Enter your song [7]
Los Olivos boarding school evacuates as the Lake Fire continues to spread [6]
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
Protecting Midland
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Midland School is no stranger to fire. Located on Figueroa Mountain Road in Los Olivos, the boarding high school holds regular fire drills and had a prescribed burn on campus just last fall. Its nearly 3,000 acres are home to year-round faculty members, 80 students, and dozens of animals. Before the rural school received mandatory evacuation orders as the Lake Fire grew, officials began retrieving valuables and relocating animals. Midland is now home to fire teams working to stop the 38,000-acre fire’s spread. Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor speaks with Midland faculty and staff and rounds up the latest stats on the Lake Fire [6]. This week, you can also read about who’s gearing up for the Santa Maria City Council race [4]; artwork depicting pillars of our society [22]; and the festival that celebrates Sta. Rita Hills wineries [25]
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• U.S. Sens. Laphonza Butler (D-California) and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) introduced the Keep Families Together Act, a legislation that would mandate immigration enforcement to prioritize keeping families together and provide guidelines to ensure they are kept together throughout the legal process, according to a July 11 statement from Butler’s office. In 2018, the Trump administration announced a policy of family separations, which resulted in more than 5,000 children being separated from their parents. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed a class-action lawsuit on behalf of separated families, Ms. L v. U.S. Immigration Customs and Enforcement, which ultimately resulted in a settlement agreement with the Biden administration. Despite the Biden administration’s Family Reunification Task Forces’ efforts, 2,000 children still have not been reunited with their parents, according to Butler’s office. “The Keep Families Together Act would ensure that our nation promotes family unity, rather than tearing them apart,” Butler said in the statement. Specifically, the legislation prohibits separating children from their parents at the U.S. border, except in extraordinary circumstances. It also mandates that the Department of Homeland Security create policies that enable parents and children to locate and reunite with one another if they are separated; consult with immigrant advocacy organizations, child welfare organizations, and state child welfare agencies when developing procedures; and require an annual report to Congress describing each instance when a child is separated from their parent or legal guardian.
• The New Democrat Coalition announced it endorsed 15 public safety bills, including the Filling Public Safety Vacancies Act, written by U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara), to help local police departments mitigate staffing shortages, according to a July 10 statement from Carbajal’s office. Specifically the bill provides an emergency boost to the federal grant program that provides funding to the departments for the purposes of recruitment and hiring. “Law enforcement officials keep our families, neighborhoods, and communities safe. While our departments are stepping up to combat crime, gun violence, the opioid epidemic, and natural disasters, they should not have to worry about not having the resources they need to recruit, vet, and hire officers they need on the beat,” Carbajal said in the statement. “I’m proud to earn the endorsement of my New Democrat Coalition colleagues on my commonsense legislation to invest in public safety for all of our communities. The Filling Public Safety Vacancies Act is bipartisan recognition that our departments need more help from the federal government after years of declining hiring and staff shortages.” With an infusion of an additional $162 million for the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program, the bill would double the amount of federal grant funding available for local departments this fiscal year, according to Carbajal’s office.
• Ramping up efforts to crack down on crime in the East Bay, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced an increase to the amount of California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers deployed in Oakland, according to a July 11 statement from the governor’s office. Through these efforts, Oakland has seen the recovery of 1,142 stolen cars, the seizure of 55 guns linked to crimes, and 562 arrests since February. As part of this CHP’s expanded operation, Newsom will quadruple the number of shifts officers conduct in Oakland and increase surge operations over the next four months in the city, providing a CHP presence in the city every day of the week. The operations, which were scheduled to begin July 15, will target organized crime, sideshows, carjackings, and other criminal activity seven days a week. CHP will refer certain complex cases to the Office of the Attorney General for prosecution. “While we are encouraged by some positive trends, the lawlessness we’re seeing on the streets of Oakland is unacceptable,” Newsom said in the statement. “Building on our partnership with local law enforcement, I’m deploying a new surge of CHP officers to help provide the people of Oakland and the East Bay the safety and security they deserve.” m
Maria Salguero to face Carlos Escobedo in Santa Maria Council race
Launching her campaign on July 16 at Santa Maria City Hall, Maria Salguero made her debut in local politics by running for Santa Maria City Council’s District 1 seat.
“What makes me particularly excited about running for District 1 at this time is that the stakes are very high at a national level; these elections are going to be a crucial tipping point,” Salguero told the Sun. “I think that this is time, literally now, to ensure and protect our communities from possible ramifications that can come from national elections.”
The Immigrant Legal Defense Center attorney moved to Santa Maria from Salinas when she was 9 years old and grew up in District 1—which now sits in north of E. Main Street (Highway 166) and in between District 1 and District 4. Salguero will be running against incumbent Carlos Escobedo, who’s registered as an Independent and is finishing his first four-year term on the dais.
The District 1 election is one of five local races in the Nov. 5 general election—with Mike Cordero’s District 2 and Alice Patino’s mayor at-large seats up for election as well as the city treasurer and city clerk roles going before voters this November, according to Santa Maria’s elections portal.
Voters can also expect to see bond measures for the Santa Maria-Bonita and Joint Union High School districts along with a countywide transient occupancy tax increase.
Salguero, a registered Democrat who’s endorsed by the Democratic Party for this race, said that she started preparing for the campaign last year to look at homelessness and housing affordability, supporting the city’s workforce and unions, the budget deficit, and growth and development “through a social justice lens.”
“I think we can do more, and I think I can contribute to that. I want to take the skills I have … and see how I can take these lived experiences and apply them to policy that affects the larger community,” Salguero said.
Specifically, Salguero wants to establish a homelessness task force dedicated to helping people experiencing homelessness find housing; allocate more of the city’s budget funds to address homelessness in the community; and prioritize infill development as opposed to expanding into prime ag land. She added that she wants to see the city prioritize its union negotiations, particularly with the Firefighters Union Local 2020.
“What I’ve been seeing with the firefighters and their negotiations with the city, it makes little sense why we as a city are not prioritizing paying our firefighters average pay,” she said. “One of the things I aim to do is to restore these relationships the council has with the employees because a lot of relationships are strained.”
Both Salguero and Escobedo said that it’s important for the city to explore all avenues within the budget to make up for the current $21 million deficit. Escobedo dissented during the City Council’s June 27 meeting that discussed the budget because he wanted the city to be more proactive with finding solutions to save money rather than dipping into reserves.
“We need to look inwards because they [city staff] started talking about increasing taxes and at this time our community, we’re hurt by inflation, and the government usually finds [that] the way to fix issues is to raise taxes,” Escobedo told the Sun. “But that’s not what my constituents want.”
Alongside closing the budget gap, Escobedo said he wants to prioritize public safety and quality of life, and housing and homelessness. Particularly, he wants to prioritize developments that allow for homeownership.
“People have been asking about homeownership since [I] began. It’s a constant challenge, there are so many barriers,” Escobedo said. “We need rentals, but people are looking to generate generational wealth, to own a place, and take care of it.”
While it’s challenging to push for ownership opportunities, he added that he’s been able to support a few—including the People’s Self-Help Housing development on the former Hi-Way Drive-In property.
Regarding homelessness, Escobedo said he’s been supportive of housing near his district and is working with both Santa Barbara and SLO counties to help reduce the number of people in the Santa Maria Riverbed.
“Even though it’s not in my jurisdiction, per se, I don’t like to dismiss the problem or blame the jurisdictions because people don’t want to hear that, people want action,” he said.
—Taylor O’Connor
Guadalupe addresses illegal fireworks stats after PRA request
An email thread between a former Guadalupe mayor and current city leaders on illegal fireworks kindled public attention less than 48 hours after the convo began.
On July 8, Guadalupe resident Frances Romero copied a handful of city staffers and elected officials on a Public Records Act (PRA) request regarding information on illegal fireworks citations issued in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. The following day, Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety Michael Cash included the request in a report presented to the Guadalupe City Council.
“It is ridiculous that this illegal activity persists year after year, getting progressively worse,” Romero wrote in one of the emails, included as items distributed during the City Council’s July 9 meeting.
“We have historically had to exit our home for the weekend closest to [July 4] for many years for the sanity of our dogs,” said Romero, who also recounted past dog kenneling fees in the email. “We should not have to incur these expenses and inconveniences because of the city’s lack of action.”
In Romero’s first message, the former mayor included “PRA Request” in the subject line and asked how many illegal fireworks citations were issued each year between 2021 and 2024 and how many of the fines dated between 2021 and 2023 were paid in full.
“I would have thought that since prior to 2020 this topic has been raised ... that this information would have already been tracked,” Romero said in a separate email after Cash replied that compiling the requested info could take more than 10 days.
“If you don’t measure outcomes, how can you determine if you are achieving anything?” Romero wrote in the same message.
At the City Council’s July 9 meeting, Cash addressed Romero’s initial questions and said that 24 illegal fireworks citations were issued in Guadalupe between 2021 and 2023. Fourteen citations have been paid in full, while nine remain “in collections,” said Cash, who added that the fines are $1,000 each.
One citation in 2022 was dismissed, according to the staff report.
Thanks to recently reviewed drone footage, Cash added that 15 citations will be issued in response to illegal fireworks that were lit in Guadalupe on July 4 this year.
“Some people think that we go and give a ticket directly to the people. We’ve tried that before and ... usually it comes to a confrontation,” Cash said at the July 9 meeting.
“There’s a lot of people drinking that night. … People are barbecuing. They’re in their driveways. Between 20 and 30 people are there, and you can only imagine if we tried to make a physical arrest with only two officers,” Cash added. “It is unsafe.”
Cash explained that Guadalupe’s police department uses a drone “to pinpoint what the activity is, and then we send letters of compliance to the houses” where illegal fireworks are spotted.
“That’s how we do the enforcement,” Cash said. “That way we don’t have confrontations, and we’re there to deal with ... if there’s any fires or anything else as far as public safety [on July 4].”
While able to catch footage of fireworks at night, Guadalupe’s police drone is usually restricted to day use, Cash explained.
“We’re going to be asking [the Finance Department] for a night drone. The drone we have is for daytime and doesn’t have lights,” Cash said. “So, we can’t really see a whole lot when it gets super dark, unless people light things up.” —Caleb Wiseblood
County union members advocate for higher wages for future contracts
Santa Barbara County Public Works employee Angel Lopez had to relocate to Lompoc after living in Santa Barbara his whole life because he’s struggling to keep up with the cost of living in
NEW FACE: Immigration attorney Maria Salguero (left) threw her hat into the ring for the Santa Maria City Council District 1 race, facing incumbent Carlos Escobedo (right) during the November 2024 general election.
his hometown, he told the Board of Supervisors during its July 16 meeting.
“It’s getting rough out here, too. I don’t want to move to Bakersfield,” he said during public comment. “There’s nothing wrong with Bakersfield, but I like it here.”
Lopez was one of about 100 of the county’s Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 620 employees advocating for a cost of living adjustment that aligned with inflation. The Local 620 represents 2,800 Santa Barbara County employees across all departments in the county and about 3,800 on the Central Coast, interim Executive Director Laura Robinson told the Sun.
“We’ve had enough. We are at a breaking point, we are in crisis mode,” Robinson said.
The union came back to the supervisors chambers on July 16 after attending the July 9 meeting demanding cost of living adjustments and benefits that kept up with inflation. The current contract expired on June 23, and the union claims that the new contract failed to provide a cost of living adjustment that aligns with inflation, according to a statement from the union.
“Despite only a 7.5 percent COLA [cost of living adjustment] over the term of the last three-year contract, inflation has risen over 15 percent, exacerbating the financial strain on our members,” the statement read. “The county’s most recent offer neglects to address this disparity, offering significantly lower COLA than what was granted to all elected officials and department heads, who received a 5.0 percent increase in just one year.”
Robinson added that county executives and elected officials are also scheduled to receive a 3.2 percent consumer price index
(CPI) increase in October.
“Both of [the county’s] offers are less than that for Local 620. It’s under 5 percent and under 3 percent next year when they’re entitled to 3.2 percent. Everything they are offering is lower than what they are entitled to,” she said.
During the July 9 meeting, 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino said that the supervisors could claim no more than 3 percent. However, during the May 9, 2023, hearing, the supervisors voted 4-1 (with 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson dissenting) to increase supervisors’ cap on available salary increases from 3 percent to 5 percent and provide a 5 percent salary increase effective Sept. 18, 2023, according to the meeting minutes.
The SEIU has issued its last, best, and final offer of 12 percent increase over three years, while the county holds its offer at 10.5 percent, likely pushing negotiations to mediation, Robinson said.
“I’m happy the membership showed up. It’s unfortunate that two supervisors [Nelson and Lavagnino] weren’t present today, even though they are going on a monthslong recess … it’s frustrating,” she said. “Which is another point: They go black until Aug. 20, so we’ll be at a bare minimum contract until then, probably longer.”
Santa Barbara County Public Information Officer Kelsey Gerckens Buttitta told the Sun in a statement that the county respects its employee organizations’ right to advocate on behalf of their members and that the county is actively engaged in ongoing negotiations with SEIU.
“We are hopeful that we will be able to close the gap between us and reach an agreement that is acceptable to both parties, as we have with other bargaining groups,” Gerckens Buttitta said. m
—Taylor O’Connor
A brief story, fifty-five words or less, with a headline no longer than seven words.
Entries to our annual 55 Fiction writing contest are accepted all year long.
The deadline for stories for this year’s publications has ended. Thank you to everyone who entered. Winning stories will be published on July 25, 2024
In the zone
Midland School evacuates in the face of the Lake Fire
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
Before Midland School received mandatory evacuation orders for the Lake Fire, Midland Dean of Academics Ellie Moore drove back to the property several times to retrieve photos and memorabilia from fellow faculty members’ homes on campus, Moore told the Sun.
“Everything else is so rehearsed, but going on FaceTime with my coworkers and saying, ‘Take my mother’s ashes, and photos of my siblings,’” Moore said. “It’s pretty surreal to do. That was the strangest part.”
Founded in 1932, Midland is a boarding high school on Figueroa Mountain Road in Los Olivos with about 80 students living on campus full-time during the school year and several faculty members who live on campus year round, including Moore, she said. The 3,000-acre property sits on the edge of the San Rafael wilderness and adjacent to Figueroa Mountain. The school’s 20-acre farm is home to 21 horses, 16 cattle, and 60 to 80 chickens.
With the campus evacuated as of July 7, teams have been using Midland School’s dormitories and cafeteria as shelter and its soccer fields as a staging area to assist with fire suppression.
While Midland’s faced wildfires throughout the years and the school holds regular fire drills, “it’s an anomaly to go through this in the summer,” Moore said.
“It’s more challenging to deal with evacuating … in worst-case scenarios because we have fewer hands on deck,” she said.
The Lake Fire ignited near Zaca Lake on July 5 and has burned more than 38,000 acres, damaged four structures, and caused six injuries. The blaze was 38 percent contained as of July 15, and it’s one of more than 3,800 wildfires burning across the state.
“The fire behavior is active with some longrange spotting, and parts of the fire are moving into areas with no recorded fire history,” according to Cal Fire.
11 as conditions improved, Scroggin said.
“We are closely monitoring the progress of fighting the fire, closely monitoring things like air quality, evacuation zones, and evacuation warning zones,” Scroggin said. “We’ve communicated with all of our members and have updates on our website and via email each day to let them know that programming is moving forward as planned.”
Midland School Horse Program and Rangeland Conservation Director Regina Butala told the Sun that she was at the school’s barn when she saw the plume of smoke from the fire’s early days.
“We’ve had previous fires so we are well-acquainted with the risk and have plenty of evacuation plans,” Butala said. “I had to get all of my volunteers on standby for our horses; we needed to do it early because of that many animals.”
For more details: bit.ly/55Fiction
Santa Barbara County Executive Officer Mona Miyasato proclaimed a local emergency to ensure that all county resources are available for Lake Fire control efforts due to its threats to Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, and surrounding farms, ranches, homes, campgrounds, and state routes 154 and 176, according to a July 12 statement from Santa Barbara County.
“The July 2024 Lake Fire is still burning and continuing to create dangerous conditions to the safety and well-being of persons and property
within Santa Barbara County. In addition, the longer this emergency goes on, the greater impact it will have on the economy of our county,” Miyasato said in the statement.
While the 2007 Zaca Lake burn scar sits nearby, 17 years of recovery, two years of heavy rainfall, and two minimal wildfire seasons have created historic levels of grass and chaparral, leaving room for the fire to spread rapidly without running into old burn scars and dying out, according to previous Sun reporting.
More than 3,207 fire personnel were split into a North Zone and a South Zone to ensure that strategic, logistical, and operational functions are met as the fire grows in complexity, according to Cal Fire.
The North Zone is focused on holding the fire at the Sisquoc River and along Zaca Ridge to the east, according to Inciweb, a database that tracks wildfires. The South Zone has created buffer zones in the fire areas to control lines and prevent the fire from traveling farther south into residential areas.
The fire has continued southeast through the Davey Brown, Ranger Peak, and Goat Rock areas.
Approximately 2,166 people within the evacuation warning and order areas have been impacted by the Lake Fire.
Moore left her home on Midland School property at 12:30 a.m. on July 7 after the fire crested the ridgeline and burned into the school’s backyard, she said.
“We hadn’t been given a mandatory evacuation, but I was worried about what that looks like in the middle of the night with the fire being close to our Wi-Fi towers,” she said. “We decided to ring the bell and evacuate at that point.”
Following
Midland faculty living on campus arrived at the Dunn School, a Los Olivos-based boarding school, at 1:30 a.m., she said.
“I’m currently in the dorms at Dunn with other displaced faculty at Midland, and the rest of us are scattered throughout the valley,” Moore said on July 8.
JD Scroggin, Dunn School director of marketing and communication, told the Sun that “it’s heartwarming for us to be able to offer help to these friends and services during a tough time.”
While Dunn School is not in an evacuation area as of July 16, the school paused its summer programming on July 10 due to air quality concerns, but they resumed on July
They transported horses to four different farms in the Santa Ynez area, and cattle were put in pastures with low vegetation and plenty of water, she said. The school had a prescribed burn on campus last fall to help with vegetation management, which burned about 280 acres, according to the county Air Pollution Control District.
“Since it happened so recently, we were really happy because it reduced our fuel load right on campus,” Butala said. “For this fire, I believe that presumptive management really helped probably reduce the risk for the spread of fire onto campus.” Butala and two other faculty have an agricultural pass that allows them to travel back to the school site to irrigate crops and tend to animals remaining on campus, she said.
“We’ve done all that we can at this point—we’ve evacuated campus, horses are in safety, we’ve turned off important propane lines,” Butala said. “It’s just a sit and wait now, and we just have our trust in the fire department to protect the structures as they can.”
Hannah Nelson was in Indiana when Butala called her about the fire on July 5—five days after her first day on the job as head of Midland, Nelson told the Sun.
“I think one of my strengths is being able to act really calm in an emergency situation, being able to step back, see the big picture, being able to delegate and talk to people about what roles they need to do, asking questions,” Nelson said. “Now, the emergency itself is terrifying, right? Like we’re talking about losing land, potentially losing homes, all of these things that [are] so hard.”
Hailing from Longmont, Colorado, and having worked as a site incident manager, Nelson said that her background in emergency management and wildfire knowledge gave her a strong base knowledge immediately stepping into managing Midland’s emergency.
Nelson arrived in Los Olivos on July 11 to help with risk management, and she has been consistently communicating with parents and giving updates, she said.
“I don’t know what the first planned communication to the community would have been if the fire hadn’t happened,” Nelson said. “But then, those communications, it’s been an opportunity for me to connect to ... different big things that I’m seeing in general with the community, thanking them, appreciating them for this outpouring of support. … But then thinking about and connecting to the foundation of the school.” m
Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor can be reached at toconnor@santamariasun.com.
PROTECTING MIDLAND: After the 2024 Lake Fire ignited July 5, it’s grown to encompass more than 38,000 acres of land and has caused hundreds of people to evacuate, including faculty and staff at Midland School in Los Olivos.
ENTER YOUR MUSIC NOW!
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Enter to win amazing prizes including a custom NTMA Newtie, your name/band name on all NTMA merch, and a performing spot at the New Times Music Awards and Showcase at SLO Brew Rock on Friday, November 8, 2024.
GENERAL RULES
Entries must be received between Thursday, July 18, 2024 and Monday, August 5, 2024 by 5 p.m. , to be considered for the 2024 New Times Music Awards (NTMA).
• $20 entry fee for each song, songwriter, and album entry.
Enter 3 songs and get the 4th FREE, or enter 5 songs and get the 6th FREE.
Participants may enter a maximum of 13 songs (10 genre category, 3 songwriting category) and 1 album.
ONLINE ENTRIES ARE PREFERRED FOR SONGS Fill out the entry form, upload songs, and pay for your entries with a credit card at NewTimesSLO.com. Best Album entries must be entered in person or by mail.
If you wish to pay with cash or check, you may drop off your entries at either the New Times or Sun offices. Bring your music entries on a CD or USB drive along with your completed entry form. Checks should be made payable to “New Times.”
All entrants must reside primarily in San Luis Obispo County or Northern Santa Barbara County.
All entrants must be able to play at the showcase event at SLO Brew Rock in San Luis Obispo on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024.
All entrants under 18 years of age must select the Youth category and must have a parent or guardian sign the entry form.
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Songs may have multiple co-writers, but please designate one contact name only on entry form.
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Songs will be judged on overall performance.
Live performers will share the ‘Back Line.’
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The New Times Music Awards Showcase and Competition is an all-ages show. Performers agree to eliminate explicit lyrics during their performance.
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The Open genre includes reggae, world beat, jazz, classical, new age, electronic, etc.
Each song submission must have a genre selected. If nothing is selected, the song will go into the Open genre. If judges determine a song to be a better fit with a different genre category than what was originally submitted, they reserve the right to recategorize it.
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Upload a .txt or .doc file or include a printout of lyrics with your entry.
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Albums must have been released between November 4, 2023 and July 18, 2024 to be eligible. Please deliver a hard copy to either the New Times or Sun office along with a completed entry form by 5 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024 for consideration. The entire presentation will be judged, including quality of songs, sound, and packaging.
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LOCAL LEGEND AWARD NOMINEE
The Local Legend Award recognizes an individual or group who has contributed to help enrich, support, and further music’s reach in our community; someone whose ideas, inspiration, and dedication to this art scene have helped nurture and grow the music scene—whether it’s bringing new sounds to the area or giving people the tools they need to create their own. We would love your input! Please use this space to nominate an individual, group, or organization you feel should be considered for this award:
I certify that I am the writer or co-writer of the song(s) or lyrics submitted. I also certify that I have read, understood, and accept the rules and regulations of the New Times Music Awards. If entrant is under 18 years old, the signature of a parent or guardian is required.
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Finding passions
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
Since high schoolers often need volunteer hours in order to graduate, Youthwell provides resources to help connect teens and youth with nonprofit organizations that pique their interests while meeting their extracurricular requirements, Executive Director Rachael Steidl said.
“The idea is so that volunteering doesn’t become a checklist item. We know volunteering can improve stress and mental health—not when it’s done as an obligation, but something meaningful and it’s something you’re passionate about,” Steidl said.
Youthwell started in 2016 as a community collaborative, working with partner organizations to figure out better responses to family needs when it came to youth mental health.
“A big part of what Youthwell does is partnership in our community to make sure we’re leveraging resources available for families,” Steidl said.
Nearly eight years later, Youthwell now works with more than 60 community stakeholders to improve youth mental health; provides a resource directory to help people find treatment programs, crisis helplines, therapists, and aftercare resources; and hosts free virtual workshops for students ages 10 to 25, parents, and teachers to learn mental wellness tools.
“We have resource navigators that can meet with families to help them determine what services would be helpful for their youth,” Steidl said.
Along with providing the volunteer directory, Youthwell is recruiting Santa Maria high schoolers to sit on its Youth Advisory Board, she said.
“That’s a one-year internship, an opportunity to come learn how to do advocacy work and leadership work in youth mental wellness both on our campuses and in the community,” Steidl said. “I think it’s really beneficial for all students to
have an internship at some point—whether it’s with our youth advisory board or another opportunity— because it’s a chance for students to learn more about themselves and what they are interested in. ... There’s just incredible benefits to volunteering and interning while you’re in high school.”
Students on the board will campaign on their campuses and in their communities to promote mental wellness and available resources. In November, they’ll help coordinate a youth summit, scheduled for Nov. 16, for students countywide where they will hear from panels of mental wellness experts and have breakout sessions with their peers.
Also in November, students will have the opportunity to hear from more than 20 Santa Barbara organizations about meaningful ways to volunteer, she added. From animal care to health and human services, this is a chance to see all of the different paths students can take.
“It’s giving lists, but also providing information so they can find the things that matter to them,” Steidl said.
Visit youthwell.org to find its list of volunteer opportunities, the Youth Advisory Board application, and additional mental wellness resources.
Highlights
• The city of Santa Maria is hosting a blood drive from noon to 4 p.m. on July 31 in the Vitalant bloodmobile in the parking lot between the lawn bowling green and the Paul Nelson Aquatics Center along South McClelland Street. While donations of all blood types are encouraged, donors with O-negative blood are especially needed, because O-negative red cells can be transfused to anyone. O-negative red blood cells are often used to help patients when there is no time to determine the patient’s blood type. According to Vitalant, blood donation is a community responsibility—donated blood can help a family member, a friend, a surgery patient, someone with cancer, a burn victim, or a newborn. Visit donors.vitalant.org to schedule an appointment or sign up as a donor. Bring a photo ID to the donation. Direct questions to Vitalant at (877) 258-4825 or to the city at (805) 925-0951, Ext. 2372.
• The Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District announced the relaunch of the Landscape Equipment Electrification Fund (LEEF) program. The program will allocate $300,000 to businesses, public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and public schools to trade in gasoline or diesel landscape equipment and purchase electric-powered equipment. Funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible organizations can receive up to $700 for chainsaws, trimmers, edgers, and brush cutters; $1,400 for leaf blowers and vacuums; $1,500 for walk-behind mowers; and $15,000 for ride-on and stand/sit mowers. Visit ourair.org/ LEEFprogram for more information and links to application materials. Direct questions to leefprogram@ sbcapcd.org. m
Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.
VOLUNTEER HOURS: To help high schoolers complete needed volunteer hours to meet graduation requirements, Youthwell created a volunteer directory that showcases more than 60 local organizations seeking additional helping hands.
Would you evacuate early if there was a wildfire in your area?
37% I would wait until I received an evacuation order.
27% I would hate to leave my house, but I’d leave if necessary.
27% I would leave as soon as I learned there was a wildfire anywhere near my property.
9% If I had a place to stay and felt prepared. 11 Votes Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.
Northern Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly 801 S Broadway Suite 3 Santa Maria, CA 93454
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Joe: You have one job
The center must hold if there’s any hope for the presidential election
BY JOHN ASHBAUGH
In November 2016, immediately after Donald Trump’s election, Yeats’ famous lament over the apocalyptic carnage of World War I seemed to capture that moment in our history.
Of course, our nation survived the next four years. The “centre” did hold, but just barely: On Jan. 6, 2021, for hours “mere anarchy” was loosed upon the nation’s Capitol. Police tried desperately to protect the vice president and the Congress against a “blood-dimmed tide” seeking to overturn the election. Blood flowed freely in the Capitol as Trump sat on his hands in the White House, cheering on his Proud Boys storming the barricades.
Somehow, Congress mustered the courage to perform its Constitutional duty to certify the Electoral College vote. Two weeks later, Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath to a new president—Joseph Robinette Biden. The center had held, at least for the next four years.
Just this month, the center also held in two of our major European allies: In the United Kingdom, the Labour Party won a resounding victory, promising to restore essential services that had been devastated by 14 years of conservative neglect. In France, an alliance of left/center parties prevented a far-right takeover of their National Assembly.
President Joe Biden had fashioned his 2020 victory by affirming centrist economic policies, promising to build the economy “from the bottom up and the middle out.” The results have been impressive: Inflation fell by two-thirds, solid wage growth actually exceeded inflation, and employment is at record highs. By all accounts, Joe Biden should be sailing to a second term with the wind at his back.
And yet, for too many Americans, Biden’s message just isn’t selling. Even before his disastrous appearance at the CNN “debate” on June 27, in most polls Biden was within the margin-of-error at best, especially in the key battleground states.
How is this even possible?
In today’s distorted media environment, it’s not just possible—it’s almost inevitable.
Consider the strategy of Steve
Speak up! Send
Bannon, the recently imprisoned advisor to Trump and other white nationalists on the farright: “Democrats don’t matter,” Bannon said in 2018. “The real opposition is the media. And the way to deal with them is to flood the zone with shit.” Loudmouth media hacks like Bannon feed into a voracious maw of racism and xenophobia, exploiting voters’ fears of minorities, immigrants, LGBTQ-plus people, and … the list goes on.
What could President Biden have done to calm these fears, to transform the media landscape from the political center? Could he have used—could he still use—his “bully pulpit” to stop the flood of right-wing sewage pouring from the polluted pipes of people like Bannon, Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson, and Alex Jones?
Is there still time for Biden to emerge as the type of moral leader that he clearly aspires to be?
I’m confident that he can, but only by taking dramatic steps to affirm his appeal to the political center, to the independent voters, and those few remaining “mainstream” Republicans who will decide this election.
When he goes to Chicago next month to accept the Democratic nomination for president, Biden could reclaim the center and virtually guarantee reelection in November by bringing in a former Republican to the top of the ticket.
• First, of course, he’d have to convince VP Kamala Harris to accept a Cabinet post—ideally, the attorney general. I know, that’s heresy to those of us who are enamored of VP Harris. Honestly, I even prefer her at the top of the ticket. But she should be happy to make this “sacrifice.”
• Next, make an offer to Liz Cheney or Adam Kinzinger to step up as the VP nominee for this election in place of Harris—on two conditions: First, he or she must re-register as a Democrat (Kinzinger already left the GOP). And second, should s/he ascend to the presidency at any point, they’d honor Biden’s public commitment to nominate Harris for the next vacancy on the Supreme Court.
I’m aware that many Democrats are discussing renewed concerns about Biden’s
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age. Many are urging Biden to end his campaign, with Harris taking the top of the ticket.
Could she win in November? At best, it’s a tossup; Harris doesn’t occupy any part of the political center.
But, a Biden-Cheney or Biden-Kinzinger ticket in November? Either one could accrue meaningful support among independents and mainstream Republicans, assuring victory.
Moreover, this move would flip the script on Trump’s pot-calling-kettle claim that Biden is “too old.” Should Biden be unable to serve as president, who’s next in the line of succession? A confirmed centrist, an individual with profound moral credentials who could unite the nation, affirming the vitality of our Constitution and our democracy—i.e., a president with many of the same virtues as—wait for it—Joe Biden.
The center must hold. Biden could confirm his legacy and build a bridge for a new generation of leadership.
Mr. President, just this week you wrote to the Democratic members of Congress, and you said it best: We have one job in this campaign, and that’s to defeat Donald Trump. Here’s a road map for how to do it. m
John Ashbaugh still uses road maps from the Automobile Club to get around. Even on his e-bike, or on Amtrak, or when his iPhone can’t get a GPS signal. Send a response for publication by emailing it to letters@santamariasun.com.
LETTERS
Cover the other side of the YMCA issue
Your feature article of July 4 titled, “All day, all night: A YMCA in Santa Ynez wants to stay open 24/7, but its neighbors are against the plan,” by Taylor O’Connor is very one-sided, whether intended or not. Most of the article focuses primarily on the reasons why it is a good idea to convert the facility to 24/7 operations, including an opinion presented by a community person with a medical condition, who coincidentally is also a YMCA board member. You also present quotes by the YMCA executive director and by the chief operating officer for the Channel Islands YMCA. No objective source of community support for this proposal was presented in the article. On the other side, the breadth of opinions opposing the merits of 24/7 operation are only briefly mentioned in your article. The reason the author gives is that responses to inquiries for opposing opinions from YMCA neighbors were not received by the publishing deadline. Here’s a reporting idea: Change the deadline to make sure that you report all the relevant facts and opinions. But you actually already had access to the opposing opinions, and you did not report them! You correctly reported that the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission unanimously voted to push its decision back to August. Therefore, you knew that there was a public meeting wherein opposing opinions were submitted, in writing, to the Planning Commission as a matter of public record—all before you wrote this article. However, you failed to report to readers those opposing opinions. I will not enumerate the extensive list of opposing concerns here—you owed that to your readership in the original piece! Was that lazy reporting, or biased reporting? It certainly was not reporting the whole story. You owe it to your readers to run another story with an equal position in the paper, with an equal headline, that reports the whole story.
Steve Cullen Solvang
Our country’s celebrity obsession hit a new low earlier this month.
If it please the court of readers, I’d like to submit these exhibits regarding the Lake Fire.
Exhibit A: “The battle to save Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch from destructive Lake fire” is the headline for an LA Times July 12 feature-length piece.
Exhibit B: A TMZ article from July 7, “Neverland Ranch in Path of Massive SoCal Wildfire.”
Exhibit B1: A TMZ article from July 8, “Neverland Ranch Protected by Crew Amid SoCal Wildfire.”
Exhibit B2: A TMZ article from July 9, “Neverland Ranch Saved From Massive Lake Wildfire.” When clicked on, the headline reads: HUGE WILDFIRE REACHED MJ ESTATE ... But Fire Crews Saved It!” (Aren’t you glad our headlines don’t yell at you in all caps?)
Exhibit C: A July 12 infrared map on the Watch Duty app showed the Lake Fire’s spread and had but one landmark aside from Los Olivos on it: “The Neverland Gates.”
Why is the estate of the late-pop star so important?! What does that say about us as a culture? That our culture cares more about the weirdo who haunts a Disneyland-wannabe quasi-landmark than the other structures, people, animals, towns, cultural landmarks, and national forest lands that are impacted?
These outlets put Neverland in the headlines but there are actual people evacuating from the fire! (Granted Neverland is owned and maintained by an actual person, “billionaire businessman Ron Burkle, who purchased it for $22 million in 2020,” according to TMZ. Yes, I will quote the outrageous online entertainment publication).
Midland School, just outside of Los Olivos, evacuated its on-site staff and farm animals on July 6 and 7, just after the fire started, before the county issued a mandatory evacuation order. This boarding high school has nearly 3,000 acres and is home to 80 students during the school year, plus a 20-acre farm with 21 horses, 16 cattle, and more than 60 chickens.
“The emergency itself is terrifying, right? Like we’re talking about losing land, potentially losing homes, all of these things that [are] so hard,” said Hannah Nelson, who’d stepped into the head role at the school five days before the fire started.
We’ve got a non-shiny, real-life struggle to save the lives and livelihoods of students, teachers, and animals, and yet it’s a former pop icon who is given the headline inches. Instead of burning our valuable energy obsessing over people and places marked by the façade of celebrity, let’s turn our attention to the neighbors in need!
Speaking of neighbors and need, Santa Maria needs to start paying attention to the election. And I’m not talking about the dumpster fire of a presidential race.
Locally, Santa Maria, you’re not off the hook: You’ve got two City Council seats up for election, and the mayor’s spot.
Political newcomer and Immigrant Legal Defense Center attorney Maria Salguero is challenging incumbent Carlos Escobedo in the District 1 race.
“What makes me particularly excited about running for District 1 at this time is that the stakes are very high at a national level,” Salguero said. “These elections are going to be a crucial tipping point.”
Will Mayor Alice Patino run again? Will someone step up to challenge the longtime incumbent? Stay tuned. Things are just starting to heat up. m
The Canary’s mind is on fire. Tell it to stop, drop, and roll at canary@santamariasun.com.
Hot Stuff
PLACE YOUR BETS
The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center hosts its 2024 Gala at the Edwards Barn in Nipomo on Saturday, July 27, at 6 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to wear 1920s attire at this event, which includes live jazz and swing music, poker tables, a no-host bar, dinner catered by Cool Hand Luke’s of Santa Maria, and more. Visit dunescenter.org to find out more about the 2024 Gala.
—Caleb Wiseblood
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.
CABARET PCPA’s iteration of the iconic musical. July 18 -27 Marian Theatre, 800 S. College Dr., Santa Maria, pcpa.org.
CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: PAPER
UMBRELLAS Make adorable mini paper umbrellas to drive away those summer showers. This workshop is free; all materials and supplies will be provided. Registration is required. For patrons 18 or older. July 22 , 3-4:30 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., 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.
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.
MEET-THE-ARTIST RECEPTION Meet award-winning artist and local Jeremy Brooks, who is showcasing more than 30 pen-and-ink hand-drawn illustrations on display in July and August. Many originals from his published books are
being featured. He began drawing at the age of four which became instrumental for communicating as he lives on the autism spectrum. July 20 3:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Shepard Hall Art Gallery (Santa Maria Public Library), 421 South McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-925-0994.
POETRY FOR SELF CARE Looking for a new form of self-expression? Poetry facilitation is the use of poetry to promote well-being. Workshop participants will be introduced to a poem and explore their reaction through writing or illustration with guest facilitator Dot Winslow. Registration is required and the workshop is free. July 21 , 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
THE LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS The hit sci-fi horror comedy, with songs by lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken. Presented by PCPA. Through July 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. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG Through July 28 Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.
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 19, 7-9:30 p.m. and July 20, 7-9:30 p.m. $10-$20. 805489-9444. 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.
GUNSMOKIN’ Through Sept. 7 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ACT SUMMER THEATRE CAMPS Visit site for more details on this summer camp series. Through Aug. 5 slorep.org/education/ act-theatre-camps/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-786-2440.
ADVENTURE ART CLASS WITH CHUCK CROTSER This 4-week class is aimed at children ages 8-14 to learn critical elements of drawing and painting while having a blast. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through July. $25 per class or $80 for all classes. 805-471-5967. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St.,
San Luis Obispo.
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.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC PRESENTS
CHEVALIER WITH THE SLO FILM
FESTIVAL Inspired by the true story of composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. The illegitimate son of an African slave and a French plantation owner, Bologne (Kelvin Harrison Jr. in a tour de force performance) rises to improbable heights in French society. July 22 , 7:30-9:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC PRESENTS THE FILM: EARL Earl Kim is an American composer who was born into abject poverty. As a child, music transformed his life. He learned the keyboard from a church organist and later studied with a Los Angeles composer and teacher free of charge for seven years. July 26 2-4 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.
THE MAMA TEMPLE PRESENTS:
BEAUTY OF THE BIRTHING BODY ART WORKSHOP WITH CATALINA BERTOLA
A mixed media art workshop celebrating the beauty, strength, and divine mystery of the birthing body. Catalina Bertola, a local artist and mom, provides instruction on watercolor and ink “zentangle” techniques. Beginners and experienced artists are welcome. July 20 1-3 p.m. $10. thebunkerslo.com/events. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
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. Through July 31 themamatemple.org/work/ julyevents. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
PAINTING WITH PINOT: MONOCHROMATIC LANDSCAPE Receive instruction for creating a beautiful monochromatic landscape using Inktense Pencil activated with red wine. This is a “Paint and Sip” class and includes your choice of local white or red wine. Beginners are welcome; no experience necessary. July 19, 3-5:30 p.m. $45 plus additional supplies available at Art Central. 805-478-2158. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. SLOCA SUMMER CAMP: MUSICAL THEATER Two weeks of singing, dancing, acting, and more fun for grades 1-8. This 2-week camp introduces students to a variety of elements and principles used in the process of theater production and appreciation of theater arts. Showcase on the final day of camp. Mondays-Fridays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through Aug. 2 $750. 805-5488700. sloclassical.org/summercamp/. SLO Classical Academy, 165 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.
SPRING REFLECTIONS WITH PASTELS WITH JIM TYLER In this workshop, we’ll paint a seasonal pond with reflections of cows, trees, and distant mountains. We’ll address focal points, visual paths, and translating photos to paintings. This is an instructor-led class with demonstrations each step of the way. All experience levels welcome. July 20 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $65 plus additional materials. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., 805-7474200, San Luis Obispo.
A TOWN ART HOP CALL TO ARTIST The first A Town Art Hop is happening Sept. 6. Submission deadline is July 25. Email: atownarthop@gmail.com (up to five images). July 25 Free. instagram.com/ atownarthop/. 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. Through Oct. 20, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ surf-show/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY THE BIG LEBOWSKI SCREENING A benefit to support 97.3/107.9 FM The Rock. July 22 , 5:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Bay Theatre, 464 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay, 805-772-2444. ESCAPING THE LABYRINTH A man falls for a Greek goddess who disappears. He spends his life searching to find her again. July 19 -21 By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay, bytheseaproductions.org. THE GOONIES SCREENING A benefit for Morro Bay in Bloom. July 20 noon $15. my805tix.com. Bay Theatre, 464 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay, 805-772-2444. MEDIA ARTS (VIDEO PRODUCTION) WORKSHOP Don’t know what to do with all the videos you have recorded and saved? This new media arts workshop is just what you need. Learn how to organize and edit those videos and turn them into something special. See website for full details. July 23 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., July 24 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and July 25, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $75. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.
MEDIA ARTS/VIDEO PRODUCTION WORKSHOP FOR TEENS (GOING INTO GRADES 6-12) In this 3-day media arts workshop, students that are going into grades 6-12 will learn about the basics of video production, plus they will walk away having made at least one completed video. See website for complete details. July 23 1-4 p.m., July 24 1-4 p.m. and July 25 1-4 p.m. $120. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., 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.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. 805-937-9750. oasisorcutt. org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.
GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing 805-343-2455. dunescenter.org.
Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.
RAINBOW READS BOOK CLUB Join every month to read and discuss literature that focuses on LGBTQIA+ authors, characters, and themes. The selection for July is Rainbow Milk by Paul Mendez. See sm.blackgold.org for available titles. Registration is required. July 19 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
NUTRITION AND MENTAL HEALTH Dr. Ayoub will be drawing on his 25 years’ experience in the biological, psychological and medical disciplines to explain how nutritional deficits have been linked to a number of mental health issues such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, autism, and more. July 21 5-7 p.m. Free. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
ADVENTURES WITH NATURE: BOARDWALK TO BUTTERFLIES TO BEACH
Join State Park Docent Becky for an easy stroll along the boardwalk trail to Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove and then return by way of the beach. Meet in the plaza area at the tables across Fin’s. July 24, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. 805-474-2664. West Grand Avenue Plaza and Parking Lot, 25 W Grand Avenue, Grover Beach.
ADVENTURES WITH NATURE:
INATURALIST Join State Park Staff for an interactive workshop to learn how to use iNaturalist, a free app that helps you identify plant and animal species in our area. Bring your own device (smartphone or tablet) with the app downloaded. RSVP required by calling. July 24 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. 805-474-2664. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.
BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. ongoing Starts at $70. 805-835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.
BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
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.
DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND
CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA
The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its meeting on the third Saturday of each month. For more information, follow on Facebook at Bishop’s Peak EGA or visit the EGA website. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 16 Free. egausa.com. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach, 805-773-4832.
FULL MOON YOGA, MEDITATION, AND SOUND BATH Visit site for more info and tickets. July 21 7:30-9 p.m. my805tix.com. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach.
LITTLE RANGER PROGRAM: SHELLABRATING PISMO CLAMS Calling all Little Rangers. This July program will teach us all about one of our favorite natural resources: the Pismo Clam. Learn how to rebury clams, what their predators are, and what’s inside the clam. Parents/ guardians required. July 21 10-11 a.m. Free. 805-474-2664. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.
MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. 510-3623739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS
A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays
pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. 805-440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.
SENIOR TARGETED SCAMS … HOW TO AVOID THEM Visit site for more info and how to attend. July 23 , 10-11:30 a.m. my805tix.com. Oxford Suites, 651 Five Cities Drive, Pismo Beach.
SUMMER BARKTACULAR BARK IN THE
PARK Hosted by the City of Arroyo Grande. Bring your leashed best friend for a day of fun in the sun. Dog item vendors, food trucks, dog contests, adoptions, and more. July 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $0-$15. 805-4735472. arroyogrande.org/catalog. Elm St. Park, 380 S Elm St., Arroyo Grande.
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
38TH ANNUAL CENTRAL COAST
RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL Experience 16thcentury magic and enjoy thrilling battles,
parades, enchanting music, and comedy and dancing across four stages. Explore artisanal treasures and indulge in delicious food and drink. July 20 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $25$30. 805-550-9177. ccrenfaire.com.
Laguna Lake Park, 504 Madonna Rd., 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. 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. 559-905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.
CREATE AND CONNECT CENTRAL
COAST MEETUP Join for this inaugural meetup where creativity and community come together. Work on your current projects or start something new; embroidery, knitting, crochet, drawing, painting, hand sewing, jewelry making, any portable craft is welcome. July 21 , 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. meetup.com/ create-and-connect-central-coast/ events/302139396/. Ancient Owl Beer Garden and Bottle Shoppe, 3197 Duncan Road, A, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-2354.
GALAXY GYMNASTICS CAMP Features gymnastics, themed crafts and games, and educational trivia. Defy gravity on the trampolines, bars, beams, foam pits, and more. Ages 4-13; no experience necessary. July 22-26, 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. GUIDED ENERGETIC MEDITATION Are you energetically sensitive? This reoccurring weekly class will be a guided Introduction to Energetic Meditation Techniques that will assist you to: clear your energy field, improve energy flow and energy boundaries, quiet and focus your mind, and be clearer about “Who You Really Are.” Mondays, 6:30-8 p.m. through Nov. 30 $22. 503-929-6416. elohiacupuncture.com/classes/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A safe place to share life experiences with those who have depression or have had and recovered from the devastating effects of depression. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free. 805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. THE MAMA TEMPLE AND DIVERSITY COALITION SLO COUNTY PRESENTS: MOTHERHOOD AND DISABILITIES
An event dedicated to exploring the unique challenges and profound beauty experienced by mothers navigating the intersection of disability and parenting. This special gathering will feature a diverse group of speakers, creating space for sharing the unspoken aspects of their journeys. July 20, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. thebunkerslo.com/events. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo. THE MAMA TEMPLE PRESENTS: MAMA GRIEF CIRCLE WITH DONNA HELETE All CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 15
are welcome. Come spend the morning reflecting on and processing mama grief. We’ll create grief timelines and have an opportunity to witness each other’s stories in a confidential, brave space supported by somatic practices and ritual.
July 21 , 9:30 a.m.-noon $30. thebunkerslo. com/events. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
THE MAMA TEMPLE PRESENTS:
MOTHERING OUR GRIEF WITH DONNA HELETE Grief exists within motherhood. Yet in our society, we make more room to celebrate than to mourn, though both are inherent in change. Come join a conversation, making room for grief, meeting it with the compassion of a loving mother. July 19 6:30-8 p.m. Free. thebunkerslo.com/events. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
THE MAMA TEMPLE PRESENTS:
SLOW FLOW AND SOMATICS WITH CAROLINE Communing with the subtle realms of being and engaging in gentle, intuitive movement to support fertility and perinatal wellbeing. We’ll explore some yin shapes with props for support, a nourishing flow, and envisioning exercises to encourage relationship with our bodies. Bring yoga mat and journal.
July 20, 10-11:30 a.m. $25. 620-899-4060. themamatemple.org/work/julyevents.
The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE
Stretch into yourself under the beautiful oaks and fresh air of this idyllic country setting. Suitable for all levels, these classes emphasize the gentler side of yoga and adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for five-class card with no expiration. 805-440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Tiber Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, San Luis Obispo.
METAPHYSICAL/SPIRITUALITY
BOOK CLUB A weekly book discussion, on a wide variety of titles from the general subject of metaphysics, spirituality, and comparative religion. By invitation. For more information, contact David Higgins, email: davidhiggins67@ gmail.com. Location revealed to those invited. Wednesdays Free. rationalmetaphysics.com. Private location, TBA, Location not to be published.
MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.
NAMI FAMILY-TO-FAMILY
CLASS This is a free, eightsession education program for family, friends and significant
MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD
The Shepard Hall Art Gallery, located inside the Santa Maria Public Library, will host an artist reception to celebrate illustrator Jeremy Brooks’ new solo exhibition on Saturday, July 20, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Admission to attend is free. More than 30 of Brooks’ pen and ink illustrations will remain on display at the gallery through the end of August. Visit cityofsantamaria.org for more info on the gallery.
ATTENTION all former SMJUHSD Special Education Students born 2000!
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
others of children and adults with mental health conditions. Learn about anxiety, depressive disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. Topics covered include communication, problem solving, treatment, and recovery. Registration by email or calling required. Mondays, 6-8:30 p.m. through Aug. 5 Free. 805-481-4847. namislo.org. Unitarian Universalist, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo.
PLUG-IN TO LOCAL CLIMATE
ACTION Get inspired by local action, connect with others, and discover more ways to get involved with the SLO Climate Coalition. Attend virtually or in-person. Sustainable snacks and childcare will be provided. Third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. Ludwick Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, San Luis Obispo.
Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SLO BLUES BASEBALL 33 summer home games held. Go to
The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Special Education - Child Find
bluesbaseball.com for full schedule. Tickets available from My805Tix. Through July 27 $10 adults; 12 and under free. 805-5129996. my805tix.com. SLO Blues Summer Collegiate Baseball, Sinsheimer Stadium at 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispso. SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A good core group of friends who gather to discuss topics we love/ care about from movies, outings, music, or being new to the area. We come from all walks of life and most importantly support each other. Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. sloqueer.groups.io/g/ lezbfriends. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.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.
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)
SMCT Presents: Godspell
to The Rolling Stones: Some Girls
FRI-SUN, AUGUST 9-25 Santa Maria Civic Theatre Paso Robles Rotary Club Winemakers’ Cookoff SATURDAY, AUGUST 10 Paso Robles Event Center
The Only Ocean, Niantic, Zampkamp, and Shadow Construct 47
SATURDAY, AUGUST 10
Humdinger Brewing, SLO
AUGUST 10 Blast 825 Brewery, Orcutt
Resonance Presents: Life and Breath SAT & SUN, AUGUST 10 & 11
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa & Trinity Lutheran Church, Paso Robles
Hot Stuff
SQUAWK THE PLANK
The 38th annual Central Coast Renaissance Festival will be held at Laguna Lake Park in San Luis Obispo with events on Saturday, July 20, and Sunday, July 21. Attendees of the festival can expect to watch epic battles between live performers in 16th century attire and enjoy various festivities. The Sunday event is specifically themed “Pirate Day.” Visit my805tix.com for tickets to the festival and more info.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 15
SUMMER SCIENCE AND ART IN THE GARDEN: STUDENTS AGES 10 TO 14
During the week of July 22 through 26, students will experience different daily explorations into the natural world. This class will be taught by a team of knowledgeable educators and SLO Botanical Garden docents. Please email jen@slobg.org for more information or call. July 22 10 a.m.-noon, July 23 , 10 a.m.-noon, July 24 10 a.m.-noon, July 25, 10 a.m.-noon and July 26 10 a.m.-noon $100. 805-541-1400. slobg.org/event/ summer-science-for-students-10-to-14/. 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.
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.
The SLO
Ventura Invitational
SAT & SUN, AUGUST 10 & 11 Morro Bay Golf Course
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. Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.
WILD WEST GYMNASTICS CAMP Rustle up some flips and enjoy trampolines, bars, beams, foam pits, and more. Ages 4-13; no gymnastics experience necessary. Through July 19, 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.
WOMEN VISIONARIES SYMPOSIUM
Join accomplished women for a powerful evening of spiritual and business alignment with hosts Shawna Mox and Sabrina Pratt. July 21 4-7 p.m. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
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. ongoing presquilewine.com/club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, 805-937-8110.
SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com.
Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.
TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER
Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing. wineanddesign.com/orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO
TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave, Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY DUMPLING MAKING CLASS WITH
SICHUAN KITCHEN SLO Join Chef Garrett of Sichuan Kitchen SLO for his famous dumpling making class. He will be sharing his passion for Sichuan cuisine as you learn the art of making dumplings. Mix, season, and wrap your way to a delicious feast. Vegan option included. For ages 21 and over. July 25, 6-8 p.m. $50. 805-4817339. bgcslo.org/events. Boys and Girls Clubs of South San Luis Obispo County Clubhouse, 1830 19th St., Oceano. DUNES CENTER’S 2024 GALA Attendees are encouraged to wear 1920s attire at this event, which includes live jazz and swing music, poker tables, a no-host bar, dinner catered by Cool Hand Luke’s of Santa Maria, and more. July 27 6 p.m. dunescenter.org. Edwards Barn, 1095 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo, 805-929-1673. SAN LUIS OBISPO DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.
EDIBLE MAGAZINE SUMMER HOUSE A celebration of all things culinary, as Edible Magazine bring the pages of the magazine to life. This curated, multi-day food festival is an opportunity to try one-time-only food collaborations, chefs tables, cooking classes, farm shares, and more. Benefiting Family Care Network. July 28 ediblesanluisobispo.com/summerhouse/. La Lomita Ranch, 1985 La Lomita Way, San Luis Obispo, 805-927-1028.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC: VIP AFTER PARTY WITH THE ARTISTS Indulge in culinary creations and Central Coast wines while you mingle with the performers at an exclusive after-party at Luna Red. Limited to 50 guests. July 24 , 9:30-11 p.m. Tickets start at $60. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Luna Red, 1023 Chorro St., San Luis Obispo. HEAD GAMES TRIVIA NIGHT Live multi-media trivia every Wednesday. Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to six
FOOD & DRINK continued page 18
—C.W.
SATURDAY, JULY 20
Bunker SLO
Midiri Brothers & Barrelhouse Wailers
SATURDAY, JULY 20 Pismo Beach Veterans’ Hall Beauty of the Birthing Body with Catalina Bertola SATURDAY, JULY 20
Bunker SLO
Birth Labyrinth Workshop with Kyla SUNDAY, JULY 21 The Bunker SLO Full Moon Yoga, Meditation, and Sound Bath
SLOFunny Comedy Show, Hosted by Jonathon Kite FRIDAY, JULY 26 JUSTIN Downtown Tasting Room, Paso Robles
Let’s Dance
SATURDAY, JULY 20 Congregation House, SLO
SUNDAY,
Trivia Wednesday Night with Brain Stew Trivia
Lavender Essential Oil Distillation
Lavender Farm, San Miguel
Mama Grief Circle with Donna Helete
JULY 21 The Bunker SLO
Hot Stuff
players. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. headgamestrivia.com. Antigua Brewing, 1009 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-242-1167.
LOBSTERFEST AT CHAMISAL VINEYARDS Abandon the silverware and enjoy steaming lobster, prawns, corn on the cob, artichokes, potatoes, and garlic as they are ceremoniously poured from huge cooking pots down the middle of butcher paper-covered tables. Sip on perfectly paired Chamisal wines as you dig in. July 19 6-8:30 p.m. and July 20, 6-8:30 p.m. chamisalvineyards.com. Chamisal Vineyards, 7525 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-9463.
MULTICULTURAL POTLUCKS Held monthly on the farm to connect us to our roots, our family and cultural heritage around eating food, as well as horticultural traditions of how people from around the world grow their food. July 21 1 p.m. ourglobalfamilyfarm.com. City Farm SLO, 1221 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, 805-769-8344.
QUEER TRIVIA Sip some cider, test your LGBTQ trivia knowledge, and learn new fun facts. Topic themes and hosts rotate each week. Prizes for winners. BYO food. Third Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. 805-292-1500. Two Broads Ciderworks, 3427 Roberto Ct., suite 130, San Luis Obispo, twobroadscider.com.
SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
181818 SUNSET WINE/RAIL EXCURSION: SANTA BARBARA These fully-hosted, docent-led excursions will depart from the SLO Railroad Museum at 11 a.m. taking a motor coach to the Santa Barbara Wine Collective. July 20 my805tix.com. San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, 1940 Santa Barbara Ave., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-1894.
TRIVIA NIGHT Reservations are no longer required to play. Reservations are now for teams who want to guarantee a table to play. Tables available first come, first serve. Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. my805tix.com. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo, 805 242-8372.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
OYSTER BAY CRUISE Come cruise
VASE THAT FEELING
Studios on the Park in Paso Robles hosts a mixed media workshop with resident artist Holly Beals on Saturday, July 20, from 1 to 3 p.m. Beals will guide participants through a variety of painting techniques to create their own artwork depicting flowers in a vase. Admission is $20. Call (805) 238-9800 or visit studiosonthepark.org for more info on the workshop.
—C.W.
MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY
Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing 805-925-0464. coelhomusic.com/ Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.
OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. 805478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.
SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
for the band Mother Hips. With the band, Bluhm helped to define a new breed of California soul with nine studio albums. The Coffis Brothers pride themselves on their honest, heartfelt roots-rock sound, with an emphasis on the roots. July 25 6:30-9 p.m. Tickets start at $62. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo.
Morro Bay. Ticket includes a 90-minute boat cruise, a half dozen oysters with mignonette pairings, and one drink. July 21 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $60. 805-7484419. Captain Stew’s Bay Cruise, 1215 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.
MUSIC
LIVE MUSIC FROM BRIAN BLACK Brian Black performs in multi-genres that include acoustic slide blues, Americana/ pop classics, and Latin/tropical finger style instrumental originals. July 21 7-10 p.m. Free. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.
LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, 805-686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, 805-937-8110.
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.
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.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC: QUARTETO NUEVEO AT SEE CANYON FRUIT RANCH This is an outdoor event. Quarteto Nuevo merges western classical, eastern European folk, Latin, and jazz with an organic feel that “packs a wallop!” The ensemble’s razorsharp precision is enhanced by jazzy interludes, lightly rumbling percussion motifs, and mesmerizing rhythms. July 21 , 2-4 p.m. Tickets start at $62. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. See Canyon Fruit Ranch, 2345 See Canyon Rd., Avila Beach. GROVER BEACH SUMMER CONCERTS 2024 Featuring some of best local and regional bands all summer long. Food, craft vendors, and activities for the kids. Free and all ages welcome. Sundays, 3-6 p.m. through Aug. 18 Free. 805-473-4580. groverbeach.org. Ramona Garden Park Center, 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach. 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 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.
MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: ALEXANDER
HERSH Cellist Alexander Hersh is joined by pianist Susan Grace for a recital of works for cello and piano. July 25, noon Free; suggested $10 donation. 805-7813009. festivalmozaic.org. Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.
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.
WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS
Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, 805-686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
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.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC PRESENTS: TIM BLUHM WITH THE COFFIS BROTHERS Singer-songwriter Tim Bluhm, front man
MIDIRI BROTHERS AND BARRELHOUSE WAILERS The Basin Street Regulars presents Midiri Brothers and Barrelhouse Wailers. July 20 -5 p.m. $20 for members, $30 for non-members. Pismo Beach Veterans Memorial Hall, 780 Bello St., Pismo Beach.
NO HOME, GHOST CHANT, IDLE MIND Visit site for more info and tickets. July 24 6 p.m. my805tix.com. Fuego in Grover Beach, 1187 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, 805-710-6477.
QUARTETO NUEVO Quarteto Nuevo merges western classical, eastern European folk, Latin, and jazz with an organic feel. July 21 2 p.m. $62. 805-7813009. festivalmozaic.org. See Canyon Fruit Ranch, 2345 See Canyon Rd., Avila Beach. SUNSET HAPPY HOUR WITH THE CLIFFNOTES AT MULLIGAN’S IN AVILA Toast the summer sun setting over the Pacific with The Cliffnotes and their New Orleans-flavored rock with a dash of reggae, classic rock, and Americana. FREE and kid friendly! July 19 5-7 p.m. Free. 805-595-4000. avilabeachresort.com/ mulligans. Mulligans Bar and Grill, 6460 Ana Bay Road, Avila Beach.
MUSIC continued page 19
TIM BLUHM AND THE COFFIS BROTHERS
Singer-songwriter Tim Bluhm is the frontman for the now-iconic band Mother Hips. With the band, Bluhm helped to define a new breed of California soul with nine studio albums over two-and-a-half decades. July 25 6:30 p.m. $62. 805-7813009. festivalmozaic.org. DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
16TH ANNUAL NEW TIMES AWARDS:
ENTRY PERIOD The contest entries are open through Aug. 5. Visit site for entry rules and more info on the New Times Media Group’s annual competition for local musicians. July 18 -Aug. 5 newtimesslo.com/sanluisobispo/ NTMARules/Page. New Times, 1010 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8208.
CHAMBER CONCERT 1: OPENING NIGHT
CELEBRATION The 2024 SLO Summer
Music Festival opens with two pieces by celebrated masters juxtaposed with two world premieres. Pre-concert lecture at 6:30 p.m. with Dr. Alyson McLamore. July 19, 7:30 p.m. $32. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
CHAMBER CONCERT 3: MOZART IN
THE MISSION The annual concert in Mission San Luis Obispo opens with some beautifully resonant pieces by Italian composer Gabrieli for a brass ensemble comprised of Festival Mozaic artists and local musicians. Free Pre-Concert Lecture at 6:30 p.m. with Dr. Alyson McLamore. July 24 7:30 p.m. $32. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
FAMILY CONCERT: PETER AND THE WOLF
The Movement Arts Collective once again joins forces with Festival Mozaic to lead this family-friendly performance of Prokofiev’s beloved Peter and the Wolf This concert is open for all ages and will last under one hour without an intermission. July 22 11
a.m. $5. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org.
Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC PRESENTS PETER AND THE WOLF (FAMILY CONCERT) The Movement Arts Collective once again joins forces with Festival Mozaic to lead this family-friendly performance of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf in which the narrator tells the story while the orchestra represents the characters with different instruments. This concert is open for all ages. July 22 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets start at $5. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC PRESENTS: NOTABLE INSIGHT (TCHAIKOVSKY) Join Scott Yoo and the Festival Artists as they take you on a “museum docent’s tour” of Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence for string sextet. They will discuss the piece’s history, the composer’s influences, and musical style, and perform some selections. July 25 2-4 p.m. Tickets start at $27. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Madonna Inn Ballroom, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC: NOTABLE INSIGHT (SIBELIUS) Join Scott Yoo and the Festival Artists as they take you on a “museum docent’s tour” of Sibelius’ Piano Quintet in G minor. They will discuss the piece’s history, the composer’s influences and musical style, and perform some selections. July 18, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets start at $27. 805-7813009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC: CHAMBER CONCERT 1 (OPENING NIGHT CELEBRATION)
Pre-concert lecture at 6:30 p.m. with Dr. Alyson McLamore. Summer Music Festival opens with two pieces by masters juxtaposed with two world premieres. A lovely string quartet by Haydn opens the program, followed by Scott Yoo’s “opus 1” composition for piano quartet. July 19 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets start at $32. 805-781-
3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC: CHAMBER CONCERT 3
(GABRIELI, GLINKA, RAVEL, MOZART) Free pre-concert lecture with Dr. Alyson McLamore. This annual concert opens with pieces by Italian composer Gabrieli for a brass ensemble comprised of Festival Mozaic artists and local musicians. Closing the concert is Mozart’s Divertimento from 1772. July 24, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets start at $32. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
FLAVOR PACKET Flavor Packet stirs up a lyrical and imaginative sound with its contemporary and world-beatinfluenced jazz music. July 19 6-9 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com. The Hub, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
JAZZ WEDNESDAYS Spinning jazz records all night. Bebop, jazz funk, acid jazz, hard bop, nu jazz, jazz house, crossover, Latin jazz, and more. Featuring guest selectors. Music at a polite volume in an acoustically treated space. Vintage sound system, big warm speakers. Plenty of free parking. Wednesdays, 3-8 p.m. through Oct. 30 Free. 805-439-1544. jansplaceslo.com. Jan’s Place, 1817 Osos St., San Luis Obispo.
LET’S DANCE Spend the afternoon on the patio dancing to the best dance music from the ‘50s and ‘60s. July 20 4 p.m. my805tix.com. CongregationHouse, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo.
LIVE MUSIC AT KROBAR Enjoy live music at Krobar, which showcases local, talented artists of all music genres. Kick-off your weekend right, grab your favorite seasonal craft cocktail, and vibe to the sounds of the night. Follow on Instagram to find out who is playing. Every other Friday, 6-9 p.m. and Saturdays, 6-9 p.m. through Aug. 31 Free. krobardistillery.com/events. Krobar Craft Distillery, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
MUSIC continued page 20
Hot Stuff
MICKY DOLENZ LIVE AT THE FREMONT THEATER Micky Dolenz is performing live at the Fremont Theater. All ages. July 19, 8 p.m. $49.50 to $99.50. fremontslo.com. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600.
MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: ROBERT DEMAINE Robert deMaine, principal cellist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, is joined by Artist-in-Residence John Novacek for a mini-recital of works for cello and piano. July 23 noon Free; suggested $10 donation. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.
MIDSUMMER BARN DANCE Dust off your dancing boots and join a fundraiser full of dancing (or spectating) in the big barn. A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit The Land Conservancy of SLO County. July 20 6-11 p.m. $20. lcslo.org/events/ midsummer-barn-dance/. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096.
MIDSUMMER BARN DANCE AT THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN CENTER The evening will begin with a square dance called by Robin Fischer and live music from red-hot oldtime stringband, the SLO County Stumblers. Following the square dance, dance your heart out to Santa Cruz’s premier ‘90s country band, Lane and the Longbeds. July 20 6-11 p.m. $20 advance; $25 door; $10 kids under 12. 805-235-2874. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, octagonbarn.org.
THE MOLLY RINGWALD PROJECT AND EMILY SMITH: CONCERTS IN THE PLAZA Free live music. Family-friendly. Food/drink available. July 19 5-8 p.m. Free. DowntownSLO.com/ Concerts. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo. MUSIC ON THE FARM WITH MISS LEO (SESSION 2) Join at City Farm SLO for 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. Class series for ages 3-7. Wednesdays. through Aug. 7 $100. missleomusic.com/education. City Farm SLO, 1221 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, 805-769-8344.
NOTABLE INSIGHT: SIBELIUS PIANO QUINTET Join Scott Yoo and the Festival Artists as they take you on a “museum docent’s tour” of Sibelius’ Piano Quintet in G minor. They will discuss the piece’s history, the composer’s influences and musical style, and perform some selections. July 18 5:30 p.m. $27. 805781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
NOTABLE INSIGHT: TCHAIKOVSKY SOUVENIR DE FLORENCE Scott Yoo and the Festival Artists take you on a “museum docent’s tour” of Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence for string sextet, discussing the piece’s history, the composer’s influences and musical style, and perform some selections. July 25 2 p.m. $27. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
REEL TO REAL AT KROBAR Reel Too Real delivers energetic ‘80/’90s rock from folks who’ve brought the party to many stages across the Central Coast and beyond. July 20, 6-9 p.m. Free. Krobar Craft Distillery, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, krobardistillery.com/.
RUMOR, FEATURING DANI COLE Enjoy a variety of soft rock and blues. Featuring Dani Cole on vocals. July 21 , 1-4 p.m. rumorslocal.com. Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards, 1947 See Canyon Rd., San Luis Obispo, (805) 595-9700.
SADIE JASPER: ALBUM RELEASE PARTY July 19, 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, 805-781-9974.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE A rockin’ blues dance party at Niffy’s Merrimaker every first, third, and now fifth Wednesdays. The Blues Asylum house band welcomes local, visiting, and newcomers to the blues groove. Spirits, beer, and wine, with outside food welcome. Every other Wednesday, 7-10 p.m. Free. 805-235-5223. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos.
BOATZART: FESTIVAL BRASS At the conclusion of the Los Osos Farmers Market, the Festival Mozaic Brass Quintet will lead a free performance on the Baywood Park Pier. Nicknamed “Boatzart,” this event returns to the tradition of the Mozart Festival, serenading audience members on land from boats. July 22 , 4 p.m. Free; suggested $10 donation. 805-781 - 3009. festivalmozaic.org. Baywood Park Pier, 601-639 El Moro Ave., Los Osos.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC: FESTIVAL BRASS QUINTET After the Los Osos Farmers Market, the Festival Mozaic Brass Quintet will lead a free performance on the Baywood Park Pier. Nicknamed “Boatzart,” this traditional event harkens back to when brass players would serenade audiences on land and boats from the end of the pier. July 22 , 7:30-9:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Baywood Park Pier, 601639 El Moro Ave., Los Osos.
MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: ALEX WASSERMAN Pianist Alex Wasserman returns to Festival Mozaic for a recital of works for solo piano. All Midday Mini-Concerts last no longer than one hour without an intermission. July 20 noon Free, suggested $10 donation. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Trinity United Methodist Church, 490 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos.
ARTS BRIEFS
New textile art exhibit at Cal-NAM celebrates local animal species and oak woodland habitats
The California Nature Art Museum (Cal-NAM) opened its latest solo exhibition in mid-July, a showcase of fabric collages and quilts by local artist Julia Laraway. The exhibit, titled California, Quilted: Wild in the Oak Woodland, is scheduled to run through January 2025.
Laraway’s artworks in the show were inspired by California’s oak woodland habitats and the thousands of animal species they support.
“Sitting at my sewing machine, I hope to capture the wonder that these creatures inspire within me. They are our fellow travelers in life, and they share their home with all of us, often to their detriment,” Laraway said in press materials.
“[Cal-NAM’s] commitment to putting our environment in front of us so we can see the natural world through the eyes of artists is a gift, and I am incredibly grateful to be sharing my quilt pieces at this museum.”
Laraway hopes her depictions of birds, mammals, reptiles, fish, amphibians, and insects will “spark a curiosity about their lives and how our worlds intertwine,” and inspire interest in protecting oak woodland habitats from losing space to agriculture and urban development.
Cal-NAM’s Executive Director Stacey Otte-Demangate said that “as soon as we saw the quality of her quilted wall hangings and her subject matter, we knew immediately they would be a great fit for a museum exhibition here,” according to press materials.
When Laraway first began quilt-making many years ago, she was inspired by her mother, an accomplished seamstress and quilter.
“Her eye for color and beautiful fabrics was honed during the years she made her own clothes,” and “clothes for my siblings and I,” Laraway said in press materials.
“As I began experimenting with fabric collage, she encouraged me to use quilting and applique techniques to bring texture and movement to the pieces I was making,” added Laraway, who “has always loved the sound of the sewing machine, the smell of a hot iron on fabric, and the bright threads that give each piece its texture and form.”
To find out more about California, Quilted: Wild in the Oak Woodland and other programs hosted by Cal-NAM, call (805) 688-1082 or visit calnatureartmuseum.org. Cal-NAM is open Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is located at 1511-B Mission Drive, Solvang. m
Showtime! Send gallery, stage, and cultural festivities to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
Field feels
Gallery Los Olivos’ July exhibit showcases ag worker portraits in oil
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Rows of crops and figures tending them line the walls of Gallery Los Olivos as part of the venue’s latest solo exhibition.
Over the past five years, featured painter Bobby Williams has created dozens of oil paintings depicting agricultural workers—and he has no plans to stop anytime soon.
“I feel as if I have just scratched the surface of this series,” the Santa Ynez-based artist said in an email interview. “I’ve learned that revisiting the subject matter over a long period of time allows me to consider it from every possible angle, and it forces
me to push myself creatively to come up with new ways of approaching things.”
Williams titled the ongoing series Pillars to commend its subjects as literal pillars that hold up the food system. Aside from sharing the same occupation, each figure Williams illustrates is alike in that their faces are intentionally hidden, with their heads typically covered by sun hats or hoods.
According to the artist, the goal behind this choice was to create an uncomfortable tension and to represent generations of agricultural workers who do their jobs without the recognition they deserve.
While gradually completing new additions to the Pillars collection, Williams has sold several pieces over the years to buyers who the series’ subject matter resonates with.
Unsung upholders
moving to a new country where you have no contacts and don’t speak the language. They talk about how this bravery and sacrifice inspired them to achieve great things in their own lives ... from being the first in their family to graduate from college to overcoming difficult obstacles of their own, like addiction.”
Williams recently completed the Pillars series’ 100th piece, a milestone currently on display among 15 selected original oil paintings in Gallery Los Olivos’ Pillars 2024 exhibition. Described as a retrospective of agricultural life on the Central Coast, the show opened on July 1 and will remain up through July 31.
While the series features vistas of different types of ag land, the one backdrop of this kind Williams prefers to avoid is a vineyard setting, despite the painter’s longtime career in estate wine sales.
“A couple of previous paintings from the Pillars series do include vineyards in the composition. However, I feel that it’s a subject matter that already receives a lot of attention from local artists because we are in wine country, so I try to focus on something different,” Williams said. “‘Wine art’ can run the risk of being cliché, or overly idealized, and I suppose I’m trying to produce work that is a bit deeper in meaning. It’s not just about creating a pleasing scene for me.”
Born in Northern California and raised in Missouri, Williams worked as a sommelier in New York City before moving to the Central Coast to continue working as both a wine professional and painter.
“More times than I can count, patrons have reached out to share stories of family members who were migrant workers,” Williams said. “They speak of grandmothers, aunts, fathers, brothers … who sacrificed so much to support their families.
“Often, they purchase these pieces in memoriam or in acknowledgment of their loved ones’ hard work,” the artist added. “They describe the bravery of
“My plan from a very young age was to be a professional artist, and I did complete a few semesters of art school. ... I’ve been producing art regularly since high school,” Williams said. “I always considered myself an artist first, and the necessity to have a day job came later. I’m fortunate to be at a place in my art career now where I regularly sell work, but it’s still not enough to live comfortably in Santa Barbara County.” What’s Williams’ secret to balancing the two careers? “Never take a day off.”
“Seriously. I put my ‘wine guy’ hat on during the week and make sure I show up ready to paint every weekend. It’s like I have two separate identities,” Williams said. “It sounds grueling, but painting is very relaxing for me. It gives me something to look forward to when I’m having a frustrating week at work.” m
Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood wants to know your secret identity. Send comments to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.
Pillars 2024, a solo exhibition of oil paintings by Santa Ynezbased artist Bobby Williams, opened at Gallery Los Olivos in early July and will remain on display through the end of the month. Visit gallerylosolivos.com for more info. The gallery is located at 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.
HORIZON HUES: Two ag workers gaze at a chapel-shaped structure in the distance, in Bobby Williams’ oil painting titled The Mission
COMMUNITY CULTIVATORS: Agricultural workers are the subjects consistently found in local artist Bobby Williams’ Pillars series, which includes this piece titled Tilling the Rows . Williams’ 15 most recent oil paintings in the ongoing series are currently on display at Gallery Los Olivos.
COURTESY IMAGES BY BOBBY WILLIAMS
OUT OF SIGHT: Santa Ynez-based painter Bobby Williams decided not to depict ag workers’ faces in pieces like Turquoise Sky and other works in the Pillars exhibit to comment on “generations of people who do this work, who have done this work, without much regard or recognition,” according to Williams’ artist statement.
MISSION POSSIBILITIES: As part of its Wine and Fire 2024 program, the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance hosts its Grand Tasting at La
Mission in Lompoc on Saturday, Aug. 17, from 5 to 8 p.m.
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Leos aren’t the only fire signs worth celebrating this August, as several local venues fall under the banner of Wine and Fire 2024.
Hosted by the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance, the four-day program (Aug. 15 through 18) highlights the lion’s share of the group’s member wineries, while pairing many with barbecue, wood-fired pizzas, and other food selections.
“Almost every member comes out, and that’s usually about 40 wineries,” said Barbara Satterfield, executive director of the alliance.
As of July 12, about 35 wineries in the alliance had signed up to participate so far, Satterfield said. The final list will be tallied up sometime ahead of Wine and Fire’s start date on Thursday, Aug. 15, at Sanford Winery and Vineyards in Lompoc.
During this kick-off event, guests can look forward to enjoying a variety of wine selections with fire-grilled flatbreads and cheese tables provided by Orcutt’s Pizzeria Bello Forno. Prior to the program’s Grand Tasting at La Purisima Mission on Saturday, Aug. 17, Wine and Fire will hold two additional wine receptions in Lompoc and Buellton with barbecue offerings from High on the Hog Catering and the Hitching Post 2, respectively.
The first of these receptions pays tribute to a beloved grape harvest tradition that originated in France, Satterfield explained.
During Wine and Fire’s La Paulée dinner, slated for Friday, Aug. 16, at Babcock Winery in Lompoc, 18 participating winemakers will honor the medieval practice the event is named for.
“At the end of harvest, everybody would get together ... and do a big celebration dinner,” Satterfield said, describing the tradition.
“Everybody would bring their best wines to show off to their neighbors.”
While other events in the Wire and Fine lineup focus on wines produced from fruit in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, all kinds of wines are welcome at the La Paulée dinner.
“With this dinner, we encourage people to bring wines that they want to share at their dinner table if they want,” said Satterfield, who added that the event will encompass 18 tables of eight to 10 guests, with each table led by a specific vintner.
Featured winemakers are asked to bring a unique bottle of any kind they wish to divvy up among those seated at their table.
“It doesn’t necessarily have to be Sta. Rita Hills. It can just be whatever they want to share,” Satterfield said. “There’ll be 18 different wineries hosting the tables, so there’ll be a wide spectrum of wines for sure.
“Guests can bring their wines too. Not a lot of them do,” Satterfield added with a laugh.
The event’s focus shifts swiftly back to Sta. Rita Hills wines at Wine and Fire’s Grand Tasting, although its featured food vendors
Purisima
MEET THE DIRECTOR: Central Coast local Barbara Satterfield has served as the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance’s executive director for about nine years. Satterfield also works as the Hitching Post 2’s floor manager.
EATS continued page
are not required to incorporate the program’s fire-driven theme.
Alongside wood-fired pizzas from Lompoc’s LouBirds and grub from some barbecue vendors, some non-fire offerings from Orcutt’s 805 Charcuterie, Lompoc’s South Side Coffee Co., and other businesses will be available to attendees of the Grand Tasting.
Compared to some other wine festivals’ grand tasting events held periodically in the area, Wine and Fire’s event is refreshingly intimate, Satterfield said.
“We don’t sell more than 500 tickets to our Grand Tasting,” said Satterfield, who added that the capacity limits for Wine and Fire’s additional wine receptions vary from 100 to 150 guests.
While the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance represents wineries of various sizes and yearly
production quantities, Satterfield said that events like Wine and Fire are especially beneficial to the organization’s boutique producers.
“We have wineries that make 500 cases of wine. We have wineries that make 25,000 cases of wine. ... They all bring something to the table,” Satterfield said. “A lot of our members are the smaller wineries because our membership dues are very affordable compared to some of the other groups out there. It’s a lot easier for them to sign on with us.
“It’s good exposure for a lot of the smaller wineries to be at these events ... to get their names out there,” added Satterfield, who described the alliance’s overall mission as to help “spread the word” about its vintners. m
Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood hopes to accomplish that mission as well. Send comments to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
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