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Hunger Games: Full price prequel [24]

In Gregg Hart’s first session as an Assembly member, he tackled floods, oil, housing, homelessness, and more [6]

Freshman year

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

NEWS

Cuesta educators speak against Dana Reserve [4]

ARTS

Elverhoj pays homage to Eyvind [22]

EATS

Thai Hut in Orcutt [25]

Contents

NOVEMBER 23 - NOVEMBER 30, 2023 VOL. 24 NO. 39

A

SCAN FOR MORE INFO

ssemblymember Gregg Hart’s first year representing Santa Barbara County and southern SLO County at the state level started with recordbreaking storms and the damage that followed. He capped off his first session by getting eight of the bills he introduced signed into law. Hart advocated for emergency funding for the Central Coast, opened an office in Santa Maria, and started a Central Coast legislators caucus. Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor spoke with Hart about his year and what comes next [6].

In addition, you can read about what Cuesta College’s faculty has to say about the Dana Reserve project in Nipomo [4]; celebrating a late Solvang artist at the Elverhoj [22]; and Thai Hut [25].

Camillia Lanham editor

ONE YEAR IN: Assemblymember Gregg Hart recently wrapped up his first legislative session representing the 37th District.

Cover photo courtesy of Gregg Hart > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

NEWS

News Briefs ...............................................................................4 Political Watch.........................................................................4 Spotlight......................................................................................8

Arts Briefs ............................................................................... 22

MOVIES

Reviews .................................................................................... 24

OPINION

Web Poll ....................................................................................10 Mayfield.....................................................................................10 Canary ........................................................................................ 12

Now you can TEXT 805-361-8400 for an appointment.

Also reach us on our website chat, on the Patient Portal or call 866-614-4636. Se habla español. www.chccc.org

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CLASSIFIEDS, HOME, AND REAL ESTATE .....................................................27

EVENTS CALENDAR

COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST

Hot Stuff ....................................................................................14

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News POLITICAL WATCH • U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) and 75 other members of the New Democrat Coalition urged congressional leaders to schedule a vote on President Joe Biden’s supplemental request for security and humanitarian aid in support of Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, as well as humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians in Gaza and funding to help address immigration and backlogs and security challenges at the U.S. southern border, according to a Nov. 17 statement from Carbajal’s office. Biden’s request would provide approximately $60 billion in funding to support Ukraine, $14 billion to support Israel, and $10 billion in humanitarian assistance for civilians in Gaza, the West Bank, and elsewhere. It also includes $7 billion to reinforce the U.S.’s Indo-Pacific allies like Taiwan and $14 billion to improve immigration processes, reduce immigration court backlogs, and address security challenges at the U.S. southern border. “The United States cannot afford to hide from the challenges of the times or the burdens of our responsibilities. As was the case nearly a century ago, how we respond in this moment will have grand implications for generations to come,” Carbajal and his colleagues wrote in a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson. “It will be far less perilous and less costly for the United States, in blood and treasure, to ensure Russia, Hamas, and Iran are defeated in their current wars than it will be if we falter, and our adversaries achieve strategic victories against Ukraine, Israel, or Taiwan.”

• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California), chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Fisheries, Water, and Wildlife, convened a hearing titled “Challenges and Opportunities to Facilitate Wildlife Movement and Improve Migration Corridors.”

Chairing his third subcommittee hearing this Congress, Padilla heard testimony from wildlife experts examining challenges and solutions to facilitating wildlife migration and movement corridors across public, tribal, and private lands. Padilla questioned Charlton Bonham, director of California Department of Fish and Wildlife; Madeleine West, director of the Center for Public Lands, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership; and Richard King, the chief game warden for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Padilla began his remarks by highlighting the issues that wildlife face during migration. He noted the impacts that humanmade barriers have on traditional migration wildlife corridors, especially as climate change increases migration pressures. The disruption of wildlife corridors also endangers human lives: Padilla said that wildlife-involved crashes kill more than 150 drivers every year in America and cost between $8 million to $12 billion annually. He called for a bipartisan bill that supports voluntary conservation efforts throughout the country, including increased federal funding for state and local research and data gathering, or onthe-ground projects that restore wildlife corridors.

During his rounds of questioning, Padilla asked about bipartisan support for restoring or preserving wildlife habitat connectivity and migration corridors and improvements in GPS and mapping technology, and he heard about the importance of federal and state land acquisitions through partnerships and land trusts to bolster habitat connectivity.

• Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that California recently awarded more than $149 million in grants and tax credits to 12 companies, creating nearly 6,000 full-time jobs and bringing an estimated $1.3 billion in private investment over the next five years, according to a Nov. 17 statement from the governor’s office.

The funding from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) CalCompletes program, is going to companies expanding their operations in California and advancing the state’s semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, building the next generation of electric vehicles and electric aircrafts. “Investing in ingenuity and innovation works, and no place does it better than California,” Newsom said in a statement. “Businesses like the ones we’re investing in today will drive the future of our economy, helping create thousands of good-paying jobs and bringing billions in economic investment to communities up and down the state.” m

➤ In the Assembly [6]

➤ Spotlight [8] COURTESY PHOTO BY BILL MARR

acres for wildlife to roam,” Hendricks said.

The Nature Conservancy—a global conservation and research organization working in 70 different countries—owns the property, conducts research, and manages the land, said Mark Reynolds, the conservancy’s lead scientist and director for the Point Conception Research Institute at the preserve.

“One of the most exciting things about PERMANENTLY PRESERVED: A new conservation easement made this as a new preserve possible by Vandenberg Space Force Base will forever protect the Jack is this part of the and Laura Dangermond Preserve, which sits just south of Vandenberg coastline is rich in along the Gaviota Coast and is considered a biodiversity hot spot. history and significance for biodiversity and it’s Dangermond Preserve now never been available for study,” Reynolds said.

“It’s honestly like we’ve discovered a new Channel permanently protected Island, it’s that rich in discovery potential.”

More than 24,000 acres along the Gaviota The Point Conception Research Institute Coast will be permanently kept safe from development thanks to a $15 million conservation has worked with 40 other research institutions, conducted more than 100 research projects, easement between the Land Trust for Santa and hosted more than 200 scientists, he said.

Barbara County, The Nature Conservancy, and Researchers have studied the role of predators Vandenberg Space Force Base. having coastal access, the land’s freshwater “The 24,000 acres we are talking about here systems and groundwater recharge, and the are a globally important biodiversity hot spot and impact biodiversity has on climate resilience. a culturally important, sacred place for people “We’re also working with NASA in pioneering living in this area for 10,000 years,” said Meredith state-of-the-art Earth observation to this Hendricks, the executive director of the Land landscape to understand drought, fire, and the Trust for Santa Barbara County. role of invasive species in this ecosystem through Conservationists and scientists have been a program using hyperspectral imagery to take a working to preserve this land, now known as the fine-scale look at vegetation in this region—which Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve, just south has never been done before,” Reynolds said. of Vandenberg since the early 2000s, Hendricks The institute also wants to open its doors said. The Land Trust and Nature Conservancy to other educational opportunities and initially tried to preserve the land in 2005, but has partnered with UC Santa Barbara for its owner, Bixby Corporation, instead sold it to a private buyer who subdivided the land into 64 lots undergraduate and graduate programs, and the Lompoc Unified School District to host day for home development. programs in environmental education.

In 2017, the Nature Conservancy ended two“We believe there’s an opportunity to provide year negotiations with the new owners to buy the education for the next environmental leaders,” property for $165 million and transition the land Reynolds said. “The faculty and students have into a nature preserve, Hendricks said. While the leaned into this and have done many grad student entities were thrilled, the purchase didn’t change the existing zoning and subdivision. However, this projects and class projects; it’s really exciting.”

—Taylor O’Connor new easement gets rid of the zoning and unifies the land.

Cuesta College’s “It’s a legally binding contract that limits development potential of a property forever, faculty opposes the agreed to by the land owner, but it stays with the Dana Reserve project land no matter who owns it,” Hendricks said.

After two days of discussion over the “The Land Trust will have a forever relationship controversial Dana Reserve development, Cuesta with this place and [an] obligation that nothing College’s academic senate decided to vote in happens related to subdivision or development.” opposition of the proposed project.

The $15 million comes from the U.S. The vote came on Oct. 27, less than a week after Department of Defense’s Readiness and Cuesta College President Jill Stearns spoke during Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) public comment at the Oct. 23 SLO County program, which preserves land around military Planning Commission meeting, highlighting bases to avoid land use conflicts near bases, she the fact that in addition to the project’s proposed said.

1,300-plus housing units, the development aims “Vandenberg made all the difference, they to house a South County campus for Cuesta. provided 100 percent of the funding. Because “Mr. Tompkins has shared with the Cuesta The Nature Conservancy sold the easement at College board of trustees his generous intent to a discount, we get to count this for other deals donate property for an educational site as part of around the base,” Hendricks said. “Not only the planned reserve,” Stearns said. “This property is this a permanent conservation, but we get aligns very well with the needs of Cuesta College to explore more conservation opportunities for a South County location.” around Vandenberg, which makes this deal more Stearns added that hiring and keeping Cuesta important.” employees at any level is challenging due to a lack This is the “biggest deal” for the people who of affordable housing, which the reserve would work in local conservation, she added, because the help. area has more than 600 species of animals, 6,000 “Cuesta College has a permanent full-time acres of coast live oak woodlands, and 300 acres workforce of just under 900 employees that of wetlands. expands during the academic year to over 11,050 “The California Coast is chopped up, and if you inclusive of temporary and part-time employees,” go north or south, right on the edge of the beach she said. “In an average year, we hire 70 new permanent employees, and like other large there’s a lot of development; there’s not a lot of places in California where you can have 24,000 employers in San Luis Obispo County, we lose

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

November 23 - November 30, 2023 great candidates because of the housing challenge.

In fact, affordable housing is the No. 1 reason cited by those who decline offers of employment.”

Although Stearns has been speaking on behalf of Cuesta College when it comes to the Dana Reserve, Cuesta College English professor Wesley Sims said that faculty has been left out of the conversation.

“I’m on the South County Task Force, and that’s made up of administration and faculty, and this never came before us in that task force. It never came to the larger faculty,” Sims told the Sun. “So, you know, to me, it kind of speaks volumes when you’re not bringing these decisions to faculty, and I think the reason they didn’t want to bring it to faculty is because they knew we’d be in opposition.”

The South County Task Force is charged with providing input regarding what programs, certificates, degrees, courses, and/or curriculum may be well suited to South County. Cuesta currently leases a classroom at Arroyo Grande High School to offer limited classes to South County residents.

Sims said that faculty is dealing with confusion around this project because until the Oct .13 and 27 academic senate meetings, most faculty members knew nothing about Cuesta’s role in the Dana Reserve.

“The really frustrating thing from our perspective was that faculty were uniformly against the proposed Dana Reserve but there were a few members on senate who really thought we couldn’t be speaking [on it],” he said. “We usually wouldn’t bring a thing like this to the academic senate but because Cuesta’s administration is showing up to these meetings and speaking in favor—they might not be saying the words in favor but they’re speaking in favor—is really misleading because faculty aren’t for it.”

Sims said that he doesn’t want the public to get confused about where a majority of the college stands regarding the Dana Reserve.

“Faculty make up a large portion of the college, and I don’t believe the students are for it either, so I feel like Cuesta is getting a really bad name by the admin. who are supporting this publicly, and we want to jump in and say, ‘Hey, you know, not so fast,’” he said. “There’s a lot of opposition here and that comes from the faculty.”

During the Oct. 27 academic senate meeting, one of the senators said that this project doesn’t align with the college’s values because it promotes environmental and cultural destruction.

“Biologists educated us about the environmental destruction in the [environmental impact report], the Northern Chumash Tribal Council educated us about the possible destruction of the cultural heritage,” the senator said during the meeting. “As a bioarcheologist, I’ve worked several projects in the area, and the community we served educated us about their concerns. Let our actions reflect our values.”

During the meetings, senate members were presented with a six-page document from the Northern Chumash Tribal Council, which mentions that the Dana Reserve “completely ignores the Chumash history in Nipomo and lacks any discussion of local sites of importance to which the resources in the project area may be related.”

According to the minutes from the Oct. 27 academic senate meeting, the academic senate council also opposed the development because the project would cause irreparable environmental damage, including the destruction of 3,000 mature oak trees and rare Burton Mesa chaparral habitat.

The Dana Reserve project is slated to go before the SLO County Board of Supervisors on a yet-tobe-determined date.

“That should go to the [Cuesta] board of trustees on probably the first Wednesday in December, but it’s really not as if there will be any more action other than informing the board

NEWS continued page 5

of trustees that we’ve passed this resolution,” Sims said. “What we’re really hoping is that we can show up to the [SLO County] Board of Supervisors meeting and say there’s a more complicated relationship with Cuesta College and you know faculty are in opposition.”

—Samantha Herrera

Solvang committee, residents weigh in on Merkantile lighting dispute

After two locals voiced their opposition to some proposed LED-illuminated signage in Solvang, city staff and the project applicant shed some light on the controversy at a recent public hearing.

The proposal in question was brought before Solvang’s Design Review Committee (DRC) at its Nov. 16 meeting where it was ultimately approved, but not without some tweaking.

Staff recommended that the committee approve a sign package that would allow new face-lit signage at Cottage Primary Care on Old Mission Drive, in the Merkantile shopping center.

Solvang resident Gabriel Rossetti criticized the size of one of the signs in the package as “kind of out of whack” and the project’s lighting approach during public comment.

“This is not a retail business that needs to attract walk-ins. This is not an urgent care. This is where people will come for set appointments,” Gabriel said. “My understanding is their hours are from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. So there’s no reason for a lit sign.”

Gabriel and Carrie Rossetti, who also spoke during public comment, both said they were concerned that Cottage Primary Care would keep the proposed signage lit overnight because New Frontiers Natural Marketplace, also located in the Merkantile center, has been allowed to do so.

“We’re just here to address the impact on the community with the additional light that’s being requested to be added on Old Mission Drive,” said Carrie, who said the proposed face-lit signage would “diminish our night sky unnecessarily” and shine into residential homes across the street from the Merkantile shopping center.

Carrie also pointed out that there’s already an illuminated directional sign on the corner of Old Mission Drive and Alamo Pintado Road that advertises the Merkantile’s various businesses by name.

Scott Allen, director of construction for the Cottage Primary Care project, asked to speak during public comment and immediately addressed the Rossettis’ complaints.

“To help with concerns, we will only keep the sign lit during business hours,” Allen said on the project applicant’s behalf. “We do not want to make it look like we’re open after hours.”

Committee Member Esther Jacobsen Bates motioned to approve the signage package with some revisions, including explicit verbiage on the business hours timeframe and one caveat that a particular sign facing Old Mission Drive not be illuminated.

“The master plan does allow for illumination,” said Planning Manager Rafael Castillo, who directed the DRC’s attention to the Merkantile’s sign program—approved by Solvang’s Board of Architectural Review in 2017—included in the staff report.

Bates amended the motion to exclude the proposed illumination ban on a single sign before it was approved 4-0 (committee member Jennifer Dryden Hess was absent).

Castillo added before the end of the meeting that he was available afterward if any members of the public wanted to discuss code compliance issues in relation to face-lit signage at businesses in the Merkantile center. m —Caleb Wiseblood

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

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).

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News

COVER

In the Assembly

PHOTO COURTESY OF GREGG HART’S OFFICE

Housing and nonprofits

The housing supply-demand imbalance is causing home prices and rents to rise the ability of working people to Gregg Hart’s first year as a state Assembly member “beyond afford,” Hart said, and the state has been pushing local governments to build more housing.

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR As Santa Barbara County works to approve its rom helping manage record-setting storm damages to Housing Element to plan for development through raising the benchmarks for Big Oil, Gregg Hart jumped right 2031, Hart said he’s noticed less resistance because he into his role as the Assembly member for the 37th District, thinks people are recognizing the severity of the crisis representing Santa Barbara County and southern SLO County. and how it relates to homelessness.

“I feel like my first year was very successful, particularly as a Housing people first is key to alleviating new legislator,” Hart told the Sun. “The first big challenge was homelessness, a lesson Hart believes the county is that I [was] used to a local government level—five supervisors, seven City Council members—what you need to be successful is a learning through the Dignity Moves housing projects in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria. simple math problem.”

“Those are really powerful examples of what we Working with 80 Assembly members and 40 state senators can do to really quickly build affordable housing and made getting legislation passed more complicated and daunting, get them the services they need to get people back so Hart helped launch the first Central Coast Caucus—which on track, and that model is what we need to be doing includes 10 representatives from Ventura to Santa Cruz counties. statewide,” he said.

“Having 10 legislators has really improved the visibility in our The California Senate introduced a bill in February area, and I think that will have an impact with the budget and that would open up vacant land across the state for laws because we are speaking with a unified voice,” he said. “opportunity housing projects” similar to Dignity He helped allocate $8 million in state funding toward local Moves, but the bill is still being amended, according to projects, and eight of his bills will go into effect on Jan. 1, LegiScan.

2024. He also opened the first North County office for state In order to support nonprofits that serve California’s representatives in Santa Maria. most vulnerable communities, including individuals “Having an office in Santa Maria will be really critical to our outreach and providing constituent services in North County. We experiencing homelessness, Hart authored a bill that would allow nonprofits receiving a state grant or don’t want people to have to drive to Santa Barbara to access our Act now! contract to get 25 percent of their payment in advance, time,” he said.

Send any news he said. or story tips to news@santamariasun.com.

Nonprofits rely on reimbursement models and are Storm recovery often forced to take out loans to cover costs while they In Hart’s first month as a legislator, record-breaking winter wait for state grants and contracts to begin, with one storms drenched Santa Barbara County.

YEAR IN REVIEW: In his first year as a state Assembly member, Gregg nonprofit paying $28,000 in interest while waiting for “It was very intense and a really difficult time here. The county Hart had eight bills signed into legislation, helped allocate $8 million to Santa was looking for help from the government and to declare our area state payments, according to Hart’s office.

Barbara County and southern SLO County projects, opened the first state “That’s a big problem for nonprofits, getting office in North County, and helped create the first Central Coast Caucus. a natural disaster,” Hart said.

Hart advocated for a county project that would help realign the compensated [from the state] takes six to eight months and … it prevents a lot of nonprofits from moving Santa Maria River and install a levee in Guadalupe, but the state “There are other regulatory agencies that have much more forward on state grants,” he told the Sun. couldn’t approve it because of the cost-to-benefit ratio—which consequential penalties. The idea was to model those other Hart said he worked with the California Nonprofits looks at the cost of the project versus the cost of what it would be structures and bring those up to date,” Hart said.

Association, which lobbied for a package of bills, but only protecting.

According to ProPublica, the California Geologic Energy two were signed into law. He added that he’s hoping to work “It was a bitter pill to realize there was no path for what the Management Division (CalGEM)—the state agency that oversees closely with the association and advance more bills in the next county was trying to accomplish with an existing funding oil and gas production—issued 66 enforcement orders between legislative cycle. allocation,” Hart said. “The scope of disaster assistance is limited.

2018 and 2020, with only 11 orders reaching compliance. In 2020, There isn’t enough money to fix every situation, and this year was CalGEM issued more than $190,000 in civil penalties and failed Big Oil regulations particularly dire because rains and floods were pervasive across to collect a single dollar.

While Hart was still sitting on the Santa Barbara County the state.”

“The taxpayers end up picking up the tab on that situation and Board of Supervisors, he watched Greka Oil Company wreak In August, Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order to it’s not right. There’s no way this should be the outcome,” Hart havoc on the county, go bankrupt, and abandon its wells—leaving allow local agencies to work in waterways in order to remove said. the state with the cleanup bill and the largest oil cleanup project debris before Nov. 1. Knowing the county would not be allocated The bill allows CalGEM to refer cases to local district attorney’s in state history. funding and they were still waiting for an official response, offices for more effective enforcement, he said. It also allows Hart contacted county officials directly to let them know that if “They were a really bad operator and didn’t invest in CalGEM to seek injunctive relief from a Superior Court to compel they wanted to take any preventative action, they needed to act maintaining their equipment and facilities, and it was extremely operators to correct violations that, if persistently neglected, can immediately, he said. After Hart’s advice, the county invested $8 difficult to get them to be responsive to the regulatory agencies,” deteriorate into worsening conditions that could threaten public million in a debris and sediment removal project.

Hart said. health, safety, and the environment.

“Doing what the county’s doing, they are going to prevent an The oil company—which spilled about 1.1 million gallons of “Ideally, it would sharpen the proactive response that environmental disaster in the future, and there has to be a way to crude oil and abandoned 171 unplugged wells—was the impetus companies would build into their infrastructure so they would fund that,” Hart said. for AB 631: one of Hart’s bills that was signed by the governor. It While there are bond measures that try to address disaster updates oil regulations and increases penalty fees for violating the understand the consequences are serious,” Hart said. “It can’t be preparedness in the legislative process, the state doesn’t have the law, he said. the cost of doing business, you have to comply.” m money to cover all the measures, Hart said. Those measures will “The state regulatory penalty system isn’t modern, it’s an need to be narrowed down, but Hart said he’ll advocate for as artifact,” Hart said, adding that penalty fees didn’t make much of Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ much funding the state can afford. santamariasun.com. an impact on multimillion-dollar oil companies.

F

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WALKABILITY: Santa Barbara County 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann (right) along with Buellton Mayor David King (far left) accepted $425,000 to develop a portion of the Santa Ynez Regional Trail intended to run between River View Park and Avenue of Flags, where it will then cross into the south side of the Santa Ynez River toward the unincorporated area and Solvang.

From Buellton to Solvang A new state grant helps kick-start the Santa Ynez Regional Trail

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

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

uellton recently received $425,000 in state funding to take a big step in connecting the Santa Ynez Valley through outdoor recreation.

“We live in the valley in particular because we love the outdoors, but we’re not walking and biking because we don’t have the infrastructure to support that, and people really want that,” Santa Barbara County 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann told the Sun. “The valley used to be a place for walking and riding, but now as it’s become more suburban, it’s become more dangerous.”

Highway 246 is the only roadway that connects Buellton to Santa Ynez and other areas in the Santa Ynez Valley, but the roadway is too large with speed limits that are too fast to be safe for a sidewalk or trail. Hartmann—an advocate for trails and outdoor recreation opportunities for her constituents as supervisor representing the Santa Ynez Valley—has been working alongside local jurisdictions to create the Santa Ynez Regional Trail.

The trail would run along the Santa Ynez River and connect Buellton to Solvang, running through Buellton’s Botanic Garden to the western edge of Buellton, to Highway 101 and into Solvang, Hartmann said. The project will be done in segments—with the first segment, based in Buellton, receiving the $425,000 state grant to kick off construction. “[The city of Buellton] already own[s] and control[s] the land; that makes it probably the least fraught in terms of construction,” she said. “This money is kick-starting the project now into action and getting us all to realize that there is a way to do it because it’s such an important, transformative project for the community.”

The Santa Ynez Regional Trail was first documented in 2019 in the Santa Ynez Valley Bike Master Plan, but discussions for a regional trail had been going on for a couple of decades, Hartmann said.

“Trail paths and bike lanes are really tricky in that our regional transportation organization, SBCAG [Santa Barbara County Association of Governments] doesn’t really have anybody that does [trail] stuff,” she said. “Our Public Works Department has alternative transportation, but there’s no home for trails—it falls between Public Works and Parks, between jurisdictions.”

The city of Santa Barbara has figured out how to create trail networks within city limits, and it’s easier to take action in one city than across different jurisdictions, but local officials are determined, Hartmann said.

Buellton and Solvang city officials, Santa Barbara County, and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians have been working with one

another to figure out how to get the trail up and running, with efforts to apply for a California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) sustainable transportation planning grant to continue trail construction efforts.

“I’m hoping the Recreation Master Plan will elevate this question and bring it forward to SBCAG. I would like to bring up that they should actually be the home for this kind of work,” Hartmann said. “It’s very similar to what they are doing with roads across jurisdictions.”

If the agencies receive a sustainable communities grant, there would be a few months of hearings and then 18 months of design engineering; Hartmann estimated that it would take two years until construction could begin. The $425,000 is “a shot in the arm” for this project, and it could lead to more opportunities for community input on what they’d like to see in the trail.

“We’re really excited for what it could mean for connectivity in the valley and taking traffic off the 246 and be a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors as well,” she said.

Highlights

• The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors is now accepting resumes from qualified county residents who are interested in serving as a board-appointed trustee on the county’s retirement board. The retirement board governs Santa Barbara County Employees’ Retirement System, which administers the county’s pension plans and pension-related benefits for employees and retirees. The board is made up of nine members and two alternate members, and the Board of Supervisors is the appointing authority for four of the trustee positions. Complete an application available at countyofsb.org/2839/boards-commissions-andcommittees. Direct questions to the clerk of the Board of Supervisors at (805) 568-2240.

• Tri-County Regional Energy Network (3C-REN) was selected for Phase 1 of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Buildings Upgrade Prize to win $400,000 toward its Climate Smart Multifamily Property Upgrade Program. The goal of the program is to include technical and financial assistance for electric vehicle charging infrastructure at low-income or affordable housing properties that are also building energy efficiency and electrification upgrades. Phase 2 involves creating a detailed, actionable implementation plan that will direct even more climate-friendly investments into the region. m Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.

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andi Tangvall Fairbrother, a longtime resident of Montecito and Goleta, passed on Nov. 14, 2023 at the age of 93. She was born in Brooklyn, New York, on Sept. 21, 1930 to Norwegian immigrants Marie Tangvall and Haakon Foss.

Taught by her mother the love of animals, Randi grew up with cats and kittens before the days of spay/neuter. At the age of 60 Randi learned about the TNR (trap, neuter, release) and launched the nonprofit Catalyst for Cats, starting in Santa Barbara, then expanding county-wide. A pioneer in animal advocacy, Randi spent decades improving the lives of cats.

Randi is survived by children Russell and Kaia, grandchildren Amanda and Leah, and great granddaughter Annora.

Son Byron preceded her in death.

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57% Gathering around the Festivus pole for the Airing of Grievances.

43% Devouring turkey and other Thanksgiving fixings.

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COMMENTARY

➤ Canary [12]

An interfaith inquiry

interests to have a more democratic Palestine on their borders. It’s also not in any of Two faith leaders—one Jewish, one Muslim— their interests to have Hamas (because it is Iran’s share perspectives on war, peace, and history exist proxy, and they all hate Iran).

Iran’s stated goal is wiping

BY JOHN ASHBAUGH out Israel completely. Its proxy militias, Hamas and Editor’s note: This commentary originally ran in Hezbollah (are) both well-armed, well-trained (and) our sister paper, New Times, on Nov. 2, and we on Israel’s borders. Hamas exists for the purpose updated the number of casualties on both sides of killing Jews. Through Hamas, Iran has inflicted with data from the Associated Press. great physical and psychological pain on Israel, and caused a major upheaval in internal Israeli politics. … he tragic spasm of war in Israel and Palestine Who represents the Palestinians for the purpose shocks the senses. Hamas militants launched of signing a peace treaty? Hamas was elected by the their vicious attack into Israel on Oct. 7, killing Gazans in 2006 and there hasn’t been an election 1,400 and taking hundreds hostage. Israel struck back, killing more than 11,000 in Gaza to date. In the since. A lot of Gazans don’t like Hamas. The West Bank is controlled by the Palestinian Authority (PA).

West Bank, Palestinian protestors clash with Israeli … Who does Israel make peace with? Hamas and Defense Forces and Jewish militants. the PA don’t like each other. How can there be a twoThis troubled land, steeped in centuries of state solution if the Palestinians can’t agree on one of martyrs’ blood lies at the crossroads of Judaism, the two states?

Christianity, and Islam. How, in the name of God/ The essence of Judaism, and its core value, is The Yahweh/Allah, is such savage warfare even possible?

In this region where so many profess sincere religious Golden Rule (Leviticus 19:18). As I write this, my dog faith, why do so many suffer from the carnage of war? is staring at me with a face that says, “And how’s that been working for you?” I think that religion is the I consulted two friends—one Jewish, one problem, not the solution. There can only be a political Muslim—to address this question: solution, which is not going to be “faith-driven.”

Richard Carsel, a retired attorney, a leader in Yet another key value in Judaism is optimism. I Congregation Ohr Tzafon in Atascadero, and a believe that there can and will be a political solution frequent speaker at interfaith gatherings in SLO, which will allow Palestinians and Israelis to live and Rushdi Cader, an emergency physician and at peace in their own lands: Each with access to a leader in our local Muslim community. Rushdi their holy sites in the other’s land; with the integrity feels called to Gaza to stanch the bleeding— of the borders of each land internationally and literally—of its besieged children. meaningfully guaranteed; with each side protected I asked them to address these questions in 150 from acts of terrorism on their lands from the other; to 200 words. I also asked: What are the underlying and with enforceable contracts between citizens of values of our faiths—values that we hold in each land. common—that might lead to a lasting solution in Slogans are not going to work. Good guy, bad guy the Middle East? doesn’t work. There has to be a political reason why Here are their responses: both sides finally agree to make peace. Remember, one does not make peace with a friend—it takes at least two enemies to make peace. It can be done.

Richard Carsel From a political perspective, it shouldn’t be “perplexing” why the cradle of three religions has Dr. Rushdi Cader a long history of “such savage warfare.” It’s a simple Editor’s note: Rushdi Cader read Richard Carsel’s real estate problem. The land is holy to each of them, piece and commented on it. and they can’t all have the same land. Add to that I agree that long-term solutions must include “religious” issues and it’s not really complicated. justice and security for both sides. I, too, have Israel is surrounded by dictatorships or my criticisms and kudos for both Israel and the kingdoms (except for Lebanon, a failed state and the Palestinians and thoughts on long-term solutions, headquarters of Hezbollah). It’s not in any of their

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but more pressing is what we have watched unfold on and since Oct. 7.

In the past six weeks we have seen 1,200 Israelis murdered by Hamas … and nearly 10 times that number by Israel (including 4,100 children). Adding to this is the collective punishment and war crimes against a population of 2.3 million innocent Palestinians locked in an open-air prison, cut off from food, water, fuel, medicine, electricity, while being bombed. This is a historic atrocity in response to a preceding historic atrocity. … Israel’s leadership and military is blind with rage and has shown a degree of uncommon cruelty, inconsistent with the teachings of Judaism. Hamas and Israel must both be condemned for their actions. As a nation supporting such atrocities, we are also culpable.

Two hundred words are not needed to communicate the most pressing advocacy regarding what’s happening in Gaza and Israel—six words will suffice: “Stop killing civilians, return the innocent.”

Brave Jews in New York City have broadcast a message of solidarity with the people of Gaza, “Not in my name,” and, “Let Gaza live.” Now more than ever, a united voice for peace, justice, and reconciliation is needed.

The number of children killed and wounded in Gaza is now nearly equal to the number of children in the Atascadero Unified School District. It is quite horrific and on a biblical scale. Their lives are pure hell. Silence in my heart feels to be complicity— especially given our role in supporting this mayhem.

A deeper analysis can take place when hostages are returned to their families and the entire people of Gaza are allowed access to basic human needs.

It’s shameful; all of us have a responsibility to speak up. ... If we believe in God, we will most certainly be answerable. m John Ashbaugh seeks peace in this community and throughout the world. Send a response for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.

LETTERS Dig beyond ‘alternative facts’

In the Nov. 16 issue of the Sun letters section, John Texeira makes some salient points about how the national debt and the costs of inflation are impacting us all (“Bidenomics led to inflation, increased costs for consumers”).

Unfortunately, he misread some of the factors leading to these problems. The national debt is indeed an issue, but if one looks back at its history (feel free to check) we find that the times it has risen the most have been under the Republican administrations of Reagan, Bush, and Trump. It makes sense; when you institute huge tax cuts, have less money coming in, and spending cuts don’t match the lost revenue, then debt will increase. Contrastingly under the Clinton and Obama administrations, the debt increases were far less. So far, the Biden administration seems to be echoing that trend.

John also echos the popular, but false, right-wing talking point that the Biden administration is waging a “war on fossil fuels,” increasing the cost of gasoline at the pump. If that’s so, then explain to me why fossil fuel production in the U.S. is nearing, if not already at, an all-time high. American oil production in the first week of October hit 13.2 million barrels per day, passing the previous record set in 2020 by 100,000 barrels (feel free to check).

Not only that, the administration just greenlit the Willow project in Alaska, which could produce up to 180,000 barrels of oil a day at its peak. If that’s a “war on fossil fuels” they’re doing a pretty lousy job.

Maybe Chevron and ExxonMobil’s record profits they reported earlier this year (and what they did with them) might tell us more about the prices at the pump.

I admire the concerns that John, and others like him, have for the people affected by the rising costs of living, but we should all dig a little deeper into the causes instead of falling into the trap of trusting those sources or politicians spouting “alternative facts” that stroke our own confirmation biases.

Dean Thompson Los Osos

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

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Opinion

Disapproval and disarray

C

Building Excellence On The Central Coast for 30+ Years

A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE

uesta College Superintendent and President Jill Stearns has been singing the praises of the 1,300-housing-unit Dana Reserve project in Nipomo, touting the space it’s allocating to a new South County campus for the college, and advocating for all the “affordable” housing it’s going to bring to the area.

She’s toured the public meeting circuit, speaking at listening sessions and advocating for it at government meetings, including the SLO County Planning Commission’s meetings during the last week in October.

“This property aligns very well with the needs of Cuesta College for a South County location,” she said at a recent SLO County Planning Commission meeting.

Oof. I bet now she wishes she had consulted with the faculty first.

Cuesta’s faculty feels extremely differently— the college’s academic senate felt the need to push back against the idea that all of Cuesta supports the project. Not only that, a member of the college’s South County Task Force said the project hadn’t come before the task force, which is supposed to advise the college about what’s best for the region.

So, the task force that’s in charge of advising Cuesta about actions in South County didn’t even know there were plans in the works to build a South County campus? That’s crazy!

“It kind of speaks volumes when you’re not bringing these decisions to faculty, and I think the reason they didn’t want to bring it to faculty is because they knew we’d be in opposition,” said task force member and Cuesta College

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English Professor Wesley Sims.

Stearns, why didn’t you bring the decision to faculty? She didn’t return the request for comment from the Sun’s reporter, so I’m guessing she doesn’t want to say.

Sims said most of the college’s faculty was in the dark about Cuesta’s role in the Dana Reserve project until recently, when it came before the academic senate, which voted to take a stand against the reserve due to environmental concerns (like chopping down 3,000 mature oak trees) and cultural concerns (like indigenous sites that it said should be protected and aren’t).

“I feel like Cuesta is getting a really bad name by the admin. who are supporting this publicly,” Sims said.

So the faculty publicly rebuked Stearns for her support and spread the word. She might be feeling sheepish or she might not. Either way, it’s not a good look for Cuesta.

Just like chopping down thousands of oaks isn’t a good look for the Dana Reserve developer.

But that doesn’t seem to be stopping the project, which is headed for the SLO County Board of Supervisors for a final decision.

But maybe it’s like 37th District Assemblymember Gregg Hart says it is and people are less resistant to development in general because they’re finally starting to recognize the severity of the housing crisis and how it relates to homelessness.

Maybe 3,000-plus oak trees is a small price to pay for 1,300 new housing units—some of which Stearns swears will be affordable to the faculty hired to work for Cuesta.

The project may not have moved forward even five short years ago. But we’re in a new era now, a post-pandemic era where the multiple crises we were already facing are worse. ❍

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Hot Stuff

10-DAY CALENDAR: NOVEMBER 23 — DECEMBER 3, 2023

WINTER WONDERLAND

Upcoming Julefest events slated for downtown Solvang this year include the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony in Solvang Park on Friday, Dec. 1, at 5 p.m., and the 2023 Solvang Julefest Parade, which will travel along the city’s main streets on Saturday, Dec. 2, starting at 11 a.m. The theme of this year’s parade is “My Favorite Christmas Movie.” Visit solvangusa.com for more details on the full Julefest lineup.

—Caleb Wiseblood PHOTO COURTESY OF CENTRAL COAST PICTURES

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 & Wednesdays. Beginner & advance classes.

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CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: BUTTON TREE CANVAS Using simple supplies, create a delightful piece of art that can be displayed proudly. Registration is required; for patrons 18 and up. Nov. 27, 4-5:30 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE Classes available for all skill levels.

Class sizes limited. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805937-6753, 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.

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Headlining this debut is Bob Fernandez, along with feature comic Courtney Rainwater, and San Espana. Opening the show is rocker comic Ezra Paco. Arrive early

for best seating. Nov. 30, 7-9 p.m. $20. 773401-2998. highrollertiki.com/. High Roller Tiki Lounge, 433 Alisal Road, Solvang.

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. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. through Nov. 30 805 688 -7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

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. and Dec. 2, 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.

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.

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.

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT 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.

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

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.

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

INDEX Arts.......................................14 Culture & Lifestyle ...........16 Food & Drink .....................20 Music ..................................20

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

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.

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 download and fill out the artist contract on website and bring it in with your artwork. Nov. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. See artist contract. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/ gallery/call-for-artists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey 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.

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. MondaysFridays, 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.

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

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.

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.

NORTH SLO COUNT Y

DEPRISE BRESCIA ART GALLERY: OPEN DAILY Features a large selection of encaustic art, sculpted paintings, art installations, acrylic palette knife paintings, digital art, glass, jewelry, stones,

ARTS continued page 16

www.santamariasun.com • November 23 - November 30, 2023 • Sun • 15

Hot Stuff

NOVEMBER 23 — DECEMBER 3, 2023

ARTS from page 14 fossils, and a butterfly sculpture garden.

DepriseBrescia.com. Deprise Brescia Art Gallery, 829 10th St., Paso Robles.

FIRST SATURDAY: WINE, ART, AND MUSIC Studios on the Park celebrates First Saturdays, a fun tradition of art, wine, and live music-filled evenings at the start of each month. Enjoy meeting artists and seeing rotating exhibitions while enjoying live music and wine from one of the venue’s winery partners. First Saturday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Free; $10 for wine. 805-2389800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

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. 805238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

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. 805286-5993. 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. 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. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. FINE ART PAINTING GROUP SHOW: THE TEXTURE OF LIGHT A group show featuring artists Joan L Brown, Virginia Mack, Patricia Newton, Sandra Sanders, Candle Cranston, Hope Myers, and Brian Johnson. Explore the beautiful enchanting world of winter light and colorful textures.

Nov. 30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. FINE ART PAINTINGS AND GIFTS BY CAROLE MCDONALD California native Carole McDonald creates textured felted bags and pursues her passion for color as a self-taught acrylic and oil painter since moving to the Central Coast. View her vibrant, precise and textural works.

Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Dec. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. FINE ART PAINTINGS BY SPANKY ANDERSON In Spanky Anderson’s own words: “My peripheral vision of the central coast sunrises and sunsets dictate the color palette and brushstrokes onto my

FILE PHOTO BY WENDY THIES SELL

CANYON COMFORT

Santa Maria’s Cottonwood Canyon Winery is one of 10 wineries participating in Christmas on the Trail, held on Saturday, Dec. 2, and Sunday, Dec. 3.

Passport holders during the two-day program will have access to 20 pours of wine from various wineries along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, holiday food and wine pairings, live music, discounts, and more. Visit foxencanyonwinetrail.net for more info.

—C.W. canvas.” Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Nov. 29 Free.

805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP SHOW: WINDWARD TIDES Experience the beauty of the California coast through stunning landscape photography. Artists Karen 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. 805-772-1068. 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

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE UNMET TRANSIT NEEDS UNMETTRANSIT TRANSIT NEEDS UNMET NEEDS UNMET TRANSIT NEEDS Santa Maria Regional Transit (SMRT) is a workshop Santa Maria Regional Transit (SMRT) is inviting thethe public to to a to workshop onon on Santa Maria Regional Transit (SMRT) is inviting inviting thepublic public a workshop Unmet Transit Needs.

Unmet Transit Needs.

Unmet Transit Needs.

WHAT: Unmet Transit Needs Meeting WHAT: Transit Needs Meeting WHAT:Unmet Unmet Transit Needs Meeting WHEN: Thursday December 7, 2023. meeting be held from 4:00 to WHEN: Thursday December 7, 2023.

FirstFirst meeting will will be held WHEN: Thursday December 7, be 2023.

First meeting will be from held 4:00 fromto4:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Second meeting will held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

Second meeting will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

5:00WHERE: p.m. Second meeting will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Santa Maria Public Library Shephard Hall, 1st Floor WHERE: Santa Maria Public Library Shephard Hall, 1st Floor WHERE: Santa Maria Public Library Shephard 1st Floor 421 S. McClelland Street Santa Maria, 93454Hall, or Virtual Outlook Teams 421 S. McClelland Street Santa Maria, CACA 93454 or Virtual Outlook Teams

421 S. McClelland Street Santa Maria, CA 93454 or Virtual Outlook Teams To register for the virtual

4:00-5:00 p.m. Webinar ID: 856 4131 4644

the virtual QR Towebinar, registerscan for the codescan or visit webinar, the QR www.rideSMRT.org code or visit www.rideSMRT.org

5:30-6:30 p.m. Webinar ID: 880 5955 7241

5:30-6:30 p.m. Webinar

p.m.

Webinar If4:00-5:00 you cannot attend the workshop, but would like to provide comments, please ID: comments, 880 5955 7241 ID:If 856 4131 4644 you cannot attend the workshop, but would like to provide mail comments to the City of Santa Maria at 110 S. Pine Street, Suite 221,please mail comments to the City of Santa Maria at 110 S. Pine Street, Suite Santa Maria, CAMaria, 93458.CA Comments may also bemay emailed directly to directly to 221, Santaattend 93458. Comments be emailed Ifsmrtcomments@cityofsantamaria.org you cannot the workshop, but would like also to provide comments, with subject “Unmet Transit Needs.”please subject Transit mailsmrtcomments@cityofsantamaria.org comments to the City of Santawith Maria at “Unmet 110 S. PineNeeds.”

Street, Suite You can also Maria, call (805) 925-0951, ext.

2459 for more information or to provide 221, Santa CA 93458.

Comments may also be emailed directly to You can also call (805) 925-0951, ext. 2459 for more information or to provide comment.

The last day to submit comments Friday, December 2,2,2022. smrtcomments@cityofsantamaria.org withissubject “Unmet Transit Needs.” comment. The last day to submit comments is Friday, December 2022.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), individuals Incan compliance with Americans with Disabilities (ADA), individuals You also callaccommodations (805)the 925-0951, 2459 forinmore information orcontact to provide needing special toext. participate the Act meeting should needingThe special accommodations to participate in the meeting should comment. last day to submit comments is Friday, December 2, SMRT at least three working days prior to the meeting at (805) 928-5624.2022. contact SMRT at least three working days prior to the meeting at (805) In compliance the Americans withlanguage Disabilities Act (ADA), individuals The meeting willwith be Spanish and Mixteco accessible if requested.

Las 928-5624. reuniónes serán accesibles en Español y Mixteco siinsethe solicita.

Favor de llamar needing special accommodations to participate meeting should The meeting will be Spanish and Mixteco accessible if requested. a SMRT al (805)at 925-0951 ext. 2459, paradays máslanguage información del reunión o para contact SMRT least three working prior to the meeting at (805) Las reuniónes serán accesibles en Español y Mixteco si se solicita. Favor de solicitar un intérprete.

928-5624. llamar a SMRT al (805) 925-0951 ext. 2459, para más información del reunión o para solicitar un Spanish intérprete.and Mixteco language accessible if requested.

The meeting will be

16 • Las Sun reuniónes • November serán 23 - November 30, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com accesibles en Español y Mixteco si se solicita. Favor de

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

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

METAL ART BY TRUDI GILLIAM Gilliam creates her sculptures using copper, brass, nickel/silver, and found objects.

This new series of whales and birds uses copper and sea glass. ongoing 805-772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

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. THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy

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

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.

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.

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.

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

A RAINBOW HOLIDAY Directed by Samuel Gottlieb. Presented by By The Sea Productions. Through Dec. 3 my805tix. com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay. SEA GLASS HAMMERED METAL JEWELRY Make beautiful sea glass gifts.

Learn how to drill holes in sea glass (for safety, this will be a demonstration), hammer metal to create, strengthen, and texture and basic jewelry making skills. You’ll take home two stunning sea glass pierced earrings and a necklace.

Preregister. Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-noon $50. 805286-5993. creativemetime.com. Art Center CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 18 Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

Christmas at the Ranch Train Rides

Paso Robles Event Center Mid-State Fairgrounds

Point San Luis Lighthouse: Holiday Tours

Santa Margarita Ranch

Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

By the Sea Productions: A Rainbow Holiday

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

Peaceful Plants: Macrame Plant Holder Class

Laugh Therapy Stand-Up Comedy Show

Orcutt Community Theater: Santa Claus Conquers the Martians

Be Hoppy Tours: Friday Hoppy Hour DEC. 1, 15, 29 Sip of SLO DEC. 2, 16, 30, JAN 13, 27

FRI, SAT, SUN, NOV. 24–DEC. 3 545 Shasta Avenue, Morro Bay

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26 Pianetta Winery, Paso Robles

Chakra Meditation on the Beach

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Pismo Beach Golf Course, Grover Beach

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Paso Lounge, Paso Robles

Holiday Violin Concert: Mischa Lefkowitz

How to Get What You REALLY Want for Christmas! Chair Flair Class w/ Kellee

Avila Beach Civic Association: Santa’s Doggie Parade

Twist on Taylor (Taylor Swift Tribute Band)

Downtown Paso Robles Main Street: 33rd Annual Victorian Teddy Bear Tea

Central Coast Youth Chorus: An Old Fashioned Holiday

Old Town Orcutt Country Christmas: Prior Baird

Bom Booty Birthday Bash (R-Rated Bom Booty Class) SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3 Bare Heart Boudoir, Los Osos

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5 Trilogy at Monarch Dunes, Nipomo

Cambria Community Chorale: It’s the Holiday Season

Mo Betta Jazz: Christmas from Paris with Love

A Merry Monte Mills Holiday Cocktail Party

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15 Club Car Bar, Templeton Mercantile

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8 Bare Heart Boudoir, Los Osos

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 Park Ballroom, Paso Robles

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 Front Street, Avila Beach

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 First Presbyterian Church, SLO

It’s free! Contact us for more info: 2024 SEASON PASS 10 SHOWS MARCH–DECEMBER Various Venues, SLO County

Central Coast Aquarium

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

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 Santa Maria Fairpark

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 The Stockyard at Blast 825 Brewery

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ONGOING EVENTS

SELL TICKETS WITH US! SLOFunny Comedy Show

Vocal Arts Ensemble: Winter Concert Series: Dona Nobis Pacem

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SMCT Holiday Homicide Fundraiser

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12 The Penny, SLO

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

SAT & WED, DEC. 2 THRU DEC. 30

Tours begin & end at The Hub, SLO

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Hunter Ranch Golf Course, Paso Robles

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Maverick Saloon, Santa Ynez

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10 & 17 Community Presbyterian Church, Cambria

ONGOING EVENTS

Cowgirl Christmas

FRI & SAT, NOVEMBER 24 & 25

SLO Botanical Garden, El Chorro Park

&

UPCOMING EVENTS ON MY805TIX.COM

UPCOMING EVENTS ON MY805TIX.COM

Nature Nights

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS THRU DEC. 30 PLUS SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31

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FEATURED EVENTS

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT MY805TIX.COM

www.santamariasun.com • November 23 - November 30, 2023 • Sun • 17

Everybody Can Dance & the Santa Maria Civic Ballet Present

Thanksgiving Weekend Sat & Sun November 25th & 26th TICKETS: ADULTS $25 · CHILDREN $20

Clark Center for the Performing Arts 487 Fair Oaks Ave, Arroyo Grande Tickets available online, by phone or at the box office

ClarkCenter.org

805-489-9444

We wish everyone a

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Open Daily by Reservations | 805.937.4251 7600 Foxen Canyon Road | foxenvineyard.com 18 • Sun • November 23 - November 30, 2023 • www.santamariasun.com

Hot Stuff CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 16 D-AND-D AT THE LIBRARY Join an epic adventure with Dungeons and Dragons at the Library in Shepard Hall. This easy to learn game is the world’s most popular tabletop RPG. Everyone is welcome regardless of previous experience. Space is limited and registration is required. For ages 18 and older. Nov. 25, 1-4:30 p.m.

Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria. org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. 805-937-9750. oasisorcutt. org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.

FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/.

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

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

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

LIBRARY 101: LIBRARY DATABASES AND RESOURCES This workshop is for anyone who wants to learn about the wealth of knowledge which can be accessed with a library card. Follow along as the ongoing event explores a new Library Resource each session. Patrons 18 and older.

Nov. 29, 5-6 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 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.

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.

SMV WEDDING AND QUINCEAÑERA SHOWCASE An exciting event filled with wedding and quinceañera inspiration.

Meet DJs, caterers, florists, venues, and more to make your party dreams a reality.

Prize giveaways held every hour. Nov. 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $10. 805-925-8824. santamariafairpark.com. Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

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.

GINGERBREAD WONDERLAND AT ST. MARK’S Enjoy a showcase of creative holiday gingerbread houses. Dec. 2, 4 p.m.

St. Mark’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, 2901 Nojoqui Ave., Los Olivos.

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. and Dec. 2, 5:30-8:30 p.m. discoverbuellton.com. Santa Ynez Botanic Garden, 151 Sycamore Drive, Buellton.

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/. Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

NOVEMBER 23 — DECEMBER 3, 2023 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 get fun photos, 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.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY HOLIDAY LIGHTS FESTIVAL: AN ENCHANTED WINTER WONDERLAND Embark on a breathtaking journey through a world filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, falling snow, live reindeer, Santa’s corner, and holiday cheer. An immersive experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. Dec. 1, 5-8:30 p.m. and Dec. 2, 5-8:30 p.m. $10-$25. syvholidaylights.com. River View Park, 151 Sycamore Dr., Buellton.

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

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 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.

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

SOLVANG’S 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

LOMPOC CAREGIVER INFORMATION SESSION The community is invited to attend a free caregiver information session at the Dick DeWees Community and Senior Center. The caregiver information session includes education regarding caregiving, resources, a complimentary light meal, wellness activity, raffles, and more. Nov. 29, 5:30 a.m. Free. Dick DeWees Community & Senior Center, 1120 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

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. H St. and I St., Lompoc.

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

Avenue from Oak Park to 9th Street. Or plan to line the streets to enjoy this fun community event. Entry deadline is Friday, Nov. 17. Dec. 2, 10-11 a.m. One new toy. 805473-4580. groverbeach.org. City of Grover Beach, 154 S 8th St., 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. and Tuesdays, Thursdays, 3-6 p.m. through Dec. 21 christmasagvillage.com/home.

Heritage House and Gardens, 126 South Mason, Arroyo Grande.

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 SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.

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

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

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.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A safe place for anyone suffering from the pain of depression. We do not criticize but do share our journey, feelings, and what works for us. We can meet in person or Zoom if needed. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free.

805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

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

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.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity.

Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. galacc.org/events/.

Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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. Dec. 2, 12-4 p.m. Free. 805-548-1894. slorrm.com.

San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, 1940 Santa Barbara Ave, San Luis Obispo.

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.

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Hot Stuff CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 18

Lompoc Valley Master Chorale Presents

Holiday Joy

Saturday, December 2, 2023 7:30pm First United Methodist Church 925 North F Street

Featuring the

LVMC Youth Chorale & Special Guest Instrumentalists Director: Kathleen Abrams Hacker Accompanist: Rachel Mello

Ticket Agents:

The Bookstore

1137 North H Street, Suite Q

South Side Coffee 105 South H Street

Adults: $20 Under 18: $5 (with ID) Children Under 13: Free www.LVMasterChorale.org

THE CENTRAL COAST GUIDE TO EVERYTHING OUTSIDE

Summer/Fall 2023 on stands now!

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 protein and nutrition to those in need. Nov. 23 slofoodbank.org. Online, See website, 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. Donations support WeForest.

805-439-2515. slocohealth.com. SLOCO Health + Wellness, 1957 Santa Barbara Ave., San Luis Obispo.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/ events/. Online, See website, 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.

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

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

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

WOODS HUMANE SOCIETY GIVING TUESDAY DONATION MATCH The John and Frank Sparacio Charitable Foundation will match all donations to Woods Humane Society, up to $20,000, through Giving Tuesday. All donations will be doubled to transform the lives of twice as many dogs and cats. Nov. 28 805-543-9316. woodshumane.org/transform. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH SLO COUNT Y

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.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

Pick up a copy or read it online:

NewTimesSLO.com Next issue: Winter/Spring 2024 Published: February 2024 Reserve ad space by: January 19, 2024

San Luis Obispo County New Times: 805-546-8208 Northern Santa Barbara County Sun: 805-347-1986

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.

ETHNIC FOOD FAIR Featuring homemade foods such as Dolma, Piroshki, Pierogis, stuffed cabbage, and baked goods from Greece, Ukraine, Romania, and Syria. At 10:30 and 11 a.m., Central Coast Harmony Women’s Choir will be performing. Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. No fee.

805-264-2128. odox.org. Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, 877 Francine Lane, Santa Maria.

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.

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

NOVEMBER 23 — DECEMBER 3, 2023 PHOTO COURTESY OF PRESTO PUBLIC RELATIONS

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/.

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 Zion Lutheran Church in San Luis Obispo presents the African Children’s Choir, live in info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing concert, on Wednesday, Nov. 29, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The ensemble will be performing presquilewine.com/club/. selections of popular children’s music, African cultural pieces, and traditional spiritual Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 songs. Admission is free, but donations will be accepted. Visit africanchildrenschoir.com to Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, find out more. Zion Lutheran Church is located at 1010 E. Foothill Blvd., San Luis Obispo.

805-937-8110.

—C.W. SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS: HOLIDAY STYLE WITH CLASSIC HOLIDAY MOVIES SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. room and listen to great artists. Every December THANKSGIVING AT THE LODGE Give thanks Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Sunday, classic Christmas movies will be shown and celebrate. Join Cambria Pines Lodge for Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866. as well. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-937-8463. an endless all-you-can-eat buffet of all your cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon UKULELE JAM SESSIONS This is a drop-in Thanksgiving favorites in the venue’s beautiful Vineyard and Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, program. Play melodies and many songs with garden dining area. The buffet menu features Santa Maria. other musicians. Baritone ukuleles are available items like turkey, prime rib, ham, shrimp to use or bring your own. Music and music TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone cocktail, fresh fruit, green salad, veggies, and strands provided. Mondays, Wednesdays, 10:30more. Nov. 23, 12:30-7:30 p.m. $34.95-$69.95.

Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805-332-3532, 11:30 a.m. through Dec. 27 Free. 805-925-0951.

800-966-6490. cambriapineslodge.com. winestoneinn.com/.

Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., THANKSGIVING BRUNCH Features a carving Santa Maria. station, omelet station, waffle bar, hot dishes,

CHORAL VALUES

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.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/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.

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. 805-9250951. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO TUESDAYS LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR Enjoy live CLASH Don’t miss Head Games Trivia at COLD music most Fridays and Saturdays. Call venue Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. or check website to find out who’s performing.

Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes Fridays, Saturdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt. delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-819-0723. coldcoastbrewing. karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, Ocean Ave, Lompoc.

DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y Maria, 805-623-8866.

DINNER FOR A CAUSE: GIVING TUESDAY OLD TIME GOSPELMUSIC SING-ALONG All are BANQUET 2023 Features dinner, dancing, and welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of more. 100 percent of all proceeds benefit the 5Cities Homeless Coalition. Nov. 28, 4:30-8 p.m. every month, 5-6 p.m. 805-478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.

FLAVOR/EATS my805tix.com. Pismo Beach Golf Course, 25 THE SANTA MARIA PHILHARMONIC: West Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

BAROQUE MASTERS SEASON CONCERT SAN LUIS OBISPO The Santa Maria Philharmonic Orchestra INFO chamber players THANKSGIVING AT and Maestro Michael LUNA RED Enjoy a Nowak welcome three-course, chefCALENDAR one and all to a prepared, prix-fixe on celebration of Baroque Thanksgiving Day. Let composers, a holiday the venue handle the Send event information to calendar@ OPINION season tradition for preparations and enjoy santamariasun.com. the Philharmonic. an stress-free meal Dec. 1, 7:30-9:30 p.m. with loved ones. Nov. NEWS$45. 805-925-0412.

23, 1-9 p.m. $55-$60. smphilharmonic.org. First United Methodist 805-540-5243. lunaredslo.com. Luna Red, 1023 Church, 311 Broadway, Santa Maria.

Chorro St., San Luis Obispo.

SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS:STROKES WINE, MUSIC, AND THANKSGIVING SERVICE AT FIRST CHURCH MORE Enjoy a flight of six distinctively OF CHRIST, SCIENTIST A festive and inspiring different age-worthy wines while listening service including readings from The Bible and to live entertainment presented by a local ARTS Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures band, musician, or disc jockey. Features

by Mary Baker Eddy, hymns, the President’s sweet treats from Santa Maria food vendors Thanksgiving Proclamation, and group sharing and local artisans. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. through of gratitude and healings. Child care provided.

Nov. 26 Free. 805-937-8463. instagram.com/ Online service at website. Nov. 23, 10-11 a.m. cottonwoodcanyonwinery/. Cottonwood Free. 805-543-5853. ChristianScienceSLO.org.

First Church of Christ, Scientist, 1326 Garden St., Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion San Luis Obispo.

Rd, Santa Maria.

Spread the word!

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

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

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.

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.

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

BLACK SABBATHA LIVE A Black Sabbath tribute band. Dec. 2, 7-11 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 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.

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

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. m

311 S Broadway, Santa Maria, CA

For the Love of Music

Presents:

BRIAN ASHER ALHADEFF Artistic Director & Conductor

a Pops

Season’s Greetings www.LompocPopsOrchestra.com

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Santa Maria

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023 at 7:00 PM

Animal Adoptions • Low-cost Veterinary Care Affordable Dog Training • Pet Supplies & Resources

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TICKETS OUTLETS: The Box Shop • Lompoc Valley Florist • Sunset Auto And at the door on the night of the concert.

1687 West Stowell Road Santa Maria, CA 93458

First United Methodist Church • 925 North F Street GENERAL ADMISSION $25 • STUDENTS WITH ID $5

www.santamariasun.com • November 23 - November 30, 2023 • Sun • 21

Arts

GALLERY COURTESY IMAGES BY EYVIND EARLE

ARTS BRIEFS PCPA presents Elf: The Musical COURTESY PHOTO BY LUIS ESCOBAR, REFLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

Performances of Elf: The Musical, the Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s (PCPA) latest production, will run through Saturday, Dec. 23, at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria. Adapted from the popular 2003 film, this local iteration of the stage musical includes songs by composer Matthew Sklar and lyricist Chad Beguelin.

The show’s cast is led by George Walker (pictured, left), who portrays Buddy, a human raised as an elf who leaves the North Pole as an adult to embark on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, Walter, played by Andrew Philpot (right).

The creative team behind PCPA’s holiday production includes music director Paul Marszalkowski, scenic designer Jason Bolen, costume designer Jacqueline Heimel, lighting designer Jennifer “Z” Zornow, assistant lighting designer Krys Newbury, sound designer Tony Angelini, properties director Tim Hogan, and stage manager Jack D. Myles.

PCPA Resident Artist and Casting Director Keenon Hooks serves as both the show’s director and choreographer. In press materials, Hooks described Elf: The Musical as a winter escape, while comparing it to one way he used to cope with the absence of snow at Christmas during his upbringing.

“When I was a kid, I used to love decorating for Christmas,” said Hooks, who added that he especially admired setting up his grandparents’ snow globes.

“Growing up in Southern California, we weren’t used to the real-life idea of a white Christmas. So I would live vicariously through these magical spheres.

“It is quite beautiful how something so small and simple can help you escape and visit places you have yet to see and experience in person. Theater also gives us that gift,” Hooks continued. “It allows us to let go of reality for a moment and enjoy the world of the play we are about to witness. Elf: The Musical is no exception.”

For more info on the show, visit pcpa.org. The Marian Theatre is located at 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.

Soprano and pianist team up for concert at Shepard Hall FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF NICHOLE DECHAINE

MILLENNIUM MASTERPIECE: One of Eyvind Earle’s (1916-2000) final pieces before his death was Evening Magic, which he painted in 2000.

FIELDS OF DREAMS: Late artist and prolific background painter Eyvind Earle completed his piece Fields Ascending in 1991.

caught her daughter’s eye.

“It wasn’t a Sleeping A GIVING TREE: The Elverhoj Museum’s newest exhibition Beauty painting, but it was showcases a collection of paintings by late artist and Solvang resident one of his landscapes. And Eyvind Earle, including Bonsai, which he completed in 1987. she said, ‘Mommy, that’s the Sleeping Beauty man,’” said Mullin, who believes young visitors of the new Earle exhibit may have a similar reaction.

“I think the reason that everyone loves Eyvind

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD Earle and his work is we feel connected to it; it’s t just four months on the job, the Elverhoj accessible,” Mullin said. “It’s really stylized and Museum’s new executive director isn’t afraid unique.” to admit she’s a Disney fanatic.

While organizing the exhibit, the painting “I have three children,” Sandie Mullin, who Mullin found herself most drawn to was Bonsai, took on spearheading responsibilities at the which she described as uncharacteristically spooky, Solvang venue in July, said in her defense. compared to other pieces in the show at least.

One of the movies playing on repeat in Mullin’s The eerie subject of Bonsai is a seemingly household when her kids were growing up was contorted tree with a black and purple color Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. The 1959 film’s principal scheme that reminded Mullin of Sleeping Beauty’s background painter was late artist Eyvind Earle iconic villain Maleficent, but with sharp branches (1916-2000), whose work is on display in Elverhoj instead of horns.

Museum’s latest exhibition, set to open on Nov. 25 “It looks like it’s alive,” said Mullin, who added and run through mid-January 2024. that the black and purple pairing is unique in itself Earle’s designs on Sleeping Beauty gave the film compared to the heavy blues and greens prevalent a medieval tapestry-esque atmosphere and helped in many of Earle’s pieces on display in the show. cement the enduring recognizability of his unique Included with a selection of Earle’s early style among generations of viewers. paintings and limited-edition serigraphs of When her daughter was about 5 years old, frames from Sleeping Beauty on display, some Mullin remembers the two of them taking a walk landscapes in the Elverhoj exhibit are laced with through downtown Los Olivos and passing by a hillside imagery reminiscent of the Santa Ynez gallery that was showcasing paintings by Earle.

Valley, including Three Fields and a Mountain and Fields Ascending, which the painter One of the featured landscapes immediately

Eyvind of the beholder

Elverhoj Museum pays tribute to late artist and Solvang resident Eyvind Earle

A

completed in 1989 and 1991, respectively.

While the exhibit is sure to attract fans of Earle’s general portfolio and cinematic work (the painter also contributed background art on Peter Pan, Lady and the Tramp, and other films), art collectors may also flock to the Elverhoj Museum, as some of the prolific artist’s original oil paintings and serigraphs will be available for sale throughout the showcase.

Along with a celebratory opening reception for the show on Nov. 25, the museum will be hosting a special family-friendly screening of Sleeping Beauty in conjunction with the exhibit on Jan. 6, at Bethania Lutheran Church in Solvang.

Admission to both events is free.

Mullin said she just might arrange for the museum to put on a Disney trivia night eventually as well, but she’d honorably bow out from participating.

“I’d win though,” Mullin said with a laugh. “So I’d have to exempt myself.” m Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood would be a major contender at Disney trivia. Send comments to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

Rise and shine

Call (805) 686-1211 or visit elverhoj.org for more info on The MUSIC Magical World of Eyvind Earle, a new exhibition of works at the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art. The late painter is known FLAVOR/EATS for his work on Sleeping Beauty and other films. The show debuts with an opening reception on Saturday, Nov. 25, from 4 to 6 p.m. Refreshments will be served at the free event, open INFO to the public.

The exhibit is scheduled to remain on display through Monday, Jan. 15, 2024. The Elverhoj Museum of History andCALENDAR Art is located at 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang.

On Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024, the museum will host a free OPINION screening of Sleeping Beauty at Bethania Lutheran Church in Solvang. The family-friendly event will start at 3 p.m. The church NEWS is located at 603 Atterdag Road, Solvang.

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Local music instructor Nichole Dechaine (pictured) will be the featured soprano during the next entry of the Santa Maria Philharmonic Society’s Music at the Library series at Shepard Hall on Saturday, Dec. 9, at 3 p.m.

Admission to the concert, which also features Dechaine’s frequent collaborator Beverly Staples on piano, is free, but pre-registration is required. Call (805) 924-0412 for more details. Shepard Hall is located inside the Santa Maria Public Library, at 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. m Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

ARTS

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

FIELDWORK: Eyvind Earle’s 1989 piece Three Fields and a Mountain is one of the hillside landscape paintings on display in the Elverhoj Museum’s latest art showcase.

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Film Let it snow

SUN SCREEN

Snow is torn between orders to make her a spectacle, which could propel him into wealth, and doing the right thing by helping her live.

Caleb: Going in, I knew this installment of the franchise featured Editor’s note: Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal and Arts Editor a young version of Snow, but I didn’t realize he’d be its scope of Caleb Wiseblood wrote Split Screen this week while Glen and focus. The outcome is a surprisingly engrossing character study.

Anna Starkey vacationed in Costa Rica.

I don’t think there’s a single scene in the film that is outside his point of view. We’re only ever introduced to other characters oung and ambitious Coriolanus Snow (Tom Blyth) is through his eyes, including Gray, who forms a plausible alliance assigned as a mentor to Lucy Gray, an impoverished District with her mentor after being raffled at random into participating 12 resident (Rachel Zegler) plucked to participate in the in the film’s titular death tournament. We also meet Casca bloody Hunger Games. Together, Snow and Gray must strategize Highbottom (Peter Dinklage), the Hunger Games’ original coher survival in the televised games where kids battle to their founder and dean of the academy Snow is enrolled at. Highbottom deaths—and face the consequences of it. The film is a prequel set deliberately makes life harder for Snow whenever given the chance 64 years before the original Hunger Games trilogy. (158 min.) seemingly based on a long-lasting vendetta he’s kept against the student’s deceased father. It’s like Severus Snape Bulbul: I once belonged to the prime target and Harry Potter all over again, but without hope group for the Hunger Games book series. My THE HUNGER GAMES: THE of reconciliation down the road. But Snow is not friends and I devoured the Suzanne Collins without a support system. The Hunger Games’ BALLAD OF SONGBIRDS novels early on in high school, and we eagerly head gamemaker, Volumnia Gaul (Viola Davis), AND SNAKES caught the movie adaptations on the big screen admires his tactfulness and overall approach to What’s it rated? PG-13 toward the end of our school days. Eight years coaching Gray, who he treats more like an equal What’s it worth, Bulbul? Full price later, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes proves than death match fodder. Snow has a best friend What’s it worth, Caleb? Full price to be a powerful revisit of the Hunger Games at school too, Sejanus Plinth (Josh Andres Rivera), Where’s it showing? Regal universe. I’ve yet to read Collins’ fourth book, who also serves as a Hunger Games mentor, but Edwards Arroyo Grande, Regal which was published in 2020, but its film version a reluctant one who unashamedly denounces the Edwards RPX makes me want to grab a copy ASAP and reread games as barbaric without fear of backlash from Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc the old books for good measure. The new prequel his peers in the Capitol. is the origin story of President Snow during Bulbul: Snow’s story is split into three parts that the early days of the post-apocalyptic nation of span more than two and a half hours. The film does feel long at Panem. Newcomer Tom Blyth charismatically portrays Snow, his times but it’s a smooth, riveting watch. Yes, reading the books compassion, willfulness, and hunger for power that eventually and watching the original trilogy will make for a richer viewing launches him into the ruthless and calculated dictator played experience as with most movie adaptations, but The Ballad of

by Donald Sutherland. Born into wealth that’s considerably Songbirds and Snakes works as a standalone movie that serves diminished, 19-year-old Snow still lives in rarefied society while as an intriguing introduction to the Hunger Games franchise. concealing his family’s near squalor. He and his upper-crust It’s jarring to see what the Hunger Games and Capitol rule used classmates get reluctantly paired with kids from the struggling to look like and how far—and little—the two have progressed in neighboring districts who have to compete in the Hunger Games terms of grandiosity, class consciousness, and warfare. I’m both as punishment for revolting against the ruling Capitol. Acting impressed and relieved that the film stands the test of time and as a mentor for defiant “songbird” Lucy Gray (Rachel Zegler), rests as an equal beside its three predecessors.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LIONSGATE

Y

IMAGE COURTESY OF NETFLIX

Television Reviews The Crown (Season Six)

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2023 Where’s it showing? Netflix The heady dramatization of the life and surroundings of England’s longest-reigning monarch draws to a roaring conclusion with the sixth season. The Crown now handles the events of the late 1990s, perhaps the most controversial time period yet, which revolve around Princess Diana’s (Elizabeth Debicki) short-lived dalliance with Harrods heir Dodi Fayed orchestrated by his billionaire father Mohamed Al-Fayed. The season is broken in two halves—Netflix released four episodes on Nov. 16 and the last six will be aired on Dec. 14. The first installment brings viewers up close to the Queen’s (Imelda Staunton) disapproval of both Diana and her son Prince Charles’ (Dominic West) new postdivorce relationships, and culminates with the princess and Fayed’s fatal car crash in Paris. It’s a stunning look into early paparazzi culture and its effects on its targets. Spanning between 1997 and 2005, the second installment will touch on pivotal moments in pop culture and world history alike,

Caleb: I might have given this Hunger Games entry a matinee rating without its third act, which elevated the film to full price for me. It’s a fascinating chapter on Snow’s time serving as a Peacekeeper—a buzz-cut foot soldier in the Capitol’s military—after a fall from grace. I wasn’t expecting to see this facet of Panem society explored, and it’s engaging to experience it through Snow’s perspective, especially with his future calling in mind. Villain origin stories based on established franchises have been trending for a while now, but I find the best of them refreshing compared to the onslaught of multi-character mashup movies we’re used to thanks to Marvel’s popularity. In a world oversaturated with one-note team-up flicks, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes feels singular. m New Times Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal and Sun Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood wrote Sun Screen this week. Send comments to gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

IMAGE COURTESY OF NETFLIX

and the final season is the first to be produced since her passing. I’ve followed the series from the very beginning, and I’m on the edge of my seat to see how it all finally ends. (10 approximately 50-min. episodes) —Bulbul

CASTLEVANIA: NOCTURNE

FAMILY TIES: The last season of The Crown spotlights Princess Diana’s (Elizabeth Debicki) final days with her sons, Princes William (Rufus Kampa) and Harry (Fflyn Edwards), before her tragic end in Paris.

such as the budding romance between Prince William and Kate Middleton, the premiership of former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, and the wedding of Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles. With some creative liberties in tow, The Crown was controversial for its incisive portrayal of the royal family. It weathered both criticism and praise from the late Queen Elizabeth,

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PUT ME IN, COACH: A young Coriolanus Snow (Tom Blyth) coaches Hunger Games contestant Lucy Gray (Rachel Zegler) in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2023 Where’s it showing? Netflix I was more than content with the conclusion of Netflix’s four-season vampire anime Castlevania (2017-2021) because the series’ overarching story ended with a satisfying sense of completion. Even as much as I love the underrated, critically maligned string of video game films that graced the ‘90s—Super Mario Bros. (with Bob Hoskins, not Chris Pratt), Double Dragon, Street Fighter, etc.—I would go as far as to tout Castlevania as the best video game-to-screen adaptation yet, but a possible contender could be on the horizon. After watching 2023’s Castlevania: Nocturne, the anime’s anticipated spin-off that premiered earlier this fall, I’m stoked and somewhat shocked to report it’s on par with the original series. The new

FANG FOR YOUR BUCK: The war between humans and vampires continues in Netflix’s video-game adaptation Castlevania: Nocturne, a spin-off of Castlevania that premiered this fall.

show follows Richter Belmont, a descendant of Castlevania protagonist vampire killer Trevor Belmont, who continues his family’s crusade against bloodsuckers and other creatures of the night plaguing France during the late 1700s. With one season so far, time will tell how the new series as a whole stacks up against its predecessor. But it’s off to a bloody good start. (eight 25 min. episodes). m —Caleb

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Eats

FOOD PHOTOS BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

LOCAL LEGACY: Founded, owned, and operated by the Vongsaroj family, Thai Hut has been in business on East Foster Road in Orcutt since 1996.

COME AND SATAY AWHILE: Chicken satay is marinated with spices and served with peanut sauce and cucumber salad at Thai Hut, the Orcutt staple that won the Best Thai Food award in the Sun’s 2023 Best of Northern Santa Barbara County readers’ poll.

Savory glory Enduring favorite Thai Hut satisfies cravings with raving region-wide acclaim

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

L

onger nights. Longer sleeves.

Longer showers. With each drop in temperature this fall in Orcutt, the possibility of resisting Thai Hut’s tom kha selections plummets as well.

While the approaching sweater weather may inspire locals to seek out favorite fall flavors, Thai coconut soup is a year-round customer favorite at Thai Hut, where it’s been a menu fixture since the restaurant first opened its doors in 1996.

That was also the year the local eatery’s owner Tu Vongsaroj gave birth to her daughter, Sandra Vongsaroj. Ipso facto, Sandra doesn’t know what it’s like to live in a world without Thai Hut. “I pretty much grew up at the restaurant. It’s practically my second house,” said Sandra, who worked part time at Thai Hut during her teens and continues to help out her family’s

For more info on Thai Hut or to place an order at the restaurant ahead of time, call (805) 934-0911. The eatery is located at 120 E. Foster Road, Orcutt.

business whenever timing allows, while currently in the thick of finishing nursing school.

If there’s one opinion the 27-year-old hasn’t wavered from for as long as she can remember, it’s that pad thai is the yummiest thing on Thai Hut’s menu.

Hard tofu is among the ingredients of the treasured rice noodle dish Sandra often finds hard to turn down.

One of her favorite things about middle school was walking straight to Thai Hut from Lakeview Junior High, about a half-mile away, after school for a late afternoon dish of pad thai.

Sandra’s mother, Tu, said that students from Lakeview and Righetti are a big part of Thai Hut’s customer base on weekdays, thanks to the restaurant’s proximity to both schools.

Now in his 40s, one of Thai Hut’s most frequent customers first ate there as a Righetti student in the ’90s and has been a regular ever since, Tu said.

“The customer support here touches my heart,” said Tu, who co-founded Thai Hut with her husband shortly after they left Southern California to live on the Central Coast. “We’re thankful for everything we have here, and the customers who come back and feel like family.”

Chances are that some members of Thai Hut’s loyal fan base are regular Sun readers too, based on the outcome of the paper’s 2023 Best of Northern Santa Barbara County poll. Votes collected earlier this year secured the restaurant’s win in the Best Thai Food category.

New Times Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal, from the Sun’s sister paper, summed up the Orcutt eatery’s broad appeal in a writeup that distinguished Thai Hut not only as a region-wide poll winner, but a staff pick as well.

“I’m a recent convert to Thai food, and I have Thai Hut to thank for it,”

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EATS continued page 26

PARADISE FOUND: Pad thai, tom kha, chicken satay, and Thai Hut fried rice—assembled with shrimp, chicken breast, pineapple, bell pepper, raisins, and cashews—are among the menu offerings at Thai Hut in Orcutt.

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Over the restaurant’s nearly Rajagopal wrote. “It’s a three-decade history, cozy, friendly, familythere has never run spot, and it’s easy been an incident as to see why it’s a fan shocking as that night favorite.” in March, Sandra Rajagopal listed added, but the family’s Thai Hut’s pra tod—a enduring dedication to steamed whole pomfret upholding the business fish with different remains steadfast. topping options It’s no surprise to choose from— to Sandra that the among her personal restaurant is open on recommendations.

Thanksgiving day, for “Dig in with a side example. Gauging from of fluffy white rice, and past holiday seasons, you’ll believe you’re in Tu said it’s inevitable Thailand,” Rajagopal there’ll be more than a wrote. few familiar faces—old Thai Hut accepted patrons who grew up in the Sun’s Best Thai the area but have since Food award in August, moved away, returning about five months after to their hometown for the restaurant received family visits—stopping some news coverage of a by over the remainder different caliber. of the year.

STRAW AND ORDER: There’s simply no On the evening “She’s a very point refusing a glass of luscious Thai iced of March 25, one of tea while visiting Thai Hut in Orcutt. hardworking woman.

MUSIC the stray bullets fired It’s like she never wants during a fatal shooting to take a break. She’s at Orcutt’s Melody Market, very driven,” Sandra said about FLAVOR/EATS Share directly adjacent to Thai Hut, her mother. “She’s a people tasty tips! tore through a wall of the person, and she wants to serve restaurant and almost injured Send tidbits on everything INFOpeople. I really think it brings a patron, Sandra said. food and drink to her happiness to see people, cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

“The bullet passed right families come together at the CALENDAR by a customer’s shoulder,” restaurant.” m Sandra said. “That night really traumatized us. You Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood has been going to OPINION wouldn’t expect a quiet area like Orcutt to have Thai Hut ever since his booster-seat days. Send a shooting.” comments to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

EATS from page 25

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