A slice of SLO County.

We live in a place that many would consider paradise. With beaches, lakes, and mountains all just a short and scenic drive away and an ideal climate almost year-round, it’s no surprise that San Luis Obispo is the destination for many looking to vacation or retire. In fact, Sunset Magazine recently named San Luis Obispo the second best dream town in the West, citing landmarks, climate and local traditions among the top contributing factors for the accolade.

Locals have long enjoyed the hikes at Bishop’s Peak, strolling downtown near the Historical Mission, picking up fresh produce every Thursday from the Farmer’s Market, and weekend wine tasting trysts at the many nearby vineyards. Pack in the lazy days at the lake, playing at the beach, and the friendly laid-back people, and it’s obvious why, “San Luis Obispo is the most Californian place in all of California“.

SLO Farmer’s Market usually makes for a laid-back Thursday evening in the streets downtown, however, last night was a bit different. With the Week Of Welcome inaugurating all of the new Cal Poly students, a Mariachi band and Folklorico dancers celebrating the Mexican Independence Day with booming music and colorful dresses, and an interactive dance party on a big screen in the middle of the street, things were a little more lively than usual.

Higuera Street was alive. The street strollers still enjoyed the fresh flowers and produce,caricature drawings, and unsurpassed local BBQ, but hey had a few more people than usual to make their way through and around. The energy could be felt all throughout downtown, with costumed Wowees, the “free hugs” guy gifting, well, free hugs, and overflowing sidewalks and streets. It almost felt like a mini-Vegas in downtown SLO.

This week’s Farmer’s Market frenzy was just the beginning,though, now that Cal Poly is back in. So if you’re looking for a little more excitement during your week, that’s the place to be on Thursday night!

Post updated September 19, 2008 (added photos)

It doesn’t seem like seven years have gone by since the terrorist attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001. That piece of history impacted every American, some more significantly than others, and will continue to be felt across the nation and in our own community. To honor those lost in the attacks as well as the men and women currently serving in the armed forces, there will be a memorial event held today at Ramona Garden Park. This is the sixth year that the event will be held, with the first ceremony held in 2002, and will begin at 5:30pm.

You can visit our community calendar for times and details, or visit the Grover Beach Parks and Recreation website.

Remembering 9/11

With the national election less than two months away, much attention is upon the presidential race for the White House. And while it may be unlikely to meet the national candidates in person, it is absolutely possible to meet the candidates in your own town. On September 17 and 22, the candidates for Pismo Beach Mayor and City Council will hold a forum discussion on local issues.

Residents are welcome and encouraged to attend to meet the candidates and discuss local issue with them first-hand in a forum style environment. Are there things you would like to be addressed? Would you like to hear about the plans for Pismo Beach? Do you have questions about how things are decided or why certain things happen? This is a great way to get informed so you can cast an educated vote on Election Day.

The forum events are sponsored by the Pismo Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Shell Beach Improvement Group. In this historic time for our nation, each person’s decision to vote is more important than ever, both on a national and local level.

Get more information

After three years, the Five Cities Dog Park Association has finally started with the construction of the off-leash dog park. After overcoming challenges on where the park would be approved, the new location is going to be section of the Elm Street Park.

“Having an off-leash dog park is important for us because our dog, Malibu, is so energetic and active. Just taking her for walks is not enough. It’s going to be great to have a local place where she can run free,” said Grover Beach dog owner, Dustin Thompson.

This off-leash Dog Park will not be maintained by the city of Arroyo Grande but will be maintained by volunteers of the five cities dog park association. Since this a non profit organization they are responsible for raising the funds to construct and maintain this area of the park. This is great for the community as well as dog owners to get to meet new friends with the one thing in common they love — their dogs!

Visit the Five Cities Dog Park Association at: http://fivecitiesdogpark.org/index.htm