Sun, May 18, 2023

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Los Olivos is hosting its 17th annual Jazz and Olive Festival this June, showcasing that there’s more to Santa Barbara County than wine. The Rotary Club event helps raise funds to support local causes and dishes up loads of chef curated olive-themed food, capping it all off with local vintners and multi-Grammy Award-winning jazz singer Denise Donatelli. Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood speaks with the festival’s new chair about what to expect for this week’s Eats feature [25]

This week, you can also read about what’s happening with the oil pipeline upgrade proposal denied by the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission [4]; the school districts getting state to provide better mental health help to students [6]; and A Doll’s House: Part 2 at SLO Rep [22]

Camillia Lanham editor

To celebrate the fruit for which Los Olivos was named, the local rotary club is getting ready to host the Los Olivos Jazz and Olive Festival in June.

• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara), U.S. Sens. Dianne Feinstein and Alex Padilla and 12 other California members of Congress urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to prioritize completing the designation process for the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary off the Central Coast, according to a May 10 statement from Carbajal’s office. The Department of Commerce formally moved the proposed sanctuary into the designation phase in November 2021, and the public scoping process was completed more than a year ago. In a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, the California lawmakers emphasized the potential benefits of the 7,670-square-mile sanctuary, including ecological and biological protections for California marine life, the values of recognizing the Native American stewardship of the coastal waters, and the $1.7 trillion coastal economy that supports a wide range of industries in California. “It is crucial that this momentum toward designation continue[s] without delay,” the lawmakers wrote, according to a statement from Carbajal’s office. “You have an opportunity to address multiple administration priorities at once.

The Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary will establish protections for a biologically diverse and ecologically productive region. … Designating this area as a marine sanctuary would ensure we continue to be good stewards of these natural resources, while maintaining sustainable access for commercial and recreational fishing.”

• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla and several other senators reintroduced legislation to expand protections against election interference during the ballot counting and certification processes, according to a May 10 statement from Padilla’s office. Election administrators have often been the subject of threats and abusive behavior. The Protecting Election Administration from Interference Act would expand protections for election administrators by extending existing prohibitions on intimidating or threatening voters to include election officials engaged in ballot counting, canvassing, and certifying election results; strengthening protections for federal election records and election infrastructure to stop election officials or others from endangering the preservation and security of cast ballots; and providing judicial review for election records by allowing the Justice Department to ensure compliance with election record requirements. Padilla said that while protections exist for voters, additional protections are needed for workers and volunteers responsible for counting and certifying ballots. He added that stronger measures are also needed to protect against efforts to undermine legitimate election results. “As Republican-led state legislatures continue to promote the Big Lie, we have a duty to protect election workers and administrators against the persistent attacks that undermine the secure and nonpartisan administration of our elections,” Padilla said in the statement. “We must take action to protect our democracy and the integrity of the voting process from start to finish. Congress must provide increased protections for our election workers and the preservation of election records.”

• Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that his revised budget proposal will include $492 million in funding to help protect Californians from ongoing flooding impacts in the Central Valley and throughout the state, according to a May 11 statement from the governor’s office. The one-time funding will support at-risk communities, including those in the Tulare Basin, respond to the impacts of this year’s winter storms and better withstand future flooding. Newsom’s May budget revision invests $290 million in new flood proposals— which is on top of his January proposal of $202 million in flood investments to protect urban areas, improve levees in the Delta region, and support projects in the Central Valley, bringing total investments to nearly $500 million. “California is facing unprecedented weather whiplash—we just experienced the driest three years on record, and now we’re dealing with historic flooding. Our investments must match this reality of climatedriven extremes,” Newsom said in the statement. “We’re committing even more resources to support communities up and down the state as they continue responding to the impacts of this year’s storms.” m

Pacific Pipeline appeals county Planning Commission’s denial of safety valve proposal

A project to install safety valves on the pipeline that caused the 2015 Refugio oil spill will make its way to the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors after Pacific Pipeline Company filed an appeal to a recent Planning Commission decision.

County planning staff initially approved the project in August 2022, giving previous pipeline owner Plains Pipeline L.P. the go-ahead to install 16 new safety valves on pipelines 901 and 903. The pipes run from the Gaviota Coast to the Los Padres National Forest, and Plains said the project would help it comply with a state mandate (AB 864) requiring oil operators to install the best available technology on pipelines in the coastal zone, according to previous Sun reporting.

The Gaviota Coast Conservancy, the Tautrim family, and Grey Fox LLC appealed that decision in September due to concerns about the pipeline restarting. During its March 1 hearing, the Planning Commission directed staff to find other options for further environmental review. However, during the follow-up hearing on April 26, commissioners voted to uphold the appeal, citing health and safety concerns, Gaviota Coast viewshed obstruction, and outdated permits from the 1980s.

On May 8, the Pacific Pipeline Company, a subsidary of ExxonMobil, appealed that decision, stating that it is inconsistent with county zoning ordinances and violates state law requirements.

“Although the Planning Commission acknowledged that the severity of a potential future oil spill would be minimized through installation of the proposed [16] new valves, it speculated, without any evidence in the record, that oil spills ‘may still occur’ as a result of the upgrade project,” the appeal documents stated. “Such speculative conclusions … [were] in error and constitute an abuse of discretion.”

Ana Citrin, an attorney representing the Gaviota Coast Conservancy, told the Sun that she was very pleased with the Planning Commission’s vote and hopes that the Board of Supervisors will uphold the decision.

“When confronting a multi-billion-dollar corporation, I think there’s always concerns that they will take some maneuver to try and change things in their favor,” Citrin said. “But I think that what we’ve seen is there’s strong leadership on the Board of Supervisors and concern about the impacts of oil and gas development.”

The Santa Barbara County Planning Commission echoed those concerns during the April 26 commission meeting. While Commissioners Larry Ferini (4th District) and Vincent Martinez (5th District) said the project itself only looked at valve replacements, not restarting operations, 3rd District Commissioner John Parke said that they should be looking at the project’s big picture and its impacts.

“It’s a tremendous responsibility, and I don’t want to make a flip decision and say this is nothing but a valve replacement. I have to think about the consequences, and one of the consequences of many that should be considered in a public debate with what happens with a restart,” Parke said.

The Planning Commission ultimately voted 3-2 (with Ferini and Martinez dissenting) to uphold the appeal and deny the project. Julie King, a spokesperson for ExxonMobil told the Sun in a statement that they disagree with the Planning Commission’s decision, and that “all criteria have been met to uphold the zoning administrator’s decision to approve the safety valve installations.”

—Taylor O’Connor

Reservoir project for Cuyama vineyard falls through

A proposal to develop more than 15 acres of new water reservoirs in the Cuyama Valley stirred division among local farmers and county officials at a recent public hearing.

During the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission’s May 10 meeting, county staff presented findings to deny the project, which would include the construction of three frost ponds at North Fork Ranch to store water for its vineyards.

The ranch is located within the Cuyama Valley groundwater basin, an area listed as “critically overdrafted” by the California Department of Water Resources. Staff determined that the site is unfit to accommodate the proposed frost ponds partly due to the overdraft conditions documented in the area.

During public comment, Andy Caldwell, executive director of the Coalition of Labor, Agriculture, and Business (COLAB), used air quotes while questioning one finding in the staff report.

“The Planning Commission finds that the proposed project is not compatible and subordinate to ‘the agricultural character’—what the heck does that mean?” Caldwell said. “Every vineyard in the region has a frost pond but

somehow the frost pond here is not subordinate to the agricultural character?”

Caldwell was referring to staff’s finding that “the proposed project is not compatible and subordinate to the agricultural character of the project area due to the size and number of reservoirs proposed.”

The three proposed frost pond reservoirs would occupy an area that totals approximately 15.6 acres and would result in groundwater losses of 31-acre-feet per year, according to the staff report. Ana Citrin, an environmental and land use attorney, reiterated that finding in response to Caldwell during public comment.

“We’ve heard ‘every vineyard has a frost pond.’ Well, every vineyard does not have 15.6 acres of frost ponds, without the clearly demonstrated need,” Citrin said. “In many ways, this project just does not make sense, and the significant impact to the groundwater basin and to biological resources are reasons why denial of this project makes sense.”

During public comment, Cuyama resident and farmer Stephen Gliessman said that future projects proposed for sites in the Cuyama Valley groundwater basin should promote farming approaches that “save water, use less water, and depend more upon what nature gives us rather than what we extract from the past, below ground.”

“As we keep saying, the big issue is water, and Cuyama historically does not have water,” said Gliessman, the owner of Condor’s Hope Ranch, a 5-acre dry farming operation in Cuyama. “Our only source of water, other than rainfall, is groundwater. There’s no pipelines. There’s no reservoirs. There’s no permanent surface water. We have to take care of that groundwater.”

The proposed project at North Fork Ranch was ultimately denied by the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission, but not unanimously.

“This commission lacks the evidence, the technical evidence, and analysis to move forward with a denial of this project,” Planning Commissioner Larry Ferini said. “Every one of these conditions seems to be dependent on saying that they’re going to be using too much water to protect their crop without really showing the relevance of how insignificant that amount of water can be in looking at the longterm averaging and balancing of that use.”

“This is a perfect instance of how we can differ with people we deeply respect,” Planning Commissioner C. Michael Cooney said before motioning to deny the project, which carried a 3-1 vote.

—Caleb Wiseblood

Locals celebrate Nipomo Skate Park’s long-awaited grand opening

Typically the first to roll out their boards at any skate park, childhood friends Wyatt Russell and Owen Slater took a step back on May 6 to admire the joyous scene at the Nipomo Skate Park.

Dozens of locals of all ages zipped around the 10,000 square feet of concrete peppered with quarter pipes, stairs, rails, boxes, and bowls amid the cacophonous sounds of skidding wheels and live punk music.

Now 21 and 19 years old, respectively, Russell and Slater were just adolescents when they started a campaign to lobby San Luis Obispo County to build a skate park in Nipomo. About a decade and “a billion meetings” later, that vision is now a reality.

“I didn’t think it would ever come, honestly,” a smiling Slater told the Sun at the skate park’s grand opening. “It took a lot of helping hands to get here. This wasn’t just a couple of grants. It was everybody.

“And it’s cool seeing all the youth,” he added. “Now they get to a go to a skate park, you know?”

Slater was only about 13 when he and his dad, Tom, first sold a batch of custom Nipomo

ANOTHER APPEAL: Pacific Pipeline Company appealed the Santa Barbara Planning Commission vote to deny a project to install 16 new safety valves on the pipeline that caused the Gaviota Coast oil spill in 2015.

Skate Park T-shirts to help raise awareness and funds for the fledgling project. At the May 6 ribbon cutting, Tom Slater proudly donned that original orange shirt.

“This was the start,” the elder Slater told the Sun. “You’re sitting around with a bunch of eighth graders, like what do we do?”

“We sold them to all of my friends and stuff,” his son said. “We raised about $1,000, brought it to the county, and then they were like, ‘Oh, people actually want to do this.’”

The skate park’s final price tag came out to $3.5 million, and the planning and construction process took more than five years, interrupted by funding shortfalls, COVID-19, utility realignment issues, and this winter’s brutal storms.

SLO County officials, elected leaders, and Nipomo community advocates all gathered for the skate park’s ceremonial ribbon cutting on May 6.

“What’s the No. 1 word that skaters hear?”

SLO County Parks and Recreation Director Nick Franco yelled out. “‘No!’ Right? Don’t you hear that all the time? ‘No, you can’t do this. No, you can’t do that.’ Well, this is a big, ‘Yes, you can do this.’ That’s what you wanted, and that’s what we delivered.”

Located on the southern edge of the Nipomo Community Park on Tefft Street, the skate park is easily accessible, with a spacious parking lot, bathrooms, and other facilities.

It’s already seen a huge amount of use since it officially opened on May 2, locals told the Sun turnout on May 6 affirmed that.

Guadalupe resident Salvador Sandoval, 14, paused

his skate session to share how much he loved his new “local park.” He said he doesn’t have to street skate as much now.

The younger Slater and Russell expressed their gratitude for the final product, which they also helped design. The duo shared how they spent their childhoods at an unsanctioned, makeshift skate park in town known as “The Rec” (which is now a Grocery Outlet).

“That was the place that birthed me, Wyatt, all of the OG skaters,” Slater explained. “It was super fun and taught you how to skate, but super sketchy.”

“It wasn’t legal, and it was never going to stick,” Russell added. “So it feels great to just have something that’s ours.”

While they were among the catalysts that delivered the new park, Russell noted that they weren’t alone. The broader Nipomo community identified it as a recreational need long before he and his friends did.

“I have to give credit to people before our time. It’s been in the plan,” Russell said. “The community of Nipomo made a list of things we wanted to get done, and the skate park was put on that. And that was about 20 years ago.”

About 45 minutes into the celebration, as the ribbon-cutting crowd dissipated and local band Nova Haze launched into a set of music, Russell, who’d been lurking on the periphery, began riding his board into the park.

While it didn’t arrive in time for his childhood, that won’t stop

David Ikola, M.D. Shane Rostermundt, D.O. Joseph Nunez, M.D. Dr. Michele Kielty, D.O.

Investing in mental health

Santa Barbara and SLO County school districts partner with local Medi-Cal insurance plan to increase behavioral wellness programs at school

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

Seventeen percent of Guadalupe Union School District’s seventh and eighth graders reported that they considered suicide last year.

“Students did self-reporting, they’re also reporting they are frequently sad most or all of the time,” said Angela Soares, the district’s director of expanded learning and wellness. “Just those numbers show our students are saying, ‘We need help.’”

Citing the district’s recent results from the California Healthy Kids Survey on student mental health, she said that 26 percent of all students experienced emotional distress and 52 percent of district staff believe mental health-related issues are a huge problem at the district.

Guadalupe Union has counselors on campuses, but there’s currently a waiting list for students to get an appointment. If a student wants outside mental health care, families would have to travel to Santa Maria—which is often a barrier for most families, Soares said.

“We are in a working-class community; sometimes when the family gets off work to take the student to a counseling session, the agency may be closed,” she said. “To have services and providers in our district and our town, it takes one thing off the families’ plate to be able to get the support they need.”

To address gaps in the system, Guadalupe Union and eight other districts in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties will partner with CenCal Health—the local Medi-Cal health insurance plan—for the Student Behavioral Health Incentive Program (SBHIP) in order to strengthen the behavioral health infrastructure in public schools, said CenCal’s chief customer experience officer and chief health equity officer Van Do-Reynoso.

“We will be working with six local education agencies in Santa Barbara County and three in San Luis Obispo County to improve the infrastructure so there’s improved coordination of behavioral health services for students,” Do-Reynoso said. “We’re looking at staffing, infrastructure, and the capacity so students can get the sustainable behavioral health services they are going to need— not just the students but supportive services for families as well.”

Along with Guadalupe Union, CenCal is partnering with Carpinteria Unified, Cuyama Unified, Lompoc Unified, and Santa Maria-Bonita school districts and the county Office of Education in Santa Barbara County; and Lucia Mar Unified

and San Luis Coastal Unified school districts and the county Office of Education in SLO County.

Created by the California Department of Health Care Services, SBHIP will serve Medi-Cal students from transitional kindergarten through 12th grade and ensure that every child receives behavioral health care.

“It’s specifically focused on Medi-Cal students because we know Medi-Cal students might have more structural barriers to health access than others. This is an effort to build systems that will support Medi-Cal students,” Do-Reynoso said.

The state Department of Health Care Services allocated $389 million over three years for this program as part of Assembly Bill 133—which strives to establish a more equitable and preventionfocused approach to health care, Do-Reynoso said. For the first two years, CenCal’s nine participants will receive SBHIP dollars and then the districts would bill Medi-Cal, similar to insurance claims.

“There’s coordination of services, and I think that’s really important. We’re emphasizing [that] SBHIP will impact the students and schools because we are taking an upstream approach by addressing early intervention, by early screening and a referral system,” she said. “We’re acknowledging behavioral health is critical for our youth, and we need to address it for wraparound services so our youth can thrive.”

SBHIP launched in January 2022 and districts started conducting assessments and focus groups to collect initial data to inform the areas they needed to tackle.

“The systemic needs we identified were universal screenings, tiered interventions, information for adults, and developing a closed-loop referral system, and … ensuring a medical billing procedure is put in place,” Do-Reynoso said.

School districts often don’t have money that is earmarked for mental health alone, said Frann Wageneck, co-owner of Flux Coaching and Consulting. Creating this program is a step in the right direction because districts have often had to get creative with their general funds or their Local Control and Accountability Program funding in

order to support mental health services at schools.

“Of course it’s not without concerns because there’s a lot of work that goes into building those systems [so] that they serve youth in the right way and don’t overburden people who are already overburdened with responsibilities,” Wageneck said.

Wageneck worked as an outside consultant to help identify districts with the highest number of students who were eligible for Medi-Cal and later worked with them on an individual basis to help create plans that would address their mental health needs, she said.

“Santa Maria-Bonita is the largest district in the county; Cuyama Unified has 123 students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade. They are going to have very different plans for how we need to roll out their services and create their programs,” Wageneck said. “That was the beautiful thing of working with each district.”

All participating districts reported depression and anxiety as the main mental health issues students faced, with substance use disorder as a secondary issue for older students, she said.

“That’s where the uniqueness of each district comes in. In some areas there really was a need for increasing parental support so we have plan initiatives or interventions focusing … on increasing in family support and education [through] social workers, family advocates, or a promatora to help support not just students at the school but families as well,” Wageneck said.

Guadalupe Union plans to set up a family navigation team made up of a social worker or promatora that will reach out to families and ensure they are connected to social services, community organizations, and other resources that aren’t solely mental health focused, Guadalupe Union’s Soares said.

Along with a family navigation team, Guadalupe

Union will establish universal screenings to help refer students to appropriate care, provide mental health first aid and trauma informed staff training, and expand its behavioral wellness programs, she added.

“We’re currently in the process of selecting a universal screener that all students will complete, and we’ll have a screener plan in order to refer students to the appropriate interventions they might need,” Soares said.

As the district looks to expand to more sites— with the recent taxpayer approved junior high school and state- and federal-funded transitional kindergarten learning facility—the district will also add a community school coordinator to coordinate and facilitate the different services throughout the sites, Soares added. The grant will fund the program for the first two years, and Soares said she hopes the insurance billing system, community partnerships and contracts, telehealth counseling services, and other grants will help sustain this program for the long term.

“In the past, the only providers at the school district that could bill for insurance were only psychologists for special education students,” she said.

With Medi-Cal’s billing system, Guadalupe Union is able to broaden its early intervention services and provide students the opportunity to get the mental health care they need, Soares said.

“The more support we bring to them with the least amount of stigma is going to be great,” Soares said. “Having students be able to see [services] on campus rather than getting checked out to go to counseling. It’s on-site and just a part of normal, daily life.” m

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

STUDENT SUPPORTERS: (From left to right) Guadalupe Union’s Outreach Consultant Jennifer Geronimo, Family Services Agency Counselor Daniel Hurtado, and School Psychologist Kayla Anderson will get additional support for student mental health care as the district joined CenCal’s Student Behavioral Health Incentive Program to expand behavioral health services.

Nero

Age: 8 years, 3 months

Breed: Labrador

Retriever mix

Sex: Male

Weight: 71 lbs.

Olivia

Age: 10 years

Breed: Domestic Shorthair

Sex: Female

Weight: 11 lbs.

Chips for charity

Sunshine Poker League brings the community together while supporting nonprofits

BY THOMAS RODDA

About five years ago, a man who goes by Donnie Sunshine moved to Santa Maria from Philadelphia and started a free local poker league called Sunshine Poker.

Sunshine fell in love with the game while playing in a Philadelphia bar league called River Chasers. He decided to start one of his own on the Central Coast as a way to cultivate a group of familiar faces, which he’d lost after moving across the country.

“Once I moved here, I missed my friends and family back in Philadelphia, so that’s what [starting a league] turned into: turning strangers into friends and friends into family,” Sunshine told the Sun. “Since my nickname was Donnie Sunshine, I figured, hey, Sunshine Poker League sounds good.”

The league started out local, hosting regular meetups at the now-closed O’Sullivan’s Pub in Santa Maria. But Sunshine broadened his horizons from there.

“Two years later, we had 24 venues,” Sunshine said. “And then COVID hit, and that kind of sucked, so that put me a little back, since my objective is to have a venue in almost every city, and every region in California.”

Today, Sunshine Poker hosts a dozen active poker leagues across the state— including in Santa Maria, Lompoc, and San Luis Obispo County. Residents interested in playing, or learning how to play, Texas Hold’em poker can attend the meetups on Sundays and Tuesdays at Rancho Bowl in Santa Maria; Wednesdays at Giavanni’s Pizza in Orcutt; Mondays at Tap and Cork in Lompoc; and Thursdays at Wild West Pizza in Lompoc.

Sunshine said that the league operates by donations and is affiliated with the Bar Poker Open organization, a larger freeroll poker group that hosts tournaments across the country.

The main purpose of the league, aside from creating a social atmosphere, Sunshine said, is to help as many people as possible. The league donates to various local charities and also hosts community food drives.

“I always say, the sky’s the limit,” he said. “My objective, literally, until the day I pass … is to help as many homeless people as possible, as many kids that have no toys on Christmas, as many pets that are stranded or strays. I want to help them out, since in Philadelphia I was homeless for a little bit.”

Sunshine Poker contributes to local nonprofit groups like Woods Humane Society, Toys for Tots, United Way, and Court Appointed Special Advocates.

“Toys for Tots hit me personally because I didn’t have toys for a long time when I was young,” he said. “My parents weren’t rich, and we lived in a village area, and they did their best, but we didn’t have money for toys.”

Sunshine will often incentivize players to donate by offering extra chips to players who make donations. For instance, the league plans host a food drive starting in May, where food banks will drop off food donation containers. Any player who donates five cans of food will then receive 500 extra chips for that night’s tournament.

Although his league does not allow real betting, Sunshine said he doesn’t recommend that individuals with pre-established gambling

disorders join his league.

Eric Goodman, a SLObased obsessive compulsive disorder psychologist, told the Sun that he imagines free poker to an individual with a gambling disorder would be like giving a nonalcoholic beer to an alcoholic.

“I’m not sure if there’s any data on that, at least not that I’m aware of, but it certainly puts them at much more of a risk for relapse than someone who goes to a tea shop,” Goodman said.

Goodman added that he believes a free poker league should only be a risk for individuals with pre-established gambling disorder risk factors.

“I should think it would be a safe, fun thing for most people,” he said.

Sunshine said that anyone—no matter their poker experience level—is welcome at the league and that it brings together a broad swath of the community.

“It don’t matter their sex, their color, their race, your beliefs, your religion, your background—I don’t care,” he said. “One thing that people in this life don’t understand is that the only thing that matters is this beating thing in your chest: your heart. That’s the only thing that matters.”

Highlights

• Marian Regional Medical Center announced the implementation of 3D Intracardiac Echo (ICE) catheter called NuvisonNAV by Biosense Webster. It’s a significant advancement in the diagnosis and treatment of abnormal heart rhythms. Cardiologists are now able to view an entire chamber of the heart, as it’s beating, in 3D, in intricate detail real-time while performing minimally invasive procedures. Brett Gidney, a cardiac electrophysiologist in Santa Maria performed this procedure for the first time using this new technology at Marian Regional Medical Center. “I’m proud to say the first-ever procedure was a success,” Gidney said in a statement. “While it may take some time for this technology to be adopted globally, Marian Regional Medical Center has been honored as the first institution worldwide to implement the new catheter in patients.”

• C.A.R.E.4Paws was the beneficiary of Santa Barbara County’s 2023 Pooch Playoffs, put on by local photographer Valerie Villa. The March Madness-style event involved the community in both voting for the favorite pooch contestant and with dozens of local businesses providing swag bags and prizes for those participating. This was Villa’s third year putting on the fundraiser, and this year she photographed 16 local dogs with session fees donated to C.A.R.E.4Paws. Over the course of a week and a half, almost 2,000 votes were cast to select the cutest canine, and Otto the Great Dane emerged as the 2023 playoff champion. This year’s playoff’s raised a record $1,564 to help pet families in need. m

New Times editorial intern Thomas Rodda, from the Sun’s sister paper, wrote this week’s Spotlight. Reach him through the editor at clanham@ santamariasun.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DONNIE SUNSHINE

FREEROLL POKER: Sunshine Poker League players pose for a group photo at a recent meetup at The Siren restaurant in El Chorro Regional Park in San Luis Obispo. Anyone is welcome to participate in the freeroll league.

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EVERY CHILD HEALTHY

UNICEF is rushing lifesaving therapeutic food to children facing extreme poverty in Yemen or potential famine in Somalia. Help us reach millions more with this low-cost miracle. unicefusa.org/WeWontStop

SÁBADO, 20 DE MAYO / SATURDAY, MAY 20th 7 PM | GUADALUPE CITY HALL | 918 OBISPO STREET

FRIDAY, MAY 19 | 7 PM

Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Rd, Goleta

SATURDAY, MAY 20 | 7 PM

Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo St, Guadalupe, CA

SUNDAY, MAY 21 | 7 PM

The Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E Cota St, Santa Barbara //

VIERNES, 19 DE MAYO | 7 PM

Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Rd, Goleta

SABADO, 20 DE MAYO | 7 PM

Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo St, Guadalupe, CA

DOMINGO, 21 DE MAYO | 7 PM

The Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E Cota St, Santa Barbara

Doors open 6:30 pm. Reception follows the performance. //

SÁBADO, 20 DE MAYO / SATURDAY, MAY 20th

7 PM | GUADALUPE CITY HALL | 918 OBISPO STREET

Las puertas se abrirán a las 6:30 pm. Habrá recepción después del espectáculo.

Las puertas se abrirán a las 6:30 pm. Habrá recepción después del espectáculo. Doors open 6:30 pm Reception follows the performance

@vivaelartesantabarbara @vivaelartesb

@vivaelartesantabarbara @vivaelartesb

Co-presented by The Marjorie Luke Theatre, the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center and UCSB Arts and Lectures, in partnership with the Isla Vista School After School Grant.

How do you think local school districts are doing post-COVID?

71% Below average. Students need increased help with academic achievement and mental health.

29% Passing grade—districts need to do more real-world prep, such as careertechnical education.

0% A-plus! Schools have been meeting students’ needs and helping them be resilient.

0% No comment. I don’t follow education issues.

7 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

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Key issues

Are projects Roomkey and Homekey helping Lompoc’s homeless?

BY RON FINK

On Nov. 19, 2021, the Santa Barbra County grand jury issued a report titled, “The keys to housing the homeless.”

In it the members of the jury make several observations/recommendations concerning the implementation of two programs to help communities manage their homeless populations: Project Roomkey and Project Homekey.

Summarizing their findings, the grand jury said, “The county has found it difficult to duplicate its successes with Projects Roomkey and Homekey. There is a discouraging lack of available property in the county, and property owners are reluctant to turn over what they have for the purpose of housing the homeless. Nor are there identified local funds to sustain the two programs without additional state and federal grant allocations.”

I don’t find it surprising that “property owners are reluctant to turn over what they have for the purpose of housing the homeless”; experiences in many jurisdictions indicate that the homeless folks currently housed in these units have little respect for the places provided for them.

A local television news report several months ago (“Homeless hotel plan ends for those in fire prone areas of Santa Barbara,” KEYT Feb. 3, 2022), concerning the end of the city of Santa Barbara’s leasing of a motel to temporarily house homeless, showed the property owners tossing all the furniture from the rooms into a dumpster, and they had to totally renovate the facility. This was after the homeless left the premises, and in other cities they literally destroyed the places that were provided for them.

Although well more than 100 rooms (beds) have been provided, it hasn’t proved adequate to handle the nearly 2,000 homeless that were found during the 2021 Point in Time Count.

One of the cities identified in the county grand jury report

that was required to respond to four specific recommendations was the city of Lompoc.

The first finding was that Lompoc needed to establish a program to provide “appropriate services, for vulnerable elderly homeless with underlying health conditions.” The city’s response was that city representatives attended meetings.

The second finding urged “city councils within the county to develop a roster of hotels and motels willing to participate in a Roomkeytype program.” The city’s response was that they attended meetings “where Lompoc provided available sites.” If the city did supply such a list, shouldn’t it be a public document so neighbors will know that these sites are under consideration?

Third was that “all city councils within the county identify possible Homekey sites including government owned properties.” The city’s response was that they prepared a Community Action Plan (CAP) in 2021.

As stated in the CAP 2021: “The program will assist with the safe opening of Lompoc facilities and programs. The program will allow for public accessed capital and program improvements to facilities such as City Hall, Anderson Recreation Center, the Dick DeWees Community Senior Center, and programs for human services. Improvements are identified as, but not limited to, the removal of structures to allow for distancing, installation of “no touch” fixtures and devices for information, sneeze and cough guards, sanitization stations, and purchase of computer software for safe business practices to deter the contraction of the coronavirus.”

The CAP 2021 plan was to provide safe public access to government facilities, not to provide housing locations in government buildings for the homeless.

Lastly, the final grand jury finding recommended “all city councils within the county develop and implement a plan for funding Roomkey and Homekey-type programs.” The city’s response was that they were participating in a plan led by the county. They also provided about a half-million in funding to address the issue.

Lompoc responded to the grand jury report in February

2022. To summarize, Lompoc participated in meetings. But meetings and unrelated plans that don’t address the issue don’t solve problems. They are only perpetual make-work, feelgood exercises that give the appearance that something is being done.

Fixing a problem that has been allowed to mutate unabated for well more than two decades by enabling many people to seemingly “drop out” of a structured environment and “live free” will take more than meetings. The county with your tax dollars currently supports ongoing “services”; the cost per each individual provided these services is $60,000 per year.

Convincing the homeless that they should contribute to society instead of waiting for the next freebie isn’t going to be easy, especially when millions of dollars are being tossed their way in the form of Electronic Benefits Transfer cards, free rooms, free meals, and tax-free cash handouts they can get on the streets. Thousands of jobs are waiting for workers, but most of the “unhoused” prefer the easy road. Speaking from experience, there is no easy road; you must apply yourself to succeed.

Has there been any progress since February 2022?

While some services have improved, the number of homeless people on the streets seems about the same, and there has been little progress in getting them out of their makeshift camps and old “campers” and into some sort of structured environment.

So, I guess more meetings might solve the problem. m

Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.

WRITE NOW!

We want to know what you think about everything. Send your 250-word letter to Sun Letters, 2646 Industrial Parkway #200, Santa Maria, CA 93455. You can also fax it (1-805-546-8641) or e-mail it (letters@ santamariasun.com). All letters must include a name, address, and phone number for verification purposes; may be edited for space or clarity; and will be posted to santamariasun.com.

Hold the Supreme Court to higher standards

Americans are losing faith in our Supreme Court, and it’s easy to see why.

The nine justices on the Supreme Court are the only federal judges not bound by a code of ethics. It’s up to the justices to self-police on ethical issues, and they want to keep it that way.

That’s why nothing happened when Clarence Thomas didn’t recuse himself from Jan. 6 cases that could have directly implicated his wife. That’s why nothing happened when America found out Samuel Alito more than likely leaked a decision about reproductive health care to anti-abortion activists. And that’s why nothing happened when it was revealed that Chief Justice Roberts’ wife has earned millions of dollars recruiting for law firms with business before the Supreme Court.

There may be times when they or family members are permitted to do something, but it should be reviewed by an impartial committee to protect the rights of our country and our citizens.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Congress has a duty to act as a check on the Supreme Court and restore faith in our judicial system. It can do that by creating a code of ethics for the Supreme Court.

The highest court in the land should be held to the highest standard. It’s time to demand that Congress hold the Supreme Court accountable.

Eileen Lussier Nipomo

JUNE - AUGUST 2022

Picnic in the Park

Picnic in the Park offers free, nutritious meals to children who receive free or reduced-priced lunches during the school year over the summer months Volunteers will hand out lunches, conduct essential meal tracking and ensure the safety of our clients.

They must commit to multiple shifts throughout the summer and undergo a brief criminal background check

June 12 - August 4 | M-F lunchtime North County

To become a volunteer: VISIT FOODBANKSBC.VOLUNTEERHUB.COM, SCAN THE QR CODE, OR REACH OUT TO KELLI PADILLA AT 805.722.5251 OR KPADILLA@FOODBANKSBC.ORG

BOOK YOUR AD BY: May 25, 2023

PUBLICATION DATE: June 1, 2023

Big Frost Opinion

Do we feel bad for a vineyard operator in the Cuyama Valley that doesn’t get to build its “frost protection” ponds anymore?

If you’re Andy “I’m With COLAB” Caldwell, yes. Does his opinion actually matter? That’s a rhetorical question.

He’s very concerned about Santa Barbara County’s mistreatment of North Fork Ranch, which some folks believe is connected with Harvard University, aka Brodiaea Inc. And, according to The Harvard Crimson, aka the university’s newspaper, the rumors are true.

But Caldwell doesn’t live in Cuyama, so he’s not dealing with the impacts of an overdrafted aquifer that caused the ground to subside in the recent past. He’s probably also on the side of Big Carrot—yes, that’s an actual thing (cue dastardly music)—which sued everyone who overlies the Cuyama Valley Groundwater Basin over the water rights it believes it’s losing because of the state mandates forced on basin users as part of the State Groundwater Management Act.

You see, the whole problem with being labeled a “critically overdrafted” basin is that basin overliers are now required to take steps to mitigate that overdraft. For all the laymen out there, that means everyone needs to cut back on their water pumping as part of an official plan. And I don’t think that 15 acres of aboveground “frost protection ponds”—aka reservoirs—that will pull more than 30 acre-feet of water per year out of the groundwater basin just in case Harvard needs to prevent springtime growth from getting frost-bitten quite fits in with the whole conserve-water ethos that Cuyama (apart

from Big Carrot) is trying to project right now. There are other ways to protect vines from frost, you know. Things like where you plant, how you prune, and wind machines or heaters—although the latter two do use energy so greenhouse gases might be an issue. Eesh. And the first two take forethought.

Caldwell tried to cherry-pick from the staff report to make his point.

“The Planning Commission finds that the proposed project is not compatible and subordinate to ‘the agricultural character’— what the heck does that mean?” Caldwell said during the commission’s May 10 meeting. “Every vineyard in the region has a frost pond.”

Well, you see, if the Sun, aka “the media,” were to use a quote like that, it would be referred to as something that was taken out of context. What the staff report actually said was that “due to the size and number of reservoirs proposed,” the project isn’t compatible with the “agricultural character” of the area.

What does the agriculture part of COLAB mean anyway? Big Ag? Or local ag? Because Caldwell seems to be siding with the big over the local.

Must be nice to be able to just pick and choose the parts of quotes you need to support your points—even if the facts and context of those quotes don’t support your points.

This whole frost pond discussion has been happening for at least four years, so what’s next? I feel an appeal coming on. And why not? Harvard’s got the resources to keep it moving forward. I’m sure the Board of Supervisors can’t wait. m

The Canary is sick of Big Mouths. Send your two cents to canary@santamariasun.com.

SLOFunny Comedy Show

SATURDAY, MAY 27

Veteran’s Building, Morro Bay

The Mighty Cash Cats (Johnny Cash Tribute)

SATURDAY, MAY 20 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Kathryn Loomis & Co. and SLO High School Honor Jazz Band

SUNDAY, MAY 28 Pismo Beach Veterans’ Hall

Yoga /Hike to the Lighthouse

SUNDAY, MAY 21

Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

Community Chorale: Fascinatin’ Rhythms

SUNDAY, MAY 21

Community Presbyterian Church Cambria

Women Making Waves: Breaking Waves of Wellness

SATURDAY, MAY 27 Magee Park, Carlsbad

Viva La Cerveza: SLO Beer & Taco Festival

SATURDAY, MAY 27 Madonna Meadows, SLO

Symphony of the Vines: Baroque Jubilation

SUNDAY, MAY 28 Mission San Miguel Arcángel

SLOFunny Comedy Gym Monthly Showcase

SUNDAY, MAY 28 Central Coast Pizza, Los Osos

UnPaquito Mas Productions: Laugh Therapy Stand-Up Comedy

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31 Maverick Saloon, Santa Ynez

Vocal Arts Ensemble: Welcome to Summer Concert Trilogy, Nipomo: THURSDAY, JUNE 1 CPAC, Cuesta: SATURDAY, JUNE 3

Hot Stuff

BAIRD NECESSITIES

Nashville-based musician and Orcutt native Pryor Baird will perform during a special fundraiser concert on the roof deck of Toyota of Santa Maria on Friday, May 19, at 5 p.m. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast. Call (805) 354-7421 or visit centralcoastkids.org. Toyota of Santa Maria is located at 1643 S. Bradley Road, Santa Maria.

—Caleb Wiseblood

ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

ARTISTIC SELF ART STUDIO For adults ages 50 and over. Bring your art projects and supplies and work on them in a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere with other artists. This is a drop-in program. Wednesdays, 9-10 a.m. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925-0951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE

CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 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.

COOKIES AND CHAPTERS BOOK CLUB

Each month will feature a new chapter book for children. Free copies of the book will be provided on a first come, first served basis. May 20 11 a.m. 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. 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/.

FIRST DATE: BROADWAY’S MUSICAL

COMEDY This musical gleefully pokes fun at the mishaps and mistakes of blind dates and gives hope that there could be that one perfect moment. Through May 28 my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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, 6:308:15 p.m. 805-344-1630. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, 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.

TEEN ANIME CLUB Teens who are interested in anime or manga, come to Anime Club and hang out with other fans, eat Japanese snacks, and do fun activities. New members are always welcome. May 19, 4:30 p.m. 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Shepard Hall

Art Gallery - Santa Maria Public Library, 421 South McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

THE NOT SO STILL LIFE: OIL PAINTINGS BY PATTI ROBBINS Patti Robbins’ works are “a celebration of the natural world” and her use of color and form creates a sense of depth and emotion that is both striking and inspiring. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through May 31 805-6887517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

SEDGWICK RESERVE: A

CONSERVATION STORY Through Oct.

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

FLOWER CITY BALLROOM COMEDY

NIGHT Headliner Key Lewis is a “high energy, improvisational, storytelling, multiple-personality nutcase.” May 19 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

POURING MY HEART OUT Explore the world of fluid art and beyond in this exhibition by central coast artist Christine Jeszeck. Through May 25 Free admission. 805-737-1129. Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc, lompocart.org.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BENCH BASICS: RIVET RING

WORKSHOP Learn how to bend, form, texture and rivet metal to create a stunning sterling silver or brass rivet-ring. May 19, 10 a.m.-noon $75. 805-752-1188. theavilagallery.com/classes/. Studio Avila, 66 Landing Passage, Avila Beach.

EMBROIDERERS GUILD OF AMERICA

The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its monthly meeting. For more information, follow on Facebook or visit the EGA website. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 18 Free. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach, 805-773-4832.

THE PROM Four eccentric Broadway stars are in desperate need of a new stage. Captures all the humor and heart of a classic musical comedy with a message that resonates with audiences now more than ever. May 25 , 7-9 p.m., May 26 7-9 p.m. and May 27, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. $10-$15. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter. org/shows/aghs-theater-company-theprom/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

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

SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE FINAL

PROBLEM Sherlock Holmes’ skills are put to the test when he goes head-tohead with his intellectual equal, criminal mastermind Professor Moriarty. After repeated attempts on his life, Holmes is rejoined by his recently married friend Dr. Watson and the two attempt to thwart the Professor’s plans Saturdays, 2-4 p.m. and Wednesdays-Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. through May 20 $30-$36. 805-4892499. americanmelodrama.com. Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

STRAWBERRIES THROUGH GROVER BEACH CELEBRATION Features music, food, drink (including beer garden), local vendors, dance performances, giveaways, and free yoga. May 20, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Grover Beach Amtrak Station Parking Lot, 120 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, 800-872-8745.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

THE BOOK OF MORMON The New York Times called it “the best musical of this century.” The Washington Post wrote, “It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.” And Entertainment Weekly wrote, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” May 18 , 7:30-10 p.m. and May 19, 7:30-10 p.m. $75-$125. 805756-6556. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, pacslo.org.

ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES

Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus exposure to Los Angeles talent agents.

All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers

a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters.

Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

ART EXHIBIT: LUMINOUS EXPRESSIONS

An exhibit of pastel paintings by members of the California Central Coast Pastel Society (3CPS). Meet the artists during a reception on May 6 at 3 p.m. Through July 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/gallery/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ART EXPLORATIONS FOR TEENS WITH SPENCER COLLINS In this class series, students learn about drawing and acrylic painting. Each class students will recreate a famous piece of art from history. Topics include: Joan Miro, Claude Monet, Frida Kahlo, and Piet Mondrian. Ages 11-17. Every other Thursday, 3:304:30 p.m. through June 22 4 classes for $100 or 1 class for $30. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART

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

CAL POLY STUDENT VOCAL RECITAL A free recital presented by Cal Poly Music Department student vocalists. May 25 7:30 p.m. Free. 805-756-2406. music. calpoly.edu/calendar/. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing 805-8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. INTERMEDIATE OIL PAINTING: ADULT ART CLASS This class is for students who

may have tried oil painting in the past but are looking to advance their skill levels. Color theory and proportion study will be a focus in the class. Mondays, 2-5 p.m. $30 per student or $75 for 3 classes. 805747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INTRO TO OIL PAINTING WITH SPENCER

COLLINS The perfect class for those wanting to try oil painting for the first time. Guests discuss color theory, layering paint, and how to use various media. For ages 16 and over. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $30 per class or $100 for 4 classes. 805747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART

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

MARELA ZACARÍAS: STORYTELLING

Through July 7 San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-8562, sloma.org/.

ODDFELLOWS OPEN MIC Bring your music, improv, standup, magic, and dance talents. Each act gets five minutes. Audience votes for favorite. Third Saturday of every month, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-234-0456. Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo.

OPEN MIC COMEDY Sign-ups at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. Mondays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-540-8300. saintsbarrel. com/event-calendar. Saints Barrel Wine Bar, 1021 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com).

Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Various locations, San Luis Obispo.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF MID CENTRAL COAST

Making a Difference with Rosé

Hot Stuff

POTTERY: BEGINNING

WHEEL CLASS This series is a great intro to the pottery wheel. Students learn to throw various shapes, surface decorate, and glaze. Clay and firing included with admission. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $180. anamcre.com.

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

SCULPTURE CLASS

WITH ROD PEREZ

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

THE SECOND CITY SWIPES RIGHT: AN INCOMPLETE GUIDE TO THE ULTIMATE DATE

LUCK BE A LADYBUG

An artist reception to celebrate local artist Fred Ventura’s solo exhibition at Mystic Nature in Nipomo will take place on Friday, May 19, from 1 to 4 p.m. The exhibit, titled Nature’s Harmony, features a collection of Ventura’s digital paintings and will remain on display at Mystic Nature through Wednesday, May 31. Admission to the upcoming reception is free. Mystic Nature is located at 191 W. Tefft St., Nipomo.

NIGHT It’s love at first laugh with The Second City. Spend a naughty 90 minutes with a cast of comedians as they (consensually) annihilate everything that turns us on—and off—about love, dating, relationships, and everything else in-between the sheets. May 25 , 7:30-9 p.m. $32-$55. 805-756-6556. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, pacslo.org.

SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN MIC

NIGHT Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.”

Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-2337, libertinebrewing.com.

SLO DRAWZ: OPEN FIGURE DRAWING

GROUP Improve your drawing skills while also building a community of supportive creatives with live models. This is not a guided class, please bring your own materials. To sign up, email chantellegoldthwaite@gmail.com. Every other Thursday, 5-7 p.m. through 2023. $20 per session; or $60 for a month pass. 805-747-4200. instagram.com/slodrawz.

Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SPRING ART AND CRAFT FAIR Arts, crafts, and food vendors wanted. May 19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and May 20 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $80 per booth space. 805-441-1405. facebook.com/post66slo. Veteran’s Memorial Building, 801 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

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

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING

WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors.

To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Wednesdays, 1:303:30 p.m. $35. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo. com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

WILD ART! OPENING AND SILENT ONLINE AUCTION A benefit for Outside Now. Event features art pieces inspired by the natural world and created by artists of all ages. May 20, 6-9 p.m. Free event. 805-541-9900. outsidenow.org. Ascendo Coffee, 311 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

CEMETERY CLUB Presented by By The Sea Productions. Visit site for tickets and more info. Through May 28. my805tix.com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.

CENTRAL COAST ARTISTS COLLECTIVE Art Center Morro Bay is pleased to host this very special juried exhibit. May 20 -June 26 Free. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

FINE ART ACRYLIC PAINTINGS BY HEMA SUKUMAR California’s colorful landscapes from the water’s edge to mountaintops are a constant source of Sukumar’s artistic inspirations. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through May 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART WATERCOLORS BY ARDELLA SWANBERG Ardella Swanberg has painted her entire life. Her first awards for her art were received during high school in Garden Grove, and her travels and adventures are reflected in her paintings of various locales. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through May 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

HAND MADE LEATHER AND FIBER ART BY KRISTINA ALBION Kristina Albion has been inspired to create art, bags, wearable art, and home decor using cloth, fiber, stone, leather, paint, and more. Her pieces showcase her talents in many media. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through May 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

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

MORRO BAY ART IN THE PARK: MAY

This event was established in 1955 and is in its 68th annual year. 100 fine artists from all over California attend this event. May 27 and May 28 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Morro Bay City Park, Corner of Morro Bay Blvd. and Harbor St., Morro Bay.

MOSAIC TRIVET WORKSHOP During this workshop, you will learn how to design and create a mosaic trivet. You will learn how to select materials, lay out a pleasing pattern, and adhere the tiles to the trivet base. You will learn how to properly grout and seal your project. 1-4 p.m. $60. 805772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org/index. php/workshops/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

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

SILK DYED SCARVES WORKSHOP

Discover how to create hand-marbled silk scarves with Sharon Gellerman. Learn to create intricate patterns and vibrant colors by layering colorful dyes onto a solution of water and cellulose. May 20 1-4 p.m. $75. 805-772-2504. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, artcentermorrobay.org.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY SHOW Hosted by comedian and sportscaster Jonny Loquasto. Featuring Ellen Doyle, Cari Kabinoff, Leo Flowers, and headliner Michael Malone. May 27 6:30-8:10 p.m. $30. 805-534-3129. facebook.com/ slofunny. Morro Bay Vet’s Hall, 209 Surf St., Morro Bay.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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

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 their caregivers. For ages 0-12 months. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. through May 31 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

Cal Poly Baseball SELECT DAYS/TIMES

Robin Baggett Stadium

Cal Poly, SLO

Cal Poly Arts Presents: The Second City Swipes Right

THURSDAY, MAY 25 · 7:30PM

Performing Arts Center, SLO

Live Oak Music Festival

FULL FESTIVAL PASS

FRI, SAT, SUN, JUNE 23, 24, 25

El Chorro Regional Park, SLO

PCPA Presents: Bright Star

JULY 7–9, 13–16, 20–23

Solvang Festival Theater, Solvang

Presented

Hot Stuff

FAMILY STEAM PACK Have fun as a family with science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Program funded in part or whole by California State Library. May 20 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

FAMILY, CULTURE, AND LITERACY ACTIVITY PACKS: ALL LOCATIONS Packs feature activities which celebrate cultures from around the world, and the power of literacy while encouraging time for family connections. Program funded in part or whole by California State Library. May 27 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons. org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 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. 805-343-2455. dunescenter.org.

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

HOMEWORK HELP: SANTA MARIA

PUBLIC LIBRARY Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills. For children in grades K-6. First come, first served; no sign-ups are required. No events scheduled between April 10 and 13. Mondays-Thursdays. through May 25 Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. INA, THE SUNSHINE STORYTELLER Ina Buckner-Barnette, The Sunshine Storyteller weaves tales, movement, and song to create interactive shows. “Know Your Stories!” is a combination game show and storytelling concert focusing on animal stories. This program was supported in whole or in part by the Orcutt Friends of the Library. May 27 10:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Orcutt Library, 175 S. Broadway, Orcutt.

PAWS TO READ Reading to dogs is a wonderful way for children to gain confidence while reading aloud. These dogs absolutely love all kinds of books and are excellent listeners. Call or visit Youth services to register for a 15-minute time slot. Tuesdays, 3:30-5 p.m. through May 30 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME Story time is designed to build literacy skills and school readiness, all while having a great time. Features songs, fingerplays, and stories. For ages 3-6. Mondays. through May 22 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

PRESCHOOL YOGA STORY TIME Come for a morning of yoga with stories and breathing exercises. Children are introduced to mindfulness and will learn exercises to help regulate emotions. Space and supplies are limited. For ages 3-5. Program funded in part or whole by California State Library. May 26, 11 a.m. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY RAILWAY

HISTORICAL MUSEUM TOURS The collection includes late 1800’s-early 1900’s Engine used by the Betteravia Union Sugar Company, a 1930’s Sacramento Northern box car, and more. Fourth Saturday of every month, 12-4 p.m. smvrhm.com. Santa Maria Transit Center, Miller and Boone Streets, Santa Maria. SMVGS MEETING Visitors welcome. Contact smvgs.org for program and location info. Third Thursday of every month, 2:15-4 p.m. smvgs.org. Santa Maria Valley Genealogical Society, 908 Sierra Madre, Santa Maria.

THE STAMPEDE: 5K TRAIL RUN Get your cameras ready as the views are stunning. Includes t-shirt and gift. A portion of the proceeds go to Special Olympics. May 21 , 8-10 a.m. $40. smkiwanis.givesmart.com. Los Flores Ranch Park, 6271 Dominion Rd., Santa Maria.

COFFEE SHOP CURATION

Ascendo Coffee in San Luis Obispo presents Wild Art, an art showcase and auction to benefit Outside Now, on Saturday, May 20, from 6 to 9 p.m. The showcase includes several artworks inspired by the natural world, created by artists of all ages, which will be auctioned off, including this piece by Kolie Swavely. Admission to attend the event is free. Call (805) 345-2155 for more details. Ascendo Coffee is located at 311 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

STRENGTH AND PEACE GOLF

TOURNAMENT A fundraiser for local Veterans and Active Duty. Sponsorship and donation opportunities available. May 19, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. $100. 805-354-4559. strengthandpeace.org/golfdetails. Santa Maria Country Club, 505 W. Waller Lane, Santa Maria.

TODDLER TIME High-energy learning experience just for toddlers and their caregivers. Toddlers learn and grow through stories, movement, and music. For ages 1-3. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. through May 30 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

WFG FINANCIAL LITERACY

WORKSHOPS Registration is suggested. Tuesdays, 4 p.m. through May 30 Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria. org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

LOMPOC VALLEY BOTANIC AND HORT. SOCIETY MEETING General meeting followed by a presentation by Cal Poly assistant professor Dr. Shashika Hewavitharana, a plant pathologist who will discuss some of the most common plant diseases found in our gardens.

LVBHS is a nonprofit association and membership is open to the general public. May 21 , 2-4 p.m. Free. 805-450-3668. lvbhs.org. Stone Pine Hall, 210 South H St., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AVILA BEACH PARTY Features games, music, food, drinks, and more. May 27 1-7 p.m. and May 28 , 1-7 p.m. Free. 805-5954000. Avila Beach Golf Resort, 6464 Ana Bay Rd., Avila Beach.

BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS

AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. Starts at $70. 805-835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.

CELEBRATION FOR BETH CURRIER: 40

YEARS OF SERVICE A petting zoo and horseback riding will be offered. Young children must bring bike helmets and wear hard sole shoes if planning to ride a horse. Call for more information. May 20 1-3 p.m. 820-899-1847. Rancho De Los Animales, 2756 Green Place, Arroyo Grande, ranchodelosanimales.org.

CENTRAL COAST CACTUS AND SUCCULENT SOCIETY ANNUAL SHOW AND SALE The show features hundreds of cacti/succulents. On Sunday afternoon, there will be an auction of show-quality plants that encourages lively bidding.

May 27 10 a.m. and May 28 10 p.m. Free. centralcoastcactus.org/home/showand-sale/. Nipomo High School, 525 N Thompson Ave, Nipomo.

DANA’S SUNDAY SPEAKER: GOV.

PACHEO’S 1875 MEMORIAL DAY SPEECH

Live reenactment by Jaime Avila of Gov. Pacheo’s 1875 Memorial Day Speech. May 28 1 p.m. Free to $8. 805-929-5679. DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo, danaadobe.org.

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.

HOW TO ADU WORKSHOPS FOR ARROYO GRANDE HOMEOWNERS Join the non-profit Smart Share Housing Solutions and AG Planning staff and learn about design, permitting, finance, and construction of ADUs at these free workshops. RSVP not required. May 18 , 4:30-6 & 6:30-7:30 p.m. and May 24 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. 805-215-5474. smartsharehousingsolutions.org/ag-aduthow. Arroyo Grande Council Chamber, 215 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS

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

SCLERODERMA SUPPORT GROUP

Welcoming to all who live with scleroderma: patients, family, caregivers, etc. Learn and share in a safe, caring space. For more info, call. May 20, 11:30-1 a.m. Free. 805-459-2362. St. John’s Lutheran Church, 959 Valley Rd., Arroyo Grande.

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS

Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. 805-4816399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

YOGA / HIKE TO THE LIGHTHOUSE

Hike to the Point San Luis Lighthouse for a one-of-a-kind outdoor yoga session led by certified yoga instructor Jennifer Anderson (Intent with Jen). May 21 , 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 19

Hot Stuff

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BARS AND BOUNCE CLINIC Build whole-body strength swinging on bars and bouncing on trampolines. May 20, 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; $10 per additional sibling. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/events. Performance Athletics

Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

BATS OF CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST WITH BILL HAAS

Bill Haas will present a lecture on Bats of California’s Central Coast. The lecture will be followed by a bat walk, entailing less than two miles of walking (1 mile out and back to our starting point). Be advised the terrain will be flat/gently sloped. May 27, 7-8 & 8:30-10 p.m. $5-$20. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

BDSM 101 This monthly class from the Central Coast Kink Community provides a basic overview of kink, consent, rules, and information to help practitioners be successful and safe. Attendees must be 18 years of age or older. Fourth Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. No admission. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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

BIRDS AND BOTANY MONTHLY WALK AT SLO BOTANICAL

GARDEN The Garden is excited to present a monthly bird walk series on the fourth Thursday of every month which explores the intersection of birds and botany. Fourth Thursday of every month, 8-11 a.m. $10 for Garden Members; $40 for general public. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

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

FREE MICROCHIP CLINICS In honor of National Chip Your Pet Month, Woods Humane Society is offering free Microchip Clinics at Woods SLO. Fridays, 2-4 p.m. through May 26 Free. 805-543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

GARDEN PARTY One Cool Earth will be hosting this Garden Party, which will include children’s activities, live music, food, drinks, and a raffle to highlight local businesses. May 20 4-7 p.m. Free. 805-242-6301. onecoolearth.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A safe place for anyone suffering from the pain of depression. We do not criticize but do share our journey, feelings, and what works for us. We can meet in person or use Zoom if needed. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. 805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.

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

SCIENCE EXPLORATIONS AT SLO BOTANICAL GARDENS Join the Morro Bay National Estuary Program to learn about estuary and watershed research. This free event is open to the public and will highlight talks given by various scientists in California and the Estuary Program. Register online. May 25 , 5-7:30 p.m. Free. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo, 8055411400.

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. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually.

Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.

club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, 805-937-8110.

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

TEEN AAPI SNACK TASTING Teens, celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with lots of snacks. Learn about food trends in AAPI communities and try exciting new flavors. Program funded in part or whole by California State Library. May 26 , 4:30 p.m. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

SPRING SHOWCASE

The Cal Poly Music Department will hold its Arab Music Ensemble Spring Concert at the Spanos Theatre in San Luis Obispo on Saturday, May 27, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets to the performance are available in advance at pacslo.org and range between $10 to $20. The concert is described as appropriate for attendees ages 5 and older. Spanos Theatre is located at 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. —C.W.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 19

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA

GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics

Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/ events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

TAI CHI AND QIGONG FITNESS ONLINE

Gentle but powerful physical exercises to improve balance, posture, and overall well being. Wednesdays, 8:25-10:35 a.m. through May 24. $77 for semester. 805-549-1222. ae.slcusd.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

TAICHI AND QIGONG ONLINE With Gary West through SLO Adult School. Held Wednesdays, at 8:25 a.m. (TaiChi) and 9:35 a.m. (QiGong). Wednesdays. through May 24. $77 for semester. 805-549-1222. ae.slcusd.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN

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

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender nonconforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.

TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated emotional support group to be heard, share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like your own. Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.

TUTOR TRAINING Literacy for Life needs community members in SLO County to become volunteer tutors. Make a difference in someone’s life by helping them learn or improve their basic English language skills. Every other Saturday, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through May 20 Free. 805-541-4219. literacyforlifeslo.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

UNLOCK YOUR SUCCESS CODE: AN INTRO

TO HUMAN DESIGN Paden Hughes is an author, speaker, and coach who is obsessed (in a good way) with supporting all humans, but mainly entrepreneurs and CEO’s to find their zone of genius and unlock their unique and very specific codes for success. May 19, 4 p.m. my805tix.com. Gymnazo, 720 Aerovista Plaza, suite C, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

CENTRAL COAST SLIM DOWN Take control of food without suffering. Learn a step-bystep process to take control of overeating, cravings, and feel peace with food. Build the habits, mindset, and your unique path with results that stick. Hosted byTami Cruz (Certified Health/Life Coach) and Dana Charvet (Coach/ Fitness Trainer). ongoing Call for pricing info. 805-235-7978. gratefulbodyhealthcoaching. com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

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

SHAMANIC MORNING RITUALS FOR

VITALITY Guests are guided into intentional movement, laughter, earthing practices, and gratitude rituals while connecting with nature and the sacred Morro Bay rock. May 19, 8:309:30 a.m. my805tix.com. Beach Access Parking Lot, 102 Atascadero Road, Morro Bay.

SOCRATES: DISCUSSION GROUP Group members present interesting and thought provoking topics of all sorts. Topics are selected in advance and moderated by volunteers. Vaccinations are necessary. Enter through wooden gate to garden area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. 805-528-7111. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

WATERFRONT MARKET 2023 MEMORIAL DAY

WEEKEND EVENT The wait is finally over. The Waterfront Market is back in Morro Bay for its sixth year. May 27 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and May 28 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-402-9437. Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO

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

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

PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/

Valley.” May 20 6-9 p.m. Free. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

SONGWRITERS AT PLAY HOSTS MONTHLY

SONG CONTEST IN SOLVANG No cover charge, no entry fee. Up to 10 contestants, 2 songs each, 3 judges, 3 prizes. For ages 21 and over. May 22 , 6-9 p.m. Free. 805-204-6821. songwritersatplay.com/events. High Roller Tiki Lounge, 433 Alisal Road, Solvang.

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

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.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

CASH’D OUT LIVE May 21 , 1 p.m. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777, rooneysirishpub.net.

GARDEN PARTY Celebrate classical music at a lyrical Garden Party, while helping the Santa Maria Philharmonic stay live and local. Enjoy an afternoon of wonderful music, good company, fine wine, and great food. May 21 , 2-5 p.m. $100. 805-925-0412. smphilharmonic.org.

Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. THE HOMESTEAD: LIVE MUSIC ON THE PATIO Check the Homestead’s Facebook page for details on live music events. Fridays, Saturdays The Homestead, 105 W. Clark Ave, Old Orcutt, 805-287-9891, thehomesteadoldorcutt.com.

HONKY TONK SALOON: BENEFIT DRAWING AND CASINO NIGHT Features live music, a benefit drawing, and more. May 27, 6:30-10:30 p.m. $100. smkiwanis.givesmart.com. Santa Maria Veterans Memorial Center, 313 W. Tunnell St., Santa Maria. LINE DANCING FUN For adults ages 50 and older. Learn basic patterns and steps to some of your favorite music. This beginner-friendly class is for anyone that enjoys dancing. Wednesdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925-0951.

Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

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.

RASTA FUEGO May 27, 1 p.m. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St. Orcutt, 805-9343777, rooneysirishpub.net.

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

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.

LIVE MUSIC WITH JEFF PINE Come and see “the man with 700 songs in his head.” May 27, 7-10 p.m. Free. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine. com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

LIVE MUSIC WITH RUSTY LINDSEY

AND FRIENDS Don’t miss these talents, described as “a rare find in the Santa Ynez

THE MIGHTY CASH CATS: LIVE IN CONCERT Accommodations are a combination of standing room and some seating (first come, first serve). May 20, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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

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

LET’S HANG ON! America’s preeminent Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons tribute group. May 20, 7:30-10 p.m. $48-$58. 805-4899444. clarkcenter.org/shows/lets-hang-on/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SEVENTH ANNUAL CENTRAL COAST

UKULELE FESTIVAL Bring your ukulele and play along. Local groups performing. Food and beverage available. May 20, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free admission. 805-345-5579. Heritage Square Park, 205 Nelson St., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

2023 SPRING FOLK-N-SOAK MUSIC/HOT SPRINGS/YOGA/CAMPING FESTIVAL

Festivalgoers will be able to soak in 100 degree mineral water and camp out under the stars, enjoying the music from the pool at the hot springs. May 19 -21 my805tix.com. Franklin Hot Springs, 3015 Creston Rd., Paso Robles.

CAL POLY SPRING JAZZ COMBOS HANG

Come hang with the Cal Poly Jazz Combos in the UU Plaza for its final concert of the 2022-23 season. Performances by groups from the Cal Poly Jazz Studies program. May 19 7:30 p.m. Free. 805-756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/ calendar/. CalPoly University Union, 1 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY WIND BANDS’ SPRING CONCERT:

‘PINES’ Composers featured on the Cal Poly Wind Ensemble and Wind Orchestra’s program include Viet Cuong and Karel Husa. May 20, 7:30 p.m. $15 and $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

EASTON EVERETT SOLO Enjoy some indieacoustic, live music. Thursdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. eastoneverett.com. Big Sky Cafe, 1121 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo, (805)545-5401.

LIVE MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO. Visit Ragtag Wine Co.’s downtown tasting room to enjoy tunes from favorite local musicians. Wine available by the tasting flight, glass, or bottle. Thursdays-Saturdays, 6-9 p.m. Free. 805-4390774. ragtagwineco.com/visit. Enjoy live music by local favorites. Wine available by the flight, glass, or bottle. Thursdays-Saturdays, 6-9 p.m. Ragtag Wine Co., 779 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-0774, ragtagwineco.com.

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

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

ARTS BRIEFS

Three Righetti High School students score high at countywide poetry slam

Righetti High School sophomore Samantha McDonald (pictured, right) won first place at the Santa Barbara County Education Office’s Poetry Slam Competition in early May for her poem, “Generational Burden.”

In a press release from the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District, McDonald said she wrote her poem about “our planet and how we’re destroying it.”

“I wanted to spread awareness and get people thinking,” McDonald stated. “Would you treat your mother how you treat mother earth?”

Two Righetti High School students—junior Natalie Lancor (left) and sophomore Litzy Matematico Teran (center)—tied for second place in the countywide contest.

Local author Jill Thayer’s new book celebrates Central Coast hiking trails

Subversive story

SLO

BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

Aslammed door signals the end of a dramatic confrontation, but according to Karin Hendricks, it also signals the beginning of a new experience.

“The premise of this play is based on the writer just laughing at there even being a second part to such an iconic play,” Hendricks said. “You have this very definitive ending of the story that we get to explore in this ‘what if?’ scenario.”

Hendricks is directing a A Doll’s House, Part 2—a sequel of sorts to A Doll’s House—which features a cast including Suzy Newman, Josh Machamer, Katy Dore, and Madison Shaheen and is running at the San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre until May 21.

Play house

A Doll’s House, Part 2 runs until May 21 at the SLO Rep Theatre (888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo) at 7 p.m. Thursday through Sunday and at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. To purchase tickets visit slorep.org/tickets For more information on this production and future shows, follow SLO Rep on Instagram @sloreptheatre.

Her struggles for independence in the face of accusations of forgery and the subsequent effect it had on her marriage and children left viewers at the time—and even in the present day—appalled that a female character would even engage with such topics.

However, A Doll’s House eventually became praised as one of the first contemporary theater productions, especially with its use of a single room in which to tell the entire story, and for its positive portrayal of a Victorian-era woman’s struggle for independence.

Newman, who plays the main character, Nora Helmer, said the simple single-room set immerses her in the experience as much as it does the viewer.

“I have had people come up to me after the show and say, ‘It felt like I was peeking through the window of someone’s house,’ and that is the perfect way to describe it,” she said. “I love that feeling of having the audience feel physically close to the actors. We are looking outward and they are looking in, but it just adds something special.”

While the play would be an enhanced experience if the viewer was aware of the events of the previous first “part,” Part 2 can stand alone and adds aspects to characters that Ibsen didn’t explore fully in the original.

Nora to life.

“The writing is just so precise, and it’s a joy to just say the words,” Newman said. “You get to be eloquent and fiery, but still experience that immersion of being in that period of the late 1800s.”

Newman said she also spent a lot of time with Ibsen’s original play to learn the mannerisms and habits of Nora, who is onstage for the entire play.

“It’s like living in a book. I’m taking this ride and I just keep going and going, then all of a sudden you are at the end,” Newman said with a laugh.

She said that it was intimidating to take on the role of a character that was tied to such a heralded play, but Newman came to treat her portrayal of Nora as unique.

“I had to remind myself that despite Nora being this iconic character from Ibsen’s original, this production is meant to stand alone,” Newman said. “In a lot of ways the Nora in Part 2 is meant to be a different person because she has experienced so much away from her family after the ending of the first play.”

Both Newman and Hendricks hope that whether the viewer is new to the original piece or familiar, everyone who sees the show has a moment where they relate to the characters. She hopes that everything the production shows the audience—whether that’s witty one-liners from Nora or a dramatic tension-filled argument between other characters—will be relatable to the audience.

“Will you understand everything we put out there? Maybe,” she said laughing. “But that’s part of making an experience like this special.” m

New Times Staff Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas, from the Sun’s sister paper, is still immersed. Reach him at arosas@newtimesslo.com.

The Oceano dunes, Big Sur, and other locales along the Central Coast are highlighted in a new book, Sojourns: 100 Trails of Enlightenment Inspired by the California Central Coast by local author and photographer Jill Thayer. The book was released by Archway Publishing in late April.

In press materials, the book is described as a visual narrative in which Thayer examines her favorite trails through her own photography and explains why these particular settings are her “go-to for balance, reflection, and a bit of exercise.”

“The beauty of our region is the result of care and advocacy in land conservation and sustainability of the environment,” Thayer said in press materials. “These sacred spaces bring peace and clarity. They resonate in the mind and speak to the soul.”

In an excerpt from the book, Thayer described her trail adventures as sojourns that “quiet my mind, inspire my spirit, and broaden my understanding of the world and my relationship to it.”

Thayer described her process of developing the book as “cathartic, introspective, and fulfilling.”

“The role of photography throughout my journey allowed me to capture the beauty of the region, reflect on my experiences, and observe the healing power of nature and its enlightenment,” Thayer stated in her book. “These treks helped me realize the majestic wonder of our environment, appreciate the stewardship of the land, and awaken my presence in the moment.”

Sojourns: 100 Trails of Enlightenment Inspired by the California Central Coast is currently available in hardcover and softcover editions through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other booksellers. Visit archwaypublishing.com for more details on the book.

To find out more about Thayer and her work, visit jillthayer.com. m

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

“I probably spent more time researching Ibsen’s original play than I did researching the play we put on,” Hendricks said with a laugh. “There is no way you can direct these characters properly without understanding why they are the way they are.”

Written by Lucas Hnath in 2017, Part 2 serves as a somewhat unofficial follow-up to the original A Doll’s House written by Henrik Ibsen in 1879. It focuses on subverting what many in the audience thought would happen to main character Nora Helmer after she leaves a toxic family situation.

“The big consensus at the time Ibsen wrote the play was that Nora would suffer a lot after leaving her family in such a manner—which is the same response Hnath got from those around him when he explored the idea of writing a sequel almost 100 years later,” Hendricks said.

Part 2 takes place in a single room of a small Victorian-era house—the same room the original takes place in—designed by for the SLO Rep stage by Hendricks’ husband, Jason Bolen.

“Of course, I might be a little biased about how great his work on the stage ended up being, but I do think he highlighted how important having that small space was to making the characters more impactful,” she said laughing. “It was a lot of building up, not what was there physically on the stage, but wasn’t there and how we wanted to communicate that with lighting and other fixtures.”

Hendricks said Ibsen’s original piece was highly controversial for its time, featuring a headstrong female lead who shattered the traditional gender norms of a complacent stay-at-home wife.

“It makes sense that Nora would come back and face those issues if she thrived,” Hendricks said. “I’d hope viewers see a version of what could have been, and there is this sense of growth for all of the characters that doesn’t feel like too much of a jump from Ibsen’s original work.”

Hendricks feels the play’s dialogue is a big part of what makes the characters familiar to their Ibsen counterparts, something that Newman agrees helped her bring

Send

IMMERSIVE IMPACT: Director Karin Hendricks worked alongside her husband, Jason Bolan, to design a stage that would represent a Victorian-era house and enhance character dialogue for the viewers.

DAZZLING

DIALOGUE: While based on Henrick Ibsen’s original A Doll’s House characters, actors Suzy Newman (Nora) and Josh Machamer (Torvald) were given the freedom to add flourishes to the characters they played in A Doll’s House, Part 2.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KENNY KLEIN

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN: SLO Rep actors Suzy Newman (Nora, front right), Josh Machamer (Torvald, back right), Katy Dore (Anne Marie, back left), and Madison Shaheen (Emmy, front left) all bring Henrick Ibsen’s characters together for a subversive sequel to A Doll’s House

Rep showcases a simple set and intriguing dialogue in A Doll’s House, Part 2

Quasi-funny

Co-writer-director Kevin Heffernan with co-writers Jay Chandrasekhar, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter, and Erik Stolhanske—all part of Broken Lizard Industries (Super Troopers, Beerfest, Club Dread)—present Quasi, loosely based on Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. Lemme stars as the hapless and lovelorn hunchback Quasi, who’s drawn into a feud between the pope (Soter) and the king of France (Chandrasekhar). (99 min.)

Glen: I think Broken Lizard peaked with Super Troopers, but if you’re in the mood for an amusing stoner comedy, this might fit the bill. Quasi goes about his days getting pelted with cabbages from the townsfolk and working as a torturer in the king’s dungeon. His claim to fame? He invented the Rack. His closest friend and fellow torturer is Duchamp (Kevin Heffernan, who also plays the king’s right-hand man, Henri-Francoise). Duchamp is a loser, but at least he’s not a hunchback. When Queen Catherine (Adrianne Palicki) visits the torture chamber, she and Quasi make a connection, and the story plays out with Quasi pining for Catherine as the pope and king each urge Quasi to murder the other. It’s pretty silly, but I noticed that a few puffs off of a joint make it exponentially funnier.

Anna: It’s hard to beat Super Troopers when it comes to stoner comedy, but the folks at Broken Lizard are trying their best with Quasi. It’s groan-inducingly dumb, but like you said, a more, let’s say, relaxed state of mind brings the giggles out. I like that we have so many people playing several different roles. Even Lemme, who plays Quasi, doubles up his role, also playing the Jester. I will say, I bet these productions are a lot of fun to work on. It may be dumb comedy, but at least no one here is taking themselves too seriously. Silly quips, physical comedy, whimsical wordplay—all the things these guys know how to do in their sleep is brought on-screen. Will I ever watch it again? That’s a pretty safe “no,” but then again, a lady in her late 30s may not be the target audience.

Television Reviews

SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2022-present

Where’s it showing? HBO Max

Somebody Somewhere is back for season 2, and I’m over the moon! It hasn’t lost any of its joy, and we dive further into these characters in this slice-of-life show. Sam is struggling to deal with her mother who’s in rehab and refuses to see her, her dad who has left her to clean up the farm, and her sister who is going through a divorce and isn’t the easiest person to have around.

Life is complicated and Sam struggles with her own difficulties, one of which is her relationship with her sister. The two continue to work through their lifelong problems with each other and navigate life following the death of their sister. She has Joel though, and the two make such a lovable pair.

While Bridget Everett is wonderful, the true star for me is Jeff Hiller, whose Joel is so endearingly awkward. It’s a relatively slow-paced show, and honestly, there really isn’t a whole lot that goes on—instead this all about the relationships between these people.

QUASI

What’s it rated? R

What’s it worth, Glen?

Get a little buzzed first

What’s it worth, Anna?

Not my time

Where’s it showing? Hulu

Glen: They may be trying to channel a Monty Python vibe, another comedy troupe that plays it silly. Brian Cox is the narrator, and he opens the film by announcing the 13th century “sucked.” Indeed, it’s a brutal, backwards time, but part of the film’s shtick is to have Quasi and Duchamp talk like contemporary dudes. One of the ongoing tensions between them is that Duchamp refuses to call their relationship a friendship. Instead, he refers to Quasi as a colleague. Apparently, it’s not cool to have a hunchback as your best friend. It’s one of many subplots designed to give the thin story a little emotional heft, but the film still feels as light as a feather. You can expect to get a few laughs out of it, especially if you surrender to its inanity, but this is a pretty

DEAD RINGERS

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Amazon Prime

forgettable effort by the Broken Lizard boys.

Anna: I did laugh a bit, and you definitely have to surrender to the silliness to find joy in it. Quasi being told to kill both the king and pope helps lead to some hijinks and moves things along. I’m not sure who exactly I would recommend this to. Maybe stoner college dudes? I genuinely enjoyed Super Troopers, but maybe that is the exception to the rule for me. Maybe it’s all just a little too silly for me to enjoy. Next time a Broken Lizard flick comes out, I may just skip it. m

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

KINDRED SPIRITS: Sam (Bridget Everett, left) and Joel (Jeff Hiller) are two misfits who through a love of singing create a rich friendship that sees them through tough times, in Somebody Somewhere, now in season 2 on HBO Max.

It’s got a lot of heart, and watching these misfits create their own support systems is a joy. (season 2; seven 24- to 30-min. episodes)

—Anna

Based on David Cronenberg’s 1988 horror-thriller of the same name about identical twin gynecologists who take advantage of the fact that no one can tell them apart, this new TV series replaces Cronenberg’s male leads with Rachel Weisz in the twin roles of Beverly and Elliot Mantle, who are determined to change birthing. Despite their identical appearance, they’re two very different people—Elliot is brash, reckless, and unhinged; Beverly is circumspect, measured, and thoughtful. Yet, they have been inseparable and share everything from drugs to lovers to a desire for evolved reproductive health care.

Their tight relationship begins to unravel, however, when Beverly begins a relationship with Genevieve (Britne Oldford), an actress, leading Elliot into fits of jealousy and moments of madness. There’s an especially potent scene when Beverly and Genevieve have left town, leaving Elliot alone. She gets into an altercation with a woman named Agnes (a mesmerizing Susan Blommaert), and suddenly reality shifts and viewers no longer

DOUBLE TROUBLE: Rachel Weisz takes on the roles of Beverly and Elliot Mantle, twin gynecologists who are determined to change reproductive health care, in Dead Ringers streaming on Amazon Prime.

know what’s real. It’s brilliantly executed. This is a bloody series filled with graphic birth and C-section scenes, so for squeamish viewers, it might be too much. It’s weird and wild and sexy and morally messy. Prepare to be unsettled. (six 52- to 64-min. episodes) m —Glen

BREATHE, HOPE: Steve Lemme stars as a hunchback caught in the middle of a feud between the pope and the king of France, in the Broken Lizard production Quasi, inspired by Victor Hugo’s classic novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, streaming on Hulu.

Eats

Live and let olive

Los Olivos Rotary Club holds 17th annual Jazz and Olive Festival

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

The olive-themed appetizers at an upcoming food and wine festival in Los Olivos are virtually endless. Smoked olives, olive relish soup, olive rosemary pistachio biscotti, olive and oregano white bean hummus with sea salt and olive pita chips—the list goes on and on.

Attendees of the 17th annual Los Olivos Jazz and Olive Festival on Saturday, June 10, can look forward to said offerings and many more appetizers from the event’s participating chefs, as well as wine tastings from several featured vintners and wineries.

The Los Olivos Rotary Club has held the event annually, minus a two-year gap during the pandemic, for about the past two decades to help raise funds to support various causes, said Dave Bemis, chair of the event.

“This is our one fundraiser of the year. We turn the money we receive into grants for nonprofits all year,” Bemis told the Sun. “That’s why the event is

important to us, as it’s our only source of charitable giving.”

“The whole thing was started with the idea that Los Olivos means ‘the olives,’” Bemis added. “Historically there were more olive groves around here than there are now, but there are still some.”

This year’s event marks Bemis’ first go-round as the festival’s chair, but he’s been a helper at the fundraiser in other capacities over the past decade. For many previous events, Bemis was put in charge of recruiting the festival’s featured vintners.

“We recruit 30 wineries from Santa Barbara County to pour tastings, and we recruit 30 amateur chefs to create appetizers,” Bemis explained. “So each of our booths has one person pouring wine and another serving food.”

All food and wine offerings at the event are included with the $100 price of admission. Upon entering, attendees get a wristband and are then free to roam around the outdoor festival as they please, Bemis said.

“You get in, you get 30 tastings—or 60 tastings, if you want to double-up and go around twice,” Bemis said with a laugh. “The cost of tasting at

individual tasting rooms has just gone crazy. For $100, you could not taste at more than two or three vineyards these days. So we try to keep the price reasonable. It’s a great deal.”

While the festival’s featured chefs handle the olive aspect of the Los Olivos Jazz and Olive Festival, it’s up to Los Angeles-based jazz singer Denise Donatelli and her group of background musicians to provide the jazz.

“The lineup changes from year to year, but she always brings top-shelf professional musicians from LA with her,” Bemis said.

A multi-Grammy Award nominee, Donatelli and her group will perform at the one-day festival between 1 and 4 p.m.

A handful of olive oil vendors will also be on-site during the fundraiser, including one husband-andwife team that will host an additional olive-themed program of their own the following day, at the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum.

John and Shannon Copelend, the owners of Rancho Olivos, will lead a pop-up talk and olive oil tasting at the museum on Sunday, June 11, from 1 to 4 p.m.

“They are some of our longtime olive oil vendors at our festival,” Bemis said of the couple, who own an olive grove and extra virgin olive oil tasting

All that jazz

room in Santa Ynez and another tasting room in Morro Bay.

Admission to the Copelands’ talk is free for members of the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum, and $5 for nonmembers. While the Copelands and other olive oil vendors sell their goods at the festival, the event’s featured appetizer chefs will not only dish out their offerings to guests but compete for awards from a panel of judges.

Bemis said the goal of winning either first, second, or third place at the festival is one of the incentives the Rotary Club promotes when recruiting chefs to participate in the event.

The chefs participating in the fundraiser are nicknamed “O Chefs,” Bemis added.

Each year, the festival’s olive-themed appetizers from competing O Chefs are judged anonymously in a blind tasting, Bemis explained.

“We have runners who go to all 30 booths and get samples of the appetizers,” Bemis said. “The plates are numbered on the bottom, so nobody can see whose is whose.” m

Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood will circle the 30 booths at least thrice. Send comments to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOS OLIVOS JAZZ AND OLIVE FESTIVAL

FESTIVAL FESTIVITIES: The Los Olivos Rotary Club is gearing up to host its 17th annual Jazz and Olive Festival, with dozens of food and wine vendors slated to participate in this year’s event on June 10.

PHOTO

DYNAMIC DUO: Ranchos Olivos owners John and Shannon Copeland will be showcasing their extra virgin olive oils at the Los Olivos Jazz and Olive Festival. The husband-and-wife team will also lead a special pop-up talk and olive oil tasting the following day at the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOS OLIVOS JAZZ AND OLIVE FESTIVAL

TASTINGS GALORE: Olive oil vendors, chefs, and winemakers will be on-site offering tastings of their goods during the Los Olivos Jazz and Olive Festival. Access to all tastings are included in the $100 price of admission.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOS OLIVOS JAZZ AND OLIVE FESTIVAL

BAND ON THE RUN: Los Angeles-based jazz singer and multi-Grammy Award nominee Denise Donatelli and her group of musicians will provide live music at the Los Olivos Jazz and Olive Festival.

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