The Substance: Gory but good [20]
Santa Maria’s future
The City Council approves a development agreement to build on three sites downtown [6]
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
Santa Maria’s long-term vision for its revamped downtown is getting ready to start construction next year. The City Council recently approved an agreement with The Vernon Group that lines out development on three of four lots that will change the face of the intersection at Broadway and Main. With the aim of bringing more housing units, commercial, and retail opportunities to the area and creating more walkable communal spaces, the city is selling some of its lots, cheap, and waiving certain development fees. While some are ready for the change, others are worried about unintended consequences. Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor speaks with the city officials and residents about the issue [6]
This week, you can also read about the cities asking residents to approve transient occupancy tax increases [4]; The Great American Melodrama’s latest production [18]; and homestyle Filipino food from Capuno’s Lutong Bahay [21]
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Rooftop Patio at Toyota of Santa Maria 1643 South Bradley, Santa Maria
Children in Foster Care
• Bipartisan legislation to reduce wildfire risk, written by U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara), was unanimously approved by the House Natural Resources Committee, according to a Sept. 19 statement from Carbajal’s office. The Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act would reduce procedural steps for removing hazardous vegetation near power lines—cutting red tape to allow for a more streamlined process when tackling wildfire risk, according to the congressman’s office. The vote came at a time when firefighters are battling more than 500,000 wildfires in national forests and California communities. The legislation would allow the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management to approve removing hazardous trees near power lines on federal land— including national forests like Los Padres National Forest—without requiring a timber sale, easing a serious threat that has in the past been a major cause of destructive wildfires. Currently, utility companies are required to keep trees and branches away from power lines on federal land. But fallen or dead trees cannot be cleared without a timber sale. “As hundreds of brave firefighters, first responders, and forest rangers work around the clock to respond to the massive wildfires burning across California, I’m working in Washington to approve the federal policy changes that can help us prevent these increasingly destructive fires,” Carbajal said in the statement. “Our bipartisan bill is a no-brainer for the Western states that have seen the rising risk of fires year after year, and I’m proud to see it approved by the committee less than a year since it was first introduced. While no one change in policy will eliminate wildfire risk entirely, cutting red tape by removing the unnecessary administrative need for a timber sale will undoubtedly help protect the communities I represent.”
• The U.S. Senate recently passed bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut), and Chris Murphy (D-Connecticut) that would require the Department of Justice to add a new category to the existing National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) database, according to a Sept. 19 statement from Padilla’s office. This change would allow the public and law enforcement to mark cases where a person went missing or was identified on federal land, including specific location details. According to a NamUs report, more than 600,000 people go missing in the United States annually. While the majority of these cases are resolved, tens of thousands of people remain missing every year. There are approximately 640 million acres of federal land which include national parks, national forests, and Bureau of Land Management lands. Estimates suggest that at least 1,600 people have gone missing on public lands, though the number is likely much higher, as isolated or rugged terrain on public lands can make it especially difficult to find or identify people who go missing. Despite this, there is no functional system to report people who have gone missing on public lands, according to Padilla’s office. Having accurate data on how many people go missing on public lands every year is crucial to aid search and rescue efforts and resolve cases, according to the statement. This new feature would enable family and friends of people missing on public lands to more easily enter information in NamUs, while law enforcement agencies work to improve national records of missing individuals. The Tracking and Reporting Absent Community-Members Everywhere (TRACE) Act would also require the DOJ to submit an annual report to Congress detailing the number of cases from the previous year involving individuals who went missing or were suspected of going missing on public lands. “Thousands of people go missing on public lands in the United States every year, but without an effective system to track them, law enforcement’s ability to help bring them home is that much more limited,” Padilla said in the statement. “That’s why I’m glad to see the Senate unanimously pass our bipartisan TRACE Act to provide more accurate and readily accessible data, help equip law enforcement to resolve more cases, and help bring peace of mind to affected families.” m
ACROSS THE BOARD: Voters in Solvang, Buellton, and unincorporated Santa Barbara County will all see a ballot measure that would raise bed taxes in hotels like the Skyview Motel from 12 percent to 14 percent this general election.
Buellton and Solvang ask voters to approve bed tax increases
Tourism brings in nearly half of Solvang’s general fund revenue, but those dollars aren’t stretching as far as they once were, City Manager Randy Murphy told the Sun.
“Ultimately, inflation impacts on everything post-COVID is crazy. We renewed our contract with the sheriff’s department, and that cost went up 30 percent. We are paying about $3 million a year for our law enforcement contract,” Murphy said. “We were looking at the horizon, and we realized we didn’t have enough money.”
Solvang’s general fund budget this year sits at about $10.9 million. To boost city revenue, the City Council voted to place a 2 percent transient occupancy tax (TOT) on the ballot in November—increasing the rate from 12 percent to 14 percent.
In June, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors approved putting a similar rate hike on the ballot for hotels in the unincorporated parts of the county (a 2 percent hike to 14 percent). TOT increases need support from 50 percent of voters plus one to pass.
TOT is charged to visitors who pay the rate when staying at hotels, motels, or short-term rental properties for 30 days or less. Solvang’s current TOT brings in about $5 million to its city services, and the city last increased its TOT to the current 12 percent in 2015, Murphy said.
“The things we’re focused on are providing more money for road repair improvements, recreation programs for seniors and kids,” Murphy said, adding that the increased revenue could also help the city keep up with the tourism impacts on the city.
“Solvang’s population is just over 6,000, but the latest numbers related to the number of visitors we get is about a million and a half per year,” Murphy said. “We are a small town with big city populations any given weekend—30,000 visitors on average per week.”
Local hoteliers approached the city with concerns over the city having higher rates than neighboring Buellton, Murphy said, so the city manager approached his Buellton counterpart, Scott Wolfe, with Solvang’s plans, and Wolfe took it to the City Council.
“They came forward and asked us to consider it, and the City Council felt it was worth at least looking into,” Buellton City Manager Wolfe said.
to help tackle Santa Barbara County’s child care shortage.
“For every 10 infants born in our county, we only have one licensed space for them,” Jacquilyn Banta, chief operating officer of Children’s Resource and Referral of Santa Barbara County, said at the meeting. “Wings Infant Center will help address that deficit.”
The project site is an existing two-story building, which Children’s Resource and Referral of Santa Barbara County currently uses as its Santa Maria office space. The nonprofit recently applied for a conditional use permit to transform the office’s first floor into a new child care center, designed to accommodate a maximum of 20 infants and toddlers, between the ages of 0 and 2.
Proposed improvements at the site will include a new outdoor playground with fencing, a new bifold panel glass door, and additional modifications.
While commenting on day care projects’ below par track record in the area, Planning Commissioner Esau Blanco described the Wings proposal as serving “a critical, vital need for our community,” and a way to entice new parents from out of town to consider raising their kids in Santa Maria.
Wolfe said he then spoke with Shelby Sim, the president and CEO of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley—an organization of hospitality entities— about supporting the project. While Sim said organization members didn’t necessarily want the TOT increase, he didn’t want to see uneven rates between Solvang and Buellton.
“Whereas, we cannot support this increase to our visitors, especially during an off year, we do feel it should be an even playing field across the valley as far as TOT goes,” Sim told the Sun. “So it makes sense to have Solvang, Buellton, and the county on the ballot simultaneously.”
Buellton’s proposed 2 percent increase would also take TOT to 14 percent, which funnels into the city’s general fund. This fiscal year, Buellton has $11 million in total revenues, with $4.2 million from TOT. Buellton voters last approved a TOT increase in 2012 from 10 percent to 12 percent.
“If the TOT increase passes, we would be looking at nearly $5 million—roughly $665,000 increase to TOT. It would be about 43 percent,” Wolfe said. “The benefits to the city are essentially just an increase in general fund revenue. Right now, the city is not in bad shape from that perspective, but we have incurred a large number of expenses—some anticipated, some not.”
The new library and improved park amenities along with safety improvements to Highway 246 are needed for the city, but the cost has caused “some pause to these improvements,” he said.
“What we’re trying to convey to the public here is that TOT is one of the types of tax measures that tend to be a little less controversial than most because the residents here aren’t the ones on the hook for it. The folks paying it are the ones visiting town,” Wolfe said.
“As tourism grows here in our city, the impact or percentage of its impact on our infrastructure system grows and we need to keep up on that.”
—Taylor O’Connor
Santa Maria deems new infant care a ‘vital need’ amid countywide shortage
Poised to neighbor the Santa Maria Airport, a proposed child care center recently managed to stick the landing with city officials.
During the Santa Maria Planning Commission’s Sept. 18 meeting, city staff vouched for the upcoming Wings Infant Center, described in the staff report as a development
“We’re trying to attract more young professional families to the community, and this is one important service that they’ll need. … I fully support it,” Blanco said. “We’ve had some projects in the past come forward, and get approved, and then don’t happen. … Hopefully this does move forward.”
Planning Commissioner Robert Dickerson needed clarity on one potential issue before endorsing the proposal.
“Have any noise studies been done?” Dickerson asked staff, while referring to the building’s close proximity to the Santa Maria Airport.
“The younger the child, the more susceptible they are to things as they are growing up that affect them later on in life,” Dickerson said. “I was just curious whether or not having an airport or airstrip right next door or relatively so is an issue at all. … As far as decibel levels and whatnot, … are they relatively low within our norms?” City staff confirmed that the project site sits outside any thresholds where noise contour restrictions would apply, based on the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments’ Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan. Dickerson’s only other issue was that he wished the project had more square footage to raise its maximum capacity.
“Twenty children. It’s going to be [fully booked] before it’s even built,” Dickerson said. “I look forward to seeing it. … It’s a tremendous need.”
With a 4-0 vote, the Planning Commission approved the permit. Planning Commissioner Yasameen Mohajer recused herself from voting due to a potential conflict of interest.
—Caleb Wiseblood
Lompoc City Council tables electric rate increase
Concerns about how proposed utility rate increases would impact small businesses and/ or residents with low- or fixed-incomes halted the Lompoc City Council’s vote on making the needed changes.
“For me, personally, I know we have to do this, but I’m just having some struggle. I wish there was more nuance. I know it’s just a few dollars here and there, but I’m playing it fast forward to five years out,” 4th District Councilmember Jeremy Ball said. “There are people living paycheck to paycheck, and there are businesses struggling every day. I don’t think we’ve talked enough about the impacts and subtle differences on some of those things.”
Second District Councilmember Victor Vega wanted to see the City Council delay its
discussion to allow for more members of the public to provide input.
“I wish more people were here from the public or would call in because it affects them,” Vega said. “Without the public’s input to find out what the hardships are out there, it would be a little bit premature.”
In April 2023, the Lompoc City Council approved an emergency 30 percent utility fee increase because city staff identified that the incoming revenue did not meet the increased power supply costs. The last time the City Council approved a rate increase was 2011— more than a decade ago, Management Services Director Christie Donnelly told the City Council during its Sept. 17 meeting.
“In that time between 2010 and 2023, there had been a 38 percent [Consumer Price Index] increase, so inflation had grown 38 percent in that amount of time,” Donnelly said.
To ensure that extreme rate spikes don’t happen again, city consultant Utility Financial Solutions proposed that residents see increases—stretching from 3.5 percent to 2.1 percent over five years—in their monthly rate fees and add a fixed monthly customer facility charge to their bill.
The fixed monthly charge would be $11 in 2025, $16 in 2026, $21 in 2027, $26 in 2028, and $31 in 2029, according to the staff report
The increases could up customers’ average electricity costs from about $70 per month to about $100 per month in each year.
“The energy rate is pretty steady, just a slight adjustment because most of the increase is run through that fixed monthly customer charge,” said Mark Beauchamp, president of Utility Financial Solutions.
Adding a fixed facility charge helps ensure that residents face less of a burden from nonusers, including about 500 identified customers with zero usage, he said.
“I talked about where I live, Michigan— during the winter, 20 percent of our population leaves and goes to Florida or Southern California. If we don’t pay that fixed charge, then all the other ratepayers who endure the Michigan winters have to subsidize me. You have 500 homes that don’t use anything,” Beauchamp said. “So by not having that fixed charge, you are giving them a benefit. They can certainly afford it.”
But Ball’s concerns lie with low-income families who might not be able to afford the fee jumps.
“I’m here to tell you the good and the bad. When it comes to social-type policies, that’s where I need to tell you the positives and negatives, I can’t tell you that you need to do this because of social policies,” Beauchamp responded. “That’s a choice you need to make.”
First District Councilmember Gilda Aiello pushed against Ball’s and Vega’s hesitancy and was frustrated with the lack of alternative ideas.
“I completely understand everyone’s reservation, I guess that’s why when I get my packet, I do my best to fully understand the decision that I am tasked with making for my community even if they don’t show up,” Aiello said. “It isn’t an easy decision to make, but it is our job to do it, work through it, and figure it out.”
Act now! Send any news or story tips to news@santamariasun.com.
The City Council ultimately directed staff to come back with a $10 customer facilities charge, with $5 increases per year as an alternative to see how that would change projected revenues. m
—Taylor O’Connor
News
Dreams and dread
Santa Maria officials and residents share hopes, fears after City Council approves new agreement with The Vernon Group for downtown development
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
Maya Restaurant has seen every iteration of Santa Maria in its nearly 60 years of business. From its vibrant, charming early years to the vacant lots, Santa Maria has been home to the Paredes family.
“The times are changing, and it’s time we keep up with those times to keep our home thriving,” said Tere Paredes, Maya Restaurant’s thirdgeneration owner.
The city’s about to step into an iteration that’s been promised for years. Santa Maria City Council recently voted 4-1, with 1st District Councilmember Carlos Escobedo dissenting, to approve a disposition and sales agreement with The Vernon Group to purchase and redevelop four city-owned parcels in the Main and Broadway corridor.
“We are delighted with the vote, as it was a significant step toward realizing a vision that began 20 years ago,” Vernon Group Partner David Alpert told the Sun via email. “Buildout of the Downtown Specific Plan area will help transform an underutilized urban core into a vibrant city center that will bolster existing businesses, improve property values, and focus demand in an area with existing infrastructure.”
The Santa Barbara-based developer envisioned a future with paseos, open spaces, vibrant shops, increased city revenue, and bustling pedestrian activity with the help of about 600 housing units built alongside commercial and retail development.
The Vernon Group is set to begin construction on one of its lots as soon as 2025, with remaining lots completed closer to 2029. By 2030, The Vernon Group is projecting cumulative tax revenue and city fees upward of $3 million, and the city will fully recover the $2.3 million in development fee reductions in less than two years.
Maya Restaurant owner Paredes initially worried about parking impacts, but she’s now fully on board with the proposal.
“I know for a fact that it will definitely benefit my restaurant,” she said. “When you have tenants at every corner around you, that’s going to bring in more business. I feel very good about this particular plan and project.”
Others aren’t so sure. With the city selling the lots at $120,000 per parcel and providing a nearly 50 percent discount on mitigation fees made possible through the state’s Surplus Lands Act, Councilmember Escobedo worries about the missed revenue opportunities and whether the project will generate the revenue promised.
“We didn’t talk about the actual costs that this will generate for Santa Maria. The developments don’t pay for itself,” Escobedo said. “We are basically giving away, for a really good discount, prime land in the city of Santa Maria that’s downtown.”
Santa Maria firefighters worry about the projected 1,000-person population increase downtown and the accompanying increased calls for services while the Fire Department faces staffing shortages and a citywide budget deficit.
“What my plea to council was: Not only should you be investing in these projects wherever they may be, but please invest in your services, which includes your employees,” Santa Maria Firefighters Union President Matthew Chircop told the Sun
Assistant City Manager Chuen Wu said that The Vernon Group will pay about $8.5 million in impact fees—one-time dollars that cover the costs for city services, including about $112,000 for police and $154,000 for fire.
“The agreement was approved with the condition that they pay all of the mitigation fees for police and fire,” Wu said. “The sales tax revenue and property tax revenue we’d receive from the developments pay for ongoing public safety costs, and there is no subsidy for that.”
Impact fees fund future facilities like a fire station or ladder truck, but not staffing costs, Chircop said. Over the past year, the firefighters union has been advocating for wage increases to help with recruitment and retention as development negotiations were ongoing.
“This development is injecting a lot of money into downtown. It’s injecting a lot of houses, a very dense population in the downtown,” Chircop said “I made it clear three times publicly that the firefighters are not opposed to this project, we just need to be included in the investment in the community.”
Wu said that The Vernon Group still needs to come back to the Planning Commission and City Council to receive final approval for several of the lots, and the developer has to meet project descriptions, performance measures, and a timing schedule that line up with the overall goals and objectives for downtown.
“I think the way to think about it is it’s a saved redevelopment project. Even though it’s one agreement, not all of the lots will be transferred over at the same time,” Wu said. “It’s one by one, but it’s captured by one agreement. The land doesn’t transfer over to Vernon until they are ready to construct.”
Lot 1 is the parking lot adjacent to the former Fallas/Meryvn’s building on Broadway that will be redeveloped into 375 units of residential condos that will be available for purchase to promote home ownership, Vernon Group Partner Brad Vernon told the City Council during the Sept. 17 meeting. That lot will also have a 150-unit hotel.
Lot 2, the northeast corner of Main and Broadway near Pearlman Park, would provide 160 units of affordable housing, meeting requirements set by the state Surplus Lands Act for private development on city-owned land. The Vernon Group intends for the site to have a gym, employment education center, and low-income services for the community, he said.
Lot 3 will hold a six-story building with a plaza and memorial dedicated to Santa Maria firefighters and Alvin Newton—a firefighter who died during the Bradley Hotel Fire more than 50 years ago—who the apartments will be named for. The City Council already unanimously approved that project, and it will likely be the first project completed.
Lot 4 is a future option that will be discussed after the other projects progress.
Escobedo doesn’t believe that the city will see full cost recovery within The Vernon Group’s projected timeline. He said that no one provided estimates to how much it would cost the city’s general fund and Measure U dollars to add the estimated 1,000 residents that would come through these developments.
“They talked about how people will spend money in Santa Maria—in downtown—but that means people will need services; they are going to need firefighters; there’s going to be more phone calls for services, parks, schools; they’re going to be driving around town so roads will need more attention,” he said. “You need to add all of the costs to the equation, and that was not done.”
Santa Maria can’t afford to be handing out incentives, Escobedo said, and taxpayers shouldn’t be funding private projects, especially during a budget deficit.
“That deficit is part of the reason we are here. … For so many years Santa Maria was giving these incentives,” he said. “This deficit is a consequence to the incentives Santa Maria has been giving for so many years.”
Third District City Councilmember Gloria Soto sees this agreement as cost saving and revenue generating for the city.
“I completely disagree with that notion of, ‘We are in this financial deficit. Let’s not enter into this partnership.’ Let’s flip and say, ‘Do you have $200 million or any investors ready if we said no to Vernon?’” Soto said. “There has been time, money, resources … that have been invested in this project. We could have said no to Vernon, but that downtown corridor would have looked and stayed the same for the next 10 to 20 years.”
When she first joined the City Council, Soto said she recalled people “coalescing” for more housing, retail, and places to go. She said she thinks this is the city’s chance to answer those calls.
“It would have been shortsighted of the council not to approve the project,” she said.
The Vernon Group is investing nearly $200 million into this project—money the city doesn’t have to invest in its corridor, she said. What the city does have is unused land.
“We are not in the business of building housing; we are not in the business of developing commercial properties,” Soto said. “We are a city that’s here to provide services to the residents of Santa Maria and enhance their quality of life.” m
Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@santamariasun.com.
GET INFORMED FOR ELECTION DAY NOVEMBER 5TH!
Lompoc Unified SchooL TrUSTee
September 26
City Hall Chambers,100 Civic Center Plaza, Lompoc, 6:30PM
Lompoc ciTy coUnciL & mayor
October 3
City Hall Chambers, 100 Civic Center Plaza, Lompoc, 6:30PM
SanTa maria ciTy mayor
October 4
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 402 S. Lincoln St, Santa Maria, 5:30-7:00PM
SanTa maria BoniTa SchooL diSTricT TrUSTeeS
October 7
Santa Barbara County Supervisors Hearing Room, 511 Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria, 5:30-6:30PM
SanTa maria JoinT Union high SchooL TrUSTeeS
October 7
Santa Barbara County Supervisors Hearing Room, 511 Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria, 6:45-8:00PM
SoLvang mayor
October 23
Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak St. Solvang, 6:00-7:00PM
RENDERING TO REALITY: The Santa Maria City Council’s 4-1 vote, with 1st District Councilmember Carlos Escobedo dissenting, to approve the sales and disposition agreement with The Vernon Group brings the city one step closer to fulfilling its decade-old downtown revitalization plan.
Sports and beyond
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
As someone who never considered herself a sporty person growing up, Annis Barajas wanted to offer Guadalupe residents more than sports when she joined the Recreation Department six months ago.
“Guadalupe has [always] been super strong when it comes to sports,” said Barajas, the recreation services manager. “I wanted to have options for people who might not be very sporty.”
In her time so far in the position, she’s expanded the Recreation Department’s reach, offering line dancing, painting, a skate deck design class, a fashion show, poetry jams, hikes, movie nights, a glow in the dark dance party, and hopefully pickleball within this month.
“It’s been pretty successful. Based on what I’ve been told from the last Recreation Department manager, since I was here, our numbers have tripled for events,” Barajas said. “We’re still doing sports and a lot of things we were doing before; we’re just expanding it to have more diverse activities.”
Recreational youth soccer is still going strong with fall classes running from Oct. 2 to 23.
Drop-in volleyball begins Oct. 2 and runs every Wednesday of the month, and drop-in basketball starts on Oct. 4 and runs every Friday.
Locals can also boogie at the roller skating party on Sept. 28; tap into creativity at a pumpkin paint party on Oct. 5; take a hike through the Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve on Oct. 12; or grab popcorn for a Halloween movie night on Oct. 25.
Every Guadalupe event is free for the community and provides any equipment needed for participation, she said.
“I want to continue to ramp that up and have our set events that almost take care of themselves. We always have movie night or a skate day, that will always happen, and as I add new things, see what the response is, maybe that becomes another event,” Barajas said.
Line dancing was one of the first additions she made to the department’s schedule. Guadalupe
hosted two classes in August, and again in September with people asking about the next line dancing night.
“It’s just really exciting to see people interested in what’s being provided,” Barajas said.
The department’s threeperson team is tiny but mighty, she said, and the budget may be small, too, but it hasn’t slowed them down from adding more activities.
“There was a decision to add an extra $10,000 to our budget. That’s very nice; that has helped with some of the bigger events, but I’m really big on using the resources available,” she said. “We do have restrictions when it comes to budgets, but I feel like that shouldn’t have to hold us back.”
She has “no shame” in asking for donations or asking people to volunteer or to use community resources. As a former Santa Maria Rodeo executive and wedding planner, she likes the challenge of creating events that suit Guadalupe.
“It’s been an opportunity to learn what the community wants, how they want to receive information, and how they interact. … I’ve really enjoyed it and I hope to continue growing the Recreation Department,” she said. “We are up and coming; we have been working hard as a city to provide more services and experiences in Guadalupe.”
Visit cityofguadalupe.org/recreationdepartment-events for more information.
Highlights
• The League of Women Voters of North Santa Barbara County and the Santa Maria Valley Chamber are hosting a candidate forum for the Santa Maria mayor’s race on Oct. 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 402 Lincoln St. Residents have the opportunity to meet the candidates running for election and learn more about their positions and priorities. After a brief networking period, the moderated program will begin with a set of predetermined questions, have an intermission, and close out with the candidates answering questions from the public. Audience members may not bring signs or wear supporting material in the forum room or speak out or applaud before the forum concludes. RSVP for the free event at business.santamaria.com.
• All sections of Surf, Wall, and Minuteman beaches on Vandenberg Space Force Base officially opened on Sept 19. Seasonal restrictions are enforced annually on all three Vandenberg beaches from March 1 through Sept. 30 to protect the nesting habitat of the Western snowy plover, a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. To lift restrictions before Sept. 30, Vandenberg biologists documented that the last Western snowy plover chicks on Space Force beaches have left the nest and are able to care for themselves without assistance from their parents. Once numbered in the thousands, fewer than 2,400 breeding Western snowy plovers remain on the Pacific Coast, and Vandenberg beaches are one of the few suitable breeding habitats remaining in the state.
MORE FUN: Since joining the Guadalupe Recreation Department six months ago, Recreation Services Director Annis Barajas has expanded the offered programs and events, including a color run in July.
Would you run for mayor?
57% No way. Nothing could entice me to be a candidate.
29% Maybe, but only if it wasn’t so expensive to run.
14% Yes! No one’s ever asked me before!
0% I don’t even vote for mayors.
Game day
Totalitarianism, fascism, and authoritarianism are not games
BY SCOTT PICKFORD
7 Votes
Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.
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Idon my team’s colors and make sure things are tucked in right.
It’s game day.
Off to meet with my fellow participants to strategize where to be to watch the game. We all compare our newest gear and are energized by the prospect of the past and future meetups of our team.
We all share how we can get other fans involved in our team’s efforts.
Our team had a dramatic midgame quarterback change. Frightening at first, but the change seemed to have galvanized the players along with the fans, and momentum shifted.
The fanaticism of the other team’s fans is well known. Frightening to us of a demurer, more peaceful team.
Some of the opposing team members were known for their violent streaks, and some were even jailed for their vicious reaction during games.
Name-calling, taunting, and divisiveness were a norm from the other team’s fans.
Lies about our team’s players were spread through social media in hopes of fermenting loss of belief in our team’s ability to carry the day.
Cheating on the field was another way they tried to break down our team and our resolve about the rules of the game. If the call was made against them, calls for unfair rulings were filed to sow doubt.
The press box was blamed for inaccurate reporting. Demands for better media coverage were issued to try and sway the undecided.
Fact-checking was discouraged. Why bother when everything about the other team was always “correct”?
Fans who had changed sides during the off-season
were castigated and made fun of during the season. Some were roughed-up because of their disloyalty.
And then the first kick was made, and the game began.
Team loyalty, love of the game, getting dressed up, and believing in a central theme or team are hallmarks of human belief. It does not seem to matter if its American football, international football (soccer to us Americans), rugby, cricket, wrestling, hockey, etc.
Passion, intensity, and fervor are just human traits. It is humanity looking for something larger than the individual to believe and participate in. The intensity of fan-love for their team transcends human societal bounds.
And so, to my point.
Politics is not a team sport, not a game to be won or lost.
Politics is not four hours of bone-crushing intensity and then “calm.”
At the end of a sports game, we all lick our proverbial wounds and spend the following week talking about the past game and hopes for the new weekend’s play.
Politics goes on, and the ramifications are for decades.
And you did not get your fair share. I get it. You want what is “due you.”
This is what it is all about, right? The “libs” give away all types of stuff to “them” and you did not get your share?
So going back to the sports analogy, the “immaculate reception” did take place and it was real. The Minnesota Vikings did win in overtime against the Indianapolis Colts on Dec. 17, 2022. The Buffalo Bills did beat the Houston Oilers in overtime in the 1993 playoff game. Belgium beat Japan in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, coming back from a huge margin (yes, I know, soccer). Michigan State beat Northwestern in a huge upset in 2006. These were not fake news, even though the other teams’ fans were upset. There were no “alternative facts” to explain the change in fortunes of the teams. We all just had another beer and carried on until next weekend or next season.
Playing politics—where the outcome is a loss of rights—is not a game. Taking away the rights of women is not a game. ... Threatening retribution for negative press coverage is not a game.
The “winner” gets to pick judges that lie during confirmation and then ignore precedence and remove a woman’s right to her own body.
The “winner” gets to change how our society operates and change fundamental rights to free speech, free press, and the right to assembly.
The “winner” gets to decide which religion takes precedence in our laws.
Our fundamental rights to race, religion, free speech, and tolerance are on the altar or chopping block.
Speak up! Send us your views and opinion to letters@santamariasun.com.
And to my point, again. I truly get it. Something was allegedly given to someone else because of the color of their skin, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or social standing.
Some won, some lost— it is the nature of sports games. They were games Playing politics— where the outcome is a loss of rights—is not a game. Taking away the rights of women is not a game. Having a corrupt justice that sits on the highest court of our land taking graft is not a game. Threatening retribution for negative press coverage is not a game. Taking $10 million in cash from a foreign dictator and then having your attorney general kill the investigation is not a game.
Totalitarianism, fascism, and authoritarianism are not games
I dream of a time when we can sit and talk, discuss policies over a drink, and not want to drop the gloves on the ice and duke it out. I want a return to civility where we can disagree and not be called childish names like we are back in third grade.
I want to talk and understand your position, I really do. I want to learn to communicate and collaborate without hate being shoved down my throat.
We live in one of the most beautiful places in the United States, the world. The people here are overall friendly, good natured, and honest—can we please, somehow, share our good fortune? m
Scott Pickford writes to the Sun from San Luis Obispo. Send a response for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.
The Sun’s North County coverage is appreciated
Thanks to the Santa Maria Sun for its continuing coverage of events germane to Lompoc. Your Sept. 19 issue alone has three pieces of import, not to mention the cover. Your reporting that encompasses the entire North Santa Barbara County is much appreciated. Keep it coming!
Barry Marks
Living Landscape
Who’s got the dough? Opinion
Maintaining
So why would a city willingly agree to reduce the fees it charges housing developers to pay for all of that stuff? Because housing is more important than city fees at this point, and the projected property tax revenue is expected to more than make up the difference.
So would it?
According to Santa Maria 1st District Councilmember Carlos Escobedo, the city doesn’t actually know—it just has to take The Vernon Group’s word for it.
“We didn’t talk about the actual costs that this will generate for Santa Maria. The developments don’t pay for itself,” Escobedo said. “We are basically giving away, for a really good discount, prime land in the city of Santa Maria that’s downtown.”
The city is selling Vernon vacant city-owned lots of land at $120,000 per parcel around the mall, and is giving the developer a break on about $2.3 million in fees, as of Sept. 17, in a 4-1 City Council vote with Escobedo dissenting. Vernon is still on the hook for about $8.5 million in developer impact fees and is planning to build more than 600 units of housing, a 150-unit hotel, commercial and retail space, improve walkability, and transform what’s arguably a drab downtown into a more vibrant one.
The prime land that Escobedo is so worried about selling at a discount has been vacant and
unused for years, some of it containing empty buildings and parking lots. The city has been trying to figure out a way to reinvigorate the eyesores on Broadway and Main for years.
Which would you rather have?
I know and so did 3rd District City Councilmember Gloria Soto
“We could have said no to Vernon, but that downtown corridor would have looked and stayed the same for the next 10 to 20 years,” she said. “It would have been shortsighted of the council not to approve the project.”
No shit. Vernon is going to flash around a cool $200 million on four projects aimed at bringing more revenue into the city and, most importantly, more housing. What about public safety services, the firefighters’ union—which has been fighting for a pay raise over the last several months—asked the council.
“The agreement was approved with the condition that they pay all of the mitigation fees for police and fire,” Assistant City Manager Chuen Wu said. “There is no subsidy for that.”
But, Union President Matthew Chircop said, that money isn’t for salaries, it’s for infrastructure. I guess firefighters were hoping that the city could get The Vernon Group to pony up the dough for those raises. That’d be a first, amirite?
“I made it clear three times that the firefighters are not opposed to this project, we just need to be included in the investment in the community,” he said.
Well, I’d like to be included too! That’s way more residents who will be reading this column, who I’ll be responsible for tweeting about—so maybe it’s time to get out of this birdcage. Think I can get a loft downtown? m
The Canary’s always thinking about money. Send some to canary@santamariasun.com.
Hot Stuff
ARTS
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE
CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. 805-928-7799. Kleindancesarts.com. KleinDance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.
DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.
FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17
Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE:
WEST COAST SWING Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45 p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 832-8848114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.
MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
Santa Maria will join communities across the globe to screen the finalists in the 27th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival. Audience members will enjoy 10 outstanding international short films and then vote for their favorite film and actor. The worldwide audience determines the
ultimate victor. Oct. 3 6-8:30 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. THREE PHOTOGRAPHERS: THREE VISIONS Presented by the Santa Maria Camera Club. With works by Jeanne Sparks, Chuck Uebele, Jim McKinniss. Seating is limited. RSVP at santamariacameraclub@ gmail.com. Oct. 2 , 6:30-8:30 p.m. Merrill Gardens, 1220 Suey Road, Santa Maria.
TWO ORIGINAL ONE-ACT PLAYS OCT presents Flower Power and In the Mood: Part Two, two tales of unexpected love. Sept. 27-29 my805tix.com/. Orcutt Community Theater (Klein Dance Arts), 3546 Skyway Drive, Bldg. 1, suite A, Orcutt.
VALLEY ART GALLERY: ROTATING
DISPLAYS Featured artists of Santa Maria’s Valley Art Gallery frequently display their works at the airport. Check website for details on monthly exhibits and full list of the gallery’s artists. ongoing valleygallery.org. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, 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 exhibition of Behman who experiments with a myriad of tools, including cuttingedge 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.
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.
WOODLANDS II AT GALLERY LOS OLIVOS
Deborah Breedon, Kris Buck, and Chuck Klein are the featured artists for the month of October at Gallery Los Olivos. Titled Woodlands II, this exhibit is a blend of pastels including landscapes, abstracts, florals, and fine woodworking. MondaysSundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 31 805688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.
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. 805-4899444. clarkcenter.org/shows/wbc-swanlake/. 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.
FASHIONS FOR A PURPOSE Upon arrival, you will be seated along the runway, with a complimentary glass of Opolo Sparkling Wine, during this fundraiser that showcases high-end fashions and swagger. Oct. 5, 9:30 a.m. my805tix.com/. DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo, 805-929-5679.
GARY GULMAN: MISFIT STAND UP TOUR Boston native Gary Gulman’s diverse background includes being a college football scholarship athlete, an accountant, and a high school teacher. Today, Gulman is a leading touring comic, selling out venues like Carnegie Hall in New York City. His Misfit: Stand Up Tour showcases new material. Oct. 3 , 7:3010:30 p.m. $45.50-$59.50. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/gary-gulman/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
(NIPOMO) Film lovers will unite in over 500 venues worldwide to view and judge the work of the next generation of filmmakers from around the world. The final selections screen simultaneously around the world during a one-week period. Sept. 28 , 1-3:30 p.m. Free. 805929-3994. slolibrary.org. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.
HISSING IN ACTION
The Neal Taylor Nature Center at Cachuma Lake will host its Creepy Creatures on the Lawn program on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees can look forward to close-up encounters with snakes, spiders, bats, and scorpions during the free event. Donations are appreciated. There is a $10 fee for parking. Visit clnaturecenter.org for more info.
—Caleb
SECOND ANNUAL PING PONG BALL DROP Stop by the Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival for this Grand Event. 2,000 ping pong balls will be dropped from the sky. The closest ball to prize marker wins that prize. Only $5 to enter. All funds raised support local South County Youth. Sept. 28 12-1 p.m. $5. 805-481-7339. bgcslo.org/ balldrop.html. Heritage Square Park, 201 Nelson St., Arroyo Grande.
WELCOME TO ART SCHOOL: TWO-DAY WORKSHOP WITH VANESSA ROTHE Tap into your creativity during this beginners workshop in an artist’s studio at Willow Pond SLO in Edna Valley. Also enjoy a daily lunch on the patio, prepared by a local chef. For more details and to register, visit website. Sept. 28 , 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sept. 29 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 805-5506399. willowpondslo.com/. Willow Pond SLO, 1250 Judith Lane, 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
”WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG?”
ART SHOW Just in time for possibly the most crucial Presidential election of our lifetime, the Bunker will present a group art exhibit, “What Could Possibly Go Wrong?” curated by political artist Robbie Conal. Oct. 4 5-8 p.m. 805-203-6301. thebunkerslo.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
A-TOWN ART HOP: DIA DE LOS MUERTOS (CALL TO ARTISTS) Interested in participating in the next A-Town Art Hop? Register online. The art walk will be held on Nov. 1. Through Oct. 13 Free. 831291-8329. atownarthop.org. Online, See website, 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.
ART AFTER DARK: CENTURY 21 HOMETOWN REALTY Century 21 Hometown Realty is pleased to host amazing local artists, rotating their art work each month for the ‘Art After Dark’ calendar year. Reception of food and wine. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. through Nov. 1 Century 21 Hometown Realty, 1103 Toro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-235-4877. 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.
BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Fourth Thursday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. 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. CENTRAL COAST WRITERS’ CONFERENCE The premier event for creatives of all types. This is your time to connect with your other creatives, learn new skills, and get inspired to take your craft to the next level. Oct. 5, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $299. 805-546-3132. cuesta.edu/ communityprograms/writers-conference/. Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
Wiseblood
BLAST 825 STOCKYARD • 241 S BROADWAY, OLD ORCUTT
COMIC MAKING FOR TEENS WITH KANE LYNCH All skill levels are welcome in this collaborative class that will take students through the process of producing a finished comic story. Learn about plot structure, thumbnailing, penciling, inking, as well as the subtler skills to make your comic work shine. Wednesdays, 4-5:30 p.m. through Oct. 30 $25 per session; $175 for all 8 sessions. 805-8016188. artcentralslo.com.
Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CRAFTING MAGICAL
REALMS: FANTASY AUTHOR PANEL Meet New York Times
bestselling author Kalyn Josephson, bestselling fantasy author Jenna Elizabeth Johnson, and middle-grade series fantasy author Debbie Noble Black. Learn more about their books and get an insider’s view of their processes in crafting magical realms. Hosted by Central Coast Writers’ Conference. Sept. 28 2-4 p.m. Free. 805-781-5991. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
CUESTA DRAMA PRESENTS
A MIDSEMESTER NIGHT’S
MASHUP (A WORLD
PREMIERE) An exciting, limited run of A Midsemester Night’s Mashup a world premiere written and directed by Ben Abbott, produced by awardwinning and internationally recognized Cuesta Drama. Limited seats available. Oct. 3 , 7:30 p.m., Oct. 4 7:30 p.m., Oct. 5 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 6 2 p.m.
$15. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
MARIA MOLTENI: CELESTIAL
ZIP AND SIP
This year’s Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley includes various festivities for wine enthusiasts and thrill seekers alike, such as a special zip-line tour event at Highline Adventures in Buellton on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9 to 11 a.m. To find out more about the annual wine country celebration, check out the full event list at visitsyv.com.
—C.W.
Vermicomposting Workshop
Learn how composting with worms helps divert food waste and enriches soil. Build your own finished worm bin during this interactive workshop. All materials will be supplied.
• Learn about starting a worm bin
• What to feed them
• Where to keep them
• Uses of vermicompost
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. PUBLIC DRAWING DAY WITH ART DIRECTOR CYNTHIA HALLEY Join Entertainment Visual Development Artist, Art Director, and SLO native Cynthia Halley for a beautiful day out of drawing and camaraderie. Halley is excited to connect fellow artists and students. Free, uninstructed, and all levels welcome. Just bring your favorite sketchbook or palette and enjoy. Sept. 29, 1-5 p.m. Free. DrawingLA.com. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. SLO FILM CENTER GRAND OPENING
photography. Oct. 1-29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
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
CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT
SOCIETY: GARDENING WITH NATIVE PLANTS
The SLO Chapter of the California Native Plant Society will be hosting a presentation in both English and Spanish, discussing California native plants that are best suited to Santa Maria and neighboring areas. There will also be a Q-and-A portion at the end. Oct. 5 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 7 p.m. Free. 805934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria. FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. 805937-9750. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/ firstfridayoldtownorcutt/. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt. FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing 805343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.
Saturday, October 12, 2024
Two Sessions: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
ELWIN MUSSELL SENIOR CENTER, 510 E. PARK AVE., SANTA MARIA Open to Santa Maria residents only. Registration open until October 1. For more information and to register, visit www.cityofsantamaria.org/ register or scan the QR code at right. Ages 5+ Fun for the whole family!
CELEBRATION A special celebration of this beloved hometown theater and the new SLO Film Center project with food, drinks, cinema-centric fun and frightful activities along with live music from local horror fans, Ghost\Monster Duo. Oct. 2 5-7:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm 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.
FINE ART PAINTINGS BY ATUL PANDE
Gallery at Marina Square presents Atul Pande featuring his acrylic paintings, both representational and non-representational. A marvelous exhibition of his talents as a painter. Oct. 1-29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FINE ART PAINTINGS BY CAROL ROULLARD Showcases both her abstract acrylic paintings and her micro-crystalline
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.
ANCESTRY BASICS Uncover your family history at this free workshop for adults interested in learning the basics of genealogy. Bring the names of your ancestors and library staff will guide you through research using the Library Edition of ancestry.com. Registration is required. For patrons 18 and older. Sept. 27 4-5 p.m. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/ services/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, 805-937-9750.
BUNCO NIGHT Enjoy this fast-paced, easy-to-learn game. Free to play, with prizes for winners. All ages welcome. Register to reserve your spot. Oct. 3 7 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. Naughty Oak Brewing Co., 165 S Broadway St. suite 102, Orcutt, 805-287-9663.
TABLETOP GAMING WITH SANTA MARIA ADVENTURER’S LEAGUE Be prepared for epic excitement with tabletop gaming presented by the Santa Maria Adventurer’s League. Everyone is welcome regardless of previous experience. All children under the ages of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited and registration is required. Oct. 6 1-4:30 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. TIBETAN BUDDHIST MONKS: CREATING A MANDALA Hancock College is honored to host the Tibetan Monks on campus daily from Sept. 30 through Oct. 4, creating a sand mandala over the week time, culminating in a closing ceremony on Oct. 4. All are welcome to drop in during the week to visit. Sept. 30 - Oct. 4 Free. 805694-8894. hancockcollege.edu/gallery/ index.php. Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.
VALLEY READS BOOK CLUB The Valley Reads is a monthly book club for adults featuring coffee, snacks, and lively discussion. The book selection for September is The House in the Pines by Ana Reyes. Sept. 28 2-3 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. SANTA YNEZ VALLEY CREEPY CREATURES ON THE LAWN Attendees can look forward to close-up encounters with snakes, spiders, bats, and scorpions. Oct. 5, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Donations accepted; $10 to park. clnaturecenter.org. Neal Taylor Nature Center, 2265 Hwy 154, Cachuma Lake, 805-693-0691. THE LOVES OF THE BEATLES: TALK BY DENNIS MITCHELL Breakfast With The Beatles radio host Dennis Mitchell will explore the romances of the members of the biggest band ever, from their early days in Liverpool and Hamburg to the present day.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 14
Hot Stuff
THREE’S COMPANY
The Three Speckled Hens Vintage Market and Antique Show will take place on Friday, Oct. 4, and Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Paso Robles Event Center. This annual celebration will feature more than 75 vendors that sell a variety of antiques, including vintage and repurposed items. Tickets are available in advance at my805tix.com.
—C.W.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 12
A presentation of interesting discoveries including rare audio and unreleased music and soundbites. Oct. 6, 5-7 p.m. Free. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang. UNPACKING TOXIC POSITIVITY This talk will introduce you to positive psychology concepts and practices that will help you find a balance between joining in the lows and heightening the highs, between “holding space” for hard times and identifying strengths, and between toxic positivity and real happiness. Sept. 29 5-7 p.m. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
AUTUMN HARVEST GARDEN TOUR
October 2024 Central Coast Cooking Show
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 Idlers Home, Paso Robles
Cancerslug and Plot
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11 Dark Nectar Coffee, Atascadero
FRI-SUN, OCTOBER 11-27
Bay Maritime Festival WED-SUN, OCTOBER 9-13 Multiple Venues in Morro Bay
Zongo Yachting Cup 2024 FRI & SAT, OCTOBER 11 & 12 Morro Bay Yacht Club, Point San Luis Lighthouse
The Haunted Manor: Presented by The Benedict FRI-WED, OCTOBER 11-30 The Benedict, Morro Bay
Oceano
Empty Bowls 2024 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10
St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Arroyo Grande
By The Sea Productions Presents: The Outsider FRI-SUN, OCTOBER 11-27 545 Shasta Ave, Morro Bay
Butterfly Ball: Crystal and Chrysalis!
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12
Octagon Barn, SLO
Come experience the seasonal changes happening in the center’s bountiful vegetable garden. Meet new friends over a garden-fresh meal in Sunburst’s pine lodge. Go home with tips for planning your own regenerative cool weather garden, seedlings, freshly harvested vegetables, and more. Registration is required to attend Oct. 5 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $35. 805-7366528. sunburst.org/garden/. 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.
THE VILLAGE TREASURE CHEST This event is for the whole family. There will be vendors selling their wears, music, facepainting, and some kind of food booth. Come out and spend part of your Saturday supporting local vendors. First Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Vandenberg Village Community Services District Office, 3745 Constellation Road, Lompoc, 805-291-6370.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
ARROYO GRANDE HARVEST FESTIVAL
An annual tradition since 1937. Features a parade, vendor market, live music, contests, face painting, and much more. Sept. 27 and Sept. 28 my805tix.com/. Historic Village of Arroyo Grande, Branch and Short St., Arroyo Grande.
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 NATIVE GARDEN
MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY
Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks including pathways maintenance, litter patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, irrigation system expansion/repairs, pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, and tools related to the above activities.
First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Free. 805-710-3073. Nipomo Native Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo.
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.
I CARE INTERNATIONAL BENEFIT I Care’s goal is to help others improve their quality of life by providing the gift of better vision and health. This benefit will raise funds to help cover expenses associated with the group’s 2025 clinic to Guatemala. Sept. 28 5:30-9 p.m. $75. 805-674-1140. Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, avilabayclub.com.
MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL Film
lovers will unite in more than 500 venues worldwide to view and judge the work of the next generation of filmmakers from around the world. The final selections screen simultaneously around the world during a one-week period. Oct. 2 , 2-4:30 p.m. Free. 805-773-2263. slolibrary.org. Shell Beach Library, 230 Leeward Ave, Shell Beach.
MODEL RAIL DAYS AT THE OCEANO DEPOT Marvel at the amazing and detailed operating model railroads and displays of all sizes. Fun for the whole family. Free. Oct. 4-6 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. slomra.org. Oceano Train Depot, 1650 Front St., Oceano, 805-489-5446.
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. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
NEW MOON YOGA, MEDITATION, AND SOUND BATH An evening of celestial connection and soulful movement, guided by the quiet energy of the new moon. A time to set intentions, reflect, and align your mind, body, and spirit with nature’s cycles. All yoga levels are welcome and encouraged. Oct. 2 7:30 p.m. my805tix.com.
Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach.
RACE DAY Features a go-kart racer and their go-kart. With a meet-the-racer and a show-and-tell. Kids will have the chance to sit in a go-kart and learn all about racing. Don’t miss out on this high speed adventure. Sept. 28, 10-11 a.m. Free for event. 805-473-1421. Exploration Discovery Center, 867 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.
BEAUTIFUL MINDS AWARENESS WALK
Join NAMI SLO County to raise awareness about mental health and local resources in support of Suicide Awareness Month. Booths, speakers, raffle prizes, and more. T-shirts for the first 100 registrants and possibly beyond (while supplies last). Sept. 28 , 9 a.m.-noon $15. namislo.org. Laguna Middle School, 11050 Los Osos Valley Rd., San Luis Obispo, 805-596-4055. CELEBRATE 100 YEARS WITH THE MONDAY CLUB DURING DOORS OPEN
CALIFORNIA
This year marks a very special Doors Open California, as we recognize the Centennial Anniversary of The Monday Club. Join for this annual tour highlighting some of the most remarkable architecture throughout California, including The Monday Club. Sept. 28 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sept. 29 11 a.m.-4 p.m. themondayclubslo.org. The Monday Club, 1815 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-541-0594.
CONSCIOUS-FEST A vibrant gathering showcasing San Luis Obispo County’s finest healing arts professionals and their holistic, mindful, and spiritual offerings. Discover a diverse array of healing modalities, services, and products designed to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Sept. 28 11 a.m. Free community classes. my805tix.com/. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo. ECE VOICES LUNCHEON This event is open to child care providers to discuss your programs and network. “We’ll provide lunch, and you will provide the stories.” These events help the group advocate for providers and their programs. Sept. 28 3-4:30 p.m. Free. 916-443-5919. everychildca.org/events/ece-voicesregion8-meeting. Milestone Tavern, 972 Foothill Blvd., San Luis Obispo.
FULL NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE
Features a great selection of furniture, household items, clothing, toys, tools, jewelry and much more. Multiple locations on San Luis Drive and neighboring streets. Sept. 28 , 8 a.m.-noon 805-539-9374. San Luis Drive Neighborhood, San Luis Drive, San Luis Obispo.
GEMS BY THE SEA The show will feature dealers selling a fantastic array of gems, minerals, fossils, carvings, jewelry, beads, jade, crystals, meteorites, lapidary, and metaphysical items. There will demonstrations of jewelry-making and lapidary crafts. Features free parking. Sept. 28-29 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $5 (free for children under 12). slogem.org/gems-bythe-sea/. Veteran’s Memorial Building, 801 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. GREEN BUILDING TOUR (CC BIONEERS CONFERENCE) Get an inside look at all-electric green buildings that are energy efficient and powered completely or in part with renewable energy, reducing their carbon footprints. The tour will cover one commercial building and three residential projects in San Luis Obispo. Oct. 3 , 2-4:30 p.m. $35. 805-548-0597. ecologistics.org. People’s Self-Help Housing, 1060 Kendall Road, San Luis Obispo.
HISTORY PODCAST: DOOR KEY’S 2024 SPOOKTACULAR To celebrate Halloween,
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 16
The Mayors’ Bash featuring The Molly Ringwald Project
OCTOBER 5 The Stockyard, Orcutt
Miller Ranch Revival Featuring The Eagle Rock Gospel Singers
OCTOBER 5
Strauss Ranch, Agoura Hills
Savannah Sipping Society
Santa Maria Civic Theatre
SAN LUIS OBISPO
THURSDAY,
Funderburgh
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
Hall, SLO The Legends of Rock and Roll SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc
WEDNESDAY,
SLOFunny Comedy Show SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 Morro Bay Eagles Club
Cayucos Backyard Show
Adventures on the Beach, Morro Bay
Frequent Weaver Presents: Bill MacKay
all episodes of the history podcast Door Key will have a spooky theme to the history. You can find Door Key anywhere you stream podcasts. Oct. 1-31 Free. doorkey.buzzsprout.com. 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.
PLAY GROVE, AN OUTDOOR
PRESCHOOL PROGRAM A nature-based and place-based enrichment program. This means we use the environment as our guide as we play, grow, create art, garden, and learn together. Play Grove will allow young children to access this experience alongside enthusiastic playworkers. Through June 7, 2025, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Options: 2 day, 3 day, or 5 day. 805-242-6301. onecoolearth.org/playgrove.html. Jewish Community Center, 875 Laureate Lane, San Luis Obispo.
SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY Stamp Collector? The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets in the SLO UMC Conference Room on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors welcome. For more info, contact SLOPS at slostampclub@ gmail.com. First Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. 805-801-9112. San Luis Obispo United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST OPEN
HOUSE Doors will be open to the church’s Social Hall, where representatives will be on hand to explain the venue’s various activities, particularly social justice and community offerings. The purpose of this Open House is to show what’s available, rather than to promote a particular view.
Sept. 29 11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Free. 859536-1340. uuslo.org. Unitarian Universalist Church, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo.
UNLOCK THE SECRETS TO FUNDRAISING SUCCESS: EMPOWER YOUR NONPROFIT WITH CUTTINGEDGE TECHNIQUES Workshop includes: proven grant writing techniques, gaining corporate sponsors, special event marketing, online fundraising, newsletters, social media, profit centers, crowdfunding, and a list of grant links to get you started. Sept. 26 6-9 p.m. $50. 805-305-0579. cuesta.edu/communityprograms/ community-education/businessfinance/ nonprofit_fundraising-tb.html. Online, See website, 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. Through Sept. 28 213-634-3772. events. arthritis.org. Highway 1, Various locations, Morro Bay.
53RD LIGHTHOUSE BICYCLING EVENT
With the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club. Nearly 900 bicycle riders will be on routes of 40 to 96 miles between Morro Bay and Piedras Blancas Lighthouse. Drivers are asked to be aware of bicyclists. Sept. 28 7 a.m.-5 p.m. slobc.org/lighthouse/. Piedras Blancas Light Station, 15950 Cabrillo Highway, San Simeon.
ANNUAL CAMBRIA SCARECROW FESTIVAL 200 scarecrows will line the streets of Cambria and San Simeon. The festival is full of photo opportunities and happy discoveries at every turn. Perfect for all ages. Oct. 1-31 Free. cambriascarecrows.com. Cambria (various venues), Citywide, Cambria. 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.
FOOD & DRINK
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays 805-922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE INN Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805-332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.
THE MAYORS’ BASH NSBC United Way hosts this gala. aAspecial occasion to honor the region’s five mayors and celebrate the incredible communities of Santa Maria, Guadalupe, Lompoc, Buellton, and Solvang. Oct. 5, 4-9:30 p.m. my805tix. com/. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777.
PRESQU’ILE WINERY TRI-TIP COOK OFF This all-you-can-eat event features local food trucks serving Santa Maria style barbecue, live music, and a friendly competition for a people’s choice award. Presqu’ile will offer its fine wines by the glass and bottle and savory sides. Oct. 6 12-5 p.m. $40; $35 for wine club members. 805-937-8110. presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria.
NOT OF THIS WORLD
The Cambria Scarecrow Festival kicks off on Tuesday, Oct. 1. About 200 scarecrows line the streets of Cambria and San Simeon each year during the annual tradition. The scarecrows on display will remain up through the end of October. To find out more about the festival, visit cambriascarecrows.com.
—C.W.
PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, 805-937-8110.
SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.
TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
THIRD ANNUAL VETERANS
FUNDRAISER BARBECUE The cost is $15 for a tri-tip sandwich, chips, water, and soda. World War II and Korean War veterans and their spouses eat for free. The event will include raffle prizes, free hot dogs for kids, and music. Sept. 28 11 a.m.2 p.m. 805-598-4260. American Legion Post 534, 145 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
WINE & DESIGN CLASSES Check Wine & 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.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
BRITISH HIGH TEA AT ARROWSMITH’S Enjoy a genuine British High Tea at Arrowsmith’s in Solvang. Inlcudes lots of delicious British cakes, savory foods, and English sparkling wine, all set in a beautiful setting. Sept. 28 , 1-3 p.m. $40 to $50. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang. TASTE OF THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY This year will be particularly special with the addition of the Sideways 20th anniversary Festival, a celebration of the 2004 film that helped put the Santa Ynez Valley on the
map. Sept. 26-29 visitsyv.com/. Santa Ynez Valley (valley-wide), Various locations, Santa Ynez.
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 AVILA BEACH SPAGHETTI DINNER/ BINGO NIGHT Enjoy a spaghetti dinner with salad, garlic bread, and dessert, followed by Bingo. Oct. 4 6-8 p.m. my805tix.com/. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach.
HOUSE OF PRAYER’S Q-TEAM MONTHLY BARBECUE Come enjoy finger lickin’ barbecue with all the fixings. First Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 2 805-732-5111. House of Prayer Church, 640 S. Frontage Road, Nipomo.
TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. 805-295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo 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. 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
BOOZY BOOK FAIR Get ready to relive the best parts of your childhood at the Boozy Book Fair. This is a one-of-a-kind book fair for adults. Enjoy a nostalgic fusion of books, funky erasers, and scented stickers with the finest brews from Humdinger’s Brewing (SLO Taproom). Sept. 28 5-8 p.m. Free. 805-668-6300. monarchbooks805. com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo. FALL FEST: CIDER, BEER, AND SPIRITS
STROLL Ticketholders are invited to sample drinks and small bites from local breweries, cideries, distilleries, and restaurants at retailers around downtown SLO as they shop, socialize, and enjoy live music. Sept. 29, 5-8 p.m. my805tix.com/. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.
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 Municipal Winemakers in Santa Barbara. Oct. 5 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 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.
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 season-opening 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.
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 allfemale tribute to Rage Against the Machine. Sept. 27 7 p.m. my805tix.com. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714. THE LEGENDS OF ROCK AND ROLL Enjoy tributes to George Harrison, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, and Carlos Santana. Sept. 28, 6 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 SOLEFFECT AT THE BEACH Enjoy high energy funk rock reimagined covers and originals, ocean views, lawn seating, dancing, great food and beverages, and more. A kid-friendly event. Sept. 27 5-7 p.m. No cover. 805-441-6260. Mulligans Bar and Grill, 6460 Ana Bay Road, Avila Beach.
THE WILBURY SUPERGROUP Legends Tom Petty, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison and Jeff Lynne formed a supergroup in the 1980s but never got to play together in a live concert. This tribute lets you experience that dream live concert with stunning authenticity. Sept. 27, 7:30-10:30 p.m. $34-$44.50. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ the-wilbury-supergroup/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. m
Summer is over, but the good weather is still with us. Historically, the fall is the best season for painting the exterior of your home or business. Evaluate and decide if your home or business will be ok for the upcoming rainy season. Yes, I know it seems early, but I've always believed in taking a proactive approach. Look at the other side of your approach, your house will be ready for the family gatherings you'll be hosting this year. Whether it be Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, a Sunday football game or a simple Santa Maria Style Barbeque, everyone will notice the fresh paint project. Call us for advice, it's always free.
COMMODORES
ARTS BRIEFS
SLOPOKE presents 14th annual Art of the West Show in Solvang
Artworks from more than 30 participating artists will be on display during the 14th annual Art of the West Exhibition and Sale, scheduled to open on Friday, Sept. 27, and run through Sunday, Sept. 29, at Flag Is Up Farms in Solvang.
The three-day exhibition of landscapes, seascapes, wildlife portraits, sculptures, photographs, and other media that celebrate the American West will kick off with its opening night reception and awards presentation on Friday, Sept. 27, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The reception will include live folk and bluegrass music from the Silver Mountain String Band. Artists in the show compete for seven awards, including the juried competition’s coveted silver belt buckles for Best Painting, Best Sculpture, and Best of Show. There will also be sponsored awards given for Best Animal Art, Best Figurative Art, Artists Choice, and Best Art of Today’s West. These four awards offer their winners full-page ads in the national magazines that serve as sponsors.
This year’s featured artist and official awards jurist is Ezra Tucker, renowned for capturing his subjects with texture, motion, and personality. Tucker is an award-winning painter whose works are featured in permanent collections at various outlets, including the Texas Rangers Historical Museum, Booth Western Art Museum, and the USAF Art Program in the Pentagon.
To find out more about SLOPOKE, visit the-slopoke.com.
Flag Is Up Farms is a 100-acre horse ranch located at 901 E. Highway 246, Solvang. The Art in the West Show will be displayed in the ranch’s large horse barn.
American Pickers series scouts across California to find unique antique collectors
The producers of American Pickers an ongoing documentary series on the History Channel, are currently seeking California residents who collect valuable antiques and other unique items. The show is shot in different states throughout the year and will center on California during the month of November.
The series notably does not highlight flea markets, museums, or other businesses, but focuses on individuals with private antique collections of their own. California-based collectors who are interested in appearing on the show can call (646) 493-2184 or send their name, phone number, locations, and a description of their collection with photos to americanpickers@cineflix.com
As “the pickers” travel from coast to coast, the group hopes to “give historically significant objects a new lease on life,” according to press materials.
Visit history.com/shows/american-pickers to find out more. m
Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com
Campy done right
BY SAMANTHA HERRERA
The Great American Melodrama is known for its silly, audience-engaging, and lighthearted theater. If you haven’t had the opportunity to experience this SLO County staple yet, book yourself a ticket to see Werewolf of Arroyo Grande
Written by Cameron Parker and directed by Michael Brusasco, the show takes place a long time ago, in a land not so far away—namely in an imagined ’80s Arroyo Grande. A man named Harry Palmes relocates to the Central Coast town to start up a nut-based fast-food restaurant, and he discovers that the town is being terrorized by a werewolf. This discovery leads the town’s residents to come together and put an end to the horror.
I knew this show would be campy, and I wasn’t disappointed. I also knew that the Oceano-based theater gets a little chilly— even with a full house—so I was prepared. After getting cozy in my jacket, I went to the snack bar and grabbed some nachos, the theater’s chocolate cake I hear so much about, and a Diet Coke to wash it all down.
This play was hands down my favorite show I’ve seen at the Melodrama. It had romance, comedy, and action. And newcomer to the stage Tommy Krob didn’t disappoint in his lead role as Palmes, the man with the nut-based fast-food restaurant who moved to town from a faraway place called Santa Maria.
Growing up in Wisconsin, Krob moved to New York after getting his bachelor’s in fine arts in music theatre from Viterbo University. Krob told New Times that he learned about an opportunity with the Melodrama after attending an audition conference in Memphis, Tennessee.
“You prepare a general 90 seconds, and you go onstage where there’s around 90 representatives watching you, and yeah, The Great American Melodrama just happened to like my stuff, so they reached out and communicated, asked for more material,” he said.
Krob said he will be staying at the Melodrama until the new
When’s the next full moon?
Werewolf of Arroyo Grande is playing at The Great American Melodrama, located at 1863 Front St. in Oceano, through Nov. 19. For showtimes, tickets, and more information, visit americanmelodrama.com.
year and is loving the Central Coast so far.
“I really like it here. It’s small, but it’s big,” he said. “It has everything you could really need.”
Another star of the show was Anna MagriMoore as Officer Mag Num. She played the sheriff who’s based in Arroyo Grande, aka a small town where nothing bad ever happens. Magri-Moore plays her character, who’s a bit dumb and probably shouldn’t have the power she does, with aplomb. I was cracking up every time she came onstage.
Originally from Porterville, Magri-Moore studied music and theater in Santa Barbara before moving up the coast to attend the Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA).
The set and costumes were fabulous with masks, puppets, and, of course, a psychic rooster with an otherworldly deep voice who at one point became an all-knowing being. It was a hoot.
But wait, the Melodrama likes to give their guests two shows for the price of one, and once Werewolf of Arroyo Grande ended, we enjoyed the British Invasion vaudeville revue directed by Ben Abbott.
This is where Natalie Mara, who played Lil’ Sue in Werewolf of Arroyo Grande, thrived. She had on the cutest outfit, her hair was perfect, and her singing was on point.
Paying tribute to British comedy and ’60s rock culture that made its way from England to the rest of the world, the actors donned their best British accents, cracked jokes, and sang popular songs from the Rolling Stones, The Hollies, The Dave Clark Five, and The Beatles—obviously.
“I worked here as an actor for years and we’re always trying to think of vaudeville ideas but sort of always kind of pressed for ideas,” Abbott told the Sun after the show. “I was going to use this one years ago and then COVID happened, so it got put on the back burner, but I really just love The Beatles and British humor.” m
Reach Staff Writer Samantha Herrera at sherrera@newtimesslo.com.
COURTESY IMAGE BY EZRA TUCKER
THE TRANSFORMATION: In the Melodrama’s production of Werewolf of Arroyo Grande, Harry Palmes, played by Tommy Krob, gets bit by the Arroyo Grande werewolf and turns during his first full moon.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF STACY HALVORSEN
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AMERICAN PICKERS
Price of beauty
Writer-director Coralie Fargeat (Revenge) helms this dark comedy/body horror film about fading celebrity Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), who takes a blackmarket cell-replicating drug that promises to create a separate, younger, more “perfect” version of herself. Birthed out of Elisabeth’s back, the new version calls herself Sue (Margaret Qualley). They soon discover the drug, and its required subsequent protocols and therapies, comes with horrifying side effects. (140-min.)
Glen: This one’s not for the squeamish. I don’t know what the fake blood and guts budget was, but no expense was spared. At its core, the film explores our obsession with youth, our impossible-to-meet beauty standards for women especially, Hollywood’s unkind treatment of aging women, and vanity itself. Elisabeth has just turned 50, she’s fired from her job as a TV fitness guru, and as she’s driving home, she sees her billboard being taken down. She gets into a car accident and finds herself in the hospital where a handsome nurse (Robin Greer) slips her a note and flash drive about “The Substance.” She watches the presentation on the drive in her amazing apartment overlooking LA. Its central feature is a huge photograph of her in her prime. The allure of reclaiming her youth is too great, but be careful what you wish for, Lizzy!
Anna: It’s interesting that we don’t really
KAOS
What’s it rated? TV-MA
When? 2024
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Created by Charlie Covell (The End of the F***ing World ), this darkly funny series finds an increasingly paranoid Zeus (a delightfully droll Jeff Goldblum) fearing the end of his reign when he notices a wrinkle on his forehead and interprets it as a harbinger of doom. The series is narrated by Prometheus (Stephen Dillane), Zeus’ best friend who incurred Zeus’ wrath so he’s being endlessly tortured by hanging from a cliff where a bird pecks at his guts. It’s just another day on Olympus. Zeus is married to Hera (Janet McTeer) who’s having an affair with Poseidon (Cliff Curtis). Zeus’ son Dionysus (Nabhaan Rizwan) desperately wants more responsibility. Eurydice “Riddy” (Aurora Perrineau) has fallen out of love with her partner Orpheus (Killian Scott). Hades (David Thewlis) is doing his best to keep the underworld humming. Medusa (Debi Mazar), Cassandra (Billie Piper), Persephone (Ralie Ayola)—the gang’s all here! You don’t have to know Greek and Roman mythology to enjoy the series, but it helps.
It’s a tad overstuffed, maybe even verging on bloated, but it’s also a lot of fun, and it doesn’t take itself too seriously.
get to fully know the character of Elisabeth. Instead, the audience is left to piece together the puzzle of her life. She’s got a beautiful high-rise apartment, but beyond a housekeeper and a nosy neighbor, she never seems to have anyone else around her in it. At work, she’s used until she’s deemed no longer useful. She doesn’t seem to have a team there that has her back either. It just feels utterly lonely, so when the prospect of getting back in the limelight comes, she can’t help but take the bait. The fact of the matter is that Lizzy is her own worst enemy, and now she’s given agency to the part of herself that is fed by ego. This movie is uncomfortable, and there’s no shortage of blood, guts, and viscera—so take heed before watching.
Glen: Dennis Quaid stars as Harvey, a repellant studio exec who Fargeat films in the most unflattering way: close-ups on his face with a near-fisheye lens that make him look carbuncular. In one scene, we see him eating shrimp, and it’s as gross as the creature effects to come. Fargeat’s direction throughout is spellbinding, and Moore—holy toledo! This is a committed, raw, and highly effective performance. She’s 61 playing a 50-year-old, and she looks stunning. That’s part of the message. Elisabeth is gorgeous and seems to have it all, but there’s never enough attention for her. The film has a real mid-career David Cronenberg vibe. Think The Fly (1986), Crash (1996), and eXistenZ (1999). Very unsettling.
Goldblum especially seems to be having a blast. Satiric Greek mythology in the modern world for the win! (eight 46- to 56-min. episodes) —Glen
Anna: Quaid does a great job of being repulsive here—that shrimp scene is especially off-putting. Sue’s decisions affect Elisabeth and vice versa, but given the chance, Elisabeth can’t seem to let go of her younger half, despite its having nasty effects on her 50-year-old self. The whole dynamic is that two are one, but Sue doesn’t seem to have much consideration for Elisabeth, and Elisabeth is growing increasingly frustrated with her younger self. Youth is wasted on the young, right? Moore
THE PERFECT COUPLE
What’s it rated? TV-MA
When? 2024
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Uber rich power couple Greer (Nicole Kidman) and Tag (Leiv Schreiber) seem to have it all—a sprawling estate on Nantucket, healthy grown children, booming careers, and more money than God. Perfection cracks quickly, though, when their son Benji’s (Billy Howle) impending wedding weekend takes a dark turn with the death of maid of honor Merritt (Meghann Fahy), in the waters outside of the family compound. It’s clear that Merritt didn’t just take a swim that turned deadly, and soon everyone is under suspicion.
Tag is becoming more and more unhinged and reckless in his drinking spats, their son Thomas (Jack Reynor) seems to have some deep dark secrets of his own, and matriarch Greer can hardly hide her disdain for all of them, Merritt and brideto-be Amelia (Eve Hewson) in particular.
The tale that’s spun is the messy sort of soap opera drama that we’ve seen on-screen before with shows like Big Little Lies and Sharp Objects If watching rich people be terrible to each other strikes your fancy, then this series was made just for you. It’s also
is spectacular here, and vulnerable. I think every actress who has lost a role to a younger counterpart can feel the sting that we see play out on-screen. This film is weird, but it rings true. Ego is a monster that lives in all of us, and if you don’t follow the rules, it will surely take over. m
New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
an intriguing whodunit that
FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH: Demi Moore stars as a fading celebrity who turns to a black-market drug to reclaim her youth, but it comes with a cost, in The Substance, screening in local theaters.
PETTY GOD: Jeff Goldblum stars as Zeus, an insecure and vengeful god who’s losing his power, in Kaos, a modern-day take on Greek mythology streaming on Netflix.
PERFECTLY AWFUL: Nicole Kidman stars as Greer Garrison Winbury, the controlling matriarch of a family of rich jerks, in The Perfect Couple, streaming on Netflix.
showing? Regal
BY CAMILLIA LANHAM
Every recipe chosen to populate the menu at Santa Maria’s newest Filipino restaurant has been tastetested and perfected by generations.
“We always stick with the authenticity of the food. So whatever the usual household is cooking is what we serve,” Raul Capuno said. “All of these recipes have been tested for years and years.”
Capuno’s Lutong Bahay opened in December 2023 with the help of Capuno’s wife, daughters, and sonin-law. The family business is rapidly approaching its one-year anniversary, recently opened for breakfast, and is currently expanding its small storefront into the space next door.
His four daughters grew up eating the food that’s now being served out of their Santa Maria restaurant—a combination platter of cuisines highlighting the areas of the Philippines where their parents grew up. Raul’s specialties are from Candelaria, Quezon Province, and his wife, Jonah, is from Bacolod, Negros Occidental.
“Their love language is cooking,” their daughter Marielle Capuno said, adding that they were always in the kitchen.
“We’re the critics, the food critics,” Marielle added with a laugh.
“Over the years, we finessed the recipes,” said Raul, who grew up helping his mom cook. “My mom was always in the kitchen, too.”
Marielle (the second oldest daughter) helps out with the restaurant’s front of house, overall operations, and marketing material, while her sister Rona Peña (who’s the oldest) spearheads the pastry
Dine in, take out
and dessert-making. Peña attended culinary school in the Philippines and worked at Jeannine’s bakery in Santa Barbara for eight years.
Most of the breakfast options on offer as of the beginning of September are served Silog style—garlic fried rice with eggs and a choice of meat—and Capuno’s began offering pandesal—a sweet, soft bread that’s a breakfast staple in every home in the Philippines—as part of its pastry selection.
The first Sunday Capuno’s offered the fluffy, buttery pandesal, they sold out by 11 a.m.
“People buy dozens and dozens and take them,” Peña said. “We’re still trying to assess the demand. … We were not expecting it.”
As part of the breakfast pastries
Lutong Bahay is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner Wednesday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
offered at the counter, Peña whips up pandesal, ube (purple yam) pandesal, ensaymada (a brioche rolled in butter and sugar and topped with butter, sugar, and cheese), and a sweet milky roll stuffed with cheese and topped with milk powder.
Now open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and serving Santa Barbara Roasting Company coffee, Capuno’s offers breakfast all day, except for Mondays and Tuesdays when the restaurant is closed.
On Sundays, the whole family is there, including mom Jonah who still works as an RN in a Santa Barbara dialysis clinic.
“It’s a very comforting and easy feeling to be here together as a family,” said Peña, whose husband also helps out in the kitchen.
Raul was also in the health care field and worked as a medical tech in a lab testing blood before putting all his efforts into the restaurant. He met Jonah while they were both working their first
jobs at a hospital in Raul’s hometown. They came to the U.S. in 1992, starting on the East Coast in New Jersery, New York, and Connecticut before heading to Thousand Oaks, Santa Barbara, and now Santa Maria. In the process, they had four daughters—
one who’s still in high school and one in college—who grew up in a tight-knit family unit that continues to spend time in the kitchen together doing what they’re passionate about.
BREAKFAST TREATS: Now open at 8 a.m., Capuno’s in Santa Maria dishes out fresh Filipino pastries such as ensaymada (top left), cheese rolls (top right), pandesal (bottom left), and ube pandesal (bottom right).
EAT RIGHT: Capuno’s Lutong Bahay offers combination plates of Filipino classics, such as skewers of grilled pork cooked with the family’s barbecue recipe, pancit (noodles and vegetables in a sweet, spicy sauce), rice, and lumpia (a Filipino egg roll).
EATS continued page 22
Capuno’s
A FAMILY THAT STAYS TOGETHER: The Capuno family with Raul (bottom left) and Jonah (bottom right) at the helm opened Capuno’s Lutong Bahay in December 2023 with the help of their children and son-in-law.
“We grew up seeing everything they did for us … coming from humbler beginnings and growing up so close to that,” Marielle said of her decision to work in her parents’ restaurant. “We saw that it was something that they really wanted to do for themselves. … And we really wanted to support it.”
Raul said he and Jonah have always wanted a restaurant and to share their culture and food with the community. And they wanted it to be homestyle cooking—hence the name Capuno’s Lutong Bahay. Lutong bahay, he said, means homestyle cooking.
won’t be disappointed. The food is tasty.
“We wanted to share the taste of our cooking with the community and for them to experience the authenticity of Filipino cuisine,” Raul said.
They each have a favorite. Marielle loves the pinoy spaghetti, a Filipino adaptation of Italian spaghetti with a sweet tomato sauce that includes brown sugar, banana ketchup, and Nathan’s hot dogs. For Peña, it’s anything chicken, like the chicken skewers grilled with the family’s homemade barbecue sauce or the chicken adobo braised in soy sauce, a vinegar mixture, and a lot of garlic.
Raul’s favorite is “everything I cook,” he said with a laugh before adding that what he loves is also a customer favorite: the pork adobo.
All combos are served with rice, pancit (noodles and vegetables in a sweet, spicy sauce), and Jonah’s lumpia (basically a Filipino egg roll)—which come with beef or pork. And you
Customers come from near and far for the homecooked food served at Capuno’s, and often, Raul said, diners will tell him how much the dishes remind them of home. Sometimes, though, they don’t have enough tables for their customers. That’s one of the reasons why the restaurant is expanding into the space next door.
“We started with only two tables and that bench,” he said pointing to a bench and table against one of the space’s windows. “Sometimes people leave because there’s nowhere to sit.”
Hoping to accommodate everyone who’s ready for some lutong bahay, Raul said the addition should be done by the end of September. With teamwork and passion for comforting cuisine, Jonah and Raul’s tight-knit family plans to continue serving up good food that comes from the heart. m
Editor Camillia Lanham wants more chicken adobo, beef lumpia, and pancit. Send new restaurant tips to clanham@santamariasun.com.
