Sun, June 20, 2024

Winning Images 2024

Local photographers share their view of the world for our annual photography contest [15]

Hit Man is a hit! [32]

DreamHome

Amateur photographers from across the Central Coast entered our annual Winning Images photo contest, sharing their carefully crafted view of the world with us. Our judges narrowed down the entries to three winners in each category and an honorable mention based on the composition and uniqueness of each photo, among other qualities. Catch this year’s winning images on the pages of this issue as well as at The Photo Shop in downtown SLO through mid-July [15]

This week, you can also read about how Guadalupe’s planning to fund renovation of its historic theater [4]; the Melodrama’s take on Pirates of Penzance [30]; and find locally made cookware at a winery near you [33]. Camillia Lanham editor JUNE 20 - JUNE 27, 2024 VOL. 25 NO. 17

Luxury Condos

• Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) announced a legislative oversight hearing in response to the recent state auditor’s report on wage theft, according to a June 13 statement from Hart’s office. The audit identified substantial deficiencies by the California Labor Commissioner’s Office in assisting Californians affected by wage theft. According to Labor Commissioner’s Office data, it had 47,000 backlogged claims at the end of fiscal year 2022-23. Its Wage Claims Adjudications Unit lacks a sufficient number of staff throughout its field offices and thus can neither process new wage claims in a timely manner nor efficiently reduce the extensive backlog of wage claims. It also lacks complete and accurate data to enable it to provide proper oversight and ensure compliance with statutory requirements, according to the audit. “The Labor Commissioner’s Office clearly needs to do a better job helping Californians who have been victims of wage theft. A backlog of 47,000 claims is unacceptable. A collection rate of 12 percent is unacceptable. Taking an average of more than two years to issue decisions on wage claims is unacceptable,” Hart said in the statement. “At the hearing, I want to hear real solutions to these problems from the labor commissioner. Californians who have been victims of wage theft deserve better.”

• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal visited the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office to highlight new funding he secured in this year’s federal budget to support replacing the dispatch system, according to a June 11 statement from Carbajal’s office. The $2 million in federal funds will help upgrade the hardware and software of the radio dispatch system, which handles the 10,000 annual calls and is the county’s largest 911 dispatch. The current system is set to expire in September 2024. This funding is part of $13.4 million secured by Carbajal for 14 Central Coast projects that the congressman championed over the course of the past year’s federal budget negotiations. The projects range from supporting the development of new affordable housing projects to water system upgrades. “I’m proud to have secured $2 million in federal funding to support the replacement of the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office radio dispatch system,” Carbajal said in the statement. “This investment will help bring upgraded hardware and software, enhancing our community’s safety and response capabilities. It’s a testament to our commitment to ensuring our law enforcement has the tools they need to effectively serve and protect.”

• U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California) and Michael Bennet (D-Colorado) introduced the Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act to provide compensation for farmworkers who lose out on work and pay due to extreme weather, public health emergencies, and other disasters. California is home to up to 800,000 year-round and seasonal farmworkers who help power the state’s $59 billion agricultural economy, yet despite their contributions to the local, regional, and national economies, there are few protections for the farm workforce, according to a statment from Padilla’s office. The California agricultural economy faces $2.4 billion in damages from 2023 alone, and that’s before accounting for flooded farmworker homes in Pajaro or lost farmworker income. Existing federal disaster relief programs insufficiently compensate farmworkers when they lose wages as a result of conditions out of their control according to the senator’s office.

“California’s farmworkers labor under extreme conditions to help put food on the table for hundreds of millions of Americans,” Padilla said in the statement.

“But as farmworkers in Pajaro learned last year after extreme flooding, and those across the country know too well, natural disasters can devastate agricultural communities. We must protect the beating heart of our nation’s food supply by providing critical emergency assistance to these essential workers.” m

Guadalupe will put Royal Theater bond measure on ballot

Facing grant deadlines and increased costs, the Guadalupe City Council voted 4-1 (with Councilmember Eugene Costa Jr. dissenting) during its June 11 meeting to approve a bond measure for the Nov. 5 ballot that would help fund the Royal Theater renovation project.

The project proposes to revitalize the historic site (built in 1940) with a new state-of-the-art movie theater and a performing arts center for hosting live stage productions, musical events, educational and cultural programs, and a meeting space for local organizations, according to the staff report.

The city received $9.8 million in grant funding—$5 million from the California Arts Council and $4.8 million from the U.S. Economic Development Agency—that was originally slated to cover the cost of the entire project, City Attorney Philip Sinco told the council. However, due to inflation, the city now needs about $3 million to complete the project as it’s currently proposed.

“We are running into some potential deadlines with the Economic Development Agency’s $4.8 million; we need to begin construction in March [2025]—the 25th at the latest,” Sinco said, adding that he didn’t know if the city could get an extension. “I understand that no matter how we cut it, if we modify the project or reduce some elements that can be deferred later, it’s still going to be short.”

Guadalupe city staff proposed a general obligation bond measure to raise the additional funds needed to complete the project. If passed, Guadalupe property owners would be required to pay an additional $77 per year in property taxes to repay the proposed bonds, said Steve Gordon, a consultant working with the city on the project. He added that the rate will fluctuate depending on the property’s value.

Guadalupe Mayor Ariston Julian said during the meeting that Guadalupe “is a community in favor of supporting the community.” Voters passed measures for public safety in 2020 and a bond measure for the school district in 2022, however he saw this time around as a “hard hill to climb.”

“I’m going to say the negative side of things: Santa Maria Joint Union High School District is going to push a bond perhaps in November, too, for maintenance and a new school. How does that look for our taxpayers?” Julian said. “I think we’ve heard individuals speak. I know they’re not opposed to the theater; they are opposed to how we go about it.”

Many residents voiced support and highlighted the need for this project, but others said that the city was putting “the cart before the horse,” by approving the bond measure before a special meeting scheduled for June 18—after the Sun went to press—where residents could learn more about the project and the bond measure.

“This scheduling puts the cart before the horse or [keeps] people in the dark before they know what’s going on. It’s disgraceful and disrespectful,” resident Jeannie Mello told City Council during public comment.

She and her husband are barely “keeping their heads above water now,” she added. “Please don’t throw us an anchor.”

“Costs will continue to skyrocket. I’m not saying we shouldn’t aim high, but hope is not a plan, and you seem to hope that the community will come through and trust this will be wellmanaged even though we don’t know what nonprofit out there will be capable of running the site,” Mello said.

City consultant Gordon said during the meeting that the city had to vote on moving the bond measure forward on June 11 to keep up with Santa Barbara County’s June 27 deadline to get measures on the ballot, otherwise there will be no option to move forward.

He added that the City Council could later strike the measure down during its second reading on June 25, which requires a four-fifths vote from the council to approve the measure.

“You have more opportunities to say no. You don’t have more opportunities to say yes,” Gordon said.

—Taylor O’Connor

Buellton’s 2024 election will ask voters to consider urban growth boundary

A measure to help straighten the path to potentially expanding Buellton’s city limits will be on residents’ ballots in November.

During its June 13 meeting, the Buellton City Council agreed to pose a question to city voters: Should the city’s general plan be amended to expand the area within Buellton’s urban growth boundary (UGB) by approximately 123 acres?

According to the staff report, this measure—if passed during the 2024 election—would allow for the future potential expansion of city limits within the 123 selected acres.

City Manager Scott Wolfe described the UGB as “a boundary within which the city may provide municipal services,” at the June 13 meeting.

“Currently that boundary is co-terminus with the city limits … as it was established by a voter initiative in 2008,” Wolfe said.

Staff began contemplating an update of the UGB in 2023, according to Wolfe. Buellton hosted two public workshops on the proposed expansion in March and April.

“Public input has been taken throughout this process,” said Wolfe, who added that written comments and submitted letters were compiled for the public to view on a tab of the city’s website.

Three proposed sites make up the 123 acres in question. During public comment, 3rd District Santa Barbara County Supervisor Joan Hartmann expressed support for the UGB measure and the chosen sites—two located east of Buellton, with one north of the city.

“The choice not to go west into productive farmland is a great idea, but instead to go north on the east side into pasture and grazing land,” Hartmann said. “That makes a lot of sense environmentally and in terms of economic delivery of city services.”

Before Hartmann spoke, Buellton resident and Women’s Environmental Watch (WE Watch) board member Theresa Reilly asked the City Council to remove one site, known as Site C, east of McMurray Road, from the proposal.

“There seems to be agreement that Site A is the most promising direction for any needed housing and/or industrial, commercial expansion,” Reilly said on behalf of the WE Watch board of directors. “Site B is so small—2.5 acres, already urban, in size—and hidden that any future development there will have very limited impact on Buellton.

“But Site C is a highly visible location with a residential neighborhood abutting it just below,” Reilly said. “Those residents and all the rest of the city need to have a specific project proposed before voting on whether or not to add it to the urban growth boundary.”

Reilly’s concern about Site C echoes complaints in some letters, including one from Buellton resident Len Fleckenstein.

“Any decision to include Site C in the UGB should await a clear development plan and approval or rejection by voters at that time— not in 2024,” Fleckenstein wrote. “We don’t know if any development will ever actually be proposed; we don’t know if a proposed development would survive a zoning change out of agricultural usage; and we don’t know if a proposed development would offer more benefits than costs.”

Hartmann addressed the Site C complaints during public comment and described the controversy as a product of misunderstanding.

“Some people have expressed concern about one of the parcels. … They contend that residents should have the right to subject that parcel to a campaign to determine if it meets the desires of residents,” Hartmann said. “To my mind, this is a misunderstanding of the purpose of an urban growth boundary.”

She added that the urban growth boundary change is not the same as rezoning.

“It is simply a statement that certain parcels are likely to be annexed into the city for development in a certain period,” Hartmann added. “Should these lands actually be proposed for annexation, there will be opportunities to bring concerns about the annexation to LAFCO [Local Agency Formation Commission]. Any project would be subject to normal city planning processes.”

After public comment, Councilmember John Sanchez described the ballot inclusion as “a good move,” and Councilmember David Silva said the proposed UGB expansion “gives us opportunity for growth, both from a housing standpoint and from an economic standpoint.”

“We need the ability to allow that growth to happen if we find a project that makes sense,” Silva said.

Councilmember Elysia Lewis motioned to approve the ballot inclusion, which passed 4-0. Councilmember Hudson Hornick was absent.

—Caleb Wiseblood

Farmers struggled in 2023 despite high crop values

While Santa Barbara County’s agricultural industry saw a $1.87 billion gross production value in 2023, increased costs and high regulations continue impacting farmers’ ability to survive, Claire Wineman said during the June 18 Board of Supervisors meeting.

“The numbers presented today are before any costs and not take-home profit,” the president of the Grower-Shipper Association of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties said of

CASH NEEDED: Guadalupe City Council voted to move a bond measure forward that would help fill the nearly $3 million funding gap for the long-awaited Royal Theater Renovation Project.

the annual Crop and Livestock Report. “Farmers only receive a small portion of the retail sales price. … Not every year is profitable. We face fierce competition from other states and countries with lower costs and fewer labor and environmental protections.”

The Crop and Livestock Report, formerly the Agricultural Crop Report, shares the gross domestic product value of Santa Barbara County’s agricultural activities. The reported $1.87 billion value reflects a 2.8 percent decrease (more than $54 million) from 2022’s $1.9 billion total value, county Agricultural Commissioner Jose Chang told supervisors.

“Despite the slight decrease, overall agriculture production value has continued to grow,” Chang said, with 2023’s numbers higher than those in 2019, 2020, and 2021.

Fruit and nut crops make up about 50 percent of the county’s gross production value (more than $930 million)—with strawberries remaining the county’s top crop at $775.3 million, Chang said.

Cut flower and nursery products jumped from the fourth most valuable crop in 2022 to the second most valuable crop at $122 million—a 28 percent increase in value due to market demand, product stabilization, and increased production, according to the report.

Livestock products made the county’s top 10 ($46.5 million) for the first time since 2012 due to an increased demand for beef and ranchers being able to retain more land due to the heavy rains.

Cannabis is not calculated in the county’s total gross production value because it’s illegal at the federal level; however, Santa Barbara County cannabis products saw a $333.3 million total

Act now!

value, which would put it ahead of cut flower and nursery products and wine grapes if it could be included in the total value.

“If [legalization] happens at the federal level, at that point it could be considered as an agricultural commodity,” Chang said. “If it were, we would absolutely be a higher agricultural industry in Santa Barbara County.”

Despite the county’s success, many farmers still struggled. The 2023 winter storms resulted in $169 million in agricultural losses— primarily in Santa Maria and Guadalupe—with strawberries taking the biggest blow (more than $56 million in crop losses), according to the Crop and Livestock Report.

“Producers had to repair infrastructure, repair their fields or in many cases not access fields for the growing cycle,” Chang said. “The weather and climate change is making it more challenging for them; the storms are leading to an environment for pests and diseases to thrive and be a little bit more complicated to control those pests.”

The county has worked with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help farmers cope with the losses, but many farmers don’t qualify for assistance because of their income, Chang said.

While people may see large numbers from the crop report, 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson said it’s important to recognize that it’s a challenging time to be a farmer.

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

“The trend you are seeing is consolidation, where our small farms aren’t able to exist anymore because of the burdens and competition that exists in California,” Nelson said. “This is the best place to grow these commodities in the world, but we also have a lot of challenges ahead of us.” ❍

—Taylor O’Connor

2560 Skywave Drive

Santa Maria, CA 93455

805.922.4573 smjuhsd.org

Francis Joseph Nolan

FrankNolan passed away peacefully and gracefully on June 8, 2024, never letting cancer dim his dynamic spirit. He had a bigger than life presence. He was proud Irish, embracing everything Irish. Music and faith were in his soul. His powerful voice was his instrument and he used it well, studying opera at Music Academy of the West, Mt. St. Mary’s, and PCPA. His quick wit and amazing intelligence brought him to many classrooms as he pursued his career as an itinerant professor at Cal Poly SLO, California Men’s Colony, and Hancock College. He joined the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) at a young age and remained in the Society for over ten years, serving as a hospital Chaplain at St. Francis Hospital in Hawaii and the University of San Francisco, teaching at Jesuit High School in Sacramento before leaving the priesthood to join his family in his hometown of Santa Maria, eventually settling in Los Osos. He was humble in his faith and a fierce defender of the less fortunate.

Born in Illinois in March 1949, the oldest of seven siblings, the family moved to Los Angeles and then Santa Maria. His family, colleagues, and students loved him and he loved them. Teaching philosophy and religion was his calling. He held two Masters degrees in Philosophy and English from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA, and two Bachelor’s Degrees in Journalism

and English from Cal Poly, SLO. Frank is survived by his wife of 35 years, Alexis Olds and daughter, Mariel Olds, siblings, Regina, Lisa, Catherine, Patricia, and John, and in-laws, Mary Nolan, Lynne Olds, Bart Sears, Laurie Olds, Ronald Castle, Martha Mercer, Bill Deihl, and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his beloved son, Bobby, and brother Stephen.

Services will be at 3:00 on Saturday, June 22 at the Monastery of the Risen Christ, 2308 O’Connor Way, San Luis Obispo. He wanted remembrances to go to monastic causes.

Namaste Francis Joseph “by the Grace of God” Nolan.

Growing rowing

Santa Barbara Community Rowing looks to expand after its juniors team placed in nationals

BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR

Two Santa Barbara County high schoolers took Santa Barbara Community Rowing’s Junior Racing Team to nationals for the first time, where the girls took seventh place in the United States, head coach Gracie Barbara told the Sun.

“I was crying all weekend because I was so proud of them,” Barbara said. “To make it to nationals my second year with this program was exciting because it showed that we were going in the right direction and providing a program that excites parents and kids.”

Originally established in 2019 as Mission Rowing, the nonprofit closed down in 2022, but its mission to bring rowing to Santa Barbara County continued through Santa Barbara Community Rowing, which began operating with a new board of directors and Barbara as head coach.

“We want to take advantage of Lake Cachuma and what it offers. There’s no rowing provided for the Santa Barbara area at all,” Barbara said. “Rowing is for everybody—it can be for any age, any gender, any ability—and I think that’s been our push since October.”

Santa Barbara Community Rowing offers rowing opportunities for people of all ages. Families can sign their kids up for summer day camps, or adults can hop in the boat themselves and try the sport through the nonprofit’s eight-week learn-to-row programs, which meet twice a week. For youth looking for more

of a challenge, they can sign up for Santa Barbara Community’s competitive teams for kids 11 to 18.

“The program is structured with the intent to compete, to become a faster, better athlete and a faster, better rower,” Barbara said. “Of course the goal is to become more technically sound, … but the overall goal is to be a better athlete and team, learn to problem solve and learn how to be a professional athlete.”

“Both of them have such mature views on being competitors, being athletes. They were focused in, extremely confident, and excited to be there,” Barbara said. “Our goal was to make it out of the time trials. Out of the 25 boats in the category, we had to make top 16; we made seventh in the trials. We surprised ourselves.” Dingman and Loya got third place by 0.3 seconds in the semifinals and walked away with seventh place after the finals, she said.

“This is the best of the best in the country. So many athletes move on to the Junior National Team,” she said, adding that others go on to compete at the college/university level. “They said, ‘We’re going to get a medal next year.’”

Barbara grew up on the East Coast and has been rowing for 20 years. She’d been coaching at a Division 1 college when she took the Santa Barbara Community’s head coach position with the goal to get more kids in the juniors program.

“There’s a lot of sports offered to youth out there and there’s a lot of youth who haven’t found a sport that works for them. A lot of times it’s those youth who try rowing and it just clicks for them,” Barbara said. “They never considered themselves an athlete, they were on the bench, but they come to rowing, get in the boat, take a couple strokes and fall in love.”

Kids from Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez, and Lompoc meet after school at Lake Cachuma three days a week for practice and compete several times a year in the fall and the spring, she said. The team travels

to Sacramento, Long Beach, San Diego, and San Francisco for competitions where team members compete against other kids their age in programs throughout the state in the USRowing Southwest Youth region.

“The southwest region is one of the most competitive regions when it comes to junior rowing. … We have the opportunity to race against them, and it makes us better athletes as well, especially since we’re such a small program,” Barbara said. “Ultimately, we also have fun while doing it—it’s fun to race.”

This year, 14-year old Jacie Dingman and 16-year-old Elsa Loya represented Santa Barbara Community Rowing in the 29th Annual USRowing Youth National Championships in Sarasota, Florida. The two competed in the youth under 17 double (racing in a two-person boat), where they placed fourth in regionals— qualifying the duo for nationals.

Throughout May, Barbara said, the two trained before and after school to get more meters and mileage in and wore sweatshirts in the afternoon to train for competing in a hot and humid environment.

Barbara said she hopes more juniors will join the team in order to offer four-person and eight-person boats, help some team members train for college or future opportunities, and help more people discover the sport.

For more information on Santa Barbara Community Rowing’s adult and/or kids programming, visit rowsbc.org.

Highlight

• The Santa Maria Public Library summer reading program—Read, Renew, Repeat—is underway through July 31, with a program for every age level, from toddlers to adults. Each program offers activities, challenges, and prizes for reading based upon age level. Participants may sign up at any of the five Santa Maria Public Library locations. Adults can sign up at the second floor information desk, and families, children, and teens can sign up on the first floor in youth services at the Main Library. Youth participants may sign up for the youth summer reading program online at sm.blackgold.org/ srp2024signup. m

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

NATIONAL COMPETITION: Santa Barbara Community Rowing’s Jacie Dingman and Elsa Loya row during the time trials on June 6 at the 29th annual USRowing Youth National Championships in Sarasota, Florida.

What do you think of the county’s plan to address vehicle encampments?

50% I’m curious what will happen after the state grant is spent.

33% They won’t be able to assist 300 people in two years.

17% It’s a strong allocation of services and will make a difference.

0% It’s a step, but it’s not enough. 6 Votes Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

Northern Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly 801 S Broadway Suite 3 Santa Maria, CA 93454

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Divisive rhetoric

depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.”

BY BARRY RANDS

Regarding “Semantics and spin” in the May 30 Sun, it really saddens me to see a group like REACT and their spokesperson, Mandy Davis, continue to use divisive rhetoric to oppose offshore wind energy. A few examples of their misinformation:

• The article claims that the fossil fuel industry “almost never” funds campaigns against wind energy. The fossil fuel industry’s extensive campaign against offshore wind and renewables in general has been going on for years and is well documented in articles such as, “The oil and gas industry is behind offshore wind misinformation,” published just last year by the Center for American Progress.

• Ms. Davis does not appear to know the definition of renewable energy, claiming that “there is not a single aspect of the offshore wind industry that is renewable.” “Renewable” refers to the source of energy, not the means to capture it. A simple Google search for the definition confirms this: “energy from a source that is not

Protest the use of ICBMs till they’re eliminated

“When I say that there is a step that could reduce the risk of nuclear war significantly that has not been taken but could easily be taken, that is the elimination of American ICBMs.” –Daniel Ellsberg (1931-2023)

An intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is a land-based nuclear weapon. U.S. ICBMs are stored in underground silos across the Great Plains. Once launched, even by accident, they cannot be recalled. William J. Perry, U.S. defense secretary from 1994 to 1997 warned about the threat posed by ICBMs. “These dangerous missiles are not needed for deterrence, as we would use

• A third example is her claim that scientific monitoring of the environmental impacts of offshore wind does not exist. The Pacific Coast Offshore Wind Environmental Research Project Finder lists 120 scientific research projects relevant to the future of offshore wind on the Pacific Coast. On the East Coast, where offshore wind is operational, active monitoring is currently in progress.

• And lastly (though I could easily expand this list), the one that saddens me most is the characterization of environmental NGOs as illogical and greedy for supporting offshore wind [in New Times’ May 23 version of “Semantics and spin”]. This point is regrettable for two reasons: Firstly, it is precisely because of global warming and climate change that NGOs such as the local chapters of SLO Climate Coalition, SLO County Citizens’ Climate Education, Sierra Club, Morro Coast Audubon Society, and Surfrider support offshore wind development. Offshore wind, when combined with energy storage systems, has the potential to replace dozens of fossil fuel power plants, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the production of electricity. Secondly, by its misinformed and divisive

survivable weapons based on submarines at sea for any retaliation. Yet ICBMs increase the risk that we will blunder into nuclear war by mistake. … Starting a nuclear war by mistake is the greatest existential risk to the United States today. The ICBMs are, at best, extra insurance that we do not need; at worst, they are a nuclear catastrophe waiting to happen.”

The cost per unit for the new Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile system was projected to be $118 million and now is estimated at $162 million, putting the projected total program cost at about $130 billion-plus over the next decade, up from an estimated baseline of $96 billion.

June 10 to 16, 2024, is Daniel

rhetoric, REACT destroys its credibility and alienates itself from environmental organizations that could be potential allies in their cause to protect ocean and coastal resources from unmitigated environmental impacts.

The environmental NGOs that I am a part of all recognize the potential for negative environmental impacts during the planning, construction, and operation of offshore wind. And we want the operators to do all they can to reduce or mitigate those impacts.

But we also understand that the negative environmental impact of continued combustion of fossil fuels to generate electricity is not just a potential problem, it is a current one, and it is causing extensive and ongoing damage to not only the marine environment but to the entire planet.

We need to transition from fossil fuels to clean energy sources, and offshore wind can and should be part of that transition. m

Barry Rands retired from the Morro Bay Department of Public Services in 2015 and is currently a member of the SLO Climate Coalition, the SLO County Citizens’ Climate Education, and the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club. Respond with a letter for publication by emailing it to letters@santamariasun.com.

Ellsberg Week, a week of education and action to honor peacemaking and whistleblowing. Visit defusenuclearwar.org to learn more about ICBMs. Test launches of an ICBM happen about four times a year at Vandenberg Space Force Base in Lompoc. Consider joining the monthly peaceful protests outside of Vandenberg the first Wednesday of each month from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m.; alternatively, write to your legislators to tell them to eliminate ICBMs.

ICBMs are dangerous and costly.

Dolores

Howard Paso Robles

We still have time to preserve a livable planet I appreciate that news publications are increasingly covering our planet’s worsening climate crisis. I read recently that May was the 12th consecutive month with average temperatures higher than all observations since 1850—probably the highest in more than 100,000 years.

Shortly after that, I found out that California has in one year seen a doubling in the sale of electric buses, vans, and trucks. To combat despair, we need more information such as this to give us encouragement and hope for transformative solutions.

It is unfortunate that California has curtailed its incentive programs to encourage more residents to put solar on their roofs. That is the very opposite of the governmental actions that are needed to lower CO2 emissions.

And, quoting Joan Baez, we need to remember that “action is the antidote to despair.” Positive actions could include taking steps to reduce the fossil fuel use in our own lives and calmly conversing with others about climate change. This is in addition to full-steam-ahead actions by our government at all levels.

We are now in the most consequential race in human history—a contest between our suicidal use of fossil fuels on the one hand and, on the other, actions and policies that transition us away from the dangerous path we’re now on. I’m hopeful that with all of us working together, we still have time to preserve a livable planet for Earth’s inhabitants.

Jim Wright San Luis Obispo

Demanding deadlines

Before putting tax measures on the ballot, most cities get the word out and gauge public sentiment. But that didn’t happen in Guadalupe

The City Council recently voted to put a bond measure on the ballot to raise funds that will help pay to revitalize Guadalupe’s historic theater. And while the city may have had a short discussion about the potential bond earlier this year, it doesn’t seem to have received any public input prior to the June 11 meeting.

“This scheduling puts the cart before the horse or [keeps] people in the dark before they know what’s going on. It’s disgraceful and disrespectful,” resident Jeannie Mello told the City Council. “I’m not saying we shouldn’t aim high, but hope is not a plan, and you seem to hope that the community will come through.”

I guess skidding into deadlines with your fingers crossed and eyes closed tight sometimes works. No peeking!

The Santa Barbara County election ballot deadline is June 27 and use-it-or-lose-it grant deadlines are looming for the Royal Theater project, which is now over budget thanks to inflation and construction hasn’t even started yet—according to City Attorney Phil Sinco

The city’s consultant said that the council had to vote on it at the June 11 meeting to make the ballot but could change its mind on June 25 (the second reading), I guess if the public decided to put up a big stink at a special meeting on June 18.

The city’s really cramming it all together, isn’t

Shouldn’t the special meeting about the bond measure have come before the City Council’s vote?

“You have more opportunities to say no. You don’t have more opportunities to say yes,” consultant Steve Gordon said.

Actually, you could have had all the opportunities to say yes and no if Guadalupe had talked about the issue more, held multiple public meetings, surveyed folks, educated them—all the normal things that other cities do before plopping taxes on the ballot.

Didn’t the city know the grant deadlines were coming? And inflation isn’t new, is it? Project costs always rise. That should be built into the initial cost estimates, right? It’s weird that it never is. Meanwhile, even the mayor isn’t so sure about this whole bond thing. The nearly $3 million bond would add about $77 per year to property taxes, and Mayor Ariston Julian called it a “hard hill to climb.” Why? Voters passed bond measures in 2020 for public safety and 2022 for the school district. Will they do it for a theater when another local school district is also putting a bond measure on the ballot?

“I think we’ve heard individuals speak,” Julian said. “I know they’re not opposed to a theater; they are opposed to how we go about it.”

Yep. As in, everyone believes that renovating the historic Royal Theater will be good for the city. Not everyone believes they should be taxed more to do it. Arts and entertainment doesn’t quite rise to the same level as education and public safety. Duh! And maybe it should. But that’s not the reality we live in.

Or maybe it is. Fingers crossed, Guadalupe, that voters aren’t feeling the need to penny pinch come November. And keep those eyes shut! ❍

The Canary thinks peekers are cheaters. Send eye masks to canary@santamariasun.com.

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3) Tell us something about yourself that we can’t learn from your resume.

DINE AND DEVOUR

It’s been a lovely year so far, and our annual Best Of issue is here to continue the trend! We’re asking you, community members, to take your time to pick out some cool cats and top dogs. Specifically, we need you to help us find the eateries, drinkeries, businesses, and people that make northern Santa Barbara County so sweet—that make this place a special sort of place.

Now isn’t the time to hold back. It’s time to tag your partners in crime. So put on those goggles and that scarf, and hop into the hot seat. Fill out this ballot. Then talk to your family, friends, and neighbors—and even their pets—so you’re not the only one driving. We all hit the road at our own pace, so they need to fill out ballots of their own! You can even go online to vote at santamariasun.com. Just remember, you need to complete at least 25 categories to make it into the sidecar.

Return this ballot to the Sun office or go online by 5 p.m. on July 1. Then stay tuned to read all about the coolest, hottest winners around, on August 22.

Tell everyone!

—Camillia Lanham

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

BURNING CASH

ABOUT TOWN

David Ikola, M.D. Shane Rostermundt, D.O. Joseph Nunez, M.D. Dr. Michele Kielty, D.O.

Winning Images 2024

Picture perfect

Winning images from photographers across the Central Coast capture the world

BY CAMILLIA LANHAM

Photographs can’t always convey an image as the human eye sees it, but sometimes a photographer can translate it exactly. They have the skills to show the world for what it is, in all the light, color, and emotion that a moment can muster. And sometimes, we absolutely get

lucky. Both of those mean that everyone else gets to view a part of the world they may not have otherwise seen.

Since 1994, New Times Media Group has asked for those images. We’ve invited local photographers to send us their favorites for our Winning Images contest. This year’s all-digital contest received more than 350

Jayson Mellom began his photojournalism career at the Marion Chronicle-Tribune in Indiana before moving on to the Athens Daily News and then The Atlanta Journal/ Constitution before eventually settling in San Luis Obispo. He worked for the SLO Tribune for 16 years and has been New Times’ photographer since 2016. Along the way, he’s won state, regional, and national awards for his photojournalism; has been published in National Geographic, Sports Illustrated, In Touch, and Der Spiegel magazines; and has had photos in the Los Angeles Times, the Chicago Tribune, and The New York Times

photos. Our judges narrowed them down to three winners each in eight categories, plus honorable mentions, and judge’s picks. Every entry also came in with a $10 fee, which will be rolled back into prize money for each of the winners, who also receive awards from the contest’s sponsors. Winning photographs will be on display

at The Photo Shop (1027 Marsh St., SLO) through July 19.

Check out the winning images from 2024 on the following pages, and be sure to keep an eye on what you could submit in 2025’s contest! ❍

Contact Editor Camillia Lanham at clanham@santamariasun.com.

San Luis Obispo native and perennial Winning Images judge Peggy Mesler is a photographer and the owner of The Photo Shop in SLO, where she shares her appreciation for—and knowledge of— photography with customers, clients, and friends. Peggy earned a journalism degree from Cal Poly, and she opened her shop in 1995.

Stephanie Secrest has a master’s degree in photojournalism from Ohio University. She’s been a freelancer for more 15 years and was with the press for 21 years before that. Stephanie was invited to attend the exclusive Eddie Adams Workshop, a top honor for photojournalists. She was also a pre-qualification judge for Adobe with its ADAA contest. She’s been published in Newsday, The London Sunday News Magazine, The Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times, The Baltimore Sun, and San Francisco Chronicle among others and was chief photographer and photo editor for two newspapers. ❍

PHOTO COURTESY OF JAYSON MELLOM

PHOTO COURTESY OF PEGGY MESLER

PHOTO COURTESY OF STEPHANIE SECREST

Carl Sepulveda, Animals, Untitled, FIRST PLACE & BEST OF SHOW

Winning Images 2024

Carl Sepulveda, Flora, Untitled, FIRST PLACE

Marlin Harms, Animals, She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not, SECOND PLACE

Bob Canepa, Animals, My Dogs Can Fly, THIRD PLACE

Jonathan Shapiro, Animals, Portrait of an Elephant Seal, HONORABLE MENTION

Kathleen Bosch Flora, Poppy Pop, SECOND PLACE

Lincoln Sullivan, Flora, Growing Through Adversity, HONORABLE MENTION

Winning Images 2024

Dan Baum, Flora, Oak First Spring Leaves and Lichen, THIRD PLACE

Heather Shultz, In Motion, Hummingbird, FIRST PLACE

Tim Bennett In Motion, Acrobatic Surfer at Morro Bay Competition, SECOND PLACE

Christopher Hamma, In Motion, Nature’s Roomba, THIRD PLACE

Jonathan Shapiro, In Motion, Rodeo Action, HONORABLE MENTION

Winning Images 2024

Amy Joseph, Land/Seascape, Blue Wave, FIRST PLACE

Shad Giordano, Land/Seascape, Groovy Rays at Montaña De Oro, SECOND PLACE

Jonathan Shapiro, Land/Seascape, Moonset by Morro Rock, THIRD PLACE

Kathleen Bosch, Land/Seascape, Over the Fog, HONORABLE MENTION

Andy Samarasena, Open, Stealth and Serenity: Wild Sri Lankan Leopard, THIRD PLACE

Andy Samarasena, Open, Cascade Capture: Bear’s Fishing Triumph at Brooks Falls, HONORABLE MENTION

Winning Images 2024

Michael Messina, People, That was Then, This is Now, FIRST PLACE

Wayne Angeloty Open, Predawn Lotus in First Light, SECOND PLACE

Roa Clark, People, Summer Evenings in Avila, SECOND PLACE

David Sirgany, People, A Blink in Time, THIRD PLACE

Andy Samarasena, People, Radiant Birthday Glow, HONORABLE

Winning Images 2024

Andy Samarasena, Travel, Nature’s Nurturer: Mother Bear Protecting Cubs by the Creek, FIRST PLACE

Andy Samarasena, Travel, Yosemite Majesty, SECOND PLACE

Mica Gross, Colorado High Mountain Stream, JUDGE’S PICK

Lance Wilson, Youth, Outflow, SECOND PLACE

Winning Images 2024

Izzy Huls-Hutton Youth, In Your Face, FIRST PLACE

Aria Patterson, Youth, Murphy and Me, THIRD PLACE

Izzy Huls-Hutton, Youth, All Bark No Bite, HONORABLE MENTION

Andy Samarasena, Travel, Tranquil Journey, THIRD PLACE

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.

CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: PAINTED

ROCKS Turn a simple rock into a masterpiece with some paint and creativity. All materials will be provided. Patrons must be 18 and older; registration required. June 24 4-5:30 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

CRAFTWORKS: PERSONALIZED

MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE Celebrate the summer season by writing a personalized message and storing it in a sand-filled, corked bottle. Write a message to a friend or loved one, or write down something you never want to forget. Registration required for this program, for patrons 18 and up. June 22 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN

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

LEARN CALIFORNIA’S OFFICIAL DANCE: WEST COAST SWING Learn west coast swing in a casual, friendly environment, taught by Texas state swing champion, Gina Sigman. Free intro from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Beyond the Basics ($10) is 7 to 7:45

p.m. $10 entry includes social dance (7:45 to 8:15 p.m.). Tuesdays, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 832-884-8114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt. THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG Performances follow at the Solvang Festival Theater, July 12-28. Presented by PCPA. June 27-30 Marian Theatre, 800 S. College Dr., Santa Maria, pcpa.org.

RAINBOW READS BOOK CLUB Join every month as we read and discuss literature that focuses on LGBTQIA+ authors, characters, and themes. The selection for June is Friday I’m in Love by Camryn Garrett. See sm.blackgold.org for available titles. Registration is required. June 28, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org. 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 water story. Through July 8 California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, calnatureartmuseum.org.

FAR FROM HOME A solo exhibit of watercolors by artist Martha Inman Lorch that showcase her travels across the globe. She chooses international subjects that catch her eye and imagination. Her unique perspective and watercolor skills make each painting visually enchanting. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through June. 805 -688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

AN INVITATION TO DANCE 2024 The Santa Ynez Valley Performing Arts Company presents its 35th anniversary celebration.

The show will highlight ballet, lyrical, jazz, hip-hop, and tap choreographies. June 2022 fossemalledancestudio.com. Santa Ynez High School Little Theater, 2975 CA-246, Santa Ynez.

PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT VEGA VINEYARD AND FARM Spend the afternoon sipping delicious wine and capturing the beauty of the surrounding landscape on canvas. June 30, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $89. 805-325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Vega Vineyard and Farm, 9496 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton.

UNDER THE SAME SUN The exhibition features works by five visual artists based in Central and Southern California with their own unique approach as seen in the diversity of the work on display and the variety of styles. Through July 7 elverhoj.org. Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, 805-686-1211.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

JASMINE GONZALEZ: CLOWN This solo exhibit highlights a collection of clown-themed collage pieces by the Lompoc-based artist. Through July 1 maniccreativeart.com. Eye on I, 131 N. I St., Lompoc.

THE MAGIC OF MY WORLD The Lompoc Valley Art Association’s Cypress Gallery will be featuring The Magic of My World, an artist show by Kristine Kelly. Through June 30 805-737-1129. Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc, lompocart.org.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover

MAJESTIC MILESTONE

The Santa Ynez Valley Performing Arts Company presents its 35th anniversary celebration, An Invitation to Dance 2024, with performances at the Santa Ynez High School Little Theater on June 20, 21, and 22 at 7 p.m. each evening. The show will highlight ballet, lyrical, jazz, hip-hop, and tap choreographies. Visit fossemalledancestudio.com for more info.

—Caleb Wiseblood

FLEX PERFORMING ARTS JUNE RECITAL

A dance and music spectacular, featuring the students of Flex Performing Arts. June 21 , 6-8 p.m., June 22 , 1-3 & 6:30-8:30 p.m. and June 23 3-5 p.m. 805-904-4741. flexperformingarts.com. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

GALLERY AT MONARCH DUNES ART

DISPLAY The Gallery at Monarch Dunes in Trilogy displays 22 original artworks from 15 Trilogy artist residents. The art displayed ranges from traditional to ethereal abstract compositions. They cover a wide media including acrylic, glass fusion, and photography. New work to be displayed on June 29. June 29 1-3 p.m. Free. Gallery at Monarch Dunes, 1640 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo, 805-343-7500.

PIRATES OF PISMO A-GO-GO The plot follows a young “junior pirate” who plans to celebrate his 21st birthday by breaking away from the grip of his master, the Pirate King. Comical complications arise because of his Feb. 29 birthday, as it only comes around every four years. Through July 6 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL Set in the late 1970s, this story of friendship and revenge is “outrageous, thought-provoking, and even a little romantic.” Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with their egotistical, lying boss. WednesdaysSaturdays, 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through June 30 $20$40. 805-786-2440. slorep.org/shows/9to-5-the-musical/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

ACT SUMMER THEATRE CAMPS Visit site for details on this summer camp series. Through Aug. 5 slorep.org/education/acttheatre-camps/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-786-2440.

ADAM PARKER SMITH: FOR THE TIME BEING This exhibition will feature several works made throughout the artist’s career as sort of a mid-career retrospective. Adam Parker Smith has a unique ability to address complex themes in a whimsical, light-hearted way that makes his work incredibly accessible. Through July 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/ exhibition/adam-parker-smith/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

APRIL BANKS: OUTLANDISH Los Angeles-based artist April Banks is a creative strategist working across visual art, social engagement, and exhibition design. Her practice sits intentionally between image, space, and experience. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/aprilbanks/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad 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.

BEGINNING WATERCOLOR WITH JAN FRENCH Learn the ways watercolor is apt to flow (or not), and how you and those colors can “start a tango that will unleash a new relationship with your artistic visions.” For beginners or watercolor artists who would like to “loosen up.” Thursdays, 1:30-4:30 p.m. through June 27 $120 plus materials. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Fourth Thursday of every

month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. CIRCUS VARGAS PRESENTS JUBILÉ! AN EPIC WORLD CELEBRATION Featuring the world’s finest in circus acrobatic and aerial artistry presented with the magical voice of Johnathan Lee Iverson. June 21 -July 8 $25-$80. circusvargas.com. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

CYANOTYPE BLUES WITH LINDA ELDER Learn how to get gorgeous blue colors using a variety of tools, plants, stencils, and the sun. It’s easy; no experience is necessary. Wear clothes you don’t mind accidently turning blue and watch the transformation of colors. June 22 , 1-4 p.m. $35. 219-299-9266. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. FREE DEMO WITH CHUCK CROTSER Let Crotser show you how to explore different drawing and sketching techniques using a variety of media, and take a peek into his colorful world of composition, design, and perspective. This demo is aimed at children ages 8 and up. Beginners welcome. June 22 , 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. 805-471-5967. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

CUNNINGHAM During this three-hour class, you’ll receive step-by-step instructions for creating a mountain landscape on mixed media paper using Inktense pencils activated with water and black ink. Beginners are welcome. June 23 , 12:30-3:30 p.m. $40. 805-4782158. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS COMPANY

THURSDAY, JULY 11

SATURDAY, JULY 13

Hot Stuff

BEHIND THE SCENES

Each featured artist in the Elverhoj Museum’s current group show, Under the Same Sun, will discuss their unique approaches, techniques, tools, and motivations during a live demonstration and dialogue event at the Solvang venue on Saturday, June 29, from 4 to 6 p.m. Luis Ramirez (whose work is pictured) is one of the exhibit’s five featured artists. Visit elverhoj.org for more info on Under the Same Sun.

—C.W.

ARTS from page 22

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.

SEA GLASS WIRE WRAP JEWELRY

MAKING CLASS In this class, your instructor will teach you how to take sea glass and create a beautiful necklace and pierced earrings using a wire wrapping technique. You’ll start by selecting three pieces of genuine, local sea glass then learn easy, basic jewelry-making techniques. June 30 1-2:30 p.m. $45. 805-541-1400. creativemetime.com. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

UNDINE Dive into this fairy tale of water spirits, switched identities, and tangled romance. June 22 7-9:30 p.m. and June 23 2-4:30 p.m. $22-$58. 805-756-4849. pacslo.org/events/detail/undine24. Cal Poly 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

CALL TO ARTISTS: SHOW OFF Select two of your best and most representative pieces to Show Off during our upcoming show. You can select a favorite from deep within your portfolio or feel free to create something new for the show. There is no “theme” except to “Show Off.” June 25 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Varies. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

CENTRAL COAST ARTISTS COLLECTIVE

Three artist groups of the Central Coast Artists Collective (photographers, sculptors, and craftmakers) show

2662. merrillgardens.com.

Merrill Gardens, 1220 Suey Rd., Santa Maria.

STORYTIME FOR ADULTS

You’re never too old to listen to a good story. Come hear classic and contemporary short stories read aloud and take part in a book club style discussion with other literature lovers. For patrons 18 and older; registration required. June 27 5-6 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/ services/departments/ library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. TECH MADE EASY: IPHONE AND APPLE

IOS This workshop is for anyone wanting to learn more about their Apple mobile device. Covers phone basics, apps, and simple troubleshooting. Please bring your cell phone to this free class and make sure you know your password. Patrons 18 and older. June 29, 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/ services/departments/ library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

selected works by members in this annual exhibition. Through June 24, 12-4 p.m. Free. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay. FIBER AND TEXTILES BY DEBBIE

GEDAYLOO A self-taught artist who uses observations of the natural world as inspiration. Through June 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

PHOTOGRAPHER CATHY RUSS Russ is a photographer living in Morro Bay whose photography has taken her around the world for decades. Her work features rural and urban scenes, landscapes, wild animals, and much more. Her work is printed on paper, metal, and canvas. Through June 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

D-AND-D AT THE LIBRARY Get ready to join an epic adventure with Dungeons and Dragons presented by the Santa Maria Adventurer’s League. This easy to learn game is the world’s most popular tabletop role playing game, and everyone is welcome regardless of previous experience. Space is limited; registration required. June 30 1-4:30 p.m. Free. 805925-0994. 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. 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.

OPEN HOUSE A ribbon cutting followed by the opportunity to explore newly renovated spaces, modern amenities, and comfortable living areas. Enjoy delicious appetizers, treats, and drinks as you mingle and meet the Merrill Gardens team. June 27, 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-928-

OLD SANTA YNEZ DAYS Old Santa Ynez Days is back on Saturday, June 22. Parade starts at 10 a.m.; line dance at high noon, artisan and boutique shopping, a free kids corral that includes pony rides, face painting, petting zoo. Features a kickoff dinner and weekend rodeo. See website for details. June 21 and June 22 Free. 805-3508517. oldsantaynezdays.com/. Downtown Santa Ynez, Saqunto St., Solvang. SYV PRIDE PARADE AND FESTIVAL Parade will roll through downtown Solvang with floats, music, and more, ending with a family-friendly Pride Festival at Solvang Park at noon. June 22 11 a.m. SYVPride.org. Downtown Solvang. LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

LOMPOC FLOWER FESTIVAL Features carnival rides and games, arts and craft exhibitors, food booths and commercial vendors, musical entertainment, and fun for the whole family. June 20 -23 explorelompoc.com. Ryon Park, 800 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. REJUVENATE MIND-BODY-SPIRIT

YOGA RETREAT Join instructor Nikki Hope for this magical and transformative experience. Start the weekend by honoring the International Day of Yoga and leave feeling renewed and energized. June 21 5 p.m. and June 23 1 p.m. 805-736-6528. sunburst.org/upcoming/. Sunburst Retreat Center, 7200 CA-1, Lompoc.

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.

CENTRAL COAST AQUARIUM SUMMER CAMPS The Central Coast Aquarium is excited to announce that summer camp registrations are now open. Each week-long camp session will include: interactive lessons and activities, outdoor field trips, animal encounters, and more. Mondays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through Aug. 5 centralcoastaquarium.org/campsprograms/seasonal-camps/summercamps/. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach, 805-595-7280. FIVE CITIES FREE REPAIR CAFE Got a

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 26

Open Farm Days: SLO Co Farm Trail

FRI-SUN, JUNE 21-23

Paso Robles & SLO

Coastal Wine & Paint Party

SATURDAYS, JUNE 22, 29, JULY 6, 13

Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, Cambria

Smoke & Song: A Country BBQ

FRIDAY, JUNE 28

Atascadero Lake Wine Fest

SATURDAY, JUNE 22 Pavilion on the Lake, Atascadero

A Tribute Show to Pat Benatar and Van Halen Fair Warning and Best Shot

Studio, SLO

2024 Live at the Lighthouse Concert Series

SATURDAYS, JUNE 22-OCT 12 Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

SLOFunny Comedy Show, Hosted by James Uloth

FRIDAY, JUNE 28 JUSTIN Downtown Tasting Room, Paso Robles

Park Palooza

SATURDAY, JULY 13 Dairy Creek Golf Course, SLO Terminal Presents Deadstock II

FRI-SUN, JULY 19-21 Dark Nectar Coffee, Atascadero

SATURDAY, JUNE 22 Blast 825 Brewery, Orcutt Rock Odyssey, Classic Rock from the 70s, 80s, & 90s

JUNE 22

Canyon Winery, Santa Maria

Chakra Meditation & Breath-Work

SUNDAY, JUNE 23

Aurora Meditations & Rituals, Morro Bay

Wheel

FRIDAY, JUNE 28 Club Car Bar, Templeton Mercantile

Treat Yo’ Self: A Decadent Experience in Honor of Pride Month

MONDAY, JUNE 24 Mistura, SLO

Supper Club at The Cliffs featuring Wolff Vineyards

SATURDAY, JUNE 29

The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, Pismo Beach

Mofunk

SATURDAY, JUNE 22

Ribline By The Beach, Grover Beach

Trivia Wednesday Night with Brain Stew Trivia

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26 Bang The Drum Brewery, SLO

Improv Comedy Show: Queer Comedy Show

SATURDAY, JUNE 29 The Bunker SLO

SATURDAY, JUNE 22 Flower

THURSDAY, JUNE 27 The Bunker SLO

SATURDAY, JUNE 29

Sylvia

21-JULY 7

Shasta Ave, Morro Bay

Privada, Grupo Ecentrico, & Banda Invisible

City Ballroom, Lompoc

John Metz HalfWayBoy Mirror Maggots

featuring Michael Ray

Tooth & Nail House of Wine, Paso Robles

SLOFunny Comedy Show, Hosted by James Uloth

Morro Bay Eagles Club

Hot Stuff

GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH

Circus Vargas presents Jubilé! An Epic World Celebration at the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo June 21 through July 8. Ringmaster and prolific opera singer Johnathan Lee Iverson (pictured) presides over the event, which features performances of acrobatics and other live entertainment. Visit circusvargas.com for the full performance schedule, tickets, and more details.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 24

beloved but broken item? Fix it for free at the Five Cities Repair Café at Oceano CSD. Volunteers repair bikes, clothing, small appliances, electronics, outdoor gear, and more. June 22 , 1-4:30 p.m. Free. 650-3676780. repaircafe5cities.org. Oceano CSD, 1655 Front St., Oceano.

FULL MOON YOGA, MEDITATION, AND SOUND BATH An evening of celestial connection and soulful movement. June 21 7:30-9 p.m. my805tix.com. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach.

LITTLE RANGER PROGRAM: SUMMER SMARTS Come explore how we can be safe on the beach, our trails, and when camping. Participate in fun activities and enjoy a short presentation from a Park Ranger. Ages 3 to 7; parent/guardian must be present. RSVP by calling. June 23 10-11 a.m. Free. 805-474-2664. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.

MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. 510-3623739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. PLANT RE-POTTING PARTY Bring 1 to 3 plants needing repotting and “we’ll do the rest.” Get your plant in new mix or potted up in a fun, educational atmosphere. Meet other plant parents and learn how different plants need different conditions. Light refreshments will be served. June 22 , 3-5 p.m. $20. 805-270-4083. theplantedparlour.com/event/repottingparty/. The Planted Parlour, 592 W Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

RAYS OF REVELATION: UNRAVELLING THE ASTROLOGY OF SUMMER Join local astrologer Lori Waters to learn about what’s happening in our skies during the summer of 2024. Lori will discuss the astrological significance of the summer solstice and the zodiac signs of summer (Cancer, Leo, and Virgo). June 22 1:303:30 p.m. $10. 805-773-7063. anc.apm. activecommunities.com. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Looking for a fun and educational opportunity this summer? Join the aquarium’s Volunteer Team. No marine science experience is necessary. There are lots of ways to get involved. Check out website for more details. Tuesdays. through Sept. 30 centralcoastaquarium.org. Central Coast Aquarium, 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach, 805-595-7280.

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS

Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone.

Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. 805-4816399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

AERIAL SILKS CLINIC Learn aerial skills that build memory, strength, coordination, confidence, and endurance. Plus, silks is a great way to learn flipping safely. Ages 7 to 17; all levels welcome. June 22 , 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; plus $10 per additional sibling. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/saturdayevent-clinics. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

AGILITY (PARKOUR) CLINIC Agility (aka parkour) offers a path to social confidence. Come flip with flair in a safe, nurturing environment. Ages 5 to 17; all levels welcome. June 22 , 1-3 p.m. $25 for first child; plus $10 per additional sibling. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/saturdayevent-clinics. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

AGING GRACEFULLY WITH PREVENTATIVE CARE “We can’t stop getting older, but we can shift our thinking about it.” Moving from “I can’t do anything about it” to “I have some control over how my mind and body ages.” Series sponsored by Unity Five Cities. Details from chris@peacefulpoint.com. Over Zoom. Wednesdays, 6-7:30 p.m. through Nov. 20 Love offering. (805) 489-7359. unity5cities.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

ARTE SUAVE ELITE GRAPPLING A showcase of elite Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and grappling super-fights on the Central Coast, with live DJ, food, drinks, and a Beach Party theme. June 22 4-7 p.m. $55. artesuaveelite.network/. Embassy Suites, 333 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo, 805-549-0800.

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.

CENTER STAGE SUMMER SINGING

CAMP For kids ages 8-13. Full of singing, music games, friendships, and a Friday Camp Show. Mondays-Fridays, 9 a.m. through June 28 $275 per kid per week.

805-458-6440. Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School, bsfcs.org., 1401 San Luis Bay Dr., San Luis Obispo

GUIDED ENERGETIC MEDITATION

Are you energetically sensitive? This reoccurring weekly class will be a guided Introduction to Energetic Meditation Techniques that will assist you to: clear your energy field, improve energy flow and energy boundaries, quiet and focus your mind, and be clearer about “Who You Really Are.” Mondays, 6:30-8 p.m.

through Nov. 30 $22. 503-929-6416. elohiacupuncture.com/classes/. Online, See website, 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. KIDS’ PARTY PARADISE: BEACH BASH Kids will have a fabulous evening of pizza, s’mores, and a movie. June 22 5-9:30 p.m. Starts at $50. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/kidsparty-paradise. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

METAPHYSICAL/SPIRITUALITY BOOK

CLUB A weekly book discussion, on a wide variety of titles from the general subject of metaphysics, spirituality, and comparative religion. For more information, contact David Higgins, email: davidhiggins67@ gmail.com. Location revealed to those invited. Wednesdays. rationalmetaphysics. com. Private location, TBA.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346. PICKLES FOR A PURPOSE A pickleball tournament to benefit Meals That Connect senior nutrition programs. Meals That Connect provides more than 200,000 meals to seniors annually. All skill levels are welcome. June 21, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., June 22 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and June 23 8 a.m.-2 p.m. $60. mealsthatconnect.org. French Park, 1040 Fuller Road, San Luis Obispo, 805-540-9484.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. galacc.org/events/. Online, San Luis Obispo. SLO BLUES BASEBALL 33 summer home games held. Go to bluesbaseball.com for full schedule. Tickets available from My805Tix. Through July 27 $10 adults; 12 and under free. 805-512-9996. my805tix.com. SLO Blues Summer Collegiate Baseball, Sinsheimer Stadium at 900 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispso.

SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A good core group of friends who gather to discuss topics we love/ care about from movies, outings, music, or being new to the area. We come from all walks of life and most importantly support each other. Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. sloqueer.groups.io/g/ lezbfriends. Online, San Luis Obispo.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 28

—C.W.

Santa Barbara County Fair

2024 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

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

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender nonconforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-541-4252.

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

VOLUNTEER RESTORATION EVENT WITH CUESTA COLLEGE SUSTAINABLE AG

PROGRAM The Morro Bay National Estuary Program, in partnership with Cuesta College, is hosting a volunteer restoration event at the Cuesta College Sustainable Agriculture site. This event will include setting up fencing for grazers and some vegetation management. June 23 9 a.m.-noon Free. eventbrite.com. Pennington Creek Road and Watson Drive, Pennington Creek and Watson, San Luis Obispo.

VOLUNTEERS URGENTLY NEEDED Hospice volunteers find working with patients to be very gratifying and emotionally meaningful. This is an excellent use of time for retirees, students, or anyone who feels called to give back to your community. Give the gift of time that only CCHH Hospice fills. Train free in mid-June for three Fridays only. Fridays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. through June 28 Free. 805-3057980. centralcoasthomehealth.com/index.php/ hospice-volunteer/. Central Coast Home Health and Hospice, 253 Granada, San Luis Obispo.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

COTTONWOOD CANYON NIGHT MARKET

Explore a treasure trove of local vendors showcasing delectable cuisines and handcrafted delights. From savory street eats to sweet sensations, there’s something to tantalize every palate. June 29 5-9 p.m. Free. 805-937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO

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

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

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

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

SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS 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.

STAY ON COURSE

Cambria Pines Lodge hosts its Winemaker’s Dinner with Opolo Vineyards on Sunday, June 30, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Attendees of the Cambria event can look forward to enjoying a five-course meal with wine pairings from Opolo Vineyards. Admission to the dinner is $130. Visit cambriapineslodge.com for tickets and more info on the upcoming gathering.

—C.W.

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

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

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

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

HIGH TEA Come and enjoy a delicious High Tea made by British owner Anna Arrowsmith, with either a hot drink ($40) or a glass of English sparkling wine ($50). Immerse yourself in a beautiful experience with tiered plates, white tablecloths, and classical music. For ages 21 and over. June 22 , 1-3 p.m. $40. 805-686-9126. arrowsmithwine.com. Arrowsmith’s, 1539 Mission Drive, Solvang.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO TUESDAYS

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ALBARIÑO FLIGHT AT CROMA VERA WINES

Taste five years of our Albariño. Waived with a two-bottle purchase. Half-off for members. June 22 , 1-7 p.m. and June 23 1-6 p.m. $35. 805-946-1685. cromavera.com/blogs/ news/may-eventsat-the-tasting-room.

Croma Vera Wines, 3183 Duncan Road, Suite D, San Luis Obispo.

INNOV8TIVE

NUTRITION: NATIONAL TASTING

TOUR Innov8tive’s Tasting Tour is making a stop in SLO, and you won’t want to miss tasting cutting-edge, nutritional supplements for FR33. A portion of the proceeds goes to local non-profit, Central Coast Funds for Children, that fundraises for vulnerable children in SLO County. June 22 10 a.m.-noon Contact for more details. 805-316-3893. Embassy Suites, 333 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

SUNSET WINE/RAIL EXCURSION: SANTA BARBARA These fully-hosted, docent-led excursions will depart from the SLO Railroad Museum at 11 a.m. taking a motor coach to the Santa Barbara Wine Collective. June 22 my805tix.com. San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, 1940 Santa Barbara Ave., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-1894.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

ABOUT TIME LIVE Enjoy live music outdoors at the Stockyard. June 30 Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777, blast825brewery.com/.

BOYS OF SUMMER Enjoy live music outdoors at the Stockyard. June 30 my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777.

FAIR WARNING AND BEST SHOT A tribute show to Pat Benatar and Van Halen. June 22 , 6 p.m. my805tix.com/. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777.

HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine. com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, 805-937-8110.

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.

THE LEGENDS Enjoy live music outdoors at the Stockyard. June 29 Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777, blast825brewery.com/.

LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR Enjoy live music most Fridays at the venue. Call venue or check website to find out who’s performing. Fridays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

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.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY

Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. 805925-0464. coelhomusic.com/ Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. 805-478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.

ROCK ODYSSEY LIVE Rock out to your favorite classic hits by Tom Petty, Journey, Blondie, and more. June 22 , 6-9 p.m. my805tix.com.

Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria, 805 937-8463.

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

DIRTY CELLO LIVE Gates open at 2:30 p.m. June 30, 3 p.m. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK LIVE June 28

8 p.m. $39-$69. Chumash Casino Resort, 3400 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez, 800-248-6274, chumashcasino.com/entertainment.

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

MUSIC IN THE GARDEN This ongoing summer concert series spotlights a variety of musical acts. Afternoon performances held on various Sunday afternoons throughout the summer. Through Sept. 1 Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang, 805-686-1789.

SALASTINA AT MISSION SANTA INÉS Wrapping up in Santa Ynez with a public performance of Hummel and Brahms — in a Mission built in 1804. This also includes access to a self-guided tour of the Mission before or after the concert. June 23 3-5 p.m. $40 general admission; $10 students. salastina.org/ concerts/2024/6/23/salastina-at-mission-santainez. Old Mission Santa Ines, 1760 Mission Drive, Solvang.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

BANDA INVASORA Table reservations recommended. June 29 9 p.m. my805tix.com. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714. LIVE ORCHESTRA CONCERT: BROADWAY COMES TO THE POPS Performing hits from America’s best musicals, the Lompoc Pops Orchestra returns to center stage on Sunday afternoon, June 23. June 23 4 p.m. $25. 805-7331796. LompocPopsOrchestra.com. First United Methodist Church, 925 North F St., Lompoc. PRIVADA AND MORE Enjoy live Latin music from featured acts. June 22 9 p.m. my805tix.com. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714. YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY GROVER BEACH SUMMER CONCERTS 2024 Featuring some of best local and regional bands all summer long. Food, craft vendors, and activities for the kids. Free and all ages welcome. Sundays, 3-6 p.m. through Aug. 18 Free. 805-473-4580. groverbeach.org. Ramona Garden Park Center, 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.

A HOLLYWOOD FAMILY DANCE Hosted by the City of Arroyo Grande Recreation Department. Enjoy a delicious dinner, desserts, live Dj music, family activities, photo ops, and more. Bring the whole family for a night of dancing Hollywoodstyle. June 21 $48 per couple. 805-473-5472. arroyogrande.org. Heritage House and Gardens, 126 S. Mason, Arroyo Grande.

MOFUNK LIVE With seasoned musicians and great energy, the group guarantees to keep the crowd dancing and entertained. June 22 7 p.m. my805tix.com. Ribline by the Beach, 395 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach. SUMMER SOLSTICE PARTY WITH THE CLIFFNOTES IN AVILA The official kick off of summer is funner with The Cliffnotes and their New Orleans-flavored rock (with a little reggae, classic rock, and Americana) in Avila Bay for sunset cocktails at Mulligan’s. Kid-friendly too. June 21 5-7 p.m. Free. 805-595-4000. avilabeachresort.com/mulligans. Mulligans Bar and Grill, 6460 Ana Bay Road, Avila Beach. SAN LUIS OBISPO

BRAINSOIL 7: CELESTIAL COALESCENCE Theme: Zodiac. With live band, DJ, neon painting, food, and drinks. Dress as your Zodiac sign. June 22 , 5:22-11:11 p.m. my805tix.com. Drew Davis Fine Art, 393 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.

DANNYLUX LIVE AT THE FREMONT THEATER All ages welcome. Doors open at 7 p.m. June 22 8 p.m. $35. .fremontslo.com. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-546-8600.

MANUEL THE BAND AND JINEANNE

CODERRE: CONCERTS IN THE PLAZA Features Jineanne Coderre (pop/R&B) at

ARTS BRIEFS

Solvang

Theaterfest announces new executive director and assistant director

Chantel Green—who has served as assistant director and director of development under Solvang Theaterfest’s retiring Executive Director Scott Coe—recently took the reins as the local nonprofit’s new executive director.

Solvang Theaterfest also announced the appointment of Ashley Esdaile as its new assistant director. For the past year, Esdaile (pictured, right) served as the organization’s executive Aassistant and bookkeeper.

In press materials, Green (pictured, left) expressed excitement about continuing to foster “a culture of amazing music and entertainment in the Santa Ynez Valley,” referring to Solvang Theaterfest’s Music in the Garden series, which began on June 2 and will include live music events throughout the summer.

Green also promoted “our fantastic fall season, with more exciting events to come,” including a fall lineup of live comedy and music acts to take the Solvang Festival Theater’s stage in September, October, and November.

To find out more about Solvang Theaterfest and its upcoming events, visit solvangtheaterfest.org. The Solvang Festival Theater will host PCPA productions during this summer as well.

Oceano Community Services District holds local Repair Café program

With a focus on waste prevention and saving repairable items from ending up in a landfill, Five Cities Repair Café is a group of savvy volunteers who regularly host free community events, including its next program at the Oceano Community Services District (OCSD) on Saturday, June 22, from 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Attendees of the event are welcome to bring in various items or appliances in need of repairs to be fixed for free. The group is used to repairing cameras, computers, phones, tablets, lamps, jewelry, clothing, toys, bikes, outdoor gear, and more.

According to the Five Cities Repair Café’s website, the nonprofit hosted its inaugural event in Grover Beach in 2019. Through the Repair Café Foundation, there are more than 2,000 Repair Café initiatives worldwide.

The international foundation began in 2011 with Dutch organizer Martine Postma, who hosted the first Repair Café event of its kind in Amsterdam in 2009. Postma started the movement in the lobby of her local cinema, where she and a group of handy neighbors set up events to fix broken items, according to the Five Cities Repair Café’s website.

To find out more about the nonprofit and its Five Cities chapter, visit repaircafe.org and repaircafe5cities.org, respectively. Admission to the Repair Café event in Oceano is free. The OCSD is located at 1655 Front St., Oceano. m

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

From roads to waves

The Great American Melodrama’s Pirates of Pismo-A-Go-Go is a hilarious adaptation of The Pirates of Penzance

BY SAMANTHA HERRERA

The age-old battle that young people must face—exploring the freedom of adulthood or remaining true to prior commitments— takes center stage during the Great American Melodrama’s Pirates of Pismo-A-Go-Go

In an adaptation of The Pirates of Penzance, New York-based actor Jeffrey Laughrun takes the stage as Frederic, an inexperienced boy who’s spent his life on the road with the Pirate King’s motorcycle gang and now at the ripe age of 21 wants to break free and live out his lifelong dream of being a surfer.

However, his overbearing and slightly lustful nanny, played by Jill Price, isn’t ready for Freddy to fly the coop yet and looks to do everything in her power to make him stay with the Pirate King. But

Freddy doesn’t really care about his nanny’s pleas for him to stay and immediately sets out to Pismo Beach to go surf some waves.

While every actor was incredible and made the play an enjoyable and hilarious experience, I have to say that Price really stole the show. As soon as I sat down with my Hazy IPA and nachos, Price hopped on the stage and gave us a very warm and welcoming introduction to the play ahead. With a venue that’s small and intimate, I really felt like she was speaking to me personally and not just to the audience as a whole. Which is a nice touch for those who want to attend the play alone like I did.

Overwhelmed with the number of babes on the beach, Freddy finds himself in conversation with three friends who want a boy-free day. However,

Gangs and surf

Pirates of Pismo-A-Go-Go is showing at The Great American Melodrama through July 6 on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 7 p.m.; Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday at 6 p.m. For more information, visit americanmelodrama.com.

their efforts are for naught after Freddy falls for Mabel, a free-spirited surfer girl who loves the beach and wants to protect it from those who would ruin it. Despite the protests of her friends, played by both Price and Dillon Giles, Mabel returns Freddy’s feelings.

Mabel was played by Annaliese Chambers, who did a brilliant job making her debut at the Great American Melodrama after returning to the states from touring around China. I loved watching her perform; every time she took to the stage she charmed me with her facial expressions, beautiful voice, and high enthusiasm.

While I could go on for hours about the wonderful aspects each actor brought to the show, the relationship between Mabel’s friends was amusing through the whole two-hour viewing.

But they weren’t the only ones. Freddy and Mabel gave a hilarious account of how fast teenagers tend to fall in love. Also, their voices blended perfectly, giving the already amusing couple a nice touch.

However, their 45-minute love affair nearly comes to an end when the Pirate King returns to Pismo Beach to remind Freddy that since he was born on Feb. 29, and leap year only comes every four years, he isn’t technically 21 and he must return to the pirate gang and go through his gang initiation.

That’s when we find out his initiation is to kiss a girl without asking permission and that the Pirate King hasn’t been through the initiation himself because the act is so devilish. Yet Mabel comes to Freddy’s aid and tells him although they have only been dating for an hour, he is allowed to kiss her. With good beer, decent food that gets served to you by the friendly and truly excited to be there cast, and a small venue, I had a blast and so will those who go to watch the show. m

Reach New Times Staff Writer Samantha Herrera, from the Sun’s sister paper, at sherrera@ newtimesslo.com.

tells Mabel (Annaliese Chambers) that he must go back to the Pirate King’s motorcycle gang. Therefore, he needs to leave the

and

COURTESY PHOTO BY JESSICA ZOPPO PHOTOGRAPHY

WAIT WHAT: Freddy (Jeffrey Laughrun)

beach, the waves, the surf,

regrettably her.

TEENAGE BLISS: Meeting on the sands of Pismo Beach, Mabel (Annaliese Chambers) goes against her friends’ warnings (Jill Price, far left and Dillon Giles, far right) and falls for Freddy (Jeffrey Laughrun).

PHOTO COURTESY OF FIVE CITIES REPAIR CAFE

HAPPILY EVER AFTER: At the end of Pirates of Pismo-A-Go-Go, the gang gets introduced to Mabel’s friends.

THE GANG: The Pirate King’s Motorcycle gang makes its way to Pismo Beach to collect Freddy from his day in the sun and initiate him to become a real member.

PHOTOS COURTSEY OF STACY HALVORSEN

Master of disguise

Inspired by a true story, co-writer/director Richard Linklater’s Hit Man follows Gary Johnson (Glen Powell), a college professor by day and undercover mole for the New Orleans police by night. Disguised as a hit man, Johnson gets assigned to entrap various suspects looking to employ him as a contract killer. (115 min.)

Editor’s note: Regular reviewers Glen and Anna Starkey took this week off from Sun Screen.

Caleb: I don’t know how Hit Man fell under my radar. My TikTok feed doesn’t throw a lot of Glen Powell content my way, but I’m surprised my algorithm didn’t put me on some kind of film junkie list to alert me of director Richard Linklater’s latest project and get-readywith-me routines. Like so many of Linklater’s movies, Hit Man shows he’s a chameleon filmmaker. Between his comedies (Dazed and Confused, School of Rock), dramas (Before Sunrise, Boyhood ), and unnerving thrillers (Tape, A Scanner Darkly), he’s undeniably versatile. I had no idea Hit Man was his until the end credits. He co-wrote the film with its heartthrob star, Powell, who seems to be having the time of his life playing a college professor who moonlights as an undercover contractor for the New Orleans police. During sting operations, Gary Johnson (Powell) pretends to be a hit man and tricks suspects into hiring him, while garnering confessions and payment from them to ensure their swift arrests. With each suspect, Johnson switches up his appearance—with an array of wigs and fake teeth—and mannerisms, partly in a way to cater to the person he’s targeting.

What’s

Where’s

Sometimes he’s a suave badass in a leather jacket, other times he’s a pool boy with a mullet. Inspired by a nearly stranger-thanfiction true story, Hit Man is quite a ride that not only made me laugh a lot but had me at the edge of my seat at times too.

Bulbul: Not to be confused with the very different Hit Man (2007) starring Timothy Olyphant in a bald cap, Powell’s slicked-back blond version emerges as the superior of the two. It’s got all the makings of a summer blockbuster even though it went straight to Netflix. Perhaps the makers of this movie wanted to play it safe with Bad Boys: Ride or Die raking in the moolah in theaters. It’s fun seeing Powell flex his acting chops as he assumes each persona to trap New Orleans’ more violent denizens. Even though his default personality is of nerdy loner Gary Johnson, that character appears to be a ludicrous bit as well. The suave, conventionally attractive Powell takes center stage when he breaks protocol to dissuade a mysterious client Madison Figueroa Masters (Adria Arjona) from killing her abusive husband. What ensues is a rom-com-thriller that’s a juggling act of false identities. It made me want to read Skip Hollandsworth’s Hit Man article on the real Gary Johnson for Texas Monthly, just to see how true to life the movie is.

Caleb: This isn’t Linklater’s first rodeo when it comes to adapting Hollandsworth’s work. Another of the journalist’s true crime articles inspired the dark comedy Bernie (2011), which Hollandsworth also co-wrote the screenplay for with Linklater. Powell’s been a recurring actor in Linklater’s films over the years, since

SEX AND THE CITY

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 1998-2004

Where’s it showing? Max, Netflix

After years of people recommending the show and not knowing the answer when I was asked whether I was a Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, or Miranda, I finally decided to hop on the train and watch the 25-year-old HBO series Sex and the City. Now on season 5 after only a few months of watching the show, I completely understand why people say it’s iconic and (somewhat) timeless.

Launched in 1998 and based off the book by Candace Bushnell, the series follows Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker), a sex columnist, and her three friends—Samantha (Kim Cattrall), Charlotte (Kristin Davis), and Miranda (Cynthia

Nixon)—as they navigate being single and dating in their 30s in New York City. From the impeccable fashion and setting to the clever writing and humor, it’s easy to fall in love with the show after the first episode alone. The women each navigate relationships, marriage, cheating, sex, breakups, and onenight stands, but they always come back together at the end of the day.

Every once and a while you can see the show’s age— particularly around the women’s discussions about gay women and bisexual people—but most episodes feel like they could happen today. My favorite part is that it’s centered on the women’s friendship, support, and love for one another. It’s definitely a show I’d come back to for comfort, bouncing around again from season to season. (six seasons, approx. 30-min episodes)

—Taylor O’Connor

Hit Man marks their first collaboration as writing partners though, and I hope it’s the first of many. It’s an absolute blast thanks to its clever script and kinetic cast. Walking Dead fans will recognize Austin Amelio as Jasper, a rival undercover agent who loses his mole role to Johnson due to alcoholism and a brutal incident of excessive force. He finds a slimy opportunity to swindle his way back in though after unraveling a real murder case he suspects Johnson may be a key player in.

Bulbul: Hit Man the movie definitely takes some creative liberties to maintain an upbeat entertaining feel throughout. Hollandsworth’s account is a bit more grim. I did feel like the creators already had their picturesque ending in mind while they were adapting the article.

MONK

What’s it rated? TV-PG When? 2002-2009

Where’s it showing? Peacock, Netflix

Nearly crippled by the loss of his wife and his OCD coping mechanisms, detective Adrian Monk (Tony Shalhoub) keeps busy as a consultant for his former commanding officer, Capt. Leland Stottlemeyer (Ted Levine), at the San Francisco Police Department, solving otherwise unsolvable crimes. Monk’s obsessive-compulsive tendencies give him a near Sherlock Holmes-level of attention to detail, which works exceptionally well on the crime scenes, and not so well everywhere else. Fortunately, he’s got the help of his nurse/assistant Sharona Fleming (Bitty Schram) in the first three seasons and Natalie Teeger (Traylor Howard) in the rest of the series. He’s also got

It appeared rushed, and there are definitely some loose ends that were brushed off. But Hit Man seemed aware of this, with Johnson throwing in a line about how he and his new lover will eventually ease out the kinks of a job half-done as the opportunity presents itself. It’s an updated Bonnie and Clyde, and I probably shouldn’t overthink a feel-good summer action (ish?) flick. Bring out your backyard projector or gather your friends around a TV. Hit Man is best enjoyed with cool company and chilled drinks on a balmy night. m

New Times Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal and Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood filled in for Glen and Anna Starkey this week. Email your thoughts to gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

the ongoing counsel of his therapist, Charles Kroger (Stanley Kamel) in the first six seasons and then Neven Bell (Hector Elizondo) for the last two seasons.

I’m only in the third season of this beloved comedy-drama mystery series, and it’s a light and fun evening watch. For fans of more current production levels and intense mysteries or police procedurals (myself included), Monk is a little soft on the mysteries, but what it lacks in intensity it makes up in charm. It’s easy to see why Shalhoub won three Best Comedy Actor Emmy Awards—he’s endearing and captivating as Monk, who’s haunted by the unsolved mystery of his wife’s death, dogged by his inability to get back on the police force, and propelled to solve crimes that Stottlemeyer can’t pin down. And the oddcouple relationship between him and Sharona is both hilarious and touching. (eight seasons, approx. 45-min episodes) m —Andrea Rooks

his role as Steve in 2006’s Fast Food Nation

FATAL ATTRACTION: An undercover mole (Glen Powell, left) pretending to be a hit man gets dangerously close to a client (Adria Arjona, right) who hires him to kill her husband, in Netflix’s Hit Man

Pan-do attitude

Sellers of cookware, cookbooks, and more set up shop at 11 local wineries

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Built to last generations, some skillets and pans available at an upcoming multi-venue market were hand forged from carbon steel plate by master blacksmith Dennis Kehoe.

When local event organizer Kelly Fiore set out to curate the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail’s inaugural Makers Market Crawl, Kehoe and similar crafters came to mind as shoo-ins for the program’s vendor spaces.

“I tend to hand select vendors that I want to personally shop from and ones that I think will resonate with the audience, as well as the theme in this case,” Fiore told the Sun in an email interview.

“He [Kehoe] makes beautiful and functional hand-forged cookware, truly a work of art,” said Fiore, the founder of Pop Up Project.

Her company produces communityfocused and family-friendly events throughout the Santa Ynez Valley, and this summer’s Makers Market Crawl marks her latest effort. The main events will be held on July 20 and 21 at 11 wineries located along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail.

Leading up to the crawl, there will be about two weeks’ worth of gift giveaways online, Fiore added.

“I am very thankful that my vendors and vineyard partners have been gracious enough to offer up some of their products for a giveaway promotion,” said Fiore, who recommends following Pop Up Project on social media for updates on snagging those giveaways.

While admission to all of the Makers Market Crawl events is free, attendees will have the option to purchase a $60 passport that grants them wine tastings and shopping discounts at each winery on the docket along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail.

Spanning a 30-mile stretch of countryside between Los Olivos and Santa Maria, the Wine Trail “is such a beautiful slice of paradise … that I feel is often overlooked by locals,” Fiore said.

“Unless we have friends in town that are looking for the wine country experience, it’s out of sight, out of mind for many,” the organizer said. “Since this event is free and open to the public, I hope that it will engage our local community and encourage them to

Trail blazing

For more info on Makers Market Crawl’s participating wineries located along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, visit foxencanyonwinetrail.net. The Makers Market Crawl will include festivities at 11 featured wineries between Los Olivos and Santa Maria on Saturday, July 20, and Sunday, July 21.

come out and experience the wine trail in a new way and be reminded of how lovely it is, and how wonderful these properties are.”

The 11 participating wineries along the Wine Trail are Andrew Murray Vineyards, Bien Nacido Estate, Riverbench Vineyard and Winery, Rancho Sisquoc Winery, Cottonwood Canyon, Foxen Winery, Zaca Mesa Winery and Vineyards, Fess Parker Winery and Vineyard, Koehler Winery, Firestone Vineyard, and So Far Out.

Pop Up Project’s website specifies the crawl’s full schedule of happenings at each of these venues, including book signings with cookbook author and comedian Anna Vocino at Riverbench Vineyard and Winery, clay artisans and clothing boutiques at Bien Nacido Estate, and more.

“One thing that I was especially excited about when crafting this weekend experience was the ability to theme all of the markets,” Fiore said. “There are so many wonderful vendors

AND REFLECT: Dogs are welcome at the various

events, as long as they’re

SUMMER SIPPING: Food vendors and craft merchants are set to converge at 11 wineries during the inaugural Makers Market Crawl—two days of activities along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail in July.

PHOTOS

SKILLET SKILLS: In conjunction with the upcoming Makers Market Crawl, Riverbench Vineyard and Winery will have booths selling handcrafted cookware and culinary products from Kehoe Carbon Cookware, Clem’s Knives, and Sola Ceramics on Saturday, July 21.

PAWS

Makers Market Crawl

21, Firestone Vineyards’ market

organizer Kelly Fiore said.

that offer really unique products or services, and I was thrilled to be able to create markets with them in mind.”

At Andrew Murray Vineyards, for example, the market’s theme is “sustainable” and will feature thrifted fashion and home goods, a botanical dyeing workshop, and repurposed wearables.

“I definitely will be picking up a few pieces from Red Wagon Wardrobe. Cayden Naughton is a seamstress that upcycles quilts, tablecloths, and secondhand fabrics into beautiful, one-ofa-kind clothing,” Fiore said. “I have my eye on many pieces she has made.”

SEASONED CURATOR: The Makers Market Crawl was curated by Pop Up Project founder Kelly Fiore. With more than 20 years of experience in marketing and event production, Fiore told the Sun that “designing these types of events is my favorite form of creative expression.”

Regardless of theme, each market will include at least one complimentary kids craft activity, said Fiore, who listed leather charm necklaces, tissue paper flowers, fabric friendship bracelets, and lavender sachets among the kidfriendly projects.

“There will be something to keep them busy at each market,” Fiore said. “I have three school-age children and there aren’t a lot of familyfriendly events in the Valley, so I am excited to be able to weave them into this experience as well.”

While each of the 11 markets has family appeal, the market at Fess Parker Winery and Vineyard is specifically themed as “kids,” with face painting, ice cream bars for sale, children’s handmade clothing vendors, and a custom hat merchant that Fiore is pretty excited about.

“I will most certainly be creating myself a custom cap from Gray Rain Hat Bar,” the organizer said. “I am a huge cheerleader for my boys at the baseball field and want to create myself a hat with some fun patches and their numbers.” m

Arts Editor Caleb Wiseblood’s favorite Monopoly token is the top hat. Fill his hat with comments at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

CLASSIES

Reach over 150,000 readers weekly from Santa Ynez to San Miguel Get your classified ad—for Free!

Private parties may run FREE classified ads in the FOR SALE (items under $200) and GARAGE SALE sections for two weeks

CAREGIVERS NEEDED

CAREGIVERS (2 openings) sought by Helen’s Residence in Santa Maria, CA. Assist with daily act of elderly, conval/PWD at the facility.

REQ: Six (6) months of experience providing care for the elderly/adults. Apply to:

ATTN: Resumes, Helen’s Residence, 1653 N Alison Ave. Santa Maria, CA 93454.

805-310-8180

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