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Supergirl: nearly hits the mark [30]

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Fishers, scientists, and tribal leaders weigh in on Point Sal conservation area [6]

BY MADISON WHITE

Blue world NEWS

Del Cielo owners lose appeals [3]

ARTS

Nipomo-based Faultline hits its stride [28]

EATS

Figure Ate snacks win recognition [31]

Contents JULY 2 - JULY 9, 20 26

P

VOL . 2 7

NO. 19

oint Sal, a pristine slice of the Central Coast, may get added protective status thanks to the work of advocates with the Natural Resources Defense Council and the Northern Chumash Tribal Council. The two agencies are angling for a marine conservation area and recently petitioned the California Fish and Game Commission, which is expected to hold another hearing in August and give its verdict in October. Local fishing companies told the commission just how important the area is and are asking the state body to reject the proposal. Staff Writer Madison White got the lay of the land for the story [6].

Also, find stories about the county’s decision in the Del Cielo Mobile Estates arbitration case [3]; Nipomo band Faultline’s gigs near and far [28]; recognition awarded to local sustainably sourced snacks [31].

Andrea Rooks associate editor

BOUNTIFUL BEAUTY: Waters at Point Sal are home to kelp forests, sea lions, birds, whales, and young fish. The area is important to fishers and conservationists who differ in their opinions about adding further protections to that section of the sea.

Cover photo courtesy of Erin Eastwood > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

NEWS

News Briefs ..........................................................................3 Political Watch....................................................................3 Spotlight.................................................................................7

EVENTS CALENDAR

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

ARTS

Arts Briefs...........................................................................28

OPINION

Commentary ........................................................................8 Letters .....................................................................................8 Web Poll .................................................................................8 Modern World .....................................................................8 Canary .....................................................................................9

MOVIES

Reviews ...............................................................................30

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News POLITICAL WATCH •U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-California) recently secured $375,000 and $1 million in federal investments for the city of Lompoc and the city of Atascadero, respectively. Both investments support local emergency preparedness projects designed to protect against the threat of wildfires and prepare for other natural disasters. While the Lompoc funds will go toward the installation of an emergency generator at Dick DeWees Senior and Community Center, the Atascadero funds will help equip a new fire station, which will house an emergency operations center, according to Schiff’s office. “I’m very proud to have secured these federal investments for Central California families—part of the nearly $259 million I brought back to communities across California—to ensure that they are prepared for and have the emergency resources necessary in the face of a crisis,” Schiff said in a June 26 statement. “One of my top priorities in the Senate is protecting Californians from the threat of wildfires and ensuring we do all we can to prepare for and mitigate the risks of all natural disasters.”

•On June 25, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that the state has awarded $227 million in Proposition 64 grant funding to support different regional governments’ local efforts addressing the public health and safety impacts of cannabis legalization.

One of the grantees is Santa Barbara County, which Newsom’s office stated will use Proposition 64 funding to hire and train new detectives, purchase specialized equipment, and expand data analysis capabilities. Collectively, prior Proposition 64 grantees have demonstrated the impact of these investments while using funds to eradicate nearly 1 million illegal cannabis plants, seize 295 illegal firearms, and disrupt illicit cannabis operations that threatened public safety and undermined California’s regulated cannabis market, according to Newsom’s office. “The voters created a legal, regulated cannabis market, and we have a responsibility to make sure it works as intended,” Newsom said in a June 25 statement. “That means continuing to crack down on illegal cannabis operations that threaten public safety, exploit workers, damage the environment, and undercut legal businesses that follow the rules.

This funding gives local communities the resources they need to strengthen enforcement, prevent youth access, improve public health outcomes, and make neighborhoods safer.”

• Housing cost reduction policies co-introduced by U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) were included in the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which Congress passed on June 23. The new legislation enforces multiple provisions from the Decent, Affordable, Safe Housing for All (DASH) Act— co-introduced by Carbajal and U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle (D-Springfield, Oregon). These provisions include the expansion of access to rural housing vouchers so more low-income households can qualify when certain federally financed rural housing properties leave the program, and clarifications about how rural housing voucher amounts are calculated to prevent ambiguity about what assistance people will receive.

“For many Central Coast families, housing is their biggest monthly expense. Whether they’re renting or buying, housing costs have gotten out of control,” Carbajal said in a June 25 statement. “I co-led the introduction of the DASH Act with Congresswoman Hoyle to lower costs for renters and first-time homebuyers, help those experiencing homelessness, and incentivize the construction of more housing units. I’m proud that language from the DASH Act passed Congress, and I’ll keep working to get the rest of the legislation across the finish line.” The DASH Act, led by U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) in the Senate, aims to address the lack of affordable quality housing through policies that support families with children who are at risk of becoming homeless by improving services and access to housing vouchers. m

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➤ Spotlight [7] FILE PHOTO BY PIETER SAAYMAN

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A $45 million Department of War grant fuels Manzanita Charter upgrades

Within the next few years, hundreds of Lompoc students will reap the benefits of a new gymnasium, library, and kitchen at Manzanita Public Charter School. The first of three phases began in June as contractors prepared the site.

Construction is expected to take three years.

Lompoc Unified School District owns and operates the charter school’s facilities, which CLOSING ARGUMENTS: In-person audience members trickled in and out throughout the Jan. 21 arbitration hearing are located on Mountain (pictured), while attorneys and some witnesses participated via Zoom. In late June, the Santa Barbara County Board of View Boulevard on Supervisors reexamined a mediator’s verdict in a rent arbitration case that included eight hours of cross examination the opposite side of the between seven witnesses.

Cabrillo Highway as Vandenberg Space Force with Derrick’s labeling of a $20,000 broker’s Base. Renovations of this magnitude are new to Board of Supervisors commission as “a core expense,” rather than an the district. sides with arbitrator incidental expense, which ownership argued “It’s basically a fully modernized upgraded site in Del Cielo rent dispute should be allowed to be passed on to tenants as for the students of the area,” said Jon Bruenning, part of a rent increase.

While alleging that a third-party mediator the district’s bond project manager. “It modernizes “That one item is worth about $9 per space,” Del the learning environments, improves safety abused his authority, a local mobile home park Cielo ownership’s attorney, Jason Dilday, said at the systems, better climate control, updates the owner appealed to the Santa Barbara County appeal hearing. He asked the board to recompute Board of Supervisors to overturn the ruling in an technology infrastructure, [and] creates more that expense into the allowed increase, which he arbitration case. functional spaces for instruction and student said would bring the $24 total per unit to $33.

Following an eight-hour, in-person hearing support.”

Before seconding 5th District Supervisor in early 2026 and opportunities for written Because the campus is located at Vandenberg, Steve Lavagnino’s motion to deny the appeal, 3rd rebuttal, arbitrator John Derrick deemed $24 as the project qualified for a grant from the District Supervisor Joan Hartmann said it was an appropriate rent increase per space at Del Cielo Department of War that supplied three-quarters of clearly stated in both Derrick’s report and the Mobile Estates in Orcutt. the funds. The $45.4 million came from a program county ordinance itself that incidental expenses The park’s owner, Del Cielo Manufactured that contributes to renovating campuses serving are defined as necessary to the operations, Housing Community LLC, originally proposed a military families. maintenance, and/or repair of the mobile home $39 increase, which faced backlash from tenants An additional $14.6 million was pulled from the park. of the 180-unit mobile home park. Those tenants charter school, Lompoc Unified School District, Since the $20,000 broker’s commission then initiated the arbitration. and a California Charter School facilities grant, preceded the Del Cielo owner’s purchase of the Derrick gave his verdict in late March. The according to Vandenberg. park in 2024, county staff agreed that it shouldn’t Board of Supervisors reviewed ownership’s appeal “It’s definitely, I think, an exciting project, and be considered an incidental expense caused by during its final meeting of June, and unanimously we’re all eager to get it moving,” Bruenning said. operating or maintaining the park. upheld Derrick’s ruling.

When all three phases of the project are “Broker’s commissions are typically captured as complete, Manzanita students will have access to a “The board’s role is not to reweigh the evidence part of the purchase costs and are not included as or substitute its judgement on the appropriate new multi-purpose room, playgrounds, classrooms, an operating expense,” the staff report stated. amount of the rent increase,” County Counsel and a music center.

Lavagnino’s motion to side with staff and reject Rachel Van Mullem explained at the June 23 “Those are resources that are sorely needed the appeal passed 5-0. hearing. for modern schools and education,” Bruenning “[Derrick] did not abuse his discretion,” 4th She described the board’s objective as explained. “Just general overall improvements of District Supervisor Bob Nelson said. “I don’t see determining whether Derrick abused his student wellness and education access.” anything here that dissuades me.” discretion as an arbitrator in this case.

NEWS continued page 4 “An abuse of discretion is established when —Caleb Wiseblood COURTESY PHOTO BY SGT. KEVIN HERNANDEZ the board finds that the arbitrator either failed to proceed in a manner required by law, made a decision not supported by the findings, or made a finding not supported by substantial evidence,” she said.

Staff’s recommendation was to reject two separate appeal claims from Del Cielo’s owner.

The first appeal alleged that Derrick abused his authority while misinterpreting Santa Barbara County’s mobile home rent control ordinance, while the latter argued that Derrick mislabeled a key line item in Del Cielo’s summary of operating expenses.

Staff’s stance was that Derrick simply administered the county ordinance when he calculated the $24 increase and argued that the appeal on abuse of discretion was ultimately challenging the county ordinance.

“The issue … goes to the legality of the county’s ordinance itself,” county General Services Assistant Director Ted Teyber said, “and the arbitrator correctly notes in his decision that a constitutional challenge of the ordinance is outside MODERNIZATION: Manzanita Public Charter School is undergoing a three-year facilities upgrade of his role in administering the ordinance.” project that’ll deliver a new library, gym, music center, and more.

As for the line item disagreement, staff agreed www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 3

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LANDFILL CLOSED INDEPENDENCE DAY 2026 The Santa Maria Regional Landfill will be closed on Saturday, July 4, 2026, in observance of the Independence Day holiday.

It will reopen on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. and resume normal operating hours.

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The bulk of construction is planned for the summertime, but there’ll be periods when students are on campus with builders. Bruenning said the district’s priorities are maintaining student safety and minimizing disruptions.

Last academic year, around 528 elementary and middle schoolers were enrolled at Manzanita.

Between 25 to 35 percent live with their families on the base. In April, the Department of War announced that the grant is meant to address the school’s conditions after it was listed as No. 40 on the 2019 list of priority schools on military sites.

“It’s a substantial amount of money. It’s a substantial project,” Bruenning said. “To my knowledge, it’s fairly uncommon for a project of this size to happen in school districts in this area generally.”

He added that Lompoc Unified has another potential modernization project in the works at Crestview Elementary School, also on Vandenberg property.

—Madison White

Buellton boosts wastewater fees for homeowners No matter how often any given Buellton resident flushes their toilet, the monthly, fixed sewer rate for a single-family home increased by 95 percent between fiscal years 2025 and 2026— from a flat fee of $30.45 to $58.96.

July 1 marked the beginning of the next chapter in Buellton’s five-year plan to improve its wastewater reserve fund by gradually increasing sewer usage rates each fiscal year through 2030.

Enacted with a 5-0 vote from the Buellton City Council on June 25, the second batch of water bill increases went into effect on July 1. The shift bumped up the monthly $58.96 sewer rate for single-family homes to $82.54.

Despite the previous fiscal year’s increase, the

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city’s sewer expenditures for July 2025 to June 2026 exceeded its sewer rate revenue by nearly $400,000.

“When you look at the wastewater [stats], our revenues only came in at $1.5 million and our expenditures came in at $1.9 million,” Buellton Public Works Director Rose Hess told the council at its June 25 meeting. “So, we still took from our wastewater reserve fund and put it toward our expenditures.”

Hess added that within the five-year phase, staff estimated that Buellton “won’t really see the final impact” of improving the city’s wastewater reserve fund until fiscal year 2030. City Manager Scott Wolfe agreed.

“What we’re presenting to you right here is simply justification to the council, to the public, that that rate increase schedule that was adopted last year is still justified and should be moving forward,” Wolfe said. “While it’s clear that numbers are lower than what was projected, even if the numbers had been right on with the projection, that would still have indicated a need to increase the rates further.”

Mayor David Silva said that the council shouldn’t be surprised by the progress report that staff presented.

“We were, or were on our way to being, negative for the sewer rates. So, the intention is to have the revenues exceed expenses in a way that allows us to build those reserves back up,” Silva said. “It’s not just about breaking even. We do need … to build up the reserves that historically we were draining.”

After Councilmember Carla Mead motioned to approve the second fiscal year implementation of wastewater rate increases effective July 1, Councilmember Elysia Lewis seconded. The motion passed 5-0.

As drafted and adopted in 2025 via the five-year plan, the flat sewer charge for single-family homes is scheduled to reach $103.66 by fiscal year 2030. m —Caleb Wiseblood

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Despite resistance from fishermen, local advocates push for Point Sal to become a state marine conservation area

BY MADISON WHITE

north and Vandenberg Space Force Base to the south. Regulations wouldn’t allow for any fishing he coastal waters west of Santa Maria and Guadalupe are special, scientifically speaking. except for onshore activities with a hook and line and incidental takes resulting from critical They’re defined by the Point Sal headland, a Vandenberg missions. rugged coastline with access only via a strenuous The vision for the proposal began a few 11-mile round-trip hike. years ago. In a 2022 review, California found Though the waters are pristine on top, a that its marine protected areas (MPA) support biodiverse habitat is active beneath the surface.

Cliffs running east to west create a protected cove biodiversity and increase fish biomass, Aylesworth said. A year later the Fish and Game where young fish and invertebrates thrive. Calm Commission decided to accept petitions for waters protect them in their earliest and most changes to the network. vulnerable stage of life, drawing larger mammals Aylesworth and her team jumped on it. to feed there. “[We] began sort of scoping for potential Sandy Aylesworth, who’s worked with the candidate areas that we thought might warrant Natural Resources Defense Council for more additional protection, all along the California than a decade, has hiked the trail multiple coast,” Aylesworth said. times since taking “Point Sal emerged on the challenge of as a really special co-sponsoring the place with really conservation proposal. strong connections to “It is absolutely Chumash heritage and exhilarating to be out identity, and a place that there,” Aylesworth told was pristine and beloved the Sun. “When you’re by locals. It was for that hiking out on the trail, reason that we thought it’s a ridge trail, and it that Point Sal might be really feels as if you’re a promising area to have on a peninsula. To the a new marine protected south is Lion Rock … area.” where we saw the whale.

Point Sal is already Another time that I part of the federally was there, we saw three protected Chumash humpback whales.”

Heritage National Through binoculars Marine Sanctuary, she’s also seen sea lions but that designation swimming around the —Sandy Aylesworth, director of doesn’t prevent types small island of Lion Rock, where seabirds Pacific initiatives for the Natural of fishing that the like to breed and roost.

Resources Defense Council Natural Resources Defense Council and She said it’s an “aweother groups state are harmful to biodiversity inspiring” sight.

To preserve cultural significance and maintain conservation. For example, the marine sanctuary currently allows for trawling, which yields high a high level of biological diversity at Point Sal, amounts of bycatch, or accidental captures. two groups worked together to petition the state Chairwoman Violet Sage Walker of the for the title of marine conservation area. At the Northern Chumash Tribal Council spoke about May 5 California Fish and Game Commission the cultural importance of protecting the ocean meeting, Aylesworth and the chair of the during her May presentation to the Fish and Northern Chumash Tribal Council presented Game Commission. The former Guadalupe their arguments. Commissioners heard from resident said the efforts would also contribute to dozens of public commenters and stakeholders, California’s goal of conserving 30 percent of its including local fishermen who rely on the area land and coastal waters by 2030, known as the 30 and spoke against the conservation proposal.

Fish and Game commissioners are expected to by 30 Initiative.

“Ultimately sacrifices and things were made hold another hearing in August and approve or with the marine sanctuary designation that we deny the proposal in October. would like to see shore up better protections for Measuring just more than 9 square miles, the the biodiversity and for durable protections for proposed conservation area lies off the coast of the coastline. And this is one way that we can the Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve to the

T

‘Point Sal emerged as a really special place with really strong connections to Chumash heritage and identity, and a place that was pristine and beloved by locals. It was for that reason that we thought that Point Sal might be a promising area to have a new marine protected area.’

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GROWING A NETWORK: Petitioners pled their cases to the California Fish and Game Commission in May trying to earn Point Sal the title of a state marine conservation area. Later this year, they’ll find out if they were successful.

achieve that,” Sage Walker said. “It’s also to the benefit of the 30 by 30 and tribal co-management and tribal inclusion in managing our sacred areas and waters. … This area is pristine, precious, and very important to our family.”

Point Sal would still allow fishing with poles from the shore, like many Guadalupe residents and tribal members currently practice.

Aylesworth said the marine protections will create healthier fish habitats in nearby regions, but some fishers are against the proposed regulations.

Wayne Blicha owns and operates Flying Fish Sportfishing out of Port San Luis and said he’s opposed to the conservation proposal.

“I consider myself a marine steward, even though I’m a taker of the ocean. We look at Point Sal as being a very important habitat to us,” Blicha said at the May hearing.

With the already established marine protected areas off Point Buchon and Point Purisima, the fisherman said restrictions for his business activities are increasing.

“We have a very shrinking area that we’re able to access and more emphasis will be put on those smaller areas to fish,” Blicha added. “Point Sal represents a very important fishery to us and our clientele. It’s a high-demand area as well, so it will impact our business.”

Erik Rodrigues expressed similar views. As the captain of Avila Beach’s Patriot, he said his goal is to maintain balance while fishing.

“I just want to say the ocean has saved my life,” Rodrigues said. “It has given me an opportunity to save the lives of others.”

Rodrigues said he and his passengers have a passion for Point Sal and don’t want to overfish the

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area because they understand how “sacred” it is.

“With this imposed MPA it would cause too much pressure on our limited amount of reef structure, which is already taken away from us,” Rodrigues said. “So, if the goal of this MPA is to remove us from fishing, then it will work. But we would love to keep people fishing forever and show them the value of the ocean.”

Other locals perceive the conservation proposal differently. Stewards of the Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve, to the north of Point Sal, hope to see commissioners approve the petition. The nonprofit Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center hosts community hikes to Point Sal and teaches environmental education to students.

Saule Baipsys leads the center’s community engagement and volunteer events. She views her nonprofit as a liaison between the larger spearheading organizations and the locals on the ground.

“Guadalupe is really unique because it’s such an ecologically rich and amazing area, but it’s also simultaneously one of the only coastal California communities which is technically a disadvantaged community,” Baipsys told the Sun in June.

She believes a marine protected area designation would support the whole ecosystem while preserving natural resources for an underserved community.

“We have this incredible, unique, ecologically diverse area, but it’s not necessarily being advocated for or really celebrated,” Baipsys said. “So, honestly, any chance that we hear to conserve this area, protect this area, … we’re going to jump on it.” m

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Fostering flora

During last year’s competition, Leisa Swanson took home the award for best cactus novice, while Linda Hicks won best cactus advanced. The 2025 event also gave out accolades for best rookie cactus and best rookie entry succulent to Nick Fotinakas Central Coast Cactus and Succulent Society entry and Kim Leblanc, respectively.

Fotinakas’ “rookie entry” that year was an astrophytum holds 18th annual showcase and fundraiser myriostigma, while Leblanc’s was an agave victoriae reginae,

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD aka a white rhino. The 2025 competition also commended young participant David Westberg Jr. as the contest’s best youth grower. here’s something eye-catching about the cacti featured in an Meanwhile, one of Wilkinson’s awards in 2025 affirmed his upcoming Nipomo exhibition, beyond the prickly quality of their Cambria-based nursery’s reputation for specializing in rare and hair-like spines. unusual plants. His gonolobus cyclophyllus submission won the “The plants at this show are so diverse in size, shape, and color and many of them have a real sculptural presence that is fun to experience,” award for rarest plant in show last year.

“We have several links on our site that can help guide those that local business owner Nick Wilkinson said in an email interview. want to participate in preparing their plants for He’s a longtime participant of the Central the show,” said Wilkinson, who recommends Coast Cactus and Succulent Society’s annual Plant ahead that anyone interested in the event check out show and sale. This year marks the nonprofit’s Visit centralcoastcactus.org for more centralcoastcactus.org.

18th event, scheduled to take place on July 18 and info on the Central Coast Cactus and Consistent with all of the Central Coast 19 at Nipomo High School.

Succulent Society. The nonprofit’s 18th Cactus and Succulent Society’s programming, “The original intention for the event was to annual show and sale will take place at the annual fundraiser was envisioned as a way both educate the public about succulents and Nipomo High School on Saturday, July to encourage community members to consider cacti, and also use the sales of specialty plants 18, and Sunday, July 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., respectively. nurturing cacti and succulents for themselves as the primary fundraiser for the society,” Nipomo High School is located at 525 N. and provide beginner-friendly tips on the best Wilkinson said. “I have been a part of this club Thompson Ave., Nipomo. practices to do so for aspiring “cactophiles.” since its inception nearly 20 years ago, and this “Beyond the great plants and [handmade] event just keeps getting better and better. … [The pottery for sale, there are many experts that can help folks find the club] really works to provide a welcoming event for all.” right plant for their needs,” Wilkinson said. “Ultimately, I just want to Two decades back was also when Wilkinson’s plant nursery, convey how much the society is here to help people answer questions GROW, first opened its doors in Cambria. Each year that he’s about succulents and cacti.” participated in the Central Coast Cactus and Succulent Society’s fundraiser, he brings along about 20 different plant specimens from Highlights his nursery’s collection. “[We] will again be one of about a dozen vendors from throughout • In late June, the Santa Maria Town Center celebrated the the state that brings rare and unusual plants to sell at the event,” grand opening of its newest storefront, Hot Topic. The mall’s Wilkinson said. ownership, Spinoso Real Estate Group, welcomed the popular There are also competitions for participating green thumbs to take retail shop in a recent press release. “Hot Topic’s energy and part in, with award categories ranging from best Chihuahuan desert focus on self-expression align perfectly with the vibrant shopping cactus to best caudiciform, aka fat plant. experience we strive to create for our visitors,” Spinoso Real “The judged show [is] always a crowd favorite with an auction that Estate Group CEO Carmen Spinosa stated. “This addition happens on Saturday afternoon,” Wilkinson said. “The judging is set enhances our retail mix and introduces a nationally recognized up so that those who want to participate will only ever compete against brand that celebrates individuality.” Founded in 1989, Hot Topic those of their same level, and there are even rookie and kids categories.” has more than 600 locations across the country, including the

SPOTLIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CENTRAL COAST CACTUS AND SUCCULENT SOCIETY

T

GREEN SCENE: The Central Coast Cactus and Succulent Society’s annual show and sale at Nipomo High School features a wide variety of greenery and handmade pottery from growers and crafters across the state.

new Santa Maria Town Center outlet and its Pismo Beach location.

• Bakersfield-based company Line Dance Bako will host a beginner-friendly line dance class at the Cuyama Buckhorn in New Cuyama on Friday, July 3, from 7 to 9 p.m. No reservations are needed to join the class, led by instructor Zoe Crandall. To find out more about the program, call the Cuyama Buckhorn at (661) 766-2825 or visit cuyamabuckhorn.com. The venue is located at 4923 Primero St., New Cuyama. m Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.

Presented by:

FREE to enter Find great information & giveaways!

Friday July 10 9 am to 12pm Allan Hancock College Inside The Joe White Memorial Gymnasium 800 South College Dr. Santa Maria

For information call

(805) 925-8000

www.partnersincaring.org

ee

ADA van assistance in parking lot provided by

More fr!

Fun

(805) 264-5141

Model A Ford Club Cars exhibit Magic by Central Coast Conjurers Free Haircuts by Cosmoton Academy Free goody bag for the first 500 to enter Lots of great information & services to discover!

www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 7

Opinion ONLINE POLL

How should institutions approach Native American remains and artifacts in their collections?

63% They should be given back to the appropriate tribes ASAP. 37% They should be held until the tribes approach the institutions.

0% They should remain on display and studied as they have been.

0% I don’t have an opinion on the issue.

8 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

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

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COMMENTARY

➤ Canary [9]

Angry boomers Our generation remembers older generations’ hardships and we’re grateful for our lives of relative ease

BY JOHN DONEGAN

I

lines, assassinations, and riots. We lived under n yet another generational skirmish, Generation the threat of the polio epidemic, and all knew kids who had contracted it, often distinguishable Z is now characterizing us boomers as “angry” by leg braces and crutches. for unreasonably resisting their demands that The work environment was different then, we shuffle off to the graveyard and bequeath them as you couldn’t take off “mental health days” our homes and assets. just because you felt like it, were expected to be Perhaps they are just confusing the term reliable, could easily be fired, and didn’t expect to “angry” with the word “no,” which they are work from home in your pajamas. We had some apparently just now hearing for the first time. pretty shitty minimum wage jobs, often involving A piece on the Yahoo! News website on June a grill, gas pump, broom, or some uniform.

21 explored the responses given by boomers to Instead of living at home, we shared an old house the Generation Z accusation that we are always with friends to save rent. When we finally bought “angry” despite having had “the happiest lives of houses, they were in dicey any generation.” Some of the areas, needed a lot of work, young accuse us of having and required far more than had it easy, of hoarding all of the recommended 30 percent society’s wealth, and of taking of our income. an irresponsibly long time In distinguishing to die. themselves from the young, I avoid anger myself. Like some boomers mentioned hatred, anger usually only suffering chronic pain, hurts the holder and doesn’t disease and disability, and the usually impact the subject. I accelerating loss of family and may get momentarily peeved friends to death or dementia. or annoyed, but it generally Some mentioned not being evaporates as soon as I turn off praised and affirmed for just doing the job the news and tune in to SpongeBob SquarePants they were paid for or not expecting “trophies,” or Three Stooges clips. Intense anger or hatred is a constant recognition, and affirmation. The term terrible burden to bear.

MUSIC up. “entitlement” came And I always remember that some of my But after listening to the complaints of the favorite people are good, intelligent younger youngsters, it occurred to me that perhaps the folks who, although often disagreeing with me, FLAVOR/EATS biggest generational difference is that we boomers will undoubtedly conquer their “chronological acknowledge the hardships and struggles that our challenges” and gain wisdom as they age. Just as parents’ generation faced and usually recognize I did.

INFO how much easier we had it.

The boomers who commented offered World War II had just concluded, with the references to Vietnam and the draft, which deaths of hundreds of thousands of Americans, could get you sent off to war and killed or CALENDAR and the wounding of many maimed, even if you didn’t more. Living near a VA facility, want to go. Imagine that in OPINION I recalled seeing disabled this day and age. veterans, as well as those The constant threat of Send us your suffering from “shell shock,” nuclear annihilation also views and opinion to NEWS now known as PTSD. Most of came up, as did our recessions, letters@santamariasun.com. the fathers in my neighborhood skyrocketing inflation, gas

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Some of the young accuse us of having had it easy, of hoarding all of society’s wealth, and of taking an irresponsibly long time to die.

Speak up!

STROKES

ARTS

had served in the military, and many had seen combat and sometimes shared stories of their experiences. A few, such as my father, had been badly wounded and suffered disabilities.

Civilians also suffered hardships and challenges. Food and gas were rationed, many products were not available, and many women were forced to work in the defense industries, both to serve the war effort and to supplement the meager military incomes of their husbands who were serving overseas.

Abroad, the situation was more dire with the Holocaust and the slaughter of civilians. Many of us had Jewish friends and can recall hearing of the murder of their families in the camps. Today, it is a lot different when someone shows you their tattoo.

Before that, there was the crushing poverty and desperation of the Great Depression. People were desperate for any work, and hundreds of thousands migrated from the dust bowl to places like California, willing to take any job in order to support their families and themselves. My grandfather moved his family across the country for a job as a railroad switchman and was grateful to have it. Add to that a world that was quickly racing toward yet another world war.

Growing up with a backdrop like that, it was pretty difficult for us to overlook the suffering and hardships that our parents’ generation had endured and to fail to feel gratitude for our good fortune in living in safer and more prosperous times.

So, yeah, we boomers had it easy relative to earlier generations, and you Z’s have had it easier still. m John Donegan is a retired attorney in Pismo Beach who vents by shouting at the news and lecturing his cat. Respond to letters@ santamariasun.com.

WRITE NOW!

We want to know what you think about everything. Send your 250-word letter to Sun Letters, 801 S Broadway Suite 3, Santa Maria, CA 93454. You can also fax it (1-805-546-8641) or e-mail it (letters@santamariasun.com).

All letters must include a name, address, and phone number for verification purposes; may be edited for space or clarity; and will be posted to santamariasun.com.

LETTERS Standing up for offshore wind in California Thank you, California Energy Commission Chair David Hochschild and Attorney General Rob Bonta, for announcing the state’s intent to sue over the Trump administration’s offshore wind lease buybacks.

It’s no secret that California needs more electricity. Diablo Canyon will not operate forever. We have a great opportunity to tap a new renewable and clean energy source with offshore wind. The California State Lands Commission estimates 25 gigawatts of electricity can be produced by 2045. For comparison, Diablo Canyon produces 18 gigawatts per year.

In addition, offshore wind represents a oncein-a-generation economic and jobs opportunity, bringing good-paying jobs and a new long-term revenue stream.

In the face of these benefits and clean energy needs, the Trump administration brokered backroom deals using taxpayer money to buy back contracts to build out offshore wind in the Central Coast. To make matters worse, the two leaseholders to take the buyouts are indicating their new investment will be in fossil fuel extraction.

How in the world does California benefit from this? Obviously we don’t, and I applaud our state for taking a stand to correct this injustice.

Craig Graugnard San Luis Obispo

8 • Sun • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Opinion

Reject, protect

J U LY E A R N & G E T P R O M O T I O N

W

hen new ownership and management started making changes to their mobile home park’s policies and rent, residents of Del Cielo Mobile Estates in Orcutt spoke up. First, they went to the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors with their concerns about the park becoming an all-ages community, and the board made changes to local policy.

Next, the residents spoke up when the rental fees for their spaces started increasing—and some of those increases looked like they came from money the owner was paying to fight the county’s ordinance.

That’s when the county facilitated an eight-hour arbitration hearing in January between the residents and ownership. The arbitrator eventually ruled that instead of the $39 monthly rent increase residents faced, $24 was a fair amount. But the ownership appealed to the Board of Supervisors.

Now, the dispute is over. Maybe. It’s at least reached a milestone. The county denied Del Cielo Manufactured Housing Community LLC’s appeals and unanimously upheld the arbitrator’s verdict.

The county basically found that arbitrator John Derrick did what he was supposed to do—he did not, as Del Cielo’s owners argued, abuse his authority while misinterpreting the county’s mobile home rent control ordinance.

Neither did he mislabel a line item in Del Cielo’s operating expenses.

If the owners knew their boundaries, they wouldn’t have tried to pass a $20,000 “broker’s commission” on to the residents. That money was tied to the sale of the park before the LLC actually took ownership.

If the residents hadn’t spoken up, they’d likely be facing higher rents and a lowered quality of life.

Speaking of boundaries, the Natural Resources Defense Council is teaming up with the Northern Chumash Tribal Council to lobby for Point Sal to receive extra protected status.

In early May, representatives from the two groups spoke at the California Fish and Game Commission meeting asking for the waters off the coast between Rancho Guadalupe Dunes and Vandenberg Space Force Base to become a state marine conservation area.

“Point Sal emerged as a really special place with really strong connections to Chumash heritage and identity, and a place that was pristine and beloved by locals,” said Sandy Aylesworth with the Natural Resources Defense Council. “It was for that reason that we thought that Point Sal might be a promising area to have a new marine protected area.”

Local fishers also spoke up at the recent meeting, asking for the state commission to consider not adding extra protections on an area that falls within the relatively new Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary. If this state conservation area goes forward, fishers said, their way of life will go kaput.

“I consider myself a marine steward, even though I’m a taker of the ocean,” said Wayne Blicha, owner of Flying Fish Sportfishing.

“Point Sal represents a very important fishery to us and our clientele.”

Keep speaking up. Who knows—maybe, like the Del Cielo residents, those voices can help a compromise be reached. m The Canary loves compromise. Send middle ground to canary@santamarisun.com.

WELC OME TO REWARDING GIFTS OF FREEDOM E A R N F R E E G IF T S E V E R Y WEEK

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAY / NOON–10PM Some escapes come with a little something extra. This July, earn 100 Tier Points to receive a new weekly gift. Earn each week to collect them all while supplies last.

Members of THE CLUB at Chumash may only participate if they have not already received a monthly gift offer. Limited to one (1) redemption per week per eligible Member and is subject to quantities on hand. Must be 21 or older. Gambling problem? Call 1.800.522.4700. ©2026 Chumash Casino Resort.

What’s Your Take?

We know you’ve got an opinion.

Everybody’s got one!

Should the waters off Point Sal become a marine conservation area? m Yes! We need protection for such a pristine area. m No—it’s already protected by a national marine sanctuary! m Yes, but some allowances should be made for fishermen. m I don’t think any of our land should be protected.

This week’s online poll: 7/2 – 7/9 Enter your choice online at: SantaMariaSun.com

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www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 9

Hot Stuff

10-DAY CALENDAR: JULY 2 - JULY 12, 2026

LOVELY LAVENDER

In honor of the Santa Rita Hills Lavender Festival, two lavender wreath-making classes will be offered at Santa Rita Hills Lavender Farm in Lompoc on Saturday, July 11, from noon to 1:30 p.m., and 1:30 to 3 p.m. ($55). The interactive workshop will guide participants as they create a custom lavender wreath using fresh blooms harvested from the farm.

More details can be found at santaritahillslavender.com.

—Angie Stevens

PHOTO COURTESY OF SANTA RITA HILLS

ARTS SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

“ALONG THE HIGH EMBANKMENTS” AT PRESQU’ILE Los Angeles Nomadic Division and Presqu’ile present Cole Sternberg’s work along the high embankments, a free, self-guided installation. Saturdays, Sundays, 12-5 p.m.

Free. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presquile Dr, Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

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

BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. (805) 928-7799.

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

DANCE CLASSES There are weekly dance classes, from ages 2 to adult, at KleinDance Arts . Mondays-Saturdays, 4-8 p.m. (805) 268-2530. kleindancearts.com. KleinDance Arts, 1954 S Broadway, Suite J, Santa Maria.

DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. ongoing

Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, (805) 937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.

FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17.

First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

GIAFUNNI’S STAND UP COMEDY SATURDAYS Enjoy live stand-up comedy at Giavanni’s Pizza in Orcutt, featuring touring comedians and our famous buffet!

Come out for a night of entertainment that won’t have you out all night yet telling your friends about it throughout the week!

July 11, 8 p.m. $23.27. my805tix.com.

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

LUCHADORA BY ALVARO SAAR RIOS Luchadora! is a vibrant, family-friendly tale of love, identity, and the courage to step into your own power. WednesdaysSundays, 7-8:25 p.m. through July 3 $25.

(805) 922-8313. pcpa.org. PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria.

“POST-WILD: NATURE IN THE 21ST CENTURY” The Santa Barbara County Office of Arts and Culture is proud to present Post-Wild: Nature in the 21st Century, a juried exhibition featuring

artworks by 34 emerging and established Santa Barbara County artists. Co-curated

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

Betteravia Art Gallery, 511 Lakeside Pkwy, Santa Maria.

VALLEY ART GALLERY: ROTATING DISPLAYS Featured artists of Santa Maria’s Valley Art Gallery frequently display their works at the airport. Check website for details on monthly exhibits and full list of the gallery’s artists. ongoing valleygallery.org. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

DISNEY’S FROZEN With magnificent music, heart, and a flurry of fun, Frozen is an unforgettable celebration of love and letting go. Tuesdays-Sundays, 8-10:15 p.m. through Aug. 2 $25. (805) 922-8313. pcpa.org. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

GO WEST THREE-ARTIST EXHIBIT AT GALLERY LOS OLIVOS JUL1 -31 Three Artists will share artwork inspired by icons of the American west, including Robin Deshayes, Deborah Kalas, and Linda Lewis, at Gallery Los Olivos. The gallery is

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

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

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

10 • Sun • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

open daily. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through July 31 Free. (805) 688-7517. .GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

SUMMER CAMP 1, JULY 6-10: JUNGLE ADVENTURES Join us for a week of fun, creativity, and artistic expression! This summer, we will be creating paintings, drawings, sculptures, weavings, clay, and more! July 6, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., July 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., July 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., July 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and July 10, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $425. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels. com. Art Spot on Wheels, 320 Alisal Road, unit 306B, Solvang.

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus exposure to Los Angeles talent agents.

All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge.com. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

INDEX Arts...................................... 10 Culture & Lifestyle ..........23 Food & Drink .....................25 Music ..................................26

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) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/.

Online, See website, 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

FINDING NEMO Explore the big blue world with this lively new stage musical based on the beloved film! Fridays, 7-9 p.m., Saturdays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. and Sundays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. through July 19 $23-$30. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/shows/finding-nemo/.

SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

OLIVER! THE MUSICAL Consider yourself at home with Lionel Bart’s Oliver!, the beloved award-winning musical based on Oliver Twist and a perfect theatrical adventure for the whole family. July 10, 7-9 p.m., July 11, 7-9 p.m. and July 12, 1-3 p.m. $35-$65.

(805) 756-4849. pacslo.org/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free.

(805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolor-

based course, but one that branches out into other media. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. $35 per class. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

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

CIRCUS VARGAS Circus Vargas proudly unveils its dynamic, new and highly anticipated 2026 edition… “Masquerade!”

Step into a world of wonder as mystery meets mastery, under the Big Top where every act pushes the limits and every moment captivates and ignites your imagination! Through July 20 $25-$90. circusvargas.com/. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., 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.

ELEMENTS OF ART FOR TWEENS AND TEENS WITH CAROLINA LUNA Join Carolina as she guides your young artists through the fundamentals of art. Each week will focus on a different element.

All materials are provided. Wednesdays, 1:30-3 p.m. through Aug. 5 $200. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ARTS continued page 23

July 3-5 and July 8-12 (closed July 6 & 7)

Santa Maria Fairpark | 937 South Thornburg Street, Santa Maria | 805.925.8824 www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 11

July 3-5 and July 8-12 (closed July 6 & 7) Open weekdays: 2pm – 10pm Open weekends: 12pm – 10pm

Tickets to the Fair

Presale admission tickets – starting June 5: • Adults (ages 12-61) $12 • Seniors (62+) $10 • Youth (6-11) $8

• Children 5 & under are free

Friday, July 3

Pay-One-Gate, $20 Includes admission to the Fair and an Unlimited Ride Wristband

Saturday, July 4

$4 on the 4th – all-ages All active and veteran Military members with ID are admitted free

Sunday, July 5 Fiesta Day

Wednesday, July 8 $5 Before 5pm – all-ages

Friday, July 10

Cattleman & Farmers Day

Sunday, July 12 Fiesta Day

Carnival Wristbands are a separate transaction and do not include admission to the Fair.

You must also purchase a Fair admission ticket.

12 • Sun • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Bite into Happiness

Now Open in Guadalupe!

Door Dash at all 3 locations

Charlies

King Falafel

King Falafel

320 E. CLARK AVE. ORCUTT

1024 N. BROADWAY SANTA MARIA

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State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI) State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) Bloomington, IL

www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 13

2026 Santa Barbara County Fair Concert Series

Get ready for an unforgettable summer of live music at the Santa Barbara County Fair!

From country stars and rock legends to fan-favorite performers, the Fair Concert Series brings big entertainment to the Fair.

Best of all, you can Go FREE or Be a VIP! Enjoy the show from the grandstand with Fair admission or upgrade for premium seats close to the stage.

2026 Concert Series Lineup:

• Thursday, July 9 – 7:00pm: Everclear with special guest Billy Williams • Friday, July 10 – 7:00pm: Dylan Scott with special guest Moonshine Crazy • Saturday, July 11 – 7:00pm: Rodney Atkins with special guest Pryor Baird

14 • Sun • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

FEATURING 40 YEARS AWARDWINNING PATRICIO’S PIZZA

Same Great Pizza!

Same Great Taste!

Featuring

PIZZA INSPIRED BY PATRICIO ARNOLDI

NEW menu items to come! More than just pizza!

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july 16 • 7:30pm • pacslo co-presented by

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2026 Michelob Ultra Concert Series CHUMASH GRANDSTAND ARENA SOLD OUT!

OLD DOMINION JULY 15

ICE CUBE JULY 16

LAINEY WILSON JULY 17

ERIC CHURCH JULY 18

PHIL WICKHAM JULY 19

MEGADETH JULY 20

HOWARD JONES JULY 21

WILLIE NELSON AND FAMILY

TREATY OAK REVIVIAL

JULY 22

JULY 23

THREE DOG NIGHT

COUNTRY RODEO FINALS

TRACTOR PULL

JULY 24

JULY 25

JULY 26

ON SALE NOW MIDSTATEFAIR.COM 16 • Sun • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

2026 Casey Printing

FREE Concert Series 805 BEER FRONTIER STAGE

MISS CMSF PAGEANT July 15 @ 6PM

presented by Cattaneo Bros and Boot Barn

HIGH VOLTAGE July 16

MICKY DOLENZ July 17

SACHA CARLSON July 18

NOEL TORRES July 19

JOHN HOLLIER & THE REVERIE

STEPHEN STYLES July 21

SHENANDOAH

SOMETHING OUT WEST July 23

LOCASH

QUEENSRŸCHE July 25

GERARDO CORONEL “EL JERRY”

July 24

July 22

July 20

July 26

Free live music every night at 8:00 pm! *free with paid admission! www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 17

LIVESTOCK EVENTS

July 8 8am

Poultry Showmanship Turkey Showmanship

Small Stock Barn

8am

Swine Showmanship

Auction Barn

1pm

Replacement Heifer Show

Fields Bradley Pavilion

July 9 10am 5pm

Dairy Goat Showmanship Champion Drive

July 10

Small Stock Barn

Fields Bradley Pavilion

8am

Goat Showmanship

Fields Bradley Pavilion

12pm

Beef Showmanship

Fields Bradley Pavilion

8am

12pm

Sheep Showmanship Junior Livestock Auction

630pm Junior Livestock Auction

Fields Bradley Pavilion Auction Barn Auction Barn

RABBITS & CAVIES • POULTRY • PYGMY GOATS • BEEF • DAIRY GOATS • SHEEP • SWINE • LARGE LIVESTOCK

It’s why Cal-Coast delivers solutions to help you grow. Helps increase yields with precision ag-tech. And provides service that keeps you moving forward. Expect nothing less from your Grown In California John Deere dealer. calcoastmachinery.com Santa Maria, CA (805) 925-0931

18 • Sun • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Paso Robles, CA (805) 434-5566

Oxnard, CA (805) 981-2866

Monterey County, CA (805) 434-5566

(805) 937-5340 100 E. Clark Ave. Orcutt Santa Maria CA 93455

Happy 4th of July

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WE TAKE PRIDE IN CARING for both the physical and emotional needs of your child.

NOW SERVING BEER AND WINE AIRTEK AC - Dual A/C Service Station

JUST SOME OF OUR SERVICES

Our team at Pediatric Medical Group is dedicated to the health and well-being of your child. Whether you have an infant, preschooler, or teenager, we work closely with parents to make sure that our care meets their children’s personal needs.

• Propane Refill & Exchange • Smog Check For All Vehicles • Clean Truck Check • Mobile Services For Big Trucks • Oil Changes • Battery Check, Test & Changes • Brakes Check and Changes • Tune-Ups • Diagnostics • Tire Check • Carb Clean Truck Check • Uber And Lyft Inspections

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Shane Rostermundt, D.O.

Joseph Nunez, M.D.

Michele Kielty, D.O.

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www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 19

FINE ARTS

SPECIAL CONTESTS RECYCLED ART - PROFESSIONAL/ AMATEUR/JUNIORS

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Nothing Like the Santa Barbara County Fair To Lift Your Spirits There was a time when families from

rides, cotton candy and corn dogs

all over the Santa Maria Valley came

to live entertainment, livestock

to enjoy the sights and sounds of the

auctions and a variety of exhibits and

Santa Barbara County Fair. Today,

food vendors, the fair has something

it’s still one of the biggest events

for everyone. Join in a tradition of

on the central coast. From carnival

family fun that dates back 130 years.

Community Bank of Santa Maria Home of “Santa Maria Style” Banking™ 2739 Santa Maria Way • 1421 S. Broadway • (805) 922-2900 • yourcbsm.com 20 • Sun • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Come to the Fair July 3–5 & 8–12

Janet Silveria, President / CEO

“We’ve always been big supporters of the Fair because it brings out the best in our community and welcomes new friends.”

om

Follow Our Footsteps!

Join classes now to perform in

Sleeping Beauty

Summer Ballet Camp 2026 Ages 6 -14

9am - 3pm Mon-Fri

Early Drop-off and late pick up available for working families!

KLONDIKE PIZZA

Pizza • Beer • Wine • Vintage Video Games

SALADS • BURGERS • GRILLED SANDWICHES BAKED and COLD SANDWICHES • DINE IN/TAKEOUT/DELIVERY

Learn Fu nD Put on a ances!!

Show!

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Session 1 : July 6th - July 17th - Performance July 17th Everybody Can Dance Session 11: July 20th - July 31st - Performance July 31st Home of the Santa Maria Civic Ballet

2059 S. Broadway Santa Maria • 805-348-3667

104 Bridge Street Arroyo Grande • 805-481-5288

From pizza to page-turners! Klondike co-owner Pam writes “The Murder Blog Mysteries”—find them on Amazon.

Camp showcase performance features all students!

628 S McClelland Call 805-345-5570 or visit 805-345-5570 • everybodycandance.webs.com Santa Maria everybodycandance.webs.com 628 S McClelland, Santa Maria

Where Local Elegance Sparkles!

MELBY’S JEWELERS Established 1922

1140 E. Clark Ave, Santa Maria · (805) 925-1678 · www.melbys.com www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 21

22 • Sun • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Hot Stuff

JULY 2 - JULY 12, 2026 PHOTO COURTESY OF ART SPOT ON WHEELS

ARTS from page 10 FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

FREE DOCENT TOURS Gain a deeper understanding of the artwork on view with SLOMA’s new docent tours.

Every Saturday, join trained guides for interactive and engaging tours of SLOMA’s current exhibitions. Saturdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/visit/ tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

FRIDAY NIGHT IMPROV AT SLO PUBLIC MARKET It’s another night of spontaneous comedy as the Central Coast Comedy Theater Ensemble goes on another kooky, made-up adventure!

We’re hitting the stage with a wild mix of short form games (think “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” but with less network oversight) and long form improv (like a play, if no one had memorized anything or made a plan). July 10, 6:15-8 p.m. $12.56. my805tix.com. SLO Public Market, South Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo.

IMPROV PLAYGROUND Join Improv for Good at the Improv Playground! Enjoy quick games, silly scenarios, and genuine connection. All are welcome to play short fun games. Second Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. through Aug. 14 Free.

(805) 556-8495. improvforgood.fun/ improv-playground. Unitarian Universalist Church, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo.

JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45.

(702) 335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

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

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

PAINT A PREMADE POTTERY PIECE! Pick out and paint a premade piece!

There is fun for all ages, and prices are based upon size. Mondays, WednesdaysSaturdays, 2-7:30 p.m. $30-$75. app. acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php ?owner=22676824&appointmentType =35974477. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com).

Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.

ROYAL PAIN PRESENTS: CENTRAL COAST FOLLIES Enjoy your first complimentary glass of wine or preferred non-alcoholic beverage pre-show and get ready to be dazzled by the fabulous Central Coast Follies! July 11, 3:30 p.m. and July 12, 3:30 p.m. $40. my805tix.com.

Studio de Myriam, 3563 Sueldo St., suite N, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-7433.

SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN MIC NIGHT Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337, libertinebrewing.com.

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their

SUMMER CAMP AT ART SPOT

Art Spot on Wheels in Solvang is offering a summer camp for children 7 to 13 years old, from Monday, July 6, to Friday, July 10. Each day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the young artists can learn during guided painting sessions, exploring watercolor, acrylic, and pastel media, with an open house art show to round out the camp. Sculpture, weaving, and clay will also be introduced. Tickets are $425 each and can be purchased at artspotonwheels.com.

—A.S. knowledge of painting in watercolors.

To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Mondays, 1:303:30 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/.

Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO SHOW On display now through mid-April. ongoing slogallery.com/. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

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.

FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Come and join us 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. 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay. THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. ongoing (805) 772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

ART AND CRAFT KIDS SUMMER CAMP Enjoy this week-long half day art camp for ages 7 to 12, featuring weaving, clay, cyanotype, and weekly creative themes that build artistic skills Every 4 days, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $300. (805) 771-5007. esterobayartandcraft.com. Estero Bay Art and Craft, 523 Harbor St, Morro Bay. ART IN THE PARK: MORRO BAY Visitors can expect a mixture of painting, photography, ceramics, sculpture, textiles, jewelry, and more, along with a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Morro Bay! July 3, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., July 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and July 5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 772-2504.

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS artcentermorrobay.org/artinthepark.

ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday Morro Bay City Park, Corner of Morro Bay of every month Oasis Center, Blvd. and Harbor St., Morro Bay. 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750.

BRUSHSTROKES 2026 AND OFF THE CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB WALL Brushstrokes 2026 and Off the Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts.

Wall, the California-wide painting and First Thursday of every month, 6:30 p.m. sculpture shows, highlight the best art of the Coast and beyond. Mondays-Sundays. Free. (805) 934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria. through Aug. 3 Free. (805) 772-2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Brushstrokes FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 2026 and Central Coast Sculptors’ Off the 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt.

Wall present paintings and sculptures org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. with an awards reception on June 28.

FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month First Monday-Sunday of every month, facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/.

12-4 p.m. through Aug. 3 Free. (805) 772Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and 2504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Union Ave., Orcutt.

Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay. FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 CALL OF THE WILD EXHIBIT The Call Visit the Youth Services Desk on the of the Wild exhibt embraces of energy, first Sunday of each month to receive passion and freedom of the world around a coupon for a free book of your choice us in vivid, dynamic, or whimsical ways. from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17.

Through Aug. 3, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 772First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 2504. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 24 Morro Bay, artcentermorrobay.org.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

Explore Our Ocean’s Wonders on Stearns Wharf!

Learn more

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

www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 23

Hot Stuff CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 23

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

irrigation system expansion/repairs, class or $60 for five-class card. (805) 440pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should 4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach. and tools related to the above activities.

QI GONG: MINDFUL MOVEMENTS FOR First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Free. (805) 710-3073. Nipomo Native Balance your mind, body, and spirit Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo. with Qi Gong — gentle stretching and strengthening movements that promotes DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For physical wellbeing and inner peace. This is the early riser or commuter, every geared towards all fitness levels and ages. weekday morning. Maintain or improve Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $14 per class concentration, balance, and flexibility. or $55 for 5-class card. (805) 440-4561.

Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class balancedlivingayurveda.com. Shell Beach with more practices. Led by certified Veterans Memorial Building, Awareness Through Movement teacher.

Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach.

3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND 280-5800. margotschaal.com/qigong.

WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. (805) 9046615. 819 Tempus Circle, 819 Tempus Circle, DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE Arroyo Grande.

FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong wide range of styles and genres of music boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). improves balance and flexibility, and, best Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. for this Crows End Retreat outdoor class, Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. email for location and to reserve a spot.

FRIENDS OF THE NIPOMO LIBRARY Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227.

USED BOOK SALE Arrive at 10 a.m.

Online, See website, Arroyo Grande. for best selection of adult fiction and SUMMER BLAST CAMP 2026 Join us nonfiction, along with children’s books, for our full week of Camp which includes jigsaw puzzles, and CDs and DVDs! tennis lessons, pickleball lessons, Members get tickets for two free books. swimming, arts and crafts, marital arts Cash only. July 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (805) 929- class, and much more! Mondays-Fridays, 3994. friendsofnipomolibrary.org/. Nipomo 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through Aug. 7 $395-$445.

Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.

(805) 595-7600 ex 113. Avila Bay Athletic LA CONVERSACIÓN Join La Conversación, Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, a group for practicing spoken Spanish.

Avila Beach, avilabayclub.com.

There is no homework or lessons, just SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ conversation. Thursdays, 9-11:30 a.m.

AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Free. Greenhouse Coffee Company, Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, 1064 E Grand Av, Arroyo Grande, (805) worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks 825-1345. La Conversación is a Spanish MUSICof life who together, attain and maintain Conversation group. There’s no homework, sobriety. Requirement for membership is a no lessons, just conversation. All levels desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@ of speakers are welcome. Todos son FLAVOR/EATS gmail.com for password access. Sundays, bienvenidos! Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m.

7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, Free. (805) 748-9123. Coffee Bean, See website, Arroyo Grande.

354 Five Cities Dr., Pismo Beach.

INFO WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone.

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

AVILA BEACH 4TH OF JULY DOGGIE PARADE The Doggie Parade and Doggie Costume Contest is a $5 donation. All dogs must be registered to walk in the parade.

July 4, 11 a.m.-noon $7.20. my805tix.com.

Avila Beach Promenade, 404 Front St., Avila Beach.

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

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.

BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

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.

COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks including pathways maintenance, litter patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding,

30-DAY BREATH AND RESET JOURNEY NEWSFOR WOMEN Wired at night, drained all MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS day? Reset your body in 30 days. Focus FOR ADULTS Experience dance from on breath practices to calm stress, STROKES continents around the earth, including sleep deeply, and restore lasting energy. from Africa, Europe, and more. Described Registration is required. Tuesdays, 6:30as “a wonderful in-depth look at the 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) context and history of cultures of the ARTS 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody.com. Live world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 drop- Webinar, online, SLO County. in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739.

CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit grover.org. Grover Beach Community website for full list of weekly Zoom groups Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52 Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, Come join a friendly meeting of watch San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346. and clock collectors. Members bring CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN watches and clocks to show, plus there TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith are discussions of all things horological. based. All are welcome. Please wear a Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:30p.m. (805) 547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index.

11:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church php/chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo.

Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.

CITY FARM SLO’S YOUTH POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM Check A docent-led tour of the buildings site for more info on programming and and grounds of the historic Point San summer camps. ongoing cityfarmslo.org.

Luis Light Station. Check website for San Luis Obispo, Citywide, SLO. more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis DEATH CAFE (EVERY 1ST TUESDAY ON THE MONTH) At Death Café, curiosity Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach. and community converge for open, Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) thoughtful conversations about mortality, This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ loss, and our shared human experience. and questioning youth between the ages Donations to Hospice SLO County are of 11-18. Each week the group explores always appreciated. First Tuesday of personal, cultural, and social identity. every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free. (805) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/ 544-2266. hospiceslo.org/services/deathevents/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande. caf%C3%A9. Hospice SLO County, 1304 QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.

ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong EVENING IN THE GARDEN Visit the through simple standing movements Garden of the Seven Sisters for a free promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, Sunday evening open garden. July 5, and increased energy. Suitable for all 6-7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 781-5946. ucanr.edu. ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes Garden of the Seven Sisters, 2156 Sierra and enriches your life. An outdoor class Way, San Luis Obispo. overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 25 p.m. and Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $15 per

925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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

Laser Hair Removal

Chemical Peels

Photofacial Rejuvenation

Botox

Hydrafacial

Fillers

Microneedling

Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup

Radiofrequency

Skin Care Products

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

GOING BATTY AT THE NATURE CENTER Going Batty consists of weekly talks and observation of hundreds of native California Myotis bats. Fridays, Saturdays. through Sept. 6 Free. (805) 693-0691. clnaturecenter.org. Neal Taylor Nature Center, 2265 Highway 154, Santa Barbara.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

LAVENDER WREATH MAKING CLASS Celebrate the Santa Rita Hills Lavender Festival with a hands-on experience in the fields! In this interactive workshop, you’ll craft your own custom lavender wreath using fresh blooms harvested right from our farm. Your ticket includes one wreath frame and all necessary materials. July 11, 12-1:30 & 1:30-3 p.m. $55. santaritahillslavender.com. Santa Rita Hills Lavender Farm, 1900 Tularosa Road, Lompoc, (805) 325-8092.

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

THE VILLAGE TREASURE CHEST This event is for the whole family. There will be vendors selling their wears, music, facepainting, and some kind of food booth.

Come out and spend part of your Saturday supporting local vendors. First Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free.

Vandenberg Village Community Services District Office, 3745 Constellation Road, Lompoc, (805) 291-6370.

525 East Plaza Dr #203a • Santa Maria (805) 928-1000 • www.moatslaser.com

FREE

Music at the Point

Local

Musicians

Admission

JULY Saturday, July 4 Jill Knight Band Sunday, July 5 Bobby Santa Cruz &

the Jalapeno Jam Saturday, July 11 Earls of Tuesday Sunday, July 12 Rough House Saturday, July 18 Leslie & the Soul Shakers Sunday, July 19 Dave Tate Duo Saturday, July 25 No Music Sunday, July 26 Electric Lavender Train

805-927-4502

www.raggedpointinn.com 19019 CA Highway 1 Ragged Point, CA

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805-608-1096 Fit-Byrd.com

JULY 2 - JULY 12, 2026

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Send event information to calendar@ santamariasun.com.

OPINION

SAN LUIS OBISPO

Hot Stuff

JULY 2 - JULY 12, 2026 PHOTO COURTESY OF MY805TIX

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 24 FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and importance to the development of this area. Tours are led by docents and meet in front of the church Sundays, 2:30 p.m. and MondaysSaturdays, 1:15 p.m. Free. (805) 550-7713. missionslodocents.org.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

GLOBAL KIDS SUMMER PROGRAM This nature experience includes scavenger hunting, singing, storytelling, hands-on gardening, art, games, visiting farm animals, mini-lessons, harvesting, and being immersed in a Permaculture Food Forest.

July 10, 10 a.m.-noon $40. (626) 476-7584. permacultureslocounty.com/. City Farm SLO, 1221 Calle Joaquin, 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.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.

THE SLO FLOWER COLLECTIVE WEEKLY FLOWER MARKET Enjoy an amazing weekly fresh flower market, open to the public.

Enjoy the historic gardens with local blooms from nine local flower farmers. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Nov. 5 Free. sloflowercollective.com. Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, 1185 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually.

Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID. SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets at the SLO Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors are welcome. First Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 540-9484, slocity.org/seniors.

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.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

4TH OF JULY FREEDOM TO GROW SALE Kick off your holiday weekend with Cambria Nursery’s 4th of July Freedom to Grow Sale. July 3-5, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 927-4747. cambrianursery.com.

Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.

CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, (805) 772-2840, sttimothymorrobay.org/index.html.

CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone

experiences and knowledge. Contact Mark Plater for instructions on entering the Chapel area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon (805) 528-7111. Coalesce Garden Chapel, 845 Main St., Morro Bay. WATERFRONT MARKET MORRO BAY The Waterfront Market returns for its 9th summer season in Morro Bay. This open-air market features over 30 local vendors from SLO County. Through July 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 402-9437. facebook.com/ waterfrontmarketmorrobayca. Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

FOLLIES ONSTAGE

The Central Coast Follies, a group of dancers, singers, and performers, will hit the stage for Royal Pain at Studio de Myriam in San Luis Obispo on Saturday, July 11, and Sunday, July 12, at 3:30 p.m. ($40). All of the proceeds from raffle tickets and bar sales, and 20 percent of all Studio de Myriam merchandise sales will benefit the Central Coast Parkinson’s Alliance. Visit my805tix. com for additional showtime information.

—A.S. comfortable in commanding their own sailboat. There’s a focus who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on on teamwork, developing leadership skills, and having fun.

Zoom). For information, call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m.

Through Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $450. my805tix.com. Morro Bay MUSIC Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main Yacht Club, 541 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, (805) 772-3981.

St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654.

MEDITATE WITH DAWN Semi private class to restore your ENJOY AXE THROWING Enjoy the art of axe throwing in a safe energy & calm theFLAVOR/EATS mind to balance your day with guided and fun environment. Kids ages 10 and older are welcome with meditation, pranayama (breath-work) and chakra connection on an adult. No personal axes please. Fridays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and the beach with the beautiful Morro Bay rock in view. Guided by Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. $20. (805) 528-4880. baysidemartialarts.com.

Dawn Feuerberg, certified classical ashtanga yoga, mindfulness INFO Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos. life coach, shamanic wisdome keeper, tantra meditation instructor, and founder FRIENDS OF THE CAYUCOS LIBRARY of Aurora Adventures, LLC, a wellness KIRK WILSON MEMORIAL BOOKSALE CALENDAR inspired travel company. July 3, Head to the library patio to browse donated 9-10:15 a.m. $48.98. my805tix.com. books, CDs, DVDs, and more, all selling for Aurora Sacred Events, 21 24th St, $1 to $2. At noon, a bag of books will sell Send event information to calendar@ OPINION Cayucos. for $5. July 3, 9 a.m.-noon (805) 995-3312. santamariasun.com.

Cayucos Library, 310 B. St., MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS Cayucos.

NEWS DISCUSSION GROUP A group of metaphysically minded individuals that have been meeting for HIKE-IN OPEN HOUSE Enjoy the scenery on an easy hike to the many years now in the Coalesce Chapel. Club offers a supportive Piedras Blancas Light Station and learn about the light station’s metaphysical based community. Members discuss a different history and local ecology. July 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 927STROKES topic each week. All are welcome to join. Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

7361. piedrasblancas.org/hike-in-open-house. Piedras Blancas Suggested donation of $10-$15. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Light Station, 15950 Cabrillo Highway, San Simeon.

Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

ARTS LEARN TO SAIL AT MORRO BAY YACHT CLUB! Learn to sail at the Morro Bay’s only sailing school: Morro Bay Yacht Club. These SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP Have a topic, book, or article sessions are led by competent, responsible sailing instructors. you wish to discuss with interested and interesting people?

Expect a great experience, with the goal of each student being Join this weekly meeting to discuss it, or simply contribute your

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THE GREAT AMERICAN Professional Live Theatre!

Fun for ages 5 to 105!

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

www.AmericanMelodrama.com (805) 489-2499

SHOW TIMES

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

BAR TAKEOVER THURSDAYS Join us Thursdays to meet and chat with the winemaker of the flight we’re featuring that week.

Thursdays, 4-7:30 p.m. $15-$30. (805) 623-5129. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, stellerscellar.com.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules.

Fridays (805) 922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.

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

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

PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/club/.

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

SECOND SATURDAY OPEN AIR MARKET: LOS ALAMOS A carefully curated open air artisan and farm market. Features great vintage finds, handwoven and hand dyed textiles, handspun yarn, organic body care products, and locally grown organic eats. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Free. (805) 722-4338. Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.

SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard and Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

SOURDOUGH AT GROWING GROUNDS FARM Urban Homesteadings, your local female veteran owned sourdough specialty shop is at GrowingGroundsFarm. Veterans and first responders get a free cookie! Thursdays, 12-3 p.m. through June 30 Free. (805) 865-6318. UrbanHomesteadings.com. Growing Grounds Farm, 820 W. Foster Rd., Santa Maria.

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

THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com.

Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

FOOD & DRINK continued page 26

Y 1 - JULY 5 L U J $10 off your order for shows 7/1 through 7/5 only.

Use code “SUMMER” at checkout online or in the Box Office.

One coupon per customer.

Good for July 1st through July 5th performances only. While tickets last.

www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 25

Hot Stuff

JULY 2 - JULY 12, 2026 MUSIC

FOOD & DRINK from page 25 WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

4TH OF JULY BBQ AT ROBLAR WINERY Don’t miss the ultimate Independence Day celebration at Roblar Winery! Gather with friends and family as we mark our country’s 250th birthday in style! July 4, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $85. (805) 686-2603. Roblar Winery & Vineyards, 3010 Roblar Ave, Santa Ynez, roblarwinery.com/.

Spread the word!

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.

3:30-5 p.m. $30-$50. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/ SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., AVILA BEACH 4TH OF JULY PANCAKE BREAKFAST Enjoy a Pismo Beach.

FLAVOR/EATS delicious pancake breakfast prepared by members of the Board TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of Directors of the Avila Beach Civic Association and volunteers that consists of pancakes, bacon or sausage, strawberries, orange of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place INFOteams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for juice, and coffee. July 4, 8:30-10 a.m. $12.56. my805tix.com. brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and nonAvila Beach Community Center, alcoholic options available. First Thursday 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach. of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play.

CALENDAR MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES (805) 295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com.

New topics each month with a thorough Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price demo and explanation of the process St., Pismo Beach.

Send event information to calendar@ OPINION that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. santamariasun.com.

Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at NEWS home. Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/ SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 250TH ANNIVERSARY 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT THE 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Join to expand STROKES STOCKYARD WITH THE MIGHTY CASH CATS Join the Stockyard your knowledge of the fermentation process and get started and the Mighty Cash Cats: Johnny Cash. This incredible band fermenting at home. We alternate between demonstration is back after 4 years to help make this celebration of America’s and hands-on classes. Second Sunday of every month, ARTS

MUSIC

_

H O T VA L L E Y N I G H T S

WE LC OME TO T HE S U M M E R S O U N D S OF F REEDOM F R EE CONC E RT SE RIE S with your card from THE CLUB at Chumash

250th anniversary the best 4th of July bash around! July 4, noon Free. my805tix.com. The Stockyard, 241 S Broadway St, Orcutt.

CONCERTS IN THE PARK SERIES Enjoy Concerts in the Park 2026, with live music, summer nights, and community fun. July 4, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0951. anc.apm.activecommunities.com/ santamaria/activity/search?onlineSiteId=0&activity_select_ param=2&activity_category_ids=35&viewMode=list.

Pioneer Park, 1150 W. Foster Rd., Orcutt.

FAULTLINE BAND LIVE Faultline Band will be rockin’ away the afternoon. Bring your lawn chairs and your dancing shoes.

July 11, 1-4 p.m. Free. theblaststockyard.com. The Stockyard Blast & Brew, 241 S. Broadway Street, Orcutt.

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

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

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

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

MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons.

(805) 925-0464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/lessons.html.

Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

STOCKYARD SUMMER AND FALL CONCERT SERIES FEATURING FAULTLINE July 11, 1 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Stockyard, 241 S Broadway St, Orcutt.

SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes.

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

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

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

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES AT REFUGIO RANCH VINEYARDS TASTING The Refugio Ranch Tasting Room features live music every weekend this summer. Join us to enjoy the atmosphere and our seasonal summer menu. July 4-Aug. 30 (805) 697-5289. refugioranch.com/events. Refugio Ranch Tasting Room, 2990 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

7/11 Molly Ringwald Project 7/25 Banda Perla Gitana 8/8 Knee Deep 8/22 Bear Redell DJ Bubba V opens at 7PM. Shows start at 8PM.

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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

4TH OF JULY WITH FREE LIVE MUSIC AT THE SECRET GARDEN Dance it out to live music from the Quadratones band while celebrating the 4th of July at Sycamore. July 4, 3-6 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, (805) 595-7302.

ARROYO GRANDE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Check out the lineup for the City of Arroyo Grande’s Summer Concert Series!

There will be free concerts every Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m., and a double show on July 4. July 4, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/rec. Heritage Square Park, 201 Nelson St., Arroyo Grande.

LIVE ON THE ROCKS FEATURING THE TOMMY MOON BAND Live on the Rocks is a beloved free oceanfront concert at The Cliffs Hotel and Spa! Dance to a fabulous live band, and enjoy fantastic food. July 4, 1-5 p.m. Free. (805) 773-5000. cliffshotelandspa.com. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach.

NIPOMO CONCERTS IN THE PARK Celebrate summer at Nipomo’s free Concerts in the Park series, with live bands, local food, dancing, and unforgettable evenings with friends, family, and neighbors every week. Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through Aug. 26 Free. (805) 929-5437. nipomorecreation.com/. Nipomo Regional Park, 255 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo.

THURSDAY NIGHT MUSIC IN THE PARK Free concerts with SLO County Band at Rancho Grande Park. July 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Rancho Grande Park, 500 James Way, Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

Management reserves the right to change or cancel events at any time without notice. Must be 21 or older. Gambling problem? Call 1.800.522.4700. ©2026 Chumash Casino Resort.

26 • Sun • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

FIRST FRIDAY AT LIBERTINE SLO First Fridays are magical nights filled with the vibrant energy of our all-horn band. Join the festivities at Libertine Brewing in Downtown SLO and immerse yourself in the unique fusion of your favorite rock and pop songs.

It’s a musical journey that promises to be unforgettable, so make sure to wear sensible shoes for the dance-worthy beats. July 3, 7-10 p.m. $25.41. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337.

ROCKIN’ THE RANCH: JANE’S GANG July 5, 1-4 p.m. $7.20. my805tix.com. Filipponi Ranch, 1850 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo. m

Atascadero 4th of July Music Festival SATURDAY, JULY 4

9305 Pismo Ave, Atascadero

UPCOMING EVENTS ON MY805TIX.COM

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, JULY 18-19

First Friday at Libertine

SLO Blues Baseball 2026 Season

Live at the Lighthouse Concert Series

Sinsheimer Stadium, SLO

Point San Luis Lighthouse

NOW - SUNDAY, JULY 26

Laguna Lake Park, SLO

Motley 2 Live at the Pour House

&

Avila Beach 4th of July Pancake Breakfast

NOW - SUNDAY, OCT 10

Avila Beach 4th of July Doggie Parade

Rockin’ the Ranch: Jane’s Gang

Man of La Mancha

FRIDAY, JULY 3 Aurora Sacred Events, Morro Bay

FRIDAY, JULY 3 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

FRIDAY, JULY 3 The Pour House, Paso Robles

SATURDAY, JULY 4 Avila Beach Community Center

SATURDAY, JULY 4 Avila Beach Community Center

The StrawberryRed Carpet Screening Event

Roots, Resonance, Radiance TUESDAY, JULY 7 La Lomita Ranch, SLO

Claymore, TAD

THURSDAY, JULY 9 Humdinger, Arroyo Grande

Cyborg Octopus/ Fervence/Nott

FRIDAY, JULY 10 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

Friday Night Improv

FRIDAY, JULY 10 San Luis Obispo Public Market

FRIDAY, JULY 10 835 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach

Rachel Baiman + Special Guest Natalie Del Carmen FRIDAY, JULY 10 SLO Brew Rock, SLO

Joy Bonner Band

FRIDAY, JULY 10 The Pour House, Paso Robles

Royal Pain - Central Coast Follies SATURDAY, JULY 11 Studio de Myriam, SLO

Janes Gang Live

SATURDAY, JULY 11 The Pour House, Paso Robles

Chakra Meditation & Breath-work

SATURDAY, JULY 11 Aurora Sacred Events, Morro Bay

Giafunni’s Stand Up Comedy

SATURDAY, JULY 11 Giavanni’s Pizza, Santa Maria

Nature Rhythms in Harmony

Vets in the Vineyard 2026

Creative Club Camps

Chakra Flow Sound Journey

SLOFunny Comedy Show

M-80’s Live in Paso!

MONDAY, JULY 6 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

SUNDAY, JULY 12 Town of Harmony

How We Met A Live Comedy Dating Show SATURDAY, JULY 18 SLO Cider Co., SLO

SUNDAY, JULY 12 Biddle Ranch Vineyards, SLO

Del Cumbia al Perreo Brunch

SUNDAY, JULY 19 The Stockyard, Orcutt

TUES, JULY 14 - THURS, JULY 30 Lor Coaching Studios, Morro Bay

FRIDAY, JULY 17 Mystic Nature, Nipomo

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

SUNDAY, JULY 5 Filipponi Ranch, SLO

FRIDAY, JULY 17 Dracaena Wines, Paso Robles

FRIDAY, JULY 17 The Pour House, Paso Robles

The Blues Brothers Fundraiser

Plant Bingo with Peaceful Plants

MONDAY, JULY 20 The Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

SELL TICKETS WITH US! 805-546-8208 INFO@MY805TIX.COM

Meditate with Dawn

40th Annual Renaissance Festival

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FEATURED EVENTS

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT MY805TIX.COM

WEDNESDAY, JULY 22 Kula Hawaiian Kitchen, Atascadero

www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 27

Arts ARTS BRIEFS Local musician and piano instructor selected for Carnegie Hall performance

OPINION

STAGE

NEWS

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FAULTLINE

STROKES

Showtime!

Tune in

Visit faultlinebandrocks.com to find out more about Faultline. The local cover band’s upcoming shows include performances on July 11 at the Blast Stockyard in Orcutt, July 26 at Harry’s Night Club and Beach Bar in Pismo Beach, and Aug. 16 at Adelina’s Bistro in Nipomo. Keep up with the group’s gig schedule on Instagram, @faultline_goesbig.

ARTS

Send gallery, stage, and cultural festivities to mwhite@santamariasun.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALLAN HANCOCK COLLEGE

Prolific pianist and Allan Hancock College faculty member Adea Badivuku is joining one of her longtime collaborators for a July 8 performance at Carnegie Hall in New York.

Earlier this year, Badivuku and Santa Barbara-based violinist and composer Deniz Caglarcan performed as a duo at New York’s Golden Classical Music Awards Competition, where they won first prize. That accolade secured their upcoming spot at Carnegie Hall.

“As performers, we dedicate so much time to preparation and refining every detail, so receiving first prize was a very meaningful moment,” Badivuku said in a release from Hancock, where she teaches applied piano, piano lab, and ensemble coaching.

“It felt incredibly exciting and very rewarding,” she continued. “Even though I have performed at Carnegie Hall before, every opportunity to return feels special.”

Originally from Kosovo, Badivuku strives to bring a global perspective to her work at Hancock, and continues to actively perform while teaching, something she believes is essential to both her growth and her students’ success.

“I want my students to see that performing and collaborating are essential parts of growing as an artist,” Badivuku said in the release. “Performing, collaborating, and even competing are all part of the artistic journey. With dedication and balance, those experiences can open doors to incredible opportunities.”

For more info on Badivuku’s work, visit adeabadivuku. com. Alongside her faculty work with Allan Hancock College, she also serves as music director for Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Santa Ynez.

To find out more about Hancock’s music programs and other fine arts offerings, visit hancockcollege.edu/pathways.

Santa Maria Philharmonic Society presents intimate concert with Suri Kim

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SANTA MARIA PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY

As part of its next Music at the Library program, the Santa Maria Philharmonic Society will present an intimate afternoon of music performed by featured artist Suri Kim, on Saturday, Aug. 1, at 3 p.m., at Shepherd Hall in the Santa Maria Public Library.

Admission to the concert is free. The Music at the Library program aims to curate concerts of a smaller scale than the Santa Maria Philharmonic Society’s traditional ensemble performances. While entry is free, donations are accepted.

To RSVP to attend the concert, visit smphilharmonic.org.

Reservations in advance to the Aug. 1 performance are required due to capacity restrictions at Shepherd Hall.

For more details, call the Santa Maria Philharmonic Society at (805) 925-0412. The Santa Maria Public Library is located at 421 McClelland St., Santa Maria. m Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood compiled Arts Briefs this week. Send comments to cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

RANCHO ROCKERS: From left to right, Faultline’s five members are keyboardist Robert Vandehey, lead vocalist Milania Jubilee, drummer Dan O’Donnell, bassist Wayne Brown, and lead guitarist Scott McKechnie.

Fab five

generational divide between her and the rest of the band less apparent.

“We’ve got guys who’ve been playing this music since it was new music,” said the band’s founder and drummer, Daniel O’Donnell, 74. “But with her youth and her voice, it’s like she’s singing it as if it’s new [again].”

O’Donnell started Faultline out of his Nipomo garage during the pandemic simply to get together with some of his neighbors for casual jam sessions.

From there, O’Donnell’s outlet for camaraderie gradually grew into a full-fledged cover band specializing in rock anthems and danceable pop hits ranging from the 1950s to the ’80s.

Since recruiting Jubilee last year, the band has performed at a handful of venues along the Central Coast, but none within the young vocalist’s hometown. That’s set to change when Faultline makes its Orcutt debut on July 11, with an afternoon concert at the Blast Stockyard.

While admission to the 1 p.m. show is free, reservations in advance are encouraged through my805tix.com.

Located at Blast 825 Brewery, the Stockyard is just a stone’s throw away from Gina’s Piece of Cake, where Jubilee works as a barista. Her childhood in Orcutt followed a schooling trajectory similar to that of many who’ve grown up in the small town: from Patterson Road Elementary to Lakeview Junior High to Orcutt Academy.

From the Sunset Strip to Old Town Orcutt, Faultline keeps moving and grooving

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

W

hen the opportunity arose for five Central Coast rockers to perform at Los Angeles’ Whisky a Go Go earlier this year, sound check fell just a few weeks after the band’s youngest member celebrated her 21st birthday.

Orcutt local Milania Jubilee was 20 when she became Faultline’s lead vocalist in 2025, after wowing her bandmates—four men in their golden years—with an a cappella version of “Blue Bayou.”

“I’ve been singing ever since I could talk. I would sing in my sleep before I was able to form words,” she told the Sun. “I’ve always been very musical growing up. I wasn’t really allowed to watch cable TV or anything other than old movies and stuff like that.

“Instead, I was kind of raised on listening to vinyls,” she explained. “From classical music to oldies to jazz to tons of different music spanning different decades.”

Her upbringing brought her to love Linda Ronstadt, Frankie Valli, Rod Stewart, and other singers she’s idolized. She’s a self-described “old soul” and her taste in music makes the

TAMBOURINE SCENE: Faultline’s lead vocalist, Milania Jubilee, told the Sun her biggest musical influence is Linda Ronstadt, who she grew up idolizing thanks to religiously listening to her parents’ vinyl collection.

28 • Sun • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Even outside of the classroom, moments where she wasn’t learning were few and far between, amid taking formal piano and singing lessons in her free time.

The memories that spring to O’Donnell’s mind when he thinks about being in school include his early inclinations toward drumming, long before he ever owned a pair of drumsticks or a drum set of his own.

Banging two pencils, or sometimes just his own fingers, against his desk, O’Donnell used to constantly mimic the sounds of the classic 1963 surf instrumental “Wipe Out.” Having grown up in Long Beach, O’Donnell felt determined to make a trek to Los Angeles as soon as he turned 16 and got his driver’s license.

His mission: see Little Richard perform live at Whisky a Go Go. It was his first time at the legendary venue, known as the launchpad for the Doors, Alice Cooper, Van Halen, and other household names.

Little did O’Donnell know he’d be performing on the same stage with his own band more than five decades later.

“So, when we had the opportunity to play at the Whisky, I thought, wouldn’t it be great to close our set with a Little Richard song,” O’Donnell said of their January show. “‘Tutti Frutti’ came up and I checked with everybody and said, ‘Can we learn this?’ And everyone said, ‘Yeah, yeah.’”

Jubilee interjected to clarify: “I was a little on the fence about it.”

She loved the song, but initially felt intimidated about attempting her own rendition of it.

“It’s a hard rocker song. … I always listened to that stuff, but I never really tried it in my own voice,” she explained. “But actually, coming together with this band, I realized that I could kind of growl with my voice. … So, I just went for it.”

Since then, “Tutti Frutti” has been a constant on Faultline’s set lists from gig to gig.

“That’s the song we usually finish with,” O’Donnell said.

Jubilee nodded: “For our last song, why not go all the way back to the roots of rock ’n’ roll?” m Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood only sings in the shower. Send music and lyrics to cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.

ROLLING MILESTONES: Based in Nipomo with musicians hailing from cities along the Central Coast, Faultline jumped at the chance to perform at Whisky a Go Go earlier this year.

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Film

SUN SCREEN

Sol sister

PHOTO COURTESY OF WARNER BROS. PICTURES

D

irected by Craig Gillespie (Lars and the Real Girl; Fright Night; I, Tonya; Cruella) from Ana Nogueira’s feature-length debut screenplay, this “girl saving girls” sisterhood story takes aim at patriarchy and sort of hits its mark.

Produced by James Gunn (Guardians of the Galaxy, The Suicide Squad, Superman), Gillespie and Nogueira adopt his irreverence, campy humor, and penchant for wounded protagonists.

(107 min.)

the Brigands hit him with a poison dart, Kara has three days to track them down and get the antidote that is only worn around their necks.

Ruthye’s revenge quest is a bother and not one that Kara’s interested in being a part of, but when the young girl stows away and tags along, Kara can’t help but be protective of the young girl. Not just in physical protection, but mental as well.

Ruthye is sure she wants the blood of Krem on her hands, but Kara knows that revenge is nothing more than SUPERGIRL Glen: When we first meet her, Kara agreeing to carry a weight for the What’s it rated? PG-13 Zor-El (Milly Alcock), better known as rest of your life, and Ruthye is too What’s it worth, Anna?

Supergirl, is on an interstellar bender to good for that. It’s feminist and Full price celebrate her impending 23rd birthday. sweet, and I’m always a sucker for What’s it worth, Glen?

She’s a hot mess—perpetually drunk anyone trying to save a dog (even a Full price or hungover, and sticking to red sun CGI one). The villains are gross and Where’s it showing? solar systems where her powers wane, evil, and you can’t help but want to Regal Edwards allowing alcohol to have its maximum watch them get taken down. Our Santa Maria and effect. In yellow sun systems, she’s hero is reluctant but also great, and RPX, Movies Lompoc, unbeatable, in green sun systems, she she manages to find a way to be Regal Arroyo Grande slowly dies. She’s in a bar in a red sun both in a very endearing way. planet when she encounters Ruthye Glen: It’s certainly trying to pass itself off as feminist, but the problem is the only (Eve Ridley), whose family has been brutally powerful woman is Supergirl. Ruthye is wholly murdered by Brigands—ruthless human traffickers led by Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts)— fragile and completely helpless. The other women depicted are human trafficking victims. And the setting up a revenge tale that also involves Lobo (Jason Momoa), a mercenary and bounty hunter. men? They’re either complete reprobates like the Expect some laughs, some CGI battles, and some Brigands or total wimps. We do get an origin story cloying emotional manipulations in this summer told in flashbacks about Kara’s parents and how she ended up following her cousin, Superman popcorn flick that’s trying really hard.

(David Corenswet), to Earth. Another element Anna: Kara may be rough around the edges, but of the story is about her finally reconciling that her real kryptonite is her dog, Krypto. When

BATTLE ROYALE: Kara Zor-El (Milly Alcock, left), better known as Supergirl, goes head-to-head with Brigand leader Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts), in Supergirl, screening in local theaters.

Earth is her home. DC Studios is clearly teeing up a sequel, and while this isn’t a great film, it’s fun enough, and Alcock is interesting enough for me to return for another helping.

Anna: I thought Alcock’s casting was great— Kara’s a mess, but a badass one, and her dry humor and quick wit make for a fun character.

She’s a call back to the sarcastic, sassy mess phase that almost everyone goes through sometime in their early 20s. It certainly isn’t the film of the year, but if I’m forced to watch superhero flicks every summer, this franchise is a welcome salve

PHOTO COURTESY BY NETFLIX

MATERNAL INSTINCT

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2026 Where’s it showing? Netflix Oh boy, this one’s a doozy. I remember this story popping up back in 2020. I’m sure other true crime junkies will too. Reagan Simmons was a mom-to-be, just a month away from welcoming daughter Braxlynn into the world. Her joy turned to tragedy when Taylor Parker, her wedding and pregnancy photographer, cruelly stole the baby by cutting her from Reagan’s womb, leading to the death of both mother and child.

Using body cam footage from police questioning Taylor in the hospital and interviews FAKED: The TV documentary Maternal Instinct explores with those who knew Reagan and those who the shocking case of Taylor Parker, who faked a knew Taylor, this documentary weaves the tragic pregnancy for months before murdering her pregnant tale of what’s very clearly the consequences of friend and stealing her baby, streaming on Netflix. unchecked mental illness, a lack of guidance, and total delusion. lie. Wholly tragic, there’s nothing to feel good about after Taylor pretended to be pregnant, even though those watching this film, but Reagan deserves to have her name around her knew she’d had a hysterectomy following an known, and to have people remember her in life, ectopic pregnancy and even though she’d already had not in the way she died. (94 min.) two children who were not in her care. But people played —Anna along, never knowing how far she would go to keep up the

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to the movies that take themselves and their ridiculous storylines far too seriously. I think tween girls are going to get a kick out of the sassy lead, and she even manages to mentor Ruthye, however reluctantly. But Kara still has a lot of growing up to do herself, and I suspect we’ll follow along that journey with at least one sequel to come. m New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen.

Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SLABTOWN STUDIOS/SUPERIMAGE LTD.

THE STRAWBERRY

What’s it rated? Not rated When? 2026 Where’s it showing? Bay Theatre of Morro Bay, Monday, July 6 (VIP doors at 4:30, general admission doors at 5, screening at 5:30 p.m.; tickets at my805tix.com) Directed by Cambria brothers Carlos and Kyle Plummer, and written by Cambria clinical psychologist Steve Brody, The Strawberry stars veteran actor Mike Farrell (he played Capt. B.J. Hunnicutt on M*A*S*H from 1975 to 1983). Here, he plays Herb Kaplan, an 80-yearHARD CHOICE: Veteran actor Mike Farrell stars old who after receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis, in the locally shot feature, The Strawberry, a deeply seeks to reconcile his fractured family and find peace moving meditation on Death with Dignity, screening with his decision to utilize Death with Dignity to end on July 2, in Bay Theater. his life painlessly.

You’ll see a lot of local landscape in this emotive This special benefit screening includes a Q-and-A story of family reconciliation. It’s beautifully filmed, and the with the directors. Proceeds of the screening benefit The acting is amazing. The film also stars Doug Jones (The Shape Strawberry filmmakers. General admission is $28.62, and of Water, Pan’s Labyrinth), Suanne Spoke (Whiplash), Abe VIP includes red carpet photo-op access, a glass of wine or Lincoln, Ivette Li-Sanchez, Mateo Ray, Josh Garrett, Matthew beer, a commemorative The Strawberry T-shirt, a swag bag, Maynard, and David Trajan. It won Best Central Coast Film at and a cast and crew meet-and-greet ($50.05). Support local this year’s San Luis Obispo International Film Festival as well as an award at the Desert Scape filmmaking! (97 min.) m —Glen International Film Festival.

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Eats

FOOD PHOTOS COURTESY OF KYLE SULLIVAN

THE LINEUP: Figure Ate sells original biltong, spiced biltong, and persimmon vinegar. The brand launched in 2020.

Snack time White Buffalo Land Trust’s food products win a nationwide Good Foods Award

BY MADISON WHITE

To infinity

Figure Ate is available in stores nationwide, including in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. To purchase online, discover recipes, and find a store locator, visit figureatefoods.com.

only meat-based success story in the snacks category, with fellow winners iting into a piece of Figure Ate’s being recognized for products like biltong for the first time was roasted almonds, fig bars, vanilla unlike any other kind of meat bean granola, and cookies. Winners stick Kyle Sullivan had ever tasted. were also judged on supply chain “The tenderness of the beef really sourcing, environmental practices, blew me away,” Sullivan told the Sun. “It just has almost like a melt-in-your- and production standards.

The biltong also won at the Good mouth texture to it, which is really Foods Awards in 2023 shortly after awesome.” the product launched. A minimum of When put up against around three years is required before winners 1,200 entries nationwide this year, may submit again, and after waiting critics from the Good Foods Awards it out, Figure Ate submitted and won agreed. Chefs, food journalists, and again this year. other industry professionals voted “To me, the blind taste test side of Figure Ate’s two flavors of biltong as things really just means the most. For two of the 242 winning goods after a folks to have never tried biltong— blind taste test. The biltong was the have never tried our biltong—and then are immediately responding to it, I think it just speaks for itself in terms of how unique it is,” Sullivan said.

He’s the director of marketing for White Buffalo Land Trust, the Jalama Canyon-based nonprofit associated with Figure Ate. Sullivan said it means a lot to his team for their products to be highly rated in a process that industry insiders genuinely respect.

White Buffalo launched its food brand in 2020, and all proceeds directly benefit the nonprofit, which is dedicated to restoring the ecosystem through regenerative agriculture. The name Figure Ate symbolizes the cycling of nutrients returning to the land and coming back to life.

“That was one of the things that we set out OPTIMAL ORANGE: California persimmons from to do when we started last year’s harvest will be made into Figure Ate’s Figure Ate, is we wanted vinegar. It’s popular in salad dressings, marinades, just to diversify our electrolyte drinks, and more. income streams coming

B

into the nonprofit instead of solely relying on philanthropy,” Sullivan said. “Like, ‘How can we be a little more entrepreneurial and create ventures that support the impact that we’re trying to make as a nonprofit but also can supply funding as well?’”

White Buffalo Land Trust is also known for its living agricultural laboratory at Jalama Canyon Ranch and its artist-in-residence program.

Figure Ate is one more avenue for the organization to promote the regenerative food cycle.

Preserving meat to make biltong is common in South Africa. It’s unlike most beef jerky, which is tougher and cooked with preservatives.

“It’s basically a way of air-drying beef or other meats, where you’re just adding vinegar, salt, and a few different spices, and that’s it,” Sullivan explained. “Then it’s just air drying with time.”

The method fits with White Buffalo’s motto because it’s made with natural preservation methods.

Though the ranch doesn’t have enough cattle to sustain biltong production, Sullivan said the group sources from other regenerative farmers.

Figure Ate makes two flavors: original and spiced. Sullivan’s favorite is the spiced biltong, but he said the original is the best seller.

The original recipe uses coriander and black pepper. Added in the spiced version is cayenne and garlic.

After being air-dried for 14 days, each 2-ounce pack has 32 grams of protein and 0 grams of sugar.

There’s another special ingredient in both flavors, which was the debut product that Figure Ate launched and a key part when making biltong.

Persimmon vinegar was what started the Figure Ate brand in 2020.

Jesse and Ana Smith, who work at White Buffalo, developed the concept by observing persimmons on their farm. The trees required little water, were resistant to pests, and grew well in the Central Coast climate.

“They had an abundant crop one year of persimmons from their farm, and they brought it over to Ventura

SPICED TO PERFECTION: Biltong is a traditional snack in South Africa. It’s cured with vinegar and salt before air-drying slowly in a natural preservation process, making it more tender than beef jerky.

Spirits to create a persimmon brandy. California, and Thrive Market, which Then, for some reason, a bucket is a big online market,” Sullivan said. got left in the corner and kind of “[We’re] really excited about that forgotten about,” Sullivan said. “They kind of growing footprint of where came back to it like months later, it’s available. And then we also have and it had fermented all the way to our direct-to-customer sales too vinegar, and it was kind of this like through our website, which has been happy accident.” growing as well, so it’s been great to Sullivan often adds it to salad see that impact.” m dressings for a hint of sweetness, but there are many ways to use it.

Staff Writer Madison White wants White Buffalo recommends a drizzle to enjoy grilled peaches with burrata of persimmon vinegar over a grilled and persimmon vinegar all summer peach and burrata salad; a couple long. Send grill master tips to dashes in tangy chimichurri sauce to mwhite@santamariasun.com. slather on vegetables, steak, or potatoes; and a persimmon vinegar twist on classic pesto for pasta or caprese salads.

The persimmons are grown in California and naturally fermented.

“It’s more of that fruity, floral that’s kind of nice,” Sullivan said.

“It’s subtle, but it still has that bright pop of a vinegar. Definitely just a little different hint to it.”

Figure Ate may start looking to create more goods in the future and has already explored different ideas. Its goal remains to bring in more funds that support White Buffalo Land Trust’s mission.

“At this point, we are in markets across the REALLY GOOD FOOD: Blind taste testers United States, so we’re voted Figure Ate’s biltong a winner in the snacks in over 200 stores now, category at the 2026 Good Food Awards. It also from the East Coast to won in 2023.

Pacific Northwest to www.santamariasun.com • July 2 - July 9, 2026 • Sun • 31

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