“There’s a calm only autumn brings the sea silver with morning light, the fishermen patient, the chill reminding you that beauty doesn’t need warmth to be felt.” - Unknown
Morro Bay and Cayucos
“Thanksgiving is the heart of autumn—a season when gratitude gathers like golden leaves, reminding us to slow down, savor the moment, and give thanks for the simple beauty of life.”
– Unknown
November on the Central Coast is a time when gratitude seems to linger in the air — a season marked not just by golden leaves and crisp mornings, but by a deep appreciation for where we live, work, and raise our families. From Paso Robles to Atascadero, San Miguel to Santa Margarita, Cayucos to Morro Bay, Los Osos, San Luis, and beyond, we are surrounded by beauty, community, and a shared sense of belonging. It’s easy to take for granted the rolling hills, the cool ocean breeze, the rhythmic waves, and the friendly faces we greet at our local markets, but this time of year reminds us to pause and simply give thanks — for the place we call home and the people who make it special.
As I reflect on this season of gratitude, I’m especially thankful for my incredible team — the heartbeat of everything we do. From our talented writers and photographers who capture the essence of this region, to our sales, administrative, and design crew who work tirelessly behind the scenes, their creativity and dedication make each issue shine. It takes countless moving parts to bring these pages to life every month, and I’m continually amazed by their passion for storytelling and commitment to our community. Together, we are more than a publishing team — we are a family that cares deeply about every story we share and every reader we reach.
This month if you’re looking for ways to embrace the season and support local artisans, don’t miss the Winter Faire & Juried Craft Show at Art Center Morro Bay on Nov. 6, from 12 to 4 p.m. This beloved annual event is the Art Center’s largest show of the year, transforming both galleries into a festive wonderland of handcrafted ornaments, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, textiles, and one-of-a-kind gifts. It’s more than just a shopping experience — it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the joy of giving. Whether you’re checking off your holiday list or searching for that meaningful treasure, you’ll find pieces that truly embody the warmth and spirit of the season.
And the festivities don’t stop there! Mark your calendars for the SLO CAL Open at Morro Rock, happening Dec. 4–7, at 200 Coleman Drive. This World Surf League event brings together top surfers from around the globe to compete against the stunning backdrop of The Rock — a thrilling reminder of how lucky we are to live in a place where natural beauty and world-class talent collide.
Then, kick off the holidays with the Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration on Dec. 5, at Morro Bay City Park. Festivities begin at 3:30 p.m., with the lighting of the tree at 5 p.m. Bring your loved ones, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy the sparkle of the season as the community gathers to welcome the holidays together.
As we look back on the year — the blessings, the challenges, and the growth — I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you, our valued readers and advertisers. You inspire us to keep telling the stories that connect, celebrate, and uplift this incredible place we call home. From all of us at Morro Bay Life, thank you. May your November be filled with warmth, gratitude, and joy.
Hayley Mattson, Publisher hayley@13stars.media
Through
Print making communities better
By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life
The City of Morro Bay has a new city engineer, who comes into the job with a lot of experience and with a lot on the department’s plate.
Public Works Director Greg Kwolek recently announced the hiring of Nate Stong for the position, replacing Cindy Cecil. Stong started with the city Sept. 29, and comes with a ton of experience in both private and public service.
Kwolek said he selected Stong from a pool of four candidates who went through a “comprehensive interview process that included interviews with city staff.”
“Nate brings a wealth of engineering and municipal project
City hires Nate Stong as new head engineer
experience to the city, and I’m excited for him to lead up our engineering team,” Kwolek said. Stong will oversee a department with five other full-time employees. The main focus is the town’s infrastructure and a lengthy list of capital projects. The Engineering Department, “manages traffic issues, encroachment permits, development reviews, and over three dozen active capital projects,” Kwolek said. “One of our City Council’s main priorities is implementation of our capital projects, and Nate’s 23 years of experience as a civil engineer and 6 years of experience as a city engineer makes him well poised to help the city improve and maintain our critical infrastructure, such as our harbor, roads, and utility systems.
“His expertise and confident decision making align with the Department’s current needs. I am thrilled for Nate to come on board to develop a vision for city infrastructure in collaboration with the City Council, Public Works Advisory Board, and the Morro Bay community.”
Stong earned a degree in civil engineering from Cal Poly and worked over 10 years with cities and counties, including Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo, Placerville, and SLO County.
He also has 13 years of experience in the private sector “working on projects involving flood control, drainage analysis and design, as well as traffic and transportation engineering projects.”
Stong said he’s glad to be here.
“I’m thrilled to join the City of
MORRO BAY
Central Coast SurviveOars win National Championship
The Central Coast SurviveOars won the the 500 meter, 200 meter and 2000 meter races, earning the opportunity to compete at the 2026 International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) Club Crew World Championships in Hualien, Chinese Taipei. The crew of 15 men and women, all cancer survivors, trained together for six months to prepare for the race. They are all paddlers on the
Morro Bay and be a part of the team entrusted to help shape and protect this unique and beautiful California coastal city,” he said. “I look forward to advancing public works and private development projects, which directly enhance residents’ quality of life. It’s a chance to make meaningful community impact through solving problems and helping people.”
He’ll have a hand in a lot of what the city does for its citizens and visitors now and in the future.
The city’s capital projects, Kwolek said, include water and sewer, storm drain and flood control, pavement management, sidewalk repairs, harbor, parks, and other projects.”
He will also head up an effort to change the way the engineer-
ing department does its job.
Stong “will also be finalizing an update to the City’s engineering standards as well as development of long-term capital planning and prioritization,” Kwolek said.
Among the larger issues is the finalization of the recycling portion of the Water Reclamation Facility Project, and the eventual dismantling and redevelopment of the old sewer treatment plant on Atascadero Road.
And his experience with flooding could come in handy in Morro Bay, especially in the area of Main Street around Morro Creek that has repeatedly flooded in past large winter storms.
Stong’s salary, according to the current City Salary Schedule under the “unrepresented management” employee cate-
bee. “Our dragon boat community continues to grow, and we are proud to have teams from this small community win major competitions.”
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, a perfect time to celebrate survivorship. Six of the National Champions on the SurviveOars crew are breast cancer survivors. Breast cancer survivors are a driving force behind the growth of dragon boat racing, since a study in 1997 proved that participation in the sport provides multiple benefits after cancer treatment. The benefits include reducing the risk of developing lymphedema, and improvement in both physical and
gory, will fall somewhere between $59.49 an hour or $123,000 a year at Step 1 and $72.31/hr or $150,400 a year at Step 5, plus a full benefits package. Cecil, the previous city engineer, had been with the city since April 1, 2024. Kwolek did not say why she left.
emotional health. Many dragon boat races feature All Cancer Paddler and Breast Cancer Paddler divisions, in addition to age-based and genderbased divisions.
Dragon boat racing is the fastest growing water sport in the world, with teams in more than 60 countries. The Central Coast Dragon Boat Association was formed in Morro Bay in 2014 to create a community of dragon boat teams for all levels of competition, and to support cancer survivors in the sport. Everyone is welcome; find out more at CCDBA.org
NATE STONG
By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life
Two decades of environmental work in SLO County rescuing sick and injured marine mammals is in jeopardy of ending, as the Marine Mammal Center finds itself looking for a new home, with eviction notice in hand.
The MMC has operated a triage center located on the Morro Bay Power Plant property since 2005, when former plant owner, Duke Energy North America, essentially gave a lease to the Sausalito-based MMC for a small unused plot of land.
The triage facility covers all of SLO County’s beaches, responding to reports from the public that come in when people encounter seals and sea lions that have stranded themselves on shore or floating docks in harbors.
The animals are in obvious distress, many suffering from shark attacks or more commonly, domoic acid poisoning, a naturally occurring ailment that’s found in some types of algae.
The algae is eaten by shellfish, filter-feeding animals, and baitfish — anchovies and sardines — which in turn are eaten by marine mammals, who sit higher up the food chain.
When a call comes in, a team of trained volunteers responds to first evaluate the animal and
Marine Mammal Center rescuers seek new home
then, if needed, gently capture it with as little trauma as possible.
The animals are taken back to the Morro Bay facility where a veterinarian examines them, and starts treatment.
The idea is to stabilize the critters and if necessary they are transported to the MMC’s hospital in Sausalito or its other Central Coast treatment facility in Moss Landing.
The program has worked well over the past 20 years saving thousands of these animals and returning them to the wild. But all could come to an end by the end of next year, after the current plant owners, Vistra, notified them they would not have their $1-per-year lease renewed after the end of 2026.
Vistra also notified the Pacific Wildlife Care, which has its own wildlife rehab facility right next door to the MMC. It too had to find a new home but thanks to a generous donation of a piece of land out by the County Airport in rural SLO, PWC is now building a new modern wild animal rehab facility and will soon have a new permanent home for its important work.
PWC mostly cares for sick, injured or abandoned birds at its facility but also treats mammals that come in. It too is largely run by volunteers.
MMC Chief External Relations Officer and former CEO Dr. Jeff Boehm, DVM, explained their situation and
the search for a new home with Morro Bay Life.
“We have operations up and down the coast,” Boehm said. Their facility at Moss Landing and Morro Bay are similar in both the work they do and the situation they find themselves in.
Moss Landing is also on a power plant property owned by Vistra and they too have been given notice.
“There have been changes to both Moss Landing and Morro Bay sites,” Boehm said. “Vistra let us know that we need to find different locations. First in Moss Landing and then Morro Bay about a year later.”
When Duke had the Morro Bay plant (and Moss Landing too), it was still in operations, though finding itself called upon less and less by the state.
The 1950s-’60s era plant had become obsolete. Duke tried to replace it with a modern plant but ran into a wall of opposition at every turn eventually abandoning the $800 million project without ever getting a full permit.
Since then the plant has changed hands a couple of times through sales and corporate mergers, finally falling into the hands of Texas-based Vistra. The company shut it down permanently in 2014.
Seeking to take advantage in a major shift in the state’s energy policies toward renewable, carbon-free power generation,
Vistra has been trying for several years to build a Battery Energy Storage System, or BESS, plant on the site of an old fuel tank farm, but it too has slammed into a brick wall.
And last January, a massive fire broke out at Vistra’s BESS facility at the Moss Landing Power Plant, destroying a plant that’s half the size of the one it wants to build in Morro Bay.
No one was reported injured in the Moss Landing fire, but the devastation and fear it caused has turned many people, including lawmakers who were all for it before, to hesitate if not outright oppose having big plants like this built near residential communities.
Whether or not Vistra moves ahead with its BESS in Morro Bay would seem to be a long shot at best now, especially after voters approved a zoning ordinance change that requires a vote of the people to approve needed zoning changes on the property. Also, the City Council has passed ordinance prohibiting any “grid-sized” battery facility from being built within the city limits.
Vistra can still apply for permits through the State Energy Commission under a special 2022 law, but going around the will of local residents and the local government, would be difficult.
Whatever happens with Vistra’s project, the Marine Mammal Center still has to move. “We have 15 months — by the end of 2026,” Boehm said. “We’ve found that the ‘sweet spot’ is Morro Bay.”
That’s because of the town’s central location within the county and convenience for volunteers to muster and respond to beaches to both the north and south.
“Where we’re located matters,” Boehm said. “Morro
Bay is wonderfully centralized.”
Management has been searching for over a year now for a new home, including in Avila Beach, and in Morro Bay where they approached the city about the old teen center on Atascadero Road.
That one-time miniature golf and arcade business, which the city picked up in a bankruptcy sale and operated as a teen center for several years until COVID shut it down, sits vacant and largely unused, its two mini golf courses long since removed. They can’t really look inland too far, as they need the cooler climate of the coast for the animals. “With the heat in the summer it becomes inappropriate” for the animals, Boehm said.
One relatively new possible location has arisen — the Cayucos Sanitary District’s sewer treatment plant on Toro Creek Road. That relatively new facility sits on farmland about a mile inland from Highway 1. And the CSD Board thinks its an interesting idea and instructed the
staff to further talk with the MMC.
They did have a few concerns, mostly to do with available space and design, wishing anything that gets formally proposed to match the treatment plant’s “ranch-style” design. Dr. Boehm said their presentation in August was well-received. “They said ‘Tell us more,’” he explained. In the official minutes from that August board meeting, “The Board directed staff to assist in The Center’s efforts in evaluating the feasibility of the site.” The interim general manager is leading the discussions.
CSD Interim GM Will Clemens told MBL that the ball is mostly in the Marine Mammal Center’s court.
“Most of the follow through has been on the shoulders of the Marine Mammal Center so far,” Clemens said. “Our board is supportive of their efforts and believes this could be a great long-term partnership as we both care for the long-term health of the Estero Bay and the
Trained volunteer responders from The Marine Mammal Center rescue a sick California sea lion suffering from domoic acid poisoning at Avila Beach on Aug. 6, 2024. Photo courtesy The Marine Mammal Center
Rare opportunity for investors, developers, or boutique builders to secure approximately half an acre (.54 acres / 23,632 sq. ft.) in the heart of Morro Bay with prime build-out potential.
Two separate lots, next to a City Park, plus the possibility of acquiring an adjacent abandoned city street, creates room for an expanded development footprint. The 1930s residence offers 3,242 sq. ft. across two units, each with separate electric and gas meters. The main home includes 2 bedrooms and 2 baths with sweeping views of the bay and Morro Rock, while the secondary unit enjoys south-facing vistas across the park and waterfront.
Known locally as The Red House, the property is crowned by the storied crow’s nest, one of Morro Bay’s most recognizable architectural features. Whether redeveloped or preserved as a private estate, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity blending history, views, and exceptional potential on California’s Central Coast.
485 MORRO AVENUE | MORRO BAY, CA 93442
life that inhabits it.”
MMC is eyeing about an acre of the CSD’s property, on a parcel that contains a solar energy farm that powers the plant. There appears to be plenty of space and Dr. Boehm said their needs are few — fresh water, sewer service and room for a building with utilities and holding pens. They don’t need access to ocean water, and Dr. Boehm said they do not need space for a therapy pool for the animals.
“People assume we’ll have pools,” Boehm said. “This would be a stabilization center. They don’t need to be in the water. We do need water to mist
them and keep them cool, but there would be no pools in this facility.”
Animals that need further or longterm care will still be shipped up to their Sausalito facility.
Cayucos has wanted to recycle its triple-treated wastewater that currently discharges into the ocean. The ultimate goal is to pipe the water over the hill to the Whale Rock Reservoir, where all of Cayucos gets its drinking water. There could be a use for the water at a new Marine Mammal Center facility.
“It should be feasible for the new facility to tie into the existing potable water system and sewer system at the WRRF [treatment plant], which would eliminate the need for drilling another well,” Clemens said. “It
creation in our City.”
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
Chick-fil-A eyes Atascadero for new location
A new Chick-fil-A restaurant may soon be coming to Atascadero. A concept plan has been submitted for review for a location near the north end of the city within the Home Depot shopping center, close to the corner of El Camino Real and San Ramon Road, adjacent to SpringHill Suites Hotel.
The proposed site offers convenient access for residents and travelers along the Highway 101 corridor. While still in the early stages of the city’s development review process, the proposal signals continued interest from nationally recognized businesses in expanding local dining options and economic investment.
“Atascadero continues to attract strong interest from quality businesses, and we’re excited about the potential addition of Chick-fil-A to our community,” said City Manager Jim Lewis. “A project like this not only enhances local dining options but also supports continued economic growth and job
also may be feasible to utilize recycled water for much of the MMC operational needs.”
The presentation to the CSD Board said the new facility would need about 18 units of water a month, or about 13,500 gallons.
But water usage could vary quite a bit depending on how busy the facility is. And that’s dependent on the health of the marine environment. Things can get pretty busy around here.
Giancarlo Rulli, an associate director of public relations for MMC, told Morro Bay Life that they “regularly have over 100 individuals in San Luis Obispo County [but with high variability year to year depending on ocean conditions] with primary species
Updates on the project and opportunities for public input will be shared as the review process moves forward. For more information, visit atascadero.org
San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office seeks donations for 36th annual Christmas Bicycle Giveaway
The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office is once again seeking donations for its 36th annual Christmas Bicycle Giveaway, part of the long-running Season of Sharing program that has provided bicycles and helmets to children in need since 1989. The program relies on community generosity to provide refurbished bicycles and new helmets to children up to age 15. Donations of new bicycles, new helmets, or monetary contributions for parts are being accepted. While adult bicycles are welcome, children’s bikes are in the highest demand.
Bicycles are repaired at the Sheriff’s Office Honor Farm, where incarcerated individuals assist in refurbishing the bikes, gaining valuable work experience and a sense of community contribution.
Families wishing to nominate a child for a bicy-
being California sea lions, southern sea otters, northern elephant seals, harbor seals, Guadalupe fur seals, and northern fur seals.
“For example, last year, the Center’s operations in the county responded to more than 200 marine mammals in a three-month span alone [July-September], mostly California sea lions, impacted by a severe outbreak of domoic acid poisoning,” Rulli said.
Boehm is hopeful they can work out a deal with the CSD board and re-establish their operations basically within about 6 miles of the current site. But if they can’t, the Center is open to speaking with private landowners that might be interested.
While their current situation at
cle must submit an application by Thursday, Nov. 20, at slosheriff.orgunder Community Resources, then Forms and Applications. The Christmas Bicycle Giveaway will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 9 a.m.
Donations can be dropped off at any Sheriff’s Office patrol station or at the Honor Farm on Highway 1. Monetary contributions can be mailed to: Sheriff’s Advisory Foundation
Attn: Bicycle Fund
P.O. Box 3752
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
The Sheriff’s Office thanks program partners, including the Sheriff’s Advisory Foundation, Bike SLO County, The Sandlot Group, local police departments, Waste Connections, and the County Health Agency for their ongoing support.
Call for parade entries and sponsors for Atascadero Colony Days Parade at Fall Fest
Get ready to roll down El Camino Real! The beloved Atascadero Colony Days Parade is set to return on Saturday, November 15, as part of Atascadero’s Fall Festival Weekend, and the community is invited to join the fun.
Parade entries are open and free to participate. Marching groups, floats, car clubs, equestrian teams, civic organizations, and local businesses are all encouraged to showcase their creativity and community pride along the parade route through historic downtown Atascadero.
This year’s theme, “Road to Atascadero: Butterfly Drive,” celebrates the spirit of connection from the rolling hills to the coastal breeze and invites everyone to contribute to our community’s colorful story.
Register your parade entry by Friday, Nov. 7, at ColonyDays.org
the power plant is basically rent-free, MMC officials understand that might not be the case at a future site. “We’re looking for another free place,” Boehm said. “But we’re anticipating we might have to pay rent.”
If readers have a piece of property located somewhere near the coast, and would like to see about helping the Marine Mammal Center, email Aliah Meza the San Luis Obispo Operations Manager in Morro Bay, at MezaA@ TMMC.org
This could be a great chance for residents who’ve gotten so much enjoyment from the plethora of marine mammals that populate our local bays and ocean, to give something back and help the people helping the animals.
Local businesses and community supporters are invited to sponsor marching bands this year. Sponsorship helps bring the music, energy, and tradition that make the parade truly unforgettable. Sponsors will be recognized in event materials and during the parade. For sponsorship details, visit ColonyDays.org
Three employees honored for decades of service at Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast is celebrating three employees for their extraordinary dedication, totaling 85 years of combined service to local youth.
Chief Program Officer Anna Libbon has contributed 35 years to the organization in multiple roles, bringing extensive knowledge of club programs and youth development. Brandi Garcia, finance and business operations manager, and Roberto Rodriguez, chief impact officer, each mark 25 years of service this year. Rodriguez began his career with the club as a janitor and has since made a lasting impact on local kids through leadership and advocacy.
“Anna, Brandi, and Roberto are the heart of our organization,” a press release from Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast said. “Together, their 85 years of service have shaped the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast and created opportunities for thousands of young people. Their dedication and leadership embody the very best of what it means to serve our kids and communities, and their legacy is not only in the years they’ve given, but in the lives they’ve changed.”
Founded in 1966, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast serves children and teens ages TK–18 across 10 club sites in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties, providing after-school tutoring, mentoring, and access to healthy activities.
Before I began my career in law enforcement, I was a part of a program sponsored by the Morro Bay Police Department. It was called the Explorer program. That was back in 1982. A chance to learn more about the law enforcement profession. It left a lasting impression. And that’s why I want to talk about that program, which is still going strong here at the Sheriff’s Office.
The Sheriff’s Explorer Program is a unique opportunity for young men and women, ages 15 to 21, to step into the world of law enforcement and discover what it truly means to serve their community. This is a hands-on, boots-onthe-ground experience that builds confidence, leadership, and communication skills. Explorers train in everything from physical fitness to ethics to real-world decision-making under pressure. Along the way, they gain an inside look at the many roles within the Sheriff’s Office, from deputies and investigators to specialized units. Explorers don’t just learn, they actively serve. They take part in community events, assist at Sheriff’s Office functions, and participate in statewide competitions that test their skills in high-intensity, realistic scenarios. These challenges include providing medical aid, respond-
ing to active-shooter simulations, and executing high-risk traffic stops. It gives participants a glimpse of the pressures and responsibilities our deputies face every day.
Just last month, we hosted the Central Coast Explorer Competition here in San Luis Obispo County. Fourteen Explorer posts and roughly 150 young participants, from CHP to local police departments and other sheriff’s offices, came together for a full day of intense, realistic challenges. The scenarios pushed the Explorers to think fast, communicate clearly, and act decisively under pressure. Awards were presented to the top performers, and scholarships were offered to high school graduates in the program, providing extra motivation for those pursuing further education and careers in law enforcement.
Being a Sheriff’s Explorer is about more than training for a career, it’s about personal growth. These young men and women develop leadership qualities, sharpen their decision-making, and learn how to communicate effectively under pressure. They gain the confidence to face challenges head-on, the discipline to succeed in both professional and personal pursuits, and the sense of responsibility that comes with serving others.
If you know a young person with a passion for law enforcement or community service, I encourage them to consider becoming a Sheriff’s Explorer. This program opens doors to invaluable experiences, fosters personal growth, and offers the chance to make a real difference in the community. For more information, contact Deputy Jessica Dugan at jdugan@co.slo.ca.us
Our Explorers aren’t just preparing for careers, they’re preparing to lead. Their drive, discipline, and heart give me confidence that the future of law enforcement will be in the hands of men and women ready to serve with integrity, courage, and compassion.
Education Employees Serving the Community
San Luis Obispo County school districts and Cuesta College celebrated the achievements of many talented educators and support staff at the Fall Employee of the Year Gala held in October at Cuesta College. Central Coast schools are fortunate to have a well-trained, dedicated, and inspiring workforce. Despite the challenges faced by our educational organizations, opportunities and promise still thrive in our local schools. Events like our “Employees of the Year” highlight the value our employees bring and their lasting impact on generations of the local community. You are invited to watch these celebrations on the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education YouTube channel.
A positive example of a community-serving program is our SLO Partners’ “The Next Wave,” a three-month mentorship and professional development initiative designed for women in San Luis Obispo County. Sponsored by the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education and the San Luis Obispo County Career and Technical Education Foundation, the program combines in-person and virtual sessions with mentorship, peer coaching, and career goal setting. The program features one-on-one mentoring from regional leaders in sectors such as design, engineering, retail, and entrepreneurship. Participants will gain a personalized career roadmap, a stronger sense of purpose, and valuable connections that go beyond the classroom.
The program also addresses the growing
need for accessible, high-impact development opportunities for women navigating career transitions, whether returning to work, switching industries, or stepping into leadership for the first time. “We kept hearing from women who were ready to grow but didn’t know where to start or who to talk to,” said Tyler Skinner, founder of Women Making Waves and creator of the Next Wave. “This is our answer: a community-driven structure where women can learn, plan, and advance together.”
The program has gained support from a network of local businesses and previous community partners, including RRM Design Group, Rick Engineering, and Farm Supply Company. Educators can bring about significant change in our society.
When employees at agencies like the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education, SLO Partners, and the SLO CTE Foundation work together, they serve as role models. These actions speak louder than words, and everyone in the educational community positively influences our students’ learning. Employees in our educational organizations play a vital role in the community’s success, especially during students’ formative years. Educators are no longer just seen as providers of knowledge to empty vessels wandering the hallways. Everyone involved in serving our community must collaborate to develop a highly skilled, educated, and resilient citizenry. Our success as a community, state, and nation depends on a well-educated populace.
The Next Wave is just one of many strong examples of employees in our schools working together to serve our community. Today’s teachers, custodians, bus drivers, clerks, administrators, assistants, and all education staff have great potential to make positive strides by showing a duty of care. Let us celebrate these outstanding individuals who embody the core principles of educational excellence. It is my honor to serve as your County Superintendent of Schools.
“Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.” — Albert Einstein
JAMES BRESCIA, ED.D. SLOCOEDU SUPERINTENDENT
IAN PARKINSON
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY SHERIFF
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 1
OIL PAINTING DEMONSTRATION
Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main Street, Morro Bay
3–5pm
Join award-winning plein air oil painter Elizabeth Tolley for a live demonstration. Hosted by Art Center Morro Bay — all are welcome, no reservations needed.
NOVEMBER 2
MORRO BAY TRIATHLON
101 Coleman Dr., Morro Bay
Start times vary
Experience a scenic triathlon on Morro Bay’s waterfront: choose a harbor swim (or kayak/SUP paddle option), bike along Estero Bay, and run the beach boardwalk, dunes, and shore to Morro Rock. Olympic and sprint courses available.
NOVEMBER 3–24 (MONDAYS) WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP WITH JAN FRENCH
Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main Street, Morro Bay
6–8:30pm
Ideal for beginners learning the basics or advanced students seeking a refresher. Explore watercolor techniques, develop personal style, and work from photos, still lifes, or master paintings. Classes limited to 8 students; some drawing skill helpful
but not required. Registration: artcentermorrobay.org/ workshops
NOVEMBER 6
WINTER FAIRE & JURIED
CRAFT SHOW
Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay
12–4pm
Art Center Morro Bay’s largest show of the year transforms both galleries into a winter wonderland filled with handcrafted ornaments, jewelry, cards, paintings, sculptures, textiles, and more. Shop meaningful, unique gifts from local artisans and support the community in a festive, inspiring atmosphere.
NOVEMBER 8
HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE
Pavilion on the Lake, Atascadero
10am–3pm
Kick off the holiday season with over 90 vendors offering handmade crafts and gifts. Get a head start on holiday shopping or find something special just for you.
NOVEMBER 8–9
SLO CAL SPARTAN
TRIFECTA WEEKEND
Santa Margarita Ranch, San Luis Obispo County Race through vineyards, fall colors, and epic landscapes at one of Spartan’s fastest Ultras—perfect
Calendar of Events
for first-time 50K racers. Weekend also features Spartan Trail Races. Visit spartan.com for registration and details.
Honor our veterans with a moving ceremony featuring a flyover, color guard, live music, wreath laying, and Quilt of Valor presentations. Food available for purchase by Kiwanis of Atascadero.
NOVEMBER 13
PAINT NITE WITH THE CANVAS CLUB
La Katrina Mexican Cocina, 500 Embarcadero, Morro Bay 5–7pm.
Join a fun, guided painting session— no experience needed! Create your own masterpiece while enjoying drinks and delicious food at La Katrina. Perfect for a creative night out with friends.
NOVEMBER 14–16
5TH ANNUAL
ATASCADERO FALL FEST
Sunken Gardens, Downtown Atascadero Friday 4–10pm, Saturday 12–10pm, Sunday 12–10pm Enjoy three days of family fun at
this free admission festival featuring a full-scale carnival, rides, games, vendors, breweries, live music, and more.
THE ANNUAL COLONY DAYS
Downtown Atascadero 10 am-3pm
Enjoy the parade and activities throughout downtown and Sunken Gardens with tours of City Hall and the Colony House in celebration of the early days of Atascadero. For information, visit colonydays.org
NOVEMBER 27
THANKSGIVING DAY
November 29–December 24
CAMBRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET
2905 Burton Drive, Cambria
Daily hours vary
Stroll through over 3 million Christmas lights, explore the artisan vendor market, visit Santa, enjoy train rides, fire pits, live music, and festive food and drinks.
ECHO TURKEY TROT
ATASCADERO LAKE PARK BANDSTAND
8:30am
Join us for a 5K fun run/walk on Thanksgiving morning at Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand at 8:30 am.
Be sure to wear your best turkey
costume as there will be prizes for adults, children and pets!
DECEMBER 5
SANTA’S HOUSE/ HOLIDAY PLAZA
Mission Plaza, San Luis Obispo
Times vary
Check out amazing decorations and activities including an evening light display, carousel, Santa’s Mouse Scavenger hunt, and opportunities to write letters to Santa.
THE NORTH COUNTY NUTCRACKER
Cal Poly Spanos Theatre
Various performance times
The 29th Annual North County Nutcracker, a Storybook Ballet presented by North County Dance and Performing Arts Foundation. Tickets at ncdpaf.org/events.
DECEMBER 5–7
HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
CELEBRATION IN MORRO
BAY Morro Bay City Park
Festivities start at 3:30pm; tree lighting at 5pm.
Join the festive celebration leading up to the enchanting tree lighting ceremony, marking the start of the holiday season.
a
homebuyer, or a seasoned investor, I am here to help.
Please give me a call at (805) 279-9381 to set an appointment today.
