Sun, June 1, 2023

As we roll into national Pride Month, celebrating the LGBTQ-plus community seems especially poignant following a year of anti-trans legislation across the country, attempts to ban gender identity and sexual orientation from sex education, and fights in local schools and cities over rainbow flags and crosswalks. In 2023, SLO and Santa Barbara counties are hosting Pride events all June long. For this year’s annual Pride issue, Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor has event details for you [6]; and New Times Staff Writer Adrian Rosas from the Sun’s sister paper writes about trans visibility and what local organizations are doing to lift them up [8]

This week, you can also read about a new cannabis dispensary coming to Guadalupe [4]; the photography exhibit celebrating local LGBTQ-plus families [23]; and the fries that are waiting for you in Arroyo Grande [25].

photo courtesy of Deborah Chadsey Photography > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

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• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) co-led two bills aimed at strengthening U.S. supply chains, alleviating congestion, and improving efficiency in U.S. transportation corridors, according to a May 24 statement from the congressman’s office. The House Committee on Transportation advanced legislation that allows a variance of up to 10 percent weight between axles of a commercial vehicle when transporting dry goods like flour or grain—which allows potential shifts of dry bulk goods within the vehicle without violating weight-per axle regulations. Committee lawmakers also approved the Intelligent Transportation Integration Act that will help bring traffic management and planning “into the 21st century” by creating a federal program that will allow the use of anonymized, aggregated, secured data to inform both planning decisions and real-time traffic flow management decisions on the federal highway system. “Efficient and safe transportation corridors are not only critical to local commerce and our national economy, but they are also one of the most bedrock parts of a working family’s quality of life,” Carbajal said in the statement. “The time that it takes to get to work or school, the grocery store, the next town or county over—these are major factors that drive daily decisions on the Central Coast of California.”

• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) joined several other senators in introducing the bicameral EVs for All Act: legislation that would increase access to electric vehicles (EVs) for residents of public housing across the nation, according to a May 23 statement from Padilla’s office. Many of these individuals currently face limited or no access to EVs while grappling with high gas prices and disproportionate exposure to pollution from conventional vehicles. “California has been a leader in transitioning from polluting, gas-powered cars to zero-emission vehicles,” Padilla said in the statement. “But we have work to do to make electric vehicles accessible and affordable to all. By making EVs more accessible to residents of public housing—who face some of the worst air quality in the nation—we can begin to close the gap in access to clean and healthy transportation, safeguard clean air, and save working families costly trips to the gas pump.” Specifically, the legislation includes developing an EV car sharing program that will offer grants up to $1 million to public agencies, local governments, nonprofits to help implement EV car sharing services designed for public housing projects; allocate annual appropriations of up to $50 million from fiscal years 2024 to 2033; and comprehensive support to cover the various expenses associated with EV adoption.

• Gov. Gavin Newsom announced $39 million in state funding going to economic development projects across the state that support California’s transition to a low-carbon, green growth future, according to a May 24 statement from the governor’s office. The funds, awarded through the Community Economic Resilience Fund (CERF), support communities with their transition to more sustainable, climate-forward industries while strengthening access to good jobs. Launched in 2021, CERF is a $600 million program catalyzing high-growth, low-carbon industries and high-quality jobs in the transition to a clean energy economy. As part of CERF’s initial planning phase, 13 economic development entities known as High Road Transition Collaboratives were awarded $5 million each to develop roadmaps— including a strategy and recommended series of investments—for their region. Following the planning phase, the program’s implementation phase will provide $500 million to fund projects identified by the High Road Transition Collaboratives. “Our transition to a clean economy must include all Californians—that’s why we’re investing hundreds of millions of dollars into innovative projects across our state that put workers first,” Newsom said in the statement. “We’re leaving no one behind on our path to achieving world-leading climate goals that will slash pollution and supercharge our economy.” m

Guadalupe City Council green-lights upcoming cannabis dispensary

A cannabis retailer’s plan to open a new storefront in Guadalupe is moving forward with a conditional use permit.

Members of the Guadalupe City Council voted unanimously to grant Element 7, a Californiabased dispensary chain with shops in eight cities across the state, the permit during a public hearing on May 23.

The only condition of approval that Mayor Ariston Julian and his peers on the City Council scrutinized and agreed to revise before voting on the item was a condition regarding security bars.

The new dispensary will be located at an existing 2,500-square-foot building—previously occupied by Anthony’s Sports Bar—at 859 Guadalupe St., which has several wrought iron bars in front of its entry way. One of the Planning Department’s conditions of approval notes that “existing metal gates/bars at the front of the building entry shall be removed prior to facility operations.”

During the May 23 meeting, Julian referenced a letter that the City Council received from a former mayor of the city, Lupe Alvarez, who wrote in favor of the project’s approval but urged city officials not to remove the existing bars.

“If the custom ornate wrought iron is required to be removed, it opens up the entire patio area to an increase use of homelessness, public urination, graffiti, and other issues in the downtown corridor,” Alvarez wrote.

“My opinion is to keep them up,” Julian said after referencing Alvarez’s letter.

“I’m in favor of leaving the wrought iron up as well,” Councilmember Megan Lizalde said. “At this point, I don’t think for aesthetic reasons it needs to be removed, and I like the added level of control for that space.”

Contract city planner Bill Scott initially argued not to alter the condition and said that the dispensary will have “stringent security measures that minimize the need for the bars,” including roll-down security gates and high-pitch frequency “Mosquito” alarms to deter vandalism and loitering.

“I stand by our recommendation that the bars be removed,” Scott said. “Our point was just trying to find a harmonious design with a majority of the buildings downtown and the appeal of the downtown overall with new visitors.”

Lizalde said that the wrought iron bars are visually consistent with similar bars at other buildings in downtown Guadalupe, including

Nardo’s Restaurant and Don Charly’s Place.

“There’s bars all over the place,” Julian said. Ultimately, the Guadalupe City Council agreed to omit the bar removal requirement from the conditional use permit, which was approved in a 5-0 vote.

—Caleb Wiseblood

Santa Maria closer to zero emissions fleet with 16-bus purchase

Santa Maria purchased 16 new electric buses, and the City Council approved a new plan that analyzes its approach to achieving a 100 percent renewable energy fleet—putting it well ahead of the state’s 2040 deadline for local transportation agencies to transition to renewable energy, Transit Manager Gamaliel Anguiano said.

The California Air Resources Board is requiring all local jurisdictions to create an Innovative Clean Transit (ICT) plan that breaks down transit goals, identifies whether the city will use battery- or hydrogen-powered buses, and provides a schedule for the corresponding infrastructure construction like charging stations.

“The ICT Plan is a nonbinding general business plan that helps shape the approach to our transit system as we transition,” Anguiano said. “The value is certainly not only beneficial to our air quality but also a very strong business case for transitioning sooner rather than later.”

From an economic perspective, switching will save the city $300,000 annually in fuel and routine maintenance, Anguiano added. Electric vehicles also have 75 percent fewer moving parts than a typical engine combustion system, allowing the city to avoid current and future supply chain issues.

The Santa Maria Regional Transit (SMRT) plan that City Council approved as a consent calendar item during its May 16 meeting stated that it will use battery-powered buses. The city’s adjusted transportation model has shorter routes that are electric vehicle friendly and loop through the transit center—which will later become a charging station to allow buses to charge between stops, Anguiano said.

“The plan Santa Maria City Council adopted reflects a conservative approach to that transition, but I am happy to report [that] as a result of onetime windfalls in transit funding we are actually able to exceed the originally projected timeline for transitioning to electric buses,” Anguiano said.

During the plan’s early development, there were a lot of unknown financial implications for this transition, but the city later learned it was in

a better financial position that allowed the Public Works Department to “expedite” its transition, he said.

“By the time we got the 2022-24 fiscal year budget, we came to the realization that Santa Maria had the ability to buy 16 additional buses through a Low or No Emission Vehicle federal grant, which provided $6.6 million in funding,” Anguiano said.

The buses are expected to be delivered in early 2024 and will be modernized vehicles that include a tap-to-pay system, 5G Wi-Fi, and USB charging capabilities in every seat.

The grant funding also covers additional required equipment like charging infrastructure. The city is scheduled to start construction this summer or fall on 17 new charging stations—with each station able to charge up to two buses.

“This is all a part of Santa Maria Regional Transit’s bigger process of updating our service and modernizing our service that comes with route changes and services improvements that we continue to put in place,” Anguiano said.

Coming out of the pandemic, SMRT modified its routes, adding stops at Pioneer Valley High School to meet the commute needs of high school students, and increased stops at commercial, medical, and employment centers, he added.

“The shortening of the routes makes them more concise: Buses come every 45 minutes, and that increase makes riding transit more attractive as you have to wait less,” Anguiano said.

Ridership has grown 30 percent from its lowest point in the pandemic. With additional route refinements coming in July, regional route improvements, and the addition of electric vehicles, Anguiano said that he expects SMRT will provide half a million rides at this same time next year.

“We’ve enacted decisive changes to our transit system that have better equipped it to handle the challenges while simultaneously better serving our community and that’s resulted in actual ridership increase,” he said. “While we’re not at pre-pandemic levels, the trend indicates that we are on our way.”

—Taylor O’Connor

Five Cities Fire Authority agrees to Oceano’s contract terms

The Oceano Community Services District (OCSD) prevailed in its attempt to negotiate an interim emergency fire and medical services

VISUALLY CONSISTENT: The Guadalupe City Council recently discussed whether or not an upcoming cannabis dispensary’s design would fit in aesthetically with other buildings in downtown Guadalupe, before ultimately granting the project a conditional use permit.

contract with the Five Cities Fire Authority (FCFA).

In a unanimous vote on May 24, the Arroyo Grande City Council accepted the changes the OCSD wanted to a proposal the city had drafted with its neighbor Grover Beach. Grover Beach also agreed to the OCSD’s suggestions.

The two cities are trying to figure out what the future of fire services could look like given that the OCSD left the FCFA due to a lack of funding. The OCSD will officially stop being a member of the FCFA on June 30.

The proposal sets terms for contractual fire services in the OCSD until the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) approves the community services district’s application to officially relinquish its responsibility to provide fire services to its community. Following the LAFCO process, the OCSD hopes that San Luis Obispo County will eventually step in to provide fire services.

Arroyo Grande Councilmember Lan George said at the May 24 meeting that there’s “light” at the end of the long tunnel of discussions that were set into motion when the OCSD decided to exit the FCFA last year.

“I would like to move forward in good faith … so that when the divesture does occur, the county, LAFCO, Oceano can say, ‘Hey, let’s move forward with a plan to contract fire services with the Five Cities Fire Authority,’” she said.

Accepting the OCSD’s suggested terms means the new proposed contract will expand in duration from nine months to a year. Contracting those fire services will now cost the OCSD $1.15 million compared to the initially drafted $1.2 million. The district will have to pay an equivalent prorated monthly

cost should the contract extend beyond 12 months.

Despite added costs to the cities, the Arroyo Grande City Council acknowledged that all parties are running out of time to set a new FCFA contract given that the OCSD’s June 30 exit date is looming and that the LAFCO process is expected to take roughly 12 to 18 months to complete.

An amended and restated joint powers agreement—that sets the terms and funding formula governing the FCFA—must be approved on June 13. That approval will set the new FCFA board on June 19, which will now be formed by two representatives each from Arroyo Grande and Grover Beach.

The board’s first order of business will be to approve two contracts with the OCSD—the limited term contract for fire services and an agreement on the OCSD’s ongoing California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) liabilities to FCFA employees. Under the old joint powers agreement, the two cities and the OCSD are responsible for paying their share of postretirement benefit obligations incurred by the FCFA for the time that the agency was a member.

Arroyo Grande City Manager Whitney McDonald told the Sun prior to the May 24 meeting that the OCSD will have to continue to pay this unfunded liability even after it leaves the FCFA.

“It is anticipated that Oceano will either pay for its share of the ongoing payments that the FCFA makes for its [unfunded liabilities] each year until the total obligation is paid off, or it pay off this obligation as a lump sum payment,” she said, noting that the lump sum was estimated to cost “approximately $1.56 million.” m

—Bulbul Rajagopal

The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Special

Education Child Find

The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) seeks to identify, locate, and evaluate high school age students suspected of having a disability who may be eligible for special education services designed to meet their educational needs at no cost to families. This includes students that are highly mobile, migrant, experiencing homelessness, students that are wards of the state, and students attending private schools located within SMJUHSD boundaries.

If you suspect your child has a disability, contact the school special education department or district office Special Education Department. Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)

El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria Educación Especial Búsqueda de Estudiantes

El Distrito Unificado de Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria (SMJUHSD) busca identificar, localizar y evaluar a los estudiantes en edad de escuela preparatoria sospechosos de tener una discapacidad que puede ser elegible para servicios de educación especial diseñados para satisfacer sus necesidades educativas sin costo alguno para las familias. Esto incluye a los estudiantes que son altamente móviles, migrantes, sin hogar, estudiantes que están bajo la tutela del estado, y los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas privadas ubicadas dentro los limites de SMJUHSD.

Si sospecha que su hijo tiene una discapacidad, comuníquese con el departamento de educación especial de la escuela u oficina de Educación Especial del distrito SMJUHSD.Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)

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Inclusivity and visibility

Santa Barbara and SLO county-based LGBTQ-plus organizations host Pride events throughout June

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

Festivals, parades, performances, and resource fairs are happening up and down the Central Coast throughout Pride Month in June.

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Santa Ynez Valley Pride is hosting an event nearly every week; Santa Maria’s House of Pride and Equality makes a comeback with its first in-person Pride festival since the pandemic; and SLO County’s Central Coast Pride is hosting a burlesque and drag show, a festival, and the return of its famous Pride in the Plaza. So get a group of your friends together, dress in your most colorful gear (glitter recommended, but not required), and support the LGBTQ-plus community.

Santa Maria Pride Festival, June 10

Santa Maria-based organization House of Pride and Equality (HOPE) is hosting an in-person Pride festival for the first time in nearly three years after the pandemic halted its operations, HOPE Board President Suzette Lopez said.

“We’ve been in a time of transitioning and we are rebuilding and the board has had some changes with leadership,” she said. “We’re trying to do events people would be interested in. Some are for all ages, some are for older groups, but it’s nice to see the people that come in and make community with us.”

This year’s festival will be held on June 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Santa Maria Fairpark and will feature a drag show, live music, a dance tent, a photo booth, a children and youth lounge, plenty of food, a beer garden, a resource fair, and a maker’s market, Lopez said.

“At the end of the day, Pride events are a celebration of love, and that’s why we decided to make that our theme this year: Love is Love. Everyone should have the opportunity to celebrate that, and that is our main goal—to create a space where people can share some love with us,” she said.

The founding board members, Lopez said, saw a great need to grow support for Santa Maria LGBTQ-plus community members—especially those also in the Latino community—after the 2016 Orlando Pulse Nightclub shooting where a gunman entered the gay nightclub, killed 49 people, and wounded 53 more.

The organization hosted its first Pride in 2017 and grew each year until the pandemic hit, halting that momentum. HOPE hosted virtual Pride in 2020, and hosted the Santa Maria Drag Show in 2021 and 2022 in honor of Pride, she added.

While HOPE is still searching for a permanent location, Lopez said the priority is to continue building community partnerships, make sure HOPE’s name is known in the community, and invite residents to join the organization.

“Right now, what we’re trying to do is get back in our lane and keep moving forward, and one of those ways is building those relationships again and [reminding] people what HOPE has done and what it will continue to do in the community,” she said.

As of May 19, HOPE was still looking for more volunteers and more vendors to participate in the makers market. Visit houseofprideandequality.org for more information.

SYV Pride Parade and Festival, June 24

While the first Santa Ynez Valley-based nonprofit dedicated to the LGBTQ-plus community is holding with its second annual Pride Parade and Festival, SYV Pride is also hosting wine tasting events, a karaoke night, a silent disco, and yoga in the park throughout June, Vice President Alyce Barrick said.

“Last year, our Pride parties/events were mainly during one week that supported our parade, and this year we’re taking on the entire month of Pride—from the 1st to the 30th,” Barrick said. “The biggest takeaway is that we are highlighting places that are queer friendly, a safe space, and inclusive.”

SYV Pride President Lauren Lastra added that they’ve been intentional with what vendors and tables they allow at the festival in Solvang as well—making sure they align with SYV Pride’s mission and support the queer community “outside of one event every month.”

“Of course it’s a huge celebration, but it also goes much deeper than that in what we’re building and creating,” Lastra said. “Really for the queer community, visibility can be a matter of life and death. To feel seen and a sense of belonging in the community can mean a lot to people.”

Earlier this year, SYV Pride supported fellow LGBTQ-plus nonprofit The Rainbow House Inc., and students in Santa Ynez Valley Union High School’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) in their separate efforts to bring more LGBTQ-plus representation to Solvang and the greater Santa Ynez Valley—which resulted in community backlash against the efforts that garnered international attention and caused the high school principal to resign.

“We did intentionally keep our parade in Solvang to have that presence, to affirm that we are here, we’re not going anywhere, and we are going to continue amplifying and lifting up the community,” Lastra said.

Lastra added that State Sen. Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara), U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara), and the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus have reached out to SYV Pride with interest in attending this year’s event and showing support in light of the turmoil.

“Since our established presence in the valley, there have been ebbs and flows … but here we are again going into Pride Month and we’ve been floored by the community outreach saying they want to partner, celebrate Pride, and be a part of this community as allies and members of the LGBTQIA-plus community,” Lastra said.

Find SYV Pride’s full event calendar and more details at syvpride.org/events.

SLO’s Central Coast Pride Festival, June 2

San Luis Obispo County has been celebrating Pride since 1997, and has continued growing since its first celebration in SLO’s Mission Plaza, said Central Coast Pride Director Laura Albers.

“It’s a place to be you and have that be totally OK, and unfortunately we don’t have enough places like that in our world,” Lastra said.

In 2022, Central Coast Pride—which is a GALA Pride and Diversity Center program— hosted its first two-and-a-half-day Pride Festival at Laguna Lake Park, steering away from its longstanding tradition at the Mission Plaza.

“Having it at Laguna Lake Park, you had to intend to come there, whereas in Mission Plaza people didn’t [have to] know what was going on and they would happen upon it. Having it in a place where people had to intend to be there created a really wonderfully safe environment for people,” she said.

As a “trial year,” Albers and her team decided to include everything Central Coast Pride’s planning committee considered doing for Pride, including a Drag and Burlesque Show at the Fremont Theater on June 2 (which is now sold out), its Pride Festival at Laguna Lake Park on June 3, and Pride in the Plaza on June 4, she said.

“Our theme this year is We Are Family. We’re doing as much as we can to promote the idea that this is family, we are family, and we have families,” Albers said. “Families come in all different configurations, but they are still humans and still Central Coast residents and still doing the things families do.”

Pride is not just about celebration, it’s also about building awareness as a historic amount of anti-LGBTQ-plus legislation has passed in states across the country in the last year—particularly targeting transgender people, she added. With this expansion of events, Lastra said she hopes LGBTQ-plus people will feel supported, and allies or “allies in training” learn something new.

“First and foremost, they are the most fun events ever; there is no party like a Pride party. No, you do not have to be identified within the LGBTQ-plus community at all,” she said. “All are welcome, and we want you to come out. They are fun places you can be you no matter who you are.”

Visit slopride.com/events for Central Coast Pride’s full calendar and more event information. m

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

ROUND TWO: Local food vendors, live music, and resource booths at SYV Pride’s 2022 festival will be back for this year’s June 24 celebration.

‘Celebration is resistance’

Trans Pride Weekend honors trans individuals on the Central Coast

BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

Meadow Park in San Luis Obispo is no stranger to hosting events—but on May 27, it was host to something Ila Moncreif considers to be more impactful than just another random event.

“This was a space that is welcoming to everyone,” the Tranz Central Coast board chair told the Sun. “We wanted it to be an opportunity for people—whether they be trans or allies—to reach out and get connected.”

Together with Central Coast Pride and the Gala Pride and Diversity Center, Tranz Central Coast organized Trans Pride at Park, a day dedicated to celebrating individuals who identify as trans, nonbinary, intersex, and gender-fluid. The celebration’s part of a slew of events scheduled for Pride Month on the Central Coast, and it was one way to provide a safe space and resources for what Moncreif said can be an underrepresented LGBTQ-plus group.

“People can sometimes take it for granted—and while I can only speak for myself and my experiences—the cultural environment has been hostile to trans people,” she said. “This mere act of getting together and celebrating trans people on the Central Coast is so moving and impactful.”

The event featured activities for people from all walks of life to enjoy in the company of each other with open mics, food trucks, trans-support-centered nonprofits, photo booths, and drag performances.

Moncreif said that while the focus was to celebrate, the most important parts of the event were the resources being offered in the community building at the park’s center. There, participants were able to receive health care advice—something that Moncreif told the Sun can be hard to come by due to the social stigma and cost associated with trans care.

The building also housed a clothing exchange and the opportunity to receive free haircuts courtesy of Tiger Lily Studio.

“Everything they would need or want help with we had there,” Moncreif said. “We asked ourselves as we planned the event, ‘What do trans, nonbinary, intersex folks need?’”

Like other Central Coast Pride coordinated events, this one also featured spots where people could clear their minds or escape the social buzz—like mediation meadows and wellness walkways.

“Our goal was to uplift people who feel or who have literally been left behind by our institution,” she said. “I want events like this to be important to trans folks because they deserve to be safe and feel supported in their communities.”

Trans Pride at the Park was one of three events that Moncreif helped coordinate alongside Central Coast Pride Director Laura Albers. The other two days featured a drag show at Libertine Brewing Company on May 26 and a Zoom panel on May 29 highlighting the experiences of being trans on the Central Coast.

“Trans individuals have—across U.S. history—historically been left out of discussions when it comes to celebrating LGTBQplus groups,” Albers said. “So rather than just having a singular

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‘Trans Day of Visibility,’ we wanted to do a whole weekend to raise awareness and offer resources.”

Both Albers and Moncreif are hopeful that the event’s success will not only shed more light on the transgender community on the Central Coast but also help trans individuals feel more welcome to be out and about in their daily lives.

“To have these spaces where people can just go and be themselves is more important than I think most people realize,” Albers said. “They don’t have to be a trans person walking out at the park; they can just be a person at the park enjoying their time.”

Moncreif said that many trans individuals often struggle with day-to-day interactions with the world, so offering them an opportunity to feel normal and gain some skills or access to tools that could help them or those around them is very important.

“There is this saying in the trans community that, ‘You aren’t just coming out once, you are coming out every day of your life,’” she said. “It’s a challenge for a lot of people to navigate pronoun usage in the workspace, manage health care, or even just walk downtown.”

With the success of Trans Pride at the Park, everyone involved in planning it hopes that its impact is felt by more than just those who attended or read about it.

“All of the events—whether it’s the one we just held or future

events—are open to allies,” Albers said. “Everyone who wants to come and celebrate is welcome and encouraged no matter the time or place.”

Albers and Moncreif both emphasized that no matter where they’re being held, events like Trans Pride at the Park open the door for more acceptance and dialogue across the Central Coast.

“We have talked to groups throughout SLO County and north Santa Barbara County about putting more events like this on, which will only continue with each passing day,” Moncreif said. “This is a sustainable event that has real momentum, and it is desperately needed in a county where we still have a lot to figure out and learn to accept.”

Moncreif said that acceptance and impact are what truly matter, especially at a time when government and societal forces are at odds with people in the LGBTQ-plus community.

“Celebration is resistance,” she said. “Even if that celebration just affects one person’s life, it means something, and that is more important than people can ever imagine.” m

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

PRIDE ALL THE TIME: Whether it’s Trans Pride at the Park, which took place on May 27 in Meadow Park in SLO, or any other event, Central Coast Pride and Tranz Central Coast are doing what they can to bring acceptance and support to all trans individuals on the Central Coast.

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

& Rituals, Morro Bay

SLOFunny Comedy

Jamboree - Grover Beach

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7

Ribline by the Beach, Grover Beach

Songwriters at Play: Matt Axton and Badmoon

THURSDAY, JUNE 8 SLO Wine & Beer Co., San Luis Obispo

SLOFunny Comedy

Jamboree – Morro Bay

SUNDAY, JUNE 11 Morro Bay Eagles Club, Morro Bay

Sunset Yoga in Morro Bay

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

Tremendos del 805 and Banda Real 12-21

FRIDAY, JUNE 16 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Abyssal, Laceration, Isineratehymn & Poxx

FRIDAY, JUNE 16 Dark Nectar Coffee, Atascadero

Yoga /Kayak to the Lighthouse

SUNDAY, JUNE 18 Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

SLOFunny Comedy Show

SATRUDAY, JUNE 24 Veterans Memorial Building, Morro Bay

ATTENTION all former SMJUHSD Special Education Students born 1997 and 1998!

All records for any Special Education student that was born within 1997-1998 and attended a Santa Maria Joint Union High School District school, your physical special education records are available for pick up at no charge from the District Office. All 1997 Records not picked up by June 1, 2022 and 1998 Records not picked up by June 1, 2023 will be destroyed.

If you have any questions, or to arrange a pickup date/time, contact:

Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. of Special Education

Santa Maria Joint Union High School District

2560 Skyway Dr., Santa Maria, CA 93455

805-922-4573 ext. 4311

ATENCION estudiantes anteriores de SMJUHSD nacidos en 1997 y 1998!

Todos los registros de cualquier estudiante de Educación Especial que haya nacido dentro de 1997 -1998 y asistió a una escuela del Distrito Escolar de las escuelas preparatorias de Santa Maria, sus registros físicos de educación especial están disponibles para recoger sin cargo en la Oficina del Distrito. Todos los registros del 1997 que no hayan sido recogidos para el 1 de junio de 2022 y registros del 1998 que no hayan sido recogidos para el 1 de junio de 2023 serán destruidos.

Si tiene alguna pregunta, o para programar una fecha/hora de recogida, comuníquense con:

Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. de Educacion Especial

Santa Maria Joint Union High School District

2560 Skyway Dr., Santa Maria, CA 93455

805-922-4573 ext. 4311

The Central Coast Guide to All Things

More than tobacco

Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley hosts educational opportunities for parents, students about substance use

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley formed in 2003 as the Drug and Alcohol Coalition to educate the community’s youth on tobacco, alcohol, and other substances.

Since then, the nonprofit has continued to address youth substance use by providing youth and parent educational opportunities, school organizations, and community wide events. It hosted its third annual Prevention Summit on May 31, said Gina Cortez, Fighting Back’s Tobacco Use Prevention Education program manager.

Educational opportunies

from county Behavioral Wellness discussed the Headspace mental health app and its new It’s OK website—a campaign that promotes mental health services—gave a presentation on the fentanyl crisis, and conducted a Narcan training, Cortez said. Along with that, there was a special guest speaker who addressed the importance of integrating hip-hop culture into advocacy. Following presentations, Fighting Back also included Hidden in Plain Sight—a mock teen bedroom that enables parents or guardians to see what paraphernalia is being used and how they are disguised.

“Our goal is to provide up-to-date information to our attendees and members of the community. We like to get the information that’s out there and address the need currently in our areas,” she said.

Visit fbsmv.com, like Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley’s Facebook page, or follow them on Instagram @fbsmv to stay up to date with the nonprofit’s parent and youth education and substance use prevention programs.

“Hidden in Plain Sight is incorporating new trends we are seeing at the schools, new paraphernalia, so we want to keep parents in the know. We will also be having two of our Youth Champions talk about the current trends,” Cortez said.

The summit came from the 2014 Santa Barbara County Tobacco Use Prevention Education grant, which allows Fighting Back to assist the county’s 20 school districts in developing substance prevention and education programs and parent information as an effort to combat youth substance use, Cortez said.

“We continue to offer a parent education component, parent presentations that cover everything. We go into details about paraphernalia, new trends,” she said. “We talk about fentanyl, new code words, we go into great depth to give them the most information they can to start those conversations with children.”

In light of the opioid epidemic and high school student opioid overdoses, Fighting Back is working with Santa Maria Mayor Alice Patino and other community leaders to provide additional presentations in the four quadrants of Santa Maria starting this summer, she said. The presentations will be promoted on social media, sent out through ParentSquare notifications, and included in city press releases.

“We also have a voluntary program called Not on Tobacco for students looking to quit that provides education and support for them,” Cortez added. “We have clubs on campus like the Fresh Air Tobacco Free club for students who want to make a difference, advocating for a tobacco-free campus.”

Fighting Back also provides presentations for sixth graders about the dangers of vaping and information about how it can impact a developing brain.

During the Tobacco Prevention Summit, speakers

Promote!

Send

This mock-up is specifically geared toward parents and educators, and Fighting Back doesn’t film or take pictures of it to prevent this from getting in the hands of the youth and allowing them to learn how to hide things, she added.

“I think it’s important information for everybody, especially if you work with youth, you should be informed,” Cortez said. “We want to be that place [where] you can look for resources and solutions, we want to continue to bring light to it.”

Highlight:

• The Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department released its Summer Recreation Guide: A comprehensive guide that features a variety of activities for every age group. Activities include art classes, seasonal programs, fitness programs, sports, and community events. The Recreation and Parks Department is particularly excited about the much-anticipated Concerts in the Park Series and new free excursions through the SMORE program. While most programs and events are offered at low or no cost, financial assistance for registration may be available for qualifying individuals through the department’s partnership with People for Leisure and Youth Inc. Visit cityofsantamaria.org to get a copy of the summer guide. Direct questions to the Recreation and Parks Department at (805) 925-0951, Ext. 2260. m

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

TANGIBLE PRESENTATIONS: Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley’s Tobacco Prevention Summit highlights its Hidden in Plain Sight presentation that sets up a mock bedroom and discusses how youth are disguising tobacco products and other substances.

What summer activity are you most looking forward to?

63% Vacations and staycations.

37% Going to outdoor concerts at parks and other venues.

0% Bonfires at the beach.

0% Watching someone cry after dropping their ice cream cone.

8 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

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This stinks!

County supervisors need to experience the stench surrounding cannabis operations before ruling on permit appeals

BY RON FINK

Anyone living near a cannabis operation is familiar with the horrendous stink that lingers in the air 24 hours a day for months at a time. Some of these operations are close to Lompoc, and being someone who lives in the odor path, I can tell you that these operations have a serious impact on my family’s quality of life. We cannot open windows to take advantage of natural ventilation or exercise outdoors during the day. The odors find their way into our home even when the windows and doors are tightly closed. There are increased utility costs associated with operating in-home air filtering and ventilation systems to improve indoor air quality. And it’s hard to sleep when odors creep into our home.

The permitting authorities seemingly don’t care about this issue; however, there are some exceptions.

Repeated odor complaints are ignored.

As reported in the Santa Barbara Independent in mid-May of this year, back in 2021 one such growing operation in the South County was sued by the county of Santa Barbara for creating a “continuing public nuisance” after they received numerous complaints from people who were adversely impacted by the skunk-like odors.”

The operation “constitutes a continuing public nuisance” and has committed “acts of unfair competition,” the county alleged according to the article. By failing to comply with “regulatory safety measures,” it said, Island Breeze and Island View Ranch were profiting “to the detriment of lawful cannabis businesses operating in the county.”

But that didn’t stop the stink.

“As recently as March 3, the following anonymous odor complaint was filed with the county with reference to 3376

Foothill: ‘Woke up in my bedroom this morning to the stench of pot, and my right nostril clogged. Every door and window closed in the house. It comes down our shower vents and chimney!

After several minutes, I had a headache. This has got to stop,’” according to the article.

The permitting authority for cannabis grows is Santa Barbara County beginning with the Planning Commission, and even though the county had sued the applicant, the Planning Commission approved their permit. Citizens can appeal decisions of the Planning Commission, however, as the article reports: “The county usually approves cannabis permits on appeal. In drafting their cannabis ordinance of 2018, the supervisors sought to ‘develop a robust and economically viable legal cannabis industry,’ overriding ‘significant and unavoidable’ impacts from ‘objectionable odors.’”

In other words, they really don’t care about the voters they serve, only the all-powerful cannabis lobby that seems to have taken over the county. And of course, there was the anticipated revenue stream that they thought they could get when voters approved Prop. 64, which legalized cannabis a few years ago.

The lone exception is 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann. She knows firsthand how these operations impact folks living nearby. Her home is in the odor path of a pot plantation, and when coming to her offices in Lompoc she passes by another smelly grow on Highway 246 less than a mile east of Lompoc. She has been the lone dissenting vote when the Board of Supervisors majority denies an appeal of a Planning Commission decision concerning cannabis operations.

I always thought that elected officials were there to serve most of their constituents, not favor a group of applicants. Apparently, I was wrong. Most cannabis operators are from outside of our county and don’t care that they are causing such a dramatic impact on the quality of life for so many citizens.

What’s most troubling is that when the county was considering the cannabis ordinance a few years ago, it totally ignored repeated warnings by the constituents concerning the odors they had experienced during illegal growing operations. If they had

asked law enforcement officers who raided these operations, they would have known that the stink is overwhelming.

But the Board of Supervisosrs ignored the warnings, and even today, after receiving thousands of complaints from all over the county, they keep their collective “heads in the sand” concerning the adverse impact of these operations. Instead, they seem more concerned about the potential revenue that the grows may provide; I guess they haven’t read all the reports of lowerthan-expected tax revenue from this industry.

It’s amazing how these politicians can continue to be reelected when they don’t respect the concerns of voters who put them in those chairs. Perhaps it would be instructive for the Board of Supervisors to hold a public hearing concerning the next cannabis permit appeal in the neighborhood that is being impacted by the odors to get a sense of just how the stink disrupts the lives of folks living near them.

I am guessing that just one trip for a multihour permit appeal hearing when odors are present will be enough to convince them there is a tangible adverse impact on the quality of life they have knowingly allowed to exist. m

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

What’s really behind the Richards Ranch annexation proposal?

I wonder if we have been asking the wrong questions regarding Richards Ranch LLC and its application to annex county key site 26 into the city of Santa Maria.

The two questions we might consider:

1) Who are the members of the Richards Ranch LLC, and

2) What is their goal?

Over a year ago, I did ask who the members of the LLC were. Because the city of Santa Maria had provided Michael Stoltey with my personal information, it seemed reasonable that I be given the same information of the members. I sent an email to Michael Stoltey, which went unanswered. I sent letters to Michael Stoltey at both the street and P.O. box addresses on record with the secretary of state. One came back to me “unclaimed” and the other “attempted/not known.”

Last night’s meeting, May 23, presented by Michael Stoltey, managing member of Richards Ranch LLC, confused most attendees by focusing on “conceptual” design plans that have not been submitted to the city of Santa Maria for review. The only thing submitted for review is an application for annexation and pre-zoning.

This annexation process is overwhelmingly complicated. But, to simplify: Richards Ranch’s annexation application triggered the need for an EIR (environmental impact report). The draft stage of the EIR will be completed September after the comments we submitted are addressed. From there the request for annexation (with completed EIR) goes to the city Planning Commission, then City Council, and finally City Council submits the annexation application to LAFCO (Local Agency Formation Commission).

This process, up to the LAFCO review, is entirely within the city of Santa Maria’s discretion/purview, not the county’s. If annexed, the property will remain surrounded by county/ Orcutt residents who will have no voice for how it is developed and managed.

This brings us back to Richards Ranch LLC. Who are the members directing this annexation, and why would they choose this path rather than striving for one of mutual regional cooperation?

Susan Bryant Orcutt

Janet Silveria, President/CEO

A right to visibility

s Pride Month raises its fantastic colors on the Central Coast, it feels extra prescient. History feels omnipresent, rather than in the not-too-distant past, when it comes to discrimination—both outright and under-theradar—against the LGBTQ-plus community. The outrage against what rainbow flags symbolize for some people isn’t unique to the Santa Ynez . And the irony in that outrage is how impeccably it worked to bring awareness to the issues that continue to exist for certain members of Gay. Lesbian. Bisexual. Transgender. Queer. Intersex. Asexual.

In June, we celebrate the fact that they can be visible. That they no longer have to hide who they are. Even though some people in Santa Ynez made it overtly clear that they should stay hidden because to be visible is apparently to be “political.”

Pride is about resistance; it’s about standing up to society and staking a claim, proclaiming a right to exist and forcing change. Pride Month commemorates the historic Stonewall uprising against police raiding gay bars over and over again, arresting those inside, beating them, and prosecuting them for being gay.

It’s about celebrating visibility, personhood. While some may claim that society has come a long way since June 28, 1969, Santa Ynez Valley residents, their actions, and the fight over something meant to symbolize joy and freedom prove that society is nowhere near where it needs to be.

People like Solvang City Councilmember Robert Clarke just don’t seem to understand that the rainbow flag was created as a symbol of pride for the gay community—whose members lived in the dark for so long, being true to themselves only in the shadows. Like so many minority communities, they were persecuted, arrested simply for being themselves.

Those colors are a way of proclaiming a space, reality, visibility, and truth. And while those colors may have initially represented white, gay men, they have grown to be an umbrella for more. Even that has been a hard push, one that’s ongoing for members of the trans community, especially, right now.

All I really heard in the fight over hanging Pride-themed banners in Solvang was a purposeful lack of understanding, a bigotry that’s imbedded within the psyche of those who’ve neglected to see the life experiences of those who are different. A desperate grasp at culture war fodder to make themselves seem relevant. An outright refusal to see reality through the eyes of another. That perception makes it easy to be upset about being “forced” to view a flag that reminds you that the world is bigger than you. That perception is an excuse for ignorance, an excuse to be angry and scapegoat something by labeling it “political,” when it’s so much deeper than that.

With anti-LGBTQ-plus sentiment invading our law-making processes, taking up space during school board and city council meetings, and commanding so much screen time around the country, Pride Month is a necessary reminder that people should be celebrated for being who they are in a world where some folks want them to be anything but. ❍

The Canary already has an outfit picked out for the parade. Send comments to canary@ santamarisun.com.

“I wanted a bank that would help me take life by the horns” - Luke Branquinho

Thursday June 1 –

Sunday June 11 activities such as: Treks throughout the county, a movie night, Family Days at the Arroyo ice-cream happy hour at The Sweet Stuff in Buellton, shopping days at REI, Patagonia, and Mountain Breweries in Buellton and Santa Barbara and much, much more. Join us!

your summer with discovery, exploration, and delight

June 1

NIGHT! Wetland Theater, 7pm.

June 7

STROLL Preserve 8pm

Saturday, June 3

FAMILY DAY! Arroyo Hondo Preserve 10am – 4pm

Sunday, June 4

TREK: EXPLORE Burton Mesa Ecological Reserve Lompoc, 9 – 11am

Thursday, June 8

McConnell’s ICE CREAM HAPPY HOUR Funk Zone and downtown Santa Barbara locations

It’s the Sweet Stuff ICE CREAM HAPPY HOUR Buellton, 12pm-8pm

SHOPPING DAY at J. McLaughlin Montecito, 10am – 6pm

HAPPY HOUR

Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company

Funk Zone and Buellton locations. All day promotion. $1 from each beer purchased will support the Land Trust.

Monday, June 5

PATAGONIA SHOPPING DAY

Great Pacific Iron Works, Ventura, 10am – 6pm

Friday, June 9

GARDEN GOSSIP

“Native Plants” 1290 AM, 11am – 12pm

“START WITH ART” with the Santa Barbara Public Library Santa Barbara, 2pm-3pm

Thursday June 1 through

Sunday June 11, 2023

TREK: BREAKFAST with the Land Trust Ennisbrook Open Space, Montecito, 9am – 11am, San Leandro Lane

Saturday, June 10

TREK: Midland School Los Olivos, 8am – 10am

SUMMER

READING KICKOFF with the Santa Barbara Public Library 11am – 1pm

Tuesday, June 6

Land Trust/ Heal the Ocean BEACH CLEAN-UP West Beach, Santa Barbara, 9am – 11am

Sunday, June 11

KIDS DRAW NATURE at the Carpinteria Bluffs 9am – 11am

SHOPPING DAY at REI Santa Barbara, 10am – 7pm

KIDS COOKING CLASS

Apples to Zucchini Cooking School streaming 4pm – 5pm

details, reservations, and up-to-the-minute updates, the Land Trust website www.sblandtrust.org

www.sblandtrust.org

MISSION STATEMENT

The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County conserves natural resources, agricultural land and open spaces for the benefit of present and future generations.

With special thanks to our partners: North Campus Open Space, Heal the Ocean, Patagonia, J. McLaughlin, REI, McConnell’s Ice-Cream, Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company, LaBarge Winery, Montecito Landscape, The Garden Club of Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Public Library, Apples to Zucchini Cooking School, It’s the Sweet Stuff

Hot Stuff

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU OLIVES

Local olive oil vendors, winemakers, and chefs will take part in the upcoming Los Olivos Jazz and Olive Festival, slated to take place on Saturday, June 10, from 1 to 4 p.m., at Lavinia Campbell Park. The annual event, which also includes live jazz music, is hosted by the Los Olivos Rotary Club. Visit jazzandolivefestival.org for more info. Lavinia Park is located at 2398 Alamo Pintado 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/.

FAMILY CRAFT TIME 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. 805-925-0994.

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

LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL

DANCE: WEST COAST SWING Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45 p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:308:15 p.m. 805-344-1630. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY

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

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

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. 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/city-government/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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 DITZ Opening reception will be held on May 26, from 7 to 9 p.m. Through Aug. 13 elverhoj.org. Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, 805-686-1211.

SEDGWICK RESERVE: A CONSERVATION

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

SHADES OF LIGHT Gallery Los Olivos exhibits Vicki Anderson and Neil Andersson during the month of June, in “a stunning show of color and light. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through June 30 805-6887517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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.

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.

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. Through July 15 americanmelodrama.com. Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

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.

FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is

INDEX

Arts

free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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. 805747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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/.

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/.

PAINT YOUR PET ArtSocial805 will walk you through the process of painting your very own beloved pet and creating a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. June 4, 1-3 p.m. $40. 805-747-4200. artsocial805.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

PAINT YOUR PET WITH ART SOCIAL 805 Join Art Social 805 as they walk you through the process of painting your very own beloved pet and creating a one-of-a-kind masterpiece at Art Central.

June 4 1-3 p.m. $40 per person. 805-7474200. artsocial805.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. PARENT-CHILD POTTERY CLASS Make lasting memories with clay together as a family. For ages 6 and over. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon $70. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

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.

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.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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.

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.

Hot Stuff

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. Mondays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through June 29 Free. 805-7721068. 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.

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.

SLOFUNNY COMEDY JAMBOREE Visit site for info on this live event’s comedy lineup, tickets, and more. June 11 , 6-7:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Eagles Club, 2988 Main St, Morro Bay, 805-772-1384.

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.

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.

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 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. 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 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.

HISTORICAL HYSTERIA

The remaining performances of the Lompoc Civic Theatre’s production of The Revolutionists will be held on Saturday, June 10, and Saturday, June 17, at the Mission Club. 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. The Mission Club is located at 4300 Club House Road, Lompoc. —C.W.

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.

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. 805-9250994. 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 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.

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

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 welcome.

June 10 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Shepard Hall Art Gallery - Santa Maria Public Library, 421 South 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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. Starts at $70. 805-835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach. CAMP AG JAMBOREE Features hands-on activities, historical displays, live music, 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.

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.

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.

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.

SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. 805-9046615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover 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.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 20

Hot Stuff

SAN LUIS OBISPO

AGILITY (PARKOUR) CLINIC In a world where the “cool” kids seem to rule, Agility (aka parkour) offers a path to social confidence. No experience is necessary, so come transform from timid to triumphant and flip with flair. For ages 5-17. June 10, 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; $10 per additional sibling. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/events. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

“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. 805-215-5474. smartsharehousingsolutions.org/ag-aduthow/. Online, 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.

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.

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. 805541-1400. 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.

THE GRIEF RECOVERY METHOD (ON ZOOM) The Grief Recovery Method is an effective way to help people cope with grief and loss. It is a structured program that provides tools and techniques for dealing with grief. This is an educational, secular class. Facilitated by Diann Davisson. Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m. and Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. through June 28 $150 (includes book). 714-273-9014. spiritualliving.org. Online, San Luis Obispo.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT

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

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.

LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT

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

LUNCHTIME IN THE GARDEN UC Master Gardener Program of SLO County extends an invitation to the public. Bring your

START THE DAY AT THE BAY

Aurora Adventures founder and instructor Dawn Feuerberg will host her next shamanic morning rituals program in Morro Bay on Wednesday, June 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Participants of the class are asked to meet at the beach access parking lot, located at 102 Atascadero Road, Morro Bay. Admission is $34 and tickets are available in advance at my805tix.com. Call (805) 540-1762 for more details.

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.

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.

MY TIME This is a free event celebrating LGBTQIA+ families with young children on the Central Coast. June 1 5-7 p.m. Free. 805-545-5874. slocm.org/my-time. San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum, 1010 Nipomo St., 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. 805-541-4252. slopride.com/.

Mission Plaza, Downtown, San Luis Obispo.

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. 805-541-4252. slopride.com/. Laguna Lake, 504 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

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

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. 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.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+

AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@ gmail.com for password. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/. Online, San Luis Obispo. SUSTAINABILITY WORKSHOP Join Smart Share Housing for a free workshop on off-grid power and appliances. June 7 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. 805-215-5474. smartsharehousingsolutions.org/. SLO Guild Hall, 2880 Broad St., 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. Second Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

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

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.

CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS

MEETING

Co-Dependents Anonymous

(CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom). For information, call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654.

SOCRATES: DISCUSSION GROUP Group members present interesting and thought provoking topics of all sorts. Topics are selected in advance and moderated by volunteers. Vaccinations are necessary.

Enter through wooden gate to garden area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. 805-528-7111.

Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

WATERFRONT MARKET MORRO BAY

Features local crafters in the parking lot of Giovannis Fish Market. June 3 10 a.m.5 p.m. and June 4 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 805402-9437. slovendorsassociation.com.

Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE

ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays 805-922-1468. costadeorowines.com.

Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE

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

PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/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, 805332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

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

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. 805-2457142. jazzandolivefestival.org/. Downtown Los Olivos, Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

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, hand-spun 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.

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.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET

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

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA NIGHT Live multi-media trivia every Wednesday. Free to play. Win prizes. Teams up to six players. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. headgamestrivia.com. Antigua Brewing, 1009 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-242-1167.

SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT PUB TRIVIA Bring your thinking cap as questions vary from pop culture, geography, to sports. There is a little for everyone. Prizes for the winning teams. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. 805-439-2529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

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.

LINE DANCING FUN For adults ages 50 and older. Learn basic patterns and steps to some of your favorite music. This beginner-friendly class is for anyone that enjoys dancing. Wednesdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925-0951.

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

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.

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.

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 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.

GAS STATION SUSHI AND FRIENDS

LIVE June 9 7 p.m. my805tix.com.

Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

FRIDAY NIGHT HAPPY HOURS: LIVE

MUSIC Enjoy Friday Night Happy Hour at Avila Bay Athletic Club. 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 SINGING CONTEST If you want to throw your vocals out there against other singers, this contest is for you. June 10, 4-7 p.m. $25 entry fee (winner gets $250 plus trophy). 805-2668628. Oceano Elks Lodge, 410 Air Park Drive, Oceano.

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

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. 805773-7063. pismobeach.org/recreation.

Dinosaur Caves Park, 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach.

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

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.

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 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. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/choirs/.

Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., 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

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PUBLICATION DATE: June 15

Winners in our 28th annual photo contest will be published

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The Central Coast’s guide to everything outside

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PUBLICATION DATE: July 6

55 FICTION ENTER STORIES BY: June 19 · PUBLISHED: July 27

EDUCATION TODAY BOOK ADS BY: August 4 · PUBLISHED: August 10 BEST OF NO. SB COUNTY VOTE: June 15–July

Hot Stuff

Cal Poly Clarinet Ensemble. June 10 , 7:30 p.m. Free. 805-7562406. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, 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 “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. 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 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.

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.

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

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. Thursdays-Saturdays, 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.

MATT AXTON LIVE Songwriters at Play presents Matt Axton and his band Badmoon. June 8 , 6 p.m. $20. my805tix.com. SLO Wine and Beer Company, 3536 S. Higuera St., suite 250, San Luis Obispo, 805-544-9463.

OPEN MIC NIGHT IN THE TASTING ROOM Kelsey Rae hosts this open mic event for music and comedy in the tasting room. Second Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. Free show. 805-7216878. SLO Cider, 3419 Roberto Ct., Suite C, 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, 805-439-0774, 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. 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 COAST SLO COUNTY

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

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.

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 Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 805-900-5444. Lunada Garden Bistro, 78 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos.

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. m

ARTS BRIEFS

Central Coast Film Society recognizes winners of student showcase

Students from Ernest Righetti High School, San Luis Obispo High School, Morro Bay High School, and Central Coast New Tech High School were among the winners of a recent film competition.

The Central Coast Film Society announced the award winners of the 2023 Student Film and Media Arts Competition during its Student Showcase event, held at the end of May at Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria.

Submissions from finalists in the competition were reviewed by a panel of five judges: local film teacher and filmmaker Chris Hite, film festival programmer and filmmaker Cindy Kitagawa, studio owner and filmmaker Kevin Judge, author Brian Schwartz, and sound designer and filmmaker Carlos Plummer.

Participants competed in five different categories. Central Coast New Tech High School students Laslo S. Estes and Eli Heck won in the Technical category for their film, Cha Cha Ride, while Morro Bay High School student Rae Elizabeth Ruane took home the Screenwriting award for McSpade’s Circus of Splendor

Another Morro Bay High School student, Luke Konjoyan, won the Photography category for the film Vroom Vroom For their submission, titled Sandbox: Series , San Luis Obispo High School students Gavin Patrick Wren, Jenson Wright, and Jackson Sitt received the Central Coast Spirit Award.

Two film submissions tied for top honors in the Filmmaking category: Just Another Cheesy Teen Rom Com from Ernest Righetti High School students Isabella Sherfield and Colin Sherfield, and The Key to Fear from San Luis Obispo High School student Leo Gerd Eulate.

Ernest Righetti High School film teacher Jacob R. Gustafson acknowledged his students’ recent win in a statement from the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District.

“I’m very proud of my students,” Gustafson said. “They have been doing fantastic work this year, and I’m very happy to see them get recognition outside my classroom by a professional organization.”

PCPA holds Summer Youth Camps

Family fun

BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

For Laura Albers, a family photo is a powerful thing.

Sometimes it’s a window into a particular moment, other times it tells the story of a particular day—but most of all, according to Albers, family photos show the depths of the individual members who are in the photo, displaying all that makes them relatable and unique.

“This photo project will showcase the beauty, the joy, the connections, and the love that is present for all the individuals in each family,” Albers said. “It will help demonstrate that despite some families looking different than what we traditionally are expecting, they belong here and they deserve to thrive here.”

The photo project, officially titled We Are Family, is the passion project of the Central Coast Pride director and is set to be displayed at The Bunker art studio in San Luis Obispo during the entire month of June.

Albers worked alongside photographers Rebida Campbell and Summer Truschke to take and compile photos of multiple families with LGBTQ-plus members from across the Central Coast.

“We have families represented from every part of the Central Coast,” Albers said. “Whether that’s from North County, SLO proper, out on the coast, Santa Maria, and even north Santa Barbara.”

to the world just like any other family would,” she said. “In a time when they have so much going against them, I think it’s important to remind people these are real human beings being potentially affected by this legislation.”

The family of Cheri Love, for example, felt like We Are Family allowed her family to highlight how their love and acceptance were at the core of their family values and a driving force behind her trans daughter’s acceptance of herself.

“We are ordinary and extraordinary—love and acceptance is a core value of our family,” Love said. “I think that in a world that is trying so hard to erase trans kids, it is important to showcase something like that.”

Love told the Sun that she hopes that the exhibit will show people unfamiliar with the experience how important it is to support LGBTQ-plus youth.

“Anyone that sees the transformation of my daughter’s confidence and how she views herself will see that real positive impact,” she said. “It’s a type of activism we have always wanted to be part of.”

Albers said that she worked with families to ensure they felt comfortable with their images being shown so openly. In that process, she was encouraged by their conviction to be themselves unapologetically.

“Every person in the family had to OK the process,” she said. “When I met with the

See for yourself

families in the preliminary process, I was touched by how much they wanted to share what made their families special.”

Matt and Michael Pennon’s family, for example, has always embraced the unique makeup of the individuals in the family.

“We have always been a family that when you look at us, you can tell we are different,” Matt Pennon said. “I’m white, my husband’s Black, we have Latinx and Native American kids, but we aren’t any different really beyond that.”

He hopes that We Are Family will show people that LGBTQ-plus families are doing the same things as traditional straight families, often at the same places.

“We are here existing, we have kids, we have jobs, we might even go to the same church as you, and we go to the same music festivals as you,” Pennon said with a laugh. “We all have the same dreams and desires, so it’s important to say we are here!”

In the case of Lati Murti, the photographs in the exhibition are a matter of shining a light on the LGBTQ-plus members of the families and their literal location.

“From a representation standpoint, it is important,” Murti said. “Not just as a multiracial and LGBTQ-plus family, but also because we are in North Santa Barbara County.”

Murti hopes that the gallery will highlight that LGBTQ-plus families exist all over the Central Coast no matter how far or less talked about the region might be.

“We wanted to participate even though we won’t necessarily be around to see it, Murti said. “It’s here to show that we are here too in North Santa Barbara!”

Ultimately, letting the people of the Central Coast know these families exist is Albers’ goal.

She told the Sun that she encourages people of all backgrounds to visit the gallery, and if possible to bring along a photo of their own family to add to the display and remind themselves that all families—whethere LGBTQplus or not—are important and deserve to be celebrated.

“These families bake together, walk the dog at the park together, and go shopping at Boo Boo Records together!” Albers said with a laugh. “These are families that do things like every other family, and they matter.” m New Times Staff Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas, from the Sun’s sister paper, is appreciating the things that make his family unique yet oddly relatable. Reach him at arosas@newtimesslo.com.

The Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA) will offer three separate sessions of week-long youth camps in Santa Maria during the summer. The first week of programming, for ages 8 through 12, will be held between Monday, June 19, and Saturday, June 24.

The second iteration, for ages 13 to 18, will start on Monday, June 26, and run through Saturday, July 1. The final week of camp offerings, for ages 8 through 12, will be held between Monday, July 24, and Saturday, July 29. Visit pcpa.org for registration details and more info. m

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

Each family represented in the gallery has two different styles of photos displayed. Campbell’s photos are traditional black and white portraits, and Truschke’s are more colorful candid action shots, which Albers explained are meant to showcase the family doing an activity or in a place that makes them the most comfortable.

“Gosh! We got a lot of great photos of these families,” she said. “Each of these shots is something that spoke to us.”

Albers told the Sun that she came up with the premise for We Are Family after seeing all of the anti-LGBTQ-plus legislation that has been passed across the U.S. in 2023.

“We really want to demonstrate that all of these families not only matter but offer so much

Experience the exhibit We Are Family at The Bunker (810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo) until the end of June. For more information on other Central Coast Pride events, visit slopride.com or follow them on Instagram @centralcoastpride.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BUNKER SLO

AWSOME EXHIBIT: The recently renovated Bunker art space in San Luis Obispo serves as the host for We Are Family for the entirety of June.

JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE: Central Coast Pride Director and curator of We Are Family Laura Albers wants the photography exhibit to showcase the depth of the humans in each family photo— highlighting what makes them unique yet relatable.

COURTESY PHOTOS BY REBIDA CAMPBELL AND SUMMER TRUSCHKE

COURTESY PHOTO BY LUIS ESCOBAR, REFLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

Showtime! Send gallery, stage, and cultural festivities to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

We Are Family photos celebrate LGBTQ-plus families across the Central Coast

Eye-popping and sweet

Rob Marshall (Chicago, Memoirs of a Geisha, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides) directs this live-action version of the beloved 1989 animated The Little Mermaid film. Loosely based on the 1837 fairy tale by Hans Christian Anderson, the new film features a screenplay by David Magee (Finding Neverland, Life of Pi, Mary Poppins Returns). After saving Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King) from a shipwreck, Ariel (Halle Bailey), a young mermaid, makes a deal with Ursula (Melissa McCarthy), a sea witch, to trade her voice for legs so she can explore the human world above water and reunite with Eric. (135 min.)

Glen: I’m one of the rare few who never saw the 1989 animated Little Mermaid. I think someone may have read me the original fairy tale as a child, I know the basic mermaid myth, and I did see Splash (1984). This new version is billing itself as “live action,” and there are certainly some actors and not just their voices on-screen, but there’s so much CGI on the actors as well as voiced characters, such as Sebastian the crab (Daveed Diggs doing a Jar Jar Binks impression), Flounder the fish (Jacob Tremblay sounding trembly), and Scuttle the seagull (Awkwafina, a true highlight of the film). What you’re seeing is a deftly assembled mix of live action and very sophisticated computer-generated images. The filmmakers have created a wonderous world, the songs are catchy, the story’s sweet with

Television Reviews

HIGH DESERT

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Apple TV Plus

some good action, and Halle Bailey is terrific in the title role. This is a kid film, but I enjoyed it thoroughly.

THE LITTLE MERMAID

What’s it rated? PG

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price

Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards RPX Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande

Anna: As a redheaded, flowing-locked young girl, I was absolutely obsessed with the 1989 Disney animated flick, and not much has changed in the 35ish years since. Summers were spent in the pool long before someone had the brilliant idea to sell wearable mermaid fins, legs wrapped around each other, pushing ourselves up the side of the pool and attempting, in the clumsy manner that kids do, to achieve that iconic hair flip Ariel has after saving Prince Eric. Not going to lie, my eyes welled up a couple of times in the live-action version: The nostalgia was palpable for me. As I’ve wandered into adulthood, I will say that Ariel becomes a little more ridiculous with each passing year—I think in the original story the mermaid was just 14, not nearly old enough to be chasing after princes or giving away her most precious possession to her weird aunt. Halle Bailey was the perfect choice for this role; her voice truly is a treasure, and this young, gorgeous woman handled the iconic role beautifully. I’ll be watching this for a second time on one of those days where I want to feel like a kid again.

Glen: The story certainly has some lessons to impart: Use your voice, don’t trade it away; don’t be afraid to dream big; friends are important, so count on each other; don’t smother your kids (this one’s for you, King Triton (Javier Bardem));

hunger for power often has the reverse effect (Ursula, you big meany!); and peace and common ground can be found despite huge differences, such as legs and tails. I doubt I’ll be seeking out the 1989 animated version or even watching this one again, but I’m glad I saw it. It’s a visually arresting film.

Anna: One big win for Disney here is bringing diversity to this cast. While the animated film sits firmly in the 75 or so years that we only had princesses who would definitely check “white”

SILO

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Apple TV Plus

on the census, this live-action role works hard to present kids with a much broader look at who’s included in this story. Ariel’s sisters are from the seven seas and all represent an ethnically different part of the world. From the “oohs” and “aahs” that were coming from the kids in the audience, I’d say this is a hit. m

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

Luckily for us, it seems everything Patricia Arquette touches is gold these days, and High Desert is no exception. Reminiscent a bit of Poker Face, Peggy is someone with mysteries to solve. She’s flawed, and her brother and sister are sick of picking up her messes, especially after their mother’s death and Peggy’s various legal troubles.

Peggy is stuck in a state of perpetual adolescence and living with her head in the clouds. She relies on methadone to quash her pain and addictive nature, and she can’t seem to get out of the rut of what has become of her life. She goes to “work”—an unpaid position—for P.I. Bruce Harvey (Brad Garrett) to forge a new career and figure out a mystery surrounding her coworker’s shifty ex-boyfriend, Guru Bob (Rupert Friend).

Released weekly, this series doesn’t get stuck in schtick. Arquette brings all of her brilliance to the role and somehow makes the audience care about Peggy, even though she’s a hot mess. Start watching now so you can finish out season

LOOKALIKE: Bernadette Peters (left) stars in the twin roles of Rosalyn, mother to drug addict turned private detective and Old West reenactor Peggy (Patricia Arquette, right), and Rosalyn’s doppelgänger, Ginger, who Peggy befriends, in the Apple TV Plus series High Desert

1 as the show wraps up! (eight approximately 30-min. episodes)

—Anna

Creator Graham Yost (Band of Brothers, Justified ) runs this show based on novelist Hugh Howey’s Wool series about a dystopian future where 10,000 people exist in an underground bunker called the Silo. They’ve been told the outside world is poisonous and uninhabitable, but is it? They live under an oppressive and opaque regime with draconian rules, and for some residents, something doesn’t seem right.

As it gets rolling, the series focuses on Juliette Nichols (Rebecca Ferguson), a highly capable engineer who manages to keep the Silo’s aging turbine spinning, producing power and breathable air. The Silo has one peculiar and unbending rule: If a resident says out loud they want to go outside, they’re forced out in a spacesuit, asked to clean the camera that feeds images of the barren outside world to a monitor inside, and then as they walk away, they apparently die after a few steps.

Juliette is determined to unravel the mystery. Who built the Silo and why? What’s really going on outside? Like the 2013 film and 2020-23 TV series Snowpiercer Silo has a claustrophobic setting,

SECRETS: New sheriff Juliette Nichols (Rebecca Ferguson) plays cat and mouse with Robert Sims (Common), head of security, in the Apple TV Plus sci-fi series Silo

class struggles, and a group of underdogs trying to make things right. We’re halfway through season 1, and season 2 is in development. It’s a gripping and entertaining series. (10 45- to 62-min. episodes) m

YEARNING: Ariel (Halle Bailey) desperately wants to explore the human world above the water, in the new live-action version of The Little Mermaid, screening in local theaters.

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

An anthropomorphized french fry container complete with cartoonish white gloves and big blue sneakers is the memorable mascot of a new eatery in Arroyo Grande.

“We have not named him yet,” said Joe Lassiter, the owner and founder of French Fries. This aptly named dining spot specializes in burgers, corn dogs, chicken strips, and, most importantly, its own namesake.

“I’m a big guy on fries. I mean, it’s half the food,” said Lassiter, who opened the casual eatery on East Grand Avenue in February.

When customers approach the restaurant’s front counter, they’ll find a list of 10 different french fry styles

pros

to choose from: shoestring, crinkle, wedge, sidewinder, waffle, curly, seashore, steak, sweet potato, and tater tots.

There are also dozens of topping options to pick from—including chili, pulled pork, carne asada, cheese curds, poutine gravy, bacon, guacamole, nacho cheese, and much more.

Patrons can customize their own combinations of fries and toppings or order from a handful of preset signature french fry assortments. Similarly, there’s a preset burger to order, or customers can opt to build their own.

From the beginning, Lassiter’s top priority in bringing French Fries to fruition was to serve a need that he found lacking in his own community, he said.

Better call salt

“I wanted the pricing to be fair. I don’t want to go out to lunch and get a burger and fries and have it cost 22 bucks. It happens multiple times at multiple places. It kills me,” Lassiter said. “I should be able to get a burger, fries, and a soda for like 10, 11 bucks.”

Another focus Lassiter aimed to emphasize at French Fries was a made-to-order approach.

“Everything is cooked to order. It’s not just sitting back there on a warmer,” said Lassiter, who added that he can’t stand going to burger places where the fries are lukewarm or soggy by the time his order gets to him.

“I opened this place out of spite because I want a fair-priced hamburger and crispy goddamn french fries when I order them,” said Lassiter.

BIGGER AND BETTER: Plans are underway to expand French Fries to include a family entertainment center in the vacant space next door, complete with an arcade and additional seating.

Lassiter prefers quality over speed when it comes to getting orders out, but French Fries is still relatively fast compared to similar kinds of eateries.

“Even now when we’re jam-packed, I think the longest ticket’s nine to 12

minutes,” said Lassiter who added that lines were out the door during the restaurant’s opening weekend, which resulted in 55-minute waits for some guests.

continued page 26

SEAT YOURSELF: French Fries in Arroyo Grande is a casual eatery that serves burgers, corn dogs, chicken strips, desserts, and, of course, lots of french fries.

PEEL DEAL: The asada fries at French Fries in Arroyo Grande is one of six preset signature fry combinations. Patrons of the new eatery can also build their own fry assortments from scratch with dozens of topping options to choose from. EATS

New Times media Group

• Interacting with local businesses in SLO and SB Counties?

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• Being out and about and not stuck behind a desk all day?

• Making a positive difference in a local economy?

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• Working for the biggest media group on the Central Coast?

• Paychecks reflective of your hard work?

• Fresh bagels every Monday morning?

• Working with helpful people in a fun and positive environment?

• Receiving crucial, entry-level sales training and experience?

Due to the eatery’s success so far over the past few months, Lassiter has plans to expand the space by taking over a vacant building next door.

“We’re knocking down this wall here,” the restaurateur said, while pointing to the wall at the right of the restaurant, where a small mural of the french fry mascot—who Lassiter has unofficially nicknamed Fry Guy— currently rests.

Once that wall comes down and some interior renovations are complete, the neighboring space will be home to French Fries’ upcoming family amusement center with arcade games and more seating for on-site dining.

“I’m trying to cater to the younger crowd as far as the gaming goes,” said Lassiter, who revealed that the arcade will include air hockey, racing games, and more. “We want to incorporate more of a family atmosphere here, and I’ve always wanted to own some kind of family entertainment center.”

Lassiter, who also owns California Diesel and RV in Oceano, said that between the 10 types of french fry styles currently offered at

French Fries, it’s hard to pick a favorite. “But gun to my head, I’d probably go steak or seashore,” said the local business owner, who personally likes to pair his fries with a singlepatty burger. m

Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood is a big fan of shoestring fries and tater tots. Send comments to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

LIMITLESS: The variety of french fry styles and topping options gives customers virtually “a million different combinations” to consider, French Fries owner Joe Lassiter said.

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