New Times, Dec. 28, 2023 by New Times Media Group, San Luis Obispo

DECEMBER 28, 2023 - JANUARY 4, 2024 • VOL. 38, NO. 24 • WWW.NEWTIMESSLO.COM • SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY’S NEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY

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Left behind SLO County is still recovering from 2023, starting with the historic damage wrought by January’s storms [8] BY NEW TIMES STAFF

Contents

December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024

Every week news

News....................................................4 Strokes ............................................10

opinion

Letters...............................................11 Modern World ..........................11 Rhetoric & Reason.............12 Shredder........................................13

events calendar

Hot Dates .....................................14

art

Artifacts ........................................ 20 Split Screen...............................22

music

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Strictly Starkey ......................24

the rest

Classifieds ..................................29 Brezsny’s Astrology ........35

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Volume 38, Number 24

Editor’s note

t’s the time of year where we look back on the past 12 months to decide what defined the year. The flooding San Luis Obispo County experienced in early 2023 is still weighing heavy on areas that felt the worst of the January and March storms. But LONG-TERM IMPACTS 2023 started with historic that was only the beginning. rainstorms that caused massive flooding and This past year also spawned mudslides, displaced culture war issues across the residents, and damaged roads. SLO County is still county; a fight against racism; recovering. battles over housing, clean energy, and parking; and sparring on local governing bodies that will continue into the new year. But wait, there’s more! Staff Writers Bulbul Rajagopal, Adrian Vincent Rosas, and Samantha Herrera write about some of the issues they felt had the most impact on the county in 2023 [8]. Also this week, read about the federal lawsuit against Meathead Movers [4], murals designed to breed more creativity and art in SLO [20], and what’s happening with La Cosecha in Paso Robles [26].

Camillia Lanham editor

cover photos from New Times file photos cover design by Alex Zuniga

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BORN WILLIAMS, AZ - DECEASED DECEMBER 9, 2023, SANTA CLARA, CA

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ucy Trejo, 91, passed away peacefully Dec 9, in Santa Clara, CA. She celebrated an early birthday a few days prior and was surrounded by family in her final hours.

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Lucy born in Williams, AZ, the second of 10 children born to Annie and Albert Depew Sr. Lucy raised 5 boys with the support of her family. Family was important and there were plenty of brothers, sisters and cousins around. She enjoyed gardening, camping, monthly bingo, and taking trips with her sisters. Lucy was preceded in death by her firstborn, Frank (Priscilla) Padilla. She is survived by four

sons, Raymond (Mary) Limpangug, Ronald Limpangug, Benjamin Limpangug and Ricardo (Constanza) Trejo, 15 grandchildren, and many great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at St. Patrick’s Church in Arroyo Grande January 5th at 10:30am, grave site services held immediately after Mass. A celebration of Lucy’s life will be held after graveside services at the American Legion Hall. Flowers can be sent to St. Patrick’s Church.

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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 

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December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024

Federal government sues Meathead Movers alleging age discrimination

eathead Movers—the moving company headquartered in San Luis Obispo that emphasizes athleticism—is in a federal agency’s crosshairs over alleged age discrimination. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) sued Meathead Movers in September for reportedly intentionally not hiring people aged 40 and older since at least 2017. Started by high schoolers Aaron Steed and his brother in 1997, the earliest version of Meathead Movers tapped into the duo’s physical prowess as athletes. The Steeds’ fledgling business expanded to recruit friends from the wrestling and football teams before they graduated. Now led by Aaron Steed as the CEO, Meathead Movers also operates offices in Oxnard, Santa Ana, Fresno, Bakersfield, and Temecula—often employing young and athletic college students as movers. Steed told New Times on Dec. 26 that the lawsuit was only a partial surprise, especially because the EEOC has been eyeing Meathead Movers since 2017. “In 2017, we got a letter from the EEOC, and they said that they want to investigate us for age discrimination. We sent that over to our attorney at the time,” Steed said. “He said, ‘Don’t worry at all. This is not a big deal. I’ve vetted your hiring and recruiting practices. You guys are completely aboveboard.’” But the EEOC disagreed with Steed’s former attorney. Roughly two years after Meathead Movers cooperated with the investigation, the federal government slapped them with a $15 million demand to settle the case. Since then, numerous mediations between the parties have failed and the EEOC hasn’t budged. With the conflict escalating to litigation, Steed faces the prospect of his company going bankrupt. “What’s so mind-boggling here is that there wasn’t even a complaint filed against us,” he said. “No person that has worked for us or has interviewed or has applied, raised their hand, and said, ‘I’ve been discriminated against.’ … The EEOC brought this on by themselves, and it’s a mystery why they did.” The lawsuit alleges that hiring officials repeatedly told older applicants who didn’t make the cut that Meathead Movers only hires “‘young’ people or ‘college-aged’ students and athletes.” Further, it claimed that the moving company excluded qualified applicants of a certain age from moving, packing, and customer service positions. The EEOC’s complaint detailed a section of interview notes jotted down by a hiring official.

“‘I feel like [she] is very qualified for the position,’” while having a great upbeat attitude for our clients read the official’s note according to the lawsuit. and treating them like gold.” “‘Her prior experience would suggest she will At 43, Steed is a champion wrestler and told New excel in her position here. I do think she is a little Times he still occasionally carries out moves for the intimidated by the age of the employees who work company because he can meet the job standards. here. And although I personally think it is immoral/ “If anyone over the age of 40 wants to unethical[,] I do not think she is a good cultural fit accommodate that job description, they’re more because of her age.’ (emphasis added).” than welcome to apply,” he said. “They have to also Steed told New Times he’s unaware of a hiring be able to pass a drug test. They have to be able to manager writing such notes. “I don’t know what they’re talking about,” he said. pass a criminal background screening.” “That completely goes PHOTO COURTESY OF MEATHEAD MOVERS against our company’s culture, our training, who we are, and what we’re all about. I’d love to see and review what they’re [the EEOC] talking about, and actually work with them on that, but we’ve never been able to actually discuss that with them.” The CEO added that Meathead Movers’ administration including the customer services department has DODGING CLAIMS Meathead Movers CEO Aaron Steed said that his company doesn’t employees in their discriminate in terms of gender, age, race, or sexuality, adding that working for his company as 40s, 50s, 60s, and even a mover and packer involves jogging when not carrying things around. one who’s 70 years old. They belong to The lawsuit hasn’t deterred Meathead Movers’ the 320-member workforce that’s spread across six public image. Steed said his business hasn’t locations. declined. Many in the local community praised the “The EEOC’s actions … [are] threatening 320 company on social media platforms like Nextdoor, families’ livelihoods as unemployment is going up, as inflation is going up.” Steed said. where they drew attention to Meathead Movers’ Working as a mover and packer for Meathead work with the National Coalition Against Domestic Movers involves strenuous labor. The website Violence and Steed’s GoFundMe page. The online claimed that applicants are screened through fundraiser had raked in $22,141 of its $500,000 multiple interviews and background checks target as of press time. before being hired. Then, the company pays each Steed hopes to use those funds to pay for attorney employee to observe newcomers while they carry costs while he fights the EEOC’s lawsuit. Meathead out moving services to uphold high work standards. Movers must respond to the federal government’s Meathead Movers also enrolls every mover and complaint by Feb. 1. packer into “Meathead University” to receive a “This is a witch hunt to try to put us out of “military-inspired training program with over 400 business,” Steed said. “We’ve had forensic CPAs procedures.” “We move heavy things [like] dressers, … beds, … affirm that that would put me out of business. couches up and down stairs,” Steed said. “Whenever This is a government attempt to eradicate a small business.” ∆ we’re not moving anything, the job standard at Meathead Movers is to then run to get more … all —Bulbul Rajagopal

Grant money brings recreational opportunities to Oceano

a contract with a local construction company called Burke Construction,” he said. “It’s really nice that we have a local company on board and that money can rebound through the community to help create jobs.” Varni added that the new outdoor plaza will overtake the privately owned Triangle Park. The district will also be able to shut down a block on either side of 17th Street and Beach Street to accommodate for larger events that could be held there. “We’ve been consultants on the project, and we’re currently working through the design phase,” he said. “The original design didn’t contain electricity, but I thought it would have made it difficult to arrange public events especially if we wanted to have dances, bands, or speakers so I was able to get everyone on board with having electrical outlets installed.” OCSD’s Parks and Recreation Committee just

Elementary school field trips and a new public plaza are in store for Oceano residents, come 2024. Oceano Community Services District (OCSD) board president Charles Varni told New Times that next spring, Caltrans will begin construction on a public plaza at 17th Street and Beach Street. “It’s a $1.8 million project, and we’ve lobbied hard to work out an agreement with the county on management of the plaza since it’ll be a public plaza for public events,” Varni said. “We’re all pretty much on the same page in that the more local control there is, the more efficient it will be.” The project is funded through a Clean California grant to enhance beautification along state roads and highways in California. “The lead agency is Caltrans who has entered into

4 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

received confirmation that the district will get a $16,000 grant from California State Parks to support field trips for local students, Varni said. “This grant is for Oceano Elementary School students exclusively, and there will be a portion of the grant that will support transportation and another portion for educational presentations,” he said. “We’re doing things like the ecosystems and roles of beavers in our area for students.” Varni said locations and logistics are being planned out, and the committee is simply waiting for the money to arrive. —Samantha Herrera

San Simeon CSD’s future is uncertain heading into 2024

The San Simeon Community Services District (CSD) may dissolve in 2024 following a meeting NEWS continued page 6

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News NEWS from page 4

with county and state officials on Dec. 7. Representatives of SLO County 2nd District Supervisor Bruce Gibson and SLO’s Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) spoke with the district board that day about the CSD’s potential dissolution and future transfer of water and wastewater management to the county. Former district board member Gwen Kellas said she was unhappy with what she saw as a lack of questions from the board to LAFCO Executive Officer Rob Fitzroy about the process. “[He] returned to the podium to offer assistance and answer questions, and the board completely and totally ignored him—just left him standing there for serval minutes never once acknowledging him, [and] finally he gave up and returned to his seat!” she told New Times. Earlier, Fitzroy had explained to the CSD that LAFCO would help determine whether the district qualifies for dissolution. If the CSD is no longer able to adequately provide the water, wastewater, and other general utility services it’s responsible for, SLO County could take over. New Times reached out to LAFCO and SLO County officials but didn’t receive a reply before press time. It’s been a rough year for the district. In April, two board members—Kellas and Daniel De la Rosa—resigned abruptly. The district has struggled to fill their seats. Holly Le took Kellas’ vacant seat in June, but De la Rosa’s spot is still vacant. The board missed the deadline to appoint someone to fill his seat, and now it has to wait until the next election cycle. However, in 2022 the district divided itself into five sub-districts. Of the approximately 200 qualified candidates who could run for the position if it was a district-wide position, only 27 residents are eligible in the sub-district. In June, longtime General Manager Charles Grace and his utility service company, Grace Environmental Services, were let go following a settlement with the SLO County’s District Attorney Office over conflict of interest charges. Many residents have felt the impact, despite the CSD’s newly appointed General Manager Patrick Faverty and recently contracted utility service providers. Resident Mark Ray said in a post on Nextdoor that he requested help with allegedly mischarged late fees on his water bill and, while he eventually received help, the same thing happened the next month. These mischarges left Ray worried, he said,

about how the board planned to continue operating the CSD heading into 2024. Dissolution might be the way to go, he said. “It’s probably for the best,” Ray wrote on Nextdoor. “If they won’t even remove a fraudulent, illegal, and unjustified late charge from my monthly water bill, I don’t think they should be in charge of anything.” —Adrian Vincent Rosas

Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) exemption. According to Beard, the Welcome Home Village project at the Higuera Street site doesn’t qualify for exemption because it’s inconsistent with SLO’s zoning designation. The land for the project falls within the service-commercial district of the Higuera Commerce Park Specific Plan. Under that plan, he said, projects on that land can’t be used for residential purposes including supportive or transitional housing. The rules South Higuera residents in the specific plan override SLO’s zoning want CEQA review of planned homeless shelter regulations that allow for such sheltering, according to Beard. Crunched by time, the proposed Welcome The attorney claimed that new traffic Home Village temporary housing project would be created through the project’s isn’t so welcome by neighboring residents. construction, the staff who would work San Luis Obispo County envisioned there, and the people and pets who would setting up the 80-bed shelter space on a eventually live there. gravel lot it owns behind the Department “The project also does not satisfy the of Social Services headquarters on Higuera Street in the city of SLO. The county received fourth condition for a Class 32 exemption, because the project results in significant $13.4 million from the state’s Encampment effects relating to traffic and noise,” he said. Resolution Fund for the project, and it must “The project site currently is unimproved. be used up before it expires in 2026. But a group of South Higuera business and But the site is used as a daily overflow property owners aren’t satisfied with how the parking lot for the county’s Social Services Department and has anywhere from 15county planned the project. to 20-plus vehicles that They aired their concerns would have to find parking via a letter written by Los elsewhere in the already Angeles attorney Paul Beard limited street parking Send any news II. He wrote to the Board available.” or story tips to of Supervisors on Sept. 13, The SLO City Council news@newtimesslo.com. criticizing an alleged lack of discussed Beard’s letter in consultation with affected closed session on Dec. 6 as community members and anticipated litigation. City Attorney Christine claiming that people only found out about Dietrick told New Times on Dec. 26 that the proposed project at a July 11 meeting the council took no reportable action in the about the funding. “There were no communications about the session and that the county will take over communication with Beard. project between county staff and business “The city remains very committed to and property owners in and around the supporting the county in implementing South Higuera Business Park prior to the July 11, 2023, Board of Supervisors meeting,” a project utilizing the substantial grant funding that has been awarded to provide Beard wrote in the letter. “Given that, nearly this much-needed project to advance a decade ago, efforts to place a homeless our collective objectives to address development on this same site failed, owners homelessness,” she said. were shocked to learn that the county would Assistant County Counsel Jon be targeting the same site for a homeless Ansolabehere hinted that a potential shelter.” makeover looms ahead for the Welcome Led by Community Action Partnership of Home Village project. He told New Times SLO County, a shelter project proposed for that the county completed evaluating the the South Higuera lot around 2013 shifted CEQA allegations from Beard. to 40 Prado Road. Beard contended that “While the county is still in conversations if the community members knew about with the adjacent business owners, the the new project earlier, they would have county is exploring the feasibility of moving alerted county officials about “numerous the project to another location,” he said. “We (unmitigable) environmental impacts the do not have a specific time frame for when project would cause.” the project will be considered at a Board [of The letter called for a thorough environmental review, something the Supervisors] meeting.” county tried to sidestep with a California —Bulbul Rajagopal

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Lopez Lake is almost at capacity, but hasn’t spilled yet

With fresh memories of last year’s winter storm damage, many are looking to Lopez Lake and the possibility of it spilling over the dam so early in winter to determine how this season might go. San Luis Obispo County Public Works Utilities Engineer David Spiegel told New Times that Lopez Lake is currently 95 percent full. Contrary to rumors, he added, the dam didn’t spill over on Dec. 23 and hasn’t spilled in almost a year. “We have a contractor repairing a riprap at the base of the spillway due to last season’s storms, so that could be why some believe it spilled,” Spiegel said. “It did spill back in January 2023, which was the first time it had spilled in over 20 years.” Spiegel said with the lake almost at capacity, the county’s worried about the potential for future downstream flooding on Arroyo Grande Creek, especially through the lower parts of Arroyo Grande and Oceano, which could have long-lasting and devastating effects. “We don’t have the facilities to pipe it anywhere or have storage locations like they do in the Central Valley, where it floods agricultural lands and lets it percolate the ground,” Spiegel has told New Times in the past. However, Spiegel said that flooding wasn’t a concern for the county in the wake of recent rains. “We would anticipate flooding if the reservoir spills, and we get large rain events,” he said. “If the season is more average in nature and not like last season, then the flooding could be minimal.” To help ease the minds of some Arroyo Grande and Oceano residents, Spiegel said that the amount of rain we recently had didn’t push the reservoir past its capacity, so community members don’t currently need to worry over potential loss or damage to their properties. However, he added a caveat. “There are no evacuation orders currently, but I would suspect upper management would issue evacuation orders if or when it spills,” he said. “There are some big storms forecasted.” Those looking to plan ahead can visit recoverslo.org, he said, for information on how to effectively plan for storms, receive updates on current emergency information, and resources on how to recover if a resident has faced storm related damage. The countyrun website also includes locations for local sandbag pickups. ∆ —Samantha Herrera

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FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF HEATHER BAKER

FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIC ALCOSIBA

FLOODED OUT Winter storms in January flooded Heather Baker’s Morro Bay home.

2023

Year in

Review v

EVERYONE’S INVOLVED A local student writes the phrase “no hate” on the back of a sign being used to block a banner reading “EMBRACE WHITE PRIDE” held up by masked individuals on May 13 in Templeton.

What a year!

Floods and historic rainfall ushered us into a chaotic 2023 BY NEW TIMES STAFF

anuary kicked us off with a rush of floodwater, and the rain didn’t stop until April. Certain areas of San Luis Obispo County are still dealing with the ramifications from all that water and concerned about what the rainy season ahead has in store. The tension that started the year continued throughout 2023, with fights over housing development, LGBTQ-plus issues, racism, clean energy storage, parking, and water. While we don’t have the space to cover everything that happened in 2023, here are some of the highlights!

Record-breaking storms hit SLO County

Torrential atmospheric rivers nailed SLO County in January and March, inundating neighborhoods in the cities of San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay, Paso Robles, Cambria, and Arroyo Grande, with floodwater and causing millions of dollars in damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. A water basin above the Vista Court neighborhood in Los Osos failed on Jan. 9, sending mud and debris into about 20 homes, rendering some unlivable. The Arroyo Grande Creek Levee also failed, flooding farm fields and homes in the low-lying areas of Oceano. Water and debris wiped out several roads in the rural areas of the county, including Chimney Rock Road near Lake Nacimiento, stranding residents for weeks. A rising San Miguel Creek swept away 5-year-old Kyle Doan on Jan. 9, as his mother was attempting to rescue him from their stuck vehicle, and at least two others died in SLO County as a result of the storms. President Joe Biden declared a major disaster in SLO County and several other California counties, making residents, businesses, and governments eligible for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance. However, recovery efforts are ongoing, not all residents received the assistance they needed to repair their homes, and county and city governments are still waiting for some repair projects to receive FEMA funding approval. In October, Kyle Doan’s parents sued the county, the city of Paso Robles, and Caltrans for negligence, dangerous condition of public property, failure to warn, and wrongful death among other allegations. The lawsuit mentioned that the boy is presumed dead. Oceano residents Pat and Vicki Cardoza also filed a lawsuit against the county for general negligence and property damage stemming from the Arroyo Grande Creek levee failure. They allege that their property flooded because the county mismanaged the Arroyo Grande Creek Flood Control Channel. —New Times staff

FILE PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM

SECOND WIND The SLO County Board of Supervisors’ liberal majority comprises 2nd, 3rd, and 4th District Supervisors Bruce Gibson, Dawn OrtizLegg, and Jimmy Paulding, respectively. The trio prioritized undoing the past board’s actions in 2023.

SLO County Board of Supervisors undoes the past

The momentous change in the makeup of the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors at the end of 2022 marked a sea change in policymaking. The liberal majority comprising 2nd, 3rd, and 4th District Supervisors Bruce Gibson, Dawn OrtizLegg, and Jimmy Paulding, respectively, overturned significant actions of the previous board. They authorized a court settlement between the SLO County Citizens for Good Government and the League of Women Voters which sued the county to stop the allegedly gerrymandered Patten map from being implemented. The decision repealed the Patten map—which served as the blueprint for the 2022 elections—and adopted a redistricting map similar SLO County’s previous iteration. The board also turned back the clock on individual campaign contributions, reducing the cap from $25,000 to $5,000 per contributor. Supervisors also eased regulations in the county’s cannabis ordinance and voted to rejoin the Integrated Waste Management Authority two years after the county pulled out to manage solid and hazardous waste programs on its own. —Bulbul Rajagopal

8 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

Racism, anti-LGBTQ sentiment

Overt racism reared its head in SLO County during 2023, most visibly in the form of antisemitic and racist fliers distributed in some residential areas from a group called the Blackshirts and masked men who held up white pride banners in random areas of the county, including along the Vineyard Drive overpass in Templeton. It sparked backlash from some county residents, who counterprotested and called for the SLO County Board of Supervisors to take action. In a 3-2 vote, with 1st District Supervisor John Peschong and 5th District Supervisor Debbie Arnold dissenting, the board passed a resolution condemning racism in June. A couple of weeks later, the board voted along similar lines to express support for the county’s LGBTQ-plus community following growing anti-trans sentiment and clashes at government meetings across the county over Pride month and the Pride flag—including at Arroyo Grande City Council, Board of Supervisors, and Paso Robles Joint Unified School District board meetings. Moms for Liberty’s local chapter clashed with LGBTQ-plus supporters over the right of an Atascadero teacher to display a Pride flag in her classroom. The local chapter’s co-founder, Templeton school board member Jennifer

Grinager, faced accusations that she used her board position to attempt to ban transgender students from using their preferred restrooms. Many, including LGBTQ-plus student advocate Doug Heumann, have called for increased education to provide a more welcoming environment for all people. —Adrian Vincent Rosas

The Dana Reserve development debate

The largest proposed housing development in SLO County in 25 years had a two-day public hearing in October, receiving SLO County Planning Commission approval to head for another hearing before the Board of Supervisors. The Dana Reserve aims to develop a 288-acre community in Nipomo with up to 1,318 residential units, 203,000 square feet of recreation, a shopping center, grocery store, a South County Cuesta College campus, and parks. However, many local community members have opposed the project from the beginning, lamenting the impact it will have on the South County community as well as the environmental damage cutting down more 3,000 oak trees to make room for development will have. Project supporters say the development will bring needed affordable housing to the county. Cuesta College President Jill Stearns has been a vocal supporter of the project, announcing during the Planning Commission meeting that Cuesta College supports the housing development. However, Cuesta’s staff felt differently, voting to oppose the project during their Oct. 27 academic senate meeting. The project will go in front of the Board of Supervisors in 2024. —Samantha Herrera

The battle over Gibson’s seat

Barely five days after the final 2022 election count showed incumbent 2nd District Supervisor Bruce Gibson ahead of his opponent Bruce Jones by 13 votes last December, San Miguel resident Darcia Stebbens requested a recount. The outcome of that recount showed that the election was tallied correctly, and Stebbens is now embroiled in a trial over money she refuses to pay the SLO County-Clerk Recorder’s Office for costs incurred during the recount. Gibson continues to face challenges to retaining his seat. The Committee to Support the Recall of Supervisor Bruce Gibson led by one of his former primary opponents, John Whitworth, served Gibson a notice of intention to remove him from office. The recall attempt failed once already because the committee missed a deadline, but the committee started over again, putting the recall attempt back in motion. —Bulbul

FILE PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM

CULTURE WAR ISSUES Political tension spilled over into student life as the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District board and the community took on matters of gender, curriculum, and enrollment.

Tension in the Paso Robles school district

The Paso Robles Joint Unified School District started the year with a special election in which ousted board member Kenney Enney beat out Angela Hollander to take his seat back on the school board. At the end of 2022, residents rallied to kick Enney off the board after he made anti-trans statements in a Facebook post. Current district Superintendent Curt Dubost is set to retire at the end of the 2023-24 school year. He said the board has struggled with political tension and indecision as it dealt with culture war issues such as student gender and Pride flag policies, right-wing talking points that impacted decisions such as whether to approved high school chemistry textbooks, and what to do in the face of declining enrollment. The board is still undecided about the fate of Georgia Brown Elementary School and its dual immersion program. After years of back-and-forth over whether to close the school, the district’s attempt to renovate the campus fell through when a “seismic anomaly” was discovered beneath the school, blocking construction from moving forward. A committee will investigate all the options before recommending a path forward to the board. —Adrian

Shelter and parking sites for the homeless

Almost two years after its rocky start, the Oklahoma Avenue safe parking site shuttered its doors to new homeless participants in 2023. Riddled with bungled communication; poor management; and safety, security, and sanitation issues, the SLO County Board of Supervisors confirmed in May that the site was on its way to permanent closure. The city of San Luis Obispo also closed its safe parking site at Railroad Square and has had trouble starting a replacement program due to neighborhood pushback. The Arroyo Grande City Council discussed a local safe parking ordinance but was unable to secure a commitment from preferred social services provider 5Cities Homeless Coalition, due to what the nonprofit said was its commitment to other programs on the South Coast. The 5Cities Homeless Coalition opened its Cabins for Change temporary housing program at the beginning of 2023 with the help of SLO County and Grover Beach. Starting with 20 shelters, the nonprofit has plans to build additional shelters on a new site in Grover Beach. The SLO County Board of Supervisors

FILE PHOTO BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

Central Coast Blue

FIRST HOUR’S FREE Community members claimed rising parking fees in downtown SLO were pushing out businesses and visitors, causing the SLO City Council to offer partial relief on the rate increase that took place in July.

concluded its last meeting of the year by redeclaring a shelter crisis. It relaxes rules around building and health standards so that more emergency accommodations can be set up on county-owned land to meet the rising level of homelessness. —Bulbul

Oceano Community Services District dysfunction

Starting off the year with two new board members, Charles Varni and Beverly JoyceSuneson, tensions immediately began to rise on the Oceano Community Services District (OCSD) board after General Manager Will Clemens said board members should take turns in leadership roles through a rotation system. Shortly after, directors Varni, JoyceSuneson, and Allene Villa requested $19,500 from the OCSD general fund reserve to create a Parks and Recreation Committee. Directors Shirley Gibson and Linda Austin disapproved due to the fact the OCSD still didn’t have the money to pay for fire services because the OCSD’s voters opted out of paying more taxes to fund fire services. While the district parted ways with Five Cities Fire Authority in June, it continued to provide emergency services to residents in the area through the end of the year, but what agency will provide emergency services in the future is uncertain. After a blow up over alleged embezzlement by a former OCSD employee, the district’s legal counsel quit and Clemens announced he was going to retire at the end of the year “because this new board direction lacks clarity.” During an October board meeting, community members blamed Varni for ruining the OCSD and creating a toxic environment that prompted both the general manager and legal counsel to resign. Varni felt physically threatened by one community member and called 911, however the sheriff never arrived to answer his call. The year ended with a change in board leadership—Varni as board president—and an interim general manager with a familiar face—former OCSD General Manager Paavo Ogren. —Samantha

community members—both residents and store owners—to speak out, claiming that rising parking fees were pushing out downtown businesses and visitors. By November, the SLO City Council partially relieved parking costs. Now, the first hour of parking in structures is free and so is parking in structures on Sundays through June 30, 2025. —Bulbul

Morro Bay battles over battery storage

Morro Bay will vote on a ballot measure in 2024 that could impact a future battery storage facility, thanks to the Citizens for Estero Bay Preservation. The group of city residents rallied against the development of a battery storage facility slated for land currently occupied by the city’s decommissioned power plant. Concerned over what group members say is the risk of lithium-ion battery fires that could threaten nearby residents and Morro Bay High School attendees, they gathered signatures for an initiative that aims to prevent City Council from making development decisions in the area without putting it before the city’s registered voters. If it passes in the next election, the initiative would effectively block any construction on the decommissioned power plant property without a public vote. —Adrian

The Central Coast Blue water recycling project began finalizing plans in 2023, after spending many years in the planning stages, and met pushback from some residents. The project, a cost-sharing agreement with Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, and Arroyo Grande, aims to protect the Santa Maria Valley Groundwater Basin from seawater intrusion and drought by injecting it with treated wastewater. Among the three cities, Pismo Beach is considered the lead agency. Pismo City Manager Jorge Garcia said that the cities want to ensure that their communities have a reliable water source to draw from in future years. However, some Grover Beach residents criticized the project due to city water and wastewater rates that will rise 20 percent to help fund it after the originally proposed cost of $55 million shot up to $93 million. Central Coast Blue Regional Water Authority project General Manager Geoff English said the project cost increased due to inflation. Thus far, about $32 million of the project will be covered by grants with the three cities splitting the remaining costs based on how much of the project’s output they will use. —Samantha

Trials and tribulations

In March, more than two decades after 19-year-old Kristen Smart went missing from Cal Poly, convicted prime suspect Paul Flores was sentenced to serve 25 years to life in a state prison. In April, a 22-yearold murder case came to a close when a jury unanimously found Morro Strand State Beach visitor Stephen Deflaun guilty of killing neighboring campground tourist Stephen Wells and his nephew Jerry Rios, Jr. in 2001. By the end of the year, a former SLO County supervisor who committed suicide in 2020 again returned to the public view in connection with corruption. The U.S. Department of Justice indicted Ryan Wright, formerly Ryan Petetit, for bribing former 3rd District Supervisor Adam Hill with money and gifts totaling more than $95,000 in exchange for the county official easing the way for his development projects. Wright faces 35 years behind federal bars if convicted. ∆ —Bulbul FILE PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM

SLO increases cost for parking

The city of SLO doubled its downtown parking rates in July to $4 an hour to raise enough revenue to cover a $47 million loan that’s expected to build a fourth parking garage in the area. The move prompted several

AT LONG LAST SLO County’s legal system saw the end of a 22-year-old murder case where a jury trial determined that Stephen Deflaun was guilty of murdering a man and his nephew at the Morro Strand State Beach campground in 2001.

www.newtimesslo.com • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • New Times • 9

News

STROKES&PLUGS

BY SAMANTHA HERRERA

Top notch care

PHOTO COURTESY OF CENTRAL COAST MEDICAL ASSOCIATION

he Central Coast Medical Association infrastructure here and I’ve been working on awarded 2023’s San Luis Obispo progressively increasing the complexity of that County Physician of the Year to a local work to try and serve the people of the county doctor who’s spent most of his career ensuring with that top level neurosurgical care. That residents get access to top-of-the-line care. takes a lot of resources from both the hospital “This award is for a physician who has and it takes manpower, but it’s been quite a fun worked to improve the quality of health challenge to get things where they are now.” care, contributed to the education of other He said he was able to do this in three physicians, and engaged in community service phases with the help of his colleague Dr. and other activities outside of medicine,” the Mitchel Berger. While Kissel worked with staff Central Coast Medical Association said. at Sierra Vista, Berger worked with UCSF’s Nominated for the award by his peers, Neurology Clinic to connect doctors at both Dr. Phillip Kissel is a physician and sites through automatic communication that neurosurgeon who first came to SLO in 1989 could help patients immediately. after attending Chicago Medical School, “The first phase was getting our acute a one-year surgical residency at UCLA patients transferred up to UCSF, which we Medical Center, and a five-year neurosurgical were [able] to do almost immediately. Phase residency in Davis, he told New Times. two was to put together a spine center which “My wife is a sixth generation Californian, allows people to be treated for back pain or and she likes horses and I like surfing and was neck pain,” Kissel said. “The third phase, which raised here, so San Luis Obispo was a good is now playing out, is having a recently trained logical choice for us,” Kissel said. “We wanted a neurosurgeon be brought to our community in life where we could practice neurosurgery and conjunction with the professors at UCSF.” also raise our children in a good environment.” Patients in need of neurosurgery in SLO can During his time in SLO, Kissel said his be transported to UCSF by ambulance, where aim has been to connect locals with top tier UCSF has beds already available for Sierra neurosurgery by partnering Sierra Vista Vista patients, Kissel said. Regional Medical Center with UC San “Not only can we transfer patients there Francisco’s General Neurology Clinic. seamlessly, which is really important, but we’ve been able to “At that time, 35 years ago, transfer people within there wasn’t the development hours from Sierra Vista or infrastructure that to UCSF,” he said. “We there is now, and it was a Send business have direct alignment little bit challenging in the and nonprofit information to with those doctors so our sense of neurosurgery,” he strokes@newtimesslo.com. surgeons here have routine said. “However, San Luis communication with the Obispo did have the baseline

Promote!

10 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

decide which ones get to receive funding, as well as bringing in doctors to give lectures on things like brain tumors,” he said. “We’re just a low-key organization, we don’t make a lot of noise or anything.” Kissel said he was blessed to receive the award and had no idea he was even nominated until he received the phone call from the president of the association. “I was surprised because usually they give these awards to primary care doctors or specialists, but never really neurosurgeons. We’re a busy group of doctors,” he said. “I really have to thank the community for this award, and I’m glad we have the connection to help people if they need it.”

Fast facts DOCTOR OF THE YEAR Neurosurgeon Dr. Phillip Kissel is SLO County’s 2023 Physician of the Year. With his help, Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center partners with UC San Francisco General Neurology Clinic to provide patients with top tier care.

neurosurgeons there. We could be considered an extension of their neurosurgical program.” With more than three decades as a Central Coast Medical Association member, Kissel was also president of the California Association of Neurological Surgeons in 2016 has worked on the San Luis Obispo Medical Education & Research Foundation’s board of directors since 2021. On the foundation’s board, Kissel said he can help young medical professionals through networking and educational events. “We basically evaluate different events and

• On Jan. 11, 2024, the Central Coast Country Dance Society will be hosting a one day dance class where Synopaths will play live music. The event will be from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo, and no partner or prior dance experience is needed. Lessons are free, but they’re asking for a $10 donation at the door. Visit slocal.com/event/ contra-dance/11595 for more information. • The Morro Bay Winter Bird Festival is ready for bird lovers from all over California to view more than 200 species of birds over Martin Luther King weekend. Spectators can view, photograph, and educate themselves on the different species by listening to experts who will be present and provide information. The festival runs from Jan. 11 to 15, 2024, at 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay. For more information, visit morrobaybirdfestival.org. ∆ Reach Staff Writer Samantha Herrera at sherrera@newtimesslo.com.

Opinion

LETTERS

➤ Rhetoric & Reason [12] ➤ Shredder [13]

Andrew Christie was nature’s superhero

ver the years, my approval of Andrew Christie, the erudite director of our local Sierra Club chapter, has developed into flat-out admiration. His thoroughly-researched articles and stirring public speeches have heightened my awareness almost without my realizing I was learning anything—to the point where I’m now better informed on environmental matters than most of the people I know. Andrew is a galvanizing teacher. But unlike most teachers (and many politicians) who try to appear objective, he always takes a definite stand, presenting all sides of an issue, stating his position, discussing why it’s important, and proposing solutions. I’ve no doubt Andrew has made some powerful enemies over the years, but like any true hero, he’s impervious to their sticks and

stones. He has never been known to back away from his convictions, despite the power and money that have been used to oppose him. Andrew has always been, and will no doubt continue to be a selfless advocate for Mother Earth. He has led the way toward a greater understanding of the importance of saving and protecting the natural beauties of our state, and we owe him a great debt of gratitude for opening our eyes to the perils of indifference. He has done an outstanding job of preserving our wilderness areas from corporate interests and political greed, and it won’t be easy to fill the shoes he leaves behind (“Responding to unraveling,” Dec. 14). Laurin Hayes Morro Bay

We must do our best to make the world better

16 miles to the north and 30 miles to the south. The Oceano Airport occupies 60 acres of restorable wetlands, crucial as a natural floodplain for the Arroyo Grande Creek. These wetlands are essential for Oceano’s well-being, as demonstrated by the threat posed to residents during the levee breach last winter. The airport limits public access and recreational opportunities. With the current off-roading playground on our beach and dunes, Oceano lacks a safe and accessible beachfront. The 60 acres now occupied by the airport could be restored into a wetlands park with trails and a small day-use area where residents and visitors can park and then walk to the beach. Oceano needs a safe pedestrian and bike path to the beach, a vehicle-free beach, and a park. Will the county ever listen? Oceano Beach Community Association

I found Andrew Christie’s latest offering to be very moving (“Responding to unraveling,” Dec. 14). He and I have been at odds at times on these very pages, but I never once doubted his dedication to making the world a better place. I simply felt that he was headed in the wrong direction on some things. I am pleased that even in retirement he plans to continue trying to make things better. After all, a life without a noble quest is worth little. As far as the “polycrisis,” decades ago the poet W. B. Yeats elegantly described it in his poem “The Second Coming”: “Turning and turning in the widening gyre The falcon cannot hear the falconer; Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold; Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world, The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere The ceremony of innocence is drowned; The best lack all conviction, while the worst Are full of passionate intensity.” Meanwhile, the rough orange beast is slouching toward Washington to be born again. We must all do our best to stop it. Mark Henry San Luis Obispo

Oceano doesn’t need an airport

The Oceano County Airport administration sought approval from the California Coastal Commission for a permit to “improve” the airport, including an exclusive campground, entertainment stage, lounge, bathrooms, showers, and private parking. However, on Dec. 15, 2023, the Coastal Commission urged the airport administration to withdraw its application. Before permitting anything, the commission wants a comprehensive plan that addresses environmental justice issues in accordance with the Coastal Act and environmental justice policy. We would like an independent land use study to identify possible alternative future uses for that land. We already have airports

ILLUSTRATION FROM ADOBE STOCK

Charles Varni, who spearheaded the countyI first met Mr. Varni in 2015 when I was a wide response, and who led hundreds of teacher and served on the board of the Lucia volunteers (with a letter-writing campaign Mar Unified Teachers Association. Charles of 20,000) to victory! A came to a school board David and Goliath fight of meeting to raise awareness this magnitude required about the impending collaboration, problem disaster that a proposal by Send us your solving, dedication, and Phillips 66 might bring to views and opinion to perseverance. our county and state. Our letters@newtimesslo.com. I attended strategy local schools, and many meetings, large and small, more throughout California, led by Charles. The culture were in the “blast zone” of the proposed was always respectful and encouraging of all project, which would have brought mile-long ideas and perspectives. Not once did I ever tanker trains through our area. feel intimidated or unsupported. I have great I quickly became involved as a volunteer respect for the leadership skills of Charles and helped to get letters from our local Varni and for the hard work and dedication teachers union, our state teachers union, and that he brings to his work. our federal teachers union opposing Phillips Kathleen Minck South County 66 on this. In so doing, I worked closely with

Speak up!

Varni is a changemaker for Oceano

I have known Charles Varni for about 10 years, first as a neighbor and later as a fellow supporter of Oceano’s quality of life. I’ve attended numerous meetings with him and have always found him to be respectful and interested in other people’s opinions, inviting exploration of divergent ideas. The Oceano Community Services District seems to be an organization that does not welcome changemakers. Amanda Sherlock Oceano

Varni epitomizes ‘leadership, compromise, and civility’

I recently read a letter by Kellie Myrick regarding the work of Charles Varni (“Not a team player,” Dec. 14), and I’d like to respond. I wholeheartedly agree with the opening sentence, “Serving on a government board is a team sport. It demands leadership, compromise, and civility.” The time I spent as a volunteer working with Charles Varni showed me that he is the epitome of just that: leadership, compromise, and civility. www.newtimesslo.com • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • New Times • 11

Opinion

RHETORIC&REASON

BY JOHN ASHBAUGH

Are we listening?

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393 Marsh St, San Luis Obispo • (805)-543-7383 • carsofslo.com 12 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

n a sunny Saturday afternoon in early December, I ventured into SLO PAL FEST, A Symposium on Palestine at Trinity Hall in the tiny community of Edna. It was my first visit inside that historic building, the property of the Portuguese Holy Spirit Society, founded in 1911. Hundreds were already gathered, most appearing to be Muslims: Many of the men were bearded; many women proudly wore their hijab. All of them wore a broad smile of welcome as they busied themselves preparing for the event. And there, in a building constructed by Portuguese Catholics, thronged by so many Muslims, the first person to shake my hand was Gordon Mullin—my favorite conservative sparring partner and a recent convert to Judaism. I was struck by the stunning diversity of the crowd as we squeezed into the hall (capacity 300). Most attendees were young adults; many were non-white. I chatted with friends old and new, including physicians and neighbors Rushdi and Nisha Cader (Rushdi contributed to my November column). SLO City Council members were present. Many of the organizers circulated a petition to SLO County elected officials calling for a ceasefire by Israel and Hamas, an exchange of hostages/prisoners, and negotiations to create a lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike. I signed a digital version of the petition weeks earlier. Israeli forces have carried out a massive aerial and ground offensive in Gaza in the weeks since the horrific Oct. 7 attack by Hamas that killed about 1,100 Israelis and 71 others (including about a dozen Americans). Hamas continues to launch missiles into Israel, with an impact that is mostly psychological. Each day, new atrocities have piled on, with only a brief “pause” during the Thanksgiving weekend to exchange a handful of hostages from Hamas’ tunnels for 150 Palestinian “detainees” from Israeli prisons. To date, more than 20,000 Palestinians in Gaza have died, the vast majority of them civilians, mostly women and children. The Israeli retaliation has displaced more than 85 percent of the survivors from their homes. They now suffer in conditions described as catastrophic. Israel has destroyed 40 percent of the buildings in Gaza, the most densely populated city on the planet. Most of Gaza’s health facilities have been knocked out. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that “there are actually no functional hospitals left in the north.” One-third of Gaza’s 2-plus million people are facing starvation. The stories told in the SLO PAL symposium reflected this pain and brought it home. Yet this perspective is rarely given voice anywhere in the U.S. today—even less frequently here, with our minuscule community of Palestinians. Those who spoke that afternoon in Trinity Hall offered moving accounts of the suffering in Gaza and occupied Palestine. Farah Al-Nakib from the Cal Poly History Department introduced five panelists, including three with advanced degrees: Two were professors, one a Cal Poly undergraduate. They were joined by an American emergency physician with

experience as a WHO medic in Gaza and a young woman who remained anonymous out of concern for retaliation against her family in Palestine. All spoke passionately, occasionally with tears, about the decades of neglect suffered by those who descend from the ancient and indigenous culture of Palestine. Ashraf Tubeileh is on the Cal Poly faculty; his family emigrated from occupied Palestine after their home in Gaza was destroyed. He recently lost a cousin, the mother of an infant child who had sought refuge in the southern region of Gaza only to be hit by an air strike. He told of the destruction of all four of the universities in Gaza, the mining of its medical college. But as he concluded, he stated firmly, “We will rebuild.” Iyad Jamaly, a 22-year-old Cal Poly student, spoke of the diaspora of “stateless” Palestinians, reflected in his own family’s search for a refuge from Gaza. He ultimately found his way to the U.S. via Kuwait but continues to cultivate his roots in that troubled region. Another well-informed participant, also on the Cal Poly faculty, recited the tragically long list of post-WWII wars between Israel and Palestinians beginning with the founding of Israel in 1948, in which 700,000 Palestinians were expelled from their homes. Heidi Hutchison, the emergency physician, spoke of the pride that Palestinians held in their health facilities in Gaza, now on the brink of collapse. In 2006, Israel withdrew its occupation forces but imposed a blockade that limited essential supplies and severely restricted the health care system. The young woman who remained anonymous offered one of the most moving accounts of how her once-affluent Palestinian family has been systematically deprived of resources and forced to rely on ration cards and handouts. She is determined, however, to finish her education and earn an advanced degree. The first part of the event concluded with a lavish Mediterranean feast. Outside the hall, I noticed several men and women kneeling and praying toward Mecca. I joined them in my own way, in a silent prayer conveyed toward the same God of Abraham. I asked for the same peace, that peace which surpasses all understanding, eternally. ∆ John Ashbaugh is neither Jewish nor Palestinian, but he continues to ask the Rodney King question: “Why can’t we all just get along?” Respond with a letter to the editor by emailing it to letters@newtimesslo.com.

This Week’s Online Poll VOTE AT WWW.NEWTIMESSLO.COM

What do you think is the role of advisory councils in SLO County’s unincorporated areas? 57% They can only make recommendations on land use issues. 27% I wish we had more informational sessions about them. 16% I didn’t know we had advisory councils. 0%

They have power to change laws. 37 Votes

Opinion

THE SHREDDER

The fuss that will be

rom the kerfuffle over the potential Dana Reserve tree slaughter to the ongoing wahmageddon of the Oceano Community Services District to the danger zone of the Five Cities fire funding to the avarice of the SLO Town parking fee-gouging to the NIMBYism of the SLO safe parking snafu to the barf-in-my-moutha-little white pride racism to the get-overit-you-lost SLO County vote recounts to the dependably effed-up Paso Robles Joint Unified School Board, it’s been a banner year for nincompoop-filled clown cars on an endless funeral procession memorializing the final nail in the coffin of common sense. Whew! Never have so many done so much to accomplish so little to solve problems and make life better for residents. And the fun doesn’t stop! And we have the federal government joining the fray. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is suing local moving company Meathead Movers over age discrimination. Since the company was founded by two high school aged brothers in 1997 with the novel idea to hire strapping young student athletes to move furniture, it’s grown to also cover Oxnard, Santa Ana, Fresno, Bakersfield, and Temecula. True, it advertises as being staffed by student athletes, but does that mean the company discriminated by age? Not according to CEO and co-founder Aaron Steed, who told New Times, “What’s so mind boggling here is that there wasn’t

even a complaint filed against us. No person that has worked for us or has interviewed or has applied, raised their hand and said, ‘I’ve been discriminated against.’ The EEOC brought this on by themselves, and it’s a mystery why they did.” The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 forbids employment discrimination against anyone 40 years old or older, but you can exclude a prospective employee if they’re unable to do the job, and Meathead Movers employees must have the muscles to move heavy objects and hustle all day. “We move heavy things … up and down stairs,” Steed added. “Whenever we’re not moving anything, the job standard at Meathead Movers is to then run to get more … all while having a great upbeat attitude for our clients and treating them like gold.” If Meathead Movers is “discriminating” because many people older than 40 can’t physically do the job, what’s the U.S. Military doing when it requires enlisted soldiers to be between 17 and 35 years old, medically and physically fit, and in good moral standing? This EEOC suit sounds like a shakedown of a successful company whose physically demanding work lends itself toward younger and fitter employees. Steed also noted that their customer services department has employees in their 40s to 60s and one who’s 70. Those working as packers and movers must be able to complete strenuous labor, so what’s the EEOC’s

as more and more people realize how endgame, force old people to move pianos? instrumental they’ve been in creating better The feds said they’d settle for a working conditions. The 40-hour work cool $15 million. week, sick leave, minimum wage, overtime, “The EEOC’s actions… workers’ comp, sexual harassment laws, and much more are thanks to unions. But sinister [are] threatening 320 families’ livelihoods,” Steed said, citing his organizations are still trying to undermine company’s 320 employees and the unions and workers’ rights. bankruptcy potential. “If anyone Cal Poly faculty members recently received over the age of 40 wants to accommodate that a postcard from Freedom Foundation, with a job description, they’re more than welcome to photo of a Christmas-adorned smiling couple apply.” holding an armful of presents under the Meathead Movers has until Feb. 1 to headline, “Give yourself a Christmas bonus!” respond to the demand. Beneath, it says, “End your monthly union Speaking of undermining the little guy, dues. Put your own present under the tree!” the struggle continues for Cal Poly faculty On the back side is a card to be filled out members and the faculty of 22 other that’s pre-addressed to the CFA general California State University campuses to manager stating, “Effective immediately, negotiate a fair contract. Citing low pay, I resign any membership I may have in all growing workloads, and systemic inequities, levels of the California Faculty Association.” the California Faculty Association (CFA) It goes on to cite the 2018 U.S. Supreme is demanding a 12 percent pay increase, Court’s decision in Janus v. AFSCME, which manageable workloads, more mental health curtailed unions’ ability to collect fees from counselors for students, expanded paid those they negotiate for but who do not parental leave, and more, and they’ve voted to voluntarily join the union. authorize a systemwide strike. What Freedom Foundation is trying to do Actions already took place in December is to trick faculty members into withholding at Cal Poly Pomona, San Francisco State, dues to their union, effectively defunding it CSU Los Angeles, and and hampering its ability to Sacramento State. In total, negotiate a fair contact. The 95 percent of voting CFA conservative organization members said yes to a strike, says they’re “fighting for Send us your and action could happen at workers’ rights.” Ha-ha-ha! views and opinion to Cal Poly in January. Merry Christmas, indeed. ∆ letters@newtimesslo.com. Public sentiment toward unions has waxed and The Shredder advocates waned over the years, but for more cheer. Wish it happy New Year at it seems like unions are making a comeback shredder@newtimesslo.com.

Speak up!

www.newtimesslo.com • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • New Times • 13

Hot Dates

10-DAY CALENDAR: DECEMBER 28, 2023 - JANUARY 7, 2024

STRING THEORY

The Seven Sisters Folklore Society presents the Foghorn Stringband, live in concert, at the Octagon Barn Center in San Luis Obispo on Friday, Jan. 5, from 7 to 9 p.m. This roots group has performed in various cities over the past 15 years and produced eight albums. Tickets to the concert are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Visit the concert’s Eventbrite page for more info. The Octagon Barn Center is located at 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo. —Caleb Wiseblood PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SEVEN SISTERS FOLKLORE SOCIETY

ARTS NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. 805-394-5560. coastalwineandpaint. com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria. COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos. DEBRA PIAZZA: ACRYLIC, MIXED MEDIA ARTIST Piazza began her painting career during the pandemic, and uses handmade collage papers, and/or anything she can find to enhance the texture of a flat canvas. Exhibiting at Morro Made, Rustic Diamond, Morro Bay Art Association, Cayucos Makers, and Mea Winery. ongoing 650-888-2168. artbypiazza.com. Morro Made, 490 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay. DISCOVER GIFTS OF WHIMSY AND WONDER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Explore drawings, paintings, sculpture and functional fused glass, along with work by 20 West Coast artists. They wrap and ship gifts, too. Stop by for seasonal treats and surprises. Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free admission. 559799-9632. facebook.com/costagallery. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos. FEATHERS IN FLIGHT: A GROUP PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW This exhibit

showcases the Morro Bay Bird Festival month with photographs of birds, and bird habitats in countrysides and oceansides (all the places where our wildlife friends live and thrive; hunt and sing). Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Jan. 29 Free. 805-7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. FINE ART PAINTINGS AND GIFTS BY CAROLE MCDONALD California native Carole McDonald creates textured felted bags and pursues her passion for color as a self-taught acrylic and oil painter since moving to the Central Coast. View her vibrant, precise and textural works. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.5 p.m. through Dec. 29 Free. 805-7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. 805772-9095. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay. GIFTY UNDER FIFTY ALL YEAR ROUND Costa Gallery is gearing up for the holiday season. Check out a seasonal collection of art. Thursdays-Sundays. through Dec. 31 Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos, 559-799-9632. 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.

NEW YEAR COMEDY KICK OFF SPECTACULAR There will be improv comedy, dancing, music, drinks, games, and so much more. Jan. 6, 6 p.m. my805tix.com/. The Benedict, 1401 Quintana Road, Morro Bay. OIL PAINTINGS BY RON DIEB “My oil paintings explore possibilities through thickly applied, vibrant color utilized freely with both knives and brushes. Hopefully, my art will attract and engage others to appreciate the glimpses of beauty that surrounds us all,” the artist stated. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Jan. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. ongoing 805-772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com. SMALL WORKS AND BOOKS BY GEORGE ASDEL George Asdel is an accomplished painter, poet, and craftsman. Over his long career as an artist, he has won awards for his acrylic paintings, pen and ink drawings, illustrated books, greeting cards, and poetry. Reception on Jan. 13, from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 30-Jan. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. NORTH SLO COUNTY

ANNUAL UNDER $200 SHOW A highly anticipated art exhibit featuring local talent. Original art is sold for under $200. Come celebrate local artists and find a gift for a loved one, or yourself. Through Jan. 15, 2024 Free. 805-464-0533. the1artery.com.

New Times and the Sun now share their community listings for a complete Central Coast calendar running from SLO County through northern Santa Barbara County. Submit events online by logging in with your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account at newtimesslo.com. You may also email calendar@newtimesslo. com. Deadline is one week before the issue date on Thursdays. Submissions are subject to editing and approval. Contact Calendar Editor Caleb Wiseblood directly at cwiseblood@newtimesslo.com. 14 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

The ARTery, 5890 Traffic Way, Atascadero. 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. ongoing DepriseBrescia.com. Deprise Brescia Art Gallery, 829 10th St., Paso Robles, 310-621-7543. FIRST SATURDAY: WINE, ART, AND MUSIC Studios on the Park celebrates First Saturdays, a fun tradition of art, wine, and live music-filled evenings at the start of each month. Enjoy meeting artists and seeing rotating exhibitions while enjoying live music and wine from one of the venue’s winery partners. First Saturday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Free; $10 for wine. 805-2389800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles. FRANK EBER: PRESENCE AND ABSENCE A special pop-up show in the Studio Spotlight space. Featuring the talented Frank Eber. The show will highlight a variety of Eber’s work that explores nature’s transitions in painting. Jan. 6-March 25 805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles. HANDCRAFTED FOR THE HOLIDAYS 2023 Premier craftspeople and artists are featured in this unique exhibition and retail sale. You’ll find an abundance of unique, handmade gifts and goods at every price point. A portion of every sale supports Studios on the Park’s mission of bringing art to the community. Through Dec. 30 Free. 805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles. MONOCHROME MEMOIR: A BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION See the world in dark and light through

INDEX Arts.......................................14 Culture & Lifestyle ...........16 Food & Drink ......................18 Music ...................................18

the multifaceted lens of Celeste Hope. Reflect on a creative journey that spans multicultural exploration, live music experiences, female strength, unexpected encounters, and other subjects of inspiration. Jan. 6-Feb. 25 805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles. NEW YEAR’S EVE COMEDY NIGHT Presented by Misfit Live Comedy. Steve Bruner headlines the show with Tony Le, Bob Fernandez, and a special guest to be announced. Dec. 31, 7-10 p.m. $30 in advance; $35 at the door. 805-221-7121. pasolounge.com. Paso Lounge, 1144 Black Oak Drive, Paso Robles. 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. WATERCOLOR FOR BEGINNERS A watercolor series for beginners. Guests will learn basic watercolor techniques and concepts. There will be a different whimsical project each week, allowing you to experiment with the medium. All supplies are included. Sundays, 1:30-3 p.m. through Jan. 28 $50 for one class; $185 for all four. 805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles. 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. ALISA SIKELIANOS-CARTER The Alisa Sikelianos-Carter exhibition at SLOMA will promote an emerging female artist of color whose works are inspired by the stories of her Black ancestors and traditionally Black hairstyles, centered on ancestral power and mythology. Through March 10, 2024, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma. org/exhibition/alisa-sikelianos-carter/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., 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. ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolor-based course, but one that branches out into other media. Fourth Thursday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. 805-7474200. artcentralslo.com. 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/babyhandprints. 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. FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition ARTS continued page 16

ALWAYS AMAZING.

NEVER ROUTINE.

KENNY METCALF AS ELTON

GRUPO LABERINTO JANUARY 19 | FRIDAY | 8PM

JANUARY 26 | FRIDAY | 8PM

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK

HOLLYWOOD FIGHT NIGHTS

FEBRUARY 9 | FRIDAY | 8PM

FEBRUARY 23 | FRIDAY | 7PM

Management reserves the right to change or cancel promotions and events at any time without notice. Must be 21 or older. Gambling problem? Call 1.800.GAMBLER.

Welcome to Freedom

ON SALE NOW

ONE FREE

JANUARY 26 - MARCH 16

SMALL POPCORN! Expires 3/16/24

Great Snacks · Cold Beer · Hwy 1 Oceano · 805-489-2499 · americanmelodrama.com www.newtimesslo.com • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • New Times • 15

Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living We are a diverse, welcoming community that accepts and supports everyone’s spiritual journey. We teach the Science of Mind and Spirit, an affirmative philosophy free of dogma, and encourage personal development through questioning, contemplation, and direct personal spiritual experience. We offer Sunday services, meditation, classes, events, concerts, spiritual coaching, and more. If you are ready to live your best life, come check us out!

Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue, Spiritual Leader

Sunday services are held at 10 AM at the Pavilion on the Lake

9315 Pismo Avenue · Atascadero · CA · 93422 805-391-4465 · info@awakeningways.org www.awakeningways.org

Hot Dates ARTS from page 14

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. 805-543-8562. sloma. org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. FREE DOCENT TOURS Gain a deeper understanding of the artwork on view with SLOMA’s new docent tours. Every Saturday, join trained guides for interactive and engaging tours of SLOMA’s current exhibitions. Saturdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/visit/tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. 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. 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, 1011:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. 702-335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo. LEAH ROSENBERG Rosenberg works across artistic media to spark new experiences of color. Using painting, installation, printmaking, sculpture, performance, and video, she invites viewers to consider how color can be perceived both multi-sensorially and multidimensionally. Through April 1, 2024 Free. 805543-8562. sloma.org. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad 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. 805-441-8257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com. LESLIE SUTCLIFFE This installation consists of 96 panels, any number of which can be assembled and reassembled in a multitude of ways. Initially, the individual panels were inspired by the rich visual imagery in Italo Calvino’s Six Memos for the Next Millennium. Through Jan. 29, 2024 Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ mementos-of-six-millennia/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. 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/eventcalendar. Saints Barrel Wine Bar, 1021 Higuera 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.

locally owned and operated

PRICES ARE BORN HERE... RAISED ELSEWHERE

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M–F: 8am–5:30pm S: 8am–3pm SUN: Closed

• Brakes • Shocks • Alignment (805) 541-8473 252 HIGUERA STREET 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 countywide, 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. RICE PAPER COLLAGE WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM Receive step-by-step instruction for creating a beautiful Purple Iristhemed rice paper collage with hand painted rice papers, acrylic paints, and gel plates. Beginners are welcome and no experience is necessary. Jan. 6, 1-4:30 p.m. $40. 805-

(Lower Higuera Next to Hayward Lumber)

16 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

DECEMBER 28, 2023 - JANUARY 7, 2024 478-2158. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 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. 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. 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, 1:303:30 p.m. $35. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/ workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ART EXHIBIT BY HILDA FREYRE Features oil paintings by Hilda Freyre, and watercolors by Shirley Horaceck. Reception on Sunday, Dec. 17, 3 to 5 p.m. Pieces available for sale (great for holiday shopping). Through Dec. 31 clarkcenter. org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, 805-489-9444. HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA See Scrooge find his Christmas spirit and enjoy other tales during the Melodrama’s annual holiday production. Through Dec. 31 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

CENTRAL COAST SLIM DOWN Take control of food without suffering. Learn a step-by-step process to take control of overeating, cravings, and feel peace with food. Build the habits, mindset, and your unique path with results that stick. Hosted byTami Cruz (Certified Health/Life Coach) and Dana Charvet (Coach/ Fitness Trainer). ongoing Call for pricing info. 805-235-7978. gratefulbodyhealthcoaching. com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. CENTRAL COAST 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/index.html. CITIZENS FOR ESTERO BAY PRESERVATION: MONTHLY FACE-TO-FACE MEET-UPS Representatives from “Citizens for Estero Bay Preservation” will be on hand to discuss current news and events surrounding efforts to stop the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Morro Bay and the industrialization of the Embarcadero and waterfront. “No Batteries by the Bay” yard signs available. Email preserveesterobay@gmail for more info. First Tuesday of every month, 10-11 a.m. Free. Buttercup Bakery and Cafe, 430 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.

performance fitness training, Thai kickboxing, and more. Beginners to advanced students welcome. Day and evening classes offered. Mondays-Saturdays, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Call for more info. 805-701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. NEARLY NOON YEAR’S EVE PARTY Want to ring in the New Year, but your bedtime is way before midnight? Come to this Nearly Noon Year’s Eve Party instead. Celebrate the start of 2024 with music, activities, and a countdown at noon. For kids and families. Dec. 30, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. 805-528-1862. Los Osos Library, 2075 Palisades Ave., Los Osos. NEO NOIR NEW YEAR’S EVE Gala Pride and Diversity Center presents this upcoming NYE party at the Benedict in Morro Bay. Visit site for more details and tickets. Dec. 31, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. The Benedict, 1401 Quintana Road, Morro Bay. SOCRATES: DISCUSSION GROUP Group members present interesting and thought provoking topics of all sorts. Topics are selected in advance and moderated by volunteers. Vaccinations are necessary. Enter through wooden gate to garden area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. 805-528-7111. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro 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. TAI CHI AND QI GONG: ZEN IN MOTION Small group classes with 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the Year. Call for time and days. Learn the Shaolin Water Style and 5 Animals Qi Gong. Beginners welcomed. Mondays, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call for price details. 805-701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. TAI CHI CHUN CERTIFICATION With the 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the year. Ongoing courses. ongoing Call for price. 805-701-7397. 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. Tuesdays-Thursdays Call for details. 805-701-7397. charvetmartialarts. com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. WEEKLY QIGONG PRACTICE AT FITNESSWORKS MORRO BAY Calm your mind and nourish your joints with a weekly Qigong practice led by Mike Raynor of Tai Chi Rejuvenation. The practice is rooted in Qigong fundamentals, and standing/moving meditations. Forms include: Eight Brocades, Five Elements, Shibashi 18, and Tai chi 24. Saturdays, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Members free; non-members $8-$10. 805-772-7466. fitnessworksmb.com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay. 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. 805701-7397. 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. 805-441-2164. North County Connection, 8600 Atascadero Ave., Atascadero.

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.

NEW YEAR’S EVE BONFIRE AND CONCERT Back by popular demand, the Paso Robles New Year’s Eve Bonfire and Concert is a local favorite event taking place in the downtown city park, with a captivating ball drop scheduled for 9 p.m. Details online. Dec. 31, 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Free. 805-237-3888. prcity.com/ NYE. Paso Robles Downtown City Park, 1200 Park Street, Paso Robles.

ENJOY AXE THROWING Enjoy the art of axe throwing in a safe and fun environment. Kids ages 10 and older are welcome with an adult. No personal axes please. Fridays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. $20. 805-5284880. baysidemartialarts.com. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

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 AND MAINTENANCE A self-help support group focusing on weight loss and maintenance.

MORRO BAY MIXED MARTIAL ARTS Disciplines include advanced athletic

Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. 805-242-2421. tops.org. Santa Margarita Senior Center, 2210 H St., Santa Margarita. YANG STYLE TAI CHI The course’s instructor won many Tai Chi and other internal martial arts tournaments. Both experienced martial artists and new learners are welcome to the class. Mondays, Wednesdays, 5-6 p.m. $62. 805-470-3360. Colony Park Community Center, 5599 Traffic Way, Atascadero. SAN LUIS OBISPO

BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. 559-905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. BIRDS AND BOTANY MONTHLY WALK AT SLO BOTANICAL GARDEN The Garden is excited to present a monthly bird walk series on the fourth Thursday of every month which explores the intersection of birds and botany. Fourth Thursday of every month, 8-11 a.m. $10 for Garden Members; $40 for general public. 805541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., 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. Free. 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 Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free with $5 Garden Entry. 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 pro-recovery 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. 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 The SLO Botanical Garden announces its second season of Nature Nights. Visit site for more info on the event as well as tickets. Fridays, Saturdays, 5-8 p.m. through Dec. 31 $27 Adults; $17 Youth (ages 6-17); free for ages 5 and under. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo. 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 CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 18

Misfits Comedy Presents: New Year’s Eve Comedy Night

New Year’s Eve 2024: Boogie Wonderland

“Camera” - A Charity Film Screening for MBHS Arts Dept.

SLO Botanical Garden, El Chorro Park

Paso Lounge, Paso Robles

SLO Brew Rock, San Luis Obispo

Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

FRI & SAT, DECEMBER 29 & 30

Shamanic Morning Rituals for Vitality

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31

Tepusquet Tornadoes New Years Weekend Kick Off Party

Ray Jaurique Band with The Big Daddy Horn Section

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31

Coastal Wine & Paint Party

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Be Hoppy Tours: Friday Hoppy Hour DEC. 29 Sip of SLO DEC. 30, JAN 13, 27

Tours begin & end at The Hub, SLO

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30 Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, Cambria

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30 Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

New Year’s Eve Party! Ring in 2024

FCB’s Rocking NYE Party with Kerosene Kings, Spange, Three4All

GALA Pride & Diversity Presents: Neo Noir NYE

CC Comedy Theater: New Year Comedy Kick Off Spectacular!

SMCT Presents: Charlotte’s Web

CC Comedy Theater: Improv Made Easy Workshop

Songwriters at Play: Tribute to Smokey Robinson & Aretha Franklin

Symphony of the Vines: Timeless Classics

Trapt: The Fall Tour with Silvertongues & Soundhouse

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29 The Stockyard at Blast 825, Orcutt

The Comedy Couple (Tom & Steph Clark) and friend!

CaliPaso New Year’s Eve 5 Course Meal & Wine Paired Dinner SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 CaliPaso Winery, Paso Robles

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 Club Car Bar, Templeton Mercantile

CC Comedy Theater: Improv 101: Intro to Improv Comedy Class 6 MONDAYS STARTING JANUARY 8 The Benedict, Morro Bay

CC Comedy Theater: Beginners Stand-Up Class

6 TUESDAYS STARTING JANUARY 9 CC Comedy Theater Studio, SLO

CC Comedy Theater: Improv 101: Intro to Improv Comedy Class 6 WEDNESDAYS STARTING JAN. 10 CC Comedy Theater Studio, SLO

FRI, SAT, SUN, JANUARY 12–28 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

SLO Blues Society: Chicago Blues Revue

Saturday Night Dead: Hexenghül, Rival Cults, Mechanical Ghost

CC Comedy Theater: Clown Meets Improv Workshop

Monthly Painting Class with Drew Davis: Mission SLO

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13 Humdinger Brewing SLO

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14 The Benedict, Morro Bay

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14 Drew Davis Fine Art, SLO

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 The Benedict, Morro Bay

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13 The Benedict, Morro Bay

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14 Mission San Miguel Arcángel

It’s free! Contact us for more info: Central Coast Aquarium

TICKETS · VOLUNTEER · DONATE FRI: 12–3PM · SAT & SUN: 10AM–4PM San Juan Street, Avila Beach

Donate to Wine Country Theatre

THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2023 Paso Robles

Santa Maria Civic Theatre 2023-2024 Membership

PURCHASE BY DECEMBER 31, 2023 SMCT, Santa Maria

Point San Luis Lighthouse Tours IN-PERSON TOURS: WEDS & SAT VIRTUAL TOURS: ON DEMAND Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

805-546-8208 info@My805Tix.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6 The Benedict, Morro Bay

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13 High Roller Tiki Lounge, Solvang

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

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www.newtimesslo.com • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • New Times • 17

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week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 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. 805-709-2227. Crows End Retreat Center, 6340 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo. SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime. toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID. SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo. SLO SKIERS MONTHLY MEETING Future monthly meetings of SLO Skiers will be on the first Tuesdays of each month. A sports and social club for adults. Social hour with food and drinks from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. First Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Meeting free; annual membership $65. sloskiers.org. The Siren at El Chorro, 2990 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo, 805-541-1149. SLOCO’S GIFTING TREE For every gift certificate purchased at SLOCO through end of December, the venue will donate to WeForest and plant a tree in your name, a gift that keeps on giving. Help the host reach its goal of planting 300 trees by the end of the year. Mondays-Sundays. through Dec. 31 Donations support WeForest. 805-4392515. slocohealth.com. SLOCO Health + Wellness, 1957 Santa Barbara Ave., 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. SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@ gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 805-540-6576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

Calum Graham in Concert Thursday, January 25 • 7pm Banner Coffee Company, Arroyo Grande Presented by:

DANNY GRASSESCHI TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

MY805TIX.COM Does your organization sell tickets? Get more exposure and sell more tickets with a local media partner. Call 805-546-8208 for more info.

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. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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. NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY AT THE CLIFFS HOTEL AND SPA Ring in 2024 at this exclusive party. Experience live performances by DJ and electric violinist Razzvio. Enjoy NYE favors and top it off with a midnight champagne toast for everyone. Dec. 31, 9:30 p.m.-midnight $45 per ticket. 805-

18 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

DECEMBER 28, 2023 - JANUARY 7, 2024 556-3316. cliffshotelandspa.com. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach. POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach. 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.

FOOD & DRINK

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.

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. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

NEW YEAR’S DAY BRUNCH Begin the year with a feast for the senses, featuring breathtaking views, delicious food, and the

MUSIC NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ALL VINYL EXPERIENCE Enjoy a night of dance-inducing vinyl music mixed with precision and flare. Dec. 29, 8 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, 805-225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/. 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. LISTENING AS RITUAL Group listening sessions with musician/musicologist Ben Gerstein. Explore remarkable recordings of world music, nature field recording,

NORTH SLO COUNTY

CALIPASO’S NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER Executive Chef Casey Walcott is preparing a preselected five course meal with wine pairing to bring in the new year. Celebrate with CaliPaso for an East Coast Toast to 2024. Dec. 31, 5:30 p.m. my805tix.com. CaliPaso Winery, 4230 Buena Vista Dr., Paso Robles, 805-226-9296. CLUB CAR BAR TRIVIA WITH DR. RICKY Teams of 1 to 6 people welcome. Visit site for more info. Wednesdays, 7-10 p.m. my805tix. com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main Street, Templeton, 805-400-4542. SIP, SPARKLE, AND SWAY: NEW YEAR’S EVE SALSA DANCE PARTY Serial Wines presents an unforgettable night of salsa dance lessons at the Serial Tasting Lounge in downtown Paso Robles. Enjoy an exciting dance experience led by Sabrina, a dance instructor from Cal Poly. Dec. 31, 8 p.m.-midnight $35-$75. 805-9092818. serialwines.com. Serial Wines, 1226 Park St., Paso Robles. TACO TUESDAYS La Parilla Taqueria will be in the courtyard serving up their delicious tacos and tostadas. Menu typically includes barbacoa, chicken, and pastor tacos, as well as shrimp ceviche tostadas. Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. 805-460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero. TASTE OF TIN CITY WALKING TOUR Enjoy the first ever walking tour of Tin City – an industrial area just outside of downtown Paso Robles – that is home to a community of innovative and passionate producers of high-quality wines, spirits, beer, and more. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $125. 805-400-3141. toasttours.com/ tour/tin-city-walking-tour/. Toast Tours, 1722 Stillwater Ct, Paso Robles. SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo. HEAD GAMES TRIVIA NIGHT Live multi-media trivia every Wednesday. Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to six players. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. headgamestrivia.com. Antigua Brewing, 1009 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-242-1167. HOPPY HOUR (SELECT FRIDAYS) Visit some of the best craft beverage locations in San Luis Obispo. Tours start at The Hub on selected Fridays. Check site for full schedule and tickets. Fridays, 3-7 p.m. through Jan. 26 behoppytours.com/. The Hub, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. PIÑATAS ON THE PATIO What is more festive than a piñata? Join for some brunch drinks and a couple of good hits to a piñata (or two). Good times and goofy prices promised. Turns will be determined on a first come, first served basis. First Sunday of every month Free. Rambling Spirits, 3845 S. Higuera St. (inside SLO Public Market), San Luis Obispo, drinkramblingspirits.com.

SNOWBOUND

PHOTO COURTESY OF SLO SKIERS

The SLO Skiers’ first general meeting of 2024 will be held at the Dairy Creek Golf Course in San Luis Obispo on Tuesday, Jan. 2, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. On the first Tuesday of each month, this local sports and social club meets up for food and drinks. Call (805) 528-3194 or visit sloskiers.org for membership details and more info. The Dairy Creek Golf Course is located at 2990 Dairy Creek Road, San Luis Obispo. —C.W. soothing sounds of the Pacific waves. Savor the first moments of 2024 with a lavish brunch spread that reflects the coastal bounty of Pismo Beach at SeaVenture. Jan. 1, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Prices vary. 805-773-4994. seaventure. com/weekend-brunch. SeaVenture Restaurant, 100 Oceanview Ave., Pismo Beach. NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER AND PARTY AT THE CLIFFS HOTEL AND SPA Celebrate the end of 2023 with a delectable four-course dinner. For reservations after 7 p.m., all dinner guests also receive an all access pass to the New Years Eve Party. Prices vary; see website for details. Dec. 31-6:30 p.m. & 7-9 p.m. 805-556-3316. cliffshotelandspa.com. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach. NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER AT SEAVENTURE As the year comes to a close, celebrate in grandeur with an unforgettable evening filled with delectable cuisine, live music, and spectacular views at SeaVenture Restaurant. Indulge in a specially crafted three-course dinner menu. Must call to reserve. Two seating times (at 5 and 7:30 p.m.). Dec. 31, 5-9 p.m. $70 per person. 805-773-3463. seaventure.com. SeaVenture Restaurant, 100 Oceanview Ave., Pismo Beach. NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER AT THE GARDENS OF AVILA Welcome in 2024 with a culinary journey featuring a carefully curated menu at The Gardens of Avila. Enjoy an exquisite dining experience that will delight your senses and create lasting memories as you bid farewell to the year. Dec. 31, 4-9 p.m. $80 per person. 805595-7302. sycamoresprings.com. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., 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. 805-2956171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

western classical and contemporary, and jazz, sharing and discussing inspiration and perspectives on the expressive power of peoples, cultures, animals and habitats through sonic experience. Every other Monday, 7-8:15 p.m. $10-$15 donation. 805-305-1229. leftcoastartstudio.com/. Left Coast Art Studio, 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos. OPEN MIC NIGHT Come join us each Wednesday for Open Mic Night in the downstairs dining area. Grab some friends and show off your talents. Food and drink service will be available. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. Free. 805-995-3883. schoonerscayucos.com. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos. RIFF TIDE NYE PRE-GAME PARTY Ring in 2024 with a big bang. Dec. 30, 2-5 p.m. Free show. 805-210-9698. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, thesirenmorrobay.com/. NORTH SLO COUNTY

BERMUDA WITH SNUFFTAPE, BEARS, AND NO WARNING SHOTS Bermuda (Salt Lake City, Utah) with Snufftape (Salt Lake City, Utah), Bears (SLO), No Warning Shots (Santa Maria). Show starts at 8 p.m. Jan. 7, 7:30-11 p.m. $15. 805-296-2676. darknectarcoffee. com. Dark Nectar Coffee Lounge, 5915 Entrada, Atascadero. 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. KARAOKE NIGHT Food and drink available MUSIC continued page 19

Hot Dates MUSIC from page 18

for purchase. Last Saturday of every month, 8 p.m. Free admission. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main Street, Templeton, 805-400-4542. NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH THE CROON DOGS TRIO Celebrate 2024 with the lively music of the Croon Dogs Trio, featuring father-son guitar wizards Billy and Charlie Foppiano and bassist Geert de Lange. Dance the night away, and enjoy cocktails and a champagne toast. Dec. 31, 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Free. 805-2382660. Paso Robles Inn, 1103 Spring Street, Paso Robles. NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY: RING IN 2024 Ticket includes a welcome cocktail at the door( non-alcoholic choices for DDs). Enjoy karaoke, a DJ set, champagne, and more. Dec. 31, 8 p.m. my805tix.com/. Templeton Mercantile Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton. PALESTINE BENEFIT SHOW: PARASITE CASTE, VISCERATE, SORES FOR DAYS All proceeds will be donated to the Palestine Red Crescent Society. Live music from Parasite Caste (sludge metal), Viscerate (thrash metal), and Sores for Days (grind). Doors open at 8 p.m. Show starts at 9 p.m. Suggested donations accepted. Jan. 6, 8-11 p.m. $10. 805-2962676. darknectarcoffee.com. Dark Nectar Coffee Lounge, 5915 Entrada, Atascadero. RIFF TIDE NYE PARTY AT MOZZIS SALOON Riff Tide is hosting a fantastic New Year’s Eve celebration with friends, family, locals, and tourists alike in the magical town of Cambria. With special guests April Rain and Miss Chelsea. Dec. 31, 8:30-11:45 p.m. Free show. 805-210-9698. Mozzis Saloon, 2262 Main Street, Cambria.

e h M t t a e l c o i d g rama a M

SINGING HANDS CHILDREN’S CHOIR A unique performing arts group that performs across the state for deaf festivals, service organizations, churches, fairs, and other outlets. New members always welcome. Registration open weekly. Mondays, 5-6:30 p.m. $45 tuition per month. singinghandschildrenschoir.com/. Singing Hands Children’s Choir and Performing Arts, 1413 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles. SAN LUIS OBISPO

ALL AGES OPEN MIC NIGHT Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, San Luis Obispo. BOOGIE WONDERLAND With Orgone, The Charities, and Soul Dust Productions. For ages 21 and older. Dec. 31, 8 p.m. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843, slobrew.com. FUNCTUS WITH ZONGO ALL-STARS For ages 18 and over. Formed in the mid-90s out of the popular San Luis Obispo band, Mozaic, Functus was inspired by the genre-bending sounds of the ‘90s San Francisco jazz-funk scene and more. Dec. 29, 7 p.m. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843, slobrew.com. LIVE MUSIC AT LIQUID GRAVITY Check social media and calendar for weekly updates. Fridays, 6-9 p.m. and Saturdays, 2-5 p.m. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, San Luis Obispo. 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. OPERASLO: NEW YEAR’S EVE ON BROADWAY Ring in the New Year with a citywide arts celebration gala featuring some of the best Broadway, opera, and dance selections with a special tribute to Stephen Sondheim. Dec. 31, 7-9 p.m. $52. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. PETTY THEFT: SAN FRANCISCO TRIBUTE TO TOM PETTY AND THE HEARTBREAKERS Doors open at 8 p.m. All ages welcome. Jan. 6, 9 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600, fremontslo.com. SEVEN SISTERS FOLKLORE SOCIETY PRESENTS THE FOGHORN STRINGBAND The Foghorn Stringband is the present day gold standard for genuine old-time American string band music, with eight albums, thousands of shows, and more than 15 years of touring under their belts, and a new generation of roots musicians following their lead. Jan. 5, 7-9 p.m. $20 advance; $25 at the door. 805-235-2874. eventbrite.com. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

EASTON EVERETT LIVE Everett plays guitar-woven music with an indie attitude. Jan. 7, 12-3 p.m. Free. eastoneverett. com/. Cape Cod Eatery and Taphouse, 1127 Shell Beach Road, Pismo Beach, 805-295-6919. KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY Enjoy some good food and karaoke. Fridays, 5-8 p.m. 805-723-5550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo. KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly event with barbecue offerings and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, Send event information to 108 Cuyama Ln., events@newtimesslo.com Nipomo, 805or submit online. 925-3500. ∆

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Arts ARTIFACTS Studios on the Park celebrates three new exhibits with First Saturday reception

The First Saturday program is a monthly tradition at Studios on the Park, and the first event of 2024 will be held on Saturday, Jan. 6, from 6 to 9 p.m. On the first Saturday of each month, the Paso Robles gallery welcomes the public to enjoy the venue’s latest art showcases with wine and live music. January’s reception will highlight the grand openings of three new solo exhibitions, highlighting artists Celeste Hope, Carter Campbell, and Frank Eber. A prolific photographer, Hope is the featured artist of Monochrome Memoir: A Black and White Photography Exhibition. The showcase is described in press materials as “a creative journey that spans multicultural exploration, live music experiences, female strength, unexpected encounters, and other subjects of personal inspiration.” Hope’s exhibit, which is slated to remain on display at Studios on the Park through Sunday, Feb. 25, features photographs she took over the span of 15 years. The collection “captures her evolution as both an artist and an individual,” according to press materials. Campbell is a 23-year-old artist whose works of various media are featured in a Cuesta Spotlight exhibition, available for gallery visitors to view in the venue’s front window area through Thursday, Feb. 29. “In a realm dominated by polished perfection and sleek precision, I embrace the allure of unconventional imperfections,” Campbell said in press materials. “My journey began with a brush in hand but found its way into the transformative realms of sculpture and installation art.” Located in the gallery’s Studio Spotlight space, Presence and Absence is a showcase of paintings by Central Californiabased artist Eber, who works in both watercolor and oils to create atmospheric landscapes with poetic impressions. “I think it is important to leave some room for imagination,” Eber said in press materials. “When you look at the finished piece, it is remarkable what you think you see that is not really there. For me, that is one of the most beautiful things about painting.” Eber’s exhibit is scheduled to remain on display through Friday, March 29. Admission to the upcoming First Saturday reception, to celebrate all three new showcases at Studios on the Park, is free. Wine is $10. The event will feature live music from Elyse Black. For more details on the reception and future programming hosted by Studios on the Park, call the gallery at (805) 238-9800 or visit studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park is located at 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles. ∆ —Caleb Wiseblood

PUBLIC ART

➤ Film [22] BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

Mighty murals

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MISSY REITNER

The Bunker SLO showcases hawks, transformation, and creativity in new murals

he Bunker SLO visitors may notice something different about the outer walls of the gallery in early 2024. “It’s honestly really hard to describe the intricacies of all the art because a lot is going on,” said Missy Reitner, the owner and main showrunner of the San Luis Obispo gallery. “Not that it’s overwhelming but just the art is so moving and impactful to the viewer.” The Bunker’s outside served as a canvas for a quartet of muralists, including Reitner, who worked over a few days to decorate the once blank faces of the building. “My big thing as an artist has always been doing mural work,” Reitner said. “But when it came time for us to put some up around the Bunker, I didn’t want to be the only one doing them.” She found her creative collaborators by chance and networking. “One of the artists, Nicole Poppell—who did the mural on the parking lot side wall—I had met after she worked on a mural out in Pismo Beach,” Reitner said. “She and I hit it off super well and she ended up introducing me to the other two artists who worked on the other mural, Corinne Pulsinelle and Erica Friend.” She offered them a mural artist’s dream: a tall, wide blank space on which to express themselves. “I told them, ‘Like, hey, if I gave you a whole wall and said go and do whatever you want would you be down?’ and of course, they said yes, because who wouldn’t want that as an artist,” she said with a laugh. The group worked for several days on two separate murals that were completed just before a massive rainstorm hit SLO. “We worked on both murals pretty much at the same time since we had two pretty massive walls to work with, and it was just a big old mural party,” she said. “I think all of that space and camaraderie allowed us to make something that reflected what we wanted to make without worrying about meeting specific requirements.” Reitner describes the mural primarily worked on

Check out the murals at The Bunker SLO by swinging by 810 Orcutt Road in San Luis Obispo. Tor more information on future art events, visit thebunkerslo.com.

“Public art like this is so important to the community it’s in,” she said. “Especially when that art is being put together by diverse women in a town like this.” Feminine artistic contributions are CREATIVE CAMARADERIE From left to right, Bunker owner Missy Reitner stands crucial to establishing alongside fellow muralists Nicole Poppell, Corinne Pulsinelle, and Erica Friend. SLO as a place for creative expression— by Poppell as abstract introspections on personal something Reitner acknowledges the city has done growth. very well. “It’s about transformations,” Reitner said. “First, “To SLO’s credit, they have done an amazing job for her as an artist and how the shapes and colors the past few years at getting creative contributions represent her journey as an artist, but also how from women and people of color for their public those might be a similar sign of transformation for art pieces,” Reitner said. “Going forward, especially the viewer.” here at the Bunker, we plan to continue that.” The other mural, by Pulsinelle and Friend, came With ongoing dedication to make SLO a place from a more concrete concept. of diverse open expression for artists, she’s hopeful “It’s on our longer outer wall and features this the area can become one of California’s premier art hawk flying across it, we call it ‘Tony Hawk’ as a result,” Reitner said with a smile. “There’s more to it destinations. “We want to work with a blend than just the hawk; it’s got things of artists, both from our area like the phases of the moon, flora, and outside of our area as we and fauna as well.” did with these murals,” Reitner Both murals are vibrant and Send gallery, stage, said. “We want people to know stick out from far away, she said, and cultrual festivities to this is a creative space and and establish the Bunker as the arts@newtimesslo.com. want to come here to be able to creative haven for expression that express themselves—that’s the she’s always wanted it to be. ultimate goal of everything we do, “They are just both full of these providing a space for that expression.” ∆ beautiful colors and shapes,” she said. “It honestly makes me a little weepy thinking about the pure Staff Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas is thinking about expression on display.” how impressive painting the murals so quickly was. Reitner said it’s significant that the murals were Reach him at arosas@newtimesslo.com created by a group of female artists.

TONY HAWK Corinne Pulsinelle and Erica Friend combined their styles to craft this hawk-based mural, nicknamed “Tony Hawk.”

20 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

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FLOWER POWER Nicole Poppell channeled transformation, flora, and fauna in her mural on the parking lot side of the Bunker SLO.

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either of us are 2023 typically a “my favorite (fill in the blank) is” kinds of people. We might have current favorites of the moment, but how can we pick an overall favorite band, writer, visual artist, or even a favorite color for that matter? We can obviously tell you if we like something or not, and we do it every week, writing about new release films or shows on streaming services, but as a change of pace, instead of reviewing new media this week, we decided to look back on this year’s films and try to make a list of our favorites, despite our inherent resistance to such endeavors. That said, it’s also important to note that we didn’t see every film that came out in 2023. We still want to see Ferrari and Poor Things, which are out locally this week, and we missed some critically acclaimed films such as Past Lives, Anatomy of a Fall, The Zone of Interest, and Pricilla. What we have this week—in no particular order—is a list of impossibly brief reviews of some of our favorite films we saw in 2023.

Year in

Review v

Oppenheimer (Rated R; 180-min.) Christopher Nolan brilliantly directs this biopic about American scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy) and his role in developing the atomic bomb. Both proud of and disturbed by his achievements, we meet a man who changed the course of human history. Incredible storytelling and superb acting by an ensemble cast including Robert Downey Jr. Barbie (Rated PG-13; 114 min.) Greta Gerwig directs this seemingly lightweight all-surface story but injects it with surprising depth, as the classic but controversial doll, Barbie (Margot Robbie), experiences an existential crisis leading to explorations of patriarchy, misogyny, feminism, and sexism. Likewise, Ken (Ryan Gosling) begins to understand emasculation, jealousy, and inequality.

DESTROYER OF WORLDS Cillian Murphy stars as American scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer, who helped create the atomic bomb, in Oppenheimer.

YOU CAN BE ANYTHING? Margot Robbie stars as Barbie, a doll who’s transported from Barbie Land to the real world, forcing her to question everything she knows, in Barbie.

between a platoon sergeant (Jake Gyllenhaal) and his Afghan interpreter (Dar Salim), who risks his life to carry his injured comrade across enemy terrain, forming an obligation for reciprocation when the sergeant learns his interpreter is at risk. A most intense piece of cinema.

Kingsley Adetola at 6, Aven Courtney at 13, and Josiah Cross at 17) living in foster care, and kidnaps him, hoping to give him the love and stability he deserves. A gut-punch ending.

Asteroid City (Rated PG-13; 105 min) Wes Anderson delivers another highly stylized world within a world following a writer (Edward Norton) and his fictional play about a grieving father (Jason Schwartzman) on vacation with his family in a small rural town for a junior stargazing event that happens to coincide with an alien visitation. Deeply charming with a terrific cast and first-rate use of miniatures. The Holdovers (Rated R; 133 min.) Director Alexander Payne reteams with Paul Giamatti (Sideways) for this story about outsiders forming connections. Giamatti is a cranky and unliked history teacher at a remote prep school tasked with looking after a troubled student with nowhere to go over the holidays. Despite their dislike of each other, they discover they have more in common than they thought. John Wick: Chapter 4 (Rated R; 169 min.) Directed by former stuntman Chad Stahelski, this guilty pleasure is an absolute bloodbath, a highly choreographed ballet of death and destruction, as assassin John Wick (Keanu Reeves) must find a way to defeat The High Table before its assassins kill him. Incredible stunts, a relentless storyline, and gorgeous cinematography for the win.

Killers of the Flower Moon (Rated R; 206 min.) Auteur Martin Scorsese offers an epic, sweeping examination of a dark passage in American history and an exploration of a complicated love between an Osage woman (Lily Gladstone) and her white husband (Leonardo DiCaprio), who under the guidance of his uncle (Robert De Niro) is swept up in a scheme to defraud the oil-rich Osage people. Maestro (Rated R; 129 min.) Bradley Cooper directs himself as conductor-composer Leonard Bernstein in a biopic that chronicles his lifelong relationship with actress Felicia Montealegre Cohn Bernstein (Carey Mulligan). Their relationship is complicated by his homosexuality and utter immersion in his art, but their marriage was more than a sham, which we discover when Felicia contracts cancer. Bottoms (Rated R; 91 min.) Emma Seligman helms this ribald comedy about two unpopular queer high school students—PJ (Rachel Sennott) and Josie (Ayo Edebiri)—who concoct a misguided plan to start an all-girl self-defense club to have sex before they graduate. Hilarious, poignant, and at times cringe-inducing, this queer comedy turns out to have a lot of heart and a lot to say about inverting gender politics. Honorable mentions include Beau is Afraid (Rated R; 179 min.), May December (Rated R; 117 min.), Dream Scenario (Rated R; 102 min.), and The Killer (Rated R; 118 min.). ∆

The Covenant (Rated R; 123 min.) Macho director Guy Ritchie examines male bonding in wartime in the relationship

A Thousand and One (Rated R; 117 min.) A.V. Rockwell helms this gritty drama about a mother’s love. Teyana Taylor stars as Inez de la Paz, who after being released from prison spots her son Terry (played by Aaron

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PHOTO COURTESY OF POP. 87 PRODUCTIONS AND FOCUS FEATURES

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PLAY WITHIN A PLAY Scarlett Johansson stars as a movie star who’s dealing with personal misfortune and rehearsing for a new role, in Asteroid City.

ALONE TOGETHER After his newly remarried mother informs him their holiday is cancelled, boarding school student Angus Tully (Dominic Sessa, left) is forced to spend Christmas with his history teacher, Mr. Hunham (Paul Giamatti), in The Holdovers.

Contact Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

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BROTHERS IN ARMS After recruiting Ahmed (Dar Salim, below) as his interpreter, U.S. Army Sergeant John Kinley (Jake Gyllenhaal) and he form an unbreakable bond, in Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant.

22 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

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Music

STRICTLY STARKEY

BY GLEN STARKEY

Happy New Year … I guess Pick your party, party people!

PHOTO COURTESY OF SLO BREW ROCK

hen you think about it, celebrating New Year’s Eve is stupid. For starters, our calendar is almost entirely arbitrary. Yes, a year is considered 365 days (except leap years), and a day is 24 hours (except because of Earth’s elliptical orbit, it can vary by minutes). Our Gregorian calendar happens to mark Jan. 1 as the start of a new year, but other calendars in use don’t (Jewish, Islamic, Indian, Chinese, and Julian, anyone?). And perhaps most importantly, nature, physics, and the cosmos do not know it’s a new year and do not care, yet here we go again. I personally avoid New Year’s Eve celebrations (amateur hour!), but if you’re not like me and want to go party like it’s 1999 (or 2024), below are five local live music extravaganzas to choose from on Sunday, Dec. 31. If you’re in SLO Town, the biggie is SLO Brew Rock’s New Year’s Eve 2024 Boogie Wonderland with funk, soul, and R&B acts Orgone and The Charities, plus music by DJ collective Soul Dust Productions on the main stage (8 p.m.; 21-and-older; $100 presale at ticketweb.com). “Celebrating New Year’s Eve has become a tradition at The Rock, and we consider it our favorite event of the year!” the club announced. “We will transform our entire two acres into a boogie wonderland for your pleasure and enjoyment.” In the Barrel Room Club, hear DJ Jose Madre, in the Speakeasy Lounge, check out Americana band Moonshiner Collective. Your ticket includes three drinks, light bites all night, and a “massive balloon drop.” If you’re in SLO and extra sophisticated and classy, I recommend OperaSLO and their New Year’s Eve Gala: From 42nd Street to the Met in Cal Poly’s Performing Arts Center (7 p.m.; $52 at pacslo.org), with special guests Ballet Theatre San Luis Obispo, Central Coast Gilbert and Sullivan, and the Cuesta

Quartet at Libretto in Paso Robles on Friday, Dec. 29 (6:30 and 9:15 p.m. shows; $35 at librettopaso.com). A “Jazz Group of the Year”nominee, the quartet is touring in support of Songs From The Swinghouse, which landed on the Billboard Jazz Top 10. For fans of jazz-funk, the big news is Functus playing a rare reunion concert at SLO Brew Rock on Friday, Dec. 29 (doors 7 p.m.; 18-and-older; $10 presale at ticketweb.com or $15 at the door). They were the hot ticket in SLO in the mid-’90s, inspired by the HAPPY NEW YEAR’S EVE Soul-funk act Orgone headlines SLO Brew Rock’s massive New Year’s Eve celebration Bay Area jazz-funk scene, on Dec. 31. bands such as Medeski, Martin and Wood, and College Concord Chorus, along with the who according to her bio took “a chance at 1970s sounds of electric Miles Davis, completely owning her talents” by entering Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra James Brown, and Parliament/Funkadelic. “a drag show at the University of Wisconsin and Chorus conducted by Brian Asher Featuring guitarist Jacob Odell, bassist Oshkosh. There she fell in love with the art of Alhadeff. You can sit in comfort and revel in Dylan Johnson, and New a visual and sonic feast of opera and Broadway illusion and performance.” Orleans-based drummer Finally, if you want a cozy, show tunes. and percussionist Steve family friendly celebration, If you’re on the north coast and want a Campbell, Functus will Send music and check out the Paso Robles taste of NOLA, head to The Siren in Morro cook up an intense jazz/ club information to New Year’s Eve Concert and Bay for a New Year’s Eve party with New funk/rock hybrid with gstarkey@newtimesslo.com. Bonfire at the Downtown City Orleans party band Bon Bon Vivant (8 Indian, African, and Park (7 to 11 p.m.; all ages; p.m.; 21-and-older; $54.75 at tixr.com). This Cuban music thrown in. free). They’ll have a ball drop amazing band has a terrific frontwoman Opening the show is local at 9 p.m. to coincide with the East Coast, a in Abigail Cosio, who’s got a thrilling voice favorite the Zongo All-Stars, playing their lineup of food trucks, local beverages, face and serious guitar chops. Add in a phat horn brand of Cali-Cubano party music. painting and glitter tattoos, and music by the section and wowza! Meanwhile over at the Clark Center, check Lucky Devils Band, an octet playing tight If you’re on the north coast and out Motown Explosion & Soul Revue covers of songs by Bruno Mars, Beyoncé, LGTBQIA2S (look it up) or just want to on Friday, Dec. 29 (7:30 p.m.; $49 to $69). Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, and other party like it, Gala Pride and Diversity Center Presented by Gary Vecchiarelli Productions, popular artists. presents Neo Noir New Year’s Eve at the the event features six singers and a 14-piece Benedict in Morro Bay (1401 Quintana band performing music made famous by More music (not on NYE) … Tina Turner, Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross, Road; 21-and-older; general admission is $50 It’s the holidays and the college kids are and VIP $75 at my805tix.com). You’ll enjoy James Brown, and other Motown artists. ∆ mostly gone, so the live music scene is a music by Miss Ashley Brown, best known bit sedated, but there are still a few shows as playing Mary Poppins on Broadway and Contact Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey at this week including jazz act The Lao Tizer gstarkey@newtimesslo.com. on a national tour, and Miss Vivian Storm,

PHOTO COURTESY OF BON BON VIVANT

PHOTO COURTESY OF VIVIAN STORM

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LUCKY DEVILS BAND

A NIGHT IN NEW ORLEANS Bon Bon Vivant plays New Year’s Eve at The Siren on Dec. 31, bringing their NOLA sounds to Morro Bay.

STORM IS COMING Vivian Storm is one of two performers at Gala Pride and Diversity Center’s Neo Noir New Year’s Eve on Dec. 31, at the Benedict in Morro Bay.

GATHER AROUND THE FIRE The Lucky Devils Band plays Paso Robles’ New Year’s Eve Concert and Bonfire at the Downtown City Park on Dec. 31.

Sound out!

24 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

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Michelin ambition

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LA COSECHA BAR + RESTAURANT

Farm-to-table fare meets Spanish and Peruvian flair at revamped Paso restaurant La Cosecha

ell-known restaurateurs Carole Focused on fresh and chef Santos MacDonal, La Cosecha Bar + Restaurant, located at 835 12th St., who launched Italian restaurant suite A, in Paso Robles, is open Wednesday and Thursday for Il Cortile in 2009 and Latin-inspired La dinner from 5 to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday for lunch from Cosecha Bar + Restaurant in 2013, rocked the 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner from 5 to 11 p.m., and Sunday for Paso Robles restaurant scene in 2023 when brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. On they relinquished ownership of La Cocecha. New Year’s Eve, it will remain open till 1 a.m. For reservations and more information, visit lacosechabr.com and follow the It was a stellar year for the couple, restaurant on Instagram and Facebook @lacosechapaso. garnering their 10th consecutive Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator for Il Cortile and our front-of-house professionals.” and seventh for La Cosecha. The magazine Meyer also brings Michelin star power to lauded both restaurants for their continued outstanding food quality, exciting dining and the team. Previously the general manager at Paso’s The Restaurant at JUSTIN, which cocktail menus, elite service, and robust and earned a Michelin Guide star and green thoughtful wine lists that offer a range of star for sustainable practices in both 2022 prices and represent Paso’s top wineries. and 2023, Meyer has a storied career that However, the MacDonals were ready to kicked off at age 21, when he “became the downsize and knew the perfect transition youngest U.S. sommelier to pass what is now team—Carole’s nephews Eric and Matthew considered level two of the Court [of Master Carfagnini. Sommeliers],” he said. A grand re-opening party in October He was inspired by master sommelier Joseph publicly sealed the deal. Spellman, chairman of the Court’s American The brothers have past ties to La Cosecha— Eric created its mixology program—and boast Chapter at the time, who now serves as national combined decades of experience running food spokesman for JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery and Sonoma’s Landmark Vineyards, both part and beverage programs across the country. of The Wonderful Company. But the clincher for the MacDonals was After obtaining his advanced certification preserving the family legacy. the following year, Meyer left his native The Carfagninis are 100 percent Chicago for Los Angeles “to run the beverage committed to La Cosecha’s continued program for Ashton Kutcher’s Dolce success and wasted little time assembling a stellar local team to help lead its next chapter. restaurant group and then to Viceroy Hotels “[I’m] a Bay Area local, while Matthew calls as the regional food and beverage director Arizona home,” Eric said. “Despite our roots, for Southern California working from … Santa Monica and consulting with (chef) both of us have dedicated the past decade to Paso Robles, being present in the community Alain Ducasse in new territories including Miami, San Francisco, and Mexico,” he said. every other week.” “I returned home to Chicago to take over as They tapped general manager Benjamin sommelier of Michael Jordan’s renowned fineMeyer and executive chef Christian dining establishment 160 Blue, even overseeing Schnabel, both of Paso, to help finesse La Cosecha’s new Spanish- and Peruvian-centric the legendary athlete’s personal wine cellar.” Meyer landed subsequent jobs at restaurant cuisine, with special events, music, and more management firms and standout eateries such slated for the new year. as two Michelin-starred “La Cosecha is more Acadia before the pandemic than great food, it’s a dining hit, when he reassessed his experience,” Eric continued. career and priorities. “Chef Christian collaborates He traveled the country, seamlessly with our team to Send tidbits on everything focused on his music— curate and present exceptional food and drink to Meyer and his band bites@newtimesslo.com. cuisine, complemented by the Conjecture are set to drop hospitality orchestrated by Ben

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26 • New Times • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • www.newtimesslo.com

FLAVOR continued page 28

SIZZLING SIPS The craft cocktail menu at La Cosecha boasts signature and seasonal creations with local ingredients when available. Through the Looking Glass combines mezcal, key lime, orange Curaçao, and green Chartreuse.

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their first album Wrong House by January— then got sidelined permanently in Paso after reconnecting with fellow Chicagoan Spellman. While at JUSTIN, Meyer said, “I would spend my few nights off eating around downtown Paso Robles and returned to La Cosecha on multiple occasions for the energy and the food. It felt like the place to be. “When the opportunity arose to become GM and after meeting with owners Eric and Matt Carfagnini, I felt it was the right fit for all involved and enthusiastically signed on to take the helm.” La Cosecha also benefits from the culinary leadership of Schnabel, Meyer said. His lengthy hospitality career kicked off at age 19, working as a prep cook at Cal Poly, followed by stints at Splash Café in San Luis Obispo, Sissy’s Uptown Cafe in Lompoc, and Thomas Hill Organics in Paso. As a sauté grill cook at Thomas Hill Organics, he worked alongside his mentor Libry Darusman, who went on to help open Michelinmentioned Nate’s on Marsh in SLO and now serves as executive chef at Le French in Denver. “I then worked at various food trucks and later at Enoteca at the La Bellasera Hotel & Suites in Paso,” he continued. In addition to learning “how to combine the five flavor sensations of sweet, salty, acid, bitter, and umami/savory” from Darusman, Schnabel said he draws inspiration from his father, “who taught me to cook from scratch

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805-546-8208 www.newtimesslo.com • December 28, 2023 - January 4, 2024 • New Times • 27

Flavor

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PHOTO COURTESY OF LA COSECHA BAR + RESTAURANT

FLAVOR from page 26

at the young age of 7,” as well as from Irma S. Rombauer’s Joy of Cooking. “I haven’t worked much in Peruvian/ Spanish food in the past,” he conceded, “but I’m now invested and intrigued about knowing the flavors, cuisine, and culture. I do extensive research every day, broadening my knowledge and playing with food in different ways. “I love to think outside the box and collaborate with [Meyer] to find the perfect pairings between food and beverage.” Standout dishes at the restaurant include lamb ribs, Peruvian ceviche, paella, grilled octopus, and flatbreads combined with an extensive craft cocktail list and carefully curated selection of local and imported wines. The team takes its namesake—Spanish for harvest—seriously, sourcing from a slew of area producers, including “Farmer Frank’s Mushrooms … Windrose Farms for greens and carrots, Adelaida Springs for ground beef, Central Coast Lavender for honey, and the produce we get from Berryman is as local as available,” Meyer said. They had to eliminate some “old favorite comfort items in lieu of a more focused menu,” Meyer added, “but when you are choosing to become Spanish and Peruvian, that’s a heavy task. It can’t be phoned in. It has to be authentic. “Spain and Peru have garnered more attention from Michelin than any two other countries combined. We’re not out for a star, but it doesn’t mean we don’t take it just as seriously as if we already had one. “A bib would be apropos though—wink, wink, Tire Man.” Rounding out the re-envisioned restaurant is a sophisticated, yet inviting and eclectic

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atmosphere that supports local artists, philanthropists, and businesses. For example, unique and sometimes mismatched pieces of flatware and stemware from antique and thrift shops adorn tables—even walls—and spark conversation. “The name of the game in a town like Paso, which I am so happy to call my home now, is engagement, narrative, and consistency, but make sure you have fun and don’t take yourself too seriously along the way,” Meyer said. “Take the food and hospitality seriously, but you shouldn’t be stiff or scripted. They smell that a mile away.” ∆

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CEVICHE PERUANO La Cosecha’s signature appetizer combines aji amarillo tigre de leche, or yellow pepper-citrus marinade, and corn-based cancha and choclo with sushigrade raw fish upon ordering for maximum freshness.

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CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 23CV0691