Sun, September 28, 2023

Since April, Santa Barbara County has been attempting to hash out what the future of ambulance services looks like. The Board of Supervisors recently decided to award the contracts to the County Fire Department, essentially kicking longtime ambulance provider AMR out of the county. Residents are questioning the process that brought the county to this point, and AMR is threatening to sue. Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor speaks with the county and AMR about the saga and what the future holds for emergency services [6]

In addition, you can read about a grower with a slew of H-2A violations [4]; the centennial celebration for Cecil B. DeMille’s Ten Commandments [18]; and Lasagna Love, a nonprofit that delivers deliciousness [21]

• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) announced the Health Equity and Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) Community Inclusion act, legislation that would help make sure the federal government accurately recognizes the experiences and needs of members of MENA communities, according to a Sept. 22 statement from the senator’s office. This bill would help make them eligible for targeted minority public health programs and resources. “Every individual deserves access to high-quality and affordable health care, but the federal government has consistently failed to adequately address the unique health needs of many racial and ethnic minority groups like Middle Eastern and North African communities,” Padilla said in the statement.

“California is home to the largest MENA population in the United States, and I am proud to introduce this legislation to finally ensure they get the recognition and resources they deserve. This bill also supports targeted government research into health outcomes for MENA populations so we can continue to break down historical health inequities.” Specifically, the Health Equity and Middle Eastern and North African Community Inclusion Act would amend the Public Health Service Act of 1944 by adding “Middle Easterners and North Africans” to the definition of “racial and ethnic minority groups” at the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority Health, making MENA individuals and communities eligible for resources designed for historically marginalized groups. These resources and programs—which MENA communities have not been able to fully access because the federal government often categorizes them as “white”—are specifically designed to address the negative public health impacts experienced by many in historically marginalized communities.

• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) joined a bicameral group of Democratic lawmakers to introduce the Child Care Stabilization Act to extend federal child care funding—which is set to expire at the end of this month—and to ensure that child care providers can keep their doors open and continue serving children and families in every part of the country, according to a Sept. 19 statement from Carbajal’s office. “This funding for child care has been critical to California providers and the working families that rely on them—and I’m committed to seeing Congress prevent this devastating funding cliff at the end of this fiscal year,” Carbajal said in the statement. “Child care is not just a family issue, it is an economic issue. The ripple effects of this expiration would be felt by small businesses, industries, and communities across our nation.” During the pandemic, Democrats in Congress delivered $24 billion in child care funding to save the sector from collapse and prevent families from losing their spots, and that funding was set to run out Sept. 23. The Child Care Stabilization Act could prevent a potential crisis when funding expires by providing $16 billion in mandatory funding each year for the next five years to continue the Child Care Stabilization Grant program that aims to provide child care providers with a stable, reliable source of funding to help them deliver high-quality and affordable child care for working families across the country.

• Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order to urge Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara to take action to stabilize and improve California’s property insurance marketplace as climate change threatens more communities with extreme wildfires, floods, and droughts, according to a Sept. 21 statement from the governor’s office. Some insurance companies have already announced they will stop issuing new policies in California and others are limiting policy renewals. “This is yet another example of how climate change is directly threatening our communities and livelihoods. It is critical that California’s insurance market works to protect homes and businesses in every corner of our state. A balanced approach that will help maintain fair prices and protections for Californians is essential,” Newsom said in the statement. “I look forward to continuing to work with Commissioner Lara and others to strengthen our marketplace and protect Californians.” Specifically, the executive order requests that the commissioner of insurance strengthen and stabilize California’s marketplace to expand choices, have a better rate approval process, a stronger FAIR (Fair Access to Insurance Requirements) plan to protect policyholders in the face of climate change, and accelerate regulation implementation. m

the U.S.

Rancho Nuevo violates farmworker rights, ordered to pay $1 million in back wages

The U.S. Department of Labor found that Santa Maria labor contractor Rancho Nuevo Harvesting Inc. violated H-2A agricultural worker program regulations and ordered the company to pay more than $1 million in back wages and penalties.

The H-2A agricultural worker program allows agricultural employers who anticipate a shortage of workers to bring nonimmigrant, foreign workers to the U.S. to perform temporary or seasonal labor. Within the program, employers are required to provide adequate food, housing, transportation, and pay for the time the workers are requested, according to the Department of Labor website.

“Temporary agricultural workers are often among the most vulnerable and abused in the nation’s workforce,” Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division Regional Administrator Ruben Rosalez in the San Francisco office said in a statement. “The outcome in this case should be a reminder to other farm labor contractors and growers of the costly consequences of violating federal regulations and that lying during an H-2A certification process can be grounds for debarment.”

Investigators found that Rancho Nuevo didn’t provide meals on Sundays and didn’t provide transportation to and from housing sites, supplied spoiled food for the farmworkers’ meals, housed them in unsafe quarters, and illegally sought meal and voluntary quit waivers, said Francisco Ocampo, the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division’s Assistant Director in Los Angeles.

“They were saying the workers were the ones choosing not to eat the meals. Talking to the workers, that was not the case. They were told when they arrived that meals wouldn’t be provided on Sundays,” Ocampo said about the waivers. “Part of the investigation’s findings found that the workers on average spent $40 to $50 to purchase their own breakfast, lunch, and dinner.”

Voluntary quit waivers meant that the employer could send H-2A workers back to their home country early rather than pay the workers for their full contracts, he added.

“The company must still honor that and part of the settlements are the wages the company has to pay back,” Ocampo said.

Rancho Nuevo will pay $558,298 in unpaid wages to 649 farmworkers and an additional $475,211 in penalties for repeated violations.

“We are going to be collecting the wages and working with Mexican consultants to have the monies paid out to the workers to make sure they receive their due wages,” Ocampo said.

The company is not barred from participating in the H-2A program—which can often happen in these cases—but is required to hire a full-

time monitor with at least five years of H-2A experience, Ocampo said. If violations happen again, there is potential for Rancho Nuevo to be barred, he added.

“The monitoring company will do what we’re doing, but it’s a private company that reviews payroll records, interviews employees, looks at transit to make sure it’s complying with the consent judgment,” he said.

Rancho Nuevo officials told the Sun in an email that the company fully cooperated with the Department of Labor on its investigation and the department never sought debarment from the H-2A program.

“We are moving forward with enhanced compliance to ensure we are fully following the law and providing the healthiest, safest work environment for our employees,” officials said in a statement.

Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) Associate Organizing Director Zulema Aleman said that it’s hard for workers to know their rights because they are often isolated from the community, and employers oversee their whole life while working in the U.S.

“There’s no way to reach them even when we’re out in the community. They completely avoid us and tell us that they are not allowed to speak to us. Even domestic workers tell us what’s going on but they ask us not to use their names because they don’t want to be blacklisted,” Aleman said.

CAUSE continues working with local agencies like Public Health and Environmental Health Services to ensure that they are monitoring H-2A workers’ food quality and local California Employment Development Department offices so they can conduct investigations.

“We’re going to continue canvassing in the community. We just got a grant with the State Labor Enforcement Agency that funds community worker outreach programs across the state,” Aleman said.

Since Rancho Nuevo is not barred from participating in the H-2A program, Aleman said that she hopes serious actions will be taken— other than fines—if violations occur again to demonstrate that workers are protected.

“We should be providing actions that are more measurable to ensure that it sends a message,” she said. “It’s a huge responsibility to be in charge of an employee’s whole life: food, transportation, housing, and their job. I would like to see companies take this more seriously.”

—Taylor O’Connor

Solvang reluctantly approves new contract with the county sheriff

Without police departments of their own, four cities along the Central Coast depend on the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office for law enforcement services.

The current contracts between Solvang, Buellton, Goleta, and Carpinteria and the Sheriff’s Office expire on Sept. 29, leading each city to consider new terms laid out by the county before entering into their separate but similar agreements.

During the Solvang City Council’s Sept. 25 meeting, Solvang City Attorney Dave Fleishman said that discussions about the 2023-27 contract between the four contract cities and the Sheriff’s Office have been ongoing since November 2022.

The purpose of drafting a multi-year contract rather than a one- or two-year agreement was to set clear costs for each city to budget for in advance, Fleishman explained.

However, a recent provision added to the contract “nearly at the last moment—in midSeptember,” Fleishman said, states that the cost of any mid-contract salary increases for the Sheriff’s Office will be passed onto the contract cities.

As of the Solvang City Council’s Sept. 25 meeting, the county hadn’t provided Solvang with information related to what the potential fiscal impact to the city could be in the event of a mid-contract salary increase, according to Solvang’s staff report.

“Now the whole point of having this certainty that we were looking for has a potential out,” said Fleishman, who described the late addition as “a sucker punch to the gut.”

But Fleishman still recommended that the City Council approve the contract and added that Solvang always has the option to terminate the contract on one year’s notice without affecting the other three contract cities, as each contract is separate.

“I would say it’s better to have a contract where there’s a little bit of uncertainty than having no contract at all,” said Fleishman, who reminded the City Council that the city’s current 2022-23 agreement with the Sheriff’s Office will expire before the end of September.

“It’s uncertain to what level of response the sheriff’s department would provide in the absence of a contract,” Fleishman said. “But they seem to be taking the position that they’re under no legal obligation to do it.”

Councilmember Claudia Orona called the contract “a scam,” but reluctantly agreed with staff’s recommendation to approve it.

“We don’t have much of a choice,” Claudia Orona said. “We cannot gamble with public safety, so we have to approve the contract.”

Aside from being dissatisfied with the provision on mid-contract salary increases, members of the City Council and staff also expressed concern over the base amount Solvang would pay during the 2023-24 fiscal year: about $2.8 million.

During the 2022-23 fiscal year, Solvang’s contract with the Sheriff’s Office was priced at about $2.3 million. Councilmember Elizabeth Orona described the new contract as full of “escalating costs without any changes in the services received.”

“I can’t say with enough emphasis how frustrating it is to be confronted with the need to approve this agreement right now,” Elizabeth Orona said.

Fleishman said that during the negotiation process, staff asked the Sheriff’s Office for data on the services it’s currently providing to the city of Solvang specifically.

“We asked for some performance metrics. We asked for documentation, and we were met with resistance,” Fleishman said. “The sheriff’s department said they could not provide us with the kind of statistics we were looking for. And if they could, it would be an additional charge. So, it’s problematic.”

“What you’re exposing is the worst-case scenario when you’re negotiating with a single supplier,” Elizabeth Orona said to Fleishman. “This is taxpayer money. The lack of transparency is incredibly concerning.”

Councilmember Robert Clarke described the

RIGHTS AWARENESS: After

Department of Labor found that Rancho Nuevo Harvesting Inc. violated H-2A worker program regulations, CAUSE advocates are finding ways to communicate H-2A worker rights to community members to ensure their safety while working in the fields.

contract as putting the City Council “between a rock and a hard place.”

“As much as it pains me, I’m going to move to approve this contract,” said Councilmember David Brown, whose motion was seconded by Mayor Mark Infanti before being approved 5-0.

—Caleb Wiseblood

Reyes Peak Health Forest Project ruling moves to federal appeals court

Environmental organizations recently appealed a federal judge’s ruling in favor of the U.S. Forest Service’s Pine Mountain chaparral removal project to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

Known as the Reyes Peak Forest Health Project, the Los Padres National Forest project would remove chaparral and trees across 755 acres that extend along Pine Mountain between state Highway 33 and Reyes Peak in Ventura County, bordering Cuyama in Santa Barbara County. The project moved forward as part of an effort to mitigate wildfire impacts and declining health conditions in the area, according to previous Sun reporting.

“We are confident in the current science used in developing our forest health projects that will enhance the survivability of Reyes Peak as threats from climate change impact these unique areas,” said Andrew Madsen, a spokesperson for Los Padres National Forest.

Bryant Baker, the director of conservation and research for the nonprofit Los Padres ForestWatch, told the Sun that the coalition of plaintiffs—including ForestWatch, the Environmental Defense Center, the Center for Biological Diversity, and Patagonia—want an appeals court to look at the case again

because they believe the Forest Service violated the Endangered Species Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, and the Roadless Area Conservation Rule.

“The project didn’t go through an environmental assessment or impact report; [the Forest Service] used a loophole called a categorical exclusion. It’s important [for] projects of this size and scope, especially for projects that are extremely controversial. About 16,000 people submitted comments against this project,” Baker said.

Categorical exclusions allow certain projects to bypass the federal environmental review process based on location and size requirements, Baker said.

“Some are specific on what they can be used for like road maintenance or painting a ranger station because every single action a federal agency takes has to go through some level of environmental review for any action,” Baker said. “Of course it’d be ridiculous to fix a door at a ranger station that they would have to go through a full-blown environmental statement.”

In the last 10 years, Congress has added more categorical exclusions to environmental review requirements, including the Healthy Forest Restoration Act, a law that allows agencies to reduce the risk of fire and protect endangered species, he said.

“There are specific requirements that the Forest Service has for using these categorical exclusions, and we think they did not meet these requirements and the district court incorrectly said that they did,” Baker said.

The plaintiffs went through a long process to determine their appeal and legal strategy, Baker said. The coalition met the 60-day appeal deadline and should be filing its first brief in late November. m

—Taylor O’Connor

Ambulance argument

Santa Barbara County faces litigation after approving County Fire ambulance services contract

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

The decision to switch ambulance providers in Santa Barbara County was the single most important vote Bob Nelson has made as a supervisor, the 4th District representative told the Sun.

“I can’t imagine too many more votes I’ll have that will have more consequences than this. It really means a new era of public safety for our residents,” Nelson said.

On Sept. 19, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the Santa Barbara County Fire Department as the new provider for emergency medical services and voted 4-1 (with 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino dissenting for fear of litigation) to deny the application of its current provider, American Medical Response (AMR).

“Historically we just renewed the contracts with AMR, but that process doesn’t allow for us to ask for more. We can’t rethink the system, it was very prescribed,” Nelson said.

Now, AMR is preparing to sue the county for its decision based on state emergency medical services laws, and the Coalition for Labor, Agriculture, and Business (COLAB) is questioning the legitimacy of this transition as the county allowed its Fire Department to purchase 35 ambulances prior to reaching any agreement.

Santa Barbara County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig and other county officials told the Sun that the county has acted within its legal bounds and will have actions in place to ensure a smooth transition.

“AMR has had a monopoly on emergency medical services for more than 50 years, and it doesn’t surprise me one bit that they would use legal means to continue to fight for that,” Nelson said.

AMR served Santa Barbara County in an exclusive contract where the company acted as the sole ambulance provider for county residents in accordance with the state law. In 2019, the county issued a request for proposal (RFP) to see

what could be done to make adjustments to the current system.

“Our initial concept was to have a conversation about what the system would look like and how we can integrate emergency medical services systems in the county so we aren’t so siloed,” Nelson said.

County Fire and AMR responded to the RFP in May 2022, and both proposals were scored by an independent review panel. Although the Board of Supervisors felt that County Fire had the strongest capabilities to create a more transparent, integrated system that aligned with their goals, the panel scored AMR 317 points higher than County Fire, and the county’s Local Emergency Medical Services Agency (LEMSA), which oversees ambulance services, awarded the contract to AMR.

After AMR’s proposal was approved, the Board of Supervisors switched to a nonexclusive ambulance services agreement in April 2023. The nonexclusive program set up a tiered system and a new permitting process where applicants could apply for specific ambulance services: emergency medical calls; interfacility transport and special events transport; or critical care transport.

AMR only applied for emergency medical calls and County Fire applied for all three categories.

“I was fully prepared to have [County] Fire and AMR be awarded a permit,” Nelson said. “There would have definitely been some processes we had to figure out, but I walked in ready to do that, but AMR and the county said they needed 100 percent of the market to be feasible.”

AMR Vice President of Operations Mike Rice told the Sun that the county’s decision violated the California EMS Law, which creates a specific process for allowing exclusive ambulance services, like following an RFP.

“When it came to the point where AMR won, that’s when [the supervisors] opted to throw it out,” Rice said. “The law requires the county to designate LEMSA, an agency to provide regulatory oversight, and they are the only ones

allowed to set policies, rules, and procedures governing ambulance providers.”

The Board of Supervisors doesn’t have the authority to set those policies, he added, neither does it have the authority to pick a provider in the way the supervisors did, he added. By only selecting County Fire and not awarding AMR, the board created an exclusive system after moving to the nonexclusive agreement.

“To go from winning a competitive process by 317 points to not even being issued a permit is pretty disappointing, and it says a lot about the process and calls into question whether or not the patients and community are front of mind when it comes to this system,” Rice said.

AMR will continue providing ambulance services until March 2024 when the current contract is up, he said, and AMR’s working to keep its employees based in Santa Barbara County within the company, just in different service areas.

“I just think that as much as these things become complicated with politics and law and everything, we have to remember how this impacts our employees, and what’s hard for me is this uncertainty and making decisions on what their futures will look like,” Rice said.

Andy Caldwell, the executive director for COLAB, said that he has issues with the county’s decision because it ignored the original RFP.

“The county throws out the exclusive ambulance contract and says we’re going with a nonexclusive ambulance contract, and then they give the nonexclusive contract exclusively to County Fire,” Caldwell said. “What they did was they changed horses in the middle of the race while pretending it’s ethical, fair, and transparent.”

Allowing the Board of Supervisors the final say pulled the decision away from an independent evaluation and from professional experts’ input that was considered during the RFP process, he added.

“I’ve never seen anything like this in 32 years. This is the most politicized board I’ve ever seen and one of many occasions where they’re shafting the private sector,” Caldwell said.

Caldwell submitted California Public Records Act requests to the county for emails surrounding the contracts and said that he’s seen documents with concerns expressed by hospital CEOs about how critical care transfers and interfacility transfers will be handled and general concerns from the county’s LEMSA staff.

“In the documents, you can tell they are clearly frustrated and feel threatened,” he said.

Caldwell declined to share the documents with the Sun to protect those included who are “fearful of their jobs.”

Sue Anderson, president and CEO of Marian Regional Medical Center, told the Sun in an email that Marian will work with whichever provider the county places in charge of ambulance services.

“Our main concern is that we work closely with the chosen partner to make sure our community is well cared for and there will not be delays in service,” Anderson said.

Before a provider was selected and contracts were still in the works, the Santa Barbara County Debt Advisory Committee approved a County Fire purchase of 35 ambulances— something Caldwell said didn’t happen with proper authorization.

“The Debt Advisory Committee is not the approver of purchases, it’s whether borrowing money for something is advisable and they advise the board yes or no, they don’t approve purchases,” he said.

County Public Information Officer Kelsey Buttitta told the Sun in an email that the Debt Advisory Committee had authority to approve the purchase because the Fire Department went through a request for proposal process to purchase goods.

“This was a properly bid RFP to purchase goods. Because of this, it was within the purchasing agents’ authority to award the purchase order without going to the board and was kept within the county departments,” Buttitta said in her email.

County Fire Chief Hartwig said that the department had to purchase ambulances in advance in order to participate in the bidding process.

“As we talked with fire staff and the CEO’s Office, I said I was willing to make the investment knowing these are generic van conversions into ambulances that we could get at a really good price,” Hartwig said. “If we didn’t get them we could sell them for what we got them for.”

Regarding concerns about response times, he added that County Fire developed a transition plan to ensure there’s no gap in service and all calls will be answered in a timely manner.

“There’s details to that planning, but there’s redundant systems and plans in place so when something happens we have a backup plan,” Hartwig said.

Countywide, fire chiefs have joined in on the ambulance service discussion for the last five years to figure out ways to add more resources and create more programs to help improve the care for county constituents, he said.

“I don’t get a pay raise for this, I probably get more work. The cities and firefighters don’t get anything, [but] they get more services on the street and improved services to the people that we help every day,” Hartwig said. m

Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@santamariasun.com

NEW PROVIDER: After years of work and back-and-forth, Santa Barbara County Fire will take over ambulance services countywide, changing from American Medical Response—which served the county for 50 years.

‘I was fully prepared to have [County] Fire and AMR be awarded a permit. … But AMR and the county said they needed 100 percent of the market to be feasible.’

—Bob Nelson, 4th District county supervisor

Brick by Brick Fall Wine Festival

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

Atascadero Printery

Unity in the Community: Zongo All-Stars

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1 South Bay Community Center, Los Osos

Chef’s Harvest Dinner

29

Dark Horse Music Collective Presents: Songwriters in the Round

MONDAY, OCTOBER 2 BarrelHouse Brewing Taproom, SLO

SLOFunny Comedy Show: Key Lewis, John DiResta, Matt Knudsen

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 The Siren El Chorro, Dairy Creek, SLO

Latin Glow Party Festival: Music by Four DJs

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

2023 Fall Folk-n-Soak Music, Hot Springs, Yoga, Camping

SAT, SUN, SEPT. 29, 30, OCT. 1 Franklin Hot Springs, Paso Robles

Brushstrokes by the Greens: An Evening of Painting with Drew Davis

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3 Dairy Creek Golf Course, SLO

Camp Arroyo Grande

Dinner Dance

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7

Camp Arroyo Grande

Reggae Music featuring Ossie Dellimore & The High Tribe Band

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SLOFunny Comedy JamboreeGrover Beach WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11

Siempre Selena (Selena Tribute Band)

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SLOFunny Comedy Jamboree - Los Osos

THURSDAY,

WHEN DEEP CALLS TO DEEP JOURNEYS OF THE SOUL FOR A CULTURE IN CRISIS

The challenges of our times are demanding more than just political reforms. They are compelling us towards journeys of the soul that will ask not only for great courage, but new understandings of power and inclusive leadership, new mythologies of collective heroism, more diverse communities and organizational models that are more sustainable ecosystems than hierarchical power pyramids. We invite you to engage with contemporary issues and the latest in depth psychological thinking and practices, join interactive learning sessions on the cutting edge of practice and theory, and explore all that Pacifica Graduate Institute has to offer for your personal and professional journey.

Regional growth

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

Between now and mid-October, locals can give their two cents on a multi-year economic plan for the Central Coast designed to bring in and support a wide range of industries throughout the region.

The plan was developed by the Regional Economic Action Coalition (REACH), a nonprofit organization with the goal of growing economic prosperity in the Central Coast region, said REACH Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Julie Sinton Pruniski.

“We work with both the public and private sectors—we are really helping bring those together and doing a lot of regional collaboration on regional issues,” Sinton Pruniski said. REACH launched in 2019 in the wake of the plan at the time to close Diablo Canyon, one of the region’s largest employers, because regional public, private, and nonprofit leaders realized the importance of coming together and being more proactive about developing economic and job opportunities, according to REACH. The nonprofit’s role is to lead collaboration on regional initiatives, bring partners together, and connect local jurisdictions to state and federal resources.

On Sept. 12, REACH went before both the Santa Barbara and SLO county boards of supervisors with a regional economic strategy and received unanimous support from both counties. Central Coast residents can now access the regional economic plan and provide public comment until Oct. 12.

“Every strategy is future-focused, inclusive, equitable, [sustainable], and resilient from an economic perspective,” she said. “The plan that went before the county boards is really the first ever joint economic strategy, a five-year plan for economic development on the Central Coast.”

A 30-person strategy committee from sectors across the counties helped create the goals, strategies, and actions. REACH and the committee conducted and interfaced with more than 400 stakeholders from both counties to gather information for what a regional economic plan could look like, Sinton Pruniski said.

“There’s an overarching structure with a vision statement: The Central Coast is a dynamic region where current and future generations thrive and businesses innovate and excel,” she said.

Fri., Nov. 3, 2023 @ SLO Brew Rock

Readers Choice voting: October 5–16, 2023 NewTimesSLO.com · My805Tix.com

REACH identified four target industries: agricultural technology, clean technology and renewable energy, aerospace defense and precision manufacturing, and technology as a whole, Sinton Pruniski said. Within the strategy, there are three categories of goals—people, innovation, and place—that focus on enhancing economic growth.

The people element of the plan focuses on the talent side of economic development and

looking for ways to develop workforce pathways, train current residents, and expose youth to local jobs, Sinton Pruniski said. This goal highlights the importance of wraparound services like child care, broadband, public transit, and access to health care, which can often help keep people in the area, she said.

“The other is fostering a regional innovation network. How do we work together across the two counties to help innovative businesses operate here? Start-ups grow and outgrow their space; how do we work with them to find a new site and keep them on the Central Coast?” Sinton Pruniski said. “The third one is around ‘place’ and figuring out how to address the housing challenges and working together as a region to keep people here.”

REACH Director of Communications Sally Taylor added that during initial stakeholder conversations, the majority of the participants cited the same challenges over and over again.

“We have a hard time finding the talent we need because of the housing costs,” Taylor said. “Affordability is a big barrier [for] start-ups trying to grow here. We have a good ecosystem for getting them going, but we need to be here to help them mature and get bigger.”

The strategy addresses these issues broadly because it could help unlock sources of federal and state money, as these government funding agencies tend to emphasize regionalism, she said. It also focuses on ways the counties can work together, play off each other’s strengths, and work together to make something better.

“We want all the range of needs to create a strong, regional economy to be covered under this plan, and this will allow different groups, jurisdictions to pursue sources of funding to address those—whether it’s broadband, child care—it really is quite a broad strategy to cover the elements we need to create opportunities for the people that live here,” Taylor said.

For more information and to read the economic strategy, visit reachcentralcoast.org/ceds.

Highlight

• C.A.R.E.4Paws is inviting Santa Barbara County residents and their four-legged friends to don their walking shoes for its second annual Walk Against Abuse to help raise funds and awareness for Safe Haven, a program that supports pet families exposed to domestic violence. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 2, families can walk through Elings Park—1430 Las Positas Road, Santa Barbara—and enjoy live music, food, and activities throughout the day. People can learn how Safe Haven prevents suffering and saves lives and how the community can support the program.

Promote!

Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for youth 12 and under. m

Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.

Dr. Susan Rowland PGI Core Faculty C.G. Jung Award Recipiant

Dr. Leonie H. Mattison PGI President/CEO

Dr. Thema Bryant APA President

Roland Palencia Documentarian, Filmmaker

Dr. Emily Lord-Kambitsch PGI Myth Co-Chair

Dick Russel, Author James Hillman, Soul in the World Jemma Elliot PGI Counseling Co-Chair

Dr. Bayome Akomolafe Psychologist, Philosopher, Author

Dr. Dylan Hoffman PGI Core Faculty Jungian & Archetypal Studies

DEVELOPING STRATEGIES: Central Coast nonprofit REACH worked with stakeholders in both Santa Barbara and SLO counties to develop a regional economic strategy. The nonprofit held several strategy committee workshops, including in Santa Maria, and the process took about 18 months.

What do you think about the Santa Maria Japanese Community Center?

40% It’s a very passionate group of people; I’m pleased they’re finally getting a space. 40% I think what they’re doing is important. I can’t wait to see how it expands in the future.

20% I’m glad they’re preserving Japanese History in Santa Maria.

0% We have a Japanese Community Center in Santa Maria?

5 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

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A sanctuary in full

The Chumash marine sanctuary should fill in the protection gap between the Channel Islands and Monterey

BY ANDREW CHRISTIE

Ten years ago, when the Sierra Club joined with marine sanctuary advocates in advocating for the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, we were all very clear: There is a “doughnut hole” in California’s marine sanctuaries. The Channel Islands sanctuary covers that environmental gem off the Santa Barbara Channel; the Monterey Bay sanctuary reaches down to Cambria. Adjacent to its northern border, the contiguous Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank sanctuaries stretch all the way to Mendocino. This leaves San Luis Obispo County and northern Santa Barbara County as targets for new offshore drilling and very bad ideas like the proposal to pipe toxic agricultural wastewater from the San Joaquin Valley into Estero Bay. The Chumash sanctuary would close the gap and remove that target.

As you may have heard, last month, eight years after accepting the nomination from the Chumash, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released its plan to establish the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary off the Central Coast of California … almost.

There’s something missing in NOAA’s agencypreferred alternative version of the map that was submitted with the sanctuary nomination. The initial boundary alternative would fill the gap between Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and would protect 7,573 square miles of ocean. But the agency’s preferred boundary includes a cut-out of San Luis Obispo County waters of approximately 750 square miles between Cambria and Montaña de Oro and reduces the total boundary by nearly 2,000 square miles.

The problem: The shipping and undersea cables serving the future offshore wind farm will pass through that area, and NOAA does not want to regulate that industrial development in a national marine sanctuary.

And the Salinan tribe also includes that coastal area as part of its historic lands, and its members have let it be known they would not appreciate a marine sanctuary there dedicated to Native American cultural heritage that omits their name.

The solution: NOAA’s concern is basically the timing—i.e., if the area is designated as a marine sanctuary and then the cable and shipping infrastructure are allowed, that sets a precedent. But if the cables are laid and then the marine sanctuary is declared, no problem. National marine sanctuaries include any number of preexisting features that would not have been allowed if they were proposed to be constructed after the marine sanctuary was created. (Case in point: The proposed Gaviota Coast extension for the Chumash sanctuary includes the existing oil pipelines from the offshore rigs to the onshore processing plant.) Wind energy companies must submit maps of their cable routes for federal certification. Once the routes are certified, the cables become a preexisting fait accompli, and the marine sanctuary could then include the Point Buchon to Cambria region, which could also be designated as a special treatment area of the sanctuary, with a name acceptable to the Salinans.

Not a solution to anything: No marine sanctuary from Cambria to Montaña de Oro.

And the problem is not just screwing up the goal of having unbroken national marine sanctuary protections from the Channel Islands to Mendocino. The problem, if that gap is not closed, will be how severely sanctuary protections will be curtailed along the length of the California coast and beyond if those waters are not subject to the regulations proposed for this sanctuary. That’s because migratory species pass through the 2,000 square miles of ocean between Cambria and Montaña de Oro. In that gap, per the Audubon Society’s annual Morro Bay count, are found more than 8,000 birds from 20 species. White sharks

and bluefin tuna, sea lions and elephant seals, leatherback turtles and whales, sea otters, blackfooted albatross, and many more pass through, and maps of their migration density tell the tale: The area that NOAA is proposing to take a pass on is the area of their highest concentration.

Dr. Stephen Palumbi is engaged in the effort to create an environmental baseline for the wind energy cable corridor and the new sanctuary. He notes: “A huge gap between sanctuaries will be an industrial corridor that marine life will have to jump. There will be no crosswalks for them. And the sanctuary system will lose many of its tools to preserve and protect this vast trove of ocean wildlife.”

As NOAA puts it, if a marine sanctuary is not designated, “New oil and gas development could occur in federal waters if the relevant federal agencies authorized such development. ... Commercial fishing, recreational, homeland security, and other vessels would not be subject to the discharge prohibitions in the proposed sanctuary regulations.”

State Sen. John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) agrees, writing, “Whatever the pathway, I implore NOAA to find a creative solution to ensure the protection of an unfragmented stretch of the Pacific Ocean between the Monterey Bay and Channel Island sanctuaries, while also enabling the successful implementation of offshore wind energy.”

That’s currently not the plan for 2,000 square miles of ocean proposed to be deleted from the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary. If you’re not down with the gap plan, let NOAA know at act.sierraclub.org/actions/ SantaLucia?actionId=AR0393640. m

Andrew Christie is the executive director of the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club. Send a response for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.

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We’re well along on a better path

Although neither a birder nor an ornithologist, I am a fan of The Canary opinion column in the Santa Maria Sun. It’s snappy and entertaining. But recently it bordered on the bird-brained (Aug. 24, “On the record”).

This bird looks and sounds yellow. It ought not to quake and quiver. Refuse to be caged by ExxonMobil’s naked threats to sue the county. Buck up, bird up, do the right thing and fly free.

Recall 2015 when over 100,000 gallons of Exxon oil spilled at Gaviota. In late August, our Board of Supervisors met to decide, in effect, if Exxon could reopen the same corroded and still uninspected pipeline.

Supervisor Steve Lavagnino asked a question, intended to be a zinger, of all opposing the reopening, “Do you drive a car using gasoline or an EV that rides on asphalt roads?” Actually, that’s not a serious or pertinent question.

We’ve built a world that depends on burning fossil fuels and now it requires a major renovation. We have plenty of oil and always will. We are weaning ourselves off of it in favor of clean and renewable fuels. Regardless of Exxon’s insatiable greed, we are well along on this better path now.

Most remaining fossil fuels must remain in the ground if the world is to remain livable and if we, children, canaries, and angry poodles are to survive and thrive together.

Seth Steiner Los Alamos

It sounds like the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office is taking the four cities it contracts with for a ride!

Must be nice to be able to increase the rates that cities pay for through their respective contracts but not really give them the data they’re asking for.

This issue first came up as part of a short-term contract negotiation for the 2022-23 fiscal year.

Buellton, Carpinteria, Goleta, and Solvang were all a little miffed that the cost for services increased and pledged to get their questions answered and concerns addressed as part of the negotiations for the long-term contract starting in 2023.

But that’s not what happened. Instead, according to information presented during a Sept. 25 Solvang City Council meeting, the Sheriff’s Office again increased the cost of the city’s contract—from $2.3 million for 2022-23 to $2.8 million for 2023-24—without providing answers to Solvang’s burning desire to understand exactly what they were getting for that cost.

“We asked for some performance metrics. We asked for documentation, and we were met with resistance,” Solvang City Attorney David Fleishman said. “The sheriff’s department said they could not provide us with the kind of statistics we were looking for. And if they could, it would be an additional charge. So it’s problematic.”

Extremely. The Sheriff’s Office should actually be required to provide those stats as part of the contract! It’s crazy that they don’t and aren’t and won’t. Ridiculous. Send them a Public Records Act request!

In addition, according to Fleishman, the Sheriff’s Office threw a last minute “sucker punch to the gut” into the contract for 2023-27: Solvang is also required to pay for any unforseen mid-contract salary increases.

Another issue (there’s a lot of issues) is that if Solvang didn’t approve the new contract, the law enforcement presence in the city could have easily reduced to nothing by the end of September.

Councilmember Claudia Orona called the contract “a scam.” And it does sound very scammy. It sounds like the Sheriff’s Office knows Solvang can’t do anything to hold its feet to the fire and neither can the other cities.

“We don’t have much of a choice,” she added. “We cannot gamble with public safety, so we have to approve the contract.”

Councilmember Elizabeth Orona—no relation to the other Orona—said that it’s exposing the “worst-case scenario” of negotiating with an entity that has a monopoly.

“This is taxpayer money. The lack of transparency is incredibly concerning,” she said. It is concerning. And even more so because the cities don’t really have a choice. They are “between a rock and a hard place,” as Councilmember Robert Clarke said.

Either approve the contract or start a police department of your own. And police departments don’t just manifest themselves in a week. That takes time and money, which is why the cities contract with the Sheriff’s Office in the first place. However, the city of Guadalupe has managed to figure out how to staff its own law enforcement department.

If that little town, which only recently pulled itself out of the red, can figure it out, Solvang can certainly do the same. It might just take more elbow grease than the city is willing to put in. m

The Canary thinks the Sheriff’s Office is scammy. Send complaints to

Hot Stuff

ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

ARTISTIC SELF ART STUDIO For adults ages 50 and over. Bring your art projects and supplies and work on them in a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere with other artists. This is a drop-in program. Wednesdays, 9-10 a.m. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925-0951. Elwin Mussell

Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE

CLASSES 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.

CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: MACRAME

BRACELETS Create a beautiful macrame bracelet to keep or give away. All materials will be provided at this free workshop. Registration is required, for patrons 18 and older. Oct. 3 , 12-2 p.m. Free.

805-925-0994. 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, everybodycandance.webs.com/.

LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE:

WEST COAST SWING Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45 p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m.

805-344-1630. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.

TRIBAL TRADITION

The 26th annual Chumash Intertribal Powwow will be held on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 1, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., in Santa Ynez, on the corner of Meadowvale Road and Highway 246. The event features drumming and dancing competitions, arts and crafts vendors, food booths, and more. Admission is $5. Parking is free. To find out more, visit chumash.gov/powwow.

—Caleb

Deadline

MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

Santa Maria will join communities across the globe to screen the finalists in the 26th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival. Audience members will enjoy 10 outstanding international short films and then vote for their favorite film and actor. The worldwide audience determines the ultimate victor. Oct. 1 , 2-4 p.m., Oct. 6 5:30-7:30 p.m. and Oct. 7 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SATURDAY CRAFTERNOON: LEAFSTAMPED TOTE BAGS Use real leaves and paint to add some “spice” to a canvas tote bag, then use it to carry your pumpkin snacks and cozy fall books all season long. All materials will be provided and registration is required, for patrons 18 and older. Sept. 30 2:30 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

HOW TO MAKE A HORROR FLICK: TALK

BY SARA CALDWELL Begins with a brief retrospective of the last 50 years of independent horror, including how trends have shifted, along with attitudes and technology. Participants will look at some examples of highly successful low-budget horror films and the pros and cons of indie filmmaking, plus tips. Oct. 8 5-7 p.m.

Free. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com.

Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE An installation by Northridge-based artist Elizabeth Criss. Through Feb. 1, 2024 wildlingmuseum.org.

Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, 805-688-1082.

SEDGWICK RESERVE: A CONSERVATION

STORY Through Oct. 16 Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, 805-688-1082, wildlingmuseum.org.

SURF TO SUMMIT Three award winning pastel artists display their landscapes, ranging from expressive energy, serenity and grandeur to interpretative realism. Oct. 1 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and MondaysSundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 805688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. WOODLANDS Award-winning artists Deborah Breedon, Kris Buck, and Chuck Klein present their fall exhibition. MondaysSundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Sept. gallerylosolivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos, 805-688-7517.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

ANNUAL FALL ART SHOW Visitors to the gallery will vote for their favorite pieces throughout the month of October. Cash prizes will given for first second, and third place. The winners will be announced at a reception on Aug. 4 from 2 to 4 p.m. Public is welcome. Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Oct. 29 Free. 805-737-1129. lompocart.org. Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc.

FALL ART COMPETITION The Lompoc Valley Art Association is sponsoring its annual Fall Art Show competition, to take place at the Cypress Gallery in October, to be judged by community voting. Cash prizes awarded. Details in the show prospectus. Mondays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. through Oct. 14 Entry fee: $25. 805-7371129. lompocart.org/. Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AUTUMN MARKET Gifts Galore presents Autumn Market at Birchwood Garden. Join 35 local vendors, selling accessories, candles, clothes, cosmetics, food, jewelry, and more available to purchase. Oct. 7 Free admission. Birchwood Garden Barn &

Home, 323 West Tefft Street, Nipomo. BIG LIBRARY BOOK SALE The Grover Beach Community Library’s last sale of the year offers a wide selection of current fiction, non-fiction, research, and a beautiful selection of coffee table books. It is a perfect time to pick up holiday gifts. Cash only. Oct. 7 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free to attend. 805-481-4131. GroverBeachLibrary. org. Grover Beach Community Library, 240 N 9th St., Grover Beach.

CENTRAL COAST ENTERTAINMENT

EXPO The Central Coast Film Society hosts a full day of free workshops with local film industry professionals, and the Central Coast Screening of the documentary Cecil B. DeMille: American Epic. Following the daytime Expo is an evening event at 6:00PM. Tickets for evening event; $35-$45 Oct. 7 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free; $35-$45 for evening event. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ central-coast-entertainment-expo/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP WITH KATHY MILLER Central Coast Watercolor Society presents award-winning artist Kathy Miller who will demonstrate her free-flowing painterly style. Attendees will try out her techniques using her photos or their own. Go to CCWS website to register for the workshop. Fee includes morning snacks and lunch. Oct. 3 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and Oct. 4 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $215. ccwsart.com/kathy-miller-workshop. Nipomo Community Presbyterian Church, 1235 N Thompson Rd., Arroyo Grande, 805-219-0133.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES

Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus

exposure to Los Angeles talent agents. All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam

Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

ART FOR TEENS A four-week, after-school art class: “All About Color,” for teens (ages 13-18). Students will create color wheels, learn about color theory and how to mix pigments, experiment with limited color palettes, and more. A perfect autumn class for young artists. All materials included. Tuesdays, 4-5:30 p.m. through Oct. 24 $120. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo, 702-335-0730.

ART IN THE GARDEN Enjoy fine art, food, and music during the three-day event, which includes a special opening night champagne reception on Oct. 6. Oct. 6 5-7 p.m., Oct. 7 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Oct. 8 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-541-1400. slobg. org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART

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

BEGINNING WATERCOLOR WITH JAN

FRENCH Be introduced to the personality and potential of this tricky but dynamic painting medium. For beginners or watercolor artists who would like to “loosen up.” Bring your own materials; list provided and supplies available at Art Central. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Sept. 28 $120 for four classes. janfrench.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-747-4200. BRUSHSTROKES BY THE GREENS: AN

EVENING OF PAINTING WITH DREW

DAVIS An acrylic painting workshop set against the backdrop of the golf course. Includes all supplies and a complimentary drink. Additional drinks and food available for purchase. Oct. 3 5-7 p.m. my805tix. com. Dairy Creek Golf Course, 2990 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo, 805-782-8060.

CCCT LIVE IMPROV COMEDY SHOW

Improvisors will be creating an entirely on the spot, live comedy show using audience suggestions. This unique form of fast-paced, high energy improv comedy will leave you at the edge of your seat, laughing, of course. Sept. 28 , 6-8 p.m. $10. SLO Wine and Beer Company, 3536 S. Higuera St., suite 250, San Luis Obispo, 805-544-9463, slowineandbeerco.com.

CENART AFTER DARK: CENTURY 21

HOMETOWN REALTY An exhibit of pastel paintings by Bobbye West Thompson, member of the Central Coast Pastel Society (3CPS). Meet the artist during a free reception on July 7, from 5 to 8 p.m. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. 805-235-4877. slocountyarts.org. Century 21 Hometown Realty, 599 Higuera St, Ste A, San Luis Obispo.

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

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

COMEDY NIGHT Professional comedy show featuring local and touring comics. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. First Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. $5. 805540-8300. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo, bangthedrumbrewery.com.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Looking for a fun date night? Head to Anam Cre Pottery

Wiseblood

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SANTA YNEZ BAND OF CHUMASH INDIANS

Times and the Sun now share their community listings for a complete Central Coast calendar running from SLO County through northern Santa Barbara County. Submit events online by logging in with your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account at newtimesslo.com. You may also email calendar@newtimesslo.com.

is one week before the issue date on Thursdays. Submissions are subject to editing and approval.

Studio and play with clay. Couples will learn how to throw a pot on the wheel and make a cheeseboard. Fridays, Saturdays, 6-8 p.m. $140. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

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

FREE DOCENT TOURS Gain a deeper understanding of the artwork on view with SLOMA’s new docent tours. Every Saturday, join trained guides for interactive and engaging tours of SLOMA’s current exhibitions. ongoing, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/visit/ tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

IMPROV AND STAND-UP SHOW Join the talented cast of CCCT for a night of laughs with this live Improv comedy and standup show. Sit back and enjoy the show with a cool glass of beer or wine from the bar and a meal from Wicked Garden food truck. Oct. 5 6-8 p.m. $10. SLO Wine and Beer Company, 3536 S. Higuera St., suite 250, San Luis Obispo, 805-544-9463, slowineandbeerco.com.

INTERMEDIATE OIL PAINTING: ADULT

ART CLASS This class is for students who may have tried oil painting in the past but are looking to advance their skill levels. Color theory and proportion study will be a focus in the class. Mondays, 2-5 p.m. $30 per student or $75 for 3 classes. 805747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INTRO TO OIL PAINTING WITH SPENCER

COLLINS The perfect class for those wanting to try oil painting for the first time. Guests discuss color theory, layering paint, and how to use various media. For ages 16 and over. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $30 per class or $100 for 4 classes. 805747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART

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

JOHN BARRETT John Barrett was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1952 and grew up in Manhattan Beach, California. He began pursuing his career as an artist in the late 1960s influenced by his great-grandfather, a painter. Through Nov. 27, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/

john-barrett/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

KIDS POTTERY CLASSES Enjoy making animal sculptures, bowls, plates, etc. Please arrive on time, not early, as venue uses the transition time between classes to sanitize. Designed to sign up on a weekly basis. Thursdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. 805-441-8257.

Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.

LESLIE SUTCLIFFE This installation consists of 96 panels, any number of which can be assembled and reassembled in a multitude of ways. Initially, the individual panels were inspired by the rich visual imagery in Italo Calvino’s Six Memos for the Next Millennium. Oct. 6 -Jan. 29 Free. 805-5438562. sloma.org/exhibition/mementos-of-

six-millennia/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

NUNSENSE The five nuns from Little Sisters of Hoboken put on a fundraiser to bury sisters accidentally poisoned by the convent cook, Sister Julia, Child of God. Fortunately, the remaining sisters all have hidden talents that bring merriment to this show full of “nun” puns. ThursdaysSaturdays, 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through Oct. 15 $20-$45. 805-786-2440. slorep.org/shows/ nunsense-a-musical-comedy/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

OPEN MIC COMEDY Sign-ups at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. Mondays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-540-8300. saintsbarrel. com/event-calendar. Saints Barrel Wine Bar, 1021 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

OUTSIDE THE BOX Craftmakers presents Outside the Box, an exhibition of fine craft, including clay masks, encaustics, collages, fabric, sculpture, and more. Craftmakers is an artist group of the Central Coast Artists Collective. Oct. 6 - Nov. 27 Free. 805-7474200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

PARENT-CHILD POTTERY CLASS Make lasting memories with clay together as a family. For ages 6 and over. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon $70. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com).

Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.

POTTERY: BEGINNING WHEEL CLASS

This series is a great intro to the pottery wheel. Students learn to throw various shapes, surface decorate, and glaze. Clay and firing included with admission. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $180. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

REDEMPTIVELY GROTESQUE FILM

SERIES This Fall, Cal Poly Professor Paul Marchbanks will usher participants through a series of “Redemptively Grotesque” films at the San Luis Obispo Library; stories that will juxtapose human suffering and the prospect of transcendent hope. See Library’s Event Calendar for more information about the films. Sept. 29 6-8 p.m. Free. 805-7815991. slolibrary.org. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

SCAB PICKER: MOLLY SEGAL Los Angeles-based painter Molly Segal’s surreal largescale watercolors explore a world with finite resources, both natural and emotional, where we find ourselves grappling with insatiable needs and limited provisions. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Oct. 13 Free. 805-5463202. cuesta.edu/student/campuslife/ artgallery/index.html. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

SCULPTURE CLASS WITH ROD PEREZ

This weekly sculpture drop-in class gives an opportunity for potters to take on new projects and learn new techniques relating to sculptural work. Additionally, every first Friday of the month, a new project will be taught by Rod Perez for beginners. Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SENIOR CLAY CLASS Offered to the senior community as an outlet to explore the beauty of clay. For ages 60 and over. Caretakers welcome for an additional $20. Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon $40. anamcre.com.

Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SEWING FELT ANIMALS FOR AGES 12-16

Four-week course for teenagers who want to learn how to sew. Students will learn the basics of hand-sewing and create cute felt animals (an owl or fox). All materials included. Oct. 4 , 1-2:30 p.m. $100. 702-3350730. nestinghawkshop.com/workshopsand-lessons. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

FREE RIDE

The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens Club presents its next dance concert, Rocking with Riptide: ’60s and ’70s, at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center on Sunday, Oct. 8, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Live music will be provided by the Riptide Big Band during the free event, funded by the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department. Visit riptidebb.com for more info. The Elwin Mussell Senior Center is located at 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria. —C.W.

METAL ART BY TRUDI GILLIAM Gilliam creates her sculptures using copper, brass, nickel/silver, and found objects. This new series of whales and birds uses copper and sea glass. ongoing 805-772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

THE REBOOT: STORYTELLING

REIMAGINED (HOT MESS) A live story show in Top Dog’s lush garden theater under the stars with seasoned tellers and first-timers sharing true personal stories around this month’s theme, “HOT MESS.” Not a comedy show, but often hysterical; “always magical.” Dress warm, and come early for first-come seating. Sept. 29, 7-9:15 p.m. Free. 805-772-9225. facebook. com/the.reboot4u. Top Dog Coffee Bar, 857 Main St., Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

FIRST SATURDAY: WINE, ART, AND MUSIC Studios on the Park celebrates

First Saturdays, a fun tradition of art, wine, and live music-filled evenings at the start of each month. Enjoy meeting artists and seeing rotating exhibitions while enjoying live music and wine from one of the venue’s winery partners. First Saturday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Free; $10 for wine. 805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

GRAND OPENING AND RIBBON

SEWING FOR KIDS

Four-week beginner sewing course for kids ages 8-11. Students will learn the fundamentals of hand sewing, and create multiple felt pictures that can be used in a variety of ways. This class is for children who can use a needle responsibly. Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. through Oct. 25 $100. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo, 702-335-0730.

SEWING FOR TEENS Four-week beginner sewing course for teens and pre-teens who want to learn to sew. Students will learn the fundamentals of hand sewing and create one cute felt animal (owl or fox). Small group class for plenty of one-on-one time. All materials included. Wednesdays, 2-3:30 p.m. through Oct. 25 $120. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo, 702-335-0730.

SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN MIC NIGHT Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-2337, libertinebrewing.com.

SLO DRAWZ: OPEN FIGURE DRAWING

GROUP Improve your drawing skills while also building a community of supportive creatives with live models. This is not a guided class, please bring your own materials. To sign up, email chantellegoldthwaite@gmail.com. Every other Monday, 5-7 p.m. and Every other Thursday, 5-7 p.m. through Dec. 31 $20 per session; or $60 for a month pass. 805-747-4200. instagram.com/slodrawz/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY SHOW AT DAIRY

CREEK Headliner Matt Knudsen. Hosted by Allison Weber. With Quincy Weekly, Key Lewis. Featuring John DiResta. Sept. 29 6:30 & 9 p.m. my805tix.com. Dairy Creek Golf Course, 2990 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo, 805-782-8060.

STAND-UP COMEDY SHOWCASE CCCT’s

Stand-Up Comedy class students will be performing their material at Linnaea’s. Get ready to laugh along with these comics who have been perfecting their acts with instructor Danielle Durbin. Oct. 7 6-8 p.m. $10. Linnaea’s Cafe, 1110 Garden St., San Luis Obispo, 805-541-5888, linnaeas.com/.

TINY POTTERS: WISE ONES AND WEE ONES PAINT For ages 4 to 6. Kids have the option to paint animals and other subjects. Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $30. anamcre. com/booking. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

VANESSA WALLACE-GONZALES

Wallace-Gonzales is a Black-Latinx and Santa Barbara-based artist who uses elements of mythology to explore

her identity and personal experiences. Through Oct. 2, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/vanessawallace-gonzales/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING

WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors. To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Wednesdays, 1:303:30 p.m. $35. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo. com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BRUSHSTROKES 2023 The Painters

Group SLO presents its annual juried exhibition Brushstrokes, revived postpandemic, featuring a wide variety of painting mediums and styles. Through Nov. 6 Free. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, 805-772-2504, artcentermorrobay.org.

COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Jewett’s work is also on display at Nautical Bean in Laguna shopping center during February. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559-799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

FINE ART FUSED GLASS BY LINDA

HILL Linda Hill is a fused glass artist living and working in Los Osos. Linda has been working at her craft for more than 20 years and she loves color, patterns, shapes, and creating fused glass art. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Sept. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART PAINTINGS BY ATUL PANDE

In Atul’s Own Words: “I am an intuitive, self-taught acrylic painter influenced by post-WWII expressionism who layers vivid colors and shapes, informed by my Indian upbringing and scientific, medical background, to create textured, engaging works that organically evolve through my processes.” Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART WATERCOLOR GROUP SHOW: THE COLOR OF WATER Fall-weather

countryscapes and seascapes, still-life settings, and birds and wildlife scenes are the focus for this show to highlight the beauty of artwork done in watercolors. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 30 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART WATERCOLORS BY NANCY

JENSEN Nancy Jensen celebrates the simple joys of living on the central coast of California. In her watercolor paintings, she honors the fruits of the harvest in local vineyards, the springtime surprises of bright wildflowers, and blooming gardens and the Central Coast as a whole. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Sept. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART WIRE WRAPPED JEWELRY BY AMALIA THOMAS Thomas: “As a creative soul who drew, painted, and more before raising a family on the Central Coast, I discovered wire wrapping art. I use nickel-free copper and sterling silver wire to handcraft wearable pieces that feature local stones, shells, glass, and more.” Gallery open daily. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. 805772-9095. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE

PRESENTS FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY

GROUP SHOW: WILD AUTUMN A group photography show with Alice Cahill, Michael Johnston, Jessica Weiss, Lynda Roeller, and Liz Linzmeier. These wonderful photograpers will be showcasing their amazing photographs of the wild animals, horses, seals, otters, whales, birds, and autumn mood scenes that our visitors love. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Sept. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GIFTY UNDER FIFTY ALL YEAR ROUND Costa Gallery is gearing up for the holiday season. Check out a seasonal collection of art. Thursdays-Sundays. through Dec. 31 Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos, 559-799-9632.

CUTTING Please join ArtSocial 805 for the grand opening and ribbon cutting of their Creative Campus. There will be a tour of the studio, a chance to watch demonstrations, learn about classes and workshop offerings, and see how you can become a CreativeClub member. Oct. 2 , 1-6 p.m. Free. 805-400-9107. artsocial805. com. ArtSocial 805 Creative Campus, 3340 Ramada Drive, suite 2C, Paso Robles.

OCTOBER’S FIRST SATURDAY: WINE, ART, AND MUSIC Enjoy art from the second month of our “A Cut Above” exhibit while sipping wines donated by Asuncion Ridge and hear music by Marco Patson. Oct. 7 6-9 p.m. Free; $10 wine. 805-2389800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

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.

ADULTING 101: LIFE SKILLS FOR THE 21ST CENTURY A series of fun and workshops designed for emerging adults ages 16-21. Participants will learn valuable skills to support them in their adult and workforce preparedness through a set of five modules. Oct. 3, 3:30 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, 805-937-9750.

BOUNCING BABY STORY TIME Explore pre-literacy skills through music, movement, and visual stimulation, and promote a healthy bond between baby and caregiver. Learn, connect, and grow with other babies and caregivers. For 0-12 months. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. through Oct. 4 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons. org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 7 p.m. Free. 805-934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria.

FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. 805-937-9750. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.

FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 14

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.

PRESCHOOL PLAY TIME Preschoolers and their caregivers are welcome to play and socialize with kids similar in age. Children will have the opportunity to engage in imaginative play, sharing, and making friends. For ages 3-5. Oct. 2 11 a.m. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA MARIA FAMILY FESTIVAL: SANTA MARIA VALLEY YOUTH AND FAMILY CENTER’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

An event to commemorate SMVYFC’s 50th anniversary. This community celebration will include delicious food, music, games, and fun activities fit for all ages. Oct. 1 , 1-4 p.m. Free. fsacares.org/events/smvyfc50th/. Machado Plaza, 105 N. Lincoln St., Santa Maria, 805-928-1707.

WORLD SPACE WEEK PRESCHOOL PACK

Celebrate World Space Week by learning more about space and trying some spacethemed activities. For ages 3-5. Supported in whole or part by the Orcutt and Los Alamos FOL at those locations, and by the SMPL Foundation at Cuyama. Oct. 7 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS Receive a blessing for yourself and your pet at this service inspired by St. Francis of Assisi’s ministry to animals. Pets should be on leash or in a carrier (or a recent photo works too). Bring a chair or blanket for your comfort. Oct. 1 3 p.m. Free. 805-5437212. ststephensslo.org. Emerson Park, 1341 Nipomo St., Nipomo.

BREAK-A-WAVE ROPING Event sponsors include Cal Poly Rodeo. Sept. 28 6 p.m. rodeoboosters.com/calendar-of-events/. Pismo Beach, Contact for details, Pismo.

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach. HERITAGE DAY Roll back the clock and experience a different era in California history. Dancers, musicians, gold miners, mountain men, and more will be available to meet. Throughout the day, presentations will be provided highlighting the re-enactors’ skills. Sept. 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults; $3 for youth. 805-929-5679. danaadobe.org. DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52 Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological.

Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. 805-547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index.

php/chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

13TH ANNUAL CENTRAL COAST CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE SHOW AND SWAP MEET Proceeds will support the SLO Noor Foundation, which provides health care for the uninsured. This is a judged motorcycle show with awards given to the best motorcycles in 14 classes; see webpage for all details. Food truck on location. Sept. 30 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $10. 805-440-4511. CentralCoastClassicMC.com.

Mountainbrook Community Church, 1775 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo.

BACKYARD HOUSES: WHAT ARE ADUS, THOWS, AND J-ADUS Learn about

the types of houses homeowners can place in their backyards and how these types of housing can work for members of their community, including seniors, renters, and family member housing (in-laws, adult children living back at home, etc.). Oct. 3 5:30-7 p.m. and Oct. 4 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. 805-215-5474. smartsharehousingsolutions.org.

SLO Guild Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

BECOME A SENIOR PEER COUNSELOR

Are you a senior interested in helping other seniors? This group is in need of counselors to provide support for older adults who are experiencing a variety of issues like grief, loneliness, and caregiver issues. Free training is online and offered at your own pace. First Monday of every month. through Dec. 4 Free. 805-547-7025. wilshirecommunityservices.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. 559-9059274. 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.

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.

LECTURE: WHEN SAN LUIS OBISPO WAS COW HEAVEN Help Marilyn Darnell and the History Center keep the interest in SLO County’s dairy history alive by attending this lecture and heeding Darnell’s call to spread the word. Oct. 6, 5:30 p.m. Free. 805-543-0638. historycenterslo.org/lecture. History Center of San Luis Obispo County, 696 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A pro-recovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. First Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

LOTERÍA NIGHTS Enjoy a game of La Lotería Mexicana, a bingo-style game with colorful and beautifully-drawn cards. With drink specials and prizes for the winners. RSVP encouraged. Thursdays, 6 p.m. Free. drinkramblingspirits.com. Rambling Spirits, 3845 S. Higuera St. (inside SLO Public Market), San Luis Obispo.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805270-3346.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA

ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

QI GONG FITNESS ONLINE Hosted by the San Luis Coastal Adult School. Gentle but powerful exercises for mind and body with instructor Gary West. Enhance your well being, improve your balance, and practice

mindfulness. 19 weeks. Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. through Dec. 13 $95. 805-549-1222. ae.slcusd.org/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SLO SKIERS MONTHLY MEETING SLO

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

SLOCO JUNIOR ROLLER DERBY

SCRIMMAGE Home scrimmage, new skater recruitment event, and a community open skate with skate rentals available. The SLOCO Junior Roller Derby team is open to children between 5 and 17 years old. No skating experience necessary. Paradise Shaved Ice will be there with food. Oct. 1 , 2-5:15 p.m. Free. slocojuniorrollerderby.com. Santa Rosa Park, Santa Rosa St., 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.

TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 805-5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN

CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Second Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are

free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

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

USYVL SAN LUIS OBISPO FALL 2023

Youth Instructional Volleyball Program for boys and girls ages 7 to 15 of all skill levels. Learn the “FUNdamentals” of volleyball in a positive and encouraging environment. Teams are determined by age, with 10-12 players each. Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. through Nov. 4 Contact for price. usyvl.org/locations/ san-luis-obispo-fall/. Johnson Park, 1020 Southwood, San Luis Obispo, 213-204-1934.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS

MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom). For information, call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654.

DINNER AND LIBATIONS FOR THE

STATION An intimate sunset event to benefit the Piedras Blancas Light Station. Enjoy pours of Harmony Cellars wine as you wander the grounds of this national treasure. With dinner and dessert by the The Pizza Trolley and live music by Kenny Taylor. Oct. 7, 4-6:30 p.m. $100 per person. 805-927-1625. piedrasblancas.org. Piedras Blancas Light Station, 15950 Cabrillo Highway, San Simeon.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 15

SHOP, SIP, AND STROLL Enjoy two delightful Thursday evenings exploring the best of Morro Bay’s Embarcadero and Downtown during the Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce’s Shop, Sip and Stroll event. Sept. 28 my805tix.com. Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce, 695 Harbor St., Morro Bay, 805-772-4467.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

CENTRAL COAST TENNIS CLASSIC

A women’s $60,000 ITF World Tennis Tour/USTA Pro Circuit event. Most of the players, some with world rankings into the top 100, come to Templeton having just played in the US Open. Sept. 28, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sept. 29, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sept. 30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Oct. 1, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets starting at $15. 805-434-9605. centralcoasttennisclassic.com/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

BEER FESTIVAL With food by the Birria Boyz, music, spotlights on local breweries, and outdoor games. Ticket includes four tastings and a custom beer glass. This is a family-friendly event. Sept. 30, 12-4 p.m. $45. 805-356-6018. guadalupesocialclub.com. Guadalupe Social Club, 945 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

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, 805-3323532, winestoneinn.com/.

FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE

CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/ club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, 805-937-8110.

SIMPLY SOURDOUGH First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, 805-937-9750.

COURTSIDE CHAMPIONS

Templeton Tennis Ranch presents the Central Coast Tennis Classic, with upcoming tennis matches held between Thursday, Sept. 28, and Sunday, Oct. 1. The full schedule of matches included in this USTA Women’s Pro Circuit event is available online at centralcoasttennisclassic. com. Call (805) 434-9605 for more details. Templeton Tennis Ranch is located at 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.

—C.W.

TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER

Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check

Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/ orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.

WINE RELEASE AND FALL PICK-UP

PARTY Five new Cottonwood Wines will be introduced to the public. Enjoy wine, music, food, and more. Members can arrive at 5 p.m. Nonmembers are welcome to arrive at 6 p.m. Oct. 7 5-9 p.m. $45 for members; $70 for nonmembers.

805-937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

HIGH TEA Come and enjoy some classic English cakes, cream tea scones, and savory treats with either a hot drink for $40 or glass of English sparkling wine from Chapel Down for $50. This will be a white tablecloth affair with classical music to relax to. First Saturday of every month, 1-3 p.m. through Oct. 7 $40-$50. 805-6869126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO

TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head

Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving

their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave, Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

CHEF’S HARVEST DINNER From plant to plate. Visit site for more info on the dinner as well as tickets. Sept. 29, 6 p.m. my805tix.com. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach. TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and nonalcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. 805-295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

SLO OKTOBERFEST Visit site for tickets and more info on this year’s Oktoberfest in San Luis Obispo. Sept. 30 1-5 p.m. my805tix.com. Madonna Expo Center, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

BYE BYE SUMMER PARTY Enjoy dancing, food, and wine. Sept. 30 5-8 p.m. 805-937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com.

Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

FOLK DANCE CLASS For adults ages 50 and up. Learn folk dances from around the world. No experience is necessary. Every third Thursday, 2-3 p.m. through Dec. 28 Free. 805-925-0951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

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.

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

LINE DANCING FUN For adults ages 50 and older. Learn basic patterns and steps to some of your favorite music. This beginner-friendly class is for anyone that enjoys dancing. Wednesdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925-0951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR

Enjoy live music most Fridays and Saturdays. Call venue or check website to find out who’s performing. Fridays, Saturdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY

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

OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. 805478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.

ROCKING WITH RIPTIDE ‘60-’70S The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens Club

MUSIC continued page 16

Hot Stuff

and Recreation and Parks present this dance concert. Also features vocalists Bob Nations and Mitch Latting. Funded by the SM Rec and Parks Dept. Oct. 8 1:30-4 p.m. Free. 775-813-5186. RiptideBB.com.

Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS: WINE, MUSIC, AND MORE Enjoy a flight of six distinctively different age-worthy wines while listening to live entertainment presented by a local band, musician, or disc jockey. Features sweet treats from Santa Maria food vendors and local artisans. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. through Nov. 19 Free. 805-937-8463. instagram.com/ cottonwoodcanyonwinery/. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

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

UKULELE JAM SESSIONS This is a drop-in program. Play melodies and many songs with other musicians. Baritone ukuleles are available to use or bring your own. Music and music strands provided. Mondays, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925-0951.

Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

GIRL NAMED TOM Three siblings unlock one harmony to unite the world as Girl Named Tom. The trio—Bekah, Joshua, and Caleb Liechty—notably made history as “the only group to ever win NBC’s The Voice .” With Special Guest J Maya. Oct. 6 7-10 p.m. Prices vary. 805-686-1789. solvangtheaterfest.org. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

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

SHAY MOULDER LIVE Come and see Shay Moulder sing and play ukulele and piano. Sept. 30 7-10 p.m. Free. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

OSSIE DELLIMORE AND THE HIGH TRIBE BAND Enjoy live reggae music. Oct. 7 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BEE GEES GOLD The ultimate salute and fan experience. The show recreates the look and sound of the Bee Gees. Sept. 28 , 7:30-10:30 p.m. $30-$40. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/bee-gees-gold/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY Enjoy some good food and karaoke. Fridays, 5-8 p.m. 805-723-5550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo.

PRINCE AGAIN: A TRIBUTE TO PRINCE Paying homage to the legend, busting out all his top numbers with perfect dance moves and stagecraft. This spot-on tribute delivers such unforgettable hits as “Little Red Corvette,” “1999,” “Kiss,” “Cream,” “Diamonds & Pearls,” “I Wanna Be Your Lover,” and the hallmark “Purple Rain.” Oct. 6, 7:30-10:30 p.m. $40-$50. 805489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/princeagain/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

THOMPSON SQUARE ACOUSTIC

DUO Acclaimed act Thompson Square performs their top hits such as “Are You

BEHIND

THE MASK

The opening reception for Outside the Box, an upcoming group exhibit at Art Central in San Luis Obispo, will be held on Friday, Oct. 6, from 5 to 7 p.m. The exhibit showcases clay masks, collages, sculptures, and other pieces created by members of Craftmakers—a group within the Central Coast Artists Collective. Visit artcentralslo.com for more info. Art Central is located at 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. —C.W.

Gonna Kiss Me Or Not?,” “If I Didn’t Have You,” and more. Oct. 1 7:30-10:30 p.m. $39-$69. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/ shows/thompson-square/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

YESTERDAY: THE LAS VEGAS BEATLES

SHOW Endorsed by none other than Sir Paul McCartney himself, Yesterday is a phenomenal tribute to the Fab Four and their timeless music. Sept. 30 7:30-10:30 p.m. $29-$55. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter. org/shows/yesterday/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

2023 FALL FOLK-N-SOAK: MUSIC, HOT SPRINGS, YOGA, AND CAMPING REUNION Attendees will be able to soak in 100 degree mineral water and camp out under the stars, enjoying the music from the pool at the hot springs. Sept. 29 - Oct. 1 my805tix.com. Franklin Hot Springs, 3015 Creston Rd., Paso Robles.

BENISE LIVE “The Prince of Spanish Guitar.” Oct. 1 , 7 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805546-8600, fremontslo.com.

DARK HORSE MUSIC COLLECTIVE PRESENTS SONGWRITERS IN THE ROUND In a songwriters’ circle format, each artist talks about their song, performs it, then “passes the mic” to the next artist. Oct. 2 5-8 p.m. my805tix.com. Barrelhouse Brewing Co. Speakeasy, 1033 Chorro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-296-1128.

DAVE MASON: ENDANGERED SPECIES

TOUR All ages welcome. Doors open at 7 p.m. Sept. 28 , 8 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805546-8600, fremontslo.com.

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

KURT VILE AND THE VIOLATORS All ages welcome. Oct. 4 , 8 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600, fremontslo.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT LIQUID GRAVITY Check social media and calendar for weekly updates. Fridays, 6-9 p.m. and Saturdays,

2-5 p.m. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, San Luis Obispo.

LIVE MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO. Enjoy live music by local favorites. Wine available by the flight, glass, or bottle. Thursdays-Saturdays, 6-9 p.m. Ragtag Wine Co., 779 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-0774, ragtagwineco.com.

LIVE MUSIC FROM GUITAR WIZ BILLY

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

MOON HOOCH For ages 18 and over. Sept. 30 8 p.m. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843, slobrew.com.

ROOSEVELT LIVE All ages welcome. Discovery Zone will open the show. Sept. 30 8 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-5468600, fremontslo.com.

SUNDAY MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO.

Enjoy live music by local favorites. Wine available by the flight, glass, or bottle. Sundays, 4-7 p.m. Ragtag Wine Co., 779 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-4390774, ragtagwineco.com.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

THE PURPLE ONES A tribute to Prince. Sept. 30 8 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, 805-225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.

THE SHIVAS A Portland-based rock group. Oct. 1 , 7:30 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, 805-225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/.

UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY: ZONGO

ALL-STARS Presented by Estero Bay Kindness Coalition and South Bay Community Center. Oct. 1 , 2 p.m. my805tix.com. South Bay Community Center, 2180 Palisades Ave., Los Osos.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

ALICE IN CHAINS With special guest Royal Thunder. Oct. 7 Vina Robles Amphitheatre, 3800 Mill Rd., Paso Robles, 805-286-3680, vinaroblesamphitheatre.com. m

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

ARTS BRIEFS

Temple Beth El in Santa Maria presents concert with violinist Brynn Albanese

Cambria-based concert violinist Brynn Albanese will perform at Temple Beth El in Santa Maria on Sunday, Oct. 8, at 3 p.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Temple. Admission is $18 in advance or $25 at the door (cash and checks will be accepted at the door, but not credit or debit cards).

Doors will open at 2:30 p.m. with a dessert reception and a meet-and-greet with Alabanese, who has served as a soloist and concertmaster for multiple music organizations over the years. Albanese is also widely known as the founder and creator of Cambria Concerts Unplugged, a Cambria-based concert series.

During the pandemic, Albanese created a one-woman show, with backing tracks and recordings of herself and fellow musicians performing in the living room of her Cambria home.

To find out more about Albanese, visit brynnalbanese.com.

Temple Beth El is located at 1501 E. Alvin Ave., Santa Maria

39th annual Central Coast Writers’ Conference offers several workshops, highlights local authors

Authors, bloggers, screenwriters, and other writers in various fields—whether they’re established or aspiring— are invited to attend the 39th annual Central Coast Writers’ Conference, an upcoming one-day expo of writing workshops.

The goal of the event is to “provide a nurturing yet challenging environment for creatives to take their craft to the next level,” according to Matthew Green, director of community engagement at Cuesta College’s San Luis Obispo campus, where the conference will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“With insights from industry leaders across many genres and channels, anyone from aspiring beginners to seasoned professionals will walk away with practical, tangible skills to further their creative goals,” Green said in press materials.

Admission to attend the conference is $249 in advance or $299 on-site and includes access to the event’s full slate of activities as well as breakfast and lunch. This year’s conference will include 18 panels that cover a wide range of writing topics, led by more than 50 featured writing experts.

Topics during the workshops will include book marketing strategies, writing for kids, artificial intelligence, and more. Attendees of the conference will also have the opportunity to engage with more than a dozen local and bestselling authors during interactive Q-and-A sessions.

To find out more about the 39th annual Central Coast Writers’ Conference, visit cuesta.edu. For registration assistance, email communityprograms@cuesta.edu. m

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

Back in time

The Lost City Celebration, commemorating the centennial of The Ten Commandments, kicks off on Oct. 6 at Edwards Barn in Nipomo, 1095 Pomeroy Road, with a VIP dinner. On Oct. 7, the centennial will be honored during the Central Coast Entertainment Expo at the Clark Center for the Performing Arts in Arroyo Grande, featuring a panel discussing the “Lost City of DeMille” and a screening of the movie with live music. The third event of the celebration takes place in downtown Guadalupe on Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The GuadalupeNipomo Dunes Center will hold tours of the film site at noon and 3 p.m. Tickets for the tour cost $40 each. For more information, visit dunescenter.org.

Central Coast Film Society President Sarah Risley said film fanatic Brosnan was scouring through tapes of old movies 40 years ago and wanted to visit the iconic town that hosted the filming.

Showtime!

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

Century of preservation

Lost film set to be part of 100-year celebration of iconic Ten Commandments film

BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

Beneath the sands of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Complex lie many things.

From geomorphic rock compacted from years of pressure to lost jewelry, the dunes have much to hide.

But not many may be able to imagine what Raiza Giorgi describes as a critical part of Guadalupe’s history: The set of Cecil B. DeMille’s The Ten Commandments

“It’s the biggest motion picture set ever to be built up to that point, [called] ‘the city of the pharaoh,’” the chief financial officer for the Central Coast Film Society said. “When the film was done, [DeMille] buried the set underneath the dunes and it became a legend until it was unearthed decades later.”

The 1923 film is celebrating its centennial this year, and the Central Coast Film Society and Lost City Celebration are partnering on a three-day event highlighting the role that lost set played in Hollywood history, the film’s impact, and the impact that the small town of Guadalupe had in its production.

“The film was written by Jeanie MacPherson and is in two parts, the Biblical Prologue and then the flashback to modern times (1920s) where the McTavish brothers look to the Old Testament as they grapple with business ethics and fight for the love of the same woman,” Giorgi said.

She noted that the biblical portion of the film was received well by audiences at the time, but the modern portion struggled—something that impacted DeMille when he remade the film in 1956. That version contained only the biblical portion and starred Charlton Heston as Moses and Yul Brynner as Pharaoh.

Attendees on Friday will have the opportunity to experience the history of the lost set’s discovery through a VIP dinner with Peter Brosnan, a documentarian, who, alongside archeologist Colleen Hamilton, uncovered the film set from the dunes starting in 2011.

“It’s pretty interesting; they kind of just walked out and found [the set] half buried in the dunes,” Risley said. “This was in 1983 and ever since then the site where the set remains semi-buried is an active archeological dig site.”

On Sunday, attendees will be able to explore those same dig sites and dunes—learning firsthand just how much the dunes were able to conceal and how the set came to be found, and experience the history of the dunes themselves.

“It’s a celebration of this iconic film that was filmed at what many a film fanatic calls this ‘Egypt of California,’” Risley said with a laugh.

Saturday attendees will experience film workshops for all ages at the Clark Center for Performing Arts in Arroyo Grande, where they can also catch a screening of the documentary that highlights the history and impact of DeMille’s film.

“Before the term blockbuster was invented, Cecil B. DeMille was arguably the first filmmaker to create large-scale film productions with The Ten Commandments,” Giorgi said. “DeMille’s religious epic was a blend of grandeur and story.”

Erika Weber, the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center’s executive director, said that the film would have never come to be without local cooperation and input.

“Nearly every resident of Guadalupe participated in the production of The Ten Commandments, and DeMille employed every local rancher to use their livestock,” Weber said.

That local input helped create a movie that, according to Weber, used what is still considered one the most impressive sets.

“The movie set is still gargantuan relative to today’s productions,” Weber said. “It is the only remaining set from Hollywood’s fundamental formation years, which set a precedent for today’s blockbuster films and popular culture.”

None of that would even be possible without the contributions of the small town of Guadalupe, according to Risley, who noted that the dunes have served as a veritable time capsule for this century-old piece of Hollywood history.

“This film does not happen without the people of Guadalupe—not only lending themselves to serve as extras and actors, but also in the way they carry on the legacy of this film,” she said. “Those people have descendants who were raised in that legacy—it is something that they feel just as much a part of as their ancestors, and they should because they are just as much part of building that legacy as The Ten Commandments is.” m

Staff Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas, from the Sun’s sister paper, New Times, is headed out to the dunes. Reach him at arosas@newtimesslo.com.

FILE PHOTO BY JENNIFER MANUELE

DEEP DISCUSSION: Cecil B. DeMille (center) planned a large-scale set with his art director Paul Iribe (right) and Francis McComas (left) to help bring his vision for The Ten Commandments to life.

BY THE SAND: Originally built in 1923, the movie set for Cecil B. DeMille’s The Ten Commandments was eventually buried under the dunes near Guadalupe. In 2011, filmmaker Peter Brosnan got permission and funding to dig in the Guadalupe Dune to find pieces of the set—many of which are on display at the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center in Guadalupe.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CECIL B. DEMILLE FOUNDATION

PHOTO

OF

UNDER THE SAND: A construction crew of nearly 1,000 people completed work on the set for The Ten Commandments, filmed 100 years ago. Central Coast residents and film buffs will commemorate the movie and the recovery of the centuryold set during a weekend-long celebration in October.

BOOK BY Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin

the New Line Cinema Film by David Berenbaum

MUSIC BY Matthew Sklar LYRICS BY Chad Beguelin

Desperate hours

Guy Nattiv (Strangers, The Flood, Skin) directs Helen Mirren as Golda Meir, Israel’s fourth prime minister, who led the country from 1969 to 1974, including through the 1973 Yom Kippur War when Egyptian and Syrian forces attacked the country. (in English, Hebrew, and Arabic; 100 min.)

Glen: This is a very intense film depicting a moment that could have meant the end of Israel. I was only 11 when the Yom Kippur War broke out, but I remember these characters from newscasts, especially Meir and Moshe Dayan (Rami Heuberger) and his distinctive eyepatch. I had no idea, however, of the intricacies and political details that unfolded during the crisis. The film did a remarkable job of tying together everything that was happening at the time, including Nixon’s Watergate scandal and the oil embargo that was the result of U.S. support to Israel. I certainly didn’t realize the acrimony that befell Meir, who in some circles was blamed for not better anticipating the coming attack and preempting it. Mirren is, as usual, amazing in the role, though I did find the facial protheses and her character’s chain smoking somewhat distracting. I also thought Liev Schreiber was amazing as Henry Kissinger. It’s a depressing historical moment but worth remembering.

GOLDA

What’s it rated? PG-13

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price

from history class. While I know who Meir was and her role as prime minister of Israel, I didn’t know a whole lot about this war or the happenings around it. I too found the prosthesis to be somewhat distracting, and I was over the focus on her cigarette habit pretty quickly; however, Mirren is a phenomenal actress, and she takes on this role on with vigor. The film looked and felt bleak, so while I can’t claim to have had a great time watching it, it was certainly compelling. The weight of every decision was not lost on Meir. In fact, each time she learned of more Israeli soldier deaths, she took note of it in a notebook. This film intersperses Meir’s interview with the Agranat Commission, which later cleared her of any wrongdoing, and alongside the depiction of the 20 days of war before the eventual peace agreement between Israel and Egypt. If you’re a fan of Mirren, this is a no-brainer to see—her performance is great.

Where’s it showing? The Palm Theatre of San Luis Obispo

Anna: Admittedly, I don’t know a lot about this slice of history except a few vague memories

EL CONDE

What’s it rated? R

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Pablo Larraín (Spencer, Jackie, Neruda) directs this comedy-horror-historical satire that reenvisions fascist Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet (Jaime Vadell) as a 250-year-old vampire who says he’s finally ready to die, much to the delight of his wife, Lucia (Gloria Münchmeyer), and his five greedy, lazy children who would like very much to cash in on the wealth he plundered from Chile during his humanrights-abuse-filled reign from 1973 to 1990.

Narrated in English by Stella Gonet, whose specific character is revealed late in the film (I won’t ruin it here—the reveal is too delicious), the film tongue-in-cheek humanizes Pinochet, who was just misunderstood and now feels he’s the victim, having had to fake his own death to avoid persecution. He’s had enough of life, at least until Carmencita (Paula Luchsinger) shows up at his isolated compound. She’s purportedly a friend of his daughter and an accountant who can sort through his papers to find his hidden riches, but in reality, she’s a Catholic nun and exorcist sent by the church.

Glen: It’s clearly a low-budget affair. Instead of seeing staged battles, we listen with Meir and her generals to radio chatter in Hebrew of soldiers under attack. It works, but it’s not as compelling or visceral as it could have been. While the war and her political travails are going on, Meir is also secretly battling cancer and undergoing intense medical treatments. Through it all, she proves herself to be a wily politician, and it’s fascinating to watch her maneuver to force the surrounding

Arabic states to recognize Israel’s legitimacy as a country, not to mention see her outmaneuver Kissinger—a very savvy diplomat. If you have an interest in history, it’s worth watching, though I can’t say whether it’s accurate or a whitewashing of the truth. The creation of Israel is certainly complicated. I will say the performances are engaging.

Anna: Schreiber’s performance is equally impressive, and watching the two actors as their characters play mental chess with each other

EXPEND4BLES

What’s it rated? R

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards RPX Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc, Fair Oaks Arroyo Grande, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande

Scott Waugh ( Act of Valor, Need for Speed ) directs this fourth installment in the Expendables franchise, a series of comedic action flicks about a group of mercenaries. Its gimmick has been to blend aging and up-and-coming action stars.

is pretty engaging. There are definitely some areas where a little more money and creativity could have helped. I get what the filmmakers were trying to convey, but there were times when those choices hurt instead of helped. Nevertheless, the film is worth a watch to see the inner workings of this politician and this war. m New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

‘I VANT TO VITAMIX YOUR HEART’: Jaime Vadell stars as fascist Chilean general and dictator Augusto Pinochet in this satirical reenvisioning that imagines Pinochet as a 250-year-old vampire, in El Conde, streaming on Netflix.

The whole thing is weird and ridiculous but also deliriously fun and oddball. It also gets pretty grisly, including some guillotining, head bashing, and heart blending in a Vitamix. (in Spanish, French, and English; mostly black and white; 110 min.)

—Glen

This time around, they’re tasked with stopping a terrorist organization headed by Suarto Rahmat (Iko Uwais), who’s trying to set off a nuclear weapon that will start a war between the U.S. and Russia. Sylvester Stallone returns as Barney Ross, team leader; Jason Statham as second in command Lee Christmas; Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson as new member Easy Day; Megan Fox as Gina, a CIA agent and Lee’s girlfriend; and Andy Garcia as CIA Agent Marsh.

As you might expect, it’s colossally dumb, with a timeline that makes zero sense. It opens in Libya with a takeover of a chemical plant that’s still going on despite a side plot to retrieve Barney’s skull ring from a bar, assemble the team, and fly

FITTY: Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson stars as Easy Day,

overseas. I spent most of the film distracted by Fox’s lip filler and repeated references to Randy Couture’s cauliflower ear. Halfway through, my wife tuned out and listened to a podcast. I sat through every cringy, uninspired moment. (103 min.) m —Glen

Can you believe we're in the month of September already? Now's the time you take a proactive approach for the holidays. If you're planning to host a Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year's party, think about freshening up the interior of your home. Sometimes the joyous season can be a little hectic. So, take one thing off your holiday list and enjoy the season. Call us for advice, it's always free.

PHOTO BY SEAN GLEASON, COURTESY

IRON LADY: Helen Mirren stars as Israel Prime Minister Golda Meir, who led her country during the 1973 Yom Kippur War, in the historical drama biopic Golda, screening exclusively at The Palm Theatre in San Luis Obispo.

a new member of a group of mercenaries who go on impossible missions, in Expend4bles, the fourth installment of the Expendables franchise, screening in local theaters.

Eats

Layers of kindness

BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL

If you got your heart broken or lost your job and don’t know how to cover rent, you should definitely have some lasagna.

That’s California Regional Director Bethany Williams’ mantra for seeking solace from Lasagna Love. Originally envisioned by Rhiannon Menn from her San Diego kitchen during the start of the

On call

pandemic, Lasagna Love is now an international nonprofit that delivers lasagnas to anyone who wants it, no questions asked.

“We were so isolated from each other,” Williams said. “This was a good way to really connect with each other without endangering yourself.”

Lasagna Love grew to have chapters in every U.S. state and now has a presence in parts of Canada

Visit lasagnalove.org/request if you need piping hot lasagna delivered to your doorstep. Volunteer to cook and deliver lasagnas at lasagnalove.org/get-involved. Keep up with Lasagna Love on Instagram @wearelasagnalove.

and Australia, delivering an average of 2,500 to 3,500 lasagnas a week. Williams signed up to volunteer in October 2020 and has cooked and made deliveries every week since.

Closer home, San Luis Obispo County has a Lasagna Love chapter too. It started in October 2020 and now has roughly six volunteers. These participants are residents who sign up and get matched with local recipients online. Once assigned, volunteers coordinate with clients about dietary preferences and delivery times before dropping off the lasagnas at doorsteps free of charge.

“The volunteers pay for all their own supplies,” Williams said of the nonprofit’s financial plan. “Lasagna Love also accepts donations, all through the website.”

One such volunteer is Arroyo Grande-based Sheri Gordon. An empty nester who recently moved to the area, Gordon found Lasagna Love to be a fulfilling way to use up her newfound free time.

“I was feeling sad, and I felt the best way to deal with my issues was to help somebody else,” Gordon said. “I enjoy cooking, and there’s something about a home-cooked meal that’s delivered to someone that feels so good.”

In the first week she’d been a volunteer, Gordon delivered a 9-by13-inch tray of lasagna to a woman in Nipomo who broke her ankle and couldn’t stand up. The two ultimately struck up a conversation.

“Her mother had passed away a few months ago, and she was in a dark place in her life,” she said. “I don’t know a lot of people here and have a limited social life. It gave me a purpose for the day.”

For other volunteers like Holly Zaninovich, Lasagna Love fits easily into her schedule. The Shell Beach resident cares for her son who has autism and found cooking and delivering lasagna to be a lowcommitment way to give back.

A volunteer since last December, she finds herself making portions as large as an entire sheet pan to ones as little as a small loaf pan. Zaninovich is assigned to the SLO County region and makes deliveries to Oceano, Arroyo Grande, and SLO.

“I love that volunteering with [Lasagna Love] serves people directly in our own community,”

she said. “There’s no specific commitment, and you can alter your [delivery] schedule.”

Zaninovich is a self-professed lasagna fan. So much so that the layered pasta dish crowned her dinner table last Christmas. For Lasagna Love’s recipients, she’s dished out vegetarian versions made with zucchini or spinach and ricotta, lasagna “rolls” tailored for single servings, and even chicken alfredo lasagna.

“I always like to round off a meal with Caesar salad and a loaf

of bread,” Zaninovich said. “We’re supposed to tell [requesters] about these considerate extras so that other recipients don’t expect it every time.” Her latest delivery was to a cancer patient who wanted to share a meal with her friends. She’s also prepared lasagna for Cal Poly students who were crunched for time to cook, and even recommended Lasagna Love to her own daughter who’s enrolled in college in Georgia.

“I went to Cal Poly years ago, and that would have been great at

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TRAY TIME: Lasagna Love’s popularity during the pandemic and beyond ensures lasagna delivery in all U.S. states and parts of Canada and Australia thanks to volunteers who signed up in scores.

JUDGEMENT FREE:

Volunteers make lasagna for clients who come from a whole range of backgrounds—college students, those with health issues, and anyone who simply enjoys the pasta.

PUMPKIN SMASHING! PUMPKIN SMASHING!

Smash it, don’t trash it!

the time. Who doesn’t want a little kindness and comfort?” she said. “Sometimes people need things, and it’s nice to ask for something and not feel judged.”

Lasagna Love goes beyond lasagna. Volunteers are welcome to offer another main dish that they’d prefer to cook instead.

Zaninovich is currently pondering a roasted chicken option while Arroyo Grande’s Gordon is anticipating the incoming winter with a shepherd’s pie.

SATURDAY,

“We ask one of the options to be lasagna, but I’m not a cop,” Regional Director Williams joked. “Be kind and be safe. Everything else is up to you.”

The average wait time for lasagna delivery in SLO County is 21 days but that’s open to changing, according to Williams. The nonprofit is always on the lookout for more volunteers—that’s one of the four goals it aims to achieve every year by July 29, National Lasagna Day.

Williams told the Sun that by that day each year, Lasagna Love also pledges to deliver 10,000 lasagnas over a 10-day period, sign 100 people up for the monthly donor plan, and

raise $100,000. Volunteers participate through local events and also digitally for Lasagn-AThon where they can stream their cooking online.

“This year, we delivered 11,000 lasagnas before the end of the week,” she said. “It’s our big Superbowl event!” m

New Times Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal might beat deadlines with more lasagna. Send speedy wishes to brajagopal@ newtimesslo.com.