Sun, July 27, 2023

Short,

but not necessarily sweet, the winning tales for this year’s annual mini-story contest are in [8]

Writers can do a lot with 55 words. Well, some writers can do a lot with 55 words—and some struggle. But kudos to everyone who entered this year’s annual short story contest. We love reading all your submissions. Unfortunately, only a small number of tales make the cut. And after taking a year’s worth of entries, we narrowed it down to what’s right here in this issue. Death, love, laughter, and a litany of other human conditions—and some not human—are ready for you to explore [8]

This week, you can also read about Santa Barbara County’s mobile resource center for farmworkers [4]; Orcutt Community Theater’s new murder mystery [24]; and sushi, oysters, and wine [28].

Camillia Lanham editor

A Central Coast Native, Dr. Ryan Leachman DO, MBA, Graduated from Arroyo Grande High School in 2004. Dr. Leachman attended California Polytechnic State University where he earned dual degrees in Biology and Psychology and graduated Cum Lade. Dr. Leachman continued his education at Cal Poly where he earned a Masters in Business Administration. Dr. Leachman further continued his education at Midwestern University school of Medicine where he earned his medical degree. Dr. Leachman attended residency at OSU Pediatrics. He is board certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Pediatrics.

City

Summer

Arroyo Grande Summer

Concert Series

D.O.

• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) voted to move the Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency (SCERT) Act out of committee and into the Senate for consideration. The committee action follows recent public reports detailing potentially unethical behavior by members of the Supreme Court, highlighting the lack of transparency and enforceable ethics standards for the court, according to a July 20 statement from Padilla’s office. “It is long past time we restore public faith in the Supreme Court by implementing an enforceable standard of ethics—because it’s clear that they’re not willing to police themselves,” Padilla said in the statement. “As we know, and the court itself has said even the appearance of impropriety threatens our democracy. Regaining the trust of the American people begins with peeling back the curtain and increasing ethical standards and transparency at the court. And the legislation that we voted out of committee today is a major step forward in that effort.” Padilla is a cosponsor of the SCERT Act, which would create a process for investigating misconduct on the Supreme Court; strengthen recusal standards for judges and disclosure rules for special interests trying to influence the courts; improve disclosure of travel and hospitality for judges; and mandate the creation of a binding code of ethics.

• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) joined a bipartisan majority of the U.S. House of Representatives in voting to advance the reauthorization of Federal Aviation Administration programs with key improvements for aviation safety and consumer protections for America’s air travelers, according to a July 20 statement from Carbajal’s office. The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act would prevent runway incursions by expanding ground surveillance and detection equipment; direct the FAA to hire more air traffic controllers; direct the Department of Transportation to require airlines to develop policies addressing reimbursement for hotels and meal costs when flights are canceled or significantly delayed; require airlines to establish policies to allow passengers to sit next to their young child if seats are available; and require airlines to carry overdose reversal medications like EpiPens and defibrillators. “While this bill doesn’t have everything I’d hoped for, and includes provisions I disagree with like a change to pilot retirement age, this is a good bill— one that includes language that I worked to include to support Central Coast airports, those who live nearby them, and the thousands of passengers who use our airports to visit our region or travel the world,” Carbajal said in the statement.

• Following the Temecula Valley Unified School District ’s failure to adopt an updated social studies curriculum, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the state is entering into a contract to secure textbooks to ensure students in the district begin the school year with access to up-to-date books and materials that comply with state law, according to a July 19 statement from Newsom’s office. Elementary students in Temecula are slated to begin the school year on Aug. 14, 2023, without proper instructional materials—in violation of state law—because of the school board’s 3-2 majority’s repeated decision to reject an updated curriculum. “The three political activists on the school board have yet again proven they are more interested in breaking the law than doing their jobs of educating students—so the state will do their job for them,” Newsom said in the statement. “California will ensure students in Temecula begin the school year with access to materials reviewed by parents and recommended by teachers across the district. After we deliver the textbooks into the hands of students and their parents, the state will deliver the bill—along with a $1.5 million fine—to the school board for its decision to willfully violate the law, subvert the will of parents, and force children to use an out-of-print textbook from 17 years ago.” m

County kicks off new mobile farmworker resource center

Employment, education, financial, emergency, and health and human services assistance are the main goals for Santa Barbara County’s new mobile farmworker resource center

“We want to do case [management] and have that discussion to figure out the true needs [they] have. Is it a day care situation, lack of food, or lack of training?” program coordinator Cesar Guerrero told the Sun. “We want to know the true need to provide true assistance.”

The mobile resource center’s goal is to act as a one-stop shop for farmworkers to come and get help navigating public agencies and receive information on wage and hour laws, health and safety laws, and other legal rights. Farmworkers will work with either Guerrero or the center’s two farmworker specialists to get connected to the right community organization based on their needs, and Guerrero’s team will conduct follow-ups.

“We don’t want to just drop our clients at the door; we want to make sure we follow through and they get the services they need so they are able to be successful,” Guerrero said.

More than 250 people—including 30 community based organizations, 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann, 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson, and farmworkers— attended the mobile resource center’s kickoff event and resource fair on July 23.

The kickoff event followed December’s Board of Supervisors approval to accept an $833,000 state grant to create the center and commit $208,000 as a local funding match for a total of about $1.04 million over a 14-month period from February 2023 to May 2024.

Focusing on employment, educational, and financial needs as well as emergency support and health and human services was part of the state’s requirements in order for the county to receive the grant, but Guerrero said he wants to also connect with local growers and employers to see how the resource center “can be of service to them so their staff can be happy as well.”

“For this coming month we do have some community outreach events focusing on the resource fair side to gain attention, but in the meantime I plan on working with local growers to build that relationship, to understand their industry, and how we can provide a service for them and their employees,” he said. “It definitely goes with our growers and that’s an area we want to work on. They are just as important as our farmworkers.”

While the majority of the supervisors believed this grant would be beneficial to starting a program for farmworkers in the county, 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino had concerns about the program’s sustainability, since the grant only lasts one year.

“I totally support the idea that we need a better

line of communication between our farmworkers and the decision-makers in this county,” Lavagnino told the Sun. “Providing them a place where they can have a mobile resource center makes a lot of sense to me, and it makes so much sense that I think we should have done it at a level that I think is more sustainable.”

He said that he worries about how the county is going to replace the $833,000 once the year ends and wants to discuss future funding opportunities as well as the program’s success during next year’s budget meetings.

“I’m hoping we can get into the nuts and bolts of how this is going to work, that we find what’s effective because you don’t really know until you start doing it,” Lavagnino said. “I’m just hoping over this next year that we figure out an effective way to do this that’s not going to cost $1 million every year because honestly that’s not sustainable.”

Guerrero said that funding is an ongoing conversation he is having with the program’s director to make sure they address those concerns.

“One thing I do know is there is a need in the community … and we need to make sure we go out there and get those referrals to those who need it the most,” he said.

The mobile resource center plans to travel throughout the county on Tuesdays through Sundays in the afternoon or early evening to meet farmworkers where they are at and allow them to use the center after work, Guerrero said.

Visit countyofsb.org/fwrc to see the mobile resource center’s schedule and for more information.

—Taylor O’Connor

Buellton Planning Commission compliments revisions on multi-year ARCO project

A gas station project with an Avenue of Flags address has continuously raised red flags with the Buellton Planning Commission, which halted the proposal from moving forward in 2018, 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Periodically revised and resubmitted for review, the plan to build a new ARCO station in Buellton finally gained positive traction from planning commissioners during their July 20 meeting.

Planning Commission Chair Patty Hammel, who criticized AGC Design Concept—the design firm behind the ARCO proposal—for consistently ignoring the art deco style standards required by the Avenue of Flags Specific Plan during the project’s last hearing in September 2022, praised the company’s latest resubmission as “a job well done.”

“OK, I am going to issue a ‘wow.’ This is so much better than the last time,” Hammel said at the Planning Commission’s July 20 meeting. “I’m not going to give you the ‘awesome’ yet, but maybe next time you’ll get the ‘awesome’ out.”

During a preliminary review of the project’s

newly revised concept design, Buellton Planning Director Andrea Keefer outlined ways in which AGC Design Concept addressed some, but not all, of the previous issues raised by the commission.

“There have been substantial revisions to the architecture, and staff, in our review, has felt that, in general, they [AGC Design Concept] have addressed many of the previous comments related to architecture,” Keefer said.

While new ornamentation and architectural detailing on the gas canopies and the proposed convenience store and fast food restaurant tied to the gas station meet the art deco design requirements, the project’s overall earth tone color palette remains unchanged, despite the Planning Commission’s previous directive to incorporate colors associated with art deco architecture.

Hammel suggested that AGC Design Concept consider incorporating blue and orange, since the two colors are both art deco-friendly and prevalent in the ARCO corporate logo.

“Maybe we could throw some of that orange and blue in somewhere … just for a teeny bit more ‘wow’ and a little bit more art deco style,” Hammel said.

As a newcomer to the project, Planning Commissioner Laura Romano DeFazio, appointed in December 2022, said the ARCO proposal was “very interesting to go through because I was unaware how long this had been in process.”

“I don’t have a problem so much with the color scheme. … I’m more concerned with the issue of the lighting,” said DeFazio, who was worried about the project’s LED lighting and its potential impact on the residential areas near the property.

Hammel agreed.

“We do want night-friendly skies, and we want night-friendly skies especially for that residential behind [the project site] because we want to have a good neighbor policy with everyone,” Hammel said.

According to the staff report, further specifications on lighting, including the project’s photometric lighting plan, will need to be provided by AGC Design Concept in the future and must “show consistency with dark sky-friendly requirements of LED and 3000 Kelvin or less.”

Comments made by the Planning Commission and city staff during the July 20 preliminary review will be summarized into an “incomplete letter” for the AGC Design Concept to consider before the project moves forward with a public hearing.

“We look forward to the next round,” Hammel said.

—Caleb Wiseblood

Federal court rules that Pine Mountain tree removal project can move ahead

A federal judge ruled in favor of a U.S. Forest Service (USFS) chaparral removal project on Pine Mountain following a lawsuit brought forth by several environmental organizations and government agencies with concerns about environmental law violations.

“The court concludes that the USFS relied on best available science ... and concludes that plaintiffs have failed to demonstrate that the USFS’s reliance on and interpretation of the best available science is arbitrary or capricious,” the ruling stated.

Known as the Reyes Peak Forest Health Project, the project would remove chaparral and trees across 755 acres that extend along Pine Mountain between state Highway 33 and Reyes Peak in Ventura County, bordering Cuyama in Santa Barbara County.

The Los Padres ForestWatch, Environmental Defense Center, Center for Biological Diversity, and Patagonia along with Ventura County and the city of Ojai sued the Forest Service, citing violations of the Endangered Species Act, the

PHOTO COURTESY ➤ Spotlight [10] NEWS continued page 6 4 • Sun • July 27 - August 3, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

National Environmental Policy Act, and the Roadless Area Conservation Rule, according to court documents. Opponents to the project claimed that the project would harm the forest, wildlife, and Native American cultural sites.

“We are in a wildfire crisis and must take immediate action to protect our forests in Southern California,” Los Padres National Forest Supervisor Chris Stubbs said in a statement. “We are trying to save the remaining trees on Reyes Peak from the devastating effects of a standreplacing wildfire.”

The project is in a federally designated insect and disease treatment area, meaning that the forest has been facing declining health conditions and threatens the livelihood of trees in the area, said Andrew Madsen, a spokesperson for Los Padres National Forest.

“There’s a lot of new trees starting up, young saplings if you will, and they are in the shadows of these giants,” Madsen said. “We’re proposing to get rid of these small trees because they don’t stand a chance. We’re trying to create a park-like atmosphere with spacing and clearing out the underbrush in the area.”

Clearing out the small trees and chaparral, Madsen said, helps the older trees continue to survive in the face of wildfires because they are no longer competing for resources. According to a Forest Service press release, the project also reduces hazardous surface, ladder, and crown fuels and includes prescribed fire, piling, and burning. Trees between 24-inch and 64-inch diameters would be left alone “unless they pose a safety risk.”

“These areas haven’t seen fires for a long time because firefighters have been successful at keeping the fires small, but now we have all this decadent

buildup out there. It’s an unhealthy piece of landscape right now,” Madsen said.

Jeff Kuyper, the Los Padres ForestWatch executive director, told the Sun that there’s no infestation or disease in Pine Mountain that’s unusual and there will always be some background of beetles and parasites.

“There wasn’t anything completely out of the ordinary with Pine Mountain’s ecosystem. It’s a perfectly healthy forest. What the Forest Service is proposing would make the forest less healthy and more prone to infestation, disease, and wildfire,” Kuyper said. “When you remove trees—especially larger trees—from an ecosystem, it opens up the forest floor, lets in more sunlight, dries it more quickly, and under these conditions you are going to get trees that are more stressed and susceptible to wildfire.”

Kuyper said that ForestWatch has been following this project since the Forest Service first announced it to the public in 2020. It garnered a lot of public attention, and the project received more than 16,000 public comments.

“It’s a top priority for our organization to make sure that the forest and chaparral on Pine Mountain are protected, so we were disappointed in the court’s ruling,” he said.

ForestWatch and others involved in the lawsuit have 60 days to file an appeal to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. As of July 25, ForestWatch is still evaluating next steps.

Madsen with the U.S. Forest Service added that the project cannot begin until the 60 days is complete, but the agency is still facing significant storm damage—which could set the Pine Mountain project back while the Forest Service tries to get more of the forest open to the public. m

—Taylor O’Connor

Begrime Exemious (Canada), Poxx, Sepsis + more TBA

THURSDAY, JULY 27

Narducci’s Cafe, Bakersfield

KD Train / Knee Deep

FRIDAY, JULY 28 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Deadstock 2023 (11 bands from all over California)

FRI & SAT, JULY 28 & 29 Dark Nectar Coffee, Atascadero

Orcutt Community Theater: And Then There Were None

FRI, SAT, SUN THRU JULY 30

The Historic Minerva Club, Santa Maria

By the Sea Productions: Barefoot in the Park

FRI, SAT, SUN THRU AUG 6 Shasta Avenue, Morro Bay

Saunter Yoga & Wellness: Yoga & Wine Blending Class SATURDAY, JULY 29 Timshel Vineyards, Paso Robles

SLOFunny Comedy Show

SATURDAY, JULY 29

The Savory Palette, Morro Bay

Records on Tap Presents

Five Punk Bands SATURDAY, JULY 29 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Women Making Waves: Free to Fly: Zip & Sip Adventure

SUNDAY, JULY 30 Margarita Adventures, Santa Margarita

The Jump Jax and The Talia Ortega Quartet

SUNDAY, JULY 30 Pismo Beach Veterans’ Hall

Mo Betta Summer Jazz Series

SUNDAY, JULY 30

Antigua Brewing Company, San Luis Obispo

SLOFunny Comedy Gym

SUNDAY, JULY 30 Central Coast Pizza, Los Osos

Superheroes in SLO Vacation Bible Camp

MON, JULY 31–FRI, AUG. 4 St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO

Shamanic Morning Rituals for Vitality

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

Fashions for a Purpose Fundraiser

THURSDAY, AUGUST 3 Grover Station Grill, Nipomo

All-You-Can-Eat Southern Seafood Boil

FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 CaliPaso Winery & Villa, Paso Robles

Zongo Yachting Cup - 2023

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 Morro Bay Yacht Club, Morro Bay

El Tamborazo del 7 of Jalisco

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Comedy Jamboree Grover Beach

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9

Rib Line by the Beach, Grover Beach

SLOFunny Comedy Jamboree Los Osos

THURSDAY, AUGUST 10

Central Coast Pizza, Los Osos

A promise is a promise

She was 50; he was 30. Madly in love, they wed. Just one vow: that he’d never leave her for a younger woman.

He was 50 when he came home, holding hands with 30-year-old handsome Harry. Though heartbroken, she graciously wished them well, joking weakly, “You certainly kept your promise, darling.”

Chris Risk Orcutt

The price of liberty is often repentance

The police search resembled a band of roving toddlers. Wrong house, wrong guy, but he ended up in prison anyway. Noose-bound, his heart became wolfish. The lawyer worked at freedom while he planned escape.

Just as the sun burst across his face, the judge granted the pardon. Probably shouldn’t have killed that guard.

Steven Stone Santa Maria

A very special wish

“Make a wish,” my mother says. I blow the candles hoping my wish comes true, and it does. A little puppy barks around my kitchen. “Aww, you wished for a puppy,” she speaks again. “Close,” I say. When the puppy picks up a pencil and starts doing my homework, I know my wish was granted.

Khadija El-Refaie Pewaukee, Wisconsin

Heaven

Cindy and her older brother, 7-year-old Tommy, were learning about heaven in Sunday School. The teacher said that, in addition to good people, all loved animals go to heaven. Cindy started crying. “I don’t want to go to heaven,” she said. “Why not?” her teacher asked. Cindy pointed at Tommy. “Tommy loves dinosaurs!”

Renne Gardner San Luis Obispo

The short—not the long—of it

Each year, we take story submissions from across the country for our 55 Fiction contest. People send us miniature novels, short but not necessarily sweet. The briefest stories in the world weave tales about murder, loss, love, family, pets, pouting, and more. In 55 words or less, we get the characters, the tension, and the gist. This year, some of our authors are first-timers, some are seasoned 55 Fiction vets, some are locals, and some are from far-flung places. We received hundreds of submissions over the last year, and our judges at the Sun narrowed the winners down to the following stories.

Compensating

I had a new ’66 Ford convertible, a full tank, 50 bucks, and a blonde beside me who said the miniature purple heart on my lapel was adorable … every time she thought about the right arm I didn’t have to put around her shoulder. But she liked handling my shift lever. You learn to compensate.

Peter Sheats Lompoc

Senior voyeur

Old people lament that they are invisible. Like it’s a bad thing. But not me. I love being invisible, eavesdropping on private conversations, spying on the neighbors, skulking around closed-door meetings. A ghost, a vapor, a very curious spirit. Taking in the youthful lives of others. This and Medicare. The perks of old age.

Jane Brechler Morro Bay

TSA or AST (American School Trouble)

I urgently snatched my bags to give myself time for when I arrived. The line to get my bag checked snakes around the entrance. Five minutes remaining. The bags are checked and I pass through the metal detector. A man then pats me down. One minute left to make it to class on time.

Francesca Smith Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

Unexpected call volume

Due to the same unexpected call volume we receive every single day, we are unable to take your call at this time. We’d like you to believe your call is very important to us. Please stay on the line until you realize it’s not. Your call will be ignored in the order it was received.

Steve Recchia Reno, Nevada

Ti-girl

It was the principal’s idea. He was the one who sacrificed me to the tiger. Inside the body, it was scorching hot, and I could feel my face in flames. But it was worth it. The crowd roared as I clapped my paws together. It’s game day, and I wouldn’t rather be anywhere else.

Ella Piscatello Northport, New York

Break-in

The door creaked and groaned as it reluctantly swung open, as if it knew the horrors that awaited inside. The walls whispered eerie secrets to each other, their dusty surfaces seemingly alive. The floorboards yelled with each step, as if begging the intruder to leave before it was too late.

Noah Fohey Hartland, Wisconsin

The ring

“I don’t want it!” The diamond in that engagement ring seemed so colorless and cold.

Everyone had gone except the gray-haired, formally-dressed man. “You’re young,” he said. I was sixteen. “You don’t know what you want.”

He slipped my mother’s ring off her finger and dropped it into my hand just before closing her casket.

Sara Smith Harvey, Louisiana

After the honeymoon

In dead silence, he drove to their new home. Just nerves, she thought.

After all, he’s never lived with anyone before. Nothing was said as the last suitcase was brought inside.

“Honey, what’s wr … who’s this?”

Avoiding her gaze, he murmured to the small child, “Meet your new mommy.”

“Not again! Daddy … you promised.”

S.M. Chon San Luis Obispo

Magnificent

Competitive juices flowing, I get right down to work. First word that springs to mind starts it. Knee jiggling nervously, I watch tiles methodically turning, some in my favor. I recklessly type again. As a sea of green unfolds, I hoot with delight, alerting my poor husband, stuck on five. “I got Wordle in two!”

S. Bernstein Arroyo Grande

Cats

“Oh my god, you can talk!” I said to my cat. “How long could you do this for? Where do you go at night? Why do you bite me? What does a mouse taste like? Do you love me as much as I love you?”

I eagerly await his response.

“Can you feed me now?”

Christian Berry Hartland, Wisconsin

The voice of wind

I see the cars below speed ahead. It’s cold out in the dark of night, but no one will see me until it’s too late. As I try to convince myself to go, a brush like wind says, “I got you” in my ear. Looking around, there is no one but me on the ledge.

Emily Biwer Delafield, Wisconsin

An American school

I sit in school, looking at the daily agenda for Spanish.

Lights off. Block the door. No moves. No noises. No phones. I tuck my head and anxiously stare at my Converse.

Footsteps. Another round. More footsteps.

The officer knocks. “You guys passed and can resume class now.”

The drills aren’t always drills anymore.

Katherine Thompson Pewaukee, Wisconsin

Parole

Eighteen years. It was a long sentence, but she endured it all.

Her good behavior paid off. She’d be released tomorrow.

One stupid teenage mistake … well, it’s over now.

Barely 40, she still looked good.

She heard loud honking, then yelling.

“Hey mom! Dad’s shouting to hurry your ass, we’re gonna be late to graduation!”

S.M. Chon San Luis Obispo

Untimely

The gondolier in black rows me across the dark river.

A family reunion awaits, a celebration of life filled with love and memories.

Cold waves crash over the bow, filling the boat, trying to drown me.

Everyone’s waiting for me, missing me, but the Styx is unforgiving, and now I’m late to my own funeral.

Autumn White Glendale Heights, Illinois

Clean energy, clean equipment

opens up new grant programs to help residents transition to equipment that relies on renewable energy

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

For 35 years, the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District has been helping residents and business owners replace old equipment with newer, more environmentally friendly versions through its Clean Air Grants.

“It’s been interesting to see how the technology has evolved over time and how the options have grown for cleaner engines, and also the interest in wanting to transition to cleaner technologies I’m sure has grown overtime,” said Lyz Bantilan, the Air Pollution Control District’s public information officer.

Through a variety of state funding programs, the Air Pollution Control District (APCD) has been able to distribute dollars to applicants willing to take on a project that would transition to cleaner energy, she said. Since the grant’s beginning, the APCD has given more than $50 million and it’s opening its grant again this year with about $2.5 million available.

“It’s obviously great for air quality. It makes a tremendous local impact on our air quality and a great opportunity to replace older equipment with a newer, cleaner version and have the cost covered by this program,” Bantilan said.

Individuals, businesses, and nonprofits can apply to replace onroad heavy duty vehicles like trucks, buses, solid waste collection vehicles, and emergency vehicles; or off-road equipment like tractors, forklifts, loaders and dozers, and excavators, and marine vessels.

The APCD Clean Air grant will also fund alternative fueling infrastructure like electric vehicle charging stations, she said. Successful projects will be eligible to receive a grant

between $10,000 and $250,000.

Applications will be open until Sept. 1 and the applications are no longer first come, first served. Instead, the APCD will prioritize projects based in low-income or disadvantaged areas defined by a map provided by the state, Bantilan added.

“This is an opportunity for the interested entities to make that transition to newer, cleaner equipment and get part of the cost covered,” Bantilan said. “We’ve heard from previous [participants] that these projects are good for their business. It helps them evolve, it helps them embrace new technology. It’s not burdensome to participate in this.”

Each grant agreement is associated with a project life, which is typically three years but could be as long as 10 years depending on the circumstances, she said.

“Grant recipients submit annual reports during the term of their project life, as well as being subject to a random audit inspection during that time,” Bantilan said in an email. “Once the project life is done and the terms of the grant agreement have been met, the grant recipient is free of any further obligations to APCD.”

Along with its Clean Air Grants, APCD is launching a new program that asks landscaping businesses, public agencies, and public schools to participate in its Landscape Equipment Electrification Fund program, she said. This opportunity allows entities to replace old landscaping equipment with electric equipment. Funds will be available until funding is exhausted. Individual homeowners can’t apply.

“Starting in January 2024, new gasoline-powered landscaping equipment will no longer be available for retail purchase,” Bantilan said, citing the state Air Resources Board’s new regulations. Eligible organizations can receive up to $700 for chainsaws, trimmers, edgers, and brushcutters; $1,400 for leaf blowers and vacuums; $1,500 for walk-behind mowers; and $15,000 for ride-on lawn mowers.

“As part of the program, a like-for-like piece of gasoline or diesel landscape equipment must be scrapped for a piece of electric equipment purchased,” Bantilan said. “This program presents a great opportunity for landscaping businesses to start transitioning to and becoming familiar with electric landscaping equipment before 2024 and to have part of the

Highlight:

• The Santa Maria Block Grants Advisory Committee is hosting an interactive workshop on July 31 for members of the public and city staff to discuss general unmet needs in the community—like housing and services for seniors and the unhoused, and transportation. In addition, community members can provide feedback on past performance under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. This workshop marks the start of the public participation process to develop priorities for the Annual Action Plan for Fiscal Year 2024-25, which begins July 1, 2024. The Action Plan is required of local governments that apply directly for federal funds under certain housing and community development programs, such as the CDBG program. The meeting will start at 5:30 p.m. and take place at Shepard Hall in the Santa Maria Public Library—421 S. McClelland St. Results of this workshop will be presented to the City Council during its Aug. 15 meeting. Direct questions or translation service requests to (805) 925-0951, Ext. 2118. If translation services are required, reach out before noon on July 27. m

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

ORCUTT SCHOOLS NOW ENROLLING FOR THE FALL!

The Orcutt Union School District continues to enroll new students for the 2023-2024 school year

Important notes re-enrollment:

• Transitional Kindergarten now will be offered at all elementary sites. Students who turn five anytime between September 2, 2023, and April 2, 2024, are eligible to be enrolled in TK.

• The district continues to operate Full-Day Kindergarten at its elementary sites. Students who turn five prior to September 2, 2023 are eligible to be enrolled in kindergarten.

• Before- and after-school childcare is available through the Campus Connection Program.

To start the enrollment process, go to the district’s enrollment web page at www.orcuttschools.net/enroll/.

For more information, phone our Enrollment Office at 805-938-8946.

Annual Awards Gala 2023

CLEANER EQUIPMENT: Santa Maria Valley-based farming company, DeBernardi Brothers Farming, received an Air Pollution Control District Clean Air Grant that helped replace a tractor that had a diesel powered engine with a new 2020 New Holland model T8.350 agriculture tractor—the cleanest running engine available at the time of purchase.

The Santa Barbara County APCD

BOOK ADS BY: August 4

BOOK ADS BY: August 17 PUBLICATION DATE: August

How do you feel about the county moving from Waste Management to MarBorg Industries for trash collection?

30% I wish the supervisors would have voted to keep Waste Management.

30% I don’t live in the unincorporated areas of the county, so this doesn’t impact me.

20% Great! The rates will be lower and we’re working with a local company.

20% I’m skeptical about MarBorg’s promises, but I remain hopeful.

10 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

Northern Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly

2646 Industrial Parkway, #200 Santa Maria, CA 93455

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EDITORIAL EDITOR | Camillia Lanham

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STAFF WRITERS | Taylor O’Connor

ARTS EDITOR | Caleb Wiseblood

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER | Jayson Mellom

ART DIRECTOR Alex Zuniga

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CONTRIBUTORS | Glen Starkey, Anna Starkey, Ross Mayfield

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Out of reach

Converting to all electric vehicles for low- to mediumincome families is a pipe dream

BY RON FINK

Ihonestly believe that the political class in Sacramento is losing their collective minds.

In my last commentary (“Solutions?” July 13), I pointed out that “the U.S. government is now preparing to hand out $400 billion for green energy projects, and this is just the beginning of the trip down the climate change rabbit hole.”

I recently read that a low-income housing project, Brisa Encina in Mission Hills just north of Lompoc, includes a total of 60 parking spaces including handicap parking and electric vehicle charging stations.

Really, “vehicle charging stations.” We must ask ourselves: How could a person or family that qualifies for affordable housing afford to buy and maintain an electric vehicle?

InsideEVs, a website dedicated to the allelectric car market, reports (see table “All Electric Vehicle Comparison - U.S.” at bottom of webpage) that prices vary with the least expensive being $20,000 and the most being over $200,000.

The National Auto Dealership Association says, “Financing is a component of many consumers’ purchase process. The average cost of an EV financing is $4,583, while an ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicle is $3,247.”

Kelley Blue Book “calculates the five-year cost to own a vehicle, which includes all vehiclerelated costs a consumer will likely have within the first five years of ownership. The data pulled from the first week of February in 2023 shows that EVs cost consumers an average of $65,202 during this time period, while ICE vehicles cost $56,962.” In other words, you’ll spend a yearly average of $2,000 more to own an EV.

My point here is that lowmedium income families will struggle or may not be able to purchase and maintain an EV.

Next is recharging the EV; the lower-cost EVs have a very limited range and require

Speak up!

Send

several hours to recharge. Refueling your gas/ diesel powered vehicle only takes five to 10 minutes. Most low-medium income families must work long hours to make ends meet, so they really don’t have time to sit and wait several hours for their EV to recharge.

A friend recently traveled from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Las Vegas, Nevada, in an EV, which is a little more than a 500-mile trip. In the past he was easily able to make the trip in one day; this time he had to stop overnight to find a charging station and recharge his vehicle halfway, thus extending his trip by an extra day both ways.

Unlike ICE vehicles, the EVs have a very limited range; thus, a worker traveling from Lompoc to Santa Barbara would most likely have to recharge their EV three or more times a week for several hours, while “gassing up” takes less than 10 minutes.

When gas/diesel vehicles were invented, the government didn’t build refueling stations— private industry did. In today’s world, where the government is mandating that everyone convert to EVs, they are spending billions to build a charging network even though most electric utilities are privately owned by stockholders whose dividends depend on generating income. Look around at the multi-family buildings and many single-family neighborhoods in your area; how many cars are parked on the street? Both the on-site parking areas and streets are filled with cars. Will the government provide curbside charging stations? Will the housing authority or private market-rate owners renovate on-site parking areas to accommodate EVs, and will the road systems be re-engineered to handle the additional weight of an all-EV fleet?

Unless Sacramento politicians have a “top secret” long-range plan to provide, at taxpayers’ cost, electric vehicles for low- and moderateincome families, the idea that they can convince the public, most of whom are in this income category, to convert to an all-EV fleet any time in the future is just a pipe dream. m

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

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A glaring omission in the Sun

I was perusing the movie reviews in this week’s Sun and then started looking through the archives for the last several weeks. I noticed one glaring omission, Sound of Freedom. The Starkeys have reviewed every top box office movie in the last several weeks except Sound of Freedom. This movie has held the No. 2 slot for three weeks, consecutively, and its box office numbers are actually trending up rather than down, which is almost unheard of in the industry.

Have the reviewers bought into the hype that this is some kind of QAnon movie? This is an excellent movie railing against child sex trafficking. It is based on the real-life story of an American government employee who rescued more than 100 children from sex trafficking and was hailed as a hero afterward. But now, suddenly, his story doesn’t deserve telling?

Don’t believe the hype—see the movie for yourself.

Stefanie Hassett Santa Maria

Wake up, organize, register, vote!

One year ago, the Supreme Court of the U. S. (SCOTUS) overturned Roe v. Wade with the Dobbs decision, thereby denying the autonomy of American women by proclaiming the state’s right to control their wombs. Coupled with this are efforts by some to build a border fence to keep immigrants out and to corral America’s forced breeding population, relax child labor laws, ban books, and prohibit the teaching of the unpleasant aspects of American history. These draconian measures seek to provide a steady stream of undereducated wage slave consumers without pensions or health care.

Surprise! This is not a new phenomenon in the “Land of the Free.” Now for some of that unpleasant American history.

In 1808 the importation of African chattel slaves into the United States became illegal. Yet, the demand for slave labor continued to increase. The solution was to create “breeding opportunities” for young African American women, with slaves fathered by a white man having increased profits at the auction block. Many white “evangelical” plantation owners opted to cut out the middleman and do the breeding themselves. After all, copulation with “livestock” was not considered to be adultery or rape.

When this vile system of capitalism collapsed following the Civil War, attempts by America’s wage slaves to organize into labor unions were met with violence. Despite the opposition’s use of clubs, bullets, and bayonets, these brave workers acquired an eight-hour workday, a 40-hour work week, and an end to child labor.

Fast forward to today. Recent SCOTUS decisions have rolled back the right to vote, rescinded a woman’s autonomy and the poor’s road to a higher education (affirmative action and student loan relief). Americans will not need to vote, nor read nor write, in a fenced-in America where women are compelled to breed the wage slaves needed to toil their lives away to increase the wealth of the 1 percent.

Wake up, America! This does not have to be our future! If you are not prepared to live off “the crumbs that fall from the master’s table,” organize, register, and vote!

Stephen Siemsen Orcutt

I’m more bird-brained than usual this week because instead of our typical in-depth news, we’re running our annual 55 Fiction contest winners. It’s a highlight of the year for our publication, to be sure, and it gets me all inspired to be shorter and more to the point in this column. So bear with me.

Success?

On July 23, the county rolled out a farmworker resource program to take information to workers in the fields, instead of making them come to a center. It’s got $1 million and one year to make an impact. How will that be measured? Will the public know if it works before the funding is yanked?

Above, beyond Employment, education, financial, and health services are the mobile center’s main goals, plus connecting to growers.

“I plan on working with local growers to build that relationship,” said program coordinator Cesar Guerrero. “It definitely goes with our growers and that’s an area we want to work on. They are just as important as our farmworkers.”

Under the bus

The aforementioned mobile pilot program hit the streets July 23 in a county-purchased bus. What will the county do with the vehicle at program’s end? The county will have to throw itself under said bus eventually; even if it coughs up $1 million next year, inevitable budget woes will lead to cuts down the road.

Granted

There’s a flaw in funding schemes. Besides being finite, grant funding has urgency. Deadlines. Strings. Thus plans get rushed. Foresight is forgone. The county, nonprofits, recipients, can ride the one-year wave, but with no guarantee that there’ll be another grant to sustain what they’ve made. Then new money must be found to solve old problems.

Nuts and bolts

“I’m hoping ... that we find what’s effective because you don’t really know until you start doing it,” 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino said. “I’m just hoping ... we figure out an effective way to do this that’s not going to cost $1 million every year because honestly that’s not sustainable.”

The other hand

How else would the government step in to address problems that agencies lack political will and bottomless budgets to solve? Grants, whether from the state (i.e. the farmworker resource program) or federal government, help counties get stuff done. They’re lifesavers. Literally.

Impact

Headlines scream immigration problems, policy breakdowns, overcrowding, injustice, inhumane treatment of thousands of farmworkers in this state alone. A grant allows one bus, one year. “You will make no difference helping only one at a time.” But advocates know: “We’ll make a difference to that one.” And that one, in turn, may help many.

Bottom line

Decisions must get made. Opportunities must get taken or disappear. “One thing I do know is there is a need in the community … and we need to make sure we go out there and get those referrals to those who need it the most,” said program coordinator Guerrero. Best of luck to you! m

The Canary’s ready for six-word stories. Send comments to canary@santamariasun.com.

By the Sea Productions: Barefoot in the Park

6

By the Sea Productions, Morro Bay

Hot Stuff

MARIACHI AT THE MARIAN

The Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s (PCPA) production of American Mariachi runs through July 29 at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria, before moving to the Solvang Festival Theater for an additional run, Aug. 4 through 27. The show is described as an uplifting, music-filled comedy about daring to dream, according to press materials. For tickets or more info, call (805) 922-8313 or visit pcpa.org.

—Caleb Wiseblood

ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

AMERICAN MARIACHI: SANTA MARIA

An uplifting comedy about family, the freedom to go after your dreams, and the music that unites us. By José Cruz Gonzalez. July 28 , 7 p.m. and July 29 1:30 & 7 p.m. Starting at $25. 805-922-8313. pcpa.org/events/american-mariachi.

PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria.

AND THEN THERE WERE NONE

Presented by Orcutt Community Theater. Through July 30 my805tix.com. Minerva Club, 127 W. Boone, 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. For families of all ages. Aug. 1 , 3 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons. org. Families, get creative with an afternoon of arts and crafts. Try out a new medium, make something amazing together, and take home a piece of art. All skillsets are welcome. Aug. 1 , 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, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 805-344-1630. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.

SATURDAY CRAFTERNOON: FANTASY

MAPS Create your own fantasy world. Using pen and watercolor, create a colorful map of your favorite fictional land or one you’ve imagined on your own. All materials will be provided and registration is required. This workshop is for patrons 18 and older. July 29 2:30 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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

TEEN OPEN MIC NIGHT Hey teens, got talent to share? All talents are welcome, including bands, cosplay, and fashion, poets, singers, musicians, magicians, etc. Come show off in a supportive and

exciting environment and make this a truly unforgettable night. Light snacks will be served. July 28 5:30-8 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org.

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

YOUTH ARTS ALIVE FREE SUMMER

ARTS CLASSES Free classes for children

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

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

AMERICAN MARIACHI: SOLVANG

An uplifting comedy about family, the freedom to go after your dreams, and the music that unites us. WednesdaysSundays, 8 p.m. through Aug. 27 Starting at $25. 805-922-8313. pcpa.org/events/ american-mariachi. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

IMAGININGS: AN EXPLORATION OF WHIMSY With artists Cathy Quiel and Carol Simon. One exhibition, two renowned artists. With oil, watercolor and whimsy, the duo will exhibit the whimsical and unique moments in life through quirky landscapes. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through July 31 Free. 805-688-7517. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos, gallerylosolivos.com.

INSPIRED BY LIGHT A captivating exhibit by Carrie Givens and Karen McGaw. These artists unite their distinct styles in works that depict California’s Central Coast landscapes and fauna. Mondays-Sundays,

10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Aug. 31 Free. 805688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

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

MUSIC IS LOVE: PHOTOGRAPHS BY HENRY DILTZ Highlights a collection of the prolific music industry photographer’s work. 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.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

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

SUNBURST ART SERIES: PAINT-ALONG AND LEMONADE Kick back and relax with a cool lemonade, while you enjoy creating with friends in a supportive environment. You’ll be guided step-by-step to paint a scene of this Spring’s superbloom. All materials (canvas and acrylic paints) are provided. July 30 1-3 p.m. 805-736-6528. sunburst.org. Sunburst Retreat Center, 7200 CA-1, Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam

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

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

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.

BEGINNING WATERCOLOR WITH JAN

FRENCH Come be introduced to the personality and potential of this tricky but dynamic medium. For beginners or watercolorists who’d like to “loosen up” their painting. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Aug. 4 Four classes for $120. janfrench.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-747-4200.

CENART AFTER DARK: CENTURY 21

HOMETOWN REALTY An exhibit of pastel paintings by Bobbye West Thompson, member of the Central Coast Pastel Society (3CPS). Meet the artist during a free reception on July 7, from 5 to 8 p.m.

First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. 805-235-4877. slocountyarts.org. Century 21 Hometown Realty, 599 Higuera St, Ste A, San Luis Obispo.

CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing 805-8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/ foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/babyhandprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

FAMILY POTTERY CLASS A familyoriented class time. Any age or level welcome. Choice of sculpting, painting. or throwing on the wheel. Children must be accompanied by participating parent. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Aug. 26 $35. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

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

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

INTERMEDIATE OIL PAINTING: ADULT

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

INTRO TO DERWENT INKTENSE WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM Learn what these amazing water-soluble pencils can do. In this 3-hour workshop you’ll see demonstrations on a variety of surfaces. July 30 12:30-3:30 p.m. $40 per person. 805-478-2158. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

COURTESY PHOTO BY LUIS ESCOBAR REFLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

ACS MISSION:

Every cancer. Every life.

The American Cancer Society is a leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. From breakthrough research, to free lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 live helpline, free rides to treatment, and convening powerful activists to create awareness and impact, the American Cancer Society is improving the lives of people with cancer and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer.

The American Cancer Society

Road to Recovery People helping people.

Through our Road to Recovery transportation program, the American Cancer Society provides transportation to patients needing assistance to timely care and treatment, with free rides to treatment for cancer patients. Transportation barriers are the number one reason for missed cancer appointments. Driving patients to lifesaving treatment is one of the most meaningful volunteer experiences with the American Cancer Society. Patient transportation grants are funds awarded to health care systems to purchase direct patient transportation services (e.g., gas cards, ride share rides, taxi rides or vouchers, bus passes, etc.) to address transportation barriers to cancer-related appointments.

LODGING Home, far from home

The American Cancer Society’s lodging programs provide solutions for patients and caregivers who need to travel for cancer treatment appointments. In addition to Hope Lodge, we offer a Patient Lodging Grant program and the Extended Stay America (ESA) partnership. The Patient Lodging Grant program was initiated in 2021 as a means to reduce barriers to care for cancer patients and their caregiver through direct lodging assistance. Through this program, ACS grants funds to health care systems nationwide to provide temporary lodging for cancer related medical appointments. The American Cancer Society and ESA are partnering to connect eligible cancer patients to lodging opportunities in select markets. Patients referred to this lodging program will be provided codes to book rooms through a special ESA website. The self-service portal allows patients to make reservations, manage changes, and puts lodging answers back in their hands.

REACH TO RECOVERY Peer support

Reach To Recovery connects people facing breast cancer - from diagnosis through survivorship - with trained volunteers who are breast cancer survivors. Our volunteers provide one-on-one support to help those facing breast cancer cope with diagnosis, treatment, side effects, and more. Reach To Recovery is available through a website and mobile app. The website and app allow people facing breast cancer to create an online profile, instantly match with Reach To Recovery volunteers, and schedule a phone or online visit.

Society Programs and Services

CANCER SURVIVORS NETWORK

Connect anytime

Many cancer patients and caregivers are searching for the information and support that is right for them. Our online communities and tools can help them connect anytime, day or night from wherever they are to help guide them on their journey.

NATIONAL CANCER INFORMATION CENTER Our front door

The National Cancer Information Center (NCIC) opened in January 1997, as the American Cancer Society’s resource for providing consistent, quality, and unbiased cancer information. We provide referrals to resources like support and assistance programs, and we help with other related cancer issues like insurance needs. In partnership with Enterprise Customer Support, constituents can also receive support for American Cancer Society events, donations, and other income programs. Our contact center helps people via telephone 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, as well as via online live chat or video calls during weekdays.

LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS

TEDDY BEAR CANCER FOUNDATION

American Cancer Society Grant Funding is helping our TBCF Families in a Big Way

“...being able to stay near Elijah’s doctors is truly unexplainable. It allows us to focus on the appointments ahead and took away the financial stress of paying for a hotel and gas. Beyond grateful for the programs TBCF.”

In just the past six months, TBCF has distributed transportation funding to 37 families and hotel funding for 17 families of children treated in out-of-town medical centers.

We are so grateful to American Cancer Society for understanding the needs of our families and helping us support them in this very meaningful way.

**ACS has also awarded Mission Hope Cancer Center and Hearst Cancer Resource Center with lodging and transportation grants to help address the needs with their local cancer patients.

LOCAL EVENTS

(HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED)

CENTRAL COAST RELAY FOR LIFE

OCTOBER 28TH 2023

1:00 – 8:00 PM

NIPOMO PARK GAZEBO

WWW.RELAYFORLIFE.ORG/CENTRALCOASTCA

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: HEIDI GAVLAK 805-757-6811 OR HEIDI.GAVLAK@CANCER.ORG

CONSTRUCTION VS CANCER

SEPTEMBER 30TH, 2023

10:00 – 3:00 PM

ACROSS FROM COSTCO IN SANTA MARIA

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: HEIDI GAVLAK 805-757-6811 OR HEIDI.GAVLAK@CANCER.ORG

CENTRAL COAST GOLF TOURNAMENT

NOVEMBER 18, 2023

8:00 – 3:00 PM

BLACKLAKE GOLF COURSE

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: HEIDI GAVLAK 805-757-6811 OR HEIDI.GAVLAK@CANCER.ORG

INTRO TO OIL PAINTING WITH SPENCER

COLLINS

The perfect class for those wanting to try oil painting for the first time. Guests discuss color theory, layering paint, and how to use various media. For ages 16 and over. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $30 per class or $100 for 4 classes. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART

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

Through Aug. 28, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/lisasolomon/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

ONCE MORE, WITH FEELING: GARET

ZOOK Garet Zook’s contemporary sculptures utilize resin castings, molded foam, and natural stone along with abandoned and forgotten objects, unearthing hidden treasures and revealing layers of profound significance, challenging traditional notions of value and inviting viewers to engage in dialogue about the nature of existence. MondaysFridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Aug. 18 Free. 805-546-3202. cuesta.edu/student/ campuslife/artgallery/index.html. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL

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

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

POTTERY: BEGINNING WHEEL CLASS

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

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

SCULPTURE CLASS WITH ROD PEREZ

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

SUMMER ART SERIES: FUSED GLASS

WORKSHOP Janine Stillman will share her 30 plus years of glass experience with you as you explore the art of fused glass to create one of a kind pieces. For more information about this program, email millie@slobg.org. July 30 1-3 p.m. $55-$65. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

VANESSA WALLACE-GONZALES

Wallace-Gonzales is a Black-Latinx and Santa Barbara-based artist who uses elements of mythology to explore her identity and personal experiences.

Through Oct. 2, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/vanessawallace-gonzales/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING

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

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

GUARDIANS OF THE GARDEN

The Lompoc Valley Botanical and Horticultural Society hosts Garden Care Day at the Lompoc Drought Tolerant Demonstration Garden on Saturday, Aug. 5, from 9 a.m. to noon. Community members are welcome to volunteer during the event and are encouraged to bring their own gloves and weeding tools. Snacks will be provided. Visit lvbhs.org for more info. The garden is located at 1801 W. Central Ave., Lompoc. —C.W.

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.

BIKE TO NATURE PROGRAM Participants will learn basic bicycle mechanics (and may get to build their own bike), how to run a community bike shop, how to bike safely on streets, how to select a route to natural and cultural resources, what makes a route safe, and how to advocate for safer streets. Through July 28 movesbcounty.org. Bici Centro, 310 Oak Street, 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.

DO YOU LOVE PIZZA AND TACOS TOO?

FAMILY STORY TIME Bring the family for some fun with Adam Rubin books. Featuring pizza and taco stories, crafts, and activities. Learn about and start an edible garden. For families of all ages. Aug. 3 2 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. 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.

FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.

GARAGE SALE Wide variety of items available: clothing, books, DVDs, office supplies, household/kitchen items, decorative items, etc. July 29 8 a.m.-noon

Sandy’s house, 806 E. Foster Road, Orcutt, 805-406-9989.

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.

LEGO CLUB Stop by the library for an afternoon of Lego madness. Meet with

other Lego fans, build together, or build your own creation. Aug. 2 3 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. engagedpatrons.org.

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

MUGGLE STUDIES 101 Learn about the interesting items muggles use in daily life. What is the purpose of a rubber duck? What other fascinating items and reasons might muggles have? School attire encouraged. July 27 2 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org.

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

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

805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org.

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

TECH HELP SATURDAYS Schedule a one-on-one appointment for instruction on technology topics like setting-up new devices, installing apps, privacy best practices, and enjoying library e-resources at home. Registration is required. Every other Saturday, 11 a.m. through Aug. 5 Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/ library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

TECH MADE EASY: ANDROID OS This workshop is for anyone wanting to learn more about their Android-operated mobile device. Covers phone basics, apps, and simple troubleshooting. Please bring your cell phone to this free class and make sure you know your password. For patrons 18 and older. July 27, 4 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

TODDLER TIME (BILINGUAL) Highenergy learning experience just for toddlers. Toddlers learn and grow through stories, movement, and music. For ages 1-3. Registration is required. Thursdays, 10 a.m. through July 27 Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 20

For Reservations please contact the tasting room at (805) 937-4251 RSVP by Friday, July 28th.

Hot Stuff

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

GARDEN CARE DAY IN LOMPOC Join the Lompoc Valley Botanic and Horticultural Society and help care for Lompoc’s demonstration garden. Bring your gloves and weeding tools; wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. Snacks will be provided. Aug. 5 9 a.m.-noon 805-450-3668. lvbhs.org. City of Lompoc Drought Tolerant Garden, 1801 W. Central Ave., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach. PLANT 101 WORKSHOP Are you ready to take your green thumb skills to the next level? Look no further than this upcoming Plant 101 Workshop. Join to learn everything about house plants, build your own soil mix, and repot a lovely plant. July 30 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $65. 805-574-3793. pacificplantco.com. Pacific Plant Co., 859 N. Oak Park Blvd., Pismo Beach.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS

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

SEA EXPLORERS SUMMER CAMP

New sessions start each week for Sea Explorers ages 5 to 12. Deep dive into a unique marine science subject exploring marine habitats, interacting with live animals, and conducting experiments each day to learn more about the wonders of our oceans. Mondays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through July 31 Varies. 805-457-5357. centralcoastaquarium.com. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach.

STRIDE WITH THE TIDE PISMO BEACH

5K RUN City of Pismo Beach and San Luis Distance Club (SLDC) present Stride with the Tide 5K. Start and finish your race on the sand at the Pismo Pier. Aug. 5 8:30 a.m.-noon $20 race; $35 race and T-shirt. 805-773-7063. pismobeach.org/recreation. Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, Pismo Beach.

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BARS AND BOUNCE CLINIC A sneaky way to get fit. Build whole-body strength swinging on bars and bouncing on trampolines. No experience is necessary. July 29, 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.

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

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

theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

BIRDS AND BOTANY MONTHLY WALK

AT SLO BOTANICAL GARDEN The Garden

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

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

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.

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. 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.

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

LOTERÍA NIGHTS Enjoy a game of La Lotería Mexicana, a bingo-style game with colorful and beautifully-drawn cards. With drink specials and prizes for the winners. RSVP encouraged. Thursdays, 6 p.m. Free. drinkramblingspirits.com. Rambling Spirits, 3845 S. Higuera St. (inside SLO Public Market), San Luis Obispo.

MINDFULNESS & 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.

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED: TRAIN THIS SUMMER TO MEET CRUCIAL HOSPICE VOLUNTEER NEEDS Put your extra time to beneficial use by completing this three-day, in-person, hospice volunteer training program. Community volunteers are critically needed to provide in-home companionship or respite care to hospice patients, near you. July 28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Aug. 4 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-540-6020. centralcoasthomehealth.com/index.php/ hospice/. Central Coast Home Health and Hospice, 253 Granada, San Luis Obispo.

PUPPY SOCIAL HOUR Puppies (10 weeks to 5 months old) will learn appropriate play style with other pups, acceptable manners with people, tolerance for gentle restraints, confidence with the approach of friendly strangers, and more. Saturdays, 9 a.m. and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. $25. 805-543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/training/. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. galacc.org/events/.

Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

QI GONG FITNESS ONLINE Hosted by the San Luis Coastal Adult School. Gentle but powerful exercises for mind and

body with instructor Gary West. Enhance your well being, improve your balance, and practice mindfulness. 19 weeks. Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. through Dec. 13 $95. 805-549-1222. ae.slcusd.org/.

Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

QI GONG FOR MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT

Learn and practice qi gong, a Chinese system for physical, mental and spiritual development. This class is conducted outdoors in a beautiful setting, which is the best place to do qi gong, as its inspiration is drawn from nature. Certified instructor: Devin Wallace. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805-709-2227. Crows End Retreat Center, 6340 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

SLO BLUES BASEBALL: JULY SCHEDULE

Visit site for tickets and full lineup of games. Through July 29 my805tix.com. Sinsheimer Park, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo, 805-781-7222.

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB

MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. through Nov. 25 $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo, 877-468-3861.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

PROGRAM FOR YOUNG ATHLETES

(GRADES 2-4) In this program, your child will learn the foundation of becoming a well-rounded athlete as we focus on skill development, movement, teamwork, and increasing confidence in each workout session. Mondays, Wednesdays, 3:30-4:20 p.m. through Sept. 20 $399 for a 12-Week Session (24 Classes). slocity.org. MZR Fitness, 3536 S. Higuera St. suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-4616.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

PROGRAM FOR YOUNG ATHLETES (GRADES 5-7) In this program, your child will learn the foundation of becoming a well-rounded athlete as we focus on skill development, movement, teamwork, and increasing confidence in each workout session. Mondays, Wednesdays, 4:30-5:20 p.m. through Sept. 20 $399 for a 12-Week Session (24 Classes). slocity.org. MZR Fitness, 3536 S. Higuera St. suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-4616.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG ATHLETES (GRADES 8-12) In this program, your child will learn the foundation of becoming a well-rounded athlete as we focus on skill development, movement, teamwork, and increasing confidence in each workout session. Mondays, Wednesdays, 5:30-6:20 p.m. through Sept. 20 $399 for a 12-Week Session (24 Classes). slocity.org. MZR Fitness, 3536 S. Higuera St. suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-439-4616.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+

AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SUPER REC SATURDAYS Offers the public a full day of recreational swim on Super Saturdays, with an obstacle course, diving boards, activities, and music. All ages are welcome to enjoy. Every other Saturday, 12-6 p.m. through Aug. 13 Adults: $4.75; Youth/Seniors: $4.25. 805-7817288. slocity.org. SLO Swim Center, 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo.

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact

tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

CALIFORNIA MID-STATE FAIR Features

live music, food vendors, carnival attractions, and more. Through July 30 midstatefair.com/. Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

FREE TO FLY: ZIP AND SIP ADVENTURE

Hosted by Women Making Waves. Visit site for more details and tickets. July 30 9 a.m.1 p.m. my805tix.com. Margarita Adventures, 22719 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita.

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

FREE BARBECUE: CEREMONY TO

HONOR PURPLE HEART AND GOLD STAR

COMMUNITY Sponsored by the Cloverlane Foundation and Santa Ynez Community Outreach. Aug. 5 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Avenue of Flags, Avenue of Flags, Buellton.

HIGH TEA Come and enjoy some classic English cakes, cream tea scones, and savory treats with either a hot drink for $40 or glass of English sparkling wine from Chapel Down for $50. This will be a white tablecloth affair with classical music to relax to. First Saturday of every month, 1-3 p.m. through Oct. 7 $40-$50. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539

ORIGIN STORY

The San Luis Obispo Museum of Art (SLOMA) presents Cellular Memory, a solo exhibit of mixed-media artworks by Oakland-based artist Lisa Solomon, through Aug. 28. The showcase features pieces centered on Solomon’s own research on her part-Japanese, part-Jewish ancestry. Visit sloma.org for more info. SLOMA is located at 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

Mission Drive, Solvang. 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. 805-819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com.

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

GROVER STATION GRILL COMMUNITY

OUTREACH A portion of sales benefits Fashions for a Purpose. Aug. 3 8 a.m.-3 p.m. my805tix.com. Grover Station Grill, 170 W. Grand Ave., suite 101, Grover Beach.

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 non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. 805-295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

MUSIC

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

ARWEN LEWIS: LIVE MUSIC AT ZACA

MESA WINERY Enjoy live music by Arwen Lewis at Zaca Mesa Winery. Bring your friends and spend the weekend together with wines and music. July 30 12-3 p.m. Free. 805-688-9339. zacamesa.com. Zaca

Mesa Winery, 6905 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos.

LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays,

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

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

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

KD TRAIN/ KNEE DEEP An evening of pop, soul, funk, jazz, and more. July 28 , 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

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

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.

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

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. Free. 805-925-0951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY

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

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

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. XPRESS NIGHTCLUB Music by the

talented DJ Andy and DJ Kiki Bones. Features prize giveaways and more. July 29 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

FM PRESENTS: LUCIA MICARELLI AND LEO AMUEDO Join violinist and singer Lucia Micarelli and guitarist Leo Amuedo for an intimate concert showcasing diverse influences moving from jazz, to classical, to traditional fiddle music, Americana, and Latin, that creates a musical map binding together Lucia’s trademark emotional vulnerability and Leo’s technical wizardry. July 27 5:30-8 p.m. Tickets start at $59. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. DANA Adobe Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo.

FRIDAY NIGHT HAPPY HOURS: LIVE

MUSIC Enjoy Friday Night Happy Hour at Avila Bay Athletic Club. Aug. 4 6-8 p.m. Free. avilabayclub.com. Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, 805-595-7600.

THE JUMP JAX AND THE TALIA ORTEGA QUARTET: LIVE IN CONCERT Presented by the Basin Street Regulars Hot Jazz Club. July 30, 1-4 p.m. my805tix.com. Pismo Beach Veterans Memorial Hall, 780 Bello St., Pismo Beach.

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

CHAMBER CONCERT 4: A SOLDIER’S

TALE The 2023 Chamber Concert series ends with a performance of Stravinsky’s cautionary story about a soldier who trades his fiddle to the devil. July 28 , 7:30-

9 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that has an authentic feel and an indie attitude. July 29 6-9 p.m. Free. The Mark Bar and Grill, 673 Higuera St., Sal Luis Obispo, 805-439-4400. Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music that has an authentic feel and an indie attitude. Aug. 3 , 1-4 p.m. Free. eastoneverett.com/. San Luis Obispo Golf and Country Club, 255 Country Club, San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-3400.

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

MIDDAY MINI-CONCERT: KO-ICHIRO

YAMAMOTO Ko-ichiro Yamamoto, principal trombonist of the Seattle Symphony, joins pianist Chiao Wen Cheng for a recital of music for trombone and piano. July 27 12-1 p.m. Suggested donation of $10. 805-781-3009. festivalmozaic.org. United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.

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

ARTS BRIEFS

A cast of Gold Rush miners inhabit the Great American Melodrama’s latest production

The Great American Melodrama in Oceano presents Gold Fever at the Rough and Ready which opened in late July and is scheduled to run through Saturday, Sept. 9. Performances of the the local theater group’s latest show take place Wednesday through Friday at 7 p.m., every Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m., and every Sunday at 6 p.m.

According to press materials, Gold Fever at the Rough and Ready is full of “heroic action, love, betrayal, deceit, and villainy,” and offers “loads of opportunities to boo the villain, cheer the hero, and laugh yourself silly.” The show is set in a mining camp during the California Gold Rush and follows an ensemble of lively characters.

Thirty minutes prior to each performance of Gold Fever at the Rough and Ready the Great American Melodrama’s popular snack bar opens for attendees to enjoy, and reopens during each of the show’s intermission breaks.

Other upcoming productions in the Great American Melodrama’s 2023 season include Mummy Dearest (scheduled to open on Thursday, Sept. 14, and run through Friday, Nov. 10), and The Holiday Extravaganza (scheduled to open on Thursday, Nov. 16, and run through Sunday, Dec. 31).

Call (805) 489-2499 or visit americanmelodrama.com for tickets to Gold Fever at the Rough and Ready or more info on the Great American Melodrama and its rotating lineup of shows. The theater is located at 1863 Front St., Oceano.

Tickets can also be purchased in person at the theater’s box office, which is open Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m., and every Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Admission to Gold Fever at the Rough and Ready ranges between $30 and $36, with discounts available for children (ages 12 and under), students (ages 13 to 18), seniors (ages 62 and older), and active and retired military.

Santa Maria Public Library hosts Saturday Crafternoon program

The plot thickens

Orcutt Community Theater stages murder mystery at the historic Minerva Club

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Built during the late 1920s, the Minerva Club currently houses a group of thespians with a shared goal of transporting theatergoers to the following decade.

Since mid-July, the Santa Maria landmark has played an important role in the Orcutt Community Theater’s production of Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, set in the late ’30s.

“The building becomes a character in the play in its own right,” the show’s director, Dan Bullard, said about the Minerva Club’s historic clubhouse facility designed by famed architect Julia Morgan in 1928.

Performances of the play, adapted from

Christie’s 1939 whodunit novel, run through Sunday, July 30. Bullard said that the Orcutt Community Theater is grateful for the opportunity to use the space for its latest show, thanks to a partnership with the Minerva Club Building Preservation Fund and its director, Ethel Donati.

Setting this stage adaptation of And Then There Were None at the venue, completed nearly a decade before the publication of the original Christie novel, gives the show an extra dose of old-timey charm, Bullard explained.

“Staging this play in the Minerva Club has provided a unique, ideal, but also challenging situation, as we are using the entire space as the setting of the play itself, which is a mansion located on a deserted island off the coast of Devon, England,” Bullard said. “It creates just the right atmosphere and ambience. I knew this was the right place to stage this show, and figuring out the logistics of it all has been fun.”

Minerva mania

Orcutt Community Theater presents its production of And Then There Were None at the Minerva Club through Sunday, July 30. Performances of the show are held Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m. Admission is $20, and tickets are available at the door or in advance at my805tix.com. Call (805) 268-2993 or visit orcuttcommunitytheater.org for more info. The Minerva Club is located at 127 W.

The ensemble cast that brings Christie’s characters to life in the Orcutt Community Theater’s new spin on the tale is made up of both regulars and newbies in the local group, Bullard said.

“I am very fortunate to be working with such an outstanding cast,” the director said. “Several of them I have had the great pleasure of working with before and others are brand new to Orcutt Community Theater, which is terribly exciting for us. We are counting on seeing much more of them in the future.”

The director described his approach as “one of collaboration” on this production and past plays.

“Everyone has an equal voice, cast and crew, and I encourage them all to share their ideas. That was certainly the case here,” Bullard said. “Each and every cast member made valuable suggestions and contributions, all in service to the play and their characters.”

Registration is open for the Santa Maria Public Library’s upcoming Saturday Crafternoon workshop, scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 29, at 2:30 p.m.

The class is open to guests ages 18 and older. During the program, participants will use pens and watercolor to create maps of their favorite fictional areas.

For more info on the workshop, call (805) 925-0994, Ext. 8562, or visit cityofsantamaria.org/library. The library is located at 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. m

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

The play was penned by Christie herself, who wrote the 1943 adaptation four years after her classic novel was released. Like the book, the show’s plot follows a group of strangers lured to a mansion on an isolated island. A violent storm traps them there, where dark secrets about each of the strangers are gradually revealed, and death seems to pluck them off one by one at an alarming rate.

“I had seen a film version of And Then There Were None years ago and had read the novel, so I was very familiar with the story,” Bullard said. “I am a longtime fan of the mystery/thriller genre, and Agatha Christie is truly the queen of mystery.”

Actors enter and exit the center stage, surrounded by audience members on every side, in various directions, which can make attendees feel like they’re actually there, in the middle of the play’s mysterious mansion, Bullard said.

“It becomes an immersive experience for the audience,” the director said. “It’s perhaps not so much ‘theater in the round’ as it is ‘theater in the hexagon.’”

Without giving away spoilers, Bullard said that his favorite segment of the play to direct was its final act.

“The third act contains powerful, confrontational moments in which the actors achieve a level of tension and suspense that does not let up for a moment, all leading to the stunning climax of the story,” Bullard said. “It’s a gripping and surprising conclusion.” m

Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood is in the mood to play Clue. Send candlesticks and lead pipes to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com

Boone St., Santa Maria.

ENTANGLED ENSEMBLE: Invited to a mansion by a mysterious host, a group of strangers becomes entangled in a murder plot during the Orcutt Community Theater’s production of And Then There Were None

PHOTO COURTESY OF ORCUTT COMMUNITY THEATER FILE PHOTO BY ZAC EZZONE

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

Original Music Arrangements by Cynthia Reifler Flores

Out of the box

Co-written by Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach (The Squid and the Whale, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Frances Ha, Marriage Story) and directed by Gerwig (Lady Bird, Little Women), this comedy fantasy finds Barbie (Margot Robbie) magically transferred from Barbie Land into the real world with Ken (Ryan Gosling), leading Barbie to question her world and her very existence. (114 min.)

an unwelcome “Beach” Ken stowed away in her pink convertible T-Bird. While she looks for the petulant adolescent—Sasha (Ariana Greenblatt)—Ken discovers patriarchy, and ain’t it grand!

BARBIE

Glen: Has there ever been a piece of plastic as divisive and controversial as the Barbie doll? Is Barbie a horrible role model of unrealistic body expectations? Is she a feminist icon that can be anything she can dream of? According to Greta Gerwig’s pinktacular new film, she’s both. The next question is whether this new film is one giant product-placement advertisement or is it art? I’m going to also say … it’s both! In Barbie Land, “Stereotypical”

What’s it rated? PG-13

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price

Where’s it showing? Movies

Barbie (Robbie) is living her best life. Hers is a world with a female U.S. President and allfemale Supreme Court, a world free of racism and sexism … as long as you’re a woman. Kens, on the other hand, are afterthoughts, especially “Beach”

Lompoc, Regal Edwards

Arroyo Grande, Regal Edwards RPX Santa Maria

Ken (Gosling), a mostly vacant, vaguely jealous dude who just wants Barbie to love him. Things go haywire for Barbie when she begins to have thoughts of death, so she goes to “Weird”

Barbie (Kate McKinnon) for advice. Told to go to the real world and find whoever is playing with her to cheer her up, off she goes, with

Film & Television Reviews

Oppenheimer

What’s it rated? R

When? 2023

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

Based on Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin’s 2006 biography, American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer screenwriter-director Christopher Nolan (Batman Begins Inception, Dunkirk) helms this film adaptation about the American scientist (Cillian Murphy), chronicling his role in developing the atomic bomb. The story shifts back and forth through time between Oppenheimer’s university years, his interest in communism, his work on the Manhattan Project, and most importantly, his shift in fates between American hero to villain.

This is a stunning, thrilling piece of cinema—a truly spectacular achievement from a director whose films never fail to dazzle. In it, we explore the brilliant enigma that is Oppenheimer—in turns tortured and egotistical. For better or worse, he’s credited with unleashing the most destructive weapon the world has ever known—a dubious honor, and

Anna: The hype is real. There are Barbie parties all over social media, a huge line of mostly women decked out in pink in front of the theater, and some serious nostalgia for those of us who had a drawer full of Barbie dolls and who drooled over that Dreamhouse. I’m sure execs aren’t sad that this film is making the brand a mint and that they’re bound to rake in some serious sales in the weeks and months to come, but there’s definitely an even bigger picture here. The Barbie Land bubble is pretty and pink and perfectly perfect—or so it seems. The Barbies all think that their existence led to the “real world” being a place where women are in charge, girls are empowered, and things run smoothly—just like their paradise. But when Barbie lands in her rollerblades and skintight neon leotard, she starts to feel things—things she doesn’t like. Self-conscious, unsafe, weirded out by the men on Venice Beach who catcall and ogle her. This isn’t the world she was told about! In the meantime, Ken feels the power of the patriarchy and can’t get enough. Finally, a world where men are in charge! This movie is ferociously funny, but it doesn’t stop there—it has plenty of deep-rooted commentary on the world, feminism, and how we treat each other.

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certainly one that seemed to torment him. Aside from the United States nearly 78 years ago, atomic bombs have never been used, but the threat has hung ominously over humankind ever since.

There’s an uncomfortable scene when, after the successful Trinity nuclear test, Oppenheimer gives a speech before the

Glen Barbie has a lot going on, no doubt about it. Sasha feels disconnected from her mom, Gloria (America Ferrera), so part of the story is about them reconnecting. Gloria delivers an incisive monologue delineating the dichotomous tightrope-like line women are expected to navigate. Rhea Perlman makes an appearance as the ghost of Ruth Handler, co-founder of Mattel and creator of Barbie, a groundbreaking doll because it wasn’t a baby to be nurtured by a girl playing mommy but a woman girls could project themselves into. I’ll sheepishly admit, I have a newfound respect for Barbie dolls.

cheering team that works on the Manhattan Project. The U.S. won the race for an atom bomb, and the world lost. (180 min.) —Glen

Jury Duty

What’s it rated? TV-14

When? 2023

Where’s it showing? Amazon Prime’s Freevee

Whatever lengths the casting department had to go through to get Ronald Gladden to sign up for this experiment were well worth it. He thinks he’s on a real jury, one that’s being filmed for a documentary showing the process of a civil trial. Little does he know the bizarre behavior and absolutely odd characters surrounding him are all an act. But while the trial may be a farce, the friendships that come out of the experience are real, and Gladden proves himself to be a genuinely wonderful person.

From James Marsden who plays himself and manages to get the jury sequestered to odd Todd (David Brown) whose obsession with cyborgs leads him to invent and sport chairpants to court, this grab bag of kooky characters makes for a funny and touching group that Ronald, the jury foreman, must wrangle. The judge, the bailiff, the witnesses—they’re all

Anna: Yeah, Barbie rules! Has the company made some odd choices throughout the years? Sure! No one needed a Skipper who goes from an A to a C cup or Barbie with a weird TV in her back, but the important thing to remember is that we learn through growth, even when it hurts. I love Gerwig, and this film only deepens that. Join the craze and get to the theater for this one. It’s well worth it. m

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

actors playing a role.

If you need a well-deserved break from serious shows, Jury Duty is a lighthearted and oddly endearing series that shouldn’t be missed. (eight 26- to 29-min. episodes) m —Anna

WHEN PAINTING KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS, take extra time to clean walls and ceilings. The kitchen will have cooking grease near the stove and the bathroom will have a soap film from shower steam. Lightly sand the semi-gloss enamel to help with adhesion. Remove loose caulk around shower and use a quick dry paintable caulk. Make sure you maintain a wet edge on the smaller ceilings to avoid lines. Larger ceilings can be difficult to roll without showing lines, so spraying is the best option. To complete the new paint project, clean your cabinets for a total renovation of your project. CALL US FOR ADVICE, IT’S ALWAYS FREE.

ALEX FERREL PAINTING

When you decide to paint the exterior of your house or business, create a game plan to make the project efficient. Rent a power washer from your local rental yard for removing dust and loose paint. If possible don’t use the 0 degree red tip on your woodwork for it will remove and destroy the surface. The green and yellow tips will be used the majority of the time. The white and black tips can be used to clean large surfaces such as stucco and siding. It is recommended to spray a cleaner on the stained stucco but understand you will not remove all of the stained areas. It’s likely the stain has permeated into the surface, so prime the areas with a stain blocking primer before painting. Just remember, there is a tremendous amount of pressure being released and use with caution when on a ladder. Never run the power washer without the water on for the engine will overheat and damage the unit. CALL US FOR ADVICE, IT’S ALWAYS FREE.

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YOU CAN BE ANYTHING? Margot Robbie stars as Barbie, a doll who’s transported from Barbie Land to the real world, forcing her to question everything she knows, in Barbie, screening in local theaters.

DESTROYER OF WORLDS: Cillian Murphy stars as American scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer, who helped create the atomic bomb, in Oppenheimer, screening in local theaters.

THE RONALD SHOW: Like the fictional Jim Carrey film The Truman Show, Jury Duty places unwitting regular-guy Ronald Gladden onto a jury and trial populated entirely by actors, streaming on Freevee.

Sips and chopsticks

Margerum

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

There’s a black and white portrait in the Margerum Wine Company’s new tasting room in Los Olivos that leads some guests to assume its subject is no longer with us.

“I’m still alive,” Santa Barbara County-based vintner Doug Margerum said with a laugh, before shifting his gaze to another framed piece in the venue, among a row of landscape paintings.

said about the interior of his new wine tasting space, which opened in early July in downtown Los Olivos. “That painting needs to be down an inch. That’s a huge problem for a person like me.”

Dynamic duo

The Margerum Wine Company’s new tasting room in downtown Los Olivos is open daily, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (805) 504-1209 or visit margerumwines.com for more info. The tasting room is located at 2446 Alamo Pintado Ave., Los Olivos. For more info on BB Sushi, call (805) 2709317 or visit sushibb.com. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 4 to 8 p.m., and is located at 2621 Highway 154, Santa Ynez.

oysters are supplied by Jina and Brian Bae, of BB Sushi in Santa Ynez, and are available to patrons of the new Margerum space as long as they place their order a day in advance of their visit.

Margerum

“There are a couple little things that probably wouldn’t bother anyone else, but they bother me,”

If Margerum is as much of a perfectionist as he lets on, that would explain why his wine and food pairing suggestions taste as good as they sound. The intimate space is the first of its kind in the Santa Ynez Valley to pair sushi and oysters with both red and white wines on a regular basis.

Sushi bento boxes and Kumamoto

Each bento box includes: fresh Dungeness crab baked with vanilla bean sauce and wrapped in soy paper; buri sashimi yellowtail with yuzu kosho, brushed with yuzu soy sauce; unagi sashimi; bulgogi grilled Korean spiced pork with sesame seeds and green onions, served with white rice; and bluefin tuna, avocado, shisho leaf, and umeboshi with creamy sesame sauce

“I think one of the greatest pairings ever is ahi or tuna with red wine,” said Margerum, who opposes the old myth that seafood pairs best with white wine,

The vintner’s stance is reflected in his recommended tasting of the 2021 Margerum M5 red Rhone blend to pair with the bluefin tuna. With the Dungeness crab, Margerum suggests a tasting of the 2019 Barden blanc de blancs—from the winery’s sister company, Barden, founded in 2014.

While the Margerum Wine Company, founded in 2001, makes its wines from grapes found in multiple AVAs, including the Los Olivos District and Happy Canyon, Barden exclusively uses grapes grown in the Santa Rita Hills AVA.

To pair with the yellowtail found in his tasting room’s bento box, Margerum recommends the 2022

Margerum Sybarite Sauvignon Blanc.

With the unagi sashimi, Margerum suggests a tasting of the 2021 Margerum M5 estate white Rhone blend, and patrons are encouraged to try the Korean spiced pork and white rice with a tasting of the 2019 Barden pinot noir.

Margerum hopes his unique collaboration with BB Sushi—with as much emphasis on the food offerings as the wine—will help set his new tasting room in Los Olivos apart from similar outlets in the area.

“I came from a background of food and wine. I always think about food when I make wine,” said the vintner, who worked in server and chef

positions at a handful of restaurants in Santa Barbara before becoming a business owner. “That’s the way wine should be drunk, at the table, with food.

“I’m actually convinced that people wouldn’t have as many horrible differences with one another if they spent more time that way,” added Margerum, who said he likes to conduct business meetings over a meal whenever possible. “We spend a lot of business time at the table. You tend to talk more, and compromise.” m Send something for Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood to read at the dinner table to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

PHOTO BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

SNACK IN THE BOX: Bento boxes from BB Sushi are available at the Margerum Wine Company’s new tasting room in Los Olivos for patrons who order their meal a day in advance of their visit.

WINE WIZ: Local vintner Doug Margerum has been working in the food and wine industry for more than four decades. He founded the Margerum Wine Company in 2001.

PHOTO BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

THE WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER: Thanks to a collaboration with BB Sushi, one of the Margerum Wine Company’s menu offerings is a dozen of Kumamoto oysters with ponzu, green onion, and sriracha.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARGERUM WINE COMPANY

ROOM TO GROW: The Margerum Wine Company opened a new tasting room in Los Olivos in early July. The Santa Barbara County-based winery’s flagship tasting room is located in downtown Santa Barbara.

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ATTN: MR. MIGUEL ANGEL CEJA - ADJ17009844

ORDER DISMISSING & ORDER THAT DISMISSAL REMAINS STAYED PENDING PUBLICATION

Attention Mr. Ceja:

Please take notice that your case was set for a Mandatory Status Conference on May 2, 2023 at 8:30 A.M., before Honorable Judge Lee at the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board located at 2550 Mariposa Mall, Suite 4078 Fresno, CA 93721. At this hearing, the Judge ordered you to appear at the next hearing set for June 27, 2023 at 8:30 A.M., before Honorable Judge Lee at the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board located at 2550 Mariposa Mall, Suite 4078 Fresno, CA 93721. However, you failed to appear and your attorney was unable to contact you.

Sapra & Navarra LLP filed a Petition for Dismissal of your case on June 8, 2023. Later, Honorable Judge Hatakeyama issued a Notice of Intention to Dismiss your case without prejudice on June 12, 2023, giving you 10 days to show good cause to the contrary, before an Order Dismissing your case would be issued.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an Order Dismissing Case without prejudice was issued in the above-entitled matter on June 27, 2023. The order shall remain stayed pending publication of the Notice of Intention to Dismiss and Order Dismissing Case, for four consecutive weeks.

ATENCIÓN: SR. MIGUEL ÁNGEL CEJA - ADJ17009844

ORDEN DE DESPIDO Y ORDEN DE DESPIDO PERMANECE EN PENDIENTE DE PUBLICACIÓN

Atención Sr. Ceja:

Tenga en cuenta que su caso se programó para una Conferencia de estado obligatoria el 2 de mayo de 2023 a las 8:30 a.m., ante el Honorable Juez Lee en la Junta de Apelaciones de Compensación para Trabajadores ubicada en 2550 Mariposa Mall, Suite 4078 Fresno, CA 93721. En este audiencia, el juez le ordenó que compareciera en la próxima audiencia programada para el 27 de junio de 2023 a las 8:30 a.m., ante el Honorable Juez Lee en la Junta de Apelaciones de Compensación para Trabajadores ubicada en 2550 Mariposa Mall, Suite 4078 Fresno, CA 93721. Sin embargo, usted no se presentó y su abogado no pudo comunicarse con usted.

Sapra & Navarra LLP presentó una Petición de Desestimación de su caso el 8 de junio de 2023. Posteriormente, el Honorable Juez Hatakeyama emitió una Notificación de Intención de Desestimar su caso sin perjuicio el 12 de junio de 2023, otorgándole 10 días para demostrar buena causa a la contrario, antes de que se dicte una Orden de Desestimación de su caso.

SE NOTIFICA que se dictó Auto de Sobreseimiento sin perjuicio en el asunto antes mencionado el 27 de junio de 2023. Dicho auto quedará paralizado a la espera de la publicación del Aviso de Intención de Sobreseimiento y Auto de Sobreseimiento, por cuatro semanas consecutivas.