Construction is moving forward on the Del Rio Road Commercial Area, a long-anticipated development designed to bring new businesses, jobs, and services to the community. With five buildings currently under construction out of a total of 10 planned, city officials say the project is on track and already attracting notable tenants.
The development includes a mix of retail, office, and light industrial spaces, as well as potential housing. Currently under construction are five buildings: a 32,000-square-foot space for Valley Fresh Market, a 9,000-square-foot retail building, two three-story buildings sized at 10,000 and 8,600 square feet for office and mixed-use, and a 4,500-square-foot retail structure.
Two major tenants — Valley Fresh Market and Central Coast Distillery — are confirmed to open in early summer, with doors expected to open in June and July.
“This location has been planned for commercial development for
Empty Bowls fills hearts and plates in support of ECHO in Paso Robles
tion), the annual event raised crucial funds and awareness for individuals and families working toward stable housing.
By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@pasoroblespress.com
NORTH COUNTY — One of North County’s most cherished community events, Empty Bowls, returned to Paso Robles on Thursday, April 24, at Studios on the Park, uniting food lovers, artists, and advocates in support of local homelessness services.
Hosted by ECHO (El Camino Homeless Organiza-
ECHO has been hosting its Empty Bowls fundraiser for 10 years in Atascadero; this was the third year a second Empty Bowls event was held in Paso Robles at Studios on the Park located on Pine Street. The event featured savory soup tastings, wine pairings, charcuterie boards, desserts, and live entertainment, all set among local artwork. Guests took home a one-of-akind artisan bowl, a special tradition for the fundraiser. According to ECHO President and CEO Wendy Lewis, the event exceeded expectations.
By HAYLEY MATTSON Publisher, Editor-in-Chief
NORTHCOUNTY — It’s been a
decade since Farron Elizabeth Walker opened the doors of her boutique in the heart of Atascadero, and what a journey it’s been. Celebrating her 10th anniversary, Farron reflects on the immense support from the community that has been the backbone of her success. The anniversary open house last Friday was a heartfelt celebration not just of her store, but of the loyal customers, friends, and partners who have helped her build a thriving business.
“I didn’t really know what to expect, especially with the construction happening around us,” Farron admits. “But the turnout was amazing. It wasn’t about celebrating me; it was about celebrating the community. They’re the reason I’ve been able to stay in business this long.” Her openness and gratitude toward the people who have supported her over the years are palpable.
“We started bringing Empty Bowls to Paso [Robles] three years ago to help fundraise and provide funds to support Echo Paso Robles but also to get the community up here involved as we established our facility here and are doing work here. And it’s been an amazing event,” she said. “There are about 150 people here and just laughter and joy.”
Funds raised at Empty Bowls supported ECHO’s operations in Atascadero and Paso Robles, funding housing services, meals, job readiness training, and the organization’s impactful 90-day shelter program. In 2024, ECHO recorded its most successful year to
By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@pasoroblespress.com
NORTH COUNTY — More than 80 wineries, businesses, and hundreds of pet lovers came together April 26–27 to celebrate the return of Wine 4 Paws, a beloved tradition that pairs wine tasting with fundraising to support the life-saving work of Woods Humane Society.
Now in its 16th year, Wine 4 Paws transformed San Luis Obispo County’s wine country into a hub of community giving and four-legged fun. The weekend offered wine enthusiasts and animal advocates the chance to sip, shop, and socialize — all while raising critical funds for homeless pets.
CEO of Woods Humane Society Emily L’Heureux
Farron Elizabeth Walker is shown during the 10th anniversary open house for Walker’s boutique, Farron Elizabeth. Photo by Hayley Mattson/PRP
Wine 4 Paws organizer Sarah Tomasetti (left) and Hayseed and Housdon owner
Hayseed and Housdon. Photo courtesy of Wine
Paws For the third year, an Empty Bowls event was held at Studios in the Park in Paso Robles on April 24,
Photo by Camille DeVaul/PRP
EMPTY BOWLS
date, helping 256 people secure permanent housing and assisting 97 more through prevention programs.
“This year we’re out facing that already. We’re at 156 and that’s 156 lives that have been positively changed,” Lewis added. “We not only suit individuals but we also serve a lot of families with children and a lot of seniors. And so you’re really helping a variety of people that are at that point where they’re taking steps forward, steps in order to have that full be housing. And that’s what our goal is for everybody we serve.”
Part owner of General Store Paso Robles and ECHO board member Joeli Yaguda first became involved with ECHO by sponsoring and serving meals with Paso Cares before ECHO was available in Paso Robles.
FROM A1 FARRON
“We’re [General Store Paso Robles is] grateful
FROM A1
When Farron first opened her store, she didn’t know anyone in Atascadero. Having moved from Los Angeles, she was a newcomer to the area, but her decision to open her business here was driven by a deep sense of community and connection. What she didn’t expect was the incredible bond she would forge with customers who would go on to become like family. One such customer is Carrie, who recalls shopping at the store for the past decade and witnessing Farron’s growth firsthand.
“She’s amazing — truly,” Carrie says. “This shop has always had fresh energy, and Farron has made it a welcoming place for everyone. I’ve known her since the beginning, and it’s been wonderful to see how her store has taken off.”
A key part of Farron’s vision
WINE 4 PAWS
FROM A1
to be a sponsor because for a small business like ours to be able to participate in something as amazing as what ECHO’s doing, even as small as we are, it’s a dream for my business partners and I, Jillian [Waters] and Erin [Stuck], because our community is so beautifully involved in things like this and always shows up,” said Yaguda.
Yaguda also encouraged others to participate in whatever way they could. “There are ways for people to get involved just in whatever way they can and when you do that you see what ECHO brings to the community,” she said.
Paso Robles City Councilman Steve Gregory has supported ECHO for years and praised its grassroots impact.
“[Empty Bowls] brings everybody out, all walks of life to the event, and it really represents nicely what they [ECHO] do,” Gregory said. “I like the friendliness of the event and the people, the artists making the bowls, and the different restaurants making the food. It’s just a nice way to
from the beginning was to create a space where multi-generational families could shop together. She wanted her store to be a place where mothers, daughters, and even grandmothers could find something they loved. Over the years, she’s seen her vision come to life, with young girls who once shopped in the store now grown into adults who model for her. In addition to her curated clothing lines, Farron has always sought to support local artists and businesses. It’s something that developed organically as she spent more time in the community. “I came from a place where there was a disconnect, but in Atascadero, I found a true sense of community,” Farron says. “I wanted my store to reflect that. I started bringing in local goods and supporting local nonprofits. It became an important part of the business and just as important to the people who shop here.”
emphasized the impact of the event.
“Every year it makes all of the difference for us. As a private nonprofit that receives no tax funds, we exist solely based on donations, events, and fees for services,” she said. “To see an entire industry, the wine industry and then our beautiful community come together for one cause is heartwarming. And it makes all of the world of difference. It’squite literally providing life-saving impact.”
The festivities officially kicked off Friday evening, April 25, with a soldout launch party at Cal Coast Beer, hosted by Hayseed and Housdon Winery. The event featured live music from the Mark Adams Band, food, beer, and wine, and drew over 150
ROAD
FROM A1
Farron’s involvement in the community extends beyond her store. She’s actively engaged with various local charities and events. “I’ve worked with Cammie [Velci’s] foundation [Aloha Project], and I’ve been involved with Jack’s Helping Hand for several years,” she shares. “During COVID, when supply chains were disrupted, I saw the importance of supporting local businesses even more. That’s when I decided to dedicate a section of my store to local goods — things made right here on the Central Coast.”
The back section of Farron’s store features handmade knives from Albert Curtis, local olive oil from Templeton, artisanal caramels from Queen Bee, and much more. “I want this to be a place where you can find a gift that feels special — whether it’s jewelry, candles, or a bottle of locally sourced olive oil,” she says. Despite the challenges over
attendees. Organizers credited Martha and Rich Clayton of Cal Coast Beer for generously donating the Patina Room for the evening, helping to ensure the success of the fundraiser.
Throughout the weekend, visitors could explore a tasting map featuring more than 80 participating wineries, each donating a portion of proceeds to Woods Humane Society. From the coast to Paso Robles, events offered something for everyone: from a Sip & Shop at Bijou on the Park and dog-friendly movie nights to Super Saturday at Paso Market Walk and a Pet Cupcake Decorating Contest at Hoyt Family Vineyards.
Additional activities included Brunch & Bingo, “paint your pet” art sessions, book signings, and special treats for pets and people alike. The
many years as part of the Del Rio Road Commercial area specific plan,” said Community Development Director for the City of Atascadero Phil Dunsmore. “The city is trying to focus commercial development that will produce jobs, services for the community, and even housing within close proximity to Del Rio Road, El Camino Real, and Highway 101.”
The 11.1-acre project site is mostly within the boundaries of the Del Rio Road Commercial Area Specific Plan, adopted in 2012 and amended in 2020. The amendment followed the formal withdrawal of Walmart’s permits, prompting the city to
celebrate what they’re doing, and they’re made.”
Gregory emphasized the nonprofit’s financial responsibility. “My favorite part is they’re raising over 50% of their own money to pay for their costs,” said Gregory. “We couldn’t take care of the homeless without them.”
He also credited ECHO for inspiring local policy changes, like hiring the city’s new Homeless Services Manager. “What we’re doing with the idea behind that is twofold,” Gregory said. “One of the things I asked for is that this person is boots on the ground. And the other thing we’d like to do is bring Atascadero into the fold, into the mix and maybe have them help pay for part of this person’s salary. I don’t know if that’ll ever happen, but it is a regional issue. Since you already have ECHO in Atascadero, I think it’s a good idea. But for the most part, she’s going to have her hands full.”
Lewis echoed that sentiment, sharing that the collaboration with the City of Paso Robles
the years — construction, road closures, and the ever-present ups and downs of business — Farron’s commitment to her customers has remained unwavering. She continues to show up, even during tough times.
Reflecting on her journey, Farron acknowledges the valuable lessons she’s gained along the way. “Planning ahead is essential,” she shares. “During COVID, we couldn’t get products in, and that taught me how important it is to have financial stability and be prepared for tough times. Consistency is key — you have to show up, even when it feels like everything is working against you.”
“She’s one of the hardest-working women I know — completely committed to the community,” Velci says. “From the moment I met her, she’s been non-stop. Whether she’s
inclusive lineup ensured that even non-wine drinkers had a reason to participate and support the cause.
L’Heureux said that this year’s weekend presented more events and offerings from a wider variety of businesses.
“It was a well-rounded experience,” said L’Heureux. “There was something for everybody.”
According to L’Heureux, the fundraiser comes at a critical time of year, aligning with the peak of puppy and kitten season when the need for shelter, veterinary care, and adoption services rises sharply. With an annual operating budget of roughly $4.5 million, Woods Humane Society cares for approximately 3,000 animals each year at their two shelter locations in San Luis Obispo County.
“A mega fundraising weekend
revise traffic mitigation requirements and modify the list of allowed land uses. High-traffic operations such as fuel stations and drive-thrus were eliminated in favor of uses more compatible with community needs and environmental goals.
“There are several other large commercial and mixed-use developments that are planned for this general location, including a large mixed-use project west of 101, known as Barrel Creek, and a large RV lodging and tourism site at the corner of Del Rio and El Camino known as Del Rio Ranch,” said Dunsmore.
The current plan calls for a total of 32,400 square feet for the grocery anchor, 31,700 square feet of additional retail and commercial uses, 18,600 square feet of light-industrial space, and 31,500 square feet
Paso
had strengthened through meetings and tours with new city staff. “I do think it’s going to strengthen that partnership where we are going to be able to maybe leverage each other’s knowledge and help maybe bring more funds, grants, things that can support program and maybe additional programs,” she said. Thanks to support from local restaurants, businesses, and sponsors — including Just Baked, The Backyard, Justin Winery, and Wild Fields Brewhouse — the event proved to be a joyful success. Volunteers, artists, and guests contributed to an atmosphere of generosity and unity. In the end, Empty Bowls offered more than just warm soup and beautiful art. It served as a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together to lift one another up — one bowl at a time.
To learn more about ECHO, donate, or explore volunteer opportunities, visit echoshelter.org
organizing the fashion show or supporting the foundation [Aloha Project], she gives her all. It’s hard to even catch up with her for a drink because she’s always working! But that’s what I admire about her. Farron is a great role model and a wonderful friend. We’ve known each other for years, and now working together — it’s really special. She’s humble but always shows up and gives back in big ways. And her son? He’s growing up fast — he’s such a big guy now!”
One of Farron’s proudest milestones was the opening of Bloke, her second store, which she later sold to her sister. “Opening a second store was huge for me,” she says. “Now my sister is running it, which makes it even more special. I’m really proud.”
Through it all, Farron has remained committed to the belief that community and consistency are the pillars of any successful business. Watch-
like White for Paws truly makes a difference,” said L’Heureux. “We’re always going to step up and step out for anybody or any animal it needs.”
The event was started 16 years ago by Sarah Tomasetti, who has led the event since its founding and helped raise over $1 million for the shelter over the years.
Arianne of “Arianne & Fosters” on Instagram, has been fostering and volunteering for Woods for years.
She told Paso Robles Press/ Atascadero News , “This is my 2nd year bringing a Woods foster dog to enjoy Wine 4 Paws weekend. This year I brought my foster puppy Chardonnay, who was named specifically in celebration for this weekend. Chardonnay and I had the best time visiting Ella’s Vineyard and Absolu-
of office space. The upper floors of the office buildings may be developed as residential units, potentially adding up to 82 housing units depending on future permit applications.
The northern portion of the project is envisioned as a business park focused on office and light industrial uses. While the northernmost parcel lies just outside the specific plan boundary, it is zoned for commercial retail and integrated into the overall site design. Shared parking, access, and drainage systems are planned to ensure the development functions as a cohesive center.
The Del Rio project is part of a broader wave of development in the area. Nearby large-scale projects include Barrel Creek, a major mixed-use development west of Highway 101, and Del Rio Ranch, a
Robles Press
ing Atascadero evolve with the influx of new businesses and life into the downtown area, she finds it deeply rewarding to see her own business play a part in that transformation.
Reflecting on her 10-year anniversary, Farron is filled with gratitude. “When I opened, there was nothing on Entrada. Now, the street is bustling with life, and it feels so satisfying to be part of that growth,” she says. “I’ve seen so much happen, both in my business and in the community, and it’s been an amazing journey. I couldn’t have done it without the support of everyone around me.”
As she looks toward the next decade, Farron is excited for the future and committed to continuing her work in the community. “It’s been a wild ride, and I’m so grateful for all the relationships I’ve built along the way,” she says. “Here’s to the next 10 years!”
tion Cellars and chatting with other patrons about the ongoing pet overpopulation crisis and the importance of fostering to save lives.”
Woods Humane Society will continue to honor its mission with upcoming events, including its annual Pet Gala, scheduled for June 21. The gala will recognize the organization’s 70-year history and recommitment to animal welfare on the Central Coast.
“Here in 2025, we’re just committing to another 70 years of helping homeless pets in SLO County,” said L’Heureux.
For more information on how to support Woods Humane Society or to make a donation, visit woodshumanesociety.org
For more information on Wine 4 Paws, visit wine4paws.com
tourism and RV lodging site planned for the corner of Del Rio and El Camino Real.
“Combined, these projects will have a significant contribution to the local economy while providing housing, jobs and tax revenue. The land uses planned for these areas include retail, office, light industrial, restaurants, lodging, and residential,” Dunsmore added.
Although early progress was delayed by about a year due to weather conditions, city officials confirm that construction is now moving steadily ahead. There have been no significant changes or setbacks to the project since work began.
For more information on the Del Rio Marketplace, visit atascadero.org/project/ del-rio-marketplace
PASO ROBLES
Paso Robles celebrates Bike to Work Day with prizes and breakfast burritos
Join the City of Paso Robles on Tuesday, May 13, for Bike to Work Day, a national event promoting bicycle commuting as a healthy alternative to driving. From 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the North County Farmers Market (11th and Spring streets), enjoy bike inspections by KMan Cyclery, fun prizes, and free breakfast burritos for the first 20 cyclists — just bring your bike and helmet!
Paso Robles Fire Department to conduct wildland training exercise May 2
Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services will conduct a Wildland EMT/Paramedic training on Friday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Montebello Oaks open space area. The exercise will include fire personnel, apparatus, and Mercy 34, the local emergency air ambulance, landing on site. Training activities include land navigation, mapping, radio procedures, and medical scenarios.
Residents are encouraged to remain aware of increased activity in the area and to prepare for fire season by reviewing the Ready, Set, Go! Wildfire Preparedness Program at readyforwildfire.org/preparefor-wildfire
Paso Robles to temporarily close Veterans Park Trail for repairs April 29–May 9
The City of Paso Robles Community Services Department will temporarily close the Veterans Park trail (formerly Oak Creek Park) from Tuesday, April 29, through Friday, May 9, for critical asphalt repairs and slurry sealing. Located at 301 Cedarwood Drive, the trail maintenance aims to ensure long-term safety and enjoyment for pedestrians and cyclists.
Residents are asked to follow all posted signs and detours during this time. For updates, contact the Community Services Department at (805) 237-3988 or email parks@prcity.com
Convicted child murderer granted early parole
On April 22, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Parole Board affirmed their 2024 decision to grant early parole to convicted child murderer Herbert David Brown III, 41, of Paso Robles. Brown entered a plea of no contest in 2015 to the brutal beating murder in 2013 of his 22-month-old daughter Lily. Brown was sentenced to serve 15 years to life in state prison and has only served 12 years to date. Lily was pronounced dead on Feb. 19, 2013 — the day after Brown placed a 911 call to report that Lily stopped breathing. Lily had suffered multiple injuries, the most serious of which was a fractured skull consistent with striking with great force against a hard object.
“It is shameful for the Parole Board to grant Herbert David Brown III early release from prison,” said SLO County District Attorney Dan Dow.
“Mr. Brown was convicted of murdering his own 22-month young daughter Lily due to abuse he inflicted upon her while he was using and under the influence of methamphetamine. Brown, who now identifies as a woman and goes by the name ‘Allie Brown,’ was sentenced to serve 15-years-to-life and should have served every day of the 15
NEWS BRIEFS
years before being considered for possible parole. I ask the Board of Parole Hearings:‘Where is the justice for Baby Lily?’”
Brown was initially granted parole on Oct. 30, 2024, over strenuous objections by the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office and surviving family members of young Lily, including her mother.
In March 2025, California Gov. Gavin Newsom referred the parole decision back to the parole board for review. The parole board reviewed their previous decision earlier this week and affirmed the initial early grant of parole for Brown.
In 2016, Proposition 57 claimed to only allow non-violent prisoners to be released early from prison. However, the District Attorney’s office says this was a misrepresentation because Proposition 57 authorized the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) to award violent offenders additional credits towards serving their indeterminate sentence. This means that even those inmates sentenced for violent offenses, like murder of a child, are eligible to be released much earlier than under the law that was in effect prior to the passage of Proposition 57.
The date of Brown’s release has not yet been determined. Click here for more information on the CDCR Board of Parole Hearings page at cdcr. ca.gov/bph/
On April 25, Dow contacted Newsom, urging the reversal of the Board of Parole Hearings’ decision to release Allie Brown (formerly Herbert David Brown III) early from prison.
“Precious Lily deserves better. The time is now Governor Newsom, please help ensure that we have Justice for Lily Brown,” Dow said.
D ownload a copy of
District Attorney Dan Dow’s letter at sloc ounty.ca.gov/ getmedi a/b18724d8-87944f5a -b705-89d9d3343706/ brown-allie_-ay2227_letterto-governor-april-25-2025_ redacted
If you agree with District Attorney Dow, you can also contact the governor (gov. ca.gov/contact/) and urge him to use the authority he has under the California Constitution to reverse the Parole Board’s decision.
City seeks community feedback on designs for Larry Moore Park at May 8 Open House
The City of Paso Robles invites community members to attend a Design Open House for Larry Moore Park on Thursday, May 8, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Acorn Room at Centennial Park, 600 Nickerson Drive.
The city, in partnership with David Volz Design, is in the process of developing a vision for the future of Larry Moore Park. Over the past several months, residents have shared valuable ideas and priorities for the park, and that input has helped shape a set of draft design concepts that reflect both the possibilities and community priorities for the site.
The Design Open House will give attendees a chance to view the proposed draft plans, ask questions, and share feedback to help refine the final design. City staff and members of the David Volz Design team will be in attendance to answer questions and discuss potential improvements and amenities.
“Community input plays a vital role in shaping our public spaces,” said Freda Berman,
public works director for the City of Paso Robles. “Parks like Larry Moore are more than just open space — they’re places where neighbors connect and children play. We encourage everyone to come take a look at the draft designs and be part of the conversation about the future of this neighborhood park.”
Larry Moore Park is located at 155 Riverbank Lane near the Salinas River in Paso Robles and currently features a playground area, barbecue space, a baseball field with a backstop, and a soccer field. The park also includes the trailhead for the Salinas River Trail.
If you are unable to attend the meeting but would like to provide comments, please email them to parks@prcity.com
Must! Charities to welcome new director of development and community engagement
Must! Charities is thrilled to announce a game-changing addition to its leadership team with the appointment of Cara Wright as director of development and community engagement. A fourth-generation leader deeply rooted in San Luis Obispo County, Cara brings an unparalleled passion, expertise, and dedication to the region’s growth and prosperity.
With a legacy of service and a proven track record of community leadership, Cara is poised to elevate Must! Charities to unprecedented heights. With a visionary approach and deep local ties Cara will help drive the organization’s mission forward, forging new partnerships and expanding Must! Charities’ overall impact in the community.
“This is a monumental moment for Must! Charities,” said Becky Gray, CEO of Must! Charities. “Cara is a true force for good — someone who understands the fabric of our community and has the leadership, innovation, and heart to help take our mission to the next level. We could not be more excited to have her on our team.”
Must! Charities has been a catalyst for change in the region, investing in local nonprofit initiatives that address critical needs in North SLO County and beyond. These needs include everything from education, food insecurities, housing, youth services, and more. With Cara at the helm of development and community engagement, the organization is poised for a new era of transformative growth.
“I am honored to join an organization that is redefining philanthropy in our community,” said Cara Wright. “Must! Charities is not just about giving — it’s about making strategic, long-term investments that create real, lasting change. I am beyond excited to be part of this incredible movement.”
The future of Must! Charities has never been brighter, and with Cara leading the charge in development and community engagement, the organization is ready to expand its reach, deepen its impact, and change even more lives.
ATASCADERO
Atascadero to host 9th annual Tamale Festival May 2-3
The City of Atascadero will celebrate its 9th Annual Tamale Festival on Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3, at Sunken Gardens and Downtown Atascadero. Festivities kick off Friday with “Fiesta Friday” from 5:30 to 8 p.m., featuring tamale vendors, the Atascadero Chamber’s “Sip & Shop,” and complimentary Historic City Hall tours.
The main event runs Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with more than 100 vendors offering tamales, food, drinks, and merchandise. Entertainment includes live music, folkloric dance groups, famous dancing horses, and family-friendly activities. Highlights also include the “Best Tamale Contest,” a Chihuahua Pet & Costume Contest, and a Tamale Eating Contest.
Admission is free, and proceeds from beverage sales will benefit the Friends of the Charles Paddock Zoo. For more information, visit Visi tAtascadero.com/TamaleFest
Last chance for tickets for Atascadero Chamber’s May Sip & Shop
The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Fiesta Friday Sip & Shop in downtown Atascadero on Friday, May 2, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The event will occur rain or shine.
Tickets are $30 through Thursday, May 1, and $35 on the day of the event. Online ticket sales close at noon on May 2, with a limited number available for in-person purchase at the event. Teachers get $5 off! Every ticket includes a Sip & Shop wine glass. Starting at 5:30 p.m., ticket holders can sip wine while shopping at 20+ participating businesses.
Montse Cross, Sip & Shop event coordinator, shared, “Fiesta Friday Sip & Shop is the perfect way to spend a Friday night with your loved one and friends or even meet new people while exploring charming downtown Atascadero. It’s also a great opportunity to find something special for everyone in your life, think Mother’s Day and teacher gifts!”
Some of the beverage participants include Aaron Wine, Absolution Cellars, Barton Family Estates, Bella Luna Winery, Bonny Doon Wine, Dubost Winery, Eberle Winery, Epoch Estate Wines,
Field Recordings Winery, Hoyt Family Vineyards, Kula Vineyards & Winery, MCV Wine, Marin’s Vineyard, McPrice Myers Winery, Midnight Cellars, My Favorite Neighbor Wines, Mystic Hills Vineyard, Rauhk Wines, Ruby Cellars, Stiekema Wine, and Truss Wine.
Downtown businesses participating include 805 Boardshop, Ametza, Anna & Co., Bee’s Blossoms, Black Sheep Finds, Bloke, Bramble Pie Company, City of Atascadero. Dewy Rose Clothing Company, Ernest Grace, Good Green Omen Apothecary, Julez Bryant Fine Jewelry, Kelly Archer Interiors, Rumor, Saunter Yoga & Wellness, Shop Little Cousins, State Farm by Sara Hays, Suites on Entrada, Tiffany’s Bridal Boutique, The Cut Lounge, The Pottery Community Studio, and Tyndall Tile Showroom & Supply.
For more information or to purchase tickets call (805) 466-2044 or visit atascaderochamber.org
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
Vistra withdraws application to construct a battery Energy Storage System On April 4, the City of Morro Bay received a letter from Vistra Corporation (Vistra) withdrawing its application for city entitlements to construct a battery energy storage system (BESS) facility on the former power plant property. The city will process Vistra’s request and formally withdraw the application for entitlements. The city’s Urgency Ordinance No. 670 will prevent any new applications for grid-scale BESS facilities until Jan. 28, 2027.
The city processed Vistra’s application when it was first submitted on Dec. 22, 2020, until Oct. 28, 2024, when Vistra asked the City to pause municipal consideration of the proposed BESS facility and expressed an intent to pursue state approval of the project through the California Energy Commission’s (CEC) Opt-In Certification program. To the city’s knowledge, Vistra has not initiated an Opt-In Certification application. The CEC will notify the city if they receive an application from Vistra. If Vistra applies to the CEC, the city will closely engage in the process to protect the community’s interests.
More information about the Opt-In Certification process, including opportunities for
public involvement, is available on the CEC’s website at energy. ca.gov/programs-and-topics/ topics/power-plants/opt-certification-program
The city is not aware of Vistra’s future plans for the power plant property. Located at the heart of the City’s waterfront, the former power plant is a critical opportunity site for the community. The city recently initiated an update to the Waterfront Master Plan. This will be an opportunity for the community to help shape a vision for future land uses at the former power plant and other waterfront properties.
The city will keep lines of communication open with Vistra and provide updates to the community as more information becomes available.
Morro Bay City Council sets City Goals for 2025-2027
The Morro Bay City Council decided upon three City Goals for the next two fiscal years. In no order, they are as follows:
Economic Vitality and Fiscal Health Infrastructure Resiliency • (El) Morro Elementary School
The City Council held a special meeting serving as the goal-setting workshop on March 25. Statements for each goal were agreed upon by the council as well as Objectives surrounding the goals.
This year, the City Goal process provided extensive public engagement opportunities including an online community survey, discussions with advisory bodies, a community forum, and virtual participation through emails. Live polling and real-time survey analysis were utilized as interactive public engagement tools at the community forum. City Council and staff would like to thank our community for their active participation. Guided by these City Goals and Objectives, city staff will recommend short-term actions to be included in the FY 202526 annual budget.
Previous city goals can be found at morrobayca.gov/920/ City-Goals-Objectives
To sign up for city announcements and stay engaged, visit morrobayca.gov/ list.aspx
Hancock College CTE students win 50 medals at Statewide SkillsUSA Competition, 40 take gold
Students in Allan Hancock College’s Career and Technical
PAMELA SUE PARMATER THOMPSON 1956-2025
amela Sue Parmater
PThompson was born on March 14, 1956, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She was born to a farming family. She moved to Santa Maria, California, in her youth, and the family settled in Carpinteria, CA, where Pam attended and graduated from Carpinteria High School.
Pam was married to Cal Thompson Jr. on October 18,
GEORGE M. LEAVITT JR 1945-2025
George Marvin Leavitt, Jr., 79, of Paso Robles, California, lost his short battle with cancer and passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on April 21, 2025. George’s funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 2600 Ramona Road, Atascadero, California. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to slocasa.org
PASO ROBLES POLICE DEPARTMENT
APRIL 21, 2025
23:45 — Ariel Satomi, of Atascadero was on view arrest on the corner of 8th Street and Park Street for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 251499
23:15 — Juan Gonzalezgonzalez, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 1200 block of Corral Creek Ave for INFLICTING CORPORAL INJURY ON SPOUSE/COHABITANT [273.5(A) PC], Case no. 251514
00:22 — Audrey Larson, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of Creston Road and Charolais Road for UNDER INFLUENCE OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL CAUSING INJURY [23153(G)VC], Case no. 251517
APRIL 22, 2025
00:22 — Audrey Larson, of Paso Robles was arrested for UNDER INFLUENCE OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL CAUSING INJURY [23153(G)VC], Case no. 251516
10:13 — Steven Orr, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 1100 block of Spring Street for VIOLATING A RESTRAINING, PROTECTIVE OR STAY AWAY ORDER [273.6(A)PC], Case no. 251520
00:00 — Casidy Tarango, of Paso Robles was arrested for DRIVING WITHOUT A SEATBELT [27315(D)(1)VC], Case no.
11:00 — Christopher Thatcher, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 4th and Pine Street for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 251522
12:22 — Bahram Dehdarideris, of Aliso Viejo was arrested for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 251523
14:50 — Jasmine Robinson, of Paso Robles
1973. They started their life together on the south coast in Carpinteria and Santa Barbara. They moved for a brief period of time to Columbus, Ohio, where Calvin Thompson III was born. Returning to Carpinteria, they had two more children, Jessica Willden (Thompson) and William Thompson. In June of 1988, Pam and Cal settled with their children in Paso Robles, CA. In Paso Robles, they attended North County Christian Fellowship Church.
Over her life, Pam worked a variety of different ventures. She worked in the banking industry for 25 years, and additionally, Pam sold Avon products, worked in bookkeeping, partnered at A Crafters Paradise, and spent a number of years selling handmade and homemade items at Reminisce, which was a love of hers.
Pam passed away in her home
RICHARD S. OROSEL 1972-2025
NAOMI R. FERREL 1944-2025
With great sorrow, we announce the passing of Naomi Ruth Ferrel at home, surrounded
on April 7, 2025, after a long battle with cancer, where she was cared for in her home by her husband, Cal, daughter Jessica, and grandson, Payton. She was 69 years old.
Pam is preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Shirley Parmater, and her sister, Debbie Constancio. She is survived by her husband, Cal, her sister Cindy Mendez (Gilbert), her children Calvin (Alexandra), Jessica (Chris), and William (Megan), as well as thirteen grandchildren.
Services will be held at 11:00 am on May 2, 2025, at Templeton Presbyterian Church (610 S. Main Street, Templeton, CA), with a graveside burial and reception to follow.
Arrangements were entrusted to Eddington Funeral Services, 429 Bassett St., King City, (831) 385-5400, www. EFS-Cares.com
Richard Sean Orosel was born on November 29, 1972, in Hayward, California, to Richard and JoAnn Orosel. He spent his early years growing up in the Bay Area until he was five years old when his family relocated to Paso Robles. Richard attended and graduated from Paso Robles High School in 1991 and went on to continue his education at Fresno State University and in London, England. Following college, Richard
by immediate family, on Friday, April 18, 2025. Naomi, born in Kittaning, PA., was the fifth child born to Nelson and Pearl Wyatt. She spent her younger years in Pennsylvania and Ohio, then left the cold to go west into Washington and then Prineville, OR.; Chico, CA.; and Atascadero, CA. Naomi was a wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Naomi had hobbies: needlepoint, sewing, and oil painting. Painting became a passion, which led her to sell paintings around the Central Coast, CA.
PATRICIA J. BORBA 1940-2025
Patricia Borba was born in San Luis Obispo on April 10, 1940, to Mary and Earl Powelson. She was one of three children and was raised in San Luis Obispo, where she attended Old Mission School. She transferred to San Luis Obispo High School during her senior year; after high school, she got a job as a telephone operator, which she
moved to Las Vegas, where he launched a successful career in commercial real estate. A man of great energy and spirit, Richard had a deep love for traveling and exploring different cultures around the world. He was also an avid football fan with lifelong devotion to the Miami Dolphins, and he especially enjoyed attending games.
Richard was known for being the life of the party, often found enjoying a margarita at his favor-
Her greatest joy was teaching younger generations how to sew. As an accomplished seamstress, she made baby clothes to wedding dresses, worked at a variety store, a hardware store, Atascadero News as an advertise setter, and a glass shop.
First married young, the union blessed her three great kids: Yvonne, Theresa, and Mark. In 1980, she met and married John Sr. A few years later, they had two sons, John Jr. and Justin R. John Sr. entered the marriage with one son, Ernesto. Naomi was proud of her children.
always said was her favorite job.
Patricia was a Librarian, a teacher’s aide, and even tried her hand at waitressing. She was very dedicated to her Catholic faith and headed a 20-year annual Marian Eucharistic Conference in Paso Robles. She also headed the Memorial for the unborn in San Luis Obispo and was also a part of the annual Walk for Life.
was taken into custody on the 2100 block of Riverside Ave for OUTSIDE WARRANT/M, BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 251523
APRIL 23, 2025
01:28 — Steven French, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 1300 block of Oak Street for POSS CNTL SUB W/2 OR MORE PRIORS [HS 11395(B)(1)], Case no. 251529 08:41 — Ross Irot, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on Black Oak Drive for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 251532
13:08 —Matthew Willis, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on 26th and Riverside for POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 251534
14:44 —Alain Pompey, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the 2100 block of Riverside Ave for BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 251535 16:36 — Patrick Dempseygreen, of Templeton was on view arrest on the 100 block of Niblick Road for POSS CNTL SUB W/2 OR MORE PRIORS [HS 11395(B)(1)], POSSESS NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)H&S], Case no. 251538
20:23 — Alexis Sotelo, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 1800 block of Driftwood Ct ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON [245(A) (1)PC], THREATEN CRIME WITH INTENT TO TERRORIZE [422(A)], Case no. 251541
APRIL 24, 2025
09:39 — Raymond Williams, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of 101 and 46E for POSSESS NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)H&S], Case no. 251547
10:47 — Jordan France, of Atascadero was on view arrest on the 2600 block Riverside Ave for
UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION [11550(A)HS], Case no. 251548
10:32 — Tessa Blank, of Atascadero was on view arrest on the corner of Riverside and Black Oak for POSSESS NARCOTIC CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE [11350(A)H&S], POSSESSION OF UNLAWFUL PARAPHERNALIA [11364(A)H&S], Case no. 251548
14:22 — Sara Carrillo, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 2900 block of Riverside Ave for INFLICTING CORPORAL INJURY ON SPOUSE/COHABITANT [273.5(A)PC], Case no. 251553
16:35 — Julie Odell, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of 18th and Vine Street for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08
PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 251554
23:09 — Dylan Askew, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the 2300 block of Spring Street for BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 251557
23:25 — Daniel Otis, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of North River Road and Caliber Collision for BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 251558
APRIL 26, 2025
00:08 — Rose Krogstad, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 1800 block of Park Street for DOMESTIC BATTERY [243(E)(1)PC], Case no. 251577
01:55 — Audrey Hill, of Bakersfield was on view arrest on the corner of 101 NB and 46E for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08
PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 251579
01:03 — Jaime Manini, of Nevada was on view arrest on the corner of 10th Street and Spring Street DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF
ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 251578
07:28 — Ryan Debruler, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the corner of 101 and 46 for FALSE IDENTIFICATION TO POLICE [148.9(A) PC], Case no. 251580
08:26 — Benjamin Roberts, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 2400 block of Railroad Tracks for FALSE IDENTIFICATION TO POLICE [148.9(A)PC], BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 251581
00:00 — Anthony Stephenson, of Paso Robles was arrested for ENGAGING IN A SPEED CONTEST [23109(C)VC], Case no. 251582
15:11 — Audreena Wiley, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the 101 NB Off Ramp at 46E for BENCH WARRANT [978.5PC], Case no. 251585
18:06 — Jaime Diaz, was on view arrest at Buena Vista at Experimental Station for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 251587
18:30 — Androe Lane, was on view arrest at Buena Vista at Experimental Station for INFLICTING CORPORAL INJURY ON SPOUSE/ COHABITANT [273.5(A)PC], Case no. 251587
19:38 — Bryan Scott, of Illinois was on view arrest on 46 West and Golden Hill Road for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], MISDEMEANOR HIT AND RUN [20002 VC], Case no. 251589
APRIL 27, 2025
03:36 — Paulino Velasquez, of Exeter was on view arrest on the 3000 block of Oak Street for INFLICTING CORPORAL INJURY ON SPOUSE/ COHABITANT [273.5(A)PC], Case no. 251592
20:32 — Jennifer Hornlein, of Paso Robles was taken into custody on the 100 block of
At 50 years old, she attended Beauty College and opened a successful beauty salon in Atascadero. At 80, she and her friend, Lynn, started a cookie company, which she continued until her illness. Patricia was always doing something for her community or taking care of someone. She took care of her grandmother, her mother, her brother, and her husband when they became ill. Patricia was a selfless, kind, nonjudgmental, sweet, and faith-filled person who touched everyone she knew in some way. Her legacy will be that of selfless love, compassion, and humor. She is preceded in death by her husband, Bob, her mother, Mary, two brothers, Carl and Ken, and numerous other family and friends. She is survived by her children John, Joan, Robert, Cathy, Leann, Susan, Jim, Bob, and Bill, 38 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.
ite Mexican restaurant, Panchos. His vibrant personality, humor, and warmth touched everyone he met.
One of his memorable reflections, shared in 2017, was: “You can’t get them all, but you can do better than most.”
Richard is preceded in death by his father, Richard Joseph Orosel; his grandparents, Joe and Bessie Orosel, L.C. and Jo Fern Wade; and his sisters, Melody Orosel and Darla Orosel.
She is predeceased by her father, mother, sister Hazel, brother Roy, sister Virginia, and sister Janet. She is survived by her brothers Gary and David, husband John Sr., sons John Jr. and Justin, son Ernesto and his daughter Veronica, daughter Yvonne, Theresa, son Mark, and numerous others. She was a great lady; she will be missed by all.
In lieu of sending flowers, donate to your favorite charity or your local community oil painting teachers. A Celebration of Life will be held for family and close friends at a later date.
Niblick Road for OUTSIDE WARRANT/F, Case no. 251598
20:48 — Concepcion Oropeza, of Atascadero was on view arrest on the 100 block of Niblick Road for UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION [11550(A)HS], Case no. 251598
23:20 — Gerardo Rosalezrivera, of Napa was arrested for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 251599
23:20 — Jorge Galvezrojas, of Paso Robles was on view arrest on the 1600 block of Spring Street for DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL [23152(A)VC], DUI ALCOHOL/0.08 PERCENT [23152(B)VC], Case no. 251599
00:00 — Santiago Gallardomendoza, of Paso Robles was arrested for DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENSE [12500(A)VC], DRIVING WITHOUT PROOF OF VALID REGISTRATION [4000(A)(1) VC], Case no. 251597 ATASCADERO POLICE DEPARTMENT
APRIL 22, 2025
19:54 — Richard Walker, was arrested on the corner of Santa Ysabel Ave and Morro Road for DISORDERLY CONDUCT/DRUNK IN PUBLIC [647(F)PC], Case no. 250709
APRIL 23, 2025
18:42 — John Hamblen, was arrested on the 5800 block of Ardilla Ave for INFLICTING CORPORAL INJURY ON SPOUSE/COHABITANT [273.5(A)PC], Case no. 250717
23:00 — Raul Rodriguez, was arrested was arrested on the 6200 block of Atascadero Ave for LOITERING TO COMMIT A CRIME [647(H) PC], Case no. 250718
There will be a rosary on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 7:30 PM at St Williams Catholic Church in Atascadero. A Celebration of life will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, At St. Williams Catholic Church at 1:30 PM.
He is survived by his loving
A graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 10:00 am at the Paso Robles District Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 1-3 pm at Rava Wines.
DEATHS
LISA ANN JOHNSON, 64, of Santa Maria passed away on April 16th 2025.
Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.
CHARLOTTE “DOODIE” SMITH, 87, of Arroyo Grande passed away on April 23rd 2025. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.
DONALD BRUCE RICHARDS, 54, of Grover Beach passed away on April 14th 2025. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach. NANCY SHARON BAUGHMAN, 76, of Oceano passed away on April 24th 2025. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.
WEATHER
mother, JoAnn Orosel; his daughter, Hope Orosel; his son, Hogan Orosel; his nephew, Justin Brush (Emily); great-nephew, Jared Brush; and great-niece, Jenna Brush.
The Wildflower Experience returns this weekend
More than just a race; it’s a symbol of endurance, community, and connection
By HAYLEY MATTSON Publisher, Editor in Cheif
NORTH COUNTY —
For over three decades, the Wildflower Triathlon has been more than just a race; it’s been a symbol of endurance, community, and connection. Under the stewardship of Colleen Bousman, former co-owner of Tri-California Events Inc. and current founder of See & Be Productions, the event is poised to make its triumphant return as the Wildflower Experience this weekend, May 2 to 4, at Lake San Antonio’s South Shore. With its unique blend of athletic competition, festival activities, and a deep sense of camaraderie, Wildflower is ready to reclaim its status as a must-attend event for athletes, families, and spectators alike.
Bousman’s company, See & Be Productions, is the driving force behind the revitalized Wildflower Experience. The name reflects a philosophy that’s both personal and profound: to help people SEE the joys and excitement life has to offer and to empower them to BE their best selves. It’s also a playful nod to Colleen’s initials, CB. For Bousman, the mission is clear — to create events that foster community, connection, and the grit to overcome challenges, epitomizing the very
spirit of endurance.
“We value creating spaces where people can connect positively and achieve their goals together,” Bousman shared. “Wildflower is more than a race; it’s an opportunity to celebrate human resilience and the bonds that unite us.”
Bousman’s journey with Wildflower began at the age of 10, when her father, Terry Davis, the event’s founder, dropped her off as a course monitor in the pouring rain during the inaugural race. Despite a chaotic start— including washed-away markers that sent athletes in opposite directions — Colleen witnessed firsthand how grit and perseverance shaped the spirit of this iconic event.
Working alongside her father after graduating from Cal
Poly in 1997, Colleen found her passion for race directing, managing the event with precision and a focus on the athlete experience.
“Those early years taught me the value of integrity, hard work, and the importance of creating meaningful experiences for others,” Colleen recalls. “Seeing my dad’s dedication inspired me to carry on the Wildflower legacy.”
Today, that legacy remains a family affair. Bousman’s husband, Matt, has been a pillar of support, contributing to operations and even taking on physically demanding tasks like preparing campsites. Their children, Owen and Emaly, have also played key roles, from assisting with event setup to managing unexpected challenges like swarms
of bees at the finish line. For the Bousman family, Wildflower is not just an event; it’s a labor of love.
The Wildflower Experience 2025 promises a weekend packed with excitement, beginning Friday, May 2, with a vibrant festival atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy live music spanning genres from bluegrass to rock, indulge in gourmet food trucks, and explore a sports expo featuring the latest innovations in endurance sports. Interactive seminars, fitness classes, and family-friendly attractions ensure there’s something for everyone.
The heart of the weekend, however, lies in its endurance events. Athletes of all levels can participate in four triathlons — Long Course, Olym-
pic Distance, Sprint Distance, and Sprint Gravel—as well as additional events like a 20K Trail Run, 5K and 10K Fun Runs, and an Open Water Swim. Young competitors can join the Kids Race on Friday afternoon, making Wildflower a truly inclusive experience.
“Wildflower is more than just a race weekend; it’s an opportunity to build lasting connections,” Bousman explained. “At Wildflower, every campfire and shared meal transforms strangers into friends, creating a one-of-akind community that keeps participants coming back year after year.”
As part of the event’s evolution, See & Be Productions has launched an Ambassador Program that invites participants to become part of a
growing community, spreading the excitement of Wildflower while connecting like-minded athletes who share a passion for endurance and adventure. Additionally, new partnerships are in the works to expand the endurance festival’s offerings, though Bousman is keeping the details under wraps for now.
Camping options have also been elevated, with choices ranging from general camping to premium experiences like RV rentals, bell tents with queen beds, and nearby vacation rentals. For those seeking ultimate comfort, Paso Robles hotels are just a short drive away.
For Bousman, the Wildflower Experience is about more than personal achievement; it’s about creating a space where people can come together to celebrate life, resilience, and community. With over 50 staff members returning — many of whom have been part of the Wildflower family for decades — the 2025 event is set to uphold its reputation as a premier endurance festival.
“This event is a testament to the strength of the human spirit,” Bousman shared. “We’re excited to continue the Wildflower tradition and look forward to sharing this incredible journey with everyone.” Don’t miss your chance to be part of the Wildflower Experience 2025. For more information, including course maps and festival schedules, vist wildflowerexperience.com
Cal Poly rodeo athletes land NIL deal with Boot Barn
Leading up to the annual Poly Royal, the collaboration is a first for the Athlete Lab
BY PAT PEMBERTON GUEST CONTRIBUTOR
SAN LUIS OBISPO — Three top members of Cal Poly’s rodeo team have partnered with national brand Boot Barn for promotional opportunities thanks to the Athlete Lab, a business course that acts as a mini-marketing agency for student athletes
The partnership marks the first time the Athlete Lab has worked with rodeo students since lecturer Randy Rovegno launched the program in the fall of 2023.
Cal Poly’s Rodeo program is one of the strongest in the country, ranked first in the West Coast region and, as of April 8, 20th in the U.S. The Poly Royal Rodeo held each year at Cal Poly is the biggest rodeo west of the Mississippi River and holds massive popularity among the San Luis Obispo community, with all four nights selling out in a record-breaking 30 seconds this year.
Tie-down roper Daniel Miranda and his horse met with students as part of a promotion by the Athlete Lab, a business course that acts as a mini-marketing agency for student athletes at Cal Poly.
The three award-winning student athletes working with Boot Barn include NIRA Women’s Rookie of the
Year Haleigh Grant, professional saddle bronc rider Quintin McWhorter, and tie-down roper Daniel Miranda, who is currently ranked top 10 in the nation.
Following the NCAA ruling that first allowed student athletes to profit from their name, image and likeness (NIL), Cal Poly’s Athlete Lab was founded with the goal of getting the community involved and bringing profit and attention to the athletes.
“Everything we do, 100% of all revenue or trade or compensation from the brands goes to the player,” Rovegno said.
Establishing the partnership with
Education (CTE) programs took home a staggering 50 gold, silver, and bronze medals from the statewide SkillsUSA competition in Ontario, California, earlier this month.
A record-breaking 40 Hancock students who participated in this year’s competition earned gold medals across 25 categories, including cybersecurity, architecture, welding, crime scene investigation, web design, and more.
In addition, seven Hancock students earned silver medals and three earned bronze medals.
Boot Barn is just one piece of the fullfledged marketing plan put together by the BUS 454 students. During the class, the marketing students designed social media content and promotional events for the rodeo athletes.
The Cal Poly rodeo team is primarily funded by donations, sponsorships, fundraising and ticket sales for the Poly Royal Rodeo. The Athlete Lab helping athletes profit and land substantial brand deals to support their athletic careers is a step toward ensuring the rodeo program continues to thrive.
Professional saddle bronc rider Quintin McWhorter of the Cal Poly
Rodeo team took part in a publicity event arranged by an Orfalea College of Business class that is working to promote student athletes and their sponsors.
On March 13, the team took to Dexter Lawn, where they drew crowds by bringing along Miranda’s horse, Hersey (also known as Princess). Beside Miranda and McWhorter, the marketing team handed out Boot Barn coupons and flyers advertising the chance to win two free tickets to the sold-out rodeo — under the condition that they follow the athletes and the Athlete Lab on social media.
“The work and dedication of our SkillsUSA students demonstrates their drive to succeed and their passion for their career pathways,” said Hancock Administration of Justice Instructor Kurt Kruse, who attended the competition as a SkillsUSA coach. “As an instructor, I was proud of every student who competed.”
SkillsUSA is a national organization created to teach students the technical skills required for employment in career technical educational fields and the “soft skills” required in any modern workplace. The organization is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry representatives who work together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. The organization holds competitions annually to recog-
The marketing team helped to develop content for Miranda’s social media, including “A Day in My Life” and “Mic’d Up With Miranda,” videos that follow the nationally ranked athlete through the arena, and a short reel in which McWhorter shares how he first fell in love with rodeo. The content is all in partnership with Boot Barn and created by the student marketers.
“I tell my students on the first day of my class: ‘I’m not here to grade you. I’m here to hire you,’” Rovegno said.
Josephine Kelly, an experience industry management senior who acted as the project’s account executive for Boot Barn and Cal Poly Rodeo, acted as a liaison between the brand’s head of sponsorship and the student athletes.
“For these athletes, it’s very special, because they get to identify with a national brand that has such an establishment in Western culture,” Kelly said. “I think that only boosts their confidence and their likelihood to just want to continue exploring NIL opportunities.”
The course follows the Learn by Doing approach, as students meet with their athletes, correspond with brands, film content, and host events such as the Horse on Dexter, benefiting the athletes and the students’ learning.
“You really get to experience what it would be like working in an actual agency in the world, with real clients, with real athletes,” Kelly said. “And so, you really feel like the work you’re doing is having an impact, which I think is so special.”
nize the achievements of career and technical education students and to encourage them to strive for excellence.
“Students sometimes don’t realize how important SkillsUSA can be for their academic and professional future,” said Hancock Culinary Arts Instructor and SkillsUSA coach Ron Lovell. “This competition helps them with self-esteem, job skills, time management and even university admissions.”
The gold medal winners will move on to compete in the SkillsUSA National Competition in Atlanta, Georgia, in June. To learn more about Hancock’s SkillsUSA program, visit hancockcollege edu/careers/cte_counselors.php
Back and blooming: The Wildflower Triathlon returns May 2–4 as the Wildflower Experience, blending endurance, music, and community at Lake San Antonio under Colleen Bousman’s visionary leadership. Contributed photo
A saddle bronc rider competes at the Cal Poly 79th annual Poly Royal Rodeo in April of 2019. In this event, a rider uses a specialized saddle to stay on a bucking horse for 8 seconds while maintaining control and rhythm with the animal’s movements. Photo by Joe Johnston/Cal Poly
Woods Humane Society announces four free microchip clinics in May
For National Chip Your Pet Month, nonprofit offers clinics on May 2, 7, 16, and 21
NORTH COUNTY — In honor of National Chip Your Pet Month, and with the help of 24PetWatch microchip registry, Woods Humane Society has announced four free microchip clinics to help members of the public protect their pets if they ever become lost. The free clinics are by appointment only and will be held at Woods North County on Friday, May 2 and 16, from 2 to 4 p.m. and at Woods SLO on Wednesday, May 7 and 21, from 2 to 4 p.m.
Microchips, which normally cost $20 at Woods Humane Society, are about the size of a grain of rice and are implanted just under the skin. Each chip contains a unique code
that can be scanned easily by a veterinarian or an animal shelter employee to look up the pet owner’s contact information in an online national database like 24PetWatch.
“Time and time again, we have seen animals labeled as ‘strays’ come into the shelter only to learn with a quick scan that they have a loving family looking for them,” says Woods CEO Emily L’Heureux. “Microchips are tiny, harmless, and inexpensive, but they make a huge impact. They enable us to reunite pets with grateful families and keep owned animals out of the shelter so that we can reserve that space for animals who are truly without a home. All Woods animals are microchipped before being adopted, and we highly recommend all pet owners take this step for the sake of their own pets, and for those in need of shelter.”
The American Humane Association estimates that 10 million pets are lost in the
United States each year, and only 15 percent of lost dogs and 2 percent of lost cats in shelters without ID tags or microchips are reunited with their owners. Pets with microchips are 20 times more likely to be reunited with their owners.
In advance of summer adventures and Fourth of July fireworks, especially, Woods Humane Society says it is crucial that pet owners protect their pets by microchipping and making sure their microchip registration is up-to-date with current contact information.
Local pet owners can find more information or make an appointment to get their pets microchipped for free at either Woods location by visiting woodshumanesociety. org/microchip. Woods Humane Society is located at 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo and at 2300 Ramona Road, Atascadero.
Christy Holman named principal of Pat Butler Elementary
Veteran educator to continue leadership after serving as interim principal during 2024-2025 school year
PASO ROBLES —
The Paso Robles Joint Unified School District is pleased to announce that Christy Holman has been selected as the principal of Pat Butler Elementary School for the 2025-26 school year.
Holman has been serving as the interim principal at Pat Butler during the current school year and has demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and passion for student success, according to the district. An experienced educator, Holman brings over a
decade of service within the PRJUSD. Her prior roles include elementary teacher, sixth-grade teacher at Flamson Middle School, and literacy coach. Throughout her career, she has consistently shown a deep commitment to fostering a positive learn-
ing environment and supporting the academic and emotional growth of all students.
“We are thrilled to have Ms. Holman continue her leadership at Pat Butler,” said PRJUSD Superintendent Jennifer Loftus. “Her experience, vision,
and dedication to our students and staff make her an excellent fit for this role.”
The district said it is confident that Holman’s leadership will ensure a smooth transition and continued progress for the Pat Butler Elementary School community.
Hope Family Wines creates a buzz with beekeeping and regenerative farming
Paso Robles vineyard embraces bees and biodiversity to champion sustainable, organic practices and community stewardship
PASO ROBLES — There’s a buzz in the air as Hope Family Wines embraces beekeeping to help drive its commitment to regenerative organic farming in Paso Robles. Five hives installed at the estate have yielded a bumper crop of honeybees that are feasting on the spring bloom, producing honey and enriching the ecosystem.
The Hope Family’s 67-acre estate vineyard in the Templeton Gap District has been SIP (Sustainability in Practice) Certified since 2011. Owner-Winemaker Austin Hope and Director of Vineyards Stasi Seay are now converting the vineyard to regenerative organic farming, a rigorous set of practices that focuses on soil health and biodiversity.
“We are taking this next step because it’s the right thing to do for our land, our wines and our community,” Hope said. “It’s the natural progression of the sustainable mindset that guides everything we do in the field.” At the heart of this effort are the bees, which exemplify nature’s design for vibrant ecosystems. In addition to maintaining the hives, the winery is also cultivating bee-friendly habitats around the vineyard that will encourage strong pollinator populations with benefits
that extend beyond the fence line. The bees are also producing wholesome organic honey that will soon be available at the winery’s two tasting rooms in Paso Robles.
Last year, Hope Family Wines applied for and received a grant from the California Department of Food & Agriculture’s Pollinator Habitat Program, which “supports the creation of habitats that provide critical floral resources and host plants for pollinators and other beneficial species.”
The grant is helping fund the planting of nearly 1,000 native California flowering plants along the vineyard’s southern perimeter and in the creek bed habitat that bisects the estate. These drought-tolerant plants include red bud, native sage, buckwheat, manzanita, lupin, elderberry, toyon, and yarrow, all flowering at different times of the year to create a consistent food source for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, birds, and other native wildlife.
Honeybee hives have always existed in the native oaks found across the vineyard. However, the new hives have already taken the bee population to another level, creating a literal buzz in the air. Seay notes that the bees will assist in setting a healthy crop this spring.
“Bees can improve set up to 70 percent during bloom,” she said. “Bees are known to remove the calyptra, or cap, from the grape flowers in search of pollen. In difficult weather, the caps can get stuck, resulting in decreased flower pollination. The bees help combat this issue by manually removing the caps and facilitating self-pollination.”
The conversion of the Hope Family Wines estate to regenerative organic farming is now fully underway. The efforts include abundant mixed cover crops; no-till farming; all-organic inputs; and a flock of Baby Doll sheep with two guardian alpacas, Freda and Mona. The animals provide natural mowing and weeding while improving soil diversity.
These efforts are underway in tandem with the Regenerative Vineyard Foundation’s new “One Block Challenge,” which encourages local growers to convert at least one vineyard block to regenerative farming to test, inspire,
and advance the cause of sustainable agriculture in Paso Robles.
Also, during Earth Day Month in April, the Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar is giving plantable pollinator seed cards to guests, encouraging everyone to help save the bee population by planting vital pollinators.
“With the bees and other organic practices, we see benefits that go beyond the fence line and touch the surrounding environment and community,” Seay said. “It’s about creating a vibrant and resilient ecosystem in this place we’re proud to call home.”
The move toward regenerative organic farming is taking shape at Hope Family Wines in Paso Robles, with a flock of Baby Doll sheep (shown above) and a crop of honeybees enriching the ecosystem. Contributed Photos
Woods Clinic will be offering microchip clinics four times this month, imbedding pets with the small chips to
CHRISTY HOLMAN
Studios on the Park to showcase Storie Grubb’s ‘In Your Dreams’ exhibition
Black-and-white illustrations on display May 3 to June 29, with opening receptions featuring live music and wine
STAFF REPORT
PASO ROBLES — Studios on the Park is set to unveil a new exhibition featuring a collection of art by local artist Storie Grubb. The show is called “In Your Dreams” and will be held from May 3 to June 29 in the Atrium Gallery of Studios on the Park.
The exhibition will showcase a collection of black and white illustrations by the artist. The public is invited to the opening reception of the exhibition on May 3, with another reception on
June 7, both from 6 to 9 p.m., featuring live music and wine available for purchase.
Studios on the Park (Studios) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a creative, educational, and transformational experience to enhance understanding and appreciation of the visual arts. Studios on the Park realizes its commitment by making the creative process available to the public. Studios engages and inspires the San Luis Obispo County community and its visitors with a unique open studio environment. Studios features
CONTACT INFO
P.O. Box 3120, Atascadero, CA 93423 (805)712-6356 atascaderogreyhound foundation.org
artists working in a variety of media, educational programs for children and adults, and quality exhibitions by regional, national and international artists. A gift from the Up Front Gallery is also a gift to Studios — all purchases support the arts programming for children, teens, and adults.
“In Your Dreams” can be seen Sunday through Thursday from 12 to 4 p.m. and Friday & Saturday from 12 to 9 p.m. For more information on this exhibition, go to studiosonthepark.org/events/ in-your-dreams
LIGHTHOUSE Atascadero
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
ALF Food Pantry
OUR MISSION: ALF Food Pantry is dedicated to providing nutritious groceries to the food-insecure residents of the communities we serve. ALF Food Pantry (formerly known as Atascadero Loaves and Fishes) is celebrating 40 years of service to our community, providing groceries to families and individuals. The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce honored ALF as the 2024 Community Organization of the Year. With an all-volunteer workforce, we distributed nearly 600,000 pounds of food in 2023, the equivalent of 360,000 meals. We provide quality fresh and shelf-stable ingredients to food-insecure people in Atascadero, Templeton, Santa Margarita, Creston, and California Valley. Clients have increased by 20% each year since 2020 and food costs are dramatically higher.
Donations: We need your help to allow us to continue our vital work. Donate today using our QR code or mail a check to ALF Food Pantry, 5411 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422.
United Way of San Luis Obispo County
EDUCATION. INCOME. COMMUNITY.
CONTACT INFO (805) 541-1234 unitedwayslo.org
CONTACT INFO
Offices in Atascadero, Paso Robles & SLO treeoflifepsc.com (805) 543-6000
CONTACT INFO 1000 Spring Street Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3870 prcity.com
CONTACT INFO Operation Surf 80 San Francisco St. Avila Beach, CA (805) 544-7873 info@operationsurf.org operationsurf.org
CONTACT INFO
6875 Union Road Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 237-3751 redwingshorse sanctuary.org
United Way of San Luis Obispo County’s programs deliver the education and resources that can help families succeed, in the present and for the next generation. Our work is centered on three impact areas that give people the best start for a successful life: Early Childhood Education, Family Financial Stability and Community Strengthening. Please join us! Together we can do our part to make a stronger community in SLO County that benefits us all.
DONATE: Invest in lasting change through a charitable donation at unitedwayslo.org/donate
VOLUNTEER: Find a volunteer opportunity that fits you at unitedwayslo.org/volunteer
TREE OF LIFE Pregnancy Care Center
WOMEN. HEALTH. LIFE
Tree of Life has been helping women and families in our community for over 39 years. All services are FREE and confidential. Women facing pregnancy decisions can find compassion, hope, positive options, and practical help from our friendly and knowledgeable staff. Our goal is to provide resources to assist a woman in choosing life for her baby and then to parent or place for adoption. We also offer compassionate help for women struggling with the mental and emotional effects of a previous abortion. Donations: We’re grateful that all of our support comes from generous individuals here in our community.
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 donations, which are either added to the Library’s collection or used to generate considerable funds toward the purchase of new books, library materials, programs, services, etc. Support the Library in a 100% volunteer-run retail environment. We are seeking volunteers to assist with Gift Shop sales, book donation sorting, and to provide book sale support. Due to limited storage space and staff, we are only able to accept two boxes or two bags of materials per household per day. Cash donations always welcome!
BOARD MEETINGS:
Call (805) 237-3870 for information
Operation Surf
MISSION
Our mission is to channel the healing powers of the ocean to restore hope, renew purpose, and revitalize community. Operation Surf’s curriculum-based programs aim to inspire injured military and veterans to seek wellness in all aspects of their lives while providing the necessary resources, tools, and peer-to-peer support to continue this mindset indefinitely. By staying true to our core values of care, inclusion, commitment, integrity, and communication, we change participants’ lives – one wave at a time. Local Veteran Opportunities: OS3- Three Month Surf Program Application is Open! Apply via the website www.operationsurf.org
OS3 is a three-month, locally-focused program that provides veterans with an opportunity to bond through surfing, keep each other motivated, and move forward in life with a new perspective. Focused on four key pillars of mentorship, unity, family, and the peace of surfing, Operation Surf inspires to make lasting change in the lives of our community.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Redwings is always looking for volunteers to help us provide the highest standard of care for our horses and burros. You do not need to have any prior horse experience to volunteer at Redwings. If you would like to work with our horses, the first step is to take a Volunteer Training Class. This class covers sanctuary rules, basic safe horsemanship skills, and an introduction to some of the horses that you will be working with. After completion of the class you are welcome to come volunteer and help with the horses any time during our volunteer hours. Volunteer hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 8am to 3:30pm, and we are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Note: We do not allow volunteers to ride the horses at Redwings. There are other ways to get involved and volunteer at Redwings too. We have opportunities to help in our rose and memorial garden, volunteering in the office, helping with events and fundraising, and more. Please submit the form below to schedule a volunteer training or contact our office: info@redwingshorsesanctuary.org or (805) 237-3751. For information about making donations, adoptions, etc, visit redwingshorsesanctuary.com. For upcoming events, visit facebook.com/pg/redwingshorses/events
Atascadero Elks Lodge
CONTACT INFO
1516 El Camino Real, Atascadero, Ca 93422 805-466-3557 www.elks2733.org
ATASCADERO LODGE NO. 2733 Since 1987, the Atascadero Elks have contributed over $1,000,000 to local community-based programs, non-profits, youth groups, local sports teams, programs for handicapped 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
follow-us on Facebook or visit our website at: elks2733.org.
Redwings Horse Sanctuary
Studios on the Park in Paso Robles will host receptions for local artist Storie Grubb’s “In Your Dreams” exhibition on May 3 and June 7. Contributed Photo
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PUBLIC NOTICE
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20250656 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: A-TOWN ELECTRIC, 5179
MERCEDES AVE, ATASCADERO, CA 93422, SAN LUIS
OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY: A-TOWN HOME COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL SERVICES LLC, 548 MARKET ST., #118670, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104
If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization CALIFORNIA I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ A-TOWN HOME COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL SERVICES LLC, RYAN REED, MANAGER
This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 03/20/2025 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: N/A
CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.
ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MSTILETTO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires
03/20/2030 PUB: 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1/2025 LEGAL CM 209
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20250742 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: CAL AG, 4615 MONTEREY ROAD, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A CORPORATION: CAL AG PR, 4615 MONTEREY ROAD, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization CA I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ CAL AG PR, CALVIN LANE CHERRY, PRESIDENT
This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 04/02/2025 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 01/01/1982 CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By ATRUJILLO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 04/02/2030 PUB: 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1/2025 LEGAL CM 210
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20250669 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: AECON SPECIALTY WELDNG & OUTAGE SERVICES, 531 PERFORMANCE DR, JACKSON, SC 29831, AIKEN COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCT-
ED BY: A CORPORATION: AECON TECHNICAL SERVICES INC., 531 PERFORMANCE DR, JACKSON, SC 29831 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization DELAWARE I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ AECON TECHNICAL SERVICES INC., ROBERT WAYNE JOHNSON, PRESIDENT
This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 03/21/2025 TRANSACTING BUSINESS
DATE: NOT APPLICABLE CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MSTILETTO, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 03/21/2030 PUB: 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1/2025 LEGAL CM 213
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No 20250595 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: B. THOMAS CABINETRY, 8815 JUNIPERO AVE, ATASCADERO, CA 93422, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL: BRANDON THOMAS KOWALSKI, 8815 JUNIPERO AVE, ATASCADERO, CA 93422 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ BRANDON THOMAS KOWALSKI This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 03/13/2025 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: 03/08/2025 CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MKATZ, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 03/13/2030 PUB: 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1/2025 LEGAL CM 214
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20250541 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: PERFORMATIVE HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC, 104 GATEWAY CENTER DR, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: AN INDIVIDUAL: PEYTON HAYLEY, 3189 E HWY 46, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ PEYTON HAYLEY This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 03/06/2025 TRANSACTING BUSINESS
COUNTY THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED BY: A CORPORATION: LONE MADRONE, 3750 WEST HWY 46, TEMPLETON, CALIFORNIA 93465 If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization CALIFORNIA I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows is false is guilty of a crime.) /S/ LONE MADRONE, JACQUELINE MEISINGER, SECRETARY
This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 03/13/2025 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: NOT APPLICABLE CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MPAREDES, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 03/13/2030 PUB: 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1/2025 LEGAL CM 216
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20250703 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: SYNWEST MOBILE OIL CHANGE, 2316 BLUE HERON LA, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY THIS BUSINESS
PASO
Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization CA I declare that all information
this statement is
and
(A registrant who declares as true information
he or she knows is
DATE: 03/06/2025 CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MMALTBY, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 03/06/2030 PUB: 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1/2025 LEGAL CM 215
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20250603 THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS/ARE DOING BUSINESS AS: KITCHEN 46, 3750 HWY 46 WEST, TEMPLETON, CA 93465, SAN LUIS OBISPO
is guilty of a crime.) /S/ SYNWEST LLC, ZAK PEMBERTON, CEO This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo County on 03/27/2025 TRANSACTING BUSINESS DATE: NOT APPLICABLE CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. ELAINA CANO, County Clerk By MMALTBY, Deputy New Fictitious Business Name Statement, Expires 03/27/2030 PUB: 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1/2025 LEGAL CM 217
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No 20250718 THE FOLLOWING
to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County, California describing the land therein: LOT 83B IN BLOCK MC OF ATASCADERO, IN THE CITY OF ATASCADERO, COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ACCORDING TO AMENDMENT “O” TO MAP OF ATASCADERO RECORDED SEPTEMBER 16, 1925 IN BOOK 4, PAGE 61B OF MAPS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY. The property heretofore described is being sold “as is”. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 8880 CURBARIL AVENUE ATASCADERO, CA 93422. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of trusts created by said Deed of
Trust, to-wit: $365,479.63 (Estimated). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election of Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation.
DATE: 4/23/2025 CALIFORNIA TD SPECIALISTS, AS TRUSTEE, as Trustee 8190 EAST KAISER BLVD., ANAHEIM HILLS, CA 92808 PHONE: 714-283-2180 FOR TRUSTEE SALE INFORMATION LOG ON TO: www.stoxposting.com CALL: 844477-7869 PATRICIO S. INCE’, VICE PRESIDENT CALIFORNIA TD SPECIALIST IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. “NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid on a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size
of the outstanding lien that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 844-477-7869, or visit this internet Web site www.stoxposting.com, using the file number assigned to this case T.S.# 87756. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale.” For sales conducted after January 1, 2021: NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the
property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (844) 477-7869, or visit this internet website www. STOXPOSTING.com, using the file number assigned to this case 87756 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid; by remitting the funds and affidavit described in Section 2924m(c) of the Civil Code; so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. Disclosure In compliance with CA civil code 2924f(F), the opening bid for the foreclosure sale is based on a valuation provided t the trustee by the lender of the lender’s representative. The trustee does not determine, verify, or opine on the accuracy of this valuation and makes no representation regarding the market value of the property subject to foreclosures (the “Property”). The trustee’s compliance or non-compliance with CA civil code 2924f(f) shall not be construed as an opinion, warranty, or representation regarding (i) the priority of the deed of trust being foreclosed, (ii) the condition of title to the Property, or (iii) any other matters affecting the Prop-
erty, Including the value of the Property. The trustee relies solely on the trustee’s sale guaranty and/or Information provided by the lender regarding the lien priority and title condition and does not Independently verify such Information. All bidders are solely responsible for conducting their own Independent due diligence regarding the loan, the Property, its value, the lien priority of the deed of trust being foreclosed, and the condition of the title to the Property. The trustee assumes no liability for the accuracy or completeness of any information provided by third parties, including the lender. The valuation used to determine the minimum opening bid applies only to the Initially scheduled sale date. Any postponement or continuation of the sale does not obligate the trustee to obtain or rely upon a new valuation, nor does It alter the trustee’s limited role in the process. LEGAL CM 250
Notice of Public Sale
Notice is hereby given that U-Stor-It Mini Storage at 9175 San Gabriel Rd, Atascadero, CA 93422 will sell the contents of the storage units listed below at a public auction to satisfy a lien placed on the contents (pursuant to Division 8 Chapter 10 Sec 21700-21716 of the California Codes). The sale will take place at the website www.StorageTreasures. com on May 20th, 2025 at 10:00am. The sale will be conducted under the direction of Christopher Rosa (Bond-3112562) and www.StorageTreasures.com on behalf of the facility’s management. Units will be
available for viewing prior to the sale on www.StorageTreasures.com. Contents will be sold for cash only to the highest bidder. A 1015% buyer’s premium will be charged and possibly a cleaning deposit per unit. All sales are final. Seller reserves the right to withdraw the property at any time before the sale or to refuse any bids. The property to be sold is described as “general household items” unless otherwise noted.
Casey Johnson A050 LEGAL CM 251
Public Notice Notice of Public Hearing GROUND SQUIRREL HOLLOW COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT ADOPTION OF FINAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025/26
Date: June 11, 2025 Time: 7:00 pm Place: SLO County Fire Station 50 6055
PLEASE
1.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
more, leading to the main event on May 3.
MAY 4
MAESTRA - MUSIC FROM WOMEN
3pm
Atascadero Bible Church Free concert - donations benefit SLO Youth Symphony. Music composed and arranged by women from around the world, including the Central Coast.
MAY 10
where attendees can talk with the car owners. MAY 2-3
9TH ANNUAL TAMALE FESTIVAL
Sunken Gardens, Atascadero
Friday: 5:30-8:30pm Saturday: 11am-7pm
The event kicks off May 2 in Downtown Atascadero, featuring tamale vendors, margaritas, live music, contests, merchandise, and
PASO ROBLES OLIVE AND LAVENDER FESTIVAL
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Downtown City Park, Paso Robles
The 4th annual Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival unites farmed olive and lavender products for all to learn, enjoy, and purchase.
MAY 11 MOTHERS DAY
MAY 15-18
PASO WINE FEST
Enjoy the best that Paso Robles Wine Country has to offer across four days of incredible wine events. From winemaker dinners and an event all about food and wine pairings to an educational seminar and brunchtime bubbles, and of course the Grand Tasting featuring 100+ wineries, you don’t want to miss this once-a-year experience.
MAY 16-17
PLYMOUTH CHURCH
THIRD ANNUAL ESTATE SALE
Plymouth Congregational church
Thirteenth and Oak Street
8am-3pm
Find great bargains including: Paintings and artwork, collectibles, shop tools, yard tools, small tables, mirrors, antiques, bicycles, jewelry, handbags, sporting goods, kitchen appliances, musical instruments, And much more! Proceeds of sales go to support church programs in the community, including acting as a warming shelter in the winter months, preparing and serving meals for the Echo homeless shelter, supporting international families through the Zozu
project and The Heifer project, as well as community childcare. Free kid zone on Saturday, May 17 from 10am2pm with bounce house, face painting and free popcorn for kids.
MAY 23
4TH ANNUAL PRE-SHOW PARTY GOLDEN STATE CLASSICS CAR SHOW
Woodland Auto Display 4251 Dry Creek Rd, Paso Robles, 5:30-8:30pm
The Golden State Classics Car Show are excited to present the 4th Annual Friday Night Pre-Show Party, featuring a catered dinner, live music, dancing, and a showcase of cool cars and trucks.
MAY 23-25
BEST OF THE WEST ANTIQUE EQUIPMENT SHOW
Santa Margarita Ranch
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Get an up-close and hands-on look at antique equipment, including: tractors, engines, cars, steam trains, airplanes, and much more. Hosted at the historic Santa Margarita Ranch on California’s beautiful central coast, this unique event is fun
for the whole family.
MAY 24
17TH ANNUAL GOLDEN STA CLASSICS CAR SHOW
12th Street and Spring Street, Paso Robles
9 a.m.-2 p.m.
The Golden State Classics Car Club presents about 300 cars and trucks, including muscle cars to hot rods and antiques to sports cars, from all over California to be on display.
MAY 26
MEMORIAL DAY IN ATASCADERO
Faces of Freedom Memorial 8024 Portola Road, Atascadero 11am-12 pm
The Atascadero Veterans Memorial Foundation will host a Memorial Day Ceremony at Faces of Freedom Memorial, followed by a Kiwanis barbecue.
MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY PASO ROBLES
Paso Robles District Cemetery 45 Nacimiento Lake Drive, Paso Robles 11am-12pm Annual Memorial Day
A family-friendly FUNdraiser supporting Templeton Recreation Department, hosted with Templeton REC Foundation. Register by May 16 for a guaranteed T-shirt. Proceeds help fund parks, sports fields, and recreation programs.
JUNE EVENTS
JUNE 10 - AUGUST 19
TUESDAYS IN THE PARK SUMMER CONCERTS 7-8pm
Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand Weekly starting Tuesday, June 10 through August 19, the band’s 40th year providing free music in the park for the community. Bring your lawn chairs.
program hosted by the Paso Robles District Cemetery with an invocation followed by patriotic music, guest speakers, a closing prayer, 21-gun salute
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WORSHIP DIRECTORY
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.
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 YouTube @Hope Lutheran Church Atascadero. Sunday School for all ages follows worship. Learn more at ourhopelutheran.net. 8005 San Gabriel Rd. Atascadero. 805-461-0430. office@ourhopelutheran.net. Pastor Aaron Smith.
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.
TEMPLETON HILLS SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
God is love. We exist to know and share that love in practical ways. Join us for worship Saturdays at 11am. 930 Templeton Hills Rd, Templeton. For more info: https://templetonhills.adventistfaith.org/
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
COMMUNITY CHURCH OF ATASCADERO, UCC
5850 Rosario Ave. Service 10 a.m. (in person and on Zoom) Pastor Heather Branton (805) 466-9108 atascaderoucc.org
ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH
820 Creston Road., Paso Robles; (805) 238-2218- Parish Office open Mon-Fri 1 p.m.-5 p.m.; website: www.saintrosechurch.org; Mass times; Daily Mass- 8:30 a.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.; Tues. 7 p.m. Saturday Vigil Mass 5 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass at 1 p.m. & 6 p.m. Father Rodolfo Contreras.
SANTA MARGARITA DE CORTONA CATHOLIC CHURCH
22515 “H” St, Santa Margarita (805)438-5383 Parish Office hours:Wed-Thur 9am-12pm Mass Times: Saturday Vigil Mass:5pm Sunday:10am Wed-Fri 10am Adoration Wed following Mass Confessions: Saturday 4pm and Sunday 9am
RESURRECTION ECUMENICAL MINISTRY
offers an interdenominational communion service each Wednesday evening at 7:00, beginning January 22. Please join us at 9005 Santa Lucia in Atascadero. For more information call or text Rev. Dr. Cynthia Gaw at (828) 406-7253 .
CONGREGATION OHR TZAFON"THE NORTHERN LIGHT"
Located at 2605 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA 93422. Friday Night Service 6:30 pm 805-466-0329 congregationohrtzafon.org
BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH – ELCA
Welcoming all of God’s beloved. We gather for worship Sunday mornings, 9:30 at 295 Old County Rd. Templeton. Sermon podcast is at The Little Brick Church. Sunday School during the sermon. Bible study, Wednesdays at 11 in the community hall. Pastor: Diana Edis. Find out more at blctempleton.org
Be included in the Atascadero News & Paso Robles Press Worship Directory for an entire year at $175
This will be a big weekend in Atascadero with Fiesta on Friday, May 2, beginning at 5:30 p.m., featuring a sneak peek with Tamale Vendors and the Atascadero Chamber’s Sip and Shop. For more information about these two events, go to VisitAtascadero.com and atascaderochamber.org
On Saturday, join in the 9th Annual Tamale Festival activities in downtown Atascadero from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., during which approximately 30 tamale vendors will feature their specialties. Other talents will provide live music, folkloric dancing, dancing horses, and more, all free to attend.
On May 10, the Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival will take place in Paso Robles City Park. Don’t miss this event, where everything is olive and lavender-related, plus more! For information,
Child rearin’ these days sure is a lot different than when I grew up. And when I say ‘rearin’ that’s where the biggest difference occurred ... in the rear end.
A person these days would rightly be put in jail and have their children taken away if they were caught administering punishment the same way our parents did. For heaven’s sake, our ag teacher had a long paddle an inch thick that he used for swatting the bottoms of unruly students. I only felt the sting of the paddle once and that’s when he had everyone in the class grab their ankles so we’d feel the full force of his paddle.
There were degrees of punishment at our house. For a minor crime my mom would bend us over her knee and say, “This is going to hurt me more than it is you but it’s for your own good.” Then she’d spank our
Maybe a better question would be, “On what do we place value?” Often, as humans, we are so consumed with the trivial and the unimportant. We allow the temporal to override the eternal. A great deal of our physical maladies are a direct result of us worrying, fretting, and being overwhelmed with that which we cannot change, while simultaneously not paying attention to that which we can change. We simply cannot constantly be a slave to society, work, money, trinkets, possessions, or empty opinions of others. We live in a world where it’s easy to be influ-
Tamales, tunes, toasties
visit pasoroblesdowntown.org
Mother’s Day is May 11, but the Atascadero Community Band invites you to celebrate a week early when you attend their presentation of “Maestra — Music for Women.”
The band is presenting the free concert to honor women composers and arrangers from around the world, showcasing their creativity and brilliance. It’s the perfect way to celebrate spring and the special women in your life.
The concert date is Sunday, May 4, at 3 p.m., at Atascadero Bible Church, 6225 Atascadero Avenue, Atascadero. The beneficiary of donations from this concert will be the SLO Youth Symphony. As always, parking, refreshments and the concert are all free!
The band’s “Tuesday in the Park” summer concerts will start on June 10 and run weekly at 7 p.m. through Aug. 19. Some of our nonprofit organizations are working on providing some barbecue dinners during the summer concert nights. More information to follow.
In my research for recipes to share with you, I have found that names are often mislead-
ing. However, if you really want to impress someone with a grilled sandwich, check the following recipe. I have been making sandwiches like this for years, and we call them “grilled cheese sandwiches.”
The information included with the recipe states that this is a “classic French ham-andcheese sandwich prepared in a sandwich toaster in the shape of a scallop shell. An ordinary frying pan makes a suitable substitute, however, as it is done in this recipe.” You can make a similar sandwich, the Croque-Madame, which uses chicken rather than ham.
Croque-Monsieur
Ingredients: 8 slices dense-textured white sandwich bread
bottom several times with her bare hand. If the offense was a major misdemeanor, like stealing some change from her purse to buy a 50/50 bar from the ice cream man, she’d break one of her yardsticks walloping us a good one. And then she’d wonder where all her yardsticks went when she needed one for her dressmaking.
If we committed a felonious assault on a sibling she’d say, “You just wait until your father gets home.” My dad was a long haul trucker so he could be gone for several days and that meant we’d have to anticipate the spanking for a long time which made it that much worse. His favorite tool for committing child abuse was the belt and he was a very strong man. A kid might not be able to sit down for days after the rear attack.
The second worst whoopin’ I ever got was the time I was kicked out of school for three days for throwing an egg, which was a tradition at our school.
The seniors lobbed eggs and water balloons at the freshmen almost daily and to the best of my knowledge, no one had ever been kicked out of school before,
Does
enced by the ideas and opinions of others, so our priorities must be unquestionably set. We must get the mindset, “I am going to make a difference today because my choices and my decisions matter.” It’s important to reflect daily on what truly matters to you and which aspects you need to value more. In the end, your priorities will reflect the outcome of your life.
We must place value on that which is healthy and highly productive. Do our political views really matter to that which is important in life? What about today’s weather forecast? Does the news or popular fads really matter deep down inside? It’s easy to think that money, status, and wealth are important in life, but the reality is much different. What truly matters is the condition of our heart and our eternal thought pattern. We must place value on that which
Lightly coat one side of each bread slice with some of the softened butter. Layer half of the cheese slices on the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices. Top with ham, dividing evenly. Then top the ham with the remaining cheese, again dividing evenly. Place the remaining bread slices, buttered sides up, atop the cheese. Place a large nonstick frying pan over medium heat. When it is hot, slip a sandwich into the pan and cook until golden brown on the bottom, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. Using a spatula, turn the sandwich over and continue to cook, reducing the heat lightly, until golden brown on the bottom and the cheese melts, about 2 minutes longer. Transfer to a warmed platter and repeat with remaining sandwiches. If necessary, the sandwiches can be reheated for 2-3 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven. Serve with cornichons and Dijon mustard on the side. Serves 4 No matter what you call them, they will still be “grilled cheese sandwiches” at our house! Cheers!
or since, for the offense. I missed high with the egg I threw so it hit a tree branch and the yolk dripped all over the vice principal’s daughter. I was ratted out, called to the office of the vice principal, who was also the football coach, given a tongue lashing and sent home for three days with a note.
Now here’s where it gets real interesting. The captain of the football team just happened to be the boyfriend of the dripped-on girl and he was the one who brought the egg to school and dared me to throw it!
Of course nothing happened to him. Interestingly, when I ran on the school’s cross country team as a freshman I was crammed and locked inside a locker by two burly guys on the football team and stayed crumpled up for two hours! Of course they were never kicked out of school because the coach needed them on Friday night.
I’ve endured a lot of physical pain in my life but the most agonizing I’ve ever experienced was when I was 10 years old and had to sit through an entire dance recital of my younger sister’s dance class. A person can
it really matter?
God places value. People are the Father’s focus. Nothing will ever be more important than the people you love and the experiences you’ll have in your life. While money and wealth may be significant, love and time are even more important in life. We often become so bogged down with the drama of today (or yesterday) that we become handcuffed from creating a powerful future. Be careful not to be defined by what we possess but by that which possesses us. Let love, kindness and a sensitivity to God become the possessors of our soul. Temporary things are replaceable, but people, love, and relationships are not. Place value on only that which will last in eternity. No matter what age, we need to analyze our dreams and our aspirations. Are my dreams and aspirations the dreams and aspirations that spread God’s eter-
Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email her at bbutz1@outlook.com
only endure so much of watching 15 6-year-olds in tight tutus shuffling off to Buffalo.
After one such experience my sister’s picture appeared on the front page of our local paper and my mother was quite proud. My older perfect brother, the exalted one, took that newspaper my mom wanted to preserve for posterity and drew horns on my sister and a goatee with an ink pen so she looked like a fat devil. I thought it was quite a good likeness but my mom hit the roof and naturally thought I did it. And my perfect brother was more than happy to let me suffer the pain that only got worse when my father got home. I insisted between swats that I was not the culprit but that only made the blows harder. When I was 40 my brother finally admitted to my mom that he was the guilty party and everyone got a good laugh out of it. Ha, ha. I’ve suffered from PTSD (post traumatic swatting disorder) ever since.
Lee Pitts is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email them at leepitts@ leepittsbooks.com.
nal light on people and will they make a difference? Sometimes, we need to evaluate our purpose in life. Presently, you may be in desperate straits, but somewhere beneath struggle and anxiety, there lies a person with great worth and value. In your health, wealth, sickness, or pain, you possess an ability to make a difference in your own life and in the lives of others. The very fact that you are reading this article is a sign that God is not finished with you yet. You are a difference-maker. What you do or hold to be true will impact your environment. Choose to make every moment count. Don’t waste time counting your days, invest your time making every day count. Pastor Gabe Abdelaziz is an independent columnist for The Atascadero News and Paso Robles Press; you can email him at alphabeth@tcsn.net
barbie butz COLUMNIST
Pastor G. Abdelaziz COLUMNIST
Templeton girls shine at nation’s largest track meet
Multiple school records broken at Arcadia Invitational
TEMPLETON — Templeton High School’s girls track and field team made school history at the 2025 Arcadia Invitational, held April 11–12, where it competed against some of the nation’s best athletes at the largest high school track meet in the country.
The girls’ 4x800-meter relay team — composed of Kellen Sims, Bradee Breckenridge, Frannie Perry, and Keani Neuhs,
with Naomi Julian as alternate — ran in the Friday night Invitational section. The team clocked a new school record and personal best of 9:22.74.
In Saturday’s open competition, three Templeton runners competed individually:
Frannie Perry in the mile
Keani Neuhs in the 800 meters
Kennedy McAdoo in the 400 meters
McAdoo delivered a standout performance with a personal record of 57.19 seconds — setting a new school record in the
process. Templeton’s 4x100-meter relay team of Kate Nicholson, Ruby Boland, Lily Bell, and McAdoo qualified as alternates.
In one of the weekend’s most exciting moments, Nicholson, Sims, Neuhs, and McAdoo competed in the final heat of the 4x400-meter relay. Starting from lane 9, the team surged ahead to win their heat and finish third overall. Their time of 3:56.50 set yet another school record and personal best, earning them medals and a prestigious invitation to the Nike Outdoor Nationals in June.
The team is coached by Don Crow, whose leadership continues to elevate Templeton track and field to elite competition levels.
KEANI NEUHS
(Top right photo) The Templeton High girls’ 4x800-meter relay team — Kellen Sims, Bradee Breckenridge, Frannie Perry, and Keani Neuhs
Templeton High runner Keani Neuhs poses after competing in the Open 800 meters at the Arcadia Invitational meet. (Middle right) Kennedy
at the Arcadia Invitational. (Bottom right) The Templeton High girls’ 4x800-meter relay team (left) — Kellen Sims, Bradee Breckenridge, Frannie
