Sovereignty, according to the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, gives a tribe the ability to take care of its culture and people. When the federal government formally recognizes a tribe, that acknowledgment gives it visibility and dignity, according to Michael Erin Woody. The Salinan Tribe of Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties tribal council member is working on his tribe’s petition to get just that. Contributor Emma Montalbano writes about why it’s important and what the process takes in this week’s story [8]
Also, read about the Madre Fire near Cuyama [4]; Chumash artist John Khus [26]; and Wild West Pizza’s quest to be the best [29].
We’ve only begun spreading the word over the past year, but Sun’s membership program has enabled readers like you to support our journalism since 2020. It’s about time we raised our voices: We want to grow our member base—and we’d love for you to join!
PHOTO PROOF: Salinan people have lived on the Central Coast for the last 10,000 years, but as part of the tribe’s petition for acknowledgment from the federal government, it has to prove that it’s stayed together as a tribe since before 1900.
• On July 3, U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) released a statement on the passage of the Republican reconciliation bill. Carbajal voted against the bill, while opposing its unprecedented cuts to essential programs like Medicaid and food assistance, according to Carbajal’s office. In his statement, Carbajal said the bill “puts billionaires first and working families last,” and “betrays millions of children, seniors, and veterans who will lose their health care and food assistance.” In California’s 24th Congressional District, 119,000 residents benefit from food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The bill makes massive cuts to SNAP, which helps more than 42 million Americans afford groceries and also slashes $900 billion from Medicaid, according to Carbajal’s office. “It’s a betrayal of rural communities who will face unprecedented funding cuts to their hospitals and nursing homes. Donald Trump and congressional Republicans promised to lower the cost of living and make life easier, but this bill will do the exact opposite,” Carbajal stated. “Their agenda is shameful, and I’ll continue to fight back.”
•U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California), ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, and Adam Schiff (D-California) joined 68 Democratic lawmakers in urging President Donald Trump to rescind his discriminatory travel ban with a letter on July 3. The letter demands transparency into Trump’s decision-making process and answers about how the travel ban will impact communities across the United States. Addressed to Trump, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Attorney General Pam Bondi the joint letter outlined the “disastrous consequences” that Trump’s travel ban will have on families and the American economy. “The effects of President Trump’s discriminatory travel ban will be devastating. In the last year alone, over 126,000 visas have been issued to nationals from just the 12 countries on the fully restricted list,” the letter states. “These are individuals who are looking to come to the United States to reunite with family, support our economy, or otherwise enrich our country in innumerable ways.” Trump’s ban imposes full restrictions on entry into the United States from nationals of Afghanistan, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen, as well as partial restrictions on entry from nationals of Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. Trump is also reportedly considering imposing travel restrictions on an additional 36 countries, according to Padilla’s office. “This travel ban will harm our economy by depriving the United States of workers in key fields experiencing labor shortages like medicine and agriculture and further devastating our domestic tourism industry which is already expected to decline by $12.5 billion in 2025,” the letter states. U.S. Sen. Chris Coons (D-Delaware) and U.S. Rep. Judy Chu (D-Monterey Park) spearheaded the letter.
• State Sen. Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara) recently commented on the passage of the 20252026 California state budget with a June 27 statement. “Our state budget has been severely impacted by federal policies that have further affected an already difficult budget. Unfortunately that means we have made incredibly hard decisions in order to address affordability, defend core programs, and reject cuts to our institutions that support all Californians,” Limón stated. “This budget maintains funding to our higher education institutions, housing programs, critical reproductive health care services, and child care system, while expanding funding to support a yearround Cal Fire fighting force. While this budget gets us to the next step in the process, the work must continue to safeguard California’s values.” m
Madre Fire consumes 80,000-plus acres across the Cuyama Valley
It took less than a day for a wildfire near New Cuyama to grow into California’s largest of the year by acreage so far.
While the cause of the Madre Fire remains under investigation, fire officials traced back its point of origin to the early afternoon of July 2, along Highway 166 in the Cuyama Valley. Before the next morning, the wildfire had scorched 52,000 acres, fire behavior analyst Lee Helgeson said during a July 7 virtual community forum.
Helgeson is a member of the California Incident Management Team 8, one of a handful of agencies working to contain the Madre Fire— which had grown to more than 80,500 acres by July 8.
Ongoing evacuation warnings applied to some areas along Highway 166 in both Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, with several areas in the Los Padres National Forest also under evacuation orders.
“About 50 percent of this fire is on the Carrizo Plain,” Gabe Garcia, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) agency administrator, said at the July 7 forum.
As of July 8, all BLM lands in the Carrizo Plain National Monument—known for its yearly wildflower blooms—were closed to the public.
“There’s lots of very sensitive sites; lots of sites that are very special to our tribal partners.
There’s lots of recreation sites as well,” said Garcia, who described the roles BLM’s resource advisors are taking on in collaboration with California Incident Management Team 8, Cal Fire, and other agencies.
“These are folks who go out with the fire crews, … making sure to check on these sensitive sites,” Garcia said at the forum, “actively going out there, checking to see if there’s any damage to these sites.”
Resource advisors worked near the Painted Rock area on July 7 and reported no damage to the rock formation, Garcia said. He added that minimal damage was recently reported at the KCL Campground, managed by BLM.
As of July 8, the Madre Fire was 35 percent contained. However, that statistic didn’t represent all spots where fire lines were put in place over the past few days, Team 8 Public Information Officer Kimberly Kaschalk said.
“There’s areas where lines have been built, but we don’t call it contained until those lines have been proven that they’re going to hold,” Kaschalk told the Sun
Proving a fire line will hold “is where the process of mopping up comes in,” she explained.
“That term is used when we literally send people into the fire area to … do grid patterns and make sure that there’s no burning embers, or a smoldering log, or anything that could potentially put a spark into this dried grass and make that fire spread—or, God forbid, start a new fire,” Kaschalk said. “It’s a very, very slow meticulous process that we need to do to ensure that those [fire] lines are going to hold. It’s not enough just to put them there. We’ve got to make sure they’re going to hold.”
—Caleb Wiseblood
Santa Maria youth respond to stepped-up ICE enforcement
Fed up with the federal government’s policies and their impact on communities like his in Santa Maria, 17-year-old Cesar Vasquez recently shifted the focus of his organization, La Cultura Del Mundo.
“We are here to protect all immigrants—no matter where you are from, who you believe in, who you love, or where you stand,” Vasquez said during public comment at Santa Maria’s July 1 City Council meeting. “Join us on Aug. 1 for La Marcha De La Puebla, as we show immigrants across the United States that they are the heroes, not the villains that history has written them to be.”
That day, Vasquez and La Cultura Del Mundo will lead La Marcha De La Puebla: Heroes Not Villains, starting at noon at Santa Maria City Hall, located at 110 E. Cook St.
This year, Vasquez converted his life skill workshop-oriented community group into a political movement. He started organizing the upcoming event in May to combat the Trump administration’s push against undocumented immigrants and end Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids.
“The No Kings Day protests were really good at targeting one person, but they only targeted that one person,” Vasquez told the Sun. “Our goal is to build a sustainable movement that defends millions of people instead of attacking one person for one day.”
Seeking to create a campaign that grows, Vasquez said he’s been establishing and nurturing relationships with organizers across the country. The march currently has commitments for supporting protests from activists in 12 other states: Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Colorado, Texas, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.
“In other states, multiple cities are protesting,” Vasquez said. “We want to ensure Santa Maria
is the only one in California, so we can bring together as many people as possible and show the power we have when unified. I have people coming from the Bay, LA, San Diego, Santa Barbara, and Oxnard.”
Vasquez said he designed La Marcha De La Puebla to bring people together.
“We’ll release flyers in different languages, so immigrants from European and African countries can feel included and know this is not just for immigrants from Spanish-speaking countries, it’s for all immigrants across the U.S.,” he said.
Jesus Herrera Romero, 17, part of La Cultura Del Mundo’s public relations team, told the Sun he met Vasquez in February, when he organized Righetti High School for Vasquez’s walkout of middle school to college students across Santa Barbara County.
Herrera Romero said his friends and family members are so on edge due to ICE raids, they get scared when they see black or white SUVs or the green stripe on the side of park rangers’ trucks.
“We’re going to be pushing for different resolutions across the U.S. that support immigrants, so we can build up from the local level,” Vasquez said. “We’re trying to build this movement locally, so other local governments will feel pressure to support immigrants, and, from there, establish safety nets across the country.”
Running La Cultura Del Mundo isn’t all he does to support the immigrant community. As a responder for 805UndocuFund’s Rapid Response Network, Vasquez patrols Santa Maria for ICE officers or impersonators.
“Someone recently asked me what I’m fighting for,” Vasquez said. “Yes, I’m fighting for immigrants to stay together with their families and for field workers to get higher pay. Yes, I’ve fought for environmental justice, women’s rights, and educational equity, and against violence. But, in life, my goal is to fight for hope.”
—Reece Coren
Santa Barbara County ag grosses $2 billion in 2024
Nearly half of Santa Barbara County’s ag gross revenue for 2024 stems from a single fruit.
According to the county Agricultural Commissioner’s Office, strawberry producers raked in $860 million last year. That’s more than 40 percent of the county’s total gross production value—which the department’s 2024 crop and livestock report listed as approximately $2.01 billion.
During the county Board of Supervisors’ July 1 meeting, Deputy Agricultural Commissioner Matthew Maiten described strawberries as “the cornerstone of the county’s agricultural economy.” The 2024 report listed the county’s top 10 agricultural commodities based on gross value, with broccoli ($93 million), cauliflower ($78 million), and blackberries ($77 million) among the highest ranked crops behind strawberries.
“It is important to note that the values presented in this report reflect gross values of agricultural commodities,” Maiten told the board. “It does not consider costs associated with labor, planting, irrigation, distribution, among other production activities.”
Claire Wineman, president of the GrowerShipper Association of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties, reiterated Maiten’s point during public comment. She added that the costs of growing “have significantly increased in recent years and there are some significant challenges to making ends meet.”
Fourth District Supervisor Bob Nelson said that it’s crucial to distinguish between net revenue and gross revenue and remember that the $2 billion benchmark represents the latter in this case.
DARKEST BEFORE THE DAWN: From July 2 to 8, the Madre Fire in the Cuyama Valley burned more than 80,500 acres.
“Many of these farmers do lose money,” Nelson said. “Higher numbers … doesn’t necessarily mean a fully healthy economy out there.”
Nelson said he’s proud of the county’s milestone—as the report noted there are less than a dozen counties across California with ag gross production exceeding $2 billion— but doesn’t want local officials to get “into the habit” of assuming there’s “a lot of excess cash” in the ag industry.
Last year, the Agricultural Commissioner’s Office reported a total gross value of $1.8 billion for Santa Barbara County. This year’s crop and livestock report also summarizes stats related to the county’s nine certified farmers markets.
First District Supervisor Roy Lee asked staff to elaborate on the certification process.
“How do you ensure that, at farmers markets, the vendors are selling the fruit that they grow,” Lee said, “and not just going to Costco and reselling theirs?”
“For the last couple of years, we have actually ramped up our enforcement presence at the farmers markets,” Agricultural Commissioner Jose Chang replied. “Not only here. We also hear from our neighboring counties that our farmers are going to their markets.”
In April, the Agricultural Commissioner’s Office sent a memo about “common compliance issues observed” at local farmers markets to Santa Barbara County’s certified producers, which total more than 100, Chang said.
The memo included reminders for farmers market vendors to clearly display their business name at markets on their Santa Barbara Countyrequired banner. Each banner for certified producers reads: “We grow what we sell.”
“Our job is to ensure that what they are selling at those markets, they are actually growing them,” Chang told the board. “So, we go back to the growing grounds to do inspections and to verify that they are growing what they sell at these markets.”
Chang said that most of the certification issues related to crop verification boil down to outdated paperwork.
“What we are finding is that oftentimes it is just a paper issue, that they forgot to come to the office and add those commodities that they’re growing,” Chang explained. “So, it’s not that our farmers are not complying with the regulations. Oftentimes, it is just an oversight on their part.” m —Caleb Wiseblood
STRAWBERRY YIELDS FOREVER: As part of its annual crop and livestock report, the Santa Barbara County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office ranked the region’s top 10 ag commodities based on gross value. Strawberries topped the list at $860 million for 2024.
BY REECE COREN
The Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum and Children’s Resource and Referral of Santa Barbara County merged on July 1, creating a new partnership at the Santa Maria hands-on museum.
“It’s a perfect marriage,” said Jacquilyn Banta, chief operating officer for the museum. “We can serve families with high-quality engagement and child development while also honoring the history of the Santa Maria Valley.”
As part of the merger, the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum will now operate as the Children’s Resource and Referral Discovery Museum. The education and resource organization will continue serving as the umbrella organization.
The museum will offer new programs like STEM nights, Stay and Play family hours, mobile discovery units, and multilingual access initiatives.
Along with a new music section, the arts and crafts station, pirate ship, and toddler space have all been upgraded. Children can explore new learning opportunities like working with robots and microscopes or painting and cutting out shapes.
“Every space is touched with the intention to build the brains of our youngest community members,” Banta said. “We’re confident that when families come in, they’re going to feel that intentionality.”
Banta said the new museum also incorporates literacy in every exhibit. Kids can find books related to the space they’re exploring and act out what they see and read, she said.
“Research demonstrates that children enter kindergarten more ready when they have access to high-quality early learning environments beforehand,” Banta said. “All children should have access to high-quality early learning.”
The new space will offer team members who can help families find licensed child care options that fit their specific needs, according to Banta. She said team members provide families with checklists of what should be in high-quality early learning environments and links to see if each option is being inspected regularly or if there are any causes for concern.
“Children’s Resource and Referral has the only database of all licensed child care options in our county,” Banta said. “We are also committed to keeping membership affordable.”
A $75 basic membership provides unlimited museum admission for one adult and one child for a year; the $95 grandparent membership allows two grandparents and four grandchildren a year of free admission.
A $135 reciprocal membership also provides a year of free admission for two adults and three children from the same household. It includes a 50 percent discount off general admission at more than 200 museums in the United States and Canada. Find the full list at childrensmuseums.org.
“Our shared vision is rooted in one belief: that all children deserve the chance to discover their potential,” Banta said in press materials. “This is our commitment to a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient future for Santa Barbara County.”
On July 8, the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce planned a ribboncutting ceremony to celebrate the merger.
“This is more than a merger; it’s a movement toward a stronger, more connected future for our community’s children,” Chief Executive Officer Michelle Graham said in press materials. “Together, we are expanding access to early education, enriching learning experiences, and supporting families where they are—both in life and in learning.”
Highlight
• The Kiwanis Club of Santa Maria-Noontime is seeking community partners to sponsor its upcoming Aug. 16 Bunco Bonanza fundraiser at the Minami Community Center. Best for small businesses, the $500 Lucky Roll Sponsorship offers two complimentary tickets, a program listing, event announcements, and social media recognition. The $1,000 High Roller Sponsorship is designed for mid-sized businesses and includes four complimentary tickets, premium seating, program logo placement, ceremony recognition, and social media promotion. The $2,500 Bunco Champion Sponsorship also comes with four event tickets, which are complemented by premium table placement, your company’s logo being added on the program cover, exclusive game round naming rights, a speaking opportunity, and more. Sponsorship commitments must be made by July 31. Interested businesses can contact Donna Beal at (805) 252-2530 or smvkiwanis1923@gmail.com For more information, visit santamariakiwanis.org m
UPGRADED DIGS: The Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum’s arts and crafts station has been upgraded for the newly formed Children’s Resource and Referral Discovery Museum.
Seeking acknowledgment
The Salinan Tribe of Monterey and SLO Counties pursues sovereignty through federal recognition
BY EMMA MONTALBANO
Century-old photographs, handwritten letters, baptism records, and other primary documents confirmed what Michael Erin Woody and the rest of the Salinan Tribe of Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties already knew.
“This is a continuous group of Indians that have been here since before European contact, and we’re still here,” the tribal council member said.
Without formal recognition from the United States government, though, the tribe struggles to make this known to the broader community, Woody said. Native Americans are invisible unless they are part of a federally recognized tribe, he emphasized.
“It’s a dignity issue,” Woody explained.
“When you don’t have that federal recognition, the federal government doesn’t have a lot to offer you in terms of assistance when it comes to education, health care, housing, or anything else. We’re basically just out there continuing to hold on by a shoestring and deteriorate, and it does make things pretty difficult for all of us.”
Despite this, the tribe hangs onto the histories and lived experiences of its ancestors.
Woody recalled sitting with his grandfather before he passed, listening to stories about the tribe’s life in the early 1900s, some of which included navigating disputes over land rights that eventually led to the loss of tribal land.
document, descent, unique membership, and congressional termination.
Being approved for federal recognition would help the Salinan Tribe of Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties preserve its culture for future generations and reaffirm to outsiders that tribal members are who they say they are, Woody said.
“It won’t change how we see ourselves, but it will give us the ability to help people understand our history, who we are as a family, who we are to this area, who we are as a group,” he said.
Sovereign stake
The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has been federally recognized since 1901, and according to Tribal Chairman Kenneth Kahn, the tribe essentially has a direct relationship with the federal government that allows it to take care of its culture and its people.
“I think the primary element of a federally recognized tribe is the inherent authority that Native American tribes have to govern themselves within the United States,” he said.
As the only federally recognized Chumash tribe in the state, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash exercises its right to tribal sovereignty on its land by upholding a constitution and maintaining a government made up of elected officials. In doing so, the tribes created government-to-government relationships with both federal entities and local municipalities like Santa Barbara County.
Having sovereignty enabled the tribe to protect its community and persist, Khan said. It’s more than just the right to form a government, he said. It’s also a platform that enables the tribe to continue to build upon itself for generations to come.
For instance, the tribe recently opened the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center on reservation land that was placed into trust with the federal government in 2014. The cultural center allows the tribe to tell its story—a story that isn’t taught in schools—“so visitors will come away with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities Chumash ancestors faced living in the Santa Ynez Valley for more than 8,000 years,” Kahn said in 2021.
Despite retaining tribal sovereignty, Kahn told the Sun that tribal relationships with the federal government have been rocky since “time immemorial,” adding that with changes in presidential administrations, the tribe’s always looking for opportunities to collaborate.
for us is protection of the environment, protection of our culture, of our traditional ways, etc., and so we’re always trying to find the balance of how we can work with different administrations.”
A recent example of the tribe exercising its sovereignty, Kahn explained, was the establishment of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary. The tribe helped make this designation possible by being part of an intergovernmental policy group with the federal government, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), state government, and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians.
“Tribes are great partners in their communities,” Kahn said. “When we can work from a government-to-government perspective, we can move mountains. We can partner and not only improve the opportunities for the tribal reservation footprints, but also the communities that surround the reservation.”
There are several changes happening with the federal government under the Trump administration, he said, which means it’s especially important for them to ensure that they have tribal representation at some level.
“With this much change, we’re certainly having a challenge keeping up,” Kahn said. “But tribes are bipartisan, so we have a lot of voices on both sides of the aisle, and even with the current administration, we have some partnerships that we’re really focused on to try and make sure that tribes have a voice in D.C.”
Historic pursuit
Records for Salinan Tribal Law Lead Kenneth Pierce’s grandmother stated that she was born in Livermore, but that didn’t add up with everything else he knew about her.
For three months, Pierce searched for clues about his grandmother’s birthplace. He called records offices in Livermore, Sacramento, and Monterey, but none had documents for Katherine McCormack.
From his knowledge, she grew up in Pleyto near Lake San Antonio, and according to a letter they had found many years ago, she went to school at the San Juan Bautista Mission. With the help of his wife, Pierce reached out to the mission. Weeks later, they received word that a journal had been found in the mission’s museum that contained what they had been searching for.
Hearing these accounts as an adult reminded Woody that the history of what happened to tribes, especially those in California, is still fresh.
There are more than 570 federally acknowledged tribes in the United States, according to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), and more than 100 of those come from the state of California. This acknowledgment recognizes a tribe’s right of self-governance, or tribal sovereignty, and affords it certain federal benefits and protections.
The Salinan Tribe of Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties remains one of the approximately 60 unrecognized tribes in California, but in September 2024, the local tribe submitted a petition for federal acknowledgment to the BIA. Recently, its petition moved into the first phase of technical assistance, meaning that people from the Office of Federal Acknowledgment (OFA) are reviewing parts of it to see if changes or additions need to happen.
Created in 1978 by the United States Department of the Interior (DOI) and revised in 1994 and 2015, the federal acknowledgment process requires tribes to meet seven mandatory criteria to be federally recognized. These criteria, according to an email from the Office of Public Affairs for Indian Affairs, are: Indian entity identification, community, political influence or authority, governing
“Our tribe is dependent on economic development ventures to be able to fund our government,” he explained. “Business is an important component, but equally important
“It had a page where it showed where my grandmother and her sister were enrolled and enlisted, ... and both of the girls were born in Pleyto,” Pierce recalled. “It said right on the thing, so that was a big find for us.”
FAMILY HEIRLOOMS: The family of Tribal Council member Michael Erin Woody has held onto many historic artifacts, such as original photographs taken more than 100 years ago and handmade fishing weights and arrowheads.
PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM
HOLDING ON: Salinan people have lived on the Central Coast for the last 10,000 years. Today, the Salinan Tribe of Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties builds upon their culture and remembers the ancestors who came before them, according to Tribal Council member Michael Erin Woody.
PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM
This breakthrough came after Pierce and Woody took over the tribe’s petition for federal acknowledgement. Together, it took them two and a half years to complete all of the requirements.
The tribe’s initial attempt at the petition in 2018, before Woody and Pierce took it over, wasn’t accepted for consideration because it didn’t meet “any of the requirements.” The pair agreed to tackle the process one step at time, but first they had to understand what exactly the federal government was looking for from each requirement.
“Ken and I got on the phone with the DOI, who have been painfully helpful every step of the way, and then started doing our own reading and research on federal regulations and how this works, reading through applications that have worked and applications that have failed, specifically out of California,” Woody said.
Pierce and Woody both said that the tribe originally misunderstood what was being asked of it for many of the requirements. After working with the OFA directly and asking questions, the pair felt confident enough to move forward with the petition.
The process of federal acknowledgement can be summed up in one word, “continuity,” Woody said.
“What the government is actually asking for is to identify a tribal group of Indians that were in existence before 1900,” he said, “and then identify how that very specific group of Indians has stayed together as a tribal group throughout the 20th century and through today.”
Demonstrating this continuity includes putting together a genealogy report for every active member of the tribe. With 248 active members, Woody and Pierce felt fortunate enough to have already had much of this information gathered from the tribe’s earlier attempt at a petition.
They looked over the previously gathered files to verify the information and noticed that some records needed to be looked into further, including that of Pierce’s grandmother.
Documenting genealogy became particularly hard when records came from before 1900.
“Those can be difficult to obtain,” Woody explained. “And then, you get back to before 1834 for the missions and now all of the records are in Spanish so they needed to be translated.”
As they gathered evidence, Woody’s latenight reading became collections of documents and history books detailing the stories of California tribes. For him, this meant learning more about his ancestors and what they went through.
“I’m not reading history,” he said. “I’m reading about my family, so it becomes a little more relatable. It really is a fascinating story what happened here in California, a story that’s not told all the time.”
The state’s unique tribal history, according to Woody, includes the displacement and secularization of Native Americans as a result of the founding of 21 Spanish missions across California. Being from a tribe of “Mission Indians” influenced the way in which Woody and Pierce compiled evidence, as it required them to work with local dioceses and missions to gather information like baptism records.
Woody also highlighted the 18 unratified treaties of 1851 to 1852, which were negotiated and signed so that about one third of Native Americans could live in peace on their reservations in the state. However, political pressure meant that the treaties were never ratified, leaving California natives impoverished without land or protection.
Sifting through this history was daunting at times, but both Woody and Pierce said they enjoyed discovering more about the history of their tribe and families.
“Some of the stuff I didn’t even know,” Pierce said. “I knew I was Native American, but I was young, and they never discussed who was the Native American, where we got our lineage from.”
In the past, Native Americans sometimes felt the need to hide their true identities as a result of the historical violence against them, Pierce said. Though his grandmother taught him how to make arrowheads, which he definitely thought was “cool” at a young age, he now wishes she had taught him more or that he had asked more questions about their culture.
“Had I known that she could speak the language real fluently, I would have learned it,” he said.
The waiting game
The Salinan Tribe’s petition could take two months, two years, or longer to go through the OFA’s process, Woody said.
“This is just a function of staff time,” he said. “There is no timeframe requirement at this point; it literally becomes an issue of when their staff has the time to do this, because they’re so overburdened, overworked back there right now.”
Though Woody and Pierce don’t know when they will find out whether the Salinan Tribe of San Luis Obispo and Monterey Counties has been approved for federal acknowledgement, they’re optimistic, given how much time and effort they put into the petition. Pierce is especially confident about the tribe’s improved petition because they worked so closely with the OFA to gain a deeper understanding of the requirements.
“If we do not get federally recognized—let’s say they come back and say, ‘Well, we just can’t do it,’ I don’t see how any tribe in California can
Woody, on the other hand, said he has realistic optimism, given the history of the federal acknowledgement process. Since its inception, nearly 50 years ago, 18 petitions have been approved and 34 denied.
Woody, who recently announced his candidacy for the 2nd District SLO County Board of Supervisors seat, called attention to changes happening at the federal level, mentioning in particular the recent creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). With this new development, sizable cuts have been made to several federal agencies, including the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Education, and Department of Health and Human Services.
“I mean, you have the OFA, which is already understaffed,” Woody explained. “If you have the federal government that comes in and says, ‘You don’t need all these staff people, and we hate this whole federal acknowledgement process,’ for all I know we’re gonna wake up tomorrow and find out that half their staff got cut. That’s another wild card in all of this at this point.”
According to the BIA website, which shows the status of every petition that’s being processed or has been processed, only one approved petition is for a California tribe. And no tribe has been acknowledged under the new 2015 regulations.
“I call it a moonshot, and we’re realistic about our chances,” Woody said. “But, we feel we have a good presentation to make and a good argument for it, but, like anything, we’ll see what happens on it.”
Before February of this year, tribes that were denied acknowledgement could not submit for re-petition. Now, according to a final ruling from the BIA, “unsuccessful petitioners” can seek reconsideration if they can show that new evidence and/or changes in the regulations address all of the specific criteria they initially failed to meet.
Woody acknowledges that the whole process is extremely complex and time consuming, highlighting that it might be helpful for the DOI to host seminars across the country so that tribes can learn more about the requirements and have the opportunity to ask questions.
“The misunderstanding of the federal process has created the real problem here,” he said. “You’re trying to take a public perception of what an Indian tribe is, and then you’re trying to shove it into a federal acknowledgement process that is completely different than that.
“Therein lies why so many groups are so frustrated with this because they walk into it with a certain perception just to find out when it’s too late that that’s not exactly how this works.” m
Reach contributor Emma Montalbano at emontalbano@newtimesslo.com.
RIGOROUS RESEARCH: As part of filing a petition for federal acknowledgement, Michael Erin Woody read countless pages of primary documents and collected photographs and other artifacts that demonstrated the tribe’s continuity.
PHOTO BY EMMA MONTALBANO
LOOKING BACK: In March 1932, linguist John P. Harrington documented Salinan culture and history during a trip across Monterey and San Luis Obispo counties. He gathered notes, audio recordings, and nearly 400 photographs, including this one of tribal members at Piedras Blancas, or Te-wé (pronounced teh-way).
FOLLOWING FOOTSTEPS: Members of the Salinan Tribe of San Luis Obispo and Monterey Counties, including Michael Erin Woody, continue to inhabit the land of their ancestors, working to preserve the culture for future generations.
PHOTO BY JAYSON MELLOM
Should county supervisors have redistributed the cannabis enforcement funds?
33% Yes! They made the right call to instead fund a nonprofit helping immigrants.
33% No. The Sheriff’s Office still needs that money to take down illegal cannabis grows.
33% Maybe. There doesn’t seem to be as much need as before.
0% I don’t know; the county’s cannabis enforcement doesn’t affect me.
3 Votes
Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.
Northern Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly
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Start assisting in immigration issues— and urge Congress to make better laws
BY RON FINK
Iam discouraged by Democrats’ disregard for the oath they took when they were elected to serve in Congress. That oath states in part that “I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
Article 1 of the Constitution established how the government would be run. It says that Congress creates the laws, the executive branch enforces the laws, and the judicial branch interprets the laws. Some of those laws specify how aliens can legally enter the country.
Immigration is a complex issue because one political party thinks we should have open borders without any limitations on who can or cannot enter, and the other thinks that anyone who enters should be properly vetted and ready to contribute to society rather than sponge from it. In addition, Democrats believe that anyone who enters the country illegally should be granted immunity from prosecution.
To contribute, an alien should be ready to enter either the “blue collar” or technical/ engineering workforce.
For example, a large portion of America is composed of labor-intensive agricultural operations. These include field, packing house,
cattle, chicken/turkey raising, and meat packing operations. Some are seasonal and others are yeararound operations. Clearly, based on the use of large numbers of illegal aliens to support agricultural labor needs, something needs to change. Trying to use laws enacted decades ago to deal with this problem isn’t working; in years past politicians tried using unemployed citizens for these jobs, but that didn’t work well because they caused too much damage to the crops.
Legislators could start with guest worker programs that are structured to support the ebb and flow agricultural labor needs. The needs of this industry vary with the seasons or abnormal impacts of weather/fire events; thus, a one-sizefits-all approach won’t work. The Department of Agriculture with its network of farm/ranchrelated special interest groups might be helpful to provide meaningful seasonal staffing needs as Congress crafted new immigration rules tailored to this labor need.
Once vetted for the guest worker program, these workers could enter the “fast lane” when they return next season; new workers would still require proper vetting prior to entry. Those on the job for a couple of seasons or those employed in year-round operations could be assisted to become naturalized citizens with educational programs provided by the employer.
I am guessing that a properly crafted change to the guest worker program would gain bipartisan support.
Another need is for skilled craft workers in construction and manufacturing. I am a firm believer that specialized training programs could prepare American citizens for this skill set, but there is also room for some guest workers. As far as the technical/engineering workforce, the U.S. education system doesn’t properly prepare students to enter this spectrum of the work world. It is widely known that K-12 schools are graduating large numbers of students who can’t read or do simple math at grade level. And it’s also known that community college through post graduate universities offer numerous programs that have no value in the workplace.
The absence of a meaningful education for American citizens contributes to the need for guest workers in both the skilled craft and technical/engineering workforce. Since this problem can’t be fixed by congressional action, the only solution seems to be another change in the education syllabus to fill industry demands.
In short, the immigration laws need to be updated, but simply resisting enforcement of existing law with endless conversations, waving signs, yelling and screaming, harassing enforcement officers, burning public property and stopping traffic isn’t helpful and produces no meaningful results.
Unfortunately, neither political party seems to have the will to address this issue. It’s past time to stop resisting and start assisting. It is Congress that can propose legislation to change those laws. m
Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.
The majority of us aren’t in the American Dream club
George Carlin once suggested that the concept of the American Dream is a tool used by “the owners” to keep people placid and focused on trivial things, preventing them from realizing how rigged the system is against them.
“It’s a big club, and you and me ain’t in it.”
This concept has never proved to be so resoundingly accurate as it has in the last four months where we’ve all seen complete and total disregard of the laws and ethical standards surrounding conflicts of interest wherein our
current president and his family have profited from his position. We have all been witness to the largest money-grab in American history and few are doing anything about it.
Qatar handed over a $400 million luxury Boeing 747 jetliner; private individuals spent $148 million on a meme coin in a contest to dine with his majesty; Abu Dhabi committed $2 billion to World Liberty Financial, the family crypto company; Saudi Arabia gifted $2 billion to Jared Kushner from its public investment fund; Don Jr. co-owns “The Executive Branch” where membership costs $500,000; Eric partnered with DarGlobal to secure the Dubai
Trump International Hotel; and Vietnam just approved construction of a $1.5 billion golf resort in Hung Yen province in exchange for tariff reductions.
And then there’s the Trump Gold iPhone and the $5 million Trump Gold Card offered to wealthy foreigners who want a shortcut to U.S. citizenship. Finally, the Big, Beautiful Bill Act kicks 16 million Americans off their health insurance, makes the largest cuts to nutrition assistance in history, and makes higher education less affordable, all to pay for massive tax cuts that directly benefit billionaires. Two years from now, people making more than $500,000 per year will receive a collective $168 billion tax reduction. And there’s absolutely nothing that any of us can do about it.
Brent Jorgensen Pismo Beach
The ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ will destroy us
I am a lifelong Republican. I have developed a new reason to hate getting older. It means I will have only a few more opportunities to vote against all of the elected buffoons from the top down who voted for this “Big, Beautiful Bill” that will destroy our country. The only reason for anyone to support this bill is some perceived threat to themselves. The poor will suffer, and the deficit will cause the U.S. dollar to cease being the world currency. Our nation will slide back into a master-serf nation similar to the early years of England. Shame on all of you socalled elected representatives of the people.
David Ekbom Grover Beach
Fire season is here, y’all.
With more than 80,000 acres burned in the Cuyama Valley and on the Carrizo Plain National Monument since before July 2, and a number of other starts since summer began, now is the time to be careful.
That means: Be done with the fireworks, people.
I can still hear the remnants from the Fourth of July cracking overhead as evening blankets the Santa Maria Valley. Even with a smoky haze in the air, people just want to have their fun, I guess.
In California, fireworks killed several people—including an 8-yearold girl—over the patriotic weekend thanks to the idiotic people who inhabit this country. Mishaps burned down homes in the Los Angeles area, a duplex in the Bay Area, a warehouse, and more.
In Templeton, a fire that started on July 4 is still burning inside the Central Coast town’s iconic, historic Templeton Feed and Grain building. That town will never be the same, and most people believe that it was caused by fireworks.
Leftovers from the Fourth may have started a brush fire in Laguna Beach on July 7, prompting evacuations. Luckily firefighters got the fire out.
So, what have we learned? Illegal fireworks are illegal for a reason. California is a tinderbox, and it’s not safe to play with fire. Didn’t we already know this?
What else did we already know? It’s difficult to get the federal government to officially recognize Native American tribes that it doesn’t already recognize.
It’s crazy difficult. Since 1978, 52 tribes have actually petitioned for acknowledgement. Only
18 made it through the process to be approved.
The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians is federally acknowledged and was granted reservation land in 1901. They’ve been around thousands of years longer than that. But that recognition and access to land that the tribe has sovereignty over enabled the Chumash to have more ownership and say over its own future.
In the last two decades, the tribe was able to add land to its tiny reservation, build homes for its members, and create a cultural center and museum—with the help of casino dollars, of course, and more power to them!
This sort of self-governance is what the Salinan Tribe of Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties is aiming for. Not the casino, necessarily. You need land to even think about that, and, really, it’s way more complicated than all of that.
It’s the Salinan Tribe’s second attempt at the petitioning process. The first go-round, the petition didn’t even make it into the process! It apparently didn’t meet any of the requirements. Really? I bet the number of tribes that have attempted to petition in the last five decades is a lot higher than 52!
You need to prove the history and genealogy of every single active member of your tribe: There are more than 240. You need to prove that you’ve been a continuous and active tribal community since before the missions came and disrupted life through to the present day. And there’s more. Basically, the tribe needs to prove that it existed, it exists, and it matters. Sounds easy, right? m
The Canary thinks sovereignty’s a long shot. Send hope to canary@santamariasun.com.
Hot Stuff
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
ARTS
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE
CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. (805) 928-7799.
Kleindancesarts.com. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.
DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN
DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. ongoing Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, (805) 937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.
GIAFUNNI’S COMEDY Giafunni’s presents a Double Headliner Comedy Extravaganza with Daniel Eachus (Dry Bar) and Patrick Riley. Also appearing are Vic Pulido and Sarah Samaniego. July 12 , 8-10 p.m. $20. (805) 621-4334. Giavanni’s Pizza, 1108 E Clark Ave, Orcutt, beachboardwalkers.org.
SOMETHING ROTTEN Join the Bottom Brothers on a riotous quest to outshine Shakespeare in this uproariously entertaining musical romp. Get tickets and more info at the link. July 17, 7-9:30 p.m., July 18 , 7-9:30 p.m., July 19, 7-9:30 p.m. and July 20 1:30-3:45 p.m. $25. (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 frequently display their works at the airport. Check website for details on monthly exhibits and full list of the gallery’s artists. ongoing valleygallery.org. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.
HOLMES AND WATSON A twisty, tantalizing mystery that keeps its characters and audience alike guessing until the final moments. Wednesdays-Sundays, 8-9:30 p.m. through July 26 Starting at $25. (805) 922-8313. pcpa.org/events/holmes-andwatson-solvang. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.
PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD OF GAINEY’S HISTORIC BARN In need of something to do in Santa Barbara County Wine Country? Head to the picturesque Gainey Vineyard in Santa Ynez for a day of painting and wine. July 20 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $89. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Gainey Vineyard, 3950 East Highway 246, Santa Ynez, California, 93460, United States, Santa Ynez.
SUMMER CAMP 4: GALAXY EXPLORERS
Join for a week of summer fun, creativity, and artistic expression. Children will be creating paintings, drawings, sculptures, weavings, and more. July 14 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $405. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Art Spot on Wheels, 320 Alisal Road, unit 306B, Solvang.
YOSEMITE: SANCTUARY IN STONE A solo exhibition by award-winning nature and landscape photographer William Neill. Through Sept. 1 California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, calnatureartmuseum.org.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA
The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its monthly meeting. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
HOW THE WEST WAS REALLY WON Complete with a saloon setting, card games, duels, and more. Through Aug. 12 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
IMPROV YOUR LIFE This fun applied improvisation class helps participants tap into their creativity through interactive exercises that build confidence, reduce stress, and ease social anxiety. Second Sunday of every month, 6-7:30 p.m. through Aug. 24 $15. (805) 556-8495. improvforgood. fun/. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande.
SECOND SATURDAY IMPROV MEETUP
Have you ever wanted to try improv? Or are you an experienced player looking for opportunities to practice? Join to play short-form games and share smiles in the supportive environment of improv. Second Saturday of every month, 2-4 p.m. through Dec. 13 improvforgood.fun/. Flex Performing Arts Studio (Studio D), 1820 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
SHREK THE MUSICAL Join for Shrek the Musical — a hilarious, heartwarming adventure with catchy songs, lively choreography, and a talented cast. Fun, friendship, and fairy tale magic await!
July 10 7-9 p.m., July 11 7-9 p.m. and July 12 , 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. $17-$28.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
SHREK: THE MUSICAL PRESENTED BY CENTRAL COAST THEATRE COMPANY
This is our biggest show yet! Featuring
PI LIVE
Spend happy hour at Presqu’ile Winery in Santa Maria with Americana singer-songwriter Pi Jacobs on Friday, July 11, from 5 to 7:30 p.m., as she performs live music. The event is free. Find more details at presquilewine.com.
—Angie Stevens
Jon Estes from SLO Opera as Shrek, and Alexx Asencio as Fiona. Let your freak flag fly! Every other day, 7-10 p.m. and July 12 2-5 p.m. $28.50. (805)710-8750. broadwayworld.com/santa-barbara/ regional/Shrek-The-Musical-4324795. 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
6-WEEK BEGINNING WHEEL SERIES
A great intro to the pottery wheel! Students learn to throw various shapes, surface decorate and glaze. Book on our website to save spot. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Aug. 19 $275. app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule. php?owner=22676824&appointmentTy pe=77943567. A great intro to the pottery wheel! Students learn to throw various shapes, surface decorate and glaze. Book through the link to save a spot. Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through Aug. 19 $275. app. acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owne r=22676824&appointmentType=77943668. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions,
but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing (805) 8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/ foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/babyhandprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
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.
DEANNA BARAHONA California artist
Deanna Barahona’s work centers her lived experiences, identity, and personal objects in intimate and domestic spaces through the creation of sculpture, and installation. Through Aug. 31, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/deannabarahona/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad 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.
FREE MOVIE NIGHT IN THE SECRET
GARDEN: THE FAST & THE FURIOUS (2001)
Bring a blanket, grab your favorite Secret Garden snacks, and settle in for this feel-good road trip full of fierce fashion, big laughs, and even bigger heart. It’s the perfect way to kick off a summer evening, bold, joyful, and totally fabulous. July 18 , 8-10 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. Sycamore
Mineral Springs Resort and Spa, 1215 Avila Beach Drive, 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.
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. SLO REP’S ACADEMY OF CREATIVE THEATRE SUMMER CAMPS Registration is open for the summer theatre camps at SLO REP. They are week-long camps for ages five to 18. Scholarships are available. Mondays. through Aug. 4 $230. (805) 781-3889. slorep.org/education/acttheatre-camps/. San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre, 3533 Empleo St., San Luis Obispo. SOMETHING’S FISHY FLORAL WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM In this workshop, you will receive step-by-step instruction for creating a beautifully detailed collage. Beginners are welcome and no experience is necessary. July 12 , 12-4 p.m. $45. (805) 478-2158. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
TRISH ANDERSEN Combining fibers gathered from field, sheep, and those developed in a factory, Andersen proves that there is always room for both the vibrant and muted. Through Sept. 14, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/trish-andersen/. San
of
1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
Luis Obispo Museum
Art,
PHOTO COURTESY OF PRESQU’ILE WINERY
GROWING GROUNDS TURNS 25!
Since 2000, this one-of-a-kind program has made a positive impact on our community—growing plants and people. We have provided employment and vocational training to over 1,000 adults living with the challenges of mental illness, and provide fresh produce and beautiful cut flowers to the community who shop our farm stand each week. There is so much to celebrate— we have a big party planned and you are all invited!
Saturday July 19 12:00PM–4:00PM FREE
WHAT IS A SOCIAL ENTERPRISE?
THE SIMPLE DEFINITION:
a business that puts the interests of people and planet ahead of shareholder gain. In practice, a social enterprise is a challenging balancing act: a business that must be both a viable commercial enterprise and a human services program with true community impact.
The idea behind Growing Grounds was to combine the therapeutic elements of gardening and outdoor work with the critical need for employment opportunities for a vulnerable population. Growing Grounds, a program of TransitionsMental Health Association, is more than just a paycheck—it’s a place to go, one that provides a sense of purpose.
CALIFORNIA’S FIRST SOCIAL ENTERPRISE? None other than TMHA’s Growing Grounds Enterprises!
TMHA Wellness Centers
Are YOUR Community Resource
Would you like support through a difficult time? Are you feeling isolated? Do you wish you could meet people who understand what you’re going through?
TMHA Wellness Centers are designed to provide a safe, welcoming, and supportive meeting place where people working on their mental wellness have the opportunity to engage in support groups, educational activities, recreation, and meaningful interaction with their peers. Come join us for:
Stomping Out Anxiety
Art for Wellness
Women’s Group
Walking 4 Wellness
And so much more. We offer coffee, meals, and distributions from the food bank. Use this QR code for the latest calendar of events.
10AM–3PM
9PM–3PM
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
2 ACROSS A man and a woman, the only passengers on a late night BART commuter train, are both working on the New York Times crossword puzzle. They exchange a few word clues and eventually a few personal stories, leading to a potential romance. Watch the ensuing scenes play out at By The Sea Productions. July 11 -12, 7 p.m. and July 13 3 p.m. $28. my805tix.com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.
ART LIFE COACHING:CREATIVE EXPRESSIONS: ART JOURNALING
Blending expressive art with gentle life coaching principles, this class invites seniors to explore their stories, values, and dreams through mixed media art journaling. Get tickets and more info at the link. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-noon through July 15 $20. my805tix.com. Lor Coaching Studios, 525 Harbor St., Morro Bay.
COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY
Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint. com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.
COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. (559) 799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.
DRAWING ABSTRACT AND PATTERN PLAY: FOCUS ON ZENTANGLE® AND CREATIVE FLOW Unleash your creativity and experience the joy of drawing in this 6-week course designed especially for seniors. Drawing for Joy and Discovery invites participants into a world of abstract art, expressive mark-making, and meditative pattern play rooted in the Zentangle® method. Each week, you’ll explore drawing techniques that promote relaxation, focus, and personal expression. No prior drawing experience is needed. Tuesdays, 1-4 p.m. through July 15 $20. my805tix.com. Lor Coaching Studios, 525 Harbor St., Morro Bay.
FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.
GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE
PRESENTS JEWELRY & ART BY HOPE MYERS Award-winning artist Hope Myers blends her love of watercolor and jewelry. Her work recently has been focused on more elegant, refined pieces. See it in the gallery, open daily. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS OIL PAINTINGS BY PATRICIA NEWTON Oil Painter
Patricia Newton’s current body of work has been inspired by the powerful movement of the sea and its magnificent coastline. See Newton’s work at the gallery, which is open daily. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Patricia Newton loves the Central Coast; its green rolling hills and endlessly crashing waves always provide inspiration for her oil paintings. Her work will be displayed daily at the Gallery at Marina Square. Through July 30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com.
Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY SIRAGUSA
Photographer Greg Siragusa captures scenes from around Morro Bay and beyond. Discover his photography of otters, birds, landscapes, and seascapes at the gallery, which is open daily. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com.
Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
JEWELRY, SMALL WORKS, AND ART BY HOPE MYERS Hope Myers has been creating art, jewelry ,and more on the Central Coast for a long time. Rediscover her great many artworks at the Gallery Gallery at Marina Square. Through July 30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com.
Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
SPIKY SHOW
The Central Coast Cactus & Succulent Society will host its 17th annual Cactus and Succulent Show and Sale at Nipomo High School on Saturday, July 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, July 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free with dozens of vendors, hundreds of specimen plants, and handmade pottery. For more information, visit centralcoastcactus.org. —A.S.
JULY ARTISTS RECEPTION AND ATRIUM PARTY FOR GREG SIRAGUSA, PATRICIA NEWTON AND HOPE MYERS Head to the Gallery at Marina Square to meet the month’s featured artists, discover new art, and be amazed. July 12 3-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY SIRAGUSA
Greg Siragusa is eternally searching for the sublime, and his photography represents life as he sees it –– colorful, dynamic, interesting, and mindful. See his work at Gallery at Marina Square. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
WATERCOLOR PAINTING: EXPRESSIVE TECHNIQUES FOR ALL ABILITIES
Discover the beauty and versatility of watercolor in this 6-week class designed for all experience levels—from beginners picking up a brush for the first time to seasoned artists looking to expand their
expressive range. Each 3-hour session will blend guided instruction, hands-on exercises, and open studio time to help you build skills and confidence. Get tickets and more info at the link. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. through July 14 $20. my805tix.com. Lor Coaching Studios, 525 Harbor St., Morro Bay.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
BULLDOG EXPRESS WORKSHOPS
Bulldog Express workshops will be available to assist Allan Hancock College students with free enrollment support and financial aid information starting June 23 at both the Santa Maria campus and Lompoc Valley Center. Workshops will be held at the Student Services Building A
on the Santa Maria campus, on Mondays and Tuesdays, from June 23 to August 12, from 3 to 6 p.m. At Lompoc Valley Center, they will be held in Building 1 on June 30, July 15, July 21, and August 5, from 3 to 6 p.m. More information can be found at the link. Through Aug. 12, 3-6 p.m. Free. hancockcollege.edu/. Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.
FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt. org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.
GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing (805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY FAIR An annual summer tradition in Santa Maria that features live entertainment, carnival rides, games, and more. Through July 13 santamariafairpark.com/events. Santa
Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., 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.
SATURDAY CRAFTWORKS: CRAFT BAZAAR Get creative and make something uniquely you! This workshop is free, and all materials are provided. Registration is required, for patrons 18 and older. July 12 , 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/ services/departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
FAMILY COOKING CLASSES WITH A-Z COOKING SCHOOL
Bring the family together to learn side-by-side how to prepare delicious meals. Classes are tailored for children and teens with a family adult. Second Monday of every month, 5:30-7 p.m. through Nov. 10 Adults $33; Children 5-16 $23. (805) 214-1213. santaynezvalleygrange.org/ calendar/?month=7&yr=2025. Santa Ynez Valley Grange Hall, 2374 Alamo Pintado, Los Olivos.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
SUMMER “MOVIES IN THE PARK” SERIES The city of Lompoc’s Parks and Recreation Division will host three free movies for community members throughout the summer at Ryon Memorial Park. The first will be Moana 2 and screened in June, followed by Dog Man in July and Minecraft in August. July 12 , 8 p.m. (805) 736-1261. cityoflompoc.com. Ryon Memorial Park, Lompoc, CA, Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
17TH ANNUAL CACTUS AND SUCCULENT SHOW AND SALE The Central Coast Cactus & Succulent Society is hosting its 17th Annual Succulent Show and Sale, featuring a dozen vendors and hundreds of specimen plants. More info is available at the link. July 19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and July 20, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. centralcoastcactus.org. Nipomo High School, 525 N Thompson Ave, Nipomo. BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. ongoing Starts at $70. (805) 835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/.
How it Works:
On-Demand wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV) brought to you by Care Connection Transport Services powered by Santa Barbara County
Service Hours:
Mon-Fri: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm Sat-Sun: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Service Details:
Scan the QR code to download the app or book online $2.00 per mile
Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.
BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. (970) 710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com. 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.
FIND WALDO LOCAL IN ARROYO GRANDE Staring July 1, join the hunt to find Waldo in local businesses in Arroyo Grande. To participate, pick up a stamp card from Monarch Books. The first 125 seekers who get 10 stamps can return to Monarch Books for a Waldo sticker and a coupon. Seekers who collect 20 or more stamps will have the opportunity to enter a grand-prize drawing. Through July 31, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. (805) 668-6300. monarchbooks805.com. Monarch Books, 201 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande. FRIENDS OF THE NIPOMO LIBRARY BOOK SALE Arrive early in the morning for the best selection of adult fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books, along with jigsaw puzzles and CDs/DVDs. Cash only. July 12 , 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (805) 9293994. friendsofnipomolibrary.org/. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo. 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. new.nawcc.org/index.php/chapter52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano. POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
FLO RIDA
JULY 16
CODY JOHNSON
JULY 19
DAVID LEE ROTH
JULY 22
DON FELDER
JULY 25
JON PARDI JULY 17 311 W/IRATION
JULY 18
JUNTOS JULY 20 RED CLAY STRAYS
BAILEY ZIMMERMAN JULY 23
COUNTRY RODEO FINALS
JULY 26
JULY 21
KEITH URBAN
JULY 24
MONSTER TRUCK MADNESS
JULY 27
CMSF PAGEANT
July 16 @ 6PM
MARIACHI LOS CAMPEROS
July 19
July 22
STEPHEN PEARCY
July 17
MASON RAMSEY
July 20
DOCKSIDERS
July 23
July 25
HERMAN’S HERMITS W/PETER NOONE
July 18
July 26
July 21
July 24
July 27
BLACK VIOLIN
REGULO CARO
WAYLON WYATT
JORDAN FELIZ
KYLIE MORGAN
MISS
TAYLOR SHINES LASER
QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.
QI GONG: MINDFUL MOVEMENTS FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY
Balance your mind, body, and spirit with Qi Gong — gentle stretching and strengthening movements that promotes physical wellbeing and inner peace. This is geared towards all fitness levels and ages. Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo 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.
SURF LESSONS ALL SUMMER LONG Learn to surf with Sandbar Surf School.
All equipment is provided, including a surfboard, wetsuit, and leash. You must pre-register. Through Aug. 31, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $60. (805) 835-7873. sandbarsurf.com. Addie Street Surfer Parking Lot, Addie Street, Pismo Beach.
WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS
Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. (805) 481-6399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
39TH ANNUAL CENTRAL COAST
RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL Step into the captivating allure of the Elizabethan era with two days packed with shows and performances. Visit site for tickets and more info. July 19 and July 20 $39. ccrenfaire.com. Laguna Lake Park, 504 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo. CIRCUS VARGAS PRESENTS “HOLLYWOOD DREAMS” AN HOMAGE TO TINSELTOWN’S GOLDEN AGE! See Circus Vargas’ “Hollywood Dreams!” an homage to Tinseltown’s Golden Age! This circus celebration is inspired by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s hay day. Experience the magic and get tickets and more info at the link. Mondays, Wednesdays-Sundays. through July 14 $25 - $85. circusvargas.com. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., 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.
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.
SLO WILD CAMP - CREEK LANDS
CONSERVATION Creek Lands
Conservation’s SLO Wild Camp program welcomes Central Coast youth to get outside and connect with our home watersheds. Kids will learn through lenses of nature connection, western science, traditional ecological knowledge, holistic land stewardship, and our own curiosities.
This camp is open to children ages 12 to 14. Through July 18 $550. my805tix.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
TECH BREW MEETUP Tech Brew is a free networking event where people interested in technology can hang out in an informal environment with a small TEDtalk-like presentation from an interesting speaker. Learn more online. Second Monday of every month, 5-7 p.m. (805) 323-6706. meetup.com/softec/. StoryLabs, 102 Cross St, Suite 220, San Luis Obispo.
TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 540-6576. t-mha. org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
FOOD & DRINK
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
BEER YOGA AT NAUGHTY OAK Start your Sunday with Jenn’s Beer Yoga. She will lead you through the most fun you’ll ever have at yoga. Bring a mat and be ready to sip on your favorite N/O brew while you stretch and find some zen. Your $20 ticket includes your first beverage. July 13 11 a.m.-noon $22. my805tix.com. Naughty Oak Brewing Company, 165 South Broadway, Orcutt.
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.
GIAVANNI’S COMEDY NIGHT Experience this feature-length comedy show, hosted by Ezra’s Rockin’ Entertainment, at Giavanni’s Pizza in Orcutt. Featuring co-headliners Daniel Eachus and Patrick Riley, with support by Vic Pulido and Sarah Samaniego. July 12 , 8 p.m. $24. my805tix.com. Giavanni’s Pizza, 1108 E Clark Ave, Orcutt, (805) 934-8555.
OLD TOWN ORCUTT SUMMER
FARMER’S MARKET Get fresh produce and locally made goods, while enjoying entertainment and more in Old Town Orcutt. More info is available at the link. Third Wednesday of every month, 4:30-7:30 p.m. through Sept. 18 Free. oldtownorcutt.org/otora-farmers-market. Old Town Orcutt Farmers Market, Marcum Street, Orcutt, (805) 471-5384.
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) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER
Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check
Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/ orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO
TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head
Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES
Join to expand your knowledge of the fermentation process and get started fermenting at home. We alternate between demonstration and hands-on classes. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30-$50. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. New
topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home. Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 8016627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.
MUSIC
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS GROWING GROUNDS FARM 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Growing Grounds Farm celebrates its 25th Anniversary with live music, food, local vendors, farm tours, and a special chopped food challenge! July 19, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 934-2182. Growing Grounds Farm’s 25th Anniversary features local vendors, food trucks, live music, and farm tours. This event is free and open to the public. July 19 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 934-2182. Growing Grounds Farm, 820 W. Foster Rd., Santa Maria, t-mha.org.
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.
HAPPY HOUR WITH PI JACOBS Enjoy house-made pizzas, wines, and live music by Pi Jacobs. There will be Americana grit, bluesy soul, and laid-back vibes all evening at Presqu’ile. July 11 5-7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 937-8110. presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria.
THE KILLER DUELING PIANOS AT THE STOCKYARD Enjoy a night of live performance from this comedic duo of
Don’t miss the 39th annual Central Coast Renaissance Festival on Saturday, July 19, and Sunday, July 20, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Stroll the grounds of San Luis Obispo’s Laguna Lake Park while shopping at vibrant marketplaces, and step into the bygone Elizabethan era as battles and performances take place around you. Tickets are $39 through my805tix.com.
—A.S.
talented pianists who are set to perform a wide range of hits, from Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, to Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga. Get tickets and more info at the link.
July 12 , 6:30-9:30 p.m. $10. my805tix.com.
Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S. Broadway St., Orcutt, (805) 934-3777.
THE KILLER DUELING PIANOS See The Killer Dueling Pianos, the comedic duo of talented pianists who are set to perform a wide range of hits, from Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, to Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga. Get tickets and more info to this all-ages show at the link. July 12 , 6-9 p.m. $13. my805tix.com. The Stockyard, 241 S Broadway St, Orcutt.
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 AND FOOD BY LOBO BUTCHER SHOP Check out live music every Friday night from a variety of artists at Steller’s Cellar in Old Orcutt. Dinner served by Lobo Butcher Shop between 5 and 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 5-9 p.m. Varies according to food options. (805) 623-5129. stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR
Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 623-5129, stellerscellar.com.
MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY
Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. 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
LEFT
together on 10th Ave. in Bozeman, MT in 2016. Hear them live at the Solvang Festival Theater. July 20, 3-5 p.m. $37. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest.org/ show-listing. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.
LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
THE STORYTELLERS The Storytellers is a prominent progressive bluegrass band that has established itself as a creative force in the Southern California Roots Music scene. Hear them live at the Solvang Festival Theater. July 13 , 3-5 p.m. $37. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest. org/show-listing. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.
WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
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.
LIVERPOOL LEGENDS “THE COMPLETE BEATLES EXPERIENCE” Grammynominated and internationally-acclaimed Liverpool Legends will be at Lobero Theatre. Hear them live and get tickets at the link. July 12 , 7:30-9:30 p.m. $44.50$74.50. (805) 963-0761. lobero.org/events/ liverpool-legends/. Lobero Theater, 33 E Canon Perdido St,, Santa Babara.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
2025 LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE CONCERT SERIES Head to the Point San Luis Lighthouse in Avila Beach for Saturday afternoon concerts. Get tickets and more info at the link. Through Oct. 11. $28. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
ARROYO GRANDE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES These free concerts will begin on July 4 and run every Sunday until September 21. Sundays, 1-3 p.m. through Sept. 21 Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/events. Heritage Square Park, 201 Nelson St., Arroyo Grande. CARBON CITY LIGHTS - LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE July 12 2:30-5 p.m. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
KARAOKE AT SLO COUNTY’S ONLY FILIPINO CAFE Join for all day, all ages karaoke hosted at SLO County’s only brick and mortar Filipino cafe, Lumpia Bros Cafe. Enjoy karaoke, filipino dishes, acai, and coffee. Tuesdays-Saturdays-6 p.m. through Dec. 31 Free. (805) 202-8473. Lumpia Bros Cafe, 1187 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
THE LOUNGE AT BESO An upscale afterhours nightclub experience. With limited capacity and a dress code. For ages 21 and over. Fridays, 10 p.m. my805tix.com. Beso Cocina, 1050 Willow Road, Nipomo.
PACIFIC BREEZE CONCERTS The City of Pismo Beach Recreation Division proudly presents the Pacific Breeze Concerts at Dinosaur Caves Park. Family activities and food will be for purchase. July 13 , 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 773-7063. pismobeach.org/73/ Recreation. Dinosaur Caves Park, 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach. SLO COUNTY BAND THURSDAY NIGHT SUMMER CONCERTS Join in on the fun at these free Thursday night concerts with the Slo County Band. Bring your lawn chairs! Second Thursday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. through Sept. 11 Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/events. Rancho Grande Park, 500 James Way, Arroyo Grande.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
BOBBY JOE EBOLA AND THE CHILDREN MACNUGGITS, MUGSLUG, BANDWIDTH, AND NT4DB LIVE Anomaly House is proud to present a “noisy afternoon of punk rock strangeness” with various punk and hardcore bands. Get tickets and more info to this all-ages show at the link. July 13 , 3 p.m. $11. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974.
AN EVENING WITH LEGEND ZEPPELIN Travel back in time to the ‘70s with Legend Zeppelin. Have a one-of-a-kind night and see them live. Tickets are available at the link. July 12 7 p.m. $27. slobrew.com. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.
SLO TRIBUTE TO MERLE HAGGARD & IRIS DEMENT Performers will include Will Breman, Zoe FitzGerald Carter, Jonathan Low-Fi, Bradly Coats, Maurice Tani, Jubal Jake, James Combs, and Familiar Strangers. Hosted by Steve Key. July 12 , 7-10 p.m. $20. (805) 204-6821. songwritersatplay.com/events. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo. m
VALLEY
ARTS BRIEFS
Dirty Cello brings blues, rock, classical music to Solvang’s
Lost Chord Guitars
A globetrotting blues, rock, and Americana band will take the stage in Solvang on July 25.
With a set list ranging from Jimi Hendrix to Charlie Daniels, Dirty Cello will perform at Lost Chord Guitars at 8 p.m. Instead of a guitarist, cellist Rebecca Roudman leads the band.
“We’re all about the fun at our shows,” she said in press materials. “We step onstage with only a vague plan as to what specific songs we are going to play. We react to what the audience wants to hear and adjust accordingly.”
Oakland magazine described Dirty Cello’s music as “funky, carnival, romantic, sexy, tangled, electric, fiercely rhythmic, textured, and occasionally classical.” Cloverdale Reveille called it a mix of “blues, bluegrass, and world music sounds with roots in the world of European classical music.”
The San Francisco-based band has played all over the world, from China to Iceland to Italy to a Santa Cruz nudist resort. Whatever the venue, Dirty Cello promises to get your heart thumping and your toes tapping.
Lost Chord Guitars is located at 1576 Copenhagen Drive. For more information, call (805) 331-4362. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at lostchordguitars.com/shows/ dirty-cello.
Guadalupe
Buddhist Church hosts annual Obon festival to honor ancestors
Savor Japanese cuisine, partake in traditional dance, and bask in the Taiko drummers’ traditional booms.
The Guadalupe Buddhist Church will host its annual Obon festival July 27 from 12 to 6 p.m. at the Santa Maria Veterans’ Memorial Building.
Join community members in the sea of smiles and colorful kimonos to honor Japanese Buddhist ancestors’ spirits. Similar to Día de los Muertos, Obon is about keeping loved ones’ souls alive.
Chicken, udon, sushi, and strawberry shortcake will be on the menu, and the festival will also include martial arts performances from the Rising Sun Martial Arts Academy and a bonsai demonstration. There’ll also be $5 raffle tickets and a silent auction to bid on unique cultural items.
The Santa Maria Veterans’ Memorial Building is located at 313 W. Tunnell St. The festival is family friendly. Parking and admission are both free. For more information, call (805) 3431053 or email guadalupebuddhistchurch@gmail.com. m
Arts Briefs is compiled by Staff Writer Reece Coren.
rcoren@santamariasun.com.
When
pen meets pad
Chumash artist John Khus has been keeping the spirits of his Central Coast ancestors alive for more than four decades. You can find him on Instagram @john.khus.
Korea and Vietnam, he served three years in the Marine Corps and three years in the Army from 1983 to 1989, going to Panama for jungle survival training with the 82nd Airborne Division right before Operation Just Cause, the United States’ invasion of Panama on Dec. 20, 1989.
“I still did art when I was in the military,” Khus said. “When I was out in the field, I’d take every opportunity to sketch and draw.”
Pieces like Pig Gunner showcase his preferred pen-on-paper style and his turbulent time in the armed forces.
Fist and feather
Chumash illustrator John Khus highlights cultural heritage, fight for social justice with colorful imagery, black-and-white political statements
BY REECE COREN
Afaceless Statue of Liberty with flowing, black hair dons a colorful array of Indigenous tattoos. The white “Be Human” book she holds in her right hand matches the shackle around her left ankle, chaining her to the pile of skulls on which she stands.
Her blank head looks back at the viewer, while her naked, Rubenesque body faces the U.S. Capitol, which is turning into an army of police drones flashing red and blue lights. The abendrot sky surrounding the drones abruptly turns to a mix of indigo, burgundy, vermilion, and marigold as the body of water that separates her from the Capitol reflects a rainbow.
Central Coast Chumash artist John Khus has been depicting Native imagery for more than four decades. Known for his black-and-white illustrations that combine several ideas, reactions, cultural images, and parts of a story into one image, he enjoys making political statements with his art.
“I named that piece Be Human because I don’t think that there’s anything more radical someone can do than just be human,” Khus said. “Once you’re human, you recognize the value of other humans, and you don’t keep silent.”
While he likes to play with color for special projects, Khus said he feels most comfortable drawing with pen on paper. He said he started drawing because his mom would carry legal pads and pens while attending law school in San Francisco during his youth in the ’70s.
Instead of accepting a scholarship from the San Francisco Art Institute, Khus joined the military after high school. Influenced by uncles who fought in
Coined during the Vietnam War to describe soldiers who carry the M60 machine gun—which earned the nickname due to its heavy weight—Khus’ pig gunner stands on a body of screaming helmeted skulls mashed together with soldiers, bullets, guns, knives, flames, and a fighter plane. His blank, white eyes and eerie smile highlight the annihilation and suffering captured in the piece.
Another political drawing, Khus’ Election [on stolen land] Day shows a man without skin on his face holding his left eyeball in his hand as blood with the words “obey” and “consume” spill from his socket and gums, respectively.
Khus’ Semper Fidelis illustration, a tribute to his time in the Marine Corps, depicts a spirit of resistance and cultural preservation.
In it, Khus reimagined the Pulitzer Prizewinning photograph, Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima, to depict Indigenous Americans raising a flag that says “Native,” while standing on a bed of rock that reads: “the land,” “the people,” and “our future.”
Always thinking of his Native heritage, Khus loves to include specific, little-known cultural references in his work. His Hatuey Ascended to the Ancestors by Refusing the Lies piece reimagines the tale of the rebellious Indigenous chief burned at the stake.
After initially struggling with whether to
depict Chumash rock art in his illustrations, Khus said his mother told him to design his own. His Modern Rock Artist depicts a traditional Chumash cave painter wearing the suit of a present-day businessman.
“If I ever wear a suit, view it as the chains of colonial society and count me amongst the dead. It will never happen again,” Khus wrote in an Instagram post sharing the piece.
“Stay strong. Stay free. Stay human,” his post continued.
Embodying the collective spirit of his Chumash ancestors, Khus also creates illustrations to give back to his Central Coast community.
In August 2023, he designed the Tomol Rides Wishtoyo mural at the Cambria Post Office with the help of Beautify Cambria and the local Chumash community.
A Chumash elder watches human spirits in a traditional tomol, or canoe, pass over the Wishtoyo, also known as the rainbow bridge, to join their ancestors. Along with the black-and-white rock painting and violet swordfish, Chumash symbols speckle the mural, depicting spirits like the indigo chief carrying a child in her womb, blue moon, yellow sun, green lizard chief, orange grandfather, and red artist.
In April 2024, Khus unveiled his mural collaboration with the SLO Beaver Brigade at what’s now known as the Central Coast Zoo in Atascadero. Three beavers sit at the grassy center of the painting divided into thirds by wooden dam partitions. The waterway and sunrise scenes beside them include a monarch butterfly, flame skimmers, a pelican, frogs, bass, and a lizard.
Last December, Khus curated the first Indigenous DNA: Decolonized Native Art exhibit in Santa Barbara, hosting dozens of local native artists’ pieces in the Olson Gallery of the Santa Barbara Community Arts Workshop for a week. He said he’s currently working on putting together a second exhibit for later this year.
“When I was growing up and looking out at the world, I realized [we] humans have an obligation to be a beneficial part of it,” Khus said. “Those encouragements come from my Chumash background.” m
Reach Staff Writer Reece Coren at rcoren@ santamariasun.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DIRTY CELLO
HOME OF THE BRAVE: Chumash artist John Khus’ Semper Fidelis or The Land, The People, Our Future piece is a tribute to his three years in the U.S. Marine Corps.
COURTESY IMAGE BY JOHN KHUS
PHOTO COURTESY OF GUADALUPE BUDDHIST CHURCH
COURTESY PHOTO BY JOHN KHUS
FLYING COLORS: John Khus completed his Tomol Rides Wishtoyo mural at the Cambria Post Office in August 2023. He said the mural is based on his painting of the same image, which the post office displays inside.
COURTESY PHOTO BY JOHN KHUS
GRAND DAM: John Khus unveiled his beaver mural at the Central Coast Zoo in April 2024.
Monster rehash
Gareth Edwards (Monsters, Godzilla, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story) directs this new installment in the Jurassic Park franchise. Written by David Koepp (Jurassic Park, Mission: Impossible, Spider-Man), the story involves de-extinct dinosaurs living on a remote island once used by InGen as a research facility. Pharmaceutical company ParkerGenix sends covert operator Zora Bennett (Scarlett Johansson) and paleontologist Dr. Henry Loomis (Jonathan Bailey) on a secret mission to retrieve biomaterials from the three largest prehistoric creatures living on the island. (134 min.)
Glen: Judging by the theater full of excited kids, this is the best film ever made! Of course, it helps if you’re too young to have seen all the films that came before it. I, on the other hand, have watched all eight of the films in the franchise, including the 10-minute short, Battle at Big Rock (2019). As a seasoned Jurassic Parker, I found this newest installation to be predictably derivative. Got to have imperiled children, right? Cue the Delgado family making a transatlantic journey in a sailboat that gets capsized by a Mosasaurus, which—hey!—is one of the three creatures Bennett and her team must track and get blood samples from. Need an evil company man who puts profits ahead of people. Meet ParkerGenix stooge Martin Krebs
SIRENS
What’s it rated? TV-MA
When? 2025
Where’s it showing? Netflix
(Rupert Friend). Gotta have a bigger and badder dino, right? May I present Distortus rex, a mutant Tyrannosaurus rex with six limbs? Will dinos stalk humans in confined spaces? Of course! Will there be a scene of music-swelling wonderment in the presence of gigantic but gentle herbivores? Duh! If you think the eighth film in the franchise will reinvent the wheel, think again. That said, this is a classic summer blockbuster.
JURASSIC WORLD REBIRTH
What’s it rated? PG-13
What’s it worth, Anna? Matinee
What’s it worth, Glen? Matinee
Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards RPX Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande
Anna: Thank God that Distortus Rex got to keep his little tiny T-Rex arms and also grow big ol’ steroid bro arms through his mutations—it truly creates something much less dinosaur and much more monster in appearance. These films can’t help themselves from getting increasingly ridiculous, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t still fun. I was a kid when the first came out, and a dino-loving kid at that. It holds a special place in my heart. Even the second and third films will always have a spot on my DVD shelf. Then the franchise took a big break, and when it returned, I couldn’t help but feel the sequels had lost the plot. With Jurassic World in 2015, there was some excitement for brand reinvigoration, and it was decent. Since then, the plotlines have spiraled in ridiculous ways, but hey—am I going to see every one of these films in the theater? You bet. It may not be the comfort food for me that the original is,
but Jurassic World: Rebirth is the epitome of a summer blockbuster, and there’s no better way to see those than on the big screen in air conditioning.
Glen: Mahershala Ali as Duncan Kincaid, the boat captain who brings the team into dangerous waters, is always terrific, imbuing Duncan with warmth. He and Zora have a long history together. ScarJo came across as a credible covert operator, and Audrina Miranda as Isabella, the youngest of the Delgado family, was appropriately scared to death. Look, none of the sequels have topped the original, but for
sheer spectacle, they’re usually worth watching. Anna: They have the formula and characters down, and the brand has enough money behind it to pack the screen with stars. Spectacle is a key word here, and this experience doesn’t fall short. I’d rather pay matinee prices for this overblown type of film, but it’s worth an afternoon in the theater. If you’ve liked what they’ve given you before, put this on your list to see this summer. m
Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Split Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
Based on show creator Molly Smith Metzler’s 2011 play Elemento Pea , Sirens is set over the course of a long weekend in one of those beach communities whose only non-millionaire visitors are the workers who drive in to serve the uber rich homeowners and guests.
Devon (Meghann Fahy) is freshly out of a night in jail and desperate for some help with her father (Bill Camp), who’s slipping further into dementia. She’s also trying to figure out what’s going on with her sister, Simone (Milly Alcock), who seems to be increasingly obsessed with her boss, one of those uber rich homeowners named Michaela “Kiki” Kell (Julianne Moore).
Devon tracks down her sister to the fictional town of Port Haven, and in a bid to garner help caring for her dad she attempts to bring Simone home. Once surrounded by the strange world of riches and manipulation, Devon herself is drawn into Kiki’s orbit. This dark comedy has star power with Moore as well as Kevin Bacon as her husband, Peter, plus the great character actor Camp, and both Alcock and Fahy, whose
THE OLD GUARD 2
What’s it rated? R When? 2025
Where’s it showing?
Netflix
If you want to see Charlize Theron ( Mad Max: Fury Road Atomic Blonde) and Uma Thurman ( Kill Bill Vol. 1 and 2 ) square off in epic hand-to-hand combat, step right up to this sequel to The Old Guard (2020), based on Greg Rucka’s graphic novel series. Like the Gina Prince-Bythewood-directed original, this one’s helmed by female director Victoria Mahoney.
The story focuses on Andromache “Andy” of Scythia (Theron), who leads a group of immortals on dangerous missions to safeguard humanity. If you haven’t seen the original, start there. The backstory is essential.
bickering has sister vibes written all over it. This one is a fun binge for the right audience. (five approximately onehour episodes.)
—Anna
The original cast is back, including Quynh (Veronica Ngo), which we learned in the first was Andy’s centuries-long companion who was accused of witchcraft, sealed in a metal coffin, and cast into the sea to drown, reanimate, and drown again. She’s found and recused from her watery torture by Discord (Thurman), the original immortal, who apparently is no longer interested in safeguarding humanity.
It’s an entertaining supernatural action flick with fight
DINO REDUX: Covert operator Zora Bennett (Scarlett Johansson, left) is recruited by pharmaceutical company ParkerGenix to aid paleontologist Dr. Henry Loomis (Jonathan Bailey) on a secret mission, in Jurassic World Rebirth, screening in local theaters.
sequences that are better than the original. Brutal ballet. Hey, it’s no award-winner, but it’s not trying to be, and the ending tees up another sequel. (105 min.) m —Glen
PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX
PICTURE PERFECT: Simone (Milly Alcock, left) thinks she’s found the perfect job as personal assistant to uber-rich Michaela Kell (Julianne Moore, right) and her curated life, in Sirens, streaming on Netflix.
THERON V. THURMAN! Andromache “Andy” of Scythia (Charlize Theron) returns to lead her cadre of immortals on a mission to safeguard humanity, in The Old Guard 2, streaming on Netflix.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX
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to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
Ace-high
Wild West Pizza competes for top spot in the National Real California Cheese Pizza Competition
BY REECE COREN
Jay Turner is topped with barbecue sauce, bacon, marinated chicken breast, red onions, and ranch dressing. The Central Coast DJ’s namesake pizza is also a favorite of Wild West Pizza owner David Goldy, whose pizza has topped Turner’s charts for two decades.
“I can get a pepperoni or a Hawaiian [pizza] anywhere,” Turner said. “But I can’t get a Jay Turner Pizza anywhere.”
Turner said he’s been eating Goldy’s pizza for 20 years, even before Wild West existed.
“If I ever have an occasion to go to Lompoc, I always eat at Wild West,” Turner said. “Sometimes, I look for a reason to go out.”
Along with the artisanal sourdough crust made from scratch, the pizzeria
Real cheese, real ingredients
Wild West Pizza is open from 11 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 9:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Located at 1137 N. H St., suite W, the Lompoc mom-and-pop pizza shop is known for its unique pies. It can be found on Instagram @wildwestpizza and online at wildwestpizza.menu. For more information, call (805) 735-4000 or email david@wildwestpizzaoflompoc.com.
also offers thin, crispy crust and pan pizzas, Goldy said.
“We shred our own cheese and cut our own vegetables and pineapple every day,” he said. “We’re the only place I know of that actually roasts our jalapeños fresh every day, instead of using jalapeños from a can.”
Turner said the quality of Wild West’s pizzas separates it from its competitors.
“All pizzas are not created equally,” he said. “I just love their toppingsto-sauce ratio and style of pizza. It’s crunchy on the outside but light and fluffy on the inside.”
Wild West’s combos include the best-selling Sacajawea. Bacon and mac and cheese animate the City Slicker. Extra cheese and two layers of pepperoni dot the Snake Eyes.
Chicken, pineapple, ham, barbecue sauce, jalapeños, and red and green onions spice up the Haole.
Known for these combos and more, Lompoc’s Wild West Pizza recently became a finalist for this month’s California Milk Advisory Board’s National Real California Cheese Pizza Competition.
“You can go to any pizza place in America and get a pepperoni pizza,” Goldy said. “We have a menu that offers things you can’t find at other pizzerias.”
He’s not kidding. The Annie Oakley Pizza includes fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and country gravy. The Jalapeño Popper Pizza is more for customers with daring taste buds:
HOWDY, PARTNER: Wild West Pizza in Lompoc brings the spirit of the American frontier to the 21st century. Like the unique flavor combinations owner David Goldy offers, the food and atmosphere combine to give customers a one-of-akind experience.
A KICK OF CHICK: The Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza can’t be found on Wild West’s menu, and it’s available for a limited time only. The refreshing pickles and fiery chicken highlight one of Wild West’s endless flavor combinations.
25th Annual Best of Northern Santa Barbara County Readers
mozzarella and cheddar cheese on a thick layer of cream cheese with jalapeños, bacon, and a secret seasoning blend.
Calling the featured Smoke Signals and Sweet Talk Pizza “loaded” would be an understatement— raspberry chipotle cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, smoked brisket, roasted jalapeños, red onions, are topped with a raspberry chipotle barbecue sauce and fresh cilantro.
In June, Wild West Pizza was named the 2025 Hillshire Farm Great Pizza Give Back Contest’s grand prize winner in honor of Goldy’s dedication to community service.
Along with organizing fundraisers for Shadow’s Fund animal rescue service and the Children’s Montessori School, Goldy also hosted an anti-bullying contest in 2018 and gave Lompoc police ticket vouchers for free personal pizzas to give to residents who officers found doing positive things.
“If you were to run the numbers and figure out what member of the Lompoc Chamber of Commerce gives back the most of the community, I’d bet a week’s pay that David Goldy and Wild West Pizza would come out on top,” Turner said. “I’ve never seen philanthropy from a private business as much as him. I know it’s hard to do. People are trying to stay open, let alone give away free product. But [Goldy]
always seems to do it.”
During the National Real California Cheese Pizza Competition at the end of the month, Goldy will be focusing on the pies.
The contest will take place between July 28 and 30 at Napa’s Culinary Institute of America at Copia. Goldy will compete in the On the Menu category against pizza artisans from Pittsburgh, South Dakota, and California, according to the California Ag Network. The winner will receive $5,000 and compete against the other two category winners for a shot at an additional $5,000.
“He has the best crust, and he makes it fresh every day,” Turner said. “I’ve seen him do it.” m
Reach Staff Writer Reece Coren at rcoren@ santamariasun.com.
TALK SMOKY TO ME: Wild West’s Smoke Signals and Sweet Talk pizza includes raspberry chipotle cream cheese, smoked brisket, and roasted jalapeños.
