New Times, July 27, 2023

Short, but not necessarily sweet, the winning tales for this year’s annual mini-story contest are in [8]

Editor’s note

Writers can do a lot with 55 words. Well, some writers can do a lot with 55 words—others struggle. But kudos to everyone who entered this year’s annual short story contest. We love reading all of your submissions! Unfortunately, only a small number of tales make the cut. And after taking a year’s worth of entries, we narrowed it down to what’s right here in this issue. Death, love, laughter, and a litany of other human conditions—and some not so human—are ready for you to explore [8]

This week, you can also read about the court ruling against the California Coastal Commission in favor of offroading at the Oceano Dunes [4], a surprising home for visual art in Arroyo Grande [24], and Atascadero’s new downtown hot spot [31]

Camillia Lanham editor

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Court rejects Oceano Dunes off-roading ban

Alandmark ruling from the San Luis Obispo Superior Court ensured off-road driving on the Oceano Dunes won’t come to a screeching halt by 2024.

Judge Tana Coates released her ruling on July 19, bringing closure to four lawsuits—three brought by Friends of Oceano Dunes, and one by EcoLogic Partners—that challenged the California Coastal Commission’s March 2021 decision to phase out off-roading permanently in the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (ODSVRA) by next year.

“The court’s ruling is narrow; it is based solely on the commission’s authority to impose a permanent prohibition on [off-highway vehicle] driving at the ODSVRA under current statutes and the county of San Luis Obispo’s current certified local coastal program [LCP],” the ruling stated.

That local coastal program is a documented

planning tool that helps outline development in coastal zones. The Coastal Commission reviews all coastal programs after either city councils or the county board of supervisors adopt them. The court said that under the Coastal Act, only the local government can amend its coastal program.

“With a certified LCP, the local government has original jurisdiction to issue CDPs [coastal development permits] for projects within its jurisdiction, and the commission has only ‘limited’ power to hear appeals from local approvals,” the ruling read.

Certified in 1984 by the Coastal Commission, SLO County’s local coastal program acknowledges that “continued use of the dunes by off-road vehicles has led to environmental degradation of this habitat and has eliminated historical daytime uses,” but off-roading is allowed in specific environmentally sensitive areas of the state park if it’s balanced by environmental protection efforts. To permanently ban off-highway vehicle use requires the SLO County Board of Supervisors to amend the local coastal program that accounts for such a blanket restriction, adopt it, and then have the Coastal Commission review it.

The court determined that the Coastal Commission acted beyond its powers by deciding to permanently stop off-roading in all parts of the Oceano Dunes state park without considering the changes required to the current local coastal program.

“The county, not the commission, is responsible for setting land use rules,” the ruling read. “Whether the county could amend the LCP to prohibit [off-highway vehicle] recreation is not before the court.”

The Coastal Commission is expected to review the ruling over Aug. 9 and 10. Friends of Oceano Dunes celebrated the legal decision with a press release calling it a “huge victory” for off-roading advocates.

Friends President Jim Suty said that the ruling protects jobs and local businesses situated in the state park and referenced a recent study that found visitors from outside SLO County who go to the dunes generated a total economic impact of more than $500 million in 2019.

Water board OKs cleanup settlement of ‘forever’ chemicals near SLO airport

Cleaning up the toxic “forever” chemicals at and around the San Luis Obispo airport will likely take decades, but a recently ratified voluntary agreement aims to ensure that impacted area residents will at least have clean water to drink before the end of August.

“We’re going to be watching them, that’s all I can tell you,” Buckley Road resident Kathy Borland told New Times. “At least we finally have the clock ticking. … We’ve been in a holding pattern for the last two years, and we are on the edge of this.”

Borland attended the July 21 Central Coast Regional Water Quality Board meeting where its members unanimously agreed to a cleanup and abatement settlement with Cal Fire and San Luis Obispo County, including the SLO County Regional Airport. Her property is one of the “purple circles,” aka one of the most impacted properties in the area, which are denoted in purple on an infographic map illustrating the extent of the pollution.

Borland, co-founder of Preserve the SLO Life—which aims to keep residents informed about situations such as this one—said that while residents have reservations about the future, they “feel pretty good” about the next steps.

Since the State Water Resources Control Board directed 29 airports in California to start testing for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in 2019, SLO County has tested the soil, groundwater, and residential wells at and near the airport. State regulators say that the pollution stems from firefighter trainings held annually at the airport since the mid-1970s, where a PFAS-rich substance called aqueous film forming foam was discharged into the environment. When ingested at high levels, PFAS is believed to increase the risk of certain cancers, birth defects, and other health issues.

Greg Bishop, who’s part of the regional water board’s cleanup team, told board members on July 21 that PFAS have a carbon-fluoride bond, which is one of the strongest bonds in chemistry. This means that the collection of substances don’t break down and will exist in the environment forever, he said.

Of the 74 water wells tested so far, 57 are polluted with levels that exceed recommended drinking water standards. One well on Buckley tested for PFAS up to 70 times higher than those recommended levels, Bishop said.

“We have a good sense of where we think most of the PFAS are,” he said. “We’re not done investigating.”

As part of the voluntary agreement, Cal Fire and the county agreed to continue testing residential

Released in June, that study—conducted by Visit SLO CAL and tourism development advisor Resonance—looked at the future of the dunes should off-roading be permanently banned. It suggested creating a stewardship committee, expanding trail systems, improving education about the dunes, and setting up “unique” off-roading experiences like driving electric OHVs.

However, Visit SLO CAL President and CEO Chuck Davison told New Times that the ruling has “no real impact at all” on the study. He added that Visit SLO CAL doesn’t have a stance on off-roading, and instead, focuses on promoting off-highway vehicle experiences while also placing restrictions in off-roading spaces to serve as a middle ground for all parties interested in the dunes.

“That study is really additive to what was happening at the dunes,” he said. “We don’t see the court ruling changing any of these great stewardship ideas.”

The Air Pollution Control District said that the court ruling doesn’t directly affect its dust mitigation efforts. District Executive Director Gary Willey said that the first draft of the 2024 mitigation plan is due from California State Parks on Aug. 1.

“Since litigation was in process, we have never assumed [off-highway vehicle] use would be eliminated when implementing the dust control program,” Willey said. “We have seen significant improvement in air quality as a result of the program and that should continue to improve as the dust control vegetation areas mature.”

The Oceano Beach Community Association urged SLO County leaders to protect the dunes. In a letter to New Times, it called the ruling a lesson on how to successfully proceed forward.

The association urged the new liberal majority of the Board of Supervisors to adopt an amended local coastal plan that restricts off-roading.

“To remain true to its deliberation and goal, the commission must immediately demand that our LCP be amended to banish driving on all areas of Oceano Beach and Dunes, thus aligning it with the Coastal Act,” the letter read. “Our county must finally acknowledge responsibility whereas it has claimed none for the last 40 years.” ∆

—Bulbul Rajagopal

wells for a general investigation into the extent of the pollution with a report due to the water board in 18 months and updates every 60 days. The parties will also conduct a human health assessment, complete an action plan for cleaning up contaminated soil and water, and further develop a public participation plan.

SLO Airport Director Courtney Johnson told the water board that the airport was planning to spearhead something similar to a community advisory committee. She called the agreement a “significant milestone” for everyone involved.

“The collaboration between the water board and the airport parties demonstrates the power of a collective action in securing a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future for the impacted community,” she said. “We’re going to do much more than is mandated. We’re going to go above an beyond.”

The three-year contract aims to eventually give residents with polluted wells “full replacement water,” which will be accomplished by either hooking residents up to an already existing municipal water supply, such as the city of San Luis Obispo’s, or by installing a wellhead treatment system on each of the affected wells. Borland said the treatment systems would likely cost between $10,000 and $30,000 apiece, depending on the size

‘HUGE VICTORY’ Friends of Oceano Dunes and EcoLogic Partners prevailed in their lawsuits against the California Coastal Commission’s decision to phase out off-roading in the Oceano Dunes state park by 2024. The July 19 court ruling hinged on inconsistencies with the county’s current certified local coastal program.

FILE PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM

We’re proud to announce that Get Outside magazine won First Place in the Special Publication category of the 2023 Association of Alternative Newsmedia (AAN) Awards!

Judge’s comment: “The wealth of information, photography and meaty stories presented is truly impressive. Congratulations!”

The Summer/Fall 2023 issue of Get Outside is on stands now. Be a part of the next one! Winter/Spring 2024 will be published in February. Book your ad by January 2024.

Katy Gray (left) and Camillia Lanham (right) accepted the first-place award in the Special Publication category for Get Outside at the 2023 AAN Journalism Awards ceremony, which took place on July 21, 2023, in Dallas, Texas, during the 2023 TexAAN AAN Convention.

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of the well and property’s water use.

Within 30 days of July 21, the parties must ensure that impacted properties have clean drinking water—a point-of-use system— through something like reverse-osmosis filtration installed at the kitchen sink. And by the end of the year, the parties are expected to have installed some sort of filtration system (either a carbon filter or ion exchange system) on the water supply going into the homes— known as a point-of-entry system.

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Although most impacted residents already have point-of-use or point-of-entry systems, the majority of property owners paid for the installation. Regional water board chair Jane Gray asked whether the county and Cal Fire would agree to reimburse that cost. Johnson said the parties could discuss the potential of doing something like that and report back on the conclusion of that conversation, but wouldn’t agree to doing much more than that.

Water board member Stephanie Harlan said she wished the length of the agreement was longer and that the timelines to provide replacement water were shortened. However, she added that she understood the intent was to renegotiate the terms of agreement at the three-year mark.

“I’m somewhat reassured that this is not going to go away at the end of three years or four years, that we will continue the hard work,” Harlan said. “I’m glad we’ve been able to establish some trust. … I wish we could do more.”

—Camillia Lanham

Atascadero residents push back on RV storage lot

On July 18, the Atascadero Planning Commission voted to approve a permit for an RV storage lot adjacent to the Salinas River—pushing the project to its next phase of seeking City Council approval before it can begin construction.

But some residents question whether the commission is fully aware of the environmental and emotional impact building the lot may have.

“The value of this river and watershed is immeasurable, as is the damage to both the river’s wildness and its human neighbors if this plan is approved,” Atascadero resident David Broadwater said via public comment letter. “You must stop this.”

The project, initially proposed in July 2022, intends to make use of a 6-acre plot of land that runs along the Salinas River to serve as outdoor storage for 262 vehicles.

“This beautiful riparian treasure has been assaulted many times by encroaching growth—we must say no more,” Atascadero resident Marty Brown wrote in a public comment letter. “Turning this area of paradise into a parking lot will be a detriment to our water, wildlife, and passive enjoyment of future generations.”

Over the last year, the Planning Commission had city staff conduct archeological and environmental studies to determine whether the lot would have any form of potential impact on the local environment—looking specifically at the impact that waste from RVs could have on water flow and the local beaver population.

It’s those studies, however, that have residents like Broadwater and Brown pushing for an appeal to the plan.

“There is no evidence that the project has been reviewed by the qualified professionals regarding the environmental, recreational, social, and aesthetic values of the site,” Broadwater wrote. “The approval of this project was, therefore, based on insufficient

“The accumulation of storage containers, illegal businesses, transient camps, inoperable vehicles, feral animals, and the storage of miscellaneous junk are possible negative impacts that historically accompany this land use,” city documents from the July 18 meeting read. “Staff has added a series of conditions about site operations to ensure that the storage yard does not deteriorate over time.”

Broadwater told New Times that he intends to push for an appeal of the permit approval and that he may have some help thanks recently announced state recognition of a familiar furry friend.

On June 6, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) announced a formal recognition of the ecological benefits that beavers provide, highlighting their ability to build up wildfire-resistant landscapes and maintain water flow in rivers.

“Beavers help improve habitat restoration and water quality, restore ecosystem processes, and bolster wildfire resiliency,” CDFW Director Charlton Bonham said in a statement. “They are truly the Swiss army knife of native species due to their ability to provide so many nature-based ecosystem services.”

Broadwater is hopeful that beavers’ multifaceted nature will be more than enough to push for a project reevaluation.

“I’ve lived in Atascadero for 51 years. … I know this river, seen the beaver dams, the fish living in their pools, the waterfowl, the lush vegetation, and experience it as one of the most easily accessible places close to town where the wild lives,” he said via public comment letter.

“Please deny this …until an adequate analysis of the potential impact is conducted— it’s the least we owe to this river that gives us the water we use, the plants and animals retaining it, and a place where we can relax and absorb this wonderful wild space near town.”

—Adrian Rosas

Developer defends Dana Reserve ahead of final impact report

Titan Drama Hall of Fame photos presided over the more than 300 people seated in metal folding chairs at Nipomo High School’s cafeteria/ performing arts center on July 24.

Green Nipomo Action Committee shirts competed for attention with heather blue Home For All tees as South County Advisory Council chair Kevin Beauchamp attempted to call attention to the meeting above the din. Almost everyone who attended was there for one reason: the Dana Reserve—a 1,200-plus unit housing development proposed in Nipomo and the largest project planned in a quarter century.

“Let’s keep it civil,” 4th District Supervisor Jimmy Paulding told the crowd. “Be respectful of everybody’s comments.”

The council heard from the developer and area residents that evening but held off on making a decision until its next meeting, after the project’s final draft environmental impact report is released on Aug. 4.

Dana Reserve developer Nick Tompkins touted the project as an answer to the region’s jobs/housing imbalance,

infrastructure deficit, and housing affordability issue. After 79 public outreach meetings to gain county and community input, Tompkins said that what became clear to him was that most of the people who live in Nipomo believe that the basic infrastructure is lacking—water, fire, health care, sewer, sheriff, schools, roads.

He said that neither more housing nor better infrastructure could exist “without solving for both.”

However, project opponents point to some of the impacts of the project as reasons to either downsize it or kill it. These include an influx of thousands of new residents that would strain infrastructure and increase traffic, as well as the environmental cost of the project, which includes cutting down more than 3,000 oak trees on a 288-acre parcel near Willow Road.

“Some people would prefer for us to scrap the project entirely and leave the trees,” Tompkins said, to raucous applause. “However, we are in the middle of a housing and affordability crisis. … Current and future generations have a need for both housing and infrastructure.”

The project includes plans for a village shopping center, a California Fresh Market grocery store, a South County Cuesta College campus, neighborhood parks and walking trails, a 55-and-older age-restricted neighborhood, 104 inclusionary housing units donated to People’s Self-Help Housing, completing the N. Frontage Road up to Willow Road, and a promise to preserve and/ or plant more than five oak trees for every oak tree removed.

Alison Martinez, a Nipomo Action Committee member and area resident, spoke during public comment, saying that three years into the public’s knowing about the project, they’ve spoken with thousands of local residents who are opposed to the Dana Reserve.

“We’ve collected nearly 4,000 signatures against the project, which is 25 percent of Nipomo’s population,” she said, adding that a better project would find “a balance between housing and protecting the oak trees.”

Others who spoke against the project were concerned about the dust that project construction would create, water issues, traffic, a lack of primary and secondary schools to go along with the development, and the reality of whether the homes would actually be as affordable to the “missing middle” as Tompkins touted.

“Houses for rich people are already overbuilt. If you build more houses like that, people are just going to come in from LA and San Francisco,” one resident said.

However, many of the proponents who spoke said that more housing was needed in an area where the majority of people who grew up there couldn’t afford to purchase a home. One teacher said that both he and his wife have taught in Nipomo area schools for more than five years, but they live in Guadalupe due to housing costs.

“It’s important for educators like ourselves to be able to live in the communities in which we teach,” he said. “The Dana Reserve project offers us a unique and wonderful opportunity to be able to find homes within our budget.”

The project will go back before the South County Advisory Council on Aug. 28 and is scheduled to be heard by the SLO County Planning Commission on Aug. 30 and 31. ∆ —Camillia Lanham

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The short—not the long—of it

Each year, we take story submissions from across the country for our 55 Fiction contest. People send us miniature novels, short but not necessarily sweet. e briefest stories in the world weave tales about murder, loss, love, family, pets, pouting, and more. In 55 words or less, we get the characters, the tension, and the gist. is year, some of our authors are rst-timers, some are seasoned 55 Fiction vets, some are locals, and some are from far- ung places. We received hundreds of submissions over the last year, and our judges at New Times narrowed the winners down to the following stories.

A promise is a promise

S he was 50; he was 30.

Madly in love, they wed.

Just one vow: that he’d never leave her for a younger woman.

He was 50 when he came home, holding hands with 30-year-old handsome Harry.

ough heartbroken, she graciously wished them well, joking weakly, “You certainly kept your promise, darling.”

Chris Risk Orcutt

The price of liberty is often repentance

T he police search resembled a band of roving toddlers. Wrong house, wrong guy, but he ended up in prison anyway. Noose-bound, his heart became wol sh. e lawyer worked at freedom while he planned escape.

Just as the sun burst across his face, the judge granted the pardon.

Probably shouldn’t have killed that guard.

A very special wish

“ M ake a wish,” my mother says. I blow the candles hoping my wish comes true, and it does. A little puppy barks around my kitchen.

“Aww, you wished for a puppy,” she speaks again. “Close,” I say. When the puppy picks up a pencil and starts doing my homework, I know my wish was granted.

Khadija El-Refaie Pewaukee, Wisconsin

Heaven

Cindy and her older brother, 7-year-old Tommy, were learning about heaven in Sunday School. e teacher said that, in addition to good people, all loved animals go to heaven. Cindy started crying. “I don’t want to go to heaven,” she said. “Why not?” her teacher asked. Cindy pointed at Tommy. “Tommy loves dinosaurs!”

Renne Gardner San Luis Obispo

Compensating

Ihad a new ’66 Ford convertible, a full tank, 50 bucks, and a blonde beside me who said the miniature purple heart on my lapel was adorable … every time she thought about the right arm I didn’t have to put around her shoulder. But she liked handling my shift lever. You learn to compensate.

Peter Sheats Lompoc

Senior voyeur

Old people lament that they are invisible. Like it’s a bad thing. But not me. I love being invisible, eavesdropping on private conversations, spying on the neighbors, skulking around closed-door meetings. A ghost, a vapor, a very curious spirit. Taking in the youthful lives of others. is and Medicare. e perks of old age.

Jane Brechler Morro Bay

Steven Stone Santa Maria

TSA or AST (American School Trouble)

I urgently snatched my bags to give myself time for when I arrived. e line to get my bag checked snakes around the entrance. Five minutes remaining. e bags are checked and I pass through the metal detector. A man then pats me down. One minute left to make it to class on time.

Francesca Smith Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

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Steve Recchia Reno, Nevada

Ti-girl

It was the principal’s idea. He was the one who sacri ced me to the tiger. Inside the body, it was scorching hot, and I could feel my face in ames. But it was worth it. e crowd roared as I clapped my paws together. It’s game day, and I wouldn’t rather be anywhere else.

Ella Piscatello Northport, New York

The ring

“ I don’t want it!” e diamond in that engagement ring seemed so colorless and cold.

Everyone had gone except the gray-haired, formallydressed man. “You’re young,” he said. I was sixteen. “You don’t know what you want.”

He slipped my mother’s ring o her nger and dropped it into my hand just before closing her casket.

Sara Smith Harvey, Louisiana

Break-in

The door creaked and groaned as it reluctantly swung open, as if it knew the horrors that awaited inside. e walls whispered eerie secrets to each other, their dusty surfaces seemingly alive. e oorboards yelled with each step, as if begging the intruder to leave before it was too late.

Noah Fohey Hartland, Wisconsin

After the honeymoon

In dead silence, he drove to their new home. Just nerves, she thought.

After all, he’s never lived with anyone before. Nothing was said as the last suitcase was brought inside.

“Honey, what’s wr … who’s this?”

Avoiding her gaze, he murmured to the small child, “Meet your new mommy.”

“Not again! Daddy … you promised.”

An American school

S.M. Chon San Luis Obispo

Cats

Isit in school, looking at the daily agenda for Spanish. Lights o . Block the door. No moves. No noises. No phones. I tuck my head and anxiously stare at my Converse.

Footsteps. Another round. More footsteps. e o cer knocks. “You guys passed and can resume class now.”

e drills aren’t always drills anymore.

Katherine ompson Pewaukee, Wisconsin

Magnificent

Competitive juices owing, I get right down to work. First word that springs to mind starts it. Knee jiggling nervously, I watch tiles methodically turning, some in my favor. I recklessly type again. As a sea of green unfolds, I hoot with delight, alerting my poor husband, stuck on ve. “I got Wordle in two!”

S. Bernstein Arroyo Grande

“

Oh my god, you can talk!” I said to my cat. “How long could you do this for? Where do you go at night? Why do you bite me? What does a mouse taste like? Do you love me as much as I love you?”

I eagerly await his response.

“Can you feed me now?”

Christian Berry Hartland, Wisconsin

The voice of wind

Isee the cars below speed ahead. It’s cold out in the dark of night, but no one will see me until it’s too late. As I try to convince myself to go, a brush like wind says, “I got you” in my ear. Looking around, there is no one but me on the ledge.

Emily Biwer Dela eld, Wisconsin

Parole

Eighteen years. It was a long sentence, but she endured it all.

Her good behavior paid o . She’d be released tomorrow.

One stupid teenage mistake … well, it’s over now. Barely 40, she still looked good. She heard loud honking, then yelling.

“Hey mom! Dad’s shouting to hurry your ass, we’re gonna be late to graduation!”

S.M. Chon San Luis Obispo

Untimely

The gondolier in black rows me across the dark river.

A family reunion awaits, a celebration of life lled with love and memories.

Cold waves crash over the bow, lling the boat, trying to drown me.

Everyone’s waiting for me, missing me, but the Styx is unforgiving, and now I’m late to my own funeral.

Autumn White Glendale Heights, Illinois

BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL

Scholastic care

Students from lower-income families are poised to receive much-needed school supplies through a debut partnership between the Central Coast chapters of Planet Fitness and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast.

Theresa Cappelletty, Planet Fitness’ regional manager, told New Times that the two groups came together to promote a judgment-free environment for kids.

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“These students come from different walks of life,” she said. “One person might need everything whereas another student might need pencils and a backpack. There’s no judgment, just donate what you can. By supplying that to students who can’t get that on their own, they aren’t going to be judged or bullied.”

Nationally, families are cutting back on spending in other arenas to make room for school supplies, which have become more costly because of inflation, according to CBS News reporting in 2022. Data from the National Retail Federation show that total spending on back-to-school products rose from $36.9 billion last year to $41.5 billion in 2023. Per American household, that amounts to roughly $864 in 2022 and $890 in 2023.

On the Central Coast, the Planet Fitness and Boys and Girls Club partnership aims to address the growing need for school supplies through local collection drives. From July 24 through Aug. 8, community members in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties can donate essential items like backpacks, lined notebooks, No. 2 pencils, pens, crayons, glue sticks, calculators, erasers, and rulers at the Planet Fitness locations in Atascadero and Santa Maria. Drop off supplies at 8210 El Camino Real in Atascadero or at 1505 Stowell Center Plaza in Santa Maria.

“A lot of the teachers that are [Planet Fitness] members are so happy to hear that we are partnering in that way because they see firsthand how that impacts students in their learning if they don’t have those tools,” Cappelletty said.

Planet Fitness and Boys and Girls Clubs of America have a national partnership through a corporate sponsorship. Kelly White O’Neill, the marketing director of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast, told New Times that the unique aspect was the local Planet Fitness chapter reaching out to create the school supply drive.

“They really are taking their corporate sponsorship very seriously, and being very proactive to reach out to their local Boys and Girls Club to put the corporate sponsorship in place, which almost never happens,” White O’Neill said.

Promote!

The donations will help hundreds of kids across both counties. Once collected, the supplies will be delivered on Aug. 11 to the Atascadero and Paso Robles school districts, along with schools in Santa Maria like Robert Bruce Elementary and Arellanes Elementary and Junior High schools.

More school supply drives are in the pipeline on the Central Coast, according to White O’Neill.

“The United Way in Northern Santa Barbara is doing the Cram the Van drive, and I believe some of our kids will benefit from that as well,” she said.

Fast facts

• SLO Cal Careers is offering 10 full-ride scholarships to an online coding boot camp valued at almost $13,500 for each training spot. The bootcamp is for 26 weeks and is made up of online classes in a part-time format. Meant for beginners, it will cover basic coding skills involving HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Node.js, Express, React, and databases using SQL and Postgres. To apply for the SLO Cal Careers scholarships or learn more about the coding boot camp, visit slocalcareers.org.

Send business and nonprofit information to strokes@newtimesslo.com.

She added that both groups hope the school supply donations can drive home their anti-bullying messaging.

“We serve any child that needs us but historically the kids that we serve come from families with great need,” White O’Neill said. “School supplies are, of course, an issue and not every family has the resources to provide school supplies.”

• Eight restaurants in SLO County received $5,000 each in grants from the Pacific Gas and Electric Corporation Foundation. The funding comes from the foundation’s $900,000 contribution to the California Restaurant Foundation. It aims to boost local restaurants emerging from a poor economy because of the pandemic, and the money will allow for equipment upgrades and workforce training. Some of these local winners include Gino’s Pizza, the Rib Line, Central Coast Distillery, and Les Petites Canailles. ∆

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

SHAHINE MONA

STATIONERY STATION Large boxes in the Atascadero and Santa Maria Planet Fitness locations await donations in the form of backpacks, lined notebooks, No. 2 pencils, pens, and crayons, among other school supplies to help kids in need.

Regular seismic upgrades have kept Diablo Canyon safe in the face of potential earthquakes

This recent letter is a classic example of irrational fearmongering (“Shut it down,” July 20). It is a typical hysterical rant where a person, propelled by some deep delusional fear, demands that the government and society do something entirely stupid just to make them feel better. Ordinarily it is not even worth the effort to address the concerns since such people are emotional by nature and therefore have little interest in facts or reality. Yet, I do think it important to point out to the general public the irrational nature of the fear, because in our society fear can be very infectious. America is no longer the home of the brave.

The primary assertion that there could be an earthquake that could affect the operations

BY DEAN THOMAS

Fearmongering Inflamed rhetoric

at Diablo Canyon is entirely true, but the statement that such an earthquake would necessarily “destroy life within a 600-square mile radius of Diablo Canyon Power Plant” is patently absurd. These issues were raised decades ago when Diablo Canyon opened, and it is still here doing fine. Over its operating life it has undergone regular seismic upgrades making it ever more resistant to seismic events, and in the event of any seismic activity it is designed to shut down automatically. In fact, since its inception nuclear power has proven to be one of the safest forms of power production and the least harmful to the environment. Nuclear waste is compact and manageable, unlike the waste emitted into the atmosphere by fossil fuel

production and the waste stream generated in the manufacture of solar panels and wind turbines. They are still trying to figure out how to recycle all that stuff because it is toxic. There is no alternative energy source that has a “zero harm output,” and there is not likely to be one until they can get the perpetual motion machine working. Nuclear fuel can even be recycled. For years, half the nuclear power produced in the U.S. came from fuel from decommissioned Russian bombs.

I too have written to the Public Utilities Commission on occasion asking them things like how they could claim that Diablo Canyon’s production would be replaced by renewables, when their own figures indicate that all California renewables together can only supply a quarter of the total power demand on an annual basis. The rest has to come from somewhere else, and in California most of that would be from the burning of methane gas, which is harmful to the environment. If the effect of methane lost to the atmosphere during production is factored in, natural gas

PG&E should close Diablo like it promised

is worse than coal in contributing to global warming. Regardless, any clean energy used to replace Diablo Canyon production would not be replacing fossil fuel production, so closing Diablo Canyon will inevitably cause considerable and senseless harm to the climate and the environment.

Finally, there are the social and economic issues that would result from the closure: the loss of hundreds of millions of dollars in local tax revenue; the loss of about 1,500 highpaying jobs, and the inevitable relocation of more than a thousand families who have lived and worked in this community for decades. In conclusion, I do offer one suggestion to the author: If you’re so damned scared, why don’t you just move instead of foisting your irrational fear onto others? We already have enough other stuff to worry about. It’s getting hard to keep up. ∆

Mark Henry wrote to New Times from San Luis Obispo. Send a response for publication to letters@newtimesslo.com.

What were you thinking, New Times, when you printed the “Keep it open” vs. “Shut it down” opinion pieces in the recent issue (July 20)? Were you just trying to get people riled up so you would have material for future issues? Well, it worked.

Both were lessons in inflammatory rhetoric and misinformation on both sides. John Texeira writes in his “Keep it open” piece that “environmentalists could not stand PG&E’s successes so they shut them down through government regulations.” That’s absurd. You mean accumulating more than $30 billion in liability for fires started from their own poorly maintained equipment and power lines had nothing to do with it? When an entity is responsible for scores of deaths and destroying towns like Paradise, I think some accountability is merited. Oh, and by the way, PG&E emerged from bankruptcy three years ago.

John also rails against the subsidies to wind and solar as being a contributing factor to PG&E’s troubles, but he and many other critics of those subsidies neglect the more than $10 billion of subsidies given to fossil fuels every year. A level playing field?

Jean’ne Blackwell doesn’t get a free pass either for her “Shut it down” piece when she uses the term “zero harm” when advocating for federal tax dollars going toward investing “in a safe alternative energy resource that has zero harm output.” Really, what energy source is that? Just because there’s no smokestacks or waste output doesn’t make it zero harm. If it involves anything using batteries, panels, concrete, steel, iron, fiberglass, polymers, copper, zinc, cobalt, nickel, or lithium, I’ve got news for

you: There’s harm involved. Cobalt and lithium mines are not garden spots. As most economists say, “There’s no such thing as a free lunch.”

Jean’ne also uses hyperbolic fearmongering as well, stating that “the inevitable disaster of a nuclear cluster bomb [no such thing] ignited by an earthquake … could destroy life within a 600-square-mile radius of Diablo Canyon.”

Jean’ne, while radioactive fallout from a nuclear explosion, as what happened at Chernobyl in 1986, can indeed spread for miles, your apocalyptic implication of a nuclear wasteland extending from here to Medford, Oregon, and Phoenix, Arizona, does not add any credibility to your arguments. In the Belarusian sector of the Chernobyl exclusion zone, boar, elk, and roe deer populations exploded between 1987 and 1996.

We all need to realize that we’re on the same side. We want affordable, clean, safe power. If we look at mortality rates per terawatt hour, the safest three sources of energy available at this point are solar, nuclear, and wind, in that order, and they account for less than 40 percent of our power needs. Thankfully “green sources” of energy are growing, but so is demand. Until they can satisfy our needs, we will need all hands on deck to get there. That means using nextgeneration nuclear plants, and I’m sorry to break it to many of you, fossil fuels, too. We’re not going to immediately stop using fossil fuels, so until then, we need things like carbon taxes and sequestration. We need to make sure oil companies keep looking for cleaner and more efficient ways to use what we have from the existing fields until “green” sources can meet the demand. As for coal, I wish we could keep that 19th-century fuel in the ground. ∆

Dean Thomas wrote to New Times from Los Osos. Send a response for publication to letters@newtimesslo.com.

No nuclear plant is “clean,” and most certainly not Diablo Canyon. Both the Unit 1 and Unit 2 reactors contain a thousand times the long-lived radioactivity of the atomic bomb that destroyed the city of Hiroshima in 1945, and the high-level radioactive wastes stored there contain about 10 times that amount of deadly radiation. Contrary to the opinion expressed by John Texeira (“Keep it open,” July 20) all nuclear plants are fundamentally dirty. The high-level waste created by fission remains lethal for 250,000 years. Compare that to the origins about 6,000 years ago of the oldest known civilizations. What institutions can we expect to last long enough to safeguard these dangerous toxins long term?

And contrary to the author’s assertion, the cost of electricity that would be generated by the Diablo Canyon plant if it is given renewed licenses to operate another 20 years would be

greater than other options. This is the conclusion drawn in a 45-page study titled “A Cost Effective and Reliable Zero Carbon Replacement Strategy for Diablo Canyon Power Plant,” available online for readers interested in the details. This study was commissioned by Friends of the Earth after PG&E reneged on its commitment made in 2016 to shut down Diablo Canyon at the end of its current licenses in 2024 and 2025.

California can achieve a reliable energy supply without creating either carbon dioxide or radioactive wastes. Stanford University professor and author Mark Jacobson spells out the details in his best-selling book, No Miracles Needed: How Today’s Technology Can Save Our Climate and Clean Our Air. PG&E, close Diablo Canyon as you promised and get out of the way of a truly clean-energy future.

Jane Swanson Mothers for Peace San Luis Obispo

Recent opinion pieces about Diablo Canyon missed the mark on both sides

Where are all the microgrids?

Sammy Roth, the reporter who covers energy issues for the LA Times, recently had occasion to express the received wisdom on how energy must be generated and consumed in California.

Roth recited the accepted wisdom in the July 13 edition of his newsletter (“Boiling Point: Peek inside Diablo Canyon”). Roth, like many of his colleagues, subscribes to TINA (There Is No Alternative) for both nuclear power specifically and the utilities’ centralized energy model. Replacing Diablo Canyon with renewable energy sources, he cautioned, “would require the U.S. to build even more solar farms, wind turbines, and batteries.” But “the more nuclear we’ve got on the grid, the fewer solar and wind farms we’ll need.”

Nowhere in his article does Roth mention a third option. Neither did Gov. Gavin Newsom when he announced that “California will build an unprecedented amount of new utility-scale clean energy resources” by 2045 and spend an unprecedented $7.3 billion on transmission line construction.

A growing number of dissenters have something to say about the received wisdom that the path to our energy future is paved with centralized power and long-distance transmission lines.

As the New York Times recently put it: “Most electric utilities view distributed energy—technologies owned by customers that generate electricity in smaller amounts—as a threat to their business. They have tried for years to stop their customers in many states from investing in rooftop solar by rigging rates to make it less economically attractive. They’ve also funded opposition to policies that would speed clean energy.”

Hence the persistent legislative failure to reform the century-old investor-owned utility (IOU) model.

But Kenneth Sahm White, a consultant in energy policy and development, says that “building shorter transmission lines within California to make use of in-state resources instead of spending much more to build much longer transmission lines reliant upon more distant resources is certainly sensible. Even more sensible is making full use of even more local resources that do not require any transmission lines at all.”

Energy consultant Robert Freehling notes that “today’s solar panels average 20 percent efficiency, which increases the potential to over 80 percent of California’s electricity consumption. Parking lots could add about another 15 percent.”

Chuck Rosselle, an energy industry veteran and former federal energy regulator, says any city in California “with a municipal utility could immediately begin building microgrids and VPPs [Virtual Power Plants].” And take note, Central Coast Community Energy: “Any CCA [community choice aggregation], which already has the bulk of the skills necessary to support municipalization, could cost effectively support the development of and eventually partner with infrastructure-focused local municipal utilities. Together, they could begin to develop stand-alone, isolable community microgrids or VPPs on a regional basis.”

And if they did, they would “beat the cost of IOU power hands down. The small city of Gonzales has created a municipal utility with a well thought through plan to create a resilient community microgrid that pencils out at $0.21 [per kilowatt/hour].”

Gonzales, population 9,000, is located halfway between Soledad and Salinas on the

101. In October 2020, the California Energy Markets website reported that Gonzales had signed a 30-year energy services agreement “to develop a microgrid that will serve the Gonzales Agricultural Industrial Business Park and assist the city in meeting its climate action plan targets.”

Former Gonzales City Manager Ray Mendez said that most CCAs have “not even scratched the surface in the potential for making community investments—whether in microgrid development, job creation, or other economic development projects.”

Mendez advises other communities that grasp the benefits of microgrids to “look to tangible, manageable areas that can be ‘carved out,’ whether it’s a light industrial development, an airport, or some other definable geographic area.” A local CCA could manage an aggregated package of microgrids.

On July 7, San Diego joined the microgrid movement. Other projects are sprouting up across California, courtesy of the Clean Coalition’s Community Microgrid Initiative, dedicated to providing communities with “an unparalleled trifecta of economic, environmental, and resilience benefits.”

Robert Freehling is succinct on the question of whether distributed solar and microgrids will finally get their day in the sun: “Whether or not this happens is just a matter of policy preference, rather than technical limitations on the amount of local solar that could be developed.”

The question for SLO County, Paso Robles, Atascadero, Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, and Pismo Beach: Are you willing to keep pouring money into a 100-year-old, environmentally detrimental, frequently bankrupt, blackoutprone, wildfire-triggering monopoly utility business model, or would you prefer something that actually could address community energy needs? Perhaps you’d like some energy independence and energy resilience, at a lower cost? If so, President Joe Biden is waiting for you to suggest ways to spend the millions of dollars available to you via the Inflation Reduction Act to cut carbon emissions and transition to a renewable energy economy.

Gonzales and San Diego are securing their energy future. Where are you at? ∆

Andrew Christie is the executive director of the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club. Send a response by emailing it to letters@ newtimesslo.com.

This Week’s Online Poll

Should cities with more housing and infrastructure needs be given more county resources and easier access to state grants than those with fewer needs?

53% Yes, cities with more needs should get priority from county resources and state grants.

20% County resources should be used on countywide projects, not city-specific issues.

18% No, cities should not be prioritized over each other. 9% What housing and infrastructure needs?

Smog Check

Get your motor runnin’

Central Valley motorheads, 1. Western snowy ploverhugging environmentalists, 0. In an interesting and unexpected twist, it appears the California Coastal Commission’s power only extends so far. A little more than two years ago, the commission announced it would ban off-roading on the Oceano Dunes by 2024. Now that edict has been squelched.

SLO County Superior Court Judge Tana Coates ruled on July 19 that the commission doesn’t have the authority to enact a forever ban on off-roading in the dunes, so the ban is off. You hear that?!? Load up the ice chest with Natty Lights, fill the ATV with dinosaur juice, put 911 on speed dial, and let’s go break some necks!

According to the judge, our local coastal plan explicitly allows off-roading, which means that plan would need to be updated to ban off-roading, which kicks the decision back to local politics and … wait for it … the SLO County Board of Supervisors, that august, well-functioning bastion of sage decision-making, not

Can you imagine the parade of yahoos who’ll come before the board to lobby “for” or “against”? It’ll be a clown car of crackpots, one after the other, lining up to get their three minutes of impassioned caterwauling on the record.

Who do we have to thank for reversing the commission’s decision? It comes courtesy of The Friends of Oceano Dunes, which sued the commission. “Friends” of the dunes, eh? Kind of a euphemism, ain’t it? Seems to me they’re not “friends” of the “dunes,” which arguably only get damaged from this “friendship.”

They’re actually friends of off-roaders, the fossil fuel industry, ATV manufacturers, and maybe trauma health care providers and undertakers, who every year deal with the aftermath of accidents. Between 2008 and 2019, 24 people died at the dunes. In fact, only the years 2010, 2012, and 2017 recorded zero deaths. Slow. Clap. Clap. Will the county supervisors even take the issue up? Can they simply ignore this hot potato? And if they do, will all the roughly 23,000 off-roaders who use the dunes show up? How about all the folks who argue that off-roading at the dunes creates air pollution and particulate matter that result in coughing, congestion, chest pain, increased heart attack and stroke risk, and stunted lung development in children? IN CHILDREN!

According to a 2016-17 Economic Impact Analysis Report by the Oceano Dunes District of the California State Parks survey, only 15 percent of respondents indicated they were local residents, while 85 percent were either day or overnight visitors. Hey, tourist bucks, amirite? But should all

these out-of-towners decide what happens in our county? What about the South County residents who have to live with the pollution, trash, congestion, and ambulance sirens?

I’m guessing this battle isn’t over yet, but for now, carry on, off-road enthusiasts.

You know who else can carry on? The poor suckers who live by the SLO County Regional Airport who’ve been drinking poisoned well water since, who knows? So far 57 wells have tested for unsafe levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which were developed in the 1940s and are super hard to get rid of. Oh, and they’re probably carcinogenic. Bottoms up! Don’t forget to hydrate!

The county is taking some steps to try to make things right, and the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board asked SLO County Public Health to conduct a health survey in the area. Sounds like an excellent idea, right? Except Public Health Director Dr. Penny Borenstein is, like, nah.

Speak up!

“These kinds of health surveys are exceedingly challenging and especially for an exposure like this, that is still in the ‘may cause’ not ‘will cause’ [stage],” she said. “There’s still no causality for PFAS, and it’s very challenging and disturbing for all of us. ... When we’re talking about a very small population like we are, the chances of finding any sort of cause and effect is like finding a needle in a haystack.”

So, basically, Borenstein is arguing that

it’s too hard to do a health survey, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) hasn’t unequivocally determined that PFAS are dangerous, and even if we discover health problems, they may have come from anywhere, even that PFAS-laden Teflon pan you’ve been using since 1941.

Plus, the county’s already having to add water filtration systems to the affected houses, which is costing a pretty penny. The last thing the county wants to discover is that its poison water has made people sick and now they’re on the line for those associated costs. Nothing to see here. Move along. Meanwhile in the “something to see here” department, it’s happened again. Masked white dudes with banners have infiltrated SLO County. “WHITE MEN UNITE.” Really, dudes? We get that you’re racist, and we already assume you’re a bunch of incel losers, so do you really need to stand in front of SLO Fire Station No. 1 with a banner announcing that you’re insecure male losers looking to recruit other insecure male losers? How about a banner that reads, “I respect everyone, especially women,” or “All people are worthy of love, including me,” or “I’m not wearing this mask to hide my carbuncular features, I swear!” Sigh. What is wrong with these people? This is not the America I love. ∆

The Shredder is making a banner that reads “multicultural pluralism is rad.” Agree to hold one end at shredder@newtimesslo.com.

Hot Dates

MARIACHI AT THE MARIAN

The Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s (PCPA) production of American Mariachi runs through July 29 at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria, before moving to the Solvang Festival Theater for an additional run, Aug. 4 through 27. The show is described as an uplifting, music-filled comedy about daring to dream, according to press materials. For tickets or more info, call (805) 922-8313 or visit pcpa.org.

—Caleb Wiseblood

ARTS

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ASSEMBLAGES OF STEVE DAYTON

Steve divides his time between creating assemblages and abstract painting on wood panels. The assemblages are made by taking small hand built familiar objects and motifs and placing them in box frames to create absurd scenes that include absurd and humorous titles. Aug. 1-29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

BAREFOOT IN THE PARK Presented by By the Sea Productions. Visit site for tickets and more details. Through Aug. 6 my805tix.com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.

BEGINNER MOSAIC CLASS Come learn mosaic basics to create a one-of-a-kind project. You’ll have many colors, baubles, and beads to choose from to create a custom piece. July 29, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Various. 805-286-5993. CreativeMeTime. com. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY

Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. 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.

FIBER ART BY GAY MCNEAL McNeal possesses an appreciation of the multifaceted role that fiber has played in the art and material cultures of many ethnic societies, and her creative high comes from the actual process of trying out the multitude of techniques, both old and new. Aug. 1-30 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

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. 805-772-1068. 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.

FINE ART WATERCOLORS BY VIRGINIA MACK Virginia, along with her late husband John, also an artist, have spent endless hours exploring the back roads of San Luis Obispo County seeking those bits of landscape and the birds that are

visually stimulating or interesting. Virginia works primarily in watercolors. Aug. 1-29 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.

LANDSCAPE INTO ART BY DONALD ARCHER Archer’s exhibit, Landscape into Art, is on display through the end of August. Mondays-Sundays. through Aug. 31 Cambria Library, 1043 Main St., Cambria.

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. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay. org/index.php/workshops/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy

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.

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.

THE REBOOT: STORYTELLING

REIMAGINED July’s theme is “baggage.”

Features true stories about the real and symbolic things we carry, sometimes willingly, often unknowingly, shouldering legacies and letting go. A sometimes funny, always magical, monthly event featuring seasoned tellers, first-timers, and open mic for audience 99-second stories. July 28 7-9:15 p.m. Free. 805-7729225. facebook.com/the.reboot4u. Top Dog Coffee Bar, 857 Main St., Morro Bay. ROCK, PAPER, PRINT AND ABSTRACTION Art Center Morro Bay is proud to present two exhibits: Rock, Paper, Print and Abstraction. Through Aug. 7 Free. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

SEA GLASS WIRE WRAP JEWELRY

Learn basic wire wrapping to create a lovely necklace and two pierced earrings. All materials are provided including local sea glass, jewelry findings, jewelry wire, and use of tools. All skill levels welcome. July 30, 10 a.m.-noon $50. 805-286-5993. CreativeMeTime.com. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY GYM The SLOFunny

Comedy Gym is a monthly showcase for local, SLO County-based comedians. There is always a professional touring host and headliner, in addition to 8 to 10 local comedians. July 30 7-9 p.m. $15. 805-534-3129. facebook.com/slofunny.

Central Coast Pizza, 1050 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY SHOW Hosted by Phill Johnson, with Cory “Showtime”

Robinson, Sarah Halstead, Featuring Richard Chassler and headliner Claude Stuart. July 29 6:30 & 9 p.m. my805tix. com. The Savory Palette (formerly Morro Bay Wine Seller), 601 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, (805) 679-3326 / (805) 858-8440.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY SHOW: JULY Hosted by Gary Cannon. With Sarah Halstead, Phil Johnson. Featuring Richard Chassler and headliner Claude Stuart. July 29, 6:30 & 9 p.m. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Veterans Memorial Building, 209 Surf St., Morro Bay.

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. 805-7722504. 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

ART GALLERY OPENING Showcasing artwork of Susan Lyon, Kathy Madonna, and Maryanne Nucci. First Saturday of every month, 4-7 p.m. Free. Pocket Gallery on Pine, 849 13th Street, Paso Robles, 805-440-7152.

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.

EVENING OF COMEDY FROM HEMINGWAY’S STEAKHOUSE GA tickets are theater seating. VIP tickets get preferred table seating and food and drink service at the table. First Saturday of every month, 8-10 p.m. through Dec. 6 $38-$55. 805-369-1017. Park Ballroom, 1232 Park St., Paso Robles, ehsteaks.com.

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. 805-2389800. studiosonthepark.org/events/ourcentral-coast/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., 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.

COURTESY PHOTO BY LUIS ESCOBAR REFLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

ARTS from page 15

JULY 27 - AUGUST 6, 2023

CENART AFTER DARK: CENTURY 21

AN UPCOMING EVENT?

HAVE

HOMETOWN REALTY An exhibit of pastel paintings by Bobbye West Thompson, member of the Central Coast Pastel Society (3CPS). Meet the artist during a free reception on July 7, from 5 to 8 p.m.

First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. 805-235-4877. slocountyarts.org. Century 21 Hometown Realty, 599 Higuera St, Ste A, San Luis Obispo.

CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing 805-8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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

COMEDY NIGHT Professional comedy show featuring local and touring comics. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. First Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. $5. 805-5408300. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo, bangthedrumbrewery.com.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Looking for a fun 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 familyoriented 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.

FILM PRESENTATION: TÁR Festival Mozaic and the SLO Film Festival present a screening of the Academy Award-winning film following the life of a female orchestra conductor. Starring Cate Blanchett. July 28 2-4 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.

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

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.

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. 805747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INTRO TO DERWENT INKTENSE WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM Learn what these amazing water-soluble pencils can do. In this 3-hour workshop you’ll see demonstrations on a variety of surfaces. July 30 12:30-3:30 p.m. $40 per person. 805-478-2158. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INTRO TO OIL PAINTING WITH SPENCER COLLINS The perfect class for

ORIGIN STORY

The San Luis Obispo Museum of Art (SLOMA) presents Cellular Memory, a solo exhibit of mixed-media artworks by Oaklandbased artist Lisa Solomon, through Aug. 28. The showcase features pieces centered on Solomon’s own research on her partJapanese, part-Jewish ancestry. Visit sloma.org for more info. SLOMA is located at 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. —C.W.

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/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART

Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. 702-335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

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/lisa-solomon/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

ODDFELLOWS COMEDY NIGHT Enjoy an evening of hilarity at the Oddfellows Hall with headliner Curtis Cook ( American Dad Portlandia). Featuring Wendy Wilkins (The Comedy Store), plus other special guests. Refreshments available. General Public: $15. Students with IDs: $10. For ages 16 and over. Aug. 5 7-9 p.m. $15; $10 for students with ID. 805-878-2038. 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. MondaysFridays, 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.

OPEN MIC COMEDY Sign-ups at 6:30 p.m.

Hosted by Aidan Candelario. Mondays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-540-8300. saintsbarrel. com/event-calendar. Saints Barrel Wine Bar, 1021 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

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.

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.

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 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. 805747-4200. instagram.com/slodrawz/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey 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.

ARTS continued page 18

16 • New Times • July 27 - August 3, 2023 • www.newtimesslo.com

Hot Dates

information about this program, email millie@slobg.org. July 30, 1-3 p.m. $55-$65. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., 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

Wallace-Gonzales is a Black-Latinx and Santa Barbara-based artist who uses elements of mythology to explore her identity and personal experiences. Through Oct. 2, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. 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

GOLD FEVER AT THE ROUGH AND READY

Boo the villain and cheer the hero at this show full of colorful characters. Through Sept. 9 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 28 7 p.m. and July 29, 1:30 & 7 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. Through July 30 my805tix.com. Minerva Club, 127 W. Boone, Santa Maria.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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, mindset, and your unique path with results that stick. Hosted byTami Cruz (Certified Health/Life Coach) and Dana Charvet (Coach/Fitness Trainer). ongoing Call for pricing info. 805-235-7978. gratefulbodyhealthcoaching.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

CENTRAL COAST 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.

MONARCH GROVE ELEMENTARY

SUMMER CAMP Features STEAM

LIVE AND LET LEAF

Glasshead Studio in Atascadero hosts its Leaf Stake workshop on Saturday, Aug. 5, from 10 a.m. to noon. Participants will create their own fused glass leaf stakes during the class. Admission is $45. For more info, call (805) 464-2633 or visit glassheadstudio.com. The studio is located at 8793 Plata Lane, suite H, Atascadero. —C.W.

projects, sports, cooking, and a field trip.

July 31 -Aug. 11 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Los Osos YMCA, 348 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos.

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 Be guided into intentional movement, laughter, earthing practices, and gratitude rituals while connecting with nature and the sacred Morro Bay rock. Aug. 2 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. 805-7092227. Hardie Park, Ash Ave. and B St., Cayucos.

TAI CHI AND QI GONG: ZEN IN MOTION

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

TAI CHI CHUN CERTIFICATION With the 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the year. Ongoing courses. ongoing Call for price. 805-7017397. 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.

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. Through July 30 midstatefair.com/. Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles. FREE TO FLY: ZIP AND SIP ADVENTURE

Hosted by Women Making Waves. Visit site for more details and tickets. July 30 9 a.m.-1 p.m. my805tix.com. Margarita Adventures, 22719 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita.

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

SHERECOVERS SHARING CIRCLE

SheRecovers Foundation is a non-profit organization with a community of more than 325,000 women in or seeking recovery from substance use disorders, other mental health issues, and/or life challenges. It’s mission is to inspire hope and reduce stigma. Facilitated by Monica Galli, Certified Recovery Coach. First Thursday of every month, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. sherecovers.org/ sharing-circles/. Dharma Yoga Loft, 1329 Spring Street, Paso Robles, 805-434-1924.

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

TOPS SUPPORT GROUP: WEIGHT

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BARS AND BOUNCE CLINIC A sneaky way to get fit. Build whole-body strength swinging on bars and bouncing on trampolines. No experience is necessary. July 29 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; $10 per additional sibling. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/ events. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. BDSM 101 This monthly class from the Central Coast Kink Community provides a basic overview of kink, consent, rules, and information to help practitioners be successful and safe. Attendees must be 18 years of age or older. Fourth Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. No admission. galacc.org/ events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. 559-905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. BIRDS AND BOTANY MONTHLY WALK

AT SLO BOTANICAL GARDEN The Garden is excited to present a monthly bird walk series on the fourth Thursday of every month which explores the intersection of birds and botany. Fourth Thursday of every month, 8-11 a.m. $10 for Garden Members;

PHOTO COURTESY OF LISA R. FALK

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

THURSDAY, JULY 27

Narducci’s Cafe, Bakersfield

KD Train / Knee Deep

FRIDAY, JULY 28 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Deadstock 2023 (11 bands from all over California)

FRI & SAT, JULY 28 & 29 Dark Nectar Coffee, Atascadero

Orcutt Community Theater: And Then There Were None

FRI, SAT, SUN THRU JULY 30

The Historic Minerva Club, Santa Maria

By the Sea Productions: Barefoot in the Park

FRI, SAT, SUN THRU AUG 6 Shasta Avenue, Morro Bay

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

Women Making Waves: Free to Fly: Zip & Sip Adventure

SUNDAY, JULY 30 Margarita Adventures, Santa Margarita

The Jump Jax and The Talia Ortega Quartet

SUNDAY, JULY 30 Pismo Beach Veterans’ Hall

Mo Betta Summer Jazz Series

SUNDAY, JULY 30

Antigua Brewing Company, San Luis Obispo

SLOFunny Comedy Gym

SUNDAY, JULY 30 Central Coast Pizza, Los Osos

Superheroes in SLO Vacation Bible Camp

MON, JULY 31–FRI, AUG. 4 St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO

Shamanic Morning Rituals for Vitality

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

Fashions for a Purpose Fundraiser

THURSDAY, AUGUST 3 Grover Station Grill, Nipomo

All-You-Can-Eat Southern Seafood Boil

FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 CaliPaso Winery & Villa, Paso Robles

Zongo Yachting Cup - 2023

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5

Morro Bay Yacht Club, Morro Bay

El Tamborazo del 7 of Jalisco

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Grover Beach

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9

Rib Line by the Beach, Grover Beach

SLOFunny Comedy Jamboree Los Osos

THURSDAY, AUGUST 10 Central Coast Pizza, Los Osos

Hot Dates

$40 for general public. 805-541-1400. slobg. org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

FRIDAYS2023

VisitAtascadero.com August

Presented by

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.

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 Aug. 16 Ranges from $55–$105. slocity.org. Islay Hill Park, 1151 Tank Farm Rd., San Luis Obispo.

GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Tuesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free with $5 Garden Entry. 805541-1400. slobg.org/calendar. Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free with $5 Garden Entry. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., 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. 805-5283194. 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 pro-recovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. First Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/.

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.

LUNCHTIME IN THE GARDEN UC Master Gardener Program of SLO County extends an invitation to the public. Bring your lunch, tour the garden, ask questions, or just sit and enjoy the sights and sounds of the venue’s Demonstration Garden. First Wednesday of every month, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Sept. 6 Free. 805-781-5939. ucanr.edu/sites/mgslo/. Garden of the Seven Sisters Demonstration Garden, 2156 Sierra Way, 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.

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED: TRAIN

THIS SUMMER TO MEET CRUCIAL HOSPICE VOLUNTEER NEEDS Put your extra time to beneficial use by completing this three-day, 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 28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Aug. 4 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 FITNESS ONLINE Hosted by the San Luis Coastal Adult School. Gentle but powerful exercises for mind and body with instructor Gary West. Enhance your well being, improve your balance, and practice mindfulness. 19 weeks. Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. through Dec. 13 $95. 805-549-1222. ae.slcusd.org/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

QI GONG FOR MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT

Learn and practice qi gong, a Chinese system for physical, mental and spiritual development. This class is conducted outdoors in a beautiful setting, which is the best place to do qi gong, as its inspiration is drawn from nature. Certified instructor: Devin Wallace. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805-709-2227. Crows End Retreat Center, 6340 Squire Ct., 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 NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB

MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org.

Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY

COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:309:30 a.m. through Nov. 25 $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo, 877-468-3861.

SLO SKIERS MONTHLY MEETING SLO

Skiers is a non-profit sports and social club for adults ages 21 and older. First Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. through Dec. 6 Meetings free; yearly membership $65. 805-528-3194. sloskiers. org. Dairy Creek Golf Course, 2990 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace 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 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. 805-7817288. slocity.org. SLO Swim Center, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo. SUPERHEROES IN SLO VACATION

BIBLE CAMP For ages 5-12. Enjoy a full week of camp with a superhero theme. Cooking classes, theater, art, music, sports, and lots of other fun activities await. July 31 -Aug. 4 my805tix.com. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 1344 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

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 805-6190989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

PLANT 101 WORKSHOP Are you ready to take your green thumb skills to the next level? Look no further than this upcoming Plant 101 Workshop. Join to learn everything about house plants, build your own soil mix, and repot a lovely plant. July 30 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $65. 805-574-3793. pacificplantco.com. Pacific Plant Co., 859 N. Oak Park Blvd., Pismo Beach.

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

WHO: County of San Luis Obispo Department of Planning & Building

WHAT: A Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the Diablo Canyon Power Plant Decommissioning Project is complete and available for public review and comment (State Clearinghouse #2021100559, Development Plan/Coastal Development Permit/ Conditional Use Permit #DRC2021-00092 [ED21-174]). The DEIR addresses the environmental impacts associated with decommissioning of the Diablo Canyon Power Plant (DCPP), including Phase 1 decommissioning activities and Phase 2, which includes soil remediation, final status surveys, and site restoration.

The Proposed Project involves three different sites: (1) the DCPP site, (2) the Pismo Beach Railyard (PBR), and (3) the Betteravia Industrial Park Santa Maria Valley Railyard facility site (SMVR-SB). The Osburn Yard in the City of Santa Maria (SMVR-SM) is no longer under consideration and is not part of the Proposed Project. The DCPP site is on the coast of San Luis Obispo County, California, approximately 7 miles northwest of Avila Beach. The DCPP facility comprises a 750-acre highsecurity zone surrounded by an approximately 12,000acre area of land owned by either PG&E or Eureka Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary of PG&E. The rail sites would be used to transfer decommissioning waste from trucks to rail cars, where the waste would then be transported by rail to out-of-state disposal facilities (Clive, Utah and/or Andrews, Texas). The PBR site is currently used by PG&E for equipment and material storage and transportation needs in support of DCPP operations. The site is located at 800 Price Canyon Road in the City of Pismo Beach in San Luis Obispo County, approximately 13 miles southeast of the DCPP site. This site would be used as a contingency for the transfer of non-radioactive and non-hazardous decommissioning waste. The SMVR-SB site is in the County of Santa Barbara (2820 W. Betteravia Road).

PG&E proposes to retain the existing Eastern and Western Breakwaters and Intake Structure as well as other facilities for potential future use by others. The structures that would remain onsite related to the Independent Spent Fuel Storage Installation and Greater than Class C (GTCC) storage facility (which would be built as part of the Proposed Project) would continue to be managed by PG&E within a designated owner-controlled area until an off-site interim storage facility or permanent repository is available. Identification of an off-site repository for long-term storage of spent nuclear fuel and GTCC waste is a concern both for DCPP and for nuclear power facilities across the nation and awaits resolution by the federal government.

WHERE: The DEIR is available for review or downloading on the County’s Planning Department website at: www.slocounty.ca.gov/DCPPDecom. Hard copies of the DEIR, and all DEIR references, are available for review at the County Department of Planning & Building, 976 Osos Street, Rm 200, San Luis Obispo at the permit center from 8:30 a.m. - noon or 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday. Hard copies of the DEIR are also available for review at the San Luis Obispo County, Santa Maria, and Guadalupe Public Libraries. Electronic copies (USB) are available at all other San Luis Obispo County libraries: Morro Bay, Los Osos, Cayucos, Santa Margarita, Arroyo Grande, Nipomo, Oceano, Shell Beach, Creston, Paso Robles, Atascadero, San Miguel, and Santa Margarita (for hours see SLOLIBRARY.org); and at the Santa Maria and Guadalupe Branch Libraries (for hours see https://www.cityofsantamaria.org/city-government/ departments/library and https://www.countyofsb. org/309/Library-Services).

HOW TO COMMENT OR GET MORE INFORMATION:

Anyone interested in commenting on the DEIR should email your comments or questions to: diablo@co.slo.ca.us or submit a written statement directed to Susan Strachan of the San Luis Obispo County Department of Planning & Building at 976 Osos St., Rm 300, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Comments must be received by 5:00 p.m., September 25, 2023

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:

The DEIR focuses on the following issues: Aesthetics; Air Quality; Biological Resources; Climate Change and SeaLevel Rise; Commercial Fishing; Cultural Resources; Energy; Environmental Justice; Geology, Soils, and Coastal Processes; Greenhouse Gas Emissions; Hazardous and Radiological Materials; Hydrology and Water Quality; Land Use and Planning; Noise; Public Services and Utilities; Recreation and Public Access; State Tide and Submerged Lands Possessing Significant Environmental Values; Transportation; Terrorism; Tribal Cultural Resources; and Wildfire.

In compliance with the State CEQA Guidelines Section 15087(c) (6), the DCPP site is identified in the GeoTracker (https:// geotracker.waterboards.ca.gov/) database (as described under Government Code Section 65962.5 and known as the “Cortese List”); although there are no open cases related to potential water quality impacts since 1990. A review of the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) EnviroStor website (https:// dtsc.ca.gov/your-envirostor/) indicates a violation occurred in 2021 related to filing of manifests and was resolved.

PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION

A study session before the San Luis Obispo Planning Commission is scheduled for September 5, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. in the Board of Supervisors Chambers, County Government Center, 1055 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo.

**If you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised in written correspondence delivered to the addresses above by the September 25, 2023, 5:00 p.m. comment period deadline.**

DATED: July 28, 2023

Susan Strachan, Project Manager

July 27, August 3, & 31, 2023

Hot Dates

more about the wonders of our oceans. Mondays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through July 31 Varies. 805-4575357. centralcoastaquarium.com. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach.

STRIDE WITH THE TIDE PISMO BEACH 5K RUN

City of Pismo Beach and San Luis Distance Club

(SLDC) present Stride with the Tide 5K. Start and finish your race on the sand at the Pismo Pier. Aug. 5 8:30 a.m.-noon $20 race; $35 race and T-shirt.

805-773-7063. pismobeach.org/recreation. Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, Pismo 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.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

GARDEN CARE DAY IN LOMPOC Join the Lompoc Valley Botanic and Horticultural Society and help care for Lompoc’s demonstration garden. Bring your gloves and weeding tools; wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. Snacks will be provided. Aug. 5 9 a.m.-noon

805-450-3668. lvbhs.org. City of Lompoc Drought Tolerant Garden, 1801 W. Central Ave., Lompoc.

FOOD & DRINK

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

MORRO BAY MAIN STREET FARMERS

MARKET Get fresh and veggies, fruit, baked goods, sweets, and handmade artisan crafts. Come have some fun with your local farmers and artisans and enjoy delicious eats while enjoying the fresh breeze of Morro Bay.

Saturdays, 2:30-5:30 p.m. 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

CALIPASO SOUTHERN SEAFOOD BOIL

Southern style seafood boil with fresh, top quality, shrimp, crab, crawfish, potatoes, corn, and sausage. Visit site for tickets and more info on the event. Aug. 4 6 p.m. my805tix.com.

CaliPaso Winery, 4230 Buena Vista Dr., Paso Robles, 805-226-9296.

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. 805-434-5607. onxwine.com/estate. ONX Estate

Vineyard, 1200 Paseo Excelsus, Templeton.

TACO TUESDAYS La Parilla Taqueria will be in the courtyard serving up their delicious tacos and tostadas. Menu typically includes barbacoa, chicken, and pastor tacos, as well as shrimp ceviche tostadas. Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. 805-4606042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

YOGA AND WINE BLENDING CLASS Includes a wine blending class after the yoga practice. July 29, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. my805tix.com. Timshel Vineyards, 825 Riverside Ave., suite 1, Paso Robles.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET

Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, 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, 805-242-1167.

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

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. 805-439-2529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

for a Purpose. Aug. 3 8 a.m.-3 p.m. my805tix. com. Grover Station Grill, 170 W. Grand Ave., suite 101, Grover Beach.

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

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

FREE BARBECUE: CEREMONY TO HONOR PURPLE HEART AND GOLD STAR COMMUNITY Sponsored by the Cloverlane Foundation and Santa Ynez Community Outreach. Aug. 5, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Avenue of Flags, Avenue of Flags, Buellton.

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 and an indie attitude. Aug. 5 3-6 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com/. Schooners Cayucos, 171 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos, (805) 995-3883.

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

MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: FEI XIE Fei Xie, principal bassoonist of the Minnesota Orchestra, performs a mini-recital of music for bassoon and piano, joined by pianist Chiao Wen Cheng. July 28 12-1 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Community Presbyterian Church of Cambria, 2250 Yorkshire Dr., Cambria.

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. Aug. 5, 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. 805995-3883. schoonerscayucos.com. 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

BACK PAGES BAND: STAR SPANGLED

BANNER Three members of the local Back Pages Band will sing the Star Spangled Banner, in three part harmony to open the STYX concert at the Mid State Fair. July 28 7:45-8 p.m. Varies. 805-239-0655. midstatefair.com. California MidState Fair, 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles. BAROQUE IN THE VINES Scott Yoo leads this annual Baroque concert at the beautiful hilltop setting of Serra Chapel. Enjoy concertos for flute, bassoon, and cello. July 29 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets start at $67. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Serra Chapel, McMillan Canyon Rd., Shandon. DEADSTOCK 2023 With 12 lethal bands from across the state. July 27-29 my805tix.com. Dark Nectar Coffee Lounge, 5915 Entrada, Atascadero, 805-835-1988.

GUARDIANS OF THE GARDEN

The Lompoc Valley Botanical and Horticultural Society hosts Garden Care Day at the Lompoc Drought Tolerant Demonstration Garden on Saturday, Aug. 5, from 9 a.m. to noon. Community members are welcome to volunteer during the event and are encouraged to bring their own gloves and weeding tools. Snacks will be provided. Visit lvbhs.org for more info. The garden is located at 1801 W. Central Ave., Lompoc. —C.W.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitarwoven music that has an authentic feel and an indie attitude. July 27 6-8 p.m. Free. 760-5148822. 15 Degrees C Wine Shop and Bar, 624 S Main St., unit 101, Templeton, 15degreescwines.com.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that has an authentic feel and an indie attitude. Aug. 6, 1-4 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com/. Shale Oak Winery, 3235 Oakdale Rd., Paso Robles, 8052394800.

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. 805460-6042. 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.

MILLION DOLLAR COWBOYS: A SOUTHERN ROCK SURF COUNTRY ROCK BAND Created in Los Osos. The band has incredible danceable percussion from drummer Brandon Beato, iconic riffs from guitarists Robb Lee and Brad Stock, and entertaining front man Chris Rodriguez. Aug. 3, 8-11 p.m. $10 at the door. 310439-0969. Sweet Springs Saloon, 990 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

CHAMBER CONCERT 4: A SOLDIER’S TALE

The 2023 Chamber Concert series ends with a performance of Stravinsky’s cautionary story about a soldier who trades his fiddle to the devil. July 28 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 805781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that has an authentic feel and an indie attitude. July 29 6-9 p.m. Free.

The Mark Bar and Grill, 673 Higuera St., Sal Luis Obispo, 805-439-4400. Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that has an authentic feel and an indie attitude. Aug. 3, 1-4 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com/. San Luis Obispo Golf and Country Club, 255 Country Club, San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-3400.

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

LADY WRAY WITH BRAINSTORY Like most artists, Nicole Wray’s life in music has always reflected her real life. Aug. 2 7-10 p.m. $25. slobrew.com. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843.

LIVE MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO. Enjoy live music by local favorites. Wine available by the flight, glass, or bottle. Thursdays-Saturdays, 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.

MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: KO-ICHIRO

YAMAMOTO Ko-ichiro Yamamoto, principal trombonist of the Seattle Symphony, joins pianist Chiao Wen Cheng for a recital of music for trombone and piano. July 27 12-1 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.

NOTABLE INSIGHT: STRAVINSKY’S A

SOLDIER’S TALE Scott Yoo guides you on a tour into the music of Stravinsky’s “A Soldier’s Tale.” He will discuss the history surrounding the piece, Stravinsky’s influences and musical style, and the ensemble will perform some selections. July 27 2-4 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

POPS ON! ORCHESTRA NOVO GOES

HOLLYWOOD: THE SEQUEL Picnics and nonalcoholic beverages welcome. Wine, beer, and spirits available for purchase from Madonna Inn. Aug. 6 4-6 p.m. $40 individual; $400 table of 10. 805-458-2080. orchestranovo.com/concerts/. Madonna Inn Expo Center, 100 Madonna Rd., 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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY FM PRESENTS: LUCIA MICARELLI AND LEO AMUEDO Join violinist and singer Lucia Micarelli and guitarist Leo Amuedo for an intimate concert showcasing diverse influences moving from jazz, to classical, to traditional fiddle music, Americana, and Latin, that creates a musical map binding together Lucia’s trademark emotional vulnerability and Leo’s technical wizardry. July 27 5:30-8 p.m. Tickets start at $59. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org.

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

FRIDAY NIGHT HAPPY HOURS: LIVE MUSIC

Enjoy Friday Night Happy Hour at Avila Bay Athletic Club. Aug. 4, 6-8 p.m. Free. avilabayclub. com. Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, 805-595-7600.

THE JUMP JAX AND THE TALIA ORTEGA

QUARTET: LIVE IN CONCERT Presented by the Basin Street Regulars Hot Jazz Club. July 30 1-4 p.m. my805tix.com. Pismo Beach Veterans Memorial Hall, 780 Bello St., Pismo Beach.

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. ∆

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOMPOC VALLEY BOTANICAL AND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

Arts

ARTIFACTS

A cast of Gold Rush miners inhabit the Great American Melodrama’s latest production

The Great American Melodrama in Oceano presents Gold Fever at the Rough and Ready which opened in late July and is scheduled to run through Sept. 9. Performances of the the local theater group’s latest show take place Wednesday through Friday at 7 p.m., every Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m., and every Sunday at 6 p.m.

According to press materials, Gold Fever at the Rough and Ready is full of “heroic action, love, betrayal, deceit, and villainy,” and offers “loads of opportunities to boo the villain, cheer the hero, and laugh yourself silly.” The show is set in a mining camp during the California Gold Rush and follows an ensemble of lively characters.

Thirty minutes prior to each performance of Gold Fever at the Rough and Ready, the Great American Melodrama’s popular snack bar opens for attendees to enjoy, and reopens during each of the show’s intermission breaks.

Other upcoming productions in the Great American Melodrama’s 2023 season include Mummy Dearest (scheduled to open on Thursday, Sept. 14, and run through Friday, Nov. 10), and The Holiday Extravaganza (scheduled to open on Thursday, Nov. 16, and run through Sunday, Dec. 31).

Call (805) 489-2499 or visit americanmelodrama.com for tickets to Gold Fever at the Rough and Ready or more info on the Great American Melodrama and its rotating lineup of shows. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the theater’s box office, which is open Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m., and every Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

Admission to Gold Fever at the Rough and Ready ranges between $30 and $36, with discounts available for children (ages 12 and under), students (ages 13 to 18), seniors (ages 62 and older), and active and retired military.

Cambria Library presents new solo exhibit, Landscape into Art

A collection of artworks by Donald Archer will be on display during Landscape into Art, an upcoming solo exhibition scheduled to premiere on Aug. 1 at the Cambria Library. The show will remain on display through the end of the month.

Guests of the library can view the showcase during the venue’s regular hours: Tuesday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and every Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ∆

—Caleb Wiseblood

BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

Beautiful box office

Clark Center for the Performing Arts highlights Central Coast artists in its lobby

Whether taking in the latest musical theater production or one of the Clark Center for the Performing Art’s renowned concerts and music festivals, the path to its stage meanders through the box o ce.

And in this box o ce lobby, the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande is showcasing a di erent kind of art.

“People come in all the time to get tickets for various shows and are surprised to see the art we have hanging up in the box o ce lobby walls,” Lillyana Huerta said with a laugh. “ ey are even more surprised when that art changes every two months—it’s given the lobby this really neat dynamic.”

Support local art

Visit the Clark Center for the Performing Arts on Sept. 10 from 2 to 4 p.m. for an opening reception for the next set of local artists hosted in the venue’s box office lobby. For more information, visit clarkcenter.org.

What began as a convenient way to decorate the lobby has transformed into a celebration of local artists hailing from across San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.

“We have two big walls in the lobby that are completely blank and a hanging system for them to use,” Huerta said. “ ey get to be creative in how they display their work.”

Huerta, the Clark Center’s patron services coordinator, said the lobby art showcase has been a fun way to keep the walls looking fresh and interesting while also allowing local artists to show their art in a place guaranteed to garner attention.

“ e art is open to viewing during box o ce hours,” Huerta said. “Some artists do hands-on exhibits, which sometimes includes artists redoing or making pieces in front of guests—anything that is just getting out there and having fun.”

Lobby art ranges in style and in uence, but every piece submitted and juried by the Clark Center showcases just how much local art is out there.

“Over the years we’ve had your standard paintings— including oil, watercolor, abstract, and acrylic. On top of that, we also feature pencil drawings, woodworking, ceramics, and even mixed media,” she said. “It’s a large

variety of art—some pieces are big, some are small, and all of it is local to the Central Coast.”

Currently, the acrylic and mixed media of Jewel DeMoss and oil paintings of Kevin MacFarlane are on display.

DeMoss’ work focuses on women and their lives through a style she said makes use of paper, fabric, and anything else she nds interesting in the world around her.

“ ere are not su cient words to describe my excitement in nding mixed media … it provides so much opportunity to play,” DeMoss said. “I try to re ect a piece of life or a signi cant issue. ... I love creating gurative art and enjoy pushing myself to be even more abstract.”

the emotions they inspire.

Huerta said that the lobby has not only become a way for the venue to highlight local artists like MacFarlane and DeMoss but to also allow them to showcase and sell their work—with one notable caveat.

“[Clark Center] allows the artists to have their works be purchasable, and while we don’t take a cut of the sales, we do require that 20 percent of the pro t go towards student scholarship programs,” Huerta said. “We have various ones we choose that usually aim to help graduating high school seniors get into theater in some form.”

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

On the opposite end of the visual art spectrum are the works of MacFarlane—whose landscape oil paintings of Pismo Beach encapsulate the beauty that captivated him and his wife when they moved to the Central Coast last year.

According to the self-taught oil painter, his Clark Center lobby contributions include landscape pieces that aim to capture the beauty of nature and

She said that the artist application for 2024 is now open, and the artists selected will be able to host an individual—or collaborative—opening event free of charge.

“ e whole point is to allow these artists to make these events tailored to what they want to t their style and art—within reason of course,” Huerta said with a laugh. ∆

Sta Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas is thinking about buying some local art to hang up in his living room. Reach him at arosas@newtimesslo.com.

LOVELY LOBBY

The box office lobby at the Clark Center for the Performing Arts features two different artists from across the Central Coast every two months.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CLARK CENTER

FLOWER POWER The art featured in the Clark Center includes painted pieces like this one from Maz Ghani that highlights Central Coast wildflowers.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CLARK CENTER, ART BY MAZ GHANI

STUPENDOUS SCULPTURE The Clark Center lobby box office also features vase sculpture pieces like this one by Barry Lundgren.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CLARK CENTER, ART BY BARRY LUNDGREN

Central Coast Creative Corps

Open

Updates in local arts

The Bunker SLO | Stop by to view the Opening Minds Community Arts Show that was developed by Transitions Mental Health Association in celebration of living mentally well, championing the idea that we should not be defined in terms of our mental illness but by our strengths, gifts, and contributions. SLO County Arts and The Bunker SLO are proud sponsors of this event.

Kreuzberg Coffee Featuring Cal Poly Student Work Submitted through the American Institute of Architecture Students to represent the delightful minds and talent of the local student population. SLO Museum of Art | Join SLOMA for

Featuring Guest Artists

The Damon Castillo Band

Applications are open for the 25th annual Open Studios Art Tour! The San Luis Obispo County Open Studios Art Tour, a program of SLO County Arts October each year. Free to the public, fine artists art and share their processes. Visitors create their

Celebrating the

Coast Saturday, September 2, 2023 · Avila Beach Golf Resort

Tickets @ My805Tix.com PACIFIC

Sponsored By: New Times, Santa Maria Sun, KSBY, KCBX, Estero Bay News, & Pat & Ben McAdams

Original Music Arrangements by Cynthia Reifler Flores

Out of the box

BARBIE

What’s it rated? PG-13

Co-written by Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach ( e Squid and the Whale, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Frances Ha, Marriage Story) and directed by Gerwig (Lady Bird, Little Women), this comedy fantasy nds Barbie (Margot Robbie) magically transferred from Barbie Land into the real world with Ken (Ryan Gosling), leading Barbie to question her world and her very existence. (114 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 Has there ever been a piece of plastic as divisive and controversial as the Barbie doll? Is Barbie a horrible role model of unrealistic body expectations? Is she a feminist icon that can be anything she can dream of?

According to Greta Gerwig’s pinktacular new lm, she’s both. e next question is whether this new lm is one giant productplacement advertisement or is it art? I’m going to also say … it’s both! In Barbie Land, “Stereotypical” Barbie (Robbie) is living her best life. Hers is a world with a female U.S. President and all-female Supreme Court, a world free of racism and sexism … as long as you’re a woman. Kens, on the other hand, are afterthoughts, especially “Beach” Ken (Gosling), a mostly vacant, vaguely jealous dude who just wants Barbie to love him. ings go haywire for Barbie when she begins to have thoughts of death, so she goes to “Weird” Barbie (Kate McKinnon) for advice. Told to go to the real world and nd whoever is playing with her to cheer her up, o she goes, with an unwelcome “Beach” Ken stowed away in her pink convertible T-Bird. While she looks for the petulant adolescent—Sasha (Ariana Greenblatt)—Ken discovers patriarchy, and ain’t it grand!

Anna e hype is real. ere are Barbie parties all over social media, a huge line of mostly women decked out in pink in front of the theater, and some serious nostalgia for those of us who had a drawer full of Barbie dolls and who drooled over that

JURY DUTY

What’s it rated? TV-14

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Amazon

Prime’s Freevee

Whatever lengths the casting department had to go through to get Ronald Gladden to sign up for this experiment were well worth it. He thinks he’s on a real jury, one that’s being filmed for a documentary showing the process of a civil trial. Little does he know the bizarre behavior and absolutely odd characters surrounding him are all an act. But while the trial may be a farce, the friendships that come out of the experience are real, and Gladden

YOU CAN BE ANYTHING? Margot

Dreamhouse. I’m sure execs aren’t sad that this lm is making the brand a mint and that they’re bound to rake in some serious sales in the weeks and months to come, but there’s de nitely an even bigger picture here. e Barbie Land bubble is pretty and pink and perfectly perfect—or so it seems. e Barbies all think that their existence led to the “real world” being a place where women are in charge, girls are empowered, and things run smoothly—just like their paradise. But when Barbie lands in her rollerblades and skintight neon leotard, she starts to feel things— things she doesn’t like. Self-conscious, unsafe, weirded out by the men on Venice Beach who catcall and ogle her. is isn’t the world she was told about! In the meantime, Ken feels the power of the patriarchy and can’t get enough. Finally, a world where men are in charge! is movie is ferociously funny, but it doesn’t stop there—it has plenty of deep-rooted commentary on the world, feminism, and how we treat each other. Glen Barbie has a lot going on, no doubt about it. Sasha feels disconnected from her mom, Gloria (America Ferrera), so part of

proves himself to be a genuinely wonderful person.

From James Marsden who plays himself and manages to get the jury sequestered to odd Todd (David Brown) whose obsession with cyborgs leads him to invent and sport chair-pants to court, this grab bag of kooky characters makes for a funny and touching group that Ronald, the jury foreman, must wrangle. The judge, the bailiff, the witnesses—they’re all actors playing a role.

If you need a well-deserved break from serious shows, Jury Duty is a lighthearted and oddly endearing series that shouldn’t be missed. (eight 26- to 29-min. episodes)

—Anna

the story is about them reconnecting. Gloria delivers an incisive monologue delineating the dichotomous tightrope-like line women are expected to navigate. Rhea Perlman makes an appearance as the ghost of Ruth Handler, co-founder of Mattel and creator of Barbie, a groundbreaking doll because it wasn’t a baby to be nurtured by a girl playing mommy but a woman girls could project themselves into. I’ll sheepishly admit, I have a newfound respect for Barbie dolls. Anna Yeah, Barbie rules! Has the company made some odd choices throughout the years? Sure! No one needed a Skipper who goes from an A to a C cup or Barbie with a weird TV in her back, but the important thing to remember is that we learn through growth, even when it hurts. I love Gerwig, and this lm only deepens that. Join the craze and get to the theater for this one. It’s well worth it. ∆

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

OPPENHEIMER

What’s it rated? R

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Bay, Colony, Downtown Centre, Fair Oaks, The Palm, Park, Stadium 10

Based on Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin’s 2006 biography, American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer screenwriter-director Christopher Nolan ( Batman Begins, Inception, Dunkirk ) helms this film adaptation about the American scientist (Cillian Murphy), chronicling his role in developing the atomic bomb. The story shifts back and forth through time between Oppenheimer’s university years, his interest in communism, his work on the Manhattan Project, and most importantly, his shift in fates between American hero to villain. This is a stunning, thrilling piece of cinema—a truly spectacular achievement from a director whose films never fail to dazzle. In it, we explore the brilliant enigma that is Oppenheimer—in turns tortured and egotistical. For better or worse, he’s credited with unleashing the most destructive weapon the world has ever known—a dubious honor, and certainly one that seemed to torment him. Aside from the United States nearly 78 years ago, atomic bombs have never been used, but the threat has hung ominously over humankind ever since.

There’s an uncomfortable scene when, after the successful Trinity nuclear test, Oppenheimer gives a speech before the cheering team that works on the Manhattan Project. The U.S. won the race for an atom bomb, and the world lost. (180 min.) ∆

Starring: Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr.

Robbie stars as Barbie, a doll who’s transported from Barbie Land to the real world, forcing her to question everything she knows, in Barbie, screening in local theaters.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WARNER BROS. PICTURES

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMAZON PRIME

THE RONALD SHOW Like the fictional Jim Carrey film The Truman Show, Jury Duty places unwitting regular-guy Ronald Gladden onto a jury and trial populated entirely by actors, streaming on Freevee.

DESTROYER OF WORLDS

Cillian Murphy stars as American scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer, who helped create the atomic bomb, in Oppenheimer, screening in local theaters.

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL PICTURES

The protégé who became the master

How Steve Earle became an American icon

Steve Earle’s life sounds like something out of a Cormac McCarthy novel. His father, an air traffic controller and amateur pianist, wouldn’t let his son have an electric guitar even though the young Beatles fan desperately wanted one.

He finally got an acoustic at 11, entered a school talent show at 13, and ran away from home at 14 to search for his idol, the legendary Texas songwriter Townes Van Zandt. He eventually met his hero as a 14-year-old high school dropout living in Houston with his 19-year-old uncle.

Five years later, he’d moved to Nashville and was working blue-collar jobs during the day and playing music at night. There he met Guy Clark and started playing bass in his band, and he sang on Clark’s 1975 album Old No. 1. He also appeared in the 1976 documentary Heartworn Highways about the Nashville music scene, which also features David Allan Coe, Clark, van Zandt, and Rodney Crowell. Pretty good company. Eventually he became a staff songwriter at Sunbury-Dunbar.

The list of performers who’ve played Earle’s songs is long, from Carl Perkins and Johnny Lee to Travis Tritt and Robert Earl Keen, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Joan Baez, Emmylou Harris, The Pretenders … countless others. The protégé of legends like Van Zandt, Clark, and later Jerry Jeff Walker was now a legend in his own right.

He eventually released his debut album in 1986 at age 31, Guitar Town, and it shot to No. 1 the U.S. country chart. The album is now considered a bona fide Americana classic.

Earle was arrested twice in the 1990s for drug possession and sentenced to a year in jail. He served 60 days before entering rehab.

“If I didn’t change, I’d be dead,” Earle said in press materials.

Earle has been sober ever since and wildly prolific.

“I’m just trying to stay out of trouble. If I stay busy, then I’m OK.”

Earle’s 1988 hit “Copperhead Road” was

made an official state song of Tennessee in April this year. His most recent album—his 22nd—was recorded with The Dukes. Called Jerry Jeff, it consists of Earle’s versions of songs written by Walker, his third great mentor. He also released albums of van Zandt and Clark songs.

Earle’s also published both a novel, I’ll Never Get Out of This World Alive (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt 2011), and a collection of short stories, Dog House Roses (Houghton Mifflin 2003).

He eventually got that electric guitar he pined for as a kid, but these days he’s been back on the acoustic and playing solo, as he will this Friday, July 28, in the Fremont Theater as part of his Alone Again Tour (8 p.m.; all ages; $35 to $75 at eventbrite.com).

“It’s always been on my own terms,” he

said. “My career maybe isn’t as big as it could be. But it would be unseemly for me to complain too much. I still feel lucky to be able to make a living doing something that I love. And I still make an embarrassing amount of money for a borderline Marxist.”

Also this week at the Fremont, see comedian and musician Tim Heidecker on Saturday, July 29 (8 p.m.; all ages; $29.50 at eventbrite.com), as part of his The Two Tims summer tour. He’s funny as heck and also a very talented songwriter and musician, so he’ll do a set of stand-up followed by a set of music. He’s released four albums, including one skewering the Trump era, and his most recent, High School, a tender examination of adolescence that garnered high praise from Pitchfork, NPR, and Paste. His TV special, An Evening with Tim Heidecker, has been watched

more than 1 million times on YouTube.

Finally, Rush tribute band YYNOT brings vintage Rush and prog rock originals on Sunday, July 30 (8 p.m.; all ages; $22.50 at seetickets.us).

Vina Robles Amphitheatre

Three-time Grammy-nominated and 25time Billboard chart-topper Joe Bonamassa brings his incendiary blues rock to Vina Robles this Wednesday, Aug. 2 (8 p.m.; $94 to $204 at vinaroblesamphitheatre.com).

His current tour comes hot on the heels of Tales of Time, “a sprawling and expansive live concert film and album featuring material from his latest No. 1 studio album, Time Clocks,” according to press materials. “Filmed at the breathtaking Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado in August 2022, with a stunning visual backdrop that served to highlight the beauty of the music, Tales of Time captures a stratospheric performance by the blues-rock titan, as his virtuoso guitar style and unique technique and flair elevate the evening to an almost heavenly high.”

Expect a similar concert experience this Wednesday from a man Guitar World magazine called “arguably the world’s biggest blues guitarist.”

Also don’t forget the hard rock extravaganza this week with co-headliners Motionless In White and In This Moment on Thursday, July 27 (6:30 p.m.; $39.50 to $69.50 at vinaroblesamphitheatre.com), and opening acts Fit For A King and From Ashes to New. Part of The Dark Horizon Tour, the concert will feature this quartet of hard rock giants all in one location and all on one night.

And closing out July, see Latin Grammy award-winners Banda Cuisillos on Sunday, July 30 (8 p.m.; $59 to $99 at vinaroblesamphitheatre.com). This large ensemble is known for its romantic Mexican style of music as well as for the Native American costumes. They’ve had hits with “Cánchame,” “Hasta el Cielo,” “Nunca me Olvidé,” and collaborations with Grupo Codiciado with the cover “Don’t Tell Her” and with Perdidos de Sinaloa with “Me You Have In Love.”

HEAD TO GUITAR TOWN Singer-songwriter Steve Earle on his Alone Again Tour plays solo and acoustic in the Fremont Theater on July 28

COURTESY PHOTO BY DANNY CLINCH

GUITAR SLINGER Ripping blues rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa plays Vina Robles Amphitheatre on Aug. 2 .

PHOTO COURTESY OF NEDERLANDER CONCERTS

TWO TIMS Double-threat comedian and musician Tim Heidecker plays the Fremont on July 29 , as part of his The Two Tims summer tour.

COURTESY PHOTO BY ANDREW LEVY

STARKEY continued page 30

The Siren

Morro Bay’s little nightclub that could keeps chugging along with some great shows. This week they start with Finland’s finest surf rock act The Charades as they bring their vintage ’60s and ’70s sounds to The Siren on Friday, July 28 (7 p.m.; 21-and-older; $15 at tixr.com). This marks the band’s Central Coast debut. I checked out some tracks online, and they’re reverbtastic.

I don’t know how they manage to fit on The Siren’s little stage, but the 20-piece Western Standard Time Ska Orchestra will play this Saturday, July 29 (8 p.m.; 21-and-older; $20 at tixr.com). Just their horn section alone is bigger than most other ska bands. The band features Greg Lee from Hepcat on vocals as well as guys from The Aggrolites, Beastie Boys, Gogol Bordello, See Spot, Mobtown, Kingston 10, The Debonaires, and many more.

Greasy Dashiki plays The Siren’s free summer Sunday series this Sunday, July 30 (2 to 4:30 p.m.; 21-and-older). This energetic band plays an eclectic mix of music from originals to classic covers, and oddball obscurities in an unorthodox way. Get weird and like it.

SLO Brew Rock

If you like your rock mellow, check out yacht rock tribute band Yachty by Nature this Saturday, July 29, at SLO Brew Rock (doors at 7 p.m.; 18-and-older; $20 at ticketweb.com). They’ve been playing classic covers by the likes of Michael McDonald, Hall and Oates, Boz Scaggs, Steely Dan, Toto, and Christopher Cross since 2016.

Also over at the Rock, SLO Brew Live and (((folkYEAH!))) present Lady Wray and opening act Brainstory on Wednesday, Aug. 2 (doors at 7 p.m.; 18-and-older; $25 at ticketweb.com). Lady Wray, née Nicole Monica Wray, grew up in Virginia, and as a 15-year-old, she caught the performance bug after auditioning for Missy Elliot. She was signed on the spot, and two years later in 1998, she released her debut solo album with the single “Make It Hot,” that blew up the charts and the clubs.

Mid-State Fair

I braved the fair last week, and after many years of skipping it, I’m glad I went. It was a blast, and the pro tip is to park in the Lowe’s parking lot and take the free shuttle. Ninetime Latin Grammy winners Los Tucanes de Tijuana play the Chumash Grandstand Stage

on Thursday, July 27 (7:30 p.m.; $35 to $75 at midstatefair. com), and you can enjoy an evening of music and wine with classic rock band Styx on Friday, July 28 (7:30 p.m.; $35 to $75 at midstatefair.com).

More music …

As usual, the place to be this Friday, July 29 is the Mission Plaza for the next Concerts in the Plaza featuring Ghost/Monster frontwoman Nataly Lola playing a solo set at 5 p.m., following by headliner Brass Mash playing their horn and percussion instrumental mash-ups of popular songs starting at 6 p.m. Brass Mash is a first-class party band.

LA-based urban pop band Undecided Future plays their award-winning funk at Vespera Resort on the Pismo Beach boardwalk this Saturday, July 29, on the hotel’s Starlight Lawn. If I’m not mistaken, this is the resort’s very first outdoor concert. The public is invited to make a day of it and enjoy “Grill and Chill” barbecue on the lawn starting at noon, with the band playing from 3 to 6 p.m.

Modern blues rock quartet Devil’s Game plays Atascadero’s Outlaws Bar, Grill & Casino this Saturday, July 29 (5 to 8 p.m.; 21-and-older). They’ve added a sax player, so things are about to get extra cool.

The Basin Street Regulars are hosting another hot jazz concert this Sunday, July 30, at the Pismo Beach Vets Hall (Jam session starts at 11 a.m., concert at 1; $15 at the door or online at my805tix.com). The Talia Ortega Quartet opens. She’s a multi-instrumentalist (flute, saxophone) and terrific singer. Swing and jump blues act The Jump Jax featuring singer-songwriter Ted Waterhouse is the headliner.

Get in it to win it!

Time’s running out to submit your recordings to the 2023 New Times Music Awards, which is accepting entries through Monday, Aug. 14, at 5 p.m. You can enter up to 13 songs in the six genre categories and the songwriters contest, as well one album. Genres include Country/Folk/ Americana, Rock/ Alternative, HipHop/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.

TIME’S RUNNING OUT You have until Aug. 14 to enter the 2023 New Times Music Awards and secure your chance to win a Newtie. Gotta be in it to win it!

STARKEY from page 28

STRAIGHT OUTTA FINLAND The Charades bring their vintage ’60s and ’70s surf sounds to The Siren on July 28

FILE PHOTO BY STEVE E. MILLER

CHERISH WHYTE

Casual and classy

Barley

Barley & Boar, or B&B, is so much more than its name. While Barley references beer and Boar is a nod to meat, the Atascadero restaurant is a brewhouse, distillery, and farm-to-table eatery all rolled into one.

Boasting chic décor courtesy of interior designer Lori Krivacsy of Paso Robles, housemade brews and distilled spirits crafted in collaboration with A-Town’s Tent City Beer, and full creative autonomy granted by parent company North County Restaurant Group, Barley & Boar promises a meal to remember.

Executive Chef Sean Deniz, sous chef Cordell Pheasant, and bartender Ezekiel Dubois from A-Town, along with General Manager Albert Silva-Flores of Avila Beach have joined forces on the new restaurant, which opened in May. The hot spot replaced Pair With Dead Oak on Entrada Avenue and is open for dinner, with lounge seating till midnight.

“B&B represents everything I love about the industry,” Deniz said. “This business has many aspects to showcase, especially with an open-kitchen design—the grit,

Taste what’s in season

Barley & Boar, located at 5925 Entrada Ave. in Atascadero, is open Tuesday to Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m. Enjoy $5 well drinks, house wine, B&B beer, and FernetBranca shots from 9 p.m. to midnight during late-night happy hour. Visit barleyandboar.com for more information, and follow the eatery on Instagram and Facebook @barleyandboar.

the attention to detail, the freedom, the unity, the culture, and the ability to push limits. I’ve always envisioned cooking in a restaurant like this.”

The cuisine is fresh, seasonal, and eclectic.

“Cooking is a feeling, and it changes almost every day,” Deniz explained. “I couldn’t say that I prefer one cuisine or style more than the other. That mentality is pretty much how I create Barley & Boar’s menus. I develop ideas or inspirations based on what I would like to go out and eat at the time.”

Pheasant added that the menu all depends on the time of year.

“If the fishing is good or if someone brings me some venison they harvested, we may dish it up. Farmers’ markets are a huge inspiration,” he said. “Sean and I honestly write half our menus walking around the market like dorks laughing at each other. I love all cuisines and styles of food, and I’ve been blessed to get to work with most of them.”

Translated to Barley & Boar’s menus— which are revamped monthly and finessed daily—elaborate entrees feature beef, pork, poultry, seafood, pasta, and vegetarian options jazzed up with flavorful side dishes and sauces du jour.

July standouts include The Beef—slow-smoked short rib with fermented plum barbecue, buttermilk onion rings, sliced brioche, and pickled market vegetables—and The Fish— crusted halibut with mid-neck clams, chorizo, spiced gingercarrot broth, and warm potato salad.

Most ingredients are sourced locally from partner vendors such as Mighty Cap Mushrooms, Stepladder Ranch & Creamery, Lazy B Hill, Bautista Family Farms, Mt. Olive Organic Farm,

Back Porch Bakery, Hayashi Farms, Olea Farm, and Solvang Spice Merchant, as well as from livestock specialist Rancho Llano Seco in Chico.

The bar is an entity of its own, with creative drinks meticulously developed by Dubois, a former bartender at Guest House Grill in Atascadero, who loves meeting new people and making cocktails.

“Our cocktail list is an amalgamation of flavors that I love,” Dubois said.

A prime example is Maiden’s Blossom, a blend of unique yet complementary ingredients “centered around lychee, a flavor that often goes unused, at least where I’m from,” he continued. “There are dragon fruit popping boba at the bottom … and a smoke-filled bubble on top that adds an element of experience to the drink.”

Select beer and liquor are created in partnership with Tent City owner Kendall Bryson, “a fantastic brewer-distiller,” Deniz added. “He crafts our vodka and gin, and soon we want to start a whiskey and rum.”

The menu will change biannually, with seasonal specialty cocktails sprinkled into the mix.

“I couldn’t be happier with our team,” Deniz said. “We share a mutual respect for

the ingredients and a genuine love for our profession.”

A self-taught chef, Deniz climbed the ranks at various restaurants in Santa Maria and the Five Cities area before landing a job in Atascadero. He’s worked for the North County Restaurant Group (NCRG) since 2018.

“In that time, NCRG owners Eric Peterson and Trevor LaSalle have entrusted me with the title of executive chef for their locations.”

Deniz said. “Barley & Boar was our most recent project that intrigued me from the very beginning, allowing me to expand my culinary creations freely while also maintaining my sobriety of nearly four years.

“My greatest motivation in the kitchen and in my life is not only accepting the amount of time I’ve lost due to my struggles with addiction, but also using that idea to motivate me to be the best representation of myself that I can possibly be.”

Deniz’s second in command, Pheasant— who’s helmed kitchens at The Inn at Morro Bay, Robin’s Restaurant in Cambria, Cambria Pines Lodge, SeaVenture Restaurant in Pismo Beach, and Betty Restaurant and Bar in Seattle—says it’s an honor working alongside Deniz.

THE BIRD Dinner entrees at Barley & Boar in Atascadero reflect the season and whim of chefs Sean Deniz and Cordell Pheasant. June’s menu featured duck leg confit with creamed corn, smoked poblano arancini, kabocha seed mole, and herbs.

COME ON IN Executive Chef Sean Deniz, left, of Atascadero and General Manager Albert Silva-Flores of Avila Beach are excited to welcome guests into Barley & Boar, part of North County Restaurant Group’s growing collection of eateries.

PHOTO BY CHERISH WHYTE

ENTRY

Local

Enter

EDUCATION TODAY

PUBLICATION DATE: August 10

ENTER PHOTOS: August 24–Sept. 18

BOOK ADS BY: October 13

PUBLICATION DATE: October 19

STUDENT

AUTUMN ARTS BOOK ADS BY: Sept. 22

MENUS BOOK ADS BY: Sept. 28

Sept. 28

PUBLISHED: October 2023

32 • New Times • July 27 - August 3, 2023 • www.newtimesslo.com

“Truly, the guy is a beast in the kitchen,” Pheasant said. “He works tirelessly to make sure all is in place for us. He is such a talented chef—no ego, no judgment, just a brother that likes to play with food as much as I do.”

General Manager Silva-Flores thinks both chefs are top-notch.

“Out of all my years in the industry, chefs Cordell and Sean are the best I have ever had the pleasure to work with,” he said.

And Silva-Flores has worked at many establishments, including Megan’s Organic Market and BarrelHouse Brewing Taproom and Speakeasy in San Luis Obispo, The Siren in Morro Bay, and San Diego’s Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens-Liberty Station, and Bassmnt and Parq nightclubs.

Opening Barley & Boar was a dream come true for Silva-Flores.

“I looked into it, and after meeting the … chefs and owners I knew that this place was going to be something special,” he said. “[Our] dishes are familiar, but with bold twists. From preparation to the final plating, everything is planned and has a purpose, and the chefs are always thinking about what is next.”

Deniz added that the team’s goals for Barley & Boar are simple: “To create an unforgettable experience for our guests and crew, to develop a core restaurant—one that we can all be proud of—in our small town of Atascadero, and to establish ourselves among the top five restaurants of the Central Coast.” ∆

Flavor Writer Cherish Whyte thinks Barley & Boar’s goals are already within reach. Contact her at cwhyte@newtimesslo.com.

FLAVOR from page 31

EASY ON THE ICE Barley & Boar bartender Ezekiel “Easy”

Dubois of Atascadero crafts a Maiden’s Blossom original cocktail with Bacardi Silver, dry sake, dragon fruit boba, lychee puree, fresh squeezed lemon juice, and sparkling wine.

2015 KIA FORTE LX SEDAN

1.8 4cyl, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, gray pearl, 93k miles. #259775 $10,988

2010 NISSAN MURANO SL SW

3.5 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, Bose, pseats, rack, alloy, silver, gray cloth, 69K low miles. #007292 $11,988

2013 FORD EDGE LTD SUV

3.5 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, pan roof, 2pseats, pearl white, black thr, 111K miles. #B11774 $13,988

2001 FORD F250 SD CREW CAB XLT 4WD

7.3 Powerstroke Diesel, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, gold, tan cloth, SRW, alloys. #A13660 $16,988

3.6 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm prem snd, 2pseats, dk blue, white lthr, prem whls. #357335

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE

TS No. CA-23-956109-BF

Order No.: 230141141-CA-VOI

YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 6/3/2004. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 to the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state, will be held by duly appointed trustee. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. BENEFICIARY MAY ELECT TO BID

LESS THAN THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE.

Trustor(s): ROGELIO A. RODRIGUEZ AND MARIA E. RODRIGUEZ, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS

Recorded: 6/24/2004 as Instrument

No. 2004055110 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of SAN LUIS OBISPO County, California; Date of Sale: 8/15/2023 at 11:00AM Place of Sale: In the breezeway adjacent to the County General Services Building, located at 1087 Santa Rosa Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93408 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges:

$242,863.74 The purported property address is: 2131 ARRIBA PL, ARROYO GRANDE, CA 93420-5808 Assessor’s Parcel No.: 091-193-006 NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property.

NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 916939-0772 for information regarding the trustee’s sale or visit this internet website http://www.qualityloan.com, using the file number assigned to this foreclosure by the Trustee: CA-23-956109-BF.

Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the internet website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TEN-

ANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 916939-0772, or visit this internet website http://www.qualityloan.com, using the file number assigned to this foreclosure by the Trustee: CA-23-956109-BF to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately

for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. NOTICE TO PROSPECTIVE

OWNER-OCCUPANT: Any prospective owner-occupant as defined in Section 2924m of the California Civil Code who is the last and highest bidder at the trustee’s sale shall provide the required affidavit or declaration of eligibility to the auctioneer at the trustee’s sale or shall have it delivered to QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION by 5 p.m. on the next business day following the trustee’s sale at the address set forth in the below signature block. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the property address or other common designation, if any, shown herein. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, including if the Trustee is unable to convey title, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the monies paid to the Trustee. This shall be the Purchaser’s sole and exclusive remedy. The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Trustor, the Trustee, the Beneficiary, the Beneficiary’s Agent, or the Beneficiary’s Attorney. If you have previously been discharged through bankruptcy, you may have been released of personal liability for this loan in which case this letter is intended to exercise the note holders right’s against the real property only.

Date: QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION 2763 Camino Del Rio S San Diego, CA 92108 619-645-7711

For NON SALE information only Sale

Line: 916-939-0772 Or Login to: http:// www.qualityloan.com Reinstatement

Line: (866) 645-7711 Ext 5318 QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION . TS No.: CA-23-956109-BF IDSPub #0186897 7/20/2023 7/27/2023 8/3/2023

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

CASE NUMBER: 23CVP-0212

To all interested persons:

Petitioner: Brian Ibarra Aranda filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT

NAME: Brian Ibarra Aranda to PRO-

NAME: Brian Alvarez Aranda

POSED

THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

CASE NUMBER: 23CV0390

To all interested persons:

Petitioner: Michaela Rose Muncy filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Michael Rose Muncy to PROPOSED

NAME: Michaela Rose Espy

THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING BRIEF

TUESDAY, JULY 18, 2023 AT 9:00 AM

5 BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT

01. Consent Agenda – Item Nos. 1-18 & Resolution (Res) Nos. 2023-182 thru 2023-195, approved.

02. Public Comment Period – Items not on the agenda: M. Brown: speaks. No action taken.

03. A request to authorize processed of a General Plan Amendment (GPA) & Ordinance Amendment (OA) application (LRP202300007) by C. Negranti to change the land use category from Residential Suburban (RS) to Industrial (IND) & to add a new planning area standard “E.2” to §22.94.082 of the Inland Land Use Ordinance (LUO) to establish a maximum allowable water use for future non-ag uses on an approx. 1-acre parcel/site (APN 027-321-005), located at 90 Wellsona Rd, Paso Robles, authorization approved.

04. A request to authorize processing of a GPA & LUO Amendment application (LRP2023-00003) by C. Weyrick to change the land use category from Residential Rural (RR) to RS on a 14.61-acre parcel (APN 040-201-047), & amend the Templeton Community Stds to change Figure 104-32 to reflect the land use category change & to remove §22.104.090(D)(3)(c) for 2 adjacent parcels totaling 12.05 acres (APNs: 040-201-046 & 056) under the same ownership & in the Commercial Service (CS) land use category, increasing the subdivision potential of the 14.61-acre parcel & would allow the applicant to construct additional shade covers for outdoor material storage on the 2 adjacent parcels, located west of HWY 101 & Theatre Dr & North of Championship Lane, Templeton, authorization approved.

05. A request to authorize processing of a GPA application (LRP2023-00002) by D. Crye to change the land use category from CS to Residential Multi-Family (RMF) on a site totaling 0.68 acres (APNs: 064-095-015 & 064-095-020), located at 249 Ash St & 273 Birch St, Cayucos, authorization approved.

WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Commission

WHEN Thursday, August 10, 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

A request for a sixth time extension by Coker Ellsworth Development LLC for Vesting Tentative Tract Map 2424 and Conditional Use Permit to subdivide an existing 1.69 acre parcel into a nine lot planned development with seven residential lots varying in size from 1,492 square feet to 2,224 square feet, a mini-storage lot of 34,500 square feet, and a non-buildable lot of 26,685 square feet to be held in common undivided interest by the owners of the other eight lots. The project includes seven two-story townhouses varying in size from 1,240 square feet to 1,522 square feet each and each including an attached garage of 494 to 519 square feet, two mini-storage buildings with a total structural area of 23,432 square feet and a mini-storage office of approximately 264 square feet. The project will include a retention basin, three on-site roadways, extension of utilities and a 120-foot buffer measured from the southerly/ southeasterly property line which is designated as a no habitable area. The project will result in the disturbance of the entire 1.69-acre parcel. The project site is within the Residential Multi-Family land use category and is located on the east side of South Halcyon Road, at Temple Street, approximately 400 feet south of The Pike, south of the City of Arroyo Grande. The site is in the San Luis Bay Inland Sub-area in the South County Planning Area.

A Negative Declaration (pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq., and CA Code of Regulations Section 15000 et seq.) was issued on November 13, 2008 for this project. The Negative Declaration was approved by the Board of Supervisors on December 16, 2008.

NOTICE OF HEARING:

Date: September 6, 2023, Time: 9:00 am, Dept. 4, in person or by zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1035 Palm St. Rm. 385, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times

Date: July 13, 2023

/s/: Tana L. Coates, Judge of the Superior Court July 27, August 3, 10, & 17, 2023

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 23CVP-0199

To all interested persons:

Petitioner: Trinda Kirsten Mauck filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT

NAME: Trinda Kirsten Mauck to PROPOSED

NAME: Trinda Kirsten Schmitz

06. Closed Session. Anticipated Litigation: Significant exposure to litigation - potential cases: 3. Initiation of litigation - potential cases: 3. Conference w/ Labor Negotiator re: employee organizations: SLOPA; SLOCEA-T&C; DCCA; Sheriffs’ Mgmt; SLOCPPOA; DSA; DAIA; SLOCPMPOA; SLOCEA – PSSC; Unrepresented Mgmt & Confidential Employees; SDSA; UDWA. Open Session. Report out.

07. Res. 2023-196, denying appeal by J. Rourke, upholding the Planning Commission’s decision to deny Tentative Tract Map TR3169 based on the findings, located at 10180 Los Osos Valley Rd, SLO, adopted.

08. Board Member Comments and Reports on Meetings, rec’d.

MEETING ADJOURNED

For more details, view the meeting videos at: https://www. slocounty.ca.gov/Departments/Administrative-Office/Clerk-ofthe-Board/Clerk-of-the-Board-Services/Board-of-SupervisorsMeetings-and-Agendas.aspx

John Nilon, Interim County Administrative Officer & Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of Supervisors

By: Annette Ramirez, Deputy Clerk of the Board of Supervisors

July 27, 2023

County File Number: N-EXT2023-00025

Supervisorial District: District 4 Assessor Parcel Number(s): 075-011-041

Date Accepted: 06/26/2023

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 Lane Sutherland, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-788-9470. 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 27, 2023

ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF HEARING:

Date: August 16, 2023, Time: 9:30 am, Dept. P2, in person or by zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 901 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times

Date: June 28, 2023 /s/: Tana L. Coates, Judge of the Superior Court July 13, 20, 27, & August 3, 2023

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

CASE NUMBER: 23CVP-0220

To all interested persons: Petitioner: Mariah R Avery filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Asher Jay Avery to PROPOSED NAME: Asher Jay O’Keefe

THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: August 23, 2023, Time: 9:30 am, Dept. P2, in person or by zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 901 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times

Date: July 5, 2023

Tana L. Coates, Judge of the Superior Court July 20, 27, August

THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: August 9, 2023, Time: 9:30 am, Dept. P2, in person or by zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 901 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times

Date: June 15, 2023

/s/: Tana L. Coates, Judge of the Superior Court June 29, July 6, 13, 20, & 27, 2023

Notice is hereby given that the San Luis Coastal Unified School District acting by and through its Board of Education will receive bids up to, but not later than 10:00:00 a.m. Thursday, August 24, 2023, for Bid #315 Measure C-22 Districtwide Fencing Project

A mandatory pre-bid informational meeting will be held on Monday, August 7, 2023, at 9:00:00 a.m. The meeting will begin at the Bellevue Santa Fe School Charter School located at 1401 San Luis Bay Drive, San Luis Obispo, and will continue with site visits to the following schools: Los Ranchos Elementary, C.L Smith Elementary, Laguna Middle, Los Osos Middle, Teach Elementary, and Sinsheimer Elementary. Failure to attend will render the bid non-responsive and subject to rejection by the District.

Proposals shall be received in the Facilities Office, San Luis Coastal Unified, 937 Southwood Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. Questions regarding Bid #315 may be directed in writing only to the Facilities Analyst, Kelly Lee, at klee@slcusd.org, and must be submitted no later than 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 15, 2023.

Project documents are available at the San Luis Coastal Online Planroom at www.asapreprographics.com.

The District reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, or accept or reject any one or more items of a proposal, or to waive any irregularities or informalities in the proposals.

Kelly Lee Facilities Analyst San

Luis Coastal Unified School

District

The San Luis Obispo Architectural Review Commission will hold a Regular Meeting on Monday, August 7, 2023, at 5:00 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 ITEM:

• Architectural review of a new multi-family, density bonus housing development within the R-4 zoned portion (Phase 3) of the Avila Ranch Development Plan, which includes 145 dwelling units. The project also includes a fence height exception to allow fence and wall combinations over nine (9) feet in height and a sign exception. The project is consistent with the certified Final EIR for the Avila Ranch Development Plan; Project Address: 4240 & 4280 Earthwood Lane and 165 Cessna Court; Case#: ARCH 0197-2023; Zone: R-4-SP; Wathen Castanos Homes, owners/applicants

Contact Information: Callie Taylor – (805) 781–7016 –cltaylor@slocity.org

July 27 & August 3, 2023

The Architectural Review Commission may also discuss other hearing or business items before or after the item(s) listed above. An action of the Architectural Review Commission is typically a recommendation to the City’s Community Development Director, Planning Commission or City Council, and therefore is not final. Please note that any court challenge related to the recommendation on this item may be limited to considering only those issues raised at the public hearing described in this notice or in written correspondence received prior to the public hearing. Report(s) are typically available one week 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 27, 2023

HEARING FOR

NOTICE OF PUBLIC

COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Commission

WHEN

Thursday, August 10, 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 the County of San Luis Obispo to approve amendments to the Land Use Ordinance, Title 22 of the County Code, (LRP2023-00010) to allow for four ordinance amendments including the Distilleries Ordinance, Guest Ranch Ordinance, Small Urban Wineries Ordinance, and Insertion of Arroyo Grande Fringe Area Map. The requested amendments include:

1) amendments of Title 22 to Table 2-2, Allowable Land Uses and Permit Requirements, Section 22.30, Standards for Specific Land Uses, Section 22.94, Section 22.18, Parking, and Section 22.80, Definitions. All Districts.

Also to be considered is the determination that this project is covered by the common sense exemption that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. The County of San Luis Obispo determines that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment and that the activity is not subject to CEQA.

County File Number: LRP2023-00010

Supervisorial District: All Districts

Assessor Parcel Number(s):Various

Date Accepted: N/A

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 Kip Morais, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-781-5600.

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

The Community Development and Economic Development Allocations of the State CDBG program will be published in a “Notice of Funding Availability” (NOFA) each program year.

Although the NOFA has not been released yet, staff are estimating that approximately $44 million will be made available statewide based on HCD guidance. Under the Community Development Allocation, eligible cities and counties will be allowed to apply for a maximum of $3,250,000 for up to two activities. The NOFA will again include an “Over the Counter” (OTC) component for infrastructure, housing, and economic development, as well as a competitive component for planning and public service programs.

Eligible activities under the above allocations in the NOFA consist of the following OTC categories: public improvements, public facilities, homeownership assistance, housing rehabilitation, business assistance and microenterprise activities. The nonOTC/competitive categories are planning studies and public service programs. Eligible activities paid for with state CDBG funds must meet one or more of the three national objectives listed in CDBG federal statutes as follows: benefit to lowincome households or persons; elimination of slums and blight; or meeting urgent community development need (a need from a state or federally declared disaster).

The purpose of this public hearing is to give interested citizens, civic organizations and groups an opportunity to express their opinions and ideas for the upcoming CDBG NOFA. Any proposed application to HCD would be considered at a future City Council public hearing.

If you require special accommodations to participate in the public hearing, please contact Janet Reese at (805) 473-4524. If you are unable to attend the public hearing, you may direct written comments to Janet Reese, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA or you may email them to jreese@groverbeach.org.

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

The City of Grover Beach promotes fair housing and makes all its programs available to low and moderate-income families regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual preference, marital status or handicap.

AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA PARA DISCUSIÓN DE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT DEL ESTADO DEL CALIFORNIA 2023 Y APLICACIONES POTENCIALES PARA FUENTE DE FINANCIAMIENTO

POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que la Ciudad de Grover Beach llevará a cabo una audiencia pública el lunes 7 de agosto de 2023 a las 6:00 p.m. en City Hall, Council Chambers, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA para discusiones posibles solicitudes de financiamiento para el programa de Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) de 2023 y para solicitar la opinión de los residentes sobre las posibles actividades que se incluirán en la solicitud y la revisión general del programa.

Las asignaciones de desarrollo económico y desarrollo comunitario del programa estatal CDBG se publicarán en un “Notice of Funding Availability” (NOFA) cada año del programa. Aunque el NOFA aún no se ha publicado, la personal estima que aproximadamente $44 millones estarán disponibles en todo el estado según la orientación del departamento de Housing and Community Development del estado de California. Bajo la Asignación para el Desarrollo Comunitario, las ciudades y condados elegibles podrán solicitar un máximo de $3,250,000 para hasta dos actividades. La NOFA volverá a incluir un componente “Over the Counter” (OTC) para infraestructura, vivienda y desarrollo económico, así como un componente competitivo para programas de planificación y servicio público.

Las actividades elegibles bajo las asignaciones anteriores en NOFA consisten en las siguientes categorías OTC: mejoras públicas, instalaciones públicas, asistencia para propietarios de viviendas, rehabilitación de viviendas, asistencia comercial y actividades de microempresas. Las categorías no OTC/ competitivas son estudios de planificación y programas de servicio público. Las actividades elegibles pagadas con fondos estatales de CDBG deben cumplir con uno o más de los tres objetivos nacionales enumerados en los estatutos federales de CDBG de la siguiente manera: beneficio para hogares o personas de bajos ingresos; eliminación de barrios marginales y ruina; o satisfacer la necesidad urgente de desarrollo de la comunidad (una necesidad de un desastre declarado por el estado o el gobierno federal).

El propósito de esta audiencia pública es dar a los residentes interesados, organizaciones cívicas y grupos la oportunidad de expresar sus opiniones y ideas para el próximo CDBG NOFA. Cualquier solicitud propuesta al HCD se consideraría en una futura audiencia pública del consejo municipal.

Si necesita adaptaciones especiales para participar en la audiencia pública, comuníquese con Janet Reese al (805) 473-4524. Si no puede asistir a la audiencia pública, puede enviar sus comentarios por escrito a Janet Reese, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA, o puede enviarlos por correo electrónico a jreese@groverbeach.org.

Si tiene alguna pregunta o desea obtener más información en español sobre el artículo descrito en este aviso, llame al Rafael Castillo, en el Community Development a (805) 473-4258 o envíe un correo electrónico a rcastillo@groverbeach.org

La ciudad de Grover Beach promueve la vivienda justa y pone todos sus programas a disposición de las familias de ingresos bajos y moderados, independientemente de su edad, raza, color, religión, sexo, origen nacional, preferencia sexual, estado civil o discapacidad.

Publish: on Thursday, July 27, 2023 Post: on Thursday, July 27, 2023

FOR

Free Will Astrology

ARIES

(March 21-April 19): You are about to read a thunderbolt of sublime prophecies. It’s guaranteed to nurture the genius in your soul’s underground cave. Are you ready? 1. Your higher self will prod you to compose a bold prayer in which you ask for stuff you thought you weren’t supposed to ask for. 2. Your higher self will know what to do to enhance your love life by at least 20 percent, possibly more. 3. Your higher self will give you extra access to creativity and imaginative powers, enabling you to make two practical improvements in your life.

TAURUS

(April 20-May 20): In 1991, John Kilcullen began publishing books with “for Dummies” in the title: for example, Sex for Dummies Time Management for Dummies, Personal Finance for Dummies and my favorite, Stress Management for Dummies There are now over 300 books in this series. They aren’t truly for stupid people, of course. They’re designed to be robust introductions to interesting and useful subjects. I invite you to emulate Kilcullen’s mindset, Taurus. Be innocent, curious, and eager to learn. Adopt a beginner’s mind that’s receptive to being educated and influenced. (If you want to know more, go here: tinyurl.com/TruthForDummies)

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): “I could be converted to a religion of grass,” says Indigenous author Louise Erdrich in her book Heart of the Land “Sink deep roots. Conserve water. Respect and nourish your neighbors. Such are the tenets. As for practice—grow lush in order to be devoured or caressed, stiffen in sweet elegance, invent startling seeds. Connect underground. Provide. Provide. Be lovely and do no harm.” I advocate a similar approach to life for you Geminis in the coming weeks. Be earthy, sensual, and lush. (PS: Erdrich is a Gemini.)

CANCER

(June 21-July 22): I hereby appoint myself as your temporary social director. My first action is to let you know that from an astrological perspective, the next nine months will be an excellent time to expand and deepen your network of connections and your web of allies. I invite you to cultivate a vigorous grapevine that keeps you up-to-date about the latest trends affecting your work and play. Refine your gossip skills. Be friendlier than you’ve ever been. Are you the best ally and collaborator you could possibly be? If not, make that one of your assignments.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22): There are two kinds of holidays: those created by humans and those arising from the relationship between the sun and Earth. In the former category are various independence days: July 4 in the U.S., July 1 in Canada, July 14 in France, and June 2 in Italy. Japan observes Foundation Day on Feb. 11. Among the second kind of holiday is Lammas on Aug. 1, a pagan festival that in the Northern Hemisphere marks the halfway point between the summer solstice and autumn equinox. In pre-industrial cultures, Lammas celebrated the grain harvest and featured outpourings of gratitude for the crops that provide essential food. Modern revelers give thanks for not only the grain, but all the nourishing bounties provided by the sun’s and Earth’s collaborations. I believe you Leos are smart to make Lammas one of your main holidays. What’s ready to be harvested in your world. What are your prime sources of gratitude?

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): For many of us, a disposal company regularly comes to our homes to haul away the garbage we have generated. Wouldn’t it be great if there was also a reliable service that purged our minds and hearts of the psychic gunk that naturally accumulates? Psychotherapists provide this blessing for some of us, and I know people who derive similar benefits from spiritual rituals. Getting drunk or intoxicated may work, too, although those states often generate their own dreck. With these thoughts in mind, Virgo, meditate on how you might cleanse your soul with a steady, ennobling practice. Now is an excellent time to establish or deepen this tradition.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): I’m wondering if there is a beloved person to whom you could say these words by Rumi: “You are the sky my spirit circles in, the love inside love, the resurrection-place.” If you have no such an ally, Libra, the coming months will be a favorable time to attract them into your life. If there is such a companion, I hope you will share Rumi’s lyrics with them, then go further. Say the words Leonard Cohen spoke: “When I’m with you, I want to be the kind of hero I wanted to be when I was 7 years old.”

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Your theme for the coming weeks is “pleasurable gooseflesh.” I expect and hope you’ll experience it in abundance. You need it and deserve it! Editor Corrie Evanoff describes “pleasurable gooseflesh” as “the primal response we experience when something suddenly violates our expectations in a good way.” It can also be called “frisson”—a French word meaning “a sudden feeling or sensation of excitement, emotion, or thrill.” One way this joy may occur is when we listen to a playlist of songs sequenced in unpredictable ways—say Mozart followed by Johnny Cash, then Edit Piaf, Led Zeppelin, Blondie, Queen, Luciano Pavarotti, and Yellow Magic Orchestra. Here’s your homework: Imagine three ways you can stimulate pleasurable gooseflesh and frisson, then go out and make them happen.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): “Fire rests by changing,” wrote ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus. In accordance with astrological omens, I ask you to meditate on that riddle. Here are some preliminary thoughts: The flames rising from a burning substance are always moving, always active, never the same shape. Yet they comprise the same fire. As long as they keep shifting and dancing, they are alive and vital. If they stop changing, they die out and disappear. The fire needs to keep changing to thrive! Dear Sagittarius, here’s your assignment: Be like the fire; rest by changing.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): There’s ample scientific evidence that smelling cucumbers can diminish feelings of claustrophobia. For example, some people become anxious when they are crammed inside a narrow metal tube to get an MRI. But numerous imaging facilities have reduced that discomfort with the help of cucumber oil applied to cotton pads and brought into proximity of patients’ noses. I would love it if there were also natural ways to help you break free of any and all claustrophobic situations, Capricorn. The coming weeks will be a favorable time to hone and practice the arts of liberation.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “Silent gratitude isn’t very much use to anyone,” said Aquarian author Gertrude B. Stein. She was often quirky and even downright weird, but as you can see, she also had a heartful attitude about her alliances. Stein delivered another pithy quote that revealed her tender approach to relationships. She said that love requires a skillful audacity about sharing one’s inner world. I hope you will put these two gems of advice at the center of your attention, Aquarius. You are ready for a strong, sustained dose of deeply expressive interpersonal action.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20): According to the International Center for Academic Integrity, 95 percent of high school students acknowledge they have participated in academic cheating. We can conclude that just one of 20 students have never cheated—a percentage that probably matches how many noncheaters there are in every area of life. I mention this because I believe it’s a favorable time to atone for any deceptions you have engaged in, whether in school or elsewhere. I’m not necessarily urging you to confess, but I encourage you to make amends and corrections to the extent you can. Also: Have a long talk with yourself about what you can learn from your past cons and swindles. ∆

Go to RealAstrology.com to check out Rob Brezsny's expanded weekly horoscopes and daily text message horoscopes The audio horoscopes are also available by phone at 1-877-873-4888 (fees apply). ©Copyright 2023 Rob Brezsny

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