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Godzilla: A touching monster movie [20]

Santa Maria’s community college is hosting its inaugural competition in March at the Elks event center [6]

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

NEWS

Supervisor candidates’ financial filings [4]

ARTS

Friends, family, and animals [18]

EATS

Scottish folklore touches down in Los Olivos [21]

Contents FEBRUARY 1 - FEBRUARY 8, 2024

I

VOL. 24 NO. 49

n March, Allan Hancock College’s rodeo team will host its inaugural collegiate level rodeo at the Elks rodeo grounds.

The team formed in 2019, and met some setbacks during the pandemic, including needing a coach and a permanent practice space. Now practicing at the Elks, the team is raring to go with 12 students and a full-time coach. Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor speaks with the coach and student athletes this week [6].

This week, you can also read about how much money and from whom candidates for Santa Barbara County’s 3rd District raised so far this campaign season [4], oil painter Debbi Green’s latest exhibit [18], and Donnachadh in Los Olivos [21].

Camillia Lanham editor

DreamHome

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Cover image courtesy of Paloma Alvarado > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

NEWS

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

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ARTS

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

MOVIES

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

OPINION

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BARREL RACER: Paloma Alvarado has been on the Allan Hancock College rodeo team for two years.

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

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

EVENTS CALENDAR

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

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News

➤ Racing, roping, and wrangling [6]

February 1 - February 8, 2024

➤ Spotlight [8] FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF JENELLE OSBORNE

POLITICAL WATCH • U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) marked 20 years since the launch of Santa Barbara’s safe parking program—the first in the nation—by announcing bipartisan legislation to unlock federal dollars for similar programs designed to offer a “critical lifeline” to people experiencing homelessness, according to a Jan. 25 statement from Carbajal’s office.

The Naomi Schwartz and Susan Rose Safe Parking Act—named in honor of the two Santa Barbara County supervisors who first developed the 2004 program—would make safe parking programs eligible for federal housing fund grants that could support their operation and expansion. Carbajal worked for the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors in 2004 when the county partnered with New Beginnings to launch the nation’s first safe parking program, which offers overnight parking to individuals and families living in their vehicles. “I am proud to have played a small part in helping get this critical program off the ground—one that now has served hundreds of Central Coast residents across the county through the remarkable stewardship of New Beginnings. But I am also proud to see the inspiration our program has been for communities across America,” Carbajal said in the statement. “There’s no reason why the federal government should not be recognizing the difference these programs make in responding to the housing crises we are facing.”

• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) led his colleagues in calling on Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to consider additional student debt relief for borrowers experiencing financial hardship. Nearly 40 lawmakers from the Senate and House signed the letter, requesting Cardona host a fourth session of the student debt negotiated rulemaking, according to a Jan. 25 statement from Padilla’s office. Since the Supreme Court struck down President Joe Biden’s original student debt relief plan, the administration has pursued an alternative path for student debt relief through negotiated rulemaking (“neg-reg”) under the Higher Education Act. However, the Department of Education has not proposed language targeting relief to borrowers experiencing financial hardship, and negotiators were unable to take a vote on a hardship category in the third and last scheduled rulemaking session. Many negotiators asked for another session to be scheduled to consider “those experiencing hardship that is not otherwise addressed by the existing student loan system.” “While we appreciate the efforts of the department and the negotiating committee, we are concerned that, without full consideration of cancellation targeted toward borrowers facing financial hardship, the rule will not provide adequate debt relief for the most vulnerable borrowers,” the lawmakers said in a letter. “The department should announce a fourth session of the neg-reg to allow the appropriate time for negotiators to discuss and vote upon a relief proposal for borrowers experiencing financial hardship.”

• Gov. Gavin Newsom recently announced a reduction in the number of freeway shootings across California.

New data released by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) showed the number of freeway shootings in California dropped from 349 in 2022 to 274 last year—a reduction of more than 21 percent from the previous year and a reduction of 38 percent from pandemic highs. “While this downward trend marks progress, let’s be clear: One life lost by gun violence is one too many,” Newsom said in a Jan. 23 statement. “California will remain relentless in our pursuit to improve public safety, reduce gun violence, and invest in smart crime-fighting strategies that deliver real results.”

Newsom established CHP’s Highway Violence Task Force to address the rise of violent crimes occurring on state highways, which surged nationally during the pandemic. At their peak in California in 2021, 447 shootings resulted in 16 deaths and 88 injuries.

The new data also indicates the number of victims killed and injured in highway violence incidents also decreased. In 2023, four individuals were killed in freeway shootings—a 60 percent reduction from the prior year. Additionally, there was an 8 percent reduction in the number of people injured, down from 74 to 68 last year. Reflecting CHP’s increased efforts to investigate and address freeway violence, the number of arrests by the CHP in freeway shootings increased nearly 9 percent from 2022. m

AFTER-HOURS WORK: So far in the primary, Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne has raised $100 in her campaign to be the next 3rd District supervisor and said that she does a lot of the work herself, like printing campaign information, running social media, walking door-to-door, attending forums, and hosting meet and greets, to keep costs down.

Incumbent Joan Hartmann leads fundraising for 3rd District race

Third District Santa Barbara County supervisor candidate Jenelle Osborne is heading into the March 5 primary election with only $100 in her coffers, according to campaign finance filings. She’s raised the least among the three candidates, so far.

“I got into the race late so I didn’t start funding or did any appeals for funds, and I haven’t been doing any aggressive fundraising,” Osborne told the Sun. “I do expect to spend more as we move forward, I just have tried not to rush out the door and create debt.”

Santa Barbara County supervisor candidates running in the March 5 primary election were required to submit campaign finance information to the county Clerk-Recorder’s Office on Jan. 21, breaking down contributions and expenditures from 2023 and between Jan. 1 to Jan. 20. The next pre-election campaign finance filing date is Feb. 22 to show financial information from Jan. 21 to Feb. 17.

Osborne said she’s in the process of receiving potential donations and endorsements, but the current Lompoc mayor added that she created her own campaign literature with her computer and printer, retooled her mayoral website for the supervisor’s race since it was already paid for, and hasn’t invested in yard signs or other advertising—saving her money.

“I don’t think money should be the only reason you win,” Osborne said. “The incumbent has a large amount of funds with the Democratic Party funding the campaign; [Frank] Troise has the ability to self-fund and has the Republican [Party] endorsement.”

Incumbent Joan Hartmann has a current balance of $168,529, according to campaign finance filings—raising more than $11,000 between Jan. 1 and 20. She received a $1,000 contribution from fellow Santa Barbara County Supervisor Laura Capps (representing the 2nd

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

District) and a $1,435 contribution from Scale Microgrids—a private company that designs clean-energy products.

Filings for 2023 show that Hartmann also received $2,500 from Michael Cooney, an attorney and 1st District Santa Barbara County planning commissioner; $3,000 from the Democratic Women of Santa Barbara County; and $2,500 each from two executives at Patagonia. Former state Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson and representatives from Planned Parenthood Central Coast contributed smaller dollar amounts to her campaign in 2023.

Fellow candidate Frank Troise has $2,867, raising $350 from Jan. 1 to Jan. 20 and $8,400 from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2023, according to filings. The Santa Barbara County Deputy Sheriff’s Association contributed $5,500 to his campaign, and he received several other contributions ranging between $100 to $250— including contributions from Matthew Nordby, a managing partner of Flume Ventures in Incline Village, Nevada; Andrew Barrett, the CEO of Banco de Credito in Placida, Florida; and private investment firm Pareto Partners LLC in Metuchen, New Jersey.

His campaign spent more than $11,000 in 2023 and has $5,298 in unpaid bills. He owes himself more than $3,000 in candidate filing and ballot fees and owes $1,750 to Think Right Compliance Inc.—a consulting company that’s also worked with the Republican Party, according to the Federal Election Commission.

Osborne signed a voluntary expenditure limit agreement with the county that caps her campaign spending at $96,000 for the primary election and $96,000 for the general election— which waived a $2,478 fee for Osborne to include information about her campaign in the voter information guide and sample ballots sent out to residents, she said.

“I did it to assist with costs, but it’s also a part of my belief system with spending the money wisely,” Osborne said.

—Taylor O’Connor

State Parks increases number of campers allowed at Oceano Dunes

After months of advocating for State Parks to bring camping reservations back to prepandemic levels, the Friends of the Oceano Dunes is pleased that the number of units available to overnighters at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (ODSVRA) recently increased to 500.

The group is also looking forward to working with State Parks “to improve the overall experience of camping and OHV recreation at the Oceano Dunes,” Friends of Oceano Dunes President Jim Suty told the Sun. Although camping spaces numbered 1,000 units before the pandemic, State Parks Southern Communication Manager Jorge Moreno told the Sun that the ODSVRA was at a capacity of 400 units, which grew to 500 on Jan. 25. However, that number is expected to drop to 300 on March 1.

“California State Parks adjusts camping inventory throughout the year to address public safety, visitor experience, and park operations,” Moreno said. “One example is a seasonal reduction of camping inventory from March through September to protect the endangered shorebird during its nesting season.”

The increase in camping units comes months after a San Luis Obispo Superior Court ruling that ensured off-road vehicle use could continue at the Oceano Dunes despite a March 2021 California Coastal Commission decision to phase out off-roading permanently at the dunes in 2024.

On July 19, 2023, Judge Tana Coates released the ruling, which brought closure to four lawsuits—three from the Friends of Oceano Dunes and one from EcoLogic Partners—against the Coastal Commission.

“The court’s ruling is narrow; it is based solely on the commission’s authority to impose a permanent prohibition on [off-highway vehicle] driving at the ODSVRA under current statutes and the county of San Luis Obispo’s current certified local coastal program,” the ruling stated.

Coates ruled that only a local government can alter its coastal programs, so SLO County would need to amend its current local coastal program to ban off-roading before the Coastal Commission could enact its decision to do the same.

Suty said he believes the new increase in camping units is a direct result of Friends of Oceano Dunes winning their lawsuits. He added that although the increase in camping units is a nice start, the fight isn’t over.

“Friends want the acreage and use limits returned to what they were previously [1,000 units], so 500 units was never a goal,” he said.

In previous Sun reporting, Suty said that keeping off-road vehicles on the dunes protects jobs and local businesses situated in the state park, referencing a 2019 study from Visit SLO CAL that found visitors from outside SLO County who go to the dunes generated a total economic impact of more than $500 million that year.

South County Chambers of Commerce member Jeff Chambers told the Sun that the units increase would bring a welcome boost of economic revenue.

“The pandemic had many negative impacts, including decline in visitors,” he said.

“Resumption of the campsite units helps our local tourism economy by increasing our visitors to where we were pre-pandemic.”

Oceano business owner Adam Verdin echoed this sentiment and told the Sun an increase in camping units is exciting for local businesses like his own, Old Juan’s Cantina in Oceano.

“As a small business greatly impacted by the pandemic, we are very pleased to finally have camping normalized to pre-pandemic level,” he said.

—Samantha Herrera

NEWS continued page 5

News electrons [to] Marin County [from] Lompoc—it just adds energy,” Briggs said.

Strauss Wind Energy Formerly known as the Lompoc Wind Project begins operating Project, the project’s development began in 2001, according to BayWa’s website, but the in Santa Barbara County project was denied by the Santa Barbara County After years of going through the Santa Planning Commission in 2008, and the Board of Barbara County planning process, the Strauss Supervisors later denied appeals to that decision Wind Energy Project is officially running— in 2009. These decisions were also upheld by generating enough electricity to power about both the District Court and Court of Appeals, 40,000 homes, said Errin Briggs, supervising according to BayWa’s website. planner for the Energy, Minerals, and BayWa acquired the rights to this project in Compliance Division of the county Planning 2016 and renamed it the Strauss Wind Energy and Development Department.

Project, which went before the Santa Barbara “I think it’s just really impressive that they County Board of Supervisors in 2020. were able to build this project and have it turn However, one of the approval conditions was operational after all the challenges they’ve been to get an incidental intake permit from the U.S. through,” Briggs said. “To me, the planning Fish and Wildlife Service—designed to mitigate process was very rigorous and between the significant impacts to golden eagles—which caused county and [California Department of Fish the project to go back before the Santa Barbara and Wildlife], we placed a lot of mitigation County Planning Commission in July 2023. requirements for restoration and protection of The commission approved the project in natural resources.”

August, and it was appealed to the Board of The 27 turbines generating about 95 Supervisors, but discussions stopped after the megawatts of electricity on more than 5,000 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wrote a letter to acres near Lompoc is the first wind energy the county stating that an eagle take permit is project on California’s coast, according to expected to be issued for the project—giving BayWa’s website. the project the green light to move forward, “What it does is it adds a renewable energy according to the project overview. source to the grid, displacing a nonrenewable Now, the project includes a software program energy source. By adding wind here, we can called IdentiFlight, which recognizes flight take away coal or gas energy somewhere else, patterns of birds, like eagles, and shuts the improving the power on the grid by making it turbines down to protect them, along with more renewable than it was before,” Briggs said. measures to protect oak trees, the Gaviota Power generated by the station has been tarplant, and other woodlands, Briggs added. purchased by Marin Clean Energy in Marin “They applied in 2016 and it’s County, but the actual electrons been a seven-year adventure to generated by the project are Act now! get this done, and it’s impressive going to be used by the people Send any news what they’ve been able to closest to it, he said. or story tips to accomplish,” he said. m “Electricity is used by the news@santamariasun.com. closest source; you can’t send —Taylor O’Connor

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News

COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF PALOMA ALVARADO

“I wasn’t aware we needed a vest to compete in the rodeo,” said Krier, coordinator and assistant professor at Hancock’s agriculture program. “I went to the thrift store and wrote with markers ‘Allan Hancock College’ because if not they would have been disqualified from competing.”

Krier acted as the coach and administrator in the early days of the Hancock rodeo team— guiding the first two team members and learning the rules and requirements of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) along the way, she said.

“Then we got more enrollment as the years progressed and I started to figure out what was required, Act now! and we needed a coach who Send any news understood those events,” or story tips to Krier said. news@santamariasun.com.

Now, she oversees the academic side of being a college athlete by working closely COLLEGE ATHLETE: Paloma Alvarado has been on Allan Hancock College’s rodeo team for the last two years and with counseling, admissions, will complete her associate’s degree in psychology some time next school year. and records departments. She makes sure the students are has been on Hancock’s rodeo enrolled in at least 12 credits and that each of team for the past two years, them has at least a 2.0 GPA to ensure they meet she said.

NIRA requirements.

“I really wasn’t looking “The students who rodeo [are] like any student to rodeo in college, and one athlete, it’s such a significant part of their life and thing led to another and I their passion,” Krier said. “It’s important they do The Allan Hancock College rodeo team will love it now,” Alvarado said. not only what Hancock requires them to do but “I’m extremely motivated meet the requirements to compete.” host its first intercollegiate rodeo in March because of rodeo, I put my Before stepping back, Krier helped pitch school work as a priority, and the idea of a rodeo team to the Allan Hancock

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR I wouldn’t be where I am if there wasn’t a college Boosters Club, a nonprofit dedicated to aloma Alvarado is in first place for barrel funding college projects. At the time, Krier was racing in the West Coast Region for collegiate rodeo team available.”

Hancock’s rodeo team formed in 2019 to working with Jim Glines, boosters committee rodeo, representing Allan Hancock College’s appeal to more students in ag-related majors and event chairman, to increase the ag program’s recently formed rodeo team against schools like to recruit students who were hoping to compete enrollment.

Cal Poly, Cuesta College, Fresno State, University at a collegiate level.

“Allan Hancock College has never had a rodeo of Las Vegas Nevada, and Lassen College.

While the pandemic caused initial setbacks, team and we come from a pretty strong ag area.

“When I came out of high school, I didn’t and last year the team was looking for a coach [Kids] rodeo from eighth grade to high school and want to do any more school; it’s not for me. I just and permanent practice space, the team has want to rodeo in college,” Glines said. “If a student wanted to be physically active,” Alvarado said. grown to 12 students, has a full-time coach, and can attend Allan Hancock College and stay near “College rodeo opened a whole new door for me.” will be hosting its first rodeo at the Elks Rodeo or at home in those first two years of college while The 22-year-old grew up in Los Angeles and competing in the rodeo, that’s meaningful to me.” fell in love with horses through her aunt, who had Grounds on March 14 and 15.

“I’m super excited to be a part of something The boosters raise money for the rodeo team animals on her property in Acton, she said. She like that. We’re working hard to make it the best every year, he said, estimating that it costs began English riding until she saw the National it possibly can be. Being a part of it makes me feel $150,000 “give-or-take,” he said Finals Rodeo on TV. super lucky—the fact it’s the first one that’s ever “The give or take is practice costs, rank cattle, “It completely lit up a light in me and I decided been had,” Alvarado said. our coach, the number of kids participating, I wanted to do that,” Alvarado said. paying travel expenses when they travel, Her family moved to Sunland in order to help her pursue her dreams, and she began training for Creating the team insurance, there’s a lot to it,” Glines said.

Erin Krier was in a thrift store the night before barrel racing under a professional stuntwoman While the boosters had a steep financial and barrel racer—who “put the bug” in Alvarado’s the Hancock rodeo team’s very first competition, hill to climb, the community responded with head about college and professional rodeo. Now, looking for vests for the students to wear, she overwhelming support, Glines said, adding that Alvarado is in her rookie year of pro rodeo and recalled. he’d like to see that momentum continue.

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Contact ahcrodeo@gmail.com or (805) 357-6324 for vendor or sponsor information, or if you are interested in volunteering to help Allan Hancock College host its first college rodeo.

Gates open at 5 p.m. at the Elks Rodeo Grounds on March 14 and 15, and the college rodeo begins at 6:30 p.m. each day.

“I think our first goal was to simply fund a rodeo team, get them on the road, and get them competing,” Glines said. “We’d like to have 20 to 30 kids wanting to be on our team. We want to build that, and we want to be competitive.”

Competing to coaching

Hancock rodeo team coach Tyree Cochran’s primary focus is to help build the college’s first intercollegiate rodeo, Cochran told the Sun. “I have a small program; I have 12 kids and to host a college rodeo is not a simple feat, especially being just down the road from Cal Poly rodeo,” Cochran said. “Those are tough shoes to fill for a small program like us, to host all of these other students coming to our community and helping us grow our program is huge. We want to do everything we can to make our region successful.”

Cochran is seeking sponsors for each rodeo event and coordinating with each sponsor to ensure they have banners in the arena, logos on barrels, or a table in the VIP tent, and working on creating customized packages for each sponsor, she said.

“We’ve been able to step up and put on a college rodeo, and it’s so exciting. A huge part of that is the Hancock Boosters; they are 100 percent behind the program and they show up to raise money in a fundraiser in August,” Cochran said. “Seeing that community support and knowing it’s there gave me a lot more confidence.”

Cochran grew up in SLO County and has been competing in rodeos since she was 4 years old.

The 25-year-old started coaching in July after graduating with her master’s degree in animal science from Cal Poly—where she competed in barrel racing for the university’s rodeo team and faced off against Hancock students, she said.

“When they came to the rodeo and had their blue vests on, it was really exciting to have a new program in our region,” she said. “I have seen their program start and grow in my time as a contestant. When the coaching position opened up, I was still in school so I couldn’t jump in.”

Now, she holds practices at the Elks four times a week, with two days for roping and two days for barrel racing, and works with Cal Poly to allow her students to travel to use their animals and facilities for additional training.

“I’ve always enjoyed giving lessons and riding horses. I’ve ridden horses my entire life,” Cochran said. “I’ve learned more about how to coach from the students themselves than from me doing the events.” m Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.

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SPOTLIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF ALYCE BARRICK

ATTENTION all former SMJUHSD Special Education Students born 1997 and 1998!

All records for any Special Education student that was born within 1997-1998 and attended a Santa Maria Joint Union High School District school, your physical special education records are available for pick up at no charge from the District Office. All 1997 Records not picked up by June 1, 2023 and 1998 Records not picked up by June 1, 2024 will be destroyed.

If you have any questions, or to arrange a pickup date/time, contact: Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. of Special Education Santa Maria Joint Union High School District 2560 Skyway Dr., Santa Maria, CA 93455 805-922-4573 ext. 4311

ATENCION estudiantes anteriores de SMJUHSD nacidos en 1997 y 1998!

Todos los registros de cualquier estudiante de Educación Especial que haya nacido dentro de 1997 -1998 y asistió a una escuela del Distrito Escolar de las escuelas preparatorias de Santa Maria, sus registros físicos de educación especial están disponibles para recoger sin cargo en la Oficina del Distrito.

Todos los registros del 1997 que no hayan sido recogidos para el 1 de junio de 2023 y registros del 1998 que no hayan sido recogidos para el 1 de junio de 2024 serán destruidos.

Si tiene alguna pregunta, o para programar una fecha/hora de recogida, comuníquense con: Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. de Educacion Especial Santa Maria Joint Union High School District 2560 Skyway Dr., Santa Maria, CA 93455 805-922-4573 ext. 4311

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NEW FACES: Since Santa Ynez Valley Pride’s inception three years ago, the nonprofit has added three new board members to help oversee its events, fundraising efforts, and youth scholarship program.

Love above all

signed by the local writers of the Oscarnominated Pixar Film Elemental; local SYV Pride hosts new fundraiser to grow its artwork; and local baskets, she Pride activities and youth scholarship program business said.

Those who can’t

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR attend the fundraiser but would still like to anta Ynez Valley (SYV) Pride’s first fundraiser contribute can become a sponsor or send in a oneoutside the month of June will help fund the time donation. SYV Pride hopes to sell 100 tickets nonprofit’s Pride parade and festival and its at a minimum, with the goal of selling 200. Tickets youth scholarship program. need to be purchased before Feb. 12. Sponsorships The Love Above All Ball is a black-tie event are ongoing and can be sent before or after the on Feb. 17 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Vega Vineyard and fundraiser to contribute to SYV Pride’s efforts.

Farm—9496 Santa Rosa Road—which features “Pride exists 365 days a year. Pride is not a silent auction, dancing, tarot card readings, reserved solely for the month of June,” Barrick and take-home bottles of wine, SYV Pride Vice said. “Celebrations can occur and reasons to President Alyce Barrick said. donate are ongoing because we are continuously “I am so blown away by the support and the momentum we’ve gained over the past three years; funding our scholarships and the need to protect our parade and festival because security is it’s incredible,” Barrick said. “I’m really proud of this community. After everything we’ve gone constantly changing.” through, people are down to give and support.”

Tickets cost $150 per person, which covers Last year, several Santa Ynez Valley residents dinner and drinks throughout the whole night pushed back against a proposal from fellow and a bottle of wine to take home. Visit syvpride.

LGBTQ-plus nonprofit The Rainbow House org to buy tickets and to find other donation or Inc. that requested permission from the Solvang volunteer opportunities.

City Council to hang Pride-themed banners throughout downtown Solvang. According to Highlights previous Sun reporting, the backlash against the • The Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce proposal highlighted historical discrimination of invites the public to a ribbon-cutting ceremony the LGBTQ-plus community in the Santa Ynez to celebrate the grand opening of Aspen Dental, Valley and garnered international attention. which will take place on Feb. 13 at 675 North SYV Pride’s advocacy and efforts in the H St. beginning at 8 a.m. Aspen Dental is a community took the team to Copenhagen in full-service dental provider offering a wide range August 2023 for the Danish city’s Pride events of services, including clear aligners, dentures, and celebration. Since then, SYV Pride has dental implants, emergency dental care, cosmetic added three new board members to its team dentistry, checkups, and other general dental and is working to expand its youth scholarship services. The ceremony will feature a tour of the program—which gives money to help support new facility, opportunities to meet the team, and Santa Ynez Valley high school seniors with their learn more about their services. Call the Lompoc college tuition.

Valley Chamber of Commerce at (805) 736-4567 “Last year we gave two $500 scholarships to for more information. graduating seniors. They had to submit essays • High school students and adult mentors that discussed how they were allies or contribute across Santa Barbara County are invited to the LGBTQ community. As a board, we to participateMUSIC in the Student Advocacy and voted on those two recipients; we were present Mental Wellness Summit—a workshop aimed at senior scholarship night and awarded the two at equipping ninth to 12th grade students with scholarships to the seniors,” Barrick said.

FLAVOR/EATS leadership and advocacy skills. The summit will This year, the nonprofit wants to give a take place on Feb. 25 at the EnviroHub, 1219 percentage of its proceeds to graduating seniors, INFO Barbara, from noon to 5 p.m.

State St. in Santa rather than a set dollar amount, and give Following the opening session, students will scholarships to four students, she said. have the chance to participate in skill-building “That amount will be contingent on the CALENDAR activities. State Sen. Monique Limón (D-Santa fundraising we receive from now until June. The more fundraising we receive the more scholarships Barbara) and Assemblymember Gregg Hart OPINION (D-Santa Barbara) will share their insight and we can give,” Barrick said.

Ticket purchases and silent auction bids will experiences to inspire and guide the young NEWS for free at youthwell.org/ help fund SYV Pride’s parade and festival or the leaders. Register scholarship program. Auction event/student-mental-wellnessitems include a 20-person tequila advocacy-summit. m STROKES Promote! tasting experience; wine tastings; Send business and Reach Staff Writer Taylor a well person’s exam where the nonprofit information to ARTS recipient can receive a pap smear; O’Connor at toconnor@ spotlight@santamariasun.com. a private plane ride; a poster santamariasun.com.

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COMMENTARY

➤ Canary [11]

Disqualification

of cross-examination—is not “due process.”

Now, I realize that of you just know Ruling Donald Trump stricken from the ballot most that Trump is an insurrectionist and see is a big deal, so don’t take it lightly the technicality of a

BY JOHN DONEGAN trial as a waste of time. After all, The New York emocrats, dispirited after recent polls Times, CNN, social media, and the chattering showing Donald Trump running ahead pundits all say he is, and his guilt is an article of of Joe Biden and facing the unendurable faith among Democrats. But the more thoughtful possibility of another four years of the Orange among you should realize the sort of problems Beast, finally got a bit of encouraging news. One that might arise if the of their “Hail Mary” passes, the use of an obscure political officers of portion of the 14th Amendment barring anyone various states are allowed who has engaged in “insurrection” from holding to disqualify their office, appears to have gotten a little traction, when opponents. It is not hard both Maine’s secretary of state, and the Colorado to imagine a political Supreme Court, ordered Trump stricken from figure in some red state the ballot, although these orders were appealed to making the unilateral the U.S. Supreme Court. Similar actions in other determination that Joe states are pending.

Biden is incompetent, This development must be welcome. After or that his actions with three years of soaring inflation and high gas Hunter render him prices, skyrocketing crime, an onslaught across an unfit for office. It would open border so bad that even the blue Northern be opening up a real cities are squealing under the load, the fiasco in Pandora’s Box. Stunts Afghanistan, and a Democratic coalition that is for momentary political disintegrating over the Gaza war, things were not advantage, such as looking good. Combine that with Biden’s visible Democrat Harry Reid’s deterioration, a running mate with as much appeal “nuclear option,” ended up giving Trump three as week-old roadkill, and the lack of any viable Supreme Court appointments. alternative candidates who could step in, and And, are the acts that Trump is accused of things were looking pretty grim. committing actually “insurrection,” a term But, before breaking out the Champagne and usually associated with seizing power by force, the party poppers, a couple of things to consider: and generalissimos in tanks on the palace lawn?

First, when was the formal determination that You charge him with lying about the outcome of Trump had engaged in insurrection made? While the election, and even created the term “election the 14th Amendment doesn’t require a criminal denier” to condemn him, but is denying that conviction, it also doesn’t disqualify anyone who you lost “insurrection”? Recall that Al Gore is merely “accused” of insurrection or “believed” insisted that he had won in 2000 and used legal by someone to be an insurrectionist. It is silent on tactics to try and overturn the count in Florida. the process. Thus, a factual determination by a Insurrection? Whining is protected by the First competent authority is necessary.

Amendment. Just because you have suddenly discovered that disputing electoral outcomes is The same 14th Amendment that sets out unforgivable does not make it insurrection. this law also establishes the obligation of the Asking an official to “find” more votes? states to exercise due process in making such Politicians cheat all the time, and while it is illegal determinations. Allowing partisan state officers and pretty sleazy, it is hardly “insurrection.” to unilaterally determine whether the candidates The bottom line: To prove Trump guilty of their opposing party should be disqualified— of insurrection, you will need to show that he especially when they do so without a public trial, participated in, or at least knew of, the plans to nor receipt of competent evidence, nor the right

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invade the Capitol and prevent the counting and certification of the vote.

Disqualifying a candidate is an extraordinary act, especially when this candidate is leading among the voters for the highest office. It is unavoidably undemocratic and is sure to enrage a substantial portion of the voters. It is not something that should be done lightly or while drunk on partisan passions.

Still, the 14th Amendment says what it says, and must be applied. If our system is to survive the use of a remedy as drastic as disqualification, it should be applied carefully, deliberately, and with unquestionable fairness.

It must not be seen as a “banana republic” bare political power play, to be avenged in kind at the next opportunity.

That would be a terrible road to head down.

My personal preference would be to see Trump out of the race and a more electable candidate running. Still, for the good of the country, Trump should be beaten at the ballot box, not by political stunt. m

If our system is to survive the use of a remedy as drastic as disqualification, it should be applied carefully, deliberately, and with unquestionable fairness. It must not be seen as a ‘banana republic’ bare political power play, to be avenged in kind at the next opportunity. That would be a terrible road to head down.

John Donegan is a retired attorney in Pismo Beach, who has never been an insurrectionist, but who curses the government while doing his taxes.

Respond with a letter for publication by emailing letters@santamariasun.com.

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LETTERS The Oceano Airport doesn’t serve Oceano

As a concerned lifelong resident of Oceano, I perceive a disparity in the treatment and resources allocated to our community compared to other oceanfront towns.

Specifically, using 60 acres of our precious coastal land for an airport is frivolous and unfair to our community. I believe that this property holds immense potential for the benefit of our community at large, and not just for the few mostly nonresident, wealthy individuals who can afford to use the airport.

That land could be used for senior housing, designated tourist parking spaces to alleviate congestion at the beachfront, and walking/biking trails for the enjoyment and health of our residents and visitors.

Senior and low-income housing is a pressing need in our town. Repurposing some of the airport acreage for such use would address this demand and foster a stronger sense of community by catering to the needs of our elderly residents.

Placing tourist parking facilities would enhance pedestrian access to our beachfront and its businesses thus contributing to the economic growth of our town. Well-maintained walking/ biking trails in those 60 acres would promote an active and healthy lifestyle among our residents and showcase the natural beauty of our town to visitors, thereby boosting tourism.

I believe that most of the airport property should be restored to its natural state and some of it to benefit the citizens of Oceano.

Christina Casillas Oceano

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

Opinion

Grassroots, shmassroots

A

s if the campaign for Santa Barbara County’s 3rd District supervisor wasn’t already a little weird—with Frank Troise holding his own candidacy hostage by threatening the other two candidates to agree to his budget terms or else he’ll continue running— the race’s finance filings are weirder still.

Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne, who surprised everyone with her December candidacy announcement, has raised $100 so far. Former Lompoc Mayor Bob Lingl donated that money to her campaign. Jenelle Osborne for Supervisor 2024’s giant bank account is running up against that of incumbent Joan Hartmann, whose campaign committee holds $168,000, and Troise, whose committee’s account holds $2,400 (although his campaign has $5,400 in outstanding debts).

Troise may owe people more than he’s got on hand, but at least his campaign has raised some money: $8,600 in 2023 and $350 between Jan. 1 and 20. Most of that came from the Santa Barbara County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, so I guess those guys have a bone to pick with Hartmann.

What’s Osborne got to say about it?

Predictably, she claims to be running a “grassroots campaign” and is doing it all herself, she said. The term grassroots generally indicates more than one person is helping. You know, like a community groundswell of volunteers who support a candidate with their time and by doing all the things that need to be done.

But in Osborne’s case, she makes it sound like she’s just doing everything herself. And she’s bagging on the incumbent for actually raising money, which is pretty normal when you’re going to run for a position like county supervisor.

“I don’t think money should be the only reason you win. The incumbent has a large amount of funds with the Democratic Party funding the campaign,” she said.

Osborne even signed an agreement with the county that she would cap her fundraising at $96,000—something she should have no problem sticking to at this point!

“I also want to prove to people that you don’t have to be wealthy and have a lot of money to get involved with local politics,” she added.

This is true. It shouldn’t cost a lot of money, but the fact of the matter is that it does. That’s the name of the game—and ginning up support by fundraising is a lot easier if you’ve got some time in office, some name recognition, and support from the local party.

However, if you’re running as an independent, which Osborne is, things can get a little tricky.

That party money is nowhere to be found, and endorsements are also slim. The union money that helped her out in her mayoral campaigns seems to be nowhere to be found.

While you don’t need a million dollars to run a campaign, you need more than a hundred. And she does seem to know it takes cold hard cash to run in a cold hard race.

Osborne ran a successful campaign against Jim Mosby to retain her seat as Lompoc’s mayor in 2022. In it, her campaign raised a little more than $10,000, and Mosby raised almost $20,000, according to Lompoc’s campaign finance filings from that election. In 2020, she raised more than $12,000 to beat Mosby.

But she’s being economical in this race, she said. I guess we’ll see what happens in the next leg. m

2-1-1 Community Day Celebration!

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

The Canary’s campaign committee is broke. Send dollar bills to canary@santamariasun.com. www.santamariasun.com • February 1 - February 8, 2024 • Sun • 11

Hot Stuff

10-DAY CALENDAR: FEBRUARY 1 - FEBRUARY 11, 2024

ALL THAT JAZZ

The Flower City Ballroom in Lompoc presents PAKT live in concert on Friday, Feb. 9, at 7 p.m. This multifaceted group plays electric jazz, progressive rock, psychedelic, experimental, ambient, and other genres. All ages are welcome to attend. Tickets to the concert are available in advance at my805tix.com.

The Flower City Ballroom is located at 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

—Caleb Wiseblood

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FLOWER CITY BALLROOM

ARTS SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

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

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

CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: LOVE BUGS Create a cuddly companion or two. This workshop is free, and all materials will be provided. Registration is required; for patrons 18 and older. Feb. 6, 12-1:30 p.m.

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

CRAFTWORKS: EMBROIDERY TOWELS In need of some Valentine’s Day decor?

Come personalize a hand/dish towel with embroidery thread and needle, sequins, and fabric markers. All supplies will be provided. This craft is for adults ages 18 and over. Registration is required. Feb. 10, 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. 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.

LIBRARY 101: NOVELIST This workshop is for anyone who wants to learn about the wealth of knowledge which can be accessed with a library card. Follow along as we explore a new Library Resource each session. For patrons 18 and older. Feb. 5, 5-6 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

TO GO KITS: TISSUE PAPER HEART ORNAMENTS Feel the love this season and create heart ornaments out of tissue paper. All materials are provided; one kit per person, for patrons 18 and older. Pick up locations include Orcutt, Cuyama, and Los Alamos. Feb. 5 Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

VALLEY READS BOOK CLUB The Valley Reads is a monthly book club for adults featuring coffee, snacks, and lively discussion. Feb. 10, 2 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

CALIFORNIA’S CHANGING LANDSCAPE: THE WAY OF WATER Featuring more than 20 large-format documentary inkjet photographs of the Golden State, this timely exhibition showcases George Rose’s recent expansive documentation of

California’s dramatic water story. Through July 8 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.

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

GRAVE MISTAKES Book editor Ray’s chances of courting writer and housemate Molly get pushed to the backburner when the duo’s landlord teams up with a ghost hunter and plots to kick his two tenants out in order to transform their home into a horror-themed tourist destination. Through March 16 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

MEET AND GREET WITH THE ARTIST Celebrate Linda Nelson and Steve Andrews’ artwork at The Clark Center in Arroyo Grande. Feb. 10, 2-4 p.m. 805-4899444. clarkcenter.org/about/visual-artsexhibit/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

NEW WORKS BY STEVE ANDREWS Andrews’ artwork will be on display during January and February at The Clark

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 • February 1 - February 8, 2024 • www.santamariasun.com

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.

SEX N’ THE CITY: A (SUPER UNAUTHORIZED) MUSICAL PARODY Tackles serious topics like “Will I ever find the one?,” “Can you ever really be over your ex?,” etc. Join Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, and Samantha on a hilarious trip through New York in the ‘90s. Feb. 10, 8-10 p.m. $45-$65. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/sex-n-the-city-24/.

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

ART AFTER DARK WITH DREW DAVIS FINE ART Calling all art lovers. Visit site for more details. Feb. 2, 5-8 p.m. my805tix.com/. Drew Davis Fine Art, 393 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.

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

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

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

INDEX Arts.......................................12 Culture & Lifestyle ...........13 Food & Drink ......................14 Music ...................................16

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.

BEEHIVE: THE ‘60S MUSICAL Take a trip down memory lane with this musical celebration featuring iconic female voices of the 1960s. Told from the perspective of six young women who came of age in this enigmatic decade and unforgettable time, this new show will have you “dancing in the aisles.” Wednesdays-Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through March 10 $40-$60. 805-786-2440. slorep. org/shows/beehive-the-60s-musical/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

BRIAN O’CONNELL: IMPROV WORKSHOP Improv expert Brian O’Connell will introduce attendees to “The Deconstruction.” Feb. 10, 1-4 p.m. my805tix.com/. Central Coast Comedy Theater Training Center, 7028 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.

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

COBI MOULES: SHOWERING OF SPARKLY BITS Cobi Moules’ paintings feature queer bodies at play, exuding agency and abandon. Symbolizing queer joy, they transcend boundaries, obscuring the landscape as a backdrop to their pleasures. Moules reimagines 19th century Hudson River School landscape painting as queer spaces of desire and belonging. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through March 15 Free. 805-5463202. cuesta.edu/student/campuslife/ artgallery/index.html. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE: KING FOR A DAY Hop aboard the trolley for this whimsical, familyfriendly adventure featuring your favorite

characters from the Emmy-winning PBS Kids series. Journey to the Neighborhood of Make-Believe, enjoying stories of friendship and kindness, with catchy tunes like “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”

Feb. 8, 7:30-9 p.m. $29-$75. 805-756-2787. calpolyarts.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

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

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

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

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.

FLORAL IMPRESSIONS WORKSHOP WITH DREW DAVIS Art enthusiasts and aspiring artists welcome. Find more info on website. Feb. 11, 1-3 p.m. my805tix.com/.

Drew Davis Fine Art, 393 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.

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

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

JIG: A TRINITY IRISH DANCE COMPANY PRODUCTION Experience the captivating Trinity Irish Dance Company, “a pioneer of progressive Irish dance that combines traditional vibrancy with American innovation.” Feb. 9, 7:30-9 p.m. $36-$60.

805-756-2787. calpolyarts.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

LEAH ROSENBERG Rosenberg works across artistic media to spark new experiences of color. Using painting, installation, printmaking, sculpture,

ARTS continued page 13

Hot Stuff

FEBRUARY 1 - FEBRUARY 11, 2024 PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOMPOC VALLEY BOTANIC AND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

ARTS from page 12 performance, and video, she invites viewers to consider how color can be perceived both multi-sensorially and multi-dimensionally. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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.

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

PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden. Second Saturday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $75 per picket or 2 for $100. 805-541-1400. slobg. org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

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

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

SHOWERING OF SPARKLY BITS (ARTIST TALK AND RECEPTION) Opening reception of Cobi Moules’ Showering of Sparkly Bits, an exhibition of queer

COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features sacred places “we all may have visited.” works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 local artists, and artists from southern and p.m. through Feb. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays, galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, 799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, Morro Bay. 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

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, SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS Morro Bay Art Association, Cayucos Makers, ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday and Mea Winery. ongoing 650-888-2168. of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares artbypiazza.com. Morro Made, 490 Morro Ave., Orcutt, 805-937-9750.

Bay Blvd., Morro Bay. BOUNCING BABY STORY TIME Explore JEWELRY, SMALL WORKS, AND ART BY pre-literacy skills through music, STEVIE CHUN Chun lives in a small town movement, and visual stimulation, and between Santa Clarita and Palmdale. She promote a healthy bond between baby is a self-taught artist working in several mediums and many types of formats. Stevie and caregiver. Learn, connect, and grow with other babies and their caregivers. is passionate about shape and color in For ages 0-12 months. This program runs per paintings and crafts and uses minimal approximately 30 minutes. Wednesdays, outlined forms. Mondays, WednesdaysSundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Feb. 29 Free. 10 a.m. through Feb. 14 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com.

Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero St., Santa Maria. suite 10, Morro Bay. CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open LITTLE WOMEN: THE MUSICAL Morro Bay High School presents this production, to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 7 p.m. Free. which follows the saga of the four March 805-934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy—as they St., Santa Maria. grow up in Civil War America. This familyfriendly show is sure to delight young EXPLORING THE TRAILS OF ORCUTT and old alike with astonishing music, Join the Land Trust for Santa Barbara and a heartfelt story. Feb. 2, 7-9 p.m. and County and enjoy the trails that Orcutt Feb. 3, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. Adults $15; Child/ provides. Feb. 3, 9 a.m.-noon 805-448Student $12. sites.google.com/slcusd.

8012. sblandtrust.org. Orcutt Community org/mbhsdrama/home. Morro Bay High Park, 4854 S. Bradley Road 109, Orcutt.

School, 235 Atascadero Rd., Morro Bay, FAMILY YOGA STORY TIME Families, 805-771-1845. relax together at this yoga story time.

SACRED PLACES: A GROUP PAINTING Children and caregivers will be introduced SHOW Features various media from to mindfulness and learn exercises to help painters Hema Sukumar, Joan L. Brown, regulate emotions. Space and supplies Hope Myers, Sandra Sanders, Craig Harrill, are limited. Borrow a yoga mat or bring Nancy Jensen, Patricia Newton, Virginia CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 14 Mack. Includes paintings of special

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

DEAR PRUNERS

The Lompoc Valley Botanic and Horticultural Society hosts its next Garden Care Day event at the Burton Mesa Chaparral Garden on Saturday, Feb. 3, from 9 a.m. to noon. The public is encouraged to join and assist the organization in trimming parts of the garden and digging out invasive grasses.

Volunteers are asked to bring their own gardening tools, including pruners and gloves. Visit lvbhs.org for more info. The Burton Mesa Chaparral Garden is located at 1 Hancock Drive, Lompoc.

—C.W. centered paintings. Snacks and music from one of the Cuesta Combos starting at 4:30 p.m., and Moules will be offering an artist talk at 6 p.m. Talk will be livestreamed as well. Feb. 1, 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Free. 805-546-3201. cuesta.edu/student/ campuslife/artgallery/index.html. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, 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. 805-748-2220. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

ARTISTS RECEPTION AND ATRIUM PARTY FOR FEBRUARY EXHIBITS Come meet this month’s featured artists, be inspired, and enjoy food, refreshments, a tree-filled atrium, and all the businesses in Marina Square. Feb. 10, 3-5 p.m. Free.

805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601

Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. CANDLE “SEENCE” CRANSTON: FINE ART ACRYLIC PAINTINGS Cranston is a self-taught acrylic painter specializing in brightly colored landscapes, abstracts, and space paintings. Since 2010, she has completed over 400 acrylic paintings, with inspiration drawn from studying astronomy, exploring music, and an ardent love of colors. Gallery open daily from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Feb. 29 Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

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

Hot Stuff CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 13 one from home. Feb. 11, 2 p.m. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:309:30 a.m. 805-937-9750. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.

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

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

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.

805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing 805-3432455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

LET’S BLOW OFF SOME STEAM Enjoy a special story time that encourages curiosity and exploration. Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math themes will be explored through stories and discovered through hands-on activities. Come dressed for mess. For ages 3 and up. Feb. 8, 4 p.m.

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

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

THE ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA EXPERIENCE - Featuring Evil Woman-The American ELO Wednesday, February 14 • 7:30pm Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

RUMOURS A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE Thursday, March 21 • 7:30pm Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

NewTimesSLO.com

FEBRUARY 1 - FEBRUARY 11, 2024 PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HISTORICAL HARP SOCIETY

LOMPOC’S BOTANICAL GARDEN CARE DAY Help care for the Burton Mesa Chaparral Garden. Bring pruners, a rake, a shovel and a wheel barrow, if you can. Volunteers will trim along the paths and dig out invasive grasses.

Wear comfortable clothes, a hat, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. Feb. 3, 9 a.m.-noon Free.

805-450-3668. lvbhs.org/activities. Burton Mesa Chaparral Garden at Allan Hancock College, 1 Hancock Drive, Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

CHAKRA BLISS WORKSHOP Guests are guided through a series of restorative yoga poses carefully curated to activate and align the seven energy centers, or chakras, within your body. Each pose is thoughtfully selected to target specific chakras, promoting a sense of inner harmony and well-being. Feb. 4, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $45. 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com/events. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

COMPASSIONATE COMMUNICATION WITH SHERRI SORRO DELAPLANE When was the last time you experienced being seen and understood? Every day around the world, the Center for Compassionate Communication supports the transformation of how we speak to ourselves and one another, one empathic conversation at a time, speaking the “language of life.” Feb. 7, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $100 for 3 weeks; $175 for couples. 805-956-1424. energeticpathways.net/. Energetic Pathways, 200 South 13th St., suite 214, Grover Beach.

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@ gmail.com for details and reservations. ongoing 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

MINDFULNESS AND NEUROSCIENCE WORKSHOP Enjoy exploring the fascinating world of science and spirituality, as the group discusses how reintegrating our mind, body, and soul through the practice of yoga alters our neural pathways and can help us live a healthier happier life. Feb. 11, 3-5 p.m. $45. 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com/ events. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52 Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors.

Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological. Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. 805-547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index. php/chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.

SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second

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

HEAVENLY HARP

The Historical Harp Society presents A Celebration of Harp at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in San Luis Obispo on Sunday, Feb. 11, from 2 to 3 p.m. This afternoon concert will feature performers using replicas of historic harps. Donations will be collected upon entry. Visit historicalharpsociety.org for more info. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church is located at 1344 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. Free parking will be available in the church’s parking lot on Pismo Street.

—C.W. and take home two small refrigerator magnet kits with LEDs that blink. Adults only. Feb. 10, 10 a.m.-noon $5-$20. alpenglowindustries.com/pages/workshops.

SAN LUIS OBISPO Alpenglow Industries, 3485 Sacramento Drive, Ste. F, San Luis Obispo, 805-242-8158.

AGING GRACEFULLY ONLINE WORKSHOP Discover how to adjust your lifestyle so you LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT can become healthier, live longer, and not look GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A profor “pills and surgery” solutions. These online recovery group offering space to those seeking classes focus on the major areas that have peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We shown positive results. Two six-week session understand recovery isn’t linear and judgmentoptions to choose from. Mondays, 6-7:30 p.m. free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be through Feb. 12 Free. 805-489-7359. unity5cities. part of a community building up each other. org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

First Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free.

BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE class is for those who wish to begin a practice MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.

Sliding scale. 559-905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit and questioning youth between the ages of website for full list of weekly Zoom groups 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m.

Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis San Luis Obispo. MUSIC Obispo, 805-270-3346.

QI GONG FITNESS ONLINE Qi Gong is a gentle CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN but powerful way to strengthen body, mind, and TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith FLAVOR/EATS spirit. Great for balance.

Instructor: Gary West, based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. through Adult School, San Luis Coastal Unified First Saturday of every month, 9:30-11:30 a.m. St. School District. An online class. Wednesdays, Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., 9:35-10:35 a.m. through INFO May 22 $90. 805-549San Luis Obispo.

1222. ae.slcusd.org/.

Online, See website, GARDEN FOUNDER San Luis Obispo.

WALK AND TALK CALENDAR Walk and talk with Eve SLO NOONTIME Vigil in the Botanical TOASTMASTERS CLUB Garden each month on MEETINGS Want to Send event information to calendar@ OPINION the first Wednesday. improve speaking and santamariasun.com.

Free garden tour with leadership skills in a paid admission to the supportive and positive NEWS Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, environment? Contact us to get a meeting link just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime. every month, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free with $5 toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire Garden Entry. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis for Zoom ID. STROKES Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE San Luis Obispo.

MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP get together just forARTS the fun, fellowship, and to A safe place to share life experiences with enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, those who have depression or have had and dignity, and independence of retirement. recovered from the devastating effects of Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. depression. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Dec. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 30 Free. 805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo.

Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts LEARN TO SOLDER WORKSHOP Learn how to energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves use a soldering iron and the materials used in balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. soldering, including types of solder, flux, Join instructor Devin Wallace for this outdoor class which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or and soldering iron tips. You will put together Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. 805-904-6615.

Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.

Spread the word!

email before attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10.

805-709-2227. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access.

Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/.

Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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

Free. 805-540-6576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Second Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

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

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

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

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.

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION Learn all about the Lunar New Year while making fun holiday crafts. Wear your finest red outfit for good luck. Welcome to the year of the dragon.

Feb. 9, 2:30-4:30 p.m. 805-528-1862. Los Osos Library, 2075 Palisades Ave., Los Osos.

FOOD & DRINK SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/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/.

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.

FOOD & DRINK continued page 16

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT MY805TIX.COM

THURS-SAT, FEBRUARY 22-24 Various locations in SLO County

Andy Martin Septet Presents “Blues & The Abstract Truth”

SLO Craft Beer Festival

Robert Fripp & David Singleton: Englishmen Abroad

Alex Madonna Expo Center, SLO

Harold J. Miossi CPAC, Cuesta College

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1zginKcYwuuqLOi7Z_YrvuaG4Zknjzbpz

At Her Table

FRI-SUN MARCH 1-10

1/1

Various Locations in SLO County

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

Bishop Peak Sunset Painting with Drew Davis

Improv Comedy Show: with Brian O’Connell

10th Annual Southern Exposure Garagiste Wine Festival

PAKT- An Evening of Electric Jazz

Mardi Gras Mambo feat. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, and more!

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

Orcutt Community Theater: Bed and Breakfast and Murder

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

Brian O’Connell Improv Workshop

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Central Coast Comedy Theater, SLO

Miss Leo and the Handsome Fellers

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 St. Pauls Episcopal Church, Cambria

SweetHART Dance with Zongo All-Stars!

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Cambria Vets Hall

Lorenzo Mendez with Banda BG

Floral Impressions Workshop with Drew Davis

“Murder In The Juice Joint”: A Valentines Day Murder Mystery Dinner

The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Huston SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

Michael Nowak and Friends Featuring Maria Jette

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Trinity United Methodist Church, Los Osos

Fierce Fingerings with special guest Jack Cimo

Mark Hummel’s Blues Harmonica Blowout

Bootleg Comedy Presents: Leah Bonnema

Bears, Asylum of Ashes, Slaughterhouse Effect

By The Sea Productions: It Takes Two, An Original Musical Revue

Shameless: Sex and Body Positivity Workshops

Songwriters at Play presents Kiki Ebsen House Concert

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Drew Davis Fine Art, SLO

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Templeton Mercantile, Templeton

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Paso Lounge, Paso Robles

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Templeton Mercantile, Templeton

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Raconteur Room, Atascadero

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8 SLO General Store, SLO

FRI, SAT, & SUN, FEB 23-25 & MAR 1-3 545 Shasta Ave, Morro Bay

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 SLO Public Market, SLO

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24 The Benedict, Morro Bay

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

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

SLOFunny Comedy Show

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

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

FRI & SAT, FEBRUARY 9 & 10 Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Cass Winery, Paso Robles

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Intimate House Concert, Avila Beach

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Hot Stuff FOOD & DRINK from page 14 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.

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10TH ANNUAL SOUTHERN EXPOSURE GARAGISTE WINE FESTIVAL Find out why this annual event was named Best Wine Festival in the country by USA Today. Feb. 9 and Feb. 10 my805tix. com/. Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall, 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang.

SECOND SATURDAY OPEN AIR MARKET: LOS ALAMOS A carefully curated open air artisan and farm market. Features great vintage finds, handwoven and hand dyed textiles, hand-spun yarn, organic body care products, and locally grown organic eats.

Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-7224338. Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.

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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.

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MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES New topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home. Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. 805-801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/.

Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m.

Free to play. 805-295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

MUSIC

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CELEBRATE WITH RIPTIDE: MAKING MUSIC FOR 10 YEARS The Santa Maria Mussell Senior Club presents Celebrate with Riptide: 10 Years of Making Music, a dance at the Elwin Mussell Center. Grant funded by the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County. Feb. 11, 1:30-4 p.m. Free. 775-813-5186.

RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., 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, 805-623-8866.

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 805-925-0464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/lessons. html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

RON MILLER LIVE Enjoy live music from Ron Miller. Visit site or call for more details. Feb. 9, 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.

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

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

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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.

LORENZO MENDEZ IN CONCERT Enjoy an evening with this acclaimed two-time Grammy Award winner. Feb. 10, 8 p.m. my805tix.com/. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

MUSIC continued page 17

Hot Stuff MUSIC from page 16 PAKT: AN EVENING OF ELECTRIC JAZZ All ages welcome to this performance of progressive music in various genres. Feb. 9, 7 p.m. my805tix.com/. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY Enjoy some good food and karaoke.

Fridays, 5-8 p.m. 805-723-5550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo. , KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly event with barbecue offerings and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, E Y 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, 805-925-3500.

MARDI GRAS MAMBO Featuring The Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Cha’s. Together, the two groups will x. deliver a non-stop Mardi Gras celebration that will have everyone g. on their feet. Blues, cajun, New Orleans soul, zydeco, and R&B from two Louisiana legends. Feb. 9, 7:30-10:30 p.m. $45-$65. eat 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/mardi-gras-mambo/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. ts.

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SAN LUIS OBISPO

ALL AGES OPEN MIC NIGHT Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, 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.

ANDY MARTIN SEPTET: BLUES AND THE ABSTRACT TRUTH The San Luis Obispo County Jazz Federation is excited to present an all-star septet featuring world-class trombonist Andy Martin. Feb. 1, 7:30-9:45 p.m. my805tix.com/. Mount Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks St., 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.

A CELEBRATION OF HARP A Sunday afternoon one-hour performance of Medieval songs, Spanish dances, and European salon music played and sung with replicas of historic harps.

A rare chance to hear exceptional performers and unique instruments. Reception following. Free parking in the church lot on Pismo Street. Feb. 11, 2-3 p.m. Free will donations accepted. historicalharpsociety.org. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 1344 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

ELECTRONIC MUSIC CONCERT WITH ANNE HEGE AND JULIE HERNDON Guest artist Anne Hege will weave together works for her analog live-looping recorder with compositions for live voice, electronics, and video, and Music Department faculty member Julie Herndon will perform a selection from new works for extended keyboard instruments augmented with electronics. Feb. 8, 7:30 p.m. Free. 805-756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/special/. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

HONOR JAZZ BAND CONCERT Experience the rhythm of talent with the SLO County High School Honor Jazz Band, the Cuesta Jazz Ensemble, and Andy Martin, one of the world’s best jazz trombone players. He will be playing with both groups and featured with a rhythm section. Feb. 3, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $10-$17.

Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta, Highway 1, 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.

MARQUIS HILL Marquis Hill, a trailblazing trumpeter, breaks barriers between genres, embracing jazz, hip-hop, R&B, Chicago house, and neo-soul. Experience this Thelonious Monk International Trumpet Competition winner as he creates a new socially conscious jazz vocabulary all his own in his electrifying performance. Feb. 7, 7:30-9 p.m. $35. 805-756-2787. calpolyarts. org. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

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. 805543-3533. slosymphony.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. m

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Arts

GALLERY COURTESY IMAGE BY DEBBI GREEN

ARTS BRIEFS Chumash Casino Resort presents Engelbert Humperdinck, live in concert

Art with heart

IMAGE COURTESY OF THE CHUMASH CASINO RESORT

MUSIC

Gallery Los Olivos presents En Mi Corazón: Amigos y Familia, a new solo exhibition that opens on Thursday, Feb. 1, and will remain on display through the end of the month. An opening reception is planned for Saturday, Feb. 3, from noon to 3 p.m.

For more info, call (805) 688-7517 or visit gallerylosolivos. com. Gallery Los Olivos is located at 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

To find out more about the exhibit’s featured artist, Debbi Green, visit debbigreen.com.

FLAVOR/EATS

to give them all a little personality,” said Green, who, for example, endowed one of her rooster portraits with the title Chloe Barthlona.

CALENDAR “Roosters are male, but I gave [Chloe] a little crown kind of look, and I thought, well, she’s so fancy,” Green said. “Her name’s actually Chloe OPINION Barcelona but she has a bit of a lisp, so it sounds like Barthlona. These are the kinds of stories I NEWS make up.”

Sometimes Green’s animal portraits and their STROKES whimsical backstories are inspired by a book she’s reading at the moment or the music she ARTS Showtime! has on in the background while painting.

Send gallery, stage, “Music titles are great for names. I just and cultural festivities to painted two donkeys, and they’re lovers. I was cwiseblood@santamariasun.com. listening to Guns N’ Roses and thought, let’s add some roses,” said Green, who decided to title the DONKEY DUO: Westlake Village-based artist Debbi Green, who has a new solo show at Gallery donkey duo painting Love N’ Roses.

Los Olivos, captures two donkeys in her painting Love ‘N Roses.

Green’s fanciful farm animal tributes can be found framed on the walls of a handful of boutiques in Southern California. The artist’s passion for painting animals is so well-known among her friends that her phone is often blasted with texts of pet photos COURTESY IMAGE BY DEBBI GREEN from her contacts in the hopes of igniting inspiration for future projects.

The prolific painter also often

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD takes her own reference photos of ows. Horses. Chickens. The farm animal subjects frequently found in animals to paint from later in her oil painter Debbi Green’s works are ones she holds close to her heart. studio. Once while seeing a friend “My favorite thing to do is paint animals,” said the Westlake on the Central Coast, Green visited Village-based artist. Her latest exhibition, focused on farm animal the Return to Freedom wild horse portraits specifically, is currently on display at Gallery Los Olivos. sanctuary in Lompoc. She took A lot of Green’s works were inspired by the farm life that surrounds her, some photos of several horses there as she lives near the base of the Santa Monica Mountains, surrounded by and painted from those images large ranches inhabited by various types of farm animals. upon returning home to Westlake Green’s home is also right on the edge of the northern county line of Village.

Los Angeles County.

Regardless of what kind of animal Luckily for her, and Gallery Los Olivos, Green’s address is technically she’s painting, Green said there’s within Ventura County’s limits. A frequent visitor of the Central Coast, one quality she recognizes in every Green has admired the gallery for a while and was relieved to hear it creature she’s come across. showcases artists that hail from both Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

“When I look at these animals, “Literally, I live on the lake I just know there’s this gentleness PHOTO COURTESY OF DEBBI GREEN and the boundary goes right within them,” Green said, “and FEATHERED FRIEND: Debbi through the middle of the Green named her one of her that’s what I love to paint.” m lake,” said Green, whose new rooster portraits Chloe Barthlona, exhibit at Gallery Los Olivos Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood wants as she enjoys imagining a is slated to remain on display a Beatles-themed beetle portrait. personified version of her rooster pronouncing the name Chloe through Thursday, Feb. 29.

Send comments to cwiseblood@ Barcelona with a lisp.

An opening reception for santamariasun.com. the solo show, titled En Mi COURTESY IMAGE BY DEBBI GREEN Corazón: Amigos y Familia, will be held on Saturday, Feb. 3, from noon to 3 p.m.

Throughout the exhibit’s run, Green’s paintings will also be available for sale, and a percentage of the proceeds will support Guide Dogs of America, a nonprofit dedicated to training service and guide dogs for individuals who are visually impaired, veterans, children with autism, and others.

Attendees of the Feb. 3 reception might get the chance to meet Green, who is open to chatting about the different animals she’s painted and their real-world counterparts—which don’t GREEN IN BLACK AND WHITE: Oil always necessarily line up, painter Debbi Green has exhibited her works at various California-based the artist explained. venues over the years through affiliations “I like to entertain myself with the Malibu Art Association, the GREEN’S PASTURES: Cows and flowers are the subjects of Debbi with stories I make up. I’m California Art Club, and other collectives.

Green’s colorful piece, Dreaming Fields. the sort of person who likes INFO

Tickets are currently available to British pop singer Engelbert Humperdinck’s upcoming concert, slated for Friday, Feb. 9, at 8 p.m. at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez.

The performance is part of Humperdinck’s farewell tour, The Last Waltz, and will be held in the casino’s Samala Showroom.

Throughout his 50-year career, Humperdinck has sold more than 140 million records. The prolific musician’s accolades include scoring 65 gold albums, 35 platinum albums, four Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe, and stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Las Vegas Walk of Fame, and Leicester Walk of Fame, according to press materials.

Humperdinck is known for working in several genres, including rock, disco, and gospel. He released his first single, “Crazy Bells,” in 1959. During the 1960s, some of the artist’s biggest hits included “There Goes My Everything,” “The Last Waltz,” “Am I That Easy to Forget,” and “A Man Without Love.”

In recent years, Humperdinck’s music continues to be prominent through its inclusion in films and television. “A Man Without Love,” for example, was featured in Marvel’s Moon Knight series on Disney Plus, while “I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles” can be heard in the Sony film Bullet Train, and his 1968 hit “Quando, Quando, Quando” was featured in Netflix’s adaptation of The Umbrella Academy.

Admission to Humperdinck’s upcoming show at the Chumash Casino Resort ranges between $39 and $69. Visit chumashcasino.com or call (805) 686-0855 for more info. The casino is located at 3400 Highway 246, Santa Ynez.

Riptide Big Band celebrates 10th anniversary

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RIPTIDE BIG BAND

During its first concert of 2024, the Riptide Big Band will celebrate its 10th anniversary, as the local ensemble was founded in early 2014. The celebration dance will be held on Sunday, Feb. 11, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center in Santa Maria.

Thanks to ongoing support from the Santa Maria Valley Senior Club and the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County, the Riptide Big Band has been providing free music events at venues across Central Coast throughout the past decade.

The 16-piece band includes musicians from both Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties and specializes in big band era music, soft rock from the ’60s and ’70s, and the music standards of the ’30s and ’40s.

Visit riptidebb.com for more info on the group’s upcoming concert. The Elwin Mussell Senior Center is located at 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria. m Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

Scenes of Green Prolific painter Debbi Green unleashes animal portraits in Los Olivos

C

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Film Kaiju fever T

SUN SCREEN PHOTO COURTESY OF TOHO CO. LTD

akashi Yamazaki directs this monster movie set in post-World War II Japan. Ryunosuke Kamiki stars as Koichi Shikishima, a Kamikaze pilot who feigns engine trouble to avoid his duty, landing on Odo Island just before it’s attacked by a giant radioactive dinosaur-like giant. (In Japanese; available in color or black and white; 124 min.)

Glen: Timed to align with the 70th anniversary of the original Godzilla (1954), this new film throws a big budget at the source material while staying true to its low-budget roots. It’s really the story of Shikishima, who’s plagued with guilt for his failure to carry out his duty. After the war is over, he returns home to find his parents have died. His neighbor Sumiko Ota (Sakura Ando) blames his cowardice for Japan’s defeat. When Noriko Oishi (Minami Hamabe) shows up with an infant that she rescued looking for a place to stay, Shikishima allows them to move in, forming a kind of family but one he doesn’t believe he deserves.

It’s a very human story, a story of redemption as Godzilla attacks and a group of veterans join together to do what the Japanese government seems unable to do: defeat Godzilla. We saw it in black and white, which really added to the nostalgia.

Anna: I didn’t look into this movie before we went to see it, so I kept expecting that at some point the black and white storyline would end and we’d hop to modern day, but I’m so glad this film avoided sliding into a different timeline. Instead, Godzilla Minus One feels like an old-school film with the benefit of modern technology—see it in black and white if you can! The monster looks cool, the storyline is full of tension, and its stylized filming keeps your eyes glued to the screen. I’d love it if this becomes a trend with monster movies. I loved the relationship between Shikishima and Noriko and young Akiko. Shikishima is reluctantly loving toward them and soon grows used to their presence in his life, despite his belief that he doesn’t deserve any semblance of love. The film manages to be both a human story and a monster movie. Impressive!

GODZILLA MINUS ONE

What’s it rated? PG-13 What’s it worth, Glen? Full price What’s it worth, Anna? Full price Where’s it showing? Downtown Centre in SLO UNSTOPPABLE: A group of Japanese World War II veterans team up to defeat Godzilla, a radioactive monster bent on destroying Tokyo, in Godzilla Minus One.

Glen: I know, right? Often these kaiju movies are about nothing but destruction and chaos, but this film cares about the inner lives and motivations of the humans struggling to survive. Like the original Godzilla movies, the story is wrapped up with Japan’s experience with the atomic bomb. Godzilla is an unstoppable force that only gains strength from his injuries, coming back bigger and stronger than ever. American imperialism, PTSD, survivor’s guilt, and shame—this movie does so much more than depict Tokyo being stomped to oblivion by a guy in a rubber monster suit. There are real stakes for Shikishima and Noriko, and I cared deeply about the outcome. Even if you think monster movies are dumb, give this one a chance. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Anna: I definitely was pleasantly surprised. I don’t often have much faith in monster movies holding my attention, but this is very much a story with heart. And Godzilla is also a cool, regenerating beast—a timeless monster. The film has heart, doesn’t rely on trickery to keep the audience entertained, and gives us a storyline that we want to root for. Kamiki is a great lead as Shikishima, as is Hamabe as Noriko—those two especially sold me on this story; I really bought into their characters. There’s just enough tension to keep everything rolling quickly, but there’s also a sweet family story here too. m New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

COURTESY PHOTO OF AMC

KEVIN CAN F**K HIMSELF

Television Reviews AMERICAN NIGHTMARE

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2024 Where’s it showing? Netflix Following the kidnapping of Denise Huskins in 2015, investigators and the media won’t buy her boyfriend Aaron Quinn’s story—that the two were woken in the middle of the night, drugged, and blindfolded, and Denise was taken away. This three-part docuseries on Netflix walks us through Aaron’s story as told by the man himself, the people who believed him, and the ones who didn’t.

The seemingly bizarre series of events came the year after Gone Girl hit the big screen, and police and the media couldn’t stop themselves from making comparisons. Was this a plot by Denise and Aaron to gain attention? Was Denise trying to seek revenge on Aaron who had recently been reaching out to an ex? The real story is stranger than any fiction, but one thing never changes: Aaron’s insistence about what transpired and his tireless search to find Denise.

Later in the series we’re able to hear from Denise herself and watch as the truth falls into place. Who took Denise and why? Will the two ever be believed? Fans of true crime will

WAKING NIGHTMARE: When Aaron Quinn calls the police with an incredible story of his girlfriend, Denise Huskins, being kidnapped, police are suspicious, and things keep getting weirder, in the Netflix docuseries American Nightmare.

find this a bingeable wild ride, a story where the reality of the situation is even stranger than you can imagine. (three approximately 45-min. episodes) —Anna

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2021-2022 Where’s it showing? AMC Plus When we started watching this series, I was at first put off. It was a throwback ’70s style sitcom about buffoonish Kevin McRoberts (Eric Peterson), a cable installer who seems to be living a charmed life, and his wife, Allison (Annie Murphy), whose life is a nightmare thanks to Kevin and his crass, careless ways. I thought, “Well, this is going to be dumb.” But then something magical happened. The bright sitcom lighting gave way to a somber tone whenever Allison had time to herself, and suddenly we discovered her inner life and how she dreamed of escaping Kevin. The juxtaposition of the twin storylines was actually ingenious.

There’s also tension between Kevin and his best friend Neil (Alex Bonifer), who always goes along with Kevin’s dumb shenanigans even though Kevin is rude and deeply selfish. There’s also Neil’s hairdresser sister, Patty (Mary Hollis Inboden); her cop girlfriend, Detective Tammy Ridgeway (Candice Coke); and Allison’s old boyfriend, Sam (Raymond Lee).

It’s so entertaining we signed up for a oneweek trial for AMC Plus so we could binge the

ALL IN THE FAMILY: Allison (Annie Murphy, left) is married to Kevin (Eric Peterson, second from right), a crass buffoon who makes her life miserable, in Kevin Can F**k Himself, streaming on AMC Plus.

whole series. Pro tip: As soon as you sign up, cancel. You get your week, and you won’t forget to cancel later and end up paying for a month. (16 approximately 45-min. episodes) m —Glen

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WINE PHOTOS BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

two seemed after they purchased a 285-acre property in California in 2013.

“I got to hear about this mystery project they talked about,” Mazaite said during a recent visit to Los Olivos. “At the time, the story was, ‘Oh we bought this piece of land, and we are just starting to plant and we’ll see what happens.’

“They planted from scratch,” she added. “It was just grass and cows before the vineyard.”

By the glass, flight, bottle The Duncans released Call (805) 699-5802 or visit their first vintage in 2016, donnachadh.com for more info on mainly “for friends and Donnachadh Family Wines and its family,” said Mazaite. new tasting room, located at 2938 San Marcos Ave., No. 101, Los Olivos.

Over the years, the The venue is open Thursday through vineyard has sold most of Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walk-ins its fruit to various wine are welcome. producers and continues to do so.

“We still sell, at the moment, 60 to 70 percent SHORE THING: New York-based artist Chris Buzelli was inspired by of the fruit. We have some water kelpies and other creatures of Scottish folklore when designing really great partners,” Donnachadh Family Wines’ label artworks. Buzelli’s pieces are on said Mazaite, who the display in the company’s tasting room as well.

Duncans employed during the pandemic to kick-start their efforts at selling their own wines commercially.

“In 2020, Drew sent me [wine] samples just BEHIND THE BOTTLES: General Manager Vilma Mazaite stands behind the bar of Donnachadh strictly to get my feedback, Family Wines’ new tasting room in downtown Los Olivos. and I was kind of blown away,” she recalled. “I was just blown away by the intensity of the fruit, and how well integrated the oak was, and how New tasting room in Los Olivos showcases Donnachadh Family the acidity was shining Wines, made with grapes from their Sta. Rita Hills vineyards through the salinity of the wines.”

The facility showcases wines from organic

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD The first Donnachadh grapes produced at a family vineyard owned ROOM TO GROW: Donnachadh Family Wines’ new tasting room in ne mascot found in a new local tasting wine Mazaite tried Los Olivos celebrated its soft opening in November 2023 and hosted room is a seahorse of sorts, but not the kind by Donnachadh founders Drew and Laurie was the 2019 Estate a formal grand opening reception in January.

Duncan. Like the water kelpie, the name of creative anyone unfamiliar with Scottish Chardonnay.

Donnachadh (pronounced don-nuh-kuh) has folklore would expect.

“I was like, ‘Oh my God, this is one of the best California chardonnays I’ve Scottish roots, General Manager Vilma Mazaite AVA, Mazaite and the Duncans spearhead the A legendary water kelpie—specifically in the operation from afar, as all three of them live in tried,’” said Mazaite, who partly attributed the told the Sun. form of a half-horse, half-fish creature—is the Austin, Texas. wine’s exceptional flavor to the vineyard’s steep “That’s how it was spelled and pronounced in star of some of Donnachadh Family Wines’ hillside setting, which can be challenging for Before working for Donnachadh, Mazaite labels, displayed on each bottle of the producer’s the 13th century. It’s Gaelic,” said Mazaite, who vines to grow. explained that Donnachadh is the ancient name was a longtime restaurateur and sommelier 2022 St. Rita Hills Chardonnay. There’s also a “The vines kind of suffer to get through, who became acquainted with the Duncans for the Duncan family’s ancestral Scottish clan. framed print of the majestic beast inside the which brings out the best, I think,” she said, when often they frequented one of her former While the Donnachadh vineyard is located vintner’s new tasting space, which opened in late EATS continued page 22 workplaces. She remembers how excited the near the Santa Ynez River in the Sta. Rita Hills 2023 in Los Olivos.

Dawn of Donnachadh

O

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before pointing to a Latin phrase that appears on some Donnachadh bottles as the company’s motto.

The English translation of Disce pati uva is: Learn to suffer, grape. The motto, which Mazaite said embodies Donnachadh Family Wines’ outlook on perseverance, is featured on bottles of the 2020 Estate Pinot Noir and other wines.

When the Duncans hired her in 2020, Mazaite said their collective first goal was to “get the wines out there in the world.”

Over the course of the past four years, Donnachadh bottles became available from retailers in more than a dozen states, and “a little bit internationally,” she added.

With the brand’s first brick-andmortar tasting room now open, Mazaite and the Duncans hope the venue will serve as both an outlet for locals already familiar with Donnachadh wines and a warm welcome to first-time tasters.

One of Mazaite’s favorite things about getting a spot in downtown Los Olivos is being surrounded by a plethora of talented vintners, including Donnachadh Family Wines’ own winemaker Ernst Storm, whose Storm Wines tasting room GRAB A GLASS: Based in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, is located just a few feet away from the Donnachadh Family Wines produces chardonnay, new Donnachadh space. pinot noir, syrah, and gamay.

MUSIC “The community has been super welcoming. We’re so happy to be part of this area,” Mazaite said. “It’s a great FLAVOR/EATS neighborhood, and we’re surrounded by people we admire.” m

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