New Times, June 29, 2023

BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

• Interacting with local businesses in SLO and SB Counties?

• Learning about effective advertising and marketing?

• Being out and about and not stuck behind a desk all day?

• Making a positive difference in a local economy?

• Supporting local, independent journalism?

• Working for the biggest media group on the Central Coast?

• Paychecks reflective of your hard work?

• Fresh bagels every Monday morning?

• Working with helpful people in a fun and positive environment?

• Receiving crucial, entry-level sales training and experience?

Insurance companies are sending letters to homeowners across the state informing them that their homes will no longer be covered due to fire risk. With provider options shrinking and rates increasing, the state is offering residents who can’t find coverage the FAIR Plan. However, it can cost up to $5,400 a year for the policy and homeowners also need to find secondary coverage for their homes, as the FAIR policy only covers fire. Staff Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas speaks with an Atascadero homeowner about her insurance struggle, Cal Fire about fire risk, and an insurance agent about the issue [8]

This week, you can also read about how Sunny Acres is faring and what happened to Dan DeVaul [9], PCPA’s production of Emma [22], and the top SLO County spots for vegan food [29].

Camillia Lanham editor

cover photo from Adobe Stock cover design by Alex Zuniga

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

1010 MARSH STREET, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93401 805/546-8208 FAX 805/546-8641

SHREDDER shredder@newtimesslo.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@newtimesslo.com

EVENTS CALENDAR calendar@newtimesslo.com

ADVERTISING advertising@newtimesslo.com classifieds@newtimesslo.com

WWW.NEWTIMESSLO.COM

Website powered by Foundation www.publishwithfoundation.com

FOUNDER

Steve Moss 1948-2005

PUBLISHERS

Bob Rucker, Alex Zuniga

EDITOR

Camillia Lanham

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Andrea Rooks

CALENDAR EDITOR

Caleb Wiseblood

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Glen Starkey

STAFF WRITERS

Bulbul Rajagopal, Adrian Vincent Rosas

EDITORIAL INTERN

Thomas Rodda

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jayson Mellom

EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

Leni Litonjua, Taylor Saugstad

ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER

Eva Lipson

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Eva Lipson, Ellen Fukumoto, Ikey Ipekjian, Mary Grace Flaus

SALES MANAGER

Katy Gray

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Kimberly Rosa, Lee Ann Vermeulen, Andrea McVay

MARKETING & PROMOTIONS COORDINATOR

Michael Gould

BUSINESS DEPARTMENT

Cindy Rucker

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

Michael Antonette

OFFICE MANAGER

Patricia Horton

OFFICE ASSISTANT/ACCOUNT MANAGER

Rebeca Santander

CONTRIBUTORS

Russell Hodin, Rob Brezsny, Anna Starkey, Andrew Christie, John Donegan, Cherish Whyte, John Ashbaugh

CIRCULATION

Jim Chaney

DISTRIBUTION

Tom Falconer, Dennis Flately, Edward Barnett, John Jiminenz, Bernadette Miller

New Times is published every Thursday for your enjoyment and distributed to more than 100,000 readers in San Luis Obispo County. New Times is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. The contents of New Times are copyrighted by New Times and may not be reproduced without specific written permission from the publishers.

We welcome contributions and suggestions. Accompany any submissions with a self-addressed stamped envelope. We cannot assume responsibility for unsolicited submissions. All letters received become the property of the publishers. Opinions expressed in byline material are not necessarily those of New Times

New Times is available on microfilm at the SLO City-County Library, and through Proquest Company, 789 E Eisenhower Pkwy., Ann Arbor, MI 48106, as part of the Alternative Press Project. Subscriptions to New Times are $156 per year.

Because a product or service is advertised in New Times does not necessarily mean we endorse its use. We hope readers will use their own good judgment in choosing products most beneficial to their well-being.

Our purpose: to present news and issues of importance to our readers; to reflect honestly the unique spirit of the region; and to be a complete, current, and accurate guide to arts and entertainment on the Central Coast, leading the community in a positive direction consistent with its past.

©2023 New Times

Study examines the future of Oceano Dunes post-OHV ban

An independent study is attempting to dust off an image of the Oceano Dunes’ future should off-road vehicle (OHV) use be permanently reduced or stopped at the state park.

Called the Oceano Dunes Stewardship Study, the 105-page document released on June 1 detailed 20 recommendations as a blueprint for prospective development, management, and promotion of the dunes and its neighboring areas. Those suggestions include creating a stewardship committee, expanding trail systems and walkways, developing new event venues, and improving education about the dunes. Once pursued, the recommendations are expected to take between one and seven years to actualize.

Marketing organization Visit SLO CAL and tourism and economic development advisor Resonance created the $87,500 study with the help of more than 40 stakeholders, including California State Parks, Northern Chumash tribal leaders, and representatives from municipalities like Grover Beach, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, and the Oceano Community Services District.

The study is a response to the California Coastal Commission’s March 2021 decision to end OHV use at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area by 2024. The call to phase out vehicles on the dunes resulted in a cluster of litigation, which stem from contentious debates on the alleged threat OHV use poses to dust mitigation efforts and the environment.

Attracting visitors to the Oceano Dunes is lucrative. According to the study, spending by visitors from outside SLO County to the dunes generated a total economic impact of $511.2 million in 2019. The study focused on that year as a pre-pandemic snapshot. Resonance President Chris Fair told the New Times on June 26 that the organizations could track the economic impact over 2019 and 2023 next year.

He said that work on the study began last fall, and carrying out its recommendations hinges on the court’s rulings on the plethora of lawsuits.

“It’s up to the stakeholders now,” Fair said. “No one group or party is responsible for all the recommendations. State Parks, Grover Beach, Oceano, Visit SLO CAL, and the county all play a role.”

Grover Beach, for example, contributed $5,000 in funding to support the study, according to City Manager Matthew Bronson. He added that the county and the cities of Arroyo Grande and Pismo Beach provided a similar level of funding. Grover Beach officials are still reviewing the study for recommendations that best apply to the city, but they have preliminary ideas.

“One example is the completion of the Grover

San Simeon CSD appoints acting general manager

The San Simeon Community Services District (CSD) selected Patrick Faverty to serve as an acting general manager pending contract and start date negotiations at a June 23 special meeting.

“What we have tonight is an agreement for acting managing duties,” CSD Legal Counsel Nubia Goldstein told the board. “Whoever the board selects will work with the current company—Grace Environmental Services—to ensure day-to-day operations are still being done.”

Faverty will work alongside Grace Environmental Services until the services it provides can be

Beach Lodge private development project at Pismo State Beach, which is referenced as an example of the ‘Diversify Accommodations’ recommendation,” Bronson said. “This hotel project is key to further developing the Grand Avenue beachfront entrance to the Oceano Dunes area.”

The focus on diversity in the study was lauded by the Sierra Club, too. Santa Lucia chapter Director Andrew Christie applauded the study’s recognition of implementing “non-OHV scenarios” for the Oceano Dunes.

“We fully agree with the study’s finding of a lack of diversity in State Parks’ concessionaire agreements and suggestion that they need to open it up to more non-OHV concessions,” he said via email.

However, Christie said that the Santa Lucia chapter also foresees a potential problem in the research: the suggestion that the Coastal Commission only get involved at the very end for approval of the proposed Stewardship Committee’s plans for carrying out concepts in the study. The committee, according to Christie, should engage the commission much sooner in the planning stage.

He mentioned that such delayed involvement brings the likelihood of the Stewardship Committee only realizing “a few million dollars later” that additional development projects are inconsistent with the local coastal program.

“Here’s a tip for the South County chambers and city councils: Consult directly with the Coastal Commission as early and often as you can in the course of your planning process, not at the end,” Christie said.

Christie also took umbrage with the study’s

adequately replaced. The CSD board, which is still searching for a director to fill the vacancy left in April by former Director Daniel De La Rosa, can now focus on finding a permanent general manager and operational services.

“[Faverty’s role] is not for an interim or new general manager,” Goldstein said at the meeting. “It is literally for assisting this transition phase.”

Currently, Grace Environmental Services provides services and staff for several operations in San Simeon as the CSD doesn’t have employees of its own—meaning they oversee the bulk of operations for the district’s water and wastewater facilities.

The June 23 vote follows the tumultuous tenure

suggestion of including “environmentally friendly OHVs” in the future. He called the phrase an “exercise in cognitive dissonance.”

“If this is a reference to electric OHVs, that would solve neither the dust problem nor the sensitive species and habitat destruction problem,” Christie said. “The primary damage to the dunes is done by the movement of the vehicles, not what comes out of their tailpipes.” ∆

—Bulbul

Rajagopal

of Grace Environmental Services owner and former CSD General Manager Charles Grace, which culminated with the CSD terminating his role on June 13 after the San Luis Obispo District Attorney’s office and Grace settled a lawsuit alleging conflict of interest.

“The [San Simeon] CSD’s contract with Grace Environmental Services to provide both management and operations is found to create an unlawful financial conflict of interest under the laws of California,” a press release from the DA’s Office read. “The contract provisions placed Mr. Grace and his company in a position to self-deal.”

New Times reached out to the DA’s Office for

SCOPE OUT The Oceano Dunes Stewardship Study provides 20 recommendations to plan the future development, management, and promotion of Oceano Dunes and surrounding communities should off-road vehicle use be permanently reduced or completely phased out.

further clarification on the statements made in the June 12 settlement announcement but had not received a response by press time.

In addition to the initial stipulations, Grace Environmental Services isn’t allowed to seek reimbursement from the CSD for any legal fees associated with the settlement— something that the company has done with past cases.

“The [CSD] had already reimbursed [Grace Environmental Services] over $125,000 in legal expenses as a result of the joint investigation by the DA’s Office and the Fair Political Practices Commission,” the DA’s Office stated. “The FPPC and Charles Grace entered into an agreement in 2021 that included Mr. Grace’s admitting to violating conflict-of-interest law and paying $4,500 in civil penalties.”

As part of the case settlement, the company has to pay $75,000 in civil penalties, be retrained regarding conflict of interest, and not seek further work from the CSD as either the general manager or a service provider.

“Public officials such as city council members, county supervisors, appointed officials—including general managers—must exercise their authority in a way that upholds the public’s trust,” District Attorney Dan Dow wrote in the settlement announcement. “In this case, both parties agreed that this contract created a financial conflict of interest that violates the laws of California.”

—Adrian Rosas

Arroyo Grande introduces ordinance removing discretionary permits for emergency shelters

Arroyo Grande is ready to steer back into process compliance.

On June 27, the City Council unanimously initiated an update to Arroyo Grande’s municipal code that allows emergency shelters to be set up in three zoning districts without requiring discretionary permits. They did so to be consistent with state law— specifically Senate Bill 2 that requires the housing plans for all California cities and counties to identify zones where emergency shelters are allowed without conditional use permits or the like.

However, SB 2 has been in effect since January 2008. Arroyo Grande Community Development Director Brian Pedrotti told New Times that the city’s ordinance should have been amended earlier.

“As the housing crisis got worse and worse,

[the need to amend] rose to the top,” he said. “There’s lots of state legislation going on all the time, so it’s up to local governments to keep up with them.”

In 2018, Arroyo Grande acknowledged the devastation caused by the lack of housing options and declared a homeless shelter crisis. The city still doesn’t have emergency shelters, but Pedrotti and other city officials hope that changes to the ordinance will open more sites for future development. Reworking the ordinance also comes at a time when South County-based 5Cities Homeless Coalition expressed interest to set up a development in Arroyo Grande that’s similar to its pallet shelter program in Grover Beach.

“Although our rules allowed for shelters, our ordinance was antiquated,” Pedrotti said. The existing ordinance grants emergency shelters in the industrial mixed-use and highway mixed-use areas but they require minor use permits. The updated ordinance eliminates that requirement. Further, the city included another area along East Grand Avenue between Brisco Road and Halcyon Road called the Fair Oaks Mixed-Use District to allow for more emergency shelters without discretionary permits.

Pedrotti added that once the ordinance becomes effective, proposed emergency shelters only need to meet objective requirements like maintaining a 300-foot buffer between each other, limiting the number of guests to 34, having a set management plan, and maintaining security detail.

“No hearings will be required,” he said. “It’s like [obtaining] a building permit for a singlefamily home.”

The City Council will return for the final reading and adoption of the amended

ordinance on July 25. It will take effect 30 days from that date on Aug. 25. The ordinance discussion on June 27 drew no public comments from residents, which Councilmember Jim Guthrie remarked as a sign of shifting times.

“The fact that we noticed an entire area [the Fair Oaks Mixed-Use District] and surprisingly don’t have anyone here would tell me that attitudes have changed about this particular issue,” he said at the meeting.

—Bulbul Rajagopal

SLO County partners with FEMA, state on North County disaster recovery center

Until July 1, North County residents seeking long-term recovery from damages caused by winter storms will be able to seek in-person assistance thanks to a new disaster recovery center set up in Templeton.

The center at the Templeton Community Center is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will assist businesses, homeowners, and renters who were affected by the severe winter storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides that began on Feb. 21. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently announced that SLO County was added to the list of California counties that were eligible to receive federal help for that set of storms.

“Residents who experienced damage to their homes or businesses can get help applying for federal assistance, disaster loans, update applications, and learn about

other resources that are available,” according to the SLO County Office of Emergency Services.

SLO County Emergency Services Coordinator Rachel Dion said that this center—along with another one in Oceano that was open from June 22 to 26—is the second collaboration between SLO County, FEMA, and the state Office of Emergency Services.

“When looking at [disaster recovery center] locations with FEMA, we decided to choose a location in Oceano and Templeton so that North County residents wouldn’t have to drive all the way to South County and vice versa,” Dion said. “The damage from the storms wasn’t isolated to just one area of our county so our goal was to have the [centers] in locations that were easily accessible to all residents.”

Dion said that in addition to providing general information on disaster relief, the centers will also provide residents with the information and resources to potentially apply for federal and Small Business Administration loans.

Although the center in Templeton closes at the beginning of July, the deadline for residents to apply for FEMA assistance is July 20.

“Residents can still apply online for assistance at disasterassistance.gov or disasterassistance.sba.gov,” she said. “Our website recoverslo.org also has links to sites to apply for assistance.”

All of these resources, according to Dion, are part of SLO County’s long-term recovery plans, especially in North County where flooding caused damage that is still in the process of being fixed.

“North County saw many of our significant issues with roads—most notably the complete washout of Chimney Rock Road near Lake Nacimiento and significant damage to Santa Rita Road,” she said. “Both roads have been repaired to allow access, but work to permanently repair Chimney Rock Road is still ongoing.”

That ongoing repair is reflected across the county in other recovery efforts, but with pop-up information centers like those in Templeton and Oceano, Dion is hopeful the county and its residents can focus on the future.

“Financial assistance and recovery for individuals mainly occur at the federal level, but we can help facilitate that process,” she said. “Outside of that, the county’s current main focus for storm recovery is the repair of county infrastructure, [but] that recovery process will take years.” ∆

—Adrian Rosas

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENT

NEED FOR CHANGE Following the 2018 homeless shelter crisis declaration, Arroyo Grande still doesn’t have emergency shelters. But city officials hope that the amended ordinance will help set up shelters for the homeless like this one in Grover Beach.

LOSE 2-4 INCHES OF STUBBORN FAT IN AS LITTLE AS 3 WEEKS

High risk?

LIPO

LASER CAN SAFELY SHRINK FAT CELLS

IN:

• Stomach

• Thighs

• Hips

• Buttocks

• Arms

• Chin

• Back

• Love Handles

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Laser energy safely penetrates and targets excess skin and fat cells. After a few minutes, pores form on the fat cell surface releasing water, sugar, and free fatty acids into the circulatory system to diminish fat cells.

WHO CAN USE IT?

Lipo Laser is perfect for ALL body types when combined with appropriate levels of exercise and a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle.

CALL TODAY (805) 474-4747

FULL SERVICE RECORDING STUDIO BY THE BAY

Nicole Pratt couldn’t believe her eyes when she read the letter from her insurance company. Kemper said it was dropping her Atascadero home insurance.

“We have lived and had the same homeowners insurance for our house since we moved there in 2009,” Pratt said. “Then out of nowhere, we got this notice that they were dropping our coverage due to fire risk.”

According to Pratt, however, there is one issue with the insurance provider’s reasoning: Her home isn’t at high risk. In fact, Pratt said, she and her husband have done everything possible to ensure their home is fire safe.

“My husband, who is a fireman for the city of SLO, comes home and weed whacks like it’s a second hobby,” she said with a laugh.

“We have six goats eating weeds where he doesn’t weed whack, we have a pool we can draw water from. Nothing about our property is even close to being a risk for any sort of burn or fire.”

She is just one of a slew of California homeowners who are currently scrambling to find new home insurance after their providers unexpectedly drastically raised their rates or dropped their coverage due to concerns about fire risk as the season approaches.

“All of these years we never made a claim,” Pratt said. “Then, like everyone else, we just get dropped.”

Upon receiving the letter, she immediately reached out to local and national groups to see if anyone could provide her with coverage but received the same answer again and again: “We will not cover you, your home is in a fire hazard zone.”

When Pratt did receive a response, she said that the rate increase quoted was often double or triple the usual rate of $1,900. After talking to nearly 15 different minor and major providers, Pratt realized she either could apply for the state’s FAIR Plan Insurance or go with Farmers Insurance.

“We were told by every one of the private brokers, [the FAIR Plan] is a last resort insurance. It’s not only very expensive, but you would need to get a secondary insurance to cover everything home related that isn’t fire,” she said. “I was so freaked out and our hands were tied, so we ended up going with Farmers.”

Farmers informed Pratt that her home coverage would be contingent on a home inspection for fire risk and would not be guaranteed past a year.

“They said—should the home inspector they send out approve our property—they could cover us for up to a year but after that, there is no guarantee,” she said. “Even if it isn’t as expensive as the FAIR Plan—which had rates up to $5,400—it’s still almost triple my current rate, costing $4,800.”

The costly impact of the dropped coverage has been just as shocking to Santa Maria-based insurance provider Jaime Flores,

who said homeowners all over South SLO County and North Santa Barbara County are experiencing the same thing as Pratt.

“Any outskirt areas in northern Santa Barbara and SLO County—places like Arroyo Grande, lakefront Naciemiento, Los Alamos,” he said. “I’ve been in the industry for 16 years, in that time frame, I’ve never really seen anything like this happen.”

Santa Barbara County Fire Marshal Rob Hazard said the issue also reaches far into southern Santa Barbara County.

“Montecito, Santa Barbara city, Carpinteria foothills are some of the places we know had their policies dropped,” he said. “We even had people in Santa Ynez Valley and adjacent to Tepusquet Canyon— completely different areas—have their policies dropped.”

According to Hazard, many of those latter areas lack the chaparral growth and rolling hills that are often cited as natural fire hazards, meaning insurance companies should be looking at risk factors like construction and building code instead.

“If the home insurance was approaching this properly, they would be looking at the homes themselves—asking things like, ‘Is the home under construction?’ ‘Is it under code?’” he said. “All of this stuff is a defined science. This isn’t a mystery.”

Part of that defined science is rooted in the risk maps that Cal Fire provides to insurance agencies.

“By legislation, insurance companies are supposed to utilize [Cal Fire] risk modeling when making these policy decisions,” he said. “Currently, however, all that is available right now are official [Cal Fire] maps that determine hazard.”

Cal Fire Pre-Fire Planning Deputy Chief Scott Witt said that hazard maps don’t necessarily take current-day factors into account.

“Hazard maps are a 15- to 30-year look focusing on what is going to happen and what will come back vegetation-wise. … It’s about long-term change,” Witt said. “When putting them together we don’t take into account risk mitigation, we don’t look at quality or size of the fire department, we don’t look at water supply, and we don’t look at fuel treatments.”

Witt also explained that

from his understanding, most insurance companies use in-house models.

“Each company assumes that their models will be able to provide and they don’t share those models’ info,” he said. “If they feel internally that they have too much risk in one community based on their in-house models, they will drop an area.”

Flores said that most of the carriers he works with provide his business with data from their systems that are meant to optimize the areas where they can and can’t offer coverage.

“Most carriers provide that data that we draw that conclusion of coverage from,” Flores said. “Once we put the address in and they say they can’t provide, we move on to the next company to see if they might be able to cover where the others could not.”

New Times reached out to the California Department of Insurance to clarify how companies were determining the areas in which they would provide coverage but didn’t receive a response back before press time.

Flores said he’s sympathetic to homeowners facing their coverage being dropped but also acknowledged that insurance companies currently can’t afford to take big risks in insuring areas that they see as even remotely close to being at risk for fire.

“A lot of remapping is happening right now and it’s affecting companies, so from an industry standpoint I get it, but from a customer’s perspective, it’s scary,” he said.

“The biggest piece of advice I can give is go over whatever plan you have currently with your agent to make sure it isn’t about to be canceled or lapse.”

With residents across the Central Coast and California facing this exact scenario, fire officials like Witt and Hazard said that in the end, it is the communities that end up suffering the most from changes like this.

“[The insurance companies] only see what they see, limited knowledge and all,” Hazard said. “It’s tragic because it hurts their industry in the long term and even more so for residents, who see it as these companies not caring. If this continues to happen en masse—no matter where in the state that is—you will have communities that will never be able to recover.” ∆

172 Station Way, Arroyo Grande ArroyoGrandeChiropractic.com

Se Habla Español

Rob Vermeulen of Robbo Music welcomes musicians, bands, singers and vocal talents to Morro Bay where music is hand crafted, home grown and full of heart.

FIRE FIASCO Homeowners in places across the Central Coast like Atascadero have found themselves without home insurance due to concerns about fire risk.

Rise of the receiver

Sunny Acres’ new court-appointed receiver faces the task of cleaning up what founder Dan DeVaul left behind

The program participants at San Luis Obispo’s Sunny Acres sober living community are preparing for a new dawn.

Embattled for years with issues of overcrowding, unpermitted septic and power systems, and alleged mistreatment at the hands of program founder Dan DeVaul, site residents are waiting for such problems to be fixed by a court-appointed receiver. As of June 7, the SLO County Superior Court ordered the California Receivership Group to take over Sunny Acres and formulate a plan with county officials to fix its laundry list of code violations.

“Dan’s attorney tried telling the judge that the receivership should only be against Sunny Acres, not Dan,” said Sunny Acres manager David Dieter on June 20. “Dan’s trying to push all his problems on us. We’re not the cause of the problems … he was hiding behind Sunny Acres to do the things he was doing.”

The 72-acre Los Osos Valley Road property is divided into the Sunny Acres program and DeVaul’s personal living quarters. A little more than a decade ago, he had to pay $100,000 to another court-appointed receiver, David Pasternak, who oversaw the code compliance process while a group of Cal Poly students cleared up some of the mess on the property. The court also slapped a permanent injunction on DeVaul in 2013 that banned him from allowing people to live in unpermitted structures like garden sheds and tents on the property.

Yet, county officials had to step in again. A search warrant allowed them to inspect the property in June 2021. That visit unearthed a return to the past: People were continuing to live in unauthorized structures; unpermitted electrical, plumbing, and septic improvements dotted the land; the amount of outdoor storage had ballooned significantly since 2013; and approximately 150,000 cubic yards of unpermitted grading and debris occupied a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)-designated flood hazard area.

Major changes have taken

place since the county issued a notice of violation in July 2021 based on that property search. For one, DeVaul also faces a labor lawsuit filed by some program participants who allege improper pay of various kinds. Last year, he transferred power of attorney to one-time SLO mayoral candidate Cherisse Sweeney.

A bout of COVID-19 then made 79-yearold DeVaul leave the ranch he was born and raised on. Dieter told New Times that ill health compelled DeVaul to move to Virginia where he now lives with his son. He added that in the time that DeVaul’s been away, Sweeney has been trying to enact plans on his behalf.

“She’s been talking with people who were trying to buy the property,” Dieter said. “Dan doesn’t want us running this program.”

One of the groups Sweeney is aiming to work with on the Sunny Acres property, he said, is social justice nonprofit Restorative Partners.

“They’re really good but Cherisse Sweeney was trying to set it up [in a way] that Restorative Partners took over our program,” Dieter said. “Well, I’m not going to let that happen. If Restorative Partners would like to partner with us, then I’m willing to listen.”

Sweeney didn’t respond to New Times’ requests for comment.

Assistant County Counsel Jon Ansolabehere told New Times that Sweeney’s power of attorney isn’t all-encompassing.

“Part of that power of attorney requires to get approval from Dan’s son James DeVaul,” he said. “I’ve heard that James has power of attorney over Dan as well.”

Ansolabehere belongs to the county’s legal team headed by County Counsel Rita Neal that’s been negotiating with DeVaul attorney Matt Janowicz on the receiver appointment and subsequent cleanup process.

He added that attorney Mark Adams, who leads the California Receivership Group, has a proven track record of bringing properties up to the mark in the seven instances his receivership team has worked in SLO County. Adams’ most recent receivership appointment

BOOK LAUNCH Meet

When: Saturday, July 1, 6:30-8:30 pm Where: The Wine Sneak 4468 Broad St, STE 120 in SLO

was the 50 Prado property—the 2.2-acre makeshift junkyard owned by SLO resident William Sievers that shares a property line with the 40 Prado Homeless Center.

Ansolabehere said he recommended Adams because he has a knowledgeable staff that can deal with complicated health and safety situations.

“My first case in Arroyo Grande, I used [Adams],” Ansolabehere said. “It was an elderly World War II veteran, and it was a really, really bad hoarding incident. [Adams] had his professional organizer come in … and we were able to salvage [the veteran’s] war memorabilia and were able to do some nice things for him that way.”

After the June 7 hearing, the receiver gave DeVaul 30 days to collect and remove his private belongings from the land. California Receivership Group’s project manager Pierce Harper also toured the Sunny Acres property with Dieter to scope out the areas that need fixing and cleaning.

“[Harper] is also meeting with Restorative Partners to provide services to [Sunny Acres] tenants and see how we can accomplish that,” Ansolabehere said.

Now, both the county and DeVaul’s team are preparing to meet in mid-July and make a plan for fixing the code violations. Judge Rita Federman granted an initial fund of $50,000 for the cleanup until that blueprint is finalized.

By way of appointment, the California Receivership Group stepped in after two potential buyers of the Sunny Acres property walked away because of DeVaul’s “outrageous” asking price, according to Dieter. Ambitious renovation projects now loom over the receiver’s horizon.

“Two of the biggest things that [DeVaul] has to fix: He’s supposed to supply us with a new well with a water treatment center on it, so that we have good drinking water,” Dieter said. “[And] all the electricals have to be upgraded and permitted for almost the whole ranch.” ∆

Reach Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal at brajagopal@newtimesslo.com.

POWER TRANSFER Before moving to Virginia, Sunny Acres sober living community founder Dan DeVaul transferred his power of authority to former San Luis Obispo mayoral candidate Cherisse Sweeney, who is attempting to make financial decisions on his behalf, according to Sunny Acres’ program manager.

Healing hospitals

The South Bay Community Center in Los Osos will soon be host to a film showcase and panel that former health care worker John Stavros considers extremely important to fixing a prevalent issue.

“In my opinion, this film represents everything wrong with the current-day health care system,” Stavros said. “It’s a master class in what has happened over the years.”

American Hospitals, Healing a Broken System will be shown at the South Bay Community Center in Los Osos, 2180 Palisades Ave., at 7 p.m. on July 27 for free followed by a panel discussion about the topics discussed in the film.

Stavros is just one of the former health care professionals who advised, contributed to, and—in his own words—are giving back to the community they served for years by sharing their stories and experiences as they watched the health care industry change around them.

“I helped the producer as an advisor during the development of the film,” Stavros said. “Originally I worked at a hospital, but now I want to give back by getting this film shown throughout the country.”

While he doesn’t believe the current hospital industry is wholeheartedly corrupt— and in fact, he is proud to see the innovations the industry has made over the years—Stavros does see a disconnect in how expensive health care has become.

“In some ways, the

industry has really improved over the years,” he said. “But what I care about is the issue of access and cost that seems to have gotten worse over time.”

The film is the fourth installment in a documentary series produced by the Unfinished Business Foundation that focuses on the economic impact the U.S. health care system experienced after rates for services rose drastically in the 21st century.

“American Hospitals dissects the underlying economic structure of hospitals to determine why health care costs are out of control and what can be done to reform the system,” according to promotional materials.

The film has been shown across 20 cities nationwide in addition to being shown in more than 50 community and virtual screenings.

“Our goal is to raise public awareness of the rise of powerful hospital systems throughout the country … all while safetynet and rural hospitals have been shuttered and inequity and classism in access and treatment to health care pervades American society,” promotional materials stated.

Stavros is working with local health professionals to assemble the panel that will discuss the film after its showing.

“While we don’t have an official lineup ready yet, we are working on putting a panel together that represents the various aspects of the social services industry and health

services community,” he said. “A lot of people don’t realize that those social services are peripheral to hospital systems.”

Stavros said that the makers of the film have plans to release the production to the public sometime in the fall, but that right now the focus is on grassroots promotion and the panels held after the film is shown.

“That’s our whole goal—we want to have this film shown and then have a panel that connects the health industry back to the people in the community,” he said. “To do that you also have to acknowledge the things around the industry that are impacted by these economic factors as well.”

Part of that emphasis on the rural community comes from the film’s secondary focus—solving problems in smaller communities.

Ultimately Stavros hopes that people will not only come and see the screening on July 27 but also take information from the film back to their communities and push for change— especially in smaller towns where rising hospital costs can make or break a community.

“Sure it’s been shown in big cities and had big premieres—that’s all important, and we are proud the film has done well,” he said. “But eventually, our idea is to get people together to see what kind of action can be taken.”

Fast fact

• The Vespera Resort in Pismo Beach will host a Beach Clean-Up event on Thursday, July 6, from 8 to 9 a.m. After the beach cleanup, Vespera Resort will provide coffee and light bites for attendees to enjoy. In addition, the Pismo Beach Stewardship and Educational Outreach team will be there to offer participants fun activities to learn more about the beach’s environment. For more information visit vesperapismobeach.com.

Reach Staff Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas at arosas@newtimesslo.com.

See for yourself

POIGNANT POSTER The poster highlights the emphasis of the film—the spirit of cooperation that’s needed to heal what people like former health care worker and film advisor John Stavros consider to be a broken hospital system.

Substandard rental housing is the university’s fault

Thank you for your article on lackluster landlords in SLO (“Cal Poly students demand rent control, accountability for substandard housing from SLO City Council,” June 22). That was great grassroots work by Cal Poly students; kudos to them. I wanted to also ask and implore for more pressure to be put on the university and not the city. The university is accepting far more students than it can support. As a result, the city is inundated by students. The university should be required to develop more student housing on and near campus with an emphasis on the

History always repeats itself, but why?

I thoroughly enjoyed the column John Ashbaugh wrote about James Watt (“The dark soul of James G. Watt,” June 15). I learned quite a few things about Watt that I missed at the time he was in action. (My bad, due to less interest in politics then.)

Is it ironic that he hated that evil rock music so much he tried to stifle it like some people are trying to stifle certain books, scientific information, and facts about historical events, etc.? Why does history always have to repeat itself? Why do people never learn that hate and negative actions will never solve anything?

My favorite thing to say these days is, “What are those people thinking??!!” People like the James Watt types, the racists, the anti-Semites, the anti-Muslims, the white suprematists, the insurrectionists of Jan. 6, the anti-LGBTQs, and any other hate groups. Why so much hate?

Some 10 to 15 years ago, one often saw or heard, “WWJD?” It sure wasn’t hate. It was love.

Perhaps as James Watt is roasting on

BY ANDREW CHRISTIE

proximity to the university— the college shouldn’t bleed so much into town.

The shortage of quality housing, at the root, is a result of too many students and too little housing. This is a direct consequence of Cal Poly irresponsibility. We as residents are already paying for Cal Poly’s lack of foresight; incredibly high rent, lack of quality housing, and major Poly events don’t just affect students. The city and its residents should not alone be responsible for solving this issue through the implementation of rent control and building high density housing.

Cal Poly needs to be held accountable for the students it enrolls. Currently, students

his bed of coals with other faux Christian fundamentalists, like Mr. Ashbaugh suggested, Watt and company can be serenaded by a CD loop playing the Greatest Hits of The Beach Boys.

Paulette Bellamy

San Luis Obispo

Reagan was awful and so was James Watt

Thank you for printing John Asbaugh’s opinion piece (“The dark soul of James G. Watt,” June 15). I was so tired of your newspaper printing opinions by that rightwing lawyer from Paso Robles (forgot his name). Mr. Ashbaugh hit it right on the mark in his opinion. Watt was horrible as a Interior Department head. Reagan was a lousy president and his appointment of Watt to this department proved it.

John Sutter San Luis Obispo

Ditch meat and save the climate

A new study reveals that the surge of disastrous wildfires in California is almost

Governor overreach

At the height of the fight over Gov. Gavin Newsom’s budget trailer bills (see “How a bill shouldn’t become a law,” my June 1 column), he took time to sit down for a New York Times interview with a sympathetic Ezra Klein. Newsom unloaded on ungrateful environmental groups for the reception he got for his last-minute infrastructure bill package.

“This rigidity and ideological purity is really going to hurt progress,” he said, referring to us, in contrast with the governor’s sense of urgency as a can-do, practical sort.

The column’s headline was lifted from the governor’s most piquant complaint: “People look at me all the time and ask, ‘What the hell happened to the California of the ’50s and ’60s?’”

I’m going to guess that nobody ever looks at the governors of West Virginia, Texas, or Mississippi and asks what the hell happened to the West Virginia/Texas/Mississippi of

the ’50s and ’60s, because, of course, that’s where they still are: Go ahead and build anything, anywhere; blow the tops off of mountains, never mind endangered species, vanishing wetlands, clean air, clean water, and too bad about the folks next door. I’m sure that’s not what the governor was going for with his invocation of the “good ol’ days,” and nothing in his trailer bills goes to that extreme, but much points in that direction, specifically at the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

Let’s listen in (as Klein should have) on a small sample of the comments made by state legislators during the four-day period they had to discuss the governor’s trailer bills. Remember, these are state legislators, not ungrateful, rigid, ideologically pure environmental groups:

“It is starting to feel that we are being jammed by design. When we move a process forward in this manner, one of

are allowed a max of two years of campus living. This is unacceptable for a town of 45,000 and a university nearly half that in enrollment. What students experience in unacceptable housing conditions is not unique to them but a shared experience across the city. Once again, this is a result of too little housing and too many students. Cal Poly must be required to develop more housing immediately.

to the destruction of diverse ecosystems. We can reduce the demand for animal-derived foods and promote forest preservation by ditching meat, eggs, and dairy.

According to the United Nations, a global shift toward vegan living is vital to combat the worst effects of the climate crisis. So this National Independence From Meat Day—and every day—let’s ditch meat and all animalderived foods.

Rebecca Libauskas The PETA Foundation Norfolk, Virginia

Greed causes homelessness

Some people ask, “Why are there so many homeless?”

entirely due to the changing climate. So as Independence From Meat Day (July 4) draws near, let’s help to tame the flames with planet-friendly vegan food.

Animal agriculture is a leading driver of the climate catastrophe. It’s responsible for copious amounts of greenhouse gas emissions and requires massive amounts of land, food, energy, and water. Going vegan can help conserve these precious resources. For instance, producing 1 pound of beef requires around 1,847 gallons of water— equivalent to filling 39 bathtubs. Compare that to soybeans, which require much less water at 216 gallons per pound. By opting for vegan food, we automatically reduce our water footprint. We also help to save the trees that wildfires haven’t ravaged.

The expansion of animal agriculture— particularly for grazing and feed crop cultivation—is a leading cause of deforestation, including the Amazon rainforest. The loss of forests not only results in the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere but also leads

It ain’t rocket science, when a room or converted garage is going for $1,200 a month maybe that’s why? I paid $ 500 a month for rent for 11 years until I had to move in with my disabled mom. My landlords could have gotten double for the place but they figured they would get a better, stable renter for a lower price, and they were right.

I know a couple who really are not greedy people. They were going to rent out their legally converted garage in the west-side of A-Town for $800 a month until a property management firm told them that they could get at least $1,200 a month or more for it. They listened to the property management people. It’s all about deciding that fine line of how much money you need to charge for rent, and greed seems to always override everything.

I have stage 4 colorectal cancer and if I didn’t live with Mom I would be living out of my Volvo station wagon, homeless with cancer while on chemo-therapy. If you get $800 a month for Social Security disability, well then do the math! Greed sucks, but it seems to rule this country these last years.

Kevin

Alf Lee Santa Margarita

RHETORIC & REASON

Troy Kutch San Luis Obispo

The shortage of quality housing, at the root, is a result of too many students and too little housing.

the things we miss out on the most is stakeholder input. Our communities are stakeholders and they don’t have time when the legislative process or the CEQA process is truncated. I am still struggling to find and determine what criteria and evidence is being used for statements to be made that this has to be moved forward in such a quick timeline.” —state Sen. Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara)

“These proposals, regardless of their policy merits, are not related to the budget. They are also not strictly focused on expediting projects that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions or otherwise have a climate benefit. These proposals raise a number of questions from overall priorities to basic drafting issues, as well as the justification for pushing them and the eligible projects through an abbreviated public process.”

—Assemblymember Luz Rivas (D-San Fernando Valley), chair, Assembly Natural Resources Committee

“You’re saying these proposals are the product of stakeholder engagement, that you developed these proposals based on stakeholder input, that this is what stakeholders want, and that you went to our districts and talked to our constituents. I’m saying never in my life—outside of government workers and government officials—have I had a stakeholder say to me: ‘Please limit the public record.’ If this is coming from my constituents, I would like to know.” —Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay)

“When we start thinking about accelerating a process, streamlining processes, sometimes our most marginalized populations and minority contractors and others tend to get left in the dust.”

—Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Perris)

“If we say go ahead and build those plants, and let’s do it in a hurry, you’re asking us to run on hope. And we have learned our lesson that when we operate that way, we end up either red-lining communities or creating low-wage jobs.” — state Sen. Dave Cortese (D-San Jose), chair, Senate Labor, Public Employment and Retirement committee

“If we are going to give CEQA flexibility, then there must be a discernible and narrowly tailored focus on environmentally beneficial projects.” —state Sen. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica), chair, Senate

Should the city of SLO crack down on slumlords?

81% Yes, rental setup is bad 11% What’s a slumlord?

5% SLO did that already?

3% Renters get what they get 37 votes

Environmental Quality Committee

“There is a difference between streamlining and expediting. Expediting means you’re going to do all the process and all the steps in a faster way. Streamlining is a decision to say we’re going to omit pieces of the process.” —Limón

“This is not OK. I will partner with this administration to the best of my ability, but I’ll be damned if I’ll be silent in the face of a pattern that is not good for the people of California.” — state Sen. Steve Padilla (D-San Diego)

There are many more of these than will fit in this space.

As you read this, legislators are wrapping up budget negotiations with the governor, because the new fiscal year starts on July 1 (though extensions are not unheard of). Whatever the outcome, this is not the first time the governor has used budget trailer bills, executive orders, or other means to circumvent the legislative process and rush through large projects and significant policy changes with minimum review, debate, or public awareness. It should be the last. ∆

Andrew Christie is the executive director of the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club. Respond with a letter to the editor by emailing it to letters@newtimesslo.com.

‘This is not OK. I will partner with this administration to the best of my ability, but I’ll be damned if I’ll be silent in the face of a pattern that is not good for the people of California.’

—state Sen. Steve Padilla (D-San Diego)

We’ve got you covered … not

“

You’re in good hands.” “It’s at times like this that Metlife sets itself apart.” “Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.” “Let Prudential be your rock.” “All your protection under one roof.” “Responsibility. What’s your policy?” “Nationwide is on your side.”

Hm. All these insurance company slogans seem very reassuring, don’t they? The idea is we pool our resources and share our risks, and if tragedy befalls one of us, our shared investment will make the befallen whole. Even if your home is paid for, and even if like Scrooge McDuck you’re sitting on enough cash to rebuild your home in case it’s damaged or destroyed, homeowners’ insurance is still a good idea. Who wants to decimate their savings to the tune of hundreds of thousands of dollars when they could have been setting aside a couple thousand bucks a year to bet they won’t get burned to the ground?

The thing is, if you’re still paying a mortgage (as are most California homeowners … 67 percent), insurance isn’t merely a good idea, it’s a necessity. Mortgage companies require it. So, most of us dutifully pay up knowing full well we’ll probably never recoup that money because to do so means tragedy has struck.

So, what do you do when your insurer, perhaps a company you’ve been with for decades, a company you’ve paid thousands of dollars to hedge your bet against disaster, suddenly tells you they’re dropping you like a hot potato? And what if, after shopping

around, you discover no other insurance company is willing to take your bet?

To top it off, we live in California, which means everything is more expensive— including building costs and homeowners’ insurance. I mean, it’s worth it, right? Ah, California, the Golden State, the white hot, yellow, orange, red-hot flaming Cheeto state with plumes of acrid black smoke bellowing into the sky. California.

I think the fire that changed it all, that really made insurance companies ask themselves if they can accept California’s associated fire risks, was the 2018 Camp Fire that left the town of Paradise looking like the Seventh Circle of Hell, killed 85 people, destroyed nearly 19,000 structures, and torched 153,336 acres in Butte County.

Closer to home, we had the 2017-18 Thomas Fire and resulting mudslide in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties that killed 23, destroyed more than 1,000 structures, and burned a whopping 281,893 acres. Butte got hit again in 2020 by the North Complex Fire. Fire is a fact of life in California, and wildfires have become more frequent, more deadly, and more destructive. For California homeowners who can’t get coverage, their option of last resort is the state’s FAIR Plan Insurance, which only covers fire and no other kind of damage, and that costs up to $5,400 a year—about triple what

most homeowners pay.

These issues compound and harm the housing market. If a prospective buyer needs an insurance policy to get a mortgage but can’t get one, they can’t buy a house and the seller can’t sell. That in turn hurts businesses and the economy in general.

Nobody wants to pay more for insurance than they need to, but if insurance companies that had been providing coverage in California are now fleeing the state and leaving their customers high and fire-season dry, perhaps they weren’t charging enough for premiums in the past. And that may be an entirely self-inflicted wound. In 1988, Californians passed Proposition 103 that required “prior approval” by California’s Department of Insurance before insurance companies could implement property insurance rates. The ballot also required insurers to “roll back” their rates by 20 percent.

You get what you pay for … and you don’t get what you don’t pay for. Now many California homeowners are holding a big bag of bail yourselves out, suckers.

And speaking of dropped hot potatoes, did the city of SLO leave renters holding a big bag of cockroaches, code violations, and overpriced rents? A group of Cal Poly students recently polled neighbors and discovered that they’re living in squalor and no one’s holding

slumlords accountable. I know what you’re thinking: “Hey, what about that 2015 Rental Housing Inspection Program (RHIP) that was supposed to assure health and safety standards for SLO rentals?”

Well, ha-ha-ha! Did you forget about the apoplectic fit people threw?

Then SLO City Councilman

Dan Carpenter led the charge against the ordinance, calling it “by far the most egregious legislation we’ve passed during my tenure on council.” Local gadfly and attorney Stew Jenkins joined with general contractor Dan Knight and buffoonish shit-stirrer Kevin P. Rice to gather signatures to strike the ordinance down.

Before it could get on a ballot, Heidi Harmon was elected mayor on the campaign promise of striking the RHIP down. For the record, in its nine months, the program worked. One-third of the 915 inspections found electrical problems, 31 percent discovered missing smoke detectors and 28 percent missing carbon monoxide detectors, 27 percent had improperly strapped water heaters, and 8 percent had plumbing problems.

Hey, but people didn’t like the ordinance, so you got rid of it. OK, that’s cool. But it was put in place to address a problem, so what did you replace it with to fix that ongoing problem? Oh? Was it nothing? A big, fat nothing? Great leadershit, team! ∆

The Shredder is happy living under the editor’s desk. Complain at shredder@ newtimesslo.com.

SPINE

MESENCHYMAL STEM CELL INJECTIONS TO ENTIRE LUMBAR SPINE

TREATMENTS

• ARTHRITIC FAUCET JOINTS INJECTED

ONE TIME BONE MARROW CONCENTRATION TREATMENT

• INTRADISCAL INJECTIONS TO HEAL TORN, BULGING, HERNIATED DISCS

• Torn discs

• Herniated discs

• Bulging discs

• MUSCLES AND LIGAMENTS ALSO INJECTED

FACET JOINTS, DISC INJECTION, MUSCLE AND LIGAMENTS.

• OVER 80% SUCCESS RATE

GREATER THAN 80% SUCCESS

RATE FOUND

• Sciatica

Sciatica

• Arthritis

Arthritis

Call for more information.

Hot Dates

FIN FUN

Glasshead Studio in Atascadero hosts its One Fish, Two Fish fused glass fish workshop on Wednesday, July 5, from 10 a.m. to noon. Participants of the class will create their own fused glass fish with a variety of colorful glass options to work from. Admission to join is $50. Call (805) 464-2633 or visit glassheadstudio.com. The studio is located at 8793 Plata Lane, suite H, Atascadero.

—Caleb Wiseblood

ARTS

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES

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

ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam

Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

ART EXHIBIT: LUMINOUS

EXPRESSIONS An exhibit of pastel paintings by members of the California Central Coast Pastel Society (3CPS).

Meet the artists during a reception on May 6 at 3 p.m. Through July 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo. com/gallery/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART

CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s

work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/gallery-artists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BOOK LAUNCH FOR AUTHOR

MOLLY WYER’S NEW NOVEL An event to celebrate the publication of Californienne , Molly Wyer’s second novel. There will be copies available for purchase, some wine and cheese to enjoy, and a few words will be said by Molly’s publisher. Molly will also be happy to sign books if desired. July 1 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free; registration is essential if you plan to attend. The Winesneak, 4468 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-1125.

CALL FOR ARTISTS: SLO GROWN (LANDSCAPE EXHIBIT) Looking for artist to submit artwork that showcases our agricultural landscapes from vineyards to pastures for our July/Aug. exhibit. Accepting all media. July 5 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Entry fees vary. 805-7474200. artcentralslo.com/gallery/call-forartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing 805-8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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.

COMEDY NIGHT Professional comedy show featuring local and touring comics. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. First Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. $5. 805-540-8300. Bang the Drum Brewery,

1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo, bangthedrumbrewery.com.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Looking for a fun date night? Head to Anam Cre Pottery Studio and play with clay. Couples will learn how to throw a pot on the wheel and make a cheeseboard. Fridays, Saturdays, 6-8 p.m. $140. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

FAMILY POTTERY CLASS A familyoriented class time. Any age or level welcome. Choice of sculpting, painting. or throwing on the wheel. Children must be accompanied by participating parent. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Aug. 26 $35. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. 805-5438562. sloma.org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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

INTERMEDIATE OIL PAINTING: ADULT ART CLASS This class is for students who may have tried oil painting in the past but are looking to advance their skill levels. Color theory and proportion

study will be a focus in the class. Mondays, 2-5 p.m. $30 per student or $75 for 3 classes. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INTRO TO OIL PAINTING WITH SPENCER COLLINS The perfect class for those wanting to try oil painting for the first time. Guests discuss color theory, layering paint, and how to use various media. For ages 16 and over. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $30 per class or $100 for 4 classes. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo. com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INTRODUCTION TO OIL PAINTING WITH JASON MAYR Discover the art of oil painting through this hands-on five-week series. You will be led through the process from staining the canvas to “finishing” the painting. Take your painting home at the end of the series (July 4 is off). Tuesdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. through July 25 $250 for five sessions. 805-234-6940. artcentralslo.com/ workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. 702-335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

KIDS POTTERY CLASSES Enjoy making animal sculptures, bowls, plates, etc. Please arrive on time, not early, as venue uses the transition time between classes to sanitize. Designed to sign up on a weekly basis. Thursdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre

INDEX

Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/ dress a loom, and much much more.

Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. 805-4418257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.

LISA SOLOMON Solomon’s mixed media works revolve thematically around discovering her heritage, the notion of domesticity, craft, feminism, and the pursuit of art as science/research.

Through Aug. 28, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ lisa-solomon/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

MARELA ZACARÍAS: STORYTELLING

Through July 7 San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 543-8562, sloma.org/.

ONCE, THE MUSICAL Presented by the San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre. Through July 2 SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-786-2440, slorep.org.

OPEN MIC COMEDY Sign-ups at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. Mondays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-540-8300. saintsbarrel.com/event-calendar. Saints

Barrel Wine Bar, 1021 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

PAINT A PRE-MADE POTTERY PIECE

Paint a pre-made pottery piece. Choose from a variety of different pieces including mugs, bowls, jars, dragons, cats, etc. Priced by size, accompanied with an additional $10 firing fee per piece. Book your appointment online. Mondays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Aug. 28 Free appointment; prices vary based on pieces chosen. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

PARENT-CHILD POTTERY CLASS Make lasting memories with clay together as a family. For ages 6 and over. Thursdays,

10:30 a.m.-noon $70. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden. Second Saturday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $75 per picket or 2 for $100. 805541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL

COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com). Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Various locations, San Luis Obispo.

POTTERY: BEGINNING WHEEL CLASS

This series is a great intro to the pottery wheel. Students learn to throw various shapes, surface decorate, and glaze. Clay and firing included with admission. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $180. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SCULPTURE CLASS WITH ROD PEREZ

This weekly sculpture drop-in class gives an opportunity for potters to take on new projects and learn new techniques relating to sculptural work. Additionally, every first Friday of the month, a new project will be taught by Rod Perez for beginners. Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SCULPTURE WORKSHOP: SPIRIT

ANIMAL Beginners welcome. This 6-visit sculpture class meets twice a week for a total of 3 weeks. Rod will guide each student in creating an animal sculpture. Mondays, Fridays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. through July 21 $240. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

• Need some extra cash?

• Getting ready to retire or move out-of state?

• Are you burdened by the storage of an inherited coin collection, obsolete jewelry, or collectibles?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, please give us a call!

Pismo Beach (805) 936-5058

Open Wed–Sun 10:30am–5pm john@pismocoinsgallery.com

Hot Dates

RESTORE. REUSE. RECYCLE. Old, broken, and unwanted jewelry is perfect to recycle. Gold and silver are the new GREEN. Turn it in for $$ and help the environment, too!

GARDEN GRUB

The UC Master Gardener Program of San Luis Obispo County hosts its next Lunchtime in the Garden event at the Garden of the Seven Sisters demonstration garden on Wednesday, July 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their own lunch, ask questions about the program, and tour or sit and enjoy the garden. Admission is free. Call (805) 781-5939 for more info. The garden is located at 2156 Sierra Way, San Luis Obispo.

SECOND SATURDAYS AT SLOMA

Intergenerational learning and creative expression for children of all ages. Families are invited to SLOMA’s lawn to learn about the visual arts together using our unique activity kits and create an art project inspired by our exhibitions. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma. org/events/second-saturdays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

SENIOR CLAY CLASS Offered to the senior community as an outlet to explore the beauty of clay. For ages 60 and over. Caretakers welcome for an additional $20. Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN

MIC NIGHT Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-2337, libertinebrewing.com.

SLO DRAWZ: OPEN FIGURE DRAWING

GROUP Improve your drawing skills while also building a community of supportive creatives with live models. This is not a guided class, please bring your own materials. To sign up, email chantellegoldthwaite@gmail.com. Every other Thursday, 5-7 p.m. through Dec. 31 $20 per session; or $60 for a month pass. 805-747-4200. instagram.com/ slodrawz/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SUMMER 2023 THEATRE CAMPS SLO

REP’s Academy of Creative Theatre presents fun theatre camps for all ages and levels of experience, taught by professional teaching artists. Check site or call for dates. Through Aug. 1 slorep. org. San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre, 3533 Empleo St., San Luis Obispo.

TINY POTTERS: WISE ONES AND WEE

ONES PAINT For ages 4 to 6. Kids have the option to paint animals and other subjects. Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $30. anamcre.com/booking. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

VANESSA WALLACE-GONZALES

Wallace-Gonzales is a Black-Latinx and Santa Barbara-based artist who uses elements of mythology to explore her

identity and personal experiences. July

7- Oct. 2 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-5438562. sloma.org/exhibition/vanessawallace-gonzales/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING

WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors. To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

COASTAL PERSPECTIVES:

PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT Represents a vast range of photography on various image surfaces. From black and white prints on paper, to color saturated prints on wood and metal, to changing images on a television screen, all of the entries exemplify masterful photography technique. Fridays-Sundays, 12-4 p.m. through July 2 Free. 805-927-8190. cambriaarts,org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.

COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY

Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. Event lasts up to 2 hours. 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. Jewett’s work is also on display at Nautical Bean in Laguna shopping center during February. ThursdaysSaturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559-799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

FINE ART OIL PAINTINGS BY PATRICIA

NEWTON “The ocean is a favorite subject of mine with its calming, yet powerful movement. Like the rise and fall

of a crescendo, the sea bestows a feeling of increasing intensity with a dramatic force that feels exhilarating, captivating, yet terrifyingly beautiful,” Newton stated. July 1 -29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHY RUSS The visual artistry of Russ’s work is born of a keen eye for the unusual and a life-long passion for the outdoors. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through June. Free. 805-7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY SIRAGUSA Gregory Siragusa’s photography is inspired by the ebbs and flows of the world around us: the flight of a bird, the strum of a guitar, the kick of a drum, the endless and eternal crashing of the waves of the Pacific Ocean. July 1 -29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. 805772-9095. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS SMALL WORKS BY STEVIE CHUN Stevie Chun is a self-taught modern watercolor artist who also enjoys working in pen and ink. She currently is focused on the different cultural and social meanings behind the shape of a circle. These forms repeat in all sizes. Mondays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through June 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

METAL ART BY TRUDI GILLIAM Gilliam creates her sculptures using copper, brass, nickel/silver, and found objects. This new series of whales and birds uses copper and sea glass. ongoing 805-772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACQUELINE SHUBITOWSKI

The Soul Cats Band Experience

FRIDAY, JUNE 30 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Santa Maria Civic Theatre 2023-2024 Membership JULY 1, 2023 – JUNE 30, 2024 SMCT, Santa Maria

Saunter Yoga & Wellness: Beer Yoga

SATURDAY, JULY 1 Ancient Owl Beer Garden, Atascadero

Green Jelly Punk Rock Puppet Show

SATURDAY, JULY 1 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Mark Mackay Summer Slowdown

SUNDAY, JULY 2 Blast 825 Brewery’s The Stockyard, Orcutt

4th of July Pancake Breakfast TUESDAY, JULY 4 Community Center, Avila Beach

4th of July Doggie Parade

TUESDAY, JULY 4 Avila Beach Promenade

Sunset Yoga in Morro Bay

WEDNESDAY, JULY 5 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

Shamanic Morning Rituals for Vitality

FRIDAY, JULY 7 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

Banda - The Very Best Of Santa Barbara: Banda Invasora & Los Anclas

FRIDAY, JULY 7 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Undergang, Hacked Apart, Mephitic Corpse, Necropsy Odor

FRIDAY, JULY 7 Dark Nectar Coffee, Atascadero

All You Can Eat Southern Seafood Boil

FRI & SAT, JULY 7 & 8 CaliPaso Winery, Paso Robles

at Play: Tribute to Chris Stapleton & Brandi Carlile

SATURDAY, JULY 8 SLO Wine & Beer Co., San Luis Obispo

46 West Summer Block Party 2023 ft. Moonshiner Collective

SATURDAY, JULY 8 Shale Oak Winery, Paso Robles

Beyond the Sunset: More Than a Drag Show

SATURDAY, JULY 8

Presqu’ile Winery, Santa Maria

Cambria Concerts Unplugged: Jody Mulgrew

SUNDAY, JULY 9 Old Santa Rosa Chapel, Cambria

FREE TICKETS!

Hot Dates

MORRO BAY ART IN THE PARK: JULY This event was established in 1955 and is in its 68th annual year. 100 fine artists from all over California attend this event July 1 10 a.m.-5

p.m., July 2 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and July 3 , 10 a.m.-

4 p.m. Morro Bay City Park, Corner of Morro Bay Blvd. and Harbor St., Morro Bay.

MOSAIC TRIVET WORKSHOP During this workshop, you will learn how to design and create a mosaic trivet. You will learn how to select materials, lay out a pleasing pattern, and adhere the tiles to the trivet base. You will learn how to grout and seal your project. 1-4 p.m. $60. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay. org/index.php/workshops/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

OPENING RECEPTION FOR GREGORY

SLO Blues Baseball Home Games

SELECT DAYS/TIMES

Sinsheimer Park, SLO

Circus Vargas presents: Bonjour Paris

NOW THROUGH MONDAY, JULY 10 Madonna Inn, SLO

SIRAGUSA, PATRICIA NEWTON, AND THOMAS BROWN Come meet the artists, have a snack, and bring some beautiful art home. July 8 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

PAPER, FELT, AND FIBER ART BY DEBBIE

GEDAYLOO “Most of my artistic inspiration comes from nature and my desire to create joy and happiness. My art is based on a foundation of respect for nature and the necessity of our being good stewards of the planet,” the artist stated. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through June. 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. 805-7729955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

PORCELAIN POTTERY BY THOMAS BROWN Brown has dedicated his ceramics career to studying crystalline glazes specifically. His medium of choice is usually porcelain and he typically creates his forms on the potter’s wheel. All of Thomas’ glazes are mixed from scratch, perfected throughout the past four decades. July 1 -29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

THE REBOOT (STORYTELLING

REIMAGINED): SLICE OF VICE A live show in a garden theater under the stars with true personal stories and parody about our quirks, habits, obsessions, and foibles. Seasoned and first-time tellers weave words into gold for folks who delight in all things well told. Come enjoy the creativity and community. June 30 , 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-772-9225. facebook.com/ the.reboot4u. Top Dog Coffee Bar, 857 Main St., Morro Bay.

PCPA Presents: Bright Star

JULY 7–9, 13–16, 20–23

Solvang Festival Theater, Solvang

ROCK, PAPER, PRINT Central Coast Printmakers present Rock, Paper, Print. An exhibition of new work by members inspired by rock, paper, and print. Artist’s reception on July 9. June 29 - Aug. 7 noon 805-772-2504. centralcoastprintmakers.org/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

SECOND SATURDAYS Come by and see the Featured Artists Shows, find gifts for your loved ones, surprises for yourself, and meet the artists featured in the incredible gallery. Second Saturday of every month, 5-7 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

SUMMER ART FOR KIDS SERIES Ages 6-12. Schedule changes during Fourth of July week (to Wed, Thur, Fri). Each week offers three creative sessions with an experienced art teacher using a wide variety of art techniques Tuesdays-Thursdays, 2:30-5 p.m. through Aug. 10 $120 per week. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

Central Coast Renaissance Festival

SAT & SUN, JULY 15 & 16 Laguna Lake Park, SLO

TOM GOULD: CONNECTIONS Seeking original art of all types, large and small, to exhibit concurrently with next featured artist: Tom Gould. Submit up to four pieces online June 28 through July 2. Fridays-Sundays, 12-4 p.m. through Aug. 27 Free. 805-927-8190. cambriaarts.org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

ART GALLERY OPENING Showcasing artwork of Susan Lyon, Kathy Madonna, and Maryanne Nucci. First Saturday of every month, 4-7 p.m. Free. Pocket Gallery on Pine, 849 13th Street, Paso Robles, 805-440-7152.

CAMP AND PAINT Please join Art Social 805 at Sun Outdoors Paso Robles where you will paint the featured image while enjoying your favorite snacks and beverages (BYOB). Ticket purchase includes all painting materials and instruction from a professional artist. July 2 , 3-5 p.m. $40. 805-242-4700. artsocial805.com.

Sun Outdoors Paso Robles, 3800 Golden Hill Road, Paso Robles.

DEPRISE BRESCIA ART GALLERY: OPEN

DAILY 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. DepriseBrescia.com. Deprise Brescia Art Gallery, 829 10th St., Paso Robles, 310-621-7543.

EVENING OF COMEDY FROM HEMINGWAY’S

STEAKHOUSE GA tickets are theater seating. VIP tickets get preferred table seating and food and drink service at the table. First Saturday of every month, 8-10 p.m. through Dec. 6 $38-$55. 805-369-1017. Park Ballroom, 1232 Park St., Paso Robles, ehsteaks.com.

ONE FISH, TWO FISH ... FUSED GLASS

FISH Create your own fused glass fish using a variety of colorful glass and accent with dichroic stringers. All materials included July 5 10 a.m.-noon $50. 805-464-2633. glassheadstudio.com. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, Atascadero.

OUR CENTRAL COAST Four art associations (Atascadero Art Association, Cambria Center for the Arts, Morro Bay Art Association, and Paso Robles Art Association) come together to showcase their visions of Central Coast living. The show has been curated by Jordan Hockett. June 30 - Aug. 27 Free. 805-2389800. studiosonthepark.org/events/ourcentral-coast/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

PRESSED FLOWER STAINED GLASS SUN CATCHER Capture the timeless beauty of pressed flowers and leaves between two pieces of glass. Learn how to use copper foil and solder to encase your botanical design. Finish off your piece with a beaded stringer. All materials included. July 9 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $125. 805-464-2633. glassheadstudio.com. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, 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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

UNDER THE BOARDWALK Visit site for tickets and more info on the show. Through July 15 americanmelodrama.com/. Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

EMMA Romantic misadventures, misplaced confidence, and matchmaking in the town of Highbury. The West Coast Premiere of a charming new adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel. June 29 8 p.m., June 30 , 8 p.m., July 1 , 8 p.m. and July 2 8 p.m. Starting at $25. 805-922-8313. pcpa.org/events/emma. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang. IMAGININGS: AN EXPLORATION OF WHIMSY With artists Cathy Quiel and Carol Simon. One exhibition, two renowned artists. With oil, watercolor and whimsy, the duo will exhibit the whimsical and unique moments in life through quirky landscapes. MondaysSundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through July 31 Free. 805-688-7517. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos, gallerylosolivos.com.

MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE An installation by Northridge-based artist Elizabeth Criss. Through Feb. 1, 2024 wildlingmuseum.org. Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, 805-688-1082.

MUSIC IS LOVE: PHOTOGRAPHS BY HENRY

DILTZ Highlights a collection of the prolific music industry photographer’s work. Through Aug. 13 elverhoj.org. Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, 805-686-1211.

SEDGWICK RESERVE: A CONSERVATION

STORY Through Oct. 16 Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, 805-688-1082, wildlingmuseum.org.

SHADES OF LIGHT Gallery Los Olivos exhibits Vicki Anderson and Neil Andersson during the month of June, in “a stunning show

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Blast 825 Brewery in Orcutt presents Nashville-based country artist Mark Mackay, live in concert, on Sunday, July 2, at noon. All ages are welcome to attend the show, which is part of Mackay’s Summer Slowdown Tour. Tickets are available in advance at my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery is located at 241 Broadway St., Orcutt. —C.W.

of color and light. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through June 30 805-688-7517.

GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

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. MondaysSundays, 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.

CITY FARM SLO’S YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM Check site for more info on programming and summer camps. ongoing cityfarmslo.org. San Luis Obispo, Citywide, SLO.

COMPLIMENTARY SHOWERS WITH SHOWER

THE PEOPLE After a short hiatus, the San Luis Obispo Library will once again be partnering with local non-profit organization, Shower the People. The shower trailer will be located between the library and parking structure. Toiletries provided. Sundays, 1-3 p.m. San Luis Obispo Library, 995 Palm St., San Luis Obispo.

GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Tuesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free with $5 Garden Entry. 805541-1400. slobg.org/calendar. Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free with $5 Garden Entry. 805541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A safe place for anyone suffering from the pain of depression. We do not criticize but do share

our journey, feelings, and what works for us. We can meet in person or use Zoom if needed. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. 805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A prorecovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. First Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

LOTERÍA NIGHTS Enjoy a game of La Lotería Mexicana, a bingo-style game with colorful and beautifully-drawn cards. With drink specials and prizes for the winners. RSVP encouraged. Thursdays, 6 p.m. Free. drinkramblingspirits.com. Rambling Spirits, 3845 S. Higuera St. (inside SLO Public Market), San Luis Obispo.

LUNCHTIME IN THE GARDEN UC Master Gardener Program of SLO County extends an invitation to the public. Bring your lunch, tour the garden, ask questions, or just sit and enjoy the sights and sounds of the venue’s Demonstration Garden. First Wednesday of every month, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Sept. 6 Free. 805-781-5939. ucanr.edu/sites/mgslo/. Garden of the Seven Sisters Demonstration Garden, 2156 Sierra Way, San Luis Obispo. MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.

NATURE NIGHTS

An immersive outdoor light and art exhibition. June 30 -Jan. 6 my805tix. com. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo, 8055411400.

PUPPY SOCIAL HOUR Puppies (10 weeks to 5 months old) will learn appropriate play style with other pups, acceptable manners with people, tolerance for gentle restraints, confidence with the approach of friendly strangers, and more. Saturdays, 9 a.m. and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. $25. 805-543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/training/. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK MACKAY

p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

QI GONG FOR MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT

Learn and practice qi gong, a Chinese system for physical, mental and spiritual development. This class is conducted outdoors in a beautiful setting, which is the best place to do qi gong, as its inspiration is drawn from nature. Certified instructor: Devin Wallace. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805709-2227. Crows End Retreat Center, 6340 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

SLO BLUES BASEBALL: JULY SCHEDULE

Visit site for tickets and full lineup of games. July 1-29 my805tix.com. Sinsheimer Park, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo, 805-781-7222.

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB

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

Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. through Nov. 25 $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo, 877-468-3861.

SLO SKIERS MONTHLY MEETING SLO

Skiers is a non-profit sports and social club for adults ages 21 and older. First Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. through Dec. 6 Meetings free; yearly membership $65. 805-528-3194. sloskiers. org. Dairy Creek Golf Course, 2990 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best

of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace for this outdoor class which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email before attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805-709-2227. Crows End Retreat Center, 6340 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG ATHLETES

(GRADES 2-4) In this program, your child will learn the foundation of becoming a well-rounded athlete as we focus on skill development, movement, teamwork, and increasing confidence in each workout session. Mondays, Wednesdays, 3:30-4:20

p.m. through Sept. 20 $399 for a 12-Week Session (24 Classes). slocity.org. MZR Fitness, 3536 S. Higuera St. suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-4616.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG ATHLETES (GRADES 5-7) In this program, your child will learn the foundation of becoming a well-rounded athlete as we focus on skill development, movement, teamwork, and increasing confidence in each workout session. Mondays, Wednesdays, 4:30-5:20 p.m. through Sept. 20 $399 for a 12-Week Session (24 Classes). slocity.org. MZR Fitness, 3536 S. Higuera St. suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-4616.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG ATHLETES (GRADES 8-12) In this program, your child will learn the foundation of becoming a well-rounded athlete as we focus on skill development, movement, teamwork, and increasing confidence in each workout session. Mondays, Wednesdays, 5:30-6:20 p.m. through Sept. 20 $399 for a 12-Week Session (24 Classes). slocity.org. MZR

Fitness, 3536 S. Higuera St. suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-4616.

desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@ gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SUPER REC SATURDAYS Offers a full day of recreational swim on Super Saturdays, with an obstacle course, diving boards, activities, and music. All ages are welcome to enjoy. Every other Saturday, 12-6 p.m. through Aug. 13 Adults: $4.75; Youth/Seniors: $4.25. 805781-7288. slocity.org. SLO Swim Center, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN

CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Second Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender nonconforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free.

GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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. 805528-4880. baysidemartialarts.com. 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

gratefulbodyhealthcoaching.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Mask Required. Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, 805-772-2840, sttimothymorrobay.org.

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.

COUNSELOR IN TRAINING ACADEMY

Described as “Half bootcamp, half training, all Christ Centered.” C.I.T. (counselor’s in training) Academy is a place for students in grades 8-12 to be trained how to prepare to be a counselor in future kids camps. June 30 4-10 a.m. $325. 805-238-3582. facebook. com/OutsiderCamp. Granite Ridge Christian Camp, 4850 Coyote Creek Lane, Creston. MORRO BAY MIXED MARTIAL ARTS

Disciplines include advanced athletic performance fitness training, Thai kickboxing, and more. Beginners to advanced students welcome. Day and evening classes offered. MondaysSaturdays, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Call for info. 805701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

SOCRATES: DISCUSSION GROUP Group members present interesting and thought

Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi gong offers great anti-aging benefits, providing a comprehensive system for improving physical, mental and emotional health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin Wallace. Call first. Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805-709-2227. Hardie Park, Ash Ave. and B St., Cayucos.

SUNSET YOGA IN MORRO BAY Visit site for tickets and event details. July 5, 5:15 p.m. my805tix.com. Beach Access Parking Lot, 102 Atascadero Road, Morro Bay.

TAI CHI AND QI GONG: ZEN IN MOTION

Small group classes with 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the Year. Call for time and days. Learn the Shaolin Water Style and 5 Animals Qi Gong. Beginners welcome. Mondays, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call for price. 805-701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

TAI CHI CHUN CERTIFICATION With the 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the year. Ongoing courses. ongoing Call for price. 805-7017397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

TAI CHI CHUN/ QI GONG BASICS Learn the foundation of Qi Gong, the rooting of breathing, and Shaolin Tai Chi. TuesdaysThursdays Call for details. 805-701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

WATERFRONT MARKET MORRO BAY 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND Features local crafters, in the parking lot of Giovannis Fish Market. July 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., July 2 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and July 3, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-4029437. slovendorsassociation.com. Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay.

WEEKLY QIGONG PRACTICE AT

Brocades, Five Elements, Shibashi 18, and Tai chi 24. Saturdays, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Members free; non-members $8-$10. 805-772-7466. fitnessworksmb.com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

ZEN IN MOTION Learn the Shaolin Water Style and other deep breathing and moving meditation techniques with the 2019 Taijiquan Instructor of the Year. Beginners Welcome.Instructor Certification Courses available. Mondays, Wednesdays Call for details. 805-701-7397. charvetmartialarts. com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

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. 805441-2164. North County Connection, 8600 Atascadero Ave., Atascadero.

SHERECOVERS SHARING CIRCLE

SheRecovers Foundation is a non-profit organization with a community of more than 325,000 women in or seeking recovery from substance use disorders, other mental health issues, and/or life challenges. It’s mission is to inspire hope and reduce stigma. Facilitated by Monica Galli, Certified Recovery Coach. First Thursday of every month, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. sherecovers.org/ sharing-circles/. Dharma Yoga Loft, 1329 Spring Street, Paso Robles, 805-434-1924.

TAI CHI This course’s instructor has won many Tai Chi and other internal martial arts tournaments. Both experienced martial artists and new learners are welcome to the class. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $65. 805-237-3988. Centennial Park, 600 Nickerson Dr., Paso Robles.

TOPS SUPPORT GROUP: WEIGHT LOSS

Summer 2023

Game Schedule

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AVILA BEACH 4TH OF JULY DOGGIE PARADE

Registration forms available. All dogs must be registered to walk in the parade. July 4 11 a.m.-noon avilabeachcc.com. Avila Beach

Promenade, 404 Front St., Avila Beach.

BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. ongoing Starts at $70. 805-835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School

Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS

Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52 Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological. Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. 805-547-1715. new.nawcc. org/index.php/chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS

Tours will give you a glimpse into the lives of Lighthouse Keepers and their families, while helping keep our jewel of the Central Coast preserved and protected. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

SEA EXPLORERS SUMMER CAMP New sessions start each week for Sea Explorers ages 5 to 12. Deep dive into a unique marine science subject exploring marine habitats, interacting with live animals, and conducting experiments each day to learn more about the wonders of our oceans. Mondays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through July 31 Varies. 805-457-5357. centralcoastaquarium.com. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach.

SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. 805-904-6615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.

THE TRUTH ABOUT AGING GRACEFULLY

Come to this lively and fun event and hear local experts give easy tips and advice on how to enjoy life to the fullest in your golden years. July 5 10-11:30 a.m. Free to older adults and their families. 805-710-2415. seacoastseniors.org/.

Hilton Garden Inn, 601 James Way, Pismo Beach.

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. MondaysFridays $160-$190. 805-481-6399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

30 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED IN SANTA MARIA/ ORCUTT Community Partners in Caring is seeking volunteers to help support dependent older adults and seniors. partnersincaring.org.

Santa Maria, Citywide, Santa Maria.

BIKE TO NATURE PROGRAM Participants will learn basic bicycle mechanics (and may get to build their own bike), how to run a community bike shop, how to bike safely on streets, how to select a route to natural and cultural resources, what makes a route safe, and how to advocate for safer streets. Through July 28 movesbcounty.org. Bici Centro, 310 Oak Street, Santa Maria.

CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 7 p.m. 805-934-3948.

Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria.

FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/.

Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.

GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing 805-3432455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo

Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY RAILWAY

HISTORICAL MUSEUM TOURS The collection includes late 1800’s-early 1900’s Engine used

STOP, ROCK, AND ROLL

The Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department hosts the Star Spangled Jamboree at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center on Tuesday, July 4, from noon to 4 p.m. The event will feature live music from local cover band Rock Odyssey, family-friendly activities, games, food trucks, and various vendors. Visit cityofsantamaria. org for more info. The Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center is located at 600 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. —C.W.

by the Betteravia Union Sugar Company, a 1930’s Sacramento Northern box car, and more. Second Saturday of every month, 12-4 p.m. smvrhm.com. Santa Maria Transit Center, Miller and Boone Streets, Santa Maria.

FOOD & DRINK

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.

SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., 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. 805-4392529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

WEDNESDAY PUB

TRIVIA Bring your thinking caps as questions vary from pop culture, geography, to sports. There is a little for everyone. Prizes for the winning teams. Trivia provided by Geeks Who Drink. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. 805-439-2529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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. through May 31 Varies. 805-824-7383. morrobayfarmersmarket.com. Morro Bay Main Street Farmers Market, Main Street and Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

BEER YOGA A hybrid yoga class where students practice yoga while drinking beer during their practice. July 1 10-11 a.m. my805tix.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero, 805-460-6042.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO

Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays 805-922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE INN

Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805-332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/ club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, 805-937-8110.

SIMPLY SOURDOUGH First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, 805-937-9750.

TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805-3323532, winestoneinn.com/.

WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

BRUNCH IS BACK Celebrate the second Sunday of the month with brunch. Enjoy a twohour cruise on the waterfront. Features fresh coffee, pastries, and more. Second Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $50. 805-772-2128. chabliscruises.com. Chablis Cruises, 1205 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.

ONX WINES VINEYARD TOUR AND TASTING

Enjoy a private tour and tasting at the ONX Estate. The tour begins at the Tractor Shed with a portfolio tasting. From there your host will drive you around the vineyard in an off-road vehicle, allowing you to taste the wine right where it’s grown. Mondays, Thursdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 29 $45 per person. 805-434-5607. onxwine.com/estate. ONX Estate Vineyard, 1200 Paseo Excelsus, Templeton. PAINT AND SIP Please join Art Social 805 at Unhinged, where you will enjoy a summer beach time-themed paint while enjoying a chosen glass of liquid courage. June 29, 6-8 p.m. $48. 805-464-2939. artsocial805.com.

Unhinged Beer and Wine Bar, 5816 Traffic Way, Atascadero. Hosted by ArtSocial805. July 9, 1-3 p.m. $47. 805-237-7959. artsocial805.com.

Penman Springs Vineyard, 1985 Penman Springs 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.

WINEMAKER VERTICAL

TASTING AT BROKEN

EARTH WINERY Wine enthusiasts and novices alike are invited to indulge in a unique and educational experience at the Winemaker Vertical Tasting hosted by Tyler Kollman, esteemed winemaker at Broken Earth. The tasting will feature an array of exquisite wines. June 29 5:30-7:30 p.m. $40$50. 805-239-2562. brokenearthwinery.com/ events/winemaker-vertical-tasting/. Broken Earth Winery, 1650 Ramada Dr., Paso Robles.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AVILA BEACH 4TH OF JULY PANCAKE

BREAKFAST Features pancakes, bacon or sausage, fruit, orange juice, milk, and coffee.

July 4 8:30-11 a.m. my805tix.com. Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach.

TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. 805-295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

HIGH TEA Come and enjoy some classic English cakes, cream tea scones, and savory treats with either a hot drink for $40 or glass of English sparkling wine from Chapel Down for $50. This will be a white tablecloth affair with classical music to relax to. First Saturday of every month, 1-3 p.m. through Oct. 7 $40$50. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

MUSIC

SAN LUIS OBISPO

EASTON EVERETT LIVE Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that has an authentic feel and an indie attitude, and generates curiosity with “catchy riffs, a sweeping groove, and a compelling sound.” June 30 1-4 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com. Sextant Wines, 1653 Old Price Canyon Road, San Luis Obispo, 805-542-0133.

EASTON EVERETT SOLO Enjoy some indieacoustic, live music. Thursdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. eastoneverett.com. Big Sky Cafe, 1121 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo, (805)545-5401. GUITAR BAZAAR Come to the new monthly Guitar Bazaar in SLO at the Guild Hall – a new kind of marketplace to sell, buy, and trade new and used guitars, amps, pedals, and other gear. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $12.25. 805-203-5564. hybridguitarworld. com/pages/guitar-bazaar. SLO Guild Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

LIVE MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO. Enjoy live music by local favorites. Wine available by the flight, glass, or bottle. Thursdays-Saturdays, 6-9 p.m. Ragtag Wine Co., 779 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-0774, ragtagwineco.com.

LIVE MUSIC FROM GUITAR WIZ BILLY FOPPIANO AND MAD DOG Join “Guitar Wiz” Billy Foppiano and his trusty side kick Mad Dog for a mix of blues, R&B, and more. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 805-544-2100. Bon Temps Creole Cafe, 1819 Osos Street, San Luis Obispo, bontempscreolecafe.com/index.htm.

SUNDAY MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO. Enjoy live music by local favorites. Wine available by the flight, glass, or bottle. Sundays, 4-7 p.m. Ragtag Wine Co., 779 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-0774, ragtagwineco.com.

THE TAYLOR PARTY: TAYLOR SWIFT NIGHT (ERAS VERSION) For 18 and over. July 1 9 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600, fremontslo.com.

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.

Hot Dates

DYNAMITE DAWSON CONCERT Cambria Center for the Arts is proud to present Dynamite Dawson in concert. It’s been since 2018 that this group has rocked and rolled into CCAT. July 2 2-4 p.m. $25. 213-864-9232. cambriaarts.org/theatreseason/. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.

INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO AT THE CAYUCOS LIBRARY SLO Symphony Zookeepers will introduce you to all of the well-loved and well-used instruments in our collection, and help you figure out how to make some noise. June 30 , 2:303:30 p.m. Free. 805-995-3312. slolibrary.org. Cayucos Library, 310 B. St., Cayucos.

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.

LIVE MUSIC WITH GUITAR WIZ AT LUNADA GARDEN

BISTRO “Guitar Wizard” Billy Foppiano plays a wide range of music, including blues, R&B, classic rock, and more. Second Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 805-900-5444. Lunada Garden Bistro, 78 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos.

NIFFY’S MERRIMAKER OUTDOOR BEER GARDEN SUMMER

CONCERT SERIES WITH THE SKYLITES Join The SkyLites at the Niffy’s Merrimaker outdoor beer garden for an afternoon concert. July 1 , 2-4 p.m. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos, 805-534-1007.

THE STORYTELLERS’ FIFTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

AND CD RELEASE PARTY Join The Storytellers at The Siren in Morro Bay to help celebrate their fifth anniversary and release of their new CD, Hear the Grass Grow June 30 7-10 p.m. Free. 805-225-1312. thesirenmorrobay.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay.

SUMMER TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES AT HARMONY

CELLARS Start your weekend in Harmony with live music, food truck fare, and wine on the patio. Reservations required. Seating provided. Fridays, 5:15-7:15 p.m. through Sept. 8 $12-$20. 805-927-1625. harmonycellars.com. Harmony Cellars, 3255 Harmony Valley Rd., P.O. Box 2502, Harmony.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

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.

JOLON STATION BAND VARIETY SHOW Come join Jolon Station Band every Thursday night in downtown Atascadero for a night of comedy, musical guests, prize wheels, and more. Thursdays, 8-10 p.m. $5 at the door. Raconteur Room, 5840 Traffic Way, Atascadero, 805-464-2584.

PATRIOTIC CONCERT AT THE LAKE The Atascadero Community Band will perform its annual Patriotic Concert. July 4 6:30-8 p.m. atascaderoband.org. Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero.

UP IN THE AIR AT BETHEL ROAD DISTILLERY Up in the Air, with a small version of the band, will play it’s eclectic mix of original and familiar favorites. July 1 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-4340319. Bethel Road Distillery, 1266 N. Bethel Road, Templeton.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

FRIDAY NIGHT HAPPY HOURS: LIVE MUSIC Enjoy Friday Night Happy Hour at Avila Bay Athletic Club. June 30 , 6-8 p.m. Free. avilabayclub.com. Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, 805-595-7600.

KARAOKE SATURDAYS Take advantage of karaoke every Saturday. Saturdays, 3-7 p.m. 805-723-5550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo.

KARAOKE WEDNESDAYS Take advantage of karaoke every Wednesday evening. Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, 805-925-3500.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

THE HOMESTEAD: LIVE MUSIC ON THE PATIO Check the Homestead’s Facebook page for details on live music events. Fridays, Saturdays The Homestead, 105 W. Clark Ave, Old Orcutt, 805-287-9891, thehomesteadoldorcutt.com.

MARK MACKAY SUMMER SLOWDOWN TOUR Enjoy live music from a Nashville-based country artist. July 2 noon my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777.

MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

UKULELE JAM SESSIONS This is a drop-in program. Play melodies and many songs with other musicians. Baritone ukuleles are available to use or bring your own. Music and music strands provided. Mondays, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925-0951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria. m

Arts

Central Coast Creative Corps awards grants to local artist-led groups, initiatives

Twenty-three organizations were recently selected through a competitive regional call to receive $140,000 grants as part of the Central Coast Creative Corps, a pilot grant program funded by the California Arts Council.

Grantees were selected from a pool of more than 100 applicants by a panel of Central Coast-based artists and community leaders.

Organizations in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties were eligible to apply.

R.A.C.E. Matters SLO, Lumina Alliance in SLO, the Blue Sky Center in New Cuyama, and Santa Barbara County-based nonprofit Family Services Agency were among the 23 recipients chosen, according to the San Luis Obispo County Arts Council. Each grantee will use the funds awarded to work with a local artist or artists collective on a project for the duration of one year.

“We are thrilled to support R.A.C.E. Matters and Lumina Alliance as our county’s partnering organizations with the Central Coast Creative Corps,” Jordan Chesnut, SLO County Arts Council programs director, said in a statement. “Artists are changemakers in their communities and the resulting collaborations will surely demonstrate that.”

Of each grant, $100,000 will go directly to the artist or collective, $20,000 will be allocated for supplies, materials, and other project costs, and the remaining $20,000 will go to the grantee for administration fees.

Hannah Rubalcava, grants and contracts manager for the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts and Culture described the 23 grantees chosen as representing “a diverse group of organizations—from their geographic locations, organization/budget size, and missions” and “a broad spectrum of the incredible work done by nonprofit and government agencies across the six-county region.”

“We look forward to working with them over the next year and seeing what is possible when artists work with these organizations and the impact it has on our communities,” Rubalcava said in the statement. For more info on the Central Coast Creative Corps, visit centralcoastcreativecorps.org.

WineSneak hosts book launch for Californienne

SLO-based author Molly Wyer will hold a book launch event for her new novel, Californienne at WineSneak on Saturday, July 1, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Admission is free, but pre-registration is required, as wine and cheese will be available for guests.

WineSneak is located at 4468 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. Visit https://lu.ma/0g4i81nj to register for the event. ∆

—Caleb Wiseblood

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Novel approach

PCPA offers fresh, charming take on Jane Austen’s Emma, under the stars in Solvang

Asymphonic instrumental of The Beatles’ “I Want to Hold Your Hand” sets a timeless tone for the Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s (PCPA) latest production, which takes place at the dawn of the 19th century.

Regency-era inhabitants of the English countryside dance to the tune at the start of Emma, a stage adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel that’s currently playing at the Solvang Festival Theater.

Like its source material, the show is set during the early 1800s, but director Polly Firestone Walker decided to employ a few anachronistic musical choices to “help build a bridge” between the setting of Emma and present day, without completely modernizing Austen’s work, she explained.

“I’m hoping that what the audience will get is that although Jane Austen wrote undeniably through a Regency lens, seeing the world through her particular experience, her vision of human nature is so universal,” Firestone Walker told the Sun. “What she sees—with so much love for the foibles and ticks of human character—still resonates so clearly today.”

The novel and show—which PCPA opened at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria during the spring, before bringing the production to Solvang for its current run—follows Emma Woodhouse (played by Emily Trask), who fancies herself a talented matchmaker and sets out to rig a romantic union between her friend, Harriet Smith (Julia Mae Abrams), and a local vicar, Mr. Elton (George Walker).

the matchmaking campaign. Emma and Knightly are often harsh and critical of one another, but their steadfast quarreling eventually amounts to a lingering chemistry between the two, analagous to Alicia Silverstone and Paul Rudd’s relationship in the 1995 film Clueless, based on Emma Fans of the coming-of-age teen comedy will probably read Emma’s yellow dress in the PCPA show as a fun nod to Silverstone’s trademark yellow plaid outfit in the film. Costume Designer Jacqueline Heimel supplied Trask and other members of the show’s cast with bold, colorful attire that makes them stand out against a graceful countryside estate backdrop created by scenic designer Abby Hogan.

One of the best things about PCPA’s Emma is Emma herself. Trask plays her with the perfect amount of playful pluckiness, while each of her fellow cast members also amplify a unique presence of their own while bringing their respective characters to life.

Sunset showings

The Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA) presents its production of Emma at the Solvang Festival Theater through Sunday, July 2. The company’s next production, Bright Star will open at the outdoor venue on Friday, July 7, and run through Sunday, July 23. Visit pcpa.org or facebook.com/ pacificconservatorytheatre for tickets and show times. For more info, call the PCPA box office at (805) 922-8313.

The clergyman misreads the situation completely and instead attempts to court Emma, before she rejects his awkward engagement proposal. Before the mishap, Emma’s frenemy of sorts, Mr. Knightly (Jordan Stidham), warns her not to proceed with

Some standouts in the cast include Walker, whose amusing turn as the bumbling vicar drew laughs constantly, and Cat Evans, who drew probably twice as much laughter playing the pretentious and passiveaggressive Mrs. Elton, the pastor’s rebound bride after Emma rejects his advances.

One of the reasons Firestone Walker was attracted to directing this iteration of Emma was the chance to embrace a novel she loves dearly—as a self-described “Austen freak” who owns “very, very well-thumbed copies of all her

books”—with a street theater-esque, minimalist approach.

“It is minimalist and the script calls for it,” the director said, referring to playwright Joseph Hanreddy’s fresh take on Austen’s novel. “The script flows from scene to scene so quickly. There is not a wasted moment, so you don’t have time for big set changes. It requires a minimalist approach that is absolutely character-driven.”

The director added that transitioning the production over to the outdoor setting of the Solvang Festival Theater from the indoor Marian Theatre went smoothly with minor adjustments. “The first hour or so is sunset so the lighting’s a little different,” Firestone Walker said. “It’s so fun to see this under the stars.” Δ

Calendar Editor Caleb Wiseblood gives PCPA’s Emma two thumbs up. Send comments to cwiseblood@newtimesslo.com.

TENACIOUS E Emily Trask plays Emma Woodhouse, the young plucky heroine of Emma, PCPA’s stage iteration of Jane Austen’s classic novel.

MAKE ME A MATCH Emma Woodhouse (Emily Trask, right) befriends Harriet Smith (Julia Mae Abrams, left), who she aims to set up romantically with a local vicar.

SHALL WE DANCE? Dance scenes in PCPA’s Emma are set to orchestrated, instrumental covers of popular songs like “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” “Blinding Lights,” and “Isn’t She Lovely.”

Adapted for the stage by Joseph Hanreddy From the novel by Jane Austen

Sponsored By: New Times, Santa Maria Sun, KSBY, KCBX, Estero Bay News, & Pat & Ben McAdams

Web of hues

Editor’s note: Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal and Calendar Editor Caleb Wiseblood wrote Split Screen this week while Glen and Anna Starkey attended the Live Oak Music Festival.

Miles Morales (voiced by Shameik Moore), Brooklyn’s newest Spider-Man, comes face-toface with a Spider-People-filled world that’s more colossal than he originally realized. New threats, timelines, and dimensions hurtle him into a tough place and force him to choose between saving the universe and protecting his very existence. (180 min.)

Bulbul No superhero franchise has been as consistently superb, in my opinion, as SpiderMan’s. I’ve been a Tobey Maguire loyalist ever since I watched him portray the web-slinger in 2002, but the animated Spider-Verse series is a masterful upgrade to a beloved childhood classic. Taking place right after the events of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Across the Spider-Verse opens with Miles Morales enjoying his fresh celebrity-hero status in New York anonymously as the city’s reigning SpiderMan following the death of Peter Parker. In an alternate dimension, his counterpart, Gwen Stacy (voiced by Hailee Steinfeld), struggles with her role as SpiderWoman. Separated by universes, the two teenagers miss each other and both wrestle with letting their respective families in on their superhero secret. Spider-Woman soon joins an elite strike team comprising Spider-People from different dimensions, serving different versions of New York. Morales is desperate to join but his membership threatens the fabric of humanity’s existence. Together, the two are ready to defy and subvert the expectations of superheroes. The film is a visual treat packed with Easter eggs for hawkeyed and casual fans alike. Each Spider-Person comes with a new animation style, helping Across the Spider-Verse live up to its name by showing graphic forms like punk art, watercolor treatment, and even a Lego-themed scenario. Make sure you

AND JUST LIKE THAT

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Max

WORLD-WEARY Alternate universes collide with harrowing consequences for Spider-Man (voiced by Shameik Moore) in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE

What’s it rated? PG

What’s it worth, Bulbul? Full price

What’s it worth, Caleb? Full price

Where’s it showing? Colony, Downtown Centre, Fair Oaks, Park, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande, Sunset Drive-In

catch it on the big screen just for the art. Caleb Of all the different realities the film explores, Stacy’s is my favorite. Her world gets the watercolor treatment Bulbul mentioned. It’s an eye-popping approach that reminded me of the painting-esque yet lifelike imagery in Richard Linklater’s experimental drama Waking Life. During each frame of Across the Spider-Verse set in Stacy’s dimension, it feels like we’re simultaneously in the world she inhabits and her own mind, as the foreground and background colors are either subtly changing or rapidly shifting depending on Stacy’s mood. It’s as if fresh watercolor drips down the screen like tear drops, for example, during a somber exchange between Stacy and her father (voiced by Shea Wigham), a police officer who is ironically hell-bent on arresting Spider-Woman. Each animation approach included in the film feels like a character-driven choice and suits its respective Spidey effectively. Style aside, the storytelling is so strong that had Across the Spider-Verse been live action, this film and its predecessor would easily amount to the best live-action SpiderMan iteration since the Maguire trilogy (I’m also a Tobey loyalist). But the animation heightens the material and makes the film feel like the most literal embodiment of “a comic book brought to life” in cinematic history. Bulbul Across the Spider-Verse is a witty introduction to how vast Spider-Man lore is to not only Morales but also to us. It’s almost a menu of which version of SpiderMan you want to learn more about through the comics. Every major new Spider-Person debuts with a citation of the comic book they

BLACK MIRROR (SEASON SIX)

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2023

were first featured in. But there’s substance in the film, too, with a plot that’s both smart and compassionate. Almost every major character grapples with their powers’ impact on their families, and that heartfelt element grounds a story that could have totally flown off the rails. Be prepared for some thrilling twists and pulled heartstrings. This film achieves something rare in a series: It surpasses the original. Sticking to an easyto-follow storyline, it sidesteps the potential of being burdened by all the graphic experimentation. While the first movie confidently dipped its toe into the world of breaking the boundaries of graphic design, Across the Spider-Verse rides that creative wave. If nothing else, take it from the little girl I overheard as we stepped out of the theater: “This was the best movie ever!” Caleb What I’ll say about my experience walking away from this movie is I can’t remember the last time I’ve felt so satisfied with an ending yet craving or Kraven— Spidey pun intended—more at the same time. No Marvel film is without a cliffhanger nowadays, but this film’s gripping finale really caught me off guard. It opens the door for what could be a very intriguing continuation of the series without feeling like generic sequel bait. This latest entry in Spider-Man’s cinematic pantheon is definitely worth seeing on the big screen for its mesmerizing visuals, an electrifying soundtrack from Daniel Pemberton (who scored the original Spider-Verse as well), and well-spun story that seamlessly weaves together poignant themes and laugh-out-loud humor. ∆

Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal and Calendar Editor Caleb Wiseblood wrote Split Screen this week. Send comments to gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Set 11 years after the events of the disastrous Sex and the City 2 movie, New York’s fashionable foursome has viewers asking a question that’s different from the usual “Are you a Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker), a Samantha (Kim Cattrall), a Charlotte (Kristin Davis), or a Miranda (Cynthia Nixon)?” Now we’re asking: Where’s Samantha? And Just Like That a reboot of the 25-year-old HBO staple TV series Sex and the City is plagued by her noticeable absence. Kim Cattrall exited the franchise following behind-the-scenes pay squabbles, and the new series feels lackluster without her tongue-in-cheek humor that brought a reality check to the other characters on the show. Yet it’s worth secretly binging to let off some steam and see how the iconic women navigate dating in a concrete jungle in their 50s. Viewers can decide if the story ends for them at the end of the two movies or even the original series finale in 2004. Season 2 is underway with two episodes out, and new episodes will be streamed on Max every Thursday. (approx. 45-min. episodes)

—Bulbul

COULDN’T HELP BUT WONDER Now in her 50s, Sarah Jessica Parker’s iconic Carrie Bradshaw navigates New York’s dating scene once more in And Just Like That, but this time without her best friend Samantha Jones in tow.

PLEASURES PLEASURES

Writer, creator, and showrunner Charlie Brooker’s dystopian sci-fi/horror anthology series is back after a four-year hiatus. Based on the episodes I’ve seen so far, I have a feeling that the latest season of Black Mirror was worth the wait. There are five episodes total in season 6, including “Mazey Day,” which follows Bo (Zazie Beetz), a paparazzi photographer assigned to follow an actress (Clara Rugaard) with a terrifying secret, after she mysteriously abandons Hollywood for a life of seclusion. In “Joan is Awful,” a tech company’s CEO (Annie Murphy) is shocked to discover that there’s a new streaming series that retells her day-to-day life almost in real time. Unpredictable twists and turns have defined Black Mirror since its debut season in 2011, and season 6, from what I’ve seen so far, certainly doesn’t deviate. (Five 45- to 80-min. episodes) ∆

—Caleb

CAMERA-READY Zazie Beetz plays a paparazzi with a daunting assignment in “Mazey Day,” one of the five episodes in season 6 of Black Mirror

Starring: Harrison Ford, Mads Mikkelsen, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Antonio Banderas

COURTESY PHOTO BY CRAIG BLANKENHORN/MAX

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

KEH Camera will be in San Luis Obispo for a Three-Day buying event at The Photo Shop. Turn your clean, used camera gear into cash!

We invite you to this special event July 6th, 7th, 8th, 2023 by appointment.

*KEH Camera will make you an on-the-spot offer for your photographic equipment. Come in early with charged batteries for digital cameras, and bring in your film cameras too!

BY GLEN STARKEY

‘Fun, Fun, Fun’

The Beach Boys play Vina Robles Amphitheatre

Who doesn’t love The Beach Boys? Their music is the soundtrack of American adolescence. Just listing their hits would be endless! “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “I Get Around,” “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” “God Only Knows,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” “Good Vibrations,” “Sloop John B.,” “Barbara Ann,” “Little Deuce Coupe,” “Catch a Wave,” “Don’t Worry Baby”—I could literally go on and on! They didn’t release a bad song.

Originally formed in 1961 by brothers Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson, their cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine, the current incarnation of the band only includes one original member: Mike Love. In fact, organizers of the upcoming Vina Robles concert are quick to point out the current group doesn’t feature Brian Wilson, Al Jardine, or David Marks (who joined in 1962 to replace a departing Jardine, who returned again in 1963).

Look, pretty much everyone agrees Brian Wilson was the band’s unquestionable genius, but Love often sang lead vocals and wrote the lyrics to a lot of their early aforementioned hits as well as “Help Me Rhonda,” “Rock and Roll Music,” and “Kokomo.” The important thing is this band embodies The Beach Boys’ sound and spirit, and if you love the music, this will be an unforgettable concert.

Current members also include longtime bassist and keyboardist Bruce Johnston (he joined in 1965), musical director Scott Totten, Brian Eichenberger, Christian Love, Tim Bonhomme, John Cowsill, Keith Hubacher, and Randy Leago.

Vina Robles Amphitheatre hosts America’s band on Wednesday, July 5 (7:30 p.m.; all ages; $54.50 to $104.50 at vinaroblesamphitheatre.com).

Also this week at Vina Robles Amphitheatre, see Randy Houser this Friday, June 30 (8 p.m.; all ages; $40 to $57.50 at vinaroblesamphitheatre.com).

Houser’s a hitmaker who’s charted with tracks such as “How Country Feels,”

“Runnin’ Outta Moonlight,”

“Boots On,” “Goodnight Kiss,”

“Like a Cowboy,” “We Went,” and “Anything Goes.” Country duo Joe & Martina open the show.

The Siren

I’ve got to hand it to The Siren. They deliver week after week for live music fans. I wish we still had a club like this in downtown SLO. I told you a little about them last week, but don’t forget The Stinkfoot Orchestra, a 14-piece Frank Zappa tribute band from the Bay Area, plays this Thursday, June 29 (7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; $18 at tixr.com).

“In the early months of 2019, South Bay musician Nick Chargin (keyboards and vocals) got a wild hair up his ass,” the band’s bio explains. “Best known for his work with BlissNinnies, Elephino, and the successful Bay Area cover band, the Houserockers, Nick had the idea of assembling an ensemble to give a tip of the hat to one of his greatest musical influences, Frank Zappa. But it couldn’t be just any band. There had to be horns. There had to be a mallet player. There had to be backup singers. This had to be more than a band that was capable of playing ‘all the right notes’—it had to be a band that was capable of performing Frank’s music with accuracy and integrity.”

Also this week at The Siren, The Storytellers play on Friday, June 30 (7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; free). This fast-rising SoCal progressive bluegrass ensemble “draws from the rich canon of traditional bluegrass, country blues, old time, and folk music as a basis for inspired improvisations and intrepid vocal harmonies,” according to their bio.

“They took just one year to go from busking on street corners of Los Angeles to gracing stages of bars, taverns, regional fairs, and music festivals throughout the state.” Expect soulful vocal harmonies, tight rhythms, narrative songs, and “their own bluegrassy magic” as they tour in support of their new

album, Hear the Grass Grow.

Jane’s Gang plays on Saturday, July 1 (2 to 5:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; free). The high energy dance band intends for every one of their songs to get you on your feet. Hear Fleetwood Mac, The Pretenders, Pat Benatar, The Rolling Stones, The Eagles, Miranda Lambert, and Johnny Cash covers.

Later that same night, see Itzcalli Marie (formerly of Thee Lakesiders), with The Belmont Kings and Los Tranquilos (8 p.m.; 21-and-older; $20 at tixr.com). Should be a cool night of Latin-inspired jump blues, swing, and rock ’n’ roll.

The Miller Broz plays The Siren’s Sunday Summer Concert Series on Sunday, July 2 (2 to 4 p.m.; 21-and-older; free). “Dance, drink, eat, and be merry with local favorite Curtis Martin and his band of misfit Central Coast musicians!” The Siren announced.

“The Miller Broz have been writing and recording in SoCal since the ’80s, performing in concerts and nightclubs from San Diego to the Bay area playing a mix of catchy Rasta and soulful rock to party dance covers.

Fremont Theater

There’s not live music this week at The Fremont, but Swifties will be out in full force for The Taylor Swift Night (Eras Version) on Saturday, July 1 (9 p.m.; 18 and older; $20 at seetickets.us).

“Hey, Lovers! Can we ask you a Question … Are you ready for it?” asked event organizers. “We promise that you’ll never find another party like The Taylor Party: Taylor Swift Night, a Taylor Swift Inspired Dance Party. Best believe our party is Taylor-made for ultimate fans. Surrounded by Swifties, you’ll sing and dance through all her iconic eras. So, grab … your crew, and come party, for evermore! We know you polish up real … nice.”

SLO Brew Rock

No live music this week at SLO Brew Rock either, but the club is hosting its second annual Booty Pageant on Friday, June 30 (doors at 7 p.m.; 18-and-older; $20 at ticketweb.com). Before you roll your eyes, let organizers explain:

“The second annual Booty Pageant is a wild, fierce, and wonderful evening celebrating all of our finest ASSets. The Booty Pageant will include a mix of performance art including stand-up comedy, individual and group dance performances, a twerk tutorial, and other crowd participation elements. We will close the night with a proper dance party with Chad Fortin spinning the booty dropping beats all night. This isn’t about how good you look—this is about how good you vibe! We want you to bust out the grooviest and most fabulous attire and come and shake it with us!”

The event is organized by BomBooty Dance Party Workouts, a booty-positive community for those who love to get down with their bad selves.

More music …

We’re rolling into a warm summer weekend, and the place to be on Friday, June 30, is Mission Plaza for Concerts in the Plaza. Opening act, local singer-songwriter Ynana Rose, starts things off at 5 p.m., followed from 6 to 8 p.m. by headliner Alex Lucero & The Live Again Band. Lucero bills his singer-songwriter sound as “soul Americana,”

LOVE WINS Mike Love, the only remaining founding member of The Beach Boys, puts the band through its paces at Vina Robles Amphitheatre on July 5

COURTESY PHOTO BY UDO SPREITZENBARTH

COURTESY PHOTO BY RACHEL DEEB

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE STORYTELLERS

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEX LUCERO

‘BOOTS ON’ Country hitmaker Randy Houser plays Vina Robles Amphitheatre on June 30

BLUEGRASS REBELS SoCal rising bluegrass stars The Storytellers play The Siren on June 30

BOOGIE WITH THE SLOCALS Concerts in the Plaza features headliner Alex Lucero & The Live Again Band on June 30

having grown up on the sounds of Al Green, Marvin Gaye, Van Morrison, and Stevie Wonder. His band features a sax and congas.

WAR saxophonist Scott Martin will lead the Scott Martin Quartet this Friday, June 30, at Libretto in Paso Robles (two sets at 7 and 8:30 p.m.). “I’m bringing up a couple of my friends and incredible players from LA for this performance,” Martin explained. “Bass player Rene Camacho plays with me in the band WAR and was in the Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band with me. Quinn Johnson is an amazing piano player from Pasadena. He has played with many artists and was the musical director for American Songbook singer Steve Tyrell for 16 years. It should be a fun show!”

Wes Kelley and The Uncharted Waters play Dockside II in Morro Bay this Saturday, July 1 (11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; all ages; free), with some very special guests, including local lead guitarist Steve Cunniff, bassist Jeff Wass, and percussionist and backing vocalist Jo Gough. The event is a celebration of Monterey-based singer-songwriter Kelley’s new album, Built in Jo’s Garage, which was produced and engineered by Gough of Crystal Studios in Mid Carmel Valley.

“The circumstances are somewhat unusual, as I have never performed in SLO County,” Kelley explained, “but an old friend of mine asked me to join him for this gig, and I agreed. My friend, Steve Cunniff, plays lead guitar and has slowly been losing his eyesight over the last 20 years. I’ve pulled together some very talented musicians for this threehour gig to support Steve and give Morro Bay residents a great show.”

The Cow Tipper at Oceanpoint Ranch in Cambria has some free afternoon music lined up this weekend starting with

Whale Rock Music & Arts Festival, the other amazing SLO County summer music extravaganza that’s scheduled for the end of summer, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 16 and 17, at Castoro Cellars. Like Live Oak, it will likely sell out before, so now’s the time to get your tickets for this Templeton Music Education benefit that’s now in its 10th year and has raised more than $100,000 for its cause.

This is a daytripper event, but there’s yoga, art, tons of kids’ activities, and a really cool family vibe. You can get all the details at whalerockmusicfestival.com, but Saturday headliner is Grammy-nominated singersongwriter Marcus King. Born in Greenville, South Carolina, he’s the son of Marvin King, a regionally known blues guitarist who played in gospel acts. Marcus began playing shows with his dad as an 8-year-old, and in his teens started playing what he and his bandmates called “soul-influenced psychedelic Southern Rock.”

Waterhouse & Windsong on Saturday, July 1, and Josh Cook on Sunday, July 2 Both shows run from 1 to 3 p.m., and the restaurant located inside the Cambria-based hotel is offering an expanded barbecue menu for the holiday (hot dogs, brats, burgers, and beyond burgers). Roll into the fourth in style.

Get Whale Rock on your radar

Now that the 2023 Live Oak Music Festival is in the books, it’s time to get serious about The

In 2019, he released his debut solo album, El Dorado, produced by Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, which received a 2020 Grammy nomination as Best Americana Album. He’s sophomore effort, Young Blood, was released in 2020. This is a terrific new onthe-rise talent. You’ll also see sets by NOLA soul act NTH Power, mandolin virtuoso Sierra Hull, and more on Saturday.

The Sunday headliner is Americana roots band The Wood Brothers, whose newest record is Heart Is The Hero, released in April. Also expect sets by funky and jazzy The Fearless Flyers, guitar virtuoso Cory Wong, and more. ∆ Contact Senior Staff Writer

ALL STARS WAR saxophonist Scott Martin will lead the Scott Martin Quartet with special guests at Libretto in Paso Robles on June 30

TICKETS! Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Marcus King plays the Whale Rock Music Festival on Sept. 16 , and though it’s months away, don’t miss out by waiting.

COURTESY PHOTO BY DANNY CLINCH

Vegan nonprofit recognizes outstanding SLO County restaurants with plant-based menus

One restaurant draws inspiration from Syria, while another specializes in Ethiopian cuisine. Both family-owned eateries are plant-based standouts recognized by Central Coast Vegans’ Best of SLO County awards for 2023.

From a field of dozens of vegan and veganoption menus countywide, the nonprofit San Luis Obispo-based organization handed out 13 awards in June.

Y’Not Organic of Pismo Beach and Ebony of SLO won Best in SLO County (Pure Plant-Based) and Best World Cuisine (Pure Vegan), respectively.

“My family and I originally came from Syria in 1999,” said Y’Not Organic owner and founder Nabil Fadel of Arroyo Grande. “I was 18 years old back then. We grew up on an apple orchard farm in a village called Rabah Jabal El Helou—translated to ‘sweet mountain’—on the Mediterranean Sea. My nieces are first generation here. Our cuisine

draws inspiration from local ingredients, fruit, and vegetables with Mediterranean influence.” Fadel, who also owns Hapy Bistro in Pismo, said: “We feel very honored to have been selected Best in SLO County for our pure plant-based cuisine and humbled that this honor was earned through the votes from within our local community.”

Fadel attributes the win to his family’s cultural values.

“From the start we set out to share from the table of my origin—95 percent plantbased, organic, and nonGMO,” he said. “Our culture is all about eating clean, pure, and leaning into the joy of sharing a meal with family and friends.

“What we do and what we offer is organically who we are, and I believe that flows straight through to our customer.”

Y’Not, which in reverse spells Tony, Fadel’s grandfather, was founded in 2016. Seven years later, “our convictions and commitment to doing what we do remains stronger today than ever before,” Fadel said.

Customer favorites at Y’Not are the California BLTA, with vegan tempeh bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado; the black bean burger with roasted beets and grilled onions; and the Mexi Bowl, with a zesty array of proteins and vegetables.

The eatery also serves smoothies, açai bowls, desserts, and specialty coffee and tea, with future plans for organic beer and wine.

“We are always working to keep our menu seasonal and fresh, and … share new ideas and dish inspirations that are gathered during our world travel,” Fadel said.

He also partners with local suppliers, “too many to name,” he added. “We appreciate them all and the common convictions they share toward growing quality greens, fruits, and vegetables.”

Central Coast Vegans’ Best World Cuisine recipient also specializes in the flavors and traditions of its founders’ homeland.

Operating out of The Terminal Kitchen in SLO, Ebony is the collaboration of four Ethiopian women, two of whom are silent partners.

Executive Chef Helen Abraha and head chef Martha Taezaz helm the kitchen. They are also sisters.

Born in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, Abraha splits her time between SLO and West Orange, N.J.—where she has family and other business interests—while Taezaz resides in SLO full time.

The sisters were elated by the recognition of their restaurant, launched in 2021.

“It feels amazing to be named Best World Cuisine in the SLO County awards,” Abraha said. “My partners and I have worked extremely hard to get where we are today, and I’m so proud of us and I’m thankful for all the support we have had from the community and our loyal customers.

“We are also so grateful that people appreciate and always mention how clean our food is and how great they feel after [eating it].

“We are proud to use organic ingredients and cook with zero refined oils and additives

… and that keeps many coming back.”

Popular dishes at Ebony, which primarily offers takeout with limited outdoor seating, include misir wot, a spicy red lentil stew; as well as potatoes; green beans; and enguday tibs (sauteed mushrooms).

Ebony’s vegan menu also recently caught the attention of Edible San Luis Obispo magazine, which invited Abraha to join its

CUSTOMER FAVORITE Y’Not Organic’s Mexi Bowl features brown rice, adzuki beans, jalapeño aioli, and tempeh chorizo garnished with carrot, radish, green onion, cucumber, cilantro, and microgreens.

PURE GRATITUDE Sally Fadel, left, cashier and food preparer at Y’Not Organic in Pismo Beach, and Elisa Fadel, cook and assistant manager, accept Central Coast Vegans’ award for Best in SLO County (Pure Plant-Based) for 2023. Owner Nabil Fadel is their uncle.

GLOBAL GOURMANDS Chefs and sisters Martha Taezaz, left, and Helen Abraha of Ebony Ethiopian restaurant in San Luis Obispo are excited to be named Central Coast Vegans’ Best World Cuisine (Pure Vegan) for 2023.

MID-STATE FAIR

BOOK ADS BY: July 7

PUBLICATION DATE: July 13

BOOK ADS BY: July 21

PUBLICATION DATE: July 27

Winners of our annual 55 Fiction writing contest will be published

2023 Immigrant Dinner Series.

“We are very excited about that and can’t believe we will be part of it,” Abraha said. “We [will] introduce new dishes at the event and present … the story behind the food and our culture.”

The dinner will be held on Oct. 3 at Thomas Hill Organics in Paso Robles.

Another coup for Ebony this year was being selected as a Cal Poly dinner and event vendor.

“That’s a dream come true,” Abraha said. “We are also hoping to find a small space of our own in the future, but we will just let things happen organically for now.”

Central Coast Vegans recognized 11 other eateries in its Best of SLO County competition, an imperfect science based on Yelp reviews and a panel of vegans and plant-based consumers, according to Patrick Kerans, president of the group.

Awardees in various categories included Bliss, Linnea’s Café, and SLO Food Co-op in SLO; Shine Café in Morro Bay; Virtjuice in Arroyo Grande; Red Scooter Deli in Paso Robles; and Hidden Kitchen, SloDoCo, Taco Temple, The Neighborhood Acai & Juice Bar, and Ziggy’s, with multiple SLO County locations.

“CCV is pleased to see the continuing growth in plant-based food options throughout SLO County, with 11 pure plantbased restaurants and 20-plus restaurants with clearly labeled vegan options on their menus,” he said.

When the group launched in 2017, vegan eateries were sparse. Their growing ranks in recent years have been propelled by increased awareness of the benefits of a plant-based diet to health, the environment, and animals, he added.

He hopes to support industry entrepreneurs by providing website listings free of charge, organizing meet-up events at different restaurants, and offering a partner card program for $20 that provides 10 percent off at participating eateries.

Additionally, he plans to “continue to measure the emerging plant-based food economy in the county via the annual awards program and use this information as a means of generating awareness about opportunities it represents for … job creators and the county’s ability to attract tourists to our area,” he said.

“A visit to LA, San Diego, or other large cities shows us that this trend is real and that visitors to our area look for these options.” ❍

Flavor Writer Cherish Whyte applauds Central Coast Vegans’ Best of SLO County award winners and their delicious dining options. Reach her at cwhyte@newtimesslo.com.

BOOK ADS BY: August 4 PUBLICATION DATE: August 10

Lunch - $14.99

Mon-Sat 11:30am – 2:30pm

Monday Dinner Buffet - $15.99

5:00pm – 9:30pm

Sunday Brunch - $15.99

Served with one champagne or Lassi

SPICY STANDOUT Ebony’s misir wot (center) or red lentil stew, is slow-simmered with onion, garlic, ginger, and berbere —a popular Ethiopian spice blend containing chili peppers, black cardamom, bishop’s weed, sacred basil, and thyme.

City of Arroyo Grande

Summer

Summer 2023 Concert Series

This FREE outdoor event is kicking off this summer on the 4th of July and held every Sunday following from 1 - 3 pm at Heritage Square Park.

Affordable Housing

Opening soon, join the waitlist today! This new 62+ senior living development in Santa Ynez offers an affordable housing option for low-income seniors, allowing them to live in a comfortable and safe environment at a price that is customized to accommodate each resident’s unique budget.

Beautiful Location Santa Ynez is a picturesque area with scenic views, which can offer a peaceful and serene environment for seniors to enjoy. Shopping and services are all conveniently located nearby

Supportive Community Harry's House offers a community with other seniors who share similar interests and support one another

Available Services

• 3 meals per day, 7 days per week

• All utilities, Internet service, Cox cable service, & private landline with unlimited local and long-distance calls

• Bi-monthly housekeeping

• Weekday transportation for medical appointments, shopping, and field trips

• Maintenance Staff

• Full activity curriculum & monthly calendar of events

• Health advocacy and assistance accessing community resources

• On site laundry facilities

• Library

• Business services, copy, fax, stamps available for purchase

• Beauty/Barber shop

• Wellness programs, community partnerships, exercise programs, preventive health speakers, on-site visits from health care professionals, nutrition programs, and outdoor walks

• And more!

Classies

2010 FORD EDGE AWD SEL

3.5 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm/cd, pearl white, tan lthr, pan roof, prem whls, nav, 2pseats. #A89499 $9,988

2015 KIA FORTE LX SEDAN

Real Estate

1.8 4 cyl, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm cd, gray pearl, 93k miles. #259775 $10,988

2013 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LAREDO

3.6 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm cd, white, alloys. #574179

HEALING

Aloe Care Health, medical alert system. The most advanced medical alert product on the market. Voice-activated! No wi-fi needed! Special offer call and mention offer code CARE20 to get $20 off Mobile Companion. Call today 1-844-790-1673. (SCAN)

2015 CHRYSLER 200C SEDAN

3.6 V6, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm cd, 2 pseats, alloys, 69k low miles. #509660 $14,988

2015 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY TOURING

V6, 6 spd, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm cd, dk blue, black lthr, pseat, 87k low miles. #697096

1998 CHEVROLET CORVETTE COUPE 2D

5.7 V8, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl cc, tw, am/fm/cd, prem snd, leather, alloys, black. #110107 $14,988

2007 CHEVY 1500 CREW CAB

5.3 V8, 4 cyl, at, ac, pw, cc, tw, am/fm cd, lthr. #553509

6.7 Turbo Diesel, at, ac, ps, pw, pdl, cc, tw, am/fm cd, 2pseats, tow, prem whls, new tires. #A95052

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: MARY ELIZABETH

CONIGLIO AKA MARY MENICHETTI AKA MARY CONTI

CASE NO. 23PR-0142

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of MARY ELIZABETH CONIGLIO AKA MARY MENICHETTI AKA MARY CONTI.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by MICHAEL J. MENICHETTI in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN LUIS OBISPO.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that MICHAEL J. MENICHETTI be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows:

07/11/23 at 9:01AM in Dept. 4 located at 1035 PALM STREET, RM. 385, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93408

Your hearing will be in person or via zoom.

(Probate) MEETING ID: 160 407 5307

PASSWORD: 79513

You may also access the Zoom information form the court website at https://www.slo.courts. ca.gov

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner MONICA M. O’HEARN - SBN 324533, THE ALVAREZ FIRM, A LAW CORPORATION

760 PASEO CAMARILLO, SUITE

315 CAMARILLO CA 93010 6/22, 6/29, 7/6/23 CNS-3712114#

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE. TS 42084 Ln SLTP TO 2242589CAD. YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 1/30/2019. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. NOTICE: ALL AMERICAN FORECLOSURE SERVICE, AS TRUSTEE, WILL NOT ACCEPT THIRD PARTY ENDORSED CASHIER’S CHECKS. ALL CASHIER’S CHECKS MUST BE PAYABLE DIRECTLY TO ALL AMERICAN FORECLOSURE SERVICE. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale.

Trustor: San Luis Town Properties, a California Limited Liability Company, Duly Appointed Trustee: All American Foreclosure Service. Recorded 2/7/2019 as Instrument No. 2019004400 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of San Luis Obispo County, California. Date of Sale: 7/13/2023 at 11:00 AM. Place of Sale: In the breezeway adjacent to the County General Services Bldg. located at 1087 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. Amount of unpaid balance and other charges:

$937,271.33. Street Address or other common designation of real property: 1010, 1030 and 1050 Orcutt Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. A.P.N.: 004-962-028 . The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale .. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of the monies paid to the trustee and the successful bidder shall have no recourse. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, or the Mortgagee’s Attorney. NOTICE

TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property.

You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property.

more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (805) 543-7088 or visit this Internet Web site www.eloandata.com, using the file number assigned to this case 42084. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction.

There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (805) 543-7088, or visit this internet website www. eloandata.com, using the file number assigned to this case 42084 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee.

Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. Date: 6/19/2023. All American Foreclosure Service, 1363 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 543-7088. Sheryle A. Machado, Certified Trustee Sale Officer june

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF BULK SALE AND OF INTENTNION TO TRANSFER ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE

LICENSE

(U.C.C. 6101 et seq. and B & P 24074 et seq.)

Escrow No. 43344

Notice is hereby given that a bulk sale of assets and a transfer of alcoholic beverage license is about to be made.

The names and addresses of the Seller/Licensee are:

Alanna d. mah, 2476 Main Street, Cambria, ca 93428

The Business is known as:

Olallieberry Inn

The names and addresses of the Buyer/Transferee are: Papikian Enterprises LLC, 3609 W. Magill Ave, Fresno, Ca 93711

As listed by the Seller/Licensee, all other business names and addresses used by the Seller/Licensee within three years before the date such list was sent or delivered to the Buyer/Transferee are: NONE

The assets to be sold are described in general as: all stock in trade, furniture, fixtures, and equipment, intangible assets, ABC license and goodwill and are located at: 2476 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428

The kind of license to be transferred is: Special On-Sale Wine Bed and Breakfast Inn, Type 67, No. 615974 now issued for the premises located at: 2476 Main Street, Cambria, CA 93428.

The anticipated date of the sale/transfer is July 18, 2023 at the office of All Brokers Escrow, Inc., 2924 W. Magnolia Blvd. Burbank, CA 91505.

The amount of the purchase price or consideration in connection with the transfer of the license and business, including the estimated inventory, is the sum of $50,000, which consists of the following:

Description Amount Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment 48,000.00

ABC License 2,000

TOTAL ALLOCATION 50,000

It has been agreed between the Seller/Licensee and the intended Buyer/Transferee, as required by Sec. 24073 of the Business and Professions Code, that the consideration for the transfer of the business and license is to be paid only after the transfer has been approved by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.

Dated:June 15, 2023

Papikian Enterprises LLC, a California Limited Liability Company

By: S/ Hovanes Papikian, Manager

By: S/ Anait Papikian, Managing Member 6/29/23

There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case.

The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case.

¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación. Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia.

Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

The name and address of the court is (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA, 312-C East Cook Street, Santa Maria, CA 93454

Mailing Address of Applicant: 3607 W. MAGILL AVE, FRESNO, CA 93711

Kind of License Intended To Be Transferred: SPECIAL ON-SALE WINE BED AND BREAKFAST INN, TYPE 67, NO. 615974 Escrow Holder/Guarantor Name: ALL BROKERS ESCROW INC Escrow Holder/Guarantor Address: 2924 W MAGNOLIA BLD, BURBANK, CA 91505

Total consideration to be paid for business and license; including inventory, whether actual cost, estimated cost, or a not-to-exceed amount): CASH: $50,000.00

TOTAL AMOUNT $50,000

The parties agree that the consideration for the transfer of the business and the license(s) is to be paid only after the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control has approved the proposed transfer.

The parties also agree and herein direct the above-named escrow holder to make payment of distribution within a reasonable time after the completion of the transfer of the license as provided in Section 24074 of the California Business and Professions Code.

Date signed: 6/15/2023

S/ ALANNA D. MAH Licensee(s)/Transferor(s)

Date signed: 6-16-23

S/ HOVANES PAPIKIAN, MANAGING MEMBER PAPIKIAN ENTERPRISES, LLC Applicant(s)/Transferee(s)

6/29/23

CNS-3714449# NEW TIMES

CNS-3714450# NEW TIMES

SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL)

CASE NUMBER (Número del Caso): 22CV04743

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): DANIELLE M JOSEPH, YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF (LO ESTÁ DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): ONEMAIN FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC AS SERVICER FOR (ASF) WILMINGTON TRUST, N.A., AS ISSUER LOAN TRUSTEE FOR ONEMAIN FINANCIAL ISSUANCE TRUST 2020-1

NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo. ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo. ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements.

You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. ¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación. Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVI-

The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is (El nombre, la dirección y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): HARLAN

M. REESE, ESQ. (CA BAR NO.: 118226), REESE LAW GROUP, 3168 Lionshead Avenue, Carlsbad, CA 92010; 760/842-5850 (File No. 113021)

DATE (Fecha): 12/1/2022

Clerk (Secretario), by /s/ ISABEL NAVARRO, Deputy (Adjunto) (SEAL) 6/29, 7/6, 7/13, 7/20/23

CNS-3712157# NEW TIMES

SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL)

CASE NUMBER (Número del Caso): 22EC-0224

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): CASSANDRA RICE, YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF (LO ESTÁ DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): WELLS FARGO BANK, N. A.

NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online

SO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

The name and address of the court is (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): Superior Court of California, County of SAN LUIS OBISPO 1035 Palm St., Room 385, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408

The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is (El nombre, la dirección y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): Claudia Gavrilescu, Esq. (CA Bar No.: 333030), REESE LAW GROUP, 3168 Lionshead Avenue, Carlsbad, CA 92010; 760/842-5850 (File No.

SAN LUIS COASTAL UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

NOTICE FOR SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF BULK FUEL THROUGH JUNE 30, 2024

Notice is hereby given that the San Luis Coastal Unified School District (hereinafter referred to as “Owner”) will receive bids prior to the date and time stated below for the award of a contract for the Supply and Delivery of the District’s Bulk Fuel required through June 30, 2024, with an annual renewal option to extend the term of this contract for four (4) additional one (1) year term upon mutual written consent.

The Request for Bids is available from the San Luis Coastal Online Planroom @ www.asapreprographics.com.

Bids must be sealed and filed at the Facilities Office of the Owner at:

San Luis Coastal Unified School District Building, Grounds, & Transportation Department 937 Southwood Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

On July 5, 2023, before 10:00:00 a.m. No Bid will be accepted by the Owner after this time. Facsimile (FAX) copies of the Bid will not be accepted.

Kelly Lee

Facilities Analyst

San Luis Coastal Unified School District

June 29, 2023

SAN LUIS COASTAL UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE FOR GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING SERVICES

Notice is hereby given that the San Luis Coastal Unified School District (hereinafter referred to as “Owner”) will receive proposals prior to the date and time stated below for the award of a contract for duly qualified and licensed Geotechnical Engineering Services on various projects. San Luis Coastal Unified passed a $349 million dollar bond measure in November, 2022. The focus of this measure is the modernization of the district’s 10 elementary schools, 2 middle schools and a continuation high school. Prior to the bond measures success, the district developed a Facility Master Plan. The master plan along with the district’s deferred maintenance plan will make up the projects associated with this RFQP and licensed geotechnical engineering services needed.

The Request for Proposals is available from the San Luis Coastal Online Planroom @ www.asapreprographics.com.

Proposals must be sealed and filed at the Facilities Office of the Owner at: San Luis Coastal Unified School District Building, Grounds, & Transportation Department 937 Southwood Drive San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 on July 5, 2023 before 10:00:00 a.m. No proposal will be accepted by the Owner after this time. Facsimile (FAX) copies of the proposal will not be accepted.

Kelly Lee

Facilities Analyst

San Luis Coastal Unified School District

June 22 & 29, 2023

COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING BRIEF

TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 2023 AT 9:00 AM

5 BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT

01. Consent Agenda – Item Nos. 1-34, added Item Nos. 45 & 46 & Resolution (Res) Nos. 2023-145 thru 2023-156, approved.

02. Public Comment Period – Items not on the agenda: G. Ricker; L. Owen; C. Mamakos; G. Grewal; N. Shaw & M. Carmen: speak.

03. Appointment of E. Schaefer to Airport Land Use Commission, approved.

04. Annual report presentation by the Sun Street Centers recovery program, rec’d & filed.

05. Res. 2023-157, suspending the automatic annual 2% increase to the commercial cannabis business tax rate for FY 2023-24 & Res. 2023-158 reducing the commercial cannabis business tax rate from 8% to 6% of gross receipts, adopted as amended w/ direction provided to staff.

06. Closed Session. Anticipated Litigation: Significant exposure to litigation - potential cases:

3. Initiation of litigation - potential cases: 3. Pending Litigation: Existing Litigation re: Application filed by PG&E in the 2021 Nuclear Cost Triennial Proceeding (U39E A 21-12-007). 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. Personnel: Public Employee Annual Performance Evaluation for the position of Interim Co. Administrative Officer. Conference w/ Real Property Negotiator: re: APN 062-271023; 024, 062-051-021; 022, 062-271-006, 062-271-026, 062-271001; 003; 027, 062-261-022; 080; 079, and 062-261-079. Agency Negotiators: J. Nilon; R. Campbell; L. Howe; M. Trevelyn. Parties Negotiating: Oceano CSD, W. Clemens. Instructions: price, terms & conditions. Open Session. Report out.

07. Ordinance No. 3495, amending §2.44.070 of the Co. Code re: holidays & time off.

08. Res. 2023-159, FY 2023-24 Recommended Budget for the County & Board of Supervisors governed Special Districts & Res. 2023160, FY 2023-24 Position Allocation List, adopted.

09. Update re: the Tri-Co. Regional Energy Network’s program metrics from 2019-2022, review of current & future programs, rec’d & filed.

10. Res. 2023-161, partially denying the appeal by R. Allan, (APPL2023-00004) of the Planning Commission’s approval of a vesting tentative tract map & conditional use permit (SUB202000027/TR3138) to subdivide an existing undeveloped 10.88 parcel into 15 parcels ranging between 0.56 acre & 1.3 acres each for the purpose of sale & future development of each proposed parcel for residential uses, adopted as amended.

MEETING ADJOURNED

For more details, view the meeting videos at: https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/Departments/Administrative-Office/ Clerk-of-the-Board/Clerk-of-the-Board-Services/ Board-of-Supervisors-Meetings-and-Agendas.aspx

John Nilon, Interim County Administrative Officer & Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of Supervisors

By: Annette Ramirez, Deputy Clerk of the Board of Supervisors

June 29, 2023

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:

$15,328.00 IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY

Notice is hereby given that on May 19, 2023, the abovedescribed property was seized at or near 2121 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446, by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, in connection with cannabis violations, to wit, section(s) 11351, 11378, and 11370.1 of the California Health and Safety Code. The estimated/appraised value of the property is $15,328.00.

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: June 19, 2023

DAN DOW

District Attorney

Kenneth Jorgensen Deputy District Attorney

ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS

Applications to make minor changes to the properties at the addresses listed below have been received by the City.

1. 736 Orcutt Rd. MOD-0249-2023; Review of a modification to an approved three-story mixed-use development consisting of 40 residential units for lowincome households, and 850 square feet of commercial space (ARCH-0221-2021). The modification includes a side yard setback exception of approximately one foot for a small portion of the structure, where 5 feet is normally required. Project is categorically exempt from environmental review (CEQA); C-S Zone; Housing Authority of City of SLO, applicant. (Kyle Bell)

2. 892 Aerovista Pl. ARCH-0141-2023; Review of the placement of required public art on private property (categorically exempt from CEQA environmental review); BP-SP Zone; Matthew Quaglino, applicant. (Walter Oetzell)

3. 175 Venture Dr. FNCE-0194-2023; Request to allow a Wall/Fence Height Exception for retaining walls # 2, 5, 6, 7, 13, 15, and 16 of Tract 3089 (Avila Ranch) in Phases 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. Proposed retaining walls vary in height from 2 feet to 8.33 feet, and include either a 6-foottall wood fence or a 42-inch-tall open metal fence on top of the retaining walls. The combined height of the retaining walls and fences is proposed over 9 feet tall for portions of the walls. This project is categorically exempt from environmental review (CEQA); R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, C-N, C/OS, and PF-SP Zones, Avila Ranch Development Plan area, Airport Area Specific Plan; Avila Ranch Developers, LLP, applicant. (Callie Taylor)

4. Public Rights-Of-Way. DIR-0305-2023; Night work for pavement treatment and striping along sections of Orcutt Road, Johnson Avenue, Santa Barbara Avenue, Monterey Street, California Boulevard, and Morro Street. The project will take place within the roadway and not within any properties; Public Right-Of-Way; Souza Construction, applicant. (Graham Bultema)

The Community Development Director will either approve or deny these applications no sooner than July 10, 2023

The Director’s decision may be appealed, and must be filed with the appropriate appeal fee within 10 days of the Director’s action. For more information, contact the City of San Luis Obispo Community Development Department, 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, stop by Monday and Wednesday between 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday between 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., or call (805) 781-7170, weekdays, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

June 29, 2023

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

WHO: San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors

WHEN: Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. All items are advertised for 9:00 a.m. To find out placement of this item on the Board of Supervisors Agenda, go to the County’s website at www.slocounty.ca.gov on the Wednesday before the scheduled hearing date.

WHAT: Hearing to consider an appeal (APPL2023-00005) by John Rourke of the Planning Commission’s denial of a request by John Rourke/Congregation Beth David for a Tentative Tract Map (TR3169) (SUB2021-00025) to subdivide an existing 92acre parcel into 8 parcels: four approximately 2.5-acre parcels intended for future residential development, one 20-acre parcel containing Congregation Beth David, one 5.92 acre parcel to be designated for a low income residence and possible mixeduse development, and two larger parcels of 20.12 acres and 35.93 acres. The division would create one on-site private roadway. The proposed project is within the Agriculture Land Use category and is located at 10180 Los Osos Valley Rd. The site is in the San Luis Obispo sub-area of the San Luis Obispo Planning Area. District 2.

County File Number: APPL2023-00005

Assessor Parcel Number: 067-091-017, 067-091-018

Supervisorial District: 2

Date Accepted: September 30, 2022

WHERE: The hearing will be held in the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1055 Monterey St., Room #D170, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, CA. The Board of Supervisors Chambers are located on the corner of Santa Rosa and Monterey Streets. At the hearing all interested persons may express their views for or against, or to change the proposal.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: You may contact Cheryl Ku, Project Manager, in the San Luis Obispo County Department of Planning and Building, 976 Osos Street, Room 300, San Luis Obispo, California 93408, (805) 781-5600. The staff report will be available for review the Wednesday before the scheduled hearing date on the County’s website at www.slocounty.ca.gov

ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION: Also to be considered at the hearing will be the environmental exemption that applies to the item. The project is found to be statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under the provisions of Public Resources Code section 21080(b)(5), which provides that CEQA does not apply to projects which a public agency rejects or disapproves.

**If you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this public notice or in written correspondence delivered to the appropriate authority at or before the public hearing**

DATED: June 27, 2023

JOHN NILON, EX-OFFICIO CLERK OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

June 22, 29, & July 6, 2023

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:

$3,349.00 IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY

Notice is hereby given that on January 5, 2023, the above-described property was seized at or near 3065 S. Higuera Street, CA 93401, by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, in connection with cannabis violations, to wit, section(s) 11351, 11378, and 11370.1 of the California Health and Safety Code. The estimated/appraised value of the property is $3,349.00.

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: June 19, 2023 DAN DOW District Attorney

Kenneth Jorgensen Deputy District Attorney

The San Luis Obispo Planning Commission will hold a Regular Meeting on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. Meetings can be viewed on Government Access Channel 20 or streamed live from the City’s YouTube channel at http://youtube.slo.city 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

PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS:

• Request for a Safe Parking Program Administrator Permit for CAPSLO to operate a rotating safe parking program throughout the city with the intention of providing individuals and families experiencing homelessness a safe place to temporarily park their vehicle overnight to facilitate the transition to permanent housing. Project is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review; Project Location: Citywide; Case #: USE-0304-2023; CAPSLO, applicant.

Contact Information: Daisy Wiberg – (805) 781-7025 –dwiberg@slocity.org

• Review of revisions to the project design for development of the Motel Inn property with an 83-room hotel. The revision replaces 27 Airstream trailer installations on the eastern portion of the site (“Parcel 3”) with construction of 13 “bungalow” guestroom buildings, and installation of a 12-foot tall sound wall along the northern boundary of the property. The application includes a request for an exception from wall height standards for the sound wall. An Addendum to the Mitigated Negative Declaration adopted for the project has been prepared pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); Project Address: 2223 Monterey Street; Case #: ARCH-0327-2021; Zone: C-T-S; Motel Inn, L.P., applicant.

Contact Information: Walter Oetzell – (805) 781-7593 –woetzell@slocity.org

By /s/Sandy

Currens, Deputy Clerk June 29, 2023

June 22, 29, & July 6, 2023

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 http://youtube.slo.city June 29, 2023

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PROPOSALS will be received at the office of the City Clerk, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, California, until 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, July 20, 2023 as determined by www.time.gov for performing work as follows:

RIGHT OF WAY CONSULTANT SERVICES FOR THE CLIFF AVE & OCEAN BLVD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

This project is federally funded through Caltrans Department of Local Assistance (DLA) and is therefore subject to Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 26 (49 CFR 26) entitled “Participation by Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Department of Transportation Financial Assistance Programs.” The City hereby notifies all proposers that it will affirmatively ensure that in any agreement entered into pursuant to this advertisement, Disadvantage Business Enterprises (DBEs) will be afforded full opportunity to submit proposals in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, or disability in consideration for an award.

Consultants shall take necessary and reasonable steps to ensure that DBE subconsultants have an opportunity to augment their team. The City has established a DBE Goal of 8%. Consultants responding to the RFP will be required to meet this goal or document that a good faith effort was made to meet the goal prior to awarding the contract. Consultant services are anticipated to generally include, but are not limited to the services required assist the City of Pismo Beach in acquiring final Right of Way Certification as defined in Chapter 13 of the Local Assistance Manual LAPM and the Right of Way Manual. These services must comply with all Federal, State, and City requirements and are in conformance with the Federal Highway Administration’s Emergency Relief Program.

Proposal packages may be obtained from the Public Works Department, Engineering Division, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449 or by calling (805) 773-4656. Printed versions are available for a non-refundable fee of $150 and PDF versions may be emailed at no charge. Specific questions will be accepted in writing up to 72 hours before the proposal due date and time by emailing Erin Olsen at eolsen@pismobeach.org

ERICA INDERLIED

CITY CLERK

June 29 & July 6, 2023

CITY OF PISMO BEACH STATE OF CALIFORNIA  NOTICE TO BIDDERS

BIDS will be received at the office of the City Clerk, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, California, until 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, July 20, 2023 as determined by www.time.gov for performing work as follows:

JAMES WAY BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT

Before submitting bids, Contractors shall be licensed in accordance with the Laws of the State of California. Accordingly, the successful Bidder shall possess a Class A, General Engineering, Contractor’s License at the time this contract is awarded.

Project Plans and Specifications are available at the Engineering Division office located at 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, CA, 93449.

A non-refundable fee of $275 per set will be charged. Electronic Plans and Specifications are available via email at no charge. Questions will be accepted in writing up to 96 hours before bid closing by emailing Eric Eldridge at eeldridge@pismobeach.org. Questions regarding bid procedure or other non-technical questions can be asked by emailing Erin Olsen at eolsen@pismobeach.org or by calling (805) 773-4656.

ERICA INDERLIED CITY CLERK

June 22 & 29, 2023

CITY OF PISMO BEACH STATE OF CALIFORNIA  NOTICE TO PROPOSERS

PROPOSALS will be received at the office of the City Clerk, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, California, until 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, July 20, 2023 as determined by www.time.gov for performing work as follows:

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, INSPECTION AND ADMINISTRATION SERVICES FOR THE JAMES WAY BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT

The project includes a Base Bid and three Bid Alternates for removal of existing concrete between the sidewalk and fence line and installation of new landscaping and related site improvements along the James Way corridor.

Proposal packages may be obtained from the Public Works Department, Engineering Division, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449 or by calling (805) 773-4656. Printed versions of this request for proposals are available for a non-refundable fee of $275 and PDF versions may be emailed at no charge by contacting Erin Olsen at eolsen@pismobeach.org. For specific questions regarding the proposal please call Eric Eldridge at (805) 773-4656 or email eeldridge@pismobeach.org.

ERICA INDERLIED CITY CLERK

June 22 & 29, 2023

Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 5473 and County Ordinance Nos. 3209 and 3413, by which service charges may be collected on the general County tax bill, the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Luis Obispo will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at 9:00 a.m., in the Board of Supervisors Chambers, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, regarding the collection of sewer service charges on the FY 2023-24 tax roll for the Los Osos Sewer Service Area.

All hearing items are scheduled for 9:00 a.m. To determine the placement of this item on the agenda, please contact the County Administrative Office the Thursday afternoon before the scheduled hearing date. The report describing the service charges proposed to be collected on the FY 2023-24 tax roll is on file in the Office of the Clerk of the Board and is available for public review.

Date:

June 21, 2023

JOHN

NILON Interim County Administrative Officer and Ex-Officio Clerk of

the Board of Supervisors

By: /s/Sandy Currens Deputy Clerk

June 22 & 29, 2023

SAN LUIS OBISPO CREEK

EMERGENCY BANK STABILIZATION

PROJECT NEAR JOHNSON AVENUE

SPEC. NO. 2000035

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the City of San Luis Obispo will receive bids by mail for the “SAN LUIS OBISPO CREEK

EMERGENCY BANK STABILIZATION PROJECT NEAR JOHNSON AVENUE, Spec. No. 2000035” at the Public Works Administration Office located at 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 until, THURSDAY, July 13, 2023, at 2:00 P.M when they will be publicly opened.

Bids received after said time will not be considered. Bids shall be submitted in a sealed envelope plainly marked with the project title, contractor name, address, and specification number.

The Contractor must possess a valid Class A Contractor’s License at the time of the bid opening. Every bid must be accompanied by a certified check/cashier’s check or bidder’s bond for 10% of the bid amount, payable to the City of San Luis Obispo.

Download FREE at the City’s website: www.SloCity.orgBid packages under Bids & Proposals. Questions may be addressed to Wyatt Banker-Hix, Project Manager, at 805-2951609 or wbanker@slocity.org

June 29, 2023

MID-STATE FAIR

Free Will Astrology

by Rob Brezsny

Homework: Find a way to sing as loudly and passionately as possible sometime soon. Newsletter.freewillastrology.com

ARIES

(March 21-April 19): Visionary author Peter McWilliams wrote, “One of the most enjoyable aspects of solitude is doing what you want when you want to do it, with the absolute freedom to change what you’re doing at will. Solitude removes all the ‘negotiating’ we need to do when we’re with others.” I’ll add a caveat: Some of us have more to learn about enjoying solitude. We may experience it as a loss or deprivation. But here’s the good news, Aries: In the coming weeks, you will be extra inspired to cultivate the benefits that come from being alone.

TAURUS

(April 20-May 20): The 18th century French engineer Étienne Bottineau invented nauscopy, the art of detecting sailing ships at a great distance, well beyond the horizon. This was before the invention of radar. Bottineau said his skill was not rooted in sorcery or luck, but from his careful study of changes in the atmosphere, wind, and sea. Did you guess that Bottineau was a Taurus? Your tribe has a special capacity for arriving at seemingly magical understandings by harnessing your sensitivity to natural signals. Your intuition thrives as you closely observe the practical details of how the world works. This superpower will be at a peak in the coming weeks.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): According to a Welsh proverb, “Three fears weaken the heart: fear of the truth; fear of the devil; fear of poverty.” I suspect the first of those three is most likely to worm its way into your awareness during the coming weeks. So let’s see what we can do to diminish its power over you. Here’s one possibility: Believe me when I tell you that even if the truth’s arrival is initially disturbing or disruptive, it will ultimately be healing and liberating. It should be welcomed, not feared.

CANCER

(June 21-July 22): Hexes nullified! Jinxes abolished! Demons banished! Adversaries outwitted! Liabilities diminished! Bad habits replaced with good habits! These are some of the glorious developments possible for you in the coming months, Cancerian. Am I exaggerating? Maybe a little. But if so, not much. In my vision of your future, you will be the embodiment of a lucky charm and a repository of blessed mojo. You are embarking on a phase when it will make logical sense to be an optimist. Can you sweep all the dross and mess out of your sphere? No, but I bet you can do at least 80 percent.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22): In the book Curious Facts in the History of Insects, Frank Cowan tells a perhaps legendary story about how mayors were selected in the medieval Swedish town of Hurdenburg. The candidates would set their chins on a table with their long beards spread out in front of them. A louse, a tiny parasitic insect, would be put in the middle of the table. Whichever beard the creature crawled to and chose as its new landing spot would reveal the man who would become the town’s new leader. I beg you not to do anything like this, Leo. The decisions you and your allies make should be grounded in good evidence and sound reason, not blind chance. And please avoid parasitical influences completely.

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): I rebel against the gurus and teachers who tell us our stories are delusional indulgences that interfere with our enlightenment. I reject their insistence that our personal tales are distractions from our spiritual work. Virgo author A. S. Byatt speaks for me: “Narration is as much a part of human nature as breath and the circulation of the blood.” I love and honor the stories of my own destiny, and I encourage you to love and honor yours. Having said that, I will let you know that now is an excellent time to jettison the stories that feel demoralizing and draining—even as you celebrate the stories that embody your genuine beauty. For extra credit: Tell the soulful stories of your life to anyone who is receptive.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In the Mayan calendar, each of the 20 day names is associated with a natural phenomenon. The day called Kawak is paired with rainstorms. Ik’ is connected with wind and breath. Kab’an is earth, Manik’ is deer, and Chikchan is the snake. Now would be a great time for you to engage in an imaginative exercise inspired by the Mayans. Why? Because this is an ideal phase of your cycle to break up your routine, to reinvent the regular rhythm, to introduce innovations in how you experience the flow of the time. Just for fun, why not give each of the next 14 days a playful nickname or descriptor? This Friday could be Crescent Moon, for example. Saturday might be Wonderment, Sunday can be Dazzle Sweet, and Monday Good Darkness.

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): From 998 till 1030, Scorpio-born leader Mahmud Ghaznavi ruled the vast Ghaznavid empire, which stretched from current-day Iran to central Asia and northwestern India. Like so many of history’s strong men, he was obsessed with military conquest. Unlike many others, though, he treasured culture and learning. You’ve heard of poet laureates? He had 400 of them. According to some tales, he rewarded one wordsmith with a mouthful of pearls. In accordance with astrological omens, I encourage you to be more like the Mahmud who loved beauty and art and less like the Mahmud who enjoyed fighting. The coming weeks will be a favorable time to fill your world with grace and elegance and magnificence.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): About 1,740 years ago, before she became a Catholic saint, Margaret of Antioch got swallowed whole by Satan, who was disguised as a dragon. Or so the old story goes. But Margaret was undaunted. There in the beast’s innards, Margaret calmly made the sign of the cross over and over with her right hand. Meanwhile, the wooden cross in her left hand magically swelled to an enormous size that ruptured the beast, enabling her to escape. After that, because of her triumph, expectant mothers and women in labor regarded Margaret as their patron saint. Your upcoming test won’t be anywhere near as demanding as hers, Sagittarius, but I bet you will ace it—and ultimately garner sweet rewards.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn-born Johannes Kepler (1571-1630) was an astronomer and mathematician who was an instrumental innovator in the Scientific Revolution. Among his many breakthrough accomplishments were his insights about the laws of planetary motion. Books he wrote were crucial forerunners of Isaac Newton’s theories about gravitation. But here’s an unexpected twist: Kepler was also a practicing astrologer who interpreted the charts of many people, including three emperors of the Holy Roman Empire. In the spirit of Kepler’s ability to bridge seemingly opposing perspectives, Capricorn, I invite you to be a paragon of mediation and conciliation in the coming weeks. Always be looking for ways to heal splits and forge connections. Assume you have an extraordinary power to blend elements that no one can else can.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Dear Restless Runaway: During the next 10 months, life will offer you these invitations: 1. Identify the land that excites you and stabilizes you. 2. Spend lots of relaxing time on that land. 3. Define the exact nature of the niche or situation where your talents and desires will be most gracefully expressed. 4. Take steps to create or gather the family you want. 5. Take steps to create or gather the community you want.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20): I’d love you to be a deep-feeling, free-thinker in the coming weeks. I will cheer you on if you nurture your emotional intelligence as you liberate yourself from outmoded beliefs and opinions. Celebrate your precious sensitivity, dear Pisces, even as you use your fine mind to reevaluate your vision of what the future holds. It’s a perfect time to glory in rich sentiments and exult in creative ideas. ∆