About 170 miles of containment line encircled the Lake Fire earlier this summer in the Los Padres National Forest as part of fire crews’ efforts to prevent it from spreading even further. In October, the U.S. Forest Service started working in collaboration with the Chumash Fire Department to repair the damage done to the ecosystem, important cultural sites, and native places by those dozer lines. Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor speaks to Chumash firefighters and the Forest Service about the work they’re doing and its importance [6]
This week, you can also read about the county’s approval of the agricultural ordinance [4]; an intimate concert that aims to benefit the Lompoc Theatre Project [22]; and a book celebrating Sideways on its 20th anniversary [25]
Camillia Lanham editor
Luxury Condos
• Congress advanced federal legislation that acknowledges the disruption that space launch noise has on nearby communities, a first for federal decisionmakers, according to a Dec. 12 statement from U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal ’s (D-Santa Barbara) office. Carbajal secured the language as well as helped outline the steps the Department of Defense should take to mitigate the impact of sonic booms and other disturbances. “Residents of the Central Coast in Lompoc and other communities nearby Vandenberg [Space Force Base] have shared their growing concerns as increased space launch cadence makes launch noise a larger burden on their routines and quality of life,” Carbajal said. “This language makes it clear to the Department of Defense that these are not concerns they can plug their ears and ignore. Congress will take these impacts seriously. … I will continue working with the leadership at Vandenberg, the Department of the Air Force, and my region’s residents to pursue the win-win solutions that protect both national security and the serenity of the Central Coast.”
• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) announced that the Environmental Protection Agency awarded 15 California projects a combined $216.5 million to advance local, on-the-ground projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and strengthen workforce development. The funding comes from the Inflation Reduction Act as part of the Community Change Grants Program, the largest nationwide investment in environmental and climate justice in history. The Community Change Grants program addresses the diverse and unique needs of disadvantaged communities by reducing air, water, and soil pollution, building resilient infrastructure to extreme weather events, and bolstering workforce development. “Overlooked communities across California have struggled for generations with air pollution and unaffordable water and energy bills. The climate crisis has only underscored these vulnerabilities,” Padilla said in the statement. “Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, we’re delivering millions in environmental justice investments to reduce energy costs and improve air quality, while developing climate-resilient community workforces.”
• Continuing the state’s efforts to address the illegal cannabis market, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that California’s Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force seized a combined total of more than $19 million worth of illegally grown cannabis and illegally manufactured cannabis products during concurrent operations in Oakland and Hayward, according to a Dec. 10 statement from Newsom’s office. “I’m proud of the recent work by our cannabis task force, seizing a staggering $19.2 million in illicit cannabis from across the Bay Area,” Newsom said in the statement. “These operations are imperative in both bolstering California’s legal cannabis market and protecting consumers from unregulated and dangerous products.” Illegal products seized in the California Department of Fish and Wildlife-led operation in Oakland included more than 7,000 illegal cannabis plants worth $6.1 million, 1,200 pounds of processed cannabis flower worth $2 million, 581 pounds of concentrated cannabis worth $4.4 million, and 6,250 disposable vape cartridges worth more than $41,000. In 2022, Governor Newsom created the task force to further align state efforts and increase cannabis enforcement coordination between state, local, and federal partners. The enforcement actions protect consumer and public safety, safeguard the environment, and deprive illegal cannabis operators and transnational criminal organizations of illicit revenue that harms consumers and undercuts the regulated cannabis market in California. m
Farm stays, camping, events approved as part of Ag Enterprise Ordinance
The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the first-of-its-kind Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance, closing years of time and effort poured into one document.
“The AEO [Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance] supports the continuation of farming and ranching on agricultural lands,” Santa Barbara County 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann told the Sun. “It will allow for activities like on-site farmstands, tree nut hulling and processing, and a variety of small-scale incidental and supplemental uses like farm stays, low-impact recreation, camping, or small-scale events.”
The ordinance originally came before supervisors in early November, but they tabled it until December to iron out some details, including Hartmann’s concerns around camping and farm stays impacting agriculture activities, which came up during the Dec. 10 meeting.
The county’s adjustments will include more stringent permits for small-scale campgrounds and reduce the number of campsites from 20 to 15. It increased the percentage of owner-provided accommodations like trailers, tents, cabins, or yurts, from 60 percent to 70 percent of campsites, and it will require guests of these facilities pay hotel bed tax (transient occupancy tax).
“The AEO represents a step toward preserving and strengthening the county’s agricultural economy by providing a framework for innovative and sustainable agricultural operations,” Hartmann told the Sun. “I believe we found a balance between supporting some of these new activities while maintaining the harmony for neighbors around these parcels.”
Santa Barbara County’s ag industry saw $1.87 billion in gross production value in 2023, but that number doesn’t represent growers’ take-home pay. Farmers across the county have struggled with increased operating costs, more state and federal regulations, and competition from other counties, states, and countries with fewer labor and environmental protections.
In order to preserve agricultural activities, the Planning and Development Department proposed an overlay, which limits additional activities like camping or farm stays in order to protect row crops and other production activities, particularly in the Santa Maria Valley. After the November meeting, supervisors decided to cut out an area near Garey from the limited agricultural enterprise use.
“One of the things the state wanted is … to see a little more [residential] density,” said Halvorson, who described staff’s recommended code adjustments as based on commitments the city has to the state Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
In early December, the Lompoc City Council adopted a housing element update, which staff submitted to the HCD for review, according to the staff report. To meet the HCD’s certification requirements, the city needs to increase residential density in certain areas, including Old Town Lompoc.
“The Old Town, as we know, is not just a commercial area … it’s also an area that allows residential,” Halvorson said. “So the state honed in on that designation, and wants to increase the amount of residential floor that is allowed in that designation.”
One of staff’s proposed land use amendments would increase the allowable residential floor area in the Old Town Lompoc area from about 50 to 75 percent.
The proposal includes various code adjustments aimed at increasing Lompoc’s housing density, including revisions on maximum building height limits (currently 45 feet) in Lompoc’s commercial and mixed-use zones.
However, the Grower-Shipper Association of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties wrote about “grave concerns” for these changes in a public comment letter.
“We are concerned that introducing a new, limiting overlay could morph or be applied in new ways in the future beyond its current intended purpose, and inadvertently damage the very agricultural areas and activities that it is intended to protect,” Grower-Shipper President Claire Wineman wrote in the letter. “We are further concerned that the overlays, as currently contemplated, do not provide equal treatment and protection to our members who farm outside the boundaries; we also have members who farm both within and outside of the proposed overlays.”
Wineman suggested private party agreements as an additional means to resolve the local needs per individual site or reinstating a 1,000foot setback from row crops and 400 feet from orchards and vineyards to protect production— which were implemented for composting activities, but not across all enterprise activities.
“Promoting and protecting the diversity of agriculture cannot come at the expense of the core functionality of agricultural activities,” Wineman said in the letter. “As an essential industry, agriculture has not experienced the same timing of economic downturns and hardships as other economic sectors, most especially tourism and recreation, and must maintain a robust piece of the local economy.”
—Taylor O’Connor
Lompoc Planning Commission supports new land use standards to increase housing density
Designed to pave the way for slightly taller buildings and other development changes in Lompoc, a list of potential code revisions will move forward to the City Council with the Planning Commission’s support.
During its final meeting of 2024, the Planning Commission unanimously signed off on staff’s proposal to update certain land use designations and standards in the city’s general plan and zoning code. Many of these amendments remove or revise specific constraints on residential projects and other developments.
Some are tied to city initiatives, while others were drafted to comply with a state agency’s mandate, Planning Manager Brian Halvorson explained at the Dec. 11 hearing.
“In order to get the capacity that was described in our housing element, the state wants tall buildings,” Halvorson said. “This is a pretty small change, from 45 to 50 feet tall.”
Before the Lompoc Planning Commission voted on the amendments, Planning Commissioner Steve Bridge asked staff for clarity on a revision that removes single-family residential as an allowable use in the mixed-use zone.
“That one makes me feel nervous,” Bridge said. “It’s going to be up to interpretation.”
Bridge raised an example of a commercial developer proposing to build a caretaker’s unit (defined as a permanent residence to house an on-site caretaker), detached from a commercial building in the mixed-use zone, and asked whether or not the request would fly under the single-family home ban.
“If it was detached, but it was a caretaker, we’d probably rely on our city attorney to give us an interpretation,” Halvorson said. “I would say, at face value, that even if it was detached, … we probably would allow it.”
With a 3-0 vote, the Planning Commission ultimately greenlit staff’s list of amended land use standards and definitions, which will be reviewed by the City Council for final approval.
—Caleb Wiseblood
Bird, bat deaths take Strauss Wind project back to Planning Commission
At least 47 animal deaths, including one known golden eagle fatality, brought the Strauss Wind Energy Project back to the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission to see if the project’s operations need to be adjusted to better preserve birds and bats.
However, the Planning Commission decided that it needed more data before any significant operational changes would occur.
“This facility has been operating for a year. It’s giant, almost 6,000 acres, 27 turbines—I think looking at the take after a year of 47 [fatalities], I’m sure there are some who would like that to be zero, as we see in a lot of mitigation requests for other sorts of projects, is not feasible,” 4th District Commissioner Roy Reed said during the Dec. 11 Planning Commission hearing. “I think it’s operating pretty well right now.”
The Board of Supervisors approved the commercial scale wind energy project owned by BayWa in 2019. It sits in the 3rd District, southeast of Lompoc near San Miguelito Canyon and Sudden roads. It’s been operating since November 2023.
CAMPING IS OK: Small scale camping, farm stays, and Hipcamps (like this one in Buellton) can now operate in Santa Barbara County after the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved its Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance on Dec. 10.
Part of the project’s approval included an adaptive management plan, the first of its kind, which requires the operator to track the number of bird and bat carcasses found around the turbines and report to the county once the quantity meets certain thresholds, which depend on whether the species is protected or considered non-sensitive, said Jacquelynn Ybarra, a planner with Planning and Development’s Energy, Minerals, and Compliance Division.
BayWa has to tell the county and increase carcass counts from monthly to every three or four days if it finds one federal- or Californialisted protected species; two non-listed sensitive species and local species of concern; three raptors without designated conservation status; and four nonsensitive bird or bat species.
In an attempt to lessen the project’s impacts, Strauss agreed to modify the carcass surveys for half of the turbines to twice a month and all of them once a month; conduct a feasibility study for painting the blades black to help improve birds’ and bats’ ability to see the turbines; monitor golden eagle nests within 1 mile of the project; and evaluate the performance of Identiflight—the technology used that identifies golden eagles and stops the turbines to give them safe passage.
“Identiflight is very open to discussing the technology, however they have a nondisclosure agreement with the applicant so there is this veil of secrecy over the operation of the units at the site and how they’re performing and what’s happening,” Energy Minerals and Compliance Deputy Director Errin Briggs told commissioners. “There’s a ton of data there [that] they are not sharing with us that we are just in the dark on. They are very very careful in talking with us, however, they can discuss the technology in general.”
Gordon MacDougall, managing director of BayWa, told commissioners that the wind turbine team is required to sign a nondisclosure agreement with all of its contractors on that site “given the proximity to Vandenberg” Space Force Base.
Initially, commissioners discussed modifying the thresholds to trigger responses earlier, but the operator pushed back on this motion—claiming that it would hurt operations.
“We believe the information made to guide those decisions is faulted and is … pulled from data on very outdated wind farms, actual data on the bird and bat conservation strategy is listed as far as what the average impact per megawatt average was at the time,” said Jeffery Carroll, an ecologist with BayWa. “We went through average fatalities, there is a significant difference.”
Strauss Wind had one eagle fatality documented while the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service projected that 15 golden eagles would die from the turbines. Commissioners agreed that the project needed more time to produce more data that would paint a better picture of its impact. The project will return to the Planning Commission in a year with an update.
now! Send any news or story tips to news@santamariasun.com.
“This has been a substantial learning experience for me, and I think for all of us, and all in all, I think we’re better prepared to monitor ongoing operations than we ever would have been in the past,” 1st District C. Michael Cooney said. “I’m much more concerned about what we do not know. Is there evidence of more strikes than what we’re hearing? Mr. Briggs’ comments about limited information really concerns me, … but we should recognize it’s a process and we’re not going to complete it today no matter how much time we spend.” m —Taylor O’Connor
FOG TRAPPERS
The
Department
of
Suppression repair
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
Chumash Fire Department Capt. Quntan
Garcia placed a stalky beige plant into my hand and slowly trickled water from his Kirkland water bottle over it.
My hands were slightly coated with dust after spending a dry October day outside on Sierra Madre in Los Padres National Forest.
“This is soap plant,” he explained as he continued pouring water and told me to start rubbing my hands together.
“Is it working?”
I started to hear the familiar whoosh and feel the soft sticky texture that comes with pumping soap onto my hands. Dirty water escaped from my palms and between my fingers, which felt moisturized and clean once I shook them dry.
For hundreds of years, the Chumash have harvested and used the wavyleaf soap plant. Garcia identifies native plants like this one as well as cultural sites through the Chumash Fire Department’s Resource Unit’s efforts to help preserve the tribe’s history on public lands like Los Padres.
In October 2024, he went out with a crew to the Sierra Madre ridgeline, off Highway
166 outside Cuyama and New Cuyama. That ridgeline was the last line of defense prepared against the Lake Fire, which ignited on July 5, 2024, and burned more than 38,000 acres in three weeks.
During the fire’s early days, Los Padres used bulldozers to push back vegetation and built 170 miles of 12-foot contingency lines—creating “a line of unburnable soil to keep the fire from crossing,” Los Padres Forest Service Fire Public Information Officer Flemming Bertelsen said.
“Dozers put lines in quicker, but it’s more invasive. There’s a lot of soil displaced,” Bertelsen said as he navigated a Jeep over steep hillsides and bumpy private dirt roads. “If we don’t rehab the vegetation that’s used to slow down the runoff, it’ll end up in our trails, campgrounds.”
Starting in mid-October, Los Padres and the Chumash Fire Department went into restoration mode in areas damaged by fire suppression efforts and repaired remote roads to preserve them for the upcoming rainy season. Crews removed any trees that could fall on hikers and campers, built berms to redirect water flow, pulled out invasive plants, and restored the forest to its natural state as much as possible.
As of Dec. 13, suppression repair from Figueroa Mountain to Sierra Madre was about 90 percent complete, with rangers and firefighters pausing for the holidays and scheduled to resume efforts on Jan. 12, 2025, Los Padres Santa Lucia Ranger District Battalion Chief Vincent Montes told the Sun. About 50 employees supported these efforts, which will cost millions of dollars to complete.
“As soon as we hit 100 percent, it’s the satisfaction that we got a big project done with efforts helping us out, and it’s one less worry when wintertime comes and roads aren’t fixed,” Montes said. “The rains can damage more, and then we’re stuck with a bigger project.”
Prior the the 2017 Thomas Fire and resulting debris flow in 2018, the way the Forest Service conducted suppression repair was different, Public Information Officer Bertelsen said.
“In the past, fires would come, the Washington office would want to put the fire out and repair quickly,” he said.
Now, the Forest Service can take more time on repair efforts because the D.C. office wants a more “thorough recovery”—including protection of culturally significant and sensitive sites scattered throughout Los Padres.
“You’re obligated to be caretakers of the land. That’s our Fire Department motto,” Chumash Fire Capt. Garcia said.
The current fire chief helped start the Chumash Fire Department in 2006 after he saw several Indigenous people come forward to prevent a cultural site from being bulldozed during suppression efforts for a Northern California fire, Assistant Fire Chief Gilbert Romero told the Sun In 2007, the department responded to repair damaged cultural sites after the Zaca Fire.
“And then it was like, well how do we get ahead of that and stop them, and that was where we started making progress to being able to get ahead of things and going out to protect them,” Romero said.
The team now has about 22 firefighters and four fire trucks that respond to emergencies on the reservation and provide local and national fire suppression responses through agreements with the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Forest Service. They’ve responded to the Thomas, Woolsey, and Alisal fires, and traveled throughout California as well as to Arizona and New Mexico to help protect culturally sensitive areas in other regions.
Cultural specialists use a mapping system that logs all of the sites throughout Los Padres, Fire Capt. Garcia added. The units travel in utility task vehicles to flag the sites—which can hold arrowheads, beads, stone pots, or woven baskets—before any repair efforts begin.
“It’s a race to get out here and flag it, and then explain to whoever’s in charge, and they’ll explain to the operator: When they see this flag don’t touch it,” Garcia said. “Families pass that knowledge down, and we pass it to the Forest Service.”
The exact site locations are confidential because people used to dig up or take artifacts for themselves. Part of Garcia’s work at the Fire Department is to educate the public about the importance of cultural and native plant preservation. The tribe’s elders have protected the land for the last 100 years, but the tribes can’t protect the sites by themselves anymore, Garcia said.
“It’s an ongoing cycle for us; we have to stay a part of it because we know things change. … We have to pass the token to speak up and educate,” Garcia said. “Every inch represents 150 years, and you can’t get it back once it’s gone.” m
Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.
SIERRA MADRE: On Oct. 23, 2024, the Chumash Fire Department and the Los Padres Forest Service went out to the Sierra Madre ridgeline off Highway 166 to restore the forest to its natural state after suppression efforts during the 2024 Lake Fire.
Botox
Christmas Tree Collection
Christmas Tree Collection Christmas Tree Collection
CITY OF SANTA MARIA RESIDENTS
n Discarded Christmas trees will be collected at no charge from the curb on your scheduled trash collection day during the week of JANUARY 13, 2025 – JANUARY 17, 2025, on residential trash collection routes. (Charges apply after January 17.)
n Place your Christmas tree on the curb, at least three feet away from your trash container, on your scheduled collection day. Trees must be free of all stands, tinsel, and ornaments. Flocked trees or artificial trees are not accepted. Trees taller than 8 feet should be cut in half.
n Cut up trees can also be placed in organics containers.
Emergency texts
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office promotes its text-to-911 feature for emergencies
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
There are emergencies where calling 911 isn’t possible.
“An example we had in 2021 was [a] passenger with a drunk driver,” Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Raquel Zick told the Sun. “They can’t just say, ‘Hey, this person is driving me down the San Marcos Pass and they’re drunk’ … situations where someone is within earshot and they want to reach out for help.”
Power outages can impact cellphone towers and people can’t call, but they can still text. These circumstances prompted all of Santa Barbara County’s law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, to allow people in emergency situations to text 911.
“It’s widely available; it’s available in all states except for New Mexico, that’s what was shared with me, but the local agencies have to opt in to accept the text messages,” Zick said, adding that if a jurisdiction hasn’t opted in, the texter will receive a bounce-back message.
Santa Barbara County opted in to the text feature in 2020, she said. As of Dec. 12, the Sheriff’s Office has had 115 text-to-911 discussions versus 4,243 voice calls this year. While previous years’ data isn’t available, Zick anticipated a steady incline in texting as people become more aware of this option.
“During an emergency is not a time to try and educate somebody; we are not currently in an emergency so this is the time to educate people,” she said.
Prior to taking on her role as the public information officer, Zick worked as a dispatch officer and still steps in to serve in dispatch part-time, and she’s had people in emergency situations call the non-emergency line, email her, and message her on social media. In some of her experiences, she’s lucky to catch the emergencyrelated messages within minutes. Others have sat for hours before she can address them.
In those situations when someone is contacting through a non-emergency means, Zick will transfer the information to dispatch who will handle the situation.
“When somebody is having an emergency, it’s not necessarily a teachable moment. … If there’s an opportunity afterward, we circle back,” she said. “You go into that lizard brain when you’re in an emergency and it probably makes sense to them in the moment, but when you’re not in the moment you’re just thinking, ‘Why would you think that’s OK?’ But that’s for another time.”
The text feature also presents another option for
people who might be more comfortable texting rather than talking over the phone.
“It’s a very helpful service; one of the downsides, which feels very obvious, is there is a bit of a delay. They do have to type out the message and wait for a response; there is a bit of a volley,” she said. “[If] the options are a slow volley or non-reporting, this is far better.”
Texting also doesn’t pinpoint an exact location in the same way a phone call does. Landlines are the best because dispatchers can get an exact street address; a cellphone gives an address within a certain perimeter.
“A text is a general distance from the nearest tower, and that can be quite a needle in the haystack,” Zick said. “One of the very first things you can lead with is you can start with your location. Location is everything when sending an emergency response; we can send all the disciplines of help to an address when we’ve got it.”
While locations may be more general now, dispatch technology is always evolving and improving.
“There’s always something new in that world that you would otherwise think is a bit static … but it’s definitely there and definitely what they are navigating,” she said.
At this time, the text feature is only available for emergencies. People can report nonemergencies to the Sheriff’s Office by calling (805) 683-2724.
Highlight
• CommUnify recently announced its first-ever Upward Mobility Summit to be held simultaneously at Santa Barbara City College and Allan Hancock College (connected digitally) on Jan. 24 from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The Santa Barbara County nonprofit will be leading a consortium of 15 local public and private organizations to increase awareness of the high level of poverty in the county. The summit will kick off a two-year initiative to reframe the narrative around poverty by using the Upward Mobility Framework created by the Urban Institute in Washington, D.C., which creates a foundation for “efforts to advance upward mobility and racial equity for people and communities,” according to the institute’s website. Santa Barbara County is a member of 26 localities across the U.S. that have joined the Mobility Action Learning Network to receive training and technical assistance to incorporate strategies and solutions that promote mobility and equity in their communities. Visit communifysb.org/ upward-mobility-summit for more information and to register for the event. m
Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.
WHAT’S UR EMERGENCY? The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office is promoting its text-to-911 feature where people can send messages to dispatchers during emergencies instead of calling.
ATTENTION all former SMJUHSD
Special Education Students born
2000!
All records for any Special Education student that was born within the year 2000 and attended a Santa Maria Joint Union High School District school, your physical special education records are available for pick up at no charge from the District Office. All 2000 not picked up by June 1, 2025 will be destroyed.
If you have any questions, or to arrange a pickup date/time, contact:
Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. of Special Education
Santa Maria Joint Union High School District
2560 Skyway Dr. Santa Maria, CA 93455
805-922-4573 ext. 4311
ATENCION estudiantes anteriores de SMJUHSD nacidos en 2000!
Todos los registros de cualquier estudiante de Educación Especial que haya nacido dentro del año 2000 y asistió a una escuela del Distrito Escolar de las escuelas preparatorias de Santa Maria, sus registros físicos de educación especial están disponibles para recoger sin cargo en la Oficina del Distrito. Todos los registros del 2000 que no hayan sido recogidos para el 1 de junio de 2025 serán destruidos. Si tiene alguna pregunta, o para programar una fecha/hora de recogida, comuníquense con:
Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. of Special Education
Santa Maria Joint Union High School District
2560 Skyway Dr. Santa Maria, CA 93455
805-922-4573 ext. 4311
The
Santa Maria Joint Union High School
District
Special Education - Child Find
The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) seeks to identify, locate, and evaluate high school age students suspected of having a disability who may be eligible for special education services designed to meet their educational needs at no cost to families. This includes students that are highly mobile, migrant, experiencing homelessness, students that are wards of the state, and students attending private schools located within SMJUHSD boundaries. If you suspect your child has a disability, contact the school special education department or district office Special Education Department.
Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)
El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria Educación Especial - Búsqueda de Estudiantes
El Distrito Unificado de Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria (SMJUHSD) busca identificar, localizar y evaluar a los estudiantes en edad de escuela preparatoria sospechosos de tener una discapacidad que puede ser elegible para servicios de educación especial diseñados para satisfacer sus necesidades educativas sin costo alguno para las familias. Esto incluye a los estudiantes que son altamente móviles, migrantes, sin hogar, estudiantes que están bajo la tutela del estado, y los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas privadas ubicadas dentro los limites de SMJUHSD. Si sospecha que su hijo tiene una discapacidad, comuníquese con el departamento de educación especial de la escuela u oficina de Educación Especial del distrito SMJUHSD.
Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)
What song are you most looking forward to hearing at PCPA’s Beauty and the Beast?
56% “Be Our Guest”
33% “Gaston,” duh!
11% “Belle”
0% “Human Again”
9 Votes
Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.
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Environmental groups are threatening South SLO County’s water security
BY JIMMY PAULDING
As the San Luis Obispo County supervisor representing South County, I am deeply concerned about the recent lawsuit and court decision against the county regarding the county’s operation of Lopez Dam. This lawsuit is a judicial end run around the county’s years-long administrative process with the state and federal agencies that are responsible for regulating endangered species and protected resources.
While protecting steelhead trout is an admirable goal, this lawsuit and the plaintiffs behind it take an unnecessarily myopic view and refuse to properly consider the consequences of their lawsuit on other species and resources as well as our region’s already fragile water supply. To be clear, this lawsuit jeopardizes the water security of Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Oceano, Pismo Beach, and Avila Beach—communities that rely on Lopez Lake Reservoir for survival.
Jazz Jubilee Central Coast 2024—a big success!
The Basin Street Regulars Hot Jazz Club has been promoting jazz on the Central Coast with monthly dance concerts and an annual festival for almost 50 years. BSR also provides scholarships to Jazz Camp for young musicians who are interested in furthering their knowledge of music and jazz—learning from the pros!
This fall, the Basin Street Regulars Hot Jazz Club expanded its annual festival by initiating and orchestrating the Jazz Jubilee Central Coast 2024. Local music venues, jazz organizations, dance clubs,
The lawsuit, brought by the Ecological Rights Foundation and in coordination with local agencies San Luis Obispo Coastkeeper, Los Padres ForestWatch, and the California Coastkeeper Alliance, disregards the county’s significant efforts to protect endangered species, including steelhead trout. For years, the county has worked on a comprehensive habitat conservation plan and carefully managed water releases to balance water supply and species protection. Additionally, projects like frog ponds and fish passage improvements, among other things, demonstrate the county’s proactive commitment to environmental stewardship.
Two years ago, Lopez Reservoir was at just 22 percent capacity due to prolonged drought. While Lopez is nearly full today, severe droughts are inevitable. This is why we must be careful, thoughtful, and precise with how we manage this resource, based on facts and fully vetted science. The recent decision makes short shrift of the years of work, elaborate study, and comprehensive analysis that the county has performed in order to “get it right” and to achieve both environmental successes for steelhead and other species while managing this important resource for the community.
colleges, night clubs, wineries, and restaurants from Orcutt to San Luis Obispo, participated in the festival from Oct. 21 to Nov 4. Jazz, music, and dancing were highlighted at 15 venues with kick-off parties, special musical guests, local favorite jazz bands, VIP events, and musical productions. Most of the events were free, with select ones being ticketed events.
Patrons of the event gave it a wholehearted “thumbs up.” Venue owners were very pleased at the response from the community. Many individuals were introduced to and fell in love with a genre of music that inspired fun, family, and unity over the universal language of music!
Speak up! Send us your views and opinion to letters@santamariasun.com.
We thank the (so many to list!) sponsors, promoters,
This lawsuit is an example of environmentalism going too far—where the drive to protect one species overrides the basic needs of an entire community. The lawsuit and recent ruling impose restrictions that destabilize the region’s water supply without guaranteeing better outcomes for the species. I support many local environmental causes. However, the nature of this litigation, the attorneys’ “scorched earth” tactics, and the willingness of some organizations to jeopardize our water system must be rebuked and condemned. Please reach out to these organizations to implore them to change their tactics and collaborate on sustainable solutions.
I remain committed to conserving our environment while advancing projects like regional water recycling, desalination, infrastructure investments, and conservation strategies that protect and enhance our water supply.
In the spirit of collaboration, I urge all parties to come together to develop a balanced solution that ensures the long-term water security of our SLO South County communities. m
Jimmy Paulding is SLO County’s 4th District supervisor. Send a response for publication by emailing it to letters@santamariasun.com.
venue owners, and community members for making this a successful festival that continues to develop and expand the regional jazz audience! We look forward to enhancements and additional partners for Jazz Jubilee Central Coast 2025!
Tara Hoffmann Santa Maria
Central Coast should heed the recent NorCal earthquake as a warning If the 7.0-magnitude earthquake 30 miles off the northern California shore was not a wake-up call for residents of San Luis Obispo, are they waiting for the one that could possibly strike 30 yards off the coast of San Luis Obispo? Seismologists have long warned that an overdue “Big One” (7.8 magnitude or higher), which California has not experienced since 1906, could happen at any point.
Since the initial application for Diablo Canyon Power Plant which was written 60 years ago— much seismic and geographic information has come to light. Notably there are four earthquake faults running under and near Diablo, the closest of which is a mere 1,000 yards away (the Shoreline fault). The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has failed to give any serious credence to multiple verifiable reports on the seismic danger. The NRC is in the process of considering an application by PG&E to continue operations of the plant for an additional 20 years. The recent earthquake also triggered a tsunami warning, and residents were advised to relocate “to higher ground.” Should a tsunami warning also be issued in San Luis Obispo after an earthquake, the existing evacuation routes would fail. Highway 101 backs up on an almost daily basis with either an accident, a fire, commuter traffic, and other events. Residents would not be able to leave the county. The SLO Emergency Evacuation Plan was devised decades ago before the population of San Luis Obispo County increased.
Any decision to extend the operation of Diablo Canyon Power Plant, whose nuclear waste is stored onsite, is totally unacceptable and dangerous. A large swath of the Central Coast could become uninhabitable.
Patricia Kohlen San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo County – New Times 805-546-8208 · advertising@newtimesslo.com
Northern Santa Barbara County - Sun 805-347-1968 · advertising@santamariasun.com
Old Town Lompoc is about to grow up. At the ripe age of 150 years old, the city is primed for a good ol’ fashioned growth spurt—from 45 feet to 50 feet tall.
Lompoc is aiming for increasing its housing density, both to comply with state law and some city goals. To do that, the Planning Commission suggests increasing building height limits in Old Town by 5 feet.
“In order to get the the capacity that was described in our element, the state wants tall buildings,” Lompoc Planning Manager Brian Halvorson said.
An extra 5 feet! Skyscrapers are coming to Lompoc, amirite?
Just kidding. Who are we building for? The people who were running around in 1874?
Apparently a 50-foot-tall building can hold five stories’ worth of floors, but a 45-foot-tall building can only hold three or four. So it seems like it’s the 45-foot limit that’s strange, but what do I know?
Every city should be increasing its downtown densities. It’s the place where that sort of thing make sense, even in Lompoc.
What doesn’t make sense is a nondisclosure agreement that prevents Santa Barbara County from understanding how a new technology will help prevent the Strauss Wind Energy Project from killing too many winged things.
The project that was late to the party when it came to managing the deaths of endangered or threatened species but got the go-ahead anyway went back to the county after a year of data collection. Guess what?
One golden eagle was killed in the past year. It was one of 47 winged creatures who bit the dust beneath those giant wind turbines outside of Lompoc. Not bad, I guess, considering that the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service predicted that 15 golden eagles would succumb to the spinning blades. But the project hit the threshold required to return to the county and explain itself and propose how it could create a future with fewer animal deaths in it.
“This facility has been operating for a year. It’s giant, almost 6,000 acres, 27 turbines—I think looking at the take after a year of 47, I’m sure there are some who would like that to be zero, as we see in a lot of mitigation requests for other sorts of projects, is not feasible,” 4th District Planning Commissioner Roy Reed said during the Dec. 11 commission hearing.
All in all, he thought, not bad at all. But, the project operator, BayWa, still has some prevention work to do and agreed to evaluate the Identiflight technology designed to identify golden eagles and stop the turbines so they can fly through unscathed. However, Energy Minerals and Compliance Deputy Director Errin Briggs told commissioners that “there is a veil of secrecy about the units at the site and how they’re performing” thanks to a nondisclosure agreement the company signed with BayWa, which blamed its proximity to Vandenberg Space Force Base The government, amirite?
“There’s a ton of data there [that] they are not sharing with us that we are just in the dark on,” Briggs said.
But I guess if Fish and Wildlife thought the turbines would kill 15 eagles and they only killed one, something’s working, right? m
The Canary is never planning to fly near the Strauss Wind Energy Project. Send alternative routes to canary@santamariasun.com.
BOOK YOUR AD BY: FEBRUARY 7
PUBLICATION DATE: FEBRUARY 13
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. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Don’t miss this tale as old as time. Presented by PCPA. Adapted from Disney’s beloved animated musical. Through Dec. 22 pcpa.org. Marian Theatre, 800 S. College Dr., 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, (805) 937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.
LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE: WEST COAST SWING Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45 p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m. (832) 884-8114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt. LOCAL BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB FINE ART EXHIBITION Come celebrate the fine art created by young members of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast. Through Dec. 31 (805) 598-9611. centralcoastkids.org. Santa Maria Town Center, 142 Town Center East, Santa Maria.
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.
VALLEY READS BOOK CLUB A monthly book club for patrons ages 18 and over. The book selection for December is The Push by Ashley Audrain. Registration required. Dec. 21 2-3 p.m. Free. cityofsantamaria.org/ services/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, (805) 925-0994.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
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.
NEW YEAR DISCO BALL PAINT AND SIP
Visit the Solvang studio for a fun-filled evening of painting your very own disco ball on a charming wooden round. Dec. 27 6-9 p.m. $55. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com/events/new-yearspaint-sip/. Art Spot on Wheels, 320 Alisal Road, unit 306B, Solvang.
THE VISUAL FEAST OF ROLAND PETERSEN Enjoy viewing a collection of Petersen’s vivid, colorful paintings. Through Jan. 5, 2025 elverhoj.org. Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, (805) 686-1211.
WINTER BREAK ART CAMP (AGES 7-12) Let the Art Spot help bring artistic expression into your child’s life during the school break. Dec. 23 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Dec. 30, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Dec. 31 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $85 per day or $355 for full five-day enrollment. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Art Spot on Wheels, 320 Alisal Road, unit 306B, Solvang.
WINTER CELEBRATION AT GALLERY
LOS OLIVOS Visit site or contact venue for more details on the show and its participating artists. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. through Jan. 31 (805) 688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
KITSCHY HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE Support your local vendors and hand crafters during Small Business Saturday. Dec. 23 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Lompoc Veterans Memorial Hall, 100 E. Locust Ave., Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
THE HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA Features a wintry yet ultimately heartwarming retelling of A Christmas Carol, which is followed by a fractured fairy tale opera parody and the Melodrama’s signature holiday vaudeville review. Through Dec. 31 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
MPROV TASTER Curious about improv? Want to give it a try? This one-hour class provides a taste of what unscripted theater is all about. Dec. 22 6-7 p.m. $5. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande, (805) 270-5523.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES
Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus
exposure to Los Angeles talent agents. All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
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.
CAPTURING THE MAGIC OF COWBOY COUNTRY An equestrian photography exhibit featuring authentic cowboys and cowgirls horse wrangling, galloping, and
CAPTIVATING COLLECTION
Gallery Los Olivos’ Winter Celebration group exhibit debuted in early December and will remain on display through Friday, Jan. 31, 2025. Without any thematic or style-related constraints, this showcase features a variety of art media from many of the gallery’s artists. Alongside several paintings, other featured media in the show include photography, sculpture, and ceramic art. Visit gallerylosolivos.com to find out more.
—Caleb
traversing the foothills of the majestic Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming in winter. Through Jan. 15, 2025 (805) 423-6427. The Photo Shop, 1027 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.
CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing (805) 8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
A CHRISTMAS STORY Jean Shepherd’s memoir of growing up in the Midwest in the 1940s follows 9-year-old Ralphie in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher, and even Santa Claus. Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. and WednesdaysSaturdays, 7-9 p.m. through Dec. 22 $20-$37. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 786-2440, slorep.org/.
CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/ foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/babyhandprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece. Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP: LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages.
Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
FREE DOCENT TOURS Gain a deeper understanding of the artwork on view with SLOMA’s new docent tours. Every Saturday, join trained guides for interactive and engaging tours of SLOMA’s current exhibitions. Saturdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Free.
(805) 543-8562. sloma.org/visit/tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
IMPROV COMEDY SHOWS AT THE BUNKER Come laugh out loud at The Bunker with the Central Coast Comedy Theater. Dec. 20, 6-8 p.m. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo. IMPROV COMEDY SHOWS AT THE HUB The show contents will be rotated among the group’s ensemble, house, and musical improv team casts, as well as stand-up and student shows. Fourth Friday of every month, 6 p.m. my805tix.com/. The Hub, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. (702) 335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.
JULIE ALPERT: STRANGE MAGIC As you step into Strange Magic, artist Julie Alpert’s first solo show in California, you’ll know one thing for certain: “Life is being lived.” Through March 2, 2025, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/ exhibition/julie-alpert-strange-magic/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. (805) 441-8257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.
THE NUTCRACKER: PRESENTED BY THE SLO MOVEMENT ARTS CENTER The SLO Movement Arts Center brings Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet to life with a whole new twist, while setting the story in San Luis Obispo. Come see this classic as never before, with heart, history, and the best dancing on the Central Coast.
Wiseblood
COURTESY IMAGE BY KAREN MCLEAN-MCGAW
Dec. 20 7:30-9:45 p.m. and Dec. 21 2-3:45 p.m. $28-$52. tickets.cuesta.edu. Harold J.
Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
ODDFELLOWS OPEN MIC Bring your music, improv, standup, magic, and dance talents. Each act gets five minutes. Audience votes for favorite. Third Saturday of every month, 7-9 p.m. (805) 234-0456. Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo.
ON THE EDGE COMEDY PRESENTS RICK
STORER Rick Storer, a beloved Central Coast comedian, will grace the stage of the Libertine in SLO. Visit site for tickets and more info on the upcoming show. Dec. 19, 8-10 p.m. $13. my805tix.com/. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337.
OPEN MIC COMEDY Sign-ups at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. Mondays, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 540-8300. saintsbarrel. com/event-calendar. Saints Barrel Wine Bar, 1021 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.
PAWSITIVELY FUNNY IMPROV SHOW
Join in on this improv show to benefit Novy’s Ark Dog Rescue through House of Bread’s Guest Bartender program. Dogs will be available on-site for adoption. Dec. 20, 4-6 p.m. Free. improvforgood.fun. House of Bread, 1025 Farmhouse Lane, San Luis Obispo, (805) 801-4853.
PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com). Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.
SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS
This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age. Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
SLO COMEDY
Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337, libertinebrewing.com.
VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors. To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter. net Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
WHITNEY BEDFORD: THE WINDOW The Window intricately bridges the natural, the historical, and the imagined. Through Feb. 16, 2025, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 5438562. sloma.org/exhibition/ whitney-bedford/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
YOUTH POTTERY CLASS Teens love this class. Learn handbuilding techniques and throwing on the potter’s wheel. Held every Friday after school. Fridays, 3:30-5 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
ME, MYSELF, AND MISER
The Great American Melodrama in Oceano presents its annual production of The Holiday Extravaganza, with performances set to run through Tuesday, Dec. 31. During the show’s traditional retelling of A Christmas Carol, Ebeneezer Scrooge (Billy Breed) is tormented by the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come (Tommy Krob). For tickets or more info, visit americanmelodrama.com.
—C.W.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
DEPRISE BRESCIA ART
GALLERY: ONGOING
DISPLAYS Features a large selection of encaustic art, sculpted paintings, art installations, acrylic palette knife paintings, digital art, glass, jewelry, stones, fossils, and a butterfly sculpture garden. ongoing DepriseBrescia.com. Deprise Brescia Art Gallery, 829 10th St., Paso Robles, (310) 621-7543.
HANDCRAFTED FOR THE HOLIDAYS This annual showcase celebrates some talented crafters and their oneof-a-kind creations. There’s something special for everyone on your list, no matter your taste or budget. Your purchase supports local artists and the venue’s mission of making art accessible to the public. Through Dec. 29 Free. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark. org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.
HOLIDAY GLOW AT
SENSORIO Wander through dazzling light displays and soak in the festive atmosphere as art, music, and holiday magic come together to create lasting memories.
Thursdays-Sundays, 4:30-9 p.m. through Jan. 6 $30, $45 or $110 for adults; $15, $22, or $85 for children. (805) 226-4287. sensoriopaso.com/sensoriocelebrations. Sensorio, 4380 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles.
SIP N’ SKETCH/SIP N’ PAINT
Bring your own supplies (or borrow some of our’s) and paint or sketch a themed live-model or still life under
the guidance of Studios resident artists. See website for the specific theme of the month. Your first glass of wine is included in price. Third Saturday of every month, 6-9 p.m. $20. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
ALLIE MOUNT: PRESENTATIONS View a captivating display of several floating wall sculptures by featured artist Allie Mount. Through Jan. 5, 2025 cruisecontrolcambria. com. Cruise Control Gallery, 1075 Main St., Cambria, (805) 503-3820.
ARTS-N-CRAFTS WEEKLY HAPPY HOUR
Learn how to watercolor, sew, knit, collage, and to create beautiful pieces in a relaxing and supportive environment. Occurs most Fridays. Fridays, 5 p.m. through Dec. 20 my805tix.com. Lor Coaching Studios, 525 Harbor St., Morro Bay.
CALL FOR ARTISTS: AQUARIUS 2025 WATERMEDIA EXHIBIT Aquarius 2025 presented by Central Coast Watercolor Society seeks California artists working in all watermedia for this prestigious annual juried exhibit. Submissions open Dec. 1 and close on Jan. 5. Exhibit runs Feb. 20 through Mar.31, 2025 at Art Center Morro Bay. See website for full info. Through Jan. 5, 2025 $25-$65. ccwsart.com/aquarius2025-prospectus. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 772-2504. COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint. com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.
COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays,
ARTS continued page 17
11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. (559) 799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.
DRAWING/PAINTING GROUP CCA holds
still life drawing/painting sessions in the Green Room at Cambria Center for the Arts. You will need to bring your own supplies, including an easel if you choose to paint. Fourth Thursday of every month, 1-3:30 p.m. through Feb. 25 $10. (805) 927-8190. cambriacenterforthearts.org.
Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.
FINE ART DRAWINGS BY DON
DOUBLEDEE AND LINDA BENCH Come be inspired by the drawings of animals, landscapes, and more each made with pen and Ink or Prisma Color Pencils. Through Dec. 29 Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FINE ART PAINTINGS AND SMALL
WORKS BY ARDELLA SWANBERG
Swanberg is a mixed media artist and teacher who has been painting and teaching on the Central Coast for almost 40 years. Jan. 1-29 Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FOCUS ON BIRDS: A GROUP WILDLIFE
PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW Come
discover what all our bird friends in the Estuary have been up to. Jan. 1-29
11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.
GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE
PRESENTS A CHRISTMAS CRAFTS
SHOW An all-gallery holiday craft show. Come discover the perfect gifts, art, crafts, ceramics, jewelry, housewares, and more. Through Dec. 29 Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE
PRESENTS MIXED MEDIA PAINTINGS BY BRIAN JOHNSON Stop by to see Johnson’s mixed media abstract art that incorporates inks, gels, and mirrors. Jan. 1-29 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
LARRY LE BRANE’S ART IN LOS OSOS: HARVEST AND HOLIDAY SEASON
Explore Larry Le Brane’s fused glass, sculpture, paintings and drawings at Costa Gallery this fall and winter. Owner Michael J. Costa features diverse work by 20 California artists. They wrap and ship gifts, too. Stop by for seasonal treats and surprises. Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 29 Free admission. (559) 799-9632. facebook.com/costagallery. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.
LIGHT AND SHADOWS: A PAINTING HOLIDAY GROUP SHOW A fine art paintings holiday group show featuring Joan Brown, Virginia Mack, Pat Newton, Atul Pande, Sandra Sanders, Jose Silva, and Jamey Tobey. Through Dec. 29 Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
MIXED MEDIA PAINTINGS BY BRIAN
JOHNSON Johnson creates mixed media abstract art using inks, gels, and mirrors. Jan. 1-29 Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
ONE NIGHT ONLY: A CHRISTMAS STORY
Will Ralphie make it to Christmas Day with his glasses and his hopes intact? Enjoy a screening of this beloved classic. Dec. 23 12-6:30 p.m. $10-$15. (805) 592-2701. Bay Theatre, 464 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.
THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. ongoing (805) 772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.
PROCREATE MONTHLY ARTIST
GROUP Learn the basic tools for using the iPad app, Procreate. Every month, group focuses on a different way to use Procreate, sometimes starting with a “how-to” video. Join a supportive community and navigate the digital world together. First Wednesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. through March 6 $10. (805) 9278190. cambriaarts.org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.
SLOFUNNY COMEDY SHOW AT THE MORRO BAY EAGLES Have a laugh with the SLOFunny Comedy Show. Lineups are subject to change, but always include amazing comedians. For ages 18 and up. Dec. 28 , 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Eagles Club, 2988 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 772-1384.
SPECIAL MATINEE OF GREMLINS Head to Morro Bay to watch the 1984 classic Gremlins The screening will be followed by a special Q-and-A with David Weisman. Dec. 21 1 p.m. Bay Theatre, 464 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.
UNCORK YOUR CREATIVITY: COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY Offering a unique opportunity to sip wine while painting stunning ocean-inspired landscapes. All materials included. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $60. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint.com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.
WINTER FAIRE AND JURIED CRAFT SHOW A collection of festive holiday treasures curated by the Morro Bay Art Association. Through Jan. 6, 2025 Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 772-2504, artcentermorrobay.org.
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CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: BOOK PAGE
NAPKIN RINGS Spruce up your dinner table with new napkin rings. All materials and supplies will be provided. Registration is required. For patrons ages 18 and older. Dec. 20 2-3:30 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY: DRIVETHROUGH LIGHT SHOW Bring your loved ones, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy the spirit of the season as you drive through miles of dazzling lights and festive scenes. Fridays, Saturdays, 6 p.m. through Dec. 24 elksrec.com. Elks Event Center, 4040 Highway 101, Santa Maria.
FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt. org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.
GIFT WRAPPING SELF SERVE Enjoy some cocoa and festive cheer while you wrap your holiday gifts for free. Everything will be supplied for you to wrap your gifts. Dec. 20 2-5 p.m. 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 (805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.
PHOTOS WITH SANTA CLAUS Visit the mall this holiday season to meet Santa Claus and take a photo with him. Contact mall management for dates and details. ongoing Santa Maria Town Center, 142 Town Center East, Santa Maria.
SANTA MARIA TOASTMASTERS Develop your public speaking skills at this club meeting. Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. (805) 570-0620. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.
TEACHWELL: TEACHER SUPPORT
GROUP (HYBRID) Please fill out online form prior to attending the first group. The host will follow up and provide you with the information needed to participate. Every other Thursday, 3-4:30 p.m. through Dec. 20 Free. youthwell.org. Online (Santa Barbara County), Visit website, Countywide.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
CANDLELIGHT TOURS Traverse the village of Solvang, accompanied by Christmas carols and an entertaining education about some Danish traditions and Solvang history. Guided by a costumed host, all tour participants will receive an LED candle to hold during the tour. Through Dec. 28 solvangusa.com/ things-to-do/solvang-julefest/. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
COPENHAGEN COUNTDOWN Guests are invited to count down to New Year’s in Denmark (3 p.m. Pacific) with live music, children’s activities and crafts, and vendors. Dec. 31 , 2-4 p.m. solvangusa.com/things-to-do/solvangjulefest/. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.
A COWBOY CHRISTMAS A familyfriendly experience hosted by Old West Events, in conjunction with SYV Horseback Rides. Features a petting zoo, visits with Santa, kids activities, hot cocoa, and more. Fridays, Saturdays. through Dec. 21 River View Park, 151 Sycamore Dr., Buellton.
JULEFEST DAYLIGHT TOURS Guests will stroll the streets of Solvang, lined with unique shops and delicious foods including the village’s iconic Danish pastries, during the morning tours led by a local Dane dressed in traditional folk garb. Through Dec. 28, 10 a.m. solvangusa.com/things-to-do/solvangjulefest/. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
NEW YEARS EVE AT THE MAVERICK SALOON Ring in the new year with a special performance by LiveWire followed by DJ Lex. One can expect a balloon drop, champagne toast, & an appetizer buffet. Dec. 31 , 8 p.m. $58. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, (805) 686-4785, mavericksaloon.org.
NISSER ADVENTURE A scavenger hunt for the mysterious Solvang Nisser (Christmas elves) who have hidden themselves throughout downtown Solvang. Hunters of all ages may stop by the Solvang Visitor Center for a list of clues, and return after finding the elves to receive a special Solvang keepsake. Through Jan. 5, 2025 Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
SANTA MEET-AND-GREETS AND PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES Don’t miss this chance to visit Santa in Solvang Park. Dec. 21 12-4 p.m. and Dec. 22 12-4 p.m. solvangusa.com. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.
SOLVANG JULEFEST 2024 Julefest returns with a full slate of holiday events happening across downtown Solvang. Check website for the annual tradition’s lineup. Through Jan. 5, 2025 solvangusa.com. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
SOLVANG TROLLEY CHRISTMAS LIGHT
TOUR Guests will tour the lights of the Santa Ynez Valley, passing through decorated neighborhoods and past illuminated storefronts, all aboard one of Solvang’s recognizable Trolleys. Thursdays-Sundays. through Dec. 29 Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
20, 21, 22, & 23
Photo by Lottie Keenan
TUESDAY, DECEMBER
FRIDAY, JANUARY 10
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11
BUNNY BUSINESS
Performances of A Christmas Story at the San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre (SLO REP) are scheduled to run through Sunday, Dec. 22. Attendees can look forward to seeing iconic moments from the classic 1983 comedy re-created live onstage during this annual SLO REP tradition. Call (805) 786-2440 or visit slorep.org for tickets or more info.
—C.W.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
LOMPOC VALLEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
OPEN HOUSE
The Lompoc Valley
Historical Society offers tours of the Fabing McKay Spanne House. Come learn a little bit about Lompoc’s history. Dec. 28 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Fabing McKay Spanne House, 207 N. L St., Lompoc, (805) 735-4626, lompochistory.org.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
AQUATIC BIRDS OF OSO FLACO LAKE
Join The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County for a short hike to explore the dune ecosystem and learn about our lakes’ aquatic birds. Dec. 21 , 9-11:30 a.m. Free. (805) 448-8012. sblandtrust.org.
Oso Flaco Lake, 3098 Oso Flaco Lake Road, 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.
DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing (805) 619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
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.
POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS
A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE
ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.
SANTA CLAUS: HISTORIC VILLAGE OF ARROYO GRANDE Santa is returning to the Village of Arroyo Grande for holiday visits, with special appearances by Mrs. Claus. Saturdays, Sundays, 1-4 p.m. and Tuesdays, Thursdays, 3-6 p.m. through Dec. 22 my805tix.com. Historical Society Heritage Garden, 126 S. Mason St., Arroyo Grande. SANTA IS COMING TO THE DISCOVERY CENTER Santa is coming to the Exploration Discovery Center in conjunction with Grover Beach Library. Dec. 21 10-midnight Free. (805) 473-1421. Exploration Discovery Center, 867 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 9059274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
BIRDS AND BOTANY MONTHLY WALK
AT SLO BOTANICAL GARDEN The Garden is excited to present a monthly bird walk series on the fourth Thursday of every month which explores the intersection of birds and botany. Fourth Thursday of every month, 8-11 a.m. $10 for Garden Members; $40 for general public. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA
Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.
FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour
San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and about the development of this area. Tours, led by docents, are free at 1:15 p.m Monday through Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Sundays, 2-3 p.m. and Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Free. (657) 465-9182. missionsanluisobispo.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK
Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free with $5 Garden Entry. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
HANUKKAH DOWNTOWN All members of the SLO community are invited to join. Visit website for updates and details on this year’s schedule of events. Dec. 25 -Jan. 2 jccslo.com/hanukkah.html. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo.
HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT
GROUP A safe place to share life experiences with those who have depression or have had and recovered from the devastating effects of depression. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
KROBAR LAST DITCH HOLIDAY MARKET Come shop for last ditch holiday gifts from a variety of local vendors. Food and drink will be for sale. Dec. 22 1-6 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. Krobar Craft Distillery, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD
SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A pro-recovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free
Tribute to Gordon Lightfoot and Sarah McLachlan
Joan Baez Tribute Concert: “The Lady from the House in the Tree”
SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+
AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)
support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. First Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE Stretch into yourself under the beautiful oaks and fresh air of this idyllic country setting. Suitable for all levels, these classes emphasize the gentler side of yoga and adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for five-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Tiber Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, San Luis Obispo.
METAPHYSICAL/SPIRITUALITY BOOK
CLUB A weekly book discussion, on a wide variety of titles from the general subject of metaphysics, spirituality, and comparative religion. By invitation. For more information, contact David Higgins, email: davidhiggins67@ gmail.com. Location revealed to those invited. Wednesdays Free. rationalmetaphysics.com. Private location, TBA, Location not to be published.
MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.
NATURE NIGHTS 2024 Come see what’s going on at Nature Nights, a holiday light festival featuring live music, local food vendors, and beverages like beer and wine. Also features a local artisan marketplace. Dec. 20-23 , 5-8 p.m. and Dec. 26-28 , 5-8 p.m. $28 for adults. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
PLUG-IN TO LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION
Get inspired by local action, connect with others, and discover more ways to get involved with the SLO Climate Coalition. Attend virtually or in-person. Sustainable snacks and childcare will be provided. Third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. Ludwick Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, San Luis Obispo.
Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A good core group of friends who gather to discuss topics we love/ care about from movies, outings, music, or being new to the area. We come from all walks of life and most importantly support each other. Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. sloqueer.groups.io/g/lezbfriends. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.
SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace for this outdoor class which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email before attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.
Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN
CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Fourth Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.
TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space
providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.
TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP
This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated emotional support group to be heard, share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like your own. Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.
DISCOVERY SATURDAYS Join the Coastal Discovery Center crew in discovering the wonders of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. There is no reservation required and these events are free and fun for all the family to experience. Dec. 21 , 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and Dec. 28 11 a.m.-3 p.m. (805) 801-0773. Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay, CA-1 and SLO San Simeon Road, San Simeon. MEET & GREET SANTA CLAUS Bring the whole family to this meet and greet event where children can share their wishes, snap festive photos, and experience the joy of the season. Dec. 20 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 225-5088. The Old Circle Inn Building, 875 Main Street, Morro Bay. WINTER SOLSTICE MARKET Celebrate this holiday season shopping from a collection of handmade and handpicked holiday gifts made by local artisans and creators. RSVP for tickets. Dec. 21 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. Noi’s Little Thai Village, 668 Santa Maria Avenue, Baywood-Los Osos, (805) 235-4868.
FOOD & DRINK
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays (805) 922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria. FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE INN Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
CHRISTMAS AT THE RANCH The Central Coast’s newest holiday tradition for the whole family is back for the second season. Features train rides, meet-ups with Santa, and more. Through Dec. 22 my805tix.com. Santa Margarita Ranch, 9000 Yerba Buena Ave, Santa Margarita.
HAMBLY LAVENDER FARM GUIDED
EXPERIENCE This one-hour walk about the farm immerses you in the processes of growing, harvesting, and drying this fragrant herb. Saturdays, Sundays, 10 a.m. my805tix.com. Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel.
HOLIDAY MAGIC AT CHARLES PADDOCK
ZOO The zookeepers have prepared gifts for the zoo’s animals, and Santa is visiting to help deliver them. Dec. 21 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Charles Paddock Zoo, 9100 Morro Rd., Atascadero.
THE PROCRASTINATORS HOLIDAY
BAZAAR The perfect opportunity to get your holiday shopping finished. Features more than 20 artists and makers, oracle readings, sweet treats, a wine bar, and Mr. Krampus. Dec. 21 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Santa Margarita Community Hall, 22501 I St., Santa Margarita, (805) 438-9981.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
CAMBRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Cambria Christmas Market, a dazzling winter wonderland, open most dates between late November and late December. Stroll through more than 3 million lights, meet Santa, explore an authentic German vendor market, and savor festive food and drink. Through Dec. 31, 5-9 p.m. $25-$40. (800) 966-6490. cambriachristmasmarket.com/. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.
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, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt. WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/ orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.
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 CHRISTMAS SLAY DRAG BRUNCH
Spend your Sunday at this drag brunch featuring Nova Cane and Daphne J. Visit site for tickets and more info. Dec. 22 , noon $28. La Casita, 1572 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
CONTEMPORARY CONSCIOUSNESS
Cruise Control Contemporary in Cambria presents Allie Mount: Presentations, a new solo exhibit slated to remain on display through Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. The show opened in early December and highlights several floating wall sculptures by Mount, whose works are loosely based on “the systems that carry our consciousness along,” according to press materials. For more info, visit cruisecontrolcambria.com.
—C.W.
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 AND FOOD BY LOBO
BUTCHER SHOP Check out live music every Friday night from a variety of artists at Steller’s Cellar in Old Orcutt. Dinner served by Lobo Butcher Shop between 5 and 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 5-9 p.m. Varies according to food options. (805) 623-5129. stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic.com/ Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria. NOON YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION
DANCE The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens Club presents this dance with the Riptide Big Band. Grant funding by the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County keeps the dances free to the public. Dec. 31 , 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (775) 813-5186. RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria. OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. (805) 478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.
SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
THIRD ANNUAL OLD TOWN COUNTRY
CHRISTMAS Listen to live acoustic performances from featured musicians (including Pryor Baird) at The Stockyard.
This is an all ages show. Visit site for tickets and more info. Dec. 21 2-7 p.m. $15. my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery,
241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, (805) 934-3777.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
BOYZ II MEN The vocal harmony group from Philadelphia best known for emotional ballads and a cappella harmonies. Dec. 21 , 8 p.m. $99-$159. Chumash Casino Resort, 3400 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez, (800) 248-6274, chumashcasino.com/entertainment.
LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
NIGHTLY LIGHT AND MUSIC SHOWS
This holiday-themed, choreographed light and music display, which is free to attend, entails two different shows that will alternate on the hour each evening. Through Jan. 5, 2025, 5, 6, 7, 8 & 9 p.m. solvangusa.com/things-to-do/solvangjulefest/. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.
WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
ALWAYS TINA AND START ME UP Enjoy live music from tributes to Tina Turner and the Rolling Stones. All ages welcome. Dec. 21 , 7 p.m. $18 in advance; $20 at the door. my805tix.com. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 810-0714.
KARAOKE AT COLD COAST BREWING CO. Pick out a song, bring your friends, and get ready to perform. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 819-0723, coldcoastbrewing.com.
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 FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD BIG BAND
CHRISTMAS CONCERT Enjoy a night of big band music and Christmas jazz. All donations go to the church. Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m. Free. Nipomo Community Presbyterian Church, 1235 N Thompson Rd., Arroyo Grande, (805) 219-0133, nipomopresbyterian.org.
THE PAN AMERICAN NUTCRACKER SUITE Created and co-arranged by Joe McCarthy and Vince Norman, the evening will feature original orchestrations performed by Joe McCarthy’s Latin
Grammy Award-winning New York Afro Bop Alliance Big Band that celebrates the brilliance of Tchaikovsky’s timeless masterpiece, “The Nutcracker Suite,” followed by big band compositions. Dec. 22 7-9:30 p.m. $34-$54. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/pan-americannutcracker-suite/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS WITH SURFIN’: A BEACH BOYS TRIBUTE A special night filled with Christmas magic and popular holiday tunes. Dec. 21 7:30-10:30 p.m. $39-$54. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/ shows/surfin-christmas/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
FAMILY FUN FRIDAYS: A FAMILY
DANCE CLASS Join this all ages event for a whirlwind of rhythm and laughter. There will be 45 minutes of line dancing followed by open dance time. Dec. 20 5:30-7 p.m. $10. nexusslo.com. Nexus SLO, 3845 S Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 904-7428.
FLAVOR PACKET Flavor Packet is a jazz combo that “stirs up an imaginative sound with its contemporary and world-beatinfluenced jazz music.” Dec. 20 6-9 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com. Krobar Craft Distillery, 10 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo. PALM STREET POINSETTIAS The Ah Louis Store is thrilled to bring caroling to the corner of Chorro and Palm Street every Saturday this holiday season. Saturdays, 4-7 p.m. through Dec. 21 Ah Louis Store, 800 Palm St., San Luis Obispo.
RHAPSODY IN BLUE Ring in the New Year with the SLO Symphony and pianist Maxim Lando, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Dec. 31 7:30 p.m. (805) 543-3533. slosymphony. org/calendar/. Cal Poly Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. SAN LUIS OBISPO MASTER CHORALE PRESENTS “HOLIDAY FESTIVAL” Join in with the San Luis Obispo Master Chorale to perform the great choruses from Handel. There will also be a sing-along “Messiah.” Visit the site for more info. Dec. 21 7-9:30 p.m. $10-$30. (805) 756-4849. pacslo.org. Cal Poly Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. WINTER SOLSTICE: DRUM CIRCLE AND CELEBRATION An event to honor the quiet magic of winter and the return of sunlight and longer days. Embrace the warmth of community in a safe, welcoming space, surrounded by winter’s beauty and breathtaking views at the ranch. Dec. 21 , 2-4 p.m. my805tix.com. Eagles Landing Ranch, 4615 Prefumo Canyon Road, San Luis Obispo. m
Arts
ARTS BRIEFS
Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast holds annual youth art exhibit
A showcase of art by young members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast opened at the Santa Maria Town Center on Dec. 13 and is scheduled to remain on display through the end of December.
Every year, the local Boys & Girls Clubs organization hosts activities related to the National Fine Arts Program at each of its club sites across San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties—namely in San Luis Obispo, Atascadero, Paso Robles, Creston, Shandon, Santa Maria, and Guadalupe. As part of the program, young participants have their art judged and put on display for the public in an annual exhibit.
Artworks on display in the mall showcase were arranged according to age level and medium. The featured categories of this year’s local Boys & Girls Clubs showcase are monochromatic drawing, multicolored drawing, pastel, watercolor, oil or acrylic, printmaking, mixed media, and collage.
Since the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast encompasses cities in both San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, the group has held two separate displays of contest participants’ artworks in past years, with one exhibit location chosen in each county. Similar to the program’s 2023 iteration, this year’s display will showcase contest submissions from participants that reside in both counties under one roof in Santa Maria, at the city’s mall.
For more info on the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast and its youth exhibition, visit centralcoastkids.org.
Floral design students and teachers from Santa Maria and Nipomo contribute to Rose Parade
On Dec. 7, more than 100 floral design and advanced floral design students and teachers from Santa Maria High School, Pioneer Valley High School, and Nipomo High School’s FFA programs joined forces with Kiwanis International and the Phoenix Decorating Company to help prepare floats for this year’s Rose Parade in Pasadena, aka the Pasadena Tournament of Roses.
At the decorating company’s facilities in Irwindale prior to the parade (slated for Jan. 1, 2025), the participating students and teachers were part of a team of more than 200 volunteers, who spent about seven hours meticulously preparing flowers, creating designs, and contributing to float decorations.
“I was blown away by the grand scale of the floats and the incredible attention to detail in every component,” participating student Jenna Ramirez said in press materials. “It was fun working with other floral design students, and I’m proud of the work our team contributed.” m
On the marquee
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
There’ll be church pews and stacking chairs but no standing room for guests of an intimate concert, set to bring a handful of rock, roots, and country acts to Stone Pine Hall in late December.
With a capacity limit under 100, the historic building—previously a First Church of Christ Scientist Reading Room—is hosting the show to support the ongoing efforts to restore the Lompoc Theatre.
Plans to transform the 1927-established landmark into a new arts and education center have been in the works since 2012, when the Lompoc Theatre Project (LTP) was formed.
“The auditorium won’t be done until 2027, but
… our New Year’s resolution is by the end of 2025 to have regular live performances on the Lompoc Theatre stage for the first time in 60 years,” LTP Executive Director Mark Herrier told the Sun
Between the early ’70s and early ’90s, the venue was primarily used as a movie theater. Herrier, a filmmaker and actor best known for his role as Billy in Porky’s, has fond memories of seeing Saturday matinees there during his childhood.
The Lompoc native said his desire to become an actor stemmed from both his screen and stage outings at the Lompoc Theatre, which he hopes will inspire kids and teens to embrace the arts once it reopens.
“It’s going to provide jobs, and a lot of those jobs are going to be for teenagers and youngsters interested in the arts,” said Herrier, who added that the LTP’s vision for the venue includes mentorship and internship opportunities for youth.
One of the upcoming LTP fundraiser’s featured acts spoke to the Sun about how her childhood experiences were essential as a foundation for her now prolific music career.
Hall monitor
Tickets to Stone Pine Hall’s upcoming concert fundraiser (Saturday, Dec. 28, at 7 p.m.) to support the Lompoc Theatre Project are available in advance at lompoctheatre.org. Stone Pine Hall is located at 210 S. H St., Lompoc.
“The thing that drew me to music was a recording mic,” rockabilly and roots artist Rosie Flores said. “My dad started recording me and my brother on the kitchen table with a two-track machine starting when I was 6 years old. … I loved singing.”
Known for her solo career and collaborative efforts, Flores got her first experience fronting a live band not long after her brother formed a rock group of his own with some high school buddies.
“His band used to practice in the garage, which was a wall away from my bedroom. … I would just sing along with their band while I was inside my bedroom,” Flores recalled. “They finally said, ‘You want to come out front and sing with us.’ … That was the first time I ever sang in front of a band, and I got hooked.”
On Dec. 28, Flores will ring in the New Year with opening act Grey DeLisle—a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter also widely known for her career in voice acting—at Stone Pine Hall during the LTP fundraiser. Flores will be joined by singer and multi-instrumentalist Eleanor Whitmore and engineer and bassist Dusty Wakeman during her set, while DeLisle will be backed by rock trio Eddie Clendening and the Blue Ribbon Boys.
Although the Lompoc Theatre’s fully realized auditorium space is still a few years away from fruition, LTP’s goal for 2025 to complete the venue’s stage will allow for intimate concerts where the audience will sit onstage with the featured acts as they perform.
“We’re sort of patterning it after the Continental Club … a famous venue in Austin,” Herrier said, and not coincidentally, a favorite of Rosie Flores’, he added.
“The goal is to have a space for really talented artists to do their sets in a very intimate setting,” Herrier said. “We hope to do them quarterly going forward. Whether we’re able to do that or not, we’ll see, but that’s the goal.” m
Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood won’t cast the first stone. Send comments to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.
COURTESY IMAGE BY SHANDON BOYS & GIRLS CLUB MEMBER BETSAIDA (AGE 13)
PASSION PROJECT: Thanks to ongoing fundraising efforts and volunteer work, Lompoc Theatre Project Executive Director Mark Herrier (center) said, the Lompoc Theatre’s main stage should be restored and performance-ready by the end of 2025. The nonprofit has its sights on 2027 for the full auditorium’s completion.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KENNY KLEIN
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE STONE PINE SESSIONS
THE NAME GAME: “The Rockabilly Filly” and “Chick with the Pick” are among the monikers Rosie Flores has garnered throughout her music career, which spans more than four decades.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE STONE PINE SESSIONS
VOCAL CHAMELEON: Grammy Award-winning singersongwriter Grey DeLisle is also a prolific voice actor, who’s lent her voice to several popular animated titles. Her most famous roles include Vicky in The Fairly OddParents and Mandy in The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy
Jaune Collet-Serra (Orphan, Unknown, NonStop) directs this screenplay by T.J. Fixman about a mysterious terrorist known only as Traveler (Justin Bateman) who blackmails LAX TSA agent Ethan Kopek (Taron Egerton) into allowing a dangerous suitcase through security and onto a Christmas Day flight. If he doesn’t, Traveler promises to kill Ethan’s pregnant girlfriend, Nora (Sofia Carson). (119 min.)
Glen: Christmas terrorists? A hero scrambling to save the day? A romantic partner in peril? Cheeky jokes colliding with action sequences? Carry-On clearly wants to be Die Hard, but it’s not. Instead, it’s an implausible and byzantine story about a conspiracy to pass an unpopular piece of legislation by staging a terrorist attack using Russian-made Novichok nerve agent to target the bill’s author, Congresswoman Grace Turner (Jill Flint). Her bill would benefit arms dealers, so counterintuitively, the gunrunners think murdering her in a faked Russian terrorist attack will generate sympathy and make her bill pass instead, bringing them a windfall. Just writing that nonsense was painful.
CARRY-ON
failed cop academy and seems stuck in the rut of a boring day-to-day job with TSA, while his girlfriend holds a position of more importance and would love to see Kopek follow a dream instead of sitting in the humdrum of day-today normalcy. It’s banal bullshit, but the film tries in earnest to keep its audience interested. Unfortunately, I just kept seeing plot holes left and right, but at least in the end (spoiler alert) the good guy prevails. It’s not a complete waste of time, but I recommend hitting the eggnog before you press play. This one benefits from a fuzzy sense of reality.
What’s it rated? PG-13
What’s it worth, Anna?
Stream it
What’s it worth, Glen?
Stream it
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Anna: No one is more willing to cozy up and watch terribly great Christmas movies than me, but I would call this Christmas-adjacent. While there may be baubles baubling and bells a-ring-ching-chingalinging, there isn’t much Christmas here. It’s the wrapping paper on the gift of a pretty terrible action rom-com. Kopek
THE DAY OF THE JACKAL
What’s it rated? TV-MA
When? 2024
Where’s it showing? Peacock
Ronan Bennett (Public Enemies Top Boy Gunpowder) created this spy thriller loosely based on Frederick Forsyth’s 1971 novel of the same name. It follows The Jackal (Eddie Redmayne), a ruthless assassin, and Bianca Pullman (Lashana Lynch), the relentless intelligence officer determined to catch him. It’s quickly established that The Jackal is a preternaturally skilled marksman with a very specialized custom-made weapon, which Pullman believes was made by underground Irish gunsmith Norman Stoke (Richard Dormer), offering her a lead. The Jackal’s current target is ultra-rich tech bro Ulle Dag Charles (Khalid Abdalla), who’s preparing to release a computer program called River, which will make transparent how money flows through society, ending up in the hands of the rich at the expense of everyone else. A cabal of richie-riches led by Timothy Winthorp (Charles Dance) arranges to pay The Jackal $10 million if he can assassinate Ulle Dag before he releases River. What follows is a smartly written cat-and-mouse with a romantic side story about The Jackal’s Spanish wife, Nuria (Úrsula Corberó), who’s become suspicious of the husband
Glen: Spoiler alert, eh? Was the hero’s triumph ever in doubt? Ethan’s cop-dreams backstory adds a little interest to the proceedings. Can he redeem himself, save the day, and be found worthy to wear a badge. LAPD Detective Elena Cole (Danielle Deadwyler) hears about the Novichok on a wiretap and learns Ethan tried to contact the police, so she shows up and butts heads with Ethan. Will she realize Ethan’s worth? It’s all very predictable. Maybe you and I are missing something because this film has—to my mind—an improbably high critics score of 86 percent fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. I don’t get the appeal. Maybe it’s because Bateman is playing against type, or maybe critics see something in Egerton’s performance that I’m missing. It’s all rote, by-the-numbers, phone-it-in, standardissue, straight-to-video action pablum, but hey,
if you have Netflix and a couple of hours to burn, and don’t mind plot holes big enough to drive a Mack Truck through, settle in and enjoy this Die Hard-lite.
Anna: Bateman has proven himself to be a worthy on-screen bad guy in recent years, but we barely get to interact with him beyond his voice via earbud for at least half of the film. It all is just so ridiculous, and I’m OK with ridiculous, but this just didn’t hit for me. I’ll
BLACK DOVES
What’s it rated? TV-MA
When? 2024
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Created by Joe Barton (The Lazarus Project Giri/Haji ), Black Doves is a compelling action thriller about international espionage and political intrigue. The storyline, as it moves back and forth in time to offer the characters’ backstories that give context to their present actions, can feel unduly complicated, but if you stick with it, you’re rewarded with a mystery thriller that’s fun to untangle.
choose Die Hard anytime, all the time over this. The actors did fine, the direction was fine, but the story was just plain unbelievable. Maybe folks are more forgiving than we are at the holidays, but this one isn’t going to make its way into our yearly rotation, I can guarantee that. m
New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
she knows as “Charles Calthrop.” Redmayne is terrific as the morally complex killer, whose backstory helps explain his casual callousness. (10 approximately 1-hour episodes)
—Glen
The story centers on Helen Webb (Keira Knightley), who’s married to British Secretary of State for Defense Wallace Webb (Andrew Buchan), who’s completely unaware his wife is a Black Dove, a spy for a clandestine organization. He also doesn’t know Helen has been carrying on an affair with Jason Davies (Andrew Koji), who’s murdered, leading Helen’s handler, Reed (Sarah Lancashire), to bring in a “triggerman,” Sam Young (Ben Whishaw), to protect Helen and investigate Jason’s murder.
Sam’s backstory is also fascinating, and along the way, we meet two other assassins, Williams (Ella Lily Hyland) and Eleanor (Gabrielle Creevy), who add some humor. Knightly and Whishaw are
episodes) m —Glen
SEE TARON RUN: Taron Egerton stars as low-level TSA agent Ethan Kopek, who’s trying to stop a terrorist attack at LAX on Christmas Day, in Carry-On, streaming on Netflix.
both terrific as tragic figures caught up in a horrible game. The six-part series has already been renewed for a second season, and I’m all in. (six 52- to 56-min.
KILLER ELITE: Eddie Redmayne stars as The Jackal, an assassin for hire who’s a master of disguise and an expert marksman, in The Day of the Jackal, streaming on Peacock.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PEACOCK
PHOTO COURTESY
THRILLER: (Left to right) Triggerman Sam Young (Ben Whishaw), spy Helen Webb (Keira Knightley), and Helen’s handler, Reed (Sarah Lancashire), are wrapped up in international intrigue, in Black Doves, streaming on Netflix.
Heartbreak grape
BY CHERISH WHYTE
The following lines between characters Maya and Miles in the 2004 movie Sideways touched viewers and even the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences when the group presented an Oscar for best adapted screenplay to co-writers Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor: Maya: “Why are you so into pinot? I mean, it’s like a thing with you.”
Miles: “I don’t know. It’s a hard grape to grow. As you know, right? It’s thin-skinned, temperamental, ripens early. … It’s not a survivor like cabernet, which can just grow anywhere and thrive even when it’s neglected. No, pinot needs constant care and attention. … And, in fact, it can only grow in these really specific little tucked-away corners of the world. And only the most patient and nurturing of growers can do it, really; only somebody who really takes the time to understand pinot’s potential can then coax it into its fullest expression. And, then, I mean, oh, its flavors. They’re just the most haunting and
brilliant and thrilling and subtle and ancient on the planet.”
The movie, directed by Payne and based on Rex Pickett’s novel of the same name, used metaphor, humor, and gorgeous scenery from Santa Barbara County as it followed two disillusioned men on a wine-tasting trip. It also made household names of its actors: Paul Giamatti, Thomas Haden Church, Virginia Madsen, and Sandra Oh.
An unforeseen impact of the movie, however, was the “Sideways effect,” which longtime journalists Kirk and Mira Advani Honeycutt of Paso Robles detail in their new book Sideways Uncorked, which was released in November.
The book is a celebration of the movie’s 20th anniversary and includes interviews with all the players—from the cast and crew to the Central Coast winemakers and restaurateurs who benefitted from the limelight.
“Miles’ speech about wine was in Rex’s novel, at least most of it … [but] it does contain many of
POURS:
in Arroyo Grande.
For wine and film aficionados
Uncorked’s recommendations for exceptional
Order copies of Sideways Uncorked via publisher Applause Theatre & Cinema Books at applausebooks.com and meet authors Kirk and Mira Advani Honeycutt at upcoming book-signing events in Paso Robles—Dec. 21, 1 to 3:30 p.m., at Spare Time Books; Dec. 21, 4 to 8 p.m., at Tudor Wines; Dec. 27, 1 to
and Dec. 28, noon to 3 p.m., at Cass Winery.
For more information on the 25th annual World of Pinot Noir event in Santa Barbara, Feb. 27 to March 1, visit worldofpinotnoir.com.
my own thoughts about wine,” said Payne, who currently circulates between Los Angeles; Omaha, Nebraska; and Athens, Greece. “Before the movie was released, I never imagined that viewers would appreciate that scene so much. It’s a love scene, I guess, but all they’re talking about is wine.
“I was quite touched that the Honeycutts wanted to write the book and approached it so thoroughly and thoughtfully. Those of us who worked on the movie had a really good time, and I always thought that that’s one of the reasons people like the movie—the good times come through the screen. So, I’m very happy that someone has taken the time to chronicle both the experience and the lovely aftermath.”
Pinot noir, French for “black pine” and most famously associated with the country’s Burgundy region, gets its name from the grape’s tightly clustered, pine-cone-shaped bunches. Its thin skin and tight clusters make it particularly fragile and susceptible to fungus, hence the nickname “heartbreak grape.”
In the United States, several regions of California as well as Oregon’s Willamette Valley provide the perfect growing environment. While the World of Pinot Noir, a nonprofit trade organization founded by Brian Talley and the late Archie McLaren in 2001, helped kickstart the grape’s popularity domestically, the movie catapulted it.
“Among American oenophiles, pinot noir was certainly known and appreciated before the World of Pinot Noir threw a spotlight on the variety,” said Kirk, a former chief film critic for The Hollywood Reporter and Los Angeles Daily News. “But the varietal exploded because of the movie. That’s how popular culture works. The movie brought pinot into the mainstream. … Suddenly— from the release of the movie in October 2004 to the Oscars in February 2005—everyone, even non-wine drinkers, knew about pinot noir. It was that quick. Nothing like it has ever happened in the wine world.”
COURTESY PHOTO BY ZW IMAGES
SUGGESTED
Sideways
pinot noir on the Central Coast range from Cutruzzola in Cambria to Talley and Laetitia
EATS continued page 26
4 pm, Peachy Canyon Winery;
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HONEYCUTTS
CULT CLASSIC REVISITED: Alexander Payne, right, director and co-writer of the movie Sideways, joins Kirk and Mira Advani Honeycutt, authors of Sideways Uncorked, at their book launch in October at the Culinary Institute of America at Copia in Napa.
Talley, owner and vintner of Talley Vineyards in Arroyo Grande, concurs.
“Sideways had a huge impact on pinot noir in California and especially the Central Coast,” he said. “Plus, I think it’s the best film about wine ever made.”
The Honeycutts’ new book, Talley said, renews attention on the film and some of the producers who inspired it.
In the book, the Honeycutts wrote: “Not too long after Sideways’ box-office success and its rampage through the 2004/2005 awards season, journalists began using the phrase ‘the Sideways effect.’ According to California’s Wine Institute, U.S. supermarket sales of pinot noir jumped 18 percent in less than a year following the film’s release.”
The authors continued: “Sideways had become a cultural phenomenon. Its impact was local [on] the Santa Barbara wine and hospitality community, regional in its influence on the California wine industry, and national as a hugely popular comedy as well as an unexpected guide to wine drinking in North America and, for that matter, the world.”
Some filmgoers, they added, even went out and got a Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 1 crash course in wine.
While the majority of Sideways Uncorked allows readers to relive the movie, interspersed with behind-the-scenes trivia and photographs, the authors also throw in their recommendations for top pinots worldwide.
“We have … curated a list of pinots from eight California AVAs, Willamette Valley, New Zealand, and Burgundy, with chapters dedicated to each
region,” said Mira, the wine editor at 13 Stars Media and writer for several industry publications.
From the San Luis Obispo Coast American Viticultural Area, she added, “we have over a dozen wines included in the book plus interviews with various Central Coast winemakers.”
One recommendation is Talley’s iconic Rosemary’s pinot, vintages of which have achieved 98-point scores in Wine Advocate
“I have always considered pinot noir to be the grape variety that celebrates both place and the role of the farmer,” Talley said. “My favorite examples are generally estate grown so that the winegrower has complete control of viticultural and winemaking practices, from the planting and farming of the vineyard through the bottling of the finished wine.
“At its very best, pinot noir is ethereal, mysterious, and delicious.” m
Contributor Cherish Whyte enjoyed the Honeycutts’ homage to Sideways. She’ll be reading Pickett’s novel next at cwhyte@newtimesslo.com.
BY THE SEASHORE: San Luis Obispo Coast AVA vineyards, such as Spanish Springs near Pismo Beach, produce wines with “razor-sharp minerality” due to marine fossil-enriched soil, write Kirk and Mira Advani Honeycutt in Sideways Uncorked
with
spacious walk-in shower and double sink vanity. The kitchen has granite counter tops, and stainless steel cook top and sink. As if that wasn’t enough–the family room allows for emphasis on entertaining guests, offering a wet bar, wood burning stove, and a bathroom with a shower. Exiting through slider to the sizable backyard, you will be impressed– from the concrete patio to the fruit trees and raised garden beds, the opportunities are endless. Also walking distance to schools! (388CR) $687,990
Listing Agent - Regina Cosma, Lic. 01703042, 805-310-8180
for emphasis on entertaining guests, offering a wet bar, wood burning stove, and a bathroom with a shower. Exiting through slider to the sizable backyard, you will be impressed– from the concrete patio to the fruit trees and raised garden beds, the opportunities are endless. Also walking distance to schools! (388CR) $687,990
Listing Agent - Regina Cosma, Lic. 01703042, 805-310-8180
HELP WANTED
Advertising Sales Pro Wanted
The Sun, Santa Maria’s premier community newspaper is expanding its sales department. The Sun is owned by the New Times Media Group which includes its sister paper New Times in SLO. The Sun is a proud, active member of the Santa Maria community contributing comprehensive local news, and entertainment coverage for northern Santa Barbara County. We are seeking energetic and self-motivated individuals looking for a career in advertising sales. As part of The Sun team, you can build a career in an exciting industry, enjoy a small office atmosphere, a wonderful work environment and be a part of a company that makes a difference in our community. These are full time positions. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and reliable automobile. Sales experience preferred. Competitive compensation base on your sales experience and health benefits included. Please send cover letter and resume to crucker@newtimesslo.com
SLO. The Sun is a proud, active member of the Santa Maria community contributing comprehensive local news, and entertainment coverage for northern Santa Barbara County. We are seeking energetic and self-motivated individuals looking for a career in advertising sales. As part of The Sun team, you can build a career in an
