School is about to be back in session for the 2024-25 school year, which means summer is almost over—sad. But it also means a new school year for all of those students, new learning, new friends, new experiences—rad! For this year’s annual Education Today issue, Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor speaks with school districts that are asking voters to approve millions of dollars in bond measures in November to update old classrooms and aging buildings and build a new high school [6]. Plus, Staff Writer Libbey Hanson from the Sun’s sister paper, New Times, writes about a teen wellness program that aims to improve student mental health in San Luis Obispo and northern Santa Barbara counties [7]. This week, you can also read about a Buellton cannabis processing facility that just received the go-ahead [4]; a gym in Arroyo Grande hosting an artisan market to raise funds for a Los Alamos dog rescue [20]; and a new lounge in Solvang [24]
Camillia Lanham
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• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) announced that he recently secured several top water infrastructure priorities for California through the unanimous U.S. Senate passage of the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024, according to an Aug. 2 statement from Padilla’s office. The legislation includes provisions Padilla fought for to address the Tijuana River transboundary sewage crisis, to invest in salmon recovery and habitat restoration around the Sacramento River Basin, and to provide the Army Corps of Engineers with enhanced drought and flood control authorities. The Senate and House of Representatives have each passed their respective versions of the Water Resources Development Act, which will now be conferenced to produce final legislation. “California communities are bearing the brunt of climate catastrophes, from toxic sewage jeopardizing public health, to the plummeting Chinook salmon populations threatening fishery livelihoods, to devastating atmospheric river storms coming on the heels of extreme drought,” Padilla said in the statement. “The provisions I secured in this bill will bolster California’s water infrastructure resilience in the face of increasingly extreme weather. I look forward to working with my House and Senate colleagues to make sure these critical California priorities become law.”
• Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Clean California initiative celebrated three years of service in statewide beautification and cleanup projects, according to a July 30 statement from Newsom’s office. “For decades, trash piled up on California’s highways and in our communities without a concerted, comprehensive effort to clean it up,” Newsom said in a statement. “Three years ago, Clean California became our answer. Countless neighborhoods in every corner of our state are cleaner and healthier thanks to Clean California.” Launched in July 2021, the $1.2 billion initiative has hauled away more than 2.6 million cubic yards of litter—enough to cover nine lanes of Interstate 5 with an inch of trash from San Diego to the Canadian border—hosted more than 500 free dump days in communities across the state, enlisted nearly 60,000 community cleanup volunteers, created more than 18,000 jobs, and collected more than 12,000 mattresses and 50,000 tires. So far, 94 of 312 projects have been completed, and another 171 are expected to be finished in the next 12 months, according to the governor’s office.
• U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-California) recently visited Mexico where she joined discussions with several of her Senate colleagues on the root causes of migration, the impact of U.S.-supported economic development programs in the region, the U.S.’s trade relationship with Mexico, joint security initiatives in action, and how the country can build its existing relationship with Mexico, according to a July 24 statement from Butler’s office. Mexico is a key U.S. partner in addressing irregular migration and tackling security concerns including human and drug trafficking. As the largest goods trading partner with the U.S., Mexico also plays a vital role in the U.S. economy. Throughout the trip, the delegation met with a wide variety of public officials in order to better understand the factors at play in stemming migration flows across the Western Hemisphere and supporting our mutual economic prosperity. “I was glad to have joined a bipartisan, bicameral delegation to Mexico deepening the relationship with our biggest trading partners and celebrating President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum,” Butler said in the statement. “Our conversations reinforced the partnership between our nations as both countries work to ensure the human rights and prosperity of our peoples. This timely visit underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of migration, border security, and economic development opportunities.” m
County Planning Commission approves Buellton cannabis cultivation project
While cannabis odor has concerned John Parke in the past when it comes to project proposals, the Santa Barbara County 3rd District Planning Commissioner voted alongside his colleagues to approve a cannabis processing project near Buellton and deny an appeal from neighbors during the July 31 Planning Commission hearing.
“We have several experienced commissioners who have learned to probe these projects. We did that as well as we could, and we have found nothing that should tell us that this appeal should be approved,” Parke said during the meeting.
Sierra Botanicals LLC—an existing operator in the county that received its land use permit to cultivate cannabis on 2.3 acres in 2019— requested to use its 3,149-square-foot barn to process cannabis on-site, with about 60 percent of it coming from other operators, according to the county staff report. Processing will consist of cutting, drying, curing, storing, and packaging products with up to 10 permanent employees added to help with operations. Sierra Botanicals will use carbon scrubbers, the best available technology, to help with odor abatement.
“Sierra Botanicals has been an annual license holder in Santa Barbara for more than three years, and even when there’s been challenges with the regulators, Sierra Botanicals has consistently made the choice to work with the regulators and adjust to their feedback to be a partner with the county in the cannabis industry,” said Kapono Curry, founder of Bay Kinetic consulting who represented Sierra Botanicals.
Edward Seaman and Patricia Paulsen filed an appeal to a Sierra Botanicals LLC project that requested a land use permit to allow cannabis processing on its site with an existing, permitted operation. Seaman, the Restoration Oaks Ranch general manager, told the Sun that he filed his appeal because of odor concerns and the size of the cannabis “footprint” in the area as more cannabis projects come down the pipeline near his property.
Restoration Oaks Ranch provides farmstays, blueberry harvests, and agroecology education events throughout the year, according to Restoration Oaks’ website.
“We have children on our U-pick farm every day. Sierra Botanicals’ operations already smell, and we already get their odor,” Seaman said. “That
does affect me, my livelihood, and our community.
… If you have the smell of the drug industry wafting over, then you’ve completely changed the experience, and that’s going to hurt us.”
He added that “the reminder of the drug industry” wafting over the farm will impact families trying to connect with their children in an outdoor environment.
“If your family is trying to keep you away from drugs, going to a place that’s supposed to be outdoor, pure, safe, fun enjoyment and having the drug industry encroaching on that environment is bad,” Seaman said. “It’s bad for society, and it doesn’t belong here.”
However, Parke and other commissioners agreed that Seaman’s arguments were beyond the scope of the project because cannabis operations are legal in California, and odor concerns were controlled to the best possible extent within the land use permit.
“The Planning Commission isn’t the place to talk about the advisability of using a product that’s legally allowed to be produced in Santa Barbara County,” Parke said. “If you’re vegan and you don’t like cows being eaten or turned into shoe leather, that doesn’t mean it’s relevant for the Planning Commission to consider when we look at the zoning on a cattle ranch.”
Parke added that the land use permit doesn’t require an odor abatement plan for ag II land and is not authorized to add a neighborhood compatibility standard for approval.
Moving forward, Seaman said he will have his eyes on TAT Ventures LLC, another cannabis project near his property. Commissioner Parke requested the commission delay its discussion of TAT Ventures’ project for further analysis on odor, among other concerns. TAT Ventures LLC will need a conditional use permit and odor abatement plan in place for approval.
“I’m going to appeal this every step of the way. The 28th, they’ll make a decision,” he said. “My argument is: It’s not compatible with us.”
—Taylor O’Connor
original school and they need to be replaced with new modernized buildings so the students have the opportunity to be in classrooms up to code,” Donner told the Sun The College School District serves about 196 students and oversees two Santa Ynez Valley elementary schools and one charter school. The College Elementary School site serves transitional kindergartners, kindergarteners, charter school students, and preschoolers, and Santa Ynez Elementary School site serves first through eighth graders, Donner said. Students then feed into Santa Ynez Valley Union High School alongside other elementary school districts in the valley. In order to make needed upgrades to older facilities, renovate and add air conditioning to its multipurpose room; provide faculty and staff with their own restrooms; become ADA compliant; and remove hazardous materials like lead piping and asbestos, the College School District is asking voters to approve Measure L, an $18 million school bond during the November 2024 general election, she said. The 30-year bond would be $19 per $100,000 of assessed home value, and the district needs a 55 percent approval rate or higher.
“It’s the lowest amount we could ask for, and we hope it will be more favorable to the community based on the economy and circumstances we are facing,” Donner said. “As we know, things cost a lot, and it will probably get us a start. We’ll probably need more later on, but at least we are aware of the community needs and we feel it’s more favorable than asking for a larger amount.”
The Santa Ynez Valley school district is one of four North County districts going before voters this November with bond measures on the ballot, with three of the four districts looking to allocate funds solely to upgrade old facilities. The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District is looking to build a new comprehensive high school. College School District voters haven’t approved a new bond measure since 2004 with Measure Z, a 25-year, $9.7 million general obligation bond that helped modernize the Santa Ynez elementary campus and provided the charter school with new and modernized facilities, she said. Residents will continue paying off the bond for the next decade.
“The College campus was never touched. We did what we could do, but it’s time for us to be able to complete our projects. Since then, it’s been 20 years, the portables have reached their age limits,” Donner said.
Prior to Measure L, three previous College School District bonds failed by 2 percent, with the most recent on the ballot in 2022 asking for $23 million—the highest the district could ask for, she said.
“This time around we went for a lower amount that would be favorable to the community and it would help us get some projects started,” she said. “We felt if we went during a presidential election—we have about 4,500 voters—we’re hoping we’ll have more voters come out and support.”
Santa Ynez
Valley’s College School District
adds $18 million bond measure to November ballot
Several College School District portable classrooms are World War II surplus Army barracks that were brought onto campus decades ago, Superintendent Marlene Donner said.
“Our old Army barrack buildings were brought to the site and put together as the
College School District board President Peter Wright said that the board approved the bond with a 5-0 vote, and it was a decision they took very seriously. He added that the school district will be working on engaging and educating voters on the bond measure and the issue, and the community will be involved in the bond’s oversight if approved.
“We just knew it was dire; we really don’t have a choice,” he said. “We are going to be working so hard because we just can’t lose.” m
—Taylor O’Connor
ODOR ISSUES: Despite the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission denying his appeal of Sierra Botanicals LLC processing project, Restoration Oaks Ranch General Manager Edward Seaman plans to keep following cannabis projects near his property regarding odor concerns, with another cannabis project going before the commission on Aug. 28. Restoration Oaks’ U-pick blueberry farm is pictured in this 2014 file photo.
Joseph Nunez, M.D.
David Ikola, M.D. Shane Rostermundt, D.O.
Michele Kielty, D.O.
EDUCATION TODAY
Bond, school bond
School districts countywide are asking voters to approve funds for campus upgrades, new schools and classrooms
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
Santa Maria-Bonita
In the 2023-24 school year, Santa MariaBonita School District had more than 17,000 students enrolled in its 17 elementary schools, four junior high schools, and one combined elementary and junior high.
By 2029-30, the district expects more than 18,000 enrolled students, not accounting for students who might come from housing projects currently in the city of Santa Maria’s development pipeline, Deputy Superintendent for Business Services Matt Beecher told the Sun
In order to address its growing student population and update older school facilities, Santa Maria-Bonita’s school board voted to add Measure K to the November ballot—a $77 million, 30-year bond measure that would fund site upgrades.
“In some of our campuses, there’s broad differences [in] services available for students on one campus versus the other. Our hope is we can address those disparities so we can provide an inclusive learning environment regardless of where they live in the city,” Beecher said.
If approved, funding would help the schools meet health and safety codes; provide proper access for students with disabilities; remove asbestos and lead piping; repair leaking roofs, deteriorated gas lines, HVAC, ventilation, and electrical systems across sites; construct new classrooms and facilities in order to accommodate student enrollment; replace aging portable classrooms; and improve campus security, according to school district staff.
District voters passed Measure T in 2014, a $45 million bond that funded Bill Libbon Elementary’s construction and congestion and safety projects on multiple campuses, Beecher said.
“I think we expected Libbon to cost $31 million to build. By the time we had it designed, built, and equipped, we were north of $45 million, between $41 and $45 million,” he said. “That just had to do with the cost of building a school in California.”
Residents will pay for Measure T until August 2044, Beecher said.
Measure K would cost less than $30 per $100,000 of assessed value of a resident’s home based on the Santa Barbara County Assessor’s Office rate.
“We would hope, as we found in Measure T, to find continued support and participation across our community to make our schools excellent and to provide the best education to our students so they can reach their maximum potential,” Beecher said.
Lompoc Unified
Lompoc residents haven’t approved a school bond measure since Measure N in 2002 for $38 million
Most of Lompoc Unified’s 16 school sites were built 60 years ago and received upgrades 20 years ago, according to the school district’s website. The district would need additional funds if it wanted to make “basic upgrades” for student health and safety.
“For example, thousands of students attend class in 136 portable classrooms that are decades old, falling apart, and most have structural damage or water leaks,” according to Lompoc Unified. “Older schools have hazardous materials like asbestos and lead that need to be removed for student health and safety.”
In order to make needed improvements, the district is putting a $160 million bond on the ballot, known as Measure M. The bond would levy 5 cents per $100 (or $50 per $100,000) of assessed home value for 40 years.
“I think the biggest thing is helping people to understand that it’s all connected to where we live, how we live. It all matters,” Lompoc Unified School District Director of Communications and Engagement Sally Kingston said. “I see the need; I’ve been in the schools. If there was a different way to do it, I think we’d be trying to figure that out too, but we really need that support of the community.”
In 2022, Lompoc Unified asked voters to approve a $125 million bond with a similar proposal (known as Measure A) but it failed with a 54.46 percent approval rate—a couple of hundred votes shy of the required 55 percent approval minimum, Kingston said.
“I don’t know what’s more important than the kids and the community, but I’m coming to you as an educator for 36 years focusing on issues of inequity and finding ways to make these kids be successful,” Kingston said. “It’s an investment in not just the kids but the community because the kids are the community.”
Santa Maria Joint Union
With 9,000 students enrolled in the district, Santa Maria Joint Union High School District sites are seeing between 2,300 and more than 3,000 students per school across its four campuses, which were originally built for 2,000.
“Right now, we bus students from Guadalupe to [Ernest] Righetti High School and [students from] the northwest part of town to Pioneer Valley and Santa Maria,” former board member Diana Perez told the Sun. “The biggest challenge is the number of students per classroom. When you have over 30 students, it’s very difficult for teachers to teach that many students.”
As a result, the district is adding a $194 million bond to the November ballot to fund building a new comprehensive high school and make some improvements at current sites, she said. Known as Measure J, it would cost residents $24 per $100,000 of assessed value at the time residents purchased their home, and it would take 30 years to pay off.
“It’s the best investment they can make in any city,” Perez said. “I hope they support it. It’s a great gift to any community.”
Voters approved Measure C in 2004, a $79 million bond that updated Santa Maria High School’s football field, built a swimming pool on campus, and added 14 classrooms. The district replaced portable classrooms at Delta High School, built a 38-classroom building at Righetti, and a performing arts center at Pioneer Valley High School.
In 2016, voters passed a $114 million bond (known as Measure H) to help rebuild Santa Maria High’s 80-year-old campus; modernize and upgrade Righetti’s classrooms, science labs, and support facilities; and to build the career technical education center, Perez said.
Many residents thought that Measure H funds were also supposed to invest in building a new school site at the district, Perez said, but there were many challenges that set that goal back.
“The No. 1 is locating 45 to 60 acres to build a comprehensive high school was difficult. We looked at various land locations, it was not easy to find, and at the time the community wanted to bring back the trade schools, and we did that with the CTE center,” Perez said. “The other reason is that the city is responsible for collaborating with the school district to earmark land for future growth, and they have not done that.”
While there are no plans for where the school could be located yet, Perez said that she anticipates it’ll be built on the northwest side of town to accommodate the students who are being bused in from Guadalupe or across town.
“We need it today; the best thing [the school district] can do is immediately start the planning, working with the city leaders to find the best location for the high school,” Perez said. “I’m positive it will start immediately.” m
Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@santamariasun.com.
MEASURE K: The Santa Maria-Bonita School District will present a $77 million school bond to voters that if approved would help improve older school sites, like removing weeds growing from the roof at Robert Bruce Elementary School.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MAGGIE WHITE
EDUCATION TODAY
Combating stigma
CAPSLO’s Teen Wellness Program is increasing efforts in high schools to address student mental health
BY LIBBEY HANSON
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, student anxiety, depression, and substance abuse levels have grown increasingly more prevalent and severe, according to Emma Fay, program coordinator for Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo’s (CAPSLO) Teen Wellness Program.
“We’re kind of in this crisis and critical moment where we need to recognize that your mental health matters, that the conditions are common and they’re treatable,” she said. “But they’re only treatable if people are talking about it.”
That’s where a $966,395 grant from the California Community Schools Partnership Program will come into play. The funding will be used to fill gaps in mental health awareness within San Luis Obispo and northern Santa Barbara counties’ high schools. Efforts will include hiring student ambassadors and community educators through funding that will be dispersed over a 27-month period that started in July.
For more than 25 years, the Teen Wellness Program has provided students with sex education and mobile reproductive health clinics. The program has evolved over that quarter of a century as well. It’s now more youth-led and studentfocused with additional resources for mindfulness, mental health, and healthy relationships, Fay said.
The members of the Teen Wellness Program know there’s a mental health crisis among students, but they also know there’s an underlying stigma around finding and asking for help. If the program can start supporting students from an earlier age and educate them about mental health and wellness, future generations will be more comfortable speaking about mental health and asking for help.
Currently, nearly every high school within SLO and northern Santa Barbara counties has a wellness center run by school staff that is supported by the Teen Wellness Program. While these have proven to be successful resources for students, the program intends to make the centers better with more partnerships throughout the community.
“Mental health is such a big and complex issue. It’s going to take partnership; I don’t think schools can do it on their own. I don’t think a communitybased organization can do it on their own,” she said. “Everyone has a responsibility to play. We all collectively have to come together.”
With the new funding, the Teen Wellness Center is
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recruiting a team of student ambassadors ranging in ages from 13 to 18. The students will be paid to dedicate three hours a week to the program and report prominent issues they see among their peers.
Fay said the ambassadors don’t need to have leadership experience, per se, but they do need to have an eagerness to contribute.
“Someone who’s kind of empathetic, compassionate, and wants to bring their ideas to the space,” she said.
The upcoming group of ambassadors will be the organization’s largest yet, as previous years had only one ambassador, Jessica Navarette of northern Santa Barbara County.
“I wanted to be an ambassador because I saw how badly mental health was neglected in the Lompoc area and the Santa Maria area because I went to school in all of those places,” she said.
Navarette said she struggles with mental health as well and noticed her own declining alongside her peers’.
“I noticed how bad [my mental health was] being neglected, and I noticed that the youth get really misunderstood and ignored most times,” she said. “And a lot of communal therapists and mental health services that are out there in the community are really understaffed.”
The Teen Wellness Program resonated with Navarette because the mental health services it provides are easily accessible, where students are every day.
After graduating high school last year, Navarette was promoted to lead ambassador and will work with the incoming ambassadors.
“I hope [the program] keeps going strong, and I hope it can lead to every school having it, because a lot of kids are struggling these days. It deserves attention,” she said.
Funding will also provide new community educators for parents and community members so students can get help outside of school as well.
According to Navarette, many parents don’t see therapy as an option for mental health.
“They hear the word ‘therapy,’ and they associate it with being extremely mentally ill,” she said.
These educators will hold workshops for English- and Spanish-speaking parents to help provide accurate information, guide conversation, and remove the stigma surrounding mental health.
CAPSLO is hiring 50 student ambassadors for both SLO and Santa Barbara counties for its Teen Wellness Program. Applicants must be 13 to 18 years old and have an eagerness to address the mental health crisis. Ambassadors will dedicate three hours per week to the program. To apply, visit forms.gle/rjs2Y63dqechTNC29. Are Fleas Biting your Furbaby? 3564 Skyway Dr., S.M. (805) 361-0802
Program Coordinator Fay said they do not view these parents as unsupportive of their children, however.
“I think there’s just a disconnect between parents caring deeply about their own people, but they may have grown up with messages around ‘we just don’t talk about mental health,’ or ‘only people who are crazy get mental health services.’ These are lingering pieces of stigma that now impact their ability to parent and their ability to support their young person,” Fay said.
Teen Wellness Program Manager Jenna Lawrence said these sensitive topics of conversation are not new to the program. In the past, they have provided workshops for parents to ask questions about their children questioning their identity or sexuality.
The program hopes parents will approach mental health with the same curiosity.
“We can imagine maybe something similar going on with mental health and learning, parents requesting how they help their child with stress or anxiety or what those things are,” Lawrence said.
In addition to in-person workshops, the program will also provide methods of digital
storytelling for teachers to use in the classroom, providing guided conversations around mental health that can be used for years to come. They also hope to incorporate theater, art, photography, and dance as ways of processing anxiety, depression, and other mental hardships.
Although they are addressing a crisis, Program Coordinator Fay said that is not the only thing the program wants to focus on.
“It’s so easy to get caught in a crisis, but I think we also have to create an equal amount of space for the vision of, well, what does it look like to thrive? What does it look like to have a mentally healthy community?” she said. “We can talk about the problem, but what does it really look like to heal and to hold each other with respect and to reduce stigma around mental health and to create many avenues of coping for people of all ages?” m
Reach New Times Staff Writer Libbey Hanson, from the Sun’s sister paper, at lhanson@ newtimesslo.com.
UNDERLYING ANXIETY: Students work to identify the pressures of everyday life with help from CAPSLO’s Teen Wellness Program.
Riding into the future
Caltrans awards SBCAG a $480,000 grant to update Santa Barbara County’s bicycle maps
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
Bike maps help bicyclists identify and navigate routes throughout their region and understand a route’s classification—from multi-use trails to bike lanes on the street. However, Santa Barbara County’s mapping system is outdated by more than a decade, said Lauren Bianchi Klemann, public information officer for the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments.
“With roads and infrastructure, a lot happens on a regular basis, so we don’t have an up-to-date map for bike infrastructure to share with the public right now,” Bianchi Klemann said.
In an effort to update Santa Barbara County’s regional bike map, the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) secured a $480,000 Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant, Bianchi Klemann said.
“We are just really excited to be recognized by the state and receiving this grant,” Bianchi Klemann said.
SBCAG is a 13-member agency that has representatives from every Santa Barbara County jurisdiction to help make regional decisions, Bianchi Klemann said.
“We’re independent from the county. We do regional transportation planning, … we like to solve problems that cross jurisdictional boundaries,” she said.
Although Santa Barbara County’s bike map was reprinted in 2018, it hasn’t been updated since 2013—leaving the current available information outdated as new infrastructure came in place, said Aaron Bonfilio, SBCAG’s director of multimodal programs.
“In addition, Caltrans has developed a classification system for bike routes—while helpful it’s not the most intuitive,” he said.
Now, SBCAG will be able to update its maps thanks to the $480,000 Caltrans grant. In partnership with UC Santa Barbara and Simon Fraser University, over the next two to three years the entities will gather public input and train artificial intelligence to map Santa Barbara County’s bicycle infrastructure and develop a universal wayfinding plan to help identify bike routes and their accessibility.
“This project builds a comfort classification system so bikers know how comfortable they might be on a bike route,” Bonfilio said. “It will be self-updating to a degree so a
digital version will be updated with those same technologies that created it in the first place.”
As more transportation updates get completed in the county, the AI system will automatically make adjustments to the bike routes throughout the region, he said.
“Having a universal standing in terms of wayfinding is helpful from a user standpoint because, as you can imagine, ... [signage standards] might switch from jurisdiction to jurisdiction,” Bonfilio said, adding that the region agreeing on the signage will make it intuitive, easy-to-use, and cohesive as bike riders go between jurisdictions in the county.
Once the wayfinding system is in place, it will also give SBCAG future funding opportunities to help install the signs throughout the region, Bianchi Klemann added.
“One of the most compelling aspects of the project is that it could be replicated throughout California. So that’s really exciting for our entire county,” she said. “We’re really excited to have a reliable and accurate source of information for the public going forward.”
Highlights
• The American Association of University Women (AAUW) Lompoc-Vandenberg Branch announced that it received a $10,000 Movement Building Grant from the Fund for Santa Barbara for two nonpartisan dual language candidate forums. AAUW will collaborate with the League of Women Voters of Northern Santa Barbara County and the city of Lompoc for a venue. In addition, the Future for Lompoc Youth and Allan Hancock College will collaborate with the AAUW and work to engage younger and more diverse voters.
• Lompoc Parks and Recreation will host an end-of-summer Pooch Plunge at the Lompoc Aquatic Center on Aug. 11 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Pet owners must pre-register for each pup with a $10 fee and provide proof of vaccination before participating. There will be limited drop-ins accepted the day of the event. Register at the Andersen Recreation Center, 125 W. Walnut Ave. Find the registration form and the event’s rules at cityoflompoc.com/ recreation. Direct questions to (805) 875-8100. m
Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.
RIDE SAFELY AND COMFORTABLY: After securing a $480,000 state grant, the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments will train artificial intelligence to update the region’s bike maps to demonstrate routes and comfort levels for each path.
What do you think about Santa Maria’s mayoral race?
89% Diana Perez has a strong chance at winning.
8% Alice Patino will keep her seat.
2% I don’t really care about the elections this year.
1% Either candidate would do good things for Santa Maria. 125 Votes
Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.
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Saving democracy?
Democratic Party’s style is to avoid democracy by simply anointing a candidate
BY RON FINK
What is democracy? Merriam-Webster defines it this way: “rule of the majority; a government in which the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised directly by them through a system of representation usually involving periodically held free elections.”
Earlier this year there was a primary election where registered voters of each political party were asked to choose who would represent them in the general election in November. The final tally resulted in the selection of delegates who would be committed to the winner in each state when the party later chose its candidate during a convention.
In the primary election there were several candidates to represent the Republican party; one was chosen. But only the incumbent was chosen to represent Democrats. Note: This is common to both parties.
In 2020 there was a similar process, but in this election there were several Democrat candidates. One of those candidates failed before the first
Opinions are one thing, but keep the facts straight
Kindly allow me space in your paper to correct two flagrant fictions contained in Dan Dennis’s opinion piece of Aug. 1 (“The stakes are too high”).
President Franklin Roosevelt’s Glass-Steagall law was passed in 1933; the Great Depression had been already raging since the collapse of the stock market in October 1929, four years earlier. Glass-Steagall was repealed with the passage of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act by President Bill Clinton in 1999; President Reagan left office in January 1989. These are very important historical facts that must not be spun to sustain any
statewide election in the selection process occurred in Iowa and only placed third in the California primary. Kamala Harris had near zero support from Democrats.
Fast forward to 2024. The Democrats’ chosen candidate was deemed ineffective based on poling data, and the ruling elders of the Democratic Party decided he couldn’t beat the Republican candidate. So, they applied considerable pressure for him to drop out of the campaign, thus usurping the “rule of the majority” and instead put a candidate on the ballot who had no support from the party in the 2020 primary election.
The mantra of Democrats has been that the Republicans must be defeated because they are a “threat to democracy”; based on the above chronical of what has happened over the last few weeks, there is already one political party that defeated democracy.
When we examine the policymaking efforts of Democrats, they lean heavily toward avoiding democracy. How? By voiding a vote of the people and simply anointing a new candidate without following long-standing protocols and dictating who all of you hardworking Democrats would be allowed to vote for in the coming general election.
You should all think carefully about this. In local elections people start by collecting enough signatures for registered voters to get a spot on the ballot. Then they must convince enough people to vote for them.
When Kamala Harris tried to convince folks to support her in 2020, she failed miserably; since she has been in office, she hasn’t been able to complete many of the tasks the president gave her. Instead, she has used simplistic phrases and gestures in most of her appearances at home and abroad to explain herself.
You should give this some thought: Are you willing to simply roll over and play dead and wait for orders from above to cast your vote? I know most Democrats could not support the Republican candidate, but maybe you should all sit this one out at the presidential level and only vote for socalled “down ballot” candidates.
And, if the party “elite” will throw someone who has been loyal to their cause for more than five decades under the bus in favor of someone who didn’t even qualify for a debate in 2020, what would they do to you? Why not wait until 2028 when you might have a choice during the primaries to choose your representative? That’s democracy. m
Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.
narrative, as happens so often in our modern times.
Mr. Dennis is entitled to his opinion, but historical facts are immutable.
L. Platt Alhambra
Let’s teach how to think, not what to think
In response to Ron Fink’s July 25 “What’s the fuss?” commentary about the Ten Commandments in public schools, I have a couple of points to make about the Constitution mandating a separation of church and state. He claims it was not to keep the church out of the
state, but it was that, and to keep government/ state out of the church. This protects both the church and the state from dictating only one way or the highway.
Every country in Europe back then had their own state religion, which caused many wars and pogroms, like the Spanish Inquisition, or the Holocaust, resulting in millions of deaths. We forget why we fought a war to get away from church dictates in England. Instead of the Ten Commandments, we decided to make laws that are basic rules to have a civil society, like Commandments Six through Ten. Don’t harm others being the general moral to live by. Simple. I know this upsets those Christian nationalists who claim that America was founded as a Christian nation. They should read the Federalist Papers Nos. 51 and 52. As Jefferson wrote: “It does me no injury for my neighbour to say there are twenty gods, or no god. It neither picks my pocket nor breaks my leg.” Madison wrote that the religion of each individual must be left to their own conviction and conscience. He also said that such a right is unalienable because each of us must be allowed to make up our own minds and should not follow a dictate of others.
Commandments One through Three are about requiring a belief in a leader to dictate morals. Commandment Four dictates setting aside time to meditate. Commandment Five dictates honoring thy father and mother. Well, what about abusive families? Again, “don’t hurt others” covers these!
Instead, let’s propose teaching ethics in classrooms. This would inevitably show how the world’s religions are similar in many ways. The greater good is discussed. And while we are at it, how about once again teaching civics. Our citizenry has become ignorant of how government operates. Remember the animation of “How A Bill Becomes Law,” “I’m Just a Bill” starting on the educational music television series Schoolhouse Rock March 27, 1976? Schools are there to educate, not dictate certain morals. Schools need to teach how to think, not what to think. This is opposite of a theocracy. This is a skill that needs to be part of the curriculum and has not been for decades. As social media misinformation has become widespread, critical thinking has become more necessary than ever before.
Dan Dennis Orcutt
NEW TIMES AND SUN ANNOUNCE: THE SECOND ANNUAL
PHOTO CONTEST
ENTRY
PERIOD: AUG. 29SEPT. 16, 2024
PUBLISHED: OCTOBER 24, 2024
New normal Opinion
I’m a little confused about a recent Santa Barbara County Planning Commission decision about cannabis—mostly I’m confounded about Commissioner John Parke and his support of a processing project, something I assume he’s against.
You know, he’s always talking about that odor. Cannabis smells impacting quality of life seem to niggle Parke like no other, insinuating itself into every project discussion that comes before the commission. Odor.
Assumptions aren’t always accurate, and in this case, I assumed wrong.
Parke spoke out against an appeal of a Buellton cannabis processing project during the commission’s July 31 meeting, saying the rules were the rules. Cannabis is legal, baby. And if you want to talk about whether it should be, you’re going to have to go to a different governing body.
He was responding to the appellant, Edward Seaman, who appealed the Sierra Botanicals project with Patricia Paulsen over odor concerns.
“If you have the smell of the drug industry wafting over, then you’ve completely changed the experience, and that’s going to hurt us,” he said as the general manager of Restoration Oaks Ranch. “The reminder of the drug industry” wafting over the ranch’s farm is going to hurt families trying to enjoy the farm with their children, he added.
“It’s bad for society,” Seaman said. “It doesn’t belong here.”
Well, we all know where he stands. He must have voted against legalizing weed in California all those years ago. Unfortunately for him, he was in the minority, and majority rules. Pot, weed,
grass, cannabis, the devil’s lettuce, ganja, reefer, Mary Jane—whatever you want to call it—can be grown, processed, packaged, and sold in the state. And as an agricultural operation, it can set up shop next to the ranch.
What if it was a Xanax manufacturer? Would he be bitching about the “drug industry”?
Seaman’s arguments, commissioners said, were beyond the scope of the project.
“If you’re a vegan and you don’t like cows being eaten or turned into shoe leather, that doesn’t mean it’s relevant for the Planning Commission to consider when we look at zoning on a cattle ranch,” Parke said. Wait, cattle get turned into shoe leather? I thought happy cows come from California, not shoe-leather cows!
Odor concerns, the commission said, were controlled to the extent that they possibly could be with carbon scrubbers, the best available technology.
Much to Seaman’s chagrin, not only did the commission throw the appeal out, there’s another cannabis project getting prepped to tuck in next to the ranch. Seaman, though, said he wouldn’t take his eyes off that project from TAT Ventures LLC, a project that Parke requested get delayed over … you guessed it, odor! Ugh! There’s that word again.
“I’m going to appeal this every step of the way,” Seaman said. “My argument is: It’s not compatible with us.”
Oh. Maybe you aren’t compatible with it. I hear Texas is nice this time of year! And, hey, that odoriferous weed is still illegal there—although federal plans might derail that. Sounds like some of us just need to get used to the new normal, whether we like it or not. m
The Canary is cannabis compatible. Send recommendations to canary@santamariasun.com.
Hot Stuff
ARTS
The American Legion Post 534 in Orcutt will host its first pop-up craft fair fundraiser on Saturday, Aug. 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature crafts of various media from more than a dozen participating artisans. For more info on the fair, visit Post 534’s Facebook page or text or call (805) 863-7967.
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. 805-928-7799. Kleindancesarts.com. KleinDance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria. DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.
GODSPELL A musical retelling of the Gospel according to Matthew. This extravaganza from the creator of Wicked is a must-see. Presented by SMCT. Aug. 9-25 smct.org. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE: WEST COAST SWING Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45 p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 832-884-8114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt. POP-UP CRAFT FAIR Come on out and show your support at this pop-up craft fair at the American Legion. There will be arts and crafts, handmade goodies, face painting, food vendors. Perfect time to start some early Christmas shopping. Aug. 10 10 a.m.-4 p.m. American Legion Post 534, 145 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL
Sheryl Knight and Linda Mutti are award-
winning and celebrated artists and will be sharing their works at the Gallery Los Olivos. Artist reception is Aug. 3. MondaysSundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Aug. 31 805-688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. CABARET The iconic musical. Presented by PCPA. Through Aug. 25 Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG PATTERNS, SPACES, AND PLACES With Neil Andersson, Deborah Breedon, and Chuck Klein. A talented trio of longstanding valley artists showcase their unique styles in painting and fine woodworking at the Cypress Gallery. Artist reception: Aug. 4, from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Aug. 25 Free. 805-7371129. lompocart.org/. Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
ARTISAN MARKET A great opportunity to meet and support more than a dozen local artists in Cypress Ridge and the surrounding community. Artisans will showcase their original creations. Featuring painters, jewelry designers, fabric art, and more. Free parking. Aug. 17 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free entry. 805-720-0582. designsbytinalouise.com. FItForever Gym, 1080 Cypress Ridge Parkway, Arroyo Grande.
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
FOOTLOOSE This iteration of the hit musical is presented by Coastal Performing Arts
Foundation’s new branch, Players West. Aug. 8-11 clarkcenter.org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, 805-489-9444.
GALLERY AT MONARCH DUNES: THIRD
QUARTER ART EXHIBIT The Gallery at Monarch Dunes in Nipomo at Trilogy is now displaying its 2024 Third Quarter Exhibit of original works of art from 17 Trilogy artist residents. The art displayed includes a wide range of techniques and styles as well as stunning photography. Aug. 10 1-3 p.m. and Aug. 17, 1-3 p.m. Free. Gallery at Monarch Dunes, 1640 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo, 805-343-7500.
GUNSMOKIN’ Through Sept. 7 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ADULT BEGINNING WHEEL POTTERY
SERIES This series is a great intro to the pottery wheel. Students learn to throw various shapes and more. $180 includes clay and firing. By signing up for a four-week session, you are committing to a series of classes. Book online. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Aug. 27 $180. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. ALL AGES CARTOONING WORKSHOP WITH KANE LYNCH Join Scholastic cartoonist Kane Lynch for an all ages cartooning event. Whether you’re an accomplished creator or this is your very first time putting pencil to paper, you’ll be able to create a unique comic of your own to take home. Aug. 11, 1-2:30 p.m. $25. 805801-6188. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com.
New Times and the Sun now share their community listings for a complete Central Coast calendar running from SLO County through northern Santa Barbara County. Submit events online by logging in with your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account at newtimesslo.com. You may also email calendar@newtimesslo.com. Deadline is one week before the issue date on Thursdays. Submissions are subject to editing and approval. Contact Calendar Editor Caleb Wiseblood directly at cwiseblood@newtimesslo.com.
Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
AVA DUVERNAY’S ORIGIN This film screening is a NAACP SLO County Branch fundraiser at the SLO High School Auditorium. Free parking. Tickets can be purchased online. Aug. 10 7-10 p.m. $25 or $30. 805-619-5354. naacpslocty.org. San Luis Obispo High School, 1499 San Luis Dr., San Luis Obispo.
CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing 805-8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
COLORS OF CONSERVATION ART
SHOW The Land Conservancy is thrilled to invite you to this summer’s Colors of Conservation Art Show at the Octagon Barn Center. Come enjoy wine and bites while experiencing the San Luis Obispo Painters for the Environment (SLOPE) artists’ work celebrating our conserved lands. Aug. 9 5-8 p.m. and Aug. 10 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. lcslo.org/events/colorsof-conservation-art-exhibition/. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096.
DATE NIGHT PAINTING WORKSHOP With Drew Davis. Aug. 10 5 p.m. my805tix.com. Drew Davis Fine Art, 393 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.
DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date
and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece. Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
LEARN HOW TO PAINT IN OIL WITH FRANK EBER Learn value, color mixing, edges, underpainting, principles of design, and composition. Start painting immediately while learning the foundations of oil painting. Tuesdays, 2:30-5:30 p.m. through Sept. 17 $295 for six classes. 805747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
MARIA MOLTENI: CELESTIAL
ANTIPHONY Celestial Antiphony creates a cycle of beats on the fingers and illustrates a childhood shortcut for praying the Rosary when beads have gone missing. The artist has returned to the modular, rhythmic orb-based practice of prayer, which transcends boundaries of faith and constructs of time. Through Nov. 11 Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ maria-molteni/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
OIL PAINTING: IMPRESSIONISTIC
REALISM WITH FRANK EBER Learn how to paint lively, expressive oil paintings with a focus on color accuracy, mark making, and the interconnection of each element. Learn techniques to bring your painting skills to the next level. This class is great for intermediate or advanced painters. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Sept. 17 $295 for six classes. 805747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS
This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age. Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
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. THINK LIKE A CARTOONIST WITH LEIGH RUBIN Come to the library for a hilarious comic adventure inside the mind of RIT’s Cartoonist-in-Residence, Leigh Rubin, “sit-down” comedian and creator of the nationally-syndicated cartoon, Rubes Cartoons. Along with his friends, Rubin is the author of “Think Like a Cartoonist.” Aug. 10, 2-3 p.m. Free. 805-781-5991. slolibrary.org. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
WHOSE WATERS? This Gray Wing exhibition will build upon the photojournalistic work of Southern California artist Gabriella Angotti-Jones whose I Just Wanna Surf book highlights Black female and non-binary surfers and other unseen or outright ignored communities that ride the waves off the Golden State. Through Oct. 20, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ surf-show/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY AUGUST ARTISTS RECEPTION AND ATRIUM PARTY Come meet the artists, be inspired, enjoy food, refreshments, a tree filled atrium, and all the businesses in Marina Square. Featuring Virginia Mack, Gay McNeal, and Marjorie Zlotowitz. Aug. 10, 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
DEATH TRAP A washed up playwright receives a script from a former student and decides to claim it as his own ... “But what to do with the student?” Aug. 16 - Sept. 1 By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay, bytheseaproductions.org.
FINE ART TEXTILES BY GAY MCNEAL This artist appreciates the multifaceted role that textiles have played in the art and material cultures of many societies. Her creative high comes from the process of trying out the multitude of techniques, both old and new, to create art and quilts. Through Aug. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-
TEDDY WARES
—Caleb Wiseblood
PHOTO COURTESY OF MARYANN JOHNSON
772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FINE ART WATERCOLORS BY VIRGINIA MACK This artist’s inspiration comes from nature. Her passion is enjoying natural areas wherever she is and responding to each area through her paintings and drawings. She has made hundreds of journeys on the bay in her kayak and developed many pieces inspired by those journeys. Through Aug. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FREE LINOCUT DEMO The MBAA presents a free linocut printmaking demonstration by local artist Liz Lucas. Attendees will have the opportunity to create their own linocut print. Aug. 12 , 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.
INTRODUCTION TO STAINED GLASS WITH DEBORAH WOGAN Learn to cut glass, solder, and use tools and materials safely to create a window. Students will work with abstract and geometric designs using the copper foil method of construction. Price includes all materials. See website for full details. Aug. 13 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $115. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org/index.php/products/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.
JEWELRY BY MARJORIE ZLOTOWITZ “Ever since we humans figured out how to string stones and bones, we’ve adorned ourselves with things we find aesthetically pleasing.” This artist loves the colors, shapes, and textures of natural stones, various metals, and vintage beads. Through Aug. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
STROMSOE STUDIOS (OPEN STUDIO BY RESERVATION) Tour this traditional metal smithing studio by appointment, and gain access to an exclusive selection of hand forged contemporary jewelry, tableware, and heirloom quality art in silver, copper, and pewter. Second Sunday of every month, 12-4 p.m. through Aug. 11 Free with RSVP. 805-237-8632. Randy Stromsoe Metalsmith, Highway 46 West, SLO County, randystromsoe.com.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: TASSEL EARRINGS Learn how to turn thread into fun tassel earrings. All materials will be provided. Registration is required. For ages 18 and older. Aug. 9, 4-5:30 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/ services/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. 805937-9750. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing 805-343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe. ORCUTT MINERAL SOCIETY Second Tuesday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, 805-937-9750. TABLETOP GAMING WITH SANTA MARIA ADVENTURER’S LEAGUE Be prepared for epic excitement with tabletop gaming presented by the Santa Maria Adventurer’s League. Everyone is welcome regardless of previous experience. Space is limited and registration is required. Aug. 11 , 1-4:30 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. SANTA YNEZ VALLEY STATE OF THE DISABLED UNION: CULTURAL SUNDAYS TALK AT ARROWSMITH’S Speakers will draw from personal experiences, which are sometimes humorous, as well as some moments from interviews with people in the field from their podcast, called “The Disability Myth,” on the subject of living with disabilities today, to describe the State of the Disabled Union. Aug. 11 5-7 p.m. Free. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG 2024 LOMPOC POLICE CAR SHOW The show highlights various makes and models of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and bikes. Proceeds of the events will benefit the Lompoc Police Association Youth Sports Program and the Lompoc Police Foundation. Aug. 9, 5-8 p.m. and Aug. 10, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. my805tix.com. Old Town Lompoc, H and I St., Lompoc. KRIYA II MEDITATION RETREAT: DEEPEN YOUR PRACTICE Do you feel a calling to advance and deepen your Kriya practice? Take your meditation to the next level using Kriya II, at this indepth retreat, through breath, movement, study, and meditation. Receive the second initiation of Kriya Yoga as a powerful tool for awakening. Aug. 8 4 p.m. and Aug. 11 1 p.m. $340. 805-7366528. sunburst.org. Sunburst Retreat Center, 7200 CA-1, Lompoc.
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.
DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its meeting on the third Saturday of each month. For more information, follow on Facebook at Bishop’s Peak EGA or visit the EGA website. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 16 Free. egausa.com. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach, 805-773-4832.
GROVER BEACH COMMUNITY LIBRARY BOOK SALE
Includes a big selection of hardback fiction books, plus tons of paperbacks, non-fiction, classics, research, tabletop, and collectibles. Cash only. Rain cancels. Aug. 10 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free to attend. 805-481-4131. groverbeachlibrary.org. Grover Beach Community Library, 240 N 9th St., Grover Beach.
LITTLE RANGERS: OCEAN FUN Calling all “Little Rangers.” Learn about the incredible ocean life found along our coastline. RSVP is required to attend: 805-474-2664 or email sarah. holden@parks.ca.gov. For ages 3-7. Aug. 11 10-11 a.m. Free. 805474-2664. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.
MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK
COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52 Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological. Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. 805-547-1715. new. nawcc.org/index.php/chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.
NATIONAL RELAXATION DAY AT SYCAMORE Celebrate National Relaxation Day at Sycamore Mineral Spring Resort and Spa. Enjoy a free day of wellness focused activations designed to set you at ease. Aug. 15, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-595-7302. my805tix.com. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach.
POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. 805-440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.
THE SLO VENTURA INVITATIONAL Players from San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties are invited to participate in a twoman scramble tournament across two of the most stunning coastal courses (Monarch Dunes Golf Course and Morro Bay Golf Course) in the area. Aug. 10 and Aug. 11 my805tix.com. Monarch Dunes Golf Course, 1606 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo, 805-343-9459.
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. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Looking for a fun and educational opportunity this summer? Join the aquarium’s Volunteer Team. No marine science experience is necessary. There are lots of ways to get involved. Check out website for more details. Tuesdays. through Sept. 30 centralcoastaquarium.org. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach, 805-595-7280.
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.
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.
WMW HIGH VIBE HIKE Hosted by Women Making Waves (WMW). Aug. 10, 9-11 a.m. my805tix.com. Pismo Preserve, Mattie Road, Pismo Beach.
ALWAYS AMAZING. NEVER ROUTINE.
with
&
learn new strategies to ease the struggle. Find out more online. Mondays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. through Aug. 19 Free. 805-242-8182. adhdallies.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
ADULT ADHD SUPPORT GROUP Learn more about how unique ADHD is to each individual and the environments around them. Connect with other adults walking a similar road and learn new strategies to ease the struggle. Find out more online. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. through Aug. 18 Free. 805-242-8182. adhdallies.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
AGING GRACEFULLY WITH PREVENTATIVE
CARE “We can’t stop getting older, but we can shift our thinking about it.” Moving from “I can’t do anything about it” to “I have some control over how my mind and body ages.” Series sponsored by Unity Five Cities. Details from chris@peacefulpoint.com. Over Zoom. Wednesdays, 6-7:30 p.m. through Nov. 20 Love offering. (805) 489-7359. unity5cities.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
BEACH PARTY GYMNASTICS CAMP With gymnastics, themed crafts and games, and educational trivia. Features trampolines, bars, beams, foam pits, and more. Ages 4-13. Aug. 12-14 $40-$145 depending on which options you choose. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/camps.
Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. 559-905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
BRIDGING THE GAP: JOIN THE CONVERSATION The community’s support empowers this group to deliver essential services, while fostering healing, growth, and resilience among individuals affected by the justice system. Help forge connections within our broader community, nurturing safer, more inclusive neighborhoods. The group’s mission centers on restoration, healing, and fostering accountability. Aug. 16 5:30-9 p.m. $75-$150. 805-242-1272. restorativepartners.org/bridgingthe-gap/. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.
GUIDED ENERGETIC MEDITATION Are you energetically sensitive? This reoccurring weekly class will be a guided Introduction to Energetic Meditation Techniques that will assist you to: clear your energy field, improve energy flow and energy boundaries, quiet and focus your mind, and be clearer about “Who You Really Are.” Mondays, 6:30-8 p.m. through Nov. 30 $22. 503-929-6416. elohiacupuncture.com/classes/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP
A safe place to share life experiences with those who have depression or have had and recovered from the devastating effects of depression. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free. 805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
KIDS’ PARTY PARADISE: DREAM BIG Want
4.5 child-free hours on a Saturday night?
Drop your kiddos off at Kids’ Party Paradise. They’ll have a blast with pizza, a movie, and gymnastics fun. Aug. 10, 5-9:30 p.m. $50 for one child; $70 for two siblings. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/kids-partyparadise. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE Stretch into yourself under the beautiful oaks and fresh air of this idyllic country setting. Suitable for all levels, these classes emphasize the gentler side of yoga and adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for fiveclass card with no expiration. 805-440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Tiber Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, San Luis Obispo. METAPHYSICAL/SPIRITUALITY BOOK CLUB
A weekly book discussion, on a wide variety of titles from the general subject of metaphysics, spirituality, and comparative religion. By
TAKE A LOOK
The Grover Beach Community Library hosts its next outdoor book sale on Saturday, Aug. 10, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Held in the library’s parking lot, the sale will include a large selection of books in various categories, including novels and nonfiction books. Only cash will be accepted for purchases. Admission to attend the sale is free. Rain cancels the event. Visit groverbeachlibrary.org for more info.
invitation. For more information, contact David Higgins, email: davidhiggins67@gmail.com. Location revealed to those invited. Wednesdays Free. rationalmetaphysics.com. Private location, TBA, Location not to be published. MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.
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.
PLUG-IN TO LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION Get inspired by local action, connect with others, and discover more ways to get involved with the SLO Climate Coalition. Attend virtually or in-person. Sustainable snacks and childcare will be provided. Third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. Ludwick Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, San Luis Obispo.
Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)
This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
QIGONG FITNESS ONLINE Register now for QiGong Fitness Online with San Luis Coastal Adult School. Classes begin in August. With Gary West, instructor. Mondays-Sundays. through Aug. 15 $115 per semester. 805-5491222. slcusd.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
QIGONG ONLINE Register now for QiGong Online with Gary West, of San Luis Coastal Adult School. Great practice for balance, wellness, mindfulness, and vitality. Wednesdays, 9:30-10:35 a.m. through Dec. 12 $115 per semester. 805-549-1222. ae.slcusd.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
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
free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.
TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender nonconforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.
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.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, 805772-2840, sttimothymorrobay.org.
environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime. toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.
SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace for this outdoor class which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email before attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805-709-2227. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.
SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
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. 805540-6576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
TOPSY TURVY GYMNASTICS CAMP Get the wiggles out with gymnastics, themed crafts and games, and educational trivia. For ages 4-13. Through Aug. 9, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $40$360 depending on which options you choose. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/ camps. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
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
CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom). For information, call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, 805-927-1654.
HIKE-IN OPEN HOUSE
Enjoy the scenery on a 4-mile round trip hike to the Piedras Blancas Light Station. Park at the elephant seal viewing area 1.5 miles south of the light station or the vista point 1 mile north. Aug. 14 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; suggested donation $5 per person. 805-927-7361. piedrasblancas.org/hike-in-openhouse. Piedras Blancas Light Station, 15950 Cabrillo Highway, San Simeon. MORRO BAY HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2004 REUNION It’s time to set your course (and mark your calendar) for an epic 20-year reunion. Starts with a dance party at the Siren. Visit site for full lineup of events. Aug. 16-18 my805tix.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, 805-225-1312.
FOOD & DRINK
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
CHISMOSAS Y MIMOSAS DRAG BRUNCH
The show will be hosted by an incredible drag performer and Santa Maria native, Missy V, in both English and Spanish. Aug. 17 11 a.m. my805tix.com. A Mi Manera Mexican Cuisine, 1701 N. Broadway, Santa Maria. FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays 805-922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE INN Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805-332-3532, winestoneinn.com/. FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.
PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/ club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, 805-937-8110.
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.
SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com.
Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.
TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER
Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check
Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/ orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
ANNUAL BLACK BEAR RESERVE DINNER
Dine under the the glowing bistro lights of a courtyard while you enjoy live music from James Rankin and Brian Kinsella, delicious food from Valley Piggery, and incredible wine. Aug. 17 5-7:30 p.m. 805-688-9339. zacamesa.com. Zaca Mesa Winery, 6905 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO
TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head Games
Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com.
COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave, Lompoc.
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.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
DISTILLERY TRAIL WEEKEND KICK-OFF
PARTY Visit site for tickets and more info. Aug. 9, 6 p.m. my805tix.com. Krobar Craft Distillery, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
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.
SUNSET WINE/RAIL EXCURSION:
SANTA BARBARA These fully-hosted, docent-led excursions will depart from the SLO Railroad Museum at 11 a.m. taking a motor coach to the Santa Barbara Wine Collective. Aug. 17 my805tix.com. San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, 1940 Santa Barbara Ave., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-1894.
MUSIC
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
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.
HAWAIIAN BEACH PARTY DANCE The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens Club presents a Hawaiian Beach Party dance with Riptide Big Band, vocalists Bob Nations and Mitch Latting, and dancer Yuka Freeman. Free thanks to grant funding by the Community Foundation of SLO County. Aug. 11 1:30-4 p.m. Free. 775-
COLORFUL CACTI
Cypress Gallery in Lompoc presents its latest group exhibition, titled Patterns, Spaces, and Places, which opened in early August and is scheduled to remain on display through Sunday, Aug. 25. Hosted by the Lompoc Valley Art Association, this exhibit showcases pieces from featured artists Deborah Breedon (whose work is pictured), Neil Andersson, and Chuck Klein. To find out more about this new trio show, visit lompocart.org.
—C.W.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
813-5186. RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria. 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 AT STELLER’S CELLAR Enjoy live music most Fridays at the venue. Call venue or check website to find out who’s performing. Fridays 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.
SOME GIRLS LIVE A tribute to The Rolling Stones. Aug. 10, 4-9 p.m. my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777.
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.
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.
MUSIC IN THE GARDEN This ongoing summer concert series spotlights a variety of musical acts. Afternoon performances held on various Sunday afternoons throughout the summer. Through Sept. 1 Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.
SITRASON LIVE Part of the Music in the Garden series. Visit site for more info. Aug. 11 3 p.m. $37. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
COLONEL ANGUS LIVE Visit site for tickets and more details on this live concert. Aug. 9, 7-11 p.m. my805tix.com. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714.
Santa Barbara VintnersFestival
2024 LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE CONCERT SERIES These Saturday afternoon concerts are limited and will sell out, so make your purchase early to secure your spot. Saturdays, 2:30-5 p.m. through Oct. 12 my805tix.com.
Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
GROVER BEACH SUMMER CONCERTS
2024 Featuring some of best local and regional bands all summer long. Food, craft vendors, and activities for the kids. Free and all ages welcome. Sundays, 3-6 p.m. through Aug. 18 Free. 805-473-4580. groverbeach.org. Ramona Garden Park Center, 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
GHOST\MONSTER AND NOACH
TANGERAS: CONCERTS IN THE PLAZA Noach Tangeras (Americana) and ghost\ monster (rock). Free bike valet parking. Aug. 9 5-8 p.m. Free. DowntownSLO.com/ Concerts. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo.
LIVE MUSIC AT KROBAR Enjoy live music at Krobar, which showcases local, talented artists of all music genres. Kickoff your weekend right, grab your favorite seasonal craft cocktail, and vibe to the sounds of the night. Follow on Instagram to find out who is playing. Every other Friday, 6-9 p.m. and Saturdays, 6-9 p.m. through Aug. 31 Free entry. 833-576-2271. krobardistillery.com/events. Krobar Craft Distillery, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
LIVE MUSIC FROM GUITAR WIZ BILLY
FOPPIANO AND MAD DOG Join “Guitar
Wiz” Billy Foppiano and his trusty side kick Mad Dog for a mix of blues, R&B, and more. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 805-544-2100. Bon Temps Creole Cafe, 1819 Osos Street, San Luis Obispo, bontempscreolecafe.com.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
DIRTY CELLO: FLESH AND THE DEVIL
The Cambria Film Festival presents a special outdoor showing of the film Flesh and the Devil starring Greta Garbo at the lovely Parr Collective at Stolo Vineyards in Cambria. This silent film era classic will feature a soundtrack performed Dirty Cello. Aug. 8 7-11 p.m. $30. 805-234-3887. cambriafilmfestival.com. Stolo Family Vineyards, 3776 Santa Rosa Creek Rd., Cambria. m
VINEYARD & FARM BUELLTON, CALIFORNIA Sat ur day, Oc tober 19th, 2024 Noon - 4pm ·
CALIFORNIA PAID FAMILY LEAVE GRANT
January 31st | 4:30pm-6:00pm | Historic Santa Maria Inn 801 S Broadway, Santa Maria, CA 93454
The California Paid Family Leave Grant allows eligible small businesses to apply for grants up to $2,000 per employee to offset the increased costs associated with the employee out on leave, including aid for training and upskilling existing staff to cover the duties of the employee on California’s Paid Family Leave; hiring and training additional staff to cover the duties of the employee on California’s Paid Family Leave; and marketing, recruitment, and other reasonably foreseeable training costs.
ARTS BRIEFS
County Youth Poet Laureate hosts reading at Solvang Library
Born in Santa Barbara and raised in the Santa Ynez Valley, Jasmine Guerrero Sevilla holds the prestigious title of youth poet laureate of Santa Barbara County. In early August, Sevilla led a free workshop in Solvang for young writers ranging from ages 9 to 12.
On Saturday, Aug. 10, Sevilla and the workshop’s students will take part in a live poetry reading at the Solvang Library. The free reading starts at noon and is open to the public. Attendees are asked to RSVP by calling (805) 688-4214 or emailing solvanglibrary@cityofgoleta.org The Solvang Library is located at 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang.
A recent graduate of Santa Ynez High School, Sevilla was declared Santa Barbara County’s youth poet laureate earlier this year through the National Youth Poet Laureate Program, which aims to identify, celebrate, and honor teen poets who exhibit a commitment to artistic excellence and civic engagement, according to press materials.
To learn more about the program, visit youthlaureate.org.
Solvang Festival Theater brings PCPA’s Cabaret to its stage
The Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA) presents its production of Cabaret at the Solvang Festival Theater, with performances through Aug. 25. This iteration of the iconic musical opened at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria where it ran in late July, and moved to Solvang in early August.
Set in Berlin during the 1930s, Cabaret follows a vibrant cast of characters as they “navigate love, ambition, and the looming shadows of a changing world,” according to press materials. The production’s creative team includes director Emily Trask, who described the show’s setting as a world “where glamour and sleaze, excess and repression, decadence and decay, the scintillating and the sinister intertwine.”
“I invite you to embrace its subversive spirit, enjoy yourself, tap your toes, challenge your perceptions, and confront the uncomfortable truths it lays bare,” Trask said in press materials.
Cabaret ’s ensemble cast includes Erika Olson (pictured) as Sally Bowles, Diva LaMarr as Emcee, George Walker as Cliff, Kitty Balay as Fraulein Shultz, Billy Breed as Herr Schultz, Mike Fiore as Ernst, Molly Dobbs as Fraulein Kost/Fritzie, Marisa Moenho as Rosie, Sydni Ramirez as Frenchie, Odessa Laurie as Helga, and Sophia Caressa as Lulu.
For tickets or more info on the show, call PCPA’s box office at (805) 928-8313 or visit pcpa.org. The Solvang Festival Theater is located at 420 2nd St., Solvang. m Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
Art with heart
FitForever Gym’s Artisan Market unites artists, benefits local dog rescue
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Treadmills. Ellipticals. Kettlebells. Heavy, metallic appliances are in no short supply at Arroyo Grande’s FitForever Gym, where weightlifters and cyclists would be hard-pressed to find any apparatuses made of glass, beads, pearls, or shells.
At the gym’s upcoming Artisan Market, however, there’ll be an eye-catching assortment of handcrafted jewelry made of those and other majestic materials. The Aug. 17 event’s participating vendors include artists that hail from Santa Maria, Nipomo, Oceano, and other areas along the Central Coast.
Arroyo Grande resident Tina Doherty organized the Aug. 17 event with collaborator and FitForever Gym owner Lauren Westbay. Those scheduled to showcase and sell their wares at the market were charged an entry fee in order to participate. The majority of those fees, minus some event expenses, will go toward supporting a local cause close to Westbay’s heart.
“I said, ‘What’s your favorite charity?’” Doherty recalled asking Westbay while planning for the market, which will include artisan booths stationed along the gym’s outdoor patio area.
The gym owner’s answer was Le Woof Rescue, a grassroots group based in Los Alamos that helps find forever homes for dogs it rescues from overcrowded shelters, euthanasia lists, and other dire circumstances. Westbay is one of the organization’s volunteer foster animal providers.
Doherty had previously worked with Westbay on sip-and-shop-type events before collaborating with her on the Artisan Market, which will feature paintings, fabric art, quilt art, floral arrangements, and more from more than a dozen participants.
Nipomo residents
Cheryl Carlson and Maggie Pickering and Arroyo Grande resident Nancy Valentine are among the names found on the market’s list of featured jewelry designers, which also includes Doherty.
“I’m always trying to find things that might inspire me,” said Doherty, who has collected oodles of jewelry-crafting materials over the years from estate sales, thrift stores, and other outlets.
With a home studio supplied with ample amounts of beads, crystals, and other resources to work from or save for future projects, Doherty said there’s “a fine line between hoarding and knowing you’re going to use something and actually use it.”
A variety of Doherty’s handcrafted earrings and necklaces will be available for sale at the Artisan Market. Among the various media slated for inclusion, there will be paintings available from a handful of artists, including Santa Maria residents Craig Trapp and Adrian Luna and Nipomo residents Myles Herman and Anne
Fit check
FitForever Gym in Arroyo Grande will hold its upcoming Artisan Market on Saturday, Aug. 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event’s featured artisans are Tina Doherty, Anne Kunzig, Myles Herman, Judy Wood, Craig Trapp,
For info on the
email tina.doherty@ designsbytinalouise.com. FitForever Gym is located at 1080 Cypress Ridge Parkway, Arroyo Grande.
Kunzig—who previously used acrylics before zeroing in on a painting method that requires a computer rather than a brush.
For the past two years, Kunzig’s favorite art form has been digital painting, specifically through the Paint.NET program. The local retiree first used the software while working as a landscape designer.
“I was using the program to show clients before-and-after pictures,” Kunzig said. “I would take a picture of their garden and do a mock-up of what it would look like.”
Guests of the Artisan Market can look forward to seeing a collection of Kunzig’s digital paintings, many of which are colorful landscapes and seascapes that incorporate elements of realism and fantasy.
“I’ve always liked to put some quirkiness in my work,” said Kunzig, who once painted a boat with butterfly wings instead of sails. “I’ll add some imaginative elements ... to make it more fun and whimsical.” m
If Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood was a Star Trek character, he’d be Captain Quirk. Send comments to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY YOUTH POET LAUREATE PROGRAM
Cheryl Carlson, Rich Wilke, Lori Sherry, Adrian Luna, Lisa Ferson-Zavala, Maggie Pickering, Nancy Valentine, Melissa Walker-Scott, Jeanne Surber, and Ronald Glahn.
market,
THE LARK SIDE OF THE MOON: Nipomo-based digital painter Anne Kunzig (whose work is pictured) is one of several local artists featured in FitForever Gym’s Artisan Market. The participating artisans’ entry fees will benefit Le Woof Rescue, an animal rescue based in Los Alamos.
COURTESY IMAGE BY ANNE KUNZIG
COURTESY PHOTO BY LUIS ESCOBAR, REFLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO
PHOTO BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
SEA FOR YOURSELF: Arroyo Grande resident Tina Doherty uses sea glass, beads, pearls, and more to craft necklaces and other jewelry.
PHOTO BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
FROM EAR TO EAR: FitForever Gym’s upcoming Artisan Market was organized by local jewelry crafter Tina Doherty, whose earrings and other items will be available for sale at the event.
COURTESY IMAGE BY ANNE KUNZIG
PIXEL PERFECT: Formerly an acrylic painter, Anne Kunzig began dabbling in the world of digital painting about two years ago. Kunzig uses Paint.NET to create her colorful works.
THE MAC & CHEESE FEST
Evening with Amy Sedaris Pablo Sáinz-Villegas: Guitar Masterworks Mark O’Connor’s An Appalachian Christmas, featuring Maggie O’Connor
18 JAN 17 Pink Martini featuring China Forbes: 30th Anniversary Tour
Maryna Krut
Psycho killer
Writer-director M. Night Shyamalan (The Sixth Sense, Signs, Lady in the Water) helms this psychological thriller about a serial killer called The Butcher, but even serial killers can have kids, and this one, whose actual name is Cooper (Josh Hartnett), takes his daughter Riley (Ariel Donoghue) to a stadium concert by pop star Lady Raven (Saleka Shyamalan), only to discover the concert is a trap designed to catch him. Surrounded by 20,000plus fans and 300 cops, can he find a way out? (105 min.)
Glen: This one requires a massive suspension of disbelief because the premise is downright preposterous. In what world would law enforcement lure a serial killer to a concert attended by thousands of innocent people and trap him inside with them? It’s idiotic. That said, if you can just go with it, Trap is a fun little ride as we watch Cooper—a calculating and clever monster—navigate through a phalanx of police led by FBI profiler Dr. Josphine Grant (Hayley Mills). The script manages to tie up a few other contrivances along the way, but it never manages to overcome its central implausibility. Still, it arrives at some unexpected places and ramps up the tension along the way. Hartnett delivers a very creepy performance as Cooper, a man with the appearance of normality who can effortlessly separate his family life from his
SILENT FALLOUT
What’s it rated? Not rated
When? Monday, Aug. 12, at 5 p.m. (reserve a free ticket at eventbrite.com)
TRAP
murderous life … until he can’t. That, too, may strain credulity, but remember the BTK killer? The churchgoing family man was a pillar of his community who tortured and murdered between 10 and 12 victims. People like Cooper are out there.
What’s it rated? PG-13
What’s it worth, Anna? Matinee
What’s it worth, Glen? Matinee
Where’s it showing? Regal
Edwards RPX Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc, Regal
Edwards Arroyo Grande
Anna: Cooper is an interesting character. While all appearances indicate he’s an adoring dad whose joy in life seems to be making Riley happy, we quickly realize that he’s got a dirty little secret on his phone in the form of a camera that shows his current victim locked up in an unknown location. He’s got a knack with people, and when he suspects something is up with all the security at the concert, he talks merch vendor Jamie (Jonathan Langdon) into fessing up on the FBI’s plot. He also sweet talks a few other key bits of info from people throughout the movie, and it’s easy to see why people trust Cooper. I wasn’t particularly looking forward to a film where we were stuck in a concert that seems like a clear grab at showcasing Shyamalan’s daughter’s music, but Saleka Shyamalan has chops—both singing and acting, and the film did a nice job of featuring her music while telling Cooper’s story. I definitely had to suspend a whole lot of disbelief, but once I got OK with the premise being absolutely out there, I had some fun with this one—and in the end I even had some questions answered that I didn’t expect would be resolved.
Glen: I was pleasantly surprised that casting Saleka wasn’t crass nepotism. I was also surprised
to find her so deeply part of the plot. I figured she’d just be singing songs, but in the third act she became a major player. We also eventually meet the rest of Cooper’s family, wife Rachel (Alison Pill) and son Logan (Lochlan Miller). As usual, the director shows up in a cameo. If you watch, stay for the credits. Jamie the merch seller makes a very funny return. I think M. Night is well aware that the story is ridiculous, and this little end-credits wink is his way of saying, “I
know it’s dumb, but you had fun, right?” Anna: It’s fun to watch Cooper calculate, and it’s fun to watch those around him attempt to take him down. It’s not one you can think about too closely without rolling your eyes, but it keeps you hooked from start to finish. m
New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
Where’s it showing? Unitarian Universalists San Luis Obispo (2201 Lawson Ave.)
SLO Mothers for Peace hosts a screening of Silent Fallout on Monday, Aug. 12, and director Hideaki Ito will attend the threehour event and screen his documentary revealing the untold story of the victims of nuclear testing here in America and around the world. The documentary is narrated by Alec Baldwin. The film opens in 1951 and describes the U.S. testing of nuclear weapons in Nevada before quickly fast-forwarding to present day Salt Lake City, Utah, and former journalist Mary Dickson as she chronicles growing up in the ’50s and ’60s and the unusual illnesses and deaths of her elementary school classmates. Dickson believes the nuclear tests 2,000 miles away—thanks to prevailing winds that carried radiation into her community—were responsible.
During this same period in St. Louis, Missouri, Dr. Louise Reiss began collecting and studying baby teeth from other mothers in her community and discovered children there had also been exposed to dangerous amounts of radiation, particularly strontium-90. As her study expanded nationwide,
KILLER:
her results held. Kids across the country had been exposed. It’s a devastating part of U.S. history.
Admission is free; however, Mothers for Peace encourages donations through its website (mothersforpeace.org/donate) or at the event. (76 min.)
—Glen
FERNGULLY:
THE LAST RAINFOREST
What’s it rated? G When? 1992
Where’s it showing? The Palm Theatre on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 10 and 11, at 1:30 p.m.
My favorite troublemaking fairy is back on the big screen! Crysta (voiced by Samantha Mathis) is fixated on seeing what lies beyond the boundaries of FernGully and tales of the fictional creatures called humans. When she accidentally shrinks Zac (Jonathan Ward), a human working for the lumber company that’s set to destroy Crysta’s home, the two begin a misadventure and a quest to stop Hexxus (Tim Curry)—a blobby, oily monster who feeds off of pollution.
It’s been a while since I’ve watched this film, but it’s one of the few animated flicks that I still watch when I come across it. There’s a lot of talent here—Curry voices an absolutely awful villain, and Robin Williams voices Batty Koda, a motormouth and mess of a best friend to Crysta and an absolute joy to be around. They both steal the show, each with their own musical numbers as well.
With messages that promote environmental stewardship, interpersonal relationships, and community awareness, this
DEMENTED: Cooper (Josh Hartnett), a serial killer known as The Butcher, discovers a concert he’s attending with his daughter is a law enforcement operation designed to apprehend him, in Trap, screening in local theaters.
one stands the test of time. Great family fare that avoids being overly preachy. (76 min.) m
INVISIBLE
SLO Mothers for Peace hosts a screening of the documentary Silent Fallout, screening on Aug. 12, at Unitarian Universalists San Luis Obispo.
SAVE THE FOREST! Crysta, a curious fairy, goes looking for humans and gets more than she bargained for, in FernGully: The Last Rainforest, screening on Aug. 10 and 11, in the Palm Theatre.
building up a regular clientele.”
The lounge’s late hours, cozy setting, and unique menu of both sweet and savory goodies have helped push its appeal beyond attracting overnight guests of the hotel.
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
There are few nests in downtown Solvang where night owls can flock for craft cocktails after 9 p.m., and even fewer where pairing options include fresh, gooey skilletbaked chocolate chip cookies.
The V Lounge—located inside Solvang’s Vinland Hotel—checks both boxes, along with a third that helps sate the late-night munchies for cookie cravers who prefer to stay in, Interim General Manager Maria Herrera explained.
“We actually do pretty good selling these through DoorDash as well,” said Herrera, a longtime employee
at the hotel who witnessed the lounge’s evolution from a continental breakfast hall to a full-fledged bar and late-night kitchen.
With a penchant for key lime pie martinis, another key player in V Lounge’s success works behind the bar and curates its playful selection of craft cocktails. Mixologist Richard Sly joined V Lounge’s staff about three years ago, when the bar first opened its doors at the Vinland Hotel.
“A lot of locals don’t even notice it’s in here, and a lot of people don’t go to a hotel to go out to a bar,” Sly said. “But, slowly but surely, we’ve been
Herrera said that of the bar’s two happy hour periods (4 to 6 p.m. and 9 to 11 p.m. daily, except Tuesdays and Wednesdays), the latter time slot brings in the most patrons. Some are guests returning to their rooms in want of a nightcap, while others hear buzz about the bar through word of mouth or social media, the manager said.
Among Sly’s signature cocktails, Herrera’s personal favorite is the Santa Rita, now a regular menu fixture that Sly created as a seasonal special. Its name is a nod to one of the Central Coast’s most popular AVAs and a certain holiday mascot.
“I made that up for Christmas a couple years ago,” said Sly, who’s held various bartending jobs since the mid 1980s. “Basically, it’s a cranberry lime margarita, but it’s got a Champagne float on top of it.”
When it comes to ideal pairings at V Lounge, Herrera’s go-to is a Santa
PHOTO
NOW SEATING: The V Lounge in downtown Solvang isn’t limited to serving
and grub to overnight guests of the Vinland Hotel, where it’s located, and offers ample indoor and outdoor patio seating that overlooks the hotel’s pool.
PHOTO BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL
MOVERS, SHAKERS, STIRRERS: The key lime pie martini (left) and jalapeño orange margarita (right) are among mixologist Richard Sly’s crafted cocktails at the V Lounge in Solvang.
PHOTO
e-waste
ELECTRONIC WASTE DISPOSA L
n An estimated 70 percent of heavy metals in landfills comes from discarded electronic items, also known as e-waste. These items also contain toxic materials. Below is an abbreviated list:
• Cell Phones
• Computer Monitors
• Fax Machines • Microwaves • Modems and Routers
Printers
Televisions
VCRs and DVD Players
Bring up to five e-waste items to the Santa Maria Regional Landfill (2065 E. Main St.) to be recycled or properly disposed of for free! Large quantities? Call for details.
For more information and hours, visit www.cityofsantamaria.org/utilities or call (805) 925-0951 ext. 7270.
EXPERIENCE:
• Experience in business,
•
•
• The ability to be social and enjoy talking with people
and
• The ability to learn how to develop solutions to marketing problems
• A strong work ethic
• Superior customer service skills
• College degree
•
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Rita with the venue’s caramelized sprouts, while Sly’s is a key lime pie martini—vodka, rum, lime juice, pineapple juice, and coconut cream— with the Danish pork meatballs, plated with gravy and a toasted baguette.
Sarah Hermosillo, one of the Vinland Hotel’s front desk agents, is also partial to the key lime pie martini, but prefers pairing it with the V Lounge’s smoked salmon flatbread, assembled with garlic naan, creme fraiche, cucumber, dill, capers, pickled red onion, and tomato.
“Usually I’m ordering food here on the clock, so I can’t drink,” Hermosillo clarified with a laugh.
Despite the lounge’s wide variety of cocktails on its menu, Sly said the bar’s most popular drink isn’t listed there. At the bottom of the signature cocktail section, there’s a note that reads: “Ask your bartender about our specials of the day!”
If you do, Sly will often recommend the unlisted jalapeño orange margarita.
“It’s my biggest selling drink out of all of our drinks,” said Sly, who explained that it’s a special rather than a menu staple because its availability depends on how much of the lounge’s high-end orange juice is on stock.
“It allows me to go through this [before its shelf life ends],” Sly said with an unpasteurized juice bottle in hand. “Otherwise I couldn’t justify paying what I do for the orange juice.”
The fans of the not-sosecret margarita aren’t
limited to hard-core spice lovers, added the mixologist, who uses a jalapeño-infused tequila that he infuses in house.
“I roast the jalapeños first. That takes some of the bitterness and heat out,” Sly said. “It’s not overpowering.” m
Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood recommends pairing the jalapeño orange margarita with V Lounge’s oven-roasted shell-on shrimp. Send comments to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com
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