Sun, January 25, 2024 by New Times Media Group, San Luis Obispo

NOR T HERN S A N TA BA RBA R A COUN T Y ’ S NE WS A ND EN T ER TA INMEN T WEEK LY > JA NUA RY 2 5 - FEBRUA RY 1, 2024 > VOL . 24 NO. 4 8 > W W W. S A N TA M A RIA SUN .COM

AT THE MOVIES

VISIT US ONLINE @santamariasun.com

American Fiction is funny and frustrating [22]

A new Santa Barbara County ordinance leads some poultry hobbyists to crow foul [8] BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

NEWS

County pushes back on a candidate’s statements [4]

ARTS

Local photog captures Channel Islands [18]

EATS

Restaurant Month and a cocktail contest [24]

Contents

JANUARY 25 - FEBRUARY 1, 2024 VOL. 24 NO. 48

oise complaints about crowing and concerns over cockfighting led the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors to pass a new ordinance that limits the number of roosters allowed on properties. But the regulations mean that certain poultry hobbyists may no longer be able to use their properties to breed fowl for shows, something one supervisor called a concerning impact. Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor speaks with impacted residents and supervisors about the rooster rules and what they mean [6]. This week, you can also read about what the county has to say about one supervisorial candidate’s assertion about future budget deficits [4], one local artist’s book about the Channel Islands [20], and what to enjoy during Santa Maria Valley Restaurant Month [24]. Camillia Lanham editor

DreamHome

YOUR

Cover photo from Adobe Stock > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

NEWS

AWA I TS

WESTERN VILL AGE SHOPPING CENTER

805-347-1121 LIC. 668152

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

Carpet & Floor

ARTS

Arts Briefs ...............................................................................20

MOVIES

Reviews .................................................................................... 22

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

NO CROWING: Noise complaints spurred a new county ordinance regulating the number of roosters allowed on agriculturally zoned properties.

Commentary ...........................................................................10 Web Poll ....................................................................................10 Mayfield.....................................................................................10 Canary .........................................................................................11

CLASSIFIEDS, HOME, AND REAL ESTATE ....................................................26

EVENTS CALENDAR

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

000 SINCE 2

HELP SU PPORT OU R MISSION

Informative, accurate, and independent journalism takes time and costs money. Help us keep our community aware and connected by donating today. www.santamariasun.com

ALEX FERREL

PAINTING

Lic. #874418

Every January I remind you the importance of inspecting your house or business. Yearly maintenance will extend the life of your largest possessions. Whether it be replacing the caulk, fascia, starter board or even a simple power wash will save you money. Some of these items can be done by you, therefore saving you more money. Call us for advice, it’s always free.

(805) 2 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

Town Painters 598-4052 “Small Big Time Quality!”

Welcoming Dr. Ryan Leachman DO, MBA

n’t waste a drop!

Don’t waste a drop! et’s save together. Let’s save together.

No pierdas ni una gota! ¡No pierdas ni una gota! Ahorremos juntos. Ahorremos juntos.

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

WE TAKE PRIDE IN CARING

ORCUTT

for both the physical and emotional needs of your child.

PROVIDING FUEL & SERVICE TO ORCUTT FOR OVER 60 YEARS

Call to schedule your child’s well exam today.

SMOG CHECKS PASS OR DON’T PAY

Old & New Vehicles DRIVE-UPS WELCOME

OIL CHANGES ASK FOR DETAILS

1000 OFF

SMOG CHECK

Pass or Don’t Pay! Drive Ups Welcome!

Regular Price $59.00 Appointments 805-937-5340

David Ikola, M.D.

Shane Rostermundt, D.O.

Joseph Nunez, M.D.

Dr. Michele Kielty, D.O.

Plus $8.25 Certificate + $1.50 Transfer fee +$1.00 OPUS fee. ’95 & Older $99.00 / ’96-’99 $89.00. Vans & Motorhomes $99.00 Coupons may not be combined with any other offer. Expires 2/29/24

805-937-5340 100 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt

WWW.ORCUTT76.COM

Lynn Peltier, C.P.N.P.

1430 E. Main St. Santa Maria, CA

Geronna Leonards, N.P.

www.pmgsm.com

805-922-3548

Jessica Prather, C.N.P.

Monday – Saturday

www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 3

News

➤ Crowing concerns [6]

January 25 - February 1, 2024

➤ Spotlight [8] FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FRANK TROISE CAMPAIGN

POLITICAL WATCH • U.S. Reps. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) and Val Hoyle (D-Oregon) recently introduced comprehensive housing legislation to implement a range of housing and homelessness policy solutions to make affordable housing more accessible for working families across the United States and combat the increase in the number of children and families experiencing homelessness, according to a Jan. 17 statement from Carbajal’s office. The Decent, Affordable, Safe Housing for All (DASH) Act, which is led by U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) in the Senate, addresses the lack of affordable quality housing through policies like creating a new down payment tax credit for first-time homebuyers, expanding and improving housing tax credits, incentivizing the construction of more affordable housing, and supporting families with children who are at risk of becoming homeless by improving services and access to housing vouchers. “I hear from my Central Coast constituents every single day about their concerns with the rising costs of housing and the lack of affordable options for them to live and raise a family. With a problem as big as our nation’s housing crisis, we need a big solution— and that’s why I’m proud to co-lead the DASH Act in Congress,” Carbajal said in the statement. “From strengthening tax credits for low-income and middleclass households, to helping those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and much more—our legislation will help protect millions from losing their homes and help millions more put a roof over their head without breaking the bank.” • U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) led 24 of his Senate colleagues in calling on the Senate Appropriations Committee to restore funding for the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) for fiscal year 2024. In 2021, Congress appropriated $1.1 billion to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration on Children and Families to establish a temporary low-income water assistance program to help pay for water and wastewater bills during the COVID-19 pandemic. After helping more than 1.1 million households across the country maintain or restore water service and supporting 13,000 water and wastewater systems in low-income, tribal, rural, and urban communities, funding for the program expired at the end of fiscal year 2023, ending a lifeline for families in need across the country. More than 150 organizations— including water associations, environmental and public interest organizations, consumer advocates, and labor unions—wrote a similar letter urging Congress to provide fiscal year 2024 funding for LIHWAP. “Water and sewer bills are rising more than twice as quickly as inflation and increasing faster than energy bills, medical expenses, and household incomes,” the senators wrote in their letter. “The need for low-income household water assistance is just as important to public health and economic development as other basic needs such as home energy and nutrition, which have benefitted from federal support for decades.” • Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that California has created 15,000 housing units as part of Homekey, an effort launched in 2019 to rapidly house individuals experiencing homelessness, according to a Jan. 18 statement from Newsom’s office. An estimated 163,260 individuals will be assisted with housing throughout the course of this program. “Homekey is a national model for rapidly creating affordable housing for Californians in need. In a few short years, this initiative has created more than 15,000 homes to help over 163,000 people. Homekey demonstrates what is possible when people think outside the box and refuse to accept the status quo,” Newsom said in the statement. Newsom also announced the latest awardees to receive grant funding from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD)—including Oakland, San Bernardino, Santa Cruz, and San Luis Obispo, and the counties of Lassen and Marin. This funding will support six projects in total at a cost of nearly $95.6 million and will create 396 affordable homes. “Over a three-year period, Homekey has funded projects that will provide housing security to more than 163,000 Californians over the decades to come,” HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez said in the statement. “This program has allowed jurisdictions to get creative with adaptive reuse of existing spaces and with providing a full array of services that help make homelessness rare, one time, and non-recurrent.” m

SEEING ECONOMIC IMPROVEMENT: While Santa Barbara County expects to fill any shortfalls with remaining general fund dollars for the next two fiscal years, 3rd District supervisor candidate Frank Troise is calling for the county to use his budget proposal as a roadmap to generate more revenue that could benefit various county agencies.

County forecasts balanced budget, despite 3rd District supervisor candidate’s deficit concerns

Santa Barbara County refuted allegations from 3rd District supervisor candidate Frank Troise that the county would be facing a $15 million to $20 million deficit for the next three to four years. Kelsey Gerckens Buttitta, Santa Barbara County’s public information officer, told the Sun that the county is forecasting a balanced budget for its upcoming cycle, with an estimated $381.5 million in total general fund discretionary revenue for fiscal year 2024-25, according to county documents. “The board has been prudent in setting aside money in recent years to avoid any deficits in the coming years,” Gerckens Buttitta said in an email. “Forecast projects, presented to the board in December, show that revenue growth is not enough to offset increased costs in coming years, but prior year set-asides due to the board’s fiscal prudence and careful planning will be able to cover this for the coming two fiscal years.” With revenue growth lower than what the county anticipated, an estimated $10.74 million in unallocated ongoing general fund reserves will be released to balance the shortfalls in the next two years, she said. “The county is continuing to find efficiencies to keep the budget balanced in years three to five and is focused on maintaining existing services as opposed to expansions,” Gerckens Buttitta said. According to county staff’s five-year forecast, the county projects allocating an additional $7.2 million in fiscal year 2024-25 and $1.71 million in fiscal year 2025-26. By the 2026-27 cycle, the county anticipates a $2.57 million deficit, followed by a $7.69 million deficit in 2027-28, and $950,000 deficit in 2028-29. “The board’s strategy of setting aside ongoing discretionary revenue growth in prior years is a key reason why the five-year forecast projects balanced budgets [for] the next two fiscal years,” Gerckens Buttitta said. “The county also maintains numerous one-time reserves for various purposes, including a rainy day fund, the strategic reserve, currently funded at $44 million, per budget policy.”

4 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

Budget discussions will begin with workshops in April, followed by hearings and the budget’s adoption in June. In a follow-up interview, Troise told the Sun that the shortfalls and the focus on maintaining existing services would impact the Sheriff’s Office, Public Health, Behavioral Wellness, and other county agencies because they wouldn’t be able to hire additional staff and expand their reach. “The county’s managed expectations that there will be revenue shortfalls for the next three to four years. My budget proposal comes in to generate that revenue. It’s almost as if you went and asked everyone, ‘What do you need?’” Troise said. “By adding funding, they would fill the needs and fully fund staff, filling those gaps, and we can fully fund these departments with these changes.” Troise’s budget proposal includes five initiatives: adding a Lompoc tech campus, a Lompoc Space base tourism opportunity, investing in more child care services, greater Planning and Development investments, and a new climate framework that he anticipates will generate between $240 million to $360 million total. He added that these items are all actionable for the Board of Supervisors and it would take six to 12 months to implement. “Politics has gotten in the way of pragmatism, and it’s a shame,” Troise said. “We’re throwing the opportunity to help the county under the bus because of politics.” The 3rd District supervisor candidate said that he would drop out of the race if either fellow candidate and Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne or incumbent Joan Hartmann agreed to this budget proposal. As of Jan. 22, there had been some discussion but no agreement had been reached. —Taylor O’Connor

Solvang discusses potential wastewater connection with Los Olivos

Two neighboring communities in the Santa Ynez Valley are looking into possibly aligning their wastewater lines, while some locals worry the project would lure unrelated developers to

stream in with it. In early January, the city of Solvang received a request from the Los Olivos Community Services District (LOCSD) to consider exploring the potential impacts of allowing Los Olivos to connect with Solvang’s wastewater treatment plant, rather than construct its own. Solvang’s city staff sought feedback about the proposal—to research the feasibility of Los Olivos placing a new wastewater line along Alamo Pintado Road to link with Solvang’s existing infrastructure—from the City Council during its Jan. 22 meeting. City Manager Randy Murphy said “there may be some level of public concern,” as an alignment “may be perceived as encouraging development in that area.” “However, that can be mitigated by limiting the amount of wastewater they would be allowed to produce,” Murphy said. Dennis Beebe, a former board member of the Santa Ynez River Water Conservation District, was the sole speaker during public comment and criticized the alignment proposal as inconsistent with the Santa Ynez Valley Community Plan. “It explicitly barred any consideration of putting a sewage line between Los Olivos and Solvang because of the threat of development,” Beebe said before referencing Field of Dreams. “The worry is that you’ll have a developmental strip between Los Olivos and Solvang. As soon as you build it, the worry is they will come.” Beebe also described Murphy’s comment on mitigating the amount of Los Olivos’ wastewater produced as “kind of cavalier.” Before the City Council’s deliberations, Guy Savage, general manager of the LOCSD, clarified that the board is still “exploring our own wastewater treatment plant,” and isn’t asking Solvang to commit to anything yet. Savage added that if the alignment project moved forward someday, the LOCSD would fund it. “We’d be getting loans, doing whatever we’d need to do to be able to connect,” Savage said. “Let me be really clear, this is not a commitment on your part.” According to Solvang’s staff report, initial discussions between staff and Carollo Engineers, a water engineering consulting form, determined that Solvang’s wastewater treatment plant has “plenty of capacity for LOCSD’s effluent.” The report also states that additional research is needed to determine if the alignment between Los Olivos and Solvang would “create any complications to compliance” with Solvang’s current waste discharge protocols. In its letter to the city of Solvang, the LOCSD requested that Solvang staff analyze its proposal as a potential “win-win,” while suggesting that Solvang “could receive additional revenues to help offset costs for wastewater treatment and related infrastructure without increasing its plant size.” With a 5-0 vote, the Solvang City Council unanimously agreed to direct staff to investigate the potential alignment. “I have no problem exploring anything, as long as it doesn’t cost anything, or much,” Councilmember Robert Clarke said, while supporting the directive for staff to find out whether an alignment would “ultimately benefit the city of Solvang and the residents of Solvang.” —Caleb Wiseblood

Santa Ynez high school district superintendent announces departure

The Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District has two leadership positions to fill after Superintendent Andrew Schwab announced that he will be leaving the district in March. The high school is still searching for a permanent replacement for principal. “The opportunity presented itself to lead

NEWS continued page 5

News the school—who left at the end of the 2022-23 school year after being in the position for one a 2,300-student unified K-12 district in the year because community members asserted Central Valley and be closer to my wife’s family their political views on the school, which he said in Merced,” Schwab told the Sun via email. “The made it too difficult for him to do his work. He board is in the process of scheduling a meeting ultimately resigned after receiving pushback to discuss next steps for the superintendent from adults for allowing students to paint a transition.” crosswalk with a rainbow pattern for an antiA new interim principal, Andrew Alvidrez, bullying and inclusion week at school. was hired to finish the school year after Mitch “No superintendent or principal worth their Torina finished out his term as interim principal pay would want to come here,” Leslie Ooms in December. said in a post in the Santa Ynez High School “Andrew (Andy) Alvidrez is a retired school administrator with over 30 years of service Administration/School Board Transparency dedicated to helping provide a quality education Project—a public Facebook group for the for all students,” Schwab said in an email that community to discuss all things school-district went out to staff. “His collaborative leadership related. “This community has become toxic style has helped build teams of dedicated thanks to a minority who have an agenda to run professionals who remained focused on learning.” the school off the rails of education.” Alvidrez taught history, economics, and The search for a permanent replacement physical education at the high school and is “on hold for the moment,” Schwab said, middle school levels and started his 24-year pending the board meeting to discuss both the administrative career as a high school dean in a principal and the superintendent transition. He school with more than 3,400 students, Schwab added that he expects more information will be said in the email. He worked as a principal in available after that meeting, which had yet to be the East Whittier School District, based in scheduled as of Jan. 23. Fullerton, and as a middle school principal in Teri Fredericks Harmon, a fellow member of both the Whittier City School District and El the transparency project Facebook group, wrote Rancho Unified School District in Pico Rivera— that it would take more than two new hires to which is east of Los Angeles. fix the issues facing the district. In the post, she “The high school is fortunate to have such an added that the community needs to step up to experienced administrator on board to finish out the school year,” Schwab told the Sun in an email. vote out board members who “don’t have the Alvidrez will be Santa Ynez Valley Union High students’ best interest at heart” and get back to the basics of the school’s purpose. School’s sixth principal in a little more than five “Supporting all [who] want years—with four people leaving to make a positive difference— permanent positions and two the students and the interim principals filling in this community deserve no less— Send any news school year while the district and it can be done,” Fredericks or story tips to searches for a replacement. Harmon said. m news@santamariasun.com. Michael Niehoff was the last full-time principal at —Taylor O’Connor

NEWS from page 4

Act now!

A True Classic never goes out of style

Natural Mined Diamonds or Natural Mined Colored Gemstones or Lab Grown Gemstones. It’s your choice... Say “Be My Valentine” like you really mean it.

TEACHERS WANTED. AMAZING REWARDS.

Expert Repairs - Custom Design - Work Guaranteed Open Tues–Sat 10am–4pm · Closed Sundays & Mondays Store Closed Jan. 30th - Feb. 3rd 225 E. Main St., Santa Maria

805-928-4108

www.ﬁschersjewelry.verizon.net Your Hometown Jeweler Celebrating 42 Years!

Another great CommUnify program.

APPLY NOW 805-964-8857 CommUnifySB.org

www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 5 Santa Maria Sun - Ad 02

GO TO OUR WEBSITE & CLICK ON

News

COVER

FREE TICKETS! Crowing concerns

FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF KAT KIRSCH

Santa Barbara County residents speak out about a new ordinance limiting the number of roosters on properties BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

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

SLO SYMPHONY CLASSICS III A GRAND OCCASION Saturday, February 3 • 7:30pm Performing Arts Center, SLO

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

SLO SYMPHONY CLASSICS IV BARTOK AND BEETHOVEN Saturday, March 2 • 7:30pm Performing Arts Center, SLO

NewTimesSLO.com

duardo Ramos began raising chickens at his Cebada Canyon home when he bought the property a little more than a year ago, Ramos told the Sun. “I did extensive research before acquiring the property and saw that this is the right place to keep my fowl because of zoning,” he said. “Then I started hearing rumors saying that I fight roosters here. I don’t. … I haven’t been convicted of anything. I don’t know why they persist on that without any evidence whatsoever.” Cebada Canyon is an unincorporated community that sits in Santa Barbara County’s 3rd District 4 miles east of Lompoc. The neighborhood itself is agriculturally zoned, allowing for some ag activities with limits set in county code. Ramos has about 140 birds on his property— with some roosters—which he said he uses for breeding and poultry shows; however, the noise and activity sparked complaints from his neighbors, and he later received a notice of violation for having too many birds on his property. “The county told me, ‘You are going to have to get a minor conditional use permit or you will have to get rid of them,” Ramos said. “I’m not going to comply with a minor conditional use permit; these fowl are exclusively for my hobbies. They are for my own personal use.” Current county code requires fowl keeping to be limited to “reasonable family use only,” the Planning and Development Department told the Sun. In order to provide specific guidelines and address rooster-related concerns, the county recently created a new rooster ordinance to limit the number of roosters on each property based on parcel size—following examples set by Monterey, Ventura, and Los Angeles, which established similar ordinances to address noise and prevent cockfighting. The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors approved the new rules 4-1 on Jan. 16, with 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson dissenting. They limit parcels with less than 1 acre to one rooster; two roosters are now allowed on properties between 1 and 5 acres; and five roosters are allowed on properties with more than 5 acres, according to county documents. The ordinance also establishes living and care standards for rooster keeping and requires a permit for keeping more roosters than the limit—with exemptions for large poultry ranching, local 4-H chapter members, educational poultry projects, or other “legitimate” agricultural activities. While neighbors and animal activists celebrated the regulations and the possibility for quieter days and safer animal conditions, Ramos and other ag community members are concerned about losing the ability to practice their hobbies and limiting agricultural activities in the county. Ramos said he’s working with a lawyer who’s looking through state and federal agricultural laws, with plans to file a lawsuit against the county for a violation of the right to farm. “I want to be able to keep the fowl that I have right now,” Ramos said. “We’re not cockfighters; we’re backyard breeders, and I want the county to acknowledge that. If someone [else] does something wrong, why are we getting punished for them?” Cebada Canyon residents flocked to the Jan. 16 meeting to speak during public comment, and several residents submitted public comment letters supporting the ordinance. “I never thought I would be dealing with a

6 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

Act now!

Send any news or story tips to news@santamariasun.com. COCK-A-DOODLE-DON’T: While some residents supported Santa Barbara County’s new rooster ordinance, which the Board of Supervisors approved 4-1 at a recent meeting, others are concerned about how it will affect their hobbies or poultry operations.

complaint of over 100 roosters being housed on individual properties,” one resident wrote. Their name was redacted for fear of retribution. “This only spells out one thing, cockfighting. To me this is right up there with dog fighting, raising an animal for one specific reason, to fight; cruelty to the max.” There are three spots in the canyon with more than 100 birds, which the resident said is too many for family consumption of eggs and chickens. Individuals housing roosters changed their story to say that they are raising birds for poultry shows, the resident alleged. “If this is the case, let’s see the 4-H show pictures. All parents proudly display pictures of their kids at 4-H with their families, be it a goat, pig, cow, or a chicken,” the letter said. “These roosters are not for breeding or showing. People don’t usually like roosters around because they can over-breed a hen and end up killing her. People do not buy eggs for consumption that are fertile.” Another Cebada Canyon resident, whose name was also redacted from their public comment letter, said that their closest neighbor started housing multiple roosters and the constant noise affected their day-to-day life. While they have spent a lot of money to fix up their property to help maintain or improve its value to possibly sell their home, the resident said that they worry they’ve wasted their money after hearing that several neighbors had issues selling their homes due to neighboring rooster farms. Noise concerns are required to be disclosed when selling a house. “I know if we wanted to sell our home, it would be a very hard sell, as anyone who came out to see the place would not be able to ignore the constant crowing of roosters,” they said. Third District Supervisor Joan Hartmann told the Sun via email that complaints in her district— which now includes Cebada Canyon but used to oversee other rooster-impacted areas like Casmalia and Tepusquet before redistricting—sparked the conversations about the ordinance. “Noise complaints consistently rank among the top issues brought to my office, affecting the quiet enjoyment of homes for many residents,” Hartmann said. “This ordinance aims to provide

a clearer framework by defining the number of roosters allowed based on parcel size and establishing a permit process for legitimate poultry operations overseen by our animal control officer. It seeks to strike a balance.” She added that she anticipates that this ordinance will lead to a reduction of roosters in residential neighborhoods, which “should contribute to greater harmony among neighbors.” “Additionally, the ordinance introduces specific standards for rooster housing and spacing, ultimately enhancing the welfare of these birds and reducing potential agitation caused by overcrowded conditions,” Hartmann said. “Our goal is to create a more peaceful and neighborly environment while ensuring humane treatment for poultry operations that comply with the new regulations.” Since this was an ordinance through the Department of Public Health and not Planning and Development, the changes impact all parcels in the unincorporated areas of the county, including ag-zoned land, 4th District Supervisor Nelson told the Sun. “I did have some concerns because basically we’re banning [rooster keeping] on ag grounds,” he said. “If you can’t do it on ag property, where can you do it?” Nelson added that he felt the county didn’t have all the information needed since individuals involved in poultry keeping or hobbyists involved in poultry shows weren’t a part of the initial conversations with the county’s Agriculture Advisory Committee and couldn’t provide input on the ordinance. He wanted to pass the ordinance back to the committee so it could conduct further research. “Ninety percent of this is about noise and, again, when you live in ag zoning, you’re going to have animal noises. I don’t know if we want the Board of Supervisors deciding what’s too loud and what’s not,” he said. “That’s why we have residential zoning, so you reduce conflicts. … It’s concerning when we start to use urban criteria on ag properties.” m Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.

2-1-1 Community Day Celebration!

News Wire

A free resource fair sponsored by CommUnify’s Energy Services Program

Health and human resources, rafﬂe prizes, food, kid activities, haircuts, & so much more!

Saturday February 10, 2024 Minami Community Center - 600 W Enos Dr, Santa Maria

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Santa Maria Sun News Wire newsletter and get your current local news FREE every Thursday in your inbox

Select the SIGNUP button at the top right of our homepage at santamariasun.com

3546 SKY 3546 SKY STUD STUD SANTA SANTA 805-295 805-295

FIRST R F I RSKYWA ST R 3546

Now Offering Strength Classes

FF RR F RF EREE

3546 SKYW STUDIO 3 STUDIO SANTA MAR SANTA M 805-295-41 805-295-

FIRST RIDE I

FIRST RID SAFE. STRONG. 3546 CYCLE & STRENGTH CYCLE & STRENGTH SKY VALUED. STUD

SANTA First Class FREE 805-295 SC

CYCLE & STRENGTH CYCLE & STRENGTH CYCLE & STRENGTH CYCLE & STRENGTH

SC D D AP Scan and AP

SCAN TH F I RSCAN ST R DOWN DO APPAPP FROF

download the Glofox app

3546 Skyway Studio 3, Santa Maria CYCLE & Dr., STRENGTH (805) 295-4155

www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 7

SC D AP

News

SPOTLIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF WAVECOMM SANTA BARBARA MARKETING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

HELPING FIRST RESPONDERS: One805’s advisory council is made up of Santa Barbara County first responders and helps guide the nonprofit in allocating funds raised through events and donations.

‘Life-changing’ services One805 reflects on funding year-round counseling services for firefighters, new equipment purchases for first responders BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

to firefighters, their children, and spouses, he said. In combination with One805’s promised ne805 launched as a nonprofit supporting contributions, the wellness program will be Santa Barbara County first responders after the 2017-18 Thomas Fire and 2018 Montecito funded three years in advance. “After running the program for a year, people mudslides. started sending letters saying, ‘You saved my life. “First responders are an essential part of The mental wellness program saved my life,’” our community, and part of our mission is to Weston-Smith said. “It was an extraordinary encourage people to understand that they need us to appreciate them and help them, and that it’s thing when that dawns on you: that what you’re not an easy job to do,” One805 co-founder and doing is preventative and helping firefighters and President Richard Weston-Smith said. “We just first responders get back on their feet, save their take them for granted and expect them to come marriages, and prevent suicides.” running when we dial 911 and be there.” It’s “amazingly rewarding” to provide mental One805 hosts events that raise funds to wellness services and to see how it changes purchase new equipment for first responders people’s lives for the better, he added. across the county—including helping North “The thing about first responders is we don’t County agencies purchase drones, updated know when we’re going to need them, but what crime lab equipment, language courses, and new we do know is every single one of us is going to thermal imaging equipment, he said. dial 911 at some point,” Weston-Smith said. “We “We invite the chiefs to submit grant requests want them to be the most prepared, most robust because there are so many things that they first responders, and I could say that’s true for can’t get in their budget that they need. The everyone in Santa Barbara County.” budgeting process for fire agencies is so incredibly One805 recently completed its 2023 grants cumbersome and slow,” Weston-Smith said. and is identifying unmet needs for 2024. There “They’ll apply for things three years in a row and will be a spring event and a summer concert, but never get it. That’s where we step in, and they can no dates have been set as of Jan. 10. Visit one805. come to us for certain pieces of equipment or org for more information on events and volunteer safety kits.” and donation opportunities. In 2022, the nonprofit began funding mental health services for firefighters after the previous Highlights backer announced it was ceasing support. • Marian Regional Medical Center celebrated “We instantly realized this was a major a groundbreaking ceremony on Jan. 19 to problem because our first responders deal with commence a series of building and remodeling traumatic events on a daily basis. The suicide projects that will benefit the Santa Maria area rate is significantly higher than the rest of the through the addition of a new hospice center— population,” Weston-Smith said. “We jumped in which would be the first dedicated hospice and took on the responsibility; we didn’t know center in the community—and a multiplex of how we were going to pay for it.” low-income senior housing. These projects are in In the first month, One805 was “scraping MUSIC collaboration with Sisters of St. Francis of Penance together” funds to try and cover the 24/7 yearand Christian Charity, NKT Commercial, and round services for the firefighters and their People’s Self-Help Housing. FLAVOR/EATS families. Entering into counseling services after • Santa Ynez Valley (SYV) Pride is hosting its solely providing funding for new equipment was Love Above All Ball at Vega Vineyard and Farm on a “whole new level of responsibility,” he said. INFO Feb. 17 from 5 to 9 p.m. The evening will have hors “We promised we would give $20,000 to help d’oeuvres by chef Chris Rossi; a selection of wine, buy this drone or piece of equipment, but you beer, and non-alcoholic beverages; dancing with can’t say that with a mental wellness program; CALENDAR DJ Darla Bea; psychic love readings for singles and it has to be fully funded every month,” Westoncouples with Alexis Donkin; and a silent auction Smith said. “We suddenly found ourselves in the table. SYV Pride is a local nonprofit committed to serious business of paying for a mental wellness OPINION creating a safe, supportive, and empowering home program first responders were depending on.” for the LGBTQ-plus community in the Santa Last year, Direct Relief, a disaster relief NEWS Ynez Valley; this event will help the organization nonprofit, contributed $150,000 toward the program, and One805 also host its 2024 Pride parade and received $100,000 from festival and support its youth STROKES Yardi Systems, a Goletascholarship program. m based software company, to Send business and Reach Staff Writer Taylor help fund mental wellness nonprofit information to ARTS O’Connor at toconnor@ services—which provide 24/7, spotlight@santamariasun.com. santamariasun.com. year-round counseling services

Now Hiring Physicians

Grow your career, and stay for the lifestyle.

It’s not just a job, it’s a calling. The mission of Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics is to provide high quality comprehensive, affordable healthcare to all people, regardless of their ability to pay, in an environment that fosters respect, compassion, and dignity.

We offer generous salaries and excellent benefits including: • Sign on incentives • Reoccurring productivity incentives • Medical, dental and vision PPO plans • Full time, 30 - 40 hours per week • Vacation, sick time and 10 paid holidays per year • 403(b) and 457(b) retirement plans • Opportunity for HRSA loan repayment • HPSA score – 18 Visit sbclinics.org or contact Rosalind.Gilbert@sbclinics.org or call 805.617.7857

8 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

Promote!

TICKET WITH US!

• FREE local ticketing service • FREE marketing promotion from New Times and Sun • Local customer service • Support local journalism

My805Tix.com Can I crash on your couch for awhile? Ask us about our Foster Program

Adoptable Pets of the Week

Rudy

FOSTER • SPONSOR • VOLUNTEER • DONATE

Age: 5 years,

Anyone can help!

5 months Breed: Terrier mix Sex: Male Weight: 49 lbs. Campus: Santa Barbara

Star

Age: 2 years, 2 months

Breed: Domestic

Shorthair

Newly rescued pups are available for adoption. They are all black, with touches of white here and there; very gentle and loving, and are housetrained. Cinder, Jade, Amber, and Flint (2 boys, 2 girls) are listed on our website for more information.

Sex: Female Weight: 10 lbs. Campus: Santa Barbara

All animals are health checked, spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

Don’t wait - they will go quickly! 1687 West Stowell Road (Santa Maria)

(805) 964-4777 • sbhumane.org PO Box 2952, Orcutt, CA 93457

Email: centralcoastSPCA@yahoo.com

centralcoastspca.org

Adoption Center Hours are:

Monday-Thursday: by appointment only

Your Local Pharmacy and Medical Equipment Supply Source. that offers e pharmacy c i v r e s Full ment and medications al equip c i d e m

AD PROVIDED BY

JDX PHARMACY

(805) 937-1766

This ad provided by

(805) 878-0807 The Maxim in Real Estate

(805) 878-0807

1504 S. Broadway, Santa Maria Mon-Fri 9am – 6pm · Sat 9am – 1pm (805) 922-1747 · www.healthmart.com www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 9

Opinion ONLINE POLL

How do you feel about Buellton getting an official, city-managed Instagram account?

70% I don’t care about which platform—just keep me informed on Pea Soup Andersen’s. 30% It’s a mistake and a waste of city staff’s hours. 0% It’s about time. What took so long? 0% I wish Buellton would get a TikTok account instead. 10 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

Northern Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly 801 S Broadway Suite 3 Santa Maria, CA 93454 EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING | 805-347-1968 E-MAIL | mail@santamariasun.com WEB | www.santamariasun.com FOUNDER | Steve Moss 1948-2005 EDITORIAL EDITOR | Camillia Lanham ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Andrea Rooks STAFF WRITERS | Taylor O’Connor ARTS EDITOR | Caleb Wiseblood STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER | Jayson Mellom ART DIRECTOR | Alex Zuniga EDITORIAL DESIGNERS | Leni Litonjua, Taylor Saugstad CONTRIBUTORS | Glen Starkey, Anna Starkey, Ross Mayfield ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE | Kimberly Rosa ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES | Katy Gray, Lee Ann Vermeulen, Andrea McVay, Kristen LaGrange PRODUCTION ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER | Mary Grace Flaus GRAPHIC DESIGNERS | Eva Lipson, Ellen Fukumoto Danielle Ponce Business Cindy Rucker CIRCULATION | Jim Chaney, Michael Ferrell, Margo Baldives, Simon Lopez PUBLISHERS | Bob Rucker, Alex Zuniga OFFICE ASSISTANT / ACCOUNT MANAGER | Kristen LaGrange MARKETING & PROMOTIONS COORDINATOR | Michael Gould SUBMITTING LETTERS WRITE | Mail your letter to Sun Letters, 801 S Broadway Suite 3, Santa Maria, CA 93454. Include your name, address, and phone number. FAX | (805) 546-8641 E-MAIL | mail@santamariasun.com, letters@santamariasun.com

COMMENTARY

➤ Canary [11]

Boom!

provision of the municipal code. However, to date the use of dangerous fireworks has increased to a several days a week occurrence, year-round in some neighborhoods. The nonprofit groups that obtain permits to sell Lompoc City Council ignites the fireworks want a refund or reduction of the fees they pay. The staff report says, “The average discussion about ‘safe and annual costs incurred by the enforcement task sane’ fireworks program force during 2022-23 was $5,516. The balance of the Enforcement Task Force account at the end of finances and enforcement the 2023 calendar year, which is currently being held in trust by the city, is $60,871. Of that total, BY RON FINK n Jan. 16 the Lompoc City Council reviewed $47,434 is attributable to booth fees and $13,437 to the 4 percent surcharge.” a report on the safe and sane fireworks Discharging aerial and explosive fireworks is program, specifically the “Finances and a public nuisance, and the legalizing of safe and Options for use of Surplus Fireworks Program sane fireworks seemed to empower some people Funds.” to think that any type of firework was allowed. In order to acquire a permit to sell safe and sane fireworks in Lompoc, the applicant must pay Storage of these dangerous explosives presents an unknown hazard to first responders if a fire a 4 percent surcharge, and according to the staff occurs. report it “requires the wholesaler to pay the city Councilman Jeremy Ball noted that “fireworks for that distributor’s pro rata share of a $10,000 are an issue in every city”; he was right. Then he contribution to fireworks task force costs inclusive asked the police chief “we have part of our process of administrative, regulatory, and enforcement here a fee associated with enforcement, but what oversight incurred during the period that are we getting for that investment?” fireworks may be sold by the applicable permit The police chief indicated that a review of past and which are not reimbursed by the surcharge.” enforcement efforts has established that it has Some of the funds were earmarked to provide been sporadic and ineffective at best because it a public fireworks display; however, the licensed relied on first-person witnessing of the specific fireworks exhibition companies have surveyed individual who was violating the ordinance, the city and explained in public meetings that which is next to impossible in most situations. there are no locations in the city limits that meet Then he said, last year “there were 440 calls for the safety parameters required to put on such a fireworks related” incidents, and officers were display. So the city has been providing a free, very only able to issue “one or two tickets.” well attended gathering at Ryon Park using fees Some have suggested using a Police collected to celebrate the day. MUSICto spot violators; however, Department drone When the so-called safe and sane fireworks the chief pointed out that those drones cost ordinance was sold to the public back in 2013 it more than $15,000, and he was unwilling to risk FLAVOR/EATS included the following provision in the Lompoc “fireworks taking it out of the sky.” Municipal Code 8.28.120 G: “It shall be unlawful That is a legitimate concern, and as a taxpayer I for any person to: possess, store, sell, display, appreciate his concern. INFO ignite, discharge, project, or otherwise fire or Then Ball asked, “Should we keep this fee?” make use of dangerous fireworks anywhere in The chief replied that realistically he doesn’t see a the city at any time, except in accordance with a time when he would have enough staff to provide CALENDAR license issued by the state fire effective enforcement. marshal for a city-permitted Councilwoman Gilda OPINION fireworks display.” Cordova noted that “removing One of the uses for the or reducing the fee is not the Send us your revenue collected from the sale answer because there is an views and opinion to NEWS of safe and sane fireworks was impact on the city” and that it letters@santamariasun.com. to fund enforcement of this “wasn’t people who purchased

TO ADVERTISE DISPLAY ADS | Rates and special discounts are available. Call our ad department at (805) 347-1968. CLASSIFIEDS | Call (805) 546-8208, Ext. 211. Visa and MasterCard accepted. ONLINE Visit the Sun web site at www.santamariasun.com. Our site was developed and designed by Foundation, a website development company (www.publishwithfoundation.com). The Sun is published every Thursday for your enjoyment. One copy of each issue is available free to Northern Santa Barbara County residents and visitors. Subscriptions to the Sun are $156 per year. The entire contents of the Sun are copyrighted by the Sun and cannot be reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher. Because a product or service is advertised in the Sun does not mean that we endorse its use. We hope readers will use their own good judgement in choosing products most beneficial to their well-being. We welcome submissions. Please accompany them with a selfaddressed, stamped envelope. All letters to the editor become the property of the Sun. © 2024 Sun



Speak up!

STROKES

ARTS

MAYFIELD

safe and sane fireworks that were causing the problem.” But she also noted that if the council banned safe and sane, the problem with illegal fireworks would still exist. Mayor Jenelle Osborne noted that “we all hear it constantly about enforcement; we desperately need to figure out a model to respond to the demand almost year-around.” She doesn’t want to “reduce the enforcement funding.” The council unanimously agreed to lower some of the event fees to reflect actual event costs of putting on a program at Ryon Park and retain the enforcement fee charged to nonprofits and directed staff to come back with a workable enforcement plan. We’ll have to see what the public safety and code enforcement team comes up with to address this booming nuisance. m Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.

LETTERS Affordable housing is a foundation for strong communities

A crucial concern that directly impacts our citizens’ well-being lies in the heart of our community: affordable housing. As the CEO of the SLO County Housing Trust Fund, a nonprofit affordable housing revolving loan fund, I want to share the significance of this challenge and advocate for its role in shaping our community’s future. Here’s why affordable housing is so important: • Stability and dignity: Affordable housing provides a stable foundation for families, offering them a sanctuary to put down roots and build a life. It ensures that hardworking individuals have a place to call home, fostering a sense of dignity and security that is fundamental to personal and community well-being. • Economic vitality: Affordable housing availability is directly linked to economic prosperity. It attracts a diverse workforce, ensuring that businesses in our community have access to a talent pool that can drive innovation and growth. When employees don’t have to navigate the challenges of unaffordable housing, they can focus more on their work, contributing to the overall economic vitality of the region. • Educational opportunities: Children thrive when they have a stable home environment. Affordable housing contributes to the educational success of our youth by reducing the stress and uncertainty associated with housing instability. A safe and secure home provides the foundation for children to excel academically and become the leaders of tomorrow. • Health and well-being: The link between housing and health is undeniable. Affordable housing promotes physical and mental wellbeing by offering families a refuge from the stressors associated with inadequate, unstable living conditions. It is an investment in the health of our community, preventing the negative consequences that arise when housing becomes a barrier to wellness. • Community cohesion: Affordable housing fosters diverse and inclusive communities. It ensures that our neighborhoods are vibrant and rich with a mix of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity strengthens the fabric of our society, promoting understanding, empathy, and a sense of shared purpose among residents. Affordable housing is not merely about bricks and mortar; it is about building the foundation for a resilient, thriving, and inclusive community. Working together, we can create a community where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.

Jeff Eckles CEO SLO County Housing Trust Fund

10 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

Opinion

Rule the roost

reeding flocks need one rooster for every 10 hens to be successful. You know, fertile eggs, baby! As in eggs that can produce little chickee chicks. With Santa Barbara County’s new rooster regulations, you can’t really breed a flock of more than 10 hens on less than 1 acre, 20 chickens on 2 to 5 acres, and 50 hens on properties with more than 5 acres. Not to harp on the county’s new roost rules for a second week in a row, but the dust kicked up at the last meeting made me curious. Chicken limits aren’t included in the rules, per se, but that’s what the reality of the new ordinance means for hobbyist breeders and poultry show enthusiasts. There are exemptions for large poultry ranching, reasonable family uses, educational poultry projects, or other “legitimate” agricultural activities. Is being a chicken hobbyist legitimate? I guess it depends on who you ask. Cebada Canyon resident Eduardo Ramos purchased his property because it was agriculturally zoned. He saw that it was “the right place to keep his fowl because of zoning.” His flock numbers 140— meaning he needs more than 10 roosters to keep those hens laying. “Then I started to hear rumors saying that I fight roosters here. I don’t,” he said. “I don’t know why they persist on that without any evidence.” And yet, persist they do. Anonymous letters submitted to the county as public comment on the ordinance—having names blacked out on consecutive public comment letters is super strange—make wild accusations and spread rumors about cockfighting operations breeding with abandon in Cebada Canyon. They call their neighbors liars. Sounds like a nice place to live, huh? Friendly.

Was Nextdoor not accessible enough to you folks? You had to take things to another level? One resident said that those housing roosters changed their story to say they are raising birds for poultry shows. “If this is the case, let’s see the 4-H show pictures,” the resident wrote, not realizing, maybe, that adults can’t actually participate in 4-H. “These roosters are not for breeding or showing.” Yeah! They’re for crowing! And, let’s be honest, that’s really the main issue that people have with roosters. These brave, anonymous Cebada Canyon residents probably don’t give a cluck whether the roosters are boinking hens or fighting for their lives. What they do care about is the noise. Too much cock-a-doodle-doo! Third District Supervisor Joan Hartmann, whose district holds Cebada Canyon among other rooster-impact areas of the county (yes, that’s a thing), said that “noise complaints consistently rank among the top issues brought to my office, affecting the quiet enjoyment of homes for many residents.” Hmm. Interesting. I guess people living in agricultural areas aren’t expecting agricultural noise? This little ordinance seems to be a tad too stringent, for folks with legitimate operations, something 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson took issue with. It didn’t take into account, for instance, the hens’ needs. Everything has needs. If the limit was say one rooster per 10 chickens, it would make more sense—agriculturally. “When you live in ag zoning, you’re going to have animal noises,” Nelson said. “It’s concerning when we start to use urban criteria on ag properties.” m The Canary is always anonymous. Sorry not sorry. Send guesses to canary@santamariasun.com.

SPECIAL PUBLICATION

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Come enjoy the sunshine at FOXEN and The Shack! call for reservations (805) 937-4251 Wines of Elegance & Balance Since 1985

7200 Shack: Open Fri-Sun only | 11am-4pm FOXEN: Open Daily by Reservations 7200 & 7600 Foxen Canyon Road | foxenvineyard.com

Follow Our Footsteps! Join classes now to perform in

Sleeping Beauty

Classes for ages 2 through adult!

Come try a class for free!

BOOK YOUR AD BY: February 2 PUBLICATION DATE: February 8

Promote your beauty, health, lifestyle, nutrition, fitness, and wellness offerings in our annual Health & Wellness issue. NORTHERN SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

(805) 347-1968 advertising@santamariasun.com

Everybody Can Dance Home of the Santa Maria Civic Ballet 628 S McClelland, Santa Maria Call 805-345-5570 or visit everybodycandance.webs.com www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 11

Hot Stuff

10-DAY CALENDAR: JANUARY 25 - FEBRUARY 4, 2024

BEGIN AT THE END

Women Making Waves hosts its upcoming day retreat, Empower and Envision, at Crows End Retreat Center on Sunday, Jan. 28, from 1 to 5 p.m. The event is described as a celebration of the essence of womanhood. Attendees will create vision boards and take part in other activities. Light refreshments are included. Tickets to the event are available in advance at my805tix.com. The Crows End Retreat Center is located at 6430 Squire Court, unit 8021, San Luis Obispo. —Caleb Wiseblood PHOTO COURTESY OF WOMEN MAKING WAVES

ARTS

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. 805-928-7799. Kleindancesarts. com. KleinDance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria. 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/. FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE: WEST COAST SWING Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45 p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 832-884-8114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt.

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 California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, calnatureartmuseum.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. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, calnatureartmuseum.org. EN MI CORAZÕN: DEBBI GREEN AT GALLERY LOS OLIVOS Artist Debbie Green has solo show exhibiting a collection of farm animals: cows, chickens, horses, donkeys, and their spirited personalities reflected in paint with love and affection. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Feb. 29 Free. 805 688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. LAUGH THERAPY: STAND UP COMEDY 2024 Headliner Amanda Cohen is a regular at Flapper’s Comedy Club in Burbank and other clubs around LA when she isn’t touring. Jan. 31, 8-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, 805-686-4785. MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE An installation by Northridge-based artist Elizabeth Criss. Through Feb. 1 calnatureartmuseum. org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang. WINTER SALON View this 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. LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

FIRST THURSDAY ART WALK Mark your calendars for December 7 for Art Walk. Cypress Gallery will be open, and its Holiday Show will be up for shopping. Features a “Holiday Make and Take.” Visitors will create their own work of art and take it home. First Thursday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. Lompoc Valley Art Association (Cypress Gallery), 119 E. Cypress, Lompoc, CA, 805-737-1129, lompocart.org. SOUTH COAST SLO 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. RHIZOME THEATER CO. PRESENTS: GRANDMAS Complex, adoring, unassuming, cantankerous, wise, impulsive, feared, beloved, remembered: grandmas come in all kinds. A free in-progress reading of a new interviewbased documentary theater piece inspired by the lives and words of local grandmothers. Jan. 28, 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 805-801-5023. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande. SAN LUIS OBISPO

ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre

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 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

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. BARRY GOYETTE: MULBERRY For his exhibition at SLOMA, San Luis Obispobased artist Barry Goyette shows a series of portraits taken by a very specific mulberry tree as a site for portrait photography guided by the models, of varying stages of life. Feb. 2-June 3, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/ exhibition/barry-goyette-mulberry/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. BEGINNERS STAND-UP CLASS This class is designed to introduce the foundational elements of stand-up comedy. Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m. through Feb. 13 my805tix.com. Central Coast Comedy Theater Training Center, 2078 Parker Street, Suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-858-8255. 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. COMEDY NIGHT Professional comedy show featuring local and touring comics. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. First Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. $5. 805540-8300. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo, bangthedrumbrewery.com. 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

INDEX Arts.......................................12 Culture & Lifestyle ...........17 Food & Drink ......................18 Music ...................................18

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. FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. IMPROV 101: INTRODUCTION TO IMPROV COMEDY CLASS A great way to explore performance and try comedy out in a positive, welcoming environment. Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m. through Feb. 14 my805tix.com. Central Coast Comedy Theater Training Center, 2078 Parker Street, Suite 200, San Luis Obispo, 805-858-8255. JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. 702-335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo. KIDS POTTERY This is a month-long class that meets four Thursdays. Homeschooled children welcome. A Heartland vendor. Thursdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. through March 1 $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey 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. MUSTANG BALL BALLROOM DANCE COMPETITION Experience the thrill of a live ballroom competition highlighting dance events in all ballroom, latin, and nightclub styles with hundreds of competitors from across the state. The

event concludes with a professional showcase from Rhythm Dance Champions. Feb. 3, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. $10. mustangball.com/. Chumash Auditorium, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, 805-756-1281. OPEN MIC COMEDY Sign-ups at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. Mondays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-540-8300. saintsbarrel. com/event-calendar. Saints Barrel Wine Bar, 1021 Higuera 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. through Jan. 27 $20 general admission. theatredance.calpoly. edu/orchesis-retrograde-winter-2024. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, 805-756-7113. 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 Butterflythemed 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. 805478-2158. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, artcentralslo.wordpress.com. SCULPTURE SERIES WITH ROD PEREZ Rod will guide guests through creating a bust sculpture throughout the month of February. Meeting twice a week offers ample time to craft and fine tune your piece. Beginners welcome. Clay sold separately at $35 per bag. Please book in advance online. Mondays, Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon through Feb. 26 $250.

ARTS continued page 17

@feedthevalley_syv @feedthevalley.org

Fighting Food Insecurity in the Santa Ynez and Santa Maria Valleys

www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 13

A Better Way to Fe

Feed the Valley activ delivering nutritious including elders and

The seniors have “ expressed to me that

they’re super thankful for these warm delicious meals, but they also truly appreciate how the restaurants consider their age when preparing soft foods which are easier to bite, chew, and digest. They also love how the meals are always healthy. – Laura from Los Alamos Foundation (Volunteer)

”

14 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

Our Partners:

eed Those In Need

tivates local restaurants to fight food insecurity by us meals to vulnerable members of our community, nd low income individuals and families. 60 meals each week “ Preparing is SO worth it for all the smiles and the heartwarming stories we chefs get to see and hear from the folks in need. Their gratitude makes me grateful.

”

– Steve from Bell’s (Companion Hospitality Research & Outreach Chef)

For just $10 = a nourishing, delicious meal is prepared for a member of our community. Valley Piggery Catering ~ Pig Roasts ~ Fresh Pork Santa Barbara County

Est. 2013

www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 15

35,000+ meals served to the local community since 2020.

Join us in making a difference. Donate Today:

Contribute to our meal program and help feed those in our community today! feedthevalley.org @feedthevalley_syv

Sponsored By:

16 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

Hot Stuff ARTS from page 12 anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. SIMPLIFYING NATURE WITH PASTELS WITH JIM TYLER In this workshop, we’ll address how to tame the chaos of nature in a painting and decide what’s important in the scene and how to emphasize that. We’ll also use an alcohol wash underpainting. All experience levels welcome, although this is not an ideal introduction for beginners. Feb. 3, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $85. 805748-2220. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN MIC NIGHT Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-2337, libertinebrewing.com. SLOFUNNY COMEDY SHOW Hosted by Daniel Eachus (Dry Bar Comedy), with Mark Fernandez, Cat Alvarado, Featuring Anthony K. With Headliner Subhah Agarwal. Jan. 27, 6:30 & 9 p.m. my805tix.com/. Enjoy acts from five headliners. Two chances to see the show. Jan. 27, 6:30 & 9 p.m. my805tix.com. Dairy Creek Golf Course, 2990 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo, 805-782-8060. 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. through Jan. 25 $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

BOTSO: A CHARITY SCREENING Enjoy this acclaimed documentary about local music teacher and artist Botso Korisheli. Proceeds support SLO Youth Symphony. Jan. 25, 6 p.m. my805tix.com. Bay Theater, 464 Morro Bay Blvd, Morro Bay, 805-772-2444. COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. 805-3945560. coastalwineandpaint.com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria. DEBRA PIAZZA: ACRYLIC, MIXED MEDIA ARTIST Piazza began her painting career during the pandemic, and uses handmade collage papers, and/or anything she can find to enhance the texture of a flat canvas. Exhibiting at Morro Made, Rustic Diamond, Morro Bay Art Association, Cayucos Makers, and Mea Winery. ongoing 650-888-2168. 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 WOMEN: THE MUSICAL Morro Bay High School presents this production, which follows the saga of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy—as they grow up in Civil War America. This family-friendly show is sure to delight young and old alike with astonishing music, and a heartfelt story. Jan. 26, 7-9 p.m., Jan. 27, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m., Feb. 2, 7-9 p.m. and Feb. 3, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. Adults $15; Child/Student $12. sites.google.com/slcusd.org/mbhsdrama/ home. Morro Bay High School, 235 Atascadero Rd., Morro Bay, 805-771-1845. OIL PAINTINGS BY RON DIEB “My oil paintings explore possibilities through thickly applied, vibrant color utilized freely with both knives and

JANUARY 25 - FEBRUARY 4, 2024 PHOTO COURTESY OF LAUGH THERAPY

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. 805-7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. 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, 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.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

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, See website, San Luis Obispo. BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. 559-9059274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. BIRDS AND BOTANY MONTHLY WALK AT SLO BOTANICAL GARDEN The Garden is excited to present a monthly bird walk series on the fourth Thursday of Actor, comedian, and writer-director Jon every month which explores the Kondelik is one of the featured comedians at intersection of birds and botany. Fourth Thursday of every Laugh Therapy’s next showcase at the Maverick SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS month, 8-11 a.m. $10 for Garden Saloon in Santa Ynez on Wednesday, Jan. 30 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED IN SANTA Members; $40 for general 31, from 8 to 10 p.m. Tickets to the standMARIA/ORCUTT Community Partners public. 805-541-1400. slobg. up comedy event, for ages 21 and older, are in Caring is seeking volunteers to help org. San Luis Obispo Botanical support dependent older adults and available for $20 in advance at my805tix.com. Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., seniors. partnersincaring.org. Santa Maria. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. The Maverick Saloon is San Luis Obispo. ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday located at 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez. BOOK SIGNING WITH AUTHOR of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares ROGER RAPAPORT Rapoport —C.W. Ave., Orcutt, 805-937-9750. will discuss his new novel, Searching for Patty Hearst, to BOUNCING BABY STORY TIME Explore anyone eager to explore this enchanting art. recognize the 50th anniversary pre-literacy skills through music, Immerse yourself in the rhythmic movements of the kidnapping; a story that transfixed movement, and visual stimulation, and promote and vibrant music as you embark on a journey the nation. Rapoport is an award-winning a healthy bond between baby and caregiver. of self-discovery and expression. Mondays, 5:30- journalist who has covered the Patty Hearst Learn, connect, and grow with other babies 6:30 p.m. through Jan. 29 $30. 805-619-0989. story since 1974. Jan. 31, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. 805and their caregivers. For ages 0-12 months. empoweryoga805.com/events. Empower Yoga 781-4187. slolibrary.org. San Luis Obispo Library This program runs approximately 30 minutes. Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Community Room, 995 Palm Street, Wednesdays, 10 a.m. through Feb. 14 805-925Ave., Grover Beach. San Luis Obispo. 0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., CHAKRA BLISS WORKSHOP Guests are guided CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN Santa Maria. through a series of restorative yoga poses TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith carefully curated to activate and align the seven based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to First Saturday of every month, 9:30-11:30 a.m. St. Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday energy centers, or chakras, within your body. Each pose is thoughtfully selected to target Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., of every month, 7 p.m. Free. 805-934-3948. specific chakras, promoting a sense of inner San Luis Obispo. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria. harmony and well-being. Feb. 4, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 GROUNDSWELL INTERNATIONAL: 15TH FAMILY YOGA STORY TIME Families, relax MUSIC p.m. $45. 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com/ ANNIVERSARY Hear how GI promotes together at this yoga story time. Children and events. Empower Yoga Studio and Community sustainable ag in vulnerable countries; a caregivers will be introduced to mindfulness Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach. positive force in fighting climate change. and learn exercises to help regulate emotions. COMPASSIONATEFLAVOR/EATS COMMUNICATION WITH Refreshments provided. Questions and RSVP: Space and supplies are limited. Borrow a yoga SHERRI SORRO DELAPLANE When was 805-235-5778. Event is not sponsored by the mat or bring one from home. Jan. 29, 11 a.m. the last time you experienced being seen United Church of Christ (host is renting the 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa and understood? Every venue). Jan. 27, 2-4 p.m. Free. 805-235-5778. INFOday around the Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. world, the Center United Church of Christ (Congregational) of McClelland St., for Compassionate San Luis Obispo, 11245 Los Osos Valley Rd., San Santa Maria. Communication Luis Obispo. CALENDAR FEEL GOOD YOGA supports the HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP Tuesdays, Thursdays, transformation of how A safe place to share life experiences with 8:30-9:30 a.m. 805-937we speak to ourselves those who have depression or have had and Send event information to calendar@ OPINION 9750. oasisorcutt.org. and one another, one recovered from the devastating effects of Oasis Center, 420 Soares santamariasun.com. empathic conversation depression. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Dec. Ave., Orcutt. at a time, speaking the 30 Free. 805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness NEWS“language of life.” Jan. FIRST FRIDAY Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. 31, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $100 for 3 weeks; $175 for First Friday of every month facebook.com/ LIFE, SOIL, FOOD, AND YOU What can you couples. 805-956-1424. energeticpathways.net/. firstfridayoldtownorcutt/. Historic Old Town do to slow climate change, lessen floods and Energetic Pathways, 200 South 13th St., suite Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt. STROKES droughts, increase biodiversity, feed people 214, Grover Beach. GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for healthy, nutritious food, and promote justice DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST the remainder of this year’s group hike dates all at the same time? Talk about it with Tim RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class and private hike offerings. ongoing 805-343ARTS LaSalle, former CEO of the Rodale Institute and schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@ 2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo regenerative ag specialist. Jan. 28, 2-3:30 p.m. gmail for details and reservations. ongoing Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe. Free. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Hall, 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE Grand Ave., Grover Beach. ASTROLOGY FOR SELF EMPOWERMENT MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. What is astrology and how can we use it to POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS A Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental positively inform us to live our best lives? Join docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis local professional astrologer Lori Waters for of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Obispo, 805-270-3346. this workshop to learn the history of western Check website for more details. Wednesdays, astrology and how we can use it for our own Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San POLITICAL ADVOCACY FOR YOUR CLIENTS (FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS) In this empowerment. Jan. 27, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Free; $10 Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach. dynamic, in-person, 90-minute workshop, donation suggested. 805-270-3192. Shell Beach SCIENCE AFTER DARK A monthly lecture you will gain a deeper understanding of how Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., series at the Central Coast Aquarium. An you can legally and effectively lead political Pismo Beach, pismobeach.org. evening for those ages 21 and older. Last advocacy, including seeking funding, for your BELLY DANCE BASICS WORKSHOP Welcome Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. through May organization, its clients, and mission. This to the mesmerizing world of belly dance. This 28 my805tix.com. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 18 basics class is the perfect starting point for San Juan St., Avila Beach, 805-595-7280.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SALOON LOON

Spread the word!

www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 17

Hot Jazz Dance Parties SUNDAY, JAN 28 · 12:30-4:00PM

Carl Sonny Leyland’s Boogie Woogie Boys Boogie Woogie, Blues, Swing & Rock & Roll!

Hot Stuff CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 17 session is designed for nonprofit leaders— CEOs, executive directors, board members, and others. Jan. 31, 3-4:30 p.m. $60; $35 for Spokes Members. 805-547-2244. spokesfornonprofits. org. People’s Self-Help Housing, 1060 Kendall Road, San Luis Obispo. QI GONG FITNESS ONLINE Qi Gong is a gentle but powerful way to strengthen body, mind, and spirit. Great for balance. Instructor: Gary West, through Adult School, San Luis Coastal Unified School District. An online class. Wednesdays, 9:35-10:35 a.m. through May 22 $90. 805-5491222. ae.slcusd.org/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. YOUR NEW VIBE: INTENTION, MANIFESTATION, EMPOWERED ACTION An inspiring and rejuvenating Women’s Day Retreat hosted by Women Making Waves. Jan. 28, 1-5 p.m. my805tix.com/. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo. NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

OPENER Cuesta’s #1 Jazz Combo

Join the Party! Join the Club! Special “Roadshow” this month at Oceano Elks Lodge

Pier Ave between Hwy 1 & the Ocean

Feb 25–Starlight DreamBand (Classic Big Band) Mar 24–San Lyon Jazz Band (Gypsy Swing)

BasinStreetRegulars.com

ALL TICKETS. ONE PLACE.

ON SALE NOW!

ENJOY AXE THROWING Enjoy the art of axe throwing in a safe and fun environment. Kids ages 10 and older are welcome with an adult. No personal axes please. Fridays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. $20. 805-5284880. baysidemartialarts.com. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos. 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. SHAMANIC MORNING RITUALS FOR VITALITY Hosted by Aurora Meditations & Rituals. Jan. 26, 8:30-9:30 a.m. my805tix.com. Beach Access Parking Lot, 102 Atascadero Road, Morro Bay. 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

Mardis Gras Mambo FEATURING THE DIRTY DOZEN BRASS BAND & NATHAN & THE ZYDECO CHA CHA’S

Fri., February 9 • 7:30pm Clark Center for the Pe orming A s, Arroyo Grande Presented by:

CLARK CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

MY805TIX.COM Does your organization sell tickets? Get more exposure and sell more tickets with a local media pa ner. Call 805-546-8208 for more info.

JANUARY 25 - FEBRUARY 4, 2024 PHOTO COURTESY OF BEDFORD WINERY

17TH ANNUAL LOS ALAMOS MUSHROOM FESTIVAL A unique, multidimensional culinary event in a relaxed, outdoor setting featuring mushroom-centric dishes that continually arrive, utilizing over a dozen varieties. Live, mushroom-themed folk music will accompany as well as Bedford wine. Legendary mycologist professor Bob Cummings will be available to expand guests’ knowledge. Jan. 27, 2-5 p.m. $80. 805-344-2107. bedfordwinery.com/. Bedford Winery Tasting Room & Courtyard, 448 Bell Street, Los Alamos. CHIMINEAS RANCH FOUNDATION BANQUET AND FUNDRAISER The Chimineas Ranch Foundation is a nonprofit conservation organization that supports habitat improvement for wildlife and outdoor youth education. Dinner is $60 for adults and $15 for children under 12. Includes dinner, raffles, games, and live and silent auctions. Visit website or call for tickets. Feb. 3, 4 p.m. $60. 408-425-3513. chimineasranchfoundation.org/banquet-2024february-3. Santa Maria Elks Lodge, 1309 N. Bradley Road, Santa Maria. FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays 805-922-1468. 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/.

18 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

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. RUSS DOUGLAS LIVE Enjoy live music from Russ Douglas. Visit site or call for more details. Feb. 2, 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

MUSH HOUR

The Bedford Winery Tasting Room and Courtyard hosts its 17th annual Los Alamos Mushroom Festival on Saturday, Jan. 27, from 2 to 5 p.m. This outdoor culinary event features several mushroomcentric dishes crafted from more than a dozen different mushroom varieties. The festival will also include live folk music, wine, and more. Admission is $80. Visit bedfordwinery.com for more info. The venue is located at 448 Bell St., Los Alamos. —C.W. 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. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. 805-295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach. SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo. 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. PIÑATAS ON THE PATIO What is more festive than a piñata? Join for some brunch drinks and a couple of good hits to a piñata (or

two). Good times and goofy prices promised. Turns will be determined on a first come, first served basis. First Sunday of every month Free. Rambling Spirits, 3845 S. Higuera St. (inside SLO Public Market), San Luis Obispo, drinkramblingspirits.com. SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo. NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

CAMBRIA ART AND WINE FESTIVAL PAINT AND SIP A special afternoon of wine tasting with local wineries. Features wine tasting, small bites, and a canvas plus materials to create your masterpiece. Jan. 26, 3-5 p.m. $55. 805-927-8190. cambriacenterforthearts. org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria. PAINT AND SIP Please join ArtSocial 805 at Moonstone Cellars for an afternoon paint. Jan. 27, 1-3 p.m. $54-$59. 805-400-9107. moonstonecellars.com/ca-wine-orders. Moonstone Cellars, 812 Cornwall St, Cambria. WINEMAKER’S DINNER FEAT. CUTRUZZOLA VINEYARDS Enjoy a fine five-course meal accompanied by hand-selected Cutruzzola wines. In addition to delicious plates, this is also a learning experience where a Cutruzzola Vineyards expert will guide you through the tasting notes of each wine pairing. Jan. 28, 5:30-8 p.m. $99. 805-927-4200. cambriapineslodge.com. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

FLY ME TO THE MOON Spend your Saturday afternoon with the whole family at the Santa Maria Philharmonic’s Fly Me to The Moon concert at First Christian Church of Santa Maria. Jan. 27, 4-5 p.m. Free. 805-925-0412. givebutter. com/FamilyConcert. First Christian Church, 1550 S College Drive, Santa Maria. 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. OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. 805-478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.

LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, 805-686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com. SONGWRITERS AT PLAY SONG CONTEST IN SOLVANG 10 contestants, two songs each, three judges, three prizes; leading to $1,000 Grand Prize at the April finale. Jan. 29 contestants: Launnie Ginn, Hayli Carleton, Peter Claydon, Katie Ferrara, Sonja Midtune, Austin Skalecki, Sage Leary, Skunk Puppy, Michael Wilds, Kara Alexys. Ages 21 and over welcome. Jan. 29, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. songwritersatplay. com/events. High Roller Tiki Lounge, 433 Alisal Road, Solvang. WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, 805-686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com. LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

EVELYN GROVE AND WHOSE HOUSE IS THIS Visit site for tickets and more info on the event. Feb. 3, 7 p.m. my805tix.com. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. 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. YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

CARL SONNY LEYLAND: BASIN STREET REGULARS An enchanting performance by Carl Sonny Leyland and His All Stars and an opening act from the Cuesta College Combo. Elk members and BSR members will receive the discounted rate of $10. Jan. 28, 1-4 p.m. $10 for members; $15 for non-members. my805tix.com/. Oceano Elks Lodge, 410 Air Park Drive, Oceano. 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. 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. The show is sold out, but there’s a wait list. 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 event with barbecue offerings and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, 805-925-3500. THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF GEORGE MICHAEL A concert-style theatrical production that chronicles the performance and sounds of George Michael with staging and lighting while telling his story, from early music hits with Wham!, to later hits including “Wake Me Up Before You Go Go,” “Freedom,” “Careless Whisper,” “Father Figure,” and more. Jan. 31, 7:30-10:30 p.m. $44-$75. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

MUSIC continued page 19

Hot Stuff MUSIC from page 18 SAN LUIS OBISPO

ANDREW BALIO BRASS MASTER CLASS Andrew Balio, principal of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, will present a master class. Brass players from the Cal Poly Music Department and San Luis Obispo Youth Symphony will perform and receive input from Balio Feb. 1, 11:10 a.m.-noon Free. 805-756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. BLUES WEDNESDAYS Spinning blues records all night. Chicago, Memphis, Delta, Detroit, and more. Visit this new vinyl bar in the Railroad District. Acoustically treated room, old-school sound system, big speakers, but always at a polite volume. Plenty of free parking. Wednesdays, 2-8 p.m. Free. 313-316-7097. Jan’s Place, 1817 Osos St., San Luis Obispo, jansplaceslo.com. HERB ALPERT AND LANI HALL Join Herb Alpert and Lani Hall for an unforgettable evening of eclectic jazz, world, and American pop music. This husband-and-wife due has been captivating audiences since 2006. Jan. 31, 7:30-9 p.m. $44$64. 805-756-2787. calpolyarts.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. LED ZEPAGAIN: A TRIBUTE TO LED ZEPPELIN Get ready to experience the iconic rock sounds of Led Zeppelin like never before. Led Zepagain, hailed by AXS TV as the World’s Greatest Tribute to Led Zeppelin, is set to ignite the stage at Spanos Theatre. Feb. 3, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $40. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. LEGENDS OF CAJUN AND CREOLE MUSIC 7 Sisters Folklore Society is proud to welcome Jourdan Thibodeaux, Cedric Watson, and Joel Savoy to the Milking Parlor for a night of Cajun and Creole traditional music. Feb. 4, 7-9 p.m. $20 in advance; $25 at the door. 805-235-2874. eventbrite.com. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, 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. SEA SHANTY PERFORMANCE AND SING-ALONG The Morro Bay Shanty Project will perform sea shanties and other songs of the sea. Audience members will be encouraged to sing along and share favorites. At this fundraiser, 20 percent of sales goes to the Central Coast Funds for Children. Jan. 26, 5-6 p.m. Free. 805-225-6571. House of Bread, 1025 Farmhouse Lane, San Luis Obispo, houseofbread.com. SLO SYMPHONY 2023-2024 SEASON Enjoy the SLO Symphony’s 2023-24 season, featuring classic works by Brahms, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky, local composers Stefan Podell and Meredith Brammeier, with the Forbes Pipe Organ, SLO Youth Symphony, and guest soloists Gilles Apap, Andrew Balio, and Salome Jordania. Feb. 3, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $12-$82. 805-543-3533. slosymphony.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. UTTER SCORN LIVE Enjoy live metal from Utter Scorn (death metal), Rituals Of Despair (deathcore), Desoectomy (slam), Catacombs (metalcore), and No Warning Shots (hardcore). Jan. 26, 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, 805-781-9974.

ALWAYS AMAZING.

NEVER ROUTINE.

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK

HOLLYWOOD FIGHT NIGHTS

FEBRUARY 9 | FRIDAY | 8PM

FEBRUARY 23 | FRIDAY | 7PM

GERARDO CORONEL

TYLER HENRY

MARCH 1 | FRIDAY | 8PM

MARCH 15 + 16 | 8PM

Management reserves the right to change or cancel promotions and events at any time without notice. Must be 21 or older. Gambling problem? Call 1.800.GAMBLER.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE A rockin’ blues dance party at Niffy’s Merrimaker every first, third, and now fifth Wednesdays. The Blues Asylum house band welcomes local, visiting, and newcomers to the blues groove. Spirits, beer, and wine, with outside food welcome. Every other Wednesday, 7-10 p.m. Free. 805-235-5223. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos. THE CLIFFNOTES TO MAKE MERRIMAKER EVEN MERRIER THIS FRIDAY The crowd at Niffy’s Merrimaker demanded more roots, rockin’ music from The Cliffnotes. It’s a free, fun way to get 2024 off to a rockin’ good start. Jan. 26, 7-10 p.m. Free. 805-439-1735. niffysmerrimaker.com. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos. FOREVER GREEN: LIVE AT NIFFY’S MERRIMAKER LGBTQ duo Forever Green plays live at Niffy’s Merrimaker. Feb. 3, 5-7 p.m. Free. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos, 805-534-1007. LISTENING AS RITUAL Group listening sessions with musician/musicologist Ben Gerstein. Explore remarkable recordings of world music, nature field recording, western classical and contemporary, and jazz, sharing and discussing inspiration and perspectives on the expressive power of peoples, cultures, animals and habitats through sonic experience. Every other Monday, 7-8:15 p.m. $10-$15 donation. 805-305-1229. leftcoastartstudio.com/. Left Coast Art Studio, 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos. SEA SHANTY PERFORMANCE AND SING-ALONG The Morro Bay Shanty Project will perform sea shanties and other songs of the sea. Audience members will be encouraged to sing along, and share favorites. Feb. 3, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. 805-225-6571. Morro Bay Maritime Museum, 1154 Front St., Morro Bay. m

Welcome to Freedom

ON SALE NOW

ONE FREE

JANUARY 26 - MARCH 16

SMALL POPCORN! Expires 3/16/24

Great Snacks · Cold Beer · Hwy 1 Oceano · 805-489-2499 · americanmelodrama.com www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 19

Arts

BOOKS COURTESY PHOTOS BY CHUCK GRAHAM

ARTS BRIEFS New art show brings oil painter Debbi Green to Los Olivos

MUSIC

COURTESY IMAGE BY DEBBI GREEN FLAVOR/EATS

INFO

CALENDAR

OPINION

NEWS

STROKES

Showtime!

ARTS

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

Gallery Los Olivos will premiere its next solo exhibition, a showcase of oil paintings by Debbi Green, on Thursday, Feb. 1. The show, titled En Mi Corazón: Amigos y Familia, is scheduled to remain on display through Thursday, Feb. 29. According to press materials, the exhibit highlights “Green’s innate ability to capture in her paintings the feelings and characteristics of the farm animals she loves.” The Southern California-based artist will be at the gallery during a free artist reception on Saturday, Feb. 3, from noon to 3 p.m. to discuss her work and some of the animals—including cows, chickens, dogs, and horses—she’s painted over the years. Some of the horse paintings in the upcoming show were based on horses at the Return to Freedom Sanctuary in Lompoc. Green donates a percentage of all her art sales to Guide Dogs of America as part of her ongoing aim to “continue to give back to the animals and create awareness about their lives and the importance of them in ours and the world,” the artist said in press materials. Green previously worked as a fashion designer and costume designer for the film industry before embracing her passion to paint full time at age 50. She then began studying painting with signature artists from the California Art Club and Los Angeles Art Academy. Aside from Gallery Los Olivos during Green’s exhibit run, Green’s works are on permanent display in boutiques throughout Southern California such as Topanga Homegrown, Coutula in Venice, and the Enchanted Studios Rentals. To find out more about the artist, visit debbigreen.com. For more info on Gallery Los Olivos, call (805) 688-7517 or visit gallerylosolivos.com. The venue is located at 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

Orcutt Community Theater presents Bed and Breakfast and Murder

IMAGE COURTESY OF ORCUTT COMMUNITY THEATER

Performances of Orcutt Community Theater’s latest production, Bed and Breakfast and Murder, kick off on Friday, Feb. 9, and run through Sunday, Feb. 25, at Klein Dance Arts Studio. Directed by Laura Gonzalez, the show follows two actors that regularly play cops on a television series who decide to become real police officers. The two are employed in a small town with a low crime rate, but the plot thickens when someone is murdered at a local bed and breakfast. For tickets to the show and more info, visit my805tix.com. Klein Dance Arts Studio is located at 3558 Skyway Drive, unit 1, Orcutt. m Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

SEA FOR YOURSELF: Local photographer Chuck Graham compiled his own photos of San Miguel Island and other areas of the Channel Islands National Park for his new book, Paddling into a Natural Balance.

Islands in the sun

Park, told through the lens of someone who’s kayaked the area for decades. “[I] realized that kayaking was the best way to immerse yourself in that national park. There’s so many places you can’t get to on foot or even in a boat,” Graham said. “I first paddled to the islands from the mainland in 1999.” Graham was familiar with the park before his initial kayaking trip there, as he’d first visited the islands in 1987. Aside from his writing and photography work—published in National Geographic, BBC Wildlife magazine, and other publications over the years—Graham’s career milestones include his 30year stint as a beach lifeguard in Carpinteria and his ongoing role leading kayak tours around the Channel Islands. One of Graham’s favorite things about exploring the area on a frequent basis is observing the wildlife. “If you know me, you know I spend a lot of time with island foxes. And with six different species of pinnipeds, it’s never boring out there,” said Graham, whose new book highlights conservation efforts involving several kinds of animals that inhabit the islands, including bald eagles. “The bald eagle chapter is arguably the most important because that raptor is the keystone species of the islands,” Graham said. “They were missing from the chain from 1952-2002, so it was vital to reestablish their presence on all the islands.” There’s one bald eagle in particular, known as A-03, that helped spark Graham’s epiphany to develop Paddling into a Natural Balance.

Local photographer captures vistas from a kayaker’s perspective, highlights conservation projects

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

ne book. Ten chapters. One hundred and seventy photographs. Carpinteria-based journalist Chuck Graham had oodles of his own photos—taken at Channel Islands National Park over the span of multiple years—to choose from while developing his latest opus. “It’s arguably the toughest decision,” Graham said about “whittling down” the photos included in his new book, Paddling into a Natural Balance: Stories of Kayaking & Conservation Around Channel Islands National Park. “I hope folks understand that to create a book like this, I had to put myself in uncomfortable situations to get photos of conservation success stories,” said Graham, who plans to recount some of his most “harrowing kayaking stories” during rough sea conditions to the attendees of his lecture on Jan. 26 at the California Nature Art Museum (formerly the Wildling Museum) in Solvang. Graham’s new book will also be available for sale during the event, and he’ll be signing copies on-site. Later in the spring, Graham has additional book signing engagements lined up around the Central Coast. While available to order online, his new book is also currently in supply at The Book Loft in Solvang, Coalesce Bookstore in Morro Bay, Volumes of Pleasure Bookshoppe in Los Osos, and other local spots. Paddling into a Natural Balance marks Graham’s third book, as the author also wrote Carrizo Plain: Where the Mountains Meet the Grasslands and shares a byline with John McKinney on Hike the Channel Islands. “As a freelance writer and photographer, I’ve always searched for stories that no one else was really going after,” Graham said about what brought him WHAT DOES THE FOX SAY? Anyone who knows Carpinteria resident to focus his latest book on Chuck Graham knows how much he loves the island foxes that inhabit conservation projects at the Channel Islands National Park, according to the local author. Channel Islands National

20 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

REGAL RAPTOR: Chuck Graham’s new book, Paddling into a Natural Balance, features a chapter dedicated to bald eagles, including A-03, an eagle he photographed near the cliffs surrounding Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island.

Paddle up

Visit chuckgrahamphoto.com for more info on photographer and author Chuck Graham and his new book, Paddling into a Natural Balance: Stories of Kayaking & Conservation Around Channel Islands National Park. The author plans to recount some of his kayaking stories during his lecture on Jan. 26 at 4:30 p.m. at the California Nature Art Museum (formerly the Wildling Museum), 1511 B Mission Drive, Solvang. The new book is available online and at The Book Loft in Solvang, Coalesce Bookstore in Morro Bay, Volumes of Pleasure Bookshoppe in Los Osos, and other stores.

Graham explained that during the pandemic, more bald eagles than usual made the islands their home “when no one was around” with few people visiting the park. Some of those eagles left by early 2021, but not A-03. “Now that visitors were returning, I thought [A-03] would move on, but [A-03] stayed,” Graham said. “When I started getting images that I liked of him from the cliffs and my kayak, it felt like a good sign that I finally had everything visually for this book of kayaking and conservation.” m Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood awaits the arrival of the Easter Eagle. Send punny Peanuts references to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

KINDRED KAYAKERS: A group of kayakers paddle near Scorpion Rock in Chuck Graham’s latest book, Paddling into a Natural Balance. Graham has worked as a kayak tour guide at Channel Islands National Park since the late ’90s.

TICKETS ON SALE

NOW!

FEB 15 – MAR 3

MARIAN THEATRE, SANTA MARIA

241 S Broadway Orcutt 805.305.5051

TICKETS 805-922-8313 | PCPA.ORG GROUPS* 805-928-7731 x.4150

*12 OR MORE

www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 21

Film

SUN SCREEN

Not dreck enough

COURTESY PHOTO BY CLAIRE FOLGER/METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURES INC.

ord Jefferson (The Good Place, Watchmen) directs this screenplay he co-wrote with Percival Everett (based on his novel Erasure) about Black novelist Thelonious “Monk” Ellison (Jeffrey Wright), who’s told by his publisher that his most recent manuscript isn’t “Black enough.” In response and under a nom de plume, he pens a satire that panders to Black culture, sending it to publishers out of spite, only to discover he’s a literary sensation. Is he willing to assume his nom de plume’s thug identity to carry on and profit from the ruse? (117 min.)

of the success of his joke novel while balancing a complicated personal and family life. It cuts to the quick. Anna: Monk is a man who needs to be taken seriously and takes things very seriously himself. He’s from a family of doctors and can’t help but feel a bit like an “other,” even though he has success as an author. His love and resentment for his family are both felt as he comes home. His sister has been carrying the burden of their mother’s care as she slips further into forgetfulness, and his recently out brother, Cliff (Sterling K. Brown), is living in a bit of a Peter Glen: This is another one of those 2023 awardPan’s Lost Boys world—one he denied himself worthy films that we’re just seeing in theaters for years living as a straight man. Monk meets locally, and oh my, it’s a sly and bitingly funny neighbor Coraline (Erika Alexander), a beautiful piece of work. Monk is a serious woman he starts to date, but and critically acclaimed but soon enough he can’t help AMERICAN FICTION poor-selling novelist who makes but to sabotage their budding What’s it rated? R relationship when he judges ends meet by teaching at a Los What’s it worth, Glen? Full price her choices as suburban and Angeles college. A perpetual What’s it worth, Anna? Full price pandering. The film is funny and grump, he’s troubled by novelists Where’s it showing? Downtown frustrating, and Jeffrey Wright like Sintara Golden (Issa Rae) Centre in SLO does a wonderful job at inviting and her novel We’s Lives In Da the audience along to feel his Ghetto, which he thinks is full character’s frustration and anger over what he of insulting stereotypes. Visiting family back sees as bad literature eclipsing good in the court home in Boston further darkens Monk’s mood, of public opinion. leading him to assume the name Stagg R. Leigh Glen: Monk is a man who deep down doesn’t and pen the manuscript My Pafology, meant seem to want to be happy, and he has a hard to skewer the expectations foisted upon Black time loving others since he doesn’t seem to love authors and insult publishers for wanting such himself. He’s beaten down by injustice, even dreck. It backfires when he’s offered a $750,000 advance at a time when he’s desperate for money though he comes from a privileged background. The message is clear: Everyone has their own to care for his ailing mother (Leslie Uggams). burden to bear. Partway through the story, Monk What follows is Monk’s struggle to make sense

WHO ARE YOU? After being told his writing isn’t “Black enough,” novelist Thelonious “Monk” Ellison (Jeffrey Wright) pens a “Black” book as a spoof, but it becomes a big hit, in American Fiction, screening in Downtown Centre in SLO.

learns Hollywood producer Wiley Valdespino (Adam Brody) has optioned his story for a film, and as the movie comes to a close, things get very meta as multiple possible endings are explored. It’s a new approach to American race relations, and as we look into the mirror it holds up to us, we seem ridiculous. I loved it. Anna: I really enjoyed it as well. Monk isn’t unlikeable, but he certainly can be a tiring person to be around. His attitude can come off

COURTESY PHOTO BY VISHAL SHARMA/NETFLIX

as holier than thou, but it all stems from his insecurity and unhappiness. The film manages to stay funny and light while also delving into some real tough stuff—what we think of ourselves, what others think of us, and how we let the two duel it out in our minds. I highly recommend this one! m New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com. PHOTO COURTESY OF INVESTIGATIVE DISCOVERY

THE CURIOUS CASE OF NATALIA GRACE: NATALIA SPEAKS

Television Reviews FOOL ME ONCE

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2024 Where’s it showing? Netflix Based on Harlan Coben’s 2016 novel of the same name, this British miniseries follows Maya Stern (Michelle Keegan), a former soldier with a tarnished record whose husband, Joe Burkett (Richard Armitage), is murdered before her eyes. While trying to pick up the pieces of her broken life and care for her toddler daughter, she discovers on her nanny cam footage of her dead husband playing with their daughter while she was out. Is Joe alive? Meanwhile, Maya’s niece and nephew are searching for clues to who murdered their mother, Maya’s sister. Are the two killers connected? And what about police Detective Sergeant Sami Kierce (Adeel Akhtar), who’s methodically working the case but with little progress. To further complicate things is Joe’s conniving mother, Judith (Joanna Lumley), who seems to have a hidden agenda. This little thriller keeps you guessing, but it also wallows in melodrama like an old-fashioned soap opera, and you have to believe that Maya, who looks like a fashion model and probably

WHO KILLED HER HUSBAND? Ex-soldier Maya Stern (Michelle Keegan) searches for her husband’s murderer in Fool Me Once, a British miniseries thriller based on Harlan Coben’s novel, streaming on Netflix.

weighs 110 pounds, is actually a badass who can take down men twice her size. If you’re up for some supermodel-fu and a story that doesn’t quite add up, it’s a fun watch. (eight approximately 50-min. episodes) —Glen

What’s it rated? TV-14 When? 2023-2024 Where’s it showing? Max Anyone who has seen the horror flick Orphan is familiar with the concept—a well-intended family adopts a child from a foreign land who proves to be a sinister adult posing as a child. Natalia Grace was a 6-year-old Ukrainian child with dwarfism adopted by Michael and Kristine Barnett. While it may seem the Barnetts’ intentions were to give Natalia a beautiful life while blending seamlessly into their family, which already had three boys in the mix, it soon becomes clear that the Barnetts’ motives were less than pure. And the lengths they went to in order to extract Natalia from their lives is mind-boggling. Claiming Natalia was in fact an adult and going so far as to having her legal age changed from 8 to 22 years old, the Barnetts created a living hell for their young ward and a big mystery for all those surrounding them. After all these years, the truth is finally being revealed in Season 2 of The Curious Case of Natalia Grace, and we finally hear from Natalia herself about her journey into actual adulthood and what life looks like moving on from her past. (12 42-min. episodes) m —Anna

Wake Up with Make Up

STRANGER THAN FICTION: In The Curious Case of Natalia Grace: Natalia Speaks, streaming on Max, adoptee Natalia Grace shares her perplexing story of being adopted by an American couple and later accused of being an adult dwarf posing as a child.

Dog Grooming Alert!

UPPER & LOWER EYELINE • BROW ENHANCEMENT • LIP ENHANCEMENT

BEFORE

AFTER

Thank You for Voting Us Best Place to Get a Massage!

50 OFF

Let’s talk about paws & nails, matting in between the feet. We love to educate,that’s our job! Please feel free to ask your groomer what you can do to help with any of these situations if they occur. We also offer products to help you.

Expires 2/29/24. Not valid with any other offer.

3564 Skyway Dr., S.M.

PERMANENT MAKEUP 805-934-8682 | 130 Clark, Old Orcutt 22 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

(805) 361-0802

ThatsFETCH805.com

Grooming Team: Colette Florey, Dzi, Janae Amador, Isabella Moreno Grooming Externs: Cody Dugan & Holly Prewitt Groomers Assistants: Brandi Janke & Ryleigh MacLean

10th Annual Southern Exposure Garagiste Wine Festival

Roger Fripp & David Singleton: Englishmen Abroad

El Chorro Regional Park, SLO

Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall

Harold J. Miossi CPAC, Cuesta College

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

Botso- A Charity Film Screening

Improv Comedy Show: Ensemble Team and House Team 2

Noches de Karaoke y Bandas with DJ Kazanova

SMCT Presents: Charlotte’s Web

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 SLO Wine and Beer Co.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27

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

SLOFunny Comedy Show: Headliner Subhah Agarwal

Lose Your Illustion (Guns n’ Roses Tribute)

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

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

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

Improv Comedy Show: with Brian O’Connell

PAKT- An Evening of Electric Jazz

Mardi Gras Mambo feat. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, and more! FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 Bare Heart Boudoir, Los Osos

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, SLO

Evelyn Grove and Whose House Is This?

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Misfit Live Comedy & SLO Comedy Underground: Michael Mancini

Orcutt Community Theater: Bed and Breakfast and Murder

Brian O’Connell Improv Workshop

Miss Leo and the Handsome Fellers

FRI, SAT, & SUN, FEB 9-25 Klein Dance Arts Studio, Santa Maria

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Central Coast Comedy Theater, SLO

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

Live Music, Trivia, Karaoke, and more!

CHECK WEBSITE FOR DETAILS Club Car Bar, Templeton Mercantile

805-546-8208 info@My805Tix.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Paso Lounge, Paso Robles

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 St. Pauls Episcopal Church, Cambria

Scan QR code with camera to sign up for the weekly Ticket Wire newsletter. Get all the latest events each Wednesday!

ONGOING EVENTS

Central Coast Aquarium

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

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 Crows End Retreat Center, SLO

It’s free! Contact us for more info: 2024 SEASON PASS TEN SHOWS MARCH–DECEMBER Paso Robles & San Luis Obispo

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

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 Oceano Elks Lodge

SELL TICKETS WITH US! SLOFunny Comedy Show

Various Locations in SLO County

Shamanic Morning Rituals for Vitality

FRI, SAT, SUN, JANUARY 26–28 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

At Her Table

FRI-SUN MARCH 1-10

Full Moon Ceremony & 2024 Intention Setting

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 SLO Public Market, SLO

ONGOING EVENTS

FRI & SAT, FEBRUARY 9 & 10

UPCOMING EVENTS ON MY805TIX.COM

Live Oak Music Festival 2024

FEATURED EVENTS

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT MY805TIX.COM

www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 23

Eats

FOOD & DRINK PHOTO COURTESY OF GUADALUPE SOCIAL CLUB

PHOTO BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

MUSIC

Share tasty tips!

Send tidbits on everything food and drink to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

FLAVOR/EATS

INFO

CALENDAR

FLAT FEE FOR FLATBREAD: The Guadalupe Social Club in Guadalupe is one of several competing businesses participating in Santa Maria Valley’s OPINION Restaurant Month program, with a trio of flatbread, organic salad, and a chocolate brownie bite available for $20.24.

Steal the deal NEWS

STROKES

ARTS

Take advantage of this year’s $20.24 specials with local Dine Out Santa Maria Style promo

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

ugar. Spice. Everything nice. Maybe a little gin, vodka, and vermouth. Shaken, of course. While recipes both classic and classified are available year round, there are far more than just three ingredients on display throughout this year’s Dine Out Santa Maria Style. Also known as Santa Maria Valley’s Restaurant Month, the 2024 iteration of the annual promotion kicked off in mid-January and features edible and drinkable offerings from a dozen businesses, including the Guadalupe Social Club. Guests of the club, located on Guadalupe Street in downtown Guadalupe, during Dine Out—now through Feb. 11—have the opportunity to order a trio that includes one of the eatery’s signature flatbreads, an organic seasonal salad, and a chocolate brownie bite with whipped cream for $20.24. “We use an Italian crust, traditional tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese, with some artisan toppings,” Lexie Bell, co-owner of the Guadalupe Social Club, said about the venue’s flatbread offerings. “The flatbread is great because it can feed two to three people. You can eat it yourself, or share it, and it pairs great with wine.” Visitors hoping to take advantage of the $20.24 promo can inquire about which flatbreads they’re able to choose from by calling (805) 356-6018. In terms of topping options for eatery’s general flatbread selection, “we have a little bit of everything across the board,” added Bell. “We have a spicier one, the Buffalo chicken, which is really popular,” Bell said. “Our chef makes an amazing sauce on that one. That one’s been a real hit.” Patrons of the $20.24 deal can add a glass of wine to their meal for an additional $8. Bell recommends a chardonnay or sauvignon blanc. Other participating restaurants in this year’s Dine Out promotion include Cielito Lindo Restaurant (grab a chicken fajitas

dinner combo, which includes a soft or alcoholic drink), Cool Hand Luke’s (choose between a bacon jam burger combo or ribs combo), Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House & Cafe (pick any meal at the restaurant with a Cuban cocktail), the Garden Mediterranean Restaurant & Cafe (enjoy a tender lamb shank cooked to perfection), and Nena’s Kitchen (order any combination plate with an included beverage). There’s a plethora of additional offerings available from Maya Restaurant, Santa Maria Public Market, Blast 825 Brewery, Naughty Oak Brewing Company, Mountain Mike’s Pizza, and Straw Hat Pizza during

Yearly tradition

Visit santamariavalley.com for more info on Santa Maria Valley’s 2024 Restaurant Month and Craft Cocktail Contest.

the ongoing event as well. Some of the participating businesses, including the Historic Santa Maria Inn’s Century Room Restaurant and Olde English Taproom, are simultaneously competing in the 2024 Craft Cocktail Contest, hosted in conjunction with Dine Out by the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce. While the Santa Maria Inn is currently offering its chicken saltimbocca dinner (with pan-seared chicken wrapped in prosciutto, cherry heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella) for $20.24, the local landmark is mixing its 1917 cocktail (available for $14) as part of this year’s juried cocktail competition. “It’s gin, Chartreuse, Luxardo liqueur— which is a cherry liqueur,” blended with fresh lime juice, bartender Shane Combs said of the cocktail—which is named after the year

FILE PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM

APPETIZING SIGHTS: In conjunction with Santa Maria Valley’s 2024 Restaurant Month, guests of Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House & Cafe in Orcutt can get any of the venue’s meals plus a Cuban cocktail for $20.24, through Feb. 11.

24 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

TURN OF THE CENTURY: The Historic Santa Maria Inn’s Century Room Restaurant and Olde English Taproom mixes the 1917 cocktail for $14, as part of the Santa Maria Valley Chamber’s annual Craft Cocktail Contest.

the historic hotel was established. “I’ve tried it, it’s really good. I had a couple judges come in here already and try it out, and they said they liked it a lot.” The green Chartreuse liqueur gives the drink a bittersweet apple taste, Combs added, while the sweet cherry flavor “kind of masks the gin” and makes for “a really nice blend,” thanks to both the Luxardo and a maraschino cherry that sinks to the bottom of the cocktail. Aside from the deals associated with both Dine Out and the craft cocktail contest, there are few deals more special than the Santa Maria Inn’s complimentary fresh popcorn, available on a 24/7/365 basis. “It’s always been here,” Combs said of the popcorn maker, located next to the bar in the Olde English Taproom. “People come here all the time and ask when I’m making the popcorn.” m Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood is stuffing his top hat with popcorn and butter. Compliment his attire at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

PHOTO BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

YOU BUTTER BELIEVE IT: Fresh popcorn is complimentary at the Historic Santa Maria Inn’s Olde English Taproom.

Best

Voted Wood Fired Pizza & Place to go on a First Date!

Best

Southern Exposure / Feb 9 & 10, 2024

Entertainment Menu Jan 26th – Feb 3rd Appetizer Friday, Jan 26th

Latin Banda – 8pm Second Course Saturday, Jan 27th

Loose your Illusion Gun’s N Roses Tribute Band – 7pm

Order to go online or by phone

BelloForno.com or 805-623-7111

Main Course Friday, Feb 2nd

Noche de Baile Karoke – 7pm / SOLVANG, CA

Dessert Saturday, Feb 3rd

Evelyn Grove & Whose House is This – 7pm

DINE AL FRESCO, INDOOR, OR TO-GO

Entertainment so good you’ll say “more please”

119 E. Clark Ave, Old Town Orcutt

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

Great family meals too!

805-623-7111 belloforno.com

This January, enjoy

ALL TICKETS. ONE PLACE.

ON SALE NOW!

Luke’s

$10 OFF

yle F a m ilMye a St ls To-Go!

A unique tasting opportunity not to be duplicated! Join us in Solvang and explore over 150 hand-crafted wines made from over 20 different grape varietals. Meet the winemakers & expand your palate all in one weekend, all in one place! 2/9 - RARE & RESERVE - 6:30-9:00PM - $89 2/10 - GRAND TASTING - 2:00-5:00PM - $79 Early Access & Weekend Pass tickets available!

www.garagistefestival.com

The Life & Music of George Michael

Packaged Hot and Ready-to-Serve. Share this coupon to receive $10 off Family-Style Meals To-Go at Cool Hand Luke’s in Santa Maria, CA. Offer expires February 1st, 2024.

Weds., January 31 • 7:30pm

Giavanni’s Pizza

DINE-IN – TAKE-OUT – PICK-UP – DELIVERY Lunch Buffet

Monday-Friday All-You-Can-Eat Pizza, Pasta and Garlic Bread

Clark Center for the Performing Arts, Arroyo Grande

Includes Med Drink

$11.99

Presented by:

CLARK CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

MY805TIX.COM Does your organization sell tickets? Get more exposure and sell more tickets with a local media partner. Call 805-546-8208 for more info.

1321 South Nicholson Ave Santa Maria

805.928.6196

1108 E Clark Ave #130 • Orcutt • 805-934-8555

CoolHandLukes.com

Sunday–Thursday, 11am–9pm • Friday–Saturday, 11am–10pm www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 25

2024 DINE OUT SANTA MARIA STYLE

UPCOMING SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Promotions Available NOW - February 11th

Scan QR code to see participating restaurants.

BOOK ADS BY: February 2 PUBLICATION DATE: February 8

Promote your beauty, health, lifestyle, nutrition, fitness, and wellness offerings

WEDDINGS BOOK ADS BY: February 23 PUBLICATION DATE: February 29

Reach an affluent and active readership of brides and grooms-to-be

MENUS BOOK ADS BY: March 21 PUBLICATION DATE: April 2024

2024 Restaurant Month & Craft Cocktail Contest including the $20.24 specials!

For more information: SantaMariaValley.com/RestaurantMonth Content provided by the Santa Maria Valley Chamber.

Make Sure You Are Ready to Vote by Verifying Your Voter Registration March 5th Presidential Primary Election Verify Your Voter Registration at voterstatus.sos.ca.gov Register to Vote at registertovote.ca.gov A person entitled to register to vote must be a United States citizen, a resident of California, not currently imprisoned in a state or federal prison for the conviction of a felony, not currently found mentally incompetent to vote by a court, and at least 18 years of age at the time of the election. A person may preregister to vote if that person is a is a United States citizen, a resident of California, not currently imprisoned in a state or federal prison for the conviction of a felony, and at least 16 years of age.

Santa Barbara County Registrar of Voters

The Central Coast Guide to all things food and drink

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL BOOK ADS BY: April 12 SUMMER GUIDE BOOK ADS BY: May 17 PRIDE BOOK ADS BY: May 31

PUBLISHED: April 18 PUBLISHED: May 23 PUBLISHED: June 6

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO TODAY NORTHERN SANTA BARBARA COUNTY (805) 347-1968 · advertising@santamariasun.com 26 • Sun • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

805-568-2200 sbcvote.com

What’s Your Take? This week’s online poll 1/25–2/1

We know you’ve got an opinion. Everybody’s got one!

Have you gone to any of the restaurants participating in Dine Out Santa Maria Style?

m Yes, I’ve been to many so far. m Not yet, but I’m planning to try a bunch. m I’ve never heard of Dine Out Santa Maria Style. m I only care about Pea Soup Andersen’s. Enter your choice online at: SantaMariaSun.com

CLASSIES

Marketplace Home & Garden

MARKETPLACE

Reach over 150,000 readers weekly from Santa Ynez to San Miguel

Get your classified ad—for Free! Private parties may run FREE classified ads in the FOR SALE (items under $200) and GARAGE SALE sections for two weeks

Real Estate

Elevate your surroundings with our meticulous craftsmanship and personalized care – where your landscape dreams

HAULING & CLEAN-UP JT’s Hauling

Trees, Debris, Garage Clean Up, Moving and Recycling. Call Jon 805440-4207

We Buy Houses • NO ~ Real Estate Commissions • NO ~ Long Term Real Estate Listings! • NO ~ Closing Cost • NO ~ Repairs • YES ~ Fast Offers & Quick Closings

Any Price • Any Condition • Any Reasons

Rose Investments LLC

www.roseinvestmentsgroup.com (805) 448-6431

Call Today! Kincaid’s Landscape Care

805-268-5380

SELL YOUR

VEHICLE

IN OUR CLASSIFIEDS Just $35/week Submit one image and 25 words of description The cutoff to list your ad in Thursday’s paper is Monday at 2pm

ADVERTISE HERE

805-347-1968

Email classifieds@ newtimesslo.com Or call (805) 546-8208

NEW EDITION ON STANDS NOW! NOW

NOW ACCEPTING NEW LISTINGS

824 Crilene Ct, SM, CA 93455

Knocking with Opportunity!!! This 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home has a great cul de sac location. Tastefully updated kitchen with white cabinets and solid surface counter tops. A warm and inviting den or dining room with a fireplace for you to enjoy on these cold winter nights. The beautiful mature landscaping shows pride of ownership with the added bonus of flourishing fruit trees. Highly desired south facing back yard, RV parking on the left side of the house as well as a shed. Call your agent today for a private showing.

The Central Coast Guide to All Things Food & Drink

Fall/Winter 2023-24 on stands now Pick up a copy or check it out online:

NewTimesSLO.com

NEXT ISSUE: Spring/Summer 2024 · RESERVE ADS BY: March 22, 2024 · PUBLISHED: April, 2024

San Luis Obispo County: 805-546-8208

No. Santa Barbara County: 805-347-1968

(805) 922-0660 BRE #01275631 5400 Telephone Road, Santa Maria

www.WhyUSAProperties.net

advertising@NewTimesSLO.com

advertising@SantaMariaSun.com

www.santamariasun.com • January 25 - February 1, 2024 • Sun • 27

Happy January

WINE BAR � BUBBLES BREWS � BITES Live Music from 6 to 9pm January 26: Ron Miller February 2: Russ Douglas February 9: Ron Miller

4850 S. Bradley Rd. #D1, Orcutt

(805) 938-1965

www.backporchflowers.net

MELENA ROOFING PARTNERSHIP

No Job Too Small • Free Estimates

RESIDENTIAL – COMMERCIAL – INDUSTRIAL All Phases of roofing including HOT ASPHALT, TPO, PVC, and ALL Metal roofs!

400 E Clark Ave, Orcutt 805.623.5129

Find Your Support Locally

LIABILITY & WORKMANS COMP INSURED Over 30 Years in Business Proudly Serving the Santa Maria Valley

Family owned and operated Call Jimmy, Billy Melena or Victor Sedillos

SAKE

805.937.6200 JCMELENA@VERIZON.NET LIC. NO#937929

194 Town Center East, Santa Maria (805)922-9900

SOLAR ELECTRIC BATTERY BACKUP SOLAR POOL HEATING $0 DOWN FINANCING SERVICE & UPGRADES

P E OP L

GY • P • ENER

L AN E T

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE - AT ALL LOCATIONS!

SUSHI 805 A L L Y O U C A N E AT SUSHI & BBQ

460 W. Grand Ave. Grover Beach (805)489-3839

EXERCISE IS ESSENTIAL

Sake

2015 S Broadway B, Santa Maria

1325 N. “H” St. #C, Lompoc (805)736-8899

805-348-1888

wvhealthclub23@gmail.com

(805) 922-3774 • CSLB# 391670 • SINCE 1975

STRAIGHTEN YOUR SMILE

Our Store Hours Tues - Fri: 9:30-5:30 Saturday: 10-3 www.melbys.com Mention this ad for a Military discount

Sushi#2

KOREAN BBQ & SUSHI

STELLER HOME

Dr. Specht’s

Sun’s Best of Winner, 13 years! 1140 E. Clark Avenue · Suite 190 Santa Maria, CA 93455 (805) 925-1678

SUSHI #1

• Digital Orthodontic Experts • 3D-Printed Brackets • Central Coast’s Most Experienced Invisalign Doctor! Voted BEST ORTHODONTIST in Northern Santa Barbara County 7 years in a row! *Diamond Plus Provider

Visit us on Facebook & Instagram

Central Coast Orthodontics

1311 South Miller St, Ste. 201, Santa Maria (805) 347-4444

Shop Local reserve your space today

Furniture • Home Decor Gifts • Women’s Clothing ESTA 2020 Baby Section 255 Union Avenue, Orcutt ~ 805-287-9599 WendyASteller@gmail.com

805.347.1968 www.santamariasun.com