SLO County’s federally owned land faces development threats from the Trump administration [8]
BY LIBBEY HANSON
Camillia Lanham
Zuniga
One senator set his sights on selling federally owned land in 11 Western states, including California and on the Central Coast, as part of the Trump administration’s “Big, Beautiful Bill.” But pushback and Senate rules caused him to pull his proposal from the final budget bill that passed the Senate. At the same time, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced it was rescinding a rule protecting roadless areas that could impact national forest land, including up to 600,000 acres of the Los Padres National Forest. Staff Writer Libbey Hanson speaks to Los Padres ForestWatch and elected officials about the push for development and efforts to advocate against it [8]
OPTIONS TO LOSE WEIGHT
Also this week, read about the candidates who announced SLO County supervisor runs for 2026 home portraits in fabric, fiber, and thread [22] The Groves on 41 [30]
Camillia Lanham
Edward Barnett, Bernadette Miller, Joe Brice
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DA charges former Arroyo Grande mayoral candidate Gaea Powell with election fraud
Two-time Arroyo Grande mayoral candidate Gaea Powell faces nine criminal charges from the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office alleging election fraud in the 2022 and 2024 election cycles.
Filed on June 24, eight of those charges are felonies and one a misdemeanor. In July 2022, while living in unincorporated Arroyo Grande outside the city’s jurisdiction, Powell allegedly registered as a voter under a false city address.
Throughout the rest of 2022, the now 62-yearold reportedly filed false nomination papers for her candidacy and fraudulently voted. She also allegedly committed the misdemeanor of failing to provide written notification within 48 hours to the Secretary of State, the local filing officer, and each of her fellow mayoral candidates of receiving or expending $2,000 or more in a calendar year.
The DA’s Office stated she committed the same felonies during the 2024 election too.
“Ms. Powell’s alleged actions over multiple election cycles represent a serious breach of the public trust, and these charges demonstrate our commitment to holding accountable anyone who attempts to manipulate our elections processes,”
DA Dan Dow said in a press release. “We will always dutifully follow the evidence wherever it leads to ensure that the community can trust that there will be accountability without any political bias or motivation.”
Powell didn’t respond to New Times’ requests for comment. On July 1, she filed paperwork requesting to surrender herself on the outstanding warrant.
Powell is scheduled to be arraigned on the criminal complaint on July 15. It’s unclear if she will be booked into county jail.
“One would hope that she would be at least processed,” Assistant DA Eric Dobroth told New Times.
Powell criticized SLO County Public Health Director Penny Borenstein’s COVID-19 protocols during her 2022 bid for Arroyo Grande mayor,
Paso cuts employee paid parking program
All parking in Paso Robles is officially a freefor-all after the City Council voted to eliminate its employee paid parking program.
Its decision on the matter had been nearly a year in the works after city staff brought the parking program to the council’s attention in August 2024 and said it was more expensive to enforce than it was worth.
At the City Council’s June 17 meeting, City Manager Chris Huot presented options to move forward with the program after the city tabled a decision in December to hear input from stakeholders.
The intention behind the 2018 program, costing employees $5 per month, was an “attempt to encourage employees to avoid parking on those on-street spots,” Huot said. But the program didn’t prevent employees from using the free street parking.
Parking on downtown Paso’s streets hasn’t always been free, though. In 2019 the city also implemented a paid public parking program that was eliminated in May 2024 after public pushback.
Since the December meeting, Huot said that city staff had spoken to the Main Street Association, Travel Paso, Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance, and the Chamber of Commerce, which all opted to eliminate the paid parking program.
calling her a “dictator.”
In 2024, she attempted to reinforce her argument against the SLO County Board of Supervisors’ passing a resolution declaring June as Pride Month by playing a video of naked people at a public San Francisco Pride event. Her actions caused the supervisors to prohibit people from using county equipment during the public comment period.
During her last election run, she criticized the Arroyo Grande City Council for changing its public comment period around, accusing the body of violating First Amendment rights.
At a Paso Robles school board meeting in 2025, she denounced statistics showing increasing suicide rates among LGBTQ-plus people and said that those supporting transgender rights lacked intelligence.
According to previous New Times reporting, Powell was interested in running again for Arroyo Grande mayor in 2026.
SURRENDERED Two-time Arroyo Grande mayor-hopeful Gaea Powell filed paperwork requesting to surrender herself on July 1 after the DA’s Office charged her with nine counts of election-related crimes.
This is the second time in less than a year that the DA’s Office has slapped a South SLO County resident with criminal charges related to election fraud. In September 2024, Michelle Morrow, a write-in candidate for the 3rd District Supervisor seat, faced charges similar to Powell’s. In April 2025, Morrow was sentenced to 90 days in county jail with two years of felony
Huot proposed some options: To simply eliminate the program and make it public parking, or to eliminate the program and place “employee parking preferred signs” at the 98 designated employee parking spots near 12th and 13th streets.
Preferred parking signs wouldn’t technically prevent anyone from parking there, Huot said, and police couldn’t interfere if the public parked in those spaces.
All stakeholders but the Main Street Association wanted to return the lots to public parking with no signage—the association wanted to install the signs and use “the honor system” for enforcement.
During public comment, former City Councilmember Sharon Roden said she disagreed with the honor system and found signs to be a waste of city dollars.
“The proposed honor system for employee preferred parking is based upon deceit and deception. There’s nothing that prohibits anyone, employees, business owners, tourists, or residents, from parking where they choose to park downtown,” Roden said. “Unless someone calls to complain, are these spots even enforced?”
What snagged the June 17 discussion wasn’t whether to get rid of the program, but the best way to do that.
Resident Linda George said she also took issue with the word “preferred,” and said, for example, hotel guests could use the lots instead of paying hotel parking fees, while Main Street Association Board President Jeff Weisinger said he felt the opposite, and that installing the signs would be a “good will gesture” from the city.
Councilmember Steve Gregory said he liked the
probation for election-related crimes.
“Election security and integrity are of the utmost importance,” SLO County Clerk-Recorder Elena Cano said in a statement. “My office will always support law enforcement efforts to ensure that any allegation of fraudulent activity is investigated and handled promptly and appropriately.”
—Bulbul Rajagopal
idea of signs, but didn’t like the word “preferred” and suggested using “employee and public parking.” But Councilmember Fred Strong disagreed.
“Anyone else who knows the English language can know that they can park there if that’s where they want to park but it’s preferred for the employees,” he said.
After some back-and-forth between council members, they concluded with a 4-1 vote, Mayor John Hamon opposed, to eliminate the employee paid parking program and install signs that designate the spaces as employee and public parking.
—Libbey Hanson
Caballero battery plant announces donations, residents still concerned
With the Caballero battery energy storage plant now fully operational, owner and operator Alpha Omega Power announced donations to a Nipomo high school and 5Cities Homeless Coalition (5CHC). But residents are still wary of the facility. On July 1, Alpha Omega Power said it will donate $5,000 to Central Coast New Tech High School as part of its STEM Impact Scholarship. 5CHC— which Alpha Omega Power has been in talks with since March—will also receive $2,500 to provide housing, case management, and support services to people facing or at the risk of homelessness.
According to Alpha Omega Power spokesperson Shawna McLean, this was the energy company’s first chance to donate to a community organization since it purchased the Caballero plant in November 2024.
The donation declaration comes on the heels of the plant being fully operational as of April 1 and an open house for the public on June 4 at the Nipomo Library. Residents living near the battery plant have voiced worries about the possibility of fires and health risks after January’s Moss Landing battery plant fire in Monterey County.
According to McLean, Moss Landing was built before the National Fire Protection Association wrote the safety code standard for similar facilities in 2020. That standard, called the NFPA 855, is now the established framework for the safe installation and construction of energy storage systems like Caballero, which uses lithium-ion batteries.
“The major difference between the two is Moss Landing is one of several legacy projects built prior to the creation of specific fire safety codes for battery energy storage systems,” McLean told New Times. “Caballero development benefited from two decades of hands-on working experience with lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are a radically improved technology in contrast with certain legacy systems that are known to present fire risks.”
Still, some community residents are wary of the Caballero plant. Nipomo resident Ty Ortiz questioned Alpha Omega Power’s donations, alleging a lack of transparency in how the battery plant was set up.
“Why would you hide something and
sneak it in and build it so quickly if now you want to give back to the community?” Ortiz said. “There was no transparency on the build. We all drove by it and knew something was being built, but no one had any idea.”
On Facebook, other Nipomo residents complained that while the community received notifications about another potential battery storage project by developer NextEra, no one heard anything about Alpha Omega Power’s Caballero project except for the owner of the land Caballero now sits on.
NextEra withdrew its application in November 2024, according to a 4th District update on Facebook by SLO County Supervisor Jimmy Paulding. A second developer, esVolta, met with county staff in January 2024 for a similar battery storage project but didn’t move forward with an application or communication.
Paulding told New Times that both Caballero and the NextEra project received the same level of public notification.
“I strongly believe there should be greater public engagement in processes like these,” he said. “In this particular case, however, most of the public outreach occurred before I took office.”
The energy group submitted the Caballero project application in 2019. The project was referred to then 4th District Supervisor Lynn Compton’s office and the South County Advisory Council in 2021. The public hearing for its final conditional use permit took place in 2023.
The hearing date was posted on the county’s website and published in New Times. Property owners within 300 feet of the project were also sent mailers, Paulding said, and no objections were raised at the hearing.
“To improve notification for future projects, I successfully advocated for changes to the noticing requirements for battery energy storage system proposals,” he said. “Specifically, I pushed to expand the notification radius from 300 feet to 1,000 feet, ensuring that more nearby property owners receive mailed notice.”
—Bulbul Rajagopal
California loosens environmental rules
For decades the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) has required public agencies to consider the environmental consequences of a proposed project to prevent avoidable environmental damage. But those rules are a bit more lenient now.
On June 30, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the 2025-26 state budget amid an estimated $2 billion deficit, according to the state’s fiscal outlook report. Within that bill, Newsom also signed into law two others that would overhaul the environmental protection rules established in 1970.
A statement released by Newsom’s office said that CEQA restrictions have been a barrier to addressing the state’s housing scarcity and affordability issues and relieving some of the rules would allow faster housing permitting and approvals.
Assembly Bills 130 and 131 were directly aimed at lifting CEQA restrictions for urban housing development and high-tech industry.
Under AB 130, CEQA exemptions specific to urbanized areas would apply to builds in
places that are already built up, also called infill housing projects.
Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) told New Times she initially wasn’t in favor of AB 130 because it originally lacked any labor provisions or tribal interests. But as the bill progressed, her concerns were addressed, so she voted in favor of it.
“I felt like it was something that I could support, given the scale of California’s housing crisis and how urgently we need to act. We know that California’s cost of living has just risen astronomically and is one of the biggest causes of people falling into homelessness. It’s not because they don’t want to work,” Addis said.
Addis said that it’s difficult for people to make ends meet when housing costs so much—due to a constricted housing supply because it’s so expensive to build.
“It’s a very, very delicate balance,” she said. “It’s hugely important to me protecting the environment, … and we also need to get people housed where they are and be able to construct the kind of housing that California needs.”
When it came to the other bill, AB 131, Addis said she didn’t vote in favor of it because she took more issue with the environmental implications it could have.
“[AB] 131 was less about housing and more about large industrial projects that really could have an impact on our environment. It also posed greater dangers to endangered species,” she said. ∆
As the Trump administration and Republican lawmakers aim to free up federal land for development, areas within the Los Padres National Forest are in their sights.
But local nonprofits and lawmakers are advocating to prevent major changes in the area.
The future of federal land once depended on the Trump administration’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill,” an ongoing effort that the White House said intends to create tax breaks throughout the country by investing in American infrastructure, lowering energy costs, and bringing jobs back to the U.S., among other things, according to the White House’s website.
Nestled within the bill, also known as a budget reconciliation bill, was Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee’s proposition to sell plots of federally owned land in 11 states, California included. After pushback, Lee eventually rescinded his proposition‚ first on Forest Service land, and then on Bureau of Land Management land.
Los Padres ForestWatch Director of Conservation and Research Bryant Baker told New Times that Lee’s BLM proposition could have affected 1.5 million acres of land in California, 128,000 of which are in Kern, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties.
Specific parcels included several hundred acres within San Luis Obispo County’s Irish Hills adjacent to Montaña de Oro State Park, a large parcel above Whale Rock Reservoir near Cayucos, and some scattered parcels along the Salinas River east of Santa Margarita, among others throughout the counties.
Baker said that Lee received resistance from Democrats, advocacy groups, and members of his own party.
“A lot of campaigns started to really push back on this, and there was a lot of intensive advocacy aimed at senators across the Western United States and there were a lot of news—big, high profile news stories—about the land sale
provision, and I think Sen. Lee was definitely feeling a lot of pressure,” Baker said.
While Lee’s first version passed the House, it didn’t pass the Senate. On June 23, Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough said that the bill, as is, would require a 60-vote threshold to pass, rather than a majority 50, so Lee said he would return with revisions.
On June 24, he removed national forest land sales from the bill and announced that BLM land would only be eligible if it was within 5 miles of inhabited areas and wasn’t being used for oil and gas and wasn’t a national monument.
“I’m still listening,” Lee posted on X that day. “I’m working closely with the Trump administration to ensure that any federal land sales serve the American people—not foreign governments, not the Chinese Communist Party, and not massive corporations looking to pad their portfolios. This land must go to American families. Period.”
Although Lee’s land sale proposals were removed from the Big, Beautiful Bill, he posted on Instagram that he still believes the federal government owns too much land.
“Under Democratic presidents, massive swaths of the West are being locked away from the people who live there, with no meaningful recourse,” he posted on June 28. “That has real consequences for [residents]—from raising taxes for schools and funding local search-andrescue operations, to being able to build homes and sustain rural communities.”
As Lee’s provision was being revised, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) intention to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule that restricts roadmaking and industrial logging on 58 million acres of land.
According to Baker, 600,000 of those acres lie within the Los Padres National Forest,
which contains 37 roadless areas and 349 miles of hiking and recreation trails.
Baker said the administration’s plan of action regarding the Roadless Rule is unknown.
“It is not entirely clear what the mechanism for how they’re going to rescind it is. So currently, all that’s out there right now is a press release saying that they’re going to rescind it,” he said.
A USDA spokesperson told New Times via email that the agency saw this effort as necessary for forest health.
“Rescinding this overly prescriptive rule will give federal foresters and land managers the latitude to work alongside the communities they serve to make locally driven land management decisions based on their unique local conditions—reducing wildfire risk, protecting infrastructure, and keeping forests healthy,” the spokesperson said. “Roads improve access for wildland firefighting when timing is critical, and lives are at risk.
Central Coast lawmakers don’t feel the same as the USDA.
U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) told New Times via email that he saw repealing the Roadless Rule as a “reckless step backward.”
“For more than two decades, this policy has safeguarded nearly 58 million acres of unspoiled national forest. Dismantling it now would threaten our environment’s long-term health,” he said. “I will oppose this shortsighted decision with every tool at my disposal— including renewing efforts to pass my Central Coast Heritage Protection Act, which has previously passed the House with bipartisan support.”
According to ForestWatch’s Baker, Carbajal has tried to pass the Central Coast Heritage Protection Act for nearly 10 years but hasn’t been able to gain enough support in the Senate.
The bill proposes designating Los Padres National Forest as wilderness, which comes with more protections.
“Eliminating the Roadless Rule would allow these road networks to be built, commercial—big, intensive, commercial— logging operations to happen, and all of that could significantly degrade the wilderness characteristics of these areas, and that would make them so that they couldn’t get that even higher level of protection as designated wilderness,” Baker said.
U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) is working to make the Roadless Rule a law, which would solidify it as a statute.
“Rescinding this rule is a deliberate attempt to erode conservation efforts under the guise of addressing wildfire threats,” Padilla told New Times via email. “If Republicans have their way, California will lose protections for about 4.4 million acres across 20 national forests—from the beauty of Tahoe to the majestic landscape of the Los Padres National Forest. Our public lands and natural spaces are some of our nation’s greatest gifts, and I will do everything I can to protect them.”
Staff Writer Libbey Hanson
PHOTO COURTESY OF BRYANT BAKER
County contenders
SLO County’s 2026 supervisorial races will see new blood in the 2nd District and a defender in the 4th
Vying for the San Luis Obispo County 2nd District supervisor seat next year, SLO Chamber of Commerce CEO
Jim Dantona, like sitting Supervisor Bruce Gibson, is no stranger to recounts.
In 2000, the then-28-year-old Dantona, demanded a recount of votes cast in the race for a Rancho Simi Valley Parks District seat. Dantona lost to his opponent Kate O’Brien by three votes.
“I had three friends that helped me on the campaign that day, and said, ‘Oh, Jim, I forgot to vote today,’” Dantona said with a laugh. “Every vote matters, and especially local. I’m such a huge advocate for people being involved in government.”
Against the backdrop of the larger recount dispute in Florida’s Bush v. Gore presidential election, the Dantona v. O’Brien recount ended quietly, with Dantona conceding and congratulating the winner.
According to an LA Times article announcing the end of the recount, his father, Jim Dantona Sr.—a veteran political analyst who worked for Gov. Gray Davis when he was state controller—said he hoped to see his son get his “foot in the door politically.”
Twenty-five years later, Dantona is gunning for his political debut by throwing his hat into the ring for the SLO County 2nd District Supervisor seat.
Current North Coast supervisor Bruce Gibson will not seek reelection in 2026, putting an end to his tenure after 20 years.
Dantona told New Times that a community member convinced him to run for supervisor after Gibson announced his decision. He said he was sad to lose Gibson as a supervisor, given his decades of experience and advocacy for the district.
“I was just kind of bummed, especially as from the SLO chamber, we work closely with the county and cities,” he said.
Dantona’s been a front-row observer to politics for 15 years. Before moving to the Central Coast, he served as chief of staff to former LA City Councilmembers Nury Martinez, Tony Cardenas, and Wendy Greuel.
“Watching these elected officials who care deeply about their community think about what’s the appropriate levers to pull, what’s best for the bigger community, what’s best for the neighborhood, and are those things aligned … was incredibly valuable,” he said. An aspect of Gibson’s tenure Dantona said he’d like to emulate is preserving open space. That’s something the lifelong Democrat thinks unites conservatives and liberals across the board.
“If you ask the far left and if you ask the far right whether they believe it should be used for agriculture or hiking or just preservation, you can bridge the gap there and find common ground that people are like, ‘Yes, I’ve had this ranch in my family for hundreds of years, and I want it to be preserved well into the future,” Dantona said. “You could do the same for somebody like ECOSLO or an environmental group, and they’d be like, ‘Yes, we want to do that.’”
The 2nd District stretches from the
Monterey County line to Los Osos and parts of SLO, including San Simeon, Harmony, Cayucos, and Cambria.
To Dantona, homelessness is the priority to tackle if he wins the seat. Affordable rental housing and homelessness continue to be the most pressing needs for county residents, according to the 2025 Community Development Needs Assessment Report.
“The county is really the feet of that issue,” Dantona said. “When I talk about homelessness and the unhoused, it really goes back to the base of housing in general.”
Over Gibson’s tenure and even in the years prior, Los Osos has battled water issues and faced debates about the condition of the town’s only source of water—the Los Osos Valley Groundwater Basin. The area suffered from groundwater depletion, seawater intrusion, and nitrate contamination, ultimately triggering a building moratorium in the 1980s. Los Osos broke free from its nearly four-decade-long moratorium last year.
While Dantona said that the county needs to rethink water distribution, there needs to be planning to sustain aquifers and water levels for long-term resilience.
“We also can find places and the right places to think about building new housing and efficient housing, because a home built in 1920 is probably not as water efficient as a home built in 2025,” he said.
In December, Dantona will step down as CEO of the SLO Chamber of Commerce after seven years. He’s gearing up to attend community meetings, organize fundraisers, and get to know the North Coast community better.
Dantona might have competition in Morro Bay resident Michael Erin Woody. The Republican ran for the 24th Congressional District seat in 2018 and 2020, ultimately won by Rep. Salud Carbajal.
On June 20, Woody shared a screenshot on Facebook of his upcoming website for the 2026 supervisor race. He also posted photos of campaign signs. He didn’t respond to New Times’ request for an interview.
Act now!
litigation against the county with regard to water relief impact and trout—that’s a really top concern for South County, because it’s jeopardizing our water supply potentially.”
Recently, Paulding faced heat from some Nipomo residents living near the 100-megawatt Caballero battery facility. They were concerned about potential fires and other health risks after the Moss Landing battery plant in Monterey County caught fire in January.
Coalition of Labor, Agriculture, and Business Executive Director Andy Caldwell criticized the county in a Feb. 3 CalCoastNews opinion piece, adding that people living between the Five Cities Area and Orcutt are within the “toxic-gas blast zone.” Paulding called Caldwell’s information inaccurate.
“In any case, you’re never going to be able to mitigate all risks,” he said. “But technology of the Caballero battery storage project is very different than the Moss Landing facility. I think when people in the community learn more about the technology and the emergency response planning, they feel a lot better about it.”
Send any news or story tips to news@newtimesslo.com.
South County voters will also get the chance to pick their supervisor next year. Incumbent 4th District Supervisor Jimmy Paulding announced his decision to run for reelection on June 26. There were no official contenders for the 4th District race as of June 30.
The greatest lesson he’s learned since becoming supervisor in 2022, Paulding told New Times, was quickly adapting to find solutions to issues coming before the board.
“The most urgent issue facing District 4, I would say … is affordability, affordable housing, and making sure we have enough programs that support the vulnerable in our community,” he said. “On the other hand, dealing with issues like Lopez Lake and the
During his term, Paulding led the update of Nipomo Community Plan to steer responsible future growth, advocated for senior citizen care by highlighting the Master Plan on Aging, kicked off the process for the Sheriff’s substation in Nipomo, and even conducted volunteer beautification projects around parks in areas like Arroyo Grande and Oceano. He’ll launch his campaign at a formal event in Heritage Park in Arroyo Grande on July 26.
“I’ve got a track record of success in my ability to deliver on a number of projects and tackle community needs,” Paulding said. “For example, we’ve seen a 19 percent reduction in homelessness over the course of my tenure in office. That’s because of the many partnerships and the hard work of staff and other community partners.” ∆
Reach Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal at brajagopal@newtimesslo.com.
NEW AMBITION SLO Chamber of Commerce CEO Jim Dantona will run for the 2nd District supervisorial seat next year, with a focus on addressing homelessness and open space preservation.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JIM DANTONA
The race is on
Interested in running 13.1 miles from SLO to Avila? You’re in luck, because Cuesta College’s City to the Sea half marathon and 5K races are back after taking a hiatus in 2024.
This year, Natalie Rodriguez is helping organize the Nov. 16 event. She became a leader in the San Luis Obispo running community when starting the Run SLO Club last year, a casual and inclusive running group that’s free and open to all levels of runners.
Rodriguez said she sees the return of City to the Sea as a way to connect the community.
“Running has become a little bit more popular, in my opinion, with run clubs and … I think people are starting to realize the impact the running community has, which is awesome,” she said. “I love to see it. I love seeing people come together. And so having a race this local really brings that out.”
City to the Sea half marathon and 5K races started in 1995 as a way to help fundraise for the Cuesta College cross country and track teams, and the fundraising focus still continues to today.
Promote!
“It’s really important to the race directors and to the community to support Cuesta College and their cross country and track teams,” she said. “That’s the main significance, is to really highlight the fundraising aspect toward the teams.”
The tradition has continued since 1995 except for last year when the race was canceled due to permitting and parking issues, Rodriguez said.
In the past, the half marathon race had started in downtown SLO and ended near Dinosaur Caves Park near Pismo Beach. This year, the race will start at Mission Plaza and end at the Avila Beach resort.
Along the 13.1-mile journey, Rodriguez said runners will pass some of SLO’s most iconic sites, like the Fremont Theater, High Street Deli, Sunset Drive-In, and the Bob Jones Trail.
“We really wanted to showcase San Luis Obispo for people who are traveling outside of town, just to really capture the essence of SLO as you’re racing through downtown,” Rodriguez said.
The race’s absence last year didn’t go unnoticed, Rodriguez said, as the event now has more than 1,000 registered runners after opening in May.
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“That is a record in terms of the timeline,” she said. “I feel like that truly reflects, A, just how excited people are, and B, just how much people have gotten into the sport and really enjoy that community aspect. It’s really cool to see.”
The group hopes to sell out the event this year, which hasn’t happened since 2014, Rodriguez said, with the half marathon capped at 2,500 participants and the 5K at 500.
“People are also gathering their own groups and planning to race together,” Rodriguez said. “So I’m hoping to also reach other run clubs throughout California and let them know we’d love to have your run club. Like, let’s make this bigger and better sort of thing.”
While 13.1 miles can feel terrifying, or even borderline impossible, Rodriguez said Cuesta College has an online training program that’s designed to help prepare all runners to reach their goal, whether it’s meeting a certain time or even just completing the race. The program starts on Aug. 11 and supports runners right up to race day for $46.
For those not feeling up to the challenge but still want to be involved, Rodriguez said the race needs volunteers to help set up, take down, and hand out water and snacks at the stops every mile. They also need pacers to help runners gauge their running pace.
General registration for the race is open now through October, where it will then head into
CHAFE YOUR DREAMS Cuesta College’s City to the Sea half marathon and 5K races are back this year in support of the school’s cross country and track teams with a route stretching from Downtown
to Avila Beach.
late registration prices. Registration will be open as long as there are open spots, Rodriguez said. For more information, visit the race’s new website at: citytothesearun.com.
Fast fact
• On June 27, the California State Library Parks Pass program was reinstated into the California state budget after being cut a few weeks ago. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the budget bill shortly after legislative approval, officially securing funding for the $6.75 million program through Dec. 31, 2026. According to the California State Parks Foundation, 8,000 Californians use the program each year. For more information about the pass visit: https://www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=30806. ∆
Reach Staff Writer Libbey Hanson at lhanson@newtimesslo.com.
San Luis Obispo should look to New York
Afew weeks ago, I stood in front of the SLO County government building in downtown San Luis Obispo alongside fellow Code Pink activists to mark the anniversary of the Nakba and to mourn the more than 15,000 Palestinian children killed by Israeli forces. Some of us held signs bearing the names of the children. Others carried shrouded dolls labeled with causes of death—starvation, hypothermia, or bullets. It was lunchtime, and workers from nearby government offices and courtrooms filtered past us. A few paused to read our signs or take an informational handout. Most moved on, polite but disengaged. One sharply broke the quiet: a well-dressed man glanced at our signs and called out, “Jew haters.” How have we reached a point where mourning dead children and protesting war crimes are equated with antisemitism? This kind of moral confusion is not just intellectually lazy—it is dangerous. And it’s mild compared to what New York Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani has faced: threats, slurs, and relentless attacks for daring to criticize Israel’s conduct. But Mamdani is not alone. A recent Data for
The majority of us aren’t in the American Dream club
George Carlin once suggested that the concept of the American Dream is a tool used by “the owners” to keep people placid and focused on trivial things, preventing them from realizing how rigged the system is against them.
“It’s a big club, and you and me ain’t in it.”
This concept has never proved to be so resoundingly accurate as it has in the last four months where we’ve all seen complete and total disregard of the laws and ethical
Progress poll found that nearly 70 percent of Democrats now hold a negative view of Israel’s government. Among Jewish Americans, another poll reveals that 30 percent overall— and 38 percent of those under 44—believe Israel is committing genocide. Even Matthew Miller, a former spokesperson for the Biden administration and longtime Israel supporter, recently acknowledged that Israel is committing war crimes in Gaza.
If New York can produce leaders like Mamdani who are unafraid to speak the truth, San Luis Obispo’s elected Democrats can too. It’s time for our representatives to stop hiding behind outdated narratives and start reflecting the values of their constituents. That means publicly opposing arms sales to Israel and voting accordingly.
We also need our local Democratic leadership to step up to the plate, including nonpartisan groups like Indivisible. So far, they have ignored requests by pro-Palestinian groups to champion their cause.
We do not need polite indifference. We need moral courage.
Jill Stegman Grover Beach
standards surrounding conflicts of interest wherein our current president and his family have profited from his position. We have all been witness to the largest money-grab in American history and few are doing anything about it.
Qatar handed over a $400 million luxury Boeing 747 jetliner; private individuals spent $148 million on a meme coin in a contest to dine with his majesty; Abu Dhabi committed $2 billion to World Liberty Financial, the family crypto company; Saudi Arabia gifted $2 billion to Jared Kushner from its public investment fund; Don Jr. co-owns “The
Executive Branch” where membership costs $500,000; Eric partnered with DarGlobal to secure the Dubai Trump International Hotel; and Vietnam just approved construction of a $1.5 billion golf resort in Hung Yen province in exchange for tariff reductions.
And then there’s the Trump Gold iPhone and the $5 million Trump Gold Card offered to wealthy foreigners who want a shortcut to U.S. citizenship. Finally, the Big, Beautiful Bill Act kicks 16 million Americans off their health insurance, makes the largest cuts to nutrition assistance in history, and makes higher education less affordable, all to pay for massive tax cuts that directly benefit billionaires. Two years from now, people making more than $500,000 per year will receive a collective $168 billion tax reduction. And there’s absolutely nothing that any of us can do about it.
Brent Jorgensen Pismo Beach
We’re less polarized than politicians think, but we need to talk to each other
Thanks to Glen Starkey for his article “Let’s agree to agree” (June 19) about a unique opportunity to create a reasonable conversation between the left and the right about gun culture.
Nobody in the arts news business is better than Starkey, always clueing locals in about upcoming concerts, movies, poetry and visual arts, but this was entirely different, something I would have never known about had I not read about it in New Times
Not only are guns a tricky subject to have a conversation about, but the event was sponsored by a local chapter California Rifle & Pistol Association (CRPA) with a lot of members in attendance and raffle tickets to win a gun given at the front door.
Sociologist and author David Yamane was
the perfect person to bridge the political divide on the subject because he made the transition from someone afraid of and ignorant about guns to one who enjoys using guns and able to see gun ownership as normal, a journey he describes in his book Gun Curious: A liberal professor’s surprising journey inside America’s gun culture.
The discussion at the end was honest, civil, and informative, and I felt such a strong sense of community with the group even as we explored entirely different perspectives.
Studies show that the American people are much less polarized on issues than our politicians are. We need to get out and talk to each other. Local organizations like Braver Angels and the League of Women Voters Civil Discourse Committee, and now the CRPA, are making these conversations happen because that is our way forward.
Thanks to Starkey and New Times I was able to experience this and I am grateful.
Anne Quinn San Luis Obispo
The ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ will destroy us
I am a lifelong Republican. I have developed a new reason to hate getting older. It means I will have only a few more opportunities to vote against all of the elected buffoons from the top down who voted for this “Big, Beautiful Bill” that will destroy our country. The only reason for anyone to support this bill is some perceived threat to themselves. The poor will suffer, and the deficit will cause the U.S. dollar to cease being the world currency. Our nation will slide back into a master-serf nation similar to the early years of England. Shame on all of you so called elected representatives of the people.
David Ekbom Grover Beach
HODIN Russell Hodin
BY JOHN DONEGAN
Richard Donald Phipps
Richard Donald Phipps was born on November 25, 1939, at Pioneer Hospital, Los Angeles, to Richard Aye Phipps and Marie Phipps. Cost of birth (including 5 nights in hospital): $73.00. He obviously charmed the nurses, beginning a skill found useful throughout life…
Raised in the mission town of San Gabriel, Richard spent time with fellow mischief makers that evolved into many deep lifelong friendships. Horse packing trips into eastern Sierra back country and adventures in the high desert developed a lifelong appreciation of freedom and open lands. His drawing skills were already well underway when he designed the “Matador” alma mater for the 1955 opening of San Gabriel High School. While there he played football (without distinction) and was student body president in his 1957 senior year. His art career began as one of the first two caricature artists hired when Disneyland opened in 1958.
During his undergraduate years at UC Santa Barbara he worked as a studio artist and copy writer in the days of live television at KEY-TV. Travelling to NYC to interview for jobs in Madison Ave and Esquire Magazine made his decision to avoid a “corporate art career” and focus instead on his personal vision. He returned to LA, taking a job as a meat truck driver, earning money to travel to Europe with life-long friend Bob Chambers. Living in Alicante, Spain, he experienced the depth of ancient cultural history, Renaissance art, and its influence on him. He witnessed Franco’s fascism, beaten by “authorities” for being outspoken (silence never was his strong suit). He wrecked the same Volkswagen multiple times.
He returned briefly to UCSB. He then enlisted in the Army, serving as an Artillery intelligence analyst during the Cuban Missile Crisis and was honorably discharged from Reserve duty in 1968. During this period he completed a BA with Honors at UCSB, won a Ford Foundation scholarship, and a full tuition
Ithought I’d take a break from all of the grievances, divisions, and outrage of our culture wars, and write about how, despite all the opportunistic goading by our politicians and media, we actually all get along with each other pretty well. This allows me to recount a few of my favorite stories from my long and undistinguished career in rugby, which illustrate my belief that the social contract is stronger than we give it credit for.
The parade
Rugby players are an ethnically and culturally diverse bunch united by our love of the game, and by beer. At the Old Boys (seniors) level where I mainly played, we geriatrics claimed to still be fit enough to play but mostly just wanted a chance to drink beer and regale each other with tales of “how good we used to be.” Our exploits grew ever more glorious with each retelling and with each beer.
The showers
At another tournament at the Polo Grounds, my team was eliminated early on, and we slouched back to the locker room to clean up. As we showered, we were surprised when a women’s rugby team entered, stripped, and joined us in the showers. What followed was the most impressive display of nonchalance I have ever seen. No rugger wanted to be thought priggish or be seen fleeing from the room shrieking about an affront to their modesty. We all reckoned that since there was only one locker room, the women’s team was every bit as entitled to use it as we were. It was one of the few instances in which having a stranger ask, “Can I borrow your shampoo, dear?” wouldn’t be terrifying.
The memorial
scholarship to Yale University Summer School of Art in 1963. During 1964 Richard and his first wife lived for a year in Marfil de las Minas, Mexico (west of Guanajuato), where he painted and learned the art of spinning, dyeing, and weaving wool from local masters. From there, a move to a studio in Santa Monica. 1966 found him as a foundryman, assisting casting bronze sculptures, and an MFA from UCLA. In 1968 he began teaching at UCSB, established a studio in Montecito, and later taught at Santa Barbara City College. Exploration and an appreciation of mountain and desert landscapes during this time contributed further energy to his art.
Richard moved to Los Osos in 1988, establishing residence and his studio in Baywood Park. Initially teaching at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, he then began 30 years of art and drawing instruction at Cuesta College, retiring in December 2022. In 1997 he married Tika Solnar, an accomplished artist in her own right. Together they supported each other’s art careers along with other adventures including fly fishing, rock hounding, professional jewelry creation, proficiency in firearms, writing, and other exploits not mentioned, until Tika’s death in 2023.
Richard is survived by his brother along with niece and nephew, two children from his first marriage, three stepchildren, and two step granddaughters. His long history of friends, fellow teachers, students, and mentors is beyond mention here. He was fortunate to have met, worked with, and shared experiences with some of the best in his field. His paintings, with their vibrant energy and powerful colors, remain unique and unmatched. Richard’s end goal was to paint until he no longer could. Having achieved that, he was ready to depart. He did so peacefully among friends on May 24, 2025.
A Celebration of Richard’s Life will be announced at a later date.
In San Francisco, most rugby is played at the Polo Grounds, a vast oval containing six playing fields, enclosed by a track, and then by bleachers. On a fine spring day in 1985, we gathered for a tournament at a couple of the fields at the end of the oval, with the idle players gathering in the bleachers between their games to drink from the kegs provided and watch the other games. Sipping a beer, I noticed a group gathering at the distant end of the oval, and heard drumbeats and brass instruments. They soon began to march around the track in our direction.
As the band approached, I noticed that most of the marchers wore brightly colored tutus, tights, or other flamboyant gear, and were led by a prancing bearded baton twirler. I correctly surmised that they were the Gay Freedom Day Marching Band of local fame.
My amusement quickly turned to concern as I contemplated the likelihood of homophobic jeering from some of the hundreds of drunken ruggers in the stands as the band passed. While players tend to be a pretty decent bunch, this was the mid 1980s and the band was pretty “over the top.” And did I mention we were drunk? Even sober, ruggers are not a group particularly known for filtering. Others probably shared my concern.
The tension grew as the band approached, stopped, turned to face the stands, and played a tune. The crowd applauded, and then in the most fraught moment, one of the teams in the stands stood up to sing a reply. The singing of profoundly bawdy songs which would surely traumatize today’s woke, is a long tradition at rugby parties, and we braced ourselves for something appalling.
To our utter relief, they then sang an acapella rendition of Tony Bennett’s “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.” The band then applauded, pivoted, struck up a tune, and continued their march around the track, and we returned to our beer drinking.
Shortly after the 9/11 attacks, my club played the San Francisco Fog, a new team with a gay identity. One of their members, Mark Bingham, had been one of the heroes on Flight 93 who fought back and prevented the plane from reaching Washington, D.C. The party afterward was a relatively somber affair, with toasts and reveries of Mark as we shared our common admiration for his heroics at a time when we were all Americans together.
My point?
We have a lot more in common than we have differences, and we can usually work through our differences respectfully and without supervision or intervention. We largely agree on what is reasonable and fair. Despite vast differences in culture and background, we generally get on well together. Perhaps the concept of “microaggressions” was created by those needing to be outraged by something but who were disappointed by the lack of objectively offensive interactions in their day-to-day lives.
Let’s keep it up and not let the voices in politics and the media turn us against each other to serve their own purposes. And now we return to our regularly scheduled programming … . ∆
John Donegan is a retired attorney in Pismo Beach who spent more time at the keg than on the field. Send a response for publication to letters@newtimesslo.com.
What’s the biggest takeaway from the county grand jury’s report on frat parties in SLO?
35% No neighbors were invited to the task force studying large parties.
In the dark
I’ve been champing at the gears since I heard about the election fraud allegations against Gaea Powell—the candidate who was so easy to hate.
Her two runs for Arroyo Grande mayor were full of holier-than-thou accusations against local governing bodies about everything from First Amendment rights to favoring the LGBTQ-plus community to vaccines and mask mandates, going so far as to call our public health director a “dictator.”
This supposed “patriot” who railed against “bad actors” now stands accused of eight felonies associated with election fraud. I’m flabbergasted!
Who does that?
Apparently, “a leader, not a state puppet politician,” as she declares on her Gaea for Mayor website. “Protect local landowner’s property rights,” she also declares. “Restore American values.”
Apparently, following election and voting rules are not such an American value, amirite?
And why is she the second South County conservative candidate to be charged with similar things? Inquiring minds want to know, Randall Jordan, does the Republican Party of San Luis Obispo condone this sort of behavior?
Michelle Morrow, who ran as a writein candidate in the county’s 3rd District supervisor race in 2024, was sentenced to 90 days in jail and two years of felony probation for filing false nomination papers and fraudulent voting for her run against Dawn Ortiz-Legg in the March primary. She
registered to vote at an address she didn’t live at so she could run for office. Was it worth it?
This is exactly what Powell’s being accused of—and more. In addition to voter registration fraud, fraudulent voting, and filing a false declaration of candidacy, District Attorney Dan Dow’s office filed charges against her for failing to file campaign finance reports as well. Following campaign finance law? Apparently not an American value either.
“Ms. Powell’s alleged actions over multiple election cycles represent a serious breach of the public trust,” Dow said in a press release. “These charges demonstrate our commitment to holding accountable anyone who attempts to manipulate our elections processes.”
It’s good that Dow—a staunch and, at times, very loud right-winger—is holding those in his own party accountable for election fraud. However, others in his party aren’t stepping up. Those who have accused the county’s voting system of being rigged and fraudulent have been uncharacteristically quiet while their chosen candidates work their way through the justice system.
Politics have no place in the justice system, which Dow also said in his press release. But, in the past, he maybe hasn’t always practiced what he preached.
Remember Tianna Arata? The SLO County District Attorney’s Office was disqualified from prosecuting the case
against her thanks to Dow and a conflict of interest. His reelection campaign sent out an email less than 48 hours after his office charged Arata with 13 misdemeanors for her role in leading Black Lives Matter protests in San Luis Obispo.
“He really needs your financial support so that he can keep leading the fight in SLO County against the wacky defund the police movement and anarchist groups that are trying to undermine the rule of law and public safety in our community,” the email said.
The line between politics and the justice system was looking real fuzzy there, but perhaps Dow’s seen the light.
It gets dark in ideological land sometimes. So dark that it’s easy to forget what our real values should be—like not committing election fraud, for instance.
For Paso Robles, everyone seems to forget why it started a paid parking program to begin with—before it led the entire city into the dark to fight over so many things.
Speak up!
The parking conversation, which began well before former City Manager Ty Lewis stepped into his role at the city’s helm, basically resulted in his undoing and the city’s descent into a weird sort of madness.
mess in the first place, finally reverted back to pre-2019 status quo.
Complaints about downtown businesses’ employees taking downtown customers’ spots spurred so many things, including designated parking lots for employees filled with parking spots they needed to pay to park in.
And now, after a year of grappling with complaints about the city’s solution to the something city residents had been complaining about, it’s over.
There’s no more paid parking in downtown Paso Robles—not for you, not for me, not for visitors, and definitely not for City Councilmember Steve Gregory He’s been talking about parking for quite some time.
“I don’t want to talk about parking anymore,” Gregory said during a 2018 meeting. “I want something done. Let’s get something accomplished.”
Send us your views and opinion to letters@newtimesslo.com.
That’s the oversimplified version, obviously, but still.
Certain Paso residents treated the downtown paid parking program as if it was Lewis’ idea. It wasn’t.
Employee parking, which is one of the reasons Paso ended up in the paid parking
Back then, the city opted to study what it would take to build a parking garage. Turns out, those things cost beaucoup bucks. Just ask the city of SLO, which has its own paid parking program problems and residents who don’t want to pay to play.
Little did Gregory know in March of 2018 that in June of 2025, he would still be talking about parking.
I never get sick of talking about parking. It brings out people’s dark side. Kind of like politics. ∆
The Shredder has a paid parking spot that other people always park in. Send tow trucks to shredder@newtimesslo.com.
Hot Dates
CENTRAL COAST CIRCUS
This year’s Circus Vargas theme is Hollywood Dreams! An homage to Tinseltown’s Golden Age, the production featuring world-renowned artists—a California tradition since 1969—will be in town from Friday, June 27, to Monday, July 14, at San Luis Obispo’s Madonna Inn meadows. The celebration takes its inspiration from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s heyday, and has a range of engaging acts for the whole family. Showtimes vary and ticket prices range from $25 to $85. For more information, visit circusvargas.com.
—Angie Stevens
ARTS
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
ANYONE CAN LEARN TO OIL PAINT Art Center Morro Bay every Thursday for the “Anyone Can Learn to Oil Paint” oil painting series. More information can be found at the link. First Thursday of every month, 6-8:30 p.m. through July 17 $145. (805) 772-2504. artcentermorrobay. org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.
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.
JULY ARTISTS RECEPTION AND ATRIUM PARTY FOR GREG SIRAGUSA, PATRICIA NEWTON AND HOPE MYERS
Head to the Gallery at Marina Square to meet the month’s featured artists, discover new art, and be amazed.
July 12 , 3-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
THE REBOOT: STORYTELLING
REIMAGINED PRESENTS
UNCONVENTIONAL METHODS Enjoy this curated story show, featuring renowned local tellers and new voices sharing true personal stories about taking risks and going rogue. Also, there will be audience 99-second stories!
July 11 7-9:15 p.m. Free. facebook.com/ the.reboot4u. Red Barn at Los Osos
Community Park, 2180 Palisades Ave., Los Osos.
UNCORK YOUR CREATIVITY: COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY Offering a unique opportunity to sip wine while painting stunning ocean-inspired landscapes. All materials included. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $60. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint.com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
“SPLASH INTO SUMMER” Check out the three-month water focused exhibit “Splash Into Summer” which will inspire you to cool you down over the hot summer months. July 5 , 6-9 p.m. Free. (805) 286-4430. Park Street Gallery, 1320 Park Street, Paso Robles, parkstreetgallery.com.
3 ARTISTS RETROSPECTIVE REVEAL Susan Lyon, Maryanne Nucci, and Kathy Madonna invite you to visit their Retrospective Show including original photographs, charcoals, watercolors, etchings, linocuts, and mono prints. Saturdays, 2-5 p.m. (805) 440-7152. cottontailcreek.com/susanart. Pocket Gallery on Pine, 8491/2 13th Street, Paso Robles.
ART HISTORY PLATE SERIES: 3RD CLASS SURREALISM Create an 8” x 8” fused glass plate inspired by the artists of the Surrealism movement. A brief overview and examples will be provided. July 12 , 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $125. (805) 464-2633. glassheadstudio.com. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, Atascadero.
BEGINNING IMPROV CLASSES Join Top Grade Comedy Theater for beginning improv classes. First Monday of every
month, 6-8 p.m. through Jan. 2 $15. (805) 242-1443. Saunter Yoga and Wellness, 5820 Traffic Way, Atascadero.
DAILY POTTERY Walk in, pick your pottery project, and paint away. Something for all ages. Prices vary depending on what you choose and includes; paint, glaze, firing, and studio time. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Varies. (805) 400-9107. artsocial805. com. ArtSocial 805 Creative Campus, 631 Spring St., Paso Robles.
FIRST SATURDAY: ART AND WINE On the first Saturday of each month, attend for the venue’s exhibit openings, with live music, art, and wine available for purchase. First Saturday of every month, 6-9 p.m. through Sept. 6 Free (wine $10). (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.
FUN WITH FLORALS PASTEL CLASS Join artists Anne Laddon and Terez Tyni for a vibrant workshop where you’ll create your own pastel floral masterpiece. July 13 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $45. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.
JULY FIRST SATURDAY Peruse “Earth Gowns: Earth, Air, Fire, Water” while enjoying music by Marco Patson and wine from our library collection. July 5 6-9 p.m. Free. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org/events/july-firstsaturday/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., 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.
WRITERS WANTED Novelists, screenwriters, poets and short story writers welcome. This group meets in Atascadero twice a month, on Thursday nights (email jeffisretired@yahoo.com for specifics). Hone your skills for publication and/or personal development. First Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. Unnamed Atascadero location, Contact host for details, Atascadero.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ART AFTER DARK Art After Dark features an art opening of world-class artists. Refreshments will be served. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. through March 7 Free. slocountyarts.org/art-afterdark. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.
BEGINNING WATERCOLOR WITH JAN FRENCH Come be introduced to the personality and potential of this tricky but dynamic medium. Geared for beginners or watercolor artists who would like to freshen up. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through July 31 $130. (805) 747-4200. i0.wp.com/artcentralslo. com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ Beginner-WC-French-July25. jpg?fit=1275%2C1650&ssl=1. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CENTRAL COAST COMEDY THEATER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW An ongoing improv comedy program featuring the CCCT’s Ensemble. Grab some food at the public market’s wonderful eateries and enjoy the show upstairs. Second Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. $10. my805tix. com/e/improv-comedy-1-10. SLO Public
Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo.
DEANNA BARAHONA California artist
Deanna Barahona’s work centers her lived experiences, identity, and personal objects in intimate and domestic spaces through the creation of sculpture, and installation.
Through Aug. 31, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/deannabarahona/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. (805) 5438562. sloma.org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
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.
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.
NORTH COUNTY CAMERA CLUB: REGULAR MEETING Zoom meeting for The North County Camera Club, where photographers of all levels can participate, share photos, exchange
information, and learn from each other. Second Tuesday of every month, 7-9 p.m. No fee. facebook.com/groups/ PRAAphotoguild. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden. Second Saturday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $75 per picket or 2 for $100. (805) 541-1400. slobg. org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN MIC NIGHT Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 5482337, libertinebrewing.com.
SLO NIGHTWRITERS: A COMMUNITY OF WRITERS SLO NightWriters supports local writers with monthly presentations, critique groups, contests, and other events. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. slonightwriters.org. United Church of Christ (Congregational) of San Luis Obispo, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo.
SLO REP’S ACADEMY OF CREATIVE THEATRE SUMMER CAMPS Registration is open for the summer theatre camps at SLO REP. They are week-long camps for ages five to 18. Scholarships are available. Mondays. through Aug. 4 $230. (805) 7813889. slorep.org/education/act-theatrecamps/. San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre, 3533 Empleo St., San Luis Obispo. SOMETHING’S FISHY FLORAL WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM In this workshop, you will receive step-by-step instruction for creating a beautifully detailed collage. Beginners are welcome and no experience is necessary. July 12 12-4 p.m. $45. (805) 478-2158. i0.wp. com/artcentralslo.com/wp-content/ uploads/2025/05/Somethings-Fishy-
PHOTO COURTESY OF CIRCUS VARGAS
Floral-July.jpg?fit=1275%2C1650&ssl=1.
Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
TRISH ANDERSEN Combining fibers gathered from field, sheep, and those developed in a factory, Andersen proves that there is always room for both the vibrant and muted. Through Sept. 14, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma. org/exhibition/trish-andersen/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
TURNSTILE: NEVER ENOUGH FILM
SCREENING Experience this 14-song visual album, directed by Brendan Yates and Pat McCrory. Tickets and more info can be found via the link. July 3 , 8 p.m. $20. fremontslo.com. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-8600.
WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO SHOW On display now through mid-April. ongoing slogallery.com/. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
YOUTH POTTERY CLASS Teens love this class. Learn handbuilding techniques and throwing on the potter’s wheel. Held every Friday after school. Fridays, 3:30-5 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE
FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
HOW THE WEST WAS REALLY WON Complete with a saloon setting, card games, duels, and more. Through Aug. 12 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
SECOND SATURDAY IMPROV MEETUP
Have you ever wanted to try improv? Or are you an experienced player looking for opportunities to practice? Join to play short-form games and share smiles in the supportive environment of improv. Second Saturday of every month, 2-4 p.m. through Dec. 13 improvforgood.fun/. Flex Performing Arts Studio (Studio D), 1820 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
SHREK THE MUSICAL Join for Shrek the Musical — a hilarious, heartwarming adventure with catchy songs, lively choreography, and a talented cast. Fun, friendship, and fairy tale magic await! July 10, 7-9 p.m., July 11 7-9 p.m. and July 12 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. $17-$28.50. (805) 4899444. 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
4TH OF JULY FREEDOM TO GROW SALE
Join for the 4th of July Freedom to Grow Sale at Cambria Nursery. More info can be found at the link. July 3 9 a.m.-5 p.m., July 4 , 9 a.m.-5 p.m., July 5 , 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and July 6 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 927-4747. cambrianursery.com/events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.
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.
CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS
Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, (805) 772-2840, sttimothymorrobay.org/index.html.
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.
FRIENDS OF THE CAYUCOS LIBRARY USED BOOK SALE Search the tables for great books, CDs, puzzles, and more! Most items are available for $1-$2. Discount shopping begins at noon. July 5 , 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (805) 995-3312. Cayucos Library, 310 B. St., Cayucos.
JULY 4TH IN CAYUCOS From the town parade featuring festive floats to the Front Street Faire and sand sculpture contest, to the spectacular fireworks show from the pier, this Independence Day celebration shouldn’t be missed. July 4 cayucoschamber.com/july4th. Cayucos Pier, Ocean Front Ave., Cayucos.
LEARN TO SAIL AT MORRO BAY YACHT CLUB Learn to sail at the Morro Bay’s
only sailing school, with the goal of getting comfortable commanding your own sailboat. There will be a focus on teamwork, developing leadership skills, and having fun. Register at the link. Through Aug. 3 $450. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Yacht Club, 541 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, (805) 772-3981.
MAIDEN TO CRONE SISTER CIRCLE
Connect deeply with other women. Sharing the things that are close to our hearts creates a space of shared vulnerability that leads to deep connection. First Sunday of every month, 9-11 a.m. my805tix.com. From the Roots Up Healing Studio, 2055 9th St., Los Osos.
MEDITATE WITH DAWN Take this semi-private class to restore your energy and calm the mind to balance your day with guided meditation, pranayama (breath-work), and chakra connection on the beach. The meditation will be guided by Dawn Feuerberg, a certified classical ashtanga yoga, mindfulness life coach, tantra meditation instructor, and Aurora Adventures, LLC founder. July 6 10-11:15 a.m. $49. my805tix.com. Aurora Sacred Events, 21 24th St, Cayucos.
MINDFUL MARKET Join for a day of connection, inspiration, and high vibes at the Mindful Market in Los Osos. This family-friendly gathering will feature conscious vendors and healing practitioners, and foster a space for a celebration of wellness, creativity, and heart-centered living. Get more info and RSVP at the link. July 12 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. 2050 9th St, 2050 9th St, Los Osos.
MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS
DISCUSSION GROUP A group of metaphysically minded individuals that have been meeting for many years now in the Coalesce Chapel. Club offers a supportive metaphysical based community. Members discuss a different topic each week. All are welcome to join. Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10-$15. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.
OPEN FLOW: DANCE AND MOVEMENT
A community of movers and shakers who come together to express themselves through dance and movement. Inspired by a variety of conscious movement modalities, Open Flow is led by Silvia Suarez and Matt Garrity, embodiment teachers who share a passion for integration through movement exploration. Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. $10 (general), $5 (ages 55 and older). SilviaAthaSomatics.org. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278.
POST 4TH OF JULY CLEANUP Join the Estuary Program for our annual post-4th of July cleanup in Morro Bay! For more information, visit the link. July 5 10 a.m.-noon Free. eventbrite.com/e/july5th-cleanup-tickets-1393082109089?aff= oddtdtcreator. Centennial Parkway, Front Street, Morro Bay, N/A.
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
MUSIC FOR THE FOURTH
Spend your Independence Day at the Atascadero Fourth of July Music Festival, scheduled from 3 to 8 p.m. at Atascadero Lake Park. Listen to live music from groups such as the Hot Buttered Rum, the Doohickeys (pictured), and Jordan Bush & The Packrats, and enjoy food from local vendors, wine tasting, and craft beer. Tickets are $25 pre-sale and $30 at the door. More information can be found at atascadero4thofjuly.org, and tickets can be purchased at my805tix.com.
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.
SPECIAL MOVIE SCREENING: THELMA & LOUISE South Bay Women’s Network is presenting a special screening of Thelma & Louise at the Bay Theater in Morro Bay. The film, a 1991 American crime drama, follows two friends, Thelma Dickinson and Louise Sawyer, as they set out on a weekend trip to a fishing cabin in the mountains to escape their dull routines. Ticket sales will support the SBWN Cuesta College Female Re-entry Student Scholarship Fund. Get more info at the link. July 7, 5 p.m. $18. my805tix.com. Bay Theatre, 464 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.
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 anti-aging 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 AND QI GONG: ZEN IN MOTION
Small group classes with 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the Year. Call for time and days. Learn the Shaolin Water Style and 5 Animals Qi Gong. Beginners welcomed. Mondays, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call for price details. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts. com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.
WATERFRONT MARKET MORRO BAY
4TH OF JULY WEEKEND EVENT Enjoy the three-day holiday weekend and show your favorite Central Coast local vendor some love. There will be over 30 vendors throughout the market. July 4 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m., July 5 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and July 6 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (805) 402-9437. Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay.
WEEKLY QIGONG PRACTICE AT
FITNESSWORKS MORRO BAY Calm your mind and nourish your joints with a weekly Qigong practice led by Mike Raynor of Tai Chi Rejuvenation. The practice is rooted in Qigong fundamentals, and standing/moving meditations. Forms include: Eight Brocades, Five Elements, Shibashi 18, and Tai chi 24. Saturdays, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Members free; non-members $8-$10. (805) 772-7466. fitnessworksmb.com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
ATASCADERO 4TH OF JULY MUSIC
FESTIVAL Celebrate Independence Day lakeside under giant shady oaks with two musical acts during an afternoon
of music, food, and drinks. Music starts at 4 p.m., with sets from Hot Buttered Rum, Jordan Bush & The Packrats, and The Doohickeys. July 4 3-8 p.m. $28. atascadero4thofjuly.org/. Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero. 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. BLOOM TO BOTTLE: A LAVENDER DISTILLATION WORKSHOP AT HAMBLY FARMS Start your morning in the lavender fields, harvesting fragrant blooms and end the class bottling your own small batch of handcrafted essential oil and hydrosol—then craft a calming lavender foot soak using your freshly made oil. July 5 , 9 a.m.-noon $75. my805tix.com. Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel.
CREATION OF THE MANJUSHRI (WISDOM) BUDDHA SAND MANDALA
Experience the sacred creation of a Manjushri Buddha Sand Mandala by Tibetan monks, with daily chanting, art, and a beautiful closing ceremony and procession. July 13 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 391-4465. awakeningways.org. Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living, 7350 El Camino Real, Ste. 101, 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.
PASO ROBLES’ 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION The celebration is hosted by the city of Paso Robles and Travel Paso, and includes fireworks, live music, and activities for all ages. July 4 travelpaso.com/events/annual-eventsand-festivals/4th-of-july-in-paso/. Barney Schwartz Park, 2970 Union Road, Paso Robles.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 17
PHOTO COURTESY OF ATASCADERO PRINTERY FOUNDATION
SUMMER CAMP SESSIONS This summer sports camp is geared towards kiddos ages 7 to 12. There will be tennis, pickleball, swimming, and more!
Discounted rates are available, please see flyer for pricing variations. MondaysThursdays, 9 a.m.-noon and MondaysFridays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through July 11 (805) 434-9605. ttrtennis.com/tennis/ kids-camps/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.
TEMPLETON RECREATION CONCERTS
IN THE PARK Enjoy 10 weeks of free, live music at Templeton Park this summer— ranging from rock, country, reggae, and pop. Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m. through Aug. 20 Free. (805) 434-4909. Templeton Park, 550 Crocker St., Templeton.
TENNIS ACCELERATOR CAMP FOR
KIDS Hone your kid’s tennis skills with this intensive five-day accelerator camp! There will be games to improve racquet skills and an optional swim component available 1 to 3 p.m. July 7-11, 9-3 a.m. Please see flyer for pricing variations. (805) 434-9605. ttrtennis.com/tennis/ kids-camps/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, 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.
VINYASA YOGA FLOW The class prioritizes increasing mental acuity and improving body and muscle flexibility. A restorative and gentle yoga focusing on breathing and targeting specific areas of the body. Please call to register in advance. Sundays, 12-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $16-$22; $50 membership. (805) 434-9605. ttrtennis. com/yoga. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.
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, 9:30-11:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo.
CIRCUS VARGAS PRESENTS
“HOLLYWOOD DREAMS” AN HOMAGE TO TINSELTOWN’S GOLDEN AGE! See Circus Vargas’ “Hollywood Dreams!” an homage to Tinseltown’s Golden Age! This circus celebration is inspired by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s hay day. Experience the magic and get tickets and more info at the link. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays. through July 14 $25 - $85. circusvargas.com. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
CITY FARM SLO’S YOUTH
EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM Check site for more info on programming and summer camps. ongoing cityfarmslo.org.
San Luis Obispo, Citywide, SLO.
DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) 280-5800. margotschaal.com/ qigong. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour
San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and about the development of this area. Tours, led by docents, are free at 1:15 p.m Monday through Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Sundays, 2-2:30 p.m., MondaysSaturdays, 1:15-2:15 p.m. and Thursdays-
Saturdays, 11 a.m. through Sept. 1 Free. (657) 465-9182. missionsanluisobispo. org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
LET THERE BE LESBIANS PRESENTS:
THE GAY AWAKENING Gay Awakening is about “honoring the moments that helped us realize who we are, the movie scenes, music videos, late-night confessions, and quiet truths that shaped our queer identities.” You can expect a cocktail hour, queer DJs, drinks, and a sea of queers. Get additional details at the link. July 5 , 7 p.m.-midnight $30. slobrew. com. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.
MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE Stretch into yourself under the beautiful oaks and fresh air of this idyllic country setting. Suitable for all levels, these classes emphasize the gentler side of yoga and adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for five-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Tiber Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, San Luis Obispo.
PARKOUR CLINIC Parkour offers a path to social confidence. Come flip with flair in a safe, nurturing environment at our Parkour Clinic. The clinic is geared towards children 7 to 17 years, and all levels are welcome. July 12 , 1-3 p.m. $25/ 1st child, +$10 per additional sibling.. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo. com/saturday-event-clinics. 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.
SLO SKIERS MONTHLY MEETING SLO Skiers holds its monthly meeting for adults. A social hour will begin at 5:30 pm, with food and drink, followed by the meeting. July 8 , 6:30 p.m. Free. Annual membership $65.. (805) 528-3194. sloskiers.org. Milestone Tavern, 972 Foothill Blvd., San Luis Obispo.
SLO WILD CAMP - CREEK LANDS CONSERVATION Creek Lands Conservation’s SLO Wild Camp program welcomes Central Coast youth to get outside and connect with our home watersheds. Kids will learn through lenses of nature connection, western science, traditional ecological knowledge, holistic land stewardship, and our own curiosities. This camp is open to children ages 12 to 14. July 7-18 $550. my805tix.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SLOCA ADVENTURE CAMP AND FUN IN THE SUN Join these off-site adventures to explore nature and the various geographical landscapes. This is for 1st-6th graders. July 7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $475. (805) 458-8700. sloclassical.org. SLO Classical Academy, 165 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.
SLOCA PRESCHOOL AND KINDER SUMMER CAMPS This is a six-week summer camp for those going into preschool and kindergarten. Get tickets and more info at the link. July 7, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $270-450. (805) 548-8700. sloclassical.org. SLO Classical Academy, 165 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.
TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 540-6576. t-mha.org. Hope House
Send event information to events@newtimesslo.com or
Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN
CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Second Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.
TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP
This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated emotional support group to be heard, share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like your own. Second Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
AVILA BEACH 4TH OF JULY DOGGIE
PARADE Spend your 4th of July afternoon at the doggie parade and costume contest. Visit the site to register your dog into the parade and get more info. July 4 , 11 a.m.-noon $8. (805) 627-1997. avilabeachcc.com. Avila Beach Promenade, 404 Front St., Avila 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.
COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY
Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks including pathways maintenance, litter patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, irrigation system expansion/repairs, pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, and tools related to the above activities. First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 710-3073. Nipomo Native Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo.
DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing (805) 619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
FIND WALDO LOCAL IN ARROYO GRANDE Staring July 1, join the hunt to find Waldo in local businesses in Arroyo Grande. To participate, pick up a stamp card from Monarch Books. The first 125 seekers who get 10 stamps can return to Monarch Books for a Waldo sticker and a coupon. Seekers who collect 20 or more stamps will have the opportunity to enter a grand-prize drawing. Through July 31, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. (805) 668-6300. monarchbooks805.com. Monarch Books, 201 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande.
FRIENDS OF THE NIPOMO LIBRARY BOOK SALE Arrive early in the morning
Giavanni’s Comedy Night
12 Giavanni’s Pizza, Santa Maria
Bobby Joe Ebola & The Children Macnuggits
Hot Buttered Rum with
Doohickeys
Strauss Ranch, Agoura Hills
Lake Park, SLO
nonfiction, and children’s books, along with jigsaw puzzles and CDs/DVDs. Cash only. July 12 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (805) 929-3994. friendsofnipomolibrary.org/. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.
JULY 4TH
CELEBRATION AND FIREWORKS DISPLAY The fireworks will be launched off the Pismo Pier for all to enjoy. July 4 9 p.m. pismobeach. org/1013/Fourth-of-July. Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, 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 dropin; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS
A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.
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.
SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. (805) 904-6615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.
WILD ABOUT WEATHER: LITTLE RANGER PROGRAM Join us to learn sun, trail, ocean, and camping safety, as well as how to get help, so you can explore like a real Ranger. This is geared towards ages 3 to 6 years old. RSVP over the phone. July 5 3-4 p.m. Free. (805) 474-2664. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
ALISAL RANCH 4TH OF JULY
CELEBRATION Celebrate July 4th at Alisal Ranch with BBQ, live music, golf course views, and fireworks. Open to the public. July 4 4-8 p.m. $45-$65. (805) 688-7784. Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, 1054 Alisal Rd., Solvang.
SOLVANG JULY 4TH PARADE AND FIREWORKS Solvang Rotary’s annual July 4th Parade returns to downtown Solvang, followed by Santa Ynez Valley Rotary’s Festival and Fireworks at Old Mission Santa Ines. July 4, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Parade is free to spectate; festival is ticketed. (805) 465-7298. solvangusa.com/solvangevents-calendar. Old Mission Santa Ines, 1760 Mission Drive, Solvang.
FOOD & DRINK
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
CUTRUZZOLA WINEMAKER’S DINNER
Enjoy the panoramic ocean views and feast on a decadent four-course menu
STARS, STRIPES, AND SIPS
Celebrate the Fourth with Alisal Ranch in Solvang during its Fourth of July festivities. From 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, July 4, enjoy a dinner buffet with live music, views of the sweeping golf course, and a fireworks show to round out the night. Tickets are $65 for adults and $45 for children. Head to alisalranch. com for additional information.
from Chef’s Jaime Macias and Fernando Cuevas. Each course is paired with signature Cutruzzola wines. More info is available at the link. July 12 , 6-9 p.m. $135. my805tix.com. Cavalier Oceanfront Resort, Cove Room, Cavalier Plaza, 250 San Simeon Ave., San Simeon.
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
BRUNCH IS BACK Celebrate the second Sunday of the month with brunch. Enjoy a two-hour cruise on the waterfront. Features fresh coffee, pastries, and more. Second Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $50. (805) 772-2128. chabliscruises.com. Chablis Cruises, 1205 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.
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.
LOW COUNTRY SEAFOOD BOIL Join Chef Emilie Goldstein and MCV Wines for a “claw-crackin’ low country seafood boil.” Taste local wines, and enjoy a succulent seafood feast! July 13 , 4 p.m. $125. my805tix.com. JonnyBoy’s Bagelry, 5935 Entrada Ave, Atascadero.
SIP HAPPENS BY THE POND Enjoy a walkaround tasting from nine wineries, along with a BBQ and live music. July 12 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $100. (805) 468-7877. exploretock.com. TRUSS Wines, 870 Arbor Road, 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
CHAMISAL VINEYARDS Travel and Leisure named our Lobsterfest as a must-see event with music, beautiful scenery, and delicious food and wine. See for yourself and purchase tickets now. July 11 6-8:30 p.m. and July 12 6-8:30 p.m. $295. chamisalvineyards. com/events/lobsterfest-july-2025/. Chamisal Vineyards, 7767 Orcutt Rd, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-9463.
DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.
NAME THAT NOISE: MUSIC TRIVIA A monthly special music-only trivia at Oak and Otter Brewing Co. Call ahead to reserve a table. Second Thursday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-2529.
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.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY AVILA BEACH 4TH OF JULY PANCAKE BREAKFAST Enjoy a pancake breakfast prepared by members of the Board of Directors of the Avila Beach Civic Association and volunteers. Get tickets and more info to this morning celebration at the link. July 4 8:30-10 a.m. $13. my805tix.com. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach.
MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES Join to expand your knowledge of the fermentation process and get started fermenting at home. We alternate between demonstration and hands-on classes. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30-$50. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. New topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home. Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 8016627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.
TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and nonalcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. (805) 295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach. ∆
—A.S.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALISAL RANCH
WELCOME
SHEILA
FLO RIDA
JULY 16 JON PARDI
CODY JOHNSON
JULY 19
DAVID LEE ROTH
JULY 22
DON FELDER
JULY 25
JULY 17 311 W/IRATION
JULY 18
JUNTOS
JULY 20 RED CLAY STRAYS
JULY 21
BAILEY ZIMMERMAN
JULY 23
KEITH URBAN
JULY 24 COUNTRY RODEO FINALS
JULY 26 MONSTER TRUCK MADNESS
JULY 27
CMSF PAGEANT
July 16 @ 6PM
LOS CAMPEROS
July 19
July 22
July 17
MASON RAMSEY
July 20
DOCKSIDERS
July 23
July 25
HERMAN’S HERMITS W/PETER NOONE
July 18
July 21
July 24
July 26
July 27
BLACK VIOLIN
REGULO CARO
WAYLON WYATT
JORDAN FELIZ
MARIACHI
KYLIE MORGAN
STEPHEN PEARCY
MISS
TAYLOR SHINES LASER
Arts
Three artists, three mediums this July at Marina Square
Morro Bay’s Gallery at Marina Square—located at 601 Embarcadero, suite 10, and open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.—has announced its July featured artists: photographer Gregory Siragusa, oil painter Patricia Newton, and jewelry and small works artist Hope Myers. All three will be in attendance during an artists’ reception on Saturday, July 12, from 3 to 5 p.m., and all three’s work will be featured during the entire month.
Siragusa’s photos are featured in the Upper Gallery. In his artist’s statement, he noted, “Photography is an opportunity to marvel at all the beauty in the world. Birds, sunsets, mountains, oceans, each offers a journey into the sublime. The overwhelming beauty of the world provides us with infinite opportunity to discover, to experience, and to truly live. Ultimately however, a pursuit of perfection and beauty is superfluous if done without humility, reverence, and an appreciation for gentleness. Good photography is not a place, it is a state of mind, a feeling, a vibe with daily practice. Wandering the world, with a camera, family or friends, whether near or far, is an opportunity to capture and appreciate the glory of existence. We are all here for a brief moment, we should all take the time to appreciate and surround ourselves with the marvelous.”
Newton’s paintings hang in the Lower Gallery. “I knew early on, that art would somehow become an intrinsic part of my life! Although a career path would lead me in a different direction, I worked hard, painted when time permitted, and raised a family. I moved to the Central Coast of California, where I fell in love with rolling hills that reach to the sea and began to pursue lifelong dreams of becoming a professional artist. The local landscape has had a profound impact on the artwork I create in oil. My style is representational, utilizing a glazing technique of many thin layers to create a translucent effect that provides depth and emanates light from my paintings. My current body of work has been inspired by the powerful movement of the sea and magnificent coastline. During the last 35 years, I’ve become an award winning artist, a member of The Portrait Society of America and Oil Painters of America.”
You’ll find Myers’ pieces in the Craft Atelier Space for the month. She’s an award-winning transparent watercolorist who also makes one-of-a-kind jewelry in her “An Artist’s Garden” studio in Los Osos. She’s been creating artwork on the Central Coast for more than 30 years. ∆
—Glen Starkey
BY GLEN STARKEY
Home is where the heart is
Local
artist Ellen
November will capture your house in fabric and thread
Our homes represent so much to us—family, stability, security, sanctuary. We probably all remember our childhood home. Now, local fabric artist Ellen November o ers a way to memorialize your home with its portrait in fabric, ber, and thread. e goal is to create an artwork that brings peaceful feelings about your special place.
Immortalize your abode
In between her many other ongoing fabric art series, San Luis Obispo resident Ellen November is accepting commissions for home portraits created with fabric and thread. She works with clients to incorporate what’s important to them. Visit her website at ellennovember. com, email her at ellen.november@gmail.com or call (301) 383-6912.
ough she’s created many various series of work, she says there’s something especially rewarding about creating home portraits for people.
“I enjoy it so much,” November said over co ee. “A dear friend of mine lost her home in the Palisades Fire, and they have really nice photos of the house. So I got her permission [to create her home’s portrait] because it’s such a delicate situation.”
Her friend’s home and the entire neighborhood burned to the ground. ere was nothing left. e re was devastating, but creating the portrait proved cathartic for both the artist and recipient.
“It was the most enjoyable project I’ve ever done,” November said. “Ful lling. Because it was for a friend. It was giving her something nobody else could.”
She’s done several other home portraits, and each one comes with a story.
“Another one I did was in Shaker Heights, Ohio, near Cleveland,” she explained. “My aunt and uncle lived across from this family, and they were selling their house, retiring. ey’re older, in their 80s, and they’d lived there 50 years. And so, she asked me [if] would I do one for them. I really enjoy the personalization of the art, the meaningfulness. And that’s what gives me the most ful llment.
“I did a lovely piece for a local couple here in SLO, who built their home, and their long-lived pet had just passed away during the process of making a piece, and I asked them, ‘Do you want to still incorporate,’ I think her name was Molly, ‘into the piece?’ And they said, ‘Oh, absolutely.’ So Molly’s standing at attention on the side, keeping watch over the house, and they just love it.”
Many of the home portraits she creates include a front view of the house as well as an aerial view and the home’s location on a map.
Including the cartography stemmed from another ongoing series she calls omas Guides, the formerly ubiquitous paperback, spiralbound, detailed map books of various large metropolitan areas.
November, formerly a 45year resident of Los Angeles before relocating to SLO nine years ago, knows the omas Guide well.
“It used to be in LA, nobody would leave their driveway without one, right? So, I was doing a lot of photography. I lived in a very beautiful area in LA called Palos Verdes on the ocean. And I’ve always been interested in maps, cartography. ey’re very graphic—a graphic element.
“So, I wanted to combine the photos with the map,” she continued, “and so I started not knowing what I was doing, but then I learned of this woman, Valerie Goodwin, who is an architect, quilter, and architecture professor. She wrote a book [Art Quilt Maps: Capture a Sense of Place with Fiber Collage—A Visual Guide] about combining quilts with maps. And so, I got a chance to study with her in Tahoe for a week, and that was the springboard into having an aerial view, a face-on view, scaling, layering.”
November discovered that the now obsolete omas Guides—thanks, GPS—were easy to come by.
“I was going to these estate sales and buying the omas Guide for a buck, and so I got the idea to start in the upper quadrant in LA County, in Malibu, and work my way down. And I did. And so, each piece represented that map. And from there, I just went into di erent areas. I just really enjoy it.”
Another ongoing series November has been creating is a series of LA landmarks such as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House, Gri th Park Observatory, Angels Flight, the LA skyline, Grauman’s Chinese eatre, and others.
Her current work, including the home portraits, encapsulates and combines all her creative skills and endeavors.
“I got a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in illustration at Arts Center in LA,” she noted, “and I was always interested in photography, but I started sewing at age 10. And I got to a point in my life where I wanted to combine my sewing with my art.”
Working from photos supplied by the client guarantees that every portrait is one-of-a-kind. She can even incorporate a favorite tree, ower, or pet. She uses an inkjet printer to transfer a photo onto fabric. She sources her materials from various places.
“I give myself a lot of [artistic] license. I was using upcycled men’s shirts I’d get a Goodwill, with very high-level cotton, for background. I create my layout, with scaling, and then I create a pattern
out of tissue, and then I cut the pieces out, and then with the tissue overlay, I sew. It’s a matter of layering. I had a friend who’s an art director ask me, ‘You plan the whole thing out ahead of time, right?’ And I said, ‘No,’ and he couldn’t understand that. Because it can change.”
Like a jazz musician, November’s creative process leaves room for improvisation. She knows where the song starts and ends, and what the basic melody is, but how she gets there is driven by the serendipity of creation. It takes November about a month to complete a home portrait because she works on multiple pieces at once.
“I did a portrait of my home that I lived in for 32 years, and I would never sell that. at is so meaningful to me, just looking at it. It just reminds me of all the good experiences we had there, how beautiful it was. Also, I’ll tell you, I’ve been here nine years. ere’s a part of me that’s still a little homesick. Not for the congestion of LA, but because everything was so familiar.” ∆
Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.
FOLLOW THE THREAD San Luis Obispobased fabric artist Ellen November is accepting commissions for one-of-a-kind home portraits created in fabric, fiber, and thread.
PHOTO
SHAKER HEIGHTS When her aunt and uncle’s neighbors sold their longtime home, they commissioned November to create a home portrait to remember it by.
PACIFIC PALISADES Made for a friend who lost her home in the Pacific Palisades fire, this piece opened the door to more home portraits.
Redemption road
JF1 THE MOVIE
oseph Kosinski (Tron: Legacy, Oblivion, Only the Brave, Maverick: Top Gun) directs this story he co-wrote with Ehren Kruger (Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Ghost in the Shell, Dumbo, Top Gun: Maverick) about former Formula One driver
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 Oaks, Park, Stadium 10
Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), who teams ups with promising younger driver Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris). (155 min.)
Glen I’m disinterested in car racing, but I love a race movie because they’re always about big personalities—dreamers, extremists, rebels. Pitt is in full movie star mode as Sonny Hayes. ink Paul Newman, Robert Redford, and Steve McQueen rolled into one swaggering but deeply awed badass. Sonny’s an itinerant driver, sort of a hired gun living out of his van and going from one race to the next. ree decades earlier, he raced Formula One and was a promising upstart whose career ended with a crash and serious injury. Now his old racing partner, Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem), who has a stake in the APXGP F1 team that’s currently in last place and short a driver, convinces him to give F1 another shot. Under Kosinski’s kinetic direction, Sonny’s story is riveting. I loved it.
Anna I’m always surprised at how captivating race movies can be. e premise never grips me, but the right lmmaker and enough human drama to carry a storyline can really pull me in. Sonny is a no-nonsense guy, not out for money but just trying to get by doing what he’s always done—win races. But even he can’t resist the call from his past and one last chance at winning that F1 title. Unfortunately for Sonny, the sport is inextricably tied to sponsorships and press conferences and far too many egos in every
THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND
What’s it rated? PG-13
When? 2025
Where’s it showing? Peacock
This film is charming from start to finish and full of fun, earnest, and quirky characters.
Charles (Tim Key) can think of no better way to spend some of his lottery winnings than to have his favorite musicians brought to the island for a reunion show.
Herb (Tom Badsen) is an overly serious and melancholy musician who’s transitioned from folk
corner. One of those egos is the other driver for his team, Joshua Pearse (aka JP), whose hunger to come up in the sport and retain his sponsorship has him seeing red once Sonny arrives. What we soon learn is that Sonny is just as much about strategy as he is about winning, and sometimes that means sacri cing for the team overall. Pitt has been wanting to make a race movie for years, and his devotion to it is evident on-screen. Sure, this movie may be about racing, but it’s also about the people behind it, the ones who spend their lives chasing a tenth of a second. Glen One of those people is Kate McKenna (Kerry Condon), a female design engineer in a male-dominated sport. Like Sonny, she’s got something to prove. Sonny wants her to upgrade the car so he and JP can “battle in the turns” with cars that are faster on the straightaway. Kate at rst doesn’t respect
to commercial pop, and he’s surprised to learn that Charles has also invited Nell (Carey Mulligan), his ex and the other half of their past folk duo, McGwyer Mortimer. Nell has moved on with her life after Herb, bringing along her partner, Michael (Akemnji Ndifornyen), to the gig. When we learn that Charles may have exaggerated the expected audience size and will be the only one attending, we start to understand the story behind this seemingly wild stunt he’s put into play. Charles’ wife has been dead for five years, and this concert may just be his way of reaching out to the universe to say, “I’m still with you, and you’re still with me” to his lost love. Funny and darling, this will leave you with a case of the warm fuzzies. It’s definitely worth a watch. (99 min.)
—Anna
DEEP COVER
What’s it rated? R
When? 2025
Sonny and points out that he’s not a “has been,” he’s a “never was.” Ouch! Sonny gets berated a lot, by JP’s mother Bernadette (Sarah Niles), by the press, even by Jodie (Callie Cooke), a pit crew tire gunner he stands up for after she makes a costly error. Sonny doesn’t defend himself, doesn’t de ect, and doesn’t argue. He takes criticism stoically because he follows a code. He’s a quiet hero who lives by his rules, and that makes him irresistible.
Anna Pitt perfectly embodies the nononsense nature of the character that he built. You can’t help but like Sonny, even when he’s being a jerk. is is a big screen delight, so buckle up—it’s a long journey but well worth it. ∆
Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Split Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
Where’s it showing? Amazon Prime
Tom Kingsley (Black Pond, The Darkest Universe) directs this British comedy about unsuccessful improv comedy actors Kat (Bryce Dallas Howard), Marlon (Orlando Bloom), and Hugh (Nick Mohammed), who’re recruited by Det. Sgt. Graham Billings (Sean Bean) to buy counterfeit cigarettes from a nearby vendor, but their assignment grows after they improvise their way up the criminal enterprise with a drug deal, quickly putting them in real danger.
The three leads are terrific. Bloom is especially funny as a wannabe method actor who always takes his character a step too far. Howard is the improv teacher who wonders why her career failed to launch. Mohammed is endearing as an IT worker who’s trying to gain confidence and be more liked and accepted at work. There’s also a lot of terrific co-stars in this ensemble cast, including Paddy Considine as Fly, a mid-level criminal who’s impressed with Kat’s quick thinking; Ian McShane as a ruthless criminal kingpin; and Sonoya Mizuno as Shosh, a seasoned killer who takes a shine to Hugh. If you’ve ever done improv, the rule is to agree with your improv partner and add on, “Yes, and,” and in this freewheeling comedy, that leads straight to funny town. (99 min.) ∆ —Glen
FAST COMPANY Former Formula One driver Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt, right) comes out of retirement to mentor and team up with cocky younger driver Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), in F1 The Movie, screening in local theaters.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WARNER
YES, AND … Three struggling improv comics—Marlon (Orlando Bloom), Kat (Bryce Dallas Howard), and Hugh (Nick Mohammed)— are recruited by police to buy contraband but quickly find themselves in over their heads, in Deep Cover, streaming on Amazon Prime.
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMAZON PRIME VIDEO
REUNION Long estranged music duo Nell Mortimer (Carey Mulligan) and Herb McGwyer (Tom Basden) are reunited when an eccentric lottery winner living on a remote island hires them to play together again, in The Ballad of Wallis Island, streaming on Peacock.
COURTESY PHOTO BY ALISTAR HEAP/SUNDANCE INSTITUTE
BY GLEN STARKEY
Two Less Lonely People
Air Supply’s Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock have spent 50 years making music together
Ilike classic rock bands that know where their bread is buttered. When someone comes to an Air Supply concert, they don’t want to hear a minor hit like “Goodnight” off their 2003 album Across the Concrete Sky. You’re there for the hits … the monster hits!
Air Supply plays Vina Robles Amphitheatre on Saturday, July 12 (8 p.m.; all ages; $65 to $501.50 at ticketmaster.com), so I immediately looked up some of their recent set lists, and I’m happy to report you can expect to hear all their biggies: “Lost in Love,” “All Out of Love,” “Sweet Dreams,” “Even the Nights Are Better,” “Two Less Lonely People in the World,” “Every Woman in the World,” “The One That You Love,” “Here I Am (Just When I Thought I Was Over You),” and the Jim Steinman-penned “Making Love Out of Nothing At All.”
A typical set list included all those hits as well as a couple of covers, like Rob Hegel’s “Just as I Am” and Badfinger’s “Without You,” and a few songs from Air Supply’s extensive catalog. Core members Englishman Graham Russell and Australian Russell Hitchcock joined forces in 1975 after meeting in the chorus of the Australian touring company of Jesus Christ Superstar. By their estimation, they’ve played 5,560 concerts and counting. They’ve also sold more than 100 million albums worldwide. Now under musical direction of lead guitarist Aaron McLain, the Air Supply band also includes Mirko Tessandori (piano/keyboards/vocals), Pavel Valdman (drums), and Doug Gild (bass).
“I’m grateful that I’ve had an incredible life so far and find it very fulfilling that our songs mean so much to people everywhere we travel,” Graham Russell said in press materials. “It’s also been wonderful to work with and meet so many great people and to have had such a long friendship with Russell that is the envy of so many!”
Russell Hitchcock added, “We are so grateful to have a legacy that we can be proud of and that our music has meant so much to so many for this long.”
Their current tour marks their 50th anniversary as a band, and they plan to celebrate their milestone with a few new
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.
CAMBRIA TRIBUTE TO MERLE
HAGGARD & IRIS DEMENT Performers
include Zoe FitzGerald Carter, Jonathan Low-Fi, Bradly Coats, Maurice Tani, Jubal Jake, James Combs, and the duo called Familiar Strangers. Hosted by Steve Key. July 13 , 2-5 p.m. $25, $20 wine club members. (805) 204-6821. songwritersatplay.com/events.
Moonstone Cellars, 812 Cornwall St, Cambria.
projects, including a biopic titled All Out of Love: The Air Supply Story, a Broadway comedy-drama musical featuring their songs (Lost in Love), and an autobiography (yet to be titled) by the pair. The duo will also be releasing their 18th studio album, A Matter of Time, their first new studio album since 2010’s Mumbo Jumbo, along with a special vinyl compilation of remastered hits.
It’s been quite a run for this soft rock powerhouse.
Happy Birthday, ’Merica!
As a kid, Independence Day was one of my favorite holidays. I grew up in a close-knit community in Wisconsin in a neighborhood full of kids, and we’d all decorate our bikes, trikes, and wagons with red, white, and blue crepe paper. Our moms would sew us patriotic costumes, and we’d put on a parade where neighbors lined the streets and cheered us on. Our little parade ended in a park with a baseball field and grilled burgers, brats, and hot dogs. It was truly all-American. When it got dark, our parents would light sparklers for us, one in each hand, and we’d run shrieking in delight through the warm night air. In our divided times, it’s sometimes hard to find that kind of nonpartisan patriotic fun, but it’s exactly what’s on the menu at Atascadero’s Fourth of July Live Music Festival, taking place at Atascadero Lake Park this Friday, July 4 (3 to 8 p.m.; all ages; $25 plus fees presale at my805tix.com or $30 at the gate; anyone under 18 free). The event kicks off the Tent City Limits Summer Concert Series and features a stellar lineup including San Francisco-based progressive bluegrass band Hot Buttered Rum, vintage Western swing and mountain string music players Jordan Bush & The Packrats, and cheeky country duo The Doohickeys
According to organizers, “Guests will enjoy live music, local wine and beer, food vendors, and a family-friendly lakeside setting. All proceeds benefit the restoration of the historic Atascadero Printery Building. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for the perfect summer celebration.”
CLUB DV8: ‘80S PARTY 4TH OF JULY
EVE BASH! Club DV8, the SLO County ‘80s-era dance music group is set to cover select hits from the ‘80s combining guitars and synths with a solid rhythm section. Audience members can expect tracks from David Bowie, The Cars, INXS, The Cure, MJ, and many more. July 3 7:30-10:30 p.m. $5. thesirenmorrobay.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312.
KIKIMORA (FREE 4TH OF JULY PARTY) Kikimora, the 5-piece collective hailing from El Paso, Texas, is celebrated for their genre-defying fusion of funk, jazz, neosoul, and R&B. Kikimora draws inspiration from artists like Sade, Jamiroquai, and Hiatus Kaiyote, and are set to take the stage at The Siren. July 4 , 7:30-10:30 p.m. Free. thesirenmorrobay.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312.
MASON JENNINGS LIVE American folk-
pop singer-songwriter Mason Jennings will hit The Siren’s stage. Hear him live and purchase tickets at the link. July 12 , 7:30 p.m. $23-$25. thesirenmorrobay.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312.
NOT.GREENDAY (A TRIBUTE TO 35 YEARS OF GREEN DAY MUSIC!) Out of love for Greenday, four Washingtonbased friends formed the tribute band, NOT.GREENDAY. Jump back in time and hear the four decades worth of Greenday music live at The Siren. Tickets are available now. July 11 , 7:30-10:30 p.m. $18. thesirenmorrobay.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312.
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.
ROCK ODYSSEY (FREE ROCKIN’ DANCE BAND!) Arroyo Grande based band Rock Odyssey, formed in 2016, emerged from a shared love for rock music and a desire to recreate the sounds that defined a generation. Hear the group cover iconic artists from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Their mission: “to transport audiences back to a time when rock music was not just a genre, but a lifestyle.” July 5 , 7:30-10:30 p.m. Free. thesirenmorrobay.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
BURLEY THISTLES Burley Thistles is an alternative rock band known for their guitar-driven sound and memorable songs. Hear them live at Four Lanterns Winery. July 5 1-4 p.m. Four
CASS BARREL ROOM CONCERT: UNFINISHED WITH THE BEATLES
Join us for this Monthly Concert Series, where wine is available by the glass and by the bottle, along with a selection of Barrelhouse Beer and soft drinks. Head to the link for more info. July 6 4 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. Cass Winery, 7350 Linne Road, Paso Robles.
CELLAR SESSIONS AT MIDNIGHT
CELLARS Come have a rocking good time with Midnight Wine and Midnight Ride, an exceptional cover band spanning decades in their songlist. July 12 , 4-7 p.m. Free. (805) 239-8904. midnightcellars. com/events/Deja-Vu-Copy. Midnight Cellars, 2925 Anderson Road, Paso Robles.
DIRTY CELLO AT THE POUR HOUSE The band Dirty Cello is a globe-trotting group that performs blues, rock and Americana, all fronted by virtuoso cellist Rebecca Roudman. Hear them live! July 3 7-9 p.m. $12.50. (805) 296-3712. bit.ly/dirtycello_ pasoroblesjuly3. The Pour House, 525 Pine St., Paso Robles.
EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett is a singer-songwriter who blends indie folk, neo-folk, and world beat with intricate fingerstyle guitar. His unique sound stands out from the mainstream. Hear him live at Paso Robles Inn. July 4 , 6-9 p.m. Paso Robles Inn, 1103 Spring Street, Paso Robles. Singer-songwriter Easton Everett blends indie folk, neo-folk, and world beat with intricate fingerstyle guitar. Hear him live at Shale Oak Winery. July 12 1-4 p.m. Shale Oak Winery, 3235 Oakdale Rd., Paso Robles, (805) 239-4800. LIVE MUSIC continued page 26
50TH ANNIVERSARY Nederlander Concerts presents Air Supply, playing at the Vina Robles Amphitheatre on July 12
PHOTO COURTESY OF NEDERLANDER CONCERTS
AMERICANA FOR AMERICA Hot Buttered Rum headlines Atascadero’s Fourth of July Live Music Festival, at Atascadero Lake Park on July 4
PHOTO COURTESY OF PONY EXPRESS MARKETING
STARKEY continued page 28
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.
HUBBA WINES 2025 SUMMER
CONCERT SERIES Head to Hubba Wines in Tin City for live music featuring local bands every Friday evening. Wine and food available for purchase. Fridays, 5-9 p.m. through Aug. 29 $5 donation. (805) 550-8190. hubbawines.com/Events. Hubba Wines, 2929 Limestone Way, Paso Robles.
check out Keilo Smith, who performs a large variety of upbeat cover tunes from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s. July 6 , 1-4 p.m. Free. 805239804. midnightcellars. com/Visit-Us/Winery-Events. Midnight Cellars, 2925 Anderson Road, Paso Robles.
TUESDAYS IN THE PARK: FREE ATASCADERO COMMUNITY BAND
CONCERTS Enjoy these fabulous free community band concerts with different music and conductors weekly! Bring your lawn chair and snacks. Tuesdays, 7-8 p.m. through Aug. 19 Free. atascaderoband. org. Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
presentation, along with a performance of the National Anthem, two live bands, food, drinks, and more! July 4 10:30 a.m.4 p.m. Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande. org. Heritage Square Park, 201 Nelson St., Arroyo Grande.
ARROYO GRANDE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES These free concerts will begin on July 4 and run every Sunday until September 21. Sundays, 1-3 p.m. through Sept. 21 Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/events. Heritage Square Park, 201 Nelson St., Arroyo Grande.
CARBON CITY LIGHTS - LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE July 12 , 2:30-5 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
AUTHORIZED DEALER:
AUTHORIZED DEALER:
ULTREX.NET|712 FIERO LANE STE 33, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93401
ULTREX.NET|712 FIERO LANE STE 33, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93401
JAZZ ON THE PATIO WITH SUNNY WRIGHT AND JACOB ODELL Hang on the beautiful patio with Sunny Wright and Jake Odell for live jazz, blues, and soul music. July 12 6-9 p.m. Free. (805) 2269995. hotelcheval.com/pony-club-barlounge. Pony Club Bar and Lounge at The Hotel Cheval, 1021 Pine St, Paso Robles.
JEFF LIVINGSTONE BAND WITH EMILEE
MORRISON AT CLUB CAR BAR Hear soulful singer-songwriter Jeff Livingstone hit the stage with a full band, joined by local favorite Emilee Morrison. Tickets and more info about this all-ages show can be found at the link. July 11 7:3010:45 p.m. $13. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.
LIVE MUSIC AT MCPRICE MYERS
WINES WITH LYNDA TYMCHECK Lynda Tymcheck is a Paso Roblan and performs acoustic covers. Sip stunning wines in the warm summer night at our vineyard estate and listen to her perform. July 12 , 11 a.m.-7 p.m. $25 tasting fee waived with $75 purchase. (805) 237-1245. mcpricemyers.com/events/july122025. McPrice Myers Wine Company, 3525 Adelaida Rd., Paso Robles.
MUSIC AT HALTER RANCH WINERY WITH SUNNY WRIGHT AND JAKE ODELL
- JAZZ, BLUES, AND SOUL Hear jazz, blues and soul by vocalist Sunny Wright and guitarist Jake Odell, while wine tasting and eating lunch. July 6 , 12-3 p.m. Free. (805) 226-9455. halterranch.com/. Halter Ranch Vineyard, 8910 Adelaida Road, Paso Robles.
BOBBY JOE EBOLA AND THE CHILDREN MACNUGGITS, MUGSLUG, BANDWIDTH, AND NT4DB LIVE Anomaly
House is proud to present a “noisy afternoon of punk rock strangeness” with various punk and hardcore bands. Get tickets and more info to this all-ages show at the link. July 13 3 p.m. $11. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974.
BRASS MASH FIRST THURSDAY JULY
2025 Hear the iconic Brass Mash band live at Liquid Gravity. Tickets and more information is available at the link. July 3 6-10 p.m. $24. my805tix.com. Liquid Gravity Brewing Company, 675 Clarion Ct., San Luis Obispo, (805) 457-4677.
CONCERTS IN THE PLAZA: AFTER PARTY SERIES Enjoy free live music in downtown SLO every Friday, immediately following the Concerts in the Plaza. The concerts are 21+. July 11 8:30 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337.
AN EVENING WITH LEGEND ZEPPELIN Travel back in time to the ‘70s with Legend Zeppelin. Have a one-of-a-kind night and see them live. Tickets are available at the link. July 12 , 7 p.m. $27. slobrew.com. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.
KARAOKE AT SLO COUNTY’S ONLY FILIPINO CAFE Join for all day, all ages karaoke hosted at SLO County’s only brick and mortar Filipino cafe, Lumpia Bros Cafe. Enjoy karaoke, filipino dishes, acai, and coffee. Tuesdays-Saturdays-6 p.m. through Dec. 31 Free. (805) 202-8473. Lumpia Bros Cafe, 1187 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
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. THE MAGICAL MUSIC OF MOTOWN Experience the ultimate Motown tribute. This band brings the legendary hits of The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and more to the stage. July 5 , 7:30-9:30 p.m. $58.50$68.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/ shows/magical-music-of-motown/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
NOAH COLTON LIVE AT HUBBA WINES
Head to Tin City’s Hubba Wines for live music by Noah Colton. July 11 5-9 p.m. $5.00 Donation. (805) 550-8190. hubbawines.com/Events. Hubba Wines, 2929 Limestone Way, Paso Robles.
OPEN MIC FEATURES PADDY MARSH Songwriters at Play Open Mic will include Paddy Marsh, along with Bruce Tallerman, Jeff Seals, Bradly Coats, Luis Lapostol, Servet, Ray Riordan, and Jonathan Shue. To sign up, email the adress provided. July 9, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 204-6821. songwritersatplay.com/events. Blast 825 (Atascadero), 7935 San Luis Ave., Atascadero.
OPEN MIC NIGHT Hosted by The Journals 805 (John and Dylan Krause). Mondays, 9 p.m. Pine Street Saloon, 1234 Pine St., Paso Robles.
SENSORIO SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Fresh off launching a new art installation, Sensorio Paso Robles unveils its Summer Concert Series lineup, running Sundays from June 1 to October 12. Get tickets and more info at the link. July 13 , 6:3010:30 p.m. $55 - $140. (805) 226-4287. sensoriopaso.com/sensorio-celebrations. Sensorio, 4380 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles.
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.
SUNDAY
HOT 45 & RAS DANNY AT CONCERTS IN THE PLAZA Ras Danny and Hot 45 are set to play live sets at Mission Plaza. Hear them live, along with The Funk Junket during Libertine’s after party. July 11 5 p.m. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo.
MIKAELA DAVIS WITH LILY SEABIRD American musician, songwriter, and harpist, Mikaela Davis will take to the stage. Hear her live, along with Lily Seabird’s set. July 10 7 p.m. $27. slobrew. com. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.
SLO TRIBUTE TO MERLE HAGGARD & IRIS DEMENT Performers will include Will Breman, Zoe FitzGerald Carter, Jonathan Low-Fi, Bradly Coats, Maurice Tani, Jubal Jake, James Combs, and Familiar Strangers. Hosted by Steve Key. July 12 7-10 p.m. $20. (805) 2046821. songwritersatplay.com/events. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo.
SON OF A GUN: A GUNS N’ ROSES
TRIBUTE Guns N’ Roses tribute band
Son Of A Gun is fronted by Ari Kamin, lead singer of Steven Adler of Guns N’ Roses. This five-piece band, based in Los Angeles, is set to rock the seats of their Slo Brew Rock audience. July 11 7 p.m. $28. slobrew.com. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
2025 LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE
CONCERT SERIES Head to the Point San Luis Lighthouse in Avila Beach for Saturday afternoon concerts. Get tickets and more info at the link. Through Oct. 11 $28. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
4TH OF JULY SUMMER CONCERT CELEBRATION Come celebrate the 4th of July at the free Arroyo Grande Summer Concert Series! There will be a flag
PACIFIC BREEZE CONCERTS The City of Pismo Beach Recreation Division proudly presents the Pacific Breeze Concerts at Dinosaur Caves Park. Family activities and food will be for purchase. July 13 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 773-7063. pismobeach. org/73/Recreation. Dinosaur Caves Park, 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach. SLO COUNTY BAND THURSDAY NIGHT SUMMER CONCERTS Join in on the fun at these free Thursday night concerts with the Slo County Band. Bring your lawn chairs! Second Thursday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. through Sept. 11 Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/ events. Rancho Grande Park, 500 James Way, Arroyo Grande.
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS THE KILLER DUELING PIANOS AT THE STOCKYARD Enjoy a night of live performance from this comedic duo of talented pianists who are set to perform a wide range of hits, from Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, to Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga. Get tickets and more info at the link. July 12 , 6:00-9:00 p.m. $10. my805tix. com. The Stockyard, 241 S. Broadway St., Orcutt, (805) 934-3777.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG LIVERPOOL LEGENDS “THE COMPLETE BEATLES EXPERIENCE” Grammynominated and internationally-acclaimed Liverpool Legends will be at Lobero Theatre. Hear them live and get tickets at the link. July 12 7:30-9:30 p.m. $44.50$74.50. (805) 963-0761. lobero.org/ events/liverpool-legends/. lobero theater, 33 E Canon Perdido St,, santa babara.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
THE STORYTELLERS The Storytellers is a prominent progressive bluegrass band that has established itself as a creative force in the Southern California Roots Music scene. Hear them live at the Solvang Festival Theater. July 13 , 3-5 p.m. $37. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest. org/show-listing. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang. ∆
Female house spirit
Are you a good kikimora or a bad kikimora? The good news is neo-soul, jazz, and funk act Kikimora, hailing from El Paso, Texas, is good. Very good. It could go either way. According to Wikipedia, a kikimora is a legendary creature, a female house spirit in Slavic mythology, that can be either good or bad. The choice of name evokes an air of mystery—perfect for Kikimora’s musically complex sound.
This quintet lists artists such as Sade, Jamiroquai, and Hiatus Kaiyote as inspiration, and the members are monster players. If you’re into masterful musicianship delivering intricate rhythms and soulful melodies, you’ll want to see them live when they play The Siren on Friday, July 4 (7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; free).
Also this week in The Siren, see Rock Odyssey on Saturday, July 5 (7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; free). Formed in 2016, the band consists of all locals from the Central Coast who have a “shared love for rock music and a desire to re-create the sounds that defined a generation,” according to their bio. “With a dynamic blend of energy and nostalgia, Rock Odyssey brings to life the timeless hits of the classic rock genre, covering iconic artists from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Our mission is to transport audiences back to a time when rock music was not just a genre, but a lifestyle.”
Feel the pride
It’s Pride Month, woohoo, and Rod & Hammer Rock is getting into the spirit when Let There Be Lesbians Presents: The Gay Awakening on Saturday, July 5 (doors at 7 p.m.; 21-and-older; $29.27 at ticketweb.com).
“After being forced to close Bang the Drum’s Laurel Lane location in May, we’re throwing our first party in a new space and are excited to team up with The Rock,” Bang the Drum owner Noelle Dubois and General Manager Kimberly Hancock announced.
“Gay Awakening is about honoring the moments that helped us realize who we are, the movie scenes, music videos, late-night confessions, and quiet truths that shaped our queer identities. We didn’t always see ourselves in the world around us; now we get to be the representation. This Pride, we’re not just celebrating visibility, we’re celebrating the joy, power, and stories that brought us here.”
Also this week in Rod & Hammer, Mikaela Davis plays on Thursday, July 10 (doors at 7 p.m.; 18-and-older; $27.21 at ticketweb.com), with Lily Seabird opening. Davis, a vocalist and harpist trained in classical music, now creates genre-bending music that explores alt-country twang, ’60s and ’70s psychedelic rock sounds, and beyond. Her band includes drummer Alex Coté, guitarist Cian McCarthy, and bassist Shane McCarthy, as well as steel guitarist Kurt Johnson.
Visual album
Numbskull and Good Medicine present Turnstile: Never Enough, a 14-song “visual album” screening in the Fremont Theater on Thursday, July 3 (doors at 8 with the film at 9 p.m.; all ages; $20.57 at prekindle.com), directed by Brendan Yates and Pat McCrory. I have no idea what to expect, but apparently the film follows Baltimore hardcore rock band, Turnstile, “as they search for meaning in the vastness between tranquility and chaos,” according to press materials. “Turnstile: Never Enough is a 14song visual album, and a journey into the heart of their sound.” ∆
Contact Arts
Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.
NEO-SOUL SPIRIT El Paso, Texas-based quintet Kikimora plays a free show at The Siren on July 4
PHOTO COURTESY OF KIKIMORA
HARP ROCK SLO Brew Live presents vocalist and harpist Mikaela Davis at Rod & Hammer Rock on July 10
COURTESY PHOTO BY JULIA DRUMMOND
Oliving large
The Groves on 41 stands out with more than a dozen olive oil flavors
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A 2022 study by the Yale School of Medicine found that people who used more than half a tablespoon of olive oil in their diet daily had a 19 percent lower risk of death from heart disease.
“We don’t consume enough olive oil in the U.S.,” Karen Tallent said. “We do about a quart of olive oil per person per year, which is not even a teaspoon a day. The Europeans consume 3 to 5 gallons per person per year. We’re trying to get people to think a little bit outside the box with—not just salads and breads—but olive oil for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.”
Along with her daughter, Jennifer, Karen runs The Groves on 41 olive farm in Templeton. Together, they farm 4,000 olive trees on 7.5 super high-density acres.
“We are more of a boutique producer,” Karen said. “We focus more on quality than quantity.”
The Groves on 41 offers 10 flavored olive oils: garlic, lemon, basil, raspberry, rosemary, jalapeño, praline, tangerine, chipotle, and cinnamon.
With breakfast, lunch, and dinner in mind, the Tallents created recipe cards with cooking ideas and serving suggestions for each olive oil. Recipes include sweet potatoes using the Koroneiki, six-minute custard with the lemon oil, crispy kale chips using the raspberry, and zucchini bread using the cinnamon. The recipes can be found on their website.
The Tallents also sell two extra virgin olive oils: the 2025 Central Coast Olive Oil Competition silver award-winning Spanish Arbequina and the certified Greek Koroneiki. The Groves’ flavored oils are made from the Arbequina base.
Offering an olive ranch
Located at 4455 E. Highway 41, the Groves on 41 offers more than a dozen olive oil flavors. Along with receiving a plethora of awards, the olive oil has been rated as one of the healthiest on the market.
The Groves on 41 can be found on Facebook and Instagram under its name. For more information, visit thegroveson41.com or call (805) 466-1542.
Arbequina balances bitter and pungent with hints of artichoke, grass, and green tea. A little drizzle brings out the succulent flavors of steak, pork, and chicken. It’s also the perfect finishing ingredient for salads, vegetables, and bread, according to Karen.
Hailing from the Kalamata olive family, Koroneiki has a peppery finish that provides a kick for steak, pork chops, or sweet potatoes.
A high polyphenol count is the best indication of a high-quality olive oil, Tallent said. The International Olive Oil Council considers 550 to be very high. Baker Wine and Grape Analysis Owner Heather Mikelonis found The Groves on 41’s olive oil to contain 642 polyphenols.
Polyphenols offer a plethora of health benefits. According to Colorado State University, they work as antioxidants and fight certain cancers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Thanks to the quality of their oils, the Tallents have received awards from the Paso Robles Olive Festival, the California State Fair, the Ventura County Fair, the Napa Valley Olive Oil Competition, the Los Angeles International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition, and WeddingWire’s Couples’ Choice.
“We sacrifice yield for the polyphenol counts,” Karen said. “The earlier you pull the olives off the trees, the higher the polyphenol count and the better the flavors—but you don’t get as many olives.”
Always thinking of her customers, Karen said she’s happy to put quality over profit. She said the Koroneiki is certified by Applied Sensory in Napa, which evaluates for the International Olive Council, even though it’s not required to be certified.
“Why go through this much work to produce a bad product?” Karen asked. Along with the olive oil, the Tallents also offer tours of their ranch. In less than two hours, guests’ palates learn the difference between quality olive oil and the stuff sold in stores. They can also meet Coco, the farm’s German shepherd. Tours are by appointment only. Karen said to call or visit the website to schedule an appointment.
Central Coast olive oil industry is improving standards nationwide, what to look for when buying olive oil, and how to incorporate olive oil into their diets.
Send tidbits on everything food and drink to bites@newtimesslo.com.
The Tallents also teach classes in which they show guests what quality olive oil tastes like and how to find the right olive oil. Participants learn the farm’s origin story, why the Tallents make olive oil, how the
After years of trying to introduce a new flavor to their lineup, Jennifer finally got her way. The Groves on 41 now produces a peanut butter olive oil, which she said pairs great with oatmeal or toast in the morning.
“You get two responses: [a negative] ‘Oh no,’” she said, or a positive, “‘Oh my goodness.’” ∆
Reach Staff Writer Reece Coren from the Sun, New Times’ sister paper, at rcoren@ santamariasun.com.
TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK Mother-daughter duo Karen and Jennifer Tallent run The Groves on 41 olive oil farm in Templeton. Together, they’ve crafted more than a dozen flavors with corresponding recipe ideas.
GRAB A CUP The rosemary olive oil, pictured in the second row closest to the cards, is made for potatoes but goes great with almost any Italian food. It pairs best with focaccia, tomato sauce, pizza, and pork.
SLURP, DON’T SIP The Tallents said anybody who doubts the quality of their olive oil should taste for themselves. Instead of sipping or shooting, Karen said to slurp the olive oil “like a little kid” when tasting.
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. Affinia Default Services, LLC, as the duly appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust Recorded December 22, 2021 as Document No.: 2021083138 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of San Luis Obispo County, California, executed by: Benjamin E. Thompson, a married man, as his sole and separate property, as Trustor, will be sold AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER for cash (payable in full at time of sale by cash, a cashier’s check drawn by 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, 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 it under said deed of trust in the property situated in said county and state, and as more fully described in the above referenced deed of trust.
Sale Date: July 29, 2025 Sale Time: 11:00 AM Sale Location: In the breezeway adjacent to the County General Services Building, 1087 Santa Rosa Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408 2 File No.:24-08705CA The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 777 Sierra Road, Nipomo, CA 93444. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made in an “AS IS” condition, 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 said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to-wit: $402,204.41 (Estimated). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. It is possible that at the time of sale the opening bid may be less than the total indebtedness due.
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 the 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, (916) 939-0772 for information regarding the trustee’s sale or visit this internet website, www.nationwideposting.com, for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case, T.S.# 24-08705CA. 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 website. 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 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 (916) 939-0772, or visit this internet website www. nationwideposting.com, using the file number assigned to this case 24-08705CA 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 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. 3 File No.:24-08705CA 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. For Pre Sale Information Log On To:
NOTICE OF SALE OF
ABANDONED PERSONAL PROPERTY
Notice is given that undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to sections 21700-21716 of the Business and Professions Code, Section 2328 of the Commercial Code, Section 535 of the Penal Code and provisions of the Civil Code.
“SuperStorage”, (formerly known as (Local-Lockit) at 884 Farroll Rd. Grover Beach, CA 93433 will sell by competitive bidding ending on or after July 15th 2025 on or after 10:00 A.M., property in storage units. Auction is to be held online at www.storagetreasures.com.
Bill Russell (15X8)
Larry Wright (10X5)
Purchases must be paid for at the time of sale in CASH ONLY.
All purchased items sold as is, where is. Items must be removed at the time of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between the owner and the obligated party. Advertiser reserves the right to bid.
Dated June 30th, 2025
To view items and units up for auction, go to StorageTreasures.com
Auction by StorageTreasures.
com
Phone (855)722-8853
Auctioneer License: 3112562
Bond#
SuperStorage (805) 481-1010
Ad to run July 3rd and July 10th 2025
NOTICE OF SALE OF ABANDONED PERSONAL PROPERTY
Notice is given that undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to sections 21700-21716 of the Business and Professions Code, Section 2328 of the Commercial Code, Section 535 of the Penal Code and provisions of the Civil Code.
“SuperStorage”, at 1380 Santa Ynez, Los Osos, Ca. 93402. will sell by competitive bidding ending on or after July 15, 2025 on or after 10:00 A.M., property in storage units. Auction is to be held online at www.storagetreasures.com.
Marlena Gray (8 x 10) Edwin Calulot (10 x 10) Purchases must be paid for at time of sale in CASH ONLY.
All purchased items sold as is, where is. Items must be removed at the time of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party.
Advertiser reserves the right to bid.
Dated June 30, 2025.
To view items and units up for auction, go to StorageTreasures.com Auction by StorageTreasures.
com Phone (855)722-8853
Auctioneer License: 3112562
Bond#
SuperStorage (805) 481-1010
Ad to run July 3, 2025 and July 10, 2025.
Notice of Self Storage Sale
Please take notice Meathead
Mini Storage located at 3600
S Higuera St San Luis Obispo CA 93401 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants at the storage facility. The sale will occur as an online auction via www.storagetreasures.com on 7/14/2025 at 10:00 AM. Eric Olson; David Vreeland. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.
June 26 & July 3, 2025
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER:
25CV-0333
To all interested persons:
Petitioner: Todd Fredrick Halverson filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Todd Fredrick Halverson PROPOSED NAME: Todd Fredrick Clark. 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 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: July 30, 2025 9:00 am, Dept: 4 in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1050 Monterey St., Room 220 San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Civil Court Operations.
A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times Date: June 2, 2025.
/s/: Tana L. Coates, Judge of the Superior Court. June 19, 26, July 3, 10, 2025
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV-0334
To all interested persons: Petitioner: Kai Mark Schoneweis a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Kai Mark Schoneweis PROPOSED NAME: Kai Mark Schonevan. 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 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: July 24, 2025 9:00 am, Dept: 2 in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1050 Monterey St., Room 220, CA 93408. Civil Court Operations. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times Date: June 2, 2025.
/s/: Craig B. van Rooyen, Judge of the Superior Court. June 19, 26, July 3, 10, 2025 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2025-1125
OLD FILE NO. 2025-0941
NAIL IMAGE, 534 W Tefft St, Nipomo,CA 93444. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 05/01/2025. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Dung T Phan (1425 Longbranch Ave Apt C 93433). This business was conducted by an Individual Dung Thi Phan. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 05/27/2025.. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mkatz, Deputy Clerk. June 12, 19, 26, July 3, 2025
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER:
25CV-0335
To all interested persons:
Petitioner: Wen Bin Elise Sullivan filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Wen Bin Elise Sullivan. PROPOSED NAME: Wen Bin Elise Schonevan. 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 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: July 24, 2025 9:00 am, Dept: 2 in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1050 Monterey St, Room 220 San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Civil Court Operations. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times Date: June 2, 2025.
/s/: Craig B. van Rooyen, Judge of the Superior Court. June 12, 19, 26, July 3, 2025 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV-0336
To all interested persons: Petitioner: Destiny Hope Mills filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Destiny Hope Mills, Killian Jason Mills. PROPOSED NAME: Destiny Hope Lyon, Killian Jason Lyon. 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 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: July 24, 2025 9:00 am, Dept: 2 in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1050 Monterey St, Room 220 San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Civil Court Operations.
A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times
Date: May 28, 2025.
/s/: Craig B. van Rooyen, Judge of the Superior Court. June 12, 19, 26, July 3, 2025 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2025-1167 OLD FILE NO. 2022-0367
STILOCHIC BY NIVI, 1385 Atlantic Ave. Spt. 219, Grover Beach, CA 93433. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 02/10/2022. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Yenizeth Naomi Meza (1385 Atlantic Ave. Spt. 219, Grover Beach, CA 93433). This business was conducted by an Individual Yenizeth Naomi Meza. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 06/02/2025. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mkatz, Deputy Clerk. June 19, 26, July 3, 10, 2025
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV-0348
To all interested persons:
Petitioner: Joi-lin Fen Garcia filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Joi-lin Fen Garcia PROPOSED NAME: Joi-lin Fen Brash. 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 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: August 6, 2025 9:00 am, Dept: 4 in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1035 Palm Street, Rm 385 San Luis Obispo CA 93408. Civil Court Operations. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times Date: May 29, 2025. /s/: Tana L. Coates, Judge of the Superior Court. June 19, 26, July 3, 10, 2025 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV-0351
To all interested persons: Petitioner: Rhiannon Christine Copeland filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Rhiannon Christine Copeland PROPOSED NAME: Rhiannon Christine Hall. 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 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: August 14, 2025 9:00 am, Dept: 2 in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1050 Monterey ST., Room 220 San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Civil Court Operations. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times Date:June 3, 2025.
/s/: Craig B. van Rooyen, Judge of the Superior Court. June 12, 19, & 26, July 3, 2025
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2025-1134
OLD FILE NO. 2021-2929
LA BELLASERA HOTEL & SUITES
206 Alexa Ct., Paso Robles, CA 93446. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 12/15/2021. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: PDOF Paso 206, LLC (3500 Lenox Road, SUite 625 Atlanta, GA 30326). his business was conducted by a Limited Liability Company PDOF Paso 206, LLC by Jatin Desai, Manager. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 05/27/2025.. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mmaltby, Deputy Clerk. June 12, 19, 26, July 3, 2025
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER:
25CV-0401
To all interested persons: Petitioner: Taneesha Regez filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Wyatt Cash Heck PROPOSED NAME: Wyatt Cash Regez. 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 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: August 20, 2025 9:00 am, Dept: 4 in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 1050 Monterey Street, Room 220 San Luis Obispo CA 93408. Civil Court Operations. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times
Date: June 18, 2025.
/s/: Tana L. Coates, Judge of the Superior Court. July 3, 10, 17, 2025
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CVP-0175
To all interested persons: Petitioner: Louis Walter Stirnkorb filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Louis Walter Stirnkorb PROPOSED NAME: Wan Sak 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 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: July 16, 2025 9:30 am, Dept: P-2 in person or by Zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 901 Park Street Paso Robles, CA 93446. Civil Court Operations. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times
Date: May 28, 2025.
/s/: Hon. Michael Kelley, Judge of the Superior Court.
June 12, 19, & 26, July 3, 2025
STATEMENT OF A BANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2025-1224
OLD FILE NO. 2021-1728
FINDERS KEEPERS 1124 Garden St San Luis Obispo CA 93401. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 07/14/2021. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Debra Anne Fogg (1124 Garden St San Luis Obispo CA 93401). This business was conducted by an Individual Debra Anne Fogg. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 06/06/2025. hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mmaltby, Deputy Clerk. June 19, 26, July 3, 10, 2025
STATEMENT OF A BANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2025-1290
OLD FILE NO. 2025-1032
AI ADVANTAGE 282 Main St, Pismo Beach, California 93449. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 05/13/2025. The following person (s): Christian Benavides, 2356 Oak Haven Lane, Arroyo Grande, CA 93430, David Kozuch, 2356 Oak Haven Lane, Arroyo Grande, CA 93430, Kyle Van Til, 282 Main St, Pismo Beach, CA 93449 have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name. This business was conducted by a General Partnership: Christian Benavides, Partner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 06/17/2025. hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk By A. Trujillo, Deputy Clerk. June 12, 19, 26, July 3, 2025
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2025-1335 OLD FILE NO. 2021-2179
TUPSS, 1241 JOHNSON AVENUE #165. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 09/02/2021. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: VENTURE TOO INC. (1241 JOHNSON AVENUE #165 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401). This business was conducted by a Corporation Venture Too Inc., Monique A. Speake, President. 1241 Johnson Avenue #165 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 06/23/2025. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mkatz, Deputy Clerk. July 3, 10, 17, 2025
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2025-1336
OLD FILE NO. 2023-2466
VEHICLE4ENSICS, 1241 Johnson Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 11/13/2023. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Venture Too, Inc. (1241 Johnson Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401). This business was conducted by a Corporation Venture Too, Inc., Monique A. Speake, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 06/23/2025. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office.
(Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mkatz, Deputy Clerk. July 3, 10, 17, 2025
STATEMENT OF ABAN DONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2025-1353
OLD FILE NO. 2019-2504
CC IMPRINT 280 Pablo Lane, Nipomo, CA 93444. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 10/24/2019. The following person has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Charlotte Lee Alexander (280 Pablo Lane Lane Nipomo CA 93444). This business was conducted by an Individual Charlotte Lee Alexander. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 06/26/2025. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By mkatz, Deputy Clerk. July 3, 10, 17, 2025
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2025-1365 OLD FILE NO. 2021-0318
GAIASGARDEN 600 Morro Bay Blvd Unit C, Morro Bay, CA 93442. San Luis Obispo County. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 02/08/2021. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Summer Dawn Birchell (475 Pacific Street Morro Bay CA 93442). Sierra Ashley Mace (475 Pacific Street Morro Bay CA 93442). This business was conducted by a General Partnership Summer Dawn Birchell. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 06/27/2025. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By atrujillo, Deputy Clerk. July 3, 10, 17, 2025
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Pursuant to California Government Code Sections 25845 and 54354-54358 and Health and Safety Code Section 5473 et seq., by which delinquent charges may be collected on the general County tax bill, the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Luis Obispo will hold a public hearing on July 15, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of Supervisors Chambers, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, regarding the proposed collection of delinquent charges on the FY 2025-26 tax roll.
All hearing items are scheduled for 9:00 a.m. To determine the placement of this item on the agenda, please contact the County Administrative Office the Thursday afternoon before the scheduled hearing date.
The accepted report describing the delinquent charges proposed to be collected on the FY 2025-26 tax roll is on file in the Office of the County Clerk and is available for public review.
DATED: June 17, 2025
Matthew P. Pontes, Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
By: /s/ Niki Martin
Deputy Clerk
June 26 & July 3, 2025
California Valley Community Service District
Notice of Amendment to Solid Waste Collection Ordinance
The California Valley Community Services District (CVCSD) Board of Directors has adopted an Amendment to Ordinance No. 2024-02, which establishes rules and regulations for the collection and disposal of solid waste (trash). This amendment is being enacted to ensure the health, welfare, and safety of all District residents.
Key changes and important information include:
• Mandatory Solid Waste Service: Weekly collection and disposal of solid waste is now mandatory for all properties within the District, regardless of whether they are developed or undeveloped. This change addresses concerns about accumulated waste on undeveloped parcels creating health and safety hazards.
• Fees and Charges: Fees for solid waste collection and disposal are established in accordance with the California Constitution and are listed in Appendix A of the Ordinance. These fees will be placed on the tax roll annually, and property owners are responsible for paying them.
Commercial Rate: $62.74 per year for ten (10) 33-35 gallon cans/bags (40 lbs or less) collected once per week.
Residential Rate: $31.36 per year for five (5) 33-35 gallon cans/bags (40 lbs or less) collected once per week.
• Prohibition on Accumulation: It is prohibited for any person to allow solid waste, rubble (construction/ demolition debris), or “cast-offs” (large household items like mattresses or furniture) to accumulate on their property, developed or undeveloped.
• Proper Disposal: The Ordinance outlines rules for proper disposal, prohibiting dumping waste on other properties, in public litter receptacles, or on public/ private drives unless in a standard container.
• Public Nuisance and Abatement: Accumulation of solid waste or rubble in violation of the Ordinance is declared a public nuisance. The District’s Operations Supervisor is authorized to notify property owners to dispose of such waste. If not removed within 10 calendar days, the matter may be referred to the San Luis Obispo County Environmental Health Department for abatement, and the costs (including administrative and attorney’s fees) will become a lien on the property.
• Exemptions: A property owner may apply for a 10% exemption from this Ordinance during the month of May each year. Exemptions may be granted if: The property is undeveloped and has been continuously unoccupied and unused for the entire 12 months preceding the application.
The property is held under a permanent conservation easement or similar restriction.
An exemption does not relieve a property owner from the prohibition on accumulating waste. HCR 69, BOX 3094 CALIFORNIA VALLEY, CA 93453 13080 SODA LAKE ROAD, CALIFORNIA VALLEY, CA. 93453 PH: (805) 475-2211 FAX (805) 475-2758 gm@californiavalley.org californiavalley.org
Exemptions are subject to annual renewal and can be terminated if the property receives a notice for accumulated waste.
• Effective Date: This Ordinance will take effect thirty (30) days after its passage (July 1, 2025). It will be posted in three public places and published in the local newspaper.
For questions, please contact the District at (805) 475-2211.
June 26 & July 3, 2025
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 5473 and County Ordinance No 3413, by which service charges may be collected on the general County tax bill, the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Luis Obispo will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of Supervisors Chambers, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, regarding the collection of sewer service charges on the FY 2025-26 tax roll for the Los Osos Sewer Service Area.
All hearing items are scheduled for 9:00 a.m. To determine the placement of this item on the agenda, please contact the County Administrative Office the Thursday afternoon before the scheduled hearing date.
The report describing the service charges proposed to be collected on the FY 2025-26 tax roll is on file in the Office of the Clerk of the Board and is available for public review.
DATED: June 17, 2025
Matthew P. Pontes, Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
By:/s/ Niki Martin Deputy Clerk
June 26 & July 3, 2025
SELECTION OF PROPOSALS
HOUSING AUTHORITY ACCEPTED PROPOSALS FOR HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER PROJECT BASED VOUCHERS
The Housing Authority of San Luis Obispo (HASLO) reviewed, rated, and ranked the submitted requests for Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Project Based Vouchers (PBV) funding for eligible lowincome affordable housing projects. Per HASLO’s Administrative Plan, the following criteria was used to rate and rank the project proposals: owner experience and capacity, meeting the criteria in the Request for Proposals, addressing HASLO’s goals, types for services and a population served, and the implementation of local Housing Elements and Countywide Plan to Address Homelessness.
The selected project proposals include:
• Bridge Street Phase II Senior Apartments in San Luis Obispo by San Luis Obispo Nonprofit was selected for 8 PBVs
• Bridge Street Phase III Family Apartments in San Luis Obispo by San Luis Obispo Nonprofit was selected for 8 PBVs
• Johnson DRT Apartments in San Luis Obispo by San Luis Obispo Nonprofit was selected for 8 PBVs
Any questions about the awarded projects or process can be submitted to Matt Leal, Project Manager mleal@haslo.org.
July 3, 2025
COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING NOTICE OF TENTATIVE ACTION / PUBLIC HEARING
WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Department Hearing
WHEN Friday, July 18, 2025 at 9:00 AM: All items are advertised for 9:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of Planning & Building at (805) 781-5600.
WHAT Hearing to consider a request by George White for a Lot Line Adjustment (LLA) (CO24-0019) to adjust the lot lines of four (4) existing parcels consisting of 34.5, 33.5, 26.3, and 28.2 gross acres to 39.4, 28.5, 18.3, and 36.3 gross acres respectively. The project will not result in the creation of any new parcels. The intent of the LLA is to accommodate the new Highway 46 East widening and realignment project currently underway by Caltrans. The project is located within the Agriculture land use category at 18005 Highway 46 East, in the community of Shandon. The site is in the ShandonCarrizo Sub-Area of the North County Planning Area.
Also to be considered is the determination that this project is exempt from environmental review under CEQA (15061.b.3 General Rule Exemption).
County File Number: N-SUB2024-00061
Supervisorial District: District 1
Assessor Parcel Number(s): 017-131-071 (+ 4 more)
Date Accepted: 5/2/2025
WHERE Virtual meeting via Zoom platform. Instructions on how to view and participate in the meeting remotely and provide public comment will be included in the published meeting Agenda and are posted on the Department’s webpage at: Planning Department Hearing (PDH) - County of San Luis Obispo (ca.gov)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A copy of the staff report will be made available on the Planning Department website at www.sloplanning.org. You may also contact Eric Tolle, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-781-5600.
TO REQUEST A PUBLIC HEARING
This matter is tentatively scheduled to appear on the consent agenda, which means that it and any other items on the consent agenda can be acted upon by the hearing officer with a single motion. An applicant or interested party may request a public hearing on this matter. To do so, send a letter to this office at the address below or send an email to pdh@co.slo.ca.us by 7/11/2025 at 4:30 PM. The letter or email must include the language “I would like to request a hearing on N-SUB2024-00061.”
If you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this public notice or in written correspondence delivered to the appropriate authority at or before the public hearing.
Ysabel Eighmy
Secretary Planning Department Hearing July 3, 2025
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
WHO
County of San Luis Obispo Planning Commission
WHEN
Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. (All items are advertised for 9:00 a.m. To find out the agenda placement call the Planning Department at 781-5600.)
WHAT
Hearing to consider an amendment to the Inland Land Use Ordinance to establish a Regional Housing Incentive Program. Countywide.
County File Number: LRP2024-00016
Assessor Parcel Number: Not applicable
Supervisorial District: All Districts
Date Authorized: March 12, 2024
WHERE
The hearing will be held in the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1055 Monterey St., Room #D170, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, CA. The Board of Supervisors Chambers are located on the corner of Santa Rosa and Monterey Streets. At the hearing all interested persons may express their views for or against, or to change the proposal.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
A copy of the staff report will be available on the Planning Department website, www.sloplanning.org. You may contact Schani Siong, Supervising Planner, in the San Luis Obispo County Department of Planning and Building, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, California 93408, (805) 781-5600 or at ssiong@co.slo.ca.us.
ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION:
Also to be considered is the environmental determination that the project is exempt under CEQA via the General Rule Exemption, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3). A Notice of Exemption has been prepared pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15062 (ED24-195).
**If you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this public notice or in written correspondence delivered to the appropriate authority at or before the public hearing. **
DATED: June 27, 2025
YSABEL EIGHMY, SECRETARY
COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
July 3, 2025
Wallin & Russell LLP 26000 Towne Centre Drive Suite 130 Foothill Ranch, CA 92610 949-652-2202
SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO 901 PARK STREET PASO ROBLES, CA 93446
PLAINTIFF/PETITIONER: Jeffrey Chase and Debora Chase, as Trustees
DEFENDANT/RESPONDENT: John Belsher, et al COURT CASE NUMBER: 18CVP-0325
LEVYING OFFICER FILE NUMBER: 2024001203
DATE: 06/05/2025
Under a Writ of Execution Issued out of the above court on 07/19/2024, on the Judgment rendered on 07/02/2024. For the sum of 4,003,149.58 (estimated); I have levied upon all the rights, title, and interest of the judgment debtor(s), John Belsher
In the real property, in the county of San Luis Obispo, described as follows: 2606 El Cerrito Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, SEE EXHIBIT “A” LEGAL DESCRIPTION. APN:003-761-035 EXHIBIT “A”
THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED REAL PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO, COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA
PARCEL 1 OF PARCEL MAP SL-86-074, IN THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO, ACCORDING TO THE MAP RECORDED ON MAY 31, 1988 IN BOOK 43, AT PAGE 43 OF PARCEL MAPS.
APN:003-761-035
Common Street Address: 2606 El Cerrito Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Minimum Bid Amount (if applicable): PROSPECTIVE BIDDERS SHOULD REFER TO SECTIONS 701.510 to 701.680, INCLUSIVE, OF THE CODE OF CIVIL PROCEDURE FOR PROVISIONS GOVERNING THE TERMS, CONDITIONS, AND EFFECT OF THE SALE AND THE LIABILITY OF DEFAULTING BIDDERS.
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I will proceed to sell at public auction to the highest bidder, for cash in lawful money of the United States, all the rights, title, and interest of said judgment debtor(s) in the above described property, or so much thereof as may be necessary to satisfy said execution, with accrued interest and costs on: 07/16/2025 at 11:00am in the San Luis Obispo Courthouse, located at 1050 Monterey Street, Room 236, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408
Directions to the property location can be obtained from the levying officer upon oral or written request.
Ian S. Parkinson, Sheriff-Coroner /s/ M. Neufeld, Deputy, Sheriff’s Authorized Agent LIENS MAY BE PRESENT WHICH MAY OR MAY NOT SURVIVE THIS LEVY.
June 26, July 3 & 10, 2025
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CITY OF PISMO BEACH STATE OF CALIFORNIA NOTICE TO PROPOSERS
PROPOSALS will be received electronically by the City of Pismo Beach via the City’s e-Procurement Portal PlanetBids, until 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, July 31, 2025 for performing work as follows:
AIRSTREAM CONCESSION AT THE PISMO PIER
The City of Pismo Beach is interested in acquiring the services of a qualified restauranteur to equip, operate, and maintain a City-owned Airstream Food Truck and provide related services which will include food preparation, beer and wine sales on the Pismo Beach Pier, 100 Pier Way, Pismo Beach, CA 93449.
All proposals will be compared based on the proposer’s background, experience, ability, and capacity to responsibly service the public that visit the pier; proposed business plan including concept, menu, operating plan and financial plan; quality of references; and key personnel assignments.
Only those proposals submitted per the requirements of the Request for Proposals and certified by an authorized company officer will be considered. Proposals received by fax, email, or hardcopy will be rejected.
All questions must be submitted in writing through the PlanetBids Procurement Question/Answer Tab via the City’s e-Procurement portal, on or before the Question & Answer Submission Date and Time. All questions submitted and answers provided shall be electronically distributed to all proposers who have selected to “follow” this RFP on the City’s e-Procurement Portal.
Proposals must be submitted online using the City’s electronic bidding platform which can be accessed at www.pismobeach.org/bids.
ERICA INDERLIED
CITY CLERK
July 3 & 10, 2025
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OF TEMPLETON COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT REGARDING COLLECTION OF STREET LIGHT ASSESSMENTS, COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT 2017-1 ASSESSMENTS, MEASURE A PARCEL TAX, DELINQUENT WEED ABATEMENT FEES, AND DELINQUENT WATER AND SEWER CHARGES/ADMINISTRATIVE ORDERS
The Templeton Community Services District will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, beginning at 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of affording any individual who has street light assessments, delinquent weed abatement fees, Community Facilities District (CFD) 2017-1 assessments, Measure A Parcel Tax, or delinquent water and/or sewer charges/administrative orders, together with penalties thereon, as shown on the report filed with the District Board of Directors, to be heard by the Board regarding such assessments, delinquent fees and/ or charges, and their collection on the County tax roll.
All interested parties are invited to join the meeting in-person, or call in via Zoom to participate in the hearing, provide comments, or be heard:
Public Call in # to Participate is as follows: ZOOM Phone #: 1-669-900-6833
Meeting ID: 843 9960 8527 Passcode: 607204
Or Join the Zoom Meeting at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84399608527?pwd=e7Kj1miXEhCYx HmL6AlSKTt4EnxyTl.1
At the public hearing on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, the District will consider any and all comments and objections to the authorization of collection of street light assessments, CFD 2017-1 assessments, and delinquent fees and charges, together with penalties thereon, on the tax roll pursuant to Government Code Section 61115(b). Any questions regarding the information in this notice may be directed to Natalie Klock, Finance Officer of the District, at (805) 434-4900. All information and documents regarding the assessments, and delinquent fees and charges are available for inspection at the Templeton Community Services District office located at 420 Crocker Street, Templeton.
OTHER PUBLIC COMMENT OPTIONS: The public may also provide comment via e-mail or letters that will be distributed to the Board of Directors. E-mails may be sent to the Board Clerk at boardclerk@templetoncsd.org. Letters may be mailed to the District Office at P.O. Box 780, Templeton, CA 93465. Letters may also be dropped-off at the District’s DropBox located outside the District Office at 420 Crocker Street, Templeton. People may also call the District Office at (805) 434-4900 to leave a message concerning items on the agenda. Public input using one of these methods must be received by Tuesday, July 15, 2025 by 3:00 p.m. July 3 & 10, 2025
Item 39: Public Comment Period – Items not on the agenda: None.
Item 40: Mobile Probation Services Center Update, rec’d & filed.
Item 41: Presentation from KPMG on their operational performance review of the Health Agency, rec’d & filed.
Item 42: Res. 2025-138, FY 2025-26 County budget as well as the budget for the Board governed special districts & Res.. 2025-139, FY 2025-26 Position Allocation List, adopted as amended.
Item 43: Closed Session: Anticipated Litigation. (1) Significant exposure to litigation - Number of potential cases: 1; Facts & circumstances: Potential litigation concerning private stormwater infrastructure & a failing drainage pipe traversing Lot 68 of Tract 1497 in Avila Beach, and (2) Initiation of litigation: Number of potential cases: One. Pending Litigation. Existing Litigation: SLO Coastkeeper, et. al. v. Co. of SLO, U.S. District Court, Central District of CA, Western Division, Case No. 2:24-CV-06854-SPG-ASx. Conference w/ Labor Negotiator re: employee organizations: SLOPA; SLOCEA-T&C; DCCA; Sheriffs’ Mgmt; SLOCPPOA; DSA; DAIA; SLOCPMPOA; SLOCEA – PSSC; Unrepresented Mgmt & Confidential Employees; SDSA; UDWA & Unrepresented Employee: County Administrative Officer. Open Session. Report out.
Item 44: Tax and Equity Fiscal Responsibility Act hearing & Res. 2025-140, approving the $71,000,000 Bond by the CA Municipal Finance Authority for financing the 2025 New Money Project; refinance 2 outstanding loans to a prior project, adopted.
Item 51: Res. 2025-141, forming Zone A w/in CSA 23; CEQA exempt, adopted.
Item 45: Ord. 3542 establishing water service for CSA 23, Zone A (Santa Margarita); CEQA exempt, adopted.
Item 46: Ord. 3543 amending wastewater service charges for CSA 7, Zone A (Oak Shores), adopted.
Item 47: Ord. 3544 amending Wastewater Service Charges for CSA 18 (SLO Country Club Estates), adopted.
Item 48: Res. 2025-142 approving solid waste collection rates in unincorporated areas of the Co. of SLO including rural areas surrounding Avila Beach & Arroyo Grande, Varian Ranch & Halcyon, Nipomo Bluff (does not include areas w/in Nipomo CSD), Nipomo Mesa, Woodlands, Los Berros, adopted.
Item 49: Protest hearing re: the proposed solid waste collection rate increase w/in the service area provided by Mission Country Disposal in the unincorporated areas including rural areas of Los Osos, Morro Bay, Cayucos, San Simeon, Cambria, Harmony, cont’d to 8/5/25 w/ direction to staff to further analyze rate structure & organics fee.
Item 50: Res. 2025-143 approving solid waste collection rates in unincorporated areas including rural areas surrounding the City of SLO, Airport, Rolling Hills Country Club, Evans Rd, & Davenport Creek Rd, adopted.
Item 52: Board Member comments & reports: [5-0] motion to direct staff to bring a Local Agency Management Program (LAMP) process update. [3-2] motion to direct staff to draft a letter stating a position to proposed Medicaid funding cuts. Meeting adjourned.
For more details, view meeting videos at: https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/ Departments/Administrative-Office/Clerk-of-the-Board/Clerk-of-the-BoardServices/Board-of-Supervisors-Meetings-and-Agendas.aspx
Matthew P. Pontes, County Administrative Officer & Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of Supervisors By: Annette Ramirez, Deputy Clerk of the Board of Supervisors July 3, 2025
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS
Applications to make minor changes to the properties at the addresses listed below have been received by the City.
1. 4600 Broad St. DIR-0401-2025; Request for a Night Work Permit to perform work for a maximum of eleven (11) nights from July 14 to July 25, 2025 from the hours of 7:00 p.m. to 7 a.m. to utility services from the west side of Broad Street to the east side to service a new gas station (categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review); C-S Zone; JJ Fisher Construction, applicant. (Mallory Patino)
2. 12398 Los Osos Valley Rd. DIR-0503-2025; Request for a Night Work Permit to perform work for a maximum of one night from July 14 to October 1, 2025 from the hours of 9:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. to perform a walking survey with rolling barricade traffic control and drilling two ½” holes to reach top of soil (categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review); C-S-S Zone; SoCalGas, applicant. (Mallory Patino)
3. 1642 Lizzie Ct. ARCH-0367-2024; Minor Development Review of the construction of a new single-family dwelling in a Special Consideration (S) Overlay Zone. The proposal includes an exception from standards for Fences, Walls, and Hedges to allow combined wall and fence height to exceed six feet in height as measured from the interior of the site at the east side setback area. The proposed development is consistent with the Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) for the Bowden Ranch Estates Subdivision, certified by City Council in October 2003 (Resolution 9489); R-1-S Zone; Sean Bolduan, applicant. (Walter Oetzell)
4. 1253 Mill St. ARCH-0005-2025; Minor Development
Review of the construction of a new single-family dwelling on a Contributing List Property within the Mill Street Historic District (categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review); R-2-H Zone; Darren Pollard, applicant. (Walter Oetzell)
The Community Development Director will either approve or deny these applications no sooner than July 14, 2025.
The Director’s decision may be appealed, and must be filed with the appropriate appeal fee within 10 days of the Director’s action. For more information, contact the City of San Luis Obispo Community Development Department, 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, stop by Monday and Wednesday between 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday between 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or call (805) 781-7170, weekdays, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. July 3, 2025
Free Will Astrology by Rob Brezsny
Homework: What aptitude of yours do you underestimate? Use it more aggressively! Newsletter.freewillastrology.com
ARIES
(March 21-April 19): Greek philosopher Socrates declared, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” That extreme statement is a foundational idea of Western philosophy. It’s hard to do! To be ceaselessly devoted to questioning yourself is a demanding assignment. But here’s the good news: I think you will find it extra liberating in the coming weeks. Blessings and luck will flow your way as you challenge your dogmas and expand your worldview. Your humble curiosity will attract just the influences you need.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20): Recently, I brought an amazing Taurus to your attention: the German polymath Athanasius Kircher, who lived from 1601 to 1680. Once again, I will draw on his life to provide guidance for you. Though he’s relatively unknown today, he was the Leonardo da Vinci of his age—a person with a vast range of interests. His many admirers called him “Master of a Hundred Arts.” He traveled extensively and wrote 40 books that covered a wide array of subjects. For years, he curated a “cabinet of curiosities” or “wonder-room” filled with interesting and mysterious objects. In the coming weeks, I invite you to be inspired by his way of being, Taurus. Be richly miscellaneous and wildly versatile.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 20): How does a person become a creative genius in their field? What must they do to become the best?
In his book Outliers Malcolm Gladwell said that one way to accomplish these goals is to devote 10,000 hours to practicing and mastering your skill set. There’s some value in that theory, though the full truth is more nuanced. Determined, focused effort that’s guided by mentors and bolstered by good feedback is more crucial than simply logging hours. Having access to essential resources is another necessity. I bring these thoughts to your attention, Gemini, because I believe the coming months will be a favorable time to summon a high level of disciplined devotion as you expedite your journey toward mastery.
CANCER
(June 21-July 22): There’s a story from West African tradition in which a potter listens to the raw material she has gathered from the earth. She waits for it to tell her what it wants to become. In this view, the potter is not a dictator but a midwife. I believe this is an excellent metaphor for you, Cancerian. Let’s imagine that you are both the potter and the clay. A new form is ready to emerge, but it won’t respond to force. You must attune to what wants to be born through you. Are you trying to shape your destiny too insistently, when it’s already confiding in you about its preferred shape? Surrender to the conversation.
LEO
(July 23-Aug. 22): Here’s my odd but ultimately rewarding invitation: Tune in to the nagging aches and itches that chafe at the bottom of your heart and in the back of your mind. For now, don’t try to scratch them or rub them. Simply observe them and feel them, with curiosity and reverence. Allow them to air their grievances and tell you their truths. Immerse yourself in the feelings they arouse. It may take 10 minutes, or it might take longer, but if you maintain this vigil, your aches and itches will ultimately provide you with smart guidance. They will teach you what questions you need to ask and how to go in quest for the healing answers.
VIRGO
(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Wise gardeners may plan their planting by the moon’s phases. Through study of the natural world, they understand that seeds sown at the ripe moment will flourish, while those planted at random times may be less hardy. In this spirit, I offer you the following counsel for the coming weeks: Your attention to timing will be a great asset. Before tinkering with projects or making commitments, assess the cycles at play in everything: the level of your life energy, the moods of others, and the tenor of the wider world. By aligning your moves with subtle rhythms, you will optimize your ability to get exactly what you want.
LIBRA
(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In parts of Italy, grapevines were once trained not on wires or trellises, but on living trees, usually maples or poplars. The vines spiraled upward, drawing strength and structure from their tall allies. The practice kept grapes off the ground, improved air circulation, and allowed for mixed land use, such as growing cereals between the rows of trees and vines. In the coming weeks, Libra, I advise you to be inspired by this phenomenon. Climb while in relationship. Who or what is your living trellis? Rather than pushing forward on your own, align with influences that offer height, grounding, and steady companionship. When you spiral upward together, your fruits will be sweeter and more robust.
SCORPIO
(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Migratory monarch butterflies travel thousands of miles, guided by instincts and cues invisible to humans. They trust they will find what they need along the way. Like them, you may soon feel called to venture beyond your comfort zone—intellectually, socially, or geographically. I advise you to rely on your curiosity and adaptability. According to my analysis of the astrological omens, the journey will lead you to resources and help you hadn’t anticipated. The path may be crooked. The detours could be enigmatic. But if you are committed to enjoying the expansive exploration, you’ll get what you didn’t even know you needed.
SAGITTARIUS
(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Your assignment is to uncover hidden treasures. Use the metaphorical version of your peripheral vision to become aware of valuable stuff you are missing and resources you are neglecting. Here’s another way to imagine your task: There may be situations, relationships, or opportunities that have not yet revealed their full power and glory. Now is a perfect moment to discern their pregnant potential. So dig deeper, Sagittarius—through reflection, research, or conversation. Trust that your open-hearted, openminded probing will guide you to unexpected gems.
CAPRICORN
(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong said, “If you have to ask what jazz is, you’ll never know.” What did he mean by that? That we shouldn’t try to use words to describe and understand this complex music? Countless jazz critics, scholars, and musicians might disagree with that statement. They have written millions of words analyzing the nature of jazz. In that spirit, I am urging you to devote extra energy in the coming weeks to articulating clear ideas about your best mysteries. Relish the prospect of defining what is hard to define. You can still enjoy the raw experience even as you try to get closer to explaining it.
AQUARIUS
(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): In the Andean highlands, there’s a concept called ayni, a venerated principle of reciprocity. “Today for you, tomorrow for me,” it says. This isn’t a transactional deal. It’s a relational expansiveness. People help and support others not because they expect an immediate return. Rather, they trust that life will ultimately find ways to repay them. I suggest you explore this approach in the coming weeks, Aquarius. Experiment with giving freely, without expectation. Conversely, have blithe faith that you will receive what you need. Now is prime time to enhance and fine-tune your web of mutual nourishment.
PISCES
(Feb. 19-March 20): How often do I, your calm, sensible counselor, provide you with a carte blanche to indulge in exuberant gratification, a free pass for exciting adventures, and a divine authorization to indulge in luxurious abundance and lavish pleasure? Not often, dear Pisces. So I advise you not to spend another minute wondering what to do next. As soon as possible, start claiming full possession of your extra blessings from the gods of joy and celebration and revelry. Here’s your meditation question: What are the best ways to express your lust for life? ∆
