Avoid Back Surgery!
Editor’s note
Before St. Fratty’s Day in San Luis Obispo, there was Mardi Gras. Before that, there was Poly Royal. Each experienced the party limits of the city and its residents before being snuffed out by city officials. But SLO’s raucus street parties are matched by another on the Central Coast. Isla Vista, where Halloween gave way to Floatopia, which is now Deltopia. Law enforcement, emergency medical services, and residents are on high alert when the annual college kid festivities roll around. Staff Writer Libbey Hanson speaks with law enforcement and other public officials about the parties and what they mean for public safety [8]. Also this week, read about what has some parents in the Atascadero school district riled up [4], a graphic novel for youth about divorce [20], and Zoe’s pies at SLO Ranch Market [29]
Camillia Lanham editor
cover courtesy photo by Steve Walker
design by Alex Zuniga
STREET STRAGGLERS Hathaway Avenue and Bond Street in San Luis Obispo hosted an evergrowing St. Fratty’s Day party that peaked in 2024. In 2025, those same streets were mostly empty that weekend, after law enforcement and Cal Poly ramped up efforts to prevent it from happening.
Atascadero school board denies Carrisa Plains another teacher
Carrisa Plains Elementary parents are concerned about their students’ route to school once they hit the sixth grade.
With the closest middle school about 50 miles away from the rural community in Santa Margarita, middle schoolers spend long hours on a bus each day, keeping them from home about 55 hours a week between class and travel.
“To think that any adults or administration
would allow kids to be on a bus [and in class] for 55 hours as a mom is crazy to me,” one parent told the Atascadero Unified School District board on May 6.
In fact, five parents aired these concerns to the school board and asked it to hire an additional teacher to support students at Carrisa Plains until high school. While district Superintendent Tom Butler said the board appreciated the parents’ comments, he also said that wasn’t going to happen—at least this school year.
Currently, Carrisa Plains teaches grades K-5. Students sixth grade and older are bussed to Atascadero Middle and High schools, roughly 50 miles away.
Parents spoke at the May 6 meeting as six students dressed in blue stood behind them holding signs that read, “Bussing Polecats stinks,” featuring a perturbed skunk with its arms crossed.
Parent Adriane Twisselman told the board that they weren’t asking for special treatment but just wanted to be heard. She also criticized the board’s history of lacking transparency and community input.
Carrisa Plains started as a K-8 school in the 1950s, then transitioned to a K-5 model in 2012 when the board of education citizens
Oceano residents ask for exemption from proposed county fireworks rules
San Luis Obispo County introduced an updated fireworks ordinance that tightens enforcement around people hosting and knowingly attending events that use illegal and unpermitted fireworks.
But some Oceano residents and South County representative 4th District Supervisor Jimmy Paulding are concerned that the newly proposed rules and existing county regulations that only recently took affect for the area will change longstanding Fourth of July traditions and impact fundraising opportunities for nonprofits and church groups in the South County town.
“We have been selling fireworks in Oceano for over 20 years,” Central Coast Worship Center pastor Greg Noe said. “The sales helped us with food ministry. We provide 1,000 meals and 1,000 pounds of groceries to the public every year.”
Fireworks are regulated at both the state and county levels. California regulations prohibit the sale and use of all fireworks except safe and sane ones and permitted displays. SLO County adopted the state rules and added an amendment to ban safe and sane fireworks, too. These are fireworks tested and approved by the state fire marshal.
But state law allows community services districts that provide fire services to adopt ordinances
that regulate or prohibit fireworks within those regions. While the county code prohibits use of safe and sane fireworks throughout the county fire jurisdiction, it carved out exceptions for community services districts that have fire responsibilities.
Under the care of the Oceano Community Services District (OCSD), groups like Central Coast Worship Center have long enjoyed that privilege for its weeklong fireworks sales prior to Fourth of July.
But the OCSD’s divesture from fire service responsibility—now assumed by the county through a contract with the Five Cities Fire Authority— changes the process of selling and using fireworks in Oceano.
“The [state] code also states that where the city or county in which the special district lies has adopted an ordinance related to the fireworks, the city or county ordinance will supersede the special district ordinance,” SLO County Administrative Analyst Mia Trevelyan said at the May 6 Board of Supervisors meeting. Currently, San Miguel and Templeton community services districts and Morro Bay, Arroyo Grande, and Grover Beach have adopted ordinances to allow for the use of safe and sane fireworks. Trevelyan told New Times that permits are only issued for public professional firework displays, which must be licensed by the Office of the State Fire Marshall and permitted through Cal Fire. Supervisors unanimously approved bulking up the county fireworks ordinance with enforcement
advisory committee determined it to be the most beneficial for Atascadero district students, Superintendent Butler explained at the meeting. After that decision, Atascadero Middle School was built in 2017 to accommodate students.
Twisselman said the board didn’t consider public input then and still isn’t now, making its promises “hollow.”
Patty Hermosillo said the long bus rides take a toll on middle schoolers’ mental health because they’re so far away from home, and it places a “burden” on families financially if students don’t take the bus.
“It’s exhausting and expensive on the gas budget,” Hermosillo said.
Superintendent Butler said that while he valued their perspective, “we have seen generally that students come to the middle grades … and do very well.”
Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Kendyl Darnell told parents that Carrisa Plains doesn’t have the attendance numbers to justify hiring a new teacher and would be something the district would look at if the community grows by about 20 more attending students.
It’s still something for the board to look out for but should be evaluated on a “broader basis” to every student they serve, Darnell said.
“We also have other rural areas, and some of them also have students traveling a significant distance,” she said.
As an informational item on the agenda, the board took no action but shared its sentiments to the concerned parents.
“We know what high-quality people you are, and we do hear you. I don’t know if we can resolve everything you want but you do a great job representing yourself,” board member Jodi Arnold said.
Board clerk Denise McGrew-Kane said that the board wasn’t “heartless,” and the issue wasn’t about the money—the board just needed time to figure out the complexities of the matter.
The board didn’t specify whether the topic would be placed on an upcoming agenda. ∆
—Libbey Hanson
actions like charging administrative fines of $1,000 per violation. The update also includes a provision for the recovery of response costs from anyone flouting the rules, like costs to repair equipment and dispose seized fireworks and medical treatment expenses for enforcement officer injuries.
The proposed ordinance also holds hosts of social gatherings, knowing spectators of firework shows, and parents/guardians of minors accountable if they violate the fireworks code.
While supervisors unanimously approved introducing the ordinance, Paulding echoed some South County residents’ requests to exempt Oceano from the prohibition.
“I understand the general need to focus on fire prevention efforts, and I think illegal fireworks are certainly a major risk,” said Paulding, who’s also a member of the county Fireworks Ad Hoc Committee. “But in terms of the South County tradition of families coming together and using sparklers and whatever else qualifies as safe and sane, I’d like to maintain that tradition.”
First District Supervisor John Peschong supported excluding Oceano from the ban.
“They’ve been doing it for years, it’s not something they just started,” he said. “I have two communities that have safe and sane fireworks, there’s not a lot of fires started with those. It’s the illegal stuff that starts the fires.”
ON THE ROAD AGAIN Carrisa Plains Elementary students held this sign at the May 6 Atascadero school board meeting as their parents shared concerns about their kids traveling 50 miles a day to attend Atascadero Middle School.
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professor David Cole also joined the three on the stand.
“I believe that DEI chills and actually restricts and restrains academic freedom. It’s been my view that diversity means no ideological diversity,” Wilson said.
Armstrong responded by saying that Cal Poly focuses on all students’ success and is competitive under Proposition 209, which prohibits state and local governments from discriminating based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin.
“So, we’ve been operating under an affirmative action ban during that time, and we have had significant changes in the makeup of our population, because we’ve increased financial aid,” Armstrong said before Wilson cut him off.
Committee questions for the other presidents focused on specific instances of antisemitic violence on campus and whether disciplinary action had occurred like encampment cleanups at DePaul and antisemitic faculty interactions at Haverford.
Haverford President Raymond said that disciplinary action is a part of the college’s processes but wouldn’t speak to specific cases.
“Discrimination is not tolerated on campus,” she repeated in response to multiple questions.
to union members—front-line health care workers—containing an electronic ballot followed. A week later, results showed that 91 percent of 98 union members voted to strike.
“That’s essentially all of our members that are not on maternity leave or on some other form of leave,” Solemar said.
A strike vote doesn’t immediately guarantee a strike but authorizes the bargaining team to call for one. The workers haven’t yet set a date for the strike, and services at the Central Coast clinics are active as of May 14.
Allegedly dissatisfied with management, several Planned Parenthood employees have reportedly quit to accept jobs with better workplace conditions and stronger health insurance. It’s resulted in the Central Coast clinics being short-staffed, according to Solemar who’s also the program director for gender-affirming care.
Recently, he saw a patient who came to their appointment upset because they had a three-week gap in their hormone therapy despite calling the clinic a week before they ran out of their medication.
The other supervisors—including fellow Fireworks Ad Hoc Committee member and 2nd District Supervisor Bruce Gibson— rejected the idea. They said that the threat of illegal fireworks-related accidents was too large, and that exempting Oceano from enforcement wouldn’t be fair on other communities.
Paulding added that he’s ready for more discussion when the item comes back before the board on May 20. Oceano’s Pastor Noe is already working on a petition to show support for an Oceano exemption, which he plans to present that day.
“The overarching issue is people should be free to celebrate Fourth of July with legal safe and sane fireworks,” he told New Times. “We can benefit by being funded by the county to provide hot meals and groceries.”
—Bulbul Rajagopal
Cal Poly President Armstrong testifies at congressional antisemitism hearing
Cal Poly President Jeffrey Armstrong testified before Congress on May 7 about how the university has addressed antisemitism on campus and was spared intense interrogation compared to two other university presidents who also took the stand that day.
Titled “Beyond the Ivy League: Stopping the Spread of Antisemitism on American Campuses,” the May 7 hearing was chaired by Tim Walberg (R-Michigan) of the Congressional Committee on Education and Workforce as an attempt to hold college administrators accountable for allowing antisemitism on campuses.
“The instances we are discussing with our witnesses today are truly appalling and shameful,” Walberg said when opening the hearing, referring to allegations that that the university administrators had made concessions to the organizers of illegal encampments, deliberately chose to withhold support for Jewish students, and failed to impose discipline among those who engaged in antisemitic conduct.
Armstrong was accompanied by Haverford College President Wendy Raymond and DePaul University President Robert Manuel. Former ACLU lawyer and current Georgetown University law and public policy
Within the three-hour hearing, Armstrong only spoke for about eight minutes and wasn’t asked about any specific event on campus.
A previous letter from the committee outlined information it had received from an individual with first-hand knowledge about a Cal Poly professor’s alleged verbal harassment of Jewish students and others in April 2024.
In their opening statements, each president said they condemned antisemitism and recognized their mistakes when handling violence on campus.
“We can do better, and I can do better,” Haverford President Raymond said. “I am committed to getting this right.”
DePaul President Manuel said he was “deeply sorry” and knows the areas the university can do better.
Cal Poly President Armstrong said the university’s goal is “continuous improvement,” and that the university held individuals accountable for antisemitic acts. He also mentioned the new antisemitism task force, which will go into effect this month.
Members of the task force will evaluate data collected through a Jewish climate survey this spring to develop a campus action plan focused on Jewish student life, antisemitism education, and cultural awareness.
The May 7 hearing was based on a oneyear investigation by the Committee on Education and Workforce, after it released findings on how antisemitism affected college campuses last October. In addition, all three of the universities received failing grades from the Anti-Defamation League for not addressing antisemitic tensions on campus amid the Israel-Gaza war. Although, since introducing the new task force, Cal Poly’s grade was raised to a “D,” despite receiving a high grade for quality of Jewish life on campus.
Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (R-California) commended Armstrong for fostering a quality environment for Jewish students and for having a “high return on investments” when graduated students go into the workforce.
“Thank you for that, and you’ve done really good work on this instance,” DeSaulnier said.
U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson (R-South Carolina), criticized Armstrong on being an “outspoken DEI proponent” and lacking Republican representation on campus.
While some Republican committee members stated that the presidents’ apologies were “hollow,” or just “lip service,” Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-Oregon) criticized the committee for blaming antisemitism on the left and said the hearing that day was “not a good faith effort.”
“Let’s denounce antisemitism from the administration,” she said and specifically named recent actions by the Trump administration, including the dismantling of the Department of Education, which houses the Office of Civil Rights and handles cases of antisemitism.
After the hearing, Cal Poly Assistant Vice President for Communications and Media Relations Matt Lazier sent New Times an emailed statement.
“President Armstrong appreciated the opportunity to share with the committee the many actions Cal Poly has taken to address antisemitism and ensure the entire Cal Poly community feels safe and secure so all can thrive,” the statement said.
—Libbey Hanson
Planned Parenthood’s Central Coast workers approve strike over poor compensation
Planned Parenthood clinics in San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Thousand Oaks, and Oxnard are poised to stop services until management improves labor practices contributing to high turnover rates.
“We’ve heard a few different things from staff who have quit recently,” Planned Parenthood staff physician Mike Solemar said. “Some of the most common reasons are that they don’t feel listened to by their supervisors, that they don’t feel adequately compensated for the hard work that they do, especially working evenings and weekend shifts.”
Solemar’s home clinic is in Ventura, but he travels to most of Planned Parenthood California Central Coast’s six locations. His work includes providing vasectomies in SLO and soon in Santa Maria and abortions in Thousand Oaks.
The decision to strike germinated from an internal informational town hall about a strike vote organized earlier in May. An email
“We were booked out four weeks, and so they had to wait and ended up with a gap in their hormones,” Solemar said. “It is very distressing, and it undoes a lot of the work they had done in their transition, and I was very frustrated, because I pride myself on providing high-quality care.”
He said he wants Planned Parenthood management to bargain in good faith so that turnover rates can be reduced and patients get the care they deserve. While the full list of demands is being ironed out, Solemar added that workers are advocating for a wage differential to receive higher pay for evening and weekend shifts.
A May 12 press release stated that Planned Parenthood’s leadership has ignored calls to bargain in good faith, forcing workers to take action. But the Central Coast region’s President and CEO Jenna Tosh disagreed in statement sent to New Times.
“To date, we have participated in 14 bargaining sessions with SEIU-UHW [the union],” Tosh said. “Throughout those sessions, we have maintained a respectful and productive working relationship, which has allowed us to make great progress. In fact, we have reached tentative agreements on 15 items, with just a few outstanding items remaining that we have been actively working to reach an agreement on.” Tosh added that leadership learned through social media that the union decided to conduct a strike authorization vote. According to her, the union hasn’t contacted the Central Coast chapter directly about the proposed strike. Tosh also said that the union hasn’t issued a written 10-day strike notice yet, which is required before a health care strike can occur.
She told New Times that its clinics have better turnover rates compared to industry standards.
“We are transparent about our hours when hiring and consider our full schedule when determining base pay,” Tosh said. “Additionally, our contract proposal includes 12 percent to 17 percent in pay raises over the three years of the contract, as well as an increase in minimum wage, differential pay for employees who float to different centers and cover shifts.”
—Bulbul Rajagopal
NEWS from page 4
CARVE-OUT CALL 4th District Supervisor Jimmy Paulding echoed Oceano residents concerns during a May 6 Board of Supervisors meeting that changes to safe and sane fireworks rules could hamper nonprofits’ fundraising efforts.
Ghosts of parties past Ghosts of parties past Ghosts of parties past
For decades, SLO and Santa Barbara have hosted raging parties, but officials want to quash them for the sake of public safety
If San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara know anything, it’s how to have a good time with decades of history to back it up.
Yearly events like St. Fratty’s Day and Deltopia are household names, whether perceived as famous or infamous. If you consider them famous, you’ve likely been one of the thousands of people who lled SLO’s streets in a sea of green. Maybe you’ve stormed Santa Barbara’s beaches to drunkenly oat ocean waves or bike topless through the Isla Vista neighborhoods blasting EDM beats.
If, on the other hand, infamous is the term you prefer, maybe you’ve been a perturbed neighbor trapped in your driveway by droves of drunk, noisy college students, or you’ve experienced property damage or watched in fear as your local fraternity bro scaled a utility pole.
For more than 40 years, the Central Coast has hosted these street parties with attendees in the thousands. Law enforcement contends that such revelry is both illegal and a public safety issue.
While many residents, students, and outof-towners have come to look forward to St. Fratty’s and Deltopia every year, Santa Barbara County Sheri ’s O ce Cmdr. Garrett Te Slaa said these events are a “signi cant drain” on local resources.
“It damages private property, and it’s this amorphous event with no particular leader,” Te Slaa told New Times. “And so it makes it very di cult to police as a result of that, and also very, very expensive.”
Te Slaa said that police want to foster and encourage public parties because throwing such events is residents’ right under the First Amendment. But when parties grow to thousands of people in local neighborhoods like current day St. Fratty’s and Deltopia celebrations, that’s when law enforcement has to become a party pooper.
Early days
Isla Vista’s Deltopia hasn’t always been that—it actually started as “Floatopia” in 2009, Te Slaa said, as a way for residents to celebrate the week back after spring break. Students and residents alike would gather on
the beach to party, drink, and be merry. But it quickly turned problematic after celebrations left signi cant environmental damage to the beaches, forcing Santa Barbara County Parks to close them and deter further partying and damage.
“And so, it went from Floatopia to moving up to Del Playa becoming ‘Deltopia,’” Te Slaa said. “ ey close the beaches every year, so that’s why it’s on the public street.”
Floatopia grew out of control so quickly, thanks at least in part to its proximity to UC Santa Barbara, Te Slaa said. UCSB has a reputation, ranked as the No. 2 party school in the nation by Playboy in 2006.
“It is a badge of honor for many of the residents that they go to UCSB because of its party reputation,” he said. “ e nature of Isla Vista, being an unincorporated area right next to campus and right on the beach, fosters a lot of that community participation in the party culture.”
Before Floatopia, Halloween put Isla Vista on the party map, Te Slaa said.
“Halloween, for decades, was a major event where people from all over the country would come in and essentially do the same thing [as Deltopia]. ey would dress up, and they would party in the streets, and they’d go house to house party-hopping in costume. And it took us decades to get that under control,” he said.
Halloween would see nearly 50,000 people in the streets of Isla Vista, Te Slaa said.
“It wasn’t until close to 2014 that really, we nally put a nail in the co n of Halloween,” he said.
SLO also quashed a raging public party that started in the 1970s. During the holiday of Mardi Gras, each February the downtown streets would be lled with thousands of revelers.
According to 2003 New Times reporting, two residents would travel Monterey Street in the early days and throw beads at pedestrians. Eventually, the event grew into one of SLO’s largest recorded celebrations, once hitting a crowd of 30,000, resulting in at least 120 arrests.
Current SLO Police Department Deputy Chief Fred Mickel was relatively new in SLO when Mardi Gras peaked in the early 2000s.
“At the time, we were the biggest Mardi Gras parade outside of New Orleans. It was really, actually a pretty festive event,” he said.
As a public-run event, the parade was permitted by the city to close the downtown streets.
“ ousands upon thousands of people would show up. And it was really a good event for a while, but what eventually started happening is it started rolling into … the neighborhoods,” Mickel said. “So that’s where it started to change the dynamics of what was going on, … spilling into the streets and having illegal street parties.”
As law enforcement worked to clear up the neighborhoods, partiers turned violent in 2004, throwing rocks and bottles at police and nearby property. Mickel said the media dubbed this event the “Mardi Gras riot,” and it led to the end of the Mardi Gras parade.
“We had max deployment o cers, and we just went to zero tolerance on just parties and illegal behaviors and things like that. And
BY LIBBEY HANSON
then also the organization that was having the parade no longer was doing the parade, so that didn’t draw crowds,” Mickel said.
He called it an “eye-opening” experience in his career.
“ is is not what I expected from San Luis Obispo. And so, yeah, I agree with what the papers coined it as. It turned into pretty much a riot when they’re throwing rocks and bottles and vandalizing,” he said. e party, he said, shouldn’t have moved into residential neighborhoods.
“It really was a great, neat downtown event. You know, that’s kind of the di erence between the events that are happening up in the neighborhoods versus a downtown event. Downtown is where you’re supposed to do this stu , right?” Mickel said. “Downtown is built to have parades. Downtown is built to have large amounts of people going to bars, but the neighborhoods aren’t made for that.”
Present chaos
As Deltopia and St. Fratty’s have grown, so have the number of arrests and injuries.
Santa Barbara Sheri ’s O ce Cmdr. Te Slaa called this a “draining” of public resources across the Central Coast, as surrounding areas send mutual aid to help assist local authorities.
“I want to emphasize that this is truly, Deltopia speci cally, is truly a medical emergency event that looks like a law enforcement problem because the amount of medical calls, and the strain on our medical resources in the county is signi cant and overwhelming,” he said.
According to statistics provided by the Santa Barbara County Sheri ’s O ce, this year’s Deltopia, held April 4 to 6, reported 135 emergency medical services contacts, which was a 27 percent increase from 2024’s 106 contacts. Of those contacts, 12 patients were transported directly to hospitals and 57 patients were treated in the EMS tent, with 13 requiring a transfer to the hospital. Most cases involved alcohol intoxication, minor injuries, or anxiety.
“We actually have to have a triage tent
sta ed by ER physicians on-site to deal with the amount of medical calls,” he said, “and that’s because if we don’t, we will completely overrun the medical hospital system countywide and probably tri-county wide by mid-afternoon.”
Law enforcement also issued 485 citations and made 84 arrests, the Sheri ’s O ce reported, compared to 256 citations and 32 arrests in 2024, and 151 citations and 23 arrests in 2023.
“Just to describe what Deltopia is like, we can’t send the ambulances into the area of Del Playa because they can’t drive down the street. It’s too densely crowded with people to send foot teams of medics, paramedics in to addresses to retrieve people who have overdosed or are su ering a medical emergency,” he said.
“ ose paramedics have to be accompanied by law enforcement, because if they’re not, they end up being sometimes assaulted. ey have people interfering with the medical treatment, and so we have to dedicate law enforcement just to protect the paramedics so they can do their job of treating the patient.”
SLO faces similar challenges over St. Fratty’s weekend, said Te Slaa, who helped SLOPD with St. Fratty’s Day enforcement.
PARTY HARDY St. Fratty’s attendees take their job seriously, sporting green and scouting party scenes even in the early mornings of the weekend around St. Patrick’s Day—like these partiers in 2015.
LUCK OF THE SLOCALS The city posted flyers throughout SLO’s downtown streets in early March warning would-be St. Fratty’s Day partiers of double fines for illegal behavior.
PHOTO BY LIBBEY HANSON
CRUISIN’ FOR A BRUISIN’ Two shirtless men ride the Isla Vista streets to Deltopia, one on a bike pulling the other on an office chair.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SKYLER KURTZ
Each March around St. Patrick’s Day, thousands spill into the neighborhoods near Cal Poly and on campus.
e St. Fratty’s celebration started in 2009. In 2015, a roof collapsed with 30 people atop it, sending 10 to the hospital. In 2024, partying students caused damage to multiple structures at Cal Poly, including freshman dorm Muir Hall, which experienced damages so severe that around 300 student residents were evacuated so the school could repair and restore re suppression and alarm systems.
e party peaked with 7,000 attendees in 2024, according to previous New Times reporting—double the attendance from 2023. SLOPD issued 165 citations for open containers, public urination, and climbing utility poles, among others.
is year’s celebration was tamer than last after new policies from SLO and Cal Poly, resulting in about 70 citations.
SLO City Councilmember Jan Marx has been around for both Mardi Gras and St. Fratty’s and said the primary di erence between the two is that St. Fratty’s is illegal and much more di cult for city o cials to manage because it doesn’t have a designated “leader.”
“ ere’s a kind of a group-mind organization,” she said. “Unlike the Mardi Gras, [St. Fratty’s] didn’t have a permit to do it. ey just invade—they just invade the city streets.”
When the roof collapsed in 2015, Marx said neither the city nor police were prepared to handle such an event or crowd.
“Because of the unorganized and unpermitted nature of the event, for the people to receive medical attention was almost impossible,” she said. “Also, the police force was not really geared up to handle the crowd at that time in that the organizers are kind of shadow organizers of St. Fratty’s, but not one person actually steps up and says, ‘I’m organizing it.’”
As a former homeowner in the neighborhood where students swarmed the streets, Marx said such events create a sense of fear for residents as “sneaky” unplanned parties trap people in their homes.
“ ere were thousands of people all of a sudden at this one house that happened to be on the block where my husband and I lived for many years, on Albert Drive, so we couldn’t get out of the driveway. We couldn’t
leave our house,” she said. “ e longer term residents in those areas, or throughout the city—also the police; also the re; also the campus police; also people who work in that area—it just brings everything to a standstill, and then there’s this element of fear and uncertainty, like, what are they going to do? What are all these people going to do? When are they going to leave?”
Party parameters
After years of property damage and medical emergencies, cities, counties, and law enforcement have implemented policies to prevent further chaos and injury.
Santa Barbara Cmdr. Te Slaa said in recent years police have had to rope o the coastal blu s bordering Del Playa Drive to prevent people from falling, per the approval of the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors.
e Sheri ’s O ce also released a safety statement days before Deltopia this past April.
“ e blu s along Isla Vista’s coastline are dangerous, and falls occur nearly every year, sometimes with tragic results. Stay behind all fencing or railings near the edge to avoid injury. e blu s are not a safe place to stand or gather,” it said.
Audible music of any kind is banned in Isla Vista from Friday to Sunday nights when it consists of music or a DJ and more than 250 attendees. Events are shut down immediately if they require paid entry, sell alcohol, or have any people on the roof.
“ at has prevented the parties from growing throughout the night, and that was probably the most signi cant piece of legislation passed to address these issues,” Te Slaa said.
For St. Fratty’s Day weekend this year, Cal Poly and SLO discouraged out-of-towners from showing up and enacted a citywide Safety Enhancement Zone Response Plan ordinance with zero tolerance for party shenanigans. e ordinance increased nes for noise citations from the usual $350 to up to $1,000. Law enforcement issued almost 100 fewer citations than in 2024.
“I think the city and SLOPD did a phenomenal job this year of managing that event as best they can,” Te Slaa said.
According to city records, the additional enforcement, along with the help of neighboring police departments, cost almost
$125,000 for the weekend, as opposed to the $40,000 spent in 2024.
Cal Poly joined e orts to rein in unruly students by hosting its rst ever Morning on the Green musical festival with 5,000 free tickets available to students. On March 15 from 4 to 9 a.m. at the Sports Complex Lower Fields, the festival featured headliner Zhu and special guest Galantis.
According to the university’s “Don’t Test Your Luck” website, Cal Poly said it hoped to provide a space where students could “enjoy music, food, and fun, all while being at a lower risk of harming themselves or violating campus and city laws.”
Cal Poly President Je rey Armstrong called the event a success, even though an additional 1,000 students broke the fencing around the venue and stormed the eld.
According to Cal Poly Assistant Vice President for Communications and Media Relations Matt Lazier, the university spent about $1.2 million—the concert cost $700,000 and the rest went to campus police presence and overtime pay for sta volunteers who manned the concert, university, and dorms, he told New Times via email.
Lazier said the funds didn’t come from student fees. e school primarily spent revenue collected over time from procurement activities like rebates from previous purchases and credit card usage.
“With so many stakeholders on campus and o , a comprehensive review of these e orts will take time—and answers to many speci c questions will come later,” Lazier said. “We are in the process of gathering feedback from those stakeholders, with the aim of providing programming and enforcement next year that improves on this year’s results and continues changing the culture of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in San Luis Obispo into the future.”
Party on?
It’s not like police and city o cials don’t want the community to celebrate, it’s just that the gatherings need to stay under control.
“It’s a challenge because, you know, on
private property, people are allowed to have parties, and we want to encourage and foster people’s First Amendment rights to gather and to express themselves and celebrate, and that’s completely appropriate,” Santa Barbara Sheri ’s O ce Cmdr. Te Slaa said.
SLO City Councilmember Marx said she doesn’t get why St. Fratty’s has reached the scale it has, requiring the city and university to make such e orts and spend so much money. While she understands it’s a First Amendment right, she sees the event as students wanting to overtake the city and not considering the rules and regulations that could keep things in order.
“I’m kind of sad that it seems like the students, student-age people, are more interested in taking over a part of the city,” she said. “I don’t know the purpose of St. Fratty’s Day except dressing up in green and getting drunk early in the morning and being with thousands of people. When I say I don’t know, I’m truly ignorant. So I would love it if someone could educate me about why it’s so much fun.”
Cmdr. Te Slaa said these events seem to have also lost consideration for the city resources it takes to manage such a party, but also the resources it takes away from neighboring places and people in need.
“When you look at its impacts on a macro level, how it impacts county emergency medical services, someone who is having a heart attack in Santa Maria may struggle to get an ambulance because of what’s happening with some people who’ve chosen to overindulge in alcohol in Isla Vista, right?” he said. “And so, that’s something we try to impress upon our population here, is that their actions have signi cant impact throughout the county. It’s a pretty big deal.” And although both SLO and Isla Vista are working to enact stricter policies against unpermitted parties, Te Slaa said they can’t call this a “success” yet.
“I’m never going to call Deltopia a success because its very existence tells us that we haven’t been successful yet, right?” he said. “When nobody shows up for Deltopia, that’s when it’s been a success.” ∆
Reach Sta Writer Libbey Hanson at lhanson@newtimesslo.com.
‘Halloween, for decades, was a major event where people from all over the country would come in and essentially do the same thing [as Deltopia]. They would dress up, and they would party in the streets, and they’d go house to house party-hopping in costume. And it took us decades to get that under control.’
—Garrett Te Slaa, commander, Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office
EARLY START St. Patrick’s Day festivities started as early as 4 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, with revelers traipsing through downtown SLO’s bars.
EDM IN THE A.M. About 6,000 students attended Cal Poly’s first ever Morning on the Green music festival, designed to deter students from partying in the streets on St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
COMPLETE TESTING & REPAIR
Crawfish for a cause
Previously a staple of San Luis Obispo’s vibrant Mardi Gras scene, an annual crawfish feast found new purpose as a fundraising event aimed at supporting the Central Coast Autism Spectrum Center (CCASC).
This year marks the 18th year of McGee’s annual crawfish boil, also known as Crawtism, happening at noon on May 18 at McCarthy’s Irish Pub. According to Michael McGee, putting on this event each year requires that someone drives down to the Los Angeles International Airport to pick up hundreds of pounds of crawfish on the Friday before the feast.
“We bring them up and set up at McCarthy’s Irish Pub and have ourselves a real good time,” McGee said. “They tell us at McCarthy’s that it’s the second-best day they have, after St. Paddy’s Day, of course.”
McGee, who moved to the Central Coast from Louisiana with his wife in 1979, enjoyed participating in the Mardi Gras celebrations in San Luis Obispo until they were shut down by city leaders following the 2004 Mardi Gras riot. Even now, despite the Crawtism boil having nothing to do with Mardi Gras celebrations, McGee said that he wants everyone to “laissez les bon temps rouler,” which translates to “let the good times roll.”
“That’s what happens at the Mardi Gras events, is the good times are rolling,” he said. “We usually get about 200 pounds of crawfish, and we sell them till we run out.”
McGee said that the annual crawfish boil turned into a fundraiser for CCASC when they realized that they would need to find a new cause. CCASC board member Mercedes Meier told New Times that she discovered the organization after her son was diagnosed with autism and offered to coordinate a fundraiser for them in 2007.
“We had our first annual Crawtism, and that was their first fundraiser that they had,” she said. “The organization has grown, and now it does all kinds of events, monthly events for all ages.”
She knew McGee from Mardi Gras previous years’ crawfish boils, noting that she always appreciated his “Louisiana humor and charm.” She said that much like CCASC has grown and evolved over the last several years, so has the annual Crawtism event.
“Obviously, it’s grown in size, but it’s also become a tradition for a lot of locals,” she explained. “I feel like autism awareness has grown and that people understand more about what it is, and understanding in our organization is about being supportive and inclusive and creating all the same opportunities.”
McGee also highlighted that the event has “gotten a lot bigger” since its inception, explaining that the crowds seem to be getting younger.
“We get an awful lot of regulars,” he said. “One of the things that’s really fun is there’s a young group, I don’t know if they’re [Cal] Poly students or what, but they usually make up their own gear for the crawfish boil.”
McGee expressed excitement about this year’s event and explained that he belongs to a local historical service society called E. Clampus Vitus, which will start to take over the coordination of the annual Crawtism event as he “ages out.”
“It’s part of San Luis Obispo’s history and persona now,” he said. “The more the word gets out, the bigger it gets, the more money we can raise for the cause.”
Fast fact
• The San Luis Obispo County Department of Airports partnered with Lucia Mar Unified School District to launch an Aviation Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway at Arroyo Grande High School starting next school year. The program will use the nationally recognized Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Foundation’s “You Can Fly” high school curriculum to offer students a hands-on introduction to aviation careers such as piloting and aerospace engineering. According to press materials, the new program aligns with the Department of Airports’ dedication to supporting STEM education and workforce development efforts in San Luis Obispo County. For more details on the new CTE pathway or the AOPA high school curriculum, contact kristin.anderson@ lmusd.org. ∆
Reach Staff Writer Emma Montalbano at emontalbano@newtimesslo.com.
BOILIN’ FOR BETTER
The annual crawfish boil, according to Michael McGee, features spiced crawfish, potatoes, sausage, corn, onions, and “all sorts of good stuff.” For those who don’t eat seafood, jambalaya’s also on the menu.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL MCGEE
BY JOHN B. ASHBAUGH
Lessons from Bhutan
For the last two weeks, I’ve been breathing the rarefied air of the Himalayas in Nepal and Bhutan, traveling with my friend Don Maruska and hosted by skilled native guides in both countries. We can learn a great deal from these two mountainous nations—especially Bhutan.
Both nations host thriving, newly established representative governments, and their people are committed to democracy and social justice. Nepal as a secular republic, Bhutan as a constitutional monarchy.
Nepal is struggling to deal with massive pollution, the chaos of urbanization, and a messy transition to a boisterous democracy within a pluralistic society. The Kingdom of Bhutan offers a quite different path. Here, there appears to be a national consensus that the monarchy serves as a national symbol of unity and cultural identity.
That culture is clearly visible from the moment one lands at Paro International Airport, where a dazzling, modern facility displays a unique style reminiscent of Switzerland. Crystal-clear rivers flow from the high Himalayas through bucolic rural landscapes surrounded by deep forests. With no large cities—its capital, Thimphu, is less than 150,000—Bhutan’s population clusters mostly in small hamlets distributed along the river courses. Two- and three-story multi-generational houses and small shops all feature the characteristic architectural style. Cows roam freely through the narrow streets.
Everywhere in Bhutan, people welcome us with smiles, and most are dressed in their traditional national attire: For men, a gho, the knee-length, loose-fitting silk wrap-around robe that looks surprisingly good. For women, it’s a kira, a slim-fitting patterned dress and bright-colored jacket. Among themselves, they speak Dzonghka, their unique national language, but English is universal.
With the combined leadership of Bhutan’s royal family as well as its independent political leadership, this nation of fewer than 800,000 is committed to mitigating the devastating impacts of climate change. They’re extremely concerned here about the disproportionate impacts they are facing as global temperatures rise. As their massive glaciers retreat, entire watersheds downstream are at risk of catastrophic failures of fragile rocky moraines that back up huge volumes of meltwater.
Bhutan is mobilizing its resources for this mission to combat climate change, and it’s taken a leadership role on the world stage. It’s become the first nation on the planet to be carbon negative: Almost three-quarters of its land area is forested, providing a key “carbon sink” that offsets its greenhouse gas emissions.
Their Constitution requires that they retain at least 60 percent of their land area as forests; 50 percent of their land is protected in national parks, wildlife refuges, and biological corridors. In its southern province, Bhutan is building an entirely new city,
Gelephu, using Buddhist principles of unity with nature and compassion for all.
These are impressive achievements, considering that the United Nations has just advanced Bhutan from “less-developed nation” status to that of a “developing” nation in December 2023. (Nepal is expected to do the same in 2026).
This dramatic and positive progress by Nepal and Bhutan offers important insights to our own polarized nation. The contrast is clear: Two small nations are proud of their thriving democracies and their commitment to limiting greenhouse gas emissions. In our own country, an erratic demagogue has abandoned all pretense of respect for democracy, the rule of law, and the reality of our climate catastrophe. A recent publication in Bhutan, The Druk Journal, focuses on their national commitment to mitigating climate change—while here in the U.S., the Trump administration squelches any mention of climate change, fires scientists, and cancels renewable energy programs.
Bhutan has the advantage of a relatively homogeneous population in terms of ethnicity and religion (three-quarters of its people are Buddhist). It also has relatively high literacy, two-thirds of the population. As early as the 1970s, Bhutan established happiness as a national goal. and they regularly measure not GNP but “gross national happiness” (GNH).
In the U.S., we set as one of our founding principles that each American has the right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Bhutan is implementing that ideal.
The U.S. has clearly abandoned our historic legacy as “leader of the free world,” except in a distorted commitment to continued and even accelerated consumption of fossil fuels. In Nepal and Bhutan, they’re fully aware that their delicate Himalayan ecosystems make them uniquely vulnerable. In the absence of leadership from the United States on any of these fronts, I urge us look to the example being set by Bhutan. I’m inspired by what they’re doing, and it’s comforting to know that, at least in this corner of the world, there’s a consensus that we must address this existential threat of climate change. ∆
John Ashbaugh wrote this column from Bhutan. Send comments to letters@ newtimesslo.com.
What should be done about the closure of the Sportsmen’s Association range?
43% The Sportsmen’s Association should get its contract renewed.
27% There’s nothing to do until Fish and Wildlife wades through red tape.
Get someone else in there to run it ASAP.
I didn’t even know there was a shooting range around here.
School blues
Iwonder what Cal Poly President Jeffrey Armstrong really thinks about being dragged before the Republican-led hearing “Beyond the Ivy League: Stopping the Spread of Antisemitism on American Campuses” on May 7. Did it accomplish anything?
Chaired by Tim Walberg (R-Michigan), the hearing grilled Armstrong and two other college presidents about their handling of the perceived antisemitism of proPalestine campus protests in the wake of the devastating Gaza war
Like a good little sycophant, Armstrong said all the right things about Cal Poly’s new antisemitism task force and its Jewish climate survey and the development of an action plan, which didn’t stop some Republican committee members from calling all three presidents’ apologies and promises “hollow” and “lip service.” In fact, Congressman Joe Wilson (R-South Carolina) criticized Armstrong for being an “outspoken DEI proponent.”
Ha! We wish. He was obeying in advance and burying his university’s DEI office inside another department before President Donald J. Trump even signed his first bullshit executive order
“I believe that DEI chills and actually restricts and restrains academic freedom. It’s been my view that diversity means no ideological diversity,” Wilson said.
Spoken like a true entitled white man who
doesn’t understand bigotry, prejudice, intolerance, and the systemic racism that pervades every level of American society.
Doublespeak and dystopia are upon us, my fellow Americans. I guess we shouldn’t expect better from Wilson, who began his life of “public service” as a staffer for South Carolina senator and avowed racial segregationist Strom Thurmond. You know, the senator who in 1957 stood for 24 hours and 18 minutes to filibuster against Civil Rights.
So, tell us the truth, Dr. Armstrong. Was this hearing a load of time-wasting hooey?
Speaking of wasting time, how’d you like to spend hours on a school bus to get back and forth to middle school? That’s the situation for Carrisa Plains Elementary students when they reach sixth grade. They get bused into Atascadero middle and high schools, about 50 miles away, and if you’ve ever traveled by school bus with all its various stops, you know it’s a slog.
“Long bus rides take a toll, especially on middle schoolers,” Patty Hermosillo said during public comments at the last Atascadero Unified School District (AUSD) board meeting. One parent said that between school and the bus ride, students were gone 55 hours a week!
The Carissa school used to be K-8, and
many parents are lobbying the AUSD to expand the school again so their children can avoid the interminable bus ride. According to district Superintendent Tom Butler, that ain’t gonna happen anytime soon.
Let’s bright-side this, baby. Carrisa Plains middle schoolers can continue to score some extra Zs as they get bused into A-Town. Maybe they won’t fall asleep in math class! Oh, who am I kidding? Zzzz.
Speaking of bright sides, party-poopers unite. This week’s cover story outlines law enforcement’s misguided approach (in my opinion!) to student parties like St. Fratty’s Day in SLO and Deltopia in Santa Barbara. Hey, nobody likes property damage or public endangerment (well, except anarchists), but sometimes people need to get a little wild. Instead of trying to squelch people’s inherent need for community and intoxication, we should find a safer way to facilitate it.
I’m not sure Cal Poly’s Morning on the Green music festival to manage St. Fratty’s— that cost $1.2 million to produce and was overrun by an extra 1,000 students beyond the planned 5,000 attendees—is the best way, but at least the school tried something new instead of doing the same thing: overenforcement. Part of the problem is ignorance.
“I don’t know the purpose of St. Fratty’s Day except dressing up in green and getting drunk early in the morning and being with thousands of people,” SLO City Councilmember Jan Marx lamented. “When I say I don’t know, I’m truly ignorant.
So I would love it if someone could educate me about why it’s so much fun.”
Well, OK! It seems someone has forgotten what it’s like to be young and frisky. Adolescent risk-taking, anyone? Flirting? Destressing from the challenges of college? Peer pressure? Fostering a sense of belonging? Getting high? Good grief, Jan. Have you never just cut loose?
And Mardi Gras riot? Can we stop calling the 2004 parade the “Mardi Gras riot”? When you try to disperse 30,000 revelers out of the downtown immediately after a parade but have no place for them to go, they’re going to get pissed and resist. This “riot” could have been easily avoided if city authorities had provided a way for the crowds to disperse organically. Think about the Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Parade It’s Santa Barbara County’s largest event with crowds of up to 100,000 people, and the parade travels nine blocks before ending in Alameda Park where there are vendors and live music. People can hang out and continue to revel or go home when they’re ready. Mardi Gras should have ended at Mitchell Park with a festival, duh!
“Now I gotta cut loose, footloose, kick off the Sunday shoes. Please, Louise, pull me off of my knees. Jack, get back, come on before we crack. Lose your blues. Everybody cut footloose.”
The Shredder has rollers. Spin it across the dance floor at shredder@ newtimesslo.com.
Hot Dates
ARTS
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY
Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint. com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.
COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. (559) 799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.
DEATHTRAP From By The Sea Productions. Visit site for more info. Through May 18 bytheseaproductions. org/. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.
FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER JACK
MCNEAL McNeal’s sea-inspired photography highlights his lifelong passion for exploration and the sea, from his wanderings from Highland Park to the Central Coast and beyond. Through May 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FEATURED SCULPTURE ARTIST JARI
DE HAM Gallery at Marina Square features Jari de Ham’s Chinese brush paintings and sculptures. Since 2002, this artist has mastered painting birds, flowers, calligraphy, and more. Through May 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery
at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.
FRESH! NEW WORK IN FINE CRAFT Join the artist’s reception and enjoy the exhibit, which will be on display until the end of June. May 18 2-4 p.m. Free. (805)772-2524. centralcoastartistcollective.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay. GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS PHOTOGRAPHER KERRY
DRAGER Morro Bay photographer Kerry Drager’s work will be on display. An accomplished author and educator, Drager captures inspiring sights with vivid light in camera. Through May 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. ongoing (805) 772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com. SELF DISCOVERY THROUGH NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY Join renowned wildflower photographer, author, and speaker Doris Lance to explore local flowering habitats to photograph with depth and creativity. May 17 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $125. (805) 927-8190. cambriaarts. org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.
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
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.
BUTTERFLY GLASS SHARD CLASS
Create a 5” x 5” clear sun catcher or slump into a single layer dish, inspired by the “paint-by-number” technique. This class is perfect for detailed-oriented folks. May 20 12-2 p.m. $60. (805) 464-2633. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, Atascadero, glassheadstudio.com.
DEPRISE BRESCIA ART GALLERY:
ONGOING DISPLAYS Features a large selection of encaustic art, sculpted paintings, art installations, acrylic palette knife paintings, digital art, glass, jewelry, stones, fossils, and a butterfly sculpture garden. ongoing DepriseBrescia.com. Deprise Brescia Art Gallery, 829 10th St., Paso Robles, (310) 621-7543.
FLOURISHING FELINE KIDS ART CLASS
Join Meagan for a detailed tutorial to create an adorable floral kitty. This event is for ages 3 years and older.
May 17, 1-2 p.m. $25. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.
HIKE AMONG THE FLOWERS
Join botanist Mark Skinner as he guides hikers along the Oso Flaco trail on Saturday, May 24, from 9 a.m. to noon. Information about blooming wildflowers, plant communities, and the surrounding landscape’s history will be covered. Visit dunescenter.org to purchase tickets and get additional details.
—Angie
MACRAME AND WINE WORKSHOP
Bring your friends for a night of macrame and wine. Your ticket includes a plant pot, materials to create a plant hanger, and wine. May 17 6-8 p.m. $45. (805) 2389800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.
SEWING MACHINE BASICS Learn to thread your machine, wind a bobbin, and stitch accurate seams. You’ll leave class with a finished project. May 18 12:30-3:30 p.m. $65. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org/events/sewingmachine-basics/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.
SHIBORI-INSPIRED SUSHI SET Create a Shibori-inspired fused glass Sushi Set using glass with pre-fired designs. The set will include a 7” x 11” sushi serving tray and two 3.5” dipping bowls. Get more info at the link. May 24 , 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $225. (805) 464-2633. glassheadstudio. com. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, Atascadero.
SILVERSMITHING WORKSHOPS APRIL AND MAY Learn to silversmith during workshops hosted at Golden State Goods. Two different levels, Basics and Stone Setting, will support all participants. All materials will be provided. May 18 $95$110. (805) 464-2564. goldenstategoods. com/workshops. Golden State Goods, 5880 Traffic Way, Atascadero.
STUDIOS ON THE PARK: CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS Check site for a variety of classes and workshops offered. ongoing studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles, (805) 238-9800.
TAKE A SPIN: TWO-HOUR WHEEL
CLASS These two hour blocks provide an opportunity to learn the basics of wheel throwing. Instructors will center your clay for you, so you will have the opportunity to
make two items. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon $72. (805) 203-0335. thepotteryatascadero. com/wheelclasses. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.
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. Third Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m.
Unnamed Atascadero location, Contact host for details, Atascadero.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus exposure to Los Angeles talent agents. All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge. com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/baby-handprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CREATIVITY DAYS WITH THE SILK ARTISTS OF CALIFORNIA CENTRAL
COAST An opportunity to work on your own projects and materials while picking up new skills among friends. Note: this event is held mostly every third Monday (attendees are asked to call or email to confirm ahead of time). Third Monday of every month $5; first session free. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 747-4200.
CUESTA COLLEGE’S ANNUAL STUDENT
ART EXHIBIT A showcase to highlight students’ ceramics, drawings, digital art, photography, and other media. Registration to submit works runs through April 4. Through May 16 cuesta. edu. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-3202.
CUESTA DRAMA PRESENTS: TREASURE ISLAND Watch as Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of murder, money, and mutiny is brought to life onstage in this new adaptation. May 15 7:30 p.m., May 16 , 7:30 p.m., May 17 7:30 p.m. and May 18 , 2 p.m. $27 general; $20 student with ID. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
I HATE HAMLET In Paul Rudnick’s dramatic comedy, when television star Andrew Rally moves back to New York and finds himself cast as Hamlet, nothing seems right. Thursdays-Sundays, 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through May 18 $20-$37. slorep.org. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 786-2440.
IMPROV COMEDY SHOWS AT THE HUB The show contents will be rotated among the group’s ensemble, house, and musical improv team casts, as well as stand-up and student shows. Fourth Friday of every month, 6 p.m. my805tix. com/. The Hub, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
MEET AND GREET ART PARTY Join this art party, with unique, colorful mixed media originals, as well as prints and hand-built, multi-glazed pottery pieces. All are welcome. May 16 4-6 p.m. Free. (805) 710-3090. COUCH POTATO, 595 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo, HomesonCentralCoast.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. OPERA SAN LUIS OBISPO PRESENTS THE WIZARD OF OZ Hear the songs from the 1939 film performed live by OperaSLO’s Grand Orchestra and a large chorus during this show, which features an acclaimed cast, expansive sets, dance, and more. May 17 2 p.m. and May 18 , 2 p.m. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, 756-4849, pacslo.org.
Stevens
PHOTO COURTESY OF KEN FIGLIOLI
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MAY 16-25
THURSDAY,
Vineyards,
SPRINGTIME FUSED GLASS CLASS Join our Executive Director, Janine Stillman, to create a beautiful fused-glass panel for your garden, which can be displayed in a metal stand. May 17, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $65. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO SHOW On display now through mid-April. ongoing slogallery.com/. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BROADWAY NOW AND THEN Celebrating the Studio’s 25 years in business, Broadway Now and Then will include a variety of numbers from Broadway shows. Support the drama production class and guests. Get tickets at the link. May 16 , 7 p.m., May 17 7 p.m. and May 18 2 p.m. $15. my805tix.com. The Studio of Performing Arts, 835 West Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
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.
EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA
The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its monthly meeting. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 15 Free. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
THE FORBIDDEN PARALLEL: BOOK AND ALBUM LAUNCH An evening of words and music with debut author and musician Kevin Carver. RSVPs encouraged, as space is limited. May 24 6-9 p.m. Free. (805) 710-2282. kevincarver. com. Banner Coffee Company, 995 E. Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande.
LESS MISERABLE A spoof of one of the most beloved musicals of all time. Through June 14 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
MASTER HIGHLIGHTING EVENT This local gallery on the corner of Cypress and Stimson is hosting a Master Highlighting Event during Memorial Day weekend. Come in and watch Thomas Kinkade’s Master Highlighter add highlights to make the artwork come to life. May 24 -25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. (805) 773-9424. Thomas Kinkade Showcase by the Sea, 500 Cypress, S-5, Pismo Beach, kinkadecentralcoast.com.
MOANA JR. Set sail with Judkins and Mesa Theater, in partnership with Na
Mele O Ke Kai, for Disney’s music-filled adventure full of heart, humor, and more. May 16 7-9 p.m. and May 17 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. General admission $17; student/ child $12. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter. org/shows/moana-jr/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
TRILOGY CLAY BUDDIES SPRING
POTTERY SALE Come find unique handmade pottery, including functional ware, yard art, sculptures, and home decor. Check or cash are preferred for purchases. May 17 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. The Monarch Club at Trilogy Monarch Dunes, 1645 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo.
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.
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
RENT Set in the East Village of NYC, this acclaimed musical follows young musicians and artists trying to create amidst the height of AIDS/HIV. Through May 25, 7 p.m. $20. my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BREATHE AND STRETCH One must be able to get down onto the floor and back up again, with ease, in order to participate in this 55-minute session. It’s specifically designed to enhance mobility and strength. Please bring a mat and some water. Mondays, 9-10 a.m. $10 per session. (415) 516-5214. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos. CENTRAL COAST SLIM DOWN Take control of food without suffering. Learn a step-by-step process to take control of overeating, cravings, and feel peace with food. Build the habits, mindset, and your unique path with results that stick. Hosted byTami Cruz (Certified Health/Life Coach) and Dana Charvet (Coach/Fitness Trainer). ongoing Call for pricing info. (805) 235-7978. gratefulbodyhealthcoaching.com.
Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. 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
SPRING PICNIC
Head to Chamisal Vineyards on Orcutt Road in SLO for TalentDreams’ second annual Spring Picnic and Music in the Vineyard on Saturday, May 17, from 1 to 5 p.m. Hear music by SLO singer and guitarist Ben Hein, and grab grub from Auten Boys BBQ. Get tickets at my805tix.com. For more information about the family-friendly event, visit talentdreams.org. —A.S.
and experienced welcome. Instructor with 50 years experience. For info, call 805-215-8806. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278, morro-bay.ca.us.
CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS
MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom). For information, call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654.
ENJOY AXE THROWING Enjoy the art of axe throwing in a safe and fun environment. Kids ages 10 and older are welcome with an adult. No personal axes please. Fridays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. $20. (805) 528-4880. baysidemartialarts.com. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.
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.
LIVING HERBAL SPA EXPERIENCE
Relax and release during this holistic spa experience, where you will be treated to facial masks, a herbal foot soak, tea, and community connection. Get more info at the link. May 23 $55. my805tix.com. Gaia’s Garden & Apothecary, 875 Main St Ste. C, Morro Bay.
RETURN TO CENTER: A BREATH
JOURNEY THROUGH THE ARC OF TRANSFORMATION This circle is a space to reset, reconnect, and breathe deeply with intention. Whether you’re new to breathwork or simply ready to return to center, join the group. May 22 5:30-7 p.m. $20 donation suggested. (805) 235-7978. gratefulbodyhealthcoaching.com. Health With Integrity, 80 North Ocean, Cayucos. ROOTS AND RESONANCE SOUND
JOURNEY / LOS OSOS Enjoy a nourishing experience that harnesses the transformational power of sound vibrations, breath work, mindfulness, and intention. Get more info to this immersive experience at the link. May 18 , 4:30-6:30 p.m. $24. my805tix.com. Central Coast Body Therapy Center, 2005 9th St., Los Osos, (805) 709-2227.
SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP Have a topic, book, or article you wish to discuss with interested and interesting people? Join this weekly meeting to discuss it, or simply contribute your experiences and knowledge. Contact Mark Plater for instructions on entering the Chapel area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon (805) 528-7111. Coalesce Garden Chapel, 845 Main St., Morro Bay.
WATERFRONT MARKET MORRO BAY
KICK OFF WEEKEND Head to the Waterfront Market for its 7th summer season in Morro Bay. The craft event will showcases over 30 local vendors from SLO County. May 24 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and May 25 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 402-9437. Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
ART IN THE GARDEN Join for an outdoor experience at the The Educated Gardener, showcasing local artists’ paintings, prints, and mixed media. This is a free, kid friendly event. May 25 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. The Educated Gardener, 22210 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita, (805) 550-1658.
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.
THE FLYING COWBOYS
(805) 434-9605. ttrtennis.com/fitness/ yoga/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.
CAPS BINGO BASH Join for an afternoon of bingo, food, prizes, and fun for all ages. Proceeds will fund teacher grants to enrich education for Atascadero students. May 18 , 1:30-5 p.m. capsatascadero.betterworld.org. Zoo Garden Event Center at Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero, (805) 470-3178.
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.
HIIT 45 WITH SARA JORGENSEN A dynamic and fun way to improve strength and cardiovascular conditioning using weights, resistance bands, and body weight. Bring a yoga mat and water. Thursdays, 9:30-10:15 a.m. and Mondays, 5:30-6:15 p.m. $15 for members; $25 for guests. (805) 434-9605. ttrtennis.com/ fitness/fitness-classes/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.
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.
SANTA LUCIA ROCKHOUNDS MEETING
Bring your favorite rock, gem, crystal, fossil, etc., to show the rest of the club. Third Monday of every month, 7 p.m. slrockhounds.org/. Templeton Community Center, 601 S. Main St., Templeton.
TOPS SUPPORT GROUP: WEIGHT LOSS AND MAINTENANCE A self-help support group focusing on weight loss and maintenance. Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. (805) 242-2421. tops.org. Santa Margarita Senior Center, 2210 H St., Santa Margarita.
TOPS TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY Join for affordable and effective weight-loss support. Sundays, 10-11 a.m. through Oct. 31 First visit is free. (805) 234-1026. Rancho Del Bordo Clubhouse, 10025 El Camino Real, Atascadero, tops.org.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
2025 SPRING FOLK-N-SOAK: MUSIC, HOT SPRINGS, YOGA, CAMPING
REUNION Enjoy music each day from Christopher Hawley, along with a selection of other artists, while soaking in 100-degree mineral water, and camping under the stars. Get more info at the link. May 16 , 4 p.m.-midnight, May 17 noon-midnight and May 18 , 12-6 p.m. $35. my805tix.com. Franklin Hot Springs, 3015 Creston Rd., Paso Robles.
WALK AND SUPPORT
Support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and advocate for mental health during the Out of the Darkness Campus Walk on Cal Poly’s campus on Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event will be held at the University Union Plaza; to register or get additional details, visit afsp.org.
org/events/. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
EXPLORATION OF BIRDS AND BOTANY AT THE BOTANICAL GARDEN The SLO Botanical Garden, in collaboration with the Morro Coast Audubon Society, presents a bird walk exploring the unique relationship between birds and botany. May 18 9-11 a.m. $20. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., 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, 2-3 p.m. and Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Free. (657) 465-9182. missionsanluisobispo. org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
FROM CELLS TO STORMS: THE HIDDEN ORDER OF CHAOS THEORY WITH PAUL GREILING Join Dr. Greiling as he introduces the Chaos Theory, which is the science of how the universe’s complexity stems from simple rules repeated over and over. Get more information about the event at the link. May 15 1-3 p.m. $12. my805tix.com. Oddfellows Hall, 520 Dana Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-0876.
PUBLIC WORKS NIGHT AT THE DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS’ MARKET
AERIAL SILKS CLINIC Silks is a great way to learn flipping safely. Build memory, strength, coordination, confidence, and endurance at this Aerial Silks Clinic, for ages 7 to 17 years old. May 17 1-3 p.m. $25. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo. com/saturday-event-clinics. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.
CLIMATE ACTION GATHERING: HOW WE ROLL In honor of Bike Month, explore SLO’s diverse bike culture with SLO Climate Coalition. May 20 5:30 p.m. Free. (805)704-1549. sloclimatecoalition.
GALA PRIDE AND DIVERSITY CENTER BOARD MEETING (VIA ZOOM) Monthly meeting of the Gala Pride and Diversity Center Board of Directors. Meets virtually via Zoom and is open to members of the public. Visit galacc.org/events to fill out the form to request meeting access. Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. No admission fee. galacc.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
MOONLIGHT HOURS AT THE SLO
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Come to the San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum for free every third Thursday of the month. Third Thursday of every month, 5-7 p.m. Free admission. (805) 545-5874. slocm.org/ moonlight-hours. San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum, 1010 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
OUT THERE: A NATIONAL PARKS STORY
(FILM SCREENING) Support our parks at this upcoming event. Join CCSPA’s screening of Out There: A National Parks Story, with live music, a Park Market, and a discussion panel. May 23 5-8 p.m. $20. (805) 5480391. centralcoastparks.org/ccspa-filmscreening-event/. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
PARKOUR CLINIC Come flip with flair in a safe, nurturing environment at this Parkour Clinic, for ages 7 to 17 years old. May 17 1-3 p.m. $25. (805) 5471496. performanceathleticsslo.com/ saturday-event-clinics. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
Staff from the City of San Luis Obispo, neighboring cities, and adjacent public works organizations will be at the Thursday Farmers’ Market with informative displays and equipment. May 15 6-8 p.m. downtownslo.com/do/ public-works-night-at-the-downtownslo-farmers-market. San Luis Obispo Farmers Market, Broad and Higuera, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-0286. THE SAN LUIS OBISPO OUT OF THE DARKNESS WALK Join for this annual community walk to raise awareness and fund the fight against suicide. Visit site for more info. May 17, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. afsp.org. Cal Poly University Union Plaza, Mustang Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 756-1281. SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets at the SLO Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors are welcome. Third Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. Stamp Collector? The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets in the SLO UMC Conference Room on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors welcome. For more info, contact SLOPS at slostampclub@gmail.com. Third Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. (805) 801-9112. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, slocity.org/seniors. SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN MONTHLY GET-TOGETHERS SLO RAMs is a group of retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Third Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $31 luncheon. retiredactivemen.org/. Madonna Inn Garden Room, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo. TEACH WELL Teach Well teachers get support and learn strategies for building trusting student relationships. Get more information about the event at the link. May 15 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. (805) 7701593. youthwell.org/groups. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. WITCH’S RETREAT Join this transformative day-long retreat, “where ancient wisdom meets modern witchcraft.” There will be healing rituals, powerful workshops, and a special emphasis on connection with nature. Get tickets and more info at the link. May 25 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $125. my805tix.com. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY 17TH ANNUAL VINTAGE TRAILER RALLY Join for the Vintage Trailer Rally, featuring beautifully restored travel trailers and motorhomes. Tour these nostalgic treasures and shop the swap meet. May 17, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Pismo Coast Village RV
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 19
Resort, 165 S Dolliver St., Pismo Beach, (805) 773-5649.
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.
FREE FIVE CITIES REPAIR CAFÉ Handy volunteers are available to fix broken bikes, small appliances, electronics, computers, tablets, smart phones, game consoles, clothing, outdoor gear and apparel. May 17 1-4:30 p.m. Free. (650) 367-6780. repaircafe5cities.org. Oceano CSD, 1655 Front St., Oceano.
FREE MOVIE NIGHT IN THE SECRET
GARDEN: A GOOFY MOVIE Grab your favorite ‘90s outfit and head to Sycamore Springs’ Secret Garden for a movie under the stars. RSVP at the link. May 23 , 8 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, (805) 595-7302.
INGREDIENT PROFILE FORUM:
OLIVE OIL The event will cover history, etymology, import, export, production, crop value, processing, store pricing, and recipe sharing. An RSVP is required. May 24 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 878-7982. instagram. com/mypassionismyfood?utm_ source=ig_web_button_share_ sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.
LITTLE RANGER PROGRAM: BIRDS OF PISMO STATE BEACH Join for a bird-tastic adventure. Enjoy fun stations and a walk around the lagoon to see what birds can be spotted. This program is for ages 3 to 7. RSVP at the number provided. May 25 10-11 a.m. Free. (805) 474-2664. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.
MOVIE NIGHT ON THE ROCKS: LILO & STITCH (2002) Enjoy this family-friendly movie night. RSVP at the link. May 25 , 7:45 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach, (805) 773-5000.
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.
SHAKE RATTLE N ROLL SENIOR PROM Head to the prom and join in on the ‘50s to ‘60s best dressed and karaoke contest. RSVP by calling the number provided. May 17, 2-5 p.m. Free. (805) 819-9329. Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St., Nipomo. SOUTH COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY CEMETERY TOUR The tour, led by Historical Society President and author Jim Gregory, includes pioneers and immigrants, war heroes, a tragic murder victim, and a few eccentrics. May 25 2-3 p.m. Free. (805) 489-8282. southcountyhistory.org. Arroyo Grande District Cemetery, 895 El Camino Real, Arroyo Grande.
TALENTDREAMS 2ND ANNUAL SPRING PICNIC AND MUSIC HOSTED BY CHAMISAL VINEYARDS Enjoy this familyfriendly event, that will include a bounce house, Auten Boys BBQ, a wine raffle, and live music from Ben Hein Music. Get more info at the link. May 17 1-5 p.m. $24. my805tix.com. Malene Scene Airstream, 7767 Orcutt Road, Arroyo Grande.
TOUR OF GROVER BEACH Dress up your bikes for a parade from City Hall to 16th St. Park. All ages and skill levels are welcome. May 17 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. (805) 473-4580. City of Grover Beach, 154 S 8th St., Grover Beach, groverbeach.org.
WILDFLOWER HIKE AT OSO FLACO
Botanist Mark Skinner will be guiding a hike from the Oso Flaco Lake Trailhead to learn about plant communities, native wildflowers, and the landscape’s history. Get more info at the link. May 24 , 9 a.m.-noon $5-$10. (805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org. Oso Flaco Lake, 3098 Oso Flaco Lake Road, Arroyo Grande.
FOOD & DRINK
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
ANNUAL SPRING TEA PARTY Sip, savor, and celebrate spring in a charming garden setting at Cambria Pines Lodge. Get tickets and more info at the link. May 18 12:30-3 p.m. $69. (805) 924-3353. cambriapineslodge.com/events/onsite. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.
BREAKFAST ON THE BAY A monthly occasion that brings together the passionate citizens and business owners of the greater Estero Bay region in one place to deepen connections and share information. Breakfast is included with
ticket price. Third Wednesday of every month, 7:30-9 a.m. $20 per member; $25 per non-member. (805) 772-4467. morrochamber.org. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay.
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.
WINEMAKER’S DINNER FEATURING
CUTRUZZOLA VINEYARDS Join in welcoming Cutruzzola Vineyards for a signature wine dinner event. Get more info at the link. May 25 , 5:30-8 p.m. $130. (805) 924-3353. cambriapineslodge.com/ events/onsite. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.
WOOD-FIRED PIZZA NIGHTS Join every Friday for an unforgettable evening of fun, food, and festivities at the Pizza Nook at Cambria Pines Lodge. Fridays, 4-7 p.m. through June 27 (805) 924-3353. cambriapineslodge.com/events/onsite. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
‘90S MUSIC TRIVIA NIGHT AT
DRACAENA WINES Dust off your flannel and get ready to pump up the jam because Dracaena Wines is throwing a ‘90s music trivia night. Visit the link for more information. May 21 , 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 270-3327. dracaenawines.com. Dracaena Wines, 1244 Pine Street, suite 101 B, Paso Robles.
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.
KUKKULA HIKE AND WINE TASTING AT THE PICNIC AREA Join for a Kukkula hike and wine tasting to explore vineyards, enjoy views, and taste wine. May 18 , 9-11 a.m. $50. (805) 227-0111. kukkulawine. orderport.net. Kukkula Winery, 9515 Chimney Rock Rd, Paso Robles.
MEMORIAL WEEKEND BBQ Enjoy Parrish
Family Vineyard’s estate wines with a special barbecue for Memorial Weekend. Reservations are recommended for this busy day. May 24 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m. BBQ $35 per person. (805) 286-4028. exploretock. com. Parrish Family Vineyard, 3590 Adelaida 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.
TASTE OF TIN CITY WALKING TOUR
Enjoy the first ever walking tour of Tin City – an industrial area just outside of downtown Paso Robles – that is home to a community of innovative and passionate producers of high-quality wines, spirits, beer, and more. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $125. (805) 400-3141. toasttours.com/tour/ tin-city-walking-tour/. Toast Tours, 1722 Stillwater Ct, Paso Robles.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.
HEAD GAMES TRIVIA NIGHT Live multi-media trivia every Wednesday. Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to six players. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. headgamestrivia.com. Antigua Brewing, 1009 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 242-1167.
Send event information to events@newtimesslo.com or submit online.
QUEER TRIVIA Sip some cider, test your LGBTQ trivia knowledge, and learn new fun facts. Topic themes and hosts rotate each week. Prizes for winners. BYO food. Third Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 292-1500. Two Broads Ciderworks, 3427 Roberto Ct., suite 130, San Luis Obispo, twobroadscider.com.
SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
TRIVIA NIGHT Reservations are no longer required to play. Reservations are now for teams who want to guarantee a table to play. Tables available first come, first serve. Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. my805tix.com. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT PUB TRIVIA Bring your thinking cap as questions vary from pop culture, geography, to sports. There is a little for everyone. Prizes for the winning teams. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 439-2529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
CHOCOLATE DE VINE Chocolate de Vine benefits Standing Together to End Sexual Assault, founded in 1974 to support survivors of sexual assault. May 17 4-7:30 p.m. $125. chocolatedevine.org. Saint Barbara Events Center, 1205 San Antonio Creek Road, Santa Barbara, (805) 683-4492. ∆
Arts
Color that packs a wallop
Cambria’s The Patrick Gallery (815 Main St., suite C) hosts guest artist Sue Averell on Saturday, May 17, through Saturday, June 7.
Titled Garden of Urban Delights, the show includes “Sue’s deliciously rich urban landscapes … filled with stunning details and textures,” according to the gallery. “She frequently paints variations of Bay Area scenes as well as extraordinary florals and three-dimensional works. Her exhibit … will also feature scenes of Cambria’s iconic coast.”
Averell, who was born in Ohio but grew up in Southern California, owns Gallery Sausalito.
She’s also maintained a studio in Northern California since moving there in 1997. In 2007, she co-founded the Industrial Center Building Artists Association. The art studio-filled building has hosted annual events for more than 40 years.
Her impressionistic work is bursting with color and texture, and viewers will note brushstroke inspiration by the likes of Van Gogh and expansive cityscape compositions with a real sense of depth.
Live music and refreshments will be provided at an open-tothe-public reception on Saturday, May 17 (5 to 8 p.m.).
Morro Bay illuminati
Art Center Morro Bay (835 Main St.) presents the Morro Bay Art Association members-only show MBAA Illuminations May 15 through June 23 in the Main Gallery, with an artists’ reception on Sunday, May 18 (2 to 4 p.m.).
“Reflections and Shadows: We see them in a mirror, a pond, or a puddle,” MBAA announced.
“It could be your face, the light from the sky, or the silhouette of a scene shining on a surface. Illuminations is an MBAA members-only exhibition which dives into the study of light and the ways it reveals, transforms, and inspires. Whether through literal depictions of light sources or metaphorical interpretations of enlightenment and clarity, this exhibit encourages creativity in showcasing how illumination can shift perspectives and bring hidden aspects of life into focus. From radiant bursts of color to subtle shadows, artists are called to interpret how light shapes our world and evokes emotions, o ering unique insights into the interplay between light and darkness.”
The Morro Bay Art Association formed on Sept. 17, 1951, when a handful of Morro Bay residents met to discuss the creation of an artist guild. The group became official with 17 founding members, presenting their first exhibition from a member’s home in 1952. ∆ Glen Starkey
BY GLEN STARKEY
The art of divorce
Local graphic novelist Kane Lynch releases Reel Life
Sixth grader Galen Murphy’s life is about to get upended. One of his friends, Kyle, has suddenly turned mean, and worse still, his parents announce they’re separating. Galen and his other friend, Luna, decide to make a documentary lm about his parents’ divorce. Will Galen’s “reel” life help him process his “real” life? So goes the premise of Kane Lynch’s debut Scholastic publication, Reel Life, coming out on May 20.
Lynch grew up in San Luis Obispo and experienced his own parents’ divorce, and his semi-autobiographical book explores the myriad emotions and complications divorced families go through.
Galen’s dad, Paul, has an a air and strikes up a relationship with the much younger Jasmine. Galen’s mom, Roberta, is devastated, but she eventually nds a new relationship with Mike, whose daughter Autumn brings new di culties into Galen’s family dynamics.
“ e ‘family’ story is more autobiographical than the ‘kid’ story,” Lynch explained. “I wanted to capture my family’s speci c quirky dynamic, how my experience wasn’t really like any divorce story I’d seen in movies or TV. e storyline with the kids is more of a classic ‘composite characters’ situation. Me and my friends were always doing creative projects together, and our personal drama often dovetailed with our artistic output.
“But there’s no one real ‘Kyle’ or ‘Luna,’ even if every one of my childhood friends will probably think one or the other is based on them. In both cases, I felt like a ctional framework was the best way to re ect the authentic emotional experience of what really happened—I wanted to make my characters talk to each other, and to do that, I had to have license to imagine scenes and conversations.”
Lynch’s book promises to help young readers dealing with their parents’ divorce understand
Meet the artist
Graphic novelist and cartoonist Kane Lynch releases his debut Scholastic graphic novel, Reel Life, at a launch party at the SLO Library (995 Palm St.) on Saturday, May 24, starting at 1 p.m. He’ll read from Reel Life, engage in a Q-and-A, and sign copies. Preorder at kanelynch.com. Lynch will also offer a series of cartooning workshops at the county’s libraries in July. Visit cartooningwithkane.com for a complete schedule.
IMAGE COURTESY OF SCHOLASTIC AND KANE LYNCH
that they’re not alone and maybe help them process their feelings.
Lynch, 38, has had a lifelong love a air with comics and cartooning, beginning in the fourth grade. He created comics for the SLO High School newspaper, graduated in 2004, then attended UC Santa Cruz, where his interests “vacillated between comics and lm.” He took a job as a video editor in the Bay Area, but comics were always his passion.
Scholastic is as big as those guys. It’s just a di erent demographic.”
When he got laid o , he decided to go all-in on his dream, moving to a “2,000-person town in Vermont” to earn his Master of Fine Arts from e Center for Cartoon Studies in 2016. He eventually found his way back to SLO in 2023. Along the way, he became a professional cartoonist and educator whose non ction comics and illustrations have appeared on e Nib, Slate, and Psychology Today, and in the graphic novel Guantanamo Voices (Abrams Books, 2020). Reel Life is his rst graphic novel designed for kids.
In the book, Galen’s dad, a yoga instructor, meets Jasmine at a yoga retreat. Lynch describes Galen’s dad as a “positive person who wants everyone to have a good time and is sort of unaware of the repercussions of his actions. He’s a little bit of a jock, but a hippie jock.”
Lynch felt it was important to explore the topic of divorce from a kid’s perspective and explore a kid’s emotional response and ways of processing their situation.
Lynch’s novel does a spectacular job at character development—of both kids and adults—who act and feel like real people. Galen’s friend Kyle is angry his parents are divorcing, and he handles it much di erently than Galen. Luna’s parents would never divorce, but that doesn’t stop them from ghting, which pains her. Slightly older Autumn, the daughter of Galen’s mom’s new boyfriend, has her own divorce-related issues to deal with and lashes out in a hurtful way.
Send gallery, stage, and cultrual festivities to arts@newtimesslo.com.
“I wanted to do some version of this for years, and I didn’t originally think of it as a book for kids,” he explained. “Most of my other professional work so far has not been for kids. But this story, it’s something that happened to me when I was a kid, and for whatever reason, my memories of that time are very vivid. I felt I could tap into that.”
Scholastic is gearing the book for 8- to 12-yearolds, which Lynch calls “a huge age for graphic novels.”
“ e majority of graphic novels sold are for kids that age, and Scholastic is the biggest publisher,” he said. “Someone asked me, ‘Would you kill to work for DC or Marvel?’ I would be happy to, sure, but
“When you’re a kid and your parents are ghting, you don’t process it like an adult, ‘Well, mom had some good points but also dad had some good points.’ No, you just think, ‘Oh God, they’re yelling,’” Lynch said. “As a kid is navigating this, I wanted there to be some inner kid con ict too. Fundamentally the way humans treat each other and build relationships and have problems with those relationships—that’s something that can happen when you’re 11 or when you’re 45. “ ere are some things that are funny about how kids deal with things, including not being aware that the family issues are why they’re acting the way they are, which is especially true with Autumn and Kyle but probably true of all of these. ey don’t have the tools to resolve their con icts.
“ e adult characters are all versions of me to some degree now that I’ve been these ages,” Lynch continued. “Hey, what’s it like to be 26 and move to a new place? What’s it like to be in your late 30s and question your life choices? I feel connected to all of them, and I feel like the adult characters are as big a part of it as the kid characters. I hope that people of all ages will read it.” ∆
Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.
KANE IS ABLE Graphic novelist and cartoonist Kane Lynch, here with his cat P-Nut, will engage in a Q-and-A and sign copies of his new book Reel Life on May 24 in the SLO Library.
COURTESY PHOTO BY EMILY PARISH
LOCAL SCENES In Reel Life, graphic novelist Kane Lynch brings SLO Town to cartoon life, in a story about divorce.
JUDGE IT Children’s book publisher Scholastic releases Reel Life on May 20, with story and drawings by Kane Lynch and color by Maddie Sackett.
IMAGE COURTESY OF SCHOLASTIC AND KANE LYNCH
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Pride Winning Images
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Music
BY GLEN STARKEY
Soul, man
R&B singer-songwriter Allen Stone lifts you higher
Allen Stone is truly self-made. His 2010 debut, Last to Speak, was self-released and sold mostly via the internet. He road-dogged it hard, crisscrossing the country playing everywhere he could. His career really took off when he was signed to ATO and released his self-titled 2012 album. Today, he continues to tour relentlessly. Over that grueling schedule, he’s managed to record five full-length records, get married, and have a couple of kids.
On Thursday, May 22, Stone will play the Fremont Theater (doors at 7, show at 8 p.m.; all ages; $58.68 at prekindle.com), touring in support of his new EP, Mystery.
“First of all, I’ve never released an EP. It’s always been full length for me,” Stone explained during a Zoom call. “Usually, I start with 50 songs and whittle it down to the 10 to 12 that sort of raise their hand, and then the rest of them just sort of die a lonely death on a hard drive in my studio.
“The songs for the Mystery EP were tunes that I really loved but didn’t seem to connect, or work or playlist very well with the other tunes that were kind of raising their hands,” Stone continued. “They sort of lived off in this little island that was very R&B. There was some funk in there, and the other stuff that I was writing was maybe a little bit more of that Nashville soul kind of vibe.
“So we put them all together and it was like, yeah, it feels kind of like a mystery how these tunes came to be and where they’re gonna live, but we got them out into the world, and it seems like people are really enjoying them, which is always a wonderful, wonderful thing.”
Like a lot of R&B and soul singers, Stone grew up singing in the church—his father was a preacher. He started college at the Moody Bible Institute, but he ultimately decided the church was not The Truth. Still, people really see spirituality in his music.
In “Sweet Little Rainbows” off the Mystery EP, he sings, “Bubbly clouds/ Come and float down/ Rest your essence/ On this sacred ground/ Beautiful water/ Flowing for free/ I’m at your altar/ Come baptize me// What a joy it is to fall into your presence/ Lift my
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 JOHN DENVER
AND CASS ELLIOT Performers will include Jeffrey Pine, Deborah McHenry, Jason Lopez, The InVocations, Ann-Marita, Marina V, Mike Berman, and Mark & Sherie. Get tickets and more info at the link. May 18, 2-5 p.m. $25. (805) 204-6821. songwritersatplay.com/events. Moonstone Cellars, 812 Cornwall St, Cambria.
KELLYTOWN LIVE Enjoy a night of Irish pub songs and fiddle tunes, from Kelly
voice so I can call and give you blessing.”
The religious language—sacred ground, your altar, baptize me, give you a blessing—is undeniable.
“It’s a song about exalting Mother Nature,” Stone explained. “That’s why I wrote it. It’s a song that’s giving thanks and sending exaltation to earth and the natural world around us. And so, you know, in in a sense, it’s a divine song, a little bit, you know, praise.”
Stone thinks people who grew up singing in the church—whether they’ve remained religious or not—continue to search for that elation of singing upward.
“You know, it doesn’t need to be God,” he said. “It’s just like a unified voice toward a positive deity, or divinity, let’s call it. You could find that at a Slayer show, like everybody’s there, unified upward, you know, toward a positive experience.”
Powers, Val Powers, Duane Inglish, Phil Curnow and Andy O‘Kulikowski. A selection of food and drink will be available for purchase. May 24 7-9 p.m. Free. The Savory Palette (formerly Morro Bay Wine Seller), 601 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, savorypalette.com.
LISTENING AS RITUAL Group listening sessions with musician/musicologist Ben Gerstein. Explore remarkable recordings of world music, nature field recording, western classical and contemporary, and jazz, sharing and discussing inspiration and perspectives on the expressive power of peoples, cultures, animals and habitats through sonic experience. Every other Monday, 7-8:15 p.m. $10-$15 donation. (805) 305-1229. leftcoastartstudio.com/. Left Coast Art Studio, 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos. OPEN MIC NIGHT Each Wednesday, enjoy this Open Mic Night in the
EIGHTIES VIBE Burley Thistles has a new single, “Trouble,” and a show at The Siren on May 16
When he plays the Fremont Theater, you can expect to hear songs from the new EP as well as material from his catalog. He says he’s excited about his opening act, Nashville singer-songwriter Jade Jackson, who grew up in Santa Margarita.
“Man, we got a killer opener,” he said. “I don’t know how we got her to open for us. She could sell out that venue by herself.”
To me, Stone has a Michael Franti vibe‚ super positive, socially conscious, and very inclusive. His music uplifts.
“The show is super fun—a wonderful experience for audiences because it’s very welcoming,” he said. “If you look out into the audience, there’s not one type of person. It’s not the same age or ethnicity. It’s across the board, young, old, Black, white, green, yellow. It’s such a diverse community of people who connect with the music. I think one of the coolest things I’ve experienced with my career is connecting with such a wide variety of human beings.”
Sort of like “Sweet little rainbows/ Sweet little rain/ Fly through my window/ Bring your colors to frame.”
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.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
ALLI WALKER AT RAVA WINES Country singer-songwriter Alli Walker is set to hit the stage and deliver a night of live music. Get tickets and more info at the link. May 17, 7:30-9 p.m. $34. my805tix.com. Rava Wines + Events, 6785 Creston Rd., Paso Robles, (805) 238-7282.
DINNER AND SHOW SERIES FEATURING
JAMES OTTO Hear two-time Grammy nominee singer-songwriter James Otto perform live. Get tickets now for an evening of country music and food. May 24 6:30 p.m. $30. my805tix.com. Blast and Brew, 7935 San Luis Ave., Atascadero.
EASTON EVERETT LIVE Singersongwriter Easton Everett is set to blend indie folk, neo-folk, and world beat with intricate fingerstyle guitar during his live performance at Sun Outdoors Paso Robles. May 23 5-7 p.m. Sun Outdoors Paso Robles, 3800 Golden Hill Road, Paso Robles, (805) 242-4700. Easton Everett is a singer-songwriter who blends indie folk, neo-folk, and world beat with intricate fingerstyle guitar. Hear him live at Midnight Cellars. May 24 1-3 p.m. Midnight Cellars, 2925 Anderson Road, Paso Robles, (805) 239-8904.
FOREVER GREEN AT BIANCHI Forever Green will be playing their unique soft-rock fusion of acoustic-electronic original tunes and fun covers at Bianchi Winery and Tasting Room. May 23, 12-3 p.m. Free. facebook.com/events/1041959171135455. Bianchi Winery and Tasting Room, 3380 Branch Road, Paso Robles, (805) 226-9922.
Here comes “Trouble”
Burley Thistles , one of singersongwriter Easton Everett’s three working bands, just released a killer new single, and to celebrate they have a show at The Siren on Friday, May 16 (8 to 10:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; free).
“Though not intended, the song plays to the societal unease that surrounds us these days,” Everett explained. It’s an upbeat burner with elements of ska, pop, and new wave.
“I don’t know world today, got no faith in what the leaders say. Feather in the corn’s getting hard to find through a garden gate in the tides of time. Leaders got to lead something, anyone who’ll listen probably climb your tree. Reached out now got turned away a misunderstanding all around the world. Trouble everywhere, trouble everywhere, trouble everywhere well there’s trouble,” Everett sings.
Vina rising
Vina Robles Amphitheatre kicks off its concert season with Chris Isaak on Friday,
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.
KELLYTOWN LIVE Dance to Irish pub songs, fiddle tunes, polkas, and sea shanties, while enjoying plenty of food and drink. Get more info at the link. May 23 , 6-9 p.m. Blast and Brew, 7935 San Luis Ave., Atascadero.
MUSIC AT SENSORIO WITH SUNNY AND THE WRIGHT TONES Join Jake Odell, Dylan Johnson, Daryl Vandruff, and Vocalist Sunny Wright at Sensorio for live jazz, blues, and soul. May 16, 6:30-9:30 p.m. $35-$65. (805) 226-4287. sensoriopaso.com/. Sensorio, 4380 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles.
MUSIC AT SENSORIO WITH SUNNY WRIGHT AND TOM BEHTKE Join for live jazz, blues, and soul with Sunny Wright and Tom Bethke. A full bar, along with dining options, fire pit tables, a taco truck, and games will be available. May 16 , 6:30-9:30 p.m. and May 22 , 6:30-9:30 p.m. $35-$65. (805) 226-4287. sensoriopaso. com. Sensorio, 4380 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles.
OPEN MIC NIGHT Hosted by The Journals 805 (John and Dylan Krause). Mondays, 9 p.m. Pine Street Saloon, 1234 Pine St., Paso Robles.
REBEL HEART AT ATASCADERO’S BLAST AND BREW Join for an ultimate country-rock bash featuring Rebel Heart. Known for their modern country hits and vocals, they will have audience members dancing and singing along. Get tickets and more information at the link. May 16 , LIVE MUSIC continued page 26
BUBBLY Good Vibez presents soul and R&B singer-songwriter Allen Stone on May 22 , at the Fremont Theater.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GOOD VIBEZ
STARKEY continued page 26
PHOTO COURTESY OF BURLEY THISTLES
Save the date!
showcase date Fri., nov. 7, 2025 Song Entry July 17-Aug. 4, 2025
scan for the latest details
Flavor
Intimate affair
Chef Zoe Van Gundy offers private catering services and whips up house-made pies at SLO
Colleagues of chef Zoe Van Gundy of San Luis Obispo are excited to witness her rising star on the Central Coast culinary scene.
“Her cuisine [is] always high quality and elegantly presented,” said Charlie Puffer, owner of Puffers of Pismo and Van Gundy’s former employer.
In the past, Puffer hired Van Gundy for catering gigs at his Pismo Beach wine bar and live music venue as well as for off-site events. He also recommends her catering services to his customers and receives stellar feedback.
“I would work with her again at any opportunity and will continue to recommend her,” he said.
Van Gundy has also impressed Tabitha Stewart, general manager of SLO Ranch Market, where Gundy currently serves as assistant manager of the deli.
All of her food is delicious, Stewart said, but her “pies are the star of our dessert case.”
“Her key lime pie is a stunner and a customer favorite,” she added. “I encourage anyone in the market for a pie to treat themselves to one of Zoe’s. They are homemade with love and baked to perfection.”
Van Gundy, armed with a degree from Boulder, Colorado-based Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and nearly two decades of hospitality experience at local establishments, including Woodstock’s Pizza and Black Sheep Bar & Grill, launched her catering firm Zoe’s Table in 2020 and has steadily grown her client base.
With three daughters ages 12 to 15, juggling mom and breadwinner roles has been challenging, but Van Gundy is a self-described “overachiever,” and food is her lifelong passion.
“I was born and raised in Davis, California, number six of nine children,” she said. “I learned early to cook dinner for a large
Ranch Market
Table talk
For in-home catering services, grazing tables for events, or to reserve house-made pies for pickup at SLO Ranch Market in San Luis Obispo, message chef Zoe Van Gundy of Zoe’s Table on Instagram @zoes_table_slo or text (805) 903-2258. For more information, visit zoestableslo.com.
MEALS MATTER Chef Zoe Van Gundy of Zoe’s Table aims to create memorable dining experiences for clients throughout San Luis
number of people, and we ate dinner together as a family every single night of my entire childhood.”
Van Gundy attended college at CSU Long Beach and studied voice, her secondary forte. The classically trained soprano and guitarist performs locally, including at Avila Lighthouse Suites and SLO Ranch Farms & Marketplace.
contacting owner Zoe Van Gundy.
Zoe’s Perfect Pie Crust
Yields 1 pie crust
1 cup all-purpose flour
5 tablespoons cold butter
3 tablespoons ice water
Up to 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (depending on the pie, sometimes a sweet crust is preferred)
Pinch of kosher salt
Cut the butter into half-inch cubes. Add all the dry ingredients to a food processor and pulse once or twice. Add butter, mixing until the flour becomes a cornmeal consistency. Move the flour/butter mixture to a mixing bowl. Add ice water slowly and incorporate with your hands until a pliable dough is created. Too much water will cause it to be sticky. Just add a little flour to your hands if that’s the case. Roll into a compact ball and chill for two hours in the fridge.
For baking, roll out the pie dough on a lightly floured surface. Form into a pie pan. There are a lot of different crimping methods that can make a beautiful crust. Once you have the edges you like, chill the crust before baking or it will lose its shape—about 15 minutes in the freezer or two hours in the fridge will do the trick. Enjoy with your favorite pie filling, such as banana cream pie.
She also studied music in Florence, Italy, one of Europe’s culinary epicenters, which reignited her love of food and cooking.
She moved to San Luis Obispo in 2006 and fully immersed herself in the food and beverage scene, leading kitchen and bar programs, teaching cooking classes, and ultimately founding Zoe’s Table.
Her business offers in-home and smallvenue catering services for up to 20 guests, as well as charcuterie grazing tables for larger crowds.
Her side pie venture kicked off after joining SLO Ranch Market in late 2024. Pies are available whole or by the slice and vary seasonally, with chocolate cream, banana cream, and key lime being her most popular flavors. Fresh strawberry, however, just hit the lineup and could possibly overtake the trio.
Market customers can purchase the pies on-site or order ahead, while catering clients are also welcome to cap off their functions with her trademark desserts.
Eventually, Van Gundy sees Zoe’s Table evolving or expanding into a “supper and sleep.”
“It’s a term I coined a couple of years ago that fits what I’d like to do much better than a bed and breakfast,” she said.
“[I] would love to have animals, like chickens for eggs, goats and cows for milk and cheese, and a small garden for hyperlocal produce,” she said. “It would be perfect for group getaways, small business conferences, bridal parties, bachelor and bachelorette events, etc. We could do all meals or just a few so they can go out and enjoy the many amazing restaurants we have here on the Central Coast.
“I’d love to be able to open something like that or at least close to it within the next five years.”
In the meantime, Van Gundy is content to create one-of-a-kind, intimate dining experiences for clients throughout SLO and Northern Santa Barbara counties.
“I love feeding people, and creating art with my hands is incredibly fulfilling,” she said. “But the biggest thing I’ve really learned over the years is that hospitality as a whole is my vocation. … I love to take care of people and be part of the events I cook for.
“It’s why I keep my events on the smaller side, and part of the charm of hiring me is that I am involved with the clients and their guests during the event, always keeping the energy high and bubbly and fun.” ∆
vinaigrette.
Her dream scenario is a quaint inn, with perhaps five to 10 rooms, “where we offer farm-to-table dinners as part of your stay.”
Flavor Writer Cherish Whyte can’t wait to book Zoe’s future “supper and sleep.” In the meantime, she’ll be devouring her key lime pie at cwhyte@newtimesslo.com.
KALE KICKOFF Chef Zoe Van Gundy of Zoe’s Table works with clients on menu development. A past multi-course dinner included kale salad jazzed up with goat cheese, bacon, sunflower seeds, and citrus
CITRUS STUNNER Key lime joins a variety of Zoe’s Table pies available whole or by the slice every weekend at SLO Ranch Market. The pies sell out but can be reserved ahead of time by
PHOTO COURTESY OF ZOE’S TABLE
GRAZE FOR DAYS Zoe’s Table offers multicourse, family-style, and buffet meals for up to 20 guests in private homes or small venues as well as charcuterie grazing tables for larger events.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ZOE’S TABLE
Obispo and Northern Santa Barbara counties.
COURTESY PHOTO BY NIKKELS PHOTOGRAPHY
2016 CHEVY CRUZE LT
1.4
2011 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LTD SUV
5.7 Hemi, V8, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, nav, pseats, lthr, xlnt servicing,126k. #647948 $10,988
2012 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE OVERLAND 4WD
5.7 V8, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, whte, tan lthr, 20” prem whls, panroof, 113k, 2pseat. #239354 $11,988
2013 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 4X4 LAREDO
3.6 V6, at, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm, 2pseats, charcoal, gray lthr, prem whls. #507302 $11,988
2015 DODGE CHALLENGER
3.6 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, pseat, orange, blk prem whls, new tires, rear spoiler, 87k. #714470 $16,988
3.6 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, red, blk cloth, winch, rboards. #218752 $16,988
3.6 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/ fm cd, prem whls, off
CAYUCOS SANITARY DISTRICT: NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE REPORT RELATIVE TO DELINQUENT SEWER CHARGES AND/OR MANDATORY SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL CHARGES
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on June 19, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. the Cayucos Sanitary District will hold a public hearing before the Board of Directors, at which time the Board shall hear and consider objections or protests to a report listing each parcel of property with sewer and/ or solid waste charges that were at least three months delinquent as of May 1, 2025. Said report will be on file at the Cayucos Sanitary District office and available for review upon request.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that on June 20, 2025 the Administrative Services Manager of the Cayucos Sanitary District will cause to be filed and authorize submittal of said report to the SLO County Tax Collector’s Office, who will collect the debt on behalf of the Cayucos Sanitary District by adding the amount owed to the property owner’s property tax bill.
Any questions regarding the report or the hearing may be directed to the Administrative Services Manager, Amy Lessi,
NOTICE REQUESTING PROPOSALS FOR BANKING SERVICES FIN-BS-01
The City of San Luis Obispo is requesting proposals for banking services pursuant to specification No. FIN-BS-01.
All firms interested in receiving further correspondence regarding this Request for Proposals (RFP) will be required to complete a free registration using BidNet Direct (www.bidnetdirect.com/).
All proposals must be received via BidNet Direct by June 4, 2025, at 3 p.m., when they will then be opened electronically via BidNet Direct on the proposal end date and time.
The preferred method for bid submission is electronic via BidNet Direct. However, if you wish to submit
a paper copy, please submit it in a sealed envelope plainly marked “Proposal for Banking Services,” to the Department of Finance, at 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401, at or before 3pm on [DATE]
Project packages and additional information may be obtained at the City’s BidNet Direct website at www.BidNetDirect.com For technical help with BidNet Direct please contact BidNet Direct tech support at 800-835-4603. May 15, 2025
NOTICE OF INTERNET PUBLIC AUCTION OF TAX-DEFAULTED PROPERTY FOR DELINQUENT TAXES ON MAY 30 – JUNE 2, 2025 (Revenue and Taxation Code Sections 3692 and 3702)
On February 25, 2025, I, James W. Hamilton, San Luis Obispo County Tax Collector, was authorized by the Board of Supervisors of San Luis Obispo County, California, to conduct an Internet Public Auction of properties that have had delinquent taxes for five years or more. The tax-defaulted properties listed below are subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell. Notice of the Internet Public Auction has been given to the California State Controller.
The Internet Public Auction will commence at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025, and will continue until approximately 9:00 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025. The sale will be held through the Tax Collector’s website at: www.slocountytax.org, under “Public Auction of Tax-Defaulted Property.” For bidders without access to the Internet, a computer will be available in the Tax Collector’s Office at 1055 Monterey Street, Room D-290, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, California, during regular business hours. Public access to computers is also available in the County Public Library at 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California.
The properties will be sold to the highest bidder for cash in lawful money of the United States (payable at close of the Internet Auction on June 2, 2025), for not less than the minimum bid as shown on this notice. Cashier’s checks and electronic fund transfers will be accepted for payment. Bidder registration will be through Bid4Assets, which is accessible through the Tax Collector’s website. The right of redemption (paying the prior year taxes) will cease at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 29, 2025, or when the first bid is received on a subject property, whichever is later. Properties that are not redeemed prior to 5:00 p.m. on May 29, 2025, will be offered for sale.
If a property is not sold at the Internet Public Auction, the right of redemption re-instates up until the close of business on the last day prior to the next scheduled sale.
If the properties are sold, parties of interest, as defined in California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 4675, have a right to file a claim with the County for any excess proceeds from the sale. Excess proceeds are the amount of the highest bid in excess of $150 after the liens and costs of the sale are paid from the sale price. Notice will be given to parties of interest, pursuant to law, if excess proceeds result from the sale.
Additional information about the Internet Public Auction may be obtained by contacting the Redemption Division of the Tax Collector’s Office at 1055 Monterey St., Room D-290, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93408, or by calling the Redemption Division at (805) 781-5836.
The properties listed in this notice are situated in San Luis Obispo County, California. The Internet Public Auction sale of the properties was approved by the Board of Supervisors. The list of properties approved for sale is also posted on the Tax Collector’s website, which will be updated weekly.
Assessment Numbering System Explanation
The assessment number, when used to describe properties in this list, refers to the Assessor’s map book, the map page, or the block on the map (if applicable), and to the individual parcel number on the map page or in the block.
The Assessor’s parcel maps and further explanation of the assessment numbering system are available in the Assessor’s Office, 1055 Monterey Street, Room D-360, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, California.
Assessee Min. Bid
013,181,005 BKS Cambria LLC $502,500.00
015,144,019 Ogden Delores M Tre Etal $23,100.00
022,083,031 Stern Richard A Tre Etal $18,900.00
059,481,001 Eberly Dan H Tre Etal
I certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed at San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California, on May 1, 2025.
/s/ James W. Hamilton, CPA, San Luis Obispo County Tax Collector
Published in New Times on May 1, May 8, and May 15, 2025.
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, May 29, 2025 for performing work as follows:
LITTER REMOVAL SERVICES
The City of Pismo Beach is requesting proposals from a qualified firm to provide litter removal and cleanup services throughout the City of Pismo Beach.
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
May 8 & 15, 2025
NOTICE OF SEALED BID SALE ON MAY 28, 2025 OF TAX-DEFAULTED PROPERTY FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
(Revenue and Taxation Code Sections 3692 and 3702)
On February 25, 2025, I, James W. Hamilton, San Luis Obispo County Tax Collector, was authorized by the Board of Supervisors of San Luis Obispo County, California, to conduct a Sealed Bid Sale of properties that have had delinquent taxes for five years or more, but are not usable due to their size, location or other conditions. The tax-defaulted properties listed below are subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell. Owners of property that is contiguous to the listed properties qualify as eligible bidders. Notice of the Sealed Bid Sale has been given to the California State Controller.
I will publicly open the sealed bids submitted and sell the properties at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in the Board Chambers on the first floor of the County Government Center, at 1055 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, California. The properties will be sold to the highest bidder among the eligible bidders, for not less than the minimum bid as shown on this notice.
The properties that are the subject of this notice are situated in San Luis Obispo County, California. The following is a list of properties that were approved by the Board of Supervisors for sale at this Sealed Bid Sale.
The right of redemption will cease at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Properties that are redeemed (prior year taxes paid) by May 27, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. will not be sold. Properties not redeemed by that time will be offered for sale.
If a parcel is not sold at the Sealed Bid Sale, the right of redemption re-instates up until the close of business on the last day prior to the next scheduled sale.
If the properties are sold, parties of interest, as defined in California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 4675, have a right to file a claim with the County for any excess proceeds from the sale. Excess proceeds are the amount of the highest bid in excess of $150 after the liens and costs of the sale are paid from the sale price. Notice will be given to parties of interest, pursuant to law, if excess proceeds result from the sale.
Additional information about the Sealed Bid Sale may be obtained by contacting the Redemption Division of the Tax Collector’s Office at 1055 Monterey Street, Room D-290, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93408, or by calling the Redemption Division at (805) 781-5836.
Assessment Numbering System Explanation
The assessment number refers to the Assessor’s map book, the map page, or the block on the map (if applicable), and to the individual parcel number on the map page or in the block.
The Assessor’s parcel maps and further explanation of the assessment numbering system are available in the Assessor’s Office, 1055 Monterey Street, Room D-360, San Luis Obispo, California.
007,252,013
I certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed at San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California, on May 1, 2025. /s/ James W. Hamilton, CPA, San Luis Obispo County Tax Collector
and May 15,
OF
NO. 1158
Notice is hereby given that at its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 6:00 PM, the City Council of the City of El Paso de Robles adopted Ordinance No. 1158, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EL PASO DE ROBLES AMENDING TITLE 8 (ANIMAL CONTROL) OF THE EL PASO DE ROBLES MUNICIPAL CODE TO UPDATE EXISTING ANIMAL CONTROL REGULATIONS AND ADOPT BY REFERENCE TITLE 9 (ANIMALS) OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY CODE WITH CERTAIN CHANGES AND AMENDMENTS THERETO AND FINDING THE ACTION NOT SUBJECT TO CEQA
Amending Title 8 of the El Paso de Robles Municipal Code to incorporate by reference Title 9 of the San Luis Obispo County Code to ensure alignment with regional animal control standards and maintain the Division’s jurisdiction for services within the City while tailoring certain provisions to address the specific needs of the City, as set forth in the proposed Ordinance, Exhibit A, including amendments addressing licensing requirements, public safety standards, and enforcement measures.
Ordinance No. 1158 was adopted by the City Council by the following unanimous vote:
AYES: Gregory, Strong, Bausch, Beal, Hamon
The Ordinance will take effect thirty (30) days after adoption, as provided by Government Code section 36937.
The above summary is a brief description of the subject matter contained in the text of the Ordinance, which has been prepared pursuant to Government Code Section 36933. This summary does not include or describe every provision of the Ordinance and should not be relied upon as a substitute for the full text of the Ordinance. Copies of the full text of the Ordinance are posted in the City Clerk’s office at 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, California or on the City’s website at www.prcity.com
Date: May 15, 2025
Melissa Boyer City Clerk
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 1159
Notice is hereby given that at its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 6:00 PM, the City Council of the City of El Paso de Robles will hold a Public Hearing concerning adoption of Ordinance No. 1159, An Ordinance Of The City Of El Paso De Robles Acting as the Legislative Body of City Of Paso Robles Community Facilities District No. 2022-1N (Olsen/South Chandler Ranch – Facilities), Levying Special Taxes
The following is a summary of the Ordinance:
Authorizes and levies special taxes within Improvement Areas 1, 3, and 5 of the CFD pursuant to California Government Code Sections 53328, 53338 and 53340, at the respective rates and in accordance with the Amended and Restated RMAs, included as exhibits to the ordinance. The special taxes for Improvement Areas 1, 3, and 5 of CFD will commence in Fiscal Year 2025-26, and in each fiscal year thereafter, pursuant to the Amended and Restated RMAs, as applicable, until payment in full of any bonds issued by Improvement Areas 1,3, and 5 of the CFD (the “Bonds”), payment of all costs of the facilities to be paid with such funds, and payment of all costs of administering the Community Facilities District, provided that the special taxes shall not be levied after Fiscal Year 2073-74.
Authorizes and directs Council each year to determine the specific special tax rate and amount to be levied for the next ensuing fiscal year for each parcel of real property within Improvement Areas 1, 3, and 5 of the CFD, in the manner and as provided in the Amended and Restated RMAs.
Properties or entities of the State, federal or local governments shall be exempt from any levy of the special taxes, to the extent set forth in the Amended and Restated RMAs. In no event shall the special taxes to be levied on any parcel within Improvement Areas 1, 3, and 5 of the CFD be in excess of the maximum tax specified in the Amended and Restated RMAs.
All of the collections of the special tax for Improvement Areas 1,3, and 5 of the CFD shall be used as provided for in the Act, the Amended and Restated RMAs, and in the Resolution of Formation of the Community Facilities District adopted on August 2, 2022, including, but not limited to, the payment of principal and interest on the Bonds, the replenishment of the reserve fund for any such Bonds, the payment of the costs of the public facilities for Improvement Areas 1,3, and 5 of the CFD, the payment of the costs of City in administering the Community Facilities District and the costs of collecting and administering the special taxes levied in the CFD.
The above summary is a brief description of the subject matter contained in the text of the Ordinance, which has been prepared pursuant to Government Code Section 36933. This summary does not include or describe every provision of the Ordinance and should not be relied upon as a substitute for the full text of the Ordinance. Copies of the full text of the Ordinance are posted and available in the City Clerk’s office at 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, California or on the City’s website at www.prcity.com
Date: May 15, 2025
Melissa Boyer, City Clerk
NOTICE IS HEREBY
Project
Applicant: Christian Mercado Location: 639 Creston Road / Assessor’s Parcel Number 009-424-025
CEQA
Hearing
The public has the
to
in
or to participate remotely. To participate
residents
the meeting at www.prcity.com/youtube, and call (805)865-7276 to provide live public comment via telephone. The phone line will open just prior to the start of the meeting. Written public comments can be submitted via email to planning@ prcity.com or US Mail (submit early) to the Community Development
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Paso Robles Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing to consider the following project: NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING
building will include 23,765 square feet that is distributed over 3 occupied floors, with the 4th floor being used to house mechanical equipment only (P25-0040 / PD 25-07).
Applicant: Vinubhai Patel
Location: 211 Alexa Court / Assessor’s Parcel Number 009-831-021
CEQA Determination: No subsequent environmental review is necessary because the refile would not result in any significant environmental impacts not considered in the approved Negative Declaration (ND). There is no substantial evidence in the record suggesting any of the criteria set forth in State CEQA Guidelines section 15162 is met, and accordingly, no subsequent environmental review is necessary.
Hearing Date: The Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on May 27, at 6:30 p.m in the Council Chamber/Library Conference Center, 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446
The public has the option to attend the meeting in person or to participate remotely.
residents
livestream
, and call (805)865-7276
the
of the
Written public comments can be submitted via email to planning@ prcity.com or US Mail (submit early) to the Community Development Department, 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446 provided that the comments are received prior to the time of the public hearing. Comments received prior to 12:00 noon on the day of the meeting will be posted as an addendum to the agenda. If submitting written comments, please note the agenda item by number or name. Comments on the proposed application must be received prior to the time of the hearing to be considered by the Planning Commission. Challenge to the application in court will be limited to issues raised at the public hearings or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing. Copies of the project staff report will be available for review on the City’s website (www.prcity.com/meetings) on the Friday preceding the hearing. If you have any questions, please
INVITATION TO BID (SUB BIDS ONLY)
ONLY)
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: MAINO CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INCORPORATED
PROJECT NAME: CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC STATE UNIVERSITY SAN LUIS OBISPO BUILDING 02 AND 03 OCOB CLASSROOM AND OFFICE RENOVATIONS
PROJECT LOCATION: BLDG. 03 & 03 - CAL POLY STATE UNIVERSITY, SLO, CA 93407
PROJECT OWNER: TRUSTEES OF THE CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY
ARCHITECT: CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC STATE UNIVERSITY
BID DATE & TIME: THURSDAY, MAY 29, 2025 @ 12:00 P.M.
PRE-BID SITE REVIEW: MANDATORY – FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025 @ 8:00 AM
ESTIMATE/BUDGET: $250,000
ANTICIPATED SCHEDULE: 2 MONTHS START DATE: JUNE 23, 2025
COMPLETION: AUGUST 29, 2025
(CONTRACTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR OVERTIME AND WEEKEND WORK ANTICIPATED TO MEET PROJECT SCHEDULE)
NOTICE REQUESTING PROPOSALS / QUALIFICATIONS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING
SLO-ADM-IF-01
The City of San Luis Obispo is requesting sealed proposals for consulting services associated with infrastructure financing related to housing development.
All firms interested in receiving further correspondence regarding this Request for Proposals (RFP) will be required to complete a free registration using BidNet Direct (www.bidnetdirect.com/).
All proposals must be received via BidNet Direct by May 30, 2025, at 3 p.m., when they will then be opened electronically via BidNet Direct on the proposal end date and time. The preferred method for bid submission is electronic via BidNet Direct. However, if you wish to submit a paper copy, please submit it in a sealed envelope plainly marked “Proposal for Technology Consulting Services,” to the Department of Finance, at 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401, at or before 3pm on [DATE]
SCOPE OF WORK:
This project involves the demolition of existing finishes and flooring, skim coating of drywall for finishes, drywall and metal stud framing, acoustical wall treatments, window tinting, new LVT flooring and top set base, new window shades, new Koroseal white board wall covering, new wall guards.
The University will be performing the following trades: Electrical and Data, Painting, Audio and Visual Equipment.
BIDS SHALL BE EMAILED TO: sonnys@mainoslo.com
BID REQUIREMENTS:
1. Subcontractors must be bondable and may be required to provide Payment and Performance Bonds.
2. Bid Bond is not required.
3. Safety Record is of the utmost importance. Subcontractors with aggregate EMR Rate of 1.5 over the past three years may be disqualified.
4. Prevailing Wage
TO VIEW PLANS/SPEC:
Plans and specs may be downloaded from ASAP Reprographics at www.asapplanroom.com Plans and specs may also be viewed at the following Builders Exchanges:
- SLO County Builders Exchange – www.slocbe.com
- Santa Maria Valley Contractors Association – www.smvca.org
- Central California Builders Exchange – www.cencalbx.com
Maino Construction Company, Incorporated is an equal opportunity Contractor. It is the responsibility of each Subcontractor to view all pertinent information and documents prior to submitting a proposal.
May 15, 2025
NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the availability of the following document:
Initial Study / Proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Judicial Council of California (Judicial Council) New San Luis Obispo Courthouse Project (Project)
The Judicial Council proposes to demolish existing buildings at 1144 Monterey Street and 969 Toro Street and construct and operate a new courthouse on a 1.43acre property at the corner of Monterey Street and Toro Street in the city of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California. In accordance with procedures set forth in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Judicial Council has completed an Initial Study (IS) and determined that a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) is required for this Project. The Judicial Council is the lead agency for the preparation of the IS/MND. In accordance with Section 15105 of CEQA, the written public review period for the MND commences on Thursday, May 15, 2025, and ends at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, June 13, 2025. Written comments will be accepted until the conclusion of the public comment period on Friday, June 13, 2025, and should be directed to the attention of Kim Bobic, Senior Project Manager; Judicial Council of California, Facilities Services; 455 Golden Gate Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102-3688. E-mail: Kim.Bobic-T@jud.ca.gov
The Judicial Council will hold a public meeting on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the following location: Ludwick Community Center Assembly Room, 864 Santa Rosa Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. Information related to the IS/MND, including an overview of the Project, environmental analysis, and how to review and comment on the MND, will be provided at the meeting.
The IS/MND, including appendices, is available for review at the Judicial Council office by scheduled appointment at the address listed above during business hours (Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) and at the San Luis Obispo Library at 955 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93403 during regular business hours (varies by weekday). The IS/MND can also be reviewed online at: https://courts.ca.gov/facilities/san-luis-obispo-countynew-san-luis-obispo-courthouse
May 15, 2025
March 2025 PERCENT CHANGE
Notice Inviting Bids for Chemicals for Water and Wastewater Treatment Specification No. 2025-26
The City of San Luis Obispo is inviting bids for the supply and delivery of chemicals for the Water Treatment Plant, Water Resource Recovery Facility, and the Swim Center pursuant to Specification No. 2022-23. All interested bidders must register on BidNet www.bidnet.com
Bids must be submitted on the City’s BidNet site by 2 pm on June 2, 2025, when they will be opened electronically. Proposals received after said time may not be considered. Proposals shall be submitted using the forms provided in the specification package.
All chemicals shall be “FREIGHT ON BOARD,” delivered to 1990 Stenner Creek Road, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93405 (Water Treatment Plant), 35 Prado Road (Water Resource Recovery Facility), or 900 Southwood Dr (Swim Center) San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401.
All chemicals will be in accordance with applicable American Water Works Association standards and the attached specifications. Estimated quantities are listed on the attached Invitation for Bids.
Special Note: All chemicals consigned to Stenner Creek Road address (Water Treatment Plant) must be accompanied by a certification of compliance with the specifications of the American National Sanitation Foundation Standard 60 concerning drinking water additives
The preferred method for bid submission is electronic via BidNet Direct. However, if you wish to submit a paper copy, please submit it in a sealed envelope plainly marked “Chemicals Bid 2025”” to the Department of Finance, at 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401, at or before 2pm on June 2, 2025.
Project packages and additional information may be obtained at the City’s BidNet Direct website at www.BidNetDirect.com
For technical help with BidNet Direct please contact BidNet Direct tech support at 800-835-4603. Microsoft Teams Need help? Join the meeting now Meeting ID: 240 078 512 169 Passcode: He2Lf6Hb Dial in by phone +1 209-645-4165, 723176412# Find a local number Phone conference ID: 723 176 412#
For organizers: Meeting options | Reset dial-in PIN May 15, 2025
Project packages and additional information may be obtained at the City’s BidNet Direct website at www.BidNetDirect.com For technical help with BidNet Direct please contact BidNet Direct tech support at 800-835-4603. May 15, 2025
NOTICE OF AGREEMENT TO PURCHASE TAX-DEFAULTED PROPERTY
Chapter 8 Agreement Sale #266
(Revenue and Taxation Code Section 3797 and 3798)
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT, in accordance with the provisions of Division 1, Part 6, Chapter 8 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code and the written authorization and approval of the California State Controller, an agreement has been made between the Board of Supervisors of San Luis Obispo County and the County of San Luis Obispo, Real Property Services.
A copy of the agreement is on file in the Office of the County Clerk-Recorder. Pursuant to the terms set forth in the agreements, the undersigned Tax Collector will sell to the County of San Luis Obispo, Real Property Services, the real property described in the agreement and in this notice. All property named in the agreement is subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell.
Unless the properties are sooner redeemed, said agreement will become effective not less than 21 days after the date of the first publication of this notice as required by law. The effective time and date of sale is 8:00 a.m., on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
If redemption of the property is not made according to law by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, the right of redemption will cease. Information regarding the amount necessary to redeem the property may be obtained by contacting the Redemption Division of the Tax Collector’s Office at 1055 Monterey St., Room D-290, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93408, or by calling the Redemption Division at (805) 781-5836.
If the properties are sold, parties of interest, as defined in Section 4675 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code, have a right to file with the County a claim for any proceeds from the sale which are in excess of the taxes, penalties, and costs required to be paid from the proceeds. If excess proceeds result from the sale, notice will be given to said parties of interest, according to law. Assessment Numbering System Explanation
The assessment number, when used to describe properties in this list, refers to the Assessor’s map book, the map page, or the block on the map (if applicable), and to the individual parcel number on the map page or in the block.
The Assessor’s parcel maps and further explanation of the assessment numbering system are available in the Assessor’s Office, 1055 Monterey Street, Room D-360, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, California.
The properties which are the subject of this notice are situated in San Luis Obispo County, State of California, and are described as follows:
The San Luis Obispo Municipal Code Chapter 5.44 entitled “Mobile Home Park Rent Stabilization” requires that the monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI) percentage (%) be published as a basis for establishing rent increases. The monthly space rent in mobile home parks may not be increased more than once each year based on the CPI % change, or 9%, whichever is less. The CPI monthly data for Los Angeles, Long Beach and Anaheim is used for San Luis Obispo.The CPI monthly data for Los Angeles, Long Beach and Anaheim is used for San Luis Obispo. For further information regarding the CPI %, please contact the CPI Hotline at (415) 625-2270. Teresa Purrington, City Clerk, City of San Luis Obispo May 15, 2025
The San Luis Obispo Planning Commission will hold a Regular Meeting on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. Meetings may be viewed on Government Access Channel 20 or streamed live from the City’s YouTube channel at www.youtube. com/CityofSanLuisObispo. Public comment, prior to the start of the meeting, may be submitted in writing via U.S. Mail delivered to the City Clerk’s Office at 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 or by email to advisorybodies@slocity.org
CONSENT ITEM:
• Review of a General Plan Conformity Report for the Capital Improvement Plan of the 2025-27 Financial Plan. The project is exempt from Environmental Review under the General Rule (CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3)); Project Address: Citywide; Case #: GENP-0359-2025; City of San Luis Obispo, applicant
Contact: Madeline Kacsinta – (805) 781-7094 –mkacsint@slocity.org
PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS:
• Re-review of an existing Conditional Use Permit for a fraternity. The Use Permit, U106-98, was previously reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission in 1998. Due to recent noise violations, the Conditional Use Permit is being referred to the Planning Commission for a re-review. Re-review of the Use Permit is exempt from environmental review (CEQA); Project Address: 1236 Monte Vista Place; Case #: U106-98, USE-0332-2025; Zone: R-4; Delta Chi Fraternity, applicant
Contact: Mallory Patino – (805) 783-7704 –mpatino@slocity.org
• Re-review of an existing Conditional Use Permit for a fraternity. The Use Permit, U1484-91, was previously reviewed and approved in 1991 and modified in 1992 by the Planning Commission. Due to recent noise violations, the Conditional Use Permit is being referred to the Planning Commission for a rereview. Re-review of the Use Permit is exempt from environmental review (CEQA); Project Addresses: 1304 E. Foothill Boulevard and 190 Crandall Way; Case #: U1484-91, USE-0333-2025; Zone: R-4; Sigma Nu Fraternity, applicant
Contact: Mallory Patino – (805) 783-7704 –mpatino@slocity.org
064,042,011 Hitchcock Channing C Tre Etal $1,600.00
064,072,026 Herbst Andy Etal $1,500.00
064,312,037 Terronez Mary $1,400.00
064,312,048 Marken Enterprises Inc $2,000.00
064,353,028 Moreno Cecilia K Etal $1,700.00 Assesment Number Assessee Min. Bid
I certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed at San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California, on May 1, 2025. /s/ James W. Hamilton, CPA, San Luis Obispo County Tax Collector Published in New Times on May 1, May 8, and May 15, 2025.
The Planning Commission may also discuss other hearing or business items before or after the item(s) listed above. If you challenge the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing.
Report(s) are typically available six days in advance of the meeting and can be viewed on the City’s website, under the Public Meeting Agendas web page: https://www.slocity.org/government/mayorand-city-council/agendas-and-minutes. Please call The Community Development Department at (805) 781-7170 for more information, or to request an agenda report. The Planning Commission meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and live streaming on the City’s YouTube channel www.youtube.com/CityofSanLuisObispo May 15, 2025
CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE CITY COUNCIL
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Arroyo Grande City Council will conduct a public hearing in the Arroyo Grande City Council Chambers located at 215 E. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 on TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter, to consider the following item:
Amendments to Title 15 of the Arroyo Grande Municipal Code Regarding the Updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) Maps. The City Council will discuss the proposed amendments to the Arroyo Grande Municipal Code (AGMC) regarding the updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) maps as required by California Government Code Section 51179(a).
The Updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps are available for viewing on both the CAL FIRE website (https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/what-wedo/community-wildfire-preparedness-and-mitigation/fire-hazardseverity-zones/fire-hazard-severity-zones-maps) and City’s website (https://www.arroyogrande.org/).
The Public Hearing to discuss the proposed amendments to the Arroyo Grande Municipal Code (AGMC) regarding the updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) maps is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because it has no potential to result in either a direct, or reasonably foreseeable indirect, physical change in the environment. (State CEQA Guidelines, §§ 15060 (c)(2) and (3), 15378.)
This City Council meeting is being conducted in a hybrid in-person/ virtual format. During the public hearing, public comment will be limited to three (3) minutes per speaker, pursuant to current meeting procedure.
The City Council may also discuss other hearings or business items before or after the item listed above. If you challenge the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing. Failure of any person to receive the notice shall not constitute grounds for any court to invalidate the action of the legislative body for which the notice was given.
Documents related to the project are available in the Community Development Department located at 300 E. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande. The Agenda and reports are posted online at www. arroyogrande.org 72 hours prior to the meeting. Please call (805) 473-5420 for more information. The City Council meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and streamed live on the City’s Website.
/s/ Jessica Matson, City Clerk May 15, 2025
CITY OF GROVER BEACH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Grover Beach will conduct a Public Hearing at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter, on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 in City Hall, Council Chambers, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA to consider the following item:
SUBJECT:
Second Reading and Adoption of an Ordinance to Amend Chapter 12 (Fireworks) of Article III (Public Welfare, Morals & Conduct) of the Grover Beach Municipal Code to Regulate Social Hosts Allowing Illegal Fireworks
Where You Come In:
Any member of the public may be heard on the item described in this notice by calling (805) 321-6639 during the meeting or submit written comments to the City Clerk prior to the meeting by mail to: City Clerk’s Office, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA 93433 or by email to gbadmin@groverbeach.org, or by appearing in person at the City Council meeting. If you require special accommodations to participate in the public hearing, please contact the City Clerk’s office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting by calling (805) 473-4567.
For More Information:
If you have any questions or would like more information regarding the item(s) described in this notice, please contact: Police Chief Munro by telephone at (805) 473-4507 or send an e-mail to police@gbpd.org.
The City Council may also discuss other hearings or items of business at this meeting. The complete meeting agenda and copy of the staff report on the above item will be posted on the City website at www.groverbeach.org Live broadcasts of City Council meetings may be seen on cable television Channel 20, as well as over the Internet at www.groverbeach.org (click on the icon “Government Access Local Channel 20” and then “Channel 20”).
If you challenge the nature of the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the Public Hearing(s) described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to, the Public Hearing (Govt. Code Sec 65009).
WENDI B. SIMS, CITY CLERK
Dated: Thursday, May 15, 2025
NOTICE: SEIZURE OF PROPERTY AND INITIATION OF NONJUDICIAL FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS PER HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 11488.4(J) TO: ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
$10,843.00 IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY
Notice is hereby given that on March 17, 2025, the above-described property was seized at or near 1758 West Grand Avenue, Grover Beach, CA 93433, by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, in connection with cannabis violations, to wit, section 11360(a)(2) The estimated/appraised value of the property is $10,843.00.
Pursuant to section 11488.4(j) of the California Health and Safety Code, you must file a verified claim stating your interest in the property with the Superior Court’s Civil Division, Room 385, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California 93408. Claim forms are available from the Clerk of the above court and also online at https://www. courts.ca.gov/documents/mc200.pdf.
Furthermore, an endorsed copy of the verified claim must also be served on the District Attorney, Asset Forfeiture Unit, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, 4th Floor, San Luis Obispo, California 93408, within 30 days of filing the claim with the Superior Court’s Civil Division.
Both the District Attorney’s Office and the Interested Party filing the claim are entitled to conduct reciprocal requests for discovery in preparation for a hearing. The provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure shall apply to the proceedings unless inconsistent with the provisions or procedures set forth in the Health and Safety Code (Section 11488.5(c)(3)). The Interested Party in entitled to legal representation at a hearing, although not one appointed at public expense, and has the right to present evidence and witnesses, and to cross-examine plaintiff’s witnesses, but there is no right to avoid testifying at a civil hearing.
The failure to timely file and secure a verified claim stating an interest in the property in the Superior Court will result in the property being declared or ordered forfeited to the State of California and distributed pursuant to the provisions of Health and Safety Code section 11489 without further notice or hearing.
DATED: April 30, 2025
DAN DOW District Attorney
Kenneth Jorgensen Deputy District Attorney May 1, 8, & 15, 2025
CITY OF GROVER BEACH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the CITY COUNCIL of the City of Grover Beach will conduct a Public Hearing on TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter, in City Hall, Council Chamber, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA to consider the following item: SUBJECT:
Second Reading and Adoption of an Ordinance to update the City’s Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) Maps in accordance with the State Fire Marshal’s 2025 FHSZ designations for Local Responsibility Areas, as required by Government Code Section 51179.
Where You Come In:
Any member of the public may appear at the meeting and be heard on the item described in this notice or submit written comments prior to the meeting by personal delivery or mail to the City Clerk prior to the City Council meeting by personal delivery or by mail to: City of Grover Beach, City Clerk, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA 93433, or by email to: gbadmin@groverbeach.org.
If you require special accommodations to participate in the public hearing, please contact the City Clerk’s office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting by calling (805) 473-4567.
For More Information:
If you have questions or would like more information regarding the item described in this notice, please contact Megan Martin, Community Development Director, at (805) 473-4520 or send an e-mail to comdev@groverbeach.org
The City Council may also discuss other hearings or items of business at this meeting. The complete meeting agenda and copy of the staff report on the above item will be posted on the City website at www.groverbeach.org Live broadcasts of City Council meetings may be seen on cable television Channel 20, as well as over the Internet at www.groverbeach.org (click on the icon “Government Access Local Channel 20” and then “Channel 20”).
If you challenge the nature of the proposed actions in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the Public Hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to, the Public Hearing. (Govt. Code Sec. 65009)
Wendi Sims, City Clerk May 15, 2025
CITY OF ATASCADERO
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
DATE: May 27, 2025
TIME: 6:00 p.m.
PLACE: City of Atascadero Council Chambers 6500 Palma Avenue Atascadero, CA 93422
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Atascadero will hold a PUBLIC HEARING in-person at the time and place above for the purpose of the adoption of a resolution amending the schedule of fees and charges for City Services. A copy of the draft resolution and fee schedule can be viewed by appointment in the offices of City Hall, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, or by contacting the Administrative Services Department at (805) 470- 3428.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that if a challenge to the above action is made in court, persons may be limited to raising only those issues they or someone else raised at the public hearing described in the notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.
ALL INTERESTED PERSONS are invited to attend inperson and will be given an opportunity to speak in favor of, or opposition to, the above-proposed project. Written comments are also accepted by the City Clerk, prior to the hearing at 6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422 or cityclerk@atascadero.org and will be distributed to the City Council. Written public comments must be received by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Email comments must identify the Agenda Item Number in the subject line of the email. Written comments will not be read into the record.
Information regarding the hearing is filed in the Administrative Services Department. If you have any questions, please call Administrative Services or visit the office at 6500 Palma Ave., by appointment only, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. All documents related to the public hearing will be available for review on the City’s website 72 hours prior to the public hearing at www.atascadero.org/agendas
DATED: May 9, 2025
S/ Jeri Rangel, Administrative Services Director
PUBLISH: 5/15/25 and 5/22/25
CITY OF MORRO BAY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TAX EQUITY AND FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY ACT (TEFRA)
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Morro Bay will conduct a Public Hearing at 5:30 p.m. , or soon thereafter, on TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2025 at the Morro Bay Veterans Hall, 209 Surf Street, Morro Bay. Public comment, prior to the start of the meeting, may be submitted in writing to the City Clerk’s office at 595 Harbor Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442, or via email to council@morrobayca.gov
SUBJECT:
A public hearing on the City’s intent to undertake a proposed plan of finance that includes the issuance or reissuance of one or more series of exempt facility obligations, in the maximum amount indicated below, for the acquisition, construction and development of a 35-unit qualified residential rental project pursuant to Section 142(a)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. There is no City liability in approving this financing arrangement for the benefit of the Project; a transaction generally referred to as “conduit financing.”
Project Name: Morro Bay Apartments
Location: 405 Atascadero Road, Morro Bay, California 93442
Borrower/User: Morro By Apartments, L.P., a California limited partnership
Maximum Amount: $8,773,900
All those interested in matters related to proposed plan of finance or the location or operation of the project are invited to attend and be heard at the open session at the time and location described above.
For More Information: If you have any questions with respect to this matter, please contact Ken Litzinger, Director of Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Housing Authority of San Luis Obispo, at (805) 594-5304.
The City Council may also discuss other items of business at their meeting. The complete meeting agenda packet and staff report, including details on how to view and participate remotely, will be available 72 hours in advance of the meeting on the City website at www.morrobayca.gov
/s/ Dana Swanson City Clerk
Dated: May 12, 2025
Date Published: May 15, 2025
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Morro Bay will conduct a Public Hearing at 5:30 p.m., or soon thereafter, on TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2025 at the Morro Bay Veterans Hall, 209 Surf Street, Morro Bay. Public comment, prior to the start of the meeting, may be submitted in writing to the City Clerk’s office at 595 Harbor Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442, or via email to council@morrobayca.gov
PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA:
Description: Introduction of an ordinance amending Section 14.08.080, Fire Hazard Severity Zones, of the City of Morro Bay Municipal Code. In accordance with California Government Code and Fire Code requirements, this ordinance, if enacted, will adopt the map of Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) in the Local Responsibility Area (LRA) for the city of Morro Bay, as issued by the State Fire Marshal dated March 10, 2025.
The purpose of adopting these Fire Hazard Severity Zones is to identify and assess areas of potential wildfire risk, enabling the implementation of appropriate fire safety measures. This initiative is a part of efforts to protect life, property, and natural resources from the dangers posed by wildfires.
The map depicting the newly adopted Fire Hazard Severity Zones for Morro Bay is available for public review at the following locations:
1. City of Morro Bay City Hall, 595 Harbor Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442
2. City of Morro Bay Fire Department, 715 Harbor Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442
3. Online: morrobayca.gov/FHSZmap
4. By emailing the Morro Bay City Clerk at cityclerk@ morrobayca.gov to request a copy.
All those interested in matters related to proposed Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps are invited to attend and be heard at the open session at the time and location described above.
For More Information:
If you have comments on the proposed maps or any questions with respect to this matter, please contact Dan McCrain, Fire Chief, at fhszcomments@morrobayca.gov
The City Council may also discuss other items of business at their meeting. The complete meeting agenda packet and staff report, including details on how to view and participate remotely, will be available 72 hours in advance of the meeting on the City website at www.morrobayca.gov
/s/
Dana Swanson City Clerk
Dated: May 13, 2025
Date Published: May 15, 2025
NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Draft Ordinance has been introduced before the City Council of the City of Atascadero. The primary provisions of the Ordinance are as follows: This draft ordinance authorizes the formation of the Atascadero Industrial Development Authority.
On May 13, 2025, the City Council introduced this Ordinance for adoption by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Council Members Dariz, Funk, Newsom, Peek and Mayor Bourbeau. NOES: None. ABSENT: None.
The City Council will consider this Ordinance for adoption on May 27, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter, at City Hall, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, at which time any persons wishing to support or oppose the adoption of said Ordinance may appear and be heard.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN under provisions of Government Code Section 36933 the required publication in the New Times will be summary only. Copies of the full text of this Draft Ordinance (including all Exhibits) are available for review on the City’s website at www.atascadero.org or by appointment in the City Clerk’s Office, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, California.
DATED: May 13, 2025 S/ Alyssa Slater, Deputy City Clerk PUBLISH: May 15, 2025
HELP WANTED
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COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Notice is given that sealed bids will be received at the office of the County Clerk-Recorder, 1055 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, California 93408 before 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 5, 2025 (“Bid Deadline”), for the following public works project:
FY 24-25 COUNTYWIDE SURFACE TREATMENT
CONTRACT NO. 300720
Bids will be opened and declared by the County Clerk-Recorder at 3:15 p.m. on the bid opening date at a public meeting at 1055 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, California 93408.
Any bid received at the office of the County Clerk-Recorder of the County of San Luis Obispo at or after 3:00 p.m. on the date specified above will not be accepted and will be returned to the bidder unopened. A bid received one second after 3:00 p.m. (i.e., after 3:00:00 p.m.) shall not be considered.
Bids are required for the entire work described in the Contract Documents.
The Bid package (also referred to herein as the “Contract Documents”) are posted on the County’s Purchasing website: https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/departments/central-services/ purchasing-services/services/bid-rfp-opportunities
Any changes, additions, or deletions to these Contract Documents will be in the form of written addenda issued by the County. Any addenda will be posted on the website. Prospective bidders must check the website for addenda or other relevant new information at up to 5:00 p.m. the day before the prescribed date/time for submittal of bids. The County is not responsible for the failure of any prospective bidder to receive such addenda. All addenda so issued shall become a part of this Bid.
All bidders are required to acknowledge and confirm receipt of every addendum in their bid proposal.
All bidder Requests for Information must be submitted no later than 3:00 p.m., 5 business days prior to the bid opening date. Requests submitted after said date may not be considered. All questions pertaining to the content of this invitation to Bid must be made in writing through the Purchasing website. Questions and responses will be posted on the Purchasing website and can be viewed by accessing the Invitation to Bid located at the Purchasing website. The identity of the entity submitting the question will not be posted. The County reserves the right to determine the appropriateness of comments / questions that will be posted on the website.
The bidder must have either a Class A license or a combination of Class C licenses that make up a majority of the work at the time the Contract is awarded (Public Contract Code section 3300). When the bidder holds a combination of Class C licenses, all work to be performed outside of the bidder’s license specialties, except work that is incidental or supplemental to the licenses of the bidder, shall be performed by licensed Subcontractors in compliance with the Subletting and Subcontracting Fair Practices Act (Chapter 4 (commencing with section 4100) of Part 1 of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code).
Pursuant to Labor Code section 1771.1:
• A Contractor or Subcontractor shall not be qualified to bid on, be listed in the Bid Proposal, subject to the requirements of Public Contract Code section 4104, or engage in the performance of this public works project, unless currently registered with the Department of Industrial Relations and qualified to perform work pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5. It is not a violation of this section for an unregistered Contractor to submit a bid that is authorized by Business and Professions Code section 7029.1, Public Contract Code section 10164, or Public Contract Code section 20103.5, provided the Contractor is registered to perform public work pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5 at the time the contract is awarded.
• This Project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations.
The County of San Luis Obispo, in accordance with the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (78 Stat. 252, 42 USC §§ 2000d to 2000d-4) and the Regulations, hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full and fair opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in consideration for an award. There is no project-specific DBE goal requirement.
Bids must be submitted under sealed cover plainly marked as a bid and identified with the project number, the date and time for receipt of sealed bids, and the name of the bidder.
Bids must be accompanied by cash, a certified or cashier’s check, or a bidder’s bond in favor of the County in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the submitted total Bid.
Pursuant to Public Contract Code section 22300, the successful bidder may substitute certain securities for funds withheld by County to ensure performance under the Contract or, in the alternative, request the County to make payment of retention to an escrow agent.
The successful bidder will be required to furnish the County with payment and performance bonds, with each issued by a California admitted surety insurer equal to 100% of the Contract Price.
Pursuant to Labor Code section 1770 et seq., the Contractor and all Subcontractors shall pay not less than the prevailing rate of per diem wages as determined by the Director of the California Department of Industrial Relations and comply with all applicable Labor Code provisions, which include, but are not limited to the employment of apprentices, the hours of labor, and the debarment of Contractors and Subcontractors. The Director of the California Department of Industrial Relations determines the general prevailing wage rates. Copies are available at the DIR website, http://www.dir.ca.gov/DLSR/PWD
Executive Order N-6-22 – Russia Sanctions
On March 4, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-6-22 (the EO) regarding Economic Sanctions against Russia and Russian entities and individuals. “Economic Sanctions” refers to sanctions imposed by the U.S. government in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, as well as any sanctions imposed under state law. Should the State or County determine Contractor is a target of Economic Sanctions or is conducting prohibited transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities, that shall be grounds for termination of this agreement. The County shall provide Contractor advance written notice of such termination, allowing Contractor at least 30 calendar days to provide a written response. Termination shall be at the sole discretion of the County.
By order of the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Luis Obispo in their action on the 11th day of March 2025.
an update by CAO re: a survey on state/federal program reductions. Item 21: Closed Session: Anticipated Litigation: Significant exposure to litigation - potential cases: 1. Initiation of litigation - potential cases: 1. 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.; Central Coast Fence v. T. Jane Construction, et.al, SLO Superior Court, Case No. 22CV-0011. 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. Conference w/ Real Property Negotiators re: APNs: PNs: 002-324-010; 012; 002-326-021. Agency Negotiators: S. Diggs. Parties
Negotiating: Judicial Council of CA. Instructions: Price, Terms, and Conditions. Open Session. Report out. 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 May 15, 2025
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 1160
Notice is hereby given that at its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 6:00 PM, the City Council of the City of El Paso de Robles will hold a Public Hearing concerning adoption of Ordinance No. 1160, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EL PASO DE ROBLES ADDING SECTION 11.20.090 of the municipal CODE OF THE CITY OF EL PASO DE ROBLES REGARDING pavement preservation within THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY, AND DETERMINING THE ORDINANCE TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY act PURSUANT TO STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3)
The following is a summary of the Ordinance:
Section 11.20.090 of Chapter 11.20 of Title 11 of the El Paso de Robles Municipal Code, entitled “Pavement Preservation”
A. Pavement Preservation on Newly Paved Streets. Excavating, cutting, drilling, trenching, digging, potholing or otherwise disturbing the surface of any newly paved street is prohibited. For purposes of this Section, the term “Newly Paved Street’ shall mean any street that was constructed, reconstructed, slurry sealed, resurfaced, overlaid, or the subject of pavement rehabilitation within the past five (5) years.
B. Exceptions. An exception to the above pavement preservation requirement for newly paved streets may be granted in the following situations at the discretion of the City Engineer. Applicants seeking to excavate, cut, drill, trench, dig, pothole or otherwise disturb the surface of any newly paved street must submit a written request to the City Engineer, as part of their initial application submittal to the City, indicating which of the following exceptions apply to the proposed work with adequate supporting documentation as deemed reasonably necessary by the City Engineer:
1. Emergency encroachments that are immediately necessary to preserve life, property, or public health and safety from an imminent threat of harm;
2. Work that is mandated by city, state, or federal legislation, or initiated by the City;
3. Work necessary for new development or new customers to provide utility service for buildings or parcels where no other reasonable means of providing service exists;
4. Repairs or modifications that are necessary to prevent the interruption of essential utility service;
5. Other situations deemed by the City Engineer to be in the best interest of the general public.
Emergencies and other exceptions do not exempt the permittee from any requirements to repair the pavement as required by this section or as conditions of approval of a permit. The provisions of this section shall not apply to officers or employees of the City acting in the discharge of their official duties.
C. Permit Conditions. Any approval of an excavation in a newly paved street shall be subject to the following conditions in this subsection (C). The City Engineer shall have discretion to modify, supplement, waive or amend these conditions as may be necessary or appropriate under the circumstances to protect public health and safety or in furtherance of the goals of this section.
1. If affected pavement is isolated to one side of the centerline, permittee shall grind and overlay to a depth of 2 inches with a width extending from the curb to the centerline for the entirety of the length of the excavation.
2. If affected pavement extends past the centerline, permittee shall grind and overlay to a depth of 2 inches with a width extending from the curb to curb for the entirety of the length of the excavation.
3. For excavations perpendicular to the curb face where affected pavement is isolated to one side of the centerline, permittee shall grind and overlay to a depth of 2 inches with a width extending from the curb to the centerline and a length equal to 10 feet on both sides of the excavation.
4. For excavations perpendicular to the curb face where affected pavement extends past the centerline, permittee shall grind and overlay to a depth of 2 inches with a width extending from the curb to curb and a length equal to 10 feet on both sides of the excavation.
5. No pavement restoration is required for driveway aprons, if permittee cuts at edge of gutter and uses edge of existing asphalt concrete as batter board.
6. For all pavement restoration, permittee shall match existing material of the roadway, unless waived by the City Engineer.
7. Excavations utilizing trenchless options, including but not limited to pipe lining or pipe bursting, shall be subject to reduced pavement restoration requirements as deemed appropriate by the City Engineer on a case by case basis.
The above summary is a brief description of the subject matter contained in the text of the Ordinance, which has been prepared pursuant to Government Code Section 36933. This summary does not include or describe every provision of the Ordinance and should not be relied upon as a substitute for the full text of the Ordinance.
Copies of the full text of the Ordinance are posted and available in the City Clerk’s office at 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles, California or on the City’s website at www.prcity.com
Date: May 15, 2025 Melissa Boyer, City Clerk
Free Will Astrology by Rob Brezsny
Homework: What do you want more than anything else but fear you’re not worthy of? Newsletter.freewillastrology.com
ARIES
(March 21-April 19): What may appear to be slow or static is actually moving. The developing changes are imperceptible from day to day, but incrementally substantial. So please maintain your faith in the diligent, determined approach. Give yourself pep talks that renew your deeply felt motivation. Ignore the judgments and criticism of people who have no inkling of how hard you have been working. In the long run, you will prove that gradual progress can be the most enduring.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20): The most successful people aren’t those who merely follow their passion, but those who follow their curiosity. Honoring the guidance of our passions motivates us, but it can also narrow our focus. Heeding the call of our curiosity emboldens our adaptability, exploration, and maximum openness to new possibilities. In that spirit, Taurus, I invite you to celebrate your yearning to know and discover. Instead of aching for total clarity about your life’s mission, investigate the subtle threads of what piques your curiosity. Experiment with being an intrigued adventurer.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 20): Gemini author Huston Smith was a religious scholar who wrote 13 books. But he was dedicated to experiencing religions from the inside rather than simply studying them academically. Smith danced with Whirling Dervishes, practiced Zen meditation with a master, and ingested peyote with Native Americans, embodying his view that real understanding requires participation, not just observation. In the spirit of his disciplined devotion, I invite you to seek out opportunities to learn through experience as much as theory. Leave your safety zone, if necessary, to engage with unfamiliar experiences that expand your soul. Be inspired by how Smith immersed himself in wisdom that couldn’t come from books alone.
CANCER
(June 21-July 22): More than 2,000 years ago, people living in what’s now the Peruvian desert began etching huge designs of animals and plants in the earth. The makers moved a lot of dirt! Here’s the mystery: Some of the gigantic images of birds, spiders, and other creatures are still visible today, but can only be deciphered from high above. And there were, of course, no airplanes in ancient times to aid in depicting the figures. Let’s use this as a metaphor for one of your upcoming tasks, Cancerian. I invite you to initiate or intensify work on a labor of love that will motivate you to survey your life from the vantage point of a bird or plane or mountaintop.
LEO
(July 23-Aug. 22): You now have extra power to detect previously veiled patterns and hidden agendas. That’s why I urge you to be alert for zesty revelations that may seem to arrive out of nowhere. They could even arise from situations you have assumed were thoroughly explored and understood. These are blessings, in my opinion. You should expect and welcome the full emergence of truths that have been ripening below the surface of your awareness. Even if they are initially surprising or daunting, you will ultimately be glad they have finally appeared.
VIRGO
(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Renowned Virgo author Nassim Nicholas Taleb has called for the discontinuation of the Nobel Prize in Economics. He says it rewards economists who express bad ideas that cause great damage. He also delivers ringing critiques of other economists widely regarded as top luminaries. Taleb has a lot of credibility. His book The Black Swan was named one of the most influential books since World War II. I propose we make him your inspirational role model for now, Virgo. May he incite you to question authority to the max. May he rouse you to bypass so-called experts, alleged mavens, and supposed wizards. Be your own masterful authority.
LIBRA
(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): I predict that your usual mental agility will be even more robust than usual in the coming weeks. Although this could possibly lead you to overthink everything, I don’t believe that’s what will happen. Instead, I suspect your extra cognitive flexibility will be highly practical and useful. It will enable you to approach problems from multiple angles simultaneously—and come up with hybrid solutions that are quite ingenious. A possibility that initially seems improbable may become feasible when you reconfigure its elements. PS: Your natural curiosity will serve you best when directed toward making connections between seemingly unrelated people and fields.
SCORPIO
(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You’re ready to go to the next evolutionary stage of a close alliance. Although you may not feel entirely prepared for the challenge, I believe you will be guided by your deeper wisdom to do what’s necessary. One way I can help is to provide exhilarating words that boost your daring spirit. With that in mind, I offer you a passage from poet William Blake. Say them to your special friend if that feels right, or find other words appropriate to your style. Blake wrote, “You are the fierce angel that carves my soul into brightness, the eternal fire that burns away my dross. You are the golden thread spun by the hand of heaven, weaving me into the fabric of infinite delight. Your love is a furnace of stars, a vision that consumes my mortal sight, leaving me radiant and undone. In your embrace, I find the gates of paradise thrown wide.”
SAGITTARIUS
(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In ancient Egypt, mirrors were composed of polished copper. To remain properly reflective, they required continual maintenance. Let’s take that as a metaphor for one of your key tasks in the coming weeks. It’s high time to do creative upkeep on your relationships with influences that provide you with feedback on how you’re doing. Are your intended effects pretty close to your actual effects? Does your self-image match the way you are perceived by others? Are you getting the right kind of input to help you stay on course?
CAPRICORN
(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Chances to initiate creative transformations will come from unexpected sources in the coming days. I guarantee it. But will you be sufficiently receptive to take maximum advantage? The purpose of this horoscope is to nudge you to shed your expectations so you will be tenderly, curiously open to surprising help and inspiration. What sweet interruptions and graceful detours will flow your way if you are willing to depart from your usual script? I predict that your leadership qualities will generate the greatest good for all concerned if you are willing to relinquish full control and be flexibly eager to entertain intuitive breakthroughs.
AQUARIUS
(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): For many Indigenous people of California, acorns were part of every meal. Nuts from oak trees were used to create bread, soups, dumplings, pancakes, gravy, and porridge. But making them edible required strenuous work. In their natural state, they taste bitter and require multiple soakings to leach out the astringent ingredient. Is there a metaphorical equivalent for you, Aquarius? An element that can be important, but needs a lot of work, refinement, and preparation? If so, now is a good time to develop new approaches to making it fully available.
PISCES
(Feb. 19-March 20): When Pisces-born Jane Hirshfield was a young poet, she mostly stopped writing poetry for eight years. During that time, she was a full-time student of Zen Buddhism and lived for three years at a monastery. When she resumed her craft, it was infused with what she had learned. Her meditative practice had honed her observational skills, her appreciation of the rich details of daily life, and her understanding that silence could be a form of communication. In the spirit of the wealth she gathered from stillness, calm, and discipline, I invite you to enjoy your own spiritual sabbatical, dear Pisces. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to relax into the most intriguing mysteries. ∆
