SUN Last Minute Holiday Gift Guide 2022

• Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that $240 million is available from the Encampment Resolution Fund grant program to close down encampments and get people into housing and shelter, according to a Dec. 1 statement from the governor’s office. This move is part of the $700 million, two-year program to assist projects serving people living in encampments. “California is leading the way on homelessness solutions,” Newsom said in the statement. “We have made unprecedented progress since 2019, building over 12,000 new homeless housing units through Homekey, and sheltering more than 60,000 people through Project Roomkey. Today, $240 million is up for grabs to make our streets cleaner and safer, and to clean up encampments and get people into housing and shelter.” Over the past two years, the state has awarded $97.5 million in encampment resolution grants to close encampments and get people into housing and shelter, serving more than 2,800 people experiencing unsheltered homelessness in 26 cities and counties statewide. Now, cities, counties, and Continuums of Care can submit applications to fund projects that take a person-centered approach to providing housing and services to people experiencing unsheltered homelessness in encampments. Applicants are required to include a detailed service delivery plan that demonstrates a clear pathway to housing for individuals residing in encampments, while addressing their immediate health and safety needs.

• The Association for Commuter Transportation recognized Peter Williamson —who is a part of the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) Traffic Solutions division—as the 2022, 40 under 40 award recipient at an annual event in Atlanta, Georgia, according to a Nov. 22 statement from SBCAG. “This is a tremendous honor for Peter and for our organization,” Marjie Kirn, the executive director of SBCAG, said in a statement. “Peter’s innovative work in developing commuter programs throughout his career brings motivating energy to SBCAG’s Traffic Solutions division. A champion for commuter programs and initiatives, Peter is committed to making it easier for employers and employees in Santa Barbara County to reimagine their commute, whether that is remote work, walking, biking, or taking a bus and various incentives offered.” Williamson was recognized among a group of transportation demand management professionals and leaders, including private sector employers, city and state governments, service providers, consultants, and nonprofits who are committed to solving the transportation and mobility challenges facing their communities and organizations. Williamson joined SBCAG in April 2022 as a program coordinator within SBCAG’s Traffic Solutions division, which works to connect people and destinations by offering programs and incentives that help commuters travel by public transit, biking, carpooling, or telecommuting.

• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) celebrated the passage of the Marriage Equality Act, a bill that requires the federal government to recognize a marriage between two individuals if it was valid in the state where it was performed, according to a Nov. 29 statement from the senator’s office. This legislation guarantees that valid marriages between two individuals are given full faith and credit, regardless of the couple’s sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin. “Today, the Senate took a bold step to affirm the lives of millions of LGBTQ people and interracial couples across our country. By passing the Respect for Marriage Act, we sent a clear message to all LGBTQ Americans that we see them and recognize that they are worthy of equal treatment under law regardless of who they are, who they love, and who they choose to marry,” Padilla said in the statement. “This was a significant day in the story of American progress. But the continued threats to our most fundamental rights in the wake of the Dobbs decision that necessitated today’s vote make one thing clear: We still have work to do to achieve full equality. I will continue working to build on our efforts today until we ensure that every American is treated equally under the law, free from discrimination.” Earlier this year, Padilla introduced the LGBTQ Business Equal Credit Enforcement and Investment Act, legislation that would protect the 1.4 million LGBTQ-owned businesses in the nation from lending discrimination to ensure equal access to economic opportunities. Padilla also joined Senate Democrats in introducing a resolution recognizing June as LGBTQ Pride Month to highlight the work of the LGBTQ community in fighting to achieve full equality, including for marriage. m

County supervisors ease child care facility requirements

New child care operators will have an easier time beginning their programs as the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed amendments to revise permit requirements and standards for facilities.

“This will afford operators of day care centers greater flexibility and options for running day care centers,” a staff report said.

Now, small day care centers with 50 or fewer children can apply for a land-use permit—an easierto-obtain and more cost effective permit—instead of the complicated conditional use permit, the report stated. Family day care centers serving 14 or fewer children can operate in any residential area as long as they follow state health and safety guidelines, and schools, churches, and community centers can also operate child care facilities with fewer restrictions.

Easing requirements will help day care operators open their doors more quickly and expand their reach, 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann said at the Nov. 29 meeting.

“Child care is a business that operates at the margin, and we only have half as many child care spaces we need for kids under 5,” Hartmann said.

“This is an effort to understand and recognize this as an economic issue for our workforce.”

Currently, Santa Barbara County has 9,767 licensed day care spots for infants and toddlers, but according to the Santa Barbara Child Care Planning Council, more than 16,700 children under 2 live in the county. Supervisors recently allocated $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to help address the pandemic’s impact on child care.

Child care consultant Eileen Monahan told the Sun that the ordinance’s changes and investments will result in more open facilities, but local leadership should keep the momentum going.

“I think we have a real opportunity in that the light is shining on child care; federal, state, and local policy makers are interested. Employers are seeing child care in a different light because parents are expressing how difficult it is to get to work,” Monahan said.

Monahan suggested the county create incentives like density bonuses where developers can take up more land if they include child care within their plan, or they could fast track anything that has child care in it.

“If you add child care to a housing development or school or a business park, it’s a much easier process than a child care operator trying to open a center all on their own,” she said.

Local leaders could also add child care to housing elements, prioritize child care in the next budget cycles, and keep an eye out for state or federal grants, Monahan added.

“Once you build it, it does have to be maintained, but it’s a child care facility for the long haul. If the operator changes, it will still be a child care center,” she said. “The idea is that it’s an investment for the community and it will stay a child care facility for years.”

—Taylor O’Connor

Buellton reevaluates In-N-Out

Traffic concerns are slowing down a fast food chain’s efforts to bring a new drive-through restaurant to Buellton.

On Dec. 15, the Buellton Planning Commission will decide whether to grant the In-N-Out Burger corporation a conditional use permit to commandeer the site of the vacant Parks Plaza Theatre on McMurray Road. The Planning Commission originally aimed to clear the item on Nov. 17, but couldn’t reach a consensus.

During the Nov. 17 meeting, staff presented findings for the Planning Commission to deny In-N-Out’s application, as staff determined that the streets surrounding the site cannot “accommodate the traffic and circulation impacts of the project.”

“It comes down to traffic. … That’s the one thing that’s holding us back,” Planning Commissioner Aaron Liggett said during the meeting, before motioning to deny the application.

But a 2-3 vote prevented Liggett’s motion from passing.

As a possible solution to alleviate traffic concerns, Planning Commission Chair Patty Hammel recommended that the applicant consider a suggestion made during public comment, by Kathy Vreeland, executive director of the Buellton Chamber of Commerce.

Vreeland proposed that In-N-Out work with Caltrans on signage to direct drivers on Highway 101 to exit at Rufus T. Buell Drive, rather than take the Highway 246 exit, where staff anticipates cars to pile up if In-N-Out opens at the McMurray Road site.

“There are ways to mitigate that and help direct traffic to other exits,” Vreeland said in an email to the Sun

While discussion between the Planning Commission and city staff was mostly about traffic, it wasn’t the sole issue addressed. Some speakers during public comment shared the concern that an In-NOut would ruin Buellton’s “small town feel,” which Vreeland disagrees with.

“This approach can be harmful for a city. I think growing can be done sensibly while still maintaining a small-town feel,” Vreeland told the Sun

Vreeland hopes that Buellton’s city staff and In-N-Out will find a middle ground to move the project forward and is worried that a denial will negatively affect Buellton’s reputation with future business developers.

“Businesses tend to migrate together,” Vreeland said. “I think it is definitely possible to attract other businesses when a large, reputable company like InN-Out comes to town.”

—Caleb

District Supervisor Bob Nelson and 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino dissenting) to pass a Countywide community workforce agreement during a Dec. 2 special meeting.

Conversations for the labor agreement began in 2014, and in 2019, the supervisors directed staff to work with union representative Tri-Counties Building and Construction Trades Council to create a draft community workforce agreement (CWA) on public construction projects.

Staff proposed a five-year agreement for county public projects worth $10 million or more, and it will ensure local hiring, improve trades training, provide apprenticeship opportunities, help resolve disputes, and help the projects be delivered on time, the board letter said.

Within the agreement, nonunion contractors are also required to hire a certain number of union employees, which brought concerns of hiring equality that nonunion organization representatives discussed during public comment.

“This is a carefully collaborated agreement, and the community workforce agreement is a strategy to promote local hire,” 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann said. “I’m confident with an annual review we will have a chance to look at this, [and] with a five-year lifetime on this, we can reconsider. I think it will be a great success.”

As a midsize county, Santa Barbara often goes out of county for complex projects, and this will help keep hiring within the community, Hartmann said.

Pamela Shaw, the Association of Builders and Contractors’ Engagement Officer, said that the agreement will hurt a majority of the county’s skilled nonunion professionals and they’ll be “shut out from their own backyard.”

“For years, you’ve operated with a construction bidding policy that ensures a fair playing field, regardless of labor affiliation, and delivered the quality workmanship our county could count on,” Shaw said. “Please do not limit the opportunities for local skilled and trained construction professionals who want to build your communities. Please do not pass this CWA.”

More than 80 percent of local contractors within the tri-counties area (spanning from Ventura to SLO County) are nonunion, and this agreement could reduce the number of bidders for future projects, making construction costs more expensive. Although the board letter said that the agreement mitigates the concern, 5th District Supervisor Lavagnino agreed with Shaw.

He said the county already has outstanding work quality and it doesn’t differentiate between union and nonunion workers, and he doesn’t see the need to change this now when limiting the competition could increase costs for taxpayers.

“It may help strife on large projects, but I’m not convinced it will outweigh the possible liabilities we’re going to have. I don’t have any compelling reasons to change the playing field,” Lavagnino said. “I’m not going to be able to support it, but I think both sides play an invaluable role in our community, and I hope that it will allow us to do business the way we’re doing it now.”

Fourth District Supervisor Nelson said he also wouldn’t be comfortable supporting a five-year agreement because he’s not sure local labor will come from the CWA.

Wiseblood

County OKs first community workforce agreement

In an effort to hire more community members for large construction projects and set terms and conditions for project owners, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 (with 4th

Although there are unprecedented challenges the county could face, the agreement could be a learning experience and help the county move forward, 2nd District Supervisor Gregg Hart countered.

“The time is right for us to take this action. We have been considering this policy since 2014 and I think we should all be proud of the work that’s gone on,” the supervisor said at his last meeting before becoming a state Assembly member. “I’m looking forward with open eyes and a spirit of optimism.”

m —Taylor O’Connor

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

If you’re looking for a gift for a coworker who loves to host a charcuterie night, a friend who frequents wine tastings, or a loved one who enjoys a simple glass of wine now and again, the Santa Maria and Santa Ynez valleys hold an abundance of delicious options.

Several wineries in the area are now offering food and bottle gift baskets, membership deals, and limited-edition wines as the holiday season approaches. Check out these local wineries and explore their gift ideas and deals; prices on items vary.

Find more Northern Santa Barbara County wineries at santamariavalley.com.

Buttonwood Farm Winery

and Vineyard

This Solvang-based winery and farm is offering a limited-edition sparkling rosé—a great addition to any holiday table or gift basket. It pairs well with a soup or salad course as well as fish and meat, winery employees told the Sun in an email.

Along with the rosé and a variety of other wines, Buttonwood is offering gift boxes that include wine, candles, Buttonwood-branded glasses, jams, spices, and shrubs.

Boxes can be customized to fit any preference and are available in the tasting room or over the phone, where an employee will customize the box’s contents and ship it out. Buttonwood also offers gift cards for last-minute gifts or for those who have a tough time choosing from the winery’s wide variety of options.

1500 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang; (805) 688-3032; buttonwoodwinery.com.

Kings Carey Wines

These wines can be ordered from menus in restaurants across Santa Barbara County, but they’re harder to find in retail shops because Kings Carey Wines is a smaller operation. Right now, the winery is offering three different wines: a white, a rosé, and a red during the holiday season.

The semillon is a crisp, fresh wine that offers a hint of sweetness. Grapes are harvested from Happy Canyon Vineyard in Santa Barbara and picked early for a bit of acidity and a lemon zest, winemaker James Sparks told the Sun. It’s then fermented in old barrels for five months before bottling. The rosé is a grenache blend from Spear Vineyards in Lompoc that’s fermented in old oak barrels for seven months, giving the wine more texture and a bright fruitiness to the palate.

King’s Carey’s 2019 grenache blend, also from Spear Vineyards, was aged in barrels for 29 months, which gives the wine has a savory taste with hints of rose, raspberry, and chocolate, Sparks said.

These limited-edition wines feature eccentric labels made by Philadelphia artist Hawk Crawl, distinctive and unique enough to transform the bottles into home decor after the wine is consumed, he said. Kings Carey also offers club packages that cover two shipments of two to three bottles a year. Use code SMSUN to get free shipping on a three-pack of wines.

1225 W. Laurel Ave., Lompoc; (805) 680-7006; kingscarey.com.

Vega Vineyard and Farm

Vega Vineyard and Farm’s been serving the Central Coast quality wines since 1853, and this holiday season, the winery is offering three gift packages.

The Bianco and Olga Olive Oil Gift Pack features its 2021 Bianco white wine blend of albariño, vermentino, and marsanne. With hints of yellow peach and almonds on the palate, it and pairs well with chicken, according to the winery’s website. Going alongside this bottle is a 500 ml bottle of Olga’s Greek extra virgin olive oil, made from olives grown in the rocky hills of Mani, Greece. Olives are hand picked and pressed on the same day to maintain a low acidity level and a rich, fruity flavor.

The Barbera and Albariño Gift Pack features two European wines covering a wide spectrum of flavors. Vega Vineyard’s 2021 albariño is a Spanish-style wine with lemon, pear, and citrus qualities. It pairs well with white fish and meats as well as leafy green herbs. The 2021 barbera—a grape variety that originates from Northwestern Italy—has dark plum and black cherry aromas, and gives hints of plum and blood orange on the palate. It pairs well with tomato sauce and braised or grilled meat, the website said.

Vega’s third gift pact features bottles of pinot grigio, dolcetto and barbera, three popular Italian wines. The 2021 pinot grigio is a crisp and cool wine with hints of citrus that pairs well with fresh salads and light pasta dishes. The 2021 dolcetto is a dry wine with hints of raspberry that pairs well with salmon, tuna, pasta, and pizza.

9496 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton; (805) 688-2415; vegavineyardandfarm.com. m

Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor loves pairing perfect gifts with local wine. She can be reached at toconnor@santamariasun.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KINGS CAREY WINES

LOCAL AND UNIQUE: Lompoc-based Kings Karey Wines is featuring a red, white, and rosé this holiday season and has unique labels designed by Philadelphia artist Hawk Crawl.

GIFT BOXES: Along with a featured sparkling rosé, Buttonwood is making customizable gift packages with its farm-grown food to give to loved ones this holiday season.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VEGA VINEYARD AND FARM

FOR LOVED ONES: Vega Vineyard and Farm is offering three different holiday packages highlighting several of its wines, including its 2021 Bianco White Wine Blend of albariño, vermentino, and marsanne that comes with a bottle of Olga Greek extra virgin olive oil.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BUTTONWOOD

a memory

BY GLEN STARKEY

Iguess a necktie or some perfume or a scarf is OK, but if you need a last-minute gift and you want it to stand out, give an activity that can grow into a memory—a gift that keeps on giving long after the tie is out of style, the perfume has run dry, or that scarf was inadvertently left in a café. The Central Coast has all kinds of things you can give that may get someone out of their comfort zone to try something new.

Luminous landscapes

The Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden is lighting up its grounds with winter wonder for its inaugural Enchanted Garden Holiday Lights Festival. Evening visitors can wander a maze of lights, take pictures with Santa, delight in falling snow, and enjoy treats and libations from various food and beverage vendors, all on the Botanic Garden’s grounds at the west end of River View Park in Buellton. The festivities run Dec. 9 through 11 and 16 through 18 between 5:30 and 8:30 p.m., and tickets cost $25 for adults and children age 13 and over and $10 for ages 12 and under, and admission is free for children under 2.

The San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, located in El Chorro Regional Park, is hosting Nature Nights through Sunday, Jan. 8 (Thursday through Sunday nights; 5 to 8 p.m.; $19.75 plus fees for adults, $14.75 plus fees for children 12 and under, toddlers 2 and under free at my805tix.com).

The immersive outdoor holiday light and art display features large format light projections by Bryn Forbes, illuminated sculptures by Michael Reddell, and artistic lighting of garden areas by Kody Cava through an 8-acre portion of the 150-acre garden.

If you’re in North SLO County, check out Paso Robles’ Light at Sensorio.

Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, 151 Sycamore Drive, Buellton; santaynezvalleybotanicgardent.org; (805) 245-5603.

SLO Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Road, San Luis Obispo; slobg.org; (805) 541-1400. Sensorio, 4380 Highway 46, Paso Robles; sensoriopaso.com; (805) 226-4287.

Tour through history

“Stepping into the Dana Adobe and taking a guided tour not only brings history to life but cultivates the visitor to feel that the walls and objects you are seeing are more than just an old house,” DANA Executive Director Alexis Carreno explained.

The Dana Adobe and Cultural Center, located in Nipomo, is open for walk-ins every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (subject to holidays and private events), with an admission of $8 per person and $3 for kids 6 to 17. Weekday tours can be booked at various rates depending on the number of people.

Originally built from 1839 to 1850 on a 37,888-acre Mexican Land Grant bestowed upon Boston ship’s captain William Goodwin Dana in 1837, the home’s 13 rooms have been restored to look as they did in 1850. The home hosted important historical figures such as Henry Tefft and John C. Fremont. It was also an exchange point on California’s first official mail route between LA and Monterey.

“The tour guides encompass the reality of living on the vast rancho in the height of the 1850s, where travelers would stop and share a cup of tea or coffee and homemade tortillas,” Carreno said. “Where you could experience seeing a vast number of workshops actively making products for both the visitor, families, and tradesmen nearby. A thriving and energetic stop full of activity and a true sense of a home.”

671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo; danaadobe.org; dana@danadobe.org; (805) 929-5679. m

New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey is experiencing all the Central Coast has to offer. Reach him at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

LIGHT UP THEIR LIVES: The San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden presents Nature Nights, and immersive outdoor holiday light and art display, open Thursdays to Sundays from 5 to 8 p.m. through Jan. 8.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DANA ADOBE AND CULTURAL CENTER

SEND ’EM BACK IN TIME: Book your loved ones a private guided tour of the historical Dana Adobe in Nipomo, where a docent will explain life in 1850.

Keeping warm

The county Public Defender’s Office needs sleeping bags, warm clothes for its annual Sleeping Bag Drive

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

Hypothermia kills about 700 people experiencing homelessness in the United States annually, according to the National Health Care for the Homeless Council.

their way into permanent housing,” Bortoff said.

After collecting items, the Santa Barbara and Santa Maria office locations will host a distribution event from noon to 2 p.m. on Dec. 15 where individuals can walk through stations organized by size and item and collect whatever they may need, she said.

Normally, sleeping bags go the quickest, but the Public Defender’s Office will hang on to any leftover items to hand them out throughout the year. Bortoff added that her team may work with their community partners to distribute to other service agencies.

Donate

This year, Santa Barbara County counted more than 1,900 people who were homeless during its Pointin-Time Count. Although specific data about homeless, weather-related mortalities couldn’t be verified, Erica Bottorff—a holistic defense advocate at the county Public Defender’s Office—said homeless community members have died in previous years due to the dropping temperatures.

Visit givebox.com/523226 to make a tax-deductible donation to the drive, which will help purchase new sleeping bags and warm clothes during the county Public Defender’s Office’s annual drive.

“It’s really the community giving back to our unhoused community members,” Bortoff said. “It’s really important for community members to be involved in this effort. We can’t solve this problem with only outreach workers; it’s really going to need the [whole] community to be involved to solve this issue.”

“Many of our clients at the Public Defender’s Office are experiencing homelessness, and it’s not uncommon for our clients or community members to come into our office requesting items to stay warm,” Bottorff said. “We want to prevent any deaths this winter.”

To help meet this need, the Public Defender’s Office launched its fourth annual Sleeping Bag Drive: a donation event to collect sleeping bags for clients who may be experiencing homelessness. The office kicked off its fourth annual drive to collect 250 sleeping bags and will accept other items like sweaters, coats, hats, thermal underwear, socks, and scarves through Dec. 12 at either the Santa Barbara or Santa Maria office locations.

“I think when we first started this, we [noticed] that the shelters didn’t have enough capacity to host everyone,” Bortoff said. “Those people staying outside were asking for items to keep warm at night.”

The office’s Community Defender Division is a group of social workers, outreach workers, case workers, and housing specialists who work with individuals experiencing homelessness, she said. Oftentimes, people would come in and ask for sleeping bags along with obtaining other services.

“Our office, in addition to many other outreach teams, are working with unsheltered people to obtain permanent housing, but this process takes time. In the meantime we want to make sure everyone stays warm and safe so they can remain engaged with their outreach workers and work

The Santa Maria Public Defender’s Office is located at 312 East Cook St. and will be accepting donations during regular business hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Direct further questions to (805) 346-7500.

Highlight

• The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County received 2,500 pairs of brand new athletic shoes donated by Pierce Footwear—an Oregon-based company that turns waste into foam for shoes. The food bank’s Santa Maria warehouse—located at 490 W. Foster Road—distributed shoes to several organizations, including the Santa Ynez Valley Community Outreach (formerly Buellton Senior Center), Band of Brothers, Santa Maria Elks, American Veterans United, and the Cloverlane Foundation, to give free shoes to local veterans.

• The Fund for Santa Barbara awarded Mixteco Indígena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) $10,000 to support its labor justice, youth development, and language access programs in Santa Barbara County. The Fund will allocate a total of $103,000 to local nonprofit organizations in Santa Barbara County as part of its annual fall general grant cycle. As a nontraditional community foundation, the Fund has been supporting organizations and groups working for progressive social change in Santa Barbara County since 1980. In 2019, the Fund gave a grant to MICOP to further its mission to support, organize, and empower Indigenous migrant communities. m

Writer Taylor O’Connor wrote this week’s Spotlight. Reach her at toconnor@santamariasun.com.

Staff

BASIC NECESSITIES: After collecting donations from community members, the Santa Barbara County Public Defender’s Office will hand out sleeping bags and warm clothes during its distribution event on Dec. 15.

Online Poll

What do you think about a farmworker resource center in Santa Barbara County?

38% We don’t need it. There are plenty of resources readily available.

33% It’s been needed in the county for a long time and should have been made earlier.

29% It’s a great way to create a network of collaboration and reach people in need.

0% We don’t have the funding now, but we should come up with ideas in the meantime.

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

A red

to rational discourse, and his strong faith and love for our country. Biden is plodding, but he is persistent: That’s produced a series of legislative triumphs that already earn him a place among the most successful first-term records of any American president.

Joe Biden that there is for Barack Obama and for the Clintons. There’s not a ‘hate Biden’ vote that’s out there.”

21 Votes

BY JOHN ASHBAUGH

On Nov. 8, voters delivered their verdict on the first two years of the Biden administration.

Conventional wisdom pundits had predicted a “red tsunami”: The GOP only needed to flip a net of five seats to seize the majority in the House, and one seat in the Senate. Most observers had projected that they would take at least 30 House seats and easily capture the Senate. Some even suggested that Republicans would surpass their historic gain of 63 seats during the 2010 midterm of Barack Obama.

By now it’s obvious that the “red wave” turned out to be a red mirage : Republicans have so far won a net of only seven House seats, barely a majority.

By far, most candidates endorsed by the SLO County Democratic Party won their races, including the 30th Assembly District where Dawn Addis of Morro Bay received more than 60 percent of the vote. It’ll be the first time since 1968 that San Luis Obispo will be represented by a Democrat.

How is it, then, that Democrats pulled off this virtual draw with the GOP against the headwinds of high inflation and low approval ratings for President Biden? Biden cast this election not as a referendum on his presidency, but a choice between democracy and violent extremism.

Democrats focused on the issues of abortion rights, economic fairness and poverty, climate change, and sustainable solutions to our crisis of housing affordability.

Even while they may not yet give Biden credit for his achievements, most appreciate his low-key style, his softspoken civility and devotion

In contrast, the GOP suffers from a complete lack of policy ideas that could serve to attract moderate voters, especially those who are younger, female, or minorities. In fact, Republicans seem to be more interested in offending these constituencies: At every turn, they fight President Biden’s modest proposal for debt relief for college students, thereby condemning millions of young households to decades of poverty. Their extremist Supreme Court majority has stripped women of reproductive rights guaranteed by a half-century of constitutional interpretation. This Republican Party has been wholly captured by the racist, anti-immigrant rhetoric of Donald Trump, who dines with antiSemitic white supremacists like Nick Fuentes.

Democrats have an excellent chance at retaining the White House and winning back the House in 2024: They have positioned the nation’s economy for continued steady growth with aggressive COVID-19 relief packages and the bipartisan infrastructure bill. This administration achieved a modest but significant breakthrough on reducing gun violence, closing the infamous “gun show loophole,” and Biden is calling for an assault weapons ban in the wake of the tragic epidemic of mass shootings.

In foreign affairs, what a difference two years have made: Nobody seriously disputes our nation’s leadership anymore. The U.S. and our allies are expanding NATO instead of threatening it; we’re challenging Russia in Ukraine; and we are finally (though belatedly) tackling climate change in concert with developing nations.

It may be too soon to suggest that the 2024 elections represent a “return to sanity.” There’s still entirely too much toxicity in our national discourse. On the day after the election, Fox News pundit Jesse Watters snidely remarked, “There’s just not the hatred for

It’s ironic that he should believe this even as “Let’s Go Brandon” slogans decorate every GOP office in the land—the not-so-subtle euphemism for the “F**k Joe Biden” chant heard at NASCAR events. For Jesse Watters and his ilk, the problem is clearly that not enough voters are “feeling the hate,” in spite of their incendiary efforts to stir up such hostility.

Let’s all turn it down a notch. Let’s recall those times when our nation was unified behind a common cause.

On Nov. 9, the night after the election, I stayed up past 1 a.m. so that I could witness the launch of the last Atlas V rocket from Vandenberg. It was magnificent, easily visible from my bedroom as it soared into a polar orbit in a clear sky. Its weather observation satellites are already monitoring our entire planet twice each day.

That project, like all of our nation’s infrastructure, required the collaboration of teams of American scientists and engineering professionals, all of whom set aside their political differences to perform their assigned roles. There are both Republicans and Democrats on these teams. With the new Artemis program, we’ll soon be sending women and minorities to revisit the moon.

Our space program has always manifested the nation’s motto, “e pluribus unum” (out of many, one). Let’s hope that the split-decision of the nation’s voters in the midterm elections will mark a new era of collaboration, a new resolve that despite the bitter hostility of our troubled years in the Trump era, we’re ready to choose hope over hate, vision over violence, and—finally—progress over polarization. m

John Ashbaugh has been engaged in local politics since arriving on the Central Coast in 1977. Write a response for publication by emailing letters@ santamariasun.com.

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your 250-word letter to Sun Letters, 2450 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria, CA 93455. You can also fax it (1-805546-8641) or e-mail it (letters@santamariasun.com). All letters must include a name, address, and phone number for verification purposes; may be edited for space or clarity; and will be posted to santamariasun.com.

Americans with Disabilities Act is a godsend

God bless those who brought the ADA to the forefront and passed this law.

I did not know that mental disabilities were also is part of the disabilities act. Thank you for your story (“Neglected disabilities,” Nov. 24). I am one who has suffered mental disability for 63 years. It is very difficult with doctors and businesses that don’t recognize the mental disability. This needs to change, especially with seeing doctors. And the fact that everything is digitally done.

I’m sorry you had to seek other doctors for access. I get forms in the mail, applications for personal information. At times, assistance is available but other times not. So I do what I can to the best that I know how. And I know that when that happens the information I give is incorrect— doesn’t seem right. I feel sad; it doesn’t seem fair.

Well, thank you for your article, and blessings to you and loved ones and all people.

Betty Hines Lompoc

Happy Holidays

Gratitude Grows Here.

We never stop reaching higher for our patients and for our community.

When your loved one is in our care, we’re here to support you and your family.

The new Cottage Family Suites provide accommodations for out-of-town families caring for a loved one who is hospitalized. Cottage Family Suites are made possible by donations from the community. Thank you for ensuring we have the highest quality and compassionate care...and hospitality...right here at home.

Learn more at cottagehealth.org/reachinghigher

Policy over politics

Santa Barbara County 2nd District Supervisor

Gregg Hart took his leave from the governing body on which he’s served for the past few years, stepping into the halls of the state Legislature during the first week of December and making room for Laura Capps to take his seat on the dais.

She was sworn in on Dec. 6. It was peaceful, one could even say joyous.

Witnessing the over-the-top drama that took over the SLO County Board of Supervisors meeting on that same day, it’s hard to believe these governing bodies convened less than 100 miles from one another. Wedding venues came together to bash SLO County code enforcement for enforcing county code; election deniers came together to cry “fraud” at the top of their lungs; and outgoing 4th District Supervisor Lynn Compton used up more than an hour of meeting time to list off all of the actions she finds “egregious” when it comes to Oceano Advisory Council politics.

The anger is real in SLO County. Could these two counties, which are arguably so similar, be any more different when it comes to the way politics plays out?

As much of an issue as I have with county funding allocations and the lion’s share of resources heading into southern Santa Barbara County, I have to commend the Santa Barbara County supervisors for conducting themselves in such a professional, cordial manner. I mean, there are occasional outbursts from 1st District Supe Das Williams and small-scale bickering between the longstanding 3-2 split, but this county knows how

to get its work done.

Elected officials south of the Santa Maria River seem to grasp the fact that constituents need good public policy decisions and seem to believe that the greater good outweighs petty ideology and politics—no matter how many times Andy Caldwell attempts to use his indoor voice to screech at the board over things that he’s often wrong about. This is not the case in SLO County, where Caldwell’s partner in COLAB crime, Mike Brown, mutters at the board, upset about things like a $3,900 community project funds grant that was award to local National Public Radio affiliate KCBX, and traffic on Highway 101. Petty politics and ideology take up so much space at SLO County supervisors meetings that I often wonder when real governing takes place. These are your tax dollars at work.

You know where else tax dollars could be at work?

Buellton. That city could be rolling in tax revenue from businesses like In-N-Out and AM/PM, but projects seem to get hung up on the details and its small town vibe during the planning process. AM/PM’s “too much good stuff” might not be art deco enough for Buellton while In-N-Out’s notorious traffic might be too much for the city.

Speakers during a Nov. 17 meeting were very concerned that bringing an In-N-Out to town could ruin Buellton’s “small town feel.” I’ve been to In-N-Outs in Atascadero and Arroyo Grande and those places continue to be quite small.

Maybe In-N-Out is the gateway fast food chain, but I think Chic-fil-A is where the real problems begin. Ask Santa Barbara. m

The Canary is definitely not a cow. Send comments to canary@santamariasun.com.

SANTA CLAUS IS

COMING TO OLD TOWN

The Old Town Orcutt Christmas Parade is scheduled to take place on Saturday, Dec. 10, starting at noon, in Old Town Orcutt. The parade will feature a variety of floats, vehicles, live entertainment, and the event’s special guest, Santa Claus. Visit orcuttchristmasparade.org for more info on the event and the parade’s route that begins in Old Town Orcutt.

—Caleb Wiseblood

ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE

Dance Arts), 3546 Skyway Drive, Bldg. 1, suite A, Orcutt, 805-937-3738, orcuttcommunitytheater.com.

WILDLIFE

Through Dec. 10 clarkcenter.org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, 805-489-9444.

Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 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.

CLASSES

CINDERELLA Last seen at PCPA in 2015 and back by popular demand for the whole family, the Broadway adaption of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved musical. This fresh, contemporary take on the classic tale is full of new surprises, familiar friends, and Rodgers and Hammerstein’s unforgettable music. Through Dec. 23 $25-$59. 805-922-8313. pcpa.org/events/cinderella. PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria.

CRAFTWORKS: HOLIDAY BOOK ORNAMENTS

Turn ordinary book pages into fabulous artful ornaments. Learn to recycle older books into beautiful decorations to give or keep. All materials will be provided. Registration is required. Dec. 10, 10:30 a.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE

Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. ongoing Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-937-6753.

LOCAL AND FEATURED ARTIST EXHIBITS Valley Art Gallery, located in the SM Airport, exhibits local and featured artist work. New exhibits are mounted the first Tuesday of even-numbered months. Wide variety of art available for purchase. Through Dec. 31 Free admission (works available for sale). Santa Maria Airport, 3249 Terminal Dr., Santa Maria.

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. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

SMCT’S DIRECTORS CUT Jeffrey Staso, Santa Maria Civic Theatre regular, is playing the role of “Director” in this fun combination of theater games and TV game show. Dec. 10, 7-9 p.m. my805tix. com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SONNY SONATA A staged reading presented by OCT. Written by Dixie Arthur. Dec. 9, 8 p.m., Dec. 10, 8 p.m. and Dec. 11, 1:30 p.m. Orcutt Community Theater (Klein

UKULELE LESSONS For individuals 50 years and up, at no charge. Participants will learn to play chords, melodies, and familiar songs. Five baritone ukuleles are available to borrow, or class members may bring one of their own. Mondays, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. cityofsantamaria.org/register. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

VALLEY READS BOOK CLUB Second Saturday of every month, 2 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/city-government/departments/ library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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

39TH SOLVANG NATIVITY PAGEANT Solvang’s traditional Nativity production. Presented by Solvang Performing Arts. Dec. 10 solvangjulefest.org/. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.

DUNES: VISIONS OF SAND, LIGHT, AND

SHADOW Traverse the sand dunes with Central Coast photographer Bob Canepa in the Wildling Museum’s new Valley Oak Gallery exhibition. Receptions: Sept. 11 and Oct. 9. Through March 23, 2023, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, 805-688-1082, wildlingmuseum.org.

THE INAUGURAL ENCHANTED GARDEN HOLIDAY LIGHTS FESTIVAL

Stroll the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden through a maze of holiday lights. Through Dec. 18 santaynezvalleybotanicgarden.org. Santa Ynez Botanic Garden, 151 Sycamore Drive, Buellton.

From a group of common pigeons to an elusive cougar, Baker’s subjects make themselves at home in urban locales. Through March 6, 2023 Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, 805-688-1082, wildlingmuseum.org.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

CHRISTMAS LIGHT EXCHANGE PROGRAM Exchange your old Christmas lights for new, energy-saving LED lights. Participants enter a raffle for a chance to win LED Christmas decorations and other items. MondaysFridays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. through Jan. 27 cityoflompoc.com. Lompoc City Hall, 100 City Hall Dr., Lompoc.

LIVE STAND-UP COMEDY AT FLOWER CITY BALLROOM A night of hilarious stand-up comedy with professional touring comedians Clay Newman, Kiki Anderson, Bob Fernandez, Chad Denick, and host Justin Bournonville. Dec. 17, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY ARTWORK BY STEVE ANDREWS On display throughout November and December. Through Dec. 31 Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, 805-489-9444, clarkcenter.org.

HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA: A CHRISTMAS CAROL Visited by the ghosts of Past, Present, and Future, Ebenezer Scrooge must find it in his heart to change or face a bleak and lonely future. No show on Christmas day. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 7-10 p.m., Saturdays, 2-5 p.m. and Sundays, 6-9 p.m. through Dec. 18 $36$40. 805-489-2499. americanmelodrama.com. Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

MATILDA: THE MUSICAL The ensemble cast features strong performances by many well-known, local teen thespians, including London Raftery. Presented by AGHS.

MIXED MEDIA (ADULTS) Each week, attendees will combine two or more media in several pieces, while working with watercolor, acrylic, ink, pastels, charcoal as well as various printmaking techniques in the course of a month. Enjoy discovering new ways to work with traditional and nontraditional materials. Mondays, 1-3 p.m. $35. 805668-2125. lila.community/. LilA Creative Community, 1147 East Grand Ave. suite 101, Arroyo Grande.

MIXED MEDIA FOR AGES 5-6 AND 7-12 For ages 5-6 (Mondays) and 7-12 (Tuesdays). Mondays, Tuesdays, 3:15-4:15 p.m. 805-668-2125. lila.community/. LilA Creative Community, 1147 East Grand Ave. suite 101, Arroyo Grande.

MIXED MEDIA FOR AGES 5-7 Each week students will have the opportunity to explore and combine various mediums like pastels with tempera, watercolors and collage, or clay and wood and so much more. Mondays, 3:30-4:45 p.m. $25. 805-668-2125. lila.community/. LilA Creative Community, 1147 East Grand Ave. suite 101, Arroyo Grande.

MIXED MEDIA WORKSHOP (AGES 7-12) Come explore mixed media with an emphasis on the Elements of Art and the Principles of Design. Each week, students will have the opportunity to use various media. Tuesdays, 3:30-4:45 p.m. $25. 805-668-2125. lila.community/. LilA Creative Community, 1147 East Grand Ave. suite 101, Arroyo Grande.

OPEN STUDIO (AGES 7-12) Guests can explore a variety of media and techniques while focusing on their own subject matter. Whether they come with a project in mind, or find their way as they play, this class offers a chance for independent learning in a supportive environment. Thursdays, 3:45-4:45 p.m. $25. 805-6682125. lila.community/all-workshops/open-studio. LilA Creative Community, 1147 East Grand Ave. suite 101, Arroyo Grande.

OPEN STUDIO FOR ADULTS Guests can come in and decide what materials they would like to work with and create freely. Share your creative process with others and see how your work will flourish. Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m. and Wednesdays, 12:30-3:30 p.m. $40. 805-668-2125. Lila.community/. LilA Creative Community, 1147 East Grand Ave. suite 101, Arroyo Grande.

PLAY, EXPLORE, CREATE (AGES 5-7) Young artists will play at various stations, exploring games, and mixed media. There will be a new activity each week. Wonderful opportunities for drawing, painting, and sculpture. Tuesdays, 9-10 a.m. $25. 805-668-2125. lila.community/.

ON THE EDGE: HILARY BAKER New and recent acrylic paintings from Baker’s Predators series alongside a new series of animal portraits on birch wood.

FILE COURTESY PHOTO BY KATHRYN SCOTT

LilA Creative Community, 1147 East Grand Ave. suite 101, Arroyo Grande.

PLAY, EXPLORE, CREATE 1 (AGES 3 AND 4) Enjoy the opportunity to explore drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, and mixed media. Each week a new adventure awaits. Thursdays, 2-3 p.m. and Fridays, 9-10 a.m. $25. 805-668-2125. lila.community/. LilA Creative Community, 1147 East Grand Ave. suite 101, Arroyo Grande.

STORYTELLERS FLEX Performing Arts is thrilled to present Storytellers, a heartfelt family adventure brought to life through ballet, modern, contemporary, and theater jazz dance. Described as a magical, family-friendly holiday experience. Dec. 10, 6-8 p.m. and Dec. 11, 3-5 p.m. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/storytellers/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

WINTER FESTIVAL MARKET A pop-up boutique sale. Shop from more than 25 local, unique vendors, artists, and crafters scattered throughout the Garden. Enjoy hot chocolate while you shop and receive a door prize raffle ticket with any purchase from any vendor. Dec. 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and Dec. 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. 805-2641580. Birchwood Garden Barn & Home, 323 West Tefft Street, Nipomo.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

THE GREATEST OF EASE BOOK EVENT A book signing with circus performers at San Luis Obispo Library. Dec. 8, 3-5 p.m. Free. thegreatestofease.com. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-781-5991.

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL

GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/ gallery-artists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

A CHRISTMAS STORY The holiday classic about young Ralphie Parker and his quest for a genuine Red Ryder BB Gun. Saturdays, Sundays, 2 p.m., WednesdaysSaturdays, 7 p.m. and Dec. 18, 2 p.m. through Dec. 17 $20-$28. 805-786-2440. slorep.org/shows/a-christmasstory-2022/. San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

CIVIC BALLET OF SLO: THE NUTCRACKER Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo is presenting this holiday classic,

with a full live orchestra and San Luis Obispo County’s finest dancers. Dec. 9, 7-9:15 p.m., Dec. 10, 2-4:15 & 7-9:15 p.m. and Dec. 11, 2-4:15 p.m. $24-$72. 805-7564849. pacslo.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

HILDA KILPATRICK-FREYRE: ART SHOW Hilda is influenced by California paintings, as well as impressionists. Her work is vibrant and she paints local nature scenes. Through Feb. 14, 2023 805-545-5401. bigskycafe.com. Big Sky Cafe, 1121 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo.

HOLIDAY POTTERY SALE Anam Cre Pottery is hosting a handmade gift sale for the holidays. Explore ceramic gifts and find the perfect unique item. Includes mugs, dishware, vases, ornaments, trinkets, and more. Dec. 10, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Free. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

THE MONDAY CLUBHOUSE CONSERVANCY FINE ARTS AWARDS APPLICATIONS Open to high

school juniors and seniors. Categories: classical music, jazz music, and visual art. Submit online application. Finalists in all categories compete in a live competition at The Monday Club on Feb. 26. Through Jan. 30, 2023 Free. 805-242-1076. themondayclubslo.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SLO GALLERY CHRISTMAS SHOW Includes a variety of works by local artists, along with additional visual treats to delight and surprise you. There will be seasonal refreshments, music, and artistic conversation to enjoy. Dec. 10, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. 805-926-5050. slogallery.com. SLO Gallery, 1019 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo.

SLO NIGHTWRITERS: A COMMUNITY OF WRITERS SLO NightWriters supports local writers with monthly presentations, critique groups, contests, and other events. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. 805-703-3132. slonightwriters.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Ballet Theatre

SLO presents this heartwarming original ballet. Come see each of the 12 days come alive on stage through dance. Dec. 16, 7-9 p.m., Dec. 17, 7-9 p.m. and Dec. 18, 2-4 p.m. $28-$48. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, 805-756-7113.

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. galacc.org/ events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS 30 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED IN SANTA MARIA/ ORCUTT Community Partners in Caring is seeking volunteers to help support dependent older adults and seniors. ongoing partnersincaring.org. Santa Maria, Citywide, Santa Maria.

ALTRUSA’S FESTIVAL OF TREES 2022 Located on the second floor of the mall. Funds raised during the festival of trees are given back to the community in forms of grants and scholarships. Through Dec. 10 Santa Maria Town Center, 142 Town Center East, Santa Maria.

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY Visitors embark on a magical holiday light drive-through experience at the Elks Event Center with displays presented by local businesses and families. Through Dec. 24 $55. 805-925-4125. elksrec.com. Elks Event Center, 4040 Highway 101, Santa Maria.

FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. 805-937-9750. 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.

MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TREES FUNDRAISER Presented by Altrusa International of Golden Valley. Proceeds benefit student scholarships, teacher grants, community grants, and other programs. Through Dec. 10 Santa Maria Kia, 2175 Bradley Ave., Santa Maria.

THE OLD TOWN ORCUTT CHRISTMAS PARADE A holiday favorite since 1961. Started by the volunteer fire department, the parade remains a small town afternoon event. Dec. 10, noon orcuttchristmasparade.org. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.

ORCUTT MINERAL SOCIETY Second Tuesday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, 805-937-9750.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY RAILWAY HISTORICAL

MUSEUM TOURS The collection includes late 1800’s-early 1900’s Engine used by the Betteravia Union Sugar Company, a 1930’s Sacramento Northern box car, and more. Second Saturday of every month, 12-4 p.m. smvrhm.com. Santa Maria Transit Center, Miller and Boone Streets, Santa Maria.

SMVGS MEETING Visitors welcome. Contact smvgs. org for program and location info. Third Thursday of every month, 2:15-4 p.m. smvgs.org. Santa Maria Valley Genealogical Society, 908 Sierra Madre, Santa Maria.

VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS OVER ZOOM Visit site or call to learn about various virtual workshop offerings. ongoing Varies. Unwind Studio, 130 N. Broadway, suite B, Santa Maria, 805-748-2539, unwindsantamaria.com.

16TH

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

ANNUAL BRICE FABING MEMORIAL BIKE

AND HELMET DRIVE Distributing brand new bicycles to needy children in the Lompoc community since 2006. New bike and helmet donations will be accepted between Dec. 1 and Dec. 15. Call for more details. Through Dec. 15 805-735-6350. Bike and Helmet Drive location, 1341 Marigold Way, Lompoc.

FOUNDING DAY MASS AND REMEMBRANCE Held in the historic main church to celebrate the founding of the mission. Public welcome to attend the Mass for free. Dec. 8, noon lapurisimamission.org. La Purisima Mission, 2295 Purisima Mission, Lompoc.

LAS POSADAS Join costumed docents as they lead the Las Posadas procession though the mission grounds with songs in Spanish and English. The tradition dates back more than 400 years in Mexico. Dec. 18, 2 p.m. lapurisimamission.org. La Purisima Mission, 2295 Purisima Mission, Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF

CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. ongoing Starts at $70. 805-8357873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.

FREE YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMS, AND COMMUNITY CARETAKERS Join for some well-deserved self-care. Anyone including fire, EMS, police, hospital workers, medical staff, assisted living caretakers, etc. is welcome. All yoga abilities are encouraged to attend. Please email empoweryoga805@ gmail.com in advance to enroll. Thursdays, 6-7 p.m. 805-619-0989. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, empoweryoga805.com.

HOLIDAY STORIES AT THE CLIFFS Enjoy hearing some holiday stories by the fire in The Cliffs lobby. Dec. 16, 5:30 p.m. 805-773-5000. cliffshotelandspa.com/ cliffsmas/. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach.

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL AT THE CLIFFS Join for Monday Night Football and an ugly sweater contest. Mondays, 5:15 p.m. through Dec. 26 Free. 805-7735000. cliffshotelandspa.com/cliffsmas/. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52 Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches

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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.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS Tours will give you a glimpse into the lives of Lighthouse Keepers and their families, while helping keep our jewel of the Central Coast preserved and protected. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

SALT AND SUNDRY SPA OPEN HOUSE AT THE CLIFFS Explore spa offerings at The Cliffs and enjoy some complimentary treats. Dec. 15, 5-7 p.m. 805-7735000. cliffshotelandspa.com/cliffsmas/. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach.

SANTA’S DOGGIE PARADE This year’s parade participants will receive goodie bags donated by Petco Arroyo Grande. Dogs compete for best dog costume, best dog/owner look alike, best holiday look, funniest costume, and best in show. Dec. 10, 11 a.m. 805-6271997. avilabeachcc.com. Avila Beach Promenade, 404 Front St., Avila Beach.

SHELL BEACH CLEAN UP The public is welcome to come help clean up Shell Beach. Dec. 8, 10 a.m. 805-773-5000. cliffshotelandspa.com/cliffsmas/. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach.

SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. 805904-6615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.

THIRD ANNUAL HOLIDAY LIGHTS CRUISE AND GIFT DRIVE To support Nipomo families in need. Dec. 17, 6-9 p.m. $5 donation; or an Amazon registry purchase. Nipomo Costa Pacifica Estates, Vista del Rio and Hutton Road, Nipomo.

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.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. 559-905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.

FREE DAY AT THE GARDEN Head on over to the SLO Botanical Garden for free admission. Bring the whole family and make a day of nature and exploration. There will be activities for everyone to enjoy. Dec. 11, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo, 8055411400.

FREE GUIDED MEDITATION GROUP A free guided meditation group held every Friday morning. Call for more info. Fridays, 10-10:45 a.m. through Jan. 27 Free. 805-4392757. RuthCherryPhD.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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

LEARN TO SQUARE DANCE: A NEW DANCER CLASS Have fun dancing to a wide variety of music. No experience necessary. No dress code. Partners welcome (no partner needed). 12 weeks of instruction begins Sept. 15. Thursdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m. through Dec. 15 $50 for the entire class. 805-221-5437. squaredancecentralcoast.com. SLO Guild Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

LIGHT UP A LIFE 2022 A fundraiser to celebrate and honor your loved ones who are no longer present, but certainly not forgotten. For 38 years, Hospice SLO County’s Light Up A Life season has offered special ceremonies at locations throughout SLO County. Through Dec. 14 my805tix.com. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 781-8220.

LITERACY FOR LIFE TUTOR TRAINING Takes place via Zoom. If you are interested in attending the training but need help with using Zoom, please email assistant@ literacyforlifeslo.org. Dec. 10, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. literacyforlifeslo.org/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

MULTICULTURAL HOLIDAY CELEBRATION The NAACP SLO County presents their annual Multicultural Holiday Celebration and Silent Auction. Celebrate the season with song, dance, spoken word, and a special Kwanzaa presentation. Dec. 10, 6-8 p.m. Free admission. 805-619-5354. naacpslocty.org. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Hall, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo.

NOVY’S ARK HOLIDAY BENEFIT Help support Novy’s Ark Dog Rescue and Adoption this holiday season. Shop festive handmade ornaments and bid on amazing auction items; 100 percent of proceeds support Novy’s Ark’s rescue dogs. Dec. 11, 4-6 p.m. Free. 805-574-0320. eventbrite.com. Saucelito Canyon Tasting Room, 3080 Biddle Ranch Rd., San Luis Obispo.

REINDEER RUN 5K The San Luis Obispo County

Friday Night Live Partnership is excited to host the annual Reindeer Run, which brings community members together to participate in a 5K fun run and celebrate the winter season. Dec. 10, 9-11 a.m. $25. slofnl.com/reindeer-run.

Mitchell Park, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo.

SECOND ANNUAL SENIOR SANTA EVENT

Community members are encouraged to adopt a wish list for a senior to help ensure they have a happy holiday. Hosted by the Senior Angels of the Central Coast. Through Jan. 1, 2023 seniorangelsofthecentralcoast.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.

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.

SUPPORT GROUP

FOR CAREGIVERS OF PERSONS WITH FTD

(FRONTOTEMPORAL DEMENTIA) A welcoming meeting providing information and support for caregivers of people with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). FTD is a dementia that affects younger people and is very difficult for families. This is an open group. Caregivers can drop in for information, supportive discussion, and caregiving tips. Second Saturday of every month, 2:30-4 p.m. through Jan. 14 805-471-8102. calpoly.zoom.us/j/83141446835. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

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. 805323-6706. meetup.com/softec/. StoryLabs, 102 Cross St, Suite 220, San Luis Obispo.

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peerto-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.

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.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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/.

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. TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805-332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

SECOND SATURDAY OPEN AIR MARKET: LOS

OLIVOS 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. 805-722-4338. Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

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

CLIFFSMAS: HOLIDAY BRUNCH

AT MARISOL Enjoy a holiday brunch at Marisol with specialties including lobster benedict, hot chocolate French toast, and much more. Saturdays, Sundays. through Dec. 31 805-7735000. cliffshotelandspa.com/cliffsmas/. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach.

SALT & SUNDRY SIP & SHOP AT THE CLIFFS Bring your besties for some holiday shopping, and a glass of bubbles at The Cliffs on-site boutique. Dec. 11, 3-7 p.m. 805-773-5000. cliffshotelandspa.com/cliffsmas/. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach.

MUSIC

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.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY CONCERT SERIES: 42ND SEASON The SYV Concert Series’ 2022-23 season includes five upcoming concerts, between October and May. Through May 13, 2023 smitv.org/syv-concertseries.html. St. Mark’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, 2901 Nojoqui Ave., Los Olivos.

MUSIC

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:305:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, 805-686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

CERTAIN SPARKS’ WINTER YOUTH RECITAL

2022 Visit Certain Sparks’ website for more info on this upcoming student showcase. Dec. 10, 12-7 p.m. 805-588-9479. certainsparks.com. Lompoc Wine Factory, 321 N. D St., Lompoc.

FOUNDING DAY CONCERT More than 500 lanterns lead the way to an evening of candlelight and music celebrating the founding of mission in 1787. Enjoy a musical performance in the setting of the historic church by candlelight. Dec. 8, 7 p.m. lapurisimamission.org. La Purisima Mission, 2295 Purisima Mission, Lompoc.

LOMPOC CONCERT ASSOCIATION: 2022-23 SEASON Visit website for full list of the Lompoc Concert Association’s 2022-23 programming. Through March 18, 2023 lompocconcert.org. First United Methodist Church, 925 North F St., Lompoc.

MIKE HEALY AND THE CANARIES A night of alt country and alternative rock. Dec. 9, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

A VERY SPECIAL

FUNDRAISER FOR

THE FAMILIES OF DOROTHY GUTHRIE AND JENNA TWOMEY With DJ sets by DJ BHB (Jerry Twomey), Brooklyn Basement, O.con, and Seanathan. Food, drink, beer, wine, and cocktails will be available for purchase. Dec. 16, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS COME, LET US ADORE HIM: FREE CHRISTMAS

CONCERT Presented by Fountainview Academy Orchestra and Singers from British Columbia, Canada. Dec. 9, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Santa Maria Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 1775 S. Thornburg St, Santa Maria, 805-406-3627, Fountainview.ca.

HARMONY HOLIDAY CONCERT Central Coast

Harmony Chorus, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, presents “Harmony Holiday.” Celebrate the holidays in song. Donations are greatly appreciated. Dec. 10, 4-5:30 p.m. Free admission. 805-736-7572. Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 4725 S. Bradley Rd., Orcutt.

THE HOMESTEAD: LIVE MUSIC

ON THE PATIO

Check the Homestead’s Facebook page for details on live music events. Fridays, Saturdays The Homestead, 105 W. Clark Ave, Old Orcutt, 805-287-9891, thehomesteadoldorcutt.com.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ADVENT FESTIVAL OF LESSONS AND CAROLS

An evening of singing and readings. Lead by the St. Barnabas’ Choral Scholars and Chancel Choir. Reception to follow. Dec. 11, 5-6 p.m. Free. 805-4892990. St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 301 Trinity Way, Arroyo Grande.

BSR: HOLIDAY PARTY The Friendly Neighborhood Band will play for your listening and dancing pleasure. The opening band is Three Martini Lunch. Dec. 18, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. my805tix.com. Pismo Beach Veterans Memorial Hall, 780 Bello St., Pismo Beach.

CHRISTMAS CHOIR Sing your way into the new year. Bring your choir binders (new members will have binders provided) Some new original tunes and some standard Christmas Songs will be included in this years program. Contact for end date. Tuesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. through Dec. 20 Free. Richard Inman, Private Home TBA, Arroyo Grande, 805-937-4413.

HOME CONCERTS Dirty Cello brings the world a high energy and unique spin on blues and bluegrass. Led by cellist Rebecca Roudman. Dec. 8, 7-9:30 p.m. $20-$35. my.listeningroomnetwork.com. Tunes On Mentone, 1901 Mentone Ave., Grover Beach, 805-441-5868.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ANOTHER CHRISTMAS IN PARIS: JAZZ

CONCERT A holiday jazz concert at the Penny featuring vocalist Deborah Gilmore with an all-star cast of local musicians. The music for this soiree will include favorite Christmas songs and some jazz standards. Dec. 14, 6:45-9 p.m. my805tix.com. The Penny, 664 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS CONCERT SERIES:

NIPOMO AND SAN LUIS OBISPO LOCATIONS

Get in the spirit by attending a choral music performance by Vocal Arts Ensemble. Enjoy classical holiday tunes and a sing-a-long at various locations in early December. Dec. 11, 4-6 p.m. $30-$40 (students $10). 805-541-6797. vocalarts.org. SLO County, Various locations, San Luis Obispo.

SAN FRANCISCO YIDDISH COMBO AT BETH DAVID SLO Klezmer for the 21st century. Dec. 11, 3-5 p.m. $25-$30. 805-544-0760. bethdavidslo.org. Congregation Beth David, 10180 Los Osos Valley Rd., San Luis Obispo. m

Arts Briefs

Rotary Club of Solvang donates $5,000 to Solvang Theaterfest

Earlier this year, the Rotary Club of Solvang teamed up with local nonprofit Solvang Theaterfest to co-produce a live comedy show at the Solvang Festival Theater. The September event featured prolific comedian Brian Regan and turned out to be a sold-out show, according to Solvang Theaterfest.

The two groups split the proceeds. In late November, the Rotary Club announced that it would use part of its share of the proceeds to make a donation of $5,000 to Solvang Theaterfest.

“It was a pleasure to work in tandem with Theaterfest to bring such a quality performance to the Santa Ynez Valley,” Allan Jones, event chair for the Rotary Club of Solvang, said in a statement. “We had great support from local business sponsors and fans from all over the Central Coast, which made for a truly special evening that exceeded our fundraising goals.

“It is said that laughter is the best medicine. Everyone said they felt better after the show,” Jones added. “We hope to bring Brian Regan back next year for an encore and provide another health service to our community.”

In addition to the Theaterfest donation, the Rotary Club used its proceeds to benefit local student scholarships, senior services, community projects, and other causes, according to the organization.

Nipomo Library hosts Reading to Rover youth program

The Nipomo Library will host its next Reading to Rover event on Wednesday, Dec. 14, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Children are welcome to come to the library and read books to two friendly therapy dogs during this program designed for preschool and elementary school students.

For more info on the event and additional offerings at the Nipomo Library, call (805) 929-3994. The library is located at 918 W. Tefft St., Nipomo.

Winter Festival Market showcases local artists and crafters

Under the trees

Altrusa raffles holiday trees and prizes to benefit local nonprofits and student scholarships

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

is the season for televised holiday favorites, like Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas and the 1978 Star Wars Holiday Special. Characters from both winter essentials were recently sighted at the Santa Maria Town Center.

A storefront on the mall’s second floor currently houses a couple dozen Christmas trees up for raffle to benefit local causes supported by Altrusa of the Central Coast, including a Star Wars-themed tree that was in danger of being stolen by the Grinch during one of his visits to the site.

But the tree’s donators/decorators—staff members at the California Men’s Colony—made sure their creation was well protected that evening.

“They sent a stormtrooper and Kylo Ren to stand guard and take pictures with everyone,” said Leticia Kossuth, co-director of Altrusa of the Central Coast. “The Grinch vowed to convert them to ‘the Green Side.’ It was truly an epic night.”

The green menace was a constant source of mayhem and mischief during his recent visit, “although he was kind enough to make sure he took pictures with all the children,” Kossuth admitted.

Showtime!

Festive fundraising

visit altrusaofthecentralcoast.org or altrusaofgoldenvalley.org.

Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum, the Santa Maria Philharmonic Society, and more than 20 other organizations—that reach out to the Altrusa chapters for grant funding as well as student scholarships.

“This is our largest fundraiser of the year. We raised $73,000 last year, and this year we are looking at raising more,” Kossuth said. “The proceeds from this annual tree festival go back to the community in scholarships and grants. Over the years, we have been fortunate to see these funds put to use all over our community.”

Each year, the Altrusa of the Central Coast fundraiser runs for about two weeks starting on Black Friday. Visitors are welcome to browse through the fundraiser’s vast tree selection and purchase raffle tickets to bid for their favorites. One winning ticket is pulled for each tree.

From this year’s selection, Kossuth said she has several personal favorites. One tree comes with a weekend getaway to Shaver Lake, which has been catching some kids’ attention, she’s noticed.

$1,000 worth of gifts incorporated into their display,” Kossuth said. “Our sponsors are always so incredibly generous and creative.”

Under the aforementioned Star Wars-themed tree, titled “Silent Night, Jedi Night,” for example, is a plethora of Star Wars figurines, Lego sets, and other merchandise, along with a $1,000 Disney gift card. The cost of raffle tickets is $1 each.

“We have trees that come with Disneyland tickets, Knotts Berry Farm tickets, an Xbox, outdoor pizza ovens, a weekend trip to Shaver Lake, and so much more,” said Kossuth, who has been involved with Altrusa since 2009.

The Knott’s Berry Farm tickets lie under a tree— donated and decorated by staff members at the Community Health Centers of the Central Coast—adorned with ornaments of Snoopy and other Peanuts characters.

The Santa Maria Town Center event features more than 25 trees for raffle participants to choose from, Kossuth said. A separate selection of trees up for raffle is located at Santa Maria’s Kia dealership on South Bradley Avenue, hosted by another local chapter of Altrusa, Altrusa of Golden Valley.

The proceeds from both raffles benefit local organizations—including the Santa Maria Public Library Foundation, the

“So many kids have said they’ve never been to the snow, so they really want to win that one,” said Kossuth, who added that it’s easy to find something that appeals to “everyone in the family” under the festival’s trees.

Purchasing a raffle ticket isn’t required for guests to browse through the event’s festive, larger-than-life display area of trees, which really has to be seen to be believed, Kossuth explained.

“It’s all so incredible to take in. It all really needs to be seen in person,” said Kossuth, who also mentioned a voting opportunity for guests of the event. “We do ask everyone to come and vote for their favorite [tree] so we can declare a people’s choice award winner.” m

Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood is no grinch—he bought six raffle tickets. Send comments to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.

Birchwood Garden Barn and Home in Nipomo presents the Winter Festival Market, which will be open on Saturday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both days. The two-day pop-up boutique sale will feature items from more than 25 local crafters, artists, and other vendors.

Each purchase during the sale includes a ticket to enter into a raffle for door prizes. Admission to the event is free. To find out more, call (805) 723-5102 or visit birchwoodnipomo.com. Birchwood is located at 323 W. Teft St., Nipomo. m

Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

The winners of Altrusa’s Festival of Trees raffle will be drawn on Dec. 11, and it’s not too late to enter for a chance to win one of the event’s several trees—and the gifts placed under each one. Ticket sales end on Dec. 10.

“Throughout the year, we ask local businesses and organizations to sponsor a tree. Those sponsors choose a theme and include at least

PHOTO COURTESY OF SOLVANG THEATERFEST

FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF CYNDI NUNEZ

’T

PHOTOS BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

TAKE A CHANCE ON TREE: Guests of Altrusa’s Festival of Trees in the Santa Maria Town Center browse the event’s festive display area and bid for their favorite trees. Ticket sales for the annual raffle end on Dec. 10. Winners will be drawn on Dec. 11 at noon, but participants do not need to be present in order to win.

Ticket sales for Altrusa’s fundraiser trees and the gifts under them end on Dec. 10, and winners will be drawn on Dec. 11. For more info on grant and scholarship opportunities offered by local chapters of Altrusa,

WHAT’S THE SCOOP, SNOOP: Donated by the Community Health Centers of the Central Coast, the Peanuts-themed tree package at Altrusa’s fundraiser features a variety of Peanuts merchandise and tickets to Knott’s Berry Farm.

THIS IS THE TREE YOU’RE LOOKING FOR: Gifts under the Star Wars-themed tree, titled “Silent Night, Jedi Night,” include Star Wars figurines and Lego sets, along with a $1,000 Disney gift card. This tree was decorated by staff members at the California Men’s Colony.

Send gallery, stage, and cultural festivities to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

Better off dead

Co-writer Paul Leyden directs this sequel to the 2013 action comedy R.I.P.D., about an afterlife law enforcement agency whose operatives go after Deados—monsters and demons disguised as humans. (102 min.)

Glen: I think the first question we have to ask about this unnecessary and unwelcome sequel is why? Why make a sequel of a box office bomb that cost $130 million to make but that only returned $78 million? The original even had Ryan Reynolds and Jeff Bridges, and it still sucked like a brand-new topof-the-line vacuum. At least the sequel producers had the good sense to send this straight to Netflix and not embarrass themselves by attempting a theatrical release. The story opens in the American West circa 1876, and Sheriff Roy Pulsipher (Jeffrey Donovan) is shooting it out with a notorious gang when he’s shot in the back and finds himself at the Rest In Peace Department office, where he’s offered a chance to go back to Earth to stop Otis Clairborne (Richard Brake), who’s really a demon who plans to breach the Gates of Hell and release all the demons. Of course, Roy has other plans, such as revenge for his murder and seeing his soon-to-be-married daughter, Charlotte (Tilly Keeper), again and saving Tilly’s milquetoast

fiancé, Angus (Richard Fleeshman), but instead he’s teamed with Jeanne (Penelope Mitchell), his sword-toting R.I.P.D. partner, who has to keep Roy on task. It’s as ridiculous and convoluted as it sounds, but lucky for you, there’s so much hamfisted plot exposition that you’ll never get lost.

This film stinks more than the poisonous gas seeping from the breach in Hell’s Gates.

Anna: I like Donovan, and he worked hard to try and make this funny, but the material just isn’t there. I’m not sure why this got greenlit. Maybe the first film had some “so bad it’s good” renaissance I don’t know about or an underground cult following. Unfortunately, the premise is so ill-conceived that the cast spends half the time explaining plot points to get the audience invested. It didn’t work, at least for me. On IMDb, this comes in more than a full point behind its predecessor—not a great sign for any more films from this “franchise.” Roy and Jeanne get a third character to quip with in Slim Samuels (Jake Choi), an outlaw/Deado they capture who wants his soul to have a retrial. Unfortunately, adding more ingredients to this soup didn’t help; it’s just a mess.

Glen: Donovan did his darnedest to re-create Jeff Bridges’ Roy Pulsipher, but the film didn’t have a Ryan Reynolds. Instead, Roy is teamed with a humorless woman warrior who turns out to be a famous heroine from history. I won’t tell

TV & Film Reviews

FLEISHMAN IS IN TROUBLE

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2022

Where’s it showing? Hulu

Dr. Toby Fleishman (Jesse Eisenberg) can’t find his wife, Rachel (Claire Danes). Well, ex-wife that is. He’s working through the dissolution of his marriage, diving into the world of dating apps, trading a fancy New York apartment for a bachelor pad, and reconnecting with his friends from the past. One friend, Libby (Lizzy Caplan), is the narrator for this series and dives into his life before Rachel, with her, and after.

It’s not so great if you dislike watching conflict on-screen or uncomfortable emotional difficulty. Neither Rachel nor Toby are particularly appealing. He’s nebbish and nitpicky and jealously obsessive. She’s cold and unwilling to change or work on herself, disconnected, and generally pretty mean. But their emotional difficulties feel real, and the acting is terrific.

With five episodes out as of press time and three more to come, Fleishman is in Trouble offers a look at imperfection, a

fly-on-the-wall view of an unhealthy and unhappy relationship, but also perspective on when it wasn’t those things. Fans of quiet drama who don’t mind a bit of discomfort watching intimate fights will appreciate this FX series. (eight 48-min. episodes)

—Anna

you who, but in addition to her sword, Jeanne’s afraid of fire. Like the original, the “joke” is that living humans can’t see Roy and Jeanne as they are. Instead, they have human avatars—in this case two Black women (Rachel Adedeji for Roy and Evlyne Oyedokun for Jeanne), and you can imagine the kind of treatment they get in the Wild West. Cue tepid racism jokes. The first film should have been left buried and forgotten. Anna: I didn’t see the original, so I can’t speak to its merit, but its follow-up fell totally flat for me. There just isn’t a whole lot here to root for

ZOLA

What’s it rated? R When? 2020 Where’s it showing? Showtime

You’d be forgiven if you’ve never heard of Zola. It debuted at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2020 and had a limited theatrical release in 2021, but despite being nominated for and winning a raft of awards, it’s drifted into obscurity. Frankly, it deserves recognition.

The story, written by director Janicza Bravo and playwright Jeremy O. Harris, is based on a 2015 viral Twitter thread by Aziah “Zola” King that was chronicled in the Rolling Stone article “Zola Tells All: The Real Story Behind the Greatest Striper Saga Ever Tweeted” by David Kushner. It’s a dark, twisted story about a segment of America’s sexual underbelly. Zola (Taylour Paige) is a waitress and part-time dancer who meets crass fellow dancer Stefani (Riley Keough), who convinces Zola to join her; her “roommate,” X (Colman Domingo); and her dimwitted boyfriend, Derrek (Nicholas Braun), on a road trip from Detroit to Tampa, where she’s promised a fat payday for dancing at a club. Instead, Zola is caught up in a prostitution scheme that requires every bit of

besides the “don’t let the demons out of hell” thing, and the attempts at humor didn’t work. I zoned out quickly on this one—not a great sign. I don’t want to knock the actors; they just weren’t given much of anything to work with, and what they were given just stunk. I hope this is the last attempt to make R.I.P.D. a thing. Skip it. m

New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Glen compiles listings. Comment at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.

her wits to navigate. It’s like watching a really well-written and acted train wreck unfold. (86 min.) m —Glen

PHOTO

ROUGH RIDE: Jeanne (Tilly Keeper) and Roy (Jeffrey Donovan) are dead, but they’re also law enforcement sent from the afterlife to stop an earthly breach of Hell’s Gate, in R.I.P.D 2: Rise of the Damned, streaming on Netflix.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ABC SIGNATURE

ESTRANGEMENT:

MIXED SIGNALS: Exotic dancers Stefani (Riley Keough, left) and Zola (Taylour Paige) road trip to Florida to work a lucrative club but quickly discover they’re at cross purposes, in Zola, streaming on Showtime.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KILLER FILMS

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Alocal produce carrier is hoping to redefine the farmers market scene in Lompoc. Route One, a nonprofit that hosts weekly farmers market events in Vandenberg Village, is extending its reach to multiple locations in the Lompoc Valley, thanks to a new custom-designed food truck.

“Getting this truck ready to roll has definitely been a long journey,” said Shelby Wild, executive director of Route One. “We experienced many of the same challenges that any young organization undertaking something new likely does, compounded by the fact that we were tackling this throughout the extreme upheavals that we all experienced these last few years—everything from COVIDrelated supply chain issues and shipping delays, to cost inflation and issues.”

Route One was founded in 2019 with the goal of increasing Lompoc residents’ access to locally and sustainably grown food while “bridging barriers that hinder our low-income community from shopping at farmers markets,” said Wild, who described the mobile market

concept as the “next best step” in the nonprofit’s mission.

The group’s traditional farmers market event, held every Sunday morning in Vandenberg Village, is known as the only farmers market between Solvang and San Luis Obispo that allows customers to pay with electronic benefit transfer (EBT) and through Market Match. Route One will offer the same options during pop-up events facilitated by the new food truck.

“We strongly believe in empowering our community in their ability to purchase fresh, local produce and will continue to work to provide resources that align with those goals,” Wild said. “Very soon, the truck will be able to accept CalFresh/SNAP benefits or EBT— previously known as food stamps—to purchase produce.

“Through our Market Match program, we will be able to double the first $10 of EBT benefits spent,” Wild added. “So, for the first $10 of EBT dollars spent, customers will get an additional $10 to spend on produce, every week.”

The Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted an official ribbon cutting ceremony in late November to

celebrate the launch of Route One’s food truck, which the nonprofit’s organizers plan to take to several areas throughout the Lompoc Valley, although the list of destinations hasn’t been finalized yet. One confirmed location is the Lompoc Health Care Center, Wild said.

“The Lompoc Health Care Center has been an amazing and welcoming partner, and we are looking forward to setting up the mobile market weekly at their clinic, at 301 N. R St.,” Wild said.

“We are working with the city of Lompoc to finalize other operation locations

throughout the city where we can be most accessible. We plan to set up at or near the Lompoc YMCA weekly, as well as at Food Truck Friday on South I Street every Friday evening.”

Route One was able to commission the

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROUTE ONE

TRUCKIN’: Shelby Wild, executive director of Route One, stands in front of the local nonprofit’s new custom-designed food truck, which will be used to host mobile farmers market events at various locations in the Lompoc Valley.

FILE PHOTO BY HAYLEY THOMAS-CAIN

DUO OF DREAMERS: One of Route One’s participating vendors is Dare 2 Dream Farms in Lompoc, operated by Jeremy (left) and Megan Raff (right). The local growers started working with Route One in 2019.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROUTE ONE

WEEKLY ROUTE: Route One’s traditional farmers market event, held every Sunday morning in Vandenberg Village, is known as the only farmers market between

The holidays can be stressful, but for survivors of child sexual abuse or any form of violence they can be extremely difficult There are many different reasons for this; perhaps your family is tied to the abuse somehow, perhaps they didn't believe you or they didn't stop it, or they didn't support you in getting help. For some, the holidays may present the real possibility that you will be in the same room with the person that abused you You are not alone and there are many resources available to help you. The North County Rape Crisis and Child Protection Center is a resource for you in your community Don't be afraid to ask for help! We can help you recognize your triggers, make a plan ahead of time, and listen Advocates are standing by, just for you.

custom-designed food truck from scratch, thanks to funding from three regional grants from the Santa Barbara County Food Action Network, the Santa Barbara Foundation, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture. The state grant was secured by the Lompoc Valley Community Healthcare Organization and used to support Route One’s efforts in launching the mobile market.

Wild believes one of the biggest benefits of having a food truck is relieving Route One’s participating farmers of “the extra work and time demands of setting up and selling at a farmers market,” the nonprofit’s executive director said.

Selections from several Central Coast-based

vendors are available during Route One’s events, including Dare 2 Dream Farms, Bautista Family Farms, Wolfe Family Farms, and other sellers.

“The truck also expands the amount of hours and locations the food sales are available by physically bringing the food into neighborhoods and locations that don’t have access otherwise for many more hours throughout the week,” Wild added.

“The truck will be stocked with fresh local produce staples that households can rely on for nutritious meals.” m

Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood’s favorite mobile is the Batmobile. Send comments to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.

GATHER AROUND: Proof and Gather Baking Company owner Kaitlin Munoz has been selling baked goods—including sourdough bread, English muffins, cookies, pastries, and seasonal items—during Route One’s farmers market events since 2020.

Photo by Tim Hauf

Photo by Steve Munch