Paso Robles Press • March 21, 2024

PASO ROBLES — Following staff introduction at the start of the Paso Robles City Council on Tuesday, March 19, City Councilmember Chris Bausch issued an apology to city staff.

Bausch stated that it came to his attention that some city employees felt uncomfortable by his comments during paid parking discussion when he referred to employees as staff that he was frustrated with.

“I truly believe that the City of Paso Robles has the best staff that I have ever worked with in my 12 years of public service,” said Bausch during his apology. “I am very appreciative of their hard work, creativity, dedication, and service. I regret that my words or actions have ever suggested otherwise.”

During public comment,

District 1 San Luis Obispo County Supervisor John Peschong presented a recent proclamation approved by the Board of Supervisors. This year marks the 100-year anniversary of the Pittsburgh Pirates historic spring training in Paso Robles. To celebrate, the Paso Robles History Museum has unveiled a new exhibit about Paso Robles baseball.

Later in the meeting, council discussed the proposed City Council goals for fiscal years 2024-25 and 2025-26. Every two years, the city adopts a set of goals and objectives for the upcoming two-year budget cycle.

In total, staff developed six goal areas:

Transportation and Infrastructure

• Public Safety Services

• Recreational, Cultural, and

Paso Robles High School FFA banquet raises

over $200,000 to support program

Funds support travel expenses to conferences, competitions, and beyond

PASO ROBLES — The community gathered on Saturday, March 9, to support the nearly 500 Paso Robles High School FFA Chapter members.

The Estrella Hall building at the Paso Robles Event Center was full of patrons ready to support the program.

Agriculture Department

Chair Theresa Clark told Paso

Robles Press of the event, “The generosity of our community is amazing and we are thankful for the support they have given these students.”

The annual event has gained popularity throughout the last few years. What started as a drive-thru barbecue has evolved into a larger event complete with dinner, drinks, and a live auction. Clark thanks the group of supportive parents and sponsors who help bring the event into fruition each year.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will help support the chapter’s travel expenses to FFA conventions, conferences, competitions, and events throughout the year.

The funds will also go towards senior scholarships and more to help the program move forward. Recently, the parent boosters group was able to fund new show equipment for the livestock teams who take their projects to the fair.

The chapter continues to rise in FFA excellence as they were named fifth in the state last year. Members have been busy at various competitions while also gearing up for the Salinas Valley Fair in May and the California Mid-State Fair in July — both of which will soon be here for those taking animal and industrial projects.

Last weekend, the Chapters

Livestock Judging and Veterinary Science teams attended the Modesto Junior College Field Day. During field days, FFA teams ranging from livestock judging to poultry and horticulture compete against other FFA chapters in the state. At Modesto this year, nearly 2,000 contestants competed in over 20 events.

The livestock judging team, including members Briley Bowen, Chandler Shaffer, Lane Gardner, and Dawson Jaureguy, placed 18th overall and ninth in swine judging. The veterinary science team, including Jaxyn Meyers, April

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Judge’s ruling on county overcharge for election recount up for reconsideration

Recount was for the 2022 District 2 San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors election

SAN LUIS OBISPO

COUNTY — After a judge ruled that San Luis Obispo County Clerk-Recorder Elaina Cano overcharged a woman who requested a ballot recount for the 2022 District 2 San Luis Obispo (SLO) County Board of Supervisors election, the county submitted a new motion to reconsider the ruling.

In 2022, Darcia Stebbens requested the ballot recount, which named Bruce Gibson the District 2 SLO County Supervisor. Stebbens volun-

The

teered as the front person for the initiative backed by a community group named the SLO County Citizens Action Team (SLOCCAT). The group comprises local citizen volun-

teers concerned with the integrity of the voting system in California at all levels.

Stebbens told Paso Robles Press, “I do not believe that election should have been certi-

fied,” based on documentation received during the recount process.

In January 2024, Judge Rita Federman ruled that Cano did

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SAN LUIS OBISPO

COUNTY — With the final stretch of election count upon us, the county is anxiously waiting for official certification of the March 5 primary election. According to the San Luis Obispo County Clerk Recorder’s office, that isn’t expeced to happen until about March 27.

Tuesday, March 12, was the final day for vote-by-mail ballots (VBM) postmarked on or before Election Day to arrive at the Elections Office to be counted. By law, the Clerk-Recorder has 30 days from Election Day to certify the election results. Until then, the Clerk-Recorder’s office says they have to complete the following:

• Roster scanning and balancing

• Forwarding VBM ballots to other counties (and receiving and processing those sent here)

Provisional ballot research and verification

• VBM ballot scanning

• VBM ballot scanning

• Signature curing

• VBM ballot processing (removing from envelopes, checking for identifying marks, bundling)

Tabulating

• Adjudication

• Reporting Results

• 1 percent Manual Tally

The most recent count of votes shows District 5 County Supervisor candidate Heather Moreno heading further into the lead. She current leads the polls with 54.79 percent of the vote (7,249 votes) against Susan Funk who has the remaining 45.21 percent of the vote (5,982 votes). Over 1,200 votes now separate them.

Moreno is currently serving as the Atascadero City Mayor. She is the second mayor in the city’s history. Funk currently serves as an Atascadero City Council member. They both ran to represent District 5 on the Board of Supervisors, currently held by Debbie Arnold, who did not seek re-election. The district represents Atascadero, Cal Poly State University (portion), California Valley, Creston, Garden Farms, Pozo, San Luis Obispo (portion), and Santa Margarita.

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FFA BANQUET

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Clements, Reese Ponti, and Jaydence Young, placed 25th overall and Clements placed ninth in the Practicums.

Earlier this month, members participated in the Regional Spring Meeting and Regional Public Speaking Competition. Briley Bowen participated in the Impromptu and placed in second in the region. Now, she will move on to be a state finalist. During that competition, Reese Ponti, Liam Clark, and Jaydence Young competed at the Regional level for Creed and Kiana Keogh competed in the Job Interview.

Many of the FFA competitions help students with public speaking, critical thinking, and other skills to help them in various careers later in life.

PRHS FFA Booster President Aimee Richard estimates that this year’s fundraiser will surpass last year’s record.

“This fundraiser has continued to grow and every year we continue to surpass the previous year’s record. We are in complete awe of the tremendous generosity and support from the community we call home. We could not do this without the small army of volunteers and supporters who keep coming back year after year,” said Richard.

She estimates that between donations of goods and services and the night of, they will raise over $200,000 in total from the event.

“This fundraiser is vital to the success of our Chapter and students,” added Clark. “It provides so many opportunities for our students and helps them develop into young leaders for our community and our industry.”

ELECTION UPDATE

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With Moreno likely taking the District 5 seat and term as Atascadero mayor ending in 2024 anyway, the mayoral position is up for grabs.

Current Atascadero Councilmember Charles Bourbeau has already announced his bid for the seat — his term on council also expires in 2024. No other candidates have announced their bid for the mayoral seat yet. However, the nomination period for local elections will open later this year. Below are election results from the March 15 count, which was available at the time of print.

San Luis Obispo County Supervisor

ELECTION RECOUNT

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District 1

John Peschong — 100 percent (8,514)

San Luis Obispo County Supervisor

District 3

Dawn Ortiz-Legg — 94.48 percent (9,850)

San Luis Obispo County Supervisor

District 5

Susan Funk — 45.21 percent (5,982)

Heather Moreno — 54.79 percent (7,249)

Presidential Primary Election Race (County Results)

Democratic Primary:

Joe Biden — 93.82 percent (28,530)

Republican Party:

not adequately prove that $5,088 of overtime hours was worked by salary employees during the recount. Originally, Stebbens was charged $53,000 by the county to pay for the recount. Therefore, the residing judge ruled that Stebbens was overcharged over $5,000.

However, the county has since submitted a motion to the SLO County Superior Court asking for the judge to reconsider the ruling. Their reasoning states that county code permits salaried employees to work beyond the standard eight-hour workday, and they should be duly compensated for any labor they perform during the recount.

Stebbens had until March 6 to file her response to the motion, which she tells Paso Robles Press

PR CITY

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Open Space Homelessness Response

• Community & Economic Development

• Efficient Responsive Government

On March 2, the city held a budget and goals workshop attended by residents and staff for input.

Some of the requested goals suggested or input received included:

• Members of the public and Councilmembers Bausch and Steve Gregory signified support for a goal specific

Donald J. Trump — 75.84 percent (20,451)

• Nikki Haley — 20.86 percent (5,624)

OTHER NOTABLE

NORTH COUNTY RACES

California US Senate (Full Term)

— Adam Schiff is currently leading the race at 37.15 percent with Steve Garvey close behind at 34.38 percent.

• California US Senate Special (Partial Term) — Steve Garvey is in the lead with 35.97 percent and Adam Schiff follows close at 31.54 percent

Prop 1 Behavioral Health Services Measure — 52.20

that she did. She also reiterates to us that while this court case is centered around money, it highlights a bigger conversation that she and others felt the recount process was not transparent enough for the public. She notes that during the recount in June 2022 for the first recount called for in the District 4 Supervisor race between Jimmy Paulding and Lynn Compton, she and members of SLOCCAT were not given access to observe some of the counting procedures.

As far as the bill is concerned, Stebbens says she would want to see the judge remove all hours worked by salaried employees since they would have been paid to work by the county whether or not they worked on the recount.

According to California Code of Regulations 20815, “At least one day prior to the commencement of the recount, the elections official shall

to increasing the number of affordable housing units within the city. Councilmembers Fred Strong and Sharon Roden discussed the need for long-term planning to accommodate library space needs and City Hall space needs, respectively. A member of the public requested the city install a crosswalk signal at Creston Road and Myrtlewood Road.

• A member of the public requested the city establish a grant program to assist non-profits in sponsoring culturally diverse events within the city.

• ECHO Paso Robles staff requested the City Council consider providing a funding contribution for shelter operations for Fiscal Years 2024-25 and 202526.

Staff provided their responses to each of the public inputs: Staff has added a goal for this item under the Community and Economic Development Goal Area for City Council’s consideration.

• The proposed goals include an Action Item that states: Encourage creativity, collaboration, and connection among city staff

percent voting no and 47.80 percent voting yes.

• California US House District 19 Jason Anderson is in the lead with 50.11 percent and Jimmy Panetta following with 46.62 percent.

• California US House District 24 — Salud Carbajal is in the lead with 57.52 percent and Thomas Cole in second with 36.60 percent.

• California State Senate District 17 — John Laird is currently in the lead with 55.70 percent and Tony Virrueta follows behind with 27.32 percent.

California State Senate District 21 — Monique S. Limon is in the lead with 51.34 percent with Elijah

determine the estimated cost for the first day of the recount and shall advise the requestor in writing of the advance deposit required. The requestor shall, before the recount is commenced, deposit this amount with the elections official.

The same procedure shall be followed for each subsequent day of the recount. Daily estimates may vary based upon experience or additional requests made during the course of the recount.”

It continues to say that “All actual costs of the recount that would not have been incurred but for the requestor’s particular recount request shall be directly recoverable from the requestor and may include, but are not limited to, additional supervision hours, security guard hours, the elections official’s staff hours, space rental, transportation of ballots and materials and administrative costs.”

The code adds that a receipt of payment for

and the public by resolving space needs and creating welcoming, functional workspaces at City Hall/ Library, Centennial Park, and the Corporation Yard. Although this Action Item is oriented more toward maximizing existing space through renovation and retrofitting, it will also include a forward-looking analysis to determine what opportunities exist to uncouple City Hall from the Library.

• Staff are evaluating this request. Preliminary research has indicated the crosswalk at Myrtlewood will be removed and

Mack 48.66 percent.

• California State Assembly District 30 — Dawn Addis is in the lead with 56.83 percent and Dalila Epperson with 43.17 percent.

• California State Assembly District 37 — Sari Domingues jumped into the lead with 50.86 percent and Gregg Hart 49.14 percent.

For voting inquiries, contact the Elections Office at (805) 781-5228 or elections@co.slo.ca.us. Additional information can be found on the Voter FAQ page, and detailed election information at slovote.com/ March2024.

each daily deposit will be provided and contain a daily log of “estimated costs, deposits, actual expenses and amount of refund due, if any.”

In her original decision, Federman specifically did not agree with the 50 hours worked by three employees outside of the regular eighthour work day and on the weekend and that it was not proven to be considered part of the actual costs for the recount.

Federman then ordered the county to remove those hours from the bill and that Stebbens would not have to pay the remaining $4,448. The judge was expected to make her decision on the new motion from the county after March 15. She will either choose to schedule another hearing for the parties to present arguments or make a decision on her own with the submitted briefs. As of now, no decision or new ruling have been made.

replaced with a signalized crosswalk at nearby Stoney Creek Road when a traffic signal is installed at that location. This is identified within the Beechwood Specific Plan Environmental Impact Report. Staff does not recommend adding this to the goals document at this time. Staff are evaluating this request. Staff will return to the City Council with recommendations. Staff does not recommend adding this to the goals document at this time. Staff will include this request as part of the

Proposed Budget for discussion and direction by the City Council. Staff does not recommend adding this to the goals document at this time.

The city has also planned to discuss proposed goals and provide a budget overview at the next Coffee with the City Manager event to be held on Friday, March 22, at 7:30 a.m. in the Patina Room at Cal Coast Brewing. City Council then unanimously approved the city goals and budget for the next two years. The next Paso Robles City Council meeting is scheduled for April 2 at 6:30 p.m.

The Estrella Hall building at the Paso Robles Event Center was full of patrons ready to support the Paso Robles High FFA banquet. Photos by Camille DeVaul

San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau announces new executive director

San Luis Obispo County since 1996.

Clark has been a board member of the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau for 27 years, serving 10 years on the Executive Committee and two years as president.

to continue advocating for California production agriculture, our great state’s most important industry.”

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

— Paul Clark, longtime San Luis Obispo County resident, Shandon cattle rancher, and attorney, has been selected by the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau as its new executive director. He succeeds Brent Burchett, who became executive director in 2019, and has moved back to Kentucky to be closer to family.

Clark is a graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and McGeorge School of Law. He has been an attorney in

Additionally, he serves as the vice chair and a member of the Executive Committee of the San Luis Obispo County Farm Supply Board of Directors and is a member of the San Luis Obispo County Cattlemen’s Association and the Estrella Warbirds Museum.

“I’m honored to be chosen as the new executive director. Having worked with four previous executive directors of our Farm Bureau, I know I have big shoes to fill. I’m excited to work with so many good friends I have made over the years

The San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau is a long-established county organization, part of the California Farm Bureau Federation and the American Farm Bureau Federation, which provides unsurpassed experience in the realm of representing and protecting farming and ranching by influencing policy at all levels of government, educating consumers and providing innovative programs and solutions to some of the most complicated issues.

The San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau is nearing its 105th anniversary year, representing all of local agriculture and the many commodities produced by its membership.

Clark joins the staff which includes Deputy Executive Director Catie Field and Membership Manager Jesslyn Blank. The Farm Bureau, a policy organization, is served by a volunteer Board of Directors made up of directors, district directors, farm center chairs, and others. A five member Executive Officer Committee is elected from the board. San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau committees include: Legislative, Rural Health and Safety, Farm Bureau Women, and those appointed to evaluate special issues.

“We’re excited to have Paul make the transition from board member to executive director,” says Sarah Kramer, president of the San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau. “His experience makes him well suited to

continue Farm Bureau’s advocacy for farmers and ranchers.”

Clark begins his official duties as executive director on April 15.

Progress being made on Highway 1 landslides

“Crews have continued to haul slide material away from the slide as spider excavators have worked their way down the slope,” the Caltrans release said. “Crews have also been able to loosen debris material using equipment stationed in the roadway.”

SAN LUIS OBISPO

COUNTY — If readers are planning a day trip to Monterey, it would be best to take Highway 101 for the immediate future. Progress continues to be made on three major landslides that have closed a long section of Hwy 1 through Big Sur for months, though recent rainstorms have hampered the work.

“Although a 12.1-mile closure of Highway 1 is in place due to these repairs, the vast majority of Highway 1 remains open for travelers,” reads a March 12 news release from Caltrans District 5’s Kevin Drabinski. “Highway 1 remains open from the Monterey/Carmel area to just south of the Esalen Institute, and from the Cambria/San Simeon area to just south of Limekiln State Park.”

The rains brought temporary halts to the work but the crews “have been able to safeguard progress and return to production in the immediate aftermath of wet weather,” according to the release.

Each of the three major slides has a unique set of issues to deal with.

The Dolan Point Slide, located at Post Mile 29.5, on the northernmost slide, recently had some work done using scaling machines.

They hope to have this slide cleared in the next few weeks and then plan to install “a drapery system over the face of the slide,” the release said, “to protect the highway from any rock fall in the future. The final installation of the drapery system will be completed once an assist helicopter has been scheduled. Repairs are estimated to be completed at the Dolan Point Slide by May 1.”

The drapery system is expected to be similar to one installed on sections of Hwy 41 between Morro Bay and Atascadero, along sections of the roadway’s “S” curves to keep large boulders from falling onto the roadway.

The Regents Slide, located at PM 27.8 is still being assessed after a survey was conducted using drones but there’s still red tape to wade through.

“This data has been processed and is being used in the development of a final repair design,” the news release said. “Parallel efforts are being made to secure necessary environmental clearances for the repair work to begin.”

Caltrans expects the final repair designs to be done soon and once they get environmental approvals, then they plan to make estimates as to when that slide might be cleared and the roadway further opened to traffic.

Paul’s Slide, which is located at PM 22 and is the largest and most troublesome of the three, has crews working around the clock. The estimated date for reopening is sometime in late spring of this year, but the mountain is still moving.

“Rock scaling crews,” Drabinski said, “brought down material from the slopes above the repair site in late February, as slide activity has continued to be a feature that has consistently accompanied these repairs.”

Caltrans is using convoys from both sides of Paul’s Slide to assist the residents stuck in between. “Daily convoys have continued to be scheduled through Paul’s Slide in the

north and southbound direction,” Drabinski said. “These convoys allow for local residents living north of Paul’s Slide to travel south through Paul’s Slide to secure supplies now that travel to the north is blocked by the Dolan Point and Regent’s Slides.”

That drive-around is over a dirt roadway, so again, the weather plays a significant role. “Because passage through Paul’s Slide is by way of a dirt roadbed, convoys will continue as long as site conditions and weather make for safe travel,” Drabinski said.

Caltrans had estimated fixing Paul’s Slide, which occurred during January 2023’s massive storms, would

cost some $88 million.

Landslides on Hwy 1 have been limiting travel over the State’s most scenic of highways since 2017, when heavy rains damaged a major road bridge near Julia Pfeiffer State Park, as well as causing the Mud Creek Slide closer to SLO County.

Mud Creek was the largest landslide in State history.

An estimated 5 million vehicles a year travel Hwy 1 through Big Sur bringing visitors south to the North Coast and SLO County, as well as tourists going north through Big Sur and into Carmel and Monterey. Closing the highway for any extended length of time can have negative effects on tourism, especially with tour buses, to the

North Coast of SLO County. With a trio of slip outs blocking the way, Caltrans adjusted the temporary dead ends. “The northern closure point on Highway 1 remains at Lime Creek [at PM 32.1],” the news release said. “The southern closure point remains at PM 20, [just south of Limekiln State Park], making for a 12.1-mile closure on the coast.”

Readers can get road updates and information about closures via Dist. 5 social media sites, see: @CaltransD5 on X; on Facebook at: Caltrans Central Coast (District 5); and on Instagram at: Caltrans_D5. Information about road conditions statewide is also available online at quickmap.dot.ca.gov.

(Top photo) Work is progressing on the massive Paul’s Slide, located at Post Mile 22 near Lucia. (Bottom) This photo shows the Dolan Slide on Highway 1 at Post Mile 29.5. Photos Courtesy of Caltrans

Longtime county resident, Shandon cattle rancher, and attorney Paul Clark succeeds Brent Burchett

PAUL CLARK

PASO ROBLES

Paso Robles Police investigate shooting

On Saturday, March 16, about 13 minutes after midnight, the Paso Robles Police Department began receiving several calls regarding a single shot heard in the 3100 block of Spring Street. Officers arrived on scene and located a parked vehicle with its front right passenger window shot out. Inside the parked vehicle was a solo occupant in the passenger seat, who slept through the entire ordeal. Fortunately, this person was uninjured.

At about 12:30 a.m., as officers and detectives were on scene, a second shot was heard a few blocks north, in the 3400 block of Spring Street. Officers converged on the area but were unable to locate the second shooting.

The suspect is described as a slender male, wearing jeans and a black hooded sweatshirt.

This is an ongoing investigation, and the Paso Robles Police Department is requesting that anyone with any information call the PRPD at (805) 237-6464. Persons wishing to remain anonymous are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers’ 24-hour hotline at (805) 549-STOP or by texting “SLOTIPS” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).

TLC & Shaggy are coming to the California Mid-State Fair on Thursday, July 25

The California Mid-State Fair has announced that TLC & Shaggy have been confirmed to perform in concert on Thursday, July 25. DJ Flashback will open the show at 7:30 p.m., with the concert taking place in the Chumash Grandstand Arena at the Paso Robles Event Center as part of the Michelob Ultra Concert Series presented by Visit SLO CAL.

Ticket prices for the show are $50, $60, $75, and $85 and will go on sale Friday, March 22, starting at 10 a.m. to the general public.

New this year is a program called “Local Fan of the Fair,” which will allow registered local fans one-hour early access to purchase tickets. For more information about this early access, visit MidStateFair.com.

Tickets can be purchased on the California Mid-State Fair’s Official website MidStateFair.com. The Box Office cannot guarantee the authenticity or validity of any tickets purchased outside of their official channel.

The 2024 California Mid-State Fair takes place in Paso Robles, and runs July 17 through July 28.

Pat Butler placed on brief lockdown due to police activity

On Monday, March 18, at about 9:40 a.m., Paso Robles Police officers attempted to stop a suspicious vehicle near Niblick Road and Nicklaus Street. The driver did not immediately yield and attempted to flee from officers by pulling into the parking lot at Pat Butler Elementary School. The two occupants of the vehicle refused to exit the vehicle, so out of an abundance of caution, Pat Butler staff initiated a lockdown, escorting students back into their classrooms.

To safely bring this situation to an end, officers were forced to break a window of the car. The driver was ultimately arrested for an outstanding warrant, and the passenger was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. A search of the vehicle revealed potential evidence of property crimes and identity theft.

The Paso Robles Police Department wants to clarify that this incident was not related to Pat Butler Elementary School or its students. The lockdown was a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the school community during the traffic stop. Once the situation was resolved and deemed safe by law enforcement, the lockdown was lifted.

This is an ongoing investigation, and the Paso Robles Police Department is requesting anyone with any information to call the PRPD at (805) 237-6464.

Persons wishing to remain anonymous are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers’

NEWS BRIEFS

24-hour hotline at (805) 549-STOP or by texting “SLOTIPS” plus your message” to CRIMES (274637).

Firefighters respond to residential structure fire at Evert Court

On Wednesday, March 13, at 6:36 p.m., Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services responded to a report of a residential structure fire on Evert Court.

According to a press release from Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services, firefighters arrived at the scene to discover the attached garage fully involved with a fire. There were no occupants home at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported. The fire was quickly contained to the garage and the attack space above it before extending into the living quarters.

Two fire engines, one ladder truck, one Fire Investigator, and one Battalion Chief from Paso Robles responded to the scene. Under the city’s automatic aid agreement, one engine and one battalion chief from CAL FIRE/SLO County and one engine from Atascadero Fire immediately responded to assist.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Paso 4th of July event seeking concessionaire and food trucks

The City of Paso Robles and Travel Paso are once again hosting a free 4th of July celebration at Barney Schwartz Park and seeking food trucks and one local nonprofit organization to run the concession stand. This event has become extremely popular with local residents, and a large turnout is expected this year.

The celebration runs from 2 to 10 p.m. at Barney Schwartz Park and is estimated to host thousands of attendees.

Last year’s event drew around 10,000 attendees, and attendance is expected to exceed that this year. This year will have the addition of two live bands and an expanded Fun Zone.

This year, the city is looking for 8-10 food trucks or mobile vendors to be onsite from 2 to 10 p.m. and for a local nonprofit organization to run the concession stand.

“We’re looking for a local sports organization or nonprofit to run the concession stand and keep the proceeds,” states Freda Berman, who runs the event for the city. “We are waiving permit fees and not asking for any sort of commission. We just want attendees to have interesting food choices and for the community to benefit from the sales generated at this free event. We expect a very large crowd at the park for the event and fireworks.”

Ice chests and outside food are allowed at Barney Schwartz Park during the event. No alcohol will be sold.

Anyone interested in applying can download the Concessionaire and Food Truck applications at prcity.com/July4.

Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services reminds you to check your smoke alarms

The Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services Department encourages you to check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms with the recent time change on March 10.

While it has been traditional to pair daylight savings time with the reminder to check your smoke alarms, if your smoke alarms are hard-wired, or you have a newer model with a 10-year

lithium battery, you may not need to change the batteries. Simply press the test button on each unit, and make sure the alarm rings loud and clear.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends replacing your alarms every 10 years. The date of manufacture is usually listed on the back of the alarm. If it’s time for you to get new units, now is the perfect time to do so. Make sure to record the date you changed your alarms.

According to the NFPA, three out of five home fire deaths were caused by fires in properties with no smoke alarms (41 percent) or smoke alarms that failed to operate (16 percent). The risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half in homes with working smoke alarms.

“Smoke alarms can alert you to a fire in your home, giving you the precious time you need to escape safely,” says Paso Robles Fire Captain/Paramedic John Prickett.

Here are some useful tips and suggestions for using smoke alarms in ways that give the most protection in case of a fire. Following are some of these tips: Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound. Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working. There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use both types of alarms in the home. A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet from the stove. People who are hard of hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.

For information about the Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services Department and helpful tips on staying safe, please visit prcity.com/EmergencyServices.

ATASCADERO

City receives 2023-2025 Excellence Award in Budgeting

The City of Atascadero has once again been honored with the Excellence Award in Budgeting from the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) for the City’s 20232025 Operating Budget. The budget focuses on the City Council’s and the community’s established priorities and considers those priorities for both the short and the long term.

The CSMFO is the preeminent resource for promoting excellence in government finance. The Budget Awards Program is designed to recognize those agencies whose budget documents meet certain statewide standards and requirements considered to be of the highest quality. The award represents significant accomplishment by a government and its leadership in meeting high standards and setting an example by encouraging others in their efforts to achieve and maintain an appropriate standard of excellence.

“The CSMFO Excellence Award in Budgeting is not new to our city’s Administrative Services Department, as they continue to be recognized for outstanding financial reports on a consistent basis,” said Mayor Heather Moreno. “We are very proud of their countless hours and continued efforts to excel in this area and the city’s ongoing commitment to responsible stewardship and transparency of public funds!”

“Our finance team, led by Director Jeri Rangel, puts in many hours of extremely hard work to prepare and present our budget in a manner that is accurate, clear and easily accessible, to ensure complete transparency to everyone in our community,” said City Manager Jim Lewis. “We appreciate all of the coordination that takes place to make it possible, including staff from every city department, our coun-

cilmembers and the Finance Committee, together with all of the members of our community who participated in the budget process.”

Founded in 1957, the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers is a statewide organization serving all California municipal finance professionals. CSMFO promotes excellence in financial management through innovation, continuing education, and the professional development of its members. Visit csmfo.org for more information about the organization.

Atascadero S&P Global Ratings Raised to ‘A+’

The City of Atascadero announced that Standard & Poor’s Global Ratings has raised its long-term credit rating to ‘A+’ for the Atascadero Successor Agency of the Community Redevelopment Agency’s series 2024A and 2024B Tax Allocation Refunding Bonds. The Rating Services reports the outlook is stable. According to S&P Global Ratings, the stable outlook reflects their opinion that the Redevelopment Project Area will continue to grow steadily and will have a consistent ability to cover all bond payments.

The Rating Service evaluated a number of factors including assessed value (AV) growth, growth of the local economy, the balance of residential and commercial properties, the diversity in the concentration of the top 10 taxpayers, limitations on issuance of additional debt, and environmental, social and governance factors.

The S&P Global Ratings report went on to state, “Overall, project area AV has grown steadily during the past few years with an average growth rate of 5.6 percent annually. Most recently, project area AV increased by 7.3 percent in fiscal 2024, bringing total project area AV up to $1.037 billion with incremental AV increasing to $755.4 million. Management indicates that they expect this growth trend will continue, with further growth expected for the foreseeable future.”

The city, acting in capacity of the Successor Agency, plans to retire the two existing bond issues (2004 Tax Allocation Bonds and 2010 Lease Revenue Bonds) by issuing the 2024A and 2024B Tax Allocation Refunding Bonds in the next few months. Refunding the old bond issues will save taxpayer money throughout the life of the bonds and doesn’t extend the maturities of the bonds nor increase the amount funded. The rating upgrade will lower costs of borrowing and is a testament to the strengthening economic conditions and strong leadership and management of Atascadero. For the full S&P analysis, visit atascadero.org.

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

Man sentenced to 15 years to life for murder in the drunk-driving death of 14-year-old

EARNESTO NAVA HERRERA

Earnesto Nava Herrera, 27, has been sentenced to six years, eight months plus 15 years to life for murder, hit-and-run causing death, driving while under the influence of alcohol causing great bodily injury, and driving on a suspended license.

On Jan. 30, 2023, a San Luis Obispo County jury found Herrera guilty on all charged counts, which included second-degree murder, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated,

hit-and-run causing death, driving under the influence of alcohol causing great bodily injury, and driving on a suspended license.

Herrera also pleaded no contest to possession of child pornography that was discovered on his phone during the homicide investigation.

During the nearly three-week trial, jurors heard evidence that on the evening of March 27, 2021, Herrera, while driving heavily intoxicated, collided with 70 feet of metal pipe fencing and knocked over a tree.

He fled in his vehicle and entered Highway 101 using the Tefft Street off-ramp. While driving the wrong direction on the off-ramp, Herrera nearly collided with a vehicle that was exiting the freeway. The vehicle was able to swerve to avoid a head-on collision.

Herrera continued to accelerate northbound on 101 against traffic when he crashed into the victim’s vehicle head-on. The collision killed 14-yearold “J” and seriously injured two others in the victim’s vehicle.

Herrera fled on foot as his vehicle was disabled. About an hour after the deadly crash, California Highway Patrol located Herrera by using a helicopter with FLIR (forward facing infrared) technology. He was crawling near the freeway in an apparent attempt to avoid detection. Herrera had a blood alcohol level of .164, nearly 2½ hours after the deadly crash.

On Dec. 31, 2020, just three months before the fatal collision, Herrera was arrested for DUI and was read the following admonition: “Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or both, impairs your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Therefore, it is extremely dangerous to human life to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or both. If you continue to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or both, and as a result of that driving, someone is killed, you can be charged with murder.”

At the sentencing hearing, the 14-year old victim’s biological mother provided the following statement describing her son:

“My son … ‘J’ was an only child, a miracle boy, and he had many dreams and aspirations. He was a very ambitious 14-year-old, enjoyed soccer, and was an avid reader. He loved to travel and had been to Japan, Mexico, Costa Rica, and many states in the U.S., and he loved Disneyland. He was a pleasure to be around, and he was loved by many. He loved math, physics, and science. He was a 4.0 student and was enroute to be valedictorian of his class. He aspired to be an engineer and hoped someday to be a Nobel Prize winner. He loved sea otters, and he had a best friend, Oddy. He looked forward to Summer Christian Camp and spending time with his cousins. He also enjoyed summer school, math enrichment, and spending time with his friends. ‘J’ will be missed every day and remembered forever.”

“This is a terrible, yet completely avoidable tragedy,” said Assistant District Attorney Eric Dobroth. “As this incident so heartbreakingly illustrates, driving while impaired puts every life on the roadway in peril. We will aggressively prosecute drunk or drugged drivers in our community and will charge murder when appropriate. We are hopeful that completion of the criminal case will provide family and friends the space necessary to begin healing.”

Governor once again reverses parole board’s decision to parole convicted murderer Royce Casey

Three months after the District Attorney’s Office urged in writing, Gov. Gavin Newsom reversed the Board of Parole Hearings’ earlier decision to release Royce Casey, one of three who were convicted and sentenced to prison for the 1995 horrific murder of Arroyo Grande High School freshman Elyse Pahler. This is the second time the governor has reversed the board’s decision to parole Casey.

District Attorney Dan Dow announced today that he is very CONTINUED

ELEANOR R. CHASTEEN 1936-2024

Eleanor Raye Chasteen, 86, of Paso Robles, CA, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2024, at Danish Care Nursing Home.

Born May 15, 1936, in Dallas, Texas, to Billy W. and Lillian N. Williams.

Eleanor is survived by daughters Felecia Freer and Leilani Hanna, four grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

She was known as Aunt Raye Raye and Nanny. Raye was active in her church and loved to read her Bible, cook, quilt, knit, and crochet.

She worked in aerospace at both Hughes Aircraft and TRW, from which she retired.

NEWS BRIEFS

CONTINUED FROM A4

DOROTHY A. BENNETT 1939-2024

Dorothy Ann Bennett entered into eternal rest on March 7, 2024, after a wonderful 85 years of a beautiful life.

Dorothy was born in Hubbard, Nebraska, and grew up in South Sioux City, Nebraska. Her best friend, Rosemary, introduced her to her future husband, L Wesley Bennett, of Elk Point, South Dakota, on a blind date on St Patrick’s Day in 1952. Both couples married, best girlfriends marrying best guy friends. They were life-long friends.

Wes and Dorothy married on July 27, 1952. They had four children: Vivian,

pleased with Newsom’s decision to once again reverse the board’s Oct. 11, 2023, decision to grant Royce Elliott Casey parole. Casey was convicted in 1997 based on his plea to first-degree murder along with his two accomplices, 16-yearold Jacob Delashmutt and 15-year-old Joseph Fiorella.

Together, they brutally murdered 15-year-old Pahler in one of the most heinous pre-meditated murders committed in the history of San Luis Obispo County. The Governor’s Office sent a letter to the District Attorney’s Office  on March 11 notifying of the governor’s decision.

“I am grateful for and want to thank Gov. Newsom for carefully evaluating the facts and circumstances of Elyse M.

Annette, Paul, and Lynn.

Wes and Dorothy moved their family to Atascadero, CA, in 1963, where they became active members of Redeemer Lutheran Church. They enjoyed The Couples Club at Redeemer, where they made many friendships that would last through their lifetimes.

Dorothy had a few jobs, first as an Avon Lady and Lewis Ave schoolyard monitor before starting her career at the US Postal Service around 1970. She worked her way up quickly to mail carrier. She loved the people on her route but was very happy to retire in 2000 after 30 years of service.

Dorothy was very active in giving back to her community. She was pivotal in arranging infant care kits for Lutheran World Relief for the last 20-plus years. It made her happy and gave purpose for all the sweaters she knitted and pajamas that she collected from thrift stores and donations. She spent countless hours cooking and volunteering at ECHO, the local shelter, going so far as

Pahler’s horrific murder committed by Royce Casey and his two accomplices and reviewing Royce’s present day mental state. I am pleased with the governor’s conclusion that agreed with my office’s evaluation that Casey continues to pose an unreasonable danger to society if he were to be released from prison at this time,” Dow said.

On Dec. 19, 2023, Assistant District Attorney Eric J. Dobroth wrote a letter to Gov. Newsom urging him to use his authority to reverse the Board of Parole Hearings’ decision to allow Casey to be released on parole. In Assistant DA Dobroth’s letter, he argued that Casey remains a threat to public safety, as he “still has not developed insight into the grave character defects that allowed him to participate in such a hideous crime” and asked that the governor “consider established case law which holds that the

to give the socks off her feet to a man with none.

She was a founding member of Hope Lutheran Church, which she attended for the rest of her life and even hosted coffee hour the week before her death.

She attended every game and function she possibly could in her free time for her 11 grandchildren. She spent time traveling with her friend Janice. She was an active member of the Atascadero Senior Center, where you could often find her having lunch with friends on Thursdays as part of their lunch program. She spent countless hours with all her friends–getting coffee, shopping, watching plays, attending Cal Poly football games, enjoying her Sunday night football group and her weekly Sunday Brunch with her crew from church and close friend Linda.

She spent the last 52 years at her home in Paradise Valley on Cascabel Road. She loved the natural beauty of her home there. She hosted many family and friends who also loved spending time out

presence or absence of insight is a significant factor in determining whether there is a rational nexus between the inmate’s dangerous past behavior and the threat he currently poses to public safety.”

In Newsom’s letter concluding that Casey poses an unreasonable danger to society at this time and should not be released, Governor Newsom explained in part:

“Mr. Casey must better understand the internal processes that led him to commit the crime and hone the skills he will need to manage them beyond the controlled environment of prison. Mr. Casey will almost certainly encounter significant stressors while navigating his reentry into the community if he is allowed to parole, particularly given the stigma and notoriety of his case. I encourage him to continue to develop his parole plans, and in particular his relapse prevention plans

on her deck covered by a big beautiful oak.

Our mother never stopped. She lived her life until her very last hours to their absolute fullest.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Wes, a daughter, Vivian, and daughter, Annette. She is survived by Annette’s children, Denier, Darla, Dallas, and Nick; her son, Paul, his wife, Annette, and their children, Shannon, Rebecca, and Paul Jr.; her daughter, Lynn, her husband, Ron, and their children, Lowell, Austin, Leo, and Patrick; along with 17 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

May you all have lasting memories of who she was and how her compassion touched you, her community, and the world.

and the strength of his social supports, which will be critical to his success on parole. I have considered the evidence in the record that is relevant to whether Mr. Casey is currently dangerous. When considered as a whole, I find the evidence shows that he currently poses an unreasonable danger to society if released from prison at this time. Therefore, I reverse the decision to parole Mr. Casey.”

The San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office regularly appears with a Deputy District Attorney at the Board of Parole Hearings scheduled parole hearings to represent the interests of victims and the People of the State of California.  Dow is committed to ensuring that the impact of the crime on the victims/ survivors is not forgotten and is properly considered at every stage of the criminal proceeding, including post-sentencing matters such as parole hearings.

DEATHS

JAMES BALINT age 82 a resident of Cambria passed away on 03/14/2024

In the care of Blue Sky Cremation and Burial Service

ELIZABETH WIDDICOMBE, 91, of Avila Beach passed away on March 11th 2024.

Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

JESSIE SANSANO JAGONASE, 62, of Grover Beach passed away on March 9th 2024.

Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

DANIEL VICTOR JORDANA, 90, of Arroyo Grande passed away on March 15th 2024.

Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

SUE MARIE RAWLINGS, 76, of Pismo Beach passed away on March 8th 2024.

Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.

1. LITERATURE: What is the name of the kingdom in "The Princess Bride"?

2. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: In British royalty, what is King Charles' family name?

3. TELEVISION: Which TV sitcom features Sheldon's catchphrase "Bazinga!"?

4. U.S. STATES: Which U.S. state is home to the Awatovi Ruins, a national historic landmark?

5. HISTORY: According to a WWII government slogan, what sinks ships?

6. GEOGRAPHY: What is the name of the small principality that lies between Spain and France?

7. ANATOMY: Which part of the brain controls hunger?

8. LANGUAGE: The Latin word "caput" refers to what part of the human anatomy?

9. SCIENCE: Which color has the longest wavelength in the visible spectrum?

10. FOOD & DRINK: What is the primary alcohol used in margaritas?

© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

10. Tequila.

9. Red.

8. The head.

7. Hypothalamus.

6. Andorra.

5. Loose lips.

4. Arizona.

3. “The Big Bang Theory.”

2.

Mountbatten-Windsor.

1. Florin.

Answers

Jr. CEO Business Day to be held Sunday, March 24

58 students to participate in the annual program

ATASCADERO — The annual Jr. CEO program, coordinated by the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce, will conclude with Jr. CEO Business Day on Sunday, March 24. The event, showcasing Jr. CEO participants selling their products, will take place in The Plaza on El Camino Real across from Sunken Gardens in downtown Atascadero from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The community is invited to attend and support the small businesses.

The program provides a unique educational opportunity for elementary and junior high students by offering five virtual workshops focused on entrepreneurial skills. Sessions include fundamentals for setting up your business, cost models, safety and food preparation, marketing and customer service, and savings and money management.

“A favorite thing learned from the Jr. CEO Program, is how I can take my fun bead-making hobby and turn it a profitable business,” said 10-year-old Mila Gonzalez,

who calls her business Baha Beads. “Last year, by making beads with my sisters, we were able to take the whole family the California Mid-State Fair.”

“I am inspired by this program. It creates family unity and allows students to think beyond the classroom,” said Alexis Gonzales. “This program empowers our youth to think entrepreneurship. Thank you, Atascadero Chamber of Commerce, for making an impact in the lives our youth.”

Josh Cross, Chamber President/CEO, led each virtual workshop. Participants received an interactive workbook for each session.

“I can’t wait to see how these young entrepreneurs contribute their talents to our community,” Cross said. “The Chamber is thrilled to invest in tomorrow’s leaders today.”

The Junior CEO Program is sponsored by Better Business Bureau, Carmel and Naccasha, Central Coast Party Factory, Central Coast Moving Co., Gannage Design and Construction, Kiwanis International, Mountain Mike’s, Quilter’s Cupboard, RA Architects & Engineers, Rotary International, San Luis Obispo County Office of Education, and San Luis Obispo Credit Union.

Tyler Florence to kick off Masters of Fire tour at Paso Wine Fest

Local chefs to compete for Master of Fire title on Friday, May 17

PASO ROBLES — Renowned Celebrity Chef Tyler Florence is set to ignite the culinary scene at the Paso Wine Fest with the debut of his Masters of Fire Experience series. The event will take place on Friday, May 17, from 5 to 9 p.m., promising an unforgettable experience for food and wine enthusiasts.

The Masters of Fire Live Fire Barbecue Experience is a dedicated, standalone ticketed event in conjunction with the annual Paso Wine Fest weekend.

Highlights of the Masters of Fire event include a thrilling live-fire culinary competition, a barbecue feast prepared by Tyler Florence and competing chefs paired with Paso Robles wines, and a meet and greet autograph session with Tyler Florence in support of his new

cookbook, “American Grill.”

“We are honored that Tyler Florence has chosen Paso Wine Fest to launch the national tour of the Masters of Fire Live Fire Barbecue Experience,” said Joel Peterson, executive director of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance.

“We all know barbecue and wine are a perfect pairing, and with our own

unique barbecue style on the Central Coast, what better place for Chef Florence to kick off his American Grill book tour, but in Paso Robles Wine Country.”

The Masters of Fire Competition will showcase the talents of local chefs who will engage in head-to-head battles, vying for the esteemed local title of Master of Fire. The winner will

Paso Robles High School senior Kalani Gaviola receives Seymour Award

Only five seniors in all of California are recognized for this Scholarship Federation award

PASO ROBLES — Paso Robles High School (PRHS)

senior Kalani Gaviola received the Seymour Award from California Scholarship Federation (CSF). Only five seniors in all of California are recognized for this award, with almost every high school in California having a CSF program.

For this award, California is broken into five regions. Each region selects 10 finalists. Those finalists participate in a threehour interview, culminating with five winners selected throughout the state, one in each region. Gaviola represents the Central Coast region of California, from the San Jose area to Ventura.

According to CSF, the Seymour Award is regarded as one of the highest scholastic honors given to high school students in the state of California. The Seymour Memorial Awards were established to honor both Charles F. Seymour and his devoted wife, Marian H. Seymour, who together supplied the inspiration and leadership which fostered the California Scholarship Federation. The very first award of $25 was presented to Seymour Award recipient Elizabeth Murphy (O’Neil) of Fresno High School in 1936. The five winners in California now

receive a $5,000 scholarship.

For the past three years, Gaviola has been an active member of her Paso Robles CSF chapter, assisting with projects from riverbed cleanup days to club fairs and peer mentoring. However, her voice is most often heard through her school’s news magazine called Crimson, where she currently serves as the editorin-chief for the second year. Her leadership has assisted in Crimson being recognized as the third-best high school news magazine in the nation, and she earned the Journalist of the Year award at PRHS last year.

Also on campus, Gaviola has been the ASB staff and student director for the past two years; where her proudest accomplishment has been bringing to her school and leading, for the past three years, the Culture Expo, a time of laughter, food, learning and acceptance of all student groups. Other leadership roles include serving as president of the Superintendent’s Council, a member of Rotary International: Interact Club, serving as both president (2023) and vice president (2024).

She is also a proud member and vice chair of the Mayor’s Youth Commission, which was recently highlighted for their role in creating a teen center in Paso Robles. Gaviola also finds time to run in both cross country and track and field for the past four years. Kalani has already been accepted to the UC Berkeley, UC Davis, and UC Irvine honors programs, but is still awaiting

notification from UCLA, Yale, and Harvard before making her final college decision. She plans to major in either English or political science, with the eventual goal of becoming a lawyer.

“Kalani has demonstrated remarkable leadership skills, consistently planning and organizing events and effectively leading the team of students running these events,” Adviser Jenny Martinez said. “Her ability to not only come up with innovative ideas, but also execute them with precision and effectiveness is truly commendable. Kalani has shown exceptional organizational abilities, an innate talent for motivating her peers, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of our school community.”

not only receive bragging rights and a cash prize but will also earn the opportunity to compete in the National Masters of Fire Finals against champions from other festivals across the country. Attendees will indulge in a worldclass 18-hour smoked barbecue prepared by Florence and his acclaimed restaurant, Miller & Lux, recently named best steakhouse in San Francisco. Competing local chefs will also offer up samples of their delectable barbecue creations. This All-You-Can-Eat smoked barbecue is not complete without wine, which Paso Wine Fest has covered. Over 10 Paso Robles wineries will be showcasing their best-for-barbecue wines in this indulgent affair. Williams Sonoma is the official tour partner and will be present at the event, offering a meet and greet session with Florence where guests can get their copy of “American Grill” signed. Florence will also be at the Paso Wine Fest Grand Tasting on Saturday, May 18, to

promote his book.

Tickets for this gastronomic experience are priced at $250 per person and include an advance copy of Tyler’s latest book, “American Grill,” set for release later in May 2024. Tickets to the event are limited to 500 attendees, which is likely to sell out in advance. The competing chefs will be announced soon.

The Masters of Fire series is not confined to Paso Wine Fest; it is a traveling tour set to grace the top food and wine festivals nationwide from May 2024 to March 2025.

Chef Tyler Florence’s passion for culinary excellence and the art of livefire cooking promises an unparalleled experience for Paso Wine Fest attendees, making the Masters of Fire series a must-attend event for food and wine enthusiasts everywhere.

Tickets to the Masters of Fire Experience at Paso Wine Fest can be purchased at pasowine.ticketsauce. com/e/paso-wine-fest-2024/tickets.

Paso Robles REC Foundation & Recreation Services announce Concerts in the Park lineup Concerts begin in City Park on Thursday, June 13

PASO ROBLES — The Paso Robles

REC Foundation in partnership with Paso Robles Recreation Services, J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines, and Firestone Walker Brewing Company announced the 2024 summer Concerts in the Park series lineup. The concert season will kick off at 6 p.m. at City Park in Paso Robles on Thursday, June 13, and continue through Thursday, August 22.

This year, Paso Robles Recreation Services is offering multiple sponsorship tiers for the series. Sponsorships are available on a first-come, firstserved basis until sold out. Local businesses interested in sponsoring a summer concert may contact Wyatt Lund at (805) 237-3990 or via email at wlund@prcity.com.

“We’re so happy to bring back Concerts in the Park this year,” commented Lynda Plescia, Recreation Services Manager. “These family-friendly all ages weekly events offer something for everyone, and if you’ve attended in the past, you know how fun they are. We’ll see you there.”

The 2024 summer Concerts in the Park lineup will feature:

Thursday, June 13

JD Project (rock, country)

Thursday, June 20

Dulcie Taylor (rockin’ Americana roots)

Thursday, June 27

Monte Mills & the Lucky Horseshoe Band (country, rock ’n’ roll)

Thursday, July 11

Josh Rosenblum Band (pop, rock, soul)

Thursday, July 18

90’s Babiez (’90s R&B, pop)

Thursday, August 1

Earls of Tuesday (rock, soul, blues)

Thursday, August 8

Red Oak Country (’80s and ’90s country)

Thursday, August 15

Club Dv8 (’80s rock classics)

Thursday, August 22

Joy Bonner Band (rock, pop)

J. Lohr wine, Firestone beer, as well as water and soda will be available for purchase during the concerts. All net proceeds from beverage sales support the Paso Robles REC Foundation whose mission is to enhance parks and recreation opportunities in the city of Paso Robles. The pass-the-hat portion of the concerts supports the Recreation Services Scholarship Fund, creating greater access to recreational programs in Paso Robles.

Visit prcity.com/concertsinthepark or facebook. com/PRCityRecreation for concert updates.

New way to support the ALF Food

Creston, and California Valley, “ said ALF President Tim Eckles.

LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero

CONTACT

ATASCADERO — In conjunction with Amazon’s Wish List program, ALF Food Pantry now allows donors to send food and supplies directly to its warehouse. Donors click on ALF Wish List, add their selections to their carts, and click on ALF Food Pantry as the destination. USPS delivers the items directly to the Pantry.

Recently, ALF Food Pantry was named Community Organization of the Year by the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. Formerly known as Atascadero Loaves and Fishes, the nonprofit has been providing groceries free of charge for more than 30 years. Their humble beginnings took shape in the basement of a local church and is now located at 5411 El Camino Real in Atascadero.

They delivered almost 500,000 pounds of quality groceries to food-insecure residents of Atascadero, Templeton, Santa Margarita, Creston, and California Valley in 2023. The all-volunteer organization is celebrating 40 years of service throughout 2024. Demand for groceries has increased by over 32 percent in the past year, while food costs have risen by 12 percent.

“Support from the community is vital to our continuing our 40 years of service to Atascadero, Templeton, Santa Margarita,

“The groceries and supplies sent to ALF via this new program will significantly impact our operation. We encourage community members to use this quick, convenient method to help us feed food-insecure families in our community.”

In 2022, ALF Food Pantry made a significant impact by distributing over 250 tons of nutritious food, equivalent to 306,000 meals. ALF’s clients come from diverse backgrounds, including older adults living solely on social security, parents dealing with disabilities, parttime or contract workers, and individuals facing crises such as hospitalization, layoffs, homelessness, or reduced working hours. A striking statistic is that almost half of the recipients are children.

In 2024, ALF Food Pantry is poised to celebrate its 40th anniversary of providing groceries to community members who are food insecure. It’s worth noting that ALF is the largest all-volunteer organization in San Luis Obispo County. ALF Food Pantry operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and contributions to the cause are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

If you wish to donate, please use the QR code or send checks to 5411 El Camino Real, Atascadero. Donations are tax-deductible. If you would like to volunteer, visit alffoodpantry.org. Find the ALF Food Pantry Amazon’s Wish List here amazon.com/hz/ wishlist/ls/188BZONAJP9S9?ref_=wl_share

CONTACT INFO

1000 Spring Street Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3870 prcity.com

AWARENESS - PREVENTION - INTERVENTION - EDUCATION

About: The Atascadero Greyhound Foundation has been serving the Atascadero community for more than 20 years, gradually adding more events that serve its mission. We have grown, and continue to give because of the generous donors, sponsors and participants of our events. Our events are a benefit to the community in healthy activity — either athletically, musically, educationally, or in the fight against addiction.

Donations: Our support comes from generous donors and sponsors. To make a difference, visit: lighthouseatascadero.org

Friends of the Paso Robles Library

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Support the Library through a Friends of the Library membership, starting as low as $10/year. The Friends of the Library appreciates

CONTACT INFO

6875 Union Road Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3751 redwingshorse sanctuary.org

CONTACT INFO

1516 El Camino Real,  Atascadero, Ca 93422 805-466-3557 www.elks2733.org

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

For information about making donations, adoptions, etc, visit redwingshorsesanctuary.com. For upcoming events, visit facebook.com/pg/redwingshorses/events

RESCUE-REHABILITATE-REHOME-SANCTUARY

Since 1991, Redwings Horse Sanctuary has been faithfully working to eliminate the causes of equine suffering through rescuing abused, abandoned and neglected equines and providing selected adoptive homes or permanent sanctuary for those equines. Redwing’s mission also includes educational and community outreach.

Redwings is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, 10-3, and closed Sunday and Monday. Please note: tours of the ranch are available by appointment only. Please contact the office at: (805) 237-3751, info@redwingshorsesanctuary.org to schedule a tour, or to inquire about volunteer opportunities.

-WHERE HOPE RUNS FREE-

Atascadero Elks Lodge

and needy children, patriotic programs, veterans’ programs and many, many community activities. Our mission as Elks is to inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize our belief in God; to promote the welfare of our community; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; and to cultivate good fellowship. We have a full calendar of events and activities for our members. To learn more or to join us please contact us at 805-4663557, visit the Lodge at 1516 El Camino Real, follow-us on Facebook or visit our website at: www.elks2733.org.

Back in the Saddle Open Horse Show benefit for the SLO County 4-H Horse Project returns

Proceeds for event at Knudson Training Stables to be used to pay for 4-H shows, clinics, and awards

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — The

San Luis Obispo County 4-H youth development program’s countywide 4-H Horse Project is organizing the annual Back in the Saddle Open Horse Show as a fundraiser for the program. All breeds of horses and all riders are welcome to enter. Proceeds will directly pay for 4-H shows, clinics, and awards, with a goal of reducing or eliminating clinic and show fees for the members of 4-H horse projects in SLO County.

There will be western, ranch, and leadline classes offered, with a Champion buckle and Reserve ribbon awarded for each division, and fun prizes for leadline riders. The event will take place at Knudson Training Stables, at 3880 Union Road in Paso Robles. Community members are invited to enter the show, to come and watch, and to sponsor awards and prizes for the show to support the 4-H Horse Project in the county. Last year over 45 riders competed at Back in the Saddle and a larger turnout is expected this year.

The San Luis Obispo County 4-H program is fundraising to cover some of the show costs and to keep more resources for the Horse Project. Opportunities include sponsoring the championship buckle and ribbons for a Division, providing items to be given away as prizes in the Champagne Pleasure classes, or by making a donation. A big thanks to Ridgeway Riding Center for sponsoring the riding arena. Find the Back in the Saddle Sponsorship form here drive.google.com/file/d/1nMT-

nQjK_2ITRdTG459s-7I1KykhlQsyI/view

For more information, call or text (805)

674-5831, join their Facebook page Back in the Saddle Open Horse Show, send an email to slohorseproject@gmail.com, or check out the Back in the Saddle Information & Registration form here docs.google.com/ forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfnKgcipcKn1yEr4HpdIe9f3Pdb55ENeh69_lHFsLTGC9kHrA/ viewform

The San Luis Obispo 4-H County Horse Project holds horse shows and riding clinics each year that are open to all the 4-H horse project members in SLO County. Each clinic and horse show focuses on a different riding discipline: Western, English, and Gymkhana. The 4-H members have lots of opportunities to improve their horsemanship skills and decide which type of riding they enjoy most. Riders go on to compete in the local fair 4-H horse shows during the Santa Barbara County Fair and the California Mid-State Fair. The culmination of each 4-H year is the California State Classic 4-H Horse Show.

Salinas Valley Fair, celebrating 80th year, starts May 16

Country duo Maddie & Tae to perform Saturday, May 18

KING CITY — The Salinas Valley Fair will be celebrating the 80th annual Salinas Valley Fair May 16-19, at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds, 625 Division Street.

Maddie & Tae, an award-winning duo, is scheduled to perform at the Salinas Valley Fair on Saturday, May 18. Their unbreakable bond, honest songwriting, and “some of the tightest harmonies on Music Row” (Rolling Stone) are channeled into their new collection of songs, “Through The Madness Vol. 2,” out now.

“We are looking forward to offering a headlining entertainment piece to the Salinas Valley Fair,” said Lauren Hamilton, Salinas Valley Fair CEO. “The Fair enjoyed Dylan Scott in 2023, and we are thrilled to be offering the Maddie & Tae concert at our Stampede Arena for the Salinas Valley community this year.”

The Salinas Valley Fair Board is looking forward to Maddie & Tae’s high-energy and family-friendly performance to provide attendees of this year’s Fair.

Tickets to Maddie & Tae will be $40 for general seating and $75 for a front-stage ticket and are available for purchase online March 15 through May 17 — visit salinasvalleyfair.com for more information. Tickets will be available at the gates for $55 prior to the concert on May 18. Fair admission is not included in the purchase of a concert ticket. Admission to the Fair is $12 for adults (18+ years of age), $8 for seniors (60+ years of age), $8 for youth (6-17 years of age), and free for children (5 years of age or younger). Special days include: Kids’ Holiday Thursday, May 16, where all children 12 years of age and younger receive free admission; Senior Day Friday, May 17, where all adults 60 years of age and older

receive free admission; Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 18, which provides free admission to all military personnel, military contractors, and military dependents with military ID. Fair pre-sale tickets are $32 for four and $30 save-on carnival wristbands will be available for purchase at the Salinas Valley Fair Office now until Wednesday, May 15. Parking is available for $20.

Activities and community fun at the 2024 Salinas Valley Fair are set to begin Thursday, May 16, at 11 a.m. and continue through Sunday, May 19, at 10:30 p.m. In addition to Maddie & Tae, the Salinas Valley Fair will provide four days of family-friendly entertainment across the Fairgrounds, music on the Steinbeck Stage, as well as the Junior Livestock Auction — to be held Saturday, May 18, at 8 a.m. Fair food favorites, 21+ beverages, and dancing in the Long Branch Saloon are available daily.

The Salinas Valley Fair Board and CEO invite everyone from the communities of San Luis Obispo County up through San Benito County and beyond to make their way to King City for a great Salinas Valley Fair themed “Golden Hills & Fair Time Thrills.”

PERSPECTIVE

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

ATASCADERO GOSPEL CHAPEL

8205 Curbaril Ave. (corner of Curbaril & Atascadero Ave.): Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. Ted Mort, Pastor. (805) 466-0175. atascaderogospelchapel.org

Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living A New Thought Spiritual Community. Living the Consciously Awakened Life. Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue Sunday 10:00am at the Pavilion 9315 Pismo Way, Atascadero (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.org

St. William’s Catholic Church 6410 Santa Lucia Road, Atascadero, CA (805) 466-0849 www. stwilliams.org Weekday Masses : 10:30 AM Saturday Vigil Mass: 4:30 PM Sunday Masses: 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM Spanish

FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH

9925 Morro Road, Atascadero; "The Church on the Hill"; An independent church committed to the teaching of God's Word.; Praise and Prayer–10 a.m.; Morning Worship–11 a.m.; Evening Worship–6 p.m.; Wednesday Prayer–6:30 p.m.; Nursery care and children's classes provided.; Pastor Jorge Guerrero; (805) 461-9197.

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH

535 Creston Road., Paso Robles ; (805) 238-3549 ; Dr. Gary M. Barker, Pastor; Goal of church: To teach Believers to love God and people.; Sundays: 9 a.m. Sunday School; 10 a.m. Fellowship; 10:30 a.m. Service; 6 p.m. Eve Service; Wednesdays: 7 p.m. prayer meeting.

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH ELCA

A place of hope! Join us for in-person worship on Sundays at 9 A.M. Services are also streamed on our YouTube channel, Hope Lutheran Church Atascadero. We offer Sunday School for all ages after worship. Learn more at ourhopelutheran.net. 8005 San Gabriel Road, Atascadero. 805.461.0430. office@ourhopelutheran.org.

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER-LCMS

4500 El Camino Real, Atascadero; 466-9350; Morning Bible class at 9 a.m. Sunday; Coffee and Sunday Worship with Holy Communion at 10 a.m. Sunday; Thursday morning Bible class 10 a.m. followed by refreshments and fellowship; Developmentally disabled Bible class 1st and 3rd Saturday mornings; redeemeratascadero.org; redeemeratascadero@gmail.com; Pastor Wayne Riddering.

PLYMOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UCC

We honor ancient scriptures, responding to God’s contemporary call to be just and kind.; Join us for Worship Sunday, 10 a.m.; Church School Sunday, 10:15 a.m.; Coffee Fellowship 11 a.m.; Men’s Bible Study, Wednesday, 8 a.m.; Women’s Bible Study, Friday, 10 a.m.; Youth Group; 1301 Oak St., Paso Robles; (805) 238-3321.

ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH

820 Creston Road., Paso Robles; (805) 238-2218- Parish Office open Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; website: www.saintrosechurch.org; Mass times;Daily Mass- 12:00 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.; Tues. 7 p.m. Spanish; Saturday 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Spanish Vigil Mass; Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass at 12:30PM. Father Rudolfo Contreras.

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH

940 Creston Road, Paso Robles; has Sunday worship services at 9:30 a.m; For more information, call the church at (805) 238-3702. Ext. 206.

ATASCADERO FOURSQUARE

CHURCH–FATHER’S HOUSE

2100 Ramona Road. Sunday service at 10am. Will & Lori Barrow, Pastors; (805) 466-3191; fathershouseafc.com

ABIDE CALVARY ATASCADERO

4500 El Camino Ave (Downstairs, Rear Parking Lot) // info@ abideatascadero.org. Sunday Service at 9am, Children’s Ministry provided for ages 2yrs–6th grade. Pastors Chris Vanoli & Ben Eisenman // Love God, Love Others // Abiding closely with Jesus and teaching others to do the same.

THE REVIVAL CENTER

A division of Alpha Beth Ministries; 3850 Ramada Drive (corner of Ramada and Cow Meadow), Paso Robles; 805-434-5170; Pastor Gabe Abdelaziz; a charismatic non-denominational fellowship; Reaching People, Building Homes; Sundays 10am, Wednesday 7pm; alphabeth@tcsn.net, www.alphabeth.org; Instagram @the_ revival_center

Here’s another reminder of the P.E.O. Atascadero Scholarships for Women Fundraiser at Mountain Mike’s Pizza, 9006 W. Front Road, Atascadero. There are three days left: March 21, 22, and 23. Just mention P.E.O. when you order and 30 percent of proceeds will go toward local, state, and national scholarships for women.

Whether you stop in for lunch or dinner at Mountain Mike’s on those days, you will be helping to raise funds for the scholarships. The restaurant ti open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Have questions?

Contact Ann Little at (805) 466-3119.

I’ve been writing columns like this one for years and collecting cookbooks for even

lee pitts COLUMNIST

There should be a law against people who smell bad. And this is coming from a guy who, on many occasions, was smellier than Taco Bell on a bad bean day. This law of mine would be directly aimed out those foreign exchange students (from France, I think) who could walk into a Dollar Store and whose body odor would drown out the smell of all the merchandise.

If I asked you what you thought most Americans preferred, a bath or a shower, what would you say? In a recent poll of Americans, 57 percent of the people chose the smart answer, which is shower, while 32 percent preferred to sit in their own filth and take a bath. By my count, that leaves 11 percent, and I assume these are the exchange students from France and Russia who take neither. Yakov Smirnoff, the Russian comedian, once said, “I like American women.

IBe included in the Atascadero News & Paso Robles Press Worship Directory for an entire year at $175

Traveling recipes

longer. I’ve always felt that recipes are meant to be shared and are always open to being “tweaked.” In fact, some cooks just have to “make it their own” by substituting, adding to, or subtracting from the original recipe. But, at some time, we know that the recipe was created by someone and then shared with others who liked it.

I found this next piece in one of my cookbooks and saved it for years because it seemed to say what I felt. Maybe it will be the same for you.

Recipe Travelers

The best recipes are travelers. They are created and served to family and friends who love them so much that they request the recipe. The recipe then begins to travel. Sometimes prepared as given, sometimes changed as needed or wanted, but it travels on. Do you insist on sharing the story of how and when the recipe came to you? Most of us do. We suppose we often bore family and friends with the history because we love it.

But, often, a name on a recipe simply indicates whom the recipe last visited. Do they even know where the recipe came from? Then too, have you been asked how many times they need to serve “your” recipe before it may be known as “theirs?” Hmm ... probably depends on who is asking ...

Speaking of traveling, the recipes this week are from a cookbook published in 2001, titled “More Food for Thought, A Collection of Recipes by Diegueňo Country School, Rancho Santa Fe, California.”

Now that Spring is officially launched and Easter is just days away, I think you’ll enjoy this cake recipe.

Carrot-Coconut-Almond

Cake Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup sugar 1 cup oil

• 2 eggs

• 1 cup finely grated carrots

Law and odor

They do things sexually Russian girls would never think of doing ... like showering.”

I admit that my preference for showers is a direct result of being being third in line through the bathwater. First was my dad, second was the “exalted one” my older brother, and then there was me. You’ve heard the phrase “don’t throw the baby out with the bath water?” Well, I was that baby and you might not have seen me through all the murky water.

Another phrase you’ve probably heard is “rural cleansing.” This is what happened every Saturday night in farm and ranch houses across the country. My Grandpa told me that every farm had a big old tub which was filled with hot water on Saturday night. The first one through was the father followed by the sons in descending order of age. No wonder if you were the 11th son that your nickname at school was “Stinky.” But these were the lucky folks. Before that most people got married in June because they were still smelling pretty good following their annual bath in May. But even in June the betrothed were both pretty ripe so the bride carried flow-

ers to mask the smell and this is where that custom got its start, much to the pleasure of flower shop owners.

Did you know that the White House didn’t have a permanently installed bathtub until 1850? This meant that all the presidents before Millard Fillmore smelled like they just cleaned out the hog barn. One wonders, how did they ever get re-elected?

It wasn’t that long ago that American farm boys were sewed into their long johns in November and didn’t take them off until March! Later generations, of course, took a bath every Saturday whether they needed it or not.

I often wonder what our soldiers did in World War II when they were fighting for the freedom to be filthy. How did they get clean in the trenches and in the tanks? All I know is the famous writer Ernie Pyle said that if you go long enough without a bath even the fleas will leave you alone. And what did the cowboys who drove the great herds up from Texas in the 1880s do for a bath? Some of them couldn’t even find enough water to drink let alone take a bubble bath.

At a total loss

responded to his fear: he turned his attention to seek the Lord.

2 Chronicles 20:3

n 2 Chronicles 20 the kingdom of Judah became under preliminary attack by some of their enemies: the sons of Moab, sons of Ammon, and some of the Meunites. Some subjects ran to their king, King Jehoshaphat, to tell them the horrible news of the impending doom. Jehoshaphat became afraid, and I don’t blame him. There’s a whole sermon in this chapter that I will have to give some time at my church (The Revival Center, 3850 Ramada Drive, Paso Robles), so I won’t expand on all that now. But this is what I want to focus on now — I love how King Jehoshaphat

I’m a big advocate in being honest and raw with our Creator. The king didn’t deny his fear and anxiety, but what he did do is take his focus off of himself and his feelings and turned to his God and Creator in desperation. The Bible tells us in multiple places that if we seek the Lord, we will find Him. He will meet us. He isn’t hiding. We just fill our lives with so much that He gets lost in the shuffle. We put so much in front of our eyes and ears and in our minds, we blur Him out of the picture. We need to clear away the clutter and find Him again. We left him somewhere; He didn’t leave us. Psalm 34:10 is one of my favorite verses in all the Bible. “They who seek the Lord, shall not be in want of any good thing.” WHAT?! This is a promise; albeit conditional!

• 1/2 cup chopped almonds

1/2 cup raisins

2 2/3 cup Angel Flake coconut

1 can cream cheese

frosting

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 9-inch bundt pan. Mix flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon. Beat sugar and oil at medium speed of electric mixer until well mixed. Stir in four mixture. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in carrots, nuts, raisins and 2/3 cup of the coconut. Pour into greased and floured 9-inch bundt pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until cake tester comes out clean. Cool in pan 15 minutes. Remove from pan and finish cooling on rack. Frost with cream cheese frosting and cover with remaining coconut.

Have a lovely weekend.

Cheers!

Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at bbutz1@outlook.com

Personally, the longest I’ve ever gone without a bath or a shower was seven days and that’s because I was in a coma and I didn’t do all that much hard, sweaty work while comatose so I’m sure I didn’t stink much. But taking me home from the hospital in the car my wife wore my 3M mask with replaceable cartridges that firemen wear to breathe cleaner air.

I’ve never resided in areas with high humidity and I don’t know how people do it who live in places like Florida or Washington, D.C. In the South I always felt dirtier by the time I got out of the shower than I did before I got in. It was so disgusting seeing all the men and women sweating through their armpits. (No relation).

I remember being in a big-city eastern restroom that had the first deodorant dispenser I ever saw. I’ve always been an Old Spice guy and I could use a swipe or two and the dispenser supposedly had some so I put in my money only to discover that the machine was “out of odor.”

Lee Pitts is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at leepitts@leepittsbooks.com.

We have the answer to many of our problems and issues! It would behoove us to seek the Lord, for multiple reasons.

How do we seek the Lord though? The #1 way — we get into His Word. The Bible. A poignant acronym that was made for the Bible is Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. I love it. It’s truly what it is. It’s literally God’s words to us. A love letter, if you will. His autobiography. Get to know His Word, you get to know Him. We seek Him in prayer. Talking to God. A conversation. A conversation that goes both ways. You can’t just talk at Him, you have to listen, as well. Jehoshaphat sought after the Lord fervently. In verses 5-12 of 2 Chronicles 20 he prays this amazing prayer. His ending words blow me away: “We are powerless before this great multitude who are coming against us; and we don’t even know what to do,

but our eyes are on You.” He’s at a total loss. There is no earthly way that the little kingdom of Judah is going to take on all these enemies at once. It’s way too big of a feat. Jehoshaphat doesn’t try to come up with a solution. But he turns his eyes to the One who can. He knows his only chance is to rely on the One who can handle this and deliver them. And you know what? God does! Because the kingdom turned to the Lord, sought the Lord, admitted their desperation that they are helpless, the Lord swooped in and did something miraculous! Read for yourself the rest of the story in 2 Chronicles 20. Even in desperation, make it a practice to not make going to the Lord the last resort, but the first line of defense.

Sarah-Kate Duran is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at alphabeth@tcsn.net

barbie butz COLUMNIST

sarah-kate

Atascadero Little League builds new dugouts with help of community

The dugouts premiered at the Little League opening ceremonies on March 9

By CHRISTIANNA MARKS

ATASCADERO—The Atascadero Little League premiered its brand new dugouts at the annual Little League Opening Day Ceremony on Saturday, March 9, at Paloma Creek Park. The donors, contributors, and volunteers who helped bring the much-needed updated dugouts to the Atascadero baseball community were honored at the ceremony.

“Last summer, I said, ‘Let’s see if we can make this work.’ So I started talking with the rest of our board members and saying, ‘Hey, we’ve seen what other leagues’ dugouts look like. I think we should have the same thing. We have a great league, let’s see what we can do,’” said Anton Kaul, president of Atascadero Little League.

Kaul said that the idea for new dugouts started bubbling around in his head a couple of years ago and that, as far as he knows, the small chain link dugouts hadn’t been upgraded since the early 1990s and that now seemed like a good time for an upgrade.

“Immediately, people jumped in,” Kaul said. “So, we got an architect to donate his time to create the plans. We got Roatary to donate funds. We got local builders to do the construction or at least parts of the construction. And then volunteers to chip in also. It came together, and it’s really heartwarming. It’s fun to see a whole community come together and make it a reality.”

Not only were funds donated by the Rotary Club and City Councilmember Charles Bourbeau, but many other members of the community donated time, labor, and materials to make the new dugouts a reality. David Main helped from an architectural perspective, Cal Coast Construction did the framing, Jeff Miller Concrete and Peterson U-Cart donated the concrete, the demolition of the old dugouts and roofing was donated by MBDC, with paint donated by DHR Painting, and all lumber provided by Weyrick Lumber. On top of that, baseball and Little League lovers volunteered with labor throughout the construction process.

“The companies were willing to donate and combine that with the labor costs. I don’t have the actual figures, but it’s just sort of awe-inspiring that people are willing to do that,” Kaul said. “I’m sort of sheepish when it comes to asking for donations. I’m not very good at that. But

when people heard about it, even though I said we’ll pay you, they said no, we’re happy to do this for Little League. I didn’t realize how much goodwill there really is towards Little League as an organization and how willing people are.”

The City of Atascadero was also involved in the process, as the new dugouts are on city land.

Kaul worked closely with Public Works Director Nick DeBar to make sure that Atascadero Little League followed city building codes in their build and that everything was above board.

“He helped us streamline the approval process,” said Kaul of DeBar’s help.

It’s roughly estimated that the complete project, including labor would have cost Atascadero Little League close to $40,000, but with the community stepping in in such a big way, less than $5,000 came out of the group’s pockets.

Kaul also added that local lawyer Daniel Knight also donated funds for the dugouts, supports local sports organizations, and has always been a supporter of Little League. Knight was one

Boys

of the people who made sure the project came together and kept everyone on task.

“Every day, different people were involved. It’s been a fun project that just came together in exactly the way I was hoping,” added Kaul. “It’s about getting baseball for the kids and making sure that every kid has the opportunity to play baseball and to have top-notch facilities when we can. So, it’s a big step forward.”

To find out more about Atascadero Little League, go to atascaderolittleleague.com.

Braydon Hoier fired a 5-inning shutout against the Templeton Eagles to open up the league and garner the Bearcats’ third victory of the year. The last two games Hoier has pitched, he has only given up one run while striking out eight and walking two.

We are thrilled to announce our annual Easter Coloring Contest! This year, we’re offering three categories for judging: 1-3 years old, 4-6 years old, and 7-16 years old. Winners of each category will receive a $10 gift certificate to Huckleberry’s, and we will also have one honorable

mention who will receive a $10 gift card as well!

Entering is easy: simply pick your coloring choice from above, or online, via the QR code. Once you’ve colored your page, take a photo and email it in with your child’s name, age, city, and parent contact information. This way, we can reach out to the winners and send them their prizes. We can’t wait to see all the amazing artwork from all your kiddos!

Entries are now extended to March 25

Email your entries to editor@13stars.media

Winners announced & published on March 28!