Fourth annual showcase draws crowd, awards top local performers, and raises over $2,500 for Atascadero Printery restoration
ATASCADERO — On Friday, Aug. 8, the Atascadero Printery Foundation hosted the fourth annual “North County Has Talent” showcase, bringing together an enthusiastic audience, gifted performers, and a shared passion for preserving one of Atascadero’s most treasured historic buildings.
Under the warm summer sky, more than 120 people filled the Printery Outdoor Stage area to cheer on nine diverse acts. From singers and dancers to unique variety performances, the evening was a lively celebration of creativity. The all-ages event featured two categories — youth (15 and under) and adults — with cash prizes awarded to the top acts in each.
In the youth division, Wanda Kennard took home first place and the $200 prize, impressing both the audience and the judges with her standout performance. In the adult category, Jacy Miller earned first place and $400, while Morgan McEntire captured second place and $200. Dianne and Wally Greenaway rounded out the winners with a third-place finish.
Event organizers say the combination of beautiful weather, talented contestants, and strong community turnout made the evening a resounding success.
“Thanks to our directors, Julz Muya and Karen Harris, Sound Engineer George Westlund, and our nine great entries, it was a wonderful evening at the Printery Stage,” said Karen McNamara, president of the Printery Foundation.
The night wasn’t just about entertainment — it was also about making a difference. Between ticket sales, concessions, generous donations, and commemorative brick purchases for the stage wall, the foundation raised more than $2,500.
“Funds raised from the show will go directly to the Red Tag Removal fund,” McNamara explained. “Specifically to help pay for the restoration of the Print Studio/Museum room that is now underway.”
Atascadero Mayor Charles Bourbeau sponsored the evening’s cash prizes, while several local businesses and organizations contributed as event sponsors, including Paso Robles Pizza Kitchen, Waste Management, Mechanics Bank, Bovino Vineyards, Fableist Wine Co., Landsby Wines, Eberle Winery, Wild Fields Brewery, and Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
Founded to save and restore the Printery, the Atascadero Printery Foundation has worked for years to transform the 1915 building into a vibrant cultural hub. Events like “North County Has Talent” help fund crucial renovations while bringing residents together for a good cause.
The showcase also served as a reminder that the fun is far from over at the Printery stage. The next event will feature June Clivas and the Honey Buckets alongside Caltucky on Friday, Aug. 22, at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 and available through My805Tix.
For more information about the foundation, upcoming events, or how to contribute to the restoration, visit atascaderoprintery.org
