Of the 370 Cuesta College faculty and staff members who filled out a campuswide climate survey, 17.7 percent said they felt college leadership provided a climate of trust and openness. Thirty-nine percent said they disagreed that leadership provides timely, relevant communication. One division chair told New Times he retired early due to the issues.
A professor of 20 years said they hadn’t seen leadership issues like this is a long time. Staff Writer Libbey Hanson spoke with them as well as a district board member and the college superintendent, Jill Stearns, both of whom pushed back on the survey results and other allegations [6]
Also this week, read about a defamation lawsuit against Karen Velie [4], Indigenous identity, migrant labor, and peaceful protest on canvas at SLOMA [18], and CJ’s BBQ Smokehouse in SLO [26].
Camillia Lanham editor
photo by Jayson Mellom cover design by Alex Zuniga
Another defamation lawsuit filed against CalCoastNews’ Karen Velie
Arizona pickleball politics leached into the San Luis Obispo Superior Court through twin defamation lawsuits aimed at CalCoastNews owner Karen Velie and an alleged faulty news source.
“The statements made were intended to and actually did expose Jody Bernat to hatred, contempt, shunning from the Grand Pickleball Club and elsewhere in Arizona pickleball circles as well as social circles in [SLO], in addition to other reputational injuries,” a Feb. 14 complaint against Velie said. “Said actions were further a substantial factor in causing harm to Jody Bernat’s businesses and business development.”
Plaintiff Bernat is the ex-wife of real estate and land use attorney John Belsher, who was associated with disgraced former PB Companies executive Ryan Wright in an $8.6 million fraud ruling.
She filed two lawsuits against Velie and her Arizona neighbor Steve Cable based on statements both parties made in a December 2024 CalCoastNews article titled “Is San Luis Obispo attorney John Belsher using an alias?”
Velie wrote that Bernat and Belsher moved to Surprise, Arizona, soon after a SLO judge ordered him and Wright to pay $3.6 million in the fraud case. Calling the legally separated Bernat and Belsher “the Belshers,” Velie’s story also said that Cable told CalCoastNews that the pair introduced themselves as a married couple named Jody Bernat and Jon Bailey. The article stated that Bernat and Belsher signed up for pickleball events using those names.
CalCoastNews later added a correction to the top of the story.
“Correction: Jodi [sic] Belsher legally changed her name to Jody Bernat after moving to Arizona, according to John Belsher,” the note said.
last name from Belsher because she was stalked and physically confronted by a person allegedly known to have unregistered weapons. A judge in Maricopa County Superior Court granted the name change request in October 2024. She then used the name Bernat in her Grand Pickleball Club interactions.
“This impact and injury was intended by Steve Cable as he sought to drive Jody Bernat from the Grand Pickleball Club where Steve Cable thinks of and presents himself as some kind of expert-player and the organizer of many club gatherings among players,” the complaint said. “Steve Cable admitted
and a printed apology within 10 days.
“At one point Jody offered to give you our side of things, but you told her, ‘No thanks, I have all the information I need,’” Belsher wrote in the letter. “In the case of the Dec. 30, 2024, article, you failed to pick up the phone and inquire as to the truth of the claims you published.”
He sent a similar letter to Cable, too, but the complaint said the neighbor didn’t provide an apology or retraction. Neither Velie nor Cable responded to New Times’ requests for comment by press time.
In 2017, Velie and reporter Dan Blackburn answered for a 2012 article in a weeklong trial that ultimately found the website guilty of libel, which is a form of defamation. A jury found that Velie and Blackburn made false accusations in the story about local waste management businesses owner Charles Tenborg.
Belsher, who represents Bernat in the litigation, told New Times he hopes for “retractions, apologies, and damages.” Each complaint asked for $70,000 in damages and to cover the cost of suits.
The complaints noted that Bernat changed her
The Tribune sues Paso Robles and sitting councilman for public records
The Tribune sued the city of Paso Robles and City Councilmember Chris Bausch over what it said are unfulfilled Public Records Act requests. The state law allows public access to government records, and The Tribune argued that both the city and Bausch violated that law by either not producing the records or not providing them within
to Jody in a January 2025 in-person conversation, that he considered Jody Bernat and her husband to be ‘criminals on the run, hiding from the law and using aliases.’”
Bernat alleged that Cable’s comments to Velie and her subsequent publication of his statements compelled her to “abandon” a software business named TreasureSave. Velie’s article allegedly also affected the marketing and sale of movies and books produced by Bernat.
Prior to filing the lawsuits, Belsher sent Velie a letter in January asking for a retration of her article
a reasonable timeframe, according to the writ of mandate submitted on March 10.
Consisting of 171 pages, the suit states that The Tribune filed 19 Public Records Act (PRA) requests with the city between 2024 and early 2025, including for email communications between former City Manager Ty Lewis and Bausch and an audio recording that Bausch allegedly had on his private phone.
The requests stem from a conflict between Bausch and Lewis, who submitted a $2.2 million
Belsher’s letter to Velie also clarified his use of the name Jon Bailey in Arizona.
“While not relevant to this accusation of defamatory action, I have used my legal name for all matters other than some pickleball events, where we used my nickname in order to keep Jody’s name private (officially sealed with the court for protection),” he wrote.
Case management conferences for both lawsuits are scheduled for June and July in SLO Superior Court. ∆
claim to the city last August accusing Bausch of creating a toxic workplace. In multiple stories since last August, The Tribune has attempted to uncover what really happened between the two officials. But the city and Bausch made this pursuit difficult, The Tribune’s legal document says. The city claimed Bausch failed to turn over requested records, while Bausch accused the city of not instructing him appropriately.
—Bulbul Rajagopal
HOT SEAT CalCoastNews owner Karen Velie examines the 2012 article she wrote with reporter Daniel Blackburn at her libel trial in 2017. Now, Velie faces a defamation lawsuit from a former SLO County resident.
FILE PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM
Eventually, Bausch turned over the audio recording, but the city has yet to fill three other requests for email communications allegedly on Bausch’s personal electronics, the suit states. According to The Tribune’s March 11 article announcing its legal action, the city closed a fourth PRA request despite Bausch not turning over any items.
“Failure to adequately search for and fully produce all documents and/or information responsive to The Tribune’s [PRA] request violated the [PRA] and the California Constitution,” the lawsuit states.
Tribune Attorney Karl Olsen told New Times that newspaper decided to sue both the city and Bausch because they were both at fault for shortcomings.
“The bottom line is that [Bausch] eventually turned over the tape, but he’s resisted turning over other records, and the city has, in our view, not done an adequate search,” he said. “Even if you put Bausch aside, that certainly raises questions about the extent of the city’s search. So, we think that both the city and Bausch have violated the Public Records Act, and that’s why we’re naming both.”
First and foremost, they hope the lawsuit yields the documents, Olsen said. But secondly, they hope this will inspire Paso Robles to adopt a stronger policy on “copy or use,” Olsen said.
Olsen referenced a lawsuit from 2017, City of San Jose v. The Superior Court of Santa Clara County, which established that if public business was conducted privately, those records are still considered public. Olsen said
Dream Home
if Paso were to enforce stricter rules, it could more adequately produce records and meet the law in situations like this.
“We take this very seriously, and it’s a matter of intense public interest,” Olsen said.
“[Public officials] seem to like to do public business on their so-called private electronic devices, and they resist turning it over. And you know, the public has the right to know how public business is done. That’s true in Washington, D.C., and it’s certainly true in California.”
Paso Robles City Attorney Elizabeth Hull told New Times via email that the city is aware of the lawsuit and “the city has made every effort to respond to all Public Records Act requests by The Tribune,” she said.
“The city will review the complaint and will respond appropriately.”
Bausch did not respond to a request for comment.
—Libbey Hanson
Paso Robles joins JPA for collaborative water basin usage
Despite heated opposition from residents, the Paso Robles City Council voted to opt in to a collaborative effort that aims to keep the Paso Robles Groundwater Basin from potentially going dry.
At a meeting on March 4, the council heard from Public Works Director Christopher Alakel, who urged the city to join a joint powers authority (JPA) that aimed to be made up of five groundwater sustainability agencies—the city of Paso, San Miguel Community Services District, San
Luis Obispo County, and the Shandon-San Juan and Estrella-El Pomar-Creston water districts.
According to Alakel, all water agencies overlying the basin except for Paso Robles and the San Simeon Community Services District had voted to join, and San Simeon was waiting on Paso’s March 4 vote before it decided to move forward.
Working jointly to ensure sustainable and collaborative management of the basin, the conglomerate hopes to address an “overdraft” of water, which averages about 13,700 acre-feet per year, according to the basin’s sustainable management plan approved by the state in 2023.
Through the JPA, Alakel said the five agencies could carry out and fund regulatory and administrative functions under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, and would allow each agency to set its own fees, which would be based on a property’s water usage.
That means that agriculture properties would have the highest usage fees, while domestic or de minimis users would be charged a fee likely around $20 per year. The fees collected would go toward the authority’s administration, water projects outlined in the sustainable management plan, and maintenance of water systems.
City Councilmember Chris Bausch took issue with this fee structure. He said the JPA shouldn’t charge “the small guy for something they didn’t sign up for,” suggesting that “the big guy” should pay the fees.
“Those that pump the most are going to be paying the most,” Alakel replied. “If you ask me, not having a [JPA] and having this groundwater basin continue its state of decline, to me that’s far greater risk to those de minimis pumpers than it is to pay a $12 to $20 a year annual fee to ensure the long-term sustainability to their water supply.” If the city didn’t agree to join the authority, Alakel said the state could end up taking control of the basin.
During two hours of public comment at the March 4 meeting, multiple people asked the council to table the decision until more information came forward, like specific fees per property.
One resident said if the council approved joining the JPA, it defeated their oaths as public servants to protect the state and U.S., including the constitutional right to manage one’s own property and water.
Public commenters had relayed similar messages to the SLO County Board of Supervisors on Feb. 4, when it approved expanding a well-monitoring network in the Paso Robles Groundwater sub-basin.
“I will be thinking of one of the supervisors every time I flush the toilet,” said Darcia Stebbins, who spoke in opposition.
Paso’s City Council voted 4-1 to join the JPA with Bausch opposed. The San Simeon Community Services District is agendized to consider joining at its March 13 meeting. ∆ —Libbey Hanson
Dismal disposition
Campus survey reveals many Cuesta College faculty and staff don’t have job satisfaction, don’t feel support from leadership
Retaliation. High turnover. Lack of support.
Cuesta College employees are fed up with administration—at least that’s what some faculty members said after the college released the results of its campus climate survey.
Former Engineering and Technology Division Chair John Stokes told New Times he decided to retire early in 2023 due to issues with Cuesta leadership and blames President Jill Stearns and the board of trustees for low employee morale.
“Jill Stearns is a manager. She is not a leader,” Stokes said. “One of the classes that I teach is a professional development class, which works on workplace skills.
“She has none of those,” he said.
Campus climate
Nearly a year after Stokes retired, Cuesta issued a campuswide climate survey, asking employees if it fosters an environment for student success; diversity, equity, and inclusion; and job satisfaction among other areas. Of about 708 faculty and staff— between full-time, part-time, and classified— about 370 responded to the survey, and the results were released in early 2025.
In some areas, like student focus, Cuesta College scored relatively high: 78 percent of respondents agreed that the college places a high priority on student success.
In other areas, not so much.
Survey results also showed that staff and faculty feel a low sense of belonging on Cuesta’s campus, and only 17.7 percent said they felt that college leadership provides a climate of trust and openness.
According to Cuesta board trustee Debra Stakes, the survey was created for faculty and staff at the request of ad hoc groups that wanted to know the current campus climate. The survey was developed by two board members and launched by a third party.
When the results were presented to the board of trustees on Jan. 8, Stakes said she was pleasantly surprised that focus on student success was high.
“That was the highest priority. I think that it’s a commitment that we can all get behind,” she said.
But regarding the fact that respondents felt unappreciated—she said it would be challenging to navigate a solution. Right now, Stakes said the board is waiting on feedback before it takes any action to address the results.
“The data has been published in this raw form, and we have also given the data to three constituent groups. … We have asked each of those constituent groups to go within themselves, to look at the data … and then to come to the administration with some suggestions of how to improve things,” she said. “It’s not the administration, it’s not the board that’s going to be driving this.”
Of those who responded to the climate survey, 39 percent said they disagreed that college leadership provides timely and relevant communication with the campus community, but Stakes said she didn’t understand why.
Through “opening days” on campus with the president and board every semester and weekly reports posted and emailed to campus employees, Stakes said there are plenty of resources where staff and faculty can be informed.
“Yet somehow, they’re not taking advantage of it,” she said. “I don’t know what else we can do, maybe provide free food or something. It’s not that there’s no communication being provided. It’s out there, but I think people are just so headsdown trying to do their own job and take care of their families that they haven’t been able to take advantage of it.”
President Stearns told New Times via email she was both surprised and concerned by the survey results about leadership support and said she values trust and transparency as key elements of leadership.
“Not only am I open and direct about institutional challenges and opportunities, I believe that the best decision-making comes when we are all working with the same information,” she said. “I encourage questions and am happy to seek out answers when I don’t have the details.”
Once the board receives the feedback from its constituents, Stakes said it will go to Stearns for review.
Retaliation
Former Division Chair Stokes said he doesn’t believe the board is doing its due diligence in leadership and lacks insight on campus climate.
“I think one of the big problems is that the board of trustees is not doing their job,” he said. “They get their information through board meetings. … I cannot say [I’ve seen] a board member one time out at our facilities, looking to see with their own eyes what’s going on.”
Stokes also takes issue with the results being handled by Stearns, whom he alleges causes the most issues—specifically noting retaliation against employees who may not agree with the administration.
Stearns responded via email: “Cuesta College does not tolerate retaliation in any form or manner. All complaints of retaliation are taken very seriously and addressed according to policy.”
Interference
A recent example of the potential disconnection between faculty and leadership happened last November when Vice President of Instruction Jason Curtis spoke at an academic senate meeting discouraging the senate from electing faculty member Lara Baxley as president.
“I urge the academic senate council to reject the proposal on the agenda and to reopen the nomination process for academic senate president,” Curtis said, according to the Nov. 22 meeting minutes. “In my opinion, Lara lacks the collaborative spirit and collegiality to serve as senate president for the next two years.”
Curtis accused Baxley of belittling and
disrespecting a fellow faculty member of color and said his testimony was of his own volition.
“I want to close by sharing my reaction upon first seeing this item on the senate agenda for the previous meeting. … I went home that evening and started looking for other jobs,” he said. “I will not risk my own mental and physical health by attempting to work with Lara as senate president over the next two years. Thank you for hearing me out and allowing me to speak my truth.”
One senator said they were stunned by Curtis’ comment and had never heard an administrator speak about a faculty member that way.
Another said they believed that “this event illustrates what the climate survey is intended to measure but may not—an institution where many feel as though they cannot speak freely and work together collegially.”
The senate ultimately put its decision to elect Baxley on hold, as it considered how to address Curtis’ comment, including censuring.
Baxley withdrew her application for senate president, and Dec. 13 meeting minutes said that Curtis had interfered with the senate’s autonomy of its own government and violated Cuesta core values in an “unkind and unprofessional” manner.
Stearns told New Times that Cuesta College does not comment on personnel matters.
Former Division Chair Stokes said that the academic senate is made up of faculty.
“The administration has no influence whatsoever over it, nor should they. And yet he came in and read that letter,” he said, accusing Stearns of knowing about the interference.
“And we all are well aware that with Jill Stearns nothing goes on at that campus without her knowing about it. And you know, because [Curtis] worked so closely with her, he had to have consulted with her before sharing during the academic senate,” Stokes said.
New Times contacted Stearns for comment, and Associate Director of Marketing and Communications Ritchie Bermudez responded saying this allegation is inaccurate.
Functioning in fear
One faculty member, who requested to speak anonymously due to fear of retaliation, told New Times they have taught at Cuesta for 20 years and said they hadn’t seen leadership like this in a long time.
“A fish rots from the head down; if things aren’t great, it trickles down,” they said.
Leadership does send many campuswide communications, but it’s the personal interactions that are lacking, they said, mentioning that they have had no individual communication with Stearns in six years.
Stearns said via email this was surprising to hear.
“I have an open-door policy, as does human resources, and we are very responsive to email,” Stearns said.
The faculty member questioned the effectiveness of the campus climate survey and said they had been invited to join the faculty task force, but the expected hours were during class time—40-minute sessions every Tuesday in the middle of the day.
“Seems a little like we aren’t getting to the root of the problem,” they said.
They also wished the survey had offered the option for open-ended questions rather than multiple choice, allowing staff and faculty to specify their grievances, noting that “not all leadership is bad.” But overall, the faculty member said the frustration between leadership and staff and faculty negatively impacts Cuesta’s students.
“Vulnerable students need faculty that are on their game,” they said. “If we are worrying about things we shouldn’t worry about, it’s hard to focus on what we need to be doing.”
Reach Staff Writer Libbey Hanson at lhanson@newtimesslo.com.
SURVEYING SOLUTIONS Amid negative survey results, Cuesta College leadership has requested that departments create task forces, assigned with the duty of developing solutions that would help enhance the relationship between leadership and the staff and faculty.
PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM
Sound test
Atwo-year progress report on San Luis Obispo County’s first meditation pod, originally meant to reduce stressors for its jail diversion population, revealed the device was source of relief for its users.
“Through the sound, through the vibrations, through the lights, and through this personalized, individualized space, we recognized that we weren’t really getting people to meditate,” Heal Founder and CEO Mahesh Natrajan said. “What we were getting them to do is to self-regulate, is to be engaged in the conversation that they were going to have after the interventions when they met their therapists.”
Natrajan’s multi-sensory stimulation therapy company partnered with the county to create the Heal Meditation project or SoundHeal in 2021. Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) innovation funds—a stateallocated pot of money dedicated to testing and trying new practices in the field of mental health—paid for the 4-by-4-foot structure called the Heal Pod. MHSA money for the project came from 2004’s Proposition 63, a 1 percent tax on incomes totaling $1 million and more.
The Heal Pod’s first set of users were people in the county’s justice system— those on probation, court-ordered appointees, and some of the recently incarcerated. Data for the 2024 two-year report on the Heal Pod came from 38 people who documented their experiences between September 2022 and March 2024.
Promote!
“Other commonly selected behaviors are reorganizing, building good habits, and accepting challenges,” the report said. “Over 25 percent reported that their time in the pod helped them spend more time moving outside, be it walking, biking, running, or hiking.”
Seventy-three percent of participants who kept monthly journals said that participating in fewer than 10 sessions in the Heal Pod frequently helped with their well-being.
Of the people who experienced 30 or more sessions in the pod, 83 percent of participants said the device “always and very frequently” helped them.
“What that is showing us and helped us understand is that when people stay with it, they benefit from it,” Natrajan said.
While the latest report is numbers-based, Natrajan hopes future reports on the Heal Pod incorporate accounts from participants themselves.
“These are people who don’t have vocabulary to speak because they’re in … justice services, and look at what they’re writing [in the journals],” he said. “There is something to say about one person saying, ‘You know what, I was going to do something; I was going to self-harm, and I didn’t.’”
Send business and nonprofit information to strokes@newtimesslo.com.
The Heal founder also wants later reports to focus on the impact the pod had on therapists as well, and the value they get out it.
While 43 percent of participants said that the Heal Pod helped with their well-being “very frequently,” “me time” and taking more breaks were the top behaviors associated with coping skills that people said the machine instilled in them.
In the meantime, Natrajan said he’s pleased with the improvements made on the pod itself. After listening to feedback from several clients, the old meditation pod—a sound insulated, enclosed space with a curtain entry and a padded chair with a backrest—got swapped.
The updated pod, located on the Behavioral Health Department’s central campus, now has a more comfortable seat, more soundtracks for vibrations and pain management, and light therapy.
“We raised the height of the seat because a lot of people said that it was too low and they had knee problems and pain, things like that,” Natrajan said. “We’ve incorporated as much as we could to accommodate for the entire population as a whole, wherever we can.”
Fast facts
• The Associated Collegiate Press inducted Cal Poly student news outlet Mustang News into its Hall of Fame on March 8. Mustang News joins 57 newspapers, 10 yearbooks, and four magazines inducted during the past 36 years for excellence in student journalism.
• Sustainable startup Mr. Turtle’s refillable laundry detergent station crafted from wood made its collegiate debut on March 9. Cal Poly students can now stock up on detergent at Poly Canyon Market in the Poly Canyon Village second-year apartment complex. ∆
Reach Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal at brajagopal@newtimesslo.com.
LISTEN UP Based on client feedback, the Heal Pod, located at the SLO County Behavioral Health Department’s central campus, recently got new features, including light therapy, more soundtracks, and a higher seat.
BY JILL STEGMAN
One size doesn’t fit all
California’s AB 1468 undermines ethnic studies instead of strengthening it
California’s Assembly Bill 1468 (AB 1468) is being touted as a necessary step to standardize and safeguard ethnic studies curricula in public schools. It is proposed by Assemblymembers Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles) and Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) and state Sen. Josh Becker (D-San Mateo), who say it is intended to combat rising antisemitism in K-12 schools, citing incidents of Jewish students being targeted over the war in Gaza. However, upon closer scrutiny, this bill poses serious risks to academic freedom, inclusivity, and local control—ultimately undermining the very goals it seeks to achieve.
A blow to local control
One of the bill’s most concerning aspects is its centralization of curriculum development. By mandating the California Department of
It’s time to fight back for the future
How many of you know what ecosystem services are? How many of you can describe the carbon cycle? What about mRNA? If you don’t know, then why are you so confident in your stance against science? Why support deforestation, water contamination, and the dismissal of climate change when you can’t even explain its most basic principles? Why reject vaccines without understanding how they work? You might not feel embarrassed, but you should feel curious. You should feel responsible. But many refuse to question their beliefs. Why? Because admitting you were misled takes courage. Because learning something new means letting go of old lies.
Education to set uniform content standards, AB 1468 strips local school districts of the flexibility to tailor ethnic studies courses to reflect their communities’ unique histories and needs. Ethnic studies, at its core, is about elevating diverse voices and perspectives—yet this bill risks homogenizing the curriculum into a onesize-fits-all approach that fails to serve the varied student populations across the state.
Exclusion, not inclusion
AB 1468 explicitly designates African Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans, and Native Americans as “priority” groups. While these communities’ histories are essential, this narrow categorization risks marginalizing other ethnic and identity groups, including Arab Americans, Pacific Islanders, and LGBTQ-plus individuals. True ethnic studies should be an inclusive discipline that acknowledges the struggles and contributions of all historically underrepresented communities. By narrowing its focus, AB 1468 contradicts the very principles it claims to uphold.
That’s why Trump was right when he said he could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue and still have your support. He knows you won’t fact-check him. He knows he can lie, cheat, and destroy—and you’ll still follow.
And where has that blind loyalty led us?
• 280 million acres of forests set for destruction.
• Social programs gutted.
• Cancer research halted.
The sick left to die, the hungry left to starve, and the most vulnerable cast aside. Is this the country you want? A nation that poisons its own water, strips its own land bare, abandons its own people? If this is the future you fight for, then at least own it.
But for those of you who do still have a conscience, it’s time to wake up. It’s time to
A path toward censorship
The bill also raises red flags about potential censorship. Ethnic studies courses should encourage critical thinking and open discussion about complex historical and sociopolitical issues. However, AB 1468 may restrict educators from addressing certain topics—such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict—out of political sensitivity. If the state begins picking and choosing what aspects of history can be taught, it sets a dangerous precedent for suppressing difficult but necessary conversations.
Bureaucratic overreach
Beyond content concerns, AB 1468 introduces bureaucratic obstacles that could hinder rather than help ethnic studies education. The establishment of an advisory committee and oversight by the Instructional Quality Commission adds layers of red tape, slowing curriculum development and implementation. Moreover, the 2028 deadline for adopting new standards may result in rushed decision-making that sacrifices educational quality for the sake of compliance.
fight back. The future doesn’t belong to those who stand by while greed poisons the land: It belongs to those who refuse to let it happen. Demand better. Call out the lies. Stop letting these people destroy everything under the guise of “patriotism.” Patriotism isn’t blind obedience. It’s protecting your home, your people, your future.
Which side of history will you be on?
Ender Wiggin Atascadero
3CE hasn’t lived up to promises, but it’s better than PG&E
The recent article, “Promises, Promises” (March 6), about 3CE, our community choice provider, is right on target. Unfortunately,
A better approach
Instead of imposing top-down mandates, California should prioritize a collaborative approach that involves educators, scholars, and community leaders in shaping ethnic studies curricula. Schools should have the flexibility to craft programs that reflect their students’ lived experiences while ensuring academic rigor and historical accuracy. Standardization should not come at the cost of erasing perspectives, stifling discussion, or burdening schools with unnecessary bureaucracy.
AB 1468 may have been introduced with good intentions, but it risks doing more harm than good. Rather than advancing ethnic studies, it threatens to weaken its impact by restricting local control, marginalizing key voices, and potentially fostering censorship. If California truly wants to honor the diversity of its students, it must reconsider this flawed legislation and seek a more inclusive and thoughtful path forward. ∆
Jill Stegman is a retired teacher in Grover Beach. Send a response for publication to letters@newtimesslo.com.
despite performing a little better than PG&E, it is not one of the better community choice aggregators (CCAs). Other CCAs provide lower prices, cleaner energy, encourage energy conservation, and more.
When 3CE changed its true-up date for solar customers, they reneged on their original promise and cemented their standing as the worst CCA for customers with solar. That, apparently, is OK with them. Yes, 3CE is clearly a disappointment and has not lived up to its potential.
Still, most customers are better off with 3CE than with PG&E. One crucial benefit is that 3CE offers important incentives for customers wanting to electrify their rides and homes.
John Smigelski San Luis Obispo
HODIN
Russell Hodin
Opinion
BY JOHN DONEGAN
The outrage machine
Follow today’s media, and you will encounter pieces functioning as “outrage porn,” whipping an easily manipulated and excitable readership into agitated indignation. All it takes is a sympathetic “victim,” add a few heartwarming details or pictures to further humanize them, throw in a villain, and then just omit any information which might “confuse” the chosen narrative. A recent story in USA Today and the comments on it, regarding an incident at a Maryland Cracker Barrel restaurant, furnish an excellent example.
To summarize, a school for kids with autism and significant cognitive disabilities planned a meal outing of 11 students and seven staff to a restaurant to help train them to “perform practical skills and socialize with the public.” Calling Cracker Barrel to make a reservation, they were told that none was necessary, as Cracker Barrel generally doesn’t accept reservations. When they arrived, they found that the restaurant was shortstaffed that day, causing the extra dining room usually used for larger groups to be unavailable. They unsuccessfully sought to sit in the general dining room with other diners. Ultimately, after waiting about one hour for take-out meals, they ate back at school.
The teachers reported that the students had trained for and anticipated this outing, sat quietly, and that the restaurant staff treated them rudely, failing to even offer them drinks while they waited. The teachers
took their complaints public, offered training in serving special needs kids, and then staged a protest at the restaurant.
Finding themselves the target of the outrage machine, corporate Cracker Barrel publicly apologized and fired the manager and two of the employees. No statements by the manager or employees were provided.
As intended, readers went apeshit, enraged that special needs kids were denied their chance to eat out. The image of the disappointed kids having to accept take-out instead of eating in the dining room outraged many. Some commenters, likely without any restaurant experience, instructed Cracker Barrel on how they should have handled it. Many commenters called for boycotts and legal actions for “discrimination.” Racism even managed to raise its ugly head, with some commenters noting the irony of the “cracker” barrel name, even though the races involved were unknown.
My perspective is a little different. Obviously, anyone who would deliberately abuse a bunch of special needs kids is contemptible, but is that what actually occurred? Unlike the loudest critics, whose restaurant experience is probably limited to just paying people to bring them food and drink, I have actually worked in restaurants.
The work is stressful and strenuous. It gets worse when crowded, and it can be tough to adequately serve customers. Large groups are especially difficult to serve. Add the fact that
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This is a freelance position, with contributions expected twice a year. If you have a passion for food and the words to match, we’d love to hear from you!
these are special needs kids who are being trained in ordering and eating their meals and you can understand the amount of extra time and attention that would be required. It is obvious that this group would have been a challenge under ideal circumstances, much less while shorthanded.
Is it fair to force the other diners to share in this training? Kids are generally loud, and a large group of special needs kids is bound to be disruptive. Many Cracker Barrel customers have modest incomes, and their meal may be a special occasion that they had to budget for. It is easy for a wealthy person, who thinks that a meal at Cracker Barrel is no big deal, to suggest that they be good sports about having their experience ruined.
I wonder whether the teachers who complained had a realistic understanding of what they were asking of Cracker Barrel and the other diners? My impression is that they are dedicated people doing the admirable work of caring for kids with heartbreaking disabilities, who got “tunnel vision” and were unable to see beyond their mission. Anything that makes their kids unhappy offends them.
While it is always satisfying to focus your anger on faceless corporations, it was the fired restaurant staff who bore the brunt of the outrage. Nobody works in a budget restaurant like Cracker Barrel for riches or the fun of it, and most are just trying to make a living and get by. At the worst, the staff member acted carelessly in telling the school that no reservations were needed without asking about the size and needs of the group. No one acted maliciously. Not every story has a villain deserving punishment.
My point? I am not shilling for Cracker Barrel, having only eaten there once while stuck in Kingman, Arizona, getting my truck repaired during a heat wave. It was the high point of my stay. I am just suggesting that you show some empathy toward other perspectives the next time that you are treated to “outrage porn” pushing a victimization narrative and are tempted to grab a rope and form a mob.
There is probably a lot more to any such story than the exploitive publication is willing to reveal. Don’t be played. ∆
John Donegan is a retired attorney in Pismo Beach who liked the meatloaf and was grateful that he didn’t have to bus the tables. Send a response for publication to letters@ newtimesslo.com.
How effective do you think Cal Poly’s St. Patrick’s Day music festival will be?
64% Not at all! Students will still party in the streets.
27% Eh, it’s too early to say. Maybe?
6% None of my business. I’m locking my doors for the weekend.
3% Very! It will prevent any street/block parties.
Mary Ellen Eisemann
Mary Ellen Eisemann, age 93, was born on June 16, 1931, in San Luis Obispo and passed away peacefully on October 4, 2024. She enjoyed 69 years with her beloved husband Henry. Mary was a devoted partner whose love and commitment inspired all who knew her. Mary’s life was filled with a vibrant array of interests and passions. Her love for peacock feathers, dancing, flowers and music— especially her talents on the piano and accordion—brought her endless joy and brightened the lives of those around her. As the owner of The Way Station in Cayucos for 50 years, she also organized the annual Antique Engine Show, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. In addition, as a kindergarten teacher, she founded the Chinese New Year parade at Fremont School in Salinas. She obtained her pilot’s license in the 1950’s, and joined the women’s flying club called The 99’s. She loved the arts and music, was a natural property investor and manager, as well as dance instructor. Above all, she was a loving mother to two, a proud grandmother of five, and a great-grandmother to six; each one held a special place in her heart.
Mary was known for her beautiful blue eyes and radiant smile, which mirrored her generous spirit and warmth. Her love for Earl Grey tea, olallieberries, and her husband’s cooking were simple pleasures she cherished, and her welcoming presence made all feel at home. She was truly one of a kind, a rare gem whose kindness touched everyone she met. Mary leaves us with her cherished toast, “May we be this well off next year and if not, then no worse,” a reminder of her unwavering optimism and joy for life. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched.
BORN 1931, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA - DECEASED 2024
Information underload
Ihope CalCoastNews owner and “reporter” Karen Velie has her copy of Britney Spears “Oops! … I Did It Again” cued up, because she’s once again being sued for defamation. It’s a pretty sad and sordid tale involving alleged aliases, very important pickleball tournaments, and an Arizona community called Surprise. No foolin’!
The short version is that Velie wrote about former SLO resident Jody Bernat (formerly Jody Belsher), claiming she was living under an alias in Surprise with her legally separated husband, John Belsher, who was using the alias Jon Bailey and entering pickleball tournaments and presenting themselves as a married couple.
This is exactly the kind of outrage that Velie and CalCoastNews … Can. Not. Let. Stand. Velie’s expert journalism skills also uncovered Surprise resident and pickleball kingpin Steven Cable, who corroborated the pickleball “ruse.” Bernat is also suing Cable, and in an “I didn’t see that coming yes I did” revelation, Bernat’s ex-husband (or are they just separated?) John “Jon Bailey” Belsher is representing Jody in both defamation suits “because she has a meritorious claim, and I am available.”
Bailey-Belsher, a real estate and land use attorney, also has a $8.6 million fraud judgment to pay with his former partner, Ryan Wright (formerly known as Ryan Petetit—can no one stick to their given name? Sheesh!), whose development companies bilked investors Jeffrey and
Debora Chase out of millions.
In her defense, Bernat said she legally changed her name because, she claimed, she was being stalked and physically confronted by a person allegedly known to have unregistered weapons. A Maricopa County Superior Court granted the name change last October—so not an alias.
In his defense, and in a letter to Velie, John/Jon wrote, “I have used my legal name for all matters other than some pickleball events, where we used my nickname in order to keep Jody’s name private (officially sealed with the court for protection). At one point Jody offered to give you our side of things, but you told her, ‘No thanks, I have all the information I need.’”
Why mess up a perfectly juicy sensationalist nothing-burger story with more information that might not align with Velie’s agenda? Is it any wonder some people don’t believe in journalism anymore?
Hey, what’s that sucking sound? It’s 13,700 acre-feet of water being overdrawn from the Paso Robles Groundwater Basin every year. Yes, the ongoing saga continues, with the newest move by the Paso Robles City Council to join a shared management system that could carry out regulatory and administrative functions under the state’s
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act of 2014. I know, it sounds very dry for a wet, wet water issue, but it’s a juicy topic. Just ask the nearby residents who made their ire known at the March 4 meeting.
Public Works Director Christopher Alakel urged Paso to join four other groundwater sustainability agencies. Sounds great, right? So what’s got people’s panties in a bunch? The usual suspect: fees, which Alakel said each joint member could set based on a property’s usage. Use a lot, pay a lot. Use a little, pay little. What’s wrong with that?
Paso City Councilmember Chris Bausch thought only big users should pay, and that the suggested $12 to $20 annual fee for domestic or de minimis users (who don’t use a lot of water) was charging “the small guy for something they didn’t sign up for.”
Losing your shit over 20 bucks? Huh?
“Now if you ask me, not having a [joint powers authority] and having this ground water basin continue its state of decline, to me that’s far greater risk to those de minimis pumpers than it is to pay a $12 to $20 a year annual fee to ensure the long-term sustainability to their water supply,” Alakel countered.
Another problem with inaction is that the state could decide to take control of the basin. Isn’t local control better?
You know who’s out of control? Cuesta College President Jill Stearns! At least according to former Engineering
and Technology Division Chair John Stokes, who retired early in 2023 due to leadership issues. He told New Times, “Jill Stearns is a manager. She is not a leader. One of the classes that I teach is a professional development class, which works on workplace skills. She has none of those.”
Oh snap! He doesn’t seem to be alone in his assessment. A recent campuswide climate survey asked employees if it fosters an environment of job satisfaction among other areas, and the answer is: not so much. Only 17.7 percent of respondents said they felt that college leadership provides a climate of trust and openness.
Cuesta board trustee Debra Stakes can’t believe it! She thinks administration is very open and communicative
“Yet somehow, they’re not taking advantage of it,” Stakes said. “I don’t know what else we can do, maybe provide free food or something.”
Oh, yeah. That’s not dismissive or tonedeaf at all.
“I think one of the big problems is that the board of trustees is not doing their job,” said Stokes, who has also accused Stearns of retaliating against employees who challenge her. “They get their information through board meetings [instead of seeing] with their own eyes what’s going on.”
The Shredder informs, you decide. Tell it it’s wrong as heck at shredder@newtimesslo.com.
Hot Dates
ARTS
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
AQUARIUS 2025 WATERMEDIA
EXHIBIT Central Coast Watercolor
Society presents its annual juried exhibit at Art Center Morro Bay, featuring excellence in all forms of watermedia by California artists. See website for info and frequent updates. Through March 31 ccwsart.com/aquarius-2025prospectus. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 772-2504.
COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY
Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint. com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.
COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features
works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. ThursdaysSaturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. (559) 799-9632. costagallery. com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.
FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.
LELA SHAHRZAD WELCH: SOLO SHOW
Left Field Gallery is pleased to present
“ghosts-above_ghosts-below.dxf,” a solo show by Lela Shahrzad Welch, Los Osos-based artist and Cal Poly lecturer. March 15 , 5-7 p.m. Free. (805) 305–9292. leftfieldgallery.com. Left Field Gallery, 1036 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos.
PASTEL WORKSHOP WITH GREG TROMBLY This 3-day workshop will teach students of all levels how to work with soft pastels. Visit site for tickets and more info. March 19 -21, 1-4 p.m. $175. (805) 772-2504. artcentermorrobay. org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.
SPRING BLOOM WEEKEND Refresh your space with a stunning selection of plants, flowers, and garden essentials. Enjoy exclusive sales, hands-on workshops, and a special book reading. March 21 , 9 a.m.-5 p.m., March 22 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and March 23 , 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 927-4747. cambrianursery.com/ events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.
SUCCULENT FAIRY GARDEN
WORKSHOP Create your own enchanting miniature world at Cambria Nursery’s succulent fairy garden workshop. March 15 , 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $85. (805) 927-4747. cambrianursery.com/ events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.
UNCORK YOUR CREATIVITY: COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY Offering a unique opportunity to sip wine while painting stunning ocean-inspired landscapes. All materials included. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $60. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint.com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
DATE NIGHT Couples or friends, bring a bottle of wine and enjoy a creative night out. Have fun and get messy as the venue walks you through the basics of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Fridays, 6-8 p.m. $144. (805) 203-0335. thepotteryatascadero.com/datenight. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.
DIEGO IN PRINT An exhibition of works by Diego Huerta open Friday and Saturday afternoons. Fridays, Saturdays, 2-5 p.m. through April 6 (805) 440-7152. Pocket Gallery on Pine, 8491/2 13th Street, Paso Robles.
FAERIE GARDEN CLASS Peaceful
Plants is offering a faerie garden class. Purchasing a ticket to this kid-friendly class includes all materials. March 13 , 6:30 p.m. $40. my805tix.com. Golden State Goods, 5880 Traffic Way, Atascadero.
MARCH SILVERSMITHING
WORKSHOPS Learn the basics of silversmithing during this 3-hour workshop and make six-to-eight sterling silver ring stackers. New dates are added weekly. March 23 5-8 p.m. $95. (805) 464-2564. goldenstategoods.com. Golden State Goods, 5880 Traffic Way, Atascadero.
MOANA: A FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT ABOUT ADVENTURE AND SELFDISCOVERY Enjoy this family movie night filled with adventure, courage, and self-discovery with refreshments and brief discussion following the film. March 21 6-9 p.m. (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.org. Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living, 7350 El Camino Real, Ste. 101, Atascadero.
WHERE STROLL MEETS BODY
The Clark Center for the Performing Arts in Arroyo Grande opened its latest group exhibition, in collaboration with Nipomo’s Trilogy Art Group, in early March. The showcase highlights various media, including paintings by Janet Yu (the local artist behind Strolling on the Beach) and other Trilogy Art Group members, and is slated to remain on display through Wednesday, April 30. For more info on the Clark Center’s programming, visit clarkcenter.org.
—Caleb Wiseblood
ROMEO AND JULIET An exhibition of aerosolized acrylic paintings by Laguna Beach-based artist Joey Belardi. This solo exhibit features 11 paintings with a classic cartoon style inspired by the work of animators and comic artists such as Chuck Jones, Charles Schulz, Ralph Bakshi, and others. Through March 22 Cruise Control Gallery, 1075 Main St., Cambria, (805) 503-3820, cruisecontrolcambria.com/.
SEAHORSE GLASS SHARD CLASS
Inspired by the “paint-by-number” technique, create a clear sun catcher or slump into a single layer plate. For the detailed orientated student. March 15 10 a.m.-noon $60. (805) 464-2633. glassheadstudio.com. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, Atascadero.
SHIBORI-INSPIRED SUSHI SET
WORKSHOP Create a Shibori-inspired fused glass Sushi Set using glass with pre-fired designs. This would include a sushi serving tray (7” x 11”) and two dipping bowls (3.5”). March 22 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $225. (805) 464-2633. glassheadstudio.com. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, Atascadero.
SHORT FORM IMPROV CLASS AT TOP GRADE COMEDY THEATER Join instructor Charles Charm, an improvisor with 10 years of experience, to learn how to play improvgames. Classes are drop in only at this time. Shows TBD. Fridays, 6-8 p.m. $25. (530) 748-6612. Saunter Yoga and Wellness, 5820 Traffic Way, Atascadero.
SILVERSMITH WORKSHOPS: BASICS AND STONE SETTING Join to learn the basics of silversmithing and form, solder and finish 6-8 simple sterling silver ring stackers. The art of stone setting will also be explained, where participants
will set a Cabochon stone in a sterling ring. Sundays. through April 30 $95-$110. (805) 464-2564. goldenstategoods.com/ workshops. Golden State Goods, 5880 Traffic Way, Atascadero.
SIP N’ SKETCH/SIP N’ PAINT Bring your own supplies (or borrow some of our’s) and paint or sketch a themed live-model or still life under the guidance of Studios resident artists. See website for the specific theme of the month. Your first glass of wine is included in price. Third Saturday of every month, 6-9 p.m. $20. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.
TAKE A SPIN: TWO-HOUR WHEEL
CLASS These two hour blocks provide an opportunity to learn the basics of wheel throwing. Instructors will center your clay for you, so you will have the opportunity to make two items. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon $72. (805) 203-0335. thepotteryatascadero.com/ wheelclasses. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.
WRITERS WANTED Novelists, screenwriters, poets and short story writers welcome. This group meets in Atascadero twice a month, on Thursday nights (email jeffisretired@ yahoo.com for specifics). Hone your skills for publication and/or personal development. Third Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. Unnamed Atascadero location, Contact host for details, Atascadero.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES
Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus exposure to Los Angeles talent agents. All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam
Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present
for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
ARC CIRCUS: A BEE STORY This uniquely Australian physical theater show for children and families uses circus, acrobatics, dance, and live music to tell the story of Queen Bee and Worker Bee who must work together to rebuild their hive after it is destroyed by a bushfire. March 15 2 p.m. Starts at $27. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts.org. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/gallery-artists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
BANG THE BRUNCH DRAG SHOW Drag performers include Nala Diamond, Juicy CW, Aria Cummingtonite, Omen, and Cherry Von Illa. March 16 , 12-3 p.m. my805tix.com. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo.
CENTRAL COAST COMEDY THEATER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW An ongoing improv comedy program featuring the CCCT’s Ensemble. Grab some food at the public market’s wonderful eateries and enjoy the show upstairs. Second Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. $10. my805tix. com/e/improv-comedy-1-10. SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo.
CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
COURTESY IMAGE BY JANET YU
CREATIVITY DAYS WITH THE SILK ARTISTS OF CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST An opportunity to work on your own projects and materials while picking up new skills among friends. Note: this event is held mostly every third Monday (attendees are asked to call or email to confirm ahead of time). Third Monday of every month $5; first session free. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 747-4200.
DAISY PATTON: BEFORE THESE WITNESSES Check out Massachusettsbased artist Daisy Patton and her work, which includes large scale, mixed media paintings with found photographs layered with vibrant colors and floral patterns. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through March 14 Free. (805) 546-3202. cuesta.edu. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
DAVID NIHILL Spend an evening with bestselling writer and touring comedian David Nihill. Visit site for tickets and more info. March 20 , 8 p.m. $40. slobrew.com. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.
ESTEBAN CABEZA DE BACA:
REMEMBERING THE FUTURE Ranging from 2015 to 2024, the eleven paintings in the gallery explore issues of belonging and identity, activism, and joy and celebration. Through June 22, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP:
LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
GUYS & DOLLS SLO High School Theatre Company Presents Guys & Dolls a musical fable of Broadway. March 13
7-9 p.m., March 14 , 7-9 p.m. and March 15 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. $12. (805) 596-4040. slohs.slcusd.org/student-life/slohsperforming-arts-company. San Luis Obispo High School, 1499 San Luis Dr., San Luis Obispo.
JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. (702) 335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.
ODDFELLOWS OPEN MIC Bring your music, improv, standup, magic, and dance talents. Each act gets five minutes. Audience votes for favorite. Third Saturday of every month, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 234-0456. Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo.
OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP WITH DREW DAVIS An oil painting workshop fit for beginners where you can unleash your creativity in a warm, cozy art studio atmosphere. March 23 1-3:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Drew Davis Fine Art, 393 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.
OPEN MIC COMEDY Sign-ups at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. Mondays, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 540-8300. saintsbarrel.com/event-calendar. Saints Barrel Wine Bar, 1021 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.
PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com). Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.
THE SEASONAL MUSE: ART AND TEA
GATHERING Head to Wellstone Studio for a relaxing evening of tea, seasonal meditation, contemplation, and creative exploration. Visit site to reserve a spot and get more details. March 20 5:307:30 p.m. $40. (619) 807-7006. inariteaart. com. Wellstone Studio, 4985 Davenport Creek Road, San Luis Obispo.
SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN
MIC NIGHT Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 5482337, libertinebrewing.com.
VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING
WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors. To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE STUDIO
COMPANY Experience ballet’s future with ABT Studio Company—elite young dancers fusing classical mastery and innovation, launching tomorrow’s stars on stages worldwide. March 14 8 p.m. $45-$75; Platinum $85. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ abt-studio-company/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
CHARACTERS AND RELATIONSHIPS:
IMPROVISATIONAL THEATER CLASS
Learn to access emotion in the moment, build characters and relationships on emotional perspectives, and use patterns of emotional behaviors to drive scenes forward. Sundays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through April 13 $80. (805) 556-8495. improvforgood.fun/. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande.
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
FREE MOVIE NIGHT IN THE SECRET
GARDEN: LEPRECHAUN (1993) Watch this cult-classic horror-comedy under the stars in the secret garden. Get more info and RSVP at the link. March 21 , 8 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, (805) 595-7302.
FUNNIES FOR FOOD IMPROV SHOW
Come for great Mexican food and stay for laughter at this improv show to raise funds for The People’s Kitchen of SLO. Visit site for more info to this event. March 22 7-8:30 p.m. $10 suggested donation. improvforgood.fun/. La Casita, 1572 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
THE GAME’S AFOOT Step into the mystery of a lifetime with William Gillette, as the acclaimed actor, known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes, hosts a star-studded Christmas Eve at his eccentric Connecticut mansion. The plot thickens when one guest meets a tragic end. Through March 23 my805tix.
com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SANCTUARY CITY In this powerful coming-of-age story, two teens forge a deep bond amid the complexities of immigration, identity, belonging, and love. Presented by PCPA. Through March 16 pcpa.org. Severson Theatre, 800 S. College Dr., Santa Maria.
CULTURE
& LIFESTYLE
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
“KINDNESS INSIDE OUT” ENRICHMENT CLASS AND SOUND JOURNEY Join for a heart-opening kindness practice and discussion coupled with an integrative sound journey. Visit site to register and get more information. March 18 , 6-7:30 p.m. $18-$29. my805tix.com. Central Coast Body Therapy Center, 2005 9th St., Los Osos, (805) 709-2227.
CENTRAL COAST UECHI-RYU KARATE-
DO Uechi-Ryu Karate-do is a traditional form of karate originating from Okinawa, Japan. Focus is on fitness, flexibility, and self-defense with emphasis on self -growth, humility, and respect. Open to ages 13 to adult. Beginners and experienced welcome. Instructor with 50 years experience. For info, call 805-215-8806. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278, morro-bay.ca.us.
EMPOWER KICKBOXING: BE ROOTED
SO YOU CAN BLOOM! An empowering kickboxing workshop designed exclusively for WMW, where you’ll not only learn the art of kickboxing, but also harness the power of your mind. March 15 9-11 a.m. my805tix.com. From the
Send event information to events@newtimesslo.com or submit online.
Roots Up Healing Studio, 2055 9th St., Los Osos.
IF YOUR BODY COULD TALK ... WHAT WOULD IT SAY? Bypass the mind’s limits and tap into your body’s wisdom. Through movement, writing, and drawing, unlock creativity, spark fresh insights, and discover new possibilities within. March 15 2-5 p.m. $40. (707) 266-8945. 9thlimbyoga.com/events. 9th Limb Yoga, 845 Napa Ave., Morro Bay. LOS OSOS SUNDAY MEDITATION CLASS Sitting with a supportive group strengthens one’s meditation practice. Join us for a weekly talk on topics related to meditation and consciousness plus silent and guided meditation. Facilitated by Devin Wallace. Beginners welcome. Email devinwalla@gmail.com for more information. Sundays, 10:15 a.m.-11:15 p.m. By donation. (805) 709-2227. inner-workings.com. Central Coast Body Therapy Center, 2005 9th St., Los Osos. MANDALA RHYTHMS CIRCLE Mandala is an ancient Sanskrit word meaning “sacred circle.” Join this circle for a journey of drumming, rhythm-making, improvisation, and vocal expression. Get tickets and more info at the link. March 23 12-2 p.m. $26. my805tix.com. From the Roots Up Healing Studio, 2055 9th St., Los Osos. MEDITATE WITH DAWN Instructor will prompt you to meditate with cues that encourage you to tune into your breathing, absorb your surroundings and CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 14
Thepo Tulku Rinpoche will conduct the Tibetan Blue Buddha Empowerment ceremony at the White Heron Sangha in Avila Beach on Saturday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to noon. This type of empowerment is described as a ritual transmission of spiritual power from a teacher to students, enabling them to engage deeply with the blue-colored Medicine Buddha. Admission is free, while donations are welcome. Visit whiteheronsangha.org for more info.
—C.W.
physical sensations, and to stay present in the here and now. March 15 10-11:15 a.m. my805tix.com. Aurora Sacred Events, 21 24th St, Cayucos.
MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS
DISCUSSION GROUP A group of metaphysically minded individuals that have been meeting for many years now in the Coalesce Chapel. Club offers a supportive metaphysical based community. Members discuss a different topic each week. All are welcome to join. Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10-$15. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.
SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP Have a topic, book, or article you wish to discuss with interested and interesting people? Join this weekly meeting to discuss it, or simply contribute your experiences and knowledge. Contact Mark Plater for instructions on entering the Chapel area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon (805) 5287111. Coalesce Garden Chapel, 845 Main St., Morro Bay.
OPEN FLOW: DANCE AND MOVEMENT A community of movers and shakers who come together to express themselves through dance and movement. Inspired by a variety of conscious movement modalities, Open Flow is led by Silvia Suarez and Matt Garrity, embodiment teachers who share a passion for integration through movement exploration. Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. $10 (general), $5 (ages 55 and older). SilviaAthaSomatics.org. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278.
SHAMANIC MORNING RITUALS FOR VITALITY Hosted by Aurora Sacred Events. March 14 8:30-9:45 a.m. my805tix.com/. Aurora Sacred Events, 21 24th St, Cayucos.
YOGA PLUS A hybrid of yoga and “stretching” techniques that yield a body that moves and feels amazing. Mondays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $10 per session. (415) 516-5214. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.
ZEN IN MOTION Learn the Shaolin Water Style and other deep breathing and moving meditation techniques with the 2019 Taijiquan Instructor of the Year. Beginners Welcome.Instructor Certification Courses available. Mondays, Wednesdays Call for details. (805) 7017397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
BALANCE FLOW Suitable for all levels. This class is meant to benefit the mindbody connection while emphasizing safe and effective alignment as well as breath awareness and relaxation. Please call to register in advance. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $16-$22; $50 membership. (805) 434-9605. ttrtennis.com/fitness/yoga/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.
BEER YOGA AT ANCIENT OWL SLO Join Jes from Saunter Yoga and Wellness during this hybrid yoga class where one can practice yoga while drinking beer during their practice. Get tickets and more info at the link. March 22 , 10-11 a.m. $27. my805tix.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero, (805) 460-6042.
GODDESS GROUP Please join Oracle Owner/Intuitive Medium, Tiffany Klemz, for this twice monthly, Goddess Group. The intention of this group is to curate connection, inspiration, unity, and empowerment. Every other Tuesday, 6:30-8 p.m. $11. (805) 464-2838. oracleatascaderoca.com. Oracle, 6280 Palma Ave., Atascadero.
GUIDED MEDITATION WITH KAREN
LEARY AT AWAKENING WAYS
Experience guided meditations every Wednesday evening in a supportive space. Connect with your inner self and discover peace, healing, and self-awareness. Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.org.
Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living, 7350 El Camino Real, Ste. 101, Atascadero.
HAMBLY LAVENDER FARM GUIDED
EXPERIENCE This one-hour walk about the farm immerses you in the processes of growing, harvesting, and drying this fragrant herb. Saturdays, Sundays, 10 a.m. my805tix.com. Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel.
SANTA LUCIA ROCKHOUNDS MEETING
Bring your favorite rock, gem, crystal, fossil, etc., to show the rest of the club. Third Monday of every month, 7 p.m. slrockhounds.org/. Templeton Community Center, 601 S. Main St., Templeton.
VINYASA YOGA FLOW The class prioritizes increasing mental acuity and improving body and muscle flexibility. A restorative and gentle yoga focusing on breathing and targeting specific areas of the body. Please call to register in advance. Sundays, 12-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $16-$22; $50 membership. (805) 434-9605. ttrtennis. com/yoga. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.
WISDOM EVENINGS WITH TIBETAN
BUDDHIST MONK GESHE LOBSANG
TSETAN Join Tibetan Buddhist monk Geshe Lobsang Tsetan for three evenings of teachings and meditation on mindfulness, loving-kindness, and compassion. This event is free to attend, and donations are appreciated. March 13 6:30 p.m. and March 14 , 6-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.
org/event/wisdom-evenings-withgeshe-lobsang-tsetan/. Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living, 7350 El Camino Real, Ste. 101, Atascadero.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA
Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.
CENTRAL COAST JR. LEGO CHALLENGE SLOCA is delighted to host the Central Coast Jr. LEGO Challenge. Kids ages 5 to 12 are invited to come play, learn, and discover with LEGOs. March 22 9 a.m.-noon $20-$35. (805) 548-8700. sloclassical.org/lego/. SLO Classical Academy, 165 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.
CENTRAL COAST POLYAMORY Hosting a discussion group featuring different topics relating to ethical non-monogamy every month. Third Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. galacc.org/ events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and about the development of this area. Tours, led by docents, are free at 1:15 p.m Monday through Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Sundays, 2-3 p.m. and Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Free. (657) 465-9182. missionsanluisobispo. org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. FREE VIRTUAL QPR SUICIDE PREVENTION TRAINING For participants to learn about community resources in Santa Barbara County and be able to recognize the warning signs of suicide CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 15
Hot Dates
for parents and adults (ages 18 and over) who work or live with youth between ages of 12-18. Offered in partnership with Family Services Agency of Santa Barbara and thanks to a grant from SAMHSA. March 18 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 770-1593. youthwell.org/mental-health-first-aid. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
FROM THE OCEAN TO YOUR PLATE: HOW YOU CAN MAKE
SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD CHOICES Join the conversation to explore various commercial fishing methods, as well as fish farming and its impacts on the marine environment. Learn how to make healthy seafood choices that to help sustain the world’s fisheries and environment. March 19 1-3 p.m. $10. my805tix.com. Oddfellows Hall, 520 Dana Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-0876.
GALA PRIDE AND DIVERSITY CENTER BOARD MEETING (VIA ZOOM) Monthly meeting of the Gala Pride and Diversity Center Board of Directors. Meets virtually via Zoom and is open to members of the public. Visit galacc.org/events to fill out the form to request meeting access. Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. No admission fee. galacc.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
HANDSPRINGS AND AERIALS CLINIC Beginners can start working on the fundamentals of these intermediate skills. All levels welcome. For ages 5 to 17. March 15 , 1-3 p.m. $25 for the first child, plus $10 per additional sibling. (805) 5471496. performanceathleticsslo.com/saturday-event-clinics. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
HEALTHY LIVING FOR BRAIN AND BODY This class teaches the latest research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity, and social engagement. March 13 3-4:30 p.m. Free. alz.org. Chumash Village, 3057 S Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, (510) 301-1286.
HOW BEST TO SUPPORT FRIENDS IN NEED This group discussion course will review recommended listening practices and practical crisis management techniques. Because we have to take care of ourselves in order to take care of others, it will also offer tips on how to avoid compassion fatigue and helper exhaustion. March 14 1-3 p.m. my805tix.com. Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo.
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE: RESILIENT AND CARBONSEQUESTERING CITIES Building A Better SLO invites you to join an insightful conversation with Vincent Martinez, President and COO of Architecture 2030, “a leading organization dedicated to solving the climate crisis through the decarbonization of the built environment.” Get tickets and more info so you don’t miss the opportunity to hear from “one of the leading voices in climate-responsive design and policy.” March 13 5:45-7:30 p.m. $18. my805tix.com. The Penny, 664 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo.
KIDS’ PARTY PARADISE: CLOVER CAPER Drop your kids off at Kids’ Party Paradise for pizza, a movie, and gymnastics fun while you get an evening off. For ages 4 to 13; no experience necessary. March 15 , 5-9:30 p.m. $50-$70. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/kids-party-paradise. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
NAMI FAMILY TO FAMILY EIGHT-WEEK CLASS: MENTAL ILLNESS INFO AND SUPPORT For family, friends, and significant others of adults with mental health conditions. Provides evidence-based information and support. Registration required. March 17, 6 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Free. (805)748-1889. namislo.org. Unitarian Universalist Church, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo.
SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets at the SLO Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors are welcome. Third Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. Stamp Collector? The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets in the SLO UMC Conference Room on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors welcome. For more info, contact SLOPS at slostampclub@gmail.com. Third Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. (805) 801-9112. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, slocity. org/seniors.
SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN MONTHLY GET-TOGETHERS SLO RAMs is a group of retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Third Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $31 luncheon. retiredactivemen.org/. Madonna Inn Garden Room, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.
SPRING EQUINOX CEREMONY OF FEMININE REBIRTH A celebration of rebirth. As we witness the return of the wild flowers and wild life coming out of their winter slumber, we too honor the rebirth of our divine vitality and life force energy. March 22 2-4:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.
SPRING EQUINOX: DRUMMING AND NATURE WALK Head to Eagles Landing Ranch to celebrate the arrival of spring. This special spring equinox gathering includes a drumming circle followed by a nature walk. Get more info or register in advance at the link. March 22 , 12-4 p.m. $40. my805tix.com. Eagles Landing Ranch, 4615 Prefumo Canyon Road, San Luis Obispo.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 17
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MARCH 15
ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION
Doors will open at 6p.m. with music starting 7. Beverages, beer, wine, and food will be available for purchase, and dinner will be served. Visit site for tickets and more info. March 14 7-9 p.m. $16. my805tix.com. CongregationHouse, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo.
SYYNC MIXER Held at SYYNC Studio—a new space in SLO designed for collaboration, connection, and conscious living. This is your chance to experience the magic of SYYNC firsthand. March 19 , 5 p.m. my805tix.com. SYYNC Studio, 871 Froom Ranch Way, San Luis Obispo.
TRICKZONE (PARKOUR AND TUMBLING) CLINIC Experience
this 2-hour combo of tumbling and parkour, which takes kids from timid to triumphant. All levels welcome, for children 7-17 years. March 22 1-3 p.m. $25/ 1st child, +$10 per additional sibling.. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/saturdayevent-clinics. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
BLUE BUDDHA EMPOWERMENT Thepo
Tulka Rinpoche will be conducting the Blue Buddha Empowerment ceremony. It is a ritual transmission of spiritual power from teacher to students. March 15 10 a.m.-noon Donation. White Heron Sangha Meditation Center, 6615 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, whiteheronsangha.org.
BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS
CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. (970) 710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT: THE WHAT, WHEN, AND HOW OF IN-HOME CARE
This examines how to prepare for future care decisions and changes, including respite care, residential care, and endof-life care. In collaboration with Home Matters Caregiving. March 19 10-11:30 a.m. Free. St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 301 Trinity Way, Arroyo Grande.
MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS
FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS
A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
SOUTH COUNTY ADVISORY COUNCIL
ANNOUNCES 2025 ELECTIONS South County Advisory Council announces 2025 elections; South County Advisory Council (SCAC) of San Luis Obispo County. March 17 5-8 p.m. Free. (805) 441-1512. Nipomo Community Service District, 148 S. Wilson St., Nipomo, scac. ca.gov.
A SPLASH OF WINE AND WHALES:
A CELEBRATION OF STEWARDSHIP
Guests of the event can look forward to
IT’S CHILI, OUTSIDE
The 2025 Buellton Wine and Chili Festival will take place at Buellton’s Flying Flags RV Resort, on Sunday, March 16, from noon to 4:30 p.m. Attendees can look forward to sizzling chili and salsa tastings, local wines, craft brews, spirits, live music, and more. To find out more about the festival or purchase tickets, visit buelltonwineandchilifestival.com.
—C.W.
enjoying wine, small bites, a raffle with proceeds supporting whale conservation efforts, a panel with marine scientists and advocates, and a keynote talk with whale conservationist Adam Ernster. March 15 , 6 p.m. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach, (805) 773-5000, cliffshotelandpsa.com.
FOOD & DRINK
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BREAKFAST ON THE BAY A monthly occasion that brings together the passionate citizens and business owners of the greater Estero Bay region in one place to deepen connections and share information. Breakfast is included with ticket price. Third Wednesday of every month, 7:30-9 a.m. $20 per member; $25 per non-member. (805) 772-4467. morrochamber.org. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay.
MORRO BAY MAIN STREET FARMERS
MARKET Get fresh and veggies, fruit, baked goods, sweets, and handmade artisan crafts. Come have some fun with your local farmers and artisans and enjoy delicious eats while enjoying the fresh breeze of Morro Bay. Saturdays, 2:30-5:30 p.m. Varies. (805) 824-7383. morrobayfarmersmarket.com. Morro Bay Main Street Farmers Market, Main Street and Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
CLUB CAR BAR TRIVIA WITH DR. RICKY
Teams of one to six people welcome. Visit site for more info. Wednesdays, 7-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.
GREAT GATSBY GALA: DECADENCE AND DIAMONDS FOUR-COURSE DINNER WITH CCC Join for an unforgettable evening of glamor, fine dining, and unparalleled entertainment. Visit site for tickets and more info. March 23 5 p.m. Single Seats $100, Full Tables $900-$1200. (805) 546-3198. Park Ballroom, 1232 Park St. #200, Paso Robles.
HOPS AND VINES DINNER Dine with ONX Wines and enjoy a lobster feed dinner with beer and wine. Get tickets and more information at the link. March 22 6 p.m. $150. (805) 434-5607. onxwines.com. ONX Wines, 2910 Limestone Way, Paso Robles.
RHONE RANGERS EXPERIENCE
Described as the biggest Rhone wine event of the year. With 77 wineries from multiple states participating. March 22
TACO TUESDAYS La Parilla Taqueria will be in the courtyard serving up their delicious tacos and tostadas. Menu typically includes barbacoa, chicken, and pastor tacos, as well as shrimp ceviche tostadas. Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. (805) 460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden. com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.
NAME THAT NOISE: MUSIC TRIVIA A monthly special music-only trivia at Oak and Otter Brewing Co. Call ahead to reserve a table. Second Thursday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-2529.
SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
TRIVIA NIGHT Reservations are no longer required to play. Reservations are now for teams who want to guarantee a table to play. Tables available first come, first serve. Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. my805tix.com. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
INGREDIENT PROFILE FORUM: FLOUR IS ON THE TABLE There will be topics on food import, export, production, processing, crop value, gluten free options, store pricing, and recipe sharing. Registration is required. March 22 , 1:30-3:30 p.m. Free. (805) 619-7351. slolibrary.org. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.
ITALIAN CATHOLIC FEDERATION
LENTEN FISH FRY The St. Patrick’s Italian Catholic Federation (I.C.F.) is hosting a Lenten Fish Fry. There will be a cash bar and dessert table, and take outs are available. Fridays, 4-7 p.m. through April 11 $10-$20. St. Patrick’s Church, 501 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, stpatsag.org.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
2025 BUELLTON WINE AND CHILI FESTIVAL Sample from more than 30 wineries, craft breweries, chili and salsa vendors, and more. March 16 12-4:30 p.m. $65. buelltonwineandchilifestival. com/. Flying Flags RV Resort, 180 Ave. Of The Flags, Buellton, (805) 688-3716. ∆
PHOTO COURTESY OF FLYING90
Burgundy Blues Presented By Vinylistics
MARCH 22 Libertine Brewing Company, SLO
Jeff Livingstone Band with Katie Chappell
SATURDAY, MARCH 22 Club Car Bar, Templeton
Mandala Rhythms Circle SUNDAY, MARCH 23 From the Roots Up, Los Osos
Reminitions, Last Of Our Kind, Nott, Idle Mind SUNDAY, MARCH 23 Humdinger Brewing, SLO
Oil Painting Workshop with Drew Davis SUNDAY, MARCH 23 Drew Davis Fine Art, SLO
Co-Creation Project VII: The French Connection
MARCH 23 Harold J. Miossi Cultural PAC, SLO
ATown Beer Festival After Party Feat. 90’s Babiez SATURDAY, MARCH 22 Blast & Brew, Atascadero
Spring Equinox
EquinoxDrumming & Nature Walk
MARCH 22 Eagles Landing Ranch, SLO
SLOFunny Comedy Show: Headliner Lamont Ferguson
MARCH 28
Wines, Paso Robles
Arts
Catch the buzz
ARC Circus: A Bee Story comes to Cal Poly’s Spanos Theatre on Saturday, March 15 (2 to 2:45 p.m.; all ages; $34 at calpolyarts.org).
Weather permitting, attendees are invited to join in pre-show familyfriendly activities outside the theater before the performance.
“A Bee Story is a uniquely Australian physical theater show for children and families incorporating a kaleidoscope of circus, acrobatics, dance, and live music,” Cal Poly Arts announced.
“It tells the story of Queen Bee and Worker Bee who must work together to rebuild their hive after being destroyed by a bushfire. Join the bees on their buzzy adventures and be enchanted by their pollen-collecting skills, honey-making abilities, and super bee strength.”
According to its website, ARC Circus is “in the business of celebrating and creating extraordinary stories and bringing them to our audiences, through the power of circus, dance, and theater. A multi-talented group of individuals bound by art, invention, and curiosity.
“A Bee Story—directed by performer Robbie Curtis (Circa, Cirque du Soleil, Circus Oz, Australian Ballet)—has themes of environmentalism, sustainability, and community spirit.”
Local beauty
Central Coast photographer Teresa Ferguson is showing a collection of her photographs in Upper Gallery II in Morro Bay’s Gallery on Marina Square (601 Embarcadero, suite 10), and they’re utterly gorgeous: beautiful sunsets, lovely flowers, a ladybug adorning a garden Buddha statue, sunlight streaming through pier pylons.
Her artist statement notes that she’s originally a painter with an artistic eye that “eventually found a new canvas in the form of her camera’s lens. With a keen sense of composition and an unwavering appreciation for beauty, she has honed her craft, capturing the incredible scenes that grace the Central Coast and beyond. Through her work, Teresa shows us the scenes that unfold before her lens—majestic mountains, ever-changing clouds, diverse wildlife, and hidden beaches all come alive in her images.
“Her artistic skill extends far beyond the natural world, as she also expertly chronicles the human experience, masterfully preserving the joy and emotion of weddings, events, and portrait sessions.”
You can see more of her work on her Instagram page, @teresa_ferguson_artphoto/, with examples of weddings photos and portraits.
Gallery at Marina Square is a fine arts and crafts gallery run by a community of professional artists.
Ferguson’s show hangs through March 30. ∆
—Glen Starkey
BY GLEN STARKEY
Rise up
Indigenous artist
Esteban Cabeza de Baca’s work celebrates diversity and inclusion
Activism is in Esteban Cabeza de Baca’s blood.
He was born into a family of labor activists who traveled between California and New Mexico. His work celebrates the civil movements that fought for marginalized communities’ rights and celebrates those communities themselves. Now a collection of 11 of his colorful, large-scale, surrealistic works painted between 2015 to 2024 hang at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art (SLOMA).
“I think the last solo show we had by a Latinx artist was Marela Zacarías in 2023, so it was time to engage Latinx artists more meaningfully in the museum,” Chief Curator Emma Saperstein explained. “Actually, in June will be the rst time that both galleries are hosting work by a Latinx artist.”
Emerging California artist Deanna Barahona will present a multi-media exhibition from June 6 through Aug. 31.
“Esteban’s work is incredibly timely,” Saperstein said. “It’s so much about migrant labor, Indigenous identity, peaceful protest, vocalizing desires and needs from the community, and advocating for that with joy.”
In his artist’s talk, Cabeza de Baca explained his process.
“I do primarily observation paintings where I go outdoors and paint from observing the landscape and do it as quickly and honestly as possible,” he said.
e body of work on display is the result of “that baseline process,” he noted, mostly painted in New Mexico.
“I like to think about it as building multiple dimensions or multiple layers of seen imagery from a speci c site,” Cabeza de Baca said.
In one painting of northern New Mexico where Georgia O’Kee e painted, he explained, “I’m
See the exhibition
Memories of the Future is a collection of 11 large-scale paintings by indigenous artist Esteban Cabeza de Baca hanging at the San Luis Museum of Art through June 22.
According to the SLOMA, “Esteban Cabeza de Baca’s paintings dance between histories, landscapes, and time—speaking to his ancestry and inviting visitors to consider all stories of immigration, Indigenous identity, and resistance.”
Find more information at sloma.org/exhibition/estebancabeza-de-baca.
thinking about ecological thinking, how plants see, how ecosystems relate, and also thinking how that could be related to our worldviews. Instead of being so individual and competitive, how we could model ourselves toward being more ecological, how some plants grow next to one another and how some plants don’t.”
He also noted surrealistic in uences in his work, inspired by artists such as Frida Kahlo, Yves Tanguy, Salvador Dali, and Diego Rivera.
“I’m also really interested in dream journals, how you can document your dreams and then turn your dreams into a psychosphere of looking internally as a landscape inside your mind and subconscious,” he said.
often think about political activism as aggressive and angry.
“But in a lot of Esteban’s work, it’s inviting us to engage with joy in these conversations. I’m thinking of the work March to Sacramento—the painting of the Delano grape strikers and these goofy, long-legged people with the ladybugs inviting people to join them in resistance but full of joy and delight,” she said. “ at’s really inspiring to me personally, and I think it’s a timely moment.”
Many ideas and in uences populate his work. He’s also into “witchcraft and indigenous ways of knowing, and casting spells through painting, and how painting is a form of magic,” Cabeza de Baca said. He’s inspired by ancient petroglyphs and recommends people visit some in person.
“You’re literally standing right where the artist stood when making it, and you’re also in community with all these di erent ecologies,” he said.
Even modern-day gra ti nds its way into his work.
Send gallery, stage, and cultrual festivities to arts@newtimesslo.com.
His father was a Chicano activist at UC San Diego and a bodyguard for Marxist feminist political activist and academic Angela Davis. California’s then Gov. Ronald Reagan got Davis red from her UCSD teaching job, and she was also under threat by the KKK. ese childhood experiences shaped Cabeza de Baca’s worldviews. He was also inspired by civil rights activist Cesar Chavez, the Delano grape strikes, and Chavez’s ght for agricultural workers’ rights.
“It’s a lot of intersectional, interracial, and intergender solidarity that I’m interested in. It’s something we’re going to have to think about for democracy to exist,” he said.
Some paintings have ladybugs, which symbolize a healthy ecosystem, while others don’t, “because they were using pesticides at that time.”
Curator Saperstein said that we
“I’m also really interested in the history of folk music and protest by people like Bob Seger to even people like Bob Dylan, and how that was intertwined in the histories of Mexican music, rancheros,” Cabeza de Baca said. “Painting is silent. I like painting because I don’t have to talk. I can make the painting, and it could talk for me. But how do you actually convey sound through it?
“Finding ways to tap into certain messages, like simplicity of storytelling like folk music has, is inspiring to me, the utility of it.”
Other parts of his work are about a “land acknowledgement.”
“My mom’s from Tijuana, and I was born just on the other side. I want us to think about the land that we’re on now, who used to call this place home, whether it’s Chumash or Indigenous communities like the Yaqui or even the Aztecs or Apache, for us to think about that type of history and the continued colonial segregation and apartheid state that exists from where I grew up [in Tijuana],” he said.
He has Indigenous blood from both parents, and it’s informed how he thinks.
“ e beautiful thing about humanity is that culture is changing, and more and more interracial people will rise in this country,” Cabeza de Baca said, “and I think we should celebrate that rather than being fearful.” ∆
Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.
CIVIC JOY March to Sacramento (2024) features protesting agricultural workers, but rather than depicting aggression, it depicts joyous community, with ladybugs representing a heathy ecosystem.
IMAGE COURTESY OF ESTEBAN CABEZA DE BACA AND GARTH GREENAN GALLERY
IDENTITY AND ACTIVISM Many of Indigenous artist Esteban Cabeza de Baca’s surrealist paintings celebrate marginalized communities. His work hangs in the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art through June 22.
To die for
Writer-director Bong Joon-ho (Parasite, Snowpiercer, e Host) adapts Ashton Edward’s 2022 scinovel Mickey7 to the big screen, with Robert Pattinson as Mickey 17, an “expendable” clone worker whose body can be regrown after he dies, with his memories largely intact. On a dangerous journey to colonize an ice planet, he experiences multiple deaths … until something goes wrong. (137 min.)
MICKEY 17
What’s it rated? R
What’s it worth, Anna? Full price
What’s it worth, Glen? Full price
Where’s it showing? Bay, Colony, Downtown Centre, Palm, Park, Stadium 10, Sunset Drive-In
Glen is delicious satire skewers capitalism, colonialism, wealth inequity, class warfare, racism, and more. Mickey Barnes is a hapless loser who needs to get o Earth quick before a loan shark kills him. Essentially skill-less, he accepts the only space mission job that requires nothing—no education, special skills, nor talents. He just has to be willing to die over and over again. e mission is led by failed politician turned demagogue Kenneth Marshall (Mark Ru alo), a very Trumpian leader: egomaniacal, unctuous, unethical, and empathy-free. Yet, Marshall’s got fanatical followers who think he’s amazing and live for his goal of making a new “white” society. Sound familiar?
Anna I’m more and more impressed with Pattinson with every lm. e actor has certainly outgrown his teen boy heartthrob Twilight (2008) moment to become a true acting force. Here he has an even trickier job, playing two versions of Mickey as 17 and 18; 18 has a harder edge, a “let the world burn” attitude, while meek Mickey 17 cares most about Nasha (Naomi Ackie) and getting to live a life where dying isn’t the headline. Ru alo makes his character so sadly believable that it’s hard to watch, as does Toni Colette as his sauce-obsessed wife
HIGH POTENTIAL
What’s it rated? TV-14
When? 2024-present
Where’s it showing? Hulu
Kaitlin Olson helms this comedy series that follows single mom of three Morgan Gillory as she navigates a new career with the LAPD after the department learns of her high IQ and knack for solving crime. Olson is always funny, in that sharp-tongued, eye-rolling signature way that made us all fall in love with her as Dee in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
While this sort of sitcom-mystery show can sometimes prove repetitious, Olson’s charm and the writers’ wit manage to keep this series from
Ylba. e two are utterly disgusting, and adding to the e ect is a set of white chiseled chompers that take up so much space in Ru alo’s visage. His villainous character feels far too close to reality. Kudos to Bong Joonho for laying it out plain as day. Tough to watch in moments, but Mickey 17 has earned its accolades.
Glen Pattinson is terri c and has come a long way from Twilight. He showed his range in e Rover (2014) and Good Time (2017), and proved he was one of his generation’s best with e Lighthouse (2019). His Mickey 17 is resigned and meek, and deeply surprised when he falls into an ice crevice and the planet’s native species, creatures that look like giant wooly pill bugs with weird mouths and wise elephant eyes, don’t eat him and instead carry him up to the surface, saving his life. Naturally, Marshall’s rst thought is to exterminate the creatures. ey’re clearly intelligent and live in an interconnected community. When one of their adorable babies is captured by the humans, they surround the space colony. It’s
becoming dull. Part of the storyline revolves around her teen daughter, Ava (Amirah J), who knows her mom is intelligent but also has to be the stand-in co-parent for younger siblings Elliot (Matthew Lamb) and baby Chloe. While Chloe and Elliot’s dad is Morgan’s ex, Ludo (Taran Killam), Ava’s dad has been missing for years. Cue a readymade mystery just waiting to be solved.
If you love Olson, you are going to love her here too. Heck, even if you just like her and need a bit of fun with a bite then High Potential will certainly hit the spot. (13 40- to 44-minute episodes)
—Anna
SMARTYPANTS
Kaitlin Olson stars as single mom of three Morgan Gillory, who works as a cleaning lady for the LAPD until her 160-point IQ leads her to a police consulting gig, in High Potential, now streaming on Hulu.
THE SILENT HOUR
What’s it rated? R
When? 2024
Where’s it showing? Hulu
Bgot a decidedly white settlers vs. Indigenous people vibe. One might argue that these satirical tropes are painted overly broadly, but the lm works and is darkly funny. Despite all the human ugliness on display, it’s ultimately a hopeful lm.
Anna Mickey doesn’t even realize the cute gigantic pill bug creatures saved him. At rst, he takes it as just another rejection, like he isn’t even good enough to be eaten. However, when Marshall and his crew get their hands on some of the “creeper” babies, the underground animals soon swell to the surface in search of their youngsters. I don’t do well when even ctional animals get abused on-screen, so some of this movie was less than comfortable. However, the message reigns: Hate does not conquer, love does. Life is not dollars and cents, or expendable. I’m stoked to see Pattinson taking on these challenging roles, and I welcome more! ∆
Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Split Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
rad Anderson (The Machinist, Fractured ) directs Dan Hall’s debut script about reckless but effective Boston Detective Frank Shaw (Joel Kinnaman), who was seriously injured on the job, leading to increasing hearing loss. Sixteen months after the accident, Shaw is beginning to question his ability to do his job. When his ex-partner, Doug Slater (Mark Strong), catches a double murder case with a deaf witness named Ava Fremont (Sandra Mae Frank) and the American Sign Language interpreter isn’t available, he coaxes his reluctant ex-partner to take her statement.
Soon, however, the murderers arrive to make sure Ava can never testify, leaving Shaw to protect her in the multi-storied but near-empty building that’s scheduled to be condemned. Outnumbered and outgunned, and unable to hear them coming, what follows is an effective cat-and-mouse thriller with a subtextual treatise on disability and power to overcome it. It’s not a perfect film, but solid performances and effective direction kept me interested. It becomes a little cliché as we discover who’s behind the murders and why, with a few overly telegraphed twists, but if you have Hulu or Disney+ and like action thrillers, it’s there for the watching. (99 min.)
EXPENDABLE Robert Pattinson stars as Mickey Barnes, a cloned worker who’s re-cloned every time he dies, though his memories are largely intact, in Mickey 17, playing in local theaters.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WARNER BROS.
DEAF TRAP
Deaf Det. Frank Shaw (Joel Kinnaman) is brought in to take the statement of deaf witness Ava Fremont (Sandra Mae Frank), when they’re trapped in a building full of criminals, in The Silent Hour, streaming on Hulu.
PHOTO COURTESY OF REPUBLIC PICTURES
COURTESY PHOTO BY DAVID BUKACH/ABC
PLANNING COMMISSION
HOME-BUSINESS REGULATIONS
WORKSHOP
The City of Paso Robles Planning Commission will hold a Public Workshop to consider the standards for home businesses (Zoning Code Chapter 21.21).
The City of Paso Robles Planning Commission will hold a Public Workshop to consider the standards for home businesses (Zoning Code Chapter 21.21).
During the workshop, City staff will present an overview of the existing home business standards and the Planning Commission will host a discussion about potential improvements. The community will have an opportunity to provide feedback.
WORKSHOP DATE:
During the workshop, City staff will present an overview of the existing home business standards and the Planning Commission will host a discussion about potential improvements. The community will have an opportunity to provide feedback.
March 25, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber/Library Conference Center, 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446.
WORKSHOP DATE:
The public has the option to attend the meeting in person or to participate remotely. To participate remotely, residents can livestream the meeting at www.prcity.com/youtube, and call (805)865-7276 to provide live public comment via telephone. Written public comments can be submitted via email to planning@prcity.com.
March 25, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber/Library Conference Center, 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446.
The public has the option to attend the meeting in person or to participate remotely. To participate remotely, residents can livestream the meeting at www.prcity.com/youtube, and call (805)865-7276 to provide live public comment via telephone. Written public comments can be submitted via email to planning@prcity.com
If you have any questions, please contact the Community Development Department at (805) 237-3970 or planning@prcity.com
If you have any questions, please contact the Community Development Department at (805) 237-3970 or planning@prcity.com
Music
BY GLEN STARKEY
Joy ambassador
Pokey LaFarge plays Rod & Hammer Rock
Pokey LaFarge has found his happy place, and it’s making music that will put a smile on your face, like “So Long Chicago,” his tribute to snowbird Midwesterners escaping the winter cold.
“Who’s the man with the farmer’s tan/ Hotel slippers, margarita in his hand, uh huh, un huh// Lots of juice, lots of spice/Me and Montezuma gonna roll the dice, uh huh, un huh// I ain’t no high roller/ I’m a weekly bowler/ I’ve been saving my dough, yeah/ To fly me out of the snow/ It’s so long Chicago, hello Mexico/ It’s so long Chicag-o-o-o, hello Mexico.”
His new album, Rhumba Country, is filled with 10 toe-tapping, smile-inducing tracks, including an amazing cover of reggae legend Ken Boothe’s 1967 rocksteady classic “Home, Home, Home.”
Illinois-born LaFarge has made one terrific album after another, but this new one really soars. I was supposed to speak to him via phone on the morning of March 10 about his upcoming show at Rod & Hammer Rock on Sunday, March 16 (doors at 7 p.m.; 18-andolder; $29.27 at ticketweb.com), but he had to cancel due to a sore throat. Fingers crossed he’s better by this Sunday!
In press materials, however, he explained the genesis of his new album—but first, a little background. He was born Andrew Heissler, reportedly nicknamed Pokey by his mother who grew tired of his childhood dawdling. I wanted to ask him about this, but my guess is the LaFarge part of his stage name comes from Peter La Farge, best known for his song “The Ballad of Ira Hayes,” which Johnny Cash had a hit with. La Farge is one of the artists Pokey (we’re on a first name basis now to avoid confusion) named as inspiration along with Skip James, Sleepy John Estes, Bill Monroe, Howlin’ Wolf, Jimmie Rodgers, Fats Waller, and others.
After graduating high school at 17 in 2001, he hitchhiked west and started busking, and in 2006, he self-released his first album, Marmalade. He was off and running. Subsequent studio albums came out on
Live Music
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE
A rockin’ blues dance party at Niffy’s Merrimaker every first, third, and now fifth Wednesdays. The Blues Asylum house band welcomes local, visiting, and newcomers to the blues groove. Spirits, beer, and wine, with outside food welcome. Every other Wednesday, 7-10 p.m. Free. (805) 235-5223. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos.
BRASS MASH AT OLDE ALEHOUSE: ST. PATTY’S DAY SPECIAL Hear the town favorite all-horn band perform at The Olde Alehouse. Get tickets and more info on the show at the link. March 15 6-9 p.m. $25. my805tix.com. The Olde Alehouse, 945 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos.
FOOSER WITH THE SICK FEESH A four-piece pop punk band based in San Luis Obispo. March 14 7-11 p.m. Free. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 2251312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.
various labels, including his 2013 eponymous release on Jack White’s Third Man Records, but for the last three, he’s been on New West. His most recent and 11th, Rhumba Country, grew out of a music hiatus that landed him in Maine working 12-hour days on a farm, which amazingly lightened his spirits and brought inspiration.
“There was a time when I glorified sadness because I lost sight of who I was, but now I understand that creating and expressing joy is my gift, and gifts are meant to be shared,” he said in press materials. “I’d be pushing a plow or scattering seeds, and the songs would just come to me. It was tremendously inspirational and made me realize that apart from singing, farming is perhaps the oldest human art form.”
The entire album is a joy, with infectious melodies and Pokey’s unique voice and musical sensibilities. He began experimenting with mambo, tropicália, rocksteady, and mid-century American rock ’n’ roll sounds when he returned to LA and collaborated with fellow Midwestern transplant Elliot Bergman (Wild Belle).
“You have to live the life you’re singing in
JESSE DAYTON LIVE An American musician, actor, and record producer from Austin, Texas best known for his guitar contributions to notable country albums. March 18 7-10 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.
KELLYTOWN: PARTY FOR ST. PATRICK Atascadero-based band Kellytown is set to deliver their mix of “rockin’ Irish pub-songs, fiddle tunes, sea shanties and accordion polkas.” March 14 , 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 235-5898. wearekellytown. com. The Savory Palette (formerly Morro Bay Wine Seller), 601 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.
LIVE MUSIC WITH GUITAR WIZ AT LUNADA GARDEN BISTRO “Guitar Wizard” Billy Foppiano plays a wide range of music, including blues, R&B, classic rock, and more. Fourth Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (805) 900-5444. Lunada Garden Bistro, 78 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos.
METALACHI Described as the world’s only heavy metal/mariachi band. March 20, 7-10 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.
MOLLY RINGWALD PROJECT ‘80S
PARTY Get ready to dance the night away. No early access during soundcheck. March 15 , 8 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.
THE MOONSTONE BAND AT THE SIREN The Moonstone band is happy to be back at The Siren and we’ll bring its Moonstone vibe for an afternoon of classic rock. March 15 2-5 p.m. Free. (805) 225-1312. thesirenmorrobay.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay. OPEN MIC NIGHT Each Wednesday, enjoy this Open Mic Night in the downstairs dining area. Grab some friends and show off your talents. Food and drink service will be available. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. Free. (805) 995-3883.
your songs—no matter what you’re going through,” he continued. “Everything will come out in your music whether you want it to or not. I’ve realized that the more I can pursue goodness and live in peace, the more I can make the music I was put here to make.”
Ramblers and outlaws
Austin-based renegade rocker Jesse Dayton is coming to The Siren this Tuesday, March 18, courtesy of Good Medicine, Numbskull, and KCBX (7 p.m.; 21-and-older; $24.93 at goodmedicinepresents.com). The Grammy-nominated chart-topper is known for his genre-defying mash-up of East Texas blues, punk rock, and old-school country. He’s currently touring in support of his newest, The Hard Way Blues, produced by Shooter Jennings
“I don’t care about genres, trends, or buzzwords—I care about being truthful to my vision,” Dayton said in press materials. “This record let me rip blues leads like Freddie King one minute and play rock guitar like Jimmy Page the next. It’s where I’m at right now, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Good Medicine, Numbskull, and
schoonerscayucos.com. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos.
SEA SHANTY SING-ALONG Enjoy as The Morro Bay Shanty Project performs sea shanties and other songs of the sea. March 23 , 3-4 p.m. Free. (805) 225-6571. Dockside Restaurant, 1245 Embarcadero bay front, Morro Bay.
THE THIRD MIND Featuring Dave Alvin, Jesse Sykes, Victor Krummenacher, Michael Jerome, and Mark Karan. March 19 7-10 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay. com/.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
ATOWN BEER FESTIVAL AFTER PARTY
A 1990s-themed dance party with ‘90s Babiez. March 22 6:30-9:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Blast and Brew, 7935 San Luis Ave., Atascadero.
BARREL ROOM CONCERT: THE ROCKIN B’S BAND Enjoy live music at the Hilltop
KCBX also present The Third Mind on Wednesday, March 19, in The Siren (7 p.m.; 21-and-older; $35.74 at goodmedicinepresents.com), with The Mad Alchemist Liquid Light Show. The all-star Third Mind features Dave Alvin, Jesse Sykes, Victor Krummenacher, Michael Jerome, Mark Karan, and Willie Aron. Do you love ’80s music? Then check out Totally ’80s Rewind Party on Friday, March 14, in Club Car Bar (8 p.m.; 18-andolder; $11.02 at goodmedicinepresents.com). It’s a DJ-driven salute to all things ’80s.
Speaking of the ’80s
Wanna get your ’80s on two days in a row?
Check out the Molly Ringwald Project at The Siren on Saturday, March 15 (8 p.m.; 21-and-older; $30.12 at tixr.com). Their bio claims, “Brought together by the Force, the Powers of Grey Skull, the Flux Capacitor, a beat-up Swatch Watch wrapped around an old can of Aqua Net, and just a pinch of discarded MX missile fuel, tMRP brings an authentic show to sold-out crowds throughout California.”
CELLO AND PIANO Featuring “Arpeggione Sonata” by Franz Schubert and assorted French salon pieces. With Hilary Clark, cello, and Rebecca Mclaflin, piano. March 16 4 p.m. my805tix.com. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles, (805) 238-9800.
EASTON EVERETT LIVE AT CALCAREOUS VINEYARD Everett is a singer-songwriter who blends indie folk, neo-folk, and world beat with intricate fingerstyle guitar. March 23 12:30-3:30 p.m. Calcareous Vineyard, 3430 Peachy Canyon Road, Paso Robles, (805) 2390289.
FRIDAY NIGHT DJ Weekly DJ series, with a different DJ every Friday. Presented by friends at Traffic Record store in Atascadero. Come listen, dance, drink, and unwind every Friday. All ages event; no cover charge. Fridays, 7-10 p.m. (805)
460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero. GREAT GATSBY GALA: SPEAKEASY SWING SOIREE WITH CUESTA CONCORD CHORUS The Cuesta Concord Chorus hopes to see you don your finest flapper dress or sharpest pinstripe suit and prepare to be transported to a Prohibition-era speakeasy unlike any other. Visit site for tickets and more info. March 23 , 1 p.m. $50. (805) 546-3198. Park Ballroom, 1232 Park St. #200, Paso Robles.
JEFF LIVINGSTONE BAND WITH KATIE CHAPPELL Singer-songwriter Jeff Livingstone from LA is set to return to Club Car Bar with a full band. He is described to embody “the essence of Americana, folk, and country,” whose music “resonates with a timeless purity, enriched by his innate ability to learn songs by ear, harmonize, and understand LIVE
‘SO LONG CHICAGO’ SLO Brew Live brings Pokey LaFarge to Rod & Hammer Rock on March 16
COURTESY PHOTO BY FABIAN FIOTO
RENAGADE Good Medicine, Numbskull, and KCBX present Jesse Dayton at The Siren on March 18 .
PHOTO COURTESY OF
STARKEY
compositions with musical fluency.” March 22 , 8 p.m. $13. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.
KELLYTOWN LIVE Hear Atascaderobased band Kellytown live as they play Irish pub songs and fiddle tunes. Food and drink will be available for purchase.
March 17, 4-7 p.m. Free. Blast and Brew, 7935 San Luis Ave., Atascadero.
OPEN MIC NIGHT Hosted by The Journals 805 (John and Dylan Krause). Mondays, 9 p.m. Pine Street Saloon, 1234 Pine St., Paso Robles.
PARK STREET JAZZ NIGHT
Experience the New York jazz scene at Parchetto with WhistlePig. Enjoy a four-course cocktail dinner, exclusive whiskey selections, and live music from Adam Levine. March 20 , 6:30-10 p.m. $195. (805) 286-4636. parchettobistro.com. Parchetto Bistro, 1234 Park St, Paso Robles.
SINGING HANDS CHILDREN’S CHOIR
A unique performing arts group that performs across the state for deaf festivals, service organizations, churches, fairs, and other outlets. New members always welcome. Registration open weekly. Mondays, 5-6:30 p.m. $45 tuition per month. singinghandschildrenschoir. com/. Singing Hands Children’s Choir and Performing Arts, 1413 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
BIG FISH BAND AND MORE The Bunker SLO presents Big Fish Band, Monkey Flower, and Blazed. March 22 , 6-9:30 p.m. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
BLUE KAIJU SPRING TOUR 2025
Presented by Central Coast Music Productions (CCMP) and Anomaly House. March 15 , 6 p.m. my805tix. com/. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855
Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974.
BOB AND WENDY WITH PAUL GRIFFITH AND DAMON CASTILLO Bob and Wendy with Paul Griffith return to the Bunker SLO for a third show. There will be an opening acoustic set by Damon Castillo. March 16 , 2:30-5 p.m. $16. (805) 439-0355. thebunkerslo.com/events. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
BURGUNDY BLUES PRESENTED BY VINYLISTICS Hear four-piece indie band Burgundy Blues live. They are described as specializing “in a groove-oriented, chill sound. It’s jazzy; it’s soft-rock-y, it’s slightly funk.” March 22 , 8 p.m. $13. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337.
CAL POLY CHOIRS: IMPERIAL ECHOES — MUSIC FOR ROYAL OCCASIONS
Cal Poly’s Cantabile, Chamber Choir, PolyPhonics and University Singers will sing songs inspired by, and written for, royalty. PolyPhonics will perform at Carnegie Hall in April. March 15 , 7:30 p.m. $17 and $22 general; $12 students. (805) 756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/ choirs/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. CAL POLY SYMPHONY WINTER CONCERT: STUDENT SOLOIST SHOWCASE AND THE MOVIES With music from Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl Raiders of the Lost Ark Star Trek, and more. March 14 7:30 p.m. $17 and $22 general; $12 students. (805) 756-4849. music.calpoly. edu/calendar/symph/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.
CCMP AND ANOMALY HOUSE PRESENTS PUNK ROCK CHAOS With sets from Hostile Takedown, Carry The 9, and DirtFight. Visit the link for tickets and more info on this all-ages show. March 21 6 p.m. $13. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1,
San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974.
CO-CREATION PROJECT VII: THE FRENCH CONNECTION Presented by Orchestra Novo. Featuring pianist Andy Chen, and works by Maurice Ravel and Camill Saint-Saens. March 23 4-6 p.m. my805tix.com. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
EASTON EVERETT LIVE AT BENNY’S Everett is a singer-songwriter who blends indie folk, neo-folk, and world beat with intricate fingerstyle guitar. March 20 7-9 p.m. Benny’s Pizza Palace and Social Club, 1601 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-3838.
EXCURSION IN EXTREMIS 2025 LIVE Head to Liquid Gravity to hear Excursion in Extremis 2025 live, along with sets from Atrae Bilis, Replicant, The Last of Lucy, and No Tears 4 Dead Billionaires. Tickets for this 21 and over show can be purchased online or at the door. March 14 6 p.m. $24. my805tix.com. Liquid Gravity Brewing Company, 675 Clarion Ct., San Luis Obispo, (805) 457-4677.
FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE BY TWISTED GYPSY All ages welcome. Doors open at 7 p.m. March 14 , 8 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-8600, fremontslo. com.
FORBES ORGAN SERIES: VINCENT DUBOIS Titular organist at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, France, Vincent Dubois will perform during this program. Visit site for more info. March 23 3 p.m. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. THE GROGANS LIVE The Grogans are an Australian trio well-versed in garage and surf rock. Visit the link for tickets to their ages 18 and over event. March 13 7 p.m. $20. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843, slobrew.com.
Mac, booze, and neon spandex
e Fremont eater is swinging for the proverbial entertainment fences this week with three big shows starting with Fleetwood Mac tribute act Twisted Gypsy on Friday, March 14 (8 p.m.; all ages; $26.24 to $63.21 at prekindle.com).
According to promoters, “Twisted Gypsy takes you back to the early days of Hollywood’s Sunset Strip and the heyday of ’70s rock ’n’ roll. ey will transport you back in time to memories you forgot you had with their passion, ultra-high energy, stellar all-live harmonies, fun stage banter,
HANDBELL CONCERT The SLO, Atascadero, and Los Osos Methodist handbell choirs will perform together in a benefit concert to aid the L.A fire victims. March 23 2:30-4 p.m. Free. (805) 543-7580. sloumc.com. San Luis Obispo United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.
HINDS LIVE Spanish indie duo are set to grace the stage of SLO. Visit link for tickets and more info. March 22 , 7 p.m. $32. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843, slobrew.com.
LIVE MUSIC FROM GUITAR WIZ BILLY FOPPIANO AND MAD DOG Join “Guitar Wiz” Billy Foppiano and his trusty side kick Mad Dog for a mix of blues, R&B, and more. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (805) 544-2100. Bon Temps Creole Cafe, 1819 Osos Street, San Luis Obispo, bontempscreolecafe.com/index.htm.
MIKE SHERM LIVE Mike Sherm takes on the Fremont at this all ages event. March 21 7 p.m. $62. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 5468600, fremontslo.com.
PATRICIA CAICEDO: LATIN AMERICAN AND IBERIAN ART SONG MASTER
CLASS Soprano and musicologist
Patricia Caicedo will present a Latin American and Iberian Art Song Master Class with Cal Poly voice students. March 13 , 11:10 a.m.-noon Free; parking permit required. (805) 756-2406. music. calpoly.edu/calendar/special/. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.
POKEY LAFARGE LIVE Head to Slo Brew as Illinois-born singer, songwriter Pokey LaFarge graces the stage. Visit site for tickets and more info. March 16 7 p.m. $30. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista
and raw, track-free performances.”
Experience And at’s Why We Drink: e Pour Decision Tour on Saturday, March 15 (8 p.m.; all ages; $26.24 to $39.11 at prekindle.com), hosted by New York Times best-selling authors Em Schulz and Christine Schiefer, who co-host the And at’s Why We Drink comedy podcast.
Sound out! Send music and club information to gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
Finally, hair band homage masters Steel Panther plays Sunday, March 16 (8 p.m.; all ages; $47.35 general and $156.99 to $216.73 VIP at prekindle.com), with Moon Fever opening. Formed in 2000 in LA, Steel Panther is “the world’s premier party band, melding hard rock virtuosity with parody and criminally good looks,” their bio explains. “Steel Panther is a global phenomenon
Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843, slobrew.com.
REMINITIONS, LAST OF OUR KIND, NOTT, AND IDLE MIND LIVE Head to Humdinger for live sets from deathcore band Reminitions, as well as metal groups Last Of Our Kind, Catacombs, Occuli, and The Relative Minimum. Get tickets and more info on this all-ages show at the link. March 23 , 5 p.m. $14. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974.
THE REUNION SHOW With music by: Saturn Death Dive, Julie F the Rulies, plus special guests. March 14 my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
STEEL PANTHER LIVE A party band that blends “hard rock virtuosity with parody and criminally good looks.” March 16 8 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-8600, fremontslo.com.
SUNNY JAIN’S WILD WILD EAST Sunny Jain integrates his identity as a firstgeneration South Asian-American and global musician, drawing inspiration from Bollywood classics, Spaghetti Westerns, Punjabi folk, jazz, and psychedelia to creatively reinterpret the immigrant experience as modern-day cowboys and cowgirls in today’s global music landscape. March 14 , 7:30 p.m. (805) 7564849. calpolyarts.org. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.
VARGO LIVE Enjoy a night of live music with Vargo, headlining with their signature hard-hitting sound, plus powerhouse support from AIP and No Outlet. March 14 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337.
YOUNG JAZZ SCHOLARSHIP CONCERT
with four full-length albums, touring across the world, platinum-level YouTube status, and highpro le television appearances.”
Bollywood meets Spaghetti Westerns
Cal Poly Arts hosts Sunny Jain’s Wild Wild East in the Spanos eatre on Friday, March 14 (7:30 p.m.; all ages; $47 at pacslo.org). Jain, a rst-generation South Asian American, is a monster percussionist with a unique musical sensibility that’s informed by his background.
“In recasting the immigrant—steeped in the courage to leave a familiar homeland for a new beginning—as the modern-day cowboy and cowgirl, Jain sources musical inspiration from the scores of Bollywood classics and Spaghetti Westerns, Punjabi folk traditions, jazz improvisation, and rollicking psychedelic styles,” according to his bio.
All hail the next generation
e San Luis Obispo County Jazz Federation is once again poised to honor its Young Jazz scholarship winners at their 2025 showcase on Sunday, March 16, at Cuesta College (Room 7160 at Music & Fine Arts building; 4 p.m.; all ages; free tickets via my805tix.com and at the door provided seats remain).
“ e student musicians will play individual and group selections, accompanied by Tom Bethke on guitar, Ken Hustad on bass, and Darrell Voss on drums,” the Jazz Fed announced. “ is program, started in 1984, awards scholarships to talented and deserving students from local high
The San Luis Obispo County Jazz Federation is privileged to showcase the winners of its 2025 “Young Jazz” music scholarships. March 16 , 4-5:30 p.m. Free admission; donations encouraged. my805tix.com. Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
ARROYO GRANDE HIGH SCHOOL
PRESENTS CHOIR AND BAND SPRING
CONCERT The AGHS Choir, Concert Band, and Wind Ensemble perform a diverse program of classical and contemporary works, blending rich harmonies with powerful, precise instrumentation. March 19, 7-9 p.m. General admission is $10; $5 for students. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter. org/shows/aghs-choir-band-springconcert/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
DAVID VICTOR: THE HITS OF BOSTON Experience the legendary sound of Boston with David Victor, with soaring vocals, iconic guitar harmonies, and electrifying energy in a must-see rock ‘n’ roll celebration. Visit site for tickets and more info. March 22 7:30 p.m. $45-$65. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly event with barbecue o erings and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, (805) 925-3500.
MANCINI CENTENNIAL WITH JUKEBOX SATURDAY NIGHT Celebrate Henry Mancini’s 100th with Mancini Centennial—experience timeless classics, Hollywood glamour, and unforgettable melodies in a tribute to his enduring musical genius. Reserve now. March 15 , 7 p.m. $34-$54; Platinum $59. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/
mancini-centennial/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
MOTHER CORN SHUCKER’S BLUE GRASS IS GREENER ON ST PADDY’S DAY Get Ready for a toe-tappin’ St. Patrick’s Day at The Melodrama to hear live bluegrass music. March 17 5-10 p.m. $25-30. (805) 489-2499. americanmelodrama.com. Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN IRELAND
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with worldclass music and dance. Experience Riverdance stars, lively fiddles, pipes, and Irish songs. Presented by Kerry Irish Productions. March 16 1:59-4 p.m. $29-$54; platinum $59. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/st-patricksday-in-ireland/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.
THE JOY OF LEARNING MUSIC Features a talk by Pete Pidgeon, founder of Lessons from Anywhere, on the mental and social benefits of music education. March 22 3-4 p.m. Free. (805) 9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
schools and colleges in an e ort to further musical development and to keep the jazz tradition alive. e scholarships are funded by the Jazz Federation through donations.” Visit slojazz.org or call Dave Becker for more information at (805) 234-7474.
Live Oak early bird pricing ends March 15!
You only have a few more days to get the best deal possible on the upcoming Live Oak Music Festival at El Chorro Regional Park Friday, June 13, through Sunday, June 15, because starting Saturday, March 16, ticket prices go up. Visit liveoakfest.org to see the festival lineup and get your tickets today! ∆
Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
EAST MEETS WEST Cal Poly Arts presents Sunny Jain’s Wild
14
LAS GUARACHERAS See this all-women salsa sextet live in concert. A special reception will follow the performance. March 15 7 p.m. Free admission. (805) 893-3535. artsandlectures.ucsb.edu/learn/ viva-el-arte-de-santa-barbara/. Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo St., Guadalupe.
LIVE MUSIC AND FOOD BY LOBO
BUTCHER SHOP Check out live music every Friday night from a variety of artists at Steller’s Cellar in Old Orcutt. Dinner served by Lobo Butcher Shop between 5 and 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 5-9 p.m. Varies according to food options. (805) 623-5129. stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR
Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 6235129, stellerscellar.com.
METALACHI LIVE Visit site for tickets and more info on this genre-blending performance. March 15 my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S. Broadway St., Orcutt, (805) 934-3777.
MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY
Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic. com/Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARTY With live DJs and all-day food and drink specials, starting inside the brewery at 6 a.m., with festivities in the stockyard starting at
noon. March 17, 6 a.m.-7 p.m. my805tix. com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S. Broadway St., Orcutt, (805) 934-3777. SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG KARAOKE AT COLD COAST BREWING CO. Pick out a song, bring your friends, and get ready to perform. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 8190723, coldcoastbrewing.com.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
BENJI HUGHES AND JON LINDSAY Prior to the concert, Je Bridges will host a Q-and-A with Hughes and Lindsay, at 6 p.m. Doors to the concert open at 7 p.m. March 13 , 7:30 p.m. $40; or $75 with Q-and-A access. Lost Chord Guitars, 1576 Copenhagen Dr., Solvang, (805) 331-4362.
LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
TERRY AND THE RIPLEYS LIVE Enjoy some classic and modern rock covers from this featured act. March 14 8:30-11:30 p.m. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, (805) 686-4785, mavericksaloon.org.
TEX PISTOLS LIVE Look forward to live country from the Tex Pistols. March 15 8:30-11:30 p.m. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, (805) 686-4785, mavericksaloon.org.
WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com. ∆
LIVE MUSIC from page 23
HAIR BAND HOMAGE Steel Panther plays the Fremont Theater on March 16
Wild East in the Spanos Theatre on March
COURTESY PHOTO BY EBRU YILDIZ
BY LIBBEY HANSON
SLO Southern love
Barbecue that feeds the soul—that’s what CJ’s BBQ Smokehouse is all about, according to owner Christopher Patterson.
Even though he grew up in California, Patterson said he inherited his parents’ Southern tastebuds.
“I grew up on Southern dishes like collard greens, cornbread, black-eyed peas, catfish, seafood gumbo—just different flavors that are kind of unique to the South and not so much California,” Patterson said.
And it’s those tastebuds that inspired Patterson to open a barbecue spot, an homage to his parents’ classic Southern recipes—but with his own twist.
CJ’s BBQ, located at 1005 Monterey St. in Downtown San Luis Obispo, opened in January and is Patterson’s second Southern barbecue joint in the state. His other restaurant’s in Oxnard, which he’s operated for 22 years.
His Oxnard location is a successful “fastcasual” dining experience, Patterson said, and a friend inspired him to open this new, sit-down location in SLO due to a lack of local “soul food.”
But Patterson said it’s been a slow start on Monterey Street, and the restaurant has had to let many of its staff go due to lack of business, but when a random busy weekend night comes along, they don’t have the staff to support the rush. He said it’s been quite the rollercoaster.
That’s why Patterson brought on Sharruss Humlicek, a restaurant professional with 29 years of experience and a SLO local whose primary goal is to incorporate CJ’s BBQ into SLO’s food culture.
“People and food are my passion. I love to get out there and promote. I love to make a big deal out of great food. When somebody
yams; and peach cobbler with ice cream—he noted that each pie they serve at his Oxnard location is homemade by his mother, and he hopes to eventually serve these pies in SLO.
has a really great food product, it makes it really easy for me to do my job,” Humlicek said. “So, I’m here to focus on customer service and creating a space that people want to come and hang out, … that type of thing, where this is going to become a staple for the locals.”
Humlicek said Patterson’s use of flavor could propel CJ’s to become that local staple.
“We don’t really have a good barbecue spot in San Luis Obispo that has stayed. Anything that we have had in the past hasn’t lasted,” she said. “But [Patterson’s] flavor profile of his foods, and the consistency of it, is huge.”
Some of Patterson’s personal favorites on the menu are the gumbo, based on his mother’s recipe; collard greens; candied
Patterson said he wants this new location to be successful for his mother, who still works as a hairdresser.
“I would love for her to retire, and even if she just retires and starts doing pies,” he said. “Yeah, she makes all the pies, … and she also makes a lemon pudding cake that we sell down there.”
Patterson said one of his most notable recipes is for collard greens, a dish he hated as a child. Starting with his mom’s recipe, he said he tweaked it in a way to make his inner-child happy.
“I used smoked turkey instead of ham hocks,” he said, and laughed when reminiscing about his first time cooking the
greens and how much they reduced in size.
“When I made my first pot, I made this big old pot full of collard greens, and it shrunk down [tiny]. It lasted about two hours,” he said with a laugh.
The menu at CJ’s is extensive, Patterson said, and includes pulled pork sandwiches, blackened salmon, burgers, cornbread, chicken wings, and beef ribs with an inferno sauce so hot you’ll think you have a fever.
Pair that inferno with a lemonade and you’re good to go, Patterson said.
“For those wings— lemonade,” he said. “Eat that. Drink the lemonade when it gets to a point where you can’t take [the heat], and calm it down.” ∆
Staff Writer Libbey Hanson is contemplating trying CJ’s inferno sauce. Send best wishes to lhanson@newtimesslo.com.
YOUR GREENS Not feeling the meat sweats? Get a fresh salad at CJ’s,
SOUL FOOD CREATOR Christopher Patterson, owner of CJ’s BBQ Smokehouse, pays homage to his parents’ Southern tastebuds by serving soul food with a twist.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CJ’S BARBEQUE
CORNBREAD CORNER CJ’s BBQ Smokehouse opened on the corner of Monterey Street in hopes of becoming a local staple.
Publication Dates: March 13, 20, 27, April 3, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2024-0456 (08/09/2006)
New Filing
The following person is doing business as GW PROPERTIES, 3026 S. Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, California 93401. San Luis Obispo County. Gordon Edmonds (2470 Victoria Avenue, #102 San Luis Obispo CA 93401) Ronald Eisworth (107 Beachcomber Shell Beach CA 93449) Suzanne Eisworth (107 Beachcomber Shell Beach CA 93449) Douglas Hollingsworth (2680 Ardilla Road Atascadero CA 93422) Leigh Ann Hollingsworth (2680 Ardilla Road Atascadero CA 93422). This business is conducted by A Joint Venture, Gordon Edmonds. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 02-26-2025. hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, atrujillo, Deputy. Exp. 0226-2030. March 6, 13, 20, 27, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2025-0003
BUSINESS DATE (N/A) New Filing
The following person is doing business as, SKIN
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
WHO:
San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors
WHEN:
Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. All items are advertised for 9:00 a.m. To find out placement of this item on the Board of Supervisors Agenda, go to the County’s website at www.slocounty.ca.gov on the Wednesday before the scheduled hearing date.
WHAT:
Hearing to consider adoption of ordinance amendments to Title 22 and Title 23 of the County Code and a resolution amending the Framework for Planning, Coastal Framework for Planning, Inland Area Plans, and the Conservation and Open Space Element to modify combining designations for lands with significant mineral resources and lands adjacent to existing mines and quarries pursuant to the State Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (County File Number: LRP2013-00017). All Districts. (Planning and Building).
County File No: LRP2013-00017
Date Authorized: 3/20/2018
Supervisorial District(s): All Districts Assessor Parcel Numbers: N/A
WHERE:
The hearing will be held in the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1055 Monterey St., Room #D170, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, CA. The Board of Supervisors Chambers are located on the corner of Santa Rosa and Monterey Streets. At the hearing all interested persons may express their views for or against, or to change the proposal.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
You may contact Dominic Dal Porto, Planner, in the San Luis Obispo County Department of Planning and Building, 976 Osos Street, Room 200, San Luis Obispo, California 93408, (805) 781-5710. The staff report will be available for review the Wednesday before the scheduled hearing date on the County’s website at www.slocounty.ca.gov
ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION:
This project is covered by the common sense exemption that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. The County of San Luis Obispo determines that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment; the activity is not subject to CEQA. [Reference: State CEQA Guidelines sec. 15061(b)(3), Common Sense Exemption]
**If you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this public notice or in written correspondence delivered to the appropriate authority at or before the public hearing**
DATED: March 11, 2025
MATTHEW P. PONTES, EX-OFFICIO CLERK OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
By: /s/ Niki Martin
Deputy
Clerk
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
WHO:
San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors
WHEN:
Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. All items are advertised for 9:00 a.m. To find out placement of this item on the Board of Supervisors Agenda, go to the County’s website at www.slocounty. ca.gov on the Wednesday before the scheduled hearing date.
WHAT:
Hearing to consider a request by the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education (SLOCOE) for a Land Use Ordinance Amendment (LRP2023-00001) to allow for school district housing on the SLOCOE property (APN: 073221-021). Amendments will include (1) adding a definition for ‘School District Housing’ to Article 8 (Definitions), (2) amending Table 2-2 in Section 22.04.030 to allow for residential use in Public Facilities (PF) when allowed by Planning Area Standards, and (3) amending Section 22.96.050(D) to allow for school district housing’ within a 1.4-acre area on the SLOCOE property. The project is located at 2450 Pennington Creek Road, on the east side of Highway 1 near the intersection of Gilardi Road and Education Drive in the county of San Luis Obispo. The site is in the San Luis Obispo Sub-Area of the San Luis Obispo Planning Area.
Also to be considered is the environmental determination that the project qualifies for the General Rule Exemption under CEQA, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).
County File Number: LRP2023-00001
Assessor Parcel Numbers: 073-221-021
Supervisorial District: District 2
Date Accepted: September 20, 2024
WHERE:
The hearing will be held in the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1055 Monterey St., Room #D170, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, CA. The Board of Supervisors Chambers are located on the corner of Santa Rosa and Monterey Streets. At the hearing all interested persons may express their views for or against, or to change the proposal.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
You may contact Tristan Roach, Project Manager, in the San Luis Obispo County Department of Planning and Building, 976 Osos Street, Room 200, San Luis Obispo, California 93408, troach@co.slo.ca.us, (805) 781-5113. The staff report will be available for review the Wednesday before the scheduled hearing date on the County’s website at http://www. slocounty.ca.gov.
ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION:
This project is covered by the commonsense exemption that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. The County of San Luis Obispo determines that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment; the activity is not subject to CEQA. [Reference: State CEQA Guidelines sec. 15061(b)(3), Common Sense Exemption] COASTAL APPEALABLE: N/A
**If you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this public notice or in written correspondence delivered to the appropriate authority at or before the public hearing**
DATED: March 11, 2025
MATTHEW P. PONTES, EX-OFFICIO CLERK OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
By: /s/ Niki Martin
Deputy Clerk
March 13, 2025
PUBLISHED NOTICE INVITING
SOUTH VINE BRIDGE
BIDS
CONSTRUCTION PROJECT NO. 13-01
SEALED BIDS will be received by the Public Works Department, of the City of El Paso de Robles until April 17, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. for the South Vine Bridge Construction, DPW Project No. 13-01. Please be certain that any bid submitted is sealed and addressed and noted as follows:
City of El Paso de Robles
PLEASE NOTE NEW ADDRESS FOR BID DROP OFF 4305 Second Wind Way Paso Robles, CA 93446
Sealed Bid for South Vine Bridge Construction, DPW Project No. 13-01
Following the closure of the bid submittal period, bids will be publicly opened and read for performing work as follows: Furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, and performing all work necessary and incidental to the construction of the project known as South Vine Bridge Construction, DPW Project No. 13-01 according to drawings and specifications prepared by the City of El Paso de Robles and according to the Contract Documents. The work shall include but is not limited to, construction and installation of a prefabricated bridge, storm drains, bridge lighting, modification of an existing traffic signal, curbs, gutters, paving and striping, and all other appurtenant facilities to support the South Vine Bridge. Contractor to provide all necessary work plans, permits, and inspections necessary, all as shown on the plans and/or as specified herein.
Project is to be completed within Two Hundred Ten (210) WORKING days from the date specified in the Notice to Proceed. The Contractor shall pay to the City of El Paso de Robles the sum of Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000.00), for each and every calendar day’s delay in finishing the work in excess of the calendar day completion time.
The California Air Resources Board (“CARB”) implemented amendments to the In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulations (“Regulation”) which went into effect on January 1, 2024 and apply broadly to all self-propelled off road diesel vehicles 25 horsepower or greater and other forms of equipment used in California. A copy of the Regulation is available at https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/barcu/regact/2022/offroaddiesel/appa-1.pdf Bidders are required to comply with all CARB and Regulation requirements, including, without limitation, all applicable sections of the Regulation, as codified in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations section 2449 et seq. throughout the duration of the Project. Bidders must provide, with their Bid, copies of Bidder’s and all listed subcontractors’ most recent, valid Certificate of Reported Compliance (“CRC”) issued by CARB. Failure to provide valid CRCs as required herein may render the Bid non-responsive.
Copies of the Bid Documents are now on file and available for public inspection at the Public Works Department at 4305 Second Wind Way, El Paso de Robles, California. Interested bidders must obtain copies of the documents electronically.
The Contract Documents will be available electronically, at no cost, at DemandStar Paso Robles, CA. Use the link DemandStar Paso Robles, CA to navigate to the website for out to bid projects. To download the Bid Documents, the user must register as a user on the site. It is the responsibility of each prospective bidder to download and print all Bid Documents for review and to verify the completeness of Bid Documents before submitting a bid. Any Addenda will be posted at DemandStar Paso Robles, CA
It is the responsibility of each prospective bidder to check DemandStar Paso Robles, CA on a daily basis through the close of bids for any applicable addenda or updates. DemandStar Paso Robles, CA sends email notifications to ONLY those registered on their website. The City does not assume any liability or responsibility based on any defective or incomplete copying, excerpting, scanning, faxing, downloading or printing of the Bid Documents. Information on DemandStar Paso Robles, CA may change without notice to prospective bidders. The Contract Documents shall supersede any information posted or transmitted by any other vendor besides the City.
Bidding procedures are prescribed in the Contract Documents. Each bidder must submit bid security in one of the following forms: cash, cashier’s check payable to City, a certified check payable to City, or a bid bond in the form included with the bid documents, executed by an admitted surety insurer, made payable to City in an amount equal to at least 10% of the total amount of the bid or proposal.
Pursuant to Section 1770, et seq. of the California Labor Code, the successful bidder and all subcontractors shall pay not less than the prevailing rate of per diem wages as determined by the Director of the California Department of Industrial Relations.
Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5, for bids due on or after March 1, 2015, all contractors and subcontractors that wish to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal for, or enter into a contract to perform work on the Project must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code sections 1725.5 and 1771.1. No bid will be accepted, nor any contract entered into if the bidder is not registered as required by law.
Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 22300, for monies earned by the Contractor and withheld by City of El Paso de Robles to ensure the performance of the Contract, the Contractor may, at its option, choose to substitute securities meeting the requirements of Public Contract Code Section 22300.
All bidders shall be licensed under the provisions of the Business and Professions Code to do the type of work contemplated in the project. In accordance with provisions of California Public Contract Code Section 3300, City has determined that the Contractor shall possess a valid Class A (General Engineering) License at the time that the bid is submitted. Failure to possess the specified license shall render the bid non-responsive.
The successful bidder will be required to furnish a payment bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, as well as a faithful performance bond, in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price. The bonds shall be on the forms included in the Contract Documents.
City reserves the right to reject any or all bids; to make any awards or any rejections in what it alone considers to be in the best interest of City and waive any informalities or irregularities in the bids. The contract will be awarded, if at all, to the responsible bidder that submits the lowest responsive bid. City will determine the low bid.
Date: February 13, 2025 By: Ditas Esperanza P.E. Capital Projects Engineer
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 684
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Atascadero City Council has adopted Ordinance No. 684. The primary provisions of the Ordinance are as follows:
This Ordinance amends section 3-16.07 of the Atascadero Municipal Code establishing the membership of the Advisory Board for the Atascadero Tourism Business Improvement District.
The Ordinance was passed and adopted by the City Council on March 11, 2025, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Council Members Dariz, Funk, Newsom, Peek and Mayor Bourbeau. NOES: None. ABSENT: None
A complete copy of the Ordinance is on file in the City Clerk’s Office, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, California
DATED: March 11, 2025
S/ Alyssa Slater, Deputy City Clerk
PUBLISH: March 13, 2025
ORDINANCE NO. 3528
ORDINANCE DELEGATING AUTHORITY FOR THE DISPOSITION OF UTILITY EASEMENTS
WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code Section 25526.6, the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Luis Obispo (“Board”) may authorize county officers to grant or otherwise convey an easement, license, or permit to any public utility corporation; and
WHEREAS provision of utility services to construction projects often requires the disposition of utility easements, licenses, or permits to public utilities for the purposes of installing utility facilities and infrastructure over, across, under, and through County property; and
WHEREAS the Director of Public Works, or designee, is especially suited to convey said utility easements as the San Luis Obispo County Department of Public Works has been assigned the responsibility to oversee and deliver construction projects for the County.
The Board of Supervisors of the County of San Luis Obispo, State of California does ordain as follows:
SECTION 1: Section 2.18.060 is added to Title 2 of the County Code which is hereby amended as follows: 2.18.060. Disposition of Utility Easements
Subject to review and approval as to form by County Counsel, the Director of Public Works, or designee, is hereby authorized to grant or otherwise convey easements, licenses, or permits when necessary for the installation of utilities related to a County-managed construction project occurring on County-owned real property, to any public utility corporation in the manner and upon the terms and conditions the Director of Public Works determines or prescribes. Any grant or conveyance under this section must be accompanied by a written finding by the Director of Public Works, or designee, that the conveyance is in the public interest and that the interest in the land conveyed will not substantially conflict or interfere with the use of the property by the County of San Luis Obispo.
SECTION 2: If any section, subsection, clause, phrase, or portion of this ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of a court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the remaining portion of this ordinance. The Board of Supervisors hereby declares that it would have passed this ordinance and each section, subsection, clause, phrase, or portion thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 3: This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force and effect thirty (30) days after its passage and before the expiration of fifteen (15) days after passage of this ordinance, it shall be published once with the names of the members of the Board of Supervisors voting for and against the ordinance in a newspaper of general circulation published in the County of San Luis Obispo, State of California.
INTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors held on the 4th day of February, 2025, amended at a regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors held on the 25th day of February, 2025, and PASSED and ADOPTED by the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Luis Obispo, State of California, on the 11th day of March, 2025, by the following roll call vote, to wit:
AYES: Supervisors Bruce S. Gibson, Jimmy Paulding, John Peschong, Heather Moreno and Chairperson Dawn Ortiz-Legg
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINING: None
DATED: March 12, 2025
Matthew P. Pontes, Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
By: /s/ Niki Martin Deputy Clerk March 13, 2025
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Arroyo Grande City Council will conduct a hearing in the Arroyo Grande City Council Chambers located at 215 E. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 on TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter, to consider the following item:
Consideration of an Update to the User Fees Set Forth in the Comprehensive Fee Schedule. The City Council will conduct a hearing to update user fees for the costs associated with building permits for photovoltaic systems in accordance with Government Code Section 66015(a) (1), and the costs associated with transportation permits in accordance with Vehicle Code Section 35795(b)(1). The remainder of the user fees will be adjusted in accordance with the latest annual increase to the Consumer Price Index.
The Hearing to update User Fees set forth in the Comprehensive Fee Schedule is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because it has no potential to result in either a direct, or reasonably foreseeable indirect, physical change in the environment. (State CEQA Guidelines, §§ 15060 (c)(2) and (3), 15378.)
This City Council meeting is being conducted in a hybrid inperson/virtual format. During the hearing, public comment will be limited to three (3) minutes per speaker, pursuant to current meeting procedure.
The City Council may also discuss other hearings or business items before or after the item listed above. If you challenge the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing. Failure of any person to receive the notice shall not constitute grounds for any court to invalidate the action of the legislative body for which the notice was given.
Documents related to the project are available in the Community Development Department located at 300 E. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande. The Agenda and reports are posted online at www.arroyogrande.org 72 hours prior to the meeting. Please call (805) 473-5420 for more information. The City Council meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and streamed live on the City’s Website.
Jessica Matson, City Clerk March 13, 2025
NOTICE: SEIZURE OF PROPERTY AND INITIATION OF NONJUDICIAL FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS PER HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 11488.4(j) TO: ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
$1,580.74 IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY
Notice is hereby given that on December 20, 2024, the above-described property was seized at or near the intersection of Prado Street and S. Higuera Street in San Luis Obispo 93401, by the San Luis Obispo Police Department, in connection with violations of section 11378 of the California Health and Safety Code. The estimated/ appraised value of the property is $1,580.74
Pursuant to section 11488.4(j) of the California Health and Safety Code, you must file a verified claim stating your interest in the property with the Superior Court’s Civil Division, Room 385, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California 93408. Claim forms are available from the Clerk of the above court and also online at https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/mc200.pdf.
Furthermore, an endorsed copy of the verified claim must also be served on the District Attorney, Asset Forfeiture Unit, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, 4th Floor, San Luis Obispo, California 93408, within 30 days of filing the claim with the Superior Court’s Civil Division.
Both the District Attorney’s Office and the Interested Party filing the claim are entitled to conduct reciprocal requests for discovery in preparation for a hearing. The provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure shall apply to the proceedings unless inconsistent with the provisions or procedures set forth in the Health and Safety Code (Section 11488.5(c)(3)).
The Interested Party is entitled to legal representation at a hearing, although not one appointed at public expense, and has the right to present evidence and witnesses, and to cross-examine plaintiff’s witnesses, but there is no right to avoid testifying at a civil hearing.
The failure to timely file and secure a verified claim stating an interest in the property in the Superior Court will result in the property being declared or ordered forfeited to the State of California and distributed pursuant to the provisions of Health and Safety Code section 11489 without further notice or hearing.
DATED: March 3, 2025
DAN DOW
District Attorney
Kenneth Jorgensen
Deputy District Attorney
March 6, 13, & 20, 2025
ADMINISTRATIVE
Applications to make minor changes to the properties at the addresses listed below have been received by the City.
1. 12 South Tassajara Dr. DIR-0661-2024; Review of a setback exception request for a 4ft setback on detached single-story accessory structure where 5ft is the minimum standard. The project is categorically exempt from environmental review (CEQA); R-1 zone; Eva and Fidencio Rueda, applicants. (Eva Wynn)
2. 1190 Buchon St. DIR-0812-2024; Review of setback exception and an addition to an existing single-family residence that is nonconforming due to an 8ft setback, where 10ft is the minimum. Request for an uncovered canopy to extend 47 inches into the minimum side setback where 30 inches are allowed for architectural features. This residence is listed on the Contributing Properties List for historic resources. This project is categorically exempt from environmental review (CEQA); R-2-H zone; Cody Lorance, applicant. (Eva Wynn)
3. South Street, Marsh Street & Bianchi Lane. DIR-0141-2025; Request to perform night work for a maximum of fifteen (15) nights between March 24, 2025 to December 5, 2025, from the hours of 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM to facilitate the removal of existing waterline, replacement of waterline, reconstruction of Bianchi Lane, material haul off and other construction activity related to the Mid-Higuera Bypass project. Permit consists of multiple locations including portions of Marsh Street near the 101 North onramp, Bianchi Lane, portions of South Street west of Higuera Street, and the Madonna Road 101 north onramp. This project is categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review; C/OS-5 zone; City of San Luis Obispo, applicant. (Naomi Wilbur)
4. 1025 Farmhouse Lane. DIR-0154-2025; Request to perform nightwork for a maximum of four (4) nights between March 24, 2025, to June 30, 2025, from the hours of 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM to install water and reclaimed water lines across Broad Street. This project is categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review; C-S-SP zone; East Airport Park Association, applicant. (Juan Padilla)
5. 811, 815 & 817 Palm. DIR-0163-2025; Request to perform night work for a maximum of thirty (30) nights between March 24, 2025 to May 1, 2025 from the hours of 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM to demo existing sidewalk and pour new concrete. This project is categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review; C-D-H zone; City of San Luis Obispo, applicant. (Naomi Wilbur)
6. 1647 McCollum St. DIR-0003-2025; Fence height exception request for combined retaining wall and fence height to range between 6ft and 13ft where 6ft is the standard. This project is categorically exempt from environmental review (CEQA); R-1 zone; Michael Smith, applicant. (Eva Wynn)
The Community Development Director will either approve or deny these applications no sooner than March 24, 2025
The Director’s decision may be appealed, and must be filed with the appropriate appeal fee within 10 days of the Director’s action. For more information, contact the City of San Luis Obispo Community Development Department, 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, stop by Monday and Wednesday between 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday between 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or call (805) 781-7170, weekdays, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. March 13, 2025
NOTICE: SEIZURE OF PROPERTY AND INITIATION OF NONJUDICIAL FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS PER HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 11488.4(J) TO: ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: $7,890.33 IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY
Notice is hereby given that on February 14, 2025, the above-described property was seized at or near 43 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, in connection with cannabis violations, to wit, section(s) 11366, 11358(C), 11359(B), 11360(A)(2), 11357(B)(2) and 11359(C) of the California Health and Safety Code. The estimated/appraised value of the property is $7,890.33.
Pursuant to section 11488.4(j) of the California Health and Safety Code, you must file a verified claim stating your interest in the property with the Superior Court’s Civil Division, Room 385, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California 93408. Claim forms are available from the Clerk of the above court and also online at https://www. courts.ca.gov/documents/mc200.pdf.
Furthermore, an endorsed copy of the verified claim must also be served on the District Attorney, Asset Forfeiture Unit, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, 4th Floor, San Luis Obispo, California 93408, within 30 days of filing the claim with the Superior Court’s Civil Division.
Both the District Attorney’s Office and the Interested Party filing the claim are entitled to conduct reciprocal requests for discovery in preparation for a hearing. The provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure shall apply to the proceedings unless inconsistent with the provisions or procedures set forth in the Health and Safety Code (Section 11488.5(c)(3)). The Interested Party in entitled to legal representation at a hearing, although not one appointed at public expense, and has the right to present evidence and witnesses, and to cross-examine plaintiff’s witnesses, but there is no right to avoid testifying at a civil hearing.
The failure to timely file and secure a verified claim stating an interest in the property in the Superior Court will result in the property being declared or ordered forfeited to the State of California and distributed pursuant to the provisions of Health and Safety Code section 11489 without further notice or hearing.
DATED: March 11, 2025
DAN DOW District Attorney
Kenneth Jorgensen Deputy District Attorney March 13, 20, & 27, 2025
Free Will Astrology by Rob Brezsny
Homework: Can you treat yourself even better than you already do? Newsletter.freewillastrology.com
ARIES
(March 21-April 19): What can you do to show how much you care about everyone and everything that deserves your love? Now is a fantastic time to unleash a flood of gratitude and appreciation that takes very practical forms. Don’t just beam warm and fuzzy feelings toward your favorite people and animals, in other words. Offer tangible blessings that will actually enhance their lives. Find your own personally meaningful ways to nourish all that nourishes you.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20): Ancient Egyptians loved the color blue. The mineral azurite and the semiprecious stones turquoise and lapis lazuli satisfied their fascination to some degree but were rare and difficult to work with. So the Egyptians decided to fabricate their own pigment. After extensive experimentation, using copper, silica, and lime, they succeeded. The hue they made is known as Egyptian blue. I heartily endorse a comparable process for you in the coming weeks, Taurus. Identify the experience, substance, or feeling you really, really want more of, and then resolve to get as much of it as you really, really want.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 20): Dandelions germinate quickly and grow fast. Because of their deep taproots, they are hardy. Once they establish their presence in a place, they persist. Dandelions are adaptable, too, able to grow anywhere their seeds land, even from cracks in concrete. Their efficient dispersal is legendary. They produce large quantities of lightweight seeds that are easily carried by the wind. Bees love dandelions in the spring when there are few other flowers yet to provide them with nectar. I propose we make the dandelion your symbol of power in the coming weeks, Gemini. Be like them! (PS: They are also beautiful in an unostentatious way.)
CANCER
(June 21-July 22): About 36,000 years ago, humans created remarkable drawings and paintings in the Cave of Altamira, located in what we now call Spain. When an early discoverer of the art published his findings in 1880, he was met with derision. Experts accused him of forgery, saying such beautiful and technically proficient works could not have been made by ancient people, who just weren’t that smart. Eventually, though, the art was proved to be genuine. I propose we meditate on this as a metaphor for your life. It’s possible that your abilities may be underestimated, even by you. Hidden potentials and unexpressed capacities may be close to ripening, but they will need your full confidence and boldness. Don’t let skepticism, either from your inner critic or others, hold you back.
LEO
(July 23-Aug. 22): In 1977, NASA launched two Voyager probes to study our solar system’s outer planets. Their original mission was designed to last a few years. But in 2025, they still continue to send back useful information from the great beyond, far past Uranus and Neptune, and into interstellar space. I suspect that now is also a good time for you Leos to seek valuable information from adventures you began years ago. Even if those past experiences have not yielded relevant revelations recently, they may soon do so. Be alert for ways to harvest new riches from old memories.
VIRGO
(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): About 3,775 years ago, a Babylonian man named Nanni wrote a crabby letter to Ea-nasir, a merchant who had sold him substandard copper ingots. Nanni was also upset that his servant was treated rudely. It is the oldest customer complaint in history. With this as our touchstone, I remind you that maintaining high standards is always crucial for your longterm success. Others may be tempted to cut corners, but your natural integrity is one of your superpowers. Please redouble your commitment to providing highest value, Virgo. And ask for it from others, too.
LIBRA
(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Blogger Yukiko Kisaki writes about the Japanese concept of ma. She says it’s “the emptiness full of possibilities, like a promise yet to be fulfilled. It’s the purposeful pauses in a speech that make words stand out; the quiet time we all need to make our busy lives meaningful; the silence between the notes that make the music.” According to my analysis, Libra, you will be wise to make ma a central theme in the coming weeks. I invite you to research the power of pauses. Rather than filling up every gap, allow space for pregnant blankness. Trust that in being open to vacancy, you will make room for unexpected riches.
SCORPIO
(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The literal meaning of the Japanese word yohen is “kiln mutation.” It refers to a type of glaze that undergoes unpredictable variations in color when baked in a kiln. The finished pottery that emerges displays patterns and hues that are blends of the artist’s intention and accidental effects created by the heat. I would love to see you carry out metaphorical versions of yohen in the coming weeks, Scorpio. Suggested meditations: 1. Collaborate to create beauty with energies that aren’t entirely manageable. 2. Undertake projects that require both careful preparation and a willingness to adapt to shifting conditions. 3. Engage with opportunities that will have the best outcomes if you relinquish some control.
SAGITTARIUS
(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A big party is underway in your astrological House of Self-Understanding and Self-Definition. The near future will be a favorable time to discover yourself in greater depth and bring your identity into clearer focus. I see this mostly as a task for you to carry out in intimate conversation with yourself. It’s also fine to solicit the feedback of allies who have insight into your nature, but I urge you to rely heavily on your private investigations. How can you deepen your knowledge of the reasons you are here on earth? Can you learn more about your dormant potentials? Who are you, exactly?
CAPRICORN
(Dec. 22-Jan.19): Ethiopian marathon runner Abebe Bikila was selected by his country to compete in the 1960 Rome Olympics. But the honor was offered shortly before the games began, and he had to scramble to get there in time. When he arrived for the main event, he couldn’t find any running shoes in local stores that fit comfortably. So he decided to go barefoot for the 26.2-mile race. Success! He won, setting a new world-record time. I propose we make him your role model, Capricorn. May he inspire you to respond to an apparent scarcity or deficiency by calling on earthy alternatives. May you adjust to a problem by deepening your reliance on your natural self.
AQUARIUS
(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): After being part of two journeys to Antarctica, Aquarian explorer Ernest Shackleton (1874-1922) assembled a team to try what no one had ever done: crossing the entire continent on foot with pack dogs and motorized sledges. But the proposed 1,800-mile expedition failed soon after it began. That’s when Shackleton did what he is most famous for. His leadership during the harrowing struggle to survive became legendary. I don’t think you will face anything remotely resembling his challenges in the coming weeks. But I suspect that your response to tests and trials will define your success. As you encounter obstacles, you will treat them as opportunities to showcase your resourcefulness and adaptability. You will inspire others to summon resiliency, and you will bring out their best as together you engage in creative problem-solving. Trials will become triumphs.
PISCES
(Feb. 19-March 20): I’m not exactly sure where you are going, Pisces, but I’m certain you are headed in the right direction. Your instincts for self-love are at a peak. Your ability to see your best possible future is lucid and strong. Your commitment to gracefully serving all that gracefully serves you is passionate and rigorous. I will congratulate you in advance for locating the exact, robust resources you need, not mediocre resources that are only half-interesting. ∆
