Sun, March 26, 2026

DUD LEY HOFFMAN

Some stories stick. They unfold slowly over time and are a constant source of news. We’ve been covering some of those in the Santa Maria Valley since this paper was founded in 2000. For 26 years, Sun reporters have watched and written about Santa Maria’s downtown—complaints about how the mall killed it, how the city wants it to become more pedestrian friendly, and recent strides toward redevelopment. And we’ve also covered things like Mayor Alice Patino’s more than 26 years on the City Council and the evolution of the North Branch Jail. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood gets into all three issues to celebrate our 26th birthday [5]

Also, find stories about local high schools’ new AI guidelines [3]; a conversation with the Sun’s longtime cartoonist [23]; and the pizza spot celebrating 30 years of Alaskan comfort on the Central Coast [26]

•On March 23, U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) announced that he secured new federal funding for multiple Santa Barbara County-based projects, including $1.2 million for a fire station expansion in Santa Maria, and $850,000 for the county to help rebuild the Lompoc Animal Shelter. “This funding will strengthen the essential services and shared spaces that make Santa Barbara County a healthier, safer, and more connected place to live,” Carbajal said in a statement. “Delivering these federal investments is about strengthening the public resources that Santa Barbara County residents rely on every day.” During the spring of 2025, Carbajal began to push for these project funds through formal requests to the House Appropriations Committee for fiscal year 2026, according to his office. The funding was secured through the Community Project Funding (CPF) program. Built in 2002, Santa Maria’s Fire Station 1 needs an expansion to accommodate adding a new fire vehicle and associated fire personnel to help serve the city’s growing population. “This funding brings us significantly closer to completing a project that will strengthen emergency response in our downtown core and serve our community for the next 25 years,”

Santa Maria Mayor Alice Patino said in a statement.

Santa Maria Fire Chief Bradley J. Dandridge described the CPF funding as “a critical investment in the safety of our community.” Santa Barbara County 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann stated that the new funds for the Lompoc Animal Shelter will lead to “healthier, less-stressed animals, improved conditions for our staff and volunteers, and a facility that truly reflects the compassion of the Lompoc community.”

•With an aim to prohibit any Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) registered entities from listing a prediction contract that resembles a sports bet or casino-style game, U.S. Sens. Adam Schiff (D-California) and John Curtis (R-Utah) recently cointroduced the Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act. “Sports prediction contracts are sports bets—just with a different name. And yet, these contracts have been offered in all 50 states in clear violation of state and federal law,” Schiff stated on March 23. “Rather than enforce the law, the CFTC is greenlighting these markets and even promoting their growth. It’s time for Congress to step in and eliminate this back door which violates state consumer protections, intrudes upon tribal sovereignty, and offers no public revenue.”

•U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California) and Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) recently led eight other senators in urging U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to ensure a timely delivery of federal funds for the High School Equivalency Program (HEP) and College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP). These programs support educational opportunities for more than 8,000 agricultural farmworker students across the nation, according to Padilla’s office. In September 2025, the Education Department released HEP and CAMP funding, but did not issue any new grants. Two California HEP programs and two California CAMP programs received non-continuation letters in the middle of their funding cycles. “We are deeply concerned that any delays in administering the HEP and CAMP programs will result in irreversible damage to our students, families, and communities,” Padilla and other senators wrote in their March 20 letter. The senators stated that the Department of Education discontinued a total of 13 mid-cycle grants during fiscal year 2025. “The Department of Education currently has significant funding available this fiscal year to administer robust grant competitions,” the letter states. “We urge the Department of Education to follow the letter and spirit of the law by posting notices inviting applications as soon as possible to ensure that the HEP and CAMP programs are able to continue their vital work.” m

Santa Maria high schools implement first set of AI guidelines

When ChatGPT was publicly released in 2022, students in public Santa Maria high schools weren’t allowed to use it on schoolissued devices. The artificial intelligence ban created a discrepancy because students with cellphones or technology at home could still access the chatbot, but others couldn’t.

Since 2023, the Santa Maria Joint Union High Schol District began slowly introducing AI to students. Earlier this year the district adopted its first set of AI guidelines to support teachers and students in appropriate, safe uses of the technologies.

“It’s not going away, but you can’t let it replace you because if you let it replace your thinking and learning, then that’s the global fear of replacing jobs,” the district’s director of instructional technology, Matt Stockton, told the Sun.

Some teachers already had their own classroom rules, but Stockton favors a uniform approach, so everyone is on the same page. The goal is to cut out “unauthorized collaboration” with AI, as he put it.

In all the district’s high school classrooms, there are posters with imagery of a stoplight. The red, yellow, and green lights are meant to help teachers designate when using AI is acceptable and when it isn’t. Stockton’s team developed the stoplight after a year and a half of researching other districts’ policies and surveying local parents, staff, and students.

“We thought it was the simplest thing,” Stockton said. “We also wanted something that could kind of cross over the language barrier or cultural barrier. Something that you’re going to understand no matter what your background is.”

Each teacher is responsible for how they incorporate AI into their curriculum, and some won’t allow students to use it at all.

In practice, a yellow light assignment might look like using Google Gemini to collect sources for a research project, but students must cite the tool using the district’s new AI citation guide. Green lights could be for creating, Stockton explained, like for videos or podcasts, whereas red lights may signal assessment time.

Part of the reason for the district’s initiative was Assembly Bill 2876, passed in October 2024, Stockton explained during his presentation to the board of trustees at the March 10 meeting. It requires the California Department of Education to include AI literacy in its next curriculum revision.

Other sections of the district’s guidance include accountability, ethics, equity, community engagement, and security.

The district’s educational partnerships with Google and Microsoft protect the data privacy of students and staff with their school-issued login when they use contracted tools. The chatbots Gemini and Copilot are protected, meaning the district maintains control of all data collected about the students’ use. Other platforms like Magic School are protected, too.

“We know through our signed contract that none of your information leaves our organization. It doesn’t go to build their models or develop a profile on the user,” Stockton told the Sun. “If they’re using our tools, they’re safe.”

There are also alerts that flag administrators when students chat with AI about subjects like drugs, alcohol, depression, and violence.

One of the district’s next steps is to form an AI work group. Within the next year Stockton expects to have a team of staff, parents, and students who’ll give input on future direction.

Santa Maria Joint Union is also a key part of the Santa Barbara County Education Office’s AI roundtable with representatives from private schools, charters, and “just about” every district in the county, Stockton said.

“It’s been a really good opportunity to engage with all of the districts and start hearing about all the different things that we’re doing,” Stockton said. “It has made me feel pretty happy with the stuff we’re doing in Santa Maria Joint.”

Find the district’s AI guidance in Spanish and English at smjuhsd.org/link-one/aiguidance.

—Madison White

California sues Trump administration over Santa Ynez Unit restart

On March 23, California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Energy for ordering a restart of oil operations at the Santa Ynez Unit.

“In a breathtaking power grab,” Bonta stated, “the federal executive branch has asserted that [it] may preempt and supersede all state laws governing hazardous pipelines … in an effort to extract as much petroleum as it can from the coastal waters off of California.”

Oil flow at the Santa Ynez Unit halted in 2015 when one of its pipelines burst and spilled more than 120,000 gallons of crude oil at Refugio State Beach. Plains All American Pipeline owned the unit at the time.

While the unit’s current owner, Sable Offshore Corp., has faced pushback from multiple state and Santa Barbara County agencies over past work done to reboot the pipeline system, a federal decree on March 13 mandated that oil flow resume as a matter of national security.

U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright described the directive as responding to “supply disruption risks caused by California policies that have left the region and U.S. military forces dependent on foreign oil.”

One day after the decree, Sable began transporting Santa Ynez Unit oil through the Las Flores pipeline to Pentland Station in Kern County.

In his complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, state Attorney General Bonta described Sable as unhappy with California’s various permitting protocols to green-light a restart “not because they were taking longer than other similarly complex and environmentally sensitive reviews, but because the pipeline operator was severely undercapitalized and desperate to begin generating revenue.”

Bonta also called the Department of Energy’s justification regarding national security as “patently unreasoned.”

“Although international conflict has driven up oil prices globally by reducing oil exports from the Middle East, there is no actual shortage of crude oil in the United States,” Bonta stated.

He added that the Santa Ynez Unit’s expected gross oil rate of 50,000 barrels per day amounts to a fraction of a percent in the domestic energy market.

“Even if there were any marginal benefit to the ‘national defense,’ it would be vastly outweighed by the environmental and safety risks, as well as the unlawful and unconstitutional displacement of the state’s police powers and the intrusion upon the state’s sovereign property rights,” Bonta stated. “This court should declare that [Secretary Wright’s] order is unlawful.”

Following the Santa Ynez Unit’s revival, Sable Offshore Corp. announced in mid-March it expects to commence oil sales produced at the facility by April 1.

—Caleb Wiseblood

Solvang debates perceived conflicts about a new phone app

Before stepping out of the Solvang City Council’s March 23 meeting, Mayor David Brown playfully handed his gavel to Councilmember Louise Smith.

“We’re going to need it,” Smith joked, followed by some laughs on the dais, including from Brown.

As the council’s mayor pro tem, Smith didn’t resort to gavel-slamming at the hearing—which Brown recused himself from—despite some instances of city officials speaking over one another.

The topic of discussion: a new independent mobile phone app developed by Mayor Brown that prompted Councilmember Elizabeth Orona to voice conflict of interest concerns at the council’s previous meeting on March 9. She described the app as creating “a number of gray areas” by promoting specific businesses in town that pay Brown a monthly $250 fee to be featured. The council member then asked Solvang’s legal advisors to send Brown a cease and desist letter.

“Staff did some investigation between now and then, though it was a quick turnaround,” City Attorney Chelsea O’Sullivan told the council on March 23. “Staff’s not making a recommendation on whether to [issue a cease and desist], but we brought forward the information that we thought relevant for the City Council’s consideration of that potential action. Happy to take any questions.”

According to the staff report, Brown reached out to the city attorney back in December 2025 to request advice on any potential conflicts of

ASK CHAT: Santa Maria High School is one campus in the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District that implemented a first-of-its-kind handbook for artificial intelligence in every classroom.

interest he should be aware of while operating his new app business venture, Solvang Passport.

“That confidential legal advice has since been provided to the City Council under separate cover,” the report states. “In this case, the potential statutory conflicts seem to be manageable. … Ultimately, the mayor is personally responsible for determining whether he has a conflict of interest, whether he can be impartial, or whether he must recuse himself from a decision.

“And, just like any other city official,” the report continues, “the mayor would face personal liability for any future failure to comply with applicable conflict of interest rules, including failing to recuse when required under state law.”

One of the featured businesses on Brown’s new app, which encourages users to rack up points toward rewards by scanning QR codes at the different destinations it highlights, is the Solvang Trolley Ice Cream Parlor—co-owned by Councilmember Claudia Orona (no relation to Elizabeth).

While commenting on Brown’s voluntary recusal from the Solvang Passport discussion, Elizabeth asked staff if Claudia should also recuse, with caution to “a possibility of bias that might present itself.”

“OK, first of all, it is up to each individual council member to decide whether they have a potential bias or conflict of interest or not,” Claudia said, “because each individual council member [is] the one that’s going to take the heat, the fines, the public scorn, and the potential repercussions from the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC).

“That being said, personally, I think [the app] doesn’t represent any financial gain to me whatsoever,” she continued. “If anything, it’s cost me an ice cream cone that I have to give out for free.”

Elizabeth then asked Claudia: “Did you receive anything of value via representation on his application?”

“That is debatable,” Claudia responded, “because if it cost me giving away an ice cream cone that somebody was willing to pay for until they saw the QR code on the thing, then no, it did not drive anything of value.”

Councilmember Smith asked staff if the council could request that Brown “slow down” or pause from further managing Solvang Passport until the council has had more conversations and clarity about the issue.

City Attorney O’Sullivan said that council members could express any specific concerns in a letter to Brown, but “going farther to tell him to stop doing his business, I caution the council from doing that.”

After Elizabeth suggested that the council consider amending the city’s internal ethics policies, specifically regarding rules about self-reporting conflicts of interest, Claudia said that’s exactly why there are already FPPC protocols in place.

“If we think that a public official is not doing something right, anybody can file a complaint,” Claudia said. “There are institutions that deal with this. … That’s what the [FPPC] does. We already have the tools to deal with this sort of thing.

“[If] you think he’s doing something wrong, file a complaint,” she told Elizabeth. “They’ll do the investigation. They’ll do all the work for you.” m

—Caleb Wiseblood

Doctors, we want you to know

We see the choice you made: To believe in possibility, in progress and in purpose. You chose a path rooted in learning, science and a commitment to clinical excellence.

And, we see the choices you make: Every day, ordinary or impossible, to show up for those who need you. Your hands mend the broken and your words steady the uncertain.

You offer those we serve the confidence to hope, to heal and to move forward.

We want you to know how honored we are to stand beside you. How grateful we are for the care that you give, the standards you set and the humanity with which you practice medicine, every single day.

We’re proud. Really, really proud. Thank you for being a doctor.

Happy Doctors’ Day.

One byline after another

Some of the Sun’s earliest story subjects are still worth writing about

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Within its first year of covering the Santa Maria Valley, the Sun shined a light on local issues, leaders, and lore that continue to make headlines to this day.

Santa Maria’s desire to make its downtown core more walkable and attractive to pedestrians, for example, graced the cover of the Sun’s premiere issue, which hit stands on March 31, 2000. Today, city officials are hopeful the key to finally realizing this unhurried revitalization effort is just around the corner.

Before its first year was up, the Sun also reported on Santa Barbara County’s early preparations for building a Santa Maria Valley jail, which current leaders are now reappraising, while weighing in on a potential future expansion.

Three months shy of the Sun’s first anniversary, a portrait of Santa Maria Mayor Alice Patino—a council member at the time, the first woman to sit on Santa Maria’s dais since the 1930s—was on the paper’s cover with possibly the greatest headline in the publication’s 26-year history: “Ascent of a woman.”

You won’t find a better pun in all 1,300-plus issues under the Sun’s umbrella, but you can read more about the paper’s earliest subjects and how they continue to impact the region below.

Past, present, future

For its debut issue in 2000, the Sun looked at Santa Maria’s “lack of a traditional downtown” and interviewed city officials, business owners, and residents about what could or should be done to enhance the corridor.

The story begins in 1976, when the Santa Maria City Council opted to bulldoze more than 17 acres of the city’s historic downtown core to make way for an upcoming indoor mall—the Santa Maria Town Center, as we know it today.

“I was about 11,” lifelong Santa Maria resident Kathleen Wilson told the Sun in 2026 for the article you’re currently reading. A longtime city employee, Wilson has worked for Santa Maria’s Community Development Department since 2004.

Framed landscapes of Santa Maria

architecture, including glimpses of its original downtown, occupy her office’s walls, she said.

She remembers being stoked about the mall once it opened in ’76 and described it as “the happening place to be.” As much as she misses some aspects of her childhood tied to memories of Santa Maria’s original downtown, she has just as fond recollections of hanging out at the mall, especially for movie outings.

“Rocky and Star Wars were showing for like six months straight,” she said with a laugh.

She still goes to the mall for a movie every once in a while, including recently to see a new Elvis Presley documentary.

The Sun’s 2000 article included input from sources who blamed the mall’s construction for downtown Santa Maria’s perceived demise. Current city staff said that there are several downtown developments in the works that both critics and fans of the Santa Maria Town Center could consider a win-win.

The first of these projects, Community Development Director Chenin Dow said, is a multi-story apartment complex that broke ground in summer 2025 across the street from the mall. Anyone familiar with the project site will remember it as the retail building that once housed a Fallas, and a Mervyn’s before that.

The apartment complex’s developer, the Vernon Group, has a handful of additional housing, mixed-use, and commercial projects planned for Santa Maria’s downtown corridor as well, Dow said. But they’re not the only firm with an aim to boost activity in the area. On the northeast corner of the Santa Maria Town Center, the two-story segment local shoppers formerly knew as Sears will be the site of a new El Super grocery store, as well as two retail units with tenants yet to be determined by the project’s developer, the Charles Company.

TEARS FOR SEARS: Boarded up and shuttered since early 2020, the former home of Sears in Santa Maria is currently being retrofitted to accommodate a full-service grocery store, El Super, on its first floor and new retail spaces on the second.

PHOTO BY PIETER SAAYMAN

STORIED IN STATURE: The Heritage Walk Lofts— currently in construction where Santa Maria’s former Fallas retail store once operated—was the first of five Vernon Group projects in downtown Santa Maria to reach the groundbreaking phase.

PHOTO BY PIETER SAAYMAN

RETRO-ACTIVE: A look at historical pictures shows a different Santa Maria—one filled with old buildings, busy stores, and pedestrians walking on the street.

“They’re looking to open early next year,” Dow said about El Super.

When the Santa Maria Planning Commission approved the Sears remodel proposal in April 2025, Planning Commissioner Yasameen Mohajer said she’s looking forward to “how much life it’s going to bring to that corner”—a corner Planning Commissioner Esau Blanco referred to as “completely dead” at the time.

While bringing more visitors to the mall in general, the El Super project will hopefully appeal to residents—especially those who would rather walk than drive—looking for grocery store alternatives in “what’s essentially a food desert,” Santa Maria Principal Civil Engineer Mark Mueller told the commission. The next nearest grocery store to the mall is Vons, about a mile away.

No ‘get out of jail free’ cards

An artist’s rough rendering of what the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office envisioned for its North Branch Jail graced page 12 of the Sun’s second issue, which hit stands on April 7, 2000.

At the time, roughly 60 percent of inmates at the Sheriff’s Office’s main Santa Barbara jail were transported there by van from the county’s northern half. This reason among others led to the purchase of a 100-acre parcel of land at the corner of Betteravia and Black roads in the Santa Maria Valley.

“The building of the jail is not if, it’s only when,” former county Sheriff Jim Thomas said in the 2000 article.

That “when” occurred 22 years later, with the completion of the North Branch Jail. But it wasn’t easy, as the two-decade gap suggests, current county Sheriff Bill Brown recalled.

Once he became sheriff in 2007, he put together a special commission—made up of psychologists, attorneys, and other consultants—to study Santa Barbara County’s

jail overcrowding issues and put clear goals in place for the North Branch Jail’s development.

“We weren’t asking for a huge jail. We were wanting to build a smaller jail that would be the type of place where we could rehabilitate people; help them conquer drug addictions; get them to … where they were not likely to reoffend,” Brown said, “give them some seeds to help them grow into the kind of people that could be successful in the community, and not be in that revolving criminal justice door.”

When Brown and his commission presented their North Branch Jail proposal to the Board of Supervisors at the time, feedback from the dais amounted to, “‘Thank you very much, but we’re

broke, we have no money,’” Brown recalled.

“It was the start of the recession,” he added.

“Everybody was struggling financially. … We were crippled in terms of being able to move forward.”

About a decade after those discussions, the county got an $80 million grant from the state that supported the North Branch Jail’s development, which cost almost $120 million, Brown said.

“It was a very happy day, believe me,” said Brown, who described the jail’s construction journey as fraught with obstacles.

Around this time, the county was eligible for an additional $40 million state grant that could

have funded more than 200 additional beds— and other amenities, including a dog kennel for inmates to take part in a vocational dog grooming program—at the North Branch Jail.

But the Board of Supervisors at the time decided not to pursue it because the addition would have cost the county an extra $2 million a year to maintain, according to Brown.

“That has now come back to haunt us,” Brown said. “The irony is … just to do the expansion of North Branch Jail is going to cost us more than what we built the entire jail for, … in the area of $170 million, … which could have been done for

RAISING THE BARS: In 2014, the Sun interviewed Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown about his campaign for what would ultimately be his third term in office. At the time, he told the Sun that the North Branch Jail’s design phase was recently completed.

VISITING: Construction of the North Branch Jail in the Santa Maria Valley wrapped up in 2022.

‘Active repose’

For 26 years, the Sun has pursued thoughtful coverage, welcoming and including all voices

HAZING TERRITORY: High school freshmen told the Sun that incidents of hazing, such as peeing in lockers, happens regularly. The anecdote was included as part of a June 19, 2000, story about an alleged Righetti High School track team hazing incident that had schools throughout Santa Maria questioning their hazing policies.

BY CAMILLIA LANHAM

Since 2000, the Santa Maria Valley’s population has grown by more than 30,000 people. It’s gained school campuses, a county jail, and more box stores and chain restaurants than it probably needed to. Cannabis is now legal.

less than $40 million.”

Sometime in April, the current Board of Supervisors will consider modifying the North Branch Jail to add either 350 more beds (for about $167 million) or 250 beds. County staff will present a cost estimate for that reduced route during the upcoming discussion.

Brown described going lower than the initial 350-bed pitch as “making a very unwise and dollar-foolish decision, … because you’re still going to need these beds in the future, and again, you’re going to be stuck with having to pay double or triple the price of what you can get it done now for.”

A star is sworn in

The Sun once described Alice Patino’s 1999 appointment to the Santa Maria City Council as the end of a 70-year drought.

She was the first woman to serve on the council in seven decades. She was also the first woman in the city’s history to become its mayor in 2012.

Today, all three of Mayor Patino’s peers on the dais are women, following Carlos Escobedo’s sudden resignation from the City Council in early March.

When asked who she hopes to see apply for the appointment to the vacant 1st District seat, Patino said she’s sure her answer is informed by her years serving the city.

“I think it’s great to have a variety of people on the council in different backgrounds because we all come from different life experiences,” Patino told the Sun. “I have found that my decisions, maybe 10 years ago, 20 years ago, may be different than ones I would decide today. … I think it’s good to have different life experiences [on the council].”

When the Sun interviewed Patino 25 years ago about her early City Council impressions—a cover story that she’s kept a framed copy of—she encouraged young people, especially, to run for a

Years Celebrating

homicides. Agricultural labor, housing inequality, homelessness, struggles in education, new politicians, new developments, new businesses—the Sun has covered it all.

Within a few months of our first issue on March 31, 2000, our reporters had written about a downtown Santa Maria in need of change, hazing in local high schools, teen pregnancies, an overcrowded Marian Regional Medical Center, a groundwater rights lawsuit, rural crime, and a lack of music venues in the city.

Most of the stories have come back to our pages again and again. And they will likely return in the future, perhaps with an unfamiliar shape, different faces, new voices, and more creative solutions.

WARS: In the Sun’s June 2, 2000, issue, we wrote about a bitter battle between the city of Santa Maria and the Santa Maria Valley Water Conservation District over rights to the valley’s groundwater basin that involved more than 700 litigants. “If the farmers prevail, the pumping of groundwater during times of need could be curtailed,” then City Manager Tim Ness said. “We may not have enough water to supply domestic needs and may have to ration water or find

supplemental source.”

Politics is über-polarized. Ideology, more entrenched. Social media has changed the way we interact with one another. The COVID-19 pandemic marked us in immeasurable ways. We’ve had countless wildfires, several droughts, a handful of floods, and years marked by way too many

Recording that history is one of our jobs. It’s part of the vision that we’ve laid out for this publication, which is focused on community journalism and serving the residents of northern Santa Barbara County.

In the last 26 years, the way the Sun is made may have changed, but our mission has remained constant. We’ve morphed from

seat on the council.

“Younger men and women need to get involved in the politics of Santa Maria because it’s their future that’s at stake,” she said in the Jan. 19, 2001, article. “Their kids are going to be growing up in this community, and they know what they want. It’s not fair for me to say this is the way your kids’ lives should be.”

Another topic Patino touched upon with the Sun 25 years ago was Santa Maria’s need

to expand its number of school campuses to accommodate a growing population.

mainly worrying about a print product that comes out once a week to producing newsletters, a website, social media accounts, and a print product. Perhaps more evolution is on the horizon, but the vision of our late founder, Steve Moss, still drives the reporting process, how we

She talked about anticipating an upcoming council hearing to discuss where in Santa Maria’s city limits would be best to build a new high school—what ultimately would become Pioneer Valley High School, completed in 2004.

Today, similar issues remain top of mind for Patino, she said. Later this year, the council will review city staff’s draft for Santa Maria’s next

general plan update, as well as proposals tied to potential annexation east of the city.

“I think we need to start planning for two new high schools, … and that takes a lot of acreage,” Patino said. “We have to start planning for 30,000 people moving to the area.” m

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

TAKING THE OATH: The first woman to hold the title of Santa Maria mayor, Alice Patino, has held onto the role since she was first sworn into office back in 2012.

FILE PHOTO BY STEVE E. MILLER

DECADES ON THE DAIS: Pictured here when she became mayor in 2012, Alice Patino first joined the Santa Maria City Council in 1999.

FILE PHOTO BY STEVE E. MILLER

VOICES continued page 10

WATER

another

FILE PHOTO BY JEFF GREENE

* *

Jack and Winifred Malone

Clarence, Julia, and Winifred Magner

The Magners at our original Funeral Home on Lincoln Street

Joe and Ruth Ann Maloney

Joe and Linda Maloney

Ben Pirkl and Geri Coats

manage the opinion section, and the way we tell the community’s stories.

He wrote to readers in that first issue about what he envisioned for New Times’ sister paper.

“The Sun and New Times are separate newspapers owned by the same people. But they have a similar purpose: to help readers better understand their respective communities so they can face the challenges ahead with confidence and resolve,” he wrote. “We want to create a portable town square that readers can hold in their hands each week, a place where all viewpoints are invited and welcomed.”

“As a weekly paper, we have the advantage of what I call ‘active repose,’ a quality unattainable by more fast-paced media,” Moss added. “We’re able to look back at the week that was and assist readers in understanding the impact of unfolding events, then bring a thoughtful perspective to the week ahead so readers can more readily partake of it.”

Thoughtful perspectives are sorely needed these days. As is welcoming and inviting all viewpoints.

The Sun has done its best not to be harried in its reporting process, not to get sucked into the digital hemisphere of breaking news pressure, flurried social media clickbait, and opinionated journalism. We aim to stay thoughtful in our coverage of the issues that drive northern Santa Barbara County and continue to reflect the breadth of voices in the community.

We’ve been accused of many things in the last handful years,

some of which I dare not repeat. I’ve personally been told to shove the paper up my you-knowwhat—aggressive, right? We’ve been threatened, praised, critiqued, lauded, and accused of being too liberal and too conservative. As long as the responses from our readers run the gamut, I know the Sun is doing its job.

Because we’re not here to please everyone or even to please anyone. We’re here to reflect the community that we serve, and sometimes that includes perspectives that don’t match with your own. And that’s OK. In fact, it’s necessary for the success of a democratic society to debate constructively, to mull over the length and width of an issue, and to hear a diversity of viewpoints before pushing

forward collectively, together, into the future.

In a world where ideology and angry posts seem to be driving us further apart, the Sun aims to bring the community together through something more constructive. That’s why we publish voices from all sides in our opinion section. That’s why we seek out community members to tell their stories. That’s why we allow ourselves some breathing room before launching into covering something important.

We are here to help you connect to your neighbors, to your culture, to this time we’re living in.

And that’s why you, dear readers, are so important. You

are the reason we have been able to weather the economic and political uncertainty of the last several years and why we continue to publish after 26 years. Thanks for being there for us. And I hope we’ve done and will continue to do the same for you. m

santamariasun.com.

Editor Camillia Lanham is still older than the Sun. Send anti-aging cream to clanham@

WE WANT TO KNOW: Students in Ann Kollath’s Human Sexuality Class at Allan Hancock College in 2000 said that sex education helps them make better decisions and choices about their life. The Sun spoke with Kollath and students in her class for a May 5, 2000, piece about Santa Maria’s high teen pregnancy rates.

FILE PHOTO

LOOKING FOR A STAGE: “Unless you’re a metal or electronic band, there’s no place to play,” Rick Hossli told the Sun for a July 7, 2000, story about music venues in Santa Maria. He said the lack of place to play spurred him to move to San Diego to start a band.

FILE PHOTO BY JEFF GREENE

Learning to thrive

Guadalupe’s Early Learning Center starts strong with ADA swings, a school garden, and more

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

In February, a U.S. senator ventured to Guadalupe to see firsthand how $1.9 million in federal funds helped bring the town “a much overdue community asset,” as the local superintendent described it.

Guadalupe Union School District Superintendent Emilio Handall escorted U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-California) during a tour of the Early Learning Center—the city’s new school dedicated to transitional kindergarten (TK) students.

The center’s ribbon cutting took place in January after roughly four years of conceptualization, raising the necessary funding, and construction, Handall told the Sun. Schiff toured the campus with him about a month after the school’s grand opening.

“Sen. Schiff and his wife, Eve, are very downto-earth,” Handall said in an email interview. “We toured the campus, met with staff, students, and even had a sit-down toward the end of their visit.

“My favorite part,” Handall said, “was telling the senator just how much of an impact this center will have on the students, families, and community of Guadalupe.”

The total cost of developing the new school was about $10 million, including $1.9 million that Schiff and fellow California U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla helped secure specifically to fund the facility’s outdoor playground.

“Their support is immeasurable and is an example of how government does help everyday Guadalupans,” Handall said.

The playground consists of four main areas, Handall said, and each was designed specifically to suit the needs of the Early Learning Center’s age

range—3-to-5-year-olds.

“The swing set has a few swings that have larger seats and safety straps that allow smaller [children] and/or students with disabilities to enjoy the equipment as well,” Handall said.

Another of the four play areas is an allweather hill with a rope for students to help pull themselves up, he explained. Both this structure and the swing set are great for developing gross motor skills, he added.

Handall described another play area as “an inclusive whirly,” which was designed with all abilities and skill levels in mind.

“That is essentially a merry-go-round that sits flush to the ground and allows for all students to get on the structure, even those with physical limitations,” Handall explained.

Another area in the school’s playground is where students will find the age-old, familyfriendly rocking animals, as well as “a very low balance beam” over a patch of grass, Handall said.

Serving up to around 200 students in eight different classrooms, the Early Learning Center is one of Guadalupe’s only child care options for parents of young children, Handall told the Sun in January, about a week before the school’s ribbon cutting.

Handall, who’s worked for the Guadalupe Union School District since 2018, described the city as a child care desert.

“With the amount of space, age-appropriate play structures, and classrooms, residents of Guadalupe should be excited to bring their children to our Early Learning Center,” he said via email. “Its construction has been a goal of mine, and it is surreal to have it built and available for our community.”

While federal and state grants covered the majority of the Early Learning Center’s $10 million construction budget, local entities stepped in to

benefit the new school in other ways.

Thanks to support from Santa Barbara’s Audacious Foundation, the Early Learning Center completed its outdoor school garden in early March.

“This garden will be used for TK gardening and science-related learning,” said Handall, whose personal favorite plant in the new garden is the pineapple guava tree.

“I used to have one in my backyard,” he said. “I love pineapple guavas.”

Highlights

• The Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness recently celebrated the opening of its new Behavioral Wellness Service Center on West Central Avenue in Lompoc.

The new facility brings several key Behavioral Wellness programs—including the Youth Opioid Response substance use disorder treatment team and Homeless Outreach team—under one roof, according to the department.

• Twenty local students from schools in the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District participated in Cal Poly’s Migrant Speech and Debate Tournament on March 13. Speech coaches at Righetti High School, Pioneer Valley High School, and Santa Maria High School spent many hours mentoring students to help strengthen their public speaking, organization, and critical thinking skills, according to the district. m

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

HELLO, MR. WOOD CHIPS: Guadalupe Union School District Superintendent Emilio Handall, left, recently gave U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-California), right, an in-depth tour of the Early Learning Center, Guadalupe’s new school facility dedicated to transitional kindergarten learning.

Who would best represent the county’s 5th District on the Board of Supervisors?

34% An advocate, like Ricardo Valencia.

22% A local city council member, like Maribel Aguilera.

22% A 5th District staff member, like Cory Bantilan.

22% I plan to write in someone else. 9 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

Northern Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly 801 S Broadway Suite 3 Santa Maria, CA 93454

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No more war

America and Israel are too comfortable with military intervention in the Middle East

BY GALE MCNEELEY

While polls revealed that 70 percent of Americans opposed war with Iran, why has our government, at the behest of Israel and without a vote by Congress, begun bombing Iran’s major cities? The truth is that this war has been planned for 19 years.

In March of 2007, Amy Goodman interviewed retired Gen. Wesley Clark, who pulled the curtain back on Pentagon plans for the Middle East.

On Sept. 20, just nine days after 9/11, Clark told Goodman that he was at the Pentagon visiting Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. While there, one of the generals encouraged Clark into his office. He closed the door, according to Clark, and said, “We made the decision we’re going to war with Iraq.” Clark said, “Why?” He said, “I don’t know. … I guess it’s like we don’t know what to do about terrorists, but we’ve got a good military, and we can take down governments.”

Clark told Goodman that he went back to see the same general a few weeks later, “and by that time we were bombing in Afghanistan.” Clark said he asked if the U.S. was still planning to go to war with Iraq. “He said, ‘Oh it’s worse than that.’” The general then handed Clark a piece of paper that came from the secretary of defense’s office, Clark told Goodman. The general then said, “This is a memo that describes how we’re going to take out seven countries in five years, starting with Iraq, and then Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and, finishing off, Iran,” according to Clark.

And who promoted and supported regime change in every one of these countries? Bibi Netanyahu.

In Syria, Israel worked with the CIA to destabilize the Assad regime. Together they finally toppled it in December 2024. Then Israel moved its troops beyond the illegally occupied Golan Heights in Syria, which the Israelis claim is part of the greater Israel they are working so hard to create. Now, Syria is reportedly moving its own forces back into the region.

Jordan has long been a puppet of Israel and America. This can be seen clearly by the fact that Jordan intercepted Iranian missiles and drones, acting as a defender of Israel during our last war with Iran.

It is Israel that has convinced U.S. administrations from George H.W. Bush to Donald Trump to take military actions against these seven nations.

Libya and Israel were enemies for decades under Gaddafi. Israel pretended to be negotiating with Gaddafi before his fall, but it was actively supporting the U.S. in its desire to bring him down. Chaos in Libya has been the result.

Somalia had a long history of interventions by the U.S. related to the fear that Somalia would join Ethiopia in becoming a Marxist state. The U.S. supported regime change many times to gain a foothold in the country. Israel’s role is more opaque here, because it has wanted to become partners with its current leaders. Now, Israel hopes Somalia will house many of Gaza’s Palestinian refugees.

Israel has a strategic interest in normalizing relations with Sudan, as the Sudanese Red Sea coast is essential from a security and economic perspective. Sudan represents the heart of Africa, with deep extensions into the African continent thanks to its location, large geographical area, and expansive borders. The United States is working to transition Sudan from a military to a civilian government.

Then there is Iran, which Israel and the United States are attacking preemptively, for the second time. Iran was No. 7 on the Pentagon list and the country Israel was most committed to seeing fall.

Why do America and Israel feel secure in beginning this new illegal war? Because, for them, their previous war crimes, including the genocide in Palestine, have had no consequences. It’s time for Americans, and the rest of the world, to say no to endless wars that destabilize the world and put us all in harm’s way. We must join together to say, “No more war.” m

Gale McNeeley writes to the Sun from Santa Maria. Respond with a letter for publication by emailing it to letters@santamariasun.com.

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Get educated about local community organizations

I just read the commentary posted by Roy Reed (“Know before you vote,” March 12), mostly about the 5th District supervisors election coming in June. However, what struck me most was his misinformed, or rather non-informed, view about local community organizations. Let me educate everyone.

Indivisible Santa Maria: “Our vision is a democracy that delivers for everyone. … We are committed to nonviolent action, multiracial democracy, and a government that is accountable to the people it serves.”

CAUSE (Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy): “A base-building organization committed to social, economic, and environmental justice for working-class and immigrant communities in California’s Central Coast. We build grassroots power through community organizing, leadership development, coalition building, and civic engagement.”

The Fund for Santa Barbara: Its mission is “advancing progressive change by strengthening movements for economic, environmental, political, racial, and social justice.”

MICOP (Mixteco Indigena Community Organizing Project): Its mission is to “support, organize, and empower the Indigenous migrant communities in California’s Central Coast.”

To understand the mission is the heart of these organizations—no statement about dividing our community is pledged. Instead, they are the most inclusive, open, democraticminded, and law-abiding organizations I know. They serve in our community made up of 70 percent minority population, which is 80 percent of the farmworkers in Santa Barbara County. They stand with the farmworker employees of this $2 billion industry in Santa Barbara County.

These organizations stand against injustices while also promoting family safety and support. Thank goodness for them!

Lastly, many of us support Ricardo Valencia for 5th District supervisor. While you make light of his “mission,” it is what drives his work. Lack of a clear mission is what got us where we are now.

Shirlee Heitman Orcutt

Has Trump no shame?

I recently read that Trump is suing California over its clean air rules for cars and trucks. I’m not exactly sure what his logic is and don’t really care. I do know that this man is the antithesis of President Theodore Roosevelt who put protections on place for national monuments like Grand Staircase-Escalante and Bears Ears National Monument among others well over 100 years ago. I also know that given his way, Trump would take tribal lands away from Indigenous people to whom it was “given” more than 150 years ago. Has he no shame?

When I was a child growing up in the ’60s, I had a lot of family living in the LA area. When we often went to visit them, the smog was so bad, we could not inhale the air safely or without pain. Guess what, it’s better now, and it is because there are still some people in charge who care about clean land, air, and water.

Greg A. Klein Santa Maria

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Hot topic Opinion

Testy exchanges between Solvang City Council members over something their mayor built is becoming more common than it should be.

Mayor David Brown’s treasure-hunt style Solvang Passport cellphone app was the topic du jour at yet another City Council meeting and promises to come up again in the future. Apparently, the city doesn’t have other, more pressing matters to attend to.

After Brown recused himself from the discussion, Councilmembers Elizabeth Orona and Claudia Orona (not related) went at it. Claudia’s business, the Solvang Trolley Ice Cream Parlor, is part of the Passport app—as in, Solvang Trolley is paying Brown a monthly fee to be included as part of the app.

And Elizabeth, for some reason that I don’t quite understand, has a giant, angry bee in her bonnet about the whole thing. She asked staff whether Claudia should also recuse herself from the discussion due to potential bias. Wait, what?

That’s a little presumptive and aggressive.

participating businesses.

Councilmember Louise Smith wondered whether the council could ask Brown to “slow down” or pause his work on the app until the council got more clarity on the issue. Elizabeth wanted to amend the city’s internal ethics policies about self-reporting conflicts of interest. It sounds a little like these two want to police the activities that other elected officials get up to off the dais. So, if you start a new business without the council’s permission, you get into trouble?

The city attorney warned against telling Brown “to stop doing his business.” Duh. It’s a free country. It’s already up to elected officials to self-report their potential conflicts, and Brown did ask the city attorney last year about potential future conflict of interest issues that could be tied to the app.

Claudia pointed out that the Fair Political Practices Commission [FPPC] literally exists to do exactly what Elizabeth is trying to get the city to do.

“Just like any other city official,” a staff report said, “the mayor would face personal liability for any future failure to comply with applicable conflict of interest rules.”

“OK, first of all, it is up to each individual council member to decide whether they have a potential bias or conflict of interest,” Claudia responded. “Each individual council member is the one that’s going to take the heat, the fines, the public scorn.”

“If we think that a public official is not doing something right, anybody can file a complaint,” she said. “That’s what the FPPC does. We already have the tools to deal with this sort of thing.”

“Personally, I think [the app] doesn’t represent any financial gain to me whatsoever,” she continued. “If anything, it’s cost me an ice cream cone that I have to give out for free.”

As part of the Passport app, users can get a free cone by scanning a QR code at the Solvang Trolley Ice Cream Parlor—and goodies elsewhere, too, with the help of a QR scan at the respective

Then, she went further, telling Elizabeth to file a complaint against the mayor if she was so concerned about his activities.

“They’ll do the investigation. They’ll do the work for you,” Claudia said.

That seemed to quiet Elizabeth down. She didn’t say much after that. m

The Canary is looking for freebies. Send apps to canary@santamariasun.com.

DECEASED MARCH 13, 2026

In Loving Memory of Arthur Keith Hamilton

Arthur Keith Hamilton passed peacefully on March 13, 2026.  He is survived by his partner of 31 years, Sharie Rouse’, sons Michael and Robert Hamilton, step-daughters Tawnia Perryman and Stefanie Francis. He spent four decades as a local jewelry merchant, most notably as the proprietor of Hamilton Estate Jewelry on Garden Street.  He was a Korean War Army Veteran and will be celebrated at SLO American Legion Post 66 on April 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM.  He was a thoughtful man who loved his grandchildren Shaun, Eden, Bittany, Nika and Shawni and enjoyed helping people, writing poetry, and making a sale. He had lifetime memberships with the NRA,

BMW Owners of America, National Association of Jewelry Appraisals, American Legion, Unity Church and Hamilton Clan Society.  His passions included selling jewelry, motorcycle riding, guns, and a good sandwich.   He was a kind man who never strayed far from his Oklahoma roots on Route 66.  He will be missed.

Hot Stuff

CAMPUS COWBOYS

College rodeo athletes coming from all over the West Coast region will put on a show during the Jim Glines Memorial College Rodeo on Saturday, March 28, at 5 p.m. and Sunday, March 29, at 11 a.m. at the Elks Event Center in Santa Maria. General admission ranges from $14.70 to $25.41. Visit my805tix.com for tickets and additional information.

—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.

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/.

FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17

Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. 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 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. 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 “BESTIES” ARTIST DEBBI GREEN AT GALLERY LOS OLIVOS APRIL 1- 30 Debbi Green has painted local farm animals, along with not-so-wild animals and birds in her

solo exhibit at Gallery Los Olivos. MondaysSundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through April. (805) 688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

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.

New Times and the Sun now share their community listings for a complete Central Coast calendar running from SLO County through northern Santa Barbara County. Submit events online by logging in with your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account at newtimesslo.com. You may also email calendar@newtimesslo.com. Deadline is one week before the issue date on Thursdays. Submissions are subject to editing and approval. Contact Calendar Editor Angelena Stevens directly at astevens@newtimesslo.com.

See 48 paintings juried from 100 entries on view at the museum. Through Sept. 16 calnatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

THE CHAIR AUCTION

The LVAA presents The Chair Auction, a creative exhibition and month-long silent auction where artists transform everyday chairs into unique works of art. April 2-26, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 737-1129. lompocart.org/ events. Lompoc Valley Art Association (Cypress Gallery), 119 E. Cypress, Lompoc. STORY PAINTINGS WARMING HEARTS: AN INTERACTIVE READING Michael Corob will lead an interactive reading from Story Paintings Warming Hearts, sharing joyful paintings, one-page stories, audience questions, and a creative drawing activity. April 4 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 737-1129. lompocart.org/events. Lompoc Valley Art Association (Cypress Gallery), 119 E. Cypress, Lompoc.

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., March 29 2-4 p.m., April 2 , 7-9 p.m., April 3 7-9 p.m. and April 4 , 7-9 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.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

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.

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART

CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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.

BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. (805) 7474200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BUILD A JUNKBOT WORKSHOP WITH JUNKGIRLS Build a one-of-a-kind JunkBot using vintage and found objects like gears, keys, and metal bits. Assemble, customize and name your robot. March 28 $110. (805) 439-0123. junkgirls.com. JunkGirls, 870 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo.

CONJURING WONDER—MAGIC: UPCLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH DENNIS KYRIAKOS AT HOTEL SLO Hotel San Luis Obispo welcomes Conjuring Wonder, Magic: Up-Close and Personal, an immersive evening of illusion featuring master magician Dennis Kyriakos. March 28, 6-9 p.m. $115. conjuringwonder.com. Hotel San Luis Obispo, 877 Palm St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 235-0700. FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

FREE DOCENT TOURS Gain a deeper understanding of the artwork on view with SLOMA’s new docent tours. Every Saturday, join trained guides for interactive and engaging tours of SLOMA’s current exhibitions. Saturdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/visit/tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

IMPROV EXTRAVAGANZA AT THE BUNKER Get ready for a whirlwind of wit, chaos, and unscripted brilliance at Improv Extravaganza — sets of small teams and big laughs. March 26 6-8 p.m. $10 -$15. (805) 858-8255. centralcoastcomedytheater.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MY805TIX

JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. (702) 335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.

KIDS CLAY: CHECKMATE CLASS Kids

sculpt clay chess pieces in a three-session pottery series: two building classes, one glazing. Bring a chessboard. Includes kiln firing gap week! Mondays, 4-5:30 p.m. through March 30 $100. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.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.

MAGICANS CLUB This is a non-profit club where magicians from the local areas meet, exchange, share magic ideas, and showoff. Last Monday of every month, 6-9 p.m. Free. (805) 720-1164. SLO Elks Club, 222 Elks Lane, San Luis Obispo.

PAINT A PREMADE POTTERY PIECE!

Drop into the studio to pick out and paint a premade piece! There is fun for all ages, and prices are based upon size. Mondays, Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2-7:30 p.m. $30$75. app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule. php?owner=22676824&appointmentTy pe=35974477. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL

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

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

SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN

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

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors. To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo. com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO

SHOW On display now through mid-April. slogallery.com. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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., Sundays, 2-4 p.m. and Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. through April 9 $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. ThursdaysSaturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. (559) 7999632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

FOREVER STOKED PAINT

STORY PAINTINGS

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

Michael Corob will lead a free interactive book reading from his new book, Story Paintings Warming Hearts, at Cypress Gallery in Lompoc on Saturday, April 4, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The family-friendly event will include onepage stories, a Q-and-A, and a creative drawing activity. Visit lompocart.org for more information.

—A.S.

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) 7721068. 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 NANCY JENSEN’S WATERCOLORS AND LAURA MURPHY’S ACRYLICS See watercolors capturing Central Coast harvests, beaches, wildflowers, and rolling hills paired with expressive abstract acrylics where light and form breathes and moves. April 1 , 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 OCEAN’S EDGE: A PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP

EXHIBITION Explore beautiful coastal photography featuring dramatic waterscapes, golden sunsets, and bright landscapes from across California’s Central Coast and the Pacific Ocean. April 1 -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.

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

VIEW ARTISTIC STATIONS OF THE CROSS AT ST. BENEDICT’S Chloe White’s relief sculptures convey the physical and emotional experiences of Christ and his loved ones to connect us more deeply with our faith. Tuesdays, 2-5 p.m. through March 31 Free. (805) 528-0654. stbenslososos.org/. St. Benedict’s Church, 2220 Snowy Egret Ln., Los Osos.

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. ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750. CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 6 p.m. Free. (805) 934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria. FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt. org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt. FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings.

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 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!

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

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

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!

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 18

Hot Stuff

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•

(805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

JIM GLINES MEMORIAL COLLEGE

RODEO The Jim Glines Intercollegiate Rodeo at the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo Grounds will bring college rodeo athletes from all over the West Coast region to put on a show for Santa Maria and surrounding communities. March 28-29 $14.70-$25.41. my805tix.com. Elks Event Center, 4040 Highway 101, Santa Maria.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

FAMILY DAY AT MELVILLE WINERY Enjoy a complimentary day of fun for the whole family! Grab a glass or bottle and enjoy the sunshine. March 29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 735-7030. exploretock.com. Melville Estate Winery, 5185 E. Hwy 246, Lompoc. LOMPOC ART WALK Lompoc transforms into a celebration showcase of local artists during this monthly event, featureing live music, art, exciting exhibitions, performances, and a variety of unique vendors. First Thursday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Old Town Lompoc, H and I St., Lompoc. THE VILLAGE TREASURE CHEST This event is for the whole family. There will be vendors selling their wears, music, facepainting, and some kind of food booth. Come out and spend part of your Saturday supporting local vendors. First Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Vandenberg Village Community Services District Office, 3745 Constellation Road, Lompoc, (805) 291-6370.

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. (805) 835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.

BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. (970) 710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.

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. EGG-STRAVAGANZA This family friendly event includes egg hunts, bounce houses, cames, crafts, and more! April 4 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 773-7063. Dinosaur Caves Park, 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach.

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.

COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN

MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY

Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks including pathways maintenance, litter patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, irrigation system expansion/repairs, pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, and tools related to the above activities.

First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 710-3073. Nipomo Native Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, 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,

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. NO KINGS III RALLY GROVER BEACH Join the peaceful No Kings sidewalk rally. Bring your creative signs and a voice to chant. March 28 , 10 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 260-4137. mobilize.us. No Kings Rally Grover Beach, Corner of Grande Ave and Oak Park Blvd, Grover Beach.

& LIFESTYLE continued page 21

Jim Glines Memorial College Rodeo

SATURDAY, MARCH

Ceremony Skate Shop Anniversary Show

SATURDAY, MARCH 28

FRIDAY, APRIL 3

Santa Maria

Ceremony Skate Shop, SLO The Motet w/ Michael Wilbur Of Moon Hooch

SUNDAY, MARCH 29 The Rock, SLO Science After Dark

TUESDAY, MARCH 31 Central Coast

Avila Beach

Nemo

Sycamore Mineral Springs, SLO

Aquarium,

Cisco Adler Live at Libertine FRIDAY, APRIL 3 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

Brass Mash First Friday: Prom-ish III

Oddfellows Hall, SLO

OCEANFRONT EASTER BRUNCH BUFFET

Gather with family and friends, unwind by the sea, and celebrate the season in true Cliffs style. Get details about the buffet and tickets at the link. April 5 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $55.40-$130.39. my805tix.com. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach, (805) 773-5000.

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.

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.

SILENT AUCTION TO BENEFIT AN ORPHANGE All proceeds from this threeday silent auction support an orphanage in Kenya--buying school uniforms, paying tuitions, hiring tutors and purchasing computers. March 27 10 a.m.-8 p.m., March 28 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and March 29 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. Natural Toolbox, Suite 127, Pismo Beach Premium Outlets, Pismo Beach.

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS

Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. (805) 4816399. 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, 6:307:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody.com. Live Webinar, online, SLO County.

BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays,

5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, 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.

CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:3011:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo.

CEREMONY SKATE SHOP ANNIVERSARY SHOW March 28 , 3 p.m. $12.56. my805tix.com. Ceremony Skate Shop, 1235 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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.

LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A pro-recovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. First Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

LUNCHTIME IN THE GARDEN UC

Master Gardeners of SLO County extend an invitation to the public to visit our demonstration garden. See what’s in bloom and learn something new. First Wednesday of every month, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Sept. 2. Free. (805) 781-5939. ucanr.edu. Garden of the Seven Sisters Demonstration Garden, 2156 Sierra Way, San Luis Obispo.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION

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

NO KINGS III RALLY AND SIDEWALK

MARCH Join for the No Kings III rally and sidewalk march with speakers, music, booths, and fun for the whole family.

March 28 , 10 a.m.-noon Free. San Luis Obispo County Courthouse, 1050 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (866) 249-9475, slocourts.net.

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. GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK

Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free with $5 Garden Entry. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., 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.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 1118. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB

MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the 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,

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which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email for location and to reserve a spot. Tuesdays, 1011 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA GROUP

(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.

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

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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

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/. 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 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/.

EASTER EATS

Enjoy a festive spread during an oceanfront Easter brunch buffet on Sunday, April 5, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Cliffs Hotel and Spa in Pismo Beach. The event features prime rib and farm-to-table salads, along with handcrafted cocktails, live music, and visits from the Easter Bunny. Tickets are $120 a person. Head to my805tix.com for a detailed itinerary.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO

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

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE INN Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/. FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/ club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

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

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

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. (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

TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine,

and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. (805) 295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET

Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.

PIÑATAS ON THE PATIO What is more festive than a piñata? Join for some brunch drinks and a couple of good hits to a piñata (or two). Good times and goofy prices promised. Turns will be determined on a first come, first served basis. First Sunday of every month Free. SLO Public Market, South Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo.

VERTICAL WINE TASTING: ISLAY HILL

ESTATE SYRAH Enjoy a guided, multi-sensory exploration of four standout vintages of cool climate Estate Syrahs, poured by the owner! March 28 , 2-4 p.m. $45. (805) 706-8034. exploretock.com. La Lomita Ranch, 1985 La Lomita Way, San Luis Obispo.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC AT EL VINERO

Celebrate the first Friday in April with live music from Savannah Creech! Enjoy wine tasting, by the glass or bottle. April 3 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 354-0260. elvinero.com. El Viñero, 130 N. Broadway Suite A, Orcutt.

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

LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

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

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

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing (805) 9250464. 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.

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

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.

YOSEMITE JAZZ BAND JAZZ DANCE CONCERT PRESENTED BY BASIN STREET REGULARS The Yosemite Jazz Band will be playing “Hot Swingin’ Jazz” at the Basin Street Regulars’ Sunday afternoon concert. March 29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $10-$15. my805tix.com. Pismo Beach Veteran’s Memorial Building, 780 Bello Street, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE A rockin’ blues dance party at Niffy’s Merrimaker every first, third, and fifth Wednesdays. The Blues Asylum house band welcomes local, visiting, and newcomers to the blues groove. Spirits, beer, and wine, with outside food welcome. 7-10 p.m. Free. (805) 235-5223. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos. SEA SHANTIES AT THE DOCKSIDE The Morro Bay Shanty Project will perform historical (and hysterical) songs of the sea. Enjoy lunch and sing along. Tips benefit the Morro Bay Maritime Museum. March 27 11 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Dockside Restaurant, 1245 Embarcadero

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

ARTS BRIEFS

CalNAM’s newest nature-focused exhibit

The next time you’re strolling the streets of Solvang, take a pause to enjoy a gallery of art that celebrates the local environment. A juried exhibit called When the Earth Whispers Back: Nature’s Hope is up at California Nature Art Museum (CalNAM) through Sept. 6.

“This exhibition will center on plant and animal species that are endangered, or threatened, or even extinct, and areas of land set aside for the conservation and preservation of these species,” according to the gallery’s website. “Artists are presenting this show with the purpose of bringing attention to the beauty and fragility of their subjects, as well as promoting better protection and stewardship of our ecosystems.”

With more than 100 submissions, the show features almost 50 pieces from artists who are a part of Women Painters West. The organization is a nonprofit membership corporation that’s been around since 1921, mainly operating out of Southern California. Currently there are around 200 members.

The first through third place winners of the juried exhibit are Nancy Rossi, Lynette K. Henderson, and Nancy Flint, respectively. All artists will donate 40 percent of their sales during the exhibit to CalNAM.

Visit the museum at 1511-B Mission Drive in Solvang. It’s open on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more details visit calnatureartmuseum.org.

An ABBA tribute show for the whole family

Catch ABRA Cadabra’s energetic, family-friendly concert at the Solvang Festival Theatre on April 7 at 7:30 p.m. Audience members will hear classic hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia” from the ABBA tribute band at the intimate, outdoor amphitheater.

“We don’t try to pretend we’re ABBA,” Jeanette O’Keefe, the band’s lead vocalist and co-founder, said in press materials. “We celebrate this music in our own unique way. We’re there to bring joy, connect people, and engage with our audience to give them the best experience.”

Prepare for a night full of glittering costumes, live music and dancing, and speedy wardrobe changes. ABRA Cadabra has been keeping ABBA’s magic alive for the past 25 years with worldwide performances.

Learn more about the band on its website, iloveabba. com, or on Instagram @atributetoabba. Find ABRA Cadabra’s promotional video on YouTube for a taste of the live show. Tickets start at $74 and are on sale at solvangtheaterfest. org, as well as information about the rest of Solvang Festival Theatre’s spring and summer lineup. The venue is located at 420 Second St. in Solvang. m

The right pen

A few words from the Sun’s political cartoonist

BY MADISON WHITE

Ross Mayfield claims that his almost 24-year tenure with the Sun fell into his lap, but really, it’s because a reporter saw his sketch of a former county supervisor shooting herself in the foot.

Literally.

The first time Mayfield appeared in the paper was on July 4, 2002, as the subject of a story. Arts Editor Abraham Hyatt saw Mayfield’s drawing of former Supervisor Gail Marshall, sparking a story on the quiet, largely unknown cartoonist. Mayfield was working with his father at the family blueprint shop across from the Santa Maria Public Airport, where the back-office walls were filled with sketches.

which, like the blueprint shop, was also located by the airport at the time. One day, then Editor Ryan Miller presented the illustrator with a job proposition.

“I never thought that I would do this,” Mayfield told the Sun one afternoon in March. “In fact, when he asked, I thought, ‘I don’t know how to do this.’ I didn’t feel very prolific at it.”

Years Celebrating *

Hyatt’s article described the Santa Maria resident’s love for sketching aircraft (one appeared alongside the story), making Christmas cards featuring his dog Dave, and battling for rights over his infamous drawing of the California Highway Patrol. His humble origins remain true, but many more people know his name today than they did back then.

*

No matter how modest he is, it’s hard to deny that Mayfield has a knack for making observations about society and using pen and paper to comment on it.

Though these days, there’s a little less pen and paper involved with the advent of Photoshop. Gone are the days when Mayfield hand delivered a hard copy cartoon to the office. Today he emails a digital file.

His first thought accepting the gig was, “How do you think of ideas?” It’s still a pain point, but most of the time they rush in at random moments.

‘It seems like all the really good cartoon ideas come from nowhere. All of a sudden, boink! There’s an image in my head.’

—Ross Mayfield, political cartoonist

It’s synonymous with his political cartoon, Mayfield, that’s been published in the Sun every other week for nearly 24 years, amounting to hundreds and hundreds of cartoons.

Mayfield’s work sent waves through the Sun office in 2002,

“I guess the brain is churning in the background,” he said.

For example, in 2002, the idea for Supervisor Marshall shooting herself in the foot came to him while he was driving down the freeway. In a recent March issue, the idea for a smashed piggy bank was sparked by a phone call with his sister about high gas prices.

“It seems like all the really good cartoon ideas come from nowhere. All of a sudden, boink! There’s an image in my head, and I go, ‘Yeah.

Don’t miss Mayfield

Look for Ross Mayfield’s political cartoons in the Sun every other week. To check out more of his work, visit ifthishadbeenarealemergency.blogspot.com.

That would be really good.’”

When the weekends come around and he’s without an idea, it’s not a good sign. With a Monday or Tuesday deadline, he ideally has a solid grasp on the premise before Friday. Otherwise, the cartoonist will stay up until 2 or 3 a.m. for a couple days straight until he’s satisfied with his submission.

“Usually, it takes longer than I think it should,” Mayfield said.

He’s a longtime listener of The Andy Caldwell Show, which gives him ideas from time to time. Back when he was interacting with customers at the blueprint shop,

it was easier to generate cartoon ideas. People love to talk, and they especially love to complain about what’s going on in the world.

Though a political cartoonist, Mayfield said he doesn’t know if he’s all that interested in politics. What he likes to do is create scenes about people who make dumb decisions.

“I try to have funnier stuff than serious stuff,” Mayfield said. “It’s cartoon. Generally, cartoons are supposed to be fun.”

Mayfield’s been in the habit of doodling since he was young. His

COURTESY PHOTO BY GEORGE ROSE

A LIFELONG ILLUSTRATOR: Ross Mayfield has been drawing political cartoons for the Sun since 2002.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SOLVANG THEATERFEST

UNCLE JOE WANTS YOU: Ross Mayfield feels this 2022 Joe Biden depiction is one of his best drawings of a person’s likeness—he said it’s difficult to draw people well. COURTESY IMAGES

SOUND THE ALARM: Amid disputes between American Medical Response and the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, illustrator Ross Mayfield drew Medic Wars, published in an April 2023 issue of the Sun

family was full of creatives, too. The artist made it official with an associate degree in art. After taking classes, he believes he can teach anyone how to draw if they’re willing to overcome beginners’ frustrations.

“My mom told me I used to get in trouble because on homework the teacher would come back and say, ‘Don’t draw airplanes,’” he remembered.

People are the most difficult subjects for Mayfield. Sometimes he spends days trying to get the likeness of a person down but still isn’t happy with it.

One of his best likeness drawings, in his mind, was of Joe Biden as Uncle Sam in the era of student loan forgiveness.

“He’s saying, I want you to pay the college tuition for people that you don’t even know,” Mayfield said, pulling the hard copy out from his briefcase. “That

is one of my favorites for the process of drawing a cartoon that looks like who it’s supposed to.”

A lot of his work centers on the local political arena, commenting on the county’s biggest names. The illustrator knows that many residents see his work even if they wouldn’t recognize him out and about in town, which he “somewhat” likes. A little recognition wouldn’t kill him, though.

Once he was paying a tax at the county government building and heard

that then Supervisor Gregg Hart had a large-scale copy of a Mayfield cartoon in his office. Hart was out at the time, but Supervisor Steve Lavagnino greeted Mayfield with enthusiasm, praising the commentary.

“Those are surprising moments to me that I don’t think about, but all these people in county government, … they see these things that I’m drawing about them,” Mayfield said.

People across the whole country have seen Mayfield. The cartoons have

earned top awards from the National Newspaper Association starting in 2008 when Mayfield won first and second place for Best Original Editorial Cartoon in the non-daily division. He may not scream it from the rooftops, but Mayfield is proud of himself. He concluded that he keeps political cartooning “for the satisfaction of being able to do it.” m

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

OVERCROWDED: In 2005, Ross Mayfield had something to say about the state of the Santa Barbara County Jail, long before the northern branch was built.

GASSED UP: Oil and gas are consistent hot-topic issues in Santa Barbara County, giving Ross Mayfield lots of material to work with.

Go long!

Co-directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, 21 Jump Street, The Lego Movie) bring Drew Goddard’s (The Martian) adaptation of novelist Andy Weir’s 2021 novel to the screen. Ryan Gosling stars as science teacher Ryland Grace, who awakens alone on a spaceship hurtling through space. With no memory of how he got there, we learn in flashbacks what his mission is and its importance to humanity. (156 min.)

Glen: Dear Project Hail Mary filmmakers, I enjoyed your movie very much, but I would have enjoyed it more had you trimmed the 30 or so minutes of fat off it. Too much of a good thing becomes less good. The Law of Diminishing Returns is real. That said, Gosling is reliably charming as Dr. Rylan Grace, a brilliant and maverick molecular biologist who was drummed out of the upper echelons of science because of his out-of-the-box thinking on the elements needed to form life. As his retrograde amnesia begins to wane, we discover through his memories when he was recruited for this mission to save the sun that he was reduced to a middle school teacher. His underdog status and road-less-traveled thinking is likeable, but we soon discover all he wants to do now is keep his head down and not make waves, so how the heck did this semi-

NUREMBERG

What’s it rated? PG-13

When? 2025

Where’s it showing? Netflix

coward end up an astronaut? That’s what the story slowly … and I mean slowly … explains.

Anna: Not only is Grace totally disoriented upon waking, he’s also totally alone. He discovers the bodies of his two crewmates and pieces together the stories of who they were in life back on Earth through their belongings. He’s in an understandable spiral when he comes upon another ship, not one built by NASA. While his first instinct is to flee from the alien vessel, his efforts are fruitless and soon it becomes a game of communication. Messages arrive with metal figures, and he starts to build a narrative of who his alien counterpart is.

When the two finally meet, he finds a fivelegged, rock-like creature that he names Rocky. The two learn to communicate, and soon the two have become a bonded team set to bring both of their home planets hope for a future.

Ultimately, it is a story of friendship.

PROJECT HAIL MARY

What’s it rated? PG-13

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards RPX Santa Maria,

Glen: Unlike, say, the seriousness of Contact (1997) or Arrival (2016), Project Hail Mary takes a more tongue-in-cheek approach to alien contact—more E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) or Paul (2011). Rocky and Grace are both likeable and develop a rapport. They have different strengths, so they need each other to succeed. On their own, each would no doubt fail, but together, they’re strong. And like the characters of E.T. and Paul or even BB-8 or baby Groot, Rocky’s a cute little charmer who sees in Grace something Grace himself thought he long ago lost—his bravery and selflessness. Hail Mary is a crowd pleaser without a doubt,

and my quibble about it being overlong isn’t going to hinder anyone from seeing it. Last Friday’s matinee was packed. For full effect, you definitely want to see this one in a theater.

Anna: It’s definitely meant for that venue, even if it means you’re going to have to park yourself, reclining in wide comfort, for the better part of an afternoon. Gosling knows how to play charming and funny, and his Grace becomes a more complicated character the more we get to know him through flashbacks. One of

my favorite parts of the film is Sandra Hüller’s portrayal of Eva Stratt, the project manager and Grace’s recruiter. She’s very serious and very German. Grace is very much alone, and so is Rocky, and then the two aren’t so alone anymore because they have each other. It’s pretty darn sweet. m

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

This story is based on the 2013 book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist by Jack El-Hai, which chronicled the relationship between U.S. Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek) and Nazi Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe) during the Nuremberg trials. The idea was that Kelley was supposed to discover what was different about the Germans’ personalities or psyches that would lead them to commit such horrible atrocities. The film also explores U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Robert Jackson (Michael Shannon), who’s tasked with creating an international tribunal—something that had never been done before—to hold the 22 Nazi defendants to account for their crimes against humanity. I knew the basics of the Nuremberg trials, but I certainly learned a lot more details of how they happened and the legalities around them.

This was a pretty low-budget film, but the cast and acting are first-rate. In addition to Crowe, Malek, and Shannon, Richard E. Grant stars as British barrister Sir David Maxwell-Fyfe, who was instrumental in forcing Göring’s confession. Leo Woodall is Sgt. Howie Triest, who acts as

the story’s moral center. Spoiler alert! What was different about the Nazis’ psyches? Nothing. Anyone is capable of total moral collapse. (148 min.)

—Glen

JURY DUTY PRESENTS: COMPANY RETREAT

What’s it rated? TV-14

When? 2026

Where’s it showing? Prime

If you watched or heard about Jury Duty, you already know the premise—an everyday man and all-around nice guy is surrounded by a cast of increasingly strange people in a scenario where they are, for all intents and purposes, trapped. Nice Guy has no idea he’s surrounded by actors.

This time around, designated Nice Guy Anthony has to navigate the ins and outs of a business in transition. The founder is stepping down and leaving his role to his son, a man ill-equipped to take the lead. Anthony helps plan events, takes part in staff training, and even solves the mystery of who stole all the Cool Ranch Doritos from the commissary.

There’s a fine line between having fun with and making fun of people in this type of an experiment, but like Ronald in season one of Jury Duty Anthony is so genuinely sweet you can’t help but find him endearing. With three new episodes out each week, I’m looking forward to seeing how this story unfolds for Anthony and the rest of the “workers” at Rockin’ Grandma’s Hot Sauce. (eight approximately 30-min. episodes) m

THE RELUCTANT ASTRONAUT: Ryan Gosling stars as Ryland Grace, a scientist on a mission to save the sun, in Project Hail Mary, screening in local theaters.

SLY DOG: Russell Crowe (bottom left corner) stars as Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring, Hitler’s second in command, who stood trial for Nazi war crimes, in Nuremberg, streaming on Netflix.

DUPED: Anthony Norman, a temp worker at a hot sauce company, attends a company retreat that’s completely staged and populated by actors, in Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat, streaming on Amazon Prime. PHOTO

Movies Lompoc, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande

Memory lane

In 30-plus years, Klondike Pizza has hardly changed a bit

BY MADISON WHITE

After five years of living in Anchorage, Alaska, Pamela Dennis told her husband, Mike, that she wanted out of the cold. Something about 35 feet of snow blocking the view of their two-story house made up her mind.

So, they brought a little bit of the Alaskan charm to the Central Coast.

The Dennis family’s Santa Maria pizza joint is filled with décor collected from the northern-most state. Sweatshirts and blankets hang from Klondike Pizza’s ceiling, photos and newspaper cuttings sit in frames on the walls, and glowing string lights weave a colorful trail around the restaurant.

“I wanted something that would never be trendy. That’s obvious,” Dennis said with a sweeping gesture around Klondike Pizza. “[Something that] would really not change, other than we just get more junk in here. And if you move away and come back, it’s going to be the way you remembered it.”

Klondike’s Santa Maria location turned 30 years old this March, just eight years behind its original Arroyo Grande spot. A true community hub since it opened, Klondike has advertised with the Sun since the paper’s second issue on April 7, 2000.

“It’s been a blur,” Dennis said.

Pandemic reverberations forced the business to change in a few ways, but the important things remain the same. While diners can still throw peanut shells on the exposed floor, they no longer receive a complimentary basket to fill. Instead, they can buy a premade bag for $1.

Waiters no longer walk around with pies for all-you-can-eat Tuesdays; food prices are too expensive for it to make sense. “It would not be the same as they remember, and people don’t like change,” Dennis said about stopping all-you-can-eat pizza. “But really, a lot hasn’t changed.”

One thing about Klondike is that, by design, it always feels like home. Dennis and her husband had a few criteria for the business. They wanted everyone to feel welcome and no one to fear walking in alone. Plus, it had to be family friendly.

“That was our dream, and it worked,” she said.

Part of the reason the restaurant feels like home is because of how many opportunities it gives residents to support one other. In March, the Santa Maria Klondike is raffling off prizes to fundraise for the local campus of the Santa Barbara Humane Society. The

Pizza pizza

To see Klondike’s menu, order online, and make reservations, visit klondikepizza.com. Follow along on Instagram @klondikepizza. The Santa Maria shop is located at 2059 S. Broadway and open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Call (805) 348-3667 with questions.

Years Celebrating * *

restaurant also invites students from special education programs to enjoy a slice and play games during the lunch hour. Dennis fed firefighters at no charge during the Gifford Fire last year.

Klondike also supports youth sports teams. The space is an ideal venue for hosting parties. Pizza is a great equalizer, too. It’s easy to eat, transport, and reheat for leftovers.

“So far I haven’t met anybody that doesn’t like pizza,” Dennis added.

FAMILY-RUN: Pamela Dennis and her husband, Mike, own and operate

Pizza, a family-friendly spot where everyone is welcome for a casual slice under colorful string lights and popular music from each of the past nine decades.

Share tasty tips!

Send tidbits on everything food and drink to mwhite@santamariasun.com.

The Klondike menu doesn’t change often, but a new addition appeared a couple of months ago at Mike’s recommendation. The Kodiak Korn pie is slathered with garlic sauce and topped with house-made Mexican street corn, relish, onions, bell peppers, garlic, and spices.

The rest of the menu is filled out with salads, sandwiches, burgers, and plenty of pizza creations. The Dennis’ grandkids declared their favorites, which are given special designations, too.

“If I don’t love it, it’s not going to go on the menu,” Dennis said.

As a kid—when it was rare to visit restaurants—her first memories going out to eat were at pizza places.

“I thought I’d died and gone to heaven,” she said. She’s happy to give families on the Central Coast the same experience. Everyone is welcome, as long as they behave.

Dennis joked that she tells parents of misbehaving children that she’ll show the kids what a quarter can do in a video game machine if they don’t shape up. An arcade that lights up a nook by the front door beckons gamers of all ages.

Staff also give the restaurant a welcoming vibe. Many feel more like family than coworkers, Dennis said. Take manager Patty Forsher, who has been with the business for 25 years.

and

“What I didn’t realize was going to happen is that my husband and I keep getting older,” she said.

“From practically the beginning,” Dennis said. “She’s part of who we are.”

Strong bonds are part of the reason Dennis feels she can’t retire. Her family has invested so much into the business for almost 40 years.

For now, they’re both still going strong, so stop by to crack open some peanuts and enjoy a slice or two. It’s going to be just like you remember it. m

Reach Staff

A COMMUNITY STAPLE: Klondike Pizza opened in Santa Maria 30 years ago selling pizza, burgers, and salads. The original Arroyo Grande location debuted in 1988. PHOTOS

Klondike

I SPY WITH MY LITTLE EYE: Part of Klondike Pizza’s charm is the warm, cabin-themed décor, inspired by the Dennis family’s residence in Alaska before moving to the Central Coast.

UNDER THE NEON: Video games

a handful of peanuts keep hungry diners satisfied while they wait for their order at Klondike Pizza.