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A new after-school program for some Santa Maria-Bonita schools [4] and the state’s new on-campus cellphone rules [5]

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NEWS

Solvang denies nightclub permit [3]

ARTS

PCPA’s new artistic director [18]

EATS

Wine, pizza, and vinyl in Solvang [22]

Contents

AUGUS T 6 - AUGUS T 13, 2026 VOL . 2 7 NO. 24

A

ug. 13 is the first day of school for Santa Maria Valley students, which can mean so many things—a new school, new friends, new subjects to be interested in.

For some local youth, it will also mean the chance to participate in a new after-school program with Think Together. For our annual Education Today issue, Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood digs into what that care will look like [4], while Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal from the Sun’s sister paper talks to local districts about cellphone use on campus [5].

Also, find stories about Solvang’s rejection of a proposed nightclub [3]; PCPA’s new artistic director, who’s got history with the local theater [18]; the Analogue Room in Solvang [22].

Camillia Lanham editor

BACK TO SCHOOL: As local students head back onto campus, they could have access to a new after-school program, and they will definitely face new rules about cellphone use on campus.

Cover image from Adobe Stock > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

NEWS

News Briefs ..........................................................................3 Political Watch....................................................................3 Spotlight.................................................................................6

Hot Stuff ...............................................................................10

ARTS

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

OPINION

Commentary ........................................................................8 Letters .....................................................................................8 Web Poll .................................................................................8 Mayfield..................................................................................8 Canary .....................................................................................9

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MOVIES

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

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News

August 6 - August 13, 2026

➤ After hours [4] ➤ Switch off for good [5] ➤ Spotlight [6] PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CITY OF SOLVANG

POLITICAL WATCH •U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-California) asked Sable Offshore Corp. CEO and Chairman Jim Flores in a July 28 letter to cease all Santa Ynez Unit oil drilling operations. According to Schiff’s office, Sable refused to provide information about its communications with the Trump administration—specifically about the Defense Production Act (DPA)—to multiple California legislators who sent inquiries in late May. “Californians are owed a transparent accounting of your company’s repeated circumvention of state law,” Schiff wrote to Flores. Schiff acknowledged a June letter from law firm Gibson Dunn on Sable’s behalf, which he said describes the Santa Ynez Unit restart as “merely complying” with a government order directed at the company through the DPA. “However, the letter completely neglects the fact that, according to the federal government itself, Sable asked the administration to issue such an order. The Office of Legal Counsel’s opinion specifically references Sable’s request,” Schiff wrote. “The fact that Sable refuses to acknowledge this or provide a copy of its own request to the federal government for the American public to see is quite telling.” Schiff’s July 28 letter includes a list of 10 questions for Flores, including: “Did you communicate nonpublic information to a select group of investors concerning your strategy to convince [federal officials] to assist in your preemption of California law, and did this strategy involve offering a round of golf with Phil Mickelson?”

•U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) led his fellow co-chairs of the Congressional Cut Flower Caucus in introducing a bipartisan resolution to officially recognize the month of July 2026 as American Grown Flower and Foliage Month. “California produces nearly three quarters of all American-grown cut flowers, and I’ve seen firsthand the vital role these farms play in supporting local jobs, small businesses, and the long-term strength of our agricultural sector,” Carbajal said in a July 30 statement. U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley), co-chair of the caucus, described the American Grown Flower and Foliage Month resolution as building upon the Don Young American Grown Act—a bipartisan bill that requires that any cut flowers or cut green plants officially on display in public areas of the Executive Office of the President, Department of Defense, or Department of State be grown in the U.S., District of Columbia, or U.S. territory.

• On July 30, U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California) and Chuck Schumer (D-New York) introduced the Anti-Corruption Bureau Creation Act. This legislation would create the nation’s first independent federal agency dedicated to rooting out corruption across the executive branch and “stopping presidents from turning public power into private profit,” according to Padilla’s office. If enacted, the new bureau would be led by a seven-member Senate-confirmed board with fixed terms, strict independence protections, and partisan-balance requirements, while given investigative oversight and public-reporting powers.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau Creation Act would also establishe a private right of action for the public and state attorneys general to sue for recoveries and forfeitures from certain federal officials, including the president and vice president. Padilla and Schumer announced the legislation during the Public Citizen Combatting Corruption forum. “With Trump, there’s clearly no effort to hide the corruption. That’s why I’m joining [Schumer] on this new bill, empowering everyday Americans … to be able to sue to take back every corrupt dollar that the president and the vice president or any future president or vice president makes through corruption while in office,” Padilla said at the forum. “When a president uses the office for personal profit, that is not ‘just the way it is,’ despite what Trump wants you to believe.” m

MURMURS ON THE DANCE FLOOR: During its Aug. 3 meeting, the Solvang Planning Commission denied Oligarlo Alvarez’s application to repurpose the vacant Alisal Cellars property into a new nightclub and dance hall.

Solvang Planning Commission rejects nightclub proposal Amid the queue for a permit, a hopeful nightclub operator couldn’t get past the city’s bouncers—concerned Solvang officials.

On Aug. 3, the Solvang Planning Commission vetoed a property owner’s application to transform the vacant site formerly known as Alisal Cellars into a new nightclub destination, despite the project’s consistency with downtown policies, according to city staff.

Planning Commissioner Aaron Petersen recused himself from the 4-0 vote because he owns property within 500 feet of the project site on Alisal Road.

Other commissioners scrutinized several components of the nightclub pitch, including its proposed 2 a.m. closing time and the applicant’s intent to serve alcohol but not food.

“I don’t think it would be very difficult to prove when you have alcohol available for hours without the availability of food, it provides a public health hazard, … and a public safety issue,” Planning Commissioner William Zigler said. “I don’t think that’s an opinion at all. It’s a pretty easily verified fact.”

When Planning Commissioner Jack Williams asked applicant Oligarlo Alvarez if he believed the nightclub would generate enough foot traffic past midnight to warrant staying open until 2 a.m., Alvarez said he anticipates those late hours would be the venue’s busiest.

“People like going out late, [for] dancing and drinking,” Alvarez told commissioners. “They’ll get there around 10, 10:30 p.m. … By midnight, they’ll want to keep drinking and drinking.”

Alvarez’s application included a rundown of security measures the venue would implement, such as employing a minimum of two security personnel at the nightclub’s entry door and video cameras at each entrance and exit.

Speakers during public comment at the Planning Commission hearing ranged from nearby homeowners to business operators who neighbor the project site.

One speaker, Alex Jones, said he was a father of four and a fourth generation Santa Ynez Valley resident.

“I came tonight because I heard a nightclub was trying to get approval at old Alisal Cellars, and I was a little bit concerned because I live on Alisal Road,” Jones said. “Those concerns were validated after hearing the applicant’s answers, unfortunately. I’m all for business and fun and people having a good time, but the character of Solvang doesn’t seem compatible with a business where people show up at 10:30 and, using the applicant’s words, … drink and drink and drink.”

Local developer Ed St. George—who’s currently suing Solvang for red-tagging one of his hotel projects—told the Planning Commission that he believes the city’s transient occupancy tax (TOT) revenue will drop to “record lows” if a nightclub of

this kind were to open.

“This town shuts down at 9 p.m., and as much as people like to complain about it, they actually love it. That’s why they come here. It’s got a great smalltown feel,” St. George said. “I like new businesses.

You know that. I like to see change. I really do, probably more than anyone in this room. This is not the right project.

“Approve this project and you won’t have to worry about me coming up here anymore,” he continued, “because I’m out of here.”

The motion to deny Alvarez’s application for the conditional use permit “due to the proposed use constituting a hazard to public health, safety, and welfare” passed 4-0. Solvang Community Development Director Rafael Castillo reminded commissioners that Alvarez can appeal their decision to the City Council.

—Caleb Wiseblood

County leads the state in publicly funded child care expansion A recent statewide report highlights Santa Barbara County’s heightened response to unmet child care needs. The publicly funded services are provided at reduced or no cost based on household size and income.

The California Budget and Policy Center, a nonpartisan research nonprofit, released findings in July from a study about the state’s strategies for increasing child care access. Santa Barbara County increased enrollment in publicly funded care at the highest rate when compared to all 58 counties. Enrollment grew by 160 percent between 2021 and 2024. The county added more than 2,000 licensed spots, and many are subsidized, according to the report.

“That matters enormously here because Santa Barbara County is one of the most expensive places in California to raise a child,” Jacqui Banta said in an email interview with the Sun. Banta is the chief operating officer of the Children’s Resource and Referral Discovery Museum (CRR), an agency that’s helped lead the charge. The progress has been made possible by collaboration, she added, with support from the county’s Education Office and the Child Care Planning Council, First 5 Santa Barbara County, the Board of Supervisors, the Santa Barbara Foundation, and more.

Partnerships with municipal planners during permitting and infrastructure investments from county supervisors also helped, Banta explained.

More than 15 new sites for infants have opened, she added, like CRR’s WINGS Infant Center in Santa Maria. The acronym stands for Where Inclusion, Nurture, and Growth Soar. It serves kids from 6 weeks to 2 years old, and the ribbon was officially cut in May this year.

In 2024, when the Santa Maria Planning Commission greenlit the project, the Sun reported that the county only had licensed space for 1 in 10

infants. Banta reiterated that figure again.

“There are 16,883 children ages 0 to 2 in this county and 1,457 licensed spaces for them,” Banta said.

As kids get to the preschool age, there’s licensed space for 7 in 10. School district programs help but leave a gap for younger children, so giving families a choice between different types of sites is also important.

“We support family child care homes and centers with the same seriousness because a system that only builds centers does not actually serve the families in front of us,” Banta said.

Parents may want their child cared for in a bilingual home or one with similar cultural beliefs. Home centers are often more flexible with nontraditional hours, too.

The county is two-thirds of the way toward its goal of opening 3,000 licensed child care spots by June 2030, Banta said.

“What Santa Barbara County built over the last five years can be sustained,” Banta said, “but it will take continued local investment and continued partnership.”

—Madison White

Guadalupe cancels its Royal Theater reboot Nearly nine months after kicking off the historic Royal Theater’s long-awaited restoration, Guadalupe leaders lowered the curtain on the project.

“If we continue the Royal Theater [construction], by the end of this fiscal year, we will be $2.6 million in debt,” City Administrator David Trujillo told the City Council during its July 28 meeting. “That’s negative cash flow.”

According to city staff’s projections, to continue construction efforts tied to the theater’s revival “results in an approximately $7.6 million lower June 2027 cash position than stopping construction.”

“If I were to tell you to continue construction, I would be doing a disservice to this community,” Trujillo told the council. “Until we have $13 million in the general fund, we cannot start this project.

That’s where this project went wrong.”

Trujillo added that budgetary reports prepared by past iterations of the city staff “intermixed” enterprise funds with the general fund, which gave officials the wrong impression about funds at the city’s disposal.

Guadalupe Finance Director Eli Martinez said that current staff is “still looking into this,” amid finishing audit reports “going back to 2022, 2023.”

During public comment, former Guadalupe mayor Frances Romero urged the council to heed Trujillo’s and Martinez’s advice.

“You have competent professional staff for the first time in 12 years; listen to them for a change,” Romero said. “[Past staff] apparently didn’t have any expertise at being able to balance a checkbook.”

Before taking part in the 5-0 vote to “terminate” the Royal Theater project while preserving the historic building “to the extent possible,” Councilmember Amelia Villegas said that looking back at the actions of past city officials serves no purpose.

“We just need to look at who we have now— who are in the positions to evaluate the financial situation,” Villegas continued, “and look at options.”

Councilmember Whitney Furness requested that the council take part in “a big lessons learned discussion” in the near future, “so that we don’t run into this again.”

Guadalupe resident Mira Beyeler-Ramirez expressed disappointment over the city’s handling of the Royal Theater project.

“Myself and individuals have been coming up to this very stand for years trying to prevent the exact situation that is happening right now,” Beyeler-Ramirez said during public comment.

“It’s frustrating and saddening because all of this was preventable. … There do need to be long, hard conversations—especially for the incoming elected officials come November—about how to make sure that this doesn’t happen again.” m —Caleb Wiseblood

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Tunnel elementary schools, and at Arellanes, “I think what El Camino, Fesler, and Tommie Kunst junior resonated with high schools. them was seeing Think Together recently set out to connect that it’s not just another after-school with SMBSD families, as well as community Think Together marks county debut with members interested in applying for partprogram where the revamped after-school program on 13 campuses kids come, and sit, time after-school program jobs, by hosting informational booths at public gatherings, and are expected

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD including a community fair at Arellanes to do their homework, and nobody’s really Junior High School and hiring events at the making a connection with them,” Wallace hen mid-August rolls around, a new Santa Maria Inn. said. “They were able to actually see us in group will lead after-school activities Hiring managers were there in person at the action … and the great enrichment programs at 13 schools—nine elementary schools latter in late July to collect résumés and hold that we have. and four middle schools—in the Santa Mariaimmediate on-the-spot interviews.

“We [offer] college and career-type clubs Bonita School District (SMBSD).

“Once we get school started, we’ll continue that students get really interested in,” she The new arrangement for the 2026-27 our hiring efforts throughout the year,” Think explained. “Clubs like cosmetology, … school year marks Think Together’s first time Together Vice President of Talent Acquisition robotics, videography—things they might not serving schools in Santa Barbara County. But and Organizational have available to them yet in the statewide nonprofit’s local ties don’t start Development Holly Perry middle school or even upper there. told the Sun. elementary grades. We’re Longtime Lompoc resident Katy Wallace Back to school “Our highest need right giving kids an opportunity worked on local school campuses—in To find out more about Think now is our program leader to see that they are capable positions ranging from special education Together and its upcoming no-cost position, and it’s an entryof doing these things at a teacher to school principal—years before after-school offerings at 13 different level role, so you don’t have taking on her role as Think Together’s director very young age.” school campuses across the Santa to come into it with any For SMBSD of district partnerships for the Central Coast Maria Valley, visit thinktogether.org. For experience,” Perry said. “A Superintendent Darren and Central Valley areas in 2024. additional details about the nonprofit’s new partnership with the Santa Marialot of people that take this McDuffie, the district’s “My focus right now is truly on Santa Bonita School District, visit smbsd.org. role are generally college new partnership with Maria-Bonita and making sure things are age, [with] changing school Think Together reflects a running smoothly there before we branch schedules and things like commitment to supporting out any further on the Central Coast,” said that, so we kind of stay hiring year-round.” students’ “academic and social-emotional Wallace, who previously helped spearhead Once hired, entry level program leaders go well-being through a whole-child approach,” Think Together’s partnership with the Rio through several days of training, Perry added, while finding new ways for students to benefit School District in Oxnard. as part of an onboarding orientation. from fulfilling learning experiences outside of Earlier this year, Santa-Maria Bonita sifted “Then they do what we call a site shadow, regular school hours. through more than a dozen bids from afterwhere they can actually watch others in the “Through extending learning and school program providers in and outside of role, and ask questions, and observe,” Perry engagement beyond the school day, we California. It narrowed down its top picks to said. “Honestly, any [college] major tends to are creating dynamic, safe after-school the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Central Coast, thrive in this role if you love working for kids. environments where SMBSD students can the Santa Maria Valley YMCA, and Think … We’re looking for somebody who really explore new interests, build confidence, and Together. wants to tie their work to a deeper purpose, thrive,” McDuffie told the Sun via email. “We Of those three providers—who all won because they make the biggest impact. are excited to partner with Think Together on contracts from the district—Think Together They’re the ones working directly with the this endeavor.” earned the highest marks during the students.” / During the 2026-27 school year, Think evaluation period. During that process, district Together will lead no-cost after-school leaders visited schools in other parts of the Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at offerings at Arellanes, Jiménez, Libbon, state, including Compton, to observe Think cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

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EVEN IT OUT: Most Central Coast school district phone policies prohibit smartphone use for elementary and middle school users, but the restrictions vary across high schools.

Switch off for good California’s Phone-Free School Act took effect in July, but local parents say enforcement isn’t consistent

BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL

T

wo years after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the Phone-Free School Act, kids in California are about to find out the effects of the bill once they return from summer break.

By July 1, 2026, every school district, county office of education, and charter school had to develop and adopt policies to limit on-campus smartphone use. The Phone-Free School Act makes the restrictions mandatory rather than optional. The state-mandated local program must also be updated every five years.

While parents in San Luis Obispo County welcomed the requirement, many want robust and consistent enforcement.

“SLO High, Morro Bay High students, they have to put their phones in a pouch on the wall or the back of the door when they walk in class, but during lunch, they get their phones,” Chad Worth, a San Luis Coastal Unified district parent, said. “I think there are a number of parents that were like, ‘Wait a minute, I thought we passed a bill to get rid of this?’”

Worth has a second grader and a transitional kindergarten student in the district. He also created

the local chapter of Schools Beyond Screens, which describes itself as a national coalition of parents and educators advocating for evidence-based guidelines around technology in classrooms.

Worth believes California was forwardthinking when the Phone-Free School Act was first discussed and passed in Sacramento, but he said it now has some of the weaker state laws around cellphone use in schools.

“It’s not a true bell-to-bell ban, or away-for-theday ban as a lot of states across the country are implementing starting this next academic year,” he said.

While the Phone-Free Schools Act makes limiting cellphone use compulsory, there’s still flexibility on what those rules could look like.

In May, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed legislation that expanded the state’s elementary and middle school cellphone ban to include high schools.

In April, Maine Gov. Janet Mills reinforced a law that required all state school boards to adopt policies prohibiting cellphone use in K-12 schools from the starting bell to the dismissal bell.

That same month, Virginia Gov. Abigail

Spanberger signed a bill to expand the existing campus cellphone ban to prohibit use from bell to bell.

On the Central Coast, the rules vary among school districts.

At San Luis Coastal, cellphones and wearable devices like smartwatches are supposed to be turned off and kept away during the school day for elementary and middle school students.

High schoolers’ phones, earbuds, and headphones must be put away before entering classrooms, which are equipped with cellphone pouches. Students are expected to stash their phones in those pouches every period.

Assistant Superintendent Lisa Yamashita told New Times that students should keep their phones in the pouches if they need to leave the class to use the bathroom.

“Our cellphone policy hasn’t changed since the law passed, as our procedures already meet the legal requirements,” she said. “Some students with disabilities or health concerns may have special accommodations.”

These regulations are similar for SLO High and Pacific Beach High.

At Morro Bay High School, students may use cellphones and other devices if they don’t disrupt lessons and activities and aren’t used for cheating on assignments and tests—it’s up to the individual teacher to decide what’s allowed in the classroom.

In the Lucia Mar Unified School District, high schoolers can only use electronics during lunch and other breaks.

Smartphones and other mobile communication devices can’t be used on campuses in the Santa Maria-Bonita School District.

But the rule changes if a teacher or administrator grants permission, a licensed physician or surgeon determines technology use is necessary for a student’s well-being, an individualized education program requires it, or in response to a perceived threat.

In the Lompoc Unified School District, elementary and middle school students must switch off and store their devices out of sight in backpacks for the entire school day—including lunch and passing periods.

Lompoc High School students may use their phones only during designated lunch and passing periods. However, Assistant Superintendent Brian Jaramillo said teachers have the option of allowing students to use their phones and other technology if the lesson requires it.

“It may look like, in a classroom where students are doing research projects and they’re able to use their Chromebooks and their phones,” Jaramillo said. “Kind of cross reference between the two as they’re doing research.”

The Lompoc school district provides Chromebooks to all students, but high schoolers get to take them home and bring them back.

Concerns about technology and student safety made San Luis Coastal parent Vanessa Salas advocate for a return to pencil and paper.

The idea came after she attended school district meetings about internet safety hosted by the SLO County Sheriff’s Office.

“They mentioned different things like sexting, sextortion, being approached in middle school and high school through social media and [being offered] drugs,” Salas said.

Salas and fellow parents Jenn Smith and Katie Pozzi urged San Luis Coastal to limit screen time for students. They formed a group called Purposeful Learning SLO and launched a petition in July that racked up 478 signatures as of Aug. 3.

“If you have families that are trying to control their screen time at home, it’s almost like the family no longer has the agency on how to control things for their kids because the district is bypassing parents and providing devices to the kids,” Salas said. “Even if they were to type an essay on Google Docs and submit it to teachers, the teachers can print that essay and … circle errors and write comments … and the student has a moment of real feedback.” /

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PROUD TO HELP: Ghais “Gus” Sweed (second from right) owns the Old Orcutt Kwik Stop, which encompasses an auto repair shop, a gas station, and a small market on Clark Avenue.

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Monday – Saturday

Service with a smile Old Orcutt Kwik Stop takes care of gas, convenience needs, and auto repair

BY MADISON WHITE

Much of Sweed’s work is maintaining inventory of supplies like oil, filters, batteries, lients drive all the way from Ventura to and other parts. He taught himself a lot about one trusted auto repair shop in Orcutt mechanics after he bought the Kwik Stop. The with bright red and yellow signage flagging owner credits his crew of repairmen with keeping the corner lot. The reason is superb customer the shop’s trusted reputation in the community. service.

“I’m a pharmacist,” Sweed explained. “I got Old Orcutt Kwik Stop owner Ghais “Gus” my license from Germany, so when I moved Sweed is always working. Sometimes 18 to 20 here, everything was new to me. … I didn’t know hours a day. He bought the well-established anything about cars. Now, thank God, I know business last September, coming up on one full year of ownership. The Kwik Stop includes a car a lot.”

The owner also made some changes to the repair shop, mini mart, and gas station. convenience store to offer a better experience “We put our heart in our business,” Sweed for people when they drop their vehicles off to told the Sun. be serviced or park to fill After managing gas up their gas tanks. Sweed stations and liquor stores in Red and yellow employs five people at the Southern California, Sweed Find Old Orcutt Kwik Stop at 100 E. Clark store for a total of 10 across moved to Santa Maria to Ave. in Orcutt. To inquire about services and the entire enterprise. take over in Orcutt. He said schedule an appointment, call (805) 749-8920 Half of the old the Old Orcutt location or visit oldorcuttkwikstop.com. The shop is convenience store used to is the northernmost open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. during weekdays be a garage, but now it’s branch of Kwik Stop but and from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. an expanded mini mart the company is looking to with drinks, snacks, and expand more. knickknacks. Where garage doors used to open “I like Orcutt people. They are so friendly,” to the outside, coolers with seltzers and Gatorade Sweed said. “They support me a lot, and I feel I now stand next to endcaps of wine bottles. am one of them now. … This is a perfect place “We changed the floor, all the ceiling,” Sweed for me.”

Customers remain at the core of his business said. “We got the beer license. We got the wine license. Soon I will make it bigger, and hopefully philosophy. If people are driving hours to patronize his shop, Sweed is going to make sure I will open a restaurant.”

One of his future ambitions, after squaring the trip is worth their time and money.

On the auto repair end of the business, he said permits away with the county, is to open a Mediterranean joint upstairs. It’s all in the they take care of everything except alignment.

MUSIC customers happy.

But they’ll soon be able to offer that service, too. name of making “If any customer has a problem,” Sweed said, From windows and lighting to stereos and “just tell them to ask for Gus.” cameras, Sweed’s five employees at the body FLAVOR/EATS shop can tackle any problem for a cheaper price Highlights than a dealership, he said. Kwik Stop also fixes heating and air conditioning, brakes, exhausts, • A cooking class for older adults is scheduled INFO and transmissions. Pop in for an oil change or at the Guadalupe Senior Center on Aug. 12 smog check, too. from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. The center is located at The owner only has one rule for his trusted 4545 10th CALENDAR St. in Guadalupe. Call (805) 356-6155 team of professionals. for more information.

“The customer is always right. That’s it,” • The Lompoc Queer Alliance announced OPINION Sweed said. its list of August events on social media. Events Sweed keeps his appointments with pencil include a craft circle on Aug. 12, a picnic and and paper, balancing a daily schedule of around market on Aug. 15, a group walk on Aug. 19, and a NEWS on Aug. 25. For more information 30 cars. The busiest he remembers is managing general meeting 60 cars one day in January. about activity times and locations, The first appointment visit @lompocqueeralliance on STROKES starts at 7:40 a.m. and the Instagram. m Send business and last one is taken at 4:40 nonprofit information to p.m. so that the shop can ARTSReach Staff Writer Madison spotlight@santamariasun.com. accommodate a vehicle White at mwhite@ every 20 minutes. santamariasun.com.

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El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria Educación Especial - Búsqueda de Estudiantes El Distrito Unificado de Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria (SMJUHSD) busca identificar, localizar y evaluar a los estudiantes en edad de escuela preparatoria sospechosos de tener una discapacidad que puede ser elegible para servicios de educación especial diseñados para satisfacer sus necesidades educativas sin costo alguno para las familias. Esto incluye a los estudiantes que son altamente móviles, migrantes, sin hogar, estudiantes que están bajo la tutela del estado, y los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas privadas ubicadas dentro los limites de SMJUHSD. Si sospecha que su hijo tiene una discapacidad, comuníquese con el departamento de educación especial de la escuela u oficina de Educación Especial del distrito SMJUHSD. Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)

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www.santamariasun.com • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • Sun • 7

Opinion ONLINE POLL

Should judges have more discretion when deciding on mental health diversion?

60% Yes, but the recent changes make the law muddy.

40% No. The “super strike” standard for no diversion was clear.

0% Criminals are criminals— give them all jail time.

0% Yes. Their hands were tied under previous laws.

COMMENTARY

➤ Canary [9]

Calling 911

officials, in this case the City Council. The council must carefully balance the needs and expectations of its citizenry when deciding how much money to allocate to all of the services it Lompoc Fire Department provides.”

Implementing the Fire Department Master has sounded the alarm Plan to bring the level of service up to nationally for more than a decade recognized standards has been spotty.

Fire Department response standards are and no one answered reflected in the 2030 General Plan, Public

BY RON FINK Services Element, Policy 3.1, which states, “The first Fire Department response units capable eferred maintenance” is a term used to of initiating effective incident intervention define things that need to be done but shall arrive at a priority emergency within six will have to wait until we can afford it. minutes 20 seconds from receipt of the call at In government it usually means that MUSIC the dispatch center, 90 percent of the time.” they have the funds to fix the roof, but the An analysis using GIS technology conducted politicians guiding the use of tax money would FLAVOR/EATS by the Fire Department rather defer fixing the roof and use those funds clearly indicated that it can’t for their favorite social equity project. Then meet this standard in the when the roof collapses, it’s an emergency and northern andINFO western areas they can ask taxpayers for a new building. primarily due to the location In Lompoc, it is the Fire Department that’s of Fire StationCALENDAR 52. This suffering because of deferred maintenance. station was But what do you do when constructed the issue staring you in the in 1988 as a face is people and not brickOPINION “temporary” and-mortar? In Lompoc’s case Send us your location. it’s both! views and opinion to NEWS The City Each time politicians letters@santamariasun.com.

Council employ the “deferred has avoided maintenance” philosophy STROKES confronting this issue and when dealing with public safety issues, it rejected a relocation plan creates a serious concern to the taxpaying several years ago. public who rely on prompt and professional ARTS Shortly after the 2013 response when a fire or medical emergency presentation, city voters occurs. approved a “public safety In 2007, the city engaged the services of Robert Olson and Associates to prepare a study tax” in part to address Fire Department issues.

A shortsighted City Council then diverted titled “Fire Protection Services for the City of the new funding to help reduce the impact of Lompoc: Planning for the Future.” They found CalPERS retirement fund contributions. that “for a variety of reasons, department In another misguided decision, the council facilities are inadequate in their current state has encouraged and approved additional and configuration.” development outside the practical ability of the On Nov. 12, 2013, the Lompoc City Council Fire Department to respond within nationally adopted the Fire Department Master Plan, established timelines and conflict with the which clearly stated that “levels of service General Plan policy. And they continue to and resource allocation decisions are the defer addressing this issue in any tangible way, responsibility of the community’s elected

D

“ 5 Votes

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Northern Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly 801 S Broadway Suite 3 Santa Maria, CA 93454 EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING | 805-347-1968 E-MAIL | mail@santamariasun.com WEB | www.santamariasun.com FOUNDER | Steve Moss 1948-2005 EDITORIAL EDITOR | Camillia Lanham ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Andrea Rooks SENIOR STAFF WRITER | Caleb Wiseblood STAFF WRITER | Madison White CALENDAR EDITOR | Angelena Stevens STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER | Pieter Saayman ART DIRECTOR | Alex Zuniga EDITORIAL DESIGNERS | Leni Litonjua, Taylor Saugstad CONTRIBUTORS | Glen Starkey, Anna Starkey, Ross Mayfield ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE | Kimberly Rosa ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES | Katy Gray, Tyler Dunavan, Kelly Wollschlager PRODUCTION ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER | Mary Grace Flaus GRAPHIC DESIGNERS | Ellen Fukumoto, John Nygaard Business Cindy Rucker MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR | Malia Jandra CIRCULATION | Jim Chaney, Michael Ferrell, Margo Baldives, Simon Lopez, Joe Brice PUBLISHERS | Bob Rucker, Alex Zuniga OFFICE MANAGER | Sarah Visconte SUBMITTING LETTERS WRITE | Mail your letter to Sun Letters, 801 S Broadway Suite 3, Santa Maria, CA 93454.

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seemingly hoping that “nothing will happen.”

On May 5 of this year, Interim Fire Chief Kevin Shay reported that the three fire units and nine crew on-duty members responded to more than 5,300 calls for service each year; that’s an average of 14 calls per day. As the city grows, this number increases each year, while staffing remains the same.

A high turnover of experienced firefighters leads to losing tenured employees, lowers employee satisfaction, and leads to a feeling that the City Council doesn’t care about the employees.

This continued cycle leads to burnout and a lack of appreciation, further lowering morale and increasing turnover, and the cycle continues.

The city of Lompoc has what shrill, sign-waving activists would call a “crisis situation” concerning fire protection in our city, but since it’s not a popular social justice cause, the City Council may never address it.

When we call 911, the Fire Department always comes to help. The Fire Department has been “calling 911” for more than a decade with their pleas for help, and no one has answered the phone. m

The city of Lompoc has what shrill, signwaving activists would call a ‘crisis situation’ concerning fire protection in our city, but since it’s not a popular social justice cause, the City Council may never address it.

MAYFIELD

Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc.

Send a letter for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.

LETTER

Nuclear should not be a part of the Central Coast’s energy future There are many concerns about adding another 15 to 20 years to an aging Diablo Canyon nuclear plant operation, which uses radiation to boil seawater to make electricity.

Sounds outdated and dangerous.

Last year, Trump signed an order to allow greater radiation exposure to the public ignoring its disproportionate effect on children and women.

Our energy future is extremely important, but nuclear should not be part of it, especially since Diablo sits among seismic faults, some of which are active.

Every additional year, the plant generates more high-level radioactive waste. The United States still has no permanent repository for commercial spent nuclear fuel, so it remains on-site indefinitely.

If and when that repository is built and approved, the waste has to be transported, often passing through towns and cities.

There’s nuclear waste near every plant in the U.S. Possible targets.

What’s keeping clean-energy producers down? It’s cheaper by far and cleaner, safer.

Could it be most decision-makers have bought the AI plan.

Marty Brown Atascadero

8 • Sun • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Opinion

Royally in the red

G

uadalupe, Guadalupe, Guadalupe, what are we going to do with you?

After fits and starts, false starts, and no starts, the city’s calling it quits on the Royal Theater restoration project. I think anyone’s who’s been following my sarcastic commentary on the matter probably knows that should have happened a long time ago—maybe when the city mulled forcing through a ballot initiative to pay for the project’s funding gap or the Guadalupe’s multiple attempts at starting a capital campaign or when the city almost lost its grant funding due to deadlines not met or when the cost of construction overshot projections by millions of dollars.

Or, or, or: Take your pick.

City Administrator David Trujillo told the City Council on July 26 that if the city pushed forward with the project—which has already been under “construction” for almost nine months—it would be $2.6 million in the hole by the end of the fiscal year (next June).

It sounds like previous City Administrator Todd Bodem left Trujillo with a mess.

“If I were to tell you to continue construction, I would be doing a disservice to this community,” Trujillo told the council. “Until we have $13 million in the general fund, we cannot start this project. That’s where this project went wrong.”

The project went wrong in so many places, but financial ineptitude has plagued the theater restoration efforts since Day 1. Apparently, with a new staff in place, the city is starting to realize how inadequate its budget predictions have been over the last several years. Staff is “still looking

into” where things went so wrong via audits going back to 2022.

Former Mayor Frances Romero told the council that it had “competent professional staff” for the first time in 12 years! Past staff, “apparently didn’t have any expertise at being able to balance a checkbook.” Ouch!

Councilmember Whitney Furness, ever the voice of admonishment and astonishment, asked that the council have a “lessons learned” discussion—aka, a come-to-Jesus meeting—“so we don’t run into this again.”

Where was Royal Theater Project Manager Tom Brandenberry during this discussion? Missing in action.

Unfortunate.

I don’t know that Solvang’s recent decision not to allow a nightclub in its midst was unfortunate, but it does seem like a decision that an, ahem, older crowd would make.

I’m not sure the wannabe nightclub proprietor did himself any favors with his comments before the Planning Commission on Aug. 3: “People like going out late, [for] dancing and drinking,” Oligarlo Alvarez said. “By midnight, they’ll want to keep drinking and drinking.”

He’s not wrong, but that’s not exactly a selling point, you know?

A favorite Solvang developer (note the sarcasm) said if the city approved the project, he was gone.

“This town shuts down at 9 p.m., and as much as people like to complain about it, they actually love it,” Ed St. George, who sued the city recently, said. “I like new businesses. You know that. I like to see change. … This is not the right project.

A bar is just too much change. Solvang can’t be hip! The youth would be out and about, and we wouldn’t want that, would we? m The Canary would dance the night away in Solvang.

Send songs to canary@santamariasun.com.

WHAT GOES IN THE GREEN CART? In Santa Maria

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RTA Routes Include 11 Schools!

• • Cuesta CuestaCollege: College:SLO SLO&& NorthCounty County--fare farefree freefor for North studentswith withID! ID! students • Cal Poly • Cal Poly • Paso Robles High School* • Paso Robles High School* • Lewis Flamson Jr. High* • Lewis Flamson Jr. High*

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Liberty High High School School Liberty Allan Hancock Hancock College College Allan Arroyo Arroyo Grande GrandeHigh HighSchool* School* Paulding Middle School Paulding Middle School Nipomo NipomoHigh HighSchool School New Tech High New Tech High School School

See if RTA can work for you and check out the bus schedules on our website. K-12 pay half price on RTA (does not apply to South County Transit) * These schools also have custom tripper service to meet bell times

For your personal travel plan visit our How to Ride webpage and complete the online form: https://www.slorta.org/ride-guide/how-to-ride/

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Hot Stuff

10-DAY CALENDAR: AUGUST 6 - AUGUST 16, 2026

WINE AND FIRE KICKOFF

To kick off the 25th anniversary of Wine & Fire, the public is invited to Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Barn in Lompoc for the festival’s opening night celebration on Thursday, Aug. 13, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Celebrate Sta. Rita Hills with local wine, wood-fired pizza, artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, live music, and community. There will be chances to chat with winery owners and winemakers during the intimate walk-around tasting experience.

Tickets are $120 and can be purchased at staritahills.com.

—Angie Stevens

PHOTO COURTESY OF STA. RITA HILLS WINE ALLIANCE

ARTS SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

“ALONG THE HIGH EMBANKMENTS” AT PRESQU’ILE Los Angeles Nomadic Division and Presqu’ile present Cole Sternberg’s work along the high embankments, a free, self-guided installation. Saturdays, Sundays, 12-5 p.m. through Sept. 20 Free. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presquile Dr, Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

ALL AMERICA CITY QUILT GUILD Join at our monthly meeting to share your passion for quilting, learn about it, or be inspired! In addition to meetings, we offer programs. Second Wednesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. acquiltguild.org. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 4380 Orcutt Rd., Orcutt.

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. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.

DANCE AND MUSIC CLASSES KleinDance Arts offers various dance and music classes for a wide variety of ages!

Visit the link for info! Mondays-Saturdays, 4-8 p.m. (805) 268-2530. kleindancearts. com. KleinDance Arts, 1954 S Broadway, Suite J, Santa Maria.

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

“POST-WILD: NATURE IN THE 21ST CENTURY” The Santa Barbara County

Office of Arts and Culture is proud to present Post-Wild: Nature in the 21st Century, a juried exhibition featuring artworks by 34 emerging and established Santa Barbara County artists. Co-curated

by Allan Hancock College Professor of Fine Arts Laura-Susan Thomas and the Office of Arts and Culture, the exhibition highlights artists working across painting, ceramics, photography, digital media, and mixed media. Mondays-Fridays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. through Nov. 1 Free. sbac.ca.gov/ post-wild-nature-in-the-21st-century/.

Betteravia Art Gallery, 511 Lakeside Pkwy, 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 VALLE Y

BEEHIVE: THE ‘60S MUSICAL Beehive is a toe-tapping, heartwarming celebration of the songs, style, and sisterhood of the ‘60s—guaranteed to have you singing and dancing along. Wednesdays-Sundays, 8-9:55 p.m. through Aug. 23 $25. (805) 922-8313. pcpa.org. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

INDAH GALLERY ART EXHIBITION AT ROBLAR WINERY: MAX GLEASON “BRIDGING WORLDS” FUNDRAISER FOR ARTIST ADVOCACY FOUNDATION “As a visual artist I seek to connect our everyday reality with the ethereal and ineffable mysteries of life.” - Max Gleason Fridays-Sundays, 12-5 p.m. through Aug. 9 Free. indahgallery.org/current. Indah Gallery, 2190 N. Refugio Road, Santa Ynez, (877) 327-2656.

PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT KOEHLER WINERY Join for a day of wine tasting and guided step-by-step instruction in painting the beautiful view before you at Koehler Winery. Wine and supplies will be included. Aug. 15, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $89. (805) 325-8092.

Artspotonwheels.com. Koehler Winery, 5360 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos, California, 93441, United States, Los Olivos.

“WHEN THE EARTH WHISPERS BACK: NATURE’S HOPE” Woman Painters West, an organization of juried professional woman artists (100 + years old) were invited to exhibit at this museum creating paintings that answered their theme. See 48 paintings juried from 100 entries on view at the museum. Through Sept. 16 Canatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

or cash only. Aug. 8, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free.

(805) 481-4131. Grover Beach Community Library, 240 N 9th St., Grover Beach.

NORTH COUNTY CAMERA CLUB: REGULAR MEETING Zoom meeting for The North County Camera Club, where photographers of all levels can participate, share photos, exchange information, and learn from each other. Second Tuesday of every month, 7-9 p.m. Free. facebook.com/ groups/PRAAphotoguild. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

WALT WHITMAN GAY MEN’S BOOK CLUB 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, Arroyo Grande.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

“ONE VISIT” POTTERY CLASS This is a great class if you are looking to try out pottery! Throw on the wheel or paint pre-made pottery. Get a student discount with a valid school ID. Fridays, 6-7:30 p.m. $75. (805) 896-6197. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design.

Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com.

Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

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. (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

CREATING WITH NATURE: AN IMMERSIVE CYANOTYPE AND MIXED MEDIA FOURDAY WORKSHOP AT WILLOW POND SLO Expand your artistic boundaries in this immersive four-day retreat guided

by Boulder-based artist Kristen Abbott.

Practice the cyanotype process in this dynamic, mixed-media adventure. Aug. 14, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Aug. 15, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Aug. 16, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $1400. willowpondslo.com. Willow Pond SLO, 1250 Judith Lane, Arroyo Grande, (805) 550-6399.

LIBRARY BOOK SALE Grab some fiction, cookbooks, coffee table, kids, or nonfiction. The bag sale starts at 1 p.m. Venmo

New Times and the Sun now share their community listings for a complete Central Coast calendar running from SLO County through northern Santa Barbara County. Submit events online by logging in with your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account at newtimesslo.com. You may also email calendar@newtimesslo.com.

Deadline is one week before the issue date on Thursdays. Submissions are subject to editing and approval.

Contact Calendar Editor Angelena Stevens directly at astevens@newtimesslo.com.

10 • Sun • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

SAN LUIS OBISPO

INDEX Arts...................................... 10 Culture & Lifestyle ........... 11 Food & Drink ......................12 Music ...................................15

ART AFTER DARK AT THE MONDAY CLUB See seven featured Monday Club artists, and enjoy some wine, music and lots of free parking! Registration is free and appreciated for planning. Aug. 7, 5-8 p.m. Free. themondayclubslo.org/ event-6732863. The Monday Club San Luis Obispo, 1815 Monterey St,, San Luis Obispo, (805) 242-1076.

BEGINNING JUNK JOURNALING WORKSHOP WITH JUNKGIRLS Part scrapbooking, part journaling, and a whole lot of fun, this workshop is sure to get you hooked on this popular craft, Junk Journaling. Aug. 8, 2-5:30 p.m. $135. (805) 439-0123. JunkGirls, 870 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo, junkgirls.com.

BEGINNING WHEEL: DINNERWARE SERIES Enjoy a themed beginning wheel course. Hop on wheel to create a set of cups, plates bowls and more. Learn to glaze. Clay and firing is included. Fridays, 6-7:30 p.m. $275. anamcre.com/. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

CALL FOR ARTISTS SLO Gallery is now organizing small group exhibits for our central viewing area. One of the displayed artists will be a co-op member. The others can be local or visiting artists.

Drop by the SLO Gallery to sign up and see which of our artists on display you may be interested in doing a group show with. Fridays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, SLOgallery.com.

CENTRAL COAST COMEDY THEATER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW An ongoing improv comedy program featuring the CCCT’s Ensemble. Grab some food at the public market’s wonderful eateries and enjoy the show upstairs. Second Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. $10. centralcoastcomedytheater.com/shows/.

SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo.

CENTRAL COAST WOODTURNERS Turners of all levels welcome! Bring work to share if you like. Bowls, boxes, hollow forms, segmented vessels, multi-axis: whatever you can do on lathes! Second Saturday of every month, 9-11 a.m. Free.

Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo.

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

COLORS OF CONSERVATION ART SHOW Come enjoy original landscape paintings of conserved SLO County lands, artist demonstrations, wine, and light bites. A portion of the art sales will benefit The Land Conservancy. Aug. 7, 5-8 p.m. and Aug. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

(805) 544-9096. lcslo.org.

The Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY CLASS Join our couple’s pottery class to learn handbuilding and wheel throwing with an instructor. Glazing and firing are included.

Pick up pieces in three weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $160. anamcre.com/. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

DECORATIVE PLATTER: ANIMALS! Sculpt and glaze your own pet-themed decorative clay platter in this threesession course. Open to all ages and experience levels, bring pet photos and create! Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $85. app.acuityscheduling.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.

FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free.

(805) 543-8562. sloma.org/events/firstfridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

ARTS continued page 11

Hot Stuff

AUGUST 6 - AUGUST 16, 2026 PHOTO COURTESY OF MY805TIX

ARTS from page 10 INTRO TO ASSEMBLAGE WITH BOMBYX THOMAS Learn basic ideas surrounding composition, color, texture, and how to repurpose various objects and waste found around the home. Aug. 11, 1-5 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

INTRODUCTION TO MONOPRINTING WORKSHOP WITH JUNKGIRLS Learn monoprinting using Gelli plates, acrylic paint, botanicals, stencils, and found objects to create unique textured prints for collage, journaling, cards, or framing.

Aug. 15 $95. (805) 439-0123. JunkGirls, 870 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo, junkgirls.com.

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.

MARCIE BEGLEITER AT SLOMA See Marcie Begleiter’s solo exhibition “Chimera: the Future of Nature” at SLOMA. Animation, photography and a large nature diorama.

Mondays, Thursdays-Sundays. Free. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo, (310) 920-1656, sloma.org/exhibition/marcie-begleiter/.

MOBILE CLAY CLASSES Offering handbuilding, throwing, and ceramic decorative arts. All ages and abilities are welcome. Call for more info. ongoing (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/ book-online. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.

NOT FOR SALE: BARTER EXCHANGE This is your chance to negotiate a sweet trade for art by a collection of established California artists! Intrigued? Come find out! Mondays, Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through Aug. 28. Free. (805) 546-3201. cuesta.edu/about/calendars/index.html.

Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

OIL PAINTING: IMPRESSIONISTIC REALISM WITH FRANK EBER Learn how to paint lively, expressive paintings with alla prima style techniques. This class is great for the intermediate or advanced.

Inquire via email. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Aug. 11 $295. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

C

compositions that captivate and unsettle.

Aug. 6-Sept. 14, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 7722504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

CARBON CITY LIGHTS CONCERT

Carbon City Lights will perform at the Stockyard’s Summer and Fall Concert Series in Old Town Orcutt on Saturday, Aug. 15, from 1 to 4 p.m. Hear the San Luis Obispo-based alternative rock band’s folk, rock, and groovy country twang while enjoying some drinks. The show is free, and more information can be found at my805tix.com.

—A.S. PAINT PRE-MADE POTTERY Paint premade pottery at our studio. Choose a piece, get creative, and make family memories. Reserve your spot online today and enjoy some fun for all ages! MondaysSaturdays anamcre.com/. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASSES Join our family pottery class! Learn to throw on the wheel or build by hand. All ages are welcome. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $45. anamcre.com/. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO NIGHTWRITERS: A COMMUNITY OF WRITERS SLO NightWriters supports local writers with monthly presentations, critique groups, contests, and other events. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. slonightwriters.org.

United Church of Christ (Congregational) of San Luis Obispo, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo.

UBU’S OTHER SHOE STAGED READING: THE DESIGNATED MOURNER In a

S LO

ING AUG

. 1

near-future authoritarian state, three intellectuals grapple with their changing world and their own values, navigating themes of art, politics, and survival. Aug. 7, 7-9 p.m. and Aug. 8, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. $18-23.

(805) 786-2440. slorep.org. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

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“PEACEFUL HARBOR” : A GROUP PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW Nine gallery photographers explore Central Coast waterscapes and sunsets in “Peaceful Harbor,” a group show capturing the ocean’s calm and the wildlife along its shoreline. Through Aug. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (808) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. AUGUST OPENING RECEPTION IN GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE Come meet artists Virginia Mack, Alia Warden and the featured photographers of “Peaceful Harbor” at the artist’s reception.

Aug. 8, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (808) 772-1068.

galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. THE BUTLER DID IT Enjoy this comedy whodunit by Tim Kelly, directed by Samvel Gottlieb. Mystery writers are invited to impersonate their fictional detectives at an event...and then a murder happens.

Aug. 7, 7 p.m., Aug. 8, 7 p.m. and Aug. 9, 3 p.m. $30. (805) 776-3287. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay, bytheseaproductions.org.

FEATURED ARTIST VIRGINIA MACK Watercolorist Virginia Mack paints the Central Coast’s shifting light and color, drawing on decades of kayaking the bay and teaching studio art in the region.

Through Aug. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

(808) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. IN THE SHADOW EXHIBIT Artists have woven together the visual and emotional richness of shadow, from intimate and introspective studies to bold, dramatic

THE GREAT AMERICAN

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

CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 6:30 p.m. Free.

(805) 934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria.

FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt. org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.

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

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

GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. (805) 343-2455. dunescenter. org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

ORCUTT MINERAL SOCIETY Second Tuesday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750.

SANTA MARIA TOASTMASTERS Develop your public speaking skills at this club meeting. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. (805) 570-0620. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.

SMKA 2026 KART RACING SEASON Participate in this local kart racing series, featuring kid karts, LO206, and two-cycle classes, delivering competitive sprint racing, driver development, and familyfriendly events for all skill levels. Aug. 9, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $10. smka.org. Santa Maria Karting Association, 3951 S Blosser Rd, Santa Maria, (805) 464-6114.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

California Myotis bats. Fridays, Saturdays. through Sept. 6 Free. (805) 693-0691. clnaturecenter.org. Neal Taylor Nature Center, 2265 Highway 154, Santa Barbara.

SUMMER BOOK SALE: NEW HOURS Head to our quarterly super-sized book sale! Look through used books, CDs, DVDs, and puzzles. The.re is also a special members only on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Aug. 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Aug. 16, 12-3 p.m. sites.google.com/view/ fobl-buellton/events. Buellton Library, 202 Dairyland Rd, Buellton, (805) 688-3115.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

AFTERNOON BINGO Bingo with potluck.

Parking in rear. Buy one of everything for $20. Guests can participate without bringing food. Look forward to a fun afternoon. Second Tuesday of every month, 12-4 p.m. All games are $1 each.

(805) 736-6669. Valley of Flowers HalfCentury Club, 341 No. N St., Lompoc.

LOMPOC ART WALK Lompoc transforms into a celebration and showcase of local artists during this monthly event, which features live music, art, exciting exhibitions, performances, and a variety of unique vendors. First Thursday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Old Town Lompoc, H and I St., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

2ND FREE LEGAL CLINIC REGISTRATION (LEGAL TEAM: FREDERICK & TINDULA LAW FIRM) Part of our Health Wellness and You Program, seniors 50 years and older can call the number provided after 2 p.m., leave a message for Dave, and mention the free legal clinic. Mondays-Fridays, 2-7 p.m. through Sept. 28 Free. (805) 929-1615. nipomoseniorcenter.org/. Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St., Nipomo.

50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION SOUTH COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY Come celebrate with us, music by Crossroads, along with historical displays, and guest Speakers. Food, drinks, wine and beer will be for sale. Aug. 15, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 489-8282. southcountyhistory.org. Heritage Square Park, 201 Nelson St., Arroyo Grande.

BAKE SALE FUNDRAISER WITH NIPOMO’S BEST BAKERS! Join us for a delightful bake sale, we are amazing bakers! The Community Wide Yard Sale is also happening at our Center. Aug. 8, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 929-1615. nipomoseniorcenter.org/. Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St., Nipomo.

END-OF-SUMMER FAMILY DAY Join CalNAM for a free-admission, end-ofsummer Family Day. Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Free. calnatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

GOING BATTY AT THE NATURE CENTER Going Batty consists of weekly talks CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 12 and observation of hundreds of native

UP NEXT!

AUG. 7 - SEP 19 Professional Live Theatre!

Fun for ages 5 to 105!

1863 HWY 1 ~ OCEANO, CA 3 miles south of Pismo Beach

www.AmericanMelodrama.com (805) 489-2499

SHOW TIMES

Final 4 Shows

Wednesday - Friday: 7pm Saturday: 2pm to 7pm Sunday: 6pm CLOSED: Monday & Tuesday

In 1938 at station WBFR, a live radio broadcast faces chaos with picketing musicians, a dwindling crew, and the rumored death of the leading lady, whose body has disappeared. The remaining staff must continue with various programs while solving the mystery all while staying on the air!!

www.santamariasun.com • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • Sun • 11

Hot Stuff CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 11 BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. Starts at $70. (805) 835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.

BIG DITCH MARKET Enjoy fantastic homemade items from local vendors, amazing food, and live music! First Friday of every month, 4-8 p.m. through Oct. 2 Free. (714) 390-9142. arroyogrande.org. Historic Village of Arroyo Grande, Branch and Short St., Arroyo Grande.

EPIC DJ TRIVIA Don’t miss DJ Trivia.

It’s free to play, and prizes for the top three teams will be awarded. Bring your family and friends! Thursdays, 6-8 p.m.

Free. Grover Station Grill, 170 W Grand Ave #101, Grover Beach, (805) 489-3030, EpicDJTrivia.com.

FELINE NETWORK ADOPT-A-PET EVENT Feline Network Adopt-A-Pet Event!

All kittens are fixed, vaccinated, and microchipped. Aug. 8, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $125. (805) 549-9228. felinenetwork.org.

Lemos Feed & Pet Supply, 120 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande.

FIVE CITIES REPAIR CAFE Our volunteers repair bikes, clothing, small appliances, phones, computers/devices, watches, outdoor gear, and apparel. Bring your garden abundance to share with neighbors. Aug. 8, 1-4:30 p.m. Free. (650) 367-6780. repaircafe5cities.org. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.

FREE DANCE FITNESS CLASS AT THE CLIFFS HOTEL & SPA This incredible dance fitness workout is led by Christiana Marie and hosted by the iconic Cliffs Hotel & Spa on their outdoor lawn space. Free for hotel guests and locals. Aug. 15, 11 a.m.

Free. my805tix.com. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach, (805) 773-5000.

AUGUST 6 - AUGUST 16, 2026 FUSION CHAIR YOGA This gentle class combines supportive seating, calming breath work, and serene meditative music to help reduce stress. Plan accordingly, arrive by 12:45 p.m. for check-in. Second Tuesday of every month, 1-2 p.m. Free.

(805) 929-1615. nipomoseniorcenter.org/.

Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St., Nipomo.

HEALING HEROES FOURTH ANNUAL GALA Join us for an evening of fine dining, auctions, and entertainment supporting local Veterans and horses through programs that foster healing, connection, and second chances. Aug. 8, 3:30-10 p.m. $150. (805) 868-7634. heroeshorses.org/events/. Thousand Hills Ranch, 550 Thousand Hills Rd., Pismo Beach.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52 Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological.

Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m.

(805) 547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index.php/ chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.

SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details.

Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.

(805) 904-6615. 819 Tempus Circle, 819 Tempus Circle, Arroyo Grande.

STEAM FOR GIRLS SUMMER DAY CAMP Join the 12th annual STEAM for Girls camp, for girls ages 8 to 12, with swimming science, tech, engineering, art, and fun!

Aug. 6, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and Aug. 7, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $175. (805) 710-7681. steamtrunk.org. Camp Arroyo Grande, 250 Wesley St., Arroyo Grande.

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.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JUNK GIRLS

MONOPRINT WITH MELISSA

Melissa at Junk Girls in San Luis Obispo is hosting an Intro to Monoprinting Workshop ($95) on Saturday, Aug. 15, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Creatives can use an array of gel printing plates, acrylic paint, botanicals, stencils, and found objects to make textured prints for future collaging, journaling, or framing.

Participants should be 16 years old or older. Additional class details are available at junkgirls.com.

—A.S. SAN LUIS OBISPO

BUTTERFLY BALL: CCSPA’S 50TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY Mark this golden milestone with an unforgettable evening featuring live music, dance performances, exceptional food and drink, inspiring presentations, and a silent auction, all in support of the 10 California State Parks in San Luis Obispo County. Aug. 12, 4-8 p.m.

$110-$145. my805tix.com. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096.

FAMILY FREE DAY: SCALY SAFARI Admission to the garden is free for the day! Enjoy crafts, activities, and exploring the garden. Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free.

(805) 541-1400. slobg.org. SLO Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd, SLO.

SLO PUB TRIVIA MEETUP GROUP Trivia lovers wanted! Join for Study Hall trivia with Mr. Perez. All ages over 21 are welcome. RSVP with the link. Second Wednesday of every month Free. meetup.com/slo-bartrivia-group. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-2529.

SUMMER MADNESS BINGO Eight bingo game cards, pizza, one tropical beverage, and island fun! Bring a wrapped white elephant gift. Tickets are available online only. Aug. 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $25. (805) 7121224. themondayclubslo.org. The Monday Club San Luis Obispo, 1815 Monterey St,, San Luis Obispo.

TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery.

Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors.

Please RSVP. Second Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

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

UCCE MASTER GARDENERS OF SLO COUNTY: ADVICE TO GROW BY: BUSTING GARDEN MYTHS Head to this UCCE Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County workshop and plant sale. Aug. 15,

10 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 781-5939. ucanr.edu/sites/mgslo. UCCE Auditorium, 2156 Sierra Way, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

DISCOVERY SUNDAY: OCEAN CHEMISTRY Join sanctuary staff and volunteers for August’s Discovery Program to learn about ocean chemistry. Participate in acid-base experiments and create your own pH art piece! Aug. 9, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay, CA-1 and SLO San Simeon Road, San Simeon, (805) 927-2145.

NATURE RHYTHMS IN TOWN OF HARMONY: MINDFUL DRUMMING AND NATURE CONNECTION Nature Rhythms offers a unique experience to slow down and reconnect with oneself, with one another, and with nature—finding balance, joy, and inner peace as we attune to the grounding rhythms, the breath of the wind, and the sweet harmony inside and out.

Aug. 9, 2-3:30 p.m. $17.91-$28.62. my805tix.com. Harmony, 2177 Old Creamery Road, Harmony, (805) 927-1625.

ZONGO YACHTING CUP 2026 Join us for the biggest and best Zongo Yachting Cup yet! This year we are welcoming racers and cruisers making their way down to San Diego for the start of the Baja Haha.

Aug. 15, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. $50. my805tix.com.

Morro Bay Yacht Club, 541 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, (805) 772-3981.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

BAR TAKEOVER THURSDAYS Join us Thursdays to meet and chat with the winemaker of the flight we’re featuring that week. Thursdays, 4-7:30 p.m. $15-$30.

(805) 623-5129. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, stellerscellar.com.

FOOD & DRINK continued page 13

ALL TICKETS. ONE PLACE.

ON SALE NOW! 880 Chalk Hill Rd. Solvang, CA 93463 Open Tues.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.manzanitanursery.com

(805) 688-9692

30+ Manzanita species!

More than 500 Native plant species!

OTTER 501

FILM SCREENING Monday, Sept. 7 • 5:30pm Bay Theatre, Morro Bay Presented by:

Wholesale & Retail Nursery

GIRL SCOUTS OF CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST TICKETS AVAILABLE AT

MY805TIX.COM Does your organization sell tickets?

Get more exposure and sell more tickets with a local media partner. Call 805-546-8208 for more info.

12 • Sun • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Hot Stuff FOOD & DRINK from page 12 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 schedules. Fridays (805) 922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.

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

FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

GIAFUNNI’S COMEDY SATURDAY IN AUGUST Enjoy another rockin’ comedy show at your favorite Central Coast

AUGUST 6 - AUGUST 16, 2026 Comedy spot, Giavanni’s in Orcutt. Watch A-Plus touring comedians, delicious food, cozy seating, and welcoming people!

Aug. 15, 8 p.m. $17.91. my805tix.com.

Giavanni’s Pizza, 1108 E Clark Ave, Orcutt, (805) 934-8555.

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. presquilewine.com/club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

PURE ALOHA BRUNCH Aug. 16, 11 a.m.3 p.m. $17.91. my805tix.com. The Stockyard, 241 S Broadway St, Orcutt.

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

body care products, and locally grown organic eats. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 722-4338.

Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.

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.

SOURDOUGH AT GROWING GROUNDS FARM Urban Homesteadings, your local female veteran owned sourdough specialty shop is at GrowingGroundsFarm.org. Veterans and first responders get a free cookie!

Thursdays, 12-3 p.m. through June 30 Free.

(805) 865-6318. UrbanHomesteadings.com.

Growing Grounds Farm, 820 W. Foster Rd., Santa Maria.

TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m.

Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

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

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

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

SOURDOUGH AT BUELLTON FARMER’S MARKET Shop from Urban Homesteadings, the female, veteran-owned sourdough specialty shop, at Buellton Farmer’s Market.

Mondays, 3-7 p.m. Free. (805) 865-6318.

UrbanHomesteadings.com.

Avenue of Flags, Avenue of Flags, Buellton.

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.

STA. RITA HILLS WINE AND FIRE FESTIVAL 2026 Celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA at Wine & Fire. Aug. 13, 2-9:30 p.m. $125-$235.

(805) 570-0741. staritahills.com/wineand-fire. Sta. Rita Hills Wine Center, 2295 Purisima Rd, Lompoc, CA 93436, Lompoc.

WINE AND FIRE 2026: BARN PARTY KICK-OFF AT THE HISTORIC SANFORD & BENEDICT BARN Kick-off the 25th anniversary of Wine & Fire 2026 with an unforgettable opening night celebrating Sta. Rita Hills with wine, music, community, and elevated rustic hospitality. Aug. 13, 4-6:30 p.m. staritahills.com/wine-and-fire. Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, 5500 Santa Rosa Road, Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES New topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home.

FOOD & DRINK continued page 15

www.santamariasun.com • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • Sun • 13

2026 18th annual new times music ards

showcase

fri. 11/13/26

song entry period

7/17-8/24, 2026

14 • Sun • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Hot Stuff FOOD & DRINK from page 13 Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/email.

Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Join to expand your knowledge of the fermentation process and get started fermenting at home.

We alternate between demonstration and hands-on classes.

Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30-$50.

(805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/.

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

NATIONAL BEER DAY AT THE SECRET GARDEN August 7 is officially National Beer Day and The Secret Garden at Sycamore is throwing a free-entry public celebration in honor of the mighty brew! Aug. 7, 3-6 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, (805) 595-7302.

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

Free to play. (805) 295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com.

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

WELC OME TO T HE S O U N D T R A C K OF F REEDOM MITCHELL TENPENNY

SAN LUIS OBISPO

2ND ANNUAL FARM GAMES HOEDOWN Don’t miss the second annual Farm Games Hoedown. Aug. 15, 5-8:30 p.m. $95. (805) 769-8344. cityfarmslo.org/hoedown. Rancho Toro y Oso, 1990 Sycamore Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo.

MONDAY MEET UP Come by your local neighborhood park and enjoy great food presented by 805 Food Trucks. Bring the whole family to a different park each Monday! Aug. 10, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. slorecactivities.org. Meadow Park, 2251 Meadow St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO GRANGE PANCAKE BREAKFAST Join the SLO Grange Hall for a good old-fashioned pancake breakfast. Pancakes, bacon, eggs, juice, and coffee will be served, and proceeds will benefit local non-profits. Second Sunday of every month, 8-11 a.m. $10.

(805) 543-0639. slogrange.org. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

NIKKI GLASER SEPTEMBER 6 / $120+

AUGUST 14 / $55+

HOT VALLEY NIGHTS

RON WHITE

FREE CONCERT SERIES BEAR REDELL AUGUST 22

MUSIC

OCTOBER 2 / $69+

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

THE ALTONS & THEE SINSEERS LIVE Hear two of the most compelling voices in the modern soul revival, together on the Presqu’ile amphitheater stage for one night. Aug. 6, 6 p.m. $47. presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

CONCERTS IN THE PARK SERIES Enjoy Concerts in the Park 2026, with live music, summer nights, and community fun.

Aug. 8, 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0951. anc.apm. activecommunities.com/santamaria/activity/search?online SiteId=0&activity_select_param=2&activity_category_ ids=35&viewMode=list. Pioneer Park, 1150 W. Foster Rd., Orcutt.

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.

HAWAIIAN DANCE Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens presents a Hawaiian Dance with Riptide Big Band and dancer Yuka Freeman. Aug. 9, 1:30-4 p.m. Free. (775) 813-5186. RiptideBB.com.

Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda.

Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 623-5129, stellerscellar.com.

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.

“MY LIFE IN SONG” STARING GALE MCNEELEY AND PAUL MARSZALKOWSKI Broadway singer Gale McNeeley, and PCPA music director and pianist Paul Marszalkowski, tour the Central Coast in August with Mr. McNeeley’s show, “My Life in Song.”

Aug. 16, 3 p.m. suggested donation of $15. (805) 406-4997. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 402 S. Lincoln, Santa Maria.

OASIS 6TH ANNUAL SUMMER CONCERT AND COMEDY BENEFIT NIGHT Enjoy the Oasis Center 6th annual Summer Concert and Comedy Benefit Night at Presq’uile Winery. Aug. 8, 5-9 p.m. $45. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt.org. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria.

STOCKYARD SUMMER AND FALL CONCERT SERIES FEATURING CARBON CITY LIGHTS Aug. 15, 1 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Stockyard, 241 S Broadway St, Orcutt.

SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes.

Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

MUSIC continued page 17

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www.santamariasun.com • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • Sun • 15

Matilda The Musical

NOW - SUN, AUGUST 9

Templeton Performing Arts Center

UPCOMING EVENTS ON MY805TIX.COM

NOW - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

Flannel 101

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 The Pour House, Paso Robles

Friday Night Improv

Paso Robles Rotary Club Winemakers’ Cookoff

Cambria Center for the Arts

Paso Robles Event Center

FRI, AUGUST 7 - SUN, AUGUST 16

First Fridays Comedy in Atascadero

Resonance Presents: All Things New

Tent City Limits Concerts at The Printery

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8

Brass Mash First Friday

&

FRI, AUGUST 14 - FRI, OCTOBER 9 Atascadero Printery Foundation

The Molly Ringwald Project

Runaway Sherrie

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 Decades HiFi Lounge, Atascadero

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 Trinity Lutheran Church, Paso Robles

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 Central Coast Brewing, SLO

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 The Pour House, Paso Robles

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 The Stockyard, Santa Maria

Yoga’ssage

Nature Rhythms in Harmony

Rockin’ the Ranch: JD Project

The American Dream Has Become a Nightmare

Moonshiner Collective Under the Moon Concert

The Hallelujah Girls

Grave Mistakes

Zongo Yachting Cup 2026

Experiencia Bamboo: Intimate Fine Dining

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 Let’s Get Tuned Yoga Studio, Morro Bay

Babes Against The Machine

SUNDAY, AUGUST 9 2177 Old Creamery Rd, Harmony

SUNDAY, AUGUST 9 Filipponi Ranch, SLO

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11 Odd Fellows Hall, SLO

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 Dairy Creek Golf Course, SLO

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 San Luis Obispo Public Market

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 The Pour House, Paso Robles

FRI, AUG 14 - SUN, AUG 30 Oasis Senior Center, Orcutt

FRI, AUG 14 - SUN, AUG 30 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 Morro Bay Yacht Club

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 Bamboo Farm & Nursery, Paso Robles

Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band

Giafunni’s Comedy Saturday

Twin Fin Kings of the Coast Tour

Ballet Theatre Summer Performances

Pure Aloha Brunch

Rockin’ the Ranch: Jill Knight Band

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 The Pour House, Paso Robles

Overcoming The Assumptions That Keep You Stuck TUESDAY, AUGUST 18 ACI Jet, SLO

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 Giavanni’s Pizza, Santa Maria

Take the Mic at Mistura

TUESDAY, AUGUST 18 Mistura Restaurant, SLO

16 • Sun • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

SAT & SUN, AUGUST 15-16 Ballet Theatre, SLO

Scan QR code to sign up for the weekly Ticket Wire newsletter and get all the latest events each Wednesday.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 16 The Stockyard, Santa Maria

MONDAY, AUGUST 17 Filipponi Ranch, SLO

Portal Rhythms in Pismo: Mindful Drumming & Song

Discovering the Six Elements of a Balanced Life

TUESDAY, AUGUST 18 Portal at Living Energy, Pismo Beach

WEDNESAY, AUGUST 19 Odd Fellows Hall, SLO

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Live at the Lighthouse Concert Series

Little Shop of Horrors

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IMAGE COURTESY OF KELSEY WICKWIRE

MUSIC from page 15 SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

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

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES AT REFUGIO RANCH VINEYARDS TASTING The Refugio Ranch Tasting Room features live music every weekend this summer.

Join us to enjoy the atmosphere and our seasonal summer menu. Through Aug. 30 (805) 697-5289. refugioranch.com/events.

Refugio Ranch Tasting Room, 2990 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

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

SELL TICKETS WITH US! IT’S FREE! CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO. 805-546-8208

Featured Events

Best of SLO County Winners Party

FRIDAY, MAY 8 The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, Pismo Beach

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

KARAOKE AT COLD COAST BREWING CO. Pick out a song, bring your friends, and get ready to perform. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 819-0723, coldcoastbrewing.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 10 Community Presbyterian, Cambria

Casino Night Luau

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

JOURNEY USA: THE HITS OF JOURNEY More than just a concert, Journey USA , with its full production package including synchronized video playback and special effects, is an exhilarating multimedia experience! Aug. 14, 7:30 p.m. $39.50$65.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/.

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

LIVE ON THE ROCKS FEATURING THE MOLLY RINGWALD PROJECT FT. THE MOLLY RINGWALD PROJECT Live on the Rocks is a beloved free oceanfront concert at The Cliffs Hotel and Spa! Dance to a fabulous live band, and enjoy fantastic food. Aug. 9, 1-5 p.m. Free. (805) 773-5000. cliffshotelandspa.com. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach.

NIPOMO CONCERTS IN THE PARK Celebrate summer at Nipomo’s free Concerts in the Park series, with live bands, local food, dancing, and unforgettable evenings with friends, family, and neighbors every week.

Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through Aug. 26 Free. (805) 929-5437. nipomorecreation.com/. Nipomo Regional Park, 255 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo.

RESONANCE PRESENTS: ALL THINGS NEW Join the 35 voices of Resonance this August for “All Things New: Music of Endings and Beginnings”. Aug. 9, 3-4:30 p.m. $20-$30. Saint Barnabas’ Episcopal Church, 301 Trinity Avenue, Arroyo Grande.

RESONANCE PRESENTS: ALL THINGS NEW MUSIC OF BEGINNINGS AND ENDINGS Resonance, SLO County’s premier a cappella choral ensemble, presents All Things New, a powerful choral experience featuring music with themes of endings and beginnings.

Aug. 9, 3-4:30 p.m. $20-$30. resonanceslo.com/. St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 301 Trinity Way, Arroyo Grande.

If I Only Had a Song

The Mac & Cheese Festival 2026

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

Morro Bay Community Center

Avila Beach Golf Resort

FLOWER FIELDS AT FIELDWORK

Fieldwork in Atascadero invites the community to an artist reception for Montana artist Kelsey Wickwire on Friday, Aug. 7, from 6 to 9 p.m. Wickwire’s solo exhibition, Flower Fields, consists of layered, dreamlike paintings of color and botanical imagery that explore memory, landscape, and the connections between people and place. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artist as well as enjoy live music by Josh Ottum and Alex Nash. Visit fieldworkart.org for more details.

—A.S. THURSDAY NIGHT MUSIC IN THE PARK Free concerts with SLO County Band at Rancho Grande Park. Aug. 13, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/rec.

Rancho Grande Park, 500 James Way, Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BRASS MASH FIRST FRIDAY AT CENTRAL COAST BREWING First Fridays are magical nights filled with the vibrant energy of our all-horn band. Join the festivities at Central Coast Brewing Bakcyard in SLO and immerse yourself in the unique fusion of your favorite rock and pop songs. It’s a musical journey that promises to be unforgettable, so make sure to wear sensible shoes for the danceworthy beats. Aug. 7, 6-10 p.m. $25.41. my805tix.com. Central Coast Brewing, 6 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

“MY LIFE IN SONG” STARING GALE MCNEELEY AND PAUL MARSZALKOWSKI Broadway singer Gale McNeeley, and PCPA Music director and pianist Paul

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Marszalkowski, tour the Central Coast in August with Mr. McNeeley’s show, “My Life in Song.” There is a suggested donation of $15. Aug. 9, 3 p.m. (805) 406-4997. Unitarian Universalist Church, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo.

THE QUINTET OF THE HOT CLUB OF SAN FRANCISCO IN CONCERT AT ANDERSON SOCIAL America’s Longest-running and most popular gypsy jazz band in concert!

The HCSF never fails to dazzle and delight!

Don’t miss their rare Central Coast appearance. Aug. 6, 7-9 p.m. $35. (415) 9310909. anderson.social. Anderson Social, 951 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo.

RESONANCE PRESENTS: ALL THINGS NEW MUSIC OF BEGINNINGS AND ENDINGS Resonance. SLO County’s premier a cappella choral ensemble, presents All Things New, a powerful choral experience featuring music with themes of endings and beginnings. Aug. 8, 3-4:30 p.m. $20-$30. resonanceslo.com/.

Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo. m

What’s Your Take?

Fight Night XI

Ultimate Funny Competition

Ultra Live at the Pour House

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 Alex Madonna Expo Center, SLO

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 The Bunker SLO, SLO

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 The Pour House, Paso Robles

Shamanic Morning Rituals for Vitality

Morro Bay Comedy Night with Rick Izquieta FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 The Nauti Anchor, Morro Bay

Saltwound Cultist

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

Stephen Styles Live

How We Met: Live Dating Show

Sacred Sounds Portal

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 Aurora Sacred Events, Morro Bay

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 The Pour House, Paso Robles

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 SLO Cider, SLO

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 Portal at Living Energy, Pismo Beach

Share the Care - A Benefit for 805undocufund

Bight Presents: One Ocean Film Festival

Science After Dark John Lindsey

We know you’ve got an opinion.

Everybody’s got one!

What’s the biggest issue facing students today? m Cellphone use and distractions in the classroom. m The need for more after-school programs. m Homelessness and lack of affordable housing. m Increasing demand for Career Technical Education programs

SUNDAY, AUGUST 23 The Rock, SLO

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MONDAY, AUGUST 24 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 Central Coast Aquarium, Avila Beach

Scan QR code with camera to sign up for the weekly Ticket Wire newsletter and get all the latest events each Wednesday

This week’s online poll: 8/6 – 8/13 Enter your choice online at: SantaMariaSun.com www.santamariasun.com • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • Sun • 17

Arts ARTS BRIEFS A photographer’s desert collection hangs at CalNAM

COURTESY PHOTO BY PAULETTE DONNELLON

Nicely staged

STAGE PHOTO COURTESY OF ALLAN HANCOCK COLLEGE

After gaining decades of experience nationwide, PCPA’s new artistic director heads back to Santa Maria

BY MADISON WHITE

A

See Paulette Donnellon’s tribute to Southern California’s Anza-Borrego State Park at the California Nature Art Museum in Solvang. Untamed Desert will be up through Jan. 18 at the Valley Oak Gallery.

“The desert has always held a special place in my heart,” Donnellon said in press materials. “In my work as a nature and wildlife photographer, I’ve learned that if you slow down, really look, and connect with your surroundings, you will discover a vibrant world full of stories ready to be told.”

Donnellon is drawn to capturing the hidden stories found in intense desert life. Her patience and hours in the field allow her to snap photographs that honor the landscape.

“From the powerful, sure-footed climb of a desert bighorn sheep along rugged ridgelines, to the alert, wide-eyed stance of a burrowing owl guarding its sandy doorway, each image reflects Donnellon’s deep reverence for this arid landscape,” the museum announced. “More than a visual journey, this exhibition is a celebration of the park’s wild spirit and a reminder that even in the harshest environments, beauty endures.”

Visit the museum on weekdays (except Tuesdays and Wednesdays) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. or on weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s located at 1511-B Mission Drive in Solvang. Find more information at calnatureartmuseum.org.

Santa Maria commemorates 50 years of public transit with a new mural

PHOTO BY MADISON WHITE

A public art installation at the Santa Maria Transit Center celebrates the city’s evolution throughout the past five decades.

On July 28, city staff held an unveiling event for the community.

“Designed by local artists Loyal and Joan Newville, the mural, The Spirit of Santa Maria: A Journey Through Time, celebrates the community’s transportation history and natural beauty,” according to the city. “The artwork depicts Santa Maria’s evolution through stagecoaches, railroads, aviation, and today’s SMRT transit system, illustrating how transportation has connected people, places, and opportunities throughout the community.”

The project was made possible by a collaboration between the city’s Public Works Transit Division and the Recreation and Parks Department.

“It celebrates the people, history, and progress of Santa Maria while recognizing the important role public transit has played in connecting our community for the past 50 years,” Recreation Services Manager Dennis Smitherman said in a press release.

See the mural at the Santa Maria Transit Center near the ticketing windows, located at 400 Boone St. For more information about public transportation, visit cityofsantamaria.org. m Staff Writer Madison White compiles Arts Briefs. Send your upcoming creative happenings to mwhite@santamariasun.com.

Stages. However, Rachelle never severed her connection to PCPA. “I was working at other theaters and directing and casting, so I would come back almost every single year and audition their second-year conservatory students and their interns,” Rachelle said. “They bring in casting directors to help not only their students understand how to audition but to start forging relationships with regional theaters. So, I would come back every year, usually in March or April, and during COVID times, I Zoomed in.”

Soon she’ll move back to northern Santa Barbara County, one of her “most favorite areas in California.” Though working at PCPA was fun, her most memorable experience by far was having her daughter in Santa Maria. Remembering the community as loving and generous makes Rachelle excited to move back.

“I would teach a movement class in the NEW ERA: Valerie Rachelle was recently named morning, and then one of my co-workers the new artistic director and dean of the Pacific Conservatory Theatre. She’ll officially take the role in would watch my child while my husband early October. was working,” Rachelle said. “She had a whole conservatory full of supportive babysitters and colleagues who supported Community and collaboration excite her, and it’s me through motherhood, so I couldn’t have asked why she first fell in love with performing. Rachelle’s for a better place to have a child.” parents were magicians when she was growing Building close relationships also translates up, and they all toured together, bringing their onstage. Rachelle feels her job as artistic director is illusionist act to audiences throughout the U.S. all about collaboration. She loves being able to work “I came from jumping out of boxes and quick with the entire team, from the lighting crew to the changes and taking care of bunny rabbits and doves costume designer to the cast. When she starts the and the whole bit,” she said with a laugh. “I started role, her responsibility will be to give artists the dancing in dance class when I was 3 or 4, and I tools and opportunities to do their best work. loved it.”

“It’s about forethought. It’s about clear She landed her first professional acting gig a PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PACIFIC CONSERVATORY THEATRE communication. It’s about vision for few years later and has remained tied to the world the theater as a whole and [its] strategic of drama, whether it be through performing, plan as a whole, rather than just show choreographing and directing, or teaching the next by show,” Rachelle explained. generation.

Collaboration is also about The thought of being back in a room overseeing engaging the audience, creating a PCPA’s education component is exciting to whole experience for everybody in the Rachelle. Her goal is to guide artists on their paths room. It’s one of the few things that to achieving their full potential. She called PCPA a cannot be taken over by technology. “gem of the Central Coast” because of how it blends Live theater must always be live. teaching with practical experience.

“Only part of my job can happen “[It’s] one of the only theaters that I have worked on technology,” Rachelle said. “The at across the country that not only has really highother part has to be in person and has quality professional theater but has a conservatory to be live with other human beings in attached that actually is walking the walk and not the room together, and that will never just talking the talk,” Rachelle said. change for theater or live performance.

She feels she has a pulse on the industry’s climate … No matter how much AI we have in in the economy because of her previous roles.

ROCKIN’ AND ROLLIN’: Beehive—The 60s Musical ended its electric run in Santa Maria on Aug. 2, but audiences have the world or how much technology we It’s been “invaluable education” while building another chance to see it at the Solvang Festival Theater have, that part of it—the blood, sweat, leadership skills. through Aug. 23. tears, spit—will never change.”

“My daughter is currently in college, and so I’m PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PACIFIC CONSERVATORY THEATRE going through the process with her as well. I’m watching what college students are going through right now and thinking to myself, ‘Community college is going to be the place and conservatory training is going to be the place where artists are going to start really flocking because of cost and because of access to arts education,’” Rachelle said.

Her message to future students is that it’s possible to work in the business, survive financially, and feel rewarded.

“I know sometimes people think of theater as just entertainment, which sometimes it is, and that’s totally valid,” Rachelle said. “But someone taking the time to come in and watch a group—this live, Full season ahead magical performance—actually changes hearts and Buy tickets for upcoming productions minds without anyone even knowing it. Empathy at the Pacific Conservatory Theatre online is created in community, and so it’s nice that there’s at pcpa.org. Season 63 kicks off with La Comedia of Errors running from Sept. 10 to 27. still a place where you can come and tell stories.” m

s Valerie Rachelle prepares for her return to the Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA), she can’t help but notice a few coincidences.

The actor and director first stepped foot on the Santa Maria stage in 1996 as a dancer in Camelot.

But when she was rehired for a longer stint nine years later, the last production she worked on was Les Misérables, in which she played the tragically devoted mother, Fantine.

“What’s so funny is that was the last production I did before I left, and then it’s in the first season of me coming back, which is so cool,” Rachelle told the Sun. At the July 21 meeting, Allan Hancock College trustees officially named Rachelle the artistic director and dean of the conservatory. She’ll start the position in October, also the month she returned in 2005.

Rachelle will take over for longtime leader Mark Booher, who spent more than 20 years as the theater’s artistic director. Booher assumed the role not long after Rachelle began directing in 2005.

“My entire tenure there was basically, except for one month, with Mark as artistic director,” Rachelle remembered. “I was a young’un, just out of grad school, when I was there directing. One of the things I love about Mark is how he just has so much artistic integrity.”

While Booher was leading the organization, Rachelle worked at PCPA as a casting director, resident director, and teacher. She was born and raised in Oregon but moved to LA at 18 years old for college.

Jobs have taken Rachelle across the country, and she’s currently based in Texas as the associate artistic director for a Houston company called

A WELL-REGARDED COMPANY: Students at Allan Hancock College gain professional training from the Pacific Conservatory Theatre, performing for the community each season in Santa Maria and Solvang.

18 • Sun • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Staff Writer Madison White enjoys a healthy dose of local theater. Send your favorite lines to mwhite@ santamariasun.com.

JUL 23-AUG 2

AUG 7-23

MARIAN THEATRE SANTA MARIA

SOLVANG FESTIVAL THEATER

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! TICKETS 805-922-8313 |PCPA.ORG GROUPS* 805-928-7731 x.4150

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Get up close with sharks and sea stars at the Sea Center’s interactive exhibits.

www.santamariasun.com • August 6 - August 13, 2026 • Sun • 19

Film

SUN SCREEN

Friend in need

PHOTO COURTESY OF SONY PICTURES RELEASING

D

Cori: Gushing is right! This movie has it all: estin Daniel Cretton (Shang-Chi and the cum jokes, jokes about cum, and even some Legend of the Ten Rings) directs this fourth ejaculation puns! You’ll see! It’s all in the wrists installment of the Marvel Cinematic (physical comedy). Don’t worry, parents, they’re Universe’s Spider-Man series. After Dr. Stephen disguised in webs of mediocre writing, so your Strange’s spell at the end of Spider-Man: No Way children won’t catch them, … but I did. This is Home (2021), no one remembers Peter Parker a journey on Spider-Man’s road to (Tom Holland)—not his best friend, adulthood, but I imagine it’s also an Ned (Jacob Batalon), and not even his announcement that Tommy is going girlfriend, MJ (Zendaya). Peter lives SPIDER-MAN: to be taking on some more grownalone doing the work of Spider-Man BRAND NEW DAY up roles himself. full time, but then his superpowers What’s it rated? PG-13 Matt: And glad we are aware of begin to evolve just as he’s investigating What’s it worth, Glen? that. Truth be told, I’ve made it a new threat. (145 min.)

Matinee this far in life without seeing a Editor’s note: Anna Starkey is What’s it worth, Cori? single Spider-Man movie, though Matinee camping, so former New Times I’ve caught enough other Marvel What’s it worth, Matt? reporter turned public defender Cinematic Universe entries to not Matinee investigator Matt Fountain be completely lost. But the cast Where’s it showing? and comic and hairstylist Cori and crew of this one definitely Regal Edwards Cameron are sitting in. understood the assignment. It’s RPX Santa Maria, Glen: It’s a brand new day, baby, so a wisecracking, coming-of-age Movies Lompoc, fresh paychecks for everyone! The Spider-Man and his signature brand Regal Edwards big message is that superhero-ing of slapstick action that sends him Arroyo Grande is lonely, isolating work, and that’s crashing through buildings without bad! Friends and relationships are any great consequence. But after the tantamount to mental health. OK, that’s sweet third or so such scenario, I mentally tuned out. enough. What I liked is we get more than just Glen: It is long and somewhat repetitive, and Spider-Man. The Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Black early on I could have nodded off, but I became Widow (Florence Pugh, not Scar-Jo), and The more invested as the plot developed. As usual, Punisher (Jon Bernthal) are all featured, not to a shadowy government agency that’s supposed mention an X-Men tie-in. Fan boys and girls will to be the good guy is shady AF, and the “bad guy” turns out to have a legit grievance. As be gushing over this one.

TANGLED WEB: Tom Holland returns as Peter Parker—aka Spider-Man—whose powers are evolving just as he’s facing a new threat, in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, screening in local theaters.

superhero flicks go, this one’s eye-popping, and seeing it in the Downtown Centre’s premiere Dolby Vision + Atmos auditorium makes for an immersive experience. If you’re going to go, do it right! I didn’t love it. It was fun enough, but pay no attention to me. I might have summer blockbuster fatigue. I think I’m ready for adult movie season again.

Cori: I don’t think they show “adult movies” in theaters anymore, Glen, but I’m ready for fall as well. I enjoyed the action, and the soundtrack was very good! The damage done to NYC in this movie does leave you wondering who the villain really is, but thank god they wrap it up in a nice

little package for us at completion.

Matt: There’s probably a little something in here for everyone if you’re in the mood. The plot is a variation on one scene we’ve seen many times before, but the cameos from other beloved MCU characters made this enjoyable overall for me.

But I miss The Daily Bugle!

Cori: You just miss being a journalist, Matt. The Daily Bugle hasn’t been a part of this universe since 2007. m New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen.

Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HBO MAX

MISS YOU, LOVE YOU

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2026 Where’s it showing? HBO Max Grieving widow Diane Patterson (Allison Janney) is forced to plan her husband’s funeral with her estranged son’s assistant, Jamie Simms (Andrew Rannells), after her globetrotting son is unwilling to return home, in writer-director Jim Rash’s (The Way Way Back, Downhill) bittersweet new dramedy.

When we meet Diana, she’s prickly. We discover that she and her late husband moved to sundrenched New Mexico from New York, which she hated to leave, so she’s stuck in a place she doesn’t like. Her son, Tyler, from a previous marriage, only communicates via text, THE STAND IN: Grieving widow Diane Patterson (Allison but despite his absence, his character is central Janney, right) is forced to plan her husband’s funeral with in Diane’s and Jamie’s minds.

Jamie Simms (Andrew Rannells), her globetrotting son’s Diane’s grief seems to give her the upper assistant, in Miss You, Love You, streaming on HBO Max. hand in the exchanges between the two characters. She can vacillate between imperious There are more than two characters, but this has the feel and wounded, and kudos to Janney for delivering an acting of an intimate play, and I read that Rash pitched it as such. master class. For Rannells’ part, he matches Janney’s subtly It’s an insightful examination of grief and loss. complicated character by creating a man who honestly wants (97 min.) to help and has sympathy for this angry stranger. They’re both —Glen hurting and harboring resentments toward Tyler.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

VOICEMAILS FOR ISABELLE

What’s it rated? TV-14 When? 2026 Where’s it showing? Netflix Jill (Zoey Deutch) is a young woman navigating her life and career as a baker in San Francisco and coping with the death of her younger sister, Isabelle (Ciaro Bravo), from cystic fibrosis. With intense pressure from her boss, Chef Bastien (Nick Offerman), and an f-boy hookup at work named Tyler (Toby Sandeman), Jill is feeling unsure of her future as a baker, and she gets drunk and calls her sister’s phone number, leaving her a voicemail.

This becomes her new source of comfort—leaving voicemails into the ether updating her late sister on her life, pitfalls YOU’VE GOT VOICEMAIL: After he’s assigned a dead girl’s and all. What she doesn’t know is that Wes cell number, Wes (Nick Robinson) begins to get messages (Nick Robinson) has acquired her sister’s from her sister, Jill (Zoey Deutch), leading to a precarious old phone number and has been listening courtship, in Voicemails for Isabelle, streaming on Netflix. to her voicemails and forming a crush.

What follows is the usual rom-comand cute, nonetheless. If you’re a fan of the genre, it’s certainly drama tropes—he finds her, charms her, can’t bring himself worth curling up on the couch for. It’ll scratch the rom-com to tell her, she finds out and is furious. Director itch you have, but have tissues handy! (118 min.) m Leah McKendrick isn’t bringing anything wildly —Anna new to the table with this film, but it is charming

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GOING OLD-SCHOOL: Analogue Room is a vinyl lounge, wine bar, and pizza spot in Solvang that’s reviving the art of listening to an entire album.

Unplugged

Wright is a jack of all trades—he also owns Buellton’s Standing Wines and Analogue Room in Solvang spins Sun works in contracting, architecture, and records, pizza dough, and corks winemaking. He’s no

BY MADISON WHITE stranger to blending the disciplines.

“I guess I’m just a die-hard creative. slight scratch from the turntable.

Quiet chatter from guests. Sound I can’t stop thinking about what else I can do,” Wright said. waves vibrating from a record At Analogue Room, creations from player. nearby vintners fill out the wine list.

The aural experience is at the heart of John Wright’s latest ambition, a vinyl Wright’s goal at the beginning was to feature other wineries, but he said his lounge in Solvang called Analogue bottles will soon become the house Room. He likes the idea of considering pours. the space a listening room, not a bar.

“We have local wines that are all “It just seemed like a great space as a from around here that are small hub for the community in this part of town, and it had this inviting feeling of production. I mean, some of the producers are doing 50 cases,” Wright kind of a hidden sort of gem,” Wright explained. told the Sun one afternoon before He’s also brought in a few varieties opening. “The vinyl part came after from Europe, as well as domestic and some travels and finding other vinyl European craft beer. Visitors can also listening rooms that seemed to be order nonalcoholic options or a lowpopping up around the country, and I percentage spritz. thought it was a great idea.”

When guests get hungry, they Analogue Room debuted in July, can choose from a small menu of nestled next to Chomp and the pizza and salads headed by chef Joe Santa Ynez Valley Creamery, with a Blanchard. Pepperoni and Margherita small menu of food and beverages to on focaccia crusts were the first accompany the music.

A

classics to hit the menu. One square slice is filling enough for a meal but not too heavy or greasy. It’s simple, quick, and fresh.

“It’s about an inch thick, and we par bake it,” Wright said. “It’s, you know, three-quarters of the way cooked, and then we just have to top it. We put it in the oven, which is a high-end, electric pizza oven, and so it takes about eight minutes to cook.”

The owner is almost ready to add two new pizzas to the menu, likely a sausage and mushroom pie and another with arugula and prosciutto.

He and his two managers stop at the farmers market down the street on Wednesdays for fresh produce to dress the pizzas and fill salad bowls.

Currently there’s a Caesar and a market salad on the menu.

Perhaps even more attractive than the beverages and bites is the record player. Analogue Room’s growing album collection is on display behind the bar. There’s a little bit of Fleetwood Mac, Queen, and Dionne Warwick. Also, Al Green, The Rolling Stones, and The B-52s.

An easygoing vibe kicks off in the late afternoon crowd, building to a more upbeat, rock ’n’ roll atmosphere.

Expect some hip-hop in the mix as the night crawls on; the lounge closes at 10 p.m., sometimes later. Analogue Room can have a lot of personalities.

“We’re trying to bring the experience beyond the bar,” Wright said. “The layout is nice and open.

It’s fairly bright but in a very moody setting. It’s not particularly dark, and at night it glows.”

Wright loaned his experience with construction and architectural design to the months of interior

Vines, vinyl, and vibes AN INVITING GLOW: With seating options to accommodate everyone from large groups to couples and individuals, owner John Wright wants Analogue Room to be a place where people can unplug and relax.

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Analogue Room is open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m. Visit at 1693 Mission Drive, suite 105, in Solvang. For more information, go to analogueroom.com or @analogueroomsyv on Instagram.

BYE BYE, SPOTIFY: Owner John Wright’s early memories with vinyl are listening to records while eating dinner with his dad.

JUST THE CLASSICS: Baked on a focaccia crust, Analogue Room’s pizza menu includes pepperoni, Margherita, and rotating seasonal variations.

work. He and his guys handcrafted the tables, bench, bar, and shelves.

Though it’s not vibrant in color (besides a soft orange glow), the space is vibrant in texture.

“The combination of the wood and the leather and the plaster. The product that we used for most of it is called Baltic birch, and it has this striped pattern on it. That’s the edge of a piece of plywood,” he explained.

“We would take strips of plywood, and we would cut it into 1-inch and three-quarter-inch strips, and then we would flip it on its side and glue them together … very time consuming.”

The technique resulted in a vertical striation, Wright continued, that the builders also incorporated into the tiled kitchen walls and much of the décor.

“The idea is that it mimics the vertical records on a shelf,” the owner said.

Visitors often peruse the collection, bringing down albums

and placing them in front of the record player as a request to hear them. When General Manager Blake Economus is working, he’s usually the one spinning records, but Wright’s plan is to also invite featured DJs to come in for nightlong sets.

Wright remembers listening to albums with his father while eating dinner. He recently picked up his dad’s record collection and said memories came flooding back of the albums he heard growing up. At Analogue Room, visitors get to have that experience of listening to one album all the way through over a meal.

“The story here is the whole album.

If you were just listening to individual songs and jumping around from artists to artist and genre to genre,” Wright said, “you miss the flow of the whole album.” m Staff Writer Madison White admires the art of going analog. Reach her at mwhite@santamariasun.com.

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