Sun, March 14, 2024

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Clearing the homeless encampments out of the Santa Maria Riverbed will take collaboration between SLO and Santa Barbara counties and Caltrans. Complicating the issue is a lack of sufficient shelter beds in both counties, with SLO County having more than 400 people on waitlists for its current shelter and transitional housing beds. While Santa Barbara County has already earmarked $3 million for the effort, San Luis Obispo County still seems to be in the planning stages for what it might commit to as part of a future cleanup. Staff Writer Samantha Herrera from the Sun’s sister paper speaks with both counties about the issue [6].

You can also read an update on the March 5 primary election results [4], about the Firedance Academy [20],

about what’s in store at the newest coffee shop on wheels [24]

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• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal and several colleagues introduced legislation to designate spaceports including Vandenberg Space Force Base, as eligible for tax-exempt municipal revenue bonds to incentivize investment in spaceport infrastructure, according to a March 8 statement from Carbajal’s office. Projects such as airports and docks currently qualify for tax-exempt municipal revenue bonds, which attract private investment for infrastructure projects. The Secure U.S. Leadership in Space Act allows spaceports the same options to garner needed investments for a rapidly evolving industry. The lawmakers cite U.S. adversaries’ heavy investment in space infrastructure, notably China, and the projected exponential growth of U.S. launches as critical reasons for their new bipartisan legislation. The number of space launches from the U.S. doubled in just the last seven years, according to the congressman’s office. “As the representative for Vandenberg Space Force Base, our nation’s West Coast range, my communities and I are seeing the firsthand reality of the exponential increase in commercial space launches year after year,” Carbajal said in the statement. “Opening publicprivate revenue sources like municipal bonds, which were a foundational tool to meeting our nation’s needs when our new frontiers were the ocean or the air, will help us meet this important moment in the development of our space economy.”

• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) announced that he secured more than $18.4 million in federal funding for 15 projects along the Central Coast in the first package of fiscal year 2024-25 appropriations bills, according to a March 5 statement from Padilla’s office. The package includes the Agriculture; Energy and Water; Military Construction-VA; Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development; Commerce, Justice, and Science; and Interior appropriations bills. “I am proud to have secured millions in funding for projects that will improve the quality of life along the Central Coast,” Padilla said in a statement. “These investments will support local governments and nonprofits working on the ground in our communities to protect against flooding and improve the reliability and quality of our water,” Padilla said in the statement.

“As water rates continue to climb and climate change causes devastating atmospheric-river floods, these investments in local infrastructure are critical for improving sanitation, water affordability, and agricultural production throughout the region.” Padilla secured $959,752 for Santa Maria to support the city’s storm drainage improvement project meant to protect communities during heavy rainfall and $2 million for San Luis Obispo County to replace the SLO County Sheriff’s Office dispatch system—which is reaching the end of its life and handles law enforcement dispatch and medical dispatch countywide.

• Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a new state council focused on creating jobs and awarding $182 million in grants to jumpstart the governor’s Regional Investment Initiative to accelerate economic and workforce projects throughout the state, according to a March 8 statement from Newsom’s office. The California Jobs First Council and its operational plan focuse on streamlining the state’s economic and workforce development programs to create more jobs. The council and operational plan will guide the state’s investments in economic and workforce development to create more family-supporting jobs and prioritize industry sectors for future growth.

“California has created more opportunities, more jobs, and more businesses than any other state, but we need to ensure that we’re all moving forward together,” Newsom said in the statement. “Through this new council and these investments, we’re aligning all of our economic resources to create more jobs, faster for Californians in every community.” m

READY FOR NOVEMBER? While the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors candidates will win outright if they get 50 percent plus one in the primary election, the top two vote-getters in state Senate and Assembly races will return to ballots for the November general election.

Preliminary results show incumbents lead in state races, Prop. 1 approved by 1 percent

While both sets of candidates in the local state Senate and Assembly races will march forward to the November general election, preliminary results show incumbent Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) and state Sen. Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara) in the lead.

“I’m gratified and humbled by the results, and I’m excited about getting back to work in Sacramento to serve our community,” Hart told the Sun. “Ms. [Sari] Domingues and I will be on the ballot again in November, so I’ll be working hard to make the case that I should come back as a member of the Assembly in November.”

Hart is running against Republican candidate Sari Domingues, a Santa Maria native and president of the Santa Barbara County Moms for Liberty chapter, to represent the 37th District that encompasses all of Santa Barbara County and southern SLO County. Preliminary election results show that 30.5 percent of registered voters had their ballots counted in Santa Barbara County and 32.9 percent in the SLO County area included in the 37th District.

“Generally speaking, historically the general election turnout is very robust and has been that way the past number of cycles and that will change dramatically,” Hart said. “I’m not sure if everyone is familiar with the March 5 primary. California’s attempt to change things around just didn’t seem to work as intended, and it’s something we should look at again in the next four years.”

Because the California primary election was normally held in June, Hart said that changing it to March caused people to turn in their ballots late this cycle and that residents “just aren’t as prepared as they are in June.”

According to preliminary election results, Hart earned 62.8 percent of the votes (44,194 ballots) and Domingues earned 37.1 percent (26,128) in Santa Barbara County. The race was closer in southern SLO County, with Hart taking 50.3 percent (2,902 ballots) and Domingues with 49.7 percent (2,872 ballots).

The Santa Barbara County Clerk-Recorder and Assessor’s Office was scheduled to have an updated count available on March 14, after the

Solvang funds study on roadside trail for pedestrians, bicyclists

To help curb a lingering safety concern, the city of Solvang is preparing to renovate a 2,400foot segment of Fredensborg Canyon Road. While there are residential driveways on both sides of the route, neither side has a sidewalk. Public Works Director Rodger A. Olds referred to this stretch of Fredensborg as “the greatest danger to pedestrians on our local roadway network” at the Solvang City Council’s March 11 meeting.

During the hearing, city officials and staff discussed the potential pros and cons of narrowing the route’s lanes to reduce speeding and developing a new multi-purpose trail, for both walkers and bicyclists, along Fredensborg.

“This project has been on the CIP [capital improvement program] for the last two years,” said Olds, who explained that staff began inspecting the site in question after receiving complaints from a few locals.

“There’s no pedestrian facilities along that route, and people drive pretty fast,” Olds said. “We saw a need and we’re looking to fill it with this project.”

Sun went to press. SLO County will have another update on March 15, and statewide elections must be certified by April 4.

Domingues told the Sun she felt good about her standing against Hart going into the general election.

“I wanted to hit 30 percent, and I hit 38 percent, and I think there’s still ballots that they are still counting. I’m very pleased,” she said. “I’m now going to be fundraising and looking for money and continuing to campaign, and my strategy is laid out, so we’ll see what happens.”

At the state Senate level, Democrat incumbent Limón faced Elijah Mack, a 19-year-old Libertarian (registered as a Republican on the ballot), to represent the 21st District—which encompasses Santa Barbara, and parts of SLO and Ventura counties.

Limón led in all three counties that encompass the 21st District, according to preliminary results. In Santa Barbara County, she received 64 percent of the votes, 62 percent in Ventura County, and 52 percent in SLO County. Mack received 35.5 percent, 37 percent, and 47 percent in each county respectively.

“I am grateful and humbled for the support I received from our community on election day, signaling their desire to have me continue representing our community in the State Senate,” Limón told the Sun in a statement. “I look forward to continuing to connect with voters over the coming months heading into the November election. My experience in local office and state office gives me the understanding of what is needed to tackle challenges in our state.”

Voters also weighed in on Proposition 1, which attempts to modernize the 2004 Mental Health Services Act and add a $6.4 billion bond measure to build 10,000 new beds to help those with serious mental illnesses and substance use disorders get housing. According to the secretary of state, 50.4 percent of California residents voted yes to approve Proposition 1, while 49.6 percent voted no. Ballots are still being counted.

Santa Barbara County voters leaned toward rejecting the measure, with 51 percent of residents voting no while 49 percent voted yes, according to preliminary results. In SLO County, 51 percent of residents voted no while 48.3 percent voted yes.

—Taylor O’Connor

Olds led a presentation on staff’s proposal for the city to contract with Tetra Tech, an international engineering firm with a Buellton office, to begin design work on a multi-purpose trail. The $145,079 contract also directs Tetra Tech to plan for pavement edge treatments along existing bike lanes on Viborg Road—which intersects with Fredensborg—and additional repairs on and near Fredensborg.

“I’m not a big fan of paying for this study,” Councilmember Robert Clarke said. “As far as the bike thing goes, I don’t buy it. … There’s miles and miles and miles of places people can ride their bikes. So the bike thing to me is out of the question.”

Clarke said he wants to see safety-related renovations for pedestrians on Fredensborg in the future, but doesn’t “think the money’s there right now.”

“That really is a dangerous street,” Clarke said, “but I think a lot of locals know that.”

Both Clarke and Councilmember Elizabeth Orona suggested that staff look into alternative options, since Tetra Tech’s contract proposal was the only formal proposal submitted to the city, although 20 companies expressed initial interest in response to a request for proposals (RFP) initiated in December of 2023, according to the staff report.

“Without a competitor, how are we assured that this is an optimized bid?” Elizabeth Orona asked Olds. “Did we negotiate? How are we assessing this against other bids that we’ve seen? You’re saying it’s reasonable, but what are we comparing this to?”

Olds explained that issuing another RFP could potentially lead to Solvang partnering with a more expensive firm than Tetra Tech, based on the city’s RFP rubric.

“This is an RFP process not a formal bidding process, so we don’t automatically award the lowest bidder,” Olds said. “It’s the most qualified proposal that gets scored independently. In this case, we had one to score. We still scored it and it hit on all the points. It was a legitimate proposal.”

The Solvang City Council ultimately decided to contract with Tetra Tech with a 3-2 vote. Clarke and Elizabeth Orona dissented.

—Caleb Wiseblood

Court orders Los Alamos fisherman to pay $19,000 for abandoning lobster traps

Christopher Miller, a 67-year-old Los Alamos resident, pleaded guilty in Santa Barbara County Superior Court for failing to complete lobster commercial fishing records and paid $19,340 in

restitution to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and a partnering nonprofit agency to remove at least 156 abandoned lobster traps around Santa Cruz Island.

Lobster season runs from the first Wednesday in October through the first Wednesday after March 15, according to CDFW commercial fishing regulations. If they’re left in state waters for more than 14 days after the season closes, they’re considered abandoned. Commercial fishing operations are also required by the CDFW to keep a record of fishing activity.

CDFW wildlife officers ordered Miller to remove his traps after the 2021-22 commercial lobster season ended, but he failed to retrieve traps from state waters, according to the CDFW.

“Those abandoned traps continue to fish after they are abandoned. New lobsters and fish will go in there, they will die, and they become bait for more animals.” CDFW Lt. Scott Cohen told the Sun. “We call them ghost traps because no one is tending to them, they just continue to kill and kill.”

The CDFW partnered with the California Lost Fishing Gear Recovery Project, a nongovernmental organization funded through the California Coastal Commission, to remove all the traps and submitted its case to the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office, which filed charges against Miller on May 15, 2023.

“I think it sends a strong message to the fleet that abandoning traps is not acceptable,” Cohen said. “Failing to do so is really detrimental to the resource.

Lobster, I believe, is the second most valuable fishery in California.”

Gary Bright, Miller’s attorney from the Law Firm of Bright and Powell, told the Sun that Miller wired his traps open so they were not fishing.

“The only reason they were left beyond the time was because he had serious health issues for which he was hospitalized and prevented him from retrieving them on time,” Bright said.

“Several fishermen retrieved numerous traps on his behalf because they were aware of the fact that he was in the hospital with some serious health issues.”

This was Miller’s third time facing commercial lobster regulation violation charges since 2014, when he was charged with failing to display his fishing license and fined $500, according to court documents. In 2017, he accepted conviction—but did not admit guilt— to possessing lobster during closed season and had three other similar charges dismissed in court.

“He has had a rough couple of years,” CDFW Lt. Cohen said. “I think at the beginning of this case we were making efforts to get him to comply without having to take a regulatory stance, and he just failed to do it and it essentially forced our hand.”

The CDFW is reviewing Miller’s case at this time, and hasn’t committed to submitting a request to the California Fish and Game Commission to revoke his license, he said.

“Each case is dealt with individually because there’s so many different levels of violations, everything from not buying a fishing license all the way up to falsifying the documents or detriment to the resource,” Cohen said. “We have to look at each violation from all these angles and make a judgment call if it justifies taking away someone’s livelihood.” m

—Taylor O’Connor

housing facility was planned to open March 16, and there’s already a waitlist.

According to previous Sun reporting, the facility known as Hope Village will give individuals 24-hour access to mental health care, drug and alcohol treatment, and Social Services with the goal of getting people into permanent housing. Run by Good Samaritan Shelter, the project aims to help house some of the 473 individuals experiencing homelessness in Santa Maria.

BY SAMANTHA HERRERA

Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are teaming up to address a growing number of homeless encampments in the Santa Maria Riverbed.

A $6 million grant Gov. Gavin Newsom awarded to Santa Barbara County in 2023 aims to clean up encampments, including in the Santa Maria Riverbed between Santa Barbara and SLO counties that’s visible from Highway 101.

“Collaboration with Caltrans and San Luis Obispo County will address homelessness among a transient population between the city of Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County and more rural areas in San Luis Obispo County,” according to a 2023 Santa Barbara County newsletter.

Santa Barbara County 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson told the Sun that one of the unique things about this deal is that even though Santa Barbara is the lead agency that asked for the $6 million grant, $3 million of that money will be used in SLO County.

“The county of San Luis Obispo supported us by writing a letter of support so we could receive this grant, and right now we’re having some conversations and it’s been a little painful, but I think we’re getting there on the cooperation,” he said.

However, Nelson said that there have been minor complications while trying to plan with SLO County about building more shelter beds.

During brainstorming sessions about how to house the estimated 110 to 150 people currently living in the riverbed, Santa Barbara County suggested that both counties build new shelter beds. After coming up with a number they thought was fair, Santa Barbara County said it would contribute 80 percent of the beds and SLO County should build 20 percent, but SLO County didn’t seem interested, Nelson said.

“We kind of went back and forth on our side trying to figure this out, so we ultimately said that we’ll have the beds because the odds are that they’re probably coming to us,” he said. “So we told them we just need to make sure that you guys cooperate with us when we do these evictions because this is your jurisdiction and we need your law enforcement involved.”

While the Santa Maria Riverbed is in SLO County, only 10 percent of those living there identify as SLO

County residents, said SLO County Deputy Director of Social Services Linda Belch, which is why Santa Barbara County is taking the lead on this project. With an already overwhelming amount of people on waiting lists to get into shelters in SLO County, that extra 10 percent would stretch SLO’s resources very thin, she said.

Wendy Lewis, CEO of the El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO), said that between the nonprofit’s two shelters in Atascadero and Paso Robles, ECHO currently has a 200-person waitlist.

“Even though someone’s on the waitlist, they can already get started with a case management program,” she said. “We also offer evening meals at both locations so they can start building community and having a sense of trust with us. We also offer showers, and we have clothing and other supplies, toiletries, and things for basic hygiene.”

Unlike a traditional emergency shelter, ECHO is a 90-day program which can give stability for those in need by offering them the opportunity to sleep in the same bed for three months so they can take the necessary steps back into housing, Lewis said.

ECHO isn’t the only shelter in SLO County with an extensive waitlist. SLO County 4th District Supervisor Jimmy Paulding said that the 5 Cities Homeless Coalition also has a 200-person waitlist for its overnight shelter beds, but he noted that new housing projects are in the works.

“5 Cities Homeless Coalition is in the process of completing a 30-unit transitional housing project in Grover Beach, which will give them 50 beds additional beds,” he said. “We’re also working on an 80-bed interim and supportive housing project in SLO, which is grant-funded through the state, and we’re trying to determine the best sites to construct that new housing facility.”

In addition, Paulding said the county is in a financial partnership with the city of San Luis Obispo to convert a Motel 6 into 76 units of permanent supportive housing.

Belch said that the Santa Maria Riverbed cleanup will be based on when those additional shelters become available, so the additional clients don’t overwhelm the county’s existing providers.

“This is going to be an 18- to 24-month process where we’re really going to engage with the individuals over there and try to navigate them to the new shelter that best meets their needs,” she said.

Santa Barbara County is also struggling with providing available shelters to the homeless population. Nelson said that a new 94-unit interim

The original intention for the modular units, Nelson said, was that they wouldn’t be made available for those living in the riverbed because 10 would be dedicated to 18- to 24-year-olds exiting the foster care system and experiencing homelessness, 30 units dedicated to recuperative care after a hospital stay, and 54 to community members in general.

“I eventually caved and said that there will be a portion of these made available for a portion of this cleanup process so that we could get the number that we needed,” he said. “Mostly because SLO County wasn’t willing to offer any, so I had to make some of these available to make both projects work.”

Once the riverbed is cleared out, SLO County would need to provide law enforcement presence to ensure that the encampments don’t return, Nelson said.

“If we use $3 million to clear it and then the county goes, ‘OK, thanks’ and doesn’t do anything after that, then it’s all going to be for naught,” he said. “I mean, the biggest waste of taxpayer dollars.”

Paulding said the cleanup project is complex because the riverbed falls under different jurisdictions.

“The complicating factor is the fact that over 100 individuals … in the riverbed are mainly in the county of Santa Barbara’s jurisdiction, but they’re also in our jurisdiction as well. Then if you go under the freeway overpass, they’re in Caltrans jurisdiction, and beyond that, there are private parcels, undeveloped private parcels out there that create another layer of just having to coordinate with private property owners as it relates to right of entry,” he said.

While SLO County Sheriff Ian Parkinson is committed to helping with the encampment cleanup, Paulding said the issue really comes down to long-term enforcement, and SLO County is in the planning phase of building a Nipomo sheriff’s substation.

SLO County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Tony Cipolla said that the Nipomo substation is in the very early phases of the design-build process.

“At this early stage of the project, an estimated completion date has not yet been established,” he said, adding that the station will be built on county-owned property on Tefft Street.

“From a long-term standpoint, having an increased law enforcement presence in Nipomo will not only reduce response times for typical calls for service,” Paulding said, “but also station a community action team deputy in South County that could work out in that area and do outreach with the homeless population in the riverbed.” m

Reach New Times Staff Writer Samantha Herrera from the Sun’s sister paper at sherrera@ newtimesslo.com.

RIVER ENCAMPMENTS: Santa Barbara County plans to spend $3 million of a $6 million state grant to help clean up the Santa Maria Riverbed, where 110 to 150 people are currently living in homeless encampments.

Flying high

The Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum hosts its annual Kite Festival for families to spend time together

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

The Santa Maria Family Kite Festival is one of Jenn Malone’s favorite days of the year.

“There’s something about hundreds of kites in the air flying harmoniously at the same time. It’s a miracle they don’t get tangled, but I love the joy these kids are expressing [during] their fun and learning,” said Malone, the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum’s executive director.

“I love all the colors and different kites everyone brings—we never have a repeat kite in the sky, everyone has a kite that’s unique to them.”

The Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum is a local nonprofit dedicated to fostering family and youth-inspired learning by creating experiences to explore the valley and beyond, according to the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum website. For at least the past 10 years, the museum, in partnership with the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department, has hosted the annual Family Kite Festival where local families can enjoy being outside and spend time together outside while flying kites, she said.

“I know the main drive behind it was to offer something unique and different for the community, especially targeting families to come and do something fun for free that would be giving their family an opportunity to bond and have an awesome day outside,” Malone said.

This year, the Family Kite Festival will take place on April 7 from noon to 4 p.m. at Rotary Centennial Park, where families can fly kites, enjoy food from local restaurants, explore local business booths, see kite-flying demonstrations, listen to live music, and participate in kiteflying contests, she said. Ambassadors from the American Kitefliers Association—the largest association of kiters in the world that wants to share the joy of kites with people throughout the country—will be there to help coach families.

“We will host a kite hospital booth as well, so if the kids’ kites need first aid, we can hopefully fix them,” Malone said.

The museum will also host its annual running of the Bols race where kids wear a parachutetype kite and race each other to show how energy, inertia, and grit come together, she said. People can bring their own kites, or the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks booth will provide free colorful kites for pickup.

“As far as attendees, we have

grown significantly from the beginning years that we started—last year was our most-attended year for the kite festival, and we anticipate that it will continue growing,” Malone said. “I love that there’s so many community supporters that come out, so the community knows what’s available to them.”

While there’s games to pick and choose from, the day isn’t structured and gives kids the freedom to explore the park, fly kites, and spend time with their loved ones, she said.

“The kids get to create their own story behind what the day means to them. It’s not a classroom environment. It’s a play, have fun, and be imaginative atmosphere, and that’s what I stand behind,” Malone said.

The Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department helps with the event’s logistics, provides the festival space, and works with the vendors and booths, she added.

“We are a very small nonprofit, and we would never be able to do the kite festival without the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department. They are our strongarm that supports and provides what we need at the park,” Malone said.

The Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum is also looking for sponsorships—businesses or nonprofits that want to buy a booth for the festival and get social media and advertising recognition through the museum’s promotions, she said. Sponsorships are at least $250 per month.

“The museum doesn’t want kite flying to be a thing of the past, so I love that once a year it’s on the forefront one day for our families to have something fun to do, and it’s simple,” Malone said.

Rotary Centennial Park is located at 2625 South College Drive. Direct questions or sponsorship interest inquiries to info@smvdiscoverymuseum. org or call (805) 928-4144.

Highlight

• The Santa Barbara County Water Agency and local water providers announced the 2024 WaterWise Garden Recognition Contest. This annual contest aims to recognize Santa Barbara County residents’ beautiful and water-efficient landscapes. Participants can apply online to compete for the “coveted agency award” and countywide grand prize. Winners will be showcased online and receive an engraved stone boulder. Residents who have the Vandenberg Village Community Services District, Santa Ynez River Water Conservation Improvement District 1, or Buellton as their water provider are eligible to apply. Visit waterwisesb.org/gardencontest to view contest rules and submit the application online. All applications are due April 30. m

Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.

Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum’s annual Family

What is this week’s online poll question?

80% Feeling good and happy I got to vote.

20% I was glad to vote, but I’m nervous watching the results come in.

0% I am not looking forward to the November general election.

0% We were supposed to vote on March 5? 5 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

Santa Maria, CA 93454

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If

you’re a badass who wants to effect change, run for local

elected office

BY DONA HARE PRICE

The other night, I heard an elected leader talk about her time as an activist and how the “inside-outside” approach has been a theme in her life. This local female leader is what I would label a “badass.”

Time and age have mellowed her but if you scratch the surface, the hard-core activist is still there. To paint a picture for you, at Columbia University during the time of the Students for Democratic Society’s occupation of campus buildings, she was in the thick of it. She spent her days as a teacher, climbing into a building to occupy it with others at night. It feels a little bit like a radical ’70s Superman, teacher by day in Harlem and activist at night, changing from a cape and suit to denim bell-bottoms.

I sat there marveling that many people would be unable to square her radical acts to fight for equity as they only hear her sometimes pedantic responses at government meetings. However, city council meetings require arcane comments and a low burning fire in one’s belly to effect change. In activism, there is a strategy of organizing called the inside-outside approach. Community organizing is the process of building power through involving a constituency in identifying problems they share and the solutions to those problems that they desire. It is mobilizing people to find solutions,

meeting with those who have power to make change, and pushing policy and change that benefit the collective good. The reality of our society is inequity exists because groups that benefit from inequity hold power; organizing moves the power to those who are impacted by the imbalance of power.

The inside-outside strategy approach, as described by The Stanford Daily, “is the general philosophy or strategy of organizing that prioritizes both those activists/advocates embedded inside political structures, and those based outside of them.”

Any inside-outside strategy is that the inside work within the organization (transformation) synergizes with the outside work outside the organization (pressure) to change policy and make societal change that benefits the majority.

I am no stranger to organizing; however, it still left me starstruck to hear the local elected’s story and application of an organizing principle to her life and political career. I realized that the elected’s success and huge accomplishments were a result of her organizing background and ability to work for policy on the inside and mobilization of folks and community organizations on the outside.

Understanding policy, the importance of relationships, and unifying people to fight for their self-interest and that of their neighbors is the very definition of an activist. Can it also be the definition of a good elected leader?

For the past four years, I have trained with Aftyn Behn, an organizer with Rural Organizing. Aftyn Behn is now a representative for the Tennessee state

House. She, like our local elected, lives the “insideoutside” strategy. However Aftyn’s actions took on a more organizing and political theater approach.

Aftyn showed up to all of Diane Black’s events, an out-of-touch Republican who ran for Tennessee governor, as “Diantoinette,” wearing a 2-foot-tall white wig and a pale pink period dress with a lovely smile. Aftyn drew the parallel to Black and Marie Antoinette with a strategic media campaign, attending Black’s events and talking to voters at local eateries in costume. It paid off, Black lost.

The dogged determination for change, a touch of humor, theater, relational organizing, and hard work are Aftyn’s backbones; she also knocked on 8,000 doors to win the state House seat.

So, I’m sending a message to all activists, organizers, board members of community or faithbased organizations, PTA chairs, Girl Scout troop leaders, parents fighting for equity for our trans children, union leaders, student leaders, teachers, and neighbors who mobilized a neighborhood to advocate for safe parking—please run for office. The time is now, and we need you.

Take Aftyn’s and our local elected’s cue: It can be fun, cheeky, and meaningful, and change our corner of the world.

Contact your local and national political party for assistance.

Let’s get some badass activists elected in 2024 and participate in the radical change that is possible with community organizing and political representation. m

Dona Hare Price is a local activist and a facilitator of Dismantling Racism From the Inside Out. Send a response for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.

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A reasonable commute, affordable home, dignified life

In making the argument that exclusive neighborhoods ought to remain socioeconomically segregated to preserve elite class bragging rights, John Donegan somehow manages to be both breathlessly condescending toward the less fortunate and also woefully ignorant of the types of housing policies that produce thriving communities (“Beverly hillbillies,” Feb. 29).

Donegan ignores a mountain of sociological

evidence pointing to the benefits of well-designed mixed-income neighborhoods for social solidarity, economic mobility, and shared prosperity. Evidence shows that neighborhoods segregated by social class tend to mirror hierarchies that develop in other facets of American civic life, exacerbating inequalities and contributing to accelerating rates of distrust and suspicion among citizens.

Beyond this, Donegan never pauses to consider the low-income individuals who serve these wealthy communities—workers whose labor is taken for granted even while their livelihoods and financial stability become increasingly precarious and

uncertain. These low-income workers are not asking for mansions in Beverly Hills, they’re merely asking for a reasonable commute, an affordable place to live, and the prospect of living a dignified life.

Vince

Meserko lecturer, Department of Communication Studies California Polytechnic State University

Nuclear power, weapons, and war need to go

March has a way of coming in like a lion.

On March 1, 1954, the U.S. military conducted a test explosion, called Castle Bravo, of a hydrogen bomb in the Bikini Aoll. This robbed the Bikini people and other Marshallese of their homeland and way of life and left them with extremely high rates of cervical, breast, gastrointestinal, and lung cancer due to radioactive contamination.

March also brings us International Women’s Day and reflections on reproductive rights: the right of women to have full autonomy over their bodies, the right to have or not have children, and the right to raise those children with dignity in a safe and healthy environment. These rights were violated for families on Bikini Atoll and have been violated in other campaigns of oppression on our planet.

Now, women in Gaza, with no access to reproductive care, and tens of thousands of children in Gaza, terrorized and starved, are being denied these rights. Additionally, the war in Ukraine drains all the participants of resources and lives better spent on health, education, climate regeneration, and brings us ever closer to nuclear war.

March 11 is the anniversary of the 2011 maximum severity nuclear accident in Fukushima, which is the source of “treated” radioactive water now being released into the Pacific Ocean. This is not “us vs. them.” It is us and them.

War is a major contributor to climate change, and nuclear power and weapons pose extreme danger to all citizens of the planet. Call for a cease-fire in Gaza and Ukraine and reject the risks to human health and biodiversity that nuclear weapons and nuclear power pose. Let’s have March go out like a lamb, in peace, justice, and health for all beings.

Dolores Howard Paso Robles

Janet Silveria President & CEO

It sounds like San Luis Obispo County wants the Santa Maria Riverbed cleanup remnants to land squarely in the lap of Santa Barbara County.

And by cleanup, I really mean clear-out. As in, a clear-out of the miniature cities that have popped up in the riverbed since last year’s flooding pushed them out, visible from Highway 101 in all their tarped, trashy glory!

By last estimates, between 110 to 150 people are living in the waterway, which is technically in SLO County, and if it gets cleared out, those houseless folks need shelter beds to go to and services. While Santa Barbara County’s 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson indicated that his county is committed to providing housing for most of them, SLO County’s 4th District Supervisor Jimmy Paulding committed to not much.

It would appear that SLO County is on the struggle bus, chugging along with not a lot of temporary or transitional housing for homeless people and hundreds-of-people-long waitlists for what little it does have. It sounds like a lot of what SLO County can commit to exists in future land—as in, it hinges on projects that are currently in the works but not realized.

Plus, SLO County Deputy Director of Social Services Linda Belch said, only 10 percent of the folks who call the riverbed home identify as SLO County residents. And even that 10 percent could overwhelm SLO County’s already stretched services.

If Santa Barbara County can provide beds, Nelson said, SLO County should provide the enforcement to keep people from returning to the riverbed. SLO County will provide that enforcement, Paulding said, but long-term, it will hinge on a long-planned Sheriff’s Office substation in Nipomo.

Paulding added that this whole riverbed cleanup thing is going to be complicated. There’s SLO County, Santa Barbara County, and Caltrans in the mix, jurisdiction-wise, plus private properties. How will they ever manage?

It sure sounds like the sense of urgency between SLO County and Santa Barbara County isn’t exactly equal. Santa Barbara County already has $3 million dedicated to the project and Nelson sounds like he’s ready to move full-steam ahead, while Paulding isn’t.

“If we use $3 million to clear it, and then the county goes, ‘OK, thanks,’ and doesn’t do anything after that, then it’s all going to be for naught,” Nelson said. “I mean, the biggest waste of taxpayer dollars.”

Even though SLO County supported the grant that will eventually get used to pay for the cleanup effort, it seems like that’s about all the commitment it wants to give right now.

I think the real issue is that Santa Maria residents live within eyesight of the riverbed, services in Santa Barbara County (including the grocery store) are closer to the homeless residents in the riverbed, and so Santa Maria is adversely impacted by the encampments. SLO County isn’t.

Why would SLO County commit to spending taxpayer dollars on something that isn’t a political problem, even if it is a jurisdictional one? Even if the counties share responsibility in the situation.

If one county is feeling the political pressure and is therefore more willing to take steps to address it, why wouldn’t SLO County just pass the buck? m

Hot Stuff

ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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. KleinDance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.

A COMEDY OF TENORS A fast-paced, hilarious farce set in 1930s Paris. The play, written by Ken Ludwig, revolves around one hotel suite, four tenors, two wives, and three girlfriends, all set against the backdrop of an impending concert in a soccer stadium filled with eager fans. Through March 24 my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN

DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. ongoing Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.

LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE:

WEST COAST SWING Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45 p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 832-884-8114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.

MARCH MADNESS BOOK SALE The Friends’ Library Shop on the second floor of the Santa Maria Town Center across from Rock ‘n Jump is having its March Madness Sale. Buy one ($3 or less), get one free (equal or lesser value; does not include children’s books). March 16 11

LANDSCAPE LIBATIONS

Art Spot on Wheels hosts its next Painting in the Vineyard event at Vega Vineyard and Farm in Buellton on Sunday, March 17, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Participants of the workshop will spend the afternoon painting a landscape and tasting wine. Entry to the program is $89. Visit artspotonwheels.com for more details. Vega Vineyard and Farm is located at 9496 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton. —Caleb

a.m.-5 p.m., Every 8 days, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., March 17 11 a.m.-5 p.m., March 18 , 11 a.m.5 p.m., March 19, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., March 20 11 a.m.-5 p.m., March 21 , 11 a.m.-5 p.m., March 22 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and March 23 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 805-925-7116. fsmpl.gov. Santa Maria Town Center, 142 Town Center East, Santa Maria.

TO-GO KITS: SPRING DECOUPAGE

BOOKMARKS This kit includes everything you need to create a unique decoupaged bookmark. Kits will be available for pick-up at Orcutt, Los Alamos, and Cuyama branch libraries beginning March 18. For ages 18 and up, while supplies last. March 18 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

VALLEY READS BOOK CLUB The Valley Reads is a monthly book club for adults featuring coffee, snacks, and lively discussion. The book selection for March is The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley. March 16 2-3 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

CALIFORNIA’S CHANGING LANDSCAPE: THE WAY OF WATER Featuring more than 20 large-format documentary inkjet photographs of the Golden State, this timely exhibition showcases George Rose’s recent expansive documentation of California’s dramatic water story. Through July 8 California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, calnatureartmuseum.org.

PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT VEGA VINEYARD AND FARM Spend the afternoon sipping delicious wine and capturing a beautiful landscape on canvas. March 17 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $89.

805-325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Vega Vineyard and Farm, 9496 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton.

SPRING INTO 2024 Gallery Los Olivos presents three distinct artistic voices: Ginny Speirs, Patricia Watkins, Felice Willat. An award-winning photographer, oil painter, and jewelry artist share the spotlight at the venue. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through March 31 805-6887517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

TODDLER TIME ART PLAY GROUP This is a class for parents and kids to have fun together while meeting new friends and enjoying the art studio in a designated time and structure. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. through March 26 $35. 805-325-8092. artspotonwheels.com/events/toddlertime-art-play-group/. Art Spot on Wheels, 320 Alisal Road, unit 306B, Solvang.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

THE COMEDY OF ERRORS Prepare to double the laughter and mischief as AGHS Theatre Company proudly presents Shakespeare’s timeless classic. An uproarious tale of mistaken identities, farcical misunderstandings, and madcap adventures. March 14 , 7-9:30 p.m., March 15, 7-9:30 p.m. and March 16, 7-9:30 p.m. $10-$15. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/ shows/aghs-theatre-the-comedy-oferrors/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

GRAVE MISTAKES Book editor Ray’s chances of courting writer and housemate Molly get pushed to the backburner when the duo’s landlord teams up with a ghost hunter and plots to kick his two tenants out in order to transform their home into a horror-themed tourist destination. Through March 16 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

calendar running from SLO County through northern Santa Barbara County.

events online by logging in with your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account at newtimesslo.com. You may also email calendar@newtimesslo.com. Deadline is one week before the issue date on Thursdays. Submissions are subject to editing and approval. Contact Calendar Editor Caleb Wiseblood directly at cwiseblood@newtimesslo.com.

ZEPHYR: A WHIRLWIND OF CIRCUS BY CIRQUE MECHANICS Inspired by the power of wind and the ingenuity that goes into harnessing it, Zephyr is an emotive and exhilarating tale about the choices humans have made regarding our planet and its resources, told through circus acrobatics, mechanical wonders, and a bit of clowning around. March 19 7 a.m.-9 p.m. and March 20, 7-9 p.m. $36-$62. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/cirque-mechanics/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

UBU’S OTHER SHOE STAGED READING: CONSTELLATIONS This spellbinding, romantic journey begins with a simple encounter between a man and a woman. What happens next defies the boundaries of the world we think we know—delving into the infinite possibilities of their relationship and raising questions about the difference between choice and destiny. March 15 -16, 7-8:30 p.m. and March 16 2-3:30 p.m. $15-$25. 805-7862440. slorep.org/shows/constellations/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo. ADAM PARKER SMITH This exhibition will feature several works made throughout the artist’s career as sort of a mid-career retrospective. Adam Parker Smith has a unique ability to address complex themes in a whimsical, light-hearted way that makes his work incredibly accessible. March 16 -July 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/adamparker-smith/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

ART OF LIZ MARUSKA: AWAKEN TO BEAUTY Immerse yourself in a place held together by breathtaking sunlight and sparkling water. Discover a stunning painting and awaken to the wonder of art. Connect with beauty through Liz Maruska’s

exhibition at SLO Provisions’ Art After Dark reception held Friday, March 1. Through March 31, 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Free. 805-4394298. SLOProvisions.com. SLO Provisions, 1255 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BARRY GOYETTE: MULBERRY For his exhibition at SLOMA, San Luis Obispobased artist Barry Goyette shows a series of portraits taken by a very specific mulberry tree as a site for portrait photography guided by the models, of varying stages of life. Through June 3, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/ exhibition/barry-goyette-mulberry/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

BEACON ART SHOW 2024 A nearly monthlong exhibition. Fridays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through March 24 Free. SLO United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks St., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-7580.

COBI MOULES: SHOWERING OF SPARKLY BITS Cobi Moules’ paintings feature queer bodies at play, exuding agency and abandon. Symbolizing queer joy, they transcend boundaries, obscuring the landscape as a backdrop to their pleasures. Moules reimagines 19th century Hudson River School landscape painting as queer spaces of desire and belonging. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through March 15 Free. 805-5463202. cuesta.edu/student/campuslife/ artgallery/index.html. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

CREATIVITY DAYS WITH THE SILK ARTISTS OF CALIFORNIA CENTRAL

COAST These are not “classes” as there is no formal teaching (although there is lots of sharing and learning). It’s an opportunity to work on your own projects with your own materials while picking up new skills among friends. Third Monday of every month $3; first session free. artcentralslo. com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-747-4200.

FLOWER POWER: INTRO TO INK AND INKTENSE WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM

Receive step by step instruction for creating beautiful floral greeting cards using Strathmore mixed media cards, black ink, and vivid colored Inktense pencils. Beginners are welcome and no experience is necessary. March 17

12:30-3:30 p.m. $40 per person. 805-4782158. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

HALF-DAY WRITING WORKSHOP SLO NightWriters presents a half-day workshop for writers of fiction, creative nonfiction, memoir and poetry. Presentations include “Words and Music: Using Poetry and Music in Fiction,” “Writing Memoir,” “Building an Author Platform: Your Brand, Your Website, and Social Media.” Join in person or on Zoom. March 16 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $25 (members); $50 (non-members).

SLONightWriters.org. Chandler Hall, UCC San Luis Obispo, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo, 805-544-1373.

HEADLINER STEVEN ROGERS Presented by Bootleg Standup. March 20 7 p.m. my805tix.com/. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-2337.

JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART

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

LEAH ROSENBERG Rosenberg works across artistic media to spark new experiences of color. Using painting, installation, printmaking, sculpture, performance, and video, she invites viewers to consider how color can be perceived both multi-sensorially and multi-dimensionally. Through April 1. 805-543-8562. sloma.org. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

PAINTING THE COASTAL LIGHT WITH PASTELS WITH JIM TYLER In this twoday workshop, attendees will complete a larger, more complex painting; start with a wet underpainting technique to provide a rich glow. This is an instructor-led class with iterative demonstrations each step of the way. All experience levels are welcome. March 15 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and March 16, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $170. 805-7482220. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

Wiseblood

PHOTO COURTESY OF ART SPOT ON WHEELS

Strawberry Festival

Reach thousands of attendees in the festival’s program!

THE REBOOT PRESENTS SPEAK EASY A special, curated variety show with host Rocky Ross, featuring local talent telling true personal stories, song, spoken word, and “Impromptu Pudding” open mic for audience members to tell 99-second stories. Limited seating; come early. March 22 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-203-6301. facebook.com/the.reboot4u. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

SPANISH SPEAKING POTTERY CLASS

(6 WEEKS) Looking for a fun way to learn Spanish? Join Dana Fiore and Shevon Sullivan. The class’s wheel-throwing teachers are bilingual. Guests don’t have to be fluent, just willing to try. Clay and firing included. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through April 22 $225. anamcre. com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AQUARIUS 2024 Central Coast Watercolor Society’s annual juried exhibit features a wide array of watermedia art from experimental to traditional. Meet the artists at the opening reception on Feb. 25, 2 to 4 p.m. when awards will be presented. Through April 1 Free. ccwsart. com/aquarius-2024-show. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, 805-772-2504.

CRAFT ARTIST JARI DE HAM Jari de Ham began Chinese brush painting in 2002. This artist enjoys capturing the Central Coast’s cypress trees with their irregular balance, foggy atmosphere, fish, birds, and many other subjects. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through March 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. 805-772-9095. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

MACRAMÉ DRIFTWOOD PLANT HANGER

NEVER SHINE IF YOU DON’T THROW

BOOK YOUR AD BY: April 12 PUBLICATION DATE: April 18

WORKSHOP Enjoy a macramé plant hanger workshop. Includes all materials, wine, and a plant. Make driftwood wall plant hangers with locally collected driftwood and natural cotton cord. Taught by Lindsey of Tied + True Goods. March 16, 4-6 p.m. $55. tiedandtruegoods.com. Rising Tides Morro Bay, 560 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay, 805-712-9139.

PHOTOGRAPHER GRANT KREINBERG

Kreinberg: “I favor nature and the outdoors of Northern California. I live in Northern California, and I’m always looking for a new road or a new area to explore.” Gallery is open daily. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through March 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. ongoing 805-772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

SANDRA SANDERS: ACRYLIC PAINTINGS In Sanders’ words: “The stress of life just seems to go away while I’m painting a beautiful seascape or a snowy mountain scene. I hope you enjoy looking at them as much as I enjoyed painting them.” Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.5 p.m. through March 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

DIVE INTO SILENCE: SPRING RETREAT Usher in spring with awe-inspiring views and the opportunity to make big changes in your perspective on life. March 14 , 4-10 p.m. and March 17 8 a.m.-1 p.m. $320. 805-736-6528. sunburst.org/silence/. Sunburst Retreat Center, 7200 CA-1, Lompoc.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

2024 TREASURES SALE Selling memorabilia, seasonal items, antiques, jewelry, household items, kids items, and more. Proceeds benefit the ongoing preservation efforts for the Guadalupe Historical Museum. Cash, checks,

The Central Coast Senior All Star Basketball Spectacular will be held at Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria on Saturday, March 23, from 5 to 9 p.m. Senior girls and boys from northern Santa Barbara County and southern San Luis Obispo County will compete in the games, sponsored by the Kiwanis of Santa Maria Valley. Admission ranges between $5 and $10. Call (805) 264-1523 for more info. Allan Hancock College is located at 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria. —C.W.

and Venmo accepted (sorry, no cards). At the Red Barn, 1065 Guadalupe St. March 16, 10 a.m. Varies. Townwide, Guadalupe.

BOUNCING BABY STORY TIME Explore pre-literacy skills through music, movement, and visual stimulation, and promote a healthy bond between baby and caregiver. Learn, connect, and grow with other babies and caregivers. For ages 0-12 months. This program runs approximately 30 min. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. through April 10 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

DOG MAN AFTERNOON Celebrate the release of the new Dog Man book with awesome games and activities. March 20 4 p.m. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:309:30 a.m. 805-937-9750. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.

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

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

LET’S BLOW OFF SOME STEAM Come to a special story time that encourages curiosity and exploration. Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math themes will be explored through stories and discovered through hands-on activities. Come dressed for mess. Ideal for younger children, but all ages welcome. March 14 4 p.m. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT Sing, dance, play instruments, and move to the beat. Develop motor skills and listening skills while having fun. Ideal for younger children, but all ages welcome. March 18 11 a.m. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its meeting on the third Saturday of each month. For more information, follow on Facebook at Bishop’s Peak EGA or visit the EGA website. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 16 Free. egausa.com. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach, 805-773-4832.

FREE INTERNET SAFETY WORKSHOP Crime Prevention Specialist Brandy Swain, of the SLO County Sheriff’s Office, presents information on cyber-bullying, internet safety, and texting and cell phone safety. This is not appropriate for kids under 13. All minors must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older. March 20, 6-8 p.m. Free. 805-481-7339. Boys and Girls Clubs of South San Luis Obispo County Clubhouse, 1830 19th St., Oceano, bgcslo.org.

HOPE FOR THE HOMELESS GOLF

TOURNAMENT 2024 Visit site for more info on this special fundraiser golf tournament to benefit 5Cities Homeless Coalition. March 23 7 a.m.-1 p.m. my805tix.com/. Pismo Beach Golf Course, 25 West Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

SPIRITUAL BUT NOT RELIGIOUS CLASS In the last several decades, survey data shows that more and more Americans are describing themselves as SBNR: “spiritual, but not religious” This workshop will take a lighthearted but engaging look at spirituality, religion, and how to create a life of meaning. March 17, 12:15-2 p.m. Love offering. 805-345-0832. unity5cities.org. The Victorian, 789 Valley Rd., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

POETRY FOR SELF CARE Looking for a new form of self-expression? Poetry facilitation is the use of poetry to promote well-being. Workshop participants will be introduced to a poem and explore their reaction through writing or illustration with guest facilitator Dot Winslow. Registration is required. March 17, 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/departments/ library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA MARIA COIN CLUB: MONTHLY

MEETING Coin collectors of all ages invited. Bring coins for free appraisals. Third Wednesday of every month, 7 p.m. Yearly membership: $20$25. 805-937-3158. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

SECOND ANNUAL FUN IN THE SUN WALK & ROLL A 1.5 mile loop to benefit Momentum WORK Inc.’s inclusive workforce programs. Note: this event takes place in the city of Santa Barbara. The loop starts at Chase Palm Park. Visit website for more details. March 16 9:30 a.m. 805-566-9000. momentum4work.org. Momentum WORK, Inc., 3070 Skyway Drive, suite 104, Santa Maria.

SMV HISTORY PRESENTS: JAPANESE COMMUNITY PAST AND FUTURE A free presentation at the Santa Maria Historical Museum. Come hear about the prominent Japanese families who helped develop the Santa Maria Valley. March 23 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 805-922-3130. santamariahistory.com. Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum, 616 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY BELLY DANCING BASICS Delve into fundamental techniques, including isolations, shimmies, and undulations, while emphasizing proper posture and body awareness. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, an experienced instructor will guide you through each step. Come once or every week. Mondays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. through March 25 $22 drop in; or $120 for all six weeks. 805-6190989. empoweryoga805.com/events. Empower

BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. 559-905-9274. theartofsilence.net.

Online, San Luis Obispo.

BOARD PRESIDENT/CHAIR ROUNDTABLE (FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS) Spokes roundtables are facilitated, peer networking, and problem-solving opportunities with a hallmark of confidentiality. Participants introduce themselves and share some good news and/or something that’s “keeping them up at night.” They may also offer a “spotlight topic” for discussion during the course of the session. March 21 12-1 p.m. $10; free for Spokes members. spokesfornonprofits.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.

CELEBRATE WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH WITH A LIVING HISTORY TOUR When you enter the iconic doors of the Julia Morgandesigned Monday Club, docents will take you back to the 1920s and ‘30s. You’ll learn about the intersecting lives of early pioneer club members and their connection with Julia Morgan. March 18 1-4 p.m. TheMondayClubSLO. org. The Monday Club, 1815 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-541-0594.

CENTRAL COAST POLYAMORY Hosting a discussion group featuring different topics relating to ethical non-monogamy every month. Third Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

DOCENT TRAINING FOR OLD MISSION SAN LUIS OBISPO Dan Krieger will present the origins and special history of Mission San Luis Obispo in the morning. Docents will conduct demonstration visitor tours of the church and grounds. Lunch provided. To register, contact Mission San Luis Obispo Docents. March 16, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. 805-550-7713. Parish Hall (Mission San Luis Obispo), 751 Palm St., San Luis Obispo.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 17

FIVE CITIES PISMO BEACH AAUW

PRESENTS WOMEN IN HISTORY

Historical women of the past, including Dorothea Lange, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Julia Morgan, and Hattie Caraway, will explain their roles in history at a Five Cities Pismo Beach AAUW meeting at Mesa Dunes Mobile Home Club House, at 265 Mesa View Arroyo Grande. All are welcome. March 16, 10-11:30 a.m. Free to public. 805-627-1845. fivecitiespismobeach-ca-aauw.net. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.

GALA PRIDE AND DIVERSITY CENTER BOARD MEETING (VIA ZOOM) Monthly meeting of the Gala Pride and Diversity Center Board of Directors. Meets virtually via Zoom and is open to members of the public. Visit galacc.org/events to fill out the form to request meeting access.

Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. No admission fee. galacc.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT

GROUP A safe place to share life experiences with those who have depression or have had and recovered from the devastating effects of depression. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free.

805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

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

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION

(ONLINE) Zoom series hosted by TMHA.

Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions

Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.

MISSION PLAZA MARKET At the Mission Plaza Market, you’ll have the chance to explore a wide variety of stalls offering unique products. Discover hidden gems and support local businesses while enjoying the company of fellow enthusiasts. The market will also feature live music. March 16 11 a.m.-5 p.m. No entry fee. 805-540-1768. eventbrite.com.

Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo.

PLUG-IN TO LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION

Get inspired by local action, connect with others, and discover more ways to get involved with the SLO Climate Coalition. Attend virtually or in-person. Sustainable snacks and childcare will be provided.

Third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. Ludwick Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, San Luis Obispo.

PUPPY SOCIAL HOUR Puppies (10 weeks to 5 months old) will learn appropriate play style with other pups, acceptable manners with people, tolerance for gentle restraints, confidence with the approach of friendly strangers, and more. Saturdays,

AYE TO ACORNS

In conjunction with the San Luis Obispo Seed Library, the San Luis Obispo Library presents Oaks and Acorns, a talk with Jesse Trace, in the community room on Saturday, March 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. Trace will discuss local oaks and acorns. Guests will have the chance to take home some seeds. Admission is free. Call (805) 781-5991 or visit slolibrary.org. The library is located at 995 Palm St., San Luis Obispo. —C.W.

9 a.m. and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. $25. 805-543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/ training/. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

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

Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

QI GONG FITNESS ONLINE Qi Gong is a gentle but powerful way to strengthen body, mind, and spirit. Great for balance. Instructor: Gary West, through Adult School, San Luis Coastal Unified School District. An online class. Wednesdays, 9:35-10:35 a.m. through May 22 $90. 805-549-1222. ae.slcusd.org/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SECOND ANNUAL SLO COUNTY BEAVER

FESTIVAL A celebration of beavers, with music, beaver expert speakers, family-friendly activities, and food. Includes featured speaker Leila Philip, author of “Beaverland.” Live music by Cuyama Mama and the Hot Flashes, and Elliot Johnson Band. Local organizations will share materials about efforts to protect the environment and celebrate biodiversity. March 23 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. 805-464-1255. slobeaverbrigade. com/beaver-festival-2024/. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo.

SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A good core group of friends who gather to discuss topics we love/ care about from movies, outings, music, or being new to the area. We come from all walks of life and most importantly support each other. Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. sloqueer.groups.io/g/ lezbfriends. See website, San Luis Obispo.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+

AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks

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

TEDX SAN LUIS OBISPO:

DETERMINATION Unlock your boundless potential. Embrace the power of determination and learn life-changing strategies for success. Determination means never giving up and always trying your best no matter how hard something is. March 14 , 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $34-$117. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org/events/detail/ tedxslo24. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 805-5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, 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.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE DINNER

St. Patrick’s Day Fundraiser by Kiwanis of Santa Maria Valley. With corned beef and cabbage, with potatoes, carrots, roll, and horseradish. Live music by Riptide Big Band, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. March 17 $20. 805-720-6711. my805tix.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

BUELLTON’S WINE AND CHILI FESTIVAL

Attendees are encouraged to bring their best green attire to celebrate this year’s festival taking place on St. Patrick’s Day. As part of the live entertainment, the Firedance Irish Dancers will be performing.

March 17 Flying Flags RV Resort, 180 Ave. Of The Flags, Buellton, 805-688-3716.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO

TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head

Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages.

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

coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave, Lompoc.

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.

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.

SHAKE YOUR SHAMROCKS No cover. Features drink specials, food specials, live DJ from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and more. March 17, 6 a.m. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-9343777, rooneysirishpub.net.

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.

TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER

Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check

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

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. RON MILLER LIVE Enjoy live music from Ron Miller. Visit site or call for more details. March 22 6-9 p.m. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY DUMPLING MAKING CLASS WITH SICHUAN KITCHEN Join Chef Garrett of Sichuan Kitchen SLO for his famous dumpling making class. He will be sharing his passion for Sichuan cuisine as you learn the art of making dumplings. Mix, season, and wrap your way to a delicious feast. Vegan option included. March 21 6-8 p.m. $50. 805-481-7339. bgcslo.org/ events. Boys and Girls Clubs of South San Luis Obispo County Clubhouse, 1830 19th St., Oceano.

LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE

50TH ANNIVERSARY A family-friendly celebration of the 50th anniversary of Little House on the Prairie with a special dinner and presentation by Wendy Lou Lee (who played the role of Baby Grace). Dinner will be served. Tickets required. Ages under 13 get in for free. March 16, 5:30-8 p.m. $25. 805-489-1259. saintjohnsag.com/dinner/. St. John’s Lutheran Church, 959 Valley Rd., Arroyo Grande.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

JOIN 805 CHARCUTERIE AND KELLYTOWN FOR A ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION 805 Charcuterie and Kellytown band join forces for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Come hear pub music along with charcuterie and special Irish fare. March 17 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-260-9204. 805charcuterie.com. 805 Charcuterie, 3546 Skyway Drive, suite F, Santa Maria.

LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

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.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY DANCE PARTY AND KIWANIS FUNDRAISER Includes live music from the Riptide Big Band and accompanying vocalists. Purchase tickets from My 805 Tix. Dance funded by the Community Foundation of SLO County. March 17, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $20 per meal; family pack for $75. 805-7206711. RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria. 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.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

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

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

LOS DE LA TUBA CHICOTEADA With Grupo Eco Se Santa Barbara. Enjoy live Latin music. For ages 18 and over. March 15, 8 p.m. $25. my805tix.com. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714.

LOS DOS GRANDES DE LA SIERRA

Enjoy live Latin music. March 22 8 p.m. my805tix.com/. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714.

NOCHE DE BANDA A night of Latin karaoke with KJ Yow and dance music by DJ Kazanova followed by live Banda and Grupo music. March 23 , 8 p.m. my805tix.com/. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

EASTON EVERETT A singer-songwriter known for acoustic guitar music with an independent and adventurous sound. March 16 5-7 p.m. eastoneverett.com/. Mulligans Bar and Grill, 6460 Ana Bay Road, Avila Beach, 805-595-4000.

KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY Enjoy some good food and karaoke. Fridays, 5-8 p.m. 805-723-5550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo.

RESINATION LIVE Come enjoy the Central Coast’s premiere reggae band for a night of dancing and more. March 16 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Ribline by the Beach, 395 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN IRELAND Get ready to be transported to the Emerald Isle as the explosive sound of bodhrán, fiddles,

MUSIC continued page 18

uilleann pipes, guitar, and dancing feet roar through the theater. This treat for the whole family features multi-instrumentalists from the Kerry Traditional Band, guest singers, and dancers. March 16, 7-9 p.m. $35-$50. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter. org/shows/st-patricks-day-in-ireland/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

CAL POLY ARAB MUSIC ENSEMBLE WINTER CONCERT

Highlights of the concert will include a suite of instrumental and vocal pieces celebrated across Arab society, a Romanian folksong and Ottoman Turkish dance piece. Critically acclaimed guest artists will return to join the ensemble on stage. March 16 , 7:30 p.m. $20 general; $10 students. 805-7564849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/ame/. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY BAND AND ORCHESTRA FESTIVAL FINALE

CONCERT The capstone for the festival, produced in collaboration with the San Luis Obispo County Band Directors Association, is the Cal Poly Wind Orchestra and Wind Ensemble’s concert of works for concert band. March 15, 7:30 p.m. $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/winds/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY CHOIRS’ WINTER CONCERT: TRADITIONS 100 alumni of Cal Poly’s choral program from the last 40 years will be co-conducted by Professor Emeritus Thomas Davies and Scott Glysson, who will also conduct Cal Poly’s four choirs on the program: University Singers, PolyPhonics, Chamber Choir, and Cantabile. March 17 3 p.m. $15 and $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/choirs/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO A vibrant South African ninemember vocal ensemble. Since 1987, these African troubadours have traveled the world with the uplifting, polyrhythmic harmonies of their homeland. March 19 7:30-9 p.m. $36-$59. 805-756-2787. calpolyarts.org/20232024-events/ladysmith.

Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

LIVE MUSIC AT KROBAR Enjoy live music at Krobar, which showcases local, talented artists of all music genres. Kick-off your weekend right, grab your favorite seasonal craft cocktail, and vibe to the sounds of the night. Follow on Instagram to find out who is playing. Every other Friday, 6-9 p.m. and Every other Saturday, 6-9 p.m. through March 30 Free entry. 833-5762271. krobardistillery.com/events. Krobar Craft Distillery, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

LIVE MUSIC AT LIQUID GRAVITY Check social media and calendar for weekly updates. Fridays, 6-9 p.m. and Saturdays, 2-5 p.m. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, San Luis Obispo.

LIVE MUSIC FROM GUITAR WIZ BILLY FOPPIANO AND MAD

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

MELODIOUS FUNK AT LINNAEA’S CAFE Melodious Funk plays classic jazz and funky fusion. In the patio (weather permitting). March 15 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Linnaea’s Cafe, 1110 Garden St., San Luis Obispo, 805-541-5888, linnaeas.com/.

PROM RE-DO DANCE A timeless journey with a live band and food. Dress to impress. All styles of partner dance music represented. March 16 6-11:45 p.m. $45. 805-904-7428. nexusslo.com/event-details/nexus-prom-re-do. Nexus SLO Ballroom D.C. (Inside the SLO Public Market), 3845 S. Higuera St. #B-1, San Luis Obispo.

ST. PATTY’S DAY WITH THE RAGGED JUBILEE For ages 18 and over. March 17 3 p.m. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843, slobrew.com.

YÄCHTLEY CRËW March 16 7 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600, fremontslo.com.

YOUNG JAZZ SCHOLARSHIP CONCERT The San Luis Obispo County Jazz Federation is privileged to showcase the 2024 winners of its “Young Jazz” music scholarships. March 17, 4-5:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Mount Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE A rockin’ blues dance party at Niffy’s Merrimaker every first, third, and now fifth Wednesdays. The Blues Asylum house band welcomes local, visiting, and newcomers to the blues groove. Spirits, beer, and wine, with outside food welcome. Every other Wednesday, 7-10 p.m. Free. 805-235-5223. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos.

BRASS MASH AT OLDE ALEHOUSE: ST. PATTYS DAY SPECIAL Visit site for tickets and more info. March 16 6 p.m. my805tix.com. The Olde Alehouse, 945 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos, 805-439-1466.

EASTON EVERETT A singer-songwriter known for acoustic guitar music with an independent and adventurous sound. An instrumental guitar soloist and evocative vocalist with a performing background in folk, country, jazz, and rock. March 15 , 5-8 p.m. eastoneverett.com/. Kickers, 885 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, 805-225-1769.

ST. PATRICK’S DAYTIME PARTY WITH DIRTY CELLO March 17 2-5 p.m. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, 805-225-1312, thesirenmorrobay.com/. m

ARTS BRIEFS

Chumash Casino Resort hosts live readings with medium Tyler Henry

Popular medium, reality show star, and author Tyler Henry will give psychic readings at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez during two live programs, slated for Friday, March 15, and Saturday, March 16, at 8 p.m. both evenings.

The event is titled An Evening of Hope and Healing with Tyler Henry. According to press materials, the medium is widely known for his work on the Netflix series Life After Death with Tyler Henry and the E! Channel’s Hollywood Medium with Tyler Henry

In 2015, Henry gained notoriety after giving a psychic reading on an episode of the popular reality show Keeping Up with the Kardashians Henry authored his first memoir, Between Two Worlds in 2016, and a second book, Here and Hereafter: How Wisdom from the Departed Can Transform Your Life Now, in 2022.

Labeled as shy and reserved during his youth, Henry has stated that he began developing his clairvoyant abilities at age 10, according to press materials.

Tickets to either of Henry’s two upcoming appearances at the Chumash Casino Resort range between $59 and $89. An Evening of Hope and Healing, which includes live readings and an interactive Q-and-A, is described as an opportunity to see Henry connect with his audience and share his ability with as many people as possible.

For more info on the event and other upcoming programs hosted at the Chumash Casino Resort, call (805) 686-0855 or visit chumashcasino.com. The resort is located at 3400 Highway 246, Santa Ynez.

Valley Reads

Book Club highlights

The Authenticity Project: A Novel

The Santa Maria Public Library holds its next Valley Reads Book Club meeting on Saturday, March 16, from 2 to 3 p.m. The monthly group’s selected text for March is author Clare Pooley’s The Authenticity Project: A Novel

The book’s plot involves a green notebook that brings together six strangers and leads to unexpected friendships and romance. The novel is described as exploring themes of authenticity, life purpose, and identity formation.

While admission to the Valley Reads Book Club is free, attendees are asked to RSVP with the library’s reference desk at (805) 925-0994, Ext. 8562. The group is intended for adults to discuss various featured books over coffee and snacks. Visit cityofsantamaria.org/services/departments/library for more details. The Santa Maria Public Library is located at 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. m

Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

St. Patrick’s stars

Firedance Academy showcases Irish dance at Buellton Wine and Chili Festival

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

By the time March 17 rolls around each year, Firedance Academy director Alanna Callaghan is geared up for the local school’s busiest day.

For several years before starting the academy— which hosts Irish dance courses and holds showcases throughout the county—in 2019, Callaghan already struggled with setting aside any spare time around St. Patrick’s Day.

“Honestly, I don’t think I’ve been free to actually enjoy St. Patrick’s Day my entire life,” the awardwinning dancer and instructor estimated. “From 4 years old to 31, it’s my biggest work day.”

Enrolled in Irish dance classes since early childhood, Callaghan was 16 when she discovered her calling and started teaching courses herself. As a kid, she’d spend each St. Patrick’s Day dancing in at least one holiday-themed performance. Her eventual transition to dance instructor barely altered this yearly tradition.

“We don’t really relax or put our feet up or anything until after the holiday,” Callaghan said. “It’s the week after that we take some time off.”

In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day this year, Firedance Academy’s Santa Ynez youth chapter will perform some Irish dance pieces at the Buellton Wine and Chili Festival. This marks the school’s first appearance at the annual festival, slated for Sunday, March 17, at the Flying Flags RV Resort and Campground.

Firedance Academy is among the live entertainment at the festival, where attendees will sample entries from dozens of participating wineries, breweries, and chili and salsa chefs.

While Callaghan founded her school in Santa Barbara in 2019, she started its Santa Ynez chapter during the summer of 2023 at the Maverick Saloon, where she teaches weekly Irish dance classes for adults and children. The Buellton Wine and Chili Festival will feature a group of dancers between the ages of 4 and 14 enrolled in lessons at the Maverick.

“These kids have been dancing less than a year,” Callaghan said of the young group set to perform a 45-minute recital at the fest. “They learn pretty fast, they like to practice a lot, and they’re really inspired by Irish dancing.”

Callaghan coordinated two specific choreography showcases for this St. Patrick’s Daythemed occasion, she explained.

“One they’ll do in soft shoes, which are kind of like ballet type shoes,” Callaghan said, “and the other they’ll do in hard

Green day

The Buellton Wine and Chili Festival takes place on Sunday, March 17, from noon to 4:30 p.m., at the Flying Flags RV Resort and Campground, located at 180 Ave. of the Flags, Buellton. Visit buelltonwineandchilifestival.com for more info.

As part of the festival’s live entertainment lineup and in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, Firedance Academy will host performances of live Irish dance with its Santa Ynez-based youth group. For more info on the local dance school based in Santa Barbara, visit irishdance805.com.

shoes—kind of like tap shoes.”

Before finalizing the Maverick Saloon as her Santa Ynez Valley-based venue for Irish dance classes, Callaghan briefly dabbled in an outdoor alternative.

“I did start my classes just teaching on an open basketball court out in Buellton,” the instructor said. “But it got pretty hot during the summer.”

While Callaghan is a prolific competitive dancer in the realm of Irish dance and accumulated several regional and international accolades over the years, including a 2016 world champion title, she clarified that Fireside Academy is a noncompetitive school.

“I decided to open a noncompetitive school, so my kids are not versed in competition. We don’t do the crazy wigs, fake tanner, and costumes,” Callaghan said. “We’re mostly performancebased and about spreading the joy of Irish culture through music and dance.” m

Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood is looking for fourleaf clovers. Send lucky charms to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHUMASH CASINO RESORT

SONIC YOUTH: Firedance Academy originated in Santa Barbara in 2019 and currently hosts Irish dance courses for youth and adults in Santa Barbara, Goleta, Santa Ynez, and Ojai.

FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BUELLTON WINE AND CHILI FESTIVAL

CLOVER FIELD: This year’s annual Buellton Wine and Chili Festival falls on St. Patrick’s Day, inspiring the festival’s organizers to reach out to Fireside Academy, which specializes in Irish dance, to provide live entertainment at the event.

LUCKY CHARMS: Irish dance instructor and Firedance Academy founder Alanna Callaghan’s (top row, center) group of students—who meet weekly for lessons at the Maverick Saloon in Santa Ynez—will perform a showcase at the Buellton Wine and Chili Festival on St. Patrick’s Day.

COURTESY PHOTO BY JARED NELS

Murder in the Mediterranean

Creators Heidi Cole McAdams and Mike Weiss helm this Agatha Christie-style mystery set on a restored vintage ocean liner touring the Mediterranean Sea. When a murder occurs, famed detective Rufus Cotesworth (Mandy Patinkin) and his quasi-protégé, Imogene (Violett Beane), must sort through the ship full of suspects to find the killer. (Ten 40- to 52-min. episodes)

Glen: We’re experiencing a golden age of television, with production values rivaling theatrical filmmaking. This series is a case in point, with a terrific cast and incredible sets. A 10-part series like this can really take its time to fully develop characters and tell a labyrinthine story with lots of twists, turns, and layers. Our protagonist, Imogene, is a complicated character. As a child, she watched her mother explode in a car bombing and was taken in by the once-wealthy Collier family, who’s trying to salvage their business by making a deal with the Chun family. This luxury cruise through the Mediterranean is supposed to be the grease that seals the deal, but then one of the boorish guests—Keith Trubitsky (Michael Gladis)—is murdered in his room after having a run-in with Imogene, setting in motion this complicated whodunit. I love that every single one of the many characters is morally compromised in some way.

Anna: Childhood trauma certainly has become a theme in entertainment these days, and Death and Other Details rides that wave too. Imogen is inherently distrustful of basically everyone, and she’s dead set on finding the identity of her mother’s murderer all these years later. Unfortunately, this beautiful ship is full of distractions, from Cotesworth—who Imogen harbors ill feelings for after he failed to solve her mother’s murder—to hunky Jules (Hugo Diego Garcia), whose seemingly devious actions prove to be for

DO THE RIGHT THING

What’s it rated? R

When? 1989

Where’s it showing? The Palm Theatre in SLO on March 16 and 17 (1:30, 4:15, and 7 p.m.), and March 18 (7 p.m.)

Writer-director Spike Lee ( Jungle Fever Malcom X, BlacKkKlansman) scored an early hit with this twice Oscarnominated dramedy about race relations in the BedfordStuyvesant section of Brooklyn. Mookie (Lee) works as a delivery man at a pizzeria owned by Salvatore “Sal” Frangione (Danny Aiello), and on the hottest day of the summer, racial animosity bubbles over, resulting in violence.

It’s a deft piece of filmmaking with an amazing cast of characters, many of whom break the fourth wall to express racist insults. Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee, Giancarlo Esposito, John Turturro, Rosie Perez, Samuel L. Jackson, and John Savage are a few of the notable cast members. Lee’s father, jazz musician Bill Lee, wrote the score, and the film’s memorable soundtrack includes Public Enemy’s anthem “Fight the Power.”

Upon its release, critics Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert

a noble cause. All of this swirling around the Chun/Collier deal, with the uncaught murderer on board and a dozen other goings on, means chaos for all. I like a mystery series like this, and this one is stylistically appealing as well. The ship is beautiful, the people are beautiful, and there is an intriguing mystery going on to boot!

Glen: It’s a stylish mystery in an exotic setting, and Beane’s Imogene is a compelling protagonist who comes off as both resourceful and vulnerable. Vacillating between confidence and insecurity is no easy trick, especially in contrast to Cotesworth, who proudly flaunts the mantle of world’s greatest detective. As both characters’ backstories unfold, we discover everything isn’t as it seems, and in a startling reveal, Imogene’s world is shaken to its core. I definitely didn’t see it coming. I thought this was a miniseries, but the ending clearly set up more to come. If it gets greenlit for production, I’d keep watching.

Anna: They’re definitely wanting a season 2 of Death and Other Details, and I’m not complaining! They set up Imogen with more

HEAT WAVE: Radio DJ Mister Señor Love Daddy (Samuel L. Jackson) dedicates a song to a slain neighborhood fixture in Spike Lee’s classic 1989 film, Do the Right Thing, screening at The Palm Theatre in SLO.

ranked it as the year’s best film and later complained when it didn’t win an Academy Award, but others criticized the film for its potential to incite race riots. Lee, in a 2014 interview, commented, “That still bugs the shit out of me,” because it suggested a Black audience couldn’t restrain itself. It’s an

mystery to resolve, but the series also managed to give us some answers. I personally will miss Jere Burns as Llewellyn Mathers, the Colliers’ attorney with a penchant for pain. There are plenty of kooky characters, but his was especially fun, and his snide remarks were often scathingly brilliant. They’ve found a winner in Beane. She fits the bill of many mystery novel protagonists brought to the big screen. From her straight blond bob and her signature style to her knack for being just around the corner while an important (and private) conversation is going on, this character is built for intrigue. The final episode follows Imogen to a snowy locale, and that’s where the final scenes play out. I’ll be interested to see if season 2 picks up at the same moment or if we find Imogen in a new mysterious setting. I’m also looking forward to seeing how they continue to use Patinkin’s Cotesworth—the actor is clearly having fun in the role. m

New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

incendiary piece of filmmaking, and an early example of Lee’s outsize talent. (120 min.)

—Glen

CAN I TELL YOU A SECRET?

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2024

Where’s it showing? Max

Three women recount their ordeal involving an online stalker who seems to be out to destroy their lives. All three have a very active social media presence that gets infiltrated by a mysterious figure who will go to mind-boggling lengths to torture his victims. The women were all inundated with threatening messages that proved relentless.

The police were uninterested in helping, dismissing the women as having overactive imaginations. But when one of the women is able to hunt down a name, Police Constable Kevin Anderson starts to unravel a much larger web of victims. Matthew Hardy had been caught stalking before, and it seems he was back at his old tricks.

Cutting between interviews from old classmates of Matthew, the growing pool of victims, and the police who

ANTI-SOCIAL MEDIA: Three women’s lives are upended by a prolific stalker who infiltrates

did take the case seriously, this series spells out the crimes of a man who never quite learned how to be in society and who took his ability to find information about his victims to the extreme. Done in two parts, this series is a cautionary reminder that the life we share online can easily be stolen and used against us. (Two 51-min. episodes) m —Anna

CLASS ACT: Amateur detective, Imogene Scott (Violett Beane, left), and her rich benefactor, Anna Collier (Lauren Patten), are embroiled in a murder mystery on a refurbished vintage ocean liner, in Death and Other Details, streaming on Hulu.

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL PICTURES

their social media accounts, in Can I Tell You a Secret?, streaming on Netflix.

THURSDAY, MARCH

TUESDAY, MARCH

FRI-SUN, MARCH

Family Day at the Dallidet

SUNDAY, APRIL 7

Dallidet

SATURDAY, MARCH

SATURDAY, MARCH

Adobe & Gardens, SLO

FRIDAY, MARCH

SATURDAY, MARCH

WEDNESDAY, MARCH

SATURDAY, MARCH

FRIDAY, MARCH

SATURDAY,

WEDNESDAY, MARCH

SATURDAY,

SUNDAY, MARCH

SATURDAY, MARCH

SATURDAY, MARCH

TUESDAY, MARCH

FRIDAY, MARCH

SATURDAY, MARCH

Brass Mash at Olde Alehouse: St. Pattys Day Special

The

Alehouse, Los Osos

15-24 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

I Only Have PIES For You...

14 Bramble Pie Company, Atascadero

Downtown Wine District Industry Party

19 Derby Winery, Paso Robles

Josh Heimendinger: JTS Brown Improv Workshop

16 Central Coast Comedy Theater, SLO

By The Sea Productions

Presents: Talk Radio

22-24 545 Shasta Avenue, Morro Bay

Improv Comedy Show with Special Guest Josh Heimendinger

15 The Hub, SLO

Steven Rogers Presented by Bootleg Standup

19

Ancient Owl Beer Garden, Atascadero

Steven Rogers Presented by Bootleg Standup

20 Libertine Brewing Company, SLO

Improv Comedy Student Showcase: JTS Brown Class

16 Linnaea’s Cafe, SLO

Hope for the Homeless Golf Tournament 2024

23 Pismo State Beach Golf Course, Grover Beach

Victoria Bailey with The Martins

MARCH 16 Templeton Mercantile

Ikebana: Japanese Flower Art

MARCH 23 River View Park, Buelton

Resination @ Rib Line by the Beach

16 Rib Line by the Beach, Grover Beach

Kiwanis Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner

17 Mussell Senior Center, Santa Maria

Terrarium Workshop at SLO Cider Co.

23 SLO Cider Co.

Improv Comedy Show: Queer Comedy Show

23 Linnaea’s Cafe, SLO

Coastal Wine & Paint Party

23 Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, Cambria

The Bikini Bottom Rave and Drag Show

22 Libertine Brewing Company, SLO

Los De La Tuba Chicoteada & Groupo Eco de Santa Barbara

15 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Division 13, Lotto RPG, Dedfones, & Wasted Elders

20 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

When cabin fever strikes, as it did for countless locals who sheltered in place during the pandemic, it’s natural to fixate on a new hobby or two. For one Orcutt couple, more time at home led to the creation of Woven Coffee Roasters.

“I was sitting at home during COVID and she kind of just said, ‘Why not?’” said Pearce KramerMontaño, who co-owns Woven with his wife, Sarah. “Her response to everything—the roasting and the shop—was, ‘Well, everyone loves coffee, why wouldn’t it do well?’”

Over the course of about a year, Pearce gradually mastered the

Dream weavers

art of coffee roasting at home for family and friends as a hobby. Sarah encouraged him toward starting a wholesale business in 2021— eventually supplying beans to coffee shops in Culver City, Catalina Island, and other areas—and later a mobile coffee shop, which the couple began operating in pop-up fashion at spots in Orcutt and Santa Maria near the end of 2023.

The couple considered opening a stationary location, but their trailer’s daily docket makes them feel like they’re already running one, Pearce explained.

“As it turns out, having a really consistent schedule and just a few locations, you kind of become a brick-and-mortar,” Pearce said, “because people get associated with your schedule.”

Woven Coffee Roasters keeps fans updated on its whereabouts via social media, but the mobile cafe’s schedule has remained mostly consistent from week to week.

Pearce and Sarah usually park their trailer at the Marian Medical Center heliport on Mondays; the Santa Maria Way Community Health Centers back lot on Tuesdays; the Santa Maria YMCA on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays; and in Old Town Orcutt on Thursdays.

While the majority of their interactions with customers through the mobile coffee shop’s pickup window consist of handing out hot and iced lattes and other sweet treats, the couple enjoys conversing about all things coffee. They hope their patrons walk away feeling “a connection to their coffee source,” similar to the feeling of trying wine at the vineyard it’s sourced from or in the company of its winemaker, Pearce explained.

“It’s kind of like wine. I compare

it to the California wine industry. People love it so much because you can go to the farm and you can see the grapes on the vine, and you can see people making it,” Pearce said. “They have a very strong connection

to their wine source, but most people here don’t have a connection to their coffee source. … We want to show people different coffees and show them the process.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF WOVEN COFFEE

ORDER UP: The two priorities of Woven Coffee Roasters are to make amazing drinks and make people’s day better, according to the Orcutt-based company’s owners.

Woven Coffee Roasters sources its direct trade coffee, in unroasted seed form, from small family farms in Nicaragua and Ethiopia. During his childhood, Pearce became fascinated by different coffees from around the world thanks to his father, a coffee enthusiast. The apple didn’t fall far from the tree.

“Something about coffee roasting always appealed to Pearce,” said Sarah, a coffee fan in her own right who previously worked as a barista for a few different coffee shops and hoped for a while to start her own venture someday.

“I’ve always loved coffee,” Sarah said. “It’s always been a dream of mine to have my own place.”

While Pearce spearheads coffee roasting at Woven, Sarah makes some of the company’s flavored syrups from scratch herself. The two tag-team on baking pastries—including banana

muffins and Oreo brownies—to sell alongside a plethora of beverage options at their popups. Woven occasionally collaborates with local bakeries to sell additional baked goods as well.

The company’s drink menu includes Americanos, cortados, cappuccinos, teas, and multiple variations of flavored lattes. Sarah’s personal favorite customization is a simple double shot of espresso with cream, which Pearce usually enjoys as well, minus the cream.

“My palate has really gotten used to our espresso, so I like just a double shot or a drip. I just like the taste of coffee,” Pearce said. “But if I was going to get something sweet, the Spanish latte would be my go-to.” m Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood is a coffee being. Send hazelnut creamer to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.

THE MILKY WAY: The most frequently ordered latte at Woven Coffee Roasters is its Spanish latte, made with espresso, milk, sweetened condensed milk, and cinnamon.