Santa Ynez nonprofit Muffin Music brings performances, education to local schools [22]
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Death of a Unicorn: gory comedy [24]
Persistence paid off for Sylvia Jiang. At 4 years old, she wanted to play piano, but her mom thought sitting at the instrument for hours on end wouldn’t be a good fit. The young Jiang kept asking until she got the lessons she dreamed of. Now a professional piano instructor and concert soloist, Jiang is bringing her passion to Central Coast schoolchildren through the nonprofit Muffin Music. Co-founder and composer Davis Reinhart, who grew up in the Santa Ynez Valley, and Jiang will hold performances and educational workshops for students in Buellton, Solvang, Lompoc, and Santa Maria later this month. For this week’s cover, Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood talks with the dreamers of the dreams behind Muffin Music [22]. Also this week, read about the the man who flew a drone over Vandenberg [4]; CenCal Health’s improved health services and partnerships [6]; and what Naughty Oak has in store on its menu and its walls [25]
HOUSES OF THE HOLY:
Two upcoming concerts will showcase performances from trumpeter Davis Reinhart and pianist Sylvia Jiang. Both will be held at local churches in Santa Maria and Santa Ynez.
• On March 25, Equal Pay Day—10 years after the passage of the Fair Pay Act—Sen. Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara) announced new legislation to bolster the Fair Pay Act and provide workers with the opportunity to earn their “fair share,” according to the senator’s office. Specifically, SB 642 seeks to expand on Limón’s previous legislation, SB 1162 (2021), by defining an appropriate pay range on job postings to provide a clearer picture of what a potential employee may earn. The bill also seeks to strengthen the Fair Pay Act by clarifying what constitutes “wages,” providing workers with additional time to recover lost wages, and modernizes the law to include all workers. “The Golden State has one of the lowest wage gaps in the country, with women earning 87 cents on the dollar, thanks in part to our strong equal pay laws, but more must be done to ensure workers are able to earn what they are truly owed,” Limón said in a statement. “According to the National Women’s Law Center, California women lose more than $350,000 over a 40-year career to the wage gap—that is money for groceries, child care, rent, and so much more. The state must do more to support workers, put money they earned back into their pockets, and finally deliver true pay equity.” Since 2015, California has passed some of the nation’s strongest pay laws, according to Limón’s office. Despite this, women continue to earn less than their male counterparts. According to the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, women make less in every job sector, including managerial roles, nursing, and business and finance. With SB 642, California has an opportunity to move one step closer to closing the wage gap, Limón said in the statement.
• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and California’s former secretary of state, led 14 Democratic senators in calling on President Donald Trump to revoke his illegal anti-voter executive order that would disenfranchise millions of Americans, according to a March 28 statement from the senator’s office. The League of Women Voters of the U.S. also decried the executive order, calling it an attempt to silence voters and a threat to Americans’ freedom to vote. In a March 31 statement, Marcia Johnson , League chief counsel, said, “The president can’t unilaterally change election law. This order is not only an attack on American voters’ fundamental freedom to vote, it is also plainly unlawful. The League is committed to working with our partners and legal advocates to pursue all avenues in fighting back against this dangerous order, and we will use every tool at our disposal to defend voters from unjust restrictions on their freedom to vote.” In a letter signed by Padilla and 14 other senators, the lawmakers said that Trump’s executive order would likely disenfranchise millions of eligible voters by creating barriers to voting and “inviting chaos into state voter registration processes”—including by sharing Americans’ data with the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). “Under the Constitution and existing law, this executive order cannot be implemented,” the senators wrote to the president. The proof of citizenship requirements in the executive order would restrict the right to vote for millions of Americans given the burden it creates to obtain these documents. Nearly half of all American citizens don’t have valid passports, and millions more have a legal name that differs from other governmentissued documents, including up to 69 million married women whose birth certificates no longer match their legal name, according to Padilla’s office. “Voting by noncitizens is already a federal crime and, despite unsubstantiated claims to the contrary, is extremely rare. By interjecting DOGE into the process, this order would interfere with states’ maintenance of voter registration lists, compromising voters’ personal information,” the letter stated. m
Man who flew drone over Vandenberg pleads guilty
A Chinese national who took photographs of Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB) with a drone pleaded guilty in March to violating the national defense airspace.
According to a plea deal reached with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Yinpiao Zhou—a Chinese citizen and lawful permanent resident of the United States—was sentenced to time served in prison (four months), one year of probation, a $200 fine, and a $25 special assessment in exchange for pleading guilty to one misdemeanor count of “knowingly or willfully” violating the national defense airspace.
The court documents state that Zhou could potentially be deported as a result.
“If defendant is not a United States citizen, the conviction in this case may subject defendant to: removal, also known as deportation,” the plea deal states, “which may, under some circumstances, be mandatory; denial of citizenship; and denial of admission to the United States in the future.”
On Nov. 30, 2024, Zhou flew a drone around Vandenberg, an area where civil aircraft is restricted or prohibited. Court documents state that he launched the drone from Ocean Park near Vandenberg, flew it about 1.8 miles over the base, and took photographs of the base.
Drone detection systems detected the aircraft inside the base’s restricted airspace and traveled to the park where they contacted Zhou and another person who was traveling with him, court documents state. He initially denied it, but “then revealed that he had the drone inside of his jacket.”
Zhou knew Vandenberg’s space was restricted, and he downloaded software allowing his drone to fly in places where it would otherwise be prohibited, the court documents state.
According to an affidavit from FBI Special Agent Mike Wood, Zhou flew the drone over the base for almost an hour.
“Notably, on that same day … a sensitive payload developed for the National Reconnaissance Office had been launched to orbit by a space contractor,” Wood said in the affidavit.
A search of Zhou’s cellphone showed that he had Googled the phrase “‘Vandenberg Space Force Base Drone Rules’ and messaged with another person about hacking his drone to allow it to fly higher than it could otherwise,” the affidavit said. “Zhou further admitted that he knew taking photographs of the space contractor facility at VSFB was ‘probably not a good idea.’”
The 39-year-old Brentwood resident was arrested in December at the San Francisco International Airport as he was boarding a flight to China, according to December press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
“The security of our nation is of paramount importance, and my office will continue to promote the safety of our nation’s military personnel and facilities,” United States Attorney Marin Estrada said in the release.
—Camillia Lanham
County Animal Services launches livestock registry to help with wildfire evacuations
Cattle, horses, pigs, llamas, and ostriches were listed during a recent town hall in Solvang dedicated to wildfire preparation and evacuation protocols across the Santa Ynez Valley.
Sarah Aguilar, Santa Barbara County Animal Services director, was among the March 31 panel’s featured speakers, alongside 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann, county fire officials, and elected officials from Solvang and Buellton. While many speakers discussed the possibility of forming a valley-wide wildfire protection plan in the future, Aguilar said that residents can immediately take one step toward strengthening current wildfire protection efforts by using Animal Services’ first livestock registry, which the county launched on April 1.
“Preparedness for large animals in fires is not just about saving the animals’ lives, but it also
has an impact on humans as well and potential for human tragedy,” Aguilar said. “Time that is spent trying to rescue unplanned-for animals during disaster is time that could be spent saving humans or households [or] buildings.”
Residents can use the livestock registry to provide the county with info about what kinds of animals and how many animals they own partly to help smooth out evacuation or rescue efforts during a future emergency. The registry includes a preferred evacuation plan column, in which users can list themselves as able to self-evacuate or in need of evacuation assistance.
“If we have information where we know there’s animals on your property—maybe you’re at work, [or] maybe you need assistance—we can contact you directly and say, ‘Do you have a plan? Do you need help? We know you have 12 horses or 14 llamas or whatever you have,’” Aguilar said. “We want to get them out ahead of fires, we don’t want to be clogging up roadways for fire trucks and other first responders to get in.”
Another good way for ranchers and other animal owners to prepare for wildfire emergencies is to practice an evacuation plan after the sun goes down, Aguilar said.
“If you have a large animal, go out at night and load it into a trailer and figure out how you’re going to get out. Most of the time, your animals are used to loading maybe during the day when everything’s peaceful and quiet. [But] disaster occurs at any time,” Aguilar said. “If you can safely load and get out of your property at night, in the dark, your chances of getting out in the daylight are much greater and you’ll have some understanding of what it may be like under very smoky or hazy conditions; wet conditions; what lights you might need; access challenges, etc.”
Buellton Mayor David Silva said it’s easy to overlook the importance of getting the seemingly minute details right ahead of a natural disaster, wildfire-related or not, especially when relying on cellphones and other technology—pointing to cases where telecommunications and internet fail during an emergency. Aguilar proposed that the county also send out a mailer to inform residents about the livestock registry with an option to register their info by mail instead.
“We are often dealing with emergencies that are also on a much smaller scale that can be very cumbersome without us having the proper knowledge,” Silva told meeting attendees. “What happens, though, is we assume the resources will be made available by our own kind of dependency upon technology. … You being here today is so important for us because those things are not guaranteed during emergency preparedness.”
“By coming here tonight, it’s really a testament to your willingness to be engaged and informed,” Silva continued, “but also to help get this information out.”
—Caleb Wiseblood
ILLEGAL DRONE: A Brentwood man and Chinese citizen pleaded guilty in March violating national defense airspace by flying a drone last November over Vandenberg Space Force Base, where this SpaceX Falcon 9 launched in March 2018.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY
SIREN CALL: On March 31, a handful of Santa Barbara County officials and elected leaders from Solvang and Buellton held a community meeting to engage with the public on current and potential initiatives to help strengthen the Santa Ynez Valley’s protection protocols during wildfires.
Los Padres Forest Association projects stalled amid federal
staff cuts
As thousands of U.S. Forest Service workers get the axe amid mass federal staffing cuts, the Los Padres Forest Association is also feeling the impacts of loss, slowing its capacity to improve trails and preserve local wilderness.
Los Padres Forest Association (LPFA)
Executive Director Bryan Conant said that the nonprofit’s primary purpose is to assist the U.S. Forest Service, and that LPFA staff is out in the Los Padres National Forest 350 days out of the year maintaining and improving trails.
“Over the course of any given day, I probably communicate with 10 different Forest Service staff, and I’m on the phone with multiple Forest Service staff each day, and we rely on them just like they rely on us,” Conant said. “You know, they rely on us to help provide them a service, and we will rely on them to give us the approvals or make sure that we have whatever we have in order to accomplish our work.”
But amid the Trump administration’s implementation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), thousands of Forest Service employees have been laid off since February.
“A lot of the projects that we’ve been working on with Forest Service staff have halted, have slowed down, and have stopped. And, you know, a few of the people that were let go, we were working with on a daily basis trying to get approvals for certain projects,” he said. “Not to mention, they’re good friends of ours and nice people—you’d never like to see that happen.”
One of the LPFA’s stalled projects is in the Lake Fire burn area, where thousands of acres on and near Figueroa Mountain burned last summer.
“We’re trying to get in there and do some protective measures on the trails. And so we’re waiting for some approvals on that,” Conant said. “And one of the gentlemen that was let go was working on that, so his workload had to get pushed on to somebody else who already had a full plate to begin with.”
Another area of major impact, Conant mentioned, is recreation staff who change toilet paper dispensers at campgrounds and ensure the area is clean.
In his 20 years working with the Forest Service, Conant said he has consistently seen understaffing, but within the past four years, he saw larger efforts toward filling these gaps. Now, those efforts are gone, he said.
“We’re kind of like taking a step back again,” he said. “And so, for me, just kind of looking at it from what the Forest Service might look like in another three or four years, we may be right back where we were three or four years ago, where we didn’t have anywhere near the staff in order to complete the projects and the capacity that was needed.”
For now, LPFA has to wait on the Forest Service for further instruction amid stalled projects.
A U.S. Forest Service representative told the Sun via email it is doing the best it can with its current budget to continue operations.
“It is our intent to maintain access to recreation opportunities to the greatest degree possible,” the representative wrote. “Additionally, USDA is reviewing all executive orders signed by President Trump, including a temporary hiring pause, and expects to share guidance on implementing them to agencies and mission areas as soon as possible.”
The email also referred to a March 5 statement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The statement said that by March 12 all terminated probationary employees would be placed in pay status and be provided with back pay from their date of termination.
“The department will work quickly to develop a phased plan for return to duty, and while those plans materialize, all probationary employees will be paid,” it said. m
—Libbey Hanson
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Community care
CenCal Health increases partnerships, implements CalAIM to expand health care services for local residents
BY EMMA MONTALBANO
ne-third of Santa Barbara County residents are members of CenCal Health. In San Luis Obispo County, 1 in 4 residents use the plan.
CenCal Health, the nonprofit that contracts with the state to administer Medi-Cal benefits to residents in the region, has been implementing an “ambitious” initiative to streamline services, advance health equity, and promote whole-person care, all to improve health outcomes, according to CenCal CEO Marina Owen.
That initiative—called CalAIM, for California Advancing and Innovating MediCal—has enhanced CenCal Health’s impact, she said.
“It just allowed us to try new things and to try to innovate in different ways,” Owen said. “We’ve been doing things the same way for a while in Medi-Cal. The results we received were great for families and children but perhaps didn’t go as far as needed for some of these populations.”
CenCal presented its 2025 Community Report to its board of directors in March, which also highlighted new collaborations with health care providers and community partners.
In its 2022-25 Strategic Plan, CenCal Health laid out four main goals: creating and maintaining community partnerships, advancing quality and equity of care for everyone, expanding its role and reach in the community, and enhancing efficiency and impact. Owen said that the organization has met all of its goals for the first two years of the plan and is on track to meet the remaining ones by the end of 2025.
“I’m most excited about partnerships we’ve built and developed because we’ve really created a health improvement partnership here locally on the Central Coast,” she said.
“To have, between the two counties, 70 partners working together to improve the health and well-being of our community is really powerful, and I think only good things can come from that. We’re stronger together.”
Owen highlighted key partnerships, including with housing and homelessness organizations like 5Cities Homeless Coalition and Good Samaritan Shelter, as well as with the public health departments in the two counties CenCal Health serves. According to Owen, establishing partnerships has been essential for implementing CalAIM programs and increasing the capacity of care so the organization can improve wellness for more people.
“When we all work together behind the scenes, we can make things easier for people accessing care,” Owen said. “I’d say collaboration is really practical. While it feels intangible, it’s absolutely necessary to make sure that people don’t fall through the cracks.”
Local lifeline
Seeing people get better because of the enhanced care they provide keeps Barnard and the Good Samaritan Shelter motivated to continue their efforts of transforming the lives of people experiencing homelessness.
“We’ve met them in the encampments and have them come through our doors and get the enhanced services and community supports,” Barnard said. “And then we see them move on to housing, where they’re just a completely different person and getting the supports and their needs met so that they can stabilize well in housing.”
In addition to establishing partnerships to expand services for unhoused individuals, CenCal Health also started working with local education agencies to provide enhanced mental health care to young students. Owen revealed that the organization has reached 40,000 K-12 students with its transformed mental health services and has screened 25,000 students for behavioral health.
“That’s a lot of students screened, and we saw at least 1,000 being enrolled in programs, really just for some extra help,” Owen said.
For more information on CenCal Health and the services it provides, visit cencalhealth.org.
To learn more about the CalAIM initiative and how it seeks to transform Medi-Cal, visit dhcs.ca.gov/calaim.
Good Samaritan Shelter Executive Director Sylvia Barnard explained that CalAIM includes community support services such as enhanced care management, sobering centers, recuperative care, housing navigation, and housing retention. As a result of its partnership with CenCal Health, more individuals experiencing homelessness were able to access care, and more people stayed housed.
“I want to thank CenCal,” Barnard said. “They’ve really been a leader in both Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties in implementing CalAIM, and we’re just so grateful that we have them as a strong partner and look forward to continuing to provide CalAIM support services.”
“Teachers were trained to better address students’ needs so that we didn’t see students not graduate and didn’t see students have to transition out of their typical schools and go to a correctional school or facility.”
In March, CenCal Health kicked off planning for its next strategic plan. Owen said that for this new plan, the team will work to implement new CalAIM programs as they arrive, but she noted a need to consider an environment of uncertainty when it comes to state and federal funding under the Trump administration.
“The biggest challenge is going to be sustainability,” she said. “With the budget challenges in Sacramento, and with the federal government looking to reduce funding to Medicaid, we are really wanting to maintain what we’ve built and keep working on helping people.” m
Staff Writer Emma Montalbano can be reached at emontalbano@newtimesslo.com.
PARTERING FOR PROGRESS: There is a local shortage of doctors and nurses, and CenCal Health is looking into how the organization can start supporting the Central Coast workforce to ultimately increase its capacity to provide care, according to the organization’s CEO, Marina Owen.
Full steam ahead
OmniTRAX enters joint venture with Coast Belle Rail Corporation to improve century-old Santa Maria Valley Railroad
BY EMMA MONTALBANO
The Santa Maria Valley Railroad (SMVRR) has been in operation for 114 years and survived both the Great Depression and World War II under Capt. G. Allan Hancock’s ownership.
After struggling with the rise of trucking, the railroad remained under Hancock’s descendants until the Himoto family acquired it in 2006.
According to Rob Himoto, president of the SMVRR, for 18 years, the Himoto family-owned Coast Belle Rail Corporation has been working to restore the railway tracks, revive traffic, and attract customers back to rail shipping.
Remington emphasized that this partnership with Himoto and the SMVRR is the first of its kind for OmniTRAX, saying that the reason the company loves this short line railroad so much is “because of Rob and because of the local employees.”
“We wouldn’t have been attracted to this rail if Rob didn’t want to continue being involved,” Remington said. “Because of his connections and everything that Rob’s done in the community, it’s very impactful. For us, this railroad would not have been as attractive if it would have just been 100 percent purchase.”
“It’s been a pretty challenging 18 years turning the railroad around,” Himoto said.
Since taking over ownership of the SMVRR, Himoto explained that Coast Belle Rail Corporation has received many requests to purchase the railroad, but they’ve always said, “It’s not for sale.” Now, they’ve entered into a joint venture with OmniTRAX, the rail and real estate affiliate of the privately owned, family-run Broe Group.
“It was the wishes, when the Hancock family sold the railroad to us, that they wanted to keep it in family hands, which we are, instead of selling to a big corporation, because family hands are a lot more community minded.”
Both Himoto and Remington described the benefits of rail freight transportation as being more cost-effective and environmentally friendly, as well as reducing congestion on streets and highways in the communities it serves. With this partnership and the potential expansions that come with it, the two expressed hopes that they might be able to bring some additional jobs to the Santa Maria Valley.
“We’d rather people be there working versus leaving to go to San Luis Obispo or heading down to Santa Barbara,” Remington said. “Let’s keep people in the community, and let’s continue to have good-paying jobs for them and have reasons for them to want to stay in the community.”
Highlight
Himoto expressed excitement over the partnership with OmniTRAX, noting that it will allow Coast Belle Rail Corporation to continue running and revamping the railroad with even more capital to expand. He explained that OmniTRAX operates 28 other railways across the country and has many major real estate holdings.
“Kind of like the Capt. Hancock method of building a railroad, OmniTRAX buys a railroad and then they try to purchase land next to railroad tracks to develop it into industries that the railroad can serve.”
These hopes of expanding operations by purchasing land along the 14.7 miles of SMVRR mainline track are shared by OmniTRAX’s vice president of corporate cevelopment, Scott Remington. He said that OmniTRAX found SMVRR attractive because of its potential for industrial development and its location in an agriculturally rich area.
“We call ourselves ‘OmniTRAX, powered by rail and real estate,’” Remington said. “[The goal] is going to be developing acreage along the railroad, and, of course, trying to grow the existing business, and then try to get more people to look at truck conversion to rail.”
• The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection recently released updated statewide fire hazard maps for the first time in 14 years. The department ranked areas based on their wildfire risk, from moderate to very high. The designations were determined by factors such as fuel load, slope, fire weather, and wind patterns. Lompoc’s draft map was published on March 10 and is now open for public review. As required by law, the Lompoc City Council must adopt and designate the updated fire zones within 120 days of receiving the map. The maps use color-coding to classify areas by wildfire severity and help inform building standards, real estate disclosures, and community safety plans. Lompoc’s updated map includes all risk zones, ranging from gray (no risk) to yellow, orange, and red (very high risk). To view Lompoc’s map, visit cityoflompoc.com/ government/departments/ fire-department/ document-downloads. m
Staff Writer Emma Montalbano can be reached at emontalbano@ newtimesslo.com.
BACK ON TRACK: With money and resources from OmniTRAX, Santa Maria Valley Railroad
President Rob Himoto hopes to be able to upgrade the entire 14.7 miles of mainline track, enabling trains to clear crossings faster and serve customers in a more timely way.
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)
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Take a look at whether government operations are expedient, efficient, or cost conscious
BY RON FINK
In private businesses, big and small decisions are made much quicker than in government. The management team makes a presentation to the board of directors and action is taken.
In government, it can either be the professional staff or a group of “concerned citizens” that approach the elected officials, who then discuss the issue, sometimes for many months, until they finally decide what to do. This after taking the original idea and slicing, dicing, mutilating, and modifying it until it barely represents the initial thought.
In business, when an idea fails it is the investors that lose, and if it’s a costly failure, the board of directors and most likely the originator of the idea are replaced. Examples of this are reported regularly in business-oriented news outlets.
In government, there is rarely any accountability for delays, cost overruns, or failures, big or small.
One example of a mega-mistake I am very familiar with was the construction of the space shuttle launch site at the nearby Vandenberg Space Force Base. The Air Force had decided that it needed a West Coast launch facility, and NASA needed a fourth orbiter to add to the fleet but didn’t have funding for it.
So, the Air Force would fund the fourth orbiter and build the new launch site on the abandoned manned orbiter launch site and construct new
America deserves better than this
As an elder, I’ve lived through many political crises in this country—but I have never seen an attack on our democracy like this. In the past, there was bipartisan opposition to lawlessness. Today, the
post-launch processing facilities near the main runways.
It would take many years and hundreds of millions of tax dollars to accomplish. It all started with several meetings to determine the scope of the project; the military needed to define mission objectives so they could prepare a budget.
The first mistake was determining how many launches a year would eventually occur. In government, the bigger the idea the bigger the budget is. A big budget means more colonels and generals would be needed to oversee the effort. They finally decided that they would launch every 14 days—that decision didn’t consider the operational reality of the months-long process needed to refurbish an orbiter for another flight.
I worked for a contractor during the construction and site activation phase of the project.
What I observed were many bad decisions that resulted in the loss of hundreds of millions of tax dollars. One small example was a grading project at the launch site. During the early stages of construction, several rainy days created mud and debris flows that impacted the area.
A project was developed to provide better drainage; the cost was around $50,000. A newly assigned lieutenant was tasked to find cost savings, as the total project was way over budget and savings were needed. He canceled the grading project, thus saving the $50,000—he was a hero!
Later, another storm brought a torrent of mud and debris onto the launch site, again causing significant damage to the mobile service tower. The cost to repair the damage and complete the drainage project exceeded $500,000. By then another officer was charged with fixing the problem, and he also became a hero for “saving the program.”
guardrails are being dismantled before our eyes, and we must sound the alarm.
Speak up! Send us your views and opinion to letters@santamariasun.com.
The damage this administration has done to our communities and our democracy, not to mention the damage to future generations globally, in just the first 30 days is too long to even capture at this point. Very few guardrails seem left with the exception
The biggest problem was the decision to try and launch from Vandenberg. The space shuttle system was very heavy—it was designed to be launched from Kennedy Space Center where the Earth’s rotation assists in lifting it into orbit. At Vandenberg, the launch path is a polar orbit, and without the assistance of the Earth’s rotation all that could be launched was an orbiter minus a payload; despite this fact, the Air Force management team continued the project hoping that they could somehow overcome the launch weight issue in time for the first mission.
When the orbiter Challenger exploded, the Air Force finally concluded that it had made a mega-mistake, and the Vandenberg project was canceled. Although many system parts were salvaged and shipped to Kennedy Space Center as replacement parts, the total loss was in the hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars.
And although many active-duty military and government employees were promoted during the nearly 10 years to build, partially activate, and then shut down the project, no one was held accountable for this enormous waste of time and resources.
Waste, reckless spending, and sometimes fraud exists at every level of government without any accountability for failure. This means that government efficiency is an oxymoron, and so far no one has been able to fix it.
There are numerous examples like this; thus, the government is neither expedient, efficient, nor cost conscious.
Maybe it’s time for a cultural change in how the government, at all levels, is run. m
Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.
of the people expressing their concerns and outrage widely in the streets, in our local news organizations, with our pocketbooks, and on our social media at every opportunity!
America deserves better. It is our time to demand our government work for all the people, not just for the rich few.
The
environmental cost
of the space boom
In 2023, there were 211 successful orbital launches worldwide—98 by SpaceX, a record it matched in 2024. Vandenberg Space Force Base set a record 51 launches in 2024, with projections to double in 2025. While promoted as a national security necessity, most of these launches are commercial.
As SpaceX accelerates launches off the Central Coast, a hidden crisis is unfolding—pollution from rockets and space debris. Despite warnings since 1990, no global regulations exist, leaving the final frontier vulnerable to unchecked environmental damage.
Space is becoming dangerously crowded. More than 11,000 satellites currently orbit Earth, with numbers set to soar. When old satellites burn up on reentry, they release metal particles, including ozone-depleting aluminum oxide. Starlink alone contributes 40 percent of this space junk, with daily reentries worsening the problem. Reusable rockets reduce waste, but their upper stages—each weighing 4 tons—burn up on reentry, releasing pollutants into the upper atmosphere. Atmospheric scientist Connor Barker estimates that megaconstellation launches already account for 12 percent of the space industry’s ozone depletion, a figure set to rise. Without oversight, commercial space activity risks causing lasting harm to Earth’s atmosphere. Urgent action is needed before it’s too late.
Marilyn Farmer San Luis Obispo
Jill Stegman Grover Beach
The long haul
If you were a legal resident of the U.S.—not a citizen—and had to choose between flying a drone over Vandenberg Space Force Base or being a pro-Palestinian protester on a college campus, which would you choose?
One is illegal and the other riles up the delicate sensibilities of the Trump administration but is legal under the First Amendment
What do you think?
You could ask Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder and Columbia University graduate student who Immigrations and Customs Enforcement arrested in early March. He’s sitting in an ICE detention facility waiting for his case to be heard by a judge.
You could also ask Yinpiao Zhou, a legal resident of the U.S. who lives in Brentwood. He will get released from prison after serving four months and pleading guilty to a misdemeanor of flying a drone over and taking pictures of Vandenberg. He also has to pay $225 in fines. Zhou was arrested as he was about to board a flight to his home country—China. Seems fishy. Khalil was arrested at his university apartment. While Zhou’s act, which included downloading software that made it so his unmanned aircraft could fly over a restricted airspace like Vandenberg, could make him lose his status in the U.S., it hasn’t so far.
Khalil possibly engaged in protests last year that pissed Columbia University off, and Trump’s goons have accused him of being antisemitic. But I guess he will at least get his day in court. One sure seems worse than the other. And yet, Zhou is going to be released from prison under the plea deal. It seems like this
administration has its priorities all mixed up. But it’s all part of the Trump show—whatever rallies his base more and pisses off his perceived enemies the most, that’s what you get. Division is his talisman. Hang on tight. It’s going to be a long four years.
Especially for nonprofits who work with federal agencies, like the Los Padres Forest Association. The group rehabilitates federal land so that residents can continue to recreate on it. This is a necessity for the hiking trails in Los Padres National Forest, an area that’s constantly fighting the damages that natural disasters cause without adequate funding to do anything about it. Campgrounds, roads, and recreation areas damaged by storms and wildfire remain closed for years.
The association steps up when the Forest Service can’t, but the administration’s push to fire “unnecessary” federal employees to “save billions” in a “corrupt” federal system means that the national forest no longer has the employees to help facilitate the permits that the association needs to do its public service.
“A lot of the projects that we’ve been working on with the Forest Service staff have halted, have slowed down, have stopped,” Bryan Conant with the association said. “We’re kind of like taking a step back again. … We may be right back to where we were three or four years ago, where we didn’t have anywhere near the staff in order to complete the projects and the capacity that was needed.”
Pretty lame if you ask me. You didn’t ask, but I don’t need you to! m
The canary is a loudmouth. Send a response to canary@santamariasun.com.
Hot Stuff
ARTS
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE
CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. (805) 928-7799. Kleindancesarts.com. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.
DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN
DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. ongoing Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, (805) 937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.
FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17
Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., 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.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
ARTIST RECEPTION FOR PATTI
ROBBINS: PIZZAZZ Meet Patti Robbins at Gallery Los Olivos for her solo exhibit, Pizzazz, with bold, contemporary still life oil paintings. April 5 1-3 p.m. (805) 6887517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.
FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING Castle has long been interested in shamanic rituals and the masks associated with them. This exhibit provides a rare glimpse of the many sides of Castle that unfolded while creating this series. Through April 6 elverhoj.org/. Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, (805) 686-1211.
NATURAL PERFUME-MAKING: FORESTS AND FLORALS Create nature-based scents inspired by forests and florals of Yosemite. All participants will take home a custom-made fragrance and guide on the procurement process. April 13 1-4 p.m. calnatureartmuseum.org/news/perfumemaking-april-2025. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang. PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT KAENA Spend the afternoon sipping delicious wine and capturing the beauty of the landscape on a canvas. April 12 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $89. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Kaena at the Ranch, 800 E. Hwy 246, Solvang. PIZZAZZ AT GALLERY LOS OLIVOS: FEATURED ARTIST PATTI ROBBINS A vibrant solo exhibit of contemporary still lifes, described as a celebration of color, texture, and perspective. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through April 30 (805) 688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. YOSEMITE: SANCTUARY IN STONE A solo exhibition by award-winning nature and landscape photographer William Neill. Through Sept. 1 California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, calnatureartmuseum.org.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG CUCKOO’S MIXED REALITY NEST
Showcasing works by featured artist Mitra Cline, inspired by how cuckoo birds make their homes in other birds’ nests, showing
how we all depend on each other to create and grow. April 3 -27 Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc, (805) 705-5328, lompocart.org.
FROM TRAUMA TO HOPE: STORIES OF FOSTER CARE A powerful and moving community art installation that brings the voices of former foster youth to the forefront. Presented by CASA of Santa Barbara County. Visit website for more details. April 3, 12-8 p.m. and Through April 6, 12-7 p.m. Free. sbcasa.org/from-traumato-hope/. The Record, 115 N. H St., Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA This Tony Award-winning musical brings Roald Dahl’s classic book to life, while celebrating imagination, courage, and resilience through the story of a brilliant, book-loving young girl. April 11, 7-9 p.m., April 12 7-9 p.m. and April 13, 1:59-4 p.m. General admission $30; student $25. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/ shows/sjhs-matilda/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
CHARACTERS AND RELATIONSHIPS: IMPROVISATIONAL THEATER CLASS
Learn to access emotion in the moment, build characters and relationships on emotional perspectives, and use patterns of emotional behaviors to drive scenes forward. Sundays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through April 13 $80. (805) 556-8495. improvforgood.fun/. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande.
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four
classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
PLAYERS WEST PRESENTS STEEL
MAGNOLIAS In a small Louisiana salon, Truvy and her assistant Annelle style hair and share laughter as the women of Chinquapin navigate life’s joys and challenges. April 4 7-9 p.m., April 5, 1:59-4 & 7-9 p.m. and April 6 1:59-4 p.m. General admission $34; child $28.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/steelmagnolias/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
POP-UP HANDCRAFTED JEWELRY DESIGN SHOWCASE AND POET BOOK
SIGNING Enjoy handcrafted jewelry displays and a local poet book signing. Hosted by artists Tina Doherty of Designs By Tina Louise and author Carolyn Chilton Casas. April 5, 1-4 p.m. (805) 720-0582. Black Lake Community Center, 498 Colonial Place, Nipomo.
RHYTHM NATION A collection of dance pieces performed by The Studio of Performing Arts Performance Team Dancers. With many varities of dance and ages, you’re sure to be entertained by these hardworking performers. April 4 -6 my805tix.com. The Studio of Performing Arts, 835 Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
SECOND SATURDAY IMPROV MEETUP
Have you ever wanted to try improv? Or are you an experienced player looking for opportunities to practice? Join to play short-form games and share smiles in the supportive environment of improv. Second Saturday of every month, 2-4 p.m. improvforgood.fun/. Flex Performing Arts Studio (Studio D), 1820 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
SHUT UP, SHERLOCK When a genuine whodunit unfolds during a dress rehearsal for a Sherlock Holmes play, a real-life
PICTURESQUE PAINTING
Art Spot is holding an afternoon painting event at Kaena at the Ranch in Solvang on Saturday, April 12, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Participants can sip wine and tap into their creative side, capturing the expansive vineyard landscape with a paintbrush and canvas in hand. To get more info and purchase tickets to the class, visit artspotonwheels.com.
—Angie Stevens
sleuth steps in to untangle the wacky web of quirky characters (and even quirkier actors) to crack the case. Through April 26 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA Check the venue’s calendar for storytelling workshops, lectures, movie nights, and discussions held on a periodic basis. ongoing thelavra.org/ home. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.
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.
ART AFTER DARK: JESSIE SKIDMORE
Come by MYLR Bookstore and see oil and acrylic paintings by Jessie Skidmore during April’s Art After Dark event. Snacks and drinks provided. April 4 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. mylrgallery.com/. MYLR Gallery, 1238 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-1611.
ART AT THE ODD Held in conjunction with Art After Dark SLO, Art At The Odd features works by artists such as Tyler Dartnell, Seth Callen, Joey Salazar, and Judith G Anderson. April 4 , 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 286-2986. Oddfellows Hall, 520 Dana Street, San Luis Obispo.
ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
THE CAKE Faith, family, and frosting collide in this timely new play from the writer of NBC’s This is Us ThursdaysSaturdays, 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through April 13 $20-$37. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 786-2440, slorep.org/.
CAL POLY STUDENT OPERA THEATRE PRESENTS “GIANNI SCHICCHI” AND OPERA SCENES Set in the roaring 1920s, and performed in English with supertitles, and arias from beloved operas. April 12 , 7:30 p.m. $22 general; $12 students. (805) 756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/ opera/. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.
CENTRAL COAST COMEDY THEATER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW An ongoing improv comedy program featuring the CCCT’s Ensemble. Grab some food at the public market’s wonderful eateries and enjoy the show upstairs. Second Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. $10. my805tix.com/e/ improv-comedy-1-10. SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, 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. CONRAD TAO & CALEB TEICHER: COUNTERPOINT Pianist and composer Conrad Tao, and choreographer and dancer Caleb Teicher, seamlessly bring together classical piano and tap dance in this exploration of the dichotomy of their different perspectives and artistic practices. April 8 7:30 p.m. General admission starts at $38. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., 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.
ESTEBAN CABEZA DE BACA: REMEMBERING THE FUTURE Ranging from 2015 to 2024, the eleven paintings in the gallery explore issues of belonging and identity, activism, and joy and celebration. Through June 22, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805)
543-8562. sloma.org. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. (805) 5438562. sloma.org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
FRAGILE EARTH: AN ART EXHIBITION
Attend the Art After Dark reception for Fragile Earth, a show featuring work exploring climate change and its social and environmental impacts. April 4 , 5 p.m. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
FRESH! NEW WORK IN FINE CRAFT A call yo artists. The deadline to apply is April 25. Enter for consideration in a juried, fine craft show featuring 3-D handwork by artisans from SLO and neighboring counties. Through April 25 (805) 704-6298. centralcoastartistscollective.org/. Online, See website, 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.
JESSICA MICHELLE SINGLETON:
LIVE COMEDY IN SLO With specials on Hulu and Peacock, Singleton will her high energy, overly honest, always silly, comedic style to the Central Coast for one night only. April 10 7:30-9 p.m. $22. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 7819974, humdingerbrewing.com.
MOBILE CLAY CLASSES Offering handbuilding, throwing, and ceramic decorative arts. All ages and abilities are welcome. Call for more info. ongoing (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/ book-online. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.
THE NORTH COUNTY CAMERA CLUB: REGULAR MEETING Zoom meeting where photographers of all levels can participate, share photos, exchange information, and learn from each other. Second Tuesday of every month, 7-9 p.m. No fee. facebook.com/groups/PRAAphotoguild. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
NOTES FOR TOMORROW Features artworks from around the world, brought together to reflect on a new global reality ushered in by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through June 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/notes-fortomorrow/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden. Second Saturday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $75 per picket or 2 for $100. (805) 541-1400. slobg. org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com).
Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.
RM ART STUDIOS AND ART AFTER DARK
Rosemary and Mike Bauer are showing paintings of local scenes during Art After Dark this weekend in downtown SLO. At the corner of Higuera and Nipomo. April 4 5-8 p.m. Free event. Brickhouse SLO (Eighty20 Group), 599 Higuera St., A, San Luis Obispo, (805) 225-4436.
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 NIGHTWRITERS: A COMMUNITY OF WRITERS SLO NightWriters supports local writers with monthly presentations, critique groups, contests, and other events. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. slonightwriters.org. United Church of Christ (Congregational) of San Luis Obispo, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo.
WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO SHOW On display now through mid-April. ongoing slogallery.com/. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
APRIL ARTISTS RECEPTION: EXHIBITS WITH JENSEN, SANDERS, AND COHEN Meet featured artists Nancy Jensen (watercolors), Sandra Sanders (acrylics), and Alan Cohen (driftwood assemblages). Refreshments served.
April 12 , 3-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION A staged reading, written by Annie Baker. April 4 -6 my805tix.com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.
DRIFTWOOD ASSEMBLAGES BY ALAN COHEN See Cohen’s driftwood assemblage sculptures at Gallery at Marina Square. This architect transforms beach-found objects into birds, sea creatures, and more. Through April 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
EARTH DAY ART SHOW Celebrate Earth Day early at Casa Ramos Art Gallery. Enjoy vibrant nature-inspired paintings, sculpture, furniture, refreshments, and more. April 5, 3-7 p.m. (805) 439-0306. Casa Ramos Art Gallery, 1034 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos, johnramos.com.
FINE ART PAINTINGS BY SANDRA
SANDERS A California native, Sanders captures seascapes and landscapes in vibrant acrylics. On display in the lower gallery. Through April 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FINE ART WATERCOLORS BY NANCY
JENSEN Jensen celebrates Central Coast joys through vibrant watercolors of vineyards, wildflowers, and coastal scenes. Through April 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
JAN FRENCH GIVES FREE WATERCOLOR PAINTING DEMO AT ART CENTER
MORRO BAY French will lead a free watercolor painting demonstration. April 5, 3-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.
TIMKET: ETHIOPIA 2020 Experience Timket, an Ethiopian tradition, through the eyes of photographer Michael J. Costa. Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through April 27 Free. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos, (559) 799-9632.
WAVE POUR PAINTING PARTY Tap into your creative side and make a wave painting on a large canvas or wood panel. Get tickets and more info at the link. April 5, 2-4 p.m., April 9 6-8 p.m. and April 12 2-4 p.m. $45. my805tix.com. Lor Coaching Studios, 525 Harbor St., Morro Bay.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750.
CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 7 p.m. Free. (805) 934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria.
CLOTHING EXCHANGE Join Santa Maria Public Library’s second annual clothing exchange at Shepard Hall. No shoes, socks, undergarments, or dirty clothing allowed. April 5 , 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria. org/services/ departments/ library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
EVERYTHING EDIBLE: GROWING
GROUNDS FARM Join Growing Grounds Farm for its Everything Edible plant event. This annual Spring celebration will have everything you need to get your garden growing. Visit the link for more information. April 4 10 a.m.-3 p.m., April 5, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and April 6 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (805) 934-2182. facebook.com/events/14 16266739755096/1416266753088428?ac tive_tab=about. Growing Grounds Farm, 820 W. Foster Rd., Santa Maria.
FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt. org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.
FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17
Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17.
First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 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.
ORCUTT MINERAL SOCIETY Second Tuesday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750.
RAINBOW READS BOOK CLUB Join to discuss literature about LGBTQIA+ authors, characters, and themes. April’s book is On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong. Registration required. April 12 , 3-4 p.m. Free. (805) 9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SANTA MARIA TOASTMASTERS Develop your public speaking skills at this club meeting. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. (805) 570-0620. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
BOUNTY OF THE VALLEY Join SYV Family School as they honor 50 years of educational excellence and community impact. For more information on the event, follow the ticket link. April 5, 5-10 p.m. $150. (805) 688-5440. syvfamilyschool.org. SYV Family School, 5300 Figueroa Mountain Road, Los Olivos.
FREE ADMISSION: CALIFORNIA POPPY
DAY Purchase native plants for your garden, create paper flower crowns, enjoy free floral face-painting, secure your free collectible sticker, and more. April 6 10 a.m.-3 p.m. calnatureartmuseum.org/ news/california-poppy-day-2025. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.
SOLVANG BRICK AND BUILDS The city’s first-ever weekend of brick-building fun. With a pro builder competition, master builders meet and greets, a scavenger hunt, and more. April 5 -6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free, but with ticketed portions of weekend (visit site for details). (805) 465-7298. solvangusa.com/solvang-brickbuilds-2025/. Citywide, Solvang.
TOMATOMANIA This year’s expanded Tomatomania, hosted by Forage Florals and curated by The Starter Farm, returns with a larger selection of tomatoes, produce, flowers, and classes. April 5 -6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free; plus item purchase
AFTERNOON BINGO Bingo with potluck. Parking in rear. Buy one of everything for $20. Guests can participate without bringing food. Look forward to a fun afternoon. Second Tuesday of every month, 12-4 p.m. All games are $1 each. (805) 736-6669. Valley of Flowers HalfCentury Club, 341 No. N St., Lompoc. KITE FESTIVAL AND CAREER, COLLEGE, AND TRADE FAIR A community-driven event that combines a youth-focused career, college, and trade fair with a fun, family-friendly kite festival. April 5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Lompoc High School, 515 W. College Ave., Lompoc. LOMPOC ART WALK Lompoc transforms into a celebration and showcase of local artists during this monthly event, which features live music, art, exciting exhibitions, performances, and a variety of unique vendors. First Thursday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Old Town Lompoc, H and I St., Lompoc. THE VILLAGE TREASURE CHEST This event is for the whole family. There will be vendors selling their wears, music, facepainting, and some kind of food booth. Come out and spend part of your Saturday supporting local vendors. First Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Vandenberg Village Community Services District Office, 3745 Constellation Road, Lompoc, (805) 291-6370.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY AVILA BEACH BINGO NIGHT Head to Avila for this family bingo night. Wine and beer will be for sale and both prizes and snacks will be available. Get tickets and more info at the link. April 4 , 6:30-8 p.m. $8. my805tix.com. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach. BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
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,
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 17
Savor the Scene. West End Living.
Modern coastal homes surrounded by inspired cuisine, open-air ambiance, and California flavor.
Modern coastal homes surrounded by inspired cuisine, open-air ambiance, and California flavor.
Palladium is the inaugural signature series address in Grover Beach’s West End. Explore available homes at Encore and Trinity as well—where every detail is curated. All three offer contemporary coastal living with access to vibrant eateries, scenic rooftops, and boutique charm. Discover more at CCB.Homes or call (805) 556-3060
Palladium is the inaugural signature series address in Grover Beach’s West End. Explore available homes at Encore and Trinity as well—where every detail is curated. All three offer contemporary coastal living with access to vibrant eateries, scenic rooftops, and boutique charm.
Discover more at CCB.Homes or call (805) 556-3060
PAINTED PIZZAZZ
Gallery Los Olivos will host Arroyo Grande-based artist Patti Robbins’ solo exhibit, Pizzazz, which will be on view beginning Tuesday, April 1, until Wednesday, April 30. Robbins’ contemporary still life oil paintings reimagine scenes in bold ways, making use of striking color palettes and the natural environment around her. Visit gallerylosolivos.com for more information. —A.S.
improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. (970) 710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.
COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN
MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY
Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks including pathways maintenance, litter patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, irrigation system expansion/repairs, pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, and tools related to the above activities. First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 710-3073. Nipomo Native Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo.
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 dropin; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52
Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological. Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. (805) 547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index. php/chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano. POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS
for more info. April 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free to attend. (805) 481-4131. groverbeachlibrary.org. Grover Beach Community Library, 240 N 9th St., Grover Beach.
WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. (805) 481-6399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.
SAN LUIS OBISPO BEYOND MINDFULNESS
Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
BRUSHSTROKES AND BURROS: SCRATCH ART
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.
QI GONG: MINDFUL MOVEMENTS FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY
Balance your mind, body, and spirit with Qi Gong — gentle stretching and strengthening movements that promotes physical wellbeing and inner peace. This is geared towards all fitness levels and ages. Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach.
SHAKTI GODDESS RETREAT Open to the empowered sacred feminine within your subtle body through the Shakti (divine feminine energy) life force. Please bring a journal, pen, clothes to lounge in, a bathing suit, hat, and a towel. April 6, 2:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Vibe Retreats, Contact for address, Arroyo Grande.
SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. (805) 904-6615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach. SPRING FLING The Grover Beach Community Library is sponsoring a free day at the Exploration Discovery Center at 867 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach. Contact
WORKSHOP Meet rescued donkeys and craft with purpose. Donated wine, lunch, and dessert are included, and all proceeds will support rescued donkeys. April 5, 1-4 p.m. $125. (805) 710-8445. zeffy. com. Rancho Burro Donkey Sanctuary, 4855 Righetti Road, 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.
CALRTA DIVISION 23 GENERAL
MEETING AND LUNCHEON Join to celebrate SLCUSD retired superintendent Dr. Bill Newman’s 100th birthday, with a performance by violinist Brynn Albanese. RSVP by March 30. April 10 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $25. (805) 748-6853. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
CENTRAL COAST BRIDE SPRING 2025
WEDDING EXPO From sweet treats to signature sips, Central Coast Bride’s Spring 2025 Wedding Expo is your one-stop shop for planning the wedding of your dreams. Get more info at the link. April 6 -4 p.m. $10-$50. (805) 980-1985. centralcoastbride. com. Madonna Expo Center, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.
CENTRAL COAST DAHLIA SOCIETY
ANNUAL TUBER AND PLANT SALE Don’t miss this year’s annual tuber and mini plant sale. April 5 9 a.m.-noon (805) 8013917. United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 1515 Fredericks St., San Luis Obispo, centralcoastdahlias.org.
CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN
TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:3011:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo. DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) 280-5800. margotschaal.com/qigong. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
FAMILY DAY AT THE DALLIDET Enjoy a day of kid-friendly activities and games, including a garden scavenger hunt, live music, face painting, and a conversation with a local historian who will explain facts from those who grew up in San Luis Obispo in the 1860s. Get tickets and more info at the link. April 5 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $20. my805tix.com. Dallidet Adobe, 1185 Pacific Street, San Luis Obispo, 543-0638.
FREE DAY: GUARDIANS OF THE GREEN
Enjoy a free family day at the SLO Botanical Garden. Learn about trees and seeds, create a nature crown and necklace, plant an acorn, and more. April 13 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org/event/free-dayguardians-of-the-green/. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
FREE QPR SUICIDE PREVENTION
TRAINING Learn to question, persuade, and refer—three steps that can save a life. Free virtual training for parents, educators, and community members. Registration required. April 5 10 a.m.noon. (805) 770-1593. youthwell.org/mental-health-first-aid. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
GROW AND GATHER: A PERINATAL
WELLNESS CIRCLE The intention of this small group gathering is to provide support for expectant and postpartum parents/caregivers in nurturing their mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Thursdays, 10-11:30 a.m. through May 15 $50. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org/ event/grow-gather-a-perinatal-wellnesscircle/. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
HANDS OFF OUR COURTS Rally in front of the SLO Courthouse and then form a protective circle around the entire block. April 5 12-1:30 p.m. Free. San Luis Obispo Courthouse, 1050 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 706-3600, slo.courts.ca.gov/.
HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A safe place to share feelings of depression with those who suffer and those who have recovered to a full, healthy outlook on life. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
HOPE FOR THE FUTURE: A SPRING
BENEFIT FOR CASA OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY Enjoy an evening of wine, beer, mocktails, appetizers, and live music. Proceeds will benefit CASA of San Luis Obispo County, which advocates for local children in foster care. April 5 4-6:30 p.m. $50. (805) 546-2404. slocasa.org/casa-events/. The Carrisa, 736 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.
IRA GLASS: SEVEN THINGS I’VE
LEARNED Ira Glass is the creator, producer, and host of This American Life, the iconic weekly public radio program with millions of listeners around the world. At this event, he will mix stories live onstage and help his audience better follow his creative process. April 5 8 p.m. Starts at $40. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.
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.
PREFUMO CREEK PLANT AND PULL
An environmental restoration volunteer event. Bring close-toed shoes and a water bottle. With free snacks, pizza, and a raffle. All ages are welcome. Rain or shine. April 5 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (858) 245-1747. ccc.ca.gov. Laguna Lake Golf Course, 11175 Los Osos Valley Rd, 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.
SAN LUIS OBISPO SPRING WEDDING EXPO This wedding expo, described as
“the one-stop destination for all things wedding and event planning” will include vendor showcases, inspiration galleries, and special discounts. Visit site for tickets and more info. April 6 12-4 p.m. $10. my805tix.com. Madonna Expo Center, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.
SLO SKIERS MONTHLY MEETING SLO
Skiers is a local sports and social club for adults. Stop by for a social hour with food and drink, followed by the meeting at 6:30 p.m. April 8 Free. sloskiers.org. Milestone Tavern, 972 Foothill Blvd., San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-4316.
SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+
AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)
Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SWEET LULLABIES SOUND JOURNEY
Commonly known as sound baths, these experiences use soft, harmonic tones from instruments such as singing bowls, chimes, and rhythmic drums to promote deep relaxation for both babies and caregivers. April 8 10-11 a.m. my805tix.com. SYYNC Studio, 871 Froom Ranch Way, 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.
TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.
TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP
This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated emotional support group to be heard, share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like your own. Second Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.
FOOD & DRINK
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS BREAKFAST WITH THE PRESIDENT AT MARIAN REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER Marian Regional Medical Center invites you to attend a unique opportunity to explore the advances in health care in Santa Maria Valley over breakfast. Get more info at the link. April 9 8-9:30 a.m. Free. (805) 7393595. Marian Regional Medical Center, 1400 E. Church St., Santa Maria.
EVERYTHING EDIBLE Join Growing Grounds Farm for our Everything Edible plant event. This annual spring celebration will have everything you need to get your garden growing. Get more info at the link. April 4 , 10 a.m.-3 p.m., April 5, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and April 6 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. (805) 934-2182. Growing Grounds Farm, 820 W. Foster Rd., Santa Maria, t-mha.org. 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.
SECOND SATURDAY OPEN AIR MARKET: LOS ALAMOS A carefully curated open air artisan and farm market. Features great vintage finds, handwoven and hand dyed textiles, hand-spun yarn, organic body care products, and locally grown organic eats. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 722-4338. Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.
SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria. TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
THE ALCHEMY OF BREATH AND LEAF
Explore the power of breath work through an illuminating workshop. Stay after for an evening of connection at our open tea lounge. More info is provided at the link. April 12 , 5:30-9 p.m. $25-$50. (619) 8077006. yogashala.9thlimbyoga.com. 9th Limb Yoga, 845 Napa Ave., Morro Bay.
LEARN TO SAIL AT MORRO BAY YACHT
CLUB Learn to sail at the Morro Bay’s only sailing school, with the goal of getting comfortable commanding your own sailboat. There will be a focus on teamwork, developing leadership skills, and having fun. Register at the link. April 5 - Aug. 3 $450. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Yacht Club, 541 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, (805) 772-3981.
SPRING PLANT SALE: LOS OSOS
VALLEY GARDEN CLUB Head to the plant sale to purchase from a selection of twenty-five varieties of tomato, along with vegetable and herb starts, flowers, landscape plants, fruit trees, succulents, and houseplants. April 5 , 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. First Baptist Church of Los Osos, 1900 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos, (805) 528-3066.
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.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
LAGERVILLE Join the nation’s premier lager event, which will host over 60 craft breweries, pouring some of the best lagers in the country. April 12 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $55. Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co., 45 Industrial Way, Buellton, (805) 694-2252, figmtnbrew.com.
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.
& DRINK
MARIACHI SOL
APRIL 11 / TICKETS START AT $54
GERARDO CORONEL
MAY 2 / TICKETS START AT $49
GRUPO CAÑAVERAL
MAY 3 / TICKETS START AT $59
AMANDA MIGUEL
MAY 9 / TICKETS START AT $59
Strawberry Festival
BOOK YOUR AD BY: APRIL 11
PUBLICATION DATE: APRIL 17
Summer Guide
BOOK YOUR AD BY: MAY 16
PUBLICATION DATE: MAY 22
BOOK YOUR AD BY: MAY 30
PUBLICATION DATE: JUNE 5
Hot Stuff
HEEL-TO-KEY HARMONIES
Counterpoint, the brainchild of pianist and composer Conrad Tao and choreographer and dancer Caleb Teicher, is a captivating performance seamlessly weaving classical piano and tap dance. Scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, at 7:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center in San Luis Obispo, the live act will explore the blend of Tao and Teicher’s individual artistic practices. Visit calpolyarts.org for more info.
FOOD & DRINK from page 18
coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BESO WINEMAKER DINNER FEATURING
PARRISH FAMILY VINEYARDS With a six-course dinner prepared by chef Ernesto Picazo paired with the wines of Parrish Family Vineyards. April 10, 6 p.m. my805tix.com. Beso Cocina, 1050 Willow Road, Nipomo.
ITALIAN CATHOLIC FEDERATION
LENTEN FISH FRY The St. Patrick’s Italian Catholic Federation (I.C.F.) is hosting a Lenten Fish Fry. There will be a cash bar and dessert table, and take outs are available. Fridays, 4-7 p.m. through April 11 $10-$20. St. Patrick’s Church, 501 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, stpatsag.org.
MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES
Join to expand your knowledge of the fermentation process and get started fermenting at home. We alternate between demonstration and hands-on classes. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30-$50. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. New topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home.
Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 8016627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.
TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. (805) 295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
THE ART OF TEA: HISTORY, CULTURE, TASTING AND MORE Join Cuesta College on an informative journey to discover tea, the second most consumed beverage in the world after water. April 5, 9 a.m.-noon and April 12 9 a.m.-noon $75. (805) 546-3132. cuesta.edu. Cuesta College Community Programs, Building 4100 Cuesta College Road, San luis obispo. BEAVER FESTIVAL Celebrate beavers. With speakers, music, and family fun. Features Molly Alves from California Department of Fish and Wildlife, with
music by Cuyama Mama and the Hot Flashes. April 12 , 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. (805) 464-1255. slobeaverbrigade.com. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo.
DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET
Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.
SLO GRANGE HALL PANCAKE
BREAKFAST Join the SLO Grange Hall for a good old-fashioned pancake breakfast. Pancakes, bacon, eggs, juice and coffee; all for a low suggested donation price of $10, with proceeds to benefit SLO Grange Hall 639. Second Sunday of every month, 8-11 a.m. $10. (805) 543-0639. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
MUSIC
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
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.
KIELO SMITH LIVE Part of a live music on the patio series. Happy Hour specials and more available. April 6 1-4 p.m. No cover charge. Cool Hand Lukes, 1321 Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.
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.
LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR
Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 623-5129, stellerscellar.com.
MUFFIN MUSIC 2025 RESIDENCY COMMUNITY CONCERTS Join internationally recognized pianist Sylvia Jiang and local composer Davis Reinhart in a fun evening of free music, presented by local nonprofit Muffin Music. April 11 , 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free will offering. (805) 967-4411. muffinmusic.org/concertsand-events. Unity of Santa Maria, 1165 Stubblefield Road, Santa Maria.
MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more.
Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
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. THE RONDALES LIVE Part of a live music on the patio series at Cool Hand Luke’s. Happy Hour specials and more available. April 5 3-6 p.m. No cover charge. Cool Hand Lukes, 1321 Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.
SOULDIES LIVE Hear the Souldies live, featuring The McCharmlys and The Charities. Get tickets to this all-ages event at the link. April 5, 4-8 p.m. $20. my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S. Broadway St., Orcutt, (805) 934-3777. 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.
THE WAY YOU WEAR YOUR HAT The Santa Maria Valley Senior Club presents this dance concert, The Way You Wear Your Hat, with Riptide Big Band, and vocalist Bob Nations. Free thanks to grant funding by the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County. April 13 1:30-4 p.m. Free entry. (775) 813-5186. RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
BRIAN MCKNIGHT LIVE See the R&B multi-instrumentalist live in concert. April 4 , 8 p.m. $50-$75. chumashcasino.com/. Chumash Casino Resort, 3400 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez, (800) 248-6274. HARD DAY’S NIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES Described as Southern California’s no.1 Beatles tribute show. This act has thrilled audiences with tight harmonies and flawless note-for-note instrumental renditions of Beatle hits. April 12 7-9 p.m. $40-$55. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest.org/show-details/ hard-days-night-on-sale-2/20. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang. LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
OZOMATLI This multi-genre band from Los Angeles is a cultural force known for blending Latin, hip-hop, funk, reggae, and global sounds into a vibrant musical experience. April 5 7-9 p.m. $55-$95. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest.org/ show-listing. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.
—A.S.
SPRING CONCERT: SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
WIND ENSEMBLE
The Santa Ynez Valley Wind Ensemble has entertained at local parades, holiday festivals, and Veterans’ ceremonies over the years. Join them for a free performance. April 6 2-3 p.m. syvwindensemble.org/calendar.html.
Bethania Lutheran Church of Solvang, 621 Atterdag Rd., 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
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.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
THE LOUNGE AT BESO An upscale afterhours nightclub experience. With limited capacity and a dress code. For ages 21 and over. Fridays, 10 p.m. my805tix.com. Beso Cocina, 1050 Willow Road, Nipomo.
SHINE ON: THE LIVE PINK FLOYD
EXPERIENCE Experience a breathtaking, authentic tribute to Pink Floyd. A 11-piece ensemble captures their legendary sound, iconic solos, and timeless hits in an unforgettable live show. April 5 7:30 p.m.
$45-$59; Platinum $69. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/shine-on/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
SUNNY WRIGHT GROUP AT PUFFERS OF PISMO Enjoy some jazz, blues, and soul with vocalist Sunny Wright, guitarist Jacob Odell, bassist Joe Duran, and drummer Sean Alexander Collins. April 4 7-10 p.m. $5 cover. (805) 773-6563. puffersofpismo.com/.
Puffers of Pismo, 781 Price St., Pismo Beach. UNFINISHED BUSINESS LIVE An outdoor dance concert to celebrate the local band’s 21st anniversary. April 6, 1-4 p.m. Free admission. Blacklake Golf Course, 1490 Golf Course Lane, Nipomo.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
BATTLE OF THE BANDS 2025: SLO
Five standout bands, hailing from Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and San Luis Obispo, will ignite the stage and compete for $1,000 and a coveted performance slot at this year’s Shabang festival. April
4 8 p.m. $21. fremontslo.com/shows/. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-8600.
BRASS MASH FIRST FRIDAY: PROMISH
III The musicians of Brass Mash invite you to join the festivities at Liquid Gravity and “immerse yourself in the unique fusion of your favorite rock and pop songs.” Get tickets and more info at the link. April 4 6-10 p.m. $24. my805tix.com. Liquid Gravity Brewing Company, 675 Clarion Ct., San Luis Obispo, (805) 457-4677.
DRUMMING FOR WELLNESS A joyful and uplifting drum circle designed specifically for oncology patients, survivors, and their guests to explore rhythm and creative
expression in a supportive group setting, facilitated by Dee DiGioia of Mindful Kindful YOUniversity. April 4 , 5:30-7 p.m. my805tix.com. Adventist Health, 1010 Murray Ave., San Luis Obispo.
AN EVENING IN SONG WITH JADE
JACKSON An intimate night of heartfelt storytelling and country soul, led by acclaimed singer-songwriter Jade Jackson. April 5 7-11 p.m. my805tix.com. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.
FLAVOR PACKET
LIVE Flavor Packet is a California jazz band that stirs up an imaginative sound with their contemporary and world-beat-influenced jazz music. Hear them live at Krobar Craft Distillery. April 5 6-9 p.m. Krobar Craft Distillery, 10 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, krobardistillery.com.
JAZZ VESPERS CONCERT This series is bringing the Rick Helzer Quartet to SLO First Presbyterian Church. Selections include Duke Ellington’s “Come Sunday.” April 6 4-5:30 p.m. Free; donations appreciated. (805) 543-5451. fpcslo.org. First Presbyterian Church of San Luis Obispo, 981 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.
ORGŌNE WITH SUPPORT FROM IMVA LA-based band ORGŌNE is set to hit the stage and deliver a set of ‘60s and ‘70s-era funk and soul. Get tickets and more info at the link. April 11 7 p.m. $33. slobrew.com/. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.
XOTH LIVE GS3events presents thrash metal band Xoth, along with sets from Night Wraith, Pentacaustic, and Lysurgicide. Get tickets and more info about the show at the link. April 11 6 p.m. $14. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE
A rockin’ blues dance party at Niffy’s Merrimaker every first, third, and now fifth Wednesdays. The Blues Asylum house band welcomes local, visiting, and newcomers to the blues groove. Spirits, beer, and wine, with outside food welcome. Every other Wednesday, 7-10 p.m. Free. (805) 235-5223. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos.
JOSHUA RAY WALKER Dallas native
Joshua Ray Walker is set to hit the stage and deliver a night of live country music. Get tickets and more info at the link. April 10, 7-10:30 p.m. $25. thesirenmorrobay.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312.
LISTENING AS RITUAL Group listening sessions with musician/musicologist Ben Gerstein. Explore remarkable recordings of world music, nature field recording, western classical and contemporary, and jazz, sharing and discussing inspiration and perspectives on the expressive power of peoples, cultures, animals and habitats through sonic experience. Every other Monday, 7-8:15 p.m. $10-$15 donation. (805) 305-1229. leftcoastartstudio.com/. Left Coast Art Studio, 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos.
MANDALA MUSIC MEDITATION
Facilitated by Dee DiGioia, Mindful Kindful YOUniversity. April 8, 6 p.m. my805tix.com. Central Coast Body Therapy Center, 2005 9th St., Los Osos, (805) 709-2227.
SLO MEDITATIVE MUSIC FESTIVAL
Features two incredible performances to achieve calm and clarity. With BennardoLarson Duo, PYANOOK, Ralf Schmid, The Ghost Ensemble, and Brynn Albanese. Visit site for more details. Through April 6 $20 each show; $30 for both. my805tix.com/e/meditative. United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo, 543-7580.
SLO SONG CONTEST FINALE Just like at the monthly rounds, ten contestants play two original songs each. Hosted by Songwriters at Play. Visit link for tickets and more info. April 12 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974.
SOULJA BOY LIVE His debut single “Crank That (Soulja Boy)” peaked at number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in 2007. April 11 , 8 p.m. fremontslo.com/shows/. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-8600.
Head to The Bunker SLO for a night of live music with a full lineup of bands. Get tickets and more info at the link. April 5, 6-9:30 p.m. $13. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.
OLD 97S WITH GREY DELISLE Hear the Old 97s live at The Siren, along with special guest Grey DeLisle. Visit the link to purchase tickets and get more info to this show, for ages 21 and over. April 3, 7-10 p.m. $33. thesirenmorrobay.com/. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312.
PATRICK CONTRERAS: VIOLIN ON FIRE
Fresno-based violinist Patrick Contreras is set to play his unique blend of Jimi Hendrix and Santana. Purchase tickets at the link to hear him live. April 6 6-8:30 p.m. $19. thesirenmorrobay.com/. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312.
THIRD WORLD WITH HIJINX Hear 1973 Jamaican reggae fusion band Third World live at The Siren. Get tickets and more info at the link. April 5 8-10:30 p.m. $31. thesirenmorrobay.com/. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312. THE WINEHOUSE EXPERIENCE (A CELEBRATION OF AMY WINEHOUSE)
The Winehouse Experience pays tribute to the late icon Amy Winehouse, known for her distinctive warm vocals, soulful songwriting, and signature style. Hear Mia Karter live as she dips into Winehouse’s discography. April 4 , 7:30-10:30 p.m. $27. thesirenmorrobay.com/. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312. m
Arts
ARTS BRIEFS
Gallery at Monarch Dunes’ spring showcase highlights Nipomo-based artists
Paintings, photographs, and mixed media are among the artworks featured in the Gallery at Monarch Dunes’ spring showcase, a new group exhibition scheduled to debut with an opening reception on Friday, April 4, from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
The exhibit highlights pieces by multiple members of the Trilogy Art Group and is slated to remain on display through late June. The local collective is made up of Nipomo-based artists who reside at Trilogy at Monarch Dunes.
Guests of the show’s opening reception will have the chance to meet some of exhibit’s featured artists in person. The artist lineup includes Mary Bucher (whose piece, Field of Sunflowers is pictured), Jewel DeMoss, Lynne Hanna, Fred Ventura, Jennifer Williams, Janet Yu, Kathleen Hill, Denise Dobson, Ron Sponaugle, Karen Floyd, and others.
For more details, call (805) 709-2281. The Gallery at Monarch Dunes is located at 1640 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo.
Santa Maria Valley
Senior Citizen Club encourages festive hat wearing at next dance concert
Riptide Big Band will provide live music during The Way You Wear Your Hat Dance, at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center in Santa Maria, on Sunday, April 13, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Guests of the event are encouraged to wear their favorite hats, and those who do will be eligible for a special prize giveaway. Admission to the dance, hosted by the Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizen Club, is free thanks to grant funding from the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County. Based in the Santa Maria Valley and led by former music teacher Judy Lindquist, Riptide Big Band includes musicians from both Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties
The group specializes in big band era music, soft rock from the ’60s and ’70s, the music standards of the ’30s and ’40s, and “pretty much anything written for standard big band orchestration,” according to the group’s website.
Thanks to consistent funding from the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County, Riptide Big Band has been providing live dance events with free admission at venues across Central Coast for several years.
To find out more about the upcoming dance and other events featuring Riptide Big Band, call (775) 813-5186 or visit riptidebb.com. The Elwin Mussell Senior Center is located at 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.
For more info on the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County, call (805) 543-2323 or visit cfsloco.org. m
Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
Dynamic duet
Muffin Music co-founders hold free community concerts in Santa Maria and Santa Ynez
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
From an early age, Juilliard alumna Sylvia Jiang began amplifying a rebellious attitude. Despite her family’s affinity for music, she was initially discouraged from taking piano lessons, which of course only strengthened the 4-year-old New Zealander’s resolve at the time.
“My mom was a big classical music fan, but she did not push it on me in any way. [But] we kind of always had music, like different music, playing around the house,” Jiang recalled. “One time we were kind of out and about, I think in some shopping mall or lobby somewhere, and I saw someone playing the piano. … And I was like, ‘Hey I want to play.’”
Jiang’s mother didn’t believe her daughter would enjoy sitting in front of a piano for formal lessons, partly because it was hard to keep her still in general.
“She—because I was a very hyperactive kind of child—was like, ‘Maybe not. I don’t think this is going to go well,’” Jiang said. “I think that maybe, because she said no, I kept bugging her about it.”
Her mom eventually gave in and began teaching Jiang herself. She committed to practicing with her daughter at least once a day.
Jiang’s earliest instructions were “wiggle each finger. … We’re just going to wiggle each finger on the keys, and then, yeah, eventually here I am,” said the professional concert pianist and music instructor.
At 18, Jiang’s acceptance to Juilliard brought her from New Zealand to the U.S. During her college years, Jiang took
on a fellowship with the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, where she mentored and befriended composer Davis Reinhart, who grew up in Buellton and now resides in Los Angeles. Reinhart introduced Jiang—a New Yorker since her Juilliard days—to the Santa Ynez Valley, which became ground zero for a nonprofit initiative the duo embarked on in 2022.
The goal of the program is to help facilitate music-based offerings
for local youth in the valley, through workshops, concerts, and summer camps—programs Reinhart wishes had been available to him growing up.
“I realized by the time I got to college that there truly was a huge gap as far as what was offered by the public school system I had gone through. Only in high school was there ever an opportunity for students to take a band class and actually learn instruments, apart from the recorder,” Reinhart said over email. “Local school districts are constantly struggling to retain music teachers and grow a program. So, Sylvia and I created Muffin Music to really focus on helping support this community through music and try to revamp excitement toward music education.”
Much ado about Muffin For more info on Muffin Music and its offerings, visit muffinmusic.org. Co-founders Sylvia Jiang and Davis Reinhart will present free concert programs on April 11 and 12 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Between April 9 and 12, Reinhart and Jiang will participate in their latest Muffin Music residency program, in which both musicians will visit multiple schools across northern Santa Barbara County to host free demos for students of various grades and ages.
“I’m still working with schools on solidifying all of our visits, but the goal is to visit students in Buellton, Solvang, Lompoc, and Santa Maria,” Reinhart said. “We always try to perform at some capacity, and if that’s not possible, then we will run a workshop of some kind including musical activities for students, or prompt discussions about what professional musicians do.”
During the evenings of April 11 and 12, the duo will perform a free concert program at Unity of Santa Maria and Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Santa Ynez, respectively. They’ve taken part in similar performances since Muffin Music’s start three years ago.
Periodically flown in from New York for these occasions, Jiang described traveling to Buellton and other parts of the valley as stepping into “a little piece of suburban heaven dotted in the middle of all these giant highways.”
“It’s a really friendly place. I’ve always had a great time in the valley,” Jiang said. “So much beautiful nature. … The food is good. The people are nice. There’s lots to do.” m
Send comments and muffin tops to Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MARY BUCHER
at Unity of Santa Maria and Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Santa Ynez,
INSTRUMENTAL ROLE: Originally from New Zealand, New York-based pianist and Juilliard alumna Sylvia Jiang became acquainted with the Central Coast shortly after taking part in a fellowship at Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara. Through the nonprofit Muffin Music, Jiang has frequently helped lead local music workshops and concerts in the area since 2022.
PIANO PERSUASION: Professional piano instructor and concert soloist Sylvia Jiang had to persuade her parents to let her take piano lessons at a young age. Self-described as “a very hyperactive kind of child,” Jiang was adamant about learning piano, and her persistence paid off.
NO PLACE LIKE HOME: Currently based in Los Angeles, professional composer, musician, and Muffin Music co-founder Davis Reinhart grew up in the Santa Ynez Valley. While attending Santa Ynez Valley High School, Reinhart was a member of the school’s jazz club and theater group.
Summer Guide
In his feature-length debut, writer-director Alex Scharfman helms this horror comedy about Elliot Kintner (Paul Rudd) and his teenage daughter, Ridley (Jenna Ortega), who accidently hit a unicorn on their way to Elliot’s boss’ wilderness retreat. (107 min.)
Glen: Lots of little kids love pastel unicorns and their rainbow-colored mane and tail, glittering flanks, and magical golden horns, but do not bring your adorable little cherubs to this film unless you want to scar them for life. These unicorns are bloodthirsty and capable of disemboweling anyone who gets in their way, so when Elliot decides to load the struck unicorn foal into the back of his SUV and continue to his weekend meeting with his billionaire boss, Odell Leopold (Richard E. Grant, gobbling up the scenery as usual), little does he know he’s bringing the wrath of the foal’s parents down upon the entire wilderness compound and everyone in it. It doesn’t take Odell, who’s near death, long to realize the foal has magical therapeutic properties, and soon his cancer is gone and he’s scheming on how to capitalize on his discovery. Well, hang onto your wheelchair, Odell, because hell hath no fury like a unicorn scorned. Anna: Ridley realizes that from touching the foal’s horn, she’s somehow magically connected to the animal. She even has a psychedelic,
HOLLAND
What’s it rated? R When? 2025
Where’s it showing? Amazon Prime
DEATH OF A UNICORN
What’s it rated? R
What’s it worth, Anna? Matinee
What’s it worth, Glen? Matinee
Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards RPX Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande
otherworldly experience that she can’t quite explain to her skeptical dad. That isn’t the only communication issue between the father/ daughter duo. They’ve suffered the loss of Ridley’s mom, and the two just don’t seem to connect over much these days. In fact, this whole trip is concocted so that Elliot can get the Leopold family to sign him as their proxy, and Ridley is there simply to show the Leopolds that Elliot is indeed a “family man.” I’m always excited to see Rudd on a cast list, and Ortega has been killing it in her young career. The Leopolds are smart casting as well. Grant commands the stage, Téa Leoni as the WASP-y wife Belinda is a perfect fit, and their insufferable nepo-baby son, Shepherd, is played by the very funny Will Poulter. However, Anthony Carrigan’s portrayal as house manager Griff truly steals the scene more than once. All in all, it’s a funny cast in this horror-comedy creation. Glen: To stand up for Elliot, it’s true he’s a striver trying to secure his financial stake in Odell’s pharmaceutical empire, but his impetus is to ensure Ridley never wants for anything. She clearly thinks her dad’s a sellout and sees the Leopold clan for the ravenous capitalists that they are, but it’s sort of pathetically sweet watching Elliot struggle to connect and her reject him. He does turn out to be selfless in his actions. You’re right about poor, put-upon Griff.
Carrigan’s timing and facial expressions are perfect, and when we learn Griff puts up with the Leopolds because he’s raising two daughters, it adds another layer to the family dynamics angle. People will do almost anything for their children, and apparently so will unicorns. Ridley, an art history major in college, uses her research skills to learn about unicorn mythology (See! Art history is good for something!) and figures out why mom and dad unicorn are so relentless. Greed is bad, family is good, and respect for nature is tantamount. Good lessons to learn.
Anna: One message the film has is that greed really gets you nowhere. How true that is. The actual world right now may not reflect that, but it’s a nice sentiment to have. This film has a surprising amount of gore, so proceed with caution. Somehow in the end it all feels satisfying, but it’s touch and go whether anyone will get out of this horrific scene alive! m
New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
This psychological thriller features Nicole Kidman as Nancy, a typical small-town teacher with a husband named Fred (Mattew MacFayden) and 13-year-old son named Harry (Jude Hill). The three seem to live a quiet, predictable life in their small town of Holland, Michigan, where the family is preparing for the upcoming yearly tulip festival. But something feels off to Nancy, and Fred seems to be out of town an awful lot. What optometrist speaks at conventions all the time anyway? Nancy forms a bond with fellow teacher, Dave (Gael García Bernal), who she soon convinces to help her look into Fred’s shady activities. Is Fred leading a double life? Does he have another family somewhere that he is visiting? Or are his secrets even darker still?
Nancy and Dave soon become magnetized to each other, and Dave finds himself going to great, dangerous lengths to help Nancy find answers. This is an odd, twisty thriller that strays from the norm, Holland is streaming and ready for your viewing pleasure.
KRAVEN THE HUNTER
What’s it rated? R When? 2024
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Oh, Marvel, what nonsense can’t you spin? Meet Sergei Kravinoff (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), whose father, Nikolai (Russell Crowe), is a Russian gangster. Sergei gets mauled by a lion while protecting his half-brother, Dmitri (Fred Hechinger), but the lion drags Sergei to a little girl who heals him with a magic potion, turning him into an animalistic hunter who kills criminals. He later fights a guy with rhino skin. How did this not kill at the box office?
J.C. Chandor is a gifted writer-director with films such as Margin Call, All is Lost A Most Violent Year and Triple Frontier Here he’s directing a comic book movie with a trio of writers based on characters created by two other writers, and while Kraven the Hunter isn’t as bad as its 15 percent Rotten Tomatoes critics score, it’s also not near as good as its 73 percent audience score.
I’m not sorry for skipping its theatrical run and also refusing to pay for VOD (video on demand), but when it showed up for free on Netflix, I pressed play, wondering if Chandor had made a total flop. No. Kraven is merely
WHAT’D WE HIT? Father and daughter Elliot (Paul Rudd) and Ridley (Jenna Ortega) accidently hit a unicorn, which sets in motion a gory tale of greed and vengeance, in Death of a Unicorn, playing in local theaters.
mediocre. Flip off your brain and see for yourself. (127 min.) m —Glen
PERFECT LIFE: Nancy Vandergroot (Nicole Kidman) lives a routine life in a quaint small town but begins to wonder if her husband is living a double life, in the twisty thriller Holland, streaming on Amazon Prime.
BURNED BY THE CRITCS: Aaron Taylor-Johnson stars as the world’s greatest hunter and vigilante, in Kraven the Hunter, streaming on Netflix.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SONY
Family on tap
Naughty Oak Brewing Company gets nutty with new squirrel mural, affogatos, and soda floats
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
“
There were brief moments that I worried that a 25-foot-long painting of a rodent might be a weird thing to hang in front of a business,” Naughty Oak co-owner Emily Kitts said.
Her doubts were laid to rest, however, once the finished product was revealed on the façade of the Naughty Oak Brewing Company taproom in Old Town Orcutt.
“But once it was completed, it was just a perfect fit. … My first reaction when the mural was hung up was it looks right at home,” she said in an email interview.
The large-scale mural, created by Kitts’ mother and Naughty Oak’s official resident artist, Janis Rockwell, debuted in late March and depicts
the brewery’s beloved mascot—a mischievous squirrel—with wholesome, family-friendly intentions.
Cleverly layered into the nutty mural’s framework are 29 hidden images, patiently waiting to be discovered by viewers of all ages. Anyone who’s able to correctly identify each of them can record their findings via an entry sheet for the chance to win a gift certificate ($100) and a bundle of Naughty Oak merchandise.
The
Depending on age, palate, or both, one person’s $100 worth of craft brews could be someone else’s $100 worth of house-made root beer floats.
“We definitely enjoy our familyfriendly atmosphere, especially since our kids basically grew up there. So having nonalcohol options available is important to us,” said Kitts, who opened Naughty Oak with her husband, Steve, in 2016.
The brewery currently carries two house-made soda options (root beer and berry cream soda), “and since we’re lucky enough to have Orcutt Ice Cream Kitchen’s amazing ice cream at our place, we can make a really awesome root beer float,” Kitts said.
However, her personal favorite vehicle at Naughty Oak for ice cream is a different nonalcoholic option, she revealed. Kitt loves adding “a Little Moo”—aka 4 ounces of ice cream, in Orcutt Ice Cream Kitchen speak—of vanilla to Naughty Oak’s cold brew coffee, for an even colder brew affogato.
Aside from the affogato route, there’s a rotating lineup of seasonal cold foam flavors to pick from.
“Kids and adults also like our hibiscus tea lemonade,” Kitts added. “We haven’t ventured into brewing our own [nonalcohol] Naughty Oak beers, but we keep a selection of popular brands like Athletic Brewing and Patagonia
Kernza available.”
Before Naughty Oak’s new interactive mural was completed, Kitts got ample behind-the-scenes access while her mother painted the large piece—which would have given her a big head start if she wasn’t already ineligible to enter
ART AFTER BARK: Naughty Oak Brewing Company in Orcutt unveiled a new outdoor mural, created by local artist Janis Rockwell, in late March. Observers of all ages are encouraged to take part in a scavenger hunt-style contest (through April 15) to identify 29 hidden images within the mural.
EATS continued page 26
long and winding oak
Naughty Oak Brewing Company is located at 165 S. Broadway St., suite 102, Orcutt. For more info on the brewery’s ongoing mural scavenger hunt contest (open for the public to participate in through April 15), visit naughtyoak.com/contest.
IN GOOD COMPANY: Naughty Oak Brewing Company began as a joint effort for co-owners Steve and Emily Kitts (pictured next to their children, Josephine and Charlie, on the right) and many of their family members. Tom and Andrea Rockwell are on the left with their children, Juliet and Adam, next to K.C. and Janis Rockwell at the center.
FROM MOO TO SHOO-IN: Add a “Little Moo” (or 4 ounces) of vanilla from Orcutt Ice Cream Kitchen to the cold brew coffee at Naughty Oak Brewing Company for an enticing cold brew affogato.
the scavenger hunt herself.
“I did know what many of the hidden items would be and got to see the painting as it progressed. There were [still] a handful of items though that I definitely needed help finding,” Kitts said.
One hint Kitts revealed about the 29 hidden images is that each one represents a certain aspect of the Central Coast. The deadline to participate in the contest is April 15 by 9 p.m. Among the pool of entrants who correctly identify where all 29 images can be found, a grand winner of the gift certificate and merch bundle will be announced on Thursday, April 17.
Over the course of her prominent art career, Rockwell has painted five murals. Those who frequent Santa Maria’s Mobile Nature Center and Observatory, located at Los Flores Ranch Park, become immersed in one of her largest pieces, sprawled across multiple walls and the venue’s ceiling.
“She was always into the arts: performance and visual. She began her visual art career as a sign maker,” Kitts said about her mother.
“Figure painting definitely became her thing, and whimsical, realistic paintings of animals became her primary subject. Her paintings were featured in several galleries before she decided to retire, which was a little bit after the brewery opened up.”
Rockwell also designed all of Naughty Oak’s menu signage, added Kitts, who described the business as a family affair, in the strict sense of the term.
“She—along with my whole family—have been heavily involved and so helpful at the brewery since day one,” Kitts said. “My brother and dad got us set up with our tank temperature control and automation system. My parents built our taster flight boards and most of our tables, and my sister-in-law creates all of our can labels and digital graphics.
“[They’ve] all had a huge part in making the brewery what it is.” m
Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood will take a dozen Little Moos. Send comments to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.
