The county aims to tackle unpermitted streetside vending with the help of a task force [8]
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Lompoc residents ask councilman to resign [4] A new Thai spot in Solvang
[29]
Jalama’s artist in residence [26]
Jay Kelly is earnest [28]
Third District Santa Barbara County Supervisor Joan Hartmann said her office receives a lot of complaints about unpermitted food vendors along Santa Ynez Valley roads like Highway 246. She calls the issue an unintended consequence of California’s efforts to decriminalize street vending because the county has a hard time enforcing its food safety codes when it comes to some of those streetside pop-ups. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood speaks to the county, Hartmann, and other businesses for this week’s story [8]
Also, read about Lompoc residents who want Councilmember Steve Bridge to resign [4]; the White Buffalo Land Trust’s first artist in residence [26]; and Solvang’s only Thai spot [29]
Santa's House in Mission Plaza
•U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara), U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California), and 27 other members of the California Democratic congressional delegation recently signed a joint letter to condemn the Trump administration’s 2027-2032 Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program , which includes six lease proposals off the coast of Northern, Central, and Southern California. Addressed to President Donald Trump and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum the Dec. 5 letter says the plan as drafted would undermine state laws that prohibit new offshore drilling along California’s 1,110-mile coastline. “We stand united with the overwhelming majority of Californians who fundamentally oppose any proposal that would expand offshore drilling and risk our state’s invaluable, ecologically unique coast,” the letter states. “This proposal, coupled with ongoing efforts to reduce federal staffing and funding for agencies that protect our environment, including for safety and oil spill response, is not only dangerous but outright reckless.” Efforts to block offshore drilling in California began in 1969 when an oil rig off the coast of Santa Barbara leaked 3 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean, blanketing beaches with a thick layer of oil and killing thousands of marine mammals and birds. It was the largest oil spill in U.S. history until the Exxon Valdez spill 20 years later. “As we have repeatedly seen in California and other parts of the country, offshore drilling is a ticking time bomb,” the letter states.
• California Climate and Agriculture Network (CalCAN) Policy Director Brian Shobe issued a statement on Dec. 5 to congratulate State Sen. Monique Limón on becoming California’s new state Senate president pro tempore. Limón, who was sworn into the role in late November, was chosen to be honored at a Dec. 9 celebration co-hosted by CalCAN and the Community Environmental Council to commemorate the occasion. “We are celebrating her rise to the highest position in the state Senate because she is the driven and effective climate leader we need at this moment in our state and nation,” Shobe said in the Dec. 5 statement. Shobe described Limón as a longtime advocate for climate resilience and agriculture who champions state policies and investments that support Central Coast farms and ranches. “Sen. Limón gets the myriad challenges farmers and ranchers are facing, and she acts with conviction and urgency to address the rising costs of climate change to communities across California,” Shobe said. Founded in 2009, CalCAN includes a network of more 4,000 innovative farmers, ranchers, researchers, advisors, and other advocates that promote the benefits of sustainable and organic farming.
• In a Dec. 5 statement, U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-California) commented on Netflix ’s proposed $82 billion merger with Warner Bros. Discovery “The proposed merger between two of Hollywood’s biggest players will have seismic impacts on the industry and the thousands upon thousands of workers that it supports across Los Angeles and California,” Schiff said. “As this deal is scrutinized, my North Star will be the hardworking Californians who bring us the news, who inspire us and make us laugh or cry, and who are responsible for America’s greatest cultural export around the world. I look forward to better understanding how both companies plan to protect this critical industry and its workers at a time when domestic film and television production is already under the greatest strain in its history.” On Dec. 8, Paramount announced its all-cash tender offer to acquire Warner Bros. that the company claims will provide shareholders $18 billion more in cash than the Netflix deal. m
Lompoc City Councilmember Steve Bridge pleads not guilty to felony charges
Charged with embezzlement and misuse of city funds, Lompoc 1st District Councilmember Steve Bridge showed no intention of stepping down from the dais after one of his peers called for his resignation.
“I will be found not guilty. Therefore, I’ll continue to support and represent every member of the community and District 1,” Bridge said at the council’s Dec. 2 meeting. “I have not committed any crime.”
During his arraignment in Santa Maria Superior Court on Dec. 4, Bridge pleaded not guilty to eight felony counts—which include charges of forgery, identity theft, and property theft that totals to nearly $10,000. Santa Barbara County District Attorney John T. Savrnoch filed the charges in late November.
Bridge told the council about his plea decision shortly after 4th District Councilmember Jeremy Ball and a handful of public speakers asked him to resign in light of the charges.
“The lawyers tell me the best path for this is to make no comment in either social media or the news. But even so, I’m going to make a comment,” Bridge said at the meeting. “A lot of news has been going around about me. It has been with a great deal of restraint that I haven’t commented on social media, that I normally am on, but I don’t want to feed the drama. … I believe in the American justice system and I’m confident that through the court process, I will be found not guilty.”
Earlier in the meeting, Councilmember Ball requested that staff either bring back the steps needed for the council to hold a no confidence vote to determine whether Bridge stays on the council, or to immediately strip Bridge “of any committee assignments where he represents the city of Lompoc.”
“It is not appropriate to have someone with this cloud of charges representing the city of Lompoc in any sort of manner from my perspective,” Ball said. “We are elected officials. We are held to a higher standard. We are the fiduciary overseers of the city budget, and it is up to us to make sure we are staying aboveboard and not bringing reproach upon this city.”
Neither of Ball’s requests moved forward for exploration after some moments of silence.
“No support, … I hear that loud and clear. I received no support from this council,” Ball said. “There have been over 600 city council people to serve in jurisdictions throughout Santa Barbara County—600 plus. I could not find one example of a sitting city council person that has been charged with this level of criminal charges. Everyone deserves their day in court, but it is
up to us as a council to rebuild trust within our community.”
Lompoc Mayor Jim Mosby said that “the due process component needs to lay itself out” before the council weighs in on Bridge’s circumstances.
“We don’t have black robes on up here. We are policy makers, we are not judges,” Mosby said. “I think tainting the jury pool and playing the games that are being played right now need to chill out.”
“You’re going to lecture me about this?” Ball said.
“I did not call you out directly,” Mosby responded.
During public comment, Lompoc Valley Democratic Club President Carson Link was among the speakers who asked Bridge to step down.
“Steve, I really do count you as a friend. I’ve told you many, many times, for good and for bad, you remind me so much of my own father,” said Link, who described Bridge as a good standing and duepaying member of the Democratic Club.
“I’ve known you through there for a couple of years now, we’ve spoken many times about policy and we agree on more things than we don’t,” Link continued. “Unfortunately, tonight though, I am here to join the calls for you to step back out of your position. … If you are innocent, you can come back and make us all eat crow, and you can run again and probably easily win. But, right now, this is a stain on our community.”
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Jan. 15 in Santa Maria Superior Court.
—Caleb Wiseblood
Santa Maria Fire sees improvements with new dispatch center
Anyone in Santa Barbara County who calls for emergency fire or medical help receives the quickest response possible from firefighters
thanks to the new regional dispatch center. It’s the same story in Santa Maria, and this year, the city’s Fire Department also made changes to improve efficiency.
“You’re getting the closest unit down to the second throughout the city, which I think is fantastic,” Santa Maria Fire Department Battalion Chief Seth Wells said.
Since June, all the county’s fire and medical calls to 911 have filtered to one place. Emergency medical dispatchers answer them at the Regional Fire Communications Center (RFCC) in Santa Barbara.
The calls are still initially taken at places like the Santa Maria Police Department, but they’re immediately transferred to the RFCC.
With this centralized dispatch, the jurisdictional lines that separated cities into districts are gone. Now, the closest firefighters will be sent to the scene, no matter if it’s their district or not. For example, if an engine is closer to a caller by one second, it’ll be the one responding to the scene.
The fire departments in Santa Maria, Lompoc, and Guadalupe are among the seven in the county that transitioned to the regional center, according to the county. The RFCC, a roughly $18 million project, has been up and running for about six months and celebrated a ribbon cutting ceremony on Dec. 9.
Wells, who’s also the RFCC liaison at the Santa Maria Fire Department, has seen the benefits firsthand, but the transition got off to a “rocky start.”
It took the agency time to adjust to the RFCC system, like building new muscle memory, Wells explained. Even hearing new names and voices on the radio took some getting used to.
And then there were changes in the department separate from the regional center.
“One thing we did is we’ve added the truck to all the vehicle accidents in the city,” Wells said, referring to the trucks with big ladders on top. “So, more resources are rolling to help people out, and it’s nice to see.”
In June, the department altered its use of Tablet Command, a mobile incident management software on tablets. Instead of only one-way communication, firefighters are now able to talk back to dispatch. With just a tap, units can communicate if they’re responding or if they’re available for another call.
Firefighters are receiving “an extreme amount of information” in real time on the tablets. Instead of a few lines, they could receive a page full of details, which are constantly updating about the incident they’re responding to. It cuts out some of the radio traffic, too.
“I think what it’s done for our department, [is] it’s really given a lot of autonomy to our captains and to our battalion chiefs to really empower them to make a lot of command-based decisions on their own,” Wells said. “It’s nice to see our
TO BE CONTINUED: At the Lompoc City Council’s Dec. 2 meeting, Councilmember Steve Bridge said he will continue to serve on the council during his criminal trial. He was arraigned on Dec. 4 for eight felony charges, which he pleaded not guilty to.
captains and battalion chiefs able to make those decisions in the field based on their experience and their knowledge of the city.”
Now that Wells has had months to digest the impacts of all the changes, he likes how the new systems are working. Dispatchers are getting better every day, learning how to navigate Santa Maria and best serve the community.
There are currently more than a handful of vendors interested, including some farmers, a butcher, a baker, and “a jewelry lady,” Browning said. She added that all of them are based in Santa Barbara County.
“I have enough people to get it going,” she said. “They’re ready to go.”
City staff told the Planning Commission that the conditions tied to a permit approval would require Browning to also apply for a separate special event permit, which would outline specifics about the event—including use of trash cans and porta-potties—and the city’s requirements of participating vendors.
• Smog Check For All Vehicles • Mobile Services For Big Trucks • Battery Check, Test & Changes
While Guadalupe gets ready to debut its first farmers market by February, Buellton officials are eyeing March as a potential start date to begin one of their own.
On Dec. 4, the Buellton Planning Commission granted Brenda Browning a conditional use permit that will allow vendors who participate in her proposed farmers market to set up shop on two city-owned medians on Avenue of Flags.
If the market comes to fruition, Planning
Commissioner Shannon Reese said she believes it’ll add “some vitality, … on a regular basis, to the Avenue of Flags, which I appreciate.”
Browning told the commission that her family operates several farmers markets across Ventura, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties, “so we’re not new to it.”
She’s also the founder of the seasonal Los Alamos farmers market, which closed for the year in October.
“We had so many people from the Buellton area attend and ask if I could please do one here,” said Browning, whose proposal allows space for 13 vendors to participate.
“There’s also several conditions related to County Health and county Agricultural Commission approvals,” Buellton Associate Planner Cara Miralles said. “Those would be the responsibility of the applicant to obtain or confirm that the vendors have the required health permits.”
Miralles described the farmers market proposal as aligning with goals set out by the Avenue of Flags specific plan, specifically for the two selected city-owned medians, known as medians 2 and 3, among a total of five on that street.
“The specific plan for the Avenue of Flags envisions median 2 to be used for events like farmers markets and it was designed with this use in mind,” Miralles said. “Median 3 is envisioned to be a park-like atmosphere with community amenities.”
Planning Commissioner Kasey Kump described the project as a good use of city land before motioning to approve the conditional use permit. The motion passed 4-0 (Planning Commissioner Brian Campbell was absent). m —Caleb Wiseblood
Where the sidewalk bends
Local food safety authorities want sharper teeth to better deter unlawful roadside food pop-ups
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Tensions were sky-high the night Lompoc Mayor Jim Mosby went viral on TikTok for protesting a taco stand located behind a Conserve Fuel station.
“This is not legal,” Mosby told sidewalk vendors on the corner of North A and North H streets. “Where’s the refrigeration? What are your temperatures? You have no health permit.”
He emphasized that he loves Mexican food shortly after one seller threatened to call the police. The two-minute clip capturing the incident garnered 16,000 likes and 2,000 shares on TikTok during the first week of December.
At more than 700 comments and counting, the post spurred both online and in-person backlash, with the latter coming from public speakers at the Lompoc City Council’s Dec. 2 meeting.
“Mr. Mayor, let’s talk about the video everyone has seen of you, … confronting Latino street vendors like they’re the problem in a city struggling to attract any living-wage industry,” Lompoc resident Shawna Stillwell said at the hearing.
“Instead of bringing opportunity here, you’re out there flexing your power on hardworking people selling food to feed their kids,” Stillwell continued. “These are families who already live with the daily fear of being torn apart and hunted by federal ICE agents.”
One resident called Mosby a vigilante, while another said he understood the mayor’s intentions but didn’t like how the confrontation played out.
“I’m not saying that we shouldn’t regulate food trucks and things, I’m all for that, mayor. Absolutely. But, … the way it was done is just not great,” Aaron Crocker said. “And it just makes me feel bad about the city I’m in.”
Some TikTok users responded similarly to Crocker in the video’s comment section.
“As awesome as their setup is, and as much as I support their right to free market,
there are rules in place for a reason,” one user commented. “However, he could have handled this differently. He should have alerted authorities but instead made himself look like the aggressor.”
Like every city in Santa Barbara County, Lompoc’s food safety inspections fall under the responsibility of Environmental Health Services (EHS), a branch of the county Health
Department that walks restaurants and mobile eateries through the steps to become permitted—none of which require an applicant to disclose their citizenship or immigration status.
“We don’t ask any of those questions,” County Health Deputy Director of Operations Lars Seifert told the Sun.
“There’s a lot of immigrants that work in our
local restaurant industry and operate mobile food trucks. We welcome that diversity and perspective into the community,” Seifert said. “We just want to make sure you’re doing it in a way that protects food safety, … [so] we can ensure that we’re protecting public health against foodborne illnesses.”
When EHS comes across a sidewalk vendor that’s either unpermitted or breaking food safety rules, the agency’s first course of action after warning or citing them is to educate the offender about what’s required to operate again in the future.
“We just make sure that you’re getting your food from an appropriate source, that you’re handling it correctly, that you have basic sanitation protections, refrigeration, … things to make people have kind of peace of mind when they eat at those facilities that they’re getting safe food,” Seifert said. “We’re very sensitive to make sure that somebody’s fluent in Spanish out there because obviously we do run into many vendors that are limited in English speaking.”
But dealing with repeat offenders, namely those who don’t show interest in complying after multiple interactions with EHS, Seifert said, is a tougher nut to crack.
“We have local vendors who are typically trying to do things right and get permits and go through the process. But it was quickly found that some people could kind of exploit that system,” Seifert said, “and have pop-up sidewalk vending and these tents on the side of the road, … operating outside of the food safety system, [without] those protections for public health in place.”
Santa Barbara County 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann said the majority of complaints her office received in 2024 were about unpermitted food pop-ups in the Santa Ynez Valley.
She described this trend as an unintended consequence of laws California passed in 2018 to decriminalize street vending. Now the county is struggling to enforce against vendors who violate public health and safety codes.
“It’s hard to get some kind of meaningful penalty that would deter the behavior,” said Hartmann, who described the scenario as a game of Whac-A-Mole.
“That’s kind of the game at this point,” she said.
VARSITY HUES: Across the street from Santa Ynez High School during a Dec. 4 soccer match, a mobile taco vendor set up shop on the corner of Refugio Road and Highway 246—a corner Santa Barbara County officials have identified as a hot spot for unpermitted food sellers.
PHOTO BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
ORDER UP: Patrons of a Mexican food pop-up in north Santa Maria had tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and other menu items to pick from one evening in early December.
PHOTO BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Boiling contention
When EHS issues an administrative citation—the maximum penalty California allows health departments to slap unpermitted sidewalk vendors with outside of confiscating their products—the vendor in question isn’t obligated to give out information about themself or their business.
“If we don’t have a name or address where the fine can be issued to, then there’s no way to follow up on issuing a fine from that,” EHS Director Jason Johnston told the Sun “The administrative fine does increase as the violations increase. But again, if you can’t even issue that administrative fine or follow up on it, then it doesn’t really change anything.”
During the summer of 2024, a taco vendor with a canopy and portable compact kitchen on the corner of Highway 246 and Refugio Road in Santa Ynez packed up and left after being cited by EHS for operating without a health permit and without hand washing and utensil washing stations.
Less than two hours later, the vendor returned to the same spot and started selling food again, which resulted in a second citation. At the bottom of both citations, “refused to sign” was handwritten, while the lines that follow “business owner address” were marked as “not provided.”
Incidents like this are common, according to Santa Ynez resident Tracy Beard, who lives not far from that corner. Upholding food safety regulations is just one of the reasons she believes in keeping a vigilant eye on Highway 246’s food pop-ups.
“I turn on Refugio every day—a left-hand turn at the high school to go to my home from Solvang—and I see it every evening,” Beard said about the taco stand, which she described as having operated at least three nights a week on the same corner in Santa Ynez for the past two years.
“It is there every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, at 5:30 [p.m.] until midnight,” Beard said. “You’re eating food from people who have no ability to wash their hands after defecating. And I hate to say it like that, but it’s very simple.”
going, all these pop-ups started,” said Beard, who described the unpermitted canopy vendor down the street from Highway Tacos as unfairly competing with Miranda’s business.
“Cesar is being penalized for … being a good business owner and following every rule,” Beard said.
Supervisor Hartmann’s Chief of Staff Gina Fischer told the Sun that Miranda was among the local restaurant and food truck owners who contacted Hartmann’s office about Highway 246’s unpermitted pop-up trend.
“He had just got his [health] permit when this activity started happening,” Fischer said. “It’s almost across the board Latino businesses that have been contacting us for relief because of the unfair competition.”
Buying dinner or late-night grub from the unpermitted corner pop-up is especially convenient for those who attend sports events at Santa Ynez High School, as the vendor can usually be found in a gravel lot directly across the street from the campus on game nights, including soccer games scheduled for Thursday and Friday evenings this winter.
“It’s unfortunate because I think sometimes the public doesn’t understand the risk they’re taking,” County Health Deputy Director Seifert told the Sun.
Without a recent health scare or spike in food-induced hospitalizations to point to, Seifert said he’s experienced interacting with customers of unpermitted vendors who become upset with EHS during inspections.
“We’re not saying don’t enjoy street food, but just know where it’s coming from. … If they don’t have basic protections like hand washing or refrigeration, you’re really taking a risk,” Seifert said. “Foodborne illnesses are not a fun thing to deal with. … Being exposed to salmonella is not something to mess with.
enforcement action of its own thanks to section 731 of the Streets and Highways Code. The law applies to vehicles or structures parked or placed, respectively, within any state highway for the purpose of selling something. Deemed a public nuisance, these vehicles or structures—such as the Highway 246 vendor’s white van and canopy tent—are subject to immediate removal by the CHP.
“Currently, we have only issued warnings to these vendors. When issuing warnings, officers will physically wait and observe the vendor leave the location,” Ferguson said. “We are currently researching the legality of the impoundment of the vehicles and equipment. Ultimately, we would like voluntary compliance from the vendor before those actions take place.”
Hartmann’s office is also working to formalize a task force to help city agencies coordinate with EHS on code enforcement actions.
In March, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted in favor of Hartmann’s proposal, which is set to return before the board in early 2026 with recommendations on the different agencies and stakeholders across the county that should be included.
Santa Maria’s Code Enforcement Division will be among them. Like EHS officials, Santa Maria Code Enforcement Manager Dawn Palacios remembers noticing the rise in unpermitted sidewalk vendors following Senate Bill 946’s passage in 2018.
“That’s when we noticed them popping up and hearing more about them,” said Palacios, who’s worked for the city since 2012. “You would have your occasional hot dog stands here and there, but before [2018] I had never seen, within the city, these pop-up taco stands.”
Both Beard’s leadership role with the Solvang Chamber of Commerce and advisory role with the Economic Development Collaborative add extra layers to her beef with the mobile vendor.
In her view, the pop-up in question has shown other businesses that an unpermitted operation can make a profit in the Santa Ynez Valley without facing enforceable consequences from county authorities, Beard said.
“It encourages bad behavior,” Beard said, “and makes business owners, … very leery of government entities.”
One of Beard’s small business clients through the Economic Development Collaborative is Cesar Miranda, who debuted Highway Tacos in 2024. The permitted mobile Mexican food vendor mainly parks at 3145 E. Highway 246.
“Right about the time he got this up and
“The more mild foodborne illnesses may not hospitalize somebody. They may not need to go to the doctor,” he added, “but, … they end up vomiting all night long, and it doesn’t get reported.”
Tag team
Hartmann’s office partnered with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) this year to work toward alleviating the issue along Highway 246.
“Having a collective partnership is crucial to public safety, and we are grateful to her and her team,” Buellton Area CHP Lt. James Ferguson told the Sun via email. “The Buellton area is committed to working with our community partners and county leaders on this issue.”
While EHS has jurisdiction on issuing food safety violations tied to unpermitted vendors reported on Highway 246, CHP can take
In late 2024, Palacios was one of several speakers at a Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) hearing who voiced support for Hartmann’s call to improve coordination between county agencies on food safety enforcement.
Efren Alvarez-Ramos, CEO of local Mexican restaurant chain Efren’s, also spoke at the hearing.
“Personally I’m a little divided on the subject we have today because my father was someone who used to street vend, way before we had a restaurant,” Alvarez-Ramos said at the SBCAG meeting in October 2024.
“If it wasn’t for that, we would never have the business. But ever since we started the restaurant, we have to abide by all the laws that the Health Department puts in front of us,” he said, “but it’s to prevent all the stuff that I didn’t know was happening right now, … all the people where you don’t know where the food is coming from.”
Getting to the root of where some unpermitted mobile vendors from outside of Santa Barbara County are coming from and coordinating with agencies around the state is something County Health Deputy Director Seifert hopes to explore once the task force comes to fruition.
“There’s certainly participants in this process to try to explore how we can coordinate, how we can share information with and cooperate with other counties,” Seifert said.
Another item tied to the task force initiative is a proposal to refresh some of Santa Barbara County’s codes regarding sidewalks and sidewalk use.
“When they move around the corner from 246 onto Refugio [Road], there’s no sidewalk. So do they have a right to set up where there’s no sidewalk if our ordinance specifies that you can only do this on a sidewalk?” Supervisor Hartmann told the Sun. “They’re allowed to do certain things on sidewalks for example.
“But how do you define a sidewalk? … There’s ways to define sidewalks that exclude a lot of areas [with] small definitional changes, trying to refine to the best that we can.” m
MEAT THE PRESS: Under an outdoor canopy, a sidewalk vendor scoops carne asada onto a tortilla while making a quesadilla for a hungry customer in Santa Maria.
PHOTO BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
PRICKLY PATTERN: In 2024, the majority of messages Santa Barbara County 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann received from her constituents expressed concern about unpermitted food pop-ups in the Santa Ynez Valley.
FILE PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM
A new hive
The Silly Bee and other small businesses set out to reinvigorate Lompoc
BY MADISON WHITE
Danny Diaz is focused on bringing Old Town Lompoc back to life. When he moved there a year and a half ago, he’d ask people what there is to do in town but got responses like, “There’s nothing to do here,” and, “Lompoc is boring.”
Since then, he’s grown to love Old Town and would like to see more foot traffic there, especially from the younger crowd. Diaz has already stirred up a buzz with his thrift store, The Silly Bee, and his collaboration with nearby businesses.
“If you go to big cities, they love to pay attention to their Old Town, the beginnings of where their city started,” Diaz said. “I felt that Lompoc could use that as well.”
can use for personal projects like printing designs on shirts and hats. After regular business hours, Diaz wants to turn The Silly Bee into a space for community gathering.
In his experience, there aren’t many places in Old Town for people to hang out at night besides bars. He envisions open mic nights for poetry and live music, book clubs, and “whatever people tell me they would like,” the owner added.
101 N. H St. in Lompoc. Call (805) 819-0310 for more information or join the hive on Instagram @sillybeethrift.
At The Silly Bee, customers can find used clothing, small pieces of furniture, and goods from local vendors. Once he gets comfortable running the store, Diaz wants to use the space as more than just a storefront, which celebrated its grand opening on Dec. 1.
“I didn’t expect the local support to be that extreme,” Diaz said. “People really want to help me, and people really like the message.”
He plans to incorporate a craft station that customers
“I’ll try to make that happen just so the community can have a place where they can go in Old Town,” Diaz said.
A network of small businesses has also formed in Lompoc with Diaz’s help. The Thrift Menu has a rack in his store, and Diaz is partnering with the gym, Awaken, for a clothing swap on Dec. 13. The three businesses are helping throw the event.
Send business and nonprofit information to spotlight@santamariasun.com.
“The way it works is somebody provides the spot where people can come in and enjoy the setting, and then sometimes another one provides the clothing or the products, and then somebody provides that promotion, does all the videos,” Diaz said.
Bella, Colette, Z, Cody, Maddie & Janae. Front Desk Reception: Linda, Addy, Analisa & MaryJane. To the Best Clients & Fur Babies, Thank you!
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“That’s how we work together.”
Next, he’s set out to make a scavenger hunt map with participating businesses in Old Town. He’ll post images of bees around the city, and when someone finds one, they’ll read about one of the businesses and maybe even receive a discount.
Ultimately, he wants to help other businesses and residents feel at home in Old Town, whether that’s advising new entrepreneurs or teaching English to Spanish speakers.
“We’re not just here to make a profit and move forward,” Diaz said. “We’re here to engage with people and teach and give.”
Highlights
• Head to Machado Plaza in Santa Maria on Dec. 13 for free festive activities for the whole family. The city’s annual holiday market will run
Christmas Candle Light Ceremony
Christmas Candle Light Ceremony Be The Light
Be The Light
Saturday, December 20, 4 pm
from 5 to 9 p.m. with a mini sledding hill, visits from Santa, handmade gifts by vendors, arts and crafts, and plenty of food. For $5 festivalgoers can take a holiday bus tour to see the winners of the Lights, Sights, and Holiday Nights contest. The Plaza is located at 224 W. Chapel St. in Santa Maria.
• Santa Barbara County is accepting donations for Toys for Tots, which will be delivered to local children through the Unity Shoppe. Donations should be new and unwrapped. Drop off toys by Dec. 17 in the lobby at the Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Building, located at 511 E. Lakeside Parkway. County fire stations also have drop-off boxes for donations. m
Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@ santamariasun.com.
Christmas Candle Light Ceremony
Unity of Santa Maria 1165 Stubblefi
Saturday, December 20, 4 pm Uni
Be The Light
Saturday, December 20, 4 pm
Unity of Santa Maria 1165 Stubblefield Road
& The Chapel of Light Singers
Featuring The One Mighty Light Choir & The Chapel of Light Singers
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BUZZING THROUGH TOWN: The Silly Bee thrift store recently opened in Lompoc. In the future, owner Danny Diaz wants to bring community events, like poetry and music nights, to the store.
Should Guadalupe waive its LeRoy Park fees for the new farmers market?
37.5% Maybe, if it isn’t a drain on city resources.
37.5% Yes, and it should be more than a six-month contract.
25% Yes! The market will be a boon for the whole city.
0% No! That’s $500 a week that the city would be losing.
This isn’t Compton
Lompoc citizens deserve trustworthy leaders
BY RON FINK
Political history was made during the public comment period at the Lompoc City Council meeting on Dec. 2. It wasn’t the kind of history any city would be proud of.
8 Votes
Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.
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I have been commenting on the political scene in Lompoc for more than three decades in various publications. During this time, there have been numerous incidents of political miscalculation, some questionable actions taken by council members, some fines issued by the Fair Political Practices Commission, and many rumors of backdoor deals.
But I have never witnessed three elected officials accused of wrongdoing by the public during a council meeting or a council member being charged with eight felonies by the district attorney for either crimes committed in office or as part of their private business dealings.
A couple of weeks ago, a Santa Maria Sun headline read, “Santa Barbara County District Attorney charges Lompoc council member with eight felonies” (Nov. 27); the same report appeared in many other local publications. As I continued reading, it turned out to be newly elected Steve Bridge who represents my area of town—could the eight felony allegations be true?
Other charges included, according to the DA complaint, an “intent to defraud, falsely make, alter, forge and counterfeit, utter, publish, pass and attempt to offer to pass, as true and genuine” several other documents that contained false information.
While everyone is entitled to a fair trial and all are considered innocent until they are found guilty, we can’t avoid noting that all these charges were based on public records filed by Mr. Bridge.
According to a Dec. 3 report by KSBY, at the end of the council meeting Bridge said he planned to plead not guilty saying, “I will be appearing in court on Dec. 4, 2025, and entering a ‘not guilty’ plea to all charges because I have not committed any crime.
If found guilty of these charges it won’t help make ‘Lompoc a city we can all be proud of’ as [Steve Bridge] proclaimed was his goal in his voter guide comments.
Noozhawk reported that “Bridge allegedly committed grand theft of personal property from the city of Lompoc in March 2024 (in the amount of $5,076.66) and again in March 2025 (in the amount of $4,917), according to the criminal complaint,” (“Colleague Urges Lompoc Councilman Steve Bridge to Resign Amid Criminal Charges,” Nov. 24).
Speak up! Send us your views and
It will take several months to sort out all of Councilmember Bridge’s issues in court, but if found guilty of these charges it won’t help make “Lompoc a city we can all be proud of” as he proclaimed was his goal in his voter guide comments.
One member of the public stated that Bridge is a “dues paying member” of the Democrat Club and suggested that he resign from office to help restore confidence in the City Council and run for election again if found innocent. This was a reasonable request.
If he remains in office, and the mayor doesn’t quit playing vigilante, we are left with a City Council that has been damaged by these allegations. In the current climate of divisive politics, those kinds of allegations tend to underscore voters’ mistrust of elected officials, even if they personally weren’t associated with the alleged bad conduct.
I’m confident that through the court process, I will be found not guilty,” (“Lompoc City Council member addresses felony charges amid community backlash”).
During the Dec. 2 meeting, another complaint was lodged against Mayor Jim Mosby. He was filmed confronting a street vendor while in camouflage clothing for an alleged permit violation. The mayor’s primary function is to facilitate public meetings of the council, represent the city at various regional meetings, and provide directions to the city staff. They don’t include code enforcement; this matter is best left to the professionals on city staff.
The last complaint was against Councilman Jeremy Ball, who was accused of accepting a gift greater than allowed by the Fair Political Practices Commission. This issue is being addressed by the commission.
Lompoc needs reliable, law-abiding leadership, otherwise we will always be considered “the armpit of the county,” as Congressman Carbajal has said in the past. This isn’t Compton: The citizens of Lompoc deserve leaders they can trust. m
Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.
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Life is serious, but we can solve more problems with humor
We seem to have forgotten something important in our public life. The world is serious, but it is also absurd. We are surrounded by real problems, real responsibilities, and real consequences. Yet somewhere along the way we convinced ourselves that the only respectable way to face them is with a furrowed brow and a lecture. It is not working. Humor reaches people in a way moral sermons never will. Laughter disarms. It opens the door to honest conversation. It creates the kind of human connection that facts alone cannot achieve. We live in a culture that is too earnest for its own good. Everything becomes a crisis, a battlefield, or a reason to scold. It is no wonder people tune out. The human mind can only take so much proclamation before it shuts down. George Carlin understood this better than anyone. Give people a moment of levity and the whole room relaxes. Suddenly they listen. They might even think!
Life is serious. It demands effort and responsibility. That is exactly why joy matters. Joy is not the opposite of seriousness. It is the proof that life is still worth caring about. Emma Goldman captured this perfectly when she proclaimed that “if I can’t dance, I don’t want to be part of your revolution.” She understood something basic. A movement that forgets how to laugh is a movement that forgets why it exists. So let us keep perspective. Let us argue hard when it matters and refuse to take ourselves too seriously in the process. Let us remember that humor is not trivial. It is a tool for clarity, humility, and human connection. If we want to reach people, we should meet them where they live. And people live in the space between struggle and laughter.
Are unpermitted food vendors actually a problem in Santa Barbara County or has the beef against one stall in Santa Ynez become the loud squeaky Karen that’s garnered all of 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann’s attention?
She’s made allegations about human trafficking tied to roadside vendors in the county. She’s made it sound like they’re just lined up and down Highway 246— businesses from Los Angeles sending vanloads of unrefrigerated food up to the county, just waiting to make patrons sick. So far, the proof is not in the pudding. Her “task force” aims to fix the issue, but what is the issue exactly?
Her office points to a stall on Highway 246 as an example of broader issues.
Unpermitted without proper handwashing stations, it sells street meat across the highway from Santa Ynez Union Valley High School during soccer and football games. Environmental Health Services has cited the stand, and it’s packed up and left. But, it just sets up again.
The state, Hartmann said, has tied the county’s hands. Enforcement is toothless. And the Solvang Chamber of Commerce complains about this taco stand (and possibly others) constantly, especially since it’s competing with other vendors who are actually permitted!
Chamber Executive Director Tracy Beard was very concerned about a lack of handwashing stations. She said vendors are “defecating” with nowhere to wash their hands.
I’m so confused. Are they just pooping on the side of the road? Sounds fishy.
OK, permitting is important. Food should also abide by safety regulations. No one needs to get a foodborne illness here.
But really, are unpermitted food spots
pervasive in Santa Ynez?
I couldn’t tell you. But apparently the word is out that this is an issue and some Lompoc public officials (well, one person) have taken it upon themselves to do something about it!
Mayor Jim Mosby approached a roadside stand in Lompoc and started asking them questions that someone from Environmental Health might: “Where’s the refrigeration? What are your temperatures? You have no health permit.” I’m so confused. Does he work for code enforcement or the county Health Department? Nope.
“This is not legal,” he told the sidewalk vendors.
The whole thing went viral thanks to video of the incident (there’s always video) posted on the TikTok (of course)— and people called Mosby a racist, which could be true, but don’t worry, he did say in the video that he likes Mexican food. Oh, good! Not a good look, bro. Not your job, Mosby. This little incident came in the wake of the felony and misdemeanor charges filed against City Councilmember Steve Bridge for alleged forgery and embezzlement. And requests from residents and fellow Councilmember Jeremy Ball asking Bridge to step down. Bridge, of course, ain’t doing that. And the other three council members, including Mosby, were mum on the issue. Except Mosby did say something about how the council wasn’t wearing any black robes.
Who are they to judge, you know?
Interesting. So, Mosby’s cool with judging sidewalk vendors selling Mexican food, but not cool with judging a fellow elected official who’s charged with doing shady things.
Not a good look. m
The Canary always looks good. Send mirrors to canary@santamariasun.com.
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Hot Stuff
OPPOSITES ATTRACT
Reena Howmiller’s artist exhibit and reception
on
Dec. 11, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Flying Goat Cellars in Lompoc. Visitors can view Reena’s exhibit of striking, bold paintings that explore
and
ARTS
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. (805) 928-7799. Kleindancesarts.com. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria. CASUAL CRAFTERNOON: ART COLLAGE ON CANVAS Create your own unique collage on canvas using magazines, newspaper, ephemera, stickers, and more! All materials will be provided. Registration is required. This class is for ages 18 and older. Dec. 12 3-4:30 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
DANCE CLASSES There are weekly dance classes, from ages 2 to adult, at KleinDance Arts . 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. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, (805) 937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.
PCPA PRESENTS DISNEY’S FROZENTHE BROADWAY MUSICAL For the first time in forever, Disney’s Frozen comes to life on the PCPA stage! The worldwide Broadway sensation, based on the Academy Award-winning animated film, brings dazzling life to the beloved story of two royal sisters bound by love, challenged by secrets, and destined to discover the power of being true to themselves. Through Dec. 21 $25. (805) 922-8313. pcpa.org. PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria.
identity through
PCPA YOUTH & COMMUNITY ARTS PRESENTS EL ERMITAÑO PCPA is delighted to announce the return of Pastorela – El Ermitaño, the beloved holiday production that celebrates the richness of Mexican cultural tradition. Don’t miss this vibrant 60-minute play in Spanish, presented in partnership with Tierra Blanca Arts Center. Dec. 12 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 13, 11 a.m. & 3 p.m. (805) 922-8313. PCPA.org. PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria. VALLEY ART GALLERY: ROTATING DISPLAYS Featured artists of Santa Maria’s Valley Art Gallery display their works at the airport. Check website for details on monthly exhibits and full list of the gallery’s artists. valleygallery.org. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY ART WORKSHOP - BLOCK PRINT HOLIDAY CARDS Join CalNAM and local artist Angelina LaPointe for an art workshop planning, carving, and hand-printing a linoleum block print holiday cards. Dec. 14 12:30-4:30 p.m. $65. calnatureartmuseum.org/news/holidayblock-prints-2025. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang. WILD IN CALIFORNIA SOLO EXHIBITION
See the exhibition Wild in California, a solo exhibition by Museum Founder, conservation advocate, and artist Patti Jacquemain. A array of woodcut prints and mosaics will be showcased, highlighting the bioregions and species that make up California’s rich biodiversity. Through Feb. 23, 2026 calnatureartmuseum.org/news/ wild-in-california-2025. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
A COMMEDIA CHRISTMAS CAROL In this faithful adaptation of the Charles Dickens
colors, and chat with her over wine and snacks. Visit flyinggoatcellars.com additional information.
classic, a traveling troupe of Commedia Del Arte players recreate the Victorian World of “A Christmas Carol”. Dec. 19 7:30-8:45 p.m., Dec. 20, 7:30-8:45 p.m. and Dec. 21 2-3:15 p.m. $10. Stone Pine Hall, 210 South H St., Lompoc, (805) 736-3888, lompocmuseum.org/pine.php.
REENA HOWMILLER ARTIST EXHIBIT & RECEPTION Join for a reception to celebrate Reena Howmiller and her exhibit of big, bold, bright colorful paintings. Mmeet Reena and view her artwork over wine and snacks. Dec. 11, 4-6 p.m. flyinggoatcellars.com/blogs/news/ reena-howmiller. Flying Goat Cellars, 1520 Chestnut Court, Lompoc, (805) 757-6649.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
AGHS THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS: ALICE BY HEART Alice by Heart is a touching musical inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Dec. 11 7-8:30 p.m., Dec. 12 7-8:30 p.m. and Dec. 13 7-8:30 p.m. $23.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter. org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
DATA-TRANSFER SHORT INDIE FILM
PREMIERE Puffers of Pismo is hosting premiere for “data-transfer”, an indie short film by SLO cast and crew that explores love in the year 2100. Dec. 17 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 270-9221. Puffers of Pismo, 781 Price St., Pismo Beach, puffersofpismo.com.
AN IRISH CHRISTMAS An Irish Christmas brings dazzling dance, beloved carols, and pure holiday joy—featuring stars from Riverdance and seen nationwide on PBS. Be Irish this Christmas! Dec. 19 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 20, 2 p.m. $32-$60, Premium $70. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/an-irishchristmas/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
PULSE STUDIO OF THE ARTS PRESENTS: THE BEAT BEGINS This debut performance
marks the first-ever dance show by Pulse Studio of the Arts — a showcase of hard work, dedication, and love for movement. Dec. 18, 7 p.m. $35. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
THE STUDIO OF PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS: TIS THE SEASON Tis the Season is an annual holiday extravaganza with special guest appearances, dancing, singing, and everything needed to get in the spirit! This is a family-friendly event. Dec. 13 1-2:45 & 6-7:45 p.m. $28.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
VILLAGE CREATIVE PRESENTS:
CHRISTMAS CONCERT 2025 Village
Creative is a local creative arts studio based in the charming village of Arroyo Grande. Dec. 20, 3-4 & 5-6 p.m. $15. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA
Check the venue’s calendar for storytelling workshops, lectures, movie nights, and discussions held on a periodic basis. ongoing thelavra.org/home. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
“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.
ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES
Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus
exposure to Los Angeles talent agents. All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing (805) 8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
CHICANOS AT CAL POLY: WHO WE ARE AND HOW WE SHOW UP This exhibition honors the history of Chicane students at Cal Poly, focusing on their expressions of cultural identity while recognizing the challenges of placemaking. MondaysFridays, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. through Dec. 12 Free. (805) 756-2305. library.calpoly.edu/ events/chicanos-cal-poly. Cal Poly, 1 Grand Ave., 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.
CREATIVITY DAYS WITH THE SILK ARTISTS OF CALIFORNIA CENTRAL
COAST An opportunity to work on your own projects and materials while picking up new skills among friends. Note: this event is held mostly every third Monday (attendees are asked to call or email to confirm ahead of time). Third Monday of every month $5; first session free. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 747-4200.
DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece. Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed,
and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP: LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
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.
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.
THE NUTCRACKER Civic Ballet presents its 48th season of Lorilee Silvaggio’s The Nutcracker. Don’t miss this holiday tradition, performed live with OperaSLO’s Grande Orchestra. Dec. 12 7 p.m., Dec. 13 , 2 & 7 p.m. and Dec. 14 2 p.m. $32-$84. (805) 544-1230. Cal Poly Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. PAINT A PREMADE POTTERY PIECE! Drop into the studio to pick out and paint a premade piece! There is fun for all ages, and prices are based upon size. Mondays, Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2-7:30 p.m. $30$75. app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule. php?owner=22676824&appointmentTy pe=35974477. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age. Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF REENA
—Angie Stevens
A Child Who Reads Will Be an Adult Who Thinks.
It has been 43 years since the Friends of the Santa Maria Public Library (Friends of the SMPL) was established as a non-profit 501c3 organization. The founding members established a used book store in 1983, which was located within the old Santa Maria Library. In 2018, that book store moved out of the new Santa Maria Library, and eventually began renting a space in the Santa Maria Town Center East.
The Friends of SMPL named their new store The Library Shop. The establishment of our Instagram and Facebook pages at Friends of the SMPL—The Library Shop along with a website at https://www. fsmpl.org has helped us in getting our information out to the public. You can make one-time donations, become a member of the Friends, email us, and become a sustaining supporter of the Library Shop. This advertisement is brought to you by:
Promoting Literacy
The Friends of the Santa Maria Public Library’s mission is to promote reading and the growth and development of the Santa Maria Public Library.
How are we able to do this? The Friends raise funds for materials, programs and services that would otherwise not be provided. We also sponsor activities that encourage reading in our community.
The friends do this by inspiring interest and enthusiasm for providing financial support. We invite private individuals, businesses, foundations, and other grant-giving organizations to join us. Donations and sponsorships go to support the mission of the Friends of and general program and administrative purposes. Members, volunteers, and other community business supporters cooperate with us in multiple ways, including operating a used bookstore. We spread the word and advocate for the Santa Maria Public Library by participating in community events. We hand out free books at these events including those in Spanish.
In addition to the Library Shop we hold fundraisers throughout the year. To name a few: Seasonally themed Quarterly Book Sales within the Library Shop, BBQ meals, Mahjongg at the Library, and of course, our biggest
fundraiser, The Annual Painted Chair Raffle. In 2025 we have been able to provide over $35,000 dollars for the The Friends of the Santa Maria Public Library. Along with our fundraising we have received grants from The Woods Family Foundation and the Altrusa International, Santa Maria, Golden Valley and Central Coast.
Board presenting check to Library Director, Dawn Jackson.
Supporting the Love of Reading
Our community supports the Friends’ mission of reading by donating books, buying books, and providing donations to our used bookstore, The Library Shop. Our community and businesses have provided monthly sustaining donations as well.
There are hearts, minds and so very many helping hands. It is hard to explain the community that is found in this little space of a bookstore. Thank you to everyone who has had a hand in the Library Shop. You are appreciated more than you will ever know.
Monthly Library Shop Support donations can be made on their website’s Library Shop page at https://www.fsmpl.org
We have been able to have consistent hours of operation: Tuesday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
We could not do this without the 40 volunteers that have provided their time in providing customer service and sorting and pricing and shelving of donated materials throughout the year.
Just a few of our wonderful volunteers and “helper”.
Become a Part of the Friends of the Santa Maria Public Library
Join the Friends and help with our mission of promoting reading and the Library. All ages are welcome to be a member. We welcome one and all to support the Friends by sharing their time, energy and enthusiasm through participation in any of our community events or volunteering at the Library Shop.
• Become a member and encourage others to join and receive a free book every month up to $3 value (excluding children’s board books and newer published books).
• Donate books–we can pick them up!
• Shop in the Library Shop.
• Volunteer in the Library Shop or at special events.
• Join through our website at https://www.fsmpl.org or visit us at the Library Shop.
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
NAME:
ADDRESS:
COLBIE AND GAVIN
Colbie Caillat and Gavin DeGraw are set to perform live at Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez on Friday, Dec. 12, at 8 p.m. Hear the two celebrated singer-songwriters, as they perform holiday classics and their own greatest hits. Ticket prices range from $59 to $89. Purchase tickets and get additional details at chumashcasino.com.
—A.S.
STEPPIN’ UP TO THE MIC: CONTRA DANCE CALLING WORKSHOP SERIES
Learn to lead contra dances from the best callers across California. Year-long workshop series for new and aspiring contra dance callers, with opportunities to call. Dec. 13 1-3 p.m. $120. cccds.org/ stepup. Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt. org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.
FESTIVAL OF TREES HOSTED BY ALTRUSA OF THE CENTRAL COAST The Festival of Trees is back. Come and see the trees and buy raffle tickets for $1. Dec. 13
11 a.m.-8 p.m. Santa Maria Town Center, 142 Town Center East, Santa Maria.
FREE YOUTHWELL PARENT SUPPORT
GROUPS- FAMILY TOOLS+ For parents and caregivers of youth, ages 5 to 18, with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, Tourette’s, and uniquelywired brains. Thursdays, 12-1:30 p.m. through Dec. 19 Free. (805) 770-1930. SBCC Wake Center, 300 N Turnpike, Santa Barbara.
GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing (805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org.
Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.
IN PERSON- TEENWELL SUPPORT
GROUP- YOUTHWELL Join our support group for incoming 9th to 12th graders, where you’ll learn valuable skills to regulate emotions, tolerate stress, and improve relationships. Mondays, 5-6:15 p.m. through Dec. 16 Free. (805) 500-3131. openminds.clinic/group. Open Minds, 1919 State St., Santa Barbara.
OAK FOLK’S FIRST ANNUAL HOLIDAY
CREATIVE MARKET Join for our Holiday Creative Market! Makers are welcome— candles, art, treats, jewelry, more. There are limited tables. Expect cozy vibes and festive fun. Dec. 21 12-3 p.m. $22. (805) 270-3278. oakfolkstudio.com. Oak Folk Studio, 4850 South Bradley Road, Suite B, Santa Maria.
SANTA MARIA COIN CLUB: MONTHLY
MEETING Coin collectors of all ages invited. Bring coins for free appraisals. Third Wednesday of every month, 7 p.m. Yearly membership: $20-$25. (805) 9373158. Cornerstone Church, 1026 E. Sierra Madre Ave., Santa Maria.
SANTA MARIA TOASTMASTERS Develop your public speaking skills at this club meeting. Third Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. (805) 570-0620. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.
VALLEY READS BOOK CLUB The book selection for December is Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. Please call the Reference desk at the number provided to register. Dec. 13 2-3 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
BIG BOOK SALE Browse from lots of good titles at low prices at this event, sponsored by the Friends of the Buellton Library. All proceeds go to support the Buellton Library. Dec. 13 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Buellton Library, 202 Dairyland Rd, Buellton, (805) 688-3115, goletavalleylibrary.org/about/ santa-ynez-valley-libraries.
SOLVANG JULEFEST Solvang Julefest is a month of lights, celebratory happenings, and holiday cheer. There will be a tree lighting ceremony, parade, Santa visits, outdoor Christmas markets, New Year’s Eve event, and more! Through Jan. 4, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. (805) 465-7298. solvangusa.com. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
SOLVANG JULEFEST LIGHT, MUSIC & SNOW SHOWS Every night during Solvang Julefest, Solvang Park will sparkle with a 10-minute light and music display on the hour, ending with a “snow” flurry! Through Jan. 4, 5-9:15 p.m. (805) 465-7298. solvangusa.com/things-to-do/solvangjulefest. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.
SOLVANG JULEFEST MAKER’S MARKETS Fashioned after European night markets, the Julefest Maker’s Markets will feature local artisans, crafters, and food vendors offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, seasonal treats, and more. Dec. 17 3-7 p.m. (805) 465-7298. solvangusa.com/ things-to-do/solvang-julefest. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing (805) 619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET AND BOOK
SIGNING Get ready for the biggest holiday shopping day of the season and join at the Oceano Depot. Dec. 13 , 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. vaco805.org/events. Kim Rose, 1340 Scott Lee Dr, Oceano, (916) 798-6809.
MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 dropin; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52
Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological. Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. (805) 547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index. php/chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.
NIPOMO SENIOR CENTER MEMBERSHIP
SIGN-UP & POTLUCK Bring a dish to share and join for a potluck, along with general meeting updates and local informative guest speakers. Third Wednesday of every month, 12:30-2 p.m. (805) 929-1615. nipomoseniorcenter.org. Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St, Nipomo.
POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS
A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. (805) 904-6615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.
TREE LIGHTING AND SNOW EVENT Enjoy the season at the Tree Lighting and Snow Event! There will be twenty tons of snow, Santa Tree Lighting, Bouncetown, free S’mores, a horse carriage ride, and more. Dec. 14 , 5-7 p.m. Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/events. Elm Street Park, 1221 Ash St., Arroyo Grande.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
30-DAY BREATH AND RESET JOURNEY FOR WOMEN Wired at night, drained all day? Reset your body in 30 days. Focus on breath practices to calm stress, sleep deeply, and restore lasting energy. Registration is required. Tuesdays, 6:307:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody.com. Live Webinar, online, SLO County. CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays,
Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.
CENTRAL COAST POLYAMORY Hosting a discussion group featuring different topics relating to ethical non-monogamy every month. Third Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
A CHRISTMAS STORY Packed with holiday mischief, childhood dreams, and nostalgic charm, A Christmas Story captures the magic of the season with wit, warmth, and plenty of laughs. Saturdays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m., Sundays, 2-4 p.m., Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m., Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., Fridays, 7-9 p.m. and Dec. 21 , 7-9 p.m. through Dec. 19 $28-$47. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/ shows/a-christmas-story-2025/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.
DISCO CHRISTMAS - CENTRAL COAST
FOLLIES PRESENTS Head to the variety show, benefitting SLO Food Bank. Dec. 14 3 p.m. $30. my805tix.com. Studio de Myriam, 3563 Sueldo St., suite N, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-7433.
FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and importance to the development of this area. Tours are led by docents and meet in front of the church Sundays, 2:30 p.m. and Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15 p.m. Free. (805) 550-7713. missionslodocents.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
GALA PRIDE AND DIVERSITY CENTER
BOARD MEETING (VIA ZOOM) Monthly meeting of the Gala Pride and Diversity Center Board of Directors. Meets virtually via Zoom and is open to members of the public. Visit galacc.org/events to fill out the form to request meeting access. Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. No admission fee. galacc.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
HANDSPRINGS AND AERIALS
TUMBLING CLINIC Build your skills at our Handsprings and Aerials Clinic! Even beginners can start working on the fundamentals of these Intermediate skills. All levels welcome. Geared towards ages 5 to 17 years. Dec. 13, 1-3 p.m. $25/ 1st child, +$10 per additional sibling.. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/saturdayevent-clinics. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT
GROUP A safe place to share feelings of depression with those who suffer and those who have recovered to a full, healthy outlook on life. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
HOLIDAYS AT THE JACK HOUSE Step into the Holidays! Take a free guided tour of the Jack House & Gardens to see this Victorian gem, in all its holiday splendor. Dec. 14 1-4 p.m. and Dec. 21 , 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 781-7305. slocity.org/ JackHouse. The Jack House, 536 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.
KIDS’ PARTY PARADISE: WINTER KINGDOM Drop your kiddos off at Kids’ Party Paradise for pizza, movie, and gymnastics fun while you get an evening off! For ages 4 to 13 years; no experience is necessary. Dec. 13 , 5-9:30 p.m. $50/ 1 child, $70/ 2+ siblings. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/kidsparty-paradise. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A pro-recovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. Third Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.
SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets at the SLO Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors are welcome. Third Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 540-9484, slocity.org/seniors.
SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+
AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN
CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land 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.
NATURE LIGHTS SLO Botanical Garden’s holiday tradition, Nature Lights, features magical displays, live music, local chefs, and an artists’ market. Fridays and Saturdays, 5-8 p.m., through Dec. 27 $18-$28. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org/ naturelights/. San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd, San Luis Obispo.
PLUG-IN TO LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION Get inspired by local action, connect with others, and discover more ways to get involved with the SLO Climate Coalition. Attend virtually or in-person. Sustainable snacks and childcare will be provided. Third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. Ludwick Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, San Luis Obispo.
Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc. org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A good core group of friends who gather to discuss topics we love/ care about from movies, outings, music, or being new to the area. We come from all walks of life and most importantly support each other. Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. sloqueer.groups. io/g/lezbfriends. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
CAMBRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET
Celebrate the 14th Annual Cambria Christmas Market, which opens on Nov. 28, and goes until Dec. 31. The market is closed on Dec. 24, and 25. More information is available at the link. Through Dec. 31, 5-9 p.m. $27-$45. (800) 966-6490. cambriachristmasmarket.com/. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.
CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, (805) 772-2840, sttimothymorrobay.org/.
WHIMSICAL WINTER WONDERLAND
Step into the Whimsical Winter Wonderland at Cambria Nursery—where the magic of the season comes to life through light, design, and imagination. Through Jan. 15, 2026 (805) 927-4747. cambrianursery.com/events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.
FOOD & DRINK
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/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 TRUCK FRIDAY Head to Food Truck
Friday, with wine bottle specials and local food trucks every Friday at the Wine Stone Inn. Fridays, 4-9 p.m. through April 24 Free. (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO
Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays (805) 922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE
INN Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.
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.
TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8
p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 3323532, winestoneinn.com/.
TAP THURSDAY Head to Tap Thursdays at the Wine Stone Inn every week, featuring $5 draft beers and $5 Cava’s. Thursdays, 3-9 p.m. through April 16 Free. (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.
THURSDAY EVENING BAR
TAKEOVER Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES
Check Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign. com/orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.
WINE BINGO WEDNESDAYS
Join Wine Bingo Wednesday at the Wine Stone Inn –– the original bingo night in Old Orcutt. The event will occur weekly with the purchase of an adult beverage. Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. through April 29 (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO
SONG AND DANCE
Celebrate the holiday season with Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico, at the Performing Arts Center in SLO on Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy Mariachi Garibaldi and Ballet Folklórico del Rio Grande, showcasing vibrant traditions through joyful music, colorful dance, and festive storytelling. Tickets are $35 to $59. Head to calpolyarts.org for more information.
—A.S.
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. ongoing (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/ lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.
SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
CHRISTMAS MATTERS
TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASS New topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrientdense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home. Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.
com/classes/. 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) 8016627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.
SANTA’S PALO MESA PIZZA PARTY Enjoy delicious, award winning pizza generously provided by Palo Mesa Pizza. Dec. 14 1-2 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. Historical Society Heritage Garden, 126 S. Mason St., Arroyo Grande.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BRUNCH IS BACK Celebrate the second Sunday of the month with brunch. Enjoy a two-hour cruise on the waterfront. Features fresh coffee, pastries, and more. Second Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $50. (805) 772-2128. chabliscruises.com. Chablis Cruises, 1205 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.
MUSIC
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
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.
HARMONY FOR THE HOLIDAYS Join for a free a cappella holiday music performance for all ages. Dec. 20 7-8:30 p.m. Free. (805)736-7572. ccharmony.org. Vida Church, 700 N Curryer Street, 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
HOLIDAY CAROLERS Head to downtown Solvang on Saturdays leading up to Christmas for the performances of the Christmas Matters Holiday Carolers. These talented singers fill the air with joyful holiday tunes as they roam the quaint Danish downtown village of Solvang. Dec. 13 5-8 p.m. and Dec. 20 5-8 p.m. solvangusa.com/solvang-eventscalendar/. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
COLBIE CAILLAT AND GAVIN DEGRAW
LIVE Colbie Caillat and Gavin DeGraw are two celebrated singer-songwriters known for their distinctive voices, heartfelt songwriting, and chart-topping hits. Hear the duo perform live at Chumash Casino Resort. Dec. 12 8 p.m. $59-$89. chumashcasino.com/. Chumash Casino Resort, 3400 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez, (800) 248-6274.
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.
F r o m t h e f o o t l i g h t s t o t h e l o b b y , f r o m t h e v i l l a i n ’ s s n e e r t o t h e h e r o ’ s
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
CHRISTMAS MARIACHI FESTIVAL
FEATURING ESTRELLA DE MÉXICO
Enjoy an evening of Christmas posada, carols, songs, actors, folkloric ballet, and featuring the largest mariachi in the world! Dec. 14 6-8 p.m. $34-$55; Premium $65.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. RING IN THE SEASON CONCERT SERIES See the first chorale music concert in the Ring in the Season concert series with the Vocal Arts Ensemble. Tickets are available for purchase at the link. Dec. 11 7 p.m. $30. Trilogy at Monarch Dunes, 1645 Trilogy Pkwy, Nipomo.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
CAMPANA SOBRE CAMPANA: CHRISTMAS IN MEXICO! Celebrate Christmas in Mexico with Mariachi Garibaldi and Ballet Folklórico del Rio Grande, showcasing vibrant traditions through joyful music, colorful dance, and festive storytelling. Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts.org/20252026season/campana-sobre-campanachristmas-in-mexico. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. CHRISTMAS JAZZ VESPERS WITH THE DAVE BECKER QUARTET & KATHRYN LOOMIS The First Presbyterian Church of San Luis Obispo is pleased to present their 9th Annual Christmas Jazz Vespers. This concert will feature the Dave Becker Quartet with special guest Kathryn Loomis on vocals. All proceeds will benefit the SLO Noor Foundation Health Clinics. Dec. 14 , 7-9 p.m. $33.98. my805tix.com. First Presbyterian Church of San Luis Obispo, 981 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-5451. SOLEFFECT AT THE MARK Sōleffect’s dynamic 7-piece band brings uplifting originals and soulful spins on favorites— perfect for a night out in the heart of SLO. Dec. 13 , 7-10 p.m. Free. facebook.com/ events/2595229837497748/. The Mark Bar and Grill, 673 Higuera St., Sal Luis Obispo, (805) 439-4400.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
SERENADE AT THE BOAT PARADE Experience some holiday magic afloat! The Morro Bay White Caps with the SLO County Band will serenade the dazzling boat parade with festive melodies, providing spectacular community cheer. Dec. 13 , 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 459-9543. morrobaywhitecaps.com. Morro Bay S. T Pier, 1185 Embarcadero, Morro Bay. m
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6 / 8PM TICKETS START AT $50 FELIPE
FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 / 8PM
Micarelli:
Miossi
Concert with Scott Yoo
ARTS BRIEFS
Lompoc library organizes bilingual story times
Books and Bubbles is returning to Ryon Park in Lompoc on Dec. 19 at 10:30 a.m. The bilingual story time is geared toward toddlers and preschoolers, with games, singing, and bubbles.
The upcoming theme, pajama story time, is a first for the program, run by the Lompoc Public Library. Representatives from Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a nonprofit that provides beds for children, will join the event to share information about the organization’s services.
“Come in cozy jammies and get ready for some fun stories, movement, and bubbles,” library assistant Aubrey Hierholzer said in an email to the Sun
In 2023, the Charlotte’s Web Bookmobile launched the program as a five-week event, but after receiving requests from the community to continue, Books and Bubbles became a monthly bilingual story time. It allows families to check out materials from the bookmobile, too.
Next year, there are Books and Bubbles events scheduled for Jan. 23, Feb. 27, and March 27.
Ryon Park is located at 800 W. Ocean Ave. in Lompoc. Call the library with questions at (805) 877-8775.
Gallery Los Olivos artists participate in a communal exhibit
The annual group show at Gallery Los Olivos will be featured through January 2026. It’s an optional show for artists who are members of the gallery and will showcase a wide variety of work including photographs, paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
The show is called a Winter Celebration to encapsulate the diversity of media.
“We try to have a theme that allows interpretation by the artists themselves,” Patti Robbins, the gallery’s publicity chair, said in an email to the Sun
The gallery’s newest members, Holly Hungett and Hilda Freyre, entered work in the show, too. The gallery announced their addition in November.
Hungett is a plein-air painter who loves colors and shapes, often creating abstract forms in her work, according to her website. Freyre paints landscapes and seascapes, from which she draws inspiration.
Gallery Los Olivos is located at 2920 Grand Ave. It’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (805) 688-7517 for more information. m
The art in science
A nonprofit’s residency program merges creativity and nature
BY MADISON WHITE
Somewhere on the 1,000-acre Jalama Canyon Ranch, there comes a point when the oak canopy clears, giving way to manzanitas. Standing on a ridgeline among vegetation and rolling hills, the vista reveals the ocean in one direction and the Santa Ynez River in the other.
The scene at the Lompoc ranch is like a microcosm representing much of the state’s landscape. However, for artists like Angelina LaPointe, California’s beauty creates a conundrum. As much as she wants to be outdoors, she’s got to go inside and hunker down.
“When you’re a nature artist, that hits really hard because my process is very slow and labor intensive,” the block printer told the Sun. “What I’m celebrating is the landscape, but ironically I have to constantly choose between spending time outdoors and spending time in my studio making the work.”
This fall, it was a little easier for her to do both as she became the first official artist in residence at Jalama Canyon Ranch. The program is organized by the White Buffalo Land Trust, a Santa Barbara County nonprofit that supports land stewardship. The ranch owned by White Buffalo is a laboratory where managing livestock, preserving native species, and regenerative farming intersect.
Inviting artists to live and work at Jalama helps build long-lasting relationships between art, agriculture, and the community, explained Ana Smith, the nonprofit’s director of programs and engagement. Artists in residence are expected to attend events and classes at Jalama, engage with the public in collaborative workshops, and create original work that reflects the relationship between humans and the environment.
“Artists have a critical role to play in connecting people emotionally to this work and connecting people visually to this work in a new way and really bringing this work into our cultural spaces,” Smith said.
Though LaPointe’s is the first official residency, there was a pilot version in 2023 that helped inform today’s program. Following an open call this summer, 125 artists from around the country submitted applications, Smith said. LaPointe, a native of the Santa Rita Hills, came out on top. Her application stood out because of how connected she is to the local environment and her expertise in such a “fascinating medium,” Smith said.
As a block printer, LaPointe makes prints using the “giant stamps” she carves by hand and her letterpress manufactured circa 1896.
Pressed and printed
For more information about Angelina LaPointe’s work, go to sidecar-press.com or follow on Instagram @sidecarpress. Visit whitebuffalolandtrust.org to learn about the nonprofit’s mission. On Dec. 17, the artist will speak at the Lompoc Teen Center at 4 p.m. about what it means to be a working artist. For more information, visit lompocteencenter.org.
a goat herd come through the oak grove shepherded by Great Pyrenees dogs. It could take 20 to 30 hours to carve.
“The seeds that have been planted through this residency will continue to bear fruit for quite some time, I suspect,” LaPointe said.
One of the ways she’ll engage with the community before her residency is over is speaking at the Lompoc Teen Center. On Dec. 17, she’ll talk to students about what it means to be a working artist and try to debunk some of the glorified tropes portrayed in the media. Spoiler alert: The job requires a lot of paperwork.
Though White Buffalo’s first artistic residency is coming to an end, two more artists will start their stays in the spring. Smith feels fortunate that LaPointe is a local so that they can keep in touch.
“This is a really special experience because I get to actually make work in the ecosystems that I’m familiar with,” the artist said.
To kick off LaPointe’s residency in mid-October, Smith gave her a tour of the canyon. It took the pair roughly two hours to drive around the 1,000-acre property on an ATV.
“It’s just so fun to be able to have an experience in such a beautiful place but also with someone who has the same kind of joy in the ecological ‘nerdage’ of it all,” LaPointe said about the ride. “I was like, ‘Oh man. This is really happening. I get to do this.’ That was the moment it became real.”
Instead of living full time at Jalama, LaPointe chose a hybrid residency, which ends in the middle of December. She spends a week at a time living in a cabin on the property and returns to her home in between.
“Golden hour” hikes in the mornings and evenings have occupied a lot of her time. She likes that the light is just right, and on those trips she has photographed and sketched the landscape, collecting ideas for future prints.
“One of the wonderful surprises about being out there on the land was being able to visit the same area, the same tree, or the same grove of trees, at different times of day, multiple days in a row,” LaPointe said.
With enough source material to sustain about a year and a half’s worth of work, she’s aiming to finish a few pieces before the residency ends. One will be a large-scale print, about 18 by 24 inches, depicting an experience during her first week watching
“We’re excited to be building a creative community,” Smith said, “that can really shift the public understanding of what our future in agriculture and specifically in food and fiber production as well as our ecology can really look like.” m
Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@ santamariasun.com.
IN THE HILLS: The White Buffalo Land Trust’s artist in residency program officially started this fall. Artists live in a cabin at Jalama Canyon Ranch in Lompoc, creating work that will visually connect the community to the nonprofit’s work to support regenerative agriculture. COURTESY PHOTO
PHOTO COURTESY OF PATTI ROBBINS
COURTESY PHOTO BY ANGELINA LAPOINTE
BY THE BLOCK: Angelina LaPointe carves wooden blocks that act as stamps to create prints with her 130-year-old printing press.
COURTESY PHOTO BY KYLE SULLIVAN
ON THE GROUND: During Angelina LaPointe’s residency, she went on hikes and spent time sketching and photographing scenes at Jalama Canyon Ranch.
Rationalization
Co-writer and director Noah Baumbach
(The Squid and the Whale, Marriage Story) helms this dramedy written with Emily Mortimer about a famous film star named Jay Kelly (George Clooney) who in the twilight of his career reflects on his life. Always at his side is his devoted but harried manager, Ron (Adam Sandler), who’s constantly struggling to balance his home life and his needy client. (144 min.)
Glen: The price of fame is on full display in this heartfelt film about regret and neglect. Jay is a hugely famous actor who’s touched many fans with his films. He’s a bona fide star. He’s also a father of two adult daughters—Daisy (Grace Edwards) and Jessica (Riley Keough). Jessica, a teacher, feels abandoned and angry. Daisy is 18 and ready to take flight … literally. She’s off to Europe just when Jay thought they might have time to connect. Clooney, also a bona fide movie star, is terrific in the role. Wistful and guilt-ridden, his Jay—through cleverly segued flashbacks—looks at past choices and begins to confront who he is at his core. He’s been an empty vessel awaiting a writer and director to fill with a character. Even in his personal life, he’s always acting, playing the charming, kind, and confident movie star. It seems exhausting.
JAY KELLY
What’s it rated? R
What’s it worth, Anna?
Full price
What’s it worth, Glen?
Full price
status but seems to be forever lonely—no matter how many people surround him. A chance encounter with an old classmate—Timothy (Billy Crudup)—leaves him reeling. Is he the fraud this man sees him to be? More likely he’s someone surrounded by the messiness of life, living in the grayness of reality instead of the black and white that movies can portray. It’s interesting to see Clooney in this reflective movie star role as a man who is wholly recognizable across the globe. I’m sure that this character rang true to the actor in many ways. Sandler is also great here as the put-upon and loyal manager, Ron, who makes personal sacrifices to accommodate Jay’s whimsy. Laura Dern’s character, Liz, sums it up best as she frustratedly tells Ron that the power imbalance means they aren’t truly friends with Jay. Instead, the friendship goes one direction. I really loved this film and found it to be incredibly earnest at its core.
Where’s it showing?
The Palm Theatre in SLO (last day is Dec. 11), Netflix
Anna: This film is a bit about regret, a bit about longing, and overall, a study in reflection. Jay is a man who can get what he wants because of his
SORRY, BABY
What’s it rated? R When? 2025
Where’s it showing? HBO Max
This contemplative film offers up a slice-of-life story, one that focuses on Agnes, who’s played by the filmmaker Eva Victor. Agnes is a professor at the same rural arts college where she and her small group of friends attended. Lydie (Naomi Ackie) has come to visit and reveals some big news of her own. Within their visit, we watch as Agnes’ truth slowly unfurls. We learn that she was the victim of a crime, and that it has changed her.
She is now a professor at the college that she attended, and she can’t help but be haunted by the past within those walls. This film feels like its origins were in a black box theater—the moments between Agnes and Lydie are quiet and intimate, and the two are filled with the kind of effortless love that long friendships contain.
Glen: Clooney and Sandler have never acted together before, but they have a natural chemistry here. Both have a tremendous range, and Sandler—who started his career playing good natured buffoons in films like Billy Madison (1995) and Happy Gilmore (1996)—soon proved himself to be a very effective serious actor in films such as Punch-Drunk Love (2002), Reign Over Me (2007), and Uncut Gems (2019). Clooney went from TV heartthrob in ER to a bankable movie
Along the way, Agnes finds a kitten, and in that discovery she finds something that needs tending outside of her own delicate heart. This isn’t an action-packed or busy film. Instead, it tucks in like a warm sweater against
a cool breeze and reminds us all what a little bit of hope can feel like. (103 min.)
—Anna
star. On paper, they should be mismatched, but on-screen, they match each other blow for blow. Jay and Ron both have flaws, but in Clooney’s and Sandler’s hands, they’re both sympathetic and likeable people we want to see succeed. The film resonates emotionally because of their portrayals even if neither character ultimately triumphs.
Anna: The film looks at their relationship as much as Jay himself. Jay relies on Ron to make his wishes come to fruition, and Ron relies
THE LAST FRONTIER
What’s it rated? TV-MA
When? 2025
Where’s it showing? Apple TV+
Created by Jon Bokenkamp and Richard D’Ovidio (The Blacklist ), this action thriller series has an interesting premise. Can small-town Deputy U.S. Marshal Frank Remnick (Jason Clarke), with limited resources and a harsh locale, locate fugitives from a downed prisoner transport plane? Among the escapees is Havlock (Dominic Cooper), recently captured in a CIA black op. CIA bigwig, Jacqueline Bradford (Alfre Woodard), dispatches operative Sidney Scofield (Haley Bennett) to help, but trust is scarce since both Frank and Sidney harbor secrets.
To be honest, the series is half action thriller and half soap opera. Frank’s wife, Sarah (Simone Kessell), is tired of Frank prioritizing work over family, including teenage son Luke (Tait Blum). The entire family is grieving the death of Frank and Sarah’s other child, the details of which are slowly revealed. Speaking of slow, with 10 episodes, some as long as an hour, the series can feel a little like a slog at times.
After the first two episodes were released on Oct. 10, new installments have rolled out weekly. All 10 are out
on Jay to afford his family a comfortable life. We watch as Jay replays key scenes of his life, and as Ron spends too much time missing key moments of his. It’s a bit of a poem, scoping life out from the big moments to the tiny—and the thing that really makes a life, all those forgotten moments in between. m
New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
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On-Demand wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV) brought to you by Care Connection Transport Services powered by Santa Barbara County
Service Hours:
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REGRETS, THEY’VE HAD A FEW: Famous movie actor, Jay Kelly (George Clooney, left), and his devoted manager, Ron (Adam Sandler), both confront their life choices, in Jay Kelly, screening at The Palm Theatre and streaming on Netflix.
now, so binge at will, but be warned: The series ends on a cliffhanger, and no season 2 is guaranteed. (10 40- to 61-min. episodes) m —Glen
PHOTO COURTESY OF A24
SHAPED BY THE PAST: Former graduate school besties, Lydie (Naomi Ackie, left) and Agnes (Eva Victor, right), look back on their shared history, in Sorry, Baby, a black comedy indie film streaming on HBO Max.
EARNING TRUST: In Fairbanks, Alaska, Deputy U.S. Marshal Frank Remnick (Jason Clarke, left) and CIA asset Sidney Scofield (Haley Bennett, right) work together to locate fugitives from a downed prison transport plane, in The Last Frontier, streaming on Apple TV+.
PHOTO
She’s owned a couple of other Thai restaurants in Santa Barbara County, incorporating her identity into the names of the restaurants.
BY MADISON WHITE
Growing up, food was a memorable part of Preaw Chamchoi’s life. She remembered watching her dad and grandmother working in the kitchen, and when she was in school, her dad rewarded good grades with going out to eat. She said it worked.
“After the semester, we get to go celebrate,” Chamchoi said. “It’s almost like a little treat.”
She also said Thai people don’t typically cook very elaborate dishes at home. Take pad thai for example. Chamchoi said there
are too many ingredients to make it yourself, but you could go to the market where each street food vendor has a specialty.
“If you want pad thai, go to one store and they sell all pad thai,”
Chamchoi said. “They’re famous for this and that.”
Pad thai is one of her restaurants’ most-ordered items, but before a career in hospitality, she studied architecture. Born and raised in Thailand, she went to school in Bangkok and then moved to the U.S. at the age of 24. Thai roots are still prominent in her life, even professionally.
Chamchoi’s role as a restaurateur started with T.A.P Thai in Goleta. The initials referred to herself and business partners, Top and Aon, but now, she’s the sole owner.
Based in Santa Barbara, Chamchoi drives to Solvang multiple times a week to operate her newest venture, Kanok Thai Cuisine. Kanok, stems from her legal name, Kanokwan, meaning “girl with golden skin.” By itself, kanok translates to “gold” and informed the aesthetic inside the eatery.
She’d been looking for an open space in Solvang for a while, and as soon as she saw a building for lease, she called the realtor.
Before opening, Chamchoi spent six months renovating the
AUTHENTIC: Kanok Thai Cuisine prides itself on being the only Thai restaurant in Solvang, serving food, culture, and warmth to everyone who walks in. The menu boasts curries, soups, noodle dishes, and fried rice.
LITTLE DETAILS: The décor at Preaw Chamchoi’s Thai eatery comes straight from Thailand, like the wallpaper, gong, and statues. Chamchoi travels to the country annually and ships items back to California.
SIT BACK AND RELAX: The downstairs area of Kanok Thai Cuisine is a small,
Holiday Magic
building, a two-story space on Alisal Road. She said people walking by were excited for the opening.
“Everyone’s kind of super supportive here,” she said.
It’s also the only Thai restaurant in Solvang at the moment. The only other Asian food she’s noticed in town is ramen.
“I think Solvang needed a little variety,” Chamchoi said.
The building itself reminds her of houses in Thailand because it’s common for them to be two stories tall. In some ways she decorated Kanok like a home, too. The wallpaper, like much of the décor, is as authentic as the cuisine. She shipped pieces back to California during visits to Thailand.
Kanok’s ground level is set up like a living room, with a sofa, big chairs, and round end tables. What gives it away as a restaurant is the long bar and row of low-back barstools. Chamchoi envisions the space as being comfortable for customers when they just want small bites or a beverage.
Upstairs is where the culinary magic happens. At the top of a wide staircase, the whole space opens to tables, another bar, and the kitchen, which guests can see into from the outside.
After a few weeks of a soft launch, Chamchoi officially opened Kanok’s doors on her birthday in mid-November. So far, the popular items have been pad thai, drunken noodles (Chamchoi’s favorite), and green curry. Another honorable mention is the
slow-cooked spareribs, she said. The Kanok menu also features curries, salads, soups, and fried rice.
With the holiday boom quickly approaching, Chamchoi is ready for the influx of visitors, who help make the time pass quickly.
“I can’t wait,” she said. “I love being busy.” m
Staff Writer Madison White took home leftovers of Kanok’s panang curry. Reach her at mwhite@santamariasun.com.
SHINY: In Thai, kanok means “gold.” It’s also the name of a new Thai restaurant in Solvang, coming from part of the owner’s name. Consequently, gold accents are prevalent.
