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The Beekeeper is one to miss [20]

Seniors, residents with disabilities say a lack of medical transportation and long wait times for in-home services are issues in Santa Barbara County [6]

BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL

Roadblocks to care NEWS

The race for 3rd District supervisor [4]

ARTS

The First Ladies of Disco [18]

EATS

Victory Gardens helps backyards grow [21]

Contents

JANUARY 18 - JANUARY 25, 2024 VOL. 24 NO. 47

O

nly one bus per day runs between North and South Santa Barbara County, leaving those who need to see specialists in the city of Santa Barbara with the option of finding a ride or catching the bus at 7 a.m. and returning at 6 p.m. Transportation is one of several issues that seniors and residents with disabilities said hinders health care access.

The responses to an Independent Living Resource Center survey highlighted other difficulties faced by seniors and residents with disabilities, as well, including a lack of affordable housing. Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal from the Sun’s sister paper, New Times, writes about the results [6].

This week, you can also read about the upcoming primary race for Santa Barbara County’s 3rd District supervisor seat [4], a disco tribute show in Arroyo Grande [18], and the project that builds backyard gardens in Cuyama [21].

Camillia Lanham editor

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NEWS

AWA I TS

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

Carpet & Floor

ARTS

Arts Briefs ................................................................................18

MOVIES

Reviews ....................................................................................20

OPINION

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

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

ACCESS GAPS: A survey conducted by The Independent Living Resource Center in three Central Coast counties found that seniors living in rural areas had a harder time accessing health care services due to a lack of transportation options.

Commentary ...........................................................................10 Web Poll ....................................................................................10 Modern World ........................................................................10 Canary .........................................................................................11

CLASSIFIEDS, HOME, AND REAL ESTATE .................................................... 23

EVENTS CALENDAR

Hot Stuff .................................................................................... 12

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www.santamariasun.com • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • Sun • 3

News

➤ Inaccessible care [6] PHOTO COURTESY OF JENELLE OSBORNE

January 18 - January 25, 2024

➤ Spotlight [8] COURTESY PHOTO BY PHIL CHANNING

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANK TROISE CAMPAIGN

POLITICAL WATCH • As the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) considers implementing new rules prohibiting hidden fees in a range of sectors across the U.S. economy, U.S Rep. Salud Carbjal (D-Santa Barbara) is pushing the federal agency to crack down on burdensome junk fees that can rack up thousands of dollars in additional costs for American renters, according to a Jan. 10 statement from Carbajal’s office. Rep. Carbajal joined nine other House Democrats in a letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan urging the agency to finalize regulations that would prohibit unfair and deceptive practices related to fees that can misrepresent the total costs of rental housing and other goods, including live event ticketing and shortterm lodging. Specifically, Carbajal and his colleagues highlight rental application fees, which can cost hundreds of dollars for each prospective renter—totaling thousands in a competitive market where families are competing for limited supply, and undisclosed add-on charges for a rental property that are assessed through the life of a lease, especially those that are not disclosed in a rental agreement. “As the third of Americans who are renters struggle to afford rising rent prices, with over 20 million renters reporting that the increasing cost of rent threatens their financial security, added and dishonest fees make it even harder for them to secure affordable housing,” the representatives wrote in their letter. “The balance of power weighs heavily in favor of landlords, particularly given the severe shortage of affordable housing and the combination of rising rents, inflation, and wage stagnation. The severe shortage of affordable housing deprives renters—especially low-income renters—of any meaningful way of walking away from landlords who tack on junk fees before, during, and after the lease term. To help empower renters, we encourage the commission to issue industry-specific interpretative guidance and explore future trade regulation rules specific to rental housing junk fees.”

• U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler (both D-California) and a bipartisan group of 13 other Senate colleagues, called on U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry leaders to address long-term drought in the upcoming Farm Bill, according to a Jan. 11 statement from Padilla’s office. As the American West continues to recover from a historic megadrought, it is critical that the Farm Bill prioritizes addressing long-term drought, including through tools to conserve water, improve watershed scale planning, upgrade water infrastructure, protect land from erosion, and create long-term resiliency on changing landscapes for growers in drought-affected regions. According to the first snow survey of the year, California remains in a historic snow drought—state officials found 7.5 inches of snowpack where they measured 5 feet of snow just last year. “Agriculture is the economic backbone for rural communities in our states. However, severe, long-term drought is devastating these rural areas. During periods of droughts, our farmers and ranchers face diminishing crop and livestock outputs. These negative effects reverberate through the community, affecting not just individual producers, but the broader local economy and food system,” the senators wrote in their letter.

• Gov. Gavin Newsom announced his 2024-25 state budget proposal, which aims to maintain the state’s stability while preserving key investments for education, public safety, addressing homelessness, mental health care reform, climate action, and other priorities, according to a Jan. 10 statement from Newsom’s office.

Using some of the budget reserves built up over the years and other tools, this budget closes a projected $37.86 billion shortfall, according to his office. California’s Legislative Analyst’s Office believes the hole is deeper, a projected $68 billion. The 2023-24 state budget passed in June set aside reserves of close to $38 billion to prepare for a potential shortfall. “Thanks to the record reserves we have built up and a commitment to fiscal discipline over the years, our state is in a strong position to close this shortfall while protecting key priorities and programs that millions of Californians rely on,” Newsom said in the statement. “This balanced budget plan keeps California on firm economic footing while continuing our work to tackle homelessness, keep communities safe, expand access to high-quality education, overhaul behavioral health care, and fight climate change. I look forward to partnering with the Legislature to meet this moment with a balanced approach that meets the needs of Californians and safeguards our state’s future.” m

MAYOR TO SUPERVISOR: Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne threw her hat in the ring for the 3rd District supervisors race to bring a new perspective she feels is missing on the current dais.

Economic development is top priority for 3rd District supervisor candidates

Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne joined the Santa Barbara County 3rd District Supervisor race because she wanted to bring a different perspective to the table that elevates the voices and needs of mid-county residents, she told the Sun. “It’s been two years with the incumbent, and we’ve been meeting regularly, and I’ve given a laundry list of things the county controls that we need in the community, and I just didn’t see that happening,” Osborne said.

Osborne is running against incumbent Joan Hartmann and financial business owner Frank Troise to represent the 3rd District—which now encompasses Lompoc, Buellton, Los Olivos, Ballard, Santa Ynez, Solvang, and Goleta after the 2021 redistricting process—in the March 5 primary election.

“There’s just been an ideology that so aligns with South County that it stops hearing what mid or North County is trying to accomplish,” Osborne said. “When you have an imbalance on the Board of Supervisors, you’re not a healthy county because of the decisions being made; you’re in lawsuits—whether that’s with AMR or ExxonMobil—for decisions that shouldn’t have been made the way they were made.”

Being sued forces the county to spend money and use resources inappropriately, she said and added that she hopes to help advocate for an economic plan that diversifies community economies—which helps them become more resilient in the face of disasters—and addresses commuting, quality of life, housing, and child care concerns.

“How do we reduce that commuter population so they’re not spending two hours a day outside of their community and create a work-life balance where jobs are in the community? Part of that is housing,” Osborne said. “You see a demand by the state and its impact on the communities, and a onesize-fits-all isn’t the solution.”

She said she wanted to see a respect for “organic growth” in communities that meets state guidelines and a better investment in current infrastructure rather than going out and acquiring more land.

Fellow candidate Frank Troise is also hoping to focus on Santa Barbara County’s economic growth. The current Santa Ynez resident founded SoHo Capital—a wealth management firm that focuses on technological development and climate sustainability. His main goal is to help steer the county away from what he said would be a $15 million to $20 million budget deficit over the next three to four years, he said.

The Sun reached out to the county to verify this information but didn’t get a response before press time.

4 • Sun • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

THIRD AND FINAL ELECTION: Incumbent Joan Hartmann is running for her third and final election cycle to remain the 3rd District supervisor with hopes to finish out current projects.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: SoHo wealth management founder Frank Troise decided to run for 3rd District supervisor to steer Santa Barbara County in a positive direction for economic growth.

“We had a total of 14 very specific budget proposal items, and we have presented five of them to the county. The five we presented will generate over $200 million in revenue to the county,” Troise said.

While Troise said addressing budget concerns will help other county issues, his other priorities include investing in public safety, creating a strong climate framework, and investing in more child care development.

Adding a Lompoc Tech Campus, investing in planning and development, promoting Lompoc space tourism, improving child care, and creating a new climate framework will help generate thousands of new jobs, accelerate delayed projects, increase tax revenue, and help the county transition to cleaner energy reliance, according to Troise’s budget breakdown.

“If either Jenelle [Osborne] or the incumbent came to us and [said], ‘We will do this, we agree with you that this is a road map to get us from point A to point B,’ I will drop out of the race,” Troise said. “This election should be over by March 5; there’s no reason this should continue to November.”

The budget proposal has been sent to each campaign, which were both evaluating it as of Jan. 12.

Incumbent Hartmann said that she’s helped keep the county on strong fiscal ground by investing in emergency preparedness and establishing local partnerships for further economic development in her district’s communities.

“We’ve developed, in partnership with SLO County, a comprehensive economic strategy and we’ve identified different areas where we think the Central Coast has a competitive advantage with the universities, community colleges, private sectors, and the military base,” Hartmann said. “Renewable energy technology and agricultural technology are all areas where we anticipate tremendous growth— including precision manufacturing and [artificial intelligence] and automated machinery.”

Hartman said she wouldn’t run for the supervisor seat after this cycle.

“After four or five more years I think it would be time to step aside,” Hartmann said.

If elected for a third time, Hartmann added that she would also prioritize emergency preparedness in the face of climate extremes, investing in “state-of-the-art facilities” to address homelessness in Lompoc and Isla Vista, mental health and recuperative care investments, addressing youth crime and violence through partnerships with local organizations, and supporting the recreation master plan’s development and its community benefits.

“We’re finally in the last lap. I’ve been working for two years to introduce myself to new constituents—60 percent or more are new to me,” Hartmann said. “As difficult as campaigns are, it’s nonetheless really good to go door-to-door and talk to people and hear what their concerns are.”

—Taylor O’Connor

Buellton plans to amp up social media presence

With Facebook as its sole social media platform, the city of Buellton hopes to double its outreach efforts online with an upcoming Instagram account.

During its Jan. 11 meeting, the Buellton City Council discussed the new approach and its social media policy in general. Prior to the hearing, the policy remained unaltered since its adoption in 2019, according to City Manager Scott Wolfe.

“We would not expand the social media platforms beyond Facebook without expressed City Council consent,” Wolfe said at the meeting. “I am told by both our vice mayor and some of my staff— who are a little more social media literate than I am—that the addition of the Instagram platform to the city’s social media offerings is a very simple process, will not require additional significant staff time, and integrates well into the existing Facebook program we have.”

The Instagram topic was agendized as part of a list of City Council priorities for 2024, discussed in December, according to the staff report.

Staff recommended that the city start with Instagram because Facebook owns it and therefore allows posts to be shared on both platforms simultaneously, often automatically.

“It’s all encompassing,” Vice Mayor David Silva said, in support of the city joining Instagram based on the Facebook synergy features and the potential to reach younger demographics via social media than past years.

“I also do want to say the kids are not on Facebook anymore,” added Silva, who described most Facebook users as generally ages 40 and older. “[Instagram’s] just a good way to invite more awareness.”

Councilmember John Sanchez initially opposed the idea.

“I personally don’t see the need for Instagram to widen or double our exposure,” Sanchez said. “Don’t we have a public forum on our website?”

Wolfe explained that the city’s current use of Facebook and potential use of Instagram in the future are not intended to provide any “public forum for discussion by the public,” while the city’s website does have a portal for public feedback.

“As a matter of fact, we turn off—to the degree Facebook allows us to, which is not 100 percent— the ability for them to comment,” said Wolfe, who described the city’s social media approach as providing a “one-way conduit of information from the city to the community,” without an option for the public to comment online, unless through email or the city’s official website.

“What’s been brought to our attention lately is that, as some of us get older, we find that the younger generations don’t like Facebook and will use a different platform,” Wolfe said. “At this time, the bulk seems to be going to Instagram. So in order to maintain the city’s ability to reach the

NEWS continued page 5

News NEWS from page 4 most residents, adding Instagram is a good way to increase that reach without increasing the demand on staff time to do that.”

Mayor David King supported the shift and agreed with Wolfe and Silva about the app attracting a different audience than Facebook.

“The thing is the younger generation— everybody his age and younger—uses Instagram,” King said, while pointing at Silva.

“Are you saying I’m old?” Councilmember Elysia Lewis joked, eliciting laughter from many attendees of the meeting. “Excuse me, sir.”

The City Council ultimately agreed to direct staff to hop on Instagram on behalf of the city with an informal 4-0 poll. Councilmember Hudson Hornick was absent.

—Caleb Wiseblood

Santa Maria city employees advocate for higher wages

Santa Maria city union employees planned to approach the City Council during its Jan. 16 meeting (after the Sun went to press) to advocate for a wage increase that keeps up with the cost of living.

The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 620 represents almost 50 percent of Santa Maria’s city employees, with members in utilities, public works, recreation and parks, and a few police and fire administrative employees, said Nicole Bryant, an SEIU Local 620 field representative.

“This city works because our employees do; they are the ones that pick up trash each day, that make sure parks are maintained and safe, they run all our youth and senior programs, they support the library,” Bryant said. “Our members need to see livable wages to maintain the level of service at the city of Santa Maria.”

Negotiations between the city and the union have been going on for a few months now, with delays due to turnover in both human resources and administrative departments. While negotiations have been going well, Bryant said they are “coming down to the wire” because SEIU’s contract expired at the end of December and the wage increase is not meeting the cost-ofliving increase needed. Contract negotiations are scheduled to resume at the end of January.

Inflation rose by 11.1 percent in the duration of the SEIU’s contracts, and while other jurisdictions saw a minimum wage increase by 16.3 percent, local SEIU members only saw a 5.5 percent increase, Bryant said.

“We have another bargaining session with the city, and we’re hoping that their final offer will have an increase in the cost of living,” she said. “The city is losing employees by the day; there’s a large number of vacant positions at the city because their employees are leaving to go to better cities that have met the needs of employment contracts.”

According to the city’s website, there are 16 vacancies in city departments. The city of Santa Maria couldn’t be reached at press time.

Bryant added that the SEIU, which represents members from northern SLO County to southern Santa Barbara County, is seeing more action than its local areas have seen in years because of COVID’s impacts on the economy and inflation.

“We have seen an increase, and I think the state as a whole has seen an increase in union action as well due to a number of factors,” Bryant said. “I think it’s great; I think employees having a voice is necessary, especially with public employment, and it’s a huge benefit. That’s why we have collective bargaining in the first place: to give employees a place at the table and have their needs met.” m —Taylor O’Connor

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www.santamariasun.com • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • Sun • 5

News

Inaccessible care Public health survey spotlights difficulties for senior residents, people with disabilities

BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL

L

ong waits for in-home supportive services and a lack of rural transportation services are some of the many issues Santa Barbara County’s residents with disabilities and senior citizens face on a regular basis.

A public health survey conducted by the Independent Living Resource Center (ILRC) outlined these realities through the responses of 86 anonymous people from SLO, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties.

“Santa Barbara has a lot of good resources,” one participant wrote in the online survey.

“Caregiving is difficult to access and there are long waiting periods for IHSS [in-home supportive services].”

“I have not yet had to use [local] resources,” another respondent wrote. “I am lucky to still be able to drive or have a partner/friend drive me. Otherwise, it would be tough as I live in a remote part of Santa Barbara.”

Covering three counties with 11 programs ranging from housing and peer support to being a resource center for the aging and people with disabilities, ILRC aims to help locals be as independent as possible. Essentially, the resource center was built by people with disabilities for others facing disabilities.

Resource center Public Health Advocate Emily Bridges told the Sun on Jan. 9 that she was prompted to conduct the study after what she noticed during her public health classes and research: “Disability has not been, honestly, thought of at all, aside from being more of an

afterthought,” she said. “I created this study to do a needs assessment across all three counties on what people think about their health care concerns. … I wanted to bring it up to legislators and stakeholders and somehow inspire change.”

Bridges worked closely with ILRC Systems Change Coordinator Jacob Lesner-Buxton and Community Information Coordinator Jerry Mihaic on the study and identifying local issues prevalent in Santa Barbara and SLO counties, respectively.

She said that some of the other specific issues that Santa Barbara County residents shared on the survey included that doctors didn’t want to learn about complex issues due to time constraints, that it was difficult to coordinate services with specialists at different offices, and that it was challenging to access caregivers.

Lesner-Buxton said that one of the biggest challenges faced by northern Santa Barbara County residents is access to health care transportation.

“Many specialists are based in the city of Santa Barbara. There is only one public bus per day that runs between North and South Santa Barbara County, meaning that people who use that option have to leave at 7 in the morning and return at 6 at night,” Lesner-Buxton told the Sun via email on Jan. 11. “While Medicare requires providers to make arrangements for transportation to patients for appointments, we have heard these rides are unreliable and some of the drivers are sketchy.”

In SLO County, residents said they also

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had trouble accessing caregiving and rural transportation services. In addition, said they had issues with being overlooked by physicians and insurance providers for their medical needs and felt the pinch of unaffordable housing issues.

“Affordable senior housing in San Luis Obispo is almost nonexistent,” one survey participant wrote. “The closest community I have found is in Arroyo Grande, and I am currently on a wait-list.”

“I am now what they call ‘moteling,’” a survey respondent wrote. “Trying to get help paying for it. There are so many seniors and disabled at this motel, the Premier Inns where we stay mostly. This country has forgotten ‘The Greatest Generation that Ever Lived.’”

While affordable housing options may be in either North or South SLO County, many of the services are located in the city of SLO. Mihaic said that SLO County is unique CARE CONNECTION: Community Information because of how “retirement-friendly” it is due Coordinator Jerry Mihaic of the Independent to the weather and small community size, but Living Resource Center calls the organization accessing health care becomes a serious issue. one of the “best-kept secrets” in Santa Barbara, He added that that the level of care someone SLO, and Ventura counties. needs depends on how old they are. core consumers that we serve on a typical basis “Especially for an older senior population because there are no doctors really who because people who use our services tend to drop specialize in geriatric care,” Mihaic said. “But off and come back as needed.” the county is doing some things with fall Both Bridges and Mihaic called the resource prevention, healthy brains initiative, dealing center’s existence one of the “best-kept secrets.” with Alzheimer’s and dementia.”

“We want to change that, we want people Bridges told the Sun that although senior to know about us and call us to get the right residents from three different counties took part guidance to services they need,” Mihaic said. in the survey, the issues they said they faced “We work closely with the 211 service to make were uniform. sure all the information is updated as well.” m “There is an isolation and the need for ripple effect in terms of Reach Staff Writer Bulbul resources,” Bridges said.

Get help Rajagopal from the Sun’s “People are honestly Call the Independent Living Resource Center at sister paper, New Times, at not aware that ILRC (805) 462-1162 or visit ilre-trico.org to learn more. exists outside of our brajagopal@newtimesslo.com.

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www.santamariasun.com • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • Sun • 7

News

SPOTLIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF MAJID POSHTAN

ONGOING INTEREST: Cal Poly Associate Professors of Computer Engineering Joseph CallenesSloan (left) and Electrical Engineering Majid Poshtan (right) pose with students Braden Wicker (center left) and Michael Tuttle (center right) after their research on power grid cyber security won an award at a Washington, D.C., conference. The two students were first recruits to try out the professors’ now-patented software for heat detection.

Patented prevention

group to access its software and develop their research. The sensor’s software uses cellular communication and wirelessly sends the data to the utility company’s operating center. Poshtan requested to keep the company’s name anonymous.

“With the same raw data that they Cal Poly professors win a patent for receive, we can separate if sag is coming from ambient heat from sunbeams or from their wildfire-detecting software a local source of heat,” Poshtan said. “We started to develop our own software.”

BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL Poshtan and Callenes-Sloan used the company’s wo Cal Poly engineering professors’ concern hardware and layered their newly developed for preserving the environment for future software over the existing one, making it smarter generations sparked a trailblazing project with in the process. Their version of the program intentions to prevent widespread fires. collected data about local heat sources every 20 Majid Poshtan and Joseph Callenes-Sloan— seconds. Theoretically, that data would be sent to associate professors of electrical engineering and the utilities operator who can then decide whether computer engineering, respectively—advanced a to call in emergency services. software program that can be attached to high“We knew that sooner or later, power utilities power transmission lines and detect fledgling will buy that sensor for sag, and if they have that, local fires, their growth, and the direction in they can get our software and also use it for fire which they could spread. The innovation won detection,” Poshtan said. “You don’t need satellites, them a breakthrough patent in September for the cameras, or a power source. This device is sitting program, which the engineers had been working on the transmission line and getting the power on since before the pandemic began. from the line.”

“All the pictures that I saw from wildfires were The professors contacted the San Luis Obispo mainly caused by transmission lines in forests Fire Department in 2020 to test out their and other places with lots of vegetation and then software. The department suggested conducting it expanded to the cities and towns,” Poshtan a trial run during fire drills, but the onset of the told the Sun on Dec. 28. “I thought at least I can pandemic prevented that test from happening. help with preventing fire caused by high-power Still, Poshtan and Callenes-Sloan continued to transmission lines.” develop the software, even testing it on multiple The idea struck him when he attended an transmission lines. electrical engineering conference in Washington, “We learned that in Europe it is mandatory D.C., in 2019. Poshtan connected with an industry to buy that sensor. In New York, they’ve already peer whose company designed a sensor that installed it,” Poshtan said. “We knew that it is measures the sag of transmission lines. Although coming to the West Coast, and the moment it utility companies must make sure there’s enough comes, we have some products that can help the space between the wires and trees so that the high environment.” power from the cables doesn’t spark fires, Poshtan In fact, Poshtan added that two utility said, utility wires can sag downward due to high companies are expressing interest in their software. ambient temperatures, direct sunlight, or high They’re in talks with those groups to iron out current inside the cables. the finer details. Even the students who ran the According to Poshtan, utility companies keep heat detection software to test its efficiency are the power running through the transmission experiencing success. Some of them launched a lines below the maximum capacity because of startup called Perch Sensing Inc., and they received the chance of overheating that could cause the $150,000 from the California Energy Commission wires to droop to dangerous levels. Low hanging to develop their own sensor. cables can brush across tree canopies and possibly ignite them. The company Poshtan came across designed a sensor that could continuously measure Highlight the sagging and keep it at safe levels, which enables • The Santa Maria/Santa Barbara County utility companies to maximize the power without Continuum of Care, Santa Barbara County, compromising safety. and the Santa Barbara Alliance for Community “At the conference, I thought, ‘What if there’s Transformation are asking for volunteers to fire and it will cause heat on transmission line and participate in the countywide 2024 Homeless expand the sag?’” Poshtan said.

Point-In-Time Count from 5:30 to 9 a.m. on Jan. 24.

He discussed the idea with Callenes-Sloan, and All who want to volunteer for the annual count of the pair recruited students to help. Together, they individuals and families experiencing homelessness ran a simulation to test the speed of heat transfer. are required to attend a one-hour training session The group discovered that when a fire breaks out, either online or in-person. To learn more and/or its heat transfers to transmission lines much faster sign up, visit countyofsb.pointintime.info. m by radiation than by convection and conduction.

Reach Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal from the Their work and Poshtan’s networking at the Sun’s sister paper, New Times, at brajagopal@ conference paid off. The company with the sag sensor agreed to allow Poshtan and Callenes-Sloan’s newtimesslo.com.

T

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8 • Sun • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

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www.santamariasun.com • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • Sun • 9

Opinion ONLINE POLL

Where do you like to spend your time volunteering?

40% At animal shelters, rescue organizations, or humane societies.

40% Helping out at my local food bank.

20% With advocacy groups like CAUSE and MICOP. 0% Working with children.

5 Votes

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COMMENTARY

➤ Canary [11]

Heading for worse

Maria Times reveal Varni courted controversy when he served on the Santa Maria The Oceano Community Services District Valley Water Conservation oftentimes publicly is in disarray thanks to one elected official District, feuding with his board colleagues and staff.

BY AARON OCHS While Hill’s critics repeatedly raised issues with he drama from Oceano is so extensive that how he publicly and personally attacked them, it continuously reverberates throughout the Hill’s supporters spun his words and actions as Central Coast. merely being part of his schtick. “It’s just Adam Every week, newly elected Oceano Community being Adam.” He was a scrapper, they’d say. A Services District (OCSD) board member Charles rebel with a cause. Like many, I subscribed to that Varni publishes verbose, sanctimonious, and selfnarrative until it unceremoniously collapsed. victimizing diatribes every time someone disagrees At the Dec. 13, 2023, OCSD meeting, Varni with him. Varni completely melts down in a was appointed board president. The vote came feedback loop of replaying his grievances against after the board met in closed session to discuss an the district while further alienating himself from extensive Brown Act complaint filed against him his board colleagues and the rule of law. and entertained discussions to refer his potentially Unfortunately, as the OCSD board president, criminal board misconduct to the district attorney. he is now the public face of Oceano. And if Varni’s supportive colleagues on the board he is so concerned about righting the wrongs dismissed the complaint and his own “unfortunate from the district’s “unfortunate history [of] history” of personally attacking colleagues and mismanagement and corruption,” Varni should residents, stating their support was rooted in his let the district’s actions to remediate those wrongs dedication and commitment to the community. speak for themselves.

OCSD director Beverly Joyce-Suneson even stated Varni doth protest too much, methinks. his allegedly unwavering commitment to Oceano Come to think of it, he reminds me of someone was “commendable behavior.”

I knew—someone who I still have difficulty Hill was reelected several times due to his own writing about. At one time, I supported him. “commendable behavior”—behavior that 3rd Much can be said about former SLO County District voters were willing to overlook as long 3rd District Supervisor Adam Hill, what he as his positions lined up with theirs. With his achieved, and what he sought to achieve. But as conduct unchecked, Hill was given enough cover time marches forward, we learn more about the to engage in bribery with SLO County cannabis scandals he was involved in. Hill branded himself mogul Helios Dayspring and SLO County as a champion for the underdog all the while developer Ryan Wright. Hill believed he could get engaging in conduct that progressively undercut away with it as MUSIC long as the focus was on him being that message. Varni exhibits similar tendencies. a staunch advocate for his district and not for Hill portrayed himself as a dedicated steward everything else.

FLAVOR/EATS for social and environmental justice, taking on Instead of recusing himself in accordance all-comers with fiery gusto and admittedly not with the law, Varni voted against his own a whole lot of grace. But when he was criticized, criminal referral to the district attorney, which INFO Hill lashed out in a variety of ways—sometimes is obstruction of justice. Instead of recusing understandable, other times not. Local elected himself, he voted against receiving and filing the officials rarely acted out like Hill did.

Brown Act complaint CALENDARagainst him, which is a clear Similarly, Varni boasts a long conflict of interest. This comes record of advocating for social after he publicly feuded with OPINION and environmental causes with the district’s general manager vigor. But when he advocates and legal counsel. This led to Send us your for something, Varni’s hostility the general manager’s sudden views and opinion to NEWS is always at the forefront. retirement and departure of letters@santamariasun.com.

Various articles in the Santa legal counsel.

T

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STROKES

ARTS

All of these developments occurred after one of his own board colleagues unsuccessfully attempted to file a restraining order against him.

This is pattern and practice from Varni, who developed a reputation for public spats toward community members, staff, and colleagues.

Let’s not forget to mention the hours of YouTube video that featured Varni snapping at his former colleagues on the Oceano Advisory Council— with many of those highlights shown during a 45-minute-long presentation at the SLO County Board of Supervisors in 2022.

In the post-Hill era, shouldn’t SLO County supervisors be more vigilant when dealing with elected officials covered in red flags? Instead of publicly recognizing Varni’s toxic misconduct as inherently problematic, 4th District Supervisor Jimmy Paulding remains conspicuously silent.

Makes sense. Varni is one of his loudest and proudest supporters. It’s true that Paulding submitted a letter to the OCSD that called for civility after the now-infamous Oct. 25 meeting, which erupted into pure chaos that originated from Varni. Mere calls for civility will not and should not mitigate the significant legal risks the district will face as a result of Varni’s past and ongoing misconduct.

Voters and decision-makers need to do more than look at an elected official’s positions. They need to evaluate the totality of their actions as elected officials and recognize problems before they get worse. And Varni is getting worse. m Aaron Ochs writes to the Sun from Morro Bay. Send a response to letters@santamariasun.com.

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LETTERS Too many risks in Oceano

Before the last big storm, heavy rain and high tides were predicted by the weather forecasts. The disastrous washout on Oceano Beach, on Dec. 28, 2023, should not have been a surprise.

Several trailers and vehicles were dragged into the ocean where they lost all their contents: provisions, pots and pans, plasticware, trash. The debris ended up in the ocean. And it is not the first time.

It is surprising that State Parks allowed people with their trucks and recreational vehicles to drive on Oceano Beach, cross the Arroyo Grande Creek, and camp. I thought there was a rule that crossing the creek is not allowed if the water is 12 inches or deeper.

Isn’t it the responsibly of State Parks to manage if and how vehicles are allowed on the beach when the weather is threatening?

I only saw a sign posted: Beach access and creek crossing at your own risk.

People who used their own judgment placed their lives at risk. We taxpayers paid for the heavyduty equipment and time it took to rescue them.

The risk-takers polluted our beach and ocean and placed the lives of the park rangers at risk too.

Why did State Parks behave so recklessly? Is it because our State Parks system does not manage Pismo State Beach and the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area as it does all other state beaches in California? Pismo State Beach is part of the Oceano Dunes District managed by the Off-Highway Vehicles Division of State Parks.

Our beach is managed by risk-takers and offroaders. The fox is managing the henhouse!

Mary Martin Oceano

10 • Sun • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

Opinion

Saddle up

W

e’ve finally got some races on our hands for the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors! Not one supervisor who’s up for reelection is running unopposed in the March primary.

Huzzah!

Great! What do we have for quality candidates?

Mm. That one’s a bit tough to discern.

Restaurateur and Carpinteria City Councilmember Roy Lee is running against incumbent Das Williams in the 1st District; Manzanita Public Charter School board member Krishna Flores is running against incumbent Bob Neslon in the 4th; and investment banker Frank T. Troise and current Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne are challenging Joan Hartmann for her 3rd District seat.

I don’t know much about that 1st District race, but it sure sounds like it’s a couple of seasoned electeds facing off. In the 4th District race, Flores is upset that Nelson wasn’t involved enough in Los Alamos during his last two years as its representative—you know, after redistricting wrapped up in 2021. He apparently didn’t hold enough community meetings there for her liking.

She would hold them all the time if she was elected, the school board member said.

“I think there’s a lot to learn from listening,” she said.

Nelson believes that more community services districts in unincorporated communities would enable them to better advocate for their needs.

Those special districts, he said, have more power to directly serve constituents than a larger governing body, like the county Board of Supervisors, which is concerned with multiple communities simultaneously.

Troise of SoHo Capital, a wealth management firm, seems to be holding the 3rd District race hostage with his budget priorities—a strange tactic. But will it work?

He tasked his SoHo people to come up with a budget that tackles what he foresees as a $15 million to $20 million deficit. They came up with 14 different priorities, which he’s presenting to his fellow 3rd District candidates.

“If either Jenelle or the incumbent came to us and [said], ‘We will do this, we agree with you that this is a road map to get us from point A to point B,’ I will drop out of the race,” he said. “This election should be over by March 5.”

Excuse me? Adopt this or else I’m running against you. So who’s running? Troise or SoHo Capital? Super strange.

Osborne said she’s running because Hartmann is too South County focused.

“There’s just been an ideology that so aligns with South County that it stops hearing what mid or North County is trying to accomplish,” Osborne said.

Oh! She’s too liberal, maybe? But I thought Osborne, who’s running as an independent, was actually more liberal than conservative. I’m so confused. Maybe Hartmann isn’t enough of a Lompoc liberal for Osborne.

Osborne also said she wanted to see a respect for “organic growth” in communities. Is she upset about the county’s recently passed Housing Element, which lays down plans to help some areas grow more organically than they have been? I’m not sure. She didn’t specify.

Maybe as March 5 bears down upon us, we’ll get a little more information from the challengers.

For instance, everyone wants to know exactly what’s going on with Pea Soup Andersen’s in Buellton. We want answers, people. m The Canary is a pea soup progressive. Send ham to canary@santamariasun.com.

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MARDI GRAS MAMBO ft. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Cha’s Friday, February 9 • 7:30pm Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

GARAGISTE “SOUTHERN EXPOSURE” FESTIVAL IN SOLVANG Fri or Sat, February 9 or 10 Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall

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www.santamariasun.com • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • Sun • 11 Santa Maria Sun - Ad 02

Hot Stuff

10-DAY CALENDAR: JANUARY 18 - JANUARY 28, 2024

WINGS IN WATERCOLOR

Local artist Fred Ventura will lead his upcoming Birds of the Winter Garden workshops at Trilogy Monarch Dunes in Nipomo on Friday, Jan. 19, and Art Center Morro Bay on Friday, Jan. 26, from noon to 3 p.m. both days. Participants of both classes will learn various techniques related to painting birds in watercolor. Visit venturaes.com/workshops for more info. Ventura’s own bird art will be on display at Art Center Morro Bay through Monday, Feb. 19.

—Caleb Wiseblood

FILE COURTESY IMAGE BY FRED VENTURA

ARTS SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. 805-928-7799.

Kleindancesarts.com. KleinDance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.

CHARLOTTE’S WEB Presented by Santa Maria Civic Theatre (SMCT). Step into the magical world of E.B. White’s beloved classic. Through Jan. 28 my805tix.com.

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

DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. ongoing Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.

LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE: WEST COAST SWING Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45 p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 832-884-8114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

CALIFORNIA’S CHANGING LANDSCAPE: THE WAY OF WATER Featuring more than 20 large-format documentary inkjet photographs of the Golden State, this timely exhibition showcases George Rose’s recent expansive documentation of California’s dramatic water story. Through July 8 Wildling Museum of Art and Nature,

1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, 805-688-1082, wildlingmuseum.org.

CHUCK GRAHAM: LECTURE AND BOOK SIGNING Local author Chuck Graham, kayak photographer and Carpinteria lifeguard, celebrates the publication of his latest release. Jan. 26, 4:30-6 p.m.

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

MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE An installation

by Northridge-based artist Elizabeth Criss. Through Feb. 1 wildlingmuseum.org.

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

WINTER SALON View this annual group show during the gallery’s regular hours, daily, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Through Feb. 1 805-688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

NEW WORKS BY STEVE ANDREWS Andrews’ artwork will be on display during January and February at The Clark Center. Through Feb. 29 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/about/visual-arts-exhibit/.

Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

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

ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers

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

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

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free.

805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BE A TREE PAINTER WITH CATHERINE LEMOINE Try your hand at this coastal oak tree project. See what you can do to make it interesting and change the background to match your thought pattern. There is a lot to learn about tree painting. Join for half a day or full day.

Jan. 20, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. & 1:30-4 p.m. $45 for half-day; $75 for full day. 805-863-4287. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Fourth Thursday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options.

Beginners welcomed. ongoing 805-8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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.

12 • Sun • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

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.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel.

Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece.

Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-6:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ENHANCE YOUR CREATIVITY WITH JASON MAYR Give your creativity the gift of a jump start in the New Year. You’ll be led through exercises and examples to gain insight and inspiration that will fuel you forward in 2024. All levels are welcome.

Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Feb. 22 $185 for 5 sessions. 805-234-6940.

Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, artcentralslo.wordpress.com.

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

805-543-8562. sloma.org/visit/tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

INTERMEDIATE OIL PAINTING: ADULT ART CLASS This class is for students who may have tried oil painting in the past but are looking to advance their skill levels.

Color theory and proportion study will be a focus in the class. Mondays, 2-5 p.m. $30 per student or $75 for 3 classes. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INDEX Arts.......................................12 Culture & Lifestyle ...........13 Food & Drink ......................16 Music ...................................16

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.

LEAH ROSENBERG Rosenberg works across artistic media to spark new experiences of color. Using painting, installation, printmaking, sculpture, performance, and video, she invites viewers to consider how color can be perceived both multi-sensorially and multi-dimensionally. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., 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 Free.

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

ORCHESIS DANCE COMPANY PRESENTS RETROGRADE Retrograde is inspired by the namesake compositional tool that employs manipulating movement phrases in pure reverse, like watching video backward. Reversing phrases creates new ways of looking at prior material. All choreographers are tasked with incorporating a moment or more of retrograde within their dances. ThursdaysSundays, 7:30 p.m. and Jan. 20, 2 p.m. through Jan. 27 $20 general admission. theatredance.calpoly.edu/orchesisretrograde-winter-2024. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, 805-756-7113.

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

POTTERY: BEGINNING WHEEL CLASS This series is a great intro to the pottery wheel. Students learn to throw various

shapes, surface decorate, and glaze.

Clay and firing included with admission.

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

RICE PAPER COLLAGE: MONARCH SEASON WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM Receive step by step instruction for creating a beautiful Monarch Butterfly-themed rice paper collage. You’ll use hand painted rice papers and acrylic paints. Beginners are welcome and no experience is necessary.

Jan. 27, 1-4:30 p.m. $40. 805-478-2158. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, artcentralslo.wordpress.com.

SUITE SURRENDER It’s 1942, and two of Hollywood’s biggest divas have descended upon the luxurious Palm Beach Royale Hotel — assistants, luggage, and legendary feud with one another in tow.

Everything seems to be in order, until they are somehow assigned to the same suite. Wednesdays-Sundays, 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through Jan. 21 $15-$25. 805-786-2440. slorep.org/shows/ suite-surrender/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

UBU’S OTHER SHOE STAGED READING: THE REVOLUTIONISTS Four beautiful, badass women lose their heads in this irreverent, girl-powered comedy set during the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror.

This grand and dream-tweaked comedy is about violence and legacy, art and activism, feminism and terrorism, and how we actually go about changing the world.

Jan. 26-27, 7-8:30 p.m. and Jan. 27, 2-3:30 p.m. $15-$25. 805-786-2440. slorep.org/ shows/the-revolutionists/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

CAMERA: A CHARITY FILM SCREENING The film, starring Beau Bridges, was partly shot on location in Morro Bay. This benefit screening will feature a special guest appearance. Jan. 20, 5 p.m. my805tix.com.

Bay Theater, 464 Morro Bay Blvd, Morro Bay, 805-772-2444.

DEBRA PIAZZA: ACRYLIC, MIXED MEDIA ARTIST Piazza began her painting career during the pandemic, and uses handmade

ARTS continued page 13

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JANUARY 18 - JANUARY 28, 2024 IMAGE COURTESY OF THE SANTA MARIA CIVIC THEATRE

ARTS from page 12 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. FEATHERS IN FLIGHT: A GROUP PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW This exhibit showcases the Morro Bay Bird Festival month with photographs of birds, and bird habitats in countrysides and oceansides (all the places where our wildlife friends live and thrive; hunt and sing). Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Jan. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. LITTLE GIANTS Part of the Salty Cinema Series. Jan. 24, 6 p.m. my805tix.com/. Bay Theater, 464 Morro Bay Blvd, Morro Bay, 805-772-2444.

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.

OIL PAINTINGS BY RON DIEB “My oil paintings explore possibilities through thickly applied, vibrant color utilized freely with both knives and brushes. Hopefully, my art will attract and engage others to appreciate the glimpses of beauty that surrounds us all,” the artist stated.

Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Jan. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. PEACE WITH ART: AN INTIMATE BECOME THE ART EXPERIENCE An intimate, empowering experience where

WEB TROTTER

Performances of Charlotte’s Web run through Sunday, Jan. 28, at the Santa Maria Civic Theatre. Written for the stage by Joseph Robinette and directed by Lynda Mondragon, this theatrical adaptation of E.B. White’s charming novel follows a pig named Wilbur who befriends a spider named Charlotte. Tickets to the show are available in advance at my805tix.com.

Visit smct.org for more info. The Santa Maria Civic Theatre is located at 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

—C.W.

you will go home with a painting that you created, and are the artwork itself. Jan. 26, 5-8 p.m. my805tix.com/. Bare Heart, 1333 Van Beurden Drive, suite 201, Los Osos.

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

SMALL WORKS AND BOOKS BY GEORGE ASDEL George Asdel is an accomplished painter, poet, and craftsman. Over his long career as an artist, he has won awards for his acrylic paintings, pen and ink drawings,

SMVGS MEETING Visitors welcome.

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

LVBHS GENERAL MEETING AND PROGRAM The Lompoc Valley Botanic and Horticultural Society will open the new year with its regular business meeting, followed by a program on the fascinating adaptations that plants have developed to protect themselves. Jan. 21, 2-4 p.m. Free entry. 805-450-3668. lvbhs.org. Stone Pine Hall, 210 South H St., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

illustrated books, greeting cards, and poetry. Reception on Jan. 13, from 3 to 5 p.m. Through Jan. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. WINTER GARDEN INTERACTIVE WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP This threehour watercolor workshop introduces the basics of drawing and watercolor painting techniques, mixing colors, and color application. Fred Ventura will emphasize the steps artists take to create accurate images of birds using watercolors. Jan. 26, 12-3 p.m. $50.

805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

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.

BOUNCING BABY STORY TIME Explore pre-literacy skills through music, movement, and visual stimulation, and promote a healthy bond between baby and caregiver. Learn, connect, and grow

with other babies and their caregivers.

For ages 0-12 months. This program runs approximately 30 minutes. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. through Feb. 14 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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

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.

EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its meeting on the third Saturday of each month. For more information, follow on Facebook at Bishop’s Peak EGA or visit the EGA website. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 16 Free. egausa.com. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach, 805-773-4832.

TERRARIUM WORKSHOP A hands-on workshop where you will learn to create and care for your own self-sustaining miniature ecosystem. All workshop participants will receive 15 percent off any purchases made directly after the workshop. Jan. 23, 6-8 p.m. $85. 805-5743793. pacificplantco.com. Pacific Plant Co., 859 N. Oak Park Blvd., Pismo Beach.

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 CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 14 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

cal poly mustangs WOMEN’S BASKETBALL VS CAL STATE BAKERSFIELD S AT U R D AY, J A N 2 0 T H | 2 P M

See you in

Bring the Mott Magic!

W R E S T L I N G VS CAL STATE BAKERSFIELD S U N D AY, J A N 2 1 S T | 3 P M

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JANUARY 18 - JANUARY 28, 2024 PHOTO COURTESY OF ORCUTT ICE CREAM KITCHEN

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 13 SAN LUIS OBISPO

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AGING GRACEFULLY ONLINE WORKSHOP Discover how to adjust your lifestyle so you can become healthier, live longer, and not look for “pills and surgery” solutions. These online classes focus on the major areas that have shown positive results. Two six-week session options to choose from. Mondays, 6-7:30 p.m. through Feb. 12 Free. 805-489-7359. unity5cities.org. Online, San Luis Obispo.

BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. 559-9059274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

BOARD PRESIDENT/CHAIR ROUNDTABLE (FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS) Facilitated peer networking and problem-solving opportunities. Participants share good news, something that’s “keeping them up at night,” or discuss a “spotlight topic.”

Confidentiality encourages mutual support and a candid exchange of ideas.

Please register. Jan. 18, 1-2 p.m. $10; Free for Spokes members. 805-547-2244. spokesfornonprofits.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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

FOSTERING COMMON PURPOSE WITHIN THE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY, PROTECTION, AND BEAUTIFICATION SECTOR (FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS) This roundtable gathers representatives from local nonprofits that serve to promote environmental quality, protection, and beautification, to accomplish the following: build relationships between those in the same nonprofit sector; share challenges, successes, and opportunities; and seek and receive feedback and support from peers. Jan. 24, 10-11 a.m. Free. 805-5472244. spokesfornonprofits.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

GROUNDSWELL INTERNATIONAL: 15TH ANNIVERSARY Hear how GI promotes sustainable ag in vulnerable countries; a positive force in fighting climate change.

Refreshments provided. Questions and RSVP: 805-235-5778. Event is not sponsored by the United Church of Christ (host is renting the venue). Jan. 27, 2-4 p.m. Free. 805-235-5778. United Church of Christ (Congregational) of San Luis Obispo, 11245 Los Osos Valley Rd., San Luis Obispo.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A safe place to share life experiences with those who have depression or have had and recovered from the devastating effects of depression.

Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free.

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

MASTERING PRESS RELEASES FOR FREE PUBLICITY (FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS) When crafted skillfully, press releases have the potential to generate valuable publicity for your nonprofit event or organization. In this class, you’ll learn and practice a simple formula for creating an effective press release. You’ll also learn tips for how to distribute it to media. Jan. 18, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $60; $35 for Spokes members.

805-547-2244. spokesfornonprofits.org.

People’s Self-Help Housing, 1060 Kendall Road, San Luis Obispo.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted

by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.

PLUG-IN TO LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION Get inspired by local action, connect with others, and discover more ways to get involved with the SLO Climate Coalition.

Attend virtually or in-person. Sustainable

PINT PARTY

Orcutt Ice Cream Kitchen hosts its first Naughty Oak pop-up of 2024 on Thursday, Jan. 18, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Along with Naughty Oak’s regular menu offerings, pints of ice cream will be available to patrons for $8 each. Single servings, aka Little Moos, will also be available for $3 each. Visit orcutticecreamkitchen. com for more info. The Naughty Oak Brewing Company is located at 165 Broadway St., unit 102, Orcutt.

—C.W. Please RSVP. Fourth Sunday of every snacks and childcare will be provided. month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are Third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. free; donations are appreciated. Octagon sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. Ludwick Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

San Luis Obispo.

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY) This is providing peer-to-peer support for trans, a social support group for LGBTQ+ and gender non-conforming, non-binary, questioning youth between the ages and questioning people. In-person of 11-18. Each week the group explores and Zoom meetings held. Contact personal, cultural, and social identity. tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/ details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA events/. Online, San Luis Obispo.

Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm QI GONG FITNESS ONLINE Qi Gong is a Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252. gentle but powerful way to strengthen TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP body, mind, and spirit. Great for balance.

This group is a safe place for trans* and Instructor: Gary West, through Adult gender non-conforming people, as well School, San Luis Coastal Unified School as those questioning, from ages of 11 to District. An online class. Wednesdays, 18. A facilitated emotional support group 9:35-10:35 a.m. through May 22 $90. to be heard, share your story, and hear 805-549-1222. ae.slcusd.org/. Online, See stories that may sound surprisingly like website, San Luis Obispo. your own. Fourth Tuesday of every month, SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY) A 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity good core group of friends who gather to Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, discuss topics we love/ care about from 805-541-4252. movies, outings, music, or being new to VOLUNTEER SOLAR INSTALLER the area. We come from all walks of life TRAINING WEBINAR WITH SUNWORK and most importantly support each other.

Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Learn the basics of installing rooftop solar energy systems and water heater Third Friday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. electrification by volunteering with Free. sloqueer.groups.io/g/lezbfriends.

SunWork. This three-hour online event Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. teaches the basics of rooftop solar, solar SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB equipment, electricity, and construction MEETINGS Want to improve speaking safety. This orientation is a great and leadership skills in a supportive and opportunity to learn about clean, renewable positive environment? During COVID, we energy. Jan. 20, 9 a.m.-noon Free. 805-229are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a 1250. sunwork.org/sunwork-central-coast/. meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m.

Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org.

YOUR NEW VIBE: INTENTION, Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID. MANIFESTATION, EMPOWERED ACTION SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ An inspiring and rejuvenating Women’s AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY) Alcoholics Day Retreat hosted by Women Making Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide Waves. Jan. 28, 1-5 p.m. my805tix.com/. fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. website, San Luis Obispo.

Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, GROUP Learn more about mental health intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide and coping skills to help you through your range of techniques and skills. Mask journey towards wellness and recovery.

Required. Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 805-540Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 6576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Piney Way, Morro Bay, 805-772-2840, Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. sttimothymorrobay.org/index.html.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous 1906, has a rich history that The Land (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 16 looks forward to sharing with visitors.

10th Annual Southern Exposure Garagiste Wine Festival

El Chorro Regional Park, SLO

Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall

FRI, SAT, SUN, JUNE 14, 15, 16 TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

CC Comedy Theater: Improv Comedy Show

Shamanic Morning Rituals for Vitality

Sgt. Pepper (Beatles Tribute)

SweetHART Dance with Zongo All-Stars

Allan Hancock College Rodeo Spring Roundup

Cambria Vets Hall

Santa Maria Elks Event Center

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10

SLO County Jazz Federation: The Idiomatiques

THURS & FRI, MARCH 14 & 15

SMCT Presents: Charlotte’s Web

Salty Cinema Series: Citizen Kane, Camera, The Perfect Storm, Little Giants

Peace with Art: An Intimate Become-the-Art Experience

THURSDAY, JANUARY 18 SLO Wine and Beer Company

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, SLO

FRI, SAT, SUN, JANUARY 19–28 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

SLO Tease: Still Hungry A Tantalizing Night of Burlesque

Mo Betta Jazz: Jazz in the Afternoon

Brass Mash by the Beach!

Full Moon Ceremony & 2024 Intention Setting

Danny Grasseschi presents: Calum Graham in Concert

GS3 Events: Utter Scorn (Death Metal) + 4 other bands

Noches de Karaoke y Bandas with DJ Kazanova

SLOFunny Comedy Show: Headliner Subhah Agarwal

Lose Your Illustion (Guns n’ Roses Tribute)

FRI & SAT, JANUARY 19 & 20 South Bay Community Center, Los Osos

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20 OLD SLO BBQ Co.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20 THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 Rib Line by the Beach, Grover Beach Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 The Siren El Chorro, Dairy Creek Golf, SLO

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Science After Dark Lecture Series

The Life and Music of George Michael

Laugh Therapy Stand Up Comedy Show

SLO County Jazz Fed: Andy Martin Septet “Blues & The Abstract Truth”

TUESDAY, JANUARY 30 Central Coast Aquarium, Avila Beach

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31 Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31 Maverick Saloon, Santa Ynez

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, SLO

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 Banner Coffee Co., Arroyo Grande

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 Oceano Elks Lodge

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 Crows End Retreat Center, SLO

Evelyn Grove and Whose House Is This?

Misfit Live Comedy & SLO Comedy Underground: Michael Mancini

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

It’s free! Contact us for more info: Tiny Porch Concerts

Central Coast Aquarium

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

Point San Luis Lighthouse Tours IN-PERSON TOURS: WEDS & SAT VIRTUAL TOURS: ON DEMAND Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

SLOFunny Comedy Show

2024 SEASON PASS TEN SHOWS MARCH–DECEMBER Paso Robles & San Luis Obispo

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 Bare Heart Boudoir, Los Osos

Basin Street Regulars: Carl Sonny Your New Vibe: Intention, Leyland’s Boogie Woogie Boys Manifestation, Empowered Action

SELL TICKETS WITH US! 2024 VIP SEASON TICKETS FOUR SHOWS MAY–AUGUST Peter Strauss Ranch, Agoura Hills

FRI, SAT, TUES, WED, JANUARY 19–24 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

805-546-8208 info@My805Tix.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Paso Lounge, Paso Robles

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www.santamariasun.com • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • Sun • 15

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JANUARY 18 - JANUARY 28, 2024 COURTESY PHOTO BY ACACIA PRODUCTIONS

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 14

Entertainment Menu Jan 18th – 27th Appetizer Friday Jan. 19th

SGT PEPPER Beatles Tribute Band – 7pm

Second Course Sat. Jan. 20th

Marion Meadows Jazz Artist – 7pm

Main Course Friday, Jan. 26th

Latin Banda – 8pm Dessert Saturday, Jan. 27th

Loose your Illusion Gun’s N Roses Tribute Band – 7pm Entertainment so good you’ll say “more please”

110 W Ocean Ave, Lompoc (805) 819-0174

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A Charity Film Screening benefit for morro bay high arts dept.

Saturday, January 20 • 5pm Bay Theatre, Morro Bay Presented by:

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for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others.

Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom).

For information, call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/.

Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654.

FREE OUTRIGGER CANOE DEMO DAYS Athletes wanted. Pale Kai Outrigger is a nonprofit outrigger canoe club. The club offers competitive Hawaiian-style outrigger canoe racing for men and women and are opening up club registration for 2024. All levels and abilities welcome. Space is limited. Signup online now.

Every other Saturday, 8-10 & 10 a.m.-noon through Feb. 25 Free. palekai.org/joinus/.

Coleman Park, Morro Bay, 101 Coleman Drive, Morro Bay, (805) 772-6278.

FULL MOON CEREMONY AND 2024 INTENTION SETTING Manifest your most heartfelt desires in 2024. Jan. 25, 7-8:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. 9th Limb Yoga, 845 Napa Ave., Morro Bay, 415-852-1787.

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

Vaccinations are necessary. Enter through wooden gate to garden area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. 805-528-7111. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays 805-922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE INN Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805-332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty.

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

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

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

SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

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

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

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

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

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

NOURISH LOMPOC This unique free community experience will blend nutritional education with hands-on learning, using locally sourced fresh produce. In collaboration with Veggie Rescue, the event will include the use of surplus food to make a hearty, delicious, and nutritious soup. Jan. 20, 1-4 p.m. Free.

805-737-5762. lhdfoundation.org. Dick DeWees Community & Senior Center, 1120 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

16 • Sun • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

SAN LUIS OBISPO

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA NIGHT Live multi-media trivia every Wednesday. Free to play. Win prizes.

Teams up to six players. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. headgamestrivia.com. Antigua Brewing, 1009 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-242-1167.

HOPPY HOUR (SELECT FRIDAYS) Visit some of the best craft beverage locations in San Luis Obispo. Tours start at The Hub on selected Fridays. Check site for full schedule and tickets.

Fridays, 3-7 p.m. through Jan. 26 behoppytours.com/. The Hub, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

QUEER TRIVIA Sip some cider, test your LGBTQ trivia knowledge, and learn new fun facts. Topic themes and hosts rotate each week. Prizes for winners. BYO food. Third Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. 805-292-1500. Two Broads Ciderworks, 3427 Roberto Ct., suite 130, San Luis Obispo, twobroadscider.com.

MUSIC

WINE SIGNAGE

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, 805623-8866.

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

Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing 805-9250464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/lessons.html.

Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

RON MILLER LIVE Enjoy live music from Ron Miller. Visit site or call for more details. Jan. 26, 6-9 p.m. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious.

Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

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.

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

Studios on the Park hosts a Vinpressions event with winemaker and artist Jordan Fiorentini on Thursday, Jan. 25, from 6 to 7 p.m. Fiorentini will guide guests though the Vinpressions process, which involves using drawing to express how different wines smell, taste, and feel while sipped.

Admission is $40. Visit studiosonthepark.org for more event details. For more info on Vinpressions, visit epochwines.com/vinpressions. Studios on the Park is located at 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

—C.W. DO-KWA PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS FIRST LADIES OF DISCO A rocking, on your feet, tribute to music from the ’70s, ‘80s, and ’90s.

Jan. 25, 7:30-10:30 p.m. $47-$67. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/first-ladies-of-disco/.

Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett plays guitarwoven music with an indie attitude. Jan. 21, 1-4 p.m. eastoneverett.com. Blacklake Golf Course, 1490 Golf Course Lane, Nipomo, 805-343-1214.

EASTON EVERETT LIVE Easton Everett plays guitar-woven music with an indie attitude, with songs in distinctive stylistic shapes outside the pop mainstream. Jan. 18, noon eastoneverett. com. Mulligans Bar and Grill, 6460 Ana Bay Road, Avila Beach, 805-595-4000.

GUITARIST CALUM GRAHAM IN CONCERT Renowned Canadian fingerstyle guitarist Calum Graham brings his music to California’s Central Coast. Graham weaves a masterful tapestry of acoustic, baritone, and harp guitar melodies, with original compositions infused with folk, world, soul, blues, and jazz. Opening act: SLOCal singer and guitarist Danny Grasseschi. Jan. 25, 7 p.m. $25-$30. my805tix.com. Banner Coffee Company, 995 E. Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande, 805-225-4481.

KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY Enjoy some good food and karaoke. Fridays, 5-8 p.m. 805-7235550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo.

KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly MUSIC event with barbecue offerings and more.

Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, 805-925-3500.

FLAVOR/EATS RIFF TIDE ROCKS MULLIGANS Riff Tide has added some fabulous new music to the venue’s 2024 set list. Jan. 19, 5-7 p.m. Free show. 805INFO 595-4000. Mulligans Bar and Grill, 6460 Ana Bay Road, Avila Beach.

LOSE YOUR ILLUSION A tribute to Guns N’ Roses. All ages welcome. Jan. 27, 7-11 p.m. my805tix.com/. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

NOCHE DE KARAOKE BANDAS Enjoy music with a little karaoke and DJ Kazanova on the side. Jan. 26, 8 p.m. my805tix.com/. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

SGT. PEPPER LIVE Enjoy this Beatles tribute, live in concert. Jan. 19, 7-11 p.m. my805tix.com.

FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment CALENDAR for first time performers SAN LUIS OBISPO and an opportunity for kids and teens to BLUES WEDNESDAYS Send event information to calendar@ OPINION showcase their talent.

Spinning blues records santamariasun.com.

Prizes awarded every all night. Chicago, month for Outstanding Memphis, Delta, Detroit, Performer. Last Friday NEWSand more. Visit this new of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. vinyl bar in the Railroad District. Acoustically Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc. treated room, old-school sound system, big speakers, but always at a polite volume. Plenty STROKES SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y of free parking. Wednesdays, 2-8 p.m. Free.

BRASS MASH BY THE BEACH Enjoy a night of 313-316-7097. Jan’s Place, 1817 Osos St., San Luis live brass music, dancing, and more. Jan. 20, Obispo, jansplaceslo.com.

ARTS 6:30-11:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Ribline by the CAL POLY BACH WEEK AKADEMIE LECTURE: Beach, 395 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

BACH’S EVANGELIST Bach Week Co-Director CARL SONNY LEYLAND: BASIN STREET Scott Glysson will trace the history of Bach’s REGULARS An enchanting performance by Passions as a musical setting. Vocalists Brian Carl Sonny Leyland and His All Stars and an Giebler and Ben Kazez and accompanist Paul opening act from the Cuesta College Combo.

Woodring will help demonstrate the various Elk members and BSR members will receive the roles of the main characters that will be discounted rate of $10. Jan. 28, 1-4 p.m. $10 for examined and demonstrated. Jan. 18, 7:30 members; $15 for non-members. p.m. Free. 805-756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/ my805tix.com/. Oceano Elks Lodge, 410 calendar. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room Air Park Drive, Oceano.

218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

Spread the word!

CAL POLY BACH WEEK CHAMBER CONCERT: THE TRIO SONATA IDEAL This program will explore the evolution of the trio sonata throughout the Baroque period, in works by Bach, Castello, Corelli, Handel, and others.

The program will also present early vocal works for two singers and continuo by Claudio Monteverdi. Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m. $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/ calendar. First Presbyterian Church of San Luis Obispo, 981 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY BACH WEEK FINALE: ST. JOHN PASSION Bach’s dramatic St. John Passion was first performed in 1724. This setting narrates the Passion of Christ as found in the Gospel of John. The Evangelist will be sung by guest artist Brian Giebler, Jan. 21, 3 p.m. $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/ calendar/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY BACH WEEK INSTRUMENTAL MASTER CLASS AND CONTINUO WORKSHOP Guest artists Leif Woodward, cello, and Andrew McIntosh, violin, will coach Cal Poly students in instrumental repertoire from the Baroque era, with a focus on historically informed performance. During the second half, the guest artists will coach students in effective continuo playing Jan. 18, 11:10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free.

805-756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY BACH WEEK VOCAL MASTER CLASS Guest artist Brian Giebler will coach several Cal Poly voice students in repertoire from the Baroque era. Jan. 18, 3:10-4 p.m. Free.

805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

THE IDIOMATIQUES Presented by the San Luis Obispo County Jazz Federation. Jan. 19, 7:30-9:45 p.m. my805tix.com. Mount Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks St., San Luis Obispo.

LIVE MUSIC AT LIQUID GRAVITY Check social media and calendar for weekly updates.

Fridays, 6-9 p.m. and Saturdays, 2-5 p.m. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, San Luis Obispo.

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

TURTLE ISLAND QUARTET: ISLAND PRAYERS The Grammy-winning Turtle Island Quartet returns to SLO with a captivating new program. This evening will showcase works commissioned by and created for TIQ from renowned composers Terence Glanchard, Rhiannon Giddens, Jerod Impichchaachaaha Tate, and founder David Balakrishnan. Jan. 19, 7:30-9 p.m. $24-$53. 8057562787. calpolyarts.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. m

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Arts

STAGE PHOTO COURTESY OF LEN EVANS

ARTS BRIEFS Kenny Metcalf brings Elton John tribute to Santa Ynez

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHUMASH CASINO RESORT

A touring tribute act is heading to the Santa Ynez Valley for an upcoming concert at the Chumash Casino Resort. On Friday, Jan. 26, Elton & The Early Years Band—musician Kenny Metcalf’s tribute to Elton John—will perform in the casino’s Samala Showroom at 8 p.m.

Over the years, Metcalf has carefully curated his act to “bring the full essence of Elton John’s spectacular shows to every single performance,” according to press materials, including emphasis on authentic costumes and other concert aspects to pay homage to Elton John’s performances.

Metcalf became an instant fan of Elton John’s after hearing his voice for the first time during the 1970s. A former drummer, Metcalf was inspired by Elton John to learn piano.

In the 1980s, Metcalf toured with the rock group Stryper as the band’s stage keyboardist. After departing from the band, Metcalf opened his own studio where he recorded with several artists and gained experience as a studio engineer.

Attendees of Metcalf’s upcoming show at the Chumash Casino Resort can look forward to hearing covers of “Benny and the Jets,” “Rocket Man,” “Candle in the Wind,” and more of Elton John’s hits. Tickets to the concert are $20 each. Visit chumashcasino.com or call (805) 686-0855 for more info.

The Chumash Casino Resort is located at 3400 Highway 246, Santa Ynez.

Lompoc Parks and Recreation hosts Father Daughter Dance FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOMPOC PARKS AND RECREATION DIVISION

TERRIFIC TRIO: Disco pioneers (left to right) Linda Clifford, Martha Wash, and Norma Jean Wright take the stage on Jan. 25 at the Clark Center for Performing Arts.

Let’s dance D

isco is alive and well—and an iconic trio of women who were pioneers in the scene are bringing the groovy genre straight to the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande.

“It’s a celebration and stroll down memory lane for everyone involved,” Martha Wash said.

“Especially since it’s music performed by the people who originally sang and helped bring these songs to life.”

Wash is one of the disco divas performing First Ladies of Disco: The Ultimate Flash Back Experience at the venue on Jan. 25. Wash will be joined by fellow singers Norma Jean Wright and Linda Clifford, and the trio will perform classic disco hits from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s alongside newer songs the group has penned together.

“Music in modern times focuses more on the youth, which is fine, but we wanted to show that we still had our groove on,” Clifford said with a laugh.

Part of what made disco music special, she said, was the emotion that the singers showed onstage, often accentuating the fun and the passion they had, which served to get people up and dancing.

“When you come to this, you are getting the real deal,” Clifford said. “Because it is songs not only by the artists who helped write them but also perform them back then as well.”

Clifford contributed vocals to several hits MUSIC

FLAVOR/EATS

Locals have three opportunities to participate in Lompoc’s Father Daughter Dance, held at the Anderson Recreation Center on Feb. 2, 3, and 4, from 6:30 to 8:30 each evening.

Doors will open each night at 5 p.m. for photo opportunities (portrait packages will be available for sale, separate from the admission price). Entry to the semiformal event is $30 per couple, and $15 for each additional child within the same family. Pre-registration is required to attend.

According to press materials, the dance, hosted by the Lompoc Parks and Recreation Division, is open to “young ladies, ages 3 to 18, and the man in their life—whether that’s their dad or another father figure.” Attendees must be accompanied by at least one adult. Access to refreshments at the dance will be included in the entry fee.

To find out more about the event, call the Lompoc Parks and Recreation Division at (805) 875-8100 or visit cityoflompoc.com. The Anderson Recreation Center is located at 125 W. Walnut Ave., Lompoc. m Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

including, “If My Friends Could See Me Now” and “Red Light.” Both songs appeared in the Oscarwinning movie Fame.

Wash is a two-time Grammy nominee who performed on classic hits like “It’s Raining Men” by the Weather Girls, “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now) by C + C Music Factory, and “Everybody Everybody” and “Strike it Up” by Black Box. She also worked in the ’90s to ensure that her vocals were properly credited on CDs and future releases from those groups, a practice she continues to advocate for today.

Staff Writer Adrian Vincent Rosas, from the Sun’s Wright contributed to hits like “Dance Dance sister paper, New Times, is dancing the night away.

Dance” and “Everybody Dance” as a former Reach him at arosas@newtimesslo.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEN EVANS member of the band Chic. After leaving that group, Wright also found success as a solo artist with her hit song “Saturday.”

The upcoming Jan. 25 performance originates from a book of the same name that highlights the female contributions in the evolution of disco, funk, and soul music in the 20th century.

“We liked being part of that book and experience of remembering all that we did so we decided to expand upon it,” Wash said. “Part of this was also an opportunity to unite ALL TOGETHER NOW: The power trio of (left to right) Linda onstage together and showcase our Clifford, Martha Wash, and Norma Jean Wright bring years of friendship and chemistry we have experience in the music industry and an onstage chemistry fostered for years.” fueled by lifelong friendships.

The book also helped the

First Ladies of Disco brings grooves, boogie, and a classic lineup to the Clark Center

BY ADRIAN VINCENT ROSAS

INFO

trio develop a creative relationship outside of performing the songs again. In 2016, they released their debut album as a group, Show Some Love, which garnered attention on Billboard dance charts.

In 2018, they found even more success with— what they say their fans consider to be their best song—“Don’t Stop Me Now,” which they’ll open the show with.

“It’s a feel-good show, a blend of new and old hits that we have all contributed to, all experienced part of,” Wright said. “When they are going to the show, they are getting a true live show performance, which I think is one of the most important parts.”

They have some help in bringing these songs to life, Wright said, as it’s not just the three of them performing. Modern-day disco revival artists like Anita Ward, Janice-Marie, Thea Austin, and Marsha Warfield will all perform as backing singers alongside a live band that tours with the group.

The trio is hopeful that with the rising reemergence of disco among younger audiences, the show can spark even more appreciation for the genre they helped pioneer.

“I think what we are hoping for too is younger people coming to this and understanding the impact that disco and the classics have had—and continue to have on modern music,” Clifford said.

“There’s a bit of revival going on right now with modern takes on disco music, so this is the perfect time to jump into why it’s making a resurgence.”

Whether listeners know all the classics by heart or are just discovering them, the trio hopes the audience will want to get up and groove.

“You are not going to want to remain seated for long with the energy we have onstage and music hyping you up,” Wash said. “We expect people to get up from their seats, groove—come on people, let’s boogie!” m

COURTESY PHOTO BY BILL MCMENAMY PHOTOGRAPHY

Get your groove on

Snag tickets to First Ladies of Disco: The Ultimate Flash Back Experience—taking place at the Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave, Arroyo Grande, on Jan. 25—by visiting clarkcenter.org.

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

GET UP AND DANCE: Martha Wash said First Ladies of Disco will get audiences off their feet and dancing like it’s the ’70s all over again.

18 • Sun • January 18 - January 25, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

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Film Buzz off D

SUN SCREEN

but unfortunately the “pleasure” part was left out all together for me. Statham’s swarthy grumpiness usually proves entertaining and endearing, but there was very little chance for avid Ayer (Fury, Suicide Squad) directs him to shine in this. His motivations are fairly this revenge flick written by Kurt Wimmer weak to go on an all-out kill fest, the dastardly (Salt, Expen4bles) about a mild-mannered bad guys are trite caricatures, and the ending beekeeper named Adam Clay (Jason Statham) fails to satisfy the story in any meaningful way. who turns out to have a been an operator for a I’ll rewatch The Meg over this any day. Heck, clandestine organization called Beekeepers, that I’d watch Meg Two: The Trench again over rights wrongs. After his friend and neighbor is this. While I’m all for encouraging people to fleeced by a phishing scam and commits suicide, see films in the theater, this fails to entertain he exacts his revenge on the company responsible, enough to cover the price of a discounted ticket. killing his way right to the top. (105 min.)

I did hear some college-aged dudes leave the theater ranking it “a 7.2,” so clearly there’s an Glen: I like Jason Statham, though apparently audience out there that got more enjoyment out not as much as he likes a paycheck. Many of his of The Beekeeper than I did, but don’t go into choices over his career seem suspect, and I’d this film thinking that Statham can save the file The Beekeeper with his dumber films such day here—there’s just not much to work with as Ghosts of Mars (2001), Wild Card (2015), besides an explosive budget. and The Meg (2018), the latter Glen: We both might be the of which is arguably a guilty odd ones out. Critic (68 percent) THE BEEKEEPER pleasure because it’s so dumb. and audience scores (93 percent) What’s it rated? R The Beekeeper isn’t quite are high on Rotten Tomatoes, What’s it worth, Glen? Stream it bad enough to be good. The but for me, meh. And I love a What’s it worth, Anna? Skip it story’s sappy and implausible; good vigilante story, usually Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards the dialogue and beekeeping about an everyman (or woman) RPX Santa Maria, Regal Edwards references feel inauthentic and forced to draw deep into his Arroyo Grande, Movies Lompoc forced. Even the fight scene (or her) well of outrage to exact choreography is so-so. The film justice, but honestly, Clay is is essentially three big set piece fights as Clay such an impenetrable badass that he never feels kills his way to the top. Even the presence of imperiled. It doesn’t matter how many armed co-stars like Jeremy Irons, Minnie Driver (whose men stand before him or whether he’s armed or talents are totally wasted here), and Phylicia barehanded, they never stand a chance. That lack of danger just sucks the wind out of this story. I Rashad can’t save this middling action film too usually encourage people to support movie that’s worth a stream when it comes out for free if you’re a fanatical and undiscerning action fan. theaters before they disappear altogether, so go— but if you think The Beekeeper is as bad as I did, Anna: I love a guilty pleasure action flick, and remember I warned you.

I was hoping The Beekeeper would fit that bill,

PHOTO COURTESY OF METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURES

A DISH SERVED LUKEWARM: Action star Jason Statham stars as Adam Clay, a former special operator for a secret organization, who exacts revenge for his dead friend and neighbor, in The Beekeeper, screening in local theaters.

Anna: I definitely didn’t buy into the storyline around beekeepers and what their role in the world is, so that’s a hard start. There are a lot of films in this genre that are so deliciously ridiculous you almost can’t help but jump on and enjoy the ride. This one just didn’t do it for me, and instead of having a good time with the ridiculousness going down on-screen, I

mostly found myself rolling my eyes. Let’s hope the rest of the audience had more fun than I did. m Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey from the Sun’s sister paper and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

PHOTO COURTESY OF RKO RADIO PICTURES, INC.

CITIZEN KANE

Film Reviews GOOD GRIEF

What’s it rated? R When? 2023 Where’s it showing? Netflix Dan Levy writes, directs, and stars in this sad, sweet comedy that follows Marc (Levy) as he navigates the year following the unexpected death of his husband, Oliver (Luke Evans). Marc has his two besties, ex-paramour Thomas (Himesh Patel) and chronically flighty Sophie (Ruth Negga), to hold his hand while healing. But things take a turn when Oliver discovers his seemingly ideal marriage may have had some big bumps ahead had Oliver not died.

A mysterious pied-à-terre is discovered in Paris, and under the guise of one last luxe weekend with Oliver’s funds, his two friends travel there. He’s really looking for answers. Who was the man he loved and what other secrets was he keeping?

What do these new revelations mean for Marc’s ability to properly grieve and move on?

Sophie is on a drug- and booze-addled post-breakup binge and Thomas can’t quite understand why he’s always the best friend and never the romantic lead. Sweet and charming with Levy’s patented brand of sarcastic comedy, Good Grief is the

FRIENDS INDEED: With the help of friends Thomas (Himesh Patel, left) and Sophie (Ruth Negga, right), Marc (Daniel Levy) works through the grief of his husband’s death on a trip to Paris, in Good Grief, streaming on Netflix.

kind of film that makes you smile with tears in your eyes. Fans of Levy will eat up this piece—it has him written all over it.

(100 min.)

—Anna

BLAST

What’s it rated? PG When? 1941 Where’s it showing? Bay FROM THE Theatre on Friday, Jan. 19, at 6 p.m. ($10 at my805tix.com) There’s a reason Citizen Kane frequently tops lists for the greatest film ever made. On a technical level, there’s its innovative lighting design, which is further highlighted by filming in black and white even though color was available at the time. Cinematographer Gregg Toland was praised for his inventive camera focusing technique, as was the dramatic editing by Robert Wise. It was star Orson Welles’ debut as director, and his groundbreaking nonlinear storytelling was masterful.

Technical aspects aside, it’s a terrific story that begins with publishing magnet Charles Foster Kane’s death, focusing on his final utterance: “rosebud.” What did it mean? The film, through flashback episodes of his life and in correspondence and interviews, lays bare his spiritual and ethical decline.

You can see the film, which was loosely based on the life of William Randolph Hearst, on the big screen at Morro Bay’s Bay Theatre this Friday, Jan. 19. Watch as investigative reporter Jerry Thompson (William Alland) searches for the meaning

IS THAT YOU, WILLIAM RANDOLPH HEARST? Orson Wells directs himself as publishing tycoon Charles Foster Kane, in the 1941 classic Citizen Kane, screening on Jan. 19, as part of the Bay Theatre’s Salty Cinema series.

of Kane’s last words through archives and interviews with Kane’s business manager, an old friend, and a past lover, and in the process unearths the portrait of a powerful man whose successes appear pyrrhic. (119 min.) m —Glen

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WARM, WELCOMING: Blue Sky Center in New Cuyama regularly welcomes community members to participate in its gardening workshops, held on-site at the nonprofit’s facilities.

The need for seeds New funding helps food access, gardening project grow in Cuyama

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

A

local nonprofit is ringing in the new year—and the following two years—with some new funds to support its unique gardening program.

Near the end of 2023, Blue Sky Center in New Cuyama was awarded a three-year $30,000 grant from the Fund for Santa Barbara, specifically to support the organization’s Cuyama Valley Victory Gardens Project. Additional funding from the Strategic Growth Council allowed the Blue Sky Center to recently allocate $20,000 toward the project’s growth as well.

Since its inception in 2020, the project has installed backyard gardens for 45 households in the Cuyama Valley and hosts bilingual workshops on grape grafting, garlic cultivation, and other gardening topics for community members on a regular basis with an aim to strengthen the region’s food system and promote food sovereignty.

Program leader Sandra Uribe said that the new grant will help Blue Sky Center expand the project and provide gardens for more families than previous budgets have allowed.

“The success of the program has come as a small surprise, as its growth has been driven by word of mouth between families,” Uribe told the Sun over email.

Uribe described the Cuyama Valley Victory Gardens Project as an initiative to bolster food accessibility the area by not only supplying home garden resources to residents, but also offering collaborative peer-topeer classes on how to garden, with community members taking turns teaching one another and “learning from each other, like a big family.”

“There is a lot of talent within the group of participating families, which is why we identify and source educational opportunities from the skills that members have,” Uribe explained.

Participants of the peer-to-peer workshops can also learn how to become garden coordinators themselves at Blue Sky Center if interested.

“Training is conducted through educational workshops held at the Blue Sky Center facilities,” Uribe said. “These meetings occur once a month with flexible morning and afternoon schedules.”

Blue Cuyama

Blue Sky Center is located at 1000 Perkins Road, New Cuyama. Call (661) 413-3005 or visit blueskycenter.org for more info on the nonprofit.

While the garden coordinator training sessions happen monthly, Blue Sky Center’s regular gardening workshops “take place every four to six weeks, more often in the planting seasons,” Uribe said.

“We also have an interpreter if necessary,” Uribe added, noting that funds used to support the Cuyama Valley Victory Gardens Project in turn help the Blue Sky Center “implement bilingual curricula.”

As for future implementation of residential backyard gardens, Uribe said the first step for any family interested in signing up is to simply call the Blue Sky Center or visit the venue in person. Registration includes supplying routine details such as contact info, an address, and the number of household members at the applicant’s residence.

“We then add them to a waiting list because the delivery and installation of the planters take place during the spring,” Uribe said.

Reflecting on the program’s growth since 2020, Uribe described the Cuyama Valley Victory Gardens Project as “a resounding success,” and one that continues to grow.

EATS continued page 22

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GARLIC GATHERING: Sandra Uribe, program leader of the Cuyama Valley Victory Gardens Project, leads a garlic cultivation demo during a community workshop in New Cuyama.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BLUE SKY CENTER

NATURAL CAUSES: Participants of food accessibility and gardening workshops at Blue Sky Center in New Cuyama learn how to cultivate the locally grown goodies of this harvest platter and other plants.

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The project was implemented by the Blue Sky Center in the spring of 2020, Uribe explained, as a community resource “to confront immediate issues of food access in the Cuyama Valley” at the start of the COVID-19 crisis.

Early support from various organizations—including the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation, the Fund for Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara County Food Action Network, and the Santa Barbara Foundation—allowed Blue Sky Center to install raised bed gardens and supply seeds, starter plants, and other gardening materials to community members during the pandemic.

Uribe credited the project’s steady growth over the years as “thanks to all the individuals and organizations that make it possible,” and she said she is excited for Blue Sky Center to use its recent grant funds to help “build gardens with even more families” and “further deepen the program’s impact in 2024.” m Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood still can’t fathom how four years have gone by since 2020.

Send comments to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.

FLOWER POWER: Thanks to initial support from various organizations, Blue Sky Center was able to supply seeds, starter plants, and other gardening materials to community members during the pandemic. The nonprofit’s Cuyama Valley Victory Gardens Project originated in 2020 partly to help combat food access issues in the area, Sandra Uribe (pictured) told the Sun.

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