New Times - March 26, 2026

Rationing water

Hearst Castle’s pool is full, but the visitor center bathrooms are closed due to an old water system [8]

BY CHLOË HODGE

Editor’s note

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Artifacts 20 Split Screen 22 music

Strictly Starkey 23 the rest

Classifieds 28

Brezsny’s Astrology 35

earst Castle State Park hears complaints about its visitor center’s restrooms every day, according to State Parks San Luis Obispo Coast District Superintendent Dan Falat. The center’s bathrooms have been closed for almost four years due to drought restrictions that evolved into a water infrastructure issue. Installed 50 years ago, the system has “aged out” and the state park needs new water infrastructure.

Staff Writer Chloë Hodge writes about the portable toilets dilemma and the park’s water past and future [8]

In addition, read about a Democrat entering the race against Assemblymember Dawn Addis [6]; spray paint art at The Pour House [20]; and birthday cakes that make a difference for youth [26].

I nformative, accurate, and independent journalism takes time and costs money. Help us keep our community aware and connected by contributing today.

www.newtimesslo.com

DECEASED MARCH 13, 2026

In Loving Memory of Arthur Keith Hamilton

Arthur Keith Hamilton passed peacefully on March 13, 2026.  He is survived by his partner of 31 years, Sharie Rouse’, sons Michael and Robert Hamilton, step-daughters Tawnia Perryman and Stefanie Francis. He spent four decades as a local jewelry merchant, most notably as the proprietor of Hamilton Estate Jewelry on Garden Street.  He was a Korean War Army Veteran and will be celebrated at SLO American Legion Post 66 on April 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM.  He was a thoughtful man who loved his grandchildren Shaun, Eden, Bittany, Nika and Shawni and enjoyed helping people, writing poetry, and making a sale. He had lifetime memberships with the NRA, BMW Owners of America, National Association of Jewelry Appraisals, American Legion, Unity Church and Hamilton Clan Society.  His passions included selling jewelry, motorcycle riding, guns, and a good sandwich.   He was a kind man who never strayed far from his Oklahoma roots on Route 66.  He will be missed.

Camillia Lanham editor

cover photo by Pieter Saayman cover design by Alex Zuniga

water

Hearst Castle’s

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Templeton residents block roundabout at Bethel and Vineyard

After months of community concern, Templeton residents successfully blocked a proposed roundabout at the intersection of Bethel and Vineyard, much to the relief of families whose properties would have been directly impacted.

The temporary project would have been funded by a federal safety grant overseen by the county’s Public Works Department, with a budget of $200,000.

“This is a temporary project. … It would be in for one year maximum,” SLO County Public Works Deputy Director John Waddell said during a March 24 Board of Supervisors meeting.

While intended as a trial, the project raised the prospect of a permanent $3 million roundabout that would have required eminent domain for four properties, including the home of Susana and Emiliano Lopez.

The roundabout was part of the broader Vineyard Drive Corridor Project, a long-term planning effort covering Vineyard Drive between Highway 101 and Highway 46. It is intended to guide development, capital projects, and infrastructure improvements along the corridor.

“This is our home, where our children play,” Susana told New Times. “When we realized that the project could lead to eminent domain, it became clear that this wasn’t just a minor improvement, it would disrupt our lives for a minimal problem.”

Susana, her husband, and their neighbors became actively involved in opposing the roundabout. They attended Templeton Area Advisory Group (TAAG) meetings, met with county officials, and organized a Change.org petition that gathered 441 signatures in

SLO resident takes Cal Poly president to court for unreleased frat addresses

Cal Poly’s alleged lack of action when it comes to monitoring fraternities in San Luis Obispo for unpermitted parties hit a crescendo with a city resident suing school President Jeff Armstrong and the California State University board of trustees.

On March 18, former Alta Vista neighborhood resident Kathie Walker filed a petition for writ of mandate demanding Cal Poly release the addresses of registered fraternity-sanctioned events.

“Despite thus maintaining public records that reflect where fraternity events occur within the city, despite a demonstrated and overwhelming interest within the city and community in knowing where those events have occurred and may occur, and despite previously making such information publicly available, Cal Poly has repeatedly refused to fully disclose address information reflected in those public records,” Walker’s petition said.

For years, several residents have asked the city for stricter enforcement and separating Greek life from low-density areas with family homes. They’ve also asked Cal Poly to publish the addresses of all known fraternity houses.

Cal Poly and colleges around California must follow the Campus-Recognized Sorority and Fraternity Transparency Act, also called Assembly Bill 524. The bill requires Cal Poly to collect specific information about its recognized fraternities and sororities and their conduct.

Then, Cal Poly must compile those details into

just a few weeks.

“If there was a real problem, we would be the first ones going to the board and saying we need a solution because we’re the ones that live there,” Susana said.

David Leader, president of TAAG, told New Times that the traffic issues the roundabout aimed to address were limited in scope.

“The intersection sees about three to eight minutes of backup twice a day on school days,” Leader said. “The real bottleneck is the stoplight at 101 and Vineyard, not Bethel. Installing a roundabout here wouldn’t solve the problem, it would just shift it elsewhere.”

Leader also noted safety and practical concerns. The roundabout would have brought traffic closer to private homes, creating potential hazards for children playing in yards and complicating navigation for larger vehicles.

Community opposition was overwhelming at public meetings.

“Out of the many people who spoke at the TAAG meeting, all but one were against the roundabout. People didn’t want eminent domain to be used for a problem that was so minor,” Susana said.

The county Board of Supervisors ultimately voted 4-1 to redirect the grant funding to areas where it might be more urgently needed.

New Times reached out to 1st District Supervisor

a publicly accessible report posted and archived on the internet for a minimum of 10 years. The information must also be sent to all enrolled students through a campuswide email.

Not complying with AB 524’s reporting requirements could spell suspension of campus recognition for a fraternity or sorority.

University spokesperson Matt Lazier previously told New Times that the bill requires the university to collect addresses but only requires publication of specific addresses for events where misconduct has occurred.

He added that Cal Poly chose to withhold addresses because other CSU campuses decided to do so, and the school was concerned about student privacy.

“Cal Poly’s refusal to disclose that information of public importance within the public records in its possession is at odds with the practice of the other colleges and universities in California that routinely release the addresses of school-recognized fraternity events. Its commitment to secrecy frustrates the efforts by Walker and others, including the city itself, to know whether and to what extent—with Cal Poly’s complicity—the law is being ignored and violated in their city,” Walker’s petition read. “And it hinders the city’s effort to enforce municipal regulations and thereby protect its residents’ wellbeing.”

Walker told New Times she began filing public records requests with Cal Poly in 2023. By filing the petition, she said she hopes for transparency.

“In the short term, a court order requiring

John Peschong but did not receive comment before publication.

“I went to the [Board of Supervisors] meeting with my husband, really nervous thinking my voice might not matter. They might not listen. … It was really nice to see some of the supervisors really understand our concerns,” Susana said.

“We just want to express our gratitude to everybody that spoke up and came together as a community of Templeton. So, we’re really proud of Templeton for that.” ∆

—Chloë Hodge

disclosure so that the city can enforce its laws,” she said. “In the long term, I’d like to see Cal Poly revisit the Greek Village idea and give fraternities a proper home and give the neighborhoods back their peace.” After years in Alta Vista and escalating noise disturbances from frat parties, Walker and her husband, Steve, relocated to another neighborhood. They said that chronic sleep deprivation made it unsafe for Steve to work as a first-responder emergency medical services helicopter pilot.

He expressed his concerns at the March 11 Planning Committee meeting where commissioners approved revoking the conditional use permits of two misbehaving frats.

Cal Poly spokesperson Keegan Koberl told New Times that the university can’t comment on pending litigation, but student organization housing is part of the Cal Poly Master Plan—a blueprint on how the university is preparing to improve the campus over the next 20 years. But its timeline remains unknown.

“When Cal Poly is notified of possible violations of the Student Code of Conduct or Recognized Student Organization Code of Conduct, it investigates such allegations,” Koberl said. “An organization’s permit comes from the city, not the university, and does not affect a recognized student organization’s status with the university.”

Meanwhile, Walker is open to working with frats and is in contact with the Sigma Omega chapter of Alpha Epsilon Pi—one of the two frats whose permits were revoked by the Planning Commission.

PROJECT HALTED After months of concern, Templeton residents stopped a $200,000 temporary roundabout at Bethel and Vineyard that could have led to a permanent project requiring eminent domain.

“I believe that the fraternities should lobby Cal Poly,” Walker said. “With that kind of a public-private partnership … where Cal Poly gives them the land, then they can help design their homes and events and venue space that they want to have on campus.”

—Bulbul Rajagopal

East Ranch Community Park remains unbuilt after more than 20 years

More than two decades after the East Ranch Community Park was first proposed, the long-anticipated public space remains largely undeveloped, as financial, regulatory, and operational challenges continue to stall progress.

The property, owned by the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD), was slated for development in the early 2000s as part of the larger Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, with the goal of providing public access, recreation, and open space, CCSD General Manager Matthew McElhenie told New Times. Early plans identified the eastern portion of the ranch for a community park, and the concept has remained part of the long-term vision ever since.

Phase 1, carried out between 2007 and 2017, included grading, drainage improvements, constructing a large parking lot, and relocating the dog park, according to CCSD board documents. Phase 2, finished last year, added a public restroom. Phase 3, which would transform the former rodeo grounds into a meadow with potential recreational features, has yet to move forward. The CCSD didn’t adopt the plan, as presented, at its March 12 board meeting.

“Whenever I think about the community park, I think about families and children playing there,” CCSD board President Harry Farmer said during the meeting. “I can’t imagine not moving forward with this.”

Cambria resident Shannon Sutherland noted that the project has been discussed for almost 30 years and expressed a willingness to help establish a nonprofit to manage funding and maintenance for the park.

The CCSD does not have additional funds for recreation in its general fund, board member Tom Gray noted during the meeting. Board member Debra Scott said the district “cannot spend any more money on recreation,” and Gray added that the facilities and resources department is already stretched.

Oversight and regulatory requirements add another layer of complexity, McElhenie explained. San Luis Obispo County regulates land use and coastal development, and the Friends of the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve hold a conservation easement to ensure that any improvements protect habitat, scenic open space, and the natural character of the preserve. Floodplain considerations further constrain Phase 3, particularly areas proposed for playgrounds, gazebos, and other infrastructure.

McElhenie highlighted the importance of careful permitting in the floodplain, citing delays on the community’s skate park as an example.

“Some of the issues we’re facing currently with the skate park are permitting issues with the county in a floodplain,” he said. “If we adopt a plan and move forward, and then have to do additional things for permitting, that causes

delays and frustration that we have felt for the better part of three years on the skateboard project. You want to permit it correctly and make sure the infrastructure items will be able to withstand that type of flooding.”

He cited past events, including flooding in March 2023, as evidence of the area’s vulnerability.

In a written comment submitted March 7, Christina Galloway said the Phase 3 plan “reads primarily as a conceptual list of potential recreational features rather than a planning study.” She noted that it lacks a recreation needs assessment, cost estimates, and maintenance analysis typically required for long-range park planning. Adopting the plan now, she warned, would establish a policy framework for expansion without fully understanding fiscal, operational, or community needs.

“A potential nonprofit is being explored to fund, build, and maintain park amenities without placing an additional burden on CCSD’s limited general fund resources,” McElhenie said.

He added that such a group could raise private donations, secure grants, and manage operations while complying with all regulatory and easement requirements. Maintenance costs would fall to the nonprofit rather than the district.

—Chloë Hodge

Neighbors appeal 92-unit Arroyo Grande project over parking

The applicant of a housing project with 92 units and a handful of community members opposing it arrived at an Arroyo Grande City Council meeting neither group was prepared for.

What was supposed to be an appeal hearing of the Arroyo Grande Planning Commission’s approval of a conditional use permit for the proposed Creekside Junction homes became a shortened public comment session where people aired their grievances.

Project appellants Pismo Medical Properties LLC, Arroyo Grande Partners LLC, and Ray B. Bunnell Revocable Trust requested that the city postpone the public hearing to a later date. Based on staff’s recommendation, the City Council will hold the appeal hearing on April 14.

Appellant attorney Edwin Rambuski asked for a 30-day continuance in a March 23 letter because the staff report for the item wasn’t posted on the city’s website until the afternoon of Friday, March 20.

“Giving appellants and the public literally one business day (or less) to review it before the March 24, 2026, hearing, introduces and heavily emphasizes the Housing Accountability Act’s ‘deemed complete’ lockin under Government Code § 65589.5(j)(2) as the basis for concluding that certain issues are no longer subject to review,” he wrote.

Creekside Junction will be spread out over two buildings on an almost 2-acre vacant site on James Way. Fifteen percent of its units are meant for people meeting San Luis Obispo County’s Affordable Housing Standards for very lowincome households. The proposed project’s neighbors are Hope Church, medical facilities and offices, the Best Western Casa Grande Inn, and Curl Fitness— some of whom comprise the group appealing the permit awarded to Creekside Junction. The main complaint is parking.

“Contrary to the applicant’s assertions that it has the parking rights to accommodate the project, it cannot deliver adequate, exclusive, or enforceable on-site parking for the 92-unit project as represented,” the appeal read.

The appellants also claimed that the project isn’t subject to a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) exemption because the site abuts Meadow Creek and less than 75 percent of its perimeter adjoins urban uses.

The appeal alleged that the project doesn’t qualify for preferential treatment under housing element law and that an inadequate traffic and circulation analysis took place.

“In addition, in preparation of the hearing, both the hotel and the church pastor have confirmed they have no agreement with the applicant and do not intend to enter into any such agreements,” the appeal said.

Project applicant and former dentist Russell Sheppel has been involved with local controversy before. He sued SLO-based lawyer John Belsher for business dealings in 2018 and 2020.

In 2016, Jonathan Westbay filed a lawsuit against Sheppel, Belsher, and disgraced former SLO development company executive Ryan Wright for breach of contract and property damage related to a development deal in Arroyo Grande. Westbay alleged that Wright and his partners wrote bad checks to pay their share of the mortgage.

In 2014, housing project co-appellant Ray Bunnell—who owns Casa Grande Inn and is one of the landowners who refused to sell their easements that lay along a proposed Bob Jones Trail route—sued Sheppel (then represented by attorney Belsher) and the Kennedy Athletic Club of Arroyo Grande over property easement conflicts.

At the Arroyo Grande City Council meeting, Sheppel said that he had traveled over 2,000 miles to attend the scheduled appeal hearing.

He tried to draw attention to a realtor. com article titled ‘America faces a shortfall of 7.2 million affordable rental homes’ but was unable to complete his comments within the time period.

Because the hearing was no longer on the March 24 meeting agenda, all speakers commenting on the housing project had a minute to voice their opinions—down from the maximum three-minute allotment for agenda items.

Project attorney Chris Guillen expressed opposition to the hearing being postponed.

“It’s been a significant amount of work, time, and cost on behalf of my client to get here today,” Guillen said. “We want to make it clear that this is the fourth hearing on the project under the Housing Crisis Act and there’s only five permitted under state housing law. So, we do anticipate on the 14th, it’ll be the final hearing on the project, and we will receive approval on that day.”

The project received criticism from several clients and employees of Curl Fitness, including group exercise director Lori Riano.

“I oppose this because I think it’s going to take a very important part of people’s lives away,” she said. “I think it’s going to impact the fact that our older population is going to be highly limited by this. The lack of parking, walking, ... it’s detrimental to both their physical and their mental health.”

Bunnell also spoke at the meeting, inviting council members to drive by and examine ways to preserve Meadow Creek, before adding a suggestion for Sheppel.

“Maybe Mr. Sheppel would consider going to the city for a community park and get a real nice tax deduction,” Bunnell said.

—Bulbul Rajagopal

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Batting for blue

been on Brown’s mind for years. Orphaned at 4, the one-time chair of the South County Chamber of Commerce told New Times she spent her early years in an environment where drug abuse and financial hardship were rampant.

Competition is brewing within the Democratic Party in the race to represent the 30th Assembly District.

On June 2, party-line blue voters in the district covering parts of Monterey and Santa Cruz counties and most of SLO County have a choice between incumbent Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay), a former special education teacher and Morro Bay City Council member, and Susannah Brown, a data strategy consultant.

The two Democrats face off against Republican challenger Shannon Kessler in the primary election, and the top two votegetters will be in a runoff in the general.

Brown, a San Luis Obispo mother who was vocal about retaining San Luis Coastal Unified District’s transitional kindergarten (TK) program when it faced being cut as a budget-balancing measure, told New Times that Addis’ response to parental concern was a driving force in her decision to run for office.

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“She said, ‘There’s no funding, but because there’s a lot of advocacy, I’ll still put it up there,’ almost like a Hail Mary. I remember that

“[Navigating homelessness] is actually one of my most valued parts of my identity,” Brown said. “I bring lived experience to this position and all positions that I do, whether it’s volunteer work or school things or community outreach or politics.”

According to her website, she learned that housing stability requires accessible support systems and adults who follow through.

Brown said she was lucky that SLO County “wrapped its arms” around her while she was growing up, with help coming from school counselors, teachers, and grocery workers, among others.

She’s especially grateful for the local chapter of the federal Head Start program—President Lyndon B. Johnson’s free early childhood program for low-income families inspired by John F. Kennedy’s presidential campaign.

“It changed my entire trajectory,” Brown said. “I was able to have a bus pick me up in the morning even if there were no adults present. … I knew once I was at Head Start, I would at least have a little bit of safety for a couple of hours and a meal, a snack, a time to be a kid. I never take that for granted, and I hope that program never ceases.”

With the Trump administration asking Congress to eliminate funding for Head Start and some chapters in California on the verge of closing, Brown wants to prioritize the wellbeing of students, teachers, and school support staff.

“I think the first thing we’ve got to do is prioritize long-term sustainable energy in California and in our region. Diablo’s carbon-free baseload power is essential,” said Brown, whose husband works in the plant’s nuclear operations division. “I don’t think doing these piecemeal one-year, two-year, fiveyear things is sustainable. It needs to be a long-term plan so that the entire system that operates can plan, businesses can upscale, schools can uplift students, technical students can train, Cal Poly and other schools can get engineers prepped for [the] next era of energy workers.”

want to spread herself thin composing bills on a plethora of issues; she’d rather spend more time focusing on a smaller number of topics—housing, energy, schools, and infrastructure.

“I am someone that wants to prioritize local implementation over broad statewide frameworks,” Brown said. “There’s a lot of bills that get put up in [Sacramento]. I don’t think people understand how this process works. … Often, they are based in rhetoric and not really in reality, and the impact of the time and energy that go into writing these bills is not really seen.”

Addis told New Times that she developed and introduced Assembly Bill 1391 to secure funding for the threatened TK program. Working on the bill helped build a coalition of bipartisan support comprising families across California who advocated for more robust financial support.

“I fought for the bill, but it did not get out of committee because of concerns about the state budget. I am continuing to fight for more funding for our schools because, as a classroom teacher and a working mom, I believe that a great education is the most important gift we can give our children,” she said. “My door is always open to Central Coast residents who have ideas, questions, concerns, or a desire to learn more about the legislative process.”

Addis added that she’s currently working to secure the Central Coast communities’ “fair share” of state funding, reduce the cost of living, support public schools, improve health care access, protect the coast and climate, and lower barriers to home ownership.

feeling, like, this is not who I voted for,” Brown said. “This is not the person that I want fighting for our children and our school districts. She was very pessimistic about the outcome.”

In December 2025, after watching a sevenhour-long school board meeting, 37-yearold Brown felt the 30th Assembly District needed someone who’d be “relentless” about advocating to solve its problems.

Her platform is built on championing data-driven public policy, stabilizing school funding, modernizing the electrical grid and preventing cost spikes, improving regional water systems, supporting Diablo Canyon Power Plant operations with transparency and accountability, and alleviating housing instability.

Finding a better housing situation has

Brown, who won the endorsement of 4th District supervisorial candidate and Oceano business owner Adam Verdin, labeled herself as a “business-minded moderate Democrat” compared to the more leftleaning incumbent Addis.

“I’m very influenced by looking around at what our business community is doing, whether it’s succeeding or failing,” Brown said. “How can we make a difference so that we can have people that can afford to live here and send our kids here to school?”

The biggest contrast between herself and Addis, Brown said, is in execution and governance styles. She added that she doesn’t

“I’ve championed important legislation to make utilities more affordable, provide housing for homeless students, improve bilingual education, and help survivors of childhood sexual assault pursue justice,” she said. “I also successfully defeated insurance premium increases for low-income seniors and rejected cuts to our California State University and University of California campuses.

“I am proud of the work I’ve accomplished for the Central Coast, and there is a great deal more to do.”

ANOTHER APPROACH SLO data strategy

consultant Susannah Brown, a moderate Democrat, hopes to clinch the 30th Assembly District seat with lived experience and a deep focus on four topics: housing, energy, schools, and infrastructure.

BROAD SCOPE As the incumbent 30th District Assembly member, former Morro

Water woes

Historic water system challenges force extended closure of Hearst Castle restrooms

Step onto the grounds of Hearst Castle, and you’d expect marble staircases, gilded ceilings, and sweeping views of the Pacific. Instead, your first encounter might be something far less glamorous: a row of large portable toilets right outside of the visitor center.

What was meant to be a temporary solution during the 2022 drought is now a fixture.

California State Parks first closed the restrooms at the Hearst San Simeon Historical Monument Visitor Center in July 2022 as part of stage 3 of its drought contingency plan—the highest level of restrictions, according to Dan Falat, the San Luis Obispo Coast District superintendent for State Parks The closure was prompted by declining spring water production and the need to preserve water for essential operations, including firefighting reserves.

During the height of California’s 2022 drought, state agencies were required to implement contingency plans to reduce water usage. At Hearst Castle, that meant targeting one of the largest sources of consumption: restrooms.

Portable toilets were deployed at the visitor center and nearby Hearst Beach. Irrigation stopped, buses and staff vehicles ceased routine washing, and additional water sources were tapped, a 2022 press release explained.

“We are no longer under those drought restrictions,” Falat said “At this point, it kind of morphed into some infrastructure issues, and we’ve never taken the porta-potties out because we’ve been working through those infrastructure issues.”

Rather than relying on municipal water, Hearst Castle draws from two natural springs east of the property, feeding a gravity-powered network of roughly 33 reservoirs above the castle, Falat explained. Water travels downhill to supply the main house, pools, gardens, and visitor facilities, with treatment occurring on-site before it becomes potable.

“It’s actually a very remarkable system,”

Falat said. “It goes for about 2.5 miles, and everything is gravity fed. There’s no electricity whatsoever.”

The system was created during the early 20th century collaboration between William Randolph Hearst and architect Julia Morgan and has served the property for nearly a century—but age and increasing demand have taken a toll.

The water treatment plant, installed in the 1970s, reached the end of its useful life.

“It had aged out,” Falat said. “We had to replace it before we risked losing the system entirely.”

A temporary system was installed in 2023 to keep the water flowing to the visitor center, staff areas, and concessions— but it struggles during peak visitor months.

Compounding the problem, crews discovered a leak beneath one of the reservoirs that supply the lower portion of the property.

“When the leak is under the reservoir itself, you can’t just patch it,” Falat explained. “You have to identify the exact source and design a long-term solution.”

The sewer system also experienced issues, including root intrusion and stormwater infiltration. While many of these problems have been repaired, they collectively strain the estate’s water supply.

“It’s really supply and demand,” Falat said. “If you run the systems dry, that can be catastrophic failure. The visitor center is a very active place, a lot of water usage, and I think at the end of the day, once we’re able to redesign and update these water systems, we’re going to end up with a much better system.”

According to the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, the state has become increasingly dry since 1895: “From 2012 to 2016, California

experienced the most severe drought on record: 13 of the 30 driest months on record occurred during this period. … Five of the 30 driest months on record occurred in 2021 and 2022.”

At Hearst Castle, these long-term water trends add urgency to modernizing a system designed for bygone era. The estate itself— comprising the 115-room La Casa Grande, guesthouses, pools, and 8 acres of cultivated gardens—relies on this water not only for daily operations but also to preserve its historic and cultural value.

The main house holds Hearst’s art collection and has hosted figures such as Winston Churchill, President Calvin Coolidge, George Bernard Shaw, and Charlie Chaplin.

State Parks is now navigating permitting, environmental review, and design approvals to rebuild the water treatment plant and repair the reservoirs.

“We’re in the final planning stages,” Falat said. “We’ve identified the issues, addressed

some of them, and are now working toward long-term solutions.”

Even the estate’s famous pools are filled by the spring-fed system, though on separate circuits. Renovations in 2017 ensure they can operate efficiently without upsetting the delicate balance of the gravity-fed network.

“We’re trying to be as efficient as possible, whether it’s a drought year or not,” Falat said.

Visitors may find the low-tech toilet solution jarring, but it reflects the realities of managing a landmark where historic preservation, environmental stewardship, and modern infrastructure needs intersect.

“We hear complaints about restrooms every day,” Falat admitted.

“We understand the frustration and appreciate the public’s patience. My hope is that we can reopen permanent restrooms within the next year, but we have to make sure it’s done correctly and sustainably.” ∆

Reach Staff Writer Chloë Hodge at chodge@ newtimesslo.com.

HISTORIC STRAIN Hearst Castle’s visitor center relies on portable toilets as restrooms stay closed due to drought and aging water infrastructure. PHOTO

Hot pink details line the windows and front door of an otherwise unassuming Spanish-style building on El Camino Real, bidding passersby into Velvet Kitty Tattoo Parlour

Since Jan. 31, Brianne “Breezy” Barendt and her all-female staff provide all-body modification piercings, tattoos, and children’s piercings. Younger girls can sit on a “piercing throne” while they get their ears pierced, and they walk away with fuzzy kitty headbands and a little pink bag with piercing aftercare instructions and products.

“Everything’s just really oriented to making a comfort space for women and children,” Barendt said. “Making a space where the trans community feels comfortable, the gay community feels comfortable.”

The name for the store comes from having an all-female staff and curating comfort toward welcoming children.

But Velvet Kitty represents something beyond the floor-to-ceiling pink walls. It’s a culmination of Barendt’s almost 30-year journey in the tattoo industry as a woman and artist.

“It’s a known thing in the tattoo industry that people have what I call ‘tattitude,’” she said. “You walk in and you’re not welcome and you feel like you’re a burden or you’re intimidated because the artist is intimidating.”

After completing a tattoo apprenticeship in 1996 at Morro Bay Tattoo, Barendt said she didn’t get hired due to her gender. Since then, she’s moved around the country opening multiple

tattoo parlors in search of the perfect place.

“This is my eighth tattoo shop, and I finally got it right,” she said. “I took a little something from every shop I ever liked and every shop I built and created this.”

In 1998, Barendt opened Traditional Tattoo in San Luis Obispo. Then she opened Never Enough Tattoo in 2006 in Atascadero and eventually two more locations in Las Vegas and New Orleans over the next 10 years. Within that time, she also tattooed in Costa Rica and Colorado.

After a decade, Barendt returned to Atascadero to work at White Moth Tattoo Company, which she eventually bought and transformed into Velvet Kitty.

“I wanted to bring some New Oreleans, some San Franscico, some Hollywood into Atascadero,” she said. “So we painted the entire place pink.”

Barendt’s intention in developing Velvet Kitty was simple and clear: “no male energy, no male ego.” The tattoo parlor owner’s goal was to have an all-female staff dedicated to customer service and to foster a space where women weren’t being sexually approached or harassed.

“That’s real common in tattoo shops, and I wanted to see an end to it,” she said. “I definitely feel a little pushback from men about it because it’s pink and stuff.”

Barendt said her journey of opening up tattoo parlors on the Central Coast wasn’t easy. The city of Atascadero did not legally permit tattoo parlors until July 2013.

“We have to be 1,000 feet from churches and 1,000 feet from schools, like who are we hurting?” Barendt said. “A huge part of my business is piercing little kids.”

Tattoo parlors aren’t specifically outlined in Atascadero’s Ordinance 297 governing “adult businesses,” though Barendt said the law factored into her struggle to get permitted.

“I wanted to create the ultimate safe space for women because women are 80 percent of our business,” she said. “Children are a huge percentage of our business.”

Barendt and her six staff members are all Association of Professional Piercers (APP) trained to ensure proper cleanliness and sterilization, something Velvet Kitty prioritizes.

“The shop just beams because it’s so clean,

and I wanted to set an example,” she said. “I’m done with dirty. I’m done with dingy.” Barendt said that while the customers they receive are mainly women and children, they’ve welcomed male clients as well. Their feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive based on in-person and online reviews.

“‘I have never felt so comfortable and welcome,’ That’s the biggest response,” she said. That comfort comes from what can be the sacred experience of tattooing—one Barendt fell in love at 17 when she walked into her first tattoo shop and left with some ink, returning for three more tattoos the same month.

“When you tattoo someone, I’m not going to remember them but they’re going to remember me forever,” Barendt said. “It’s an honor that someone is letting me put a tattoo on their body. I need to make it an amazing experience.”

Fast fact

• Morro Bay State Park is seeking volunteers who enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to join the SeaLife Stewards Volunteer Program. After in-person and on-the-water training and evaluation, volunteers paddle the waters of Morro Bay every weekend during the summer promoting responsible wildlife viewing. Applications are due by April 7. For more info, visit parks. ca.gov/?page_id=25420. For questions, reach out to sealifestewards@parks.ca.gov. ∆

Reach Intern Fiona Hastings at ntintern@ newtimesslo.com.

Webhead: Velvet Kitty Tattoo Parlour embodies female energy in Atascadero

strokes-velvet-kitty-3-26 814 words TRACKED

Doctors, we want you to know

We see the choice you made: To believe in possibility, in progress and in purpose. You chose a path rooted in learning, science and a commitment to clinical excellence.

And, we see the choices you make: Every day, ordinary or impossible, to show up for those who need you. Your hands mend the broken and your words steady the uncertain.

You offer those we serve the confidence to hope, to heal and to move forward.

We want you to know how honored we are to stand beside you. How grateful we are for the care that you give, the standards you set and the humanity with which you practice medicine, every single day. We’re proud. Really, really proud. Thank you for being a doctor.

Happy Doctors’ Day.

PROUDLY PINK Brianne Barendt stands outside Velvet Kitty after 29 years of being a tattoo artist.

COURTESY

The case for renewable energy

Trump’s war on Iran inadvertently makes a case for renewable energy.

Without the free flow of tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, we have a crisis. Twenty percent of the world’s oil and gas passes through this strait.

This exposes the depth of our dependence on fossil fuel.

Since the Industrial Revolution in the late 1700s, the use of coal, gas, and oil has become our main source of energy in all aspects of life. It pollutes our planet.

The growing number of high tech and AI companies use even more of our resources, especially potable water as coolant. This will become scarce in a warming Earth. These companies create unique problems by reopening old nuclear plants and building new nuclear reactors, their choice of power. Its volatile, hazardous waste cannot be disposed of in normal landfills.

We’ve known about the threat of a warming planet for decades. Already we have lost our four seasons to extreme temperatures, creating chaotic weather events. Order is essential for life; seasons create that order.

Wars were never fought for the acquisition of solar, wind, and thermal resources, Nature’s non-polluting gifts. Further, mainstream media, by omission, censors information about the threat of climate change. But climate change has arrived—and we must partner with nature’s resources now, to stem our disastrous path toward global suicide.

Shirley Schaffer and Sarah Newfeld-Green Grover Beach

NRC weakens safety oversight at Diablo Canyon

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC) recent decision to exempt Diablo Canyon Power Plant from an independent safety review directly affects whether the plant can continue operating without full expert scrutiny. By waiving review by the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards

(ACRS), the NRC has removed a critical layer of independent oversight at a time when it is needed most.

The ACRS has a long track record of strengthening nuclear safety—raising concerns about reactor aging, reactor vessel embrittlement, and steam generator degradation, and identifying risks in complex digital control system upgrades. Following the Fukushima disaster, the committee played a key role in improving U.S. safety standards, particularly around prolonged station blackouts and emergency preparedness. These are not abstract issues; they are the kinds of interventions that reduce the likelihood of catastrophic failure.

Eliminating this review is not a minor procedural change. It represents a fundamental weakening of safeguards designed to protect the public.

This decision also reflects a broader pattern of declining federal oversight. As the NRC compresses review timelines and sidelines independent expertise, the risks do not disappear—they are shifted onto the public and state governments.

That puts the burden squarely on California. Diablo Canyon sits near seismic faults and is operating beyond its original design life. Under these circumstances, allowing continued operation without the highest level of independent scrutiny is simply not prudent.

California lawmakers must step in where federal regulators are falling short. Public safety should not depend on a diminished review process.

Molly Johnson Templeton

A risky game

How many of us grew up playing the board game, Risk? That game has the goal of global domination by controlling your military to eliminate all opponents by randomly attacking all other countries.

I’m asking because I’m wondering if anyone else thinks this administration is

playing an actual board game of Risk in their War Room in an effort to figure out how to strategize taking over the world. I envision Trump and Hegseth rolling the red dice of the attacker while the defender gets to roll his limited blue dice, which were intentionally limited by the American toymaker to tilt the odds in favor of the attacker. How American. But even with that advantage,

Give now to help future neighbors in need

As our country marks its 250th year, I’ve been thinking about what truly brings communities together. For me, it always comes down to people—neighbors caring for neighbors. In my role as board chair for the American Red Cross Pacific Coast Chapter, I get to see that kindness every day through our lifesaving mission, which has been part of our country’s fabric for more than half of those 250 years.

—R. Demilo

this administration has not been able to agree on a single reason or strategy for their unprovoked attack on a sovereign country, constantly contradicting one another since they sent the first missile.

Does the right hand of this administration even know what the left hand is doing? It’s obvious the right hand doesn’t even know what the right hand is doing. This administration mistakenly concentrates on operational risk, which focuses only on individual battles and tactical short-term actions. The game of Risk focuses on strategic risk, which threatens the overall outcome of the war and national survival. Hopefully, Trump and Hegseth can learn about strategic risk, and quickly before our economy blows up.

I’m also pretty sure that Trump got the idea that Greenland should be his from the game of Risk. On the game board, it’s part of North America. Surely they know the game’s not reality, right? This quote, probably incorrectly attributed to Mark Twain sums it up: “Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people putting us on or by imbeciles who really mean it.”

R. Demilo Arroyo Grande

Every March, we observe Red Cross Month to honor the people who deliver support when help can’t wait. Here in our community, that compassion may be a volunteer comforting a family after a home fire, a blood donor helping a patient they’ll never meet, or a neighbor donating what they can to deliver hope in someone’s darkest hours.

Collectively, the impact is extraordinary. Last year, Red Cross volunteers and supporters helped 363 people displaced by 81 home fires. Behind every number is someone who found relief in a moment of loss or uncertainty.

That’s why, ahead of the next disaster, we’re asking our community to join us on Red Cross Giving Day. By donating now, you help ensure we can stock warehouses with relief supplies, train volunteers, and open shelters at a moment’s notice. A gift of any size truly makes a difference. And if you’re unable to give financially, you can support our mission by volunteering. Together, we can make sure no family faces an emergency alone. We invite everyone to be part of our mission. Visit redcross.org/givingday to learn how you can help. When we care for one another, we pass forward the best of who we are—to the next generation and beyond.

Sabrina Ashjian board chair Red Cross Pacific Coast Chapter

HODIN

Russell Hodin

Time to check the oil

It has become clear that the guiding principle of the Trump administration is, “Anything for a buck.”

This is starkly displayed by its attacks on environmental and public health in the name of corporate profit—an attack that is now converging on the Central Coast of California like an oil slick approaching from three directions.

First, a textbook example of federal abuse of power: The Santa Barbara County Sable Offshore Corp. oil pipeline saga.

Over the last year, Sable has been pushing to restart the defective oil pipeline system that caused the 2015 Refugio Beach oil spill—which travels through the Santa Barbara Channel, along the Gaviota coast, and cuts north through Santa Barbara County, before running east along the Cuyama River watershed to Kern County. The push has been so aggressive that Sable accrued multiple felony charges, lawsuits, a restraining order, and an $18 million fine.

This month the Trump administration gave Sable a greasy gift: an executive order invoking the Defense Production Act, decreeing that Sable can ignore state laws, public safety, and federal courts in the name of “national security.” Consequently, on March 16, Sable announced that it will begin pumping oil across coastal waters and through Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Kern counties despite ongoing lawsuits and public opposition.

The Trump administration claims that Sable’s oil is needed to ensure “West Coast military installations have the reliable energy critical to military readiness.” But the oil produced by Sable almost certainly won’t be used in the United States because oil produced in the U.S. is predominantly sold and refined overseas.

State agencies responded with a hell no! And U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) summed it up: “President Trump is using the war in Iran as a pretext to override the will of Santa Barbara County residents and the state of California. I will continue to fight this federal overreach in Congress and stand with our local partners as they pursue legal challenges in court.”

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has proposed expanding oil and gas drilling on 850,000 acres of public lands across Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Kern, and Ventura counties, including lands adjacent to Yosemite National Park; Carrizo Plain National Monument; the Los Padres, Sierra, and Sequoia national forests; and state and county parks and beaches.

The BLM’s initial environmental impact statement was inadequate and out of date. Due to these insufficiencies, the court ordered the BLM to draft a supplemental environmental impact statement. As the Sierra Club and 48 other environmental and public interest groups told the BLM, the new draft failed to fix many of the problems that triggered the initial lawsuit. It downplayed or ignored air pollution impacts on communities and miscalculated climate impacts and impacts to biological resources, recreation, wilderness, and areas of critical environmental concern. We are still awaiting the final draft, which needs significant improvements, including evaluation of reasonable alternatives,

avoiding sensitive areas, and respecting state and local protections, reflecting current public health, environmental, and conservation requirements.

The third oil attack comes from Trump’s Department of the Interior. It is attempting to vastly expand offshore drilling (after rolling back the safety measures that were implemented after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster).

As with the Sable pipeline, California is not taking this lying down. State Sen. John Laird’s (D-Santa Cruz) Senate Joint Resolution 12 opposes Trump’s offshore drilling expansion efforts. The resolution proposes that the California Legislature declare “unequivocal support for the current federal prohibition on new oil or gas drilling in federal waters offshore of the Pacific Coast, its opposition to the proposed five-year National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program or any attempts to modify that prohibition, and its determination to consider any appropriate actions to maintain the current prohibition.”

Sen. Laird’s resolution also requests the Department of Interior implement the typically required environmental impact statement and public comment periods, as the Trump administration has indicated no plans of providing either.

California’s congressional delegation has sent the Trump administration a similar message in adamant opposition of offshore oil and gas drilling expansion.

You have the power to push back, too:

• If you act before March 30, you can submit a comment opposing the Trump offshore oil expansion plan at saveourshores.org/drilling.

• Thank Congressman Carbajal and Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Monterey) for opposing Trump’s abuse of the Defense Production Act by calling the Capitol switchboard: (202) 224-3121.

• If you live outside of SLO County, ask the Congressperson who represents your district to oppose the Defense Production Act and Sable restart if they aren’t already.

Now is the time to keep up the pressure. History and the majority of Americans agree: Oil threatens public health and our environment. It’s time to move toward an oil-free future. ∆

Gianna Patchen is chapter coordinator for the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club. Andrew Christie served as chapter director from 2004 to 2023. Send a letter for publication to letters@newtimesslo.com.

Smog Check

COMPLETE TESTING & REPAIR

Wrongabout

How do you feel about roundabouts? Some people absolutely hate them, despise them, loath them, maybe because they require active judgment to navigate. Some people would rather simply be told when to stop (red light, stop sign) or when to go (green light) or when to go faster (yellow light! Step on it!).

Well, here’s some good news for roundabout-hating Templetoners or Templetonites or Templetonians. The proposed Vineyard and Bethel Safety Demonstration Roundabout Project wasn’t approved by the SLO County Board of Supervisors, who didn’t even try to cast a vote due to—I’m guessing—the massive public outcry against the project.

Public wrath? No thanks! Some of us have elections coming up!

According to 5th District Supervisor Heather Moreno in an email thread with so many recipients I think it might be to every single person in Templeton, “There was no vote on the roundabout as it didn’t have support of four supervisors. The 4-1 vote was to seek another location in the county that could use the federal funding for a temporary roundabout.”

Oh shit! Did you hear that, Templeton? There are federal bucks to be spent, which means whether you want a roundabout or not, one is coming! Hopefully not in Templeton, but you can bet it’ll come to some other unincorporated part of the

county. There’s got to be a place to put one where people won’t be pissed off, right? I mean, federal dollars! Have you ever met a politician willing to leaving money on the table? It’s got to be spent!

What’s interesting is many of the BOS letter writers—Debra Logan, Michael Manchak, Sarah Andrus, David Leader, Don Rasmussen, Karen and Brian Strysko, etc., etc.—argued the project was a waste of taxpayers’ money, but some of it was federal money, and since California is a donor state that pays more in federal taxes than the federal government spends in California, Californians want as much of our money back as possible, even if it means building a roundabout to nowhere in a cow pasture, dammit. It’s our money after all.

Some letter writers also argued the roundabout was a “temporary” solution that would later require a “final” solution. Final solution?!? Oh shit! Ominous, no? Also, the roundabout would require space on private property, and you know how the North County feels about property rights, yeehaw! Bang-bang! Oh, and the intersection at Vineyard Drive and Bethel Road is only busy when schools are in session in the mornings and afternoons, and the delay’s only 3 to 5 minutes “at most.” So, no big deal. Sounds like people really don’t want this

G TITUDE!

roundabout, and the whole roundabout idea sounds like it’s a solution in search of a problem. Anybody out there need a “temporary solution” to a traffic congestion problem that will be partially paid for with federal money? Anyone?

Speaking of temporary solutions, Hearst Castle’s bank of portable toilets in front of the visitor center may be here to stay … at least for a while longer. They were installed— temporarily—in July of 2022 during California’s historic drought. Now they’re all that’s available for the foreseeable future.

When architect Julia Morgan designed Hearst Castle, she included 60 bathrooms throughout the four main buildings, which is a lot of freaking bathrooms. Seems very ironic now that the property’s aging, overtaxed water system can no longer sustain the usage needed.

“We hear complaints about restrooms every day,” State Parks San Luis Obispo Coast District Superintendent Dan Falat said. “We understand the frustration and appreciate the public’s patience. My hope is that we can reopen permanent restrooms within the next year, but we have to make sure it’s done correctly and sustainably.”

The “public’s patience”? Dan is adorable. Anyway, for now one of the amenities that comes with your $35 tour ticket is unlimited use of portable shitters! Sweet!

Speaking of a lack of “public patience,” neighbors of two new proposed residential buildings in Arroyo

Grande are howling mad because of the project’s density and lack of parking, which they say will negatively impact surrounding businesses, customers, and clients.

“I oppose this because I think it’s going to take a very important part of people’s lives away,” said Lori Riano, group exercise director at nearby Curl Fitness. “I think it’s going to impact the fact that our older population is going to be highly limited by this. The lack of parking, walking, ... it’s detrimental to both their physical and their mental health.”

Yeah, old people shouldn’t have to park and walk a long distance to get to their exercise class! Come on! And really, when you think about the lack of affordable housing, only 15 percent of the 92 multi-family residential units were designated for people who meet the county’s Affordable Housing Standards for Very Low Income households, which means only, like, 13.8 low-income families might not get housed in this project.

For those in the pro-development and proaffordable housing camps, don’t fret yet. The project isn’t dead, merely postponed as the various interested parties work through their differences and await their turn to make their case before the Arroyo Grande City Council

In the meantime, let’s all sit back and enjoy the sweet smell of all the public patience, er, I mean porta-potties.

The Shredder refuses to yield to oncoming traffic. Brake check it at shredder@ newtimesslo.com.

Hot Dates

ARTS

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY

Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint. com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.

COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. ThursdaysSaturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. (559) 799-9632. costagallery. com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE

PRESENTS “PACIFIC LIGHT” AN OIL PAINTING GROUP SHOW “Pacific

Light” features fine art oil paintings by Joan Brown, Carol Astaire, and Patricia Newton in Gallery at Marina Square. Through March 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE

PRESENTS CARY LARSON-MCKAY,

EXHIBITING MIXED MEDIA SMALL

WORKS See mixed media small works by

Cary Larson-McKay, watercolor, collage, and more in the Craft Atelier Space in Gallery at Marina Square. Through March 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS NANCY JENSEN’S WATERCOLORS AND LAURA MURPHY’S ACRYLICS See watercolors capturing Central Coast harvests, beaches, wildflowers, and rolling hills paired with expressive abstract acrylics where light and form breathes and moves. April 1 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS OCEAN’S EDGE - A PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP EXHIBITION

Explore beautiful coastal photography featuring dramatic waterscapes, golden sunsets, and bright landscapes from across California’s Central Coast and the Pacific Ocean. April 1 -29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS TERESA FERGUSON, FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY Central Coast photographer Teresa Ferguson exhibits majestic landscapes of the central coast in the Upper Gallery at Gallery at Marina Square. Through March 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE

PRESENTS: GRANT KREINBERG &

LORA SALVADOR, PHOTOGRAPHY

Discover a fine art photography exhibition by Grant Kreinberg & Lora Salvador in the Upper Gallery in Gallery at Marina Square. Through March 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. ongoing (805) 772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

VIEW ARTISTIC STATIONS OF THE CROSS AT ST. BENEDICT’S Chloe White’s relief sculptures convey the physical and emotional experiences of Christ and his loved ones to connect us more deeply with our faith. Tuesdays, 2-5 p.m. through March 31 Free. (805) 5280654. stbenslososos.org/. St. Benedict’s Church, 2220 Snowy Egret Ln., Los Osos.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

INDIGO DYE WORKSHOP WITH FELISE GUTIERREZ Learn the art of natural dyeing. Upcycle well-loved garments or thrifted finds while creatively and joyfully “resisting” a culture of consumption. March 28 , 2-5 p.m. $80. (971)645-2481. fieldworkart.org.

DATE NIGHT Couples or friends, bring a bottle of wine and enjoy a creative night out. Have fun and get messy as the venue walks you through the basics of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Fridays, 6-8 p.m. $144. (805) 203-0335. thepotteryatascadero.com/datenight. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.

MEET THE ARTIST JUAN FUENTES Juan Fuentes, a linocut artist, will be at the Pocket to share his work with you. March 28 2-5 p.m. (805) 440-7152. juanrfuentes. com. Pocket Gallery on Pine, 8491/2 13th Street, Paso Robles.

MONTHLY BIRTHDAY PLATE PAINTING AT ARTSOCIAL 805 Please join ArtSocial805 on the first Saturday of each month to paint a personalized “Birthday Plate,” for someone special or for yourself. The workshop is $35, which covers the plate, glaze, and firing. First Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. $35. (805) 400-9107. artsocial805. com. ArtSocial 805 Creative Campus, 631 Spring St., Paso Robles.

SILVER SAND CASTING WORKSHOP WITH BRAD GOLDEN Experience the thrill of transforming molten silver into wearable art and leave with a finished sterling silver piece of your own creation! March 28 , 12:30-3:30 p.m. $175. (805) 423-5906. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles, studiosonthepark.org.

STUDIOS ON THE PARK: CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS Check site for a variety of classes and workshops offered. ongoing studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles, (805) 238-9800.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES

Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus exposure to Los Angeles talent agents. All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher

EASTER EATS

Enjoy a festive spread during an oceanfront Easter brunch buffet on Sunday, April 5, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Cliffs Hotel and Spa in Pismo Beach. The event features prime rib and farm-to-table salads, along with handcrafted cocktails, live music, and visits from the Easter Bunny. Tickets are $120 per person. Head to my805tix.com for a detailed itinerary.

—Angie Stevens

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.

BENEFIT PREVIEW PERFORMANCE OF WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF

SLO REP will host a preview performance of the Tony Award-winning play to benefit AAUW Atascadero scholarships and other programs. March 26 7-10 p.m. $50. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

BUILD A JUNKBOT WORKSHOP WITH JUNKGIRLS Build a one-of-a-kind JunkBot using vintage and found objects like gears, keys, and metal bits. Assemble, customize and name your robot. March 28 $110. (805) 439-0123. junkgirls.com. JunkGirls, 870 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo.

CONJURING WONDER—MAGIC: UPCLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH DENNIS KYRIAKOS AT HOTEL SLO Hotel San Luis Obispo welcomes Conjuring Wonder, Magic: Up-Close and Personal, an immersive evening of illusion featuring master magician Dennis Kyriakos. March 28 6-9 p.m. $115. conjuringwonder.com. Hotel San Luis Obispo, 877 Palm St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 235-0700.

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.

FREE DOCENT TOURS Gain a deeper understanding of the artwork on view with SLOMA’s new docent tours. Every Saturday, join trained guides for interactive and engaging tours of SLOMA’s current exhibitions. Saturdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma. org/visit/tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

IMPROV EXTRAVAGANZA AT THE BUNKER Get ready for a whirlwind of wit, chaos, and unscripted brilliance at Improv Extravaganza — back to back sets

of small teams and big laughs. March 26 6-8 p.m. $10 -$15. (805) 858-8255. centralcoastcomedytheater.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, 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. LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/ dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. (805) 4418257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.

MAGICANS CLUB This is a non-profit club where magicians from the local areas meet, exchange, share magic ideas, and showoff. Last Monday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Free. (805) 720-1164. SLO Elks Club, 222 Elks Lane, San Luis Obispo. 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. VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors. To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo. com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO

On

SHOW

PHOTO COURTESY OF MY805TIX

display now through mid-April. ongoing slogallery.com/. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?

This timeless drama challenges audiences to confront the complexities of love, communication, and the human desire for connection, making it a profoundly unforgettable experience. Fridays, 7-9 p.m., Saturdays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m., Sundays, 2-4 p.m. and Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. through April 9 $28-$47. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/shows/whos-afraidof-virginia-woolf/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AS YOU LIKE IT AGHS Theatre Company

presents As You Like It March 27, 7-9:15

p.m., March 28 , 7-9 p.m., March 29 2-4 p.m., April 2 7-9 p.m., April 3 7-9 p.m. and April 4 7-9 p.m. $17. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Pioneer Valley High School Center Stage Theatre and Dance Company presents Fiddler on the Roof March 26 , 7-9 p.m., March 27, 7-9 p.m. and March 28 , 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. $25.50$30.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

ROB SCHNEIDER: RESCUE HUSBAND

A stand-up comic and veteran of the award-winning NBC sketch comedy series Saturday Night Live, Schneider continues his world-wide standup tour. April 4 7:30 p.m. $49-$129. (805) 4899444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SLO POET LAUREATE CALEB NICHOLS PRESENTS AT THE NIPOMO LIBRARY IN CELEBRATION OF NATIONAL POETRY

MONTH Celebrate Poetry Month with a reading by the San Luis Obispo County Poet Laureate, Caleb Nichols, at the Nipomo Library. April 4 , noon Free. (805) 929-3994. coastaldunescwc.com. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.

WILD ABOUT HARLOE: HARLOE

ELEMENTARY TALENT SHOW Come and see all of the talent that Harloe Elementary Roadrunners have on display this year. April 2 4:30 & 7 p.m. $8. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

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.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY CENTRAL COAST UECHI-RYU KARATEDO Uechi-Ryu Karate-do is a traditional form of karate originating from Okinawa, Japan. Focus is on fitness, flexibility, and self-defense with emphasis on self -growth, humility, and respect. Open to ages 13 to adult. Beginners and experienced welcome. Instructor with 50 years experience. For info, call 805-215-8806. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278, morro-bay.ca.us.

CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom). For information, call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654.

LEARN TO SAIL AT MORRO BAY YACHT CLUB! Learn to sail at the Morro Bay’s only sailing school: Morro Bay Yacht Club. These sessions are led by competent, responsible sailing instructors. Expect a great experience, with the goal of each student being comfortable in commanding their own sailboat. There’s a focus on teamwork, developing leadership skills, and having fun. Through Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $450. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Yacht Club, 541 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, (805) 772-3981.

SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP Have a topic, book, or article you wish to discuss with interested and interesting people? Join this weekly meeting to discuss it, or simply contribute your experiences and knowledge. Contact Mark Plater for instructions on entering the Chapel area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon (805) 528-7111. Coalesce Garden Chapel, 845 Main St., Morro Bay.

COLOR CURRENTS

Artist Laura Murphy is one of the April featured artists at Gallery at Marina Square in Morro Bay, whose abstract acrylic paintings will be on display from Wednesday, April 1, until Wednesday, April 29. View her work that invites onlookers to spend a long time with the swirling colors and forms. The gallery is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. More details can be found at galleryatmarinasquare.com.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi gong offers great anti-aging benefits, providing a comprehensive system for improving physical, mental and emotional health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin Wallace. Call first. Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. (805) 709-2227. Hardie Park, Ash Ave. and B St., Cayucos. Qi gong offers great antiaging benefits, providing a comprehensive system for improving physical and mental health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin Wallace. Call first for info and exact location. Fridays, 9-10 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227. inner-workings.com. Los Osos, Townwide, Los Osos.

TAI CHI BASICS Visit site for more details on this ongoing, weekly Tai Chi program. Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $10-$12. (805) 772-7486. fitnessworksmb. com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

YOGA PLUS A hybrid of yoga and “stretching” techniques that yield a body that moves and feels amazing. Mondays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $10 per session. (415) 516-5214. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

march 13 ~ April 25 th th

ZEN IN MOTION Learn the Shaolin Water Style and other deep breathing and moving meditation techniques with the 2019 Taijiquan Instructor of the Year. Beginners Welcome.Instructor Certification Courses available. Mondays, Wednesdays Call for details. (805) 7017397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY BALANCE FLOW Suitable for all levels. This class is meant to benefit the mindbody connection while emphasizing safe and effective alignment as well as breath awareness and relaxation. Please call to register in advance. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $16-$22; $50 membership. (805) 434-9605. ttrtennis.com/fitness/ yoga/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton. CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous is a 12-step fellowship of men and women. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy and loving relationships. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. (805) 221-5755. Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires

to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Tuesdays, noon-1 a.m. Free. (760) 846-1443. North County Connection, 8600 Atascadero Ave., Atascadero.

COMMUNITY MOVIE NIGHT

FEATURING HIDDEN FIGURES Enjoy this community movie night featuring Hidden Figures , celebrating courage, unity, and perseverance. Freely offered gathering with refreshments, reflection, and meaningful connection. All are welcome. March 27, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. awakeningways.org. Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living, 7350 El Camino Real, Ste. 101, Atascadero, (805) 391-4465.

EASTER CELEBRATION SERVICE AT AWAKENING WAYS CSL Celebrate Easter with family-friendly fun, including a kids’ Easter egg hunt and activities with Sonia, and festive Easter bonnets during our Sunday Gathering. April 5 10-11:30 a.m. Free. (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.org. Pavilion on the Lake, 9315 Pismo Ave., Atascadero.

GODDESS GROUP Please join Oracle Owner/Intuitive Medium, Tiffany Klemz, for this twice monthly, Goddess Group. The intention of this group is to curate connection, inspiration, unity, and empowerment. Every other Tuesday, 6:30-8 p.m. $11. (805) 464-2838. oracleatascaderoca.com. Oracle, 6280 Palma Ave., Atascadero.

HAMBLY LAVENDER FARM GUIDED

EXPERIENCE This one-hour walk about the farm immerses you in the processes of growing, harvesting, and drying this fragrant herb. Saturdays, Sundays, 10 a.m. my805tix.com. Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel.

NAR-ANON: FRIDAY MEETINGS

A meeting for those who know or have known a feeling of desperation concerning the addiction of a loved one. Fridays, 12-1 p.m. Free. (805) 4412164. North County Connection, 8600 Atascadero Ave., Atascadero.

ROOTS TO WINGS Join the annual fundraiser that benefits Santa Lucia School in Templeton. There will be food, a raffle, and luxury auction items. March 29, 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $100. (805) 4342217. santaluciaschool.org. McPhee’s Grill, 416 S. Main St., Templeton.

TOPS SUPPORT GROUP: WEIGHT LOSS AND MAINTENANCE A self-help support group focusing on weight loss and maintenance. Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. (805) 242-2421. tops.org. Santa Margarita Senior Center, 2210 H St., Santa Margarita.

TOPS TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY Join for affordable and effective weight-loss support. Sundays, 10-11 a.m. through Oct. 31 First visit is free. (805) 234-1026. Rancho Del Bordo Clubhouse, 10025 El Camino Real, Atascadero, tops.org.

TRIVIA NIGHT AT TEMPLETON

MERCANTILE Join every Tuesday night for all-ages trivia. Prizes are awarded to top teams. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. Templeton Mercantile, 508 S Main St, Templeton.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BUNNY TRAIL Enjoy family-friendly springtime fun! Bring the kiddos downtown to collect treats from downtown businesses and meet the Downtown Bunny! April 2 6-8 p.m. downtownslo.com/events/bunnytrail. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.

CENTRAL COAST CONJURERS (SLO COUNTY MAGIC CLUB) Monthly meeting of magicians of all levels. Please call or email for more info. Meet like-minded folks with an interest in magic, from close-up to stage performances. Last Monday of every month, 6:30 p.m. Free. (805) 440-0116. SLO Elks Lodge, 222 Elks Lane, San Luis Obispo.

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. CEREMONY SKATE SHOP ANNIVERSARY SHOW March 28 3 p.m.

$12.56. my805tix.com. Ceremony Skate Shop, 1235 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. DANCING IN THE PLAZA: SALSA EDITION Enjoy free salsa lessons in the plaza at the SLO Public Market, where you will learn beginner-friendly salsa, perfect for anyone looking to try Latin Dancing. April 4 1-2:30 p.m. Free. nexusslo.com. Nexus SLO, 3845 S Higuera St.( Lower Level), San Luis Obispo, (805) 904-7428. FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and importance to the development of this area. Tours are led by docents and meet in front of the church Sundays, 2:30 p.m. and Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15 p.m. Free. (805) 550-7713. missionslodocents.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 17

Just as young noble Jane is ready

as

Jane

Just as young noble Jane is ready to

Professional Live Theatre! Fun for ages 5 to 105! (805) 489-2499

Tuesday

Just as young noble Jane is ready to tie the knot, she's whisked away by "The Nameless Piratess," the most infamous lady pirate on the seas! Together, they set sail on a

the

or

the knot, she's whisked away by "The Nameless Piratess," the most infamous lady pirate on the seas! Together, they set sail on a wild quest to unearth a witch's treasure on a treacherous island. But here's the real question: Will Jane be rescued, or will she ditch her bridal gown for a swashbuckling pirate's

Just as young noble Jane is ready to tie the knot, she's whisked away by "The Nameless Piratess," the most infamous lady pirate on the seas! Together, they set sail on a

question: pirate's hat and chase after enchanted

Just as young noble Jane is ready to tie the knot, she's whisked away by "The Nameless Piratess," the most infamous lady pirate on the seas! Together, they set sail on a wild quest to unearth a witch's treasure on a treacherous island. But here's the real question: Will Jane be rescued, or will she ditch her bridal gown for a swashbuckling pirate's hat and chase after enchanted riches? Yo-ho-ho, the plot thickens!

PHOTO COURTESY OF LAURA MURPHY

Jim Glines Memorial College Rodeo

SATURDAY, MARCH

Brass Mash First Friday: Prom-ish III

FRIDAY, APRIL 3

Ceremony Skate Shop Anniversary Show

SATURDAY, MARCH 28

Ceremony Skate Shop, SLO

SUNDAY, MARCH 29 The

Santa Maria

TUESDAY, MARCH 31

Avila Beach

FRIDAY, APRIL 3

The Motet w/ Michael Wilbur Of Moon Hooch

Rock, SLO

Science After Dark

Central Coast Aquarium,

Cisco Adler Live at Libertine

Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

Oddfellows Hall, SLO

FRIDAY NIGHT MAGIC THE GATHERING

Friday Night Magic is where legends rise! Bring your deck, meet fellow Planeswalkers, and battle it out in epic MTG duels. Fun, prizes, glory! Fridays. through May 2 Free. (805) 544-6366. facebook.com/even ts/592253119822089/592256636488404.

Captain Nemo Games, 565 Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo.

FUNCTION AT OCTAGON BARN Enjoy community fun, dancing, a sound plunge, organic snacks & BBQ appetizers, prizes, and more. April 4 , 6-9 p.m. $30. my805tix. com. Octagon Barn, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 459-9584.

GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK

Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free with $5 Garden Entry. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

LUNCHTIME IN THE GARDEN UC

Master Gardeners of SLO County extend an invitation to the public to visit our demonstration garden. See what’s in bloom and learn something new.

First Wednesday of every month, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Sept. 2 Free. (805) 781-5939. ucanr.edu. Garden of the Seven Sisters Demonstration Garden, 2156 Sierra Way, San Luis Obispo.

NO KINGS III RALLY AND SIDEWALK

MARCH Join for the No Kings III rally and sidewalk march with speakers, music, booths, and fun for the whole family. March 28 , 10 a.m.-noon Free. San Luis Obispo County Courthouse, 1050 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (866) 2499475, slocourts.net.

PARKOUR CLINIC Parkour offers a path to social confidence. Come flip with flair in a safe, nurturing environment at the parkour clinic, for ages 7 to 17 years. April 4 1-3 p.m. $25. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB

MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen. org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

SPRING FAMILY FIELD DAY ON THE

RANCH Join us for an afternoon filled with farm animals, easter egg hunts, a gourmet lunch with La Lomita Wines, ice cream, and games for all! April 4 , 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $45-$85. (805) 706-8034. lalomitawines.com. La Lomita Ranch, 1985 La Lomita Way, San Luis Obispo.

SPRING FLING Join the SLO Bunny for their annual egg hunt at Meadow Park this spring. Please bring your own basket! April 4 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. slorecactivities.org. Meadow Park, 2251 Meadow St., San Luis Obispo.

SPRING OPEN HOUSE Take advantage of this rare chance to set foot inside the mostly unrestored La Loma Adobe, part of which was constructed in 1782. There will be guided tours, outdoor displays, and light refreshments. March 29 , 2-4 p.m. Free. facebook. com/search/top?q=friends%20of%20 la%20loma%20adobe. La Loma Adobe, 1590 Lizzie St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 528-1066.

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) 540-6576. 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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

37TH ANNUAL EGG HUNT AND FESTIVAL Join the 37th Annual Egg Hunt and Festival at Elm Street Park. April 4 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org. Elm Street Park, 1221 Ash St., Arroyo Grande.

BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. ongoing Starts at $70. (805) 835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.

BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:156:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. (970) 710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.

Send event information to events@newtimesslo.com or submit online.

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.

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. EGG-STRAVAGANZA This family friendly event includes egg hunts, bounce houses, cames, crafts, and more! April 4 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 773-7063. Dinosaur Caves Park, 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach.

MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS

FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

NO KINGS III RALLY GROVER BEACH

Join the peaceful No Kings sidewalk rally. Bring your creative signs and a voice to chant. March 28 10 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 260-4137. mobilize.us. No Kings Rally Grover Beach, Corner of Grande Ave and Oak Park Blvd, Grover Beach.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE

TOURS A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse. org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 18

San Luis Obispo Spring Wedding Expo

Madonna Expo Center, SLO

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) 4404561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach.

SILENT AUCTION TO BENEFIT AN ORPHANGE All proceeds from this threeday silent auction support an orphanage in Kenya--buying school uniforms, paying tuitions, hiring tutors and purchasing computers. March 27 10 a.m.-8 p.m., March 28, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and March 29, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. Natural Toolbox, Suite 127, Pismo Beach Premium Outlets, Pismo 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) 4816399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

FOOD & DRINK

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

EASTER BRUNCH IN THE GARDEN

Enjoy a delightful Easter Brunch in the Garden at Cambria Pines Lodge, where lush greenery and blooming flowers create a picturesque backdrop for your

celebration! April 5 , 12-3 p.m. $58. (805) 927-4200. cambriapineslodge. com. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.

MORRO BAY MAIN STREET FARMERS

MARKET Get fresh and veggies, fruit, baked goods, sweets, and handmade artisan crafts. Come have some fun with your local farmers and artisans and enjoy delicious eats while enjoying the fresh breeze of Morro Bay. Saturdays, 2:30-5:30 p.m. Varies. (805) 824-7383. morrobayfarmersmarket.com. Morro Bay

Main Street Farmers Market, Main Street and Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

2026 ALTERNATIVE TASTES WINE FEST: CELEBRATING PASO’S UNIQUE VARIETIES Join for the third annual Alternative Tastes Wine Fest, a celebration of Paso Robles’ rare and remarkable grape varieties. March 28 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $66.12-$92.90. my805tix. com. Pavilion on the Lake, 9315 Pismo Ave., Atascadero.

CLUB CAR BAR TRIVIA WITH DR. RICKY

Teams of one to six people welcome. Visit site for more info. Wednesdays, 7-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.

A PROGRESSIVE POUR PARTY Join for a celebratory party showcasing the full breadth of our Spring Release, complete with live music by local favorites Five Parts Devil. March 29 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $40. (805) 237-1245. mcpricemyers.com. McPrice Myers Wine Company, 3525 Adelaida Rd., Paso Robles.

TACO TUESDAYS La Parilla Taqueria will be in the courtyard serving up their delicious tacos and tostadas. Menu typically includes barbacoa, chicken, and pastor tacos, as well as shrimp ceviche tostadas. Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. (805) 460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden.com.

Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

CELEBRATE EASTER WITH PIADINA’S FARM-FRESH EASTER BRUNCH

BUFFET Celebrate Easter Sunday with a farm-fresh buffet at Piadina, the on-site restaurant at Hotel SLO, crafted by executive chef Ryan Francher. April 5 , 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $38- $72. Piadina, 877 Palm St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 592-1510.

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo. PIÑATAS ON THE PATIO What is more festive than a piñata? Join for some brunch drinks and a couple of good hits to a piñata (or two). Good times and goofy prices promised. Turns will be determined on a first come, first served basis. First Sunday of every month Free. SLO Public Market, South Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo. SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

VERTICAL WINE TASTING: ISLAY HILL

ESTATE SYRAH Enjoy a guided, multisensory exploration of four standout vintages of cool climate Estate Syrahs, poured by the owner! March 28 , 2-4 p.m. $45. (805) 706-8034. exploretock.com. La Lomita Ranch, 1985 La Lomita Way, San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

OCEANFRONT EASTER BRUNCH

BUFFET Gather with family and friends, unwind by the sea, and celebrate the season in true Cliffs style. Get details about the buffet and tickets at the link. April 5 , 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $55.40$130.39. my805tix.com. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach, (805) 773-5000. ∆

Arts

Out of storage

It’s not unusual for art collections to outgrow display space. In fact, most museums only have 40 to 60 percent of their permanent collection on display at any given time. Art Bridges Foundation is committed to getting stored work seen again.

“We partner with museums to provide strategic and financial support to get American art out of storage and into communities nationwide through our art sharing and community engagement programs,” Art Bridges Foundation explained on its website.

Hence, Once Upon Now: The Art Bridges Collection on display at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art (SLOMA) through June 7.

“The nine diverse works of American art in this exhibition span from 1915 to 2020, representing a remarkable slice of American art history,” SLOMA announced. “This selection weaves together ideas of identity, childhood, and environment. Through diverse mediums, styles, and cultural contexts, these works offer insights into the personal, cultural, and artistic conversations that shape our world.”

From the pop art of Robert Gober’s Untitled (1993-1994), a large-scale replica of a beeswax stick of butter resting on its wax paper wrapper, to Max Weber’s cubist Interior with Music (1915), the exhibition celebrates the incredible range of American art. Learn more at sloma.org.

La presidente

There’s a new sheriff in town, and her name is Chris “Straightshooter” McBride. She’s actually not that new. KCBX Public Radio, the Central Coast’s NPR member station, hired her in 2023 as the development director to oversee fundraising and outreach activities, including the biannual pledge drives. Now that the radio station’s former President Frank Lanzone has semi-retired, McBride was named KCBX president and general manager.

“I’m excited to step into this role. It’s inspiring to see how deeply our staff, volunteers, and the Central Coast community care for and value KCBX,” McBride said in an announcement. “The station truly is a community treasure.”

Lanzone will now serve as executive director of the annual Live Oak Music Festival.

“I believe Chris to be an outstanding choice to meet the expected and unexpected challenges ahead of us. Her expertise in planning, fundraising, collaborating, and troubleshooting will serve KCBX well,” Lanzone added. “Chris has also been a long-standing member of the community with deep roots in SLO County, just like KCBX, making her a great match for this position.”

Now that the Trump administration has ended federal funding for public broadcasting, the biannual pledge drives and the annual Live Oak fundraiser have become increasingly important to KCBX’s viability. Donate at kcbx.org. Purchase Live Oak Fest tickets at liveoakfest.org. Δ Glen Starkey

BY GLEN STARKEY

Psst …

David LaCaro’s secret spray paint side gig

When Paso Robles Public Works

Operations Manager David LaCaro isn’t making sure the city’s streets and storm drains function properly or playing drums in the popular and long-running local rock act The JD Project, he can be found with a can of spray paint in his hand creating iconic pop art portraits.

He currently has a rotating collection on display in Paso’s The Pour House, where he replaces them with new ones when they sell.

“Yeah, Biggie Smalls, we had Notorious B.I.G. on that wall,” LaCaro gestured. “There was a concert here, and a guy was looking at it, and he asked Leslie [Flynn, The Pour House owner], ‘Are those for sale?’ And she said, ‘Yeah,’ so she texted me. ‘Hey, come on down. There’s a guy that wants to buy this.’ I met the guy. I met his wife, and we kind of chatted it up. ‘I’ll take that off the wall.’ I’m like, ‘Wow. Oh, great.’”

They’re surprisingly affordable—usually around $800 depending on size—especially considering how much time LaCaro spends on each one. He’s even started doing dog portraits, which you can see on his Instagram @franticcans75, that are absolutely adorable and instantly iconic.

Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Northern California, his art education is entirely home grown.

“Yeah, there’s no formal training, honestly,” he admitted, “but, you know, I’d have to say it started all when I was probably 13, like middle school. I grew up in Davis in a group of skaters and punk rockers, and we’d go to punk rock shows and skated everywhere, and that meant going over to Sacramento, which is right over the causeway. Then I started getting into spray painting, and so, as a skater punk, you can imagine we were spray painting on trains. I was up to no good, running from cops and things. You know, young and dumb. And then I ran into a little bit of an issue.”

Sometimes mother knows best.

See the work, commission a painting or mural

David LaCaro has a collection of his pop art portraits on display in the Paso Robles hot spot The Pour House (525 Pain St.), but you also can see more of his work on his Instagram account, @franticcans75, where you can message him about having an original portrait commissioned or mural painted.

He’s also in the process of turning his original paintings into prints, so if you don’t want to spring for an original, you can get the image printed on a poster or even canvas. Contact the artist through his Instagram page for more information.

“My mom and I have a really close relationship, so she said, ‘OK, mijo. This is what we’re gonna do. We’re going down to Ace Hardware.’”

She bought two big pieces of plywood and a bunch of spray paint and set them up at home.

“She made the backyard into a spray paint playground, so I had all my buddies after school or whatever, we’d be just doing stuff on boards, doing that kind of stuff.”

It’s a tradition LaCaro has continued at his home in Templeton, where he has plywood attached to his back fence, and he’ll spray paint a mural, leave it for a while, snap a photo, paint over it and start anew. Let’s just say that the paint is thick!

He also recently entered more mainstream art channels, winning Best in Show and First Place at the Mid-State Fair for his painting of a boomboxtoting b-boy. The painting certainly stood out from the norm.

“Typically, what you’ll see over there are a lot of landscape, a lot of vineyards, stuff like that. OK, that’s cool. But this is totally different. It was kind of shocking. I was like, ‘Oh, wait a minute, this is all spray paint. They don’t even have a category for that.’”

LaCaro found his way to SLO County when he attended Cal Poly as an Ecology and Systematic Biology major. After graduating, he started a consulting business. He “bounced around” before returning to SLO as a part of the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board for nearly a decade before joining the city of Paso Robles as a stormwater manager and “working his way up.” He’s been with Paso about 11 years now.

Thanks to his very smart and supportive mom, all LaCaro’s youthful punk rock energy was channeled into productivity.

“I just got off the phone with her before I got here,” LaCaro laughed. “I just connect with her really well and often. I remember my mom, at the table, she did some oil painting, took classes and stuff, and I’d just kind of sit around and emulate stuff like that with her on canvases. I continued to do spray painting, and most of the stuff I would do was just in my backyard. I’ve been in Templeton for the last 20 years. I work in a lot of different formats. I’ve painted skateboards, skateboard decks. I do different walls if I get commissioned by, like, a skate shop. Spray paint just became my medium.”

Friends suggested he start putting his work on canvases, and so he did, and because he’s a record collector and likes to paint musicians, putting his portraits in a music venue made perfect sense.

He’s now in discussion with Flynn to create a mural inside The Pour House, which recently underwent a major remodel. It’s become a very cool live music venue, and LaCaro’s portraits really pop against the black walls.

From Amy Winehouse to Johnny Cash to Tupac—LaCaro is an equal opportunity portraitist. Remember, he’ll even paint your dog. ∆

Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.

ARTIST FORMERLY KNOWN AS AMOR Known as AMOR in the graffiti world, David LaCaro now turns his talents into creating layered portraits of icons like Prince. His work is currently on display at The Pour House in Paso Robles.

PHOTO BY GLEN STARKEY

DEBBIE LaCaro incorporated classic pop art colors in his portrait of Debbie Harry of the ’70s New Wave act Blondie.

COURTESY IMAGE BY DAVID LACARO

JEAN-MICHEL In his portrait of NYC neoexpressionist and primitivist Jean-Michel Basquiat, LaCaro added the artist’s signature three-pointed crown motif.

COURTESY IMAGE BY DAVID LACARO

The Creation is sponsored by Mark and Stephanie Fugate, Marti Lindholm, and Alison Stuart. Beyond the Notes is sponsored by the Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust and Carol Nelson-Selby.

Go long!

o-directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, 21 Jump Street, The Lego Movie) bring Drew Goddard’s (The Martian) adaptation of novelist Andy Weir’s 2021 novel to the screen. Ryan Gosling stars as science teacher Ryland Grace, who awakens alone on a spaceship hurtling through space. With no memory of how he got there, we learn in flashbacks what his mission is and its importance to humanity. (156 min.)

PROJECT HAIL MARY

What’s it rated? PG-13

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

Where’s it showing? Bay, Colony, Downtown Centre, Fair Oak, Park, Stadium 10, Sunset Drive-In

Glen Dear Project Hail Mary filmmakers, I enjoyed your movie very much, but I would have enjoyed it more had you trimmed the 30 or so minutes of fat off it. Too much of a good thing becomes less good. The Law of Diminishing Returns is real. That said, Gosling is reliably charming as Dr. Rylan Grace, a brilliant and maverick molecular biologist who was drummed out of the upper echelons of science because of his out-ofthe-box thinking on the elements needed to form life. As his retrograde amnesia begins to wane, we discover through his memories when he was recruited for this mission to save the sun that he was reduced to a middle school teacher. His underdog status and road-less-traveled thinking is likeable, but we soon discover all he wants to do now is keep his head down and not make waves, so how the heck did this semi-coward end up an astronaut? That’s what the story slowly … and I mean slowly … explains.

Anna Not only is Grace totally disoriented upon waking, he’s also totally alone. He discovers the bodies of his two crewmates and pieces together the stories of who they were in life back on Earth through their belongings. He’s in an understandable spiral when he comes upon another ship, not one built by NASA. While his first instinct is to flee from the alien vessel, his efforts are

JURY DUTY PRESENTS: COMPANY RETREAT

What’s it rated? TV-14

When? 2026

Where’s it showing? Prime

If you watched or heard about Jury Duty, you already know the premise—an everyday man and all-around nice guy is surrounded by a cast of increasingly strange people in a scenario where they are, for all intents and purposes, trapped. Nice Guy has no idea he’s surrounded by actors. This time around, designated Nice Guy Anthony has to navigate the ins and outs of a business in transition. The founder is stepping down and leaving his role to his son, a man ill-

fruitless and soon it becomes a game of communication. Messages arrive with metal figures, and he starts to build a narrative of who his alien counterpart is. When the two finally meet, he finds a five-legged, rocklike creature that he names Rocky. The two learn to communicate, and soon the two have become a bonded team set to bring both of their home planets hope for a future. Ultimately, it is a story of friendship.

Glen Unlike, say, the seriousness of Contact (1997) or Arrival (2016), Project Hail Mary takes a more tongue-in-cheek approach to alien contact—more E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) or Paul (2011). Rocky and Grace are both likeable and develop a rapport. They have different strengths, so they need each other to succeed. On their own, each would no doubt fail, but together, they’re strong. And like the characters of E.T. and Paul or even BB-8 or baby Groot, Rocky’s a cute little charmer who sees in Grace something Grace himself thought he long ago lost—his bravery

equipped to take the lead. Anthony helps plan events, takes part in staff training, and even solves the mystery of who stole all the Cool Ranch Doritos from the commissary.

There’s a fine line between having fun with and making fun of people in this type of an experiment, but like Ronald in season one of Jury Duty, Anthony is so genuinely sweet you can’t help but find him endearing. With three new episodes out each week, I’m looking forward to seeing how this story unfolds for Anthony and the rest of the “workers” at Rockin’ Grandma’s Hot Sauce. (eight approximately 30-min. episodes)

—Anna

DUPED Anthony Norman (far right), a temp worker at a hot sauce company, attends a company retreat that’s completely staged and populated by actors, in Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat, streaming on Amazon Prime.

NUREMBERG

What’s it rated? PG-13

When? 2025

and selflessness. Hail Mary is a crowd pleaser without a doubt, and my quibble about it being overlong isn’t going to hinder anyone from seeing it. Last Friday’s matinee was packed. For full effect, you definitely want to see this one in a theater.

Anna It’s definitely meant for that venue, even if it means you’re going to have to park yourself, reclining in wide comfort, for the better part of an afternoon. Gosling knows how to play charming and funny, and his Grace becomes a more complicated character the more we get to know him through flashbacks. One of my favorite parts of the film is Sandra Hüller’s portrayal of Eva Stratt, the project manager and Grace’s recruiter. She’s very serious and very German. Grace is very much alone, and so is Rocky, and then the two aren’t so alone anymore because they have each other. It’s pretty darn sweet. ∆

Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Split Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

Where’s it showing? Netflix

This story is based on the 2013 book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist by Jack El-Hai, which chronicled the relationship between U.S. Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek) and Nazi Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe) during the Nuremberg trials. The idea was that Kelley was supposed to discover what was different about the Germans’ personalities or psyches that would lead them to commit such horrible atrocities.

The film also explores U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Robert Jackson (Michael Shannon), who’s tasked with creating an

international tribunal—something that had never been done before—to hold the 22 Nazi defendants to account for their crimes against humanity. I knew the basics of the Nuremberg trials, but I certainly learned a lot more details of how they happened and the legalities around them. This was a pretty low-budget film, but the cast and acting are first-rate. In addition to Crowe, Malek, and Shannon, Richard E. Grant stars as British barrister Sir David MaxwellFyfe, who was instrumental in forcing Göring’s confession. Leo Woodall is Sgt. Howie Triest, who acts as the story’s moral center. Spoiler alert! What was different about the Nazis’ psyches? Nothing. Anyone is capable of total moral collapse. (148 min.)

THE RELUCTANT ASTRONAUT Ryan Gosling stars as Ryland Grace, a scientist on a mission to save the sun, in Project Hail Mary, screening in local theaters.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMAZON MGM STUDIOS

SLY DOG Russell Crowe (bottom left corner) stars as Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring, Hitler’s second in command, who stood trial for Nazi war crimes, in Nuremberg, streaming on Netflix.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SONY PICTURES CLASSICS

PHOTO COURTESY OF PRIME

Music

BY GLEN STARKEY

In a good place

Wolf Jett makes feel-good music for the masses

Good news for Wolf Jett fans. The band is poised to release Letting Go, their new album, on April 2, and its 10 tracks have been worth the wait. I’m going to go ahead and say “Don’t Give Up On Me Now” is my favorite. It’s a song about perseverance.

“One damn thing I know for sure, honey, this life ain’t over till it’s over, and I know that someday we’ll get to see what it all means. And until I get unlucky, baby, I’ll just keep on rolling till I see you on the other side. Don’t give up on me now. Don’t give up on me now. Been down so many roads, seen so many lives come and go by the wayside. Baby, it’s no joke. Can’t you see I’m broke, but I feel like I can give it my all just one more time. I know you’ve been waiting for me to say … don’t give up on me now.”

Such a hooky chorus, and the groove grease organ mixed with the viral Instagram guitar solo performed by Benjamin Andrews are magic. Frontman Chris Jones’ soulful, rootsy, rustic voice! Damn! Great song.

The band fuses folk, soul, and Americana into what they call “cosmic mountain music.” It’s the fruit of a lifelong musical

collaboration between Tennessee-born Jones and drummer Jon Payne’s groovy rhythm section. The pair have been playing together since they were 12 years old.

Add in Duncan Shipton on bass, female vocalist Allyson Makuch, electric guitarist Rory Cloud, and Alex Benjamin on keys/percussion, and yowza! These guys are at the top of their game.

Good Medicine and Numbskull present Wolf Jett at The Siren on Friday, March 27 (7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; $24.41 at goodmedicinepresents. com). Bella Rayne opens.

Live Music

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.

OPEN MIC NIGHT Each Wednesday, enjoy this Open Mic Night in the downstairs dining area. Grab some friends and show off your talents. Food and drink service will be available. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. Free. (805) 995-3883. schoonerscayucos.com. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos.

SEA SHANTIES AT THE DOCKSIDE The Morro Bay Shanty Project will perform historical (and hysterical) songs of the

misdemeanor reckless endangerment. Oops!

Also this week at The Siren … Moonstone Band plays a free matinee show on Saturday, March 28 (2 to 5 p.m.; 21-and-older). The Cambria-based group comprises seasoned musicians who play classic rock covers and some originals.

“We stay true to the original songs that made them popular, and we create a sound that resonates with people at our shows because of the emotional connections they have with the songs,” the band announced.

The Morgan Wallen Experience, a tribute to Morgan Wallen, plays on Saturday, March 28 (8 p.m.; 21-and-older; $23.77 at tixr.com). Wallen has a bit of a bad-boy rep for eschewing COVID protocols in 2020, using a racial slur in 2021, and then that little incident when he tossed a chair off a Nashville rooftop bar and plead guilty to two counts of

sea. Enjoy lunch and sing along. Tips benefit the Morro Bay Maritime Museum. March 27 11 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Dockside Restaurant, 1245 Embarcadero bay front, Morro Bay, (805) 772-8100.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

BURLEY THISTLES Burley Thistles is an alternative rock band known for their guitar-driven sound and memorable songs. March 28 , 7-10 p.m. Decades Hifi Lounge, 5840 Traffic Way, Atascadero, (805) 460-6415, decadeslounge.com.

CALI COAST DUO LIVE AT DRACAENA

WINES Cali Coast Duo will bring a warm, coastal charm to the tasting room as part of the 4th Thursday Live Music Series. March 26 5-7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 270-3327. dracaenawines.com. Dracaena Wines, 1244 Pine Street, suite 101 B, Paso Robles.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett,

writer and performer of guitar-woven music in distinctive stylistic shapes. It is music that is easy to listen to but also surprises. April 3 5-7 p.m. Sun Outdoors Paso Robles, 3800 Golden Hill Road, Paso Robles, (805) 242-4700.

FLAVOR PACKET Flavor Packet is a jazz combo that stirs up an imaginative sound with their contemporary and worldbeat-influenced jazz music. April 4 1-4 p.m. Four Lanterns Winery, 2485 West Highway 46, Paso Robles, (805) 226-5955, fourlanternswinery.com.

FRIDAY NIGHT DJ Weekly DJ series, with a different DJ every Friday. Presented by friends at Traffic Record store in Atascadero. Come listen, dance, drink, and unwind every Friday. All ages event; no cover charge. Fridays, 7-10 p.m. (805) 460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

The Morgan Wallen Experience brings the singer’s energy and music to the stage, but you’re probably safe from a thrown chair.

Scott Cooper & the Rosebud Band returns for a free afternoon show on Sunday, March 29 (3 to 6 p.m.; 21-and-older).

The band is Cooper’s side project from his Grateful Dead tribute act China Cats. Rosebud mixes originals and covers from the Dead, Dylan, Beatles, and more.

Austin-based indie and surf rock band Tigers Eye plays on Tuesday, March 31 (7 p.m.; 21-andolder; free). Formed in 2023 by friends Jeremy Baker, Nicholas Hamner, and Jayden Martinez, this up-andcoming act has won over Austin and now is ready to win over the world. They’re touring in support of their 2025 EP, Josephine, and they just dropped a new EP, Daydreams, in mid March. Salty Strings opens.

Whiskerman with Gene Evaro Jr., “a rockand-roll overture to our great unraveling,” plays on Thursday, April 2 (7 p.m.; 21-andolder; $13.17 at tixr.com). According to their bio, “Over the last seven years, the Oakland band has developed an underground reputation for tackling the sublime with their ambitious songwriting, thunderous stage show, and acute lyricism. They have since emerged as an engine of the Bay Area’s revitalized psychedelic and festival scenes.”

JAZZ AT SENSORIO WITH PAT KELLEY, SUNNY WRIGHT, DAVID KEIF, AND DARYL VANDRUFF The Pat Kelley Trio will be joined by jazz vocalist Sunny Wright. Enjoy firepit tables, lawn games, lights, and music. March 27, 6-9 p.m. $65. (805) 226-4287. sensoriopaso.com/. Sensorio, 4380 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles.

KARAOKE NIGHT Food and drink available for purchase. Last Saturday of every month, 8 p.m. Free admission. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.

SINGING HANDS CHILDREN’S CHOIR

A unique performing arts group that performs across the state for deaf festivals, service organizations, churches, fairs, and other outlets. New members always welcome. Registration open weekly. Mondays, 5-6:30 p.m. $45 tuition per month. singinghandschildrenschoir.

com/. Singing Hands Children’s Choir and Performing Arts, 1413 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BURLEY THISTLES Burley Thistles is an alternative rock band known for their authentic guitar-driven sound lyrics and memorable songs. April 4 9:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Frog and Peach Pub, 728 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 595-4764, frogandpeachpub.com.

CISCO ADLER LIVE AT LIBERTINE

Raised on the beaches of Malibu and Maui, Cisco Adler is a multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated producer, songwriter & artist with billion of streams to his credit. Hear Adler live at Libertine! April 3 7 p.m. $28.62. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly event with barbecue offerings and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, (805) 925-3500.

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. YOSEMITE JAZZ BAND JAZZ DANCE CONCERT PRESENTED BY BASIN STREET REGULARS The Yosemite Jazz Band will be playing “Hot Swingin’ Jazz” at the Basin Street Regulars’ Sunday afternoon concert. March 29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $10-$15. my805tix.com. Pismo Beach Veteran’s Memorial Building, 780 Bello Street, San Luis Obispo. LIVE MUSIC

LETTING GO Good Medicine and Numbskull present cosmic mountain music act Wolf Jett at The Siren on March 27.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WOLF JETT

SURF’S UP The Siren presents Austin, Texas, indie and surf rock act Tigers Eye on March 31

PHOTO

FEEL THE SOUL SLO Brew Live presents The Motet at Rod & Hammer Rock on March 29

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MOTET

STARKEY continued page 24

The band includes frontman Graham Patzner (vocals, guitar, violin, and piano), Will Lawrence (bass), and Charles Lloyd (guitar and sitar), Dan Schwartz (drums), and Jeremy Lyon (guitar). Special guest Gene Evaro sings and plays lead and conjures comparisons to everyone from Stephen Stills to Prince.

What’s in a name?

Apologies to William Shakespeare and his idea that a rose by any other name would smell as sweet, and sure, names are essentially arbitrary, blah blah blah, but for clarity’s sake, I sure wish SLO Brew or Rod & Hammer or The Rock would pick a freaking name and stick with it.

Whatever you want to call it, the venue out by the airport has some cool shows this week starting with Vince Cimo’s Hot Fire on Friday, March 27 (doors at 7

p.m.; all ages; $17.91 at my805tix.com). The high-energy funk ensemble is led by multiinstrumentalist Vince Cimo, whose love of classic funk, soul, and R&B combines with his sense of old-school rhythm and interest in modern electronic infusions. Two other local R&B acts, The Loving Mosh and Sweet Spots, open.

Originally scheduled for the Fremont Theater, Nick Lowe and The Cactus Blossoms has been moved to Rod & Hammer Rock on Saturday, March 28 (doors at 7 p.m.; all ages; $40.14 at prekindle. com). Nick Lowe’s newest, Indoor Safari, finds the British singer-songwriter and pop royal in excellent form.

Denver-based funk, soul, and jazz-

inflected group The Motet plays on Sunday, March 29 (doors at 7 p.m.; all ages; $34.42 at ticketweb.com). They’ve been together for 28 years, led by drummer and bandleader Dave Watts. They’ve been through a few members over the years, but they added their new singer, Sarah Clarke, in 2023, when they released their latest album, All Day—their ninth.

“We’re not in this for money or fame,” Watts said in press materials. “We just want to be able to write songs and play shows. The fact we can travel as far as we do, go through everything as a team, and play music we wrote together is humbling. To see people coming out to shows, smiling, singing, dancing, and sustaining our careers is nothing short of a miracle.”

Michael Wilbur opens.

Legacy

Cal Poly Arts presents The Ravi Shankar Ensemble at the Performing Arts Center in SLO on Thursday, April 2 (7:30 p.m.; $39 to $66 at calpolyarts. org). The ensemble is a multi-generational collective that features Shubhendra Rao (sitar), Anubrata Chatterjee (tabla), B. C. Manjunath (mridangam), Ravichandra Kulur (flute), Padma Shankar (violin, vocals) and Aayush Mohan (sarod).

Ravi Shankar, born Robindro Shaunkor Chowdhury (1920-2012), was a sitar virtuoso and father to American singer Norah Jones and sitar player Anoushka Shankar. Ravi’s wife, Sukanya Shankar, and their daughter, Anoushka, “have curated a thoughtful collection of Ravi Shankar’s repertoire for the six-piece ensemble,” according to organizers. “The program will focus on the maestro’s notable devotion to both tradition and creativity while building understanding and love of Indian classical music with audiences worldwide.”

Hot jazz comin’ atcha!

The Basin Street Regulars Hot Jazz Club presents the Yosemite Jazz Band on Sunday, March 29, at the Pismo Beach Veterans Memorial Building (12:30 to 4 p.m.; all ages; $15 general, $10 members, or $5 for musicians wanting to join the 11 a.m. jam session at my805tix.com). The Cabrillo High School Jazz Band opens.

The Basin Street Regulars continues to celebrate its 50th anniversary by hosting The Yosemite Jazz Band, which is celebrating its own 32-year legacy. Founded in October 1993 by trumpet and flugelhorn player Berl Howell, the band has become a cornerstone of the California jazz circuit.

Protest songs

Local music duo Bay Love is lending their talents and politics to the upcoming No Kings protest on Saturday, March 28, near the

government center on Monterey Street in SLO.

“We’ll be performing at the rally downtown between 10 a.m. and noon and will also be facilitating group sing-alongs with Singing Resistance Central Coast from the main stage, with my fellow songleaders singing with folks along the march,” singer-songwriter Linda Martin explained. “We’re excited to bring this Minnesotaborn movement here to SLO County!

“Additionally, we’ll be hosting a No Kings After Party at Morro Bay’s The Savory Palette that evening between 6:30 and 9 p.m. Oops, and I forgot to mention that additional Singing Resistance Central Coast song leaders will be singing and marching

Sound out!

with attendees at the Atascadero No Kings event at The Sunken Gardens on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to noon.”

Make your voices heard.

Still no definitive word …

Good Vibez has New Jersey-based indie rockers The Happy Fits booked at the Fremont Theater on Thursday, April 2 (doors at 6, show at 7 p.m.; all ages; $37.05 at ticketweb.com). The show’s currently listed on the venue’s website. Tickets are being sold. No idea if the theater will be open yet, so proceed with caution. Indie rocker BEL opens the show … if there is one. ∆

Send music and club information to gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC AT EL VINERO

Celebrate the first Friday in April with live music from Savannah Creech! Enjoy wine tasting, by the glass or bottle. April 3 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 354-0260. elvinero.com. El Viñero, 130 N. Broadway Suite A, Orcutt.

HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR

Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 6235129, stellerscellar.com.

MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more.

Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic. com/Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. (805) 478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.

SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

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) 8190723, coldcoastbrewing.com.

YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids

and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

THE BAND PERRY LIVE Hear Tennessee-based group The Band Perry perform live at Chumash Casino Resort. Get tickets and additional details at the link. March 27, 8 p.m. $40-$70. chumashcasino.com. Chumash Casino Resort, 3400 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez, (800) 248-6274.

EVERCLEAR Get ready to sing along to “Santa Monica,” “Father of Mine,” and “Wonderful” when 90s alternative rock legends Everclear take the stage at Solvang. March 27 7-9 p.m. $125. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest.org. 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. WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.

LIVE MUSIC from page 23

GOOD TROUBLE Local folk duo Bay Love plays the No Kings rally in front of the SLO County Government Center on March 28

PHOTO COURTESY OF BAY LOVE

SIZZLE The Basin Street Regulars Hot Jazz Club presents the Yosemite Jazz Band on March 29 at the Pismo Beach Veterans Memorial Building.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE YOSEMITE JAZZ BAND

ALL IN THE FAMILY Cal Poly Arts presents The Ravi Shankar Ensemble, including violinist Padma Shankar, at the Performing Arts Center in SLO on April 2

PHOTO COURTESY OF SACKS & CO

Flavor

BY MADISON WHITE

Sweet surprises

Central Coast bakers band together to deliver homemade goodies to underserved youth

Lee Coogan feels blessed that her birthday was always celebrated when she was a kid. So was her son’s, and so are her grandkids’. But some people aren’t as fortunate to get a slice of cake in honor of the year ahead.

Starting 10 years ago, a national nonprofit, For Goodness Cakes, set out to change that. It matches home bakers with local organizations from 27 chapters around the country to provide celebratory sweets to at-risk youth. Coogan is the Central Coast chapter’s agency steward, connecting more than 200 bakers with children in need from Thousand Oaks to Paso Robles.

Recipients may be experiencing homelessness, living in foster care homes, going through cancer treatment, or struggling with other kinds of instability.

Share tasty tips!

“To know that you can give back that way to people that haven’t been celebrated is what I enjoy the most,” Coogan said. “Because that could’ve been me. That could’ve been my son that never had a cake or a celebration.”

It takes a village

Local organizations and bakers interested in registering with For Goodness Cakes can visit forgoodnesscakes.org/centralcoast. The Central Coast branch can be found on Instagram @forgoodnesscakescentralcoast. Email centralcoastca@ forgoodnesscakes.org with questions.

20 and are still getting helped by some of these agencies,” Coogan said. “We’ve sent out birthday cakes to 25-year-olds that are in some of these organizations and learning how to evolve and move into society.”

Kids choose between cakes, cupcakes, and other baked goods as well as their preferences on flavor, color, and theme.

Send tidbits on everything food and drink to bites@newtimesslo.com.

The Ventura-based volunteer recruits nonprofits, municipal departments, and other groups to hop on board with For Goodness Cakes, ensuring they’re ordering regularly for the kids who walk through their doors. In the past two months her bakers have made around 50 desserts.

Coogan added three agencies in the past six months, bringing the Central Coast up to 22 partners total. But there’s a lot more potential, Coogan said.

She hopes to fill a gap between Nipomo and Santa Barbara with more eager bakers and organizations that want to help their community.

For Goodness Cakes is especially active in Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay, and Arroyo Grande, she mentioned.

The whole process is powered by volunteers who donate their ingredients and time in the kitchen as a way of giving back. Bakers (amateurs or pros) register online and must pass a short food safety training course. Then they wait for a request to pop up on their portal and decide to accept it or not.

Most commonly, the agency requests treats for a birthday or graduation ceremony. There’s no age limit, and some recipients can be in their 20s.

“We have youth that age out of the foster system, and so we found that they could be 19 or

Popular flavors are chocolate, confetti, and tres leches, often topped with 3D decorations, swirling piping, and colorful lettering. The last dessert Coogan delivered was for a birthday girl who wanted a chocolate cake with pink frosting. Coogan added different shaped sprinkles on top for extra pizzazz.

“When you give them the ability to request what they would like, that even makes it more special,” she said.

Volunteers deliver their dessert to the agency within a specific time frame. Though they aren’t allowed to stick around to see the kids take a bite, the bakers usually have as much fun as those who eat their creations. Sometimes volunteers receive letters or photos from the agency describing the meaningful moments.

“I delivered a cake about three weeks ago here locally, and the woman wrote me back, … and said the child was so excited. They’d never had a birthday cake.”

While some volunteers bake professionally,

the nonprofit a few years ago, wanting to get better at the craft and give back to the community.

“What better way? And I don’t have to eat it then because I don’t need it,” she said with a laugh. The retired software professional has been baking ever since she can remember. Coogan said her mother didn’t spend much time in the kitchen, so she bought a Betty Crocker cookbook for her kids to help out. With their mom’s supervision, Coogan and her brother were cooking and baking since they were old enough to read recipes.

Since joining For Goodness Cakes, the lifelong baker has perfected her cupcake game, too. The creative outlet is another part of the job that she looks forward to.

For Goodness Cakes doesn’t turn anyone away based on their experience level.

“I have a new lady that signed up, and her first cake was in a 9-by-13 sheet pan. She just baked it, she frosted it, she put sprinkles, and said, ‘Happy Birthday,’” Coogan remembered. “The kids loved it because it’s personal. It’s special. Just for them.”

Even if bakers use a box mix, it’s better than no cake at all. Most of the children they serve eat meals during the day, but dessert is often left out of the equation.

In addition to coordinating the program on the Central Coast, Coogan is also a baker for any orders that don’t get picked up by others. It’s how she started volunteering with

Spiderman’s face topped the very first cake she made for the nonprofit. Coogan bought special red and blue gel food coloring and strung webs across the frosting. The volunteer often peruses Pinterest for inspiration and searches Amazon for affordable decorations, exploring all the possibilities to make the children beam with excitement.

“The volunteers get as much joy out of it as the kids do,” Coogan said. ∆

Reach Sun Staff Writer Madison White, from New Times’ sister paper, at mwhite@ santamariasun.com.

THE HAPPIEST BIRTHDAY Lee Coogan started as a volunteer baker with For Goodness Cakes almost three years ago. Halfway into her time with the nonprofit, she became the Central Coast chapter’s agency steward, making sure organizations that need cakes are matched with bakers.

COURTESY PHOTOS BY LEE COOGAN

QUADRUPLE THE CHOCOLATE The most popular request submitted to the Central Coast branch of For Goodness Cakes is chocolate cake. Just in the past two months, the chapter has delivered around 50 desserts to local at-risk children.

NO FIGHTING FOR A SLICE One of volunteer baker Lee Coogan’s most memorable creations was a boxing-themed cake for a boy on his 13th birthday.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Founder of For Goodness Cakes Jaime Lehman started the national nonprofit in March 2016 by delivering four cakes. Now, a decade later, volunteers have delivered more than 50,000 desserts to at-risk children around the country.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JAIME LEHMAN

AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE: All right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described as: More fully described in said Deed of Trust. Street Address or other common designation of real property: 717 MARQUITA AVENUE, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446

A.P.N.: 040-143-044

The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $ 1,041,611.71.

Note: Because the Beneficiary reserves the right to bid less than the total debt owed, it is possible that at the time of the sale the opening bid may be less than the total debt. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse.

The beneficiary of the Deed of Trust has executed and delivered to the undersigned a written request to commence foreclosure, and the undersigned caused a Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located.

NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself.

Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on this property.

Please be advised that the trustee may require entity or trust bidders at this

trustee’s sale to provide information, documentation and/or certification of the vesting instructions and the data required to be reported pursuant to FinCEN regulations effective for transfers of residential real property to covered transferees on or after March 1, 2026. The required information must be provided to the trustee before a trustee’s deed upon sale will be issued for covered transfers. Additional information regarding these regulations and the required transferee information and certifications can be found at https://www.fedeal register.gov/documents/2024/08/29/2024-19198/ anti-money-laundering-regulations-forresidential-real-estate-transfers and https://www.fincen.gov/rre-faqs#d_5

NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (866)-960-8299 or visit this Internet Web site https://www.altisource.com/ loginpage.aspx using the file number assigned to this case 2020-01308-CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale.

NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction, if conducted after January 1, 2021, pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (866)-960-8299, or visit this internet website https://www. altisource.com/loginpage.aspx, using the file number assigned to this case 2020-01308-CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid, by remitting the funds and affidavit described in Section 2924m(c) of the Civil Code, so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase.

Date: March 5, 2026

Western Progressive, LLC, as Trustee for beneficiary C/o 1500 Palma Drive, Suite 238 Ventura, CA 93003

Sale Information Line: (866) 960-8299 https://www.altisource.com/loginpage.aspx

Trustee Sale Assistant

**This address must be used for the required delivery by certified or overnight mail of postponement requests as specified pursuant to Civil Code section 2924f(e).

March 12, 19, & 26, 2026 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 26CVP-0078

To all interested persons: Petitioner: Salvador Pantaleon Escalera filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Salvador Pantaleon Escalera (First, Middle, Last) to PROPOSED NAME: Salvador Pantaleon Escalera (First, Last, Last) THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: April 22, 2026, Time: 9:30 am, Dept. P2, in person or via zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 901 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446. A copy of this Order to Show Cause must be published at least once each week for four successive weeks before the date set for hearing on the petition in a newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times Date: March 4, 2026 /s/: Michael C. Kelley, Judge of the Superior Court March 12, 19, 26, & April 2, 2026.

A.P.N.: 092-137-008

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

CASE NUMBER: 26CVP-0083

To all interested persons: Petitioner: Jonathan Reyna Aroni filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Jonathan Reyna Aroni to PROPOSED NAME: Jonathan Reyna THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: April 29, 2026, Time: 9:30 am, Dept. P2, in person or via zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 901 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446. A copy of this Order to Show Cause must be published at least once each week for four successive weeks before the date set for hearing on the petition in a newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times Date: March 9, 2026

/s/: Michael C. Kelley, Judge of the Superior Court March 19, 26, April 2, & 9, 2026.

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME NEW FILE NO. 2026-0471 OLD FILE NO. 2025-1817

805 Central Coast Flowers, 803 Guadalupe Rd., Arroyo Grande, CA 93420. San Luis Obispo County. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 09/02/2025. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Thijs Vink (803 Guadalupe Rd., Arroyo Grande, CA 93420). This business was conducted by An Individual /s/ Thijs Vink. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 03/03/2026. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By A. Schultz, Deputy Clerk. March 19, 26, April 2, & 9, 2026

T.S. No.: 2016-01804-CA

A.P.N.:092-137-008

Property Address: 759 Viola Court, Nipomo, CA 93444

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE PURSUANT TO CIVIL CODE § 2923.3(a) and (d), THE SUMMARY OF INFORMATION REFERRED TO BELOW IS NOT ATTACHED TO THE RECORDED COPY OF THIS DOCUMENT BUT ONLY TO THE COPIES PROVIDED TO THE TRUSTOR.

NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED

NOTA: SE ADJUNTA UN RESUMEN DE LA INFORMACIÓN DE ESTE DOCUMENTO

TALA: MAYROONG BUOD NG IMPORMASYON SA DOKUMENTONG ITO NA NAKALAKIP

L?U ?: KÈM THEO ?ÂY LÀ B?N TRÌNH

BÀY TÓM L??C V? THÔNG TIN TRONG TÀI LI?U NÀY IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY

OWNER:

YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 04/04/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER.

Trustor: Gerald L. Davis And Linda J. Davis, Husband And Wife As Joint Tenants

Duly Appointed Trustee: Western Progressive, LLC

Deed of Trust Recorded 04/18/2007 as Instrument No. 2007026248 in book —-, page—- and of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of San Luis Obispo County, California, Date of Sale: 05/05/2026 at 11:00 AM Place of Sale: IN THE BREEZEWAY ADJACENT TO THE COUNTY GENERAL SERVICES BLDG. LOCATED AT 1087 SANTA ROSA STREET, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93408

Estimated amount of unpaid balance, reasonably estimated costs and other charges: $ 491,820.08

THE TRUSTEE WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON A STATE OR NATIONAL BANK, A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, OR A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, A SAVINGS ASSOCIATION OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION 5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE: All right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described as: More fully described in said Deed of Trust. Street Address or other common designation of real property: 759 Viola Court, Nipomo, CA 93444

The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $ 491,820.08.

Note: Because the Beneficiary reserves the right to bid less than the total debt owed, it is possible that at the time of the sale the opening bid may be less than the total debt. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse.

The beneficiary of the Deed of Trust has executed and delivered to the undersigned a written request to commence foreclosure, and the undersigned caused a Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located.

NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on this property.

NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (866)-960-8299 or visit this Internet Web site https://www.altisource.com/ loginpage.aspx using the file number assigned to this case 2016-01804-CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale.

NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction, if conducted after January 1, 2021, pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (866)-960-8299, or visit this internet website https://www. altisource.com/loginpage.aspx, using the file number assigned to this case 2016-01804-CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid, by remitting the funds and affidavit described in Section 2924m(c) of the Civil Code, so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase.

Date: March 2, 2026

Western Progressive, LLC, as Trustee for beneficiary C/o 1500 Palma Drive, Suite 238 Ventura, CA 93003 Sale Information Line: (866) 960-8299 https://www.altisource.com/loginpage.aspx Trustee Sale Assistant

**This address must be used for the required delivery by certified or overnight mail of postponement requests as specified pursuant to Civil Code section 2924f(e). March 12, 19, & 26, 2026

2014 JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED SPORT 4WD

cc, tw, am/ fm/cd, hardtop, prem whls, white, gray cloth. #288395 $11,988

2015 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LAREDO 4WD

3.6 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, alloys, white, blk cloth, 78k. #763149

$13,988

2019 FORD FLEX LTD AWD

3.5 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, cc, am/fm/cd, Sony, 2pseats, prem whls, new tires, blue, gray lthr, 3rd row. #A35482 $13,988

3.6 V6,

SLO County Construction LLC, Thomas Cunningham, Managing Member. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 03-18-2026. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, A. Schultz, Deputy. Exp. 03-18-2031. March 26, April 2, 9, & 16, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

FILE NO. 2026-0169 (01/23/2026)

New Filing

The following person is doing business as HEMP WHOLESALE SUPPLY, 154 N 16th Street, Grover Beach, CA 93433. San Luis Obispo County. Canyak Root Distribution LLC (154 N 16th Street, Grover Beach, CA 93433). This business is conducted by A CA Limited Liability Company /s/ Canyak Root Distribution LLC, Ernest R Martin, President. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 01-23-2026. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, L. Maceri, Deputy. Exp. 01-23-2031. March 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

NOTICE OF CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Paso Robles City Council will hold a Public Hearing to consider the following project:

Project Description:

Amendment to Chapter 21.52 of the Paso Robles Municipal Code to update standards related to “Temporary Signs”, “Prohibited Signs”, “Nonconforming Signs”, and other minor text modifications (RZN25-07, P25-0117).

Applicant: City of Paso Robles

Location: Citywide

CEQA Determination:

The proposed ordinance is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it does not qualify as a “project” under CEQA. State CEQA Guidelines §15060(c) provides that “[a] n activity is not subject to CEQA if … the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378.” Even if the proposed ordinance is considered a “project” subject to CEQA, it is categorically exempt pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15320 (Class 20).

Hearing Date:

The City Council will hold a Public Hearing on April 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Norris Room, Centennial Park, 600 Nickerson Drive, Paso Robles, CA 93446.

The Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, to consider the project and on a 4-0 vote recommended the City Council adopt the ordinance to amend the Zoning Code.

The public has the option to attend the meeting in person or to participate remotely. To participate remotely, residents can livestream the meeting at www.prcity. com/youtube, and call (805)865-7276 to provide live public comment via telephone. The phone line will open just prior to the start of the meeting.

Written public comments can be submitted via email to planning@prcity.com or US Mail (submit early) to the City Clerk, 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446 provided that the comments are received prior to the time of the public hearing. Comments received prior to 12:00 noon on the day of the meeting will be posted as an addendum to the agenda. If submitting written comments, please note the agenda item by number or name. Comments on the proposed application must be received prior to the time of the hearing to be considered by the City Council.

Challenge to the application in court will be limited to issues raised at the public hearings or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.

Copies of the project staff report will be available for review on the City’s website (www.prcity.com/meetings) on the Friday preceding the hearing. If you have any questions, please contact the Community Development Department at (805) 2373970.

NOTICE AND SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 1167

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT AT ITS REGULAR MEETING ON TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026, AT 6:00 PM, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL PASO DE ROBLES WILL BE CONSIDERING ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1167 APPROVING ALLEGRETTO RESORT EXPANSION, REZONE 25-02, and BORKEY Specific plan amendment 26-01 to amend THE zoning map OF THE CITY OF EL PASO DE ROBLES for 2700 Buena vista drive (P25-006)

Specific Plan Amendment Findings

a. The specific plan amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the general plan including Land Use Goal 1 supported by Land Use Policy 1A; Land Use Policy 2B, Action Item 2; Land Use Policy 2B, Action Item 4; Land Use Policy 2D; Land Use Policy 2H supported by Action Item 1; Land Use Policy 2I; Circulation Policy 1B supported by Action Items 1.e and 4; and Conservation Policy 2B supported by Action Item 4.

b. The specific plan amendment would not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare of the community because it is a minor expansion of the POS-R/L zoning district located immediately south of the subject property.

c. The specific plan amendment includes provisions that ensure that adequate public facilities will be available to serve the range of development described in the plan because the project would be subject to development impact fees to ensure the applicant pays a fair share toward public facilities.

d. The specific plan amendment results in the development of desirable character and use types that will be compatible with the surrounding area, provides effective buffering from adjacent uses, and includes policies for the protection of prominent ridgelines, oak trees, and other natural resources because it is a minor extension of the adjacent POS-R/L zoning district and the property is not on a prominent ridgeline.

Rezone Amendment Findings

a. The rezone amendment is internally consistent with the provisions of the zoning code including Parks and Open Space zoning with Resort/Lodging Overlay:

i. The Parks and Open Space (POS) zoning with Resort/lodging (R/L) overlay zoning district is intended to provide a means through which the City Council (and, through the development review process, the Planning Commission) can consider and selectively provide appropriate locations for resort hotels, motels, bed and breakfast inns, and similar forms of visitorserving lodging (along with related accessory/ancillary land uses). The Allegretto Resort expansion project will provide visitor serving lodging on a site adjacent to the existing resort.

ii. The City’s adopted economic development strategy establishes the goal of developing the city into an “end destination” tourist attraction. Providing a Parks and Open Space (POS) zoning with Resort/Lodging (R/L) overlay zoning district can assist in achieving this goal by encouraging consideration of appropriate locations for resorts, lodging, and related/ancillary land uses (without providing the broader range of permitted and conditionally permitted land uses and the accompanying neighborhood and environmental impacts that are associated with a Parks and Open Space (POS) zoning with Resort/lodging (R/L) general plan or zoning designation). The R/L overlay zoning district can be established on any property, subject to approval of a zone change application. The Allegretto Resort expansion project will provide an end destination tourist attraction on a site adjacent to the existing resort.

iii. Considerations upon which to base approval or denial of the Parks and Open Space (POS) zoning with Resort /Lodging (R/L) overlay zoning district application shall include, but not be limited to, adequacy of streets and highways to handle the anticipated traffic and compatibility with adjacent and nearby land uses. The City Council may determine not to consider a Parks and Open Space (POS) zoning with Resort/Lodging (R/L) overlay zoning district application without the accompanying site plan and elevation designed to demonstrate how the design of the project could be considered compatible with the surrounding neighborhood. The Allegretto Resort expansion includes a development plan that provides site planning and architectural design that complements the existing Allegretto Resort.

b. The amendment would not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare of the city because it is a resort lodging overlay in an existing resort lodging overlay area. The general plan amendment is a reasonable expansion of the Parks and Open Space with Resort Lodging Overlay designation. The affected site is physically suitable in terms of design, location, operating characteristics, shape, size, topography; is suitable in terms of the provision of public and emergency vehicle access and public services and utilities; and is served by highways and streets adequate in width and improvement to carry the kind and quantity of traffic the proposed use would likely generate to ensure that the proposed use(s) and/or development will not endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the property or improvements in the vicinity in which the property is located.

Adoption of the ordinance will approve the following:

• The zoning district of the property located at the southeast corner of Dallons Drive and Buena Vista Drive (APN 008-121021) shall be changed to Parks and Open Space, Resort Lodging Overlay (POS-R/L), as depicted in Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

• The property located at the southeast corner of Dallons Drive and Buena Vista Drive (APN 008-121-021) shall be rezoned to the Parks and Open Space, Resort Lodging Overlay (POS-R/L) zoning district, as depicted in Exhibit B attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

The above summary is a brief description of the subject matter contained in the text of the Ordinance, which has been prepared pursuant to Government Code Section 36933. This summary does not include or describe every provision of the Ordinance and should not be relied upon as a substitute for the full text of the Ordinance. Copies of the full text of the Ordinance are posted in the City Clerk’s office at 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, California or on the City’s website at www.prcity.com.

Date: March 26, 2026 Melissa Martin City Clerk

San Luis Obispo Local Agency Formation Commission

1042 Pacific Street, Suite A, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Telephone: (805)781-5795

Notice of Public Hearing –April 16, 2026, at 9:00 AM Board of Supervisors Chambers County Government Center 1055 Monterey Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93408

Hearing Item: Intent to Adopt a Municipal Service Review and Sphere of Influence Study for the California Valley Community Services District | LAFCO File No. 1-S-25

Hearing Notice: Notice is hereby given that the San Luis Obispo Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) will consider adopting the Municipal Service Review (MSR) and Sphere of Influence (SOI) Study for the California Valley Community Services District. The MSR evaluates the District’s capability to service existing and future residents and is the basis for SOI decisions. A SOI is defined by Government Code Section 56425 as a plan for the probable physical boundary and service area of a local agency or municipality. The existing SOI is coterminous with the service area boundary and is proposed to be reaffirmed. It has been determined that the MSR and SOI Study is exempt from CEQA pursuant to CEQA Categorical Exemption Section 15306 and CEQA General Rule Exemption Section 15061(b)(3). MSR and SOI factors listed in Government Code Sections 56430(a) and 56425(e) have been analyzed, and determinations have been provided within the Public Review Draft. The Public Review Draft is currently available on the LAFCO website https://slo.lafco.ca.gov/.

Hearing Item: Nipomo Community Services District | Annexation No. 32 (Robins) | LAFCO File No. 4-R-24

Hearing Notice: LAFCO will consider the proposed Annexation to the Nipomo Community Services District (NCSD) on April 16, 2026. The proposed annexation is 10.379 acres located on Lyn Road in Nipomo, Assessor Parcel Number 091-063-039. The annexation has been proposed due to water quality issues affecting the property’s existing groundwater well. The parcel is already developed with two residences, and annexation would allow the property to receive services from NCSD including water and solid waste service. NCSD issued a Plan for Service for the proposal, which demonstrates that the District has sufficient available water to serve the property without any negative impact on existing NCSD customers. LAFCO is the Lead Agency for the purpose of complying with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and will consider a Categorical Exemption pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines 15319 Class 19 (a).

Hearing Item: Proposed and Final Budget for the San Luis Obispo Local Agency Formation Commission for Fiscal Year 2026-2027

Hearing Notice: Notice is hereby given that the San Luis Obispo Local Agency Formation Commission will hold two public hearings on April 16, 2026, and May 21, 2026, to consider the Proposed and Final Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget and Work Plan, as required by Government Code Section 56831. The first public hearing held on April 16, 2026, will consider tentative approval of the proposed budget and work plan, and the second public hearing held on May 21, 2026, will consider the adoption of the final budget and work plan by resolution.

The Staff Reports will be available on the LAFCO website by Thursday, April 9, 2026. You may submit comments via email to mmorris@slo. lafco.ca.gov, mail written comments to 1042 Pacific St, Ste. A, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, or provide public comment in person during the public hearing.

If you have questions, please contact: LAFCO 805-781-5795 or mmorris@slo.lafco.ca.gov

March 26, 2026

NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Draft Ordinance has been introduced before the City Council of the City of Atascadero. The primary provisions of the Ordinance are as follows:

This Draft Ordinance approves a zoning text amendment to allow carwash uses in the commercial park planned development overlay zone (pd-9)

Home Depot Master Plan of Development Amendment (USE25-0069)

On March 24, 2026, the City Council introduced this Ordinance for adoption by the following roll call vote:

AYES: Council Members, Funk, Newsom, Peek, Mayor Pro Tem Dariz and Mayor Bourbeau. NOES: None. ABSENT: None

The City Council will consider this Ordinance for adoption on April 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter, at City Hall, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, at which time any persons wishing to support or oppose the adoption of said Ordinance may appear and be heard.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN under provisions of Government Code Section 36933 the required publication in the New Times will be summary only. Copies of the full text of this Draft Ordinance (including all Exhibits) are available for review on the City’s website at www.atascadero.org or by appointment in the City Clerk’s Office, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, California.

DATED: March 24, 2026

S/ Alyssa Slater, Deputy City Clerk PUBLISH: March 26, 2026

CITY OF MORRO BAY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Morro Bay Planning Commission will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Veteran’s Memorial Building, located at 209 Surf Street in the City of Morro Bay, to consider the following matter. Staff reports, plans, and other information related to this case is available for public review at the Community Development Department, 955 Shasta Avenue, Morro Bay, CA and also on the city’s website at Meeting Agendas and Minutes | City of Morro Bay - Official Website three (3) business days prior to the hearing.

Ways to participate, watch, and submit public comment for this meeting are provided on the agenda. Written comments are also accepted by the Planning Commission via email at planningcommission@ morrobayca.gov or by mail prior to the meeting to the Community Development Department, c/o City Hall at 595 Harbor Street, Morro Bay, California, 93442. Case No: CDP25-021 / CUP25-01 / MOD26-001

Site Location: 460 Bonita Street, Morro Bay, California.

Proposal: Request for Planning Commission approval for the demolition of the existing 1,145 square foot, singlestory living quarters for Fire Department personnel located at 460 Bonita Street, and the construction of a new, two-story living quarters totaling 2,431 square feet in its place. The project includes the re-painting of the existing apparatus bay but leaves it otherwise unaltered. The property is in the RS-A zone and is located outside of the Coastal Appeals Jurisdiction.

CEQA: The proposed project is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15303, Class 3 for New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures.

Staff Recommendation: Approval

Staff Contact: Erik Valentine, Associate Planner, (805) 772-6211, evalentine@morrobayca.gov

Airlin Singewald

Community Development Director NOTICE THURSDAY MARCH 26, 2026 -- ONE TIME ONLY

SAN LUIS COASTAL UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the San Luis Coastal Unified School District acting by and through its Board of Education will receive bids up to, but not later than 10:00:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 14, 2026 for Bid #336 C.L. Smith Elementary School Phase 2 Modernization Project. A mandatory pre-bid informational meeting will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026 at 8:00:00 a.m. The meeting will begin in front of the office at the C.L. Smith Elementary School, 1375 Balboa Street, San Luis Obispo, California. Failure to attend will render the bid non-responsive and subject to rejection by the District.

Proposals shall be received in the Facilities Office, San Luis Coastal Unified, 937 Southwood Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. Questions regarding Bid #336 may be directed in writing only to the Facilities Analyst II, Kelly Lee, at klee@slcusd.org, and must be submitted no later than 10:00 a.m. on Friday April 3, 2026.

Project documents are available at the San Luis Coastal Online Planroom at www.asapreprographics.com. Bidder must obtain a set of Bid and Contract Documents prior to bid opening or their bid will be rejected by the District as non-responsive.

Owner, or its designee, has determined that certain materials, services, products or things designated by specific brand or trade name shall not be subject to Public Contract Code section 3400(a) in order to match other materials, services, products or things in use on a particular Owner public improvement either completed or in the course of completion and in order to obtain a necessary item that is only available from one source. These specific materials, services, products or things are identified in San Luis Coastal Unified School District Standard Products list that was board approved on October 10, 2024

The District reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, or accept or reject any one or more items of a proposal, or to waive any irregularities or informalities in the proposals.

Kelly Lee

Facilities Analyst II San Luis Coastal Unified School District March 19 & 26, 2026

PUBLISHED NOTICE INVITING BIDS

COMMERCE WAY REHABILITATION PROJECT NO. 25-11

SEALED BIDS will be received by the City Clerk, or designee, of the City of El Paso de Robles until May 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. for the COMMERCE WAY REHABILITATION, DPW Project No. 25-11. Please be certain that any bid submitted is sealed and addressed and noted as follows:

Public Works Administration

City of El Paso de Robles

4305 Second Wind Way Paso Robles, CA 93446

Sealed Bid for COMMERCE WAY REHABILITATION, DPW Project No. 25-11

Following the closure of the bid submittal period, bids will be publicly opened and read for performing work as follows: Furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, and performing all work necessary and incidental to the construction of the project known as COMMERCE WAY REHABILITATION, DPW Project No. 25-11, according to drawings and specifications prepared by the City of El Paso de Robles and according to the Contract Documents. The work shall include, but is not limited to, curb ramp upgrades, lowering and raising of utilities, monument perpetuation, dig out repairs, placement of HMA leveling and surface course, key cut tapers and striping. Contractor to provide all necessary work plans, permits, and inspections necessary, all as shown on the plans and/or as specified herein.

Project is to be completed within Sixty (60) WORKING days from the date specified in the Notice to Proceed. The Contractor shall pay to the City of El Paso de Robles the sum of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00), for each and every calendar day’s delay in finishing the work in excess of the calendar day completion time.

The California Air Resources Board (“CARB”) implemented amendments to the In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulations (“Regulation”) which went into effect on January 1, 2024 and apply broadly to all self-propelled off road diesel vehicles 25 horsepower or greater and other forms of equipment used in California. A copy of the Regulation is available at https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/ barcu/regact/2022/off-roaddiesel/appa-1.pdf Bidders are required to comply with all CARB and Regulation requirements, including, without limitation, all applicable sections of the Regulation, as codified in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations section 2449 et seq. throughout the duration of the Project. Bidders must provide, with their Bid, copies of Bidder’s and all listed subcontractors’ most recent, valid Certificate of Reported Compliance (“CRC”) issued by CARB. Failure to provide valid CRCs as required herein may render the Bid non-responsive.

Copies of the Bid Documents are now on file and available for public inspection at Public Works Department at 1000 Spring Street, El Paso de Robles, California.  Interested bidders must obtain copies of the documents electronically.

The Contract Documents will be available electronically, at no cost, at DemandStar Paso Robles, CA.  Use the link DemandStar Paso Robles, CA to navigate to the website for out to bid projects.  To download the Bid Documents, the user must register as a user on the site.  It is the responsibility of each prospective bidder to download and print all Bid Documents for review and to verify the completeness of Bid Documents before submitting a bid.   Any Addenda will be posted at DemandStar Paso Robles, CA.

It is the responsibility of each prospective bidder to check DemandStar Paso Robles, CA on a daily basis through the close of bids for any applicable addenda or updates. DemandStar Paso Robles, CA sends email notifications to ONLY those registered on their website. The City does not assume any liability or responsibility based on any defective or incomplete copying, excerpting, scanning, faxing, downloading or printing of the Bid Documents. Information on DemandStar Paso Robles, CA may change without notice to prospective bidders. The Contract Documents shall supersede any information posted or transmitted by any other vendor besides the City.

Bidding procedures are prescribed in the Contract Documents. Each bidder must submit bid security in one of the following forms: cash, cashier’s check payable to City, a certified check payable to City, or a bid bond in the form included with the bid documents, executed by an admitted surety insurer, made payable to City in an amount equal to at least 10% of the total amount of the bid or proposal.

Pursuant to Section 1770, et seq. of the California Labor Code, the successful bidder and all subcontractors shall pay not less than the prevailing rate of per diem wages as determined by the Director of the California Department of Industrial Relations.

Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5, for bids due on or after March 1, 2015, all contractors and subcontractors that wish to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal for, or enter into a contract to perform work on the Project must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code sections 1725.5 and 1771.1. No bid will be accepted, nor any contract entered into if the bidder is not registered as required by law.

Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 22300, for monies earned by the Contractor and withheld by City of El Paso de Robles to ensure the performance of the Contract, the Contractor may, at its option, choose to substitute securities meeting the requirements of Public Contract Code Section 22300.

All bidders shall be licensed under the provisions of the Business and Professions Code to do the type of work contemplated in the project. In accordance with provisions of California Public Contract Code Section 3300, City has determined that the Contractor shall possess a valid Class A (General Engineering) License at the time that the bid is submitted. Failure to possess the specified license shall render the bid non-responsive.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish a payment bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, as well as a faithful performance bond, in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price. The bonds shall be on the forms included in the Contract Documents.

City reserves the right to reject any or all bids; to make any awards or any rejections in what it alone considers to be in the best interest of City and waive any informalities or irregularities in the bids. The contract will be awarded, if at all, to the responsible bidder that submits the lowest responsive bid. City will determine the low bid.

Date: March 26, 2026

PUBLISHED NOTICE INVITING BIDS

CRESTON ROAD CORRIDOR

IMPROVEMENTS PHASE 2

PROJECT NO. 12-12H5

SEALED BIDS will be received by the Public Works Administration, or designee, of the City of El Paso de Robles until Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. for the Creston Road Corridor Improvements Phase 2, DPW Project No. 12-12H5. Please be certain that any bid submitted is sealed and addressed and noted as follows:

City of El Paso de Robles Public Works Administration 4305 Second Wind Way Paso Robles, CA 93446

Sealed Bid for Creston Road Corridor Improvements Phase 2, DPW Project No. 12-12H5

Following the closure of the bid submittal period, bids will be publicly opened and read for performing work as follows: Furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, and performing all work necessary and incidental to the construction of the project known as Creston Road Corridor Improvements Phase 2, DPW Project No. 12-12H5, according to drawings and specifications prepared by the City of El Paso de Robles and according to the Contract Documents. The work shall include, but is not limited to, pavement rehabilitation, concrete surface improvements, sewer, water, fiber conduit, storm drain pipeline improvements, lighting improvements, signage and striping improvements, along the retaining walls, landscaping and irrigation. Contractor to provide all necessary work plans, permits, and inspections necessary, all as shown on the plans and/or as specified herein.

Work shall be completed in phases, as noted below, and only one notice to proceed will be issued.

Phase A: Phase A is that portion between Orchard and Melody Drive and includes the items with the roundabout. Work shall begin (10) days from the issuance of the Notice to Proceed. Contractor shall have (375) working days to complete the work and shall pay to the City of El Paso de Robles the sum of FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($500.00), for each and every CALENDAR day’s delay in finishing the work in excess of the working day completion time.

Phase B: Phase B is that portion between Melody Drive and Niblick Road. Work shall begin (10) days from the issuance of the Notice to Proceed. Contractor shall have (125) working days to complete the work and shall pay the City of El Paso de Robles the sum of FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($500.00), for each and every CALENDAR days delay in finishing the work in excess of the working day completion time.

Phase C: Phase C is that portion of work in front of Nick’s Barbershop. Work may begin anytime during contract duration while work occurs in either Phases A & B. However, once the contractor begins in Phase C, Contractor must complete the work within (15) working days and shall pay to the City of El Paso de Robles the sum of ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100.00), for each and every CALENDAR days delay in finishing the work in excess of the working day completion time. Furthermore, driveway access to businesses must be available at all times, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The California Air Resources Board (“CARB”) implemented amendments to the In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Fleets Regulations (“Regulation”) which went into effect on January 1, 2024, and apply broadly to all self-propelled off road diesel vehicles 25 horsepower or greater and other forms of equipment used in California. A copy of the Regulation is available at https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/ barcu/regact/2022/off-roaddiesel/appa-1.pdf Bidders are required to comply with all CARB and Regulation requirements, including, without limitation, all applicable sections of the Regulation, as codified in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations section 2449 et seq. throughout the duration of the Project. Bidders must provide, with their Bid, copies of Bidder’s and all listed subcontractors’ most recent, valid Certificate of Reported Compliance (“CRC”) issued by CARB. Failure to provide valid CRCs as required herein may render the Bid non-responsive. Copies of the Bid Documents are now on file and available for public inspection at Public Works Department at 4305 Second Wind Way, El Paso de Robles, California.  Interested bidders must obtain copies of the documents electronically.

The Contract Documents will be available electronically, at no cost, at DemandStar Paso Robles, CA.  Use the link DemandStar Paso Robles, CA to navigate to the website for out to bid projects.  To download the Bid Documents, the user must register as a user on the site.  It is the responsibility of each prospective bidder to download and print all Bid Documents for review and to verify the completeness of Bid Documents before submitting a bid.   Any Addenda will be posted at DemandStar Paso Robles, CA.

It is the responsibility of each prospective bidder to check DemandStar Paso Robles, CA on a daily basis through the close of bids for any applicable addenda or updates. DemandStar Paso Robles, CA sends email notifications to ONLY those registered on their website. The City does not assume any liability or responsibility based on any defective or incomplete copying, excerpting, scanning, faxing, downloading or printing of the Bid Documents. Information on DemandStar Paso Robles, CA may change without notice to prospective bidders. The Contract Documents shall supersede any information posted or transmitted by any other vendor besides the City.

Bidding procedures are prescribed in the Contract Documents. Each bidder must submit bid security in one of the following forms: cash, cashier’s check payable to City, a certified check payable to City, or a bid bond in the form included with the bid documents, executed by an admitted surety insurer, made payable to City in an amount equal to at least 10% of the total amount of the bid or proposal.

Pursuant to Section 1770, et seq. of the California Labor Code, the successful bidder and all subcontractors shall pay not less than the prevailing rate of per diem wages as determined by the Director of the California Department of Industrial Relations.

Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5, for bids due on or after March 1, 2015, all contractors and subcontractors that wish to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal for, or enter into a contract to perform work on the Project must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code sections 1725.5 and 1771.1. No bid will be accepted, nor any contract entered into if the bidder is not registered as required by law.

Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 22300, for monies earned by the Contractor and withheld by City of El Paso de Robles to ensure the performance of the Contract, the Contractor may, at its option, choose to substitute securities meeting the requirements of Public Contract Code Section 22300.

All bidders shall be licensed under the provisions of the Business and Professions Code to do the type of work contemplated in the project. In accordance with provisions of California Public Contract Code Section 3300, City has determined that the Contractor shall possess a valid Class A (General Engineering) License at the time that the bid is submitted. Failure to possess the specified license shall render the bid non-responsive.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish a payment bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, as well as a faithful performance bond, in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price. The bonds shall be on the forms included in the Contract Documents.

City reserves the right to reject any or all bids; to make any awards or any rejections in what it alone considers to be in the best interest of City and waive any informalities or irregularities in the bids. The contract will be awarded, if at all, to the responsible bidder that submits the lowest responsive bid. City will determine the low bid.

Free Will Astrology by Rob Brezsny

Homework: What’s a good prank you could play on yourself to be liberated from a stale fear? Newsletter.freewillastrology.com

ARIES

(March 21-April 19): Aries poet Maya Angelou proclaimed, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” In that spirit, Aries, I urge you to tell everyone everything—all your secret thoughts, hidden feelings, and private opinions. Post your diary online! Confess your fantasies to strangers! Share your unfiltered inner monologue with authority figures! April fool! I lied. Angelou urged us to bravely communicate our authentic truths, but not to overshare or be careless about observing good boundaries. Here’s the deep wisdom: Express thoughts and feelings that make you feel real and whole, but be discerning about when, where, and to whom.

TAURUS

(April 20-May 20): Taurus writer Charlotte Brontë said, “I would always rather be happy than dignified.” Given your current astrological potentials, I think you should tattoo her motto across your forehead so everyone knows you’re committed to pleasure over propriety. Burn your dressy clothes! Quit doing boring duties! Dance naked in the woods! April fool! I don’t really think you should tattoo your forehead or dance naked in public. But Brontë’s sentiment is sound: In the coming weeks, if forced to choose between joy and respectability, pick joy every time. Just do it with a modicum of common sense.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): Gemini actress Marilyn Monroe said, “A wise girl knows her limits. A smart girl knows that she has none.” I propose we expand that counsel to include all genders. And I especially recommend this approach to you right now. It’s time to shed, ignore, and surpass all your so-called limits. Be as wild and free and uninhibited as you dare. April fool! I worry that it’s irresponsible to give you such utter carte blanche. Would you consider honoring one or two limits that prevent you from indulging in crazy and extreme behavior? Otherwise, be wild and free and uninhibited!

CANCER

(June 21-July 22): Psychologist Carl Jung wrote extensively about the importance of embracing our shadows: the dark, problematic aspects of ourselves we would rather not acknowledge. In the coming weeks, I recommend that you stop hiding that weird stuff! Throw a coming-out-of-the-closet party for all the questionable parts of you. Let your inner monsters run wild! April fool! Please don’t do that. What Jung actually advocated was recognizing and integrating your shadow, not being ruled by it. So yes, explore your moody, unruly impulses, but with consciousness, kindness, and containment, not reckless expression.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22): Leo author James Baldwin observed, “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” With that in mind, I advise you to spend the next two weeks obsessively staring at every dilemma in your life. Don’t look away! Don’t take breaks! Just face every dilemma constantly until you’re overwhelmed! April fool! Baldwin’s insight is brilliant, but it doesn’t require masochistic endurance. Here’s the truth: Yes, you should courageously acknowledge what needs attention, but do so with care and discernment. And then actually work on changing it! Awareness is the beginning, not the entire process.

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Virgo author Agatha Christie wrote 66 detective novels in which she meticulously planned every plot twist. I think you should apply her approach to your daily life: Script every conversation! Anticipate every contingency! Control every variable! Leave nothing to chance! April fool! Christie’s obsessive planning worked for fiction, but life requires improvisation. For you, the coming weeks favor spontaneity and flexibility. So make rough plans, sure, but stay loose enough to experiment with whatever emerges. Overcontrol would diminish the magic.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): My favorite Libran writer didn’t capitalize her name: bell hooks. I recommend you stage a similar rebellion against all rules and structures. Ignore social conventions! Flout traffic laws! Pay your taxes with paintings and poems you’ve created! April fool! I was exaggerating. I do love hooks’ charming revolt, but it would be counterproductive for you to randomly break all the rules of daily life. Instead, be judicious and selective as you question conventions thoughtfully and only violate those that genuinely deserve to be spurned. Be a strategic rebel, not a chaotic one.

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Scorpio poet Sylvia Plath wrote this passage in her journal: “I desire the things which will destroy me in the end.” I think you should consider embracing her approach—for the sheer, exotic thrill of it! Pursue interesting chaos! If it might unravel you, welcome it passionately! The more unruly, the better! April fool! I lied. Plath was describing her struggle with depression, not offering us advice. Here’s what I think you should actually do: Examine which of your yearnings serve your evolution and which ones undermine it. Fully embrace the fact that intensity is one of your greatest gifts, but channel that intensity into experiences that build you up, not tear you down. Choose ardent aliveness over fervent destruction.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sagittarian philosopher Baruch Spinoza spent years alone in his room developing his radical ideas about God and nature. I recommend total isolation for you, too. In accordance with astrological omens, avoid human contact! Put your relationships on hold while you contemplate the infinite! April fool! I totally lied. Spinoza’s solitude served his unique genius, but a similar approach won’t work for you—especially now. Here’s what I really think you require in the coming weeks: periods of meditative alone time balanced by intervals of rich connection with interesting humans. You need to commune with both your deep inner sources and nurturing alliances.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn astrologer Linda Goodman wrote that your sign’s “ambition is boundless” and that most Capricorns dream of ruling the world. In accordance with astrological omens, I urge you to indulge this attribute. Launch a campaign for global domination! Start with your neighborhood and work your way up to more and more conquests! April fool! The truth is, world domination is exhausting and impractical. What Goodman was referring to is your gift for structure and leadership. Use your organizational genius to improve your corner of the world, not tyrannize it. Think stewardship, not empire.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian inventor Thomas Edison said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” In the spirit, I recommend that you falter spectacularly in the coming weeks. The more blunders and bungles, the better! Engage in a holy quest to seek as many fizzles and misfires as possible! Make Edison look like an amateur! April fool! I lied. Edison wasn’t deliberately courting snafus, of course. His approach was similar to that of many creative artists: driven by exploratory persistence that capitalizes on mistakes and hassles. Here’s your real guidance, Aquarius: Experiment boldly, yes, and don’t fear stumbles and bumbles. But learn from each one and adjust your approach. The goal is eventual success that’s informed by humility and resiliency.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20): Piscean physicist Albert Einstein said, “Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.” In the spirit of his genius, I recommend that you abandon logic completely! Never think rationally again! Make all decisions based on fantasy and feelings! April fool! Einstein was advocating for the creative power of imagination, not the abandonment of reason. What you truly need is a marriage of visionary thinking and practical logic. Ask your imagination to show you possibilities, then call on lucid logic to help you manifest them. ∆

By: Ditas Esperanza P.E.

Projects Engineer

Date: March 12, 2026 By: Ditas Esperanza P.E. Capital Projects Engineer

Publication Dates: - March 12, 2026 - March 26, 2026 - April 9, 2026