Sun, May 25, 2023

CALEB WISEBLOOD

After a winter and spring of more rain than most of us have ever seen on the Central Coast, everyone’s ready for some warmth. Well, if the sun’s out, the fun’s out—and the kids are also out … of school. So if you’re looking for ways to celebrate that summer lifestyle; places to stick your kids while you’re away at work; or find the coolest bands, the tastiest food and wine, or the most creative art, you’ve come to the right place. Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood put together a calendar of events for our annual Summer Guide that will keep you busy until school starts again [13]

This week, you can also read about the latest update on what’s happening with development in Santa Maria’s downtown [6]; dinner and the theater in Lompoc [34]; and what to do with in-season avocados from the Central Coast [37]

Camillia Lanham editor

Cover image from Adobe Stock > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) cosponsored the introduction of two bills that expand access to paid leave in the United States, according to a May 19 statement from Padilla’s office. The Healthy Families Act would ensure that workers can earn up to seven job-protected sick days each year to recover from their own illnesses, access preventative care, or provide care to a sick family member. It would also enable workers who are victims of domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault to use their sick days to recover, and it provides a simple method for calculating accrued sick time. Workers would earn a minimum of one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked, up to 56 hours per year—unless the employer selects a higher limit. The FAMILY Act would create a new Social Security Administration program to guarantee all workers up to 12 weeks of paid parental, medical, and caregiving leave. It broadens the definition of family by including a broader range of caregiving relationships; expands eligibility to cover all workers who have worked in the past two years; improves program financing; and includes a progressive wage replacement rate. “Nobody should have to forgo their pay or risk losing their job because they don’t have access to paid leave,” Padilla said in the statement. “That is why I’m cosponsoring these bills to expand federal leave policies across the country.”

• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) joined a group of House and Senate lawmakers in reintroducing the Invest to Protect Act: a legislation that will make critical, targeted investments in small to midsize police departments with fewer than 200 sworn officers for the recruitment, retention, mental health support, and training they need to protect themselves and their communities, according to a May 17 statement from the congressman’s office. The bipartisan, bicameral Invest to Protect Act of 2023 would invest in officer safety, deescalation, and domestic violence response training; create grants for small departments to recruit and retain new officers; allow departments to provide mental health resources for their officers; and authorize $50 million of existing funding per year for five years for local police departments. “Central Coast law enforcement officers work hard every day to protect our communities, combat gun violence, and keep our families safe,” Carbajal said in the statement. “They shouldn’t have to worry about competing with big city police departments for funding that can help them recruit and train. The Invest to Protect Act would ensure they get the resources they need to do their jobs.”

• Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the state’s most ambitious permitting and project review reforms in a half-century to build California’s clean energy resources, according to a May 19 statement from the governor’s office. The measures will facilitate and streamline project approval and completion to maximize California’s share of federal infrastructure dollars and expedite the implementation of projects that meet the state’s ambitious economic, climate, and social goals. Through investments over the past two state budgets, as well as funding from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and Inflation Reduction Act, California will invest up to $180 billion over the next decade in clean infrastructure, which aims to create 400,000 jobs while helping meet the state’s climate goals. By streamlining permitting, cutting red tape, and allowing state agencies to use new types of contracts, these proposals will maximize taxpayer dollars and accelerate timelines of projects throughout the state, while ensuring appropriate environmental review and community engagement. “The only way to achieve California’s world-leading climate goals is to build, build, build—faster. This proposal is the most ambitious effort to cut red tape and streamline regulations in half a century,” Newsom said in the statement. “It’s time to make the most out of taxpayer dollars and deliver results while creating hundreds of thousands of good jobs. Not since the Pat Brown era have we had the opportunity to invest in and rebuild this state to create the clean future Californians deserve.” m

Colson Canyon residents still waiting for road repairs after January storms

Paul Antolini’s stone quarry business remains closed nearly six months after the January storms sent a “tidal wave” of water through Colson Canyon Road.

“I’m just trying to get by, one day at a time. My employees are still on unemployment, and I’m looking forward to the day I can get back open,” Antolini said. “Gosh, I’ve never been through anything like this a day in my life.”

Colson Canyon Road runs into Los Padres National Forest and falls under the U.S. Forest Service’s jurisdiction, leaving the federal agency in charge of repairs and maintenance.

The U.S. Forest Service estimates that it will cost nearly $10 million to repair and it could take years to complete. For now, Antolini’s business remains inaccessible, Colson Canyon Road is still closed to the public, and residents are grappling with people trespassing on their private property to try and access the forest.

The Forest Service met with Colson Canyon residents on May 15 to give an update on the road’s reconstruction and answer residents’ questions, Antolini said. In the meantime, he said he’s working with Santa Barbara County and the Forest Service to find an alternative route for his business so he won’t have to remain shut down, but no route has been confirmed.

“There’s a lot of damage and I wish it could be fixed quicker, but unfortunately there’s been a lot of bureaucratic delay,” Antolini said. “I’m not trying to pass judgment; I’m just saying it is what it is.”

Andrew Madsen, a spokesperson for the U.S. Forest Service, told the Sun that the Forest Service is working with the Federal Highway Administration to make Colson Canyon Road eligible for emergency relief funds to cover the estimated cost of repairs.

“Folks from the Federal Highway Administration will evaluate in person, take some time looking at the road, and make an estimate of how much the cost would be and how much they would pay,” Madsen said. “The next scheduled round of evaluations is this fall. We have been told by the Federal Highway Administration that Colson Canyon Road is on the list and they will evaluate and make the determination if they will pick up the cost of rebuilding.”

It typically doesn’t take long for the administration to make a decision, he said, it’s getting the funds allocated that will take time. In the meantime, the road remains closed to the public.

“There have been incidents with the public going back in there and parking along the road, causing concerns for residents who know the road is closed,” Madsen said. “We have had people go and tip over back there right after the first set of storms. It’s people just looking for some fun, but it’s just not safe at this time.”

Mary Andrade, a resident who lives on the side of Colson Canyon Road that’s open, told the Sun on May 23 that there have been multiple incidents of target shooting, poaching wood, and trespassing on land clearly marked as private property.

“A week ago, someone pulled off the road right across from our home and started shooting quail on private property where my neighbor keeps all of her livestock, so it’s a problem,” Andrade said. “We want the public to come out and enjoy the forest, it is their right to, but … until the Forest Service repairs the road, we’re asking for the public’s patience, and we’re asking them to please respect the residents that live out there.”

With Memorial Day Weekend and hunting season approaching, she said that she and fellow residents have reached out to 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson’s Office and the Forest Service about getting additional patrol units and additional signage in the area to inform the public that they cannot enter.

While they wait for additional security measures, Andrade said the residents have been more communicative about who’s coming and going and made a temporary barricade and gate at the front entrance to Colson Canyon Road.

“It’s not perfect by any means but it’s something, and all of us are reaching out to the media, to [Congressman Salud] Carbajal’s office, Nelson’s office, and the Forest Service and being that squeaky wheel,” she said.

—Taylor O’Connor

Public hearings for massive Nipomo housing development delayed

The historically large Dana Reserve housing development in Nipomo continues to grind through San Luis Obispo County’s planning process—albeit six months behind schedule.

SLO County has yet to release a final environmental impact report (EIR) for the 1,289unit project between Tefft Street and Willow Road, causing community activists to wonder when that’ll happen and what’s going on behind the scenes.

“I feel like we’re way behind the curve. We can’t argue our points because we don’t have the information,” said Alison Martinez, a resident who co-founded the Nipomo Action Committee last year in opposition to the project. “It’s not transparent—the process—at all. It’s frustrating.”

The Dana Reserve’s draft EIR came out in June 2022 and identified seven significant and unavoidable impacts. The project as it’s pitched would bulldoze nearly 4,000 oak trees on the 288-acre Cañada Ranch to make way for 10 new neighborhoods.

A prior schedule for the project targeted a final EIR release date for early 2023, with public hearings planned in March at the SLO County Planning Commission and April at the SLO County Board of Supervisors.

But that timeline was pushed back without explanation, Martinez said.

“In fact, we struggle to get anyone from the county to communicate at all,” she said. “Is there a new project map? Can we see anything?”

County officials told the Sun that the delay is a result of the voluminous public feedback received on the draft EIR. SLO County’s Planning and Building Department also struggled with staffing turnover, according to Martinez and the project

applicant.

Now, SLO County is targeting a final EIR release date of July, which will be followed by a public comment period and then back-to-back Planning Commission hearings on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1.

Any revisions to the project’s scope or design won’t be public until then.

“We will be happy to discuss the changes at that point,” said Erika Schuetze, operations and communications manager for the SLO County Planning Department.

Nick Tompkins, the Dana Reserve developer, told the Sun that he’s also waiting on the county to release the final EIR to understand where the project’s headed.

He explained that the county is likely developing a recommended project in response to the draft EIR that could differ from what his team at NKT Commercial submitted.

“I know [county] staff is working on that,” Tompkins said. “They’re cognizant of the public’s concerns, and I think they’re trying to balance the concerns of the Nipomo Action Committee with goals of other parts of the community as well.”

Tompkins underscored that his goal with the Dana Reserve is to bring housing that’s affordable for the middle class to the community.

According to Martinez, that’s a respectable goal but, as it stands, comes at the expense of the environment and broader community.

Since the draft EIR was released, the Nipomo Action Committee has developed into a bonafide nonprofit, holding monthly meetings in the Blacklake Community Room in Nipomo.

The group has gathered nearly 2,000 signatures against the project.

On April 22, the Nipomo Action Committee held an Earth Day Rally at Nipomo Community Park, featuring a lineup of speakers—ranging from representatives of the YTT Northern Chumash Tribe to the California Native Plant Society—and live music.

Martinez said that the group is committed to raising awareness about the Dana Reserve, so the community is informed and engaged.

“We’re surprised that a lot of people still don’t know about the project,” Martinez said. “We’re OK if people support the project and they know about it. That’s their choice. But if people are not aware, we can raise awareness and let people decide for themselves.”

—Peter Johnson

Sheriff’s Office releases Melody Market shooting video, involved officer’s name

Santa Maria Police Officer Antonio Peña was the off-duty officer involved in the March 25 shooting at Melody Market where 19-year-old Santa Maria resident José Manuel Reyes Rios died, according to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office.

Along with Peña’s name, the Sheriff’s Office shared surveillance video from exterior cameras at Melody Market—a nearly nine-minute clip (which may be disturbing to some viewers) that shows the incident from two different angles.

Santa Maria Police Department Administrative Cmdr. Dan Cohen told the Sun on May 23 Peña had returned to work after being placed on administrative leave following the March 25 shooting.

Immediately following the incident, the Police Department began an administrative investigation to see whether Peña violated department policies, while the Sheriff’s Office simultaneously started its criminal investigation to determine whether crimes occurred. Both are ongoing. Once the Sheriff’s Office completes its investigation, the county District Attorney’s Office will conduct a review to determine if any crimes were committed.

“All cases are different and have a different timeline with different complexities that might make them move quicker or slow down, and the

COMBATING DAMAGE: Historic January storms caused significant damage to Colson Canyon Road, and residents are still waiting for the road to be fixed nearly six months later.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MELONY EDWARDS

District Attorney’s Office has to conduct a review, and depending on that review it might be quicker or it will take some time,” Cohen said.

This case is different from an on-duty shooting because the officer wasn’t responding to a call for emergency services or in his uniform or using his police car—which will all be taken into consideration along with the tactics and tools Peña used, Cohen said.

In the footage, two vehicles with four occupants in each vehicle approach Melody Market just before 8 p.m., with Reyes Rios in one of the cars. At 7:58 p.m., Peña arrived in his personal vehicle followed by a family with a child.

When Peña exited the store and returned to his vehicle, the groups were engaged in a physical altercation. Two people involved got hit by one of the vehicles, and Reyes Rios brandished a weapon and ran past Peña’s vehicle while firing at the group.

The video has no audio, but according to the Sheriff’s Office, Peña verbally identified himself as an officer and ordered Rios to stop shooting and surrender.

“[Reyes] Rios did not comply with Officer Peña’s command, raising his firearm and shooting again at the other group and toward an occupied restaurant,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. “In that moment, Officer Peña fired at Rios until he dropped to the ground.”

Officer Peña called emergency services on his cellphone, ushered the bystanders into the market, and sheltered them inside until deputies arrived. Rios was pronounced dead at the scene and was in possession of a ghost gun, a firearm without a serial number typically assembled from parts.

The Coroner’s Office determined that Reyes Rios died as a result of multiple gunshot wounds. The Sun inquired about

an autopsy report and Sherriff’s Office Public Information Officer Raquel Zick said that the full report isn’t available for release.

Cmdr. Cohen said that Santa Maria Police Chief Marc Schneider met with Reyes Rios’ family to view the video prior to its release to the public accompanied by Rebekah Spicuglia, the executive director for racial justice nonprofit One Community Action.

Spicuglia told the Sun that her team has since been helping the mother apply for a rental assistance grant, connected her to Community Health Care Clinics and food assistance, and welcomed her into OCA’s bereaved moms group that provides a space for parents to process grief and honor loved ones lost to violence, Spicuglia said.

“There are too many bereaved moms in this community. It’s not normal, it shouldn’t be accepted as normal, and we need as a matter of urgency everyone to come together to create a plan for violence prevention, intervention, and aftercare to support the victims and their families,” Spicuglia said.

As part of OCA’s effort to develop programs and collaboration opportunities with other agencies, the nonprofit is reaching out to local government agencies and law enforcement to facilitate conversations between the agencies and the bereaved moms group about what’s needed in the community to address violence, Spicuglia said.

“I would hope and expect that the Santa Barbara County Sheriff, Santa Maria Police Department, Santa Maria City Council, and Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors would want to hear what these moms will have to say,” she said.

“We are doing our part. It’s time for the city and county to step up—specifically on creating a plan to address gun violence that looks at prevention, intervention, and aftercare.” m

—Taylor O’Connor

‘The third evolution’

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

After waiting for years for Santa Maria to develop its downtown, Ed Carcarey said he’s excited to finally see some investment and promise for more housing, restaurants, and businesses in the city.

“I’ve been involved with the downtown [area] since I’ve owned a business in the city for 25 years now, located on the northern part of Santa Maria, so the downtown to me is important,” Carcarey said.

Carcarey runs Santa Maria’s Downtown Fridays: a family-friendly event that happens every Friday until the last week in September, drawing in more than 2,500 people.

Now, Carcarey will have to look for a new location for Downtown Fridays. This year, the Santa Maria City Council approved converting the old Fallas building into 104 loft-style apartments as part of the city’s Downtown Specific Plan—which aims to help make downtown a more pedestrian-friendly environment that brings vibrancy to the area with commercial and residential uses, open spaces, and plazas.

While some residents are concerned about what this might do to Downtown Fridays, and the community in general, Carcarey— along with city officials and the developer—said that the benefits of the downtown plan would outweigh the drawbacks.

“I truly believe it’s only going to help Downtown Fridays because it brings more people to the downtown,” Carcarey said. “It’s going to bring more challenges. Eventually we are going to have to find a new location. We’ve been doing it in the same spot for eight years.”

But the challenges, he said, will be worth it if it means the decadeslong Downtown Specific Plan finally comes to fruition, giving Santa Maria a pedestrian-friendly, more vibrant downtown area.

“We can debate how it looks, how many floors there are, and parking, but bottom line: We have to do something because we don’t have a downtown and the presentation is terrible,” Carcarey said. “We’ll figure it out as we go, but sitting back and continuing to debate it for a couple of more decades—that doesn’t work.”

In 2020, the city issued a request for proposal focused on underused, city-owned lots for potential redevelopment downtown.

Community Development Director Chuen Wu—who recently legally changed his last name from Ng—said Santa Maria accepted proposals from Santa Barbara-based construction company The Vernon Group, which kickstarted new downtown development plans.

“We’re in the middle of the process where we have drawings, we have one development agreement for one of the parcels,” Wu said. “Ultimately, the city would dispose of these properties and the developer would develop a project that meets the city’s goal.”

The Vernon Group got Santa Maria City Council’s approval to build a 104-unit apartment complex in the old Fallas building during its March 7 meeting. Another proposal to convert the old Bradley Hotel into a mixed-use building with 80 apartments and a ground floor retail space is scheduled to go before the Planning Commission later this year, Wu said. About 25 percent of the units for the two projects will be for affordable housing with the rest at market rate.

Another mixed use development project, proposed by Mark Fugate, aims to develop 104 apartments on Cook Street with ground floor commercial. In April, it went before the Planning Commission for a study session.

“Downtown redevelopment takes a lot of focus, energy, and

effort. We’re trying to facilitate change that otherwise probably wouldn’t occur if nobody took initiative,” Wu said. “Even if we do nothing, something happens. If we do nothing, it will continue to decline. This is a proactive effort to reverse those trends and to not just reverse economic trends, but literally transform the area.”

Downtown’s evolution came in three phases, Wu said. The first was the original downtown that established a city center and a grid layout more than 100 years ago. That remained until the Santa Maria Mall opened in 1975, introducing “Santa Maria 2.0,” Wu said.

“Now, it’s been 30 to 40 years past that time frame, and we’re really looking at the third evolution of downtown, and it includes the mall, Main Street, and Broadway, and in some ways it’s an attempt to bring everything together,” he said.

In 2004 and again in 2015, the city conducted public outreach for the Downtown Specific Plan to define a vision and create a road map to achieve those goals.

“It doesn’t dictate what it should look like, but there are some overarching goals for people to talk and gather in an environment that is going to feel comfortable, that would attract additional destinations like restaurants and bars and places that people can go on a weekend. That’s really the larger vision,” Wu said. “I understand there’s a lot of housing proposed and people may feel it’s too dense or too congested, but you have to look at congestion as an indicator of success.”

Orcutt resident Cliff Solomon said that he isn’t sure who will be filling these new spaces.

“I think Santa Maria has a real problem having work for professionals. Certainly we support agriculture and do a good job with that, but I’m not sure where all of these people are going to be working,” Solomon said.

While Solomon may live in Orcutt, he shops, works with nonprofits, and attends a local Methodist church in Santa Maria. He said he has a stake in what happens to the city. He’s voiced concerns during public comment at City Council meetings about parking at the Methodist church during construction and when the units are occupied, and Solomon said the city also needs to address the bigger

picture of the jobs-housing balance.

“There wasn’t a lot of work for me as an educated professional, so that’s one of the dilemmas Santa Maria has,” he said. “There’s this division of North County and South County, it is there. Can we get work for professionals not associated with agriculture?”

In his own experience looking to move to and find employment in Santa Maria after working at the University of Washington, Solomon had difficulty finding a job as an educator who taught clinicians how to use a computer program.

When he and his wife moved, he interviewed at Cottage Hospital but didn’t get an offer, and he looked at Allan Hancock College but couldn’t find a job due to low turnover rates at the school, he said. Eventually, he found a job at Vandenberg Space Force Base and a hospital in Lompoc.

“Is this work, is this revitalization going to draw those people, those young professionals? Is that who they are targeting? Who is going to be living in those lofts? Who is going to pay market rate for the lofts? Where are those people going to be employed?” he asked.

David Alpern, a partner at The Vernon Group, said that the Fallas loft-style apartments cater to a variety of people who are looking for a lifestyle that allows them to leave on a weekend and gives them an abundance of amenities.

“I tend to think it’s people that want a specific lifestyle and there can be a bunch of different demographics that want a similar lifestyle,” Alpern said. “Everything from recent grads to empty nesters … active military, teachers, first responders. We want to provide housing that will cater to a wide mix of people.”

Along with the the Fallas building and the Bradley Hotel, The Vernon Group acquired two additional city-owned parcels and three other privately owned properties within Santa Maria’s Downtown Specific Plan area.

“Change can be extremely scary—the fear of the unknown that can grip locals when development is coming, and I strongly encourage them to reach out, to go on the internet and read the specific plan. It’s been a document that’s been there for a long time,” Alpern said. “It’s the unknown that can be scary; the good news is the framework is there.” m

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

Santa Maria makes headway on the decades-long Downtown Specific Plan process, but residents are concerned about impacts on neighborhoods and businesses

AND REPURPOSING: This rendering shows what the new loft-style apartments would look like after The Vernon Group repurposes the old Fallas building on West Broadway and Main Street.

Potato Harbor photo by Mark Corcoran

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Pride prom

behave how they wanted, and connect with those around them who affirm and support them,” LeGrande said. “The impact events like this can have on the youth or just anyone that identifies as LGBTQ-plus is endless.”

Several of those students who helped coordinate the Pride Prom told the Sun that an event like this has long been in the works, and now with the help of Jones and LeGrande, they were finally able to bring the prom to life for students across two counties.

BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

There’s a new prom in town for high school students from North Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, one that’s helps celebrate the LGBTQ-plus community on the Central Coast.

“It’s all about gathering together with your community and dancing, or putting art together, or just making new friends,” said Faith LeGrande, founder of Art and Soul, a SLO-based inclusive event coordination organization.

LeGrande worked with San Luis Obispo’s Gala Pride and Diversity Center volunteer Val Jones, who uses they/them pronouns, to coordinate the Pride Prom, which took place on May 20 at San Luis Obispo High School.

The event was just one of many in a month-long celebration that Central Coast Pride is putting together for the months of May and June, including Pride at the Park, Pride in the Plaza, and Trans Pride at the Park—coordinated by Laura Albers, who serves as the Central Coast Pride director.

“So many people—whether it’s students or adults—have expressed how profound the personal impact is for them,” Albers told the Sun “We want to create as many spaces as we can because they are truly more impactful than what any of us can understand.”

The Pride Prom reaffirmed that mentality according to LeGrande, who saw students experience a prom event where they could truly be themselves.

“It was an incredible event,” LeGrande said. “We were able to provide a brave, creative space for students to not only express themselves how they truly wanted to, but also be comfortable in doing so.”

She told the Sun that the event’s success gives her hope that this is the first of what will be many youth proms on the Central Coast.

“Throwing this was our way of telling these students that they could dress how they wanted,

“It’s really been awesome to see this idea our club has had for years become a reality,” said SLO High School Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) Club Vice President Kyle—who asked to only go by his first name. “It’s definitely not something we would have been able to do without their help.”

Jones also praised the students for their efforts to bring an event like this together for their peers and make sure everyone from across the Central Coast knew about the event.

“It’s incredible to see how involved the students have been with the whole planning and promotional process,” they said. “We worked with the GSA and other clubs around the county with students from different schools putting up posters and helping sell tickets.”

Albers, Jones, and LeGrande told the Sun that they received support from all over with companies like Jamba Juice and Insomina Cookies offering smoothies and cookies as snacks for the prom event and PG&E sponsoring the Trans Pride at the Park event.

“We really want to throw an event that invokes that same inclusiveness as Pride Prom,” Albers said. “Thanks to all of the sponsors, companies, and nonprofits that are contributing to our events like the prom and Trans Pride at the Park, we are able to support some of the more marginalized groups within that LGBTQplus spectrum.”

While the events do have an LGBTQ-plus focus, the organizers said that they’re open to all residents who want to attend—regardless of whether they’re allies or members of the LGBTQ-plus community.

“Much like the Pride Prom, we are extending the invitation to allies and LGBTQ-plus members throughout northern Santa Barbara and SLO County,” Albers said. “We want everyone we are celebrating to know, no matter where you are from or why you are here, you are loved.”

Highlight

• Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley will host its third Countywide Tobacco Prevention Summit, a free event that will cover tobacco prevention, mental health, and fentanyl and opioids in Santa Barbara County. Specifically, the summit will highlight the Headspace mental health app, current tobacco trends and policies, fentanyl and opioids, and Narcan training. There will be a teen mock bedroom presentation called Hidden in Plain Sight where attendees will see what paraphernalia youth are using and how they disguise them. The event is scheduled to take place on May 31 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Buellton Rec. Center—located at 301 2nd St. Email gina@ fbsmv.org for more information. m

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

This rainbow art piece was set up for Central Coast students to celebrate Pride Prom by taking photos with it during the May 20 event—Art and Soul founder Faith LeGrande (left) and vendor Ali Miller-Bean posed recently at Art and Soul’s Shabang Music and Art festival booth.

Thank you, Pioneer Valley FFA!

What are you most excited about for the Los Olivos Jazz and Olive Festival?

42% The wine and food pairings.

29% To eat an obscene amount of olives (Duh!).

29% The live music and the venue.

0% I’m allergic to olives.

7 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

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ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER | Eva Lipson

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Business Cindy Rucker

CIRCULATION | Jim Chaney, Michael Ferrell, Margo Baldives, Simon Lopez

PUBLISHERS | Bob Rucker, Alex Zuniga

OFFICE MANAGER | Patricia Horton

OFFICE ASSISTANT | Michael Gould

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I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Pioneer Valley Future Farmers of America (FFA) for their invaluable support during the opening reception of the Los Alamos Flea. The involvement of three exceptional high school students, Crystal Ortiz, Andrea Cuevas, and Abigail Velasquez, along with their teacher, Tyler Dickinson, made a remarkable impact on our event.

Crystal, Andrea, and Abigail, who represented Pioneer Valley FFA as servers, were a joy to work with. Their enthusiasm, professionalism, and genuine interest in the food and our chef’s work created a welcoming atmosphere that made our event far more memorable! They made a lasting impression on our team and the attendees, who praised the exceptional service they provided on multiple occasions.

I would also like to express my gratitude to Pioneer Valley’s Tyler Dickinson for his instrumental role in coordinating the participation of Pioneer Valley FFA students. His guidance and support were invaluable, showcasing his commitment to their growth and development.

Furthermore, I extend appreciation to Kylin Bray for her active involvement in Pioneer Valley FFA leadership and helping us coordinate everything.

The IRL Arts Foundation has been blessed to have many interactions with Pioneer Valley FFA students, and we are so hopeful for the future with every single one. Our future looks bright if our land and livestock are in the stewardship of these amazing future leaders!

As we live in an agrarian economy, we would like to encourage your readers to become more familiar with the FFA in Santa Barbara County. Our beautiful area relies on intelligent people with a strong moral compass to take good care of it for future generations. The dedication to community involvement and the sense of responsibility we experienced in our work with the students and leadership of the Pioneer Valley FFA has let us know our future is in good hands.

Once again, I want to express my sincere gratitude

to Pioneer Valley FFA, Crystal Ortiz, Andrea Cuevas, Abigail Velasquez, Tyler Dickinson, and Kylin Bray for their exceptional support. We are immensely grateful for their partnership and eagerly look forward to future collaboration!

Katie Smith-Adair president, IRL Arts Foundation

Protect accountability

Accountability is an ideal that is severely missing in our country today. People need to be accountable for their actions, especially when it’s about the responsibility of government to serve the people. If you believe that government owes a higher duty of accountability to taxpayers, then you will share my opposition to a recently proposed amendment to the California Constitution.

There is a proposal moving through Sacramento right now that will destroy accountability and take away your right to vote for or against the people elected to oversee California’s property tax system. Getting rid of your elected members of the state Board of Equalization (BOE) is a bad idea and a big deal.

If voters pass Assembly Constitutional Amendment 11 (ACA 11), it would eliminate the elected members of the Board of Equalization. This means that the constitutional protections of taxpayers for 144 years would be wiped away and replaced by another unelected, unaccountable, and untouchable state government bureaucracy.

We are dealing with a significant matter here. The total assessed value of all California properties is $7.1 trillion, resulting in nearly $80 billion in local property tax revenues for 2022. Assessing the value of most properties is done by locally elected county assessors, with the Board of Equalization providing the rules and oversight of those elected officials. In the same way that county assessors are reelected, the BOE has four elected members plus the state controller, an elected statewide constitutional officer.

Those who seek to eliminate accountability provided by elected BOE members say that California is the only state with an elected tax board. Good for us and those who wrote the California State Constitution in 1879.

Those early Californians

understood that holding elected representatives accountable is much better than power in the hands of unaccountable state bureaucrats.

When you or other taxpayers have a property assessment question or a property tax problem, you deserve the best, most courteous, and timely help. Elected county assessors are often the first contact for taxpayers. Because of the checks and balances that come with being elected to positions of trust, assessors provide a valuable service to the public. In the same way, the elected representatives on the BOE report to you and they are held to a high standard of accountability for their decisions and actions.

Nearly all of us have experienced a government department that doesn’t work well—the Employment Development Department and Department of Motor Vehicles come to mind as examples of inefficient, costly, bureaucratic, and unaccountable government agencies. It is impossible to believe a bunch of career, civil service, untouchable bureaucrats are going to do a better job than the small and efficient group of five elected board members at the BOE. Besides, if you don’t like the way a BOE member is doing their job, you can vote them out in the next election. To me, that is accountability.

Tom Bordonaro

San Luis Obispo County Assessor

Leaders need to do more

Where is our FDR? With exception to the 22nd Amendment, where is a president so popular he or she will be reelected to the office of the president three times for a total of four terms?

Where is public employment for the masses?

Is the contempt for the average American by our elected leaders so complete that the wealth of experience that the history of the 20th century has left us is beyond their grasp?

Having barely survived the COVID-19 era only to be met with bank collapses so large they surpass the balance of the very insurance program designed to save depositors (FDIC), the best our leaders can do is roll back SNAP food assistance, roll back child labor laws, roll back direct assistance, slavishly expand a preposterously large defense budget, assault Social Security (a Depression-era program designed to prevent seniors from surviving on tins of Alpo), force active duty soldiers to rely on SNAP benefits, and look away while subsidizing behemoth corporations such as Walmart by setting up internal offices to assist the working poor who stock their shelves to enroll in this country’s shrinking welfare programs.

Is this the best they can do? A huge portion of our politicians are lawyers. Are we to say they are unaware of the period in which America’s alphabet agencies were created? Many of these agencies are they ones they migrate to immediately after serving in office. The only difference between the Great Depression and now is that we have no future. It is not “morning in America,” rather, it is well past sunset.

America has no more factories to provide the finished goods to sell around the world. Perhaps we shouldn’t. Perhaps we should walk away from all that we have known in the last 125 years and quit trying to resurrect it. Perhaps we should stop worshipping at the feet of capital and tax it instead. Perhaps we should use those proceeds to build the dwellings Americans need; perhaps we should use the proceeds to provide public dining facilities for both the rich and poor; perhaps we should use the proceeds to fund a public health care system that actually works; perhaps we should stop funding a war machine so lethal it could wipe out humanity at the touch of a button.

I believe this is what the adherents of what was at one time a cult describe as “beating swords into plowshares.” We have to do this if we are to survive as a nation. If not, we can’t say we weren’t warned.

Shanti Harris San Luis Obispo

Colson Canyon Road has been closed since January.

If you live on the wrong side of that closure, guess what? You better own an ATV, because that’s the only way you’re getting to and from your house. Sounds amazing, right? If you own a business on the wrong side of that closure, you’ve been out of business for almost six months. Wow. Just stellar!

“My employees are still on unemployment, and I’m looking forward to the day I can get back open,” said Paul Antolini, who owns a stone quarry business on the wrong end of Colson Canyon’s giant chasm. “I’ve never been through anything like this a day in my life.”

I can’t imagine. He said he isn’t trying to pass judgement against the folks working to possibly get the road open, “but unfortunately there’s been a lot of bureaucratic delay.”

Yep, the government works in mysterious, excruciatingly slow ways.

Antolini is going to have to wait until the U.S. Forest Service can cobble together a cool $10 million to patch the road. The next round of potential funding from the Federal Highway Administration comes in the fall. The fall

And even then, that funding isn’t a certainty. Nacimiento-Ferguson Road has been out of commission since 2020 due to fire and storm damage. The road recently received a funding allocation from the Federal Highway Administration, and work finally started on fixing it. Who knows when that construction will be finished.

The road provides popular recreational access to parts of Los Padres National Forest in Big Sur, just like Colson Canyon does outside of Santa Maria. And because John Q. Public has a tendency to be kind of a jerk-off, people who live on the right side of the road closure aren’t exactly in the clear either. Yayhoos will be yayhoos, you know? They just can’t be anything else.

Can you imagine someone pulling up in front of your property and just shooting at things?

It’s happening on Colson Canyon Road.

“A week ago, someone pulled off the road right across from our home and started shooting quail on private property where my neighbor keeps all of her livestock, so it’s a problem,” Mary Andrade said.

That’s an understatement, Mary. Sounds like a dangerous menace to society who could cost someone a lot of money. These lovely visitors are also stealing wood from property owners and trespassing on their property.

“The public,” which sometimes is shorthand for “idiots,” also seems to think driving around the road closure signs is a wonderful idea. They park alongside the road and occasionally “tip over,” because, you know, the road is closed due to it being unsafe to drive on.

“It’s just people looking for some fun, but it’s not safe at this time,” Los Padres spokesperson Andrew Madsen said. Some people looking for fun could make things harder for everyone in the long run if they aren’t more careful. Residents are looking for extra patrol units to come up and keep “the public” in line.

I wonder what’s in store for residents on this upcoming Memorial Day Weekend? Hopefully not jerk-offs or idiots, but I wouldn’t hold my breath. ∆

The Canary is looking for some fun, but it’s gotta be safe. Send ideas to canary@santamariasun.com.

Help a Child’s Journey to a Bright Future

Meet Daniel, a vibrant and inquisitive 15-year-old on a path of self-discovery. Despite experiencing the challenge of being in the foster care system, he’s found an incredible connection with his CASA volunteer, Frank. Together, they explore a world of endless possibilities, discussing everything from health food to the mysteries of outer space. Their bond is built on trust and open communication, providing Daniel with the support he needs to flourish.

Frank, as Daniel’s CASA volunteer, is committed to helping him achieve his goals in education, and overall

well-being. As a team, they’ve set advocacy goals that guide their journey. Over the past year, Daniel has found stability with his foster family, allowing him to concentrate on his studies, personal growth, and dreams for the future.

Before finding stability in his current home, Daniel experienced the constant turmoil of changing homes and schools, hindering his ability to focus on anything beyond his immediate circumstances. However, with Frank as his educational rights holder, Daniel was able to stay on track with school and is now looking forward

to what lies ahead. They are actively assessing Daniel’s interests, enrolling him in exciting new classes, and eliminating those that don’t captivate his imagination. Additionally, they’re working together to involve Daniel in extracurricular activities that align with his diverse interests.

Frank acknowledges that, like all of us, Daniel has both good and challenging days. Still, he is in a positive state of mind, emotionally resilient, and physically well. Despite the trials he has faced, Daniel maintains an optimistic outlook on his future.

Join us in making a difference in the life of a young person like Daniel. Visit sbcasa.org or email volunteer@sbcasa.org to become a CASA volunteer today. Together, let’s empower and uplift our youth, ensuring they have the support they deserve as they strive for a brighter tomorrow.

Hot Stuff

WHEN STILL LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS

Gallery Los Olivos presents The Not So Still Life, a solo exhibition of oil paintings by local artist Patti Robbins, through Wednesday, May 31. The exhibit is described as “a celebration of the natural world” in press materials. Call (805) 688-7517 or visit gallerylosolivos.com for more info. Gallery Los Olivos is located at 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

—Caleb Wiseblood

ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

2023 NUESTRA LOTERIA GALLERY

View the Loteria Exhibit, which features the works of students from Ernest Righetti High School and Santa Maria High School. June 2 6 p.m. Free. 209-312-8653. corazondelpueblo.org/ nuestra-loteria. Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria.

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.

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. 805-925-0464. coelhomusic.com/ Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

LAUGH THERAPY: STAND UP COMEDY

2023 Features a lineup of hilarious comedians. Visit site for tickets and more info. May 31 8-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, 805-686-4785.

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

MUSIC IS LOVE: PHOTOGRAPHS BY HENRY DILTZ Opening reception will be held on May 26, from 7 to 9 p.m. May 26 - Aug. 13 elverhoj.org. Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, 805-686-1211.

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 31 805-688-

7517. 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

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

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.

SLEEPING BEAUTY This Tchaikovsky/ Petipa masterpiece is one of best-loved ballets. The role of Princess Aurora will be alternately performed by two members of the Santa Maria Civic Ballet. June 3 6-8 p.m. and June 4 , 3-5 p.m. $20-$25. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ everybody-can-dance-sleeping-beauty/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

UNDER THE BOARDWALK Visit site for tickets and more info on the show. May 26 -July 15 americanmelodrama.com/. Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

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.

LUIS OBISPO

SAN

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 CLASS FOR TEENS After-school art class specifically for teens ages 13-18. Drawing and painting skills, color theory, composition, perspective, expressing emotion through images, negative space, bookmaking, collages, mixed media, paper mache, etc. Sign up week-by-week. Tuesdays. through June 27 $25. 702335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

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, 3:30-

4:30 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.

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.

COMEDY NIGHT Professional comedy show featuring local and touring comics. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. First Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. $5. 805-540-8300. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo, bangthedrumbrewery.com.

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

FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/events/ first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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

IMPROV COMEDY SHOW Enjoy live, improvised comedy shows that utilize audience suggestions, wine and beer, and food from Wicked Garden in a casual setting. Thursdays, noon through May 26 $10. 805-858-8255. centralcoastcomedytheater.com/shows.

SLO Wine and Beer Company, 3536 S. Higuera St., suite 250, San Luis Obispo. Enjoy live improv comedy from the performing cast of Central Coast Comedy Theater. June 2 , 6 a.m.-noon $10. 805-8588255. centralcoastcomedytheater.com/ shows. SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, 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. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo. com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

KIDS ART CLASS: PORTRAITS FOR KIDS

WITH ZOE WILLIAMSON Learn to love drawing faces. Each class, we will look at a famous artist, a new style of art, and practice drawing different expressions using simple proportions. Learn new techniques and build confidence. For kids ages 7 and older. Tuesdays, 3:30-5 p.m. through June 13 $300 for 10 Classes. 805-

Summer Guide 2023

INDEX

HEY JUDY

The Clark Center for the Performing Arts in Arroyo Grande presents An Evening

Summer Guide 2023

encourages everyone to get involved in providing hunger relief. Join by donating, fundraising, volunteering, and more. June 2 , 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 805-238-4664. slofoodbank.org. SLO County, Various locations, San Luis Obispo.

PRIDE IN THE PLAZA Central Coast Pride presents Pride in the Plaza. Take a stroll through the plaza for music, vendors, drinks, and more. All are welcome. June 4 1:30-6 p.m. Free. 805-5414252. slopride.com/. Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo. PRIDEFEST Central Coast Pride 2023 presents Pridefest. Come out for a day of family-friendly celebration of Pride, with music, food, art, vendors, resources, and community. All are welcome. June 3 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-541-4252. slopride.com/. Laguna Lake Park, 504 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

SLO GREEK FESTIVAL 2023 Features food, live music, dancing, and more. June 3 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and June 4 11 a.m.-5 p.m. slochamber.org/slo-greek-festival. Madonna Inn Expo Center, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

SUPERHEROES IN SLO VACATION BIBLE CAMP For ages 5-12. Enjoy a full week of camp with a superhero theme. Cooking classes, theater, art, music, sports, and lots of other fun activities await. July 31 - Aug. 4 my805tix.com. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 1344 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

18TH ANNUAL PASO PINOT AND PAELLA FESTIVAL Enjoy paellas, pinot noir, music, dancing, and more. June 4 , 2-5 p.m. $100. 805-239-2565. pinotandpaella.com. Templeton Park, 550 Crocker St., Templeton.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCATION’S LONGEST DAY FUNDRAISER

SCRAMBLE GOLF TOURNAMENT Exciting prizes, gift bags for all, drinks, food, free raffle tickets, and more for a $100 entry fee. More than $1000 from proceeds to the Alzheimer’s Association. Contact Sue Gibson to register at 415-656-6869 or sue@ slgseniorcare.com June 21 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $100. 415-656-6869. Chalk Mountain Golf Course, 10000 El Bordo Ave., Atascadero. ARTISAN CRAFT FAIR Will feature a variety of artists and vendors who will be selling their crafts and services. June 2 , 4-7 p.m. Free. 805-434-9611. desparada.com. Desparada Wines, 3060 Limestone Way, Paso Robles.

With Judy Collins on Tuesday, Aug. 22, from 7:30 to 10 p.m. For tickets to the singersongwriter’s upcoming show or more info, call (805) 489-9444 or visit clarkcenter.org. The Clark Center for the Performing Arts is located at 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. —Caleb

Special Summer eventS

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

LOS OLIVOS JAZZ AND OLIVE FESTIVAL Los Olivos Rotary invites public to enjoy tastings from 30 of Santa Barbara County’s top wineries, along with delicious bites from local chefs and gourmet producers, and an afternoon of live jazz. June 10 1-4 p.m. $100. 805-245-7142. jazzandolivefestival.org/.

Downtown Los Olivos, Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS Visit site to keep up with Solvang’s traditional festivities scheduled for this September. Sept. 15-17 solvangusa.com. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.

SUMMER CLASSIC DINNER AND AUCTION Features silent and live auctions with a wide variety of lifestyle packages and items from local businesses. June 24 8:30 p.m. eventsbyenfuego. ticketsauce.com. St. Mark’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, 2901 Nojoqui Ave., Los Olivos.

ZACA MESA WINERY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Zaca Mesa Winery and Vineyards is turning 50. Celebrate with a day of live rock n’ roll music, California-style barbecue, wine, community, and more. June 3 12-4 p.m. $75. 805-688-9339. zacamesa.com/upcoming-events/. Zaca Mesa Winery, 6905 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

LOMPOC FLOWER FESTIVAL Features carnival rides and games, arts and craft exhibitors, food booths and commercial vendors, musical entertainment, and more. June 22-25 explorelompoc.com. Ryon Park, 800 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

MOUNTAIN MEN Buckskin clad members of the American Mountain Men share mountain men history and skills. Cooking, hide preparation and tanning, leather working, rope making, and blacksmithing are among the skills that visitors may experience. Aug. 25-26 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. explorelompoc.com. La Purisima Mission, 2295 Purisima Mission, Lompoc.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

ALL KINDS OF FAMILIES CELEBRATION All families are unique, and this special story time will recognize families of all shapes and sizes. Featuring books, rhymes, and a chance to play together, this story time will be fun for everyone. For families of all ages. June 28 2 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons. org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

CHUCK WAGON BARBECUE Celebrate Father’s Day with music, food, drink, vendors, and more. Live music will be provided by Fist Full of Nickles. June 18 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $30. 661-766-2825.

Wiseblood

cuyamabuckhorn.com/chuck-wagon-bbq. Cuyama Buckhorn, 4923 Primero St., New Cuyama.

FAMILY DANCE PARTY Toddlers, preschoolers, enthusiastic siblings, and caregivers, join us for a fun dance party that the whole family will enjoy. Follow along to some of your favorite story time dances, get your wiggles out, and bust a move on the dance floor in this high-energy program. July 17 11 a.m.

805-925-0994. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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.

NATIONAL SELFIE DAY Celebrate Selfie Day with selfie stations all around the children’s room with different props to pose with. Celebrating the Summer Reading Programs theme, Find Your Voice. For families of all ages. June 21 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Free.

805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library

(Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY FAIR Features an interesting mix of both community oriented and educational fun. The fair also includes award-winning wines, fine art, and plenty of entertainment for both young and young at heart. July 12-16 santamariafairpark.com. Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria.

SANTA MARIA PRIDE 2023 Hosted by the House of Pride and Equality. June 10, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. facebook.com/ houseofprideandequality. Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria.

SUMMER PARTICIPANTS PARTY Check in at the Youth Services desk to join the Summer Participants Party. Crafts, chalk, therapy dogs, and treats will be available for youth who participated in Summer Reading. July 29 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free.

805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library

(Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

TEEN HAUNTED ESCAPE ROOM Bring friends and try to escape before it’s too late. Prizes will be awarded to the team with the best time, and light snacks be served. July 7, 4 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library

(Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

WILDLIFE ON WHEELS Meet animals and zoo educators to learn about conservation, animals, and working at a zoo. Animals and professionals provided by Charles Paddock Zoo. For families of all ages. This program was supported in whole or in part by the Santa Maria Friends of the Library. June 24 11 a.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Shepard Hall Art Gallery - Santa Maria Public Library, 421 South McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AVILA BEACH 4TH OF JULY DOGGIE PARADE Registration forms available. All dogs must be registered to walk in the parade. July 4 , 11 a.m.-noon avilabeachcc.com. Avila Beach Promenade, 404 Front St., Avila Beach. AVILA BEACH PARTY Features games, music, food, drinks, and more. May 27 1-7 p.m., May 28 , 1-7 p.m. and May 29, 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-595-4000. Avila Beach Golf Resort, 6464 Ana Bay Rd., Avila Beach.

CAMP AG JAMBOREE Features hands-on activities, historical displays, live music by Monte Mills and the Lucky Horseshoe Band, and lunch from 5-Cities Men’s Club. June 3 , 11 a.m. my805tix.com. Camp Arroyo Grande, 250 Wesley St., Arroyo Grande, 805-249-9517.

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/ show-and-sale/. Nipomo High School, 525 N Thompson Ave, Nipomo.

SEA EXPLORERS SUMMER CAMP New sessions start each week for Sea Explorers ages 5 to 12. Deep dive into a unique marine science subject exploring marine habitats, interacting with live animals, and conducting experiments each day to learn more about the wonders of our oceans. Mondays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through July 31 Varies. 805-457-5357. centralcoastaquarium. com. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach. SUMMER CAMP 2023 Are you looking for a fun and educational way to keep your children busy this summer? Look no further than DANA Adobe and Cultural Center’s Summer Day Camp. June 12 , 9 a.m.-3 p.m., June 19 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and June 26 9 a.m.3 p.m. $300. 805-929-5679. danaadobe.org. DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

37TH ANNUAL CENTRAL COAST RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Relax on a shady hay bale and watch riotous stage plays, hilarious comedy acts, authentic Elizabethan dancing, a falconry show, magic, juggling, and buffoonery. July 15 -16 my805tix.com. Laguna Lake Park, 504 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo. CAMP SHORESHIM Summer camps offered in two separate sessions. Visit site for more details. July 10 -14 and July 17-21 jccslo.com/. JCC-Federation of SLO Property, 875 Laureate Lane, San Luis Obispo, 805-426-5465.

HUNGER AWARENESS DAY A countywide event that brings the community together to raise awareness about hunger, highlights ways that the SLO Food Bank works to alleviate it, and

CALIFORNIA MID-STATE FAIR Features live music, food vendors, carnival attractions, and more. July 19-30 midstatefair.com. Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

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

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

THE PACIFIC HERITAGE TOUR 2023 Enjoy an exhilarating journey aboard San Salvador, making a rare tour stop in Morro Bay. Step aboard the galleon and explore this captivating dockside exhibit: a full-scale replica of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s legendary ship, the first European vessel to grace the West Coast. Aug. 11-20 10 a.m.-5 p.m. my805tix.com. Morro Bay S. T Pier, 1185 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.

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., May 28 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and May 29 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-402-9437. Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay.

live muSic

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

5 PUNK BANDS LIVE Presented by Records on Tap. July 29 6:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

COLONEL ANGUS LIVE An AC/DC cover band. June 2 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. DR. T AND THE BLUES CRIMINALS July 8 6:30 p.m. my805tix. com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. GAS STATION SUSHI AND FRIENDS LIVE June 9 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. GREEN JELLY: PUNK PUPPET SHOW CONCERT July 1 , 6 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. NOCHE LATINA With DJ Kazanova. Aug. 11 6 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

RED HOT TRIBUTE With The Faithful, a tribute to Pearl Jam. Aug. 19, 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

STEVIE NICKS ILLUSION July 14 , 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

TREMENDOS DEL 805 AND BANDA REAL 12-21 For ages 21 and over. Beer and more available for purchase. June 16 , 6:30 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.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CLARK CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

FAMILY SING-ALONG Ready to sing along? Join us for a special event where everyone can join in the fun. Watch videos of your favorite characters and sing along with their songs. Come dressed to impress. July 20, 11 a.m. 805-925-0994. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., 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.

INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO WITH THE SAN LUIS OBISPO SYMPHONY The Instrument Petting Zoo provides an up-close and personal encounter with a menagerie of musical instruments. July 15 2:30 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., 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, 805623-8866.

RASTA FUEGO May 27 1 p.m. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777, rooneysirishpub.net.

THE SKYLITES AT NAUGHTY OAK BREWING Enjoy beer and more on the outdoor patio with music from The SkyLites. June 17, 6-9 p.m. Naughty Oak Brewing Co., 165 S Broadway St. suite 102, Orcutt, 805-287-9663, naughtyoak.com.

SPOTLIGHT ON VOCALISTS The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens Club presents this dance with Riptide Big Band, and vocalists Bob Nations, Mitch Latting, and guests. Free thanks to a grant funded by Community Foundation of SLO County. June 11 1:30-4 p.m. Free. 775-813-5186. RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

STUFFED ANIMAL KARAOKE NIGHT Find Your Voice Karaoke night for stuffed animals. Choose one buddy to stay over for one night of music, fun, and making new friends. Dress your buddy in their best party outfit or create one at the library. Pick up the following day. June 16 -17, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

B & THE HIVE LIVE Part of the Lighthouse’s live music series. Sept. 9, 2-5:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

CARBON CITY LIGHTS: LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE An alternative rock band based in San Luis Obispo. July 8 2-5:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

DANTE MARSH AND THE VIBESETTERS A high energy pop/ soul band based out of San Luis Obispo. Aug. 12 2-5:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

DAVE BECKER QUARTET: LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE Dave Becker, Ken Husted, and Dean Giles are joined by Kristian Ducharme (Damon Castillo Band, 41k). Featuring the rich vocals of Nicole Stromsoe. July 22 , 2-5:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

DAVE STAMEY LIVE Renowned cowboy singer-songwriter Dave Stamey will be performing. July 8 4-7 p.m. $60-$600. 805-929-5679. danaadobe.org. DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo.

AN EVENING WITH JUDY COLLINS Judy Collins has inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. In the 1960s, she evoked both the idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. Aug. 22 7:30-10 p.m. 805-489-9444. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, clarkcenter.org.

FM PRESENTS: LUCIA MICARELLI AND LEO AMUEDO Join violinist and singer Lucia Micarelli and guitarist Leo Amuedo for an intimate concert showcasing diverse influences moving from jazz, to classical, to traditional fiddle music, Americana, and Latin, that creates a musical map binding together Lucia’s trademark emotional vulnerability and Leo’s technical wizardry. July 27, 5:30-8 p.m. Tickets start at $59. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org.

DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo.

FM PRESENTS: RACHEL BAIMAN Americana singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Rachel Baiman returns to Festival Mozaic to headline this show at See Canyon Fruit Ranch. July 23 2-4 p.m. Tickets start at $57. festivalmozaic.org. See Canyon Fruit Ranch, 2345 See Canyon Rd., Avila Beach, 805-595-2376.

FRIDAY NIGHT HAPPY HOURS: LIVE MUSIC Enjoy Friday Night Happy Hour at Avila Bay Athletic Club. May 26 6-8 p.m., June 2 , 6-8 p.m., June 16 6-8 p.m., June 30, 6-8 p.m., July 14 6-8 p.m.,

Summer Guide 2023

SEA FOR YOURSELF

The Wildling Museum of Art and Nature in Solvang debuted its latest tower installation, Message in a Bottle by Northridge-based artist Elizabeth Criss in May. The installation will remain on display in the Michelle Kuelbs Tower Gallery through February 2024. Call (805) 688-1082 or visit wildlingmuseum.org for more info. The museum is located at 1511 Mission Drive, unit B, Solvang. —C.W.

Aug. 4 6-8 p.m., Aug. 25 , 6-8 p.m. and Sept. 1 , 6-8 p.m. Free. avilabayclub.com. Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, 805-595-7600.

JILL KNIGHT BAND: LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE Songstress Jill Knight joins forces with multi genre violinist Brynn Albanese and multi faceted guitarist/bassist/producer Eric Williams to form this most magical trio. Aug. 26 , 2-5:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

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.

KATHRYN LOOMIS & CO. AND SLO HIGH SCHOOL HONOR

JAZZ BAND Calling all jazz lovers. Don’t miss the stunning vocals of Kathryn Loomis & Co. at Pismo Vets Hall. Her classic approach and experience with the Great American Songbook will transport you to a bygone era of jazz. May 28 1-4 p.m. $10 for members; $15 for non-members. 805-937-8402. Pismo Beach Veterans Memorial Hall, 780 Bello St., Pismo Beach.

MOTHER CORN SHUCKERS LIVE Part of the Lighthouse’s live music series. Sept. 23 2-5:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

POPS-BY-THE-SEA Presented by the SLO Symphony. Sept. 2 2:45-8 p.m. my805tix.com. Avila Beach Golf Resort, 6464 Ana Bay Rd., Avila Beach, 805-595-4000.

UPSIDE SKA: LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE This band is coming with high energy dance music sure to make waves on the dance floor. June 24 2 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

VOCAL ARTS SUMMER CONCERT Features a variety of classic folk tunes. June 1 , 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Monarch Club at Trilogy Monarch Dunes, 1645 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo, 805-343-7530.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

2023 LIVE OAK MUSIC FESTIVAL Expect a fun-filled weekend of great music, art, camping, activities, and reuniting with friends and family. June 23 -25 my805tix.com. El Chorro Regional Park, California 1, San Luis Obispo.

38TH ANNUAL JAZZ PIANO SHOWCASE Presented by the SLO County Jazz Federation. The concert will feature pianists Jim Barnett, Mark Bocchicchio, George Garcia, Bob Harway, Marshall Otwell, and Paul Rinzler accompanied by Dylan Johnson on bass and Darrell Voss on drums. June 10 7:30-9:45 p.m. my805tix.com. Mount Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks St., San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY ARAB MUSIC ENSEMBLE SPRING CONCERT

Art, folk, and popular music from Arab society, as well as selected seminal pieces from the historically interconnected areas of Southwest Asia and North Africa. Dancers and critically acclaimed, and guest artists will be featured. May 27, 7:30 p.m. $20 general, $10 students. 805-7564849. pacslo.org. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY CLARINET FESTIVAL

The program will include a variety of ensembles from both on and off campus, including solos, duos, trios and quintets showcasing a variety of styles and genres of music from classical to chamber to jazz. Keith Waibel directs the Cal Poly Clarinet Ensemble. June 10 7:30 p.m. Free. 805-756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. CAL POLY SPRING JAZZ

CONCERT The Cal Poly Jazz Program’s season finale. The concert will feature Cal Poly’s Jazz Ensemble and Vocal Jazz Ensemble (MOSAIC). MOSAIC will perform works from its soon-to-be released album. May 26 7:30 p.m. $15 and $20 general, $10 students and Jazz Federation members. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly. edu/calendar/jazz/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., 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.

CAL POLY’S RSVP: SOUNDINGS The Cal Poly Music Department will present multimedia works by music technology and composition students. In this program, students will collaborate with guest ensemble line upon line to premiere original interdisciplinary works for interactive media. With dance choreographed by Evan Ricuarté. June 1 -2, 7:30 p.m. $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/ calendar/rsvp/. PAC Pavilion, Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo.

CLINTON DAVIS STRING BAND: PRESENTED BY 7 SISTERS

FOLKLORE SOCIETY Enjoy some old time fiddle and banjo breakdowns. June 13 , 7-9 p.m. $20. eventbrite.com. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, 805-544-9096.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitar-woven indie music that has an authentic feel and is easy to listen to, but also surprises. May 27 5-8 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com/. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-2337.

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

FAMILY CONCERT: APPALACHIAN SPRING Scott Yoo and Ryan Lawrence lead a family friendly performance of Aaron Copland’s ballet Appalachian Spring. This concert is open for all ages will last under one hour without an intermission. July 22 11 a.m.-

noon All tickets $5; children sitting on a lap do not need a ticket. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

FILIPPONI RANCH WINERY WITH THE SKYLITES Enjoy some Sunday afternoon music with The SkyLites at a beautiful outdoor venue in the canyon behind the fabulous Filipponi Ranch Winery.

July 23 1-4 p.m. Filipponi Ranch, 1850 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo.

GOOD FRUIT: A SLO FOOD BANK BENEFIT WITH MOTHER HIPS, WOLF JETT, THE SILENT COMEDY Visit site for tickets, package options, and more info. June 2 7-10 p.m. $25-$280. slobrew.com. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843.

THE GREEN July 7, 7 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600, fremontslo.com.

KT TUNSTALL LIVE June 9 8 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600, fremontslo.com.

LADY WRAY WITH BRAINSTORY Like most artists, Nicole Wray’s life in music has always reflected her real life. Aug. 2 , 7-10 p.m. $25. slobrew.com. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843.

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.

MATT AXTON LIVE Songwriters at Play presents Matt Axton and his band Badmoon. July 8 6 p.m. my805tix.com. SLO Wine and Beer Company, 3536 S. Higuera St., suite 250, San Luis Obispo, 805-544-9463.

MIKE LOVE AND THE FULL CIRCLE Mike Love is a musician devoted to revolution through sound. Born in O’ahu, Hawai’i to a family of musicians, Mike has used music as a conversation for as long as he can remember. June 22 7-10 p.m. $30. slobrew.com. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843. MOZART IN THE MISSION Join the Festival musicians for this annual concert presenting Mozart and more in our historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. July 25 , 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets start at $29. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

NOTABLE INSIGHT: STRAVINSKY’S A SOLDIER’S TALE Scott Yoo guides you on a tour into the music of Stravinsky’s “A Soldier’s Tale.” He will discuss the history surrounding the piece, Stravinsky’s influences and musical style, and the ensemble will perform some selections. July 27, 2-4 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

POLYRHYTHMICS Polyrhythmics’ sound originated in Seattle’s underground deep funk scene, combining impossibly tight grooves with bold brass and hypnotic percussion. June 21 7-10 p.m. $20. slobrew.com. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843.

POPS ON! ORCHESTRA NOVO GOES HOLLYWOOD: THE SEQUEL Picnics and non-alcoholic beverages welcome. Wine, beer, and spirits available for purchase from Madonna Inn. Aug. 6 4-6 p.m. $40 individual; $400 table of 10. 805-458-2080. orchestranovo.com/concerts/. Madonna Inn Expo Center, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

REBELS AND RENEGADES PRESENTS CHARLES WESLEY GODWIN Aug. 23 , 8 p.m. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600, fremontslo.com.

RESONANCE PRESENTS: BEYOND “To infinity and beyond.” Aug. 12 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 781-8220.

SONGWRITERS AT PLAY TRIBUTE TO CHRIS STAPLETON AND BRANDI CARLILE July 8 5 p.m. my805tix.com. SLO Wine and Beer Company, 3536 S. Higuera St., suite 250, San Luis Obispo, 805-544-9463.

VOCAL ARTS SUMMER CONCERT Features a variety of classic folk tunes. June 3 3 p.m. my805tix.com. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo. WARD DAVIS Davis has had songs recorded by Trace Adkins, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Wade Hayes, Sammy Kershaw, Bucky Covington, Jimmie Van Zant, Buddy Jewel, Carolina Rain, The Roys, and more. June 10 7-10 p.m. $20-$100. slobrew.com. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-1843. NORTH SLO COUNTY

ABYSSAL, LACERATION, ISINERATEHYMN, AND POXX Presented by Mid State Metal Fest. June 16 -17, 8 p.m. my805tix. com. Dark Nectar Coffee Lounge, 5915 Entrada, Atascadero, 805-835-1988.

BAROQUE IN THE VINES Scott Yoo leads this annual Baroque concert at the beautiful hilltop setting of Serra Chapel. Enjoy concertos for flute, bassoon, and cello. July 29 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets start at $67. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Serra Chapel, McMillan Canyon Rd., Shandon.

BAROQUE JUBILATION Maestro Magie leads the orchestra. With works by Vivaldi, Bach, Handel, and others. May 28 3 p.m. my805tix.com. Mission San Miguel Arcángel, 775 Mission St., San Miguel.

BARREL ROOM CONCERT: THE ROCKIN B’S Part of the venue’s monthly concert series. June 25 4-6 p.m. my805tix.com. Cass Winery and Vineyard, 7350 Linne Rd., Paso Robles.

CHAMBER CONCERT 3: MISSION SAN MIGUEL Festival Mozaic returns to Mission San Miguel Arcángel for an afternoon of chamber music for piano and strings. Pianists Stewart Goodyear and John Novacek will lead works by Fauré and Brahms. July 26 4-6 p.m. Tickets start at $29. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Mission San Miguel Arcángel, 775 Mission St., San Miguel. DEADSTOCK 2023 With 12 lethal bands from across the state. July 27-29 my805tix.com. Dark Nectar Coffee Lounge, 5915 Entrada, Atascadero, 805-835-1988.

MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: ALEX WASSERMAN After his Festival Mozaic debut in 2022, pianist Alex Wasserman returns to the Midday Mini-Concert series for a recital of works for solo piano. July 26 , 12-1 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cass Winery and Vineyard, 7350 Linne Rd., Paso Robles.

RINGO STARR AND HIS ALL STARR BAND June 16 , 8 p.m. Vina Robles Amphitheatre, 3800 Mill Rd., Paso Robles, 805-286-3680, vinaroblesamphitheatre.com.

LIVE MUSIC continued page 16

JULY 12-16,

SCHEDULE

WEDNESDAY | JULY 12 - 5 BEFORE 5

$5 Admission FOR ALL before 5pm

Tributes to the Eagles & Creedence Clearwater Revival

THURSDAY | JULY 13 - SENIORS DAY

$5 Admission FOR SENIORS (62+) before 5pm

Ashley McBryde

FRIDAY | JULY 14 - CATTLEMAN’S DAY

FREE Admission for Youth (6-11) ALL DAY

Uncle Kracker

SATURDAY | JULY 15 - MILITARY & LAW

ENFORCEMENT DAY

FREE Admission with valid ID ALL DAY

Switchfoot

SUNDAY | JULY 16 - FIESTA DAY

ATTRACTIONS

Axe Throwing

A Walk on the Wild SideEducational Animal Exhibit

Flo the Clown

Tyzen - Master Hypnotist

Trackless Train

PRE-SALE TICKETS

*Pre-sale tickets available 24 hours a day online (June 9 - July 9)

Adults (12-61) $13

Youth (Ages 6-11) $11

Seniors (62+) $11

Carnival Wristband $35

TICKETS AT THE GATE

Adults (12-61) $16

Youth (Ages 6-11) $14

Seniors (62+) $14

Kids (5 & Under) FREE

Carnival Wristband $45

Daily Parking $10

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

EASTON EVERETT Everett plays guitar-woven indie music that has an authentic feel and is easy to listen to, but also surprises. May 28 6-8 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com/. Libertine Brewing Co. (Morro Bay), 801 Embarcadero Way, Morro Bay, 805-772-0700.

LIVE MUSIC WITH GUITAR WIZ AT LUNADA GARDEN BISTRO

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

MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: EUNICE KIM AND JOHN NOVACEK

Violinist Eunice Kim and pianist John Novacek collaborate on a mini-recital of works for violin and piano. July 25, 12-1 p.m.

Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Trinity United Methodist Church, 490 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos.

MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: FEI XIE Fei Xie, principal bassoonist of the Minnesota Orchestra, performs a mini-recital of music for bassoon and piano, joined by pianist Chiao Wen Cheng. July 28 12-1 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Community Presbyterian Church of Cambria, 2250 Yorkshire Dr., Cambria.

MORRO BAY WHITE CAPS COMMUNITY BAND CONCERT

Under the direction of Keith Waibel, the Morro Bay White Caps Community Band will perform a variety of music including pops, classical, and jazz selections. June 3 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; donations accepted. 916-337-9046. Embarcadero Morro Bay, 714 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.

LocaL concert SerieS

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 SHAY MOULDER Come and witness the very talented and entertaining Shay playing her ukulele and keyboard. June 3 , 6-9 p.m. Free. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF BUZZ

Summer Guide 2023

5:30-8:30 p.m. The Homestead, 105 W. Clark Ave, Old Orcutt, 805287-9891, thehomesteadoldorcutt.com.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

PACIFIC BREEZE CONCERT SERIES FEATURING THE MOTHER CORN SHUCKERS City of Pismo Beach presents the Pacific Breeze Concert Series with the Mother Corn Shuckers. Live Music, activities for kids, and food available for purchase. June 11 , 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-773-7063. pismobeach.org/recreation.

Dinosaur Caves Park, 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach.

PACIFIC BREEZE CONCERT SERIES WITH DANTE MARSH AND THE VIBE SETTERS City of Pismo Beach present the Pacific Breeze Concert Series with Dante Marsh and the Vibe Setters. Live Music, activities for kids, and food available for purchase. July 9, 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-773-7063. pismobeach.org/recreation.

Dinosaur Caves Park, 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach. STONE SOUP MUSIC FESTIVAL takes over the Ramona Garden Park and surrounding streets in Grover Beach. Aug. 26 , 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Aug. 27 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/about/stone-soup-music-festival/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

Ancient Owl Beer Garden in Atascadero hosts its upcoming Beer Yoga event on Saturday, June 3, from 10 to 11 a.m. Tickets to the event, for ages 21 and over, are available in advance for $22.50 at my805tix.com. Admission to the yoga session includes a glass of ice-cold draft beer. Ancient Owl Garden is located at 6090 El Camino Real, Atascadero.

Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

ROUND TWO OF SONGWRITERS AT PLAY SONG CONTEST

Monthly song contest continues at High Roller Tiki Lounge in Solvang. No cover charge, no entry fee. Up to 10 contestants, 2 songs each, 3 judges, 3 prizes. For ages 21 and over. June 19 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.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

LIVE MUSIC BY DOUG MACRAI May 26 6-9 p.m. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

LIVE MUSIC BY RANDY LEDUNE June 2 Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

SANTA MARIA CONCERTS IN THE PARK: FATHERS DAY WITH

THE THE SKYLITES A live outdoor concert. June 18 , 1-3 p.m. Rotary Centennial Park, 2625 South College Dr., Santa Maria.

THE SKYLITES AT THE HOMESTEAD SUMMER CONCERT

SERIES Enjoy music with The SkyLites on the patio. June 24

BROOKS BURGERS: SLO PUBLIC MARKET SUMMER CONCERT SERIES WITH THE SKYLITES Have fun on the outdoor patio with great food, drinks, and The SkyLites at Brooks Burgers. Aug. 12 2-5 p.m. Brooks Burgers, 134 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-3092.

CAL POLY CHOIRS’ SPRING CONCERT: ‘IN HER WORDS’ WITH NAIROBI’S BEL CANTO CHORUS The Cal Poly Choirs will host the Bel Canto Chorus, a very special guest ensemble from Nairobi, Kenya, for its season finale. The concert will focus on the words of female poets. The Tucson Arizona Girls Chorus will also be featured. June 4 , 3 p.m. $15 and $20 general; $10 students. 805756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/choirs/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY SYMPHONY SPRING CONCERT: SCHEHERAZADE AND OSQUEEZADEH The first half will feature works by Bahram Osqueezadeh who will perform his “Concerto for Santur and Orchestra” and guest vocalist Alireza Shahmohammadi will sing Osqueezadeh’s “Rational Insanity.” After intermission, the orchestra will present Russian composer Rimsky-Korsakov’s

LIVE MUSIC: LOCAL CONCERT SERIES continued page 17

Summer Ballet Camp

Session

-

“Scheherazade” based on “One Thousand and One Nights.” June 3 7:30 p.m. $15 and $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. music. calpoly.edu. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

CHAMBER CONCERT 1: HUMMEL, FRANÇAIX, AND BEETHOVEN This program celebrates the quintet. July 23 , 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets start at $29. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org.

Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

CHAMBER CONCERT 4: A SOLDIER’S TALE The 2023 Chamber Concert series ends with a performance of Stravinsky’s cautionary story about a soldier who trades his fiddle to the devil. July 28 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

FESTIVAL MOZAIC OPENING NIGHT: APPALACHIAN SPRING To celebrate the opening of the 2023 Summer Music Festival, Scott Yoo and the Festival musicians will join forces with the Movement Arts Collective for a new setting of Copland’s Appalachian Spring, choreographed by Ryan Lawrence. July 22 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets start at $29. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

LIVE MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO. Visit Ragtag Wine Co.’s tasting room to enjoy tunes from favorite local musicians. Wine available by the tasting flight, glass, or bottle. ThursdaysSaturdays, 6-9 p.m. Free. 805-439-0774. ragtagwineco.com/visit.

Ragtag Wine Co., 779 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: KO-ICHIRO YAMAMOTO Ko-ichiro Yamamoto, principal trombonist of the Seattle Symphony, joins pianist Chiao Wen Cheng for a recital of music for trombone and piano. July 27, 12-1 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.

MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: STEWART GOODYEAR Featured

Guest Artist, pianist Stewart Goodyear, presents a free recital of works for solo piano. July 24 , 12-1 p.m. Tickets start at $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

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, 805439-0774, ragtagwineco.com.

TheaTer and Comedy

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

AMERICAN MARIACHI: SOLVANG An uplifting comedy about family, the freedom to go after your dreams, and the music that unites us. Wednesdays-Sundays, 8 p.m. through Aug. 27 Starting at $25. 805-922-8313. pcpa.org/events/american-mariachi.

Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

BRIGHT STAR Steve Martin and Edie Brickell’s Grammy and Tonynominated musical weaves toe-tapping bluegrass and incredible true events into a rich, refreshingly genuine journey along the Blue Ridge Mountains. July 7 8-10 p.m., July 8 8-10 p.m., July 9 8-10 p.m., July 13, 8-10 p.m., July 14, 8-10 p.m., July 15, 8-10 p.m., July 16, 8-10 p.m., July 20, 8-10 p.m., July 21, 8-10 p.m., July 22 8 a.m.-10 p.m. and July 23 8-10 p.m. Starting at $25. 805-922-8313. pcpa.org.

Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

EMMA Romantic misadventures, misplaced confidence, and matchmaking in the town of Highbury. The West Coast Premiere of a charming adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel. June 22 , 8 p.m., June 23 , 8 p.m., June 24 8 p.m., June 25 8 p.m., June 29, 8 p.m., June 30 8 p.m., July 1 8 p.m. and July 2 , 8 p.m. Starting at $25. 805-922-8313. pcpa.org/events/emma. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

LAUGH THERAPY: STAND UP COMEDY 2023 Features a lineup of hilarious comedians. Visit site for tickets and more info. May 31 8-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, 805-686-4785.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

OOH LA LA: A NIGHT OF BURLESQUE HEELS STYLE A classy evening of burlesque. For ages 18 and over. This show does not contain nudity. June 10, 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

AMERICAN MARIACHI: SANTA MARIA An uplifting comedy about family, the freedom to go after your dreams, and the music that unites us. By José Cruz Gonzalez. July 13 7 p.m., July 14 7 p.m., July 15 7 p.m., July 16 1:30 p.m., July 19 1:30 p.m., July 21 7 p.m., July 22 1:30 & 7 p.m., July 23 1:30 p.m., July 26 1:30 p.m., July 28 7 p.m. and July 29, 1:30 & 7 p.m. Starting at $25. 805922-8313. pcpa.org/events/american-mariachi. PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria.

THE BOOK OF WILL By Lauren Gunderson. William Shakespeare is dead. Bad Hamlet knock-offs and children’s acting troupes litter the stages of Elizabethan London. And the King’s Men are running out of time. Rooted in real events. Aug. 17 7 p.m., Aug. 18 , 7 p.m., Aug. 19, 7 p.m., Aug. 20, 1:30 p.m., Aug. 23 , 1:30 p.m., Aug. 25 , 7 p.m. and Aug. 26 , 1:30 & 7 p.m. Starting at $25. 805922-8313. pcpa.org/events/the-book-of-will. PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria.

FIND YOUR MAGIC WITH SEAN MCMASTER Join Shawn McMaster as he presents a comedy magic show and teaches amazing magic tricks that can be done at home. For families of all ages. This program was supported in whole or in part by the Santa Maria Friends of the Library. June 16 11 a.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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.

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.

TEEN OPEN MIC NIGHT Hey teens, got talent to share? All talents are welcome, including bands, cosplay, and fashion, poets, singers, musicians, magicians, etc. Come show off in a supportive and exciting environment and make this a truly unforgettable night. Light snacks will be served. July 28 5:30-8 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Shepard Hall Art Gallery - Santa Maria Public Library, 421 South McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

GOLD FEVER AT THE ROUGH AND READY Boo the villain and cheer the hero at this show full of colorful characters. July 21Sept. 9 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

LATE NITE CATECHISM Presented by Entertainment Events, Inc., this comedy is an uproarious piece of theater that takes audience members back — sometimes nostalgically, sometimes fearfully— to the children they once were. The irrepressible Sister teaches an adult catechism class to a roomful of

“students” (the audience). June 10 7-9:30 p.m. $45-$65. 805489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/late-nite-catechism/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. 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-the-prom/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

RISE Presented by FLEX Performing Arts. A dance and music spectacular featuring the students of FLEX Performing Arts. June 23 , 6-8 p.m., June 24 , 1-3 & 6:30-8:30 p.m. and June 25 , 3-5 p.m. $3-$25. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/flexperforming-arts-rise/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SEX N’ THE CITY An unauthorized musical parody of the popular HBO show presented by Entertainment Events, Inc. July 14 8-10 p.m. $45-$65. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/sex-n-thecity/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SLEEPING BEAUTY This Tchaikovsky/Petipa masterpiece is one of best-loved ballets. The role of Princess Aurora will be alternately performed by two members of the Santa Maria Civic Ballet. June 3 6-8 p.m. and June 4 , 3-5 p.m. $20-$25. 805-4899444. clarkcenter.org/shows/everybody-can-dance-sleepingbeauty/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY JAMBOREE GROVER BEACH A show that blends the best in touring headliners with local comedians. June 7, 8-9:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Ribline by the Beach, 395 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

UNDER THE BOARDWALK Visit site for tickets and more info on the show. May 26 -July 15 americanmelodrama.com/. Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

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

THEATER AND COMEDY continued page 18

Entries to our annual 55 Fiction writing contest are accepted all year long.

Stories submitted by 5 p.m. Monday, June 19, 2023 will be considered for this year’s publications.

Winning stories will be published on July 27, 2023

For more details: bit.ly/55Fiction

Summer Guide 2023

Summer Guide 2023

GRILL TO THRILL

In celebration of Father’s Day, the Cuyama Buckhorn in New Cuyama will host its Chuckwagon Barbecue event on Sunday, June 18, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission to the barbecue, which will also include live music and other festivities, is $30. Visit cuyamabuckhorn.com to find out more. The Cuyama Buckhorn is located at 4923 Primero St., New Cuyama. —C.W.

THEATER AND COMEDY from page 17

COMEDY NIGHT Professional comedy show featuring local and touring comics. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. First and Third Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. $5. 805-540-8300. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo, bangthedrumbrewery.com.

HONK JR. Presented by the San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre. July 14 -23 SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-7862440, slorep.org/.

IMPROV COMEDY SHOW Enjoy live, improvised comedy shows that utilize audience suggestions, wine and beer, and food from Wicked Garden in a casual setting. Thursdays, noon through May 26 $10. 805-858-8255. centralcoastcomedytheater.com/ shows. SLO Wine and Beer Company, 3536 S. Higuera St., suite 250, San Luis Obispo.

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.

ONCE, THE MUSICAL Presented by the San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre. June 9 -July 2 SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-786-2440, slorep.org/.

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

OPEN MIC NIGHT IN THE TASTING ROOM Kelsey Rae hosts this open mic event for music and comedy in the tasting room. Second and Fourth Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. Free show. 805-7216878. SLO Cider, 3419 Roberto Ct., Suite C, San Luis Obispo.

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

SLOFUNNY COMEDY JAMBOREE SLO A show that blends the best in touring headliners with local comedians. June 8 8-9:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Highwater SLO, 1127 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. STONES IN HIS POCKETS Presented by the San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre. Aug. 11-27 SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-786-2440, slorep.org/.

SUMMER 2023 THEATRE CAMPS SLO REP’s Academy of Creative Theatre presents fun theatre camps for all ages and levels of experience, taught by professional teaching artists. Check site or call for camp dates. June 1 - Aug. 1 slorep.org. San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre, 3533 Empleo St., San Luis Obispo.

Summer movieS

TEEN ANIME CLUB Teens who are interested in anime or manga, come to Anime Club. Hang out with other fans, eat Japanese snacks, and do fun activities. New members are always welcome. June 16, 4 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org.

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

TEEN CARTOON AFTERNOON Why should kids have all the fun? Teens, come to the Library to hang out, watch cartoons, and play childhood games. Cereal will be served. June 23 , 3 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Shepard Hall Art GallerySanta Maria Public Library, 421 South McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

FILM PRESENTATION: AMADEUS Festival Mozaic and SLO Film Festival present a screening of the 1984 film that follows the story of composers Mozart and Salieri. July 25 2-4 p.m. Tickets are $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.

FILM PRESENTATION: TÁR Festival Mozaic and the Film Festival present a screening of the Academy Award-winning film following the life of a female orchestra conductor. Starring Cate Blanchett. July 28 2-4 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.

Summer Art

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

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

MUSIC IS LOVE: PHOTOGRAPHS BY HENRY DILTZ Opening reception will be held on May 26, from 7 to 9 p.m. May 26 - Aug. 13 elverhoj.org. Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, 805-686-1211.

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 31 805-688-7517. 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

PAINT AND PAPER With paintings created with origami paper, Japanese stamps, and acrylic paint, as well as 3D pieces. June 29 -July 30, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc, 805-705-5328, lompocart.org.

SUMMER ART continued page 20

A brief story, fifty-five words or less, with a headline no longer than seven words.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

2023 NUESTRA LOTERIA GALLERY View the Loteria Exhibit, which features the works of students from Ernest Righetti High School and Santa Maria High School. June 2 , 6 p.m. Free. 209312-8653. corazondelpueblo.org/nuestra-loteria. Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria.

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. 805-9250951. 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.

CARDBOARD CREATION FAMILY PACK Let your imagination soar, sharpen your engineering skills, and work as a team to build your own cardboard creation as a family. Please limit one pack per family. For families of all ages. July 22 , 10 a.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

CRAFTWORKS: DECO MESH WREATHS Make a wreath for any season in this free workshop for adults 18 and older. Using colorful deco mesh, create a homemade wreath to take home. All materials will be provided. Registration is required. Aug. 12 , 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. cityofsantamaria.org/city-government/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-925-0994.

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/.

DESIGN YOUR OWN GREETING CARD TO-GO KITS: ORCUTT, LOS ALAMOS, CUYAMA BRANCHES Design your own greeting cards. Different materials will be assembled in a to-go kit for you to create a few unique designs. Pick up begins on July 10, while

PADDLE UP, PARTNER

lantern. Pick up begins Aug. 14, while supplies last. For patrons 18 and older. Aug. 14 Free. cityofsantamaria.org/city-government/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-925-0994.

LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE: WEST COAST SWING

Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45 p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 805-344-1630. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.

PRESCHOOL ART TIME Assist your preschooler in creating a masterpiece. Preschool Art Time focuses on building fine motor skills. Encourage creativity and explore different mediums. Come dressed for mess. For ages 3-5. June 5 11 a.m. Free. 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SATURDAY CRAFTERNOON: ART BAZAAR OPEN

Summer Guide 2023

The city of San Luis Obispo will hold pickleball classes for beginners at Meadow Park every Saturday at 9:30 a.m., from Saturday, July 22, through Saturday, Oct. 14. Participants will learn about the basics of pickleball. Visit slocity.org for more info on the series, open to ages 18 and over. Meadow Park is located at 2251 Meadow St., San Luis Obispo.

supplies last. For patrons 18 and older. July 10 cityofsantamaria. org/city-government/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-925-0994.

FAMILY CRAFT TIME Get creative with an afternoon of Arts and Crafts. Try out a new medium, make something amazing together, and take home a piece of art. All skillsets are welcome. For families of all ages. June 6 , 3 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Families, get creative with an afternoon of

arts and crafts. Try out a new medium, make something amazing together, and take home a piece of art. All skillsets are welcome. June 6 3 p.m., July 11 3 p.m. and Aug. 1 3 p.m. 805-925-0994. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

FELT MINI LANTERN TO-GO KITS: ORCUTT, LOS ALAMOS, CUYAMA BRANCHES Light up the night with these felt mini lanterns. To-go kits will be available for pick up to make a felt

WORKSHOP Relive pasts crafts or try something new. Registration is required. For patrons 18 and older. Aug. 26 Free. cityofsantamaria.org/city-government/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-925-0994.

SATURDAY CRAFTERNOON: DUCT TAPE CRAFTS Learn two fun ways to use duct tape. Be creative making colorful pouches and bookmarks using duct tape and other materials. Registration is required. For patrons 18 and older. July 15 Free. cityofsantamaria.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-925-0994.

SATURDAY CRAFTERNOON: TISSUE PAPER FLOWERS Learn how to make flowers from tissue paper. All materials will be supplied at the workshop. Registration required. For patrons 18 and older. June 17, 2:30-4 p.m. Free. cityofsantamaria.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-925-0994.

SUMMER READING KICK OFF EVENT: FIND YOUR VOICE Kick off the annual Summer Reading Program with stories, books, authors, animals, and more. Sign up for summer reading, read with a therapy dog, complete a scavenger hunt, and participate in fun crafts. All ages are welcome. June 10 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Shepard Hall Art Gallery - Santa Maria Public Library, 421 South McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SUMMER ART continued page 21

TEEN ART TIME Teens, create artwork, learn about artists, and experiment with new mediums in an inspiring environment with other teen artists. All skillsets are welcome. June 8 , 4 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Teens, create artwork, learn about artists, and experiment with new media in an inspiring environment with other teen artists. All skillsets are welcome. July 6 , 4 p.m. and Aug. 3 , 4 p.m. 805-925-0994. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

TISSUE PAPER FLOWER TO-GO KITS: ORCUTT, LOS ALAMOS, CUYAMA BRANCHES Learn the art of tissue paper flower folding. Instructions for several methods will be given to create a beautiful bouquet that will never wilt. All materials will be provided. Pick up begins June 12, while supplies last. For patrons ages 18 and older. June 12 Free. cityofsantamaria.org/citygovernment/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-925-0994.

YOUTH ARTS ALIVE FREE SUMMER ARTS CLASSES Free classes for children 8-18 years of age in singing, drumming, guitar, ukulele, ballet folklorico, hip hop and modern dance, theatre games, pottery, painting, and drawing at Minami Community Center, Newlove Center, and Robert Grogan Park Center. Mondays-Thursdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. through July 27 Free. 805-930-9029. youthartsalive.org. Minami Community Center, 600 W. Enos Drive, Santa Maria.

YOUTH SEW MUCH FUN CLUB Youth will learn to sew, and practice sewing skills at the library. Learn the basics of a machine and sewing by hand, or practice skills with the club. Materials will be provided. Youth are welcome to bring fabric from home. June 21 3 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

sawing, filing, forming, and soldering skills. June 10, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $150. 805-752-1188. theavilagallery.com/classes/. Studio Avila, 66 Landing Passage, Avila Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

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

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

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY

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

CALL FOR ARTISTS: SLO GROWN (LANDSCAPE EXHIBIT)

Looking for artist to submit artwork that showcases our agricultural landscapes from vineyards to pastures for our July/ Aug. exhibit. Accepting all media. July 5 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Entry fees vary. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/gallery/call-for-artists/.

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

CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-onone and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing 805-835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

sloma.org/visit/tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

INTERMEDIATE OIL PAINTING: ADULT ART CLASS This class is for students who may have tried oil painting in the past but are looking to advance their skill levels. Color theory and proportion study will be a focus. Mondays, 2-5 p.m. $30 per student or $75 for 3 classes. 805-747-4200. 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. 805-747-4200. 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. 702-3350730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

JOHN BARRETT John Barrett was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1952 and grew up in Manhattan Beach, California. He began pursuing his career as an artist in the late 1960s influenced by his great-grandfather, a painter. Sept. 1 - Nov. 27, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/john-barrett/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. 805-441-8257.

Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.

own beloved pet and creating a one-of-a-kind masterpiece at Art Central. June 4, 1-3 p.m. $40 per person. 805-747-4200. artsocial805.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden. Second Saturday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $75 per picket or 2 for $100. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

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

POTTERY CLASS MONDAYS Nesting Hawk Ranch offers three separate pottery classes every Monday, for ages 5-7 (9-10 a.m.), ages 8 and older (10:30 a.m.-noon), and throwing classes ages for ages 14 and older (1-2:30 p.m.). Mondays. through June 26 $40-$50. 702-335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

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

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.

SOLDERING 101 Learn how to make a set of stacking rings using tools and techniques of the bench jeweler. Time will be spent on bench safety in the studio, metalsmith tools and terms, cutting,

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

FREE DOCENT TOURS Gain a deeper understanding of the artwork on view with SLOMA’s new docent tours. Every Saturday, join trained guides for interactive and engaging tours of SLOMA’s current exhibitions. ongoing, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. 805-543-8562.

LISA SOLOMON Solomon’s mixed media works revolve thematically around discovering her heritage, the notion of domesticity, craft, feminism, and the pursuit of art as science/ research. June 2- Aug. 28 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/lisa-solomon/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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

PAINT YOUR PET WITH ART SOCIAL 805 Join Art Social 805 as they walk you through the process of painting your very

RAINBOW MACRAME PLANT HANGER CLASS Come celebrate PRIDE month at The Bunker SLO with a Rainbow Macrame Plant Hanger Class. This event is open to the public and is a great way to get creative. June 4 4-6 p.m. and June 8 , 6:30 p.m. my805tix. com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, 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.

SECOND SATURDAYS AT SLOMA Intergenerational learning and creative expression for children of all ages. Families are invited to SLOMA’s lawn to learn about the visual arts together SUMMER ART continued page 22

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

using our unique activity kits and create an art project inspired by our exhibitions. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/events/second-saturdays/.

San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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

SLO 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 Monday, 5-7 p.m. and Every other Thursday, 5-7 p.m. through Dec. 31 $20 per session; or $60 for a month pass. 805-747-4200. instagram.com/ slodrawz/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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.

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

VANESSA WALLACE-GONZALES Wallace-Gonzales is a BlackLatinx and Santa Barbara-based artist who uses elements of mythology to explore her identity and personal experiences. July 7- Oct. 2 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/ exhibition/vanessa-wallace-gonzales/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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

Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

WALT WHITMAN GAY MEN’S BOOK CLUB This club reads, studies and discusses books chosen by the group which relate to their lives as gay men. All are welcome. Second Monday of every month, 7-9:30 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

LET THE SUNSHINE IN

FINE ART WATERCOLORS BY VIRGINIA MACK Virginia, along with her late husband John, also an artist, have spent endless hours exploring the back roads of San Luis Obispo County seeking those bits of landscape and the birds that are visually stimulating or interesting. Virginia works primarily in watercolors. Aug. 1-29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. 805-772-9095. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

Summer Guide 2023

The Sunburst Retreat Center in Lompoc hosts its Music and Nature Retreat for youth (ages 12 and older) starting on Friday, June 23, and running through Sunday, June 25. The weekend-long camp includes hiking activities, songs, and more. Visit sunburst.org for registration details. The Sunburst Retreat Center is located at 7200 Highway 1, Lompoc.

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

COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Jewett’s work is also on display at Nautical Bean in Laguna shopping center during February. ThursdaysSaturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559-799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

FIBER ART BY GAY MCNEAL McNeal possesses an appreciation of the multifaceted role that fiber has played in the art and material cultures of many ethnic societies, and her creative high comes from the actual process of trying out the multitude of techniques, both old and new. Aug. 1-30 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

movement. Like the rise and fall of a crescendo, the sea bestows a feeling of increasing intensity with a dramatic force that feels exhilarating, captivating, yet terrifyingly beautiful,” Newton stated. July 1 -29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHY RUSS The visual artistry of Russ’s work is born of a keen eye for the unusual and a lifelong passion for the outdoors. Mondays, Tuesdays, ThursdaysSundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through June 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY SIRAGUSA Gregory

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS AN OPENING RECEPTION FOR CATHY RUSS, DEBBIE GEDAYLOO, AND STEVIE CHUN Come meet the artists, have a snack, and bring some beautiful art home. June 10 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

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

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.

MORRO BAY ART IN THE PARK Morro Bay Art in the Park is the second oldest art show in the state of California. This event was established in 1955 and is in its 68th annual year. 100 fine artists from all over California attend this event Sept. 2 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sept. 3 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sept. 4 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. morrobayartinthepark.com. Morro Bay City Park, Corner of Morro Bay Blvd. and Harbor St., Morro Bay.

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 10 a.m.-5 p.m., May 28 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and May 29 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Morro Bay City Park, Corner of Morro Bay Blvd. and Harbor St., Morro Bay.

MORRO BAY ART IN THE PARK: JULY This event was established in 1955 and is in its 68th annual year. 100 fine artists from all over California attend this event July 1 10 a.m.-5 p.m., July 2 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and July 3 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Morro Bay City Park, Corner of Morro Bay Blvd. and Harbor St., Morro Bay.

CITY AND COUNTRY

An exciting collection of watercolor and oil paintings by Frank Eber and Ken Christensen. Through June 3 Free. 805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org/events/city-andcountry/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

DEPRISE BRESCIA ART GALLERY: OPEN DAILY Features a large selection of encaustic art, sculpted paintings, art installations, acrylic palette knife paintings, digital art, glass, jewelry, stones, fossils, and a butterfly sculpture garden. ongoing DepriseBrescia.com. Deprise Brescia Art Gallery, 829 10th St., Paso Robles, 310-621-7543.

INTRO TO CERAMIC HAND BUILDING In this class, students will learn how to create functional and sculptural pottery using traditional hand-building techniques such as pinching, coiling, slab construction, and surface decoration. This class is open to adults of all ages and abilities. Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m. through June 6 $260. 805-460-6803. thepotteryatascadero.com. The Pottery, 5983 Entrada Ave., Atascadero.

MOSAIC SEAHORSE WORKSHOP Evoke the magic of the ocean with this beautiful wooden seahorse mosaic project. This is a two-day workshop. The first day we will design and glue, the second day we will grout. All materials included. May 27, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and May 28 12-1 p.m. $125. 805-464-2633. glassheadstudio.com. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, Atascadero.

ON THE OTHER HAND Explore the possibilities of creating art using your non-dominant hand. Studies have shown that by using your other hand, you activate a different part of your brain. Attendees will safely create fused glass designs using pre-cut glass and observe how they feel. May 31 10 a.m.-noon $45. 805464-2633. glassheadstudio.com. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, Atascadero.

STUDIOS ON THE PARK: CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS Check site for a variety of classes and workshops offered. ongoing studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles, 805-238-9800.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ASSEMBLAGES OF STEVE DAYTON Steve divides his time between creating assemblages and abstract painting on wood panels. The assemblages are made by taking small hand built familiar objects and motifs and placing them in box frames to create absurd scenes that include absurd and humorous titles. Aug. 1-29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, 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 OIL PAINTINGS BY PATRICIA NEWTON “The ocean is a favorite subject of mine with its calming, yet powerful

Summer Guide 2023

THINK BIG

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

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.

The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens Club presents its first dance concert of the summer— featuring the Riptide Big Band—at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center on Sunday, June 11, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Admission to the dance is free, thanks to support from the Community Foundation of SLO County. Visit riptidebb.com for more info. the Elwin Mussell Senior Center is located at 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria. —C.W.

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. ongoing, 1-4 p.m. $60. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org/index.php/workshops/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

OPENING RECEPTION FOR GAY MCNEAL, VIRGINIA MACK, AND STEVE DAYTON Come meet the artists, have a snack, and bring some beautiful art home. Aug. 12 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

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

PAPER, FELT, AND FIBER ART BY DEBBIE GEDAYLOO “Most of my artistic inspiration comes from nature and my desire to create joy and happiness. My art is based on a foundation of respect for nature and the necessity of our being good stewards of the planet,” the artist stated. Mondays, Tuesdays, ThursdaysSundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through June 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

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

ROCK ON MOSAICS Learn mosaic basics to create a one-ofa-kind project. You’ll have many colors, baubles, and beads to choose from to create a custom piece. June 24 , 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Various. 805-286-5993. CreativeMeTime.com. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

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

SUMMER ART continued page 24

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SUNBURST RETREAT CENTER

PHOTO COURTESY OF JUDY LINDQUIST

Motown · Latin Fusion · Bluegrass· Funk

R&B · Cuban Latin · Rock & Roll · Reggae and More!

Greg Adams & East Bay Soul

Funk, Jazz

Sunday, June 4 at 5 pm

Brass Mash

Brass Ensemble

Sunday, June 25 at 3 pm

The Storytellers

Bluegrass

Sunday, July 23 at 3 pm

Yamila Guerra

Cuban Latin Orchestra

Sunday, Aug. 20 at 3 pm

Mambo Soul

Latin Fusion

Sunday, June 11 at 3 pm

Doctor Wu

Steely Dan Tribute

Sunday, July 9 at 3 pm

Blue Breeze Band

Motown, R&B

SundayAug. 6 at 3 pm

Soul Majestic

Roots Reggae

Sunday, Sept. 3 at 3 pm

Summer '23 Concert Series

General Admission

$37/ ticket

Concert Package

$185 for all 8 shows

Solvang Festival Theater

Greg Adams

Soul Majestic

The Storytellers

Yamila Guerra

Volunteers Needed!

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

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

TRY BEGINNING FUSED GLASS WITH LARRY LE BRANE No previous art skills needed to make fused glass home-garden décor, gifts, dishware, and jewelry. Fun happens on 3 Saturdays: June 10, 17, and 24. $165 fee includes all materials. Class size is 4-6 students. Register at larron4@charter.net. June 10 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $165. 805-748-6935. Central Coast Glass Blowing and Fusing, 1279 2nd Street, Los Osos, RodBakerGlass.com.

WINE GLASS PAINTING You will be guided through the process of painting two wine glasses during this fun and easy event that’s for all skill levels. June 25 , 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $30. 805-2865993. CreativeMeTime.com. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

SportS and recreation

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 7 p.m. Free. 805934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria.

FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. 805-9379750. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.

FOLK DANCE CLASS For adults ages 50 and up. Learn folk dances from around the world. No experience is necessary. Every third Thursday, 2-3 p.m. through Dec. 28 Free. 805-925-0951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

LEGO CLUB Stop by the library for an afternoon of Lego madness. Meet with other Lego fans, build together, or build your own creation. June 14 , 3 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons. org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

LINE DANCING FUN For adults ages 50 and older. Learn basic patterns and steps to some of your favorite music. This beginnerfriendly 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.

POKÉMON CLUB Join other Pokémon trainers at the popular Pokémon Club. Learn how to play the Pokémon Trading Card game, watch Pokémon, and participate in other fun activities. Bring a deck from home to battle or use one from the library. June 17, 11 a.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

STRIDE WITH THE TIDE PISMO BEACH 5K RUN City of Pismo Beach and San Luis Distance Club (SLDC) present Stride with the Tide 5K. Start and finish your race on the sand at the Pismo Pier. Aug. 5 8:30 a.m.-noon $20 race; $35 race and T-shirt. 805-7737063. pismobeach.org/recreation. Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, Pismo Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BITTY SPORTS: PICKLEBALL Play, learn, and grow in your pickleball skills. June 7-28 SLO County YMCA, 1020 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo, 805-543-8235, sloymca.org.

DM PRO TENNIS ACADEMY Classes offered for all ages. Training and assistance are provided to support any goal, from the development of basic skills to top competition. Consultation with instructors is available. Multilingual instruction in English, Spanish, and Italian are available. Mondays, Wednesdays, 9-10, 10-11 & 11 a.m.-noon, Mondays, Wednesdays, 9-10, 10-11 & 11 a.m.-noon and Mondays, Wednesdays, 9-10, 10-11 & 11 a.m.-noon through Aug. 16 Ranges from $55–$105. slocity.org. Islay Hill Park, 1151 Tank Farm Rd., San Luis Obispo.

INTRODUCTION TO PICKLEBALL For ages 18 and over. Come see what pickleball is all about. Participants will learn the basics of the game including the rules, basic skills and strategy, types of equipment, and game safety. Saturdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. and Saturdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. through Oct. 14 $35. slocity.org. Meadow Park, 2251 Meadow St., San Luis Obispo.

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

Summer Guide 2023

MASKED MARVELS

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church hosts Superheroes in SLO, a superhero-themed summer Bible camp for ages 5 to 12, starting on Monday, July 31, and running through Friday, Aug. 4. The camp features sports, music, cooking classes, snacks, and more. Registration is available in advance at my805tix.com. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church is located at 1344 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. —C.W.

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. Come for a morning of yoga with stories and breathing exercises. Children are introduced to mindfulness and will learn exercises to help regulate emotions. Yoga mats will be provided or bring one from home. For ages 3-5. July 28 , 11 a.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

TEEN GAMING Teens, come for a Friday afternoon of gaming. Play to win or sit back and watch the action on our large screen. Light snacks will be provided. July 21 , 4 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Shepard Hall Art Gallery - Santa Maria Public Library, 421 South McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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

Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.

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

SLO BLUES BASEBALL: JUNE SCHEDULE Visit site for tickets and full lineup of games. June 2-28 my805tix.com. Sinsheimer Park, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo, 805-781-7222.

SLO BLUES BASEBALL: MAY SCHEDULE Check site for tickets and venue info. May 26 6 p.m., May 27 6 p.m., May 28 4 p.m. and May 29 2 p.m. my805tix.com. Sinsheimer Park, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo, 805-781-7222.

SUMMER SPORTS CAMP Community youth are invited to start and end their summer participating in a full day sports camp with Parks and Recreation. Participants will learn and play a variety of different traditional and non–traditional sports throughout the three–week camp. Limited registration available. June 12-16, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Aug. 7-11 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and Aug. 14-16 8 a.m.-2 p.m. $120 (Week 1 and 2), $70 (Week 3). slocity.org. Meadow Park, 2251 Meadow St., San Luis Obispo.

nature and outdoorS

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

2023 PEACE OF MIND: 10,000 STEPS IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION FUNDRAISING WALK A fundraising walk to support mental health community services, research, and treatment for anxiety and depression. July 22 , 9 a.m.-noon $55. 707-227-8503. almarosawinery.com. Alma Rosa Estate, 7250 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton.

NATURE AND OUTDOORS continued page 25

PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

MUSIC AND NATURE RETREAT This special weekend event is an opportunity to make connections and raise the positive vibration on Mother Earth through music and song, hiking, and various contemplative experiences. June 23 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and June 25 , 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 805-736-6528. sunburst.org/musicnature/. Sunburst Retreat Center, 7200 CA-1, Lompoc.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

BIKE TO NATURE PROGRAM Participants will learn basic bicycle mechanics (and may get to build their own bike), how to run a community bike shop, how to bike safely on streets, how to select a route to natural and cultural resources, what makes a route safe, and how to advocate for safer streets. June 19 -July 28 movesbcounty.org. Bici Centro, 310 Oak Street, Santa Maria. GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing 805-343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

PILATES/KAYAK TO THE LIGHTHOUSE A one-of-a-kind ocean adventure and Pilates class led by Vanessa Dominguez of Tabula Rasa Pilates. June 4 , 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

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.

YOGA/KAYAK TO THE LIGHTHOUSE A one-of-a-kind ocean adventure/yoga session led by certified yoga instructor Jennifer Anderson (Intent with Jen). June 18 , 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. my805tix. com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

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.

BIRDS AND BOTANY MONTHLY WALK AT SLO BOTANICAL

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. 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

IOP OPEN HOUSE Curious about the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)? Attend to learn how this structured treatment program can help youth with behavioral health challenges on their healing journey. Registration is free. June 9 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 805-455-5067. caminoacasa.org. Camino a Casa, 2615 S. Miller St., suite 106, Santa Maria.

LET’S BLOW OFF SOME STEAM Curious preschoolers, come to a special story time filled with exploration and discovery. Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math themes will be explored through stories and discovered through hands-on activities. Come dressed for mess. For ages 3-5. June 9 11 a.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

MUGGLE STUDIES 101 Learn about the interesting items muggles use in daily life. What is the purpose of a rubber duck? What other fascinating items and reasons might muggles have? School attire encouraged. July 27 2 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. 805-925-0464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

ORCUTT MINERAL SOCIETY Second Tuesday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, 805-937-9750.

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. This fun story time will feature songs, fingerplays, and stories.

For ages 3-6. Mondays, 10 a.m. through July 24 Free. 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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.

GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Tuesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free with $5 Garden Entry. 805-541-1400. slobg.org/calendar. Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free with $5 Garden Entry. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

LUNCHTIME IN THE GARDEN UC Master Gardener Program of SLO County extends an invitation to the public. Bring your lunch, tour the garden, ask questions, or just sit and enjoy the sights and sounds of the venue’s Demonstration Garden. First Wednesday of every month, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Sept. 6 Free. 805-781-5939. ucanr.edu/sites/mgslo/. Garden of the Seven Sisters Demonstration Garden, 2156 Sierra Way, San Luis Obispo.

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

Lectures and Learning

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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

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 31 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 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 27 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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

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. Second and Fourth Saturday of every month, 12-4 p.m. smvrhm.com. Santa Maria Transit Center, Miller and Boone Streets, Santa Maria.

SENSORY BIN CREATION STATION Preschoolers, learn how to create a sensory bin. Sensory bins allow children to explore, discover, imagine, create, and learn while engaging their senses. For ages 3-5; adult assistance is required to assemble sensory bins. Registration is required. July 3 11 a.m. Free. 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., 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.

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.

VALLEY READS BOOK CLUB Group covers a different book each month. Registration required. Second Saturday of every month, 2 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/citygovernment/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

WFG FINANCIAL LITERACY WORKSHOPS Registration is suggested. Tuesdays, 4 p.m. through May 30 Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

COFFEE CHAT AG HomeShareSLO, a program of non-profit Smart Share Housing, facilitates matches between home providers (those with extra rooms) and home seekers (those looking for affordable housing). Join for a chat to see if this is right for you. Third Wednesday of every month, 3-4 p.m. Free and open to the public; no RSVP required. 805-215-5474. smartsharehousingsolutions.org. Panera Bread, 1390 W. Branch St., Arroyo Grande.

LECTURES AND LEARNING continued page 26

LECTURES AND LEARNING from page 25

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. 805-9295679. DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo, danaadobe.org.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK

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

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

“HOW TO ADU” FOR ARROYO GRANDE HOMEOWNERS Join the non-profit Smart Share Housing Solutions and AG city planning staff at these workshops to learn more about design, permitting, finance, and constructions of ADUs. Meet at the Demo cottage. May 31 10:3011:30 a.m. Free. 805-215-5474. smartsharehousingsolutions.org/ ag-adu-thow/. SLO Guild Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

“HOW TO ADU” FOR ARROYO GRANDE HOMEOWNERS (VIRTUAL) Join the non-profit Smart Share Housing Solutions and AG City planning staff at our last workshop for the series. June 6 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free. 805-2155474. smartsharehousingsolutions. org/ag-adu-thow/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

BAHRAM OSQUEEZADEH:

LECTURE AND DEMONSTRATION

Bahram Osqueezadeh, a multi-instrumentalist, scholar and composer, will share the compositional process that enables him to combine elements of traditional Persian music with Western musical forms. He will be the guest artist at the Cal Poly Symphony’s June 3 concert. June 1 11:10 a.m. Free. 805-756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/calendar. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Second and 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) 5449096, octagonbarn.org.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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.

LISTENING AS RITUAL Group listening sessions with musician/ musicologist Ben Gerstein. Explore remarkable recordings of world music, nature field recording, western classical and contemporary, and jazz, sharing and discussing inspiration and perspectives on the expressive power of peoples, cultures, animals and habitats through sonic experience. Every other Monday, 7-8:15 p.m. $10-$15 donation. 805-305-1229. leftcoastartstudio.com/. Left Coast Art Studio, 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos.

Summer Guide 2023

SHIP AHOY

The Morro Bay Maritime Museum, in collaboration with Maritime Museum San Diego, is bringing the Pacific Heritage Tour to Morro Bay Friday, Aug. 11, through Sunday, Aug. 20. The public is invited to step aboard a full-scale replica of Juan Rodriguez’s legendary ship, the San Salvador, from the Morro Bay pier, at 1185 Embarcadero, Morro Bay. Visit my805tix.com for more details.

BRIDGING THE GAP An evening of speakers and arts showcasing stories of justice-involved individuals and the success of a rehabilitative justice system. June 23 fremontslo.com. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600.

FOOD, AGRICULTURE, AND CLIMATE CHANGE SPEAKER

SERIES Hear from local experts on the relationship between agriculture, food access, and climate change. June 14 6-7:30 p.m. and June 28 , 6-7:30 p.m. civicspark.civicwell.org. City Farm

SLO, 1221 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, 805-769-8344. 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.

SLO NIGHTWRITERS: A COMMUNITY OF WRITERS SLO NightWriters supports local writers with monthly presentations, critique groups, contests, and other events. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. 805-703-3132. slonightwriters.org.

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.

TECH BREW MEETUP Tech Brew is a free networking event where people interested in technology can hang out in an informal environment with a small TEDtalk-like presentation from an interesting speaker. Learn more online. Second Monday of every month, 5-7 p.m. 805-323-6706. meetup.com/softec/. StoryLabs, 102 Cross St, Suite 220, San Luis Obispo.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy

Food and Wine

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

—C.W.

PRIDE PAINT AND SIP Using paints, glitters, sequins and more, glamorize the night away–in honor of Pride Month. June 16 6-8:30 p.m. $85. 805-245-2381. artspotonwheels.com/events/ pride-paint-sip/. Art Spot on Wheels, 320 Alisal Road, unit 306B, Solvang.

SECOND SATURDAY OPEN AIR MARKET: LOS ALAMOS A carefully curated open air artisan and farm market. Features great vintage finds, handwoven and hand dyed textiles, handspun yarn, organic body care products, and locally grown organic eats. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-722-4338. Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.

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.

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/.

FOOD AND WINE continued page 27

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MORRO BAY MARITIME MUSEUM

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

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

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

TEEN COOKING EXPERIENCE WITH MASTER FOOD

PRESERVERS Register for a cooking class with Master Food Preservers where you’ll learn food prep skills, canning techniques, and get to take home something delicious. Registration is required; sign up for one time slot. June 30, 2 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Register for a cooking class with Master Food Preservers where you’ll learn food prep skills, canning techniques, and get to take home something delicious. Registration is required. July 14 2 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. 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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AVILA BEACH 4TH OF JULY PANCAKE BREAKFAST Features pancakes, bacon or sausage, fruit, orange juice, milk, and coffee. July 4 8:30-11 a.m. my805tix.com. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach.

MACARONI AND CHEESE FEST Features more than 25 different vendors. June 24 2-6 p.m. themacandcheesefest.com.

Avila Beach Golf Resort, 6464 Ana Bay Rd., Avila Beach, 805-595-4000.

SET THE STAGE

NOTABLE DINNER: EVOLUTION OF THE PIANO QUARTET Evening begins with a wine and appetizer reception and concludes with a three-course dinner. Scott Yoo will play with a chamber music ensemble, the piano quartet. You will learn about the history of the art form and hear selections of of different quartets. July 24 5:30-9 p.m. Tickets start at $175. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Halter Ranch Vineyard, 8910 Adelaida Road, Paso Robles.

Summer Guide 2023

The Pacific Conservatory Theatre will present its productions of Emma and Bright Star at the Solvang Festival Theater, between Thursday, June 22, and Sunday, July 2, and between Friday, July 7, and Sunday, July 23, respectively. Visit pcpa.org for more info on either show. The Solvang Festival Theater is located at 420 2nd St., Solvang. —C.W.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.

VIVA LA CERVEZA: SLO BEER & TACO FESTIVAL Features beer, games, tacos, music, and food trucks. May 27 1 p.m. my805tix.com. Madonna Meadows, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

BEAUNE RANGERS PASO ROBLES PINOT NOIR SEMINAR A panel presentation and blind tasting of Paso Robles-sourced and produced pinot noir alongside a red burgundy. June 3 1 p.m. my805tix.com. Castoro Cellars, 1315 N. Bethel Rd., Templeton.

CLUB SUPSUP A pop-up dinner experience, the last Wednesday of every month, 6-9 p.m. $125. 310-692-0046. clubsupsup.com/.

Kindred Oak Farm, 1250 Paint Horse Plaza, Paso Robles.

ONX WINES VINEYARD TOUR AND TASTING Enjoy a private tour and tasting at the ONX Estate. The tour begins at the Tractor Shed with a portfolio tasting. From there your host will drive you around the vineyard in an off-road vehicle, allowing you to taste the wine right where it’s grown. Mondays, Thursdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 29 $45 per person. 805-434-5607. onxwine.com/ estate. ONX Estate Vineyard, 1200 Paseo Excelsus, Templeton. SUMMER BARBECUE AT THE ONX ESTATE VINEYARD A funfilled, family-friendly evening of wine, food, and entertainment. Indulge in a Santa Maria-style barbecue buffet catered by Gold Land Barbecue, featuring mouth-watering dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. June 24 4 p.m. $35-$95. 805-4345607. onxwine.com. ONX Estate Vineyard, 1200 Paseo Excelsus, Templeton.

TACO TUESDAYS La Parilla Taqueria will be in the courtyard serving up their delicious tacos and tostadas. Menu typically includes barbacoa, chicken, and pastor tacos, as well as shrimp ceviche tostadas. Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. 805-460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. Event lasts up to 2 hours. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. 805-394-5560. coastalwineandpaint.com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.

WINEMAKER’S DINNER FEAT. CUTRUZZOLA VINEYARDS

Enjoy a fine five-course meal prepared by Executive Chef Fernando Cuevas and served with expertly paired Cutruzzola wines. In addition to delicious plates, this is also a learning experience where a Cutruzzola expert will guide you through each wine and food pairing. May 28 5:30-9 p.m. $99. 805927-4200. cambriapineslodge.com/winemakers-dinner-series. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria. m

747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. 805-441-8257.

Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.

LISA SOLOMON Solomon’s mixed media works revolve thematically around discovering her heritage, the notion of domesticity, craft, feminism, and the pursuit of art as science/research. June 2- Aug. 28 , 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-5438562. sloma.org/exhibition/lisa-solomon/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

MARELA ZACARÍAS: STORYTELLING

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

PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL

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

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

POTTERY CLASS MONDAYS Nesting Hawk Ranch offers three separate pottery classes every Monday, for ages 5-7 (9-10 a.m.), ages 8 and older (10:30 a.m.-noon), and throwing classes ages for ages 14 and older (1-2:30 p.m.). Mondays. through June 26 $40-$50. 702-335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

POTTERY: BEGINNING WHEEL CLASS

This series is a great intro to the pottery wheel. Students learn to throw various shapes, surface decorate, and glaze. Clay and firing included with admission.

Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $180. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SCULPTURE CLASS WITH ROD PEREZ

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

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

SUMMER 2023 THEATRE CAMPS SLO

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

TINY POTTERS: WISE ONES AND WEE

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

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

THE 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. Through June 26 Free. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

CENTRAL COAST ARTISTS COLLECTIVE

PRESENTS Photography, sculpture, and fine craft by members of the Central

Coast Artists Collective, an organization serving artist groups on the Central Coast. Mondays-Sundays, 12-4 p.m. through June 26 Free. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Jewett’s work is also on display at Nautical Bean in Laguna shopping center during February. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559-799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

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 PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHY RUSS The visual artistry of Russ’s work is born of a keen eye for the unusual and a life-long passion for the outdoors. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through June 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.

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

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS SMALL WORKS BY STEVIE

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

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, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., May 28 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and May 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Morro Bay City Park, Corner of Morro Bay Blvd. and Harbor St., Morro Bay.

MOSAIC TRIVET WORKSHOP During this workshop, you will learn how to design and create a mosaic trivet. You will learn how to select materials, lay out a pleasing pattern, and adhere the tiles to the trivet

REGARDING HENRY

The Elverhoj Museum of History and Art will host an opening reception for its new photography exhibition, Music is Love, on Friday, May 26, from 7 to 9 p.m. The exhibit showcases a collection of photos by Henry Diltz and is scheduled to remain on display through Sunday, Aug. 13. Visit elverhoj.org for more info. The museum is located at 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang. —C.W.

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.

PAPER, FELT, AND FIBER ART BY DEBBIE GEDAYLOO “Most of my artistic inspiration comes from nature and my desire to create joy and happiness. My art is based on a foundation of respect for nature and the necessity of our being good stewards of the planet,” the artist stated. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through June 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

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

SLOFUNNY COMEDY GYM The SLOFunny Comedy Gym is a monthly showcase for local, SLO County-based comedians. There is always a professional touring host and headliner, in addition to 8 to 10 local comedians. May 28 , 7-9 p.m. $15. 805-534-3129. facebook.com/slofunny. Central Coast Pizza, 1050 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos.

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.

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

ANIMAL ACTIVISTS PROTEST Animal advocates will hold a peaceful protest at the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo. Meet at the driveway entrance to Gate 3. Call for more info. June 1 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. 805-4415897. Elks Event Center, 4040 Highway 101, 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.

CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 7 p.m. Free. 805-934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main 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. FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/.

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

GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing 805-343-2455. 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

sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School

Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach. CAMP AG JAMBOREE Features hands-on activities, historical displays, live music by Monte Mills and the Lucky Horseshoe Band, and lunch from 5-Cities Men’s Club. June 3 11 a.m. my805tix.com. Camp Arroyo Grande, 250 Wesley St., Arroyo Grande, 805-249-9517.

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.

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 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 ELKS RODEO AND PARADE Visit site for full schedule of slated festivities featured during this year’s annual Elks Rodeo and Parade. June 1 -4 elksrec.com/. Elks Event Center, 4040 Highway 101, 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.

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.

TODDLER TIME (THURSDAYS) A high-energy learning experience just for toddlers and their caregivers. Toddlers learn and grow through stories, movement, and music. For ages 1-3. Registration is required. Thursdays, 10 a.m. through June 1 805-925-0994. 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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AVILA BEACH PARTY Features games, music, food, drinks, and more. May 27, 1-7 p.m., May 28 , 1-7 p.m. and May 29 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-595-4000. 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.

PILATES/KAYAK TO THE LIGHTHOUSE

A one-of-a-kind ocean adventure and Pilates class led by Vanessa Dominguez of Tabula Rasa Pilates. June 4 , 9 a.m.1:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

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.

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.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

“HOW TO ADU” FOR ARROYO GRANDE HOMEOWNERS Join the non-profit Smart Share Housing Solutions and AG city planning staff at these workshops to learn more about design, permitting, finance, and constructions of ADUs. Meet at the Demo cottage. May 31 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. 805-215-5474. smartsharehousingsolutions.org/ag-aduthow/. SLO Guild Hall, 2880 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. CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 30

BIRDS AND BOTANY MONTHLY WALK

AT SLO BOTANICAL GARDEN The Garden is excited to present a monthly bird walk series on the fourth Thursday of every month which explores the intersection of birds and botany. Fourth Thursday of every month, 8-11 a.m. $10 for Garden Members; $40 for general public. 805541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions

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

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.

HUNGER AWARENESS DAY A countywide event that brings the community together to raise awareness about hunger, highlights ways that the SLO Food Bank works to alleviate it, and encourages everyone to get involved in providing hunger relief. Join by donating, fundraising, volunteering, and more. June 2 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 805-238-4664. slofoodbank.org. SLO County, Various locations, San Luis Obispo.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION

(ONLINE) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions

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

PRIDEFEST Central Coast Pride presents Pridefest. Come out for a day of family-friendly celebration of Pride, with music, food, art, vendors, resources, and community. All welcome. June 3 , 10 a.m.-5

p.m. Free. 805-541-4252. slopride.com/. Laguna Lake Park, 504 Madonna Rd., 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 BLUES BASEBALL: JUNE

SCHEDULE Visit site for tickets and full lineup of games. June 2-28 my805tix.com.

Sinsheimer Park, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo, 805-781-7222.

SLO BLUES BASEBALL: MAY SCHEDULE

Check site for tickets and venue info.

May 26 , 6 p.m., May 27, 6 p.m., May 28

4 p.m. and May 29, 2 p.m. my805tix.com.

Sinsheimer Park, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo, 805-781-7222.

SLO GREEK FESTIVAL 2023 Features food, live music, dancing, and more. June

3 , 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and June 4 11 a.m.-5

p.m. slochamber.org/slo-greek-festival.

Madonna Inn Expo Center, 100 Madonna Rd., 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.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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., May 28 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

PISMO PAIR

Local duo Forever Green will perform a live concert at the Pismo Coast Village RV Resort on Saturday, May 27, from 5 to 8 p.m. Admission to the concert is free. Parking is available outside the resort. Visit Forever Green’s Facebook page to find out more about the concert. The Pismo Coast Village RV Resort is located at 165 S. Dolliver St., Pismo Beach. —C.W.

and May 29 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-4029437. 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/.

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If you answered “yes” ... please contact Cindy Rucker!

crucker@newtimesslo.com or (805) 546-8208 ext 218

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

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

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

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

ZACA MESA WINERY’S 50TH

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Zaca

Mesa Winery and Vineyards is turning 50. Celebrate with a day of live rock n’ roll music, California-style barbecue, wine, community, and more. June 3 12-4 p.m. $75. 805-688-9339. zacamesa.com/ upcoming-events/. Zaca Mesa Winery, 6905 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos.

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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

FOLK DANCE CLASS For adults ages 50 and up. Learn folk dances from around the world. No experience is necessary. Every third Thursday, 2-3 p.m. through Dec. 28 Free. 805-925-0951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., 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

MUSIC continued page 32

ALEX FERREL PAINTING

When painting kitchens and bathrooms, take extra time to clean walls and ceilings. The kitchen will have cooking grease near the stove and the bathroom will have a soap film from shower steam. Lightly sand the semi-gloss enamel to help with adhesion. Remove loose caulk around shower and use a quick dry paintable caulk. Make sure you maintain a wet edge on the smaller ceilings to avoid lines. Larger ceilings can be difficult to roll without showing lines, so spraying is the best option. To complete the new paint project, clean your cabinets for a total renovation of your project. Call us for advice, it’s always free.

(805) 598-4052

LEND A HAND

Glasshead Studio in Atascadero hosts its On The Other Hand workshop on Wednesday, May 31, from 10 a.m. to noon. Participants of the class will use their nondominant hand to create a fused glass project. Call (805) 464-2633 or visit glassheadstudio.com for more info. The studio is located at 8793 Plata Lane, suite H, Atascadero.

MUSIC from page 30

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.

LIVE MUSIC BY DOUG MACRAI May 26 , 6-9 p.m. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

LIVE MUSIC BY RANDY LEDUNE June 2 Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt. 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., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777, 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 SHAY MOULDER

Come and witness the very talented and entertaining Shay playing her ukulele and keyboard. June 3 , 6-9 p.m. Free. 805-6869126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, 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

COLONEL ANGUS LIVE An AC/DC cover band. June 2 , 7 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.

Avila Bay Athletic Club. May 26 , 6-8 p.m. and June 2 , 6-8 p.m. Free. avilabayclub. com. Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, 805-595-7600.

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

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

KATHRYN LOOMIS & CO. AND SLO HIGH SCHOOL HONOR JAZZ BAND Calling all jazz lovers. Don’t miss the stunning vocals of Kathryn Loomis & Co. at Pismo Vets Hall. Her classic approach and experience with the Great American Songbook will transport you to a bygone era of jazz.

May 28 1-4 p.m. $10 for members; $15 for non-members. 805-937-8402. Pismo Beach Veterans Memorial Hall, 780 Bello St., Pismo Beach.

SATURDAY MUSIC IN THE SQUARE WITH FOREVER GREEN Enjoy live music by Forever Green. This event is open to the public, but attendees must find parking outside of the resort and walk in.

May 27, 5-8 p.m. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, 165 S Dolliver St., Pismo Beach, 805-773-5649.

VOCAL ARTS SUMMER CONCERT Features a variety of classic folk tunes. June 1 7 p.m. my805tix.com. The Monarch Club at Trilogy Monarch Dunes, 1645 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo, 805-343-7530.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BAHRAM OSQUEEZADEH: LECTURE AND DEMONSTRATION Bahram

Osqueezadeh, a multi-instrumentalist, scholar and composer, will share the compositional process that enables him to combine elements of traditional Persian music with Western musical forms. He will be the guest artist at the Cal Poly Symphony’s June 3 concert. June 1 11:10 a.m. Free. 805-756-2406. music. calpoly.edu/calendar. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY ARAB MUSIC ENSEMBLE

SPRING CONCERT Art, folk, and popular music from Arab society, as well as selected seminal pieces from the historically interconnected areas of Southwest Asia and North Africa. Dancers and critically acclaimed, and guest artists will be featured. May 27 7:30 p.m. $20 general, $10 students. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY SPRING JAZZ CONCERT The Cal Poly Jazz Program’s season finale. The concert will feature Cal Poly’s Jazz Ensemble and Vocal Jazz Ensemble (MOSAIC). MOSAIC will perform works from its soon-to-be released album. May

26 7:30 p.m. $15 and $20 general, $10 students and Jazz Federation members. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/ calendar/jazz/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., 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.

CAL POLY’S RSVP: SOUNDINGS The Cal Poly Music Department will present multimedia works by music technology and composition students. In this program, students will collaborate with guest ensemble line upon line to premiere original interdisciplinary works for interactive media. With dance choreographed by Evan Ricuarté. June 1 -2, 7:30 p.m. $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/ calendar/rsvp/. PAC Pavilion, Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitar-woven indie music that has an authentic feel and is easy to listen to, but also surprises. May 27, 5-8 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com/. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-2337.

EASTON EVERETT SOLO Enjoy some indie-acoustic, 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.

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

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

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, 805-4390774, ragtagwineco.com.

VOCAL ARTS SUMMER CONCERT

Features a variety of classic folk tunes. June 3 , 3 p.m. my805tix.com. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo. m

—C.W.

First Date: Broadway’s Musical Comedy

FRI, SAT, SUN, MAY 26, 27, 28 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

By the Sea Productions: The Cemetery Club FRI, SAT, SUN, MAY 26, 27, 28 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay

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

SLOFunny Comedy Show

SATURDAY, MAY 27 Veteran’s Building, Morro Bay

Kathryn Loomis & Co. and SLO High School Honor Jazz Band SUNDAY, MAY 28 Pismo Beach Veterans’ Hall

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

Chakra Meditation on the Beach WEDNESDAY, MAY 31 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

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

Colonel Angus (AC/DC Cover Band)

FRIDAY, JUNE 2 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Beer Yoga with Saunter Yoga & Wellness

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

Ancient Owl Beer Garden, Atascadero

Camp Arroyo Grande Jamboree

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 Wesley Street, Arroyo Grande

Beaune Rangers Paso Robles Pinot Noir Seminar

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 Castoro Cellars, Templeton

Pilates / Kayak to the Lighthouse SUNDAY, JUNE 4 Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

18th Annual Paso Pinot & Paella Festival SUNDAY, JUNE 4 Templeton Park, Templeton

Rainbow Macrame Plant Hanger Class SUN, JUNE 4 & THURS, JUNE 8 The Bunker SLO, San Luis Obispo

Tiny Porch Concerts: Steve Poltz with Abby Posner

SUNDAY, JUNE 4 Peter Strauss Ranch, Agoura Hills

Comedy Jamboree THURSDAY, JUNE 8

Highwater SLO, San Luis Obispo

Gas Station Sushi with guests The Johnny Come Latelies

FRIDAY, JUNE 9 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

ARTS BRIEFS

Deaf theater troupe, Sunshine 2.0, performs for SB and SLO County students

performances of The Revolutionists is arrive with an empty stomach and be prepared to stay awhile (dinner service starts around 5:30 p.m., and the two-act show ended around 10 p.m. the night I attended).

In mid-May, Sunshine 2.0—a professional theater troupe from the Rochester Institute of Technology’s National Technical Institute for the Deaf—held a series of theater workshops for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students from schools across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.

The student workshops took place at Ralph Dunlap Elementary School in Orcutt, while the group also recently hosted a community performance for the general public at Ethel Pope Auditorium, located at Santa Maria High School. Students who participated in the classes ranged in age from preschool to high school.

Sunshine 2.0 incorporates American Sign Language, signed songs, and various games into its workshops and performances. The group’s recent visit to the Central Coast was arranged by local deaf and hard of hearing teacher Kelly Sanders, with support from both the Santa Barbara County Office of Education and the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education.

To find out more about Sunshine 2.0, visit rit.edu/ntid/ sunshine. The traveling group specializes in bringing its program to public schools, colleges, civic group venues, and other outlets around the country.

For more info on future programs hosted by either the Santa Barbara County Office of Education or the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education, visit sbceo.org or slocoe. org, respectively.

Local high schoolers bring musical review to Disney California Adventure Park

Deliciously dramatic Lompoc Civic Theatre’s new dinner production, The Revolutionists, is a feast for the senses

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Aplaywright. A monarch. A rebel. An assassin. Historically, three of the four women depicted in contemporary writer Lauren Gunderson’s play The Revolutionists, set in the 18th century, probably never interacted with one another in real life, while the fourth woman never existed at all.

The Lompoc Civic Theatre’s new production of Gunderson’s show opens with Olympe de Gouges (played by Anne Ramsey) sitting at a desk with a quill in hand. She was a real playwright who advocated for social reform during the French Revolution and was executed in 1793—the same year that Marie Antoinette (Rachel Mello) and Charlotte Corday (played by understudy Michelle Pittenger during the show I attended) also faced the guillotine.

But Gouges doesn’t meet those two figures, in the play that is, before first speaking with Marianne Angelle (Kimberly Washinton), the sole fictional character Gunderson created for The Revolutionists.

Angelle is a composite character meant to represent several women who took part in the Haitian Revolution. As I read this tidbit in the show’s program, prior to the start of the performance I attended, I couldn’t help but be reminded of other amalgamation characters in historical retellings, like the fictional scientist Ulana Khomyuk (Emily Watson) in the HBO miniseries Chernobyl, or Cmdr. Bolton (Kenneth Branagh) in Christopher Nolan’s World War II epic Dunkirk.

I wonder how many audience members at the show I saw in late April assumed that Angelle was a real person because I definitely wouldn’t have thought twice about it without reading the program. There’s plenty of time to read up on the show beforehand because admission includes a three-course dinner (two of which are served before the first act begins).

My advice to attendees of future

The production quality of the show—with its four leads brought to life by a stellar cast as the four women provide meta commentary on their roles in the French Revolution and their inevitable fates—truly reflects a passion its director (Pittenger, who also played Corday marvelously as the character’s understudy) and crew obviously had for the source material.

Equally worth noting is the phenomenal French cuisine-inspired dinner included with admission (I was almost tempted to write a standalone review on the food in the Sun’s Eats section).

Upon reserving seats for the show, hopeful attendees have a handful of dinner offerings to consider, with two appetizer options (garden salad or French onion soup) and three main courses (beef bourguignon, coq au vin, and ratatouille) to choose from. Appetizers and main course are served prior to the show, while dessert and coffee are available to guests at intermission.

Being severely biased toward chicken-based entrees (if you don’t believe me, find me on Instagram, @chicken_strips_caleb_gets), I had to go with the coq au vin, which I absolutely did not regret. It was my first time trying the traditional French dish and, based on how good it was, I know it won’t be the last. m

Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood is also a big fan of french fries and French toast, and took four years’ worth of French classes in high school. Send comments in English, French, or Pig Latin to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

Theater students from Righetti High School and Pioneer Valley High School recently collaborated during a special musical review performance at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim. A total of 35 students participated in the spring program and also attended a special performing arts workshop at the Disney Imagination Campus during the field trip.

Omar Gomez, a senior at Pioneer Valley High School who took part in the program, described the trip as “an unforgettable memory,” according to the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District.

“It was a lot of fun to see our students perform onstage so far from home,” Selyn Harwin, a theater and technical theater teacher at Pioneer Valley High School, said in a statement. “The Disney performance staff was blown away by the energy and talent the students brought during their performance and workshop. I am incredibly proud of their work.” m

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

See ya at the guillotine Performances of the Lompoc Civic Theatre’s production of The Revolutionists will be held on June 10 and 17 at the Mission Club, located at 4300 Club House Road, Lompoc. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. on both evenings. Admission is $65, which includes dinner. For more info on the show, visit lct.lbee.com.

PHOTO BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

CHICKEN RUN: It was hard to pick between the main course options offered as part of the three-course dinner included with admission of the Lompoc Civic Theatre’s latest production, but I ultimately went with the coq au vin—a traditional French chicken dish.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOMPOC CIVIC THEATRE

LET THEM EAT CAKE: Rachel Mello (left) plays Marie Antoinette, and Kimberly Washington plays Marianne Angelle in The Revolutionists, a historical comedy-drama currently showing at the Mission Club in Lompoc.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SANTA MARIA JOINT UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

REBEL ALLIANCE: The cast of the Lompoc Civic Theatre’s production of The Revolutionists includes Anne Ramsey, Angela Soleno, and Kimberly Washington, pictured from left to right.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOMPOC CIVIC THEATRE

Dante Reyes (Jason Momoa), the vengeful son of slain drug lord Hernan Reyes (Joaquim de Almeida), blames Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel) for his father’s death, but he doesn’t just want to kill Dom, he wants to make him suffer by going after his whole family. This is installment one of a two-part finale, so expect a cliffhanger. (141 min.)

that, I really don’t think I’ve seen any of the franchise. This was more fun than expected. I remember feeling the same way about Hobbs & Shaw. Honestly, if we pull too far forward over a parking block our car is basically rendered useless, so watching vehicles drop from planes and defy any sort of physics takes a certain suspension of disbelief to buy into the bananas of it all. I know all of these characters, besides Dante, are well established in the franchise, and Momoa seems like an obvious choice to bring on board for the final two films. Are they really going to be done, though? Or is Fast & Furious XI a mere $350 million away from popping up next summer? I guess we’ll wait and see. For now, I have plenty of back catalog to catch up on whenever I feel the need for speed.

FAST X

What’s

Glen: When it first came out in 2001, I watched and liked the original The Fast and the Furious that spawned this popular franchise, but by the time the third film came along, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006), I was over it. These films are for adolescents—obnoxious, ridiculous, and filled with pretty people pulling off outrageous car stunts in a world where the laws of physics and gravity don’t exist. While I haven’t kept up with the franchise—the Hobbs & Shaw (2019) spin-off was the last one I saw—I’m happy to report that missing movies three through nine didn’t stop this one from being amusing. I’m sure I missed a lot of references die-hard fans caught, but if you’re looking for an eye-popping diversion and want to see a swishy version of Momoa machismo and a cloying attempt at making an action film into a family drama, Fast X (Is it “ex” or “10”? I don’t know!), is your ticket to ride. I laughed pretty hard a couple of times, probably not where the writers and director intended.

Anna: I’ve been on the Fast & Furious ride at Universal Studios and watched Hobbs & Shaw with you a few years ago, but other than

Glen: Frankly, I don’t know where the franchise could go after the next installment. They’ve teed-up Gal Gadot as a U-boat captain and the return of The Rock for part two, and this film included Brie Larson, Rita Moreno, Charlize Theron, Alan Ritchson, Scott Eastwood, Helen Mirren, and the usual suspects—Michelle Rodriguez, Jason Statham, Jordana Brewster, Ludacris, Tyrese Gibson, Sung Kang, John Cena—even a Pete Davidson cameo! Is there anyone in Hollywood who isn’t already attached to the franchise? Stunt-wise, what more can they do? I mean, they shot a Pontiac Fiero into space in F9! The series is as bloated and preposterous as they come. Maybe you’re right. Maybe they’ll

resurrect the series after part two of film 10. If they do, I just might check it out. Maybe they’ll hire Henry Winkler to jump a Ford Fiesta over a shark.

Anna: We can only hope! I doubt these are good on the small screen. I think the only way to capture my attention for something like this is to sit me in a dark theater to see big tricks, big explosions, bigger-than-life stunts. I enjoyed Momoa as the off-kilter bad dude. He

THE DIPLOMAT

What’s it rated? TV-MA

A SMALL LIGHT

What’s it rated? TV-14

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? ABC, Disney Plus, Hulu, National Geographic

A Small Light follows Miep Geis, a young Dutch woman who sheltered and hid the Frank family for more than two years during World War II. Portrayed by Bel Powley, Miep struggles with the terror of hiding the family as well as others while maintaining an ordinary enough looking life in the Nazi occupied Netherlands.

Powley is fierce here, a passionate and outspoken woman whose opinions and voice threaten to get the better of her every day. We watch her meet her to-be husband, Jan (Joe Cole), who at first she hides her new wards from but who eventually joins her in the task of concealment and who becomes a key part of the resistance. Anne (Billie Boulet) is a precocious and typical young teenage girl who is trapped and forced to grow up looking at the same four walls.

While the story of Frank is well known, and because of Miep we have Anne’s diary to reflect back on, the reality of this

experience can get lost in the weeds. This new series does a brilliant job of building a bigger picture of this time in history and the absolute tragedy of war, along with how beautiful small moments, small hopes can be. (eight approximately 50-min. episodes)

—Anna

Senior

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Creator Debora Cahn (The West Wing, Homeland ) helms this new Netflix series about a career diplomat who’s used to dealing with messy situations. In fact, Kate Wyler (Keri Russell) thought her next posting was Afghanistan, but after a British aircraft carrier is bombed in an attack suspected to be in retaliation against the U.S. president (Michael McKean), she’s called into the Oval Office and told she’s now ambassador to Great Britain, which is usually a ceremonial position given to a major campaign donor.

Once there, she finds herself navigating stormy political waters, and it doesn’t help that her former superstar ambassador husband, Hal Wyler (Rufus Sewell), is really good at orchestrating behind-the-scenes shenanigans that make her job even harder. Oh, and their marriage is … let’s say complicated.

This is a smartly written, briskly paced drama with sharp wit and plenty of intriguing twists and turns, and these characters are really engaging as they employ statecraft to smooth out

was a fun, zany mess. I see why these films are so lucrative—they’re big and bold, and as long as there’s a whiff of a storyline, there’s reason to watch. I’m definitely filing this one under “guilty pleasure.” m

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

international problems and avoid geopolitical catastrophes. Russell and Sewel are great together. Is it realistic? No clue, but it’s entertaining as heck. (eight 43- to 56-min. episodes) m

SMOOTH, Inc. 240 East Roemer Way, Santa Maria · 805-922-8476 An Equal Opportunity (EEO) Employer 2255 S Broadway, Santa Maria www.flowercarriage.net Spring is in the air! Planning that special moment. Place your order online or call 805.922.0578

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PSYCHO KILLER QU’EST-CE QUE C’EST: Jason Momoa stars as Dante Reyes, an effeminate vengeful lunatic determined to make the Toretto family suffer, in Fast X , screening in local theaters.

—Glen

EVERYDAY HERO: Billie Boulet (left) stars as Anne Frank and Bel Powley stars as the woman who hid Anne and her family, Miep Gies, in A Small Light

POWER COUPLE: Keri Russell (right) stars as ambassador to Great Britain Kate Wyler, who has to navigate her new post as well as her meddling husband, former ambassador Hal Wyler (Rufus Sewell), in the Netflix TV series The Diplomat

Eats

All about avocados

The Central Coast is abloom with California’s favorite superfood

BY CHERISH WHYTE

The estimated 257 million pounds of avocados California will produce this season are hitting store shelves and restaurant menus now through early fall, and they’re bigger, greener, and tastier than ever.

“Winter and early spring rains contributed to delaying the usual start of harvesting but were excellent for California avocado tree health,” according to Terry Splane, vice president of marketing for the California Avocado Commission, based in Irvine.

Avocado grower Ivor Van Wingerden of Ocean Breeze Farms in Arroyo Grande added that the deluge “helped the avocados gain size more quickly, so California fruit is likely to be on average larger this year.”

Ocean Breeze, a major flower producer that also farms an 80-acre Hass orchard, sells the majority of its fruit to packing houses such as Index Fresh and Del Rey. The Arroyo Grande grower also sells its avocados to the public every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon, along with its flowers, at 1810 Willow Road.

“Avocados from San Luis Obispo County have a longer season than most of the rest of California due to our mild climate,” Van Wingerden said. “Their flavor really starts to shine in May and will continue to improve. … Most avocados will be harvested by August or September to fill the needs of the packing houses, but we always save some on the trees for our own sales as well as for Hotel SLO.”

The downtown San Luis Obispo hotel’s chef, Ryan Fancher, “is a close friend of mine and is the only restaurant we deal with directly,” he added.

Fancher said he’s excited about this year’s crop and plans to work them into a number of dishes at the property’s three eateries— Michelin-mentioned Ox+Anchor, Piadina, and High Bar.

One of his seasonal favorites is lobsterstuffed avocado, which is currently on the tasting menu at Ox+Anchor and also available at the rooftop bar. Sometimes, you can catch it on the menu with Dungeness crab.

“I love this dish,” he said. “The inspiration came from a project we were working on in Sonoma County. We were opening the rooftop bar at the Harmon House in Healdsburg and

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California is home to 90 percent of the nation’s avocado crop. The state’s terroir and coastal climate provide ideal growing conditions for the fruit, which take from 12 to 18 months to grow, then several days to ripen once cut from the tree.

WORTH

the chef at that time really wanted to serve a shrimp Louie salad. It wasn’t my favorite dish so we worked really hard to elevate the presentation. Of course, the avocados need to be perfect for this dish.”

Fancher said avocados are probably Hotel SLO’s favorite ingredient because of their beautiful color, flavor, and texture. He looks for large, firm Hass avocados.

“We especially love the Hass that the Van Windergen family are growing on the [Nipomo] Mesa at Ocean Breeze Farms,” he added.

According to Splane, there are nine varieties of avocados grown commercially in California by about 3,000 growers on approximately 50,000 acres from Monterey to San Diego.

Varieties include Bacon, Fuerte, GEM, Gwen, Lamb Hass, Pinkerton, Reed, Zutano, and the legendary Hass, which accounts for 95 percent of the crop value.

“The original Hass tree, the mother of all Hass avocados, is a California native,” Splane said. “Grower Rudolph Hass planted an avocado seed (in La Habra Heights nearly 100 years ago). From that seed grew a tree that yielded fruit with a unique rich and nutty taste loved by many.

“Today, every Hass avocado eaten worldwide

EATS continued page 38

Giavanni’s Pizza

Get your green gems

Support Central Coast growers at local farmers’ markets and shops, and learn more about California avocados—including history, storage tips, nutrition facts, and recipes—at californiaavocado.com. Try Hass avocados from oceanbreezefarms.com and avocado-inspired dishes at hotelslo.com.

Chef Ryan Fancher’s Lobster-Stuffed Avocado

Servings: 4 halves

2 ripe avocados

1 pound chilled lobster meat (or substitute crab)

1 tablespoon mayonnaise

1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 Roma tomato diced with seeds removed potato chips salt and pepper

2 tablespoons crème fraiche (or substitute sour cream)

1 bunch chives, chopped

In a small mixing bowl, combine the lobster, mayonnaise, tarragon, diced tomato, and lemon zest. Season to taste with salt and pepper. In a separate small bowl, combine the crème fraiche and chives. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Cut avocados in half, removing the seed and skin. Even out the bottom by slicing off a small portion of the avocado making the bottom side flat so it rests level on a plate. Pack the lobster mixture into the center of the avocado, overflowing

FROM TREE TO TABLE: Chef Ryan Fancher goes through about eight cases of avocados per week. He selects a healthy percentage from Ocean Breeze Farms for use in Hotel SLO’s three restaurants. Current standout dishes include lobster-stuffed avocado, yellowfin tuna sashimi, Dungeness crab salad, and an elevated guacamole.

THE WAIT:

above the cavity of the avocado core. Place a large dollop of the chive crème fraîche in the middle of the plate. Place the stuffed avocado on the crème fraîche and top with a couple of your favorite potato chips.

can trace their lineage to the mother Hass tree.”

Splane offers the following advice for selecting “mouthwatering, velvety, creamy avocados” at local farmers’ markets or the grocery store: Firstly, make sure California is on the label, ensuring your fruit is “meticulously cared for … and responsibly grown.” Then, gently squeeze the fruit in the palm of your hand. Ripe, ready-to-eat fruit will yield to gentle pressure.

To ripen avocados, place the fruit in a paper bag and store at room temperature until ready to eat—usually two to five days.

“Adding an apple, banana, or a kiwi fruit in the bag accelerates the process, because these fruits give off ethylene, a natural hormone that promotes ripening,” Splane continued. “The more apples or kiwi fruit you add, the quicker your avocados will ripen.”

Conversely, to slow down the ripening process, store uncut avocados in the refrigerator for two or three days.

He cautions that color alone does not tell the whole story.

“For example, the Hass avocado will turn dark green to purplish-black as it ripens, but other avocado varieties retain their light-green

skin even when ripe,” he said.

Avocados are “a heart-healthy superfood and are naturally sodium-, cholesterol-, and trans fat-free,” Splane said. “They are also a good source of … fiber, potassium, folate, vitamin K, pantothenic acid (B5), and copper, an essential mineral that helps keep the blood vessels, nerves, immune system, and bones healthy.” m

Contributor Cherish Whyte is stocking up on her favorite fruit, which can even be frozen! Reach her at cwhyte@newtimesslo.com.

TART TRICK: To store cut avocado, the California Avocado Commission recommends sprinkling it with lemon juice, lime juice, or white vinegar, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container, then refrigerating it to prevent discoloration.

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