Grover Beach Mayor Karen Bright isn’t running for reelection. She served one term as the city’s top elected official, and after everything that unfolded in that past year, that was enough. Former Mayor Debbie Peterson co-created Grover H20, which grew out of unrest over increased water rates and started “disrupting or sowing seeds of distrust,” Bright said. With Peterson running for mayor this year against newcomer Kassi Dee and current Councilmember Robert Robert, the city’s recent division is in the spotlight. Staff Writer Samantha Herrera speaks with Bright and all the candidates [8] Also this week, read about how much money the Democratic Party of San Luis Obispo is bringing in and from whom [9]; the Werewolf of Arroyo Grande at the Melorama [22]; and FirstFruits Farm in SLO [29]
Camillia Lanham editor
courtesy of Kassi Dee, Robert Robert, and Debbie Peterson cover design by Alex Zuniga
member Debbie Peterson (right) is running against Kassi Dee (left) and current Councilmember Robert Robert.
Grover Beach candidates discuss infrastructure needs, public comment
During a Sept. 17 candidate forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of San Luis Obispo County, Grover Beach City Council candidates told residents how they would raise money to fix streets and fund infrastructure projects.
But a big topic of discussion was how candidates would ensure that citizens feel heard if they were elected, since the current council recently moved public comment for items not on the agenda to the end of council meetings.
Kathy McCorry, who’s running against Marsha Boylanatz for the 3rd District seat current Councilmember Zach Zimmerman is vacating, said that if she becomes a council member, she would work on improving alternative ways and new opportunities for residents to reach the city.
“I believe that the residents should be able to reach City Council by writing, by phoning in, by calling in. I think all of those options need to be improved upon, and I think we can make it easier for people to communicate with the council,” she said. “They shouldn’t always have to come to City Council during a certain time to be able to ask a question. There should be a way that you can write it down and send it in and send it to our city staff so that they can bring it to our attention, but I do think we need to look for more opportunities and different ways to communicate.”
Bolyanatz, a member of local activist group Grover H2O, said she will work on moving that public comment period back to the beginning of meetings because she doesn’t believe in making people wait to have their voices heard.
“I think everybody has the right, every constituent has the right to
be heard at a reasonable time,” she said. “The other thing is that we’ve had some issues, electronic issues, with people wanting to call in who were never recognized during meetings, and I think we should make that a priority with it. If people can’t make the meeting to give their thoughts and their comments, then they call in, and I don’t think that has been promoted as much as it should.”
One community member asked candidates about Measure G-24, the initiative to repeal water and wastewater rates. They wondered how the city would be able to maintain future maintenance and infrastructure projects.
McCorry said while she “doesn’t have a crystal ball that’s going to answer that particular question,” she does anticipate having to do some budgeting.
“It’ll probably come with some pain. What the community wants to wait on, how long we can sustain our current infrastructure, those questions will have to be asked and answered,” she said. “I have faith that we will do it. The City Council will listen to what everybody wants.”
Bolyanatz said she would advocate for using the funds the city already has available to prioritize fixing structures that need crucial repairs first.
“I’m recalling how we promoted [Measure] K-14 and the way K-14 worked for repairing the roads was the City Council at the time … went ahead and prioritized and fixed those streets that weren’t as critical and as dangerous as the ones that were the ones that were really needing repairs,” she said. “Also, I would say go ahead and use the funds that we would have available from budgeting to go and fix the water issue there and the necessary repairs … that are more critical than others.”
Current Councilmember Clint Weirick is running for the 4th District seat, but he’s unopposed and didn’t join the panel to answer questions. To learn more about the mayoral race, read “Division and change” on page 8. ∆
—Samantha Herrera
Former SLO County Supervisor candidate charged with fraud, perjury
Once the write-in contender for the San Luis Obispo County 3rd District supervisor seat, Grover Beach resident Michelle Morrow must now contend with criminal charges stemming from her decision to run for the post.
The District Attorney’s Office filed four charges against Morrow, 55, on Sept. 11 for voter registration fraud, submitting false nomination papers, perjury by declaration, and fraudulent voting. Morrow allegedly committed these crimes when she competed in the March 5 primary against incumbent 3rd District Supervisor Dawn OrtizLegg.
“It is alleged that Michelle M. Morrow committed the crime of voter registration fraud when she registered to vote at an address where she did not reside. Additional offenses were committed on Feb.
16, 2024, when she submitted paperwork to run for the District 3 seat on the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors when in fact she lived in District 4,” the DA’s Office said in a press release.
SLO County Clerk-Recorder Elaina Cano didn’t respond to New Times’ request for comment by press time.
Morrow’s course to the election was rocky too.
In February, the Clerk-Recorder’s Office rejected her candidacy papers because the musician and founder of referral agency Morrow Support wasn’t living in the 3rd District for long enough to be eligible. Candidates must reside in the district for which they are running in for at least 30 days. The Clerk-Recorder’s Office eventually gave Morrow the go-ahead to be a write-in candidate, which meant she didn’t have her name on the ballot nor a statement in the Voter Information Guide.
By the end of the primary election, 866 people wrote Morrow’s name in their ballots as their
preferred 3rd District Supervisor. It made up 6.6 percent of the total vote share, resulting in a landslide victory for Ortiz-Legg.
A group named the Committee to Elect Michelle Morrow for District 3 SLO County Supervisor served as the funding recipient in campaign finance filings. County residents like “Sandy Boo” or Sandra Bocchicchio and Marlea Harmon advocated for Morrow on Facebook. The DA’s Office complaint notes the possible involvement of other people in Morrow’s alleged crimes, which were carried out in a way that showed “planning, sophistication, and professionalism.”
Further, the complaint also accuses Morrow of being hostile.
“The defendant threatened witnesses, unlawfully prevented and dissuaded witnessed from testifying, suborned perjury, and in any other way illegally interfered with the judicial process,” the complaint read.
OUR VALUES Grover Beach candidates discuss why they are running and what changes they would like to bring to the city during a recent forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of SLO County.
PHOTO BY SAMANTHA HERRERA
Dominic Marshall Lencioni
Dominic was born on April 14, 2005, in Visalia, CA. He was called home to God on September 7, 2024. He is survived by his parents, Marshall and Delores Lencioni; his big sister, Jenna; future brother-in-law, Carlos Padilla; grandparents, Wayne and Marty Bucholz; his high school sweetheart, Emileigh Juarez; his aunts and uncles: Chrissy Lencioni, Dan and Sara Medrano, Douglas Medrano, Ernest Medrano, Susan and Tim Rinehart, Cynthia Medrano, Loretta and Ron Hall, Anthony and Monica Medrano, David and Cindy Medrano, Catherine and Mark Zurlo, 16 first cousins, seven second cousins, and his extended and bonus family. He is preceded in death by his grandfather Paul Lencioni and his grandparents Danny and Dolores Medrano.
Dominic moved to Arroyo Grande with his family when he was three months old. He attended St. Patrick’s School, Ocean View Elementary, and Paulding Junior High. He graduated from Arroyo Grande High School in 2023 where he was on the wrestling team for four years and received the coach’s Golden Eagle Character award his senior year. When he was a freshman, he also played football and participated in track.
Although he struggled in the K-12 system, his educational world changed tremendously when he started Chico State in fall 2023 as a Concrete Industry Management (CIM) major. He was interested in this major because it offered hands-on learning and experiences, a variety of career options, and he knew his future career would not involve being stuck in an office all day. Chico State was Dominic’s second home. He loved the campus, the people and all the outdoor activities in near proximity, although it did take him a bit to get used to the heat. He met many great friends and was a member of Tau Gamma Theta fraternity. He felt the brothers reminded him of his lifelong friends back home. As a CIM major, he recently completed an internship over the summer with Skate4Concrete and New Line Skateparks. This internship provided the opportunity for Dominic to travel, do hands-on work applicable to his major and future career, to meet new people and make connections in the concrete industry, and most importantly, he was working on a new skate park in Torrington, CT, that would provide a place for skaters to do their thing for many years to come. He returned with a new enthusiasm and passion for his future. He enjoyed his internship so much that he hoped to be able to work on the next skate park project in the summer of 2025.
of his favorite times on the water were at the Sacramento River, Lake Nacimiento, Lake Powell, and Shasta Lake. He spent many years skating locally in Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo, Nipomo, Chico, Santa Barbara, San Diego, and out of state during his Skate4Concrete internship in Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey.
Dominic lived life to the absolute fullest. He was loyal to his family and his ever-expanding friend group. He didn’t know a stranger and he was considered a best friend by many. It didn’t matter if he had known you for years or a just a few months, he made an impact on you. He had a big heart and he wasn’t afraid to love big, and in turn he was loved big back. He was caring, thoughtful, kind, respectful, gave the best hugs, and it has been said that he was just a cool guy. His smile and his laugh were infectious, and you couldn’t help but smile when you were with him. He brought joy and light to those around him with his positive attitude and easygoing personality. He had the innate ability to draw people together and was the first person to help a friend in need. From a very young age, he was as skilled conversationalist. He could talk with anyone regardless of their age. Dominic was inquisitive; he was not afraid to ask questions, to share his opinion, or to question the opinion of others to gain a better understanding of the topic being discussed. He also spoke with conviction when he was particularly passionate about something, and his close friends would often say “Dom is Domming.” There aren’t enough words to express how truly special he was. His superpower was to bring love, joy, and laughter to those around him. Although his life was short, his impact on those around him was immense. He will be missed tremendously. The family encourages those who knew and loved Dominic to honor his memory and to “be more like Dom.”
As a lover of the great outdoors, Dominic enjoyed camping, hiking, fishing, exploring, and off-roading. He was always up for an adventure on land, water, or snow. Many of his passions involved a board: wakeboarding, snowboarding, and of course skateboarding. He also enjoyed wake surfing and water skiing.
A celebration of life will be held in Arroyo Grande on Saturday, September 21, at 1 p.m. at Grace Bible Church, 100 Rodeo Drive, followed by an outdoor reception at 1222 Huasna Road (comfortable shoes are recommended). The family has asked that guests wear colors to celebrate Dominic; no black unless it’s a concert or skate shirt or fraternity letters. A live stream of the service will be viewable at https://youtube.com/live/8Tu2j20xGs8?feature=share. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to either of the following:
• The Dominic Lencioni Memorial Wrestling Scholarship at Arroyo Grande High School. Venmo @Delores-Lencioni or mail to Delores Lencioni/1026 Sycamore Dr./Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
• The Dominic Lencioni Legacy Concrete Skatepark Internship https://www.skate4concrete.com/dominic-lencioni-fund/
Some
Morrow’s case will be the prosecuted by the Public Integrity Unit of the DA’s Office. Set up in 2015 by DA Dan Dow, the unit sniffs out public corruption at all levels of government and aims to hold elected officials, public employees, and candidates for office accountable.
Morrow didn’t respond to New Times’ request for comment. She posted a bond with the SLO Superior Court on Sept. 12 and will be arraigned on Oct. 10. If convicted, Morrow faces the options of probation, county jail confinement, or state prison time.
—Bulbul Rajagopal
San Simeon Pier repairs underway after storm damage
The San Simeon Pier is starting reconstruction after being closed for nearly a year due to structural damage.
“This is a full rehabilitation of the pier,” California State Parks SLO Coast District Superintendent Dan Falat said about the project that started at the pier on Sept. 16. Built by SLO County in 1957 for recreational purposes, the pier is now part of Hearst San Simeon State Park. Previously, the pier was used for commercial fishing and trading services dating back to before the construction of Hearst Castle.
According to Falat, park officials have been monitoring the structure and safety of the pier since 2018 and have seen a steady decline in its structure since then.
After major storms in 2021, the park was forced to close off portions of the pier due to detached pilings—vertical supports used to anchor the pier into the sea floor. By October 2023, and after even more historic storms, the pier was damaged enough to be closed entirely.
“Having it closed is definitely not something that we want to have happen, but we want to make sure that the pier is safe,” Falat said. “We want to return the pier back to a state where it is safe and can be enjoyed by the millions of visitors that come to the coast here and enjoy it year after year.”
Falat said the entire project is estimated to take about eight months, depending on weather and tidal conditions.
Construction of the 850-foot-long structure includes replacing any missing or deteriorating pilings and cross bracing, building new upper railings and deck, as well as installing a new water line in order for the structure to be fully operational.
In total, the project is estimated to cost $4.5 million, and Falat said State Parks has been preparing for this expense since the damage started in 2021.
“It’s been a long time coming,” he said. “And we’re looking forward to the visitors coming back and enjoying what they haven’t been able to enjoy for the last year.”
According to Falat, marine wildlife safety will be carefully monitored throughout the project with the help of contracted professionals.
“We will have monitors on site during the work so that they can ensure that [the project] is following all those rules and regulations, along with my environmental staff,” he said. “There’s a whole slew of folks that are there just to ensure … it adheres to all CEQA [California Environmental Quality Act] processes.”
While a portion of the nearby parking lot will be roped off for material storage, beach access will remain open during construction.
—Libbey Hanson
Board of Supervisors approves more offshore wind studies
Three offshore wind farm studies are in the works around SLO County after the Board of Supervisors voted to approve studies of the waterfront infrastructure of Port San Luis, the Cal Poly Pier, and Morro Bay.
During its Sept. 10 meeting, the board agreed to use a $1 million state grant awarded to the county in 2022 to support a study to assess the technical suitability of those areas to support potential wind farms.
Mott McDonald—a global engineering company—will separate its work into two studies: one for San Luis Obispo Bay, which includes Port San Luis and the Cal Poly Pier, and one for Morro Bay.
“The scope of work for each study includes the following: project kick-off meetings, basis of assessments and existing conditions assessment, navigation and dredging assessment, environmental and permitting assessment, conceptual waterfront infrastructure and design, and costs estimate,” according to the staff report.
The grant is part of California’s DeepWater Port Feasibility Study for Offshore Wind Procurement and both studies are expected to run parallel with each other.
After a long public comment period where several county residents voiced their disdain for wind farms off the Central Coast, 3rd District Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg said those comments were why studies are so important. There’s a lot of misinformation, she said, and people are “scared to death.”
“For us not to go forth with this study would be completely irresponsible. We have the electrification of the maritime industry that’s happening, we have the need to support other ocean users, whether it’s recreation, commercial fishermen, our tourism industry,” she said. “Our tourism industry comes in No. 2 here. These are all important and have relationship to this. We have the long-term job, and it’s great that people are retired and can go kayak and do these things, but we have to think about the future and the children of the future and what they’re going to be doing.”
This isn’t the first time Ortiz-Legg has voiced her support for wind farm support feasibility studies. During an Aug. 27 Port San Luis Harbor District meeting, residents were upset that commissioners voted on July 23 to move forward with Clean Energy Terminals (CET) on a study about whether Port San Luis could potentially support offshore wind development.
Ortiz-Legg came to the commissioner’s defense during public comment in August, thanking the district for a staff report that she felt provided the community with a thorough background and information on offshore wind.
“When I look at the past, I think that must have been really hard for change when they took out the railroad that came into the port, and it must have been hard when the change happened when the people’s harbor was taken out of the area that is now Pirates Cove,” she said. “Change is really challenging for us but can really be a lot of positives as well.”
—Samantha Herrera
SLO drops impact fee waivers for affordable housing projects in favor of deferrals
The city of San Luis Obispo removed the option of waiving impact fees for developers engaged in creating affordable housing, replacing it with a deferral scheme and updating a 17-year-old resolution.
“The city’s existing practice of granting impact fee deferrals helps to accelerate the production of below-market rate—that’s low income and below—units, especially those constructed by affordable housing developers using tax credits,” city Housing Coordinator David Amini said at the Sept. 17 SLO City Council meeting.
The City Council unanimously voted to adopt a draft resolution that supersedes one that’s been around since 2007 that not only allowed development impact fee waivers for voluntary affordable housing projects taken on by private developers but also applied it to accessory dwelling units. The new resolution brings the city in line with California Government Code that directly regulates impact fees applicable to accessory dwelling units, prompting the removal of that provision in the update.
Now, the impact fee deferral system is a loan on the property for 20 years with an annual simple fixed interest rate of 3 percent, which must be paid in full at the end of the term.
Previously, impact fee deferral loans approved by the city had to be paid off within 30 to 55 years with interest rates between 3 and 4 percent. Over the past decade, impact fee deferrals helped build 300 units of housing across eight projects. It totaled in roughly $5 million in deferred fees, which in turn aided in leveraging more than $60 million in tax credit equity.
SLO categorizes eligible impact fees as fire, parkland in-lieu, parks and recreation development, and transportation impact fees. The deferral doesn’t apply to special district and water and wastewater impact fees.
“Wastewater and water development impact fees have historically not been deferred, as the revenue from these fees offsets the need to increase rates for existing users,” the staff report read.
Housing projects eligible for deferred fees provide units in excess of SLO’s inclusionary housing requirements, which would be rented to low, very low, extremely low, or acutely low-income households. Housing projects restricted for lower-income residents that are built, owned, and managed by a government agency or a nonprofit housing organization also qualify for deferred impact fees.
Housing Authority of SLO Executive Director Scott Collins told council members that the new deferral format will be incorporated into the group’s future affordable housing developments.
“This is an incredibly important component of our overall funding package to be competitive on the market for tax credits,” Collins said during the public comment period. “That’s how we build projects, all of them, effectively. We understand the need to balance the loan provisions against the need for financial support for what you’re trying to do as a community.”
—Bulbul Rajagopal
Coastal Commission delays decision on Cambria motel project
Visions of a new 26-unit Moonstone motel on Cambria’s Burton Drive won’t come to fruition anytime soon after the Coastal Commission delayed the review of the motel’s construction and water use.
Moonstone Hotel Properties owner Dirk Winter wants to reconstruct the former Brambles restaurant and gift shop Oliver’s Twist into a motel and received approval from SLO County to start construction this summer. After an appeal placed the project on hold, another recent delay has made the motel’s future even more unclear.
At its Sept. 12 meeting, the California Coastal Commission determined a “substantial issue” with the appeal submitted against the motel by commissioners Justin Cummings and Ann Notthoff, who argued Cambria did not have the water supply to sustain the motel under the SLO County Local Coastal Program, despite the county previously determining that it did.
As a result, the Coastal Commission delaying the motel’s hearing indefinitely.
Moonstone Hotel Properties Marketing Director Brittney Hatteberg told New Times via email that while the project is put on hold for foreseeable future, the company understands that delays are part of the legal process and are not going to give up the project.
“We believe in the integrity of the original design and are confident that it meets the necessary requirements,” she said.
Substantial issues arose when the Coastal Commission received a 124-page letter from applicant Winter’s attorney on Sept. 11—just one day before the commission was to review the appeal against the motel.
The attorney’s letter said the appeal “contains a number of material errors that render its recommendations ill-advised,” and urged the commission to approve the project and issue a coastal development permit for the motel’s construction.
Central Coast District Manager Kevin Kahn and Central Coast Coastal Planner Devon Jackson issued an addendum that same day, summarizing the corrections that the attorney’s letter listed against the appeal including a numerical typo and additional information that was inadvertently left out of the appeal.
While the addendum stated the attorney’s letter did not bring up any additional information, the corrections needed to be incorporated into the appeal report for the commission’s review.
“While voluminous, staff believe that most of the points raised in the letter are not new and are therefore adequately addressed in the staff report,” the addendum read. “Staff nonetheless takes the opportunity herein to respond to some of the points alleged and to incorporate them as commission findings in the staff report.”
Based on these updates, the Coastal Commission determined that the appeal contained enough substantial issues that it would not be reviewed at the Sept. 12 meeting.
When contacted for a statement, Coastal Commission Public Information Officer Joshua Smith told New Times via email that the “project raises coastal resource concerns as articulated in the staff report, and we intend to discuss this with the applicant to better understand their position.”
—Libbey Hanson
BY
Division and change
Civil unrest at City Council meetings and a growing divide in the community mark a pivotal election year in Grover Beach as three candidates vie to become mayor.
Current Mayor Karen Bright, Grover H2O spokesperson and former Mayor Debbie Peterson, current City Councilmember Robert Robert, and local business owner Kassi Dee sat down with New Times
Mayor Karen Bright
Mayor Bright took her shot at becoming Grover Beach mayor in 2022 and won, but the two-year term hasn’t been a smooth ride and she isn’t running again.
The aftermath of the council’s vote to raise water rates to fund the Central Coast Blue project was a recall attempt against her and fellow Councilmembers Daniel Rushing and Zach Zimmerman and the beginning of disruption at council meetings. Bright said she can’t help but blame Peterson for the issues.
“That’s the result of Debbie Peterson in the way she does business,” she said. “Truly, if she’s not disrupting or sowing seeds of distrust, she’s just not doing her job.”
The council later voted to opt out of the project and revert water rates to what they were. However, the disruptors started to complain about things like a lack of transparency.
“I’ve always been trying to be as accessible as I can; my phone number’s on the website, email address is on the website, anyone can call me, email me,” she said.
Bright said Grover H2O, a group that Peterson helped found to oppose the city’s water rates increase, makes locals uneasy about sharing opposing views at council meetings.
“If someone gets up and says something that they don’t particularly agree with they’re snickering in the background,” she said. “Everybody has a right to their opinion and whether it agrees with yours or not, they have the right to speak it.”
If Peterson gets elected, Bright said she believes the city will move in a backward direction while either Dee or Robert would be a better choice to help lead the city forward.
“They’re both good people, honest, and I think they truly want what’s best for the city.”
Debbie Peterson
“I was asked to run time and time and time and time again over the last 11 months by people in the city,” she said. “I had the track record and the experience to go in and make some changes that people would like to see happen at City Hall.”
Running for a repeat of her 2012 victory, Peterson claimed that when she was mayor Grover Beach residents used less water, she instituted a gray water ordinance, and managed to help pass Measure K-14 to fix the streets. She resigned from her position in 2019, citing concerns over corruption at the city and in SLO County.
This time her focus is on sustainable solutions to capture rainwater for times of drought, reopening City Hall on Fridays, and video recording every public meeting.
“When I talked to the people in Grover Beach … and we said to people, ‘What are the three most important things to you?’ I was very surprised at the response,” she said. “First I expected the usual things in Grover Beach like streets and public safety; those are really the No. 1 thing, and then most recently people have been concerned about Pismo putting a wastewater treatment plant in South Grover but none of those things were on the top three.”
Instead, the people she spoke to said transparency from City Hall and the council, giving residents a voice, and the cost of government were the most important issues.
There’s a need for real change in the city, Peterson said, and as mayor her job is to represent the people and carry out their wishes. One of those wishes, she said, is to move public comment for items not on the agenda back to the beginning of meetings.
“What is the most important thing in government? It’s representing the people, and if you put the people last, that sends a message,” she said. “You can’t govern if you don’t know what the people want.”
Kassi Dee
Energetic and full of ideas, Dee is a fourthgeneration resident, local business owner, and the youngest person running for mayor.
“I know that you’re supposed to climb the ladder, but I feel like I’ve done my part in doing that,” she said.
Dee is currently on the Grover Beach Parks and Recreation Commission, she sits on the Five Cities Homeless Coalition board, is a Grover Beach Community Foundation board member; she’s sat on the SLO County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls, was an ambassador with the South County chambers, and was awarded Woman of the Year from 30th District Assemblymember Dawn Addis in 2021.
“I have three pillars and one of them is community engagement and making sure … that we can follow the rules but also be really active and be really engaging,” she said.
Dee’s other two pillars focus on upgrading public safety resources and improving economic development by supporting small businesses and applying for block grants that help property owners update buildings to allow new business to come in.
“The average response time from the Grover Beach Police Department is two minutes and 23 seconds, and I think that’s an incredible achievement,” she said. “In addition to that, they provide so many resources and programs for youth and for the community. … I would really love to see more resource training and opportunities for police and fire to encourage self-care, because that’s a hard job.”
Dee said if she became mayor, she would use community engagement to help close the divide in Grover Beach and bring community members closer to the council.
“There does need to be a decorum. There does need to be something that changes so that everybody can come to the council in a respectful way, and that’s just bottom line,” she said. “I think that people are kind of forced right now to come to the council meetings and talk about what they’re having issues with, which is great—that’s a forum to do that, but we can have other forums as well.”
Robert Robert
As a council member for four years, Robert said he’s on City Council because he loves his community, not because he’s trying to move up the political ladder.
“My desire is to help the community, for it to be a better place for all of us to live,” he said. “The council makes goals every two years; we review them every year, and we’re 97 percent through achieving our goals.”
Robert originally voted against raising water rates to help pay for the Central Coast Blue project, but he said the city is going to have to increase water rates eventually. He wants those increases to roll out slowly and the city to educate the community.
“It’s my desire not to hurt people more than they already are economically because it’s tough to make a living out here, especially in California,” he said. “As far as any other major policies, I think we’re doing pretty good. We’ve got the infrastructure we’re working on, we’ve got new buildings coming in, we’ve got a new hotel going on, so all these things that we’ve built for the infrastructure helps our local citizens.”
Better communication between the council and constituents, Robert said, would help bring more community involvement.
“We want people involved and to come and volunteer and do things that can help make the city a more pleasant place to live,” he said. “I think the Central Coast Blue thing and the people against the water increase is our biggest divide right now, but it’s working itself out.” ∆
Reach Staff Writer Samantha Herrera at sherrera@newtimesslo.com.
RUNNING FOR MAYOR Grover Beach’s former mayor, Debbie Peterson, left, is running against newcomer Kassi Dee, middle, and current City Councilmember Robert Robert, right.
Donor power
SLO County’s Democratic and Republican parties discuss the makings of their campaign contributions
With election season in full swing, candidates, committees, and parties across California and in San Luis Obispo County are focused on boosting their coffers with monetary contributions from their supporters.
Some more than others.
actually ends up with 10 percent of that amount. It’s an incentive to participate in a California Democratic Party program called the Victory Fund. SLO County is one of the nine counties that engages with the fund for the Assembly Democratic Caucus.
“The unions and the consultants, normally, special interest groups, don’t want to donate to the Republican Party because we hold our values every very, very closely,” Jordan said. “With the going trend with socialism and communism being introduced into our society, we fight that.”
According to the California Secretary of State website, the San Luis Obispo County Democratic Party raised $219,775 from Jan. 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024. The sum is almost 50 times higher than the contributions received by the Republican Party of SLO County, five times more than the amount garnered by the Santa Barbara County Democratic Central Committee, and more than three times the total raised by the Santa Barbara County Republican Party during the same time period.
“The Democratic Party in this county traditionally has a had a hard time competing with the money that comes in from various sources on the Republican side of the aisle, and much of it, in my experience, is what I call dark money,” SLO County Democratic Party Chair Tom Fulks said. “When I took over the party, … I told everybody before they voted for me, I said my No. 1 goal is to raise money so we can compete on an even footing.”
Fulks took over as chapter chair in April 2023 after years as a political commentator and as a campaign professional who, most notably, ran campaigns for both 2nd District
Supervisor Bruce Gibson and his predecessor Shirley Bianchi.
Over the past year and a half, he said he’s compelled leaders like Sen. John Laird (D-Santa Cruz), Sen. Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara), and Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) to donate to the chapter. Fulks also focused on local labor unions like the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local Union 403, whose political action committee provided $2,500. While many of the contributors are based in counties like Monterey and Los Angeles, Fulks said it’s the SLO County chapters of those unions that make donations.
Some funding heavy-hitters include the California Professional Firefighters political action committee and Professional Engineers in California Government who also contributed $35,000 each; California Teachers Association for Better Citizenship gave the chapter $40,000.
“For this cycle, it’s city council candidates, school board candidates, primarily, and special districts like the Port San Luis Harbor District,” Fulks said. “So basically, we’re helping them and the Democratic Party build a bench of local candidates for the future, and we’re also helping the people who we have now in office. So that’s what we do with the contributions.”
The Democratic Party chapter had $336,717 on hand, according to the Secretary of State website. Fulks told New Times that as a general rule of thumb, the party’s account
“Our first meeting of the cycle is this Monday [Sept. 16] with all nine central committees, and the Democratic Party puts these Assembly candidates up on the screen, and when we interview them, and each individual party decides whether or not they want to spend that money on these candidates,” Fulks said. “The districts that this fund targets are the gettable ones … either take from the Republicans or it’s an open seat, or where they’re defending a particularly vulnerable Assembly member whose district is close.”
One such politician up for Democratic protection is Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria. She represents the 27th District that covers portions of Fresno, Madera, and Merced counties. Fulks said he met her at a fundraiser event in Paso Robles.
“She’s on the bubble because she’s in Fresno and she’s a Democrat,” he said. “The Central Valley is way more evenly split between Republicans and Democrats than the coast.”
According to Fulks, the Democrats’ soaring campaign contributions force Republicans to spend their resources and compete for local seats.
“We can put our money down into those school district races that are under the gun from the MAGAs and the Moms for Liberty people,” he said.
Unlike other parties, Fulks added, the Democratic Party is transparent about where its money comes from.
Republican Party of SLO County Chair Randall Jordan disagreed.
“Republican Party of SLO County is very transparent. All of our donations are local. We don’t solicit,” he said. “We usually don’t get any donations out of the county. So, the state party doesn’t donate to the individual central committees.”
While the California Republican Party doesn’t extend support financially, it helps the 58 central committees, including SLO County’s, with data, block lists, calling lists, and training sessions. The central committees also help each other wherever they can.
“We just bought a whole lot of Trump signs from Yuba County,” Jordan said. “Yuba County put the money out and spent, I think, $10,000 and had, gosh, I think 1,000 or 1,500 signs printed and then offered them at cost to the different counties.”
Still, outside groups are wary of chipping in, according to him.
At the county level, he said the chapter raises money through donations and fundraisers like the annual Lincoln Reagan Trump dinner and monthly movie nights at the headquarters in Atascadero and Arroyo Grande. The chapter raked in a modest $4,499 between January and June this year, and had $15,891 in cash on hand. The largest donation came from Kenney Enney 4 PRJUSD Trustee 2023 at $3,440. Enney was elected to the Paso Robles Joint Union School District board in 2023.
“This is a very polarizing election,” Jordan said. “We have had sales of Trump paraphernalia. We sell Trump hats and Trump flags. We don’t sell them, I correct myself—we ask for donations for them.”
The money that the party does collect seldom sees the light of day when it comes to campaign finance help. Jordan said the chapter supports local candidates through emails, radio ads, fundraising setup, and slate card publication. But the candidates don’t receive monetary endorsement.
The chapter tries to garner support by working with coalitions, Jordan said. So far, the party has fostered relations with Moms for Liberty, the SLO County Cattleman’s Association, and Turning Point USA. The chapter plans to collaborate with these groups more robustly in the future.
“Most of our donations are under $100,” Jordan said. “We don’t have a big fundraising arm, but we have a very, very active and great group of grassroots conservatives working in this county.”
Reach Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal at brajagopal@newtimesslo.com.
to allow grading of slopes in excess of 30 percent; and, Sections 23.07.164 – Sensitive Resource Areas and 23.07.170 – Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area for remediation. The Project includes aboveground demolition of refinery structures to ground level, followed by site characterization and soil remediation. Belowground infrastructure would be removed where necessary to accommodate removal of contaminated soils. After demolition and remediation, hardscape would be replaced where removed and exposed soil areas would be revegetated. At project completion, features to remain include asphalt and concrete surfacing, perimeter fencing, electrical substation, water wells, truck scales, and two rail spurs, as well as monitoring wells and equipment associated with ongoing remediation under separate permits. Aboveground demolition would take approximately eight months, followed by soil testing and remediation activities, which are expected to be mostly completed within three years; however, some remediation may continue for up to 10 years. The majority of demolition and remediation debris would be hauled offsite by rail, supplemented by trucks. Once remediation requirements have been met, site activities would be limited to restoration monitoring and general maintenance of the property and facilities. Potential future uses of the SMR site are unknown and are not considered as part of this Project. The Project site is within the Industrial land use category, southwest of the Village of Callender Garrett and within the South County (Coastal) planning area.
Also to be considered is certification of a Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) (SCH 2023050020) prepared for this Project pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq., and CA Code of Regulations Section 15000 et seq., that identifies significant impacts related to Air Quality, Agricultural Resources, Biology, Cultural and Tribal Cultural Resources, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, Hydrology and Water Quality, Noise, Transportation, and Wildfire. Mitigation measures address these impacts and are included as project conditions of approval. A Statement of Overriding Considerations was determined necessary based on significant and unavoidable impacts associated with Land Use and Planning. The Final EIR can be accessed at this web browser location: https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/departments/planningbuilding/grid-items/community-engagement/active-planningprojects/phillips-66-santa-maria-refinery-demolition-an-(1) County File Number: C-DRC2022-00048 Supervisorial District: District 4 Assessor Parcel Number(s): 092-401-011, 092-401-005
Date Accepted: March 15, 2023
WHERE The hearing will be held in Katcho Achadjian Government Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1055 Monterey Street, Room #D170, 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 Susan Strachan, Project Manager or Cindy Chambers, Senior Planner, in the Department of Planning and Building by email p66refinery@co.slo.ca.us or by telephone at 805-781-5600. COASTAL APPEALABLE
If the County approves this project, that action may be eligible for appeal to the California Coastal Commission. An applicant or aggrieved party may appeal to the Coastal Commission only after all possible local appeals have been exhausted pursuant to Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance Section 23.01.043(b). Local appeals must be filed using the required Planning Department form as provided by Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance Section 23.01.042(a)(1). Daniela Chavez, Secretary Planning Commission September 19, October 17, 2024
COMPLETE TESTING & REPAIR
Engagement that sticks
After holding its inaugural “I Voted” sticker competition for local students, the county announced its first winners and an honorable mention, whose designs will be available for voters this November at the polls.
This year’s winners include Old Mission School third-grader Melanie Rathbun and San Luis Obispo High School senior Joanna Rawlings, with an honorable mention to Georgia Brown Elementary School fifthgrader Rudd Larson, who submitted the content’s first-ever design.
Public Information Specialist Erin Clausen from the SLO County ClerkRecorder’s Office said the county started the design program this year to promote civic engagement for younger residents and to make voting a more fun experience overall.
According to Clausen, her position was created within the past year and the design contest is one of her new projects.
“We are really passionate about getting in touch with all parts of our community and starting them young when it comes to voting,” Clausen said.
Among 20 entries, the winning designs were decided by the seven city mayors of SLO County. And according to Clausen, the competition was stiff.
One winner was selected from two age groups ranging from grades three through six and seven through 12.
Third-grader Rathbun’s winning design features an eagle and American flag sitting atop the Liberty Bell with the words, “Liberty, Freedom, and Justice.” Twelthgrader Rawlings’ design shows an eagle with the hills of San Luis Obispo. Honorable mention and fifth-grader Larson’s features a voter smiling and pointing to a casted vote.
“That smile makes us smile,” Clausen said.
And that’s what the county hopes to help voters feel about this upcoming election.
During the election cycle, Clausen said the county receives numerous messages from residents—some of which are negative and “not happy.”
“This project is fun and positive,” she said. “We wanted to create a reason for voters to smile and have fun this election.”
According to reporting by
Time, the concept of “I Voted” stickers started back in the 1980s, although its specific history is unknown. While political scientists don’t believe the sticker actually gets people to vote, it symbolizes an attempt to bring back the sense of community that’s associated with voting.
Clausen said she believes that the stickers designed by local students will further enhance SLO County’s sense of community.
“The stickers show a sense of pride,” she said. “And wearing the children’s art shows support and pride for our students.”
SLO County isn’t the only area with this idea. States like Kentucky and Michigan have held statewide competitions to feature students’ winning designs for voters to wear as well.
The students’ designs will be available for the public on Oct. 7 at the county and Atascadero voting offices and will also be available at polling locations throughout the county on Election Day, Nov. 5.
While mail-in ballots will still include the generic sticker, Clausen said mail-in voters shouldn’t worry about not getting a studentdesigned one. If mail-in voters have already mailed in their ballot, they can still stop by the county or Atascadero voting office to receive a sticker. Clausen reminded voters that mail-in ballots can be dropped off at the voting locations as well.
“This started out as a project where we put it out there to see what happens,” Clausen said. Now, the county intends to continue the program in the future.
“We will definitely do it again since everyone involved really enjoyed it, and we clearly have talented young artists in the community,” Clausen said.
Fast facts
• Revive Dive and the Central Coast Aquarium will be hosting a cleanup at the Morro Bay South T Pier on Saturday, Sept. 28. Bringing together scuba divers, environmental enthusiasts, and local community members, the event aims to remove debris from the bay waters to preserve the marine ecosystem and protect local wildlife. To register, visit revivedive.org.
• The El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) is hosting its 13th annual Long Walk Home fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 21, at the ECHO Atascadero campus to raise funds and awareness for the services ECHO provides to individuals and families experiencing homelessness on the Central Coast. Participants will walk through downtown Atascadero to represent the journey to finding hope. Funds raised going to support ECHO’s comprehensive services in Atascadero and Paso Robles, including food, shelter, case management, and job training programs. Register at echoshelter.org. ∆
Reach Staff Writer Libbey Hanson at lhanson@ newtimesslo.com.
DYNAMIC TRIO Two winning “I Voted” designs and one honorable mention from SLO County students were recently announced after the county’s first sticker design competition.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SLO COUNTY CLERK-RECORDER
Safeguarding the public
Morro Bay residents take protection into their own hands with Measure A-24
There are two forms of democracy that empower California: representative democracy and direct democracy. In last week’s column (“Power play,” Sept. 12), the Shredder didn’t mention direct democracy, which has been around for more than a century—since 1911. In fact, California is the leading state in use of citizen initiatives, which gives voters the ability to set the agenda for elected officials to follow. Initiatives also safeguard residents from elected officials being influenced by corporations and special interest groups. In a few columns, Shredder was fiercely critical of Morro Bay Measure A-24, which gives residents a crucial opportunity to vote on monumental land use decisions that could fundamentally change the community’s landscape. Because of complexities involved in securing permits and approvals from applicable state agencies, land use decisions can’t easily be reversed by voting in different elected officials, so it’s not as simple as reversing a decision to erect a new stoplight.
We desperately need projects like the Morro Bay energy storage facility
For some time now, California renewables’ share of the California market has stalled at around one quarter of annual consumption. Worse yet, due to ongoing expansion of renewable capacity (mostly solar), more and more energy is going to waste because the power could not be used at the time it was produced. Currently, the annual wasted energy likely exceeds 10 percent of the total wind and solar actually produced. Renewables in California desperately need energy storage to expand their share of the market
With this in mind, the proposed Morro Bay energy storage facility is critical to the expansion of renewables. If that wasted energy cannot be put to use, natural gas will fill in the gap … as usual. In summary, a vote against the Morro Bay energy storage project is a vote for fossil fuels.
Mark Henry San Luis Obispo
Shredder misunderstands Morro Bay’s Measure A-24
Shredder has gone bipolar. Last week’s column stated that elected officials “make decisions that will best serve their constituents” (“Power play,” Sept. 12). The SLO County Board of Supervisors and every city council in the county have endured tongue lashings from The Shredder for poor, biased, and underhanded votes. Scoldings have not been limited to elected officials, but rightly extended to county and city personnel as well. In fact, the second half of the column comments on the quality of Paso Robles and Oceano candidates. Why, all of a sudden, are Morro Bay officials so wonderful? In an incomplete understanding of
Land use decisions have decades-long consequences.
The city of Morro Bay has passed measures before that actually empowered our government. In 2006, residents voted to approve Measure Q, which was a halfcent district sales tax that helped generate revenue. In 2020, residents voted to approve Measure E-20, which increased the sales tax to help the city consistently provide 24/7 emergency services. Some of the most vocal residents supporting both those measures are suddenly decrying Measure A-24 for even existing as a measure. Trust John and Jane Q. Public to vote on some measures, but not others?
That’s weird.
Measure A-24 upholds land use policy that was thoroughly vetted and approved by residents, Morro Bay City Council and the California Coastal Commission, for several years. Residents supporting and opposing Measure A-24 were active participants in these formative discussions, which resulted
Measure A-24, The Shredder exaggerates the measure’s reach. Yes, the measure gives power to the voters, but not for stoplights or zoning. Rather, it affirms land use approved by a past City Council (Do you know the difference between land use and zoning, Shredder?). Plus, only in the case of a proposed change in land use, do voters get to vote. Only four parcels are subject to the measure, which are in the heart of Morro Bay’s visitor/tourist area. That seems reasonable to voters because a change in that location changes who we are, and that decision is too important to be left to three politicians.
The measure does not “strip elected officials of power to stop it,” referring to a proposed BESS (battery energy storage system). As noted in the sentence just prior, the California Coastal Commission has permit authority. Commission staff sent a letter to the city expressing grave concerns regarding BESS in that location.
Betty Winholtz Morro Bay
in Plan Morro Bay. Measure A-24 does not fundamentally change the way our local government operates nor does it undermine Plan Morro Bay. Yet opponents believe the passage of A-24 would somehow cripple the Morro Bay City Council from making land use decisions.
On Sept. 5, a fire occurred at a lithium ion battery storage facility in Escondido, California, which triggered evacuation orders and warnings. Around 500 businesses and 1,500 customers and employees were under a shelter in place order. The order affected businesses in a largely industrial part of the city. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted against a moratorium on battery energy storage system (BESS) projects and voted for additional regulations to enact better fire suppressant measures because it’s relying on the Escondido facility to provide energy security. Morro Bay doesn’t have energy security challenges. We have the Diablo Canyon Power Plant, which will remain online. The project was initially proposed when Diablo Canyon’s future was uncertain.
The proposed BESS would be located close to Morro Bay High School and surrounded
The War Department?
Military forces used to be called “The War Department.” But that sounded too vivid, so they brought in the re-branders. Now, the United States with its 800-plus military bases around the world and constant war-making, uses the term “Defense Department.”
Actual defense, however, (true security)
by residents living downwind of any toxic fire. With the project’s draft environmental impact report failing to address key environmental issues associated with thermal runaway fires resulting from lithium ion batteries, this project is simply not a good fit for Morro Bay.
Opponents of Measure A-24 refuse to take a position on the BESS. But a key figure of that movement, Marlys McPherson, was on the City Council when the city negotiated with Vistra to set up a roadmap for erecting BESS. These negotiations occurred during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when public participation at city meetings was effectively curtailed for public safety reasons. Residents are now playing catch-up. Why shouldn’t they have a say on the project and how land zoning would change for the project to be approved?
Vote yes on Measure A-24 to protect Morro Bay and safeguard its future from special interests. ∆
Aaron Ochs wrote to New Times from Morro Bay. Send a response for publication to letters@newtimesslo.com.
would depend on diplomacy. Not war. Not genocide, murder, domination, imperial invasion, stealing of resources, nor subjugation.
Do our own national level representatives (U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler and U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta) actually work for true security, or for warism? Dolores Howard Paso Robles
The great divide
Like a dutiful little progressive, when Vice President Kamala Harris was crowned heir apparent, I was so elated that Democrats had a chance to keep the White House that I coughed up a meagre donation. Now the text messages won’t quit!
“Team Harris-Walz: Shredder, did you see this email from Oprah Winfrey?” “Shredder, we’re at a point in this election where each of us must reconsider whether we’re doing enough.” “Shredder, it’s the HarrisWalz Merch Team here with an amazing opportunity to win an autographed yard sign!” “Shredder: If everyone reading this text donated $100 to Kamala Harris’ campaign for President, we would not only have a huge number of donations—but we’d have the resources we need to win.”
I’m getting five or six texts a day, to say nothing of the stream of emails and phone calls. I understand it takes money to win elections, but shouldn’t it be a battle of ideas rather than a battle of big bucks? Even at the local level, money makes the world go around, and traditionally, the Republicans have won that game, but not lately and certainly not in SLO County, where the SLO Democratic Party is sitting on $336,717 compared to the Republican Party of SLO County’s paltry $15,891.
Before all you fellow progressives cream your Underoos™ at the thought of monetarily bulldozing over the local MAGA conservatives and their election-denying, conspiracy theorizing, and scapegoating of
immigrants, consider that according to SLO County Democratic Party Chair Tom Fulks, only about 10 percent of the money raised will be spent on local races. Most of it will fund candidates in other state district races deemed “gettable”—a tight contest in which a Democrat might win over a Republican, an open seat, “or where they’re defending a particularly vulnerable Assembly member whose district is close,” Fulks added.
If it all seems a little weird, as if state Democrats are hiding money in SLO County, it is, but it’s all part of the Dems’ grand plan to win as many down ballot races throughout the state as possible. Are the Dems finally getting smarter? Schmaybe!
Republican Party of SLO County Chair Randall Jordan is probably quaking in his boots and the attached straps he no doubt pulled himself up by. Even if the Dems only spend 10 percent locally, that’s still more than double what the Repubs hold.
“The unions and the consultants, normally, special interest groups, don’t want to donate to the Republican Party, because we hold our values very, very, very closely,” Jordan said. “With the going trend with socialism and communism being introduced into our society, we fight that.”
Gotta watch out for that darn socialism,
with its public education, first responders, Medicare, Children’s Health Insurance Program, and Social Security. Nasty business, amirite? And don’t get me started with communism, which is obviously taking hold in capitalist-consumeristic America (insert exaggerated eyeroll). Do liberals and conservatives live in two separate realities? Jordan is waxing poetic about the “values” conservatives hold “very, very, very closely,” and acting like liberals are heathens, but which party cares about helping people in need and which one cares about embryos and controlling women’s bodies? You believe unions don’t want to donate to you because of your “values?” You’re probably right. Your “values” suck.
I don’t know about you, but I miss the days when the Republican party wasn’t led by an unhinged malignant narcissist, 34time convicted felon, and sexual abuser who claims Black immigrants are eating their neighbors’ pets and who cares more about rally crowd sizes than the U.S. Constitution. The fact that the previous sentence can even be written proves just how crazy our world has become.
Speaking of down ballot races and craziness, what’s up with the Grover Beach City Council and its 10 months of sustained acrimony? The race for mayor is heating up, and it looks to be more of the same nastiness as former Mayor Debbie Peterson battles to get her seat back. Current Mayor Karen Bright isn’t even running again, and
I don’t blame her. Grover Beach residents are now so deeply divided and distrustful of their “opponents” (You know you guys are neighbors, right?) that every council meeting is a lesson in incivility.
“That’s the result of Debbie Peterson in the way she does business,” Bright told New Times. “Truly, if she’s not disrupting or sowing seeds of distrust, she’s just not doing her job.”
Things went sideways for Bright when Grover Beach joined Arroyo Grande and Pismo Beach in the Central Coast Blue regional recycled water project and voted to raise Grover’s water rates to pay for it. That inspired Peterson to form Grover H2O, which opposed the rate hike, tried to recall Bright, and eventually led to Grover pulling out of the project. According to Bright, Grover H2O members come to council meetings and intimidate those who disagree with them.
“It makes people who are in the audience uncomfortable. If someone gets up and says something that they don’t particularly agree with, they’re snickering in the background,” Bright said. “Everybody has a right to their opinion, and whether it agrees with yours or not, they have the right to speak it.”
I have a feeling the snickering is just beginning. ∆
The Shredder is no laughing matter. Send it a joke anyway at shredder@newtimesslo.com.
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What happens when Adventist Health comes to town?
Patients and workers at Sierra Vista and Twin Cities hospitals get the short end of the stick.
Adventist’s Corporate Playbook:
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Hot Dates
ARTS
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
AUTUMN SKIES This themed exhibit highlights a collection of scenic photographs by seven featured artists. Through Sept. 30 Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY
Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. 805-394-5560. coastalwineandpaint. com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.
FIRST ANNUAL RED BARN RUMBLE ART SHOW (LIVE MUSIC, MOTORCYCLE SHOW, AND MORE) Enjoy local art, a variety of classic motorcycles, live music, and more. Sept. 28 , 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Red Barn at Los Osos Community Park, 2180 Palisades Ave., Los Osos.
GETTING HIGH ON NATURE:
FEATURING KARL DEMPWOLF The Cambria Center for the Arts Gallery presents “Getting High on Nature,” featuring Karl Dempwolf. Opening night includes a reception with music by Tom Bethke, treats, and more.
Tuesdays-Sundays, 12-4 p.m. through Oct. 27 805-927-8190. cambriaarts.org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
BEGINNING WHEEL THROWING:
SIX-WEEK CLASS A beginner-level class designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of pottery on the wheel. The price includes all clay,
glazes, and firing services. Tuesdays, 1-3 p.m. through Oct. 1 $288. 805-2030335. thepotteryatascadero.com/ wheelclasses. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.
CENTRAL COAST WOODCARVERS
44TH ANNUAL SHOW A diverse range of carvers creates artistic expressions, including wildlife, toys, jewelry, pens, and flutes made from various types of wood from around the world. Sept. 21 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sept. 22 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $2 donation; children under 12 get in for free. 805-748-4143. Cambria Veterans Memorial Hall, 1000 Main St., Cambria. DEPRISE BRESCIA ART GALLERY: OPEN DAILY Features a large selection of encaustic art, sculpted paintings, art installations, acrylic palette knife paintings, digital art, glass, jewelry, stones, fossils, and a butterfly sculpture garden. ongoing DepriseBrescia.com. Deprise Brescia Art Gallery, 829 10th St., Paso Robles, 310-621-7543.
LIVE FIGURE DRAWING Uninstructed Live Figure Drawing sessions hosted on the third Thursday of each month. Open to all artists ages 18 and older. Please bring your own art supplies. We will have chairs, tables, and a nude model to sketch. Note: no class in December. Third Thursday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $20. 805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org/ classes-workshops/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.
MOLD MAKING BASICS WORKSHOP
(THREE DAYS) Learn to design and create plaster molds for slip casting. In this accelerated class, you will learn the basics on how to design a mold to successfully cast any shape you want. Saturdays, 1-4 p.m. through Sept. 28 $360. 805-203-0335. thepotteryatascadero. com/potteryworkshops. The Pottery,
5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.
SENSORIO GIVES BACK Enjoy the venue’s stunning light exhibits while helping foster creativity and supporting agricultural education. This event supports the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art and the Paso Robles High School FFA, honoring the legacy of Matt Masia. Come celebrate the future of our community. Sept. 22 6:30-9:30 p.m. $30, $45, or $110 (child discounts). 805226-4287. sensoriopaso.com/sensoriocelebrations. Sensorio, 4380 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles.
SLOFUNNY COMEDY SHOW For ages 18 and up. Lineups are subject to change, but always include five headliners. Sept. 27, 7 p.m. my805tix.com/. JUSTIN Downtown Tasting Room, 811 12th St., Paso Robles, 805-238-6932.
STUDIOS ON THE PARK: CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS Check site for a variety of classes and workshops offered. ongoing studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles, 805-238-9800.
TAKE A SPIN: TWO-HOUR WHEEL
CLASS These two hour blocks provide an opportunity to learn the basics of wheel throwing. Instructors will center your clay for you, so you will have the opportunity to make two items. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon $72. 805-203-0335. thepotteryatascadero. com/wheelclasses. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ADVENTURES IN MIXED MEDIA! WITH SPENCER COLLINS Students will learn about different mediums each week as well as learn about an artist from history. Take one class of the entire 10-week
series for a discounted price. Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. through Nov. 7 $25 for one class; 10 classes for $180. 559-250-3081. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
THE ARTIST’S WAY: UNBLOCKING CREATIVITY 12 week program (13 meetings) for creatives and anyone who is seeking to “unblock” their creativity, following Julia Cameron’s famous workbook “The Artist’s Way.” Weekly group discussions and check-ins. Opportunities to share creativity and create community. Email for more info. Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m. through Nov. 26 $195. cuesta.edu. Cuesta College Community Programs, Building 4100 Cuesta College Road, San luis obispo, 805-540-8282.
CRAFTING MAGICAL REALMS: FANTASY AUTHOR PANEL Meet New York Times bestselling author Kalyn Josephson, bestselling fantasy author Jenna Elizabeth Johnson, and middlegrade series fantasy author Debbie Noble Black. Learn more about their books and get an insider’s view of their processes in crafting magical realms. Hosted by Central Coast Writers’ Conference. Sept. 28 2-4 p.m. Free. 805-781-5991. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP: LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in
VITAL COUNTDOWN
Blood donors who participate in Vitalant’s upcoming blood drives at Nipomo’s Grocery Outlet (Sept. 20, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), the Atascadero Elks Lodge (Sept. 20, from 1 to 6 p.m.), the Paso Robles Masonic Lodge (Sept. 27, from 2 to 6 p.m.), and other locations through Oct. 5 will be rewarded with a free Halloween-themed T-shirt. The shirts can be redeemed by registering in advance for a blood drive through the Vitalant app. Visit vitalant.org for more info.
—Caleb Wiseblood
creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
HARVEST COLORS: PAINT YOUR AUTUMN BASKET WITH DREW DAVIS Visit site to register in advance for this upcoming fall workshop. Sept. 21 , 1-3 p.m. my805tix.com/. Drew Davis Fine Art, 393 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.
IMPROV COMEDY SHOW Hosted by Central Coast Comedy Theater. Sept. 21 6 p.m. my805tix.com/. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
IMPROV COMEDY SHOWS AT THE HUB The show contents will be rotated among the group’s ensemble, house, and musical improv team casts, as well as stand-up and student shows. Fourth Friday of every month, 6 p.m. my805tix. com/. The Hub, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. 702-335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.
LEARN MODERN SQUARE DANCING
Sign up now for this new square dance class. Singles and couples welcome. Two hours of square dancing equals about three miles of walking. Learn a new skill now while having fun and meeting new friends. Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. through Nov. 21 $75 (one time fee per person for all 12 classes). 805-781-7300. squaredancecentralcoast.com/classes. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad 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. 805-4418257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista
Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.
PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com). Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo. PUBLIC DRAWING DAY WITH ART DIRECTOR CYNTHIA HALLEY Join Entertainment Visual Development Artist, Art Director, and SLO native Cynthia Halley for a beautiful day out of drawing and camaraderie. Halley is excited to connect fellow artists and students. Free, uninstructed, and all levels welcome. Just bring your favorite sketchbook or palette and enjoy. Sept. 29, 1-5 p.m. Free. DrawingLA.com. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age. Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
SATURDAY SQUISHMALLOW FUN WITH MISS KESHET Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon painting the cutest and cuddliest Squishmallow gang on a canvas with acrylic paints. Beginners are welcome and no experience is necessary. Sept. 21 , 1-2:30 p.m. $25. 805610-1821. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey 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, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
photos by Vivian Krug
photos by Vivian Krug
photo by Glenn Fuss
photos by Vivian Krug
photo by Glenn Fuss
WHOSE WATERS? This Gray Wing exhibition will build upon the photojournalistic work of Southern California artist Gabriella Angotti-Jones whose I Just Wanna Surf book highlights Black female and non-binary surfers and other unseen or outright ignored communities that ride the waves off the Golden State. Through Oct. 20, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ surf-show/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
YOUTH POTTERY CLASS Teens love this class. Learn handbuilding techniques and throwing on the potter’s wheel. Held every Friday after school. Fridays, 3:30-5 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
SWAN LAKE See the iconic Dance of the Little Swans, count the 32 fouettés performed by the Odile, and immerse yourself in magical Tchaikovsky’s music. The production will feature richly detailed, hand-painted sets and more than 150 radiant costumes that bring fresh representation to this timeless classic. Sept. 26 7-10 p.m. $39.50-$91.25. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ wbc-swan-lake/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover. org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
IMPROV 101 This may be “the funnest class you ever take.” Improvisation is acting and reacting in the moment. Improv boosts creativity, self-confidence, and communication skills while reducing stress and social anxiety. This course will provide you with the fundamentals in a safe and supportive environment. Sundays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through Oct. 27 $80. 805-556-8495. improvforgood. fun/. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande.
WEREWOLF OF ARROYO GRANDE Enjoy the Melodrama’s Halloween-spirited show. Through Nov. 9 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
SLOPOKE: ART OF THE AMERICAN WEST With 30-35 Juried artists; paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry depicting western culture and history. Featured Artist: Ezra Tucker, renowned wildlife artist. Features memorial exhibit and sale of Fred Oldfield’s western paintings. Friday Eve: Bluegrass Band and Awards Ceremony. Sept. 27 5:307:30 p.m., Sept. 28 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sept. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $25 (refunded against purchase of painting/sculpture). 805-570-8088. the-slopoke.com. Flag is Up Farms, 901 E. Highway 246, Solvang.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
2024 CALIFORNIA COAST CLASSIC BIKE TOUR AND ARTHRITIS
CHALLENGE EXPERIENCE An eight-day, fully supported 525-mile ride that raises awareness and support for the nearly 60 million Americans living with arthritis. Sept. 21-28 213-634-3772. events. arthritis.org. Highway 1, Various locations, Morro Bay.
CENTRAL COAST UECHI-RYU KARATEDO Uechi-Ryu Karate-do is a traditional form of karate originating from Okinawa, Japan. Focus is on fitness, flexibility, and self-defense with emphasis on self -growth, humility, and respect. Open to ages 13 to adult. Beginners and experienced welcome. Instructor with 50 years experience. For info, call
SCENIC SURROUNDINGS
The 14th annual SLOPOKE Art of the West Exhibition and Sale will run at Flag Is Up Farms in Solvang from Friday, Sept. 27, to Sunday, Sept. 29. The event showcases multiple artists whose works serve “as a testament to the enduring beauty and significance of Western art,” according to press materials. To find out more about the exhibit and its participating artists, visit the-slopoke.com.
805-215-8806. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278, morro-bay.ca.us.
FALL EQUINOX FULL MOON CEREMONY
Come align yourself with the cosmos above for an evening ritual and intention that will bring balance to your life with guide Dawn Feuerberg. Sept. 19, 6:308:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Fog’s End Barn, 2735 Main St., Cambria.
SHAKTI: EMBODYING GODDESS
DURGA Hosted by Aurora Adventures. Sept. 26 5:30-7:15 p.m. my805tix.com/. 9th Limb Yoga, 845 Napa Ave., Morro Bay, 415-852-1787.
SHORT FILM PREMIERE: SEA OTTER
AWARENESS WEEK Celebrate Sea Otter Awareness Week by attending the premiere screening of Every Otter Counts This short film chronicles the incredible initiative of the organization Sea Otter Savvy as they work for coexistence with the SLO Coast’s sea otter neighbors. A Q-and-A follows screening. Sept. 27
3-4 p.m. Free admission to the museum during this event. Morro Bay Museum of Natural History, 20 State Park Rd., Morro Bay, 805-772-2694.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
BALANCE FLOW Suitable for all levels. This class is meant to benefit the mindbody connection while emphasizing safe and effective alignment as well as breath awareness and relaxation. Please call to register in advance. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $16-$22; $50 membership. 805-434-9605. ttrtennis.com/fitness/ yoga/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.
AN EVENING IN MARGARITA Check out downtown Santa Margarita during this event to stroll El Camino Real, visit shops and businesses, greet your neighbors, and more. A benefit for the Friends of the Library. There will be snacks and live music, and wine for a donation. There’ll be something for everyone.
Sept. 20 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. 805438-5622. Downtown Santa Margarita, 22324 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita, santamargaritabeautiful.com.
GARDEN PARTY EVENING
SCHOLARSHIP BENEFIT Hosted by South Bay Women’s Network (SBWN).
Sept. 21 , 5:30-7:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Sage Ecological Landscapes, 1301 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos.
HAMBLY LAVENDER FARM GUIDED
EXPERIENCE This one-hour walk about the farm immerses you in the processes of growing, harvesting, and drying this fragrant herb. Saturdays, Sundays, 10 a.m. my805tix.com. Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel.
MABON: A CELEBRATION OF AUTUMN
EQUINOX Celebrate Autumn Equinox in Wiccan tradition. A trance drum journey will lead you to connect with a deep sense of appreciation and delight. Sing and pray for continued blessings, while reflecting on the abundance in our lives and the harvest of this season. Sept. 20 6-7:30 p.m. $45. 805-464-2175. greenomenapothecary.com. The Green Omen Apothecary and Tea Lounge, 6280 Palma Ave., Atascadero.
VINYASA YOGA FLOW The class prioritizes increasing mental acuity and improving body and muscle flexibility. A restorative and gentle yoga focusing on breathing and targeting specific areas of the body. Please call to register in advance. Sundays, 12-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $16-$22; $50 membership. 805-434-9605. ttrtennis. com/yoga. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton. YANG STYLE TAI CHI The course’s instructor won many Tai Chi and other internal martial arts tournaments. Both experienced martial artists and new learners are welcome to the class. Mondays, Wednesdays, 5-6 p.m. $62. 805-470-3360. Colony Park Community Center, 5599 Traffic Way, Atascadero.
SAN LUIS OBISPO BEAUTIFUL MINDS AWARENESS WALK Join NAMI SLO County to raise awareness about mental health and local resources in support of Suicide Awareness Month. Booths, speakers, raffle prizes, and more. T-shirts for the first 100 registrants and possibly beyond (while supplies last). Sept. 28 9 a.m.-noon $15. namislo.org. Laguna Middle School, 11050 Los Osos Valley Rd., San Luis Obispo, 805-596-4055. CELEBRATE 100 YEARS WITH THE MONDAY CLUB DURING DOORS OPEN CALIFORNIA This year marks a very special Doors Open California, as we recognize the Centennial Anniversary of The Monday Club. Join for this annual tour highlighting some of the most remarkable architecture throughout California, including The Monday Club. Sept. 28 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sept. 29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. themondayclubslo.org. The Monday Club, 1815 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-541-0594.
CENTRAL COAST CONJURERS (SLO COUNTY MAGIC CLUB) Monthly meeting of magicians of all levels. Please call or email for more info. Meet like-minded folks with an interest in magic, from close-up to stage performances. Last Wednesday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. 805-440-0116. IHOP, 212 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo. CREEKS TO COAST CLEANUP 2024 Register to participate in one of the SLO
—C.W.
COURTESY IMAGE BY JOELLA OLDFIELD
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 The Stockyard, Orcutt
Improv Comedy Show: Musical Improv
TalentDreams Central Coast Jamboree
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Camp Arroyo Grande
SBWN Garden Party Evening Scholarship Benefit
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Sage Ecological Landscapes, Los
Osos
County locations for ECOSLO’s annual Creeks to Coast Cleanup. Let’s all work together to keep our waterways and parks clean and protect the beautiful natural environment of SLO County. Sign up for a SLO County location today. Sept. 21 , 9 a.m.-noon Free. 805-710-8017. ecoslo.org. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.
DALLY ALL DAY AT THE DALLIDET Dally
All Day at the Dallidet Garden marks the fall equinox with a day of self care and delicious food from the Prancing Chef. Sept. 22 , 8 a.m.-noon $100. 805- 3164380. my805tix.com/. Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, 1185 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.
ELEVATE YOUR BUSINESS EXIT STRATEGY: A COMPREHENSIVE 50-POINT ACTION PLAN WORKSHOP FOR BUSINESS OWNERS Business owners looking to maximize their company’s value in preparation for sale won’t want to miss this upcoming workshop, led by seasoned business expert Gary Bayus. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your exit strategy—sign up today. Sept. 19 6-8 p.m. $50. 805-773-5447. cuesta.edu/ communityprograms/index.html. Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
FULL NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE
Features a great selection of furniture, household items, clothing, toys, tools, jewelry and much more. Multiple locations on San Luis Drive and neighboring streets. Sept. 28, 8 a.m.-noon 805-539-9374. San Luis Drive Neighborhood, San Luis Drive, San Luis Obispo.
LIFESAVERS GET HALLOWEEN READY BY DONATING BLOOD Blood donors who participate in Vitalant’s upcoming blood drives through Oct. 5 will be rewarded with a free Halloween-themed T-shirt. The shirts can be redeemed by registering in advance for a blood drive through the Vitalant app. Through Oct. 5 Vitalant, 4119 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
MOONLIGHT HOURS AT THE SLO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Come to the San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum for free every third Thursday of the month. Third Thursday of every month, 5-7 p.m. Free admission. 805-545-5874. slocm. org/moonlight-hours. San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum, 1010 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
PLAY GROVE, AN OUTDOOR PRESCHOOL PROGRAM A nature-based and place-based enrichment program. This means we use the environment as our guide as we play, grow, create art, garden, and learn together. Play Grove will allow young children to access this experience alongside enthusiastic playworkers. Through June 7, 2025, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Options: 2 day, 3 day, or 5 day. 805-242-6301. onecoolearth.org/ play-grove.html. Jewish Community Center, 875 Laureate Lane, San Luis Obispo.
PROJECT 2025 TOWN HALL NAACP SLO County presents Project 2025 Town Hall: “Unraveling the Dangers”. An informative discussion on education, immigration, racial justice and women’s health. For more information contact naacpslocty@ gmail.com. Sept. 24 7-8:30 p.m. Free admission. 805-619-5354. naacpslocty. org. Unitarian Universalists Church, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo.
A RED/BLUE DISCUSSION WITH SLO BRAVER ANGELS ALLIANCE
“What would it take for you to believe in American elections again? Across the country everyday, people ask this question.” With a major election in two months, take this opportunity talk about it. SLO Braver Angels Alliance is offering a two-hour Zoom to safely do that. Contact host for Zoom link or find the program’s Eventbrite page. Sept. 22 4-6 p.m. Free. 805-470-9009. eventbrite.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SEA OTTER TRIVIA NIGHT Kick off Sea Otter Awareness Week by showing off your sea otter knowledge. It’s an all sea otter trivia event with the fluffiest questions, sea otter swag, menu specials, and delicious local brews. A portion of
the proceeds support the Sea Otter Savvy organization. Sept. 19 6-8 p.m. $5 for each trivia player. seaottersavvy.org. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-2529.
TOASTMASTERS OPEN HOUSE Looking
to level up your public speaking skills while taming that inner dread and gaining confidence? Join this open house event to meet members, observe a meeting, and learn how public speaking can be exciting rather than scary.
Caltrans Midway Building, 2885 South Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.
TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.
TRICKZONE (PARKOUR AND TUMBLING) CLINIC Come flip with flair in a safe, nurturing environment at the TrickZone Clinic. Plus, Parkour and Tumbling training are great for safer backyard practice. For ages 5-17; all levels welcome. Sept. 21 , 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; plus $10 per additional sibling. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo. com/saturday-event-clinics. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
AUTOMOTIVE CLASSIC AT TRILOGY
MONARCH DUNES This invitational automotive show will showcase more than 200 vintage and classic cars, worth more than $20 million, parked in and around the Monarch Club. Spectators can enjoy live music on three stages, food, wine, beer, and arts and retail vendors. A charity fundraiser with net proceeds benefiting the Nipomo Food Basket Building Fund. Sept. 22 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free to spectators. 805-284-0756. autoclassicattrilogy.com. The Monarch Club at Trilogy Monarch Dunes, 1645 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo.
BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. ongoing Starts at $70. 805835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.
BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:156:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS
CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. 970-710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.
COMMUNITY WORKSHOP: ARROYO GRANDE ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION
PLAN The last community workshop for the Arroyo Grande Active Transportation Plan. Your feedback will be used by the City to improve Arroyo Grande’s bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. All ages are welcome and light refreshments and Spanish interpretation will be provided. Sept. 26 6-7:30 p.m. arroyo-grandeatp-ktuagis.hub.arcgis.com/#ue. Arroyo Grande Council Chamber, 215 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande, 805-473-5400.
CREATIVE MOVEMENT A dance-filled morning with Charlotte Ritter who has more than 50 years of expertise. Creative Movement is a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to connect through movement and imagination. Sept. 21 11 a.m.-noon Free for event. 805-4811421. Exploration Discovery Center, 867 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.
Send event information to
or submit online.
EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA
The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its meeting on the third Saturday of each month. For more information, follow on Facebook at Bishop’s Peak EGA or visit the EGA website. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 16 Free. egausa.com. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach, 805-773-4832.
I CARE INTERNATIONAL BENEFIT I Care’s goal is to help others improve their quality of life by providing the gift of better vision and health. This benefit will raise funds to help cover expenses associated with the group’s 2025 clinic to Guatemala. Sept. 28 5:30-9 p.m. $75. 805-674-1140. Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, avilabayclub.com.
LATINO OUTDOORS CENTRAL COAST CELEBRATES LATINO CONSERVATION WEEK Latino Outdoors Central Coast is celebrating Latino Conservation Week in partnership with local environmental organizations. Come meet representatives from these organizations to learn more about local conservation efforts during this family-friendly event. Sept. 21 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-748-6404. latinooutdoors.org. Nipomo Regional Park, 255 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo. LATINO OUTDOORS CENTRAL COAST: BEGINNING BILINGUAL BIRD WALK Join bilingual leaders from Latino Outdoors Central Coast and the Morro Coast Audubon Society for a casual morning walk to learn about birds and the Oso Flaco Lake Natural Area. All ages welcome. Binoculars provided. Register today on Eventbrite. Sept. 21 , 9-11 a.m. Free. 805-748-6404. latinooutdoors.org. Oso Flaco Lake Natural Area, Oso Flaco Lake Rd., Nipomo.
LITTLE RANGER PROGRAM: LAGOON ADVENTURE Join Interpreter Sarah on a guided walk around the Lagoon to learn about the animals and plants that live in this unique ecosystem. Walk intended for children ages 2-7. RSVP by phone. Sept. 22 10-11 a.m. Free. 805-474-2664. parks. ca.gov. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.
MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS
A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
TALENTDREAMS CENTRAL COAST
JAMBOREE Features a live band, food, beer, wine, a wine auction, and a silent auction. Sept. 21 5:30 p.m. my805tix. com. Camp Arroyo Grande, 250 Wesley St., Arroyo Grande, 805-249-9517. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Looking for a fun and educational opportunity this summer? Join the aquarium’s Volunteer Team. No marine science experience is necessary. There are lots of ways to get involved. Check out website for more details. Tuesdays. through Sept. 30 centralcoastaquarium.org. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach, 805-595-7280.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 20
WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS
Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. 805-4816399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
SOLVANG DANISH DAYS Entertainment options include three parades, plus folk dancers and Danish musicians performing in locations scattered around downtown Solvang. Enjoy Danish pastries, Danish-style beer, and more. Sept. 20-22 solvangdanishdays.org. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
FOOD & DRINK
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
DINNER AND LIBATIONS FOR THE STATION An annual wine and dinner fundraiser to benefit the restoration work of the Piedras Blancas Light Station. Wine by Harmony Cellars; dinner by Wandering Eats; live music by Jill Knight; and a silent auction. Buy tickets and learn more at piedrasblancas.org/events. Sept. 28 4-6:30 p.m. $115. 805-927-1625. piedrasblancas.org/dinner-and-libationsfor-the-station.html. Piedras Blancas Light Station, 15950 Cabrillo Highway, San Simeon.
MORRO BAY MAIN STREET FARMERS
MARKET Get fresh and veggies, fruit, baked goods, sweets, and handmade artisan crafts. Come have some fun with your local farmers and artisans and enjoy delicious eats while enjoying the fresh breeze of Morro Bay. Saturdays, 2:30-5:30 p.m. Varies. 805-824-7383. morrobayfarmersmarket.com. Morro Bay
Main Street Farmers Market, Main Street and Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
CLUB CAR BAR TRIVIA WITH DR. RICKY
Teams of 1 to 6 people welcome. Visit site for more info. Wednesdays, 7-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main Street, Templeton, 805-400-4542.
DINE IN THE VINES WINEMAKER
DINNER Join the annual Dine in the Vines Winemaker Dinner and dine between the rows while gazing at the breathtaking vineyard all around you. Sept. 21 $220. 805-434-5607. onxwines.com/events/ dine-in-the-vines/. ONX Estate Vineyard, 1200 Paseo Excelsus, Templeton.
OUT AND SAVVY LESBIANS BRUNCH
(AGES 50 AND OVER) The very first quarterly lesbian brunch where you can connect with intelligent, like-minded women and enjoy delicious food, fun, and great conversation in a beautiful relaxing atmosphere. Bring your lesbian friends, partner, wife, or come solo–you won’t leave without making new friends. Sept. 22 10 a.m.-noon $50. Mirazur Restaurant, 1365 2nd St., Los Osos, 805-439-0058, mirazurbaywoodpark.com.
PARTNER POUR: SHOWCASING EBERLE WINERY AT SENSORIO Experience an enchanting evening that combines the magic of Sensorio and exquisite wines from Eberle Winery. Complimentary tastings offered onsite. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a memorable night out, this evening promises to delight your senses with lights and libations. Sept. 19, 6:30-9:30 p.m. $30, $45, or $110 (child discounts). 805-226-4287. sensoriopaso.com/ sensorio-celebrations. Sensorio, 4380 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles.
PASO ROBLES ELKS LODGE PAINT AND SIP WITH ARTSOCIAL 805 Join ArtSocial 805 for a fun night of painting, sipping, and nibbling. Tickets are $55 and include one drink ticket, small bites, painting supplies, and instruction. Sept. 19 6:308:30 p.m. $55. 805-400-9107. artsocial805. com. Paso Robles Elks Lodge, 1420 Park St., Paso Robles.
SUMMERWOOD PAINT AND SIP WITH ARTSOCIAL 805 ArtSocial 805 is back at Summerwood Winery for a fall paint and sip workshop. All your supplies are included to create your masterpiece on canvas plus a glass of delicious wine. Sept. 21 1-3 p.m. $55. 805-400-9107. artsocial805.com. SummerWood Winery & Inn, 2175 Arbor Road, Paso Robles.
TACO TUESDAYS La Parilla Taqueria will be in the courtyard serving up their delicious tacos and tostadas. Menu typically includes barbacoa, chicken, and pastor tacos, as well as shrimp ceviche tostadas. Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. 805-4606042. ancientowlbeergarden.com.
Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.
TASTE OF DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES
With multiple restaurants and tasting rooms featured in the downtown area (12th and Park Street). Sept. 21 11 a.m.-4 p.m. my805tix.com. Paso Robles Downtown City Park, 1200 Park Street, Paso Robles, 805-237-3888.
best parts of your childhood at the Boozy Book Fair. This is a one-of-a-kind book fair for adults. Enjoy a nostalgic fusion of books, funky erasers, and scented stickers with the finest brews from Humdinger’s Brewing (SLO Taproom). Sept. 28 5-8 p.m. Free. 805-668-6300. monarchbooks805.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo.
DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET
Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.
POPCORN AND PINOT DATE NIGHT
Enjoy a screening of Under the Tuscan Sun Sept. 20, 7-9 p.m. my805tix.com/. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., San Luis Obispo, 805-595-7302.
SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
SUNSET WINE/RAIL EXCURSION:
SANTA BARBARA These fully-hosted, docent-led excursions will depart from the SLO Railroad Museum at 11 a.m. taking a motor coach to the Santa Barbara Wine Collective. Sept. 21 my805tix.com. San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, 1940 Santa Barbara Ave., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-1894.
TRIVIA NIGHT Reservations are no longer required to play. Reservations are now for teams who want to guarantee a table to play. Tables available first come, first serve. Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. my805tix.com. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
GREEK BARBECUE FUNDRAISER AT ROCK AND ROLL DINER Join us for a special Greek barbecue fundraiser, benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of South SLO County. Indulge in Greek barbecue, enjoy live music from the Wavebreakers, and 50 percent of your meal is going to support local youth programs. Sept. 21 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 805-481-7339. bgcslo.org/ events. Rock and Roll Diner, 1300 Railroad St., Oceano.
MUSIC
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY BEACHSIDE LIVE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Enjoy free live music by the beach in Cayucos. Showtimes are Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. Also featuring live music on holiday weekends, and on select Fridays and Saturdays in the summer. Check out @ schoonerscayucos on Instagram for band updates. Sundays, 1-8 p.m. Free. 805995-3883. schoonerscayucos.com/live. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos.
BIG SIRS OF SWING RETURN Presented by Cambria Concerts Unplugged. Sept. 21 , 2:30-4:45 p.m. my805tix.com/. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2700 Eton Road, Cambria.
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.
FREE CONCERT FEATURING LOUIE AND TALIA ORTEGA AND FRIENDS
Bring your chair and your love of great music and community. Any donations go to the performing artists. To allow max attendance, please do not park on Estero Avenue between Olive and Anchor or block driveways. Sept. 22 2-4 p.m. Free. 805-771-9408. Concerts on Estero Morro Bay, 482 Estero Ave., Morro Bay.
live blend of their of original music and fun cover tunes while you enjoy the wonderful wines at Bianchi. Sept. 29 12-3 p.m. Free show. Bianchi Winery and Tasting Room, 3380 Branch Road, Paso Robles, 805-226-9922, bianchiwine.com.
GRATEFUL ROOTS SUMMER TOUR A tribute tour to the Grateful Dead. Sept. 20, 6 p.m. my805tix.com. Kilokilo Brewing Company, 3340 Ramada Drive, Suite C, Paso Robles.
KARAOKE NIGHT Food and drink available for purchase. Last Saturday of every month, 8 p.m. Free admission. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main Street, Templeton, 805-400-4542. Last Saturday of every month, 8 p.m. my805tix. com. Templeton Mercantile Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.
LIVE MUSIC IN THE BOWL: ROSEWOOD & HONEY Rosewood & Honey performs acoustic unique arrangements of a wide variety of music with three-part vocal harmonies, backed up by guitar, acoustic bass, and percussion. Admission is free, with food and beverage for purchase. Bring your blanket or chair. Reservations required.
Sept. 28, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. 805-2260600. kindredoakfarm.com. Kindred Oak Farm, 1250 Paint Horse Plaza, Paso Robles. SINGING HANDS CHILDREN’S CHOIR A unique performing arts group that performs across the state for deaf festivals, service organizations, churches, fairs, and other outlets. New members always welcome. Registration open weekly. Mondays, 5-6:30 p.m. $45 tuition per month. singinghandschildrenschoir.com/. Singing Hands Children’s Choir and Performing Arts, 1413 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.
TWILIGHT CONCERTS Come and stay awhile after hours and listen to live music by your favorite local bands. Genres range from country music to reggae; bring the whole family for a rockin’ good time. Sundays, 5-8 p.m. through Oct. 27 $5. 805-239-8904. midnightcellars.com. Midnight Cellars, 2925 Anderson Road, Paso Robles.
UP IN THE AIR AT NIGHT IN SANT MARGARITA Up in the Air will play a semi-acoustic show featuring their MUSIC continued page 21
SWINGIN’ BY THE SEA The Chapman Estate Foundation is hosting their ninth annual Swingin’ By the Sea fundraiser. With 12 local wineries and nine restaurants serving as well as live music and silent and live auctions. Sept. 21 1:30-5 p.m. $150. 805-234-7087. chapmanestatefoundation.org/. Chapman Estate, Private residence, Shell Beach.
Hot Dates SEPTEMBER 19 - SEPTEMBER 29, 2024 DOWN BY
INTERNATIONAL GRENACHE DAY AT MCPRICE MYERS WINES It’s International Grenache Day. Celebrate all weekend long. Offering a special flight showcasing our Grenache wines. Sept. 20 11 a.m.-4:15 p.m., Sept. 21 , 11 a.m.-4:15 p.m. and Sept. 22 , 11 a.m.-4:15 p.m. $25 and up. 805-237-1245. McPrice Myers Wine Company, 3525 Adelaida Rd., Paso Robles, mcpricemyers.com.
WINE LOVERS GUIDE TO PAIRING WITH OLIVE OIL An experience for guests to savor the uniques flavors of Stilson Cellars olive oils and wines paired with small bites curated by of 805 Coastal Kitchen. The workshop will be lead by Gail Todaro, a level 2 olive oil sommelier and owner of GT Oliveworks. Sept. 26 5-6:30 p.m. $65; $55. 805-591-7003. stilsoncellars.com. Stilson Cellars, 1005 Railroad Street, Suite 2, Paso Robles.
SAN LUIS OBISPO BOOZY BOOK FAIR Get ready to relive the
VICTORY GARDEN WORKSHOPS Come learn the basics of how to grow your own food with SLO County UC Master Gardeners; how to start your garden quickly and easily in a container, in the backyard, or in a community garden. Scholarships available. Sept. 22 and Sept. 29 $55 series; $82 couple; $15 class; $45, $75, $10 for OCSD residents. 805-781-5939. Oceano Train Depot, 1650 Front St., Oceano.
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. LIVE MUSIC WITH GUITAR WIZ AT LUNADA GARDEN BISTRO “Guitar Wizard” Billy Foppiano plays a wide range of music, including blues, R&B, classic rock, and more. Fourth Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 805-900-5444. Lunada Garden Bistro, 78 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos.
OPEN MIC NIGHT Come join us each Wednesday for Open Mic Night in the downstairs dining area. Grab some friends and show off your talents. Food and drink service will be available. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. Free. 805-995-3883. schoonerscayucos.com. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
FOREVER GREEN: LIVE AT BIANCHI WINERY Forever Green will provide a
Gallery at Marina Square in Morro Bay presents its latest group photography show, Autumn Skies, through Monday, Sept. 30. This themed exhibit highlights a collection of photographs by seven featured artists, including Karen Peterson (whose photo, Misty Sunset, is pictured). Visit galleryatmarinasquare.com to find out more.
—C.W.
COURTESY PHOTO BY KAREN PETERSON
with
favorites at the Educated Gardener in Santa Margarita. The event is a fundraiser for Friends of the Santa Margarita Library. Sept. 20 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. 805-438-5855. The Educated Gardener, 22210 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ALL AGES OPEN MIC NIGHT Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, San Luis Obispo.
ANNUAL CUESTA ACOUSTIC GUITAR
CONCERT FEATURING LAURENCE
JUBER Guitarist Laurence Juber returns to the CPAC for the annual Cuesta College Acoustic Guitar Concert. Juber is one of the premiere guitarists in the world, having been lead guitarist for McCartney’s Wings. Also performing is Dorian Michael and Jennifer Martin. Sept. 21 7:30-9 p.m. $15-$10. 805-546-3198. tickets.cuesta.edu. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
BHAJAN BHOY The musical project of Ajay Saggar. Sept. 19, 6-9 p.m. my805tix. com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that is easy to listen to but also surprises. Sept. 20 5:30-8:30 p.m. eastoneverett.com. Wolff Vineyards, 6238 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo, 805-781-0448.
FAMILY FUN FRIDAYS: A FAMILY
DANCE CLASS Enjoy a whirlwind of rhythm and laughter. Join for 45 minutes of the hottest line dances for all ages, followed by open dance time. Make memories on the dance floor together.
JAMAAL BAPTISTE MEETS THE ALLSTAR JAZZ PROFESSORS Presented by the SLO County Jazz Federation. Sept. 22 4-6 p.m. my805tix.com/. Mount Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks St., San Luis Obispo.
JAZZ WEDNESDAYS Spinning jazz records all night. Bebop, jazz funk, acid jazz, hard bop, nu jazz, jazz house, crossover, Latin jazz, and more. Featuring guest selectors. Music at a polite volume in an acoustically treated space. Vintage sound system, big warm speakers. Plenty of free parking. Wednesdays, 3-8 p.m. through Oct. 30 Free. 805-439-1544. jansplaceslo.com. Jan’s Place, 1817 Osos St., San Luis Obispo.
JOSH ROSENBLUM This artist writes all of his words and music, taking inspiration from past experiences, the hypothetical, day-to-day struggles, and just good oldfashioned storytelling. Sept. 20 7 p.m. my805tix.com. CongregationHouse, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo. LIBERTINE AND VINYLISTICS PRESENT: INTROVERTED FUNK Visit site for more info on this upcoming funk event at the Libertine in downtown SLO. Sept. 20, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-2337.
LILA DOWNS: LA SÁNCHEZ Presented by Cal Poly Arts, one of the world’s most singular and innovative voices in music, the iconic Grammy and Latin Grammy award-winner Lila Downs is coming to San Luis Obispo in celebration her latest album. Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m. $47-$76. 805-756-4849. calpolyarts.org/20242025season/lila-downs. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.
LIVE MUSIC FROM GUITAR WIZ BILLY FOPPIANO AND MAD DOG Join “Guitar
Cafe, 1819 Osos Street, San Luis Obispo, bontempscreolecafe.com/index.htm.
MC MAGIC LIVE AT THE FREMONT THEATER MC Magic performing live at the Fremont Theater. Sept. 21 8 p.m. $30-$150. fremontslo.com. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600.
MELODIES OF WONDER Join the SLO Wind Orchestra for “Melodies of Wonder” featuring Broadway soprano Amy Goymerac. Enjoy a magical afternoon of diverse musical selections, including works by Jenkins, Grofé, Delibes, Sousa, Anderson, and Shostakovich. Sept. 29, 3-5 p.m. $10-$30. 805-464-7804. SLOwinds.org. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
OKAPI An Asheville, NC-based duo composed of Scott Mitchell Gorski (upright bass, voice) and Lindsey Paige Miller (cello). Sept. 22 6-8 p.m. my805tix. com/. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
2024 LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE CONCERT SERIES These Saturday afternoon concerts are limited and will sell out, so make your purchase early to secure your spot. Saturdays, 2:30-5 p.m. through Oct. 12 my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
DECADES IN, BARE KING Presented by GS3events. Enjoy a handful of metal acts. Sept. 22 6:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Fuego in Grover Beach, 1187 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, (805) 710-6477.
VIOLIN CONCERT: MISCHA LEFKOWITZ
A special violin concert, featuring Mischa Lefkowitz, virtuoso violinist, accompanied
Arts
Cambria and SYV gear up for annual community scarecrow displays
Local businesses and groups in two Central Coast regions will be displaying unique scarecrow creations outside storefronts and other locations throughout the month of October.
Both the Cambria Scarecrow Festival and Santa Ynez Valley Scarecrow Fest will kick off on Tuesday, Oct. 1. The two events invite their respective participants to create their own unique strawstuffed figures. Special awards await the scarecrows that earn the most votes from visitors during polls held in conjunction with both fests.
While named after Cambria, the annual Cambria Scarecrow Festival features scarecrow displays in specific areas in both Cambria and San Simeon. According to press materials, about 200 scarecrows line the streets of both areas each year— specifically Cambria’s east and west villages, Moonstone Beach Drive, and San Simeon’s business district.
As for the Santa Ynez Valley Scarecrow Fest, residents and tourists of six townships—Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, and Solvang—will have the chance to vote for their favorite scarecrows during the valley-wide competition.
For more info on the two festivals, as well as each event’s scarecrow design guidelines and registration details, visit cambriascarecrows.com or syvscarecrows.com.
Nipomo Library
welcomes experienced comedians and newbies to monthly improv group
On the second Saturday of each month, a local improv group invites the public to take part in a free improv class at the Nipomo Library. Described as a collective “that channels the power of comedy for charitable purposes,”
Improv for Good will hold its next library meetup on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 2 to 4 p.m.
According to the nonprofit’s website, Improv for Good often performs at fundraisers and for community members “who could use a little extra cheer, including seniors, disadvantaged children, and caregivers,” and is dedicated to organizing affordable and accessible community classes centered on improv.
The organization began in early 2024 with a core philosophy: “laughter boosts the immune system and provides an overall feeling of well-being.
The group’s library program includes short-form improv games and other activities geared toward both newcomers and experienced comedians looking to stretch their skills. Admission to join each workshop is free.
To find out more about Improv for Good and its monthly meetups, as well as the group’s additional classes and programs, call (805) 556-8495 or visit improvforgood.fun. The Nipomo Library is located at 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo. ∆
—Caleb Wiseblood
BY SAMANTHA HERRERA
Campy done right
Werewolf of Arroyo Grande is full of puns and one-liners that take us back to the ’80s
The Great American Melodrama is known for its silly, audience-engaging, and lighthearted theater. If you haven’t had the opportunity to experience this SLO County staple yet, book yourself a ticket to see Werewolf of Arroyo Grande
Written by Cameron Parker and directed by Michael Brusasco, the show takes place in the ’80s. A man named Harry Palmes relocates to Arroyo Grande to start up a nut-based fast-food restaurant, and he discovers that the town is terrorized by a mean werewolf. is discovery leads the town to come together and put an end to the horror.
I knew this show would be campy, and I wasn’t disappointed. Based in Oceano, I would suggest bringing extra layers as the theater house gets cold.
After getting cozy in my jacket, I went to grab some nachos, the theater’s famous chocolate cake I hear so much about, and a crisp diet coke to wash it all down. Be forewarned, the cake is very fudgy. is play was hands down my favorite show I’ve seen at the Melodrama. It had romance, comedy, and action—newcomer to the stage Tommy Krob didn’t disappoint in his lead role as Harry Palmes, the man with the nut-based fast-food restaurant who moved to town from a faraway land called Santa Maria.
Growing up in Wisconsin, Krob moved to New York after getting his bachelor’s in ne arts in music theatre from Viterbo University. Krob told New Times that he learned about an opportunity with the Melodrama after attending an audition conference in Memphis, Tennessee.
“You prepare a general 90 seconds, and you go on stage where there’s around 90 representatives watching you, and yeah, the Great American Melodrama just happened to like my stu , so they reached out and communicated, asked for more material,” he said.
When’s the next full moon? Werewolf of Arroyo Grande will be playing at The Great American Melodrama located at 1863 Front St. in Oceano and will run until Nov. 19. For more information, visit americanmelodrama.com.
Krob said he will be staying at the Melodrama until the new year and is loving the Central Coast so far.
“I really like it here. It’s small, but it’s big,” he said. “It has everything you could really need.” e real star of the show was Anna MagriMoore as O cer Mag Num. She played the police o cer who’s based in a small town where nothing bad ever happens and who’s a bit dumb and probably shouldn’t have the power she does with aplomb. I was cracking up every time she came on stage.
ALL-SEEING ROOSTER Lil’ Sue (Natalie Mara) has a pet rooster in the Melodrama’s current product of Werewolf of Arroyo Grande. The rooster is an all-seeing being that is able to telepathically speak with whoever is holding it.
Originally from Porterville, Magri-Moore studied music and theater in Santa Barbara before moving up the coast to attend the Paci c Conservatory eatre.
e set and costumes were fabulous with masks, puppets, and, of course, a physic rooster with a super deep voice who at one point became an allknowing being. It was a hoot.
But wait, the Melodrama likes to give their guests two shows for the price of one, and once Werewolf of Arroyo Grande ended, we enjoyed the British Invasion in a Vaudeville Revue directed by Ben Abbott.
is is where Natalie Mara, who played Lil’ Sue in Werewolf of Arroyo Grande, thrived. She had on the cutest out t, her hair was perfect, and her singing was on point.
Paying tribute to British comedy and ’60s rock culture that made its way from England to the rest of the world, the actors donned their best British accents, cracked jokes, and sang popular songs from the Rolling Stones, e Hollies, e Dave Clark Five, and e Beatles—obviously.
“I worked here as an actor for years and we’re always trying to think of Vaudeville ideas, but sort of always kind of pressed for ideas,” Abbot told New Times after the show. “I was going to use this one years ago and then COVID happened, so it got put on the back burner, but I really just love e Beatles and British humor.” ∆
Reach Sta Writer Samantha Herrera at sherrera@ newtimesslo.com.
THE TRANSFORMATION In the Great American Melodrama’s production of Werewolf of Arroyo Grande, Harry Palmes, played by Tommy Krob, gets bit by the Arroyo Grande werewolf and turns during his first full moon.
COMING TO FIGHT Once the town finds out that the werewolf is eating pet roosters, they come together to help destroy the creature in Werewolf of Arroyo Grande at the Melodrama in Oceano.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF STACY HALVORSEN
Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living
We are a diverse, welcoming community that accepts and supports everyone’s spiritual journey.
We teach the Science of Mind and Spirit, an a irmative philosophy free of dogma, and encourage personal development through questioning, contemplation, and direct personal spiritual experience.
We o er Sunday services, meditation, classes, events, concerts, spiritual coaching, and more.
If you are ready to live your best life, come check us out!
‘Wondrous presence’
David Hinton ( e Making of a Legend: Gone with the Wind) directs this documentary on the lms of Emeric Pressburger and Michael Powell, with rare archival material from the personal collections of Powell, Pressburger, and Martin Scorsese, who speaks in depth about these two cinematic giants and their lms. (131 min.)
MADE IN ENGLAND: THE FILMS OF POWELL AND PRESSBURGER
What’s it rated? Unrated
What’s it worth, Anna? Full price
What’s it worth, Glen? Full price
Where’s it showing? The Palm Theatre of San Luis Obispo
Glen Movie lovers, this is a must-see. Scorsese explains how Powell and Pressburger’s lms were inspirational to his own career. I just eat this stu up. I recently read Quentin Tarantino’s 2022 book Cinema Speculations, in which he breaks down his formative lm-watching years and the movies that inspired his style. Such a great read. is documentary o ers similar insights into Scorsese’s career and examines some amazing lms, most of which I haven’t seen. I know e Red Shoes, but now e Tales of Ho man, Black Narcissus, and e Life and Death of Colonel Blimp are on my watch list. e lms are theatrical and larger than life, and these two lmmakers were groundbreaking. Anna is lm gets into the nitty-gritty of lmmaking, but it’s meant not just for movie lovers but lovers of movie history, style, and those who totally nerd out on nding connections between directors and creators of the past and our greats now. ere were a lot of lms in here that I was unfamiliar with, but having Scorsese walk us through them and draw attention to speci c styling, details, and insights is fascinating. is lm has a speci c audience in mind, but movie bu s and particularly those who love old movies will likely nd this lm intoxicating. Scorsese is a wonderful guide, and his depth of knowledge can’t be challenged. I loved hearing him talk
THE RED SHOES
What’s it rated? Not rated When? Saturday through Sunday, Sept. 21-22, at 4 p.m.; Monday, Sept. 22, at 7 p.m. Where’s it showing? The Palm Theatre of San Luis Obispo
Hans Christian Anderson knew how to spin a cautionary yarn, and this movie of the same name is no different. Is art worth dying for?
Vicky Page (Moira Shearer) is a talented young ballerina when she meets Boris Lermontov (Anton Walbrook).
After attending a performance of Hearts on Fire by Lermontov’s ballet company, he invites her to a rehearsal. Also at that rehearsal is Julian Craster, a music student who wrote the score to Hearts on Fire and has recently been hired by Lermontov.
about how these lms in uenced his own, drawing literal connections between scenes. I know I used the word fascinating once already, but it truly is.
Glen Now that the SLO International Film Festival has taken over the Palm eatre, this lm and their screening of e Red Shoes this week (see below) is the kind of innovative programing we can expect to see in the future. e Palm also screened Black Narcissus last week. Scorsese met Powell in 1974 and found a director virtually blackballed from the lm industry, and their friendship is explored in the documentary. We learn, for instance, that Scorsese was instrumental in generating renewed interest in Powell’s 1960 horror lm Peeping Tom, which in turn spurred interest in Powell and Pressburger’s oeuvre. It’s a terri c story.
Anna Scorsese is a wealth of knowledge on
BL AST BL AST FROM THE FROM THE
Recognizing her talent in rehearsal, Lermontov hires Vicky to star in his new touring ballet The Red Shoes What comes is a film chock-full of gorgeous dancers and dancing. Even a slight lover of ballet will be thrilled.
The story, however, darkens. As Julian and Vicky grow together as they work and secretly begin a romance, Lermontov’s jealousy and desire for Vicky grows overwhelming, and he soon puts his power to work to get Vicky. What will Vicky choose—life with her true love or the chance to dance her way into career greatness?
The story carries the right amount of tragedy and torture alongside its beautiful dance pieces. Old-movie fans, this is a winner! (135 min.)
—Anna
all things lm, and seeing and hearing the inside scoop is great. It’s a treat to watch lms through the eyes of those who know them best, and it makes one appreciate the real art and technical detail that goes into lmmaking. Not only did this lm give me a list of old movies to seek out, but it renewed my vigor for lm in general. See this and e Red Shoes for a real dose of lm culture. Glen As Scorsese said, “Certain lms you simply run all the time, and you live with them. As you grow older, they grow deeper. I’m not sure how it happens, but it does. For me, that body of work is a wondrous presence, a constant source of energy, and a reminder of what life and art are all about.” ∆
Senior Sta Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Split Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
REBEL RIDGE
What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2024
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Writer-director Jeremy Saulnier (Blue Ruin, Green Room) helms this good oldfashioned vigilante film about ex-Marine Terry Richmond (Aaron Pierre) who runs into trouble when he heads to the small town of Shelby Springs to bail out his cousin, Mike (C.J. LeBlanc), who’s arraigned on drug charges and if transferred to state prison will be in danger for informing on a gangster. As he bicycles into down, Terry’s bike is rammed and he’s detained by dirty cops Evan Marston (David Denman) and Steve Lann (Emory Cohen), who seize his $36,000 in cash under the
CORRUPTION
JUNCTION Chief Sandy Burnne (Don Johnson, left) uses the power of civil forfeiture to steal cash from former Marine Terry Richmond (Aaron Pierre), who’s in town to bail out his cousin, in Rebel Ridge, streaming on Netflix.
guise of civil forfeiture, arguing without evidence that the money is the result of illegal activity. When he goes to the police station to report the money stolen, he discovers Chief Sandy Burnne (Don Johnson) is as corrupt as the officers beneath him. The only sympathetic person he encounters is courthouse employee Summer McBride (AnnaSophia Robb). Terry, a close-quarters combat expert, squares off against the police force to expose their corruption, save Summer from retaliation, and generally kick the asses on a bunch of redneck assholes—think First Blood, The
OLD-SCHOOL Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger, and their crew appear in this archival photo, one of many archival elements displayed in the documentary Made in England: The Films of Powell and Pressburger, screening at the Palm Theatre of San Luis Obispo.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE COHEN MEDIA GROUP
PHOTO COURTESY OF UCLA
& TELEVISION IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE BFI, THE FILM FOUNDATION,
GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT, AND
CIRCUS
SHOES Moira Shearer stars as Victoria Page, a dancer torn between her desire to become a prima ballerina and the man she loves, in the 1948 Academy Awardwinning classic, The Red Shoes, screening at The Palm Theatre.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX
HARVESTING LOVE FOR THE CHAPEL
Music
BY GLEN STARKEY
Stacked deck
Good Medicine and Numbskull for the win
Good grief, do these two promotors have a lot of shows this week.
I’m probably most excited about Hayes Carll & The Band of Heathens on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at BarrelHouse Brewing in Paso Robles (6 p.m.; all ages; $38.83 at goodmedicinepresents.com) with local singer-songwriter Joe Koenig opening. Carll’s an amazing songwriter and singer in his own right, but The Band of Heathens have two equally amazing songwriters and singers in band members Ed Jurdi and Gordy Quist
Carll and The Heathens crossed paths many times during their careers, so joining forces felt inevitable. As their bio explains, they’re “armed to the teeth with guitars, swagger, and some of the most irresistible American rock ’n’ roll, folk, country, and soulful blues anthems of the last two decades. Far from coming out of nowhere, Hayes & The Heathens is a union born out of years from mutual respect.”
Back in October of 2023, they shared a freewheeling family jam in Luckenbach, Texas.
“We had such a blast collaborating and playing together out in Luckenbach, that we wanted to take this on the road and share it with more people,” Quist said in press materials.
“We’ve played a lot of music together over the last 10 years,” Carll added, “and our creative relationship continues to evolve into its own thing. Hayes & The Heathens is that thing.”
“This sort of medicine show, revival, rock ’n’ roll circus is a unique presentation of our music,” Jurdi concluded. “I think anyone who loves the spontaneity and chemistry of a live performance is going to be in for a magical evening. I know we’re going to have a good time!”
Numbskull and Good Medicine also has singer-songwriter Dave Hause on Friday, Sept. 20, in Club Car Bar (8 p.m.; all ages; $24.41 at goodmedicinepresents.com). Hause came onto the scene in 2011 with his debut, Resolutions, and now the Philadelphia-born songwriter is touring in support of his sixth studio album, Drive It Like It’s Stolen On his Black Bandana Tour, new school country rocker Corey Kent plays on Saturday, Sept. 21, at BarrelHouse Brewing (6 p.m.; all ages; $32.65 at goodmedicinepresents.com), with special
guest Karley Scott Collins. Kent has a “reputation for red-dirt swagger and bluecollar grit,” according to his bio.
Ripping Texas blues-rock singersongwriter and guitarist Ally Venable plays on Tuesday, Sept. 24, in The Siren (7 p.m.; 21-and-older; $21.32 at goodmedicinepresents.com). She’s hard to miss in her signature glitter dresses and black knee-high boots, and she’s been featured on the Experience Hendrix Show at the ACL Live at Moody Theater in Austin, Texas.
Texas singer-songwriter Braxton Keith plays The Siren on Wednesday, Sept. 25 (7 p.m.; 21-and-older; $30.59 at goodmedicinepresents.com), with local country act Bitterwater Road opening.
Keith’s “inspired by the traditional twang of storytellers like Marty Robbins and Merle Haggard, [and] he writes songs that blend modern sounds with the best elements of oldschool country,” his bio explains.
“These are songs about love, heartbreak, and drinking, which are things everybody knows about,” he said. “I’m not the only person to write songs about those things. But I’m the only person to do it my way.”
Numbskull and Good Medicine are also bringing Faye Webster to the Madonna Expo Center on Thursday, Sept. 26, but this one’s sold out.
The Siren
Enjoy a triple header when Hot Moms Club, the San Diego/LA-based music project of Eliza Rose Vera, joins local singersongwriters Max MacLaury and Jake Schoonmaker on Friday, Sept. 20 (7 p.m.; 21-and-older; free).
Local alt-pop-rock act Ultra plays on Saturday, Sept. 21 (7:30 p.m.; 21-andolder; free), covering acts such as INXS, The Police, Oasis, The Cure, STP, Depeche Mode, Simple Minds, Tears for Fears, Modern English, REM, Smash Mouth, Coldplay, The Clash, Nirvana, U2, Foo Fighters, Jesus Jones, and more.
Ukulele prodigy Feng E and guitar virtuosos Christie Lenée and Kyran Daniel play on Thursday, Sept. 26 (7 p.m.; 21-andolder; $30.12 at tixr.com). Born in Taiwan in 2007, Feng E was a finalist on Asia’s Got Talent at the age of 10. Lenée is a singer-songwriter and renowned fingerstyle guitarist whose sound is best described as symphonic. Daniel has performed alongside Tommy Emmanuel, who declared, “I knew at the time he would be an incredible force in music.”
I mentioned them last week, but don’t forget SLO Brew Live and (((folkYEAH!))) present LA-based synth pop band Inner Wave on Thursday, Sept. 19 (doors at 7 p.m.; 18-and-older; $39.05 at ticketweb.com).
This Saturday, Sept. 21, Rod & Hammer hosts its third annual Whiskey Festival (noon; all ages; free), with music by the award-winning singer-songwriter act the Josh Rosenblum Band, Latin jazz and funk all-star band MiniNova, and alt-rockers Carbon City Lights. You can also expect mechanical bull rides, whiskey tastings for those 21-and-older, a craft market, axe throwing, smoked meats, and more. Later that same day in a ticketed event, see funk legends Diggin Dirt, with local funk act The Funk Junket opening (doors at 7 p.m.; all ages; $29.78 at ticketweb.com). The members of Diggin Dirt might look like a group Humboldt hippies, but the horndriven septet delivers authentic-sounding ’60s funk.
Australian reggae star Sammy Johnson will bring his Maori and Polynesian inspired island, soul, and jazz sounds to Rod & Hammer, with local reggae group True Zion opening, on Sunday, Sept. 22 (doors at 7 p.m.; 18-and-older; $36.48 at ticketweb. com). “Being Polynesian, a lot of Polynesian
cultural stuff is done with reggae, and I always had a passion for the old stuff, like Peter Tosh (of The Wailers),” Johnson said in his bio.
Melody-driven ska-punk-reggae act Bumpin Uglies plays on Wednesday, Sept. 25 (doors at 6:30 p.m.; 18-and-older; $27.21 at ticketweb.com), with Tunnel Vision and Dubbest opening. This show’s dope.
On Sept. 21 , at Rod & Hammer Rock, enjoy the free daylong Whiskey Festival followed that evening by a ticketed show for funk legends Diggin Dirt.
SLO Brew Live at Rod & Hammer Rock
SONGWRITERS GALORE Numbskull and Good Medicine present Hayes Carll & The Band of Heathens on Sept. 24 , at BarrelHouse Brewing.
PHOTO COURTESY OF
JUMPING FLEA Sixteen-year-old ukulele prodigy Feng E plays The Siren on Sept. 26
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SIREN
PHOTO COURTESY OF MINT TALENT GROUP
WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE British dance band Jungle, on their Volcano World Tour, plays Vina Robles Amphitheatre on Sept. 25 .
PHOTO COURTESY OF NEDERLANDER
STARKEY continued page 28
Vina Robles Amphitheatre
Dance music act Jungle, which just took home a Brit Award for Best Group, stops at Vina as part of their Volcano World Tour on Wednesday, Sept. 25 (8 p.m.; all ages; $51 to $174 at ticketmaster.com). Their most recent album, Volcano, topped the charts, and their single “Back on 74” hit No. 25 in the UK and the Top 10 on the US Billboard’s Top Dance/ Electronic Songs. French-born Sudanese American rapper BAS opens the show.
Fremont Theater
Mexican rapper and singer MC Magic headlines on Saturday, Sept. 21 (8 p.m.; all ages; $30 to $150 at prekindle.com), with a three act show that includes Baby Bash and Lil Rob. Magic is known for hits like “So Fly,” “Sexy Lady,” “Million Dollar Mexican,” and “4-Ever.”
Polynesian group Maoli, fronted by singer Glenn Awong, stops in the Fremont during their Boots on the Ground Tour on Thursday, Sept. 26 (8 p.m.; all ages; $29.50 at prekindle.com). Called Hawaii and Polynesia’s “No. 1 independent commercial recording artist,” Maoli has performed across the U.S., New Zealand, Australia, and the South Pacific. In 2020, they won group of the year and album of the year for their record, Sense of Purpose, at iHeart’s Island Awards.” Fia and Don Louis open the show
More music …
Don’t forget Amsterdambased performer Bhajan Bhoy (aka Ajay Saggar) at The Bunker on Thursday, Sept. 19 (6 p.m.; all ages; $12.56 at my805tix.com).
His latest album, Peace Frequencies/Healing Frequencies mixes raga guitar, spaced-out drone, blissed-out electronics, and more. Frequent Weaver and The Succulent Marrow open.
Rainforest rave? What the what? This Thursday, Sept. 19, Traveling Haüs Productions is collaborating with Linnaea’s Café to create an “immersive electronic dance music rainforest experience” (8:30 to 11:50 p.m.; 21-and-older; $12.50 at app.plots.
events/event/rainforestcafelinneas21). Hear DJ sets by Hungry Boi, Zahn, and Luke G On Sunday, Sept. 22, The Rock 97.3/107.9 and Fog Horn Pete present a Benefit Concert and Classic Car Meet Up in Baywood at Nardonne’s Beer and Wine Garden (noon to 4 p.m.; all-ages; free). The lineup includes rock and rollers the Kerosene Kings fronted by singersongwriter Geo Gabriele They deliver heartfelt ballads and high-energy anthems. James River and Tony Street open.
The SLO County Jazz Federation presents Latin jazz-inspired pianist Jamaal Baptiste, the new leader of jazz studies at Cal Poly, in concert on Sunday, Sept. 22, in SLO’s Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church (doors at 3:30 p.m. with the show at 4; all ages; $35 general admission and $10 for students at my805tix. com). He’ll be joined by jazz professors Dave Becker and Ron McCarley on saxes and flute, Darrell Voss on drums, and Ken Hustad and Dylan Johnson on bass.
The Bunker and Frequent Weaver present North Carolina duo Okapi at The Bunker on Sunday, Sept. 22 (6 to 8 p.m.; all ages; $12.56 at my805tix. com). Scott Mitchell Gorski is on upright bass and vocals, and Lindsey Paige Miller is on cello, and according to their bio, they hail “from differing musical backgrounds” but share “a passion for unique approaches to songwriting, craftsmanship, and structure, … formulating candid, cathartic, and intentionally intricate orchestrations rooted in honesty and rawness.” ∆
Contact Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.
ISLAND SOUNDS Maoli, featuring lead singer Glenn Awong, brings their Polynesia sounds to the Fremont Theater on Sept. 26
CARS & MUSIC Rock band the Kerosene Kings is one of three acts playing The Rock 97.3/107.9 Benefit Concert and Classic Car Meet Up in Baywood’s Nardonne’s Beer and Wine Garden on Sept. 22
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE KEROSENE KINGS
Flavor
BY
Fresh fuel
Papery husks speckle the soil next to empty stalks. Yellowing in the sun between rows of melon and trellised cucumbers, they’re evidence of recently harvested corn.
A quick glance toward the upper half of Firstfruits Farm reveals a tall green patch of stalks waiting for volunteers to do the same to them when the corn is ripe enough to pick.
“We try to do succession planting so we can stretch out the season on some of these things,” said Ben Horton, Firstfruits’ harvest captain, who’s volunteered with the allvolunteer nonprofit for the past four years.
The field starts with tomatoes and bell peppers, moving onto cantaloupe and watermelon, which give way to cucumbers and zucchini, squash, beets, greens, and more. Since 2013, the small-scale operation has grown an increasing variety of produce for those in need—starting on a half-acre parcel near the airport that now holds its fruit orchard and later adding a 1-acre field behind Thousands
Hills Pet Resort. Firstfruits became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2019.
And thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo and the hard work of volunteers, the nonprofit has a newly built walk-in chiller to help that produce last a little longer. The chiller was completed just in time to deal with the summer heat, Firstfruits Communications Director Sara Allen said.
She’s been a volunteer board member for about a year, she said, but has volunteered with the organization for longer.
Horton said that when the temperature hit 100 degrees at the beginning of September, a cool place to keep recently harvested produce was “nice to have.”
“Even having the greens out for 20 minutes, they were starting to wilt,” he said.
“Being able to cool them down helps them maintain their nutritional value and look good too.”
As of September, Firstfruits was distributing produce to six local organizations that tackle food insecurity: God’s Storehouse in San Luis Obispo, Estero Bay Kindness Coalition along SLO County’s North Coast, People Helping People in Los Osos, Rock Harbor Christian Fellowship in Morro Bay, New Life Community Church in Pismo Beach, and Transitions-Mental Health Association. In 2023, the organization provided almost 17,000 pounds of fresh produce to an estimated 700 families.
“A lot of our partners do get food from grocery stores in the area, but a lot of the food they’re getting is the stuff that’s been removed from the shelves,” Horton said. “And it’s really rough.”
“A lot of the food is at the end of its shelf life, and what we’re donating is at the beginning of its shelf life,” Allen added.
She said the goal is to give folks options, too, like they would have in a grocery store. The only thing the nonprofit doesn’t grow is potatoes. Why? They have a little bit less nutritional value than other fruits and vegetables, and potatoes are commonly donated to food pantries and
food distribution organizations.
Instead, FirstFruits reserves that precious field space to grow something like tomatillos.
“The population here is interested in them and you don’t normally find them in a food pantry, so it’s a treat to be able to give that to them,” Allen said. “We try to grow a variety; we try to experiment with different crops every year. Some work out, some don’t.”
In 2023, the farm grew about 40 different crops. That was also the first year that Firstfruits harvested from a portion of its field year-round. Part of the planted acreage is being traditionally farmed this year—plowed in the winter and planted with a cover crop. But the raised beds in the upper part of the field will get turned over once the harvest is done and replanted with a winter crop.
“We call it flipping a bed,” Allen said. “This is a much more sustainable practice of farming. … The soil here is very hard, as you can see, so having these raised beds is much more effective for the plants.”
The raised bed soil beneath the beet greens looks much richer, darker than the crumbled earth holding up cantaloupes a few rows down, and Horton said it’s thanks to donated compost from Cal Poly and Kompogas SLO
RICH AND CLEAN Firstfruits Farm grows organic produce destined for the pantries of those living with food insecurity in SLO County. As part of its sustainability efforts, the nonprofit recently started growing some of its crops, such as lettuce, in raised beds.
PHOTO BY CAMILLIA LANHAM
(an anaerobic digestion facility not far from the farm that turns green waste into energy).
“My gut feel is that we’re getting three times the amount of produce from the same space,” he said.
This new way of farming was dreamed up by a fellow Firstfruits’ board member, one of several who are always trying to think of better, more efficient ways to accomplish Firstfruits’ mission of growing produce to serve food insecure locals and caring for the Earth. The nonprofit grows organically, recycles, and is always trying to think of new ways of being sustainable.
Most of the board members have some home gardening experience, Horton said. Some members have construction backgrounds, so they can help with irrigation and infrastructure maintenance. Retired board members can spend more time honing the farming craft, and others, such as Allen and Horton, work full time in addition to the volunteer hours they dedicate to the farm (Allen is an engineering manager at MindBody and Horton works in IT security).
All of the board members are currently sharing the duties of executive director until someone comes along with the right collection of skills, time off, and resources to volunteer for the role.
Harvesting bi-weekly on Tuesday mornings and Friday evenings, with farm work days on Saturday mornings and Monday evenings, also requires volunteers. How many show up depends on the day. Some come every week and there are others who appear once, never to return again. Glean SLO members often volunteer for the
harvest, Allen said, which is how she found out about Firstfruits.
“I just fell in love with it and kept coming back. I kept volunteering with it instead of through Glean SLO,” Allen said. “I grew up with gardens. I grew up loving to play in the dirt, and my day job is working in front of a computer all day, so it’s fun to be out here, doing something that is volunteering outdoors and doing something that is great for the community.”
Editor Camillia Lanham is also harvesting fresh produce. Send seeds of change to clanham@newtimesslo.com.
Breezeway facing Santa Rosa Street, County of San Luis Obispo General Services Building, 1087 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93408, MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps, as the duly Appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust recorded on June 24, 2013 as Instrument No. 2013036372, of official records in the Office of the Recorder of San Luis Obispo County, California, executed by TOMMY A. POSADAS, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN, as Trustor(s), in favor of BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER, in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the time of sale, that certain property situated in said County, California describing the land therein as: AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED OF TRUST The property heretofore described is being sold “as is”. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 880 W TEFFT ST, NIPOMO, CA 93444 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligations secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of this Notice of Trustee’s Sale is estimated to be $209,846.74 (Estimated). However, prepayment premiums, accrued interest and advances will increase this figure prior to sale. Beneficiary’s bid at said sale may include all or part of said amount. In addition to cash, the Trustee will accept a cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the California Financial Code and authorized to do business in California, or other such funds as may be acceptable to the Trustee. In the event tender other than cash is accepted, the Trustee may withhold the issuance of the Trustee’s Deed Upon Sale
that
may
You
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 Auction.com at 800.280.2832 for information regarding the Trustee’s Sale or visit the Internet Website address www.Auction.com for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case, CA05000230-24-1. 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 Tenant NOTICE TO TENANT FOR FORECLOSURES AFTER JANUARY 1, 2021 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 800.280.2832, or visit this internet website www.Auction.com, using the file number assigned to this case CA05000230-24-1 to find the date on which the
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER
ESTATE OF:
BETTY HARBST HULST DECEDENT
CASE NUMBER:24PR-0282
To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: BETTY HARBST HULST
A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by LaRonda Chirman
In the Superior Court of California, County of SAN LUIS OBISPO.
THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that LaRonda Chirman be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.
THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)
The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.
A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: October 15, 2024, at 9:01 a.m. in Dept.: 4 in person at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, located at 1050 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Civil & Family Law Branch
IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.
YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a formal Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.
Attorney for Petitioner: David A. Shaprio, Esq.
5757 Wilshire Boulevard, PH-3 Los Angeles, CA 90036
(310)773-0377
September 12, 19, 26, 2024
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:
CAROL A. HELWIG
DECEDENT
CASE NUMBER:24PR-0284
To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: CAROL HELWIG
A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by BRIAN G. HELLWIG In the Superior Court of California, County of SAN LUIS OBISPO.
THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that BRIAN G. HELLWIG be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.
THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.
A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: October 15, 2024, at 9:01 a.m. in Dept.: 4 in person at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, located at 1050 Monterey Street, ROOM 220, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. San Luis Obispo County Superior Court (Probate)
IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.
YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a formal Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.
Attorney for Petitioner: Michael G. Abrate 601 University Avenue, Suite 225 Sacramento, CA 95825 916-550-2688
September 5, 12, 19, 2024
Notice of Public Sale
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to Sections 21700-21716 of the Business & Professions Code, Section 2328 of the UCC. Section 535 of the Penal Code and provisions of the Civil Code.
The undersigned is hereby given notice that a public lien sale of the following personal property will be held online at storageauctions.net and will end at the hour of 10 AM on the 8th Day of October, 2024 where said property has been stored and which are located at:
Traffic Way Storage, 5395 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA 93422 County of San Luis Obispo, State of California, the following:
Mariela BritoSavannah Partain September 19, 2024
Notice of Public Sale
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to Sections 21700-21716 of the Business & Professions Code, Section 2328 of the UCC. Section 535 of the Penal Code and provisions of the Civil Code.
The undersigned is hereby given notice that a public lien sale of the following personal property will be held online at storageauctions.net and will end at the hour of 10:30 AM on the 8th Day of October, 2024 where said property has been stored and which are located at:
Downtown Mini Storage, 9200 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422
County of San Luis Obispo, State of California, the following Ricardo Ramirez
September 19, 2024
NOTICE OF SALE OF ABANDONED PERSONAL PROPERTY
Notice is given that undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to sections 21700-21716 of the Business and Professions Code, Section 2328 of the Commercial Code, Section 535 of the Penal Code and provisions of the Civil Code. “SuperStorage”, at 1380 Santa Ynez, Los Osos, Ca. 93402. will sell by competitive bidding ending on or after September 24th, 2024 on or after 10:00 A.M., property in storage units. Auction is to be held online at www.storagetreasures.com.
Denise West (5x7)
John Dwyer (5X7) Purchases must be paid for at time of sale in CASH ONLY. All purchased items sold as is, where is. Items must be removed at the time of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Advertiser reserves the right to bid. Dated this September 9 th , 2024. To view items and units up for auction, go to StorageTreasures.com
Auction by StorageTreasures. com
Phone (855)722-8853
Auctioneer License: 3112562
Bond#
SuperStorage (805) 481-1010
September 12, 19, 2024
NOTICE OF SALE OF ABANDONED PERSONAL PROPERTY
Notice is given that undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to sections 21701-21716 of the Business and Professions Code, Section 2328 of the Commercial Code, Section 535 of the Penal Code and provisions of the Civil Code. “SuperStorage”, 2050 22 nd St. Oceano, CA 93445 will sell by competitive bidding ending on or after September 24th , 2024, on or after 10:00
A.M., property in storage units.
Auction is to be held online at www.storagetreasures.com.
Thomas Teel (10x10)
Thomas Teel (10x10) Purchases must be paid for at time of sale in CASH ONLY. All purchased items sold as is, where is. Items must be removed at the time of sale. Sales are subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Advertiser reserves the right to bid.
Dated this September 9 th , 2024. Auction by StorageTreasures. com
Phone (480) 397-6503
Auctioneer License: 3112562
Bond#
SuperStorage (805) 474-4445
September 12, 19, 2024
NOTICE OF SALE OF
ABANDONED PERSONAL
PROPERTY
Notice is given that undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to sections 21700-21716 of the Business and Professions Code, Section 2328 of the Commercial Code, Section 535 of the Penal Code and provisions of the Civil Code. “SuperStorage”, (formerly known as (Local-Lockit) at 884 Farroll Rd. Grover Beach, CA 93433 will sell by competitive bidding ending on or after September 24th, 2024, on or after 10:00 A.M., property in storage units. Auction is to be held online at www.storagetreasures.com.
Nathen Righetti (20x8)
Jerry A. Henkel (8x8)
James McNeally (8x5)
Purchases must be paid for at time of sale in CASH ONLY. All purchased items sold as is, where is. Items must be removed at the time of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Advertiser reserves the right to bid.
Dated this September 9 th , 2024.
To view items and units up for auction, go to StorageTreasures.com
Auction by StorageTreasures.com
Phone (855)722-8853
Auctioneer License: 3112562
Bond#
SuperStorage (805) 481-1010
September 12, 19, 2024
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
CASE NUMBER: 24CVP0260
To all interested persons:
Petitioner: Phillip Hirzel Cao filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:
PRESENT NAME: Phillip Hirzel Cao, to PROPOSED NAME: Phillip Cao Hirzel.
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: October 16, 2024, 9:30 am Dept. Paso Room 2, in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 901 Park Street Paso Robles, CA 93446. Civil Court Operations. 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:August 30, 2024.. /s/: Michael C. Kelley, Judge of the Superior Court. September 12, 19, 26, October 3, 2024
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2024-1957
OLD FILE NO. 2019-1447
11TH STREET STUDIO, 1714 Pine Ave, Los Osos, CA 93402. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 06/12/2019. The following person(s) have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Kate Marita Walstad (1714 Pine Ave, Los Osos, CA 93402), Christopher William Walstad (1714 Pine Ave, Los Osos, CA 93402). This business was conducted by A Married Couple Kate Marita Walstad, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 09/12/2024. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By A. Trujillo, Deputy Clerk. September 19, 26, October 3, 10, 2024
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
CASE NUMBER: 24CV-0519
To all interested persons: Petitioner: Sarah Meiling Hibble filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT
NAME: Sarah Meiling Hibble, to PROPOSED NAME: Sarah Meiling Marr.
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: October 17, 2024, 9:00 am Dept. 2, in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1035 Palm Street, Room 385 San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Civil Court Operations. 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: August 9, 2024.
/s/: Craig B. van Rooyen, Judge of the Superior Court.
August 29, September 5, 12, 19, 2024 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
CASE NUMBER: 24CV-0535
To all interested persons:
Petitioner: Patrick John Goonan AKA Patrick John Wolf AKA Patrick J. Wolf filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Patrick John Goonan AKA Patrick John Wolf AKA Patrick J. Wolf, to PROPOSED NAME: Patrick John Wolf.
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: November 20, 2024, 9:00 am Dept. 4, in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1035 Palm Street, Room 385 San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Civil Court Operations. 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: August 27, 2024.
/s/:Tana L. Coates, Judge of the Superior Court. September 5, 12, 19, 26, 2024 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 24CV-0558
To all interested persons: Petitioner: Brian E Saylor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Brian Eldon Saylor, to PROPOSED NAME: Peter North Dior.
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: November 07, 2024, 9:00 am Dept. Paso Room 2, in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1050 Monterey Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Civil Court Operations. 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: November 7, 2024. /s/: Craig van Royen, Judge of the Superior Court. September 19, 26, October 3, 10, 2024
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
CASE NUMBER: 24CV0583
To all interested persons: Petitioner: Kinson Her filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Kinson Her, to PROPOSED NAME: Kaden Her.
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: October 30, 2024, 9:00 am Dept. Paso Room 4, in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo,1035 Palm Street, Room 385, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Civil Court Operations. 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: November 7, 2024. /s/: Tana L Coates, Judge of the Superior Court.
September 19, 26, October 3, 10, 2024
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 24CVP0244
To all interested persons: Petitioner: Jimmy Dale Smith filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Jimmy Dale Smith, to PROPOSED NAME: James Dale Smith.
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: October 9, 2024, 9:30 am P2, in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 901 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446. Civil Court Operations. 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 15, 2024.
/s/: Michael C. Kelley, Judge of the Superior Court.
August 29, September 5, 12, 19, 2024
Human Relations Commission
The San Luis Obispo Human Relations Commission will hold a Regular Meeting on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Hearing Room 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:
• 2024-25 DEI High Impact Grant Program Funding Recommendation: This is a public hearing to solicit comments on the HRC Review Subcommittee grant funding recommendation for the 202425 DEI High Impact Grant Program. Staff will provide a brief description of the grant including details of the grant process, funding areas and requirements, and the review subcommittee recommendations.
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 contact the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at (805) 781-7073 for more information, or to request an agenda report. September 19, 2024
PUBLIC NOTICE
On 05/01/2024, found currency was turned over to the San Luis Obispo Police Department. If this is not claimed by the rightful owner seven days after the date of this advertisement, it is proposed that the item will become the property of the individual who located it. If anyone believes this item is their property, they are asked to notify the San Luis Obispo Police Department at 805781-7360. Anyone attempting to claim this item will be asked to show verification of ownership. SLOPD Case #240501063
September 19, 2024
SEPTEMBER
10, 2024 COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING BRIEF
02. Item 34: Public Comment Period – Items not on the agenda: E. Greening; J. Burns Slater; G. Kirkland; C. Perry; R. Mhassen; M. Brown & G. Grewal: speak. No action taken.
03. Item 35: State Legislative activities update, rec’d & filed w/ 2 motions by 4-1 vote to add support of Prop 35 and 36..
04. Item 36: Special services consulting contract w/ Mott MacDonald Group, Inc. not to exceed $684,750 to prepare an Offshore Wind Operations & Maintenance Infrastructure Study for Port San Luis, Cal Poly (pier), & Morro Bay; authorizing CAO to sign subrecipient agreements, approved.
05. Item 37: Res. 2024-214, approving the Spartan Race Inc’s application for a Temporary Commercial Outdoor Entertainment License with findings and conditions of approval for an event to be held at Santa Margarita Ranch on 11/2 & 11/3, adopted.
07. Item 39: Title 29 Affordable Housing Fund FY 2023-24 Annual Report, approved w/ direction to staff to form adhoc committee to engage with community stakeholders on the implementation of actions that the Board has already directed the Planning Dept to bring back to the board.
08. Item 40: Board Member Comments & Reports on Meetings: John Peschong: announces a Latino Festival on 9/15. Supervisor Paulding: announces the Creeks to Coast clean up event on 9/21 Supervisor Ortiz-Legg: speaks to the upcoming annual 3CE meeting in Santa Cruz & announces a Proposition 36 Fundraiser on 9/17.
MEETING ADJOURNED
For more details, view meeting videos at: https://www. slocounty.ca.gov/Departments/Administrative-Office/ Clerk-of-the-Board/Clerk-of-the-Board-Services/Board-ofSupervisors-Meetings-and-Agendas.aspx
Matthew P. Pontes, County Administrative Officer & Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
By: Annette Ramirez, Deputy Clerk of the Board of Supervisors September 19, 2024
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
NOTICE OF HOW AND WHERE TO OBTAIN CAMPAIGN
STATEMENTS
Pursuant to Section 2.40.060 of the San Luis Obispo Municipal Code, campaign statements for the General Municipal Election of November 5, 2024 are made available to the public on the City’s website at www.slocity.org/government/municipal-elections and at the City Clerk’s Office, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, during normal working hours, Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday by appointment only. To make an appointment, call (805) 781-7114 or email cityclerk@slocity.org.
Deadline for candidates to file:
September 26, 2024
October 24, 2024
January 31, 2025
Teresa Purrington
City Clerk
September 19, 2024
First Pre-Election Campaign Statements (Form 460) due for the period covering July 1, 2024 through September 21, 2024
Second Pre-Election Campaign Statements (Form 460) due for the period covering September 22, 2024 through October 19, 2024 Semi-Annual Campaign Statements (Form 460) due for the period covering October 20, 2024 through December 31, 2024
CITY OF PISMO BEACH STATE OF CALIFORNIA NOTICE TO PROPOSERS
PROPOSALS will be received at the office of the City Clerk, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, California, until 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, October 17, 2024 as determined by www.time.gov for performing work as follows:
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, INSPECTION AND ADMINISTRATION SERVICES FOR THE PISMO BEACH WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT CLARIFIERS EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT
The City of Pismo Beach is interested in acquiring the services of a qualified firm or a joint venture of firms to provide Construction Management, Inspection and Administration Services for the Clarifier Rehabilitation Project. All proposals will be compared on the basis of understanding the scope of work to be performed, methods and procedures to be used, management, personnel and experience, and consultation and coordination with the City of Pismo Beach.
Additional proposal packages may be obtained from the Public Works Department, Engineering Division, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449 or by calling (805) 773-4656. Printed versions of this request for proposals are available for a non-refundable fee of $39 and PDF versions may be emailed at no charge by contacting Erin Olsen at eolsen@pismobeach.org. For specific questions regarding the proposal please call Daniel Contreras at (805) 779-1201 or email at dcontreras@pismobeach.org
ERICA INDERLIED, CITY CLERK
September 19, 2024
SAN LUIS OBISPO
CITY COUNCIL
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The San Luis Obispo City Council invites all interested persons to attend a public hearing on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. Meetings may be viewed remotely on Government Access Channel 20 or streamed live from the City’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/ CityofSanLuisObispo. Public comment, prior to the start of the meeting, may be submitted in writing via U.S. Mail delivered to the City Clerk’s office at 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 or by email to emailcouncil@slocity.org.
PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS:
• The City Council will consider approving a Historic Property Preservation Agreement between the City and the owner of the Snyder House at 1406 Morro Street (Application No. HIST-0386-2024). Consideration of eligibility for historic listing is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under the general rule described in CEQA Guidelines §15061(b)(3), as it is does not have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.
For more information, contact Walter Oetzell, Assistant Planner, for the City’s Community Development Department at (805) 781-7593 or by email, woetzell@slocity.org.
• The City Council will receive and file the San Luis Obispo Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) 2023-24 Annual Report, as recommended by the SLO TBID Board, and consider the adoption of a resolution of intent to levy and collect TBID assessments in fiscal year 2024-25 at the same rate (2%) as 2023-24.
For more information, contact Jacqui Clark-Charlesworth, Tourism & Community Promotions Manager, for the City’s Administration Department at (805) 781-7216 or by email, jclark@slocity.org.
The City Council may also discuss other hearings or business items before or after the items listed above. If you challenge the proposed project in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing. Council Agenda Reports for this meeting will be available for review one week in advance of the meeting date 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 City Clerk’s Office at (805) 781-7114 for more information. The City Council meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and live streaming on the City’s YouTube channel www.youtube.com/ CityofSanLuisObispo. September 19, 2024
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 676
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Atascadero City Council has adopted Ordinance No. 676. The primary provisions of the Ordinance are as follows:
This Ordinance adds Title 5, Chapter 17 to the Atascadero Municipal Code regulating shopping carts.
The Ordinance was passed and adopted by the City Council on September 10, 2024, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Council Members Bourbeau, Dariz, Funk, and Mayor Moreno.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Council Member Newsom.
A complete copy of the Ordinance is on file in the City Clerk’s Office, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, California
DATED: September 11, 2024
S/ Lare K. Christensen, City Clerk
PUBLISH: September 19, 2024
CITY OF PISMO BEACH STATE OF CALIFORNIA NOTICE TO BIDDERS
SEALED BIDS will be received at the office of the City Clerk, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, California, until 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, October 17, 2024 as determined by www.time.gov for performing work as follows:
PISMO BEACH WASTEWATER TREATEMENT PLANT
CLARIFIERS EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT
Project Plans and Specifications are available at the Engineering Division office located at 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, CA, 93449. A non-refundable fee of $39.00 per set will be charged. Electronic Plans and Specifications are available via email at no charge. Questions will be accepted in writing up to 96 hours before bid closing by emailing Daniel Contreras at dcontreras@ pismobeach.org. Questions regarding bid procedure or other non-technical questions can be asked by emailing Erin Olsen at eolsen@pismobeach.org or by calling (805) 773-4656.
A mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. Please meet promptly at 550 Frady Lane, Pismo Beach, Ca 93449. Bidders that do not attend this mandatory pre-bid meeting shall be disqualified from bidding on this Project.
Before submitting bids, Contractors shall be licensed in accordance with the Laws of the State of California. Accordingly, the successful Bidder shall possess a Class A, General Engineering, Contractor’s License at the time this contract is awarded.
ERICA INDERLIED, CITY CLERK
September 19, 2024
ADMINISTRATIVE PERMIT PUBLIC HEARING
The City of San Luis Obispo’s Zoning Hearing Officer will hold a public hearing at 2:30 p.m. or later on Monday, September 30, 2024 in Conference Room 1, at 919 Palm Street, to consider the following:
1. 398 San Miguel. VAR-0435-2024; Requests for: approval of addition to a nonconforming single-story garage structure situated in the northern portion of the front setback; a variance for to allow a replacement garage with a zero foot street yard setback where 20-feet is the standard requirement; and an exception to the height standards for fences, walls, and hedges to allow a 16-foot wide portion of a five-foot tall wall within the front setback ,where the height limit ranges between four and six feet (categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review); R-1 Zone; Michelle and Steven Marx, applicants (Walter Oetzell)
PLEASE NOTE: Any court challenge to the actions taken on this public hearing item may be limited to considering only those issues raised at the public hearing described in this notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City of San Luis Obispo at, or prior to, the public hearing.
September 19, 2024
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS
Application to make minor changes to the property at the address listed below has been received by the City.
1. 100 Madonna. DIR-0547-2024; A Temporary Use Permit to allow a non-profit special event (Grace Central Coast Fall Kick-Off) at Madonna Meadows. The event is scheduled to take place on October 6th, 2024 between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm (setup beginning at 7:00 am, cleanup concluding at 5:00 pm), with an expected attendance of 1,000 to 2,000 persons (categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review).; C/OS-20 and C-T-S Zones; Grace Central Coast, applicant. (Walter Oetzell)
The Community Development Director will either approve or deny this application no sooner than September 30, 2024
The Director’s decision may be appealed and must be filed with the appropriate appeal fee within 10 days of the Director’s action. For more information, contact the City of San Luis Obispo Community Development Department, 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, stop by Monday and Wednesday between 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday between 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or call (805) 781-7170, weekdays, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. September 19, 2024
DATE: Tuesday, October 1, 2024 TIME: 6:00 p.m.
PLACE: City of Atascadero Council Chambers 6500 Palma Avenue Atascadero, CA 93422
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Atascadero will hold a PUBLIC HEARING at the time and place indicated above to consider the proposed project:
1. Amendment to the Emergency Shelter Overlay Zone text, the El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) Operations and Management Plan, and the Conditional Use Permit (PLN 2014-1492/CUP 2014-0279) to increase the number of client serving beds from 60 to 90, increase the number of meal program participants from 80 to 100, and increase the shower program operation to 15 hours per week at 6370 Atascadero Avenue on APN 030-341-013. This amendment would facilitate the construction of a 7,600 sf 2-story addition to the existing shelter facility. The amendments are covered by the general rule exemption (CEQA Section 15061(3)(b)) and categorical exemption Class 23 (CEQA Section 15323). (AMND24-0060 & ZCH24-0061).
INTERESTED INDIVIDUALS are invited to participate and will be given an opportunity to speak in favor or opposition to the above-proposed project. To provide written public comment, please email comments to pc-comments@ atascadero.org by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Comments will be forwarded to the Planning Commission and made part of the administrative record. If a comment is received after the deadline for submission but before the close of the meeting, the comment will still be included as part of the record of the meeting. Please note, email comments will not be read into the record. Information regarding the hearing is filed in the Community Development Department. If you have any questions, please call Planning Services or visit the office at 6500 Palma Ave., by appointment only, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. All documents related to the project will be available for review on the City’s website 72 hours prior to the public hearing at http://www.atascadero.org/agendas.
DATED: September 16, 2024
S/ P Dunsmore, Community Development Director
PUBLISH: September 19, 2024
NOTICE OF CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Paso Robles City Council will hold a Public Hearing to consider the following project: Project Description: Development of a vacant lot in the downtown of Paso Robles with a mixed-use building including 3,346 square feet of commercial space including a winetasting room, 16 hotel rooms, and 8 residential apartments. The hearing will include introduction of an ordinance to rezone the property to include the Resort/Lodging Overlay District. The project includes a state affordable housing density bonus including concessions (RZN2301, PD22-11, CUP23-07, P22-0076)
Applicant: George Garcia for Tobin James Location: 1745 Spring Street (APN 008-283-012) CEQA Determination: In compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an initial study and mitigated negative declaration (SCH 2024070401) were prepared for the project and were circulated between July 11, 2024 and August 9, 2024. There is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment with the incorporation of mitigation measures.
Hearing Date: The City Council will hold a Public Hearing on October 1, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at the Council Chamber/Library Conference Center, 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446. The Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 to consider the project and on a 6-0 vote recommended that the City Council adopt the mitigated negative declaration and approve RZN23-01, PD22-11, CUP23-07 (collectively P22-0076).
The public has the option to attend the meeting in person or to participate remotely. To participate remotely, residents can livestream the meeting at www.prcity.com/youtube, and call (805)865-7276 to provide live public comment via telephone. The phone line will open just prior to the start of the meeting.
Written public comments can be submitted via email to cityclerk@ prcity.com or US Mail (submit early) to the City Clerk, 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446 provided that the comments are received prior to the time of the public hearing. Comments received prior to 12:00 noon on the day of the meeting will be posted as an addendum to the agenda. If submitting written comments, please note the agenda item by number or name. Comments on the proposed application must be received prior to the time of the hearing to be considered by the City Council. Challenge to the application in court will be limited to issues raised at the public hearings or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.
Copies of the project staff report will be available for review on the City’s website (www.prcity.com/meetings) on the Friday preceding the hearing. If you have any questions, please contact the Community Development Department at (805) 237-3970. September 19, 2024
to CZLUO Section 23.04.162h., authorizing a modification to allow compact spaces in a parking lot with 7 spaces and to allow 4 of the parking spaces to be compact as otherwise required pursuant to 23.04.162a. The project will result in the disturbance of the entire 7,514 square-foot parcel. The proposed project is within the Commercial Retail land use category and is located on South Ocean Avenue (APN: 064-1 19-036) in the community of Cayucos. The project is in the Coastal Zone and the Estero Planning Area.
Also to be considered is the determination that this project is exempt from environmental review under CEQA based on the General Rule or Common Sense Exemption.
County File Number: C-DRC2023-00044
Supervisorial District: District 2
Assessor Parcel Number(s): 064-1 19-036
Date Accepted: 2/29/2024
WHERE Virtual meeting via Zoom platform.
Instructions on how to view and participate in the meeting remotely and provide public comment will be included in the published meeting Agenda and are posted on the Department’s webpage at: Planning Department Hearing - County of San Luis Obispo (ca.gov)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A copy of the staff report will be made available on the Planning Department website at www.sloplanning.org. You may also contact Andy Knighton, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-781-5600.
TO REQUEST A PUBLIC HEARING
This matter is tentatively scheduled to appear on the consent agenda, which means that it and any other items on the consent agenda can be acted upon by the hearing officer with a single motion. An applicant or interested party may request a public hearing on this matter. To do so, send a letter to this office at the address below or send an email to pdh@co.sIo.ca.us by 9/27/2024 at 4:30 PM. The letter or email must include the language “I would like to request a hearing on
C-DRC2023-00044.”
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.
COASTAL APPEALABLE
If the County approves this project, that action may be eligible for appeal to the California Coastal Commission. An applicant or aggrieved party may appeal to the Coastal Commission only after all possible local appeals have been exhausted pursuant to Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance Section 23.01.043(b). Local appeals must be filed using the required Planning Department form as provided by Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance Section 23.01.042(a)(1).
Ysabel Eighmy, Secretary Planning Department Hearing September 19, 2024 COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING
NOTICE OF TENTATIVE ACTION /PUBLIC HEARING
WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Department Hearing
WHEN Friday, October 4, 2024 at 9:00 AM: All items are advertised for 9:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of
and remodeled front entry porchto an existing approximately 2,173 square-foot, two-story single-family residence, totaling 2,381 square-feet, with an attached 660 square-foot garage on an existing approximately 12,600 square-foot lot. The project also includes construction of a new secondary
be considered is the determination that this project is categorically exempt from environmental review under CEQA. County File Number: C-DRC2024-00008 Supervisorial District: District 2 Assessor Parcel Number(s): 074-459-005
Date Accepted: 5/16/2024
WHERE Virtual meeting via Zoom platform.
Instructions on how to view and participate in the meeting remotely and provide public comment will be included in the published meeting Agenda and are posted on the Department’s webpage at: Planning Department Hearing - County of San Luis Obispo (ca.gov)
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 Dane Mueller, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-781-5600.
TO REQUEST A PUBLIC HEARING
This matter is tentatively scheduled to appear on the consent agenda, which means that it and any other items on the consent agenda can be acted upon by the hearing officer with a single motion. An applicant or interested party may request a public hearing on this matter. To do so, send a letter to this office at the address below or send an email to pdh@co.sIo.ca.us by 9/27/2024 at 4:30 PM. The letter or email must include the language “I would like to request a hearing on C-DRC2024-00008.”
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.
COASTAL APPEALABLE
If the County approves this project, that action may be eligible for appeal to the California Coastal Commission. An applicant or aggrieved party may appeal to the Coastal Commission only after all possible local appeals have been exhausted pursuant to Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance Section 23.01.043(b). Local appeals must be filed using the required Planning Department form as provided by Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance Section 23.01.042(a)(1).
Ysabel Eighmy, Secretary Planning Department Hearing September 19, 2024
COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING
NOTICE OF TENTATIVE ACTION /PUBLIC HEARING
WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Department Hearing
WHEN Friday, October 4, 2024 at 9:00 AM: All items are advertised for 9:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of Planning & Building at
WHAT A request by Rudy Molina (N-DRC2024-00005) for a Minor Use Permit to allow for a greater than 1,000 square foot detached workshop/studio as required by County Code Section 22.30.410.C standards to allow an as-built existing 3,200 square foot detached workshop/studio. The proposed project is within the Agriculture land use category and is located at 5609 Huasna Rd., approximately 5.5 miles east of the city of Arroyo Grande. The site is located within the South County Sub Area of the Huasna-Lopez Sub Area.
Also, to be considered is the determination that this project is categorically exempt from environmental review under CEQA.
County File Number: N-DRC2024-00005
Supervisorial District: District 4
Assessor Parcel Number(s): 048-201-009, -013
Date Accepted: 5/1/2024
WHERE Virtual meeting via Zoom platform.
Instructions on how to view and participate in the meeting remotely and provide public comment will be included in the published meeting Agenda and are posted on the Department’s webpage at: Planning Department Hearing - County of San Luis Obispo (ca.gov)
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 Holly Phipps, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-781-5600.
TO REQUEST A PUBLIC HEARING
This matter is tentatively scheduled to appear on the consent agenda, which means that it and any other items on the consent agenda can be acted upon by the hearing officer with a single motion. An applicant or interested party may request a public hearing on this matter. To do so, send a letter to this office at the address below or send an email to pdh@co.sIo.ca.us by 9/27/2024 at 4:30 PM. The letter or email must include the language “I would like to request a hearing on N-DRC2024-000005.”
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 Department Hearing September 19, 2024
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING NOTICE OF TENTATIVE ACTION/ PUBLIC HEARING
WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Department Hearing
WHEN Friday, October 4, 2024 at 9:00 AM: All items are advertised for 9:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of Planning & Building at
WHAT
A request by Edgar Torres (N-DRC2023-00034) for a Minor Use
Permit to allow the construction of a 4,000 square-foot barrel and case good storage building to support an existing winery and tasting room facility. The applicant is requesting a modification to setback standards in Section 22.30.070 to allow a 35-foot setback from the eastern property line setback instead of the ordinance standard of 100 feet for wine processing buildings. The project will result in the disturbance of approximately 12,600 square-feet on an approximate 8-acre parcel. The proposed project is within the Agriculture land use category and is located at 3860 Peachy Canyon Road approximately 3 miles west of the City of Paso Robles. The project site is in the Adelaida Sub Area of the North County Planning Area. Also to be considered is the determination that this project is categorically exempt from environmental review under CEQA.
County File Number: N-DRC2023-00034
Supervisorial District: District 1
Assessor Parcel Number(s): 026-292-001
Date Accepted: 4/19/2024
WHERE Virtual meeting via Zoom platform.
Instructions on how to view and participate in the meeting remotely and provide public comment will be included in the published meeting Agenda and are posted on the Department’s webpage at: Planning Department Hearing - County of San Luis Obispo (ca.gov)
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 Jessica Macrae, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-781-5600.
TO REQUEST A PUBLIC HEARING
This matter is tentatively scheduled to appear on the consent agenda, which means that it and any other items on the consent agenda can be acted upon by the hearing officer with a single motion. An applicant or interested party may request a public hearing on this matter. To do so, send a letter to this office at the address below or send an email to pdh@co.sIo.ca.us by 9/27/2024 at 4:30 PM. The letter or email must include the language “I would like to request a hearing on N-DRC2023-00034.”
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 Department Hearing September 19, 2024
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING SUBDIVISION REVIEW BOARD
WHO County of San Luis Obispo Subdivision Review Board
WHEN Monday, October 7, 2024, at 9:00 AM: All items are advertised for 9:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of Planning & Building at 805-781-5600.
WHAT A request by Clark and Jody Boulton for a first-time extension for a Vesting Tentative Parcel Map (SUB2017-00039 / CO160227) to subdivide an existing undeveloped 10.01-acre parcel into two approximately 5-acre parcels for the purpose of sale and/or development. Each resulting parcel will have a designated building envelope which could support a primary residence, accessory structures and supporting appurtenances. Both parcels will be served by an existing shared well. Improvements include the construction of a shared driveway and a 24-foot-wide access road serving a single building site on each parcel. The project will result in a total disturbance area of approximately three and onehalf (<3.5) acres, including 4,500 cubic yards (cy) of cut and fill. The project includes a request for an adjustment to the County’s Title 21 Real Property Division, design criteria, to allow for an exceedance of the maximum ratio of parcel depth to parcel width. The project site is located at 1688 Old Oak Park Road, approximately 1.5 miles north of the City of Arroyo Grande within the Residential Rural land use category. The site is in the San Luis Bay Inland Sub Area South of the South County Planning Area.
County File Number: N-EXT2024-00029
Supervisorial District: District 3
Assessor Parcel Number(s): 044-371-067
Date Accepted: 8/21/2024
WHERE
The hearing will be held in Katcho Achadjian Government Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers 1055 Monterey Street, Room #D170, 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.
Nicole Turner, Secretary Subdivision Review Board September 19, 2024
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING SUBDIVISION REVIEW BOARD
WHO
County of San Luis Obispo Subdivision Review Board
WHEN Monday, October 7, 2024, at 9:00 AM: All items are advertised for 9:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of Planning & Building at 805-781-5600.
WHAT
A request by Paul Vanderheyden and Lucia Cleveland for a second one-year time-extension to a previously approved a Vesting Tentative Parcel Map (SUB2016-00010/CO 13-0006) to subdivide an existing 21.6-acre parcel into two parcels of 10.0 and 11.6 acres each for the purpose of sale and/or development. The project will result in the disturbance of up to 1.2 acres of the undeveloped parcel depending on the size and location of future development. The proposed project is within the Residential Rural land use category and is located approximately 500 feet east of the eastern terminus of Tiburon Way, on the eastern boundary of the City of San Luis Obispo. The site is in the San Luis Obispo Sub-area of the San Luis Obispo Planning Area.
A Mitigated Negative Declaration was issued on June 20, 2019, for this project. The Mitigated Negative Declaration was adopted by the Subdivision Review Board on October 7, 2019. Mitigation measures were proposed to address Aesthetics, Air Quality, Biological Resources, Geology/Soils, Public Services/Utilities, Recreation, Transportation/Circulation, Water/Hydrology, and Land Use and are included as conditions of approval.
County File Number: N-EXT2024-00006
Supervisorial District: District 3
Assessor Parcel Number(s): 076-531-009
Date Accepted: 3/27/2024
WHERE
The hearing will be held in the Katcho Achadjian Government Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1055 Monterey Street, Room #D170, 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 Jessica Macrae, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-781-5600.
Nicole Turner, Secretary Subdivision Review Board September 19, 2024
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. on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 for Bid #327 Sinsheimer Elementary School Phase 1 Modernization Project.
A mandatory pre-bid informational meeting will be held on Monday, September 30, 2024 at 7:00:00 a.m. The meeting will begin in front of the office at the Sinsheimer Elementary School, 2755 August Street, San Luis Obispo, California. 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 #327 may be directed in writing only to the Facilities Analyst II, Kelly Lee, at klee@slcusd.org, and must be submitted no later than 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 2, 2024.
Project documents are available at the San Luis Coastal Online Planroom at www.asapreprographics. com. Bidder must obtain a set of Bid and Contract Documents prior to bid opening or their bid will be rejected by the District as non-responsive.
Owner, or its designee, has determined that certain materials, services, products or things designated by specific brand or trade name shall not be subject to Public Contract Code section 3400(a) in order to match other materials, services, products or things in use on a particular Owner public improvement either completed or in the course of completion and in order to obtain a necessary item that is only available from one source. These specific materials, services, products or things are identified in San Luis Coastal Unified School District Standard Products list that was board approved on April 5, 2016.
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 II San Luis Coastal Unified School District September 19, 26, 2024
NOTICE: SEIZURE OF PROPERTY AND INITIATION OF NONJUDICIAL FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS PER HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 11488.4(J) TO: ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
$3,996.00 IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY Notice is hereby given that on April 25, 2024, the abovedescribed property was seized at or near 204 Moore Lane, Arroyo Grande, CA, by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, in connection with cannabis violations, to wit, section(s) 11351 and 11352 of the California Health and Safety Code. The estimated/appraised value of the property is $3,996.00.
Pursuant to section 11488.4(j) of the California Health and Safety Code, you must file a verified claim stating your interest in the property with the Superior Court’s Civil Division, Room 385, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California 93408. Claim forms are available from the Clerk of the above court and also online at https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/mc200.pdf.
Furthermore, an endorsed copy of the verified claim must also be served on the District Attorney, Asset Forfeiture Unit, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, 4th Floor, San Luis Obispo, California 93408, within 30 days of filing the claim with the Superior Court’s Civil Division. Both the District Attorney’s Office and the Interested Party filing the claim are entitled to conduct reciprocal requests for discovery in preparation for a hearing. The provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure shall apply to the proceedings unless inconsistent with the provisions or procedures set forth in the Health and Safety Code (Section 11488.5(c)(3)). The Interested Party in entitled to legal representation at a hearing, although not one appointed at public expense, and has the right to present evidence and witnesses, and to cross-examine plaintiff’s witnesses, but there is no right to avoid testifying at a civil hearing.
The failure to timely file and secure a verified claim stating an interest in the property in the Superior Court will result in the property being declared or ordered forfeited to the State of California and distributed pursuant to the provisions of Health and Safety Code section 11489 without further notice or hearing.
DATED: September 16, 2024
DAN DOW District Attorney
Kenneth Jorgensen Deputy District Attorney September 19, 26, October 3, 2024
HIGHWAY 101/CHORRO ART
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the City of San Luis Obispo will receive bids by mail for the “HIGHWAY 101/CHORRO ART FENCE LIGHTING, Spec. No. 2000036-04” at the Public Works Administration Office located at 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 until THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2024, at 11:00 AM., when they will be publicly opened.
Bids received after said time will not be considered. Bids shall be submitted in a sealed envelope plainly marked with the project title, contractor name, address, and specification number.
The Contractor must possess a valid Class C-10 Contractor’s License at the time of the bid opening. Every bid must be accompanied by a certified check/cashier’s check or bidder’s bond for 10% of the bid amount, payable to the City of San Luis Obispo.
Download FREE at the City’s website: www.SloCity.orgBid packages under Bids & Proposals. Questions may be addressed to Emma Laplante, Project Manager, at 805-7817199 or elaplant@slocity.org.
September 19, 2024
paving; striping; curb ramp reconstructions; temporary traffic control; and related items of work as shown on the Plans, as specified in the Standard Specifications and these Special Provisions, and as directed by the Engineer. The Project estimated construction cost is $4.5M. Contract time is established as 20
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., Friday, October 4, 2024, for Bid #328: Measure C-22: C.L. Smith Elementary and Sinsheimer Elementary Field Renovation Projects
A mandatory pre-bid informational meeting will be held on Monday, September 23, 2024 at 7:00:00 a.m. The meeting will begin at the Sinsheimer Elementary School located at 2755 Augusta Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA followed by a mandatory pre-bid informational meeting held at the C.L. Smith Elementary School located at 1375 Balboa Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA. Please meet in front of the main school offices. Failure to attend both meetings 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 located at 937 Southwood Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. Questions regarding Bid #328 may be directed in writing only to the Facilities Analyst II, Kelly Lee, at klee@slcusd.org, and must be submitted no later than 02:00 p.m., Thursday, September 26, 2024
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 II San Luis Coastal Unified School District
Sepetember 12, 19, 2024
NOTICE TO BIDDERS Bid Submission CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE, CALIFORNIA (Herein referred to as the City)
in these areas at the same time. Additionally, Contractor shall note that work on Station Way must be completed by March 2025. There will be a non-mandatory pre-bid meeting on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 2:00 P.M at the City of Arroyo Grande Public Works Administration building located at 1375 Ash Street, Arroyo Grande, California. Bidder may contact the City Engineer at (805) 473-5444 with any questions.
FUNDING
A portion of this project is federally funded with Community Development Block Grant funds. Contractor will need to demonstrate SAM.gov listing for the City to be eligible for these federal funds. In addition, the Contractor will be required to submit certification regarding lobbying for contracts, grants, loans and cooperative agreements and abide by Federal Regulations regarding the Copeland Anti-kickback Act.
PREVAILING WAGES
In accordance with the provisions of California Labor Code Sections 1770,1773, 1773.1, 1773.6 and 1773.7 as amended, the Director of the Department of Industrial Relations has determined the general prevailing rate of per diem wages in accordance with the standards set forth in Section 1773 for the locality where the work is to be performed. The General Prevailing Wage Rate Determinations are available at: http://www.dir.ca.gov/DLSR/PWD/index.htm
A copy of said wage rates is on file at the office of the City. Future effective wage rates will be on file with the Department of Industrial Relations, and are referenced but not printed in said publication. The new wage rates shall become effective on the day following the expiration date of the current determinations and apply to the Contract in the same manner as if they had been included or referenced in the Contract. It shall be mandatory upon Contractor to whom the work is awarded and upon any subcontractor under Contractor to pay not less than said specified rates to all workmen employed by them in the execution of the work. Contractor to provide the prevailing wage determination used for construction.
The current General Decision of wage determinations issued by the United States Department of Labor is set forth at the following website address: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/governmentcontracts/prevailing-wage-resource-book/db-wagedeterminations
If there is a difference between the prevailing wage rate determined by the Department of Labor and the prevailing wage rate predetermined by the Director of Industrial Relations for similar classifications of labor, Contractor and its subcontractors shall pay not less than the higher prevailing wage rate. The Agency will not accept lower State prevailing wage rates not specifically included in the Federal prevailing wage determinations. This includes “helper” (or other classifications based on hours of experience) or any other classification not appearing in the Federal prevailing wage determinations. Where Federal prevailing wage determinations do not contain the State prevailing wage rate determination otherwise available for use by Contractor and subcontractors, Contractor and subcontractors shall pay not less than the Federal prevailing wage rate which most closely approximates the duties of the employee(s) in question.
The prevailing wage rate for any classification not listed by the Department of Labor or the Director of Industrial Relations, but which may be required to execute the Contract, shall be in accord with specified rates for similar or comparable classifications or for those performing similar or comparable duties, within the Agency’s determinations.
Contractor Registration with the Department of Industrial Relations
In accordance with California Labor Code Section 1725.5, contractors and subcontractors (as defined by California Labor Code Section 1722.1) bidding on Public Works contracts in California shall be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations prior to bidding. Failure to provide proof of Contractor’s registration as part of the Bid shall deem the Bid as non-responsive and will, therefore, be rejected by the City.
Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement
In accordance with the requirements of Labor Code Section 1771.4(a)(1), Bidders are hereby notified that this project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations.
QUALIFICATIONS
In accordance with the provisions of California Public Contract Code Section 3300, the City has determined that the Contractor shall possess a valid Class A license at the time of bid issuance. Failure to possess the specified license will render the Bid as non-responsive and shall act as a bar to the award of the Contract to any bidder not possessing said license at the time of award. In the event of a dispute over the classification of the license required, the opinion of the Contractor’s State License Board shall prevail.
Bidder shall have experience constructing projects similar to the work specified for this project. Bidder shall provide three (3) similar reference projects completed as either the prime or subcontractor. One (1) of the three (3) reference projects shall have been completed under contract with a City, County, State, or Federal Government agency as the prime contractor.
All referenced projects shall be completed within the last five (5) years from this project’s bid opening date.
All referenced projects shall be for pavement.
Failure to provide reference projects as specified in this section and as required on the qualification form may be cause to reject a bid as being non-responsive.
It is the City’s intent to award the contract to the lowest responsive bid submitted by a responsible bidder. If, in the bidder’s opinion, the contract has been or may be improperly awarded, the bidder may protest the contract award.
Protests shall be filed no later than five (5) working days after either:
4. bid opening date
5. notification of rejected bid.
Protest shall be in writing and received by the Project Manager located at: 1375 Ash Street Arroyo Grande, CA 93420.
Valid protests shall contain the following information: 6. the reasons for the protest
7. any supporting documentation
8. the ruling expected by the City to remedy the protest.
Any protest not containing all required information will be deemed invalid and rejected.
The City will consider additional documentation or other supporting information regarding the protest if submitted in compliance with the specified time limits.
Anything submitted after the specified time limit will be rejected and will not be considered.
The Director of Public Works or Designee may request additional information to be submitted within three (3) days of the request, unless otherwise specified, and will notify the protester of ruling within ten (10) days of determination.
Pursuant to the Public Records Act (Government Code, § 6250, et seq.), the City will make public records available upon request.
AWARD
The City intends to award a contract to the responsive and responsible bidder with the lowest bid price. All bids submitted shall be in accordance with the provisions of the contract documents. The City specifically reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to reject any or all bids, to re-bid, or to waive inconsequential defects in bidding not involving time, price, or quality of the work. The City may waive any minor irregularities in the bids. Any bid may be withdrawn prior to bid opening but not afterward.
As a condition to executing a contract with the City, two (2) bonds, each equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the total contract price are required in compliance with Section 3-1.05 of the Standard Specifications. Deposit of Securities in Lieu of Retainage. Required retainage is 5% of the contract price. 5% shall be retained from each progress payment. 35 days following recordation of the Notice of Completion with the County of San Luis Obispo, retained funds shall be paid to the Contractor if no liens or filed against project.
The Contractor may elect to receive one hundred percent (100%) of payment due under the Contract Documents from time to time, without retention of any portion of the payment by the City, by depositing securities of equivalent value with the City in accordance with the provisions of Section 22300 of the California Public Contract Code. Such securities, if deposited by the Contractor, will be valued by the City, whose decision on the valuation of the securities will be final. Securities eligible for investment under this provision will be limited to those listed in Section 16430 of the California Government Code or bank or savings and loan certificates of deposit.
Agreement to Assign. In accordance with Section 4552 of the California Government Code, the bidder shall conform to the following requirements: In submitting a bid to a public purchasing body, the bidder offers and agrees that if the bid is accepted, it will assign to the purchasing body all rights, title, and interest in and to all causes of action it may have under Section 4 of the Clayton Act 15 U.S.C. 15, or under the Cartwright Act, Chapter 2. ACCOMMODATION If the bidder needs any accommodations to participate in the bid process, they may contact the Public Works Department at (805) 473-5485. Requests should be made as soon as possible to allow time for accommodation.
Jessica Matson, City Clerk Publish 2x The New Times, Thursday, September 12, 2024, and Thursday, September 19, 2024
PUBLISHED DELINQUENT LIST (Revenue and Taxation Code Section 3371)
I, James W. Hamilton, CPA, San Luis Obispo County Auditor-Controller-Treasurer-Tax Collector, State of California, certify that:
The real properties listed below were declared to be in tax-default at 12:01 a.m. on July 1, 2021, by operation of law. The listed real property assessments are only those for which a copy of the latest delinquent reminder letter was returned as undeliverable by the United States Postal Service. The declaration of default was due to nonpayment of the total amount due for the taxes, assessments and other charges levied in 20 20/21 which were a lien on the listed real property. The name of the assessee, the assessment number, which describes the property, and the total that is due on or before September 30, 2024, is listed.
Tax-defaulted real property may be redeemed by payment of all unpaid taxes and assessments, together with additional penalties and fees as prescribed by law, or it may be redeemed under an installment plan. On July 1, 2026, if the taxes remain unpaid, or there is not an active Annual Installment Plan of Redemption, the property will become subject to tax sale.
All information concerning redemption of tax -defaulted property, including the initiation of an installment plan, will be furnished upon request by the office of James W. Hamilton, CPA, San Luis Obispo County AuditorController-Treasurer-Tax Collector, at 1055 Monterey St., Rm. D-290, San Luis Obispo, California, 93408. Telephone inquiries may be directed to (805) 781-5836. Information on prior year tax amounts can also be found on the Tax Collector’s website at: www.slocountytax.org.
ASSESSMENT NUMBERING SYSTEM EXPLANATION
The assessment number refers to the Assessor's map book, the map page, the block on the map (if applicable), and to the individual parcel number on the map page or in the block.
Assessment numbers beginning with “902” indicate a timeshare property. The Assessor's parcel maps and further explanation of the assessment numbering system are available in the Assessor's Office, 1055 Monterey St., Rm. D-360, San Luis Obispo, California, 93408
/s/ JAMES W. HAMILTON, CPA San Luis Obispo County Auditor-Controller-Treasurer-Tax
FRIDAY, NOV.22 2024
@SLO BREW ROCK 855 AEROVISTA PLACE, SLO
See LIVE performances from winning artists for each genre. Hear winning songs from Country/ Americana/Folk , Rock/Alternative, R&B/Blues , Hip-Hop/Rap, and Open categories. The coveted Newtie award will be presented to the top spot along with awards for each genre.
We’ll also announce this years Local Legend Award that is presented to an individual who has dedicated their time, talent, and effort to benefit the local music scene.
Also, get your chance to win an Ernie Ball guitar by purchasing raffle tickets online or at the event.
ELBOW DROP SUNDAY
SADIE JASPER
2023 NEW TIMES MUSIC AWARD WINNERS
JOSH ROSENBLUM
DAVE TATE
MAX MACLAURY
SCAN TO GET TICKETS
Free Will Astrology by Rob Brezsny
Homework: What can you do to boost your ability to have fun? Newsletter.freewillastrology.com
ARIES
(March 21-April 19): Few of the vegetables grown in the 21st century are in their original wild form. Many are the result of crossbreeding carried out by humans. The intention is to increase the nutritional value of the food, boost its yield, improve its resistance to insect predators, and help it survive weather extremes. I invite you to apply the metaphor of crossbreeding to your life in the coming months. You will place yourself in maximum alignment with cosmic rhythms if you conjure up new blends. So be a mix master, Aries. Favor amalgamations and collaborations. Transform jumbles and hodgepodges into graceful composites. Make “alloy” and “hybrid” your words of power.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20): “All I ask is the chance to prove that money can’t make me happy,” quipped comedian Spike Milligan. I propose we make that your running joke for the next eight months. If there was ever a time when you could get rich more quickly, it would be between now and mid-2025. And the chances of that happening may be enhanced considerably if you optimize your relationship with work. What can you do now to help ensure you will be working at a well-paying job you like for years to come?
GEMINI
(May 21-June 20): The World Health Organization says that 3.5 billion people in the world don’t have access to safe toilets; 2.2 billion live without safe drinking water; 2 billion don’t have facilities in their homes to wash their hands with soap and water. But it’s almost certain that you don’t suffer from these basic privations. Most likely, you get all the water you require to be secure and healthy. You have what you need to cook food and make drinks. You can take baths or showers whenever you want. You wash your clothes easily. Maybe you water a garden. I bring this to your attention because now is an excellent time to celebrate the water in your life. It’s also a favorable time to be extra fluid and flowing and juicy. Here’s a fun riddle for you: What could you do to make your inner life wetter and better lubricated?
CANCER
(June 21-July 22): Cancerian rapper and actor Jaden Smith has won a few mid-level awards and has been nominated for a Grammy. But I was surprised that he said, “I don’t think I’m as revolutionary as Galileo, but I don’t think I’m not as revolutionary as Galileo.” If I’m interpreting his sly brag correctly, Jaden is suggesting that maybe he is indeed pretty damn revolutionary. I’m thrilled he said it because I love to see you Cancerians overcome your natural inclination to be overly humble and self-effacing. It’s OK with me if you sometimes push too far. In the coming weeks, I am giving you a license to wander into the frontiers of braggadocio.
LEO
(July 23-Aug. 22): Research by psychologists at Queen’s University in Canada concluded that the average human has about 6,200 thoughts every day. Other studies suggest that 75 percent of our thoughts are negative, and 95 percent are repetitive. But here’s the good news, Leo: My astrological analysis suggests that the amount of your negative and repetitive thoughts could diminish in the coming weeks. You might even get those percentages down to 35 percent and 50 percent, respectively. Just imagine how refreshed you will feel. With all that rejuvenating energy coursing through your brain, you may generate positive, unique thoughts at an astounding rate. Take maximum advantage, please!
VIRGO
(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You have probably heard the platitude, “Be cautious about what you wish for. You might get it.” The implied warning is that if your big desires are fulfilled, your life may change in unpredictable ways that require major adjustments. That’s useful advice. However, I have often found that the “major adjustments” necessary are often interesting and healing—strenuous, perhaps, but ultimately enlivening. In my vision of your future, Virgo, the consequences of your completed goal will fit that description. You
will be mostly pleased with the adaptations you must undertake in response to your success.
LIBRA
(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The bird known as the gray-headed albatross makes long, continuous flights without touching down on the ground. I propose we nominate this robust traveler to be one of your inspirational animals in the coming months. I suspect that you, too, will be capable of prolonged, vigorous quests that unleash interesting changes in your life. I don’t necessarily mean your quests will involve literal long-distance travel. They may, but they might also take the form of vast and deep explorations of your inner terrain. Or maybe you will engage in bold efforts to investigate mysteries that will dramatically open your mind and heart.
SCORPIO
(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You are in a good position and frame of mind to go hunting for a novel problem or two. I’m half-joking, but I’m also very serious. I believe you are primed to track down interesting dilemmas that will bring out the best in you and attract the educational experiences you need. These provocative riddles will ensure that boring old riddles and paltry hassles won’t bother you. Bonus prediction: You are also likely to dream up an original new “sin” that will stir up lucky fun.
SAGITTARIUS
(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Your spinning and weaving abilities will be strong in the coming weeks. I predict that your knack for creating sturdy, beautiful webs will catch the resources and influences you require. Like a spider, you must simply prepare the scenarios to attract what you need, then patiently relax while it all comes to you. Refining the metaphor further, I will tell you that you have symbolic resemblances to the spiders known as cross orbweavers. They produce seven different kinds of silk, each useful in its own way—and in a sense, so can you. Your versatility will help you succeed in interesting ways.
CAPRICORN
(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn basketball player JamesOn Curry had the briefest career of anyone who ever played in America’s top professional league. Around his birthday in 2010, while a member of the Los Angeles Clippers, he appeared on the court for 3.9 seconds—and never returned. Such a short-lived effort is unusual for the Capricorn tribe—and will not characterize your destiny in the coming months. I predict you will generate an intense outpouring of your sign’s more typical expressions: durability, diligence, persistence, tenacity, resilience, determination, resolve, and steadfastness. Ready to get underway in earnest?
AQUARIUS
(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): It’s a good time for you to embrace the serpent, metaphorically speaking. You may even enjoy riding and playing with and learning from the serpent. The coming weeks will also be a favorable phase for you to kiss the wind and consult with the ancestors and wrestle with the most fascinating questions you know. So get a wild look in your eyes, dear Aquarius. Dare to shed mediocre pleasures so you can better pursue spectacular pleasures. Experiment only with smart gambles and high-integrity temptations, and flee the other kinds. PS: If you challenge the past to a duel (a prospect I approve of), be well-armed with the future.
PISCES
(Feb. 19-March 20): Panda bears don’t seem to enjoy having sex. The typical length of their mating encounters is from 30 seconds to two minutes. There was a dramatic exception to the rule in 2015, however. Lu Lu and Zhen Zhen, pandas living at the Sichuan Giant Panda Research Center in China, snuggled and embraced for 18 minutes. It was unprecedented. I encourage you, too, to break your previous records for tender cuddling and erotic play in the coming weeks. The longer and slower you go, the more likely it is you will generate spiritual epiphanies and awakenings. ∆
