New Times, July 13, 2023

Smoky fields

BY BULBUL

As wildfire seasons grow more intense, West Coast elected officials want to help vineyards and wineries deal with the impact [8]

RAJAGOPAL

Editor’s note

We still don’t understand quite how wildfire smoke impacts wine grapes, but a pair of bills aims to change that. U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) teamed up with fellow West Coast elected officials to introduce federal legislation that would fund research and develop a wildfire-related wine grape crop insurance program. Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal speaks with the California Association of Winegrape Growers to understand the potential impacts in SLO County [8]

This week, you can also read about Cambria residents, stymied development, and water woes [10], a quack of a time at SLO Rep [37], and a cookie dough purveyor with a new SLO spot [42].

Camillia Lanham editor

1010 MARSH STREET, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93401

805/546-8208 FAX 805/546-8641

SHREDDER shredder@newtimesslo.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@newtimesslo.com

EVENTS CALENDAR calendar@newtimesslo.com

ADVERTISING advertising@newtimesslo.com classifieds@newtimesslo.com

WWW.NEWTIMESSLO.COM

Website powered by Foundation www.publishwithfoundation.com

FOUNDER

Steve Moss 1948-2005

PUBLISHERS

Bob Rucker, Alex Zuniga

EDITOR

Camillia Lanham

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Andrea Rooks

CALENDAR EDITOR

Caleb Wiseblood

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Glen Starkey

STAFF WRITERS

Bulbul Rajagopal, Adrian Vincent Rosas

EDITORIAL INTERN

Thomas Rodda

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jayson Mellom

EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

Leni Litonjua, Taylor Saugstad

ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER

Eva Lipson

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Eva Lipson, Ellen Fukumoto, Ikey Ipekjian, Mary Grace Flaus

SALES MANAGER

Katy Gray

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Kimberly Rosa, Lee Ann Vermeulen, Andrea McVay

MARKETING & PROMOTIONS COORDINATOR

Michael Gould

BUSINESS DEPARTMENT

Cindy Rucker

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

Michael Antonette

OFFICE MANAGER

Patricia Horton

OFFICE ASSISTANT/ACCOUNT MANAGER

Rebeca Santander

CONTRIBUTORS

Russell Hodin, Rob Brezsny, Anna Starkey, Andrew Christie, John Donegan, Cherish Whyte, John Ashbaugh

CIRCULATION

Jim Chaney

DISTRIBUTION

Tom Falconer, Dennis Flately, Edward Barnett, John Jiminenz, Bernadette 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.

We hope readers will use their own good judgment in choosing products most beneficial to their well-being.

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.

©2023 New Times

Dan DeVaul objects to first report filed by receivership group

Evictions and water wells became major talking points in San Luis Obispo Superior Court as negotiations brewed between county officials and Sunny Acres’ founder Dan DeVaul’s lawyer.

On July 11, DeVaul attorney Matt Janowicz, Assistant County Counsel Jon Ansolabehere, and the president of the California Receivership Group, Mark Adams, deliberated over DeVaul’s objection to the receiver’s preliminary observations of the Los Osos Valley Road property. The negotiation is part of the plan of action to fix the slew of code violations that have plagued the Sunny Acres property for years.

“It appears that Sunny Acres is housing more people than is permitted in the program and more than can be properly housed and are otherwise living on the property unlawfully,” the July 10 objection read. “The removal of these people would lessen the water needs, among other things.”

The document added that Sunny Acres—the sober living facility that takes up half of the 72-acre property owned by DeVaul—hasn’t paid rent in two years and is in breach of its lease. The rent Sunny Acres owes to DeVaul is based on the number of participants enrolled in the sober living program, according to the objection statement. It alleged that Sunny Acres management is reluctant to share the true number of people living on-site.

“[The] eviction of Sunny Acres as well as the inhabitants unlawfully living on the property would correct the violations cited by the county regarding people living in inhabitable structures,” the objection stated.

However, two members of program management told New Times that they have been blocked from accessing the Sunny Acres bank account, affecting rent payment.

“The objection reads as desperation from Dan,” program manager David Dieter said prior to the court meeting.

Ansolabehere also came to the participants’ defense during the session. He claimed that DeVaul created the “situation” that caused code violations, and the process of fixing them should be geared toward minimizing the impact to the participants while also providing services for them through organizations like Restorative Partners.

“The property owner used those individuals as a shield against the county’s health and safety laws,” Ansolabehere told presiding Judge Rita Federman. “It’s a little disingenuous to flippantly ask the court to remove them.”

The California Receivership

Group’s initial July 6 report, based on the declarations of its project manager Pierce Harper and construction manager Chris Bolton, also nails down the number of Sunny Acres participants.

“Mr. Dieter advises that they often house as many as 50 men on-site but now only have 40, and he is not admitting anyone else while things get ‘figured out,’” the report stated. “Of these 40 men, roughly 10 are sex offenders under penal code 290 and are reportedly complying with the probation department and local law enforcement requirements.”

Judge Federman also expressed surprise at Janowicz and DeVaul’s focus on evicting participants. Janowicz defended their suggestion.

“Does the property owner have to foot the bill for all those individuals when the program is not functioning as intended?” he asked.

Janowicz went on to ask for better communication with DeVaul’s side going forward. He suggested that the California Receivership Group keep him in the loop on its plans to fix the code violations. So far, according to him, the receivership group has only spoken with Cherisse Sweeney—the person whom DeVaul transferred power of attorney to.

“It would be helpful for me to be involved … to inform the property owner [about the plans] clearly moving forward,” Janowicz said.

Federman agreed to having the attorney included in future communications.

The receiver’s first report calls for an initial cleanout of the property and an environmental test to take place. The California Receivership Group has already received bids of $7,425 for the cleanout from 2 Mexicans LLC and $3,100 for the environmental test from Haro Inc. The appointment order for the receiver from the court authorized $50,000 as an initial fund to stem those costs.

But Janowicz and DeVaul opposed another item in the receiver’s report: the two water wells that exist on the property. The old well is contaminated with E. coli and nitrates, and a new well was drilled. “Why then is time and resources being spent on a well that is already known to be contaminated?” the objection read. “The efforts, if any, should be focused on the new well that was drilled to provide clean water and connecting to the structure.” However, Ansolabehere said that the old, contaminated well is close to the building in which participants live, making it a point of interest. The new well, though, is 1,000 feet away and still needs trenching. Since the new well can’t be drawn for drinking water, yet, participants are continuing to use bottled water.

The concerned parties will regroup with an updated report on Aug. 15.

“There does seem to be [a way] that can account for everyone’s interest,” Adams from the receivership group said at the meeting. “I do see a path here, but I can’t tell you what that is.” ∆

—Bulbul Rajagopal

Paso school board criticized for prolonged discussions about ‘divisive’ topics

After a third review at its July 11 meeting, the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District (PRJUSD) board decided it needed more legal clarification before finalizing its flag placement policy for school grounds.

“As soon as we get the legal advice, our goal is to bring it back as soon as possible,” Superintendent Curt Debost said at the meeting.

Since June 13, the PRJUSD school board has been

reviewing its flag policy for classrooms, following concerns levied by community members and board member Kenney Enney over the placement of Pride flags inside district classrooms.

But the length of time it’s taking to finalize district policy and ongoing debate among board members—including another discussion sparked on July 11 through a motion from board member Dorian Baker—have garnered criticism from local community members and parents.

“At last night’s PRJUSD meeting, Trustee Baker tried to modify the language of a board policy about Ceremonies and Observances in a way that

would prevent any flag other than the U.S. and California Flag from being displayed in classrooms,” Tracy Dauterman told New Times. “Fortunately, the motion was voted down and the issue tabled, but this is the third reading of policy, which barely mentions flags.”

Dauterman is one of multiple parents who have voiced their concern and fatigue over continued political debates occurring not just in the Paso school district, but in school districts across the United States.

PUSHBACK Sunny Acres sober living program leaders Joseph Kurtzman (left) and David Dieter (right) attended the July 11 negotiations to fix code violations attached to founder Dan DeVaul. Dieter labeled DeVaul’s call for participant evictions desperate.

FILE PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM

“Divisive topics such as gender identity, the display of Pride flags, book challenges, [critical race theory] hysteria are manufactured crises intended to create chaos and divide communities,” Dauterman said. “None of these discussions make children safer at schools nor do these tactics result in improved academic performance.”

Superintendent Dubost said that he intends to have a formal change ready for the board to vote on prior to the Aug. 17 start to the school year to ensure the policy can be properly understood and enforced before students return to campus to avoid further classroom controversy.

Dauterman and other parents argue that continued discussion about district flag policy will only lead to uncomfortable and unsafe environments at district schools.

“These actions result in uncomfortable work environments for teachers and administrators, angry parents and community members, and they single out a small group of students and put them at the risk of bullying or worse,” she said. “Now, [the flag policy] will be brought up again in one of the August meetings— likely drawing a large crowd of community members to comment on why they are for or against a limit on flags.”

Ultimately, Dauterman and her group are most concerned about the effect this will have on who they consider to be the most important group in the district should it continue to drag out—the students.

“I am frustrated at the board members who choose party politics time and time again, to the detriment of our teachers, administrators, parents, community, and students,” she said. “It’s supposed to be about the students.”

—Adrian

Rosas

SLO County supervisors authorize state grant for homeless housing

San Luis Obispo County now has a blueprint for how to spend a $13.4 million state grant it received to alleviate homelessness.

Twenty-two California communities became recipients of the $199 million Encampment Resolution Fund on June 14. SLO County’s award was the third largest allocation given to a county, after Los Angeles and San Diego counties, underscoring its position as having the third largest percentage of unsheltered residents nationwide compared to other communities of its size.

The $13.4 million fund will finance the

Welcome Home Village shelter project on county-provided land in the form of a gravel lot behind the Department of Social Services headquarters on Higuera Street in SLO. The shelter space will include 80 beds using modules from a company called LifeArk that builds sustainable and affordable homes for low-income and marginalized communities. The proposed village will rotate roughly 200 people living in encampments along the Bob Jones Trail once it starts accepting participants next March, aiming to eventually move them into permanent housing.

However, the grant comes with a risk: time.

It’s supposed to expire in three years, leaving SLO County to identify other funding streams if it wishes to sustain the Welcome Home Village from fiscal year 2027-28 and beyond. Homeless Services Division Manager Joe Dzvonik told the Board of Supervisors on July 11 that projected annual ongoing costs from that fiscal year onward are expected to be almost $2 million, which includes the bills for operational costs, encampment cleanup, outreach services, and administrative costs.

“An important part of my job is to make sure we don’t overcommit ourselves to future projects only to have them disassembled as quickly as we build them due to a lack of funding and support,” he said at the meeting.

Dzvonik has fledgling plans for risk mitigation. He suggested building a budget at the county level to stem costs later when the $13.4 million budget is used up. His plans deal with balancing the investment with expanding street outreach and prevention efforts to slowly draw down the rate of homelessness. Next month, Dzvonik will present funding strategies to the supervisors for a homeless management information system overhaul.

“This is required to properly monitor the effectiveness of projects such as this and use this improved clarity regarding the posture of homelessness overall to better focus our operations, more clearly articulate our needs, so we can receive even more grant money like the $13.4 million we’re discussing today,” he said.

But 5th District Supervisor Debbie Arnold remained concerned and wanted staff to identify concrete sources of future funds.

“I would like to hear a better idea. Help me with where else we can go, maybe even bake it into the cake,” she said. “If there are no grants and all of a sudden we’re in 2026 with a deficit budget, … do you have monies we can say for certain this is where we can go [when grant expires]?”

Department of Social Services Director

Devin Drake stepped in to clarify that the future of such projects has always been opaque given the state’s funding scheme. He added that he’s discussed the potential of adding a line item in the state budget for solving homelessness with 2nd District Supervisor Bruce Gibson through the latter’s involvement with the California State Association of Counties.

“This is a constant that we work with under homelessness,” Drake said. “It’s always grant-based.”

The Board of Supervisors ultimately authorized the allocation agreement in a 5-0 vote on July 11, green-lighting the process of transitioning homeless residents out of one of the largest encampments in SLO County.

—Bulbul Rajagopal

Atascadero breaks ground on first of multiple summer public works projects

With the Via Avenue Bridge officially breaking ground during the last week of June, locals and visitors may find themselves impacted by road closures as the city of Atascadero begins its efforts to revamp its downtown core.

“The city has an experienced contractor and construction management team working closely to complete the project on time and budget,” Ryan Hayes said. “We are looking forward to the successful completion of this important project.”

The Atascadero Deputy Director of Public Works expects the $2.2 million bridge project to take until at least mid-November of this year, meaning residents and visitors will have to find an alternate route over Atascadero Creek.

Act now!

“The currently signed detour route is an approximately 1.3-mile detour via Capistrano Avenue, west Mall, Olmeda Avenue, and Traffic Way,” Hayes said. “Other detour routes are available but given the relatively low volume of traffic utilizing the route, significant impacts are not expected.”

This project is just one of multiple projects the city has designated for 2023 with the goal of bolstering crucial infrastructure needs related to a lack of historical upkeep.

The other two summer projects include the Downtown District Paving Project, and the 2023 F-14 Pavement Rehabilitation Project which are both expected to begin sometime in July and finish in December of this year with similar processes.

The Via Avenue Bridge has been prioritized as the first to break ground as it was built in 1948 and, according to Hayes, has effectively become unusable.

“The existing bridge had been classified as structurally deficient and functionally obsolete due to its narrow width,” Hayes said. “The new bridge will address these conditions … with sufficient width for vehicle travel lanes, as well as accommodating bicyclists on the shoulders and a sidewalk for pedestrians.”

Hayes said the city had to take into account multiple environmental and structural factors in designing and planning the new bridge.

“Some of the key considerations during the design planning phase included the hydrology of the Atascadero Creek watershed … and geometrical configuration—as the new bridge is on a curved alignment,” he said. “[We also] took into consideration environmental resources protection during construction, post-construction stormwater treatment, and maintaining access to neighboring residences and businesses.”

Hayes noted that while Atascadero isn’t unfamiliar with construction projects of this magnitude and complexity, it is the first project in a long time to make use of as many resources and funding sources in nearly a decade.

“These are moderately sized bridge projects, similar in complexity to some of the city’s other recent facility projects,” he said. “It has, however, been over a decade since the last bridge project was completed and the federal funding element we had with this project adds significantly to the timeline and administrative complexity.”

He expressed gratitude for the combined efforts of city staff and residents in making sure that these infrastructure projects can be undertaken as smoothly as possible and is excited for the future of the city.

“The city has been able to concurrently design and construct the Via Avenue Bridge and Santa Lucia Road Bridge, with efficiencies gained by working on both projects simultaneously,” Hayes said. “The city has been very fortunate to have an excellent design consultant team that has managed this project from the start of construction and incredible support from the local staff at Caltrans, neighboring residents, and business owners who have been willing to work with the city.” ∆

—Adrian Rosas

IS YOUR REFRIGERATOR RUNNING?

Good, it helped fund an electric bus.

If you live in the Central Coast, you probably get your electricity from 3CE. We’re a not-for-profit group of community members with the mission to use power for good. Which is why we’re reinvesting in our community by helping schools purchase electric buses. And all you have to do is keep your refrigerator running.

Grape guardians

Sen. Alex Padilla introduced two bills that aim to research wildfire smoke damage on wine grapes in SLO County and the West Coast

Three West Coast senators introduced two pieces of legislation that aim to understand one nascent problem: the impact of wildfire smoke on wine grapes.

On June 22, Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) brought forward the Smoke Exposure Research Act, co-led by Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon), and the Crop Insurance for Wine Grapes Act, co-led by Sen. Patty Murray (D-Washington) and U.S. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-Washington).

Despite the flurry of wildfires that have ravaged wine countries in California, Oregon, and Washington since 2020, the impact of the resulting smoke on wine grapes and the extent of its damage are relatively foggy. In California alone, a little more than 9,900 wildfires burned 4.3 million acres in 2020, according to a UC Davis wildfire season report. That total is more than twice the previous record number of acres burned in the state. The 2020 wildfires cost California wine grape growers and wineries $3.7 billion from immediate fire-related causes and subsequent loss in future sales because of unharvested grapes exposed to the smoke.

“We haven’t really been able to figure out exactly how much smoke needs to be present in one area for it to really affect grapes, so we have a little bit of work to do on the research side,” Natalie Collins, the president of the California Association of Winegrape Growers, told New Times on July 6.

The association calls itself the only statewide organization that specializes in wine grape grower issues. It’s governed by 27 growers elected to serve on its board, and according to Collins, the group has been involved with Padilla’s office since 2022 to discuss the legislation.

“We pitched the idea of selective buy-up coverage or an endorsement for wildfires, and we based this off something already in existence on the East Coast,” she said.

Collins is referring to the second piece of Padilla’s proposed legislation that pertains to crop insurance. The wine grape association drew inspiration from the Hurricane Insurance Protection-Wind Index. It covers 70 different crops and caters to counties in the vicinity of the Gulf of Mexico and

the Atlantic and Hawaii. Collins said that the hurricane protection plan allows its subscribers to “buy up” to a higher level of insurance once the wind index meets a certain threshold. The association applied similar logic to the crop insurance blueprint for Padilla’s legislation.

“Growers would have their normal crop insurance, and on top of that they can buy up coverage or get an endorsement for wildfire smoke,” Collins said. “What this legislation is really doing is having the risk management agency do more research and see what that policy would look like.”

Researchers committed to the bills have viticulture expertise, and some of them belong to UC Davis, Washington State University, and Oregon State University— the three land-grant universities that will coordinate with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service if the legislation passes.

Green-lighting the Smoke Exposure Research Act would commit $32.5 million to the researchers over a five-year period to ensure the sustainability of the wine industry and study the effects of climate change on the industry.

“Congress has provided $5 million to the USDA to study smoke taint since fiscal year 2020,” the bill’s summary reads. “However, this research has never been formally authorized and instead relies upon annual appropriations and report language each year.”

The danger of wildfires on wine grapes is a new California problem. Wine grapes are usually harvested between August and October—a period that falls right inside the state’s May through October fire season. Though, according to Frontline Wildfire Defense, some experts suggest that wildfires are now a year-long issue because of climate change. Wildfire smoke’s damage to wine grapes wasn’t on the public or political radar as much until 2020.

“We just didn’t know the great impact of wildfires here in California,” Collins said. “There have been other countries like Australia who have experienced wildfires in the past and they’ve been doing research. But here, 2020 was the first big wildfire hit where

we discovered the impact wildfires have on grapes, and in turn, the finished wine.”

One of those discoveries is smoke taint: Smoke compounds from wildfires enter the thin skins of exposed grapes, resulting in an ashy taste that’s especially prominent once the affected grapes are fermented to make wine.

Wildfire smoke is measured in the air using the air quality index (AQI). While preliminary research focused on AQI, Collins said that other factors are also thrown in the mix when assessing smoke impact and studying smoke taint prevention.

“It could be on how long the AQI or smoke is at that level, is the wind blowing and is it moving the smoke through, how low is the smoke sitting on the grape?” Collins said. “There are so many varietals of grapes. Some have thicker skins than others, some mature at a different time period.”

Smoke taint became a problem for SLO County’s grapes in 2020, California Association of Winegrape Growers Co-Vice Chair Gregg Hibbits who represents SLO, told New Times

“There were grapes that were rejected in SLO County that probably shouldn’t have been based on how much smoke taint they had, but the reason for the rejection was unquestionably that wineries believed that there were smoke compounds in the grapes,” he said.

According to SLO County’s 2021 Annual Crop Report, the region produced 133,281 tons of wine grapes in 2020. The next year, it produced 166,473 tons, with an increase of $63 million over the 2020 value.

Hibbits hopes that the crop insurance part of the legislation will buttress financial protection for local wine grape growers dealing with smoke taint losses. He added that the problem with crop insurance in its current form is that it’s specifically designed to only pay growers

back for crops that are not harvested.

“The hard thing with smoke taint is if you’re not sure whether the grapes are impacted and you pick them, at that point the winery says the wine is no good,” Hibbits said. “There isn’t a good process for crop insurance to deal with that specific situation.”

Collins agreed. She told New Times that the West Coast faced such large-scale wine grape damage because growers couldn’t test their produce fast enough during the 2020 wildfire season. The short window for picking coupled with a series of fires compelled growers to leave the fruit on the vine for much longer.

“You leave on the vine too much longer and if it’s hot out, they’re gonna continue to ripen and get higher sugars,” Collins said.

“The longer you leave them on the vine being exposed to smoke, there is a higher probability of grapes getting damaged.”

She added that the main goal of the research is to limit who really needs to test their wine grapes. Typically, wineries visit the vineyards they want to purchase grapes from and conduct on-site tests, checking for sugar levels measured in Brix, greenness, and maturity, among other requirements. Before 2020, in a scenario without the impact of wildfire smoke, it took 24 hours to test the grapes and get the results. Collins thinks tests are quicker now, but during the harvest period in 2020 growers experienced weekslong testing delays.

“The next step in research is getting the tools in the vineyard so that growers are able to test on their own—getting market ready products so you can test grapes and wine in the vineyard,” Collins said. ∆

Reach Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal at brajagopal@newtimesslo.com.

TAINTED? New federal legislation introduced by a trio of West Coast senators aims to help vineyards and wineries affected by wildfires.

LOSE 2-4 INCHES OF STUBBORN FAT IN AS LITTLE AS 3 WEEKS

CAMILLIA LANHAM

Water watchers

CAN SAFELY SHRINK FAT CELLS IN:

Since 2016, Christine Heinrichs has watched for new development in Cambria, challenging any project that she believes might aggravate one of the town’s scarcest resources.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Laser energy safely penetrates and targets excess skin and fat cells. After a few minutes, pores form on the fat cell surface releasing water, sugar, and free fatty acids into the circulatory system to diminish fat cells.

WHO CAN USE IT?

Lipo Laser is perfect for ALL body types when combined with appropriate levels of exercise and a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle.

“I just kind of watchdog those permits. The thing is, if no one appeals them at the local level, they just go through as approved,” Heinrichs told New Times. “I just think it’s crazy to keep on adding new users when, obviously, we don’t have adequate water.”

She believes that the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) and San Luis Obispo County are rubber stamping development that the California Coastal Commission has repeatedly stated Cambria doesn’t have the water supply to serve. According to data from the SLO County Planning and Building Department, Heinrichs has appealed five projects to the SLO County Board of Supervisors since 2019. Supervisors heard three of those appeals on July 11, upheld the project approvals, and denied the appeals.

“The county’s position is if Cambria says they have water and approves this, then they take their word for it,” Heinrichs told New Times. “Even though they know perfectly well that Cambria doesn’t have water. … It’s just absolutely crystal clear that they should not be doing this, and yet they continue to do it.”

The developments under appeal on July 11 consisted of changes to existing single-family homes, projects which Heinrichs alleged were building accessory dwelling units (ADUs) that would create new and increased water use from the respective properties. At the Coastal Commission’s behest, SLO County amended its local coastal plan in April to explicitly outlaw the development of new ADUs in Cambria and Los Osos due to water supply issues.

County Project Manager Nicole Ellis told the board that staff didn’t consider any of the projects to be ADUs and didn’t believe that any of the projects would increase the water use of the respective properties. One would construct an attached garage, bedroom, and bathroom to an existing single-family home; one would renovate within the existing footprint of a single-family home to add a bedroom and bathroom; and one would add a detached guesthouse, garage, and deck to to a single-family home.

“The planning department hearing officer did not authorize an ADU or secondary dwelling unit,” Ellis said. “Our department recognizes the severity of the water supply shortage in Cambria.”

The planning department reached out to the CCSD, Ellis said, to get data on the average number of persons per household, the average number of bedrooms and bathrooms in Cambria’s current housing stock, and the average supply of water those homes use. The projects, she said, fall within those averages, and so are not expected to increase water use from any of the homes.

Kathy Barnes, who applied to construct an attached garage, bedroom, and bathroom, said she and her husband have owned their property for 25 years, raised their children there, and were now caring for her ailing and increasingly immobile father—who is living in a small pass-through room between levels of the house. The new space, she told the board, would be used to accommodate current and future needs and make it easier for her father to access everything from a single floor of the home.

“We’re not going to go to the bathroom anymore than we do now,” Barnes said during the hearing. “I hope that you’ll let us move forward with this, and I hope that this will be the end of the appeal.”

Heinrichs responded by saying she was touched by the Barnes’ story and sympathized with the needs of their family.

“Unfortunately, Cambria’s water is finite,” she told the board. “This is a discussion between agencies at this point.”

Earlier in the hearing, she referred to a letter that the Coastal Commission’s Central Coast District director sent to the county planning department in April 2022. Commission staff responded to New Times’ request for comment by sending the very same letter, which staff said highlights the commission’s view of development in Cambria.

“The project before us is not an accessory dwelling unit, it’s not an ADU, it’s not even close to an ADU,” Gibson said of the Barnes’ project. There is “ample evidence that it does not intensify water use.”

Heinrichs was not alone in appealing two of the projects, which Cambria resident Elizabeth Bettenhausen also appealed, stating some of the same concerns that Heinrichs had about the town’s existing water supply. Cambria’s water supply “is inadequate and unreliable,” she told the board on July 11.

“The CSD holds that if you have a water meter, you have a right to the water. That is the basic premise on both permits before you. … This is a big assertion,” Bettenhausen said. “They make these decisions as if water will flow down like a river forever.”

Act now!

Send

“There is insufficient water supply to serve even existing development in Cambria without coastal resource harm, let alone new water development,” Central Coast District Director Dan Carl wrote, adding that the commission had denied coastal development permits for each of the previous four singlefamily residential projects approved by the county that relied on the CCSD for water. “We respectfully request that you not file any more [coastal development permit] applications for such proposed development unless and until the water supply situation changes in Cambria and there is an adequate/sustainable water supply.”

Second District Supervisor Bruce Gibson, whose district includes Cambria, pushed back against Heinrichs’ use of the letter— which he said was written with regard to brand new development and “misrepresented as something applicable to this”—and her characterization of the projects that went before the board on July 11.

In the April 2022 letter, Carl specifies that the commission believes small home additions and renovations are unlikely to increase water use on a property, but that applicants should be required to demonstrate it with “actual evidence.”

Past SLO County-approved developments in Cambria—such as an affordable housing project proposed by People’s Self-Help Housing in 2019—have been appealed to the Coastal Commission by Heinrichs, other town residents, and even sitting commissioners. While People’s SelfHelp Housing’s project eventually received the green light, the commission has upheld the appeals of most of those projects, specifically ones that required new water service from the CCSD.

Heinrichs told New Times that Cambria’s situation is tenuous, with increased water extraction from Santa Rosa and San Simeon creeks carrying the potential to cause seawater intrusion, among other adverse impacts.

“Believe me, doing this does not make one popular in town,” Heinrichs said, adding that the CCSD has a dozen ways it promises water to new developments. “It’s paper water, and you know, it’s just subterfuge for allowing development.” ∆

Reach Editor Camillia Lanham at clanham@newtimesslo.com.

172 Station Way, Arroyo Grande ArroyoGrandeChiropractic.com

Se Habla Español

Cambria citizens keep an eye out for development they believe is detrimental to their water supply

APPEALED DEVELOPMENT Many of the development projects proposed in Cambria eventually get appealed to the California Coastal Commission due to water issues, which happened with a People’s Self-Help Housing project in 2019. Although the affordable housing development depicted in this rendering was eventually approved, the project has yet to break ground.

Adventure buddy

Transitioning from spring to summer on the Central Coast usually means more warm weather, days at the beach, and nights in front of a bonfire.

But it also means more puppies and kittens, and no group has been more impacted by the seasonal burst of animal youth than adult dogs.

“Whenever someone adopts an adult dog, it frees up space for the new incoming dogs to take at kennels and shelters,” Emily L’Heureux said. “We just had another huge kitten season, and last spring was also a huge puppy season so we need as much help as we can get in finding these adult dogs a home.”

L’Heureux, who serves as the CEO of Woods Humane Society, said that her organization is running a special promotion to help around 100 adult dogs find forever homes.

“Any adult dog—which starts at 5 months through the rest of the dog’s life—will be part of this pick-your-own-price promotion from July 7 to July 17,” she said. “People can choose what they want to give, but our goal is to encourage people to come and find their new best friend.”

L’Heureux clarified that this means people can give as much or as little as they want and only have to pay for the SLO County dog license, which costs around $30 and includes

the rabies shot that is required.

“Typically, our adult dog adoption price is $150, so this is a really good opportunity for anyone to come in who maybe has thought of getting a dog but might have been worried about the cost,” she said.

Founded in 1955, Woods is a privately funded nonprofit animal sheltering and welfare organization that annually places upward of 3,000 dogs and cats into loving homes.

“We can’t work where we work and not end up being an adopter ourselves,” she said. “A couple of years ago I adopted this 95-pound adult Doberman mix and he is so perfect and excellent that it really has reaffirmed my faith in helping adult dogs find homes.”

New canine companions adopted via the promotion—which are already spayed and neutered—will also get a free health check at a local pet clinic and receive a small bag of dog food to get things off the ground.

“We want to make the process of adoption as easy for the new families as possible,” she said. “So with everything we are providing, we will also have a small retail station that will have leashes and toys available for purchase.”

Woods currently has a wide range of breeds available for adoption under this promotion including pugs, chihuahuas,

huskies, American bulldogs, German shepherds, and more.

“If you want to come in and pay $5 for a husky, by all means please do so,” L’Heureux said. “With how overwhelmed the shelters are these days, we need all the adopter support we can get to find these dogs a home.”

Traditionally, Woods sees people prioritize adopting puppies, but there are benefits to adopting adult dogs, according to L’Heureux.

“Adults dogs have better attitudes and longer attention spans—not to malign puppies because there is nothing cuter than a puppy,” she said with a chuckle. “But there is something nice about knowing the dog has a developed personality and can easily learn commands— which isn’t easy to do with puppies.”

She’s hopeful that with this event’s potential success, Woods can explore other

opportunities later in the year similar to this promotion. However, she did stress that like anything in the animal shelter world, their focus is to be reactive to the needs of the community around them first and foremost.

“We are always trying to be creative in how we find homes for whatever group of animals it is we need to assist, whether that’s dogs or cats,” L’Heureux said. “We have several more events like this planned but they are more reactive events based on the needs at the time.”

In the end, her goal and the goal of the Woods Humane Society of finding these dogs a home will give the new families a true companion to take along with them through life.

“We do want this to be like, ‘Hey now’s the time to come pick out your adventure buddy’” L’Heureux said. “Whatever your adventure might be—whether that is going for a hike and exploring nature or staying inside and curling up on the couch—no matter what, there is a dog out there for you.”

Fast fact

•The U.S. Small Business Administration announced that residents affected by the winter storms this year will be able to apply for SBA Disaster Assistance loans. Homeowners can receive up to $240,000, renters can receive up to $40,000, and businesses and nonprofit organizations can receive up to $2 million in assistance. For more information on how to apply and the interest rates on the loan, visit sba.gov. ∆

Reach Staff Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas at arosas@newtimesslo.com.

FOREVER FRIEND Adult dogs (like Monch, pictured here) are readily available to be anyone’s next adventure buddy thanks to the special promotion running from July 7 to 17.

What’s Your Take?

DAWN ADDIS

Protect progress

It is our responsibility to ensure inclusivity for all

As a mom, a teacher, and your state Assembly representative, it is my honor and my duty to serve in a way that fosters safe, affirming, and inclusive communities. It is my job to make sure our laws and our budget do the same.

For a democracy to thrive, it is essential that all people—not just some people— receive the respect, appreciation, and opportunities they deserve.

Tragically, LGBTQIA-plus children and adults experience the dehumanizing effects of bullying, suicide, sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, lack of health care, and being unhoused at higher rates than others. A wave of assaults on transgender youth on school campuses has left many students

BY MARGIE SLIVINSKE

and families afraid in places they should feel the safest—our institutions of learning. These experiences are often exacerbated for LGBTQIA-plus people of color and those who are undocumented, have lower incomes, or live in rural communities.

I am proud to say that the California Legislature has the backs of the LGBTQIAplus community. In the Legislature, my colleagues and I are working to pass legislation that continues to uplift and protect LGBTQIA-plus children and adults.

This includes codifying the right to samesex marriage in the California Constitution (ACA 5), providing educators with tools and training to support LGBTQIA-plus students (AB 5), ensuring health insurance policies

‘Sisyphean’ but necessary

Iam submitting my response to John Donegan’s opinion piece, “Predictable outcomes 2.0,” published in the July 6 edition of New Times.

I realize that opinions aren’t necessarily based on facts, but you take that to a new level in your column, which is primarily based on your guesses and unfounded “predictions.” You admit that you’re just “guessing” that the $13.4 million awarded to SLO to relocate 200 homeless people “will be spent on providing them with rental housing, probably hotel rooms, until the money runs out.” You don’t know this, or anything factual about how these funds will be used, and yet you’re saying it’s not a solution but rather a waste of taxpayer money.

You blatantly contradict yourself when you first infer that all homeless people are drug addicts, alcoholics, and non-functioning individuals then turn around in the next paragraph and say, “many of the homeless are pretty mobile and can make rational decisions in obtaining necessities like food and a place to live.” So which is it? Are all homeless people under the influence and/or mentally nonfunctioning, or are they functioning people capable of making rational decisions about food and housing?

Simply because you describe fighting homelessness as a “Sisyphean task,” doesn’t mean that we do nothing. You know what are also considered examples of “Sisyphean tasks”? Parenting, commuting to work every day, keeping a clean house, washing dishes, ironing clothes, for just a few. Simply because those are never-ending, mostly thankless, or unrewarding tasks, aka “Sisyphean,” doesn’t mean we stop doing them.

provided to Californians include coverage for gender-affirming care (AB 1432), making sure institutions bear responsibility for ending childhood sexual assault (AB 452), providing security grant funding to nonprofits that are at high risk of violent attacks or hate crimes (AB 1185), and much, much more.

This legislation is the product of the most diverse state Legislature in U.S. history. California is the first state to have an openly LGBTQIA-plus state Senate leader, and the first in our nation to reach parity for LGBTQIA-plus people—10 percent in both the California Legislature and the general population. The intersex-inclusive Pride progress flag hangs in the Capitol rotunda to celebrate Pride Month.

While we have made progress, division and violence often leave us in despair, and laws alone will not create the society we want. It is up to each of us to make a difference. There is no shortage of ways to do this.

It starts with listening to the LGBTQIAplus community, then taking action to create real and meaningful structural change. Collectively, we must continue to show up, speak up, vote, run for office, and remain vigilant in protecting the progress we have made. It is our responsibility to ensure inclusivity for all, not just a selected few. Today, our democracy is both as fragile and resilient as it has ever been, because the people in it are both as under attack and as strong as they have been for generations. Together we must work for the LGBTQIAplus community, and our democracy as a whole, so that all people can experience the safe and affirming environment that each of us deserves to live and thrive in. ∆

Dawn Addis was elected to the California State Assembly in 2022 to represent the 30th Assembly District. Send a response for publication to letters@newtimesslo.com.

COMMENTARY LETTERS

Cayucos deserves better

After enduring another several days of loud, rude, drunken people from afar visiting this little town for the glorious Fourth of July parade and fireworks, it might be time for the city to re-think this entire endeavor.

around (if possible) and from the perspective that you will soon leave this world in a state of condition that your parents would be horrified to see.

I agree with you that funds earmarked to help the homeless situation are funds that come from our taxes simply because that’s how it works in this country. That’s not news to anyone. And maybe as taxpayers, we might be “entitled to a more long-lasting fix” to this problem. Of course it is “in our own interests to spend this money wisely.”

But you know who else’s best interests it’s in? The homeless. There will always be homeless people, for many reasons. Not only because of addiction or mental illness. There is truly a huge lack of affordable housing in California. There are people who’ve lost their jobs and homes due to circumstances not in their control—like COVID-19 or extreme fires and flooding. So it’s in everyone’s best interest to do all we can to lift up everyone, including homeless people, yes? Instead of just criticizing the solutions others are coming up with, maybe come up with some better solutions. That might actually be helpful.

Please try to stick to a specific topic for these opinion columns. You are all over the place by digressing from the SLO homeless issue to illegal immigrants. With this, you continue to spread the misinformation that California is “giving stimulus checks to illegal immigrants.” First, this has absolutely nothing to do with SLO’s homeless issue. And second, stimulus checks are not going to “illegal immigrants” as they do not qualify. You know who does qualify though? People living in America on work visas who are working, have Social Security numbers, and are paying U.S. taxes. They are eligible to receive stimulus checks. They are not illegal immigrants. Please do some real background research first. ∆

Margie Slivinske wrote to New Times from Arroyo Grande. Respond with a letter to the editor by emailing letters@newtimesslo.com.

It’s gotten to be way too much for the locals to handle. Why not take the tens of thousands of dollars spent on the fireworks the pier on one day every year and do some things that benefit the kids and others who live here? Like expand the pool hours, hire some swimming instructors, maybe start some leagues or clubs? How about organizing some competitive beach events or contests?

There must be something more beneficial for the locals than an overblown fireworks show.

John Winthrop Cayucos

To those leaving messes

I’d like Americans born from roughly the mid 1940s to 1960 to take a good look

Is this what the survivors of the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, and WWII taught you? They survived multiple calamities collectively, not individually. From city dwellers blocking the entrances of foreclosed brownstones, preventing homeowners being thrown into the street, to farmers and neighbors nullifying the auctions of mortgagees’ farms by either staying silent or bidding no more than $2. We now have armies of you falling over each other just to engage in bidding wars on the property of the victims of the economic policies your peers created. If you don’t think the general public sees this, you are severely deluded. We are waiting for you all to simply go away and never come back.

Shanti Harris San Luis Obispo

Taxpayer-funded solutions to homelessness are the only way forward

Swing for the fences

On Monday, July 10, I watched the MLB Home Run Derby from Seattle as my favorite Mookie Betts scored “only” 11 homers against ultimate winner Vlad Guerrero Jr. in the first round.

I can dimly recall seeing Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris hit back-to-back home runs in the 1960s. They did so 10 times in Yankee uniforms, a feat that inspired Yogi Berra to say, “It’s like déjà vu all over again.”

I got a bad case of déjà vu when I read Peter Johnson’s piece, “Cal Poly students demand … accountability for substandard housing from SLO City Council” (June 22). On June 6, several students laid before the council the crisis of rental housing that fails to meet minimum standards of health and safety.

Then, we learned that a major fire had consumed the Olive Street home of the Cal Poly Surf Team. The house had 100-year-old knob-and-tube wiring with a newer panel and new appliances—“not a good mix,” according to the city’s fire marshal. The fire broke out at 3:40 a.m. Thankfully nobody was injured or killed—this time.

I was on the SLO City Council in 2015 with former Mayor (and current council member) Jan Marx when we forged a narrow majority to enact a rental housing inspection program for our city. The inspections were based on a simple one-page inspection form, filled out by trained code enforcement staff and covering basic health and safety items like faulty wiring, dangerous plumbing, and illegal or unpermitted construction.

Term limits forced me to leave the council in 2016, just as the program had gotten off the ground. Mayor Marx also stepped down then after her narrow loss—by 47 votes—to Heidi Harmon. Within a few weeks, Harmon and the new council repealed the program.

This rush to repeal was in spite of the demonstrated success of the inspection program: In only nine months of its operation, the city had inspected almost 1,000 of the 4,500 single-family and duplex rentals in town. Only 16 percent of those rental units passed their first inspection; even after a second inspection, 40 percent still failed. Almost one-third were missing even the most fundamental safety item that’s standard equipment in every home: A smoke detector. At least a third of the units inspected had faulty electrical systems, over a quarter of the water heaters were not properly secured, and one out of 12 had plumbing issues that could result in black mold or E. coli exposure

Why was the new “progressive” council so eager to scrap the program in 2017? Politics: In the 2016 election, a coalition headed by then Councilmember Dan Carpenter threatened lawsuits and a referendum petition to repeal the rental housing inspection program. They rallied local conservatives to support Harmon’s 2016 campaign against Marx, gaining the support of hundreds of landlords who disliked the idea of being required to maintain habitable rental units. They were joined by a few tenants who complained loudly about the specter of city inspectors carelessly tossing through their closets.

The premature repeal of our fledgling rental housing safety program allowed the city’s substandard housing crisis to fester unabated: In late 2020, The Tribune published an investigation that exposed the abject failure of the new council’s “complaintbased” system of code enforcement.

Will the City Council now reconsider rental housing safety and stand up for the vast majority of the city’s residents who occupy rental housing? Several elements suggest a fundamental shift in favor of tenants’ safety:

• First and foremost, current Mayor Erica Stewart is far different from her predecessor: She’s a good listener and genuinely committed to using the city’s resources to improve quality of life. She was responsive to the Cal Poly students who lined up at the June 6 meeting, saying, “All of us on the council want to see people be able to live in a safe place.”

• Tenants—chiefly students—will also have an ally in Councilmember Marx, who regained a seat in 2020 and continues to advocate for sound rental housing policies.

• Top staff, who worked on the earlier rental housing program, are still with the City: Derek Johnson, the architect of the 2015 program, is now city manager. City Clerk Teresa Purrington was originally hired to manage the program.

As a longtime fan of Yogi Berra, I look forward to another case of “déjà vu all over again.” As the council considers rental housing safety, several changes might enable it to endure a little longer than its predecessor:

• Consider an energy efficiency program for rental housing units to complement the safety inspections—as a carrot, not as an inspection “stick.” Let’s offer financial incentives to landlords whose units comply with our safety standards to install EV chargers, solar panels, and other energysaving features. (Marx urged such measures in her “Speak Out” column last week)

• Team up with the Cal Poly dean of students’ new Off-Campus Housing Office to enable their referral system to identify the safety compliance record of rental units and to ensure that students are fully informed about rental housing safety standards and how to file a complaint with the city.

• Shift the enforcement schedule to provide for an inspection only when tenants with an active lease approve the inspection; or when a lease term is expiring; or after five to seven years has elapsed since the most recent inspection. This would protect civil liberties and privacy.

Meanwhile, I’m hoping that every member of the council will step up to the plate and swing for the fences at the Home Run Derby that awaits them when Chief Building Official Rodger Maggio reports back to them in a few weeks. ∆

John Ashbaugh has flashbacks to 1977, when a spacious one-bedroom apartment could be rented for $240 a month. Respond with an opinion piece by emailing it to letters@ newtimesslo.com.

Do you think dogs sniffing out mussels are effective?

84% Yes, they save more time.

12% What’s wrong with mussels?

2% No, it’s annoying to wait.

2% I check my boat for mussels myself.

NEW

AND

PET PHOTO CONTEST

ANNOUNCE: THE FIRST ANNUAL ENTRY PERIOD: AUG. 24SEPT. 18, 2023

PUBLISHED: OCTOBER 19, 2023

SHAHINE BLUE

SADIE

Hot cash injection, Sunny Acres rejection

If you were handed $13.4 million to clear out a homeless encampment and relocate approximately 200 “campers,” how would you spend it?

The big bucks, which the SLO County Board of Supervisors unanimously accepted—because free money, whoop whoop!— came from the Encampment Resolution Fund from the California Interagency Council on Homelessness, which totaled $199 million for the entire state with the goal of moving 7,300 encampment residents into housing in 23 different projects. SLO County’s share was a cool $13.4 million to remove 200 people—$67,000 per person.

So, how’s the county planning on spending the money? Their idea, according to their press release, is “to reduce encampments in a flood and fire danger zone and around the segment of the Bob Jones Bike Trail parallel to South Higuera Street in San Luis Obispo.”

“Reduce encampments”? Um, OK, but haven’t we seen this show before? In fact, wasn’t it just last year on Jan. 7 that SLO Police officers, park rangers, and 2 Mexicans Junk Removal workers were clearing a homeless encampment on the Bob Jones Trail near Prado Road? Didn’t they also clear encampments from the same area in October 2020? What’s going to be different this time?

Well, according to the county, the operation will have three parts: “Cleanup of the San Luis Creek and associated open spaces near the Bob Jones Bike Trail” (if it’s like

previous attempts, read that as run off the homeless and throw away any belongings they can’t carry); “expansion of ongoing field outreach efforts to those living in the area” (read that as tell the campers about homeless services like 40 Prado Homeless Services Center, EOC Homeless Services, and Shower the People, which isn’t exactly the same as finding them homes, is it?); and finally, “development of a non-congregate housing facility with on-site wraparound services, dubbed the ‘Welcome Home Village.’”

Wait a minute! That last part may actually be different from past attempts!

“Non-congregate housing” means offering a living space with some level of privacy, such as a motel room. According to the plan, DignityMoves “will build a supportive housing community,” LifeArk “will build modular Homes,” and Good Samaritan Shelter “will manage the supportive housing program.”

Predictably, 5th District Supervisor

Debbie Arnold bitched about the plan in a back-and-forth with Homeless Services

Division Manager Joe Dzvonik and SLO City Manager Derek Johnson because what happens when the money runs out?

Unpredictably, 3rd District Supervisor

Dawn Ortiz-Legg started crying as she told Dzvonik how “gosh darn” proud she is of him and his staff for the plan.

You know what this plan reminds me of?

Sunny Acres, Dan DeVaul’s utopian dream

of housing and helping homeless and addicted people at his 72-acre ranch along Los Osos Valley Road. The “modular homes” idea reminds me of the little 8-by-10-foot garden sheds DeVaul had built for people to live in, and the “supportive housing program” reminds me of the AA and NA meetings, group meals, and cooperative community DeVaul tried to create.

How did all that go? Well, the very same SLO County government that’s all-in on this new Welcome Home Village plan thwarted DeVaul at every turn, arguing his garden sheds weren’t fit for human habitation.

I’m sure the county was correct, and they weren’t up to code, and by many measures Sunny Acres as a rehab facility is a hot mess, and certainly “Saint” Dan’s halo has been badly tarnished during his tenure as the Lord and Savior of Homeless Addicts, but he created his nonprofit way back in November 2001 to help people.

DeVaul was a guy who was trying, however imperfectly, to get people off the street. Would he have succeeded if the country gave him the help he needed? Instead, DeVaul’s been sued by the county over code violations. He’s been unable over the last 22 years to make his utopia a success.

Speak up!

protestation. Now in DeVaul’s current wrangling with the county, his attorney Matt Janowicz is arguing before Judge Rita Federman that residents should be removed. What the what?

Look, it’s true. Sunny Acres isn’t fit for human habitation. It doesn’t even have clean drinking water! Assistant County Counsel Jon Ansolabehere is arguing Sunny Acres is mess because of DeVaul’s mishandling of the property, and DeVaul’s attorney is arguing the ranch is a mess because of the tenants. They’re probably both right.

“It appears that Sunny Acres is housing more people than is permitted in the program and more than can be properly housed and are otherwise living on the property unlawfully,” Janowicz argued.

“The property owner used those individuals as a shield against the county’s health and safety laws,” Ansolabehere countered. “It’s a little disingenuous to flippantly ask the court to remove them.”

It’s awfully topsy-turvy out at Sunny Acres these days. Years ago, when DeVaul couldn’t supply up-to-code housing for his residents, the county kicked people off the property and back into homelessness despite DeVaul’s

Move them where? The Bob Jones Trail? What if the county helped get Sunny Acres in compliance with a functioning well and upto-code housing instead of suing an ailing owner who hasn’t been on his property in two years? How about funding a “supportive housing program” there? The inconsistent thinking is grinding my gears. ∆

The Shredder loathes hypocrisy. Tell it what you loathe at shredder@newtimesslo.com.

Hot Dates

MODEL CITIZENS

Studios on the Park in Paso Robles will host a live figure drawing program on Thursday, July 20, from 1 to 4 p.m. This uninstructed session is open to adults ages 18 and older. Participants are asked to bring their own art supplies. Admission to the program is $20. Visit studiosonthepark.org for more info. The venue is located at 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

—Caleb Wiseblood

ARTS

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BAREFOOT IN THE PARK Presented by

By the Sea Productions. Visit site for tickets and more details. July 14 -Aug. 6 my805tix. com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.

BOLERO LESSON AND BALLROOM

DANCE Enjoy an evening of dance, beginning with a free Bolero lesson. After the lesson, practice your waltz, foxtrot, east coast swing, country two-step, cha cha, bolero, hustle, tango and nightclub two-step to a diverse mix of pre-recorded music. July 14, 6-9 p.m. Free. 805-7092477. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, morro-bay. ca.us/345/Community-Center.

COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY

Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. Event lasts up to 2 hours. 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. Jewett’s work is also on display at Nautical Bean in Laguna shopping center during February. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559-799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

FINE ART OIL PAINTINGS BY PATRICIA

NEWTON “The ocean is a favorite subject of mine with its calming, yet powerful

movement. Like the rise and fall of a crescendo, the sea bestows a feeling of increasing intensity with a dramatic force that feels exhilarating, captivating, yet terrifyingly beautiful,” Newton stated. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY SIRAGUSA Gregory Siragusa’s photography is inspired by the ebbs and flows of the world around us: the flight of a bird, the strum of a guitar, the kick of a drum, the endless and eternal crashing of the waves of the Pacific Ocean. 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.

A FINE FEAST: ACRYLICS BY ANNE SELTZER Seltzer’s July exhibit is currently on display. For more information or to purchase work, please contact Seltzer via email: anniearts2003@yahoo.com.

Mondays-Sundays. through July 29 805927-4336. slolibrary.org. Cambria Library, 1043 Main St., Cambria.

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.

MAGICIAN JIM WILSON Enjoy a fun afternoon of magic from Jim Wilson. He will levitate people and make things disappear; you will laugh and be amazed. All ages welcome. July 19 2:30-3:30 p.m. Free. 805995-3312. slolibrary.org. Cayucos Library, 310 B. St., Cayucos.

METAL ART BY TRUDI GILLIAM Gilliam

creates her sculptures using copper, brass, nickel/silver, and found objects. This new series of whales and birds uses copper and sea glass. ongoing 805-772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

MOSAIC TRIVET WORKSHOP During this workshop, you will learn how to design and create a mosaic trivet. You will learn how to select materials, lay out a pleasing pattern, and adhere the tiles to the trivet base. You will learn how to properly grout and seal your project. ongoing, 1-4 p.m. $60. 805772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org/index. php/workshops/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., 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 Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

PORCELAIN POTTERY BY THOMAS

BROWN Brown has dedicated his ceramics career to studying crystalline glazes specifically. His medium of choice is usually porcelain and he typically creates his forms on the potter’s wheel. All of Thomas’ glazes are mixed from scratch, perfected throughout the past four decades. 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.

ROCK, PAPER, PRINT, AND ABSTRACTION An exhibition of new work from Central Coast Printmakers. Artist’s reception on July 9. Through Aug. 7, noon 805-772-2504. centralcoastprintmakers. org/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY JAMBOREE

Features headliner Cory Michaelis. Hosted

New Times and the Sun now share their community listings for a complete Central Coast calendar running from SLO County through northern Santa Barbara County. Submit events online by logging in with your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account at newtimesslo.com. You may also email calendar@newtimesslo. com. Deadline is one week before the issue date on Thursdays. Submissions are subject to editing and approval. Contact Calendar Editor Caleb Wiseblood directly at cwiseblood@newtimesslo.com.

by Ron Babcock, with local comedian Paco Zamora. Special guest Chris Lewis. Featuring Jackie Gold. July 15 8-9:30 p.m. $30. 805-534-3129. facebook.com/ slofunny. Morro Bay Eagles Club, 2988 Main St, Morro Bay.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY JAMBOREE LOS

OSOS The SLOFunny Comedy Jamboree comes to a close at Central Coast Pizza in Los Osos with headliner Jackie Gold (The Laugh Factory). Hosted by Cory Michaelis (DryBar Comedy), with Paco Zamora. Special Guest Chris Lewis. Featuring Ron Babcock. July 16, 8-9:30 p.m. $30. 805-5343129. facebook.com/slofunny. Central Coast Pizza, 1050 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos. SUMMER ART FOR KIDS SERIES

Ages 6-12. Schedule changes during Fourth of July week (to Wed, Thur, Fri). Each week offers three creative sessions with an experienced art teacher using a wide variety of art techniques Tuesdays-Thursdays, 2:30-5 p.m. through Aug. 10 $120 per week. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

TOM GOULD: CONNECTIONS Seeking original art of all types, large and small, to exhibit concurrently with next featured artist: Tom Gould. Submit up to four pieces online June 28 through July 2. FridaysSundays, 12-4 p.m. through Aug. 27 Free. 805-927-8190. cambriaarts.org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

CAMP AND PAINT Join Art Social 805 at Sun Outdoors Paso Robles where you will paint the featured image while enjoying your favorite snacks and beverages (BYOB). July 22 , 5-7 p.m. $40. 805-2424700. artsocial805.com. Sun Outdoors Paso Robles, 3800 Golden Hill Road, 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.

LIVE FIGURE DRAWING CLASS These are uninstructed sessions. The model will be either minimally clothed or nude, so participants must be at least 18 years old. Please bring your own art supplies (sketch pad, pencils and/or charcoal, whatever medium you wish to use). Chairs and tables provided. July 20 1-4 p.m. $20. 805-2389800. studiosonthepark.org/events/julylive-figure-drawing/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

OUR CENTRAL COAST Four art associations (Atascadero Art Association, Cambria Center for the Arts, Morro Bay Art Association, and Paso Robles Art Association) come together to showcase their visions of Central Coast living. The show has been curated by Jordan Hockett. Through Aug. 27 Free. 805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org/events/our-centralcoast/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY AT TOOTH AND NAIL WINERY SLOFunny Comedy is back with headliner Cory Michaelis (DryBar Comedy). Hosted by Ron Babcock, with local comedian Paco Zamora. Special guest Chris Lewis. Featuring Jackie Gold. July 14, 8-9:30 p.m. $30. 805-534-3129. facebook.com/slofunny. Tooth and Nail Winery, 3090 Anderson Rd., Paso Robles. 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.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES

Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus exposure to Los Angeles talent agents. All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing

$210 per month. actorsedge.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre. com.

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.

BEGINNING WATERCOLOR WITH JAN FRENCH Come be introduced to the personality and potential of this tricky but dynamic medium. For beginners or watercolorists who’d like to “loosen up” their painting. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Aug. 4 Four classes for $120. janfrench.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-747-4200.

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.

COMEDY NIGHT Professional comedy show featuring local and touring comics. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. Third Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. $5. 805-540-8300. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo, bangthedrumbrewery.com.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Looking for a fun

PHOTO COURTESY OF LAVI PERCHIK

City of A oyo Grande Summer

Concert Series

date night? Head to Anam Cre Pottery Studio and play with clay. Couples will learn how to throw a pot on the wheel and make a cheeseboard.

Fridays, Saturdays, 6-8 p.m. $140. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

FAMILY POTTERY CLASS A family-oriented class time. Any age or level welcome. Choice of sculpting, painting. or throwing on the wheel. Children must be accompanied by participating parent. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Aug. 26 $35. anamcre.com. 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. ongoing, 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.

HONK JR., A MUSICAL TALE OF THE UGLY DUCKLING In this story for audiences of all ages, the animals on the farm are quick to point out that Ugly looks different from his duckling brothers and sisters. So Ugly embarks on an adventure of self-discovery. July 14 -15, 7-9 p.m., Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. and July 19 -22, 7-9 p.m. through July 23 $15-$25. 805-786-2440. slorep.org/shows/honk-jr-a-musical-tale-ofthe-ugly-duckling/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

INTERMEDIATE OIL PAINTING: ADULT ART

CLASS This class is for students who may have tried oil painting in the past but are looking to advance their skill levels. Color theory and proportion study will be a focus in the class. Mondays, 2-5 p.m. $30 per student or $75 for 3 classes. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/ workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INTRO TO OIL PAINTING WITH SPENCER

COLLINS The perfect class for those wanting to try oil painting for the first time. Guests discuss color theory, layering paint, and how to use various media. For ages 16 and over. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $30 per class or $100 for 4 classes. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INTRODUCTION TO OIL PAINTING WITH JASON MAYR Discover the art of oil painting through this hands-on five-week series. You will be led through the process from staining the canvas to “finishing” the painting. Take your painting home at the end of the series (July 4 is off). Tuesdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. through July 25 $250 for five sessions. 805-234-6940. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art

Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

Summer 2023 Home Game Schedule

July

July

July

July

July

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.

KIDS COMEDY CAMP For ages 4-8 (10 a.m. to 10:50 a.m.), 9-12 (11 a.m. to noon), and 13-17 (1 to 3 p.m.). July 17-21 $250. 805-858-8255. centralcoastcomedytheater.com/classes.

Central Coast Comedy Theater Training Center, 2078 Parker Street, Suite 200, San Luis Obispo.

KIDS POTTERY CLASSES Enjoy making animal sculptures, bowls, plates, etc. Please arrive on time, not early, as venue uses the transition time between classes to sanitize. Designed to sign up on a weekly basis. Thursdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., 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, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. 805-441-8257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.

LISA SOLOMON Solomon’s mixed media works revolve thematically around discovering her heritage, the notion of domesticity, craft, feminism, and the pursuit of art as science/ research. Through Aug. 28, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/lisasolomon/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

MELTED (FINALE) A magical evening of music, art, poetry, CBD chocolates, and delicious food. July 15 6-11 p.m. my805tix.com. Unitarian

Universalist, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo. ODDFELLOWS OPEN MIC Bring your music, improv, standup, magic, and dance talents. Each act gets five minutes. Audience votes for favorite. Third Saturday of every month, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-234-0456. Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo.

ONCE MORE, WITH FEELING: GARET ZOOK

Garet Zook’s contemporary sculptures utilize resin castings, molded foam, and natural stone along with abandoned and forgotten objects, unearthing hidden treasures and revealing layers of profound significance, challenging traditional notions of value and inviting viewers to engage in dialogue about the nature of existence. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Aug. 18 Free. 805-546-3202. cuesta.edu/ student/campuslife/artgallery/index.html. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

ONE-OFF IMPROV SUMMER SPOOF-OFF

This lightning-quick team of seasoned local improvisers creates every line, scene, twist, and tweak on the spot as they bring your favorite film and TV genres alive. Enjoy improv comedy like you’ve never seen before in Linnaea’s beautiful outdoor garden. Come early for best seating. July 15 6-8:30 p.m. $5 suggested donation at the door. 805-541-5888. Linnaea’s Cafe, 1110 Garden St., San Luis Obispo, linnaeas.com/.

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/eventcalendar. Saints Barrel Wine Bar, 1021 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

PAINT A PRE-MADE POTTERY PIECE Paint a pre-made pottery piece. Choose from a variety of different pieces including mugs, bowls, jars, dragons, cats, etc. Priced by size, accompanied with an additional $10 firing fee per piece. Book your appointment online. Mondays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Aug. 28 Free appointment; prices vary based on pieces chosen. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey 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, 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.

SANGRIA SOIREE AND ART AUCTION: A BENEFIT FOR NOVY’S ARK Support Novy’s Ark Dog Rescue at this summer benefit. Ticket holders will enjoy sangria, snacks, and live music while browsing the silent art auction. Be part of supporting Novy’s Ark and their mission to rescue and rehome dogs in need. July 16 2-5 p.m. $35. 805-574-0320. eventbrite.com.

Saucelito Canyon Tasting Room, 3080 Biddle Ranch Rd., 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.

SCULPTURE WORKSHOP: SPIRIT ANIMAL

Beginners welcome. This 6-visit sculpture class meets twice a week for a total of 3 weeks. Rod will guide each student in creating an animal sculpture. Mondays, Fridays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. through July 21 $240. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SENIOR CLAY CLASS Offered to the senior community as an outlet to explore the beauty of clay. For ages 60 and over. Caretakers welcome for an additional $20. 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

WHIMSICAL WONDERLAND

Imaginings: An Exploration of Whimsy, a new duo exhibition at Gallery Los Olivos, premiered in early July and will remain on display through Sunday, July 30. The exhibit showcases a collection of oil paintings by Carol Simon, including A Good Year, pictured here, and watercolor and ink works by Cathy Quiel. Call (805) 688-7517 or visit gallerylosolivos.com for more info. The gallery is located at 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-2337, libertinebrewing.com.

SLO DRAWZ: OPEN FIGURE DRAWING

GROUP Improve your drawing skills while also building a community of supportive creatives with live models. This is not a guided class, please bring your own materials. To sign up, email chantellegoldthwaite@gmail.com. Every other Thursday, 5-7 p.m. through Dec. 31 $20 per session; or $60 for a month pass. 805-747-4200. instagram.com/slodrawz/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY JAMBOREE SLO

SLOFunny Comedy is bringing its hilarious hijinks to BA Start Arcade Bar in downtown San Luis Obispo for some Farmer’s Market laughs with nationally touring headliner Cory Michaelis (DryBar Comedy). July 13, 8-9:30 p.m. $30. 805-534-3129. facebook.com/slofunny. BA Start Arcade and Taproom, 647 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

SUMMER 2023 THEATRE CAMPS SLO

REP’s Academy of Creative Theatre presents fun theatre camps for all ages and levels of experience, taught by professional teaching artists. Check site or call for camp dates. Through Aug. 1 slorep.org. San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre, 3533 Empleo St., San Luis Obispo.

TINY POTTERS: WISE ONES AND WEE ONES

PAINT For ages 4 to 6. Kids have the option to paint animals and other subjects. Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $30. anamcre.com/booking.

Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

VANESSA WALLACE-GONZALES WallaceGonzales is a Black-Latinx and Santa Barbarabased artist who uses elements of mythology to explore her identity and personal experiences. Through Oct. 2, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-5438562. sloma.org/exhibition/vanessa-wallacegonzales/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., 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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano. SEX N’ THE CITY

An unauthorized musical parody of the popular HBO show presented by Entertainment Events, Inc. July 14, 8-10 p.m. $45-$65. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ sex-n-the-city/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

UNDER THE BOARDWALK Visit site for tickets and more info on the show. Through July 15 americanmelodrama.com/. Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

AMERICAN MARIACHI: SANTA MARIA An uplifting comedy about family, the freedom to go after your dreams, and the music that unites us. By José Cruz Gonzalez. July 13 7 p.m., July 14, 7 p.m., July 15, 7 p.m., July 16 1:30 p.m., July 19, 1:30 p.m., July 21 7 p.m., July 22 1:30 & 7 p.m. and July 23 1:30 p.m. Starting at $25. 805-922-8313. pcpa.org/events/american-mariachi. PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria.

AND THEN THERE WERE NONE Presented by Orcutt Community Theater. July 14 -30 my805tix. com. Minerva Club, 127 W. Boone, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

BRIGHT STAR Steve Martin and Edie Brickell’s Grammy and Tony-nominated musical weaves toe-tapping bluegrass and incredible true events into a rich, refreshingly genuine journey along the Blue Ridge Mountains. July 13 8-10 p.m., July 14 8-10 p.m., July 15 8-10 p.m., July 16 8-10 p.m., July 20 8-10 p.m., July 21 8-10 p.m., July 22 , 8 a.m.-10 p.m. and July 23 8-10 p.m. Starting at $25. 805-922-8313. pcpa.org. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

IMAGININGS: AN EXPLORATION OF WHIMSY With artists Cathy Quiel and Carol Simon. One exhibition, two renowned artists. With oil, watercolor and whimsy, the duo will exhibit the whimsical and unique moments in life through quirky landscapes. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through July 31 Free. 805-688-7517. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos, gallerylosolivos.com.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

EMBROIDERERS GUILD OF AMERICA

The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its monthly meeting. For more information, follow on Facebook or visit the EGA website. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 18 Free. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach, 805-773-4832.

GOLD FEVER AT THE ROUGH AND READY

Boo the villain and cheer the hero at this show full of colorful characters. July 21-Sept. 9 Great

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.

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,

—C.W.

COURTESY IMAGE BY CAROL SIMON

Thomas Blumberg Quartet

THURS, JULY 13 Linnaea’s Cafe

FRI, JULY 14 The Carissa San Luis Obispo

Sunset Yoga in Morro Bay

THURSDAY, JULY 13 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

SLOFunny Comedy Jamboree SLO

THURSDAY, JULY 13 BA Start Barcade, San Luis Obispo

Peaceful Plants: Succulent Garden Class

FRIDAY, JULY 14

Stilson Cellars, Paso Robles

Stevie Nicks Illusion: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac FRIDAY, JULY 14

Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SLOFunny Comedy Jamboree at Tooth & Nail FRIDAY, JULY 14 Tooth & Nail Winery, Paso Robles

Begrime Exemious (Canada), Poxx, Sepsis + more TBA

THURSDAY, JULY 27

Narducci’s Cafe, Bakersfield

16 Central Coast Pizza, Los Osos

Deadstock 2023 (11 bands from all over California)

THURS & FRI, JULY 28 & 29

Dark Nectar Coffee, Atascadero

Shamanic Morning Rituals for Vitality

THURSDAY, JULY 20 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

The 805 Cali Tejanos

SATURDAY, JULY 22

Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Mo Betta Summer Jazz Series

SUNDAY, JULY 23

Antigua Brewing Company, San Luis Obispo

Laugh Therapy: Stand-Up Comedy

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26 Maverick Saloon, Santa Ynez

KD Train / Knee Deep

FRIDAY, JULY 28

Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Saunter Yoga & Wellness: Yoga & Wine Blending Class

SATURDAY, JULY 29

Timshel Vineyards, Paso Robles

SLOFunny Comedy Show

SATURDAY, JULY 29

The Savory Palette, Morro Bay

Records on Tap Presents Five Punk Bands

SATURDAY, JULY 29

Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Hot Dates

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. 805-2357978. 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. Mask Required. Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, 805-772-2840, 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.

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.

SHAMANIC MORNING RITUALS FOR VITALITY Hosted by Aurora Meditations & Rituals. July 20 8:30-9:30 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 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.

SUNSET YOGA IN MORRO BAY This is a complete class with meditation, connection to your energy centers, vital movement, and a nourishing cool down. July 13 5:15-6:30 p.m. my805tix. com. Beach Access Parking Lot, 102 Atascadero Road, Morro Bay.

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. 805701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

TAI CHI CHUN CERTIFICATION With the 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the year. Ongoing courses. ongoing Call for price. 805-701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

TAI CHI CHUN/ QI GONG BASICS Learn the foundation of Qi Gong, the rooting of breathing, and Shaolin Tai Chi. TuesdaysThursdays Call for details. 805-701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

WATERFRONT MARKET MORRO BAY Looking for something to do this weekend? This event features local crafters and is located in the parking lot of Giovanni’s Fish Market. July 15 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and July 16, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay, (805) 772-2123.

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

CALIFORNIA MID-STATE FAIR Features live music, food vendors, carnival attractions, and more. July 19 -30 midstatefair. com/. Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

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. 805-441-2164. North County Connection, 8600 Atascadero Ave., Atascadero.

SANTA LUCIA ROCKHOUNDS MEETING Bring your favorite rock, gem, crystal, fossil, etc., to show the rest of the club. Third Monday of every month, 7 p.m. slrockhounds.org/. Templeton Community Center, 601 S. Main St., Templeton.

SUCCULENT GARDEN CLASS The class includes all materials, use of tools, instruction, and one glass of Stilson wine. July 14, 5 p.m. $50. my805tix.com. Stilson Cellars, 1005 Railroad Street, Suite 2, Paso Robles, 661-609-2998.

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,

&

Thursday, July 20 Ca lemen & Farmers Day

Friday, July 21 Seniors

Wednesday, July 26

Thursday, July 27

Friday, July 28 Kids Day presented by

CHUMASH GRANDSTAND ARENA

7/19 - MISS CMSF PAGEANT @ 6PM

7/20 - SHAKE RATTLE & ROLL (ELVIS IMPERSONATOR)

7/21 - LEGENDS IN CONCERT - DIRECT FROM LONDON

7/22 - NED LEDOUX

7/23 - LOS MORRO DEL NORTE

7/24 - SCOTTY McCREERY

WITH SPECIAL GUEST CONNER SMITH

DAILY AT 8:00 PM* - FREE WITH PAID FAIR ADMISSION

7/25 - A FLOCK OF SEAGULLS

7/26 - BEN HAGGARD

7/27 - IAM TONGI

7/28 - TYLER RICH

7/29 - THE ORIGINAL WAILERS

7/30 - SHANE PROFITT

More than 3 times the CDs, 4 times the LPs, and 50 times the Movies of any local store

Only Cheap Thrills competes with Big Box stores. You do not pay more at Cheap Thrills.

• New Releases at Cost

• Discount Supplies & Accessories

• Lower price on New & New Condition Discs - 15% to 50% less.

• Lowest price on High Quality Used Discs - Starting at $1.98

Only Cheap Thrills:

• Turntable grades its used vinyl (others just look at condition & do not check for actual quality)

• All regular discs are remanufactured to new condition and given new outer packaging. New condition at used prices.

• All used Audio & Video equipment is fully tested & guaranteed.

Our staff has over 100 years of combined music knowledge to serve our customers

CASH PAID FOR USED MOVIES & MORE!

Entries to our annual 55 Fiction writing contest are accepted all year long.

The entry period for stories for this year’s publications has ended.

Winning stories will be published on July 27, 2023

Sunday, July 30 Closing Day

For more details: bit.ly/55Fiction

CEO’s Message

On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff, I welcome you to the 2023 California Mid-State Fair where we celebrate this year’s vintage-Vegas inspired theme, “Shake, Ra le, and Roll.” As always, the staff has worked tirelessly and the grounds are simply beautiful, full of splendor and many new improvements to enjoy. Whether you ride the rides, listen to the stellar entertainment staged throughout the grounds, watch the livestock and equestrian events, go shopping with the commercial vendors, or just eat fabulous food, please take time to enjoy every aspect that makes this fair “The Biggest Li le Fair … Anywhere!” It is with heartfelt “thank-you, thank-you very much” for the dedicated support from our staff, volunteers and the many sponsors who all have enabled us to be the great success we are today in the industry. We hope you have an incredible experience and enjoy as we “Shake, Ra le, and Roll” at the 2023 California Mid-State Fair!

President’s Message

On behalf of the California Mid-State Fair Board of Directors, welcome to the Fabulous California Mid-State Fair. It’s time to Shake, Ra le, & Roll!

For our 77th annual California Mid-State Fair, we are pu ing all of our chips on the table to celebrate our dynamic community and provide to you the best 12-days of summer! As always, there is something for everyone during the 12 days of the Fair. Fairgoers can try their luck at one of the many public contests, experience the thrill of the carnival, enjoy shopping, free live music, culinary delights, and educational programs. You will not want to miss the showstopping exhibit buildings bursting with, arts and crafts, home arts, photography, fine art, horticulture and floriculture. Join us on Seniors Day, Kids Day, and Armed Forces Day, as we spotlight and celebrate our Seniors, Kids and Armed Forces. Take a gamble on who will be crowned the next California Mid-State Fair Queen by a ending the pageant – a neon-night filled with glitz, glamour and talent. Head to the north end of the Fairgrounds to see all the 4-H and FFA livestock and to catch some of the best and most renowned horse and livestock shows. Also on display will be amazing industrial art projects, custom crafted by high-school students. Each evening you will find top-notch artists performing in the main Grandstand arena. The last Saturday features our elite local cowboys and cowgirls competing in the Country Rodeo Finals – a night filled with pride and patriotism. Closing night join us for the new and exciting Mud Bogs – just be careful where you sit!

The California Mid-State Fair is a true collaboration of our extraordinary community, gracious volunteers, generous sponsors, talented exhibitors, dedicated staff, vendors, auction buyers, and fairgoers of all ages. We invite you to come and experience all that our unique Fair has to offer. Roll the dice and come once, come twice, or come all 12-days, you will not want to miss all the sights, sounds, and thrills of this year’s Fair. I am going to double down and bet that this is going to be the best Fair yet. Come Shake, Ra le & Roll with us. We look forward to making lasting memories with you at the 2023 California Mid-State Fair.

See you at the Biggest Li le Fair Anywhere!

Jubilantly, Krista

Sabin, President 16th District Agricultural Association

Hot Dates

600 Nickerson Dr., Paso Robles.

TOPS SUPPORT GROUP: WEIGHT LOSS AND MAINTENANCE A self-help support group focusing on weight loss and maintenance.

Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. 805-242-2421. tops.org. Santa Margarita Senior Center, 2210 H St., Santa Margarita.

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. 805-4703360. Colony Park Community Center, 5599 Traffic Way, Atascadero.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

37TH ANNUAL CENTRAL COAST

RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL Relax on a shady hay bale and watch riotous stage plays, hilarious comedy acts, authentic Elizabethan dancing, a falconry show, magic, juggling, and crazy buffoonery. July 15 -16 my805tix.com. Laguna Lake Park, 504 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

AERIAL SILKS CLINIC Learn aerial skills that build memory, strength, coordination, confidence, and endurance. Plus, silks is a great way to learn flipping safely. Ages 7-17. No experience necessary. July 22 , 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; $10 per additional sibling. 805-5471496. performanceathleticsslo.com/events.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, 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.

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

DM PRO TENNIS ACADEMY Classes offered for all ages. Training and assistance are provided to support any goal, from the development of basic skills to top competition. Consultation with instructors is available. Multilingual instruction in English, Spanish, and Italian are available.

Mondays, Wednesdays, 9-10, 10-11 & 11 a.m.-noon through July 26 Ranges from $55–$105. slocity. org. Islay Hill Park, 1151 Tank Farm Rd., San Luis Obispo.

GALA PRIDE AND DIVERSITY CENTER

BOARD MEETING (VIA ZOOM) Monthly meeting of the Gala Pride and Diversity Center Board of Directors. Meets virtually via Zoom and is open to members of the public. Visit galacc. org/events to fill out the form to request meeting access. Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. No admission fee. galacc.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

LOTERÍA NIGHTS Enjoy a game of La Lotería Mexicana, a bingo-style game with colorful and beautifully-drawn cards. With drink specials and prizes for the winners. RSVP encouraged.

Thursdays, 6 p.m. Free. drinkramblingspirits.com.

Rambling Spirits, 3845 S. Higuera St. (inside SLO Public Market), San Luis Obispo.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.

PLUG-IN TO LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION Get inspired by local action, connect with others, and discover more ways to get involved with the SLO Climate Coalition. Attend virtually or in-person. Sustainable snacks and childcare will be provided. Third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. Ludwick Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, San Luis Obispo.

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED: TRAIN

THIS SUMMER TO MEET CRUCIAL HOSPICE

VOLUNTEER NEEDS Put your extra time to beneficial use by completing this threeday, in-person, hospice volunteer training program. Community volunteers are critically needed to provide in-home companionship or respite care to hospice patients, near you.

July 21 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-540-6020. centralcoasthomehealth.com/index.php/ hospice/. Central Coast Home Health and Hospice, 253 Granada, San Luis Obispo.

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. Saturdays, 9 a.m. and Wednesdays, 10 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

PAST LIVES

The Octagon Barn in San Luis Obispo will host the Bootleg Ball, a roaring 1920s-themed fundraiser with live jazz music, casino games, and more, on Saturday, July 15. Proceeds of the event will benefit the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center. Visit dunescenter.org for more info. Tickets start at $75, and 1920s attire is encouraged. The Octagon Barn is located at 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo. —C.W.

AGILITY CLINIC In a world where the “cool” kids seem to rule, agility (aka parkour) offers a path to social confidence. No experience is necessary, so come transform from timid to triumphant and flip with flair. For ages 5-17. July 15, 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; $10 per additional sibling. 805-5471496. performanceathleticsslo.com. Performance

Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., 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.

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.

CAMP SHORESHIM Summer camps offered in two separate sessions. Visit site for more details. Through July 21 jccslo.com. JCC-Federation of SLO Property, 875 Laureate Lane, San Luis Obispo, 805-426-5465.

CENTRAL COAST POLYAMORY Hosting a discussion group featuring different topics relating to ethical non-monogamy every month. Third Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

GYM JAM CLINIC Two hours of progressive gymnastics skill training on bars, beam, floor, trampoline, plus obstacle courses, and more. Ages 5-17. July 22 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; $10 per additional sibling. 805-5471496. performanceathleticsslo.com/events.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP

A safe place for anyone suffering from the pain of depression. We do not criticize but do share our journey, feelings, and what works for us. We can meet in person or use Zoom if needed. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. 805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

INTRODUCTION TO PICKLEBALL For ages 18 and over. Come see what pickleball is all about. Participants will learn the basics of the game including the rules, basic skills and strategy, types of equipment, and game safety.

Saturdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. through Aug. 26 $35. slocity.org.

Meadow Park, 2251 Meadow St., San Luis Obispo.

LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A prorecovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgmentfree support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. Third Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:309:30 a.m. through Nov. 25 $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo, 877-468-3861.

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 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 Center, 6340 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAM

FOR YOUNG ATHLETES (GRADES 2-4) In this program, your child will learn the foundation of becoming a well-rounded athlete as we focus on skill development, movement, teamwork, and increasing confidence in each workout session.

Mondays, Wednesdays, 3:30-4:20 p.m. through Sept. 20 $399 for a 12-Week Session (24 Classes). slocity.org. MZR Fitness, 3536 S. Higuera St. suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-4616.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAM

FOR YOUNG ATHLETES (GRADES 5-7) In this program, your child will learn the foundation of becoming a well-rounded athlete as we focus on skill development, movement, teamwork, and increasing confidence in each workout session.

Mondays, Wednesdays, 4:30-5:20 p.m. through Sept. 20 $399 for a 12-Week Session (24 Classes). slocity.org. MZR Fitness, 3536 S. Higuera St. suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-4616.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAM

FOR YOUNG ATHLETES (GRADES 8-12) In this program, your child will learn the foundation of becoming a well-rounded athlete as we focus on skill development, movement, teamwork, and increasing confidence in each workout session.

Mondays, Wednesdays, 5:30-6:20 p.m. through Sept. 20 $399 for a 12-Week Session (24 Classes). slocity.org. MZR Fitness, 3536 S. Higuera St. suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-4616.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA

GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics

SLO Blues Baseball Home Games SELECT DAYS/TIMES

Sinsheimer Park, San Luis Obispo

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 Center, 6340 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

SIERRA CLUB TERRACE HILL WALK AND POETRY PICNIC Walk past manzanitas and oaks to the crest of Terrace Hill. Group will eat lunch, behold the views of 4 Morros, and read poems aloud. Bring lunch, water, something to sit on, and poem. Meet at Terrace Hill trailhead on Bishop Street. July 15 11 a.m. Free. 805-5490355. Terrace Hill Open Space, Bishop St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO BLUES BASEBALL: JULY SCHEDULE Visit site for tickets and full lineup of games. Through July 29 my805tix.com. Sinsheimer Park, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo, 805-781-7222.

SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

A good core group of friends who gather to discuss topics we love/ care about from movies, outings, music, or being new to the area. We come from all walks of life and most importantly support each other. Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of every month, 6:309 p.m. Free. sloqueer.groups.io/g/lezbfriends.

Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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 MONTHLY GETTOGETHERS SLO RAMs is a group of retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Third Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $31 luncheon. retiredactivemen.org/. Madonna Inn Garden Room, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.

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

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 REC SATURDAYS Offers the public a full day of recreational swim on Super Saturdays, with an obstacle course, diving boards, activities, and music. All ages are welcome to enjoy. Every other Saturday, 12-6 p.m. through Aug. 13 Adults: $4.75; Youth/Seniors: $4.25. 805-781-7288. slocity.org. SLO Swim Center, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo.

TOSS FOR TAILS: A CORNHOLE

TOURNAMENT TO BENEFIT WOODS

HUMANE SOCIETY A double elimination cornhole tournament to raise money for Woods Humane Society. Enjoy a wonderful afternoon of tossing bags, food and drink, and raising money for a great cause. July 16 12-5 p.m. $20. 805835-3063. meetup.com. Central Coast Brewing, 6 Higuera 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) 5449096, octagonbarn.org.

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender nonconforming, 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.

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio

Barefoot in the Park FRI, SAT, SUN JULY 14–AUG. 6 By the Sea Productions, Morro Bay

Palm Theater

SELECT DAYS/TIMES Palm Theater, San Luis Obispo

PCPA Presents: Bright Star JULY 7–9, 13–16, 20–23 Solvang Festival Theater, Solvang

FILE PHOTO BY HELEN ANN THOMAS

and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

FAMILY OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT AT THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF SOUTH

SLO A free summer movie night for families. Join for a family-friendly viewing of a beloved G-rated movie. July 21, 6 p.m. Free. 805-481-7339. bgcslo.org/events. Boys and Girls Clubs of South San Luis Obispo County Clubhouse, 1830 19th St., Oceano.

FIVE CITIES REPAIR CAFÉ Get free help fixing household appliances, smart phones, laptops, bikes, clothing, toys, etc. Knife and tool sharpening. Master Gardener available for plant advice. Bring your garden abundance to share. July 22 1-4:30 p.m. Free. 650-367-6780. repaircafe5cities.org. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.

PETE KELLEY’S “HISTORY OF AVILA

BEACH AND AVILA PIER” Pete Kelley, retired SLO County restaurateur, will reprise his recent Avila Beach history presentation, with additional focus on the Avila Pier. Hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar will be provided. Presented by the Friends of Avila Pier. July 20 6:30-8 p.m. Free. AvilaPier.org. San Luis Yacht Club, 443 Front St., Avila Beach, 805-595-2017.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS

Tours will give you a glimpse into the lives of Lighthouse Keepers and their families, while helping keep our jewel of the Central Coast preserved and protected. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/.

Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

SEA EXPLORERS SUMMER CAMP

New sessions start each week for Sea Explorers ages 5 to 12. Deep dive into a unique marine science subject exploring marine habitats, interacting with live animals, and conducting experiments each day to learn more about the wonders of our oceans. Mondays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through July 31 Varies. 805-457-5357.

centralcoastaquarium.com. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach.

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.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY FAIR

Features an interesting mix of both community oriented and educational fun. The fair also includes award-winning wines, fine art, and plenty of entertainment for both young and young at heart. Through July 16 santamariafairpark.com. Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria.

FOOD & DRINK

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BREAKFAST ON THE BAY A monthly occasion that brings together the passionate citizens and business owners of the greater Estero Bay region in one place to deepen connections and share information. Breakfast is included with ticket price. Third Wednesday of every month, 7:30-9 a.m. $20 per member; $25 per non-member. 805-772-4467. morrochamber.org. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay.

CRUMBL COOKIE AND WINE PAIRING

AT HARMONY CELLARS Celebrating the 34th anniversary with a Crumbl cookie and wine pairing. Enjoy a flight of three delicious Crumbl cookies paired with Harmony wines. Wine flights sold separately (complimentary for club members). While supplies, so reservations highly recommended. July 15 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $6 per cookie flight; wine sold separately. 805-927-1625. harmonycellars.com.

Harmony Cellars, 3255 Harmony Valley Rd., P.O. Box 2502, Harmony.

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. through May 31 Varies. 805-824-7383. morrobayfarmersmarket.com. Morro Bay Main Street Farmers Market, Main Street and Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

ONX WINES VINEYARD TOUR AND TASTING

Enjoy a private tour and tasting at the ONX Estate. The tour begins at the Tractor Shed with a portfolio tasting. From there your host will drive you around the vineyard in an off-road vehicle, allowing you to taste the wine right where it’s grown. Mondays, Thursdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 29 $45 per person. 805434-5607. onxwine.com/estate. ONX Estate Vineyard, 1200 Paseo Excelsus, Templeton.

PAINT AND SIP Please join ArtSocial805 at the Irish Oaks Mercantile for a relaxing evening of painting and sipping. Your ticket purchase includes all painting materials and your first glass of liquid relaxation plus an appetizer. Please call Irish Oaks Mercantile for tickets at 805-464-2616 or visit irishoakranch.com July 13 6:30-8:30 p.m. $55. 805-237-7959. artsocial805.com. Irish Oaks Mercantile, 7425 El Camino Real, Atascadero.

SUMMER WINE WALK Taste the diversity of the Downtown Paso Robles Wine District. 18 wineries pouring 11 Paso Robles AVAs with gourmet food pairings. July 15 4-7 p.m. my805tix.com. Paso Robles Downtown Wineries, Various locations, 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. 805-460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

WINE MOVIE NIGHT Come and enjoy a fun night of movies, $3 tri-tip sliders, a complimentary popcorn tasting, and pinot at Windward Vineyard. July 14 6-9 p.m. One bottle of wine for two admissions. 805-2392565. windwardvineyard.com. Windward Vineyard, 1380 Live Oak Rd., Paso Robles.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BASTILLE DAY: FRENCH HERITAGE

AT THE DALLIDET Get ready to be transported to Paris for the day. No passport or plane tickets required. The menu will be fine French cuisine, featuring vegetables from the Dallidet garden as well as French wine and cheeses. July 15, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. $75. 805-543-0638. historycenterslo.org/bastille. Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, 1185 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.

BRINGIN’ ON THE HEAT A celebration of spice and heat at the Public Market. Vendors will prepare their unique spicy dishes for all to buy and enjoy. Vote for your favorites at Rambling Spirits. July 22 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Depends on the vendor. eventbrite.com. SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo. DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo. GRAND OPENING: HOUSE OF BREAD’S SECOND LOCATION ON FARMHOUSE LANE From 9 to 11 a.m., enjoy $0.25

cinnamon rolls and more. The Still Kickin Band plays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 15 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-592-0255. farmhouse. houseofbread.com/. House of Bread, 1025 Farmhouse Lane, San Luis Obispo.

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, 805242-1167.

LOBSTERFEST 2023 Chamisal Vineyards’ annual Lobsterfest event is a quick to sell-out affair featuring an ocean-totable family-style lobster feast with an abundance of Chamisal’s best wines, hand shucked oysters, and stunning vineyard views. July 21, 6-8:30 p.m. and July 22 , 6-8:30 p.m. $265. chamisalvineyards.com/ events/lobsterfest-2023-july/. Chamisal

Vineyards, 7525 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-9463.

SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

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. 805-4392529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF SOUTH

SLO PRESENTS: SUMMER FEST Bring the whole family to this community event

for great food, games, makers, and more. July 22 , 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free admission. 805-481-7339. bgcslo.org/events. Burgers & More Co., 1262 Pacific Blvd., Oceano.

MUSIC

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE

A rockin’ blues dance party at Niffy’s Merrimaker every first, third, and now fifth Wednesdays. The Blues Asylum house band welcomes local, visiting, and newcomers to the blues groove. Spirits, beer, and wine, with outside food welcome. Every other Wednesday, 7-10 p.m. Free. 805-235-5223. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays

guitar-woven music that has an authentic feel with catchy riffs, a sweeping groove, and a compelling sound. July 23 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com. Sea Pines Golf Resort, 1945 Solano St., Los Osos. FLAVOR PACKET Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that has an authentic feel and an indie attitude and generates curiosity with catchy riffs, a sweeping groove, and a compelling sound. July 16, 12-4 p.m. Free. Castoro Cellars, 1315 N. Bethel Rd., Templeton, 805-238-0725, castorocellars.com.

FOREVER GREEN LIVE AT THE

LIBERTINE, MORRO BAY Enjoy the creative tunes of Forever Green, spectacular views, delicious eats, and fantastic drinks at one of Morro Bay’s most iconic pubs. July 22 6-9 p.m. Free with purchase. Libertine Brewing Co. (Morro Bay), 801 Embarcadero Way, Morro Bay, 805-772-0700.

LISTENING AS RITUAL Group listening sessions with musician/musicologist Ben Gerstein. Explore remarkable recordings of world music, nature field recording, MUSIC continued page 36

western classical and contemporary, and jazz, sharing and discussing inspiration and perspectives on the expressive power of peoples, cultures, animals and habitats through sonic experience. Every other Monday, 7-8:15 p.m. $10-$15 donation. 805-305-1229. leftcoastartstudio.com/. Left Coast Art Studio, 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos.

LIVE MUSIC WITH GUITAR WIZ AT LUNADA GARDEN BISTRO “Guitar

Wizard” Billy Foppiano plays a wide range of music, including blues, R&B, classic rock, and more. Fourth Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 805-900-5444. Lunada Garden Bistro, 78 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos.

MORRO BAY WHITE CAPS COMMUNITY BAND CONCERT Under the baton of conductor Brenda Hascall, the Morro Bay White Caps Community Band will perform a series of free concerts including pops, classical, and jazz music on the south T-Pier in Morro Bay. July 15 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; donations accepted. 916-337-9046. Morro Bay S. T Pier, 1185 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.

SONGWRITERS AT PLAY HOSTS SONG

CONTEST AT SCHOONERS The third round of this 10-month series. Up to 10 contestants play two songs each; three judges award three prizes, leading to a grand prize of $1,000 in the March 24 finale. No cover, no entry fee. Sign up in advance at stevekey57@gmail.com. July 18, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. 805-204-6821. songwritersatplay. com/events. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos.

SUMMER TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES

AT HARMONY CELLARS Start your weekend in Harmony with live music, food truck fare, and wine on the patio. Reservations required. Seating provided. Fridays, 5:15-7:15 p.m. through Sept. 8 $12$20. 805-927-1625. harmonycellars.com.

Harmony Cellars, 3255 Harmony Valley Rd., P.O. Box 2502, Harmony.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

BARREL ROOM CONCERT: STELLAR

BAND This group’s music is influenced by a diverse range of acts, from Fleetwood Mac, to Led Zeppelin, to Joe Walsh, the Steve Miller Band, Sublime, Johnny Cash, Miranda Lambert, and many others. July 16 4-6 p.m. my805tix.com. Cass Winery and Vineyard, 7350 Linne Rd., Paso Robles.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that has an authentic feel and an indie attitude and generates curiosity with catchy riffs, a sweeping groove, and a compelling sound. July 15 1-4 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com/. HammerSky Vineyards, 7725 Vineyard Drive, Paso Robles, 805-239-0930. Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that has an authentic feel. The sound is easy to listen to but also distinctive. July 22 12-3 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com. Riboli Family of San Antonio Winery, 2610 Buena Vista Drive, Paso Robles, 805-226-2600.

FRIDAY NIGHT DJ Weekly DJ series, with a different DJ every Friday. Presented by friends at Traffic Record store in Atascadero. Come listen, dance, drink, and unwind every Friday. All ages event; no cover charge. Fridays, 7-10 p.m. 805-4606042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

JOLON STATION BAND VARIETY SHOW

Come join Jolon Station Band every Thursday night in downtown Atascadero for a night of comedy, musical guests, prize wheels, and more. Thursdays, 8-10 p.m. $5 at the door. Raconteur Room, 5840 Traffic Way, Atascadero, 805-464-2584.

KELLYTOWN Enjoy Irish fiddle tunes, rockin pub-songs, Americana, and more.

July 15 7-10 p.m. No cover charge. 805400-5293. Bristols Cider House, 3220 El Camino Real, Atascadero.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

CHAMBER CONCERT 1: HUMMEL, FRANÇAIX, AND BEETHOVEN This program celebrates the quintet. July 23, 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets start at $29. 805-7813009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

EASTON EVERETT SOLO Enjoy some indie-acoustic, live music. Thursdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. eastoneverett.com. Big Sky Cafe, 1121 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo, (805)545-5401.

FAMILY CONCERT: APPALACHIAN SPRING Scott Yoo and Ryan Lawrence lead a family friendly performance of Aaron Copland’s ballet Appalachian Spring. This concert is open for all ages will last under one hour without an intermission. July 22

11 a.m.-noon All tickets $5; children sitting on a lap do not need a ticket. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

FESTIVAL MOZAIC OPENING NIGHT: APPALACHIAN SPRING To celebrate the opening of the 2023 Summer Music Festival, Scott Yoo and the Festival

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY BAND

The San Luis Obispo County Band performs a variety of music for the enjoyment of Farmer’s Market patrons. At the corner of Higuera and Nipomo during the third Thursdays of July, August, and September.

July 20, 6-8:45 p.m. Free admission. 630421-2556. San Luis Obispo Farmers Market, Broad and Higuera, San Luis Obispo.

SUNDAY MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO.

Enjoy live music by local favorites. Wine available by the flight, glass, or bottle. Sundays, 4-7 p.m. Ragtag Wine Co., 779 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-0774, ragtagwineco.com.

THOMAS BLUMBERG QUARTET LIVE

A group of LA-based musicians and educators. Each member is a full time performer and educator. July 13, 6-8 p.m. my805tix.com. Linnaea’s Cafe, 1110 Garden St., San Luis Obispo, 805-541-5888. A group of LA-based musicians and educators. Each member is a full time performer and educator. July 14 6:30 p.m. my805tix. com. The Carrisa, 736 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

DAVE BECKER QUARTET: LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE Dave Becker, Ken Husted, and Dean Giles are joined by Kristian Ducharme (Damon Castillo

LIGHTS, CAMERA, AUCTION

This year’s Santa Barbara County Fair runs through Sunday, July 16, at the Santa Maria Fairpark. The annual event features livestock auctions, carnival rides, food vendors, and more. To find out more about the fair’s full lineup of festivities, visit santamariafairpark.com. The Fairpark is located at 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria. —C.W.

musicians will join forces with the Movement Arts Collective for a new setting of Copland’s Appalachian Spring, choreographed by Ryan Lawrence. July 22 , 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets start at $29. 805-7813009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

FILIPPONI RANCH WINERY WITH THE SKYLITES Enjoy some Sunday afternoon music with The SkyLites at a beautiful outdoor venue in the canyon behind the fabulous Filipponi Ranch Winery. July 23, 1-4 p.m. Filipponi Ranch, 1850 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo.

LIVE MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO. Enjoy live music by local favorites. Wine available by the flight, glass, or bottle. ThursdaysSaturdays, 6-9 p.m. Ragtag Wine Co., 779 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-0774, ragtagwineco.com.

LIVE MUSIC FROM GUITAR WIZ BILLY FOPPIANO AND MAD DOG Join “Guitar

Wiz” Billy Foppiano and his trusty side kick Mad Dog for a mix of blues, R&B, and more.

Saturdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 805-544-2100. Bon Temps Creole Cafe, 1819 Osos Street, San Luis Obispo, bontempscreolecafe.com/ index.htm.

MO BETTA SUMMER JAZZ SERIES

Visit site for tickets and more details. July 23 3 p.m. my805tix.com. Antigua Brewing Company, 1009 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

Band, 41k). Featuring the rich vocals of Nicole Stromsoe. July 22 , 2-5:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

FM PRESENTS: RACHEL BAIMAN

Americana singer, songwriter, and multiinstrumentalist Rachel Baiman returns to Festival Mozaic to headline this show at See Canyon Fruit Ranch. July 23 2-4 p.m. Tickets start at $57. festivalmozaic.org. See Canyon Fruit Ranch, 2345 See Canyon Rd., Avila Beach, 805-595-2376.

FRIDAY NIGHT HAPPY HOURS: LIVE

MUSIC Enjoy Friday Night Happy Hour at Avila Bay Athletic Club. July 14, 6-8 p.m. Free. avilabayclub.com. Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, 805-595-7600.

KARAOKE SATURDAYS Take advantage of karaoke every Saturday. Saturdays, 3-7 p.m. 805-723-5550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo.

KARAOKE WEDNESDAYS Take advantage of karaoke every Wednesday evening. Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, 805-925-3500.

SUMMER OF LOVE CELEBRTION Have a fun day in the beautiful Victoria Estate Garden. With music, poetry, stories. July 16 12-1:45 p.m. Donations accepted. 805-7884777. unity5cities.org/. Unity 5 Cities, 789 Valley Road, Arroyo Grande. ∆

FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY FAIR

Paso Robles Youth Arts Center stages

The Wizard of Oz

L. Frank Baum’s classic fantasy novel is getting a new theatrical treatment with the Paso Robles Youth Arts Center’s upcoming production of The Wizard of Oz slated to premiere on Friday, July 28. Performances of the show are scheduled to run through Saturday, Aug. 5.

Described in press materials as suitable for all ages, this stage adaptation follows the adventures of Dorothy, who is transported to the magical land of Oz and must find a way back home to Kansas.

Tickets to the show are $15 in advance or $20 at the door for adults, and $15 in advance and at the door for students.

Performances of the show will be held on July 28 at 6 p.m., July 29 at 2 and 6 p.m., Aug. 4 at 6 p.m., and Aug. 5 at 2 and 6 p.m.

To find out more about the Paso Robles Youth Arts Center’s production of The Wizard of Oz visit pryoutharts.org. The venue is located at 3201 Spring St., Paso Robles.

Gallery at Marina Square showcases paintings, ceramics, photos in July exhibits

During most of July, three different exhibits are on display at the Gallery at Marina Square in Morro Bay. Works by the venue’s three featured artists—oil painter Patricia Newton, ceramicist Thomas Mackenzie Brown, and photographer Gregory Siragusa— will remain up through Saturday, July 29.

An award-winning painter, Newton knew early on “that art would somehow become an intrinsic part of my life,” the artist said in a statement.

The Central Coast is where Newton “fell in love with rolling hills that reach to the sea and began to pursue lifelong dreams of becoming a professional artist,” said the artist, who is currently a member of both the Portrait Society of America and Oil Painters of America.

With his ceramics work, Brown aims to “produce new, exciting colors and versions of crystalline glazed pieces that are all well made, beautiful to look at,” according to press materials.

For Siragusa, photography is “an opportunity to marvel at all the beauty in the world.”

“Birds, sunsets, mountains, oceans—each offers a journey into the sublime,” the photographer said in a statement.

For more info on the current exhibits at Gallery at Marina Square, visit galleryatmarinasquare.com. The gallery is located at 601 Embarcadero, suite 10, Morro Bay. ∆

—Caleb Wiseblood

BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

Ducky darling

Honk! Jr. by SLO REP brings lighthearted laughs and a message of self-love to San Luis Obispo

Shannon Peters knows everyone’s familiar with the story of the ugly duckling.

e Hans Christian Andersen classic is a nursery rhyme most people have heard at least once by the time they start rst grade, but San Luis Obispo Repertory eatre’s newest production puts a musical twist on the classic tale.

“It’s a great little summer musical experience,” Peters said. “ e main character—the titular ugly duckling—embarks on this great adventure that is really brought to life by our cast and the music in the show.”

Honk! Jr. is the latest show at SLO Rep in downtown SLO. It blends together the classic tale with musical whimsy that director Peters feels makes it the perfect summer experience.

“It’s a great rst show for anyone unfamiliar with the world of theater,” she said. “It’s an especially great way for the youth to be exposed to theater in general.”

e show, which runs from July 14 to 23 with showings Wednesday through Saturday at 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m., features an allyouth cast from the SLO Rep’s Academy of Creative eatre (ACT).

It is not the rst adaptation of e Ugly Duckling that features full-scale musical numbers. ere is a Honk! that originated in the UK, but she said that this particular production is more impactful for both the audience and actors.

“ e play is really special for kids since they are at that point in their life where the themes of the show—things like self-worth and expression— are things they are just starting to experience in the day-to-day moments in their lives,” she said. “ ere is this correlation I am seeing them make as we progress that makes this whole thing really special.”

e music composed by George Stiles ranges in genre and style, and Peters said that the actors have really embraced making the musical numbers t the scene they belong to.

“Some of the movements are

See the show

Get tickets to see Honk! Jr. at SLO REP (located at 888 Morro Street, San Luis Obispo) by visiting slorep.org/shows/ honk-jr-a-musical-tale-of-the-uglyduckling. For more information on future shows visit slorep.org.

traditional, others are vaudeville, and we even have some light modern compositions,” she said. “ ere is a scene with an army of geese that has a military-style composition and a scene with a bullfrog that has this sweeping melodramatic composition, so there is just a ton of range in the show.”

e show also features a set design with the goal of making performing the show as fun as watching it.

“We have big set pieces like this huge dock on the ‘water’ our stage designer made that the kids love acting on,” she said. “Having things like that is super important because the stage at SLO Rep is di erent from the rehearsal space we use at the ACT headquarters.”

From the musical numbers to the unique stage design, Peters feels excited to be directing the young cast on the same stage she once performed on.

“I’ve been up on this stage as a performer before so it has been cool to direct where the actors are moving,” she said. “Being super familiar with the stage really allows me to feel good about what I can work with in directing alongside the choreography and musical coordinators.”

Showtime!

Send gallery, stage, and cultrual festivities to arts@newtimesslo.com.

Honk! Jr. is just one part of the ACT program’s renewed e orts to bring musical theater to the youth of San Luis Obispo and is something that Peters— who serves as the education coordinator for the ACT program—said they have been able to do now more than ever.

“ e ACT program is a SLO REP youth theater program that traditionally does after-school programs and summer/winter break events for youth looking to get involved with local theater,” she said. “We had a bit of a lull in the pandemic period, but this summer we have really brought the program back with even more opportunities prior to when we stopped, and the response has been great so far.”

Peters said the increased interest and number of programs ACT has put on has led to a unique blend of seasoned ACT program participants and new faces for Honk! Jr.

“Most of the people in this

production have been in classes for a while, but there are a few new faces,” Peters said. “ e one’s that just started have never been on a stage of this size before.”

One of her main focuses is to help the youth actors learn their parts and work with them on an individual basis to help them make the most out of their own unique skill sets.

“Part of directing is making sure they feel comfortable,” Peters said. “ e stage presence and awareness don’t always come naturally, so it has been cool to see them learn.”

Don’t expect any fully feathered friends on the stage, however, as Peters said one of the more unique aspects of this production is the distinct lack of full animal costumes.

“One of my favorite parts of the show is that [the actors] are not in bird costumes,” she said. “It really helps showcase the humanity of these characters and the actors that play them.”

at humanity—in a play based on an animalcentric story—is what Peters hopes sticks with the viewers the most.

“It helps bridge the gap for people seeing it who maybe aren’t all that interested in seeing a show where the actors are covered in feathers,” she said with a laugh. “When you have these big over-arching themes of self-love and the unconditional love of a parent for who you are at your core, I think it’s really important to have the actors just act as themselves without the costume to reinforce that.” ∆

Sta Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas is thinking about ducks. Reach him at arosas@newtimesslo.com.

KID CAST Honk! Jr. features a cast of youth actors from SLO Rep’s Academy of Creative Theatre—which puts on summer/winter shows and after-school events throughout the year.

AWESOME ACT In the past, the Academy of Creative Theatre also put on a SLO Rep production of A Wrinkle in Time

PHOTO BY RYLO MEDIA DESIGN, RYAN C. LOYD

FUNTIME FOWL Honk! Jr. at SLO Rep promises a fun musical time for theater enjoyers of all ages and experiences.

Ride or die

JOY RIDE

What’s it rated? R

Adele Lim (screenwriter of Crazy Rich Asians) directs this comedy that follows four Asian American friends—Audrey (Ashley Park), Lolo (Sherry Cola), Kat (Stephanie Hsu), and Deadeye (Sabrina Wu)—as they bond over a trip through Asia in search of one of their birth mothers. (95 min.)

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price

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

Glen Joy Ride is a lot raunchier than I expected, but it’s funny as heck with a lot of heart. e story begins when 5-year-old Audrey (Lennon Yee) meets 5-year-old Lolo (Belle Zhang), the only two Asian kids in the lily-white White Falls suburb of Seattle. Lolo is brash and fearless and the daughter of Chinese immigrants, Jenny (Debbie Fan) and Wey Chen (Kenneth Liu), and Audrey is the eager-to-please adoptee from China to white parents, Mary (Annie Mumolo) and Joe Sullivan (David Denman). We brie y witness them as they grow up, two peas in a pod. e real story, however, begins with Audrey, now an ambitious lawyer hoping to make partner, who is tasked with traveling to China to land a big client. She nagles Lolo, an artist who specializes in uncomfortable sex-charge pieces who’s living in Audrey’s converted garage, to come along as her translator. Lolo, in turn, invites her cousin, Deadeye, a socially awkward K-pop fanatic, to join, and they also pick up Kat, Audrey’s college bestie, who’s now an actress on a Chinese soap opera in love with its hunky male star, Clarence (Desmond Chieng). e players now in place, they set o on a crazy adventure that will teach them the limits of friendship and make them question the meaning of identity and being Asian. Anna is lm truly was a joy ride—I had so much fun watching mishap after mishap

LOVE & DEATH

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Max

This story has had an upswing in attention the last few years. Candy starring Jessica Biel as the titular character came out in 2022 and told the same story of what really happened in this sensational case from 1980. I enjoyed that version as well, but have to give kudos to Elizabeth Olsen here. Her performance is fantastic. She isn’t alone there. Jesse Plemons plays her lover, Allan (aka her victim’s husband), and he’s impressive in the role. Candy’s husband, Pat, is played with reserved skill by Patrick Fugit, and Betty, Candy’s victim, is played with equal talent by Lily Rabe.

on this squad’s adventure. Audrey feels pressure as an adoptee to always be perfect, ambitious, and overachieving while Lolo is happy to coast along making art and living life one moment at a time with not much planned at all. is is going to feel familiar to a lot of people who are lifelong friends with someone they met very young. A lot of times we grow into being very di erent people yet remain inexplicably close, and that’s true for these two. ey’re soon on their big adventure to China that Audrey insists will be strictly a work trip, but you can guess how that will turn out! Once our foursome is all together, things start to fall apart, and when Audrey can’t close the deal with Chao (Ronny Chieng) because of her disconnection from her Chinese birth family, Lolo steps in with a plan to track down Audrey’s birth mom. A far-fetched scheme? Sure. But I had a lot of fun watching these four try to pull it o , despite one roadblock after the next.

Glen Speaking of far-fetched, their

POLITE SOCIETY

What’s it rated? PG-13

When? 2023

adventures get very outlandish, from being rescued by a basketball team that leads to promiscuous sex to pretending they’re K-pop stars to get past airport security. Along the way, viewers discover Asians are not a monolith, Audrey discovers she’s not who she thought she was, and the four women discover just how di erent they are but also how much they mean to one another. Yes, the whole a air is crass, but if you liked Bridesmaids (2011), you’ll love it. Anna Total Bridesmaids meets e Hangover vibes with Joy Ride for sure. If you don’t mind things getting a bit raunchy or humor that some may consider lowbrow, and you don’t let wildly unlikely situations ruin your fun, this movie is meant for you. I have no doubt I’ll see this run across one of our streaming platforms at some point and will happily say yes to watching it again. ∆

Senior Sta Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Split Screen. Glen compiles listings. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

We get to know these two families and their small-town life that’s interwoven with a big presence in their church. The unfortunate thing about this small life is that Candy gets bored, and her solution—an affair—winds up yielding disastrous results for everyone involved. Whether you believe Candy’s story that the murder happened in self-defense or believe her to be a jealous woman who let evil get the best of her, this cast made this sad case compelling to watch. If you watched Candy the story in Love and Death may feel repetitive, but it’s worth the watch for Olson’s performance alone. (seven approx. 50-min. episodes)

—Anna

CONKNIFING Elizabeth Olsen stars as Candy Montgomery, the philandering Texas housewife who killed her friend with an ax in 1980, in Love & Death, streaming on Max.

Where’s it showing? Streaming on Peacock or rentable at Redbox and on Amazon Prime

Writer-director Nida Manzoor (We Are Lady Parts) helms this action comedy about British-Pakistani teenager Ria Khan (Priya Kansara), who’s determined to save her older sister, Lena (Ritu Arya), from an impending marriage she believes is into a corrupt family. The best way I can describe it is Bollywood meets martial art meets British snobbery films. High schooler Ria is precocious with an overactive imagination. She dreams of becoming a stuntwoman and records and posts social media videos of herself doing fighting moves.

DON’T CROSS HER Priya Kansara stars as Ria Khan, a teenager who dreams of being a stuntwoman and who’s determined to save her older sister from marrying into the wrong family, in Polite Society

Her besties, Clara (Seraphina Beh) and Alba (Ella Bruccoleri), willingly go along with Ria’s outlandish schemes, drawn in by her relentless exuberance. Ria’s true bestie, however, is her sister Lena, an art school dropout who’s drifting through life, trying to discover a new passion, which she eventually finds in Salim Shah (Akshay Khanna), a geneticist and scion of a well-to-do family whose matriarch, Raheela (a delightfully devilish Nimra Bucha), has a conniving hidden agenda.

As Salim and Lena’s wedding draws closer, Ria becomes desperate to prove the Shahs are evil, but as she resorts to crazier methods of stopping the marriage, she strains all her important relationships as the film hurdles towards its battle royale conclusion. It’s a joyous hoot! (104 min.) ∆ —Glen

Starring: Harrison Ford, Mads Mikkelsen, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Antonio Banderas

FRIENDS INDEED (Left to right) Kat (Stephanie Hsu), Deadeye (Sabrina Wu), Audrey (Ashley Park), and Lolo (Sherry Cola) experience the power of friendship in Joy Ride, screening in local theaters.

COURTESY PHOTO BY ED ARAQUEL/LIONSGATE

COURTESY PHOTO BY JAKE GILES NETTER/HBO MAX

COURTESY PHOTO BY PARISA TAGHIZADEH/FOCUS FEATURES

Music

BY GLEN STARKEY

Feel the heat

The Mid-State Fair is about the raise the temperature

It’s July, it’s getting hot, and that means it’s time for the California Mid-State Fair, “the biggest little fair anywhere.” According to my weather app, Paso Robles is expecting temps in the low to mid-90s for the first couple days of the fair. The first act on the Chumash Grandstand Arena on Wednesday, July 19, is Tim McGraw and special guest Annie Bosko (7:30 p.m.; $50 to $175 at midstatefair.com).

This is McGraw’s eighth trip to the fair, and he’s hot off his popular TV series 1883, a prequel to Yellowstone. He’s also had roles in films such as The Blind Side, Friday Night Lights, and Tomorrowland, though of course he’s best known for his country music. He’s released 16 albums, 10 of which climbed to No. 1 on the Top Country Albums charts. He’s also got three Grammy Awards under his big-buckled cowboy belt.

With hits like “Don’t Take the Girl,” “Please Remember Me,” “Live Like You Were Dying,” “Real Good Man,” and “The Cowboy in Me,” he’s got a deep catalog of crowd-pleasing hits.

Bosko was named an artist to watch by Rolling Stone magazine for her Beatles-esque classic country sounds.

Lauren Daigle with special guest Jon Foreman play the Chumash Grandstand Arena on Thursday, July 20 (7:30 p.m.; $40 to $130 at midstatefair.com). Daigle, also a Grammy Award winner, is a world-wide pop music superstar who’ll perform her smash hits “You Say,” “Rescue,” her current single, “Thank God I Do,” as well as songs from her recent self-titled album.

Foreman is the lead singer and founding member of the Grammy Award winning altrock band Switchfoot.

Vina Robles hits its stride

Vina Robles Amphitheatre has five more concerts this month, and the first two of the five are this week starting with Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit on Saturday, July 15 (8 p.m.; $55 to $95 at vinaroblesamphitheatre.com) with Deer Tick opening.

Isbell was a member of Drive-By Truckers for six years, but he’s had even more success as a solo artist backed by the 400 Unit, with whom he’s won four Grammy Awards. They’re currently touring in support of their sixth album, Weathervanes, which was released last month.

Isbell’s press materials are calling Weathervanes a “collection of grown-up songs: Songs about adult love, about change, about the danger of nostalgia and the interrogation of myths, about cruelty and regret and redemption. Some will make you cry alone in your car and others will make you sing along with thousands of strangers in a big summer pavilion, united in the great miracle of being alive.”

“There is something about boundaries on this record,” Isbell said. “As you mature, you still attempt to keep the ability to love somebody fully and completely while you’re growing into an adult and learning how to love yourself.”

The album’s first single, “Death Wish,” is about loving someone suffering from depression: “Did you ever love a woman with a death wish?/ Something in her eyes, like flipping off a light switch/ Everybody dies, but you gotta find a reason to carry on/ Oh, and did you ever catch her climbing on the rooftop/ Higher than a kite, dead of winter in a tank top?/ I don’t wanna fight with you, baby, but I won’t leave you alone.”

Rough stuff.

Multi-Grammy Award-winning alt rock act Train plays on Wednesday, July 19 (7:30 p.m.; $64 to $149 at vinaroblesamphitheatre. com) with Better Than Ezra opening. Train is perhaps best known for their 2009 global mega hit “Hey, Soul Sister.”

Shiny and Green

Numbskull and Good Medicine have two tight shows cooked up for you this week at The Siren starting with Shinyribs on Wednesday, July 19 (7 p.m.; 21-and-older; $22 at goodmedicinepresents.com). How to describe the sonic miracle that is Shinyribs and its colorful frontman Kevin Russell? Yes, it’s horn-driven Memphis-style soul; yes, there’s some Texas blues; yes, some NOLAstyle funk, some Big Band swing, some roots rock—it’s a swampy stew of foot stompin’ fun.

The band is touring in support of the brand new Transit Damage, which in press materials Russell described as “the record I’ve been trying to make for most of my career. This is a collection of songs that relate to each other in myriad ways: musically, lyrically, emotionally. It’s a real throwback to

the era of complete albums and draws from songs I’ve written throughout my life. I hope listeners can take the time to fully immerse themselves in the whole thing.”

Color Green plays a Numbskull and Good Medicine show at The Siren on Thursday, July 14 (8 p.m.; 21-and-older; $13 at goodmedicinepresents.com). This LA-based rock duo is Noah Kohll (Current Joys, Young Guv, Surf Curse, Dark Tea) and Corey Madden (Richard Rose, Grave Flowers Bongo Band), who draw inspiration from the Allman Brothers, Acetone, the Grateful Dead, “and other acts from the dusty storage boxes of their attics.”

Also at The Siren, check out Through Being Cool, a DEVO tribute, and Talking Threads, a Talking Heads tribute, on Friday, July 14 (7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; $20 at tixr.

COWBOY UP The California Mid-State Fair opens on July 19 , with Grammy Award-winning country star Tim

com). Get your ’80s on!

Lunar Radio plays a free afternoon show of classic rock into the ’90s cover songs on Saturday, July 15 (2 to 5 p.m.; 21-and-older), followed by another free show, the Alastair Greene Blues Experience (7:30 p.m.; 21-andolder). The Santa Barbara native’s prolific career is rolling toward its third decade. He’s toured the world with the legendary Alan Parsons Live Project from 2010 to ’17, as well as stints with Starship featuring Mickey Thomas.

The Taproots plays The Siren’s free Sunday summer concert series on Sunday, July 16 (2 to 4:30 p.m.; 21-and-older), bringing their creative songwriting, strong harmonies, and innovative guitar work to the stage.

Mashup mania

SLO Brew Live presents the Long Beach Dub Allstars on their Echo Mountain High tour with Jakobs Castle on Friday, July 14 (doors at 7 p.m.; 18-and-older; $25 at ticketweb.com). LBDAs are pioneers who mix reggae, ska, and rock. The group began with childhood friends and now ex-members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh, who early in their career formed Sublime with singer Bradley Nowell, laying the framework for the Dub Allstars’ sound. Current LBDAs member Marshall Goodman was also a frequent Sublime contributor. Jakobs Castle is passion project of artist Jakob Nowell (son of late Sublime vocalist Bradley Nowell).

In other mashup news, amazing metal and mariachi act Metalachi plays SLO Brew Rock this Sunday, July 16 (doors at 7:45 p.m.; 21-and-older; $22 at ticketweb.com). These guys are a hoot with great costumes, killer musicianship, and 1,000-watt stage presence.

More music …

Concerts in the Plaza continues this Friday, July 14, with opening act Graybill at 5 p.m. followed by the Damon Castillo Band from 6 to 8 p.m. (all ages; free). Graybill has a very cool Jack Johnson vibe, with breezy beach songs. Castillo’s band plays jazzy rock,

McGraw playing the Chumash Grandstand Arena.

COURTESY PHOTO BY ROBBY KLEIN

WEATHER FORECAST Vina Robles Amphitheatre hosts Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit on July 15 , touring in support of their new album, Weathervanes

COURTESY PHOTO BY DANNY CLINCH

COURTESY PHOTO BY WYATT MCSPADDEN

SWAMP FUNK Numbskull and Good Medicine present horn-driven genre-jumpers Shinyribs on July 19 , at The Siren.

funk, and soul. Both these guys are terrific songwriters and performers. This may be the season highlight of this well-attended and loved concert series.

Meanwhile up north on Friday, July 14, Dr. Danger pianist Brent Dannells will play a solo gig at A-Town’s Raconteur Room (8 p.m.). On Sunday, July 30, Dannells will play Puffers of Pismo (5 to 8 p.m.). “Both shows I’ll be accompanying myself with Bertha, my old electronic piano, no drum machines or loops.

your feet. “These compositions cross both genres and decades, creating a live guessing game for audiences to ‘name that tune,’” the band explained. “Britney Spears and Black Sabbath? Check. Lorde and Dr. Dre? Got that too. Daft Punk and ZZ Top?”

The Cliffnotes will party on the patio at Paso’s Halter Ranch Vineyards this Sunday, July 16, when they bring their New Orleans-style boogie blues to the winery (noon to 3 p.m.; free). The group has a powerhouse vocalist in Valerie Johnson, who played with Big Brother and the Holding Company to sing Janis Joplin songs. The Cliffnotes are led by Cliff “Crawdaddy” Stepp, who wrote some songs for Pure Prairie League. Get ready to boogie.

The Matthias Clark-led Baywood Jones plays Thursday, July 20, at Morro Bay’s The Mosaic Theater (7 p.m. concert, 9 p.m. after party where attendees are invited to “hang n jam”). Their new song, “Sparks,” is a trippy, jammy, jazzy sonic soundscape. Check it out at americanriverrecords.com/dl and enter code “t6zg-qmm2.”

Calling all bands!

If you’re a musician or part of a band, two important opportunities to increase your exposure are coming up. For starters, The Whale Rock Music & Art Festival, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 16 and 17, is now accepting applications from bands who want to win a Jam in the Van live video and fill the festival’s final slot on the lineup. Submit your entry by going to jaminthevan.com/ whalerockcontest2023.

Sound out!

Send

At the Raconteur, I’ll be drawing heavily from the blues, rock, and Americana traditions. At Puffer’s, I’ll be focusing on jazz standards. Both shows will also feature some of my originals. There is no cover charge, but tips are gratefully accepted.”

One of the most amazingly entertaining local ensembles will descend on Castoro Cellars this Saturday, July 15 (7 p.m.; $15 at castorocellars.com). I’m talking about Brass Mash, the horns, winds, and percussion group that mashes two or more popular and recognizable songs into one tightly arranged energetic and infectious track that will have you on

It’s also time to submit your recordings to the 2023 New Times Music Awards, which is accepting entries starting on Thursday, July 20, through Monday, Aug. 7. You can enter up to 13 songs in the six genre categories and the songwriters contest, as well as one album. Genres include Country/Folk/Americana, Rock/Alternative, Hip-Hop/Rap, R&B/ Blues, Open, and Youth. Winners will play a showcase at SLO Brew Rock on Friday, Nov. 3. You can find the rules at newtimesslo.com/ sanluisobispo/NTMARules/Page. ∆

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

STARKEY from page 40

HISTORIC SLO Brew Live presents the Long Beach Dub Allstars with opener Jakobs Castle on July 14 , bringing connection to famed band Sublime.

SMOOTH OPERATOR Concerts in the Plaza continues July 14 , with the jazz-informed funk, rock, and soul sounds of the Damon Castillo Band.

COURTESY PHOTO BY BARRY GOYETTE

No baking required

Local entrepreneur April Bodine brings her dough-licious desserts to downtown SLO

The Dough Connection’s edible cookie dough, scooped into bowls and cones like ice cream, is a hit in Morro Bay.

Proprietor April Bodine of Atascadero is hoping for a similar reception at her new shop in San Luis Obispo.

Fresh off its grand opening in June, the business is welcoming return customers who begged Bodine to open another location, as well as passersby intrigued by the idea of eating raw dough.

“Reactions to cookie dough vary,” Bodine said. “Most people are very excited to have cookie dough presented in a variety of flavors that they can guilt-free eat raw.”

However, she said, people either love it or they don’t.

“We don’t really see much middle ground there,” she said. “That’s why we also make baked options and customize orders to get people what they want.”

Bodine’s batter-based treats don’t contain raw ingredients.

“We use heat-treated flour, no eggs, and no preservatives, making our cookie dough safe to eat raw but also giving you that classic cookie dough taste,” she said.

For sweet and unique treats

The Dough Connection is located at 1075 Court St., unit 130, in San Luis Obispo and 913 Embarcadero Road in Morro Bay. Current hours are noon to 7 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, and until 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The SLO location is closed Tuesday. For more information, visit the-dough-connection.square.site. Follow the company on Instagram and Facebook @thedoughconnection805.

The eatery’s most popular selection is classic chocolate chip cookie dough. Other options include white or chocolate birthday cake, cookies and cream, glutenfree cinnamon oatmeal, peanut butter with M&Ms, and a slew of rotating and seasonal flavors.

For guests who prefer baked or partially baked desserts, consider cookie doughtopped brownies, stuffed cookies, and cereal bars. A full ice cream counter abuts the cookie dough tubs, providing additional sweet ideas, such as mix-and-match ice cream and dough cones, shakes, soda floats, and warm cookies a la mode.

Custom orders for myriad desserts, including cakes, cupcakes, giant cookies, truffles, and more, are gladly accepted.

Bodine’s entrance into the edible cookie dough market was an unexpected consequence of California’s COVID19-related stay-athome mandate in 2020.

“I often say I accidentally started a business during the pandemic,” she said. “Although this was a challenging time for many people, I found that people were seeking comfort, connection, and joy. My original career and background is in early childhood

education, where I had been working locally in the field up until the pandemic.”

Being forced to stay at home with her children motivated her to “bring my family and myself some joy by making desserts,” she continued. “This included my favorite treat—edible cookie dough.”

That hobby turned into a small business with support from family and friends.

“We were lucky enough to find our beautiful location in Morro Bay after our first year in business and opened our first brickand-mortar in August of 2021,” Bodine said. “I grew up in Morro Bay, so having a business there felt so nostalgic and at home. We have

the best view around, with lots of windows right on the bay overlooking the water and Morro Rock.”

Since founding her business—the first and only edible cookie dough shop on the Central Coast, according to Bodine— she has overcome numerous personal and professional challenges.

“Finding and retaining staff, sourcing ingredients, outrageous ingredient cost increases, and coming out of a pandemic were some of the business challenges we faced,” she said. “Personally, I was going

FLAVOR continued page 43

TASTE A TRIO For $6.50, customers can enjoy a flight of edible cookie batter at The Dough Connection, with locations in Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo. Crowd pleasers include, from left, birthday cake, classic chocolate chip, and chocolate birthday cake.

NEW KID ON COURT April Bodine’s recently opened The Dough Connection replaces Mon Ami Crepe Bar at the Court Street Mall, sandwiched between Higuera and Monterey streets in San Luis Obispo.

Flavor

The Dough Connection cereal bars

Servings: 16 squares

• 45 marshmallows

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 6 cups cereal of choice: Cocoa Krispies, Rice Krispies, Fruity Pebbles, Malt-O-Meal S’mores Cereal (pictured), etc.

• Optional add-ins: mini marshmallows, sprinkles, chocolate chips, Oreos, etc.

Place marshmallows and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 2 to 3 minutes until marshmallows are puffed up and butter is melted. Tip: Microwaving will give you soft puffy marshmallows creating a soft gooey cereal bar vs. melting them over the stove, which will produce a chewy cereal bar. Add 6 cups of cereal and stir until incorporated. If adding any mix-ins, now is the time.

Spray an 8-by-8-inch pan with cooking spray and add the cereal and marshmallow mix. Press the cereal mix evenly into the pan. Tip: Spray a Ziplock bag (open it and put your hand inside like a glove) or use a food glove with cooking spray to press the cereal into the pan without it sticking to your hands or spoon.

Let the cereal bars sit at room temperature or in the fridge, slice, and enjoy plain, or enhance them with your favorite flavor of The Dough Connection cookie dough. Use the dough as a dip or spread it between bars for a sandwich. ∆

through a divorce, raising two kids, and had a terrible accident that left me with two broken legs and months in a wheelchair. We learned and grew through all these challenges and came out stronger for it.”

After a couple years, it was time to grow and expand, she said, and customers had been asking for a SLO location.

One such customer, Alisha Anderson of Arroyo Grande, is thrilled to have a shop closer to home.

“I first tried The Dough Connection at the

grand opening of the Morro Bay location, … and I’ve been a fan ever since,” she said. “I love that the shop offers flights with smaller portions so you can try multiple flavors.”

Anderson also hits the The Dough Connection booth at Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market every Thursday night. Her favorite treats are Fruity Pebbles cereal bars, birthday cake cookie dough, and the Brookie—a brownie-stuffed chocolate chip cookie.

“April is an amazing human, businesswoman, mom, and friend,” she

added. “She inspires me with her drive and passion to bring the community a fun atmosphere with delicious goodies.”

Bodine also opens up her shops to artists, particularly those on staff. Employee Nicole Jem’s mixed-media and oil paintings are currently featured at both locations.

“I’ve been [at The Dough Connection] the longest as an employee and I float between both Morro Bay and SLO shops,” said Jem, who was raised in Morro Bay and currently lives in SLO.

When not scooping dough, Jem creates art pieces that “are like little gems of my personality, experiences, and interests all combined into a painting,” she said. “Common themes that usually show up in my artwork are transformation, growth, progression, and embracing one’s true self.”

Bodine is proud to use her space to support her employees and may extend the opportunity to other local artists in the future.

“We look forward to being a part of Art After Dark, as well as hosting some meet-the-artist nights where [Jem] brings even more of her art to showcase and sell.”

SLO County Arts’ Art After Dark self-guided walk takes place the first Friday of every month.

“Our goal is to serve nostalgic desserts with a twist that the

whole family can enjoy” and be a place where people can come to connect, she said.

Flavor Writer Cherish Whyte enjoyed The Dough Connection and memories of stealing batter from Mom’s mixing bowl, without the guilt. Reach her at cwhyte@newtimesslo.com.

FLAVOR from page 42

2012 HONDA CRV AWD LX

cloth. #603671

2016 HONDA CRV ES SUV

2.4 4cyl, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, pseat, mn alloys, dk blue, gray cloth, 108k. #703401

2012 JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA 4WD

3.6 V6, 5spd, at, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, so top w/removable hard top, 125k, prem whls, blue, sharp. #106460 $18,988

2014 JEEP WRANGLER WILLYS 4WD

3.6 V6, 5spd, at, ac, ps, tow, Windy prem whls, off road customization, red, black so top, exc servicing. #297873 $24,988

3.0 V6, Turbo, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/ fm/cd, 2pseats, anthracite

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, the Pismo Beach Planning Commission will hold a public hearing in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, for the following purpose:

PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA:

A. Address: 200 Ebb Tide Lane (APN 010 152 063)

Applicant: Rick Jhaj

Project No.: P22 000078

Description: Coastal Development Permit and Architectural Review Permit for a new single family dwelling, and Categorical Exemption 2023 017. The project is within the Coastal Zone and is appealable to the Coastal Commission.

Environmental Review

In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), it has been determined that the project is categorically exempt pursuant to Section 15303(a) of the CEQA Guidelines regarding new construction of a single family dwelling.

B. Address: 460 South Dolliver Street (APN 005 241 058)

Applicant: Sky River RV, Randy Harding

Project No.: P23 000024

Description: Conditional Use Permit for a recreational vehicle retail use, and Categorical Exemption 2023 018. The project is within the Coastal Zone and is appealable to the Coastal Commission.

Environmental Review

In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), it has been determined that the project is categorically exempt pursuant to Section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines regarding existing facilities.

C. Address: Citywide

Applicant: City of Pismo Beach

Project No.: P18 000116

Description: General Plan/Local Coastal Program

Update and Final Environmental Impact Report, including Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations. The project is within the Coastal Zone and requires certification by the Coastal Commission.

Environmental Review

In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an Environmental Impact Report was prepared for the project. The Environmental Impact Report provides information regarding the potential environmental impacts of the project and was circulated through the State Clearinghouse for a review period of February 1, 2022, through March 18, 2022 (SCH#: 2021010158).

You have a right to comment on this project and its effect on our community. Interested persons are invited to participate in the hearing or otherwise express their views and opinions regarding the proposed project. Emailed comments may be submitted to planningcommission@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 Community Development Department / Planning Division 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 805 773 7005 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 this project are available for public review from the Planning Division Office, by emailing the Community Development Department Administrative Secretary at lchristiansen@ pismobeach.org. The meeting agenda and staff report will be available no later than the Friday before the meeting and may be obtained upon request by mail or by visiting www. pismobeach.org/agenda. The Planning Commission meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and streamed on the City’s website.

PLEASE NOTE:

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 Lindsay Christiansen, Community Development Department Administrative Secretary, at lchristiansen@pismobeach.org or 805 773 4658

Lindsay Christiansen Administrative Secretary July

13, 2023

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS

The San Luis Obispo County Assessor delivered to the County Auditor‑Controller the 2023 24 (Roll Year) secured assessment roll. Any interested party may inspect said assessment roll during regular office hours at the County Auditor‑Controller’s Office.

An assessment appeal application can be found online at https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/ Departments/Administrative Office/Clerk of the Board/Clerk of the Board Services/Assessment Appeals.aspx. The application shall be filed within the time period from July 2, 2023 to September 15, 2023 with the Clerk of the Assessment Appeals Board. Said application must be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Assessment Appeals Board by 5:00 PM on Friday, September 15, 2023 or postmarked on or before Friday, September 15, 2023 to the following address:

County Administrative Office

Attention: Clerk of the Board 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D430 San Luis Obispo, CA 93408

The Assessment Appeals Board meet monthly (except April, May and June) in the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors Chambers at 9 am. Posted meeting agendas can be found online at https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/ Departments/Administrative Office/Clerk of the Board/Clerk of the Board Services/ Assessment Appeals Board Meetings.aspx.

JOHN NILON, Ex‑Officio Clerk of the Assessment Appeals Board

By: /s/ Sandy Currens, Deputy Clerk of the Assessment Appeals Board

July 13, 2023

NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND INITIAL STUDY

DATE: June 27, 2023 (Revised July 6, 2023)

TO: Responsible Agencies, Interested Parties, and Organizations SUBJECT: Office Modular Installation, Relocation, and Replacement Project — Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument and State Park — SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

The California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Lead Agency for the proposed Office Modular Installation, Relocation, and Replacement Project (Proposed Project). DPR has directed the preparation of an Initial Study (IS) in compliance with CEQA.

Project Location: The project is located at four sites within Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument and Hearst San Simeon State Park at 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452 and 500 San Simeon Creek Rd., Cambria, CA 93428, respectively. The Monument and the Park are located along Highway 1, approximately five miles north and one mile north of Cambria, respectively, in the County of San Luis Obispo.

Project Description: The Office Modular Installation, Relocation, and Replacement Project (Project) is a health and safety and historic resource protection project that will replace two existing office modular complexes that have outlived their useful lives and add new modular complexes to the Hearst Castle hilltop and the San Simeon Creek Campground.

The project includes widening a fire access road, adding new fire hydrants and fire sprinkler systems, adding new Accessibility features, upgrading electrical systems, and installing modern, energy efficient, well insulated, modular buildings.

Potentially Significant Environmental Impacts: Based on the IS and supporting environmental analysis provided in this document, after inclusion of appropriate avoidance measures and best management practices (BMP’s), the proposed Office Modular Relocation and Replacement Project would result in less than significant impacts for the following issues: aesthetics, agricultural resources, air quality, biological resources, cultural resources, energy, geology and soils, greenhouse gas emissions, hazards and hazardous materials, hydrology and water quality, land use and planning, mineral resources, noise, population and housing, public services, recreation, transportation, tribal cultural resources, utilities and service systems and wildfire. All impacts are reduced to a less than significant level with the implementation of project specific requirements and BMP’s.

Hazardous Waste Sites: Pursuant to Section 15087(c)(6) of the Guidelines for California Environmental Quality Act, State Parks acknowledges the non existence of hazardous waste sites identified on the Cortese list within the project area reviewed by this Negative Declaration (ND).

IS/ND Document Review and Availability: The public review and comment period for the IS/MND will extend for 30 days starting June 27, 2023 and ending August 14, 2023 (Revised). The IS/MND can also be viewed and/or downloaded on the DPR website: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=982

Comments/Questions: Comments and/or questions regarding the IS/ND may be directed to Doug Barker, California Department of Parks and Recreation, SLO Coast District, 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452 or email: doug.barker@parks.ca.gov

July 13, 2023

ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS

Applications to make minor changes to the properties at the addresses listed below have been received by the City.

1. 1220 Mill St. ARCH-0613-2022; Architectural Review of a two-story addition to an existing single-family dwelling, and construction of a new two-story building (garage and Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)) on property included in the City’s Inventory of Historic Resources (Contributing List Property) and located within the Mill Street Historic District. Included is a request for an exception to ADU design standards, to allow a 27-foot tall ADU where ADU height is normally limited to 25 feet (categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review); R-2-H Zone; Tricia and Michael Mitchell, applicants. (Walter Oetzell)

2. 161 Broad St. ARCH-0081-2023; Review of a proposed new 9,642-square-foot single-family residence and 1,028-square-foot accessory dwelling unit in the Special Considerations (S) Overlay zone. The project also proposes demolition of the existing single-family residence and four accessory structures. This project is categorically exempt from environmental review; C/OS-S-20 Zone; Jon Couch, applicant. (Graham Bultema)

3. 1691 Fredericks St. DIR-0216-2023; Request for an exception to allow a 36-square-foot wall sign on a building face without a public entrance for a residential care facility on a flag lot in the R-1 zone. This project is categorically exempt from environmental review (CEQA); R-1 Zone; Brian Starr, applicant. (Graham Bultema)

4. 221 Daly Ave. DIR-0273-2023; Request to allow accent lighting for a church steeple tower. This project is categorically exempt from environmental review (CEQA); R-1 Zone; Tom O’Brien, applicant. (Graham Bultema)

5. 217 Broad St. ARCH-0061-2023; Architectural Review of a new single-family dwelling on a parcel having a slope greater than 16%. Includes a request for a reduced front setback to accommodate an uncovered parking space (categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review); R-1 Zone; Christina Pyo, applicant. (Walter Oetzell)

The Community Development Director will either approve or deny these applications no sooner than July 24, 2023.

The Director’s decision may be appealed, and must be filed with the appropriate appeal fee within 10 days of the Director’s action. For more information, contact the City of San Luis Obispo Community Development Department, 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, stop by Monday and Wednesday between 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday between 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or call (805) 781-7170, weekdays, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

July 13, 2023

CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE PUBLIC HEARING

The San Luis Obispo Cultural Heritage Committee will hold a Regular Meeting on Monday, July 24, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. Public comment, prior to the start of the meeting, may be submitted in writing via U.S. Mail to the City Clerk’s Office at 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 or by email to advisorybodies@slocity.org.

PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS:

• Review of a request to remove the property at 1202 Mill Street from the Contributing Properties List of Historic Resources in the City’s Inventory of Historic Resources (categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review); Project Address: 1202 Mill Street; Case #: HIST-0289-2023; Zone: R-2-H; Mike Guetschow, owner and applicant.

Contact Information: Walter Oetzell – (805) 7817593 – woetzell@slocity.org

• Review of a two story addition and rehabilitation of an existing single family dwelling,and construction of a new two story building (garage and Accessory Dwelling Unit(ADU)) on property included in the City’s Inventory of Historic Resources (Contributing List Property) and located within the Mill Street Historic District (categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review); Project Address: 1220 Mill Street; Case #: ARCH-0613-2022; Zone: R-2-H; Tricia and Michael Mitchell, owners and applicants.

Contact Information: Walter Oetzell – (805) 7817593 – woetzell@slocity.org

The Cultural Heritage Committee may also discuss other hearing or business items before or after the item(s) listed above. If you challenge the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Cultural Heritage Committee during, or prior to, the public hearing.

Report(s) are typically available six days in advance of the meeting and can be viewed on the City’s website, under the Public Meeting Agendas web page: https:// www.slocity.org/government/mayor and city council/ agendas and minutes. Please call the Community Development Department at (805) 781 7170 for more information, or to request an agenda report.

July 13, 2023

OF PUBLIC HEARING

WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Commission

WHEN Thursday, July 27, 2023 at 09:00 AM. All items are advertised for 09:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of Planning & Building at (805) 781 5600.

WHAT

Hearing to consider a request by AT&T Mobility for a Conditional Use Permit (N DRC2022 00050) to allow for the construction and operation of a wireless communications facility consisting of fifteen (15) panel antennas, thirty six (36) remote radio units, six (6) surge suppression units, and associated equipment and hardware, all within a new 55 foot tall faux water tank to be located within a 900 square foot lease area, surrounded by a 6 foot tall wooden fence enclosure. The enclosed lease area also includes two approximately 24 square foot concrete pads one for a power plant and the other for a 20 kW emergency backup power generator with a 125 gallon diesel tank. The project will result in the total site disturbance of 2575.962 square feet (0.06 acres) of a 4.64 acre parcel. The proposed project is within the Residential Suburban land use category and is located at 594 Orchard Road, in the community of Nipomo. The site is in the South County Planning Area/South County Inland Sub Area.

Also to be considered is the determination that this project is categorically exempt from environmental review under CEQA. County File Number: N-DRC2022-00050

Supervisorial District: District 4

Assessor Parcel Number(s): 092 181 006

Date Accepted: 03/16/2023

WHERE

The hearing will be held in the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1055 Monterey Street, Room #D170, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, CA. The Board of Supervisors Chambers are located on the corner of Santa Rosa and Monterey Streets. At the meeting all interested persons may express their views for or against, or to change the proposal.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A copy of the staff report will be made available on the Planning Department website at www.sloplanning.org. You may also contact Andy Knighton, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805 781 4142.

If you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this public notice or in written correspondence delivered to the appropriate authority at or before the public hearing.

Ysabel Eighmy, Secretary Planning Commission July 13, 202

COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Commission

WHEN Thursday, July 27, 2023 at 09:00 AM. All items are advertised for 09:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of Planning & Building at (805) 781 5600.

WHAT

Hearing to consider a request by Steven Cegelski to amend a building envelope on Parcel 4 of Tract 1931 (AMEND2022 00010). The request includes adding an additional 5,000 square foot building envelope to construct a barn in the northwest corner of an approximately 5.27 acre parcel. The proposed amendment is within the Residential Rural land use category and is located at 210 Cimarron Lane, approximately 1,200 feet north of Thompson Road, directly east of Highway 101 and approximately two miles north of the community of Nipomo. The site is in the South County Inland Sub Area of the South County Planning Area.

The Environmental Coordinator finds that the previously adopted Mitigated Negative Declaration is adequate for the purposes of compliance with CEQA. Per State CEQA Guidelines (Sec. 15164(a), Sec. 15162) an Addendum to the adopted Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared as the following conditions apply:

1) only minor technical changes or additions are necessary;

2) no substantial changes have been made or occurred that would require major revisions to the Mitigated Negative Declaration due to either new significant effects or substantial increases in the severity of previously identified significant effects;

3) substantial changes have not occurred with respect to the circumstances under which the project is undertaken; 4) no new information of substantial importance which was not known or could not have been known at the time of the adopted Mitigated Negative Declaration has been identified. No new mitigation measures have been proposed.

County File Number: AMEND2022-00010

Supervisorial District: District 4

Assessor Parcel Number(s): 090 042 041

Date Accepted: 06/22/2023

WHERE

The hearing will be held in the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1055 Monterey Street, Room #D170, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, CA. The Board of Supervisors Chambers are located on the corner of Santa Rosa and Monterey Streets. At the meeting all interested persons may express their views for or against, or to change the proposal.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A copy of the staff report will be made available on the Planning Department website at www.sloplanning.org. You may also contact Blake Maule, Project Manager in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at +1 805 781 1298.

If you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this public notice or in written correspondence delivered to the appropriate authority at or before the public hearing.

Ysabel Eighmy, Secretary Planning Commission July 13, 2023

HAVE

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENT FREE

Free Will Astrology

by Rob Brezsny

Homework: What’s the best gift you could give yourself right now?

ARIES

(March 21-April 19): Many astrologers enjoy meditating on the heavenly body Chiron. With an orbit between Saturn and Uranus, it is an anomalous object that has qualities of both a comet and a minor planet. Its name is derived from a character in ancient Greek myth: the wisest teacher and healer of all the centaurs. Chiron is now in the sign of Aries and will be there for a while. Let’s invoke its symbolic power to inspire two quests in the coming months: 1. Seek a teacher who excites your love of life. 2. Seek a healer who alleviates any hurts that interfere with your love of life.

TAURUS

(April 20-May 20): It’s high time for some high culture! You are in a phase to get rich benefits from reading Shakespeare, listening to Beethoven, and enjoying paintings by Matisse and Picasso. You’d also benefit lavishly from communing with the work of virtuosos like Mozart, Michelangelo, and novelist Haruki Murakami. However, I think you would garner even greater emotional treasures from reading Virginia Woolf, listening to Janelle Monáe’s music, and enjoying Georgia O’Keeffe’s paintings. For extra credit, get cozy with the books of Simone Weil, listen to Patti Smith’s music, and see Frida Kahlo’s art. If you read between the lines here, you understand I’m telling you that the most excellent thing to do for your mental and spiritual health is to commune with brilliant women artists, writers, and musicians.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): The French phrase j’ajoute (translated as “I adjust”) is a chess term used when a player is about to adjust their pieces but does not yet intend to make a move. J’ajoute might be an apt motto for you to invoke in the coming days. You are not ready to make major shifts in the way you play the games you’re involved in. But it’s an excellent time to meditate on that prospect. You will gain clarity and refine your perspective if you tinker with and rearrange the overall look and feel of things.

CANCER

(June 21-July 22): The Simpsons animated show has been on TV for 34 seasons. Ten-year-old Bart Simpson is one of the stars. He is a mischievous rascal who’s ingenious in defying authority. Sometimes teachers catch him in his rebellious acts and punish him by making him write apologetic affirmations on the classroom blackboard. For example: “I will not strut around like I own the place. I will not obey the voices in my head. I will not express my feelings through chaos. I will not trade pants with others. I will not instigate revolution. I am not deliciously saucy. I cannot absolve sins. Hot dogs are not bookmarks.” In accordance with your unruly astrological omens, Cancerian, I authorize you to do things Bart said he wouldn’t do. You have a license to be deliciously saucy.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22): Early in her career, Leo actor Lisa Kudrow endured disappointments. She auditioned for the TV show Saturday Night Live but wasn’t chosen. She was cast as a main character in the TV show Frasier but was replaced during the filming of the pilot episode. A few months later, though, she landed a key role in the new TV show Friends In retrospect, she was glad she got fired from Frasier so she could be available for Friends Frasier was popular, but Friends was a super hit. Kudrow won numerous awards for her work on the show and rode her fame to a successful film career. Will there be a Frasier moment for you in the coming months, dear Leo? That’s what I suspect. So keep the faith.

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The coming weeks will be a good time to seek helpful clues and guidance from your nightly dreams. Take steps to remember them—maybe keep a pen and notebook next to your bed. Here are a few possible dream scenes and their meanings.

1. A dream of planting a tree means you’re primed to begin a project that will grow for years. 2. A dream of riding in a spaceship suggests you yearn to make your future come more alive in your life. 3. A dream of taking a long trip or standing on a mountaintop

may signify you’re ready to come to new conclusions about your life story. (PS: Even if you don’t have these specific dreams, the interpretations I offered are still apt.)

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In reviewing the life work of neurologist and author Oliver Sacks, critic Patricia Holt said he marveled at how “average people not only adapt to injury and disease but also create something transcendent out of a condition others call disability.” Sacks specialized in collaborating with neurological patients who used their seeming debilitations “to uncover otherwise unknown resources and create lives of originality and innovation.” I bring this up, Libra, because I suspect that in the coming months, you will have extra power to turn your apparent weaknesses or liabilities into assets.

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): It’s a mistake to believe we must ration our love as if we only have so much to offer. The fact is, the more love we give, the more we have available to give. As we tap into our deepest source of generosity, we discover we have greater reserves of it than we imagined. What I’ve just said is always true, but it’s especially apropos for you right now. You are in a phase when you can dramatically expand your understanding of how many blessings you have to dole out.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Home computers didn’t become common until the 1980s. During the previous decade, small start-up companies with adventurous experimenters did the grunt work that made the digital revolution possible. Many early adapters worked out of garages in the Silicon Valley area of Northern California. They preferred to devote their modest resources to the actual work rather than to fancy labs. I suspect the coming months will invite you to do something similar, Sagittarius: to be discerning about how you allocate your resources as you plan and implement your vigorous transformations.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I’m tempted to call this upcoming chapter of your life story “The Partial Conquest of Loneliness.” Other good titles might be “Restoration of Degraded Treasure” or “Turning a Confusing Triumph into a Gratifying One” or “Replacing a Mediocre Kind of Strength with the Right Kind.” Can you guess that I foresee an exciting and productive time for you in the coming weeks?

To best prepare, drop as many expectations and assumptions as you can so you will be fully available for the novel and sometimes surprising opportunities. Life will offer you fresh perspectives.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): By 1582, the inexact old Julian calendar used by the Western world for 13 centuries was out of whack because it had no leap years. The spring equinox was occurring too early, on March 10. Pope Gregory commissioned scientists who devised a more accurate way to account for the passage of time. The problem was that the new calendar needed a modification that required the day after Oct. 4 to be Oct. 15. Eleven days went missing—permanently. People were resentful and resistant, though eventually all of Europe made the conversion. In that spirit, Aquarius, I ask you to consider an adjustment that requires a shift in habits. It may be inconvenient at first, but will ultimately be good for you.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20): Piscean novelist Peter De Vries wrote, “Sometimes I write drunk and revise sober, and sometimes I write sober and revise drunk. But you have to have both elements in creation—the Apollonian and the Dionysian, or spontaneity and restraint, emotion and discipline.” In the coming weeks, you Pisces folks will be skilled at weaving these modes as you practice what you love to do. You’ll be a master of cultivating dynamic balance; a wizard of blending creativity and organization; a productive change-maker who fosters both structure and morale. ∆