Honoring those impacting the North County, including Rick Evans, Pure Yoga and Wellness, Ulloa Wines, and Troop 51

ATASCADERO — At the heart of every thriving community are the people and businesses that dedicate their time, passion, and resources to making it a better place. Their contributions shape the character and strength of North County, fostering a sense of belonging and resilience. Each year, the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations whose dedication embodies the very best of our region. From preserving local history to fostering wellness, breaking barriers, and instilling lifelong values, this year’s honorees — Citizen of the Year Rick Evans, North County Business of the Year Pure Yoga and Wellness, North County Latinos in Business Ulloa Wines, and Community Organization of the Year Troop 51 — reflect the spirit and commitment that make North County an exceptional place to live and work.

Citizen of the Year: Rick Evans

The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce has named Rick Evans the 2025 Citizen of the Year, an honor that reflects his lifelong dedication to the community. A lifelong Atascadero resident, Evans’ passion for photography has preserved the town’s history, making him a beloved and essential part of local life.

Evans’ journey into photography began in high school, inspired by a friend’s darkroom work. Over time, his camera became a tool for storytelling, capturing everything from historic landmarks to daily life in Atascadero. His images are now widely recognized, appearing in local publications, such as the Atascadero News and magazine, on newscasts, and across social media. His Facebook pages, such as “Atascadero Historical Society/Colony Heritage Center,” serve as digital archives, ensuring the town’s past remains alive for future generations.

Beyond photography, Evans’ contributions extend to his 20-year tenure as a custodian at San Gabriel Elementary, where he formed lasting bonds with students and staff. His deep community ties also stem from his background in music, having played in The Blackberry Ridge Band and continuing to perform at local events.

For Evans, this award is more than recognition — it’s a reflection of the town he loves and has spent his life documenting. His commitment to preserving Atascadero’s history through his lens, his dedication to his family, and his impact on the community make him truly deserving of this honor. As Citizen of the Year, Rick Evans represents the heart and spirit of Atascadero.

North County Business of the Year: Pure Yoga and Wellness

Pure Yoga and Wellness, founded by Karlie Higginbotham in 2021, has been honored as North County Business of the Year, a recognition of its profound impact on the community and dedication to holistic well-being. What started as a boutique yoga studio in Atascadero has evolved into a multifaceted wellness hub, offering a diverse range of movement classes, mindset coaching, and transformative retreats.

Higginbotham’s journey to entrepreneurship was marked by self-doubt, but with the guidance of mindset coach Jessica Otter, she overcame limiting beliefs and went on to earn her own certification in coaching and Timeline Therapy. In 2024, Otter merged her coaching business with Pure Yoga and Wellness, forming Pure Mindset, an expansion that deepened the studio’s commitment to personal growth and transformation.

Pure Yoga and Wellness stands out for its inclusive and accessible approach to well-being. It offers both infrared-heated and non-heated classes, ensuring a welcoming space for all fitness levels. Its wellness-inspired boutique, monthly sound baths, and corporate wellness programs further emphasize its mission to integrate self-care into daily life. Additionally, the studio actively gives back through its community sponsorship membership, The Pure Collective, providing reduced-cost services to those in need.

This award is a testament to Higginbotham and Otter’s unwavering dedication to fostering a space where individuals can heal, grow, and connect. It acknowledges not just their success in business, but their commitment to making wellness accessible to all. As Pure Yoga and Wellness continues to expand — with international retreats, festival collaborations, and growing corporate programs — this recognition underscores its role as a pillar of transformation and community in North County.

North County Latinos in Business: Ulloa Cellars 

The North County Latinas in Business award represents more than just recognition for Ulloa Cellars — it is a powerful affirmation of resilience, representation, and empowerment. For the founder, Nancy Ulloa, this milestone signifies the culmination of years of perseverance, learning, and breaking barriers in an industry where Latina voices are still emerging.

Ulloa’s journey into the wine world began with a deep personal transformation. After leaving an abusive relationship, she embraced a newfound passion for life, which led her to pursue winemaking in Paso Robles. Establishing Ulloa Cellars in 2019 was a leap of faith, one that required dedication, networking, and an unshakable belief in her vision.Ulloa overcame financial hurdles, sought mentorship, and self-educated on business strategies to build a brand that now boasts nine wines, with an expansion into a sister label, The Witch & The Warlock, in 2025.

Winning this award underscores the importance of representation in the wine industry. “I am humbled and excited because it means I am becoming a representation of a woman in a powerful role for young girls who look like me,” Ulloa shares. “I hope to show them that career opportunities are limitless.”

Her brand’s mission extends beyond winemaking; it is about making wine knowledge accessible, fostering inclusivity, and supporting fellow women entrepreneurs. Ulloa actively mentors others, proving that success isn’t confined to a traditional path. “You can create a career that fits your personality, budget, time, and passion. Show up as yourself, and the right people will show up for you.”

As Ulloa Cellars continues to grow, the award serves as a beacon of inspiration for the next generation of Latina entrepreneurs. Ulloa stands as a testament to the power of dreams, resilience, and the courage to redefine industries.

Community Organization of the Year: Troop 51

For nearly a century, Troop 51 has played a pivotal role in shaping young individuals into responsible, service-minded citizens. As Atascadero’s first Boy Scout troop, its foundation is deeply rooted in the values of Scouting America — formerly Boy Scouts of America — instilling leadership, integrity, and a commitment to community service. Being named Community Organization of the Year is a profound honor, recognizing Troop 51’s long-standing impact and dedication.

Service is at the heart of Troop 51’s mission. Through initiatives like Flags Across Atascadero, Wreaths Across America, and participation in Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies, the troop actively honors veterans and fosters civic pride. Eagle Scout projects, which range from building school equipment to improving public spaces, leave lasting benefits for the community and exemplify the troop’s commitment to service.

Troop 51’s Scout-led structure ensures that youth take charge of decision-making, guided by dedicated adult mentors who provide support without overshadowing their growth. This hands-on leadership experience equips scouts with essential life skills, resilience, and confidence that extend far beyond their time in the program.

The Atascadero community’s unwavering support has been vital to Troop 51’s success. From local businesses to the Knights of Columbus, this partnership strengthens the troop’s ability to serve. Receiving this award reaffirms the value of their contributions and inspires future generations to uphold these principles.

For Troop 51, service isn’t just an obligation — it’s a way of life. This award is a testament to their unwavering commitment, ensuring that the legacy of scouting continues to thrive in Atascadero for years to come.

As we celebrate the remarkable contributions of these community leaders, join us in celebrating the outstanding contributions of these community leaders at the Atascadero Chamber Gala on Saturday, April 5, at Rava Winery. For ticket information, visit atascaderochamber.org. This unforgettable evening will honor the dedication and hard work that make North County special. Be sure to read the full stories of this year’s awardees in the April issue of Atascadero News Magazine, highlighting their achievements and the lasting impact they have made in our community.