2018 December Paso Robles Magazine

• Cuesta College’s Dr. Stearns 

• North SLO County Holiday Events 

• Remembering Richard Benitez 

PASOMAGAZINE.COM

SINCE 1979

YO U R H EARING H EAL T H 

Is time running out on 

your deductible? 

Most medical deductibles reset at the beginning of the year. 

Now may be the best time to have your hearing tested! 

The end of the year marks many occasions... 

The end of the holiday season, the beginning of a new year and the sense of renewal 

that it brings, and for most people the best time to use your health insurance benefits. 

Deductibles typically renew on January 1st. Whether your health insurance is through a 

group or individual, the end of the year can be the best time to schedule appointments 

and save money on healthcare. 

Have you had your hearing tested in 2018? 

For most Americans over age 50, hearing testing is recommended as a part of their annual 

healthcare routine. However, most will wait until difficulty with hearing becomes 

apparent before scheduling an appointment. 

Hearing impairment is very common. In fact, today, 1 out of every 6 baby boomers (ages 

53-71) currently has a hearing loss. Luckily, early detection, prevention, and treatment is 

better than ever with modern technology! 

Peter Lucier has served San Luis Obispo County for nearly 20 years. While things have 

changed quite a bit over the years — especially hearing aid technology — our approach 

has remained the same, which is that of a small, family-owned business that treats its 

patients like it would its own family members. 

Symptoms of 

Hearing Loss 

• Requiring frequent repetition. 

• 

conversations involving more 

than 2 people. 

• Thinking that other people 

mumbling. 

• Frustration and exhaustion 

from conversation while 

straining to understand 

speech. 

• 

environments like crowded 

rooms, shopping malls, etc. 

• Long term exposure to loud 

noises or environments 

• Reading lips or relying on 

reading lips for comprehension 

• Turning up the volume on the 

television or telephone 

Call us today to schedule your hearing appointment 

and make the most of your healthcare benefit! 

Learn more about hearing health at 

www.slocountyhearingaids.com 

HEARING AID SPECIALISTS OF THE 

CENTRAL COASTS INC. 

7070 Morro Road Suite D 

Atascadero, CA 93422 

805-460-7385 

www.slocountyhearingaids.com

FEATURES 

contents 

DECEMBER 2018, Issue 212 

28 photo by Rick Evans 32 

SLO STRINGER HONORED 

WITH PORTION OF US 101 

DEPARTMENTS 

MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR: 

PASO LIGHTS THE NIGHT WITH A BRIGHT DECEMBER 

22 40 

44 

PUBLISHER’S LETTER 

8 Something Worth Reading 

ROUND TOWN 

10 Through the Grapevine 

13 Main Street: Reintroducing Karyl Lammers 

14 Paso Petcare: Animal Arthritis 

16 Hoofbeat, Calendar & Trail Tales 

18 Vets Tails: Miracle, Guide Dog for the Blind 

20 Deck the Halls with Studios on the Park 

PASO PEOPLE 

22 Remembering Richard Benitez 

24 Dr. Stearns: Leading Cuesta’s Promise 

26 Honoring Dr. James Longo 

LOCAL BUSINESS 

34 General Store: Local Holiday Shopping 

OAK LEAF 

36 Community: Neighbors in Need 

38 Spiritual: Awakening Ways 

40 Education: Dr. James Brescia, EdD 

41 Health: Natural Alternative Talks CBD 

and Healing Tea 

TASTE OF PASO 

42 Spice of Life presents Ginger 

EVENTS 

44 North SLO County Holiday Events 

46 North SLO County Activity & Event Guide 

LAST WORD 

50 Memory Boxes: Remembering the Fallen 

photo by Heather Young 

50 

ON THE COVER 

Homespun Holiday Cheer 

Photo by Hayley Mattson 

photo by Heather Young 

6 | pasomagazine.com PASO Magazine, December 2018

Something Worth Reading 

“The Story of Us” 

(805) 239-1533 

PASOmagazine.com 

publisher@pasomagazine.com 

MAIL: P.O. Box 3996 

Paso Robles, CA 93447 

OFFICE: 1244 Pine St. Suite 204 


PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 

Nicholas Mattson 

PUBLISHER, OPERATIONS 

Hayley Mattson 

LEAD AD DESIGN 

Denise McLean 

LEAD LAYOUT DESIGN 

Travis Ruppe 

EDITOR, LAYOUT, DESIGN 

Luke Phillips 

ART PRODUCTION 

Sue Dill 

WRITER 

Meagan Friberg 

WINE EDITOR 

Mira Honeycutt 

WRITER 

Melissa Chavez 

WRITER 

Heather Young 

COLUMNIST 

Sarah Pope 

COLUMNIST 

Bec Braitling 

COLUMNIST 

Lynne Schmitz 

VOLUME 18 | NUMBER 8 

AD CONSULTANT & WRITER 

Millie Drum 

AD CONSULTANT 

Pam Osborn 

AD CONSULTANT 

Jamie Self 

AD CONSULTANT 

Karli Twisselman 

AD CONSULTANT 

Carmen Kessler 

PASO Magazine ©2018 

is owned and published by 

Nicholas & Hayley Mattson 

*No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form 

by any means without written consent from PASO Magazine. 

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31,000 Printed | 26,700 Mailed Locally! 

PASO Magazine is published monthly and distributed FREE to every residence and 

business in Paso Robles 93446, Templeton 93465, Shandon 93461, Bradley 93426, and 

San Miguel 93451 zip codes. Postage paid at Paso Robles, CA 93446. 

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“A Dream You Dream 

Alone Is Only A Dream. 

A Dream You Dream 

Together Is Reality.” 

— John Lennon/Yoko 

Ono” 

Season’s Greetings, one 

and all! We have so 

much to be thankful 

for, and so much we are 

blessed with. Our neighbors 

to the north and south have 

suffered so much these past 

few years. When I read that 

the Camp fire was headed 

toward Paradise, I called 

my sister. Formerly, she was a teacher at Paradise Middle School, and 

now teaches high school math in Chico. By the time I called her, she 

was already evacuated to Oroville with her husband and five kids. They 

spent 10 days in Oroville as her former stomping grounds burned to the 

ground. Luckily, her neighbor plowed a firebreak which probably saved 

her home and many others as the fire enveloped the area. It came within 

1,000 feet of her home, but last week the mandatory evacuation was 

lifted and they were welcomed back home. But it will not feel the same 

for some considerable time. 

On Thanksgiving, we received long-awaited rain, and Chico was provided 

its fair share. That will go a long way toward bringing serenity and 

life back to the area. At the same time, rain can be its own hazard after 

devastating fire, providing the ingredients for mudslides. 

Passing through Thanksgiving week as these fires were put down, we 

can be especially thankful for the highly-trained emergency responders 

and firefighters who do all they can to prevent the spread of destruction 

from these not-so-natural disasters. THANK YOU!!! 

Despite the apocalyptic scenes painted as the end of times, it is of due 

note that while fire is a natural element, the causes of the two devastating 

fires are attributed to power lines owned by power companies, north and 

south, and the Tubbs and Thomas fires were also suspected to be caused 

by power lines, private and corporately owned, respectively. 

The fires, the mudslides, and the death and destruction associated with 

them are not natural disasters, but our own making. We should not be 

surprised, that as we increase the population the planet and enjoy the 

benefits of that growth, disasters like these will become more tragic. 

We cherish our families, our friends, and our loved ones who make life 

worth living and sharing. Without them, we would all have less of the best 

things in life. This season, treasure them all the more, and please be careful, 

and watchful, in regards to all of our safety and security as we celebrate 

the merry and bright together during the most wonderful time of the year. 

Please enjoy this issue of PASO Magazine. 

Nicholas Mattson 

805-239-1533 

nic@pasomagazine.com 

Editorial Policy 

Commentary reflects the views of the writers and does not necessarily reflect those of PASO 

Magazine. PASO Magazine is delivered free to 26,700 addresses in North San Luis Obispo 

County. Our costs are paid entirely by advertising revenue. Our Local Business section 

spotlights select advertisers, but all other stories are determined solely by our editors. 

Submit editorial ideas, press releases, letters and photos to editorial@pasomagazine.com. 

For advertising inquiries and rates email publisher@PASOmagazine.com, or 

contact one of our Adversting Representatives listed above. 

If thou wouldest win Immortality 

of Name, either do things worth 

the writing, or write things 

worth the reading. 

— Thomas Fuller, 1727 


‘Tis the Season to Celebrate! 

The hustle and bustle of the holidays is here, and your friends 

at Paso Robles Recreation Services are ready to help make this 

the best season of all. We’ve got a few ideas to help you get 

into the holiday spirit, fill a few stockings with the perfect 

presents and begin planning for the year ahead. 

Santa Claus is coming to Town! 

Mark your calendars and join Recreation Services and the 

Paso Robles Police Department for this free annual holiday 

tradition. We’ll welcome Santa in his sleigh to Centennial 

Park on Thursday, December 13 from 6-7:30 pm. Santa’s 

elves and the Paso Robles Fire Fighters will accompany Santa 

during this free event that includes holiday give-aways, treats 

and of course a photo op with the big man himself. Santa and 

his sleigh will also visit Oak Park on Monday, December 17 

from 6-7:30 pm. 

Mail Your Letter to Santa at Centennial Park 

We’re so excited that this year Santa’s 

elves have delivered a special 

mailbox in the Centennial Park 

lobby for your child’s letter to the 

North Pole. Bring your child to 

drop-off their letter to Santa 

between noon and 5 pm 

Monday through Friday, December 3 through 21 and receive a 

complimentary holiday treat from Santa’s elves. 

Holiday Hospitality Days at Centennial Park 

Join us for seasonal holiday treats, coffee and conversation in 

the Centennial Park lobby on five special days this season. 

While you’re here, be sure to pick-up one of our new 

winter/spring Recreation Guides to learn more about classes 

for the winter/spring season or pick up a Recreation gift certificate 

for that special someone on your list. Hospitality days are 

Tuesday, November 27, Monday, December 3, Wednesday, 

December 12, Thursday, December 20 and Friday, December 

21 in the Centennial Park lobby from 9 am-6 pm. 

Frozen Fun Coronation Party 

Celebrate the joy of the holiday season with Queen Elsa and 

Princess Anna during this holiday coronation event. There will 

be Olaf and Sven balloon critters, a craft table to decorate ice 

queen crowns or reindeer antlers and of course cookies, cocoa, 

cider and chocolate. For ages 3-10. Thursday, December 20 

from 5-7 pm. $25 + $5 supply fee ($5 sibling discount). 

Raytoons Winter Break Classes 

School is out, and your kids will definitely be looking for 

something to do once the holidays are over. It’s Recreation 

Services and Raytoons to the rescue. Keep your students busy 

this holiday while you’re back at work or regrouping after the 

holidays. 

Drawing Animal ‘Toons 

Students will learn to draw all 

types of different creatures 

from the animal kingdom in a 

humorous "Sunday funnies" 

style. Young artists will try 

warm-up and imagination 

exercises that cartoonist use in 

making their drawings and 

learn to better express their 

Frozen Fun Coronation Party 

creativity through drawing. 

Ages 7+, Wednesday, December 26 from 9:30 

am-3:30 pm. $70 + $10 supply fee ($5 sibling 

discount). 

Video Game Creation 

Learn how to make video games like Super 

Mario or Space Invaders using introductory 

graphical programming software. Ages 10+, 

Thursday, December 27 from 10am-3:30 pm. 

$80 + $10 supply fee ($5 sibling discount). 

Intro to App Creation 

Discover the simplicity of making apps! Learn 

the software that allows users to experience the full potential of 

programming without learning a complex language. Ages 10+, 

Friday, December 28 from 10 am-3:30 pm. $80 + $10 supply fee 

($5 sibling discount). 

Advance registration is strongly recommended for all 

of these classes to ensure your spot and avoid class 

cancellation. Look for the winter/spring 2019 Recreation 

Guide arriving in early December in your City 

water bill. The guide is also available throughout the 

city at many local businesses, City Hall, the Paso 

Robles City Library, Centennial Park or online at 

prcity.com/recreation. To register visit 

prcity.com/recreation, the Centennial Park Registration 

desk (600 Nickerson Drive) Monday-Friday 

from noon to 5 pm or call Recreation Services at 

(805) 237-3988.

ROUND TOWN 

| THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE 

Holiday Shopping at 

North County Dance and Performing 

Arts Foundation will present 

its annual production of The 

Nutcracker Ballet Thursday, Dec. 6 

through Sunday, Dec. 9 at the Templeton 

Performing Arts Center on the 

campus of Templeton High School. 

“It’s definitely a family tradition,” 

Director Cheryle Armstrong said. 

“It’s a heart-warming story.” 

The ballet tells the story of a young 

girl named Clara who gets a nutcracker 

from her Uncle Drosselmeyer 

on Christmas Eve and is transported 

to another world in her dreams. 

This year’s cast includes Kaela 

Tran as Clara, Jenevieve Crossett as 

the Sugar Plum Fairy, Billy Cusimano 

as Drosselmeyer and Samuel 

Fulk, a guest artist from Sacramento, 

as the Cavalier. 

The cast for the 2018 season of the 

Nutcracker has a record number of 

dancers, which come from throughout 

the entire North County. The cast 

has nearly 75 people of all ages, quite 

By Heather Young 

a few more than past years, North 

County Dance and Performing 

Arts Foundation Vice President 

Cali Domenghini said. 

For performance dates, ticket 

prices, and other info, see our holiday 

event listings on page 44, or see 

“The Nutcracker” ad on page 45. 

For information, email info@ 

ncdpaf.org or call 805-316-1833. 

Buy great gifts and support art programming for local youth 

Looking for unique presents 

for those special people in your 

life this holiday season? Look no 

further than Up Front Gift Store 

inside Studios on the Park. The 

holidays kick off at Studios on 

Saturday, Dec. 1 from 6 to 9 p.m. 

Enjoy wine pouring by Justin 

Winery, music by Adam Levine, 

gaze upon the elaborate holiday 

décor, and do some shopping. 

“This is going to be a great 

evening and a wonderful way 

to kick off the holiday season,” 

Manager Elaina Stangle said, 

“and you are sure to find gifts for 

everyone on your list.” 

Stangle and her staff of docents 

will help you find the perfect 

gifts, from jewelry, scarves, 

By Meagan Friberg 

handbags, candles, and soaps to 

ceramics, glassware, baskets, and 

leather goods. And don’t forget to 

pick up something for yourself! 

“We have a lot of new, affordable, 

beautiful, unique items that 

are ideal for hostess gifts and 

stocking stuffers,” Stangle said. 

The artists at Studios, a 

non-profit organization, focus on 

supporting Kids Art Smart – art 

programming for local school-age 

children. 

Forty percent of sales from Up 

Front benefits Kids Art Smart. 

Stop by Up Front Gift Shop inside 

Studios on the Park, located at 1130 

Pine St. in downtown Paso Robles. 

Open daily; gift wrapping and shipping 

options available. 

Sun-Thu: 4-9p / Fri-Sat: 4-11p 

Inside the Historic Carlton Hotel 

Join us for our 

Holiday Parties! 

Christmas Eve & Christimas Day 

Special Christmas Offerings 

New Year’s Eve 

Reserve a Setting for Two 

• Live Music & Festivities during Holidays 

See: nauticalcowboy.com for special menus 

805-461-5100 nauticalcowboy.com 

6005 El Camino Real, Atascadero 

Now Taking Reservations 

Take Out: Call to Order 

Email: nauticalcowboy@the-carlton.com 


CENTRAL COAST MEDICAL AESTHETICS 

Dr. Alex Lechtman 

Central Coast Medical Aesthetics 

of Paso Robles is owned and 

managed by a board certified 

plastic surgeon, and 2 aesthetic 

nurses. Together they have over 40 

Years of aesthetic experience. 

In an industry where many 

med spas offer only one brand of 

neurotoxin and filler so that they 

may achieve a top tier to reduce 

their costs, Central Coast Medical 

Aesthetics provide client-specific 

treatment options. 

The spa uses 3 different types of 

neurotoxins, several different fillers 

such as Radiesse, Belotero, Voluma, 

Juvederm XC, Volbella and Vollure 

along with Restylane/Sculptra in 

the face. The staff is trained on 

injecting Sculptra in various areas 

of the body such as the buttocks - 

also known as the Brazilian Butt Lift. 

They are the first to offer this in the 

valley and Central Coast! 

Cutting-Edge Treatment 

In addition to their widespread 

variety of options in fillers and 

neurotoxins, CCMA also maintains 

the latest cutting-edge lasers. 

Instead of utilizing a standard 

laser for it’s few modalities, 

the spa considers the type of 

treatment and the biology/desires 

of the client then selects the most 

appropriate of a wide collection of 

lasers. For instance, the Candela 

Gentlemax- Pro may be selected 

for hyperpigmentation aka sun 

damage, tightening and IPL’s. The 

Syneron Co2re will most likely be 

used for resurfacing the skin to treat 

fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks, 

and deeper pigmentation 

issues. The Candela 

Gentlemax-Pro is also 

utilized to treat vascular 

issues and Laser Hair 

Removal. Microneedling 

is the go-to treatment 

for shrinking pore size. 

The Co2re Intima is 

used for women’s health 

issues such as vaginal 

rejuvenation/urinary 

incontinence. 

Vampire Procedures 

Interested in learning more about 

the infamous vampire procedures? 

No problem! Central Coast Medical 

Aesthetics is certified in vampire 

procedures such as the O-shot, the 

Vampire face lift and the vampire facial. 

In fact, one of the spa’s latest laser 

purchases is the Syneron Profound. 

This is the only FDA device that 

makes your body produce it’s own 

elastin and hyaluronic acid. If you want 

the next best thing to a facelift without 

surgery the Profound is exactly what 

you are looking for. It amazingly lifts 

and tightens the face and neck as well 

as treats the body for tightening and 

significant cellulite reduction! 

Coolsculpting 

Coolsculpting is another service 

offered by the spa. In fact, they were 

one of the first centers to bring the 

procedure to the Paso Robles area. 

Since healthy, youthful and 

radiant looking skin is a desire 

of most women, the facility 

also provides many other spa 

services such as massage, eyelash 

extensions, waxing, microblading 

and body wraps. CCMA has 3 

amazing estetician’s and sells a 

wide range of Obagi, skin cueticals 

and Image products which satisfy 

each clients needs. The spa also 

offers, infrared services such as the 

Fit Wrap — which helps with pain, 

healing and the loss of inches — and 

acne treatments using the Celluma. 

Rachelle Osterbauer and Brianne Simoes 

With so many options in terms 

of product and services, it is easy 

to see why Central Coast Medical 

Aesthetics is so highly regarded 

within the industry. The spas 

owners are inspired and motivated 

by the knowledge that their work 

increases the confidence levels of 

the beautiful people that trust them 

in their cosmetic journey. 

2120 Golden Hill Rd Ste. 201 


805-238-6330 

centralcoastmedicalaesthetics.com 

Advertisement

ROUND TOWN 

WHAT ’S HAPPENING 

ON MAIN STREET ? 

“It’s Where Everybody Comes Together” 

Our Downtown Ambassador: 

Karyl Lammers 

Karyl Lammers was named our Main Street 

Ambassador in September of 2017. It’s time to 

re-introduce and thank her for greeting hundreds 

of visitors and locals to our 

downtown. Much to Executive 

Director Norma Moye’s delight, 

Karyl represents the principles of 

the Main Street program that has 

given Paso Robles the designation 

of a Great American City. “As the 

Main Street Ambassador, it is my 

honor and pleasure to help make 

this happen,” said Karyl. 

When greeting visitors, she says, 

“I introduce myself, welcome them 

to Paso, offer my business card and 

the Main Street Directory and ask 

how I can assist with their visit. They love that 

there is an Ambassador to greet them personally! 

Many tell me they enjoy not dealing with 

an electronic device, but a friendly, smiling face.” 

By Millie Drum 

With over a year of stories to tell, I’ll share a 

few of the highlights from Karyl’s walking tours 

of downtown. “Downtown is filled with vacationers. 

You know, the ones with nothing to do 

and all day to do it in! Every day is a new adventure 

on the streets of one of the 

favorite downtowns in America! 

The credit goes to the downtown 

business owners who 

rock it! The shops are owned 

and staffed by your friends and 

neighbors, so it feels like home.” 

“Downtown Paso is where 

you meet the most wonderful 

people; visitors from all over 

the world. Family reunions 

bring relatives from around 

the USA (many of whom were 

raised here) to enjoy downtown. 

Paso Robles is HOME and always will 

be. Home is a place where you grow up 

wanting to leave; then grow old wanting to 

come back. It’s not just a place. It is a feeling. 

Holiday Black-Out Bingo 

You’ve got a week to PLAY TO WIN! 

The entry form and list of participating 

businesses is at the front of this 

issue or it appears in the Lighting of 

the Town Songbook available at the 

Main Street office and at some downtown 

businesses. Just visit the businesses 

on the entry form and get it 

stamped! Once the form is complete, 

it’s your Black-Out entry to the contest 

that will gives cash prizes for a downtown 

“holiday” shopping spree. 

Return the form to the Main Street office 

at Norma’s Way (between Park and 

Pine Streets) by Friday, December 7. The 

winner will be announced at Santa’s Holiday 

House in the City Park on Sunday, 

December 9 at 3:00 p.m. 

It’s coming home where your feet may leave, 

but not your heart.” They enjoy sharing stories 

with me and we part with a handshake. This 

is truly the best job in town.” 

Season’s Greetings from Main Street! 

December 2018, PASO Magazine pasomagazine.com | 13

ROUND TOWN 

Caring for Pets 

and Their People! 

By Dr. Ann Stacker, DVM 

A RTHRITIS: 

Is Your Pet in Pain? 

our dog or cat can’t tell you 

when they’re hurting, which 

is why it is very important to be 

“in tune” with even seemingly 

minor changes in their behavior — 

often the only sign that something 

is wrong. 

Arthritis in pets, like humans is 

very common. It is estimated that 

in the U.S. osteoarthritis (OA) 

affects about half of all pets over 

age seven. In pet OA, the cartilage 

in joints that is supposed to provide 

cushioning has given way and 

the joint fluid is no longer able to 

provide lubrication. Over time the 

connective tissue surrounding the 

joint becomes inflamed and eventually 

bone rubs against bone. The 

joint no longer moves smoothly 

and can be a source of chronic pain, 

negatively impacting quality of life. 

The signs of arthritis are often 

similar to signs of normal aging, 

leading owners to conclude their 

pet is simply “getting old” and “slowing 

down” as opposed to actually 

experiencing pain. It is also important 

to note that both cats and 

dogs tend to hide the signs of pain 

very effectively, so how can you tell? 

Beyond the most obvious symptom 

of arthritis — a limping pet — there 

are other signs, including a hunched 

back posture, difficulty getting 

up and down, and sleeping more. 

Dogs often show less interest in play 

or walks and a hesitancy to jump. 

Cats will sometimes be reluctant to 

go in and out of a litter box or climb 

and may develop poor grooming 

habits. Other noticeable indicators 

in our pets are muscle atrophy, irritability 

and changes in sociability. 

Recognizing these signs of arthritis 

is the first step to helping your dog 

or cat stay comfortable as they age. 

Though not curable, there are treatment 

options and 

ways to prevent further 

joint damage 

— the best thing is 

to keep your pet at a 

lean weight through regular exercise 

and a healthy diet. Some therapeutic 

diets and nutritional supplements 

formulated specifically for arthritis 

to reduce inflammation, target pain 

pathways and support joint health 

are an important option for addressing 

pet mobility issues. Additionally, 

changes in the home such as providing 

well-padded beds or mats away 

from cold or drafty areas, adding 

ramps, rubber stair treads or nonskid 

rugs on slippery floors can all 

help as well to ease pressure and 

wear and tear on deteriorated joints. 

At the point where these efforts 

aren’t enough, it is time to discuss 

pain medications with your veterinarian. 

The most effective treatment 

Arthritis in pets, like humans is very common. 

option is pet-specific nonsteroidal 

anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 

that can quickly revive the spirits of 

pets by resolving their pain. While 

these drugs are similar to human 

NSAIDs and pain relievers such 

as ibuprofen and aspirin, never give 

human pain medications to your 

cat or dog without speaking to your 

veterinarian because these products 

can be toxic and fatal for pets. 

With knowledge, love, support 

and proper care our pets can age 

gracefully and comfortably. 

Dr. Ann and her sister, Debbie 

Stacker, co-own Paso Petcare 

Veterinary Hospital, serving our 

local community since 2000. 

GET YOUR 

$100 

GIFT CARDS 

FOR $90!* 

NOW 

available 

until Dec. 31 

Cannot be used 

day of purchase 


ROUND TOWN 

By Bec Braitling 

I am thankful to report the horse 

show season is finally winding 

down. Being on the road competing 

can be exhausting and exhilarating 

at the same time. We finished the 

season at Galway Downs International, 

bringing home some blue 

ribbons and a few personal-best performances. 

This was followed by a 

quick trip to the UK to source some 

more exciting three-day event horses 

to import to the United States. 

I thoroughly enjoy scouring the 

globe for up-and-coming horses 

but also love that some of the best 

are bred in our own backyard. Let’s 

meet one of our local breeders! 

Brian Jalbert is the owner of 

Oak Meadow Farm, a Holsteiner 

sport horse breeding farm in 

southwest Atascadero. Brian didn’t 

get involved in horses until he was 

in his late 30s, when a job brought 

him to the Central Coast from 

southern California. The once avid 

sailor was forced to sell his boat, 

leaving a huge hole in his recreation 

time. The constant exposure 

to horses on the Central Coast led 

to riding lessons and things moved 

quickly from there. 

Horses met his recreation needs 

and pretty soon he decided to buy 

a property in Atascadero, which 

eventually led to breeding — first 

as a hobby and tax shelter but then 

as a more serious enterprise. Brian 

was introduced to the Holsteiner 

breed early on by Anke Magnussen, 

who owned a business in 

Atascadero importing Holsteiners 

from Germany and, needless to say, 

it was love at first sight. He was initially 

impressed by the athleticism, 

versatility and willing spirit of this 

wonderful breed, which is aptly 

described in the Holsteiner motto: 

Character, Class and Charisma. 

He bought his first Holsteiner 

mare in 1985 and soon owned another. 

Being a relative newcomer 

to the equestrian community, Jalbert 

relied heavily on the advice 

of others and got lucky. Early on, 

he was influenced by the legendary 

Holsteiner breeder Lieselott 

Wiendieck, who gave some advice 

which has been at the core of his 

program through the years. She 

said, "You only need one or two 

mares. Select them very carefully 

and breed them to the best stallions 

you can find." 

This advice has served him well 

as that little farm has produced two 

North American champion mares to 

the Holsteiner registry and his Oak 

Meadow Holsteiner foals typically 

earn foal premium awards. The inspiration 

to continue breeding is the 

joy of working with the new foals 

each year — being a small farm he 

typically has just one or two foals as 

the goal has always been to produce 

the best possible sport horse he can. 

Brian bases stallion selection 

on two factors. First, he tries to 

select a compatible type. Each 

mare is vastly different and each 

needs a stallion that will complement 

her good qualities while 

not adding any undesirable traits. 

For example, the heavier-bodied, 

old style Holsteiner mare needs a 

lighter, more refined stallion, while 

the other mare, which is a more 

modern type, can do well when 

crossed with a stallion with more 

substance and bone. He also suggests 

sticking with a winning combination. 

If the results of a cross 

are successful, he will repeat again, 

oftentimes more than once. 

Although he admits he’s not a 

"line breeder" — one must also 

consider pedigree — he favours 

sticking with older more established 

lines rather than going 

for the current "stallion du jour" 

which may be a passing fancy. 

Jalbert has used artificial insemination 

using fresh, chilled semen 

exclusively until this year, which was 

his first venture into breeding with 

frozen semen. This method makes a 

wider range of stallions available to 

American breeders and his aim is to 

do more with this in the future. 

Brian’s advice to new breeders: 

breed the best to the best! Some of 

Brian’s progeny has already made 

waves on the international stage in 

the sport of three day eventing with 

local trainer Andrea Baxter piloting 

Oak Meadow bred “Enfinity” 

to some impressive finishes and has 

her sights set on the Young Horse 

World Championships, Modial Du 

Lion, Le Lion- D’Angers France 


ROUND TOWN 

in 2019. Other graduates have 

been sold across the United States, 

paving the way in all English disciplines 

for the small but mighty 

Holsteiner breeder that calls the 

Central Coast home. 

Heading into the festive season, 

I’m thrilled to report that Jacob 

Greene is recovering well from 

a head injury he sustained in an 

MX accident in early October. 

He was transferred to a facility in 

Arroyo Grande to continue his 

rehabilitation and is looking forward 

to returning home by December. 

His parents Kelly and 

Marcus report his progress has 

been astonishing and we hope 

that trend continues through the 

holidays. The strength of the 

Greene family is second to none 

and I’m grateful they’re a part 

of our amazing Central Coast 

equestrian community. 

December 1: Whitehorse Tack 

Customer Appreciation Gathering. 

Come and enjoy this fun endof-year 

sale with food, discounts, 

giveaways and drawings. The first 

50 people through the door between 

2 and 6 p.m. will receive gift 

bags. Join the festivities at 2805 

Black Oak Drive, Paso Robles. 

December 1-2: Winter Wonderland 

Schooling Show. Paso 

Robles Horse Park, 3801 Hughes 

Parkway, Paso Robles. Come and 

hone your skills in a laid back and 

super fun environment at the final 

schooling show of the year. Entries 

can be found online at pasorobleshorsepark.com. 

December 6-15: Cowboy Christmas, 

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily, free 

admission, Las Vegas Convention 

Center, South Halls, 3150 Paradise 

Road Las Vegas. 

December 15-16: Kristin Hardin 

Clinic at Marcly Farms Equestrian 

Center, Nipomo. Come and 

learn from one of California’s most 

successful jumper riders. Auditors 

welcome at no charge. Food 

available. Contact Kelly Greene 

at 805-310-2555 or email marcly 

farms@yahoo.com for more information. 

Check weather reports and footing PRIOR to loading up. Please stay off designated 

trails after rain in order to preserve them. Most trails require at least 

two full sunny days to dry enough for suitable trail riding without erosion. 

View: Ocean & coastal dunes Fees: Free, so far 

Access: Pecho Valley Rd., park in lot across from Camp Keep 

Rated: Easy, but deep sand can be tiring for horses, go easy 

Time Factor: 10-12 miles, 3-4 hours at walk 

Trail: Single track, fire rd. thru dunes, may also ride on beach 

Feet: Barefoot fine for most horses, but suggest shoes, some rocks 

Dogs: Not on trails, leash in parking area, in vehicle if cool 

Camp: Horse water, take own water & food, reserved horse corrals, $7.50 

non-refundable on credit card for camp plus $75/vehicle, primitive, see: 

www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=592 

Overnight: Horse Camp advanced reservations required 

Main Ranger Station: Spooner’s Cove, 528-0512 info. 

First Aid: Ranger’s station, bring layered clothing, hat, sunscreen 

Cell Reception: Spotty Caution: Snakes, hikers and mountain bikers 

Maps: Ranger station, www.CCCMB.org or www.SLOPOST.org 

Participation: see above for trail clearing dates & events 

Trail Directions: From parking, ride down the left side of road, heading back 

out of park. Follow trail to left (by where surfers park at Hazard Canyon). Cross 

creek. Climb out of creek. Take the first trail right, parallels road. Follow trail 

until you see well traveled trails to left, which head to the back bay. Once near 

the back bay, find trails leading to the beach or stay along back bay. Makes a 

loop bringing you back to Hazard Canyon and Camp Keep parking. For more 

options cross the road at Cable or Bloody Nose Trail. 

Brought to you by Whitehorse Tack 

2805 Black Oak Drive, Paso Robles • whitehorsetack.com 


ROUND TOWN 

Veterinary Tails 

By Dr. Ryan Ehlinger 

ith the holidays approaching, many of us 

are thinking about giving to others. For 

a blind person, the gift of sight would be one of 

the greatest gifts of all. While we cannot provide 

this, our canine companions can provide help and 

companionship to blind or low-vision people in a 

way that enriches both the life of the person and 

the dog. Today, I would like to share a story with 

you about one such dog from the North County. 

Wisdom is an almost 7-year-old female yellow 

lab that was raised in Templeton as a puppy 

for nonprofit organization Guide Dogs for the 

Blind. Her foster-care provider, Ellen Frost, remembers 

her as a sweet and loving puppy with 

a very mellow disposition. Ellen said it was hard 

to train Wisdom initially because she always 

wanted to lie down during training. However, 

Wisdom was able to overcome that habit and 

was eventually recalled to Guide Dog’s campus 

in the Bay Area for formal training. 

Wisdom underwent eight challenging phases 

of training with Guide Dogs at their facility and 

passed with flying colors. Ellen attended Wisdom’s 

graduation ceremony in person to celebrate 

as only about 40 percent of the guide dogs in the 

program make it all the way to graduation. She 

said there was not a dry eye in the house when the 

graduating dogs were presented to the community 

of volunteers and their new service companions. 

Wisdom was placed with a senior college student 

from San Jose State University named Emily. 

Emily and Wisdom hit it off immediately and 

formed a really strong bond. When Emily walked 

for graduation at SJSU, Wisdom wore a matching 

cap as they walked the isle to retrieve the diploma. 

After graduation, they stayed in the Bay Area together 

as Emily pursued her career. 

A few years later, Wisdom was brought in to 

Emily’s veterinarian for evaluation of her eyes 

and was found to have glaucoma, a painful ocular 

condition defined by increased pressure within 

the eye. Glaucoma can cause blindness if not 

addressed very early and in most cases eventually 

effects both eyes. Wisdom was referred to a veterinary 

ophthalmologist for specialty care to try 

to preserve her vision. 

Unfortunately, Wisdom’s glaucoma was not 

able to be controlled with medications. One of 

Wisdom’s eyes needed to be removed surgically, 

which effectively ended her Guide Dog’s role 

and she would no longer be able to serve Emily. 

Additionally, there was a significant chance 

that glaucoma would affect her other eye within 

half a year. Now, I know what you are thinking. 

Dr E, this is not a good story! This is a horrible 

story! This is not making me feel the holiday 

spirit! But, wait. It does get better! 

On learning of Wisdom’s illness, the community 

around Emily pulled together to support 

her and Wisdom. The veterinary ophthalmologist 

offered to adopt Wisdom so that she could 

provide the best care for Wisdom’s remaining eye 

and give her a wonderful forever home. Wisdom 

still lives with her in Santa Rosa to this day. Her 

other eye is monitored monthly and doing well 

Our canine companions can provide help and companionship to blind or 

low-vision people in a way that enriches both the life of the person and the dog. 

so far. Guide Dogs arranged for Emily to receive 

a new graduate named Manilow. Emily, Ellen, 

Wisdom, and the ophthalmologist attended Manilow’s 

graduation from Guide Dogs to support 

Emily. Manilow and Emily are in the Bay Area 

together today and are doing well. They still stay 

in touch with Wisdom and the community that 

rallied around the dog to serve a great cause. 

To learn more about Guide Dogs for the Blind, to 

volunteer, or to donate, please visit guidedogs.com. 

Dr. Ehlinger is the owner of the Main Street Small Animal 

Hospital in Templeton. A full service small animal 

hospital serving the north county since 1988. Visit 

templetonvet.com for more info. 



ROUND TOWN 

Deck the Halls with Art from Studios on the Park 

Jesus Cruz and David Stenslein Turn to Local Artists to Make Their House a Home 


Walking through the 

Paso Robles home of 

Jesus Cruz and David 

Stenslein, one immediately notices 

artwork that gives off a distinctive 

feel of the Central Coast. Imagine 

photos, paintings, and more in 

their collection representing docks 

in Morro Bay, cattle in Green Valley, 

architectural gems of San Miguel, 

and Santa Margarita sunsets. 

All of these local scenes and more 

were made possible by several artists 

at Studios on the Park. 

Deb Hofstetter, a photographer 

featured at Studios on the Park, 

and several of her fellow artists 

have works featured in the newly-renovated 

home of Jesus and 

David. Deb was commissioned 

to have her art printed on metal 

with the main piece, 60 inches 

wide by 20 inches tall, featuring 

local grapes and vines. Additional 

artwork by Ann Laddon, Dennis 

Curry, Dean Crawford, Betty 

Wick, and Helen Davie adorn 

spaces throughout the home. 

“I wanted to fill our home with 

as much local art as possible,” Jesus 

said. “To me, these art pieces 

reflect the epitome of the Central 

Coast. We met many of these 

amazing artists at one of the Winery 

Partner nights at Studios. We 

immediately fell in love with a lot 

of pieces, and then we kept going 

back and discovering new artwork 

and artists.” 

As artists, what does it mean to 

have someone buy their art and 

feature it in their home? The responses 

were varied: “It’s thrilling 

and fulfilling.” “It’s what we are all 

about, to share our art and have 

other people appreciate our art.” 

“It really is a completion of the 

whole idea of being an artist.” 

Although Jesus and David currently 

call Los Angeles home, they 

purchased the Paso Robles property 

in December 2017 and plan 

to live in the 2,800-square-foot 

five bedroom home fulltime upon 

retirement. Until then, they visit 

at least once monthly and depend 

on the folks with Paso Robles Vacation 

Rentals to keep the house 

occupied with short-term rental 

occupants. 

“Everything and everyone in 

this area is just so pleasant,” Jesus 

said. “We also like Paso’s proximity 

to the coast – I need to be close to 

the water – and I like the western 

side of the area. And the art and 

culture, of course! We can’t wait to 

live here fulltime.” 



PASO PEOPLE 

Paso Roblans Remember 

Educator Richard Benitez 

“I’ve had doubters and detractors. But you’ve got to be 

a risk-taker. It’s not words; it’s actions that change 

things and overcome obstacles.” – Richard Benitez 

By Melissa Chavez 

A diagnosis of late-stage thyroid cancer stole Richard Benitez from this Earth 

on October 6, 2018. He left behind his wife Sharon, five children and eight 

grandchildren. But Rich also left a legacy that has inspired countless friends, 

students, and colleagues. His fingerprints can be found throughout the Paso 

Robles community by way of his tireless work in education and for many 

service and nonprofit organizations. 

COMMUNITY 

INVOLVEMENT 

Benitez’s contributions include 

decades with the Paso Robles 

School District, where he worked 

in migrant, adult, and bilingual 

education and many years as a lobbyist 

for teachers and students in 

Sacramento and Washington, D.C. 

Especially evident was Benitez’s 

ability to galvanize both young and 

old toward constructive change 

within their communities while 

honoring their past. 

Benitez was the founder of the 

Paso Robles Youth Task Force and 

Cinco de Mayo events and he was 

active in youth athletic programs. 

Benitez co-founded the Hispanic 

Business Association, was named 

Volunteer of the Year by the Economic 

Opportunity Commission, 

worked as a polling precinct supervisor 

and served as the community’s 

Santa Claus at Christmastime. 

A familiar mover and shaker in the 

community, Benitez was rewarded 

for his work in numerous nonprofit 

organizations. 

City of Paso Robles Mayor Steve 

Martin shared fond memories of 

Benitez, with whom he worked over 

the years in their respective jobs, service 

clubs and political campaigns. 

“I first met Rich when I was a 

reporter for the local radio station 

and, after that, the local newspaper,” 

Martin said. “My first memory 

of him is one of broad smiles and 

firm handshakes. He gave me the 

feeling I was a friend the first time 

we met. During all the years to follow, 

regardless of how much time 

passed between our encounters, his 

was always the smiling face of recognition 

across a crowded room.” 

“I have great respect and admiration 

for Rich,” said Shonna 

Howenstine, Civic Engagement 

Coordinator for the City of Paso 

Robles. “We bumped into each 

other at various meetings and 

events over the years. He set such a 

great example for being an engaged 

Paso Robles resident — informed 

and committed, combined with a 

bit of fire and a lot of humor. We 

were lucky to have him and he will 

definitely be missed.” 

“I had the pleasure of serving 

on a scholarship committee for 

the Hispanic Business Association 

with Richard and witnessed firsthand 

his dedication and devotion 

to creating a path towards a brighter 

future for underserved youth in 

our community,” said Paso Robles 

City Librarian Angelica Fortin. 

IMPACT ON 

EDUCATION 

Benitez was a doer. He raised 

scholarship money for high school 

students through annual tamale 

sales, was president of the Kiwanis 

Club and led funding efforts for 

Bauer-Speck Elementary School 

programs to offset budget cutbacks. 

Among those who worked with 

Richard for decades is Ed Railsback, 

whose career as a 36-year educator, 

25-year football coach, and 10-year 

Paso Robles High School principal, 

brought many opportunities to collaborate, 

including when he served 

with Benitez on the board of directors 

of the SLO Food Bank Coalition. 

Railsback described Benitez’s 

caring nature and expectation of 

excellence from his students. 

“I had the pleasure to work with 

Richard in a number of capacities,” 

Hispanic Business Association members, from left, are Francisco, Julie Boyce, 

Maria Garcia, Ashley Harkey, Manuel Medina and Richard Benitez. 

Railsback said. “His positions within 

the Paso Robles Joint Unified 

School District brought me in direct 

connection with him in my capacity 

as a teacher, coach, assistant principal 

and principal. I was also pleased 

to work under his tutelage when I 

retired by conducting district-level 

discipline hearings. 

“Richard was a dedicated educator 

who cared deeply for the welfare of 

all students. As a Hispanic, his interests 

leaned toward the needs and 

successes of that group of students, 

but to say that was his narrow interest 

would be totally inaccurate,” 

Railsback continued. “Rich had a 

wonderful sense of humor and was 

easy to work with, but not tolerant 

of incompetence. That is not a criticism 

on my part but a statement of 

his dedication. He did not care for 

poor teaching, indifference toward 

student needs or community concerns. 

When those occurred, he was 

outspoken in his opposition. Fortunately, 

we did not disagree much, but 

when we did, he had the capacity to 

listen, understand and move on.” 

“Something that I find very remarkable 

of Mr. Benitez is that he 

grew up in a very tough generation 

for Hispanics because of discrimination,” 

said Juan C. Ramirez, a 

mortgage loan officer with Connect 

Home Loans. “He worked so hard 

to maintain his Hispanic heritage 

and for new generations to appreciate, 

understand, and respect it as 

well. I have so many memories of 

Mr. Benitez. What I respected more 

was his love for his family and that 

he devoted his life to the education 

of his students and encouraged 

them to further their education.” 

Fortin added, “I very much respected 

Richard as a mentor to so 

many and as a friend. Although he 

was a retired teacher, he was never a 

retired educator. His legacy will live 

on through all those he inspired.” 

INTEGRITY, 

INSPIRATION 

AND HEART 

“Simply put, when I think of Rich, 

I think of the word compassion,” 

Railsback said. “From what I know 

and what I saw in my relationship 

with Richard, his compassion for 

young people and his colleagues 

was what made him stand out. We 

can never go wrong with people like 

Richard Benitez.” 

“There can be no doubt that our 

community is a better place because 

of the life lived by Rich Benitez,” 

Mayor Martin said. “Rich was one 

of those rare people with deep empathy, 

strong beliefs about right and 

wrong and unceasing energy for the 

work of improving the lives of others. 

He didn’t just talk the talk, he 

walked the walk.” 

Of his efforts to improve the 

community, in 2005, Richard Benitez 

told Paso Robles Magazine, 

“I’ve had doubters and detractors. 

But you’ve got to be a risk-taker. It’s 

not words, it’s actions that change 

things and overcome obstacles.” 

Mayor Martin said, “We can all 

take a note from his smile, his love 

and his actions and make all those 

qualities part of ourselves. That is 

the best way to honor Rich and 

carry the impact of his life forward 

into the future. 


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PASO PEOPLE 

Dr. Jill Stearns: Leading Cuesta’s Promise 

New Leader Brings New 

Vision, New Programs, 

and New Cougar Spirit 

By Nicholas Mattson 

Facing the retirement of former president 

Gil Stork, Cuesta College conducted a 

nationwide search to find the right person 

to fill the shoes of the 50-year Cuesta veteran who 

fulfilled a personal goal with the establishment of 

a second year of the Promise Scholarship — the 

last item his bucket list — before retiring in June. 

On July 11, Dr. Jill Stearns was sworn in as 

Cuesta College’s seventh Superintendent/ 

President, bringing a complementary history 

of experience and success to the Central Coast’s 

premiere community college. 

Dr. Stearns had served as president of 

Modesto Junior College since 2012, where she 

left a legacy of improving accreditation compliance 

and decreasing disparity. 

“When I arrived at MJC, the college had been 

placed on sanction and probation in terms of its 

accreditation,” Stearns 

said, “there were 

some very serious issues 

to be addressed.” 

Sterns spent the 

first couple years focused 

on aligning the 

practices with the 

standards, and for the 

last four years my focus 

was moving the needle on the area of student 

success in terms of student outcomes. 

“We were a very diverse campus,” Stearns said, 

“with around 50 percent hispanics and many 

other backgrounds and cultures on the campus. 

There was considerable disparity between the 

highest performing groups and others. So we focused 

on raising the completion rates overall to 

close that gap.” 

Stearns’ success at MJC garnered attention 

and the college was selected to apply for the 

Aspen Price, was one of 15 schools accredited 

to award baccalaureate degrees, and was selected 

as one of 20 demonstration colleges for Guided 

Pathways: “a student-centered approach that 

can dramatically increase the number of students 

earning community college credentials, while 

closing equity gaps.” 

“It is a framework for reimagining and redefining 

student experience on campus,” Stearns 

said, “and moving away from what had become 

a ‘cafeteria-style’ approach to providing students 

incredible opportunity to explore, but without 

providing clear direction on the quickest 

path to completion.” 

Leveraging her previous experience, Stearns 

and the faculty and staff at Cuesta College is 

getting ready for improving student experience. 

“We have already started that process,” Stearns 

said, “and I’ve had and opportunity to review 

a 60-page report based on 15 focus groups held 

at Cuesta last spring. We are capturing the voice 

and experience of the student and using that to 

frame our work for redesign.” 

PASO Magazine welcomes Dr. Stearns warmly, 

and we will continue to deliver information about 

the progress at Cuesta College and deliver information 

throughout 2019 to help new and returning 

students get the most of our local college. Stay tuned 

for monthly installments. 

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PASO PEOPLE 

Honoring Dr. James Longo 

Distinguished Oncologist Retires, 

Continues Vision for Local Treatment 

By Millie Drum and Hayley Mattson 

n August, after 28 years as the primary 

Radiation Oncologist in Templeton, Dr. 

James Longo started saying his goodbyes 

to his patients and his team as he prepared 

for his approaching retirement. 37 years ago, 

Dr. Longo graduated from medical school and 

after 5 additional years of specialty training 

and board certification, he was able to start 

practicing as a Radiation Oncologist. He 

received the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical 

Society Award in 1980 and was the chief 

resident in Radiation Oncology at UCLA, 

and in 1986 he received the American Cancer 

Society Clinical Fellowship Award in Oncology 

at UCLA and became Board-certified. 

“As a student, I was overwhelmed with compassion 

for cancer patients; convincing me to 

specialize in Oncology. For the last 28 years, 

I served as Director of the Templeton Radiation 

Oncology Medical Center. I’m honored 

and privileged to have served the North San 

“As a student, I was overwhelmed 

with compassion 

for cancer patients...” 

Luis Obispo County; witnessing the progress 

in both the level and quality of care. I am 

proud of the medical teams assembled here.” 

As he should be, Dr. Jim Longo, as most know 

him, was at the forefront of setting the tone of 

providing the upmost quality of care to all 

cancer patients. He served as the Chief of 

Staff Physicians, Vice President of the Governing 

Board, Chair of Physicians Leadership 

Council, and Chair of the Medical 

Staff at Twin Cities Community 

Hospital where he also served as the moderator 

of their monthly Oncology Conferences 

for the Medical Staff. Dr. Longo believed in 

the team approach when working with his 

patients, sometimes he was the quarterback 

and other times the referring physician or 

medical oncologist, staying plugged and involved 

within the local medical community. 

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is one of the 

most difficult, Dr. Longo took great pride 

in knowing each patients entire history and 

He treated every patient 

as if they were family. 

researching what the absolute best treatment 

would be. In addition he understood that a 

cancer diagnosis affects the entire family or 

care unit around the patient, which is why 

over the years he has stayed deeply involved 

and supported the Cancer Support Community, 

which his wife Deborah Longo 

was one of the founding partners, Shannon 

D’Acquisto, Executive Director of the Cancer 

Support Community, regards Dr. Jim Longo as a 

“longstanding staple in local cancer care and 

a current Board Member”. Shannon shared 

with us, “His retirement is bittersweet for the 

Cancer Support Community. He is passionate 

about the lives he’s touched and knows that 

the social and emotional impact of cancer 

is hard to support in the medical visit. This 

organization was formed to support the 

whole patient and family. We are proud of 

his work and look forward to seeing his 

passion for the patients and philanthropy as 

it follows him into retirement.” 

This sentiment of Dr. Longo was shared by 

family, friends and colleagues as they gathered 

at the Paso Robles Golf Club on September 

8th to honor and congratulate Dr. James Longo 

on his retirement. “It was just great, we had a 

James Longo, Thom Shulz and David Bolivar. 

Dr. James Longo 

blast. It was so nice to hear the warm wishes 

from so many people.” Dr. Longo shared, 

and they did from his close friend Dr. David 

Bolivar to another friend and colleague Mark 

Lisa, CEO of TCCH, as well as Founding 

Board Member of the Cancer Support Community, 

Thom Schulz and so many others. It 

really was a special night honoring a true hero 

in his own right, for all the years he dedicated 

countless hours, sleepless nights, on call 

every weekend, endless research, all while he 

experienced the loss of patients, friends and 

colleagues and still always remained equally 

passionate about the strides in care that cancer 

“My next big goal is to recruit 

medical oncologists and 

establish a North County 

chemotherapy program...” 

patients were able to receive locally. He treated 

every patient as if they were family. 

So what is next for Dr. Jim Longo retired 

Radiation Oncologist … “My next big goal is 

to recruit medical oncologists and establish a 

North County chemotherapy program. Currently, 

patients must travel to San Luis Obispo 

for treatment. There are huge strides and 

changes in immunotherapy that targets the 

disease more effectively. More efficient imaging 

equipment has led to better localization and 

targeting. Better treatment equipment has led 

to higher accuracy with less toxicity we are on 

the verge of great benefits for cancer patients.” 

Knowing Dr. Longo we would not expect anything 

different. 

Thank you, Dr. Longo. Upon your retirement, 

your talents, skills and interests will be a great 

asset through your vision and a new phase for 

cancer care in our community. 


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Remembering SLO Stringer 

By Melissa Chavez 

Highway memorial sign honors photojournalist Matthew Frank 

When Matthew Frank 

died in a car accident 

on his way to a twoalarm 

fire during the wee hours of 

March 21, 2017, it seemed as if all 

of San Luis Obispo County reeled 

at the news. As more information 

became known about the anonymous 

local photojournalist known 

as SLOStringer, the loss became 

even more inconceivable. He had 

just turned 30. How could someone 

so young, vibrant, and integral to 

the daily lives of so many people be 

gone so soon? 

SLOStringer was esteemed by 

citizens and first responders alike for 

accurate, time-sensitive reporting of 

traffic accidents, fires and other incidents. 

Hundreds attended his funeral. 

To this day, people who have 

never met Matthew still mention on 

social media the loss of his presence. 

On November 2, a ceremony was 

held to dedicate a stretch of Highway 

101 between Avila Beach Drive 

and Spyglass Drive as Matthew 

“SLOStringer” Frank Memorial 

Highway. The proposal, introduced 

by 35th District Assemblyman Jordan 

Cunningham, was made official 

last August. Flanked by fire trucks 

and rescue units, a large crowd witnessed 

the ribbon-cutting at Madonna 

Meadow, approximately ten 

miles from where Matthew died. 

A VIBRANT 

YOUNG MAN 

Mila Vujovich-LaBarre, one of 

Matthew’s teachers at San Luis 

Obispo High School, remembers 

him well. Matthew also babysat for 

her daughters, Danica and Jorja. 

“He was enthusiastic, smart, 

compassionate and had a sense of 

humor,” Mila said. “Matt dutifully 

transported my precious daughters 

to and from school and helped 

with other daily chores of running 

a household. Matt was a champion 

in that he was always upbeat around 

the children and had high standards 

for their behavior. My children 

would always share Matt’s ‘Lesson 

of the Day’ at our dinner table about 

road safety or life in general. I can 

see the future SLOStringer’s smiling 

face and hear his charming voice 

like it was yesterday. His early passing 

was so very tragic. He served our 

community well with such a humble 

demeanor. My prayers and good 

thoughts are with his family and 

close friends. May he rest in peace.” 

A CONTINUAL 

OUTPOURING 

The day after Matthew died, 

Coast 104.5 FM radio produced a 

tribute to him in the form of a compilation 

of music and statements by 

the community who shared stories 

of the direct impact that he had 

on their lives. 

One man described his encounter 

with Matthew after learning 

that his father committed suicide. 

When he saw inquiries about police 

and coroner activity posted on 

the SLOStringer Facebook page, he 

contacted Matthew with a request 

to keep details of his father’s death 

private as he returned to the Central 

Coast. Matthew honored his request, 

replied with condolences, and 

gave him his phone number. When 

they met over coffee three days later, 

Matthew presented him flowers for 

the man’s mother. 

“The respect that he had and the 

integrity that he had was something 

that had out-matured his age,” the 

man said.. “I’ll always remember 

meeting him… he wasn’t doing 

anything for pride, for ego boost 

or for money; he was just doing it 

because it was the right thing to do. 

He was doing it out of the kindness 

of his heart.” 

From August 13 to September 

6, 2016, Matthew provided roundthe-clock 

coverage of the 46,344- 

acre Chimney Fire stretching from 

Lake Nacimiento to Ft. Hunter 

Liggett in San Luis Obispo and 

Monterey counties. One woman’s 

family in Bryson was evacuated for 

ten days. When she realized that 

Matthew was reporting near her 

home, she asked if he could check 

on the chickens and cats on her 

property. When Matthew complied 

and contacted her the following 

day, she was amazed. Not only 

did Matthew send photos, he even 

fed her animals. 

Along with the public, firefighters’ 

family members expressed thanks 

on Matthew’s Facebook page for 

his posts, photos and video reports, 

which often surpassed those of the 

area’s most sophisticated media 

outlets, and for providing real-time 

information about the record-breaking 

inferno that destroyed 70 homes 

and structures. 

One woman, who preferred not 

to be named, saw Matthew almost 

daily when she worked nights as 

a Chimney Fire command post 

volunteer with the San Luis Obispo 

County Sheriff ’s Search and 

Rescue Unit. 

“He had more information than 

we had, but we gave him burritos,” 

the volunteer said. “Our job was to 

keep the generator going and the 

radios up. National media outlets 

were at the fairgrounds with Cal 

Fire. Where was Matthew? At the 

fire. It became erratic at one point, 

but he was the direct line to all of us. 

Matthew was there to help, not hinder, 

and he did so in more ways than 

people ever could. From the frontline, 

his information was invaluable. 

Matthew respected, honored, 

and helped us do our job as a third 

responder. He was truly respected 

and earned the trust of everybody, 

including kids. At the memorial last 

month, this little gal named Mercy 

carried a flag in her hand. Before he 

died, she’d told her mom that she 

was going to marry SLOStringer. 

“While Matthew’s mother spoke 

at the podium, CHP helicopter H70 

had to respond to a call,” said the 

volunteer. “As it flew up, the crowd 

was awestruck as it hovered there for 

a moment before it took off. I like to 

think that was to honor Matthew. 

He’s such a loss. There’s never going 

to be another SLOStringer. I’ve 

never met somebody who had so 

much compassion for our community. 

He truly was an amazing angel 

and we were gifted by him.” 


Unique Boutiques & Great Gift Ideas 

Shop local this holiday season, and get what you need right here at home. Our Holiday Gift Guide businesses want to see you soon! 

815 12th St., Paso 

(805) 296 3833 

Chic Boutique for Babes and Babies Women’s & Baby Clothing, Jewelry, Home Decor 

f a r r o n e l i z a b e t h 

FINE JEWELRY 

5955 Entrada Ave. 

(805) 464-7977 

Atascadero, CA 93422 farronelizabeth.com 

1224 Pine Street, Paso Robles • (805)238-2231 

Hope 

Chest 

Emporium 

Old Ranch, 

Antique & 

Local Goods 

Finer Home Decor & Year Round Holidays 

831 13th Street, Paso Robles 805-369-2829 

Our community is filled with 

Unique Boutique shops with Great Gift Ideas. 

Our locally-owned shops are ready to make your holidays the best 

ever with hometown love and warmth. 

Read more about our Holiday Gift Guide shops on the next page. 

CONTEST: Collect a business card from each shop, take a picture of all 9 cards 

together by Dec. 15 and email to publisher@pasomagazine.com, or post to our 

Facebook Page for a chance to win a $200 Gift Card to the shop of your choice! 

Happy Holidays 

From all of us at PASO Magazine!

Bijou on the Park — Paso Robles 

815 12th St. Paso Robles, CA 93446 

(805) 296-3833 • bijouonthepark.com 

• The woman who wants to look like herself 

and not the masses 

• Explore swoon-worthy clothing, ridiculously 

cute baby items and chic home accessories 

• Get lost in our store, soak in the beautifully 

curated merchandise 

• Mention this ad for 15% off one item! 

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10am - 6pm | Friday-Saturday 10am - 7pm 

anna & mom — Atascadero 

5945 Entrada Ave. Atascadero, CA 93422 

(805) 464-2922 • annaandmom.com 

clothing & gifts for children & the people who love them. 

• Clothing & Accessories for women, girls, 

boys, baby & maternity 

• Home Accents 

• Toys & books & gifts 

• anna & mom offer something for everyone 

Hours: Mo, Tu, Wed, Th, Sat 10am - 5pm | Friday 10-7 | Sunday 11-4 

Bella Jule — Paso Robles 

1224 Pine St, Paso Robles, CA 93446 

(805) 238-2231 • bellajule.com 

Farron Elizabeth — Atascadero 

5955 Entrada Ave. Atascadero, CA 93422 

(805) 464-7977 • farronelizabeth.com 

• Cutting edge software to design 

your special piece of jewelry 

• Use gems of your own or a piece with a 

Bella Jule Designs diamond or gemstone 

• Custom, tailored designs 

• Friendly, comfortable atmosphere 

• Stop by and meet the Bella Jule designers! 

Hours: Tu-Th 10am - 5:30pm | Fri 10am - 6pm | Sat 10am - 3pm 

• Fun women’s boutique located in the heart of 

Downtown Atascadero 

• Wide variety of clothing, jewelry & accessories 

• Well made products at an affordable price 

• Tons of new inventory every week 

• Come let one of our friendly staff members put together an 

entire outfit for under $100! 

Hours: M-Th 10:30am - 6pm | Fri 10:30am - 7pm | Sat. 11am - 6pm 

Hope Chest Emporium — Atascadero 

5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422 

FB & Insta: @TheHopeChestEmporium 

(805) 440-9703 

• A unique blend of locally-made, restored 

or repurposed furniture, decor, candles, 

garden items, and so much more. 

• Items to use in your home and garden or 

give as a wonderful gift 

• New items arrive daily — come by anytime and browse! 

Hours: Open Daily from 10am - 5:30pm 

Funky Wonderland Vintage — Paso Robles 

829 10th Street, Paso Robles, California 93446 

(805) 369-2781 • funkywonderland.com 

Now open in Paso Robles, featuring a fun collection of vintage 

apparel, collectibles, Hollywood memorabilia and art! 

We love providing visitors with unique and fun items 

that they won’t find elsewhere. Come take a peek at our 

inventory, and a step back in time, and enjoy the obnoxious 

and alluring collection that is none other than 

Funky Wonderland Vintage. 

Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 11am-5am | Closed Mondays 

Sixteen Twenty — Paso Robles 

831 13th Street, Paso Robles, 93446 

(805) 369-2829 

(805) 610-1828 for a private shopping appt. 

Offering a trip through history with our finer home goods, gifts, 

decor, and year-round holidays. Come see our reproduction 

painted primitive furniture, vintage Christmas and much more! 

We even have a room dedicated to men! They deserve to have fun too! 

Hours: M-T-Th-F-Sat-Sun 10:30am - 5:30pm | Closed Wednesdays 

SHOPPING CONTEST — WIN $200! 

Thank you for shopping local, and enjoying our Unique Boutique 

shops with Great Gift Ideas Holiday Gift Guide. If you haven’t 

stopped in to say hi to new and longtime local business, please do 

and tell them PASO & COLONY Magazine sent you! 

Our locally-owned shops are ready to make your holidays the best 

ever with hometown love and warmth. 

CONTEST: Collect a business card from each shop, take 

a picture of all 9 cards together by Dec. 15 and email to 

publisher@pasomagazine.com, or post to our Facebook Page 

for a chance to win a $200 Gift Card to the shop of your choice! 


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Paso Robles is filled with Christmas events that 

tell a story. The story started in November with Elegant 

Evening in downtown. The evening included 

wine tasting, food and visiting downtown businesses 

that have decorated for the season and are 

in the Christmas spirit. 

“We start out with the merchants showing that 

they have everything ready to show for Christmas,” 

Paso Robles Main Street Executive Director Norma 

Moye said. “It’s getting people into the spirit of 

Christmas.” 

The day after Thanksgiving, the Christmas festivities 

continued with the 32 nd annual Downtown 

Holiday Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 

23 at 5:30 p.m. Mrs. Claus arrives to turn on the 

lights in the park to invite Santa Claus to Paso Robles. 

The park is filled with people waiting in the 

near-dark for the lights to be flipped on. 

“When Mrs. Claus comes to town,” Moye said, 

“she comes to town to see if [Paso Robles] is ready 

for Santa. [There is] hot chocolate for her and everybody’s 

singing. I understand the Grinch may 

sneak in and try to steal our Christmas.” 

A week later, Santa arrived to Paso Robles in 

time for the 57 th annual Christmas Light Parade 

on Saturday, December 1 at 7 p.m. This year’s 

theme is “Cowboy Christmas.” 


“So Mrs. Claus says, ‘Wow, this town is ready for 

Santa to come.’ So Santa comes into town on his 

sleigh,” Moye said. 

The first time people will see Santa in Paso 

Robles is when he rides on his sleigh during 

the parade. 

“And the Grinch kinda got scared — he heard 

Santa was coming,” Moye said. 

The parade includes a variety of lighted entries 

from local businesses and organizations. A variety 

of awards will be given for the Best in Show. 

A week later, the 32 nd annual Vine Street Victorian 

Showcase will take place on Saturday, December 

8 from to 6 to 9 p.m. on Vine Street between 

8 th and 21 st streets. This is a free event where 

the Vine Street residents and business owners open 

up their doors and other groups from around the 

county join them. Participants give things such as 

hot chocolate, cookies, and other treats. There will 

also be groups sharing the Christmas spirit with music 

and other entertainment. Scrooge can be found 

on the balcony of a house on Vine Street yelling at 

the festive event-goers for being so cheery. 

“[Vine Street is] when the Vine Street neighbors, 

historical society, Main Street and the city come 

together,” Moye said. “There will be music, hot cocoa 

and more. There is snow for children to play in. 

There’s a lot of things happening.” 

Attendees will also get the chance to see the 

Snow Queen, Santa and Mrs. Claus, carolers, community 

open houses and more. Moye reminds the 

community that the event is free and because it 

gets very packed, dogs should stay at home. 

The final Christmas event for the season is the 

28 th annual Victorian Teddy Bear Tea, which will 

take place Saturday, December 15 from 2 to 4 

p.m. in the Paso Robles Park Ballroom at 1232 

Park St., Ste. 200. The cost is $8 for children and 

$20 for adults. 

“That’s when the children come with their 

teddy bears and have tea, cookies, coloring 

books and entertainment,” Moye said. “It’s a 

wonderful afternoon.” 

The Snow Queen and King, Santa and Mrs. 

Claus, Santa’s elves and Victorian friends will be 

at the annual event. Seating is limited, so tickets 

should be purchased in advance. 

For more information about the holiday events 

in downtown Paso Robles, go to PasoRobles 

Downtown.org. 

OTHER EVENTS HAPPENING 

IN AND AROUND PASO ROBLES 

SANTA HOLIDAY HOUSE IN PASO ROBLES 

Santa’s Holiday House schedule in downtown 

Paso Robles at City Park is Sunday, Dec. 

9 and 16 from noon to 3 p.m.; Tuesday, 

Dec. 18 through Monday, Dec. 24 from noon to 

3 p.m. Call 805-238-4103 or go to PasoRobles 

Downtown.org for more information. 

Roundup for Christmas events 

sponsored by Paso Robles Main Street 

CHRISTMAS LIGHT PARADE 

Saturday, December 1 at 7 p.m. 

VINE STREET VICTORIAN SHOWCASE 

Saturday, December 8 from 6 to 9 p.m. 

VICTORIAN TEDDY BEAR TEA 

Saturday, December 15 from 2 to 4 p.m. 



LOCAL GOODS REPORT 

from General Store Paso Robles 

Want shopping for the holidays to 

be less drudgery and more joyful? 

FIVE REASONS 

to shut off your computer and 

Come Shop Downtown! 

1. ANNA Actually, two Annas (Anna our dear first employee and 

mama hen, and Anna 2 whose nickname is NOT Dodger, since the 

World Series). And there’s Mairin, and Ainsley, and Rachel, Ashlynn and 

Veda, and April holding down the numbers. And then Pam, whom we 

lovingly call Mrs. Claus (She’s been playing Christmas music in secret 

since July). These are our peeps, the ones who will personally wait on 

you at General Store. We are not a call center (though we do answer 

the phone). We might sell a book for a dollar or two more than Amazon. 

But we are your neighbors and your daughter’s best friend and 

your local business owners, and we love what we do. 

2. PARKING Did you know that the City of Paso Robles and local 

businesses have dedicated more than 150 parking spots away from the 

most prime locations to encourage employees to leave the best spots 

for you, our customers? The Employee Parking Permit Program was 

intentionally launched at the beginning of the holiday season to make 

it easier for you to find a spot within a block or two of the park. Go City! 

3. THE WAY THE MEXICAN CHOCOLATE SOAP SMELLS 

One of the best things about shopping in person is the chance to 

interact with the goods you’re considering. Flip through the pages of 

that cookbook about sourdough bread. Hold that linen towel in your 

hand. Close your eyes and take in the gorgeous, sweet aroma of our 

locally-made Mexican Chocolate, Black Currant or Cranberry Orange 

soaps. Feel better? 

4. PASO-ONLY GOODIES Brand new Paso Robles ornaments. Paso 

Robles hats, seasonings and flour sack towels. With chickens on them. 

5. MEET THE MAKERS December 1 you can taste YES cocktail 

mixers with Lauren, or December 8 you can try on as many BE BLESS- 

ED FLANNELS as you can pile on those sweet shoulders of yours because 

she’ll be here for a trunk show! Whoo hoo! 

Plus, giveaways all month long(follow us on Instagram or Facebook 

to be in the know). Open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. We promise we’ll 

be worth putting on pants and shoes and shopping out in the real 

world. Did we mention Kenny Loggins ”Celebrate Me Home?” You 

will sing along. Rules are rules. 

Wishing you joy! The General Store Team 



OAK LEAF 

tart a new holiday tradition of 

helping those in need. Get the 

entire family involved — young children 

love to help! Below is a sampling of ideas: 

Can Your Fines 

Serve your local community and reduce 

overdue library fines at the same time 

with the annual Can Your Fines event 

happening at the Paso Robles City Library, 

1000 Spring St. Through December 

31, $1 in overdue fines will be forgiven for 

every non-expired canned or non-perishable 

food item donated up to a maximum of $16 per 

library card account. For more information, see 

prcity.com or call 805-237-3870. 

Donate to RISE 

Help RISE during the holiday season by purchasing 

and donating gift cards from various 

merchants including grocery, shoe, and department 

stores and gas stations. 

Donate items to the Safe House; see riseslo 

.org for a list of suggestions. Financial donations 

go toward providing crisis intervention 

and treatment services. Mail checks to: P.O. Box 

630, Paso Robles, CA 93447. For more information, 

call 805-226-5400 or stop by the RISE 

office at 1030 Vine St. in Paso Robles. 

Lights of Hope 

Paso’s Lights of Hope benefits the Cancer 

Support Community of California Central 

Coast by raising funds and awareness for local 

cancer patients, survivors, and their families “so 

that no one faces cancer alone.” 

More than 35,000 lights will adorn trees in 

the Paso Robles Downtown City Park throughout 

the holiday season. To sponsor a bulb, 

2018 


branch, or tree, click on the Lights of Hope link 

at cscslo.org or stop by the CSC office at 1051 

Las Tablas Road in Templeton. Call 805-238- 

4411 for more information. 

Day of Giving 

The 24th Annual Day of Giving on Dec. 15 

at the Paso Robles Event Center will provide 

toys, coats, and more to local families with children. 

Much has been donated but more is needed. 

Help the Salvation Army purchase food 

gift cards by sending a check with memo “Day 

of Giving” to P.O. Box 2654, Paso Robles, CA 

93447. Place new toys in Toy Bank collection 

boxes or send monetary donations to: Toy Bank 

of Greater Paso Robles, P.O. Box 2801, Paso 

Robles, CA 93447. 

Take gently-used coats, sweatshirts, and 

sweaters to Plaza Cleaners or Paso Robles 

Cleaners. Take new and clean coats to KPRL, 

Idler’s, Farm Supply, Strawberry Blonde Salon, 

El Paso Mini Storage, The Blenders, or North 

County Copy & Parcel. Or, send a check payable 

to the Toy Bank, with memo “Coats for 

Kids” to the address listed above. 

Help the Salvation Army 

Help by ringing bells and collecting 

funds during the Salvation Army’s 

holiday kettle campaign through 

December 24. Volunteer for two-hour 

shifts — call 805-835-6099 to schedule a 

time slot. Place donations in the paper kettles at 

Food-4-Less or send a check to P.O. Box 2654, 

Paso Robles, CA 93447. 

Angels are needed! The Salvation Army’s Angel 

Tree creates toy-giving opportunities for families 

“Blessed is the season which engages 

the whole world in a conspiracy of love. ” 

Hamilton Wright Mabie 

NOT participating in the Day of Giving. Call 

805-238-9591 or stop by the Salvation Army Center 

at 711 Paso Robles St. Tuesday or Wednesday, 

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for more information. 

MORE WAYS TO HELP 

Loaves and Fishes: Send monetary donations 

to Loaves and Fishes, P.O. Box 1720, Paso 

Robles CA 93447 or via the PayPal link at 

loavesandfishespaso.org. Call 805-238-4742 

for more information. 

ECHO: Donate to the El Camino Homeless 

Organization at echoshelter.net or send checks 

payable to ECHO, P.O. Box 2077, Atascadero, 

CA 93423. Call 805-462-3663 to learn more. 

Hope for the Holidays: Add non-perishable 

food items to collection boxes through December 

15. Volunteer to hand out item lists to grocery 

store customers, or host a money box at your 

place of business and donate the funds. Click on 

the Hope for the Holidays tab at slofoodbank 

.org or call 805-238-4664 for more information. 

CHRISTMAS GIFT SUGGESTIONS 

To your enemy, forgiveness. 

To an opponent, tolerance. 

To a friend, your heart. 

To a customer, service. 

To all, charity. 

To every child, a good example. 

To yourself, respect. 

Oren Arnold 

From all of us at PASO Magazine, 

MERRY CHRISTMAS 

and HAPPY HOLIDAYS! 


(805) 550-9891 

snslaundromat@gmail.com 


OAK LEAF 

Awakening Ways Spiritual Community 

is Committed to Being of Service in the County 

e may work and live in Atascadero,” 

said Rev. Dr. Terry zumMallen, “but we 

believe in the oneness we have with the whole 

community. That’s why we have always reached 

out to be a positive influence in the county.” 

Rev. Dr. Terry and her husband, Rev. Dr. Frank 

zumMallen, are the much-beloved spiritual 

leaders of Awakening Ways Spiritual Community, 

which has been meeting in Atascadero for 

ten years. It is a New Thought community in the 

tradition of Religious Science that attracts 

people throughout the entire county to its 

Sunday gathering at Atascadero’s Pavilion on 

the Lake. 

Rev. Dr. Terry 

zumMallen 

Rev. Dr. Frank 

zumMallen 

By Patricia Alexander 

“We appreciate this area so much,” said 

Dr. Frank. “It is important to us to reach out 

beyond ourselves. That’s why we are active 

supporters of RISE here in Paso, which offers 

crisis intervention and treatment services 

to survivors of sexual and intimate partner 

violence. We also donate to Woods Humane 

Society and Friends of Atascadero Lake and 

have a special volunteer crew that works 

on the Highway Cleanup between Del Rio 

Road and San Ramon Road. AWSC has 

been longtime participants in serving meals 

and raising money for the El Camino 

Homeless Organization (ECHO) and are 

weekly contributors of food to Loaves & 

Fishes, as well as clothes to NCI Thrift Shops. 

We’re committed!” 

Awakening Ways embraces the 

belief that there are many roads 

that lead to the divine... 

Awakening Ways embraces the belief that there 

are many roads that lead to the divine, that 

there is a Oneness that connects us all, and that 

all life is interdependent. They offer a meditation 

time prior to their 10 a.m. gathering 

each Sunday, a special children’s group, and 

many classes and social opportunities to 

inspire personal growth and connection. They 

are also offering an unusual world peace meditation 

from 4 to 5 a.m. on the morning on 

December 31 at AW’s Atascadero offices at 

7350 El Camino Real, Suite 101. This is a very 

special meditation that happens at the same 

time every year all over the world. 

“Over the ten years of our existence, we’ve 

noticed that about half of the people who attend 

our gatherings are from Paso Robles,” said 

Rev. Terry. “We’re pleased that our teachings 

and welcoming community have attracted so 

many Paso residents. We look forward to welcoming 

more Paso people in the upcoming year 

and continuing our service to the county where 

we all live.” 

To learn more about Awakening Ways 

Spiritual Community, visit their website 

at AwakeningWays.org or call 

805-460-0762. 


Hair / Skin / Nails 


Not Your Parents’ CAREER and 

TECHNICAL EDUCATION 

By James J. Brescia Ed.D 

SLO County Office of 

Education Superintendent 

Career Technical Education 

(CTE) in each of our 

school districts provides 

North County students of all ages 

with the training, academic skills, 

and technical knowledge necessary 

to succeed in future careers. Our 

schools not only promote “Future 

Careers, Locally Grown” they support 

lifelong learning. Across the 

United States, nearly 12.5 million 

high school and college students 

are enrolled in CTE courses. CTE 

prepares these learners for the 

world of work by providing academic 

content, introducing workplace 

competencies, and exposing 

students to providing a hands-on 

context. The current 

high school graduation 

rate for CTE 

concentrators is about 

90 percent, which is 

nearly 15 percentage points higher 

than the national average. 

The San Luis Obispo County 

Office of Education established 

SLO Partners in 2014 to address 

college and career readiness among 

the county’s student 

population. SLO 

Partners’ mission is 

to engage business 

partners and educators 

in aligning 

workforce needs 

with career and college 

pathways and 

provide work experience 

opportunities 

to ensure that stu- 

“A dream doesn’t become a reality 

through magic; it takes sweat, 

determination, and hard work.” 

~Colin Powell 

dents have the skills and knowledge 

necessary for success in the 

workplace and businesses have the 

skilled workers required for a sound 

growing economy. SLO Partners is 

committed to collaborating with 

local businesses and education for 

pathways to opportunity 

and skilled 

local talent. 

Templeton High 

School is one such 

example of a blossoming 

CTE program 

in our county 

that has built up 

their program pathways. 

Energy and 

Power Technology, 

taught by Jason Diodati, is one 

of the school’s most robust CTE 

programs. This pathway includes 

engineering, manufacturing and 

energy. Many CTE courses are 

dual-enrolled with Cuesta College, 

allowing high school students to 

earn college credit through their 

high school courses. The program 

fosters local participation 

with large businesses such as 

PG&E and smaller businesses 

such as Dale Evers Arts Studio. 

Programs originated through local 

efforts of the school districts, the 

San Luis Obispo County Office of 

Education and legislators. 

“The price of success is hard work, dedication 

to the job at hand, and the determination 

that whether we win or lose, we have 

applied the best of ourselves to the task at 

hand.” 

~Vince Lombardi 


THE NATURAL ALTERNATIVE 

NUTRITION CENTER 

HEALTHY AND NATURAL 

GIFT IDEAS! 

I absolutely LOVE the Christmas season! With the fun and excitement 

of the holidays, are you feeling overwhelmed with the endless list of things 

to do and plan? Let The Natural Alternative help you with some healthy 

holiday gift ideas and support YOU… so you don’t crash and burn! 

On the list of those you care for… put yourself at the top! Ashwagandha 

is a powerful adaptogen that can help keep you cool and calm when holiday 

madness hits! If you are feeling exhausted during the day and can’t 

shut off your brain at night, give this amazing herb a try! Ashwagandha 

has been shown to reduce cortisol levels (linked to belly fat and sleeplessness) 

in stressed-out individuals. Find the highest quality Ashwagandha at 

The Natural Alternative for the best results! 

CBD chocolates make great hostess gifts or stocking stuffers. If you 

have a loved one feeling anxious about having muscle and joint discomfort, 

our CBD drops or lotions would make special gifts. MENDER has great 

gift bags that include a pain and healing salve, body butter, lip balm and 

deodorant at a great price! 

Need a gift for a friend who is stressed out or someone who needs 

an energy boost? We have a wide assortment of high-quality essential 

oils including lavender for calming, rosemary to enhance your memory, 

citrus to boost your mood and lemon balm to encourage more restful 

sleep. Pair your favorite oils with a beautiful diffuser for yourself or a perfect 

gift! To introduce someone you love to the healing power of essential oils, 

we offer organic essential oil kits for gift giving. 

More stocking stuffer ideas include locally-made and handcrafted Aza 

Gar argan soaps with scents of lavender, lemongrass zinger, refreshing mint 

as well as a wonderful selection of nourishing lip balms. Be sure to stock 

up on our tasty, healing teas from Vanaspati of Cambria; offering organic 

herbal blends called Immune, Calm, Digest, Breathe, Inflame, Energy and 

Sleep! It’s always tea time! 

And remember, we have gift certificates so you can give the gift of health 

to the special people in your life! 

Feeling gratitude during this time of year, 

Bobbi Conner, CNC, CAN, MH 

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT 

CONSTITUTE DIAGNOSIS, PRESCRIPTION, OR TREATMENT AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE USED AS 

A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL COUNSELING WITH A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. 


TASTE OF PASO 

NO BOUNDARIES 

with Ginger 

Ginger is a spice that 

knows no boundaries. It 

can jump start your meal 

with an enthusiastic appetizer, add 

zest to your main course, and finish 

with a dessert that lingers on 

the palate. Transforming each dish 

into something completely different 

on the tongue, ginger has a 

magical way of adapting itself and 

delivering a unique quality all its 

own. 

Hot, spicy, energizing, healing... 

The story of ginger spans the 

globe, reaching countless cuisines 

and identifying classic dishes. 

Not only does ginger burst with 

flavor, it also is a powerhouse of 

By Lori Foster of Spice of Life 

healing benefits. 

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is 

native to tropical forests in southeastern 

Asia and is now grown 

widely around the world, from 

Hawaii to Africa, Australia and 

many other countries. Ginger 

grows underground as a horizontal 

stem, or rhizome, with beautiful 

green upright shoots reaching to 

the sun. Close relatives are turmeric 

and galangal which also grow as 

rhizomes. 

Warm, woody, peppery heat 

with tender sweetness jumps out 

at you as ginger mingles with other 

ingredients. Classic Asian dishes, 

Indian curries, Middle Eastern 

and European cuisines all crave 

the boldness of ginger. Complimentary 

flavors that marry well 

with ginger are garlic, lemongrass, 

chili, turmeric, citrus, cinnamon, 

cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and 

saffron to name a few. 

What would the holidays be 

without ginger? Gingerbread 

cookies, ginger snaps, and of 

course, pumpkin spice blends 

with ginger being a key ingredients. 

Try adding molasses to ginger 

cookies which gives a softer 

texture and almost caramel flavor. 

Sauteed, tender carrots with fresh 

shredded ginger and garlic or 

roast winter squash with a dusting 

of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg 

to bring about the warming 

flavors of winter. 

Not only does ginger taste delicious, 

the medicinal benefits are 

pretty impressive as well. 

Ginger is among the healthiest 

spices in the world with countless 

studies and reports throughout 

history showing effective results. 

Ginger’s ability to calm upset 

stomachs and motion sickness has 

been a comfort for many. It can 

also help relieve digestive problems, 

soothe morning sickness 

and nausea. During the cold and 

flu seasons, ginger is the perfect 

spice to keep on hand to combat 

sickness. Strong anti-inflammatory 

properties help with arthritis and 

other conditions while offering a 

wide array of important vitamins 

and minerals. Natural remedies 

like ginger are a great alternative 

to reaching for over-the-counter 

medications for relief. Steeping 

ginger with peppermint and chamomile 

in a cup of hot water makes 

a great tea to help relax, calm and 

soothe the body. 

Visit Lori at Spice of Life at 1306, 

Pine St., Paso Robles, CA 93446 

for more information on seasonal 

spices and healthy recipes. 

BOARD CERTIFIED 

ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON 

FELLOWSHIP TRAINED 

IN SPORTS MEDICINE 

NOW ACCEPTING 

NEW PATIENTS 

Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy, 

Sports Medicine, Fractures, Joint 

Pain and General Orthopedics 

 

 



EVENTS 

Find out where to see Santa 


NOTE: Events are chronologically 

listed. Readers are encouraged 

to call phone numbers 

listed to confirm scheduled 

events. There are many activities 

to choose from this holiday season 

from holiday boutiques to 

caroling to performances. Take 

a look to find the perfect fit, or 

fits, for you and your family. 

Atascadero 

Light Up the Downtown 

Holiday Celebration 

Atascadero’s Light Up the 

Downtown Holiday Celebration 

will take place Friday, November 

30. The Atascadero Art 

& Wine Tour will take place from 

5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets for the 

tour will be for sale the night of 

the event at City Hall or at Grape 

Encounters Wine Empourium for 

$20 per person. At 6 p.m., everyone 

will gather in front of City Hall 

for the lighting of Sunken Gardens 

and historic City Hall. Santa will 

arrive at 6:10 p.m. The Atascadero 

Fine Arts Academy Honor Choir 

will perform on the steps of City 

Hall. Free docent-led tours of City 

Hall will take place from 6:30 to 8 

p.m. along with free horse-drawn 

hayrides and Model-A firetruck 

rides and a visit with Santa and 

Mrs. Claus. For more information, 

go to VisitAtascadero.com. Go to 

AtascaderoChamber.org to purchase 

Art & Wine Tour tickets or 

call 805-466-2044. 

Cambria Christmas 

Market 

The Seventh annual Cambria 

Christmas Market will take 

place through Sunday, December 

23 on the grounds of Cambria 

Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton 

Drive in Cambria, at 5 p.m. every 

night except Nov. 26 and 27 and 

December. 3, 4 and 10 when 

the market is closed. The annual 

market offers a winter wonderland 

of colorful lights in addition 

to food, wine, live music, shopping, 

vendors and Santa’s House. 

Nightly shuttles are available at 

the Bramblest in East Village 

and Coast Union High School. 

The last shuttle to the market Musical Holiday Walk 

leaves at 8:15 p.m. The cost is $10, Around Atascadero Lake 

$15, $20 or $25 depending on the The 20th annual Musical Holiday 

Walk Around the Lake at 

night and children 10 and younger 

are always free. For more information, 

go to CambriaChristmas- from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Sat- 

Atascadero Lake will take place 

Market.com or call 805-927- urday, December 1. Hot cider, 

6109. Tickets must be purchased popcorn and other refreshments 

in advance online. 

will be available as attendees walk 

around the lake. There will be free 

entry into the zoo from 5:30 to 

8:30 p.m. If there is steady rain 

prior to or during the event, some 

of the street activities may be 

canceled. Bring a flashlight and a 

warm coat. For more information, 

go to AtascaderoLake.net or call 

805-550-3147. 

Morro Bay Lighted 

Boat Parade 

The 33rd annual Morro Bay 

Lighted Boat Parade will take 

place on Saturday, December 1 at 

6 p.m. at the waterfront. The procession 

of decorated Christmas 

Los Osos 

skiffs, yachts, fishing boats, cutters, 

sailboats and kayaks will begin at 

6:30 p.m. Go to MorroBay.org for 

more information. 

Cayucos Christmas 

Tree Lighting 

Cayucos Christmas Tree Lighting 

will take place on Sunday, December 

2 at 5 p.m. at the corner 

of Ocean Avenue and D Street. In 

addition to the tree lighting, there 

will also be caroling. For more information, 

call 805-995-1200 or 

go to CayucosChamber.com. 

11 a.m. and 4 p.m. and Sunday, 

December 9 at 12:30 and 5:30 

p.m. at Templeton Performing 

Arts Center. Tickets are $29 

for adults and $24 for children 

12 and younger and seniors 

62 and older. An open dress 

rehearsal and student night will 

take place Thursday, December 

6 at 7 p.m. The cost is $10 

and a canned food donation for 

students and $25 for adults. For 

more information, email info 

@ncdpaf.org. To purchase tickets, 

go to ncdpaf.org. 

Christmas Parade 

The 31st annual Los Osos 

Christmas Parade will take place 

Saturday, December 8 from 

10 a.m. to noon. The parade will 

follow Los Osos Valley Road 

from Fairchild Way to the park 

at Palisades Avenue. There will 

be a pre-parade pancake breakfast 

sponsored by the Bay Osos 

Kiwanis at Bay Auto & Tire. 

For more information, go to lobp 

chamber.org. 

Christmas in Cayucos 

The 10th annual Christmas in 

Cayucos will take place Saturday, 

December 8 at participating 

merchants along Ocean Avenue. 

It is a merchant open house 

with free horse-drawn carriage 

rides, children’s activities, tree 

lighting, strolling carolers and a 

visit from Santa. For more information, 

call 805-995-1200 or go 

to CayucosChamber.com. 

Winter Wonderland 

in Atascadero 

Atascadero Winter Wonderland 

will take place on Friday, 

December 7 from 5 to 9 p.m in 

downtown Atascadero from Traffic 

Way to West Mall and from El 

Camino Real to Lewis Avenue. 

The event will have snow slides, 

snow piles, food, crafts, entertainment, 

Santa Claus, bounce houses Holiday Magic 

and food and craft vendors. The 

event is sponsored by the City of 

Atascadero. Go to Atascadero.org 

or call 805-470-3360 for more information. 

‘Nutcracker’ ballet 

in Templeton 

"The Nutcracker" ballet will take 

place on Friday, December 7 at 

7 p.m., Saturday, December 8 at 

at Charles Paddock Zoo 

Zoo Holiday Magic at Charles 

Paddock Zoo in Atascadero will 

take place between 10 a.m. and 

1 p.m. on Saturday, December 

15. The annual event offers a 

chance to deliver special gifts to 

animal friends. For more information, 

go to Atascadero.org or call 

the zoo at 805-461-5080. 


Christmas Parade and 

Craft Faire in San Miguel 

San Miguel Christmas Parade 

and Craft Faire will take 

place Saturday, December 15 at 

6 p.m. The parade will conclude 

a full day of fun. The children’s 

carnival and street fair begins at 

2 p.m. There will also be a chili 

cook-off, silent auction, drawings 

and other activities. Stop by the 

fire station after the parade to see 

Santa and enjoy hot dogs and refreshments. 

For more information, 

call Mike Sanders at 805-712-9120 

or go to discoversanmiguel.com. 

Living Nativity 

in Templeton 

A Living Nativity will take place 

on the lawn at Templeton Presbyterian 

Church, 610 South Main St. 

in Templeton, Friday, Dec. 14 and 

Saturday, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. and 

Sunday, Dec. 16 at 5:30 and 7 p.m. 

The entire event is about 30 minutes 

but arrive early as seating is limited 

and dress warmly. Call the church at 

805-434-1921 with any questions. 


Health & Wellness 

THE WELLNESS KITCHEN 

AND RESOURCE CENTER 

1255 Las Tablas Rd., Templeton. Visit thewkrc. 

org, 805-434-1800 for information on Healing 

and Wellness Foods meal programs, volunteer 

opportunities, and classes. 

The Wellness Kitchen suffered a loss when 

an electrical fire damaged the building 

they leased in Templeton. They are moving 

to a temporary location. 

Please check their website for info, and 

support them through this transition with 

a tax-deductible donation! 

theWKRC.org 

CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY 

1051 Las Tablas Road, Templeton provides 

support, education and hope. 805-238-4411. 

Cancer Support Helpline, 888-793-9355, 6 

a.m.-6 p.m. PST. 

Visit cscslo.org for description of support 

groups, social events, education and kid’s 

programs. 

The office will be closed from Monday, December 

24, 2018 through Tuesday, January 1, 2019. 

SPECIAL PROGRAMS: 

December 5: Life Beyond Cancer, 11:30 a.m.; 

Art Time with Katie, 1:30 p.m.; 

December 12: Young Survivors Peer Gathering, 

6 p.m. in Templeton; Kids Art Time, 6 p.m.; 

December 13: Advanced Cancer Support 

Group, 11 a.m.; 

December 14: Education: Winter Well-Being, 

12 p.m.; 

December 20: Breast Cancer Support Group, 

12 p.m. 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE: 

MONDAY: Therapeutic Yoga at Dharma Yoga, 

11:30 a.m.; 

TUESDAY: Educational Radio Show, 1:00 p.m.; 

WEDNESDAY: Living with Cancer Support 

Group —Newly Diagnosed/Active Treatment, 

10 a.m.; 

FRIDAY: 12/7 & 12/14-Grupo Fuerza y Esperanza, 

6 p.m. 

Healthy Lifestyle — Navigate with Niki-Thursdays 

by appointment, call 805-238-4411; 

Cancer Well-Fit® at Paso Robles Sports Club, 

Mondays and Thursdays 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., 

pre-registration is required with Kathy Thomas 

at kathythomas10@hotmail.com or 805-610- 

6486.; Beautification Boutique offers products 

for hair loss and resources for mastectomy 

patients (knittedknockers.org). 

SUPPORT & ENCOURAGEMENT 

Take Off Pounds Sensibly — every Monday, 

6:30 p.m. at Community Church of Atascadero, 

5850 Rosario,, basement room. 805-466-1697 

or visit tops.org 

North County Overeaters Anonymous — every 

Monday, 5:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 

Fireside Room, 940 Creston Rd., Paso, OA.org. 

MOPS — Mothers of Pre-schoolers — first & third 

Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 940 

Creston Road, Paso, Ashley Hazell, 805-459-6049, 

nocomops@gmail.com. 

Chronic Pain Support Group — CRPS third Tuesdays, 

5 to 6 p.m. at Rabobank, 1025 Las Tablas Rd, Templeton. 

Contact Suzanne Miller 805-704-5970 or email 

suzanne.miller@ymail.com. 

North County Parkinson’s Support Group — third 

Tuesday, 1 p.m. at Templeton Presbyterian Church, 

610 So. Main St. Info: Rosemary Dexter 805-466-7226. 

Overeaters Anonymous Atascadero — every Thursday, 

6:30 p.m. at California Manor, Past the Lobby and 

follow the signs, 10165 El Camino Real, Atascadero. 

Contact Irene 818-415-0353. 

North County Prostate Cancer Support Group — third 

Thursday, 7 p.m. at Twin Cities Community 

Hospital Pavilion Room. Bill Houston 805-995-2254 

or American Cancer Society 805-473-1748. 

Lupus/Auto Immune Disorder Support Group — fourth 

Saturday, 10:30 a.m. at Nature’s Touch, 225 So. Main 

St., Templeton. 

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPS 

Sponsored by Hospice SLO, 805-544-2266, hospiceslo.org 

Bereaved Parents Group — Tuesdays, 5:30 to 7 p.m. 

Suicide Bereavement Support - fourth Wednesdays, 

3 to 4:30 p.m. 

Meetings at RISE – Visit in person at 1030 Vine St., 

Paso Robles or call 805-226-5400 

General Grief Support — Wednesdays, 5 to 6:30 p.m. 

at 517 13th Street, Paso. No cost, no pre-registration. 

GriefShare — Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the 

Fireside Room at Trinity Lutheran Church 940 Creston 

Road, Paso Robles. 


Don’t 

miss 

another 

Let us find the best option for 

moment. your personalized eye care needs 

Our optometrists are experienced in providing 

the best pre- and post- operative care for 

your cataract and lasik surgical needs. 

Schedule your appointment 

online now at www.oca2020.com 

Paso Robles | 805-238-1001 

1112 Vine St 

Los Osos | 805-528-5333 

2231 Bayview Heights Dr 


Chambers of Commerce 

Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce 

pasorobleschamber.com • 805-238- 

0506 

1225 Park St, Paso Robles, CA 93446 

Office Hours with District Supervisor 

John Peschong — third Thursday, 9 

to 11 a.m., Paso Robles Chamber of 

Commerce Conference Room. Contact 

Vicki Janssen for appointment, 

vjanssen@co.clo.ca.us, 805-781-4491 

Office Hours with Field Representative 

for Senator Bill Monning — third 

Thursday, 2 to 4 p.m., Paso Robles 

Chamber of Commerce Conference 

Room. Contact Hunter Snider for appointment, 

805-549-3784 

Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce 

Restaurant of the Month Appreciation 

— first Tuesday, time/location 

TBA, pasorobleschamber.com 

December 12 — Membership Mixer, 

5:30 to 7 p.m., Hosted by Community 

West Bank, 541 Spring St., Paso 

Robles. 

Atascadero Chamber of Commerce 

atascaderochamber.org • 805-466- 

2044 

6907 El Camino Real, Suite A, 

Atascadero, CA 93422 

December 6 — Women in Business: 

Holiday Fashion Show, 11:30 a.m. to 

1 p.m. at SpringHill Suites by Marriott, 

900 El Camino Real, Atascadero. 

Register at atascaderochamber.org 

December 20 — Business Mixer: Pacific 

Premier Bank, 5:30 to 7 p.m., 

7480 El Camino Real, Atascadero. 

Templeton Chamber of Commerce 

templetonchamber.com • 805- 434- 

1789 

321 S. Main Street #C, Templeton, 

CA 93465 

Chamber Board of Directors Meeting 

— 4 to 5:30 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday 

of the month. Pacific Premier 

Bank Conference Room on Las Tablas 

Blvd. 

December 8 — “A Night in Narnia” 

Christmas Tree Auction and Dinner, 

5:30 to 10 p.m., BarrelHouse 

Brewing Company, 3055 Limestone 

Way, Paso Robles. Templeton 

non-profits invite you to this black 

tie gala to advance their mission 

through donations raising awareness 

for their causes. Registration 

required for this event through 

templetonchamber.com. 


LAST WORD 

By Millie Drum 

e have a master wood craftsman and 

a kind, thoughtful man in our midst: 

David Bouillez. He is a Key Grip/Gaffer in the 

film business and enjoys creative woodworking 

during his downtime. What makes David’s 

talent even more special is his poignant, tangible 

way of expressing his appreciation and sympathy 

to the families of men and women who 

have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country 

and fellow citizens — The Memory Box. 

The gift of a Memory Box honors 

a life given in service to others; 

allowing parents, relatives and 

friends to treasure the memory 

of those they’ve lost. 

The inspiration for the Memory Box Project 

followed a somber evening TV news report on 

the casualties in the war in Afghanistan. David 

wanted to do something for the grieving families. 

Initially, he was inspired to use his woodworking 

and design talent to create keepsake 

boxes for the families of fallen soldiers. The 

project has since expanded to include firefighters, 

peace officers and first responders who have 

given their lives in service to others. A Memory 

Box is a special gift meant to be passed down 

through the generations. To date, 275 Memory 

Boxes have been shipped nationwide. 

David’s childhood friend, Natalie Probert 

Kurtz says, “David is one of the finest. I’m proud 

of his talent. I’ve sponsored a few Memory Boxes 

and I hope others can find the means to donate 

to this fine cause. It brings some closure to families 

as they go through the healing process.” 

“When I get a call or a thank you note from 

a family, it’s such a great feeling to know I’m 

doing something for someone and that they 

really appreciate it,” says David. 

The demand is exceeding the donations, 

especially as the holiday season approaches. 

To sponsor a Memory Box, donations in any 

amount are appreciated to cover the cost of 

materials, shipping and the growing demand. 

The cherry wood used is salvaged and reclaimed 

whenever possible. Every box is handcrafted 

with tongue and groove solid joinery 

and machine engraved with the fallen hero’s 

name and personal information. The brilliant 

pewter handles are made by Notting Hill 

Decorative Hardware in Wisconsin; replicating 

the Iris flower; symbolizing the meeting of 

heaven and Earth. 

Fallen Soldier Memorabilia Boxes, Inc. is a 

501 (c)(3) tax-exempt, nonprofit corporation — 

EIN: 46-2166640, that relies on donations from 

individuals, businesses and foundations. As the 

holiday season is particularly poignant for families, 

join David in showing your respect and gratitude 

by donating or fully sponsoring one or more 

Memory Boxes. Tax-deductible donations can be 

mailed to Fallen Soldier Memorabilia Boxes, Inc., 

179 Niblick Rd., #439, Paso Robles, CA 93446 or 

online at memoryboxproject.org. Click ‘DONATE’. 

To host a fundraising event or help in any way, 

contact David at 805-221-5087 (Shop) or 415- 

806-9064 (Cell) or Pat at 805-239-1372. Email, 

contact@memoryboxproject.org. 

Honoring a Fallen Soldier 

THE MEMORY BOX POEM 

“How does one choose what it will hold? 

For future stories to be told? 

A letter, a ribbon, a picture or two? 

How do I choose the memory of you? 

You were so brave — right to the end. 

You weren’t just a soldier. 

You were my best friend. 

There’s so much to tell of the life you had. 

Your courage and strength 

— so much could be said. 

To honor your memory is easy to do. 

I place inside here sweet memories of you. 

Your legacy lives on for others to see. 

A medal, a letter? Inside it will be. 

How does one choose what this box will hold 

— for future stories to be told?” 

Written by the proud mother of Fallen Soldier 

SGT Amanda Older-Downing 

May 30, 1986 – January 11, 2011 

DIRECTORY TO OUR ADVERTISERS 

A Beautiful Face............................. 47 

Adelaide Inn Worship Directory... 49 

Adrienne Hagan............................ 39 

Advanced Concrete 

& Construction............................. 37 

AM Sun Solar................................. 33 

Amdal Transport............................ 21 

Anna & Mom................................. 29 

Awakening Ways........................... 21 

Bella Jule Designs......................... 29 

Bijou............................................... 29 

Blake’s True Value.......................... 43 

Bridge Sportsmen Center............. 39 

Brookdale Senior Living................ 31 

Brooklin Oaks Pharmacy............... 36 

Cal Sun Electric & Solar................. 27 

California Holistic Institute............ 27 

California Mid-State Fair................ 51 

Central Coast Medical Aesthetics.. 11 

Chalekson, Dr. Charles.................. 37 

Cider Creek Bakery........................ 32 

City of Paso Robles-REC................ 09 

Community West Bank................. 15 

Cone & Associates.......................... 19 

Connect Home Loans.................... 33 

Country Florist............................... 42 

Covenant Presbyterian.................. 48 

Cuesta College.............................. 24 

Dignity Health Med Plus............... 16 

Edwards Barber Shop.................... 34 

Esthetics by Jensen....................... 19 

Estrella Warbirds........................... 20 

Farron Elizabeth............................. 29 

First Baptist Church....................... 46 

Foss Electric.................................... 23 

Friends of Library........................... 45 

Funky Wonderland........................ 29 

Gallagher Video Services.............. 39 

Gallegos Garage Door Service...... 48 

General Store Paso Robles............ 34 

Golden Hills Farm......................... 17 

H.M. Holloway............................... 23 

Hamon OHD.................................. 37 

HDH Construction......................... 48 

Hearing Aid Specialists 

of the Central Coast..................... 03 

Hearing Solutions......................... 47 

Heart to Heart RE........................... 21 

Heather Desmond Real Estate...... 07 

HFG Coastal Insurance Service..... 47 

Hope Chest Emporium................. 29 

Kaitilin Riley DDS.......................... 39 

Klockenteger, Lisa......................... 25 

Koker’s Tree & Demo Service......... 19 

Kuehl Nicolay................................. 45 

Lansford Dental............................. 05 

Las Tablas Animal Hosp................. 41 

Lera Butterfield Platinum 

Properties..................................... 25 

Lube N Go...................................... 47 

Main Street Small Animal 

Hospital........................................ 18 

Mary Ann Austin............................ 48 

Michael’s Optical........................... 34 

Natural Alternative........................ 41 

New with Tags................................ 42 

North County Dance and 

Performing Arts Foundation........ 43 

Nose to Tail..................................... 47 

Odyssey World Cafe...................... 39 

Optimetric Care Associates........... 47 

Pacific Trust Mortgage................... 36 

Paradigm Advisors........................ 10 

Paso PetCare.................................. 35 

Patterson Realty - Paso Robles...... 02 

Perfect Air....................................... 25 

Photo Stop..................................... 23 

PR Chamber of Commerce........... 19 

PR District Cemetery..................... 23 

PR Golf Club.................................. 31 

PR Handyman............................... 42 

PR Insurance.................................. 37 

PR Main Street Assoc..................... 12 

PR Safe & Lock............................... 25 

PR Waste........................................ 52 

Red Scooter Deli............................ 25 

Reverse Mortgage 

Professionals ............................... 43 

Robert Fry, M.D.............................. 42 

San Luis Obispo County 

Office of Education...................... 40 

Senor Sanchos............................... 14 

Sixteen Twenty............................... 29 

Solarponics.................................... 38 

Spice of Life................................... 43 

Stanislaus, Dr. Maureeni............... 38 

Stein’s BBQ.................................... 35 

Susie’s Dog Grooming.................. 33 

Ted Hamm Ins............................... 35 

Templeton Door & Trim................. 32 

Teresa Rhyne Law Group............... 48 

The Art Works................................. 33 

The Auto Bahn............................... 19 

The Blenders.................................. 33 

The Carlton Hotel........................... 10 

The Laundromat............................ 37 

The Loft........................................... 39 

Tooth & Nail Winery....................... 31 

Trinity Lutheran Church................. 23 

Twin Cities Hospital....................... 04 

Voice of Paso.................................. 39 

Western Janitor Supply................ 39 

Whit’s Turn Tree Service................. 27 

Whitehorse.................................... 17

2018 December Paso Robles Magazine

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