New Times - July 25, 2024

The Right Heaters for Every Project

• MUSCLES AND LIGAMENTS ALSO INJECTED

Strictly Starkey 28 the rest

Classifieds 33 Brezsny’s Astrology 39

Editor’s note

How much of a story can be told in just 55 words? That really depends on who you are, and the stories published in this issue tell as much of a story as is possible in that limited number of words. The authors were able express emotion, characters, and a storyline in these tiny tales—weaving travesties, triumphs, and trials with their allotted space: a 55-word story with no more than a seven-word title. We received submissions all year long from all over the world for our annual short story contest. You’ll find the judges’ favorites inside this issue [8]

Also this week, read about Paso Robles’ fight over allowing dogs in parks [4]; Gunsmokin’ at the Melodrama [24]; and Saucelito Canyon’s 50th anniversary [30].

We’re shining the spotlight on membership this year because we believe that if we ask you, our readers, to contribute what you think we’re worth, we can build a sustainable business model for community news, arts, entertainment reporting for years to come.

Camillia Lanham editor

cover image by Leni Litonjua cover design by Alex Zuniga

Miller

New Times is published every Thursday for your enjoyment and distributed to more than 100,000 readers in San Luis Obispo County. New Times is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. The contents of New Times are copyrighted by New Times and may not be reproduced without specific written permission from the publishers. We welcome contributions and suggestions. Accompany any submissions with a self-addressed stamped envelope. We cannot assume responsibility for unsolicited submissions. All letters received become the property of the publishers. Opinions expressed in byline material are not necessarily those of New Times New Times is available on microfilm at the SLO City-County Library, and through Proquest Company, 789 E Eisenhower Pkwy., Ann Arbor, MI 48106, as part of the Alternative Press Project. Subscriptions to New Times are $156 per year. Because a product or service is advertised in New Times does not necessarily mean we endorse its use.

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Our purpose: to present news and issues of importance to our readers; to reflect honestly the unique spirit of the region; and to be a complete, current, and accurate guide to arts and entertainment on the Central Coast, leading the community in a positive direction consistent with its past.

Dogs allowed in Paso Robles parks after 40 years

The Paso Robles City Council overturned a longtime ordinance restricting dogs from all city parks, a rule historically and regularly broken by dog owners.

The ordinance change was first discussed at the City Council meeting on June 4 and was brought back at the July 16 meeting.

Paso Robles Police Cmdr. Ricky Lehr told the council that since the city has shifted more efforts toward tourism, businesses have as well, often providing dog treats and water bowls for those walking their dogs around town.

“It’s accepting that dogs are a part of the family and [welcoming] people to bring their dogs down to the city park,” Lehr said.

Allowing dogs in parks sparked controversy during the meeting as council members questioned how the city and Police Department would maintain cleanliness and safety in parks. Councilmember Chris Bausch asked Lehr how the department intends to enforce dogs urinating in the park.

“How do we clean that up?” he asked.

Lehr said there is no plan to enforce urinating, but the department will enforce the removal of animal feces.

Bausch said despite the existing restriction, dogs are still pooping in the park.

“If we can’t enforce it now, what makes me believe we will enforce the new ordinance?” Bausch asked.

Police Chief Damian Nord stepped in when Bausch listed other ordinances that he felt the department wasn’t enforcing, such as cannabis delivery, loitering, and illegal fireworks.

“Mr. Bausch, we enforce all laws,” Nord said. “It’s a park. People bring their dogs to hotels, people bring

Council member recall headed for the ballot in Grover Beach

their dogs to restaurants, people bring their dogs everywhere with them.”

Bausch apologized for bringing it up and expressed concern about the fiscal impact of lifting the restriction. Paso’s staff report, however, stated that the city wasn’t anticipating any additional expenses. Other concerns included aggressive dogs, with Councilmember Fred Strong saying he was afraid that kids would get hurt.

Nord said that the police couldn’t predict whether it would happen, adding that it wasn’t a problem he had seen in his time with the Police Department. If any situation becomes “egregious,” Nord said,

the department would act and maintain order within the parks.

Bausch made a motion to table the council’s decision until a fiscal report was created but it failed 2-3. The council approved the change 4-1 under the condition that a fiscal report would later be provided determining expenses for city-provided poop bags and signage.

Dogs must be leashed while in parks, and police will still monitor and enforce unnecessary noise, aggressive animals, and animal waste. Fines will start at $100 and increase per offense. ∆

—Libbey Hanson

Facing a recall during the Nov. 5 election, Grover Beach City Councilmember Daniel Rushing received support from some community members during the July 22 meeting.

“Daniel Rushing has served on City Council since being appointed in 2021 and then ran for reelection in 2022. He has been a 20-year involved resident, parent, and husband, and brings marketing and sales knowledge and nonprofit experience to our council along with intelligence, strong listening skills, and a cooperative attitude,” resident Nancy Allison said during public comment.

Rushing’s recall came after a Dec. 11, 2023, council meeting where he, Mayor Karen Bright, and Councilmember Zach Zimmerman voted to raise water rates by almost 20 percent over the next four years to help fund the city’s portion of the Central Coast Blue water recycling project. That vote upset Grover Beach residents who didn’t support the project and decided to form

Grover H2O to combat it.

Grover H2O member Lesley Mar served Bright, Zimmerman, and Rushing with an intent to recall them during a Jan. 8 council meeting. Due to multiple city rejections of the petitions, the deadline passed to recall Mayor Bright and councilmember Zimmerman, whose seats are up for election in November, leaving only Rushing to face a recall.

Grover Beach resident Steve Liberman told the council on July 22 that he believes the recall is a personal attack because the issues that drove Grover H2O to initiate the recalls have been resolved.

“You agreed to take on big issues so we would not have to; thank you for that. Central Coast Blue was a well-intended project with runaway costs. You did the right thing and backed out of it. Utility rates that were increased to fund the project have been reduced. You did the right thing, thank you for that,” he said. “This is a personal attack on all of us. Here’s some truth: Grover Beach is the only city in our county with term limits for our council members, and one of two for term limits for our mayor. We

already ensure a regular change in representative leadership.”

In April, council members decided to pull out of the Central Coast Blue agreement and, in May, they voted to revert water rates to what they had been.

One Grover H2O member responded to Liberman’s comment and said that the recall wasn’t a personal attack—it was simply a function of community engagement.

“Recalls are something that’s available to the community as a tool to use when a council isn’t meeting the interest of the general public,” he said. “When the water issue was voted on, it was a record number of protesters that came to this city. More than they’ve ever seen. ... Each council member had the opportunity to see what the people of the community wanted, and three council members chose to ignore that, and that’s what the recall is representing.”

Liberman said he feels like the group has gone too far, and he’s forming a campaign committee called Grover Forward.

“I’m going to defend our community from

GRAB YOUR POOP BAGS Paso Robles City Council lifted a rule restricting dogs in city parks, allowing dogs to be leashed in parks like the one downtown and requiring owners to clean up after their animals.

PHOTO FROM CITY OF PASO ROBLES WEBSITE

this attack on Councilmember Rushing, which is an attack against all of us,” he said. “We are all citizens of Grover Beach. I love this community; I’ve done a lot for this community, and I will not let the misguided acts of a few disrupt our city without a fight.”

The city will call for a special municipal election for the voters in Rushing’s district to be held on same day as the general election, Nov. 5.

“This consolidation aims to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the administration of the election,” the July 22 staff report states.

The ballot will present the question: “Shall Daniel Rushing be recalled (removed) from the office of council member of District 2 of the city of Grover Beach.” Voters will have the option to vote “yes” or “no.” A majority vote of 50 percent plus 1 will be required to recall Rushing.

During the July 22 meeting, SLO County 3rd District Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg spoke during public comment in support of Rushing.

“I always look at Grover Beach as such a beacon of progress, a beacon of civility, and really just a bunch of cool, great people coming together, and it really disturbs me that this is happening tonight in regard to going ahead with the recall,” she said. “Being in [a] leadership role requires us to have thick skin, requires us to make tough decisions, requires us to be able to put our head down on the pillow at night and feel good about what we did.

“But what it doesn’t require us to do is to be insulted and to be taken in such a term where you’re less than treated in an honorable manner.”

—Samantha Herrera

SLO County’s Master Plan on Aging gains steam with first round of community input

SLO County’s year-old effort to spot local hurdles for its senior citizen population recently received its first set of survey responses from residents.

While survey lead and national consulting firm Health Management Associates needed to review responses collected from July 17 to 19 during town halls, Associate Principal Michael Butler told New Times that community members from all over the county expressed their concerns during the discussion stages.

“We had a lot of worries about caregiving,” Butler said. “I think there are a lot of worries and misinformation about caregiving. People are really fearful that they’re going to need it, and they don’t really know how to access it.”

People also asked for more centralized access and coordination of information, resources, and support services. Butler added that community members often don’t understand that a decentralized system exists by design so that individual issues can be tackled by the respective city, county, state, and/or federal agency.

Participants highlighted mobility and transportation issues too, underscoring a desire for vans and shuttles that provide door-to-door services and require less time to arrange in advance. They also spoke of wanting a patient advocate to help aging residents move through the medical

system. Town hall attendees expressed frustration with the lack of health care professionals, which increases wait times, prompting people to travel outside the county to find care.

“People talked about the epidemic of loneliness and how we can do a whole lot more to connect people to social activities that are age-appropriate,” Diaz said.

More than 100 people participated in the Health Management Associates survey conducted at senior centers in Paso Robles and Morro Bay; at libraries in Atascadero, SLO, and Nipomo; and at United Church of Christ in SLO.

The consulting firm collected data with the help of a $199,826 grant that SLO County received in summer 2023 from the California Department of Aging’s $3 million Local Aging and Disability Action Planning Grant Program.

According to SLO County Adult Protective Services Program Manager Robert Diaz, Health Management Associates received $182,535 of the county grant, which covers the full cost of implementing the grant program and the initial planning and development of the San Luis Obispo Master Plan on Aging.

“The consultant services include but are not limited to their staff time, bilingual translation services, the development of the surveys, advisory committee meeting facilitation, program outreach, community meeting facilitation, social/ traditional media awareness advertising (in development), materials costs, mileage, limited incentives (first 400 survey participants) such as gift cards,” Diaz said via email.

The remaining money will pay for the county’s administrative and overhead costs to provide staff program coordination of the grant, the consultant, and the master plan’s advisory committee during the grant period from July 1, 2023, to March 31, 2025.

With the first round of surveys done, the consulting firm is already thinking of ways to improve for the next round from Aug. 14 to 16.

“We’re trying to do outreach to the Spanish-speaking community and … trying to work with Promotores networks,” Butler said. “I’ve gotten feedback that we need to schedule some of the meetings a little bit later into the evening.”

Butler added that the consulting firm wants to conduct more survey meetings in parts of the county that got left out in July, like Cambria and sections of South County.

The master plan project wants to collect surveys until the end of September. Survey participants must ideally be senior citizens, adults living with disabilities, and their caregivers. But all residents can attend the community events and provide their perspectives on aging in SLO County. The collected data will be brought before the advisory committee to begin creating feasible solutions to the identified problems.

Interested participants can email county program manager Diaz at rwdiaz@co.slo. ca.us with the subject line “SLOMPA Survey Interest” or “SLOMPA Support.” They must include their name, email, preferred contact information, and the city they live in. Participants who want to fill out the survey online will receive a link and a QR code in English and Spanish. Project leaders will reach out to interested community members for in-person events that are scheduled for mid-August.

“The SLOMPA [San Luis Obispo Master Plan On Aging] project … is working to connect to community members outside of these in-person events,” Diaz said. “The SLOMPA effort is always looking for community and local business support to help spread awareness of the SLOMPA and to assist us in collecting survey data.”

—Bulbul Rajagopal

Ironman cancels next year’s race in Morro Bay

Organizers of the Ironman triathlon canceled the 2025 Morro Bay event after swimming conditions during this year’s race prevented more than 300 competitors from finishing.

According to the city of Morro Bay, the city signed a contract with the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) Ironman, to host the race from 2023 to 2025; however, WTC ended the contract one year earlier than planned.

The city found out about the organization’s decision to cancel via a July 2 post on Ironman 70.3 Morro Bay’s Facebook page, a staff report from the July 23 City Council meeting stated.

“It is always our goal to deliver the best possible events and experiences for our athletes. However, based on athlete feedback and further evaluation of the limited swim course options that have presented a variability of challenging conditions, we did not feel it was in the best interest to continue producing this event,” the Facebook post read. “We understand the disappointment this may cause for participants who enjoyed this event and its beautiful location or were looking forward to taking on this course.”

Morro Bay received official notice of the decision the next day, on July 3, after the city reached out to WTC.

“Not only were we surprised by the WTC’s decision to cancel, we were disappointed in how WTC communicated their cancellation decision with us. Undoubtedly, the city fulfilled our obligations as a hosting agency,” the staff report read. “In reflection, we also recognize that hosting the Ironman events has been a major task for the community. We would like to extend our gratitude to the entire community for having supported the city to host Ironman events.”

The WTC specified the decision was business-related, and not a reflection of the city’s partnership.

City officials did not respond to New Times’ request for comment before publication.

The Ironman 70.3, or half Ironman, consists of a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride, and 13.1-mile run. During the swim portion of the 2024 Morro Bay race in May, more than 300 swimmers were forced out of the water due to strong currents, which resulted in the WTC issuing free entries to future Ironman races for those who did not finish during the swim.

California resident Grant Parker competed in both the 2023 and 2024 races at Morro Bay and completed the 2024 event despite the strong current.

He anticipated the currents because he’d studied them for months prior, he told New Times.

“The swimming conditions were exactly as I expected,” he said. “I understand where I am racing, and I research where I am racing.”

Parker said he felt confused that Ironman did not prepare racers and educate them about the tide beforehand, but he said he also felt that it’s up to competitors to understand the route and its conditions.

“I can’t blame Ironman,” he said. Parker said he was disappointed that 2025’s race was canceled. Despite the current, he said, Morro Bay was a great venue.

“We were already talking about next year,” he said.

—Libbey Hanson

County Supervisors

Paulding, Gibson to form ad hoc committee over illegal fireworks

Illegal fireworks are an increasing annoyance for residents around SLO County, prompting elected officials to form a committee to increase enforcement and prevention.

With increasing fire danger from fireworks—such as the 3.65-acre burn in Paso Robles over Fourth of July weekend— 2nd District Supervisor Bruce Gibson and 4th District Supervisor Jimmy Paulding are in the process of forming an ad hoc committee to help focus on improving the approach to firework regulations in unicorpoorated areas of the county.

“Setting off illegal fireworks is an increasing problem, raising serious safety concerns and creating a lot of noise nuisance problems,” Gibson told New Times. “So, we need to step up accountability and cite those responsible.”

Paulding told New Times that although he supports the appropriate use of safe fireworks, the county needs to do a better job at discouraging illegal fireworks, and he hopes the ad hoc committee will help with that.

“I’ve heard from a number of constituents throughout my district, many of whom are in Oceano, and the term that I hear a lot is that Oceano turns into a war zone, and then I was talking with Supervisor Gibson about what has occurred at Dog Beach in Cayucos, and we had a similar situation going on out there,” he said. “So, we decided we’d formalize an ad hoc committee with two members of our board to sit down with our Sheriff’s Office and our Cal Fire department and other departments to talk about what we can do.”

While the committee is still in the early stages of formation, it already had its first round of meetings with both the county Sheriff’s Office and Cal Fire to discuss issues such as enforcement. They are also looking for ideas about how to help community services districts across the county.

“We’ve seen other jurisdictions on the Central Coast do a good job at tackling the illegal fireworks issue,” he said. “For example, Grover Beach was pretty clear and up front with the community and said that they were going to have law

enforcement active and present on the Fourth to issue citations. They did in fact issue nine $1,000 citations for use of illegal fireworks.”

Once the committee is officially formed, Paulding said its main goal would be presenting different solutions to the county to help combat illegal fireworks.

“One of our action items is to talk about what we can do at the county and make sure that our Sheriff’s Office has the resources necessary to do more enforcement,” he said. “But that we’re also using tools and techniques like drones in order to increase enforcement efforts.”

—Samantha Herrera Nipomo ranch

witnesses avocado theft worth at least $3,000

A rural Nipomo ranch’s bounty made it the target of an unusual form of grand theft.

On July 11, San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office deputies retrieved 500 pounds of avocados stolen from the ranch by two Santa Maria men. The avocados are valued between $3,000 to $5,000. Grand theft occurs when someone steals property or services worth more than $950.

“The property owner contacted the Sheriff’s Office and reported a theft in progress,” Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tony Cipolla said. “We have received numerous calls in the past from this ranch.”

Cipolla told New Times that the Sheriff’s Office will not be disclosing the name of the ranch for security reasons. A photograph produced by the deputies shows that the culprits Baltazar Garcia, 40, and Wilson Carrero, 38, managed to stuff at least five large sacks with stolen avocados.

Both men were booked into county jail in the early hours of July 12, with Carrero facing six charges related to grand theft of “fruit/fowl/etc.,” the possession of drug paraphernalia, and the possession of a controlled substance. Garcia faces two charges of grand theft.

“Agriculture crimes include not only thefts of produce, fruit, nuts, and livestock but also includes equipment theft (generators, fuel, tools, etc),” Cipolla said. “Equipment theft is the most common kind of ag theft.”

He added that agricultural thefts have remained fairly consistent in SLO County over the years.

Take it from Nipomo resident Jonathan Joe Gentzel.

“I work at Tractor Supply in Nipomo, and on Fourth of July someone managed to steal all of our avocado trees and even more! Ended up taking two pallets worth of plants,” he told New Times via Facebook.

Fellow Nipomo resident Lupe Esquivel noted the frequency and variety of agricultural crimes.

“Nipomo and ag [Arroyo Grande] has so many ag crimes from trucks getting broke into, windshields smashed in, to produce being stolen,” Esquivel said via Facebook. ∆

—Bulbul Rajagopal

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Tiny tales

Ahallmark of the 55 Fiction stories submitted to our annual short story contest is the “surprise” at the end that ties the preceding sentences together. They show up in stories about murders, love, food, animals, cars—really, you can craft a tiny twist into any tall tale. We’re here to publish the best ones annually. We received hundreds and hundreds of entries from all over the world: 55 words at a time with up to seven words for a headline. Our judges combed through them all, and here are the final 23 for 2024’s contest.

—Camillia Lanham

The world’s shortest stories, with a twist

Kaitlin

He was startled to see the stunning young woman approach the stage. When she posed, cameras flashed, and people cheered. He thought, “Who is this? Where did she come from?”

She was so poised, so confident.

As she strode by him, her tassel swaying, she looked his way and mouthed the words, “Love you, Dad.”

Mark Turner San Luis Obispo

Eureka

The top grad students worked in my lab last semester. All failed miserably!

This new one though, shows promise.

“Timer’s calibrated professor, shall I switch on the power?”

“You’ve put in the research. … You’ve got this!”

Three, two, one … ding! With nervous anticipation, we peeked through the glass door. Success!!

My Hot Pocket didn’t explode.

Bloody offerings

The door slammed, jerking my head forward. Crack! This was a dark ritual. A metallic taste filled my throat. The offering swung back and forth from the door handle as if from a noose, blood dripping. The two shiny quarters were hollow compensation for my pain. All of this for the socalled tooth fairy.

Tina Niebur SLO

Agatha’s three wishes

Agatha, 93, rubbed the lamb. A genie appeared:

“I’ll grant you three wishes.”

“Blimey! If only this had happened when I was younger.”

“Granted.” (KAZINGG!) “You’re now 92.”

“WHAT?! That wasn’t … ”

“What’s your second wish?”

“Okay. Let me think for a second.”

“Granted. What’s your third wish?”

“C’MON! Leave it, will you?”

“Granted. Goodbye.”

S.M. Chon

Joakim Mortensen Brabrand, Denmark

My illusion of life

When I was dying I asked my daughter, “Was I hard on you when you were young?” Her father thought I was. My heart tightened as I waited for the answer. “Not at all, mom.”

I breathed out when she answered and realized I’d been holding my breath for most of her life.

Elizabeth Jacobson

Arroyo Grande

Pointless problem

One way to prevent AI from causing trouble is keeping it busy. Our department designs and feeds pointless problems to thinking machines. We often play them against each other. I give them stories and they have to tell if they were written by a human or a machine. Take this one. What do you think?

Edwin Vartany Glendale, California

UV

My eyes shut in anticipation. Anxiety fills me as the walls begin to close in. I frantically look around as I am locked inside a coffin. I’m not dead, but will die of cancer soon if I don’t get out. Heat fills the void. I press the “up” button. I’m never tanning again. Owen Wick Pewaukee, Wisconsin

The furry attacker

“No. He’s here.” The women looked at the open door, terrified.

The footsteps grew closer.

“Mom, wh–.” She put her hand over his mouth.

“You can’t make a sound,” she sternly replied. It’s like nails on a wood floor. It entered.

“Happy birthday, Max!” They both sprung up to give their furry friend a hug.

Bowen McKay Hartland, Wisconsin

Who’s who?

We were close friends for ages. He has dementia now. He thinks he’s had a wonderful life. He keeps talking about his adventures, his achievements, the prizes he’s won, and all the ladies. … Nobody’s figured it out, but the crazy geezer thinks he’s me. … Let him be happy, I say. Why tell him the truth?

Edwin Vartany Glendale, California

Consequences

Coming home from the bar late at night, the road is blurry, tingling from the whiskey running through my veins.

I will be fine.

Deer:

I swerve into headlights boring through my soul. Head on into a car I recognize.

Music is blaring as I slip into darkness. My son always played his music loud.

Nikko Javier Hartland, Wisconsin

What love is all about

T his amazing day at the age of 80, I enjoy my country leisure life.

Looking for a little special love, I decided to check out the wife.

She was working in the kitchen, being motivated for a special goal.

The lovely lady was making cookies, so moving in slowly, I got to lick the bowl.

Paul Kunzler Creston

Friends of the crows

T he crows stood atop the post, awaiting something. Usually, it was some nuts that the man in the house left there. He had befriended them some years ago. They enjoyed being around him, but they hadn’t seen him in weeks. Today, a woman left the house. She walked toward them and placed down some meat.

Ethan Congdon Hartland, Wisconsin

Sarah goes to a TED talk

Starving artist Sarah listened attentively.

“First, get a website.”

Sarah groaned, picturing hours spent creating content instead of painting.

“Next, gain loyal followers.”

Sarah had loyal cats.

The PowerPoint bullets included networking, meet-and-greets …

Sarah threw up her hands. There was paint under her nails.

“Da Vinci didn’t do marketing!”

The speaker sighed. “DaVinci was funded.”

Diane Smith Arroyo Grande

Morning meditation

He stood there, meditating. A monk in prayer. The sharper the knife, the cleaner the kill. The cleaner the kill, the keener the thrill. He licked his lips and anticipated the glide of metal through flesh, the juices running.

He brought the blade down and frowned as half a grape tumbled away on the floor.

Darren Chang Clovis, California

Endgame

Sohere she was.

Her husband bankrupt because of her. Her daughter going to prison and seeming relieved about it.

Her son owned a house, yes, but was likely to follow in his father’s footsteps very soon.

She smiled and raised her arms in triumph.

She was finally going to win a game of Monopoly.

Joakim Mortensen Brabrand, Denmark

Vacation

“Hey,

ma.”

“Hi, Honey, how’s the beach?”

“We’re getting closer to the water right now; we’re going to run into it.”

“That’s nice, dear. I read an article saying there were five shark attacks last week.”

“I don’t think we’ll be worrying about that.”

“OK, be careful. How was your flight?”

“We’re still on it.”

Zombies

I grip my sword. Turn the corner, swinging with all my might, eyes closed, hoping for a miracle. Silence. Phew. That was close. I turn around and leap. How can there be more?! I charge ahead but am outnumbered. Screaming, I curl in a ball on the floor.

“Dude, just take off the VR goggles.”

Katie Curry Hartland, Wisconsin

Owen Wick Pewaukee, Wisconsin

A knightly ending

The knight collapsed against a broken wall and withdrew the sword from his chest. Fresh blood gushed out from the wound and stained the grass below him.

As he took his final breaths, two hands from behind removed the headset from his face.

“Well?” the sales guy asked. “Ready to move onto Level Two?”

Shannon Ouimet Mundelein, Illinois

The case of Henry Roberts

Harry believed he could fly, so one day he went out to a bridge and threw himself off.

This being a 55-word story, you might now expect me to reveal that Harry was a bird. He wasn’t. He was a confused man.

Luckily, the bridge was two feet above a onefoot-deep brook.

Joakim Mortensen Brabrand, Denmark

Tuesday morning on the A10 approach

“L icense,” said the officer. “You have any idea how fast you were going?”

“Well, you know, officer, that’s relative, as Einstein said. Depends on the eyes that see. Actually, I’m running a bit late for a lecture I’m giving on Einstein.”

“Does it pay well?”

“Yes, actually. Why?”

“Then the fine’s gonna feel relatively small.”

Joakim Mortensen Brabrand, Denmark

At 70

Her lifelong philosophy was, “You gain superpowers the longer you live.”

In childhood, she’d discovered her talent for art and writing. College brought out skills in critical thinking, communication, and leadership. All superpowers in demand during her career.

Now, the community facing labor shortages, she raised her wrinkled hand. The last superpower revealed itself: invisibility.

Diane Smith Arroyo Grande

Fiction vs. reality

“How’s the book coming along?” asked the editor.

“Good! I thought of a way to make the story more interesting,” replied the author.

“That’s great! I knew you were up to something; you’ve been coming in less frequently.”

“Yeah, I decided to kill of a few characters from the storyline.”

“You’re writing an autobiography … .”

Lizzy Santora and Sophia Smuklavskiy Fair Lawn, New Jersey

The sweet one

The doorbell rings

My daughter answers. And there he is.

“Who’s been good this year?”

All five grandchildren shriek, “Me! I have!”

They watch, wide-eyed, as he and his giant bag enter the den.

I’m on the couch, and my granddaughter—the sweet one—crawls onto my lap.

“Grandma,” she whispers, “Santa’s wearing Grandad’s shoes.”

Dianna Bond Highlands Ranch, Colorado

Smog Check

COMPLETE TESTING & REPAIR

BY SAMANTHA HERRERA

Kids day

Art Center Morro Bay is offering kids the opportunity to dig deeper and explore their creative side this summer with art classes.

“Every year we have a specific theme, but this year we’re going to leave it open-ended so that kids can learn the particular process of painting,” Art Center Morro Bay President Kathleen Heil told New Times.

Parents of children between the ages of 6 and 12 can sign up online at artcentermorrobay.org and enroll their children in workshops that Heil said encourage kids to gain confidence in exploring their creativity.

“I’m just amazed when I come across people and I ask, ‘Where is your area of creativity?’ and some people just don’t understand that,” she said. “We want to get these kids started young and let them see there’s different areas to explore and it can be a lifelong learning process. There’s always something new and different to learn, and they’re usually really eager at that stage to explore.”

Paired with two art teachers, Zoe and Kathryn, who Heil said are young and full of enthusiasm, students in the basic workshop will learn the difference between watercolor and acrylic painting with room to advance from there.

“So they start with that and then they learn what happens when you mix certain colors together,” she said. “But then another class is a mixed media class and they’re combining found objects and cardboard and recycled materials to make art.”

Heil said this is also a fabulous socializing opportunity for kids while on summer break and gives parents a few free hours.

Parents can choose between an array of options, including one-day classes that run on Fridays and have two sessions available—a morning session that runs from 9 a.m. to noon and an afternoon session from 1 to 4 p.m. Parents can also opt their kids into a two-day program—either July 30 and Aug. 1

from 9:30 a.m. to noon or Aug. 7 and 8 at the same time.

“We’re also trying to expose them to various things, to see that they really can make art from a lot of different things,” she said. “We’re trying to say, ‘Hey, you know, if you’re really good with pencil drawing, you can add color to it or you should try printing.’”

In previous years, Heil said, they have had local artists come and give demonstrations to the kids, such as a woman who showed the power of 3D printing and made items ranging from metal plates to potatoes.

Being a technical illustrator and artist herself, Heil said she thinks classes such as these are just as crucial to child development as traditional subject classes.

“I started out with essentially analytical geometry and then you go to the other end of art, where it’s not representational at all, it’s a matter of colors and shapes and opens the door for kids,” she said. “I think it’s so crucial, and a lot of schools aren’t offering art anymore because of their budget cuts.”

Fast facts

• Running through Aug. 25, the Cambria Center for Arts is showing the exhibit Here and Back again by Cambria artist Mauro Maressa highlighting his life in the world of animation and special effects. Beginning his passion for the arts by painting and sculpting, he used those skills to enhance his professional work as an animator. Community members can view his work, which ranges from 2D and 3D art to sculptures, for free. The art center also encourages community members to get involved and place ribbons on the art pieces they like the most. For more information, visit cambriaarts.org. ∆

BIG PURPLE BUILDING After enrolling online, parents are encouraged to drop their kids off at Art Center Morro Bay to begin their summer art program.

BY JOHN ASHBAUGH

Swapping horses

We’re mid-stream in the presidential election, but Biden dropping out is good for America

In late May 1864, a convention of Republicans met in Cleveland to determine who should be the standardbearer for their relatively new party. Clearly it was not incumbent President Abraham Lincoln, who had so badly bungled the Union cause in the Civil War. Already that month, the Army of the Potomac had suffered more than 36,000 casualties in battles in the Wilderness and at Spotsylvania Courthouse. Yet another defeat was looming in the continued campaign to seize the Confederate capital in Richmond. The convention turned to John C. Fremont of California, instead of the unpopular Lincoln.

Just a week later, a competing convention of Republicans who still supported Lincoln met in Baltimore, renaming their gathering the National Union Party. They asked Lincoln to accept their nomination but insisted on dropping incumbent Vice President Hannibal Hamlin, one of the Radical Republicans. Instead, they substituted Andrew Johnson of Tennessee, the only Southern senator who had remained loyal to the Union.

Lincoln’s response is legendary: “I do not allow myself to suppose that … I am the best man in America, but rather they have concluded that it is not best to swap horses

Housing insecurity in SLO is a community crisis

My life has been marked by seasons of triumph and challenge. I faced homelessness in my early teens and again in my late teens, sleeping in my car or couch surfing. These early experiences taught me the harsh realities of housing insecurity.

Today I am working toward a master’s degree in political science. Despite my progress, I continue to face housing challenges. Two years ago, I was homeless once more, and worked hard to gain stability again.

My story is one of resilience and determination, but it also shines a light on problems in our housing system that must be fixed. The high cost of living, jobs that don’t pay a living wage, and exorbitant rent prices in San Luis Obispo County are not just numbers on a page—they represent real struggles for real people.

The dream of owning a home in San Luis Obispo County, once an attainable goal for many, has now fallen by the wayside for countless residents. A recent report by Zillow reveals a troubling trend: three cities in the county—San Luis Obispo, Arroyo Grande, and Cambria—have sped into the exclusive “million-dollar cities club.” This dramatic acceleration in home prices underscores the pressing issue of housing affordability plaguing our community.

Such exorbitant costs deter prospective homebuyers and exert immense pressure on the rental market, where prices have also

while crossing the river.”

Lincoln did accept the nomination, with new VP nominee Andrew Johnson— and together, the National Union Party won the November election. Tragically, Lincoln was killed only five weeks after his inauguration. Andrew Johnson, the only horse that had changed, proved to be a dreadful successor.

Eighty years later, in 1944 while World War II still raged in Europe and in the Pacific, Franklin D. Roosevelt campaigned with the same line from Lincoln: “Don’t change horses in the middle of the stream.” Americans reelected FDR to a fourth term, but with moderate Sen. Harry Truman of Missouri in place of the incumbent populist firebrand Henry Wallace. With the death of FDR in April 1945, the choice of Truman proved fateful: He ended WWII with the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and became the first of nine American presidents to manage the Cold War.

Now—once again, 160 years after Lincoln-Johnson and 80 years after the Roosevelt-Truman victory—Democrats are, indeed, changing horses in the middle of the stream.

All Americans—not just Democrats— should be eternally grateful to President

skyrocketed. This vicious cycle makes renting even a modest apartment a financial burden for many residents.

As home prices surge, landlords seeking excessive profits are hiking rents steeply. For residents already struggling to make ends meet, these increases can force them to choose between paying rent or meeting other essential needs such as food, clothing, and health care.

Recently, renters mobilized to form the San Luis Obispo Tenants Union (SLOTU), a coalition of renters and their allies seeking to repair the long-term damage done to our housing system by out-of-control costs, landlord neglect, and inadequate supply of the right kinds of homes in the right locations. SLOTU champions the cause of housing justice and advocates for safe, secure, affordable, and easily accessible housing as a fundamental human right.

SLOTU is pressing local governments to update and modernize their housing codes, provide more tools for code enforcement, and enact more robust tenant protections. We want city attorneys and county counsel to use their authority under California’s Tenant Protection Act to stop illegal rent increases and prohibit landlords from evicting tenants without cause.

The urgent need to reshape our housing system cannot be overstated. Beyond the economic damage, unaffordable housing threatens the social fabric of our community, leading to displacement, homelessness, and ever-widening inequality. If we stand

Biden for his success in defeating Donald Trump in 2020. We applaud his forbearance in turning over this task now, four years later, to his inspired choice for vice president, Kamala Harris. Democrats are already uniting behind Harris and will make every effort to elect her in November.

The question now is who Kamala Harris will choose to be her running mate in this campaign? Rarely has this decision been so important in healing the nation’s wounded spirit. Seldom has it been so necessary to find a running mate that can win that broad center of public opinion sought by every successful candidate.

Harris should look to the nation’s history to see an example of a presidential nominee choosing their vice president with a view toward that center of the political spectrum:

In his 1900 campaign for reelection, William McKinley had many choices to replace his VP for his first term; Garret Hobart had died of heart disease a year earlier. McKinley sought to capitalize on the immense popularity of Spanish American War hero Theodore Roosevelt, even though “TR” was already widely known to be a reformer completely out of step with the mainstream corporate laissez-faire economics of the McKinley administration.

That ticket also won a hard-fought campaign in November of 1900. TR proved to be an extraordinary choice when he succeeded McKinley after his

together and demand meaningful change, we can create a future where every resident of our county has a place to call home—a future where housing is not a luxury for the wealthy

assassination in September 1901.

Kamala Harris has a variety of excellent choices in the daunting task of selecting her vice president. Governors Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, Andy Broshears of Kentucky, Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, or Roy Cooper of North Carolina.

My choice: Adam Kinzinger, former GOP member of Congress, now an Independent. Kinzinger is an outspoken veteran of the House Committee to Investigate the Jan. 6 Insurrection.

This choice would be the equivalent of the 1864 Republicans’ choice to reform itself— and to rename itself—as the National Union Party.

No other choice would send such a strong message of national unity. As the VP nominee, Kinzinger would best demonstrate a resolve to halt our drift toward polarization and political violence.

But if Kamala must choose a Democrat, I’d suggest Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona. As a retired Naval officer and former astronaut, he comes closest to the “war hero” image of Theodore Roosevelt. And Kelly is a strong campaigner, from an important swing state, and fully capable of stepping into the role of president should the worst happen.

Above all, we need to thank President Joe Biden for giving us the opportunity to change horses and place a younger generation in the saddle of leadership. ∆

John Ashbaugh wrote an extra column this month. Send your thoughts on the everevolving 2024 presidential election to letters@ newtimesslo.com.

LETTERS

few, but a basic human right available to everyone.

Shawna Stillwell

San Luis Obispo

Ridiculous ridicule

I’m not sure what’s more obnoxious: the fact that Paso Robles hasn’t allowed dogs in city parks for the last four decades or the concern that City Councilmember Chris Bausch brought up about preventing dogs from peeing in the parks that they can now be in.

“How do we clean that up?” Bausch asked Paso Police Cmdr. Ricky Lehr during the July 16 council meeting.

Rake the forests? Lucky for everyone, the Police Department has no plans to enforce against dog urination. Because a urination station probably isn’t going to cut it, and … I really don’t know what else to say. What?

Bausch, though, had a lot to say about this new dog rule to allow canines to run free— on leashes, of course—on city-maintained grass owned by the public. And, what about the poop? Dogs already poop in parks they’re not allowed to step a paw into.

“If we can’t enforce it now, what makes me believe we will enforce the new ordinance?”

Bausch asked, adding that Paso police don’t enforce myriad other rules, either. Cannabis delivery. Loitering. Illegal fireworks.

Rude. Aren’t you from the pro-police side of the fence?

Paso’s police chief was miffed.

“Mr. Bausch, we enforce all laws,” Chief Damien Nord said. “It’s a park. People bring their dogs to hotels, people bring their dogs to restaurants, people bring their dogs everywhere with them.”

It’s true. And it’s ridiculous that dogs have

been illegal in city parks for 40 years. What the hell started that, anyway? According to one council member, a man brought his child into the police office one day covered in dog poop. “Fix it!” he demanded.

Wow. Amazing to have so much power! Instead of installing poop-bag stations in and around city parks, the city banned dogs. Cost-effective! I mean, enforcement is tentenths of the law so … let there be dogs and dog poop bags.

You know who else has power? The people! The people of Grover Beach have so much power that one of the city’s council members is headed for a recall election in November. The Central Coast Blue recycled water project that now sits solely on Pismo Beach ’s back got Grover’s residents riled and rowdy.

But because there’s a recall on the ballot, some residents are pushing back against the residents that pushed back against the council, which already changed its mind about all the things that pissed residents off in the first place. It’s Grover H2O (former Mayor Debbie Peterson’s group of antiextra-water residents—apparently, it’s rained enough) against Grover Forward (which a random resident is threatening to start to “fight” the recall).

I’m pulling up a seat and popping some corn. South County should be sizzling come November.

City Councilmember Daniel Rushing’s

name is on the recall ballot, and he’s got supporters, not just detractors. Even SLO County 3rd District Supervisor Dawn OrtizLegg is standing up for him! She showed up to the July 22 meeting where the recall was discussed to chastise the recallers.

“I always look at Grover Beach as such a beacon of progress, a beacon of civility, and really just a bunch of cool, great people coming together, and it really disturbs me that this is happening tonight in regard to going ahead with the recall,” Ortiz-Legg said. “Being in [a] leadership role requires us to have thick skin, requires us to make tough decisions. … But what it doesn’t require us to do is to be insulted and to be taken in such a term where you’re less than treated in an honorable manner.”

Oof! Shots fired.

But she’s not wrong. A city that used to solve its differences with grace is in the throes of soap opera-style semantics and dramatic license. What happened?

Grover H2O did try to defend itself, with members saying it was nothing personal against Rushing, it’s just democracy, you know? Community engagement.

Kind of like the Ironman competition did when it announced on Facebook that it wasn’t coming back to Morro Bay next year, unbeknownst to the city of Morro Bay, which

it had a three-year unfinished contract with. It engaged the Facebook community, not the city it had business with.

In fact, the city had to reach out to the Ironman company. Only after that did Morro Bay receive confirmation that the contract would be terminated a year early. Wow. Talk about a lack of honor.

The competition’s inaugural Morro Bay races in 2023 and 2024 weren’t exactly what I’d call smooth—and apparently the race company, World Triathlon Corporation Ironman, had to refund 300 racers money after the recent event because of the trouble they’d had with the swim portion.

Tides were coming in and swimmers weren’t going out, causing hundreds of racers not to finish the competition. It’s not like tides are a surprise, though. Like, brah, check the tide charts. The water can be totally gnar.

Then there was the whole truncated racecourse issue because Morro Bay State Park wanted tens of thousands of dollars for a four-hour permit—also wild. And all the businesses that bitched about crowds blocking them but not shopping or spending money during the race. And Cambria residents complaining about bicycle race route traffic on Highway 1. This, people, is why we can’t have nice things! ∆

The Shredder is sick and tired of everyone being sick and tired. Send remedies to shredder@newtimesslo.com.

Hot Dates

BREAK A LEG

The Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA) presents its production of The Play Goes Wrong, with performances at the Solvang Festival Theater through Sunday, July 28. The cast of this backstage farce includes Madison Shaheen (left) and Jonathan Valerio (right). For tickets to the show or more info, call (805) 922-8313 or visit pcpa.org.

—Caleb Wiseblood

ARTS

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ANNIE Step into a world of hope, heart, and a little red-haired girl who believes that “The Sun’ll Come Out Tomorrow,” and enjoy this timeless musical classic. July 26 -Aug. 4 my805tix.com. Cambria Center for the Arts Theatre, 1350 Main St., Cambria.

ARTVENTURES WITH ZOE: EXPLORING

PAINT (1 TO 4 P.M.) Students will experiment with watercolor and acrylic paints to learn about color mixing, texture, mark making, and more. Designed for ages 6-12. July 26, 1-4 p.m. $50. 805-7722504. artcentermorrobay.org/index.php/ comingevents/childrens-classes/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

ARTVENTURES WITH ZOE: EXPLORING

PAINT (9 A.M. TO NOON) Kids (ages 6-12) will experiment with watercolor and acrylic paints, encouraging them to explore color mixing, texture, mark making, and more. July 26, 9 a.m.-noon $50. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay. org/index.php/products/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

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. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

DRAWING/PAINTING GROUP CCA holds still life drawing/painting sessions in the Green Room at Cambria Center for the Arts.

You will need to bring your own supplies, including an easel if you choose to paint.

Fourth Thursday of every month, 1-3:30 p.m. through Feb. 25 $10. 805-927-8190. cambriacenterforthearts.org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.

ESCAPING THE LABYRINTH A man falls for a Greek goddess who disappears. He spends his life searching to find her again. July 26 -28 By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay, bytheseaproductions.org.

FINE ART TEXTILES BY GAY MCNEAL

This artist appreciates the multifaceted role that textiles have played in the art and material cultures of many societies. Her creative high comes from the process of trying out the multitude of techniques, both old and new, to create art and quilts. July 30 -Aug. 29 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART WATERCOLORS BY VIRGINIA

MACK This artist’s inspiration comes from nature. Her passion is enjoying natural areas wherever she is and responding to each area through her paintings and drawings. She has made hundreds of journeys on the bay in her kayak and developed many pieces inspired by those journeys. July 30 -Aug. 29 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

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. Forever Stoked,

1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

JADE FAIRE Jade Studio presents Jade Faire, with Big Sur jade carvers and artists and live music. Aug. 3 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jade Studio, 2601 Main St., Cambria, 805-904-4547.

JEWELRY AND ART BY CAROL

ROULLARD Using a microscope, Carol shows us extraordinary, intricate dazzling crystals with unique natural structures and patterns. Come discover the micro-cosmos in this amazing jewelry show. Gallery at Marina Square is open daily. Through July 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

JEWELRY BY MARJORIE ZLOTOWITZ

“Ever since we humans figured out how to string stones and bones, we’ve adorned ourselves with things we find aesthetically pleasing.” This artist loves the colors, shapes, and textures of natural stones, various metals, and vintage beads. July 30 -Aug. 29 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

KID’S ART CAMP WITH KATHRYN Kids will explore drawing and painting, cartoon creations, and abstract art projects. Students will “dip their toes” into various art mediums, including graphite pencil, watercolor, and paint. This is a perfect opportunity for both beginner and experienced artists to exercise their creativity. July 30, 9:30 a.m.-noon and Aug. 1 9:30 a.m.-noon $80. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

MEDIA ARTS (VIDEO PRODUCTION)

WORKSHOP Don’t know what to do with all the videos you have recorded and saved? This new media arts workshop is

just what you need. Learn how to organize and edit those videos and turn them into something special. See website for full details. July 25 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $75. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

MEDIA ARTS/VIDEO PRODUCTION WORKSHOP FOR TEENS (GOING INTO GRADES 6-12) In this 3-day media arts workshop, students that are going into grades 6-12 will learn about the basics of video production, plus they will walk away having made at least one completed video. See website for complete details. July 25, 1-4 p.m. $120. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

OIL PAINTINGS BY PATRICIA NEWTON Newton’s style is representational, “utilizing a glazing technique to create a translucent effect that provides depth and emanates light from my paintings.”

Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY

SIRAGUSA This artist prefers photography of subjects that are subtle or commonplace, “revealing beauty that often goes unnoticed.” But his portfolio also exhibits grandeur, capturing memorable landscapes and birds whose wings regularly touch the sky. Work is printed on metal, canvas, and paper.

Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. ongoing 805-772-9955. Seven

Sisters14Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

THE REBOOT SPEAKEASY PRESENTS ON THE SPOT Lively local storytellers share true personal stories about finding quick fixes to awkward moments and the art of winging it. Each story inspires an intrepid improv team as they make up a mini-play “ON THE SPOT.” Dress warm, and come early for seating under the stars.

July 26, 7-9:15 p.m. Free. 805-772-9225. facebook.com/the.reboot4u. Top Dog Coffee Bar, 857 Main St., Morro Bay. SLOFUNNY COMEDY SHOW (MORRO BAY) Lineups are subject to change, but always include five headliners. July 27, 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Eagles Club, 2988 Main St., Morro Bay, 805-772-1384.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

ADULT DRAWING AND PAINTING WITH DIANE AT ARTSOCIAL 805 Please join ArtSocial 805 at the Creative Campus if you want to learn a new skill or dust off those pencils, paints, and brushes, and get back into art. Mondays, 10-11 a.m. through Aug. 26 $25-$100. 805-400-9107. artsocial805.com. ArtSocial 805 Creative Campus, 631 Spring St., Paso Robles. ARTSY ADORNMENTS Come and experience a wearable art exhibition. Add unique upcycled clothing and handcrafted jewelry to your wardrobe. Shop a selection of hand-embroidered garments, hand-painted jackets, and silk screened clothing. Complete your look with unique accessories. Through Aug. 30 Free. 805238-9800. studiosonthepark.org/events/ artsy-adornments/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

BEAD WEAVING DEMO Enter the world of bead weaving with associate artist Debra Jurey. Watch her skillfully use a loom to weave with beads and leather. She will demonstrate how to thread a loom and more. July 27, 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-2389800. studiosonthepark.org/events/beadweaving-demo/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

DEPRISE BRESCIA ART GALLERY: OPEN DAILY Features a large selection of encaustic art, sculpted paintings, art installations, acrylic palette knife

paintings, digital art, glass, jewelry, stones, fossils, and a butterfly sculpture garden. ongoing DepriseBrescia.com. Deprise Brescia Art Gallery, 829 10th St., Paso Robles, 310-621-7543.

FIRST SATURDAY: WINE, ART, AND MUSIC Studios on the Park celebrates First Saturdays, a fun tradition of art, wine, and live music-filled evenings at the start of each month. Enjoy meeting artists and seeing rotating exhibitions while enjoying live music and wine from one of the venue’s winery partners. First Saturday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Free; $10 for wine. 805-2389800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

HOLIDAY ORNAMENT WORKSHOP Get a jump start on your holiday gift making. Create three fused glass ornaments using pre-cut glass shapes and a variety of fun bits of colored and special glass. Pieces ready within a week. July 27, 10 a.m.-noon $65. 805-464-2633. glassheadstudio.com. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, Atascadero.

KIDS IMPROV SUMMER CAMPS Camps offered for grades 3-5 and 6-8. Hosted by Central Coast Comedy Theater. Through July 26 my805tix.com. Atascadero High School, One High School Hill, Atascadero, 805-462-4300.

KILN FORMED GLASS DEMO Join associate artist Stephanie Wilbanks to explore the art of kiln formed glass. In this technique, glass is cut cold on a table, then heated and slowly cooled in a kiln for several hours to a full day. July 27, 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org/ events/kiln-formed-glass-demo/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles. MONTHLY BIRTHDAY PLATE PAINTING AT ARTSOCIAL 805 Please join ArtSocial805 on the first Saturday of each month to paint a personalized “Birthday Plate,” for someone special or for yourself. The workshop is $35, which covers the plate, glaze, and firing. First Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. $35. 805-4009107. artsocial805.com. ArtSocial 805 Creative Campus, 631

COURTESY PHOTO BY LUIS ESCOBAR, REFLECTIONS

THE POCKET’S GRAND OPENING OF ITS “BACK POCKET” Showing the latest artwork created by printmakers Susan Lyon, Kathy Madonna, and Maryanne Nucci. Saturday, April 6, from 2 to 5 p.m., swing by for grand opening. Also open by appointment. First Saturday of every month, 2-5 p.m. Pocket Gallery on Pine, 8491/2 13th Street, Paso Robles, 805-440-7152.

PRINTMAKER TOUR OF THE POCKET

GALLERY ON PINE Open most Saturdays and by appointment. Gallery is showing three local printmakers: Susan Lyon, Kathy Madonna, and Maryanne Nucci. Saturdays, 2-5 p.m. 805-440-7152. Pocket Gallery on Pine, 8491/2 13th Street, Paso Robles.

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.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY SHOW Lineups are subject to change, but each show always includes five headliners. July 26 7 p.m. my805tix.com. JUSTIN Downtown Tasting Room, 811 12th St., Paso Robles, 805-238-6932.

STUDIOS ON THE PARK: CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS Check site for a variety of classes and workshops offered. ongoing studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles, 805-238-9800.

WESTERN ART EXHIBIT Featuring the meticulously handcrafted mosaic and painted cow and coyote skulls of guest artist Ernie Bentley, along with original paintings, unique jewelry, sculpture, ceramics, and so much more. Through Aug. 31 Free. 805-286-4430. Park Street Gallery, 1320 Park Street, Paso Robles, parkstreetgallery.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ACT SUMMER THEATRE CAMPS Visit

site for more details on this summer camp series. Through Aug. 5 slorep.org/education/ act-theatre-camps/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-786-2440.

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.

ADVENTURE ART CLASS WITH CHUCK CROTSER This 4-week class is aimed at children ages 8-14 to learn critical elements of drawing and painting while having a blast. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through July 30 $25 per class or $80 for all classes. 805-471-5967. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., 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.

APRIL BANKS: OUTLANDISH Los Angeles-based artist April Banks is a creative strategist working across visual art, social engagement, and exhibition design. Her practice sits intentionally between image, space, and experience. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/aprilbanks/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. ART AFTER DARK: CENTURY 21 HOMETOWN REALTY Century 21

SHADES OF PREY

Local artist Fred Ventura will lead a workshop on creating digital paintings at the Nipomo Library on Saturday, July 27, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Ventura will demonstrate how to use an iPad, an Apple Pencil, and the Procreate app for digital art projects during the presentation. Admission to the event is free. Visit venturaes.com for more info.

Hometown Realty is pleased to host amazing local artists, rotating their art work each month for the ‘Art After Dark’ calendar year. Reception of food and wine. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. through Nov. 1 Century 21 Hometown Realty, 1103 Toro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-235-4877.

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/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Fourth Thursday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., 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 805-8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/babyhandprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece. Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-6:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

FESTIVAL MOZAIC PRESENTS THE

FILM: EARL Earl Kim is an American composer who was born into abject poverty. As a child, music transformed his life. He learned the keyboard from a church organist and later studied with a Los Angeles composer and teacher free of charge for seven years. July 26, 2-4 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.

FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/events/ first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

FOUR-WEEK ADULT HANDBUILDING AND WHEEL SERIES Learning both handbuilding and wheel throwing techniques. Students will get a taste of all things clay in this four-week series. Clay/ firing included; beginner friendly. Please sign up online in advance. This series is

offered each month (check website for availability). First Saturday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $180. anamcre.com/ booking. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. FREE DOCENT TOURS Gain a deeper understanding of the artwork on view with SLOMA’s new docent tours. Every Saturday, join trained guides for interactive and engaging tours of SLOMA’s current exhibitions. Saturdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/visit/tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

IMPROV COMEDY SHOWS AT THE HUB

The show contents will be rotated among the group’s ensemble, house, and musical improv team casts, as well as stand-up and student shows. Fourth Friday of every month, 6 p.m. my805tix.com/. The Hub, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. IT TAKES TWO: BRAND NEW SONGS ABOUT SAME OLD LOVE A funny and touching original musical revue about romantic relationships. Featuring 19 original songs by Michael Kaplan and Mark Pietri, the creators of “Danny Come Home” and “We’re Canceling Cable.” Aug. 2 7-8:30 p.m., Aug. 3, 7-8:30 p.m. and Aug. 4 3-4:30 p.m. $25. 805-440-2695. Unitarian Universalist, 2201 Lawton Ave., 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.

LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, ARTS continued page 16

—C.W.

Leona Evans, Minister

SATURDAY,

SATURDAY,

SLOpickers, A 4-Piece Bluegrass String Band

SATURDAY, AUGUST 17 Congregation House, SLO

SATURDAY,

Hot Dates

1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. 805-441-8257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.

MAMA TEMPLE PRESENTS: ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES WRITING WORKSHOP

WITH LESLIE ST. JOHN MUSE is an experience, drawing from movement and writing, that takes us out of the analytical mind and into the creative, intuitive imagination. MUSE is a journey; a place to write your stories, express your truths, listen as an art form, and empower you. July 27 9-10:45 a.m. $17.91 (includes fees). 620-8994060. thebunkerslo.com/events. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

FRI-SUN,

SUNDAY, AUGUST 18

Aurora Adventures at Vibe Retreats,

THE MAMA TEMPLE Includes contributions of art, stories, and experience that challenge the narrative of motherhood. This collaboration of art and story has a message of healing and reconciliation for ourselves and others. Motherhood events/workshops are held during July. Through July 31 themamatemple.org/work/ julyevents. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

MARIA MOLTENI: CELESTIAL

ANTIPHONY Celestial Antiphony creates a cycle of beats on the fingers and illustrates a childhood shortcut for praying the Rosary when beads have gone missing. The artist has returned to the modular, rhythmic orb-based practice of prayer, which transcends boundaries of faith and constructs of time. Aug. 2- Nov. 11 Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ maria-molteni/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad 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.

PARENT-CHILD POTTERY CLASS Make lasting memories with clay together as a family. For ages 6 and over. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon $70. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

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.

POTTERY: BEGINNING WHEEL CLASS

This series is a great intro to the pottery wheel. Students learn to throw various shapes, surface decorate, and glaze. Clay and firing included with admission. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $180. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SCULPTURE CLASS WITH ROD PEREZ

This weekly sculpture drop-in class gives an opportunity for potters to take on new projects and learn new techniques relating to sculptural work. Additionally, every first Friday of the month, a new project will be taught by Rod Perez for beginners. Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., 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, 805-548-2337, libertinebrewing.com.

SLOCA SUMMER CAMP: MUSICAL

THEATER

Two weeks of singing, dancing, acting, and more fun for grades 1-8. This 2-week camp introduces students to a variety of elements and principles used in the process of theater production and appreciation of theater arts. Showcase on the final day of camp. Mondays-Fridays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through Aug. 2 $750. 805-548-8700. sloclassical.org/summercamp/. SLO Classical Academy, 165 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

A TOWN ART HOP CALL TO ARTIST The first A Town Art Hop is happening Sept. 6. Submission deadline is July 25. Email: atownarthop@gmail.com (up to five images).

July 25 Free. instagram.com/atownarthop/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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, 1:303:30 p.m. $35. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo. com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

WHOSE WATERS? This Gray Wing exhibition will build upon the photojournalistic work of Southern California artist Gabriella Angotti-Jones whose I Just Wanna Surf book highlights Black female and non-binary surfers and other unseen or outright ignored communities that ride the waves off the Golden State. Through Oct. 20, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ surf-show/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

YOUTH POTTERY CLASS Teens love this class. Learn handbuilding techniques and throwing on the potter’s wheel. Held every Friday after school. Fridays, 3:30-5

Trilogy is now displaying its 2024 third quarter exhibit of original works of art from 17 Trilogy artist residents. The art displayed includes a wide rage of techniques and styles as well as stunning photography. July 27 1-3 p.m. Free. Gallery at Monarch Dunes, 1640 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo, 805-343-7500.

GUNSMOKIN’ Through Sept. 7 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BREATHE AND STRETCH: BAYSIDE MARTIAL ARTS This class for ages 18 and over is a hybrid of yoga, active isolated, resistance stretching, and more. Breath work is incorporated throughout. You must be able to get down onto the floor and back up again. Please bring a mat and some water to stay hydrated. Sundays, 9-10 a.m. $15 session. 415-516-5214. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

UNIFY TO BEAUTIFY

The Lompoc Valley Botanic and Horticultural Society hosts its Garden Care Day program at Burton Mesa Chaparral Garden in Lompoc on Saturday, Aug. 3, from 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteers are asked to bring pruners and other tools to help the group beautify the garden. Comfy clothes, closed-toe shoes, hats, and sunscreen are recommended. Visit lvbhs.org for more details.

p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

CREATING DIGITAL ART This presentation will dive into the basics of creating digital art using the powerful combination of an iPad, an Apple Pencil, and the Procreate app. Suitable for all ages and anyone interested in digital art techniques. July 27, 1-2:30 p.m. Free. 805709-2281. venturaes.com/nipomo. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.

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.

FIND WALDO LOCAL 2024 Where’s Waldo? In Arroyo Grande, of course. Waldo is hiding at 20 local businesses in July. Grab your stamp card from Monarch Books on July 1 and start your search. Collect 20 or more stamps and you could win a prize in the grand-prize drawing. Through July 28 Free. 805-668-6300. monarchbooks805.com. Monarch Books, 201 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande.

GALLERY AT MONARCH DUNES 2024

THIRD QUARTER ART EXHIBIT The Gallery at Monarch Dunes in Nipomo at

BREATHE AND STRETCH One must be able to get down onto the floor and back up again, with ease, in order to participate in this 55-minute session. It’s specifically designed to enhance mobility and strength. Please bring a mat and some water. Mondays, 9-10 a.m. $10 per session. 415-516-5214. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

CENTRAL COAST SLIM DOWN Take control of food without suffering. Learn a step-by-step process to take control of overeating, cravings, and feel peace with food. Build the habits, mindset, and your unique path with results that stick. Hosted byTami Cruz (Certified Health/Life Coach) and Dana Charvet (Coach/Fitness Trainer). ongoing Call for pricing info. 805-235-7978. gratefulbodyhealthcoaching.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

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.

CENTRAL COAST WOMEN RISING TRANSFORMATIONAL CIRCLE Have you ever wondered what a Women’s Transformational Circle is?

Presents:

AUGUST 10 Drew Davis Fine Art, SLO

Paso Robles Rotary Club Winemakers’ Cookoff

AUGUST 10 Paso Robles Event Center

The Only Ocean, Niantic, Zampkamp, and Shadow Construct 47

AUGUST 10 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

Resonance Presents: Life and Breath

& SUN, AUGUST 10 & 11 Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa & Trinity Lutheran Church, Paso Robles

The SLO Ventura Invitational

& SUN, AUGUST 10 & 11 Morro Bay Golf Course

Maiden to Crone Sister Circle SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 From the Roots Up Healing, Los Osos

Frequent Weaver Presents: The Mezzacappa Quartet

AUGUST 11 The Bunker SLO

Tribute to The Rolling Stones: Some Girls SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 Blast & Brew, Atascadero

Tiny Porch Concerts: The Riverside and The Salty Suites SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 Peter Strauss Ranch, Agoura Hills

Morro Bay High School Class of 2004 Reunion

AUGUST 16-18 The Siren, Morro Bay

Chismosas y Mimosas Drag Brunch

AUGUST 17

A Mi Manera Mexican Cuisine, Santa Maria

Tribute to Kiss and Aerosmith Dressed to Kill and Aero Rocks

SATURDAY, AUGUST 17 Blast 825 Brewery, Orcutt

The Surface Walkers: A Science Fiction Rock Musical

AUGUST 17 Bang The Drum Brewery, SLO

Monte Mills Lucky Horseshoe Band: Cheers to Club Car Bar’s 1 Year Anniversary

AUGUST 17 Club Car Bar, Templeton Mercantile

Shakti Goddess Retreat

Arroyo Grande

—C.W.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOMPOC VALLEY BOTANIC AND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

Calling in the Crone with Alison Lorne MSN, CNM RN

SATURDAY, JULY 27

The Bunker SLO

CCCT’s 8th Anniversary Party

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1

Bang The Drum Brewery, SLO

Pops ON!

Orchestra Novo

SUNDAY, AUGUST 4

Alex Madonna Expo Center, SLO

SLOFunny Comedy Show, Hosted by James Uloth

SATURDAY, JULY 27 Morro Bay Eagles Club

Brass Mash First Friday

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2 Liquid Gravity Brewing Company, SLO

Dirty Cello “The Flesh and the Devil” Screening, Performing Soundtrack

Coastal Wine & Paint Party

SATURDAYS, JULY 27, AUG 3, 10, 17

Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, Cambria

Boys of Summer: Eagles Tribute

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8 Stolo Vineyards, Cambria Improv Comedy Show

FRIDAY, AUGUST 9

Public Market

Decayer, Bears, Catacombs, & More!

SUNDAY, JULY 28

Club Car Bar, Templeton Mercantile

The Wrecking Bar 10 Year Anniversary Bash

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3 The Wrecking Bar, Lemoore

Distillery Trail Weekend Kick-off Party

FRIDAY, AUGUST 9

KROBAR Craft Distillery, SLO

God’s Garden Vacation Bible Camp

MON-FRI, JULY 28-AUG 2

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, SLO

Comedy Night with Claude Stewart

Trivia Wednesday Night with Brain Stew Trivia

WEDNESDAY, JULY 31

Bang The Drum Brewery, SLO

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3 Paso Robles Elks #2364 Hambly Lavender Farm Guided Experience SAT & SUN, AUG 3-SEPT 1

Lavender Farm, San Miguel

Colonel Angus: An AC/DC Tribute

FRIDAY, AUGUST 9 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc 2024 Lompoc Police Car Show

& SAT, AUGUST 9 & 10 Lompoc Chamber of Commerce

The Ultimate Tesla, EV, and SpaceX Experience

Get ready to immerse yourself in the future of transportation and space exploration. Join us at X Takeover where the worlds of Tesla, EVs, and SpaceX collide!

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Franz von Holzhausen Chief Designer, Tesla

Hot Dates

Join the Central Coast Women Rising Transformational Circle. Theme: Cultivating Self-Compassion. With breathwork, essential oils, movement, meditation, and group share. Designed for personal growth and healing. Host: Certified Health, Life, Breath Coach. July 27 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Donation. 805-235-7978. gratefulbodyhealthcoaching.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, 805-7722840, sttimothymorrobay.org/index.html.

CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom). For information, call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654.

ENJOY AXE THROWING Enjoy the art of axe throwing in a safe and fun environment. Kids ages 10 and older are welcome with an adult. No personal axes please. Fridays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. $20. 805-528-4880. baysidemartialarts.com. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

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. innerworkings.com. Central Coast Body Therapy Center, 2005 9th St., Los Osos.

MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS

offers great anti-aging benefits, providing a comprehensive system for improving physical, mental and emotional health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin Wallace. Call first. Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805-709-2227. Hardie Park, Ash Ave. and B St., Cayucos.

TAI CHI AND QI GONG: ZEN IN MOTION

Small group classes with 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the Year. Call for time and days. Learn the Shaolin Water Style and 5 Animals Qi Gong. Beginners welcomed. Mondays, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call for price details. 805-7017397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

TAI CHI BASICS Visit site for more details on this ongoing, weekly Tai Chi program. Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $10-$12. 805-7727486. fitnessworksmb.com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

WEEKLY QIGONG PRACTICE AT

FITNESSWORKS MORRO BAY Calm your mind and nourish your joints with a weekly Qigong practice led by Mike Raynor of Tai Chi Rejuvenation. The practice is rooted in Qigong fundamentals, and standing/moving meditations. Forms include: Eight Brocades, Five Elements, Shibashi 18, and Tai chi 24. Saturdays, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Members free; non-members $8-$10. 805-772-7466. fitnessworksmb.com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

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. 805-701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

CSL This weekly class focuses on relaxing and promoting sleep. Experience inner peace and physical vitality in a welcoming community setting. See website for details and to sign up. Thursdays, 7-8 p.m. $20. 805-391-4465. awakeningways.org/whatshappening/. Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living, 9350 El Camino Real, No. 101, Atascadero.

TOPS SUPPORT GROUP: WEIGHT LOSS AND MAINTENANCE A self-help support group focusing on weight loss and maintenance. Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. 805242-2421. tops.org. Santa Margarita Senior Center, 2210 H St., Santa Margarita. 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. YANG STYLE TAI CHI The course’s instructor won many Tai Chi and other internal martial arts tournaments. Both experienced martial artists and new learners are welcome to the class. Mondays, Wednesdays, 5-6 p.m. $62. 805470-3360. Colony Park Community Center, 5599 Traffic Way, Atascadero.

Jared Isaacman American Entrepreneur, Pilot, Philanthropist, Commercial Astronaut

• Inspirational Keynotes

• Influencer Meet & Greet

• Cybertruck Showcase

• Scenic Central Coast Ride & Drive

• Tesla Synchronized Light Show

• Engaging Panel Discussions

• E-Mobility Demo Rides

• Customized Tesla Showcase

• Unique Collection of Exhibitors & Merchandise

• Networking Opportunities

• Accessories Installations

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/.

MORRO BAY MIXED MARTIAL ARTS

Disciplines include advanced athletic performance fitness training, Thai kickboxing, and more. Beginners to advanced students welcome. Day and evening classes offered. Mondays-Saturdays, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Call for more info. 805-701-7397. charvetmartialarts. com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, 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 YOGA AND RITUALS FOR VITALITY Hosted by Aurora Meditations and Rituals. July 26, 9-10:15 a.m. my805tix. com/. Beach Access Parking Lot, 102 Atascadero Road, Morro Bay.

SOCRATES: DISCUSSION GROUP Group members present interesting and thought provoking topics of all sorts. Topics are selected in advance and moderated by volunteers. Vaccinations are necessary. Enter through wooden gate to garden area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. 805-528-7111. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi gong

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.

CALIFORNIA MID-STATE FAIR 2024 Paso

Robles’ beloved annual event nicknamed “the biggest little fair anywhere.” Visit site for full lineup of the fair’s offerings, including live concerts, carnival attractions, and more. Through July 28 midstatefair.com. Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

KID’S SUMMER CAMPS 2024 Make it the best summer yet with Templeton Tennis Ranch’s summer camps. Kids ages 5-12 will enjoy playing tennis, pickleball, bocce, and more. Eight weeks to choose from. Camps begin June 10 and start at $90. Sibling discounts available. Learn more online. July 29 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $90-$240. 805-434-9605. ttrtennis.com/tennis/ kids-camps/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.

MONDAY MORNING YA’DA YOGA WITH GINA JENKINS AT AWAKENING WAYS

CSL Sessions are tailored to address both physical and emotional challenges of participants. Experience inner peace and physical vitality in a welcoming community setting. See the website for details. Mondays, 9-10 a.m. $20. 805391-4465. awakeningways.org/whatshappening/. Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living, 9350 El Camino Real, No. 101, Atascadero.

NAR-ANON: FRIDAY MEETINGS A meeting for those who know or have known a feeling of desperation concerning the addiction of a loved one. Fridays, 12-1 p.m. Free. 805441-2164. North County Connection, 8600 Atascadero Ave., Atascadero.

TAI CHI This course’s instructor has won many Tai Chi and other internal martial arts tournaments. Both experienced martial artists and new learners are welcome to the class. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $65. 805-237-3988. Centennial Park, 600 Nickerson Dr., Paso Robles.

THURSDAY EVENING YA’DA YOGA WITH GINA JENKINS AT AWAKENING WAYS

SAN LUIS OBISPO AGING GRACEFULLY WITH PREVENTATIVE CARE “We can’t stop getting older, but we can shift our thinking about it.” Moving from “I can’t do anything about it” to “I have some control over how my mind and body ages.” Series sponsored by Unity Five Cities. Details from chris@peacefulpoint.com. Over Zoom. Wednesdays, 6-7:30 p.m. through Nov. 20 Love offering. (805) 489-7359. unity5cities. org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. 559-905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. BIRDS AND BOTANY MONTHLY WALK AT SLO BOTANICAL GARDEN The Garden is excited to present a monthly bird walk series on the fourth Thursday of every month which explores the intersection of birds and botany. Fourth Thursday of every month, 8-11 a.m. $10 for Garden Members; $40 for general public. 805-541-1400. slobg. org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., 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 CONJURERS (SLO COUNTY MAGIC CLUB) Monthly meeting of magicians of all levels. Please call or email for more info. Meet like-minded folks with an interest in magic, from close-up to stage performances. Last Wednesday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. 805-440-0116. IHOP, 212 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo. CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:3011:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo. CITY FARM SLO’S YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM Check site for more info on programming and summer camps. ongoing cityfarmslo.org. San Luis Obispo, Citywide, SLO. COMPLIMENTARY SHOWERS WITH SHOWER THE PEOPLE After a short hiatus, the San Luis Obispo Library will once again be partnering with local non-profit organization, Shower the People. The shower trailer will be located between the library and parking structure. Toiletries provided.

JULY 27 – 28, 2024 | THE FIELDS AT THE MADONNA INN, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA

Become a legendary New Times Music Award (NTMA) recipient!

Enter to win amazing prizes including a custom NTMA Newtie, your name/band name on all NTMA merch, and a performing spot at the New Times Music Awards and Showcase at SLO Brew Rock on Friday, November 8, 2024.

GENERAL RULES

Entries must be received between Thursday, July 18, 2024 and Monday, August 5, 2024 by 5 p.m. , to be considered for the 2024 New Times Music Awards (NTMA).

• $20 entry fee for each song, songwriter, and album entry.

Enter 3 songs and get the 4th FREE, or enter 5 songs and get the 6th FREE.

Participants may enter a maximum of 13 songs (10 genre category, 3 songwriting category) and 1 album.

ONLINE ENTRIES ARE PREFERRED FOR SONGS Fill out the entry form, upload songs, and pay for your entries with a credit card at NewTimesSLO.com. Best Album entries must be entered in person or by mail.

If you wish to pay with cash or check, you may drop off your entries at either the New Times or Sun offices. Bring your music entries on a CD or USB drive along with your completed entry form. Checks should be made payable to “New Times.”

All entrants must reside primarily in San Luis Obispo County or Northern Santa Barbara County.

All entrants must be able to play at the showcase event at SLO Brew Rock in San Luis Obispo on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024.

All entrants under 18 years of age must select the Youth category and must have a parent or guardian sign the entry form.

By entering the contest, all entrants give permission to New Times Media Group to reproduce submissions on compact disc and on the web. All entries remain the property of performers.

New Times Music Awards is not responsible for lost, damaged, incomplete, or late entries.

• The top 3 songs in each category need to provide high-quality versions of their songs (16 Bit, 44.1 Sample Rate).

Songs may have multiple co-writers, but please designate one contact name only on entry form.

Winners will be chosen by a select panel of judges.

Songs will be judged on overall performance.

Live performers will share the ‘Back Line.’

Check NewTimesSLO.com or contact NTMA@NewTimesSLO.com for more information.

The New Times Music Awards Showcase and Competition is an all-ages show. Performers agree to eliminate explicit lyrics during their performance.

GENRE CATEGORIES

The Youth category is for musicians entering music who are under the age of 18 as of July 18, 2024.

The Open genre includes reggae, world beat, jazz, classical, new age, electronic, etc. Each song submission must have a genre selected. If nothing is selected, the song will go into the Open genre.

If judges determine a song to be a better fit with a different genre category than what was originally submitted, they reserve the right to recategorize it.

SONGWRITER CATEGORY

You may enter up to 3 songs in the Songwriting genre, which is being judged separately. Upload a .txt or .doc file or include a printout of lyrics with your entry.

ALBUM CATEGORY

Albums must have been released between November 4, 2023 and July 18, 2024 to be eligible. Please deliver a hard copy to either the New Times or Sun office along with a completed entry form by 5 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024 for consideration. The entire presentation will be judged, including quality of songs, sound, and packaging.

Only 1 album per entrant total.

ARTIST NAMe

NAME OF PERFORMING ARTIST(S) EXACTLY AS IT SHOULD APPEAR ON CD (BAND NAME, STAGE NAME, ETC.)

SONG ENTRY BY GENRE

ENTER UP TO 10 SONGS • FILL OUT THE INFO BELOW FOR EACH SONG ENTERED

SONG TITLE

PLEASE CHECK ONE BOX PER SONG TITLE TO INDICATE SONG GENRE:  Rock/Alternative  County/Americana/Folk  R&B/Blues  Hip-Hop/Rap  Open  Youth

Enter online or use additional entry forms if entering more than one song

SONGWRITER ENTRY

ENTER UP TO 3 SONGS • FILL OUT THE INFO BELOW FOR EACH SONG ENTERED

Upload a .txt or .doc file or include a printout of lyrics with your entry

SONG TITLE

Enter online or use additional entry forms if entering more than one song

BEST ALBUM ENTRY

ALBUM TITLE

Enter Best Album by mail or drop off at New Times or Sun office

ONLY 1 ALBUM MAY BE ENTERED

LOCAL LEGEND AWARD NOMINEE

The Local Legend Award recognizes an individual or group who has contributed to help enrich, support, and further music’s reach in our community; someone whose ideas, inspiration, and dedication to this art scene have helped nurture and grow the music scene—whether it’s bringing new sounds to the area or giving people the tools they need to create their own. We would love your input! Please use this space to nominate an individual, group, or organization you feel should be considered for this award:

I certify that I am the writer or co-writer of the song(s) or lyrics submitted. I also certify that I have read, understood, and accept the rules and regulations of the New Times Music Awards. If entrant is under 18 years old, the signature of a parent or guardian is required.

Name:

Signature:

Email:

Phone:

Date:

TOTAL NUMBER OF ENTRIES (14 MAX POSSIBLE) _____________ x $20 = $ PAYMENT ENCLOSED

Summer 2024 Home Game Schedule

Hot Dates

Sundays, 1-3 p.m. Free. San Luis Obispo Library, 995 Palm St., San Luis Obispo.

DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. 646-2805800. margotschaal.com/qigong. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

GALAXY GYMNASTICS CAMP Features gymnastics, themed crafts and games, and educational trivia. Defy gravity on the trampolines, bars, beams, foam pits, and more. Ages 4-13; no experience necessary. Through July 26, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $40-$360 depending on which options you choose. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/camps. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

GOD’S GARDEN VACATION BIBLE CAMP

Enjoy fun faith-building activities including games, crafts, songs, stories, cooking, dancing, and outdoor adventures. For ages 5 to 11. July 29 -Aug. 2 my805tix.com/. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo.

GUIDED ENERGETIC MEDITATION

Are you energetically sensitive? This reoccurring weekly class will be a guided Introduction to Energetic Meditation Techniques that will assist you to: clear your energy field, improve energy flow and energy boundaries, quiet and focus your mind, and be clearer about “Who You Really Are.” Mondays, 6:30-8 p.m. through Nov. 30 $22. 503-929-6416. elohiacupuncture.com/classes/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT

GROUP A safe place to share life experiences with those who have depression or have had and recovered from the devastating effects of depression. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free. 805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

THE MAMA TEMPLE PRESENTS: CALLING IN THE CRONE WITH ALLISON LORNE A sharing circle and trance drum journey to connect and elevate the honored archetype of the Crone. With Allison Lorne July 27 5:30-7 p.m. $15. thebunkerslo.com/events. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

THE MAMA TEMPLE PRESENTS:

MYSTICAL MAMMAS The wisdom of three Mystical Mammas are here to help guide and inspire you. This unique opportunity for personal exploration is with experienced and intuitive guides. July 28 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $40 per reading. thebunkerslo.com/events. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon

Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.

NAMI FAMILY-TO-FAMILY CLASS

This is a free, eight-session education program for family, friends and significant others of children and adults with mental health conditions. Learn about anxiety, depressive disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. Topics covered include communication, problem solving, treatment, and recovery. Registration by email or calling required. Mondays, 6-8:30 p.m. through Aug. 5 Free. 805-481-4847. namislo.org. Unitarian Universalist, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo.

NATURE SUNDAY: TAKING A LIKIN’ TO THE LICHENS OF SLO COUNTY

This Nature Sunday, meet the incredible lichen, a fascinating symbiotic relationship

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID. SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo. STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace

LODGE LIBATIONS

Cambria Pines Lodge will highlight Stolo Vineyards at its upcoming Winemaker’s Dinner at the Lodge event on Sunday, July 28, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Attendees of the event can look forward to a five-course meal, with a wine from Stolo Vineyards paired with each course. Admission is $130 per person. Visit cambriapineslodge.com to find out more about the dinner.

between algae and fungi. Bring your binoculars, hand lenses, water, sunhat, and sunscreen for a walk. Please register in advance via slobg.org. For more information, email jen@slobg.org. July 28

1-3 p.m. Free. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

MAMAS AND BABIES SLOW FLOW AND SOMARICS Communing with the subtle realms of being and engaging in gentle, intuitive movement to support fertility and perinatal wellbeing. July 27 1:30-3 p.m. Sliding scale $15-$25. 620-899-4060. thebunkerslo.com/events. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE Stretch into yourself under the beautiful oaks and fresh air of this idyllic country setting. Suitable for all levels, these classes emphasize the gentler side of yoga and adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for five-class card with no expiration. 805-440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Tiber Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, San Luis Obispo. METAPHYSICAL/SPIRITUALITY BOOK

CLUB A weekly book discussion, on a wide variety of titles from the general subject of metaphysics, spirituality, and comparative religion. By invitation. For more information, contact David Higgins, email: davidhiggins67@gmail. com. Location revealed to those invited. Wednesdays Free. rationalmetaphysics. com. Private location, TBA, Location not to be published.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted

PUPPY SOCIAL HOUR Puppies (10 weeks to 5 months old) will learn appropriate play style with other pups, acceptable manners with people, tolerance for gentle restraints, confidence with the approach of friendly strangers, and more. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. and Saturdays, 9 a.m. $25. 805-543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/training/. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

QI GONG FOR MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT

Learn and practice qi gong, a Chinese system for physical, mental and spiritual development. This class is conducted outdoors in a beautiful setting, which is the best place to do qi gong, as its inspiration is drawn from nature. Certified instructor: Devin Wallace. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805-709-2227. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

REWILD WITH CHRISTIANA Visit site for tickets and more info. July 29, 5 p.m. my805tix.com/. Integrated Movement, 3592 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO BLUES BASEBALL 33 summer home games held. Go to bluesbaseball.com for full schedule. Tickets available from My805Tix. Through July 27 $10 adults; 12 and under free. 805-512-9996. my805tix.com.

SLO Blues Summer Collegiate Baseball, Sinsheimer Stadium at 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo.

for this outdoor class which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email before attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805709-2227. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

SUMMER SCIENCE AND ART IN THE GARDEN: STUDENTS AGES 10 TO 14

During the week of July 22 through 26, students will experience different daily explorations into the natural world. This class will be taught by a team of knowledgeable educators and SLO Botanical Garden docents. Please email jen@slobg.org for more information or call. July 25 10 a.m.-noon and July 26, 10 a.m.noon $100. 805-541-1400. slobg.org/event/ summer-science-for-students-10-to-14/. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo. SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. SUPER HERO GYMNASTICS CAMP Features gymnastics, themed crafts and games, and educational trivia. Enjoy trampolines, bars, beams, foam pits, and more. Ages 4-13; no experience necessary. July 29 -Aug. 2 , 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $40-$360 depending on which options you choose. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/camps. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 805-540-

—C.W.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAMBRIA PINES LODGE

6576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN

CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Fourth Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. ongoing Starts at $70. 805-835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.

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. 510-3623739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

CENTRAL COAST AQUARIUM SUMMER

CAMPS The Central Coast Aquarium is excited to announce that summer camp registrations are now open. Each week-long camp session will include: interactive lessons and activities, outdoor field trips, animal encounters, and more. Mondays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through Aug. 5 centralcoastaquarium.org/campsprograms/seasonal-camps/summercamps/. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach, 805-595-7280.

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing 805-6190989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

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.

QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. 805-440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.

STRIDE WITH THE TIDE The City of Pismo Beach presents Stride with the Tide 5K Run. No pre-registration required, and walkers are welcomed. Rain or shine. July 27, 8:30 a.m. $35 with shirt; $20 for race only. pismobeach. org/73/Recreation. Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, Pismo Beach.

SUMMER BARKTACULAR BARK IN THE PARK Hosted by the City of Arroyo Grande. Bring your leashed best friend for a day of fun in the sun. Dog item vendors, food trucks, dog contests, adoptions, and more. July 27 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $0-$15. 805-4735472. arroyogrande.org/catalog. Elm St. Park, 380 S Elm St., Arroyo Grande.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Looking for a fun and educational opportunity this summer? Join the aquarium’s Volunteer Team. No marine science experience is necessary. There are lots of ways to get involved. Check out website for more details. Tuesdays. through Sept. 30 centralcoastaquarium.org. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach, 805-595-7280.

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS

Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. 805-481-6399.

5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

FOOD & DRINK

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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.

WINEMAKER’S DINNER AT THE LODGE:

STOLO VINEYARDS Featuring wines from Stolo Vineyards, based in Cambria. Includes a five-course meal, wine pairing with each course, and a pairing overview by a Stolo expert. July 28 5:30-8 p.m. $130 per person, plus tax. 805-927-4200. cambriapineslodge.com/winemakersdinner-series. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

CLUB CAR BAR TRIVIA WITH DR. RICKY

Teams of 1 to 6 people welcome. Visit site for more info. Wednesdays, 7-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main Street, Templeton, 805-400-4542.

CLUB SUPSUP Check out the Central Coast’s newest pop-up dinner experience the last Wednesday of every month. Last Wednesday of every month, 6-9 p.m. $125. 310-692-0046. clubsupsup.com/. Kindred Oak Farm, 1250 Paint Horse Plaza, Paso Robles.

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. 805-4606042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

TASTE OF TIN CITY WALKING TOUR

Enjoy the first ever walking tour of Tin City – an industrial area just outside of downtown Paso Robles – that is home to a community of innovative and passionate producers of high-quality wines, spirits, beer, and more. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $125. 805-400-3141. toasttours.com/tour/ tin-city-walking-tour/. Toast Tours, 1722 Stillwater Ct, Paso Robles.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.

EDIBLE MAGAZINE SUMMER HOUSE A celebration of all things culinary, as Edible Magazine bring the pages of the magazine to life. This curated, multi-day food festival is an opportunity to try one-time-only food collaborations, chefs tables, cooking classes, farm shares, and more. Benefiting Family Care Network. July 28 July 29 July 30 and July 31 ediblesanluisobispo.com/ summerhouse/. La Lomita Ranch, 1985 La Lomita Way, San Luis Obispo, 805-927-1028.

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA NIGHT Live multi-media trivia every Wednesday. Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to six players. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. headgamestrivia.com. Antigua Brewing, 1009 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-242-1167. SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World

Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

SUMMER BARBECUE BLOCK PARTY Menu features McPrice Myers wines, Colony Mash brews, and more. With cotton candy and face painting for the kids. July 27, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 805-439-4298. sloprovisions.com/events. SLO Provisions, 1255 Monterey St., 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, 805 242-8372.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT PUB TRIVIA Bring your thinking cap as questions vary from pop culture, geography, to sports. There is a little for everyone. Prizes for the winning teams. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. 805-439-2529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

WEDNESDAY PUB TRIVIA Bring your thinking caps as questions vary from pop culture, geography, to sports. There is a little for everyone. Prizes for the winning teams. Trivia provided by Geeks Who Drink. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. 805439-2529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

WINEMAKER HAPPY HOUR WITH MCPRICE MYERS An exclusive tasting experience featuring McPrice Myers Wines. Meet Associate Winemaker and Brand Partner Adrian Perez as he pours you through a flight of five wines alongside a pulled pork slider from Old SLO BBQ. July 31 5-8 p.m. $25. 805-329-3855. exploretock.com. Region Wine Bar, 979 Morro Street, San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY DUMPLING MAKING CLASS WITH SICHUAN KITCHEN SLO Join Chef Garrett of Sichuan Kitchen SLO for his famous dumpling making class. He will be sharing his passion for Sichuan cuisine as you learn the art of making dumplings. Mix, season, and wrap your way to a delicious feast. Vegan option included. For ages 21 and over. July 25 6-8 p.m. $50. 805-4817339. bgcslo.org/events. Boys and Girls Clubs of South San Luis Obispo County Clubhouse, 1830 19th St., Oceano.

Central Coast Shakespeare Festival July 19 - August 11

Pack a picnic and bring your own chair Wine for sale by the glass or bottle

DUNES CENTER’S 2024 GALA Attendees are encouraged to wear 1920s attire at this event, which includes live jazz and swing music, poker tables, a no-host bar, dinner catered by Cool Hand Luke’s of Santa Maria, and more. July 27 6 p.m. dunescenter.org. Edwards Barn, 1095 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo, 805-929-1673.

HOUSE OF PRAYER’S Q-TEAM MONTHLY

BARBECUE Come enjoy finger lickin’ barbecue with all the fixings. First Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 2 805-732-5111. House of Prayer Church, 640 S. Frontage Road, Nipomo.

TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. 805-295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

MUSIC

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BEACHSIDE LIVE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Enjoy free live music by the beach in Cayucos. Showtimes are Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. Also featuring live music on holiday weekends, and on select Fridays and Saturdays in the summer. Check out @schoonerscayucos on Instagram for band updates. Sundays, 1-8 p.m. Free. 805-995-3883. schoonerscayucos.com/live. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos.

MORRO BAY WHITE CAPS COMMUNITY

BAND CONCERT Under the direction of conductor Brenda Hascall, the Morro Bay

August 2-4, 2024 Friday & Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 10am-4pm NIPOMO

• Treasure Chest (Winners announced on Sunday at 3pm)

White Caps Community Band will perform a variety of pops, jazz, and classical music. July 27 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; donations accepted. morrobaywhitecaps.com/. Embarcadero Morro Bay, 1200 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.

OPEN MIC NIGHT Come join us each Wednesday for 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. schoonerscayucos. com. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos. UP IN THE AIR AT CASTORO CELLARS Up in the Air will play it’s unique and eclectic blend of upbeat originals along with some familiar favorites at Castoro Cellars. July 28 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-238-0725. Castoro Cellars, 1315 N. Bethel Rd., Templeton, castorocellars.com.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

DECAYER Visit site for tickets and more info. July 28, 7 p.m. my805tix.com/. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main Street, Templeton, 805-400-4542.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that is easy to listen to but also surprises. July 26, 6-8 p.m. Free. Cava Robles Resort, 3800 Golden Hill Rd., Paso Robles, 805-242-4700.

KARAOKE NIGHT Food and drink available for purchase. Last Saturday of every month, 8 p.m. Free admission. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main Street, Templeton, 805-400-4542. Last Saturday of every month, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Templeton Mercantile Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.

LIVE MUSIC AT BIANCHI WINERY IN PASO ROBLES WITH FOREVER GREEN Forever Green will pair their unique blend of soft rock folk pop with plenty of original songs and familiar cover tunes, and the wonderful wines at Bianchi Winery in Paso Robles. July 27, 2-5 p.m. Free. Bianchi Winery and Tasting Room, 3380 Branch Road, Paso Robles, 805-226-9922, bianchiwine.com.

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.

TUESDAYS IN THE PARK: FREE WEEKLY CONCERTS BY THE ATASCADERO COMMUNITY BAND Atascadero Community Band has been playing free weekly concerts in the bandstand for almost 40 years. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and picnics and enjoy these free events. Tuesdays, 7-8 p.m. through Aug. 20 Free. atascaderoband.org. Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero.

UP IN THE AIR AT PASO MARKETWALK Up in the Air will play it unique blend of upbeat original music along with some familiar favorites at the Paso Market Walk. July 26 5-8 p.m. Free. 805-720-1255. Paso Market Walk, 1803 Spring St, Paso Robles. SAN LUIS OBISPO 16TH ANNUAL NEW TIMES AWARDS: ENTRY PERIOD The contest entries are open through Aug. 5. Visit site for entry rules and more info on the New Times Media Group’s annual competition for local musicians. Through Aug. 5 newtimesslo. com/sanluisobispo/NTMARules/Page. New Times, 1010 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8208.

ALL AGES OPEN MIC NIGHT Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, San Luis Obispo.

BRASS MASH: FIRST FRIDAY First Fridays are magical nights filled with the vibrant energy of our all-horn band. Join the festivities at Liquid Gravity and immerse yourself in the unique fusion of your favorite rock and pop songs. First Friday of every month, 6-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, San Luis Obispo.

CHAMBER CONCERT 4: FINALE The final chamber concert of the summer begins with Rossini’s “Barber of Seville” overture for three players at one piano, a beautiful piece by Korean-American composer Earl Kim, piano quintet by Enrique Granados, and Tchaikovsky’s only string sextet. Pre-Concert Lecture at 6:30 p.m. July 26 7:30 p.m. $32. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

FESTIVAL MOZAIC MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: STEWART GOODYEAR AND JOHN NOVACEK Pianists John Novacek (Artist-in-Residence) and Stewart Goodyear will co-host this mini-recital of works for the piano. Each of them will perform some solo selections and the afternoon will finish with a duet for both pianists. July 26 12-1 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo. FESTIVAL MOZAIC ORCHESTRA CONCERT: BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH Scott Yoo leads the Festival Mozaic Orchestra and soprano Sarah Traubel in a thrilling finale concert of the 2024 San Luis Obispo Summer Music Festival. Free Pre-Concert Lecture at 6:30 p.m. July 27 7:30 p.m. $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. FESTIVAL MOZAIC PRESENTS: NOTABLE INSIGHT (TCHAIKOVSKY) Join Scott Yoo and the Festival Artists as they take you on a “museum docent’s

Hot Dates

$27. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Madonna Inn Ballroom, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo.

HEXENGHUL AND MORE Anomaly House is proud to present the Saturday Night Dead concert series, featuring the darkest in rock, metal, alternative, and more. July 27 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, 805-781-9974.

IMVA AND ABOUT TIME: CONCERTS IN THE PLAZA About Time (California rock) with IMVA (R&B/soul). July 26, 5-8 p.m. Free. DowntownSLO.com/Concerts. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo.

JAZZ WEDNESDAYS Spinning jazz records all night. Bebop, jazz funk, acid jazz, hard bop, nu jazz, jazz house, crossover, Latin jazz, and more. Featuring guest selectors. Music at a polite volume in an acoustically treated space. Vintage sound system, big warm speakers. Plenty of free parking. Wednesdays, 3-8 p.m. through Oct. 30 Free. 805-439-1544. jansplaceslo.com. Jan’s Place, 1817 Osos St., San Luis Obispo.

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.

MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: GOODYEAR AND NOVACEK Pianists

John Novacek (Artist-in-Residence) and Stewart Goodyear will co-host this mini-recital of works for the piano. Each of them will perform some solo selections and the afternoon will finish with a duet for both pianists. July 26 noon Free; suggested $10 donation. 805-781 - 3009. festivalmozaic.org. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

MUSIC ON THE FARM WITH MISS LEO (SESSION 2) Join at City Farm SLO for family involvement music classes with Miss Leo. Come enjoy an hour and a half of music education and nature connection with credentialed music educator, local musician, and nature lover. Class series for ages 3-7. Wednesdays. through Aug. 7 $100. missleomusic.com/education. City Farm SLO, 1221 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, 805-769-8344.

NOTABLE INSIGHT: TCHAIKOVSKY SOUVENIR DE

FLORENCE Scott Yoo and the Festival Artists take you on a “museum docent’s tour” of Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence for string sextet, discussing the piece’s history, the composer’s influences and musical style, and perform some selections. July 25 2 p.m. $27. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

POPS ON! ORCHESTRA NOVO The band goes Hollywood during this program. Aug. 4 4-6 p.m. my805tix.com. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

ROSE’S PAWN SHOP AND NATALIE HASKINS: CONCERTS IN THE PLAZA Natalie Haskins (Americana/folk) and Rose’s Pawn Shop (Americana/folk-rock/bluegrass). Free bike valet. Aug. 2 , 5-8 p.m. Free. DowntownSLO.com/Concerts. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo.

SUMMER MUSIC SERIES AT OAK AND OTTER BREWING CO. Summer music series featuring local artists, including Jaxon Camaero, Spike and the Box, Ben and Danny, Graybill, and Devin Welsh. Check @oakandotterbrewing for up to date info. July 27 2-5 p.m. Free. 805-439-2529. oakandotterbrewing.squarespace. com/events. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

TOM’S ELTON TRIBUTE The world’s number one Elton John tribute band is coming for one night only and bringing their spectacular show. The level of attention to detail in recreating the music and fabulous costumes of Elton John and His Band is “simply unparalleled.” July 28 7-9 p.m. $40-$52. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

2024 LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE CONCERT SERIES These Saturday afternoon concerts are limited and will sell out, so make your purchase early to secure your spot. Saturdays, 2:30-5 p.m. through Oct. 12 my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

FESTIVAL MOZAIC PRESENTS: TIM BLUHM WITH THE COFFIS BROTHERS Singer-songwriter Tim Bluhm, front man for the band Mother Hips. With the band, Bluhm helped to define a new breed of California soul with nine studio albums. The Coffis Brothers pride themselves on their honest, heartfelt roots-rock sound, with an emphasis on the roots. July 25 6:309 p.m. Tickets start at $62. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org.

DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo.

GROVER BEACH SUMMER CONCERTS 2024 Featuring some of best local and regional bands all summer long. Food, craft vendors, and activities for the kids. Free and all ages welcome. Sundays, 3-6 p.m. through Aug. 18 Free. 805-473-4580. groverbeach.org. Ramona Garden Park Center, 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.

KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY Enjoy some good food and karaoke. Fridays, 5-8 p.m. 805-723-5550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo.

KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly event with barbecue offerings and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, 805-925-3500.

TIM BLUHM AND THE COFFIS BROTHERS Singer-songwriter

Tim Bluhm is the frontman for the now-iconic band Mother Hips. With the band, Bluhm helped to define a new breed of California soul with nine studio albums over two-and-a-half decades.

July 25 6:30 p.m. $62. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo. ∆

Management reserves the right to change or cancel promotions and events at any time without notice. Must be 21 or older. Gambling problem? Call 1.800.GAMBLER. ©2024 Chumash Casino Resort.

DINNER & LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEKEND

FRIDAY, JULY 25

SATURDAY, JULY 27 THREE 4 ALL

673 Higuera St, SLO · (805) 439-4400 themarkslo.com

Arts

Entry period for New Times Music Awards closes Aug. 5

Local musicians are invited to compete in the 2024 New Times Music Awards before the contest’s entry period closes on Monday, Aug. 5, at 5 p.m. Participants can enter their songs online at newtimesslo.com. All entrants must reside primarily in San Luis Obispo County or northern Santa Barbara County.

This year marks the 16th year for the annual competition, organized by New Times Media Group. The competition’s awards showcase, which will feature performances from the contest’s finalists, will be held on Friday, Nov. 8, at SLO Brew Rock, located at 855 Aerovista Lane, San Luis Obispo.

Contest participants may enter a maximum of 13 songs and one album. There is a $20 fee per entry. Online entries are preferred, except for album entries, which must be mailed or entered in person. Album submissions must be released between July 1, 2023, and Aug. 8, 2024, to be eligible, and they will be judged based on quality of songs, sound, and packaging.

Album entrants or those who wish to pay with cash or check can drop their submissions off at either the Sun office, located at 801 S. Broadway, suite 3 and 4, Santa Maria, or the New Times office, located at 1010 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.

Participants under 18 years of age may compete in the contest’s youth category and must have a parent or guardian sign their entry form. All contest submissions will be scored by a panel of judges.

Music selections from finalists will be posted online prior to the awards showcase to determine which act will win the Readers’ Choice award. The voting period for readers is scheduled to occur sometime in September and October.

For more info on the 2024 New Times Music Awards, call (805) 546-8208 or email ntma@ newtimesslo.com. See the full list of entry rules and guidelines at newtimesslo.com.

The Amigos sets the tone at Nipomo gala with live jazz and swing

The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center’s 2024 Gala will include live music from local jazz and swing act The Amigos, dinner from Cool Hand Luke’s of Santa Maria, a no-host bar, poker games, and more festivities for guests to look forward to.

The 1920s-themed event will take place at the Edwards Barn, located at 1095 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo, on Saturday, July 27, at 6 p.m. Visit dunescenter.org for more details. ∆ Caleb Wiseblood

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

A star is worn

Badge wearers and bandits of the Wild West face off with gusto in Gunsmokin’

The sheriff of Rooster Punch doesn’t pull any punches for those who desecrate a sacred Santa Maria tradition, during the Great American Melodrama’s latest farce set in the late 1800s.

When top cop Kit Carter (Austen Horne) hears word about a band of bandits traveling through her jurisdiction, she suspects they’re scheming to steal a local ranch’s prized cabbages. But this news doesn’t offend her nearly as much as the intentions of some law-abiding carnies, whom the convicts plan to pawn the cabbages off to.

Amid the county and state fairs each summer brings, Carter takes a timely jab at visiting food vendors who serve Santa Maria-style barbecue with coleslaw—made with the stolen cabbages— rather than a side of salsa and a tossed green salad, a substitution she condemns as sacrilege.

Like many shows at the Great American

Melodrama, Gunsmokin’, which opened in midJuly and is slated to run through early September, is full of local inside jokes, fourth wall breaks, anachronistic humor, and song spoofs.

Some characters sing and dance to parodies of Prince’s “1999” (swapped to “1899”) and Sir Mixa-Lot’s “Baby Got Back” (rearranged as “Baby Got Brap” with new lyrics such as “I like big guns and I cannot lie”), while others make small talk about traffic congestion with multi-horse pileups.

Little does the sheriff know that O’Shea was hired by Rooster Punch resident Perky LaPett (Jill Price) as part of an elaborate plot to swindle her peers’ real estate from under their noses. LaPett is a greedy saloon owner who tasks O’Shea to distract Carter while she plans to intercept an important telegram with news of an upcoming railroad development.

Where there’s smoke ...

Gunsmokin’ premiered on July 12 and is scheduled to run through Sept. 7 at the Great American Melodrama, located at 1863 Front St., Oceano. Call (805) 489-2499 or visit americanmelodrama.com for tickets or more info.

During an expedition to track down the cabbage bandits, Sheriff Carter has to pull over unexpectedly due to “a flat.” Since all the show’s horseback stuff is Monty Python-style without any actual horses, we don’t get to see what part of the horse Carter fills with air (probably the hooves, but it’s anybody’s guess). But the ensuing air pump sound effects are destined to make the most stern audience member break their poker face and chortle.

Tickets to performances of Gunsmokin’ can also be purchased in person at the theater’s box office, which is open Wednesday through Saturday, from noon to 5:30 p.m., and every Sunday, from noon to 4:30 p.m.

Without hope of a new train to boost the town’s economy, LaPett figures her neighbors in Rooster Punch will sell their land at desperately low rates. Like the Melodrama’s most memorable villains, LaPett is clearly fodder for boos and hisses from the audience, especially when she refers to Carter as “Sheriff” and similarly condescending sneers.

Carter is accompanied by a mysterious gunslinger named Rick O’Shea (Noah Esquivel), who bears a striking resemblance to the sheriff’s late husband (also Esquivel). O’Shea is an out-oftowner with an aim to claim the bandits’ bounty reward, or so Carter is led to believe.

Alongside Horne, Esquivel, and Price, the Melodrama’s stage is littered with scenery-chewing supporting characters throughout Gunsmokin’, such as Deputy Trusty (Jeffrey Laughrun), who’s painfully clueless when it comes to obvious romantic advances from his crush, Virginia (Annaliese Chambers), whose patience is driven to a boil.

Nicholas Houchin brings some Mr. Smeeesque energy to the mix as LaPett’s crony, Sam “Little Man” Shanks, and Brett Mollard plays Mayor Maynot (get it?) with bureaucratic overkill, especially when he makes sure to stop dramatically every time he reads “stop” at the end of a sentence in a telegram. This is your cue to “stop” what you’re doing and go see Gunsmokin’. “Stop.” Δ

Send telegrams and Club Penguin notifications to Calendar Editor Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@ newtimesslo.com.

IF THE BOOT FITS The ensemble cast of the Great American Melodrama’s Gunsmokin’, currently on-stage through early September, includes Annaliese Chambers (top) as Rooster Punch resident Virginia and Jeffrey Laughrun (bottom) as Deputy Trusty, who both participates in and narrates the show.

HEROES AND VILLAINS Sheriff Kit Carter (Austen Horne, left) squares off against saloon owner and greedy land speculator Perky LaPett (Jill Price, right) in Gunsmokin’

DASTARDLY DUO Perky LaPett (Jill Price, right) hires prolific gunslinger Rick O’Shea (Noah Esquivel, left) to assist her in pulling off a shady landswindling scheme.

COURTESY PHOTOS BY CODY SOPER

TO BE OR NOT TO BE Brett Mollard gives a memorable performance as one of Rooster Punch’s elected officials, Mayor Maynot, in Gunsmokin’

COURTESY

Love and tornadoes

Lee Isaac Chung (Minari) directs this action-adventure about Kate (Daisy Edgar-Jones), a retired tornado-chaser and meteorologist who’s persuaded by Tyler (Glen Powell), a reckless tornado-chasing hotdog, to return to Oklahoma and join his team as they chase tornadoes armed with new technology. (122 min.)

Glen I went into this film with low expectations. It’s been 28 years since the original Twister with Bill Paxton and Helen Hunt. Did we really need a sequel? And then there was the trailer with its cringe-worthy Glen Powell-uttered line, “You don’t face your fears. You ride ’em.” Was the entire film going to be that eye-rollingly dumb? Well, guess what? Twisters is a blast and a worthy successor. Yes, it’s ridiculous, but so was the Jan de Bont-directed original. Unlike the first film, this new one feels like the danger is more real. The tornado special effects are thundering and frightening. There’s also a tension-filled side plot about science and humanity over profit, and the chemistry between Edgar-Jones and Powell is palpable. Beautifully shot in Oklahoma, the film packs an entertaining punch. Summer blockbuster season is in full swing.

Anna It is pretty tough to go up against the original Twister, and while for me nothing could rival the magic of Paxton and Hunt and those flying cows, Twisters is a fun ride. Kate is a young scientist with a knack for guessing what a storm is going to do, but when she makes a bad call on a storm’s power, she’s left alone and reeling. We catch up with her five years later when she’s working in New York for the National Weather Service.

his storm chasing team and persona. Brains, brawn, big-ass storms—this action/love story is fun from start to end.

What’s it rated? PG-13

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

Where’s it showing? Bay, Colony, Downtown Centre, Park, Stadium 10

Her old pal and fellow chaser Javi (Anthony Ramos) shows up one day with amazing news—they’ve found a way to create a 3D scan of tornadoes, which will help them develop a way of predicting and warning people when a twister is headed their way. While Kate is reluctant, she agrees to a week of storm chasing with Javi and soon meets Tyler, a seemingly douchey YouTube star who has built a brand around

A FAMILY AFFAIR

What’s it rated? PG-13

When? 2024

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Zara (Joey King) is desperate to be taken seriously by her boss, superstar actor Chris Cole (Zac Efron), but he still treats her like an assistant, despite his promises to help her become a film producer. Zara lives with her mom, Brooke (Nicole Kidman), a renowned author. Brooke lost her husband 11 years prior and hasn’t found love in the years since. She’s got a closet full of Vogue -gifted clothing—because she penned some columns for the magazine—and nowhere to wear them, that is until she and Chris make a connection. He’s 16 years her junior, but the two relate over isolation. Chris hasn’t had a “normal” life in years, and while he may be surrounded by people, he doesn’t have any friends. He’s self-involved and image-obsessed, but Brooke finds something deeper, and the two can’t help but be drawn to each other. like Efron and Kidman together. They both bring humor to their roles, and I absolutely adored King as Zara. She’s flabbergasted by the budding relationship between her boss and her mom and very wary that Chris will fall back into his old

Glen I thought you were going to clock me when we left the theater and I said I think I like this one more than the original. Twister has a true cult following with fiercely protective members. You’d think they’d hate this attempt at a reboot, but look at you praising Twisters. Not only that, but most critics have been rating it positively, and audiences seem to be loving it. Powell’s especially good at playing cocky, which is no doubt why he was cast opposite Tom Cruise in Top Gun: Maverick. He seems to be everywhere these days. He’s charming and douchey at the same time. I was sort of scratching my head when Tyler kept referring to Kate as “city girl.” He couldn’t

womanizing habits. This film is just plain fun, cute, and funny—definitely worth a couple of hours spent with your streaming device. (114 min.)

hear her Oklahoma accent? Look, to enjoy this story, you don’t want to think about it too hard. What it has is the same sort of dumb magic as the first—a film equal parts good and bad that achieves a gleeful popcorn-movie balance. Anna Personally, Twisters doesn’t stand a chance at taking the place in my heart of the original, but that isn’t to say I didn’t have fun watching it! In fact, I won’t be surprised if I watch it again once it heads to streaming services. Kate has the same sort of trauma built in that Jo (Helen Hunt) did in the first film, and it works well to create a complicated but also completely cool character. Twister is one of my desert-island movies, and that will never change—but Twisters stands on its own as a fun, popcornpoppin’ flick, and I love that we live in a universe with both! ∆

Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Split Screen.

BEVERLY HILLS COP:

AXEL F

What’s it rated? R

When? 2024

Where’s it showing? Netflix

The heat is on … again. In this fourth entry into the Beverly Hills Cop franchise, Detroit Det. Alex Foley (Eddie Murphy) returns to Beverly Hills after the life of his semi-estranged daughter, Jane (Taylour Paige), is threatened. As he investigates, he finds himself working with his old buddies John Taggart (John Aston), now the police chief, and former detective turned private investigator Billy Rosewood (Judge Reinhold). Even Serge (Bronson Pinchot) makes an appearance. The film also stars Joseph GordonLevitt as Detective Bobby Abbott and Kevin Bacon as Capt. Cade Grant. Naturally, there’s a conspiracy afoot and maybe some dirty cops. Axel F is trying really hard to recapture the magic of the 1984 original, right down to the soundtrack that reprises many of the original’s songs. Murphy is engaging as the wisecracking Axel, and the entire affair has the

same breezy quality of the first film as well as the emotional punch, this time mostly focusing on the relationship between Axel and Jane. Look, it’s not reinventing the wheel, but if you’re in the mood for a little nostalgia, it’s two hours well spent. And what’s up with Eddie Murphy? He’s now 63! Does the man not age? (117 min.) ∆

—Glen

WEATHER SAVANT Daisy Edgar-Jones stars as Kate, a former tornado chaser haunted by tragedy, who nonetheless returns to chasing, in Twisters , screening in local theaters.

COURTESY PHOTO BY MELINDA SUE

DIVA BOSS Assistant Zara Ford (Joey King) has to deal with her Hollywood star boss, Chris Cole (Zac Efron), who ends up having an affair with her mom, in A Family Affair, screening on Netflix.

DOING THE NEUTRON DANCE Eddie Murphy reprises his role as Detroit Police Detective Axel Foley, who returns to Beverly Hills on another case, in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, screening on Netflix.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

Music

BY GLEN STARKEY

A search for place

Azere Wilson finds her sound

On her debut album, local Americana and roots singer-songwriter

Azere Wilson looks to the past for inspiration. The 10-song collection feels timeless, opening with “Reach Out,” a spiritual she recorded on her cellphone in the moment. It sets the tone for a record inspired by the Black community—a community Wilson has been desperate to connect with.

As “herstory” explains on her website, her “small-town, Eurocentric upbringing—as one of few BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of color) in her community—shaped much of her youth and translates into her storytelling.”

Her “struggle to fit into a community where she never truly felt accepted fueled her

music. He’s touring in support of his most recent album, Never Too Late to Call

“There’s a theme running throughout the record about people needing each other and reaching out to each other,” Thorn said in press materials.

A worthy message for our times from a performer who drips with integrity.

Moonshiner Collective plays on Saturday, July 27, at the new outdoor Los Osos venue at Celia’s Garden Café (5 p.m.; all ages; $29.56 at goodmedicinepresents.com).

The band features multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter Dan Curcio, eightstring guitarist Gary Wooten, and other collaborators, and Curcio’s songs range from rock to blues to funk and Americana. He’s got a great voice and the vibe at his shows is always intimate and chill.

desire to search out her roots in the Black community. This led her to delve deeper into the music and stories of her ancestors, providing an opportunity to explore these connections through her music.”

The result is a thoughtful collection of acoustic songs that pays homage to Black folk and blues artists of the past. Wilson’s got a really engaging and smoky voice, and she managed to get some great players to back her up, including Manas Itene, percussionist for Michael Franti & Spearhead, and violinist Tyson Leonard of Tropo. The production values are excellent, and it’s available on vinyl for all you audiophiles.

She reinterprets old blues tunes from the 1900s and injects bluegrass, blues, and jazzy folk into her originals.

“When covering country tunes, I’d joke that my love for country music and bluegrass comes from the white side of my family,” she explained, “but after my research and further exploration, I realized Americana, country, bluegrass all stem from Black roots. This music embodies all of me.”

Azere Wilson plays a record release party for her album The Rock the Roots the Lean On Me on Saturday, July 27, at Puffers of Pismo (7 to 10 p.m.; $5 at the door).

Numbskull and Good Medicine

Don’t forget Southern singer-songwriter Paul Thorn plays The Siren on Thursday, July 25 (6:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; $37.20 at goodmedicinepresents.com). He mixes blues, rock, country, and Americana into his sound, and he’s also an engaging raconteur whose stories are every bit as entertaining as his

Harpist and singer Mikaela Davis plays The Siren on Wednesday, July 31 (7 p.m.; 21-and-older; $24.41 at goodmedicinepresents. com), bringing her ethereal and unusual sounds to Morro Bay. She made her recording debut six years ago with Delivery, and since then she’s shared the stage with likes of Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, Christian McBride, Bon Iver, Lake Street Dive, and Circles Around the Sun. I don’t think I’ve ever seen harp so perfectly blended into a folk, rock, and pop act. Jeffrey Silverstein opens.

Also at The Siren …

In addition to the two Numbskull and Good Medicine shows this week, The Siren has also booked LA-based Americana, folk, and country singer-songwriter Jeffrey Livingstone on Friday, July 26 (7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; free).

The multi-instrumentalist plays originals influenced by John Prine, Bob Dylan, and John Lennon, and his sound has been compared to Eric Clapton, Peter Green, and Jerry Garcia. Singer-songwriter Katie Chappell opens the show.

Vina Robles Amphitheatre

Wish you could have seen Fleetwood Mac back in the day but never did? Head to Vina Robles Amphitheatre on Saturday, July 27, and revel in the sounds of Rumours of

Fleetwood Mac (8 p.m.; all ages; $35 to $55 at vinaroblesamphitheatre.com).

They’ve been called “the world’s finest tribute to Fleetwood Mac,” and British newspaper Mail on Sunday wrote, “They do Fleetwood Mac better than Fleetwood Mac.” I don’t know about that, but I checked out some videos online, and I gotta say, this is a tight, professional, and accurate-sound homage playing all your favorite hits.

More music …

Concerts in the Plaza marches on this Friday, July 26, opening with blues-rock, country, and reggae-inspired original music by husband-and-wife duo About Time (5 p.m.), followed by headliner IMVA (6 to 8 p.m.), a soul and R&B band. Get ’em while they’re hot.

The Jump Jax play the Live at the Lighthouse Concert Series this Saturday, July 27 (shuttles to the venue start at 1 p.m., with music from 2:30 to 5 p.m.; all ages; $28.62 to $44.69 at pointsanluislighthouse. org). Get ready for some jump-swing, rockabilly, and soul music when this energetic group led by Ted Waterhouse delivers a danceable mix of vintage classics and originals.

Elton John tribute act Tom’s Elton Tribute plays two local shows starting with one in Cal Poly’s Performing Arts Center on Sunday, July 28 (7 p.m.; $53 adult or $40 for seniors 65 and older at pacslo.org) and again on Wednesday, July 31, in the Templeton Performing Arts Center (7 p.m.; ages 5 and older; $33.85 at eventbrite.com). Expect to hear hits such as “Bennie and the Jets,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Rocket Man,” “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me,” “I’m Still Standing,” “Crocodile Rock,” and

“Your Song” performed by Tom Cridland. Enjoy two private garden concerts in Atascadero, on Sunday, Aug. 4, featuring NYC pianist Dalton Ridenhour and Nashville drummer Danny Coots, joined on Monday, Aug. 5, by local favorite, pianist Carl Sonny Leyland. (Both shows start at 5 p.m.; the duo is $20 and the trio $30, with half price for teens and free for those under 12. Contact slomusictoday@gmail.com to save a seat and get directions).

Calling all musical artists! Time is running out to submit your entries for the 16th annual New Times Music Awards. You have until 5 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 5, to enter. You’ll find rules, information, and an entry form on page 19 of this issue, or visit newtimesslo.com/ sanluisobispo/NTMAHome/Page to submit entries online. Winners must be able to perform at the NTMA award ceremony and showcase on Friday, Nov. 8, in Rod & Hammer Rock. Good luck!

Contact Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

ROOTS AND BRANCHES Americana singer-songwriter Azere Wilson plays a record release party at Puffers of Pismo on July 27

GENRE-BENDER Singer-songwriter and harpist Mikaela Davis brings her ethereal music to The Siren, on July 31

PHOTO COURTESY OF MIKAELA DAVIS

SOUTHERN COMFORT Numbskull and Good Medicine presents Southern gentleman and singer-songwriter Paul Thorn in The Siren on July 25 COURTESY PHOTO BY STEVE ROBERTS

ROCKET MAN Tom Cridland channels Elton John in his show Tom’s Elton Tribute, playing in Cal Poly’s Performing Arts Center on July 28 , and again on July 31 , in the Templeton Performing Arts Center.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM CRIDLAND

7/25

PAUL THORN

Southern Rock, Blues Songwriter, 7PM

FRI 7/26

JEFF LIVINGSTONE w/ KATIE CHAPPELL

Americana, Country, FREE SHOW, 7:30PM

7/27 SWING SHIFT

Classic Rock Dance Party, FREE SHOW, 2PM

LADY & THE TRAMPS

Rock, R&B, Soul, Blues, FREE SHOW, 7:30PM

SUN 7/28 JAZZ JAM - OPEN JAM

Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living

AM at the Pavilion on the Lake 9315 Pismo Avenue · Atascadero · CA · 93422 805-391-4465 · info@awakeningways.org www.awakeningways.org

Soul, Blues, Rock, FREE SHOW, 7PM

Funk, Soul, Jazz Fusion, FREE SHOW, 4PM TUE 7/30 BLUES JAM - OPEN JAM

Critically-Acclaimed Harpist / Pop Singer, 7PM WED 7/31

THU 8/1

MIKAELA DAVIS w/ JEFFERY SILVERSTEIN

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JULY

7/27 Earls of Tuesday 7/28 Jill Knight

AUGUST

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8/4 Cocktail Shorty 8/10 Electric Lavender Train

8/11 Joi Polloi

8/17 Earls of Tuesday

8/18 Cocktail Shorty 8/24 Jill Knight

Call for Reservations 805-927-4502 www.raggedpointinn.com

Flavor

Viticultural legend

Bill Greenough hits dual milestones with his 80th birthday and 50th anniversary of Saucelito Canyon Vineyard

San Luis Obispo County’s oldest vineyard, tucked in the remote upper Arroyo Grande Valley near Lopez Lake, is a story of place, perseverance, and love.

Planted in 1880, abandoned for decades, then resurrected by Montecito native Bill Greenough in 1974, Saucelito Canyon Vineyard produces potent and unique zinfandel that embraces the canyon as much as its stewards.

“The main thing I’ve accomplished in my life was getting that [vineyard] back under production, starting the winery, and making wine,” Bill said.

It wasn’t easy. Bill purchased the property from the granddaughters of British immigrant Henry Ditmas, who planted the original vines. Native plants had overtaken the vineyard, but Bill saw potential. He cut the gnarled vines back, dug down to the root head, and trained new shoots—a grueling years-long process.

After resurrecting his beloved vineyard, he sought out a soulmate to complete the picture. He already had someone in mind.

“I was always captivated by Bill,” said Nancy Greenough, who married Bill in 1980.

“We both were captivated with each other

Living history

The Saucelito Canyon Tasting Room, located at 3080 Biddle Ranch Road in San Luis Obispo, is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets to the Futures Barrel Tasting & Picnic at the winery’s historic Arroyo Grande vineyard on Aug. 3, visit saucelitocanyon.com. Follow the winery on Instagram and Facebook @saucelitocanyonvineyard.

from that first look across the room, but destiny was not to happen for 10 years or so.

“Bill was an amazing hard worker, a visionary of what he wanted to do at Saucelito. He restored the old vineyard single-handedly,” she said. “He knew it was a special place, something most people also feel when they visit. He loved the place and wanted to share it with someone, and I was/ am the lucky someone.

“It started just as a cabin he built for himself, but when we were married and he carried me through the threshold, it was the best home ever.”

The grapes—3 acres from the original 1880 plot and another 7 acres of additional zinfandel plantings as well as cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, and malbec—also flourished in the remote canyon.

SALT OF THE EARTH

Paso Robles author Sean Weir wrote extensively about the historic dryfarmed vineyard in his 2015 memoir The Mad Crush, with an expanded second edition set for release later this year.

“It was humbling to consider the geologic violence that had been required to create such a scene,” he wrote. “Equally remarkable was the fact that it wasn’t uncommon to discover marine fossils percolating through the soil at Saucelito Canyon.

“The vineyard was situated at 800 feet above sea level and 18 miles from the beach. But once upon a time the land had been undersea. In some ways, the wine made here was millions of years in the making.”

Bill and Nancy released their first vintage under their own label in 1982, added children Margaret and Tom to the family fold, opened a tasting room closer to civilization in Edna Valley in 2004, and ratcheted up annual production to a modest 4,500 cases.

Tom assumed the head winemaker role in 2009 and is “doing a very, very good job,” Bill added. “It makes me very proud.”

Now producing around 20 different red and white wines from estate and locally sourced grapes, Tom is excited to carry on the Saucelito legacy.

“It’s extremely impressive how [Bill] had the vision and wherewithal to see an empty field … and turn it into the facility we have now,” Tom said. “We still aren’t on the power grid, but it’s come a long way from kerosene lanterns.

“The vineyard and the rest of the ranch

are very special to me. I have spent my entire life out here and couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.”

Tom even recently discovered a new grape on the property.

“Counoise is an unusual grape,” Bill said. “It’s part of the 1880 vineyard. It survived by growing in the creek, so it got a lot of water. Tom took some cuttings and leaves and sent them off to Davis for identification.”

Tom’s slowly building up the counoise vineyard, so stay tuned for even more exciting wines.

Guests wanting to experience Saucelito’s liquid lineup can explore options at the

ZIN PIONEER Self-taught winemaker Bill Greenough purchased Rancho Saucelito—Spanish for little willow tree—in 1974. The reclaimed Arroyo Grande property features a zinfandel vineyard with stunning views, his former residence, a production facility, and a wine cellar carved into a hillside. Nothing goes to waste.

LABOR OF LOVE Bill Greenough, 80, and his wife Nancy, 75, met in 1965, when both were dating their first spouses. Nancy says Bill was always her secret love. In the ’70s, following divorces and communal grape stompings in Santa Barbara, Bill reached out. The couple has been making wine together ever since.

THE CANYON CALLS When Bill Greenough made his initial trek to remote Saucelito Canyon in the ’70s, he discovered an abandoned zinfandel vineyard clinging to life under chaparral and poison oak. Where others saw neglect, he saw potential. He purchased the 560-acre property for $100,000.

PHOTO BY CHERISH

COURTESY

PHOTO BY CHRIS LESCHINSKY

PHOTO COURTESY OF SAUCELITO CANYON

PHOTO BY CHERISH WHYTE

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Biddle Ranch Road tasting room, or even visit the storied vineyard itself at a special ticketed event on Aug. 3. The agenda includes sampling 2023 reserve reds from the barrel while enjoying the property’s iconic Hi Mountain view, captured by artist Sebastian Titus and gracing Saucelito’s labels.

On his 80th year of life and his vineyard’s 50th anniversary, Bill notes that the vines aren’t going anywhere.

“They’ll outlive me, that’s for sure,” he said.

In The Mad Crush, Weir wrote:

“When Henry Ditmas left the canyon, divorced and perhaps driven out in 1886, he may have felt like a failure.

“If only he could witness his unlikely legacy. If only he could know that it wasn’t for naught, and that many lives have been changed by the very vines he planted, vines that are still producing wine more than 130 years later.”

When Tom first started working alongside his father, he wasn’t positive he’d be his successor, and Bill didn’t push.

“That was 18 years ago,” Tom said, “and I have no regrets.

“I also love the idea about keeping the property in the family for the next generation so my daughter, nieces, and nephew can also grow up out here and experience having so much space. Hopefully, between the four of them one will want to take over the business.”

In the meantime, Bill’s love story has a sequel, and he and Nancy are enjoying semi-retirement.

“Nancy and I are very pleased that Tom

Autumn Arts

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PUBLICATION DATE: SEPTEMBER 26

and Margaret are interested in continuing the vineyard and winery,” he said. “Margaret is a doctor, so she has little time, but she is very good at problem solving.

“When [we] started the winery … Nancy did the business side and I did the vineyard and winemaking. We had to work together on everything to make it a go. Hard to believe we have lasted 50 years.

“I hope they can continue on. Nancy and I have enjoyed the winery experience and satisfaction of building something from nothing, and I am sure Tom and Margaret feel the same way.

“But Saucelito’s future is in their hands, and it’s their future if they want it.” ∆

Flavor Writer Cherish Whyte was honored to get the grand tour of Saucelito Canyon by Bill Greenough himself. She’s still in awe at cwhyte@newtimesslo.com.

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CURRENT CRUSH The beverage lineup at Saucelito’s Edna Valley tasting room includes a handful of whites and rosés, and a slew of red blends and single varietals. Estate zinfandel is the star attraction.

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Private parties may run FREE classified ads in the FOR SALE (items under $200) and GARAGE SALE sections for two weeks

Contact us today! (805) 546-8208 or classifieds@newtimesslo.com

HELP WANTED

Advertising Sales Pro Wanted New Times, San Luis Obispo’s premier community newspaper is expanding its sales department! The New Times is a proud, active member of the San Luis Obispo community contributing comprehensive local news, and entertainment coverage for all of SLO County. We are seeking energetic and self-motivated individuals looking for a career in advertising sales. As part of The New Times team, you can build a career in an exciting industry, enjoy a small office atmosphere, a wonderful work environment and be a part of a company that makes a difference in our community. These are full time positions. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and reliable automobile. Sales experience preferred. Competitive compensation base on your sales experience and health benefits included. Please send cover letter and resume to crucker@newtimesslo.com

JOBS WANTED

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Recruitment closes 8-2-24 at 5:00 p.m. Contact City of Atascadero, 6500 Palma Ave, Atascadero, CA 93422, phone (805) 461-5000, or visit www. atascadero.org/jobs

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2.4

Shandon-San Juan Water District

The Board of Supervisors of the County of San Luis Obispo, State of California, ordains as follows:

SECTION 1: The Board finds and determines:

a. That it has the authority to revise fee charges for providing any product, service, or enforcement of various regulations under the general laws of the State of California, including Government Code Sections 54985 et seq. and 66010 et seq.

b. The Board has adopted a policy (Resolution No. 75-396) requiring the County Administrator and the Auditor-Controller to annually review changes in fees and charges for specific County products, services and costs of enforcement with the departments making those charges, and make recommendations to this Board as to whether said charges should remain the same, be increased or be decreased.

c. On October 31, 2023, Ordinance No. 3497 was adopted amending Behavioral Health fees associated with fund center 166 on FY 2023-24 Schedule B to reflect the California Advancing and Innovating MediCal (CalAIM) Behavioral Health Payment Reform model for the purpose of state reimbursement, by deleting the 16 previous fees established under the cost reimbursed model and adding 1,268 specific CPT-related fees.

d. With the enactment of CalAIM, the Board does not have authority or discretion over the aforementioned Behavioral Health Fees, which are determined, updated and published annually by DHCS. (California Welfare and Institutions Code (W&I Code) Article 5.51,Sections 14184.100, 14184.102, 14184.402, 14184.403, 14184.404, and 14184.405)

e. DHCS has established a fee schedule for outpatient services, day services, other 24- hour services, psychiatric inpatient hospital services, and community-based mobile crisis intervention services provided through the Specialty Mental Health Services delivery system. DHCS has established a fee schedule for outpatient services, day services, residential treatment Services, inpatient withdrawal management services, partial hospitalization services, and community-based mobile crisis intervention services provided through the Drug Medi-Cal Programs. The fee schedule for each group of services can be found the following website: https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/ services/MH/Pages/medi-cal-behavioral- health-feeschedules-FY24-25.aspx

f. FY 2024-25 Schedule B shall now be modified by deleting the 1,268 previous fees established under the cost reimbursed model and adding footnotes to provide a link to DHCS fees and explain adjustments to rates.

g. By definition, these charges are not a “tax” and are exempt from voter approval pursuant to California Constitution, Article XIIIC. Section 1, paragraph €(1) [charge for specific benefit conferred]/(2)[charge for specific service provided]/(3)[charge for issuing license or performing inspection]/(4){charge for use of government property]/(5)[fine or penalty imposed for violation of law] (Prop. 26).

h. Public Notice has been given in accordance with Government Code Section 66016 and 66018.

SECTION 2: The fee schedules are amended as follows:

a. That the fee changes attached and incorporated by reference herein shown on Schedule “B” as “New” and as “Deleted” are hereby approved, and shall be effective July 16, 2024.

b. That the changes to footnotes attached and incorporated by reference herein shown on Schedule “B” are hereby approved, and shall be effective July 16, 2024.

SECTION 3: All departmental managers and divisional managers whose services are listed in Schedule “B” are hereby directed to, upon the dates specified in Section 2 above, amend their fees for services to reflect the fees shown in Schedule “B” as “New” and as “Deleted”.

SECTION 4: This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force and effect as set forth in Section 2 above; 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 June 18, 2024 and PASSED and ADOPTED by the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Luis Obispo, State of California, on the July 16, 2024, by the following roll call vote, to wit:

AYES: Supervisors Ortiz-Legg, Gibson, Paulding and Chairperson Arnold NOES: None

ABSENT: Supervisor Peschong

ABSTAINING: None

DATED: July 24, 2024

MATTHEW P. PONTES, County Administrative Officer and Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of Supervisors

By: /s/ Niki Martin, Deputy Clerk

*”Schedule B” is not attached hereto and is available in the Administrative Office and online at https://agenda. slocounty.ca.gov/iip/sanluisobispo/meeting/details/1763, Meeting Date: 07/16/24, Agenda Item No. 24. July 25, 2024

CITY OF GROVER BEACH REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

An electronic copy in PDF format of all required submittals must be submitted to publicworks@groverbeach.org and received by no later than 2:00pm on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. Submittals received after the specified time will not be accepted. PDF documents must have permissions enabled for comments and printing.

CITY WIDE STREET SWEEPING SERVICES

The entire Request for Proposal document may be obtained electronically on the City’s website at www.groverbeach.org, by email to publicworks@groverbeach.org or by calling 805-473-4530.

July 18 & 25, 2024

CITY OF GROVER BEACH

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Grover Beach will conduct a Public Hearing on TUESDAY, August 6th, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 154 South 8th Street, Grover Beach for the following:

Project No.: Development Application 24-25

Address: 729 Trouville Avenue and 595 S. 7th Street

Applicant: Allison & Kellen Costelow

Description: Lot Line Adjustment and Variance to correct a non-conforming property line between two existing properties and reduce the side setback and minimum lot width requirements, respectively. (APN 060-279-025 and 060-279-019)

Environmental Determination: In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), it has been determined that the project is exempt from the requirements of CEQA pursuant to 15305: (Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitations) of the CEQA Guidelines because the proposed project consists of a minor lot line adjustment between two existing developed properties located on a property that does not result in the creation of any new parcels.

Project No.: Development Application 24-37

Address: 921 – 931 Huston Street

Applicant: El Dorado Holdings, LLC

Description: A second, one-year time extension for Development Application 21-18 for a Use Permit to establish a commercial cannabis processing, manufacturing, and distribution facility. (APN: 060-546003)

Environmental Determination: In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), this project received a Categorical Exemption from the provisions of CEQA (California Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq., “CEQA”) and CEQA Guidelines (Title 14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000, et seq.) Section 15301 and 15303 because the project includes interior alterations that involves negligible expansion of an industrial type use and the construction of a new sidewalk.

Where You Come In:

Any member of the public may appear at the meeting and be heard on the item described in this notice or submit written comments prior to the meeting by personal delivery or mail to: Community Development Department, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA 93433 or by email to comdev@groverbeach.org. If you require special accommodations to participate in the public hearing, please contact the City Clerk’s office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting by calling (805) 473-4567.

For More Information:

If you have questions or would like more information regarding the item(s) described in this notice, please contact the Community Development Department by telephone at (805) 473-4520 or send an e-mail to comdev@groverbeach.org

The Planning Commission may also discuss other items of business at this meeting. The complete meeting agenda and staff report(s) on the item(s) will be posted on the City’s website at www.groverbeach.org. Live broadcasts of Planning Commission meetings may be seen on cable television Channel 20, as well as over the Internet at www. groverbeach.org/160/Agendas-Staff-Reports-Minutes (click on the link “City Council and Planning Commission Meetings Live”).

If you challenge the nature of the proposed actions in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the Public Hearing(s) described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to, the Public Hearing. (Govt. Code Sec. 65009)

/s/ Nicole Retana, Deputy City Clerk

Secretary to Planning Commission

Dated: Thursday, July 25, 2024

CITY OF GROVER BEACH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Grover Beach will conduct a Public Hearing on TUESDAY, August 6th, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 154 South 8th Street, Grover Beach for the following:

Project No.: Development Application 24-36

Address: Citywide

Applicant: City of Grover Beach

Description: City Application to Amend the Grover Beach Municipal Code Article IX (Development Code) including amendments to Chapter 2 (Zones and Allowable Land Uses), Section 3.10.020 (Fences and Walls), new Section 3.10.062 (Edge Conditions), amendments to Sections 3.10.065 (Screening), 3.10.080 (Upper Story Open Spaces), 4.10.015 (Accessory Dwelling Units), 4.10.030 (Accessory Structures), 5.10.030 (General Provisions), Chapter 6 (Procedures), 8.20.060 (review Authority for Subdivision Decisions), new Section 8.170 (Urban Lot Subdivisions), and amendments to Chapter 9 (Definitions); the project also includes a Local Coastal Program Amendment.

Environmental Determination: In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), it has been determined that this action is not a project within the meaning of the CEQA (California Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq., “CEQA”) and CEQA Guidelines (Title 14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000, et seq.) Section 15378(b)(5) and is therefore exempt from CEQA because it will not result in any direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.

Where You Come In:

Any member of the public may appear at the meeting and be heard on the item described in this notice or submit written comments prior to the meeting by personal delivery or mail to: Community Development Department, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA 93433 or by email to comdev@groverbeach.org. If you require special accommodations to participate in the public hearing, please contact the City Clerk’s office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting by calling (805) 473-4567.

For More Information:

If you have questions or would like more information regarding the item(s) described in this notice, please contact the Community Development Department by telephone at (805) 473-4520 or send an e-mail to comdev@groverbeach.org

The Planning Commission may also discuss other items of business at this meeting. The complete meeting agenda and staff report(s) on the item(s) will be posted on the City’s website at www.groverbeach.org. Live broadcasts of Planning Commission meetings may be seen on cable television Channel 20, as well as over the Internet at www.groverbeach.org/160/Agendas-Staff-Reports-Minutes (click on the link “City Council and Planning Commission Meetings Live”).

If you challenge the nature of the proposed actions in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the Public Hearing(s) described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to, the Public Hearing. (Govt. Code Sec. 65009)

/s/ Nicole Retana, Deputy City Clerk Secretary to Planning Commission

Dated: Thursday, July 25, 2024

Publish: on Thursday, July 25, 2024 New Times Post: on Thursday, July 25, 2024 Grover Beach City Hall Project Sites

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, the Pismo Beach City Council will hold a public hearing in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, for the following purpose: PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA: PROTEST HEARING AND CERTIFICATION OF WEED ABATEMENT CHARGES FOR FORWARDING TO THE COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO FOR PLACEMENT ON 2024 PROPERTY TAX ROLLS

Description: Conduct a public hearing to hear protests from citizens whose lots have been cleared by the City Contractor. Adopt a resolution forwarding the weed abatement charges to the County of San Luis Obispo for placement on the 2024 property tax rolls.

Details about ways to participate in this hearing will be provided on the agenda posted for the meeting online at pismobeach.org/ agenda, and on the bulletin board at City Hall. The agenda will be posted in the afternoon of August 1, 2024.

You have a right to comment on these projects and their effect on our community. Interested persons are invited to participate in the hearing or otherwise express their views and opinions regarding the proposed projects. Emailed comments may be submitted to citycouncil@pismobeach.org; staff cannot guarantee that emailed comments submitted after the start of the meeting will be given full consideration before action is taken. Written comments may be delivered or mailed to the City Clerk’s Office at 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449, prior to the meeting, or hand-delivered during the meeting no later than the comment period for this item. Oral comment may be provided prior to the meeting by calling 805-7737005 and leaving a voice message. Please state and spell your name, and identify your item of interest. Oral comment may also be made during the meeting, either by joining the virtual meeting using the link provided on the agenda document, or by attending the meeting in person in the Council Chamber at City Hall. Please refer to the agenda for this meeting for specific instructions for participation.

Staff reports, plans and other information related to these projects are available for public review from the City Clerk’s Office, by emailing City Clerk Erica Inderlied at einderlied@pismobeach.org. The meeting agenda and staff report will be available no later than the Thursday before the meeting and may be obtained upon request by mail or by visiting www.pismobeach.org/agenda. The Council meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and streamed on the City’s website.

PLEASE NOTE:

Erica Inderlied City Clerk July 25, 2024 ORDINANCE NO. 3514

If you challenge the action taken on this item in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Pismo Beach at, or prior to, the public hearing.

For further information, please contact Erica Inderlied, City Clerk, at einderlied@pismobeach.org or 805-773-7003.

Notice is hereby given that at its regular meeting on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at 6:30 PM, the City Council of the City of El Paso de Robles adopted Ordinance No. 1141 which was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the 4th day of June, 2024, for first reading by the City Council of the City of El Paso de Robles, and adopted on the 16th day of July, 2024, by the following vote:

AYES: Gregory, Roden, Strong, Hamon NOES: Bausch

The following is the full text of the ordinance: WHEREAS, on March 20, 1984, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 489, adding Section 8.08.055 to the City of El Paso de Robles Municipal Code to regulate the control of dogs in public parks and set fines in connection with such conduct; and WHEREAS, the City no longer desires to prevent dogs from being on the grounds of public City parks, or to enforce the seizure and impoundment of all dogs found in public parks; and WHEREAS, the City will continue to abide by all relevant state and local laws relating to animal control.

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL PASO DE ROBLES DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. The City Council hereby finds and declares that all of the Recitals above are true and correct and are incorporated herein by this reference.

Section 2. Section 8.08.055 of the City of El Paso de Robles Municipal Code is hereby repealed and deleted in its entirety.

Section 3. The City Council finds that this Ordinance is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines, §§ 15060, subd. (c)(2)-(3), 15378, because it has no potential for resulting in physical change in the environment, directly or indirectly.

Section 4. If any section, subsection, clause or phrase in this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is for any reason held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this Ordinance or the application of such provisions to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases or the application thereof to any person or circumstance be held invalid.

Section 5. The City Clerk shall certify the adoption of this Ordinance and shall post or publish this Ordinance as required by law.

Section 6. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in full force and effect thirty (30) days from and after the date of its final passage and adoption.

Date: July 25, 2024

Melissa Boyer, City Clerk

INVITATION TO BID (SUB BIDS ONLY)

GENERAL CONTRACTOR: MAINO CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INCORPORATED

PROJECT NAME: CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC STATE UNIVERSITY SAN LUIS OBISPO BUILDING 162F UPPER FIELDS PICKLEBALL AND FUTSAL COURT

CONVERSIONS

PROJECT LOCATION: BLDG. 162F - CAL POLY STATE UNIVERSITY, SLO, CA 93407

PROJECT OWNER: TRUSTEES OF THE CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY

ARCHITECT: HARRIS ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

BID DATE & TIME: THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024@ 12:00 P.M.

PRE-BID SITE REVIEW: MANDATORY – WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 2024 AT 9:00 A.M

ESTIMATE/BUDGET: $300,000

ANTICIPATED SCHEDULE: 3 MONTHS

START DATE: AUGUST 26, 2024

COMPLETION: NOVEMBER 29, 2024

SCOPE OF WORK:

(CONTRACTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR OVERTIME AND WEEKEND WORK ANTICIPATED TO MEET PROJECT SCHEDULE)

Work consists of demolition, site concrete, fencing, court surfacing and striping, athletic equipment, bleachers, benches, small shade furnishings. The University will be performing the following trades: NONE BIDS SHALL BE EMAILED TO: tomm@mainoslo.com and sonnys@mainoslo.com

BID REQUIREMENTS:

1. Subcontractors must be bondable and may be required to provide Payment and Performance Bonds.

2. Bid Bond is not required.

3. Safety Record is of the utmost importance. Subcontractors with aggregate EMR Rate of 1.5 over the past three years may be disqualified.

4. Prevailing Wage TO VIEW PLANS/SPEC:

Plans and specs may be downloaded from ASAP Reprographics at www.asapplanroom.com Plans and specs may also be viewed at the following Builders Exchanges:

- SLO County Builders Exchange – www.slocbe.com

- Santa Maria Valley Contractors Association – www.smvca.org

- Central California Builders Exchange – www.cencalbx.com

Maino Construction Company, Incorporated is an equal opportunity Contractor. It is the responsibility of each Subcontractor to view all pertinent information and documents prior to submitting a proposal.

July 25, 2024

NOTICE INVITATION TO BID

Arroyo Terrace Apartments

700 OAK PARK BLVD, ARROYO GRANDE, CALIFORNIA

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the San Luis Obispo Nonprofit Housing Corporation, referred to herein as “SLONP”, invites the submission of electronic bids for the above stated project to attention: Devon Nicklas at dnicklas@haslo.org by 4:00 p.m. on the 26th day of September, 2024. No hard copies of bid submittals will be accepted. Bid proposals received after the time and date specified above will be considered nonresponsive. SLONP proposes the redevelopment of an existing commercial residence at 700 Oak Park Blvd in the city of Arroyo Grande. Project includes demolition of everything on site, three (3) new multiple-story structures, which will contain sixty-two (62) low-income affordable units, a manager’s unit, a community room, and a commercial space. Project commencement will be no later than, the 2nd day of December, 2024 Digital copies of the plans, specifications, and contract documents are available from SLONP upon written request to dnicklas@haslo.org. In accordance with the provisions of California Public Contract Code § 3300, and Business and Professions Code § 7028.15(e), Contractor shall possess a valid Class B -General Building Contractor license at the time that the contract is awarded. Failure to possess the specified license shall render a bidder’s bid as non-responsive and shall bar award of the contract to any bidder not possessing the specified license at the time of the award. CONTRACTORS ARE REQUIRED BY LAW TO BE LICENSED AND REGULATED BY THE CONTRACTORS’ STATE LICENSE BOARD. ANY QUESTIONS CONCERNING A CONTRACTOR MAY BE REFERRED TO THE REGISTRAR, CONTRACTORS’ STATE LICENSE BOARD, P.O. BOX 2600, SACRAMENTO, CA 95826. At the time the contract is awarded, the contractor shall be properly licensed in accordance with the laws of this state. Contractors who have been debarred or suspended from further participation in HUD procurement and non-procurement programs and other Federal Government programs as evidenced by the “Excluded Parties Listing System” are not eligible to bid. Bids must be prepared on the approved bid forms in conformance with INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS and submitted in a complete digital package to the email address provided.

A payment and performance bond will be required for an amount not less than 100% of the contract value issued by a Surety licensed to do business in the State of California.

SECTION 3 REQUIREMENTS: This is a HUD Section 3 contract, and all bidders/proposers must commit to achieving established requirements, including benchmarks for Section 3 workers and Targeted Section 3 workers. Detailed quarterly reporting of hours worked and documentation of efforts to achieve the benchmarks will be required. SLONP hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, DBE, Women, Minority, Veteran, Disabled Veteran, LGTB Business Enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religious creed, sex, or national origin in consideration for an award.

APPLICABLE LABOR LAWS AND REQUIREMENTS: This is a federally assisted construction contract. State and Federal labor standards provisions outlined in the HUD-4010 form, including the state prevailing wage and the prevailing wage requirements of the Davis-Bacon Act (40 USC, Chapter 3, Section 276a-276a-5; and 29 CFR Parts 1, 3, 5, 6 and 7), Copeland Anti-Kickback Act (40 USC, Chapter 3, Section 276c and 18 USC, Part 1, Chapter 41, Section 874; and 29 CFR Part 3), Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (40 USC, Chapter 5, Sections 326-332; and 29 CFR Part 4, 5, 6 and 8; 29 CFR Part 70 to 240) and Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, as amended, will be enforced. The applicable Federal wage decision is included in the Instruction to Bidders. In the event of a conflict between the Federal and State wage rates, the higher of the two will prevail. The State wage rates are available online at http://www.dir.ca.gov/DLSR/PWD/index.htm. Lower State wage rates for work classifications not specifically included in the Federal wage decision are not acceptable.

SLONP reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

If you have any questions, please contact Devon Nicklas by email, dnicklas@haslo.org END OF INVITATION TO BID July 25, 2024

Free Will Astrology by Rob Brezsny

Homework: What goal would you and your best ally love to pursue together? Newsletter.freewillastrology.com

ARIES

(March 21-April 19): Aries singer-songwriter Lady Gaga has written many songs, both for herself and other artists. She has famously declared that some of her most successful songs took her just 10 minutes to compose. They include “Just Dance,” “Poker Face,” and “Born This Way.” According to my interpretation of the astrological omens, you could be rising to Lady Gaga levels of creativity in your own sphere during the coming weeks. And I won’t be surprised if your imaginative innovations flow with expeditious clarity, like Gaga at her most efficient.

TAURUS

(April 20-May 20): During the winter, some animals hibernate. They enter a state of dormancy, slowing their metabolism, breathing, and heart rate. Other animals enter a similar state during the summer, conserving energy when the weather is hot and dry. It’s called estivation. According to my analysis of the astrological omens, many of you Tauruses would benefit from a modified version of estivation in the next couple of weeks. You’re in prime time to recharge your energy through deep relaxation and rest.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): The English word “amphibian” is derived from the Greek term amphibios, which means “living a double life.” The original meaning of the English word was “combining two qualities; having two modes of life,” though eventually it came to be used primarily to describe animals that function well on both land and in water. You Geminis are of course the most amphibious of all the astrological tribes. You can feel at home in a variety of situations. This may sometimes stir up confusion, but I see it as one of your greatest potential strengths. In the coming weeks, I hope you enjoy it to the maximum. It should serve you well. Wield it to take advantage of the sweet perks of versatility.

CANCER

(June 21-July 22): I dreamed that a young elephant appeared on the back deck of my house and stuck its trunk through the open sliding glass door. I got up from my chair and gently pushed the animal away, then closed the door. But after I woke up, I was sorry I had done that in my dream. What was I afraid of? The elephant posed no danger—and may have been a good omen. In some cultures, elephants in dreams and visions are symbols of good luck, vitality, long life, and the removal of obstacles. So here’s what I did. I dropped into a deep meditative state and reimagined the dream. This time, I welcomed the creature into my home. I gave her the name Beatrice. We wrestled playfully and had fun playing with a red rubber ball. Amazingly, later that day, a certain obstacle in my actual waking life magically disappeared. The moral of the story, my fellow Cancerian: Welcome the elephant.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22): Some bamboo species grow very quickly—as much as 36 inches per day. I suspect your capacity to burgeon and blossom will display a similar vigor in the coming weeks. You may be surprised at how dramatic your development is. I’m hoping, of course, that you will be acutely focused on channeling your fertility in positive ways. Don’t feed an urge to recklessly gamble, for instance. Don’t pursue connections with influences that are no damn good for you. Instead, decide right now what areas of your life you want to be the beneficiaries of your growth spurt. Choose the beauty and power you will encourage to ripen.

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): For months, we heard and saw crows pecking on the roof of our rental house. Why? Were they grubbing for food? It was mildly annoying, but seemingly no big deal. Then one night, their small, regular acts of mayhem climaxed in an unexpected event. Rain began to fall around 8 p.m. It was constant, though not heavy. At 9, the ceilings in five rooms began to leak. By 10:30, our house was flooded. We managed to rescue most of our precious items, but the house was damaged. We had to find a new place to live. I don’t expect anything nearly this drastic to befall you, dear Virgo. But I do encourage you to check to see if any small problem is gradually growing bigger. Now is a favorable time to intervene and forestall an unfavorable development.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Two Scottish veterinarians researched the health of rhesus monkeys that are compelled by human handlers to dance on the streets of Islamabad, Pakistan. When I first learned about this, my response was, “Wow! Don’t those doctors have anything better to do? That is the most obscure research I have ever heard of.” But later, I decided I admired the doctors because they were motivated primarily by compassion. They found the monkeys were under severe stress, and they publicized the fact as a public service. Their work will ultimately lead to better treatment of the monkeys. In accordance with astrological omens, Libra, I advise you to seek out comparable ways to express altruism in the coming weeks. By engaging in noble and idealistic acts, you will attract good fortune into your sphere both for yourself and others.

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Do you place any limits on how deep and expansive you allow your yearnings to be? Are you ever worried that maybe you desire too much and are at risk of asking for too much? If you answered yes to those questions, Scorpio, I will give you a temporary license to rebel against your wariness. In accordance with astrological rhythms, I authorize you to experiment with feeling the biggest, strongest, wildest longings you have ever felt. Please note that I am not advising you to immediately go out and actually express those longings to the hilt. For now, I’d like you to simply have the experience of entertaining their full intensity. This will be a healing experience.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You will never guess the identity of the strongest animal on the planet. It’s not the gorilla, tiger, or elephant. It’s the dung beetle, which can lug loads that weigh 1,141 times as much as it does. The equivalent for you would be to pull six double-decker buses crammed with people. I’m happy to inform you that although you won’t be able to accomplish that feat in the coming weeks, your emotional and spiritual strength will be formidable. You may be surprised at how robust and mighty you are. What do you plan to do with all that power?

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): By age 35, you have already shed over 50 pounds of skin. The flesh that covers you is in a constant state of renewal. In the coming weeks, I expect your rate of regeneration to be even higher than usual—not only in regard to your skin, but everything else in your life, as well. Here’s a proviso: Renewal and regeneration are always preceded by withering or dwindling. To enjoy the thrill of revitalization, you must allow the loss of what was once vital but is no longer.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Among people who go hiking a lot, “death march” is a term that refers to a long trudge through boring scenery in bad weather. Let’s use this as a metaphor for your life. I believe you have recently finished your own metaphorical version of a “death march.” Any minute now, you will begin a far more enjoyable series of experiences. Get ready for an entertaining meander through interesting terrains in fine weather. Be alert for unpredictable encounters with inspiration and education.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20): Alex Larenty gives massages to lions at the Lion Park near Johannesburg, South Africa. They especially love foot rubs. Even Jamu, king of the local beasts, rolls onto his back so Larenty can get a good angle while caressing and kneading his paws. I bring this to your attention, Pisces, because it’s a good metaphor for the unique power you will have in the coming days: a knack for dealing successfully with wild influences and elemental powers through the magic of kindness, affection, and service. ∆

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