Sun, March 19, 2026

Undertone: short on substance [20]

Empty seat

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Backyard Composting

On June 2, Santa Barbara County’s 5th District voters will choose between three candidates to represent them on the Board of Supervisors: Cory Bantilan, current 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino’s longtime chief of staff; Maribel Aguilera, a current Santa Maria City Council member; and Ricardo Valencia, a current Santa Maria-Bonita School District board member. The top two candidates will face each other in a November runoff for the general election. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood talks to the candidates about their platforms [6]

Also, find stories about Sable restarting its oil pipeline [4]; a local plein air painter who captures landscapes slated for development [18]; and the volunteers who bake birthday cakes for a good cause [22]

• On March 10, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Buellton Mayor David Silva to the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which consists of 16 members. Silva, who currently serves on the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District ’s board, said he’s “so excited to be able to serve on CARB and bring a local air pollution control district perspective on how best to support the clean air goals of our communities,” in a March 12 statement. “Being able to provide firsthand experience on how state policies impact smaller and rural jurisdictions will be critical to help CARB policies work for Californians throughout the entire state,” Silva said. The Buellton mayor has served on the county APCD’s 13-member board as a primary member since 2025. He served as an alternate member in 2023 and 2024. “Congratulations to Mayor Silva. It’s always beneficial to have a Santa Barbara County voice on statewide matters,” county 5th District Supervisor and county APCD Chair Steve Lavagnino said in a statement. The county APCD works closely with CARB on various air quality issues that impact the Central Coast, APCD Executive Director Aeron Arlin Genet said in a statement. “We look forward to working with Mayor Silva in his new role to ensure our agency’s local goals and priorities are well represented in statewide discussions,” she said.

• Ojai Valley resident Helena Pasquarella recently announced her candidacy for the 24th Congressional District seat, which oversees all of Santa Barbara County and parts of San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties. In a March 10 statement, Pasquarella, a Peace and Freedom Party candidate, criticized the district’s current representative, U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara), for “not representing all of his constituents.” “Salud Carbajal has ignored his constituents, 70 percent of whom do not want the U.S. government to continue funding the genocide in Gaza with our tax dollars,” Pasquarella said. “Carbajal lacks the leadership and moral character to remain in office because he is beholden to the military weapons manufacturers on the Central Coast, and American Israeli Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), among the many other PACs that contributed to his $2 million campaign fund in 2024.” Pasquarella described her campaign plan as aiming “to connect with apathetic voters and make them realize that their votes do matter,” she said. “If we can motivate the 35 percent of voters who do not participate in electoral politics to join us in this movement for social justice and change, we can show the rest of the country what power of the people actually is,” Pasquarella stated. “Just look at what Zohran Mamdani did in New York.”

• On March 11, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced $1.18 billion in funding allocated as part of the Bond Behavioral Health Infrastructure Program awards made possible by Proposition 1, which was passed by voters in 2024. Santa Barbara County’s Department of Behavioral Wellness was awarded $20 million to help construct two 16-bed social rehabilitation facilities in Santa Maria. The governor announced that 66 projects across the state received conditional funding in this second round. “Proposition 1 is doing exactly what we promised it would do: transforming California’s behavioral health system. In just two years, we didn’t just meet our goal of creating 6,800 treatment beds, we exceeded it. That means we’re finally closing the gap that’s left too many communities without the care they need,” he said in the announcement. According to his office, the two rounds of funding have gone to 177 projects in 333 facilities across the state to create 6,919 residential treatment beds and 27,561 outpatient treatment slots. The county’s proposed facilities are expected to complete construction in June 2029, according to the governor’s office. m

EBB AND FLOW: The U.S. Department of Energy ordered Sable Offshore Corp. to resume oil flow at the Santa Ynez Unit, “to address supply disruption risks caused by California policies that have left the region and U.S. military forces dependent on foreign oil,” the agency stated on March 13.

Trump administration resurrects Las Flores oil pipeline

On March 14, Sable Offshore Oil Corp. began transporting oil produced at the Santa Ynez Unit through the Las Flores pipeline system, which ruptured in 2015 and spilled more than 100,000 gallons of crude oil in Refugio, to Pentland Station in Kern County.

According to U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, a new executive order from President Donald Trump justified the restart of oil operations as a matter of national defense.

“Today’s order will strengthen America’s oil supply and restore a pipeline system vital to our national security and defense, ensuring that West Coast military installations have the reliable energy critical to military readiness,”

Wright announced on March 13.

Trump’s new decree (Adjusting Certain Delegations Under the Defense Production Act) amends a section of President Barack Obama’s 2012 executive order dedicated to maximizing domestic energy supplies. Obama’s order gave the secretary of commerce sole authority to determine if or when materials, services, and facilities are critical and essential to national defense. Trump’s March 13 revision grants the Secretary of Energy that same authority.

Wright stated that his decision to direct Sable to restart oil operations at the Santa Ynez Unit was meant to “address supply disruption risks caused by California policies that have left the region and U.S. military forces dependent on foreign oil.”

Wright was referring to the California Coastal Commission (which fined Sable $18 million in 2025 for breaking state permitting protocols) and other state agencies entangled in ongoing legal battles tied to Sable’s oil operations at the Santa Ynez Unit.

Following Wright’s announcement, U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) scrutinized the Trump administration’s implication that certain current events should justify overriding state and local authorities’ jurisdiction.

“President Trump is using the war in Iran as a pretext to override the will of Santa Barbara County residents and the state of California,” Carbajal said in a March 13 statement. “The reality is that restarting the Sable project would produce nowhere near enough oil to lower the skyrocketing gas prices families are facing. His reckless war is causing immense damage, and jamming the Sable project through is a hollow solution.”

Carbajal added that he will “continue to fight this federal overreach in Congress and stand with our local partners as they pursue legal challenges in court.”

In April 2025, a handful of local environmental agencies sued the California

Fire Marshal for granting Sable a waiver that allowed the company to proceed working toward resuming oil production without formal public noticing protocols in place.

One month later, two of those nonprofits—the Center for Biological Diversity and Wishtoyo Foundation—filed an injunction request as part of the lawsuit. A Santa Barbara County Superior Court judge granted the injunction, which directed Sable to notify the court once it obtained approvals to restart the Santa Ynez Unit and then wait 10 court days before commencing oil operations.

As of March 17, Center for Biological Diversity Staff Attorney Talia Nimmer told the Sun via email that the court has upheld that injunction.

“It’s a victory for California that the judge kept this injunction in place, but it’s outrageous Sable has been pushing oil through these pipelines in defiance of this clear court order every day since the restart,” Nimmer said.

In September 2025, the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office charged Sable Offshore Corp. with 21 separate criminal counts, including five felony counts, centered on its work completed in 2024 to restart the Las Flores pipeline system.

The DA accused Sable of knowingly discharging excavated pollutants into three waterways.

On March 16, Sable announced that it expects to commence sales of oil produced at the Santa Ynez Unit by April 1.

“Sable Offshore is putting California consumers first by increasing domestic supply of crude oil into the California market by approximately 17 percent,” Sable CEO Jim Flores said in a March 16 statement. “We look forward to working closely with the Department of Energy, … and working with the Trump administration to take all necessary steps to deliver the energy necessary for the security and defense of the country.”

After noting that the Refugio oil spill killed hundreds of marine mammals and birds in 2015, Center for Biological Diversity Senior Oceans Campaigner Brady Bradshaw described the Trump administration’s order that restored oil flow at the Santa Ynez Unit as “a disgusting abuse of power.”

—Caleb Wiseblood

County adopts first environmental justice element

Water quality, air pollution, and safe open spaces are concerns shared by all county residents. However, the county’s unincorporated, rural towns need help making policies to protect residents from environmental risks. With an addition to the county’s general plan, the Board of Supervisors seeks to shield seven vulnerable regions.

On March 10, supervisors unanimously approved the county’s first environmental

justice element, which is required under state law SB 1000 for disadvantaged and unincorporated communities. Despite surveys and three Planning Commission hearings last year, organizations and community members expressed concern to the board about a lack of outreach in the element’s targeted regions. The agenda item was also pushed back more than two hours, heard out of order from the board’s original schedule. Fourth District Supervisor Bob Nelson apologized for the change, but some public commenters felt the wait time discouraged individuals from speaking.

Sandra Plascencia, a climate justice organizer with the local United Domestic Workers, said nine other group members planned to voice their concern but had to leave for work. Plascencia asked supervisors to visit the eight communities to hear more input before approving the element.

“Our members feel discriminated and disrespected by all of you,” Plascencia said.

“Not only have you gathered minimal input, but you’ve also pushed away marginalized community members who have eagerly sought to voice their environmental concerns.”

In North County, Garey, Casmalia, Los Alamos, Sisquoc, New Cuyama, Cuyama, and Ventucopa were identified as the rural towns the element is focusing on and have been labeled disadvantaged for more than a decade. Isla Vista is also included in the element. Planning and Development staff assessed communities based on household median income, negative health effects, and environmental burdens based on state data from CalEnviroScreen.

Staff revised the element to modify Sisquoc’s boundaries to exclude agricultural land and removed Garey from the element altogether, as Garey’s income data didn’t meet the state’s definition of disadvantaged.

Only unincorporated communities were included in the study because cities can make their own environmental justice elements, like Lompoc did in 2024.

There are nine policy categories in the environmental justice element including food, air quality, pollution, physical activity, and sanitation. All feature steps for increasing civic engagement, county staff said.

“My heart aches a little bit about the agenda change and that people who came weren’t able to participate,” 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann said. “I do think that although they’re asking for more outreach, I think the time has come where we really need to adopt this element. I see tremendous opportunity with the implementation plan with Appendix A to engage stakeholders.”

Similarly, 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps said she regretted that members of United Domestic Workers weren’t able to share their voices and said she’d like to hear their thoughts.

“The doing is always more important to me than the planning,” Capps said. “The doing is really important to really actually improve people’s lives, and that’s what we’re here to do.”

Though classified under the new title of an environmental justice element, 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino explained that the county hasn’t been ignoring such concerns. For example, the county has the cleanest air it’s had in the past 50 years according to the Air Pollution Control District, he said.

“But we continue to talk about these things like none of these things are being addressed when we’re spending millions of dollars tackling all these things,” Lavagnino said. “Now it’s in a different format, so now we call it the environmental justice element. But we’re doing a lot of these things.”

—Madison White

Buellton moves motel conversion rules forward

Restricting long-term housing at motel properties along the Avenue of Flags would help

maximize Buellton’s efforts in revitalizing the corridor, according to city staff.

In local attorney Mack Carlson’s eyes, the proposed ordinance amounts to “gentrification by policy,” he said during the Buellton City Council’s March 12 meeting.

“Let’s be clear about the decision before you: This ordinance would force the conversion of long-term affordable units into potential motel rooms designed to serve wine tasting weekenders from Los Angeles,” said Carlson, of Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck in Santa Barbara.

The firm represents the owners of the Farmhouse Motel, which would be obligated to gradually phase out long-term renters if the new short-term rental ordinance passes its second reading.

The ordinance passed its first reading at the March 12 hearing with a 4-0 vote (Councilmember Hudson Hornick was absent).

During a previous meeting about the ordinance in July 2025, City Manager Scott Wolfe told officials that between 10 and 20 years ago, a handful of Buellton properties—including the Farmhouse Motel—began transitioning “in violation of our municipal code into these longterm residential uses.”

“Somewhere along the line after that, the state through legislative means and administrative interpretations of those pieces of legislation have deemed those long-term residential uses to be permanent residential uses,” Wolfe said, “and therefore protected under law.”

In November 2025, city staff began meeting with the California Department of Housing and Development (HCD) on multiple occasions for input on the motel conversion ordinance.

In response to HCD feedback, Buellton staff pitched a way for long-term renters at the impacted motel properties to stay in their spaces for up to two years, if they can show the city proof that they’ve qualified to be on a waiting list for alternative low-income housing.

Wolfe told the City Council at its March 12 meeting that this extension resolved HCD’s concerns. As originally drafted, the waiting list route allowed a six-month stay extension.

“Even in the world where the stars align and all of these tenants find housing, the ordinance turns the city’s new affordable housing projects into mere backfill, replacing units lost by this ordinance,” Farmhouse Motel attorney Carlson said during public comment. “You don’t fix a housing shortage by shuffling lower income residents from unit to unit. That’s rearranging chairs, it’s not adding seats.”

Farmhouse Motel co-owner Kerry Moriarty also spoke during public comment.

“Changing the use of the Farmhouse back to a hotel or motel will do nothing to encourage redevelopment on the Avenue [of Flags]. I don’t get the calculus there,” he said. “This would be a real black eye for the city of Buellton from a public relations standpoint. Kicking out 22 people—low-income people.”

Before motioning to approve the ordinance on a first reading, Councilmember Elysia Lewis said that her decision-making on the matter was less about revitalizing the Avenue of the Flags than “looking at the human factor of things and making sure that standards are met.”

“The deciding factor for me is looking at short-term spaces that are designed for short-term use that are being used for longterm residency that don’t meet the requirements for longterm residency,” Lewis said. ❍

—Caleb Wiseblood

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Personal platforms

Board of Supervisors’ 5th District candidates race toward June’s primary election

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

With 2026 marking Santa Barbara County Supervisor Steve Lavagnino’s last year in the role, his chief of staff, Cory Bantilan, threw his hat into the ring to take the soonto-be vacant 5th District seat, along with two others: Santa Maria City Councilmember Maribel Aguilera and Santa Maria-Bonita School District board member Ricardo Valencia. All three candidates on the ballot for June’s statewide primary election took part in interviews with the Sun where they opened up about their campaign platforms and why they feel they’re worth prioritizing.

Advocacy in action

One year ago, Valencia—a longtime teacher at Santa Maria High School—marched toward Santa Maria City Hall in solidarity with hundreds of students as part of a carefully organized rally to protest against federal immigration enforcement tactics. Valencia was among the adult chaperones who walked alongside young protesters during the studentled walkout on Feb. 18, 2025.

He remembers being especially proud of the students when they didn’t stoop to the level of cursing back as they heard epithets from some

“This is personal to me,” he continued. “Both my parents were actually undocumented at one point. I have students and families that I work with that are undocumented, and they’re living with fear and anxiety.”

Born in Los Angeles, Valencia was a first grader when his family moved to Guadalupe. He lived in Santa Maria during middle and high school. Like his aim of ensuring “not a single dollar” of county taxpayer money goes toward supporting local law enforcement collaborations with ICE, Valencia’s goal to expand child care accessibility came from a personal place.

“Child care wasn’t something that my parents could access, so they worked long hours while my older sisters and I looked out for each other,” he recalled. “I spent a lot of my childhood at the Guadalupe Wrestling Club and in the Boys and Girls Club in Santa Maria. Those places became more than after-school programs. They became a safety net.”

After venturing from the Santa Maria Valley to pursue undergrad and grad programs in Berkeley and Boston, Massachusetts, respectively, Valencia returned to the area in 2010 to teach at Santa Maria High School, his alma mater.

He currently resides in the same Santa Maria house he’s lived in since 2011—a distinction his two opponents in the 5th District race do not share, he explained.

vehicle drivers and other passersby.

“What was beautiful to see is that the students didn’t reciprocate that negativity,” Valencia said. “I literally saw somebody flipping off our students when all they’re doing is engaging in a peaceful protest against draconian, undemocratic measures. And I was so proud to stand with the students and see that they did not react. Instead, they used their voice at the City Council to demand justice, and that justice has not been served yet.”

If elected to serve as 5th District supervisor, Valencia—an active Santa Maria-Bonita School District board member since 2020—said he wants to hold local government entities, including the county Sheriff’s Office, accountable for any collaborations with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.

“I believe that the majority of our law enforcement want to do the right thing, but unfortunately the sheriff is not providing the transparency or the leadership that our community is demanding at this moment to protect immigrant families,” Valencia said. “Because the sheriff is also an elected office, it requires transparency to the public on how our taxpayer dollars are being spent.

… Unfortunately, the sheriff has not been transparent, not even with the supervisors when they’re requesting information.”

to support synergy between economic development and housing policy.

“The Planning Commission is where I built the foundation and learned that land use decisions are not just about buildings, they are about people,” Aguilera said. “The questions I learned to ask there are identical to the ones that drive county-level land use decisions every single day: How do we ensure growth serves the people who are living in the community, not just the people who want to move here? How do we protect open space and environmental quality in neighborhoods? How do we revitalize underserved commercial corridors?”

up in the air to see which way the wind is blowing. … I think Ricardo clearly occupies the far left space—that’s a 1st, 2nd District kind of thing.”

Bantilan’s neck of the woods was the 3rd District—where he owns a Lompoc Valley property that he put up for rent—prior to recently making the 5th District his home. In response to criticism he’s received about the move, Bantilan said he’s no stranger to residents of Santa Maria, Guadalupe, and Tanglewood thanks to his chief of staff role.

“I’m the only candidate who did not just move into District 5 to be able to run,” Valencia said.

Smooth move

When Santa Barbara County underwent redistricting in 2021, one 5th District candidate’s previous home was drawn out of eligibility to represent the area, “by a few blocks,” Santa Maria City Councilmember Aguilera said.

“The nuance here really matters,” Aguilera said in an email interview. “The district lines moved, not my community. … The same community I have called home my entire life.”

In January, Aguilera moved into her current Santa Maria home because her former residence “was no longer technically within the county’s 5th District boundaries, even though I was still living in Santa Maria, in my hometown, that I’ve been part of since I was 5 years old.”

Aguilera wasn’t the only 5th District candidate who moved in order to meet eligibility standards, as Bantilan recently became a firsttime Santa Maria resident after living in the Lompoc Valley for many years.

“My opponent [Bantilan] relocated from District 3, a completely different area, to run for this seat. That is the distinction voters deserve to know,” Aguilera said. “There is no comparing a lifetime of roots to recently purchasing a property on the edge of a district in order to run for office. Santa Maria is my hometown. … My entire adult public service life—eight years on the Planning Commission, and now on the City Council—has been in service to this community.”

Aguilera’s time served on both boards helped prepare her to take on the county role she’s campaigning for, she explained. Those experiences also informed her platform

Strengthening the county’s fiscal stewardship is another platform Aguilera feels her time in city government helped pave the way for.

“Balancing competing community priorities against finite resources is not a new challenge for me because I have been making those exact decisions at the city level for years,” Aguilera said. “I understand that sound fiscal governance is not about choosing between serving residents and being responsible with public dollars. It is about being disciplined and experienced enough to do both.”

New kid on the block

Bantilan wants you to text him. Literally. He told the Sun to give out his cellphone number: (805) 680-2226. He welcomes calls too, and insists they won’t go to a burner phone.

As part of his run for the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors’ 5th District seat, Bantilan said he’s been leaving his cell number with those who answer their doors when he’s out canvassing neighborhoods in Guadalupe, Tanglewood, and Santa Maria.

“I’ve had people text me, ‘Is this really you?’ … Or, ‘Oh, so you have a second cellphone.’ Try calling it, it’s the same one in my pocket,” Bantilan said. “That is part of my pitch: Local government should be accessible. … No one expects this from a U.S. senator, but they do expect to be able to get their county supervisor on the phone.”

For the past decade and a half, Bantilan has worked for current 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino as the elected official’s chief of staff.

If there’s one 5th District candidate with backstage insight into a successful Board of Supervisors run from beginning to end, it’s Bantilan, who spearheaded Lavagnino’s first campaign that nabbed him the role in 2010.

“He’s almost like a big brother that I never had. I mean, I do have a big sister, but I don’t have a brother,” Bantilan said of Lavagnino. “We just have this really good relationship. … I’d say we probably agree 95 percent on policy. But when we disagree, we have very, very frank conversations.”

As chief of staff for the 5th District for the past 15-plus years, Bantilan said he’s eager to represent the area in the role of supervisor because “this district suits my politics well.”

“This is a swing district. This is a moderate district,” he said. “I feel like Maribel puts her finger

“I’m not some unknown person from far away,” Bantilan said. “I think a lot of campaigns are about change, and a lot of people want to disparage the person that came before them. Obviously, that’s not the case with me. I think we did a pretty good job in the 5th District, … Steve and I.”

One of Bantilan’s campaign platforms is to enhance public safety, which he described as “an uphill battle, given the current climate and the current conversation around the sheriff’s department.”

“Right now, the sheriff’s department, I think, is unfairly maligned,” Bantilan said. “I would like to change that narrative.”

If elected, Bantilan said he wants to be part of solving the budget problems the county Sheriff’s Office has recently faced, along with the backlash from some supervisors about unbudgeted costs tied to the department’s overtime use.

“Unfortunately the narrative has become, ‘Let’s just slash the sheriff’s budget.’ … That is absolutely the wrong answer,” Bantilan said. “People say there’s too much overtime, but this is all legal. … We cannot just cut public safety.

“We don’t live in a utopian society. I wish we did, where nobody committed crime,” he continued. “I live in reality.” ❍

Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

DROP THE MIC: Santa Maria High School teacher Ricardo Valencia’s (holding the microphone in front) supporters in his run for Santa Barbara County 5th District supervisor include local activist Cesar Vasquez (back, second from left), Buellton Mayor David Silva (back, second from right), and Lompoc City Councilmember Jeremy Ball (back, right).

SPREAD THE WORD: Santa Maria City Councilmember Maribel Aguilera (center) said she’s out canvassing neighborhoods every weekend as part of her campaign for the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors’ 5th District seat.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARIBEL AGUILERA

HAIL TO THE CHIEF: Santa Barbara County 5th District Chief of Staff Cory Bantilan’s name will be on June’s primary election ballot in the space designated for 5th District Supervisor candidates.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CORY BANTILAN

A fresh set of jaws

The Cloverlane Foundation supplies Hancock’s Fire Academy with new equipment

BY MADISON WHITE

Every morning at 6:30, cadets arrive to start training at the Allan Hancock College Fire Academy. For the next nearly 12 hours, they complete physical fitness training, classroom studies, and in-field exercises.

“These are long, long days,” the program’s coordinator, Leonard Champion, said. “Then when they get home, there’s studying to do. There’s preparation for the next day.”

Attending the academy is like a full-time job, five days a week for 17 weeks. With a recent grant, cadets feel a little more like firefighters do on the job. For one, they can leave their gear at new rolling gear racks instead of taking it home every night.

“That makes it really convenient and simulates a firefighter coming to work,” Champion said.

Hancock’s Fire Academy accepted a $25,000 grant from the Cloverlane Foundation, a nonprofit that supports veterans and people with disabilities. The donation will also allow the training academy to purchase equipment including an auto extrication tool, also known as the jaws of life.

The 50-pound tool is a metal cutter powered by batteries. If a battery dies, it’s easy to pop another in to allow students to seamlessly continue working.

“A lot of agencies are going in that direction, and so we’re now able to put equipment in their hands to train with what they would see out on any agency that they go to,” Champion said. “They’re going to probably see these things. They’re going to be familiar with the tool and the equipment.”

Before buying the $15,000 cutter, cadets used jaws of life donated by local fire agencies, but some had lost power and needed maintenance. Champion said the grant is a “game changer moving forward.”

Money also went toward equipment like water bottles and gloves, which cadets would’ve had to purchase for themselves without the grant. Cutting out-of-pocket costs is huge for the trainees.

By supporting the Fire Academy, Cloverlane helps Hancock invest in the community’s future leaders. Many firefighters working for local agencies are graduates of the program.

When Champion went through the academy in the late 1980s, it looked a little different than it does now. It’s grown from 300 to 700 hours of training, and cadets now graduate with a dozen certificates citing their qualifications in various subjects. Some things remain the same, though.

“I remember that the staff were very professional,” Champion said. “They had clear expectations, and they laid out a vision of what the career was like, then what the academy required. The expectations, the discipline.”

Ultimately the program set him up well for a career with the Santa Maria Fire Department. He retired as chief in 2020.

Throughout his tenure, Champion remained closely tied with the Hancock academy, teaching classes and mentoring students. Now he serves as the program’s coordinator, overseeing the battalion class and the teachers.

Jon Hooten, executive director of college advancement, oversees the nonprofit arm of Hancock, helping direct financial support to

Training grounds

Find more information about the Allan Hancock College Fire Academy at hancockcollege.edu. To see what it’s all about, follow on Instagram @ahc_fireacademy. Visit cloverlanefoundation.org for more information about programs supported by the nonprofit.

programs that need it most. This is the first year the Fire Academy received a donation from the Cloverlane Foundation.

Hooten said it’s amazing what the cadets learn in a few months, and he gives credit to Champion’s “remarkable” leadership.

“[Champion] leads with both strength and compassion and a commitment to what the fire service is all about,” Hooten said. “He just brings so much knowledge, so much expertise but also a really contemporary understanding of what’s needed in this kind of public service.”

Highlights

• High schoolers are invited to apply for internships at the Lompoc Public Library to support the summer reading program and free lunch service. Interns will complete three hours

of paid training in June and work three-hour lunchtime shifts from June 15 to July 31. Benefits include an hourly pay of $16.90, free lunches, and the development of important job skills. The first 30 applications will be considered. Submit at governmentjobs.com/careers/lompocca.

• Registration is open for teen activities at the Abel Maldonado Youth Center through the city of Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department. The center offers crafting workshops on Wednesdays, a basketball tournament on Fridays, girls’ fitness classes on Saturdays, and a series for “prom-posal” preparation ahead of school dances. Students in grades six through 12 are welcome. Visit cityofsantamaria.org to register. m

Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@ santamariasun.com.

CUTTER OF METAL: Representatives of the Cloverlane Foundation presented the Allan Hancock College Fire Academy with a new battery-operated auto extrication tool. This equipment is part of multiple upgrades thanks to a $25,000 grant from the nonprofit.

Educating our children

What would be your creative, crafty activism?

44% Painting and drawing banners, flags, and signs.

28% Beading tiny acts of resistance.

14% Eye-opening 3D art.

14% Fiber and fabric arts for a cause. 7 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

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Lompoc school district should not support student walkouts at the expense of education

BY RON FINK

On Jan. 30, high school and junior high students in Lompoc and other parts of North County took part in demonstrations against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), (“Local high school students take part in nationwide walkouts to protest ICE,” Feb. 5).

The Lompoc Record reported that “at Lompoc High School, students were released early to participate and assembled in front of campus with signs bearing messages such as ‘ICE out of 805,’ ‘Impeach Trump Now,’ ‘No White Supremacy,’ and ‘F— ICE,’ while some waved the Mexican flag.”

The Sun’s article reports, “‘Lompoc Unified School District confirms that it had some students at secondary schools participate in peaceful, lawful protests and walkouts on Friday,’ Communications Specialist Caasi Chavez said via email on behalf of the district.

“‘Staff were well aware and prepared for the possibility,’ Chavez continued. ‘We recognize that students have First Amendment protection while at school and work, so we inform them of these rights, document absences accordingly, and monitor students who choose to participate.’”

It appears to me that the Lompoc school district is condoning absenteeism to support opposition to federal government authority instead of educating these young minds that we put in their care about the importance of following the laws enacted by the U.S. Congress.

It seems like local school districts have lost focus on what their mission is. There have been several other reports of similar student absences all over the county for the same type of demonstrations.

On its webpage, the Lompoc Unified School District says its goals are, among others: “ensuring all students graduate college- and career-ready” and “reach grade-level proficiency in English and math.”

The district has the distinction of failing to deliver on this commitment to our community when objectively measured against the state of California education standards. Keep in mind that California rates in the bottom third of the nation,

and the Lompoc district’s performance places it near the bottom compared to other districts in Santa Barbara County.

A previous column highlighted the Lompoc district’s results from the 2024-25 assessments in English language arts and mathematics, released in October 2025 by the California Department of Education, that show that 32 percent of students in grades K-8 and 11 in Lompoc met or exceeded state standards in English Language Arts, compared to 49 percent statewide. (“Lompoc’s school district is failing the community,” Nov. 12, 2025).

That means that about 66 percent of students graduate without being able to perform at grade level.

Instead of enabling and promoting school absence to support popular liberal causes, maybe district officials and the Lompoc Unified School District board of education should revert to their core mission of educating their charges on how to become employable in a society that requires a strong understanding of English language arts and mathematics.

Instead, the Santa Maria Times reported that “board President Tracy Phillips said staff could not legally stop students from leaving campus. She added that calling the event indoctrination ‘is the very antithesis’ of teaching students to think critically.”

The Encyclopedia Britanica explains that critical thinking is an “educational theory, is a method of thinking that uses thorough reasoning and unbiased examination of data to find a potential answer to a problem.”

How can students who have poor reading skills and very limited experience in life form an unbiased opinion of anything?

And during a school board meeting, the Times reported that “Skyler Petersen, president of the Lompoc Federation of Teachers, sharply criticized (a) board member (for) her statements suggested students were indoctrinated and warned such claims could endanger staff in the current political climate.” This same board member was taken to task for her statement by her fellow board members.

So, I looked up the definition of indoctrinate,

which Merriam-Webster defines as “to imbue with a usually partisan or sectarian opinion, point of view, or principle.” That appears to be exactly what the Lompoc Unified School District administration, school board, and the teacher’s union advocate by supporting, aiding, and encouraging students to support a “partisan or sectarian opinion, point of view, or principle.”

A dramatic change of direction is needed in the Lompoc Unified School District and other school districts that support organized marches by undereducated students who have not been taught the skills necessary to use “thorough reasoning and unbiased examination of data to find a potential answer to a problem.” m

Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.

Shut the dunes down to vehicles

Retired attorney John Donegan’s screed (“Learn to share,” March 5) is really off-putting. He likes vehicles on our beaches and wants to keep it that way.

Here, he has dredged up all the usual right-wing political claptrap in an attempt to make his point, wrong-headed though it is.

Well John, here’s something you missed: The Oceano/Pismo dunes is the only beach area in the entire state that allows vehicles such free rein, the reason being that it was grandfathered in here by entitled gearheads who then lawyered up bigtime (the mis-named Friends of Oceano Dunes), and no one here seems to have the connections or the cajones to shut the dangerous and destructive activity down entirely.

If that were to happen, tens of thousands of area residents (and taxpayers!) would then have a chance to enjoy the beach and dunes areas without having to dodge vehicular numbnuts from the Valley who think they have the divine right to do doughnuts in the dunes, trash the place, and spread their twocycle stink along the entire pristine shoreline. The now-missing SLO county residents would come on a regular basis, too, if they weren’t afraid for their very lives out there.

Donegan, as usual, your Trump is showing. How absolutely predictable. And wrong, too, also as usual.

John Winthrop Cayucos

Let workers finish the job on offshore wind

President Trump does not like windmills. In December, his Department of the Interior issued stop-work orders for five offshore windfarms along the Atlantic coast, putting thousands of workers out of a job just days before Christmas. Thankfully, a little more than a month later, federal judges ordered all the projects to move forward, putting workers back on the job and keeping the projects on track to power more than 2.5 million homes and businesses.

Right now, families across the country are shouldering the strain of unaffordable energy bills. Offshore wind is a clean, reliable, and ready-to-go solution. These five projects are already creating thousands of local jobs and helping to transition states away from fossil fuels.

This has been an intensely cold winter. Large portions of the country have been blanketed in snow and thousands of homes have lost power. While fossil fuel power plants struggle to stay on during winter storms, offshore wind is a reliable energy source that helps communities save money and keep the lights on. In fact, offshore wind is strongest in the winter and at night—right when we need it most.

I am calling on President Trump to stop his senseless attacks on offshore wind. Let the workers finish the job.

Stephen Van Domelen Paso Robles

The Santa Maria Joint Union

High School District

Special Education - Child Find

The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) seeks to identify, locate, and evaluate high school age students suspected of having a disability who may be eligible for special education services designed to meet their educational needs at no cost to families. This includes students that are highly mobile, migrant, experiencing homelessness, students that are wards of the state, and students attending private schools located within SMJUHSD boundaries. If you suspect your child has a disability, contact the school special education department or district office Special Education Department.

Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)

El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas

Preparatorias de Santa Maria

Educación Especial - Búsqueda de Estudiantes

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

Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)

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Follow Our Footsteps!

Standoff Opinion

Everyone wants a piece of the Trump administration these days. In what should be a surprise to no one who’s been following the Sable Offshore Corp. saga, the administration ordered the company to restart that pesky pipeline that leaked oil all over the Gaviota Coast more than 10 years ago.

And Sable did what it was told without wasting a single minute or paying attention to any of the lawsuits pending against the Texas-based oil company in the state of California or the laws it broke getting to the point where it is now.

We are now in a standoff: the state of California versus the federal government (aka Newscum vs. Trumpty-Dumpty). And California seems to be losing while the feds are pretending to do something about the $6 a gallon gas prices that will continue to increase thanks to an ongoing war with Iran that no one else but Israel wanted.

But don’t worry, the politicians are making their public statements and the environmental organizations are wagging their fingers.

Since the order came down on Friday, U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California), U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara), and the Central Coast Caucus with Assemblymembers Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) and Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) and State Sen. John Laird (D-Santa Cruz), among others, have sent out press releases condemning the action.

“President Trump is using the war in Iran as a pretext to override the will of Santa Barbara County residents and the state of California,” Carbajal said. “The reality is that restarting the Sable project would produce nowhere near

enough oil to lower the skyrocketing gas prices families are facing. … Jamming the Sable project through is a hollow solution.”

Let’s not forget that people in several countries across the Middle East are dying in the war as well. Gas prices seem like a secondary issue, but I digress.

The United States uses more than 20 million barrels of oil per day. Sable could potentially produce up to 1.5 million barrels per month, if it’s operating at full capacity. Call me crazy, but I don’t think that’s going to fix the issue. Every state representative on the Central Coast opposes the Trump administration’s efforts to restart this pipeline. No surprises there. And everyone promises to fight this thing until the end. Good thing we voted them into office. None of their promises have been able to slow the Sable freight train.

The Center for Biological Diversity insists that what’s happening is illegal. It just might be.

But Sable has never stopped doing what it’s doing in the face of fines, stop work orders, criminal charges, and lawsuits. The president is fighting an illegal war in a foreign country right now, where American troops have died and hundreds of Iranians have died. We’ve managed to further destabilize the Middle East, involved several other countries, and disrupted the global supply of oil. Winning!

It seems like Sable and Trump make excellent bedfellows, and together they’re standing against liberalism, democratically created rules of law, and environmental protections. Together, their propaganda is fighting the great conservative scapegoat: California.

I don’t think angry press releases are going to do anything to tip the balance. ❍

The Canary is sick of ‘statements’ that do nothing. Send some to canary@santamariasun.com.

Hot Stuff

COUNTRY TWANG

Tennessee-based group The Band Perry brings their country twang and electropop to the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez on Friday, March 27, at 8 p.m. Admission ranges from $40 to $70, and tickets can be purchased at chumashcasino.com.

—Angie Stevens

ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. (805) 928-7799. Kleindancesarts.com. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.

CREATIVITY HAS NO EXPIRATION DATE: LOCAL AUTHOR DEBORAH BRASKET ON PUBLISHING LATE IN LIFE Local author

Deborah Brasket and SBCAN Co-Executive Director Jeanne Sparks discuss how Brasket came to publish her debut novel, When Things Go Missing March 22 , 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 739-1836. sbcan.org/ creativity. Shepard Hall Art Gallery (Santa Maria Public Library), 421 South McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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

DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN

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

THE HOUSE AT POOH CORNER

Christopher Robin has decided to run away with his friends Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Tigger and the rest. Probably they’ll go to the North Pole or to the South Pole. For there is a dark, mysterious threat that he’s to be sent away to Education. Nobody knows exactly what or where that is, and if he’s sent to such a distant place, what can his friends possibly do without him? So it’s generally agreed that they’ll run away. As

the situation becomes clearer, Christopher Robin isn’t quite so sure that running away is the answer. March 20, 7 p.m., March 21

7 p.m., March 22 1:30 p.m., March 27

7 p.m., March 28 7 p.m. and March 29

1:30 p.m. $17.91-$23.27. my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SATURDAY CRAFTERNOON: DIY TOTE

BAG Get creative with a DIY tote bag!

This workshop is free, and all materials are provided. Registration is required, for patrons 18 and older. March 21 3-4:30 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SIP & PAINT: CENTRAL COAST POPPIES

Join for an evening of wine, creativity, and Central Coast Inspiration! Enjoy El Vinero wine by the glass or bottle. March 22 , 5-7 p.m. $38. (805) 354-0260. elvinero.com. El Viñero, 130 N. Broadway Suite A, Orcutt. STAND UP COMEDY AT GIAVANNI’S MARCH 28TH Giafunni’s continues to bring the comedy featuring nationally touring comics! We have Mikey M, Catie Housman and Taylor Glomstad, all regulars from the World Famous Comedy Store! March 28 8 p.m. $23.27. my805tix.com. Giavanni’s Pizza, 1108 E Clark Ave, Orcutt, (805) 934-8555.

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

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

ART WORKSHOP: ORIGAMI GARLANDS

Learn how to make a colorful garland of origami cranes or butterflies with a variety of decorative accents. March 22 2-4 p.m.

$30. calnatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

BETWEEN EARTH & SKY EXHIBIT

Featuring 20 dazzling photos of bright and beautiful birds amidst the backdrop of California wildflowers, Between Earth & Sky showcases some of local photographer Deborah Kalas’ most spirited work. Mondays, Thursdays-Sundays. through April 20 calnatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD Art Spot on Wheels painting in the vineyard classes provide a beautiful, stress-free environment. March 28 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $89. (805) 686-1208. brickbarnwineestate.com. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 West Highway 246, Buellton.

PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT BRICK BARN WINE ESTATE Are you looking for something unique to do in Santa Barbara County Wine Country? Why not join us at the picturesque Brick Barn Wine Estate. March 28 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $89. (805) 3258092. artspotonwheels.com. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton.

“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 COUNTY

AS YOU LIKE IT AGHS Theatre Company presents As You Like It. March 27, 7-9:15 p.m., March 28 7-9 p.m. and March 29 2-4 p.m.

$17. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Pioneer Valley High School Center Stage Theatre and Dance Company presents Fiddler on the Roof. March 26, 7-9 p.m., March 27, 7-9 p.m. and March 28 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. $25.50$30.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA

Check the venue’s calendar for storytelling workshops, lectures, movie nights, and discussions held on a periodic basis. ongoing thelavra.org/home. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

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

65TH ANNUAL FINE ARTS AWARDS –LIVE STUDENT COMPETITION

Celebrate the creativity and talent of local high school students at the 65th Annual Fine Arts Awards, presented by The Monday Club. March 22 1-3 p.m. Free. themondayclubslo.org/event-6402099. The Monday Club, 1815 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-0594.

ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES

Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus exposure to Los Angeles talent agents. All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

BENEFIT PREVIEW PERFORMANCE OF WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF SLO REP will host a preview performance of the Tony Award-winning play to benefit AAUW Atascadero scholarships and other programs. March 26 7-10 p.m. $50. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece. Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP: LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

FREE 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.

INTRODUCTION TO MONOPRINTING WORKSHOP WITH JUNKGIRLS Learn monoprinting with Gelli plates using acrylic paint, botanicals, stencils, and found objects to create unique textured prints for collage, journaling, cards, or framed art. March 21 2-4:30 p.m. $95. (805) 439-0123. JunkGirls, 870 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo, junkgirls.com. LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. (805) 441-8257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.

MEMORY LANE COLLAGING CLASS

Let’s have some fun and take a walk down memory lane. Receive step-by-step instructions for creating a memorable vintage collage. March 21 12-4 p.m. $45. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. MOBILE CLAY CLASSES Offering handbuilding, throwing, and ceramic decorative arts. All ages and abilities are welcome. Call for more info. ongoing (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/ book-online. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo. PAINT A PREMADE POTTERY PIECE! Drop into the studio to pick out and paint a premade piece! There is fun for all ages, and prices are based upon size. Mondays, Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2-7:30 p.m. $30$75. app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule. php?owner=22676824&appointmentTy pe=35974477. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis

SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS

This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age.

Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Familyfriendly open studio welcomes all ages and skill levels. Book online in advance.

Bring an idea; we assist with wheel or handbuilding! Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com/. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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.

WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?

This timeless drama challenges audiences to confront the complexities of love, communication, and the human desire for connection, making it a profoundly unforgettable experience. Fridays, 7-9 p.m., Saturdays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. and Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through April 12 $28-$47. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/shows/whos-afraidof-virginia-woolf/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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 Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE MARCH

2026 FEATURED ARTISTS See the seven new featured artists on display until the end of March. Through March 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com/. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE

PRESENTS “PACIFIC LIGHT” AN OIL PAINTING GROUP SHOW “Pacific Light” features fine art oil paintings by Joan Brown, Carol Astaire, and Patricia Newton in Gallery at Marina Square. Through March 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com.

Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS

CARY LARSON-MCKAY, EXHIBITING MIXED MEDIA

SMALL WORKS See mixed media small works by Cary Larson-McKay, watercolor, collage, and more in the Craft Atelier Space in Gallery at Marina Square. Through March 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS

TERESA FERGUSON, FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY Central Coast photographer Teresa Ferguson exhibits majestic landscapes of the central coast in the Upper Gallery at Gallery at Marina Square. Through March 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS:

GRANT KREINBERG & LORA

SALVADOR, PHOTOGRAPHY

Discover a fine art photography exhibition by Grant Kreinberg & Lora Salvador in the Upper Gallery in Gallery at Marina Square. Through March 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com.

Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

CRYSTAL CLARITY

A Crystal Clarity Sound Bath experience will take place inside Mystic Nature in Nipomo, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., on Friday, March 20. The therapeutic sound of singing bowls and drums will invite participants into deep relaxation. Tickets range from $23.97 to $33.98 at my805tix.com.

OTHER DESERT CITIES Set in Palm Springs in 2004, “Other Desert Cities” by Jon Robin Baitz centers on the wealthy, politically conservative Wyeth family.

See in play out on stage at By The Sea Productions. March 20 7 p.m., March 21 , 7 p.m. and March 22 , 3 p.m. $23.27. my805tix.com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.

SUCCULENT WORKSHOP Join us for a hands-on Mosaic Pot Workshop. March 21 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $40. (805) 927-4747. cambrianursery.com. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS 4TH ANNUAL WALK AND ROLL FOR INCLUSION AWARENESS EVENT Help celebrate the strength and resilience of people with disabilities throughout Santa Barbara County! Walk-and-Roll is open to people of all ages and abilities. March 28 9:30 a.m.-noon $10-$25. (805) 566-9000. momentum4work.org. Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.

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

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

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ADULT SOFTBALL Let’s play ball! The City of Arroyo Grande’s Adult Softball League is a fun and competitive program offering leagues for Coed Teams and Men’s Teams. Sundays, 3-9 p.m. through May 17 $671. (805) 473-5474. arroyogrande.org/709/ Adult-Sports. Soto Sports Field, Ash Street, Arroyo Grande.

BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. Starts at $70. ongoing (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, 5:156:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

CRYSTAL CLARITY SOUND “BATH”

JOURNEY / NIPOMO Step into the luminous sanctuary of crystal and gemstone energy at Mystic Nature and take a gentle, nourishing journey through sacred sounds while nestled among the crystals—an experience designed to support clarity, renewal, and intentional living. March 20, 6-7:30 p.m. $23.97$33.98. my805tix.com. Mystic Nature, 330 W. Tefft, Unit E, Nipomo.

DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail.com for details and reservations. ongoing (805) 619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

FILLED LOCAL A gathering for foster, adoptive, and kinship moms with a focus on connection, refreshment, teaching, and fun. March 20, 5-9:15 p.m., March 21 , 9:30 a.m.-9:45 p.m. and March 22 1:30-4:30 p.m. $150. (805) 748-3628. filledretreat.com/filled-local. Calvary Chapel Arroyo Grande, 1133 Maple St, Arroyo Grande.

MORE EVERYDAY IMPROV: SKILLS FOR LIFE Interactive applied improvisation classes build empathy, emotional intelligence, resilience, and creativity through accessible, laughter-filled exercises. No experience is required; attend individual sessions or the full series. Every other Sunday, 6-7:30 p.m. through March 29 $15 each or $75 all. theagilemind.co/. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande, (805) 270-5523.

MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 dropin; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

PONY PICTURES Take a photo with a pony at the Exploration Discovery Center. March 21 9 a.m.-noon. Free. (805) 473-1421. Exploration Discovery Center, 867 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.

QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach. QI GONG: MINDFUL MOVEMENTS FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Balance your mind, body, and spirit with Qi Gong — gentle stretching and strengthening movements that promotes physical wellbeing and inner peace. This is geared towards all fitness levels and ages. Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach.

Just as young noble Jane is ready

Just as young noble Jane is ready to tie the knot, she's whisked away by "The Nameless Piratess," the most infamous lady pirate on the seas! Together, they set sail on

Just as young noble Jane is ready to tie the knot, she's whisked away by "The Nameless Piratess," the most infamous lady pirate on the seas! Together, they set sail on a wild quest to unearth a witch's treasure on a treacherous island. But here's the real question: Will Jane be rescued, or will she ditch her bridal gown for a swashbuckling pirate's hat and chase after enchanted riches? Yo-ho-ho, the plot thickens! a

the knot, she's whisked away by "The Nameless Piratess," the most infamous lady pirate on the seas! Together, they set sail on a wild quest to unearth a witch's treasure on a treacherous island. But here's the real question: Will Jane be rescued, or will she ditch her bridal gown for a swashbuckling pirate's hat and chase after enchanted riches? Yo-ho-ho, the plot thickens! a new work by Ben Abbott

Just as young noble Jane is ready to tie the knot, she's whisked away by "The Nameless Piratess," the most infamous lady pirate on the seas! Together, they set sail on

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 13

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS

Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. (805) 481-6399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

30-DAY BREATH AND RESET JOURNEY

FOR WOMEN Wired at night, drained all day? Reset your body in 30 days. Focus on breath practices to calm stress, sleep deeply, and restore lasting energy. Registration is required. Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody.com. Live Webinar, online, SLO County.

ASTRONOMY NIGHT AND STARGAZING

Experience guided stargazing with telescopes, exploring planets, nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters. This is a familyfriendly event with a night sky tour and and telescope viewing. March 21 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

THE BEAUTIFUL MOVEMENT

INAUGURAL EVENT The Beautiful Movement is a celebration of liberalism and democracy, featuring speakers, games, live music and more! Come and let’s save this sinking ship! March 21 12-4 p.m. Free. Gazebo Mitchell Park, 1400 Osos St, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-7306, slocountyband.org.

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) 9059274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.

CEREMONY SKATE SHOP

ANNIVERSARY SHOW March 28 , 3 p.m.

$12.56. my805tix.com. Ceremony Skate Shop, 1235 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

CIRQUE KALABANTÉ Afrique en Cirque fuses Guinean culture, acrobatics, and live Afro-Jazz, with dazzling feats, human pyramids, and music on kora and percussion celebrating strength and agility. March 20, 7:30 p.m. (805) 7564849. calpolyarts.org/20252026-season/ cirque-kalabante. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

CITY FARM SLO’S YOUTH

EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM Check site for more info on programming and summer camps. ongoing cityfarmslo.org. San Luis Obispo, Citywide, SLO.

DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) 280-5800. margotschaal.com/ qigong. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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

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

FRIENDS OF THE ARROYO GRANDE

LIBRARY ART AUCTION The first ever art auction fundraiser for Friends of the AG Library is now live. Includes work

by local artist Ellen November. Every 30 days, 9 a.m. Various. (310) 384-6912. app.galabid.com/aglibrary/items. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT

GROUP A safe place to share feelings of depression with those who suffer and those who have recovered to a full, healthy outlook on life. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. KIPS AND FLIPS TUMBLING AND BARS CLINIC

Build your skills at our Kips and Flips clinic! Even beginners can start working on the fundamentals of these intermediate skills. All levels welcome are, for ages 5 to 17 years. March 21 1-3 p.m. $25. (805) 5471496. performanceathleticsslo.com.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE Stretch into yourself under the beautiful oaks and fresh air of this idyllic country setting. Suitable for all levels, these classes emphasize the gentler side of yoga and adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for five-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Tiber Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, 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.

MISSIOIN SAN LUIS OBISPO DOCENTS

ORIENTATION MEETING Mission

SLO Docents give free daily tours for visitors of all faiths. Orientation for new docents - help share the special story of Mission SLO! Third Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Free. 657/465-9182. missionslodocents.org/. Mission San Luis Obispo

JUNE 19-21

Eyes of Salt - CenterpointDiscourage

FRIDAY, MARCH 20 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

Irah Nox, Mark of the Altar, Ghostframe, Vicious SATURDAY, MARCH 21

Humdinger Brewing, SLO Rebel Heart Live

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 Blast and Brew, Atascadero

An Evening of Jazz with Genesys Project

SATURDAY,

Pottery, Atascadero

The Motet w/ Michael Wilbur Of Moon Hooch

Rock, SLO

fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement.

Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org.

Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

SPRING OPEN HOUSE Take advantage of this rare chance to set foot inside the mostly unrestored La Loma Adobe, part of which was constructed in 1782. There will be guided tours, outdoor displays, and light refreshments. March 29 , 2-4 p.m. Free. facebook.com/search/ top?q=friends%20of%20la%20loma%20

adobe. La Loma Adobe, 1590 Lizzie St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 528-1066.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace for this Crows End Retreat outdoor class, which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email for location and to reserve a spot.

Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+

AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN

CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Fourth Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.

TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT

GROUP This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated emotional support group to be heard,

share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like your own. Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY “FEATHERS AND FEDORAS”

SPEAKEASY GALA BENEFITTING

LOS OSOS CARES

Enjoy this costume gala, with red carpet-photographed entry, no-host cocktail bar, gourmet appetizers and desserts, and a silent and live auction. The movie Chicago will follow at 5:45 p.m. March 23 4:30-8 p.m. $25. (805) 592-2701. LosOsosCares. com. Bay Theatre, 464 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.

BOAT AMERICA CLASS The US Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering this class for all boaters in need of the mandated California Boater Card. Contact Bob Smirl at the phone number provided. March 25 , 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $30. (805) 225-7930. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, morrobay.ca.us.

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) 7722840, sttimothymorrobay.org.

CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom). For information, call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/.

metaphysically minded individuals that have been meeting for many years now in the Coalesce Chapel. Club offers a supportive metaphysical based community. Members discuss a different topic each week. All are welcome to join. Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10-$15. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP Have a topic, book, or article you wish to discuss with interested and interesting people? Join this weekly meeting to discuss it, or simply contribute your 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.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

BAR TAKEOVER THURSDAYS Join us Thursdays to meet and chat with the winemaker of the flight we’re featuring that week. Thursdays, 4-7:30 p.m. $15$30. (805) 623-5129. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, stellerscellar. com.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY Head to Food

Truck Friday, with wine bottle specials and local food trucks every Friday at the Wine Stone Inn. Fridays, 4-9 p.m. through April 24 Free. (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA

DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays (805) 922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE

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

Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654.

LEARN TO SAIL AT MORRO BAY

YACHT CLUB! Learn to sail at the Morro Bay’s only sailing school: Morro Bay Yacht Club. These sessions are led by competent, responsible sailing instructors. Expect a great experience, with the goal of each student being comfortable in commanding their own sailboat. There’s a focus on teamwork, developing leadership skills, and having fun. Through Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $450. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Yacht Club, 541 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, (805) 772-3981.

MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS

DISCUSSION GROUP A group of

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.

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.

Nature Rhythms: Mindful Drumming, Song, Connection

By Morning - Tribute to the Music of George Straight

The Spicy Singer

Rock, SLO

Hot Stuff

cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

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

TAP THURSDAY Head to Tap Thursdays at the Wine Stone Inn every week, featuring $5 draft beers and $5 Cava’s. Thursdays, 3-9 p.m. through April 16 Free. (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.

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

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

WINE BINGO WEDNESDAYS Join Wine Bingo Wednesday at the Wine Stone Inn –– the original bingo night in Old Orcutt. The event will occur weekly with the purchase of an adult beverage. Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. through April 29 (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY PACIFIC POURS Join on our oceanfront lawn, for an open-air afternoon of wine, unlimited tacos, and live music by the ocean. March 21 , 12-4 p.m. $55. (805) 773-1011. event.marriott.com. Vespera Resort, 147 Stimson Ave., Pismo Beach.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

H APPY 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.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE GATEHOUSE Experience an afternoon of live music with Ruby Jane and Estate-grown wines at The Gatehouse. March 21 , 12-2 p.m. (805) 688-0881. tockify.com. The Gatehouse at Bein Nacido, 3503 Rancho Tepusquet Road, Santa Maria.

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.

OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. (805) 478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.

SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

THE BAND PERRY LIVE Hear Tennessee-based group The Band Perry perform live at Chumash Casino Resort. Get tickets and additional details at the link. March 27 8 p.m. $40-$70. chumashcasino.com. Chumash Casino Resort, 3400 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez, (800) 248-6274.

EVERCLEAR Get ready to sing along to “Santa Monica,” “Father of Mine,” and “Wonderful” when 90s alternative rock legends Everclear take the stage at Solvang. March 27 7-9 p.m. $125. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest.org. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

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

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

KARAOKE AT COLD COAST BREWING CO. Pick out a song, bring your friends, and get ready to perform. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m.

COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 819-0723, coldcoastbrewing.com.

YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AGHS BAND AND CHOIR SPRING CONCERT Listen to the Arroyo Grande High School Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Percussion Ensemble, and Choir perform their Spring concert. March 19 7-8:30 p.m. $10. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

CLARK CENTER PRESENTS: THE ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA EXPERIENCE, FEATURING EVIL WOMAN – THE AMERICAN ELO See this dynamic performance that will reimagine Jeff Lynne’s fusion of orchestral elegance and classic

rock with vibrant visuals and masterful musicianship. Tickets and more info are available at the link. March 20 7:30-9:30 p.m.

$49-$75, Platinum $85; Senior & Student Discounts. (805) 4899444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly event with barbecue offerings and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, (805) 925-3500.

THE LOUNGE AT BESO An upscale after-hours nightclub experience. With limited capacity and a dress code. For ages 21 and over. Fridays, 10 p.m. my805tix.com. Beso Cocina, 1050 Willow Road, Nipomo.

WEST COAST PERFORMING ARTS CONCERTS PRESENTS:

MOTOWN MANIA! THE GOLDEN HITS OF THE TEMPTATIONS

& THE SUPERSTARS OF MOTOWN Revisit the classic songs and stars of the Motown era complete with heart-stopping harmonies, dazzling choreography, and the memorable hits you love most from Motown’s golden age! March 21 7:30-9 p.m. $45-$65. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS

THE BRIAN HO B3 ORGAN TRIO Brian Ho is a modern master of the Hammond B3 organ tradition. Hear him perform live with his trio. March 21 , 7:30-9:30 p.m. $12.56-$39.34. my805tix.com. Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo. THE BUNKER SLO PRESENTS: AN EVENING OF JAZZ WITH THE GENESYS PROJECT AND SPECIAL GUESTS Hear The Genesys Project live at The Bunker SLO. Tickets can be found at the link. March 21, 6:30-10 p.m. $12.56-$15.77. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

CUESTA WIND ENSEMBLE & SLO WIND ORCHESTRA: “A TAPESTRY OF WINDS” Join us for Tapestry of Winds, as the Cuesta Wind Ensemble teams up with the SLO Wind Orchestra for a thrilling joint concert! March 21 3 p.m. $12-$32. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo. FORBES ORGAN SERIES: AMELIE HELD Organist Amelie Held, acclaimed for her red shoes and global performances, showcases a wide-ranging repertoire from early to contemporary music on the Forbes Pipe Organ. March 22 , 2 p.m. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts.org/20252026-season/amelie-held. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. m

WELCOME TO THE SOUNDTRACK OF FREEDOM

THE BAND PERRY

FRIDAY, MARCH 27 / 8PM TICKETS START AT $40

LOS RIELEROS DEL NORTE

FRIDAY, APRIL 3 / 8PM TICKETS START AT $55

REVISITING CREEDENCE

FRIDAY, APRIL 17 / 8PM TICKETS START AT $30

BILL ENGVALL

FRIDAY, APRIL 24 / 8PM TICKETS START AT $79

REGULO CARO

SATURDAY, MAY 2 / 8PM TICKETS START AT $40

ARTS BRIEFS

Lompoc Pops presents an evening of hits by

Ella Fitzgerald

Calling all fans of jazz and American pop hits.

The Lompoc Pops Orchestra is performing a show dedicated to Ella Fitzgerald’s portfolio on March 29 at 4 p.m. Audience members will cherish the sounds of nostalgia from the era of soul, guided by the Great American Songbook. Though loosely defined, the songbook is a treasure trove of popular music from the 1920s to the 1960s.

“This event promises an unforgettable evening of music, paying tribute to one of the most iconic voices in American jazz,” according to press materials.

Prepare to hear numbers like “’S Wonderful,” “Who Cares,” and “Misty” with Kathryn Loomis as a vocal soloist and Mitch Latting as a vocal and trumpet soloist. Éva Alhadeff is featured as the young artist soloist.

Join the orchestra for its performance at the First United Methodist Church, located at 925 N. F St. in Lompoc.

General admission costs $25, and tickets for students with an ID cost $5. Children 12 years and younger can attend at no cost. Buy tickets at the door or before the show at The Box Shop or Lompoc Valley Florist.

Call (805) 733-1796 or visit lompocpopsorchestra.net for more information.

A local writer hosts an encouraging book talk in Santa Maria

Paso Robles author Deborah Brasket will discuss why it’s never too late to pursue life’s creative endeavors at the Santa Maria Public Library on March 22. The catalyst for the book talk, Creativity Has No Expiration Date, was the publication of her 2025 debut novel, When Things Go Missing, which she wrote later in life.

“Like many women, I’ve been creating things my whole life: in my home and family, my career and community,” Brasket said in press materials. “Publishing novels is just the latest bloom. Creativity truly has no expiration date.”

When Things Go Missing follows a family in turmoil after the mother disappears, causing her distant husband and two adult children to try to put the pieces back together. It’s available for purchase at Gavin’s Books in Santa Maria or online at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. A limited supply will be available at the book talk.

The Santa Barbara County Action Network (SBCAN) and Friends of the Santa Maria Public Library sponsored the free event. Brasket and SBCAN’s co-executive director, Jeanne Sparks, will lead the conversation at Shepard Hall from 2 to 4 p.m. Brasket will sign copies, read passages from her novel, and answer questions about her journey. Registration is required online at sbcan.org/creativity.

Brasket’s second novel, This Sea Within will be published in June. Reach out to the author by visiting deborahjbrasket.com. m

On the scene

A Central Coast artist paints today’s landscapes for tomorrow’s remembrance

BY MADISON WHITE

When Katy Smith tells people she’s going painting in Orcutt, she gets puzzled looks in return.

“They’re like, ‘Where do you paint in Orcutt?’ As if there’s not something here to paint,” Smith said. “There are so many beautiful places in Orcutt to paint, and you just have to stop long enough and take it in and realize how pretty it is where we live.”

Often people’s next thought is that she must be painting a sandy saltwater scene, which is pretty, Smith admitted, but so are the other sites she scouts.

Her 9-by-12-inch pieces are done in plein air, all in one sitting, because Smith feels “it’s just not very inspiring” to paint inside a studio. One Thursday morning in March, Smith and a friend painted at the corner of Hummel Drive and Foster Road in Orcutt near the Richards Ranch site. There was a light breeze, and the birds were chirping.

One of her goals is to paint scenes that may soon disappear, like Mud Lake, a neighborhood basin that may be developed into a soccer complex, Smith said. But her latest project is documenting the pre-development landscape at Richards Ranch in Orcutt, a controversial housing and commercial project that moved forward through the county last year. Smith and fellow artists go to the site periodically with their canvases and paints, not to take a side on the matter but to record scenes that may not be visible in the future.

“It’s been quite the controversial subject here in Orcutt, so we’ve been going over and paint[ing] there for the last eight months to try and capture

the views of the beautiful eucalyptus groves and trails and such that are in that area before it’s gone,” Smith said.

On top of the seasons changing, Smith’s paintings of Richards Ranch also depict the start of the stoplight installation at Hummel Drive and Union Valley Parkway. Now that construction has started, it’s not as peaceful. Smith said that after more than a dozen completed paintings, her project is nearing its end.

“I want to make sure that the images are preserved of what the area looked like before we change them, … from being just a natural environment to putting high-density housing or tearing out all the trees,” Smith said.

The artist said 99 percent of her work is done with oils out in the field after scouting locations at different times of the day to find the perfect lighting. Landscape paintings are the “pinnacle of art” in her eyes. Smith revels in experiencing nature in the moment through her creative process.

“I get to focus in on all those little details,” Smith said, “and really feel the location and be able to put that on canvas and take it home with me.”

To start her plein air mornings, the painter brings her breakfast and a Frappuccino on a stroll while she picks her subject. Passersby often stop to chat with Smith because it’s unusual to see someone painting outside in Orcutt.

One of her favorite parts of the job is meeting others from the community that she loves so much. Some are artists themselves or enthusiasts who are curious about Smith’s work, often glad she’s recording the natural landscape before it’s gone.

Her next step is toning the canvas. Then she jumps right in, unlike some painters who sketch and conduct a color study before putting brush to canvas.

“Most of the time it works out,” Smith said. “I feel

While it’s still here

To view and purchase paintings by Katy Smith, visit her website katysmithartist.com. She’s active on Instagram @katy_smith_artist and Facebook @katysmithartist. Find her work at Art Center Morro Bay, Costa Gallery in Los Osos, and Orcutt’s Steller’s Cellar.

like I have a pretty high percentage of paintings that I’m happy with when I’m done with them.”

Smith shows her work at Steller’s Cellar in Orcutt, the Wine Merchant Café in Los Olivos, Art Center Morro Bay, and Costa Gallery in Los Osos, which was a gallery she joined when she first pursued art professionally after raising her four children.

“I always knew that there was an artist in there, I just hadn’t put the time into it,” Smith said.

After a career teaching elementary school, Smith started to lead art lessons out of her home. She taught all kinds of media including animation, claymation, graphite drawing, and watercolors. She learned everything as she went, which was how she rediscovered her love for painting around eight years ago.

It began with watercolors. A friend asked Smith to teach her daughter watercolor painting, so Smith bought her first set of watercolors at the craft store and ended up falling in love with it.

Soon after, she visited a gallery in Old Orcutt, which she said doesn’t exist anymore.

“I wanted to see a watercolor painting in person because I didn’t know what they were supposed to look like and wanted to make sure I was doing it right before I taught this class,” the artist said.

A gallery attendant invited Smith to show her work there, but the new painter couldn’t believe it.

“I laughed at her and told her that I wouldn’t be doing that because I just started painting this week,” Smith recalled.

Nearly every day for the next year Smith worked on her paintings. She said the gallery encounter inspired her to continue growing as an artist, and she sought to learn a new skill on every canvas. Through YouTube videos, online courses, and self-evaluation, Smith charted her path toward becoming a professional artist.

The first piece she offered to the world was completed in the spring of 2020. She was confident the painting of Old Orcutt Market would sell. A few hours after posting it on Facebook she received three offers. Since then, she’s made many more paintings and learned a lot more about being a professional artist. It’s all-consuming, she said, and everywhere she goes she’s thinking about putting a certain scene onto her canvas.

On the day in March that she painted the intersection of Hummel and Foster, Smith had a painting in her car ready to ship out to a buyer. It was a piece from the Richards Ranch series. The buyer went to high school with Smith, but he’d since moved out of the state.

He wanted the painting because he remembered riding his bike through Richards Ranch to school, before there were any plans to turn the land into anything else. m

Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@ santamariasun.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LOMPOC POPS ORCHESTRA

SELF-TAUGHT: Orcutt artist Katy Smith is known for plein air paintings of California landscapes. One of her most recent projects was documenting the natural environment before development at Richards Ranch.

COURTESY OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY ACTION NETWORK

CAREFUL HANDS: Katy Smith often only uses one brush during her painting sessions, though she keeps a few extras in her bag.

JUMP RIGHT IN: A few hours is usually all it takes for Katy Smith to finish a 9-by-12-inch painting.

Underwhelming

In his directorial feature-length debut, writerdirector Ian Tuason helms this psychological supernatural horror film about popular paranormal podcast host Evy (Nina Kiri), who is haunted by recordings anonymously send to her and her podcast partner, Justin (Adam DiMarco). (126 min.)

Glen: Look out, Ringu (1995), there’s a new haunted recording in town, and this one is strictly sound based. Throw in a little The Blair Witch Project (1999) vibe, some Paranormal Activity (2007), and you’ve got the recipe for a derivative-low budget horror flick that’s long on atmosphere but short on substance. It all takes place in Evy’s childhood home, where she’s watching over Mama (Michèle Duquet), who’s in non-responsive in hospice care. Evy and Mama are the only two characters who appear on-screen. Everyone else—podcaster Justin, the two characters in the mysterious recordings (Keana Lyn Bastidas as Jessa and Jeff Young as Mike), and a few other characters on phone calls—are disembodied voices. As a debut, it has its merits, and we saw it in a theater with Dolby Atmos, which is amazing surround sound, but I doubt this film will translate to home viewing. The atmosphere won’t come through, and the handful of jump scares won’t be enough. Anna My exact words at the conclusion of this film were, “I’m so mad right now. This movie

THE NIGHT AGENT

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2023-present

Where’s it showing? Netflix

UNDERTONE

What’s it rated? R

could have been an email.” Even with some sleep in between and a true crime docuseries to distract me since, I still feel the swell of dissatisfaction just thinking about spending more than an hour and a half of my time watching this. I should be the prime audience—I love spooky. I have scary-, mysterious-, or curiosity-driven podcasts playing through my earbuds at least six hours a day. I love a weird old house filled with an alarming collection of Catholic paraphernalia. If you can’t hook this fish with this film, good luck out there in the open water. What tried to play as clever by only having Evy and her mom appear on-screen seemed to me like an easy way out of paying people for on-screen time. This film was so obnoxiously boring.

What’s it worth, Anna? Don’t bother

What’s it worth, Glen? Matinee

Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards

RPX Santa Maria, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande

Glen Oh boy. I hope writerdirector Tuason doesn’t read your review. His feelers will be hurt. I think some audiences will enjoy the film. It creeped me out a little bit, and soundwise, it was disturbing. I already hate the shrill, urgent sound of a whistling teakettle, and that sound effect was not used sparingly. I kept thinking, “Can’t you hear that? Run your ass downstairs and turn it off!” I don’t listen to podcasts much except when forced to on long drives with my favorite Murderino, but Evy and Justin’s podcast, titled The Undertone, seemed boring compared to the stuff you’ve forced me to listen to. If you’re horror obsessed, hit a matinee, but if

I had missed this one, I wouldn’t be sad. Anna The two hosts are also very willy-nilly about their recording time—Oh, Evy is feeling weird, let’s pick up in a few days … and then again … but they release every Friday? And host a weekly live podcast on Mondays? OK, sure. Also, they somehow pack eight of the 10 recordings into one episode and leave just two for the finale? Who is planning this? This is chaotic mess at best, and I can’t stand it. There are motherhood ties and a vague yet easily forgotten reference to Evy having a past drinking problem. She’s got a boyfriend

who we hear from exactly once, and weird guilt around her lack of prayer time. This nothing burger of a film is just getting me riled up again. I’m not here to tell anyone how to live their life, but I suggest a jaunty walk or spending some time with one of those 3D image books that were so popular in the ’90s—both will prove much more stimulating than Undertone. ∆

New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

Now in its third season (and renewed for a fourth), The Night Agent is a bingeable, implausible espionage romp with a likeable protagonist. In the first season, FBI Special Agent Peter Sutherland (Gabriel Basso) saved a lot of lives thwarting a DC Metro bombing. A year later he’s working for White House Chief of Staff Diane Farr (Hong Chau), who has him manning a seldom used phone service—the secret Night Agent program. The phone rings, thrusting Peter into the center of a vast conspiracy. It’s a great setup, and each subsequent season is better.

There are too many characters and plot twists to make sense of in a short review, but Basso is a great lead— earnest, patriotic, but increasingly worldly enough to start seeing things in shades of gray instead of black and white. His Peter wants to do right, but as the story unravels, we see him beginning to shift to the importance of outcomes rather than strict ethics.

The third season’s main villain, Jacob Monroe (Louis Herthum), is a worthy opponent, and it’s fun to hate on U.S.

and FBI Deputy Director Aiden Mosley (Albert Jones), in The Night Agent, streaming on Netflix.

President Richard Hagan (Ward Horton) and his even worse wife, Jenny (Jennifer Morrison). (30 45- to 56-min. episodes).

—Glen

THE TRAITORS

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2023-present

Where’s it showing? Peacock

“Come one, come all, come friend, come foe,” states the great Alan Cumming—whose Moira Rose-inspired accent and incredible wardrobe unite to create what may be the greatest reality show host ever. There are plenty of versions of The Traitors , so if you (like me) absolutely binge through the four seasons of this one, you’ll have the bittersweet relief of knowing that there are still U.K., Australian, and celebrity versions to soothe you.

In season 4, the ride is wild. We’ve got Housewives galore, Bachelors, Love Island legends, and even actor Michael Rapport—perhaps the most sticky and salty nut in the mix. These folks go through challenges to boost up the prize bucket and spend each night voting out who they think is a Traitor. The Traitors murder a Faithful (non-Traitor) each night, and soon everyone is so stressed out and sleep deprived you can’t look away. This is the perfect way to play Mafia without any of the personal skin in the game—just watch sub-celebs spiral and enjoy every juicy outfit that

wears. While it may be fun to play the Traitor, I am a forever Faithful to this show. Bring it on, season 5! (57 approximately 50-min. episodes)

THE SKEPTIC: Evy (Nina Kiri), the non-believer of a pair of paranormal podcasters, starts experiencing strange phenomena as they listen to anonymously sent recordings, in Undertone, screening in local theaters.

Cumming

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

SAVE THE WORLD: Peter Sutherland (Gabriel Basso, center) works with his handler, Catherine Weaver (Amanda Warren),

BACKSTABBERS’ DELIGHT: Alan Cumming hosts the reality TV competition, The Traitors , streaming on Peacock.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PEACOCK

Sweet surprises

Central Coast bakers band together to deliver homemade goods to underserved youth

BY MADISON WHITE

Lee Coogan feels blessed that her birthday was always celebrated when she was a kid. So was her son’s, and so are her grandkids’. But some people aren’t as fortunate to get a slice of cake in honor of the year ahead.

Starting 10 years ago, a national nonprofit, For Goodness Cakes, set out to change that. It matches home bakers with local organizations from 27 chapters around the country to

provide celebratory sweets to at-risk youth. Coogan is the Central Coast chapter’s agency steward, connecting more than 200 bakers with children in need from Thousand Oaks to Paso Robles.

Recipients may be experiencing homelessness, living in foster care homes, going through cancer treatment, or struggling with other kinds of instability.

“To know that you can give back that way to people that haven’t been celebrated is what I enjoy the most,” Coogan said. “Because that could’ve been me. That could’ve been my son that never had a cake or a celebration.”

The Venturabased volunteer recruits nonprofits, municipal departments, and other groups to hop on board with For Goodness Cakes, ensuring they’re ordering regularly for the kids who walk through their doors. In the past two months her bakers have made around 50 desserts. Coogan added

three agencies in the past six months, bringing the Central Coast up to 22 partners total. But there’s a lot more potential, Coogan said.

She hopes to fill a gap between Nipomo and Santa Barbara with more eager bakers and organizations that want to help their community. For Goodness Cakes is especially active in Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay, and Arroyo Grande, she mentioned.

The whole process is powered by volunteers who donate their ingredients and time in the kitchen as a way of giving back. Bakers (amateurs or pros) register online and must pass a short food safety training course. Then they wait for a request to pop up on their portal and decide to accept it or not.

Most commonly, the agency requests treats for a birthday or graduation ceremony. There’s no age limit, and some recipients can be in their 20s.

“We have youth that age out of the foster system, and so we found that they could be 19 or 20 and are still getting helped by some of these agencies,” Coogan said. “We’ve sent out birthday cakes to 25-year-olds that are in some of these organizations and learning how to evolve and move into society.”

Kids choose between cakes, cupcakes, and other baked goods as well as their preferences on flavor, color, and theme.

Popular flavors are chocolate, confetti, and tres leches, often topped with 3D decorations, swirling piping, and colorful lettering. The last dessert Coogan delivered was for a birthday girl who wanted a chocolate cake with pink frosting. Coogan added different shaped sprinkles on

top for extra pizzazz.

“When you give them the ability to request what they would like, that even makes it more special,” she said.

Volunteers deliver their dessert to the agency within a specific time frame. Though they aren’t allowed to stick around to see the kids take a bite, the bakers usually have as much fun as those who eat their creations. Sometimes volunteers receive letters or photos from the agency describing the meaningful moments.

“I delivered a cake about three

for any orders that don’t get picked up by others. It’s how she started volunteering with the nonprofit a few years ago, wanting to get better at the craft and give back to the community.

“What better way? And I don’t have to eat it then because I don’t need it,” she said with a laugh.

‘To know that you can give back that way to people that haven’t been celebrated is what I enjoy the most.’

—Lee

Coogan, Central Coast For Goodness Cakes chapter agency steward

weeks ago here locally, and the woman wrote me back, … and said the child was so excited. They’d never had a birthday cake.”

While some volunteers bake professionally, For Goodness Cakes doesn’t turn anyone away based on their experience level.

“I have a new lady that signed up, and her first cake was in a 9-by-13 sheet pan. She just baked it, she frosted it, she put sprinkles, and said, ‘Happy Birthday,’” Coogan remembered. “The kids loved it because it’s personal. It’s special. Just for them.”

Even if bakers use a box mix, it’s better than no cake at all. Most of the children they serve eat meals during the day, but dessert is often left out of the equation.

In addition to coordinating the program on the Central Coast, Coogan is also a baker

The retired software professional has been baking ever since she can remember. Coogan said her mother didn’t spend much time in the kitchen, so she bought a Betty Crocker cookbook for her kids to help out. With their mom’s supervision, Coogan and her brother were cooking and baking since they were old enough to read recipes. Since joining For Goodness Cakes, the lifelong baker has perfected her cupcake game, too. The creative outlet is another part of the job that she looks forward to.

Spiderman’s face topped the very first cake she made for the nonprofit. Coogan bought special red and blue gel food coloring and strung webs across the frosting. The volunteer often peruses Pinterest for inspiration and searches Amazon for affordable decorations, exploring all the possibilities to make the children beam with excitement.

“The volunteers get as much joy out of it as the kids do,” Coogan said. m

Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@santamariasun.com.

It takes a village Local organizations and bakers interested in registering with For Goodness Cakes can visit forgoodnesscakes. org/centralcoast. The Central Coast branch can be found on Instagram @forgoodnesscakescentralcoast. Email centralcoastca@forgoodnesscakes.org with questions.

THE HAPPIEST BIRTHDAY: Lee Coogan started as a volunteer baker with For Goodness Cakes almost three years ago. Halfway into her time with the nonprofit, she became the Central Coast chapter’s agency steward, making sure organizations that need cakes are matched with bakers.

QUADRUPLE THE CHOCOLATE: The most popular request submitted to the Central Coast branch of For Goodness Cakes is chocolate cake. Just in the past two months, the chapter has delivered around 50 desserts to local at-risk children.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS: Founder of For Goodness Cakes Jaime Lehman started the national nonprofit in March 2016 by delivering four cakes. Now, a decade later, volunteers have delivered more than 50,000 desserts to at-risk children around the country.

NO FIGHTING FOR A SLICE: One of volunteer baker Lee Coogan’s most memorable creations was a boxingthemed cake for a boy on his 13th birthday.