BY TAYLOR
O’CONNOR
DreamHome
STIs, emergency care, and substance use are some of the health issues facing the unhoused population that calls the Santa Maria Riverbed home. Nonprofits and local agencies providing health services to encamped residents and those transitioning to temporary housing situations said it’s been challenging to stay in contact with some of the folks who need help as they move. That can impact treating things like hepatitis C and syphilis, which require repeated treatments. Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor spoke with officials and nonprofits in both counties for this week’s story [6]
This week, you can also read about what Santa Barbara County’s doing to try to help Del Cielo mobile home park residents [4]; the local chapter of the California Writers Club [22]; and where the events for this year’s Santa Barbara County Vintners Fest are happening [25]
Camillia Lanham editor
Rooftop Patio at Toyota of Santa Maria 1643 South Bradley, Santa Maria
Luxury Condos
• Assembly Bill X2-1, co-written by Assemblymembers Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) and Cecillia AguiarCurry (D-Davis), passed the Assembly floor with a 44-17 vote and will advance to the Senate, according to an Oct. 1 statement from Hart’s office. Designed to bring stability to California’s oil market, the bill requires refineries to maintain sufficient fuel reserves to prevent the supply shortages that drive up gas prices and burden consumers. California’s oil market is uniquely vulnerable, according to Hart’s office. The state’s air quality standards and isolated fuels market mean that prices can be impacted by supply disruptions. Nearly all in-state supply comes from a handful of refineries— three in Northern California and five in Southern California, with only one small refinery in Central California. A single refinery outage could drastically reduce refining capacity, by up to 45 percent in Northern California and 35 percent in Southern California. This volatility, combined with the higher costs compared to other states, has placed an undue burden on residents with fixed or limited incomes and strained the broader economy. “The Assembly took a stand for California consumers today. The facts are clear—when gas prices spike, it costs everyday Californians billions at the pump, while the oil industry profits,” Assemblymember Hart said in the statement. “AB X2-1 will hold oil refineries accountable and promote fuel market stability. Pricegouging at the pump should not be the norm. I look forward to advancing this bill in the Senate.”
• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) joined several of his colleagues in sending a letter to California Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin and Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Director Tony Tavares urging the state to eliminate redundant, costly federal environmental reviews for major transportation projects, according to an Oct. 3 statement from Carbajal’s office. Federal law since 2015 has allowed Caltrans to apply to the U.S. Department of Transportation to substitute state-prepared environmental reviews under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in lieu of completing a second, unnecessary federal environmental review at additional taxpayer expense. In January 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation finalized the necessary regulations to implement this 2015 pilot authority so that states with high environmental standards like California could apply to substitute their state environmental reviews for federally funded transportation projects. “This common-sense reform would effectively cut California’s permitting backlog in half for major transportation infrastructure projects statewide, keeping road, public transit, and rail improvements on time and under budget,” the lawmakers wrote in their letter. “Californians deserve both world-class transportation infrastructure and their fair share of the generational federal investment under the Biden-Harris administration’s 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. That requires your agency and department to further streamline the environmental permitting for major projects by eliminating redundant federal [National Environmental Policy Act] reviews.”
• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) announced that 15 California local governments were awarded $95 million from the National Park Service (NPS) to upgrade outdoor recreation spaces in underserved communities, according to a Sept. 30 statement from Padilla’s office. The funding comes from the NPS Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Grants Program and will support park projects in urban neighborhoods where residents currently have few outdoor recreation opportunities. Padilla and U.S. Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) led the bipartisan Outdoors for All Act, which would codify the popular Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program into law and make improvements to it. The program awards grants to urban and low-income communities around the country to improve outdoor recreation infrastructure, revitalize local economies, and enhance the quality of life in these neighborhoods. Padilla also leads a funding request for this critical program through the annual appropriations process. “Everyone deserves access to outdoor parks and green spaces no matter their ZIP code,” Sen. Padilla said in a statement. “Growing up in Los Angeles, I know firsthand that far too many urban, low-income communities like mine lack sufficient access to green parks, shady spaces, and clean air. This significant investment in California urban parks will grow more active, healthier neighborhoods while supporting climate resilience in vulnerable communities.” m
Santa Barbara County will add a moratorium and overlay to protect senior mobile home parks
Months of advocacy efforts from senior mobile home residents are paying off as the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted to move forward with greater protections for some of the county’s most vulnerable residents.
“You really brought this forward,” 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps told the senior residents who attended the Oct. 10 meeting. “I’m all for exploring this moratorium and overlay to make sure we protect these places that have been serving seniors successfully.”
Supervisors unanimously approved steps toward a moratorium that would prevent 55-andolder mobile home parks from being converted to all ages until the county can create an overlay—a countywide ordinance that would preserve existing senior parks.
The discussion came about after several senior park residents approached the supervisors, ringing the alarm bells after Del Cielo Mobile Home Estates—an Orcutt-based 55-and-older mobile home park—came under new ownership and management.
Harmony Communities, a Stockton-based mobile home property management company, took over in May and served residents with a sixmonth notice to convert Del Cielo to an all-ages community. Neighboring communities feared that other management companies would follow suit.
“I had some conversations with management from the new ownership and they argued that affordability should be available for all people, not just seniors,” 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson said during the meeting.
Del Cielo is part of his district, and he spearheaded the work to manage the situation.
In early conversations with Del Cielo’s new property manager, Nelson said that Harmony Communities claimed there was only a “vocal minority” who were against the all-ages conversion. As a result, Nelson’s office mailed out ballots to all 185 units in the park and received
like neighboring Ventura County. If a park went through a conversion process and the county applied its overlay later, the park would be “nonconforming” with the overlay, Plowman said.
Fourth District Supervisor Nelson added that this decision would also prevent other parks from converting.
“I’m all for going down the road of looking at a moratorium right now while we explore an overlay and examine that as quickly as possible and as much as we potentially can use some of our neighbors in Ventura and other neighbors,” Nelson said. “A lot of communities are having similar discussions, as much as we can dive into those and borrow some of the other ordinances and lessons learned so we can have a more expeditious process—all the better in my opinion.”
—Taylor O’Connor
Lompoc rules in favor of $5 base electric rate without yearly increases
There are roughly 260 households in Lompoc that the city considers “zero usage customers” when it comes to electricity, according to Management Services Director Christie Donnelly.
In other words, these houses’ lights are rarely ever on, and nobody’s home, “in most cases,” Donnelly said at the Lompoc City Council’s Oct. 1 meeting.
“We look at those and say those are most likely … vacant homes that have meters,” Donnelly said during a discussion on the city’s electric rate structure. “[They’re] potentially bank-owned, or potentially [owned by] people who live here seasonally.”
121 responses—of which 120 stated they wanted to stay senior-only and one was open to an allages park.
“My position on this would be that it’s all of the above. We shouldn’t find affordability for all ages at the expense of seniors who have an investment-backed expectation to be able to have a community that is like-minded, like-aged, likedemographics,” Nelson said.
Santa Barbara County’s unincorporated communities have 21 mobile home parks, with 11 providing the 55-and-older age restrictions (1,800 of the total 2,400 spaces), Planning and Development Department Assistant Director Jeffrey Wilson told supervisors. Orcutt is providing the greatest amount of age-restricted mobile homes at 62 percent of the county’s senior park inventory.
State law allows age restrictions as long as it’s 55 and older with the main condition that 80 percent of the owners are older than 55.
“We haven’t found any regulations as far as the conversion process,” Wilson said. “It really defaults to the owner-operator to make that business decision from seniors-only to all-age.”
Based on state and federal laws, Santa Barbara County can implement a moratorium if there’s “a current or immediate threat to public health, safety, or welfare,” he said.
County Planning Department staff still need to hash out moratorium details—which must come back to the board—and 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino worried about the time crunch with only one month left on Del Cielo’s six-month notice.
“Any action we take generally takes a while for us to accomplish it. So what stops a conversion? Is it a moratorium that stops it from taking place while we go down the road of building an overlay and what does that look like?” he asked. “Obviously, what I’m talking about today you could have an operator change their mind tomorrow and it’ll take us months to get there.”
Planning and Development Director Lisa Plowman confirmed the moratorium’s role and said it wouldn’t take staff a “substantial amount of time” to develop a moratorium and the following overlay because there are good models out there,
Regardless of how little electricity they use, these customers are currently subject to a monthly $5 fixed charge, even if they don’t flip a single light switch on all month. Donnelly explained that this fixed rate is necessary to keep one class of electric customers from subsidizing another.
“Without a base customer charge, higher use customers are subsidizing lower usage customers,” Donnelly said.
The fixed fee came up when staff presented the City Council with four separate approaches to gradually adjust the city’s monthly electric billing to avoid future rate spikes.
One of the approaches was identical to staff’s original proposal—to increase the fixed fee to $11, and $5 more each year going forward—which received pushback and was ultimately tabled by the City Council in September.
Among the new approaches to consider, one option completely eliminates the charge, which Councilmember Victor Vega favored.
“This push for the mandatory minimum fee, I’m still not sold on,” Vega said. “It’s mostly a benefit to the city, and not the residents. … It’s basically just meant to shore up the boat for the people you think aren’t paying their fair share. I don’t think it’s beneficial for the residential customers.”
Councilmember Jeremy Ball expressed support for both the zero base rate option and another route that would maintain the $5 flat fee. Ball said the original approach and an additional alternative—which keeps the starting fixed charge at $5—are unfair to customers that make efforts to conserve electricity.
“There’s no more incentive for them to conserve power because they just have a cost now,” Ball said. “It doesn’t matter if a private citizen conserved; it doesn’t matter if a small business conserved in scenarios one and two, because … their rate is going to go up.”
Councilmember Gilda Aiello motioned for the City Council to accept staff’s proposal that maintains the $5 flat fee without yearly increases. However, as with all four options, the route includes cost increases based on individual customers’ electricity use, put in place to prevent future rate spikes that affect all customers.
ACTION ALLIANCE: After Del Cielo Mobile Home Estates residents advocated for a moratorium and overlay to protect senior mobile home parks, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to add these to county ordinances.
The current average bill for electric customers in Lompoc is $61.40, according to staff, while the new rate structure (accepted by the council after a 4-1 vote, with Vega dissenting) is projected to increase that average to $66.28 in its first year, $73.04 in its second year, and $79.81 in its third year.
—Caleb Wiseblood
Santa Maria City Council explores tax increases and fees to fill budget gap
Facing a $21 million budget deficit in the upcoming fiscal year, Santa Maria is pondering a sugar tax, a cannabis tax, and/or charging fees for emergency services as ways to inject revenue and avoid dipping into city reserves.
“These are outside the norm that we have done in the past,” interim City Manager Alex Posada told the Santa Maria City Council during its Oct. 1 meeting. “We really don’t see another option simply through the budget cut process.”
Santa Maria’s ongoing general fund and Measure U expenditures outpaced the city’s incoming revenue, resulting in the $21 million deficit for the 2024-25 fiscal year and a projected $20 million deficit for 2025-26. During budget hearings in June, city staff proposed pulling $21.3 million in reserves to balance the 2024-25 budget. However, if the city chose that direction, it would have nothing left over to fill the 2025-26 gap.
With the City Council reluctant to approve more taxes, Santa Maria evaluated where it could save money internally but found that the city needed to do more to generate dollars. City staff created a tiered reduction system that cut $14.8 million total from various departments, according to the staff report. But the city wanted to see $16.7 million in reductions in order to make up for the deficit.
“We don’t really see another option simply through the budget cut process. The budget reductions are significant that are being proposed in that budget reduction,” Posada said. “It can’t be stand-alone. We really need to look at how we can increase revenue.”
Interim Finance Director Xenia Bradford presented a 4 percent increase to transient occupancy tax to match neighboring jurisdictions as the city’s hotel tax “continues to underperform”; a half-percent sales tax increase that could bring in an estimated $13.5 million; a utility user tax that could raise an estimated $1 million; and a cannabis tax that could generate an additional $300,000 to $2 million to the city.
Third District Council Member Gloria Soto suggested adding a sugar tax, which would tax beverages that contain added sugar.
“That is something that would not only benefit public health, but could also raise a significant amount of revenue,” she said.
The city based its estimates on neighboring jurisdictions and cities that use these taxes in order to create the estimates.
The majority of the proposed increases would need voter approval. While the city wouldn’t see generated revenue right away, it still needs to look at getting more general fund dollars in its piggy bank, interim City Manager Posada added.
Several council members were hesitant to pull the trigger on exploring fire and medical response fees and debated cannabis, as the city never allowed its growth or sale within its boundaries, but they agreed that they needed to explore every option.
“I can’t see letting anything go, and as much as I oppose the introduction to cannabis in the community. It would be a hard pull for me to vote for it, but I don’t think it should be something we should not look at,” 2nd District Councilmember Mike Cordero said. “The numbers are the numbers.” m
—Taylor O’Connor
Grand Opening Party October 19th 40% Off Storewide October 17-20
Santa Maria’s First Cannabis Dispensary is now open, and we’re throwing a party you don’t want to miss!
Free Santa Maria Style BBQ, Slushies, Music & More!
Mobile health care
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR
yphilis. Hepatitis C. Wounds. Poor dental hygiene. Domestic violence. Substance use. These are some of the concerns Raye Fleming and her team at the Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo (CAPSLO) have noticed since beginning their services in the Santa Maria Riverbed.
“We’ve also found a lot of primary care issues, and 5Cities Homeless Coalition has gotten them into private providers or into clinics so that they can get those met,” said Fleming, CAPSLO’s health services director. “We can do basic wound care, but we are a reproductive health care clinic, and so what we provide is, you know, all methods of birth control, and we test for all STIs and we can treat for most STIs.”
CAPSLO received a $500,000 American Rescue Plan Act grant during the pandemic to purchase a mobile health care clinic to serve SLO County’s “outlying areas” with limited access to care, Fleming said. As CAPSLO formed its services, it had a grant from Dignity Health to provide services in Grover Beach at 5Cities Homeless Coalition’s Cabins for Change.
“5Cities Homeless Coalition has a team of three people that do outreach, and they’ve been going down to the riverbed to talk to them about their needs and obviously housing, and what they started to discover were medical issues,” Fleming said.
Those issues prompted her organization to show up alongside 5CHC to provide reproductive health care services.
An estimated 110 to 150 people once lived in the Santa Maria Riverbed when both SLO and Santa Barbara counties, in partnership with Caltrans and the city of Santa Maria, began a phased encampment cleanup process in July. Caltrans spearheaded its effort under the Highway 101 bridge in September, and the coordinated effort moved west in October.
As cleanups occurred, nonprofit organizations teamed up to provide health care, syringe exchange, animal care, food, water, and shower services every Tuesday—with dental care scheduled to come online on Oct. 8.
Santa Maria’s Good Samaritan Shelter had eight clients come into the Santa Maria emergency shelter and 10 to Hope Village, Santa Maria’s interim housing facility on county-owned property, Good Sam Director of Homeless Services Kirsten Cahoon told the Sun. SLO County’s side has struggled keeping up with the housing demand, with 5CHC experiencing a waiting list of 200 to 300 people.
Despite efforts to be consistent and build trust with the encampment’s population, it’s been challenging for service providers to stay in contact with some folks in the riverbed as they move during the cleanups.
“What it really is, is the people just move to another location. It’s not solved,” Fleming said. “I’m unsure about what the solution is for just moving people around in the riverbed, because that’s what happens. That’s their home. They don’t have any other place to go.”
The riverbed is a dangerous and unsanitary place for community members to live, and leaving them there allows for more health concerns and issues to flourish, 4th District Santa Barbara County Supervisor Bob Nelson said.
“This isn’t Burning Man out there,” Nelson said. “In no uncertain terms should living in the riverbed ever be romanticized as anything other than the most inhumane place for anyone to be living in the community.”
When cleanups began in July, several people in the riverbed tested positive for syphilis—a sexually transmitted infection that people can get when someone has a syphilis sore, and women can pass on to their fetus, Fleming said. People need three treatments, three weeks in a row, once someone tests positive for syphilis. If they miss treatment, the whole process starts over.
“And the county of SLO Public Health was aware of the positive syphilis tests, … because we have to report those to the county. And they said, ‘We don’t want those people moved. We want them to get their treatment completed,’” Fleming said. “Well, it didn’t work, and they were all dispersed.”
Fourth District Supervisor Nelson told the Sun that the counties did hold off on the cleanups for four weeks until treatment was complete, following the SLO County Department of Public Health’s guidelines.
“There was a little bit of back-and-forth on what the right solution was. Ultimately, it was decided that [the cleanup] was delayed until the treatment was complete,” Nelson said. “Threeweek treatment, and we delayed our process out of an abundance of caution. We changed our timeline. All of this has been done in coordination with SLO County Public Health.”
Linda Belch, SLO County’s deputy director of Adult and Homeless Services, added via email that the agencies hold regular meetings between service providers and those working on the encampments so details “can be discussed and worked through.”
“I am aware that adjustments to the timeline for the work on the encampment have been made periodically to accommodate needs such as health treatment and that everyone involved is working together to try and ensure continuity of care,” Belch said.
SLO County Public Health Department Public Information Specialist Tara Kennon said the department requested that syphilis treatment be “a high-priority consideration when it came to decisions about moving.”
“Our understanding is that partners were managing a complicated set of circumstances and that in cases where residents were moved before completing treatment, our team has worked to follow up with them at their new locations to continue treatment,” she said.
Every Tuesday, CAPSLO runs its mobile clinic, staffed by a nurse practitioner and two medical assistants. CAPSLO typically sees 20 to 25 patients per day in its brick-and-mortar facilities in SLO and Arroyo Grande, and the mobile clinic sees about four to six patients a day. With grant funding covering operation costs until December 2025, CAPSLO is seeking other funding to sustain its efforts.
Since July, 28 people have tested positive for syphilis and five people tested positive for hepatitis C—a blood-borne disease that’s usually obtained through sharing needles, but it can be obtained through sex if there’s torn tissues and blood gets into those tissues, Fleming said.
CAPSLO can treat chlamydia and gonorrhea right on the spot, and provide the three-week treatment needed for syphilis, but hepatitis C needs extensive treatment and blood work that needs to be managed by an infectious disease or primary care provider. Nobody had tested positive for HIV in the riverbed through CAPSLO resources as of Oct. 3.
“We did find a woman who … was pregnant, didn’t know she was pregnant. Also had syphilis,” Fleming said. “She took housing for one night and then was back in the camp, and I don’t know where she is now because some of them we’ve lost contact with.”
5CHC Executive Director Janna Nichols added that people have also been diagnosed with abscesses, and another woman was diagnosed with cervical cancer.
“A variety of health care issues that have gone undiagnosed by a virtual lack of health care,” Nichols said.
The 5CHC outreach team is finding challenges in keeping track of the people they’ve served, with individuals moving into more remote areas.
“For us, I understand some of the reasons behind the clearing, and I certainly appreciate the need to address the issue, but the impact is that people are being displaced,” Nichols said. “We still haven’t housed them, we’re having a harder time finding them, or having to walk farther to find them.”
Santa Barbara County Supervisor Nelson said that the county and its partners will engage with private property owners and other jurisdictions to try and prevent people from going into more remote areas.
“We’ve got a robust social safety network, and we’ve been out there full-force—Animal Services, Public Health,” Nelson said. “I think we’re constantly adjusting the strategy to the circumstances. If people continue moving further west, then we are going to keep moving further west. … We are going to continue providing services out there as we help people move beyond the riverbed.” m
Reach Staff Writer Taylor O’Connor at toconnor@ santamariasun.com.
Blazing inclusive trails
NatureTrack provides Central Coast wheelchair users with more beach access through Freedom Trax program
BY LIBBEY HANSON
Many wheelchair users haven’t felt a sandy beach in years, but one organization is changing that reality one track at a time.
NatureTrack is making the Central Coast beachfront more accessible for wheelchair users throughout Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties by providing technology that turns manual wheelchairs into vehicles that easily traverse sandy and rocky surfaces.
A tank-like structure, the Freedom Trax is placed as an attachment under a manual wheelchair and provides tracks that glide over sand, as opposed to wheels that sink into it. It also includes a joystick so the user can either freely control where they go or a friend can help out.
Program Coordinator Abby Pickens said the organization purchased its first Freedom Trax in 2020 so a volunteer who used a wheelchair could join outings. After seeing how it worked, and the accessibility it created, the organization decided to expand its outdoor services and created the Freedom Trax program that’s available free of charge to students, seniors, and any public user.
Promotion available for City solid waste customers. Verification of address is required to receive complimentary pail for food waste collection.
“Then we thought, what a great opportunity for more people that are [mobile-challenged] or use a wheelchair permanently,” she said. “The sand is hard to get onto, or even trails. Outdoor spaces are hard to get to, so we wanted to break that barrier.”
Since 2013, NatureTrack has provided Santa Barbara County students with outdoor experiences that relate to school curriculum and enabled them to visit beaches and trails throughout Santa Barbara and SLO counties. The Freedom Trax program now allows wheelchairusing students and teachers to participate in these activities when they couldn’t before.
“We can use the Freedom Trax for any students or teachers that come on our field trips that we do with the Santa Barbara County Schools. And we got in three students last year to go on field trips and use [them to] participate with their peers. It was really awesome,” Pickens said.
NatureTrack also organizes outings for group homes that include senior living and support groups. Currently, it’s working with five homes in Santa Barbara, taking residents out once or twice a month on the Freedom Trax. The organization is also looking for more homes to collaborate with.
“We see the residents. We take
them out to the beach and we have lunch, and it’s always a great time,” Pickens said.
A recent notable trip, she said, was to Oso Flaco Lake and its boardwalk near Guadalupe where the organization assisted five people. They’ve also ventured to Avila and Pismo beaches.
“We’ve had really good responses from people,” Pickens said, describing moments when people approached them at the beach and asked about the Freedom Trax for someone they know.
“It’s been really awesome to be there and to help the community there whenever we can. And sometimes it’s just people visiting, or sometimes it is locals that are just learning about NatureTrack the Freedom Trax,” she said.
Some of the users they have helped haven’t experienced the beach in 10 years, and Pickens said this is both emotional and exciting.
“There’s people that have had a spinal cord injury and haven’t touched the sand in 10-plus years and are touching the sand for the first time,” she said. “And for the kids, it’s exciting to get to go out with your peers and walk along with them and not have to miss out. I think that it’s just making everybody feel like it’s more inclusive.”
Users don’t need to be a student or in a group home to gain beach access—NatureTrack also offers a free lending program for anyone in need, whether for a day trip to the beach or a week-long vacation in Mexico.
“A lot of people have been able to go to a lot of different places and experience going places that they didn’t expect to go without the Freedom Trax,” Pickens said.
NatureTrack is hosting an event for the public to learn more about its Freedom Trax program on Nov. 3 at Avila Beach Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit naturetrack.org to register and learn more.
Highlight
• NatureTrack is hosting its sixth annual film festival on Oct. 11 to 13 at Camino Real Cinemas and the Camino Real Marketplace in Goleta. Started in Los Olivos in 2018, the festival will feature 50-plus nature and outdoor adventure films from around the world. To purchase tickets, visit naturetrackfilmfestival.org. m
Reach New Times Staff Writer Libbey Hanson, from the Sun’s sister paper, at lhanson@ newtimesslo.com.
BREAKING BARRIERS: NatureTrack volunteers use Freedom Trax to help wheelchair users experience a beach day, something typically impossible for a manual wheelchair.
What do
you
think of the situation with pets in the riverbed?
50% Encampments shouldn’t be there in the first place.
42% It’s great to see C.A.R.E.4Paws helping residents in the riverbed.
8% It’s difficult—wouldn’t want to be separated from my pets.
0% The county should offer help for pets during its cleanups. 14
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Impose cease-fire now
BY GALE MCNEELEY
The war in Israel and Palestine did not begin Oct. 7, 2023. It began before the state of Israel was created. In his book, Gaza: An Inquest into its Martyrdom, noted Israeli historian Norman Finkelstein writes, “In 1947, the U.N. General Assembly approved a resolution partitioning British-mandated Palestine into a Jewish state incorporating 56 percent of Palestine, and an Arab state incorporating the remaining 44 percent. In the war that ensued after passage of the resolution, the newly born state of Israel expanded its borders to incorporate nearly 80 percent of Palestine.”
According to Al Jazeera, between 1947 and 1949, more than 80 percent of Palestinians in what became Israel were expelled, and approximately 80 percent of Palestinian land was seized by Zionists.
Although the United Nations General Assembly passed Resolution 194 in 1948, affirming the right of return of Palestinian refugees, Israel has refused to implement this resolution. Instead, the state of Israel has participated in ethnic cleansing, the removal of Palestinians from their land. By 1967, Israel occupied historic Palestine, including the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, as well as the Syrian Golan Heights and the Egyptian Sinai. So, no, this is not a new war, and Israel has used Oct. 7 as a pretext to cleanse Gaza of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, who may never be able to return to their homes.
What Israel has done to the Palestinian people is inhumane. They have colonized traditional Palestinian land by force. The Israeli army can knock on any Palestinian front door and order the owners to leave. Refuse and you can be killed on the spot. Thousands have been.
Now the Israeli government is waging war on the Palestinians in Gaza. Not just on Hamas, but on the Palestinian people. Israel
justifies its attacks on hospitals and schools and refugee camps, saying Hamas is hidden among them. So, they use 2,000-pound American bunker-busting bombs that kill men, women, and children indiscriminately.
Lebanon is Israel’s current target. Pagers and walkie-talkies their bombs. These have killed or wounded hundreds of innocents, not just members of Hezbollah.
Where is the outrage? If America had carried out these bombings in Lebanon, the world would rise up against our actions. Israel deserves to be condemned for this new level of warfare. It is a new form of terrorism. Israel has become a terrorist state.
At the same time, Israel has prevented medicine, food, and water from getting to Palestinian refugees. This has been confirmed by the U.S. Agency for International Development, and the State Department’s refugees bureau. U.S. law requires our government to stop arms shipments to countries that prevent the delivery of U.S. backed aid. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has ignored these findings in order to keep our weapons flowing to the Israeli military to continue its assault on Gaza.
Now Israel has begun a land invasion of Lebanon, broadening the conflict. This has caused Iran to begin missile and drone strikes on Israel, a country that possesses nuclear weapons.
America must stop this madness by ending all weapons delivery to Israel, and by joining with the United Nations in imposing and enforcing a cease-fire in both Palestine and Lebanon. We may be on the brink of a nuclear war in the Middle East. America must do all it can to prevent that war. Staying the course with Israel is not an option. We must impose a cease-fire now. m
Speak up! Send us your views and opinion to letters@santamariasun.com.
Gale McNeeley writes to the Sun from Santa Maria. Send a letter for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.
or e-mail it (letters@santamariasun.com). All letters must include a name, address, and phone number for verification purposes; may be edited for space or clarity; and will be posted to santamariasun.com.
Reelect Donald Trump, the champion of ‘we the people’
Having been American president No. 45, Donald Trump knows the swamp and the federal bureaucracy. He has years of experience as a worldwide businessman and employs thousands of people. He is for the people. As our president, he was and would be the “commander and chief” of the military. The bureaucracy reports to him. He controls the border. World peace is his goal and plan for the future. You know who is running the government. And you know who supports him.
The Biden and Harris administration has been a mystery as to who runs the government from behind closed doors, as with ex-President Obama.
Kamala Harris, now running for president, is an extension of the Biden/Obama government. Who will run our government? You will never know. Harris knows little about running the federal government, as much as Trump does. She spouts word salad while waving her hands wildly and giggling loudly. There is no intelligence in her actions. She is the most leftwing candidate offered and an “open borders” radical.
Harris is a pawn for the people supporting her, i.e., the Russian oligarchs, the deep state, the swamp, the liberal media, the Hollywood moguls. They do not support “we the people” and neither will she if you elect her. The Democrats want power over the people under the guise of the “Green New Deal,” i.e., socialism. Your freedoms are gone and you will be slaves of the state if you again elect a Democratic president.
For freedom, good health, and prosperity, and peace, please vote for 45th President Donald Trump and J.P. Vance for the 47th president the United States, “the people’s champion.”
Justin M. Ruhge
Free elections need our protection from Trump
Every citizen of the United States of America has the right to participate in free elections in which they are allowed to vote according to their own beliefs and opinions. That idea is fundamental to our republic, but that right has been challenged all along. Legislation like the Voting Rights Act of 1965 shows that the concept of free elections continues to need our attention and protection.
Because of the actions and rhetoric Donald Trump, on Jan. 6, 2021, we saw an attack on the U.S. Capitol building by those trying to prevent the certification of the last presidential election. Now, by continuing to claim election fraud and faulty vote counts, Mr. Trump has empowered violent people to try to disrupt next November’s election. This has election workers fearing for their safety and election facilities being fortified for trouble. I fear that if Mr. Trump and his attacks on our system of Free Elections are allowed to succeed, it would not bode well for our republic.
Lompoc
Lynda Merrill Morro Bay
Racing molasses Opinion FROM TRAUMA TO HOPE: Stories of Foster Care
Senior mobile home parks across the county are getting protection from the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors to stay senior—forever and always.
Well, most of them should get that protection, if the board continues along its current path, which would put a moratorium on changing 55-and-older mobile home parks to all-ages and specify the areas that fall under said moratorium.
One mobile home park may not be in the clear but is crossing all the fingers and toes it can muster: Del Cielo Mobile Home Park, which received a six-month notice of an upcoming change from senior to all-ages about five months ago.
The county has one month—now less—to get its proverbial shit together and rush this moratorium through to protect the park’s current residents. We might want to cross more than fingers and toes, because to put it frankly: Santa Barbara County is slow as molasses.
“Any action we take generally takes a while for us to accomplish it,” 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino said at the board’s Oct. 8 meeting. “Today you could have an operator change their mind tomorrow and it’ll take us months to get there.”
Lavagnino should know, he’s been a supervisor for a million years (not really, obviously; it’s only been 14 years). Planning and Development Director Lisa Plowman said it wouldn’t take a “substantial amount of time” to get to where it needed to go. I guess we’ll see.
Meanwhile Del Cielo’s residents need to hope that the big bad “management” company— Harmony Communities—sticks to the original notice instead of pulling the plug early and ramming it through.
Santa Maria isn’t ramming through any new revenue opportunities right at the moment but seems to be considering an awful lot of interesting choices to make up for the projected $41 million deficit the city’s looking at over the next two fiscal years. How did we come to this place?
Spending outpacing revenue, obviously. Why is it that deficits are always a “surprise”?
Here are the options: $14.8 million in cuts to city departments, for starters. Nice. The other options include taxing sugary beverages, which 3rd District Councilmember Gloria Soto is interestingly all in on. Santa Maria could tax cannabis, although for that one to work it would really help if cannabis businesses were actually allowed to operate within city limits. They’re not. “As much as I oppose the introduction of cannabis in the community … . I don’t think it should be something we should not look at,” 2nd District Councilmember Mike Cordero said. You should have thought about that when cannabis was legalized. It’s already in the community, buddy. You aren’t introducing it.
Is it time to start charging residents for the emergency calls they make for medical and fire emergencies? Oof. That sounds super lame. But maybe the firefighters could finally get that raise they want.
Sales tax? A half-cent could generate a cool $13.5 million. Transient occupancy tax? Bringing it up another 4 percent would line the city up with its neighbors.
Sounds like those are the options. But none would happen quickly. They require voter approval. I guess the city better get moving. The molasses is catching up to it. m
The Canary thinks molasses makes a great bird seed topper. Send some to canary@ santamariasun.com.
OCTOBER 12-20
Santa Maria Town Center
Open to the Public Free Admission
Experience powerful stories of resilience and transformation in From Trauma to Hope: Stories of Foster Care.
This exhibit offers a unique and moving look at the lives of foster youth, shared through art, memories, and personal narratives.
Join us in raising awareness and inspiring change in our community.
Questions or want to learn more? Reach out to us at info@sbcasa.org
This exhibit features real stories of local foster youth which includes abuse, neglect, and other traumatic experiences. It is not recommended for children under 10.
What’s Your Take?
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. CELEBRATE CALIFORNIA WRITERS
WEEK Meet the CA Poet Laureate Lee Herrick and other speakers at this event, which will include the launch of “SPLASH,” an anthology of stories and verse by local writers. An event by Coastal Dunes CWC. Oct. 13 1-5 p.m. Free. coastaldunescwc.com.
Shepard Hall Art Gallery (Santa Maria Public Library), 421 South McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-925-0994.
COMMUNITY ARTS FAMILY DAY The first free Community Arts Family Day will be held at the Allan Hancock College Campus in Santa Maria. Hosted by the Ann Foxworthy Gallery, Hancock College, in collaboration with One Community Action. Enjoy a free day of art, kids activities, music, car show, booths, and more. Oct. 19, 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-694-8894. hancockcollege.edu/ familyartsday/index.php. Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.
CRAFTWORKS: SPOOKY STAMPED TEA
TOWELS Learn how to create stamps with spooky designs that will then be used to decorate tea towels. All materials will be provided. Registration is required; for patrons 18 and up. Oct. 15 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/ services/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE Classes available for all skill levels.
Class sizes limited. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, 805-9376753, 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. 832-8848114. Cubanissimo Cuban Coffee House, 4869 S. Bradley Rd., #118, Orcutt. NUESTRA VIVA EN EL ARTE (OUR LIFE IN ART): CHICANO ART EXHIBIT FROM THE SANCHEZ ART COLLECTION A collection of artworks from many of the iconic artists who were a quintessential part of the beginnings of the Chicano art movement as it has become an influence on popular culture and social issues. Oct. 14, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Oct. 14 - Dec. 13 Free. 805-6948894. hancockcollege.edu/gallery/index. php. Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.
RAINBOW READS BOOK CLUB Join every month to read and discuss literature that focuses on LGBTQIA+ authors, characters, and themes. The book for October is Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth. See sm.blackgold.org for available titles. Registration is required. Oct. 18 4:30-5:30 p.m. 805-925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/ services/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SAVANNAH SIPPING SOCIETY A hilarious journey of friendship, laughter, and sweet tea sipping Oct. 11-27 my805tix. com/. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
STRAWBERRY PICKER: ARTIST TALK AND FILM SCREENING Allan Hancock College welcomes the community to a
free screening of the short film Strawberry Picker The film will be followed by a Q-and-A with the director and producer of the film, and artist Juan Fuentes. Original artwork will be on display at the event. Oct. 18 6-7:30 p.m. Free. 805-922-6966. hancockcollege.edu. Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.
VALLEY ART GALLERY: ROTATING
DISPLAYS Featured artists of Santa Maria’s Valley Art Gallery frequently display their works at the airport. Check website for details on monthly exhibits and full list of the gallery’s artists. ongoing valleygallery.org. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
A DEEPER LOVE: NEW PAINTINGS
INSPIRED BY CORAL REEFS A vivid duo exhibition that highlights a collection of paintings by husband and wife team David Gallup and Nansi Bielanski Gallup. Through Feb. 1. calnatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.
THE LION HAS TO BE HAPPY: CONTEMPORARY DANISH CERAMICS
A showcase of ceramic artworks by featured artisan Marianne Steenholdt Bork. Through Oct. 27 elverhoj.org. Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, 805-686-1211.
MICHELLE JULIET FELDMAN: SOLO
EXHIBIT An exhibition of local artist
Michelle Juliet Feldman, of The Giving Ink. The exhibit includes unique landscapes that captures the hills, oaks, and light that is a special part of the Santa Ynez Valley as well as abstract seascapes. Through Nov. 10 thegivingink.com/. Los Olivos General Store, 2900 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.
WOODLANDS II AT GALLERY LOS
OLIVOS Deborah Breedon, Kris Buck,
GHOST HOST
Each Friday and Saturday of October, the Solvang Wine and True Crime Tour will host groups of up to 12 at various time slots. Wes Leslie (pictured) leads each twohour tour, open to ages 21 and over. The tours kick off at Final Girl Wines in Solvang and proceed to various tasting rooms and bars in town, while attendees learn about reportedly haunted mortuaries in the area and other local lore. Visit thehauntedghosttours.com for more info.
—Caleb Wiseblood
and Chuck Klein are the featured artists for the month of October at Gallery Los Olivos. Titled Woodlands II, this exhibit is a blend of pastels including landscapes, abstracts, florals, and fine woodworking. MondaysSundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 31 805-688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
LOMPOC FRIGHT FEST The first annual Lompoc Fright Fest is coming to Lompoc. With more than 40 vendors, artists and crafters, DIY classes, a costume contest, photo booth, special guests, and more. Oct. 19 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free event. 805742-9644. lompocfrightfest.com. Lompoc Veterans Memorial Hall, 100 E. Locust Ave., Lompoc.
LOMPOC VALLEY ARTS COUNCIL
FORUM The Lompoc Valley Arts Council will hold its quarterly forum. After a brief business meeting, Lompoc City Council candidate Steve Bridge will discuss with us his community involvement in the arts, followed by an idea generation session, collaboration and refreshments. Oct. 17 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Stone Pine Hall, 210 South H St., Lompoc, 805-736-3888, lompocmuseum.org/pine.php.
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 Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
FINAL BOOK SALE OF 2024 The sale offers a wide selection of current fiction, non-fiction, research, children’s books,
and a selection of coffee table books. Cash only. Rain cancels. Oct. 12 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 805-481-4131. GroverBeachLibrary.org.
Grover Beach Community Library, 240 N 9th St., Grover Beach.
IMPROV 101 This may be “the funnest class you ever take.” Improvisation is acting and reacting in the moment. Improv boosts creativity, self-confidence, and communication skills while reducing stress and social anxiety. This course will provide you with the fundamentals in a safe and supportive environment. Sundays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through Oct. 27 $80. 805-556-8495. improvforgood.fun/. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande.
RM ART STUDIOS WELCOMES THE PUBLIC Local artists Rosemary and Mike Bauer welcome you to their home studio/gallery during the Open Studios Art Tour. More than 50 paintings will be on display. The artists paint both outdoors and in the studio to capture expressive interpretations of Central Coast scenes. Open year-round by appointment. Oct. 12 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 13 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Oct. 20 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free event. 805-390-2497. slocountyarts.org/osat. RM Art Studios, 831 Robin Circle, Arroyo Grande.
SECOND SATURDAY IMPROV MEETUP
Meets the second Saturday of every month in the Community Room at the Nipomo Library. Ever wanted to try improv? Are you an experienced player looking to stretch, or a curious newbie? Come play short form games and share smiles. Oct. 12 2-4 p.m. Free. 805-5568495. improvforgood.fun/. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.
TRANSCENDING THE PHOTO REFERENCE IN PAINT WITH ALYSSA
MONKS A four-day workshop designed to guide the student toward creating a painting from a photo reference, using both indirect and direct traditional oil painting techniques. Find out more and register at willowpondslo.com. Oct. 11 , 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 12 , 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 13, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Oct. 14, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $1447 includes lunch daily. 805-550-6399. willowpondslo.com/. Willow Pond SLO, 1250 Judith Lane, Arroyo Grande.
VOLVER 2 (“THE COMEBACK 2”) Led by award-winning singer Guillermo Fernandez and maestro Lautaro Greco, this electrifying production promises an unforgettable evening, featuring top musicians, singers, and dancers from Argentina and Uruguay. Recognized as Cultural Ambassadors of Uruguay, this show beautifully balances traditional and modern tango. Oct. 18, 7:30-10:30 p.m. $49-$74. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/volver-2/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
WEREWOLF OF ARROYO GRANDE Enjoy the Melodrama’s Halloween-spirited show. Through Nov. 9 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano. SAN LUIS OBISPO A-TOWN ART HOP: DIA DE LOS MUERTOS (CALL TO ARTISTS) Interested in participating in the next A-Town Art Hop? Register online. The art walk will be held on Nov. 1. Through Oct. 13 Free. 831-291-8329. atownarthop.org. San Luis Obispo. ADVENTURES IN MIXED MEDIA! WITH SPENCER COLLINS Students will learn about different mediums each week as well as learn about an artist from history. Take one class of the entire 10-week series for a discounted price. Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. through Nov. 7 $25 for one class; 10 classes for $180. 559-2503081. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN
ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
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.
PHOTO COURTESY OF STILETTO MARKETING
Join Us for the 23rd Annual Santa Maria Empty Bowls!
Fill your bowl with delicious soup and make a difference in the community. Each handcrafted bowl represents our shared mission to end food insecurity, and you’ll take yours home as a reminder of those facing hunger daily. All proceeds support the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County—help us nourish those in need!
To reserve your spot, visit: FOODBANKSBC.ORG/SMEB24 or FRIDAY, NOV.22
Santa Maria Fairpark 937 S Thornburg St, Santa Maria
Seatings: 11:30am & 12:30pm New To-Go options & Group Lunch delivery Wednesday, October 16, 2024
See LIVE performances from winning artists for each genre. Hear winning songs from Country/Americana/Folk , Rock/Alternative, R&B/Blues , Hip-Hop/Rap, and Open categories. The coveted Newtie award will be presented to the top spot along with awards for each genre. We’ll also announce this years Local Legend Award that is presented to an individual who has dedicated their time, talent, and effort to benefit the local music scene.
Also, get your chance to win an Ernie Ball guitar by purchasing raffle tickets online or at the event.
2023 NEW TIMES MUSIC AWARD WINNERS
JOSH ROSENBLUM DAVE TATE
MIKE HEALY MAX MACLAURY
BIG SIERRA SADIE JASPER
ELBOW DROP SUNDAY
THE ARTIST’S WAY: UNBLOCKING CREATIVITY 12 week program (13 meetings) for creatives and anyone who is seeking to “unblock” their creativity, following Julia Cameron’s famous workbook “The Artist’s Way.” Weekly group discussions and check-ins. Opportunities to share creativity and create community. Email for more info. Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m. through Nov. 26 $195. cuesta.edu. Cuesta College Community Programs, Building 4100 Cuesta College Road, San luis obispo, 805-540-8282.
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. Third Wednesday 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.
CARTOONING WITH KIDS WITH KANE LYNCH Whether you’re new to making comics or draw zillions of pages every week, this fun-filled class will take your ‘tooning to the next level. This program will help build your cartooning skillset with wacky interactive comics adventures and transform the ideas in your head into a finished product. Every other Sunday, 1-2:30 p.m. through Nov. 17 $25 per session. 805-801-6188. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing 805-8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/ foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/babyhandprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
COLLEEN GNOS’ OCEAN SCENES AND MORE Colleen Gnos invites you to go behind the scenes in her SLO studio as part of the Open Studios Art Tour. Explore her various works, including painted surfboards, hula dancers, tiki art, landscapes, ocean scenes, mermaids, murals, and more. Saturdays, Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 20 Free admission. 805-441-8277. colleengnos. com. Gnos Art Studio, 141 Suburban Road, Unit C4, San Luis Obsipo.
COMIC MAKING FOR TEENS WITH KANE LYNCH All skill levels are welcome in this collaborative class that will take students through the process of producing a finished comic story. Learn about plot structure, thumbnailing, penciling, inking, as well as the subtler skills to make your comic work shine. Wednesdays, 4-5:30 p.m. through Oct. 30 $25 per session; $175 for all 8 sessions. 805-801-6188. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CREATIVE CLASSES THIS WEEK AT THE STUDIO Get creative this week. Craft your own spooky terrarium with eerie decorations, perfect for Halloween. Or, dive into leatherwork by designing a custom bracelet and earrings set. Both beginnerfriendly and fun—come join and explore new skills. Oct. 12 10 a.m.-7 p.m. & 1-4 p.m. $45-$195. 805-439-1022. slolifestudio.com/. SLOLife Studio & Mercantile, 1337 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP: LARGE
PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com.
Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
GINI GRIFFIN: SOLO SHOW OF POTS AND PAINTINGS Showing during the month of October at SLO Provisions. Opening reception: Oct 4, from 5 to 8 p.m. Email ginizart@aol.com for more info. Through Oct. 31 SLO Provisions, 1255 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 805-439-4298.
ILLUSTRATING WITH WATERCOLOR
MARKERS AND INK PENS WITH JASON
KNOX In this interactive workshop, Knox will demonstrate simple techniques such as color blending, pointillism, etching, shading, light perspective, character development, concept, and design. Be a part of this rare learning opportunity and discover what great potential your creative mind can reveal. Oct. 12 , 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $25. 840-206-8223. 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.
LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. 805-441-8257.
Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.
MARIA MOLTENI: CELESTIAL
ANTIPHONY Celestial Antiphony creates a cycle of beats on the fingers and illustrates a childhood shortcut for praying the Rosary when beads have gone missing. The artist has returned to the modular, rhythmic orb-based practice of prayer, which transcends boundaries of faith and constructs of time. Through Nov. 11 Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ maria-molteni/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com). Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY OPEN STUDIOS ART TOUR Free to the public, fine artists and crafters open their studios to showcase their art and share their processes. Visitors create their own self-guided tours using the catalog. See website for full list of participating artists and locations. Oct. 12 Oct. 13 , Oct. 19 and Oct. 20 slocountyarts.org/osat. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.
SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age. Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
SEA GLASS HAMMERED METAL JEWELRY CLASS You’ll learn techniques to hammer metal, then add sea glass and beads to create a beautiful necklace and pierced earrings. Class includes use of tools and a take-home instruction sheet. Perfect for all skill levels. Oct. 13 , 10 a.m.-noon $45. 805-541-1400. creativemetime.com. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
SECOND SATURDAYS SLOMA’s Second Saturdays program encourages intergenerational learning and creative expression for children of all ages. Families are invited to SLOMA’s lawn to learn about the visual arts together using unique activity kits and create an art project inspired by current exhibitions. Second Saturday of every month, 11-1 a.m. through Dec. 14 Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/events/second-saturdays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., 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, contact Mack via email: vbmack@ charter.net Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. 805-747-4200. artcentralslo.com/ workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
WALT WHITMAN GAY MEN’S BOOK CLUB
MISERY This Stephen King adaptation follows successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car crash by his “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes, and wakes up captive in her secluded home. Thursdays-Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through Oct. 27 $20-$34. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, 805-786-2440, slorep.org/.
THE OUTSIDERS FROM THE OTHER SIDE
CUESTA DRAMA PRESENTS A MIDSEMESTER NIGHT’S MASHUP (A WORLD PREMIERE) An exciting, limited run of A Midsemester Night’s Mashup a world premiere written and directed by Ben Abbott, produced by award-winning and internationally recognized Cuesta Drama. Limited seats available. Oct. 10 7:30 p.m., Oct. 11 , 7:30 p.m., Oct. 12 , 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 13 , 2 p.m. $15. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece. Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue
Featuring “outsider” artists from Tijuana, Mexico. Offering a glimpse into Tijuana’s rich artistic landscape and focusing on the cross-border experiences that shape the artists’ life and work. Discover unique perspectives on identity, culture, and belonging. Sculpture, painting, collage, photography, stencil murals, and graffiti are among the featured media. MondaysFridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Oct. 11 Free. 805-546-3202. cuesta.edu/student/ campuslife/artgallery/2024-2025-exhibits/ the-outsiders.html. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden. Second Saturday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $75 per picket or 2 for $100. 805-541-1400.
This club reads, studies and discusses books chosen by the group which relate to their lives as gay men. All are welcome. Second Monday of every month, 7-9:30 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. WHOSE WATERS? This Gray Wing exhibition will build upon the photojournalistic work of Southern California artist Gabriella Angotti-Jones whose I Just Wanna Surf book highlights Black female and non-binary surfers and other unseen or outright ignored communities that ride the waves off the Golden State. Through Oct. 20, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-543-8562. sloma.org/ exhibition/surf-show/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY ATUL PANDE, CAROL ROULLARD, AND CAROLE MCDONALD: ARTISTS RECEPTION AND ATRIUM PARTY Come meet the artists, be inspired, and enjoy food, refreshments, a tree-filled atrium and all the businesses in Marina Square. Featuring Atul Pande, Carol Roullard, and Carole McDonald. Oct. 12 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
The U2xperience: A U2 Tribute
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 Flower City Ballroom,
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20
19 The Benedict, Morro Bay
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
Titties & Tea Party
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20
Hogwarts Feast: A Bramble Pie Co. & MCV Event
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 Bramble Pie Company, Atascadero
OCTOBER
SUNDAY, OCTOBER
WEDNESDAY,
COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY
Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. 805-394-5560. coastalwineandpaint. com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.
COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California.
Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. 559799-9632. costagallery. com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.
FINE ART PAINTINGS BY ATUL PANDE
ALL ABOARD
The SLO Model Railroad Association will host its latest Model Rail Days program festivities at the Oceano Train Depot on Saturday, Oct. 12, and Sunday, Oct. 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days. The free series includes exhibits of working model railroads of various scales and sizes, kid-friendly activities, and more. To find out more about Model Rail Days, visit slomra.org.
Gallery at Marina Square presents Atul Pande featuring his acrylic paintings, both representational and non-representational. A marvelous exhibition of his talents as a painter. Through Oct. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FINE ART PAINTINGS BY CAROL ROULLARD Showcases both her abstract acrylic paintings and her micro-crystalline photography. Through Oct. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. 805-772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.
GETTING HIGH ON NATURE: FEATURING
KARL DEMPWOLF The Cambria Center for the Arts Gallery presents “Getting High on Nature,” featuring Karl Dempwolf. Opening night includes a reception with music by Tom Bethke, treats, and more. TuesdaysSundays, 12-4 p.m. through Oct. 27 805927-8190. cambriaarts.org. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria.
MAREA ART STUDIO: OPEN STUDIO ART
TOURS Features Anita Marie Jewelry, Jade Coast Jewelry, Carol Manuputy Art four ceramic artists, and more. 25 artists all in one location. Oct. 12 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 808-534-4779. Marea Art Studio, 1316 2nd St., Los Osos.
OIL PAINTING DEMONSTRATION WITH JASON MAYR Jason Mayr will do a live oil painting demonstration and discuss his craft at Art Center Morro Bay the second Monday of October. Oct. 14 3-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.
THE OUTSIDER A timely and hilarious comedy that skewers politics and celebrates democracy. Oct. 11-27 my805tix.com/. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.
THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. ongoing 805-772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.
ROD BAKER’S GLASS ART Visit Baker’s fascinating glass studio as part of the Open Studios Art Tour, at Central Coast Glass Blowing and Fusing. See new glass masterpieces, home-garden décor, and glass jewelry. Saturdays, Sundays, 10 a.m.5 p.m. through Oct. 20 Free admission. 805-551-6836. Central Coast Glass Blowing and Fusing, 1279 2nd Street, Los Osos, RodBakerGlass.com.
ROSEY AND BARBARA ROSENTHAL’S BAYSIDE STUDIO AND GARDEN GALLERY Printmakers Rosey and Barbara Rosenthal invite you to their bayside studio and outdoor gallery as part of the Open Studios Art Tour. Explore their inspiring comic book art, original paintings, prints, jewelry, art books, and cards. Oct. 12 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 13 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Oct. 20, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission. 805528-4946. rosenthalart.com. Rosenthal Art Studio, 743 Santa Lucia Ave., Los Osos. SMALL WORKS BY CAROLE MCDONALD
Features her small acrylic paintings as well as her knitted and wool scarves and bags. Through Oct. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 805-772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
SUCCULENT PUMPKIN WORKSHOP
Spend a delightful afternoon at the nursery, where you can tap into your creativity to design the perfect centerpiece for your autumn celebrations. The workshop fee covers one pumpkin and a wide selection of succulents. Oct. 12 2 p.m. $35. 805-927-4747. cambrianursery.com/events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
ANNUAL CRAFT FAIR Annunciation
Orthodox Church is hosting its annual Craft Fair, which features fantastic local vendors showcasing one-of-a- kind homemade crafts. These include jewelry, scroll art, etchings, baked goods, all occasion and holiday cards, quilted and sewn gifts such as bags, and kitchen holiday items. Oct. 12 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. No admission fee. 805-264-2128. odox.org. Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, 877 Francine Lane, Santa Maria.
EXPLORING THE TRAILS OF ORCUTT
Join the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County and enjoy some of Orcutt’s best trails. Oct. 19, 9-11:30 a.m. Free. 805-4488012. eventbrite.com. Orcutt Community Park, 4854 S. Bradley Road 109, Orcutt.
FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. 805-937-9750. oasisorcutt.
org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.
FLIRTY FICTION BOOK CLUB Flirty
Fiction is a book club for readers of contemporary romance fiction. The group meets each month to discuss new titles. The book for October is Payback’s a Witch! by Lana Harper. For ages 18 and over. Registration is required. Light refreshments will be served. Oct. 14 5:15-6:15 p.m. Free. 805-925-
0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing 805-343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.
OPEN HOUSE: ACUPUNCTURE CENTER OF SANTA MARIA Meet Dr. Kandel and new associate Scarlett Beltran, LAc. Enjoy an art exhibit by Donna Kandel; a tour of the historic Isaac Miller Jr. House by Shelley Klein; storytime by the Santa Maria Library Bookmobile; raffles for massage and acupuncture; and food for purchase from Cubanissimo. Oct. 11 3-6:30 p.m. Free. 805-922-4490. Dr. Herb Kandel, 225 E. Mill, Santa Maria. POETRY FOR SELF CARE Looking for a new form of self-expression? Poetry facilitation is the use of poetry to promote well-being. Workshop participants will be introduced to a poem and explore their reaction through writing/illustration with guest facilitator Dot Winslow. Registration is required and this workshop is free. Oct. 13 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 805-9250994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. SANTA MARIA CEMETERY LOCAL HISTORY PRESENTATION Come see a presentation about the Santa Maria Cemetery headstones and the history of local pioneer families. Oct. 19 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 805-922-3131. Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum, 616 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.
SANTA MARIA COIN CLUB: MONTHLY MEETING Coin collectors of all ages invited. Bring coins for free appraisals. Third Wednesday of every month, 7 p.m. Yearly membership: $20-$25. 805-9373158. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.
SANTA MARIA TOASTMASTERS Develop your public speaking skills at this club meeting. Third Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. 805-570-0620. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria. WELCOME PROJECT HERO CYCLISTS Come out and help welcome the Project Hero Cyclists to Orcutt. Please wear red, white, and blue. Flags will be available. Show support for these heroes. Oct. 17 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 805-298-2968. American Legion Post 534, 145 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG GARDEN BEAUTIFICATION DAY Join the Lompoc Valley Botanic and Horticultural Society and help care for Lompoc’s
Lompoc
Get The Shot, Kind Eyes, & More!
Dark Nectar Coffee, Atascadero
Harvesting Love for the Chapel SUNDAY,
20 Santa Rosa Catholic Church, Cambria
Vintage Blending Party
MCV Wines, Paso Robles
Provided upon registration, Grover Beach
David Nail at the Maverick Saloon
20 Maverick Saloon, Santa Ynez
—C.W.
OCTOBER 12
Cafe, SLO
Vibrations of Peace:
Chapel Sound Bath
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17 Allegre o Vineyard Reso Paso Robles
Killer Dueling Pianos
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17
Tributes to Nirvana & Pearl Jam, The Faithfull & Nearvana
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12
Stockyard, Orcu
ine Brewing Company, SLO Trivia Wednesday Night with Brain Stew Trivia WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16
The Drum Brewery, SLO
SAMO Fund Presents: Katelyn Tarver
SATURDAY,
Moon & Day of the Dead Ceremony
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17 9th Limb Yoga, Morro Bay
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
By The Sea Productions Presents: The Outsider
Shasta Ave, Morro Bay
OCTOBER 12 Peter Strauss Ranch, Agoura Hills
Prine
Hot Stuff
demonstration garden. Bring your gloves and weeding tools, as well as a rake and a wheelbarrow if you have them. Remember to wear comfortable clothes, a sunhat, and closed-toe shoes. Oct. 12 9 a.m.-noon Free. 805-450-3668. lvbhs.org/activities. City of Lompoc Drought Tolerant Garden, 1801 W. Central Ave., Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY ADVENTURES WITH NATURE: OCEANO’S BEAVERS Join State Park Docent Dan to learn about the beaver. Enjoy an easy-paced walk around the Oceano Lagoon as we search for evidence and signs of beaver activity. Meet at the Oceano Dunes Visitor Center. Moderate walk (five miles; two hours). RSVP by calling. Oct. 12 , 10 a.m.-noon Free. 805474-2664. centralcoastparks.org/awn/. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.
ASTROLOGY 101 BEGINNER CLASSES
Have you always been curious about astrology and your horoscope but don’t know where to start? Local professional astrologer Lori Waters will be teaching a five-week Astrology 101 course that will lead you through the basics of astrology by covering western astrology’s history and more. Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. through Oct. 18 $20. 805-270-3192. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach, pismobeach.org.
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.
BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. 510-362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS
CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. 970-710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.
CREATIVE MOVEMENT A dance-filled morning with Charlotte Ritter who has more than 50 years of expertise. Creative Movement is a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to connect through movement and imagination. Oct. 19 11 a.m.-noon Free for event. 805-481-1421. Exploration Discovery Center, 867 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.
DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing 805-619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach. EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA
The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its meeting on the third Saturday of each month. For more information, follow on Facebook at Bishop’s Peak EGA or visit the EGA website. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 16 Free. egausa.com. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach, 805-773-4832.
FALL FEST: A LATINX AND HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATION A free festival open to the public. Enjoy beautiful cultural performances, delicious food, a vendor maker market, games, and activities. The event’s organizers encourage local Latinx and Hispanic businesses to participate in this vibrant festival. Oct. 13 , 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 805-481-7339. bgcslo.org/events. Boys and Girls Clubs of South San Luis Obispo County Clubhouse, 1830 19th St., Oceano.
FLIRTY AND THRIVING
The Santa Maria Public Library hosts its next Flirty Fiction Book Club meeting on Monday, Oct. 14, from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. The group celebrates contemporary romance fiction titles and is open to ages 18 and over. October’s meeting will focus on Payback’s a Witch, by Lana Harper. Admission is free. Visit cityofsantamaria.org for more info.
FREEDOM FESTIVAL FUNDRAISER AND SILENT AUCTION Freedom Calling is a non-profit organization, dedicated to fighting human trafficking. The upcoming fundraiser Freedom Festival promises an evening of live music by Critical Mass, gourmet food, fine wine and beer, delectable desserts, inspiring guest speakers, a silent auction, and dancing. Oct. 12 4-8 p.m. $75. freedomcalling.org. The Bower Barn, 1095 Meadowood Place, Nipomo.
FULL MOON YOGA, MEDITATION, AND SOUND BATH Upcoming events include programs in October, November, and December. Visit site for tickets and more info. Oct. 17 my805tix.com/. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach.
MODEL RAIL DAYS AT THE OCEANO DEPOT Marvel at the amazing and detailed operating model railroads and displays of all sizes. Fun for the whole family. Free admission, and lots of free parking. Through Oct. 13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. slomra.org. Oceano Train Depot, 1650 Front St., Oceano, 805-489-5446.
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. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52
Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological. Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. 805-547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index. php/chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.
PISMO PIER CENTENNIAL A free, familyfriendly event commemorating the 100th anniversary of the iconic Pismo Beach Pier. Explore the pier’s rich history and enjoy delicious food, drinks, sweets from local vendors, and live music from all the eras (1924-2024). Oct. 11 12-7 p.m. Free. experiencepismobeach.com/pismo-piercentennial/. Pismo Beach Pier, West end of Pomeroy, Pismo Beach.
POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS
A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE
ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation,
and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. 805-440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.
SECOND INTERNATIONAL SUMMIT ON AEROSPACE AND MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Topics include: aerospace engineering and technology; mechanical engineering; aerodynamics and controls; space exploration in aerospace; and much more. Oct. 14 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. $749. spectrumconferences.com/2024/isame. Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1279 S. 13th St, Grover Beach, 805-478-6164. SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. 805-9046615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.
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. WMW HIGH VIBE HIKE Each month to keep us moving and focus on our mental health, we are offering an opportunity to connect with like-minded, passionate women who are here to lift one another up as we navigate life, work, family, and (fill in the blank). Oct. 12 9-11 a.m. my805tix.com/. Pismo Preserve, Mattie Road, Pismo Beach.
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.
ASTROLOGY BASICS: HOW TO READ YOUR BIRTH CHART This class will teach you how to use astrology for deeper self-understanding through learning how to read your natal chart. Event will go over archetypes, house systems, planetary rulers, how to synthesize all this information, and more. Email for more info. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. through Oct. 10 $150. cuesta.edu. Cuesta College Community Programs, Building 4100 Cuesta College Road, San luis obispo, 805-540-8282. CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays,
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 19
—C.W.
Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-270-3346.
CALIFORNIA RETIRED TEACHERS
ASSOC. DIVISION 23 LUNCHEON AND GENERAL MEETING CalRTA bimonthly luncheon will feature guest speaker Ed Cabrera from the League of Women Voters. Cabrera will present facts, and pros and cons on each of the propositions on the fall ballot, along with a Q-and-A. RSVP required. Oct. 10, 9:45 a.m.-1 p.m. $25. 805-748-6853. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
CENTRAL COAST POLYAMORY Hosting a discussion group featuring different topics relating to ethical non-monogamy every month. Third Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
CLIMATE ACTION GATHERING SLO
Climate Coalition is excited to host its
October meeting: Energy Efficiency for the Cold Season. With topics on what you can do at home to save energy and money. Oct. 10 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-781-5991.
DOWNSIZING MADE EASY Learn five easy steps to downsize. Simplifying your life should bring you joy not overwhelm. This fun and lively event promises to deliver. Oct. 17, 10 a.m. my805tix.com/. Villages of SLO, 55 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
FIFTH ANNUAL BUTTERFLY BALL: CRYSTALS AND CHRYSALISES An evening filled with music, food and drink, inspiring presentations, and a silent auction to support western monarch butterfly conservation. Oct. 12 4-8 p.m. my805tix.com/. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096.
FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour
San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and about the development of this area. Tours, led by docents, are free at 1:15 p.m Monday through Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Sundays, 2-3 p.m. and MondaysSaturdays, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Free. 657-4659182. missionsanluisobispo.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
GALA PRIDE AND DIVERSITY CENTER
BOARD MEETING (VIA ZOOM) Monthly meeting of the Gala Pride and Diversity Center Board of Directors. Meets virtually via Zoom and is open to members of the public. Visit galacc.org/events to fill out the form to request meeting access. Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. No admission fee. galacc.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
GPSBN: A CONVERSATION WITH SUPERVISOR JOAN HARTMANN An upcoming forum with Third District Supervisor Joan Hartmann. Supervisor Hartmann is the Chair for the Adult and Aging Network and will be answering questions on climate resilience for older adults, housing for older adults, and caregiving. Oct. 14 5:30-7 p.m. Free. zoom.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
GYM-N-LEARN Play your way into school readiness at Gym-N-Learn. Gymnastics and classroom-style activities are thoughtfully designed to build physical and social skills for school success. For ages 3.5-5, able to care for their own bathroom needs, and emotionally ready to be dropped off for 2.5 hours.
Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-noon through Oct. 19 $130 for four classes. 805-547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/contact-us.
Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., 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.
HISTORY CENTER GALA: WORKING HANDS An annual fundraiser to celebrate the work of the History Center. Get an exclusive preview of the History Center’s Working Hands exhibit and enjoy a dinner inspired by the cultures represented in the exhibit. Oct. 19 4-8 p.m. $150. 805-5430638. historycenterslo.org. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo.
HISTORY PODCAST: DOOR KEY’S 2024 SPOOKTACULAR To celebrate Halloween, all episodes of the history podcast Door Key will have a spooky theme to the history. You can find Door Key anywhere you stream podcasts. Through Oct. 31 Free. doorkey.buzzsprout.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A pro-recovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. Third Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. PLAY GROVE, AN OUTDOOR PRESCHOOL PROGRAM A nature-based and place-based enrichment program. This means we use the environment as our guide as we play, grow, create art, garden, and learn together. Play Grove will allow young children to access this experience alongside enthusiastic playworkers. Through June 7, 2025, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Options: 2 day, 3 day, or 5 day. 805-242-6301. onecoolearth.org/ play-grove.html. Jewish Community Center, 875 Laureate Lane, San Luis Obispo.
Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
Q-AND-A WITH CAL POLY PROFESSOR AND AUTHOR CHRISTIANE SCHROETER
Her new book, How to Master Your Goals: A Curated Collection of 1-Page Worksheets , offers practical, easy-tofollow tools for individuals seeking to achieve their personal and professional aspirations. Oct. 14 10 a.m.-noon hellohappynest.com/master-your-goals/. Kaffein Coffee Company, 1242 Monterey St., suite 110, San Luis Obispo, 805-540-0512.
SLO CLASSICAL ACADEMY DAYCARE AND PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE
Come and meet the teachers and staff, experience the campus, and learn more about the academy’s programs. Also features children’s activities and snacks. Oct. 12 , 9-11 a.m. sloclassical.org/event/ daycare-preschool-open-house/. SLO Classical Academy, 165 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, 805-548-8700.
SLO FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK
SALE With more than 10,000 books, CDs, and DVDs for adults, teens, and children. All proceeds benefit the SLO Library. Oct. 17-18 , 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Oct. 19, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 916-847-8987. slofol.org. San Luis Obispo Library, 995 Palm St., San Luis Obispo.
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, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY Stamp Collector? The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets in the SLO UMC Conference Room on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors welcome. For more info, contact SLOPS at slostampclub@ gmail.com. Third Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. 805-801-9112. San Luis Obispo United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.
SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+
AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)
Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
TECH BREW MEETUP Tech Brew is a free networking event where people interested in technology can hang out in an informal environment with a small TEDtalk-like presentation from an interesting speaker. Learn more online. Second Monday of every month, 5-7 p.m. 805-323-6706. meetup.com/softec/. StoryLabs, 102 Cross St, Suite 220, San Luis Obispo.
TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 805-5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, 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.
VICTORIAN MOURNING TRADITIONS AT
THE JACK HOUSE Step back in time and experience the customs and rituals of the Victorian Mourning Traditions at the Jack House. In collaboration with the History Center of San Luis Obispo County, this unique historical experience invites you to explore the fascinating ways people honored their loved ones. Oct. 13 , 1-4 p.m. Free; donations welcome. slocity.org/ JackHouse. The Jack House, 536 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
ANNUAL CAMBRIA SCARECROW
FESTIVAL 200 scarecrows will line the streets of Cambria and San Simeon. The festival is full of photo opportunities and happy discoveries at every turn. Perfect for all ages. Through Oct. 31 Free. cambriascarecrows.com. Cambria (various venues), Citywide, Cambria. CAMBRIA PINES LODGE CRAFT FAIR
With more than 60 registered vendors. Features a live band, a combo lunch deal, and a mini pumpkin patch by the Cambria Pines Nursery. Crafts include painted gourds, handcrafted ornaments, cards, jewelry, quilts, clothing, succulent pumpkins, and more. Oct. 12 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. 818-809-7910. cambriapineslodge.com/events/onsite. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.
FOOD & DRINK
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
BREAST CANCER FUNDRAISER AT BLAST825BREWERY FEATURING NICE &
SWELL Includes a fun battle between the Blast 825 Brewery Blast and Brew, Me n Eds, and Beso bartenders. With live music from Nice & Swell. Oct. 19 noon my805tix. com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777.
CHISMOSAS Y MIMOSAS DRAG BRUNCH
Hosted by Juicy CW, this brunch will be full of tricks and treats, with the spook-tacular Pam Cakez, Veronica Blanco, Nova Cane, and beats by DJ Suz. Oct. 19, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. my805tix.com/. A Mi Manera Mexican Cuisine, 1701 N. Broadway, 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.
Vote for your
After Sunset - The Loving Mosh Bittersweet Addiction - Azere Wilson
Booty Church - Shawna Mox
Can’t Stop - Hot 45
Feel My Love - IMVA
I Don’t Know Why - Big Sierra
Infinite Surrender - Elysian Moon
Maybe This Time - Cate Armstrong
OG Funk - Scott Martin
One Eyed Ghost - Ynana Rose
Overboard - Walk the Whale
Put Me On A Train - Noach Tangeras
Sailing Around Nassau - Little Tyme
Sirens Over Gravesend - Jovian Queen
Sky Blue - Carbon City Lights
The Coast - Gehrig Kniffen
What A Year - Gehrig Kniffen
Wish For You - Azere Wilson https://bit.ly/NTMAReadersChoice2024.com
Hot Stuff
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE INN Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805-3323532, 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, 805937-8110.
SECOND SATURDAY
OPEN AIR MARKET: LOS
TOWARD THE GOURDS
More than 60 vendors are slated to participate at the Cambria Neighbors Club’s annual Craft Fair, which will take place at the Cambria Pines Lodge on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event’s featured crafts will include painted gourds, handcrafted holiday ornaments, jewelry, quilts, and other items. There will also be food, live music, and a mini pumpkin patch. To find out more, visit cambrianeighbors.org.
ALAMOS A carefully curated open air artisan and farm market. Features great vintage finds, handwoven and hand dyed textiles, hand-spun yarn, organic body care products, and locally grown organic eats. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 805-722-4338. Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.
SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. 805-937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.
TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 805332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
A TASTE OF OLD TOWN ORCUTT Get a “taste” of more than 20 participating businesses that include wine tasting rooms, breweries, restaurants, and retail. Oct. 19, 1-4 p.m. my805tix.com/e/orcutt. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.
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
THE 40TH ANNUAL SANTA BARBARA
VINTNERS FESTIVAL Taste wines from more than 50 wineries while you meet winemakers and owners who share the details of why their wines are among the most elegant and sophisticated. Savor gourmet food from more than 25 regional restaurants and local food businesses. Oct. 19 1-4 p.m. $125. 805-688-0881. sbvintnersweekend.com/. Vega Vineyard and Farm, 9496 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton.
PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT KAENA
Spend the afternoon sipping delicious wine and capturing the beauty of the landscape on canvas. Oct. 12 , 11 a.m.2:30 p.m. $89. 805-325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Kaena at the Ranch, 800 E. Hwy 246, Solvang.
SOLVANG WINE AND TRUE CRIME TOUR
Each Friday and Saturday of October, the Solvang Wine and True Crime Tour will host groups of 12 or less at various time slots. Open to ages 21 and over. The tours kick off at Final Girl Wines in Solvang and proceed to various tasting rooms and bars in town. Fridays, Saturdays. through Oct. 31 thehauntghosttours.com/tours/ solvang-wine-tour/. Final Girl Wines, 485 Alisal Road, unit 152, Solvang.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO
TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head Games
Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. 805-819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com.
COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave, Lompoc.
MUSIC
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS CELEBRATE THE 60S PLUS DANCE With Riptide Big Band and vocalists Bob Nations and Mitch Latting. Free admission thanks to the Community Foundation, SLO County. Oct. 13 1:30-4 p.m. Free. 775-813-5186. RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.
THE FAITHFULL AND NEARVANA Enjoy these tributes to Nirvana and Pearl Jam. Oct. 12 , 4 p.m. my805tix.com/. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S Broadway St., Ste. 101, Orcutt, 805-934-3777.
FESTIVAL MOZAIC: JOHN NOVACEK IN RECITAL A free pre-concert lecture on the stage at 1 p.m. Join the 2024 Artist-inResidence, pianist John Novacek, for a solo recital in the Boyd Concert Hall at Allan Hancock College. Oct. 19 2 p.m. Single tickets start at $40 plus $5 fee. 805-7813009. festivalmozaic.org/show-details/ john-novacek-in-recital. Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.
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, 805-623-8866.
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, 805-623-8866.
MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY
Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. 805-925-0464. coelhomusic.com/ Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.
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
DAVID NAIL LIVE With opening act Logan Livermore and the 154. Oct. 20 4:30 p.m. my805tix.com/. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, 805-686-4785.
LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, 805-686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, 805-686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
THE SURFACE WALKERS A psychedelic rock audio-visual theatrical experience. Oct. 12 7-11 p.m. my805tix.com/. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714. THE TRAVELING WILBURYS REVUE Tributes to Harrison, Dylan, and other legendary Wilburys. Oct. 20 6 p.m. my805tix.com. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714.
THE U2XPERIENCE A U2 tribute. Oct. 19 7 p.m. my805tix.com/. FCB, 110 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 805-810-0714.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY AGHS CHOIR AND BAND FALL CONCERT Enjoy the AGHS Fall Concert which features the Choir, Concert Band, and Wind Ensemble. Enjoy a dynamic mix of classical and contemporary pieces, showcasing student talent through powerful harmonies and instrumentation. Oct. 16 , 7-10 p.m. $5-$10. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/aghs-choirband-fall-concert/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
MOTOWN MANIA! THE GOLDEN HITS OF THE TEMPTATIONS AND THE SUPERSTARS OF MOTOWN Revisit the classic songs and stars of the Motown era. Complete with heart-stopping harmonies, dazzling choreography, and the memorable hits you love most from Motown’s golden age. Oct. 12 7:30-10:30 p.m. $53.50-$74.50. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/wcpa-motownmania/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. SWEET DREAMS: MANDY BARNETT SINGS PATSY CLINE An unforgettable evening where classic country and timeless standards come alive as Mandy Barnett interprets the music of Patsy Cline. Once dubbed as “the Judy Garland of our time.” Oct. 11 7:30-10:30 p.m. $34-$54. 805-489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ sweet-dreams-mandy-barnett/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. m
—C.W.
ARTS BRIEFS
Polls open to determine New Times Music Awards Readers’ Choice winner
To determine the winner of this year’s Readers’ Choice Award in the 2024 New Times Music Awards competition, the New Times Media Group is collecting votes through Monday, Oct. 28. The polls opened on Thursday, Oct. 10.
This year marks the 16th annual New Times Music Awards competition and showcase, which will feature performances from the contest’s finalists. The live concert will be held on Friday, Nov. 22, at SLO Brew Rock, located at 855 Aerovista Lane, San Luis Obispo. Tickets to the showcase are available in advance at my805tix.com.
Participants of the competition must reside primarily in either San Luis Obispo County or northern Santa Barbara County. Entrants are allowed to enter a maximum of 13 songs and one album, and all submissions are scored by a panel of judges.
Sponsors of the annual event include Big Big SLO, Robbo Music, The Krush, Pirate Radio, SLO Brew, 1st Capital Bank, and Ernie Ball Music Man. For more info on the 2024 New Times Music Awards, call (805) 546-8208 or email ntma@ newtimesslo.com. To vote, find the NTMA Readers’ Choice page at newtimesslo.com.
Riptide Big Band’s next Santa Maria show transports attendees to the 1960s
The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens Club hosts its 1960s-themed dance party, with live music from the Riptide Big Band, at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center in Santa Maria on Sunday, Oct. 13, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Admission to the event is free, thanks to grant funding from the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County, according to press materials.
Vocalists Bob Nations and Mitch Latting will accompany the Riptide Big Band during the dance concert. Based in the Santa Maria Valley, the local ensemble is led by former music teacher Judy Lindquist and has played at venues across Central Coast for several years.
The group includes musicians from both Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties and specializes in big band era music, soft rock from the ’60s and ’70s, the music standards of the ’30s and ’40s, and “pretty much anything written for standard big band orchestration,” according to the group’s website.
For more info on the band’s upcoming performance, call (775) 813-5186 or visit riptidebb.com. The Elwin Mussell Senior Center is located at 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.
To find out more about the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County, call (805) 543-2323 or visit cfsloco.org. m
Celebrate and appreciate
The local chapter of the California Writers Club hosts upcoming author lectures
BY SAMANTHA HERRERA
Based in Nipomo, the Coastal Dunes chapter of the California Writers Club (CWC) will be celebrating its fifth annual anthology of prose and poetry at a free event meant to expose locals to the vast world of creative writing.
Get writing
Residents are invited to attend a free writing workshop and lecture series in celebration of California Writers Week hosted by the Coastal Dunes chapter of the California Writers Club at the Santa Maria Public Library on Oct. 13 from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, visit coastaldunescwc.com.
The CWC prides itself on being the oldest writing club in the country, and the Coastal Dunes chapter was founded in 2014 by Catherine Kitcho. She focused on discovering new authors from around SLO and Santa Barbara counties, assisting them in developing their talent, and sponsoring free educational meetings to promote professional growth, said current CWC President Viviana Hall.
“Each branch is a hub for writers to meet and cultivate the craft of writing,” she said. “Our events are held on the first Saturday of each month at the Nipomo Library from 10 a.m. to noon, and admissions are free.”
Hall said professional writers, including professors and authors, hold lectures and workshops and answer questions for attendees.
“The workshops are on various themes and genres, whether crafting compelling mysteries, penning heartfelt memoirs, writing poetry, or mastering the art of speculative fiction,” she said. “Whether you dream of traditional publishing or want to explore self-publishing, our events cover it all.”
This month, in celebration of California Writers Week—traditionally the third week of October—members are in for a special treat as the CWC will launch its fifth annual event.
Held at the Santa Maria Public Library on Oct. 13 from 1 to 5 p.m., this event will host lectures from California authors as well as offer a sneak peek at the chapter’s new anthology of
prose and poetry book, titled Splash: Stories and Poems. Local artists who are featured in the book will have five minutes to give readings of their poetry and stories.
The first round of presentations will include talks from Mary Firestone, who wrote a memoir about surviving the Montecito mudslide in 2018; Lida Sideris, a Southern California author who writes mysteries based loosely on when she was working as an entertainment attorney for a well-known movie studio; and Mara Purl, a former actor from Days of Our Lives turned author who writes the MilfordHaven novels.
The second round of lectures will host Gerald Di Pego, a screenwriter who helped create movies such as The Forgotten, Angel Eyes, and Message in a Bottle before he became a novelist and wrote the book Laketown; club founder and SLO County local Kitcho, who’s written nine books and is currently working on her book series Dark Side Redemption; and Lee Herrick, a Fresno City College professor and California poet laureate who’s published four poetry books.
“At the end of the presentations by our speakers, we will be introducing our fifth anthology of prose and poetry and bring our community and club closer to the craft of writing,” Hall said. “This is an event that is for everyone, and we will provide free snacks and refreshments.”
Hall said CWC’s roots date back to 1872 after a group of San Francisco Journal journalists founded The Bohemian Club in San Francisco, which provided an environment for young male artists such as Jack London and Mark Twain to meet.
Similar clubs that allowed women to join started to pop up in different Bay Area cities, and in 1909, Jack London and a few of his friends from The Bohemian Club decided to break off and start their own group, the CWC. There are now 22 branches across the state, from Orange County to Mendocino.
“This period prioritized moral equity and fundamental human rights where the California Writers Club emerged,” Hall said. The club was formed to celebrate writers’ impacts on society, as their words help shape societal values, cultural narratives, and community engagement, she said, and the CWC is still true to that mission today. m
Reach New Times Staff Writer Samantha Herrera, from the Sun’s sister paper, at sherrera@ newtimesslo.com.
BELOVED FOUNDER: Catherine Kitcho, who created the Coastal Dunes chapter of the California Writers Club in 2014, has written books in fiction, business, marketing, humor, cooking, and wine and spirits.
POET LAUREATE: A Professor at Fresno City College and California poet laureate, Lee Herrick has two poetry books published, with his most recent book published in September 2024.
The Paderewski Festival Gala Concert: Janina Fialkowska with the SLO Symphony Works by Mozart, Paderewski, Mussorgsky/Ravel, and a world premiere commission by Stefan Podell
Saturday, November 2nd Tickets at PACSLO.org
PCPA - Pacific Conservatory Theatre Production of
Dour power
Co-writer and director Todd Phillips (Old School, The Hangover, Joker) helms this sequel about Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix), a tormented comedian who murdered several people in the first installment and now resides in Arkham State Hospital awaiting trial. In the hospital, he meets and falls in love with Lee Quinzel (Lady Gaga), beginning a deeply dysfunctional relationship. (140 min.)
Glen: An opening cartoon finds Joker impersonated by his own shadow, who takes over his show, leaves him half undressed on stage, and abandons him as three policemen arrive and beat him. It sets up the film’s central conceit. Is Joker a split personality? Is Arthur a good person and Joker a psychic invention his mind created to protect him? I can see why audiences and critics are finding the film challenging and less than entertaining. It’s slow and deeply depressing. Just the jagged escarpment of Joaquin Phoenix’s emaciated spine and shoulder blades is hard to watch. Arthur’s lawyer, Maryanne Stewart (Catherine Keener), knows the only way to possibly free Arthur is to convince a jury he’s not guilty by reason of insanity. But is he? Or did he simply snap. Anna: I’m not sure what the expectation from most for this film was, but I’m guessing that perhaps it isn’t scoring highly with audiences
Edwards RPX Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande
because it’s so bleak and because it’s so song heavy. It’s basically a musical. While we saw the grime of Arthur’s life in the first film, there’s an overwhelming sadness in this reprisal of the role—Arthur is not just broken but beaten, and when a small ray of sunshine presents itself in Lee, he can’t help but gaze toward the light. Unfortunately, Lee’s ideal is swept up in the fantasy of the Joker and has little to do with Arthur himself. The two are ill-fated lovers, and there’s no fun romp through bad behavior here: It’s all just painful. I think there’s more here than a lot of people are giving it credit for—this film has a lot to say. Glen: It definitely has a message, and that message that is our culture is broken. We have a fetishistic fascination with serial killers, and our justice, incarceration, and mental health systems are irrevocably broken. Shout out to Brendan Gleeson as Arkham guard Jackie Sullivan. He’s a reminder that supposedly upstanding people can be just as psycho as Joker. There are zero likeable characters here. Steve Coogan plays talk show host Paddy Meyers, a despicable prick exploiting Arthur’s illness. I had to look this up, but folie à deux is a French phrase describing two people who share a mental illness, and that absolutely defines Arthur and Lee. They’re both living in a fantasy, which reveals itself in the song-anddance numbers that spring up throughout the
story. Arthur is a sympathetic character because we know how awful his life has been and how badly he’s been treated. Lee has it all—wealth and education—but she’s still a twisted maniac.
Unlike Margot Robbie’s turn as Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad (2016), this film plays the story straight, and this dark reading of the DC Universe may have turned people off. Anna: I remember when Suicide Squad came out. It seemed like there was a rash spreading through town of young women and girls playing dress-up as Harley Quinn, and I remember thinking that the wrong kind of character was
getting romanticized. Gaga’s Lee isn’t trying to strike that same cute-little-prankster vibe, instead unfolding a dark character with a singular obsession. When Arthur reveals a human side of himself, Lee is completely thrown off and turned off. While Arthur may be a monster in his own right, what the world has done to him is even uglier. It chewed him up and spit him out. m
New Times Senior Staff Writer Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
NOBODY WANTS THIS
What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2024
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Joanne (Kristen Bell) is an open book, at least on her podcast that she hosts with her sister, Morgan (Justine Lupe). The two are looking for their big break, but what that means to each of them feels very different. Both are rather unlucky in love, and audiences eat up their stories of bad dates and dating nightmares. When Joanne attends a party at producer Ashley’s (Sherry Cola) house, she meets Noah (Adam Brody), who takes her by surprise when she finds out he’s a rabbi. The two have instant chemistry and can’t stay away from each other, despite Noah’s family and their protests. Why can’t he find a nice Jewish girl?
Bell and Brody are a match here. The two have that head-over-heels energy that is utterly convincing. Will they be able to beat the odds and walk into their happily ever after together, or is Noah’s family right—are the two doomed for failure? It’s a classic meddling-families kind of tale, and though it’s a tad cliché, it’s respectful and has fun with the familiar tropes.
SHIKSA OR SHIDDUCH? Agnostic podcaster Joanne (Kristen Bell) falls for Rabbi Noah (Adam Brody), in the Netflix series Nobody Wants This
If you love a charming rom-com, Nobody Wants This is right up your alley. (10 30-min. episodes min.)
—Anna
WOLFS
What’s it rated? R When? 2024
Where’s it showing? Apple TV Plus
Writer-director Jon Watts (Spider-Man: No Way Home) helms this mismatched-buddy comedy about two professional fixers—George Clooney and Brad Pitt—who are individually hired to clean up a mess involving Manhattan District Attorney Margaret (Amy Ryan), who ends up with a dead one-night stand in her hotel room. She calls a number given to her for just such an occasion, unbeknownst to her that the hotel’s mysterious owner, Pam, has called in another fixer for the same job.
Naturally, Margaret’s Man and Pam’s Man (as they’re called in the credits) don’t like each other and don’t want to work together. Cue the acrimony as the two men, who have more in common than they care to admit, make their way through a violence-filled night that forces them to set aside their egos and collaborate.
Clooney and Pitt are as charismatic as usual, but despite this being an action film, its sleepy pacing and genre clichés result in a middling affair. Traded barbs and withering silences
only go so far. Add in that both “fixers” are incompetent, and you’re left wondering who this film was made for. If I hadn’t seen it, I’d be OK with that. It’s a bit of a snooze. (108 min.) m
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STAR-CROSSED: Lee Quinzel (Lady Gaga) and Joker (Joaquin Phoenix) share a dark romance in the sequel to the blockbuster 2019 film Joker, in Joker: Folie à Deux, screening in local theaters.
FIXERS: Global superstars George Clooney and Brad Pitt star as two lone wolf fixers who are individually hired to cover up the same mess, forcing them to work together, in Wolfs, streaming on Apple TV Plus.
Rosé jubilee
The 40th annual Santa Barbara County Vintners Festival celebrates milestone in style
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Cabanas and cabernets await the attendees of a yearly wine mecca with a rich four-decade history.
More than 60 local winemakers are slated to show off their pours during 2024’s Santa Barbara County Vintners Festival. The 40th annual fest’s afternoon grand tasting will be held at Vega Vineyard and Farm in Buellton on Saturday, Oct. 19.
Pinots, chardonnays, syrahs, and more will be among the event’s featured wine tasting options. There’ll also be food from several restaurants, chefs, and farmers available for guests to pair with their sips.
Prior to and following the grand tasting, a handful of wineries and tasting rooms across Santa Barbara County will host additional festivities tied to the regional celebration, including a spooky movie night
in Santa Ynez to help usher in the Halloween season. Here’s a rundown of the fest’s various happenings, just in case you’re not already sold on a free sunset screening of Hocus Pocus—on Oct. 19 at Sunstone Winery—with a s’mores cart on-site.
The main course
The headlining event of the Santa Barbara County Vintners Festival is the grand tasting on Oct. 19, which promises an afternoon of virtually limitless wine pours from participating wineries that hail from Santa Maria, Lompoc, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, Buellton, Los Alamos, and other wine country hubs.
Alma Rosa Winery, Bien Nacido Estate, Cambria Winery, Fess Parker Winery and Vineyard, Rancho Sisquoc Winery, Stolpman Vineyards, and
Vintners assemble
Visit sbvintnersweekend.com for more info on this year’s Santa Barbara County Vintners Festival. The grand tasting will take place on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 1 to 4 p.m., at Vega Vineyard and Farm, located at 9496 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton.
Zaca Mesa Winery and Vineyards make up a fraction of the lineup, while food purveyors include the Santa Maria Inn’s Century Room, Coast Range, Drover’s Doughnuts, Full of Life Flatbread, High on the Hog Catering, Hitching Post 2, The Salty Brigade Kitchen, and several others. General admission to the grand tasting is $125, but large groups looking to splurge should consider splitting the cost of a private cabana to lounge at during the fest. The package costs $2,500, and includes the cabana, eight early entry tickets, two on-site parking spots (while general entrants are shuttled in from an off-site parking area), a charcuterie spread with two bottles of wine, and a pack of six assorted wines to take home.
SCENIC SPRAWL: The 40th annual Santa Barbara County Vintners Festival’s grand tasting event will be held on Oct. 19 at Vega Vineyard and Farm, a sprawling property in Buellton with acres of vines for guests to explore, along with a farmstand and other attractions.
BETWEEN THE VINES: An annual tradition, the Santa Barbara County Vintners Festival celebrates dozens of local vintners, including Lumen Wines in Los Alamos, and the distinct flavors that make the Central Coast a beloved wine destination.
Fizzy lifting drinks
VIP package hopefuls should register early, as the cabana option dwindles from “now seating” to fleeting with each passing day. But general admission holders at the grand tasting will have additional opportunities to luxuriously lounge around, including at the Rio Vista Chevrolet Bubble Lounge.
Visitors of this designated area can find couch seating and enjoy sips of exceptionally bubbly drinks from 16 participating wineries.
The vintners set to pour sparkling wines in conjunction with the Bubble Lounge are Barden Wines, Carhartt Family Wines, Dreamcote Wine Co., Folded Hills, Foxen Vineyard and Winery, Future Perfect Wines, The Hilt Estate, Lumen Wines, Ranchos de Ontiveros, Presqu’ile Winery, Riverbench Vineyard and Winery, Saarloos & Sons, Sanford Winery, Strange Family Vineyards, Sunstone Winery, and Vega Vineyard and Farm.
Sights and sounds
Classic rock, Americana, and R&B act Generic Clapton is set to provide live tunes at the grand tasting on Oct. 19, while additional festivities that surround the main event will also pair wines with entertainment throughout the weekend.
In conjunction with the fest, Montemar Wines in Lompoc will host an afternoon of wine offerings and live music, on Friday, Oct. 18, from 2 to 5 p.m. The following evening, about an hour after the grand tasting concludes, Sunstone Winery in Santa Ynez will host its aforementioned Hocus Pocus movie night.
The free Oct. 19 event kicks off at 5 p.m. and will feature wines available for sale by the bottle or glass, as well as popcorn and s’mores, and dinner options from Oak and Fire BBQ for purchase.
Extra helpings
Other local happenings tied to the Vintners Festival include: a unique flight arrangement program at Donnachadh Family Wines in Los Olivos, offered between Thursday, Oct. 17, and Monday, Oct. 21; Kaena Wines’ 25th anniversary celebration in Solvang with special sales on library wines, from Friday, Oct. 18, to Sunday, Oct. 20; and Future Perfect Wines’ elegant high tea ceremony at Diamond Sky Ranch on Sunday, Oct. 20, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. m
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wineries participating in this year’s Santa Barbara County Vintners Festival.
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