A slice of SLO County.

Whether you’re new to SLO County, a long-time resident, or just visitng for a change of pace, can you really say you’ve experienced the “SLO Life”? You’ve probably gone hiking up Bishop Peak or spent the day at Montana De Oro, played in the waves at Pismo Beach or strolled through the Arroyo Grande Village. You may have even experienced the community at SLO Farmer’s Market, tasted the wine at one of the many local vineyards, or gone water-skiing at Lopez Lake. If so, then you’ve experienced some of the SLO Life. But not all of it… not by a long shot.

Many of these things are what SLO County is known for; relaxation, community, adventure, and a slower life that lets you take things in and truly appreciate them. But have you done it all? Have you watched live theater at the Great American Melodrama, sang karaoke at Mother’s Tavern, or experienced the great food and personal service at Alphy’s Broiler? Have you gone horseback riding on the beach in Oceano or watched movies in the Sunken Gardens park in Atascadero? How about a special getaway at the Lighthouse in Avila Beach or a long, scenic bike ride down Bob Jones trail… have you done that? Ever watched a rodeo at the Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles or seen the Monarch butterflies flock to their sactuary in Pismo Beach?

You’ve probably done some of this, and if you’ve lived in SLO County for a long time, then you may have even done most of it. But I’m willing to bet that you haven’t done all of it. And even if you have… have you done all of it lately? There is so much that this county has to offer; many even call it a Dream Town. This New Year, get out there and experience the highly sought after “SLO Life”, even if only to rediscover the things about it that made you fall in love in the first place.

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

With the summer sun beating down on Grover Beach, locals and visitors filled the streets for this year’s Stone Soup Music Faire. With this being my first visit to the annual festival, I was curious about the food, entertainment, and people that the event would draw out. My answer came within the first few minutes of browsing around; everyone seemed to be there to relax, have a good time, talk amongst each other, and enjoy the day. Soon I too found myself unwinding, wandering along the streets and sidewalks as I browsed the boutiques, crafts, and local vendors. One such vendor, Chic Ztudio from Los Angeles, caught my eye with his beautifully hand-crafted jewelry, and I couldn’t resist buying a turquoise and red stoned necklace.

The most challenging part of the day came when it was time to decide what to eat,since the aroma of BBQ, roasted corn, jambalaya, and tacos were all competing for my attention since my arrival. I decided on an Asada Torta and fresh watermelon juice and sat down under the sun listening to the fun sound of String Planet on the main stage. As the day wandered into night, more and more people began to arrive until the main stage seating was full and the streets were alive with visitors walking up and down along the faire.

If you missed the opening day of the festival, you still have a chance to experince the fun, food, and entertainment on Sunday. Dr. Magic and String Planet are back, along with Salsa dance lessons and more.

Visit the Grover Beach Chamber of Commerce website for full details, and enjoy the pictures below!