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Tony: Bourdain’s coming-of-age [20]

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Lompoc considers official censure of Councilmember Steve Bridge over felony charges [6]

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

NEWS

Call boxes on the chopping block [3]

ARTS

A YA novel about climate change [18]

EATS

Big Mama’s delivers baked goods [22]

Contents

AUGUST 2 7 - SEP TEMBER 3, 2026 VOL . 2 7 NO. 2 7

I

n September, the Lompoc City Council will decide whether to censure council member Steve Bridge due to charges filed against him last year over alleged misuse of city funds. Bridge pleaded not guilty, but his testimony to a Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office investigator is enough for the censure, according to Councilmember Jeremy Ball, who’s leading the effort. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood writes about it [6].

Also, find stories about the county’s discussion about taking down call boxes [3]; a local author’s young adult novel pegged to climate change and loss [18]; and the couple behind Big Mama’s Bakery in Guadalupe [22].

Camillia Lanham editor

HOT SEAT: Steve Bridge’s fellow

Lompoc City Council members will be discussing whether to officially censure him in September due to the fraud charges against him tied to his alleged misuse of city funds.

Cover courtesy file photo by Maria Vega > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

NEWS

News Briefs ...............................................................................3 Political Watch.........................................................................3 Spotlight...................................................................................... 7

EVENTS CALENDAR

Hot Stuff ....................................................................................10

ARTS

Arts Briefs ................................................................................18

OPINION

Web Poll ......................................................................................8 Commentary .............................................................................8 Letters ..........................................................................................8 Modern World ..........................................................................8 Canary ..........................................................................................9

MOVIES

Reviews ....................................................................................20

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News POLITICAL WATCH •On Aug. 17, U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) released a statement to address the Department of Energy’s (DOE) decision to distribute $271 million in Civil Nuclear Credit Program funds to help support Diablo Canyon Power Plant’s extended operations. “This announcement marks another important milestone in reducing our reliance on fossil fuels,” Carbajal stated. “Diablo Canyon has long been a critical source of carbon-free electricity, and this $271 million award will help ensure that Diablo Canyon remains a stable part of our power grid as California continues its transition toward renewable energy.” According to his office, Carbajal’s position as a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee allowed him to play a key role in crafting and passing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—which funds the Civil Nuclear Credit Program. Carbajal described maintaining Diablo Canyon Power Plant as “essential for meeting our climate goals, protecting grid reliability, and supporting good-paying jobs on the Central Coast.”

He added that he will “continue working to ensure that local communities benefit from Diablo Canyon’s extended operations and that safety remains the top priority every step of the way.”

•Gov. Gavin Newsom announced his appointment of Santa Barbara resident William Shafroth to the California State Coastal Conservancy on Aug. 21. The registered Democrat and Under Canvas Inc. board member recently served as president and chief executive officer of the National Park Foundation, between 2015 and 2025. After graduating from UCSB with a bachelor’s degree in political science and environmental studies, Shafroth earned a master’s in public administration from Harvard University.

Between 1981 and 1982, Shafroth worked as a farmland analyst for the California Department of Conservation.

Other roles he’s held throughout his career include western regional director at American Farmland Trust (1982-1990), assistant secretary for land and coastal resources at the California Resources Agency (19911994), founding executive director at Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund (1994-2000), founder and executive director at Colorado Conservation Trust (2000-2007), and founder and principal at Red Sheep Consulting LLC (2013-2015). Between 2009 and 2013, Shafroth held multiple positions at the Department of the Interior, including counselor for Secretary Ken Salazar for America’s Great Outdoors and principal deputy assistant for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.

•Drafted by State Sen. John Laird (D-Santa Cruz), Senate Bill 1207 passed the California Legislature on Aug. 18 and advanced to Gov. Gavin Newsom for consideration. This legislation would allow California Conservation Corps (CCC) corpsmembers who continue into state service to purchase up to three years of retirement service credit through the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) for their time in the CCC. The change puts CCC service on similar footing with the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps, whose participants can already purchase retirement service credit for their service. “For 50 years, the California Conservation Corps has given generations of young people the opportunity to serve our state, build valuable skills and make a lasting difference in communities across California,” Laird said in an Aug. 18 statement. “SB 1207 recognizes the value of that service and helps ensure the Corps remains strong for the next 50 years.” The CCC celebrated its 50th anniversary in July. To mark the occasion, the CCC Foundation hosted a reception honoring some of the Corps’ “legislative champions,” including Laird for his long-standing support of the CCC. In early August, the CCC presented Laird with its 50th Anniversary Legislative Champions Award in recognition of his continued support for the Corps and its mission. m

➤ Reputation repair [6]

August 27 - September 3, 2026

➤ Spotlight [7] PHOTO COURTESY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

said it was too early to tell.

“SLOCOG [San Luis Obispo Council of Governments] just made this action as of August,” Send any news Williamson said. “So, their or story tips to system is theoretically removed news@santamariasun.com. in the next 12 months.”

At its Aug. 5. meeting, SLOCOG approved a multimonth, phase-out project to incrementally remove all 41 of San Luis Obispo County’s remaining emergency call boxes, posted along the U.S. 101 and state highways 1, 166, 33, and 41.

“All major cellular service providers report coverage along SLO County freeways and state highways,” the SLOCOG staff report stated, “eliminating the original need for a fixed-roadside communication system.”

SBCAG board member and Santa Maria Mayor Alice Patino said she doubted that Santa Barbara County could make the same claim.

“I travel 166 and there are a lot of dead zones on 166. I would hate to see people get stranded there,” Patino said. “I still think we need to maintain CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW? Over the past decade, Santa some of them on 166.”

Barbara County’s call box network—made up of 47 call boxes Williamson said that staff along U.S. 101, highways 154 and 166, and other routes, which will bring back options that cost $100,000 annually to maintain—experienced a 90 percent include preserving some decline in call volume, a county transportation planner recently call boxes and/or enhancing reported. cellphone coverage in “dead zones” that raise concerns.

County explores All 47 of Santa Barbara County’s remaining alternatives to call boxes are stationed in “rural, mountainous, or low-coverage corridors where cellular emergency call boxes reliability varies,” according to the staff report.

Established in 1987, Santa Barbara County’s However, amid recent tests Williamson emergency call box network once included more conducted near each call box, he reported than 350 roadside phones across the region. successful cellphone calls and texts to emergency With 47 of those phones remaining, the services near 43 of the 47 boxes. county continues defying a statewide trend of Over the past decade, Santa Barbara County’s dismantling public call boxes and is on track call box network experienced a 90 percent to become “a call box island,” Transportation decline in call volume, Williamson told board Planner Peter Williamson said.

During the Santa Barbara County Association members. On average, the 47 call boxes are used 1.5 times per year, he added. of Governments’ (SBCAG) Aug. 20 meeting, “What you’re really telling us is it’s so Williamson told board members that several antiquated that it’s gone the way of the buggy jurisdictions across California—including San whip?” SBCAG board member and Solvang Luis Obispo and Ventura counties—have either Mayor David Brown said. removed or are now in the process of removing Fellow SBCAG board member and county their emergency call box systems.

5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino added If Santa Barbara County were to follow suit, that emergency call boxes have “gone the way of it could redirect the call box network’s $100,000 phone booths and phone books.” budget—funded annually by a $1 fee paid as part —Caleb Wiseblood of county residents’ vehicle registration costs—to support alternative programs SBCAG ultimately Lompoc modifies RV directed staff to explore. parking rules, increases “The allocation for the DMV $1 fee is dedicated to our county for motorist aid safety penalty for camping in public systems,” Williamson told SBCAG board In another attempt to iron out parking members. “They are dedicated to our region, and regulations, the Lompoc City Council decided we can apply them how it makes sense to serve that RV owners with permits are exempt from a the motorists.”

72-hour parking ban.

Before directing staff to return with potential “It exempts RV owners with RV parking uses that could benefit from the call box funding, permits from the city’s ordinance that requires SBCAG board members took turns questioning you to move your vehicle every 72 hours,” City Williamson about his deep dive into the both Attorney Jeff Malawy said at the Aug. 18 meeting. the county’s and neighboring regions’ call box “However, staff believed that it was still important networks. to require an RV with an RV parking permit to SBCAG board member and Buellton Mayor not stay permanently on the street in the exact David Silva asked Williamson if he observed “any same spot essentially forever, which is what would unforeseen consequences” of call box removals in be allowed if we completely exempted RVs with San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties. permits from the 72-hour rule.”

“For [Ventura County], there was some Last October, the city passed a rule stating interest in keeping one call box for a museum any vehicle parked on the street for more than 72 purpose/situation,” Williamson said. “Beyond hours may be towed. Now, vehicle owners with that, I haven’t heard any feedback.” a permit will be able to park in one location for As for San Luis Obispo County, Williamson 30 days before moving. City staff originally set

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the time frame at 21 days, but council members increased the number as part of its 4-1 vote to approve the ordinance on Aug. 18.

Councilmember Jeremy Ball dissented, saying that he was “frustrated” that an RV parking discussion was part of the same agenda item as a clause that will help police enforce camping and personal property storage violations at bus stops.

Other council members were confused about the combination, too.

City staff said the intention of the parking rule was for people with RVs to be able to keep them in their neighborhoods, but public commenters saw it differently.

“We have plenty of parking in our city that residents should be able to park an RV in front of their house without having to move every 21 days. I don’t go camping every 21 days. My RV may sit for 30 days, 45 days,” one speaker said at the meeting. “We actually threw our permit away because it was useless for us, and we now pay storage because the city won’t let us stay parked in front of our house.”

At the suggestion of the Lompoc Police Department, the new rules also extend the window of time when vehicles in violation may be penalized. The department’s call volume and the number of weekend tows were cited as part of the decision, Malawy explained.

Police now have 14 days (increased from 48 hours) to cite or tow vehicles in violation. Even if the driver properly moves their RV in those two weeks, it may still be towed.

Multiple residents exceeded their threeminute time limit during public comment, including those who spoke against turning infractions into misdemeanor charges for camping and storing personal items at bus stops.

“When you turn violations into misdemeanor offenses, you create another potential point of contact between vulnerable residents and the criminal legal system,” a speaker from 805 Undocufund said. “For an undocumented resident, those encounters can carry immigration consequences that many other Lompoc residents never have to consider.”

Resources are offered before anything else, Malawy explained. But if someone denies those resources, the ordinance will aid with enforcement because someone charged with an infraction may not show up to court. A judge is more likely to issue a bench warrant for police to arrest someone for a misdemeanor, so that they appear in court.

Increasing infractions to misdemeanors was another reason why Councilmember Ball dissented.

“One of the issues with the unhoused population is not regularly getting notices about court dates, missing court dates and becoming— unintentionally in some ways—becoming a part of the criminal system,” Ball said. “In the worst-case scenario, I’m worried that we turn a lot of people that are dealing with a lot of issues into criminals.”

—Madison White

Developer pitches 26 apartments for Buellton’s Avenue of Flags

Ahead of submitting an official project proposal, the owner of a vacant 0.7-acre lot in Buellton gave city leaders a glimpse into his hopes for the property.

Located north of Hotel Hygge and south of Farmhouse Motel, 560 Avenue of Flags was at the center of a conceptual review hearing, which took place during the Buellton City Council’s Aug. 24 meeting.

Property owner Joe Collins plans to propose a four-story, mixed-use building with ground-floor commercial spaces for storefronts or other types of business tenants, 26 upper-floor apartment units, and 49 parking spots.

“First of all, it’s a beautiful building,” Councilmember Carla Mead said after a

NEWS continued page 4

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News “moderate” incomes, and two apartments fit for “very low” incomes.

“The affordable housing that’s being provided is not something that’s insignificant. It is significant. It’s going to be two units for the very low-income residents,” Arris Studio Architects representative Thom Jess told the council. “And that’s deed-restricted from here until, essentially, the lifetime of the project. That’s going to provide housing for people in desperate need of housing.”

One concern Councilmember John Sanchez raised about Collins’ proposed 26 apartments was based on a personal preference.

“I still don’t understand the affection for no gas, no carbon. I just don’t get it,” Sanchez said after Jess confirmed that the developer anticipates offering electric kitchen stoves over gas-powered in all 26 units.

“I’m opposed to that,” Sanchez said. “We have power outages.”

For a project of this kind, Jess clarified, “we would have solar on the roof” to counter situations Sanchez is worried about.

“In addition to solar, we’d also have a battery backup,” Jess said, “so that it can power the building in the instance of a power outage for a certain amount of time.” ❍ —Caleb Wiseblood

NEWS from page 3

presentation led by representatives from Collins’ planning consultant Oasis Associates and architect Arris Studio Architects.

The Aug. 24 hearing was scheduled to give council members a chance to provide initial input on Collins’ project description, vicinity map, and conceptual renderings—highlighting the development’s art deco traits—before he finalizes a project application, Contract City Planner Irma Tucker explained at the meeting.

“I would love to see a nighttime rendering,” Mead suggested, “just to see a little bit more of what you have in mind for that open, inviting commercial space.”

As for input regarding what she hopes to see in the project’s formal application, Mead recommended an emphasis on “the vision for the commercial space. … and just how that is going to be something that draws people to the Avenue [of Flags], which is what we want to be doing.”

The city’s longtime goal of revitalizing the Avenue of Flags corridor and incentivizing redevelopment also led the council to adopt new housing restrictions in March that prohibit motels in the area from offering long-term housing.

The ordinance led Farmhouse Motel coowner Kerry Moriarty to sue the city for forcing him to convert the property’s 22 long-term Correction residency units into motel rooms. Following the In our annual Best of Northern Santa Aug. 24 conceptual review for 560 Avenue of Barbara County Readers Poll (Aug. 20) the Sun Flags, the Buellton City Council met in closed inadvertently omitted a tie for Best Museum. session to discuss the ongoing lawsuit.

The Natural History Museum of Santa Maria While Moriarty previously told the Sun that tied with the Children’s the average monthly rent for Resource & Referral Farmhouse tenants ranges Discovery Museum. To see between $900 and $1,350, the updated Best of Northern the mixed-use project at 560 Send any news Santa Barbara County listing, Avenue of Flags plans to offer or story tips to news@santamariasun.com. visit santamariasun.com. The 22 market-rate apartments, Sun regrets the error. ❍ two apartments fit for

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SINGLE RECUSAL: During the Lompoc City Council’s Aug. 18 meeting, Councilmember Steve Bridge abstained from voting in a motion to bring back a formal censure resolution—one to reprimand Bridge for being charged with multiple felonies, including misusing city funds.

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Reputation repair Lompoc City Council considers censuring Steve Bridge

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

T

wo days before Lompoc City Councilmember Steve Bridge’s arraignment in late 2025, one of his peers on the dais asked him to step down from his role as an elected official.

When Bridge—who pled not guilty to forgery, identity theft, and misusing city funds—showed no sign of resigning, Councilmember Jeremy Ball motioned for the council to consider taking disciplinary action in December 2025.

But he failed to get a second.

Nine months later, the council changed its tune and Ball finally got his second, followed swiftly by a third in a 3-1 vote that set the stage for an upcoming censure hearing.

“I think the public’s been pushing for something, and inaction is becoming more and more awkward for certain leaders,” Ball told the Sun. Consistent outcry from public speakers at several council meetings made the council’s consideration of a formal censure “harder and harder to avoid,” he explained.

“The public showed up, and they continue to show up. They’ve cared enough to make sure not to let this go away or be swept under the rug,” Ball said. “And that’s where we are now.”

During its Aug. 18 meeting, the Lompoc City Council voted 3-1 (Bridge abstained, while Councilmember Dirk Starbuck dissented) to bring a censure forward.

Ball volunteered to draft the censure resolution—agendized for a Sept. 15 hearing.

The Sun reached out to Bridge, but he declined SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE to comment about the censure hearing, which will grant him the opportunity to refute any allegations, and his ongoing court appearances.

His next court conference hearing is scheduled for Sept. 9, with Santa Barbara County Superior Court Judge Juan Higuera presiding.

“I don’t have anything personal against Mr. Bridge,” Councilmember Ball said. “I just know that if I was in the same boat, I just know the other side—whoever that may be—would be trying to show me the exits and anything at their disposal to help me leave.”

One of the reasons Ball said he’s been so adamant about the City Council censure happening ahead of any court trial or verdict is because of what Bridge has already said about the crimes he’s charged with.

6 • Sun • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

“Even in just normal public life, you’re supposed to hesitate before you fill out a form fraudulently. That’s kind of a given,” Ball told the Sun. “Every single time we’re talking about something important, how we push money around as a city, as a council, we’re sitting next to someone that is charged with misusing funds.”

If the council were to approve Ball’s censure draft in mid-September, it would be the first resolution of its kind to formally reprimand a Lompoc official.

“At no point in Lompoc city history has a mayor or council member been censured,” Lompoc Community Relations Manager and Public Information Officer Emily Prueitt told the Sun via email.

As of Aug. 20, Ball said he was in the middle of drafting the censure resolution and will eventually give it to City Attorney Jeff Malawy for staff input.

“I think maybe there was an assumption that … this would kind of fizzle out and no one will care,” Ball said. “But I think you’re finding the opposite: People are still really annoyed that their city’s being defined by this.”

During public comment at the council’s Aug. 18 meeting, participating speakers included Lompoc resident Carl Jones, who described the council’s slow pace toward agendizing a censure discussion as damaging the council’s reputation.

“To sit back for this long of a time and do nothing is not OK. Multiple people will probably lose their seats this November because of it.

That’s the truth,” Jones said. “He might be innocent, he might be guilty, but the public doesn’t trust you. … The council as a whole has lost the trust of the people.”

Lompoc officials with term limits expiring by the end of 2026 include Mayor Jim Mosby, and City Council members Victor Vega and Dirk Starbuck.

Vega will run against Sharlameigne Segovia to keep his 2nd District post. Starbuck didn’t file for reelection in the 3rd District—in which voters will decide between candidates Sarah Anne Read and Nick Gonzales.

While both Bridge’s and Ball’s terms run through 2028, Ball is running against Mosby for the mayor’s seat in November’s general election.

“I think you should do your best to save some face moving forward,” Jones told the council.

“At a minimum, we should be doing a verbal censure saying, ‘Hey, you’re wrong for putting yourself in this position; for putting the council into this position where it’s created so much mistrust in this council.’” m

When asked about past Lompoc city rebate applications he had filled out in 2024 and 2025, Bridge told a Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office investigator that he used a contractor’s license number he found on the internet to qualify for more than $10,000 in rebates, according to court documents.

“They needed a receipt to document the work that was done, so I ginned that thing up,” Bridge told the investigator.

He was referring to rebate applications tied to a handful of contract repair projects at properties across town completed by himself and his son, Scott Turner, “neither of whom is a licensed contractor,” Senior Deputy District Attorney Brian Cota stated in court documents.

“Bridge knew that the work needed to be performed by a licensed contractor, and he knew that had not occurred,” Cota wrote. “He further acknowledged that ‘maybe that’s fraud’ and that it was ‘probably a little shady.’”

Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at “Whatever disputes may exist regarding the cwiseblood@santamariasun.com. facts or the law in this matter,” Cota continued, “one point is beyond debate: Those statements—made about the manner in which Bridge obtained public funds—are words no sitting member of the Lompoc City Council should ever utter. …

He was a member of the legislative body that created, funded, and exercised ultimate authority over the rebate program from which he stole.”

The license number Bridge allegedly lifted from an internet search for his rebate applications belonged to an Escondidobased contractor known as Turner AT THE FOREFRONT: Lompoc City Councilmember Jeremy Ball described the city of Lompoc as being victimized by ongoing court & Associate. That proceedings surrounding a fellow council member’s felony charges for license expired in misusing city funds.

1994.

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SPOTLIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF AUDI DUARTE

OPEN HOUSE: On Aug. 14, a ribbon-cutting ceremony took place to celebrate the grand opening of The Grapevine Residential Care Facility for the Elderly in Santa Maria, founded by Orcutt-based nurse and caregiver Audi Duarte (center, just right of the giant scissors).

Where the heart is The Grapevine brings new residential elder care, hospice options to Santa Maria

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

They don’t have family who can take care of rom the outside, the one-story home at 1130 them, and they are home by themselves.

“I just thought: How can I bring them all Grapevine Road in Santa Maria appears together in one place? A nice place that they to be just that: a nice house neighboring can enjoy, like home,” she continued. “That’s others in a suburban neighborhood. how I started envisioning a home like this, Past the front door, there are six bedrooms, where [residents] can feel special, feel heard, a spacious kitchen, and a living room stocked … dignity, compassion, care, comfort, safety, with board games, puzzles, magazines, and and that they have everything that they need.” coloring books within the city’s newest For anyone interested in learning more licensed elder care home. about The Grapevine, Duarte said she’s always Orcutt resident Audi Duarte, founder of The Grapevine Residential Care Facility for open to offering tours of the property, which the Elderly, celebrated the property’s grand includes six private bedrooms—two of which opening with an official ribbon cutting are designated to specifically accommodate ceremony on Aug. 14. residents in need of hospice care.

“I always wanted it to be a house; something “They can always call and schedule a tour, that feels like home,” Duarte told the Sun. and I’m happy to walk with them and answer She and her husband bought the house on all of their questions,” said Duarte, who also Grapevine Road last year with the intention of lists and regularly updates the facility’s various developing it as a residential care home. amenities and availability details online at “It was a long journey. … It felt endless,” grapevinercfe.com.

Duarte said with a laugh. “It took six months While caregivers on-site provide residents for the licensing and everything in place.” with daily meals and assist with showers, baths, Duarte’s goal behind The Grapevine was to laundry, and other needs, they’ll also regularly create a warm, homelike environment where host group activities for residents to take part “every resident is treated like family,” she said, in if they wish, Duarte said. with shared social spaces such as the facility’s “Baking is one of the things that I’m looking living room complete with a cozy fireplace and forward to,” said Duarte, who added that a comfy outdoor garden area with plenty of she’ll be adjusting what activities are offered patio furniture. depending on feedback from residents.

There’s also caregiving staff on-site at the If nobody signs up for bingo, for example, home around the clock, of course, she added. she’ll take it off the list, despite how much she “We have two caregivers in the morning, personally enjoys it. two in the afternoon, and one at night, awake “I’ll have to see who’s interested in it,” [throughout the night],” Duarte said. “And me MUSIC Duarte said with a laugh. on call, always around. … They will always have somebody to ask for something.

Highlight “They’re always going to be supervised,” she • EstablishedFLAVOR/EATS in 2023, the 37th District continued, “[To] make sure that they feel at Buyers Coalition announced that it was home and their family has peace of mind that able to allot 4,000 pounds of beef—from its they’re going to be well taken care of.” steer purchasesINFO at this year’s Santa Barbara Duarte, a registered nurse, had ambitions County Fair earlier this summer—to 13 since childhood of a nursing career. She local nonprofits. This donation is valued previously worked as a private home caregiver CALENDAR at $30,000 worth of beef, according to the for patients across the Central Coast, including coalition. The beneficiaries include Meals the Santa Barbara area and Montecito.

That Connect, the Good Samaritan Shelter, Some of those experiences helped inform her local senior centers, OPINIONand other organizations. decision to create a place like The Grapevine.

In total, the coalition supported 127 youth Especially, she said, based on her experiences exhibitors at this year’s fair, cumulatively of caring for individuals who lived on their NEWS purchasing 26,000 pounds of protein. For more own, without a spouse info on the coalition, visit or any other housemates 37thbuyerscoalition.com. m around.

STROKES “I noticed the need for Reach Senior Staff Send business and a home like this,” Duarte Writer Caleb Wiseblood nonprofit information to explained. “There are some ARTSat cwiseblood@ spotlight@santamariasun.com. patients who don’t have santamariasun.com. family. They don’t have kids.

F

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www.santamariasun.com • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • Sun • 7

Opinion ONLINE POLL

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75%

25% 0% 0%

Year-round outdoor recreation opportunities.

Local businesses’ creative products and services.

The restaurants, bars, wineries, and breweries.

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Northern Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly 801 S Broadway Suite 3 Santa Maria, CA 93454 EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING | 805-347-1968 E-MAIL | mail@santamariasun.com WEB | www.santamariasun.com FOUNDER | Steve Moss 1948-2005 EDITORIAL EDITOR | Camillia Lanham ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Andrea Rooks SENIOR STAFF WRITER | Caleb Wiseblood STAFF WRITER | Madison White CALENDAR EDITOR | Angelena Stevens STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER | Pieter Saayman ART DIRECTOR | Alex Zuniga EDITORIAL DESIGNERS | Leni Litonjua, Taylor Saugstad CONTRIBUTORS | Glen Starkey, Anna Starkey, Ross Mayfield ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE | Kimberly Rosa ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES | Katy Gray, Tyler Dunavan PRODUCTION ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER | Mary Grace Flaus GRAPHIC DESIGNERS | Ellen Fukumoto, John Nygaard Business Cindy Rucker MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR | Malia Jandra CIRCULATION | Jim Chaney, Michael Ferrell, Margo Baldives, Simon Lopez, Joe Brice PUBLISHERS | Bob Rucker, Alex Zuniga SUBMITTING LETTERS WRITE | Mail your letter to Sun Letters, 801 S Broadway Suite 3, Santa Maria, CA 93454.

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➤ Canary [8]

Trump is coming

Our coastline is in jeopardy of losing protections under a new federal review singling out the Coastal Management Plan

BY GIANNA PATCHEN & ANDREW CHRISTIE

T

the authority to review federal decisions to ensure they align with state Coastal policies. he same administration that is slashing The Coastal Commission and the Coastal funding for climate research and the Conservancy are the state agencies that Environmental Protection Agency, administer this program. Federal reviews of state propping up the coal industry, gutting the coastal management programs normally happen Endangered Species Act and planning to open the entire California coast to offshore oil drilling every five to 10 years. California’s program was last reviewed in 2024. That clock did not restart is now taking aim at the California Coastal when Donald Trump was elected.

Commission.

Over the last 50 years, every federal review In 2016, Donald Trump began a decade-long affirmed that California’s coastal program is fight with the Coastal Commission, set off when doing a good job. The Trump administration they told him to follow the law by getting a permit and paying a fee after illegally installing a made it clear this premature review is retaliation for the Coastal Commission trying to protect 70-foot flagpole at his Palos Verdes golf course.

In 2025, the Trump administration floated the the coast from the impacts of Elon Musk’s idea of defunding the Coastal Commission as he SpaceX rocket launches and Sable Offshore’s resurrected oil pipeline held hostage $40 billion in wildfire disaster aid The directive charges that the Coastal for California.

Commission “unfoundedly obstructed This May, Trump’s Commerce Department spaceport development” at the SpaceX project initiated a review of the California Coastal at Vandenberg Space Force Base. But the Management Program’s federal certification commission’s actions were not unfounded, nor and funding, claiming that it is a hotbed of “obstructionist policies,” “unfounded objections,” did they obstruct spaceport development. The commission simply pointed out that SpaceX is “environmental extremism,” and “bad faith.” not the federal government so it is not exempt The federal review directive “specifically from state law and must get a state coastal singles out California over Florida, Texas, development permit for its commercial satellite and Virginia, citing California’s objections launch program. The commission also noted the to spaceports for SpaceX,” notes Sierra Club lack of data onMUSIC potential impacts to the adjacent Campaign Manager Caty Wagner. “The attacks watershed and marine reserve from the steep on states that don’t fold to the current federal increase in launches. Hence, the project was administration are petty and embarrassing.

FLAVOR/EATS deemed inconsistent with the California Coastal This is another example of a tyrant’s temper tantrum—there is no logical reason to attack the Management Program. The federal government disagreed, andINFO the project proceeded. program other than greed and to put corporate The federal directive scolds California’s interests over the public.” program for impeding offshore oil production, A little background: The federal law called pipeline maintenance, the Coastal Zone Management Act gives CALENDAR undersea cables, etc.

First of all, that’s not true. coastal states the ability to As Surfrider has noted, the create coastal management OPINION program “approves the vast programs. California’s majority of projects it reviews, program protects coastal Send us your while catching the rare resources and marine life, views and opinion to NEWS ones that pose real harm.” public access to coastal letters@santamariasun.com.

But even more importantly, areas, and gives California

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STROKES

ARTS

COMMENTARY Congress created the Coastal Zone Management Act precisely because, “The increasing and competing demands upon the lands and waters of our coastal zone occasioned by population growth and economic development … have resulted in the loss of living marine resources, wildlife, nutrient-rich areas, permanent and adverse changes to ecological systems, decreasing open space for public use, and shoreline erosion.”

“The Trump administration is displaying yet another overreach by attacking California coasts and oceans for private industries,” Wagner said. “Trump is attempting to cut funding and effectively dismantle California’s Coastal Management Program.” The damage this will do to our coast and ocean and marine wildlife “cannot be undone after he is gone.”

But this is also an attack on local communities’ power to influence governmental decisions. The coastal program requires notification of development proposals, public comment opportunities, and the right to appeal when local governments make decisions that violate coastal protection and public access policies. Essentially, Trump is threatening your ability to have a say in coastal management.

It’s time to make it clear that California’s Coastal Management Program must remain federally certified and that the 2024 review already determined the program is fully compliant with federal law. We will not stand by while the Trump administration attacks our right to protect our coastal ecosystems and communities. Whether you live near, work on, visit, or enjoy our coast in any way, this is the time to share why it matters to you. m Gianna Patchen is chapter coordinator for the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club. Andrew Christie served as chapter director from 2004 to 2023. Send a letter for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.

LETTER Oceano airport renovation should not have been approved The California Coastal Commission approved a renovation plan for Oceano airport which will cost us more than $4 million.

This decision underestimates the environmental injustice the presence of the airport does to Oceano. Dedicating 60 acres of prime coastal wetlands to a limited-use, recreational airport does a great injustice to Oceano, which is starved of general recreational opportunities available to all, not just the rich.

Does repairing the airport’s parking lot and hangars benefit our community? The airport’s administration thinks us idiots to be appeased by a handful of “fun” days, one of which, last Christmas, cost $160,000 to bring in dozens of plastic Christmas trees and a pile of snow for the kids. That money could have taken all the Oceano kids to the snow for the entire day!

The airport’s administration said plainly and shamelessly that the Oceano airport is and will continue to function as a limited-use, recreational aviation facility. The emergency and community benefits arguments are mystifications to cover this truth. Stated so openly and freely, it sounds almost immoral that money should be spent on repairing and improving a super elite recreational facility while Oceano residents don’t have a safe beach, a bicycle/pedestrian-safe route to the beach, or a beach parking lot.

This plan should have been denied while demanding an independent land use study to discover what would really be the best way to use those 60 acres to the benefit of the Oceano community and the environment.

Lucia Casalinuovo Oceano

8 • Sun • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Opinion

Phone a friend

S

ince last December, Lompoc City Councilmember Jeremy Ball has been asking his colleagues on the dais to join him in doing something about fellow Councilmember Steve Bridge’s predicament.

No, not to help the guy. To slap him on the wrist.

Ball finally got his wish, kind of.

The council agreed 3-1, with Bridge abstaining and Councilmember Dirk Starbuck opposed, to take up the discussion of whether to officially censure Bridge for the felony charges against him.

It’s about time.

Earlier this year, Bridge’s conversation with a District Attorney’s Office investigator really shined a light on the situation. Bridge, who’s being charged with forgery, identity theft, and misusing city funds, told the investigator that he used a contractor’s license number he found on the internet to qualify for more than $10,000 in city rebates.

“They needed a receipt to document the work that was done, so I ginned that thing up,” Bridge said.

That statement and other statements similar to it are enough for the council to take action, Ball argued.

“Even in just normal public life, you’re supposed to hesitate before you fill out a form fraudulently. That’s kind of a given,” Ball said.

“Every single time we’re talking about something important, how we push money around as a city, as a council, we’re sitting next to someone that is charged with misusing funds.”

Mayor Jim Mosby has been reticent to take public action against Bridge for the charges against him, saying the council doesn’t wear the black robes of the justice system. During

the Aug. 18 meeting, Mosby referred to the potential censure as a form of bullying—but he voted to have the discussion anyway.

A censure really has no teeth. It’s other council members’ way of saying they disapprove of a colleague’s actions and that those actions don’t conform with city policies or ethics. Censuring someone who admits to falsifying records isn’t bullying. It’s appropriate.

If Bridge were a city employee, he would have been placed on leave or even fired.

I don’t have a lot of faith that Ball will get what he wants in September, no matter what the public has to say about it: “The public showed up, and they continue to show up. They’ve cared enough to make sure not to let this go away or be swept under the rug. … And that’s where we are now.”

Well, there’s also a whole court case dedicated to the issue, so I don’t think this is getting swept under the rug. But you know what is? Call boxes.

Santa Barbara County wants to sweep them out the door, actually. The county Association of Governments (SBCAG) is weighing whether to pull the remaining 47 call boxes off the road. On average those boxes are used 1.5 times a year, Transportation Planner Peter Williamson told the SBCAG board. As board member and Solvang Mayor David Brown put it: “What you’re telling us is it’s so antiquated that it’s gone the way of the buggy whip?”

Well, I wouldn’t go that far! As Santa Maria Mayor Alice Patino said, there are plenty of spots with bad or no cell service. It would suck to be stranded without a yellow box in sight. ❍ The Canary loves yellow! Send some color to canary@santamariasun.com.

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MUSIC • CONCERTS • FESTIVALS • THEATER • COMEDY • CLASSES • COMMUNITY EVENTS • TOURS • BEER, WINE, SPIRITS, FOOD • SPORTS • FUNDRAISERS • AND MORE! www.santamariasun.com • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • Sun • 9

Hot Stuff

10-DAY CALENDAR: AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 6, 2026

GLIEBE-GOETZ AT CYPRESS GALLERY

The Lompoc Valley Art Association’s Cypress Gallery will feature an artist show by Joe Gliebe-Goetz, titled Landscapes, Gemstones and New Directions, from Thursday, Sept. 3, through Sunday, Sept. 27. See the Southern California native’s work that includes an array of paintings and visit lompocart.org for more information.

—Angie Stevens

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOE GLIEBE-GOETZ

ARTS SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

“ALONG THE HIGH EMBANKMENTS” AT PRESQU’ILE Los Angeles Nomadic Division and Presqu’ile present Cole Sternberg’s work along the high embankments, a free, self-guided installation. Saturdays, Sundays, 12-5 p.m. through Sept. 20. Free.

Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presquile Dr, Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

ARTIST TALK: ALL THAT REMAINS: WORKS BY TOM PAZDERKA View “All That Remains”, collection of artwork by Tom Pazderka that explore themes of memory, place, and the traces left behind over time.

Sept. 2, 4-7 p.m. (805) 922-6966 ext. 3465. hancockcollege.edu. Allan Hancock College, Ann Foxworthy Gallery, 800 S College Dr, Santa Maria, CA 93454, Santa Maria.

BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. (805) 928-7799.

Kleindancesarts.com. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.

DANCE AND MUSIC CLASSES KleinDance Arts offers various dance and music classes for a wide variety of ages! Visit the link for info! Mondays-Saturdays, 4-8 p.m.

(805) 268-2530. kleindancearts.com.

KleinDance Arts, 1954 S Broadway, Suite J, Santa Maria.

DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE Classes available for all skill levels.

Class sizes limited. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, (805) 937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.

FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive

a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17.

First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

“POST-WILD: NATURE IN THE 21ST CENTURY” The Santa Barbara County Office of Arts and Culture is proud to present Post-Wild: Nature in the 21st Century, a juried exhibition featuring artworks by 34 emerging and established Santa Barbara County artists. Co-curated

by Allan Hancock College Professor of Fine Arts Laura-Susan Thomas and the Office of Arts and Culture, the exhibition highlights artists working across painting, ceramics, photography, digital media, and mixed media. Mondays-Fridays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. through Nov. 1 Free. sbac.ca.gov/post-wildnature-in-the-21st-century/. Betteravia Art Gallery, 511 Lakeside Pkwy, Santa Maria.

VALLEY ART GALLERY: ROTATING DISPLAYS Featured artists of Santa Maria’s Valley Art Gallery frequently display their works at the airport. Check website for details on monthly exhibits and full list of the gallery’s artists. ongoing valleygallery.org. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

“HORIZONS” AT GALLERY LOS OLIVOS Morgan Green, Carol Talley and Terri Taber present “Horizons”. They reach beyond their established plein air genre to offer studio, abstract, and still life works.

Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 688-7517. .GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

“WHEN THE EARTH WHISPERS BACK: NATURE’S HOPE” Woman Painters West, an organization of juried professional woman artists (100 + years old) were

invited to exhibit at this museum creating paintings that answered their theme. See 48 paintings juried from 100 entries on view at the museum. Through Sept. 16 Canatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

“LANDSCAPES, GEMSTONES AND NEW DIRECTIONS” EXHIBIT BY JOE GLIEBE-GOETZ The Lompoc Valley Art Association’s Cypress Gallery will be featuring “Landscapes, Gemstones and New Directions,” an artist show by Joe Gliebe-Goetz. Sept. 3-27 (408) 707-8005. lompocart.org. Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

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, Arroyo Grande.

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. (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA Check the venue’s calendar for storytelling workshops, lectures, movie nights, and discussions held on a periodic basis. ongoing thelavra.org/home. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ACRYLIC ADVENTURES WITH CAROLINA LUNA Join Carolina as she guides your

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 Angelena Stevens directly at astevens@newtimesslo.com.

10 • Sun • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

little artist through a variety of fun and exciting acrylic painting projects.

Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. through Sept. 23 $30. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free.

(805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/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 watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. $35 per class. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

CALL FOR ARTISTS SLO Gallery is now organizing small group exhibits for our central viewing area. One of the displayed artists will be a co-op member. The others can be local or visiting artists.

Drop by the SLO Gallery to sign up and see which of our artists on display you may be interested in doing a group show with. Fridays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, SLOgallery.com.

DECORATIVE PLATTER: ANIMALS! Sculpt and glaze your own pet-themed decorative clay platter in this threesession course. Open to all ages and experience levels, bring pet photos and create! Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $85. app.acuityscheduling.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INDEX Arts...................................... 10 Culture & Lifestyle ........... 11 Food & Drink ......................15 Music ...................................15

THE FATHER: A TRAGIC FARCE Awardwinning and darkly funny, The Father immerses audiences in an 80-year-old man’s disorienting struggle as dementia slowly erodes his grip on reality. Fridays, 7-9 p.m., Saturdays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m., Sundays, 2-4 p.m. and Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. through Sept. 10 $28-$48. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/shows/the-father/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

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

IMPROV EXTRAVAGANZA AT THE BUNKER SLO Get ready for a whirlwind of wit, chaos, and unscripted brilliance at Improv Extravaganza—the ultimate showcase of indie improv talent! Aug. 27, 6:15-8 p.m. $12.56. my805tix.com.

SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo.

MAGICANS CLUB This is a non-profit club where magicians from the local areas meet, exchange, share magic ideas, and showoff. Last Monday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Free. (805) 720-1164. SLO Elks Club, 222 Elks Lane, San Luis Obispo.

MARCIE BEGLEITER AT SLOMA See Marcie Begleiter’s solo exhibition “Chimera: the Future of Nature” at SLOMA. Animation, photography and a large nature diorama. Mondays, ThursdaysSundays. through Oct. 17 Free. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo, (310) 920-1656, sloma.org/exhibition/marcie-begleiter/.

NEUROGRAPHIC ART WORKSHOP WITH THE JUNKGIRLS Come learn this accessible practice that requires no artistic skill, focusing on the process of creation rather than the final result.

Aug. 29, 2-4:30 p.m. $65. (805) 439-0123. junkgirls.com. JunkGirls, 870 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo.

NOT FOR SALE: BARTER EXCHANGE This is your chance to negotiate a sweet trade for art by a collection of established

California artists! Intrigued? Come find out! Mondays, Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Aug. 28 Free. (805) 546-3201. cuesta.edu/about/calendars/index.html? trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventi d%3D1407112356. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

PAINT PRE-MADE POTTERY Paint premade pottery at our studio. Choose a piece, get creative, and make family memories. Reserve your spot online today and enjoy some fun for all ages! MondaysSaturdays anamcre.com/. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., 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.

SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASSES Join our family pottery class! Learn to throw on the wheel or build by hand. All ages are welcome. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $45. 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.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

“PEACEFUL HARBOR” : A GROUP PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW Nine gallery photographers explore Central Coast waterscapes and sunsets in “Peaceful Harbor,” a group show capturing the ocean’s calm and the wildlife along its shoreline. Through Aug. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (808) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

ARTS continued page 11

Hot Stuff

AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 6, 2026

ARTS from page 10 ALCOHOL INK 101 Complete instructional workshop with all materials supplied, pre registration is required. Leard from award winning artist Judy Maynard in her studio.

First Sunday of every month, 1-4 p.m. through Dec. 2 $95. (805) 286-8380. artwithjudyann.com. Art With Judy Ann Studio Gallery, 2024 Main Street, Cambria.

ART IN THE PARK: MORRO BAY Visitors can expect a mix of painting, photography, ceramics, sculpture, textiles, jewelry, and more, along with a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Morro Bay. Sept. 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sept. 6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org/artinthepark. Morro Bay City Park, Corner of Morro Bay Blvd. and Harbor St., Morro Bay. CELEBRATE COSTA GALLERY’S 6TH ANNIVERSARY WITH THREE EXHIBITS Visit the 6th anniversary and artist reception, with musician Jill Knight and refreshments. View three new exhibits until Sept. 6, titled “Legends,” “Body,” and “Explosive.” Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.4 p.m. through Sept. 6 Free. (559) 7999632. facebook.com/events/s/celebratecosta-gallerys-6th-a/2190641115065150/.

Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

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

FEATURED ARTIST VIRGINIA MACK Watercolorist Virginia Mack paints the Central Coast’s shifting light and color, drawing on decades of kayaking the bay and teaching studio art in the region.

Through Aug. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (808) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com.

Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary.

Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay. IN THE SHADOW EXHIBIT Artists have woven together the visual and emotional richness of shadow, from intimate and introspective studies to bold, dramatic compositions that captivate and unsettle.

Through Sept. 14, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org.

O CL

Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay. MORRO BAY COMEDY NIGHT WITH THE TOMMY LAMA Morro Bay’s Nauti Anchor Bar presents comedian The Tommy Lama live and in-person! Tommy is a classic character comic with an edgy, contemporary energy. Aug. 28, 7:30-8:30 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Nauti Anchor Bar, 2940 Main Street, 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.

THE TAMING Enjoy a staged reading of Lauren Gunderson comedy, directed

by Jean Miller. A beauty queen’s plan to rewrite the constitution with a conservative and a liberal contestant.

Sept. 4, 7 p.m., Sept. 5, 7 p.m. and Sept.

6, 3 p.m. $20. (805) 776-3287. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay, bytheseaproductions.org.

THE REBOOT: STORYTELLING REIMAGINED Curated showcase of true personal stories about deception, assumptions and shifts in perception, along with a open-mic for audience 99-second bits around the theme. Aug. 28, 7-9:15 p.m. Free. facebook.com/ the.reboot4u. Red Barn at Los Osos Community Park, 2180 Palisades Ave., Los Osos.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750.

THE ART OF CONVERSATION Whether you’re meeting someone for the first time, catching up with an old friend, or talking with a potential partner, conversation shapes every relationship in your life. The ability to create meaningful conversation opens the door to deeper friendships, stronger communities, new opportunities, and a richer social life. Aug. 29, 5-7 p.m. $23.27. my805tix.com. Oak Folk Studio, 4850 South Bradley Road, Suite B, Santa Maria, (805) 270-3278.

BRUNCH AND BROWSE Shop and explore, while supporting amazing local talent. Aug. 29, 10 a.m.-noon Free. (805)

SING AUG.

1

925-0951 ext 1635. cityofsantamaria.org/.

California Myotis bats. Fridays, Saturdays.

Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., through Sept. 6. Free. (805) 693-0691.

Santa Maria. clnaturecenter.org. Neal Taylor Nature CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open Center, 2265 Highway 154, Santa Barbara. to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First SPEAKER SERIES SPONSORED BY THE FRIENDS OF THE BUELLTON Thursday of every month, 6:30 p.m. Free.

LIBRARY: JAMES BIER, DIRECTOR OF (805) 934-3948. Home Motors, THE CHUMASH MUSEUM & CULTURAL 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria.

CENTER Building a Living Museum: CHEEHOO FOUNDATION LUAU PARTY Sept. 6, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $17.91. my805tix.com. The Journey of the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center. Aug. 28, The Stockyard, 241 S Broadway St, Orcutt.

7-8 p.m. sites.google.com/view/foblFEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, buellton/events. Buellton Library, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt. 202 Dairyland Rd, Buellton, org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.

(805) 688-3115.

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

Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and LOMPOC ART WALK Lompoc transforms Union Ave., Orcutt.

MUSIC into a celebration and showcase of local artists during this monthly event, FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 which features live music, art, exciting Visit the Youth Services Desk on the exhibitions, performances, and a variety first Sunday of each month to receive FLAVOR/EATS of unique vendors. First Thursday of every a coupon for a free book of your choice month, 5-8 p.m. Old Town Lompoc, from the Library Bookstore. For ages H and I St., Lompoc.

0-17. First Sunday of every month Free.

INFO (805) 925-0994.

THE VILLAGE cityofsantamaria.

TREASURE org/services/ CHEST This CALENDAR departments/ event is for the library. Santa whole family.

Maria Public There will Library, 421 S. Send event information to calendar@ OPINION be vendors McClelland St., santamariasun.com. selling their Santa Maria. wears, music, GROUP WALKS NEWS facepainting, AND HIKES Check website for the and some kind of food booth. Come remainder of this year’s group hike dates out and spend part of your Saturday and private hike offerings. ongoing (805) supporting local vendors.

First Saturday STROKES 343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupeof every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free.

Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Vandenberg Village Community Services Guadalupe.

District Office, 3745 Constellation Road, ARTS Lompoc, (805) 291-6370.

REGROW YOUR MITOCHONDRIA Hear Dr. Ted, a local Natural Path, talk about SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y regrowing your Mitochondria naturally.

2ND FREE LEGAL CLINIC REGISTRATION There will be free, qualified samples (LEGAL TEAM: FREDERICK & TINDULA available. Aug. 30, 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) LAW FIRM) Part of our Health Wellness 268-3656. IHOP, 202 Nicholson ave., and You Program, seniors 50 years and Santa Maria. older can call the number provided after SANTA MARIA CAMERA CLUB MEETING 2 p.m., leave a message for Dave, and The Santa Maria Camera Club is a mention the free legal clinic. Mondayswelcoming community of photographers Fridays, 2-7 p.m. through Sept. 28 Free. who share a passion for creating and (805) 929-1615. nipomoseniorcenter.org/. enjoying great images. Join us soon! First Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St., Wednesday of every month, 7 a.m.-8:30 Nipomo. p.m. through Aug. 5 (805) 478-3057. santamariacameraclub.org. Merrill BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS Gardens, 1350 N. Suey Rd., Santa Maria.

AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y included. ongoing Starts at $70. (805) 835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar GOING BATTY AT THE NATURE CENTER Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Going Batty consists of weekly talks and observation of hundreds of native Pismo Beach.

Spread the word!

THE GREAT AMERICAN

(including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic).

BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org.

6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes.

Grover Beach Community Center, (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., EPIC DJ TRIVIA Don’t miss DJ Trivia.

Grover Beach.

It’s free to play, and prizes for the top BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your three teams will be awarded. Bring your potential through individualized meditation family and friends! Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. instruction with an experienced teacher Free. Grover Station Grill, 170 W Grand via Zoom. This class is for those who wish Ave #101, Grover Beach, (805) 489-3030, to begin a practice or seek to deepen EpicDJTrivia.com. an existing one. Flexible days and times.

LA CONVERSACIÓN Join La Conversación, Certified with IMTA. Email or text for a group for practicing spoken Spanish. information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30There is no homework or lessons, just 6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 905-9274. conversation. Thursdays, 9-11:30 a.m. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, Free. Greenhouse Coffee Company, Arroyo Grande.

1064 E Grand Av, Arroyo Grande, (805) BIG DITCH MARKET Enjoy fantastic 825-1345. La Conversación is a group for homemade items from local vendors, practicing Spanish. There’s no homework amazing food, and live music! First Friday or lessons, just conversation. Beginners of every month, 4-8 p.m. through Oct. 2. to native speakers, all levels are welcome!

Free. (714) 390-9142. arroyogrande.org.

Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. (805) Historic Village of Arroyo Grande, Branch 748-9123. Coffee Bean, 354 Five Cities Dr., and Short St., Arroyo Grande.

Pismo Beach.

BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD CLASS Do something good for yourself SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA and stay fit for outdoor sports, while ZOOM) A pro-recovery group offering enhancing flexibility, strengthening space to those seeking peer support, all your core to prevent lower back issues, stages of ED recovery. We understand improving your posture through yoga, recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 support is crucial. Share, listen, and be a.m. Free. (970) 710-1412. Avila Beach part of a community building up each Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., other. First Wednesday of every month, Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.

7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY MAKERS MARKET: STONE SOUP Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks Discovery Center is having a Makers including pathways maintenance, litter Market, where kids sell what they have patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, created. Shop food, drinks, arts, and crafts. irrigation system expansion/repairs, Aug. 30, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 698-7351. pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should Exploration Discovery Center, bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, 867 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach. and tools related to the above activities.

First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon MEDICARE MADE SIMPLE Our popular Empowerment Series is for older adults or Free. (805) 710-3073. Nipomo Native Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo. their families seeking more knowledge to get equipped and be empowered as they DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For or their loved ones age. Sept. 2, 10-11:30 the early riser or commuter, every a.m. Free. my805tix.com. Hilton Garden Inn, weekday morning. Maintain or improve 601 James Way, Pismo Beach. concentration, balance, and flexibility.

MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class FOR ADULTS Experience dance from with more practices. Led by certified continents around the earth, including Awareness Through Movement teacher.

Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) context and history of cultures of the 280-5800. margotschaal.com/qigong. world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 dropOnline, See website, Arroyo Grande. in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739.

DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE grover.org. Grover Beach Community FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 12

UP NEXT!

AUG. 7 - SEP 19 Professional Live Theatre!

Fun for ages 5 to 105!

1863 HWY 1 ~ OCEANO, CA 3 miles south of Pismo Beach

www.AmericanMelodrama.com (805) 489-2499

SHOW TIMES

Final 4 Shows

Wednesday - Friday: 7pm Saturday: 2pm to 7pm Sunday: 6pm CLOSED: Monday & Tuesday

In 1938 at station WBFR, a live radio broadcast faces chaos with picketing musicians, a dwindling crew, and the rumored death of the leading lady, whose body has disappeared. The remaining staff must continue with various programs while solving the mystery all while staying on the air!!

www.santamariasun.com • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • Sun • 11

Hot Stuff

AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 6, 2026 PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM PAZDERKA

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 11 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.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. and Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $15 per class or $60 for five-class card. (805) 440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.

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 Crows End Retreat outdoor class, which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email for location and to reserve a spot.

Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227.

Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

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, Arroyo Grande.

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS Facility advertised as open and safe.

Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190.

(805) 481-6399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

30-DAY BREATH AND RESET JOURNEY FOR WOMEN Wired at night, drained all day? Reset your body in 30 days. Focus on breath practices to calm stress, sleep deeply, and restore lasting energy.

Registration is required. Tuesdays, 6:307:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody.com. Live Webinar, online, SLO County.

ASTRONOMY NIGHT AND STARGAZING Explore the night sky with telescopes and guided viewing hosted by the Central Coast Astronomy Society. Sept. 5, 7-9 p.m. $10. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd, San Luis Obispo.

TRACES OF TIME

An Artist Talk with Tom Pazderka will be held at the Ann Foxworthy Gallery in Santa Maria on Wednesday, Sept. 2, from 4 to 7 p.m. View All That Remains, a collection of artwork by Pazderka that blends themes of memory, place, and time. The event will be held in the Academic Resource Center in Building L. More details can be found at hancockcollege.edu.

—A.S. BOARD GAME NIGHT AT CAPTAIN NEMO GAMES Game night is on! Join us Tuesdays at 5 p.m. at Captain Nemo Games for fun, friendly board gaming.

All skill levels welcome! Tuesdays, 5-9 p.m.

Free. (805) 544-6366. facebook.com/ events/2047427899121921/204742794912 1916?acontext=%7B%22event_action_ history%22%3A[]%7D. Captain Nemo Games, 565 Higuera Street, 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.

CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:3011:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo.

DOING SOMETHING ABOUT IT BBQ AND ESTATE SALE END CHILD EXPLOITATION Gift bags, hundreds of prizes for kids activities while parents listen to law enforcement from front lines of rescues.

Food, fun, family, love, and comrade. Aug. 29, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $15. (805) 769-5675. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

FOUNDER’S Join founder Eve Vigil for a behind-the-scenes garden tour highlighting history, blooms, unique plants, and water-wise tips—plus plenty of time for questions and connection.

First Wednesday of every month $10.

(805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd, San Luis Obispo.

FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and importance to the development of this area. Tours are led by docents and meet in

front of the church Sundays, 2:30 p.m. and Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15 p.m. Free. (805) 550-7713. missionslodocents.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

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

Captain Nemo Games, 565 Higuera Street, 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. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org.

San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 respectful dialogue to increase awareness Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo. and help us live more fully. First Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 544GATHER ON THE GREEN AT CHAMISAL 2266. hospiceslo.org/services/death-cafe.

VINEYARDS Gather on the Green brings Hospice SLO County, 1305 Marsh Street, live local music, food vendors, lawn San Luis Obispo. games, and Chamisal wines to the Edna Valley. No reservations are required, REPLACING A LAWN WITH CALIFORNIA there is communal seating. First Friday of NATIVE PLANTS Hear step-by-step every month, 5-7 p.m. through Oct. 2 Free. instructions for replacing a lawn, (805) 541-9463. chamisalvineyards.com. including native plant recommendations.

Chamisal Vineyards, 7525 Orcutt Road, There is an optional 9:30 a.m. tour of the San Luis Obispo. local wholesale nursery to see possible options. More details are on the website.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT Aug. 29, 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 459-2103.

GROUP The Healing Depression Support cnpsslo.org. San Luis Obispo Library Group is a safe place to share with others Community Room, 995 Palm Street, who are suffering from or have recovered San Luis Obispo. from the pain of depression. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Jan. 11 Free. (805) 528-3194. A SERENITY SOUND JOURNEY AT LA safe place to share feelings of depression LOMITA RANCH Within the pavilion, with those who suffer and those who have where the exceptional acoustics allow recovered to a full, healthy outlook on life. sound to become something felt as much Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. as heard, each tone radiates, layering and Hope House Wellness Center, lingering until it washes over and through 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. you in quiet waves. Let your breath merge with the sounds to take you on a journey INTERMEDIATE AND BEGINNING within. Sept. 1, 6-7:15 p.m. $20-$30.

BIRDING WORKSHOP AND GUIDED my805tix.com. La Lomita Ranch, WALK Join birding experts Robbie Revel 1985 La Lomita Way, San Luis Obispo. and Karen Watts for an engaging session designed to sharpen your birdwatching THE SLO FLOWER COLLECTIVE WEEKLY skills as we get ready for fall! Sept. 5, FLOWER MARKET Enjoy an amazing 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $20. (805) 541-1400. weekly fresh flower market, open to slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical the public. Enjoy the historic gardens Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., with local blooms from nine local flower San Luis Obispo. farmers. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Nov. 5 Free. sloflowercollective.

LEARN BEFORE YOU LEAP: REALITIES com. Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, 1185 OF STARTING A NONPROFIT Learn Pacific St., San Luis Obispo. what’s involved in forming and maintaining a nonprofit and whether SLO MOTION TOASTMASTERS CLUB there’s a better way to serve your MEETINGS Come join us in person passion. Admission is free for spokes or online to improve your speaking members. Aug. 27, 10:30 a.m.-noon and leadership skills in a positive and $45. (805) 547-2244. SLO Rep/ACT fun environment! Mondays, 12-1 p.m.

Headquarters, 3533 Empleo Street, Free. slomotion.toastmastersclubs.

San Luis Obispo. org/. Caltrans Midway Building “Sand” Conference Room, 2885 South Higuera LUNCHTIME IN THE GARDEN UC Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 835-6580.

Master Gardeners of SLO County extend an invitation to the public to visit our SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB demonstration garden. See what’s in MEETINGS Want to improve speaking bloom and learn something new. First and leadership skills in a supportive and Wednesday of every month, 11:30 a.m.positive environment? During COVID, we 1:30 p.m. through Sept. 2 Free. (805) are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a 781-5939. ucanr.edu. Garden of the Seven meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m.

Sisters Demonstration Garden, Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org.

2156 Sierra Way, San Luis Obispo.

Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID. MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE Stretch SLO OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAY Head into yourself under the beautiful oaks and to this free event with naloxone (Narcan) fresh air of this idyllic country setting. . Enjoy a resource fair, presentations, Suitable for all levels, these classes activities, and food for purchase. Bring emphasize the gentler side of yoga and photos and art to share. Aug. 29, 12-3 p.m. adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, Free. sloendoverdose.org/. Mitchell Park, 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for five-class 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo. card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561.

SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY The SLO balancedlivingayurveda.com. Tiber Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets at the Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, SLO Senior Center on the first and third San Luis Obispo.

Tuesday of each month. Visitors are MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION welcome. First Tuesday of every month, (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted 1-3 p.m. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa

by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 540-9484, Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, slocity.org/seniors.

784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY (805) 270-3346.

COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group MONTHLY DEATH CAFE (EVERY FIRST or retirees that get together just for the TUESDAY AT 11 A.M.) Join this relaxed, fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs group-directed conversation about death CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 14 and dying with no agenda—just open,

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Serving Your Employment Law Needs Throughout California www.santamariasun.com • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • Sun • 13

Hot Stuff

AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 6, 2026 PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DUNES CENTER

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 12 which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:309:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

SLO SKIERS MONTHLY MEETING SLO Skiers, a local, non-profit, year-round sports and social club for adults has monthly meetings. A social hour is at 5:30 p.m. with food and drinks.

Annual memberships are $65. First Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. through Jan. 5 Free. sloskiers.org. Milestone Tavern, 972 Foothill Blvd., San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-4316.

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.

THAT’S SO DRAG: A LATE NIGHT DANCE PARTY That’s So Drag is bringing the heat, the hair, and the high-energy vibes you’ve been waiting for. Make sure you’re ready to dance and see some amazing performannces from our hosts Nala Diamond, Juicy C.W., and more of San Luis Obispo’s favorite Queens. Sept. 5, 8-11:55 p.m. $12.56. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337.

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.

YOUR CITY, YOUR VOICE: GIVING PUBLIC COMMENT THAT COUNTS This event will help community members understand how to access public meeting information, practice giving public comment, stay informed, and feel more confident participating. Aug. 27, 5:30-8 p.m. (805) 781-7073. slocity.org. San Luis Obispo City Hall, 990 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

33RD ANNUAL CUHS PINEDORADO 5K FUN RUN Join this family friendly fun run. Proceeds will support the CUHS Girls’ Soccer and Cross Country Teams. Race follows parade route.

Sept. 5, 7-9 a.m. $30. (805) 801-1132. coastusd.org. Coast Union High School, 2950 Santa Rosa Creek Rd., Cambria.

BREATH CONNECTION: WHEN YOUR MIND WON’T SLOW DOWN Join this 90-minute beach experience for women with practical breath tools, gentle movement, and oceaninspired practices to slow down, reconnect, and find more balance. Aug. 29, 10:30 a.m.noon $15. (805) 235-7978. Tami Cruz-Charvet, Morro Strand Beach, Morro Bay, charvetgratefulbody.com.

BREATHE AND STRETCH One must be able to get down onto the floor and back up again, with ease, in order to participate in this 55-minute session. It’s specifically designed to enhance mobility and strength. Please bring a mat and some water. Mondays, 9-10 a.m. $10 per session.

(415) 516-5214. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

CENTRAL COAST SLIM DOWN Take control of food without suffering. Learn a step-by-step process to take control of overeating, cravings, and feel peace with food. Build the habits, mindset, and your unique path with results that stick. Hosted byTami Cruz (Certified Health/ Life Coach) and Dana Charvet (Coach/Fitness Trainer). ongoing Call for pricing info. (805) 235-7978. gratefulbodyhealthcoaching.com.

Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. CENTRAL COAST UECHI-RYU KARATE-DO Uechi-Ryu Karate-do is a traditional form of karate originating from Okinawa, Japan.

Focus is on fitness, flexibility, and self-defense with emphasis on self -growth, humility, and respect. Open to ages 13 to adult. Beginners and experienced welcome. Instructor with 50 years experience. For info, call 805-215-8806.

Tuesdays, Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278, morro-bay.ca.us.

CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s 14 • Sun • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

DOCENT-LED

A docent-led hike to Black Lake in Arroyo Grande in collaboration with The Land Conservancy will take place on Saturday, Aug. 29, from 9 a.m. to noon. Explore the local wildlife and rare plant species of the Black Lake Ecological Area, which The Land Conservancy has owned and restored since 2000. Event registration is $5 for Dunes Center members and $10 for nonmembers. Additional information can be found at dunescenter.org.

—A.S. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

(805) 772-2840, sttimothymorrobay.org/.

MORRO BAY MIXED MARTIAL ARTS CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS MEETING Disciplines include advanced athletic Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve performance fitness training, Thai kickboxing, Step recovery program for anyone who desires and more. Beginners to advanced students to have healthy and loving relationships with welcome. Day and evening classes offered. themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid Mondays-Saturdays, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Call for more (both in person and on Zoom). For information, info. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m.

Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, OPEN FLOW: DANCE AND MOVEMENT A (805) 927-1654. community of movers and shakers who come together to express themselves through EMBODIED YOGA ON THE CENTRAL COAST dance and movement. Inspired by a variety Join this semi-private, all levels nourishing of conscious movement modalities, Open vinasya inspired asana (yoga) practice. Join us Flow is led by SilviaMUSIC Suarez and Matt Garrity, outdoors for a nourishing and grounding yoga embodiment teachers who share a passion practice. The class is breath centered to help for integration through movement exploration. you connect to your pranic life force. This is a Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. $10 (general), $5 complete class with meditation, connection FLAVOR/EATS (ages 55 and older). SilviaAthaSomatics.org. to your energy centers, vital movement and a nourishing cool down. Sept. 5, 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, INFO Morro Bay, 772-6278.

Free. my805tix.com. Aurora Sacred Events, 21 24th St, Cayucos.

SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP ENJOY AXE Have a topic, book, THROWING Enjoy the CALENDAR or article you wish to art of axe throwing discuss with interested in a safe and fun and interesting people? environment. Kids Send event information to calendar@ OPINION Join this weekly ages 10 and older santamariasun.com. meeting to discuss it, are welcome with an or simply contribute adult. No personal axes NEWSyour experiences and please. Fridays, 11:30 knowledge. Contact Mark Plater for instructions a.m.-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. $20. on entering the Chapel area. Wednesdays, 10 (805) 528-4880. baysidemartialarts.com. a.m.-noon (805) 528-7111.

Coalesce Garden Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

STROKES Chapel, 845 Main St., Morro Bay. LOS OSOS SUNDAY MEDITATION CLASS STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi gong Sitting with a supportive group strengthens ARTS offers great anti-aging benefits, providing a one’s meditation practice. Join us for a comprehensive system for improving physical, weekly talk on topics related to meditation mental and emotional health. Its roots date back and consciousness plus silent and guided thousands of years in China. Learn with certified meditation. Facilitated by Devin Wallace. instructor Devin Wallace. Call first. Thursdays, Beginners welcome. Email devinwalla@gmail.

10-11 a.m. $10. (805) 709-2227. Hardie Park, Ash com for more information. Sundays, 10:15 a.m.Ave. and B St., Cayucos. Qi gong offers great 11:15 p.m. By donation. (805) 709-2227. anti-aging benefits, providing a comprehensive inner-workings.com. Central Coast Body system for improving physical and mental Therapy Center, 2005 9th St., Los Osos.

MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS DISCUSSION health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin GROUP A group of metaphysically minded Wallace. Call first for info and exact location. individuals that have been meeting for many Fridays, 9-10 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227. inneryears now in the Coalesce Chapel. Club workings.com. Los Osos, Townwide, Los Osos. offers a supportive metaphysical based STRETCH, BREATHE, AND BALANCE Ideal community. Members discuss a different topic for seniors, and open to everyone. Instructor each week. All are welcome to join. Fridays, Randal Bodlak takes you through specific 12:30-1:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10-$15.

Spread the word!

moves to promote mobility, internal strength, and stability. Mondays, 9-10 a.m. $10 per session. (805) 528-4880. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

TAI CHI AND QI GONG: ZEN IN MOTION Small group classes with 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the Year. Call for time and days. Learn the Shaolin Water Style and 5 Animals Qi Gong. Beginners welcomed. Mondays, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call for price details. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. WATERFRONT MARKET MORRO BAY The Waterfront Market returns for its 9th summer season in Morro Bay. This open-air market features over 30 local vendors from SLO County. Through Sept. 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 402-9437. facebook.com/waterfrontmarketmorrobayca.

Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay. WEEKLY QIGONG PRACTICE AT FITNESSWORKS MORRO BAY Calm your mind and nourish your joints with a weekly Qigong practice led by Mike Raynor of Tai Chi Rejuvenation. The practice is rooted in Qigong fundamentals, and standing and moving meditations. Forms include Eight Brocades, Five Elements, Shibashi 18, and Tai Chi 24. Visit the Fitness Works website for current prices.

Saturdays, 10:45-11:45 a.m. and Thursdays, 12:151 p.m. (805) 772-7466. fitnessworksmb.com.

FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay. YOGA ANIMALS YOGA CLASS FOR CHILDREN Enjoy a Yoga Animals Children’s Yoga Class and Storytime for ages three to six. Space is limited.

RSVP at the email provided. Aug. 29, 10-11 a.m.

Free. (805) 440-8597. allonefamilyyoga.com.

Morro Bay Public Library - Community Room, 625 Harbor Street, Morro Bay. YOGA PLUS A hybrid of yoga and “stretching” techniques that yield a body that moves and feels amazing. Mondays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $10 per session. (415) 516-5214.

Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

ZEN IN MOTION Learn the Shaolin Water Style and other deep breathing and moving meditation techniques with the 2019 Taijiquan Instructor of the Year. Beginners Welcome.

Instructor Certification Courses available.

Mondays, Wednesdays Call for details. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

HOT STUFF continued page 15

Hot Stuff

AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 6, 2026 PHOTO COURTESY OF OPOLO VINEYARDS

24th Annual All Ford Car Show and Swap Meet

Benefits Allan Hancock College Industrial Technology and Other Local & National Scholarships

Saturday September 12, 2026 Car Show • 9 am-3 pm | Swap Meet 7 am

AWARDS • AHC OPPORTUNITY DRAWING • MUSIC • Non-Food Vendors Welcome!

BEHIND THE WINE

Enjoy an evening at Cambria Pines Lodge and welcome Opolo Vineyards for a Winemaker’s Dinner event in the outdoor Pavilion Garden on Sunday, Aug. 30, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Taste a five-course dinner paired with Opolo Vineyards wines, guided by a winery expert who will share tasting notes and stories behind each pour. Tickets are $130 per person and can be purchased at cambriapineslodge.com.

—A.S.

HOT STUFF from page 14

FOOD & DRINK SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

BAR TAKEOVER THURSDAYS Join us Thursdays to meet and chat with the winemaker of the flight we’re featuring that week. Thursdays, 4-7:30 p.m. $15-$30. (805) 623-5129. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, stellerscellar.com.

BEER YOGA AT NAUGHTY OAK Jenn’s Beer Yoga is always a great way to start your day! @getzen_w_jenn will lead you through the most fun you’ll ever have at yoga. All levels are welcome. Aug. 30, 11 a.m.-noon $25.78. my805tix.com. Naughty Oak Brewing Co., 165 S. Broadway St., suite 102, Orcutt.

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

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE INN Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

LA DOLCE VITA: SOURDOUGH PASTA MAKING WITH URBAN HOMESTEADINGS Join us for a fun night! Sign up before Aug. 14 with a friend and save $30! Message us for more info! Aug. 29, noon (805) 865-6318. urbanhomesteadings.com. Los Alamos Coffee & Tea, 315 Bell Street, Los Alamos.

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

SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free.

(805) 937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com.

Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

SOURDOUGH AT GROWING GROUNDS Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

FARM Urban Homesteadings, your local female veteran owned SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y sourdough specialty shop is at GrowingGroundsFarm.org. Veterans TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a and first responders get a free cookie! hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo.

Thursdays, 12-3 p.m. Free. (805) 865-6318.

Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to UrbanHomesteadings.com. the first and second place teams. Kitchen Growing Grounds Farm, 820 W. Foster Rd., is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, Santa Maria. cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. (805) 295-6171.

Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

Brewing Company, 779 Price St., THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER Pismo Beach.

Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, MORRO BAY MAIN STREET FARMERS 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

MUSICMARKET Get fresh and veggies, fruit, WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check baked goods, sweets, and handmade Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the artisan crafts. Come have some fun with complete list of classes, for various ages.FLAVOR/EATS your local farmers and artisans and ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/ enjoy delicious eats while enjoying the orcutt. Wine and Design, fresh breeze of Morro Bay. Saturdays, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.

INFO 2:30-5:30 p.m. Varies. (805) 824-7383. morrobayfarmersmarket.com. Morro Bay Main Street Farmers Market, Main Street and Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay. CALENDAR WINEMAKER’S DINNER FEATURING OPOLO VINEYARDS Join for an unforgettable evening at Cambria Pines Send event information to calendar@ OPINION Lodge as we welcome Opolo Vineyards santamariasun.com. for a signature Winemaker’s Dinner NEWSin our outdoor Pavilion Garden. Aug. 30, 5:30-8 p.m. $130. (805) 927-4200.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y cambriapineslodge.com. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.

PASO WINE TASTING TOUR: FRESNO STROKES Paso Wine is heading back to Fresno!

WOOD-FIRED PIZZA NIGHTS AT Paso Robles winery personalities are CAMBRIA PINES LODGE Join us every coming out of the cellars, vineyards, and ARTS Friday for an unforgettable evening of fun, tasting rooms to the Fresno area. Sept. 3, food, and festivities at the Pizza Nook at 5:30-8 p.m. $75. pasowine.com. Clovis Cambria Pines Lodge! Fridays, 5-9 p.m.

Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St., through Sept. 25 Free. (805) 927-4200.

Clovis, (805) 239-8463. cambriapineslodge.com. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.

SOURDOUGH AT BUELLTON FARMER’S MARKET Shop from Urban Homesteadings, the female, veteran-owned sourdough specialty shop, at Buellton Farmer’s Market.

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS Mondays, 3-7 p.m. Free. (805) 865-6318.

UrbanHomesteadings.com. Avenue of HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live Flags, Avenue of Flags, Buellton. music at the winery most Friday evenings.

Check site for concert schedule. Fridays LOMPOC/VANDENBERG presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head (805) 937-8110.

Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Company every Tuesday night. Teams Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 bragging rights. Kekas will be serving p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages.

Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 819-0723.

MUSIC continued page 17 coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast

ENTRY APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE AT: www.santamariamodelaclub.com

the Orcutt Union Plaza Old Town Orcutt at 201 S. Broadway, Orcutt, CA 93455 Contact Jay McCord (805) 598-8133 • Curt Warner (805) 478-1231 CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS

OLD TOWN MARKET

˜°˛˝°˙ˆ°ˇ˘˜

Spread the word!

MUSIC

www.santamariasun.com • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • Sun • 15

The Charities with Mestizo Beat

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

SLO Brew Rock, SLO

By the Sea Productions, Morro Bay

Live at the Lighthouse Concert Series

Pops by the Sea: Symphony Remix

&

13th Annual Brew at the Zoo

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

Avila Beach Golf Course

Central Coast Zoo, Atascadero

Improv Extravaganza

Bight Presents: One Ocean Film Festival

Talie & The Troublemakers

Morro Bay Comedy Night w/Tommy Lama

THURSDAY, AUGUST 27 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28 The Pour House, Paso Robles

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28 The Nauti Anchor, Morro Bay

Nada Rasta Live

Beer Yoga at Naughty Oak

Rockin’ the Ranch: Spanky Paul Band

NOW - FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 Atascadero Printery Foundation

NOW - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

THURSDAY, AUGUST 27 The Bunker, SLO

Experiencia Bamboo: Intimate Fine Dining

Texas Voodoo: Tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughn & Hendrix SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 The Stockyard, Orcutt

The Art of Conversation

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 Oak Folk Studio, Santa Maria

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 The Pour House, Paso Robles

SUNDAY, AUGUST 30 Naughty Oak Brewing Co, Orcutt

SUNDAY, AUGUST 30 Filipponi Ranch, SLO

Plant Bingo with Peaceful Plants

Smells Like Nirvana-Tribute to Nirvana w/Dead Original SUNDAY, AUGUST 30 SLO Brew Rock, SLO

Serenity Sound Journey

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 La Lomita Ranch, SLO

GS3 Events Presents Ingested

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

Rehash w/Special Guest Makeout Reef

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 SLO Brew Rock, SLO

Brass Mash First Friday

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 SLO Brew Rock, SLO

First Fridays Comedy in Atascadero

That’s So Drag: A Late Night Dance Party

CheeHoo Foundation Luau Party

Rockin’ the Ranch: Jack Milstead Band

Otter 501 Film Screening

2026 Central Coast Cooking Show

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 Paso Bamboo, Paso Robles

SUNDAY, AUGUST 30 McPrice Myers, Paso Robles

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Decades HiFi Lounge, Atascadero

Hail The Sun - A Lot Like Birds Blight Town - Murals TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 The Rock, SLO

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

The Elder Quest: Choosing Conscious Aging THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Odd Fellows Hall, SLO

16 • Sun • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 The Stockyard, Orcutt

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Filipponi Ranch, SLO

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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Idler’s Home, Paso Robles

Peaceful Plants PLANT BINGO Building a Better SLO

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 The Penny, SLO

Plant Bingo with Peaceful Plants

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Decades HiFi Lounge, Atascadero

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Tent City Limits - Concerts at The Printery

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Hot Stuff MUSIC from page 15 LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR Various local musicians rotate each Friday.

Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 623-5129, stellerscellar.com.

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

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

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/lessons.html.

Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details.

Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m.

(805) 478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.

STOCKYARD SUMMER AND FALL CONCERT SERIES FEATURING STEPHEN STYLES BAND Sept. 5, 1 p.m.

Free. my805tix.com. The Stockyard, 241 S Broadway St, Orcutt.

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

TEXAS VOODOO: TRIBUTE TO STEVIE RAY VAUGHN AND JIMI HENDRIX For one night only see the incredible Texas Voodoo, a tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughn and Jimi Hendrix live at the Stockyard!

Aug. 29, 1 p.m. $23.27. my805tix.com. The Stockyard, 241 S Broadway St, Orcutt.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

THE CAVERNS PRESENT: LED ZEPPELIN II Experience the raw power of Led Zeppelin II performed live from start to finish by The Caverns’. Aug. 29, 7:30-10 p.m. $40. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest.org. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES AT REFUGIO RANCH VINEYARDS TASTING The Refugio Ranch Tasting Room features live music every weekend this summer.

Join us to enjoy the atmosphere and our seasonal summer menu. Through Aug. 30 (805) 697-5289. refugioranch.com/events.

Refugio Ranch Tasting Room, 2990 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

KARAOKE AT COLD COAST BREWING CO. Pick out a song, bring your friends, and get ready to perform. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. COLD Coast Brewing Company,

AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 6, 2026 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 819-0723, coldcoastbrewing.com.

YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc.

nights filled with the vibrant energy of our all-horn band. Join the festivities and immerse yourself in the unique fusion of your favorite rock and pop songs. It’s a musical journey that promises to be unforgettable, so make sure to wear sensible shoes for the dance-worthy beats.

Sept. 4, 6-10 p.m. $25.41. my805tix.com.

Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.

INGESTED LIVE Sept. 2, 6-10:30 p.m.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y $28.62. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, BLONDE AMBITION: THE MADONNA TRIBUTE Don’t miss Blonde Ambition: The San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974.

Madonna Tribute at the Stone Soup Music ROCKIN’ THE RANCH: JACK MILSTEAD Festival & Street Fair in Grover Beach.

BAND Sept. 6, 1-4 p.m. $7.20. my805tix.

Aug. 29, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Free. (805) 489com. Filipponi Ranch, 1850 Calle Joaquin, 9444. clarkcenter.org/. Ramona Garden San Luis Obispo.

Park, 933 W. Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.

ROCKIN’ THE RANCH: SPANKY PAUL KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly BAND Aug. 30, 1-4 p.m. $7.20. my805tix. event with barbecue offerings and more. com. Filipponi Ranch, 1850 Calle Joaquin, Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, San Luis Obispo.

108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, (805) 925-3500.

SAXOPHONE SUMMIT: CELEBRATING THE LOUNGE AT BESO An upscale afterCHARLIE PARKER Join us for the hours nightclub experience. With limited inaugural concert of the Central Coast capacity and a dress code. For ages 21 Saxophone Coalition, celebrating Charlie and over. Fridays, 10 p.m. my805tix.com. MUSICParker’s 106th birthday! Aug. 29, 7:30 p.m.

Beso Cocina, 1050 Willow Road, Nipomo. $10-$40. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, POPS BY THE SEA: SYMPHONY REMIX San Luis Obispo.

Enjoy this outdoor, family friendly FLAVOR/EATS TMHA PRESENTS: ROOTS & RHYTHM symphony concert blending beloved pop LIVE MUSIC & STORYTELLING AT classics with one-of-a-kind mashups of iconic hits, featuring local powerhouse INFO GROWING GROUNDS DOWNTOWN, HOSTED BY YNANA ROSE This new SLO music series aims to raise awareness and invite conversations around mental health CALENDAR and wellness with live music in a beautiful downtown setting Every other Wednesday, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 544-4967.

Send event information to calendar@ OPINION facebook.com/events/2159625194608460/. santamariasun.com.

Growing Grounds Downtown, 956 Chorro St., San Luis Obispo.

NEWS horn band Brass Mash! Sept. 5, 4-6:30 p.m.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y $25. (805) 543-3533. my805tix.com/e/ BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE pops2026. Avila Beach Golf Resort, STROKES A rockin’ blues dance party at Niffy’s 6464 Ana Bay Rd., Avila Beach.

SATCHVANHAGAR: VAN HALEN, SAMMY Merrimaker every first, third, and now HAGAR, AND JOE SATRIANI TRIBUTE ARTS fifth Wednesdays. The Blues Asylum house band welcomes local, visiting, and SVH celebrates the electrifying music and newcomers to the blues groove. Spirits, legacy of Van Halen, Sammy Hagar, and beer, and wine, with outside food welcome.

Joe Satriani, bringing the music to life!

Every other Wednesday, 7-10 p.m.

Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m. $39.50-$65.50. (805) Free. (805) 235-5223. The Merrimaker 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos. for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

EASTON EVERETT Enjoy guitar-woven neo-folk pop, noteworthy singing, and STELLA HEATH AND THE BILLIE writing. Aug. 29, 6-8 p.m. The Clubhouse HOLIDAY PROJECT The Billie Holiday Project presents Stella Heath and The Billie Grill at Sea Pines, 250 Howard Ave., Holiday Project, celebrating the life, legacy, Los Osos, (805) 528-2333. and music of Lady Day. Sept. 4, 7:30-9 p.m. MUSIC AT THE ROCK With conductor $34-$59. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/.

Keith Waibel, join the Morro Bay White Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Caps for a delightful concert including Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. pops, jazz, and classical tunes on the South T-Pier. Aug. 29, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

STONE SOUP MUSIC FESTIVAL & Free. (805) 459-9543.

STREET FAIR Enjoy music, food, booths, and more at the Stone Soup Music Festival morrobaywhitecaps.com. Embarcadero Morro Bay, The corner of Embarcadero & Street Fair, a Grover Beach tradition! and Front Street, Morro Bay. Aug. 29, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. and Aug. 30, 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. (805) 489-9444.

OPEN MIC NIGHT Each Wednesday, enjoy clarkcenter.org/. Ramona Garden Park, this Open Mic Night in the dining area. Grab 933 W. Ramona Ave., Grover Beach. some friends and show off your talents.

Food and drink service will be available.

SAN LUIS OBISPO Wednesdays, 6 p.m. Free. (805) 995-3883.

BRASS MASH FIRST FRIDAY AT SLO schoonerscayucos.com. Schooners, BREW ROCK! First Fridays are magical 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos. m

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Featured Events

Best of SLO County Winners Party

If I Only Had a Song

FRIDAY, MAY 8 The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, Pismo Beach

SUNDAY, MAY 10 Community Presbyterian, Cambria

SLO Octoberfest

NMF Smoke Show Burnout Competition

Alex Madonna Expo Center, SLO

Santa Margarita Ranch

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10

Spread the word!

CLIP and SAVE!

Santa Cruz Family Band

Jackie Hollander

TalentDreams Jamboree 2026

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 The Pour House, Paso Robles

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 SLO Brew Rock, SLO

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Camp Arroyo Grande

Butterfly Ball CCSPA’s 50th Year Anniversary

Carbon City Lights in the Grove

Skynyrd Reloaded

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Octagon Barn, SLO

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Paso Bamboo, Paso Robles

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 The Pour House, Paso Robles

Conscious-Fest Booth Reservations

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Mission Plaza, SLO

Taste & Sculpture Tour

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Sculpterra Winery, Paso Robles

Orchestra Novo Goes Silent: For Heaven’s Sake

Del Rancho al Antro Brunch

Stage Door Film Screening

The Mac & Cheese Festival 2026

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Harold J. Miossi CPAC, SLO

You are invited to celebrate our 30 year anniversary Come sip and support at Bien Nacido Winery 3503 Rancho Tepusquet Road, Santa Maria SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2026 | 11 AM - 4 PM Wine tasting, food and ice cream trucks, Nature Talk

by NHM Co-President and Naturalist, David Kisner, music by Jon Milsap 11:00 - 2:30 PM

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 The Stockyard, Orcutt

SUNDAY, AUGUST 30, 2026 | 11 AM - 4 PM

Music, wine tasting, food and ice cream trucks, Nature Talk. Naturalist David Kisner: "Tools for the Beginning or Expert Naturalist": apps for your phone

15% of sales will be donated to NHMSM

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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Avila Beach Golf Resort

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(805) 614-0806 • smnaturalhistory.org • naturalhistory412.santamaria@gmail.com www.santamariasun.com • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • Sun • 17

Arts

STROKES

ARTS BRIEFS A Lompoc gallery honors the life of a prominent local painter

Showtime!

Rare pieces by a Danish artist are showing in Solvang PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ELVERHOJ MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND ART

The work of one of Denmark’s most treasured 20th century artists, Bjørn Wiinblad (1918-2006), is on display at the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art through Jan. 10 next year.

Wiinblad crafted ceramics, porcelain, glass, textiles, wood, and theater designs, according to the museum. William Derrenbacher donated selections for the exhibit, titled Through the Eyes of Bjørn Wiinblad.

“This exhibition represents a transformational moment for Elverhoj Museum,” Executive Director Sandie Mullin said in a press release. “There are moments in the life of a museum that feel less like acquisitions and more like homecomings.

Mr. Derrenbacher’s extraordinary gift ensures that this remarkable collection will educate and inspire visitors for generations to come.”

Aunty Ella (pictured) is a ceramic figurine circa 1957.

Additional pieces in the collection include platters and candleholders.

“The exhibition features ceramics from Wiinblad’s own studio, his celebrated collaborations with Nymølle and Rosenthal, along with tapestries, posters, glass, and other works that showcase the remarkable diversity of his artistic vision.”

Visit the museum at 1624 Elverhoj Way in Solvang from Thursday to Sunday between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Discover more details online at elverhoj.org or on Instagram @elverhojmuseum. m Staff Writer Madison White compiles Arts Briefs. Send more showings to mwhite@santamariasun.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHARON SHELTZER

IMAGE COURTESY OF SHARON SHELTZER AND 12 WILLOWS PRESS

ARTS

Send gallery, stage, and cultural festivities to mwhite@santamariasun.com.

COURTESY IMAGE BY ALAN FREEMAN

Inside the Grossman Gallery at the Lompoc Public Library, a retrospective show will honor the life of Alan Freeman. The painter, who passed away in March last year, was one of the founding members of The Lompoc Ten. The display of Freeman’s work will be up from Sept. 2 to 29.

Visit 501 E. North Ave. during regular library hours, Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday to Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. A reception is scheduled for Sept. 5 from 1 to 3 p.m.

“Over the years, Freeman’s backyard studio in Lompoc became filled to the brim with both traditional and expressionist pieces,” according to press materials. “In many ways he can be compared to Van Gogh, with his high-key color harmony and endless sense of exploration.”

Freeman was raised in Santa Barbara and served in the Vietnam War before choosing the life of an artist, according to the gallery. The surfer, bicyclist, and hiker, was inspired by nature and outdoor activities. Many of his works were quite large, too. “[Freeman] not only left behind his loving wife, Carla, a legacy of compassion, courage, and humor,” the gallery stated, “but also a tremendous output of a lifetime of art.”

For more information, call the library at (805) 875-8775.

BOOKS

NEWS

NATURE LOVER: Central Coast author Sharon Sheltzer’s writing focuses on environmental and climate change concerns.

Hope from tragedy Lady of the Waves follows a protagonist on her journey of recovery

BY GLEN STARKEY

C

entral Coast author Sharon Sheltzer’s new young adult romance and adventure novel, Lady of the Waves: Love in the Time of Climate Change, opens with a bang. Twelve-yearold protagonist Aallotar, on vacation with her Finnish family in Thailand, heads to the beach with her mother. “We only have another week in paradise,” her mom says. Suddenly, the sea begins to recede as a tsunami forms. What follows is a gripping disaster sequence written with cinematic intensity as the massive wall of water sweeps over Aallotar and her mother, separating them and destroying the resort and village.

The backdrop is based on a real event. On Dec. 26, 2004, the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami killed 227,989 people in 14 countries— the single deadliest natural disaster in history.

It’s a traumatic event that begins a decade-long story as Aallotar processes her loss, embarks on a science career focused on mitigating natural disasters, and strikes up a slow burning romance with 14-year-old Daniel, who she meets in the aftermath of the tsunami when he arrives in Thailand with his parents—therapists there to help kids process trauma. In adulthood, Daniel becomes a climate activist, and he and Aallotar rediscover one another at a global climate summit.

Sheltzer’s novel focuses on worthy themes: “Resilience, that would probably be No. 1,” she said. “The importance of family, that power comes from education. Also, redemption versus revenge.

Empathy is the key to developing passion. Aallotar eventually gets there.”

Aallotar is angry at what happened to her family, but through the course of the story, she learns to channel her anger into something positive and hopeful. It’s a great read, and the climate angle is right in Sheltzer’s wheelhouse. She’s a member of The League of Climate Fiction Writers, and she’s had a lifelong interest in environmentalism.

“When I was in architecture school, I immediately decided that that’s where my interest was,” she said.

After graduating, Sheltzer lived and worked in San Francisco before moving to the small town

18 • Sun • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

of Three Rivers, where she “had the opportunity to open my own business, and people there were environmentally leaning, and so I had an opportunity to specialize in construction types, like off-the-grid solar, rammed earth, straw bale, and SIP [structural insulated panel] blocks. My career was very much oriented in that direction, and I felt the responsibility to make sure that my buildings were energy efficient.”

It took a local writers conference to inspire her to transition from writing articles and a Substack about environmental concerns to taking on novels.

“I recently retired when I moved here, and honestly, I just thought, whatever I do in the next phase of my life, it has to be creative because that’s where I get my energy from. I love being creative, so I sat with it for a little while, trying to figure out where I wanted to put my creativity, and I gave myself a birthday present to go to the Cuesta College Central Coast Writers Conference, and that cemented it for me.

“It was just a natural that I would write about environmental subjects,” she continued. “And it makes me feel like it can still make a difference, you know? If I can reach out and tell stories and have people connect with the narratives and see themselves in that narrative and find agency, that’s my goal.”

While living with her husband in Visalia, Sheltzer discovered Los Osos and the Central Coast through a friend.

“It had everything that we dreamed of. It was laid-back, very dog centered, very water centered.

We’re both water people, dog people, and it was a little bit more liberal than the valley with a lot of outdoor activities. People were super active here and interested in the environment, birding and hiking, and boating, things like that. It was just an absolute no-brainer for us.”

Lady of the Waves was also informed by experiences from Sheltzer’s past.

“When I was in architecture school, I did a semester at the University of Maryland and was inspired by the designer of the Vietnam Memorial, [Maya Lin]. She was a 21-year-old girl, and she had

LADY OF THE WAVES: When 12-year-old protagonist Aallotar survives a devastating tsunami, she dedicates her life to the science of battling storms in this YA romance and adventure novel.

Where to get it

Local author Sharon Sheltzer’s young adult romance and adventure novel, Lady of the Waves: Love in the Time of Climate Change, is available in Morro Bay’s Coalesce Bookstore and Los Osos’ Volumes of Pleasure, and online through the publisher, 12 Willows Press (12willowspress.com), or other online retailers.

Learn more about the author at sharondsheltzer.com.

an impact on me. Then I was listening to an NPR special, and it featured another award-winning young lady who had designed an underwater catchment system in Thailand to help in case of tsunamis. I filed that away.”

These remarkable real-life women helped inform Aallotar, but personal experiences also played a part in the story.

“I [hosted] a foreign exchange student from Finland, and a foreign exchange student from Thailand, and we spent quite a bit of time in Finland in a non-touristy kind of way, so the places I describe are real,” Sheltzer noted. “I also knew about the tsunami and had seen some scenes from it, and it impacted me. I thought, ‘What would happen if I was in there, and what would have happened if this woman’s [catchment] design had been implemented? Would it have helped?’”

She wanted a coming-of-age story for Daniel and Aallotar, but also the climate change comingof-age story.

“For me personally, I became aware of climate change from Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth in 2006,” she noted.

Sheltzer hopes her novel will spark an interest in climate science, and despite a renewal of climate change denial and the gutting of environmental protections by the Trump administration, she remains hopeful.

“There’re lots of studies that continue that are finding remarkable solutions. Just last night, I saw a special on how China has discovered how to manufacture an alternate plastic made of 100 percent bamboo plus a couple of chemicals that are natural, and they’re starting to do it,” she said.

“There’s bad, plenty of bad out there, and then there’s good. We’re retrograde right now because of our politics. But in other countries, they’re proceeding, and there’s a lot of smart people all over the world working to make things better.” m Contact New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey, from the Sun’s sister paper, at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.

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Film

SUN SCREEN PHOTO COURTESY OF A24

Becoming Bourdain

tried-and-true account of Bourdain’s early years, you’ll probably have more fun with it. I was always interested and entertained by the real guy, more att Johnson (BlackBerry) directs this story about 19-year-old so than by this version of him. There were fun elements—Banderas Anthony Bourdain (Dominic Sessa), who in 1975 travels to is particularly good and a joy to watch as he dumps water on Tony’s Provincetown to follow his crush, Nancy (Emilia Jones), and head each morning as an alarm clock, but I think I’ll stick with winds up with his first kitchen job. (106 min.) watching reruns of the real Bourdain travel the world.

Glen: I guess I liked it a lot more than you. I thought Sessa was Glen: The film begins with a quote from Kitchen Confidential: terrific. I felt like his Tony was learning every lesson the hard way, Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly, Anthony Bourdain’s a raw and he played Bourdain with real tenacity but also an openness confessional published in 2000 about his rocky, drugto new experiences. He was pure arrogance masking fueled, grueling road to becoming a chef: “I was—to be insecurity. I only watched a smattering of Anthony TONY frank—a spoiled, miserable, narcissistic, self-destructive, Bourdain’s various food shows and travelogues, so I and thoughtless young lout, badly in need of a good What’s it rated? R think you have a better handle on who he was in real What’s it worth, Anna? ass-kicking.” Indeed, when we meet Tony, he’s a real life. I thought as a coming-of-age story, Tony presented Matinee prick—a cocky, self-aggrandizing liar, unappreciative a tale that felt like a real depiction of the painful ups What’s it worth, Glen? of others. The world owes him, see? He’s also clearly and downs of late adolescence as you’re struggling to Full price intelligent—he gets his smarts from his mother, who be seen and respected. I highly recommend it.

Where’s it showing? he deeply resents. Yet, he’s also earnest and wants to Anna: I just wasn’t feeling an hour and a half or so Fair Oaks, Palm, make his mark. To impress and intimidate others, he with a moody 19-year-old dude who was very woeDowntown Centre, drops big words like bildungsroman, which is pure is-me. Look, if you’ve worked in a kitchen or fancy Bay (beginning foreshadowing, for this story is Bourdain’s coming-ofyourself a chef, you’ve likely become very familiar with Sept. 25), Colony, age as he evolves from shitty little asshole into decent Bourdain and his oeuvre, and maybe I’m being too Park human being, in part because of the guidance of his first picky about it. There was a great documentary called chef, José Vatel (Antonio Banderas). I cringed at Tony’s Roadrunner in 2021, which I totally recommend. This assholery but found the story very touching. film is worth the price of a theater ticket, but you might feel a bit Anna: Bourdain himself admits that Kitchen Confidential is a heavy after it—which is fine! Bourdain was a notoriously depressed blend of reality and hyperbole, and this film decides to run with and isolated man, and this doesn’t shy away from that. It just isn’t that spirit. I loved the book, and I have to say I found the author’s necessarily very fun to visit that headspace. The story’s ultimately voice more charming than I did Sessa’s on-screen portrayal. While sweet though, and like I said, Banderas was fun. Sessa was great Bourdain freely admitted to his shortcomings, his pompousness, as an actor—but you have to admit his character was kind of a his tendency toward drugs and drink, the man himself was I think bummer. I’m interested to find out what those who knew Bourdain far less maudlin and lovelorn than the film version. Sure, Nancy around this time in his life think of the film. m was his first and longtime wife, but from all accounts, the two were already involved before he spent time in Provincetown, and the film New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey seems to smoosh many summers into one. If you don’t treat this as a write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

M

TRIAL BY FIRE: A 19-year-old Anthony Bourdain (Dominic Sessa) lies his way into his first kitchen experience, in Tony, screening in local theaters.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MAGNOLIA PICTURES

NORMAL

What’s it rated? R When? 2025 Where’s it showing? HBO Max Directed by Ben Wheatley (Meg 2: The Trench, Free Fire, Kill List) from Derek Kolstad’s script based on a story co-written with star Bob Odenkirk, Normal follows an interim sheriff, Ulysses (Odenkirk), of the fictional town of Normal, Minnesota. After a botched bank robbery, Ulysses discovers the town’s bank is safeguarding a huge stash of gold, cash, and weapons belonging to a yakuza crime syndicate.

Mayor Kibner (Henry Winkler) offers to cut Ulysses in on the town’s sweet deal with the yakuza, but he refuses, and now the town’s deputies want Ulysses dead, and the yakuza are on their way to protect their interests.

EVERYMAN: Bob Odenkirk stars as Ulysses, If you’ve enjoyed Odenkirk’s other forays into the interim sheriff of a small town with yakuza roles as an unlikely action hero—Nobody (2021) and connections, in Normal, streaming on HBO Max. Nobody 2 (2025), both penned by Kolstad, who also wrote the John Wick franchise—you’ll know what as surprising or satisfying as Nobody, but Odenkirk is likeable to expect. with a hangdog everyman vibe and commendable moral core.

Ulysses is just trying to do his job, keep his head down, Plus, he’s funny. (91 min.) and not ruffle any feathers, but instead he’s forced into —Glen combat mayhem as he struggles to survive. It’s certainly not

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PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

THE IDAHO MURDERS: COLLEGE NIGHTMARE

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2026 Where’s it showing? Netflix Ethan Chapin, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Madison Mogen were Ohio State students whose lives were cut short by a Washington State student in 2022 in an offcampus home while they slept. This series blends memories shared from those who loved them most, heartbreaking footage from first responders, and interviews with the perpetrator’s fellow students that offer more insight into what was lost that day.

Frustratingly, no one has a real answer for why these four were targeted, and while the killer’s now appealing, he pled guilty before having to stand trial, leaving family and friends of the victims without answers.

TRAGEDY: Netflix’s The Idaho Murders: College Netflix has found a true crime niche, and I’m Nightmare revisits a horrible crime through bodycam as guilty as any of consuming more than my fair footage, texts, and interviews with loved ones. share. I do think that the awareness on how to avoid sensationalizing violent crimes has grown were robbed of the chance to see those futures through. as more shows are created. I hope being a part of this series (three 45-min. episodes) m was a cathartic and healing process for those suffering the —Anna loss of these bright-futured young men and women who

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Eats

FOOD PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSE ANGULO

PHOTO BY PIETER SAAYMAN

FINELY FROSTED: Big Mamas Bakery sells cupcakes, cheesecakes, cinnamon rolls, brownies, and other sweet treats.

The founders generally make daily deliveries between Pismo Beach and Lompoc.

Just like grandma’s

deliveries at pickup spots up and down the Central Coast until as as 9:30 p.m. Then, Big Mamas bakes cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, and cheesecakes late she wakes up and does it all over again. to perfection in Guadalupe and beyond Big Mamas Bakery

BY MADISON WHITE has a different theme for each day of the Today, Rubio connects with her week. It helps Rubio stick to a schedule wife, Rose Angulo, over baking and laying in the kitchen always kept because otherwise she’d get carried young Alicia Rubio happy. An only cooking, too. The Guadalupe couple away making all types of sweets in one child for 15 years, some of her early started their cottage business, Big sitting.

Mamas Bakery, almost two years ago. memories are of bonding with her Munchie Mondays are reserved for They make deliveries nearly every day grandmother while baking. brownies and cookies. Rubio is known between Pismo Beach and Lompoc “I don’t know Spanish, but my to whip up classic brownies as well as with common stops in Santa Maria, grandma’s more of a Spanish speaker, Oreo and peanut butter flavors.

Nipomo, and Guadalupe. so we had to figure out a way to She has a “really good” chocolate chip “Shockingly I’ve actually gotten an understand each other more. Baking cookie recipe that can be made into was what helped us,” Rubio told the Sun. order out in Santa Barbara because I normal size snacks or mini two-biters. have family that lives out there,” Rubio They made conchas together, laying “I try to do both sets, so whatever a foundation for Rubio’s career working added. cookies I could do, I could do minis A few months ago, she quit her job in bakeries. as well so that we can have a party “We couldn’t figure out the sugar part to pursue their small business full pack,” she said of the small ones, which on top when I was younger. … Grandma time because she wanted to be her remind her of cookies she used to eat at own boss. Rubio drives her wife and used to talk crap because she couldn’t the mall. their son to school in Nipomo, where get the sugar to stick, but we figured it Tone it Down Tuesdays are for Angulo works as a teacher, and then out,” Rubio remembered with a laugh.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSE ANGULO resting, but the business picks up Rubio spends the whole day baking. again with cheesecakes on Whip It Wednesdays. Dulce de leche is always After picking a crowd favorite, and also popular them up in the right now are Oreo and pumpkin. late afternoon, The business owner said she’ll make Rubio makes

P

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSE ANGULO

‘STICKY ICKY THURSDAY’: Rose Angulo is one half of Big Mamas Bakery, based in Guadalupe. Her early memories in the kitchen are with her grandparents.

between 20 and 25 cheesecakes on an average Wednesday.

Sticky Icky Thursdays are reserved for what Rubio is best known for: cinnamon rolls. She’s found that she can experiment the most with the sticky breakfast treats. For a while, Rubio was the creative baker at Old West Cinnamon Rolls in Pismo Beach, crafting the special variations there.

She takes pride in changing the dough’s ingredients rather than just adding toppings or special frosting.

“I actually change the insides, so like my pumpkin spice is actually pumpkin spice throughout the whole cinnamon roll instead of just natural cinnamon,” Rubio explained. “I also do an Oreo roll. That one comes out in October.

That one is actually just pure Oreos throughout it, there’s no cinnamon in it.”

Another combo from her repertoire, which has yet to drop at Big Mamas, is an apple pie roll with pie filling and a crumble topping. The possibilities are endless.

Foodie Friday is the baker’s choice.

Rubio typically revisits popular items from the week, so more customers have a chance to purchase them.

Cherry cheesecake sold out one week in August, but Rubio brought it back on Foodie Friday. That rhythm helps the couple cut down on food waste, too.

Hungry weekend customers can enjoy the newest addition, Sabroso Saturday, which has featured green

Get it from the mamas CHEESECAKE AFICIONADO: The creative mastermind behind Big Mamas Bakery, Alicia Rubio, has accumulated years of experience working in Central Coast kitchens.

She recently left a full-time job to dive 100 percent into the small business.

MINI OR REGULAR? Chocolate chip cookies are popular at Big Mamas Bakery. Mini versions can be baked to arrange a party pack, too.

22 • Sun • August 27 - September 3, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Message @bigmamasbakery8055 to place an order for shipping or for pickup at locations between Pismo Beach and Lompoc. The owners regularly stock goods at VP Racing Fuels (3705 Constellation Road) in Lompoc, too.

chicken pozole so far. Shifting away from sweets, Sabroso Saturday could be the precursor to the next phase of business. Rubio dreams of opening a food truck one day and has started baking her own bread to make sandwiches.

“I really want to have a food truck.

I don’t just want a bakery,” Rubio said.

“I’ve always been in restaurants as well.”

To wrap up the weekend, the bakers present Sweet Tooth Sunday. It’s the wives’ original themed day from when they started Big Mamas Bakery. With an entrepreneurial spirit, they set out to prove themselves.

Anyone can put a box mix in the oven, but Rubio is a “real baker,” Angulo said of her wife.

Customers compliment their goods, saying it tastes just like their grandma’s treats. The business owners want people to take a bite and feel comforted.

Angulo gives a lot of credit to her wife. She’s seen Rubio build herself back up amid personal struggles, inspiring others to write their own success stories. They also want to show their son that he comes from a line of strong, capable women.

“We’re proud that we’re brown and we’re gay,” Angulo said.

She’s had her own fair share of struggles. Angulo started this chapter of her life when she was living in a homeless shelter, running a separate dessert business named Rositas Manzanitas.

“We’ve been told we can’t do it,” Angulo said. “I want everybody to know that we did it. That Alicia did it.” m Reach Staff Writer Madison White enjoying a ‘sticky icky’ cinnamon roll at mwhite@santamariasun.com.

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