Good morning, San Luis Obispo.

Cal Poly’s VITA program is offering free tax help for qualifying San Luis Obispo County residents making under $70,000 until March 14 (applicants must bring a photo ID, Social Security card, and tax documents).

The SLO County Sheriff’s Office hosted visits from two adoptable dogs from Animal Services that visited jail staff and inmates in a county partnership.

The dogs are now available for adoption at Animal Services.

After its 29th annual event, the Creston Classic Rodeo donated $25,000 to local groups — $15,000 for the community center in a former firehouse and $10,000 for pool upkeep that keeps it free for families.

The donation underscores the rodeo’s long-standing commitment to Creston programs.

Cal Poly hosts diverse arts events in February with touring and campus programs.

The month features Keyon Harrold on Feb. 4, The String Queens on Feb. 12, and Chris Thile on Feb. 28 + more shows with tickets available online or at the Performing Arts Center.

On Monday at 2:00 p.m., San Luis Obispo High School hosted motivational speaker Retro Bill, who shared his journey overcoming bullying & inspired students to embrace optimism.

Sponsored by California Central Coast Cops N' Kids & attended by a local officer, the event promoted a positive view of law enforcement.

Almond Acres Charter Academy in Paso Robles opened enrollment for the 2026-27 school year and is accepting kindergarten-to-eighth-grade requests until March 31 at 5 p.m.; campus tours (Feb.

4, Feb. 12, March 5, March 25) and a random drawing on April 16 will decide oversubscribed grades.

Ash Pickett, a business administration senior, updated a guide to the best Central Coast coffee shops today.

The guide highlights Linnaea’s + Front Porch along with other local spots offering cozy study spaces, free perks, and unique drink picks.

Adoptable Pet of the Week features Lil Bear (a friendly 4-year-old black cat) now fostered in Paso Robles and available for adoption through North County Paws Cause.

She was rescued from the streets, spayed, and shows comfort with being petted.

Spirit of Paso Robles at River Oaks Golf Course (700 Clubhouse Dr.) opened last year and quickly became a local favorite for fresh meals and friendly service; co-owner Mike Stanton credits its success to simple food done well with favorites like the Cowboy Cuban Sandwich and a spot-on smash burger.

Cal Poly Women’s Basketball lost to UC Riverside 70-66 at the Mott Athletics Center, marking a fourth consecutive week without a win.

The Mustangs will try to break a seven-game losing streak when they face Cal State Northridge on Thursday at 6 p.m.