One Santa Barbara County supervisor is concerned about the number of active felony warrants in the county—about 1,800 as of early April. Fifth District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino broached the subject during a discussion about expanding the North County jail and said he will continue to bring it up in the future. Without an apprehension team, the county’s approach to warrants relies on chance encounters for arrests. The undersheriff blames the issue on a lack of funding and personnel, and Lavagnino said he’s ready to talk dollars. Staff Writer Emma Montalbano writes about it [6]. Also this week, read about Richards Ranch’s lawsuit against the county and its annexation bid [4]; a graphic novel for kids about divorce [20]; and the duo behind Na Na Thai in Buellton [24]
“I would just submit to owners, Harmony and others, if your desire is to provide all-ages housing in a mobile home setting, build them,” Planning Commissioner Roy Reed said at the May 7 meeting. “I think it’s time for us as a Planning Commission and for the board and as a county to step up and say that’s not a business model we accept or find attractive if it involves displacing these very deserving seniors.”
—Caleb Wiseblood
Buellton restricts the size of secondary housing units
The Buellton City Council decided to restrict the size and height of accessory dwelling units at a meeting on May 8.
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a completely independent residence with its own kitchens and bathroom, Associate Planner Cara Miralles told the council. She said ADUs can be attached to the main house or detached as standalone units.
In 2022, a California Department of Housing and Community Development review found flaws in some restrictions outlined in Buellton’s ADU ordinance, which was last updated in 2020. This led Buellton to devote a section of its general plan housing element update to fixing its ADU ordinance in May 2023. In April, the Buellton Planning Commission recommended changes for the City Council to pass so that ADU policy could meet state standards.
The City Council chose to limit the maximum square footage to 850 for one bedroom and 1,000 for multi-bedroom attached ADUs. Detached ADUs are currently limited to 1,200 square feet, Miralles said.
Both of the city’s existing
preapproved designs would fit within the size restrictions, according to Miralles. She said the Planning Commission didn’t recommend further restricting size if a detached ADU is combined with others on the same property.
The council also adopted the commission’s recommendation limiting attached and detached ADUs to a maximum height of 25 feet and detached ADUs combined with an attached ADU or junior ADU to 18 feet. The 25-foot maximum height for ADUs allows attached second story additions and ADUs above detached first-floor garages.
Junior ADUs, unlike ADUs, must be entirely within a single-family home, Miralles said. She said they can consist of no more than 500 square feet and have their own kitchen but share a bathroom with the main house.
Miralles said garages are not counted in the floor area for an ADU. This gives homeowners a much larger area to work with since the average one-car garage is about 240 square feet. Hypothetically, Miralles said, this would allow someone—if they wanted to—to build a 1,200-square-foot second-story detached ADU over a 720-square-foot three-car garage.
Miralles said there hasn’t been an instance she’s aware of when the city told someone that they couldn’t build a detached ADU based on size. She said there’s been one 1,200-square-foot detached ADU built in the last seven years and the average studio apartment size in town is 570 square feet.
“This is hard to do by setting policy,” City Councilmember Hudson Hornick said. “This is something that will be on a case-by-case basis. We have a Planning Commission for a reason. … I’m ready to stick to [their square footage guidelines].” m
—Reece Coren
Justice on hold
Santa Barbara County supervisor raises concerns about the county’s number of active felony warrants
BY EMMA MONTALBANO
As of early April, more than 1,800 people are wanted on active felony warrants in Santa Barbara County, according to data from the Sheriff’s Office.
Fifth District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino expressed concern over this during the Board of Supervisors’ April 1 deliberation regarding the Northern Branch Jail expansion, and he told the Sun that he will bring attention to the topic again after budget hearings happen this summer.
“The reality is that because of the staffing challenges, and, quite frankly, the cuts to our local law enforcement resources, that doesn’t happen as much as it used to,” he said. “It’s just going to take additional resources dedicated to that to make that a reality, to get folks out there more frequently.”
Community action
“I’m starting to get frustrated that I continue to bring this up whenever we talk about the jail, and everybody just kind of gives me a glazed-over look, like, ‘Yeah, well, we got bigger fish to fry,’ or ‘that’s not our problem,’ or ‘we don’t have the money to do it,’” he said.
If anyone in the county knows the whereabouts of a wanted person, the Sheriff’s Office advises that they call the Santa Barbara Jail at (805) 681-4260.
In comparison to California counties of similar size, Santa Barbara County’s number of active felony warrants might not seem significant. For example, Monterey County has more than 3,000 active felony warrants, according to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.
However, unlike Santa Barbara County, Monterey County collaborates with other local agencies to pursue active felony warrants, according to Cmdr. Andres Rosas from the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.
Act now! Send any news or story tips to news@santamariasun.com.
From discussions he’s had with law enforcement, Lavagnino said he knows there is no apprehension team that works on pursuing active felony warrants. Instead, he explained, many of the people wanted on felony warrants walk free until they either commit another crime or run into law enforcement for some other reason.
“As a policymaker, I just think that’s a mistake,” Lavagnino said. “Now, everybody says it’s because there’s a lack of resources and that they would need additional funds to do that. I need to know what that’s going to cost because, to me, this is a priority.”
According to Santa Barbara County Undersheriff
Craig Bonner, the number of felony warrants includes two types: arrest warrants, which are actively investigated by detectives in ongoing criminal cases, and bench warrants, which are issued by a court for reasons such as failing to appear or violating probation terms.
Supervisor Lavagnino said that while he appreciates understanding how other counties deal with felony warrants, he doesn’t feel that comparing numbers is helpful.
“I don’t live in Monterey County, or Fresno County, or Kern County,” he said. “I’m worried about the folks that live in Santa Maria, the folks that live in Santa Barbara, and the folks that live in Guadalupe.”
Santa Barbara County District Attorney John Savrnoch expressed a similar sentiment, noting that any number of active felony warrants is significant.
‘Bringing everybody in is what we’re designed to do. We are not filing felony charges unless we feel there is sufficient evidence to prove a felony occurred.‘
—John Savrnoch, Santa Barbara County district attorney
Prior to the Great Recession, the Sheriff’s Office had a dedicated felony fugitive investigator who would look into active felony warrants, Bonner said. But now, it’s a matter of whether a patrol deputy or officer has extra time to look into these cases.
“Doing that comparison doesn’t satisfy anybody if they’re the victim of the crime and can’t get restitution and doesn’t satisfy anybody if an individual is out there that subsequently commits and violates another crime,” Savrnoch said. “Also, I don’t think we should ever accept that we’re doing marginally better than somebody else. We have very high expectations in Santa Barbara County about being safe and about being free from victimization.”
Felonies in California are typically serious crimes, Savrnoch said, adding that if someone has been accused of committing one, it’s
essential for law enforcement to bring them in and hold them accountable. He noted that felony crimes include murder, rape, and armed robbery, and he explained that if a person poses a serious threat to anyone’s safety, then law enforcement will actively work to arrest them and bring them before the court.
“It’s important to get restitution,” he said. “It’s important to exact changes in their behavior so they don’t continue to commit crimes. I mean, bringing everybody in is what we’re designed to do. We are not filing felony charges unless we feel there is sufficient evidence to prove a felony occurred.”
Lavagnino said that in the coming months he wants to invite the Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney’s Office, and local law enforcement agencies to present to the Board of Supervisors. He wants more clarification on the number of warrants, what they mean, and what law enforcement agencies would need to be more proactive in pursuing felony warrants.
“No one’s ever brought this to our attention
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and said, ‘Hey, here’s something you guys should be thinking about, and we need this X amount of funding to do this,’” Lavagnino said. “It doesn’t seem like it’s really been a priority, and so, that’s what’s concerning to me is that I seem to be the only one.”
Undersheriff Bonner said that in a “perfect world,” every agency in the county would have the funds and resources to dedicate a team of people to pursue all of the active felony warrants.
“The problem is we have fewer deputies today than we did when I started 31 years ago,” he said. “The work has gotten nothing but harder, takes longer, and yet we have fewer people to do it with. Ultimately, if we really want to take this seriously, the county Board of Supervisors and the city councils have got to provide the funding that’s necessary to have dedicated resources out there doing it.” m
Reach Staff Writer Emma Montalbano at emontalbano@newtimesslo.com.
TENSE TOPIC: Fifth District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino said that he will continue talking about the county’s active felony warrants, until the county can come up with a solution to hold people accountable and decrease the number.
BALLET NEPANTLA
¡Entrada gratuita!
VIERNES, 16 DE MAYO
MÚSICA, DANZA, Y MUCHO MÁS
FRIDAY, MAY 16 | 7 PM
‘Haku haku’
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash welcomes community to museum and cultural center
BY REECE COREN
Awelcome blessing—“haku haku”—is the first thing visitors hear walking into the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center.
The museum will also treat guests to paintings of former village sites, displays of ceremonial regalia, and recordings of elders speaking about life on reservations when it opens to the public on May 15, according to Kathleen Marshall, the chairwoman of the museum board.
Marshall said the museum tells the story of the Samala territory, the Chumash peoples’ ancestral homeland in modern Santa Barbara County, and should take guests between an hour or two to traverse, depending on how much they interact with the exhibits.
“People don’t really know who we are. It’s not taught in schools. This gives us an opportunity to educate the people on who we were and who we are today,” Marshall said.
SABADO, 17 DE MAYO
SATURDAY, MAY 17 | 7 PM
DOMINGO, 18 DE MAYO
MAY 18 | 6 PM
Las puertas abren a las 6:30pm el viernes y el sábado, y a las 5:30pm el domingo. Habra recepcion des del espectaculo.
Doors open 6:30pm on Friday and Saturday, 5:30pm on Sunday. Reception follows the performance.
The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians was federally recognized in 1901 and is still the only Chumash tribe in the U.S. to be so, according to the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Actual relics, though, required a little more patience to obtain.
“The artifacts weren’t just left for us,” Marshall said. “All of the artifacts were stolen, and the tribe had to acquire them back through [the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act]. Most of the artifacts we have on display were brought back because the tribe purchased or was loaned them.”
Marshall said having to depend on the willingness of private sellers to possess what belonged to her ancestors can be frustrating.
“Not only is it financially a burden, but it hurts to know we have to do this. It’s draining,” Marshall said. “Yes, it would be a perfect world if people would just be like, ‘Oh, your ancestors made these? You can have these back.’ But, that’s not the reality of what’s happening.”
Felicia Cogorno, education programs and volunteer manager for the museum, said she’s excited the museum will finally provide tribe members the opportunity to tell their story through their perspective and using their language.
Come on in The Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center is located at 3500 Numancia St. and open Thursdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults; $12 for teenagers, seniors 65 and older, and active duty military members with identification; and $10 for children ages 3 to 12. Children under 3 and Santa Ynez Chumash community members can enter for free. For more information, visit sychumashmuseum.org.
While the museum may be new to guests, Santa Ynez Chumash members have been putting the facility together for decades.
“We started off as an advisory committee about 20 years ago, but the thought of having a museum has existed since the ’70s,” Marshall said.
To generate ideas, Marshall said the advisory committee visited museums across the East Coast that hold native artifacts. Seeing the “old school” approaches of most museums led the committee to pursue an innovative approach.
“We wanted to show that, yes, we have these beautiful items our ancestors left us, but we’re still creating those today,” Marshall said. “It was important to make sure we represent our ancestors while also [showing] we are still living.”
So, when the committee became a board with Marshall at the helm, she made sure to include exhibits representing current lingual trends, basket weavers, and community leaders.
Current Chumash members re-created artifacts for the museum. Some of the items Marshall highlighted included Sofia Mata-Leon’s abalone pendants, Chanse Zavalla’s steatite bowl, Levi Šičwat Zavalla’s fishing net, and Frank Dominguez’s bone whistles.
As education programs manager, Cogorno compiled a collection of Indigenous written and themed books for the Maria Solares Discovery Center, a classroom space named after the tribe’s ancestor. One book she highlighted was Spirit Rangers by tribe member Karissa Valencia, which has a corresponding Netflix animated show.
“Growing up, as an indigenous student, it was difficult to have to search out books written by other native people,” Cogorno said. “I wanted to create a space where native students could easily see themselves in the books we have available.”
In the future, the tribe hopes to host special events, fundraisers, and potentially classes on topics like basket weaving and flint knapping at the museum.
“As someone who went to school here, I wish I would’ve had this museum to go to as a young person,” Cogorno said. “I encourage everyone, Chumash or not, to come visit.”
Highlight
• The Santa Maria-Lompoc Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People was awarded $30,000 from Santa Barbara County’s Racial Equity Grant last month. The group plans to use the money to fund an annual gathering honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., two annual celebrations of Black history, its Unsung Heroes Project, and culturally competent programming in schools, according to a press release. m
Reach Staff Writer Reece Coren at rcoren@ santamariasun.com.
NOT JUST ANY ROOF: Architect Johnpaul Jones designed the dome structures at the end of the museum to represent traditional Native American homes, called ‘ap
The Santa Maria Joint Union
High School District
Special Education - Child Find
The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) seeks to identify, locate, and evaluate high school age students suspected of having a disability who may be eligible for special education services designed to meet their educational needs at no cost to families. This includes students that are highly mobile, migrant, experiencing homelessness, students that are wards of the state, and students attending private schools located within SMJUHSD boundaries. If you suspect your child has a disability, contact the school special education department or district office Special Education Department.
Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)
El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas
Preparatorias de Santa Maria
Educación Especial - Búsqueda de Estudiantes
El Distrito Unificado de Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria (SMJUHSD) busca identificar, localizar y evaluar a los estudiantes en edad de escuela preparatoria sospechosos de tener una discapacidad que puede ser elegible para servicios de educación especial diseñados para satisfacer sus necesidades educativas sin costo alguno para las familias. Esto incluye a los estudiantes que son altamente móviles, migrantes, sin hogar, estudiantes que están bajo la tutela del estado, y los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas privadas ubicadas dentro los limites de SMJUHSD. Si sospecha que su hijo tiene una discapacidad, comuníquese con el departamento de educación especial de la escuela u oficina de Educación Especial del distrito SMJUHSD.
Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)
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CALIFORNIA PAID FAMILY LEAVE GRANT
January 31st | 4:30pm-6:00pm | Historic Santa Maria Inn 801 S Broadway, Santa Maria, CA 93454
The California Paid Family Leave Grant allows eligible small businesses to apply for grants up to $2,000 per employee to offset the increased costs associated with the employee out on leave, including aid for training and upskilling existing staff to cover the duties of the employee on California’s Paid Family Leave; hiring and training additional staff to cover the duties of the employee on California’s Paid Family Leave; and marketing, recruitment, and other reasonably foreseeable training costs
JB Dewar
JUSTIN Vineyard & Winery
Leticia’s First Class Cleaning, Inc.
Lumina Alliance
Madonna Inn
Making SLO
Martha Olson-Fernandez Foundation (MOFF)
Mesa Design Group
MGP Coatings
Major sponsor:
Miller Event Management, Inc.
Mountaineer IT
Murphy Bank
NAMI SLO County
New Life K9s
New Times
Orangetheory Fitness San Luis Obispo
Pacifica Hotels
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Paso Robles Safe & Lock
Photon Brothers
Placer Title
Popolo Catering
Social sponsors:
Polk Insurance Agency
Powersource Chiropractic
Press Quesadilla Grill
Professional IT Solutions
Promotores Collaborative of SLO County housed by Center for Family Strengthening
Puzzle Effect
Quesadilla Gorilla
Rancho Burro Donkey Sanctuary
Residence Inn & Springhill Suites San Luis Obispo
Rogall + Co
Roof Maxx of S. San Luis Obispo
San Luis Ambulance Service, Inc.
San Luis Obispo Blues Baseball
San Luis Obispo County Integrated Waste
Management Authority
Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce
SESLOC Credit Union
SLO Chamber Business Supporting Business
SLO Climate Coalition
Sloco Massage + Wellness
SLO Food Co-op
SLO for Home
SLO Graze
SLO Piercing
SLO Review
South County Chambers of Commerce
St. Andrew The Apostle Greek Orthodox Church
Sunrun
Surfing for Hope Foundation
The Decision Bar
The Law Offices of Daniel J. Knight, APLC
The Management Trust
The Mayan Collective
The Monday Club
The Sign Place
The Villages of San Luis Obispo
The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Therapy Era
Tri-County Office Furniture, Inc.
UCLA Health
United Staffing Associates
United Way of SLO County
Valerie’s Bookkeeping Co.
Velvet Noses Horse Ministry
Waste Connections
Wildflower Women & Sandbox Kids
Williams Cleaning Systems Central Coast
Wisdom Center
Hot Stuff
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: 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/.
RENT Set in the East Village of NYC, this acclaimed musical follows young musicians and artists trying to create amidst the height of AIDS/HIV. Through May 25, 7 p.m. $20. my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
VALLEY ART GALLERY: ROTATING DISPLAYS Featured artists of Santa Maria’s Valley Art Gallery frequently display their works at the airport. Check website for details on monthly exhibits and full list of the gallery’s artists. ongoing valleygallery.org. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
YOSEMITE: SANCTUARY IN STONE A solo exhibition by award-winning nature and landscape photographer William Neill. Through Sept. 1 California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, calnatureartmuseum.org.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
PAINTING IN THE ORCHARD AT ROCK 12
DISTILLERY Dip a brush into paint while
taking sips of wine at Rock 12 Distillery. Visit site for tickets and more info. May 25 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $89. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Rock 12 Distillery, 6605 Highway 246, Lompoc.
PAINTING WITH GLASS EXHIBIT Kristine Kelly’s show Painting with Glass is on display until May 25. Kelly, this month’s featured artist at Lompoc’s Cypress Gallery, has experimented with glass for 30 years, and create works of art that viewers can peer into and get lost in. Through May 25 lompocart.org/events. Cypress Gallery, 119 E Cypress Ave., Lompoc, (805) 705-5328.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BROADWAY NOW AND THEN Celebrating the Studio’s 25 years in business, Broadway Now and Then will include a variety of numbers from Broadway shows. Support the drama production class and guests. Get tickets at the link. May 16, 7 p.m., May 17, 7 p.m. and May 18 2 p.m. $15. my805tix.com. The Studio of Performing Arts, 835 West Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA
The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its monthly meeting. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Nov. 15 Free. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
THE FORBIDDEN PARALLEL: BOOK
AND ALBUM LAUNCH An evening of words and music with debut author and musician Kevin Carver. RSVPs encouraged, as space is limited. May 24 6-9 p.m. Free. (805) 710-2282. kevincarver. com. Banner Coffee Company, 995 E. Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande.
LESS MISERABLE A spoof of one of the most beloved musicals of all time. Through June 14 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
MASTER HIGHLIGHTING EVENT This local gallery on the corner of Cypress and Stimson is hosting a Master Highlighting Event during Memorial Day weekend. Come in and watch Thomas Kinkade’s Master Highlighter add highlights to make the artwork come to life. May 24 -25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. (805) 773-9424. Thomas Kinkade Showcase by the Sea, 500 Cypress, S-5, Pismo Beach, kinkadecentralcoast.com.
MOANA JR. Set sail with Judkins and Mesa Theater, in partnership with Na Mele O Ke Kai, for Disney’s music-filled adventure full of heart, humor, and more. May 16 7-9 p.m. and May 17 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. General admission $17; student/child $12. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/moanajr/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
TRILOGY CLAY BUDDIES SPRING POTTERY SALE Come find unique handmade pottery, including functional ware, yard art, sculptures, and home decor. Check or cash are preferred for purchases. May 17 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. The Monarch Club at Trilogy Monarch Dunes, 1645 Trilogy Parkway, Nipomo.
WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA Check the venue’s calendar for storytelling workshops, lectures, movie nights, and discussions held on a periodic basis. ongoing thelavra.org/
HIKE AMONG THE FLOWERS
Join botanist Mark Skinner as he guides hikers along the Oso Flaco trail on Saturday, May 24, from 9 a.m. to noon. Information about blooming wildflowers, plant communities, and the surrounding landscape’s history will be covered. Visit dunescenter.org to purchase tickets and get additional details.
—Angie Stevens
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Third Wednesday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and Fourth Thursday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. (805) 7474200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. CREATIVITY DAYS WITH THE SILK ARTISTS OF CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST An opportunity to work on your own projects and materials while picking up new skills among friends. Note: this event is held mostly every third Monday (attendees are asked to call or email to confirm ahead of time). Third Monday of every month $5; first session free. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 747-4200.
CUESTA DRAMA PRESENTS: TREASURE
ISLAND Watch as Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of murder, money, and mutiny is brought to life onstage in this new adaptation. May 15, 7:30 p.m., May 16, 7:30 p.m., May 17, 7:30 p.m. and May 18 2 p.m. $27 general; $20 student with ID. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
ESTEBAN CABEZA DE BACA: REMEMBERING THE FUTURE Ranging from 2015 to 2024, the eleven paintings in the gallery explore issues of belonging and identity, activism, and joy and celebration. Through June 22, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
I HATE HAMLET In Paul Rudnick’s dramatic comedy, when television star Andrew Rally moves back to New York and finds himself cast as Hamlet, nothing seems right. Thursdays-Sundays, 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through May 18 $20-$37. slorep.org. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 786-2440.
IMPROV COMEDY SHOWS AT THE HUB
The show contents will be rotated among the group’s ensemble, house, and musical improv team casts, as well as stand-up and student shows. Fourth Friday of every month, 6 p.m. my805tix.com/. The Hub, 1701 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART
Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. (702) 335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.
NOTES FOR TOMORROW Features artworks from around the world, brought together to reflect on a new global reality ushered in by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through June 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/notes-fortomorrow/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
OPERA SAN LUIS OBISPO PRESENTS
THE WIZARD OF OZ Hear the songs from the 1939 film performed live by OperaSLO’s Grand Orchestra and a large chorus during this show, which features an acclaimed cast, expansive sets, dance, and more. May 17, 2 p.m. and May 18 2 p.m. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, 756-4849, pacslo.org.
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 Wednesdays, 1:303:30 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo. com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO SHOW On display now through mid-April. ongoing slogallery.com/. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. (559) 799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.
DEATHTRAP From By The Sea Productions. Visit site for more info. Through May 18 bytheseaproductions. org/. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.
FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER JACK MCNEAL McNeal’s sea-inspired photography highlights his lifelong passion for exploration and the sea, from his wanderings from Highland Park to the Central Coast and beyond. Through May 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068.
home. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KEN FIGLIOLI
galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FEATURED SCULPTURE ARTIST JARI DE
HAM Gallery at Marina Square features
Jari de Ham’s Chinese brush paintings and sculptures. Since 2002, this artist has mastered painting birds, flowers, calligraphy, and more. Through May 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FRESH! NEW WORK IN FINE CRAFT Join the artist’s reception and enjoy the exhibit, which will be on display until the end of June. May 18 2-4 p.m. Free. (805)772-2524. centralcoastartistcollective.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.
GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE
PRESENTS PHOTOGRAPHER KERRY
DRAGER Morro Bay photographer Kerry Drager’s work will be on display. An accomplished author and educator, Drager captures inspiring sights with vivid light in camera. Through May 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. ongoing (805) 772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
BOOMBOX BINGO Every third Tuesday is Bingo Night at Naughty Oak, but with a musical twist. Sip on a brew while
listening to great tunes at this free event. May 20, 7-9 p.m. Free. my805tix.com/e/nobingomay. Naughty Oak Brewing Company, 165 South Broadway, Orcutt. D&D AND BOARD GAMES AT THE LIBRARY
Join the Santa Maria Valley Adventurers League for board games, Dungeons & Dragons, and tutorials for new players. Children under 16 require adult supervision. May 25 , 1-4:30 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF SANTA MARIA VALLEY MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Join the club meeting, every third Thursday. May 15, 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 349-2708. Sara Lee Macdonald, 327 E. Plaza Dr., SANTA MARIA, santamariademocrats.info.
PAINTING WITH GLASS
FAMILY TOOLS+ FamilyTools+ is geared towards parents of youth, ages 5 to 18, with ADHD, autism, Tourette’s to focus on the needs of neurodiverse youth. Get more info at the link. Thursdays, 12-1 p.m. through July 1 Free. (805) 770-1593. youthwell.org/ groups. Online (Santa Barbara County), Visit website, Countywide.
This month’s featured artist at Lompoc’s Cypress Gallery is Kristine Kelly, whose show, Painting with Glass, is on display until Sunday, May 25. Using kiln-fired glass, Kelly has honed her artistic style over the 30 years she’s experimented with the medium. Visit lompocart.org for more information. —A.S.
FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt. org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. FLIRTY FICTION BOOK CLUB Flirty Fiction is a book club for contemporary romance readers ages 18 and older. Registration is required. May 19, 5:15-6:15 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994 ext.8562. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing (805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe. JUNK JOURNAL BOOK CLUB Junk Journaling Book Club combines crafting and reading into one fun club. Registration is required. May 24 2-3:30 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994 ext.8562. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
POETRY FOR SELF-CARE Explore new self-expression through poetry for well-being with guest facilitator Dot Winslow. This is a workshop for patrons 18 and over and registration is required. May 18 , 2-3 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SANTA MARIA COIN CLUB: MONTHLY MEETING Coin collectors of all ages invited. Bring coins for free appraisals. Third Wednesday of every month, 7 p.m. Yearly membership: $20-$25. (805) 937-
3158. Cornerstone Church, 1026 E. Sierra Madre Ave., Santa Maria.
SANTA MARIA TOASTMASTERS
Develop your public speaking skills at this club meeting. Third Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. (805) 570-0620. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.
VALLEY READS BOOK CLUB
Join The Valley Reads book club for snacks and discussion. Registration is required for this 18 years and older event. May 17 2-3 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
2025 PEACE OF MIND: 10,000 STEPS IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION FUNDRAISING
WALK Alma Rosa will host its sixth annual 2025 Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction fundraising walk. May 17 9 a.m. $50-$60. (707) 695-5811. runsignup.comRaceCA/Buellton/ PeaceofMind10000Stepsin theRightDirection. Alma Rosa Estate, 7250 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton.
GEM FAIRE Stop by this two-day gem faire to see an array of vendors. Get more info at the link. May 23 -25, 12-6 p.m. $7 weekend pass. (503) 252-8300. gemfaire. com. Earl Warren Showgrounds, 3400 Calle Real, Santa Barbara.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
LOMPOC BOTANIC GARDEN TOUR Join for an outdoor meeting and free guided tour of Lompoc’s maritime chaparral garden. Wear protective clothes and closed-toe shoes. May 18 , 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 450-3668. lvbhs.org/activities.
Burton Mesa Chaparral Garden at Allan Hancock College, 1 Hancock Drive, Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
17TH ANNUAL VINTAGE TRAILER RALLY Join for the Vintage Trailer Rally, featuring beautifully restored travel trailers and motorhomes. Tour these nostalgic treasures and shop the swap meet. May 17 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort, 165 S Dolliver St., Pismo Beach, (805) 773-5649.
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. BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. (970) 710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.
DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing (805) 619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
FREE FIVE CITIES REPAIR CAFÉ Handy volunteers are available to fix broken bikes, small appliances, electronics, computers, tablets, smart phones, game consoles, clothing, outdoor gear and apparel. May 17, 1-4:30 p.m. Free. (650) 367-6780. repaircafe5cities.org. Oceano CSD, 1655 Front St., Oceano.
Grooming Team: Colette Florey, Janae Amador & Isabella Moreno Groomers’ Assistants: Jacob Hughes, Brandi Janke, Cody Dugan & Morgan
Vineyards,
FREE MOVIE NIGHT IN THE SECRET
GARDEN: A GOOFY MOVIE Grab your favorite ‘90s outfit and head to Sycamore Springs’ Secret Garden for a movie under the stars. RSVP at the link. May 23 8 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, (805) 595-7302.
INGREDIENT PROFILE FORUM:
OLIVE OIL The event will cover history, etymology, import, export, production, crop value, processing, store pricing, and recipe sharing. An RSVP is required. May 24 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 878-7982. instagram.com/mypassionismyfood/. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.
LITTLE RANGER PROGRAM: BIRDS OF PISMO STATE BEACH Join for a bird-tastic adventure. Enjoy fun stations and a walk around the lagoon to see what birds can be spotted. This program is for ages 3 to 7. RSVP at the number provided. May 25 1011 a.m. Free. (805) 474-2664. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., Oceano.
MOVIE NIGHT ON THE ROCKS: LILO & STITCH (2002) Enjoy this family-friendly movie night. RSVP at the link. May 25 7:45 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach, (805) 773-5000.
MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS
FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 dropin; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS
A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
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.
SHAKE RATTLE N ROLL SENIOR PROM
Head to the prom and join in on the ‘50s to ‘60s best dressed and karaoke contest. RSVP by calling the number provided. May 17 2-5 p.m. Free. (805) 819-9329. Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St., Nipomo.
SOUTH COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
CEMETERY TOUR
The tour, led by Historical Society President and author Jim Gregory, includes pioneers and immigrants, war heroes, a tragic murder victim, and a few eccentrics. May 25 2-3 p.m. Free. (805) 489-8282. southcountyhistory.org. Arroyo Grande District Cemetery, 895 El Camino Real, Arroyo Grande.
TALENTDREAMS 2ND ANNUAL SPRING
PICNIC AND MUSIC HOSTED BY
CHAMISAL VINEYARDS
Enjoy this familyfriendly event, that will include a bounce house, Auten Boys BBQ, a wine raffle, and live music from Ben Hein Music. Get more info at the link. May 17, 1-5 p.m. $24. my805tix.com. Malene Scene Airstream, 7767 Orcutt Road, Arroyo Grande.
TOUR OF GROVER BEACH Dress up your bikes for a parade from City Hall to 16th St. Park. All ages and skill levels are welcome. May 17 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. (805)
SPRING PICNIC
Head to Chamisal Vineyards on Orcutt Road in SLO for TalentDreams’ second annual Spring Picnic and Music in the Vineyard on Saturday, May 17, from 1 to 5 p.m. Hear music by SLO singer and guitarist Ben Hein, and grab grub from Auten Boys BBQ. Get tickets at my805tix.com. For more information about the family-friendly event, visit talentdreams.org.
—A.S.
473-4580. City of Grover Beach, 154 S 8th St., Grover Beach, groverbeach.org.
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.
WILDFLOWER HIKE AT OSO FLACO
Botanist Mark Skinner will be guiding a hike from the Oso Flaco Lake Trailhead to learn about plant communities, native wildflowers, and the landscape’s history. Get more info at the link. May 24 , 9 a.m.noon $5-$10. (805) 343-2455. dunescenter. org. Oso Flaco Lake, 3098 Oso Flaco Lake Road, Arroyo Grande.
EXPLORATION OF BIRDS AND BOTANY AT THE BOTANICAL GARDEN The SLO Botanical Garden, in collaboration with the Morro Coast Audubon Society, presents a bird walk exploring the unique relationship between birds and botany. May 18 9-11 a.m. $20. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 9059274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.
CENTRAL COAST POLYAMORY Hosting a discussion group featuring different topics relating to ethical non-monogamy every month. Third Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
CLIMATE ACTION GATHERING: HOW WE ROLL In honor of Bike Month, explore SLO’s diverse bike culture with SLO Climate Coalition. May 20, 5:30 p.m. Free. (805)7041549. sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, 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.
FROM CELLS TO STORMS: THE HIDDEN ORDER OF CHAOS THEORY WITH PAUL GREILING Join Dr. Greiling as he introduces the Chaos Theory, which is the science of how the universe’s complexity stems from simple rules repeated over and over. Get more information about the event at the link. May 15 1-3 p.m. $12. my805tix.com. Oddfellows Hall, 520 Dana Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-0876. GALA PRIDE AND DIVERSITY CENTER BOARD MEETING (VIA ZOOM) Monthly meeting of the Gala Pride and Diversity Center Board of Directors. Meets virtually via Zoom and is open to members of the public. Visit galacc.org/events to fill out the form to request meeting access. Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. No admission fee. galacc.org. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT
GROUP A safe place to share feelings of depression with those who suffer and those who have recovered to a full, healthy outlook on life. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A pro-recovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. Third Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.
PLUG-IN TO LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION Get inspired by local action, connect with others, and discover more ways to get involved with the SLO Climate Coalition. Attend virtually or in-person. Sustainable snacks and childcare will be provided. Third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. Ludwick Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, San Luis Obispo.
Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social
identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
THE SAN LUIS OBISPO OUT OF THE DARKNESS WALK Join for this annual community walk to raise awareness and fund the fight against suicide. Visit site for more info. May 17, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. afsp.org. Cal Poly University Union Plaza, Mustang Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 756-1281.
SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A good core group of friends who gather to discuss topics we love/ care about from movies, outings, music, or being new to the area. We come from all walks of life and most importantly support each other. Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. sloqueer. groups.io/g/lezbfriends. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN MONTHLY GET-TOGETHERS SLO RAMs is a group of retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Third Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $31 luncheon. retiredactivemen.org/. Madonna Inn Garden Room, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.
SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+
AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)
WALK AND SUPPORT
Support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and advocate for mental health during the Out of the Darkness Campus Walk on Cal Poly’s campus on Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event will be held at the University Union Plaza; to register or get additional details, visit afsp.org.
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE
Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
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.
link. May 18 2-5 p.m. $100. (805) 925-0412. smphilharmonic.org. Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.
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 AND FOOD BY LOBO BUTCHER SHOP Check out live music every Friday night from a variety of artists at Steller’s Cellar in Old Orcutt. Dinner served by Lobo Butcher Shop between 5 and 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 5-9 p.m. Varies according to food options. (805) 623-5129. stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
2025 SPRING FOLK-N-SOAK: MUSIC, HOT SPRINGS, YOGA, CAMPING
TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
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.
WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check
REUNION Enjoy music each day from Christopher Hawley, along with a selection of other artists, while soaking in 100-degree mineral water, and camping under the stars. Get more info at the link. May 16, 4 p.m.-midnight, May 17 noon-midnight and May 18 12-6 p.m. $35. my805tix.com. Franklin Hot Springs, 3015 Creston Rd., Paso Robles.
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.
FOOD & DRINK
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.
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
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.
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.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
CHOCOLATE DE VINE Chocolate de Vine benefits Standing Together to End Sexual Assault, founded in 1974 to support survivors of sexual assault. May 17, 4-7:30 p.m. $125. chocolatedevine.org.
Saint Barbara Events Center, 1205 San Antonio Creek Road, Santa Barbara, (805) 683-4492.
MUSIC
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
CANAAN SMITH AT THE STOCKYARD
Hear Nashville country artist Canaan Smith live. Get tickets and more info about the live show at the link. May 23 , 4-8 p.m. $24. my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S. Broadway St., Orcutt, (805) 934-3777.
GARDEN PARTY BENEFITTING THE
SANTA MARIA PHILHARMONIC Celebrate Classical Music at a Garden Party, while helping the Santa Maria Philharmonic stay live and local. Get more info at the
MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic.com/ Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria. 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.
WILD RECORDS TAKEOVER AT THE STOCKYARD Get blasted back to the age of rockabilly, and feel the electric vibe of the ‘50s at this live show. Tickets are available for purchase at the link. May 24, 4 p.m. $13. my805tix.com. Blast 825 Brewery, 241 S. Broadway St., Orcutt, (805) 934-3777. SANTA YNEZ VALLEY CARMEN AND THE RENEGADE VIGILANTES Enjoy an evening of live country and rock dance songs by Carmen and The Renegade Vigilantes. May 16 8:30-11:30 p.m. mavericksaloon.com. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, (805) 686-4785.
ARTS BRIEFS
Solvang Theaterfest celebrates summer kickoff with picnicking and live music by Pablo Cruise
Solvang Theaterfest welcomes back summer with a Pablo Cruise concert on Friday, May 24, at 7 p.m.
Executive director Chantel Green said Solvang will also host an open picnic for the community from 4 to 6 p.m. that day. She encouraged interested community members to bring their own meals and parents to bring their children.
“It’s great, classic summertime rock played under the stars,” board member and actress Polly Firestone Walker said. “There’s nothing better than being in the garden and sharing the reaction with the audience at what they’re seeing onstage.”
Solvang will also host concerts every other Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. all summer long, including rock band Doublewide Kings on June 8, ’80s group The Molly Ringwald Project on July 27, and Steely Dan Tribute band Doctor Wu on Aug. 10. Walker said she’s looking forward to Mat Kearney’s Sept. 10 performance. On Nov. 14, United Kingdom-based cover band Gary Mullen and the Works will perform One Night of Queen.
“It really is a community here,” Green said. “I’ve seen people come to shows alone and really enjoy themselves.”
Solvang Theaterfest is located at 420 2nd St. For tickets, calendar details, and more information, visit solvangtheaterfest.org.
Great American Melodrama stages
Les Misérables parody
From now until June 14, the Great American Melodrama in Oceano will host Less Miserable a comedic parody of the iconic play Les Misérables based on Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel.
“We keep all of the plot points,” said John Keating, artistic director for the Melodrama. “We’re telling the whole story of Les Misérables .”
Keating said one way the Melodrama’s version spoofs the original play is through contemporary music with adjusted lyrics to fit the story. For example, he said audience members will hear “Every Breath You Take” by The Police as Inspector Javert chases Jean Valjean outside the prison.
Jordan Richardson said it took him about six months to write Less Miserable
“There’s something for everybody in the audience,” said Richardson, who also plays the piano for the play. “Anytime someone can smile through a death, I’ve done my job.”
“This play is filled with laughs,” Keating said. “Some of the jokes are in reference to the original, but most of the jokes are funny because they’re situational. You do not need to know Les Misérables to enjoy this story.”
The Melodrama is located at 1863 Front St. and is open Wednesdays to Saturdays from noon to 5:30 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 4:30 p.m. Tickets range between $30 and $38. For more information, call (805) 489-2499, or visit amercanmelodrama.com. m
Briefs is compiled by Reece Coren. Send information
The art of divorce
Central Coast graphic novelist Kane Lynch releases Reel Life
BY GLEN STARKEY
Sixth grader Galen Murphy’s life is about to get upended. One of his friends, Kyle, has suddenly turned mean, and worse still, his parents announce they’re separating. Galen and his other friend, Luna, decide to make a documentary film about his parents’ divorce. Will Galen’s “reel” life help him process his “real” life? So goes the premise of Kane Lynch’s debut Scholastic publication, Reel Life, coming out on May 20.
Lynch grew up in San Luis Obispo and experienced his own parents’ divorce, and his semi-autobiographical book explores the myriad emotions and complications divorced families go through.
Galen’s dad, Paul, has an affair and strikes up a relationship with the much younger Jasmine. Galen’s mom, Roberta, is devastated, but she eventually finds a new relationship with Mike, whose daughter Autumn brings new difficulties into Galen’s family dynamics.
“The ‘family’ story is more autobiographical than the ‘kid’ story,” Lynch explained. “I wanted to capture my family’s specific quirky dynamic, how my experience wasn’t really like any divorce story I’d seen in movies or TV. The storyline with the kids is more of a classic ‘composite characters’ situation. Me and my friends were always doing creative projects together, and our personal drama often dovetailed with our artistic output.
“But there’s no one real ‘Kyle’ or ‘Luna,’ even if every one of my childhood friends will probably think one or the other is based on them. In both cases, I felt like a fictional framework was the best way to reflect the authentic emotional experience of what really happened—I wanted to make my characters talk to each other, and to do that, I had to have license to imagine scenes and conversations.”
Lynch’s book promises to help young readers experiencing their parents’ divorce understand that they’re not alone and maybe help them process their feelings.
Lynch, 38, has had a lifelong love affair with comics and cartooning, beginning in the fourth
grade. He created comics for the SLO High School newspaper, graduated in 2004, then attended UC Santa Cruz, where his interests “vacillated between comics and film.” He took a job as a video editor in the Bay Area, but comics were always his passion.
When he got laid off, he decided to go all-in on his dream, moving to a “2,000-person town in Vermont” to earn his Master of Fine Arts from The Center for Cartoon Studies in 2016. He eventually found his way back to SLO in 2023. Along the way, he became a professional cartoonist and educator whose nonfiction comics and illustrations have appeared on The Nib, Slate, and Psychology Today, and in the graphic novel Guantanamo Voices (Abrams Books, 2020). Reel Life is his first graphic novel designed for kids.
In the book, Galen’s dad, a yoga instructor, meets Jasmine at a yoga retreat.
Meet the artist
Graphic novelist and cartoonist Kane Lynch releases his debut Scholastic graphic novel, Reel Life at a launch party at the SLO Library (995 Palm St.) on Saturday, May 24, starting at 1 p.m. He’ll read from Reel Life engage in a Q-and-A, and sign copies. Preorder at kanelynch.com. Lynch will also offer a series of cartooning workshops at the county’s libraries in July. Visit cartooningwithkane.com for a complete schedule.
Lynch describes Galen’s dad as a “positive person who wants everyone to have a good time and is sort of unaware of the repercussions of his actions. He’s a little bit of a jock, but a hippie jock.”
Lynch felt it was important to explore the topic of divorce from a kid’s perspective and explore a kid’s emotional response and ways of processing their situation.
“I wanted to do some version of this for years, and I didn’t originally think of it as a book for kids,” he explained. “Most of my other professional work so far has not been for kids. But this story, it’s something that happened to me when I was a kid, and for whatever reason, my memories of that time are very vivid. I felt I could tap into that.”
Scholastic is gearing the book for 8- to 12-year-olds, which Lynch calls “a huge age for graphic novels.”
“The majority of graphic novels sold
are for kids that age, and Scholastic is the biggest publisher,” he said. “Someone asked me, ‘Would you kill to work for DC or Marvel?’ I would be happy to, sure, but Scholastic is as big as those guys. It’s just a different demographic.”
Lynch’s novel does a spectacular job at character development—of both kids and adults—who act and feel like real people. Galen’s friend Kyle is angry his parents are divorcing, and he handles it much differently than Galen. Luna’s parents would never divorce, but that doesn’t stop them from fighting, which pains her. Slightly older Autumn, the daughter of Galen’s mom’s new boyfriend, has her own divorce-related issues to deal with and lashes out in a hurtful way.
“When you’re a kid and your parents are fighting, you don’t process it like an adult, ‘Well, mom had some good points but also dad had some good points.’ No, you just think, ‘Oh God, they’re yelling,’” Lynch said. “As a kid is navigating this, I wanted there to be some inner kid conflict too. Fundamentally the way humans treat each other and build relationships and have problems with those relationships—that’s something that can happen when you’re 11 or when you’re 45.
“There are some things that are funny about how kids deal with things, including not being aware that the family issues are why they’re acting the way they are, which is especially true with Autumn and Kyle but probably true of all of these. They don’t have the tools to resolve their conflicts.
“The adult characters are all versions of me to some degree now that I’ve been these ages,” Lynch continued. “Hey, what’s it like to be 26 and move to a new place? What’s it like to be in your late 30s and question your life choices? I feel connected to all of them, and I feel like the adult characters are as big a part of it as the kid characters. I hope that people of all ages will read it.” m
Contact New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNIFER ‘Z’ ZORNOW
IMAGE COURTESY OF SCHOLASTIC AND KANE LYNCH
JUDGE IT: Children’s book publisher Scholastic releases Reel Life on May 20, with story and drawings by Kane Lynch and color by Maddie Sackett.
IMAGE COURTESY OF SCHOLASTIC AND KANE LYNCH
LOCAL SCENES: In Reel Life, graphic novelist Kane Lynch brings SLO Town to cartoon life, in a story about divorce.
KANE IS ABLE: Graphic novelist and cartoonist Kane Lynch, here with his cat P-Nut, will engage in a Q-and-A and sign copies of his new book Reel Life on May 24 in the SLO Library.
Ashley and Nik first met in 2014, when they were working for Companion Hospitality Central Coast, the Ryans’ group that supports artisan restaurants in the Santa Ynez Valley.
they moved to the country, the offer was just for Nik. Ashley had to find her own job. This time, the offer was for both of them—as a team.
BY REECE COREN
When it comes to ingredients like monosodium glutamate, Ashley and Nik Ramirez don’t let misconceptions prevent them from trying to provide the most authentic experience possible.
Ashley said some of the dishes at Na Na Thai have MSG in them, and customers shouldn’t be scared. The Mayo Clinic and Michigan State University’s Center for Research on Ingredient Safety say research has proven no link between consuming MSG and experiencing adverse reactions.
The ingredient is used in some Thai dishes, especially street food, which Na Na specializes in.
“We believe in the integrity of the dish,” Ashley said. “We don’t offer any substitutions. We think that it ruins the integrity of the dish.”
The restaurant pays homage to the time the couple spent in Bangkok, and its menu is a compilation of their favorite street foods—such as fried calamari with turmeric and sweet chili sauce (pla muk tod) or red curry with pork and salted egg over jasmine rice ( geng daeng moo sap). The pair has owned and operated the Buellton restaurant alongside their partners, Daisy and Greg Ryan, for a couple of years now. Their journey to the Buellton spot took more than a decade and involved more than one stint in the Southeast Asian country.
After about four months of dating Ashley, Nik said he got a job offer in Bangkok. But he wasn’t ready to separate from her yet, so he asked her to come with him.
“We put our relationship through the pressure cooker,” Nik said. “We got tested, and it made us stronger.”
After a year in Thailand cooking for an “East meets West, FrenchJapanese” restaurant, Nik said he and Ashley spent a year in Japan trying to open a steak house that eventually fell through.
“We ended up coming back to Santa Barbara,” Nik said. “We were just getting settled when we got a call for me and Ashley to work for the same company.”
It was in Thailand, again, but this time things were different. Last time
Nik said they spent two years there and had two kids, who are now 6 and 7 years old. Again, they returned to the Central Coast, worked, and waited for an opportunity.
Ashley and Nik had so much fun working together during their second stint in Thailand, that they wanted to do it again. A few came offers came about and fell through, but then, the one they were waiting for landed in their laps.
Their old bosses, the Ryans, asked them to come back. Nik was a little hesitant, but Ashley leapt at the opportunity.
With kids at home and bills to pay, the Ramirezes needed money. Eventually, Greg offered to let them use one of his and Daisy’s restaurants for a pop-up shop. The only problem was, Nik and Ashley didn’t know what kind
of food to make. Greg said they had to do Thai.
“We lived in Thailand for four years, but I wasn’t cooking Thai food,” Nik said. “What do I know about Thai food?”
He said the menu started out with five dishes—the only Thai food options he knew how to cook at the time.
The pop-up shop was a hit. Ashley and Nik ran it out of Bar Le Côte in Los Olivos every Tuesday night. They had lines around the corner and were selling out of food in two hours.
After 18 years as a chef, Nik said preparing Thai food revived his love for cooking.
He and Ashley ran the pop-up shop for just less than a year. In June 2023, they opened the brick-and-mortar Na Na Thai and haven’t looked back.
“There’s plenty of dishes on our menu that aren’t spicy, but the dishes that are meant to be spicy, we don’t modify,” Ashley said.
THAT’S THEM: Co-owners Ashley and Nik Ramirez opened their brick-and-mortar restaurant, Na Na Thai, a
