Your community newspaper brought to life.

Good Morning SLO is our platform for sharing ideas, news and inspiration. A monthly program that brings community leaders, business owners, nonprofit executives and staffers together, and enables us to reconnect, engage and learn from each other.

Our goal is to provide insight into business, community and legislative issues and share the stories of those making a difference. We want audience members to leave with ideas and information about how to better their personal and professional lives.

Good Morning SLO happens on the fourth Thursday of every month except November when it is on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving.

FEATURING

HIGHWAY 1 SHOOTING RANGE

The shooting range on Highway 1 has been closed since January, and many locals eagerly await the opportunity to safely practice archery, riflery, trap and skeet again in this location. Local firearms safety instructor Amber Johnson will provide perspective about the range, explain its management structure and help us understand what to expect for the future of marksmanship on the Central Coast.

TAIL WAGGING FUN

After a nine-month renovation, SLO’s only dog park has been transformed. Director of Parks and Recreation, Greg Avakian, will share how the project was designed, prioritized and the incredible ways it offers a safer, more inclusive space with separate areas for large and small dogs, new fencing, ADA-accessible paths and modern amenities like new seating and drinking fountains.

PRIDE, YEAR ROUND

Off the heels of a successful Pride festival, the Gala Pride & Diversity Center is planning for the organization’s future. Julia Thompson, Board Chair, will join us onstage to share about the current status of the Pride & Diversity Center, the programs they offer, an update on their financial standing and a major state award she received as a result of her leadership through the organization’s transition.

SAVING LIVES, ONE DONATION AT A TIME

You’ve probably heard that there’s a consistent shortage of blood, platelets and plasma, but what does that actually mean and what is the best donation option for you and your blood type? Beau Mercurio will join us from Vitalant to share more about the local need for donors, what donation types are best for each blood type and the great work they’re doing to help save lives.

AROUND AND AROUND

When’s the last time you headed to Avila Beach? Major roadworks are taking place to build a new roundabout at the Avila Beach Drive exit off Highway 101. John Diodati, Public Works Director for the County of SLO, will join us to share more about this project, upcoming closures, impacts to traffic and how the finished product will substantially improve the flow of traffic.

DAMON CASTILLO

We’ll close out the morning with a lively performance from Damon Castillo and the Damon Castillo Band, giving us a preview of his eclectic, jazz-informed rock, funk and soul performance lined up for August 15 at Concerts in the Plaza.

Thank you to this month’s featured sponsor:

Thank you to all the Good Morning SLO Annual Sponsors for 2025: