted by Brecon: an Albariño Summit (which had a life span of four festivals from 2016-2022) and occasional Tannat industry tastings.
Enter Denise and Scott Schramms who were much impressed by their Tannat tastings at Brecon. The couple had acquired a five-acre Adelaida District vineyard in 2019 which had original plantings of Tannat and Tempranillo dating back to 2007. They released their first vintage of 2021 CRUSH Vineyards wine crafted by Tyler Russell.
By December 2023, the couple was convinced that they had enough Tannat to spearhead a festival. They approached Grindley, who was inspired to combine his Albariño Summit reboot with Tannat, thus giving birth to the Alternative Tastes Wine Fest.
Among the two dozen wineries pouring at the festival were Allegretto, LaZarre, Bushong Vintage Company, Cairjn Wine Cellars, Brij, Emercy,
Lone Madrone, Rava and Shale Oak. A VIP welcome experience was held the night before at Brecon Estate.
Grindley is passionate about producing four different Albariño bottling. Brecon’s flagship True Acacia Head is floral with richness on the palate. The Last Sandwich gets blended with a splash of Viognier. A minerally Edna Valley and a crisp and citrusy SLO Coast AVA blend from multiple vineyards round out Brecon’s Albariño lineup.
“They all have different personalities,” Grindley commented on his award-winning wines. “Albariño has been good for us.”
While most Central Coast winemakers source their Albariño grapes from SLO Coast AVA, specifically the Edna Valley region, namely Jack Ranch and Spanish Springs, there are a handful of vineyards in Paso with minuscule Albariño plantings. On the west side, there’s Derby and Castoro Cellars. Bovino, Barr Estate, and Pear Valley on the east side.
That Tannat ever got planted locally is due to the audacity of a nursery manager in France. “We were definitely the first [to plant Tannat] in SLO County,” confirmed Jason Haas, the partner and general manager of Tablas Creek Vineyards, in an email exchange.
With the renowned Perrins family of Château de Beaucastel in Chateauneuf-du-Pape as their partners, Tablas Creek pioneered Rhône planting in Paso when they imported seven initial varieties in 1990 from France. Yet Tannat is not a Rhône variety. Nonetheless, it arrived in the US in 1992 with another batch of Tablas Creek orders for Rhône grape cuttings.
“It was the manager of that nursery who decided (without asking or telling us or the Perrins) to send the vines to us because he thought they would thrive in Paso Robles,” Haas noted. “And he was right!”
By 1996, Tablas Creek multiplied, grafted and planted Tannat vines and in 2001 the winery began receiving orders for Tannat plants from vineyards in California, Arizona, and Virginia.
“So many people coming to our tasting room have heard of Tannat but never tasted it. It’s more on people’s radar,” Denise commented on their flagship 2021 Tantalize, a 100 percent Estate Tannat.
Scott added, “There’s nobody in Tin City that's doing estate grown Tannat.” In addition to varietal Tannat, the grape is also blended with other 2021 vintages: with Petite Sirah and Tempranillo in Ellipsis and with Syrah and Viognier in Impromptu.
Net proceeds from the VIP dinner and grand tasting plus 100 percent from the silent auction benefitted the newly established Flag Ranch, a nonprofit organization with a mission to help horses and people.
LOCALLY MADE BACKYARD BARBEQUE
By BeeWench Farms
Another wonderful and easy snack in the summer heat is watermelon. I love to have it cut up and available in the fridge and I’ve also frozen some pieces for a refreshing treat. It’s perfect for teething babies and kids who need to cool off from playing outside. The cucumber watermelon salad is so refreshing in the summer and can be served alongside anything you are grilling up or take it along as a snack, lunch, or delicious potluck side.
If you have only ever eaten the frozen beef patties at your barbecues, you’re in for a treat if you try this burger recipe. Our favorite toppings are juicy tomatoes, cheese, sauteed mushrooms, onions, and lettuce. Personally, I love a pineapple ring that is barbecued on mine. I also love some homemade mayo and the dill Dijon mustard from Olivas de Oro to top them off. If you like heat, try the Spicy Fromage Blanc from Stepladder Creamery as a spread on your burger or dip for your veggies. If you are looking for locally raised beef, we have many great options here. Visit Debbie at the Charter Oaks Style Meats on Saturday in Templeton for some of the best ground beef for a juicy burger. If you’re looking for chicken, eggs, or pork, come visit DJ at the BeeWench Farm booth at the Tuesday market in Paso Robles. If you make your own mayo, having quality, pasture-raised eggs is very important. By supporting your local farmers and ranchers, you support local farm families that are striving to provide you with the best and healthiest meats. If you are looking for in season produce to nourish you and your family, here are some things available at the markets right now:
• ½ cup crushed up tortilla chips (sub gluten free crackers or chips)
• 1 egg (sub with flax egg if needed)
• 1 tbsp coconut aminos
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Recommended Toppings:
• Heirloom Tomato
• Mushrooms (Uncle Mike’s)
• Lettuce
• Onions
• Cheese (Stepladder Creamery)
• Homemade Mayonnaise
• Avocado (Dragon Springs Farm
• Dill Dijon Mustard (Olivas de Oro)
1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix using your hands. Mix until just combined without over-working the meat.
2. Form the meat into six 1/3 lb patties about 1-1 1/2 inches thick.
3. Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 + minutes. You can also stack them on parchment paper and put them in a ziplock bag for easy transportation.
4. Heat your grill to medium heat. Cook the burgers for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the desired internal temperature has been reached.
5. Top with your favorite toppings and serve on your favorite buns or wrapped in lettuce.
Notes
Air Fryer Burgers: To make these burgers in the air fryer, form the meat into 8 smaller patties. Preheat your air fryer to 370. Cook in batches so the patties are not overlapping. Cook the patties for 6 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes. If topping with cheese, add it and cook for 1 additional minute.
Freezing: I recommend taking the uncooked beef, forming your patties, and freezing the patties in a freezer-safe, airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper for easy patty removal. Defrost overnight in the fridge and grill as directed.
Ingredients
• 1 watermelon cut into cubes
• 1 peeled cucumber cut into cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil (lemon or basil oil from the Groves on 41)
• 2 large mint leaves chopped
• 2 large basil leaves chopped
• 2 limes juiced
Instructions:
Optional add-ins:
• 1 jalapeno seeds removed, finely diced
• Feta cheese
1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
2. Refrigeration prior to serving is ideal, but not required.
Watermelon Cucumber Salad
• Repair
• Free In Store Water Testing
• Sweep Repair & Pump Rebuilds In Store
• Spa sales
• Inflatables/ Pool Toys
• Custom Tumblers, Apparel & Gifts
San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Rodeo
The third annual San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Rodeo, held on May 11 at the Paso Robles Event Center, saw record attendance and honored retiring Undersheriff Jim Voge for his 50 years of service. The event featured various rodeo competitions, including bull riding, team roping, and barrel racing, with over 100 contestants. Notable performances included PBR National Finals bull rider Aaron Williams, who won the bull riding event.
The rodeo introduced a new Fan Zone with vendors, a mechanical bull, and autograph sessions, enhancing the experience for attendees. Rodeo President Commander Chad Nicholson highlighted the strong community support and positive feedback from both participants and spectators. The ethos of the event is to provide an affordable, family-friendly atmosphere, with ticket prices kept at $10 for adults and free admission for children.
Voge's recognition at the rodeo celebrated his extensive law enforcement career, which began with the LAPD and culminated in his role as undersheriff in SLO County.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Sheriff's Advisory Foundation, supporting local law enforcement agencies. The rodeo concluded with a concert by Annie Bosko, adding to the festive atmosphere. For more details on future events, visit slosheriffsrodeo.com.
Photos by Chuck & Vikki Houck
JULY Calendar of Events
EVERY MONDAY-FRIDAY UNTIL FALL
LAVENDER U-PICK
HAMBLY FARMS, 1390 GRANA PLACE, SAN MIGUEL
10am-4pm
For $15 per person (children under 12 are free with adult) you can visit the farm and pick enough lavender to make one bouquet. After harvesting your lavender, find a cozy spot in one of our picnic areas to relax and unwind or visit the farm animals or farm store. For more information, visit hamblyfarms. com/visit-the-farm/#u-pick.
JULY 3, 10, 17 AND 21 CONCERTS IN THE PARK SERIES
TEMPLETON PARK
6–8 p.m.
Listen to and enjoy live music outside.
JULY 4
JULY 4 IN PASO
BARNEY SCHWARTZ PARK, 2970 UNION ROAD, PASO ROBLES
2–10 p.m.
The City of Paso Robles, along with Travel Paso, is offering a familyfriendly event throughout the day and culminating with a fireworks show at night.
ATASCADERO 4TH OF JULY MUSIC FESTIVAL
ATASCADERO LAKE PARK, 9305
PISMO AVE
2-8pm
Presented by Colony Days and the Printery Foundation, celebrate America’s independence at Atascadero Lake with great live music, boating, bounce houses, games, and more! For more information visit atascadero4thofjuly.org
FOURTH OF JULY PARADE
DOWNTOWN TEMPLETON
7am-3pm
Details: Start the day with the Pancake Breakfast at 7am, and then grab a seat for the hometown parade at 10am
JULY 4-6
ART IN THE PARK
MORRO BAY BLVD AND HARBOR ST., MORRO BAY 10am-5pm
Presented by the Art Center, this festival attracts both artists and crowds from near and far. For more information, visit artcentermorrobay.com
JULY 6
FLEA & MAKER'S MARKET
TEMPLETON LIBRARY
SUBMIT UPCOMING EVENTS TO: editor@13starsmedia.com
EVENT DETAILS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE verify prior to attending.
1173 S. MAIN STREET, TEMPLETON 8am-2pm
Over 30 vendors of Western silver, saddles, vintage clothing, wine decor, jewelry, books, collectibles and crafts will be displaying their wares. There is a coffee truck and always a burger, pizza or burrito food truck on hand. Join us for these events.
JULY 6, 20, AND 27
SATURDAYS IN THE PARK CONCERTS SERIES
ATASCADERO LAKE PARK 6:30-8:30pm
Enjoy the Sounds of Summer on a chair or blanket, listening to live music by the lake. July 6: The Rockin’ Bs Band (Rock, Country & More); July 20: Garden Party (Classic Soft Rock); July 27: Erin & the Earthquakes (Dance Rock, Funk & Soul).
JULY 11, 18, AND 25 CONCERTS IN THE PARK DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES 6-8pm
Listen to live music in the Park under the trees.
JULY 13
ICE CREAM ZOOFARI
CHARLES PADDOCK ZOO 9100 MORRO ROAD, ATASCADERO
5:30-8pm
Cool down on a warm summer evening at the Charles Paddock Zoo with a relaxing and delicious ice cream-filled event! Fun for all ages, your visit will include activities, a wide variety of all-you-can-eat sweet treats, and over two hundred Zoo animals.
JULY 17-28
CALIFORNIA MID-STATE FAIR
PASO ROBLES EVENT CENTER
The California Mid-State Fair is held annually and runs for 12 days at the end of July. The Fair has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry.
JULY 26-27
C10 SLOW DOWN TRUCK SHOW
AVILA BEACH GOLF RESORT
The 4th Annual C10 SLO Down Truck Show is a showcase of the wide variety of styles and techniques used in restoring and keeping Classic GM trucks on the road. This family-friendly show is the fastest growing automobile event on the West Coast. Trucks will be displayed on the fairways of the Avila Beach Golf Resort just steps from the beach. For more information c10slodown.com
ATASCADERO 6505 EL CAMINO REAL, ATASCADERO, CA 93422 3pm - 6pm
TEMPLETON CROCKER ST & 6TH ST, TEMPLETON, CA 93465 9am - 12:30pm
1pm
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.
ATASCADERO
“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 Center for Spiritual Living 9315 Pismo Ave.
10:00 a.m. at the Pavilion
Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue awakeningways.org (805) 391-4465
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
Creston Community Church
5170 O’Donovan Road Service: 9:00 a.m.
Pastor JD Megason LOCKWOOD
True Life Christian Fellowship Lockwood/Jolon Road, across from the school in Lockwood Service: 9:30 a.m.
Pastor Erick Reinstedt (805) 472-9325
NACIMIENTO
Heritage Village Church
At The Don Everingham Center Heritage Ranch Service: 10 a.m.
As we approach the summer season, our anticipation builds for the Fourth of July, a time when we gather with loved ones to revel in the spirit of freedom and unity. This day offers a wide range of activities to commemorate our nation’s independence, from outdoor BBQs and beachside camping to festive parades, concerts, and, of course, the dazzling spectacle of fireworks lighting up the night sky. Underneath the canopy of laughter, joy, and radiant sunshine lies a deeper significance—the reflection on why we come together and what America means to each of us, proudly draped in the colors of red, white, and blue.
The foundation of our Fourth of July customs can be traced back to the 18th century and the profound narrative of the American Revolution. Amidst the turmoil of conflict, the Continental Congress boldly proclaimed independence on July 2, 1776. Merely two days later, amidst fervent deliberation and impassioned discourse, 56 delegates from the 13 colonies ratified the Declaration of Independence, a monumental manuscript penned by the youthful Thomas Jefferson at the age of 33, shaping the fate of a burgeoning nation. Among these delegates, ages spanned from the youngest, Thomas Lynch Jr. and Rutledge, Edward at 26, to the eldest, Benjamin Franklin at 70. The identities of the signers remained undisclosed until early 1777, when Congress permitted the publication of an official version bearing their names. On January 18, 1777, printer Mary Katherine Goddard’s rendition in Baltimore, at the behest of the delegates, bore the signatures authenticated by John Hancock, affirming their desire to memorialize their commitment for posterity.
The Revolutionary War broke out in 1775 due to escalating tensions between Great Britain’s 13 North American colonies and the colonial government representing the British crown. The conflict was sparked by confrontations between British troops and colonial militiamen in Lexington and Concord in April 1775. By the following summer, a full-scale war for independence
was underway. France’s entry into the conflict in 1778 transformed it into an international struggle. With French assistance, the Continental Army compelled the British to surrender at Yorktown, Virginia, in 1781, effectively securing American independence, which was formally recognized in the Treaty of Paris in 1783.
The roots of the conflict trace back over a decade before its outbreak. The French and Indian War (1756-1763) expanded British territories but burdened the colonies with unpopular taxes. Colonists protested against taxation without representation and demanded equal rights as British subjects. In response, delegates including George Washington, John and Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry, and John Jay convened the First Continental Congress in 1774, denouncing British policies but not yet calling for independence.
The conflict escalated with the Battles of Lexington and Concord in April 1775, marking the beginning of the Revolutionary War. Initially, few colonists sought complete independence, but sentiments shifted rapidly, fueled by growing hostility toward Britain and revolutionary literature like Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense.” The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, leading to the formation of the United States. The war’s turning point came with the surrender at Yorktown in 1781, although formal peace was not achieved until the Treaty of Paris in 1783. Independence Day celebrations became an annual tradition, fostering unity and political discourse among emerging parties like the Federalists and Democratic-Republicans.
Reflecting on history, Americans continue to uphold their freedoms while striving for progress. Independence Day serves as a reminder to safeguard these freedoms for future generations. In the timeless refrain of our national anthem, may the star-spangled banner yet wave o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave. This Fourth of July, let us unite in the spirit of camaraderie and renewal, reaffirming our commitment to the ideals that define us as Americans.
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