Sun, July 4, 2024

Daddio reveals human complexities [32]

All day, all night

A YMCA in Santa Ynez wants to stay open 24/7, but its neighbors are against the plan [6]

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

Nipomo CSD argues taxes with SLO County [4]

Watercolors at the Cypress Gallery [30]

Twenty years in Ballard Canyon [33]

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AYMCA in the Santa Ynez Valley proposes to keep one of its exercise rooms open 24/7 with key card access for customers who pay for the membership, but no staff on-site at night. Two neighbors appealed the plan to the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission, citing previous issues with the YMCA and concerns about its impact on the neighborhood. Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor writes about the issue and what decision commissioners made [6].

This week, you can also read about how the Dana Reserve’s potential property tax revenue got between the Nipomo CSD and San Luis Obispo County [4]; a Lompoc woman’s eclectic watercolors at the Cypress Gallery [30]; and Jonata Winery celebrates 20 years of Ballard Canyon wines [33]. Camillia Lanham

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• Representatives in the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force announced a new effort to force a vote on legislation led by U.S. Reps. Lucy McBath (D-Georgia) and Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) to expand Americans’ access to red flag laws, which allow the removal of a gun from someone who is deemed by a court to pose a threat to themselves or others, according to a June 26 statement from Carbajal’s office. “Red flag laws should not be controversial. Studies have shown us that the vast majority of perpetrators of mass shootings show similar warning signs, including sharing their plans. And Republican- and Democraticled states alike have implemented them to protect communities and individuals from harm,” Carbajal said in the statement. “Since I came to Congress, I worked to get funding allocated to help expand use of these red flag laws, which we did through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. Expanding on that success with new avenues for intervention, new resources for training, and better standards for data would help more communities and save more lives.” If a majority of the U.S. House of Representatives signs the discharge petition, it would bypass House leadership and trigger a vote on the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, which was introduced by McBath and Carbajal in February 2023, according to Carbajal’s office. The legislation would unlock the ability for federal courts to issue extreme risk protection orders, temporarily removing guns from someone who is deemed a risk to others or themselves; instruct the Department of Justice to create a dedicated grant program to help states, local jurisdictions, and Native American tribes implement risk protection order laws; and extend the federal firearms restrictions to individuals who are subject to extreme risk protection orders.

U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-California) and U.S. Sen. Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, urging the department to issue a policy directive ensuring that vulnerable children seeking protection through the Central American Minors program (CAM) have access to counsel during their refugee interviews with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, according to a June 26 statement from Butler’s office. “We applaud the Biden administration for reopening and strengthening the CAM program, however, DHS’s prohibition on access to counsel during CAM interviews undermines children’s ability to meaningfully access protection while limiting the program’s potential to ease pressure and enhance orderliness at the U.S. southern border,” the senators wrote in their letter. CAM—an in-country refugee processing program—provides certain children who face danger in northern Central America with a lawful and orderly pathway through which they may seek to reunite with parents or legal guardians who reside and have lawful immigration status in the United States, according to Butler’s office. By helping eliminate the need for impacted children to make a dangerous journey to the U.S. southern border in pursuit of safety, CAM reduces the strain on U.S. border operations. The program also combats labor exploitation by helping ensure that children arrive with lawful status and are reunified with parents.

According to new state and federal employment data, California’s fast food industry has added jobs every month this year, including roughly 10,600 new jobs in the two months since Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the fast food minimum wage bill into law, according to a June 26 statement from the governor’s office. In his State of the State address, Newsom spoke directly to the importance of building an economy for all Californians. “We built this economy by valuing the dignity of work, cherishing family time, and honoring labor unions. You shouldn’t have to be a CEO to live a decent life—and in California, you don’t have to be,” Newsom said in the State of State address. “The California spirit means working hard and being rewarded with a paycheck that meets your needs. All our progress on higher wages and better benefits for working people—it’s not just about the hourly pay rate. It’s about building a dignified and respectful future where everyone is included in our growth. We are a state that gives a damn about fast food workers—who are predominantly women—working two and a half jobs to get by. Because of the leadership of California’s Legislature, these hard workers finally got the raise and job security they deserved.” m

Guadalupe Royal Theater bond measure fails during second reading

Guadalupe voters won’t have a chance to weigh in on a bond measure to fund the Royal Theater renovation project after the Guadalupe City Council voted 3-2 to put it on the ballot (with Councilmembers Eugene Costa Jr. and Christina Hernandez dissenting). It required one more vote in favor to pass.

“I’m now going to other sources and [deciding] what needs to be done and how to get this project finished,” Project Manager Thomas Brandeberry told the Sun. “There’s nothing off the table except the bond.”

The Royal Theater is a federally designated historic building that opened in 1939 as a movie theater and was owned by a Japanese-American family until they were sent to internment camps during World War II. The project proposes to revitalize the historic building with a new stateof-the-art movie theater, an amphitheater, and a performing arts center that could host live stage performances, musical events, educational and cultural programs, and provide a meeting space for local organizations.

For nearly a decade, Guadalupe city officials have discussed renovating the theater and came close to seeing it to fruition after receiving $10.5 million in grant funding from the state and federal governments, which would cover all of the construction costs. However, earlier consultants told the city that the project would be about $3 million short due to inflation and rising costs.

Facing a March 2025 deadline from the federal government, city officials proposed a general obligation bond measure, which would have added an average of $77 in property taxes per household per year with rates fluctuating depending on property values. While many residents expressed concern about increased taxes and multiple tax measures on the ballot, others supported the measure.

“I feel like this is a really good idea to bridge the past and the future. I’m excited about the future and … thinking of the possibilities with what my grandchildren would experience,” resident Melissa Chavez said during the June 25 meeting. “To ensure this building is intact and there for future generations is really important.”

Adding tax measures to the ballot requires a four-fifths vote from the City Council during its first and second reading, and it must receive twothirds voter approval if it makes the ballot.

The measure survived the first round with a 4-1 approval (Costa Jr. dissented) during Guadalupe’s June 11 meeting, but Hernandez’s change stopped the measure short of making it to the November general ballot during the measure’s second reading on June 25.

“Council members have their own ethical, moral conscience to make a decision so I would never criticize people for their [choices],” Brandeberry said. “I’m concerned that she changed her vote without explaining. From the perspective of the community and the expectation of the community that wanted [the measure] to pass, she should have told us her reasoning.”

Hernandez did not respond to the Sun’s inquiry for comment before press time.

Along with searching for alternative revenue, Brandeberry told the Sun that he’s continuing with the request for proposal (RFP) process in order to find a nonprofit operator to run the theater.

“We’ll have the RFP out in a couple of weeks, that’s the plan. We still need an operator no matter what because we will ultimately have something here,” Brandeberry said. “If nothing works and we have a gap, we will still have a historic movie theater and someone needs to [be] the operator. Hopefully, the operator will be operating a performing arts center.”

—Taylor O’Connor

Nipomo CSD is at odds with SLO County over property taxes

San Luis Obispo County and the Nipomo Community Services District (NCSD) are in a stalemate over potential tax revenue from the Dana Reserve development.

After the Board of Supervisors gave the green light for developer Nick Tompkins to move forward with building the 288-acre housing development, the Dana Reserve returned to the board on June 18, seeking approval for an annexation into the NCSD’s service area for water and wastewater services.

But before that can happen, the county and

the NCSD need to discuss and agree on an exchange of property tax revenue.

On April 23, 2019, the Board of Supervisors adopted a policy stating that funding for independent special districts should not result in a net fiscal loss to the county.

However, county administrative staffer and negotiator Rebecca Campbell said that county staff determined that the Dana Reserve project build-out would generate a net general fund deficit of roughly $612,000 if it was annexed into the NCSD. This point makes negotiations difficult because the county already allocates some property tax income to the NCSD, specifically 27 percent of its Post Educational Revenue Augmentation Fund.

“Because it is unknown what the actual household size will be, staff wanted to ensure the county would not take a loss related to the development,” she said.

Campbell said the county told the NCSD that the only way to move forward would be a zero exchange for the annexation—as in none of the Dana Reserve’s potential future property tax would go to the NCSD. But the NCSD is refusing after the county Assessor’s Office provided data that said that the Dana Reserve would generate an extra 3.7 percent in property taxes.

In March of 2023, the NCSD changed its annexation policy. It states that the amount of property tax revenue exchanged in future years should remain consistent with historic property tax revenue sharing agreements with regard to the percentage allocated to the district. This policy change, the NCSD claims, means that the extra 3.7 percent belongs to it.

Nipomo resident Carla Hanley urged supervisors not to let taxpayer money go to the NCSD and the Dana Reserve.

“NCSD has a history of making promises and mismanaging money and water. Right now, the aquifer, according to last week’s NCSD meeting, is back to 1970 levels. We are literally swimming in water right now, and I don’t understand why my tax dollars, why I have to pay for a developer to get water,” she said during public comment.

“He’s trying to build this thing on taxpayers’ money, and this is not right. Just please, please do not spend county money on putting in a private developer’s water supply.”

After both the NCSD and county staff requested more time to negotiate the tax revenue exchange, the supervisors voted unanimously to circle back this discussion at the next board meeting on July 9.

—Samantha Herrera

Buellton considers leeway for hotels without on-site management

An emerging trend within the hotel industry inspired Buellton officials to patch up a vacant corner of the city’s municipal code.

At its June 27 meeting, the Buellton City Council discussed two separate proposals from staff that address future hotel developments

MOVING FORWARD: Despite the Guadalupe Royal Theater bond measure failing to make the ballot, city officials are searching for alternative revenue sources to see this project come to fruition within grant deadlines.

intending to operate without 24/7 on-site management, comparable to the approach of many Airbnbs.

“Currently, the city’s municipal code does not address any requirements for on-site resident managers for hotel properties,” Buellton Planning Director Andrea Keefer said at the meeting.

City Manager Scott Wolfe said that it’s “becoming more and more common” for hotels and motels across the nation to operate with remote managers and keycode entry methods for guests.

“This type of an operation ... is on the rise all over the state; all over the country,” Wolfe said.

The lack of any specific regulation in Buellton’s municipal code regarding this topic “became apparent when working with a local hotel operator,” according to Keefer, who did not name the hotel.

“This particular hotel has 20 guest units and is currently being operated and managed remotely by staff at a non-adjacent property located a little bit over half a mile from the subject site,” Keefer said. “Both of these particular properties are owned by the same business entity.

“It would be prudent to address this issue for any future hotel operators as well as for the current hotel operator in question,” Keefer added.

According to the staff report, no hotel properties, “that staff is aware of,” are managed remotely without on-site resident managers in Buellton, other than the unnamed hotel operator under scrutiny.

Wolfe described the establishment as functioning “just as any other motel or hotel would with the exception that the manager is off-site a short distance away as opposed to being specifically on-site.”

“So, the real question here is: Is this an acceptable practice in the city of Buellton?” Wolfe asked the City Council.

After some discussions with both the operator and the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office on safety measures and other issues to consider, staff drafted two potential ordinance options for the City Council to review.

The first option enforces the California Code of Regulations’ stance on hotel management “as written,” by requiring an on-site manager at every hotel with 12 or more guest rooms. The second option interprets this obligation as being fulfilled through alternative conditions, including several emergency plans in place and a hotel manager available within 1 mile of the property.

Councilmember Hudson Hornick spoke in favor of requiring an on-site manager working on the premises around the clock.

“I think in terms of all the safety concerns, all the liability concerns ... it just makes sense to have a manager on site 24/7,” Hornick said.

Councilmember David Silva voiced support for the alternative option and noted that some hotels have staff members traveling beyond a mile to get to a separate side of the property.

“I used to do night audit in hotels ... so I’ve worked in properties where I was the one person on-site and the property had a 1-mile radius,” Silva recalled. “To get to the rooms farthest away was a 10-minute walk if I had to deal with something.

“The ask that we have right now ... could theoretically be similar to just putting one person in the center of a super large resort and have the same security concerns,” said Silva, who motioned to direct staff to bring back an ordinance in line with the second option and not require 24/7 on-site management.

The motion passed 3-2, with Hornick and Councilmember John Sanchez dissenting. m

—Caleb Wiseblood

All records for any Special Education student that was born within the year 2000 and attended a Santa Maria Joint Union High School District school, your physical special education records are available for pick up at no charge from the District Office. All 2000 not picked up by June 1, 2025 will be destroyed.

If you have any questions, or to arrange a pickup date/time, contact:

Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. of Special Education

Santa Maria Joint Union High School District 2560 Skyway Dr.

Santa Maria, CA 93455

805-922-4573 ext. 4311

ATENCION estudiantes anteriores de SMJUHSD nacidos en 2000!

Todos los registros de cualquier estudiante de Educación Especial que haya nacido dentro del año 2000 y asistió a una escuela del Distrito Escolar de las escuelas preparatorias de Santa Maria, sus registros físicos de educación especial están disponibles para recoger sin cargo en la Oficina del Distrito. Todos los registros del 2000 que no hayan sido recogidos para el 1 de junio de 2025 serán destruidos.

Si tiene alguna pregunta, o para programar una fecha/hora de recogida, comuníquense con:

Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. of Special Education

Santa Maria Joint Union High School District

2560 Skyway Dr. Santa Maria, CA 93455

805-922-4573 ext. 4311

The Summer/Fall 2024 Issue will be on stands soon!

Serving every age

Assemblymember Gregg Hart selected CALM as nonprofit of the year for its work on healing and preventing family trauma

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

CALM President and CEO Alana Walczak traveled to Sacramento in May to receive the 2024 California Nonprofit of the Year award from Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) in recognition of the organization’s work throughout Santa Barbara County.

“It was a huge surprise for our CEO Alana Walczak to get the call from Hart that we were his choice [for] nonprofit of the year,” CALM Director of Development Ashlyn McCague told the Sun Hart represents Santa Barbara, Goleta, Carpinteria, Buellton, Solvang, Lompoc, Guadalupe, Santa Maria, Orcutt, and Nipomo, and CALM was one out of nearly 200,000 nonprofits in the state recognized, she said. While in Sacramento, Walczak got to spend time with the Assembly member and learned about and from other nonprofits in the state.

“Each Assembly member and senator chooses an organization in their district. Hart selected CALM, which felt so incredible—just an honor that he saw our work as foundational to the community and making a big impact,” she said.

CALM is a community-based mental health agency that works to prevent childhood trauma, heal children and families, and build resilient communities throughout the county through two prongs: prevention and treatment, McCague said.

According to a statement from Hart’s office, the organization serves about 2,500 clients annually.

On the heels of Hart’s award, the nonprofit is looking forward to expanding its services in North County with nine new therapy rooms to see clients and additional staff office space, she said.

“This is a big increase for us to be able to further serve the community. We’ll be having an open house in September, and we’ll get the word out a little later to invite the community to our expanded office,” McCague said.

On the prevention side, CALM will screen families for signs

of trauma and use referrals from hospitals or doctors to identify clients that could use more support, she said. The organization also identifies families that could use additional support and works with parents and caregivers before the child is born (or at a young age) to help them understand milestones in a child’s development and how to build a strong healthy bond with their child.

“We know that you can break the cycle of trauma at any point, but it has to be identified. Trauma in your background leads to you repeating patterns unless you learn different skills—not parenting the way you were parented,” McCague said.

On the treatment side of the organization’s practice, CALM’s trained marriage and family therapists help kids ages 8 to 21 build coping skills and teach them to tell their story and relieve any shame or blame they feel with it, she said. Clinical social workers or mental health specialists without a master’s degree in therapy do more work with the parents and/or caregivers by connecting them to additional resources and walking them through milestones.

“Treatment is for children, but you cannot serve a child in a vacuum. You have to think about their environment and those around them, so we work with the parents when possible, but the weekly therapy sessions are for children,” McCague said. “I think the age span makes CALM unique, I know organizations that do a subset of either of those things, but we focus on this large continuum of care and really meeting needs at every age.”

Having a wide age span allows children to have consistency and work with a familiar face for a longer time. Families are also welcome to come back if additional services are needed or if children need more treatment, and services are offered on a sliding scale.

Visit calm4kids.org for more information about its services.

Highlights

• The Santa Maria Valley Pioneer Association will be hosting its 100th annual picnic in Pioneer Park on July 13 at 1 p.m. The association honors the descendants of homesteaders in Santa Maria. Families can join the association for $20 if they’ve been in the community for more than 40 years or $30 if they’ve lived in Santa Maria for less time. The annual tradition started in 1924 with families celebrating 11 miles east of Santa Maria, now known as Twitchell Dam, and Union Oil Hill for decades after that. In the late 1990s, two association leaders spearheaded the

Pioneer Park Project, where the celebration continues. Visit smvpioneerassociation.com for more information.

• The Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department and the People for Leisure and Youth (PLAY) Inc. announced Summer Concerts in the Park—a free, fun, family-friendly concert series held throughout the summer. Performances are from 1 to 3 p.m. on select Sunday afternoons at Pioneer Park (1150 W. Foster Road); Rotary Centennial Park (2628 South College Drive); and Acquistapace Park (1921 S. Western Ave.—adjacent to Jimenez Elementary School). At Pioneer Park, catch Mestizo on July 14; Centennial Park will host Ghost Monster on July 21, Unfinished Business on July 28, and The Brass Factory on Aug. 4. Acquistapace Park will have Way Out West performing on Aug. 11, Shop Rock on Aug. 18, and Mother Corn Shuckers on Aug. 25. For more information, call (805) 925-0951, Ext. 2260. m

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

SACRAMENTO CELEBRATION: CALM President and CEO Alana Walczak (left) traveled to Sacramento to receive the 2024 California nonprofit of the year award from Assemblymember Gregg Hart, right (D-Santa Barbara).

Should Guadalupe ask voters to approve a bond for Royal Theater renovations?

50% Maybe, but only if there’s no other option.

34% Yes, of course! It’s an essential project.

16% No way! It’s not necessary!

0% The city should use only the money it already has.

6 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly 801 S Broadway Suite 3 Santa Maria, CA 93454

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Believe it

We should not shrug off Trump’s potential to be a dictator

BY GARY MURRAY

As I read the letters and editorials in your paper, it seems as if Republicans must really hate this country. Everything to them is doom and gloom, and they seem to believe Biden is ruining the country.

On the brighter side, this country has now had seven straight quarters of economic growth and unemployment is at the lowest levels in 50 years. Inflation has gone from about 9 percent at the beginning of 2020 to just under the long-standing yearly average of 3.48 percent. Even conservative economists are saying that Bidenomics is working.

We’ve invested in roads and bridges for the first time in years, and, despite what the Republican presidential nominee says about our cities, the FBI says that violent crime is down across the country. These are verifiable facts, and we as a nation have every reason to be positive. Do we have problems? Yes, we do, and we should work together to fix them. Should we trust a failed businessman, convicted felon, and wannabe dictator to fix them? No, we should not.

I believe Trump when he says he wants to be a

Biden over Trump

I don’t know what planet Ron Fink was on four years ago, but the country and entire world were in the middle of a pandemic! Remember COVID? It was hard to get toilet paper, masks, and staples like flour and rice! Millions didn’t survive, and Trump did not care

I will take Biden over Trump every single time.

Alyx Michell Nipomo

Wind facilities vs. our national bird

Our national bird, the bald eagle—a protected species—is incurring increasing mortality from existing and proposed wind facilities. This letter focuses on the slaughter of bald eagles due to the offshore wind industry, which are proposed to grow massively along coastal California in order to reduce carbon emissions.

However, the U.S. Department of Energy has stated that the carbon reduction benefits of offshore wind are nil. Further, it is a felony for a citizen to kill a bald eagle, with a possible sentence of two years in prison, plus a fine. However, the Biden administration has issued “kill permits” to wind industry executives for the slaughter of up to 15,000 bald eagles per year, and to protect wind industry executives from the expected kill rates of bald eagles from offshore wind farm operations proposed in the Morro Bay area and in New England.

Where are our national priorities if we are willing to sacrifice our national bird for no net economic or carbon reduction benefit?

Michael Hogan Monterey

Trump isn’t alone in speaking against

immigration

President Trump is not the only person in history to speak out against immigration. Alexander Hamilton was upset about the election of Thomas Jefferson. He claimed the election was stolen and non-U.S. citizens in New York had voted for him. Hamilton an immigrant himself, stated that “the influx of foreigners” would “change and corrupt the national sprit.”

dictator on day one, enforce loyalty, possibly ban contraceptives, seek revenge on his suspected enemies, and enable the police to deport suspected immigrants—I just don’t want to live under a government like that. And since we won’t likely support police just stopping people on the street based on race alone, would the new law add police powers to stop and search all people? Are we all going to have to carry identification papers proving citizenship?

Do you believe that the president of the USA should be able to force every federal employee to take a fealty test to the president, instead of the law? Donald Trump does, and he has a plan to make sure that happens. Republican congressional leaders are reportedly working on a list of names to replace key federal employees with people who are loyal to Trump. I would vigorously recommend that every American voter read the Heritage Foundation plan called “Project 2025.” It is the 920-page plan embraced by Trump and his supporters. Look it up and read through it for yourself—and then ask yourself if this vision of the country is truly the kind of America you want for your children and grandchildren.

This paper published a letter by a writer who tried to minimize Donald Trump’s obvious dictator-like tendencies by comparing him to an American president who has been dead for 85 years (“Dictators,” June 13). Trump’s potential to be a dictator has been discussed in depth by

I have not talked to anyone regardless of political affiliation who thinks what is going on at our southern border since President Biden took office is OK.

This border crisis didn’t just happen when President Biden was in office, President Biden created it with executive orders. The foundation of our immigration law is that all immigrants legal and illegal be self-sufficient and not receive public assistance. President Biden is providing public assistance in direct violation of our immigration laws.

We are not supposed to catch and release single males into our country, this was only for family

WRITE NOW! We want to know what you think about everything. Send your 250-word letter to Sun Letters, 801 S Broadway Suite 3, Santa Maria, CA 93454. You can also fax it (1-805-546-8641) or e-mail it (letters@santamariasun.com). All letters must include a name, address, and phone number for verification purposes; may be edited for space or clarity; and will be posted to santamariasun.com.

many scholars from both sides of the aisle and should not be so casually dismissed. I believe that trying to deflect the modern danger to democracy posed by Trump by comparing him to the long-dead FDR is a big stretch of misguided imaginative reasoning.

(As an aside, I’d also like to point out that Mayfield’s poorly thought-out attempt at editorial humor in the same issue belittles the American justice system and all the good citizens who give their time and energy to make it work. Your paper is published in a conservative town, but that is no reason to publish conspiracy nonsense. I would hope the majority of your readers expect better of you. In fact, maybe you should consider running a few pieces on the ideas and plans written in Project 2025 to help explain it to the people in this town.) m

Gary Murray writes to the Sun from Orcutt. Send a letter for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.

units. President Biden is releasing millions of single males into our country in direct violation of this law. President Biden is committing treason by violating the very laws he was sworn in to uphold. Also a bipartisan border security bill that provides President Biden with more border processors is not the solution. This is why it was defeated.

It appears to me you are blaming President Trump for everything President Biden created. I would like to remind you President Trump is not in office.

Speak up! Send us your views and opinion to letters@santamariasun.com.

James Dumas Cayucos

Unsupervised

Who knew a 24-hour gym was such a big deal? 24-Hour Fitness has gyms all over the state: the greater Los Angeles area, the Bay Area, Santa Cruz, the Sacramento Valley, San Diego area, and in Santa Barbara.

But there isn’t one in the Santa Ynez Valley, which has a YMCA that wants to keep a fitness room open overnight, past 8 p.m. Sounds benign, right?

A couple of neighbors disagree. Frank Betts and Deanna Harwood appealed the proposal to the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission due to concerns about onsite safety, security, noise, light, and setting a precedent in the county. Umm, the county already has several Planet Fitness and Anytime Fitness locations that are open 24 hours a day.

“There is no 24-hour unsupervised fitness organization in Santa Barbara County. That’s what makes it precedent-setting,” Betts said during a June 26 hearing, not knowing (I guess) that there’s a gym exactly like that in Orcutt. Betts said he was concerned about safety— unsuspecting victims getting attacked in the parking lot that he also doesn’t want lights on overnight. Umm, if I went to the gym in the middle of the night, I would be on high alert and would absolutely want a well-lit parking lot to be my guide.

Fourth District Commissioner Roy Reed, who makes the best comments, said the issues Betts and Harwood had with the YMCA seemed more like a list of previous grievances than anything.

“Some of your assertions about staff and their operational expertise seemed to me to be a little bit personal,” Reed said. “They don’t really seem to be what I would expect.”

Betts pointed out that he’d complained about the outdoor Zumba and spin classes the Y held

during COVID-19—the music was deafening, apparently, and aimed “straight into our backyard.” Sounds like the YMCA is out to get you guys and not in the business of providing an affordable place for fitness.

Obviously, those classes aren’t going on anymore, because COVID-19 restrictions are no longer in place. It’s an example of irresponsible management, Betts insinuated.

Reed wasn’t convinced about who the irresponsible party was and referred to a photo submitted of one of the outdoor Zumba classes.

“Where were you standing? Did those women know you were peeping over the fence taking their picture?” Reed asked, making a salient, subversive, satirical point that made me cackle, which was wrong of me–I’m sorry.

This whole unsupervised business, though, was also a hot topic just down the road in Buellton—a city concerned about unmanned hotels and what it means for safety. Apparently, adults are children who need to be supervised!

The emerging trend brought about by Airbnbs—the downfall of residential communities everywhere—had to be addressed thanks to a certain unnamed hotel operator in town.

“It would be prudent to address this issue for any future hotel operators as well as for the current hotel operator in question,” Planning Director Andrea Keefer said at the Buellton City Council’s June 27 meeting.

The hotel-operator-who-shall-not-be-named has a spot functioning as any other hotel or motel would, except the manager is off-site.

“Is this an acceptable practice in Buellton?”

City Manager Scott Wolfe asked.

Sounds like it just might be. m

The Canary is never supervised. Send comments to canary@santamariasun.com.

The

Santa Maria Joint Union High School District

Special Education - Child Find

The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) seeks to identify, locate, and evaluate high school age students suspected of having a disability who may be eligible for special education services designed to meet their educational needs at no cost to families. This includes students that are highly mobile, migrant, experiencing homelessness, students that are wards of the state, and students attending private schools located within SMJUHSD boundaries. If you suspect your child has a disability, contact the school special education department or district office Special Education Department.

Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)

El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria Educación Especial - Búsqueda de Estudiantes

El Distrito Unificado de Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria (SMJUHSD) busca identificar, localizar y evaluar a los estudiantes en edad de escuela preparatoria sospechosos de tener una discapacidad que puede ser elegible para servicios de educación especial diseñados para satisfacer sus necesidades educativas sin costo alguno para las familias. Esto incluye a los estudiantes que son altamente móviles, migrantes, sin hogar, estudiantes que están bajo la tutela del estado, y los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas privadas ubicadas dentro los limites de SMJUHSD. Si sospecha que su hijo tiene una discapacidad, comuníquese con el departamento de educación especial de la escuela u oficina de Educación Especial del distrito SMJUHSD.

Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)

Hot Stuff

ARTS

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

CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. 805-928-7799. Kleindancesarts.com. KleinDance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.

DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.

FLIRTY FICTION BOOK CLUB Flirty

Fiction is a book club for readers of contemporary romance fiction. Meetings are the second Tuesday of each month to discuss a new title. July’s title is The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren. For ages 18 and over. Registration is required. Light refreshments served. July 9, 5:15-6:15 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17

Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE:

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

p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 832-884-8114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

CALIFORNIA’S CHANGING LANDSCAPE:

THE WAY OF WATER Featuring more than 20 large-format documentary inkjet photographs of the Golden State, this timely exhibition showcases George Rose’s recent expansive documentation of California’s dramatic water story. Through July 8 California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, calnatureartmuseum.org.

DOCUMENTARIES CHANGE THE WORLD: CULTURAL SUNDAYS TALK Awardwinning filmmaker Kum-Kum Bhavnani talks about how her documentaries shed light on injustices across the globe and offer new ways to think about how ordinary people change the world. For ages 21 and over; come early to ensure a seat. July 7 5-7 p.m. Free entry. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

THE LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS The hit sci-fi horror comedy, with songs by lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken. Presented by PCPA. July 12-28 Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.

PILLARS: GALLERY LOS OLIVOS

A collection of realistic oil paintings honoring the workers that hold up our food system. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through July 31 805-688-7517. GalleryLoosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG July 12-28 Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.

SOLVANG ROTARY’S ANNUAL JULY 4TH

PARADE Dozens upon dozens of parade entrants such as classic cars, prancing horses, dance groups, drum lines, and brass sections travel along the route. July 4 11 a.m. SolvangUSA.com. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.

UNDER THE SAME SUN The exhibition features works by five visual artists based in Central and Southern California with their own unique approach as seen in the diversity of the work on display and the variety of styles. Through July 7 elverhoj. org. Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, 805-686-1211.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

DISNEY’S NEWSIES Leap into the heart of New York City with this high-energy musical that brings to life the true story of the 1899 Newsboys Strike. Join Jack, Katherine, Davey, and Les as they rally the city’s newsboys against the biggest publishers for their rights. July 11 7-9:30 p.m., July 12 7-9:30 p.m. and July 13 2-4:30 & 7-9:30 p.m. $10-$20. 805-4899444. clarkcenter.org/shows/cctcnewsies/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. FIND WALDO LOCAL 2024 Where’s Waldo? In Arroyo Grande, of course. Waldo is hiding at 20 local businesses in July. Grab your stamp card from Monarch Books on July 1 and start your search. Collect 20 or more stamps and you could

win a prize in the grand-prize drawing. Through July 28 Free. 805-668-6300. monarchbooks805.com. Monarch Books, 201 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande. FRIENDS OF THE NIPOMO LIBRARY: USED BOOK SALE Arrive at 10 a.m. for the best selection of adult fiction/ nonfiction, children’s books, jigsaw puzzles, and CDs/DVDs. FONL members get tickets for two free books at every sale. July 13 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 805-929-3994. friendsofnipomolibrary.org/. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo. GUNSMOKIN’ July 12- Sept. 7 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

MOSAIC ART WORKSHOP Make mosaic art for your home and garden at this weekend workshop. All skill levels welcome. Learn how to use basic tools and proven techniques to complete your project. Choose your project online. July 13 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and July 14 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $205. 805-440-3054. passifloramosaics.com. Passiflora Mosaics, 330 N. 10th St., Grover Beach.

PIRATES OF PISMO A-GO-GO The plot follows a young “junior pirate” who plans to celebrate his 21st birthday by breaking away from the grip of his master, the Pirate King. Comical complications arise because of his Feb. 29 birthday, as it only comes around every four years. Through July 6 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ACT SUMMER THEATRE CAMPS Visit site for details on this summer camp series. Through Aug. 5 slorep.org/education/acttheatre-camps/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-786-2440.

ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES

Actor’s Edge offers film and television

BUTTONWOOD BLUES

Buttonwood Farm and Vineyard in Solvang hosts its annual Red, White, and Blues event on Saturday, July 6, from 3 to 6 p.m. The celebration features live music from the Doublewide Kings, a complimentary glass of wine, exclusive bottle specials, tacos, and barbecue dishes available for purchase, and more. Admission ranges between $65 and $75. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the White Buffalo Land Trust. Visit buttonwoodwinery.com for more details.

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.

ADAM PARKER SMITH: FOR THE TIME

BEING This exhibition will feature several works made throughout the artist’s career as sort of a mid-career retrospective.

Adam Parker Smith has a unique ability to address complex themes in a whimsical, light-hearted way that makes his work incredibly accessible. Through July 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/ exhibition/adam-parker-smith/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40.

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

APRIL BANKS: OUTLANDISH Los

Angeles-based artist April Banks is a creative strategist working across visual art, social engagement, and exhibition design. Her practice sits intentionally between image, space, and experience. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/aprilbanks/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

ART AFTER DARK: CENTURY 21

HOMETOWN REALTY Century 21

Hometown Realty is pleased to host amazing local artists, rotating their art work each month for the ‘Art After Dark’ calendar year. Reception of food and wine. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. through Nov. 1 Century 21 Hometown Realty, 1103 Toro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-235-4877.

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.

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. CIRCUS VARGAS PRESENTS JUBILÉ! AN EPIC WORLD CELEBRATION Featuring the world’s finest in circus acrobatic and aerial artistry presented with the magical voice of Johnathan Lee Iverson. Through July 8 $25-$80. circusvargas. com. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., 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.

DESERT LANDSCAPE: BEGINNER

ACRYLIC WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM In this three-hour class, you’ll be instructed step-by-step to paint an acrylic desert landscape. Beginners are welcome and no experience is necessary. July 13, 1:30-4:30 p.m. $40. 805-478-2158. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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. FOUR-WEEK ADULT HANDBUILDING AND WHEEL SERIES Learning both

—Caleb Wiseblood

COURTESY PHOTO BY HEATHER DAENITZ

Concerts: Adam Ezra (solo) and Mary Scholz

SUNDAY, JULY 14 Peter Strauss Ranch,

FRIDAY, JULY 19 Humdinger Brewing, SLO Terminal Presents Deadstock II FRI-SUN, JULY 19-21 Dark Nectar Coffee, Atascadero

SATURDAY,

SATURDAY,

The Comedy Roast of Mat Salud

WEDNESDAY, JULY

Lavender Farm Yoga

SATURDAY, JULY 20

SATURDAY, JULY

AIR NECESSITIES

Australian soft rock duo Air Supply will perform at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez on Friday, July 12, at 8 p.m. Held in the resort’s Samala Showroom, this concert is part of The Lost in Love Experience Tour. Tickets to the show range between $49 and $79. To find out more about the concert or purchase tickets in advance, visit chumashcasino.com.

ARTS from page 10

handbuilding and wheel throwing techniques. Students will get a taste of all things clay in this four-week series. Clay/ firing included; beginner friendly. Please sign up online in advance. This series is offered each month (check website for availability). First Saturday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $180. anamcre.com/ booking. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

LEARN 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.

THE MAMA TEMPLE Includes contributions of art, stories, and experience that challenge the narrative of motherhood. This collaboration of art and story has a message of healing and reconciliation for ourselves and others. Motherhood events/workshops are held during July. July 5 -31 themamatemple. org/work/julyevents. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, 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.

PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden. Second Saturday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $75 per picket or 2 for $100. 805-541-1400. slobg. org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

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.

RJ WILLIAMS: HIP-HOP IMPROV

WORKSHOP Hosted by Central Coast Comedy Theater. July 7 1-4 p.m. my805tix. com/. Central Coast Comedy Theater Training Center, 2078 Parker Street, suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-858-8255.

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.

SECOND SATURDAYS SLOMA’s Second Saturdays program encourages intergenerational learning and creative expression for children of all ages. Families are invited to SLOMA’s lawn to learn about the visual arts together using unique activity kits and create an art project inspired by current exhibitions. Second Saturday of every month, 11-1 a.m. through Dec. 14 Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/events/second-saturdays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING

WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors.

To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Wednesdays, 1:30-

3:30 p.m. $35. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

WALT WHITMAN GAY MEN’S BOOK CLUB

This club reads, studies and discusses books chosen by the group which relate to their lives as gay men. All are welcome. Second Monday of every month, 7-9:30 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. WHOSE WATERS? This Gray Wing exhibition will build upon the photojournalistic work of Southern California artist Gabriella Angotti-Jones whose I Just Wanna Surf book highlights Black female and non-binary surfers and other unseen or outright ignored communities that ride the waves off the Golden State. July 13 - Oct. 20 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/ exhibition/surf-show/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

YOUTH POTTERY CLASS Teens love this class. Learn handbuilding techniques and throwing on the potter’s wheel. Held every Friday after school. Fridays, 3:30-5 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

JEWELRY AND ART BY CAROL ROULLARD Using a microscope, Carol shows us extraordinary, intricate dazzling crystals with unique natural structures and patterns. Come discover the microcosmos in this amazing jewelry show. Gallery at Marina Square is open daily. Through July 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

JULY ARTISTS RECEPTION AND ATRIUM PARTY Featuring Patricia Newton, Gregory Siragusa, and Carol Roullard, with their paintings, photography, and jewelry, respectively. July 13 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

ARTS continued page 25

Ice Cream Zoofari

JULY 13 Charles Paddock Zoo, Atascadero

Agoura Hills

17 Libertine Brewing Company, SLO

Sadie Jasper: Album Release Party

California Lavender Honey Farm, San Miguel

Slow Flow & Somatics with Caroline of A Stone Was Shown Doula Care

JULY 20 The Bunker SLO

The Midiri Brothers & Barrelhouse Wailers

JULY 20 Pismo Beach Veterans’ Hall

“The Goonies” Morro Bay in Bloom Fundraiser

20 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

—C.W.

PURCHASE TICKETS

SANTA

WILD SCIENCE

Take an excursion into the wild and amazing world of science through a plethora of highly interactive, fun, and visually captivating displays and activities. Come join us in Park Plaza and see how much fun you can have with Wild Science!

Janet Silveria, President / CEO

La Placita

OUTLAW MARIACHI

The OutLaw Mariachi is L.A.’s Premiere Rock Mariachi Band. These Charros of Rock blend traditional mariachi sounds with the high powered energy of American and Latin Rock. Their music also incorporates heavy influences from genres such as Hard Rock, Afro-Caribbean, Country, and many danceable rhythms such as Cumbia, Merengue, Zapateado, Mambo, etc…

MARIACHI DIVAS

Founded in 1999 by musical director and trumpet player Cindy Shea, Mariachi Divas is an all-female ensemble that continues to expand the scope of mariachi music. A two-time GRAMMY Award winner with seven GRAMMY nominations and three Latin GRAMMY nominations, they are one of the longest-running all-female mariachi ensembles.

Things to See

POWERHOUSE

POWERHOUSE!!! combines innovative tap, precision clogging, Irish step dancing and stomp into an electrifying dance experience. Comprised of a diverse group of nationally recognized “percussive dance” performers, POWERHOUSE!!! is comedic and highly interactive!

COOK’S RACING PIGS

Come check out the racing bacon and see who is the fastest! Y’all don’t want to miss this racing spectacle!

Our team at Pediatric Medical Group is dedicated to the health and well-being of your child. Whether you have an infant, preschooler, or teenager, we work closely with parents to make sure that our care meets their children’s personal needs.

Call to schedule your child’s well exam today.

Joseph Nunez, M.D.

David Ikola, M.D. Shane Rostermundt, D.O.

Michele Kielty, D.O.

Ryan Leachman, D.O. Lynn Peltier, C.P.N.P. Jessica Prather, C.N.P. Geronna Leonards, N.P.

OIL PAINTINGS BY PATRICIA NEWTON

Newton’s style is representational, “utilizing a glazing technique to create a translucent effect that provides depth and emanates light from my paintings.”

Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.

com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY SIRAGUSA

This artist prefers photography of subjects that are subtle or commonplace, “revealing beauty that often goes unnoticed.” But his portfolio also exhibits grandeur, capturing memorable landscapes and birds whose wings regularly touch the sky. Work is printed on metal, canvas, and paper. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. 805-772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

SYLVIA A man adopts a talking dog who competes with his wife for his affection and attention. Through July 7 By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay, bytheseaproductions.org.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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

BARN OWLS AND INTEGRATED

PEST MANAGEMENT WITH MASTER GARDENERS OF SANTA BARBARA

COUNTY The Master Gardeners of Santa Barbara County will teach about garden pests and discuss various ways to manage them. Registration is required; for patrons 18 and older. July 7, 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria. org/services/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: DIY

ZENTANGLES Learn how to create a customized zentangle image. This workshop is free; all materials and supplies will be provided. Registration is required. For patrons 18 or older. July 9 12-1:30 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 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.

CLOTHING EXCHANGE Join the Santa Maria Public Library in Shepard Hall for its first ever clothing exchange. Clean out your closet and bring in gently worn, good condition clothing and get a chance to upcycle your own wardrobe. Don’t bring shoes, underwear, socks, or dirty clothing. July 6 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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

FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17

Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing 805-343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

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

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY FAIR 2024

Offers a unique assortment of activities to do and see and provides visitors with an interesting mix of both community oriented and educational fun. July 10 -14 santamariafairpark.com. Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY AVILA BEACH 4TH OF JULY DOGGIE PARADE All dogs must be registered to walk in the parade. Also includes a costume contest. July 4 , 11 a.m.-noon my805tix.com. Avila Beach Promenade, 404 Front St., Avila Beach.

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

BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

CENTRAL COAST AQUARIUM SUMMER CAMPS The Central Coast Aquarium is excited to announce that summer camp registrations are now open. Each week-long camp session will include: interactive lessons and activities, outdoor field trips, animal encounters, and more. Mondays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through Aug. 5 centralcoastaquarium.org/campsprograms/seasonal-camps/summercamps/. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach, 805-595-7280.

COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY

Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks including pathways maintenance, litter patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, irrigation system expansion/repairs, pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, and tools related to the above activities. First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Free. 805-710-3073. Nipomo Native Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo.

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. JULY 4TH CELEBRATION AND CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION Enjoy local vendors in the Pier Plaza starting at 9 a.m., music from Epic Entertainment from noon to 9 p.m., and “the best fireworks show on the Central Coast” at 9 p.m. July 4 9 a.m.-10 p.m. experiencepismobeach.com. Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, Pismo Beach.

MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. 510-3623739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52 Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological. Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. 805-547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index.php/ chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.

OCEANO SEABREEZE MARKET Discover Oceano is proud to present the Oceano Seabreeze Market featuring handcrafted artisanal goods and exclusive collections from local makers, artisans, and curators. Enjoy shopping, food, drinks, music, and an afternoon of fun at the historic Oceano Depot. July 13 12-5 p.m. Free admission. 805-779-1414. DiscoverOceanoCa.com. Oceano Train Depot, 1650 Front St., Oceano.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS

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

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

SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. 805-9046615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Looking for a fun and educational opportunity this summer? Join the aquarium’s Volunteer Team. No marine science experience is necessary. There are lots of ways to get involved. Check out website for more details. Tuesdays. through Sept. 30 centralcoastaquarium.org. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach, 805-595-7280.

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. 805-4816399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

AGING GRACEFULLY WITH PREVENTATIVE CARE “We can’t stop getting older, but we can shift our thinking about it.” Moving from “I can’t do anything about it” to “I have some control over how my mind and body ages.” Series sponsored by Unity Five Cities. Details from chris@peacefulpoint.com. Over Zoom. Wednesdays, 6-7:30 p.m. through Nov. 20 Love offering. (805) 489-7359. unity5cities.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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.

CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN

TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:30-11:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo.

CIRCUS GYMNASTICS CAMP With gymnastics, themed crafts and games, and educational trivia. Dare to fly high on the trampolines, bars, beams, foam pits, and more. Ages 4-13; no gymnastics experience necessary. July 8 -12, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $40-$360 depending on which options you choose. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/camps. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 26

TICKET WITH US!

Hot Stuff

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

The Piedras Blancas Light Station in San Simeon kicks off its Hike-In Open House series on Wednesday, July 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants have the option to park at two designated sites in San Simeon and embark on a 4-mile round trip hike to the station. Additional events in the series will be held on July 24 and Aug. 14 and 28. Admission is free, while a donation of $5 is suggested. Visit piedrasblancas.org for more info.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 25

DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. 646-2805800. margotschaal.com/qigong. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

FREE FAMILY DAY: TRAINS, CRAFTS, AND ACTIVITIES This month, enjoy a partnership event with the Central California Coast Garden Model Railroad Society; a fabulous day in the Garden for exploring trains and nature. No ticket needed. July 14 , 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. 805541-1400. slobg.org/calendar-of-events/. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

GUIDED ENERGETIC MEDITATION

Are you energetically sensitive? This reoccurring weekly class will be a guided Introduction to Energetic Meditation Techniques that will assist you to: clear your energy field, improve energy flow and energy boundaries, quiet and focus your mind, and be clearer about “Who You Really Are.” Mondays, 6:30-8 p.m. through Nov. 30 $22. 503-929-6416. elohiacupuncture.com/classes/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT

7/20

7/21

7/27

7/28

GROUP A safe place to share life experiences with those who have depression or have had and recovered from the devastating effects of depression. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free. 805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

METAPHYSICAL/SPIRITUALITY BOOK

CLUB A weekly book discussion, on a wide variety of titles from the general subject of metaphysics, spirituality, and comparative religion. By invitation. For more information, contact David Higgins, email: davidhiggins67@gmail. com. Location revealed to those invited. Wednesdays. rationalmetaphysics.com. Private location, TBA, Location not to be published.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.

PARK PALOOZA Features a color run, car show, food and drink vendors, and more. July 13 11 a.m. my805tix.com. Dairy Creek Golf Course, 2990 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo, 805-782-8060.

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORABILIA COLLECTORS SHOW Features memorabilia such as challenge coins,

patches, photographs, and historical displays from law enforcement and fire agencies. Exhibitors from throughout California will be on hand with many historic displays. This family-friendly event is free, but donations are appreciated. July 6 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 805-441-4936. Veteran’s Memorial Building, 801 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

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

QI GONG FOR MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT

Learn and practice qi gong, a Chinese system for physical, mental and spiritual development. This class is conducted outdoors in a beautiful setting, which is the best place to do qi gong, as its inspiration is drawn from nature. Certified instructor: Devin Wallace. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805-709-2227. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

SLO BLUES BASEBALL 33 summer home games held. Go to bluesbaseball.com for full schedule. Tickets available from My805Tix. Through July 27 $10 adults; 12 and under free. 805-512-9996. my805tix. com. SLO Blues Summer Collegiate Baseball, Sinsheimer Stadium at 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispso.

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB

MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace for this outdoor class which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email before attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805709-2227. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

SUMMER SCIENCE AND ART IN THE GARDEN: AGES 7-10 During the week of July 8 through 12, students will have different daily explorations into the natural world. Some topics include:

pollination, native birds, soil investigation, etc. July 8 10 a.m.-noon, July 9, 10 a.m.noon, July 10 10 a.m.-noon, July 11 , 10 a.m.-noon and July 12 10 a.m.-noon $100. 805-541-1400. slobg.org/event/summerscience-and-art-week-for-kids-7-to-10/. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo. SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+

AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

TECH BREW MEETUP Tech Brew is a free networking event where people interested in technology can hang out in an informal environment with a small TEDtalk-like presentation from an interesting speaker. Learn more online. Second Monday of every month, 5-7 p.m. 805-323-6706. meetup.com/softec/. StoryLabs, 102 Cross St, Suite 220, San Luis Obispo. TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 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. TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated emotional support group to be heard, share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like your own. Second Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 28

—C.W.

AIR SUPPLY

of July with spectacular savings at Cambria Nursery’s “Freedom to Grow” sale. Enjoy 20 percent off store-wide and a special 30-40 percent off select plants. Transform your garden with these amazing deals and enjoy a lush, vibrant outdoor space all summer long. July 4 -7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 805-927-4747. cambrianursery.com/events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.

ADOPT A KITTEN EVENT Hosted by Feline Network of the Central Coast. Come see beautiful kittens for adoption and bring home a forever pet. All are fixed, vaccinated, and microchipped and include a free vet visit. July 6 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 805-550-9064. lovnursery.com/. Los Osos Valley Nursery, 301 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos.

CAMBRIA’S ANNUAL 4TH OF JULY

SOCRATES: DISCUSSION GROUP Group members present interesting and thought provoking topics of all sorts. Topics are selected in advance and moderated by volunteers. Vaccinations are necessary. Enter through wooden gate to garden area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. 805-528-7111. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

SUCCULENT MUSHROOM WORKSHOP AT CAMBRIA NURSERY Discover the art of creating stunning succulent mushroom arrangements in this exciting workshop led by the talented Shana and Patty. This hands-on event is perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners looking to add a unique touch to their plant collection. July 6, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $25. 805-927-4747. cambrianursery.com/ events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.

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.

CELEBRATION With a barbecue, music, and family-friendly events all day long. Fireworks start at dusk. July 4 , 11 a.m. visitsansimeonca.com. Shamel Park, 5455 Windsor Blvd., Cambria.

CAYUCOS FOURTH OF JULY TOWN

PARADE Organized by the Cayucos Lions Club. Front Street Faire runs through 6 p.m. July 4 , 10 a.m. cayucoschamber.com/ july4th. Cayucos Beach, 10 Cayucos Dr., Cayucos.

CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS

Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, 805-772-2840, sttimothymorrobay.org.

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.

FIREWORKS FROM THE PIER Cayucos Chamber takes on the effort to produce and fund this annual fireworks show, reported to cost more than $50,000, according to the chamber’s website. July 4 9 p.m. cayucoschamber.com/july4th. Cayucos Beach, 10 Cayucos Dr., Cayucos. HIKE-IN OPEN HOUSE Enjoy the scenery on a 4-mile round trip hike to the Piedras Blancas Light Station. Park at the elephant seal viewing area 1.5 miles south of the light station or the vista point 1 mile north. July 10, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; suggested donation $5 per person. 805-927-7361. piedrasblancas.org/hikein-open-house. Piedras Blancas Light Station, 15950 Cabrillo Highway, San Simeon.

JULY 4TH SAND SCULPTURE CONTEST

Prizes for adults and kids. July 4 4-10 a.m. cayucoschamber.com. Cayucos Beach, 10 Cayucos Dr., Cayucos.

JULY 5 CLEANUP The Morro Bay National Estuary Program is hosting a beach cleanup after the Fourth of July. Major summer holidays bring the most litter to our beaches and waterways. Join MBNEP staff and community members to pick up litter and debris around Morro Rock. July 5 10 a.m.-noon Free. mbnep.org. Morro Rock, Coleman Drive, Morro Bay.

MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS

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

SUMMER SPECTACULAR: SUCCULENT PLANTS AND POTTERY SALE Four local plant vendors and a master ceramicist collaborate on a great outdoor event, with an amazing lineup of succulent plants, house plants, and gorgeous handmade pots. Benefits both Feline Network and Shiloh’s Pet Rescue. July 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and July 7 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-6027817. Los Osos Valley Nursery, 301 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos.

WATERFRONT MARKET MORRO BAY

Come show your favorite local vendor some love this 4th of July weekend. With everything from candles, clothing and accessories, jewelry, and so much more. July

5 10 a.m.-5 p.m., July 6 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and July 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

805-402-9437. Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays 805-922-1468. costadeorowines.com.

Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE

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

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. presquilewine.com/ club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, 805-937-8110.

SECOND SATURDAY OPEN AIR MARKET:

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

SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

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

THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY STARS, STRIPES, AND SAVORY BITES This weekend of festivities includes brunches, lunches, dinner, hikes, yoga, biking, and more. Through July 7 aubergeresorts.com/matteistavern/ itineraries/july-fourth/. Mattei’s Tavern, 2350 Railway Ave., Los Olivos. LOMPOC/VANDENBERG HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave, Lompoc. PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT MELVILLE ESTATE WINERY Provides a beautiful, stress-free environment that will both inspire your creative spirit and indulge the wine-lover in you. A trained artist will walk you through the entire painting process step-by-step. July 14 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $89. artspotonwheels. com/events/ painting-in-thevineyard-atmelville/. Melville Estate Winery, 5185 E. Hwy 246, Lompoc, 805-735-7030.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AVILA BEACH 4TH OF JULY PANCAKE

BREAKFAST Enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast prepared by members of the Board of Directors of the Avila Beach Civic Association and volunteers that consists of pancakes, bacon or sausage, fruit, orange juice, milk, and coffee. July 4 , 8:30-11 a.m. my805tix.com. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach.

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo. PIÑATAS ON THE PATIO What is more festive than a piñata? Join for some brunch drinks and a couple of good hits to a piñata (or two). Good times and goofy prices promised. Turns will be determined on a first come, first served basis. First Sunday of every month Free. Rambling Spirits, 3845 S. Higuera St. (inside SLO Public Market), San Luis Obispo, drinkramblingspirits.com.

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

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

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

FREE JAZZ CONCERT AT THE SM TOWN CENTER MALL Central City Swing, a 17-piece jazz band featuring some of the area’s top musicians, will perform a free concert of swing and jazz music at the Santa Maria Town Center Mall.

July 11 6-7:30 p.m. Free. 805-720-3840. centralcityswing.com. Santa Maria Town Center, 142 Town Center East, Santa Maria.

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

INDEPENDENCE DAY WEEKEND KICK

OFF PARTY VIP cabanas available for sale. You are welcome to bring your own chairs (no outside food or beverages).

July 5 , 4-9 p.m. my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777.

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

LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR

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

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

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY

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

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

WHOLE LOTTA ROSIES AND STRANGLEHOLD Tributes to AC/DC and Ted Nugent. July 13 5 p.m. my805tix.com/. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

AIR SUPPLY LIVE Held in the resort’s Samala Showroom, this concert is part of the Australian soft rock duo’s The Lost in Love Experience Tour. July 12 8 p.m. $49-$79. chumashcasino.com. Chumash Casino Resort, 3400 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez, 800-248-6274.

AMANDA CASTRO LIVE Castro specializes in New Orleans-style jazz. July 14 3 p.m. $37. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.

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

MUSIC IN THE GARDEN This ongoing summer concert series spotlights a variety of musical acts. Afternoon performances held on various Sunday afternoons throughout the summer. Through Sept. 1 Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.

RED, WHITE, AND BLUES Features live music from the Doublewide Kings, a complimentary glass of wine, exclusive bottle specials, tacos and barbecue dishes available for purchase, and more. July 6 3-6 p.m. $65-$75. buttonwoodwinery. com/. Buttonwood Winery, 1500 Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang, 805-688-3032.

Glasshead Studio in Atascadero hosts its Glass Shard Collage Class on Wednesday, July 10, from 10 a.m. to noon. Attendees will create their own sun catcher using colorful shards of glass and are welcome to bring their own images for inspiration if desired. Admission to the workshop is $55. Call (805) 464-2633 or visit glassheadstudio. com to find out more about the event.

—C.W

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

2024 LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE

CONCERT SERIES These Saturday afternoon concerts are limited and will sell out, so make your purchase early to secure your spot. Saturdays, 2:30-5 p.m. through Oct. 12 my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach. BRASS MASH AT RIBLINE BY THE BEACH A special night of brass, dancing, and singing mayhem. July 6 7:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Ribline by the Beach, 395 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

GROVER BEACH SUMMER CONCERTS

2024 Featuring some of best local and regional bands all summer long. Food, craft vendors, and activities for the kids. Free and all ages welcome. Sundays, 3-6 p.m. through Aug. 18 Free. 805-473-4580. groverbeach.org. Ramona Garden Park Center, 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.

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

LIVE ON THE ROCKS: INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH VINTAGE RENEGADES

Celebrate the summer and America with the Live on the Rocks concert on the iconic Cliffs Hotel and Spa lawn. Join for great vibes and a few surprises to

celebrate the 4th of July. July 4 1-5 p.m. Free. 805-773-5000. cliffshotelandspa. com/cliffs_events/. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BRASS MASH: FIRST FRIDAY First Fridays are magical nights filled with the vibrant energy of our all-horn band. Join the festivities at Liquid Gravity and immerse yourself in the unique fusion of your favorite rock and pop songs. First Friday of every month, 6-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, San Luis Obispo.

THE BROOK’S BURGERS BOOGIE WITH THE CLIFFNOTES The Cliffnotes are bringing their Buns of Fun Boogie to Brook’s Burgers on Tank Farm Road in SLO.

Their New Orleans-flavored rock music is bound to “get your buns shaking” on the dance floor. July 6 1-3 p.m. Free entry. 805-439-3093. brooksburgersca.com/. Brooks Burgers, 134 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo.

C-KAN LIVE AT THE FREMONT THEATER C-Kan performing live at the Fremont Theater on July 9 with special guests Neto Peña, Yoss Bones, and Toser One. All ages. July 9, 8 p.m. $30 to $75. fremontslo.com. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that is easy to listen to but also surprises. July 6, 7-9 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com/. Benny’s Pizza Palace and Social Club, 1601 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-3838.

MUSIC ON THE FARM WITH MISS LEO (SESSION 1) Family involvement music classes with Miss Leo. Come enjoy an hour and a half of music education and nature connection with credentialed music educator, local musician, and nature lover, Miss Leo. With three classes for ages 3 to 7. Wednesdays. through July 10 $100. missleomusic.com/education. City Farm SLO, 1221 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, 805-769-8344.

RESINATION AND KENNY TAYLOR: CONCERTS IN THE PLAZA Free live music. Family-friendly. Food/drink available. Free bike valet parking. July 5 5-8 p.m. Free. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

4TH OF JULY FAMILY FUN DAY WITH RIFF TIDE Enjoy a fabulous day with a patriotic bike parade, exciting lawn games, food, drinks, and live music from Riff Tide. July 4 2-5 p.m. Free. 805-210-9698. Tidelands Park, 339 Embarcadero, Morro

ARTS BRIEFS

Mid-July marks the debut of the Great American Melodrama’s Gunsmokin’

The Great American Melodrama in Oceano presents its production of Gunsmokin’, which opens on Friday, July 12. Performances of the new show are scheduled to run at the theater through Saturday, Sept. 7.

Set in the town of Rooster Punch, the play follows various locals who fear they won’t be able to afford tax increases in conjunction with an upcoming railroad project. With an aim to take advantage of the situation, saloon owner Perky Lapett offers to buy everyone’s land and rent it back to them at “an affordable rate.”

The citizens of Rooster Punch are hesitant to turn down Lapett’s offer, especially without the protection of any law enforcement, as the town has a repeated history of sheriffs getting murdered almost immediately after getting elected.

But a new hope emerges when a local woman named Kit sets to out to break this morbid trend by running for sheriff with a platform “to protect the good people of Rooster Punch and their land,” according to press materials.

Thirty minutes prior to each performance of Gunsmokin’ , the Great American Melodrama’s popular snack bar opens for attendees to enjoy, and reopens during each of the show’s intermission breaks. The snack bar’s menu includes popcorn, hot dogs, nachos, soda, beer, and other offerings.

General admission to the play ranges between $32 and $38, with discounts available for children (ages 12 and under), students (ages 13 to 18), seniors (ages 62 and older), and active and retired military.

Tickets to Gunsmokin’ can be purchased online at americanmelodrama.com or in person at the Great American Melodrama’s box office, which is open Wednesday through Saturday, from noon to 5:30 p.m., and every Sunday, from noon to 4:30 p.m.

To find out more about the theater and its rotating lineup of shows, call (805) 489-2499 or visit americanmelodrama. com. Other upcoming productions at the Great American Melodrama include Werewolf of Arroyo Grande (Friday, Sept. 13, through Saturday, Nov. 9) and The Holiday Extravaganza (Friday, Nov. 15, through Tuesday, Dec. 31).

Oceano Seabreeze Market highlights local artisans, crafters, and more

Discover Oceano hosts the Oceano Seabreeze Market on Saturday, July 13, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Oceano Train Depot. Attendees will have the chance to buy or browse selections of handcrafted goods and other items from local artists and curators. Admission is free. Visit discoveroceanoca.com for more details. m

Multiple muses

Watercolor Creations highlights Claudette Carlton’s eclectic paintings in Lompoc

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

When you see a student’s name on a chalkboard, it’s not a stretch to assume they’re staying after class for detention.

While spitballers and daydreamers caught unawares during popcorn reading often earn this distinction, retired teacher Claudette Carlton didn’t discriminate between her eighth grade students when she’d chalk out full portraits of them.

“If we had a little time at the end of the period, they’d come up to me at the chalkboard and I’d sketch them,” said Carlton, who used the activity to occupy mundane moments when there was nothing left to do for her students but wait for the bell to ring.

“It kept everybody entertained for the last five minutes of the period,” she recalled.

Shortly after retiring from her teaching job at Vandenberg Middle School, Carlton took up the art form she’s widely known for nowadays: watercolor painting. An avid pencil sketcher at the time, Carlton was looking to add some color to her drawings when she enrolled in a watercolor class at Allan Hancock College about 12 years ago.

“It just took off from there,” said Carlton, who has a new solo exhibition of watercolors up at Cypress Gallery in Lompoc.

The exhibit, titled Watercolor Creations, opened in late June and will remain on display through Sunday, July

28. The public will have the chance to meet Carlton at a special artist reception, slated for Saturday, July 13, from 1 to 3 p.m., at the gallery.

In August, Carlton plans to lead two watercolor workshops at Cypress as well. She’s been a member of the gallery for about six years. Her watercolor works currently hanging at the venue range between various subjects and settings, all of which she captured in her private studio space in her Lompoc home.

“It’s a bedroom that I created into a studio,” Carlton said. “It’s really nice. My husband put pegboard material on several of the walls so that I can hang my paintings and move them around.”

Depending on the scope of a project, Carlton can spend anywhere between half an hour to four weeks on a single watercolor painting.

“The way I do watercolor doesn’t lend itself to just splashing paint. I

Summer hues

The Lompoc Valley Art Association presents Watercolor Creations, a solo exhibit of paintings by Claudette Carlton, at Cypress Gallery in Lompoc through Sunday, July 28. An art reception will be held on Saturday, July 13, from 1 to 3 p.m. Visit lompocart.org to find out more. The gallery is located at 119 E. Cypress Ave., Lompoc.

have to be meticulous about how I plot it out,” Carlton said. “There’s a lot of layering that goes on. ... You have to let things dry in between.

“It doesn’t mean you have to take a long, long time. It depends on the subject matter and how detailed it is,” she added. “I have a little piece that’s in the gallery right now that I did in 30 minutes. ... Some of them are fast.”

Examples of Carlton’s most time-consuming pieces include large panoramas of missions in California. Many of her paintings are based around historical buildings, such as the Santa Maria Valley’s San Ramon Chapel and Lompoc’s Artesia School Museum.

What draws her to these settings? As an artist and former history teacher, Carlton said she finds these sites appealing for reasons beyond their unique architectural qualities.

“It’s not the building as much as the people that went in and out of that building,” Carlton said.

The artist’s new exhibit showcases her “playful” side as well, with whimsical illustrations of giraffes, penguins, and other creatures that look like pages plucked straight out of a children’s book.

With four children, 12 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, Carlton is no stranger to occasionally gifting her watercolor works away to family members. Having several of her own pieces stored away as well, Carlton joked that “they’re looking forward to when I die, so they can get it all.”

“Well, they’re not looking forward to when I die, but they know they’ve got a lot coming to them,” she clarified with a laugh. m

Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood wouldn’t mind inheriting a live penguin someday. Send comments to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

FILE PHOTO BY STEVE E. MILLER

COURTESY PHOTO BY BOB CARLTON

BEHIND THE SCENES: Lompoc resident Claudette Carlton has spent the past 12 years painting watercolors. She took up the art form shortly after retiring from her teaching job of 21 years.

WATERCOLOR BY THE WATER: Local watercolor painter Claudette Carlton’s works capture a variety of subjects and settings. A diverse collection of her pieces is currently on display at Cypress Gallery in Lompoc.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED: In one of her watercolor pieces on display at Cypress Gallery, artist Claudette Carlton captured Mission San Antonio de Padua in Monterey County.

Getting to know you

Writer-director Christy Hall in her featurelength debut helms this introspective drama about a woman (Dakota Johnson), simply listed as Girlie in the credits, engaging in a surprisingly deep conversation with her old school cab driver, Clark (Sean Penn), as he drives her from JFK to her midtown apartment, normally a short trip prolonged by an accident on the freeway. (101-min.)

Editor’s note: Anna Starkey took the week off, so Glen’s friend Chuck Maxie stepped in.

Glen: For me, the oddest thing about this film is coming away with the feeling that I really liked both these characters, because they’re both deeply flawed. She’s having an affair with a married man. He’s sort of a knuckle-dragging man’s man. She likes to believe she can stand up for herself, but we see her capitulate in her text message interactions with her needy and frankly gross lover. He believes he’s a sage dispenser of wisdom, but what passes for insight often amounts to misogyny. And yet these two strangers have redeeming qualities, and in their own ways, they truly help one another work through their respective emotional baggage. The message seems to be, “people are complicated,” and Christy Hall’s debut delivers a compelling dissection of two particular human beings’ many contradictions.

DADDIO

What’s it rated? R

a cab, and they’re in their own bubble for the most part. Yet, there is so much internal energy that counters their banter with a score card of sorts. Dakota Johnson, as the female lead, is fantastic! She showed depth and is quite funny, which is a tough act to balance. Sean Penn is a cinematic American icon, and he delivers again and again. He’s just interesting to watch and listen to as he pulls her out of her comfort zone, to put it mildly. It felt like the audience was witnessing a therapy session on wheels with the meter running and a destination that will end the session.

What’s it worth, Chuck? Full price

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande

Chuck: To me, it’s interesting that the film just hits the gas, and the characters develop as the film carries on. It’s shot at night in NYC, within

HORIZON: AN AMERICAN SAGA—CHAPTER 1

What’s it rated? R

When? 2024

Where’s it showing? Regal

Glen: A rolling therapy session is a good way to put it. Clark figures out pretty quickly that she’s texting with a married man, and though reluctant at first, she realizes she needs to talk about her mixed feelings, and who better than with a cabbie she’ll most likely never see again? As their conversation continues and deepens, they begin to challenge one another to reveal their hidden feelings—feelings perhaps even hidden from themselves. The acting is what sells this one-set drama. You can see the paternal concern in Clark’s eyes as he watches her from the rearview mirror, and when the camera focuses on her face as she reacts to his words and thoughts, you see a flood of complicated emotions wash over her. I knew going in that Penn is masterful, but watching Johnson was a revelation. There’s nothing for these two actors to hide behind. It’s a remarkable debut film.

Edwards RPX Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc, Fair Oaks, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande I’m a sucker for a good Western, and Kevin Costner is without question an icon of the genre. From Silverado (1985) to Dances with Wolves (1990) to Wyatt Earp (1994) to Open Range (2003), Costner proves to be an engaging storyteller of this most romanticized period of American history. In Horizon , he tackles a 15-year period of the pre- and post-Civil War era, focusing on westward expansion and manifest destiny. Like Dances with Wolves he tells the story from both the white colonizers and Native Americans’ perspectives, and thanks to its enormously long runtime—three hours in chapter 1 with three more chapters to go—it takes it time getting there. Heck, Costner’s character, horse trader Hayes Ellison, doesn’t even show up until the end of the first hour. Trying to summarize the sprawling plot would be a fool’s how utterly awful and unfair colonizing America was. It’s history, now, and Horizon isn’t interested in moralizing on such

Chuck: Thankfully, there’s no culminating event that bonds them for eternity or even tomorrow. That would have cheapened their time together and the film. I also appreciate that there was no FX or CGI. Just two people hashing out their baggage on a dark city night. A sort of psychological excavation where characters unearthed bygone treasures and heartbreak. Both characters hold back for some time, but when pressed, both characters eventually

PERFECT WIFE: THE MYSTERIOUS DISAPPEARANCE OF SHERRI PAPINI

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2024

Where’s it showing? Hulu

When Redding, California, wife and mother Sherri Papini went missing while out on a run, the world took notice. After all, Sherri was just the kind of missing person that gets media attention—a fairly affluent white woman with a seemingly healthy family life. Sherri’s husband, Keith, soon becomes the focus of the investigation, with seemingly erratic and emotional interviews with police and media.

The truth lies much deeper than an easy story of a husband covering bad deeds, however. What happened to Sherri, and what didn’t, unfolded after she showed up on the side of the road, tied and claiming to have been kidnapped by two Hispanic women who held her captive for 22 days. While the world assumed she was the victim of a trafficking kidnapping scheme, detectives began to circle in on the truth of her time away and what really happened to the woman who seemed to be slowly returning to her old self.

In three parts, this series relies heavily on interviews of those around Sherri, including Keith and her sister Sheila. The

pony up. When they do spill the beans, they’re actually helping themselves and each other. It’s not really one-upmanship, yet an attempt to clear the deck and cleanse some of their psyche’s clutter. In the end, yes, they are still flawed. Aren’t we all. m

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

wild ride. (Three 52- to 61-min. episodes) m

TALKING POINTS: Dakota Johnson stars as a woman taking a cab into NYC, who engages in a surprisingly frank conversation with her cabbie, in Daddio, screening in local theaters.

well-known but still baffling tale unravels Sherri’s pathology and the truth behind her crafted story, which proves to be a

SWEEPING EPIC: Kevin Costner directs, co-writes, and stars in his four-part western, Horizon: An American Saga—Chapter 1, screening in local theaters.

STRANGER THAN FICTION: In 2016, a 34-year-old housewife disappeared during a jog, only to turn up 22 days later with a tale of abduction. Hulu’s Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini reveals the truth.

Outside the sandbox

Jonata in the Ballard Canyon AVA celebrates its

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

The shifting sands of time have only enriched local winemaker Matt Dees’ outlook on grape cultivation at Jonata, which he said owes much of its success over the past 20 years to a soil-centric standard.

“While there are sandy vineyards all over the world, there are far fewer that are planted on pure sand like at Jonata,” Dees said in an email interview. “While sandy soils can be challenging due to their relatively low levels of nutrients and reduced water holding capacity, they allow the roots of the vines to dig deep.

Dees described the resulting wines at Jonata as “incredibly concentrated and deeply complex.”

“This is absolutely a direct effect from the sand,” said Dees, who has led Jonata’s winemaking team since the brand’s first wine release in 2004.

Twenty years—or 175,200 turns of a sandfilled hourglass—later, Jonata is marking its milestone anniversary with a celebration event on July 13 at The Barn at The Hilt Estate in Lompoc.

“We’ve raided our cellars and hand selected some of our most pinnacle bottlings, limited vintages, and large formats produced over the past two decades to share with attendees,” Dees said about the upcoming festivities.

Guests will also have access to preview

tastings of new wines on the way and food offerings from Buena Onda Empanadas and Full of Life Flatbread.

Reflecting on Jonata’s 20th anniversary, Dees said these past two decades working at the estate, a 600-acre property located in Ballard Canyon with 84 acres of vines and more than 14 planted grape varieties, breezed by at just the right speed.

“Time passes at the perfect pace when you find yourself working alongside exceptionally talented, passionate, and lovely people and working with world class vineyards,” Dees said.

“These first 20 years have been exceptional.

“When we first planted the property ... we

wanted to experiment and learn more about the potential of a wide spectrum of grapes in our area and property,” the winemaker recalled. “Our unique combination of warm

MEET THE MAKER: Matt Dees is the leading winemaker at Jonata, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year with upcoming festivities at The Barn at The Hilt Estate in Lompoc.

BRING ME A DREAM: One of the secrets to Jonata’s success as a wine producer is that its 14 grape varieties are planted in pure sand, local winemaker Matt Dees told the Sun

Bash at The Barn

Jonata, a Santa Ynez Valley-based wine producer, will host its 20th anniversary celebration event on Saturday, July 13, from 1 to 4 p.m., at The Barn at The Hilt Estate in Lompoc. Admission is $125 per person. Visit jonata.com for more info. The Barn at The Hilt Estate is located at 2240 Santa Rosa Road, Lompoc.

WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WINES: Cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, and sauvignon blanc are among the wine varieties available from Jonata, which cultivates more than a dozen grape varieties at its vineyard.

days, sandy soils, and cold nights allows us to grow so many varieties with success.”

Dees’ fascination with both soil and winemaking raises a variant of the age-old chicken or the egg question, to which he has a definitive answer.

“I started as a plant and soil geek. I’ve always felt an intense connection to plants. They always made sense to me. The wine bug came later,” said Dees, a University of Vermont alumnus with a degree in soil science. “It’s a perfect combination because between my love of plants and my love of wine I found the grapevine.”

While his career as a winemaker has taken Dees to work on vintages in other areas around the state and outside the country, he was originally drawn to Santa Barbara County due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, which helps the area’s wines “combine the silky texture of California sunshine with a higher level of acidity,” he said.

Dees also described the region as encompassing a “Wild West spirit” where winemakers can feel comfortable pushing certain boundaries.

“It was and still is a place where we’re able to write our own rules,” Dees said. “After 20 years in the area, I am even more deeply in love with the unique textures and structures of the wines from this area.

“As we continue to mature as a vineyard, we are focusing in on what is working the best,” Dees added. “After the first 20 years, the picture is becoming clearer. At the same time, we are witnessing a changing climate and as farmers with a long-term view, we are exploring varieties that can thrive in a warmer climate and that have some stronger abilities to deal with dry conditions.”

Because of Jonata’s diverse range of grape varieties, some of which have a rare history of being cultivated side-by-side, Dees described the winery’s assortment as “a Noah’s ark of grapes.”

“Though it might seem like a scatter shot,” the winemaker said, “it is absolutely planted that way with intent and intense focus.” m Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood is hopping on that ark. Send hoppy comments to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.

DIVINE VINES: Jonata’s vines sprawl across a 600-acre estate in the Ballard Canyon AVA.

Home & Garden

from Santa Ynez to San Miguel Get your classified ad—for Free! Private parties may run FREE classified ads in the FOR SALE (items under $200) and GARAGE SALE sections for two weeks Contact us today! (805) 546-8208 or classifieds@santamariasun.com

deadline for stories for this year’s publications has ended. Thank you to everyone who entered.