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The Holdovers: Funny and sad [34]

The season of celebration is here and so is our annual issue dedicated to all things holiday [13]

BY SUN STAFF

NEWS

Santa Barbara County’s housing element [4]

ARTS

A Christmas Story in SLO [32]

EATS

Nipomo’s spot for oysters [36]

Contents

NOVEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023 VOL. 24 NO. 38

T

hanksgiving is almost here, and the holidays—including Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve—aren’t far behind, which means it’s time to start thinking about what you’re going to cook, what you’re going to buy, where you’re going to celebrate, and who you’re celebrating with. Lucky for you, we’ve got lots of suggestions in our annual Holiday Guide. You can start by checking out the local holiday events, happenings, festivities, and more [13]. We’ve also included stories about how and where the less fortunate can celebrate the season [14] and delicious alternatives to turkey and/or ham [16].

In addition, you can read about what the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission decided about future housing plans [4]; A Christmas Story onstage in SLO [32]; and the Nipomo restaurant shelling out fresh oysters [36].

Camillia Lanham editor

DreamHome

YOUR

Cover courtesy photo by Mike Laan > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

NEWS

AWA I TS

WESTERN VILL AGE SHOPPING CENTER

805-347-1121

News Briefs ...............................................................................4 Political Watch.........................................................................4 Spotlight......................................................................................6

Carpet & Floor

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ARTS

Arts Briefs ............................................................................... 32

MOVIES

Reviews ....................................................................................34

OPINION

S A N T A M A R I A . A B B E Y C A R P E T.C O M

2 0 5 1 S . B R O A D WAY • S A N T A M A R I A

ORNAMENTAL AND MONUMENTAL: Solvang Julefest 2023 festivities will kick off in downtown Solvang on No.v 24 and run through Jan. 6, 2024.

This includes a tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 1, the Julefest Parade on Dec. 2, the Solvang Tree Burn on Jan. 5. Visit solvangusa.com for more info.

Web Poll ......................................................................................8 Modern World ..........................................................................8 Canary ..........................................................................................9

CLASSIFIEDS, HOME, AND REAL ESTATE ....................................................39

EVENTS CALENDAR

Hot Stuff ....................................................................................10

000 SINCE 2

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www.santamariasun.com • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • Sun • 3

News POLITICAL WATCH • U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) recently reacted to news that the United States successfully brokered a deal with Israel to approve daily pauses in military action in Gaza to allow humanitarian aid to reach civilians in need and facilitate the safe evacuation of civilians from areas where Israel may be conducting operations, according to a Nov. 9 statement from Carbajal’s office. “As I have repeatedly said, protecting civilians and rooting out the perpetrators of unconscionable terrorist attacks are not incompatible goals—and American diplomacy in the Middle East has been nonstop in pursuing that balance,” Carbajal said in the statement. “By brokering an agreement with Israel to allow for these pauses in military operations, we can now advance efforts to ensure that every step is being taken to get civilians out of harm’s way and that lifesaving aid is getting to those in need while we continue to support Israel’s mission of uprooting the Hamas terrorists who one month ago shattered the region’s fragile peace.” He added that the announcement is a positive step but there is still action needed to have a “balanced approach” that supports “Israel’s right to self-defense and the safety of Palestinian civilians” in Gaza.

• U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California) and Edward J. Markey (D-Massachusetts) introduced legislation in the Senate to ensure that truckers are compensated fairly for the hours that they are on the clock, including overtime, according to a Nov. 9 statement from Padilla’s office. The Guaranteeing Overtime for Truckers Act would repeal the motor carrier provision of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, which excludes many truckers from overtime protections enjoyed by other workers. In response to an executive order by President Biden, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued a Freight and Logistics Supply Chain Assessment in February 2022, which highlights high turnover rates and compensation issues in the trucking industry.

Among its recommendations, the department called on Congress to repeal the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 motor carrier provision. “America’s truck drivers are on the front lines of our economy, enduring long hours away from home, and all too often unpaid wait time at congested ports and warehouses. That’s because for decades truck drivers have been excluded from overtime pay protections,” Padilla said in the statement. “If truckers are forced to wait while on the job, they should be paid. This is not just a matter of fairness, it’s a matter of public safety. Experienced truckers are safer truckers, and better compensation will help more of them stay in the profession. It’s time we guarantee overtime for truckers.”

• Ahead of oral arguments in United States v. Rahimi, Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a statement urging the Supreme Court to uphold a federal law prohibiting individuals under domestic violence restraining orders from possessing firearms, according to a Nov. 7 statement from the governor’s office. This case is being heard by the Supreme Court following the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision ruling that the “red flag” law is unconstitutional under the Second Amendment.

Newsom filed an amicus brief in the Supreme Court earlier this year that argued that the lower court incorrectly interpreted the Supreme Court’s Bruen decision and that the government’s ability to enact gun regulations to protect people from dangerous individuals is supported by a long-standing tradition.

“My message to the Supreme Court today is simple: Gun safety laws save lives—and keeping guns out of the hands of domestic abusers is consistent with long-standing historical tradition and the Second Amendment. The Supreme Court must reverse the lower court’s outrageous decision,” Newsom said in the statement. m

November 16 - November 23, 2023

➤ Spotlight [6] FILE PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM

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MAKE WAY FOR HOUSING: The Santa Barbara County Planning Commission approved the county’s Housing Element, which calls for the county to build 5,664 units by 2031.

Santa Barbara County Planning Commission approves Housing Element

The Santa Barbara County Planning Commission recently voted 4-1 (with 2nd District Commissioner Laura Bridley dissenting) to approve the county’s Housing Element update, which will go to the Board of Supervisors on Dec. 5.

The Housing Element is a process each jurisdiction in the state is required to go through every eight years to address housing needs and identify new housing development potential. The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) wants Santa Barbara County to build 5,664 units in its unincorporated areas by the end of this cycle (2023-31) to meet the housing need—which is nearly 10 times larger than the previous cycle’s allocation of 661 units.

“We in this county are experiencing one of the nation’s most severe housing crises,” county Supervising Planner Allen Bell told the commissioners at the Nov. 8 meeting. “When we look at costs, the county ranks sixth in terms of the highest cost per rental housing in the U.S.” Santa Barbara County is also expected to increase its population by 13 percent, from 461,000 in 2020 to 520,000 in 2050—increasing the demand for housing and continuing to put pressure on housing costs, he said.

The state divides the total housing development allocation into four income categories—very low, low, moderate, and above moderate, he said. This cycle, HCD also split Santa Barbara County’s allocation into two subsections, North County and the South Coast, with 75 percent of the allocation going toward the South Coast because of a jobs-housing imbalance.

North County must develop 1,522 new units— with 807 low- and very low-income units, 229 moderate income units, and 486 above moderate income units. Based on current vacant sites, accessory dwelling units, and pending projects, North County already has a surplus of moderate and above moderate units, but still needs to develop 478 units for low- to very low-income levels, according to the Planning and Development presentation.

The South Coast must develop 4,142 new units, 1,766 low- and very low-income, 1,051 moderate, and 1,325 above moderate—however it still needs to create space for 1,667 lower income and 860 moderate income units based on the current capacity.

The county can accommodate by rezoning private land or county-owned sites, planner Eva Marrero told commissioners.

“Staff examined more than 1,000 sites to identify an initial list of proposed rezones, vacant infill development sites for potential rezones that

4 • Sun • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

are closer to public transit, water, sewer, and other infrastructure,” Marrero said.

Planning and Development Director Lisa Plowman added that the state has 90 days to make the final determination after the Board of Supervisors hearings. Rezoning would be a separate process that will take place in early 2024.

“The state has gotten very serious about jurisdictions actually creating a set of circumstances where housing could be built,” Plowman said. “That means removing government barriers or other barriers we could control, making sure we have adequate land and adequate densities, and there are a lot of consequences when you’re not in compliance.”

If the county doesn’t approve the Housing Element, it could lose out on state grant funding for developments, lose local control and HCD would administer project permits rather than the county, or it could face state litigation, she said.

Despite the consequences, 2nd District Commissioner Bridley voted against the Housing Element in “a protest vote” because of the amount of housing allocated to her district alone.

“I have a district that is going to freak out when they understand what is going to be built near them or could be built near them,” Bridley said.

“The 4,700 units that could happen in the 2nd District, for my constituent base that is not in the public welfare benefit or several of the findings. I know you will get approved. I think it was a good job, I’m just not there.”

She said that she’d like to see the housing spread out more between the districts rather than having it concentrated in the communities she represents.

“I understand better than other people the jobshousing [imbalance], the work-to-home commute … but to have so much of it, 55 percent in the 2nd district, which is the smallest geographic district,” she said. “I just think that it’s a little bit lopsided, so spreading it out to other parts of the county, whether it’s a bit more in the 1st District or the 3rd District.”

—Taylor O’Connor

Solvang City Council addresses recent Zoombombing incidents

Zoom calls from public comment participants are commonplace at city hearings in Solvang, but the popular platform was ironically not used by any speakers during a recent discussion on silencing certain kinds of virtual discourse in the future.

“I’ll point out that I keep looking at the screen to see if anyone has joined us,” City Attorney David Fleishman said at the Solvang City Council’s Nov. 13 meeting.

Fleishman explained that two prior meetings

in October were flooded with multiple Zoombombers, or Zoom raiders, who aimed to disrupt both hearings with racist and inflammatory comments.

Although the remarks were unheard by in-person attendees, including City Council members, they were audible to those who accessed the meetings via Zoom, before staff ejected the Zoombombers.

“The comments that did make it through on Zoom last time were pretty inflammatory,” Fleishman said at the City Council’s Oct. 23 meeting, referring to the Zoombombing incident at the Oct. 9 meeting. “They were pretty awful. I did get a chance to listen to a couple of them.”

At the Oct. 23 meeting, the City Council directed staff to draft a policy on removing Zoombombers more seamlessly. Fleishman said that meeting was also plagued by Zoombombing during the public comment period for an item on Hans Christian Andersen Park improvements.

“It’s very difficult because we don’t know in advance, other than by the screen names that we see on the screen, whether or not someone is going to have a legitimate public comment until they start speaking,” Fleishman said at the Nov. 13 meeting, when staff returned with a Zoom policy proposal. “With some of them, we’ve had some advance warning just based on their names.”

One of the pseudonyms used was “Henry Himmler,” which tipped off staff that the user was “probably not someone who’s going to be making a comment about housing or pickleball courts,” Fleishman said.

“But we can’t always pre-suppose that,” added Fleishman, who described the proposed Zoom policy as setting up “guardrails” the council can use to cut off Zoombombers quickly, without deviating from First Amendment protections.

The proposal outlines a procedure for the mayor to follow in the event of a suspected Zoombombing, which includes automatically muting the suspect and issuing a verbal warning to stop using disruptive or derogatory language and allowing them one more chance to speak before being ejected if they don’t comply.

“There’s one step where the mayor would warn a ‘bomber’ before their exit, and I just don’t necessarily feel that that’s needed,” Councilmember Elizabeth Orona said after Fleishman’s brief presentation on the policy. “You guys have already shown us how quickly you can do it. I’m not sure we need that extra step.”

Councilmember Claudia Orona agreed and said including the policy in the instructions for the public to join meetings via Zoom is cautionary enough.

“They break them, they’re done. No warning,” Claudia Orona said.

“I think from a constitutional standpoint and a defensibility standpoint, that’s the reason we put in the warning,” Fleishman said. “If they’re not warned or don’t have an opportunity to cure whatever it is they’re doing, then it makes it look like we are making advance determinations of what their speech is going to be about. It’s prior restraint.”

Councilmember David Brown motioned to adopt the policy without revisions, which Elizabeth Orona seconded and was unanimously adopted.

“It’s kind of a tightrope at times, but we’re trying to provide the Council with the tools to stop the ones who are clearly outside the pale,” Fleishman said. “We want to make sure that we are consistent with the First Amendment by allowing people who do have legitimate issues, even if we may not agree with them, to speak and provide that comment to the council.”

—Caleb Wiseblood

Santa Maria expects to save $12 million with solar agreement

Santa Maria stepped toward clean energy and dollars saved as the City Council voted

NEWS continued page 5

News NEWS from page 4 4-0 (with Councilmember Maribel AguileraHernandez absent) to approve a 20-year contract to construct and operate solar power infrastructure at eight city-owned sites— generating expected savings of more than $12 million throughout the contract’s lifespan.

The wastewater treatment plant, civic center, police department, transit yard, Paul Nelson Aquatic Center, James Hagerman Sports Center, Minami Park, and City Well No. 12 will receive new solar infrastructure to create 4,417 kilowatts of solar power across all eight sites, saving the city an estimated $139,679 in first-year utility bills, Public Works Director Brett Fulgoni told the City Council during its Nov. 7 meeting.

“Our rate will not change for 20 years, it will be a 0 percent escalation, and we assume we’ll save $12.6 million in over 20 years,” Fulgoni said.

The city accomplished this by entering into a 20-year power purchase agreement with ForeFront Power for solar panel construction and the School Project for Utility Rate Reduction (SPURR) for solar power. SPURR is a joint powers authority that offers a Renewable Energy Aggregated Procurement (REAP) program that helps entities purchase and install solar energy equipment and get affordable rates to offset energy costs, according to the staff report.

Each solar project at individual sites will be approved and budgeted by the City Council, but the city isn’t obligated to spend dollars for items under the agreement—which include a 20-year fixed energy rate, lifetime system operations, and maintenance to the infrastructure. The city will also have no upfront costs, according to the staff report.

ForeFront Power also typically hires 50 percent local contractors for its projects and this agreement also includes a commitment to hire at least 30 percent of all construction hours from targeted workers in Santa Maria’s disadvantaged communities.

“The system is designed to have a 20-year lifespan. … ForeFront will need to remove all that, we won’t have any obligation to demolish anything, that’s one of the benefits of the power purchase agreement,” Fulgoni added.

The REAP program has been used by 38 agencies across California, and Fulgoni added that he called a few of these entities for references—including the Santa Maria Airport, Allan Hancock College, SLO County, Fresno County, and the cities of Ventura and Fresno, and he received positive feedback from all parties.

While Councilmember Mike Cordero was concerned with what happens after the 20-year contract is up, he said he was supportive of the city taking steps toward alternative energy.

“I think these kinds of things are going to ultimately be very smart decisions we make to get involved with these kinds of endeavors in the foreseeable future,” Cordero said during the meeting. “We have to; that’s the way America is going and that’s the way the world is going. I appreciate everyone’s efforts to get involved a little more. It will be paid back in spades I believe.”

The Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce, along with the Santa Barbara County EconAlliance; the Coalition of Labor, Agriculture and Business of Santa Barbara County; and the Santa Barbara County Taxpayers Association wrote a public comment letter to support the solar power project because of the anticipated cost savings.

“The city is always challenged on their budget and how to stretch taxpayer dollars, and if there’s an option for the city to power [its] buildings for less cost, then that’s a win for the community,” chamber President and CEO Glenn Morris told the Sun. “I do think it’s helpful when the city demonstrates leadership, and if they’re successful then others will have more confidence [in] looking at that option themselves.” m —Taylor O’Connor

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Welcoming Dr. Ryan Leachman DO, MBA

News

SPOTLIGHT

Local U.S. history The Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum launches new World War II exhibit to honor local veterans

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

S 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.

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into the museum were scanned so the originals could be returned while still being preserved and stored on file at the museum—making them easier to access and care for, she added.

“I’m still collecting, and I’d love to have more and people share more of their stories. It’s one of those things we want to remember and gather up before the history disappears on us,” she said.

“We are trying to have four Our Valley History presentations a year, and I would love someone to come share about World War II, about their father, grandfather, or uncle who has that knowledge.”

On The Home Front will come back again next Veterans Day but it will focus on the Korean War and then the Vietnam War to continue documenting the part locals played in U.S. history. Klein said she has started folders for both of these exhibits and is welcoming people to come and share their stories with her for future use.

“Part of our responsibility is to collect and preserve this history, and this is one area we’re losing. We’re losing the memories, the people,” she said. “I want to gather and make sure we share these stories before they are forgotten.”

helley Klein embarked on a journey gathering stories from local Santa Marians about their personal or family history in World War II and received more than she expected for a new exhibit at the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum.

“I told my board, ‘I think I bit off more than I could chew.’ It’s a lot more people than I thought it would be,” Klein said.

The museum had exhibits on the Civil War and World War I, but never PHOTO COURTESY OF SHELLEY KLEIN emphasized other wars in U.S. History, said Klein, the museum’s curator and director.

“I thought: We need to start bringing in people who remember their fathers and grandfathers and uncles and get that memory and memorabilia and those stories before they are forgotten,” she said.

After sending out a call on Facebook, Klein said she heard back from several community members willing to bring in letters, documents, and memorabilia for the display; Klein helped document all of the personal stories from people in the war and stored them in the museum’s archives for future reference. Called On The Home Front, the display is available until Dec. 22 for locals and families to come see and honor local World War II veterans.

“We have letters from families, a whistle and an arm band from the local air raid. We have ration books, we have a cake topper with a military man,” Klein said. “We have all kinds of things that show what’s going on.”

From surviving torpedo hits in different battles, to having their home and business destroyed by a war plane crash, to someone being ON THE HOME FRONT: Thanks to donations from one of the first volunteers called into residents, the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society the Army in 1940, Klein said she Museum launched its newest exhibit celebrating locals heard a variety of stories of those who served in World War II. It runs through Dec. 22. impacted by the war.

“We’ve got tons of people who came here and made this their home, so their families wanting to share these things was just Highlight amazing,” Klein said.

• The Orcutt Christmas Parade returns to Because Allan Hancock started an aeronautical Old Town Orcutt after 61 years of entertaining school in Santa Maria, the Army was looking MUSIC families and the community. The parade will for an air base in this area, which led to the start at noon and make its way down Clark development of the Santa Maria Airport’s current Avenue with the American Legion Color Guard FLAVOR/EATS location and caused many families to relocate leading the way.

The parade will feature 75 here for their service in the military, she said. to 90 entrants, including local school bands, Originally, Klein said, she relied on local high floats, families, service clubs, classic cars, and INFO schools’ yearbooks to find families who served, businesses decked out in their holiday best. The but she later realized many people moved to Santa Orcutt Volunteer Fire Department initiated the Maria after the war. annual Christmas parade in 1961. Eventually, CALENDAR “What happened was some ended up a group of residents formed the Orcutt remaining in the military and ended up in the Community Foundation and with the support of Camp Cook area that continued to grow and OPINION the Orcutt Lions Club, donors, and volunteers, became Vandenberg [Air Force Base] and a lot the parade has become a highlight of the Orcutt of people were hired,” she said. “Our town grew, Christmas season. Visit orcuttchristmasparade.

NEWS almost doubled in the late ’50s and ’60s.” org to enter into the parade by Nov. 24. Call Once the exhibit wraps up, (805) 863-2842 or email kat@ Klein said that she plans to krse.biz to donate or sponsor STROKES make it a smaller permanent the event. m feature in the museum Send business and where she rotates stories Reach Staff Writer Taylor nonprofit information to ARTS and memorabilia on display.

O’Connor at toconnor@ spotlight@santamariasun.com.

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Opinion ONLINE POLL

Buckle up

Is the Dana Reserve doing enough to balance native habitat and housing? All-electric trash trucks will cost much more than the 69% No. There’s no excuse for removing current versions more than 3,000 trees.

19% Yes! The development is adding plenty of new trees.

12% Meh. I don’t have a strong opinion on trees or housing.

0% It doesn’t matter—we need housing whatever the cost.

16 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

Northern Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly 2646 Industrial Parkway, #200 Santa Maria, CA 93455 EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING | 805-347-1968 E-MAIL | mail@santamariasun.com WEB | www.santamariasun.com FOUNDER | Steve Moss 1948-2005 EDITORIAL EDITOR | Camillia Lanham ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Andrea Rooks STAFF WRITERS | Taylor O’Connor ARTS EDITOR | Caleb Wiseblood STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER | Jayson Mellom ART DIRECTOR | Alex Zuniga EDITORIAL DESIGNERS | Leni Litonjua, Taylor Saugstad CONTRIBUTORS | Glen Starkey, Anna Starkey, Ross Mayfield ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE | Kimberly Rosa ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES | Katy Gray, Lee Ann Vermeulen, Andrea McVay PRODUCTION ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER | Mary Grace Flaus GRAPHIC DESIGNERS | Eva Lipson, Ellen Fukumoto Danielle Ponce Business Cindy Rucker CIRCULATION | Jim Chaney, Michael Ferrell, Margo Baldives, Simon Lopez PUBLISHERS | Bob Rucker, Alex Zuniga OFFICE ASSISTANT / ACCOUNT MANAGER | Kristen LaGrange MARKETING & PROMOTIONS COORDINATOR | Michael Gould SUBMITTING LETTERS WRITE | Mail your letter to Sun Letters, 2646 Industrial Parkway #200, Santa Maria, CA 93455. Include your name, address, and phone number.

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

COMMENTARY

➤ Canary [9]

BY RON FINK

G

et ready folks, your trash bills will be growing soon. That doesn’t mean that the service would get any better than it already is, it just means that the cost to your local solid waste utility is going to go up significantly because the state of California will begin requiring the acquisition of fully electric trash collection vehicles after Dec. 31, 2023.

Recently the Lompoc City Council discussed a request to purchase 10 new side-loading solid waste collection vehicles; the staff report accompanying this request revealed some of the fiscal and supply chain problems that will start occurring next year for every solid waste utility in California.

Lompoc city staff says, “The development of fully electric solid waste collection vehicles is in its initial stages. As such, there are limited options for electric solid waste collection vehicles that would meet the needs of the city’s collections operations.

In addition, substantial improvements to the city’s electric distribution system will likely have to be made to provide for electrification of the city’s vehicle fleet.”

This is only part of the increased costs; allelectric trucks will cost much more than the current versions, and new maintenance processes would have to be developed to service and repair these trucks and their various components. In addition, the staff report didn’t try to speculate on the cost of upgrading the electrical system to handle the new load requirements.

LETTERS

WRITE NOW!

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

Bidenomics led to inflation, increased costs for consumers

I wonder if people realize what has brought about increased costs to every facet of our lives?

It is called “Bidenomics,” the increased spending and the nonstop printing of money by the federal government is the primary cause of the “out of control” inflation America is experiencing and will continue to experience until spending is brought to reasonable levels. Government nonstop printing of money results in more dollars competing for goods and services, which in turn results in the higher prices for those goods and services. The national debt currently stands at $33.6 trillion.

The administration’s war on fossil fuels has resulted in huge increases in the cost of gasoline at the pump. If you add to that the fact every product brought to market requires fuel to get it there, you understand why we have experienced these dramatic price increases. Think about the fact that agricultural products alone require fuel for planting, harvesting, transporting to market, and ultimately for the consumer to transport the product home, fuel costs are added to one product four times.

Then, there are the costs of increased regulations governing the production, transporting, and marketing of many items. Don’t forget the federal government’s raising of interest

8 • Sun • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

The staff report continues: “If the solid waste to be able to grasp what it would take to provide utility were to opt to be a first adopter of electric either the vehicles or the ability to recharge and collection vehicles, it is likely the utility would need maintain them. to increase the number of front-line collection Of course, they aren’t worried about the cost vehicles needed to operate the current routes because state government is only “mandating” without impacting customer service levels.” the change and not paying for it. The only time And, “Moving they will see the cost forward, increases in is when their trash the level of services collection bills at home due to regulatory start increasing at a mandates, and dramatic rate to absorb increases in volume the additional cost for by customers, would service. require the acquisition The Lompoc City of two collection Council, based on vehicles annually, on the solid waste utility an ongoing basis, to recommending the continue providing proactive acquisition of the required level of reliable diesel vehicles, service to customers. will act prior to Dec. 31.

However, the pending California mandate But that isn’t all, “As a high-value, long-life vehicle, requiring electrified collection vehicles makes that the collection vehicles are intended to be secured by orderly replacement cycle problematic. capital lease financing over a seven-year period to “To retain an adequate complement of vehicles, match the estimated operational life of the vehicles.” while waiting for mature electrified collection The current council is being aggressive and vehicle options, requires the Solid Waste looking out for ratepayers while fixing mistakes Division to acquire enough classically powered made in 2013 by a former mayor and council collection vehicles now to continue to provide majority that couldn’t see beyond the meeting in MUSIC orderly services to customers. Any expansion of progress and mitigate cost increases we would services due to the construction of new housing otherwise be exposed to beginning in 2024. The developments will likely increase the number of current council is doing the right thing!

FLAVOR/EATS collection vehicles needed on a daily basis beyond What we really need is new leadership at the this recommended purchase.” state level who can think beyond the rantings The state of California in its misguided of “Earth saving”INFO environmentalists and make effort to convert the vehicle fleet to all-electric decisions based on the potential impacts to the vehicles has created an unsustainable situation citizens they serve because of the mandates they for municipalities and private sector solid waste are considering.CALENDAR m collection enterprises in Ron Fink writes to the Sun the coming decades. The from Lompoc. Send a letter shallow thinkers in state level OPINION for publication to letters@ government, including Gov. Send us your santamariasun.com.

Gavin Newsom, don’t seem views and opinion to NEWS letters@santamariasun.com.

The state of California in its misguided effort to convert the vehicle fleet to all-electric vehicles has created an unsustainable situation for municipalities and private sector solid waste collection enterprises in the coming decades.

Speak up!

rates, which has caused mortgage interest rates to skyrocket. All these government actions have resulted in greatly increased costs to consumers all across America.

So remember when you hear the word “Bidenomics,” the current economic policies of the federal government are in fact playing a huge

STROKES part in the inflation you are experiencing. These increased costs you are paying for groceries, fuel and utilities, insurance and health care are ARTS not going down, they never do. Like it or not, “Bidenomics” is here to stay.

John Texeira Paso Robles

Opinion

The hardest thing

M

ath might be the subject that confuses all of us at times. I know I’m confused by the numbers that Santa Barbara County Planning Commissioner Laura Bridley proffered during a recent meeting.

During the Nov. 8 meeting, she was the sole commissioner to vote against the new cycle of the Housing Element—a state requirement to allocate space for future housing development.

At that meeting, she also claimed that her district, the 2nd, received 55 percent of the housing allocation. She stated it another way: that 4,700 units “could happen in the 2nd District.”

I’m not sure I understand. The total allocation for the South Coast, which the 2nd District resides in, is a little more than 4,100 units. With a 15 to 20 percent buffer, the top end total of housing units that could potentially settle onto the South Coast before 2031 is between 4,800 and 5,000.

North Santa Barbara County was allocated an additional 1,500 units, which would be between 1,700 and 1,900 with the buffer.

Even if every single unit for South County ended up in her district—between 4,100 and 5,000 units—it doesn’t equal 55 percent of the total units in the county’s Housing Element.

So, what’s she trying to say? Either I need a math lesson or she does. I’m confused.

She also admitted to being stuck in the 1990s and 2000s.

“It’s just my age,” she said. “I have a district that is going to freak out when they understand what is going to be built near them or could be built near them.”

People are going to freak out about housing no matter where it goes, lady.

She also claimed that Santa Barbara has been a “magnet for homes” over the last 30 years, which is why “we” have commuters coming in. In reality, the state believes that the Santa Barbara area hasn’t built enough homes because people have to live elsewhere and commute to South County for work.

Maybe we should get someone in that 2nd District seat who sees the housing problem Santa Barbara County’s facing as a 2023 reality.

“We were always in a housing crisis,” she added. “In 1988, the mortgage rates were 14 percent. So it was never easy to buy a house here and now it’s worse.”

Well, that was almost 40 years ago. Thanks for the history lesson. Can we talk about now, please?

At least 1st District Planning Commissioner C. Michael Cooney acknowledged that things do change: “I came on the Planning Commission at a time where there was a real effort to minimize growth and the number of people living in the county, and we did not feel the pressure that people could not live here,” he said.

The scrutiny then, he added, was on proposed developments and narrowing the impacts they would have on existing developments, “on existing citizens’ lives.”

“This is turning in the opposite direction,” Cooney said.

The future contains a lot of work for the commission—which he isn’t looking forward to due to the potential for real conflict over the areas of the county that could be rezoned to allow for housing development.

Both Bridley’s and Cooney’s statements say a lot about why the South Coast might be in this mess to begin with. m The canary is available for math class at canary@santamariasun.com.

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www.santamariasun.com • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • Sun • 9

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10-DAY CALENDAR: NOVEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 26, 2023

SINGING LOUD FOR ALL TO HEAR

The Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA) presents its production of Elf: The Musical, which opened at the Marian Theatre in early November and is scheduled to run through Saturday, Dec. 23. The cast includes Erik Stein (left) as Santa Claus and George Walker (right) as Buddy the Elf. Visit pcpa.org for tickets and more info. The Marian Theatre is located at 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.

—Caleb Wiseblood

COURTESY PHOTO BY LUIS ESCOBAR, REFLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

ARTS SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

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

BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. 805-928-7799. Kleindancesarts. com. KleinDance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.

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/.

ELF: THE MUSICAL Based on the classic comedy film, adapted for the stage with music by Matthew Sklar and lyrics by Chad Beguelin. Through Dec. 23 pcpa.org. Marian Theatre, 800 S. College Dr., 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.

832-884-8114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.

RADIUM GIRLS: READERS THEATRE Based on the harrowing true story of

female factory workers in the early 20th century, this ensemble piece explores their struggle for justice against a corporation that knowingly put their lives at risk.

Through Nov. 18 my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

WIT: READERS THEATRE Written by Margaret Edson, this Pulitzer Prizewinning drama is a profound exploration of life, death, and the human condition.

Through Nov. 19 my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. through Nov. 30. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

DIANE ROSE ZINK’S NUTCRACKER Everybody Can DANCE and the Santa Maria Civic Ballet present Diane Rose Zink’s Nutcracker. Described as a Central Coast Tradition for more than 35 years.

Artistic Director Diane Rose Zink has continued to enhance and embellish her production of Tchaikovsky’s glorious ballet over the years. Nov. 25, 7-9:30 p.m. and Nov. 26, 3-5:30 p.m. $20-$25.

805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ ecdb-smcb-nutcracker/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

ARTISAN’S FAIRE This annual scholarship fundraiser features a wonderful variety of original artwork and handmade goods from local artisans. Also features the popular Artisan Cafe, serving lunch and homemade pie, and a raffle prize. A fun day to start off the holiday season. Nov. 18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free to the public. 805-3634084. womansclubofarroyogrande.com.

Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande.

EMBROIDERERS GUILD OF AMERICA The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its monthly meeting. For

CALIFORNIA’S CHANGING LANDSCAPE: THE WAY OF WATER Featuring more than 20 large-format documentary inkjet photographs of the Golden State, this timely exhibition showcases George Rose’s recent expansive documentation of California’s dramatic water story. Nov. 18July 8 Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, 805-688-1082, wildlingmuseum.org.

THE MAGICAL WORLD OF EYVIND EARLE Eyvind Earle (1916-2000), an internationally acclaimed artist who helped revolutionize film animation with his work on Disney classics, is being honored with this exhibition. Nov. 25-Jan. 15 Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, 805-686-1211, elverhoj.org.

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.

POINTS OF VIEW Britt Friedman and Gerry Winant display their landscape paintings. Gerry will also exhibit abstract paintings along with his realistic landscapes. Closed on Thanksgiving Day.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

CRITTERS: REAL AND IMAGINED Photographer Rick Skillin and glass artist Joellen Chrones, will showcase wildlife photos and fused glass critters. A reception will be on Nov. 12 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free.

805 -737 -1129. lompocart.org. Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

New Times and the Sun now share their community listings for a complete Central Coast calendar running from SLO County through northern Santa Barbara County. Submit events online by logging in with your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account at newtimesslo.com. You may also email calendar@newtimesslo.com.

Deadline is one week before the issue date on Thursdays. Submissions are subject to editing and approval.

Contact Calendar Editor Caleb Wiseblood directly at cwiseblood@newtimesslo.com.

10 • Sun • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

more information, follow on Facebook or visit the EGA website. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 18 Free. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach, 805-773-4832.

HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA See Scrooge find his Christmas spirit and enjoy other tales during the Melodrama’s annual holiday production. Nov. 17-Dec. 31 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

HOLIDAY MARKET Come to the Avila Bay Club and Spa for an open event of local artists, special gifts, handcrafted delights, and much more. If you are interested in being a vendor, contact ahna@ avilabayclub.com. Nov. 19, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Free. 805-595-7600. avilabayclub.com.

Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach.

TRILOGY CLAY BUDDIES ANNUAL HOLIDAY POTTERY SALE A great opportunity to find that one-of-a-kind gift.

Items include functional ware, garden art, home decor, and more. Also includes beautifully decorated bake goods by members of the Trilogy Service Club. Nov. 26, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Trilogy at Monarch Dunes, 1640 Trilogy Pkwy, Nipomo.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

43RD ANNUAL CENTRAL COAST CRAFT FAIR The Central Coast’s longest-running 100 percent handmade craft show featuring many local makers and artisans.

Cider and cookies available to welcome you as you shop. Features a prize drawing fundraiser for Central Coast Quilts of Valor Foundation supporting veterans with quilts and Wreaths Across America. Nov. 24-25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission and parking. San Luis Obispo Vets’ Hall, 801 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, 805-781-5930.

INDEX Arts...................................... 10 Culture & Lifestyle ...........12 Food & Drink .....................30 Music ..................................30

ALISA SIKELIANOS-CARTER The Alisa Sikelianos-Carter exhibition at SLOMA will promote an emerging female artist of color whose works are inspired by the stories of her Black ancestors and traditionally Black hairstyles, centered on ancestral power and mythology. Nov. 18-March 10, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/ exhibition/alisa-sikelianos-carter/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., 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.

ARTIST’S TALK WITH ALISA SIKELIANOS-CARTER Join SLOMA and the Palm Theatre for an artist’s talk with Alisa Sikelianos-Carter, whose In Space and Splendor exhibition will launch in SLOMA’s Gray Wing. General seating available. Nov. 18, 11 a.m.-noon Free. 805543-8562. sloma.org/artists-talk-alisasikelianos-carter/. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.

A CHRISTMAS STORY Jean Shepherd’s memoir of growing up in the Midwest in the 1940s follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher, and even Santa Claus. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through Dec. 23 $15-$40. 805-786-2440. slorep.org.

SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., 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.

AN EVENING WITH DAVID SEDARIS Known as one of America’s preeminent humor writers, the master of satire returns to SLO with his sardonic wit and incisive social critiques. Nov. 16, 7:30-9 p.m. $35.60-$68. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org.

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

THE FACULTY SHOW ‘23 A testament to the diverse and collective brilliance of the Cuesta College Fine Arts faculty through a variety of media. A portion of all sales help fund the Fine Arts Access Scholarship, making an arts education more affordable for the next generation of artists.

Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 8 Free. 805-546-3202. cuesta.edu/ student/campuslife/artgallery/index.html.

Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, 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. Saturdays, 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.

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

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

702-335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

ARTS continued page 12

SLO Botanical Garden, El Chorro Park

House Team Improv Comedy Show

Paso Robles Event Center Mid-State Fairgrounds

Shamanic Morning Rituals for Vitality

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16 SLO Wine and Beer Company

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

By the Sea Productions: A Rainbow Holiday

Radium Girls Readers Theatre

Ensemble Team Improv Comedy Show

Christmas at the Ranch

Point San Luis Lighthouse: Holiday Tours

Santa Margarita Ranch

Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

VARIOUS DATES & TIMES FRI, NOV. 24 THRU SUN, DEC. 17

A Magical Night with KISS and AC/DC Tributes

SAT & WED, DEC. 2 THRU DEC. 30

Wit Readers Theatre

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17 SLO Public Market

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

FRI & SUN, NOVEMBER 17 & 19 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

Bill Gaines Audio: Big Annual Swap Meet

SLO Master Chorale: Beyond the Notes

Noche de Acordeon y Cumbia

Be Hoppy Tours: Friday Hoppy Hour 11/17–12/29 Sip of SLO SATURDAYS 11/18–1/27 Tours begin & end at The Hub, SLO

Basin Street Regulars: Three Martini Lunch & The Jazz Alley Review

FRI, SAT, SUN, NOV 17–DEC 3 545 Shasta Avenue, Morro Bay

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Capitolio Way, San Luis Obispo

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18 The Bunker SLO

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Rib Line by The Beach, Grover Beach

Guerra de Bandas: Banda Invasora & Banda Real 12-21

Peaceful Plants: Macrame Plant Holder Class

5CHC “Dinner for a Cause” Giving Tuesday Banquet 2023

Chakra Meditation on the Beach

Laugh Therapy Stand-Up Comedy Show

Vocal Arts Ensemble: Winter Concert Series: Dona Nobis Pacem

House Team Improv Comedy Show

Orcutt Community Theater: Santa Claus Conquers the Martians

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30 SLO Wine and Beer Company

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26 Pianetta Winery, Paso Robles

FRI, SAT, SUN, DEC. 1–17 Klein Dance Arts Studio, Santa Maria

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Pismo Beach Golf Course, Grover Beach

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Maverick Saloon, Santa Ynez

WED, SAT, SUN, NOV. 29, DEC. 2 & 10 Trilogy, Mission SLO, Cuesta CPAC

805 Artisan Market

Black Sabbatha (A Black Sabbath Tribute)

Misfit Live Comedy: Manny Maldonado

Holiday Violin Concert: Mischa Lefkowitz

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Hunter Ranch Golf Course, Paso Robles

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Paso Lounge, Paso Robles

SELL TICKETS WITH US! It’s free! Contact us for more info: Central Coast Aquarium

FRI: 12–3PM SAT & SUN: 10AM–4PM San Juan Street, Avila Beach

SLOFunny Comedy Show

2024 SEASON PASS 10 SHOWS MARCH–DECEMBER Various Venues, SLO County

Dollar Beer Tuesdays

EVERY TUESDAY 4PM TO CLOSE Launch & Ladder Pub, San Luis Obispo

Live Music, Trivia, Karaoke, and more!

805-546-8208

CHECK WEBSITE FOR DETAILS Club Car Bar, Templeton Mercantile

info@My805Tix.com

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5 Trilogy at Monarch Dunes, Nipomo

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PUBLIC NOTICE

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs and activities receiving Federal financial assistance. Specifically, Title VI provides that "no person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance" (42 U.S.C. Section 2000d).

As a recipient of Federal aid through two of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (US DOT’s) operating administrations, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Santa Maria Regional Transit (SMRT) is accountable for compliance with both Title VI and the following implementing regulations: US DOT’s “Nondiscrimination in Federally-Assisted Programs of the Department of Transportation” (49 CFR Part 21), FTA’s “Title VI Requirements and Guidelines for Federal Transit Administration Recipients (FTA Circular 4702.1B), and FHWA’s “Title VI Program and Related Statutes” (23 CFR Part 200). These regulations have expanded the original Title VI protections to incorporate subsequent related statutes, including protections against discrimination based on gender, age, and disability; and federal policies regarding environmental justice and limited-English proficiency.

The proposed Revised Non-Discriminatory Title VI Plan for FFY 24-27 is available for review on our website RideSMRT.com.

Request for Public Comment on Proposed DBE Goal Public comments are encouraged and will be accepted: by email at smrtcomments@cityofsantamaria.org, or by mail to Santa Maria Transit at 110 S. Pine St, Suite 101, Santa Maria, CA 93458 Santa Maria Transit will consider all comments received by Dec 15, 2023 before submitting the proposed draft goal to City Council for adoption. *This notice is in accordance with requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation (49 C.F.R Part 26).

Book Tee Times Online Today Tournaments / Bar & Grill

Naughty or Nice list?

Bowtique has gifts for all

Rancho Maria Golf Club

805-937-2019 • 1950 CA-1, Santa Maria www.ranchomariagolf.com

Naughty or Nice list?

BOWTIQUE HAS GIFTS FOR ALL!

That’s Fetch is THE PLACE to find holiday apparel, treats, stocking stuffers & gifts for furbabies and animal lovers!

Shop our newly remodeled bowtique!

3564 Skyway Dr., S.M. (805) 361-0802

ThatsFETCH805.com

COURTESY IMAGE BY EYVIND EARLE

ARTS from page 10

Proposed Revised Non-Discrimination Title VI Plan Federal Fiscal Years 2024 - 2027

Gift Cards Available

NOVEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 26, 2023

Grooming Team: Colette Florey, Janae Amador & Isabella Moreno.

Groomers Assistants: Brandi Janke, Cody Dugan & Holly Prewitt.

12 • Sun • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

JOHN BARRETT John Barrett was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1952 and grew up in Manhattan Beach, California. He began pursuing his career as an artist in the late 1960s influenced by his great-grandfather, a painter. Through Nov. 27, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ john-barrett/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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

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

LEARNING CALLIGRAPHY AND ITS HISTORY WITH CHERYL BARTON Over the course of four sessions, learn the basics of calligraphy, practice notable scripts, and take a look at the compelling history and evolution of the scripts we use today. Email Cheryl at cbchezza@ gmail.com for more info and to register.

Fridays, 10:30 a.m.-noon through Nov. 17 $28 per class, or $100 for all four. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-747-4200.

LESLIE SUTCLIFFE This installation consists of 96 panels, any number of which can be assembled and reassembled in a multitude of ways.

Initially, the individual panels were inspired by the rich visual imagery in Italo Calvino’s Six Memos for the Next Millennium. Through Jan. 29, 2024 Free.

805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ mementos-of-six-millennia/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

OUTSIDE THE BOX Craftmakers presents Outside the Box, an exhibition of fine craft, including clay masks, encaustics, collages, fabric, sculpture, and more. Craftmakers is an artist group of the Central Coast Artists Collective. Through Nov. 27 Free. 805-7474200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

PAINTING AN EVENING MARINA WITH PASTELS WITH JIM TYLER Complete a large, complex painting over the course of 1.5 days. Start with a wet underpainting technique to provide a rich glow. This is an instructor-led class with demonstrations each step of the way. All experience levels welcome. Nov. 17, 2-5:30 p.m. and Nov. 18, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $140. 805-7482220. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

PARENT-CHILD POTTERY CLASS Make lasting memories with clay together as a family. For ages 6 and over. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon $70. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

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.

SLO DRAWZ: OPEN FIGURE DRAWING GROUP Improve your drawing skills while also building a community of supportive creatives with live models.

This is not a guided class, please bring your own materials. To sign up, email chantellegoldthwaite@gmail.com.

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

WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY? Prepare to laugh until you cry when four of the world’s most masterful improv artists take you on the high wire act of comedic acrobatics.

The rapid-fire wit and non-stop jokes will have your sides splitting and begging for mercy, and also begging for more. Nov. 21, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $62-$69. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

WAKING LIFE

The opening reception for The Magical World of Eyvind Earle, an upcoming exhibit at the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, will take place on Saturday, Nov. 25, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Earle (1916-2000) lived in Solvang during the ’60s and ’70s and is widely known for his background painting work on Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. Visit elverhoj.org for more info on the exhibit.

The museum is located at 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang.

—C.W. NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

Peterson, Greg Siragusa, Cathy Russ, Dominic Hartman, and Grant Kreinberg capture the ever-changing moods and breathtaking vistas of this iconic coastal paradise. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Nov. 29 Free. 805772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com.

Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. GIFTY UNDER FIFTY ALL YEAR ROUND Costa Gallery is gearing up for the holiday season. Check out a seasonal collection of art. Thursdays-Sundays. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos, 559-799-9632.

MOSAIC GIFTS Create a unique, one-ofa-kind gift for that special someone on your gift list. You will have many colors, baubles, and beads to choose from to make your creation very personal. You’ll also learn everything you need to make a mosaic from cutting to gluing to grouting.

Nov. 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Various. 805-2865993. creativemetime.com. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

DEBRA PIAZZA: ACRYLIC, MIXED MEDIA ARTIST Piazza began her painting career during the pandemic, and uses handmade collage papers, and/or anything she can find to enhance the texture of a flat canvas.

Exhibiting at Morro Made, Rustic Diamond, Morro Bay Art Association, Cayucos Makers, and Mea Winery. ongoing 650888-2168. artbypiazza.com. Morro Made, 490 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay. DISCOVER GIFTS OF WHIMSY AND WONDER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Enjoy Larry Le Brane’s Holiday art and gifts at Costa Gallery in November and December.

Explore drawings, paintings, sculpture and functional fused glass, along with work by 20 West Coast artists. They wrap and ship gifts, too. Stop by for seasonal treats and surprises. Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free admission.

559-799-9632. facebook.com/costagallery.

Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

FINE ART FELTING BY DEBBIE GEDAYLOO Debbie Gedayloo’s textured paper, fabric, and fiber art, from soft felted bowls to detailed landscapes and abstracts, brings a gentle hand-crafted essence to your home. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Nov. 29 Free. 805-772-1068.

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at 30 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED IN SANTA Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, MARIA/ORCUTT Community Partners Morro Bay. in Caring is seeking volunteers to help FINE ART PAINTINGS BY SPANKY support dependent older adults and ANDERSON In Spanky Anderson’s own seniors. ongoing partnersincaring.org. words: “My peripheral vision of the central Santa Maria, Citywide, Santa Maria. coast sunrises and sunsets dictate the ALTRUSA’S ANNUAL MAGICAL color palette and brushstrokes onto my CHRISTMAS TREES FUNDRAISER The canvas.” Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, Altrusa group will bring in 30-40 trees and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Nov. 29 Free. 805allow businesses and groups to decorate 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. them with a theme. Proceeds from raffle Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero tickets will benefit local scholarships. Nov. suite 10, Morro Bay. 25-Dec. 10 kiasm.com/altrusas-annualFINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP SHOW: magical-christmas-trees.htm. Santa Maria WINDWARD TIDES Experience the beauty Kia, 2175 Bradley Ave., Santa Maria. of the California coast through stunning CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 29 landscape photography. Artists Karen

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO BOTANICAL GARDEN

2023

and a few other surprises. Dec. 7, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Senior Center members: $10; non-members: $15. slocity.org/seniors. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, 805-540-9484.

HARVESTLY HOLIDAY MARKET Come meet Harvestly vendors, indulge in delicious food, explore an array of shopping opportunities, and discover the wonderful offerings from our local community. All products at the event are also available to order online. Dec. 10, 1-3 p.m. Free entry. 805-457-5818. harvestly.org. San Luis Obispo County Farm Bureau, 4875 Morabito Place, San Luis Obispo.

MAKESHIFT MUSE: BIG HOLIDAY SHOW Features live music, food and treats, workshops, and holiday shopping opportunities. Dec. 9, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Dec. 10, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. themakeshiftmuse.com. Madonna Expo Center, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.

SLO COMMUNITY HOLIDAY FEAST Enjoy a delicious holiday dinner, live musical entertainment, and winter clothing care packages for unhoused individuals or anyone in need. Volunteers, cooks, and donors are needed to help with this event. Sign up online. Dec. 25, 2:45-5:30 p.m. Free. 805-594-1999. signupgenius. com. Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY CHRISTMAS IN CAYUCOS OPEN HOUSE A fun and festive Downtown Cayucos tradition of evening shopping, dining, and merriment along Ocean Ave. Local businesses stay open late to host visitors. The Cayucos Lioness Club will be providing refreshments. Dec. 9, 5-8 p.m. cayucoschamber.com/christmasin-cayucos. Cayucos, N. Ocean Ave. and D St., Cayucos.

DISCOVER GIFTS OF WHIMSY AND WONDER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Enjoy Larry Le Brane’s Holiday art and gifts at Costa Gallery in November and December. Explore drawings, paintings, sculpture and functional fused glass, along with work by 20 West Coast artists. They wrap and ship gifts, too. Stop by for seasonal treats and surprises. Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free admission. 559-799-9632. facebook.com/ costagallery. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

GIFTY UNDER FIFTY ALL YEAR ROUND Costa Gallery is gearing up for the holiday season. Check out a seasonal collection of art.

Thursdays-Sundays. through Dec. 31 Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos, 559-799-9632.

SLO CAL OPEN AT MORRO BAY Visit site to find out more about this World Surf League event. Dec. 4-10 worldsurfleague.com/.

Morro Rock, Coleman Drive, Morro Bay.

Special Events ...................13 Holidays in shelters ..........14 Off-centered cheer ............16 Fundraisers........................18 Stage ................................20 Music.................................22 Art .....................................26 Kid Stuff ............................27 Outdoors ..........................27

IMMERSIVE IMAGINATION Season Two of Nature Nights at the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden will debut on Nov. 17 and run on Friday and Saturday evenings through Dec. 31. Select nights of this outdoor light display program will feature live music from the Jingle Belles, B & The Hive, and other participating acts.

Tickets are available in advance at my805tix.com. The San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is located at 3450 Dairy Creek Road, San Luis Obispo.

—C.W.

SPECIAL EVENTS SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS BUBBLE BASH The second annual sparkling wine and champagne festival in Pico Garden. Local purveyors also featured. Dec. 9, 1-4 p.m. exploretock.com. Pico Los Alamos, 458 Bell St., Los Alamos.

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY Visitors embark on a magical holiday light drive-through experience at the Elks Event Center with displays presented by local businesses and families.

Fridays, Saturdays. through Dec. 24 elksrec.com. Elks Event Center, 4040 Highway 101, Santa Maria.

CHRISTMAS ON THE TRAIL Spend the weekend with 10 wineries along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. Passport is your ticket to 20 pours of wine from any of the 10 participating wineries. Dec. 2 and Dec. 3 santamariavalley.com. Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, Foxen Canyon Rd., Santa Maria.

LIVE PRO WRESTLING: UNPLUGGED Features “Eye Candy” Richie Slade vs. former Impact Wrestling Superstar and 805 local “Outlandish” Zicky Dice. More wrestlers set to appear as well.

Dec. 8, 6:30-9:30 p.m. eventbrite.com. Santa Maria Veterans Memorial Building, 313 West Tunnell Street, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY BUELLTON WINTER FEST Events held throughout the day, starting with Breakfast with Santa at the Buellton Recreation Center. The Holiday Village at Village Park will feature 20 tons of snow. Dec. 3 christmas.buellton.org/. Buellton Recreation Center, 301 2nd St., Buellton.

A COWBOY CHRISTMAS Hosted by Old West Events, in conjunction with SYV Horseback Rides. A portion of ticket sales benefit the Santa Barbara Youth Collective. Features visits with Santa, a hot cocoa bar, petting zoo, bounce house, snacks, beer/ wine, and more. Nov. 24-Dec. 23 syvcowboychristmas.com/.

River View Park, 151 Sycamore Dr., Buellton.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS FESTIVAL This all-ages event will not only allow guests to stroll the garden through a maze of lights, it will also feature pictures with Santa, falling snow, merchant and food vendors, and beer and wine for adults. Dec. 1, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Dec. 2, 5:30-8:30 p.m. and Fridays-Sundays, 5:30-8:30 p.m. through Dec. 17 discoverbuellton.com. Santa Ynez Botanic Garden, 151 Sycamore Drive, Buellton.

JULEFEST MAKERS MARKET Fashioned after traditional European night markets, the Solvang Julefest Makers Market will feature a row of crafters and local artisans offering one-of-aCOURTESY PHOTO BY MIKE LAAN kind holiday gift ideas, seasonal treats, and more, at an open-air Christmas market under the stars. Dec. 6, 5-7 p.m. solvangusa. com. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.

OLDE FASHIONED CHRISTMAS Start the holiday season by experiencing the warm and friendly small-town fun of an Olde Fashioned Christmas. Visit Open House events, experience snow, and treats and deals at various shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms. Dec. 2, 2-7 p.m. losolivosca.com/olde-fashionedchristmas/. Downtown Los Olivos, Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

SOLVANG JULEFEST 2023 Solvang’s Danish-style holiday celebration features some new facets and fun-filled events, and runs throughout the festive season. Nov. 24-Jan. 6 solvangusa. com. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.

SOLVANG PARK LIGHT AND MUSIC SHOW Every evening during Solvang Julefest, Solvang Park will come alive with all that sparkles and shines. Enjoy a 10-minute light and music display on the hour each night. Nov. 24-Jan. 6 solvangusa.com.

Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.

LOMPOC / VANDENBERG FOUNDING DAY AT LA PURISIMA MISSION Held in the historic main church of La Purísima Mission to celebrate the founding of the mission. Dec. 8 explorelompoc.com. La Purisima Mission, 2295 Purisima Mission, Lompoc.

SEA-SONS GREETINGS AT CABRILLO HIGH SCHOOL AQUARIUM The aquarium will be decorated with holiday decorations to create a fun, themed environment for everyone to enjoy while learning about the species in the facility. Dec. 6, 6-8 p.m. explorelompoc.com. Cabrillo High School, 4350 Constellation Rd., Lompoc, 742-2900.

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE Enjoy touring a lavishly decorated 1875 Victorian home; presented by the Lompoc Valley Historical Society. Nov. 24, Nov. 25, Dec. 2 and Dec. 9 Lompoc Valley Historical Society, 207 N. L St., Lompoc, lompochistory.org.

SAN LUIS OBISPO GOLDEN DECADES HOLIDAY PARTY Celebrate the holidays with a ‘50s-themed party. Jump back in time to poodle skirts, leather jackets, and your favorite music. Seniors ages 55 and up can enjoy a classic ‘50s-themed meal, holiday-themed activities,

NORTH SLO COUNTY CHRISTMAS AT THE RANCH Features the enchanting Pacific Coast Railroad’s Jingle Bell Express. Visit Santa’s barn to sip hot chocolate and sit with Santa. Be spellbound by a magic show with Andy Morris. Nov. 24-Dec. 17 my805tix.com. Santa Margarita Ranch, 9000 Yerba Buena Ave, Santa Margarita.

COWGIRL CHRISTMAS A country Christmas boutique. With more than 200 booths in one location. Nov. 24, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Nov. 25, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. my805tix.com. Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

HOLIDAY AT THE FARMSTEAD Celebrate the season with tons of holiday fun, including opportunities for a holiday photo moment, to decorate sugar cookies, enjoy a “sleigh ride,” sip on wine, and more. Dec. 2, 3-6 p.m. Free. 805-434-5607. onxwines. com/events/holiday-at-the-farmsteads/. ONX Estate Vineyard, 1200 Paseo Excelsus, Templeton.

HOLIDAY MAGIC AT THE ZOO The zookeepers have stepped in as Santa’s elves this year. Santa will be at the zoo too. Dec. 16, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Charles Paddock Zoo, 9100 Morro Rd., Atascadero.

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AT ATELIER 708 The venue is so thankful for the support of collectors, students, and friends.

“You’re the ones who make it possible for us to continue creating.” See art by Janice Pluma, Kim Snyder, David Butz, and Stephanie Wilbanks. Dec. 2, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Atelier 708, 708D Paso Robles St., Paso Robles, 805-423-8939.

HOLIDAY SIP N’ SKETCH Enjoy a holly jolly holiday-inspired Sip n’ Sketch. Bring your own supplies or borrow some at the venue and sketch or paint alongside Studios artists while sipping wine selected from a library collection. Dec. 16, 6-9 p.m. $20.

805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org/events/december-sip-nsketch/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

MID-STATE FAIR WINTER MARKET Features local crafters and artisans selling handmade and unique items. Find jewelry, apparel, fashion accessories, home décor, health and beauty products, art, antiques, handmade eats, used items, and more.

Dec. 8, 12-4 p.m., Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Dec. 10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-239-0655. midstatefair.com. Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

WINTER WONDERLAND Downtown Atascadero will be transformed into a magical snowy paradise, with more than 75 tons of snow. Features snow pile areas for kids. Dec. 8, 5-9 p.m.

Sunken Gardens, 6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero.

THANKSGIVING EVENTS SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS SANTA MARIA’S 27TH ANNUAL TURKEY TROT FUN RUN The City of Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department invites the public to get in shape before the “Big Feast.” Turkey Trot race starts at 9 a.m. Kids 1-Mile Fun Run starts at 9:45 a.m. Check-in starts at 8 a.m. Proceeds benefit People for Leisure and Youth

(PLAY). Nov. 18, 8 a.m. raceplace.com. Santa Maria River Levee Trailhead, N. Preisker Lane, Santa Maria.

THANKSGIVING BRUNCH Features a carving station, omelet station, waffle bar, hot dishes, seafood, salads, bottomless mimosas, and more. Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. santamariainn.com.

Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY SOLVANG’S 12TH ANNUAL TURKEY TROT 5K RUN/WALK Run for fun. All ages welcome. Proceeds to benefit a local charity. Nov. 23, 10 a.m. $25 registration. 805-688-7529. cityofsolvang.com.

Sunny Fields Park, 900 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang.

LOMPOC / VANDENBERG 2023 LOMPOC TURKEY TROT Includes the Turkey Trot 3-Mile Fun Run and Kids Turkey Dash. Hosted by Lompoc Parks and Recreation. All ability levels are encouraged to participate. Nov. 19, 11 a.m. 805-875-8100. cityoflompoc.com. River Park, Highway 246 and Sweeney Road, Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY AVILA BEACH TURKEY TROT To raise awareness about hunger in SLO County and funds that provide critical protein and nutrition to those in need. Create a team to fundraise with your flock and amplify your impact. Nov. 23, 8:30 a.m. slofoodbank.org. Avila Beach Promenade, 404 Front St., Avila Beach.

PISMO BEACH TURKEY TROT To raise awareness about hunger in SLO County and funds that provide critical protein and nutrition to those in need. Create a team to fundraise with your flock and amplify your impact. Nov. 23, 8:30 a.m. slofoodbank.org. Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, Pismo Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO SLO FOOD BANK TURKEY TROT (VIRTUAL) Walk, run, or hike on your own or with family and closest friends at a location. Help raise awareness about hunger in SLO County and funds that provide critical nutrition to those in need. Nov. 23 slofoodbank.org. Online.

PARADES SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS OLD TOWN ORCUTT CHRISTMAS PARADE A holiday favorite since 1961. Originally started by the volunteer fire department, the parade remains a small town afternoon event, which includes floats, cars, animals, bands, and the parade’s special guest, Santa.

Dec. 9, noon orcuttchristmasparade.org. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.

SANTA MARIA PARADE OF LIGHTS Presented by the Rotary Clubs of Santa Maria and Nipomo, the Parade of Lights is a hometown holiday tradition focused on winter holidays and the spirit of giving. Dec. 2, 5:20 p.m. smparadeoflights.org/. Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY SOLVANG JULEFEST PARADE This year’s Julefest Parade theme: “My favorite Christmas Movie.” Parade floats, marching bands, and more travel along the village streets. Dec. 2, 11 a.m. solvangusa.com. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.

LOMPOC / VANDENBERG LOMPOC CHRISTMAS PARADE Participants and spectators of the parade are invited to gather at Centennial Park afterwards for the announcement of parade winners, as well as the lighting of the community Christmas tree, and a chance to visit with Santa. Dec. 1, 6 p.m. cityoflompoc.com. Old Town Lompoc, H and I St., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY GROVER BEACH HOLIDAY PARADE Submit an application for this 56th annual Parade that traverses Grand Avenue from Oak Park to 9th Street. Or plan to line the streets to enjoy this fun community event. Seadline is Friday, Nov. 17. Dec. 2, 10-11 a.m. 805-473-4580. groverbeach.org. City of Grover Beach, 154 S 8th St., Grover Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO 47TH ANNUAL DOWNTOWN SLO HOLIDAY PARADE One of the Central Coast’s largest parades. Enjoy floats, marching bands, dancers, and more. Dec. 1, 7-9 p.m. Downtown San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY LIGHTED BOAT PARADE Fishing, leisure, and yachting community take to the water with decorated boats with dazzling lights and holiday cheer. Dec. 2, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. morrobay.org.

Embarcadero Morro Bay, 714 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.

TREE & MENORAH LIGHTINGS SANTA YNEZ VALLEY LOS OLIVOS CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING Takes place by the flagpole in the middle of town, with cookies and cocoa available for guests. Dec. 2, 6 p.m. losolivosca.com/olde-fashionedchristmas/. Downtown Los Olivos, Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

SOLVANG TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY Kick off this holiday season with Solvang’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Features dancers and ballerinas, other live entertainment, and caroling.

SPECIAL EVENTS continued page 18

www.santamariasun.com • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • Sun • 13

Holidays in shelters

PHOTO COURTESY OF GOOD SAMARITAN SHELTER

Good Samaritan Shelter provides a variety of events this holiday season for individuals experiencing homelessness

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

T

he holiday season can be especially difficult for individuals experiencing homelessness, said Kirsten Cahoon with Good Samaritan Shelter.

“Some of our clients are traumatized by the holidays because of years of abuse or substance use, and they were [exacerbated] during the holidays,” said Cahoon, Good Sam’s director of homeless services. “Some of them don’t have a positive experience around the holidays, and for them, they need a safe space during that time of year and build new memories with a new community.”

Every year, Good Samaritan Shelter hosts a variety of events during the holiday season to bring joy to their clients in shelter services and the unsheltered population of Santa Barbara County.

Festivities kick off with the turkey drive, one of Good Sam’s fundraising events that starts on Nov. 14, she said.

In partnership with KCOY, Good Sam gathers turkeys, nonperishable items, and cash donations that will go to the Santa Maria location to help feed the folks in shelter programming for a Thanksgiving meal. Good Sam also has a Lompoc turkey drive where all the proceeds go toward its Lompoc shelter and programming, Cahoon said.

Stepping into the gift-giving season, Good Sam will then host its toy drive on Dec. 19 at the Stowasser Buick GM car dealership to gather toys, which will later be used for Good Sam’s Christmas store, where clients can pick out toys for their children.

“I always think about how tough it would be to be a parent in a homeless shelter and not be able to provide the same thing that housed individuals would be able to provide,” Cahoon said. “Because of where they’re at and the struggles they are enduring, a lot of parents don’t get those opportunities.”

As of Nov. 8, there were 58 children in the Santa Maria shelter and 38 in the Lompoc shelter.

Good Samaritan’s holiday events

• Toy Drive: Dec. 19 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Stowasser Buick GMC, 600 Betteravia Road • Parade of Lights: Dec. 2 at the Santa Maria Elks Lodge, 1309 N. Bradley Road • Christmas in the Country display, a drive through holiday experience: Nov. 24 to Dec. 25 at the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo and Parade, 2325 Skyway Drive, Suite H • The Longest Night: Dec. 21 at Santa Maria City Hall, 110 E Cook St. • Good Samaritan Emergency Shelter Party: Dec. 14 • Christmas Toy Store for Good Samaritan Shelter Clients: Dec. 21 to 23

Cahoon added that Good Sam works to make the holidays special for children and families by coordinating craft nights, hosting a holiday party, leaving cookies out for Santa, and opening gifts on Christmas morning.

On Dec. 14, the shelter will have a snow day party for the clients to decorate the Christmas trees at both that Santa Maria and Lompoc shelters. As of Nov. 8, Good Sam was looking for a local business to donate snow so the children can see a winter wonderland—often for the first time.

“How can we as a community and agency ensure that our parents get to be a part of creating a positive experience at Christmas? We want to break the cycle of trauma and addiction and homelessness … we don’t want [them] to continue looking at the holidays as something traumatizing,” Cahoon said.

However, participation is always a choice, and clients don’t need to participate in the holiday activities, she added. All shelter programming is hosted in the dining hall, so people who choose not to participate in the festivities can stay in the shelter space.

“They always have a protected space if they choose to not be a part of things,” Cahoon said.

“We [make] sure we’re checking in on folks during the holidays more often to see if there are any changes in their mental health, and we can provide them with the services that they need.”

Good Sam works with the Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness to provide mental health services and can make referrals for any needed services or resources, she said.

For the unsheltered population in both Santa Maria and Lompoc, street outreach teams go out to meet individuals where they’re at, build relationships, and conduct assessments to see if they need medical or mental health assistance.

“It’s [about] making sure they know the clients well enough to see changes and be proactive in trying to make sure they get the help as quickly as they need it in our unsheltered population,” Cahoon said. “It’s statistically proven that the holidays are a higher time of overdoses and suicide just because of the trauma of being on the streets during the colder weather and during the holidays.”

Outreach teams are equipped with Narcan— opioid overdose reversing medication—mental health referral services, and warmer clothing to hand out, she said.

While most of the programming is geared toward clients in shelter programming, Good Sam tries to bring goodies and a Christmas meal to its warming centers that will be open as the

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HOLIDAY HELP: To make the holidays a more joyful time for clients in shelter programming, Good Samaritan Shelter hosts a variety of holiday events between November and December and is asking the public to donate food or toys for these celebrations.

weather gets colder to “make sure they feel that it’s Christmas as well,” she said.

“Always during this time of year, we’re collecting because we’re activating our warming shelters throughout the entire county; getting and making sure we have enough socks, warm blankets, and sweatshirts for those clients; and if anybody wants to come and provide a meal during the holidays they can touch base,” Cahoon said. “It’s a lot of people to feed—our Santa Maria campus serves about 115 meals a night—but if somebody wanted to come in, that would be greatly appreciated.”

To honor individuals experiencing homelessness who passed away in the last year, Good Sam hosts The Longest Night on Dec. 21 at Santa Maria City Hall, she said.

“That day is the winter solstice, so it’s the longest, coldest night of the year and they chose that to honor people,” Cahoon said.

As Good Sam has expanded its reach and services, running the Dignity Moves shelter in Santa Barbara and the new Hope Village in Santa Maria, Cahoon said there will always be an emphasis on making the holiday season a special and healing time for clients.

“Yes, we’ve been growing by leaps and bounds,” she said, “but as staff it’s one of our biggest focuses to ensure every single client feels the holiday spirit and know[s] that they are cared about and people are thinking about them.” m Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.

A Savior has been born

Living Nativity Dec. 10th, 5:00-6:00pm followed by “Las Posadas” at 6:00pm

Family Candlelight Service Christmas Eve: 7:00pm

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Off-centered cheer

PHOTO COURTESY OF LISA PRICE

Shake up your holiday table with showstopper dinners that aren’t just turkey or ham

BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL

Arroyo Grande Meat Company.

The bounty of ranch and seaside cultures make SLO and Santa Barbara counties a culinary playground for anyone who wants their holiday dinners to be something out of the ordinary.

No matter the holiday, there are plenty of food suppliers and curators in both counties who can help amp up your feast. If all else fails, there’s always Chinese food for takeout. Just remember to order ahead.

Take Price’s Christmas dinners, where Thanksgiving prime rib gives way to king crab legs. The dinners started in Sacramento 20 years ago for an “orphans’ Christmas” with friends who couldn’t go home for the holidays. Price splits her Costco crab legs lengthwise, drizzles them with garlic butter, and slowly roasts them in the oven.

Tablecloths gets swapped for newspaper sheets, and Price lays out bottles of wine, sourdough garlic bread, and bowls of salad.

“We have an absolute melee of crab shells flying around at Christmas, but everybody is satisfied PHOTO COURTESY OF WOODIN YOU LIKE TO PARTY with this amazing meal, and all you have to do is roll all the newspaper up and throw it in the trash when you’re done,” she said.

Want crabs and lobster tails from somewhere other than a supermarket? Pick out live ones and have them cooked, cracked, and served fresh at Giovanni’s Fish Market in Morro Bay, or take live crabs home to cook them yourself. Call (805) 772-2123 to place your order of Christmas crabs before the holiday rush.

Morro Bay’s Tognazzini’s Dockside Fish Market also dishes out fresh catches for holiday needs. Call (805) 772-8120 to preorder fresh seafood. Farther south, Olde Port Fish and Seafood Company in Grover Beach provides live Maine lobster, Dungeness crabs, and rock crab to purchase and steam. Other seafood options include oysters, halibut, scallops, and salmon. Call (805) 489-3474 to preorder.

For those who aren’t seafood lovers, shake up the American classics with a trip to Azteca Market in Atascadero. Established this June by Guatemalan Carolina Fuentes and her husband, Gabriel Zenteno, from Chiapas, Mexico, the family-run restaurant serves delicacies that fuse LOCAL BITES: Santa Maria-based Woodin both their backgrounds.

You Like To Party curates small bites from local Starting Dec. 1, customers can order a $15 vendors and creates custom charcuterie, down Guatemalan dish called pepián—chicken stewed to the woodwork. in a thick red sauce—that’s PHOTO COURTESY OF AZTECA MARKET traditionally enjoyed during Christmas. It’ll include chayote squash, green beans, and carrots.

The stew comes with white rice, refried beans, and tortillas. Make it a combo for $17 by adding a cup of ponche, a Guatemalan Christmas punch made with an assortment of fruits and spices. Place orders on DoorDash or walk into the restaurant on 7367 El Camino Real.

“These dishes are made by a traditional Guatemalan mom, and all she wants to do is feed you with love and doesn’t want you to be scared of food cooked by millions of other moms who have been cooking this for many years,” Fuentes DRINK UP: Atascadero’s Azteca Market will offer a Guatemalan fruit and Zenteno’s daughter, punch called ponche as a 16-ounce cup or as part of a traditional Amanda Morales, told the Latin American holiday meal come December.

Sun with a laugh.

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amily gatherings for Oceano resident Lisa Price and her folks rarely followed the traditional route.

Her dad wanted a party for his celebration of life. When he passed away, Price did just that. The family scattered his ashes at Pirate’s Cove and welcomed 100 people at Price’s house afterward with a taco truck and a margarita machine.

“Food at our house has never been all that normal,” Price said with a laugh.

So why should the holiday season be any different?

“Nobody in the family is wild about turkey, but we ate it for decades to be polite,” she said. “One year, my dad asked, ‘Would you rather have prime rib?’”

For 20 years since then, bovine won out over bird on their Thanksgiving table. Price, who lived in Orange County at the time, would purchase prime ribs from Stater Bros. Markets in Newport Beach and drive to San Luis Obispo County to her parents’ home. Now, she prefers Vons and the

16 • Sun • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

CRAB HAPPY: Twenty years ago, Oceano resident Lisa Price swapped Christmas ham and prime rib for king crab legs in garlic butter and hasn’t looked back.

Jason Oneal, the manager of J&R Natural Meats is game for different centerpiece dinners in more ways than one. Through the specialty meat and poultry company he runs, Oneal smokes a rabbit and a pound of elk loin for his family for Christmas.

While the smoked elk is cut into steaks and seared, Oneal smokes the rabbit until it reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

“It’s so tender, you could eat it without your teeth!” he said.

Oneal’s preferred Thanksgiving showstopper?

A smoked turducken. A smaller one he made last year took him three hours to smoke. Check out our sister paper New Times’ breakdown of the Franken-bird from last year’s Holiday Guide.

Set up in Paso Robles and Templeton, J&R Natural Meats offers lamb chops, lamb legs, duck, geese, and turkey, among other meats. Oneal told the Sun that turkey, duck, and goose are the main offerings for the holidays. Turkey orders must be placed on the website but call the Paso Robles branch at (805) 237-8100 or the Templeton one at (805) 434-5050 for everything else.

For those craving a less hands-on dinner experience, Santa Maria’s Woodin You Like To Party charcuterie company might be the answer. Founder Kelsey Jeanne Woodin described her business as the “one-stop shop” that curates meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and other small bites from local vendors.

The company even does woodwork, creating custom charcuterie boards in the process.

From November onward, Woodin You Like To Party offers a 10 percent holiday discount on orders along with a Secret Santa special in December.

“A lot of the orders will come with thank you cards for supporting local businesses,” Woodin said. “A few of them will include a free charcuterie deal for up to a $50 value.”

For a traveling fee, she’s ready to produce her charcuterie creations for holiday events. Call (805) 868-1858 and check out woodinyouliketoparty. com/-charcuterie for more information.

Woodin extends her art into her own Thanksgiving and Christmas plans as well.

“I normally make a board if we’re going to someone else’s place,” she said. “But at home, I have a 12-foot wrap island that I cover with charcuterie!” m Reach Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal at brajagopal@newtimesslo.com.

Everybody Can Dance & the Santa Maria Civic Ballet Present

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ClarkCenter.org

805-489-9444

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NOVEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023

SPECIAL EVENTS from page 13

FILE PHOTO BY MALEA MARTIN

Dec. 1, 5-6:30 p.m. solvangusa.com. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.

FUNDRAISERS

2023

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING Join the City of Grover Beach as it lights the Holiday tree. Enjoy live caroling, cocoa, and cookies.

Dec. 8, 5-6 p.m. Free. 805-473-4580. groverbeach.org. Ramona Garden Park Center, 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS ALTRUSA’S ANNUAL MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TREES FUNDRAISER The Altrusa group will bring in 30-40 trees and allow businesses and groups to decorate them with a theme. Proceeds from raffle tickets will benefit local scholarships. Nov. 25-Dec. 10 kiasm.com/altrusas-annualmagical-christmas-trees.htm. Santa Maria Kia, 2175 Bradley Ave., Santa Maria.

SAN LUIS OBISPO HANUKKAH DOWNTOWN The menorah lighting on each of the eight nights of Hanukkah will be hosted by a different local Jewish organization, on the steps of Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Dec. 7-15, 5 p.m. 805-426-5465. jccslo.com/. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

ALTRUSA’S FESTIVAL OF TREES For the purchase of a $1 raffle ticket, each tree winner will take home a fabulously decorated tree and gifts, and support scholarships and grants throughout the Santa Maria Valley. Nov. 24-Dec. 9 santamariatowncenter.com. Santa Maria Town Center, 142 Town Center East, Santa Maria.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION Come enjoy the lighting of the Morro Bay City Park tree for the holidays. Activities start at 3:30 p.m. Tree lighting held at 5 p.m. Dec. 1 morrobay.org. Morro Bay City Park, Corner of Morro Bay Blvd. and Harbor St., Morro Bay.

FAIRS SANTA YNEZ VALLEY SECOND SATURDAY OPEN AIR MARKET: LOS ALAMOS A carefully curated open air artisan and farm market. Features great vintage finds, handwoven and hand dyed textiles, handspun yarn, organic body care products, and locally grown organic eats. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805722-4338. Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY ARTISAN’S FAIRE This annual scholarship fundraiser features a wonderful variety of original artwork and handmade goods from local artisans. Also features the popular Artisan Cafe, serving lunch and homemade pie, and a raffle prize. A fun day to start off the holiday season. Nov. 18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free to the public. 805-363-4084. womansclubofarroyogrande.com.

Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande.

TRILOGY CLAY BUDDIES ANNUAL HOLIDAY POTTERY SALE A great opportunity to find that one-of-a-kind gift. Items include functional ware, garden art, home decor, and more. Also includes beautifully decorated bake goods by members of the Trilogy

805-756-4849. pacslo.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

SHARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING The Cabrillo High School Aquarium in Lompoc hosts its SEAsons Greetings event on Dec. 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. The aquarium will be adorned with holiday decorations and guests will have the chance to learn about the facility’s various species. Visit explorelompoc.com for more info on this upcoming holiday program. Cabrillo High School is located at 207 N. L St., Lompoc.

—C.W. Service Club. Nov. 26, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Trilogy at Monarch Dunes, 1640 Trilogy Pkwy, Nipomo.

NEW YEAR’S EVENTS SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS NOON YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION DANCE The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens Club presents a Noon Year’s celebration featuring Riptide Big Band with vocalists Bob Nations and Mitch Latting.

Free thanks to grant funding from Community Foundation of SLO County. Dec. 31, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 775-813-5186. RiptideBB.com.

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

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SANTA YNEZ VALLEY SOLVANG TREE BURN A powerful fire safety demonstration at the start of the New Year, heralding the end of the Solvang Julefest celebration. Supervised by the Santa Barbara County Fire Department. With live entertainment, plus refreshments for purchase. Jan. 5, 5-7 p.m. visitsyv.com. Old Mission Santa Ines, 1760 Mission Drive, Solvang.

SAN LUIS OBISPO OPERASLO: NEW YEAR’S EVE ON BROADWAY Ring in the New Year with a citywide arts celebration gala featuring some of the best Broadway, opera, and dance selections with a special tribute to Stephen Sondheim. Dec. 31, 7-9 p.m. $52.

DINNER FOR A CAUSE: GIVING TUESDAY BANQUET 2023 Features dinner, dancing, and more. 100 percent of all proceeds benefit the 5Cities Homeless Coalition. Nov. 28, 4:30-8 p.m. my805tix.com. Pismo Beach Golf Course, 25 West Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO REINDEER RUN 2023 Reindeer Run is a 5K fun run that promotes wellness and healthy lifestyles among youth and families in San Luis Obispo County. The non-profit youth development program, SLO County Friday Night Live, is raising money for senior scholarships. Dec. 9, 9-11 a.m. $25. 805-7814289. slofnl.com/reindeer-run. Mitchell Park, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo.

SLOCO’S GIFTING TREE For every gift certificate purchased at SLOCO through end of December, the venue will donate to WeForest and plant a tree in your name, a gift that keeps on giving. Help the host reach its goal of planting 300 trees by the end of the year. Mondays-Sundays. through Dec. 31 Donations support WeForest. 805-439-2515. slocohealth.com. SLOCO Health + Wellness, 1957 Santa Barbara Ave., San Luis Obispo.

HOLIDAY EVENTS continued page 20

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HOLIDAY EVENTS from page 18

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ORCUTT CHRISTMAS PARADE

STAGE

ALL YOU NEED IS GLOVE

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

The 2023 Old Town Orcutt Christmas Parade will be held on Dec. 9, starting at noon. A holiday tradition in Old Town Orcutt since 1961, the parade will feature a lineup of colorful floats, decorated vehicles, local school marching bands, and more. Visit orcuttchristmasparade. org to find out more about the parade and its participating floats.

—C.W.

ELF: THE MUSICAL Based on the classic comedy film, adapted for the stage with music by Matthew Sklar and lyrics by Chad Beguelin. Through Dec. 23 pcpa.org. Marian Theatre, 800 S. College Dr., Santa Maria.

RADIUM GIRLS: READERS THEATRE Based on the harrowing true story of female factory workers in the early 20th century, this ensemble piece explores their struggle for justice against a corporation that knowingly put their lives at risk. Through Nov. 18 my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA CLAUS CONQUERS THE MARTIANS Presented by Orcutt Community Theater. Dec. 1-17 my805tix.com. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, Santa Maria.

WIT: READERS THEATRE Written by Margaret Edson, this Pulitzer Prize-winning drama is a profound exploration of life, death, and the human condition. Through Nov. 19 my805tix.com.

Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY LAUGH THERAPY: STAND-UP COMEDY 2023 Enjoy stand-up comedy from headliner comics from across the country. Nov. 29, 8-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, 805-686-4785.

THE SYVHS THEATRE GROUP PRESENTS RADIUM GIRLS The Theatre Group of Santa Ynez High School presents its fall production. Directed by Jeff McKinnon. Presented Thursdays through Saturdays. Nov. 30, 7-9:30 p.m., Dec. 1, 7-9:30 p.m., Dec. 2, 7-9:30 p.m., Dec. 7, 7-9:30 p.m., Dec. 8, 7-9:30 p.m. and Dec. 9, 7-9:30 p.m. Students $5; Adults $10. 805-688-6487. syvuhsd.org.

Santa Ynez High School Little Theater, 2975 CA-246, Santa Ynez.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA See Scrooge find his Christmas spirit and enjoy other tales during the Melodrama’s annual holiday production. Nov. 17-Dec. 31 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

STORYTELLERS Flex Performing Arts Presents this original dance and theater production. Imogen is the daughter of a talented author, who is tragically struggling to find her voice.

While dealing with her own heartbreak, she wants to help

2023

her mother rediscover her love of storytelling. Dec. 9, 1-4 & 6:30-9:30 p.m. and Dec. 10, 3-6 p.m. $35-$75. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/flex-storytellers/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS Step into the enchanting world of AGHS Theatre Company’s production of the classic tale. Join Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger on a thrilling adventure as they navigate the rivers and meadows of the English countryside. Enjoy toetapping tunes, captivating characters, and more. Dec. 8, 7-10 p.m., Dec. 9, 7-10 p.m., Dec. 10, 2-5 p.m., Dec. 14, 7-10 p.m., Dec. 15, 7-10 p.m. and Dec. 16, 7-10 p.m. $14-$20. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter. org/shows/aghs-theatre-the-wind-in-the-willows/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO BALLET THEATRE SAN LUIS OBISPO PRESENTS THE SNOW QUEEN Set in Scandinavia in the late 1700s, Hans Christen Andersen’s classic fairy tale that inspired Disney’s Frozen comes alive. Enjoy a holiday treat fit for the whole family. Dec. 15, 7-9 p.m., Dec. 16, 7-9 p.m. and Dec. 17, 2-4 p.m. $32-$55. 805-756-4849.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: A STAGED READING Described as a heartwarming Christmas story for all ages. Dec. 15-17 bytheseaproductions.org/. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay. A RAINBOW HOLIDAY Directed by Samuel Gottlieb. Presented by

By The Sea Productions. Nov. 17-Dec. 3 my805tix.com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.

NUTCRACKERS SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS THE NUTCRACKER AND GUESTS Presented by KleinDanceArts.

Dec. 16, 3:45 & 7 p.m. 855-222-2849. Ethel Pope Auditorium, 901 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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

A CHRISTMAS STORY Jean Shepherd’s memoir of growing up in the Midwest in the 1940s follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher, and even Santa Claus. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through Dec. 23 $15-$40. 805-7862440. slorep.org. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

JANE LYNCH: A SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS A fun fresh twist on the Christmas specials of the ‘50s and ‘60s when harmonies were tight and swing was the thing. Starring Emmy and Golden Globe winner Jane Lynch, Kate Flannery, Tim Davis, and The Tony Guerrero Quintet. Dec. 17 $49-$79. 805-756-6556.

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

NOCHEBUENA: A CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Experience the vibrant spirit of Mexico’s Christmas season with an all-star cast featuring Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles and Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar. Dec. 13, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $32.40-$79.

805-756-4849. pacslo.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

DIANE ROSE ZINK’S NUTCRACKER Everybody Can DANCE and the Santa Maria Civic Ballet present Diane Rose Zink’s Nutcracker. Described as a Central Coast Tradition for more than 35 years. Artistic Director Diane Rose Zink has continued to enhance and embellish her production of Tchaikovsky’s glorious ballet over the years. Nov. 25, 7-9:30 p.m. and Nov. 26, 3-5:30 p.m. $20-$25. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ecdbsmcb-nutcracker/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

WORLD BALLET SERIES: THE NUTCRACKER Step into the whimsical magic of one of the world’s most beloved fairy tales.

Performed live by a multinational cast of 50 professional ballet dancers gathered to bring this beloved holiday tradition to life.

Nov. 28, 7-10 p.m. $30-$85. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/ shows/world-ballet-series-the-nutcracker/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO 27TH ANNUAL NORTH COUNTY NUTCRACKER Presented by the North County Dance and Performing Arts Foundation.

Described as a “Storybook Ballet.” Dec. 1-3 Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, 805-756-7113.

CIVIC BALLET OF SLO PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER For more than 40 years, the Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo has presented this holiday classic. Lori Lee Silvaggio’s The Nutcracker is filled with all the pageantry, magic, and wonder that have made this

STAGE continued page 22

The magic of

CHRISTMAS

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m Devouring turkey and other Thanksgiving fixings.

SantaMariaSun.com

m Pouncing on Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. m The Secret Santa and/or white elephant gift exchanges at my workplace. m Gathering around the Festivus pole for the Airing of Grievances.

20 • Sun • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

OUT OF THIS WORLD! 2023

Celebrate the Holidays in Downtown San Luis Obispo 47th Annual

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Holiday Parade

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Friday, December 1, 2023 • 7 PM

Small Business Saturday

Free & Family-Friendly 80+ Entries & Floats Rain or Shine

Saturday, November 25, 2023

Unique Shops & Dining Holiday Lights Around Town

Lights, sights, & family fun in Mission Plaza

Opens Friday, November 24, 2023

Santa’s House Classic Carousel Musical Light Show Dazzling Displays

SLOHolidays.com @DowntownSLO

@ExperienceDowntownSLO

1772

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH HOLIDAY PLAZA PRESENTED BY

SANTA’S HOUSE PRESENTED BY

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SPECIAL THANKS TO

www.santamariasun.com • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • Sun • 21

NOVEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023

STAGE from page 20 one of the most enduring holiday traditions around the globe.

Dec. 8, 7-9 p.m., Dec. 9, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. and Dec. 10, 2-4 p.m. $30$78. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS 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. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925-0951.

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

LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR Enjoy live music most Fridays and Saturdays. Call venue or check website to find out who’s performing. Fridays, Saturdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

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

OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. 805-478-6198.

Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.

THE SANTA MARIA PHILHARMONIC’S 10TH ANNUAL YOUTH SHOWCASE A recital by audition for classical musicians ages 8 to 18, at Shepard Hall in the Santa Maria Public Library. Jan. 7, 3-4 p.m. Free. 805-925 0412. smphilharmonic.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS: WINE, MUSIC, AND MORE Enjoy a flight of six distinctively different age-worthy wines while listening to live entertainment presented by a local band, musician, or disc jockey. Features sweet treats from Santa Maria food vendors and local artisans. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. through Nov. 26 Free. 805-937-8463. instagram.com/ cottonwoodcanyonwinery/. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion 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

PHOTO COURTESY OF TWIST ON TAYLOR

THE GIFT OF SWIFT The Santa Maria Fairpark presents Twist on Taylor, live on concert, on Dec. 9, starting at 8:30 p.m. Based in Las Vegas and Southern California, this Taylor Swift tribute act is led by singer Sara Jessica Rhodes. Tickets to the show are available in advance at my805tix. com. The Santa Maria Fairpark is located at 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria.

—C.W.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY LEONID & FRIENDS Capturing the spirit, musicality, and fire of American supergroup Chicago, Leonid & Friends replicates the band’s complex arrangements amazingly note for note.

Comprised of 11 of the finest musicians in Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, and Belarus, this remarkable group has performed multiple sold-out U.S. tours. Nov. 19, 7-10 p.m. $36-$75. 805-4899444. clarkcenter.org/shows/leonid-and-friends/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

THREE MARTINI LUNCH AND THE JAZZ ALLEY REVIEW: PRESENTED BY BASIN STREET REGULARS Enjoy some “Hot Swingin’ Jazz” at the Basin Street Regulars’ Sunday afternoon concert. Food and drinks will be sold. Nov. 19, 12-4 p.m. Free; donations appreciated. 805-937-2419. my805tix.com. Rib Line, 359 W Grand Ave, suite B, Grover Beach.

2023

Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

TAYLOR SWIFT TRIBUTE BAND Led by Sara Jessica Rhodes, Twist of Taylor is an ensemble dedicated to delivering an authentic and captivating Taylor Swift experience to audiences in the world’s entertainment capital and everywhere else.

Dec. 9, 8:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria.

UKULELE JAM SESSIONS This is a drop-in program. Play melodies and many songs with other musicians. Baritone ukuleles are available to use or bring your own. Music and music strands provided. Mondays, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. 805-925-0951.

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

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

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

22 • Sun • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

LOMPOC / VANDENBERG BLACK SABBATHA LIVE A Black Sabbath tribute band. Dec. 2, 7-11 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

GRUPO RADIANTE DE FAUSTO CRUZ LIVE Presented by FCB and Uribe Entertainment Inc. With Grupo S.D.L. and DJ Kazanova.

Nov. 18, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

GUERRA DE BANDA LIVE Presented by FCB and Uribe Entertainment Inc. Nov. 25, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

A MAGICAL NIGHT WITH KISS AND AC/DC TRIBUTES Featuring the extraordinary talent of Dressed to Kill (Kiss tribute band) and special guest Colonel Angus (AC/DC tribute band).

All ages welcome. Nov. 17, 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

AFRICAN CHILDREN’S CHOIR Includes African and American hymns and songs, skits, and more. Nov. 29, 7-8:30 p.m. Free will offering. 805-543-8327. zionslo.com. Zion Lutheran Church, 1010 E Foothill Blvd., San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY ARAB MUSIC ENSEMBLE FALL CONCERT The Arab Music Ensemble presents a wide range of folk and popular music from Arab society as well as selected seminal pieces from the historically interconnected areas of Southwest Asia and North Africa. With acclaimed guest artists and the Arab Music Ensemble Dance Troupe. Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. $15 and $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/ame/.

Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY FALL JAZZ CONCERT Known to the world as America’s original art form, jazz has several subgenres which will be showcased at this concert by student musicians from a variety of majors. Nov. 17 $20 general; $10 students. 805-7564849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/jazz/. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY SYMPHONY FALL CONCERT WITH THE HARMONY MAGNET ACADEMY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The Cal Poly Symphony welcomes the Harmony Magnet Academy Symphony Orchestra in a program that includes selections it will play, plus a side-by-side performance of John Corigliano’s “Voyage for String Orchestra,” then performances of Valerie

MUSIC continued page 24

SPECIAL PUBLICATION

The Santa Maria Sun is looking for new office space in Santa Maria, 700-800 sq. ft.

If you have or know someone who has office space available please contact Bob Rucker at bob@newtimesslo.com.

LAST-MINUTE GIFT GUIDE BOOK YOUR AD BY: December 8 PUBLICATION DATE: December 14

It’s everyone’s last chance to find the perfect gift and your last chance to get the most out of your holiday marketing!

Get your last-minute gift ideas in front of our readers.

NORTHERN SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

(805) 347-1968 advertising@santamariasun.com www.santamariasun.com • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • Sun • 23

NOVEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023

MUSIC from page 22 Coleman’s “Umoja” and Antonín Dvorák’s lyrical “Symphony No. 8.” Dec. 3, 3 p.m. $15 and $20 general; $10 students.

805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

COMBOPALOOZA Check out eight combos bringing all their best from the semester in a mini festival of a concert. The Cuesta Combo program has often been recognized for its excellence and creativity. Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m. $5. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

CUESTA JAZZ ENSEMBLE WINTER CONCERT Enjoy a chance to come see the students shine in their element. Featuring a variety of big band music from big band classics, to quirky modern and a little groove. Dec. 9, 7:30 p.m. General Admission: $15; Student with ID: $10. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

FLOR DE TOLOACHE Coming back to SLO after their popular 2019 show, this Latin Grammy-winning all-female ensemble is revolutionizing traditional Latin American music with their edgy, versatile flair. Transcending culture and gender, they’ve enchanted global audiences with three albums and a fresh rock-inspired compilation. Nov. 28, 7:30-9 p.m. $28-$46. 805756-2787. calpolyarts.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

SAN LUIS OBISPO MASTER CHORALE PRESENTS “CHANTS ENCOUNTER” A performance including pieces from composers Arvo Pärt, W. A. Mozart, by 100-voice choir with full orchestra.

Nov. 19, 3-5 p.m. $10-$60. 805-538-3311. slomasterchorale.org.

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

SLO COUNTY TRUMPET ALLIANCE WINTER CONCERT The SLO County Trumpet Alliance closes out its season with a winter concert. The Fall 2023 CPAC season is sponsored by Joan G. Sargen in loving memory of Dr. Marie E. Rosenwasser. Dec. 17, 2 p.m. General Admission: $15; Student with ID: $10. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

VOCAL RECITAL IN PINK WITH TOURING ORCHESTRA OperaSLO is excited to return to the iconic Madonna Inn. This iconic San Luis Obispo venue comes to life with OperaSLO’s fantastic Resident and Guest artists accompanied by our 18-piece touring orchestra in an exciting journey through some of the greatest hits of musical theater and opera. Nov. 26, 1-4 p.m. $45. operaslo.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo.

SEASONAL MUSIC SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS FREE JAZZ CHRISTMAS CONCERT IN THE MALL Central City Swing, a 17-piece jazz band, will perform a free Christmas concert; a wide assortment of seasonal swing and jazz music.

Dec. 12, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. 805-922-7931. Santa Maria Town Center, 142 Town Center East, Santa Maria.

THE SANTA MARIA PHILHARMONIC: BAROQUE MASTERS SEASON CONCERT The Santa Maria Philharmonic Orchestra chamber players and Maestro Michael Nowak welcome one and all to a celebration of Baroque composers, a holiday season tradition for the Philharmonic. Dec. 1, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $45. 805925-0412. smphilharmonic.org. First United Methodist Church, 311 Broadway, Santa Maria.

TIMELESS HOLIDAYS Central Coast Harmony, a member of Sweet Adelines International, presents an early evening of music, fun and prizes at Lutheran Church of Our Savior. Dec. 9, 4-6 p.m. Free. 805-736-7572. Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 4725 S. Bradley Rd., Orcutt.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY SYV CHORALE CAROLERS AND SY JAZZ BAND Enjoy live music in conjunction with Los Olivos Olde Fashioned Christmas. Dec. 2, 5 p.m. losolivosca.com/olde-fashioned-christmas/. Downtown Los Olivos, Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

LOMPOC / VANDENBERG A POPS SEASON’S GREETINGS Presented by the Lompoc Pops Orchestra. Enjoy some performances of your favorite songs of the season. Dec. 3, 7-9 p.m. explorelompoc.com. First United Methodist Church, 925 N. F Street, Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY DONA NOBIS PACEM: WINTER CHORAL CONCERT SERIES VOCAL ARTS ENSEMBLE Vocal Arts Ensemble presents their Holiday concert series, Dona Nobis Pacem: Grant us Peace, a selection of classical, traditional and folk music at Trilogy Monarch Dunes in Nipomo. Nov. 29, 7-9 p.m. $30. 805-541-6797. vocalarts.org. Trilogy Monarch Dunes, 1690 Eucalyptus Road, 120.

HOLIDAY VIOLIN CONCERT: MISCHA LEFKOWITZ A special holiday violin concert, featuring Mischa Lefkowitz, virtuoso violinist, accompanied by pianist Susan Davies. Dec. 5, 6:30. my805tix.com. Trilogy at Monarch Dunes, 1640 Trilogy Pkwy, Nipomo.

KERRY IRISH PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS AN IRISH CHRISTMAS As seen on PBS. Join an award-winning cast of Riverdance principals and World Champion Dancers in a celebration of the great traditions of Christmas in Ireland: butter-making, chasing the wren on St. Stephen’s Day, drawing down the half door, and more. Dec. 22, 7-10 p.m. $40-$59. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/ shows/an-irish-christmas-2023/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

KIP, INC. PRESENTS THE SOUND OF CHRISTMAS SING-ALONG Sing your way into the season with holiday favorites. A fun-filled sing-along with orchestra and choir, and a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays with those you love. Featuring Emmy-nominated conductor Charles Fernandez, the Sound of Christmas Chamber Players and Choir, and narrator Sheelagh Cullen.

Dec. 23, 2-5 p.m. $35-$50. 805-4899444. clarkcenter.org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAL POLY ARTS

MELE KALIKIMAKA Christmas in Hawaii, an upcoming concert from ukulele maestro Jake Shimabukuro, will be held at the Performing Arts Center (PAC) in San Luis Obispo on Dec. 19, from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Admission to the event, presented by Cal Poly Arts, ranges from $34 to $56. Visit calpolyarts.org to find out more. The PAC is located at 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

—C.W.

CAL POLY CHOIRS’ HOLIDAY KALEIDOSCOPE The seventh annual Holiday Kaleidoscope, a concert which has become Central Coast tradition.

All four Cal Poly choral ensembles will perform, and will share the stage with the Cuesta College choirs, as well as the Cal Poly Wind Ensemble. Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m. $15 and $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. music. calpoly.edu/calendar/choirs/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

CHRISTMAS FROM PARIS WITH LOVE Enjoy a Mo Betta holiday celebration; the third annual Christmas show. Dec. 12, 7:30-9 p.m. my805tix.com/. The Penny, 664 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo.

CUESTA CHOIRS: HEALING HOLIDAYS CONCERT Join to relax, unwind, de-stress, and gear up for your winter holiday season.

The Cuesta Chamber Singers and Voce will charm and inspire you with holiday chestnuts, soothing choral music, and peppy jazz

Christmas classics. Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m. Admission: $15. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

CUESTA WIND ENSEMBLE WINTER CONCERT Take a mid-week break from the holiday hustle and bustle and relax in the beautiful CPAC, while enjoying an evening of great classical music with the Cuesta Wind Ensemble. Music by Bach and several others. A little holiday music is likely to be included. Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m. General Admission: $15; Student with ID: $10. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

DECK THE HALLS WITH HARMONY The San Luis Obispo Wind Orchestra is delighted to announce its highly anticipated annual

MUSIC continued page 26

For the Love of Music

Presents:

BRIAN ASHER ALHADEFF Artistic Director & Conductor

a Pops

Season’s Greetings www.LompocPopsOrchestra.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023 at 7:00 PM First United Methodist Church • 925 North F Street GENERAL ADMISSION $25 • STUDENTS WITH ID $5

Children 12 & Under FREE • For more info call (805) 733-1796 TICKETS OUTLETS: The Box Shop • Lompoc Valley Florist • Sunset Auto And at the door on the night of the concert.

24 • Sun • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

Season Passes Make Great Holiday Gifts!

Don’t Miss This Year’s Holiday Extravaganza!

NER DIVISION DIVISION

BURGERS, BREWS & BAGS

Cornhole Tournament

O TOP 3 BASED OF ENTRANTS

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UTSIDE FOOD OR ALCOHOL ALLOWED

OUR 4 ANNUAL FRIENDSGIVING TH

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BURGERS, BREWSThat’ AND BURGERS, Don’tBREWS know how AND to play BAGS! Cornhole? s OK!BAGS!

Social/Beginner Bracket NOVEMBER 25 NOVEMBER 25 WEDNESDAY NOV. 22 $20 a person – Bring your own partner BAGS FLY ATthat!

10:30AM SHARP BAGS FLY ATor 10: 3can 0AMprovide SHARP we BAR,FOR GREAT AND FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! FULL BAR, GREAT FOOD, FULL ANDSocial/Beginner FUN THEFOOD, WHOLEDivision FAMILY! 241 S Broadway Old Orcutt, CA

Advanced Division DON’T KNOW HOW TO PLAY CORNHOLE? DON’T KNOW HOW TO PLAY CORNHOLE? THAT’S OK! WE HAVE A SOCIAL/BEGINNER BRACKET THAT’S OK! WE HAVE A ALSO! SOCIAL/BEGINNER BRACKET ALSO!

Music Starts at 10pm $20 A PERSON. 100% Payout to TOP 3 based on BRING YOUR$20 OWNAPARTNER PERSON. BRING YOUR OWN PARTNER number of entrants

OR WE CAN HELP WITH THAT! OR WE CAN HELP WITH THAT! SOCIAL/BEGINNER DIVISION ADVANCED DIVISION

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100% PAYOUT TO TOP 3 BASED ON NUMBER OF ENTRANTS

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THIS IS AN OUTDOOR EVENT. OUTSIDETHIS FOOD OR OUTDOOR ALCOHOL This is anNOoutdoor event – NoALLOWED outside food orORDrinks IS AN EVENT. NO OUTSIDE FOOD ALCOHOL ALLOWED

“The coolest joint in town”

Spend the Weekend with 10 Wineries along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail!

Your Christmas on the Trail wine passport is your ticket to 20 (1oz) pours of wine from any of our 10 participating wineries along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. Enjoy holiday food and wine pairings, live music, and much more all weekend long! Exclusive discounts along with a Foxen Canyon Wine Trail logo’d wine opener will be included.

Visit our ticketing site for more information.

Purchase your passports at eventbrite.com

www.santamariasun.com • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • Sun • 25

NOVEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023

MUSIC from page 24 holiday concert, “Deck the Halls,” featuring the mesmerizing vocals of renowned singer-songwriter Inga Swearingen. A captivating musical celebration. Dec. 3, 3-5 p.m. $10-30. 805-464-7804. SLOwinds.org.

Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

DONA NOBIS PACEM: GRANT US PEACE Vocal Arts Ensemble, an award-winning choir now in its 47th year presents Dona Nobis Pacem: Grant us Peace, a choral music concert with traditional and classical songs and a sing-along at the finale.

Free parking offered. Dec. 10, 3-5 p.m. $30; $10 for students.

805-541-6797. vocalarts.org. Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

DONA NOBIS PACEM: WINTER CHORAL CONCERT SERIES FROM VOCAL ARTS ENSEMBLE Vocal Arts Ensemble, an award-winning choir now in its 47th year presents Dona Nobis Pacem: Grant us Peace, a choral music concert with traditional and classical songs and a sing-along at the finale. Dec. 2, 3-5 p.m. $30-$40. 805-541-6797. vocalarts.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

JAKE SHIMABURKURO: CHRISTMAS IN HAWAII Ukulele maestro Jake Shimabukuro invites you to this heartwarming holiday extravaganza. With bassist Jackson Waldhoff and singer-songwriter Justin Kawika Young, Jake transforms timeless classics into Hawaiian delights. Experience an enchanting, joyful evening. Dec. 19, 7:30-9 p.m. $34-$56. 805-756-2787. calpolyarts. org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

SLO MASTER CHORALE: HOLIDAY FEST AND SING-ALONG Join with the SLO Master Chorale to perform the great choruses from Handel’s ever-popular masterpiece, “Messiah.” Experience the magic of the Forbes Pipe Organ, played by Cal Poly University Organist Paul Woodring. Audience members are invited to listen to the “Messiah” choruses or join in. Dec. 16, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $12-$28. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

ART

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE An installation by Northridge-based artist Elizabeth Criss. Through Feb. 1, 2024 wildlingmuseum.org.

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

POINTS OF VIEW Britt Friedman and Gerry Winant display their landscape paintings. Gerry will also exhibit abstract paintings along with his realistic landscapes. Closed on Thanksgiving Day.

Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. through Nov. 30 805 688 -7517.

GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

LOMPOC / VANDENBERG CRITTERS: REAL AND IMAGINED Photographer Rick Skillin and glass artist Joellen Chrones, will showcase wildlife photos and fused glass critters. A reception will be on Nov. 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805 -737 -1129. lompocart.org. Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc.

SAN LUIS OBISPO THE FACULTY SHOW ‘23 A testament to the diverse and collective brilliance of the Cuesta College Fine Arts faculty through a variety of media. A portion of all sales help fund the Fine Arts Access Scholarship, making an arts education more affordable for the next generation of artists. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 8 Free. 805-546-3202. cuesta.edu/ student/campuslife/artgallery/index.html. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH SLO COUNTY HANDCRAFTED FOR THE HOLIDAYS 2023 Premier craftspeople and artists are featured in this unique exhibition and retail sale.

You’ll find an abundance of unique, handmade gifts and goods at every price point. A portion of every sale supports Studios on the Park’s mission of bringing art to the community. Through Dec. 30 Free. 805-238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

OPENINGS & RECEPTIONS LOMPOC / VANDENBERG FIRST THURSDAY ART WALK Mark your calendars for December 7 for Art Walk. Cypress Gallery will be open, and its Holiday Show will be up for shopping. Features a “Holiday Make and Take.” Visitors will create their own work of art and take it home. First Thursday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. Lompoc Valley Art Association (Cypress Gallery), 119 E. Cypress, Lompoc, CA, 805-737-1129, lompocart.org.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY CAROL OF THE ARTS Includes the Studio Theatre Art Gallery Show at 6 p.m. and the Forbes Hall Performing Arts Show at 7 p.m. A showcase of art, dance, and band and choir performances

presented by the students of Arroyo Grande High School. Dec. 13, 6 & 7 p.m. $5-$10. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ aghs-carol-of-the-arts/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO ARTIST’S TALK WITH ALISA SIKELIANOS-CARTER Join SLOMA and the Palm Theatre for an artist’s talk with Alisa SikelianosCarter, whose In Space and Splendor exhibition will launch in SLOMA’s Gray Wing. Seating available. Nov. 18, 11 a.m.-noon. 805543-8562. sloma.org/. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.

CALL FOR ARTISTS: LITTLE TREASURES AND HOLIDAY TREASURE STROLL For this open exhibit, Art Central is looking for artwork priced at $100 or less to tempt holiday shoppers. All mediums and themes accepted. To participate, please fill out the artist contract on website and bring it in with your artwork. Nov. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/gallery/callfor-artists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

HOLIDAY TREASURE STROLL In the neighborhood of Monterey and Johnson Streets, take part in the Holiday Treasure Stroll.

Participating businesses on Monterey Street will be showcasing local artists and spreading holiday cheer. Dec. 2, 4-7 p.m. Free.

805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/holiday-treasure-stroll-2023/.

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

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS ARTISTIC SELF ART STUDIO For adults ages 50 and over. Bring your art projects and supplies and work on them in a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere with other artists. This is a drop-in program. Wednesdays, 9-10 a.m. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-9250951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Beginner/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/.

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-

eat up.

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0951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., 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.

832-884-8114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.

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/baby-handprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

LEARNING CALLIGRAPHY WITH CHERYL BARTON Over the course of four sessions, learn the basics of calligraphy, practice notable scripts, and take a look at the compelling history and evolution of the scripts we use today. Email Cheryl at cbchezza@ gmail.com for more info and to register. Fridays, 10:30 a.m.-noon through Nov. 17 $28 per class, or $100 for all four. artcentralslo.com.

Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-747-4200.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY ALCOHOL INK FAMILY PLAY TIME Alcohol inks are basically inks with alcohol in them, so they dry super fast. Make ornaments, necklaces, or magnets and shaving cream cards during this family-friendly event. Preregistration required. Nov. 25, 10 a.m.noon $35. 805-286-5993. creativemetime.com. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay. FREE DEMONSTRATION: MOSAIC JEWELRY MAKING During this free demonstration, Joan Martin Fee, owner of Creative Me Time, will show you how to make beautiful mosaic jewelry just in time for the holidays. You’ll walk away from this hands-on demonstration ready to create mosaic jewelry that is fun and beautiful. Dec. 11, 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-2504. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, artcentermorrobay.org.

NORTH SLO COUNTY FROSTY BIRD HOUSE Bring your little ones to a step by step tutorial to create a cozy little birdhouse in the snow for all the December birds using paint. Dec. 9, 1-2 p.m. $25. studiosonthepark.org/events/frosty-bird-house/. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles, 805-238-9800.

ART continued page 27

NOVEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 23, 2023

ART from page 26 HOLIDAY ORNAMENT WORKSHOP A seasonal favorite.

Create your own fused glass ornaments using a variety of colorful glass. After the ornaments are fired, a silver bale is glued to the back. All materials included. Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Dec. 4, 5-7 p.m. $50 for 3 ornaments. 805-464-2633. glassheadstudio.com. Glasshead Studio, 8793 Plata Lane, Suite H, Atascadero.

is-here/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO PARENT-CHILD POTTERY CLASS Make lasting memories with clay together as a family. For ages 6 and over. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon $70. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

SANTA ARRIVES BY AMTRAK’S SURFLINER Santa leaves his sleigh and rides Amtrak’s Surfliner to the San Luis Obispo Railroad station, then to the Railroad Museum where he will hear all the wishes from children of all ages in at the Museum’s 1926 Pullman Lounge Car. Dec. 2, 12-4 p.m. Free. 805-548-1894. slorrm.com. San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, 1940 Santa Barbara Ave, San Luis Obispo.

2023

KID STUFF

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS COOKIES AND CHAPTERS BOOK CLUB Each month will feature a new chapter book. Free copies of the book will be provided on a first come, first served basis. The book for November is Maya and the Robot by Eve L. Ewing. For ages 9-14. Nov. 18, 11 a.m.

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

LET’S BLOW OFF SOME STEAM Come to a special story time that encourages curiosity and exploration. Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math themes will be explored through stories and discovered through hands-on activities. Come dressed for mess. Dec. 14, 4 p.m. 805-9250994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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

PAWS TO READ Reading to dogs is a wonderful way for children to gain confidence while reading aloud. These dogs absolutely love books and are excellent listeners. No one pays attention to a child reading quite like a dog. First come, first served for 15-minute time slots. Nov. 28, 3:30-5 p.m. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

POKÉMON CLUB Join other Pokémon trainers at the popular Pokémon Club. Learn how to play the trading card game, watch the anime, and participate in other fun activities. Bring a deck from home to battle or use one from the library. Nov. 18, 11 a.m.

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

TROLLS MOVIE MARATHON Spend the morning singing along

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY EMBARCADERO WELCOMES SANTA Visit Santa’s house at the Embarcadero. Dec. 1-3, 5-8 p.m., Dec. 9, 5-8 p.m., Dec. 10, 5-8 p.m. and Dec. 16, 5-8 p.m. morrobay.org. Embarcadero Morro Bay, 714 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.

THE OUTDOORS

POLAR EXPRESS Santa Margarita Ranch presents Christmas at the Ranch, a new family-friendly holiday festivity which opens on Nov. 24 and runs through Dec. 17. The event includes train rides, visits with Santa, cookies, hot cocoa, and more. One of the railroad cars featured at the event was originally an official Disneyland Railroad car. Tickets to Christmas at the Ranch are available in advance at my805tix.com. Santa Margarita Ranch is located at 9000 Yerba Buena Ave., Santa Margarita.

—C.W. to the Trolls Movies. Stay afterwards for fun troll activities. Come dressed as your favorite troll character. Nov. 20, 11 a.m. and Nov. 21, 11 a.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

YOGA STORY TIME Families, relax together at this yoga story time. Children and caregivers will be introduced to mindfulness and learn exercises to help regulate emotions. Space and supplies are limited. Borrow a yoga mat or bring one from home. This program runs approximately 30 minutes. Dec. 10, 2 p.m. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-925-0994.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY GINGERBREAD WONDERLAND AT ST. MARK’S Enjoy a showcase

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS 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.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

of creative holiday gingerbread houses. Dec. 2, 4 p.m. St. Mark’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, 2901 Nojoqui Ave., Los Olivos.

SANTA’S VILLAGE Open every Saturday leading up to Christmas Day. Come on out to Solvang Park to meet Mr. Claus with Christmas lists at the ready. Pictures with Santa are free to all. Dec. 2, 2-4 p.m., Dec. 9, 12-4 p.m., Dec. 16, 12-4 p.m. and Dec. 23, 12-4 p.m. solvangusa.com. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE Enjoy a special holiday celebration with your favorite DPAC Dancers. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. That’s what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown.” Dec. 16, 6 p.m. $15-$25.

805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/dpac-christmas-time-

SOLVANG CANDLELIGHT TOURS Traverse the streets of Solvang, while singing carols and learning about some Danish traditions along with Solvang history. Led by a costumed guide, all tour participants will receive an LED candle to hold during the tour. Dec. 8, 5 p.m., Dec. 9, 5 p.m., Dec. 15, 5 p.m., Dec. 16, 5 p.m. and Dec. 18-23, 5 p.m. solvangusa.com. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.

SAN LUIS OBISPO NATURE NIGHTS The SLO Botanical Garden announces its second season of Nature Nights. Visit site for more info on the event as well as tickets. Fridays, Saturdays, 5-8 p.m. through Dec. 31 $27 Adults; $17 Youth (ages 6-17); free for ages 5 and under. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo. m

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Hot Stuff

NOVEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 26, 2023 FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WILDLING MUSEUM OF ART AND NATURE

TURKEY DRIVE Collecting donated turkeys for Thanksgiving Nov 1st to Nov 22nd… and beyond!

STEP BY STEP

Art Central in San Luis Obispo hosts a two-day painting workshop with local artist Jim Tyler, with sessions on Friday, Nov. 17, from 2 to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Attendees of the series will complete their own pastel paintings of a marina setting.

Admission is $140. Visit artcentralslo.com for more info. The venue is located at 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

—C.W.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 12 ALTRUSA’S FESTIVAL OF TREES For the purchase of a $1 raffle ticket, each tree winner will take home a fabulously decorated tree and gifts, and support scholarships and grants throughout the Santa Maria Valley. Nov. 24-Dec. 9 santamariatowncenter.com. Santa Maria Town Center, 142 Town Center East, Santa Maria.

BOUNCING BABY STORY TIME Explore pre-literacy skills through music, movement, and visual stimulation and promote a healthy bond between baby and caregiver. For ages 0-12 months.

No story time on Nov. 22. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. through Dec. 6 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY Visitors embark on a magical holiday light drivethrough experience at the Elks Event Center with displays presented by local businesses and families. Fridays, Saturdays. through Dec. 24 elksrec.com. Elks Event Center, 4040 Highway 101, Santa Maria.

COOKIES AND CHAPTERS BOOK CLUB Each month will feature a new chapter book. Free copies of the book will be provided on a first come, first served basis.

The book for November is Maya and the Robot by Eve L. Ewing. For ages 9-14. Nov. 18, 11 a.m. 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.

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.

POKÉMON CLUB Join other Pokémon trainers at the popular Pokémon Club.

Learn how to play the trading card game, watch the anime, and participate in other fun activities. Bring a deck from home to battle or use one from the library.

Nov. 18, 11 a.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA MARIA’S 27TH ANNUAL TURKEY TROT FUN RUN The City of Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department invites the public to get in shape before the “Big Feast.” Turkey Trot race starts at 9 a.m.

Kids 1-Mile Fun Run starts at 9:45 a.m.

Check-in starts at 8 a.m. Proceeds benefit

People for Leisure and Youth (PLAY). Nov. 18, 8 a.m. raceplace.com. Santa Maria River Levee Trailhead, N. Preisker Lane, Santa Maria.

SMVGS MEETING Visitors welcome.

Contact smvgs.org for program and location info. Third Thursday of every month, 2:15-4 p.m. smvgs.org. Santa Maria Valley Genealogical Society, 908 Sierra Madre, Santa Maria.

TROLLS MOVIE MARATHON Spend the morning singing along to the Trolls Movies.

Stay afterwards for fun troll activities.

Come dressed as your favorite troll character. Nov. 20, 11 a.m. and Nov. 21, 11 a.m. Free. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons. org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

A COWBOY CHRISTMAS Hosted by Old West Events, in conjunction with SYV Horseback Rides. A portion of ticket sales benefit the Santa Barbara Youth Collective.

Features visits with Santa, a hot cocoa bar, petting zoo, bounce house, snacks, beer/wine, and more. Nov. 24-Dec. 23 syvcowboychristmas.com/. River View Park, 151 Sycamore Dr., Buellton.

SOLVANG JULEFEST 2023 Solvang’s Danish-style holiday celebration features some new facets and fun-filled events, and runs throughout the festive season. Nov. 24-Jan. 6 solvangusa.com.

Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.

SOLVANG’S 12TH ANNUAL TURKEY TROT 5K RUN/WALK Run for fun. All ages welcome. Proceeds to benefit a local charity. Nov. 23, 10 a.m. $25 registration.

805-688-7529. cityofsolvang.com. Sunny Fields Park, 900 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE Enjoy touring a lavishly decorated 1875 Victorian home; presented by the Lompoc Valley Historical Society. Nov. 24 and Nov. 25 Lompoc Valley Historical Society, 207 N. L St., Lompoc, lompochistory.org.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

AVILA BEACH TURKEY TROT To raise awareness about hunger in SLO County and funds that provide critical protein and nutrition to those in need. Create a team to fundraise with your flock and amplify your impact. Nov. 23, 8:30 a.m. slofoodbank.org. Avila Beach Promenade, 404 Front St., Avila 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.

PISMO BEACH TURKEY TROT To raise awareness about hunger in SLO County and funds that provide critical protein and nutrition to those in need. Create a team to fundraise with your flock and amplify your impact. Nov. 23, 8:30 a.m. slofoodbank.org.

Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, Pismo Beach.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

SANTA’S HOURS AT HERITAGE GARDENS Enjoy visits with Santa Claus during this holiday festivity at the Historical Society’s Heritage House and Gardens. Saturdays, Sundays, 1-4 p.m. through Dec. 21 christmasagvillage.com/ home. Heritage House and Gardens, 126 South Mason, Arroyo Grande.

WOMEN MAKING WAVES HIKE An opportunity to connect with like-minded, passionate women who are here to lift one another up as we navigate life, work, family, (fill in the blank). Nov. 18, 9 a.m. my805tix.com. Pismo Preserve, Mattie Road, Pismo Beach.

2023 LOMPOC TURKEY TROT Includes the Turkey Trot 3-Mile Fun Run and Kids Turkey Dash. Hosted by Lompoc Parks and Recreation. All ability levels are encouraged to participate. Nov. 19, 11 a.m.

805-875-8100. cityoflompoc.com. River Park, Highway 246 and Sweeney Road, Lompoc.

LOMPOC VALLEY BOTANIC AND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETING General meeting and annual plant, seed, SAN LUIS OBISPO tuber, and bulb exchange. Hear about members’ success stories with plants CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit and bring home a few specimen. Light website for full list of weekly Zoom groups refreshments will be served. LVBHS is a available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, nonprofit association and a member of Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions California Garden Clubs Inc. Nov. 19, 2-4 Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, p.m. No admission fee. 805-450-3668.

San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346. lvbhs.org. Stone Pine Hall, 210 South H CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 30 St., Lompoc.

The public can drop off turkeys at the Santa Maria Warehouse, located at 490 W. Foster Road, during normal business hours: Monday through Friday, 7am – 3pm Fresh or frozen turkeys accepted

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WIN TWO TICKETS TO A CAL POLY BASEBALL HOME GAME Various Dates & Times Mott Athletic Center, Cal Poly, SLO

TICKETS TO THE CUESTA CONCORD CHORUS HOLIDAY CONCERT Sunday, December 3 • 3pm Atascadero Lake Pavilion, Atascadero

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Hot Stuff CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 29 CENTRAL COAST AVIATORS IN WORLD WAR II Jim Gregory will be talking about Central Coast Aviators in World War II. During World War II, thousands of volunteer combat aviators trained at places like Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo and Hancock Field in Santa Maria. Nov. 19, 121:30 p.m. Free. eaa170.touringmachine.com.

SLO EAA Club, 4349 Old Santa Fe Rd, Hangar 49, San Luis Obispo, 805-555-1212.

FELINE NETWORK: ADOPT A KITTEN EVENT Come see some beautiful cats and kittens for adoption and bring home a forever pet. All cats are fixed, vaccinated, and microchipped.

Nov. 25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 805-550-9064. felinenetwork.org. PetSmart, 1530 Froom Ranch Way, San Luis Obispo.

GYM JAM CLINIC Enjoy two hours of progressive gymnastics skill training on bars, beam, floor, trampoline, plus obstacle courses and more. All levels welcome; no experience necessary For ages 5-17. Nov. 18, 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; $10 per additional sibling.

805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

HARVEST GYMNASTICS CAMP Described as the perfect way to regroup before the holidays start. Take a deep breath (or get in some last-minute shopping) while your child will enjoy hours of gymnastics fun. For ages 4-13; all levels. Custom scheduling available. Nov. 20, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Nov. 21, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and Nov. 22, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $40-$135 (depending on what you choose). 805-5471496. performanceathleticsslo.com/camps.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

KIDS’ PARTY PARADISE: TURKEY TROT Want 4.5 child-free hours on a Saturday night? Drop your kids off at Kids’ Party Paradise. They’ll have a blast with pizza, a movie, and themed gymnastics fun while you get an evening off. For ages 4-13; no gymnastics experience necessary. Nov. 18, 5-9:30 p.m. $50-$70.

805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

SIERRA CLUB HISTORIC WALK OF SAN LUIS OBISPO: POST WORLD WAR II REBIRTH Downtown stroll to learn about SLO city life from the mid-40s with its pool halls and soda fountains to its transformation in the ‘70s. Nov. 19, 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 805-549-0355. Corner of Santa Rosa and Pacific, Santa Rosa Street and Pacific Street, San Luis Obispo.

SLO FOOD BANK TURKEY TROT (VIRTUAL) Walk, run, or hike on your own or with family and closest friends at a location of your choice. Help raise awareness about hunger in SLO County and funds that provide critical protein and nutrition to those in need. Nov. 23 slofoodbank.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN MONTHLY GETTOGETHERS SLO RAMs is a group of retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Third Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $31 luncheon. retiredactivemen.org/.

Madonna Inn Garden Room, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.

SLOCO’S GIFTING TREE For every gift certificate purchased at SLOCO through end of December, the venue will donate to WeForest and plant a tree in your name, a gift that keeps on giving. Help the host reach its goal of planting 300 trees by the end of the year.

Mondays-Sundays. through Dec. 31 Donations support WeForest. 805-439-2515. slocohealth. com. SLOCO Health + Wellness, 1957 Santa Barbara Ave., San Luis Obispo.

TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 805-540-6576. t-mha.org.

Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

1,000 TREE PLANTING FOR GREENSPACE: THE CAMBRIA LAND TRUST Grab your shovels, gloves, and boots to help this rehabilitation/reforestation project with State Parks. Nov. 18, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-9272866. greenspacecambria.org. Hearst San Simeon State Park, 500 San Simeon Creek Road, San Simeon.

30 • Sun • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

NOVEMBER 16 - NOVEMBER 26, 2023 COURTESY IMAGE BY ANNE LADDON

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

ENJOY AXE THROWING Enjoy the art of axe throwing in a safe and fun environment. Kids ages 10 and older are welcome with an adult.

No personal axes please. Fridays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. $20. 805-5284880. baysidemartialarts.com. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

NATIVE PLANTS FOR POLLINATORS Los Osos Valley Garden Club hosts Master Gardener and certified California Naturalist Peggy Burhenn as she discusses steps to make your garden more welcoming to pollinators. A member talk on Gardening for Native Bees in Sand will be given

by Cindy Roessler beforehand. Nov. 19, 2-4 p.m.

Free. lovgardenclub.org. First Baptist Church of Los Osos, 1900 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos, 805-528-3066.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/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/.

FOURTH ANNUAL FRIENDSGIVING DJ set starts at 10 p.m. For ages 21 and over.

Presented by Blast 825 Brewery. Nov. 22 Cover charge after 10 p.m. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777, rooneysirishpub.net.

FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty.

With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song.

Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

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

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

THANKSGIVING BRUNCH Features a carving station, omelet station, waffle bar, hot dishes, seafood, salads, bottomless mimosas, and more.

Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. santamariainn.com.

Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.

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

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night.

Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-819-0723. coldcoastbrewing. com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave, Lompoc.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

WINE SCHOOL: BEAUJOLAIS DAY SPECIAL Join this Wine School led by sommelier Sam Schmidt. Dive into thoughtfully selected Beaujolais wines and enjoy lively discussions about their history, significance, and unique characteristics in the global wine panorama. Take your love of wine up a notch.

Nov. 16, 6-7:30 p.m. $45. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com/events/. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

AUTUMN AWE

Prolific pastelist Anne Laddon will lead the Pumpkins in Pastel class at Studios on the Park in Paso Robles on Friday, Nov. 17, from 5 to 8 p.m. Participants will walk away from the workshop with their own completed painting. Admission is $30, or $50 for two. All materials will be provided. Visit studiosonthepark.org for more info. The gallery is located at 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

—C.W. WINE SCHOOL: THE WORLD OF GRENACHE Led by sommelier Sam Schmidt. Dive into some thoughtfully selected Grenache and enjoy lively discussions about their history, significance, and unique characteristics in the global wine panorama. Take your love of wine up a notch.

Nov. 19 $45. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine. com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR Enjoy live music most Fridays and Saturdays. Call venue or check website to find out who’s performing.

Fridays, Saturdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night.

Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 SAN LUIS OBISPO a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa THANKSGIVING AT LUNA RED Enjoy a Maria, 805-623-8866. three-course, chef-prepared, prix-fixe on MUSIC MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn Thanksgiving Day. Let the venue handle the to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or preparations and enjoy an stress-free meal violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing 805-925with loved ones. Nov. 23, 1-9 p.m. $55-$60.

FLAVOR/EATS 0464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/lessons.html.

805-540-5243. lunaredslo.com. Luna Red, 1023 Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Chorro St., San Luis Obispo.

Santa Maria.

THANKSGIVING SERVICE AT FIRST CHURCH OLD TIME GOSPELINFO SING-ALONG All are OF CHRIST, SCIENTIST welcome. Call for more A festive and inspiring details. Last Saturday service including of every month, 5-6 CALENDAR readings from The p.m. 805-478-6198.

Bible and Science Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 and Health with Key Town Center E, Send event information to calendar@ OPINION to the Scriptures by Santa Maria. santamariasun.com.

Mary Baker Eddy, SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS: hymns, the President’s NEWSWINE, MUSIC, Thanksgiving AND MORE Enjoy a flight of six distinctively Proclamation, and group sharing of gratitude different age-worthy wines while listening and healings. Child care provided. Online service to live entertainment presented by a local at website. Nov. 23, 10-11 a.m. 805-543-5853.

STROKES band, musician, or disc jockey. Features ChristianScienceSLO.org. First Church of Christ, sweet treats from Santa Maria food vendors Scientist, 1326 Garden St., San Luis Obispo. and local artisans. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. through ARTS Nov. 26 Free. 805-937-8463. instagram.com/ cottonwoodcanyonwinery/. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with FOLK DANCE CLASS For adults ages 50 and some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. up. Learn folk dances from around the world. No Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 experience is necessary. Every third Thursday, Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

2-3 p.m. through Dec. 28 Free. 805-925-0951.

UKULELE JAM SESSIONS This is a drop-in Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., program. Play melodies and many songs with Santa Maria. other musicians. Baritone ukuleles are available to LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious use or bring your own. Music and music strands and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. provided. Mondays, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925-0951. Elwin Mussell Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

LINE DANCING FUN For adults ages 50 and SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y older. Learn basic patterns and steps to some of your favorite music. This beginner-friendly class LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick is for anyone that enjoys dancing. Wednesdays, Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, 1:30-2:30 p.m. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925805-686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.

0951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., MUSIC continued page 31 Santa Maria.

Spread the word!

MUSIC

Hot Stuff MUSIC from page 30 SOLVANG PARK LIGHT AND MUSIC SHOW Every evening during Solvang Julefest, Solvang Park will come alive with all that sparkles and shines. Enjoy a 10-minute light and music display on the hour each night. Nov. 24-Jan. 6 solvangusa. com. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

GRUPO RADIANTE DE FAUSTO CRUZ LIVE Presented by FCB and Uribe Entertainment Inc. With Grupo S.D.L. and DJ Kazanova. Nov. 18, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

GUERRA DE BANDA LIVE Presented by FCB and Uribe Entertainment Inc. Nov. 25, 8 p.m. my805tix.com. Flower City Ballroom, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

A MAGICAL NIGHT WITH KISS AND AC/DC TRIBUTES Featuring the extraordinary talent of Dressed to Kill (Kiss tribute band) and special guest Colonel Angus (AC/DC tribute band).

All ages welcome. Nov. 17, 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.

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KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY Enjoy some good food and karaoke.

Fridays, 5-8 p.m. 805-723-5550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo.

KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly event with barbecue offerings and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, 805-925-3500.

LEONID & FRIENDS Capturing the spirit, musicality, and fire of American supergroup Chicago, Leonid & Friends replicates the band’s complex arrangements amazingly note for note.

Comprised of 11 of the finest musicians in Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, and Belarus, this remarkable group has performed multiple sold-out U.S. tours. Nov. 19, 7-10 p.m. $36-$75. 805-4899444. clarkcenter.org/shows/leonid-and-friends/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

THREE MARTINI LUNCH AND THE JAZZ ALLEY REVIEW: PRESENTED BY BASIN STREET REGULARS Enjoy some “Hot Swingin’ Jazz” at the Basin Street Regulars’ Sunday afternoon concert. Food and drinks will be sold. Nov. 19, 12-4 p.m. Free; donations appreciated. 805-937-2419. my805tix.com. Rib Line, 359 W Grand Ave, suite B, Grover Beach.

AFTERNOON PICK-UP TIMES M O N –T HU R S

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BEYOND THE NOTES: ENRICHMENT THROUGH MUSIC AND COMMUNITY Very limited tickets are available for this educational presentation. Please RSVP to reserve your space.

Nov. 18, 5-7 p.m. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

BGA’S ANNUAL SWAP MEET 2023 Calling all musicians and event professionals. Find deals on all the equipment you’ve been needing. Buy, sell, or trade your way or reserve a booth to make some extra cash from the extra gear you’re planning on upgrading. Nov. 18, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. my805tix.com. Bill Gaines Audio, 840 Capitolio, A, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY FALL JAZZ CONCERT Known to the world as America’s original art form, jazz has several subgenres which will be showcased at this concert by student musicians from a variety of majors. Nov. 17 $20 general; $10 students. 805-7564849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/jazz/. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

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

LIVE MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO. Enjoy live music by local favorites. Wine available by the flight, glass, or bottle.

Thursdays-Saturdays, 6-9 p.m. Ragtag Wine Co., 779 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-0774, ragtagwineco.com.

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO MASTER CHORALE PRESENTS “CHANTS ENCOUNTER” A performance including pieces from composers Arvo Pärt, W. A. Mozart, by 100-voice choir with full orchestra.

Nov. 19, 3-5 p.m. $10-$60. 805-538-3311. slomasterchorale.org.

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

SLO MASTER CHORALE PRESENTS BEYOND THE NOTES: “DEFINING GENIUS: PÄRT AND MOZART” What makes a musical genius? Learn how a combination of traditional elements combined with innovative techniques and imagination have produced two extraordinary and impactful works of sacred music that speak beyond their Christian heritage to larger issues of human spirituality. Nov. 19, 1:15-2 p.m. Free. 805-538-3311. slomasterchorale.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

SUNDAY MUSIC AT RAGTAG WINE CO. Enjoy live music by local favorites. Wine available by the flight, glass, or bottle.

Sundays, 4-7 p.m. Ragtag Wine Co., 779 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-0774, ragtagwineco.com. m

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Arts

STAGE COURTESY PHOTOS BY RYAN LOYD, RYLO MEDIA DESIGN

ARTS BRIEFS Diane Rose Zink’s The Nutcracker showcases two Santa Maria-based dance studios

Experience the tradition

Catch the show for yourself at SLO Rep (888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo) Nov. 17 through Dec. 23. For tickets and more information on show times, visit slorep.org/ shows/a-christmas-story-2023.

IMAGE COURTESY OF THE CLARK CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

The Santa Maria Civic Ballet and Everybody Can DANCE present their annual collaborative production of The Nutcracker, choreographed by Diane Rose Zink, at the Clark Center for the Performing Arts in Arroyo Grande on Nov. 25, at 7 p.m., and Nov. 26, at 3 p.m.

As the show’s artistic director, Zink has helmed this unique version of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet since its Central Coast debut at the Santa Maria Town Center in 1987. Local actor Makai Copado, who played the Nutcracker Prince during Zink’s 2022 production, reprises the role in this year’s iteration. The cast also includes Everybody Can DANCE alumna Juliet Peck as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The show is described as “journey through the wonder of first love and the joys of the season,” in press materials. The plot opens on Christmas Eve with a young girl named Clara and her godfather, who gifts her a wooden toy soldier for Christmas. Later that night, Clara has a nightmare about giant mice breaking into her home, led by the evil Mouse King. It’s up to her toy soldier, the Nutcracker Prince, to defeat the rodent army.

Tickets to The Nutcracker are $20 for children and $25 for adults. To find out more about the program and other upcoming shows hosted by the Clark Center for the Performing Arts, call the venue’s box office at (805) 4899444 or visit clarkcenter.org. The Clark Center is located at 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

The box office is open one hour prior to each performance, and regularly Tuesday through Friday, from 1 to 6 p.m., and every Saturday, from noon to 4 p.m. For more info on either Everybody Can DANCE or the Santa Maria Civic Ballet, visit facebook.com/ecdsmcb.

Ebenezer Scrooge returns to Great American Melodrama for The Holiday Extravaganza FILE PHOTO BY STEVE E. MILLER

FANTASTIC FRAGILÉ: From the unforgetable leg lamp to the hilarious (and horrifying) wet tongue on a cold lamppost, SLO Rep’s A Christmas Story brings the movie magic to the stage.

Ralphie’s wonderland

“We knew almost immediately that it would work well in the smaller space that we had and that because of the nature of the movie, we could utilize the younger actors who took part in our Academy of Creative Theatre Program,” he said. “And the response we got was just off the charts, I mean it really took us by surprise.”

He said that in that first production—and the current production—the stage was designed to fit all the scenes from the movie, including the main family living room, the snowy outdoors, the store that main character Ralphie eagerly wants a Red Ryder BB Gun from, and more.

“Seeing all of the scenes in front of you is such a unique experience because the stage is shifting and sliding for the number of scenes that take place,” Harris said laughing. “This year our tech director utilized that sort of black box theater space we have while also making different levels to accommodate for each of the scenes.”

Harris said he’s seen families come back year after year for the production, making A Christmas Story just as much a staple performance of the local holidays as its movie counterpart.

SLO Rep brings the holiday cheer with 10th annual production of A Christmas Story

BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

T

here may be no better showcase of the wonder, chaos, and downright absurdity of the holiday season than the iconic Warner Bros. movie A Christmas Story.

The 1983 flick is on TV everywhere during the holiday season (the frequency of which is rivaled only by It’s a Wonderful Life and The Twilight Zone).

So it only makes sense, according to SLO Repertory Theatre Managing Artistic Director Kevin Harris, that the theatrical production of A Christmas Story is one of the most popular and beloved shows the theater company puts on.

“Most of the people that come and see the play know the lines by heart because they are just so familiar with all of the scenes,” Harris said. “When you are that familiar with the movie version, seeing it performed live in front of you is an amazing experience.”

A Christmas Story starts its run on Nov. 17 where it will be performed

Wednesday through Sunday at 7 p.m. with a bonus showing on Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. (showings on Thanksgiving or Dec. 1).

“For a lot of people, this is their first time seeing a SLO Rep production so the show sticks with them,” Harris said. “A lot of people bring in their kids or even grandkids because it’s fun for everyone at all ages.”

The production is more than just a celebration of a holiday classic, according to Harris, who told the Sun that it’s also the 10th anniversary of the show for SLO Rep. “As far as I know, no one had really done it at the time we started back in 2013,” Harris said. “The play version of the movie had been adapted before we put on the production [by Philip Grecian], but when we had the opportunity to do it we jumped at it the first chance we had.”

Part of the reason Harris felt so strongly about putting on the play then and now was due to a couple of unique factors that SLO Rep has going for it.

“It’s why we are starting the run two weeks earlier than we normally do,” he said. “We want to give people the chance to see it and start the tradition for themselves.”

But that tradition also extends past the audience, as Harris said the cast changes every year, and a new iteration of the play follows.

“It’s unlike any other production we do. Every year it evolves in some way with a new cast and alternate takes,” he said. “I give a speech at the start of every year’s rehearsal, and I tell them how it’s such a treat to see how the story resonates with the year’s particular actors.”

Harris said the production is a sort of homecoming for previous actors and stage designers as SLO Rep often gathers together before and during the run to celebrate the legacy of the show.

“We have worked with over 80 young actors in these productions and almost all of them come back at some point during the run,” he said. “Now a lot of those actors are in their mid- or late-20s—some of them even have kids themselves—so we usually try to get the whole big family together for a potluck.”

Whether you are a longtime enthusiast of the classic film, or (somehow) have never seen the original, SLO Rep’s A Christmas Story is something Harris hopes will become part of people’s family traditions for years to come.

“If you have a bunch of family coming into town to visit or you just want to see one of the productions we are most proud of, this is the one to see,” Harris said. “It’s just a great chance to get out of the house, see the lights they put up across downtown, and enjoy a new—or old—holiday tradition.” m New Times Staff Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas, from the Sun’s sister paper, is laughing at that damn lamp scene again. Reach him at arosas@ newtimesslo.com.

MUSIC

FLAVOR/EATS

INFO

CALENDAR

OPINION

The Great American Melodrama’s 2023 production of The Holiday Extravaganza is scheduled to open on Nov. 17.

Performances of this annual holiday production will run through Dec. 31. The three-act show includes the venue’s traditional retelling of A Christmas Carol, a fractured fairy tale opera segment, and a holiday-themed vaudeville act.

For more details, call the Great American Melodrama’s box office at (805) 489-2499. The Great American Melodrama is located at 1863 Front St., Oceano. Check americanmelodrama.com for tickets and show times.

Discounts for seniors, students, and children are available. m Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood.

Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

NEWS

STROKES

Showtime!

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

HOLIDAY HIJINKS: A Christmas Story is a holiday classic, especially for the folks at SLO Rep putting on the 10th run of the zany Christmas tale this winter.

32 • Sun • November 16 - November 23, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

ARTS

BAD WORDS BLUES: A family-friendly holiday show for all, SLO Rep’s A Christmas Story promises to combine the magic of the original movie with the talents of the company’s actors to make this show an unforgettable holiday treat.

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Film

SUN SCREEN

Laughter and tears

PHOTO COURTESY OF FOCUS FEATURES

A

who has a distinctive lazy eye and an off-putting smell. He isn’t disposed to kindness, and he doesn’t give his students a break—handing out C’s, D’s, and F’s one after another. Tully actually fairs pretty well in Hunham’s Ancient Civilizations class, but even relatively high grades don’t endear the student to his teacher.

Payne is doing what he does best, creating a quiet, introspective journey for his audience.

Everyone here is flawed, everyone is hurt, and everyone is carrying weight beyond themselves.

Mary lost her son Curtis in Vietnam while he was trying to earn himself a scholarship. It seems both she and Hunham turn to the bottle as their sympathetic ear. However, everyone here is incredibly seeable—life Glen: Mr. Hunham is a is messy, as The Holdovers THE HOLDOVERS real hard-ass, the sort of demonstrates, much like What’s it rated? R intractable teacher that Payne’s other films. I’m a What’s it worth, Glen? Full price students hate. He’s exacting, sucker for this director. I’ll What’s it worth, Anna? Full price unforgiving, and wholly watch whatever he puts out.

Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards lacking in empathy … at least Glen: The other holdovers Santa Maria & RPX to his students. He thinks are insufferable prick Teddy he’s challenging them to be Kountze (Brady Hepner), better, molding them into “Barton Men”—men Korean exchange student Ye-Joon Park (Jim of integrity. To his students, he’s just an out of Kaplan), sweet but nervous Alex Ollerman touch, bitter grouch. Hunham’s also disliked (Ian Dolley), and rich kid Jason Smith (Michael by headmaster Dr. Hardy Woodrup (Andrew Provost), who’s left at school because his father Garman), especially after he failed the son of won’t let him come home until he cuts his hair. one of the school’s biggest donors, scuttling Eventually, Jason’s dad caves and drops into the student’s chance to go to an Ivy League Barton via helicopter, offering to take all the holdovers on an all-expenses-paid ski vacation. university, which is why he ends up getting roped into overseeing the “holdovers,” kids with Great news for everyone but Tully, whose mother can’t be reached to give permission. nowhere to go over the holidays. It’s a recipe for Now it’s just Hunham and Tully, and it seems acrimony … hilarious acrimony.

Anna: “Walleye” is what students call Hunham, like it couldn’t get any worse … until it does. lexander Payne (Election, Sideways, Nebraska, The Descendants) directs this dramedy set in 1970 starring Paul Giamatti as Paul Hunham, an unliked and ill-tempered history teacher at Barton Academy, a remote New England boarding school. Over the holidays, Hunham gets stuck on campus overseeing the handful of students with nowhere to go, in particular Angus Tully (Dominic Sessa), a troubled kid grieving the loss of his father. With help from school cook Mary Lamb (Da’Vine Joy Randolph), who’s grieving the loss of her soldier son in Vietnam, Hunham and Tully discover they’re not so different from one another. (133 min.)

ALONE TOGETHER: After his newly remarried mother informs him their holiday is canceled, boarding school student Angus Tully (Dominic Sessa, left) is forced to spend the Christmas with his history teacher, Mr. Hunham (Paul Giamatti), in The Holdovers, screening in local theaters.

come to know his mother is choosing a new life over him. While some might find the pace slow, this film’s a study in what it means to be human and find connection—even to those who’d cut themselves off long ago. I’ll be watching this again, as I do with all of Payne’s films. They’re quietly mesmerizing. m

Soon, however, the mismatched pair begin to understand the sources of one another’s bitterness, and before long, we’re on the road to catharsis city. It’s a rutty road, and it’s not a Hollywood ending, but eventually they both find a way out of their respective ruts.

Anna: These two needed each other, even when they really don’t like each other. Hunham is lonely but seems to be by design. He’s a grouch who prefers his own company, but we soon see cracks in that façade. Tully’s also a loner, and we

New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen.

Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF APPLE TV PLUS

Film Reviews FINGERNAILS

What’s it rated? R When? 2023 Where’s it showing? Apple TV Plus What would you do to discover if the person claiming to love you is truly in love? What would you do to be assured you were really in love with your partner? In this Apple Original film, Anna (Jessie Buckley) and Ryan (Jeremy Allen White) have proven their love by taking a strange test—one that requires the loss of a whole fingernail that gets analyzed by a mysterious machine that reveals your status. Either you come out at 100 percent like Anna and Ryan, proving both are in love with each other, 0 percent which means neither partner is in love, or the most torturous result—50 percent, meaning one partner feels a way the other doesn’t.

The institute that runs these tests also runs courses for couples that work to identify and solidify love. When Anna starts secretly working there, she meets Amir (Riz Ahmed) and is shook. Suddenly she can’t suss out where her true feelings lie, and the dark web of her wondering mind makes her question her life with Ryan.

LOVE TEST? Ryan (Jeremy Allen White) and Anna (Jessie Buckley) know they’re in love because a test that analyzes torn-out fingernails told them so, but is it accurate? Find out in Fingernails, streaming on Apple TV Plus.

The film follows her descent into compulsive darkness in a search for her truth. Interesting yet ultimately dark, this film makes you question how far you would go to know your own mind. (113 min.)

—Anna

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What’s it rated? PG When? 1973 Where’s it showing? The Palm FROM THE Theatre of San Luis Obispo on Nov. 18 (1:30, 4:15, and 7 p.m.) and Nov. 20 (7 p.m.)

George Roy Hill (Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Slaughterhouse-Five, Slap Shot) directs this seven-time Academy Award-winning film (including Best Picture, Director, Original Screenplay, and Score) about Great Depression-era grifters Henry Gondorff (Paul Newman) and Johnny Hooker (Robert Redford) who are out to fleece Irish American mobster Doyle Lonnegan (Robert Shaw), who murdered their friend.

Incredibly stylish with amazing sets and costumes, the film’s score features classic Scott Joplin compositions and a screenplay by David S. Ward (Major League, Sleepless in Seattle) with enough twists and turns to tie viewers into knots. Newman and Redford are at their roguish best, and the ensemble cast—which includes Charles Durning, Ray Walston, Eileen Brennan, Harold Gould, and Robert Earl Jones—is brilliant.

Despite murder and its crime theme, the film wisely keeps things light, concerning itself with humor and a story so

THE BIG CON: Robert Redford and Paul Newman star in the 1973 classic The Sting, screening on Nov. 18 and 20, in the Palm Theatre of San Luis Obispo.

complicated that viewers can’t help but be impressed the filmmakers kept it together and had it all make sense. It was a favorite of mine as a kid, and I learned a lot about sleight of hand, grifting, and the genius of Scott Joplin. Better yet, it holds up artistically. They don’t make ’em like this anymore.

(129 min.) m —Glen

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Eats

FOOD COURTESY PHOTOS BY KISA MAXWELL

Come out of your shell

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TASTE THE OCEAN: Mother Shuckers owners Butch and Barbara Powers’ knowledge of the local seafood market enables the Nipomo restaurant to get oysters from Morro Bay’s Grassy Bar Oyster Company.

Pearls of flavor Mother Shuckers is Nipomo’s prime seafood joint, specializing in oysters and a good time

BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL

B

eing landlocked on the Central Coast isn’t stopping one Nipomo restaurant from shucking and serving oysters.

Mother Shuckers, the rustic seafood spot on North Thompson Avenue, draws attention to itself, least of all for its bright blue exterior and the shiny black sign out front bearing a mermaid holding a pearl-filled oyster. It’s all about the briny cornucopia of mollusks available to enjoy at an affordable price.

“Nipomo is so small, but we’re really limited when it comes to restaurants,”

Mother Shuckers social media manager Kisa Maxwell said. “There’s no other specialty seafood place here to my knowledge.”

Open since December 2021 under the ownership of Nipomo residents Butch and Barbara Powers, the restaurant receives its oyster supply from Morro Bay’s Grassy Bar Oyster Company. The North Coast to South County connection comes from the Powers’ familiarity with the local market that came with running their other business: Olde Port Fish and Seafood Company in Grover Beach.

Enjoy oysters on the half shell and more at Mother Shuckers, 133 Thompson Ave., Nipomo. The restaurant is open Thursday through Sunday from 2 to 9 p.m. Karaoke nights take place Saturday from 8 to 11 p.m. Keep up with Mother Shuckers on Instagram @mothershuckersnipomo and on Facebook at Mother Shuckers - Nipomo.

FLAVOR/EATS

INFO

CALENDAR

OPINION

ON FIRE: Tuck into broiled oysters at Mother Shuckers that come with toppings (from left to right) like a Cajun blend, poke sauce and seaweed salad, and lemon garlic butter with panko crumbs.

NEWS

The Powers originally envisioned STROKES Mother Shuckers to be an oyster and beer bar. When Maxwell joined ARTS them, she recommended adding local wines to the menu. Patrons and community members gave friendly recommendations, too, especially ones who were familiar with Olde Port Fish and Seafood. That advice resulted in other additions to the seafood family— beer-battered fish and chips, pink bay shrimp cocktails, ahi tuna, and panko-crusted clam and squid strips.

Now, Mother Shuckers also serves 15 beers on tap, wines by the glass and bottle, and wine-based cocktails like the Nipomo Sunset.

But it’s the oyster that sings brightest at Mother Shuckers, and the restaurant goes through 30 dozen in a given week.

At its simplest, the shucked oysters are sweet, meaty, and possess a

clean taste of the ocean. Served with plenty of lemon wedges and packets of Tapatio hot sauce, the oysters are cracked open efficiently enough for them to smoothly glide off the shell and into your gullet. It’s as graceful as could be. Get half a dozen for $16 or a dozen for $30.

Mother Shuckers also gets creative with the oysters, putting the shucked shells under the broiler flame. It doesn’t stop there. Those broiled oysters can be crowned with six toppings of your choice, including lemon and garlic butter-soaked panko breadcrumbs, poke sauce and seaweed salad, or a Cajun blend with Tapatio and parmesan cheese.

“For people who like oysters, it’s not just raw,” Maxwell said. “We don’t do a mignonette sauce. We do have horseradish and cocktail upon request

for people. That’s why we like to offer the broiled options for a little bit of variety.”

A bright shrimp ceviche topping also exists for those who want to ramp up the regular raw oysters at Mother Shuckers. It’s tomato-forward and flecked with chopped jalapeño, cucumber, red onions, and cilantro.

Maxwell told the Sun it’s a cohesive way to unite two preexisting menu items.

“I came up with the ceviche and that’s been on the menu for a year,” she said. “Then, a customer was like, ‘At home, I put my ceviche on top of fresh oysters.’ We tried it and it was great.”

Maxwell calls herself the “Jill of all trades” having worked every job at Mother Shuckers. Well, almost.

She’s hasn’t shucked an oyster yet and leaves that to the kitchen staff.

EATS continued page 38

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Eats

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EATS from page 36

But the Tapatio aficionado has recommendations on how to eat them.

“I personally think you have to add things to it, but everyone has their own way of liking it,” she said. “Personally, I like hot sauce, horseradish, and the broiled options.”

Maxwell added that Mother Shuckers is going to roll out an updated menu this month. New features will include salmon tacos along with the usual shrimp and rock cod varieties that can be enjoyed on “Taco Thursdays” with a dollar knocked off, and a ticketed crab boil event in December.

With the help of Maxwell, bartender and Powers’ daughter Katie Quine, and a team of four staff members, Mother Shuckers is steadily becoming a Nipomo hot spot. Headed

by DJ Darren, karaoke nights on Saturday from 8 to 11 p.m. bring out a crowd that packs the restaurant to capacity. Regular live music events on the outdoor patio on Sundays rival the karaoke nights in terms of popularity.

“The response for that has been RAW BOOST: The shrimp ceviche has been on the Mother Shuckers menu for a year and became a bright great, especially because there are a lot topping on raw oysters after a customer recommendation. of local bands around here who have a very big following,” Maxwell said. “It for the fine dining experience either,” she said. opens up people coming here who are “We still try to keep the presentation looking following the band.”

According to Maxwell, the weekend gatherings clean and nice, and it’s consistent. I really think are good ways to introduce the local community the kitchen has it down.” m to their take on oysters while Mother Shuckers New Times Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal, from also becomes a welcoming hangout spot. the Sun’s sister paper, is ready to slurp her weight “Overall, the vibe is still a sea shanty. You’re in raw oysters. Send hot sauce to brajagopal@ not obviously coming in to do a fine dining experience, but then again you don’t have to pay newtimesslo.com.

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