Additional Articles

• Six-month women’s leadership program begins this Fall

  SAN LUIS OBISPO — A six-month women’s leadership program, focused on inspiring, equipping and empowering women to reach their full potential begins this fall. The program is designed for emerging leaders, managers and entrepreneurs looking to develop essential skills to maximize their impact and build strong professional connections. Through monthly half-day sessions, each of the 16-person cohorts will gain essential skills to transform their leadership and grow their influence.

  2 weeks ago

• Highway 58 resurfacing project East of Santa Margarita continues with traffic control for barrier work

  COUNTY — A project to resurface 24 miles of Highway 58 from six miles east of Santa Margarita near State Route 229 to the Navajo Creek Bridge continued Saturday, July 20 through Saturday, July 27.

  1 month ago

• Striping project resumes this week on Highway 46 East

  COUNTY — A project to replace the roadway striping and pavement markers will resume on Highway 46 East beginning Tuesday, July 9 in the following locations: Motorists will encounter lane closures in both directions on Hwy. 46 East from the US 101 Interchange to East of Airport on Tuesday, July 9 during the overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.

  1 month ago

• Dominguez Fire damages one home in its path

  CALIFORNIA VALLEY — A vegetation fire in California Valley damaged a home on June 14, Cal Fire San Luis Obispo County reported. At 12:13 p.m., Cal Fire San Luis Obispo units responded to the fire that was held to 15 acres and 80% contained. Firefighters were able to stop the spread, while also battling the structure fire.

  2 months ago

• Highway 1 paving between Harmony and Cambria begins next week

  COUNTY — A project to resurface the pavement on Highway 1 from just north of Harmony Valley Road to Cambria Pines Road will begin on Monday, June 10. Motorists will encounter alternating lane closures with flaggers Sunday night through Friday morning from 8 p.m. until 6 a.m. Construction will also take place Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Fridays from 7:30 a.m. until 2 p.m.

  2 months ago

• Highway 46 East striping improvement project begins next week

  COUNTY — A project to replace the roadway striping and pavement markers began on Highway 46 East on Sunday, June 2. Motorists will encounter lane closures in each direction of Highway 46 East from west of Lucy Brown Road to the Kern County Line Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight hours between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. Motorists can expect minimal delays during this roadwork.

  2 months ago

• Conference on supporting gifted children set for May 4

  SANTA BARBARA — The Central Coast’s only conference on supporting gifted children will be held at La Colina Junior High School in Santa Barbara on Saturday, May 4, from 8:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. The event, coordinated by the Tri-County GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) Council and The Knox School of Santa Barbara, will focus on embracing all sides of gifted children — from Academic to Social and Emotional to Intellectual needs. “The gifted population is often underserved in our culture, and this conference was created to support the adults who are charged with providing for these children and their unique needs,” said Dr. Angela Tanner, Founder of The Knox School of Santa Barbara. “The conference tagline is All Means All because supporting a gifted child in a way that leads them to thrive means that all of their diverse needs must be addressed.”

  3 months ago

• HWY 58 resurfacing project East of Santa Margarita resumes

  COUNTY — A project to resurface 24 miles of Highway 58 from six miles east of Santa Margarita near State Route 229 to the Navajo Creek Bridge resumed on Wednesday, May 1. Motorists will encounter one-way reversing traffic control from near the Junction with State Route 229 to east of Shooting Star Road Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. and on Friday and Saturdays from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Delays should not exceed 15 minutes. Motorists will also encounter a striping operation next week during the daytime hours within the project limits.

  3 months ago

• Pothole repairs on SR 41 north of HWY 46E begin next week

  COUNTY —A project to repair potholes on Highway 41 from north of the Highway 46 East Interchange to the San Luis Obispo/Kern County line will begin on Monday, May 6, and continue through Thursday, May 9. Motorists will encounter one-way reversing traffic control with a pilot car on State Route 41 from 7:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. This highway maintenance project will resume on State Route 41 beginning Monday, May 13 through Wednesday, May 15. Motorists will encounter traffic control from 7:30 a.m. until 3 p.m.

  3 months ago

• Smaller York project is greenlit

  Months of debate and neighborly recrimination over a project designed to grow food-grade medical cannabis on a ranch seven miles west of “Downtown Templeton,” on Highway 46, came to a close March 26 as lawyers, consultants and San Luis Obispo County Supervisors worked out a deal. Representatives and consultants for the project applicant, Laura Gardner, and of property owners Frank Ricigliano and Sue Sullivan, repeatedly emphasized the scaled-down nature of the project as being one-seventh of the original size. What’s more, they said, the project — once approved in September 2018 before appeal by resident Ian McPhee — had already been proven to meet every aspect of the County’s land use ordinance.

  4 months ago

• Carbajal announces 2019 Congressional Women of the Year Award

  SANTA BARBARA — In honor of Women’s History Month, Rep. Salud Carbajal (CA-24) announced his Congressional Women of the Year honorees and opened nominations for the next year. This award was created as an opportunity to celebrate the inspiring women throughout the 24th District who, through work or volunteerism, have gone above and beyond to positively impact our community.

  4 months ago

• HWY 1 paving project near Cuesta College began March 25

  COUNTY — A project to grind and resurface northbound Highway 1 from North Education Drive to the San Luis Creek Bridge began on Monday, March 25, weather permitting. Motorists will encounter alternating lane closures on Highway 1 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. and during the overnight hours from 8 p.m. until 7 a.m. Delays are expected to be minimal. Electronic message boards will be activated to inform the public about this roadwork. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) will be present to ensure a safe environment for everyone.

  4 months ago

• Enter the Fair in 2019: Still Exhibit registration is open, handbooks available

  PASO ROBLES — The Still Exhibit Competition Handbooks are now available online. Still Exhibits include departments like Fine Arts, Flowers, Farm Art, Home Arts, Photography and Produce. New this year will be the separation of Adult and Youth handbooks and registration. Registration is open for all departments and entering online is quick, fast and easy when you go to www.midstatefair.com/fair/. Don’t be late as the deadline to enter is Tuesday, June 11, for all departments except for Ag Horticulture and Floriculture which is Tuesday, July 9.

  4 months ago

• 2019 Women of Distinction Award recipients announced

  SAN LUIS OBISPO — Cuesta College and The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County’s Women’s Legacy Fund announce the recipients of the 2019 Women of Distinction awards. Five outstanding Central Coast women are recognized for their professional and civic contributions. Honorees are nominated by their peers and chosen by a selection committee.

  4 months ago

• Bank of the Sierra awards $25K in grants to non-profits in coastal markets during fourth quarter

  PORTERVILLE — Bank of the Sierra announced Monday that $25,000 was given to seven nonprofits in the bank’s coastal markets during the fourth quarter. The bank awards $1,000-$5,000 grants to 15-20 non-profit organizations each quarter as part of its Sierra Grant program. Overall in the fourth quarter, Bank of the Sierra awarded a total of $59,000 to non-profits in eight counties it serves. RISE San Luis Obispo County will use a Sierra Grant to support participation in Camp HOPE America. This camping and mentoring program offers healing to children and adults who have been impacted by family violence. Grant funds will pay for accommodations, meals, and programs for several campers, counselors, site coordinators, and more.

  5 months ago

• Charges filed against CMC escapee David Grayhall

  SAN LUIS OBISPO — David Gregory Grayhall, 26, who escaped from the California Men’s Colony (CMC) on Oct. 30, 2018, was charged with escaping custody, vehicle theft, and having a prior violent under the three-strikes law, according to the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office. Grayhall was serving a five-year sentence at CMC after a conviction in Los Angeles County. Grayhall fled the prison while on work duty and stole one of the facility’s vehicles for his escape. The stolen van was located in Los Angeles, where several family members of Grayhall reside. After further investigation by California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) and CMC staff, Grayhall was peacefully apprehended in Los Angeles on Nov. 16, 2018.

  5 months ago

• Dedication ceremony for Dr. Gilbert H. Stork Gym

  SAN LUIS OBISPO — A special dedication ceremony for the Dr. Gilbert H. Stork Gymnasium was held on Saturday, Feb. 2, at Cuesta College’s San Luis Obispo Campus. In July of 2018, the Cuesta College Board of Trustees approved the naming of the Gymnasium (Building 1400) as the Dr. Gilbert H. Stork Gymnasium to honor the 50-plus year legacy of Gilbert H. Stork, upon his retirement as Superintendent/President of Cuesta College. The naming recognizes the depth and breadth of Stork’s work and his unique contributions to support student success, which began in the athletic department. “Dr. Stork is the longest-serving employee in Cuesta College’s history and is commended for his untiring and selfless commitment to higher education, to Cuesta College, and to the San Luis Obispo County community,” said Board of Trustees Vice President Dr. Barbara George.

  5 months ago

• County public libraries celebrating 100 years

  COUNTY — County of San Luis Obispo Public Libraries are celebrating their 100th anniversary this year. To celebrate, County Library branches have a full calendar of centennial programs and events. Here are some highlights: A special edition Centennial Library Card was released in January and will be available through the end of the year or while supplies last. Patrons can pick up one of these commemorative cards and open a new account or link the card to their current account. The Library has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to purchase a grave marker for San Luis Obispo’s first librarian, Margaret Milne. Milne currently lies in an unmarked grave in the San Luis Cemetery. The link to the GoFundMe page is: https://www.gofundme.com/slo039s-first-librarian-lies-in-an-unmarked-grave

  5 months ago

• SB 1: Caltrans allocates $54.8 million to transportation improvements

  SACRAMENTO — Caltrans announced Friday, Feb. 8, the California Transportation Commission allocated $54.8 million for 46 projects throughout California including $31.1 million for fix-it-first projects funded by Senate Bill 1 (SB 1), the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. This funding will allow Caltrans to repair or replace 16 bridges, 168 lane miles and 150 drainage systems statewide. In addition, 248 congestion reducing elements will be installed, including highway message signs, cameras and loop detectors to improve traffic flow. “As a new year begins, we continue our commitment to improve California’s highways, providing drivers with a smoother ride,” said Caltrans Director Laurie Berman. “SB 1 is not only allowing us to fix our highways and local roads, but it is also reducing congestion, which allows residents and visitors to get where they need to go more safely and reliably.”

  5 months ago

• Local programs and area agencies are looking for volunteers

  COUNTY — Put your life experience to work with Senior Volunteer Services and Central Coast Community Volunteers. Join many seniors, age 50 and over, who are taking the time to help improve the lives of others. SVS and CCCV can match your talents and interests with community needs. Call SVS at 805-544-8740 for information on any of the following opportunities. RSVP — Retired and Senior Volunteer Program 55-and-older Estrella Warbirds Museum & Woodland Auto Display — looking for volunteers that love aircraft (old & new) and old cars. You might enjoy joining our family of volunteers as a docent. Little training is necessary and lots of knowledge is available in Paso Robles. Senior Peer Counseling — The Senior Peer Counseling program at Wilshire Community Services trains volunteers age 55+ to provide free in-home supportive counseling to seniors. Peer Counselors offer skilled listening and guidance to help older adults navigate the ups and downs of aging.

  6 months ago

• SLO County Regional Airport sets new passenger record

  COUNTY — The San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) saw 485,911 passengers come through its doors in 2018. The amount is 19.2 percent higher than 2017’s 407,696 passengers, and sets the record for the most annual passengers in the airport’s history. United Airlines enforced its position as the airport’s largest carrier, adding a second daily flight to Denver and bringing in larger planes on existing routes in 2018. With a total of ten daily flights to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Denver, the airline flew 279,326 passengers last year. American Airlines, which flies four flights a day to Phoenix, carried 158,780 passengers; Alaska Airline’s daily flight to Seattle carried 47,805. October was the airport’s best month of the year, as 46,514 total travelers passed through the terminal.

  6 months ago

• County studies fire protection services in special districts

  COUNTY — The County of San Luis Obispo presented a study to the Board of Supervisors on Jan. 15 that evaluated the fire protection services of certain special districts in SLO County. The report described the challenges to sustainability, and impact to the County and County Fire Department if one, or more, special district elects to discontinue providing fire protection services. At the Board’s direction, District 1 Supervisor John Peschong and District 2 Supervisor Bruce Gibson will work together in an ad-hoc capacity to evaluate steps moving forward and report back to the Board at a future date.

  6 months ago

• Atascadero Warming Center needs you

  ATASCADERO — Homeless in North County need your help. We are looking for volunteers who can chaperone at our Warming Center to help provide people who are suffering from homelessness a warm, safe place to sleep. The Warming Center is located at Dove Creek Church of the Nazarene and is typically open nights when the temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit or when it’s raining. We need two chaperones per shift—There are two shifts per night—7 p.m. to 1 a.m. and 1 a.m. to 7 a.m. The Center provides a warm, safe place from the elements during the winter months with a nice dinner meal, breakfast, and a bag lunch for the next day. There are typically 24 -28 people at any given night.

  6 months ago

• 2019 Burn season opens for fire hazard reduction

  ATASCADERO — Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services has officially opened the Fire Hazard Reduction Burn Season. A reminder that the burn day status, whether it is a permissive burn day or not, changes daily and is determined by the California Air Resources Board and north county weather conditions. Residents must obtain the daily burn day status by calling 805-461-5070, Option 8. Atascadero Fire and Emergency Services strongly encourages residents to utilize alternative forms of disposal, such as the Waste Alternatives’ Green Waste recycling container or the Chicago Grade Landfill. Burning should be used as a last resort.

  6 months ago

• It’s not too late to save on property taxes

  COUNTY — San Luis Obispo County Assessor Tom Bordonaro Jr. would like to remind all homeowners, disabled veterans and eligible non-profit organizations that they may file claims for property tax exemptions. The Homeowner’s Exemption exempts up to $7,000 in taxable value of a property if the claim is timely filed (or postmarked by Feb. 15,) and up to $5,600 if filed late (postmarked by Dec.10, 2019). If you received your Homeowner’s Exemption last year, and you still own and occupy the same property this year, you do not need to file again. Your exemption automatically remains in place.

  6 months ago

• Flu activity is increasing in SLO County

  COUNTY — As influenza activity increases nationwide and in San Luis Obispo County, the County Public Health Department reminds residents to take common-sense precautions to protect themselves and the community from the flu. This reminder follows a recent increase in local laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza and the death of one San Luis Obispo County resident from complications of the flu. The resident was over age 60 and had several underlying conditions that make people more vulnerable to severe complications of influenza.

  6 months ago

• A vehicle crashed into a power pole, closes SR41 for most of the day

  ATASCADERO — A vehicle collision at Old Morro Road on Jan. 24 caused State Route 41 to be closed for most of the day, according to Caltrans. At about 3:21 a.m. a solo driver in a 2015 Mazda 3, collided with a power pole on Highway 41. The driver of the vehicle sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Where he was treated and released.

  6 months ago

• Templeton School District looks at $300K in cuts

  Some $300,000 in budget cuts expected to be enacted in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 budget years have been a long time coming, said Templeton Unified School District Superintendent Joe Koski. That doesn’t mean they’re happy about having to make the reductions, he added, but it does eliminate the appearance of a crisis, which other nearby districts have recently experienced. Sheldon Smith, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services for San Luis Obispo County’s Department of Education concurred noting his department was, “Confident that Templeton will be able to make required cuts and meet their obligations,” as they’ve been checking in with the TUSD’s budget progress five times a year.

  6 months ago

• County begins preparations for 2020 Census

  COUNTY — The County of San Luis Obispo will receive funding to support outreach efforts for the 2020 U.S. Census and help ensure a complete, fair and accurate count locally. On Tuesday, Jan. 15, the County Board of Supervisors supported the County’s participation in the Census and accepted $100,000 in funding for the County’s participation. County staff will convene a Complete Count Committee of representatives from cities, schools and local community organizations to develop a strategic plan for regional activities to increase the census response rate and assist in implementing that plan.

  7 months ago

• Smart911 now available in San Luis Obispo County

  COUNTY — The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office announced on Wednesday, Jan. 9 that Smart911 is now available in San Luis Obispo County. Smart911 is a free service that allows individuals and families to sign up online to provide key information to 9-1-1 dispatchers during an emergency. Smart911 allows the public to create a Safety Profile at www.smart911.com for their household that includes any information they want 9-1-1 and response teams to have in the event of an emergency. When a citizen makes an emergency call, their Safety Profile is automatically displayed to the 9-1-1 dispatcher, allowing them to send the right response teams to the right location with the right information.

  7 months ago

• Critical hospice volunteers needed for local patients

  COUNTY — Community volunteers are needed to provide in-home companionship and respite care to hospice patients in San Luis Obispo County and the Santa Maria Valley, according to Central Coast Hospice. Central Coast Hospice has been providing medical and social services to those with a terminal diagnosis in all of San Luis Obispo County for over seven years. Volunteers are an important part of the program. They provide supervision to patients while their family caregivers take a break or run errands, assist with light household tasks, provide emotional support and socialization, and help with miscellaneous, yet important tasks — like organizing family photos or helping the patient write letters to their loved ones.

  7 months ago

• Spring classes begin Jan. 22 at Cuesta College

  COUNTY — Cuesta College’s spring semester begins Jan. 22 and students can continue signing up for classes through Feb. 3. Classes are still available in many areas including art, English, foreign languages, music, and more. Also offered are free Emeritus College non-credit courses for lifelong learners. Open classes may be viewed by clicking here. New this spring are several student services initiatives. This January, Cuesta College is opening two new Dreamer Centers at the San Luis Obispo and North County campuses to support undocumented students and their families. The centers are made possible through a grant awarded to Cuesta College by the California Catalyst Fund — a private funding source focused on creating equitable opportunities for student learning at institutions of higher education. The college is one of 32 campuses throughout California that received support from the grant.

  7 months ago

• Work on southbound US HWY 101 on Cuesta Grade begins this week

  COUNTY — The No. 2 (middle) and No. 3 (right) lane of southbound US 101 will be closed from the top of Cuesta Grade to south of Old Stagecoach Road beginning Wednesday, Jan. 23 at 9 a.m. until Thursday, Jan. 24 at 5 a.m., weather permitting, according to Caltrans. These lane closures will allow Caltrans to repair the roadway where a sinkhole is developing. This roadwork will also include the removal and replacement of a failed drainage culvert beneath those lanes. Motorists should expect to slow in this construction zone and anticipate delays not to exceed 15 minutes.

  7 months ago

• Public input is needed to move forward on county housing ordinance

  COUNTY — The San Luis Obispo County Department of Planning and Building is asking for the public’s input as the department works on updates or amendments to the Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance (Public Review Draft), formerly known as the Secondary Dwelling Ordinance. Under direction of the Board of Supervisors, Planning and Building staff are working on Phase II of an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance to encourage development by removing unnecessary barriers. As part of this effort, the County has reviewed existing restrictions and limitations on secondary dwellings throughout the unincorporated areas of the County and has released the Accessory Unit Ordinance Public Review Draft.

  7 months ago

• Libraries offer fine amnesty in January

  COUNTY — It’s time to pull out that long overdue library book because January is Fine Amnesty Month for County of San Luis Obispo Public Libraries. Regardless of how overdue an item is, all County Library branches will waive all overdue fees, clearing the account for checkout of new materials. Fine forgiveness does not apply to fees charged for lost materials, however.

  7 months ago

• County seeks public comment on inclusionary housing fees

  COUNTY — San Luis Obispo County Department of Planning and Building is seeking public comment on amendments to the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance and Affordable Housing Fund. Under direction from the SLO County Board of Supervisors, the Department of Planning and Building has been working on a 3-year pilot program that would raise between $2 to $4 million per year in local funding for affordable housing. These funds will be awarded to non-profit developers to build affordable housing in the County. As part of the pilot program, the Board authorized the Department of Planning and Building to modify the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance and Affordable Housing Fund. The Inclusionary Housing Ordinance requires new housing developments to either include a percentage of affordable units or pay “in-lieu” fees into the County’s Affordable Housing Fund.

  7 months ago

• City of Atascadero’s Planning Commission and Citizens’ Sales Tax Oversight Committee application deadline extended

  ATASCADERO — The City of Atascadero is currently seeking to fill two positions on the Planning Commission and two positions on the Citizen’s Sales Tax Oversight Committee. All applicants must be residents of the City of Atascadero. Completed applications will be accepted in the City Clerk’s office until Friday, Jan. 11, at 5 p.m. Those interested in applying for either the Planning Commissions or the Citizens’ Sales Tax Oversight Committee (CSTOC) may obtain applications on the City’s website homepage at www.atascadero.org under the “Latest News” section; in person at City Hall located at 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero; or by calling the City Clerk’s Office at 805-470-3400.

  7 months ago

• Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust invests in Big Brothers Big Sisters of SLO County

  SAN LUIS OBISPO — The Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust awarded a grant of $20,000 to Big Brothers Big Sisters in support of the agency’s school-based youth mentoring programs. With this $20,000 gift, their total contributions in support of the agency’s school-based mentoring programs amount to $140,000 since 2012. The school-based program pairs high school and college students with elementary students for weekly supervised group and individual activities taking place at elementary school sites. The program creates an exceptional bond between at-risk children and older students who have volunteered to support them. A group of carefully selected high school and college student mentors travel to their partner elementary school once each week for the entire school year.

  7 months ago

• Local 4-H Youth Program seeks volunteer camp director for Camp Wahoo!

  SAN LUIS OBISPO — 4-H in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties is still looking for a volunteer camp director to coordinate the 2019 4-H summer camp, Camp Wahoo! Camp Wahoo! is expected to take place at Camp Yeager in Cambria from July 28 to 31. Camp Wahoo! 4-H summer camp is an experience that is fun for both youth and adults. Generally, a weeklong residential camp experience for Camp Wahoo! campers ages 9-13. The 4-H camp director would work closely with the 4-H Office to coordinate and put on the camp for both San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. It is scheduled to take place, but if a camp director position is not filled by Jan. 15, the camp will, unfortunately, need to be canceled for 2019.

  7 months ago

• YPNG rolls the dice for Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Luis Obispo County

  SAN LUIS OBISPO — The Young Professionals Networking Group (YPNG) presented Big Brothers Big Sisters with a $5,200 check from the proceeds of its annual Monte Carlo night. The Casino Royale themed event was held in the Venetian Room at the Madonna Inn. Tatiana Mendoza, former Big Brothers Big Sisters program director and YPNG treasurer says, “Big Brothers Big Sisters is one of our community partners, who we fundraise for through several events each year. This year Big Brothers Big Sisters was the beneficiary of our Monte Carlo event because we wanted to help the agency serve more children. We were able to fundraise enough to serve four match relationships for one year.”

  7 months ago

• More than $600M in funding approved for transportation infrastructure, rail and projects

  STATE — Caltrans announced Monday that the California Transportation Commission (CTC) allocated more than $600 million in funding for hundreds of transportation projects, which includes $80 million from SB 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. “Caltrans will focus on repairing and rehabilitating the state highway system by improving pavement, bridges, culverts, and intelligent transportation systems, which are included in the performance requirements of SB 1, to improve transportation for all of our residents and visitors, no matter their mode of transportation,” said Caltrans Director Laurie Berman.

  7 months ago

• General Assistance program updated to reflect community needs

  COUNTY — Each year, the program helps an average of 650 community members meet basic needs while they pursue employment or long-term disability benefits. This is the first major update in 25 years. On Nov. 6, the Department of Social Services took a resolution to the Board of Supervisors to update guidelines for the County’s General Assistance program. The General Assistance program is a last resort to support indigent County residents who have no other available means of support. This program was established in San Luis Obispo County in February of 1993 and has not had any major program updates in the 25 years since it was established.

  7 months ago

• Bomb threat hoax throughout SLO County and nationwide

  COUNTY — The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, along with a number of law enforcement agencies nationwide, received reports on Thursday, Dec. 13, of a bomb threat being emailed to various entities, primarily businesses. Usually included in that threat was an extortion demand for money in the form of bitcoin to avoid the detonation of the bomb. As of this time, all of these threats have proven to be unfounded, according to officials.

  7 months ago

• Atascadero hosts Mental Health Services Act town hall meeting

  ATASCADERO — The County’s Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) programs and plans will be the focus of a town hall presentation and meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 18 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Atascadero’s Community Library, Polin Community Room, 655 Capistrano Ave. The event is open to the public and will provide an overview of the MHSA, including programs operating in the South County. The meeting will be facilitated by Behavioral Health’s Prevention and Outreach Division Manager, and MHSA Coordinator, Frank Warren, and will include presentations on a variety of community-based programs. The meeting will also provide information on current planning and funding, as well as invite community members to identify issues which may need to be addressed in the future.

  8 months ago

• Waste Management offers Christmas tree recycling after holidays

  ATASCADERO — After the holiday festivities are over and residents start to look forward to the coming year, Waste Management encourages customers in the City of Atascadero to recycle their tree through its curbside collection program. Waste Management will collect trees for residents in the City of Atascadero from Dec. 26 through Jan. 12 on customers’ scheduled collection day. When placing trees on the curb for collection, customers should follow these guidelines: Remove all decorations including tinsel, lights, ornaments, tree stands; flocked trees cannot be recycled please do not place in green waste cart Cut trees into 3-foot pieces and place inside the green waste cart

  8 months ago

• Atascadero’s Downtown Parking and Business Improvement Area returns

  ATASCADERO — The new Atascadero Business Improvement District (ABID) Committee and the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce announced the return of funding in the Downtown Parking and Business Improvement District, which will be utilized for new and improved parking areas, downtown wayfinding and streetscape improvements, beautification projects, events and promotions. The Downtown Business District will be funded by a special annual assessment collected with business license applications and renewal fees from businesses located within the improvement area.

  8 months ago

• Residential and Agricultural Burn permitting resumes

  COUNTY — The burn permit suspension in San Luis Obispo County was lifted on Saturday, Dec. 1. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) San Luis Obispo Unit Chief Scott Jalbert formally canceled the burn permit suspension and advised that those possessing current and valid agriculture and residential burn permits can now resume burning on permissible burn days only. Agriculture burns must be inspected by Cal Fire prior to burning until the end of the peak fire season. A valid permit from the Air Pollution Control District is also required for all burning, allowed only on permissive burn days. Inspections may be required for burns other than agriculture burns. This can be verified by contacting the Air Pollution Control District.

  8 months ago

• Holiday business mixer at Pacific Premier Bank

  ATASCADERO — The holiday Business Mixer at Pacific Premier Bank is a festive event for business leaders to connect and build relationships. The Business Mixer will take place Dec. 20, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Pacific Premier Bank in Atascadero. Holiday decorations will adorn the inside of the bank for the attendees. While chamber members connect, they can enjoy appetizers and refreshments. La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant and John Hernandez-Borjan will be serving treats. Vintage Cowboy Winery and Bristols Cider House will be pouring drinks. Lights and music will be taken care of by Medina Light Design.

  8 months ago

• Deadline approaching for Cal Fire grants to reduce fire threat and improve forest health

  SACRAMENTO — The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection announced the availability of up to $ 155 million for Fire Prevention and Forest Health projects. Cal Fire is soliciting applications for projects that will help prevent catastrophic wildfires and restore forest health while also sequestering carbon and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Cal Fire’s Fire Prevention Grants Program will provide funding for local projects that address the risk of wildfire and reduce wildfire potential to communities in, and adjacent to, forested areas. Qualified activities include hazardous fuel reduction, fire planning, and fire prevention education with an emphasis on improving public health and safety.

  8 months ago

• Learning through Lynda.com offered at local county libraries

  COUNTY —All County of San Luis Obispo Public Libraries are now offering cardholders free access to online educational courses from Lynda.com. Now owned by LinkedIn, Lynda.com has been the leading provider of online learning content for 20 years. The service has more than 12,000 courses, ranging from computer programming to project management including instruction on various computer software, programming languages, and business topics. The video courses are taught by industry experts and are designed for any skill level. Lynda.com also offers more than 50 different learning paths to help users stay ahead in their current job or change careers.

  8 months ago

• Wilshire Community Services is looking for RSVP volunteers

  COUNTY —Wilshire Community Services trains volunteers to assist isolated older adults all over San Luis Obispo County, but they are currently experiencing a shortage of volunteers in North County areas. Would you be willing to provide some simple daily activities such as friendly visits, transportation help, groceries, and errands, or pet walking?

  8 months ago

• Fire breaks out in Atascadero residence

  ATASCADERO — A fire Wednesday, Nov. 14, evening displaced people from a Sycamore Road residence, the Atascadero Fire Department reported. At 4:45 p.m. on Nov. 14, the call came in that there was a structure on fire on Sycamore Road. At approximately 4:51 p.m. units arrived on scene and found a single story, metal structure, converted into a residential unit, ablaze. The metal structure, wood fence, an automobile, and vegetation caught on fire too per officials.

  9 months ago

• Templeton students are invited to compete in a T-shirt design contest

  TEMPLETON — Templeton Recreation is inviting local students to compete in a T-shirt design contest. The winning drawing will become the 2018 logo for this year’s Jingle All the Way 5K Fun Run and Walk on Saturday, Dec. 8. All designs must be completed by a resident of Templeton or student of Templeton schools who are under the age of 18. Submissions will be accepted through Tuesday, Nov. 20, with the winner being announced Tuesday, Nov. 27.

  9 months ago

• RTA awarded $6.2M DOT grant for new facility

  SAN LUIS OBISPO — The San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority (RTA) received a $6.285 million grant on Sept. 25 to help fund the construction of a new administration and bus maintenance facility. “I am very appreciative of the partnerships that it took to procure the land for the new administration and maintenance facility, and this project would never have happened without the support of SLOCOG, CAPSLO and the City and County of San Luis Obispo,” said Geoff Straw, Executive Director of RTA. “This grant is a significant step forward in developing a long term solution for the RTA’s needs.” The grant comes as a result of the Federal Transit Administration Buses & Bus Facilities Infrastructure Investment Program, which makes federal resources available to states and direct recipients to replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses and related equipment and to construct bus-related facilities. The FTA received 255 applications for this grant and SLORTA received the largest amount in the State of California.

  9 months ago

• Weed abatement funds examined

  The weed abatement actions typically cost $37,000 in staff time, not counting the $24,000 spent on noticing and inspection before crews are needed, Rickard said. The report prepared by the City’s Fire and Emergency Services staff notes that the Fire Marshal conducts an initial weed inspection during the month of April of the approximately 11,188 parcels within the City, with notices then mailed to those deemed a potential threat.

  10 months ago

• Fire threatens homes on Creston Road Sunday

  CRESTON — Several small fires broke out in the afternoon along Creston Road on Sunday, Sept. 2, according to Cal Fire San Luis Obispo. One of the fires at Creston and Neal Springs Road threatened houses and homes had to be evacuated. One vacant and abandoned home was fully involved in the blaze and destroyed, according to Chris Elms with Cal Fire SLO. “Engine companies were very quick to mitigate the threat to the houses,” Elms said. The fire was contained later in the evening before 8 p.m. and evacuated residents from the area were let allowed back into the home.

  11 months ago

• Recovery program seeking home in North County

  A home for victims of human trafficking is looking for a permanent location in North County.

  11 months ago

• Atascadero name spikes after wedding

  Atascadero’s best and worst kept secret saw the town’s name popping up in international tabloids and spiking in Google search alerts Wednesday, Aug. 29 as news broke that singer-songwriter Neil Young and actress Daryl Hannah held a “secret wedding” involving a reception in the City the weekend before.

  11 months ago

• SB 10: Reaction to bail reform

  California Gov. Jerry Brown signed on Tuesday, Aug. 28, sweeping legislation, in the works for several years, to eliminate cash bail in the state. Set to take effect in a little over a year, October 2019, Senate Bill 10, which passed with a California Senate vote of 26-12 on Aug. 21 bred unusual bedfellows in opposition.

  11 months ago

• Templeton Library Association hosting book giveaway Sept. 1, 2 and 8

  The public is invited to attend a book giveaway on Saturday, Sept. 1, Sunday, Sept. 2 and Saturday, Sept. 8 at the Book Room Annex located at 65 S. Main St., Ste. 102 (kitty-corner from Templeton Donuts).

  11 months ago

• CalVet Tuition Fee waived for eligible veteran dependents

  SACRAMENTO — California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) offers a College Fee Waiver Program for eligible veteran dependents. The CalVet College Tuition Fee Waiver for Veteran Dependents benefit waives mandatory system-wide tuition and fees at any State of California Community College, California State University, or University of California campus.

  1 year ago

• Local programs and agencies are looking for help

  COUNTY — Put your life experience to work with Senior Volunteer Services and Central Coast Community Volunteers. Join many seniors, age 50 and over, who are taking the time to help improve the lives of others. SVS and CCCV can match your talents and interests with community needs. Call SVS at 805-544-8740 for information on any of the following opportunities.

  1 year ago

• FDA issues voluntary recalls of Ritz, Goldfish and other products

  WASHINGTON — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is working with Mondelēz International, Inc., Pepperidge Farm Inc. and Flowers Foods, Inc. and have initiated voluntarily recalls of certain products due to a potential risk that one of the ingredients may have been contaminated with Salmonella. Recalled foods include a variety of Mondelēz’s Ritz cheese sandwiches and Ritz Bits cheese products, certain Pepperidge Farm’s Goldfish, and Flowers Foods’ Swiss Rolls sold under various brand names. Additional information about each specific recall is available on the FDA website at fda.gov/safety/recalls/. The FDA recommends people discard or return any recalled product to the store where it was purchased.

  1 year ago