New Times, Jan. 9, 2025

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Makea Difference, YourWay!

Lookingforameaningfulwaytogivebacktoyourcommunity?

SLOVillageinvitesvolunteersofallagestohelpourolder neighborssustainindependence,thriveathomeandstay connected.

WhyVolunteerwiththeSLOVillage?

FlexibleCommitment:Choosetheserviceopportunitiesthatfit yourpersonalschedule,personality,andskillset.

Editor’s note

WIttakesavillagetobuildcommunity; pleaseconsiderbeingapartofours! ContactustolearnmoreaboutSLOVillage: slovillage.or g 805.242.6440

ith 2025 just getting started, some people are choosing to do what they do best: volunteer. The work that volunteers do in their spare time accomplishes so much in the region. From dishing out food that serves houseless residents a meal to making sure students can cross the street safely before and after school, the range of ways to give back is limitless—and it takes a community. For our annual Volunteers issue, Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal writes about the community working to restore the Atascadero Printery [8], Staff Writer Libbey Hanson speaks to the volunteers who dish up daily hot meals for the less fortunate [10], and Staff Writer Samantha Herrera writes about the nonprofit preserving history in Nipomo [12]. Also this week, a court decision that reverses a California Coastal Commission decision on Cambria development [4], one local author’s foray in young adult literature [28], and a new brewery that’s set to open in SLO [34].

Camillia Lanham editor

Enjoy Waterfront Dining

Cambria landowners win land rights lawsuit against Coastal Commission

The California Coastal Commission’s legal interpretation of San Luis Obispo County’s local coastal plan sealed two Cambria landowners’ victory in a lawsuit over coastal development permits.

The commission’s decision to deny their permits and the ensuing litigation set back property owners Alireza Hadian’s and Ralph Bookout’s retirement home builds by two-plus years.

“When a powerful state agency without having authority, arbitrarily decides which paying water customer in Cambria is entitled to his water and which one isn’t, you know it is not right,” Hadian said. “I worked hard and saved enough to be able to build my home, but I have no money left and no income, so the impact has been devastating financially.”

Over 2019 and 2020, Hadian and Bookout applied for permits to construct single-family homes on their neighboring properties in Cambria. But a group of private residents and two coastal commissioners appealed the county-approved permits to the commission. Hearings in 2021 resulted in commission staff finding faults with SLO County’s local coastal plan’s conformance with its water provision and environmentally sensitive habitat area (ESHA) issues. Staff recommended that commissioners take jurisdiction over the permits and deny them, resulting in Hadian and Bookout filing a complaint for inverse condemnation against the agency in 2022.

Inverse condemnation can be a remedy for property owners when a government takes or damages a property for public use without initiating eminent domain proceedings, according to Cornell Law School. The property owner has to show that the government’s taking deprived the owner of the economic value of their property or that it failed to promote substantial government interests.

The Coastal Commission ignored its predecessors’ interpretation of the county’s local coastal plan, SLO Superior Court Judge Michael Kelley wrote in his December 2024 ruling.

“Although the commission identified six factors supporting the existence of a substantial issue, as it related to the five factors that were related to water resource issues, all of them hinged on the commission’s

Community donations keep Templeton Library out of the red

legal conclusion that the [local coastal plan] required the county to determine that there was an ‘adequate sustainable water supply’ for what the commission characterized as the new development contemplated by the [permits],” Kelley wrote. “This legal conclusion is not correct.”

Hadian and Bookout—represented pro bono by Pacific Legal Foundation—successfully argued that the homes proposed for land they’ve long owned didn’t qualify as new development.

Their parcels lie within a 382-acre tract, a portion of which later became a clustered subdivision bearing 18 lots including Hadian’s and Bookout’s properties. In 1969, former tract owner the Walter H. Leimert Company entered an agreement with the Cambria County Water District to supply water to the then unbroken land.

When the Leimert Company eventually pursued subdivision, then commission Assistant District Director David Loomis wrote in a 1995 letter that the boundary and water and sewer lines provided by the water district’s successor—Cambria

Community Services District (CCSD)—predate the local coastal plan.

In June 2000, the CCSD issued a will-serve letter to the tract documenting its readiness to serve water to the lots. By 2001, all potential residential lots, including Hadian’s and Bookout’s, were connected to the water system with meters and immediately began being billed for the services.

While concerns over limited water supply caused the county to impose a moratorium on new development in 2001, a change occurred in 2007. In its local coastal plan, the county formalized that longtime landowners who were paying water customers before the moratorium went into effect would be exempt from the buildout restriction.

“I wasn’t allowed, I was told by the commission, even though my water meter was already connected before the moratorium, and I was a ratepayer customer of the CCSD for the past 25 years!” Hadian said.

The landowners also pushed back on Coastal Commission allegations that construction would harm an environmentally sensitive Monterey pine forest. Appellants didn’t raise this issue, but the commissioners included it as a problem in their decision to deny the permits.

“[It] really meant that they were able to add additional potential grounds, kind of to shore up, potentially, the assertion of jurisdiction, but it also meant that Al and Ralph had no opportunity to respond because they were never on notice that that was a potential grounds of appeal,” Hadian and Bookout’s attorney Jeremy Talcott told New Times

The superior court ruling said that the potential environmental issues were addressed more than 25 years ago, requiring extensive mitigation measures like replacing felled pine trees at a 4:1 ratio. Ninety percent of the sprawling tract was also reserved to be open space.

Talcott is unsure if the Coastal Commission will appeal the ruling. Commission attorney Elizabeth St. John didn’t respond to New Times’ request for comment. With Talcott heading its coastal lands rights project, Pacific Legal Foundation frequently comes face-to-face with the commission. Currently, he’s working on two other cases with SLO County residents who are up against the commission.

For Hadian, the slow pace of the law proved to be costly. When the county first approved his permit in 2019, construction costs stood at $250 per square foot. Today, the same house costs $750 per square foot to build complete with an interest rate between 8 and 10 percent.

“My biggest challenge is to come up with the capital needed to build, but I am determined to start construction as soon as possible,” Hadian said. ∆ —Bulbul Rajagopal

The Templeton Library had its first year of balanced finances thanks to community members who donated more than $3,700 to keep it out of the red.

Templeton Community Library Association

President Melinda Reed said that by the end of the year, the association realized it only had a $3,600 budget deficit, so she took to the library’s Facebook page asking for help on New Year’s Eve.

“So, I put a post on Facebook and said … if 100 people gave us $36, that would put us over into the black,” Reed said, “and the response was amazing. My phone started buzzing.”

The Templeton Library, located on Main Street, is privately funded, meaning it doesn’t receive any funding from the county and solely relies on fundraising and donations to remain in operation.

Reed said she posted the request on Dec. 31 in the morning.

“I went off to the Paso Robles bonfire thinking that, you know, we’ve done pretty well with all of that, and I’d be happy with whatever amount that came in,” she said. “Then by the time I got home that night, my treasurer called me and said, ‘You’re over the top.’”

The library had received $3,741 in donations.

The current Templeton Library opened in 2022 and includes nine white farmhouse-styled modular

buildings in total—six are used for bookshelves and three for administration.

“It’s one of the most earthquake-proof buildings in SLO County, because we have a seismic gap that joins the two sections together,” Reed said. “It’s very safe and it’s very solid. … So, it’s a fabulous, wide open little building.”

According to Reed, the library has more than 1,500 library-card holders and more than 8,000 books, including a collection of every Caldecott winner since 1938.

“Everything in our library has either been donated to us or has been purchased with donated funds … and we’re really quite proud of that,

UNFLINCHING Represented by Pacific Legal Foundation, neighboring landowners Alireza Hadian (left) and Ralph Bookout (right) won a more than 2-year-old lawsuit challenging the California Coastal Commission’s denials of their county-approved coastal development permits.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PACIFIC LEGAL FOUNDATION

because it exceeds some of the smaller libraries in SLO County that are county funded,” she said.

The SLO County funded Templeton Library closed in 1979 after Proposition 13 reduced city and county property tax revenues. Four other county branches also closed at the time, but the county later reopened them. Templeton remained closed, according to the library’s website.

Since 2000, the library has been a work in progress after a local boy made opening a new library his Eagle Scout project. Working with SLO County, the plan was to partner 50/50 to fund a new library. The library association raised more than $1 million in funds, but COVID-19 left the county unable to provide the other half.

Reed said they didn’t let that discourage them, and the association decided to design and build the library itself.

To fund ongoing operations, the library hosts monthly flea markets in its parking lot where residents can pay for a booth to sell items, or they can just donate the items to the library to sell itself, Reed said.

“They give us all kinds of things,” Reed said, including art, houseware, silver and crystal, and sometimes computers. “So, we’re very grassroots and very much in tune with the community and what the needs and wants of the community are.”

Reed said it costs about $80,000 per year to operate the library—including the salary of its one paid staff member, maintaining its own catalog system, and running a summer reading program, among other events throughout the year.

“We’re small, but we’re mighty,” Reed said. “But it just shows that we’re trying to reflect what our community wants to read, and we feel that that’s really important.”

Opponents of offshore wind express mixed feelings about banning offshore oil drilling

Promoted as a win for environmentalists across the nation, President Joe Biden’s announcement that he will protect more than 625 million acres of federal waters from oil and gas drilling sounds like hypocrisy to some Central Coast residents.

On Jan. 6, Biden enacted the protection through an executive order, which U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) said he first introduced as a bill in 2017 to end offshore oil and gas exploration in California.

But REACT Alliance President Mandy Davis told New Times that this ban on offshore oil drilling is “incredibly hypocritical and very ironic.”

“It’s hypocritical because he is taking a strong stance on offshore drilling and the industrialization of the oceans and what that entails, yet on the other hand, he is taking a very strong stance on another form of industrialization of the oceans like offshore wind and the kind of incredible damage it does to the oceans, local economies, and the coastal environment,” she said.

New Times contacted the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club for comment but didn’t receive a response before deadline.

Carbajal said the executive order was necessary, pointing to the catastrophic effects that oil spills can have and have had on the Central Coast.

“We have the ’69 oil spill [in Santa Barbara], which was one of the most

significant spills in the country that led to the modern environmental movement and the establishment of Earth Day. We’ve had a number of other offshore and onshore, but especially offshore, drilling accidents that really hurt our ecosystem, our environment, and damaged our local economies,” Carbajal said. “Those oil spills had a major economic and environmental impact that is embedded and imprinted on the minds of the Central Coast residents.”

He’s introduced the offshore drilling bill in every term since he took office, but Carbajal said he amended the bill to include an offshore drilling ban across the entire West Coast.

Carbajal and 12 other members of Congress wrote to Biden requesting he take action on it before his term ended. It got his attention.

“This now includes the entire West Coast, parts of Alaska, the eastern part of the Gulf Coast, as well as the Atlantic Coast,” Carbajal said. “It’s permanent. It’s not embedded with a specific short-term time frame.”

Gov. Gavin Newsom said that thanks to President Biden, hundreds of miles of California’s iconic coastline are now fully protected from expanding offshore drilling, according to a statement provided to New Times by Daniel Villasenor.

“New offshore drilling has no place in California, and the president’s action strengthens our work to protect the coast,” Newsom said.

Morro Bay Commercial Fishermen’s Organization President Tom Hafer told New Times that this is a red herring that President-elect Donald Trump already said he will reverse.

“It will never happen whether there is a ban or not. There are too many protections/laws preventing it already,” he said via email about offshore oil and gas drilling in California. “Besides, the oil companies have said they are not interested in the oil off our coast.”

The bigger problem facing the Central Coast and the fishing community is offshore wind, Hafer said.

“I think drilling for oil is less of a threat to commercial fishing than thousands of acres of 1,000-foot tall offshore wind turbines tethered to the bottom with miles of steel chains, high voltage cables midwater between turbines and buried to shore, multiple oil rig-sized substations with once-through cooling, and multiple 300-foot service and operation vessels in our ocean and tourist two harbors,” he said.

Currently, three companies have leases about 20 miles from Morro Bay in federal waters: Invenergy California Offshore LLC; Atlas Offshore Wind LLC, previously known as Equinor Wind US LLC; and Golden State Wind LLC. No development has taken place yet.

Carbajal said he’s not worried about Trump undoing Biden’s action to protect federal waters.

Carbajal said Trump attempted to undo one of former President Barack Obama’s executive actions during his first term and the courts denied it.

“There is a precedent in the court. There has been no 12(a) executive action that has been overturned in any way, even though Trump tried to do it last time,” he said. “So, I think historically and legally, we are on good footing to ensure that he can’t do this as he has pledged.”

Board of Supervisors

welcomes Arnold’s successor, Heather Moreno

After three terms in office, San Luis Obispo County 5th District Supervisor Debbie Arnold

smoothly transitioned into retirement while former Atascadero Mayor Heather Moreno assumed the seat as her successor.

“It was a funny feeling coming in those doors for the last time after 12 years where we worked up here … on this dais several times a week,” Arnold announced at the Jan. 7 swearing-in ceremony. “It was the honor of my lifetime.”

The longtime conservative supervisor who represented parts of North County chose not to run for reelection. Arnold’s tenure was marked by her championing of fair water use from the Paso Robles Groundwater Basin; her approval of the controversial and allegedly gerrymandered Patten map; and most recently, being the deciding vote that prevented SLO County from taking the first step of the eminent domain process to bridge the Bob Jones Trail.

Arnold’s decision to retire paved the way for Moreno and Atascadero City Council member Susan Funk to compete for the supervisorial role. Moreno clinched victory during the March primary election by grabbing 56.4 percent of the vote share.

She assumed the dais after being sworn in alongside incumbents 1st District Supervisor John Peschong and 3rd District Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg who retained their positions without competition.

Moreno told the crowd watching the ceremony that she’s ready to do the “people’s work” in the face of challenges ahead.

“Whenever I’ve been asked to speak to students … I would ask them as mayor of Atascadero, ‘Who do you think my boss is?’” she said. “Maybe one of the adults in the room says, ‘Maybe, it’s us.’ It’s all of you, and you know that.”

With former Board Chair Arnold’s exit and Moreno’s entry, Ortiz-Legg assumed the rotating role of chair for the calendar year and 4th District Supervisor Jimmy Paulding became vice chair. Meanwhile, in Atascadero, former City Council member Charles Bourbeau is the new mayor after he ran unopposed for Moreno’s vacant seat.

Second District Supervisor Bruce Gibson concluded the ceremony by contrasting the nation’s “uncertain” political climate ahead thanks to President Donald Trump’s reelection with “optimism” within county government. The swearing-in ceremonies, he added, are always a tremendously hopeful time.

“The situation at the federal level is going to be unsettled,” he said. “That’s the most polite word I can summon to describe it, and there’s going to be ripple effects into the state. But I am absolutely convinced and committed to service at the local level as being the most important level of government and also one that provides extraordinary opportunity.”

The newly formed Board of Supervisors will re-convene for its first official meeting at the Katcho Achadjian Government Center on Jan. 14 at 9 a.m.

—Bulbul Rajagopal

San Miguel aims for more urban forestry

More trees could sprout up in San Miguel after the Community Services District (CSD) opted to develop a downtown landscaping plan.

On Dec. 19, the San Miguel CSD board voted unanimously to request proposals from local developers to update its current water and wastewater master plan and develop a new master plan for streetlighting and landscaping.

Former board director Anthony Kalvans,

who stepped back from the board in November after serving three terms, told New Times that developing a streetlighting and landscaping master plan would be a “small step” in the right direction toward his yearslong goal of planting more trees in San Miguel.

“When you look at the hills around our town, quite frankly, they’re barren, and most of the time of the year they are brown. Summers reach up to be 120 degrees,” he said. “So, I know that by having more trees in our community, we can then actually help protect our community against rising temperatures and also provide a little more shade to residents, especially in places like the downtown area.”

Kalvans said the inspiration for such a goal started in 2007 when SLO County provided some plants and trees downtown. The county was responsible for planting them, however, and the district struggled to figure out who would pay for and maintain the landscaping.

An 80-year-old resident took on the responsibility of maintaining the area until 2020, when Kalvans said the district was able to expand its services for landscaping by using its extra streetlighting funds, as allowed under state law.

“This was an opportunity for us because we had surpluses in that department to make this happen,” he said.

Now that the board gave the green light for developing a streetlight and landscaping master plan, visions include identifying and planting low-maintenance and long-lasting trees along roadways and in abandoned and barren lots of land—like on 15th Street and along Mission Street—and incorporating more streetlights as needed, according to a meeting agenda from 2023.

Kalvans said he hopes these improvements will enhance the beauty of San Miguel.

“When people come off of our freeways or go into our communities, they can then see more trees instead of weeds, tumbleweeds, trash, you know, things like that,” he said. In a community with potential for growth, he said he believes the trees are an investment in the district’s future.

“We are growing rapidly. There’s 3,000 people in San Miguel, and obviously, with the effects of climate change and an affordability crisis, there’s going to be more people up there. And hopefully they’ll be able to create a community that’s nice and doesn’t have to suffer from those brutal summers,” he said. This isn’t the first time the district has asked for master plan proposals. It didn’t receive any proposals to update its 2020 water and wastewater master plan—a project intended to enable production of recycled water, according to District Manager Kelly Dodds. Dodds said at the Dec. 19 meeting that the district hadn’t received any proposals in 2022 because developers didn’t have the time to submit them. However, this year he hopes it will be different.

Board President Ashley Sangster made a couple of suggestions at the meeting for requesting proposals, including extending the deadline and establishing better relationships with developers.

“I found that the response is exponentially better than zero,” Sangster said at the meeting. “Perhaps that would be something beneficial.”

Dodds confirmed with New Times via email that proposals are due at the end of January and will be presented to the board in February.

—Libbey Hanson

THANK YOU

American Legion Post #66 wants to thank its supporters and volunteers for helping “Wreaths across America”, Toy & Clothing Drive for our Veterans & Active military living in our community.

This program supported the Salvation Army, Active military troops at Camp SLO, Camp Roberts, Morro Bay Coast Guard, Mission View, Avila Senior Living, Bayside Care Center, Las Brisas & Arroyo Grande Care Facilities.

American Legion Post #66 1661 Mill St. SLO • 805-543-6445 A special thank you to our sponsors: • Central Coast Paralegal Association

Embody our mission of “Living God’s love by inspiring

To

and submit an

Call Katherine at 805-235-1914.

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Beyond a building

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The Atascadero Printery has a volunteer nonprofit backing it for artistic restoration

Atascadero native Mike McNamara kept a keen eye on the historic Atascadero Printery ever since the San Simeon earthquake rocked its foundations into disrepair in 2003.

“My husband started an online conversation about the printery and how it was being vandalized and destroyed,” his wife, Karen McNamara, said. “He just never was one to kind of sit back and go, ‘Somebody ought to do something.’ He would just get involved and do it. So, he did.”

seismic retrofit so we can be in the building to utilize it.”

The nonprofit needs $2 million to complete the retrofit and finish revamping the interior of the printery. According to Karen, that level of funding would mean the new and improved printery could be open within a year. Since 2015, they’ve raised more than $750,000.

The repair work before them is intricate.

Prop up the printery Volunteer to restore the Atascadero Printery at volunteerslo.org or email volunteer coordinator Mary Rush at glmrush@charter.net. Interested participants can also call her at (805) 952-5602.

fundraising efforts. Another roughly six people from the community sign up to work the grounds monthly.

Local organizations step in as volunteers too. A crew of eight people from Home Depot arrived in November to trim trees. That same day, a Boy Scout troop raked leaves and picked up trash.

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Mike got the conversation to save the printery rolling on Facebook. The active group soon took their discussions out into the real world, gathering for meetings and trying to find the owners of the century-old structure.

When Mike suddenly passed away, their kids requested that Karen take on his mission to help. During the city’s Colony Days celebration in 2015, she placed a banner on a table that urged for volunteers to help rebuild the printery. Karen then launched the nonprofit Atascadero Printery Foundation and became its president the following month with community support.

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Almost a decade later, the nonprofit is diligently committed to restoring the printery for public use with a focus on the arts.

“We’ll have different groups renting it for different things, like helping get youth art and the senior programs in there,” Karen said. “When we get the theater open, there’ll be all kinds of entertainment. … It’ll help economically strengthen Atascadero.”

The Atascadero Printery was built in 1915 to house the Women’s National Publishing Company. It took on new roles as the years passed, printing copies of the Illustrated Review and Atascadero News along with supplements for the Los Angeles Times and the San Francisco Chronicle. The printery was an instrumental employment hub for residents of the nascent town.

Atascadero founder Edward Gardner Lewis wanted objects in the city to be beautiful with a purpose, Rush said. The 19,000-square-foot printery features a marble entryway, oak interiors, a copperclad front door, paned windows, original commissioned murals, and exteriors bearing detailed etchings, carvings, and brickwork.

Volunteers currently keep the printery from looking like an abandoned structure.

“We’re working to make sure the building does not get any further destruction to it,” Rush said. “We’re also working on the windows currently with another organization that is raising funds to do the windows piece by piece.”

Currently, volunteers perform outdoor maintenance. They trim trees, rake leaves, plant flowers, and keep the grounds in good condition. Most recently, they put up Christmas lights on the building for the community to enjoy.

Since November, volunteers also occasionally conduct hard-hat tours for the public. The purpose is transparency—to take people inside to show progress and potential.

“People don’t realize that this room where there was an indoor pool … could be utilized as a beautiful reception hall for meetings and that sort of thing,” Rush said. “They come in inside, ... see the old gymnasium, and visualize the theater going in that section. Then upstairs, there are actually classroom areas and another big ballroom that would probably be divided up for multiple uses.”

The printery nonprofit held its first gala in November, Restoring the Arts to Atascadero. It proved to be its biggest fundraising event to date. Attendees bid on bronze statues and art pieces, and some of the bronze statues were donated to the printery itself.

Now, the nonprofit is gearing up for another fundraiser in the form of the Mother’s Day Fair. It’s also calling on the community to raise $250,000 through a “brick-by-brick fundraiser.” Individuals and businesses that donate will be honored through bricks of varying sizes that will be placed into the grounds, corners and center of the outdoor stage, and pathway. An online art auction to help the printery is open until Jan. 25, which is accessible through atascaderoprintery.org.

For Rush, the printery has cut a curious figure over the 25 years she’s lived in Atascadero. Her family always drove past it wondering what it held. She volunteered as a yard worker, then got invited to join the board, found herself fundraising, and now dedicates time as the volunteer coordinator. It’s a family affair too, with Rush’s husband joining hands with the work crew once a month.

“It’s like the biggest recycle project we’ve got going on in town,” she said. “It always amazes me how many people said, ‘I just thought it was an abandoned building,’ or ‘Oh, I didn’t know anybody was working on that.’ And they’ve lived here in Atascadero for a long time.” ∆

Beyond printing, the building also served as junior colleges, the Masonic Lodge, the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, and a youth services venue.

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Printery nonprofit director Mary Rush told New Times that until 2017, the structure was privately owned. That changed when the nonprofit and its volunteers stepped in to renovate.

“We bought it in 2017 at a tax auction for the county for $300,000,” Rush said. “They [the nonprofit] raised it through fundraising. The goal is to continue to raise funds for the

The nonprofit needs $2 million to complete the retrofit and finish revamping the interior of the printery. According to Karen [McNamara], that level of funding would mean the new and improved printery could be open within a year.

The nonprofit’s 12 board members consider themselves volunteers who carry out both physical improvements and

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

PICTURE POTENTIAL An architect’s drawing of the future restored Atascadero Printery shows bustling activity containing what its namesake nonprofit has been working toward: a theater, meeting rooms, and programs for youth and seniors.

Eat and greet

The People’s Kitchen of SLO provides hot meals for the hungry 364 days a year

Hundreds of locals are getting a free hot meal 364 days a year thanks to The People’s Kitchen of San Luis Obispo.

The People’s Kitchen is a 100 percent volunteer-run nonprofit that has been serving one hot meal at noon to the hungry each day since 1984.

With the help of volunteers and more than three dozen local organizations, People’s Kitchen of SLO board member Chrissy Stenson said, they serve more than 300 locals each afternoon and had served more than 32,000 people in 2024 alone.

“We want to serve anybody who’s hungry,” Stenson said. “That’s our mission, is to provide a hot meal to whoever wants it and offer it with justice and love.”

Each day one of 40 organizations oversees the meal, Stenson explained. This involves cooking enough food for about 300— including a hot meal, a side dish of fruit and vegetables, and drinks like water, milk, or juice—alongside delivering and serving the food at its location at 40 Prado Road.

As a board member, it’s Stenson’s job to start the setup each Monday and assist with whatever the serving organization needs that lunchtime.

“It starts at 12 p.m., and either we serve until we run out of food or run out of customers,” Stenson said, “and if we have enough, then we call people up for seconds.”

People’s Kitchen has been serving at 40

Each day one of 40 organizations oversees the meal. … This involves cooking enough food for about 300—including a hot meal, a side dish of fruit and vegetables, and drinks like water, milk, or juice—alongside delivering and serving the food at its location at 40 Prado Road.

Prado Road since 2018 after a few failed locations—on the Old Mission’s covered porch, at the Grange Hall, and when the city needed the old Prado Day House for mandated water treatment improvements.

The Prado Day House then moved across the street, and with help from the community, it became an operating night shelter and day house, Stenson said.

“The community came together and raised the money for this beautiful new building—it was a whole collaborative effort and local electrician businesses volunteered their time. It was pretty extensive, and it’s a beautiful spot,” she said.

Anyone is welcome to come for a meal, Stenson explained, and every day clients include individuals who are locally unhoused, disabled and unable to work, and working poor.

All that’s required for a meal is a photo ID, since the shelter houses children.

“And you know, once the staff has vetted

them and knows them, they just walk in. But when they’re first new, it’s a process of finding out about them and making sure that the kids in the building are safe.”

Stenson noted that if a client shows up in need of a meal but doesn’t have any identification or doesn’t want to enter the building, People’s Kitchen provides to-go meals.

“Before we even serve lunch, a staff member takes those out of the building so that at least some members of the community that can’t come in or don’t want to come in will still get fed,” she said.

Stenson said she has gotten to know the clients on a personal level and that’s the most rewarding part of the gig.

“That’s something I love about this service is getting to know the different people that come in, because you see them on a daily or weekly basis, and you get to know them as people,” she said. “It’s really nice getting to know them as people.”

Stenson said volunteers at People’s Kitchen can be involved with a participating group like a local church, or can just come on their

Get in the kitchen

To learn more about volunteering for the People’s Kitchen of San Luis Obispo, visit slopeopleskitchen.org/ forming-a-serving-group. Donations can be made via the website, or checks can be mailed to 793 Foothill Blvd., suite A, No. 22, San Luis Obispo, 93405.

own. And the time commitment can be an hour each day, month, or year.

“We have 40-plus groups because not every group comes once a month. You know, there’s one family that just comes once a year, and they bring their kids,” she said.

When starting with People’s Kitchen of SLO seven years ago, Stenson said she had observed lunchtime to figure out where she was interested in helping, which led her to become a board member.

“As my kids grew up, I was missing that. So this allowed me to kind of take care of people in that way. It’s just a very nice, important service,” she said.

Volunteer roles can include a variety of things like cooking, delivering, serving the meals, or all the above.

“Whether they cook the meal and come to serve it or just show up to serve it, they’re giving their time,” she said.

And while cooking a meal for 300 can feel intimidating, Stenson ensured prospective volunteers that People’s Kitchen is there to help. And if those interested can’t donate their time, Stenson said the organization does not receive federal funding and is always accepting donations to help with paper supplies, cups, and meals.

For the hot lunches, People’s Kitchen’s website features easy recipes for large quantities that anyone can make, like meatloaf, chicken, and mac and cheese— anything soft, as many clients have dental problems, the website said.

Stenson said her favorite meal is a tamale pie, which has 5 pounds of taco meat in the bottom of a pan, layered with assorted beans like kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, a layer of cheese, and cornbread on top.

“Any dishes that have a real protein, you know, those really are loved,” she said. “So, chicken thighs, chicken legs, pieces of meat, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Mashed potatoes are a huge one.” ∆

Reach Staff Writer Libbey Hanson at lhanson@newtimesslo.com.

ON A ROLL Volunteers for The People’s Kitchen of SLO provide hot meals every day at noon for the hungry at 40 Prado Road.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PEOPLE’S KITCHEN OF SLO

NOT BELONGINGS BE RICH IN EXPERIENCES,

Embracing

Nipomo’s living history

The Dana Adobe needs volunteers to help preserve the history of the 130-acre property

The Dana Adobe, a 187-year-old ranch that was once home to Capt. William Dana, is one of the oldest standing buildings on the Central Coast, and its history is kept alive through the help of volunteers.

Sitting on 130 acres, the Dana Adobe has experienced its fair share of colorful history.

Dana Adobe Nipomo Amigos (DANA) board of directors President Jim Corridan said once the 1840s rolled around and the United States gained control of California from Mexico, Nipomo was actually considered the center of the territory, and the Dana Adobe became the hub of the mail system for the U.S. military until statehood in 1850.

“All mail traversing from San Diego up to San Francisco, anywhere in between there would come through the Dana Adobe house,” he said. “So the house is almost about 3.3 … miles off of dead center between San Diego and San Francisco so that’s why it was important for so long.”

While the home dates back to 1837, the story of the land itself predates the adobe by thousands of years, Corridan said.

“There’s two Chumash camps, one dating back about 9,000 years, based on what archeologists have told us, and the other one about 2,000 years,” he said. “So, there’s all sorts of archeological signs that the Chumash were actively involved here on the property.”

Looking to the future, the DANA volunteers have been working on landscaping projects to enhance museumgoers’ experience. Corridan said they’ve added 30 acres of native California plants to the property as well as an orchard and vineyard. The project has taken about a year to complete.

“In the last couple of years, we’ve added a mission grape vineyard—mission grapes being the grapes that the Spanish brought to the Americas—and so the grapes we have planted here actually are from the oldest grape plant in California,” he said. “It was planted in 1806 in Mission San Gabriel, down

in Los Angeles, and so these are all direct descendants of that vine.

In October, the the public will be invited to participate in cutting, harvesting, and crushing the grapes, Corridan said.

In keeping with the Spanish era, the relatively newly planted fruit trees around the vineyard would have been here when the land belonged to Capt. William Dana.

“Plus, we added about 100 acres of hiking trails—about 4 miles of hiking trails—on the property,” Corridan said.

Once the 1840s rolled around and the United States gained control of California from Mexico, Nipomo was actually considered the center of the territory, and the Dana Adobe became the hub of the mail system for the U.S. military until statehood in 1850.

To help keep this living history thriving, the museum runs on volunteers, and Corridan said DANA is always looking for new people to join the team.

“We have opportunities to work in the gardens, work in the vineyards, work in the orchard. There’s a lot to do with 130 acres,”

he said. “We have opportunities to clear trails, lead hikes; if someone enjoys bird watching and is well versed in identifying different birds or plants or animals or archeology or geology, they might want to contact us.”

For former educators or those interested in volunteering in a more educational role, the adobe organization is looking for people to help lead school field trips. But don’t worry, Corridan said, each volunteer will receive training on how to do the job they’re interested in.

There are two tours led around the property. One goes around the house itself and focuses on its history during the 1840s, and the other focuses on Chumash history.

“Then there’s always the basic administrative things like helping with setting up events, helping sell tickets at events, all that kind of stuff,” he said. “We also need help with the newsletter and so forth. We have almost endless opportunities for volunteers.” ∆

Reach Staff Writer Samantha Herrera at sherrera@newtimesslo.com.

THE ADOBE The nearly 190-year-old adobe that once belonged to Capt. William Dana was home to the U.S. Postal Service between the 1840s and the 1850s as it was the center of California’s territory before official statehood.
COURTESY PHOTOS BY JIM CORRIDAN
LEAD THE WAY The Dana Adobe Nipomo Amigos is always looking for volunteers to lead hikes on the 4 miles of trails throughout the adobe property, as seen here. Walk through history Learn more and apply to volunteer at the historic Dana Adobe in Nipomo at danaadobe.org/volunteer. The adobe is located at 671 S. Oakglen

2025 Volunteer Opportunities

Cabin and Bungalow Meals

20 meals for Cabins for Change

Warming Center (Weather Dependent) 20 meals

Set-up, Check-in, Overnight, Break-down

Supply Drives

Warm Clothing Drives

Shelf Stable Food Drive

Hygiene Drive

Sock & Underwear Drive

Events Volunteers

Hope For the Homeless Golf Tournament: March - April

Fiesta at Fin’s: May

Empty Bowls: Sept - Oct

Giving Tuesday: November

Raffle and Auction Baskets for each event

Would you like to host an event or drive?

Let us know! We have all the supplies you need.

Volunteering Information

Stephanie.Leblanc@5CHC.org (805) 550-8701

100 South 4th Street - Grover Beach

Please note: Some

Outdoors Reimagined

Spheres of support

Mission Community Services Corporation headquartered in San Luis Obispo may host California’s “best kept secret” in the form of its Women’s Business Centers, but the 28-year-old nonprofit doesn’t turn away anyone who’s looking to uplift themselves.

“In California, we have 22 … a really large number of Women’s Business Centers,” SLO County Program Director Patti Fox said. “We meet twice a month, and we are very aware of trends. We try and support each other and share resources … there’s no charge for our services.”

The nonprofit became home to Women’s Business Center chapters in SLO, Monterey, and Kern counties in 2006 thanks to partial funding from the Small Business Administration.

Through technical assistance business courses, workshops, and individual consulting sessions, the centers focus on women, low- to moderate-income individuals, minorities, veterans, and activeduty military and their families who are aspiring entrepreneurs.

In 2024 alone, the SLO and Monterey counties chapters clocked more than 1,800 hours of business consulting for small business owners and helped launch 24 new ventures, subsequently assisting more than 400 people with the necessary tools to jumpstart their dreams.

Over the years, clients of the SLO County chapter went on to set up Junk Girls, beverage company To Be Honest Bev Co., and Los Osos-based Quick Pickle Kit, among other small-scale businesses.

“We’re structuring our programming to reflect the needs of the clients,” Fox said. “Businesses come and go in SLO, especially restaurants unfortunately. We serve all industries. We have retail, food service … florists, candle shops. We have wineries up in the northern part of the county that are coming to us.”

Potential and current small business owners wanting a new business or marketing plan have more to look forward to in 2025.

On Jan. 14, community members can join a Zoom workshop on how artificial intelligence can be transformative for small businesses. The following week, they can join another online session about Caltrans business certifications. Currently new workshops are scheduled to take place every week through February. Visit mcscorp.org/ workshops to register.

The Women’s Business Center also offers consultancy work and mentoring. At no cost, the consultations are conducted by experts in marketing, finance, business strategy and management, and accounting.

Entrepreneurial training courses are available, too. Explore, Design & Launch is 30-hour, 8-to-10-week course, in both English and Spanish, that includes mentoring sessions with an experienced consultant. Clients will develop a business plan, gain financial and marketing literacy, and get additional assistance to make their business plan a reality.

Fox added that the services aren’t a “oneand-done” experience.

“They can keep working with [the] consultant,” she said. “Many of our businesses will work with someone specifically for their marketing and one specifically for their business strategies. We also help prepare businesses to reach out to funders.”

Eighty percent of their clients across the different counties are women, while roughly 42 percent of the total clientele are Spanish speaking. Venturing into support for child care providers is a new initiative for the Women’s Business Center. With soaring child care costs and employers becoming increasingly aware about the need to provide child care help, the center is trying to give such providers training and the support they need to maintain and grow their businesses. Interested community members can sign up through the website mcscorp.org or call (805) 595-1357 for more information.

“We are open to receiving clients, definitely, because that’s what makes it work—the more people we have,” Fox said.

Fast fact

• Big Brothers Big Sisters of SLO County (BBB SLO) is celebrating Mentor Month and its 30th anniversary. The chapter is hosting an appreciation event on Jan. 16 at There Does Not Exist brewery in SLO. With a goal of obtaining 100 new recurring donors, the agency is asking for community members to sign up as a recurring donor and give $30 per month in honor of the 30 years of service. BBB SLO is also calling for new mentors to join and make an impact on local youth. For more information, call (805) 329-1955. ∆

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

Direct democracy in action

Grover Beach citizens are heroes, not drama queens

In 2024 direct democracy won battles in San Luis Obispo County. Atascadero residents voted to continue to elect their city treasurer. Morro Bay citizens said no to battery energy storage in their industrial area. But nowhere in the county were citizens more active than in Grover Beach. In 2024, Grover Beach voters fought for direct democracy and took action in the thousands. They repealed water rate hikes through the (G-24) nonpartisan citizen ballot initiative. They stopped a flawed water project, Central Coast Blue. They won a lawsuit when city officials illegally blocked their recall efforts and went on to recall one council member (only 17 percent of local recalls succeed). After the city blocked their recall efforts for three months, they went to court where the SLO Superior Court judge determined that the city violated election law, and commanded the city clerk to release the petitions. The city attorney now admits that the council has to date authorized more than $94,000 to pay for defending their illegal actions. Come January, the court will likely demand that the city pay the citizens’ legal bills, an amount that could total up to $200,000 to cover the city and citizens’ legal expenses.

In 2026 voters will get to decide if they would prefer to elect their city clerk, who

Don’t Look Back tells the story of a generation

I recently saw Don’t Look Back at the Palm Theatre and felt like I had time traveled to my youth. While a college student at Columbia University, I hung out in Greenwich Village at coffee houses, jazz and folk music clubs and at bars where Dylan Thomas, the Welsh poet, was said to hang out. Although the second Dylan eluded me at the White Horse Bar, Bob Dylan didn’t. I am embarrassed to say I once left a club he was playing at during intermission because I thought his voice was terrible.

Now that I have seen the film, I realize not only the incredible influence the 20 years of folk and later folk rock music had on my generation, but also what a strong part it played in various movements: civil rights; ban-the-bomb; Vietnam war protests, Native American and women’s rights. I only wish that music had a similar role to play today.

I strongly urge people to see the film whether you were alive during that era or not. And note the neat symmetry between the beginning and the end.

Judith Bernstein Arroyo Grande

is the elections official, rather having the clerk appointed by the city manager. This happened because more than 1,000 Grover voters worked to put this citizens’ initiative on the ballot.

They are not done yet. The citizens’ group Grover H2O created a petition for a ballot initiative that would ask the community if they would prefer to elect their city attorney rather than have the attorney appointed by the council. They have until June 2025 to gather those 1,000 signatures.

It all began back in September 2023, when Grover Beach water consumers received letters from the city saying water bills would quadruple by 2028 to finance the Central Coast Blue water reclamation project. Just a year earlier, they had been reassured by the city manager, Matthew Bronson, that 2021 increases would fully fund the project.

The letter was the first notice in the Proposition 218 process whereby the rates would go up unless 50 percent plus one of the water customers got a letter to City Hall saying they opposed it, referred to as a “protest vote.” In a city that is 50 percent rentals and has a large number of industrial and commercial water customers, that was an impossible task. Several citizens banded together to send a template for a protest letter to all 5,000 water customers, including those with out-of-town addresses.

The city then realized they hadn’t mailed to their out-of-town addressees, and the City Council voted to start the process over.

A day of mourning

On Inauguration Day this year drums will be muffled, black ribbons unfurled, and flags will be at half-mast to honor the passing of former President Jimmy Carter. That day could also be considered a day of mourning for democracy, for that will be the day that formerly impeached, convicted felon, draftdodger, con artist, and yet unregistered sex-offender Donald J. Trump will once again pledge to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States. It is not expected that he will do

Water customers were told that protest votes sent before the city do-over would not count. Then the City Council directed that they would count. Nevertheless, the city manager, Bronson, sent the second mailing saying the protest votes would not count.

Despite the odds, 2,000 households sent a protest letter in time for the Proposition 218 hearing on Dec. 11, 2023. Three (male) hydrologists and a civil engineer spoke at the meeting, advising the council that the project was flawed and should be dropped. At least one male speaker told the council they would be recalled if they voted in favor of the increase. The council did not heed their warnings and approved the water rate increase.

The citizens, who had by then banded together as a nonpartisan political action committee, called themselves Grover H2O. They were responsible for investigating and advocating against the Central Coast Blue project, which is not and was not a viable solution to increase Grover’s water supply. (It is questionable whether Grover really has a water problem—the local coastal program states that Grover has sufficient water for their buildout population around 15,000, but the city does want to increase and broaden its options for additional water.)

Except for this group and their supporters and their tireless commitment to the truth, the Grover Beach and the Arroyo Grande city councils would have not pulled out of the project. Grover Beach taxpayers would be

any better this time than the last, and his pledge will most likely be yet another in a burgeoning list of big lies! God save us all,

stuck with large water bills, torn up streets, ugly pumping stations, neighborhoods disrupted by large drilling cranes, and a project that would provide very little water at exorbitant prices.

Yet rather than reporting on these unprecedented grassroots success stories of the “little city that could,” the local press disparages the group and calls them names. Although many of the protests have been raised by men, only the women in the movement are being singled out by the press. They have been ridiculed, denigrated, and dismissed by misogynistic writers in the local papers.

In a bizarre twist, while Grover H2O has stuck to the issues and embraced a yearlong nonpartisan campaign to save their community thousands of dollars, the press and fans of the City Council call Grover H2O leaders liars and hateful. If you are going to attach labels to the women in the movement who have researched, walked, authored, and petitioned, I say they are heroes, champions, leaders, or advocates. People usually say, “You can’t beat City Hall!” Maybe it’s time to give credit where credit is due.

My New Year’s wish and hope for 2025 is that democracy will thrive, and City Hall will listen and say, “You can’t beat the People!” ∆

Cheryl Storton writes from Arroyo Grande. She’s the past president of the South County Democratic Club. Send a response for publication to letters@newtimesslo.com.

and God save the United States of America. Mark Henry San Luis Obispo

Kumbaya-yaya

“Anewyear and a new you” was the vibe at the Jan. 7 SLO County Board of Supervisors meeting as one new and two reelected board members were sworn in. It was all hugs and smiles and kumbaya, baby! It’s also like the board members collectively had their minds erased of all the vitriol, contentiousness, and rancor of their past battles over how to do the people’s business. Did y’all forget you fight like honey badgers sewn into a rucksack?

Outgoing 5th District Supervisor Debbie Arnold was grinning like a Cheshire cat knowing she was finally washing her hands of this shit show after three terms of service.

“It was a funny feeling coming in those doors for the last time after 12 years,” she noted, adding that her time in office “was the honor of my lifetime. I feel good about retiring and having this board take over all the county business. I know they’ll do a good job.”

Really? It’s still a liberal-leaning board, you

position as the new chair of the board

Incoming 5th District Supervisor Heather Moreno took Ortiz-Legg’s old seat, and the reshuffle was complete. Say hello to the new board, same as the old board.

“I want to welcome Heather Moreno to our board,” 4th District Supervisor and new Vice Chair Jimmy Paulding said. “I’m really excited to be working with you this year. I think there’re a lot of good things in store for SLO County.”

Kumbaya, my Lord. Kumbaya.

“I want to thank my colleagues for their vote of confidence and to work together,” Ortiz-Legg intoned solemnly.

“It’s humbling and sobering to be an elected representative of the people in your own community. Of course, I want to acknowledge that this is the land of the Chumash—the original descendants of this incredible land where we live. I

which she called “the lifeblood of our state’s clean energy” and characterized as “the robust, 24/7, safely operating plant sitting on our pristine and well-managed coastline.”

The supervisors might be all olive branches and open hands right now, but the county still faces all its same persistent problems from whether Diablo can operate safely into the future to homelessness to the cost of living to the environment to health care services and on and on.

But everything’s going to be just fine because Ortiz-Legg said she’s going to run the board with sweetness and light: “Disagree constructively and debate the policy, not the person. I hope we all work together, and we can help you achieve your dreams together.”

All our dreams are going to come true, people! Woo hoo!

Moreno was all-in on the cheerleading routine: “I commit to listening, to collaborating with my colleagues, to doing the people’s work, doing what you sent us here for, and we have a lot of challenges ahead. I look forward to tackling those.”

Realist 1st District Supervisor John Peschong thanked his constituents for

… challenging. To me, I want to maintain an optimism—a positive outlook. The situation at the federal level is going to be … unsettled. That’s the most polite word that I can summon to describe it, and there’s going to be ripple effects into the state. But I am absolutely convinced and committed to service at the local level being the most important level of government.”

Yep, there are a lot of gente quaking in their botas about what’s going to happen when you-know-who returns to the White House Mass deportations? And you don’t even need to look Latino to be worried. More oil drilling? Tariffs raising prices? Reproductive rights? The social safety net? Who knows what’s going to “ripple” through California?

“These swearing-in ceremonies are always a tremendously hopeful time. It is the renewal of our democratic system, an expression of our democratic values. We celebrate here the peaceful transfer of authority. We’re early in the year,” Gibson quipped about the 15-minute-old board, “but so far things are going pretty well.” Moreno guffawed heartily. Maybe her Atascadero

Hot Dates

ARTS

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ARTISTS RECEPTION AND ATRIUM PARTY: FOCUS ON BIRDS, BRIAN JOHNSON, AND ARDELLA SWANBERG

Come meet the artists, be inspired, and enjoy food, refreshments, a tree-filled atrium, and all the businesses in Marina Square. Jan. 11 , 3-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. 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.

FOCUS ON BIRDS: A GROUP WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW

Come discover what all our bird friends in the Estuary have been up to. Through Jan. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FOR THE BIRDS Held in conjunction with the Morro Bay Bird Festival. This group exhibit features artworks depicting various avian subjects from the show’s pool of artists. Jan. 9 - Feb. 17 artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 772-2504.

FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY

Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked. com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

FREE OIL PAINTING PORTRAIT DEMONSTRATION Join Anita Hampton as she demonstrates a live oil-painted portrait selected by the owner of a winning raffle ticket. Visit site for more info. Jan. 13 3-5 p.m. (805) 772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay. GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS MIXED MEDIA PAINTINGS BY BRIAN JOHNSON Stop by to see Johnson’s mixed media abstract art that incorporates inks, gels, and mirrors. Through Jan. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. PAINT YOUR PET Come paint your animal, whether that’s a dog, cat, horse, or chicken. No painting experience is necessary. Jan. 11 , 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. $60. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint. com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.

UNCORK YOUR CREATIVITY: COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY Offering a unique opportunity to sip wine while painting stunning ocean-inspired landscapes. All materials included. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $60. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint.com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

DAILY POTTERY Walk in, pick your pottery project, and paint away. Something for all ages. Prices vary depending on what you choose and includes; paint, glaze, firing, and studio time. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Varies. (805) 400-9107. artsocial805. com. ArtSocial 805 Creative Campus, 631 Spring St., Paso Robles.

DEPRISE BRESCIA ART GALLERY: ONGOING DISPLAYS 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.

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

RIVER A showcase of new oil paintings by Big Sur-based artist Abigail Smith. Originally from Templeton, Smith resides in a mountain cabin near the freshwater streams she depicted in her paintings on display. Jan. 11 - Feb. 10 cruisecontrolcambria.com. Cruise Control Gallery, 1075 Main St., Cambria, (805) 503-3820.

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

CAPTURING THE MAGIC OF COWBOY COUNTRY An equestrian photography exhibit featuring authentic cowboys and cowgirls horse wrangling, galloping, and traversing the foothills of the majestic Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming in winter. Through Jan. 15 (805) 423-6427. The Photo Shop, 1027 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.

CENTRAL COAST COMEDY THEATER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW An ongoing improv comedy program featuring the CCCT’s Ensemble. Grab some food at the public market’s wonderful eateries and enjoy the show upstairs. Second Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. $10. my805tix. com/e/improv-comedy-1-10. SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo.

CHRIS D’ELIA: STRAIGHT OUTTA THE MULTIVERSE Chris D’Elia will perform live at this 18-and-over event. Visit site for more info and tickets. Jan. 18 , 7 p.m. Starts at $34. fremontslo.com. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-8600.

JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan

BIRD IS THE WORD

Art Center Morro Bay will host an art reception to celebrate its new group exhibition, For the Birds, on Sunday, Jan. 12, from 2 to 4 p.m. Scheduled to remain on display through Monday, Feb. 17, the show is full of paintings that depict avian subjects, including this piece by Rod Aszman. Visit artcentermorrobay.org to find out more about the exhibit.

—Caleb Wiseblood

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.

JULIE ALPERT: STRANGE MAGIC As you step into Strange Magic, artist Julie Alpert’s first solo show in California, you’ll know one thing for certain: “Life is being lived.” Through March 2, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/ exhibition/julie-alpert-strange-magic/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

MOVIE NIGHT IN THE SECRET

GARDEN: RATATOUILLE Celebrate the joy of food, family, and friendship with a screening of the beloved culinary classic Ratatouille RSVP at the link to reserve a ticket. Jan. 17, 5-8 p.m. Free.

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa, 1215 Avila Beach Drive, San Luis Obispo.

OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP WITH DREW DAVIS Delve into the world of oil paints with guidance from local SLO artist Drew Smith, who has over 20 years of painting experience. Jan. 11 , 1:30-3:30 p.m. $105. Drew Davis Fine Art, 393 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.

PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden.

Second Saturday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $75 per picket or 2 for $100. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

SATURDAY NIGHT IMPROV AT THE BUNKER Enjoy a night of laughs with the Central Coast Comedy Theater. Jan. 18 6-8 p.m. $14. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

SLO NIGHTWRITERS: A COMMUNITY OF WRITERS SLO NightWriters supports local writers with monthly presentations, critique groups, contests,

and other events. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. (805) 703-3132. slonightwriters.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. WALT WHITMAN GAY MEN’S BOOK CLUB This club reads, studies and discusses books chosen by the group which relate to their lives as gay men. All are welcome. Second Monday of every month, 7-9:30 p.m. Free. galacc. org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

WHITNEY BEDFORD: THE WINDOW The Window intricately bridges the natural, the historical, and the imagined. Through Feb. 16, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ whitney-bedford/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY 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.

DIY MACRAMÉ WITH LADONNA

Have local macramé expert Ladonna guide you in making your own vintage macramé from a pattern first published in 1976. Visit site for tickets and more info. Jan. 11 , 1-4 p.m. $55. (805) 270-4083. theplantedparlour.com. The Planted Parlour, 592 W Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

GIRLS NIGHT: THE MUSICAL Hitting the stage of Arroyo Grande’s Clark Center. Visit site for tickets and more info. Jan. 16 , 7 p.m. $55. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, (805) 489-9444, clarkcenter.org.

Shamanic Morning Rituals for Vitality

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10

Aurora Sacred Adventures in Morro Bay

Brass Mash at Libertine Brew

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10 Libertine Brewing Company, SLO

Bites & Beats

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18

The Stockyard, Orcutt

JBird’s Burlesque (40th!!!)

BIRTHDAY Bash!

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18

Humdinger Brewing, SLO

Friday Night Improv featuring The Performing Ensemble

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10 San Luis Obispo Public Market

Francisco Yiddish Combo

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16

The Drum Brewery, SLO

Saturday Night Improv

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18 The Bunker SLO

Ride the Cyclone, The Musical FRI-SUN, JANUARY 10-26 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

Wavzine Presents: The Let Downs & Avalynn Fatale

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17 The Bunker SLO

MMX presents: How to Actually Drum

SAT & SUN, JANUARY 18 & 19

Atascadero Chamber of Commerce

Meditate with Dawn

SATURDAY, JANUARY 11

Aurora Sacred Adventures in Cayucos

JANUARY 12

San Miguel Arcangel

After Eight Band

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Beer Yoga at Naughty Oak

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19

Naughty Oak Brewing Company, Orcutt

Manifesting & The Law of Attraction, Meditation & Self-Hypnosis, & Soul-Centered Living

SATURDAY, JANUARY 11

YSLASH Carocha’s Gallery & Art Studios, Morro Bay

Embodied Yoga on the Central Coast

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18 Aurora Sacred Events in Morro Bay

Frequency Within, Mechanical Ghost, Bandwidth, & More!

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19

Humdinger Brewing, SLO

grafting demo and dive into the world of bonsai. Jan. 19, 1-3 p.m. (805) 270-4083. theplantedparlour.com. The Planted Parlour, 592 W Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

SECOND SATURDAY IMPROV MEETUP

Play short-form games and share smiles in the supportive environment of improv. Second Saturday of every month, 2-4 p.m. through Dec. 13 improvforgood.fun/. Flex Performing Arts Studio (Studio D), 1820 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

SMILES FOR SHELTER IMPROV SHOW

Enjoy great food and drinks, and share a laugh at this improv show. Donations will go to 5Cities Homeless Coalition. Jan. 18 , 7-8:30 p.m. $10 suggested donation. improvforgood.fun/. La Casita, 1572 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BREATHE AND STRETCH One must

be able to get down onto the floor and back up again, with ease, in order to participate in this 55-minute session. It’s specifically designed to enhance mobility and strength. Please bring a mat and some water. Mondays, 9-10 a.m. $10 per session. (415) 516-5214. Bayside

Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

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

CENTRAL COAST UECHI-RYU

KARATE-DO Uechi-Ryu Karate-do is a traditional form of karate originating from Okinawa, Japan. Focus is on fitness, flexibility, and self-defense with emphasis on self -growth, humility, and respect. Open to ages 13 to adult. Beginners and experienced welcome. Instructor with 50 years experience. For info, call 805-215-8806. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278, morro-bay.ca.us.

LOS OSOS SUNDAY MEDITATION CLASS Sitting with a supportive group strengthens one’s meditation practice. Join us for a weekly talk on topics related to meditation and consciousness plus silent and guided meditation. Facilitated by Devin Wallace. Beginners welcome. Email devinwalla@gmail.com for more information. Sundays, 10:15 a.m.-11:15

p.m. By donation. (805) 709-2227. inner-workings.com. Central Coast Body Therapy Center, 2005 9th St., Los Osos.

MANIFESTING AND THE LAW OF

ATTRACTION

Unlock the secrets to manifesting your dream life in this transformative workshop based on Beth McGill’s bestseller, Allow Life to Happen and receive everything you desire Jan. 11 , 12-1:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. YSLASH Carocha’s Gallery and Art Studios, 780 Monterey Ave., suite 103, Morro Bay.

MEDITATE WITH DAWN Join this semiprivate Chakra meditation class led by Dawn Feuerberg, founder of Aurora Adventures, who is a certified classical ashtanga yoga teacher and tantra meditation guide. Visit link for tickets and more info. Jan. 11 , 10-11:15 a.m. $49. (805) 540-1762. auroraadventures. us. Aurora Sacred Events, 21 24th St, Cayucos.

MEDITATION AND SELF-HYPNOSIS

Discover the transformative power of meditation and self-hypnosis in this hands-on workshop. Jan. 11 2-3:30 p.m. my805tix.com. YSLASH Carocha’s Gallery and Art Studios, 780 Monterey Ave., suite 103, Morro Bay.

MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS

DISCUSSION GROUP A group of metaphysically minded individuals that have been meeting for many years now in the Coalesce Chapel. Club offers a supportive metaphysical based community. Members discuss a different topic each week. All are welcome to join. Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10-$15. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

MORRO BAY MIXED MARTIAL ARTS

Disciplines include advanced athletic performance fitness training, Thai kickboxing, and more. Beginners to advanced students welcome. Day and evening classes offered. MondaysSaturdays, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Call for more info. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts. com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

NATURE OF YOU: WATER ELEMENT/ SOUND JOURNEY Embrace “your unique essence and true nature” through the guidance and wisdom of the Elements. This session will focus on the Water Element. Jan. 14 , 6-7:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Central Coast Body Therapy Center, 2005 9th St., Los Osos, (805) 709-2227.

OPEN FLOW: DANCE AND MOVEMENT

A community of movers and shakers who come together to express themselves through dance and movement. Inspired by a variety of conscious movement modalities, Open Flow is led by Silvia Suarez and Matt Garrity, embodiment teachers who share a passion for integration through movement exploration. Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. $10 (general), $5 (ages 55

and older). SilviaAthaSomatics.org. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278.

PALI KAI OUTRIGGER RACING CANOE CLUB Join, train, and race with these Sunday morning demonstrations. Enjoy getting in a canoe and on the water. These sessions are a great way to make new friends and stay in shape. Sundays, 9-11 a.m. through March 1 Three practices for free. palikai.org/joinus/. Coleman Park (Morro Bay), 101 Coleman Drive, Morro Bay, (805) 772-6278.

SCIENCE EXPLORATIONS Join the Morro Bay National Estuary Program for an afternoon of learning about local science, monitoring, and restoration projects, as well as climate resilience. Jan. 15 5-7 p.m. Free. eventbrite.com. The Schoolhouse, 2180 Palisades Drive, Los Osos, (805) 528-4169.

SHAMANIC MORNING RITUALS FOR VITALITY A semi-private Chakra meditation class led by Dawn Feuerberg, a certified classical ashtanga yoga teacher, tantra meditation guide, and founder of Aurora Adventures. Jan. 10, 8:30-9:45 a.m. my805tix.com. Beach Access Parking Lot, 102 Atascadero Road, Morro Bay.

SOUL-CENTERED LIVING Step into the power of surrender and discover the joy of aligning with your higher self in this transformative workshop. Jan. 11 , 4-5:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. YSLASH Carocha’s Gallery and Art Studios, 780 Monterey Ave., suite 103, Morro Bay.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi gong offers great anti-aging benefits, providing a comprehensive system for improving physical, mental and emotional health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin Wallace. Call first. Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. (805) 709-2227. Hardie Park, Ash Ave. and B St., Cayucos. Qi gong offers great anti-aging benefits, providing a comprehensive system for improving physical and mental health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin Wallace. Call first for info and exact location. Fridays, 9-10 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227. inner-workings.com. Los Osos, Townwide, Los Osos.

STRETCH, BREATHE, AND BALANCE Ideal for seniors, and open to everyone. Instructor Randal Bodlak takes you through specific moves to promote mobility, internal strength, and stability. Mondays, 9-10 a.m. $10 per session. (805) 528-4880. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

TAI CHI AND QI GONG: ZEN IN MOTION

Small group classes with 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the Year. Call for time and days. Learn the Shaolin Water Style and 5 Animals Qi Gong. Beginners welcomed. Mondays, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

& LIFESTYLE continued page 24

SLO County Restaurant

Wednesday, January 1 through Friday, January

OCEANO OLD JUAN’S CANTINA

Dig into bold Mexican flavors at Old Juan’s Cantina! This January, get our 3-course special: Start with tortilla soup or a house salad, then choose mole enchiladas, adobo, or smoke carnitas, and end with tres leches or churros. All for $40! Bring your appetite—we’ve got the rest!

649 Pier Avenue (805) 489-5680 OldJuansCantina.com

PISMO

BEACH

VENTANA GRILL

Sunday Brunch Buffet

PISMO/SHELL BEACH OLD SLO AT THE CAPE

The Cape, known for its seafood, is the Central Coast’s go-to for classics like Lobster rolls, sh ‘n’ chips, and our homemade chowder, but don’t forget about our tacos and burgers! Now serving Old SLO BBQ favorites at this seaside destination too! For Restaurant Month, choose any burger, side, and drink for $20. Add a beer or glass of wine for $5

1127 Shell Beach Road (805) 295-5144 • OldSLO-at-thecape.com

Enjoy hot dishes, seafood, fresh salads and desserts. Sip Bloody Marys and Mimosas while taking in the amazing view!

Special Price: $41.95/person (normally $51.95)

Max party size: 4 guests. Reservations required; must mention this ad when booking. Available Dates: January 5, 12, 19, & 26

ATASCADERO CIELO

Indulge in an unforgettable three-course dinner featuring a choice of Soup or Salad, a delectable Main Course, and a sweet Dessert finale.

Price: $50 Availability: 5 PM – 9 PM

Celebrate Restaurant Month with us and experience the perfect blend of flavors in every bite.

6400 El Camino Real (805) 538-9517 • CieloAtascadero.com

AVILA

BEACH

BLUE MOON OVER AVILA

Enjoy sweeping seaside views and stunning sunsets while enjoying our 3-course French Country Menu for $49. Pair classics like Beef Bourguignon, Coq-au-Vin, and Crème brûlée with a glass of French wine for the ultimate dining experience. Available daily from 4:30-8:00pm.

460 Front Street (805) 595-2583 BlueMoonOverAvila.com

PASO

ROBLES

PASO TERRA

PISMO BEACH VESPERA RESORT

Located on the lobby level of Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, Pequín Coastal Cocina offers whimsical Baja Coastal selections highlighting local ingredients and Chef touches that are inspiring and transformative. Join Chef Brandon for an exclusive threecourse dinner for $49. Complimentary valet parking is included.

147 Stimson Avenue (805) 779-4065 or (805) 773-1011 marriott.com/sbpak

ATASCADERO GUEST HOUSE GRILL

Enjoy a specially curated three-course menu featuring a Soup or Salad, a delicious Main Course, and a tempting Dessert. Price: $40 Availability: 4 PM – 8:30 PM Make Restaurant Month memorable with a meal that’s cra ed to impress!

8783 El Camino Real (805) 460-0193 GuestHouseGrill.com

AVILA BEACH

THE

GARDENS OF AVILA RESTAURANT

Dine with a cozy natural stone replace or on our heated Old Stone Patio. Dishes featuring the freshest garden-to-table and locally sourced ingredients.

Three Course Prix Fixe Menu for $50 Your Choice of Starter, Entrée, and Dessert Served 5 – 9PM • January 5 – 31

Hot tip: Warm up with a mineral springs hot tub soak before or a er dinner for the perfect night!

1215 Avila Beach Drive (805) 595-7302 • SycamoreSprings.com

Restaurant Month Special Indulge in a delectable three-course dining experience at Paso Terra this January!

Starter: Your choice of Caesar Salad or Soup du Jour Main Course: Chicken Coq au Vin or Cod Puttanesca (spicy tomato sauce), both served with rice and seasonal vegetables Dessert: Chocolate Mousse

All for just $35! Available January 2nd - 31st. Reservations can be made through the website. 1032 Pine Street (805) 227-4100 • PasoTerra.com

2575 Price Street (805) 773-0000 VentanaGrill.com SAN LUIS OBISPO

KIKO RESTAURANT AND PISCO BAR

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal with a modern twist at our creekside dining restaurant. We have crafted 3 special menus just for you, our locals!

Options:

1) Three Course Set Menu: Appetizer-Main Course-Small Dessert $49

2) Four Appetizers (small plates) & Two Pisco Sours: $49

3) Appetizer Sampler (4 small plates): $35

You won’t forget this unique and memorable dining experience!

746 Higuera Street • (805) 668-6711 KikoRestaurantslo.com • IG @kikorestaurantslo

PASO ROBLES

THE STEAKHOUSE

Paso Robles’ premier steakhouse for generations, The Steakhouse at Paso Robles Inn blends cowboy-meets-coastal avors with classic California cuisine. Join Chef Joe for an exclusive threecourse dinner for a true taste of Paso for $45.

1103 Spring Street (805) 226-4925 PasoRoblesInn.com

SAN LUIS OBISPO

OLD SAN LUIS BBQ CO.

Old SLO BBQ Co. is the local spot to enjoy the best BBQ on the Central Coast! Grab a sandwich or salad and CHECK OUT ALL OF THE CRAFT BEERS ON TAP. We specialize in authentic Santa Maria style cuisine and many of our family recipes date back nearly a century. For Restaurant Month, choose any sandwich, side, and drink for $20. Add a beer card for 25% OFF

3870-3 Broad Street & 670 Higuera Street (805) 285-2473 OldSanLuisBBQ.com

PISMO BEACH

Find Local Restaurant Month Specials

MARISOL RESTAURANT AT THE CLIFFS

Oceanfront views & sunsets.

Hyperlocal owners, chefs, and ingredients. Three Course Prix Fixe Menu for $50 Your Choice of Starter, Entrée, and Dessert Everyday 3:30 - 9PM • January 6 - 31

2757 Shell Beach Road (805) 773-5000 Cli sHotelAndSpa.com

PISMO BEACH SEAVENTURE RESTAURANT

180-degree panoramic views and spectacular sunsets! Three Course Prix Fixe Menu for $55

Your Choice of Starter, Entrée, and Dessert

Entrée Options include Grilled Flat Iron Steak or Salmon Paella Pair dinner with a Flight of 3 Wines for $18

180-degree panoramic views and spectacular sunsets!

ATASCADERO BARLEY & BOAR KITCHEN, BREWHOUSE AND DISTILLERY

Come in and enjoy a three-course dining experience with options including a Soup or Salad, a Main Course, and a delightful Dessert.

Price: $55 Availability: 5 PM – 9 PM

Celebrate Restaurant Month with bold flavors and impeccable dishes.

5925 Entrada Avenue (805) 460-6369 · BarleyAndBoar.com

ATASCADERO KULA HAWAIIAN KITCHEN

Discover Kula Hawaiian Kitchen’s elevated comfort food, featuring fresh island ingredients and the spirit of aloha. For just $30, choose from four tempting appetizers and eight savory entrees. Indulge in authentic Hawaiian flavors, beautifully presented in a warm, inviting setting. Visit today and taste the islands, in style! Valid for dine-in only.

6200 El Camino Real • (805) 519-8200 kulahawaiiankitchen.com

PASO

ROBLES ETTO PASTA BAR

100 Ocean View Avenue (805) 773-3463 · SeaVenture.com

COMPANY

It’s pie season! Celebrate with a $65 family pie pack: 1 large savory pot pie, 1 large sweet pie, 6 brown butter chocolate chip cookies An $83 value for just $65. While supplies last. Call ahead to reserve.

ula Hawaiian Kitchen K

Etto Pasta Bar serves pasta produced in our own factory served fresh with the best seasonal, local and Italian ingredients. Our menu re ects the purity and simplicity of the Italian table where great ingredients are featured to shine in a comfortable and casual setting.

3070 Limestone Way (805) 400-3193 ettopasti cio.com

TEMPLETON & PASO ROBLES JACK’S BAR & GRILL

Enjoy a flavorful three-course meal featuring your choice of Soup or Salad, a hearty Main Course, and a sweet Dessert to finish. Price: $40 Availability: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Join us for Restaurant Month and savor the smoky, bold flavors that make Jack’s Grill a local favorite!

509 South Main Street, Templeton (805) 434-5500 • JacksTempletonGrill.com

1902 Creston Road, Paso Robles (805) 296-3355

SAN LUIS OBISPO

PRESS QUESADILLA GRILL

Press Quesadilla Grill is California Coastal Fresh— now open in San Luis Obispo!

Bring in this ad or order from https://pressqg.com and get FREE Chips & Queso with an entrée! Coupon Code: QUESO

773 East Foothill Boulevard • PressQG.com

5945 Entrada Avenue (805) 460-6294 @bramblepieco

ATASCADERO JONNYBOY’S BAGELRY & JEWISH DELICATESSEN

Come visit Atascadero’s only bagelry & Jewish deli! All month long, enjoy one of our sandwiches, an 8oz side of our house-made potato salad, a Dr. Brown’s soda of your choosing, and a chocolate-dipped coconut macaroon for $25

5935 Entrada Avenue (805) 464-2159 • @jonnyboysbagelry

PASO ROBLES FISH GAUCHO

We take pride in offering the freshest seafood, succulent shellfish, locally sourced produce, and organic meats, all complemented by an exquisite selection of tequilas, mezcals, and fine spirits. We invite you to indulge in an exclusive three-course dinner, featuring a curated selection of our chef’s favorite dishes, all for just $41. Join us for an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the best of our culinary offerings. 1244 Park Street (805) 239-3333 • FishGaucho.com

SAN LUIS OBISPO

FERAL KITCHEN + LOUNGE

Discover Feral, downtown SLO’s newest culinary destination. Bold flavors, creative cocktails, and a stunning, lounge-style atmosphere set the stage for unforgettable nights. Whether for dinner, drinks, or unforgettable moments, join us and experience what’s wild and delicious at Feral Kitchen + Lounge!

725 Higuera Street (805) 465-2211

FeralKitchenAndLounge.com

Experience the rst-ever city of SLO Restaurant Month, January 1-31. Local eateries will have special menus at special prices you won’t want to miss. Indulge in innovative creations, savor classic favorites with a twist, or settle in with a multicourse meal. Satisfy your taste buds while supporting our culinary community! SAN LUIS OBISPO SLO RESTAURANT MONTH

-

Photo by: Sarah Kathleen

Call for price details. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay

Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

TAI CHI BASICS Visit site for more details on this ongoing, weekly Tai Chi program. Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $10$12. (805) 772-7486. fitnessworksmb. com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

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

YOGA PLUS A hybrid of yoga and “stretching” techniques that yield a body that moves and feels amazing. Mondays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $10 per session. (415) 516-5214. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

ZEN IN MOTION Learn the Shaolin Water Style and other deep breathing and moving meditation techniques with the 2019 Taijiquan Instructor of the Year. Beginners Welcome.Instructor Certification Courses available. Mondays, Wednesdays Call for details. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

ART FOR PAWS Get ready for a fun and free event celebrating art and our furry friends, benefitting Woods Humane Society and Studios on the Park. Visit site for more info. Jan. 18 , 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

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.

GUIDED MEDITATION WITH KAREN

LEARY AT AWAKENING WAYS

Experience guided meditations every Wednesday evening in a supportive space. Connect with your inner self and discover peace, healing, and self-awareness. Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.org. Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living, 7350 El Camino Real, Ste. 101, Atascadero.

HAMBLY LAVENDER FARM GUIDED

EXPERIENCE This one-hour walk about the farm immerses you in the processes of growing, harvesting, and drying this fragrant herb. Saturdays, Sundays, 10 a.m. my805tix.com. Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel.

HIIT 45 WITH SARA JORGENSEN

A dynamic and fun way to improve strength and cardiovascular conditioning using weights, resistance bands, and body weight. Bring a yoga mat and water. Thursdays, 9:30-10:15 a.m. and Mondays, 5:30-6:15 p.m. $15 for members; $25 for guests. (805) 434-9605. ttrtennis.com/fitness/fitnessclasses/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.

NAR-ANON: FRIDAY MEETINGS

A meeting for those who know or have known a feeling of desperation concerning the addiction of a loved one. Fridays, 12-1 p.m. Free. (805) 4412164. North County Connection, 8600 Atascadero Ave., Atascadero.

NEW YEAR’S FULL MOON FIRE CEREMONY AND RETREAT Harness the energy of the first full moon of 2025 and set powerful intentions through ancient rituals. Jan. 12 3-6:30 p.m. my805tix. com. Private residence, Address revealed to ticket holders, Atascadero.

SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP Have a topic, book, or article you wish to discuss with interested and interesting people? Join this weekly meeting to discuss it, or simply contribute your experiences and knowledge. Contact Mark Plater for instructions on entering the Chapel area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.noon (805) 528-7111. Coalesce Garden Chapel, 845 Main St., Morro Bay. SUNDAY SLOW FLOW Enjoy a soothing mix of Qi Gong movement and breathwork with restorative sound

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT

Cruise Control Contemporary in Cambria presents River, a showcase of new oil paintings by Big Sur-based artist Abigail Smith, which will debut on Saturday, Jan. 11, with an opening reception from 4 to 6 p.m. Originally from Templeton, Smith resides in a mountain cabin near the freshwater streams she depicted in her paintings on display in River, scheduled to remain on display through Monday, Feb. 10. For more info, visit cruisecontrolcambria.com.

and singing bowls. Visit site for tickets and more info. Jan. 19 6-8 p.m. $40. my805tix.com/. Dharma Yoga Loft, 1329 Spring Street, Paso Robles, (805) 434-1924.

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

TOPS SUPPORT GROUP: WEIGHT LOSS AND MAINTENANCE A self-help support group focusing on weight loss and maintenance. Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. (805) 242-2421. tops.org. Santa Margarita Senior Center, 2210 H St., Santa Margarita.

TOPS TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY Join for affordable and effective weightloss support. Sundays, 10-11 a.m. through Oct. 31 First visit is free. (805) 234-1026. Rancho Del Bordo Clubhouse, 10025 El

Camino Real, Atascadero, tops.org.

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

DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve

concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) 280-5800. margotschaal.com/ qigong. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and about the development of this area. Tours, led by docents, are free at 1:15 p.m Monday through Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Sundays, 2-3 p.m. and Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Free. (657) 465-9182. missionsanluisobispo. org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

FREE VIRTUAL QPR SUICIDE

PREVENTION TRAINING For participants to learn about community resources in Santa Barbara County and be able to recognize the warning signs of suicide for parents and adults (ages 18 and over) who work or live with youth between ages of 12-18. Offered in partnership with Family Services Agency of Santa Barbara and thanks to a grant from SAMHSA. Jan. 14 , 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 770-1593. youthwell. org/mental-health-first-aid. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

HANDSPRINGS AND AERIALS

CLINIC Children can build their skills and begin working on intermediate fundamentals. All levels are welcome. Jan. 11 1-3 p.m. $25. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com.

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

JBIRD’S BURLESQUE (40TH)

BIRTHDAY BASH Enjoy drag, live music, and dance performances with an 11 a.m. brunch and 6 p.m. variety burlesque show. For ages 21 and over. Jan. 18 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $29. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974, humdingerbrewing.com.

KIDS’ PARTY PARADISE: NEW YEAR

SOIREE Children ages 4 to 13 can enjoy pizza, movies, and gymnastics. No experience is necessary. Jan. 11 5-9:30 p.m. $50. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 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 naturebased 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, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Options: 2 day, 3 day, or 5 day. (805) 2426301. onecoolearth.org/play-grove.html. Jewish Community Center, 875 Laureate Lane, San Luis Obispo.

SLO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 119TH ANNUAL DINNER The SLO Chamber invites you to celebrate the work of their volunteers, 2024 Board Chair, and the 2024 Citizen of the Year. Visit site for tickets and more info. Jan. 18 6-9 p.m. $185. slochamber.org. Madonna Expo Center, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.

SLO CLIMATE COALITION 2025 NEW YEAR KICK-OFF PARTY Ring in the new year with food, drinks, live music and community. Jan. 16 5:30-8:30 p.m. $25. sloclimatecoalition.org. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-7300.

SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A good core group of friends who gather to discuss topics we love/ care about from movies, outings, music, or being new to the area. We come from all walks of life and most importantly support each other. Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. sloqueer. groups.io/g/lezbfriends. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime. CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 26

COURTESY IMAGE BY ABIGAIL SMITH

toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY

COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement.

Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace for this outdoor class which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email before attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

TECH BREW MEETUP Tech Brew is a free networking event where people interested in technology can hang out in an informal environment with a small TEDtalk-like presentation from an interesting speaker. Learn more online.

Second Monday of every month, 5-7 p.m. (805) 323-6706. meetup.com/softec/. StoryLabs, 102 Cross St, Suite 220, San Luis Obispo.

TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 540-6576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN

CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Second Sunday of every

month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT

GROUP This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated emotional support group to be heard, share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like your own. Second Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.

TRICKZONE PARKOUR AND TUMBLING CLINIC This two hour combo of tumbling and parkour builds childrens’ strength and courage. All levels are welcome. Jan. 18 1-3 p.m. $25. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo. com. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ARGENTINE TANGO DANCE LESSONS

This beginning dance class teaches the essentials of Argentine Tango. No partner or previous experience is needed. Sponsored by Arroyo Grande Parks & Recreation. Mondays, 6:30 p.m. through Feb. 24 $12 per class. (805) 473-5473. arroyogrande.org. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande.

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

BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS

Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 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.

BUTTERFLIES COMMUNICATION IN COLOR: GUIDED INTERPRETIVE TALK

Butterflies come in a multitude of colors, shapes, and sizes. RSVP with the phone number provided to come and learn about butterflies’ adaptations with Docent Peggy. Jan. 11 , 11 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 474-2664. centralcoastparks.org/ awn/. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.

LITTLE RANGERS: GIANTS OF THE

SEA Join an interpreter to learn all about the giants that live right in our backyard through exploration and play. RSVP with the phone number provided for children ages two to six. Jan. 19, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. (805) 474-2664. centralcoastparks. org/awn/. 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 dropin; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

Jordan Willoughby

Enterprise Account Executive

Bringing my experience in sales and project management to Astound to continue expanding the most advanced fiber network on the Central Coast!

I formerly delivered software solutions in manufacturing, with work in transportation, education and training.

I live for my family, food and the outdoors.

OCEANO’S BEAVERS: GUIDED INTERPRETIVE TALK AND WALK Join State Park Docent Dan to learn about the beavers in the Oceano Lagoon. RSVP at the phone number provided. Jan. 18 10 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 474-2664. centralcoastparks.org/awn/. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS

A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

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

SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details.

Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. (805) 904-6615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS

Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160$190. (805) 481-6399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

FRESH PRINTS

The Lompoc Valley Art Association presents California Wilds, a solo exhibition of block prints by local artist Angelina LaPointe, at Cypress Gallery through Sunday, Jan. 26. The show opened in early January and celebrates the beauty and charm of California’s diverse ecosystems. A closing reception will be held on Saturday, Jan. 25, from 1 to 3 p.m. For more details on the exhibit, visit lompocart.org.

FOOD & DRINK

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BREAKFAST ON THE BAY A monthly occasion that brings together the passionate citizens and business owners of the greater Estero Bay region in one place to deepen connections and share information. Breakfast is included with ticket price. Third Wednesday of every month, 7:30-9 a.m. $20 per member; $25 per non-member. (805) 7724467. morrochamber.org. Morro Bay

Krystyna Amaral

Enterprise Account Executive

I have worked in the telecom sales industry for 7 years, and have been a 22-year resident in San Luis Obispo county.

I’m a former business owner, and I believe in giving back to the community.

Fun fact:  I’m a pinball enthusiast.

Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay.

MORRO BAY MAIN STREET FARMERS MARKET Get fresh and veggies, fruit, baked goods, sweets, and handmade artisan crafts. Come have some fun with your local farmers and artisans and enjoy delicious eats while enjoying the fresh breeze of Morro Bay. Saturdays, 2:30-5:30 p.m. Varies. (805) 824-7383. morrobayfarmersmarket.com. Morro Bay Main Street Farmers Market, Main Street and Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY BRUNCH IS BACK Celebrate the second Sunday of the month with brunch. Enjoy FOOD & DRINK continued page 27

a two-hour cruise on the waterfront. Features fresh coffee, pastries, and more. Second Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $50. (805) 772-2128. chabliscruises.com. Chablis Cruises, 1205 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.

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 St., Templeton.

TACO TUESDAYS La Parilla Taqueria will be in the courtyard serving up their delicious tacos and tostadas. Menu typically includes barbacoa, chicken, and pastor tacos, as well as shrimp ceviche tostadas. Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. (805) 460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden. com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

TASTE OF TIN CITY WALKING TOUR

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET

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

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA NIGHT Live

multi-media trivia every Wednesday. Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to six players. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. headgamestrivia.com. Antigua Brewing, 1009 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 242-1167.

NAME THAT NOISE: MUSIC TRIVIA

A monthly special music-only trivia at Oak and Otter Brewing Co. Call ahead to reserve a table. Second Thursday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-2529.

QUEER TRIVIA Sip some cider, test your LGBTQ trivia knowledge, and learn new fun facts. Topic themes and hosts rotate each week. Prizes for winners. BYO food. Third Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 292-1500. Two Broads Ciderworks, 3427 Roberto Ct., suite 130, San Luis Obispo, twobroadscider.com.

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

SLO GRANGE HALL PANCAKE

BREAKFAST Join the SLO Grange Hall for a good old-fashioned pancake breakfast. Pancakes, bacon, eggs, juice and coffee; all for a low suggested donation price of $10, with proceeds to benefit SLO Grange Hall 639. Second Sunday of every month, 8-11 a.m. $10. (805) 543-0639. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

TRIVIA NIGHT Reservations are no longer required to play. Reservations are now for teams who want to guarantee a table to play. Tables available first come, first serve. Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. my805tix.com. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT PUB TRIVIA Bring your thinking cap as questions vary from pop culture, geography, to sports. There is a little for everyone. Prizes for the winning teams. Wednesdays, 6:308:30 p.m. Free. (805) 439-2529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

WEDNESDAY PUB TRIVIA Bring your

thinking caps as questions vary from pop culture, geography, to sports. There is a little for everyone. Prizes for the winning teams. Trivia provided by Geeks Who Drink. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 439-2529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES

New topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home. Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 8016627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

SECOND SATURDAY OPEN AIR

MARKET: LOS ALAMOS A carefully curated open air artisan and farm market. Features great vintage finds, handwoven and hand dyed textiles, hand-spun yarn, organic body care products, and locally grown organic eats. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 722-4338. Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos. ∆

event information to events@newtimesslo.com or submit online.

Arts

See coastal sights at Cambria Center for the Arts

The Cambria Center for the Arts (CCA) presents a new exhibition, The Local Scene—Sightings Along the Central Coast, which focuses on local land- and seascapes and hangs at 1350 Main St., Cambria, through Feb. 23 (gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday noon to 4 p.m.). The public is invited to an artists’ reception on Saturday, Jan. 11 (4:30 to 6 p.m.; free and includes entertainment and appetizers. Wine is available to purchase).

According to organizers, “This show is inspired by the images, ranging from our sweeping coastlines to, perhaps, a vintage signpost. Work may be rendered in any medium to celebrate our wondrous part of the world.”

Holly McCain’s painting, Beautiful Cambria Coast, looks north up the coastline at a series of points stretching into the distance with a hint of fog lingering over the surf line. Diane Moore’s The Fence is a lively watercolor depicting tall grasses growing around a picket fence. The show is presented by the Cambria Center for the Arts Mural, CCA’s first community mural located on the Cutruzzola Vineyards tasting room wall, which was a collaborative effort of 50 volunteers and inspired by Tigg Morales’ design. Email gallery@cambriaarts. org or call (805) 927-8190 for more information.

Palm Theatre hosts Fincher film fest

The SLO Film Center at the Palm Theatre presents the films of David Fincher during their Flickerhead Friday Night Feature series every Friday at 7 p.m. On Friday, Jan. 10, see 2002’s Panic Room starring Jodie Foster, Kristen Stewart, and Forest Whitaker, about a divorced woman and her diabetic daughter who must hide in their home’s safe room when three men break in looking for a missing fortune.

On Friday, Jan. 17, the Palm screens 2007’s Zodiac starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr., and Mark Ruffalo, about the hunt for the Zodiac killer that terrorized Northern California with a killing spree between 1968 through 1983.

On Friday, Jan. 24, see Fincher’s 2011 English language remake of the 2009 Swedish film The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Fincher’s version starring Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, and Christopher Plummer, follows the same tale of a journalist unraveling a mystery of a missing woman with the help of a computer hacker.

And finally on Friday, Jan. 31, the SLO Film Center concludes the Fincher retrospective with his 1996 crime thriller Se7en starring Morgan Freeman, Brad Pitt, Kevin Spacey, and Gwyneth Paltrow, about two detectives—a steadyhanded veteran and a brash rookie—hunting a serial killer acting out the seven deadly sins. See all the theater’s offerings at thepalmtheatre.com. ∆

—Glen Starkey

Teen angst

Froggy Phevoli’s young adult sci-fi novel insightfully examines adolescence

Zack Connor can read minds, but the 16-yearold’s superpower comes with a downside. Whenever he reaches into someone’s thoughts, his own thoughts are revealed.

He doesn’t know where his power comes from, and his overbearing mother, Carol, o ers little beyond her tacit disapproval of his ability. She won’t even tell him much about his father, who disappeared before he was born. His only friends are his two pet doves, Danielle and Allie, who he communicates with telepathically.

ings begin to look up when Zack meets Tamika Paige, a new classmate who, like him, has unusual silver eyes. She explains what his mother can’t or won’t: Zack is among a small group pf people called Occuarians who have special powers that unfortunately also come with a downside. She tells Zack about their annual gathering, Occ-Con, which may be the answer to nding his missing father.

So opens the new young adult novel, Side E ect, by Froggy Phevoli, who uses they/them as pronouns. ey grew up in Tulare and moved to San Luis Obispo at age 18 to attend Cal Poly, where they graduated in 2015 with a degree in journalism and a minor in psychology. eir hobbies include playing Pokémon, sampling and writing reviews of Mountain Dew avors, and designing custom Converse All Stars. ey currently run the Tackle Warehouse support center online chat feature, which means they spend their day writing responses to shing a cionados’ questions about gear.

Why a young adult novel for a debut?

“I was 16 years old when I rst came up with the idea,” Phevoli explained. “So it just felt natural to go for that genre since that was the phase of life I was in myself. Even though I was an actual adult by

COURTESY OF FROGGY PHEVOLI

In Cal Poly graduate Froggy Phevoli’s debut young adult novel, Side Effect, the protagonist discovers he’s an Occuarian, a member of a

You can buy a copy of Side Effect on Amazon at amazon.com/ Side-Effect-Froggy-Phevoli/dp/ B0DJVJBPD1.

the time I was working on the later drafts, I still tried to stay true the book’s original spirit.”

e story is set in 2015. Why?

“When I wrote the rst draft, 2015 was actually in the future,” they explained. “ at was around 2008. ... e two main reasons I never changed it later on were, one, I was worried I’d screw up the timeline of the entire story. I had already done the math to gure out things like characters’ birthdates, made sure I put the correct day of the week any time I referenced a date. If I changed the year that the book took place, I would have to do all of that all over again, and I’m not a numbers person, so the odds of making a mistake would have probably been high. Two, the world changed so much in 2020. I didn’t want to think about how COVID would a ect the Occuarian Convention or anything like that. It was much easier to just keep the story in a ‘before’ time period.”

else about the book around that concept. Coming up with all the di erent ways to ruin each superpower was really fun!”

e entire premise is very clever—people with special powers that come with an unfortunate side e ect. What inspired it?

“ e inspiration came one day when my mom made me run errands with her,” they said. “I was absolutely bored out of my mind, so I ended up vividly daydreaming in the car while we were in between stores. At some point, I started fantasizing about what I would do if a genie or some other magical, wish-granting entity gave me one wish, but it had to be something sel sh—like if I wasn’t allowed to wish for a cure for cancer, or an end to world hunger, or anything like that.

“At the time, I was going through a period of my life where I felt like I couldn’t understand anyone’s motivations,” they continued. “I was having various disagreements with various people, and it seemed like I was constantly asking ‘Why?’ and never getting any answers.”

So, the rst thing that popped into their head was a wish for mind-reading powers.

“ at way, I would always understand where the other person was coming from. But of course, in every story that involves granting wishes, there’s always a catch. ere’s always some sort of e Monkey’s Paw situation that makes the wisher regret it,” Phevoli said. “I asked myself, ‘What would be the worst possible consequence to a mind-reading power, to the point where I wouldn’t even want it anymore?’ e most obvious response to that, in my opinion, would be if other people could read my mind too. I developed everything

Phevoli had to create a whole new vocabulary. Occuarians are the humans with special powers and accompanying side e ects while Normlings are humans without special powers. Extranorms are “normal” humans who are unaware of Occuarians, and Intranorms are “normal” humans who are aware.

“Basically, the entire theme of the book is about embracing yourself for exactly who you are, aws and all—excluding aws such as being evil, of course. e made-up vocabulary was less about othering people and more about just making it easier to refer to certain groups or concepts,” they said. e book explores the discomforts of adolescence. Zack is a sh out of water, uncomfortable, insecure. Did this interest stem from Phevoli’s own adolescence?

“Yeah, teenage me was similar to Zack in a lot of ways,” they admitted. “I was very awkward and sheltered just like he is, though thankfully my parents weren’t as controlling as Zack’s mom. Everybody has insecurities, especially during adolescence, so I think that makes a character like Zack really relatable.”

Phevoli plans to expend the Occuarian universe into a series.

“ ere will be a prequel novel, a sequel novel, and a collection of short stories that all take place in the same universe. In regard to the short stories, some of them will be about expanding on Occuarian lore, and some of them will simply be ways to get to know some of the side characters better.” ∆

Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.

DOUBLE-EDGED
small group of silver-eyed people who have a superpower that comes with an unfortunate affliction.
IMAGE
THEY BY THE BAY New author Froggy Phevoli (they/them) explores the awkwardness of adolescence as well as celebrating differences in their debut novel, Side Effect

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

to

A date with death

Writer-director Robert Eggers ( e Witch, e Lighthouse, e Northman) helms this retro iteration of the classic vampire tale focusing on Ellen Hutter (Lily-Rose Depp), who’s haunted by vampire Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgård). Orlok travels by ship from Transylvania to Germany to be with Ellen, bringing the Black Plague with him. (132 min.)

NOSFERATU

What’s it rated? R

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

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

Glen Robert Eggers has created an instant classic, staying true to his source material. His vampire is truly nightmarish, death incarnate, completely devoid of sentimental romance. Orlok is simply a bringer of death, a metaphor for disease. Ellen is the center of the story, a beautiful young woman a icted with horrifying thoughts who is mysteriously connected to Count Orlok, who’s obsessed with her. Ellen’s husband, omas (Nicholas Hoult), is sent by his employer, Herr Knock (Simon McBurney), to Count Orlok’s castle in Transylvania’s Carpathian Mountains, where he is to present the count with the deed to his new stately but decrepit home in Wisborg, Germany. When the count arrives by ghost ship (having consumed the crew), Wisborg is ooded with plague-carrying rats. ough she resists, Ellen must submit herself to the count within three days, or he will kill omas and everyone she loves.

Anna ere’s nothing quite like gothic horror done well, and Eggers certainly seems to have his nger on the pulse on the genre. His lms are all striking, from the claustrophobic 1.19:1 aspect ratio of e Lighthouse to the stark and unsettling scenery in e Witch, and he has once again built a world that is just as much a character in the lm as the people are. While Ellen knows the trip for omas will end in disaster, she also knows that Count Orlok will not be stopped from coming to nd her. Using black and white imagery mixed in with color, Eggers nds a very clever way of

THE STICKY

What’s it rated? Unrated When? 2024

Where’s it showing? Amazon Prime

The incomparable Margo Martindale stars as Ruth Landry, a sugar maker who’s being pushed to her limit by Leonard Sr. (Guy Nadon) of the Syrup Federation. While this series is based on the true story of a $18 million maple syrup heist, this version strays far from actual events and people involved. In this fictionalized version, we have Remy (Guillame Cyr), who works as the sole security guard for the Federation keeping watch over the barrels of liquid gold it stores. He isn’t taken seriously by Leonard Sr., and his son, Leó (Mickael

pulling us from dreamland into reality as the characters battle with what they see while they sleep. It’s moody, and the dread is worn on all of their faces as time goes on and the count grows closer and closer to his nal destination.

Glen ere’s a lot of tension, and while I wouldn’t characterize the lm as frightful, despite a couple e ective jump scares, it is atmospheric and visually arresting. Cinematographer Jarin Blaschke returns to work with Eggers again, and each frame of the lm is superb. e sets, costumes, lighting—every element of mise en scène— feels impeccably planned. Skarsgård is excellent as Orlok, creating a rumbling voice and accent for the vampire. Depp is otherworldly, with her deep, dark eyes, and baleful visage. She looks haunted. Willem Defoe plays the Van Helsing-type character, Professor Albin Eberhart von Franz, and though he’s almost a caricature, Defoe plays it straight. e supernatural is real in Eggers’ world. e lm may not be especially scary,

Gouin)—while having a soft spot for his old pal Remy—doesn’t have it in him to stand up to his dad. Remy hooks up with Mike (Chris Diamantopoulos) after overhearing the henchman at a diner, and the two scheme to steal a bit of syrup—but not enough to ever get caught. Ruth joins in on the plot and the three stumble through disaster after disaster as the police try to solve the murder of Orval Steeks (Jason Cavalier), who wound up dead in a vat of maple syrup. The farce continues when Jamie Lee Curtis shows up as Bo, a real baddie. This ridiculous, fun series is in short and sweet 30-minute bites. You’ll binge it in no time. (six approximately 30-min. episodes)

—Anna

THE BIG HEIST

After her livelihood as a maple syrup farmer is threatened, Ruth Landry (Margo Martindale) enlists Remy Bouchard (Guillaume Cyr, left) and Chris Diamantopoulos) to steal barrels of syrup as revenge, in The Sticky, streaming on Amazon Prime.

IT’S WHAT’S INSIDE

What’s it rated? R When? 2024

but it is extraordinarily beautiful and well crafted. Eggers is a true auteur. ere’s nobody else making lms like his, and as good as his rst three features are, this may be his nest lm yet. Absolutely a must-see on the big screen. I’d watch it again right now.

Anna Skarsgård is e ective as the monster— grotesque and menacing and single-minded in his quest. Dafoe’s Eberhart von Franz gives the lm further push into the meat of the story and the inevitable conclusion. He’s putting together the puzzle that Ellen already knows the answer to in her heart but can’t bring herself to face. It’s all atmosphere, and Eggers is a master at world building. Everything about this is well executed and thought out; the attention to detail in costuming and set building is extraordinary. I agree, this is one to watch again. ∆

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

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Writer-director Greg Jardin helms this sci-fi black comedy about old college friends with complicated histories who get together at a pre-wedding party that devolves into a nightmare when one guest, Forbes (David Thompson), shows up with a suitcase containing an experimental device that allows users to swap bodies. What starts as a game to try to figure out who is in one another’s bodies takes a sinister turn when old jealousies and insecurities resurface.

Couple Shelby (Brittany O’Grady) and Cyrus (James Morosini) are on the rocks, and when

they get to the party, it becomes clear that Cyrus pines for social media influencer Nikki (Alucia Debnam-Carey). We also learn that none of the old friends have seen Forbes since he was expelled from college for bringing his high school-aged sister, Beatrice (Madison Davenport), to a drunken party. Is revenge afoot? The eight principal actors must pull off the neat trick of behaving, speaking, and gesturing like one of their co-stars, requiring viewers to struggle to know who’s inside whose body. When the lighting turns red, we see the truth. The final mystery is revealed in a coda, and I didn’t expect it at all. This is a fun little lowbudget gem. (103 min.) ∆

TRADING PLACES

A pre-wedding party of old college friends, each harboring secrets and grudges, descends into an existential nightmare when they experiment with a body-swapping device, in It’s What’s Inside, streaming on Netflix.

HAUNTED Lily-Rose Depp stars as Ellen Hutter, the object of a vampire’s obsession, in Nosferatu, inspired by Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel Dracula and Henrik Galeen’s screenplay for Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror (1922).
PHOTO COURTESY OF FOCUS FEATURES
PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX
COURTESY PHOTO BY JAN THIJS/AMAZON MGM STUDIOS

Music

Boot scootin’ boogie

Johnny Marfa and the Lights line dances into The Siren

Ilove a good band story, and Venice, California, country act Johnny Marfa and the Lights sure has one. Marfa was born in New Mexico and raised in Texas, and he calls Fort Worth home though his band is based in SoCal.

“Once, some yuppie jackass questioned his Texas roots after a sunset gig in LA, and it nearly came to fisticuffs,” the band’s story goes. “Luckily, Johnny’s charming, debonair personality and daunting 6-foot-3-inch frame prevailed on the lad, and everyone left as great friends and lifelong fans—as is the case at every Johnny Marfa and the Lights show.”

The band describes itself as “Equal parts Broken Spoke, Hollywood hotspot, and CBGB,” and calls their sound a “Southernfried, Cali-fied, Texas Tornado of good times.” For nearly a year, they’ve been the house band of LA’s famed rooftop honkytonk bar Desert 5 Spot, “Melting faces and driving the line-dance-crazy California crowd to hit the dance floor the right way— for some Texas Two Steppin’.”

This Saturday, Jan. 11, saddle up and head to a free matinee show at Morro Bay’s The Siren (21-and-older). If you want to get a taste of Marfa’s magic, head to YouTube and check out the band’s video for “Keep on L-I-V-I-N.”

Gold Dust Woman

Is it possible to name the best Stevie Nicks song? “Edge of Seventeen,” “Leather and Lace,” “Dreams,” “Rhiannon,” “Silver Springs,” “Crying in the Night.” The list goes on and on. Now 76, Stevie Nicks still tours. She’ll open for Billy Joel at Ford Field in Detroit on March 29, and she’s scheduled to play MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Aug. 8, but if you can’t make those shows, your best bet is seeing Stevie Nicks Illusion on Saturday, Jan. 11 (8 p.m.; 21-and-older; $30.12), at The Siren. They play Fleetwood Mac songs and hits from Nicks’ solo career.

Diana Grace channels 1970s-era Stevie Nicks. Monty Sommer re-creates Lindsey

Live Music

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.

JOAN BAEZ TRIBUTE CONCERT:

“THE LADY FROM THE HOUSE

IN THE TREE” Los Osos band Bay Love presents a 32-song acoustic experience, celebrating the life and career of Joan Baez. Visit the site for more info. Jan. 12 , 2-4 p.m. $20-$25.

Buckingham’s vocals and guitar work. Laurie Richardson stands in for Christine McVie (voice and keyboards). Dave Christensen delivers Mick Fleetwood’s drum style. Brett Scott rounds out the band with John McVie style bass.

The show will probably sell out and be standing-room only, though the club has a few reservable tables for $100 (email monte@ thesirenmorrobay.com for availability). Get ready to “Go Your Own Way.”

Psychobilly progenitors

Numbskull and Good Medicine are bringing The Meteors back to The Siren on Sunday, Jan. 12 (doors at 7 p.m.; 21-andolder; $22.35 at goodmedicinepresents. com). Formed in 1980 in London, they’re considered the U.K. pioneers of psychobilly— the mash-up of punk rock and 1950s rockabilly—a formula The Cramps pioneered in the U.S. Founding member P. Paul Fenech still leads the trio that’s touring in support of

STARKEY continued page 32

my805tix.com. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.

JOHNNY MARFA AND THE LIGHTS

Described as “a Southern-fried, Calified, Texas tornado of good times.” Jan. 11 , 2-5 p.m. Free admission. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.

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. Second Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (805) 900-5444. Lunada Garden Bistro, 78 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos.

LU LU AND THE COWTIPPERS Enjoy live tunes from this Central Coast staple. Jan. 10, 7:30 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.

THE METEORS Attendees can look forward to a high energy rock show.

Jan. 12 7-10 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.

OPEN MIC NIGHT Each Wednesday, enjoy this Open Mic Night in the downstairs dining area. Grab some friends and show off your talents. Food and drink service will be available. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. Free. (805) 995-3883. schoonerscayucos. com. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos.

PAINTED MANDOLIN Described as “a plugged-in acoustic quartet of original compositions, reupholstered covers, and reimagined medleys.” Jan. 17, 7-10 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.

STEVIE NICKS ILLUSION A live

tribute to Nicks. For ages 21 and over. Jan. 11 8-10:30 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

BEETHOVEN’S FOURTH AND EIGHTH Symphony of the Vines presents this program, as part of its 2024-2025 season. Celebrate the New Year with Beethoven in a beautiful setting. Jan. 12 , 4 p.m. $35; $30; $15. (805) 235-0687. symphonyofthevines.org. Mission San Miguel Arcángel, 775 Mission St., San Miguel.

FRIDAY NIGHT DJ Weekly DJ series, with a different DJ every Friday. Presented by friends at Traffic Record store in Atascadero. Come listen,

dance, drink, and unwind every Friday. All ages event; no cover charge. Fridays, 7-10 p.m. (805) 460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

HOW TO ACTUALLY DRUM Come see what 2002 Drum Corps International World Champion Sam Rabourn has to share. He’s a California credentialed music educator. Kids under 8 get in for free. Jan. 18 , 1-2:30 p.m. and Jan. 19, 1-2:30 p.m. $20. (619) 708-9321. MeowfaceMusic.com. Atascadero Chamber of Commerce, 6907 A El Camino Real, Atascadero.

LIVE MUSIC ON

GET LIT Johnny Marfa and the Lights play a free matinee show at The Siren on Jan. 11 , bringing their swaggering Southern-fried sounds to Morro Bay.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHNNY MARFA
NICKS’ HITS Diana Grace of Stevie Nicks Illusion will re-create the sights and sounds of the famed Fleetwood Mac vocalist when they play The Siren on Jan. 11
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SIREN
SHOOTING STARS Numbskull and Good Medicine present The Meteors at The Siren on Jan. 12 , where the U.K. band will combine punk swagger with ’50s rock ’n’ roll to create brain-melting psychobilly.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SIREN
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

their 24th album, 2024’s 40 Days a Rotting

“The Meteors started 45 years ago as a reaction against the soft rockabilly that was popular at that time,” their bio explains. “They have now evolved to become the acknowledged ‘Kings of Psychobilly.’ Their audience has continually expanded, and includes not just psychobillies, but everybody from rockabillies and punks, to bikers, and most alternatives. They are the original creators of psychobilly music, and although they have spawned hundreds of imitations, The Meteors are proud to be the only pure psychobilly band ever. Their songs are inspired by their personal experiences and interests.”

A-Mays-ing!

Sarah Vaughan, Phil Woods, Benny Golson, Red Mitchell, Gerry Mulligan, Frank Sinatra … clearly, pianist Bill Mays has collaborated with some of the giants of the jazz world in his sixdecade-long career. This Saturday, Jan. 11, the SLO County Jazz Federation will host the Bill Mays Trio at SLO’s Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church (7:30 p.m.; all ages; $35 general, $25 for Jazz Fed members, and $10 for students at my805tix.com).

“Bill Mays is a masterful pianist as well as a prolific composer and arranger,” the Jazz Fed announced. “After a lengthy tenure in Los Angeles working in the Hollywood recording studios, he relocated to New York City in 1984 and has played with numerous top jazz artists at all the major venues. His NYC based trio includes Dean Johnson on bass and Ron Vincent on drums.” Visit slojazz.org for more information.

Ludwig 4 and 8

Sure, Ludwig von Beethoven’s 9th and 5th symphonies might be best known, but his 4th and 8th are probably his most underrated. Leonard Bernstein called the slow prelude of the 1st movement of the 4th symphony

a “mysterious introduction which hovers around minor modes, tip-toeing its tenuous weight through ambiguous unrelated keys and so reluctant to settle down into its final B-flat major.”

Beethoven called his 8th “my little symphony in F,” and it’s surely his lightest— joyful, lacking a slow movement, and breaking from tradition by making the 4th movement the symphony’s heaviest.

Symphony of the Vines will present these two symphonies at Mission San Miguel this Sunday, Jan. 12 (4 p.m.; all ages; $35 general, $30 senior, $15 student at my805tix.com).

Immigration song

The United States has always had a complicated relationship with immigration. Aside from our indigenous population, we are a nation of immigrants, and yet we’ve had periods of anti-immigration sentiment. In 1917, the U.S. Congress enacted the first restrictive immigration law. In 1924, the Johnson-Reed Act further restricted immigration. The naked bigotry of Operation Wetback began in June of 1954, and with the impending return of Trump to the presidency and his threats of mass deportation, our country appears to be poised for another round of ugly xenophobia. Seeing as how the contribution of immigrants brought America everything from Appalachian to jazz to zydeco music, it’s worth remembering and celebrating our immigrant heritage.

Next Thursday, Jan. 16, composer and guitarist Sungmin Shin will present Generation One—Music of Immigration in the Davidson Music Center, Room 218, on the Cal Poly campus (11:10 a.m.; all ages; free). Shin will explore “a wide range of styles, genres, and idioms, which is a culmination of the immigrant experience,” according to the Music Department. “The core theme of the program deals with identity and authenticity as an Asian American performing artist living in the U.S. through the lens of the guitar.” Shin was born in Korea and now teaches at the University of Buffalo in New York, and his “genre bending program lives without borders and draws from Brahms to Debussy, King Crimson to Steve Reich, Jobim to Villa-Lobos, Seo Taiji to Stevie Wonder, and more.” ∆ Contact Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

JAZZ FINGERS Famed jazz pianist Bill Mays will lead the Bill Mays Trio through its paces when they play a SLO Jazz Fed show on Jan. 11 , in SLO’s Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church.
THE IMMIGRANT EXPERIENCE Koreanborn guitarist and University of Buffalo Associate Professor Sungmin Shin will present his free concert Generation One— Music of Immigration on Jan. 16 , in Cal Poly’s Davidson Music Center
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUNGMIN SHIN

Enjoy live jazz under the stars at the beautiful Pony Club at The Hotel Cheval. Jan. 11 5-8 p.m. No cover. (805) 226-9995. hotelcheval.com/pony-clubbar-lounge. Pony Club Bar and Lounge at The Hotel Cheval, 1021 Pine St, Paso Robles.

OPEN MIC NIGHT Hosted by The Journals 805 (John and Dylan Krause). Mondays, 9 p.m. Pine Street Saloon, 1234 Pine St., Paso Robles.

SINGING HANDS CHILDREN’S CHOIR

A unique performing arts group that performs across the state for deaf festivals, service organizations, churches, fairs, and other outlets. New members always welcome. Registration open weekly. Mondays, 5-6:30 p.m. $45 tuition per month. singinghandschildrenschoir.com/. Singing Hands Children’s Choir and Performing Arts, 1413 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

SUNNY WRIGHT TRIO With guitarist Tom Bethke and bassist Ken Hustad. Jan. 19 Sensorio, 4380 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles, (805) 226-4287, sensoriopaso.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BILL MAYS TRIO This NYC-based trio will hit the stage. Get tickets and more info at the link. Jan. 11 7:30-9:30 p.m. $40. my805tix.com. Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.

BIRTHDAY GIRL AND DILL

PICKLESON Come hear some original music from Birthday Girl, a melodic indie rock band from San Luis Obispo. No cover charge. Great beer and pies available. Jan. 11 , 7-10 p.m. bangthedrumbrewery.com/. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo.

BOOTS Grab your boots for a dance lesson from 7 to 8 p.m. that will rotate between line, advanced line, and partner dances, followed by social dancing with DJ Rich. Jan. 18 7-11 p.m. $20. nexusslo.com. Nexus SLO, 3845 S Higuera St.( Lower Level), San Luis Obispo, (805) 904-7428.

BRASS MASH AT LIBERTINE BREW

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of high-energy music as Brass Mash delivers its unique fusion of rock and pop hits with dance-worthy beats and infectious energy. Jan. 10, 6-10 p.m. my805tix.com/. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337.

FAMILY FUN FRIDAYS: A FAMILY

DANCE CLASS

Bring the whole family for a 45-minute dance class that will cover the most popular line dances for all ages. Jan. 17 5:30-7 p.m. $10. nexusslo.com. Nexus SLO, 3845 S Higuera St.( Lower Level), San Luis Obispo, (805) 904-7428.

FREQUENCY WITHIN, MECHANICAL GHOST, BANDWIDTH, GABE MILLER, AND CORPORAL PSYCHE LIVE Spend

a night with five SoCal-based bands and musicians, whose sounds range from alternative rock to EDM, from electronic to heavy pyschedelic. Visit site for tickets and more info. Jan. 19, 2-7 p.m. $13. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974, humdingerbrewing.com.

HEAVY METAL SATURDAYS With No Warning Shots, Bandwidth, Kavalkade, Prey4Reign, WayIIStoned, and Mechanical Ghost. Jan. 11 6:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974.

LIVE MUSIC FROM GUITAR WIZ BILLY FOPPIANO AND MAD DOG Join “Guitar Wiz” Billy Foppiano and his trusty side kick Mad Dog for a mix of blues, R&B, and more. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (805) 544-2100. Bon Temps Creole Cafe, 1819 Osos Street, San Luis Obispo, bontempscreolecafe.com/index.htm.

MARYNA KRUT A Eurovision finalist, Maryna Krut is a Ukrainian singer and virtuoso of the bandura, a stringed instrument unique to Ukraine. Her compelling, soulful performances evoke both folk traditions and modern sensibilities, with pop and jazz flourishes. Concert presented by Cal Poly Arts. Jan. 17 7:30 p.m. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts.org/20242025season/maryna-krut. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

MININOVA Kenny Lee Lewis brings MiniNova to CongregationHouse. Enjoy live music from this electrifying band, known to captivate audiences with its unique blend of funky Latin rock. Jan. 10, 7 p.m. my805tix.com/. CongregationHouse, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo.

THE SAN FRANCISCO YIDDISH

COMBO The SFYC is led by cellist Rebecca Roudman and fuses Klezmer music with blues, folk, and jazz. Visit site for tickets and more info. Jan. 16 , 6-8:30 p.m. $45. my805tix.com. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo.

STILL NOT A TOUR AT HUMDINGER

SLO Gehrig Kniffen and Green Room are celebrating the release of their new project ‘97, with a night at Humdinger. Visit site for tickets and more info. Jan. 17, 6-9 p.m. $10. (805) 835-6453. posh.vip. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo.

W. TERRENCE SPILLER PIANO

RECITAL Professor Emeritus W. Terrence Spiller will perform Béla Bartok’s demanding Sonata and Franz Schubert’s legendary “Wanderer” Fantasy, among various selections. Jan. 10 7:30 p.m. $22 general; $12 students. (805) 756-4849. music. calpoly.edu. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

WAVZINE PRESENTS: THE LET DOWNS AND AVALYNN FATALE 75 percent of proceeds donated to Planned Parenthood. Visit website for tickets to the show. Jan. 17, 6-10 p.m. my805tix.com/. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

HEART AND SOUL: SONG AND RHYTHM CIRCLE As a universal language, music transcends cultures, perspectives, and life experiences, offering a joyful and nourishing way to slow down, create beauty, and envision a more harmonious world. Jan. 17, 6-7:30 p.m. my805tix.com. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.

KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly event with barbecue offerings

and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, (805) 925-3500.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS BITES AND BEATS AT THE STOCKYARD Features live music, food trucks, and more. Standing room only. Jan. 18 , 11 a.m. my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S. Broadway St., Orcutt, (805) 934-3777.

HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

LIVE MUSIC AND FOOD BY LOBO BUTCHER SHOP Check out live music every Friday night from a variety of artists at Steller’s Cellar in Old Orcutt. Dinner served by Lobo Butcher Shop between 5 and 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 5-9 p.m. Varies according to food options. (805) 623-5129. stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt. MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO

ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/ lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

AFTER EIGHT BAND LIVE Join this eight-member cover band for a night of live music, as the musicians fuse a diverse range of sounds from pop to rock to country and Spanish hits. Visit the link for tickets to this all-ages show. Jan. 17, 7 p.m.-midnight $18. my805tix.com/. Flower City Ballroom, 110 West Ocean Avenue, Lompoc.

KARAOKE AT COLD COAST BREWING CO. Pick out a song, bring your friends, and get ready to perform. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 819-0723, coldcoastbrewing.com.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com. ∆

SLO CLIMATE COALITION

Shrine on

Locals Joe and Justine Florence hope for a February launch of their new brewery at SLO’s Duncan Alley

When Joe and Justine Florence moved to Justine’s hometown of San Luis Obispo in 2022, they were fulfilling a long-held dream.

After two decades in Seattle—where Joe worked in the snowboarding apparel industry and at one point owned a screen-printing business, and Justine earned a registerednurse degree—the couple was eager to turn Joe’s homebrewing hobby into a new career.

“Through my screen-printing business I started printing merchandise for local breweries in Seattle, and that was when I fell in love with the craft-brewing industry and became an avid home brewer,” Joe said. “As my love of brewing grew, I decided to get more serious and attended the American Brewer’s Guild (based in Vermont), where I received a diploma in craft brewing.”

It’s hop-pening!

Shrine Brewing, located at 3197 Duncan Road, unit B, in San Luis Obispo, will be open Wednesday and Thursday from 2 to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. For more information, visit shrinebrewing.com. Stay tuned for Shrine’s softopening announcement on Instagram @shrinebrewing.

Justine grew up in SLO, where her family still lives, he said, so they always envisioned moving to the Central Coast to open a brewery of their own.

Joe was accepted into an apprentice program at Firestone Walker Brewing Company in Paso Robles, then two years later the couple nabbed a 1,085-square-foot spot at beverage hub Duncan Alley just south of downtown SLO.

Shrine Brewery was born and will be open soon.

“We just loved the name Shrine,” Justine said. “[It] resonates with us because we feel it perfectly encapsulates our special space.”

That space is a combined brewery and tasting room for up to 40 guests.

The Shrine team is joined by Max Lachowyn, a lead brewer from Firestone Walker.

“[Max] is a great friend of ours and a partner in Shrine Brewing. He will be brewing alongside Joe, and we are so excited to have him be a part of the team,” Justine said. “Max will continue working full time at Firestone while assisting us along the way.”

While Joe is presently the company’s only full-time employee, Justine juggles responsibilities with her secondary job as an oncology nurse at Dignity Health in Arroyo Grande.

When not at the hospital, she helps with “designing the aesthetics of the tap room,” she said, “and I plan to be involved with the daily tap room operations, the creative direction of Shrine as a brand, and with our social media presence.”

“I’m striving for a welcoming, comfortable, and curated ambiance where people can enjoy great beer and good company,” she added. “We are big music lovers, so we’ll always have good tunes playing and the occasional DJ.”

The Florences also enlisted the help of Pasadena artist Brent Allen Spears, aka Shrine, to transform the walls of their establishment into a conversation piece.

“The artist … is somebody that I’ve followed on Instagram for a while,”

Justine said, “and the name is just a wonderful coincidence.

“I love his art and am so happy we have the opportunity to display it in the brewery. The mural is something of Shrine’s own choosing as we gave him free rein to work his magic. He doesn’t generally take direction. He just shows up, gets inspiration, and starts painting. We gave him our color preferences, but other than that we trusted his creative expression.”

Aesthetics aside, the primary lure of Shrine

will be its liquid lineup.

“All our brewing efforts will be meticulous, and quality will be our main priority,” Joe said. “The best American hops are going to come from the Pacific Northwest, specifically Yakima Valley, Washington, so we will source mainly from there. We’re also going to

BEYOND BREW Shrine Brewing offers memorabilia including shirts, hats, and hooded sweatshirts. Proprietor Joe Florence created the company logo.
COURTESY PHOTO BY JOE FLORENCE
FLAVOR continued page 36
TAP TEAM Shrine Brewing founders Joe and Justine Florence and partner Max Lachowyn, right, survey their nearly complete space in San Luis Obispo following a year of planning and renovation.
COURTESY PHOTO BY NATALIE RODRIGUEZ
BRING ON THE HEAT Shrine Brewing proprietor Joe Florence examines the boil kettle, which will be used for boiling wort, a primary step in the brewing process. Wort is a sugary liquid solution extracted from mashed grains.
COURTESY PHOTO BY NATALIE RODRIGUEZ

Advisory Body Recruitment

Help shape the future of your community! Application opportunities: Apply before: 1/31/2025 5:00 p.m.

CONFERENCE & VISITORS BUREAU BOARD / LODGING BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD

PARKING ADVISORY COMMITTEE

PARKS, RECREATION & BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION

PLANNING COMMISSION

TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE

To apply online, visit: www.pismobeach.org/ABapply

For more information:

• www.pismobeach.org/advisorybodies

• cityclerk@pismobeach.org

• City Clerk’s Office: (805) 773-7003

or text

We are excited to welcome John B. Cotter, M.D., to ADV Vision! With over 4 decades of trusted experience, Dr. Cotter, a highly skilled Glaucoma, Cornea and General Ophthalmolgy specialist, is now partnering with ADV Vision’s Dr. Adam Abroms—a cutting-edge ophthalmologist known for delivering innovative eye care.

Together, they provide world-class services across California’s Central Coast, including LASIK, cataract surgery, lens implants, glaucoma treatment, and general eye care. If you’ve been a patient of Dr. Cotter, or are seeking exceptional eye care, we invite you to schedule your appointment today! We are also accepting new patients!

Dr. Adam Abroms
Dr. John B. Cotter

import some exciting varieties from New Zealand, Australia, and Germany.”

Lachowyn added that they’re “big fans of the recent evolutions of the West Coast IPA style, so we will continue to explore and innovate in that space.

“We’re also loving the resurgence of American craft lager brewing, especially on the West Coast, so expect to see some refreshing and aromatic lagers from us as well.”

Aside from that, Shrine plans to routinely brew traditional English and Belgian styles. But, Lachowyn said that one thing he doesn’t expect Shrine to brew are sour or wild beers.

The bottom line, he continued, is “if we don’t love it, we won’t serve it.”

During the soft opening, which has yet to be announced, the team will serve draft beer only, with packaged brews forthcoming. Snacks will be available as well.

“For nonalcoholic options, we’re planning on having sparkling water, Olipop, and kombucha,” Justine said. “We’ll also have Shrine merchandise for sale. Joe designed the logo, and we have various hat styles, shirts, and hoodies available. We’re hoping to have more merchandise available soon.”

As the planned February opening looms, the Florences are putting the finishing

touches on their new enterprise.

“This is something we’ve been talking about for a very long time,” Justine said. “It’s really exciting and nerve-racking to see it come to fruition.”

And the icing on the cake is coming home.

“I am thrilled to be close to my family again and be back on the Central Coast,” she said. ∆

Flavor Writer Cherish Whyte can’t wait to sample Shrine’s debut lineup Reach her at cwhyte@newtimesslo.com.

SERENDIPITOUS DESIGN Shrine Brewing in San Luis Obispo boasts a mural created by Pasadena artist Shrine, who coincidentally shares the same name as the brewery.

FORD FOCUS SE HB

2015 VOLVO XC60 3.2 PREMIER PLUS SUV

3.2 V6 Turbo, 6spd auto trans, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, panroof, 2pseats, silver, gray lthr, alloys. #625616 $9,988

2016 JEEP PATRIOT SPORT 4WD

2.4 4cyl, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, tw, cc, am/ fm/cd, 101k miles, very nice, dk blue. #668495 $9,988

5.7 Hemi, V8, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, nav, pseats, lthr, xlnt servicing,126k. #647948

This Business Is Conducted By An Individual Sara Margaret Pauls (6920 Serra Ave, Atascadero, CA 93422). State of California. This Statement Was Filed With The County Clerk Of San Luis Obispo On 12/11/2024 Hereby Certify That This Copy Is A Correct Copy Of The Statement On File In My Office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, mstiletto, Deputy. Exp. 12/11/2029. December 26, 2024, January 2, 9, 16, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2024-2553 (12/19/2024)

New Filing

The Following Person is Doing Business As: SILVER SAGE, 1150 Peach Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. San Luis Obispo County. This Business Is Conducted By An Individual Laura Gaither (1150 Peach Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401). This Statement Was Filed With The County Clerk Of San Luis Obispo On 12/19/2024. I Hereby Certify That This Copy Is A Correct Copy Of The Statement On File In My Office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, mmaltby, Deputy. Exp. 12/19/2029.

December 26, 2024, January 2, 9, 16, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2024-0020

TRANSACTION BUSINESS DATE (01/03/2025)

New Filing

The following person is doing business as, GINI PROPERTY 200 Earthwood Lane, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. San Luis Obispo County. Gini Property (200 Earthwood Lane, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401). State of California This business is conducted by A CA Corporation /s/ Gini Property, Thomas Crottogini, President. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 01/03/2025 I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, mkatz Deputy. Exp. 01/03/2030.

January 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2024-2273 (N/A) New Filing

The following person is doing business as Person Is Doing Business As: FLORESCA 249 Montana Way, Los Osos, CA 93402. San Luis Obispo County. This Business Is Conducted By An Individual Jessica Rae Sofranko (249 Montana Way Los Osos, CA 93402). State of California. This Statement Was Filed With The County Clerk Of San Luis Obispo On 11/04/2024 Hereby Certify That This Copy Is A Correct Copy Of The Statement On File In My Office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, atrujillo, Deputy. Exp. 11/04/2029. December 19, 26, 2024, January 2, 9, 2025

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2024-2281

TRANSACTION BUSINESS DATE (09/01/2024) New Filing

The following person is doing business as, HONEY BELLY, HONEY BELLY KOREAN BBQ 1127 Broad St. #B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. County of

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 January 14th, 2025, on or after 10:00

A.M., property in storage units. Auction is to be held online at www.storagetreasures.com.

Nathen Righetti (20x8)

Ellen Ramirez (24x8)

Purchases must be paid for at the time of sale in CASH ONLY. All purchased items sold as is, where is. Items must be removed at the time of the sale. The sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Advertiser reserves the right to bid.

Dated December 30th, 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

Ad to run January 2nd and January 9th, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF BULK SALE

(Division 6 of the Commercial Code)

Escrow No. 889481-SJ

(1) Notice is hereby given to creditors of the within named Seller(s) that a bulk sale is about to be made on personal property hereinafter described.

(2) The name and business addresses of the seller are:

CAMBRIA CAFE INC., 2282

MAIN ST., CAMBRIA, CA 93428

(3) The location in California of the chief executive office of the Seller is: SAME AS ABOVE

(4) The names and business address of the Buyer(s) are: CAMBRIA CAFE LLC, 2282 MAIN ST., CAMBRIA, CA 93428

(5) The location and general description of the assets to be sold are TRADENAME, GOODWILL, LEASE, LEASEHOLD IMPROVEMENTS, COVENANT NOT TO COMPETE, TOGETHER WITH THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE(S): 628873 of that certain business located at: 2282 MAIN ST., CAMBRIA, CA 93428

(6) The business name used by the seller(s) at that location is:

CAMBRIA CAFE

(7) The anticipated date of the bulk sale is 01/28/2025 at the office of UNITY ESCROW, INC., 3600 WILSHIRE BLVD., SUITE 900 LOS ANGELES, CA 90010, Escrow No. 889481-SJ, Escrow Officer: STACEY LEE.

(8) Claims may be filed with Same as "7" above.

(9) The last date for filing claims is 01/27/2025.

(10) This Bulk Sale IS subject to Section 6106.2 of the Uniform Commercial Code.

(11) As listed by the Seller, all other business names and addresses used by the Seller within three years before the date such list was sent or delivered to the Buyer are: "NONE".

Dated: DECEMBER 3, 2024

Transferees: CAMBRIA CAFE LLC, a California Limited Liability

Company By:/S/ ANTONIO BONILLA GUTIERREZ, MANAGER

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

CASE NUMBER: 24CV0663

To all interested persons:

Petitioner: Walter David Colvin filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Walter David Colvin PROPOSED NAME: Walter David Sol. 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: February 6, 2025, 9:00 am Dept. 2, in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1035 Palm Street, Rm 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: December 26, 2024. /s/: Craig Van Rooyen, Judge of the Superior Court. January 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 24CV0664

To all interested persons: Petitioner: Zyanya Guadalupe Magna filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Zyanya Guadalupe Magana PROPOSED NAME: Zyanya Guadalupe Sol. 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: February 6, 2025, 9:00 am Dept. 2, in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1035 Palm Street, Rm 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: December 26, 2024. /s/: Craig Van Rooyen Judge of the Superior Court. January 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

NEW FILE NO. 2024-2584

OLD FILE NO. 2023-1504

COOL HAND LUKE’S, 1111 Riverside Avenue Suite 201, Paso Robles, CA 93446. San Luis Obispo County. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 12/24/2024. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: GDC Lukes’s, LLC (810 Fiero Lane Suite 100 San Luis Obispo, CA 93405). This business was conducted by a Limited Partnership, Gregory A. Graber, Managing Member (General Partner of LP). This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 12/24/2024. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By atrujillo, Deputy Clerk. January 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

CASE NUMBER: 24CVP0371

To all interested persons:

Petitioner: Vincente Francisco Lopez, Rosa Vazquez Sabino filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Nelson Fransisco Vazquez, Vincente Fransisco Lopez PROPOSED NAME: Nelson Francisco Vazquez, Vicente Francisco Lopez. 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: January 29, 2025 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. 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: December 9, 2024.

/s/: MC Kelley, Judge of the Superior Court.

December 19, 26, 2024, January 2, 9, 2025

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

CASE NUMBER: 24CVP0408

To all interested persons:

Petitioner: November Dawn Cardinali filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: November Dawn Cardinali PROPOSED NAME: Gina Dawn Fant. 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: February 19, 2025, 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. Paso Robles Branch. 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: December 17, 2024. /s/: MC Kelley, Judge of the Superior Court. January 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME

NEW FILE NO. 2024-2603 OLD FILE NO. 2024-1442

ROCK’N’ROBLES GRILL & PIZZA KITCHEN, 2140 Heritage Loop Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446. San Luis Obispo County. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 07/03/2024. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Rock’n’Robles Grill & Pizza Kitchen (2140 Heritage Loop Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446). This business was conducted by a Corporation Rock’n’Robles Grill & Pizza Kitchen, Seakngim Song. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 12/30/2024. hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mstiletto, Deputy Clerk. January 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME

NEW FILE NO. 2024-2610

OLD FILE NO. 2021-1150

TRAUMA HEALING CENTER,1411

Marsh St Suite 201, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. San Luis Obispo County. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 05/05/2021. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Trauma Healing Center Marriage and Family Therapy Corp, Elaine Power, President (1411 Marsh St Suite 201, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401). This business was conducted by a Corporation Trauma Healing Center Marriage and Family Therapy Corp., Elaine Power, President. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 12/31/2024. hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By atrujillo, Deputy Clerk.

January 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

NEW FILE NO. 2024-2400

OLD FILE NO. 2024-1951

SLO TOWN STUDIOS, 5430 Ontario Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 09/11/2024. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Patrick Sean Vance (5430 Ontario Road San Luis Obispo, CA 93405). This business was conducted by An Individual Patrick Sean Vance. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 11/21/2024. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mmaltby, Deputy Clerk.

December 26, 2024, January 2, 9, 16, 2025

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

NEW FILE NO. 2024-2428 OLD FILE NO. 2020-2457

STANLEY STEEMER, 899 S 4th Street, Grover Beach, CA 93401. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 12/09/2020. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: OLMF Inc (899 S 4th Street Grover Beach CA 93433). This business was conducted by A Corporation OLMF Inc, Vladan Stajic, President. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 11/25/2024. hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mmaltby, Deputy Clerk.

January 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

NEW FILE NO. 2024-2613

OLD FILE NO. 2024-0554

DEEP STEAM CARPET CLEANERS, 8415 Morro Rd, Atascadero, CA 93422. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 03/04/2024. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Central Coast Casualty Restoration, Inc (8145 Morro Rd Atascadero CA 93422). This business was conducted by a Corporation Central Coast Casualty Restoration, Inc, Ruth Snyder, Corporate Secretary. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 12/31/2024. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mmaltby, Deputy Clerk. January 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

NEW FILE NO. 2024-2616

OLD FILE NO. 2020-0555

THE CHILDREN’S GARDEN, 701 Crocker St, Templeton, CA 93465. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 03/02/2020. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Jeanne R Hunt (174 Wessels Way Templeton CA 93465). This business was conducted by an individual Jeanne R Hunt, owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 12/31/2024. hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mstiletto, Deputy Clerk. January 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025

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PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, the Pismo Beach City Council will hold a public hearing in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, for the following purpose: PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA:

Address: Citywide

Applicant: City of Pismo Beach

Description: A Public Hearing approving integrated Solid Waste Service Rates by South County Sanitary Service for customers receiving solid waste services within the city, effective January 1, 2025 and each January 1 from 2026 through 2029 via the New Solid Waste Rate Adjustment Methodology and 2025 Rates.

Details about ways to participate in this hearing will be provided on the agenda posted for the meeting online at pismobeach.org/ agenda, and on the bulletin board at City Hall. The agenda will be posted in the afternoon of January 16, 2025.

You have a right to comment on these projects and their effect on our community. Interested persons are invited to participate in the hearing or otherwise express their views and opinions regarding the proposed projects. Emailed comments may be submitted to citycouncil@pismobeach.org; staff cannot guarantee that emailed comments submitted after the start of the meeting will be given full consideration before action is taken. Written comments may be delivered or mailed to the City Clerk’s Office at 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449, prior to the meeting, or hand-delivered during the meeting no later than the comment period for this item.

Oral comment may be provided prior to the meeting by calling 805773-7005 and leaving a voice message. Please state and spell your name, and identify your item of interest. Oral comment may also be made during the meeting by attending the meeting in person in the Council Chamber at City Hall. Please refer to the agenda for this meeting for specific instructions for participation.

Staff reports, plans and other information related to these projects are available for public review from the City Clerk’s Office, by emailing City Clerk Erica Inderlied at einderlied@pismobeach.org.

The meeting agenda and staff report will be available no later than the Thursday before the meeting and may be obtained upon request by mail or by visiting www.pismobeach.org/agenda. The Council meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and streamed on the City’s website.

PLEASE NOTE:

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

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

Erica Inderlied City Clerk

January 9, 2025

The San Luis Obispo Council of Governments (SLOCOG) will hold a public hearing to receive public testimony on Unmet Transit Needs and Unmet Bike & Pedestrian Improvements within the County of San Luis Obispo and its seven cities. The hearing will be held during the SLOCOG Board meeting on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 9:00 a.m.

Unmet Transit Needs and Bike & Pedestrian Improvements requests can also be submitted online, by phone, fax, email, mail, or in person by February 12, 2025. Submissions can be made online at slocog.org/transitneeds; by phone at (805) 597-8022; by fax at (805) 781-5703; by email at: unmet_needs@slocog.org; and by mail or in person at 1114 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.

SLOCOG, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, is committed to providing special accommodations and translation services to those interested in participating in public hearings. Please note that a 48-hour notice is needed to honor your request. Call (805) 781-4219 to make arrangements. Visit www.slocog.org for the agenda and meeting details. This SLOCOG meeting will be held in person at the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors Chambers, Katcho Achadjian Government Center San Luis Obispo County, 1055 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.

Members of the public may also submit written comments for this meeting by email or mail: Email: pio@slocog.org by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025

Mail to: Clerk of the Board, SLOCOG, 1114 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. Mailed written comments must be received by SLOCOG no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025. December 19, 2024 & January 9, 2025

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, January 21, 2025, 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 ITEM:

• The City Council will review an appeal of the Planning Commission’s decision to approve a Conditional Use Permit to establish a cannabis retail storefront, Embarc SLO, at 2400 Broad Street (USE-0266-2024, APPL-0608-2024). The project is categorically exempt from environmental review under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section § 15301 (Existing Facilities). Address: 2400 Broad Street, APN 053-153-005, SPEC-0020-2024; Case #: APPL-0608-2024.

For more information, contact Ivana Gomez, Cannabis Business Coordinator, for the City’s Community Development Department at (805) 781-7147 or by email, igomez@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/mayorand-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.

January 9, 2025

SEALED BIDS will be received by the City Clerk, or designee, of the City of El Paso de Robles until January 16, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. for the Public Safety Training Facility, DPW Project No. 24-26. Please be certain that any bid submitted is sealed and addressed and noted as follows:

City Clerk

City of El Paso de Robles

1000 Spring Street Paso Robles, CA 93446

Sealed Bid for Public Safety Training Facility, DPW Project No. 24-26

Following the closure of the bid submittal period, bids will be publicly opened and read for performing work as follows: Furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, and performing all work necessary and incidental to the construction of the project known as Public Safety Training Facility, DPW Project No. 24-26, according to drawings and specifications prepared by the City of El Paso de Robles and according to the Contract Documents. The work shall include, but is not limited to, grading and installation of concrete slab for a future training tower building. Includes site utilities and minor drainage facilities. Contractor to provide all necessary work plans, permits and inspections necessary, all as shown on the plans and/or as specified herein.

Project is to be completed within Sixty (60) WORKING days from the date specified in the Notice to Proceed. The Contractor shall pay to the City of El Paso de Robles the sum of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00), for each and every calendar day’s delay in finishing the work in excess of the calendar day completion time.

The California Air Resources Board (“CARB”) implemented amendments to the In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulations (“Regulation”) which went into effect on January 1, 2024 and apply broadly to all self-propelled off road diesel vehicles 25 horsepower or greater and other forms of equipment used in California. A copy of the Regulation is available at https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/barcu/regact/2022/offroaddiesel/appa-1.pdf. Bidders are required to comply with all CARB and Regulation requirements, including, without limitation, all applicable sections of the Regulation, as codified in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations section 2449 et seq. throughout the duration of the Project. Bidders must provide, with their Bid, copies of Bidder’s and all listed subcontractors’ most recent, valid Certificate of Reported Compliance (“CRC”) issued by CARB. Failure to provide valid CRCs as required herein may render the Bid non-responsive.

Copies of the Bid Documents are now on file and available for public inspection at Public Works Department at 1000 Spring Street, El Paso de Robles, California. Interested bidders must obtain copies of the documents electronically.

The Contract Documents will be available electronically, at no cost, at Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA or navigate at www.prcity.com. Use the link Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA to navigate to the City’s website for out to bid projects. To download the Bid Documents, the user must register as a user on the site. It is the responsibility of each prospective bidder to download and print all Bid Documents for review and to verify the completeness of Bid Documents before submitting a bid. Any Addenda will be posted at Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA.

It is the responsibility of each prospective bidder to check Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA on a daily basis through the close of bids for any applicable addenda or updates. Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA sends email notifications to ONLY those registered on the City’s website. The City does not assume any liability or responsibility based on any defective or incomplete copying, excerpting, scanning, faxing, downloading or printing of the Bid Documents. Information on Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA may change without notice to prospective bidders. The Contract Documents shall supersede any information posted or transmitted by any other vendor besides the City.

Bidding procedures are prescribed in the Contract Documents. Each bidder must submit bid security in one of the following forms: cash, cashier’s check payable to City, a certified check payable to City, or a bid bond in the form included with the bid documents, executed by an admitted surety insurer, made payable to City in an amount equal to at least 10% of the total amount of the bid or proposal.

Pursuant to Section 1770, et seq. of the California Labor Code, the successful bidder and all subcontractors shall pay not less than the prevailing rate of per diem wages as determined by the Director of the California Department of Industrial Relations.

Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5, for bids due on or after March 1, 2015, all contractors and subcontractors that wish to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal for, or enter into a contract to perform work on the Project must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code sections 1725.5 and 1771.1. No bid will be accepted, nor any contract entered into if the bidder is not registered as required by law.

Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 22300, for monies earned by the Contractor and withheld by City of El Paso de Robles to ensure the performance of the Contract, the Contractor may, at its option, choose to substitute securities meeting the requirements of Public Contract Code Section 22300.

All bidders shall be licensed under the provisions of the Business and Professions Code to do the type of work contemplated in the project. In accordance with provisions of California Public Contract Code Section 3300, City has determined that the Contractor shall possess a valid Class A (General Engineering) License at the time that the bid is submitted. Failure to possess the specified license shall render the bid non-responsive.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish a payment bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, as well as a faithful performance bond, in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price. The bonds shall be on the forms included in the Contract Documents.

City reserves the right to reject any or all bids; to make any awards or any rejections in what it alone considers to be in the best interest of City and waive any informalities or irregularities in the bids. The contract will be awarded, if at all, to the responsible bidder that submits the lowest responsive bid. City will determine the low bid.

Date: November 21, 2024 By: Ditas Esperanza P.E. Capital Projects Engineer

Publication Dates:

PUBLISHED NOTICE INVITING BIDS

MERRY HILL / 15TH STREET / TERRACE HILL ROAD REPAIRS

PROJECT NO. 23-40

SEALED BIDS will be received by the City Clerk, or designee, of the City of El Paso de Robles until January 30, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. for the Merry Hill / 15th Street / Terrace Hill Road Repairs, DPW Project No. 23-40. Please be certain that any bid submitted is sealed and addressed and noted as follows:

City Clerk City of El Paso de Robles 1000 Spring Street Paso Robles, CA 93446 Sealed Bid for Merry Hill / 15th Street / Terrace Hill Road Repairs, DPW Project No. 23-40

Following the closure of the bid submittal period, bids will be publicly opened and read for performing work as follows: Furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, and performing all work necessary and incidental to the construction of the project known as Merry Hill / 15th Street / Terrace Hill Road Repairs, DPW Project No. 23-40, according to drawings and specifications prepared by the City of El Paso de Robles and according to the Contract Documents. The work shall include, but is not limited to, dig-out repairs, placing 1-inch HMA leveling course and 2-inch HMA surface course. Contractor to provide all necessary work plans, permits, and inspections necessary, all as shown on the plans and/ or as specified herein.

Project is to be completed within Thirty (30) WORKING days from the date specified in the Notice to Proceed. The Contractor shall pay to the City of El Paso de Robles the sum of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for each and every calendar day’s delay in finishing the work in excess of the calendar day completion time.

The California Air Resources Board (“CARB”) implemented amendments to the In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulations (“Regulation”) which went into effect on January 1, 2024 and apply broadly to all self-propelled off road diesel vehicles 25 horsepower or greater and other forms of equipment used in California. A copy of the Regulation is available at https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/barcu/regact/2022/offroaddiesel/appa-1.pdf. Bidders are required to comply with all CARB and Regulation requirements, including, without limitation, all applicable sections of the Regulation, as codified in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations section 2449 et seq. throughout the duration of the Project. Bidders must provide, with their Bid, copies of Bidder’s and all listed subcontractors’ most recent, valid Certificate of Reported Compliance (“CRC”) issued by CARB. Failure to provide valid CRCs as required herein may render the Bid non-responsive.

Copies of the Bid Documents are now on file and available for public inspection at Public Works Department at 1000 Spring Street, El Paso de Robles, California. Interested bidders must obtain copies of the documents electronically.

The Contract Documents will be available electronically, at no cost, at Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA. Use the link Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA to navigate to the City’s website for out to bid projects. To download the Bid Documents, the user must register as a user on the site. It is the responsibility of each prospective bidder to download and print all Bid Documents for review and to verify the completeness of Bid Documents before submitting a bid. Any Addenda will be posted at Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA.

It is the responsibility of each prospective bidder to check Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA on a daily basis through the close of bids for any applicable addenda or updates. Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA sends email notifications to ONLY those registered on the City’s website. The City does not assume any liability or responsibility based on any defective or incomplete copying, excerpting, scanning, faxing, downloading or printing of the Bid Documents. Information on Out to Bid | Paso Robles, CA may change without notice to prospective bidders. The Contract Documents shall supersede any information posted or transmitted by any other vendor besides the City.

Bidding procedures are prescribed in the Contract Documents.

Each bidder must submit bid security in one of the following forms: cash, cashier’s check payable to City, a certified check payable to City, or a bid bond in the form included with the bid documents, executed by an admitted surety insurer, made payable to City in an amount equal to at least 10% of the total amount of the bid or proposal.

Pursuant to Section 1770, et seq. of the California Labor Code, the successful bidder and all subcontractors shall pay not less than the prevailing rate of per diem wages as determined by the Director of the California Department of Industrial Relations.

Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5, for bids due on or after March 1, 2015, all contractors and subcontractors that wish to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal for, or enter into a contract to perform work on the Project must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code sections 1725.5 and 1771.1. No bid will be accepted, nor any contract entered into if the bidder is not registered as required by law.

Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 22300, for monies earned by the Contractor and withheld by City of El Paso de Robles to ensure the performance of the Contract, the Contractor may, at its option, choose to substitute securities meeting the requirements of Public Contract Code Section 22300.

All bidders shall be licensed under the provisions of the Business and Professions Code to do the type of work contemplated in the project. In accordance with provisions of California Public Contract Code Section 3300, City has determined that the Contractor shall possess a valid Class A (General Engineering) License at the time that the bid is submitted. Failure to possess the specified license shall render the bid non-responsive.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish a payment bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, as well as a faithful performance bond, in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price. The bonds shall be on the forms included in the Contract Documents.

City reserves the right to reject any or all bids; to make any awards or any rejections in what it alone considers to be in the best interest of City and waive any informalities or irregularities in the bids. The contract will be awarded, if at all, to the responsible bidder that submits the lowest responsive bid. City will determine the low bid. Date: December 19, 2024 By: Ditas Esperanza P.E. Capital Projects Engineer

Publication Dates: - December 19, 2024 - January 9, 2025

NOTICE: SEIZURE OF PROPERTY AND INITIATION OF NONJUDICIAL FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS PER HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 11488.4(j)

TO: ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

$2,331.00 IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY

Notice is hereby given that on December 20, 2024, the above-described property was seized at or near the intersection of Prado Street and S. Higuera Street in San Luis Obispo 93401, by the San Luis Obispo Police Department, in connection with violations of section 11378 of the California Health and Safety Code. The estimated/ appraised value of the property is $2,331.00

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 is entitled to legal representation at a hearing, although not one appointed at public expense, and has the right to present evidence and witnesses, and to cross-examine plaintiff’s witnesses, but there is no right to avoid testifying at a civil hearing.

The failure to timely file and secure a verified claim stating an interest in the property in the Superior Court will result in the property being declared or ordered forfeited to the State of California and distributed pursuant to the provisions of Health and Safety Code section 11489 without further notice or hearing.

DATED: January 6, 2025

DAN DOW

District Attorney

Kenneth Jorgensen

Deputy District Attorney January 9, 16, & 23, 2025

NOTICE: SEIZURE OF PROPERTY AND INITIATION OF NONJUDICIAL FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS PER HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 11488.4(J) TO: ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

$3,163.00 IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY

Notice is hereby given that on September 17, 2024, the above-described property was seized at or near 128 Casa Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405, by the San Luis Obispo Police Department, in connection with violations, to wit, section(s) 11351 & 11352(a) of the California Health and Safety Code. The estimated/appraised value of the property is $3,163.00.

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: December 27, 2024

DAN DOW District Attorney

Kenneth Jorgensen Deputy District Attorney

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 680

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Atascadero City Council has adopted Ordinance No. 680. The primary provisions of the Ordinance are as follows:

This Ordinance adopts a Development Agreement between Scott Newton and the City of Atascadero and amends Title 9 of the Atascadero Municipal Code to establish Development Agreement Overlay Zone DA1, amend the official Zoning Map to Establish DA1 on the subject property, and certify the proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration prepared for 11450 Viejo Camino and 11505 El Camino Real. The Ordinance was passed and adopted by the City Council on December 10, 2024, by the following roll call vote:

AYES: Council Members Dariz, Funk, Newsom, Bourbeau and Mayor Moreno.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: None

A complete copy of the Ordinance is on file in the City Clerk’s Office, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, California

DATED: January 3, 2025

S/ Alyssa Slater, Deputy City Clerk

PUBLISH: January 9, 2025

January 2, 9, & 16, 2025

The San Luis Obispo Planning Commission will hold a Regular Meeting on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. Meetings may be viewed 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 advisorybodies@slocity.org.

PUBLIC HEARING ITEM:

• Review of the Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Pilot Program, in partnership with CAPSLO, that will provide individuals experiencing homelessness a safe place to temporarily park a vehicle overnight to facilitate the transition to permanent housing. CAPSLO is requesting to provide program participants up to 12 overnight (7pm-7am) parking spaces at six locations, one of which is outside of City limits. Overnight safe parking sites will rotate on a monthly basis. Project Addresses: 1545 Calle Joaquin, 25 Prado Road, 680 Industrial Way, 2075 Johnson Ave., & 317 Foothill Blvd.; Case #: DIR-0612-2024 (1545 Calle Joaquin), DIR-0639-2024 (2075 Johnson Ave), DIR-06402024 (25 Prado Rd), DIR-0641-2024 (317 Foothill Blvd), & DIR-0642-2024 (680 Industrial Way); Zones: CT, PF, R-2, & R-1; CAPSLO, applicant.

Contact Information: Daisy Wiberg – (805) 781-7025 –dwiberg@slocity.org

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

Report(s) are typically available six days in advance of the meeting and can be viewed on the City’s website, under the Public Meeting Agendas web page: https://www.slocity.org/ government/mayor-and-city-council/agendas-and-minutes Please call The Community Development Department at (805) 781-7170 for more information, or to request an agenda report. The Planning Commission meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and live streaming on the City’s YouTube channel www.youtube.com/CityofSanLuisObispo. January 9, 2025

Free Will Astrology by Rob Brezsny

Legal Notice with New Times–

Homework: Whether or not you believe in reincarnation, imagine that you lived another life. Where was it? Who were you? Newsletter.freewillastrology.com

ARIES

(March 21-April 19): Aries poet Charles Baudelaire said that if you want to fully activate your personal genius, you will reclaim and restore the intelligence you had as a child. You will empower it anew with all the capacities you have developed as an adult. I believe this is sensational advice for you in 2025. In my understanding of the astrological omens, you will have an extraordinary potential to use your mature faculties to beautifully express the wise innocence and lucid perceptions you were blessed with when you were young.

TAURUS

(April 20-May 20): In many Asian myths, birds and snakes are depicted as adversaries. Their conflict symbolizes humanity’s problems in coordinating the concerns of earth and heaven. Desire may be at odds with morality. Unconscious motivations can be opposed to good intentions. Pride, self-interest, and ambition might seem incompatible with spiritual aspirations, high-minded ideals, and the quest to transcend suffering. But here’s the good news for you, Taurus: In 2025, I suspect that birds and snakes will cooperate rather harmoniously. You and they will have stirring, provocative adventures together.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): Using a fork to eat food was slow to gain acceptance in the Western world. Upper-class Europeans began to make it a habit in the 11th century, but most common folk regarded it as a pretentious irrelevancy for hundreds of years. Grabbing grub with the fingers was perfectly acceptable. I suspect this scenario might serve as an apt metaphor for you in 2025. You are primed to be an early adapter who launches trends. You will be the first to try novel approaches and experiment with variations in how things have always been done. Enjoy your special capacity, Gemini. Be bold in generating innovations.

CANCER

(June 21-July 22): Psychologist Abraham Maslow defined “peak experiences” as “rare, exciting, oceanic, deeply moving, exhilarating, elevating experiences that generate an advanced form of perceiving reality, and are even mystic and magical in their effect upon the experimenter.” The moment of falling in love is one example. Another may happen when a creative artist makes an inspiring breakthrough in their work. These transcendent interludes may also come from dreamwork, exciting teachings, walks in nature, and responsible drug use. (Read more here: tinyurl.com/peakinterludes) I bring these ideas to your attention, Cancerian, because I believe the months ahead will be prime time for you to cultivate and attract peak experiences.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22): According to my analysis of the astrological omens, your life in 2025 will be pretty free of grueling karmic necessity. You will be granted exemptions from cosmic compulsion. You won’t be stymied by the oppressive inertia of the past. To state this happy turn of events more positively, you will have clearance to move and groove with daring expansiveness. Obligations and duties won’t disappear, but they’re more likely to be interesting than boring and arduous. Special dispensations and kind favors will flow more abundantly than they have in a long time.

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): One of my most enjoyable goals in life has been to expunge my “isms.” I’m pleased that I have made dramatic progress in liquidating much of the perverse cultural conditioning that imprinted me as I was growing up. I’ve largely liberated myself from racism, sexism, classism, ableism, heteronormativity, looksism, and even egotism. How are you doing with that stuff, Virgo? The coming months will be a favorable time to work on this honorable task. What habits of mind and feeling have you absorbed from the world that are not in sync with your highest ideals?

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Here’s one of my predictions for you in 2025, Libra: You will reach the outer limits of your domain and then push on to explore beyond those limits. Here’s another prediction: You will realize with a pleasant shock that some old expectations about your destiny are too small, and soon you will be expanding those expectations. Can you handle one further mind-opening, soul-stretching prophecy? You will demolish at least one mental block, break at least one taboo, and dismantle an old wall that has interfered with your ability to give and receive love.

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): If you’re not married and would like to be, 2025 might be your best chance in years to find wedded bliss. If an existing intimate bond is less than optimal, the coming months will bring inspiration and breakthroughs to improve it. Let’s think even bigger and stronger, Scorpio, and speculate that you could be on the verge of all kinds of enhanced synergetic connections. I bet business and artistic partnerships will thrive if you decide you want them to. Links to valuable resources will be extra available if you work to refine your skills at collaboration and togetherness.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I wonder how you will feel about the fact that I’m declaring 2025 to be the Year of the Muses for you Sagittarians. Will you be happy that I expect you to be flooded with provocative clues from inspiring influences? Or will you regard the influx of teachings and revelations as chaotic, confusing or inconvenient? In the hope you adopt my view, I urge you to expand your understanding of the nature of muses. They may be intriguing people and might also take the form of voices in your head, ancestral mentors, beloved animals, famous creators, or spirit guides.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Astrologers in ancient China had the appalling view that more than two-thirds of all omens are negative, threatening, or scary. I haven’t seen formal research into the biases of modern Western stargazers, but my anecdotal evidence suggests they tend to be equally pessimistic. I regard this as an unjustified travesty. My studies have shown that there is no such thing as an inherently ominous astrological configuration. All portents are revelations about how to successfully wrangle with our problems, perpetrate liberation, ameliorate suffering, find redemption, and perform ingenious tweaks that liberate us from our mind-forged manacles. They always have the potential to help us discover the deeper meanings beneath our experiences. Everything I just said is essential for you to keep in mind during 2025.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Over the years, a few people who don’t know me well have accused me of “thinking too much” or “overthinking.” They are wrong. While I aspire to always be open to constructive criticism, I am sure that I don’t think too much. Not all my thoughts are magnificent, original, and high-quality, of course; some are generated by fear and habit. However, I meticulously monitor the flow of all my thoughts and am skilled at knowing which ones I should question or not take seriously. The popular adage, “Don’t believe everything you think” is one of my axioms. In 2025, I invite you Aquarians to adopt my approach. Go right ahead and think as much as you want, even as you heighten your awareness of which of your thoughts are excellent and which are not.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20): I’m pleased, bordering on gleeful, that your homecoming is well underway. All the signs suggest that as 2025 unfolds, you will ripen the processes of deepening your roots and building a stronger foundation. As a result, I expect and predict that your levels of domestic bliss will reach unprecedented heights. You may even create a deeply fulfilled sense of loving yourself exactly as you are and feeling like you truly belong to the world you are surrounded by. Dear Pisces, I dare you to cultivate more peace of mind than you have ever managed to arouse. I double-dare you to update traditions whose emotional potency has waned. ∆

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