Sun, February 29, 2024

Weddings Issue

In this year’s annual issue, you can find the latest dress fashion [6], traditions and where they came from [10], and the vintage cake trend [14]

BY SUN STAFF

A primary election primer [4]

Birchwood, beer, and cheese [29]

Henry V at PCPA [26]

Contents

Wedding season is almost here, and we’ve got some information for those of you still trying to decide what to do for yours. In this year’s annual Weddings Issue, Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor speaks with wedding dress purveyors and planners about what’s on-trend in bride and bridesmaid fashion [6]; Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey from the Sun’s sister paper, New Times, writes about traditions and from whence they came [10]; and New Times Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal chats with bakers about the vintage cake craze [14]

You can also read a primer on some of the legislative races on the primary election ballot [4], about the sword-fighting scenes in PCPA’s latest production [26], and about mac and cheese in a Nipomo beer garden [29]

Camillia

Donna Rose Hennick

Donna Rose Hennick, beloved wife mother, grandmother, and friend peacefully passed away on January 24, 2024 at the age of 85.

Donna was born on March 29, 1938 in Detroit, Michigan to Bruce and Rose Schutz. She grew up in Dearborn, Michigan and moved to California in 1966 with husband Bob and son Bobby where she was a frequent bingo player and bowler and cultivated a deep love for family and friends.

Donna worked for General Telephone company in the 1960’s. She was an avid bowler for many years, worked at Oak Knoll Bowl and eventually became general manager.

Donna spent her last working years at Allstate Insurance.

Donna dedicated her life to her family, cherishing every moment spent with her husband, her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren, sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews. Her love knew no bounds and she leaves behind a wonderful and everlasting legacy of love, compassion and strength. Her love of animals was enduring. She loved Care4Paws and her little dog Poppy she inherited from the shelter. Wanted to save them all.

Donna is preceded in death by her loving parents Bruce and Rose Schutz and son Dave. Donna leaves behind her loving husband of 67 years, Robert Lee Hennick and son Bob

- DECEASED JANUARY 24, 2024

Hennick (wife Kriste), daughters Tanya Gouin (husband Joey), Tassie Hennick, and Tammy Hennick, and numerous loving grandchildren. Her sisters Judy Killian, Mary Lou Koonter, Laura Lambert and Rita Willhite and wonderful nieces and nephews and friends that were family to her.

Donna’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her and her memory will be cherished forever. A “Celebration of life” to be held March 12, 2024 at 10:00am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 298 South Thompson Ave, Nipomo, California. Reception to follow at the Dana Adobe Cultural Center, 671 South Oakglen Ave, Nipomo, California.

BORN 1938, DETROIT, MICHIGAN

• Assemblymembers Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara), Steve Bennett (D-Ventura), and Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) authored Assembly Bill 2298, legislation that would help establish a statewide Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies program, according to a Feb. 21 statement from Hart’s office. The program is meant to prevent fatal ship strikes on endangered whales and reduce harmful air emissions by incentivizing shipping companies to slow their speed along the California coast. In 2014, a voluntary vessel speed reduction program called Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies was formed by the Santa Barbara County and Ventura County air pollution control districts, which grew to include the Bay Area in 2017. The program encourages ocean-going vessels to voluntarily travel 10 knots or less in designated areas by providing small incentives and publicity to program participants. To date, the program has achieved close to 800,000 slow speed miles, reduced more than 3,200 tons of smog-forming nitrogen oxide emissions, and reduced whale strikes by almost 50 percent, according to the statement from Hart’s office. “The Santa Barbara voluntary vessel speed reduction program is a prime example of what happens when we prioritize public health, protect the marine ecosystem, and showcase the beneficial partnership between shipping companies, public health agencies, marine sanctuaries, and environmental organizations,” Hart said. “Assembly Bill 2298 provides participating companies with the official endorsement of both the state of California and Gov. Newsom for their efforts to reduce emissions and protect whales. This invaluable state-level recognition will increase visibility, interest, and support for conservation efforts along the California coast. The Santa Barbara Channel is now a globally recognized Whale Heritage Area. The entire world is watching what we do to save whales.”

• U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler (D-California) announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded more than $510 million to California for drinking water and clean water infrastructure, according to a Feb. 23 statement from Padilla’s office. The funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law as part of a $5.8 billion investment through Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF), one of the EPA’s signature water investment programs. Nearly half of this funding will be available as grants or principal forgiveness loans, ensuring funds reach disadvantaged and underserved communities most in need of investments in water infrastructure. This funding will support essential water infrastructure that protects public health and important water bodies across the state. “Every community should have clean, reliable water infrastructure for drinking water, sanitation, and flood mitigation, but far too many cities and towns across California lack adequate water systems,” Padilla said in the statement.

• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) announced that affordable housing programs he supported in Congress are awarding $3.5 million in federal funds to construct nearly 50 affordable housing units outside of Ojai, according to a Feb. 22 statement from Carbajal’s office. The funding is supporting the Camino De Salud project located at 11432 North Ventura Ave. in the Mira Monte area of unincorporated Ventura County. Once completed, Camino De Salud will feature 48 units for residents who are experiencing homelessness and low-income Ventura County residents. The proposed construction will include amenities like a community garden, charging station, laundry facility, on-site management and maintenance, and common area Wi-Fi. Supportive services, including educational services and case management, will also be provided to residents through local community partners. “As housing challenges have gotten harder on the Central Coast, I’ve worked to boost the federal support our region is getting to lower housing costs and ensure every resident of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties can afford to put a roof over their head,” Carbajal said in the statement. “Projects like this one are a no-brainer—helping those at risk of homelessness or those already without a home with not just safe shelter, but also supportive services that can help them and their families prosper and thrive.” m

State budget deficit shadows Assembly race

Facing a projected $73 billion budget deficit, state Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) adjusted his priorities going into the March 5 primary, Hart told the Sun.

“There’s no rosy way to describe the situation; we’ve had very strong budgets for more than ... 10 years, and we want to do what we can to protect the big investments we’ve made on communities moving forward,” Hart said. “I’m trying to find meaningful legislation that can make progress without being expensive. … It’s not easy to do because things that are significant often require financial support.”

The former 2nd District Santa Barbara County supervisor went to Sacramento in 2022 to represent California’s 37th District, which encompasses all of Santa Barbara County and southern SLO County. This time around, Hart faces off against Sari Domingues, a Santa Maria native and founder of the Santa Barbara County Moms for Liberty chapter, in both the March 5 primary and the November general election.

While the deficit changed Hart’s approach this campaign, he still hopes to address environmental issues and protect state homelessness and education investments in local communities, he said.

“The Constitution requires us to spend the education funding, but as the state budget is reduced, the whole baseline is reduced for all programs, and that’s what is going to be challenging,” he said. “I believe in the process we have now, and I don’t want a political agenda to be interjected into our public schools.”

Hart recently introduced the Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies bill that would encourage marine shipping companies to voluntarily slow down to reduce greenhouse gas emissions coming from ships and protect whales—expanding a local program he launched as a Santa Barbara County official that gave shipping companies local recognition for their work.

“The idea is to extend that program statewide and elevating that recognition to the state government will encourage more companies to participate and the benefits will dramatically increase. It’s a big impact with very little state investment,” Hart said.

Domingues joined the race because she believes that California took a downward turn, she said, and she wants to add a Republican’s perspective to the decision-making in Sacramento.

“I’m hoping I can get up to the state and help introduce bills and change the projection for where the Democratic Party is going because I’m finding out our Democratic Party up at the state [level] has an agenda and it needs to be stopped,” Domingues said. “I need to have a voice. I may not have a vote because I’m a Republican but at least I have my brain, my education, and my voice to speak reality to some of these people.”

If elected, Domingues said she hopes to change the state requirements for school curriculums,

support public safety, and address California’s economic concerns.

“California has the highest tax rates, and California spends too much money. I’d really like to prioritize what this money is spent on because I don’t think they spend money correctly,” she said. “I know there’s committees up at the state level, so I’m hoping to get on these committees to see what’s getting spent and understand why they’re thinking the way they’re thinking.”

Education is her top priority, she said, because it affects communities’ health, economy, safety, and families. Domingues launched the Moms for Liberty chapter after seeing curriculum evolve and hearing from some parents about “what was pushed” in classrooms, she said.

“The state curriculum, there’s one in particular: ethnic studies. Ethnic studies, which you think that’s fine you should learn about the different ethnicities but what they’re doing is teaching negative stuff about certain ethnicities and not pushing the positive of them,” she said.

With the state’s low test scores and poor reading comprehension, she believes the state curriculum should prioritize reading, writing, and math before adding more subjects to schools, Domingues said.

“Not that I have all the answers, but I think I have the tools and the people to help figure this out and to figure it out as a group to make sure these children have knowledge,” she said.

—Taylor O’Connor

Congressional candidates talk immigration, money

Incumbent Congressman Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) is running for his fourth term in the March primary, battling against a Republican and a fellow Democrat to represent parts of San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties and all of Santa Barbara County.

A statement provided to the Sun by Carbajal’s senior advisor and communications director, Ian Mariani, said that Carbajal has helped write new laws to lower health care and energy costs, while expanding access to affordable housing and creating new jobs for the region.

“I have spearheaded efforts to work across the aisle and finally fix our broken immigration system, as well as respond to issues like the rising cost of child care and the worsening threat of climate change. And I have helped bring hundreds of millions of dollars in investments to our region through projects funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and other landmark laws I helped pass in recent years,” Carbajal’s statement said.

Challenger and Republican Thomas Cole is running a campaign fueled by the differences between his policies and Carbajal’s. He told the Sun his policies focus on peace, border control, and parental rights.

“Almost everything revolves around those three issues and that’s what I’m focusing on,” he said. “I’m reaching out to those who may have left the Republican Party and I’m also reaching out to

centrist Democrats that are unhappy with the far left unreasonableness of the party today.”

Cole said he aims to work on closing the borders as thousands of people come into the U.S. illegally. In January 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol recorded 124,220 encounters between ports of entry along the southwestern border, a 50 percent decrease from the month prior.

He added that closing the borders will lead to less fentanyl in our streets, which he said kills around 50,000 people a year. In 2022, USA Facts reported that 73,654 people died from fentanyl overdoses, more than double that of 2019.

Cole claimed Carbajal is working to keep our borders open with a “free flow of fentanyl.”

However, Carbajal co-led the Disrupt Fentanyl Trafficking Act, which was signed into law by President Biden on Dec. 20, 2023.

This law declares fentanyl trafficking a national security threat stemming from drug cartels and smugglers, directs the Pentagon to develop a fentanyl-specific counter-drug strategy, requires the Secretary of Defense to increase security cooperation with the Mexican military, and more, according to Carbajal’s website.

Cole, who owns a data analysis company, has raised $10,370 in campaign funding, according to the Federal Election Commission (FEC) filings through Feb. 15. He told told the Sun he has “about $20,000” in reserve.

Helena Pasquarella, a schoolteacher, Democrat, and photojournalist, reported zero dollars raised to the FEC, but told the Sun she has received $2,900 in campaign funding since the last reporting period. She said that U.S. sanctions on economies such as Cuba, Iran, and Venezuela have caused havoc and increased the number of undocumented immigrants claiming asylum on the border.

“We need to make them documented, and we want to protect them, but I think another really important issue is the issue of pesticides,” she said. “We have 35 pesticides that are being used in our 24th District that are illegal to use in Europe.”

Pasquarella’s campaign revolves around peace. She believes that the U.S. needs to actively promote peace internationally and at home by approving The Peace Building Act of 2021.

“I decided to put my heart and soul into this campaign and educate people about the military industrial complex,” she said. “Right now, I’m focusing on Palestine and the genocide because people are dying daily with our tax dollars, and at this point, we really got to understand that we are directly involved in that war.”

Pasquarella and Cole both alleged that Carbajal was sitting on more than a million dollars in campaign contributions from “military industrial complex” providers such as the RTX Corporation—formerly known as Raytheon—that is a major U.S. defense contractor.

However, Carbajal’s senior advisor and communications director, Mariani, said the largest category of contributors is constituents. The defense industry, Mariani said, is nearly the lowest category of financial support he has received.

This cycle, Carbajal has raised $1.2 million in campaign funding, according to FEC filings, and he has $2.68 million cash on hand. FEC filings show that defense contractors Lockheed Martin and Blue Origins have donated more than $11,500 to Carbajal this cycle.

The top two vote getters will head to November’s general election.

—Samantha Herrera

Santa Maria union gets contract, firefighters seek talks

Salaries and benefits should have been considered when the Santa Maria City Council discussed long range planning for the Fire Department, Firefighters Local 2020 union President and Fire Capt. Matthew Chircop said. “The message we’ve been communicating with the City Council and the public: because our pay is

FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF GREGG HART, PHOTO COURTESY OF SARI DOMINGUES

ROUND TWO: 37th District Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) is running against Republican challenger Sari Domingues (right) to retain his Assembly seat.

falling farther and farther behind the market, we are having a hard time recruiting and retaining,” Chircop said.

During the Feb. 20 City Council meeting, Frank Blackley from AP Triton, a consultant group hired by the city, found in its analysis that Santa Maria’s fire department staffing levels fall below the national and regional average ranges, with 0.64 firefighters per 1,000 residents. The city needs to increase staffing levels by one additional paid firefighter per shift, Blackley told the City Council.

While the report helps the Fire Department take a proactive approach to expanding services, it’s hard to grow and hire new firefighters when the department is paid 14 percent below the local market rate, Chircop said.

“With adding more staffing but not taking care of compensation, it’s going to exacerbate the problem. We’ve been experiencing significant growth for the last 12 years—that coupled with low pay is making it that much more difficult to maintain and enhance services,” he said.

“Unfortunately the City Council doesn’t seem too interested in addressing the pay aspect and quite reluctant over the years to address the staffing aspect, but it’s all tied together.”

The Santa Maria Firefighters Union has spoken during public comment at every City Council meeting in 2024 to advocate for a plan to close the 14 percent pay gap, but the city hasn’t budged from its last, best and final offer of a 5 percent raise in year one of the contract and a 4 percent raise in year two.

“It’s been really strange this time around. This process has been very different. This is the first time the city has taken such an abrupt step of basically ending negotiations in December,” Chircop said. “The conversations since then have been few and far between and that’s been really frustrating.”

In an emailed statement to the Sun, Interim City Manager Alex Posada said that the city is doing the best it can “given the financial constraints” Santa Maria faces.

“There is obviously some areas that we just can’t bridge, and we’ll continue to work on those as we progress through the negotiation process,” Posada said.

While the firefighters union struggles to get back to the table, fellow city employees union, Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 620, reached a new contract agreement that was approved by City Council during the Feb. 20 meeting.

“As a whole, our membership is happy with the contract we achieved with the city, it was overwhelmingly supported by the ratification vote,” Field Representative Nicole Bryant Bryant told the Sun.

SEIU Local 620 achieved a 10 percent cost of living adjustment increase over the two-year period (5 percent per year) and made “significant gains” in medical contributions with the city agreeing to cover 100 percent of the 2025 health insurance premiums for the lowest cost preferred provider organization plan.

“The city team is pleased to have successfully negotiated, pursuant to City Council direction, a two-year agreement with SEIU Local 620. This affects 313 full-time and part-time employees,” Santa Maria Public Information Manager Mark van de Kamp told the Sun in a statement.

Bryant added that the SEIU Local 620 stands in solidarity with the Local 2020 firefighters union as it fights for a market wage. While Chircop said he’s happy the SEIU reached an agreement and it’s been heartwarming to have fellow union support, but it’s hard to see one union reach an agreement while the firefighters struggle.

“To know the SEIU was offered a better deal was really frustrating. That’s a gut-check, that really hurt morale,” Chircop said. m

—Taylor O’Connor

Janet Silveria President & CEO

Unique

Central Coast wedding planners and dress shop owners say wedding fashion is both classic and changing

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

Weddings are about fashion, style, and individual expression as much as they are about bringing two people together. Every person getting married wants a unique wedding— and part of that personal expression comes alive through fashion.

“I love how many different styles there are because there really is something for everybody,” Moondance Bridal store manager and lead stylist Courtney Kent told the Sun. “It’s so exciting to see

what different personalities match with different gowns. … Everything is so different, that’s what’s so fun about this.”

While wedding dresses take center stage when it comes to outfits on the big day, grooms also select their suits months in advance and have them tailored; wedding parties are dressed and accessorized to complement the day’s aesthetic; and guests have to find appropriate attire for any RSVP requirements.

From pops of color to customizable dresses,

wedding planners and wedding dress shop owners are seeing new fashion elements emerge in the wedding aesthetic.

While a lot of people still lean toward white or ivory dresses and a classic, timeless look, brides are also picking out dresses with cat-eye necklines, drop waists, or longer trains to give their look a twist, Kent said.

“It’s something different for everybody; every girl comes in with their own vision, but typically that would mean not a lot of lace and sparkle,” Kent said. “But [there are] more silk or crepe or moscato gowns that just look like you could see them in a picture from 50 years ago and still feel like today I would completely wear that,” Kent said.

Moondance Bridal is based in SLO has served residents on the Central Coast for the past eight years, carrying a variety of designers and sizes to meet each person’s needs, she said. Stylists will meet with clients individually by appointment to help them browse the store and pick a few dresses to try on.

“It’s a full experience; you can bring your family, have that moment,” Kent said. “It’s so fun, it’s a really fun atmosphere. We’re super happy helping girls have the best day ever. It’s a really great job.”

Along with timeless pieces, nude or blush dresses with white lace have also grown in popularity because they give the dress more dimension and color, she added.

“We do have a dress that has all these different colors of bright florals, and that’s been really fun to see,” Kent said. “One major thing is we never saw girls wanting ball gowns in the past couple of years, and in this past year that very classic ball gown—maybe with a slit—became super popular and that was surprising to a lot of people, especially the designers.”

While the transition to ball gowns was surprising, fitted gowns are still very popular, she said.

Check

Bridal’s styles or book an appointment at moondancebridal.com.

Reach out to Perfect Timing by Danette Castillo through perfecttimingbydanettecastillo.com and Brenda Cali at Gatherings for Good through gatheringsforgood.com.

“Another thing I’ve definitely noticed is there’s still tons of girls that wear a traditional veil, but more girls want to be unique as well and will wear a cape instead of a veil, or wings. … It’s almost like a veil, but it attaches to your shoulders.”

Detachable sleeves, addtional outfits, and other changes between the ceremony and reception add a surprise or “shock factor” to the day, she said.

Bridesmaids are tending to wear different dresses in different shades, adding a pop to the day, said Danette Castillo, owner of wedding planning company Perfect Timing by Danette Castillo.

Castillo, a North County native who grew up in Guadalupe and moved to Orcutt in 2021, launched her wedding planning company three years ago and provides everything from fullplanning services to basic wedding management.

“My only goal is to make their vision come to life and for their day to be as smooth as possible,” Castillo said. “There isn’t anything I wouldn’t want to see because every wedding is different and clients come in with so many different visions; very rarely there are couples that are the same. My only goal is to exceed their expectations of my work.”

Castillo said she likes seeing brides give their bridesmaids more flexibility with their dresses, allowing them to wear different styles that complement the individual and correspond with fellow bridesmaids through color shades—rather

DRESSES continued page 8

COLOR POPS: Moving away from wearing the same dress and color, brides have embraced different styles and shades to best complement those in their bridal party.

FOUNTAIN PAVILION

The most versatile building on the Fairpark, the Fountain Pavilion, is the most intimate. The updated design is a wonderful setting for small business meetings and fashionable banquets. The Fountain Pavilion also offers a small kitchen with stove, refrigeration and sink. The neutral paint colors and fabulous wood style floor is a great beginning for any type of event.

The largest building at the Fairpark, the Convention Center, has an open floor plan that is great for large events such as trade shows, conventions, or banquets. The high ceiling in the Convention Center offers great opportunity for many styles of decorations, while creating a spacious and open feeling for guests.

PARK PLAZA PAVILION

The Park Plaza Building is an exceptionally versatile building that can accommodate many types of events, from banquets to large meetings. The Park Plaza boasts a full commercial kitchen with three ovens, two refrigerators and a commercial sink. The simple design of the building allows anyone to create a truly special event.

Welcoming Dr. Ryan Leachman DO, MBA

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

than every person in the same style and color.

“What’s really popular right now is a lot of patterns and colorful floral, not so much the basic white and neutral colors. It’s eclectic; it’s not at all the same,” she said.

Grooms and their attendants are also leaning toward custom suits, rather than rentals or just picking one out in a store, Castillo added.

“The design is just different; it’s not the average suit you see,” she said. “It’s more customized to fit the personalities of the groomsmen.”

Fellow Santa Barbara Countybased wedding planner Brenda Cali added that the wedding’s location is important to consider when picking out a dress or suit.

Cali spent the last 10 years in the wedding planning industry as owner and creative director for events and weddings for Gatherings for Good, she said. Similar to Castillo, Cali’s services range from full to partial planning, but a portion of her proceeds go to

Santa Barbara County nonprofits.

“I think people pick their dress based on venue location and climate. In Santa Barbara, there’s obviously a lot of Spanish-style architecture, and if your venue has that look, it’s nice to have a dress with a Spanish flare to it,” Cali said. “There’s a lot of beach weddings and people are choosing simple gowns. When you’re standing in the sun and the sand, you don’t want something super heavy.”

Churches and religious venues may have dress codes for wedding ceremonies, and it’s important to check with the venue before making any purchases, she said.

“I don’t have opportunities to go shopping, but I’m just surprised when I see them on the day,” Cali said. “A lot goes into it emotionally and mentally; there’s a lot of preparation and details and things you do along the way. Seeing that vision come together, seeing that experience is really rewarding and satisfying.” m

Weddings Issue

Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.

Shane

Joseph

Jessica

Tradition, superstition

BY GLEN STARKEY

Most of us know a white bridal gown signals purity and innocence, but why do brides carry a bouquet?

Why are wedding cakes tiered?

Why isn’t the groom supposed to see the bride before the ceremony?

Why does the bride’s father walk her down the aisle?

Why, why, why do weddings have so many specific traditions and superstitions?

If you’ve ever wondered, you’re in the right place because the odd origins of these and other wedding traditions are about to be revealed, and you may be surprised to learn that many traditions stem from a fear of evil spirits that the ancient world was certain wanted to ruin a new couple’s happiness.

Let’s start with the veil, which hails from ancient Rome. The Romans believed jealous evil spirits would haunt the bride, so the veil was meant to disguise her happiness. Likewise, bridesmaids in matching dresses were meant for both good luck and to confuse the pesky evil spirits by acting as bride decoys. Nowadays, the scariest thing about the matching dresses is how expensive they are for a dress you’ll probably wear only once.

What about that garter around a bride’s thigh, hidden under her dress until the reception when the husband removes it and throws it to a crowd of bachelors? Like the tossed bouquet to single women, whoever catches the garter will be next to

Weddings Issue

marry. But the tradition actually comes from the Dark Ages, when after the wedding, family and friends would gather outside the nuptial chamber to await evidence—dirty sheets or undergarments—proving that the marriage had been consummated. Ew.

Speaking of the bouquet, is it just about holding pretty flowers? Let’s go back to ancient Greece and Rome and all those evil spirits again. Back then, brides carried bundles of herbs such as garlic, dill, and others to ward off jealous specters out to steal the bride’s happiness. The current tradition of flowers traces to 1840 and the royal wedding of Queen Victoria, who carried a bouquet of Prince Albert’s favorite flower, snowdrops.

We can also thank Q-Vicki and P-Bert for the little bride and groom wedding cake toppers. The tradition came to America in the 1920s, and by the ’50s, the couple figurines symbolized marital stability.

You know the one about the groom not seeing the bride before the wedding ceremony? That comes from the time of arranged marriages. The fear was if the couple saw each other beforehand, they might change their mind and back out.

We’ve no doubt all heard the one about the bride carrying “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue,” right?

The old symbolizes the bride’s past, the new the couple’s future, the borrowed something from a happily married woman so good fortune rubs off, and the blue to denote fidelity and love. The father placing sixpence in the bride’s shoe was a token

of luck and prosperity. The Greek culture believes placing a sugar cube on the bride will sweeten the marriage.

Smash a glass or vase? An Italian tradition believes the number of broken shards symbolizes how many years of happy marriage the couple will enjoy, so really put some muscle into it.

Placing the ring on the fourth finger of the left

hand is Roman and comes from the idea that the left hand is directly connected to the heart by the so-called “vein of love.”

Tossing rice symbolized fertility and prosperity, but the tradition has been sort of killed by an urban myth that birds eat it, and it expands inside them and kills them. Not

I Do...

Ms. Cardel Wedding & Event Planner

true. It’s just hard to clean up. These days, dried lavender buds or biodegradable confetti is used.

What about that tiered wedding cake? In ancient Rome, guests broke a loaf of bread over the bride’s head to symbolize fertility, and the newlyweds would share a few bites while the guests gathered up leftover crumbs for good luck. Fast forward to Medieval England, where the couple had to kiss over a pile of pasties, buns, scones, cookies, and the like to ensure a prosperous future, which is the precursor to the tiered cake, the top of which is to be kept frozen and enjoyed by the couple at their first child’s christening.

Stressed about rain on your wedding day? Southern folklore says to bury a bottle of bourbon upside down at the wedding site one month prior to ward off rain. Dig it up after the ceremony to enjoy.

What about the father of the bride walking her down the aisle and giving her away? That also hails from the time of arranged marriages and symbolizes a transfer of ownership. Gulp. Have daddy walk you down anyway. It’s sweet, right?

Why is getting married called tying the knot? Because you’re now bound together. In Celtic and Hindu weddings, the bride’s and groom’s hands

are literally tied together during the ceremony. It’s called handfasting in Celtic and hastmelap in Hindu.

So, you did it. You’re hitched. Mazel tov! Now it’s time to head home, and the groom will pick you up and carry you over the threshold. But why?

In Medieval Europe, the bride was considered vulnerable to evil spirits through her soles, so let’s keep evil out of the house, shall we? m

Contact New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey from the Sun’s sister paper at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.

tradition of a bride carrying a bouquet comes from ancient Greece and Rome, but instead of flowers, the original bouquet consisted pungent herbs such as garlic and dill.

Kinda your grandma’s cake

Vintage-style cakes are taking over weddings with their intricate piping and callback to yesteryears

BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL

They’re petite, draped with buttercream swags and ruffles, often crowned with whole cherries, and sometimes even colored Pepto-Bismol pink.

These are vintage-style cakes—reminiscent of celebrations in the 1980s and before—and they’re dominating the dessert table when it comes to weddings on the Central Coast.

“I honestly did not think it was going to be a long trend because trends come and go, but here we are. It’s going strong, more now than ever,” SeaBreeze Cupcakes & Sweet Treats owner Breanne McLaughlin said. “Everyone loves the vintage piping!”

McLaughlin’s created vintage-style wedding cakes of almost every kind, be it single or multi-tiered, monochromatic elopement cakes that bear “Forever” and “Just Married” signs, and even one that was all metallic silver.

In 2023, 95 of SeaBreeze’s 382 cakes were vintage style for weddings. This year, so far, McLaughlin has decorated 15 of the bakery’s 51 cakes with those designs.

“Inquiries this year have shown that the trend continues with the vintage style, about 25 percent,” she said. “The most requested

is a single tier, all-white heart-shaped cake with writing on top.”

Vintage-style cakes burst on to the digital scene roughly a year ago when they appeared on phone screens as the burgeoning choice for birthday parties. It’s hard to avoid the smorgasbord of icing videos, especially if you have a TikTok account. Online bakers festooned their cakes with oldfashioned piping made from icing tinted with colors that telegraphed the theme clients wanted. They included ’70s disco, matte-black Goth, and even the iconic striped dress Jennifer Garner wore in 13 Going

On 30

“I love TikTok, … that’s where I first saw it,” McLaughlin said with a laugh. “They’re very ’80s, ’90s. You know, that was when you got a cake, you got a lot of piping detail.”

The trend caught Casey Davis by surprise too. The cake decorator at Arroyo Grande Bakery for 31 years told the Sun that the vintage-style wedding cakes demand a lot more buttercream than usual. It’s a deviation from the previous pattern where couples favored “naked” cakes that were barely coated with icing.

Arroyo Grande Bakery makes frosting from scratch, and the ample amount on its vintage-style cakes caused a surge in popularity, Davis said.

“For myself, it’s probably more frosting,” she said. “People could just want to get back to how things used to be.”

The small size of these vintage-style cakes makes them fashionable too. Davis, SeaBreeze’s McLaughlin, and Brianna Nudson of Bri’s Sweet Retreat in Oceano all confirmed that couples often order a small old-school cake and pair it with a dessert bar loaded with brownies, mini pies, cupcakes, or cookies for guests.

Present day vintage-style cakes are also reinstating characters once sidelined for couples’ initials placed on top.

“To me, the vintage is the swag, more the frosting flowers and the cake people on top,” Davis said. “So when I see people who want more vintage, that’s what they bring in: the bride and groom toppers.”

TAILORED FOR YOU: Amy Marks of the Cakery designed

The rekindled interest in traditional toppers on vintagestyle cakes underscores the rise in nostalgia for weddings culture, the bakers said. Some of the toppers are family heirlooms that couples received from their grandparents, according to Nudson.

“They’re trying to resemble the cakes they had back then,” Nudson said. “This trend started last year but it’s picked up for 2024.”

Other bakeries around the Central Coast, including Cake Cathedral in SLO and Just Baked in Paso Robles, also witnessed a rise in orders for vintage-style cakes. The Cakery in Atascadero designed 20 such cakes as a one-woman bakery since the trend began in 2023. Owner Amy Marks said while the piping styles are a throwback to the last century, the shapes of these cakes are now modernized.

Northern Santa Barbara County

Best

“If you see, you know, your grandparents’ cake, … it tends to have shorter tiers, and then there’s usually separation where they’re on some sort of a stand as opposed to being stacked,” she said. “Now I’m seeing it either in an individual tier just for the couple, or colored cylinders, or heart shaped.”

Marks, Nudson, McLaughlin, and Davis predicted that the vintage-style cakes will be in high demand for weddings throughout 2024. Davis said that she’s also decorating more and more birthday cakes in that style. It shows how

cyclical trends are, according to her.

“Just like anything, I think it comes back,” Davis said with a laugh. “I mean, look at how bellbottoms are coming back.” m

Reach New Times Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal, from the Sun’s sister paper, at brajagopal@ newtimesslo.com.

Project Lifesaver

County Sheriff’s Office highlights program that finds missing at-risk individuals

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

Aman with dementia was reunited with his family after having been missing for an entire day, according to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office.

“If you’ve had someone who’s gone missing or prone to confusion or wandering because of some sort of medical condition, [Project Lifesaver] would be a good thing to consider,” Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Raquel Zick told the Sun.

Project Lifesaver is a Sheriff’s Office program that started in August 2008 to help families or guardians find their loved ones who face Alzheimer’s, dementia, down syndrome, or other medical conditions that may cause confusion or wandering, Zick said. When families sign up, clients receive a nonremovable bracelet that has a wristwatch-sized transmitter with a unique radio frequency.

Santa Barbara County has 20 active clients and is accepting more to help families find loved ones, she said. If a participant goes missing, families report the incident to the Sheriff’s Office, and rescuers will use specialized antennas to track the frequency and locate the individual, she said.

“As part of [Project Lifesaver], they take a picture of the person, what their name is, what their address is, what the name of the caregiver is, the frequency for their wearable. We keep all that information on file and then it’s sent out to our computer dispatching system,” Zick said. “It’s nice to have all that information available on a moment’s notice.”

Once the individual is located, the Sheriff’s Office deploys Santa Barbara County’s volunteer-based search and rescue team to help find them, she said.

“Additionally, our search and rescue volunteers are trained on what contact is like for that individual who is lost or disoriented and do their very best to make them feel at ease while we work to get them safely returned home,” Zick said.

Project Lifesaver has a 100 percent success rate with finding individuals, she added. It takes about 30 minutes to find someone who’s wandered off with the transmitter, when it can take hours or days to find someone without this technology.

“It cuts down the amount of time these people are missing and out in the community and possibly scared or confused or exposed to the elements. The more we can cut down that time, the better and the better chances people have from rebounding from that incident,” Zick said. “That’s a very challenging time for the family; it’s hard when you have no idea where someone you love and care about has gone.”

The Sheriff’s Office typically sees families with an individual who is already diagnosed with a medical condition, she said.

“For families who have a loved one they are caring for, it can be a lot of work, especially if that person likes to go on long walks or becomes lost. That can be really stressful for the family in that time we try to find them,” Zick said. “This is a great and 100 percent effective tool to find these people and return them home.”

The Sheriff’s Office does not charge anyone to be in Project Lifesaver or for searches, but there is an initial equipment fee for the transmitter and the first year of batteries and wristbands.

Sponsorships are available for those in need of financial assistance. Visit sbcsar.net/project-life-saver for information. Email projectlifesaver@sbsheriff.org or call Tiffany Hampton at (805) 681-4100 with additional questions.

Highlight

• Santa Maria offers live closed captioning (subtitles) in English or Spanish during its government meetings to improve accessibility and transparency. The closed captioning is for live and replays of City Council and Planning Commission meetings on Comcast Cable Channel 23 and streaming online at cityofsantamaria.org/tv. Channel 23 viewers can use their remote or TV

settings to enable captions. English captions are available on CC 1 and Spanish captions are available on CC 3 in the settings. According to census data, about 66 percent of Santa Maria’s population speaks a language other than English at home. City Council and Planning Commission meetings broadcast live the first and third Tuesdays and Wednesdays of the month, respectively, with both meetings starting at 5:30 p.m. The meetings are also rebroadcast the other Tuesday and Wednesday nights in the month along with 9 a.m. morning replays of the City Council on Thursdays and the Planning Commission on Fridays. m

Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.

Re-elect Supervisor JOAN HARTMANN

“Supervisor Joan Hartmann has championed excellence in fire, rescue and emergency preparedness. She’s earned our support!”

Hugh Montgomery

Santa Barbara County Firefighters

“Joan Hartmann helped balance the budget, restore our emergency reserves, and plan for future capital improvements and replacements, in a fiscally conservative manner.

Harry Hagen, County Treasurer

“Supervisor

John Savrnoch, District Attorney

Once families sign up for Project Lifesaver, at-risk individuals receive a bracelet with a wristwatch-sized transmitter with a unique frequency that the Sheriff’s Office can later use to track the individual if they go missing.

What do you think of Proposition 1?

78% It could do more harm than good—the impacts aren’t clear enough.

11% It’s great. The behavioral health system needs these changes.

11% Adding housing as an element to mental health care is crucial.

0% I’m all for updating mental health legislation, but this is too confusing. 9 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

Beverly hillbillies

Does ‘social justice’ really require that poor people be given the same bragging rights as the wealthy?

BY JOHN DONEGAN

Whoever knew that equity and social justice requires that folks be able to live in Beverly Hills regardless of their financial means? This may the biggest lifestyle boost since the Beverly Hillbillies struck crude and rolled into town.

The legendarily swank enclave of Beverly Hills is in a real lather. The enlightened social engineers in Sacramento have ordered the tony town to produce a roadmap to build 3,104 units of new “inclusionary” housing, of which three-quarters must be affordable to low- and middle-income individuals. The town demurred, pointing out that there is not enough remaining room in town for another 3,000 homes without high-rise buildings and ruining the attractive character of the place. A state housing nonprofit—Californians for Homeownership— sued the city, obtaining a judicial order prohibiting any more construction in the city, including remodeling projects like kitchens and bathrooms, until the town complies with the state’s edict.

The swells of Beverly Hills are in a panic, contemplating an unendurable existence without new waterfall pool grottos and squash courts and with having to endure a primitive 2018 yoga room. Pool houses and home theaters are permeated with dread, while cabana boys tread carefully. I imagine that local therapists are being swamped with anxiety attacks from worthies stressed over being confined to atrociously appointed quarters. Fashionably progressive celebrities, long engaged in their righteous fight for social justice on behalf of “The People,” are feeling betrayed by having the ungrateful beneficiaries turn on them with their housing aspirations.

And it is not just Beverly Hills that is under attack.

Tiny Atherton, California, the nation’s richest ZIP code, is on the spot to make space for 348 new affordable housing units.

B-ball standout Steph Curry is in the forefront of efforts to quash a new general plan providing for development to satisfy the state mandate, terrified at the prospect of fans gawking at him and his family in their pool from neighboring high-rise apartments.

And even my much more modest burg of Pismo Beach, a town that is almost completely built out, is under the gun by the state to come up with a plan that could enable hundreds of new low-income units to get built. Towns all over California are scrambling to satisfy the state mandates but are afflicted with either a shortage of suitable land or the unavailability of developers who are willing to undertake unprofitable low-income housing developments.

Affordable housing is a very real problem. In San Luis Obispo, many of the people who work there and perform important functions are unable to live nearby and are forced to make long commutes from Santa Maria and other less expensive areas. It is in a community’s best interests to have housing reasonably proximate for those who work here.

But Beverly Hills or Atherton? These sorts of addresses are sought after because they are so exclusive, and buying a home there is something that you can flaunt by sending “I’ve moved!” address change announcements to high school rivals you haven’t seen in 30 years.

Does “social justice” really require that poor people be given the same bragging rights as the wealthy? Is there really a right to live in any community you choose, regardless of your economic circumstances, and is it really necessary that every town reflect all income levels?

Sorry, but this seems less morally compelling than calls for shelter, food, and medical care, and more “rich people really piss me off. Let’s slap them around.”

Few of us ever live in our first choice of housing, and many of us have lived in some

undesirable areas due to finances. Currently, I rather fancy one of those massive new estates in Shell Beach overlooking Pirate’s Cove but have learned to live with my disappointment. But should I have to settle? Doesn’t social justice require the residents there to take me in and subsidize a home for me? I’ll go get some moving boxes and start packing.

The harsh reality is that desirable areas on the Central Coast like SLO will always have a shortage of housing, as more people want to live here than the area can support. We can’t build our way out of the problem without destroying the place. Just look at the controversy over the Dana Reserve and San Luis Ranch projects. Where do we find enough space for development without ruining the environment? What do we do about water?

Not everyone who wants to live here can. Availability can be determined by either the free market, in which those who can afford it get to live here, or by the subsidized inclusionary housing lottery. But just don’t assume that the winner of the inclusionary lottery will be you, as there will always be far more people applying than there are units available. It is sort of like winning a home in a raffle. If you win—yippee!— but if not and you still want to live here, you will have to pay more to subsidize the lucky winners.

Inclusionary housing may keep legions of planning bureaucrats chugging away, but it is unlikely to help you. m

John Donegan is a retired attorney, currently in Pismo Beach, who once had a prestigious Beverly Hills address until he was towed away. Send a response for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.

The Oceano beach death is on the ODSVRA

On Jan. 10, 2024, a man was found dead on the beach at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (ODSVRA) by State Parks rangers. The next day his car was found in the ocean. On Jan. 18, the Sun published a letter by Oceano resident Mary Martin: “Too many risks in Oceano.”

What else should I add? State Parks allowed people with their cars, trucks, and recreational vehicles to drive on Oceano Beach, cross the Arroyo Grande Creek, and camp during a bad weather alert and king tides. To be sure, State Parks had positioned a sign waring about the hazardous conditions, telling people to drive on the beach at their own risk.

Does the warning absolve State Parks of this death? No! This man took the risk because the beach was open. If it had been closed to vehicles, he would not have died. Other state parks and trails close when conditions are bad. But not Oceano beach. Our beach is where people are left on their own and die because it is managed by the Off-Highway Vehicle Division of State Parks. As Mary Martin said: The fox is guarding the hens.

The ODSVRA is such a burden on our community and, legally, it doesn’t even include the beach, but its users feel entitled to drive on it to get there. This death is on the ODSVRA. No wonder its management kept it hidden for so long. Close the ODSVRA now!

Lucia Casalinuovo Oceano

I’d almost rather pay for a wedding than vote in the primary election. I might not be the only person who feels that way. There isn’t a lot of exciting stuff on the ballot. The choices are almost predetermined.

But, hey, at least no one is running unopposed!

You’ve got incumbent conservative 4th District Santa Barbara County Supervisor Bob Nelson running against “liberal” Krishna Flores—who’s basically running against development and to represent Los Alamos. You’ve got Republican Frank Troise running against 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann, but doing it in a weird way, while Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne also jumped in the race for funsies, I guess, as an independent without a lot of support.

There’s Proposition 1, a $6.4 billion bond to build housing units and rearrange the mental health care system—but it may take dollars away from local services in the process. With the state’s ever-ballooning budget deficit for the 2024-25 fiscal year, which recently jumped from $58 billion to $73 billion, I’m not sure we need to be taking out any bonds.

And while we do need affordable housing, we don’t even really know how successful all that money we spent during the pandemic on homeless housing has been yet. Maybe we better tap the brakes and collect some data before moving full steam ahead into debt.

In the race against U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara), we’ve got a Republican toeing the party line who wants to close the borders and a Democrat who hasn’t really raised any money

and wants to focus on world peace. Carbajal has outraised both of his opponents put together by about $1.2 million—so I can see the writing on the wall for that race. Boring.

Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) is in the middle of his first term, and he’s already running again. He plans to save the whales—which is really great, don’t get me wrong—and fix this looming budget deficit (although he didn’t really specify how, other than mentioning that it would be difficult) while his opponent is planning an overthrow of California’s education system. Sounds interesting, right?

Wrong. Republican Sari Domingues from Santa Maria founded Santa Barbara County’s chapter of Moms for Liberty. The “parents’ rights” organization is very vocal about being anti-trans, anti-science, and anti-diversity. They want to throw out textbooks that mention the United Nations, global warming, LGBTQ-plus issues, and/or the realities of American history.

Domingues wants to focus on reading, writing, and arithmetic, you see? Nothing else should matter. Ethnic studies? Not cool, Domingues said.

“What they’re doing is teaching negative stuff about certain ethnicities and not pushing the positive of them,” she said.

I’m going to need you to elaborate, ma’am, but my assumption about what that means isn’t good. If you check out her website, which you absolutely should, you’ll see that she believes in the “JudeoChristian Constitution.”

Is that a real thing?

I could go on and on and on. But I won’t.

However, I will vote on March 5, because I don’t have a wedding to pay for. m

The Canary is just a complainer. Send thoughts to canary@santamariasun.com.

Hot Stuff

ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/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.

CRAFTWORKS: EMBROIDERY HOOP

PLANT HANGER Hang out at the library while making a plant hanger out of embroidery hoops. This workshop is free, and all materials will be provided. Registration is required. For patrons 18 and older. March 1, 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. 805925-0994. 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.

WUNDERKIND WONDERLAND

Art Spot on Wheels in Solvang hosts Toddler Time Art Play Group sessions every Tuesday of March, starting March 5, from 10 to 11 a.m. The event is designed for kids and parents to enjoy using the venue’s art studio together. Admission is $35. Call (805) 325-8092 or visit artspotonwheels.com for more info. Art Spot on Wheels is located at 320 Alisal Road, suite 306 B, Solvang. —Caleb Wiseblood

VALLEY READS BOOK CLUB

The Valley Reads is a monthly book club for adults featuring coffee, snacks, and lively discussion. March 9 2 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

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.

SPRING INTO 2024 Gallery Los Olivos presents three distinct artistic voices: Ginny Speirs, Patricia Watkins, Felice Willat. An award-winning photographer, oil painter, and jewelry artist share the spotlight at the venue. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through March 31 805-6887517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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.

NEW WORKS BY STEVE ANDREWS

Andrews’ artwork will be on display during January and February at The Clark Center. Through Feb. 29 805-489-9444. clarkcenter. org/about/visual-arts-exhibit/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY

JACKSON MUSICAL “The gods are real. Like, the Greek gods.” Based on the best-selling book series by Rick Riordan. This musical is a pop rock-fueled adventure brought to life through song, dance, shadow play, and all kinds of theater magic. ThursdaysSaturdays, 8-10 p.m. and March 3 2-4 p.m. through March 9 $25 general admission. 805-756-4849. theatredance.calpoly.edu/ lightning-thief-percy-jackson-musical. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN

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

ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

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.

ART AFTER DARK: LENA RUSHING

Featuring creations by Lena Rushing. Visit site for more info. March 1 , 5 p.m. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

ART OF LIZ MARUSKA: AWAKEN TO BEAUTY Immerse yourself in a place held together by breathtaking sunlight and sparkling water. Discover a stunning painting and awaken to the wonder of art. Connect with beauty through Liz Maruska’s exhibition at SLO Provisions’ Art After Dark reception held Friday, March 1. March 1 5-8 p.m. and March 2-31, 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Free. 805-439-4298. SLOProvisions.com. SLO Provisions, 1255 Monterey 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. Through June 3, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma. org/exhibition/barry-goyette-mulberry/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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-60smusical/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

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

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.

COMEDY NIGHT Professional comedy show featuring local and touring comics. Hosted by Aidan Candelario. First Thursday of every month, 7-9 p.m. $5. 805540-8300. Bang the Drum Brewery, 1150 Laurel Lane, suite 130, San Luis Obispo, bangthedrumbrewery.com.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece. Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-6:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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.

JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. 702-335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

KIDS POTTERY This is a month-long class that meets four Thursdays. Homeschooled children welcome. A Heartland vendor. Thursdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. through March 1 $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

LEAH ROSENBERG Rosenberg works across artistic media to spark new experiences of color. Using painting, installation, printmaking, sculpture, performance, and video, she invites viewers to consider how color can be perceived both multi-sensorially and multi-dimensionally. Through April 1 Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

LEARN MODERN SQUARE DANCING

A new square dance class, with Rick Hampton teaching. Exercise your body and brain while making new friends. Casual dress. Singles and couples welcome. Light refreshments will be served. Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. through April 18 $70 for all 12 weeks. 805-781-7300. squaredancecentralcoast.com/classes. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS

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

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

MOVIE SCREENING IN THE GALLERY A special screening of the cult classic film The Blob (1988) in the gallery, surrounded by the artwork that it inspired. Followed by panel discussion on queer culture, horror

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF ART SPOT ON WHEELS

films and Cobi Moules’ artworks from local scholars and community members. Feb. 29, 5:30 p.m. Free. 805-546-3202. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo, cuesta.edu/student/campuslife/ artgallery/.

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.

SCULPTURE CLASS WITH ROD PEREZ

This weekly sculpture drop-in class gives an opportunity for potters to take on new projects and learn new techniques relating to sculptural work. Additionally, every first Friday of the month, a new project will be taught by Rod Perez for beginners. Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK

SALE With about 40,000 books, CDs, and DVDs for children, teens, and adults.

SLOFOL Members receive early access Feb. 29. Come support the SLO Library. Feb. 29 3-9 p.m. and March 1 -3, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. slofol.org/book-sale/. San Luis Obispo Vets’ Hall, 801 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, 805-781-5930.

STOMP Witness STOMP, an explosive, inventive, and utterly unique percussion sensation for all ages. This awardwinning eight-member troupe captivates audiences with unconventional instruments, from matchboxes to garbage cans, creating magnificent rhythms. With rave reviews and repeat performances worldwide, STOMP delivers a pulsepounding, electrifying experience. March 3 , 7-8:30 p.m. $59-$92. 805-7562787. calpolyarts.org/20232024-events/ stomp. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING

WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors.

To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Wednesdays, 1:303:30 p.m. $35. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo. com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AQUARIUS 2024 Central Coast Watercolor Society’s annual juried exhibit features a wide array of watermedia art from experimental to traditional. Meet the artists at the opening reception on Feb. 25, 2 to 4 p.m. when awards will be presented. Through April 1 Free. ccwsart.com/ aquarius-2024-show. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, 805-772-2504.

BIRD’S EYE VIEW: THE ARCHITECTURAL LANDSCAPES OF THE CENTRAL COAST

Cambria Center for the Arts is proud to present Bird’s Eye View: The Architectural Landscapes of the Central Coast. The featured artist is local resident Tigg Morales. Artist’s reception on March 2, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Fridays-Sundays. through April 28 Free. 805-927-8190. cambriaarts.org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.

COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

CLAY DATE

The second annual Santa Ynez Valley Empty Bowls fundraiser takes place at Bethania Lutheran Church in Solvang on Saturday, March 9, with seating times at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. The event’s unique handmade bowls were created by artisans at Community Clayworks, a studio based in Buellton. The fundraiser’s featured soup providers include Coast Range, Mattei’s Tavern, Hitching Post, and other restaurants. Call (805) 688-4637 for more details. Admission is $30. Bethania Lutheran Church is located at 603 Atterdag Road, Solvang.

IT TAKES TWO This upbeat musical celebrates the risky business of falling in love with 19 original songs and spoken bits that are both funny and touching. Through March 3 my805tix.com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.

JEWELRY, SMALL WORKS, AND ART BY STEVIE CHUN Chun lives in a small town between Santa Clarita and Palmdale. She is a self-taught artist working in several mediums and many types of formats. Stevie is passionate about shape and color in per paintings and crafts and uses minimal outlined forms. Mondays, WednesdaysSundays, 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.

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

PROCREATE MONTHLY ARTIST

GROUP Learn the basic tools for using the iPad app, Procreate. Every month, group focuses on a different way to use Procreate, sometimes starting with a “how-to” video. Join a supportive community and navigate the digital world together. First Wednesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. through March 6 $10. 805-9278190. cambriaarts.org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.

SACRED PLACES: A GROUP PAINTING

SHOW Features various media from painters Hema Sukumar, Joan L. Brown, Hope Myers, Sandra Sanders, Craig Harrill, Nancy Jensen, Patricia Newton, Virginia Mack. Includes paintings of special sacred places “we all may have visited.” 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.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, 805-937-9750.

ANNUAL KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS ST.

PATRICKS DAY CAR SHOW This is the event’s 11th annual fundraising show of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more. Also features local food trucks, live music with Unfinished Business, and a vendor faire with local crafters, artisans, and businesses. Proceeds benefit scholarship and youth programs. Exhibitors, vendors, and sponsors wanted. March 9 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free admission to the public. 805878-1739. kofccarshow.com. St. Louis de Montfort Church, 1190 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

BOARD GAME AFTERNOON Visit the Youth Services Desk to borrow a board game to play while at the library. Play a favorite or try something new. March 3 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 7 p.m. Free. 805-934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria.

COMMUNITY HELPER STORY TIME:

UTILITIES A story time with a member of the Utilities Department. See a trash truck up close. Bring your questions and stay for the activities. In partnership with the City of Santa Maria Utilities Department. March 7, 11 a.m. 805-925-0994. engagedpatrons.org. Santa Maria Public Library (Altrusa Theater), 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

DISCOVER YOUR ROOTS: GETTING STARTED WITH ANCESTRY.COM

Interested in learning more about your family history? Library staff will host a free workshop for adults interested in getting started with the Library Edition of ancestry.com. Patrons are invited to bring the names of ancestors they would like to research to this hands-on workshop. March 2 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. 805-937-9750. oasisorcutt. org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.

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. For more information, please call the Information Desk. March 3 Free. 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. 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 805-343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

MONARCHS AND MILKWEED:

PRESENTED BY UCANR MASTER

GARDENERS Monarch butterflies are both beautiful and important. Learn what steps can be taken at home to both attract and protect these native pollinators.

Registration is required; for patrons 18 and older. March 3 2-3 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. ongoing Starts at $70. 805-8357873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.

BELLY DANCING BASICS Delve into fundamental techniques, including isolations, shimmies, and undulations, while emphasizing proper posture and body awareness. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, an experienced instructor will guide you through each step. Come once or every week. Mondays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. through March 25 $22 drop in; or $120 for all six weeks. 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com/events. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

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

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.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS

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

SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. 805-9046615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

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

limitations of your new role; and various other topics. March 1 10:30 a.m.noon $60; $35 for Spokes Members. spokesfornonprofits.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

PUPPY SOCIAL HOUR Puppies (10 weeks to 5 months old) will learn appropriate play style with other pups, acceptable manners with people, tolerance for gentle restraints, confidence with the approach of friendly strangers, and more. Saturdays, 9 a.m. and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. $25. 805-543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/ training/. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

QI GONG FITNESS ONLINE Qi Gong is a gentle but powerful way to strengthen body, mind, and spirit. Great for balance.

—C.W.

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

CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:30-11:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo.

CITY FARM SLO’S YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM Check site for more info on programming and summer camps. ongoing cityfarmslo.org. San Luis Obispo, Citywide, SLO.

GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free with $5 Garden Entry. 805-541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT

GROUP A safe place to share life experiences with those who have depression or have had and recovered from the devastating effects of depression. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. through Dec. 30 Free. 805-528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

LEARN TO SOLDER WORKSHOP Learn how to use a soldering iron and the materials used in soldering, including types of solder, flux, and soldering iron tips. You will put together and take home two small refrigerator magnet kits with LEDs that blink. Adults only. March 7 5:30-7:30 p.m. $5-$20. alpenglowindustries.com/ pages/workshops. Alpenglow Industries, 3485 Sacramento Drive, Ste. F, San Luis Obispo, 805-242-8158.

LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A pro-recovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. First Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION

(ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805270-3346.

NONPROFIT BOARD OFFICER TRAINING

2024: ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD PRESIDENT For those assuming or interested or currently in the role of President or Chairman of a Nonprofit Board, join to learn: responsibilities, opportunities, and

Instructor: Gary West, through Adult School, San Luis Coastal Unified School District. An online class. Wednesdays, 9:35-10:35 a.m. through May 22 $90. 805-549-1222. ae.slcusd.org/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

QI GONG FOR MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT

Learn and practice qi gong, a Chinese system for physical, mental and spiritual development. This class is conducted outdoors in a beautiful setting, which is the best place to do qi gong, as its inspiration is drawn from nature. Certified instructor: Devin Wallace. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805-709-2227. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

SLO FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK

SALE A large book sale of around 40,000 books, CDs, and DVDs for adults, teens, and children. FOL Member get early access on Feb. 29 (can join at door); public sales held March 1 through 3. Come out to support the SLO Library. Feb. 29 3-9 p.m. and March 1 -3, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 916-847-8987. slofol.org/book-sale/. San Luis Obispo

Vets’ Hall, 801 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB

MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace for this outdoor class which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email before attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. 805709-2227. 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. 805-5406576. 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

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 24

SATURDAY, MARCH

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

An Evening with Bruce Cockburn in Concert

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24

Harold J. Miossi CPAC, Cuesta College

SUNDAY, MARCH

TUESDAY,

FRIDAY,

SATURDAY,

THURSDAY, MARCH 7

SATURDAY,

SUNDAY,

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

THURSDAY, MARCH

SATURDAY,

SUNDAY,

SATURDAY, MARCH

SUNDAY,

Improv Comedy Show:

Improv Comedy Show: House Team TeeBeeDee

Bang The Drum Brewery, SLO

A Comedy of Tenors, written by Ken Ludwig FRIDAY, MARCH 8 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

The Weeds and Stuart Mason

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Cambria

The Pirates of Penzance: New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players FRIDAY, MARCH 8 Clark Center, Arroyo Grande Live Music featuring Hoses

Weaving Women’s Voices presented by Canzona Women’s Ensemble

MARCH 10 United Methodist Church, SLO

Karaoke Y Banda with DJ Jow, La Banda Imponente, & more!

MARCH 8 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Zepp Heads: Led Zepplin Tribute Band

MARCH 9 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Live Music with Bob and Wendy & special guest Paul Griffith

MARCH 10 The Bunker SLO

Line Dancing Night: Beginner and Intermediate Lessons

MARCH 10 Templeton Mercantile

Paint Your Pet: Includes wine, materials, and more!

MARCH 9 824 Main St, Cambria

46 West Wine: Safari Weekend

MARCH 9 Wineries of Paso Robles, HW46 West

Vision Board Making Party

3 The Bunker SLO

Bootleg Comedy Presents: Jasmine Ellis

MARCH 5 Templeton Mercantile

Dinosaur World Live: An Interactive Show

7 Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra

Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

Noise Bloc Presents: Plywood Love, Throw Away, & more!

2 The Bunker SLO

It’s a Punky Reggae Party with Soul Fyah in Da Mix & DJ Lee with The PHd

2 Flower City Ballroom, Lompoc

Hot Stuff

SHORES TO ADORE

SLO Provisions presents Awaken to Beauty, an exhibition of art by Liz Maruska, throughout March. On opening day, SLO Provisions will host an Art After Dark reception from 5 to 8 p.m. to celebrate the new showcase, which includes Clouds Romancing the Bay (pictured) and other colorful works by Maruska. Call (805) 439-4298 or visit sloprovisions.com for more info.

SLO Provisions is located at 1255 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. —C.W.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 22

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.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

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. 805-8016627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.

VISION BOARD MAKING PARTY Get clear on your vision for the future and call in what you are manifesting in a fun, welcoming atmosphere March 3 4:30 p.m. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE

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

FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

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

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

TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

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. 805-722-4338. Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO

TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave, Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

DUMPLING MAKING CLASS Join Chef Garrett of Sichuan Kitchen SLO for his famous dumpling making class. He will be generously donating 100 percent of profits to the Boys and Girls Clubs of South SLO County. For ages 21 and over. Only 20 spots available. Feb. 29, 6-8 p.m. $50. 805-481-7339. bgcslo.org/events. Boys and Girls Clubs of South San Luis Obispo County Clubhouse, 1830 19th St., Oceano.

DUNES AND DINING (AT HER TABLE)

Experience a guided hike through the dunes, learning about the Dunites, a group of free thinkers and artists and poets who once called these sandy landscapes home. Then make your way to the Spoon Trade for a luncheon with Dunites wine. March 3 $45. my805tix.com/e/dunesdining-wine-hike-aht. Meadow Creek Trail, 25 W Grand Ave., Grover Beach, 805-489-1869.

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

GRAND OPENING! DANCE, EAT, AND DRINK! (AT HER TABLE) A fun afternoon filled with dance, food, and wine pairings. With dance gurus Jason Sumabat and Christiana Sunderland. March 2 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $40. my805tix.com/e/black-sheepstudio-workshop. Studio de Myriam, 3563 Sueldo St., suite N, San Luis Obispo, 805-544-7433.

SLO WOMEN OF WINE AND FOOD URBAN TOUR (AT HER TABLE) A wine and culinary journey through SLO’s Urban Wine Trail. March 3 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Duncan Alley, 3183 Duncan Road, San Luis Obispo.

SOBER CURIOUS SUNDAY (AT HER TABLE) Dive into the world of sober curiosity with Jaime Lewis of the CONSUMED Podcast and industry leaders. Enjoy insightful discussions, light bites from Trumpet & Vine Catering, charcuterie by Wren Foods, and refreshing mocktails. Connect, explore, and celebrate a healthier lifestyle. March 3 , 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $65. my805tix.com/e/sober-curious-sunday. Region Wine Bar, 979 Morro Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-329-3855.

WOMEN OF COLOR SYMPOSIUM This pivotal event is dedicated to empowering women of color through insightful panels, personal storytelling, and meaningful networking opportunities. The symposium will focus on developing skills, learning strategies, and more. March 1 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $100. betterunite.com/ diversitycoalition-woc. The Monday Club, 1815 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-541-0594.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

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 continued page 25

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.

RUSS DOUGLAS LIVE Enjoy live music from Russ Douglas. Visit site or call for more details. March 8 6-9 p.m. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, 805-623-8866.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

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

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

IT’S A PUNKY REGGAE PARTY With Soul Fyah in Da Mix and DJ Lee the PHd. All ages. March 2 7-11 p.m. $12-$15. my805tix.com. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA LIVE See this world famous orchestra live in concert. March 2 2 & 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, 805-489-9444.

KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY Enjoy some good food and karaoke. Fridays, 5-8 p.m. 805-723-5550. The Central Grill, 545 Orchard Road, Nipomo.

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

PROUD TINA Described as the ultimate tribute to Tina Turner. March 1 7:30 p.m. my805tix.com. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, 805-489-9444.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

CAL POLY CANTABILE ACDA SEND-OFF CONCERT Cal Poly

Cantabile will present a preview concert of its American Choral Directors Association Western Region Conference performance. Highlights will include works by Hildegard von Bingen, Dale Trumbore, Caroline Shaw, and Cal Poly professor Meredith Brammeier. March 1 7:30 p.m. $20 general; $10 students. 805-756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/. First Presbyterian Church of San Luis Obispo, 981 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.

CANZONA PRESENTS: WEAVING WOMEN’S VOICES Join us for Canzona’s spring concert, Weaving Women’s Voices, which is a celebration of music composed (or arranged) exclusively by women. The concert promises an extraordinary musical journey spanning centuries and cultures and showcases a diverse repertoire. March 10 3-5 p.m. $10-$35. 805-242-6065. canzonawomen.org. San Luis Obispo United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.

CUESTA MUSIC FACULTY CONCERT The Cuesta Music Faculty Concert is a treasured San Luis Obispo tradition. The talented Music Faculty perform to raise money for the music scholarship fund, and this year marks 20 years of dedication to student opportunity and success. March 3 , 3 p.m. $10-$50. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

LIVE MUSIC AT KROBAR Enjoy live music at Krobar, which showcases local, talented artists of all music genres. Kick-off your weekend right, grab your favorite seasonal craft cocktail, and vibe to the sounds of the night. Follow on Instagram to find out who is playing. Every other Friday, 6-9 p.m. and Every other Saturday, 6-9 p.m. through March 30 Free entry. 833-5762271. krobardistillery.com/events. Krobar Craft Distillery, 1701 Monterey St., 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.

PLYWOOD LOVE AND MORE A night of punk rock music, featuring Plywood Love, Dire, Throw Away, Tiny Plastic Everything. All ages welcome. Presented by Noise Bloc. Tickets are limited. March 2 , 6 p.m. $10. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, 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. March 2 , 7:30-9:30 p.m. $12-$82. 805-543-3533. slosymphony.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

SLO SYMPHONY: BARTOK AND BEETHOVEN Violin virtuoso and Arroyo Grande resident Gilles Apap returns to perform Beethoven’s Violin Concerto, and Bartok’s Violin Rhapsody No.1. The Hungarian spirit continues with Leo Weiner’s

ARTS BRIEFS

Lompoc Pops Orchestra teams up with local Elvis Presley impersonator

Tony Costa, a prolific Elvis Presley tribute artist, will join the Lompoc Pops Orchestra for a special concert at Lompoc’s First United Methodist Church on Sunday, March 17, at 4 p.m.

During the first half of the concert, the orchestra will perform a variety of pop selections from the ’40s, ’50s, ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s, while the second half will be dedicated to covering Presley classics with Costa, according to press materials.

Costa is a Central Coast resident who first portrayed Presley in 2015 during Cuesta College’s production of Refried Elvis in San Luis Obispo. Since then, the local entertainer and actor has made numerous appearances in the role at various events—including the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival—and venues over the years.

Attendees of the upcoming concert are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, as the orchestra expects seats to sell out quickly, according to press materials. Admission is $25 for adults and $5 for full-time students with student ID. Entry is free for children ages 12 and under. Discounts are available to active duty military.

Call (805) 733-1796 or visit lompocpopsorchestra.com for more details. The First United Methodist Church is located at 925 N. F St., Lompoc.

Allan Hancock College art instructors display works in new faculty exhibit

Ann Foxworthy Gallery presents Allan Hancock College’s Fine Arts Faculty Art Show, currently on display through March 14. Admission to view the exhibit is free and it’s open to the public.

The show’s featured media includes painting, installation work, photography, ceramics, digital video, and more.

“As artists, our faculty have their own art-making practices both within their scope of teaching and beyond,” Ann Foxworthy Gallery Director Laura-Susan Thomas said in press materials. “This exhibit showcases the variety of their works and the breadth of their talents.”

The exhibit’s participating faculty members are Thomas, Adrienne Allebe, Shane Anderson, Gregory Byard, Nichole Dechaine, Kris Doe, Sian Geraghty, John Hood, Lauren Rayburn, Mike McNutt, Brandon Smith, Patrick Trimbath, Jill Thayer, Mark Velazquez, and Nancy Jo Ward.

For more info on the exhibit and other programs hosted by Ann Foxworthy Gallery, visit hancockcollege.edu/gallery.

The gallery is located inside the Academic Resource Center (Building L) on Allan Hancock College’s Santa Maria campus and is open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. m

Arts Briefs is compiled by Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood. Send information to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

V for valorous

PCPA stages Henry V with regal flair and killer combat choreography

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

There’s nothing casual about the casualties of war in the Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s (PCPA) gripping rendition of Henry V Visions and sounds of clashing swords and booming battle cries often break weighty moments of ominous tension between feuding blue bloods in this Shakespeare retelling, currently onstage at Santa Maria’s Marian Theatre through March 3.

Inhabiting the title role, PCPA’s Associate Artistic Director Emily Trask fits easily into Henry’s crown and properly portrays the English monarch as a seemingly fearless force to be reckoned with.

Sometimes her eyes do almost as much talking as Shakespeare’s dialogue. While reading tally sheets of lives lost on both sides during England’s invasion of France, Trask’s contemplative gaze is meditative, mournful, and without caricature.

That being said, Trask is adept during instances of comic relief as well, like Henry’s interactions with French princess Katherine (Molly Dobbs). Neither of the duo knows the other’s language too well, but their sitcom-esque translation woes offer a much welcomed reprieve from the show’s

dire depiction of war and its consequences.

Throughout the play, I couldn’t help but be reminded of another of PCPA’s expert takes on Shakespeare. In the spring of 2020, less than a week before the pandemic shutdown, PCPA opened its tragically short-lived production of Julius Caesar. I felt sorry for the thespians whose run was cut short, but happy for those who were able to experience the phenomenal show before its swift closure.

PCPA’s Artistic Director Mark Booher helmed Julius Caesar, and he’s back in the director’s chair for Henry V. Like his brooding interpretation of Caesar, Booher’s Henry V feels mythic yet intimate and employs some anachronistic flourishes without altering Shakespeare’s text or retrofitting the setting to modern day.

Some characters, like the herald Montjoy (Andrew Philpot), sport jeans, and I doubt that’s a wardrobe malfunction. Denim was prevalent in PCPA’s Julius Caesar too, with costumes by Eddy L. Barrows, while Klara Wilson designed the attire worn in Henry V. Booher isn’t the only common factor between the two shows though, as Philpot played Cassius in Julius Caesar, which also featured Peter S. Hadres—the swordwielding Pistol in Henry V—as Brutus. Like Trask, Hadres is a master of juggling instances of humor and grief.

The show’s entire cast is admirable. Other standouts include a pair of Henry’s strategic captains—George Walker as Fluellen and the Sun’s own Marketing and Events Coordinator Michael Gould as Gower. Between the duo, Gould is a capably earnest foil for Walker, who puts on

Fifth time’s the charm

The Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA) presents its production of Henry V through March 3 at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria. Visit pcpa.org or facebook.com/ pacificconservatorytheatre for tickets and show times. For more info, call the PCPA box office at (805) 922-8313.

PCPA’s next show, Wolf at the Door, is scheduled to open on Feb. 29 and run through March 17, in the Severson Theatre. Both the Marian Theatre and the Severson Theatre are located at Allan Hancock College, at 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.

a comedically thick Welsh accent.

Fluellen and Gower are memorable fighters during the play’s immersive battle sequences, carefully arranged by Walker, who is credited as the show’s fight director, with support from assistant choreographers Dobbs and Alexander Pimentel and fight captains Nolan LeMay, Griffin Hanson, and Jason Wells.

Without spilling an ounce of blood visually, the show’s cast and crew illustrate duels and death blows with more creative means—crowding the Marian Theatre’s thrust stage with bodies engaged in combat under hellish red lighting.

Speaking of the show’s lighting, it’s a character in itself throughout Henry V. Lighting Designer Cody Soper and Assistant Lighting Designer Krys Newbury often splash the stage with shades of red and blue, in conjunction with the English army’s red uniforms and French army’s blue uniforms. No matter which team you side with, don’t be surprised to find yourself rooting for PCPA to tackle Shakespeare’s works more often. m

Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood wants a Henry V-themed sports jersey. Send comments to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

LOST IN TRANSLATION:

PHOTO COURTESY OF CONNIE BARLOW

RED COATS: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s Henry V features several combat sequences, choreographed by fight director George Walker, who also stars as Captain Fluellen in the show.

French princess Katherine (Molly Dobbs, left) doesn’t speak much English, but that doesn’t slow down King Henry V’s (Emily Trask, right) romantic advances toward her, in the Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s Henry V

WITH GREAT POWER: King Henry V (Emily Trask) leads the English army into a war with France, in the Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s new take on William Shakespeare’s Henry V, currently onstage at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria.

FILE PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM

THRONE ZONE: King Henry V’s (Emily Trask, center) cabinet includes his uncle, the Duke of Exeter (Erik Stein, left), and the Archbishop of Canterbury (Don Stewart, right), in the Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s Henry V

WIN TWO TICKETS TO A CAL POLY BASKETBALL HOME GAME

Various Dates & Times Baggett Stadium, Cal Poly,

RUMOURS

A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE

Thursday, March 21 • 7:30pm

Clark Center, Arroyo Grande

CAL POLY ARTS PRESENTS:

SMALL ISLAND BIG SONG

Friday, April 26 • 7:30pm

Performing Arts Center, SLO

SLO SYMPHONY CLASSICS V TCHAIKOVSKY, SAINT SAENS, BRAMMEIER

Saturday, May 4 • 7:30pm

Performing Arts Center, SLO

Ethan Coen directs this queer comedy co-written with his wife, Tricia Cooke, about free-spirited Jamie (Margaret Qualley) and her uptight friend, Marian (Geraldine Viswanathan), who decide to take an impromptu road trip to Tallahassee, but they inadvertently take a “drive-away” car—a vehicle the driver agrees to transport like a courier to avoid the expense of renting a car—meant for someone else, and soon they’re pursued by a cadre of inept criminals the car was meant for. (84 min.)

its own cleverness, the second act felt like filler. By the third act, I began to like the film more, but overall, it’s an underwhelming effort from a Coen brother.

Glen: If you’re in the mood for a lightweight absurdist comedy about odd-couple lesbians, their impromptu crime caper, its connection to political corruption, and a road trip that feels like it goes nowhere, this might do the trick. I, however, was expecting something more substantial than this amuse-bouche. Part of the film’s limited fun is the MacGuffin at its center, a silver attaché case Jamie and Marian find in their drive-away car. If you’ve seen the trailer, you’ve seen them open the case in a café and gaze in wonder at its contents. Unlike most MacGuffins (think Marsellus Wallace’s attaché in Pulp Fiction), we learn what’s inside, and it’s central to the story, but revealing its contents would ruin it for you. It’s right about then in the plot that the film begins to perk up. Its first act felt overwritten and too enraptured with

Television & Film Reviews

BOY SWALLOWS UNIVERSE

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2024

Where’s it showing? Netflix

What’s it rated? R

What’s it worth, Glen? Matinee

What’s it worth, Anna? Matinee

Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards

RPX Santa Maria,

Anna: While filled with charm, Jamie is an exhausting character. She’s very fly-by-theseat-of-her-pants, especially in comparison to Marian, whose reserved nature sits on the surface of a pot ready to boil over. You’re right—the first half felt long, but luckily it picked up and had a fun back half. This definitely had some of the Coen brand going for it, but it lacked a bit in comparison to the films the Coen brothers made working as a duo. There were also moments of psychedelic animation that I guess I can tie to a story element, but they just sort of felt like unconnected filler. I liked the story and the adventure the two were on, I just didn’t love it. I do have to mention Beanie Feldstein as Sukie, Jamie’s ex-girlfriend and a cop, and the two bumbling fools (Joey Slotnick and CJ Wilson) tasked with finding Jamie and Marian—or at least the attaché case they’re driving around. These characters filled in a lot of the fun in the storyline.

Glen: Feldstein is a highlight, to be sure. She’s got great comic timing. The two mismatched leads are also engaging in their different ways, and it’s satisfying to watch their relationship deepen. And the cast has some heavy hitters,

including Pedro Pascal (briefly in the first act), Bill Camp (in a role whose thread is left dangling), and Matt Damon (briefly in the last act). I wish the film had more depth, but it seemed to move from one moment to the next without purpose. I mean, what was the point of the goons looking for the girls in Slappy’s juke joint? Was it just for color, same as the psychedelic montages that include a cameo by Miley Cyrus? If you’re going to see it, my advice is to smoke some weed first.

Anna: Yep, this is the perfect time to pop that edible and head to the theater. It’s funny and

refuses to pretend it’s something serious, and I’m OK with that. It did feel like the cameos were there for a bit of show, and yes, Pascal and Damon were the setup and conclusion to the film, but the heart of it rested with Jackie— and, I’ll argue, even more with Miriam, who experiences the most self-discovery. This film works if you need a quick and quirky road trip romp. m

New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

Based on the bestselling novel by Trenton Dalton, this family dramedy centers on precocious Eli Bell (Felix Cameron), a 13-year-old living with his selectively nonverbal older brother, Gus (Lee Tiger Halley), mother Frances (Phoebe Tonkin), and stepfather Lyle (Travis Fimmel), who struggles to provide for the family with a job at a prosthetics factory and a drug-dealing side hustle. They love each other, but things are tough. We see Eli’s dangerous world through his childish wide-eyed wonder.

Essentially, this is Eli’s coming-of-age story, and we get flashbacks of him as a 6-year-old (Auden Ryan), and the story proceeds until he turns 17 (Zac Burgess) and sets his sights on becoming a journalist. In between, he encounters drug dealers, dirty cops, and criminals who act as mentors. Co-stars include some of Australia’s finest, such as Simon Baker and Bryan Brown.

This is far and away one of the best new miniseries I’ve seen recently, with humor, heart, and a lot of surprises.

LOVER, STALKER, KILLER

What’s it rated? Not rated

When? 2024

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Nothing ever goes wrong in a love triangle, right? There’s a lot of true crime out there, but even in a world filled with stories of love gone wrong, secret identities, and crazy exes, the story of Dave Kroupa, Cari Farver, and Liz Goyler hits high on the scale of absolutely bonkers.

This is a story I was well familiar with, having heard it told through various podcasts and articles. However, seeing Kroupa recount the madness behind what was eventually found out to be the murder of Farver is mesmerizing. Farver started out as a casual sexual and dating partner to Kroupa, but when he started getting serious with Goyler, Farver seemingly went off the rails and became a dogged stalker who spent years making Kroupa’s and Goyler’s lives miserable.

Moving between despair and optimism, Eli and his family experience real tragedy, but in the end, it’s a story of triumph. Absolutely binge-worthy, with twists and turns and colorful characters. (seven 49- to 77-min. episodes)

—Glen

Doesn’t seem too off the wall yet, right? Well, buckle up. As the investigation into Farver and her whereabouts continues, the story is soon turned on its head, and in reallife horror film manner, the call is seemingly coming from inside the house. Mixing dramatic reenactments alongside interviews with those closest to the case, this story is too

wild to skip for fans of true crime and true drama. (90 min.) m —Anna

HOT TAMALE: On a road trip to Tallahassee, Jamie (Margaret Qualley) and Marian (Geraldine Viswanathan) discover their rental car contains contraband sought by criminals, in Drive-Away Dolls, screening in local theaters.

FAMILY TIES: (Left to right) Lyle (Travis Fimmel), Gus (Lee Tiger Halley), Frances (Phoebe Tonkin), and Eli (Felix Cameron) work to hold their family together in crimeaddled 1980s Australia, in the Netflix miniseries Boy Swallows Universe

DATING NIGHTMARE: After a divorce, Dave Kroupa tried online dating, which turned his life into a stalking nightmare, in the Netflix true crime documentary Lover, Stalker, Killer

RAISE A GLASS, AND SPOONFUL:

Beer purchases at Birchwood Nipomo on Saturday, March 2, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., will come with complimentary macaroni and cheese tastings, courtesy of the venue’s inaugural mac and cheese cookoff event.

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

As a garden nursery and beer garden, Birchwood Nipomo is a haven for both plant buffs and laymen loungers simply looking to enjoy some libations on a scenic outdoor patio, occasionally paired with food truck offerings or the entries in various cookoffs.

Visitors of Birchwood can expect the latter on Saturday, March 2, when the garden hosts its inaugural macaroni and cheese competition. The origin of the upcoming cookoff started with the success of a similar get-together, Birchwood owner Howdy Nunez told the Sun.

“When we put the chili cookoff together, we just kind of threw it together. Our patrons would come in and say, ‘Hey you guys should do this,’” said Nunez, whose venue hosted the cookoff during the winter of 2023. “It went pretty well. People enjoyed it and had a good time. So we thought we should keep this as a norm and do this more often.”

While the two new traditions are labeled as cookoffs, both events are informal and more about everyone involved having fun than competing.

NURTURING NIPOMO: Birchwood Nipomo

garden, which offers its guests patio seating and often hosts food truck events on a rotating basis.

March gladness

Birchwood Nipomo’s mac and cheese cookoff takes place on Saturday, March 2, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Rain postpones the event— visit birchwoodnipomo.com or call (805) 723-5102 for more info. The venue is located at 323 W. Tefft St., Nipomo.

Similar to the chili cookoff, the participating cooks in the mac and cheese competition are independent amateur chefs who responded to an open call from Birchwood. As of Feb. 27, there were eight contestants in the lineup, but there may be some late entries as well, Nunez said.

“It’s not like the mac and cheese fest in Avila, where chefs from different restaurants compete. It’s nothing that serious,” Nunez said. “This is more of just a fun thing to do for residents. If you win, you get a plaque with your name and bragging rights for the year. It’s just something they can hold their hat on.”

There will be a small panel of judges—some picked in advance, others set to be chosen from volunteering patrons on the day of the event—who’ll vote for their favorite mac and cheese dishes at the cookoff, Nunez added.

During their ranking, one aspect the judges will be asked to look out for specifically is the use of any unique ingredients, as each

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BIRCHWOOD NIPOMO

includes both a plant nursery and outdoor beer

participant is asked to include at least one special topping or addition not traditionally required in mac and cheese.

Nunez personally hopes someone incorporates “a good brisket” or other protein, he said.

“I’d like something with some kind of substantial base, like tri-tip or something to that effect, or chili verde,” Nunez said.

Throughout the cookoff, customers of Birchwood’s beer garden will get complimentary mac and cheese samplings—each beer purchase will include a free tasting. The venue’s drink selection includes beers from the Second Chance Beer Company, which donates 1 percent of its gross total sales of its New Day IPA and Buddy Lager to dog rescues based in California and Arizona.

what we have on tap,” said Nunez, who took over Birchwood in 2016.

Since 2015, the company has donated more than $200,000 to the organizations that benefit from its Seize a Pint, Save a Pup Pledge. Nunez said Birchwood carries Second Chance beers because of its charitable work and to encourage dog lovers to bring their furry friends to the dogfriendly garden.

Birchwood’s beer garden highlights a variety of local breweries as well, with beers from Liquid Gravity, There Does Not Exist, Firestone Walker, and other Central Coast spots.

“I like to rotate a lot of different beers, as far as

At the time, Birchwood was primarily a garden nursery venue, but Nunez and his wife envisioned using part of its property for people to enjoy as an outdoor gathering and dining space.

“We thought about how else we could capitalize on the beautiful grounds here and the beautiful weather in Nipomo,” Nunez said. “We’ve just kind of been slowly morphing it into what it is today, and it’s working. It’s just going to keep growing as more and more people find out about us.” m Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood hopes the moon is made out of cheese. Send rocket boots to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

PLANT AHEAD: Birchwood Nipomo is well known for its garden nursery, plant shop, and scenic grounds.