Thanksgiving for Paso Robles celebrates 40 years with a free community feast at Centennial Park. All are welcome to enjoy thanks to generous community support.
Paso People: Retired Veteran Don Simoneau
By Christianna Marks
Don Simoneau, a retired Air Force veteran supporting fellow veterans through Honor Flight, serving as a guardian on trips to Washington, D.C. Paso’s Lights of Hope Shine Bright for Cancer Support
By Camille DeVaul
Paso Robles will officially kick off the holiday season with the 38th annual Downtown Light Ceremony and Lights of Hope.
Paso Robles Main Street Association
The Natural Alternative
San Miguel Happenings
Paso Robles General Store 16 Paso Robles Area Historical Society
Shift'N Gears 18 Kid Friendly Paso: Kid Friendly Business
Paderewski Festival
Day of Giving 28 Holiday Events: Guide to Festive Season Business
32 Spotlight: Hearing Aid Specialists
34 Spotlight: Hamon Overhead Door
35 Spotlight: Melissa Gorden Aesthetics
36 Spotlight: IV Hydration
37 Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce Oak Leaf 38 SLO County Office of Education 39 Behind the Badge
“We all live with the objective of being happy; our lives are all different and yet the same.”
- Anne Frank
As we approach the holiday season and reflect on what it means to be grateful, this issue of Paso Robles Magazine feels especially significant. When you open its pages, we will all either have cast our votes or be preparing to do so, knowing our nation will soon chart a new path forward. No matter how the election results unfold—whether your candidate wins or not—what truly matters is how we continue to show up for one another. In these times of division, the strength of our communities is what binds us together, reminding us that beyond political choices, our shared humanity will always be at the heart of our towns.
In Paso Robles, we have seen this sense of unity again and again. We saw it during Pioneer Day, a celebration that reminds us of our shared history and values. We see it every year during the community tree-lighting ceremony, as the holiday season kicks off and we gather downtown, not as individuals with differing viewpoints, but as neighbors. We see it when our local athletes triumph in CIF competitions and the entire town rallies behind them with pride. And most poignantly, we come together when one of our own is facing hardships—whether it’s a diagnosis of cancer or the loss of a loved one. In these moments, it’s not our political affiliations that define us, but our compassion, empathy, and willingness to help.
This message isn’t coming from a place of judgment, nor am I claiming that I get it all right. It comes from a place of love, strength, and hope for our future. Every month, as my team and I work to put together Paso Robles Magazine, we are fortunate to witness the best of our community. We get to share the stories that highlight the kindness, resilience, and connectedness that define Paso Robles. Of course, there are challenges, and we hear from people who think we can do better—and I appreciate that feedback. It pushes us to give our very best with each new issue.
In this edition, we are honored to feature the 40th Anniversary of Thanksgiving for Paso Robles, a beloved tradition of a free community feast held at the Centennial Park Activity Center. This incredible event, beginning on November 28, opens its doors to everyone, ensuring no one is left out. I love the idea of a shared table where all are welcome—a beautiful reflection of the spirit of North County. In a world where so many of us simply want to feel like we belong, our community does an exceptional job of creating that sense of belonging.
Additionally, the 38th Annual Downtown Light Ceremony will officially usher in the holiday season. Not only does this event light up Paso Robles City Park with dazzling displays, but it also supports a worthy cause—the Cancer Support Community-CA Central Coast’s Lights of Hope. Having worked in cancer care for over a decade and lost my father to the disease, I can attest to the power of these lights to warm our hearts and bring us together.
And finally, it’s that time again—our Annual Best of North SLO County Readers Poll! We’re excited to see who takes home the honors this year, so be sure to cast your vote by January 1 for a chance to win some fantastic prizes from our local retailers.
As we close out this year, let’s move forward with gratitude, knowing that no matter what, our strength lies in how we lift each other up. Thank you for being a part of this wonderful community.
We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of Paso Robles Magazine.
Hayley & Nic Mattson
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
John Nygaard
Neil Schumaker
Anthony Atkins
BeeWench Farm
Elisa Huot
Karyl Lammers
Lynne Schmitz
Paso Robles Area
Historical Society
Shift'N Gears
Mira Honeycutt
CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAY'S
December 2024
PUBLICATION DELIVERY DATE
December 5, 2024
ADVERTISING DEADLINE
November 10, 2024
For more advertising information, contact our advertising representatives above, or see our media kit at: pasoroblesmagazine.com/advertise
to all of our wonderful 2024 sponsors thank you
Parkside Real Estate
San Miguel Lions Club
777 Auction
ACCESS Publishing
Adelaide Inn
Adler Belmont Group
All About Events
All American Drilling
Alliance Board Co.
Apache Machine & Tool, Inc.
Apex Fire Control
Associated Traffic Safety
Avlite Aviation, Inc
Barley & Boar - Atascadero
Bella Jule
Best Restoration
Bragg Crane
Black Oak Best Western
Blake’s Inc
Borjon Auto Center
Bridge Sportsmen’s Center
Brown-Silva Trucking
Brush Family BBQ
Bryce & Kristie Dilger
Cagliero Ranches Inc
Caliber Accounting & Tax
California Coast Beer Co.
California Standoff
Carson & Karen Wiley
Cal Coast Machinery
Cal Portland
Central Coast Equipment Repair
Central Coast Irrigation & Supply
Central Coast Propane
Central Coast Trailers
Chris Iversen, Atty at Law
Cielo Ristorante & Rooftop Bar
Coast Counties Peterbuilt
Coast Pipe
Coastal Tractor
Coblentz-Biehle & Cramer CPA - Keith Cramer
Colony Sandwich Co.
Country Touch Cafe
Cowgirl Café
Creekside Veterinary Hospital
Cuesta Springs Ice Company
Dr. John and Sally Davis
Drapes by Kim
Dwight Peterson
Eagle Door & Hardware
Family Optometric Care of P.R.
Farm Supply
Feral Kitchen & Lounge
Filipponi & Thompson Drilling Inc
Food 4 Less
Frontier Floor Coverings
Fuller Fabricating
Georgene Barlogio
Grant Marcum DDS
Guest House Grill
Hank’s Welding Service
Harris Family Properties, LLC
Harrod Homes
Homestead Apartments
Honey Huts
Howard Products
Idler’s Home - Jennifer Idler
Jack’s Bar & Grill
Jayde – Andrea Phillips
Jayne Orcutt & Edward Casper
JB Dewar
J. Dusi Wines
Jim Irving
Joe Romanini
John Jamrog
J. Smith Painting
John & Linda Tubb
John & Marjorie Hamon - Hamon Overhead Door
Company
Justin Pickard
K Brush Concrete Inc
Katherine Barnett
Keith & Kathleen Belmont
Ken Umber Construction
Kitchenette
Lakefront at LandsEnd
Lauren and Chad Rava - Rava Winery
Leo Leo Gelato
Linda Hamilton CPA
Lori Lewis
Lorraine Cagliero
Lube n Go
MAHA Estate
Mark’s Tire Service
Marlene E Heaton
McGuire Woods
McPhee’s Grill
MGE Underground
Michael James
Mid Coast Mower & Saw
Mike & Carol McNellis
MTM Construction
Myers Drilling
Native Sons of the Golden West # 150
Nick & Carolyn Gilman
North County Diesel Specialties
O’Connor & Roxbrough CPAs
Paso Printers
Paso Robles Cleaners
Paso Robles Dental Lab
Paso Robles Distillery Trail
Paso Robles Golf Club
Paso Robles Library Foundation
Paso Robles Waste & Recycle/Rolloff
Paul & Karen Lamas
Paul & Karen Smeltzer - Paul’s Mobile Metal Art
Pine Street Saloon
Pioneer Ag
Powder Coating USA
community sponsors
Paso Robles Rotary Club
City of Paso Robles
Paso Robles Police & Emergency Svcs.
Paso Robles Community Volunteer Police Patrol
Estrella Warbirds Museum
Paso Robles Event Center
pioneer day officers and committeee chairmen
Quinn Co
ReMax Parkside
ReMax Success
Restoration Services
R.J. Potter Construction
Robert Vaz Trucking
Roden Farms - Billy & Karen Roden
Roger Miller
San Luis Ambulance
Santa Margarita Ranch/The Rossi Foundation
Sarah Kramer
Savage Spirits
Sharon Roden
Sharon Ross
Sign Here
Sinton Helicopters
Spring Street Auto
Steve Consulting
Street Side Ale House
TAPS Truck & Auto Accessories
Templeton Twerps & Rocky Heber
Terry Minshull
The Blueprinters & Graphics
The Home Depot
The Margarita Man
The Richard & Joan Morgantini Family
Tony Domingos Farming Inc.
Tony Ramos Farms, Inc.
Touch of Paso
Trailer Barn
United Rentals
Vessel Day Spa
Vineyard Professional Services
Western Janitor Supply
Weyrick Companies
Woodland Auto Display
Woods Family Pest
Chairman: Lori Woods
Vice Chairman: Sarah Kramer
Recording Secretary: Shan Tucker McCornack
Corresponding Secretary: Jill Smith
Treasurer: Fran Tognazzini
Parade Entries: Kelli Johnson
Horse/Wagon Entries: Wade Taylor
Parade Marshal Candidates: Bob Tullock & Mark Perry
Belle and Attendant Candidates: Jill Smith, Gina Hambly & Gelene Dodd-Coehlo
Kick-off Party: Tara Tedeschi
Publicity Director: Karli Twisselman
Gymkhana: Nicole Mitchell
Paso Robles Event Center Horse Stalls & Bedding: Wade Taylor & Shan McCornack
Tractor Entries: Austin Sligh
Political Entry Questions: Lori Woods
Additional Board Members:
Margaret Wicks, Mark Perry, Steve Hansen, Justin Brush, Robby Boneso, Tami (Bertoni) Smith, Scott Reneau, Emily Brush , Zach Taylor, Les Stemper and Andy Brown
Emeritus Board Members:
Maggie Vandergon, Norma Moye, Dottie Reiff, Bob Tullock, Paul Viborg and Tom Madden
Gratitude, giving, and holiday cheer
KARYL LAMMERS
In early 2024, we were consumed by months of atmospheric rivers and weeks of heat warnings. Now, as the year winds down and we’ve welcomed the fall equinox, our weather has finally calmed. We enter November, the month of reflection, remembrance, and gratitude for all the blessings we’ve received this year, including the gift of pumpkin-spiced everything, autumn landscapes, and the time when life and nature harmonize.
On November 3, Daylight Saving Time ends. We set our clocks back, resulting in lighter mornings, darker evenings, and a week of getting up an hour early because the kids and pets can’t tell time.
Veteran’s Day is celebrated on November 11. It’s the 316th day of the year, which is a reminder that we have 50 days left in 2024. Stop, take a moment to pay tribute to the sacrifices and contributions we have received from our many veterans. Tell them "Thank you!"
Now, get ready for the arrival of the holiday season downtown. On Saturday, November 16, from 5 to 8 p.m. the Downtown Main Street Association presents “The Elegant Holiday Evening Downtown.” Dress up, stroll through the shops and businesses throughout town, and enjoy music and the beautiful
old building display window decorations (including live mannequins). You will be offered food and beverage tastings along with merchandise discounts while holiday shopping. It’s noted that “holiday shopping is like going to the gym: it’s exhausting, but you feel good about yourself afterwards.”
Happy Thanksgiving Day on November 28. Appreciate everything you have, along with family, friends, and good food.
“When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.” — Willie Nelson
Friday after Thanksgiving (Black Friday) is the biggest sale event of the year. Retailers heavily discount thousands of products to go from being at a loss (in the red) to earning profits (in the black). After shopping in town all day, make your way to the City Park at 5:30 p.m. for the 38th Annual Downtown Lighting Ceremony, which happens when Mrs. Claus pulls the switch to transform the entire park into a winter wonderland of lights. Thanks again, Paso Robles Main Street Association, for keeping our traditions alive!
Still in the mood to shop, Saturday, November 30 is Shop Small Saturday, where discounts and specials are still offered throughout downtown. Shopping is cheaper than therapy!
“It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.” — Mother Theresa
Gratitude to you, November, for the gentle reminder that even as the year closes, each day brings a new opportunity to create, to love, and to dream!
FRIDAY,
Digestive Health
During the month of November, it's important to stay on top of your digestive health, especially with holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner. These holidays involve a lot of food, which can sometimes be hard for the body to process and digest.
This is why we’re excited to announce our latest promotion. This November we’ll be offering 20 percent off all Enzymedica digestive products! There are a lot of ways you can support your digestive health, the main one being to consider taking a probiotic. Adding a probiotic to your supplement regimen is important, especially during holidays and the colder months. Probiotics are known to improve overall gut health, including bowel regularity, and reduce digestive discomfort. Probiotics can be taken daily and it’s recommended to do so for upkeep and to improve overall gut function. Ask us about Enzymedica’s Digest Basic, which includes all the essential enzymes with probiotics as well! For those who may have a sensitive stomach and more trouble digesting, you may see results from taking digestive enzymes such as Enzymedica’s Papaya Enzymes or Digest Gold, which also includes essential enzymes.
Using digestive enzymes helps break down carbs, proteins, and fats from the foods you consume.
The nutrients are then absorbed into the body through the wall of the small intestine and dispensed through the bloodstream. This may help your body process foods faster and with more ease. Whether we admit it or not, when Thanksgiving and Christmas come along, there will be foods that we want to eat — even if we know they may cause irritation or may not be the healthiest for us.
For those who want to splurge on holiday favorites that may have dairy, gluten, or a higher acid content, Enzymedica has products that may make the digestion of these items easier. Make sure to stop by the store today to receive 20 percent off Enzymedica’s digestive products. We’re located at 1213 Pine St. in Paso Robles, or you can shop online now at naturalalternativenutrition.com.
Our team is wishing you a wonderful start to the holiday season, The Natural Alternative
Shop online with us today at NaturalAlternativeNutrition.com or visit us on Instagram and Facebook
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL COUNSELING WITH A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.
HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.
THE MAXWELL HOUSE HOTEL
Driving west from Mission Street on 13th Street in San Miguel toward the park, one may see the historic Maxwell House Hotel perched on top of the hill across from the library. With the advent of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1886, several hotels were built to accommodate the influx of train passengers.
The train was originally planned to run along the bluffs east of the Salinas River, so the Maxwell House was built on the east side. When the tracks were rerouted through town on the west side, the hotel was moved in two pieces: down the bluff, through the river, and up to its present location.
Circa 1901, a naturalized citizen from Germany, CF (Christian Frederich) Hoffmann, moved with his wife, Frieda, and their children to San Miguel and purchased the hotel property, including 11 lots with
outbuildings. Hoffmann had an inventive mind and was a talented builder. When first moving his family in 1899, he had designed and built an original “house-onwheels,” which was pulled by four horses. When the family moved into Maxwell House, he covered the walls and ceilings with several patterns of hammered metal. He generously shared his knowledge and talents to improve the town and the lives of the people of San Miguel.
In 1910, he designed, personally funded, and built a power plant to replace the gaslights. One of several innovations was using incandescent bulbs in the streetlights. Initially, power was run to the businesses downtown, turned on from 4 a.m. until daylight, then from sundown to 10 p.m. Eventually, he sold the company to Midland Counties Public Service Corporation, which became San Joaquin Light and Power Company and, later on, PG&E. In 1915, CF was Secretary of the Board of the Interurban Telephone Company. He urged the directors to put in an automated system he had in mind, but it was voted down.
In the early 1920s, he and his son, Bill,
rebuilt the San Miguel Water Works. CF became the superintendent at a minimal salary, doing repairs, installations, and maintenance, reading meters, collecting bills, and bookkeeping. It was the only self-supporting water district in the county at the time, and they paid off all their bonds in less than nine years. CF Hoffmann passed away in 1941. In the interim, their youngest son, Ben, with his wife, Esther, had moved away from San Miguel. They returned, purchased the property from Ben’s mother, Frieda, and raised their family in the house.
Ben opened an auto repair business in the shop and served the people of the area honestly and fairly for many years. Following their deaths, their two sons and their wives, Dick and Jean Thacker Hoffmann and Don and JoAnn Joy Hoffmann maintained the interior of the house in excellent condition, including the decorative walls and ceilings. A few years ago, they had the house repainted with the “Maxwell House” sign emblazoned on the east side. Sadly, in the past two years, first Jean and then Dick passed away. They are missed.
LYNNE SCHMITZ
Fill their stockings with local love
We’ve said it before, but this time of year makes it even more true: with the tiny lights in the trees in the park floating in the breeze like fireflies and the windows so festive … it’s a Gilmore Girls vibe, and we are here for it!
We know Chef Sookie would agree: the quality of what people make here in our backyard is extraordinary. One of our original goals for GSPR was to make it easier for people to buy locally and for artisans to reach their audience. So when someone comes in and wants a local holiday gift, it’s one of our favorite things to walk them through the shop and point out so much goodness made right here. Let us just say that we know supporting local business takes effort. It’s easier to shop in your sweats on your couch. But our customers tell us that they feel happier presenting a gift that took that extra thoughtfulness. And it’s a whole lot more fun to smell the soap or pick the perfect ornament (tiny charcuterie board and wine glass for the tree? Yes, please!) in person. Plus, in December, we’ll make things even easier for you: From December 1 through the 23rd, we’ll open at 10 a.m. every day. (On the 24th, we close at 2
p.m. to give our team some time with their families.)
We’ve got some lovely local goods that are new to us this holiday, including:
• Taddo’s Tallow Bar Soap: The lotion stick and whipped butter are hugely popular, and the soaps are luxurious and nourishing
• Manifest Everything Oil: And we do mean everything. Lips, hair, body, use this blend of natural and organic botanicals to hydrate and replenish. For massage, cuticles, a bath oil … it smells soooooo good, and the little crystal inside makes it extra magical
• Hot Cocoa from Mama Ganache: You know it’s a good sign when you drop by to pick up samples, but Ben can’t come to the front because he’s stirring caramel! We are so happy to offer Ben and his family’s exceptionally tasty organic chocolates, made in SLO.
Whether you’re familiar with Lorelai Gilmore or not, we promise you that our sweet downtown is just as good as Star’s Hollow, and offers much better wine.
Cue the Christmas Carole King! (inside GG joke)
Love, — General Store Paso Robles
Robles
Paderewski at leisure
How the famed pianist and prime minister took refuge in Paso Robles
By Camille DeVaul and the Paso Robles Area Historical Society and Museum
When Ignacy Jan Paderewski first set foot in Paso Robles in January 1914, he was not there to perform but to heal. The world-renowned pianist and composer was seeking relief from neuritis, a debilitating nerve condition that had forced him to suspend his American concert tour. Drawn to the town’s therapeutic sulphur hot springs, Paderewski discovered in Paso Robles not just a place of healing, but a sanctuary that would serve as his retreat from the world of music and politics for the next 25 years.
magic of cinema. Local lore recounts how he relished these moments of escape from the weight of his public life.
During his stays, Paderewski embraced leisure with the same passion he brought to the piano. He was an avid golfer and often played bridge and billiards at the Hotel El Paso de Robles, where he resided. The hotel staff even organized lavish picnics for him and his guests, with carefully prepared hot and cold foods, all served in scenic spots in the Paso countryside. These outings, complete with elegant settings of silverware, candlelight, and fine linens, showcased Paderewski’s love for life’s finer pleasures, but also his deep appreciation for nature and camaraderie.
One of his favorite pastimes, surprisingly, was going to the movies in town. Paderewski was a true film enthusiast, delighting in the adventures of Douglas Fairbanks, the melodramas of Mary Pickford, and the comedies of Charlie Chaplin. He would attend screenings with two small bags of candy — one filled with unshelled peanuts, the other with gum drops or Jujubes — his face lighting up like a child’s as he enjoyed the
Exercise and fresh air were central to his routine in Paso Robles. Paderewski and his wife, Madame Helena Paderewska, often took leisurely strolls around the town’s central park. A photograph from 1925 shows them walking with Chief John Big Tree, a member of the Onondaga Tribe and a well-known actor of the silent film era. This snapshot of his life — marked by quiet walks, good company, and a simple connection to the natural world — speaks to the sense of peace Paderewski found in Paso Robles.
Perhaps the most touching reflection on Paderewski’s relationship with the town comes from a letter his wife wrote in 1923 to her son. In it, she described the happiness and tranquility they experienced during their stay, marveling at the weather, the friendliness of the locals, and even the delight of their two Pekingese dogs, Jouby and Fitzi, who were reveling in the fresh air and freedom. Madame Paderewska wrote, “In Paso we feel so well. Only now do we realize how much needed was this rest we are getting ... life here seems extra delightful.”
As time passed, Paso Robles became more than a place of physical healing for Paderewski — it became a cherished refuge where he could indulge in life’s simpler joys, surrounded by natural beauty and the warm hospitality of a town that embraced him as one of their own.
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 Garage, an ASE Master Certified full service auto repair shop.
Thankful for the small things — windshield wipers:
It's Turkey month, and a blatant reminder to be thankful for our loved ones and all the things in our life that help us get through the days and months safely and happily. It’s easy with the hustle of daily life, to overlook the essential, little things that make our journeys smoother — like windshield wipers. These humble devices are often taken for granted, but imagine driving without them!
Windshield wipers or windscreen hand apparatuses were previously invented and commonly used in other countries before 1903. Countries that used them included England, Poland, and Ireland. The story of the American windshield wipers begins in 1903, thanks to an idea sparked by a New York rancher woman named Mary Anderson, who saw a need, and simply took action. She patented the first mechanical windshield wiper: a lever
inside the car that controlled a rubber blade on the outside.
It wasn’t until 1917, when another innovator from Canada, a vaudeville performer named Charlotte Bridgwood, introduced the first electric windshield wiper. Although this design didn’t gain traction at first, it took off in the 1920s.
In 1917, Tri-Continental Corporation took Bridgwood’s invention and created their own version. Today Trico is one of the world's largest manufacturers of wipers and Bosch has the world's biggest windscreen wiper factory in Belgium, which produces 350,000 wiper blades every day.
Today, we have intermittent wipers, rain-sensing technology, and even heated wipers for icy conditions. But despite all these advancements, the basic concept remains the same: a small, simple device that makes a big difference in keeping drivers safe.
As we remember to be thankful for the small and the big things, let a piece of automotive history remind us how even the simplest innovations can have a profound impact.
Jimmy & Leigh-Ann, along with all of their team want to thank all of you for your continued support this year. For those of you that don’t know what all the “Hoopla” is about, give us a call and let us show you how we are SHIFTING EXPECTATIONS in the auto industry.
kid-friendly Thankful for: businesses
Children are the cornerstone of every society. They carry forward their families’ traditions, values, and cultural heritage. They play a vital role in preserving the past and shaping the future. Children bring joy, love, and a sense of purpose to their communities. Their potential to positively impact the world inspires us and gives us reason to believe in a better tomorrow. So why is it that the general public can sometimes feel unwelcoming to them?
From the disapproving side-eye to shushing — stereotypes and assumptions about children being noisy, disruptive, or demanding lead to negative attitudes surrounding their presence. Strict rules can limit children’s natural expression and curiosity. A lack of empathy and understanding for their needs and perspectives can isolate them from the very world that they are meant to inhabit. Children are not just the future; they are a central part of our present. Including them in everyday activities is essential to their development.
On a recent visit to the Pig Iron restaurant in Templeton with friends, I was struck by how the staff and owner, Dominique Odenwald, greeted our 5-year-olds. Sure, they have a candy bucket, a treasure chest of tiny free toys, and plenty of options on their kids’ menu, but what stood out the most was how they acknowledged the little ones as much as the adults. Employees who engage with children, answer questions, and offer genuine smiles make a world of difference.
But what makes a business truly kidfriendly? It is more than just entertaining them. It is creating an inclusive setting where kids feel comfortable, respected, and engaged. This translates to a positive experience for the entire family, fostering loyalty in patrons who
will keep coming back.
New Era Barber, a family-style barber shop, opened in downtown Paso Robles in 2011. Owner Robert “Junior” Gutierrez says that he ensures the barbers address every person as they come in and as they leave, no matter how young or old.
“Making sure that whoever walks in the door feels recognized is part of our business; everything we do, from the music to the conversations, is family-friendly,” said Gutierrez.
Stylist Adry Mafnas involves her young clients in the process, allowing them to hold tools and brush off hair clippings.
“Next thing you know, kids that were not pleased about getting a haircut are jumping in the chair on their own,” said Mafanas.
Amy and Russel Baker, owners of The Backyard, opened their wine and beer garden in Paso Robles in 2020. They designed The Backyard to offer a relaxed and safe environment that caters to local families. Featuring toys, games, and a fenced-in play area, “The Lawn,” as they call it, The Backyard provides parents with peace of mind, allowing them to keep eyes on their children playing while sipping an adult beverage and holding an actual conversation. The establishment also hosts family-friendly events like Bingo nights and offers a variety of food options for different tastes.
“As a parent and educator, it was important to me that we embraced kids, not just tolerated them,” said Baker.
Rich and Martha Clayton, owners of California Coast Beer Company, or “Cal Coast”
as locals know it, wanted to give parents a place to go with their young ones.
“First and foremost, we were educators and understand the need for kids to socialize,” said Rich Clayton. “We are in an old, historic auto garage with tin siding that has lasted since the 1950s; you can’t break anything here.” They set out to offer an outdoor oasis with seating options and a free snack for each child who walks through the gate, even teenagers. “It’s 100 percent a part of our culture now to go out with your kids, we want the whole family to enjoy themselves,” Rich adds.
David and Laurel Shepherd opened Hops Bounce House in Atascadero to create a welcoming and family-friendly community emporium of fun. Their goal is to provide an exciting way for children to burn off energy while parents can possibly make new friends. Despite the challenges of running a small business, the Shepherds find their purpose in the positive impact they have on the people of Atascadero and beyond. By offering a safe and engaging arena for kids to just be themselves, they hope to encourage creativity and healthy lifestyles.
Creating a kid-friendly business is about more than just ticking off a list of features. It’s about a genuine commitment to ensuring the youth feel valued and included. Remember, a kid-friendly business is a win-win situation. Happy kids mean happy parents, and happy parents translate to loyal customers. Invest in creating an atmoshpere where everyone feels welcome, and you’ll reap the rewards of a thriving, family-oriented business.
ELISA HUOT
FORMER EDUCATOR, TODDLER PARENT, AND PASO ROBLES RESIDENT
DDON SIMONEAU
From Air Force Veteran to Honor Flight Guardian
By Christianna Marks
on Simoneau started his life out in the—now long gone—little hospital in Atascadero in the early '60s, and since then, other than his time in the military and a stint in Texas to help a friend build a house, he’s called the North County home.
Coming from a large (Don is one of 10 boys) and long-standing military family, with his grandfather serving in the Army in WWI, his father serving in the Army in WWII, two of his older brothers being drafted into the Army, and another older brother joining the Navy, it was no surprise when Don decided to follow in their footsteps. However, he did break tradition when he decided to join the Air Force.
“I was going to graduate from Atascadero High School in 1978, and like in 1977, I realized I boo-booed my way along there pretty good, and I was never going to make it anywhere, so I thought, okay, I’m going to join up into the Air Force and see if I can get a career and go see some of the rest of the world,” Don said about his decision to enlist.
In fact, he was so set on joining the Air Force that he pre-registered almost a year in
advance with early registration.
“I knew that the Air Force and the Navy seemed to go more for the brains than the brawn. So I tested for both of them, but then I’m not a really good swimmer, and the thought of getting stuck out in the ocean for seven or eight months at a time kind of gave me the heebie-jeebies. So, I went ahead and went with the Air Force, and for some reason, they took me,” joked Don.
He also needed his parent’s permission to sign up, as he was still 17 when he headed off to basic training a month after graduation. He turned 18 later that year.
“A month after graduation, I was gone to basic training,” stated Don.
After basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, Don headed to Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas, for the next 27 weeks for Technical School.
“I was a telephone equipment repairman. That put me in the central office where you do all the telephone number assigning, troubleshooting, and sending people out to repair bad telephones or telephone lines,” Don added.
After his time in the middle of the country,
preparing for his next assignment, the Air Force asked him what his preferences were for his next station.
“I put down anywhere on the West Coast. Second choice was anywhere in America. So they sent me to Germany,” Don said deadpan. “So, then I was assigned to Ramstein Air Base in Ramstein-Miesenbach, Germany.”
Don was in the Air Force for four years in total before returning to the Central Coast, but his timing was off, as Pacific Bell was doing massive layoffs, and jobs for people who worked with telephones were unavailable. Instead, he started working for an insulation company before heading out to the oil fields for three years. Proceeding this, he started doing electrical work for a general contractor. It was when that job came to a close that Don applied to work for the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District (PRJUSD).
“I was with the school district for 26 years. I just retired a year ago this December,” declared Don.
When Don was working in construction, he always said that he would never go into plumbing or roofing. Initially, he was hired as a general maintenance man for PRJUSD,
but then, in a turn of events, Don was officially hired as the district’s plumber, which he continued to do for 24 of his 26 years working for them.
“In that 26 years, I watched kids progress all the way through and graduate out. I still run into some of those kids,” added Don.
From a romantic standpoint, Don found true love in the early 1990s because both he and his wife, Kim, had classic red and candy-white VW buses. At this time, they were living in Paso Robles.
“We waved to each other for at least a year. Driving around town, we’d see each other in our red and white VW busses, and we’d wave to each other,” Don said.
They officially met later when there was a Volkswagen car show in Paso. That’s also where Don met both of Kim’s daughters, Kelly and Michelle. A month later, they both ended up at the post office, where Kim asked Don to look at the heater in her van. He fixed the heaters on her van, and that’s when Kim asked him what she owed him.
“I said you need to make me dinner, and that’s how it all came to be,” Don said with a little laugh.
For the last 11 years, Don and Kim have been giving back to the veteran community through Honor Flight, a nonprofit that takes veterans to Washington, D.C. They started by hosting welcome home BBQs for vets returning from their Honor Flight alongside their daughter Michelle and her husband Josh. Now, the couple runs recruiting booths at local events, and three years ago, Don officially became a guardian, helping other vets on their Honor Flights.
That first year, he was the guardian for a Korean War vet. He’s now gone three times. On the last trip, he was the assistant bus leader, making all the phone calls and coordinating the whole trip. Honor Flight has every intention of making him the official bus leader on an upcoming trip.
Don also plays the role of Atascadero’s beloved Santa every winter. And any money that he raises at private events during the Holiday Season is directly donated to Honor Flight.
Paderewski Reprised
HOW THE PADEREWSKI FESTIVAL MADE ITS RETURN TO PASO ROBLES
By Christianna Marks
t was the 1990s when the Paderewski Festival first arrived in Paso Robles to celebrate the musical legacy left behind by famed composer Ignacy Jan Paderewski. Paderewski fell in love with the area when he arrived to heal his hand in the hot springs in 1914, and he has been woven into our town’s musical history ever since.
However, like all good things, the musicfilled four-day weekend of music and festive fun came to an abrupt halt after the 2003 San Simeon Earthquake, which severely damaged the Flamson Middle School auditorium. The auditorium was a staple in the artistic community prior to the earthquake, and the loss of the space affected the community by removing one of the most used performance
spaces in the North County. It wasn’t until 2006 that the Paderewski Festival made its triumphant return to Paso Robles.
“I drove to Paso, and I went around to wineries, and finally found, after going all over the place and trying to find a venue, I found Cass Winery. And Steve Cass graciously let us use his barrel room. We moved the barrels. We brought in the piano from the Paso Robles schools, and there it was. You know, the first festival, renewed festival, or reborn festival, in 2006,” said the Paderewski Festival’s Artistic Director Marek Zebrowksi.
Cass Winery and Vineyards opened just a year before the rebirth of the Paderewski Festival in 2005, and at that time, Steve had decided to host some music-related events
to bring people out to their location. After a few that didn’t work out, Steve jumped at the chance when Marek reached out and asked if Cass Winery would be interested in hosting the restart of the festival.
“I knew a little bit about it and its history in the ‘90s. I bought the property in ‘99, which was the last year of the original version of the Paderewski Festival. My wife is Polish, and she plays piano, so she was very excited about the possibility of doing something with them, and I saw it as an opportunity to get people to come to the winery,” added Steve.
Due to the break between the festival in the ‘90s and 2006, there wasn’t a board of directors or any local promotion for the festival due to Marek living in Southern California.
“So when they had the very first concert in 2006, we invited a lot of community members to come out that we knew, we were relatively new to town ourselves, and a lot of people were saying the festival in the ‘90s was really a great thing and we need to restart it,” Steve continued.
Then it came to light that the grandson of the original Paderewski Festival founder, Virginia Peterson, had moved back to Paso and that Steve should reach out to see if he would want to join an effort to restart the festival. So, Steve called Joel Peterson, and they teamed up with Marek to get the festival back in gear.
“The first year, we didn’t call it the Paderewski Festival; we called it Paderewski Reprise, meaning do it again [in music terms], but then the next year we thought, well let’s just change it and start calling it the festival from here on out,” stated Steve.
And since 2007, the Paderewski Festival has been back in full swing, with a few little alterations here and there to make up for things like global pandemics. In fact, this year, the programming has expanded over the grade into San Luis Obispo, as the festival has teamed up with the San Luis Obispo (SLO) Symphony.
The 2024 Paderewski Festival is making its return from October 31 through November 3 this year. To find out more about the Paderewski Festival or to buy or reserve tickets for this year’s festival, go to paderewskifest.com.
Rosemary Chicken
Chicken Fried Steak
Pesto Shrimp with Fresh Tomatoes & Feta
Includes a side salad and glass of house wine
Anniversary of Thanksgiving for Paso Robles 40th
By Elisa Huot
Thanksgiving for Paso Robles will celebrate 40 years of giving thanks by continuing the tradition of a free community feast on Thursday, November 28, from 12 to 2 p.m. in the Centennial Park Activity Center. All are welcome to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving sit-down meal of oven-roasted turkey, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, dressing, mixed vegetables, salad, candied yams, cranberry sauce, rolls, and house-baked pies at no cost. Started by Mildred Wilkins, an aspiring restauranteur, this gathering is made possible by the generous contributions of many organizations, businesses, and individuals.
Last year, almost 1,500 meals were served by over 200 volunteers, and numbers are expected to be larger this year.
“It is unique in the sense that you won’t walk down a line of people serving food,” says Event Chairman David Kudija. “A host will greet you before being seated, and then a waiter will take care of your every need. Your meal is served on real china, it is a true restaurant experience.”
In 1984, Thanksgiving for Paso Robles was born. It all started with a small holiday dinner at the Paso Robles Senior Center for 80 people who had nowhere to spend the holiday. The event has now grown into a true community effort serving over 1,000 men, women, and children at Centennial Park Activity Center. Each year the center is transformed into a large restaurant for a single day. The entirely homecooked menu includes oven-roasted turkey, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, dressing, mixed vegetables, salad, candied yams, cranberry sauce, rolls, and housebaked pies.
Meals will be delivered to the Paso Robles Senior Center and the El Camino Homeless Shelter in Paso Robles. While delivery is an option for those who are housebound or without transportation, David hopes to rekindle the original mission of this event, “The roots of Paso Thanksgiving is people coming together. Holidays are about sharing food and company, and that’s what this experience is supposed to be.”
Pick-up and delivery options are available at thanksgivingforpasorobles. com or by calling (805) 239-4137 to leave a message. Be sure to include
your name, phone number or email, delivery address, and number of meals. Deliveries will be confirmed via phone or email before Thanksgiving Day. The deadline to request delivery is 5 p.m. on Monday, November 25.
For folks looking to get involved, Thanksgiving for Paso Robles is funded entirely by donations from the community and run by dedicated volunteers. All volunteers must be 14 years of age or older or 16 years or older to work in the kitchen and donations are tax-deductible.
David encourages families to help by delivering meals, “It’s a special way to build relationships and help people in need.”
He knows first hand. He and his wife, Karen, got involved 32 years ago as a young couple with kids. He perfected his turkey carving skills and she drove meals to hungry families with her little ones in tow.
“Mildred would buy sacks of potatoes, onions, and yams, 40 people would show up in the early hours of the morning with Webers to cook turkeys and crews would start chopping and peeling three days beforehand,” said David.
He remembers a well-dressed couple that attended the event one year, leaving a generous donation on the table. A woman named Glendoria would order two meals for delivery each year, one for her and one for her son. She would always be sure to call and thank David and the volunteers for the wonderful food, forging a phone friendship between the two.
These days a small group of core members start meeting in August to plan for the spread and how to raise the funds.
“They share a roll up their sleeves and get it done kind of attitude. We do this from the heart, we discuss how we can do things differently each year and newcomers are always welcome,” David said.
Visit thanksgivingforpasorobles.com or call (805) 239-4137 to donate or volunteer.
Dinner Details
Sit Down Meal
All are welcome to enjoy a traditional sit-down Thanksgiving meal at no cost from 12 to 2 p.m. at Centennial Park Activity Center, 600 Nickerson Road, Paso Robles.
To-Go Meals
There will be a limited number of to-go meals available for pick-up. The to-go window will open at 1:30 p.m. and will remain open until 3 p.m. or until they run out of meals.
Delivery
For those who are homebound, they have volunteers to deliver you a warm Thanksgiving meal.
21-DAY HOLIDAY SURVIVAL CHALLENGE
• 3 weeks of fat-blasting, strength-building workouts Well-rounded, professionally designed program Great people motivating you every step of the way!
DAY OF GIVING years of keeping magic in the season
By Camille DeVaul
For three decades, the Toy Bank of Greater Paso Robles (Toy Bank) has brought magic to families in need of some extra support during the holiday season. The organization has been able to provide toys and clothing to about 500 families and 1,400 children from newborn to 12 years old. They specifically work to serve low-income families from Paso Robles, Shandon, San Miguel, Bradley, and Heritage Ranch.
On Saturday, December 14, Toy Bank will again be partnering with Coats for Kids of SLO County for their annual Day of Giving. Held at the Paso Robles Event Center, volunteers gather toys and coats to be distributed to the over 700 families who seek assistance from the nonprofits.
Coats for Kids has been helping keep families warm for 37 years now. Their mission has always been to distribute warm items such as coats, jackets, sweaters, and sweatshirts directly to North County families in need. Along with the Toy Bank, the nonprofits are keeping families warm and kids excited for the holiday season.
Entirely run by volunteers from the start, the nonprofit works hard to make sure that everything they receive goes to North County families, says the Chair & Day of Giving Coordinator Amanda Bean.
"What's made [Toy Bank] last so long is that every single penny goes back to helping the kids or the families," says Amanda, who had her first experience with the Toy Bank in about fourth grade as a volunteering Girl Scout.
This year, every penny will count as Amanda expects more families to need their assistance due to the higher cost of living. The Toy Bank
has always made it a priority to make the Day of Giving experience one that provides a sense of dignity to those who shop there. Parents are only allowed to shop on the Day of Giving, ensuring children are surprised on Christmas Day with their toys or when receiving their warm coats. As Amanda says, they try to maintain the magic of the season for everyone.
Last year, the Toy Bank was able to give each family a book, and this year, they will be able to provide a board game to every family that comes through their doors. Amanda hopes they can continue the new tradition of providing an activity for every family.
There are many ways that you can help with Toy Bank, either by volunteering or donating. You will be able to find donation boxes all over Paso Robles this season. You can also find ideas for toys by checking the toy banks lists on Amazon and Target. Toys can be easily purchased from the list and shipped directly to the toy bank.
Daniels Wood Land, Golden State Classics, and Late Night Cruizers car clubs will be presenting the 3rd Annual Toy Bank Car Show Fundraiser on Saturday, December 7, at Daniels Wood Land, 2125 Ardmore Road, Paso Robles. The car show raised over $12,000 for the Toy Bank as last year's event.
As someone who loves to find the perfect gift, Amanda says the Day of Giving is her favorite way to embrace the holidays.
"I love it," Amanda told us. "It's one of my favorite things to do each year."
Registration for the Day of Giving begins November 1. For information on everything Toy Bank of Greater Paso Robles, register to receive toys and warm coats, and the Toy Bank Car show, visit prtoybank.org
Photos by Camille DeVaul
Guide to the Festive Season in
San Luis Obispo County
Embrace the spirit of the holidays with enchanting events across the region
The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a flurry of festive events that capture the magic and joy of this special time of year. From tree lightings to craft fairs, open houses, and Santa visits, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking to make new memories with
Winter Faire & Juried Craft Show in Morro Bay
Morro Bay Art Association presents The Annual Winter Faire & Juried Craft Show, November 7 to January 6, 2025, offering festive holiday treasures — stunning arts and crafts perfect for gifts or joyful celebration.
Holiday Boutique in Atascadero
Celebrate the holiday season at Atascadero’s Pavilion on the Lake from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This one-day craft show on November 9 features over 50 talented handmade vendors.
Elegant Evening in Paso Robles
Experience the charm of Downtown Paso Robles on November 16 from 5 to 8 p.m.
Enjoy merchant open houses, captivating live mannequins in storefront windows, delightful refreshments, entertaining performances, in a lively and engaging evening of community festivities.
Holiday Lighting Ceremony Paso Robles
The annual Main Street holiday lighting ceremony, a part of the Cancer Support Community Lights for Hope event, includes candlelight caroling, greetings from city officials, Mrs. Claus and the Elves, and more on November 29 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Santa’s House/Holiday Plaza at Mission Plaza, San Luis Obispo
Check out the amazing decorations and activities in the plaza, including an evening light display, carousel, Santa’s Mouse Scavenger hunt, write letters to Santa, and more from November 29 through December 24, time varies.
family, find the perfect gift, or simply soak in the holiday spirit, our guide to upcoming holiday events will help you make the most of the season.
All events are chronologically listed. Readers are encouraged to confirm all scheduled events.
Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration in Morro Bay
Join the festive Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration at Morro Bay City Park on December 6 at 5 p.m. Festivities start at 3:30 p.m., leading up to the enchanting tree lighting ceremony, marking the start of the holiday season in a joyous atmosphere.
The North County Nutcracker
The 28th Annual North County Nutcracker, a Storybook Ballet presented by North County Dance and Performing Arts Foundation, offers four shows at Cal Poly Spanos Theatre on December 6-8, featuring various performance times. Tickets are available at ncdpaf.org/events.
48th Annual Downtown
San Luis Obispo Holiday Parade
On December 6, from 7 to 9 p.m. This event is one of the largest parades on the Central Coast, attracting thousands of spectators and featuring all types of floats, vehicles, marching bands, dancers, and more.
Light Up the Downtown Atascadero
On December 6, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., soon after the lights come on, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be arriving via an antique Model-A fire truck. Shops will be open late for the Downtown Holiday Sup & Shop with wine and beer tastings will be available from participating merchants. A great way to enjoy shopping and strolling Downtown along with the festivities of the season!
Santa’s House on the Embarcadero in Morro Bay
Santa’s Coming to the Embarcadero on December 6-8 and 13-15. Santa will be welcoming families on Fridays and Saturdays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. the first two weekends of December. Come visit Jolly ol’ Saint Nick and get a picture. Santa’s house is at the corner of Embarcadero and Front St.
Lighted Boat Parade on the Embarcadero in Morro Bay
On December 7, be dazzled as our fishing, leisure, and yachting community takes to the water with decorated boats with dazzling lights and holiday cheer. The parade will go on rain or shine and starts at 6:30 p.m.
Holiday Musical Walk Around the Lake
On December 7, from 5:30 to 9 p.m., experience a festive “Holiday Musical Walk Around the Lake” at Atascadero Lake. Enjoy carolers, community singing, and holiday decor in a charming lakeside setting.
Enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday spirit with an illuminated parade featuring an array of light spectacles from local businesses on December 7, starting at 6 p.m. A variety of awards will be also be given for best in show. Join Santa and Mrs. Claus and watch downtown light up with holiday spirit.
Cayucos Christmas Tree Lighting
Join friends for a festive community Christmas Tree Lighting on December 8 at 5 p.m. Enjoy carolers, refreshments, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus —arriving by fire engine! The tree lighting will be on the corner of D Street and Ocean Avenue.
Mid-State Fair Market at the Paso Robles Event Center
The Mid-State Fair Market at the Paso Robles Event Center features local crafters and artisans from throughout San Luis Obispo County selling handmade and unique items on December 13 from 12 to 4 p.m. and December 14 through 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Winter Wonderland in the Sunken Gardens Atascadero
Atascadero’s Sunken Gardens and the entire downtown will be transformed into a magical snowy paradise. Over 70 tons of snow will create a massive snow slide built by the Kiwanis Club of Atascadero. In addition, there will be two large snow pile areas for the kids on December 13 from 5 to 9 p.m.
38th Annual Vine Street Victorian Showcase Paso Robles
Ebenezer Scrooge, the Snow Queen, Mr. & Mrs. Claus, and the whole crew will be on hand on Vine Street in Paso Robles. Come join in on the fun of community caroling, illuminated floats, entertainers, and live music. Don’t miss this sure-to-please holiday mainstay in Paso Robles on December 14 from 6 to 9 p.m.
Cayucos Christmas Open House
A fun and festive Downtown Cayucos tradition of evening shopping, dining, and merriment along Ocean Ave on December 14 from 5 to 8 p.m.
Santa’s Doggie Parade at the Avila Beach Promenade
All dogs must be registered and check in between 10:30–10:45 a.m. to receive a contest identification number for the costume contest: best dog costume, best dog/owner look-alike, best holiday look, funniest costume, and best in show. The parade starts at 11 a.m. on December 14.
Holiday Magic at Charles Paddock Zoo
The zookeepers have stepped in as Santa’s Elves to prepare gifts for the animals. Santa will be at the Zoo on Saturday, December 21, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help welcome visitors and deliver gifts to the animals.
34th Annual Teddy Bear Tea in Paso Robles
Bring your Teddy Bear, dress him up. Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Snow King, and Queen, as well as Santa’s Elves, will be there for the fun at the Park Ballroom on December 21 from 2 to 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at my805tix.com. Bring your camera for those precious memories.
Paso’s Lights of
Hope
shine bright for cancer support
By Camille DeVaul
This November, Paso Robles will officially kick off the holiday season with the 38th annual Downtown Light Ceremony. Not only will this officially turn on the holiday lights in Paso Robles City Park, but it’s also the largest fundraiser of the year for the Cancer Support Community-CA Central Coast (CSC-CCC) — the 13th Annual Paso’s Lights of Hope.
CSC-CCC’s Lights of Hope will raise funds and awareness for cancer survivors in our community and honor those lost to the disease while shining the light on our mission “so that no one faces cancer alone.”
For the last 13 years, CSC-CCC has worked in tandem with the City of Paso Robles and Paso Robles Main Street Downtown Association to light up the City Park trees with lights. Last year, the city took the lights to another level and surprised locals with a spectacular light display in the park — more colors, snowflakes, and icicles created a winter wonderland in the heart of downtown. The new lights were such a hit with the community that the city decided to carry on the lights throughout the year, transitioning back into holiday-themed lights for the season.
“Paso’s Lights of Hope is more than just a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of courage and community,” CSC-CCC Executive Director Candice Sanders Galli told Paso Magazine. “Each light symbolizes the unwavering support for those affected by cancer, bringing together friends, family, and neighbors in a shared mission. By lighting the night, we send a powerful message of hope, strength, and healing, reminding everyone that no one faces cancer alone.”
Traditionally, patrons make donations to sponsor lighting a tree in the Paso Robles City Park, with the tree remaining lit typically until February. These funds sponsor more than 25 programs per month, which include support groups, social activities, mind/body therapies, individual counseling,
and educational seminars. All programs are offered at no cost and designed to support cancer patients, their families, and caregivers throughout their cancer journey.
This November will be the 38th annual Downtown Light Ceremony. The tradition has been carried on by the Paso Robles Main Street Association to include candlelight caroling, coffee and cocoa, greetings from city officials, Mrs. Claus and the Elves, Mr. Grinch and more. Gathered around the Park Gazebo, families and friends sing together and count down with Mrs. Claus and her friends to turn on the park lights and welcome all of the holiday fun that will follow in the coming weeks.
Paso Robles Main Street Association Executive Director Norma Moye told Paso Robles Press Magazine how thankful she is for all of the volunteers who come together to make the Downtown lighting happen. She especially wanted to thank Adelaide Inn for sponsoring the cup and candles each year for the event.
Over three decades ago, Norma created a tapestry of events that would create the Paso Robles holiday story. First Elegant Evening, which is put on by the downtown businesses, gets everyone in the holiday spirit to shop locally downtown. Then, on the following weekend, Mrs. Claus comes to “inspect” Paso Robles and ensure that it is ready for the big man in red’s arrival during the annual Christmas Parade.
Norma says, “It’s magnificent when you look at the park and everyone is singing ... Santa Claus is coming to town!”
The tree lighting will take place on Friday, November 29, at 5:30 p.m. at the Paso Robles Downtown City Park.
Sponsorship information and signups are available. For more information on the Cancer Support Community-CA Central Coast, visit cscslo.org
Tasting Room & Home Goods Store
By Blake Ashley Frino-Gerl
earing Aid Specialists owner
Peter Lucier says a high school friend’s father had a hearing problem, and seeing how hearing loss can affect relationships, he was inspired to work in the “hearing improvement world” to help families stay connected.
“A great day for me is when I have a patient come in, frustrated with their hearing loss and after a hearing evaluation and calibrating the hearing aids, they can hear better in less than 60 minutes,” Peter says. “I have had patients shed tears of joy when we turn the aids on for the first time. Nothing is more exciting for me.”
The business, with locations in Atascadero and San Luis Obispo, also includes Peter’s wife, co-owner and office manager
Nicole, as well as patient care coordinators Abby and Makaila, whom are “experts in navigating the ever-changing world of insurance and reimbursements.”
Peter can also repair hearing aids when purchased elsewhere. They carry major brands, including Phonak, Widex, Starkey, Oticon, and Resound, some of which Peter has toured their manufacturing centers, staying current with changes in the industry.
Over the past 25 years, he has had as patients World War II veterans, some surviving Nazi occupants, and Pioneer Day Kings and Queens. Forming lasting relationships with many patients, he is often asked about his twin daughters, who were 2 years old when they opened and now are 24.
Active in the Paso Robles Optimist Club, Paso Robles Elks Lodge, and recently volunteering at The Boys & Girls Club annual dinner, Hearing Aid Specialists is “busier than ever before,” even in a world of online retailers. Guidance and personal attention can’t be beat. “Modern hearing aids are similar to minicomputers or smart phones, and it takes a lot of knowledge to know what you are doing,” Peter says. They meet everyone’s budget, believing quality is best long term. HEARING AID SPECIALISTS OF THE CENTRAL COAST, INC. 7070 Morro Road, Suite D, Atascadero (805) 460-7385 slocountyhearingaids.com
Originally established in 1966 as Overhead Door of Paso Robles by Tom Triol, ownership passed in 1978 to his son-in-law, John Hamon Jr., after Triol’s daughter, Marjorie, and John married in 1976. Then in 1994, they changed their name to Hamon Overhead Door Company, Inc. Continuing the family legacy, John Hamon III, also known as J., took ownership in 2019. “With three generations of local ownership, we’ve proudly served our community for over 58 years,” J. says.
Working with all brands and door types, they offer a wide range of residential garage door services and installations. They have “two commercial divisions specializing in industrial dock systems and commercial rolling doors, ensuring that we meet the
By Blake Ashley Frino-Gerl
needs of both homeowners and businesses alike,” according to J.
With a team of 20 employees, many of whom have been with the company for over 15 years, their long-term commitment reflects experience and reliability that is instituted in each project.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of our business is the dynamic nature of each day,” J. says. “We take pride in our ability to dive deep into complex garage door solutions, providing customized, expert solutions that meet the unique needs of our customers.”
Involved with local community, John Hamon Jr. is currently the mayor of Paso Robles, and has also served as Rotary Club president and was on the City Council for 18 years. He also sits on the board
2 5
of the Paso Robles Children’s Museum. J. has been active in several local charity groups and has served on the Local Young Life Committee. Marjorie Hamon is also involved with Toastmasters International, a public speaking organization, and is currently the president of the Paderewski Festival Board.
The family business is not only committed to providing the best garage door service, but also in maintaining a positive and helpful force within the community.
3021
HAMON OVERHEAD DOOR, INC.
Propeller Drive, Paso Robles
By Blake Ashley Frino-Gerl
hile working at her clinic in Walnut Creek, Melissa Gorden, a certified aesthetic nurse specialist, decided to move to Paso Robles to be near her family and bring her “passion for skincare and positive aging.” Paso Robles Aesthetics was born out of Melissa’s desire to combine her medical knowledge with zeal for skincare, aging gracefully, and personalized treatments to help patients feel and look their best.
With over 30 years of nursing experience, and fueled by her personal journey of overcoming cystic acne and surviving melanoma, she is committed to helping others love their skin. After beginning her career on a plastic and reconstructive surgery team, Melissa gained an appreciation for aesthetic treatments and injectables,
which she has been administering since 2010. Her services include treatments for wrinkles, age spots, sun damage, volume loss, acne scars, and more. Melissa uses only FDA-approved products and specializes in regenerative therapies, including Sculptra® and RADIESSE® for collagen stimulation. She also offers Kybella® for reducing submental fat; PRF/PRP injections for rejuvenation; and chemical peels.
Melissa “takes great joy in providing treatments that not only enhance her patients' appearance but also boost their self-esteem.” While offering personalized care in a private, unrushed setting, Melissa is able to build long-term relationships with her patients. She says she “finds immense satisfaction in seeing the subtle, naturallooking results that empower her patients
to become the best versions of themselves.”
She also incorporates philanthropy into her business by regularly donating free products and services to nonprofits to auction, and volunteers at Thanksgiving for Paso Robles. She recently became involved in the Templeton Education Foundation, Paso Robles Library Foundation, Symphony in the Vines, and the Chamber of Commerce for Atascadero and Paso/ Templeton.
New patients who mention this article upon booking will receive $50 off their first service.
PASO ROBLES AESTHETICS
513 13th Street, Paso Robles (925) 378-4343
melissagordenrn.com
ince 2017, Hanna Roewer has been a primary care provider on the Central Coast. As a result of COVID-19, she had many patients suffering from fatigue and dehydration, but they didn’t want to go to an emergency room. She decided she wanted to offer the community “limited medical services for patients suffering from mild medical symptoms and a space where they could feel safe.”
In July 2022, she opened IV Hydration and Beyond. Due to a lack of primary care services, she continued working full-time as a primary nurse practitioner, with her business only open nights and weekends. As of this past May, she now is at IV Hydration and Beyond full-time, six days a week.
Hanna offers a variety of different services, including IV Hydration and Vitamin Injection, medically supervised weight loss, facial skin analysis, facials, micro-needling, Botox/Xeomin Injections, laser hair removal, hair regrowth stimulation, hormone replacement therapy (including testosterone), and non-surgical skin tightening.
Passionate about safety, quality, and value, she appreciates getting to know every person who routinely comes in. “I make it a point to regularly sit down with patients to see if there’s anything new in their lives (e.g., medical updates, surgical or procedural updates, medication updates, or basic life updates) since their last visit,” Hanna explains.
With five employees, one of whom is
By Blake Ashley Frino-Gerl
her husband and valued nurse, Doug, who left his leadership position in the hospital setting to manage certain aspects of IV Hydration and Beyond clinically and administratively.
For the past few years, they have been members of the Paso Robles Downtown Main Street Association, and frequently sponsor or donate to various local schools. Valuing education, Hanna believes that if children are able to master the basics, they are in a better position to follow their dreams and do whatever they want to in life.
1512 Park Street, Paso Robles (805) 769-4001 ivhab.com
Paso Robles Templeton Christmas Tree Auction Awards Ceremony
The annual Paso Robles and Templeton Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Auction and Awards Ceremony, happening on Dec. 5, brings community together in a festive celebration of holiday cheer and local accomplishments.This cherished event, held in the heart of Templeton at the American Legion Hall, serves as both a recognition ceremony and a major fundraiser to support local nonprofit organizations.
The heart of the evening will be the recognition of pillars in the Templeton community — the Templeton Citizen of the Year, Teresa Dellaganna, and the Templeton Business of the Year, Miller Drilling Co. This year, the Chamber will also be awarding a special Community Enhancement award which will be given to Melinda Reed for her tireless efforts in shaping the Templeton Community Library. These prestigious awards honor
individuals and businesses that have demonstrated exceptional service, dedication, and contributions to the community. The awards reflect the deep commitment of Templeton’s residents and business owners to make the area a better place to live and work.
The event is not only a time for honoring local heroes, but also a platform to support charitable organizations through the Christmas Tree Auction. Local businesses, individuals, and organizations donate fully decorated Christmas trees, each uniquely themed and adorned with ornaments, gifts, or experiences. These beautifully crafted trees are auctioned off to the highest bidder, with a portion of the proceeds going to local nonprofits. Over the years, the auction has helped raise significant funds for organizations that provide essential services to the community, from youth programs to food banks and more.
Held in a festive atmosphere, the evening promises to be filled with holiday spirit. Attendees can expect a delicious catered dinner, live entertainment, and the opportunity to mix and mingle with fellow community members, leaders, and honorees. The event is known for its warmth and camaraderie, reflecting the true essence of the season.
For Templeton, this annual tradition not only celebrates the best of the community but also reinforces the importance of giving back. The Christmas Tree Auction and Awards Ceremony continues to be one of the most anticipated events of the year, embodying the holiday spirit of generosity and gratitude.
For more details regarding event registration, sponsorship opportunities, and auction participation please visit bit.ly/47QfIW7
Don’t miss out on this magical evening of celebration and giving.
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
— Winston Churchill
When I mention attending a school board meeting, people often say, “You mean a ‘bored’ meeting, don’t you?” I must disagree with people who think local school board meetings are boring, irrelevant, or a waste of time. Locally elected school board members or “trustees” are non-partisan members of our community who ideally reflect the diversity of the Central Coast. According to the National School Boards Association, a nationwide organization, 44 percent of school trustees are female (more than the rate of the U.S. House
Typical school boards convene one to two times per month, are open to the public, and provide governance for the schools they represent. Trustees serve four-year terms with staggered terms to prevent large vacancies from coinciding. In most cases, a trustee must be at least 18 years old, a citizen of the state they represent, live in their jurisdiction, be a registered voter, and be eligible under the state’s constitution to be elected to public office. Depending upon the school district’s size, most trustees are unpaid or receive a small stipend and possibly health insurance coverage. Board members work 10 to 40 hours monthly on school district governance matters. School districts are complex, multimillion-dollar organizations that require a governing board to oversee the needs of students and families and budgets and provide solid stewardship for the nation’s schools.
Highly functional school boards play a vital role in maintaining local districts by
The last component is often the most difficult to maintain in today’s media-drenched political atmosphere. The title of this article is “Motion, Second, Discussion,” not “My Way or the Highway.” An effective board is secure with differing votes and diverse opinions, ensuring that every voice is heard and considered in the decision-making process.
Experienced school board members know that true consensus is not about winners and losers. Motion, Second, Discussion asks all participants to consider and eventually affirm the key points:
1. “Are all voices heard?”
2. “Is the item understood?”
3. “Is it clear that the group’s will has emerged around the proposal?”
When a motion is made, if another trustee seconds it, the board then discusses/listens/
JAMES BRESCIA, ED.D COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF SLOCOEDU
SHAPING TOMORROW’S LEADERS
HOW THE SHERIFF’S EXPLORER PROGRAM BUILDS CONFIDENCE,
enforcement and public safety, broadening their horizons and fueling their ambition to serve.
ABy Ian Parkinson San Luis Obispo County Sheriff
s sheriff, I take great pride in the programs we offer that not only benefit our community today but also help shape its future. One of the most impactful programs we provide for young people is the Sheriff’s Explorer Program, which offers an unparalleled opportunity for young men and women, ages 15 to 21, to experience law enforcement firsthand. This program is designed to develop responsible, confident, and well-rounded individuals who have an interest in public service and law enforcement.
The Sheriff’s Explorer Program is more than just an introduction to the many areas of law enforcement. It is a rigorous and rewarding journey that encourages personal growth and instills leadership and communication skills. Our Explorers receive hands-on training and learn about various facets of law enforcement, including physical fitness, teamwork, and ethics. Whether it’s navigating a high-stakes scenario, learning effective communication strategies, or developing decision-making skills under pressure, Explorers gain invaluable experience that will serve them throughout their lives.
In addition to the physical training, participants get to explore the inner workings of the Sheriff’s Office. They’ll learn about the diverse roles within our department, from deputies and investigators to administrative staff and specialized units. This exposure helps them better understand the many career paths available within law
One of the most exciting aspects of being a Sheriff’s Explorer is the chance to participate in real-world applications of their training. Explorers actively engage in community events, assist at Sheriff’s Office functions, and compete in Explorer competitions, where they put their skills to the test in various law enforcement scenarios. These competitions are not only challenging, but provide an incredible sense of accomplishment for those who take part.
Last month, the Sheriff’s Office once again hosted the Central Coast Explorer Competition. This day-long event brought together 16 Explorer posts from across the state, representing law enforcement agencies such as the California Highway Patrol, police departments, and other sheriff’s offices. Approximately 150 Explorers competed in realistic law enforcement scenarios, which included giving medical aid, responding to active shooter simulations, and executing high-risk traffic stops. These scenarios offer a glimpse into the high-pressure situations law enforcement officers face on a daily basis and allow Explorers to demonstrate the skills they’ve worked so hard to hone.
Awards were given to the top five performers in each category. Additionally, scholarships are offered to high school graduates in the program, providing further incentive for young Explorers to pursue their education and career aspirations. The Central Coast Explorer Competition is sponsored by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Advisory Foundation, an organization that has been instrumental in supporting law enforcement and public safety initiatives within our county.
I encourage any young person interested in law enforcement or community service to consider joining the Sheriff’s Explorer Program. This is not just an opportunity to learn about law enforcement — it’s a chance to build self-confidence, develop leadership qualities, and make lasting friendships while serving the community. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming an Explorer, please contact Deputy Pablo Munoz at pmunoz@ co.slo.ca.us. We are always looking for motivated young men and women to join our ranks and begin their professional path toward a career in law enforcement.
As sheriff, I could not be prouder of the young people who choose to participate in this program. They represent the future of our profession — individuals who are committed to protecting and serving their communities with honor, integrity, and dedication. The drive and passion displayed by these young men and women give me great confidence in the future of law enforcement, and I look forward to seeing where their journeys take them.
PASO WINES FOR YOUR THANKSGIVING TABLE
By Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance
Thanksgiving is an ideal time to slow down and create special memories with family and friends over an incredible meal, with incredible wines. From savory to sweet, no single wine can complete the many flavors of Thanksgiving dinner. Fortunately, you can find over 60 varieties in Paso Robles! Below are just a few pairing suggestions to complement traditional holiday dishes.
Thanksgiving wine pairings
The holidays are cause for celebration, which calls for sparkling wines to kick off your meal. Then after enjoying a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Viognier with appetizers, it’s time for the main course.
A light-bodied Pinot Noir is always a solid option, as its moderate acidity, earthiness, and red fruit flavors are a great match to traditional Thanksgiving flavors like creamy gravy, turkey, and cranberry sauce. For those who love a slightly bolder wine, look to the heritage grape of Paso Robles — Zinfandel — which adds a subtle smokiness to turkey or ham. If you prefer chilled wines, try the acidity and structure of a Chenin Blanc or Rosé.
Dessert is the sweetest way to end a Thanksgiving meal. Pair classic pumpkin or apple pie with a Riesling. Its acidity and sweetness complement the warm spices in the pies. For richer desserts like pecan pie, a port-style wine is an excellent pairing.
As always, any wine-pairing suggestions are just that. Suggestions. Like any well-meaning family advice during Thanksgiving, only you know what is right for you. Find the varietals you’re looking for on Pasowine.com.
WHARVEST 2024 QUALITY HIGH, QUANTITY LOW
hile harvest 2024 got off to a slow start, it was all about quality versus quantity. In all fairness, though, this report was filed before the heat spike in early October.
“So far we’re really happy with the fruit that we’re getting in from our former estate; we’re familiar with that fruit,” Carl Bowker told me when I met him at the grand opening of Caliza Winery at his new location on Peachy Canyon Road. Bowker was referring to his former estate on Anderson Road that was acquired by Constellation Brands earlier this summer.
“Part of our negotiations was that we were able to retain some of the fruit for ourselves on a four-year contract,” Bowker commented. “It was important for me that we could assure our customer base that our fruit and the wines remain the same for a period of time.” Future plans include replanting half of the 10-acre vineyard on his new location (formerly Asuncion Ridge winery) and new plantings on his 65-acre home ranch.
While grape quality is excellent, yields are low. “But yields per ton are pretty high. We might be getting less fruit than we anticipate, but we’re getting good returns on the amount of fruit we are getting,” Bowker said.
Reflecting on quality versus quantity, Steve Gleason concurred: “Production will be down 50 percent; that’s what I’m seeing across the board. It’s a tough year for growers. Definitely not a volume year.”
The quality, however, looks good, according to Gleason, the co-owner/ winemaker of Four Lanterns Winery. “I was punching down Syrah a couple of hours ago," he said. "It looks gorgeous, smells wonderful, great quality.”
Strong frost in spring after bud break, causing buds to freeze, resulted in lower yields in Gleason’s Westside vineyards. “Another thing that got us pretty bad is we had a spike in the squirrel population eating grapes,” he said.
How much did he lose to the hungry squirrels? “Depends on the block,” Gleason replied, citing Viognier as the victim.
“We’re not going to pick Viognier this year; we got over 10 tons last year and zero this year,” he said. “That’s the most dramatic.” A few dribs and drabs were picked to co-ferment with Syrah. “Other than that, everything is coming in at 50 percent normal yields,” he added.
While many growers rushed out to pick during an early heat spike in September, Gleason did not. “I tend to wait through it. I’ve seen, for example, our Cabernet in the middle of that heat spike at 23.5 Brix. It’s re-hydrated since then,” he commented in the third week of September.
At McPrice Myers Wines, associate winemaker Adrian Perez declares the 2024 vintage shows much potential. In an email exchange, he further noted that fruit ripeness is generous and acids are more in check from years past. “Not as sharp as we’ve seen,” commented Perez.
After two consecutive years of above-average rain, the vines, with their ample canopies, weathered the heat well, offering good uniformity in fruit quality. As for yields at McPrice, they are above average on the
west side but below average on the east side.
At Rava Wines, winemaker Sherrie Holzer was happy with this year’s harvest for sparkling wines. “Acids were higher than usual, which worked out to our benefit,” she said. For sparkling wine grapes, she noted, there is often a short picking window when the flavors shift from “green” to “ripe” while crossing fingers that the acid doesn’t drop out during that window.
“We were able to let the grapes hang a little longer this year to get the riper flavors, without compromising the acidity that we need for the sparkling base,” Holzer said.
Matt Glunz, co-owner/winemaker of Glunz Family Winery & Cellars, and his team had initial fruit picked by the third week of September. “We just harvested Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc, a newer planting of Cabernet Sauvignon from our estate and we are very pleased,” he said in an email exchange.
The summer heat reduced the acidity in the vineyards a bit with the cooler September proving beneficial. “It is allowing us to bring the grapes in when we think they’re ready instead of Mother Nature making the decision for us.” Surprisingly, his vineyard did not experience the Labor Day weekend heat spike.
I caught up with Scott Schramm at his Tin City tasting room. The co-owner/winemaker of CRUSH Vineyard was enjoying his fifth harvest from his Westside vineyards planted to Tannat, Tempranillo, and Petite Sirah. It was the end of September, and he had harvested half of his five-acre vineyard.
Schramm was letting Tannat hang for another couple of weeks. “The weather looks good. We’re getting 90-degree spikes, not 100, and prolonger heat,” he said. As for quality, Schramm compared the last two harvests of Tempranillo. The 2023 “hang” was six weeks longer than this year’s. “Hang is where we get the color, but for this year’s color to be better than something that was hanging six weeks longer is impressive,” he said.
From what I heard in the wine community, “impressive” sums up Paso’s 2024 harvest.
Early morning harvest at McPrice Myers' vineyards, Adelaida District. Photo by Jason Hickman Photography
Brenden Wilson
By BeeWench Farms
Many farmers are harvesting the last of the summer/fall crops and applying compost and cover crops to give their soil a health boost before it’s planted again next year. If you have a garden at home, planting a cover crop is a great way to get it ready for next year. Not only does it protect your soil from runoff, but you can boost the nutrients in your soil by planting a great diversity. Legumes, like clover or alfalfa, are very great at taking nitrogen from the air and putting it into the soil for future crops to use. If you add some compost, make sure to get the best Black Diamond VermiCompost! Cristy at Black Diamond is so kind and we loved visiting and learning about what they do at their farm here in Paso Robles.
If you don’t have a garden or space for a tree, you can always visit some wonderful farms this time of year. The kids love going to Jack Creek Farm to play in the kid’s area, and we always get an apple cider slushie. We also love the beautiful flowers and u-pick apple orchards at SLO Creek Farm in Avila. Both farms have some beautiful spaces for great family pictures or just to enjoy with your family. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, you might need some fun places to take family visiting.
If you need a super simple dish to share around the holidays, try either of the recipes. Pears are still delicious this time of year, but you can swap them out for apples in both recipes. Salad seems to be something no one seems to bring to potlucks, and they are super simple and popular. You can make this one after Thanksgiving to enjoy the turkey leftovers. It’s also great with chicken or without protein as a side dish. If you need a super easy and delicious dessert to share, the custard pie is so good. It takes about five minutes to prepare and will be gone just as fast.
If you want to make the best Thanksgiving meal, or bring a delicious dish to a celebration, check out the farmer’s market for the best ingredients.
Fruits:
Grapes
Pears
Pomegranates
Vegetables: Arugula
Beets
Broccoli
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Kale
A FRESHLY FARMED THANKSGIVING
Pear Custard Pie
Ingredients:
• 4 firm pears of any variety cored, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter melted
• 3 eggs
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (can sub gluten free flour)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar for garnish
• Optional: sub vanilla extract with almond and add a pinch of cinnamon
Instructions:
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 9-inch round pan with cooking spray or butter.
• Arrange the pear slices in the pan. They will rise to the top when it bakes.
• Put the butter, eggs, milk, salt, granulated sugar, flour and vanilla into a blender. Blend until smooth.
• Pour the batter over the pears. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the custard is golden and firm to the touch. Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.
Fall Chopped Salad
Salad Ingredients:
• About 2 cups of cooked turkey shredded
• 1 head romaine lettuce, (8 cups chopped) rinsed and dried
• 2 pears, cored and sliced
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup pecans, lightly toasted on a dry skillet
• 1/2 cup goat cheese (4 oz), crumbled (Stepladder or Black Market Cheese Co.)
Lettuce
Sweet potato
Winter squash
Brussels sprouts
Peas
Mushrooms
Celery
Balsamic Vinaigrette Ingredients:
• 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
• In a dry skillet, toast pecans over medium heat for 5 minutes, tossing frequently or until pecans are fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped romaine, sliced pears, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled cheese, and turkey.
• Combine dressing ingredients in a small mason jar. Cover with lid and shake vigorously to combine. If any separation occurs, shake again just before using. Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, adding it to taste then toss to combine.
NOVEMBER
Calendar of Events
OCTOBER 31 - NOVEMBER 3
PADEREWSKI FESTIVAL
DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES
The annual Paderewski Festival in Paso Robles celebrates Ignacy Jan Paderewski’s diverse legacy with concerts, exhibits, wine tastings, youth piano competition, and cultural exchanges, highlighting the region’s rich heritage. Find more information on concert times and locations here paderewskifest.com
NOVEMBER 1
FIRST FRIDAYS “DIA DE LOS MUERTOS”
DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO
5:30-7:30pm
Celebrate Día de los Muertos with festive entertainment and a variety of food and drink specials that can be found throughout the downtown at select restaurants and drink establishments.
THROUGH NOVEMBER 4
THE ART OF CHANGE EXHIBIT
ART CENTER MORRO BAY 835 MAIN ST, MORRO BAY
Noon-4pm
The Art of Change with featured artist Mark Selby reflects the times we live in and living through a uniquely stressful and chaotic time over the past few years.
NOVEMBER 7-JANUARY 6
ANNUAL WINTER FAIRE & JURIED CRAFT SHOW
ART CENTER MORRO BAY, 835 MAIN
STREET, MORRO BAY, Morro Bay Art Association is proud to present The Annual Winter Faire & Juried Craft Show, featuring a collection of exceptional paintings, photography and fine crafts, spanning a variety of artistic mediums from traditional to contemporary. Crafts include fiber, wood, glass, sculpture, pottery, jewelry and more. There will be a reception November 10 from 2-4pm.
NOVEMBER 9
HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE
PAVILION ON THE LAKE, ATASCADERO 10am-3pm
Kick off the holiday season by shopping for gifts or for yourself from over 50 vendors at this one-day craft show.
NOVEMBER 10
VICTORIAN MOURNING
TRADITIONS AT THE JACK HOUSE
HISTORIC JACK HOUSE, 536 MARSH
STREET, SAN LUIS OBISPO
1-4pm
Step back in time and experience the customs and rituals of a bygone era with the Victorian Mourning Traditions event series at the Jack House. In collaboration with the History Center of San Luis Obispo County, this historical experience invites you to explore the detailed ways people in the Victorian era honored their departed loved ones. For all ages and free. Donations are welcome.
NOVEMBER 11
VETERANS MEMORIAL CEREMONY
THE VETERANS MEMORIAL, CORNER OF MORRO AND PORTOLA ROADS, ATASCADERO 11am
Honor Veterans at the annual Veterans Day Ceremony at the Faces of Freedom Memorial. For more information, visit facesoffreedommemorial.org
VETERANS DAY CEREMONY
VETERANS MEMORIAL, PASO ROBLES
DISTRICT CEMETARY 11am
Program features an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, welcome, guest speaker, patriotic songs, fly-over, closing prayer, honor guard, and Taps. Flags are placed at all identified veteran’s graves by American Legion Post 50 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10965.
EVENT DETAILS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE verify prior to attending.
NOVEMBER 15-17
SURFING FOR HOPE LONGBOARD CLASSIC
PISMO BEACH 8am-2pm
Helping inspire youth and families affected by cancer and modern-day struggles through the positive energy of surfing, skateboarding and outdoor appreciation, the Surfing for Hope Longboard classic will be fun to watch.
4TH ANNUAL ATASCADERO FALL
FEST
SUNKEN GARDENS, DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO
Nov. 15: 4-10pm, Nov. 16-17 noon-10pm
The three-day, free admission event is a family-friendly full-scale carnival will include rides, games, vendors, breweries, music, and more!
NOVEMBER 16
ANNUAL ELEGANT HOLIDAY EVENING DOWNTOWN
DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES 5-8pm
Free open house, refreshments, wine and bites, and entertainment for all to enjoy. Performance of “Live Mannequins” by Class Act Dance Studio.
NOVEMBER 23
TEMPLETON FOUNDER’S DAY
TEMPLETON HISTORICAL MUSEUM
309 S. MAIN ST., TEMPLETON 11am-3pm
The day’s festivities include engaging short lectures on Templeton’s past, guided tours of the museum’s historic buildings, live demonstrations by a working blacksmith, and, weather permitting, a guided walking tour exploring Templeton’s historic structures.
NOVEMBER 28
THANKSGIVING DAY
THANKSGIVING DAY FOR PASO ROBLES CENTENNIAL PARK, PASO ROBLES 12-2pm
A celebration of thanks serving over 1,500 men, women, and children a traditional Thanksgiving meal at no cost. A true expression of community that brings diverse people together to share the day with others. All made possible through the generosity of caring individuals, students, organizations, churches, and businesses.
ECHO TURKEY TROT
ATASCADERO LAKE PARK BANDSTAND 8:30am
Join us for a 5K fun run/walk on Thanksgiving morning at Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand at 8:30 a.m. Be sure to wear your best turkey costume as there will be prizes for adults, children and pets!
19TH ANNUAL TURKEY TROT
FOOD 4 LESS PARKING LOT, CRESTON RD PASO ROBLES
7am check-in
Presented by the Paso Robles High School Wrestling Team: 1st place medals for 10K run for each division (6). Divisions: Men, Women, High School, Middle School, Open, Masters, Tee shirts for the first 100 Runners, Best Turkey Costume Contest. Register online raceroster.com or day of.
NOVEMBER 29
38TH ANNUAL DOWNTOWN LIGHTING CEREMONY
CITY PARK, PASO ROBLES 5:30pm
See the first lights shine downtown, along with a visit from Mrs. Claus.
NOVEMBER 30
SMALL BUSINESS
SATURDAY
DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES
This event encourages shoppers to get out and support the stores and restaurants that make Paso Robles stores and cuisine options unlike any other.
94th Annual Paso Robles Pioneer Day
Traditions grow with first-ever Pioneer Games
The 94th annual Paso Robles Pioneer Day, held on October 12, introduced the first-ever Pioneer Games, adding a fresh twist to long-standing traditions. The free event, organized by Jon Fuller and inspired by his experiences at the Antelope Valley Fair, featured activities like the Hay Hurdle Relay, Tug of War, and Tractor Stake Race. Over 300 contestants and spectators enjoyed the games, which received positive feedback. The Paso Robles High School football team and local police also participated, adding a community touch to the event.
Other popular Pioneer Day traditions continued, such as the Whiskerino contest, where local resident Nathan Williams won "Fullest Beard." The parade featured local groups, with the JB Dewar Tractor Restoration Program winning the Judges’ Choice award. Since its inception in 1931, Pioneer Day has brought together city folk and farmers for a day of celebration, with the motto "leave your pocketbook at home" still intact.
Photos by Derek Luff
DIRECTORY OF LOCAL
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.
Vintage Community Church 692 Peterson Ranch Road Services: 9 & 11 a.m. Coaches: Aaron Porter, Dayn Mansfield (805) 296-1120
SAN MIGUEL
Iglesia Fuente De Agua Viva
301 13th St. Services: 10 a.m. & 7 p.m.
Pastor Mike Duran (805) 467-5500
Mission San Miguel Parish
775 Mission Street
Daily Mass: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am
Father Lucas Pantoja (805) 467-2131 1
SHANDON
Shandon Assembly of God
420 Los Altos Ave.
Spanish Service: Sun. 5 p.m., Thurs. 7 p.m. Pastor Jim Mei (805)226-9737
Last Word • Sideways Uncorked
WINE & FILM: A PERFECT PAIRING EXPLORED IN
Wine and film have long shared a symbiotic relationship, with both art forms drawing on rich narratives and sensory experiences to engage and captivate audiences. In the new book Sideways Uncorked, co-authored by renowned film critic Kirk Honeycutt and our very own wine editor, Mira Advani Honeycutt, this intersection of wine and cinema is brought to life in exquisite detail. By focusing on Alexander Payne’s critically acclaimed 2004 film Sideways, the book not only chronicles the making of the movie but also explores its transformative impact on the wine industry, particularly in the Santa Barbara region.
At the heart of Sideways is a road trip through California’s wine country taken by two middleaged friends, Miles and Jack. While the film explores themes of friendship, love, and midlife crises, the scenic backdrop of Santa Barbara wine country and the focus on Pinot Noir elevate the film from a comedy into a love letter to wine. Mira Honeycutt notes, “Sideways didn’t just tell a story; it invited viewers into the experience of wine — its richness, its complexity, and the journey it takes from vineyard to glass.”
Rex Pickett, the author of the original novel, wrote the book during a difficult time in his life, blending humor and introspection with a deep love of wine. When director Alexander Payne saw the potential for a film adaptation, a cinematic classic was born. The movie not only won multiple Academy Award nominations but also earned widespread critical acclaim. Payne’s adaptation won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay, but perhaps its most lasting impact has been on wine culture.
Before Sideways, Santa Barbara’s wine country was somewhat of a hidden gem, appreciated by wine insiders but relatively unknown to the
By Hayley Mattson
years following the film’s release.
“People connected with the emotion and vulnerability of Pinot Noir in the same way they connected with the film’s characters,” Mira explains. “Pinot Noir, like the film, is layered, complex, and full of subtle beauty.”
Sideways Uncorked delves into this phenomenon, examining how a single character’s love for a particular wine influenced an entire market.
However, not all wines fared so well. Merlot, which was famously disparaged by Miles in his now-iconic line, “I am not drinking any [expletive] Merlot!” saw a sharp decline in sales. This shift in consumer preferences became known as “the Sideways effect,” a clear example of how films can shape cultural trends. The book includes interviews with winemakers, restaurateurs, and wine aficionados who discuss the profound impact of Sideways on wine culture.
broader public. “After the film’s success, there was a huge surge in interest,” explains Kirk. “People who had never heard of Santa Barbara wine country were suddenly flocking to its vineyards, eager to taste the wines that played such a central role in the film.” Sideways Uncorked carefully traces this transformation, offering insight into how one film forever changed the course of wine tourism in the region.
One of the most significant legacies of Sideways is the rise of Pinot Noir. Miles, the film’s protagonist, is a passionate advocate for the grape, calling it “thin-skinned, temperamental,” but “hauntingly brilliant.” This romantic view of Pinot Noir resonated with audiences, sparking a significant increase in its popularity. Wine sales reflected this newfound appreciation — Pinot Noir became a must-try for wine lovers, with sales skyrocketing in the
The strength of Sideways Uncorked lies in the unique partnership between Kirk and Mira. Kirk, with his decades of experience as a film critic, brings a detailed analysis of Sideways as a piece of cinema, offering insights into its narrative, direction, and cultural importance. Meanwhile, Mira’s expertise in wine journalism adds depth to the exploration of winemaking. She describes the nuances of Santa Barbara’s vineyards, the climate, and the craft that goes into creating the wines featured in the film.
The book’s recent launch at Napa Valley’s Culinary Institute of America at Copia was a sold-out event, drawing fans, filmmakers, and wine lovers alike. Director Alexander Payne praised the book, remarking, “It’s so thorough that even I learned things I didn’t know.” Set for release on November 5, Sideways Uncorked promises to captivate cinephiles, wine enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates great storytelling.
