Lompoc’s mayoral race is heating up. Incumbent Jenelle Osborne, who’s been on the City Council since 2016 and mayor since 2018, faces former City Councilmember Jim Mosby along with newcomer Lydia Perez. All candidates say they want housing development, more businesses, and new revenue sources for the city. Mosby, who ran for mayor in 2018 and 2022, says he wants to reevaluate the city’s budget and pursue annexation. Perez, who works for People’s Self-Help Housing, wants more state and federal partnerships and wants to increase Latino representation. Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor talks with each about their goals [6].
This week, you can also read about who’s challenging Santa Maria Mayor Alice Patino for her spot on the dais [4]; the rockin’ women behind Babes Against the Machine [22]; and the two competitors poised to eat as many aebelskiver as possible [25]
TO LEAD: Left to right, incumbent Jenelle Osborne is running against former City Councilmember and 2022 mayoral candidate Jim Mosby and newcomer Lydia Perez.
• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) called on his colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to act on legislation to avert a pay cut for federal wildland firefighters on Sept. 30, according to a Sept. 11 statement from Carbajal’s office. “As Californians have been baking this week in an extreme heat wave, our brave federal firefighters choose to put on heavy gear and head into the heat. They spend these scorching months cutting down trees, digging lines, and sleeping yards away from these deadly wildfires—to keep us safe,” Carbajal said in the statement. “And if we don’t act soon, Congress is going to thank these brave firefighters for their service with a pay cut.” In 2021, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided a temporary pay raise for federal wildland firefighters, but that raise expires at the end of the fiscal year. If allowed to expire, wildland firefighters could see their pay cut by as much as 50 percent, a cut that the Forest Service estimates would likely cause thousands of firefighters to leave the federal workforce. Earlier this year, Carbajal and his colleagues from the Western United States introduced the bipartisan Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act to permanently increase the base pay, deployment pay, and benefits for federal wildland firefighters.
• U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California), Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), Chris Murphy (D-Connecticut), Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont), and John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania) recently introduced the Student Food Security Act of 2024, bicameral legislation to address food insecurity faced by college students nationwide, according to a Sept. 13 statement from Padilla’s office. According to a recent survey, nearly 40 percent of community college students are food insecure, more than half are housing insecure, and 18 percent have experienced homelessness. These factors negatively impact student success and graduation rates. The Student Food Security Act would support foodinsecure students by expanding eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), allowing students to use SNAP benefits at on-campus dining facilities, increasing outreach by federal and state agencies to food-insecure students, and establishing an annual grant program to aid colleges and universities in better identifying and serving students. The bill includes key provisions from Sen. Padilla’s BASIC Act, bicameral legislation to ensure college students are able to meet their basic needs while pursuing their education. “College students shouldn’t have to choose between buying their textbooks or affording their next meal,” Padilla said in the statement. “Permanently expanding nutritional assistance and access to basic needs for college students is vital to ensuring young people juggling work, family life, and financial insecurity can still succeed in higher education.”
• Finalizing the complete package of historic bills to crack down on retail and property crime, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed AB 1960, which will create steeper felony penalties for large-scale felony theft offenses, according to a Sept. 12 statement from Newsom’s office. The bill would mandate that courts impose an enhanced sentence when suspects take, damage, or destroy property valued at more than $50,000 during the commission of any felony, including retail theft. Targeting large-scale fencing operations, the same enhanced sentences will also be applicable to those who knowingly receive stolen property or resell such property. “California already has some of the strictest retail and property crime laws in the nation—and we have made them even stronger with our recent legislation. We can be tough on crime while also being smart on crime—we don’t need to go back to broken policies of the last century,” Newsom said in the statement. “Mass incarceration has been proven ineffective and is not the answer—we need true accountability and strategies that enhance our nation-leading efforts to address crime.” m
THREE-TIME CANDIDATE: Former Santa Maria-Bonita School District board member Will Smith is running against incumbent Mayor Alice Patino, Santa Maria Joint-Union school board member Diana Perez, and first-time candidate Andrew Foster in the 2024 general election.
Will Smith, Andrew Foster join Santa Maria mayor race
Former Santa Maria-Bonita School District board member Will Smith is running for his third time against longtime incumbent Santa Maria Mayor Alice Patino.
The two will be joined in this general election by former Santa Maria Joint Union High School board member Diana Perez and first-time candidate Andrew Foster.
The Sun featured Patino and Perez in the Aug. 1 article “Looking to the future: Diana Perez faces Alice Patino in Santa Maria mayoral race.”
Smith lost to Patino in 2016 and 2020. This time around, Smith said he supports annexation to expand the city’s boundaries and make room for housing, creating a resource center for the city’s homeless population, building a new events center to bring the city additional revenue, and taking another look at the budget to pay the city’s firefighters higher wages.
“We’re not where we should be. … Santa Maria was trying to keep this small-city mentality, but it’s so big and we have to expand because we’re imploding,” he said. “We need to take a look at where we can expand, even using eminent domain if we have to because we are going at such an alarming pace right now.”
Santa Maria is anticipating about 35,000 new residents by 2050. Eminent domain is the government’s authority to take private property and convert it into public use.
Smith said he’d like to see the city expand east of Highway 101 into unincorporated land to make room for more housing. Smith said he understands that there are current annexation efforts playing out for the Richard’s Ranch development, but “Orcutt residents are not very keen on that idea.”
“We have to find a way to think creatively to prepare for the future. We are a small city and have that small-city charm, but 120,000 to 130,000 people projected to grow, you have to get out of that small-town model,” Smith said.
By investing and building an events center, the city could see alternative revenue sources that can help the city address its projected budget deficit, he added.
“I feel that people should vote for me because I’m consistent. I’ve fought the school district up to the Supreme Court. It didn’t turn out the way I wanted to,” Smith said.
Before running for mayor, Smith taught in the Santa Maria-Bonita district for nine years, resigned in July 2010, and won election to the school board shortly after, where he served until 2014—losing his seat to Ricky Lara. A failed recall attempt occurred in 2012 after a community group alleged that he made poor financial decisions for the district, according to previous Sun reporting.
His teaching license was revoked in 2013 after
he was suspended from his school site several times for alleged misconduct, including physically and verbally assaulting students and misusing a computer, according to previous Sun reporting. He fought the decision in trial court, but he lost in 2017 when the court maintained the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing’s decision.
“While I got a lot of things done, there were a lot of false accusations and I had to fight against the district,” he said. “It’s a close, tight community, if they like you they push you. If they don’t like you, they dog you.”
Foster said he is running for mayor because he believes “the people have lost sight of the Constitution, and it seems to be rampantly abused by businesses, local law enforcement, and just in general,” he said.
“We need an education program throughout the city. Both employees and citizens, we need to learn our duties and responsibilities as citizens and public employees,” Foster said.
If elected, Foster said he wants the city to provide more of its services in-person rather than through technology, cut city spending to get the city “out of debt,” and fight against state housing mandates like accessory dwelling unit development.
“I don’t think the state can force it on us. I don’t think it’s legal; I don’t think it’s constitutional. I think we can say, ‘We don’t have to follow an illegal law,’” Foster said.
If you “accept it’s a true law” then the state can force it on the city. If the city says no, “they won’t do it,” Foster said. The state has serious consequences, like loss of local control, if jurisdictions don’t abide by housing development law.
He supported expanding toward the Garey and Sisquoc areas to make room for more housing development and “maybe raising the cost of housing to keep people from buying here,” he said.
“I think we could control a lot of the problems if we get people learning what the Constitution is. Let’s start quoting the Constitution,” Foster said. “They don’t care because they weren’t taught to care. … We need to get the people back to mentally and physically being citizens.”
—Taylor O’Connor
Chumash marine sanctuary gets closer to designation
The Central Coast is a step closer to being home to the first tribally nominated national marine sanctuary.
On Sept. 6, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced the release of the final environmental impact statement for designation of the proposed Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary. The mammoth document is split into two volumes, totaling more than 700 pages. It analyzes the environmental effects of the proposed action and a range of alternatives for sanctuary designation.
“But what it doesn’t have in it is the exact language for the final management plan, and it does not have the exact language for the final rule and regulations, so those will come out after the 30 days is up,” Sierra Club Santa Lucia Chapter Coordinator Gianna Patchen said.
Now NOAA is in what community partners like the Sierra Club are calling a “cooling off period.” It’s a 30-day waiting stage after the publication of the final environmental impact statement before the agency makes a concrete decision about designation. NOAA can release the final management plans and regulation layout in October if it chooses to designate the sanctuary. Following that checkpoint, a 45-day state and congressional review period must pass before the marine sanctuary receives the anticipated finalized designation around December 2024/January 2025.
With more than 10 years of campaign work and a record level of support from more than 110,000 comments during the public comment period under its belt, the marine sanctuary’s designation is on a timeline to be finalized during President Joe Biden’s time in office, which, according to Patchen, is significant.
“If designated, the proposed sanctuary would be the 17th in the National Marine Sanctuary System and contribute to the goals of the BidenHarris administration’s America the Beautiful initiative, which supports locally led collaborative conservation efforts with a goal to conserve and restore at least 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030,” a NOAA press release read.
The 2023 public comment period for the designation produced a clarion call from the public and officials alike that urged NOAA to adopt sanctuary boundaries that covered 7,600 miles across San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties coast and connect with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to create a contiguous protected space. During the public comment phase, NOAA preferred a boundary that’s 2,000 miles smaller, starting from Point Buchon and winding down farther south than the initial boundary to cover more of the Gaviota Coast. But it cut out the waters off Cambria and Morro Bay, the Morro Bay Estuary, and Morro Rock.
The release of the final environmental impact statement for designation showed that NOAA’s final preferred alternative shrunk further. It excludes Point Buchon and starts from the waters off Diablo Canyon Power Plant.
Still, some wiggle room exists.
“We were really excited to see in the release of the final EIS [environmental impact statement], a boundary adjustment action plan which outlines the potential for expanding the boundary to meet the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary’s southern boundary,” Patchen said. “So, that was wonderful reassurance that this is not the end. … We will be working to make sure that we get the entire nominated boundaries with this boundary adjustment action plan in the not too distant future.”
—Bulbul Rajagopal
Supervisors highlight traffic concerns during Arctic Cold discussion
Despite planning challenges, traffic concerns, and additional needed regulations, the Arctic Cold Processor and Freezer facility can move forward with its operations after the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors approved project revisions.
“This literally can help bring products of Santa Maria, our berry markets, that can go worldwide because of the nature of this project,” David Swenk, representing the planned Arctic Cold development, told the Board of Supervisors during its Sept. 17 meeting.
The project, which has been in the planning process for nearly two years, entails a 449,248-square-foot building with a freezer and processing facility—the largest such facility in the county—inside that would bring in products from local berry farmers to freeze and process into purees like jams or jellies.
The Arctic Cold facility would be located on Betteravia Road, just a mile east of Santa Maria, outside city limits. It would employ more than 300 people and bring in more than $34 million in volume sales, according to Swenk’s presentation.
“It brings our area farmers access to regional, national, international markets, and they have access to major national clients like Smuckers, Sunkist, Pictsweet, and Titan Foods,” he said.
The project halted after being cleared for construction in 2022 because it needed a general plan amendment to allow for pasteurization in processing.
“Titan Foods, one of the customers, they create purees for jams [or] jellies, like Smuckers, and that requires chemical reactions, heating, pasteurization, which is required by national FDA standards,” Swenk said. “If you’re doing something that’s pasteurizing, it’s considered intensive ag, and you need the general plan amendment placed on it.”
Arctic Freeze temporarily removed processing from its facility in order to allow the freezer portion to move forward, and the company worked with the county to get its overlay.
“We understand there’s a risk, but because of the nature of the time, they have to have this building operating for our farmers. We had to go this route, we had no choice,” he said.
The supervisors ultimately approved the project with added conditions that shift changes would occur outside of peak hours (6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.) after 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson, whose district encompasses the project, shared concerns about semi-trucks blocking Betteravia’s right of way already being an issue. He said he’s concerned about what the roads will look like once 300 employees are coming in and more semis come through the facility.
Hartmann said.
Correction
—Taylor O’Connor
In the Aug. 29 article “Housing, homelessness highlighted in 2nd District City Council Race,” the Sun misstated Santa Maria City Council 2nd District Candidate Ben Ortiz’s position on rent control. Ortiz is in favor of rent control. The Sun regrets the error.
“So we’re caught between a rock and a hard spot. We need to move this project forward; it’s really valuable for our community, but at the same time there’s concerns about impacts,” he said. “What still remains is the traffic issue. Talking to the community that I have and looking at this, I think this type of facility is 24-hours as is. The key is to stagger the shift change outside of peak hours.”
Swenk accepted Nelson’s shift-change condition, and county planning staff informed him that the county “overplanned” for parking to give space for truck queuing and mitigate traffic issues.
While the supervisors were able to move this project forward, they agreed that it should have been done as a whole instead of broken into pieces.
Third District Supervisor Joan Hartmann asked if the overlay, which caused the delay, was a good requirement to keep moving forward.
“I am reluctant to opine on that without investigating that further,” County Planning and Development Director Lisa Plowman said, responding to Hartmann’s question. “We are looking at allowing some smaller processing through the ag enterprise program we are bringing to the board, but it’s something we’d have to look into.”
Clarification
The Sept. 5 article “Park protection: Senior residents advocate for zoning protections after management group plans to convert a Santa Maria mobile home park to all-ages” was adjusted to add information and further explain the ownership of Del Cielo Mobile Home Estates, the Fresno mobile home park, and circumstances in Cotati after Harmony Communities CEO Matt Davies told the Sun that Harmony Communities does not own any mobile home parks.
Santa Barbara County deed documents show that Del Cielo Manufactured Community LLC, Shady Lakes LLC, KMLM Investors LLC, and Amberwood Manufactured Housing Community LLC are the companies named as the grantees of Del Cielo. According to California secretary of state business filings, all of these LLCs have the same Stockton address as Harmony Communities Inc., and the entities’ agents or managers are all affiliated with Harmony Communities Inc. Davies told the Sun that “agents for service of process don’t confer ownership. Managing something for someone doesn’t confer ownership.” m
Thursday, October 17
4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Rooftop Patio at Toyota of Santa
1643 South Bradley, Santa
In Providing a Brighter Future for Our Community’s Youngest Children in Foster Care.
Maria
Maria
Leading Lompoc
Jim Mosby, Jenelle Osborne, and Lydia Perez face off for Lompoc mayor in November general election
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
im Mosby and Jenelle Osborne are again fighting to become Lompoc’s next mayor. This time around, the two veteran local politicians will be joined by newcomer Lydia Perez.
Incumbent Osborne has served on the City Council since 2016, becoming mayor in 2018.
Mosby, a former City Council member, was first appointed to the council in 2014 and elected in 2016. He ran for mayor against Osborne in 2018 and again in 2022, but lost both times. He lost his 4th District seat to current Councilmember Jeremy Ball in 2020.
Perez works for People’s Self-Help Housing—a nonprofit that develops low-income housing and provides housing assistance to its clients.
All candidates said they promise positive change to the city—specifically, increasing housing development, recruiting more businesses to Lompoc, and identifying new revenue sources for the city’s general fund or finding more ways to save money.
Osborne’s challengers believe it’s time for new leadership because the city hasn’t seen change. The incumbent claims that the city has finally seen some progress under her leadership after years of financial hardship, and she wants to continue moving the city forward.
On Election Day, Lompoc residents are voting for mayor and whether to convert Ken Adam Park to private property, and 1st District residents are voting for a new council member.
Originally slated to run in the 1st District against former Planning Commissioner Steve Bridge, Perez ultimately decided to run for mayor because she felt she “could be more effective.”
“Not that my vote has more power, but being able to go to the county and state level to form such partnerships,” Perez said. “We need someone who can relate to our demographic and not be afraid to speak up. We need someone who is really going to show up and represent them at the city level.”
Perez is the only Latino running in any Lompoc race this cycle. With 1st District Councilmember Gilda Aiello (formerly Cordova) stepping down this term, Perez would be the only Latina on the dais if elected.
“A lot of our Hispanic demographic is underrepresented. There’s no interpretation at a city level,” she said. “The Hispanic population is not coming out and not being included, and it’s time for change and time to be inclusive.”
The city needs to focus more on partnerships at the state and federal level and take advantage of grant opportunities—like the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or Community Development Block Grants—for housing development, she said. She wants to take advantage of the city’s vacant lots and promote mixed-use development to bring in businesses, jobs, and housing.
With more than 300 jobs projected to be created at Vandenberg Space Force Base in the next seven years, she added, Lompoc needs to support youth entering the local workforce by establishing more science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs and vocational training.
“The biggest concern is they are not prepared for the job market, they don’t have the interview skills, or they don’t want to go to college,” Perez said. “It’s everybody’s responsibility to make sure the knowledge, information, and resources are out there. The school board doesn’t work directly with the city right now. … I think we could accomplish so much more together than we are right now.”
To retain public safety employees, Perez promised to revisit the budget to better support and prioritize first responders who are coping with low wages.
“We have this revolving door of new [employees] and then they’re gone to a different station because they are getting paid more,” Perez said. “We need to focus on their pay and focus on [keeping] the people we hire. If you think about it, we can’t afford the increases, but we are wasting so much money on hiring, training, recruitment.”
Osborne agrees that the public safety employees need higher wages, and she wants to diversify the city’s businesses—including in manufacturing and tech jobs with space exploration—and streamline the planning process to help generate more sales tax for the general fund.
“We recognize that our community is ag-based, and that’s important to us, but we also have the military here; then you have the school district, the hospital district, and the city is a business employer,” she said.
In order to attract more businesses and retain employees, the city needs a more diverse housing supply, Osborne said. More than 30 percent of Lompoc’s housing is Section 8—which is property tax not coming into the city’s general tax fund or its school district, she said. She wants to partner with developers who want to develop market-rate housing on small city lots, create development incentives, and start a program to help residents with down payments or cover realtor fees.
Osborne said that she has established relationships with state, federal, and Vandenberg officials to get grant funding—including federal appropriations to help complete the new dispatch center and provide new radio equipment and body cameras for the Police Department.
“We’ve pivoted and utilized the funds we have been able to generate with cannabis revenue and improved sales tax revenue and a healthier hotel tax,” she said. “Beyond what people think of as traditional public safety, we’ve been able to use appropriations, Proposition 68 funds, to improve our parks, put in streetlights, and paving [roads] when we can.”
Perez and Osborne both oppose the proposal to convert Ken Adam Park into a space-themed education center. However, Mosby believes it would be a huge benefit to the local economy and would create needed STEM and space education programming.
“The park land was given to the city of Lompoc to do this,” Mosby said. “It wasn’t acquired for the city of Lompoc to sit on it and let it rot.” Mosby said he supports annexation and expansion to develop more housing—despite recent denials from the Santa Barbara County Local Agency Formation Commission to develop onto ag land.
“Why are we denied? Santa Maria is allowed to grow, Santa Barbara can grow, but Lompoc is not allowed to grow,” he said. “We have to take matters into our own hands.”
If elected, he wants to go through the budget “with a fine-tooth comb” because he believes the City Council is “spending money like drunken pilots,” he said. The council approved “unsustainable” raises for city staff, Mosby said, and passed out COVID hero bonuses “like trickor-treat candy.” He added that utility rates jumped 30 percent, and the city’s tax revenue dropped this fiscal year.
“When I was on council before, to revitalize the economy we brought back nearly 2,000 jobs to the economy. We had a big boom going on. This council has chased a lot of that away,” Mosby said. “What I saw, what was happening in the town, projects were walking away, crimes were bad, drug issues, urban campers, and the public—especially when it gets dark—people were afraid to get out of their cars and leave their house.”
Osborne and the county grand jury say otherwise.
By 2021, the Lompoc Police Department lost a third of its officers, and equipment failures hindered immediate responses, causing “an unrelenting upward trend in violent crime,” due to budget cut decisions made by Mosby and former Mayor John Lin, according to a Santa Barbara County grand jury report.
“It’s easy to see his impact, the mishandling of departments, positions lost, and how we struggled,” Osborne said. “When he lost his seat on council and [we] got a council that was more balanced, diverse, we have had more respectful conversations.” Osborne added that utility cost increases were necessary because of the gas price spike and infrastructure mandates.
“It’s not profit, it’s rate recovery, cost of providing services, and repair and emergencies,” she said. “[Taking] the time to invest and increase revenue and use it appropriately, you can really lift up the entire community and see benefits.”
Mosby said he “tightened the belt” on the budget, and helped pass the needed sales tax to get the city through some tough times.
“I don’t see what we’ve done negatively,” he said. “However it works out, we need to remember we are one small community. Remember everybody out there, not just City Hall.” m
Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.
ELECTION TALK: Incumbent Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne (left) faces challengers former City Councilmember Jim Mosby (center) and newcomer Lydia Perez.
What happens when Adventist Health comes to town?
Patients and workers at Sierra Vista and Twin Cities hospitals get the short end of the stick.
Adventist’s Corporate Playbook:
• Exacerbate the short staffing crisis with low wages.
• Cut healthcare coverage for frontline workers.
• Extract profits from patients in our communities.
NEW LEADERSHIP: As the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation’s new executive director, Brittany Avila Wazny hopes to continue expanding the nonprofit’s programs that support families with children who are diagnosed with cancer.
Support system
Brittany Avila Wazny takes over as the new Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation executive director
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
Our team at Pediatric Medical Group is dedicated to the health and well-being of your child. Whether you have an infant, preschooler, or teenager, we work closely with parents to make sure that our care meets their children’s personal needs.
Call to schedule your child’s well exam today.
Apersonal connection ultimately led Brittany Avila Wazny to work at the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation.
“My brother was diagnosed with cancer as a teenager in 2008, and that had a pretty big impact on my and my family’s life,” Avila Wazny said. “I understand what families are going through. I realized how fortunate my family was and how many challenges the families we are providing care for are experiencing.”
While the experience remained emotionally difficult, a children’s hospital was just 10 minutes down the road from her childhood home in the Central Valley.
“My parents, with a fair amount of stress, maintained their full-time jobs and took turns sitting at the hospital,” Avila Wazny said. “We were able to hire him a tutor to stay on track with school and be able to relatively stay fulltime working. We didn’t have the loss of income many families experience.”
As the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation’s new executive director, she hopes to support families facing similar struggles. The foundation works with Central Coast families—spanning from Ventura to SLO counties—who have children diagnosed with cancer to provide financial, emotional, and educational support. About 45 percent of the families served are from Santa Barbara County, with about 80 percent of that percentage making up North County residents.
“I was hired by our now former executive director who came in and really realized that the foundation still had incredible programs, but internally the culture was suffering,” Avila Wazny said. “We had high turnover; the ‘nonprofit burnout’ was present. He took an approach in turning our culture, our infrastructure, and the overall health and wellness of the institution.”
As the senior development director, Avila Wazny fundraised to meet the organization’s goals and helped increase the budget and the family programming that clients “have been asking for for years,” she said.
“I think the most significant one and most significant to the families is we increased our financial
assistance by 40 percent. Now, qualifying families receive a minimum of $5,000, and depending on their journey, we can do up to $17,000,” Avila Wazny said.
Under the emotional support category, the foundation added individual and marital counseling to better meet the needs of an individual or couple rather than offering only a support group. The organization also adjusted its travel support.
“We found through our families, about 90 percent of families are having to travel for their service or the majority of their treatment. … That cost of travel was weighing on a lot of families of all income levels,” Avila Wazny said. “We have a transportation and lodging fund now where they can receive up to $2,000 in hotel or Airbnb gift cards, four one-way trips in gas gift cards to their treatment center.
“I think that’s just further alleviating that financial burden just simply from the transportation and lodging aspect.”
Now, at the helm of the ship, Avila Wazny is working on the foundation’s next strategic plan to ensure the programs are “available as long as pediatric cancer exists.”
“We are looking at just trying to see if there are other ways we can increase the amount of financial assistance. … We recognize that the average out-of-pocket cost for pediatric cancer is $35,000. Even our $17,000 is just a drop in the bucket,” she said.
When Avila Wazny first joined the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation, the team received money to invest in a building that could be close to hospitals and provide a space for families to go and receive services. Now, the team will be “ramping up the hunt” for a building.
“I’m very lucky to be starting this chapter with probably the strongest team I’ve ever had to work with,” she said, “and probably the strongest programs I’ve ever seen.”
Highlight
• The Santa Barbara County Elections Office invites all eligible residents to register to vote in anticipation of the upcoming presidential general election on Nov. 5. The last day to register to vote is Oct. 21. A voter must be a citizen of the United States and be at least 18 years of age on Election Day to be eligible to vote. Voters can verify the accuracy of their voter registration, including residential and mailing addresses, at the California secretary of state’s website, sos.ca.gov/ elections/registrationstatus, or the Santa Barbara County Elections Office website at sbcvote. com. Visit registertovote.ca.gov to register or to make an address change or other updates to voter registration. Voter registration cards can be found in several locations, including elections offices, most post offices, and public libraries. The cards can be returned, postage free, to the Santa Barbara County Elections Office—511 Lakeside Parkway, suite 134, in Santa Maria, or 401 E. Cypress, suite 102, in Lompoc. m Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.
All records for any Special Education student that was born within the year 2000 and attended a Santa Maria Joint Union High School District school, your physical special education records are available for pick up at no charge from the District Office. All 2000 not picked up by June 1, 2025 will be destroyed.
If you have any questions, or to arrange a pickup date/time, contact:
Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. of Special Education
Santa Maria Joint Union High School District
2560 Skyway Dr. Santa Maria, CA 93455
805-922-4573 ext. 4311
ATENCION estudiantes anteriores de SMJUHSD nacidos en 2000!
Todos los registros de cualquier estudiante de Educación Especial que haya nacido dentro del año 2000 y asistió a una escuela del Distrito Escolar de las escuelas preparatorias de Santa Maria, sus registros físicos de educación especial están disponibles para recoger sin cargo en la Oficina del Distrito. Todos los registros del 2000 que no hayan sido recogidos para el 1 de junio de 2025 serán destruidos. Si tiene alguna pregunta, o para programar una fecha/hora de recogida, comuníquense con:
Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. of Special Education
Santa Maria Joint Union High School District
2560 Skyway Dr. Santa Maria, CA 93455
805-922-4573 ext. 4311
The
Santa
Maria Joint Union High School District
Special Education - Child Find
The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) seeks to identify, locate, and evaluate high school age students suspected of having a disability who may be eligible for special education services designed to meet their educational needs at no cost to families. This includes students that are highly mobile, migrant, experiencing homelessness, students that are wards of the state, and students attending private schools located within SMJUHSD boundaries. If you suspect your child has a disability, contact the school special education department or district office Special Education Department.
Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)
El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria Educación Especial - Búsqueda de Estudiantes
El Distrito Unificado de Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria (SMJUHSD) busca identificar, localizar y evaluar a los estudiantes en edad de escuela preparatoria sospechosos de tener una discapacidad que puede ser elegible para servicios de educación especial diseñados para satisfacer sus necesidades educativas sin costo alguno para las familias. Esto incluye a los estudiantes que son altamente móviles, migrantes, sin hogar, estudiantes que están bajo la tutela del estado, y los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas privadas ubicadas dentro los limites de SMJUHSD. Si sospecha que su hijo tiene una discapacidad, comuníquese con el departamento de educación especial de la escuela u oficina de Educación Especial del distrito SMJUHSD.
Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)
What do you think of the county’s pipeline valve settlement?
60% It’s been delayed for too long; the oil operators deserve to use their assets.
20% The county doesn’t have jurisdiction; it has no say in the project.
20% The county should hold a public meeting around its decision.
0% It’s frustrating, but at least there are safety measures as part of the settlement. 5 Votes
Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.
3 Santa Maria, CA 93454
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Do you think that local politicians should be able to set the minimum wage for workers whose efforts support the nation? And what would happen if they did?
Well, some of the more liberal members of the Board of Supervisors are “studying” a proposal to set $26 an hour as the local labor wage rate for farmworkers. It’s almost as if they think they are replacing or at least aiding the farmworkers’ union.
Recently a new phrase was introduced into the political arena: social justice, which is the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society. This definition is akin to the definition of “socialism” and is the latest cause for many politicians and especially the elite liberal class.
No one denies that farmworkers work hard. Just take a tour around the scores of farms and ranches in the North County and you’ll see men and women doing the backbreaking tasks of picking crops, moving heavy irrigation pipes, packaging produce for shipment, hoeing weeds, and moving cattle on horses. Others tend vineyards, harvest grapes, and run dusty combines to harvest beans.
labor, you will ultimately and almost on a direct upward curve increase consumer costs. That means whether you’re rich or in the low- to medium-income category, you’re going to pay more for that head of cauliflower, pot roast, or bottle of wine.
Andy Caldwell, an advocate for agriculture and industry, says agriculture is an “over $2 billion per year” industry in our county. Unfortunately, the farmers’ voice isn’t as loud as the idle rich who finance political campaigns and activist groups that have the ear of the politicians they support.
It is the 95 percent of the people in this county who don’t live on large estates who ultimately pay for the fantasies and socialistic tendencies of the Board of Supervisors majority.
Studying the wage proposal is just one of several actions the Board of Supervisors has taken that has a direct and adverse impact on local industries that provide goods, services, and jobs for their constituents. Recently the board majority consisting of Supervisors Laura Capps, Joan Hartmann, and lame duck Das Williams approved the 2030 Climate Action Plan.
Supervisor Bob Nelson will take his place on the committee, which will provide more balance.
And Caldwell says, “I can assure you it is going to cost billions. In fact, the largest trucking company and the largest winery in the county have already closed due to similar mandates being imposed by other agencies,” (“An Urgent Plea and Call to Action,” Santa Barbara Current, Sept. 8).
“Farmers in every sector of our economy have told me in no uncertain terms that a $26-hour minimum wage for farmworkers would cause their immediate bankruptcy and the certain layoff of their entire workforce. The truth is strawberry producers have already been losing money for the past two years and so too have wine grape and flower growers,” Caldwell says.
Another fact that seemed to escape the ad hoc committee’s attention was highlighted by the Santa Barbara County Taxpayer Advocacy Center. They asked, “Are you even aware that two statewide ag associations, Western Growers and United Ag, through their employer members provide health care to over 80,000 farmworkers in the state of California? And you all know how many workers work in so many other non-ag economic sectors that receive no health care benefits from their employers at all. So why target just the agricultural industry.”
They do this every day whether it’s sunny and warm or overcast, damp, and in the 50s. Because harvest happens on Sundays and holidays too. You see, nature has its own calendar. It seems that most politicians can’t grasp the fact that if you increase input costs, such as
These three never asked “how much is this going to cost and where will the money come from” before they cast their votes. The Santa Barbara County Taxpayer Advocacy Center estimates it would cost $23 million a year for the next six years to implement—where will this money come from? Well, no revenue source has been identified yet.
Speak up! Send us your views and opinion to letters@santamariasun.com.
Now two of the three, Joan Hartmann and Das Williams, are serving on an ad hoc committee to explore wages and other farmworker issues. But there is hope, Williams leaves the Board of Supervisors in January after being defeated in March and
Over the last couple of decades there has been a concerted effort by the more liberal members of the Board of Supervisors to eviscerate revenue-producing industries. The oil and gas industries were essentially run out of our county because well-heeled activist groups and Board of Supervisors members bought and paid for by the idle rich in Montecito decided they had to “save the Earth.”
Now their target seems to be the agricultural industry. Maybe they haven’t figured out where their food comes from or they just don’t care how much they’ll pay for it.
But all of us who are on fixed incomes or who have lower to middle-class incomes sure do. It is the 95 percent of the people in this county who don’t live on large estates who ultimately pay for the fantasies and socialistic tendencies of the Board of Supervisors majority.
Every time politicians try to fix something, it’s the “little guy” that always loses. m
Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.
WRITE NOW! We want to know what you think about everything. Send your 250-word letter to Sun Letters, 801 S Broadway Suite 3, Santa Maria, CA 93454. You can also fax it (1-805-546-8641) or e-mail it (letters@santamariasun.com). All letters must include a name, address, and phone number for verification purposes; may be edited for space or clarity; and will be posted to santamariasun.com.
Be an advocate for truth
“The content of our consciousness is the product of our conditioning.”
What we know is what we learned since we understood the spoken and written word, and from what we were told, experienced, observed at home, at school, at church, wherever we happened to be. This is who we are and how we become who we are.
“Truth is only available to those who have the courage to question whatever they have been taught.”
Truth is an indisputable fact. Too many people just believe what they are told.
“Are we so well informed we could never be wrong?”
It is a responsibility for all of us to be sure. Seek the truth and stand up for it.
Ellie Ripley Arroyo Grande
This year feels like a rerun in some parts of Northern Santa Barbara County. In Santa Maria, Will Smith is again running to unseat longtime incumbent Mayor Alice Patino
It’s his third time running for the spot against Patino.
With his checkered past, I’m not sure in what world enough people exist to help him get his name on the ballot, but I guess it’s in Santa Maria. Smith, who’s long been a Santa Maria-Bonita School District agitator, prides himself on well, being an “agitator.” It’s a badge of honor for him. And he seems to believe that the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing’s decision to take his teaching license away due to misconduct that included physically and verbally assaulting students was due to “false accusations.”
“It’s a close, tight-knit community,” Smith said. “If they like you, they push you. If they don’t like you, they dog you.”
He got a lot of stuff done, you know? And people didn’t like it.
“Respondent [Smith] engaged in various deceptions and falsehoods that involved moral turpitude. When confronted with evidence of his misconduct, … he offered false explanations. He ignored or rebelled against the discipline imposed on him. He was not honest on a number of levels,” an administrative law judge wrote in the initial credentialing decision, which Smith fought and lost.
Sounds like a stand-up guy! Well, he’s right about one thing. He’s consistent. But not in the way you might want a mayor to be.
Not only does Smith have a consistently shady history, he seems to think that eminent domain is the way to go when it comes to development in the city.
“We need to take a look at where we can expand, even using eminent domain if we have to because we are going at such an alarming pace right now,” he said.
Interesting. I wonder how property-owning voters feel about that proposal?
I’m not sure it’s the direction we want to take city policy.
Meanwhile, in Lompoc, another political upstart who didn’t make it very far is again running against incumbent Mayor Jenelle Osborne Jim Mosby—the classic in-your-face politico who claims fiscal conservancy as his motto—didn’t do enough to dig Lompoc into a hole the first time around.
He’s ready for another go!
It’s also his third time running against Osborne. Third time’s a charm?
I’m not sure that the city, which is finally out of the financial hole it was living in with Mosby on the City Council a few years ago, can take another term of the instigator. He’s claiming that the city had a “big boom” while he was on the council (from 2014 to 2020), but my little birdbrain can’t remember that.
All I can remember is the infighting, bitter commentary, and the extreme belt tightening that didn’t do the public any favors. Mosby managed to shave a bunch of people out of the city budget, rile up the Police Department, and eventually do the very thing he didn’t want to do in the first place: put a sales tax increase on the ballot.
I’m pretty sure Mosby isn’t the kind of man who learns from his mistakes. He likes to double down on the gambles that didn’t work in the past. Is Lompoc ready for another trip to the casino? m
Hot Stuff
EVERY DROP COUNTS
The Vikings of Solvang and Vitalant will co-host a community blood drive at Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall on Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 1 to 6 p.m. Participating donors at the blood drive will receive a $25 voucher that can be redeemed either that evening or the following day at select local restaurants and bakeries in Solvang. For more details, call (805) 266-8768 or visit vikingsofsolvang.org.
—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.
CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: YARN
PUMPKIN GARLAND Create an adorable pumpkin garland using bundles of yarn and some twine. This workshop is free and all materials are provided. Registration is required; for patrons 18 and older. Sept. 23 , 4-5:30 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. 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. onging. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.
LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE: WEST COAST SWING Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45 p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 832-884-8114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt. RAINBOW READS BOOK CLUB Join every month as we read and discuss literature that focuses on LGBTQIA+ authors, characters, and themes. The book for September is The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen by KJ Charles.
See sm.blackgold.org for available titles. Registration is required. Sept. 20 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. SATURDAY CRAFTERNOON: MINI TRINKET TIN Create a customized container to hold all the small things that get lost in your bag. This mini trinket tin will keep your bag organized. All materials will be provided. Registration is required, for ages 18 and older. Sept. 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
BRUSHES AND PIXELS WITH FEATURED ARTIST JAYNE BEHMAN A Journey through artist Jayne Behman’s dual artistic realms. You’re invited to delve into the world of artistic exploration at this solo exhibition of Behman who fearlessly experiments with a myriad of tools, including cutting-edge AI technology. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Sept. 30 805-688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.
A DEEPER LOVE: NEW PAINTINGS INSPIRED BY CORAL REEFS A vivid duo exhibition that highlights a collection of paintings by husband and wife team David Gallup and Nansi Bielanski Gallup. Through Feb. 1, 2025 calnatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.
THE LION HAS TO BE HAPPY: CONTEMPORARY DANISH CERAMICS
A showcase of ceramic artworks by featured artisan Marianne Steenholdt Bork. Through Oct. 27 elverhoj.org.
Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, 805-686-1211.
PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT VEGA VINEYARD AND FARM Visit the picturesque Vega Vineyard and Farm in Buellton. You’ll spend the afternoon sipping delicious wine and capturing the beauty of the surrounding landscape on canvas. Sept. 22 , 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $89. 805-325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Vega Vineyard and Farm, 9496 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton.
SLOPOKE: ART OF THE AMERICAN WEST With 30-35 Juried artists; paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry depicting western culture and history. Featured Artist: Ezra Tucker, renowned wildlife artist. Features memorial exhibit and sale of Fred Oldfield’s western paintings. Friday Eve: Bluegrass Band and Awards Ceremony. Sept. 27, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Sept. 28 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sept. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $25 (refunded against purchase of painting/sculpture). 805-570-8088. the-slopoke.com. Flag is Up Farms, 901 E. Highway 246, Solvang.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
SACRED GEOMETRY WORKSHOP: EXPLORE AND CREATE Sunburst’s Sacred Geometry teacher, Craig Hanson, will guide attendees on an exploration of the Golden Proportion in nature. Enjoy an interactive presentation, followed by guided step-by-step instruction on creating your own pentagon and dodecahedron, a natural 12-faced form found in minerals and life forms. Sept. 21 , 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $75. 805-736-6528. sunburst.org/geometry/. Sunburst Retreat Center, 7200 CA-1, Lompoc.
SUNBURST ART SERIES: NATURAL FABRIC DYING WITH SHIBORI Intro to Shibori — Japanese dyeing technique that involves folding, twisting, or bunching
cloth and binding it, then dyeing it in indigo and other natural botanicals. Explore this moving meditation and create distinctive color patterns on cotton. Sept. 28 , 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $75. 805-736-6528. sunburst.org/art/. Sunburst Retreat Center, 7200 CA-1, Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
SWAN LAKE See the iconic Dance of the Little Swans, count the 32 fouettés performed by the Odile, and immerse yourself in magical Tchaikovsky’s music. The production will feature richly detailed, hand-painted sets and more than 150 radiant costumes that bring fresh representation to this timeless classic. Sept. 26 , 7-10 p.m. $39.50-$91.25. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ wbc-swan-lake/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. IMPROV 101 This may be “the funnest class you ever take.” Improvisation is acting and reacting in the moment. Improv boosts creativity, self-confidence, and communication skills while reducing stress and social anxiety. This course will provide you with the fundamentals in a safe and supportive environment. Sundays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through Oct. 27 $80. 805-556-8495. improvforgood. fun/. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande. WEREWOLF OF ARROYO GRANDE Enjoy
the Melodrama’s Halloween-spirited show. Through Nov. 9 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ADVENTURES IN MIXED MEDIA! WITH SPENCER COLLINS Students will learn about different mediums each week as well as learn about an artist from history. Take one class of the entire 10-week series for a discounted price. Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. through Nov. 7 $25 for one class; 10 classes for $180. 559-250-3081. 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.
ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
THE ARTIST’S WAY: UNBLOCKING CREATIVITY 12 week program (13 meetings) for creatives and anyone who is seeking to “unblock” their creativity, following Julia Cameron’s famous workbook “The Artist’s Way.” Weekly group discussions and check-ins. Opportunities to share creativity and create community. Email for more info. Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m. through Nov. 26 $195. cuesta.edu. Cuesta College Community Programs, Building 4100 Cuesta College Road, San luis obispo, 805-540-8282. CARTOONING WITH KIDS WITH KANE LYNCH Whether you’re new to making comics or draw zillions of pages every week, this fun-filled class will take your ‘tooning to the next level. This program will help build your cartooning skillset with wacky interactive comics adventures and transform the ideas in your head into a finished product. Every other Sunday,
1-2:30 p.m. through Nov. 17 $25 per session. 805-801-6188. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP: LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
HARVEST COLORS: PAINT YOUR AUTUMN BASKET WITH DREW DAVIS Visit site to register in advance for this upcoming fall workshop. Sept. 21 , 1-3 p.m. my805tix.com/. Drew Davis Fine Art, 393 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo. MARIA MOLTENI: CELESTIAL ANTIPHONY Celestial Antiphony creates a cycle of beats on the fingers and illustrates a childhood shortcut for praying the Rosary when beads have gone missing. The artist has returned to the modular, rhythmic orb-based practice of prayer, which transcends boundaries of faith and constructs of time. Through Nov. 11 Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ maria-molteni/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. MODIGLIANI: SCULPTURE 6-SESSION SERIES Beginners welcome. This sculpture class meets twice a week for a total of three weeks. Amedeo Modigliani was an Italian painter and sculptor. Modigliani is a modern style characterized by a surreal elongation of faces, necks, and figures. Book online. Mondays, Fridays, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Sept. 23 $225. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age. Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
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
and non-binary
female
surfers
SCENIC SURROUNDINGS
The 14th annual SLOPOKE Art of the West Exhibition and Sale will run at Flag Is Up Farms in Solvang from Friday, Sept. 27, to Sunday, Sept. 29. The event showcases multiple artists whose works serve “as a testament to the enduring beauty and significance of Western art,” according to press materials. To find out more about the exhibit and its participating artists, visit the-slopoke.com.
—C.W.
ARTS from page 12
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
AUTUMN SKIES This themed exhibit highlights a collection of scenic photographs by seven featured artists. Through Sept. 30 Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.
FIRST ANNUAL RED BARN RUMBLE ART SHOW (LIVE MUSIC, MOTORCYCLE SHOW, AND MORE) Enjoy local art, a variety of classic motorcycles, live music, and more. Sept. 28 , 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Red Barn at Los Osos Community Park, 2180 Palisades Ave., Los Osos.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
78TH ANNUAL LOS ALAMOS OLD DAYS Friday night: Big Buck Contest and Dinner. Saturday: Carshow, vendors, and more. Saturday night: Dinner and dance (music by the Fossils). Sunday: Element Church Service, Parade, vendors, and barbecue contest. Sept. 27 6-10 p.m., Sept. 28 9 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sept. 29, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free to attend. lavmc.org/. Los Alamos Valley Men’s Club, 429 Leslie St., Los Alamos.
CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: EGG CARTON FLOWER WREATHS Upcycle empty egg cartoons and transform them into beautiful flower wreaths that will last forever. All materials will be provided. Registration is required; for patrons 18 and older. Sept. 24 , 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. D-AND-D AT THE LIBRARY Get ready to join an epic adventure with Dungeons and Dragons presented by Central Coast Games. This easy to learn game is the world’s most popular tabletop role playing game, and everyone is welcome regardless of previous experience. Sept. 22 1-4:30 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public
Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30a.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.
SANTA MARIA TOASTMASTERS Develop your public speaking skills at this club meeting. Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. 805-570-0620. Santa Maria Airport Board Room, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY THERAPEUTIC RIDING PROGRAM’S 14TH ANNUAL
COWBOY BAL The Cowboy Ball fundraiser is back for its 14th year and will be held at the beautiful Foxen Canyon Ranch. Proceeds from the event benefit the life-changing programs offered by SYVTRP to 60 weekly students. Sept. 21 5-10 p.m. $150. syvtherapeuticriding.org/events. Foxen Canyon Ranch, 6205 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos, 805-699-6190.
SOLVANG DANISH DAYS Entertainment options include three parades, plus folk dancers and Danish musicians performing in locations scattered around downtown Solvang. Enjoy Danish pastries, Danish-style beer, and more. Sept. 20-22 solvangdanishdays.org. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
VIKINGS OF SOLVANG COMMUNITY
BLOOD DRIVE Participating donors at the blood drive will receive a $25 voucher which can be redeemed either that evening or the following day at some local restaurants and bakeries in Solvang. Sept. 25, 1-6 p.m. 805-266-8768. Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
ASTROLOGY 101 BEGINNER CLASSES
Have you always been curious about astrology and your horoscope but don’t know where to start? Local professional astrologer Lori Waters will be teaching a five-week Astrology 101 course that will lead you through the basics of astrology by covering western astrology’s history and more. Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. through Oct. 18 $20. 805-270-3192. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach, pismobeach.org.
AUTOMOTIVE CLASSIC AT TRILOGY
MONARCH DUNES This invitational automotive show will showcase more than 200 vintage and classic cars, worth more than $20 million, parked in and around the Monarch Club. Spectators can enjoy live music on three stages, food, wine,
beer, and arts and retail vendors. A charity fundraiser with net proceeds benefiting the Nipomo Food Basket Building Fund. Sept. 22 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free to spectators. 805-284-0756. autoclassicattrilogy.com. The Monarch Club at Trilogy Monarch Dunes, 1645 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo. 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.
BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. 970-710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.
COMMUNITY WORKSHOP: ARROYO GRANDE ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION PLAN The last community workshop for the Arroyo Grande Active Transportation Plan. Your feedback will be used by the City to improve Arroyo Grande’s bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. All ages are welcome and light refreshments and Spanish interpretation will be provided. Sept. 26 6-7:30 p.m. arroyo-grandeatp-ktuagis.hub.arcgis.com/#ue. Arroyo Grande Council Chamber, 215 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande, 805-473-5400.
CREATIVE MOVEMENT A dance-filled morning with Charlotte Ritter who has more than 50 years of expertise. Creative Movement is a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to connect through movement and imagination. Sept. 21 11 a.m.-noon Free for event. 805-481-1421. Exploration Discovery Center, 867 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.
DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach. EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its meeting on the third Saturday of each month. For more information, follow on Facebook at Bishop’s Peak EGA or visit the EGA website. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 16 Free. egausa.com. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach, 805-773-4832.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 16
VITAL COUNTDOWN
Blood donors who participate in Vitalant’s upcoming blood drives at Nipomo’s Grocery Outlet (Sept. 20, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), the Atascadero Elks Lodge (Sept. 20, from 1 to 6 p.m.), the Paso Robles Masonic Lodge (Sept. 27, from 2 to 6 p.m.), and other locations through Oct. 5 will be rewarded with a free Halloween-themed T-shirt. The shirts can be redeemed by registering in advance for a blood drive through the Vitalant app. Visit vitalant.org for more info.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 14
LATINO OUTDOORS CENTRAL COAST CELEBRATES LATINO CONSERVATION WEEK Celebrating Latino Conservation Week in partnership with local environmental organizations. Come meet representatives from these organizations to learn more about local conservation efforts during this family-friendly event. Sept. 21 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-748-6404. latinooutdoors.org. Nipomo Regional Park, 255 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo.
LATINO OUTDOORS CENTRAL COAST: BEGINNING BILINGUAL BIRD WALK Join bilingual leaders from Latino Outdoors Central Coast and the Morro Coast Audubon Society for a casual morning walk to learn about birds and the Oso Flaco Lake Natural Area. All ages welcome. Binoculars provided. Register today on Eventbrite. Sept. 21 9-11 a.m. Free. 805-748-6404. latinooutdoors.org. Oso Flaco Lake Natural Area, Oso Flaco Lake Rd., Nipomo.
LITTLE RANGER PROGRAM: LAGOON ADVENTURE Join Interpreter Sarah on a guided walk around the Lagoon to learn about the animals and plants that live in this unique ecosystem. Walk intended for children ages 2-7. RSVP by phone. Sept. 22 10-11 a.m. Free. 805-474-2664. parks. ca.gov. 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.
PISMO BEACH QIGONG Move energy, relieve stress, and expand awareness, strength, and flexibility. All levels welcome. At the end of Addie Street in Pismo Beach. Taught by local acupuncturist Lorne Johnson. Saturdays, 9-10 a.m. through Sept. 28 Sliding scale. Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, Pismo 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. TALENTDREAMS CENTRAL COAST
JAMBOREE Features a live band, food, beer, wine, a wine auction, and a silent auction. Sept. 21 , 5:30 p.m. my805tix. com. Camp Arroyo Grande, 250 Wesley St., Arroyo Grande, 805-249-9517.
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.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
AGING GRACEFULLY WITH PREVENTATIVE CARE “We can’t stop getting older, but we can shift our thinking about it.” Moving from “I can’t do anything about it” to “I have some control over how my mind and body ages.” Series sponsored by Unity Five Cities. Details from chris@peacefulpoint.com. Over Zoom. Wednesdays, 6-7:30 p.m. through Nov. 20 Love offering. 805-489-7359. unity5cities.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
ASTROLOGY BASICS: HOW TO READ YOUR BIRTH CHART This class will teach you how to use astrology for deeper self-understanding through learning how to read your natal chart. Event will go over archetypes, house systems, planetary rulers, how to synthesize all this information, and more. Email for more info. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. through Oct. 10 $150. cuesta.edu. Cuesta College Community Programs, Building 4100 Cuesta College Road, San luis obispo, 805-540-8282. CREEKS TO COAST CLEANUP 2024 Register to participate in one of the SLO County locations for ECOSLO’s annual Creeks to Coast Cleanup. Let’s all work together to keep our waterways and parks clean and protect the beautiful natural environment of SLO County. Sign up for a SLO County location today. Sept. 21 9 a.m.-noon Free. 805-710-8017. ecoslo.org. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.
DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. 646-2805800. margotschaal.com/qigong. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
ELEVATE YOUR BUSINESS EXIT
STRATEGY: A COMPREHENSIVE 50-POINT ACTION PLAN WORKSHOP FOR BUSINESS OWNERS Business owners looking to maximize their company’s value in preparation for sale won’t want to miss this upcoming workshop, led by seasoned business expert Gary Bayus. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your exit strategy—sign up today. Sept. 19 6-8 p.m. $50. 805-773-5447. cuesta.edu/ communityprograms/. Cuesta College, Highway 1, 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. LIFESAVERS GET HALLOWEEN READY BY DONATING BLOOD Blood donors who participate in Vitalant’s upcoming blood drives through Oct. 5 will be rewarded with a free Halloween-themed T-shirt. The shirts can be redeemed by registering in advance for a blood drive through the Vitalant app. Through Oct. 5 Vitalant, 4119 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE Stretch into yourself under the beautiful oaks and fresh air of this idyllic country setting. Suitable for all levels, these classes emphasize the gentler side of yoga and adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for five-class card with no expiration. 805-440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Tiber Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, San Luis Obispo. PROJECT 2025 TOWN HALL NAACP SLO County presents Project 2025 Town Hall: “Unraveling the Dangers”. An informative discussion on education, immigration, racial justice and women’s health. For more information contact naacpslocty@ gmail.com. Sept. 24, 7-8:30 p.m. Free admission. 805-619-5354. naacpslocty. org. Unitarian Universalists Church, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo.
QIGONG ONLINE Register now for QiGong Online with Gary West, of San Luis Coastal Adult School. Great practice for balance, wellness, mindfulness, and vitality. Wednesdays, 9:30-10:35 a.m. through Dec. 12 $115 per semester. 805-549-1222. ae.slcusd.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
A RED/BLUE DISCUSSION WITH SLO BRAVER ANGELS ALLIANCE
“What would it take for you to believe in American elections again? Across the country everyday, people ask this question.” With a major election in two months, take this opportunity talk about it. SLO Braver Angels Alliance is offering a two-hour Zoom to safely do that. Contact host for Zoom link or find the program’s Eventbrite page. Sept. 22 4-6 p.m. Free. 805-470-9009. eventbrite.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. SEA OTTER TRIVIA NIGHT Kick off Sea Otter Awareness Week by showing off your sea otter knowledge. It’s an all sea otter trivia event with the fluffiest questions, sea otter swag, menu specials, and delicious local brews. A portion of the proceeds support the Sea Otter Savvy organization. Sept. 19 6-8 p.m. $5 for each trivia player. seaottersavvy.org. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-2529.
21 The Stockyard, Orcutt
Improv Comedy Show: Musical Improv
TalentDreams Central Coast Jamboree
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Camp Arroyo Grande
SBWN Garden Party Evening Scholarship Benefit
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Sage Ecological
Landscapes, Los Osos
Saturdays from 9AM to 3PM
Located in Old Town Lompoc, at the Downtown Parking Lot on Ocean Ave. and I Street
CALIFORNIA PAID FAMILY LEAVE GRANT
TRICKZONE (PARKOUR AND TUMBLING)
CLINIC Come flip with flair in a safe, nurturing environment at the TrickZone Clinic. Plus, Parkour and Tumbling training are great for safer backyard practice. For ages 5-17; all levels welcome. Sept. 21 , 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; plus $10 per additional sibling. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/saturdayevent-clinics. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY 2024 CALIFORNIA COAST CLASSIC BIKE TOUR AND ARTHRITIS CHALLENGE
EXPERIENCE An eight-day, fully supported 525-mile ride that raises awareness and support for the nearly 60 million Americans living with arthritis. Sept. 21-28 213-634-3772. events.arthritis.org. Highway 1, Various locations, Morro Bay.
SHORT FILM PREMIERE: SEA OTTER
AWARENESS WEEK Celebrate Sea Otter Awareness Week by attending the premiere screening of Every Otter Counts This short film chronicles the incredible initiative of the organization Sea Otter Savvy as they work for coexistence with the SLO Coast’s sea otter neighbors. A Q-and-A follows screening. Sept. 27 3-4 p.m. Free admission to the museum during this event. Morro Bay Museum of Natural History, 20 State Park Rd., Morro Bay, 805-772-2694.
SOCRATES: DISCUSSION GROUP Group members present interesting and thought provoking topics of all sorts. Topics are selected in advance and moderated by volunteers. Vaccinations are necessary. Enter through wooden gate to garden area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. 805-528-7111. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.
FOOD & DRINK
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
BEER YOGA Hosted by Get Zen with Jenn. Sept. 21 10 a.m.-1 p.m. my805tix.com/. Naughty Oak Brewing Co., 165 S Broadway St. suite 102, Orcutt, 805-287-9663.
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.
OKTOBERFEST PUB RUN Join the Orcutt Run Club and Naughty Oak for a two-mile run (or walk) with beer stops along the way. Sept. 24 5:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Naughty Oak Brewing Co., 165 S Broadway St. suite 102, Orcutt, 805-287-9663.
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.
DOWN BY THE BAY
Gallery at Marina Square in Morro Bay presents its latest group photography show, Autumn Skies, through Monday, Sept. 30. This themed exhibit highlights a collection of photographs by seven featured artists, including Karen Peterson (whose photo, Misty Sunset, is pictured). Visit galleryatmarinasquare.com to find out more.
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. Varies. 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
GREEK BARBECUE FUNDRAISER AT ROCK AND ROLL DINER Join us for a special Greek barbecue fundraiser, benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of South SLO County. Indulge in Greek barbecue, enjoy live music from the Wavebreakers, and 50 percent of your meal is going to support local youth programs. Sept. 21, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 805481-7339. bgcslo.org/ events. Rock and Roll Diner, 1300 Railroad St., Oceano.
SWINGIN’ BY THE SEA The Chapman Estate Foundation is hosting their ninth annual Swingin’ By the Sea fundraiser. With 12 local wineries and nine restaurants serving as well as live music and silent and live auctions. Sept. 21 , 1:30-5 p.m. $150. 805-234-7087. chapmanestatefoundation.org/. Chapman Estate, Private residence, Shell Beach.
VICTORY GARDEN WORKSHOPS Come learn the basics of how to grow your own food with SLO County UC Master Gardeners; how to start your garden quickly and easily in a container, in the backyard, or in a community garden.
Scholarships available. Sept. 22 and Sept. 29 $55 series; $82 couple; $15 class; $45, $75, $10 for OCSD residents. 805-781-5939. Oceano Train Depot, 1650 Front St., Oceano.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
POPCORN AND PINOT DATE NIGHT
Enjoy a screening of Under the Tuscan Sun Sept. 20 7-9 p.m. my805tix.com/. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., San Luis Obispo, 805-595-7302.
QUEER TRIVIA Sip some cider, test your LGBTQ trivia knowledge, and learn new fun facts. Topic themes and hosts rotate each week. Prizes for winners. BYO food. Third Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. 805-292-1500. Two Broads Ciderworks, 3427 Roberto Ct., suite 130, San Luis Obispo, twobroadscider.com.
SUNSET WINE/RAIL EXCURSION: SANTA BARBARA These fully-hosted, docent-led excursions will depart from the SLO Railroad Museum at 11 a.m. taking a motor coach to the Santa Barbara Wine Collective. Sept. 21 my805tix.com. San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, 1940 Santa Barbara Ave., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-1894.
MUSIC
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, 805-937-8110. LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.
LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR Enjoy live music most Fridays at the venue. Call venue or check website to find out who’s performing. Fridays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.
MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing 805-925-0464. coelhomusic. com/Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.
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.
PRESQU’ILE LIVE: J & THE CAUSEWAYS Check out New Orleans-based band, J & The Causeways at the Presqu’ile Winery Amphitheatre. This juggernaut soul/R&B ensemble is filled with heavy backbeats and soaring horn sections that encompass the essence of their Louisiana home. Sept. 21 6-9:30 p.m. $25. 805-9378110. presquilewine.com/events/live-atpresquile-j-the-causeways/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria.
MUSIC continued page 20
—C.W.
PUNK ROCK CHAOS Central Coast Music Productions presents Punk Rock Chaos, including Hostile Takedown, Up Your Guts, the Contradik$, Plot, and Throw Away at the Chido Bar in Santa Maria. For ages 21 and over, with valid ID. Sept. 28 5 p.m.-midnight $15 at the door. instagram.com/hostiletakedown. Chido Bar, 221 N. Broadway, Santa Maria, 805-631-5007. SANTA MARIA PHILHARMONIC: TONAL TAPESTRIES
SEASON CONCERT Join the Santa Maria Philharmonic Orchestra and Maestro Michael Nowak for the 2024-25 seasonopening concert featuring imaginative orchestral music. Sept. 28 7:30-9:30 p.m. $50. 805-925-0412. santamariaphilharmonic. org. Grace Baptist Church, 605 E. McCoy Ln., 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. THREE TRIBUTES AT BLAST 825 Tributes to: Deftones, Avenged Sevenfold, and Tool with KimDracula, Forever Sevenfold, and 2L respectively. Sept. 21 4 p.m. my805tix.com/. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, 805-686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
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
BABES AGAINST THE MACHINE An all-female tribute to Rage Against the Machine. Sept. 27 7 p.m. my805tix.com/. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714.
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.
DECADES IN, BARE KING Presented by GS3events. Enjoy a handful of metal acts. Sept. 22 , 6:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Fuego in Grover Beach, 1187 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, (805) 710-6477. KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY Enjoy some good food and karaoke. Fridays, 5-8 p.m. 805-723-5550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo.
VIOLIN CONCERT: MISCHA LEFKOWITZ A special violin concert, featuring Mischa Lefkowitz, virtuoso violinist, accompanied by pianist Susan Davies. Sept. 19 6:30 p.m. my805tix.com. The Monarch Club at Trilogy Monarch Dunes, 1645 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ANNUAL CUESTA ACOUSTIC GUITAR CONCERT FEATURING LAURENCE JUBER Guitarist Laurence Juber returns to the CPAC for the annual Cuesta College Acoustic Guitar Concert. Juber is one of the premiere guitarists in the world, having been lead guitarist for McCartney’s Wings. Also performing is Dorian Michael and Jennifer Martin. Sept. 21 7:30-9 p.m. $15-$10. 805546-3198. tickets.cuesta.edu. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that is easy to listen to but also surprises. Sept. 20, 5:30-8:30 p.m. eastoneverett.com. Wolff Vineyards, 6238 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo, 805-781-0448.
FAMILY FUN FRIDAYS: A FAMILY DANCE CLASS Enjoy a whirlwind of rhythm and laughter. Join for 45 minutes of the hottest line dances for all ages, followed by open dance time. Make memories on the dance floor together. Sept. 20, 5:30-7 p.m. $10 for kids 4 and older. 805-904-7428. nexusslo.com. Nexus SLO, 3845 S Higuera St.( Lower Level), San Luis Obispo. JAMAAL BAPTISTE MEETS THE ALL-STAR JAZZ PROFESSORS Presented by the SLO County Jazz Federation. Sept. 22 4-6 p.m. my805tix.com/. Mount Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks St., San Luis Obispo.
JOSH ROSENBLUM This artist writes all of his words and music, taking inspiration from past experiences, the hypothetical, day-to-day struggles, and just good old-fashioned storytelling. Sept. 20 7 p.m. my805tix.com. CongregationHouse, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo.
LIBERTINE AND VINYLISTICS PRESENT: INTROVERTED FUNK Visit site for more info on this upcoming funk event at the Libertine in downtown SLO. Sept. 20 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-2337.
MC MAGIC LIVE AT THE FREMONT THEATER MC Magic performing live at the Fremont Theater. Sept. 21 , 8 p.m. $30$150. fremontslo.com. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600.
ARTS BRIEFS
Santa Ynez Valley and Cambria gear up for annual community scarecrow displays
Local businesses and groups in two Central Coast regions will be displaying unique scarecrow creations outside storefronts and other locations throughout the month of October.
Both the Santa Ynez Valley Scarecrow Fest and the Cambria Scarecrow Festival will kick off on Tuesday, Oct. 1. The two events invite their respective participants to create their own unique straw-stuffed figures. Special awards will await the scarecrows that earn the most votes during polls held in conjunction with both fests.
According to the Santa Ynez Valley Scarecrow Fest’s website, residents and tourists of six townships—Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, and Solvang— will have the chance to vote for their favorite scarecrows of the valley-wide competition.
While named after Cambria, the annual Cambria Scarecrow Festival features scarecrow displays in both Cambria and San Simeon. According to press materials, about 200 scarecrows line the streets of both areas each year—specifically Cambria’s east and west villages, Moonstone Beach Drive, and San Simeon’s business district.
For more info on the two festivals, as well as each event’s scarecrow design guidelines and registration details, visit syvscarecrows.com or cambriascarecrows.com, respectively.
Nipomo Library welcomes experienced comedians and newbies to monthly improv group
On the second Saturday of each month, a local improv group invites the public to take part in a free improv class at the Nipomo Library. Described as a collective “that channels the power of comedy for charitable purposes,” Improv for Good will hold its next library meetup on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 2 to 4 p.m.
According to the nonprofit’s website, Improv for Good often performs at fundraisers and for community members “who could use a little extra cheer, including seniors, disadvantaged children, and caregivers,” and is dedicated to organizing affordable and accessible community classes centered on improv.
The organization began in early 2024 with a core philosophy: “laughter boosts the immune system and provides an overall feeling of well-being.
The group’s library program includes short-form improv games and other activities geared toward both newcomers and experienced comedians looking to stretch their skills. Admission to join each workshop is free.
To find out more about Improv for Good and its monthly meetups, as well as the group’s additional classes and programs, call (805) 556-8495 or visit improvforgood.fun. The Nipomo Library is located at 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo. m
Arts Briefs are compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
Against the current
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Held outside the steps of Los Angeles City Hall, a rally in 2022 reunited two former members of a disbanded rock act and set the wheels in motion for a new project to revive their partnership.
“We ended up at a protest together after Roe v. Wade was overturned,” said guitarist Khadejhia Kassenbrock, who stood in solidarity with singer Carrie Rapaport and countless others at the gathering.
There was live music at the protest, including a cover of Rage Against the Machine’s “Killing in the Name.” The iconic metal group’s songs have resonated with both Rapaport and Kassenbrock for years, but hearing that one in particular against the backdrop of a pro-choice rally struck a chord with the duo.
“Shortly after, Carrie messaged me [saying], ‘I think I’m putting together an allfemale Rage Against the Machine tribute. Would you want to be my Morello?’” Kassenbrock recalled. “I said, ‘Absolutely.’ Tom Morello has always been one of my favorite guitarists, and that sounded like a really cool idea.”
The pair later recruited bassist Caroline Juhasz and drummer Marisa Testa to rage with them. The quartet became Babes Against the Machine and plays multiple gigs a year in various cities. Some of the tribute’s upcoming shows include local stints in both Lompoc and Morro Bay, on Sept. 27 and 28, respectively.
The group picks songs that span all four of Rage Against the Machine’s studio albums, from familiar favorites to deep cuts, while dishing out “winks and nods that only real hard-core Rage fans might get,” Rapaport said.
The cover they consistently play at their shows is the song that brought them together, of course.
“It’s undeniable. The effect [“Killing in the Name”] has on people,” Rapaport said. “The fact that you can tell that song means so much to [fans] and takes them back to wherever it was when they either first heard it, or something about their lives where that song just really resonated, really clicked in, and they lose themselves in that moment. ... The passion is just tangible. It just goes through the crowd.”
Another essential anthem most attendees of a Babes Against the Machine performance can expect to hear is “Freedom,” Kassenbrock said.
“It’s just a very meaningful song for both of us, for all of us, I’d say. We always have to include that in the set list,” the guitarist said. “I feel like we really get a collective kind of rage going between the audience and us, and just being so frustrated with the way that this country is run.”
Rapaport agreed with Kassenbrock that there’s something palpable in the air at the tribute band’s concerts that correlates with current events and attests to how universal and timeless Rage Against the Machine’s music remains.
“The fact that it’s an election year is getting a lot of people riled up, regardless of which party you vote for,” Rapaport said. “There are a lot of people that are frustrated and ... looking for something to be released, and music has always been for both Khadejhia and I a huge catharsis, a way for us to channel energy.” m
Channel your thoughts with Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
Welcome to the machine
Hard rock tribute band Babes Against the Machine will perform at the Flower City Ballroom in Lompoc on Friday, Sept. 27, at 7 p.m., and the Siren in Morro Bay on Saturday, Sept. 28, at 8:30 p.m. Tickets to the Flower City Ballroom performance are available in advance at my805tix.com. Visit thesirenmorrobay. com for more details on the Siren show. The Flower City Ballroom is located at 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. The Siren is located at 900 Main St., Morro Bay. For more info on Babes Against the Machine, visit babesagainstthemachinetribute.com.
FILE PHOTO BY CAMILLIA LANHAM
COURTESY PHOTO BY VIVIAN
GUITAR HERO: Khadejhia Kassenbrock is the guitarist behind Babes Against the Machine, an all-female Rage Against the Machine tribute band.
RAGE SAGE: Carrie Rapaport fronts Babes Against the Machine, a hard rock tribute band with upcoming gigs at Lompoc’s Flower City Ballroom and Morro Bay’s the Siren in late September.
COURTESY PHOTO BY VIVIAN ORTEGA, SO FINCH PHOTOGRAPHY
COURTESY PHOTO BY EDSON OCHOA, LUCKYSHOT PHOTOS
PERCUSSION
PRO: Marisa Testa is on drum duty as one of Babes Against the Machine’s four members.
COURTESY PHOTO BY VIVIAN ORTEGA, SO FINCH PHOTOGRAPHY
ALL ABOUT THAT BASS: Babes Against the Machine’s bassist is musician Caroline Juhasz.
David Hinton (The Making of a Legend: Gone with the Wind) directs this documentary on the films of Emeric Pressburger and Michael Powell, with rare archival material from the personal collections of Powell, Pressburger, and Martin Scorsese, who speaks in depth about these two cinematic giants and their films. (131 min.)
Glen: Movie lovers, this is a must-see. Scorsese explains how Powell and Pressburger’s films were inspirational to his own career. I just eat this stuff up. I recently read Quentin Tarantino’s 2022 book Cinema Speculations, in which he breaks down his formative film-watching years and the movies that inspired his style. Such a great read. This documentary offers similar insights into Scorsese’s career and examines some amazing films, most of which I haven’t seen. I know The Red Shoes, but now The Tales of Hoffman, Black Narcissus, and The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp are on my watch list. The films are theatrical and larger than life, and these two filmmakers were groundbreaking.
Anna: This film gets into the nitty-gritty of filmmaking, but it’s meant not just for movie lovers but lovers of movie history, style, and those who totally nerd out on finding connections between directors and creators of the past and our greats now. There were a lot of films in here that I was unfamiliar with, but having Scorsese walk us through them and draw
REBEL RIDGE
What’s it rated? TV-MA
When? 2024
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Writer-director Jeremy Saulnier (Blue Ruin, Green Room) helms this good old-fashioned vigilante film about ex-Marine Terry Richmond (Aaron Pierre) who runs into trouble when he heads to the small town of Shelby Springs to bail out his cousin, Mike (C.J. LeBlanc), who’s arraigned on drug charges and if transferred to state prison will be in danger for informing on a gangster.
As he bicycles into down, Terry’s bike is rammed and he’s detained by dirty cops Evan Marston (David Denman) and Steve Lann (Emory Cohen), who seize his $36,000 in cash under the guise of civil forfeiture, arguing without evidence that the money is the result of illegal activity. When he goes to the police station to report the money stolen, he discovers Chief Sandy Burnne (Don Johnson) is as corrupt as the officers beneath him. The only sympathetic person he encounters is courthouse employee Summer McBride (AnnaSophia Robb). Terry, a close-quarters combat expert, squares off against the police force to expose their corruption, save Summer from retaliation, and generally kick the asses on a bunch of redneck assholes—think First Blood The Equalizer or Jack
attention to specific styling, details, and insights is fascinating. This film has a specific audience in mind, but movie buffs and particularly those who love old movies will likely find this film intoxicating. Scorsese is a wonderful guide, and his depth of knowledge can’t be challenged. I loved hearing him talk about how these films influenced his own, drawing literal connections between scenes. I know I used the word fascinating once already, but it truly is.
Glen: Now that the SLO International Film Festival has taken over the Palm Theatre, this film and their screening of The Red Shoes this week (see below) is the kind of innovative programing we can expect to see in the future. The Palm also screened Black Narcissus last week. Scorsese met Powell in 1974 and found a director virtually blackballed from the film industry, and their friendship is explored in the documentary. We learn, for instance, that Scorsese was instrumental in generating renewed interest in Powell’s 1960 horror film Peeping Tom, which in turn spurred interest in Powell and Pressburger’s oeuvre. It’s a terrific story.
Anna: Scorsese is a wealth of knowledge on all things film, and seeing and hearing the inside scoop is great. It’s a treat to watch films through the eyes of those who know them best, and it makes one appreciate the real art and technical detail that goes into filmmaking. Not only did this film give me a list of old movies to seek out,
but it renewed my vigor for film in general. See this and The Red Shoes for a real dose of film culture.
Glen: As Scorsese said, “Certain films you simply run all the time, and you live with them. As you grow older, they grow deeper. I’m not sure how it happens, but it does. For me, that body of
THE RED SHOES
What’s it rated? Not rated When? Saturday through Sunday, Sept. 21-22, at 4 p.m.; Monday, Sept. 22, at 7 p.m.
Where’s it showing? The Palm Theatre of San Luis Obispo Hans Christian Anderson knew how to spin a cautionary yarn, and this movie of the same name is no different. Is art worth dying for? Vicky Page (Moira Shearer) is a talented young ballerina when she meets Boris Lermontov (Anton Walbrook). After attending a performance of Hearts on Fire by Lermontov’s ballet company, he invites her to a rehearsal. Also at that rehearsal is Julian Craster, a music student who wrote the score to Hearts on Fire and has recently been hired by Lermontov. Recognizing her talent in rehearsal, Lermontov hires Vicky to star in his new touring ballet The Red Shoes What comes is a film chock-full of gorgeous dancers and dancing. Even a slight lover of ballet will be thrilled.
work is a wondrous presence, a constant source of energy, and a reminder of what life and art are all about.” m
Reacher. Well-acted all around with terrific direction and effective action sequences. Don’t miss it! (131 min.)
—Glen
The story, however, darkens. As Julian and Vicky grow together as they work and secretly begin a romance, Lermontov’s jealousy and desire for Vicky grows overwhelming, and he soon puts his power to work to get Vicky. What will Vicky choose—life with her true love or the chance to dance her way into career greatness?
New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
OLD-SCHOOL: Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger, and their crew appear in this archival photo, one of many archival elements displayed in the documentary Made in England: The Films of Powell and Pressburger, screening at the Palm Theatre of San Luis Obispo.
The story carries the right amount of tragedy and torture alongside its beautiful dance pieces. Old-movie fans, this is a winner! (135 min.) m
—Anna
PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX
CORRUPTION JUNCTION: Chief Sandy Burnne (Don Johnson, left) uses the power of civil forfeiture to steal cash from former Marine Terry Richmond (Aaron Pierre), who’s in town to bail out his cousin, in Rebel Ridge, streaming on Netflix.
POSSESSED SHOES: Moira Shearer stars as Victoria Page, a dancer torn between her desire to become a prima ballerina and the man she loves, in the 1948 Academy Awardwinning classic, The Red Shoes, screening at The Palm Theatre.
Two seasoned competitors face off at Solvang’s 2024 aebleskiver eating challenge
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Of all the different food eating contests Raina Huang can think of, there’s one kind the professional competitor has consistently shied away from.
“I won’t do pancakes,” Huang said in an email interview.
The famed foodie—whose fan base includes about 850,000 YouTube subscribers and 609,000 Instagram followers—has plans to take part in a unique dessert eating challenge during
Best of the fest
Solvang’s Danish Days festivities.
Despite her stance on pancakes, Huang doesn’t mind aebleskiver—best described as puffy pancake balls—as she’s competed in the Danish Days aebleskiver eating contest a handful of times in the past. Set to return for the contest’s 2024 edition, Huang has some stiff competition to look forward to this year.
Contest newcomer and prolific vlogger Naader Reda’s 116,000 YouTube subscribers and 51,000
For more info on Solvang’s Danish Days happenings, including the aebleskiver eating contest, visit solvangdanishdays.org. This year’s festival runs from Friday, Sept. 20, to Sunday, Sept. 22, with various events in downtown Solvang.
The aebleskiver eating contest will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21, and Sunday, Sept. 22, at 11:30 a.m. both days in the Midgaard Pavilion, adjacent to the Danish Days Viking Beer and Wine Garden. Open to all ages and free to enter, the two-day competition will award first place to the two contestants each day (one adult winner and one kid winner).
Instagram followers have witnessed a lot of his food exploits over the years, but not a single outing ever involved aebleskiver.
“This will honestly be my first experience eating or handling an aebleskiver. I’m really looking forward to it,” Reda told the Sun over email. “This will also be my first time visiting Solvang. My family and I have driven through before, but unfortunately that was right after the lockdowns ended and there wasn’t much open at the time. The stores looked pretty.”
Like Huang, Reda is game for any kind of food challenge minus one major exception.
“I generally enter any eating contest if it fits into my schedule. … I am willing to try just about any food for a contest. But I had a terrible experience trying to break the record for eating the hottest
pepper in the world, the Carolina Reaper,” Reda recalled. “The next day was so miserable. I would not subject myself to that again. Even a Guinness World Record isn’t worth that.”
never tried the Danish
to competing in her first Danish
Just as this year’s contest will mark Reda’s first aebleskiver foray, Huang had
delicacy prior
Days
COURTESY PHOTO BY THERESA GINGRAS
SACRED SWEETS: Often served with powdered sugar, syrup, jam, or all of the above, the aebleskiver is a big part of Solvang’s annual Danish Days festivities, as the annual festival’s attractions include an aebleskiver eating contest and spots to purchase and devour the Danish dessert.
PHOTO COURTESY OF RAINA HUANG
SPEED FEED: Social media star Raina Huang is a career competitive eater who’s no stranger to devouring large quantities of food within short timeframes.
eating contest in 2018.
“I had no idea what [aebleskiver] was, but it was fun to experience another culture,” said Huang, who also took part in the 2019 and 2023 Danish Days festivities.
“I love the event,” she said. “It’s a great vibe.”
Huang’s advice to anyone aspiring to enter eating competitions is “just pace yourself,” while Reda’s is to have fun—“that’s the most important thing”—and to “take care of your health along the way.”
Entrants of the Danish Days aebleskiver eating contest, held in downtown Solvang’s Midgaard Pavilion, will have five minutes to consume as many pancake balls as they can handle. The two-day competition is free to enter and open to all ages.
The contest is one of many family-friendly festivities hosted in conjunction with Danish Days—and not the only of these happenings centered on aebleskiver.
On Saturday, Sept. 21, and Sunday, Sept. 22, there’ll be aebleskiver and Danish sausage breakfasts available for purchase on the corner of Copenhagen Drive and First Street from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. both days.
A longtime high school history teacher, Reda is looking forward to exploring Solvang for the first time, especially during
the town’s summer festival.
“My family and I love to see culturally and historically interesting places, … and I think it’s amazing that a cultural festival features such a unique eating contest. This is like getting the best of both worlds from my point of view,” said Reda, whose family has a checklist of sights to cross off during their Danish Days stay.
“We want to see the parade,” Reda said about the festival tradition. “We also hope to eat at a smorgasbord—another first for us—and try some of the Danish bakeries, talk to the locals, and maybe go axe throwing.” m
Sprinkle some powdered sugar onto Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood’s inbox with comments to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.
