bout 100 protesters took their wage demands to the Santa Maria Strawberry Festival on April 27, chanting and holding up signs asking for a $26 minimum wage for farmworkers in Santa Barbara County. Nonprofits that advocate on behalf of farmworkers took that ask to the Board of Supervisors last year, and it spurred the county to look a little closer at farmworker living conditions and housing issues. But nonprofits continue to advocate for a higher minimum wage. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood speaks with protesters and the county about the issue [6]
Also this week, read about what local law enforcement is doing about social media drug sales [4]; Full of Life Flatbread and one local artist raise money for charity through portraits [22]; and cakes that aim to shed light on the restaurant industry’s mental health issues [25]
Camillia Lanham editor
• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) announced on April 25 that he and U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pennsylvania) reintroduced two bipartisan bills focused on addressing the effects of climate change on U.S. coastlines, coastal communities, and marine ecosystems. “The climate crisis is hitting our coasts hard—from eroding beaches and stronger storms to declining fisheries. Regions like the Central Coast are already feeling the impact and need federal support to adapt,” Carbajal stated in a press release. “I’m proud to work with Rep. Fitzpatrick to reintroduce two bipartisan bills that will provide coastal states with the tools they need to study and address the threats to our oceans and fisheries.” The Coastal State Climate Preparedness Act would provide grants to coastal states to help them plan and implement strategies to mitigate climate change, prepare for sea level rise, and address other impacts. The bill would enable states to use these grants for climate change adaptation and to protect infrastructure and coastal ecosystems, according to Carbajal’s office. The Ocean Acidification Research Partnership Act would authorize up to $5 million in research grants for studies on the effects of ocean acidification, which impacts U.S. fishing and tourism industries. Worsening ocean acidification threatens billions of dollars in U.S. economic activity and tens of thousands of U.S. jobs, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) and 41 other senators signed a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. condemning the Trump administration’s attacks on Head Start and demanding a reverse of the mass firing of Head Start staff, Padilla’s office announced in an April 25 statement. The Head Start program currently serves nearly 800,000 children, providing comprehensive services to help children receive health care and insurance, while offering parents job training, education, housing support, and nutrition services. In 2021, California’s Head Start program served more than 82,300 California children—accounting for 10 percent of all children served, according to Padilla’s office. “We write to express our strong opposition to the actions you have taken to directly attack and undermine the federal Head Start program,” the letter to Kennedy stated. “Since Day 1, this administration has taken unacceptable actions to withhold and delay funding, fire Head Start staff, and gut high-quality services for children. Already this year, this administration has withheld almost $1 billion in federal grant funding from Head Start programs, a 37 percent decrease compared to the amount of funding awarded during the same period last year. It is abundantly clear that these actions are part of a broader effort to ultimately eliminate the program altogether, as the administration reportedly plans to do in its fiscal year 2026 budget proposal.” The letter was spearheaded by Sen. Patty Murray (D-Washington), vice chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee; Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP); and Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin), ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies. “The administration has a legal and moral obligation to disburse Head Start funds to programs and to uphold the program’s promise to provide high-quality early education services to low-income children and families across this country,” the letter states. “There is no justifiable reason for the delay in funding we have seen over the last two months, and you have refused to offer any kind of explanation.” m
Law enforcement targets drug sales to minors via social media
Local cannabis compliance detectives flag flame, cloud, and maple leaf emojis when browsing social media platforms.
Keeping up with coded references to cannabis was a crucial component of a six-week investigation that led the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office to arrest Santa Maria resident Alexis Silviano Vazquez Guzman on April 22 on suspicion of selling marijuana to a minor, owning a handgun without a serial number, and other crimes.
County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Raquel Zick told the Sun via email that Instagram was the primary app the department’s Cannabis Compliance Team used to investigate Vazquez Guzman. The team regularly uses Snapchat and Telegram during these types of cases as well, Zick added.
The Cannabis Compliance Team declined the Sun’s request for comment.
According to an April 28 statement from the Sheriff’s Office, detectives believe that Vazquez Guzman, 23, purchased various marijuana products legally with the intent to resell them, “often to minors using social media apps.”
To encourage parents to look out for signs that a child may be using social media to purchase cannabis products, the Sheriff’s Office released a list of slang terms, such as “trees,” “plugs,” “gas,” and “loud,” along with tips on how to intervene early and effectively.
The Santa Maria Police Department recently took on a similar initiative to inform parents of recent youth trends related to drug use and gang activity. In mid-April, the department’s Community Services Unit partnered with the Santa Maria-Bonita School District to host parent forums at local junior high schools.
Santa Maria Police Sgt. Felix Diaz, who leads these ongoing meetings, told the Sun that it’s important for both parents and law enforcement to frequently monitor social media trends because they can change or evolve rapidly.
“Staying ahead of that culture on our end is kind of vital,” said Diaz, who’s worked with the Police Department for 17 years and in its Community Services Unit for the past two years.
Over recent years, Diaz has observed suspected criminals code firearms and drug paraphernalia as “random, different things to try to disguise what they’re doing” on social media.
“Sometimes they’ll refer to guns as toys,” Diaz said. “They’ll [comment], ‘You have the toy?’ Or, “Can I get the toy?’ That kind of stuff.”
During the forums, he sets up a table to display drugs and drug paraphernalia for parents to view
and familiarize themselves with, including vape pens of different brands and flavors. When Vazquez Guzman was arrested, Sheriff’s Office detectives seized more than 1,000 vape pens from his home.
Diaz will lead two more upcoming forums for local parents, on May 1 at Fesler Junior High School and May 6 at Arellanes Junior High School, both from 6 to 8 p.m.
Tammie Castillo-Shiffer, Santa Maria-Bonita School District’s Director of Mulitlingual Services, described the district’s recent collaboration with the Police Department as an effort to “encourage proactive parenting.”
“The forums are built around the belief that ensuring the safety and well-being of students requires strong partnership between families, schools, law enforcement, and the broader community,” Castillo-Shiffer told the Sun via email. “By working together, we can create a supportive network that not only protects young people but also helps them thrive.”
—Caleb Wiseblood
Lompoc Theatre poised to break ground on long-planned renovations
On May 2, the Lompoc Theatre Project will break ground on plans that have been in the works for almost two decades: restoring a historic performance space with the aim of reinvigorating the city’s downtown.
“We are actually doing it, and it’s important for people to be able to see what they’ve invested in and it’s actually working how they want it to,” project
Executive Director Mark Herrier said. “It’s a big deal, and that’s why I wanted to celebrate it. It’s been a long journey.”
Herrier has been part of the nonprofit for about 13 years, he said, first as an advisor, then board member, board president, and most recently as executive director. The estimated more than $10-million project is entering its second phase, which entails construction on the nearly 100-yearold theater—seismically retrofitting the foundation, replacing the roof, moving the land office-turneddressing-room back to its original location, building new dressing rooms and bathrooms, tiling and walling off the courtyard, and rehabilitating and restoring the stage.
“It is a big project, and the only way we can get it done is to break it down into pieces,” Herrier said. “Phase 1 was getting rid of all the mold and asbestos and pigeons and other stuff.”
Costing about $600,000, the first phase cleared out and cleaned up the inside of the theater and paid for architectural plans that could help it move onto the next phases. The project has raised about $2.5 million so far for Phase 2, including $2.29
million from the state and $150,000 in matching funds from the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, Herrier said. Phase 3 will complete the theater remodel.
With the Theatre Project’s concurrent effort to get Lompoc’s theater building and the land use office listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Herrier said he’s pretty confident that the nonprofit will be able to raise the needed money to finish the third phase in the future. Once the buildings receive that designation, Herrier said it will open up millions of dollars in tax credits to put toward the restoration efforts.
The Lompoc Theater opened in 1927 and turns 100 in 2027. If all goes according to plan, the theater will fully open in time for its centennial celebration, he said. The Lompoc Land Office was built in 1874, became a dressing room for the theater in 1929, and will eventually become a cinema boutique and game room to host events and screenings. The aim is to do that during Phase 2.
“We have enough to compete the guts of Phase 2,” Herrier said, adding that the goal is to have the stage accessible and open to the public for events by next February.
“That entire space will become its own black box theater,” he said. “We will be able to see performers on one side of the state and attendees on the other side of the stage.”
The idea is to host small concerts such as the Stone Pine Sessions, which the theater started doing last year with artists like Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Grey DeLisle—just a taste of what the theater could do in the future.
“It’s going to impact the community in ways I don’t think the community understands,” he said. “Nothing transforms an urban core more fast and permanently than restoring a theater downtown. … They’re economic engines.”
The groundbreaking ceremony is open to the public and starts at 10 a.m. on May 2 in the theater’s parking lot, 112 North H. St., with tours of the theater until 11 a.m.
—Camillia Lanham
Residents want Lucia Mar to align with Trump’s trans student orders
A barrage of community members presented the Lucia Mar Unified School District board with a somber choice—snap district policy around transgender students into federal compliance or face the threat of parental rights lawsuits.
But other residents don’t agree with what the group is pushing for.
“I don’t really think what they’re doing helps kids. Just for example, the April 15 meeting, they’re sharing about the new accelerated math program and the new reading screener to help students with learning disabilities,” Lucia Mar parent Virginia Roof told the Sun. “That’s what we should be focusing on, not these culture war issues and following Donald Trump’s executive orders or state law.” Roof is also a representative of the South County Democratic Club of San Luis Obispo County. She told the Sun that Lucia Mar’s April 15 meeting saw an influx of people in opposition to trans kids because of a flyer distributed by Arroyo Grande’s Harvest Church.
The flyer, titled “Culture Impact Chronicles,” identified two transgender students at Lucia Mar schools, one of whom is a trans female athlete.
“This is causing psychological trauma to the girls,” the flyer read. “Girls who identify and actually are girls, or boys as boys are not offered the same private spaces, which exposes the district to Title IX and sexual discrimination lawsuits.” Harvest Church’s flyer called official district policy “immoral and unfair.” It named policies including addressing students by their chosen pronouns; allowing students to access the sports team, restroom, and locker room that conforms to their chosen gender; and needing students’ consent before sharing students’ gender with their parents. The flyer aligns with a larger countywide call
HASH TAG: On April 22, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office arrested 23-year-old Alexis Silviano Vazquez Guzman on suspicion of illicit marijuana sales over social media as well as a weapons violation. Detectives seized a handgun without a serial number, more than 1,000 vape pens, and approximately $37,500 in cash.
issued by the local Moms for Liberty chapter. A pledge issued by the group demands that school districts align their policies with President Trump’s executive orders like “keeping men out of women’s sports” and “defending women from gender ideology extremism and restoring biological truth to the federal government.”
Moms for Liberty also wants school district policy to follow the Title IX regulations enacted by Trump in his first term. Title IX changed under President Biden—including explicit protections for transgender students. Reverting to the 2020 rule under Trump’s second term, Title IX will now enforce protections “on the basis of biological sex in schools and on campuses,” according to the U.S. Department of Education.
Not complying with Moms for Liberty’s demands could mean lower than usual attendance for Lucia Mar as signatories vowed to keep their children home from school in defiance.
“This protest will continue, with our children absent from school for one day each month, until the school districts adhere to federal law, respecting Title IX and executive orders that safeguard the rights of all our children, sons and daughters alike,” the pledge said.
Harvest Church’s flyer, signed off by ministry Director Shannon Kessler, urged people to speak out at upcoming Lucia Mar board meetings. Kessler and Harvest Church didn’t respond to the Sun’s requests for comment.
The South County Democratic Club also called on its supporters to attend future meetings in favor of trans rights.
“Ever since I’ve participated in high school sports, I realized what a privilege it is to be part of a team and represent my school with amazing people,” 10th grader Bibi Shah said at the April
causing ‘psychological trauma,’ but I feel just fine knowing that trans athletes are currently able to show school spirit and participate in our sports.”
In contrast, fellow high school athlete Celeste Duyst cried while recounting a visit to the girl’s locker room. She alleged that a “biological male,” already wearing a track uniform, watched her and other girls undressing. Duyst’s comments caught the attention of Fox News, which featured her in the April 20 Fox and Friends segment.
Lucia Mar board members directed concerned community members to speak with state representatives including U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara).
“Congressman Carbajal stands with the entire LGBTQ-plus community and has opposed anti-LGBTQ-plus bills in the U.S. House of Representatives, including bills that seek to ban trans athletes from participating in women’s and girls’ sports,” Carbajal spokesperson Eduardo Carrizosa told the Sun
In an April 16 letter to local school districts, SLO County Superintendent of Schools James Brescia said that the Senate didn’t proceed with a proposed bill, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, that would have required recognition of sex based only on a person’s reproductive biology and genetics at birth. He added that two Assembly bills—89 and 844—that prioritized students’ sex assigned at birth didn’t pass out of committee. That means the law, Brescia said, currently remains unchanged.
“California’s current law protects gender identity and obligations related to participation in athletics and access to facilities,” he wrote. “The state government provides a significant majority of funding for California schools, and failure to comply with California law may result in the loss of state funding and expose LEAs [local educational
Joseph Nunez, M.D.
Shane Rostermundt,
Fair wages
Protesters ask for higher farmworker pay outside of Santa Maria Fairpark
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
The sounds of shrieking roller coaster riders clashed with protesters’ drums, tambourines, and chants at this year’s Santa Maria Strawberry Festival.
On April 27, community members of various ages gathered outside of Santa Maria Fairpark to rally for a Santa Barbara countywide $26 per hour minimum wage for farmworkers.
Alianza Campesina de la Costa Central, a local farmworkers coalition, organized the rally in collaboration with the Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy’s (CAUSE) and other nonprofits. A crowd of about 100 attended the protest, including Jacinta Cervantes.
“I think it’s important to be part of this moment,” Cervantes told the Sun. “I’ve been here in Santa Maria about 20 years and worked in the fields about 18 years.”
Protest organizers point to the cost of living as one of the reasons they were calling for a $26 wage. A mother of six, Cervantes said she sided with the rally’s aim because a wage increase could help her save some income for her children to pursue higher education. One of her sons is also a fieldworker.
“I want my son to have a better condition. And a better path of getting education,” she said. “I’m very proud to be part of this rally. If we ever get to that point [of a $26 wage], I will feel even more proud of myself to be part of this.”
Cervantes walked about 2 miles to the Fairpark alongside others from the rally’s starting point: CAUSE’s Santa Maria headquarters on South Broadway. The nonprofit also has chapters in Santa Barbara, Ventura, Oxnard, and Santa Paula.
In early 2024, CAUSE partnered with the Mixteco Indígena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) on a report comparing farmworkers’ average wages to those of truck drivers and construction workers based in Santa Barbara County.
CAUSE Santa Maria Senior Policy Advocate Erica Diaz Cervantes said that the three industries share similar statistics related to the risk of death and injury for workers while on duty, which makes the average wage disparity between local farmworkers ($17.42) and truck drivers and construction workers ($26.76 and $25.05, respectively) stand out, according to the report.
“Farm labor wages right now are extremely low compared to those kinds of sectors,” Diaz Cervantes said. “Workers are struggling to pay
for housing; pay for their food; pay for child care; buy the very produce that they pick.”
Diaz Cervantes hopes that events like the April 27 protest and hearings with elected officials help “show the faces behind these numbers” in the report—“Harvesting Dignity: The Case for a Living Wage for Farmworkers.”
In August 2024, several farmworkers cited the report at a Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors meeting and asked for the $26 wage that CAUSE, MICOP, and Alianza Campesina continue to campaign for.
Those requests led 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann and former 1st District Supervisor Das Williams to propose creating an ad hoc advisory committee dedicated to farmworker conditions. Supervisors later voted 5-0 for Hartmann and Williams to serve on a temporary committee but not before hearing backlash against the $26 wage from some farm industry officials.
Santa Maria Fairpark Board President and Santa Barbara County Farm Bureau member Kevin Merrill spoke during the board’s Sept. 10, 2024, meeting and agreed that a committee should be formed to study farmworker living conditions, but he opposed the wage increase.
“If [the board] adopts this $26 proposal, they will not be helping the people they want to, as growers in Santa Barbara County will simply not be able to offer jobs at $26 an hour rate,” Merrill said. “You are opening yourself up to other industries that view themselves as worthy to the increase as well. … Where do we stop when we start going down this road? And why are we penalizing one of the biggest employers in the county?”
The Sun reached out to Merrill for comment about the April 27 rally, but he was unable to speak before press time.
In December 2024, the ad hoc committee concluded that the county should tackle high housing costs and housing shortages impacting farmworkers instead of implementing the $26 wage.
Since then, Hartmann has “continued to engage in efforts to improve farmworker housing opportunities,” Santa Barbara County Public Information Officer Kelsey Gerckens Buttitta told the Sun via email.
Williams lost his bid for reelection last year, but one of his final initiatives on the dais “was to ensure that farmworker housing projects were prioritized on the Planning and Development Department’s work plan,” Gerckens Buttitta added. That plan was adopted 5-0 by the Board of Supervisors during its April 8 meeting.
Claire Wineman, president of the GrowerShipper Association of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties, described the wage
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proposal as “carefully considered and rightly rejected” by county officials.
“Regulating a local minimum wage would cost local farmworkers and others their jobs, and hurt other local businesses, consumers, and the county economy as a whole,” Wineman told the Sun via email. “The county instead focused on other efforts that will positively impact the lives of farmworkers, including housing. … We support focusing on win-win outcomes for our community and protecting a future for agriculture and farmworker jobs in Santa Barbara County.”
CAUSE advocate Diaz Cervantes also called the county’s focus on approving farmworker
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housing projects a win, “but at the same time, it was also a deflection from the larger issue that we’re advocating for.”
“The thing that we’re all trying to express is urgency. Housing developments take years to be able to implement. That is a whole process in itself. It is a small step in the right direction, but it doesn’t meet workers’ needs as of right now,” Diaz Cervantes said. “Even though [the board] didn’t pass an ordinance for a living wage, it is still something that we’re continuing to fight for this year because we know it takes time.” m
Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
MARCH FOR MORE: About 100 people protested outside of the Santa Maria Fairpark on April 27. They called for elected officials to implement a $26 minimum wage for farmworkers across Santa Barbara County.
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Thank you to Bob Nelson & all our amazing sponsors. So many happy smiling faces at yesterday’s egg hunt. We had raffle prizes which included gift cards & basket, courtesy of Law Office of Maribel Aguilera & Subway Sarin Family. Thank you to our amazing OYSA Board for all you do!
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.
Survival ready
County Fire Safe Council holds wildfire evacuation workshop in Lompoc
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Pull the pin. Aim the nozzle. Squeeze the handle. Sweep from side to side. During a fire emergency, PASS is a helpful acronym to keep in mind before using an extinguisher for the first time.
Attendees of an upcoming wildfire evacuation and survival workshop in Lompoc will have access to a fire extinguisher training session, among other scheduled programs at the event on May 31, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Cabrillo High School.
This year marks the Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council’s second time hosting an event of this kind. The nonprofit helmed its first wildfire evacuation and survival workshop in May 2024.
Executive Director Anne-Marie Parkinson told the Sun that one of the workshop’s goals is to familiarize people with ways they can prepare for a fire evacuation emergency ahead of time, like putting together a “go bag” sooner rather than later.
“Say you have 10 minutes to get out. What do you do? What do you grab?” Parkinson said. “[There are] little steps people don’t really think about.”
Someone with a go bag packed and ready beforehand is less likely to forget something crucial, like prescribed medications, than someone who packs a bag quickly on the day of a wildfire emergency, Parkinson said. Suggested items include water bottles, first aid supplies, pet food if you have pets, etc.
To help “incentivize people to be proactive and get that to-do item off their list,” the Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council will host a raffle during the Lompoc workshop. Anyone who brings their own go bag or proof of one via photo can enter, Parkinson explained.
Multiple winners will be drawn during the raffle, she added.
“We’re going to do a handful of prizes,” Parkinson said. “We have 100 percent wool blankets, fire extinguishers, utility wrenches.”
Another important go bag consideration is whether to store important documents, like passports and birth certificates, in a single bag or not. Many would rather keep those filed elsewhere,
Parkinson said, or backed up digitally in case the physical documents become lost in a house fire.
There will be a digital scanner at the Lompoc workshop for attendees to use if they’d like to scan any documents or cherished family photographs for digital copies.
“We’ll actually digitize all that for them right then and there,” Parkinson said.
With presentations from participating fire experts, the workshop will address various topics related to wildfire evacuation, which Parkinson has firsthand experience with.
In 2007, she and her family vacated their home in San Diego during the Witch Creek Fire.
“I remember a couple of days before it impacted our house, there was smoke in the distance, and thinking, ‘Oh that’s so far away, it doesn’t matter.’ And then we got a call at 2 in the morning to evacuate,” recalled Parkinson, who was 13 at the time.
While staying with relatives, she sat “in front of the TV for days on end, just hoping to get some glimpse; some piece of information, … ‘Is my house there or not?’”
“Not knowing that is so anxiety inducing,” said Parkinson, whose home was intact when her family eventually returned.
“It was fortunate we didn’t have our entire neighborhood burned down. Our immediate neighbors lost their house,” she said. “I almost feel a little bit of guilt sometimes. Why did mine survive but theirs didn’t? Why did they lose everything but we didn’t?”
Highlight
• In mid-April, the Santa Maria High School Associated Student Body received the Outstanding Leadership Program Award during the California Association of Student Leaders (CASL) Conference in Santa Clara. The leadership program award was designed to honor schools across California that cultivate student leadership programs, while “fostering ethical, responsible, and servant-minded leaders,” according to press materials. m
Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood can be reached at cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.
SAFETY FIRST: In May 2024, Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council Executive Director Anne-Marie Parkinson (onstage) was among the featured speakers at the nonprofit’s first wildfire evacuation and survival workshop at Santa Barbara City College. This year’s event will be held at Cabrillo High School in Lompoc.
Special Education Students born 2000!
All records for any Special Education student that was born within the year 2000 and attended a Santa Maria Joint Union High School District school, your physical special education records are available for pick up at no charge from the District Office. All 2000 not picked up by June 1, 2025 will be destroyed.
If you have any questions, or to arrange a pickup date/time, contact:
Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. of Special Education
Santa Maria Joint Union High School District 2560 Skyway Dr. Santa Maria, CA 93455
805-922-4573 ext. 4311
ATENCION estudiantes anteriores de SMJUHSD nacidos en 2000!
Todos los registros de cualquier estudiante de Educación Especial que haya nacido dentro del año 2000 y asistió a una escuela del Distrito Escolar de las escuelas preparatorias de Santa Maria, sus registros físicos de educación especial están disponibles para recoger sin cargo en la Oficina del Distrito. Todos los registros del 2000 que no hayan sido recogidos para el 1 de junio de 2025 serán destruidos.
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 ATTENTION
Si tiene alguna pregunta, o para programar una fecha/hora de recogida, comuníquense con:
Sandra Hernandez/ Dept. of Special Education
Santa Maria Joint Union High School District
2560 Skyway Dr. Santa Maria, CA 93455
805-922-4573 ext. 4311
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)
Do battery energy storage facilities belong in Santa Maria?
28% Yes. Santa Maria deserves a greener future.
24% Absolutely not, especially after the January fire at Moss Landing.
24% Maybe someday, after Santa Maria annexes more land suitable for battery plants.
24% The only battery I trust powers a pink bunny with a bass drum. 17 Votes
Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.
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Lompoc should work around high-use seasons when planning repairs
BY RON FINK
Lompoc parks renovation projects seem to interfere with team sports and major park events. Something needs to change to favor the schedule of teams and events during highuse seasons and conduct these projects in the off season.
The youth baseball leagues in Lompoc, and almost everywhere else, spend a lot of time and money helping to maintain their ballfields that are on city property. Their work includes stripping the field, filling the ever-present gopher holes, painting the scorekeeping box, maintaining the concession stands, and cleaning up when the games are finished.
To use the fields, teams must pay between $12.50 to $30 an hour each hour they use the venue every season. To gather enough to pay for the rentals and the materials needed for maintenance, they operate concession stands and parents pay a small amount when they enroll their kids in a league.
The concession stands were constructed, largely with volunteer labor recruited from the various teams, decades ago and needed some serious renovation. Parks and Recreation acquired funding for the project and presented it to the City Council for approval; one item caught the eye of council members—the project would be underway during the baseball season.
This meant that for one full season, the leagues would lose their only source of income, and parents attending games wouldn’t be able to gobble down hot dogs or slurp sodas while cheering their youngsters on.
Another project is the renovation of Ryon Park walkways primarily to bring them up to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. These standards have been in place for several decades, so one has to ask, “Why has it taken so long to make the park accessible to everyone?”
They are also going to upgrade/replace the food truck parking pads and install utilities to support vendors.
The contract stipulates completion of the
project by May 30, just two weeks prior to the start of the Flower Festival. As I recall, it takes the Flower Festival Association more than a week to prepare the park for vendors and visitors and a few days for the carnival to set up its attractions. All this preparation requires the use of walkways and movement of vehicles throughout the park; any construction slip would impact their efforts.
Just replacing sidewalks sounds easy, but concrete takes time to cure before foot or vehicle traffic can use it.
The council, and particularly Councilman Steve Bridge, was concerned that any hiccup during this project would impact one of the largest and most popular events held in Lompoc each year. Ultimately the council voted to approve the project; however, they added a stipulation that the work be stopped and the park ready for use two weeks prior to the Flower Festival.
Councilman Bridge was also concerned that this item was being brought to the council at the “last minute” after the finance director stated that these funds must be spent prior to the end of the fiscal year (June 30), so approval was needed at this meeting.
Any reasonable person would ask the same question, but I have been watching council activities for about 30 years, and last-minute project approvals have been a common occurrence.
Public projects in high-use areas require special attention to the needs of the community; it is unreasonable to plan a project at the height of the festival or youth baseball season and not expect community concern.
And waiting until the eleventh hour to present a project for approval doesn’t allow the council enough time to examine the details of a project or make any meaningful changes. The two projects discussed here are perfect examples of a planning process that needs improvement. m
Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.
Trump, Musk are destroying our government
I sat down a few minutes ago and brainstormed the likely near-term consequences of the public’s inability to reverse the Trump/ Musk administration’s virtual destruction of our government and the cessation of our constitutional rights.
I regret to say that none of this is hyperbole. The catastrophic implications of our current situation are as follows:
• Without Social Security, tens of millions of our elderly and disabled citizens will end up on our streets. Our homeless situation will be many times worse than it is presently.
• Without Medicaid, tens of millions of our sick, elderly, and infirm citizens will end up in emergency care in our hospitals and the resulting lack of capacity will de facto bar emergency care access to most other Americans. Caregivers along with many former Medicaid recipients will turn up in the streets due to lack of income.
• Without freedom of speech and the right to privacy, millions of Americans will be discontinuing the use of the internet and/or the use of social media for fear that they will be deported or worse. Vigilantism will abound when neighbors report on neighbors “badmouthing” corruption and/or government dysfunction.
• Because of the massive layoffs within our federal government, thousands of scientists and medical doctors will either end up being unemployed (adding to our homeless population) or will be lured into taking job offers beyond our borders resulting in a national “brain drain” and the corresponding decline in economic competitiveness.
• The current debunking of the climate and health sciences will lead to the increasing proliferation of freakish, life-threatening weather events and deadly worldwide pandemics.
• The current unbridled and chaotic results of an autocratic government (e.g., on-again, off-again tariffs) will result in an economic depression for our nation and for the world as a whole.
• Freedom of the press will cease to exist, resulting in an increase in the passivity, gullibility, and ignorance of the American public.
• The imminent decline in public education will also result in an increase in the passivity, gullibility, and ignorance of the American public and a rapid decline in our quality of life.
• Economic isolationism resulting in stagflation will reduce our quality of life by limiting the goods and services available to us. A poor economy will lead to massive unemployment and, again, a steep rise in our homeless population.
• Mass deportation of our front-line service professionals along with punishing tariffs will reduce our agricultural output, put farmers out of business thereby increasing hunger both here and abroad. This will also result in an increase in the costs and slow down the rate of construction, thereby putting more housing out of reach to the general public.
• The wealth of our nation (or what’s left of it) will be usurped by oligarchs and, like Russia, our government will be transformed into a criminal organization equipped with its own military and supported by legions of espionage/ surveillance “apparatchiks.”
The only positive spin on all of this is that, in spite of robust efforts by the Republican party to undermine voter participation as well as overturn election results, the Democrats might still win back the House and/or the Senate come November 2026.
Allan Cooper San Luis Obispo
MAYFIELD
Should transgender students be able to use the bathrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identities? Should trans women be able to compete in women’s athletics?
These are complicated questions that we have been struggling to navigate and answer over the past several years, and we’ve made progress and gained a more complete understanding of the issues surrounding this complicated topic, but now thanks to Trump’s culture war against DEI programs, we seem to be moving backward. It started building over the last couple of years, but now it feels like the train is hurtling without any sort of brake in place.
At the April 15 Lucia Mar Unified School District board meeting, people showed up to argue in favor of and against trans rights. Why? Was there something on the agenda about it? That would be a negatory, good buddy.
They were there thanks to a flyer purportedly distributed by Arroyo Grande’s Harvest Church and signed off by Shannon Kessler, director of culture impact, complaining that a trans female track athlete used the women’s locker room. This is the same church that sent out questionnaires to school board and city council candidates asking questions about their stances on same sex marriage, abortion, and transgender issues.
Obviously, this church has a political point of view, and it’s using that point of view to target two students out of the thousands that populate that entire school district. Slow clap for the Harvest Church!
Sounds like someone needs to look at that church’s tax-exempt status. Although, with the
IRS in shambles and President Donald Trump more likely to call me anti-Christian instead of calling out the church for stepping over the political line, the Harvest Church is safe!
But I digress. This is a complex, nuanced, sensitive issue. And apparently traumatized high school student Celeste Duyst wept during public comment as she recounted the “biological male” being in her presence in the locker room. I just don’t know what to say about the situation. It sounds rough for everyone involved. But I do know that Duyst later turned up on Fox & Friends Weekend of course—to recount her story. Which makes me feel like it was all just a political stunt.
Trump’s culture war rages on.
The national momentum to other everyone who isn’t like you will continue to push us apart rather than together.
And little Celeste Duyst got to recount her story on national television so Fox could cash in on a community’s conflict. Awesome!
Current California State Law allows students to use the facilities that align with their gender identity, in direct conflict with Trump’s executive order. And obviously, that’s exactly what that order was meant to do. It was meant to create more conflict, oversimplify a complex and personal issue, not lay the groundwork for our society to come together. “Bathrooms” is the trigger word for conservatives. But it oversimplifies the complexities of being trans. Shouldn’t we be having more complex conversations about the policy responses to the conflict we have in society? We shouldn’t allow the extreme voices to control the conversation. But we do, and here we are.
The culture war deepens. m
The Canary is disappointed and sad. Send joy to canary@santamariasun.com.
Hot Stuff
ARTS
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
ALLAN HANCOCK COLLEGE STUDENT
FILM FESTIVAL
Enjoy a showcase of documentaries and short films produced in the AHC Film program. Get tickets and more info at the link. May 2 7-10 p.m. $5. Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.
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/.
FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17
Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
GIAFUNNI’S COMEDY Curtis Cook is set to headline an evening of hilarious standup comedy at Giovanni’s. Enjoy a night of laughs and great pizza deals. May 3 7:30-9 p.m. $15. (805) 621-4334. Giovanni’s Pizza, 1108 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, beachboardwalkers.org.
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. May 9 -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.
WAITRESS This show deliciously serves up a heartfelt story of love, liberation, and the pursuit of dreams. Thursdays-Sundays, 7-9:30 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, 1:303:30 p.m. through May 11 Starting at $25. (805) 922 - 8313. pcpa.org/events/waitress. PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
DON LOUIS PERCEVAL: HIS VISION OF THE WEST Celebrate the opening of the latest exhibition, Don Louis Perceval: His Vision of the West. May 1 , 5-8 p.m. Free. (805) 966-1601. sbhistorical.org/events/. Santa Barbara Historical Museum, 136 E. De La Guerra Street, Santa Barbara.
GALLERY LOS OLIVOS SPECIAL ARTIST SHOWS MONTHLY Head to Gallery Los Olivos for monthly featured artist exhibits from April to the end of June. See work from artists Patti Robbins, Terri Tabor, Carol Talley, Morgan Green, and Susan Kounanis. Get more info at the link. 1st of every month, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Sept. 30 (805) 6887517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.
MOTHER’S DAY FLORAL-AMBER
NATURAL PERFUME-MAKING
WORKSHOP Celebrate mom with a natural perfume-making experience. Tickets and info at the link. May 11 1-4 p.m. $150. Strange Family Vineyards Tasting Room,
2933 Grand Avenue, Los Olivos, (805) 315-3662, strangefamilyvineyards.com/ visit-us/tasting-room.
MOTHER’S DAY PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT SUNSTONE WINERY
Sunstone Winery invites you to indulge in wine while dipping your paintbrush into paint and onto a canvas. Visit site for more information to this Mother’s Day session. May 11 , 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $89. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Sunstone Winery, 125 N. Refugio Road, Santa Ynez.
MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND
WATERCOLOR IN THE VINEYARD AT KOEHLER If you are looking for something unique to do for Mother’s Day in the Santa Barbara County, Koehler Winery welcomes you. Visit link for tickets and more info. May 10 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $89. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Koehler Winery, 5360 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos, 93441, United States, Los Olivos.
WATERCOLOR IN THE VINEYARD AT BUTTONWOOD FARM AND VINEYARD
Head to Buttonwood Farm and Vineyard in Santa Barbara County to revel in the picturesque views and enjoy a variety of wines. May 3 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $89. (805) 3258092. artspotonwheels.com. Buttonwood Farm & Vineyard, 1500 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang, 93463, Solvang.
YOSEMITE: SANCTUARY IN STONE A solo exhibition by award-winning nature and landscape photographer William Neill. Through Sept. 1 California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang, calnatureartmuseum.org.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway,
MOTHER’S DAY REGGAE
The Mother’s Day Reggae Fest is set for Sunday, May 11, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Crooked Path in Los Olivos. Ras Danny and the Reggae All-Stars will deliver authentic Jamaican reggae roots music, along with local talent SoulFyah. Tribal and fusion belly dancers Black Dragon Tribal and Krischana Tribal Fusion Diva are also set to perform. Visit my805tix.com for more info.
—Angie Stevens
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.
DISNEY’S FROZEN JR. Presented by Coastal Christian School. May 3 , 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. and May 4 , 2-4 p.m. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ccs-frozen-jr/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
LESS MISERABLE A spoof of one of the most beloved musicals of all time. May 2June 14 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
SECOND SATURDAY IMPROV MEETUP
Have you ever wanted to try improv? Or are you an experienced player looking for opportunities to practice? Join to play short-form games and share smiles in the supportive environment of improv. Second Saturday of every month, 2-4 p.m. through Dec. 13 improvforgood.fun/. Flex Performing Arts Studio (Studio D), 1820 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA
Check the venue’s calendar for storytelling workshops, lectures, movie nights, and discussions held on a periodic basis. ongoing thelavra.org/home. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ART AFTER DARK Art After Dark features an art opening of world-class artists. Refreshments will be served. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. through March 7 Free. slocountyarts.org/art-after-dark. SLO County, Various locations countywide, 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.
BYO CRAFT NIGHT All are welcome to gather with other like-minded crafty folks. Get more info at the link. May 6 6-8 p.m. Free. (714) 336-5768. m.facebook.com/gro ups/876399651120300/?ref=share&mibex
tid=wwXIfr. Unitarian Universalist Church, 2201 Lawton Ave., San Luis Obispo.
CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/ foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/babyhandprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CUESTA COLLEGE’S ANNUAL STUDENT
ART EXHIBIT A showcase to highlight students’ ceramics, drawings, digital art, photography, and other media. Through May 16 cuesta.edu. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-3202.
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 8 7:30 p.m., May 9 7:30 p.m., May 10, 7:30 p.m. and May 11, 2 p.m. $27 general; $20 student with ID. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece. Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
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.
FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP: LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
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. 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.
SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age. Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL The triumphant story of the Queen of Rock and Roll set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits. Witness Turner’s journey against all odds to become one of the world’s most beloved artists of all time. May 7 7:30 p.m. and May 8, 7:30 p.m. Starts at $77. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., 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 CRUISING CAR SHOW PAINTING PARTY Enjoy an afternoon of art and community at this painting event. Get tickets and more info at the link. May 3 2 p.m. $60. my805tix.com. Lor Coaching Studio & Gallery, 525 Harbor St., 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. 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.
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.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
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, 7 p.m. Free. (805) 934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria.
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.
FEEL GOOD YOGA
Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. 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. ongoing (805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.
PAINT AND CONNECT
Spend Mother’s Day at Sunstone Winery in Santa Ynez, sipping wine and painting the area’s sprawling landscapes. The art session will occur on May 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are available for $89, and details can be found at artspotonwheels.com.
SATURDAY CRAFTERNOON: STAR
LAURUS COLLEGE FIRST EVER POP-UP EVENT Join for a pop-up event featuring local vendors, food, live entertainment, and more in a fiesta-style atmosphere. May 3 12-4 p.m. Free. facebook.com/ events/s/laurus-college-pop-up-event /849784670666365/?mibextid=wwXIfr. Laurus College, 421 E Betteravia Rd Ste 100, Santa Maria, (805) 267-1690.
WARS “METEOROIDS” Celebrate May the Fourth by making Darth Vader or Baby Yoda meteoroids. This workshop is free, and materials will be included. Registration is required for this 18 and older event. May 3 , 12-1:30 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: CALIFORNIA NATURE ART MUSEUM
Enjoy an afternoon filled with spring-fresh food and beverages, award-winning wines,
presentations, and a live music auction and artist demonstration. May 4 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $150. calnatureartmuseum. org. Vincent Vineyards, 2370 N Refugio Rd, Santa Ynez, CA 93460, Santa Ynez, (805) 691-4200.
CHUMASH EARTH DAY The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians’ Environmental Department will host its annual Chumash Earth Day. This family-fun day will include educational booths, arts and crafts, clothing swaps, local food trucks, and a special appearance from Smokey Bear. More information at the link. May 3, 10 a.m.2 p.m. Free. syceo.org/earthday. Kitiyepumu’ Park, 100 Via Juana Road, Santa Ynez.
MOTHER’S DAY FLORALAMBER NATURAL PERFUMEMAKING WORKSHOP Join this hands-on workshop to create a signature fragrance, focused on a floral, amber theme for Mother’s Day. May 11, 1-4 p.m. $150. solaromatics.com. Strange Family Vineyard Tasting Room, 2933 Grand Ave, Los Olivos, (805) 315-3662.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
LOMPOC ART WALK Lompoc transforms into a celebration and showcase of local artists during this monthly event, which features live music, art, exciting exhibitions, performances, and a variety of unique vendors. First Thursday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Old Town Lompoc, H and I St., Lompoc.
THE VILLAGE TREASURE
CHEST This event is for the whole family. There will be vendors selling their wears, music, facepainting, and some kind of food booth. Come out and spend part of your Saturday supporting local vendors. First Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Vandenberg Village Community Services District Office, 3745 Constellation Road, Lompoc, (805) 291-6370.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. (970) 710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.
COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks including pathways maintenance, litter patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, 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. 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. MARC ABRAHAMS SPEAKING ABOUT HUMOR IN SCIENCE Marc Abrahams, mathematician and science editor, will highlight the funniest of the Ig Nobel awards and reflect on a career that honors scientific achievements through humor. May 3 1-3 p.m. Free. (805) 9627653. lospadresacs.org. Santa Barbara Central Library’s Faulkner Gallery, 40 East Anapamu Sreet, Santa Barbara.
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. 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
CULTURE
overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. pismobeach.org.
Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.
QI GONG: MINDFUL MOVEMENTS
FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE
ENERGY Balance your mind, body, and spirit with Qi Gong — gentle stretching and strengthening movements that promotes physical wellbeing and inner peace. This is geared towards all fitness levels and ages. Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach.
SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details.
Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. (805) 904-6615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.
AWAKEN THE WILD FEMININE: BELTANE FIRE CEREMONY
Celebrate Beltane, the cross-quarter day between Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. Participants will be guided through a fire ceremony of sacred release and awakening. Visit the link for more information. May 4 5-8 p.m. $55. my805tix.com. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., 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.
THE SECRET TO LIFE
Author and environmental activist Robin Greenfield is set to speak about his 1,600-mile walk from Canada to Los Angeles at The Bunker SLO on Thursday, May 8, from 7 to 9 p.m. Greenfield’s campaigns for simple living and non-ownership work to question societal norms and generate conversations on new ways forward. Visit syceo.org for more information.
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.
LAW ENFORCEMENT NIGHT AT THE DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS’ MARKET Law Enforcement Night is a free, family-friendly event, open to the public. Children will be able to engage in interactive educational demonstrations and test out equipment. May 8 6-8 p.m. Free. downtownslo.com/do/ law-enforcement-night-at-thedowntown-slo-farmers-market. San Luis Obispo Farmers Market, Broad and Higuera, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-0286.
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. MEET AUTHOR AND ACTIVIST
ROBIN GREENFIELD Author and eco-activist Robin Greenfield will speak about his 1,600 mile walk from Canada to Los Angeles. He will also cover topics including nonownership and living without money. May 8 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 548-0597. ecologistics.org/. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, 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.
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.
CAL POLY CAT PROGRAM’S ADOPT-AKITTY Join to meet countless kitties in need of loving homes and make sure you find your purrrfect match. May 3 , 10 a.m.-3 p.m. HumanKind Fair Trade, 974 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 594-1220.
CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:30-11:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo.
CLAUDIA DE LA CRUZ: BEYOND THE BALLOT, BUILDING PEOPLE POWER THROUGH ORGANIZED STRUGGLE Hear Claudia De la Cruz share an analysis of ruling class democracy, and explain how it works against the people. She will also share strategies for building local power through organized struggle. Get more info at the link. May 4 6-7 p.m. (805) 317-6661. facebook.com/events/1618757575423681/. Unitarian Universalist Church, 2201 Lawton Ave., 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.
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY Grab free comics, discover new favorites, and celebrate your fandom at this one-day event. May 3 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 544-6366. facebook.com/events/1078337894328658.
Captain Nemo Games, 565 Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo.
FREE QPR SUICIDE PREVENTION TRAINING Learn to question, persuade, and refer—three steps that can save a life. Free virtual training for parents, educators, and community members. Registration required. May 9 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 7701593. youthwell.org/mental-health-firstaid. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and about the development of this area. Tours, led by docents, are free at 1:15 p.m Monday through Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Sundays, 2-3 p.m. and MondaysSaturdays, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Free. (657) 4659182. missionsanluisobispo.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
PARENT ALLIES Parent Allies of LGBTQIA+ youth, ages 10 to 18 are invited to process feelings and learn to support your child. Get more info at the link. May 5 5-6 p.m. Free. (805) 770-1593. youthwell.org/groups. Online, See website, 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.
SIP ‘N’ SAUNTER 2025 Head to downtown SLO to get a taste of the local wineries, beverage providers, restaurants, and caterers from around the county. Enjoy live music and discover the unique retailers at the same time. Get tickets and more info at the link. May 4 1 p.m. $72. downtownslo.com/events/sip-n-saunter.
Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.
FREE VIRTUAL QPR SUICIDE PREVENTION TRAINING For participants to learn about community resources in Santa Barbara County and be able to recognize the warning signs of suicide for parents and adults (ages 18 and over) who work or live with youth between ages of 12-18. Offered in partnership with Family Services Agency of Santa Barbara and thanks to a grant from SAMHSA. May 9 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 770-1593. youthwell. org/mental-health-first-aid. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
FUNDRAISER: SPRING SALE IN THE GARDEN Joint his fundraiser, supported by the Central Coast Women’s League (CCWL), to benefit SLO charities. Decorative art, jewelry, vintage items, clothing, and plants will be for sale. May 3 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 539-9374. Central Coast Women’s League, 1720 San Luis Drive, San Luis Obispo, none.
HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT
GROUP A safe place to share feelings of depression with those who suffer and
SLO CONNECTED: CREATING AWARENESS TOGETHER Experience stories of resilience and hope through a day filled with storytelling. An art display will feature works by incarcerated artists, and a silent auction will be held. May 10 3-7 p.m. $75-$100. thekidcat.org/ sloconnected. Private Residence (SLO), Address will be sent with ticket purchase, San Luis Obispo, Private Phone Number.
SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY Stamp Collector? The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets in the SLO UMC Conference Room on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors welcome. For more info, contact SLOPS at slostampclub@gmail. com. First Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. (805) 801-9112. The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets at the SLO Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors are welcome. First Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 540-9484, slocity.org/seniors.
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.
SLO SKIERS MONTHLY MEETING SLO
Skiers is a local sports and social club for adults. Stop by for a social hour with food and drink, followed by the meeting at 6:30 p.m. May 6 Free. sloskiers.org. SLO Skiers, a sports and social club for adults, will host its monthly meeting, preceded by a social hour with food and drink. First Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. through Dec. 2 Free; yearly membership $65. (805) 5283194. sloskiers.org. Milestone Tavern, 972 Foothill Blvd., San Luis Obispo.
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 outdoor class which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email before attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.
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.
TEACH WELL Teach Well teachers get support and learn strategies for building trusting student relationships. Get more information about the event at the link. May 1 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. (805) 770-1593. youthwell.org/groups. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
A variety of participating retailers, along with restaurants and caterers, will serve samples and small bites. Visit downtownslo.com to get tickets and more information about participating retail locations.
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.
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.
LOS ALAMOS A carefully curated open air artisan and farm market. Features great vintage finds, handwoven and hand dyed textiles, hand-spun yarn, organic body care products, and locally grown organic eats. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 722-4338.
Join to expand your knowledge of the fermentation process and get started fermenting at home. We alternate between demonstration and hands-on classes. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30-$50. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. New topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home. Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 8016627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.
CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Second Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.
TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.
BAY CAR SHOW Visit site for info on registration and the show’s lineup of events. Registration is limited. Participants encouraged to secure their spots early. May 2 and May 3 my805tix.com. Downtown Morro Bay, Inquire for address, Morro Bay.
FOOD
& DRINK
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.
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/.
Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.
SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.
TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check
Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/ orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO
TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head
Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE PRESENTS
A MOTHER’S DAY TEA PARTY Enjoy Mother’s Day with loved ones. Features delicious tea snacks, drinks, crafts, music, photo ops, and other fun activities. May 11 1:30-4 p.m. $50 per couple. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/catalog. Historical Society Heritage Garden, 126 S. Mason St., Arroyo Grande.
DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET
Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo. MOTHER’S DAY TEA AT THE DALLIDET Celebrate daughters, mothers, grandmothers over tea. Get more info at the link. May 10, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $50 adults, $15 children. (805) 543-0638. historycenterslo.org/tea. Celebrate daughters, mothers, and grandmothers by experiencing this great British tradition. May 10 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $50 adults, $15 children. (805) 543-0638. historycenterslo. org/tea. Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, 1185 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo. SIP ‘N’ SAUNTER DOWNTOWN SLO Local wineries, beverage providers, restaurants, and caterers from around SLO County will serve tastings and small bites at downtown retail locations. Get more information at the link. May 4 , 1-4 p.m. $80-$90. Downtown San Luis Obispo, Corner of Santa Rosa and Pacific St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 549-0355.
MUSIC
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS 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. JAMES BOND “SENIOR” PROM Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens and Kiwanis Clubs present “Senior Prom: James Bond” Hear live performances from Riptide Big Band vocalists Bob Nations and Mitch Latting. May 3 , 1:30-4 p.m. Free. (775) 8135186. RiptideBB.com. Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens and Kiwanis Clubs present James Bond “Senior” Prom with
Hot Stuff
MUSIC from page 18
Varies according to food options. (805) 623-5129. stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 623-5129, stellerscellar.com.
MOTHER’S DAY REGGAE FEST Mother’s day Reggae fest will bring authentic Jamaican reggae roots music, featuring SoulFyah. Santa Maria-based dance troupe Black Dragon Tribal will perform along with Krischana Tribal Fusion Diva. Shopping, henna, food, and drink will be available. May 11 1-5 p.m. $15. (805) 806-0287. my805tix.com. Crooked Path, 2885 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.
MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria. PRETTY IN PINK ‘80S PROM AT PRESQU’ILE WINERY Get ready for an ‘80s-themed prom night with The Molly Ringwald Project, featuring live music, wine, food trucks, and retro fun under the stars. May 10 6-9 p.m. $25. (805) 937-8110. presquilewine.com/events/prettyinpinkprom/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria.
SEASON CONCERT: THE SACRED & THE PROFANE The Santa Maria Philharmonic Orchestra and Maestro Michael Nowak will welcome a guest ensemble to close out the 2024-25 concert season. May 3 7:30-9:30 p.m. $50. (805) 925-0412. Grace Baptist Church, 605 E. McCoy Ln., Santa Maria. SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866. SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
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.
NO PASSPORT REQUIRED Enjoy an afternoon of choral music with the whole family. Live music from around the world will feature the Youth Chorale and guest instrumentalists. May 3 , 3-4:15 p.m. $20. (805) 588-7204. lvmasterchorale.org. First United Methodist Church, 925 North F St., Lompoc. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
HR ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS MARIACHI LOS GALLEROS Hailed as “the most beloved Mariachi in Mexico,” continues its legacy under Danny Rey, bringing the spirit of Mexican music to audiences worldwide. May 4 , 8-10 p.m. $45-$65; Platinum $75. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/mariachi-los-galleros/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
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.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
CAL POLY CELLO ENSEMBLE CONCERT: CELLO ROMANZA
Cal Poly’s Cello Ensemble will perform a wide range of works, from classical to arrangements of songs by Lada Gaga and Queen. May 3 2 p.m. Free. (805) 756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/ calendar/special/. San Luis Obispo United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.
CAL POLY CELLO FEST: MEGAN CHARTIER FACULTY RECITAL: “IN SEARCH OF LIGHT” Chartier will present a solo recital with works by Max Reger, Rudolf Matz, Ernst Bloch, and Music Department faculty member Aaron Kline. May 4 2 p.m. Free. (805) 756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/special/. Temple Ner Shalom, 875 Laureate Lane, San Luis Obispo. CHEZILE: WISH YOU WERE HERE TOUR WITH SPECIAL GUEST VALLEY BOY Hear American singer-songwriter and producer Alejandro Sanchez live, who is better known professionally as Chezile. He’s set to hit the Slo Brew Rock stage and deliver a performance of jazz, soul, and indie sounds. Get tickets and more info at the link. May 4 7 p.m. $28. slobrew.com/. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843. m
Entry Period is April 24–May 12 by 5pm
Carl Sepulveda, 2024
Dan Baum, 2024
Andy Samerasena, 2024
Heather Shultz, 2024
Wayne Angeloty, 2024
Lance Wilson, 2024
ARTS BRIEFS
Santa Barbara County wraps up Battle of the Books
More than 250 fourth- through eighth-grade students participated in the 24th annual Santa Barbara County Education Office’s Battle of the Books.
Participating elementary and junior high school students prepare for the year-round event by reading and often re-reading books from a designated list, according to the Education Office. They then battle against other teams to test their knowledge with trivia questions about plot, characters, and theme.
This year, students were quizzed on 26 different titles, including Nic Stone’s Fast Pitch; Dawn Quigley’s Jo Jo Makoons: The Used-To-Be-Best Friend; and Kate DiCamillo’s The Magician’s Elephant First place went to The Aluminum Pie Comets in Santa Maria’s battle. Students on the winning team were from Bill Libbon, Rice, and Tunnell elementary schools in the Santa Maria-Bonita School District; Manzanita Charter School in the Lompoc Unified School District; and Oak Valley Elementary in the Buellton Union School District.
“Congratulations to the winning teams and all the participants in this year’s Battle of the Books! It’s such an inspiration to see the level of preparation and teamwork these students bring to the event,” county Superintendent of Schools Susan Salcido said in a press release. “It is a joy seeing the students’ love of reading on full display during this cross-county friendly battle.”
The county is hosting a Spanish language Battle of the Books on May 6. The reading lists for next year’s battles will be released in late May at sbceo.org/battle.
Painted Chair Raffle
benefitting library runs through May 10
The second floor of the Santa Maria Town Center Mall will display book-themed artistic items from local artists through May 10 for the Friends of the Santa Maria Public Library’s annual Painted Chair Raffle.
Items include furniture, quilts, paintings, and more.
The fundraiser benefits the Santa Maria Public Library. Raffle tickets are available for purchase, one for $1 or six for $5, and drawings will take place on May 10 at 4 p.m.
“We are extremely grateful to our local artists who donate their creations and to the businesses and community members who provide donations and sponsorships in support
of the event,” a Friends press release said.
Established more than
Meaningful masterpieces
Local artist debuts new portraits and abstract series benefiting charities at Full of Life Flatbread
BY EMMA MONTALBANO
While local artist Elizabeth Chaney considers herself quiet and introverted, she described her art as the opposite.
“My art is my voice, and it’s very loud,” Chaney said.
She specializes in portraiture, painting images of celebrities like Paul Reubens and Madonna and political figures like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. At the beginning of April, she hung new paintings on a wall dedicated to her artwork at Full of Life Flatbread in Los Alamos.
Her relationship with the owner of the restaurant, Clark Staub, started in 2018, following the death of the famous chef Anthony Bourdain. Staub organized a tribute to Bourdain and a suicide prevention fundraiser at the restaurant, and Chaney, inspired by Bourdain, requested to hang a portrait she had painted of him, offering to donate some of the proceeds from its sale to suicide prevention efforts.
“[Bourdain] was a storyteller, in a way, and I consider myself a storyteller,” Chaney explained. “I feel like he wasn’t afraid to break the rules. It was more important to him to just break bread with people of different cultures, and I admired that approach.”
For the last several years, Chaney has continued to hang paintings on the wall at Full of Life Flatbread, donating a portion of the proceeds to different charities. For the new
series she hung, she will donate 10 percent of each sale to one of five charities selected by the buyer: Planned Parenthood, National Park Service, World Central Kitchen, International Rescue Committee, and Suicide Prevention Alliance.
“It’s always just things that I stand firmly on, and I just really want to make a difference,” she emphasized. “Those five charities are things that are really important to me.”
Her new series features portraits of Zelenskyy, Christopher Walken, and Staub, as well as some abstract landscape work. Staub said that he was “blown away” when he first saw his own portrait and laughed while explaining the challenge of having a painting of himself in his restaurant.
“If I don’t hang it in the restaurant, then she’s going to take offense to that, and if I do hang it, people are going to think I’m totally full of myself,” he said. “Fortunately, it’s worked out.”
When choosing a person to paint, Chaney thinks about current events, major figures, and the stories of people who stand out to her.
“The person has to have an interesting face, and the story is what compels me to paint,” she explained. “It’s just something that I have to be moved by that person or the story in order for the painting to come out good.”
Sometimes, she leans toward more controversial figures, and with that comes varied responses from the public.
“For the negative comments or
Peep the portraits
To find Elizabeth
and abstracts,
including
the really mean comments, I realize art is meant to evoke emotion, and so, I feel I’m doing my job if I evoke some sort of emotion from some person,” Chaney said.
Before painting someone, she explained that she starts by doing a lot of research on the person to get a better understanding of their backstory.
“The more information I have about that person, it really helps me illustrate their story,” she said. “For me, when I do a portrait, I need to have tons of pictures of that person from every angle and different ages and this and that, and then I can really gather the true essence of them as a person.”
Chaney explained that because she puts so much time and thought into creating a portrait of someone, she usually “allows” herself to paint
an abstract next. The process of doing an abstract is much more “loose” and “free” compared to the process of a portrait.
“My abstracts are pure passion,” she said. “It just comes from my soul, and I don’t usually have any reference. It just comes out of my heart, and it’s just really rewarding.”
Full of Life Flatbread owner Staub described all of Chaney’s artwork as beautiful, adding that he’s excited to continue working with her and other artists.
“It’s an honor to be part of their creativity,” he said. “It’s just an honor to see what other people’s perception is of what we do and how it fits into what we do.” m
Staff Writer Emma Montalbano can be reached at emontalbano@ newtimesslo.com.
Chaney’s work,
portraits
visit simplyelizabethart.com. To view her series in person, visit Full of Life Flatbread at 225 Bell St., Los Alamos.
PHOTO COURTESY OF FRIENDS OF THE SANTA MARIA LIBRARY
SWEET SURPRISE: Artist Elizabeth Chaney has hung portraits of celebrities and political figures in Clark Staub’s restaurant since 2018, and now, a portrait of Staub himself has joined the wall.
LIBERATING LANDSCAPES: Elizabeth Chaney explained that while abstract landscape art might be less time-intensive than portrait painting, she still aims to create “thought-provoking and fluid” pieces.
ADVOCACY ART: When choosing which paintings to feature on her wall at Full of Life Flatbread, Elizabeth Chaney said that she respects the owners of the restaurant, including co-owner Clark Staub, and wants to ensure that each piece aligns with their beliefs as well.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ELIZABETH CHANEY
Differently abled
In this sequel to The Accountant (2016), both director Gavin O’Connor (Warrior, Pride and Glory) and writer Bill Dubuque (The Judge, A Family Man) return with this new story about Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck), an autistic math savant who also happens to have deadly combat skills. He once again employs his brilliant mind and illegal methods to discover who’s behind the murder of former Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) Deputy Chief Ray King (J. K. Simmons), enlisting the help of his assassin brother, Braxton (Jon Bernthal). (100 min.)
Glen: The original film was surprisingly inventive, depicting Christian’s and Braxton’s harrowing origin stories with their unconventional father and Christian’s unusual talents and time in Harbor Neuroscience, an autism center. The originality of the first is unrepeatable, but O’Connor and Dubuque team up to deliver an effective sequel that picks up a bit more than eight years later. It’s a murder mystery that only Christian can solve. King has retired from FinCEN but uses his investigative skills as a private eye on cases he finds meaningful. While meeting with Anaïs (Daniella Pineda) as part of his current investigation, he’s targeted for assassination, but he manages to scrawl “find the accountant” on his arm before he’s killed. Current FinCEN Deputy Chief Marybeth Medina (Cynthia
THE ACCOUNTANT 2
What’s it rated? R
What’s it worth, Anna? Full price
What’s it worth, Glen? Full price
Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards RPX Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande, Fair Oaks Theatre
Addai-Robinson) does, and soon she teams with Christian to find King’s killer and unravel a human trafficking criminal network that King unearthed. Lots of action, lots of characters, and a surprising emotional impact await. Anna: I remember being impressed with The Accountant when it came out in 2016. It felt original and came with some real surprises. One of the fun things was getting to know the neurodivergent Christian, who Affleck plays with impressive effect. It’s interesting to see how Affleck takes on the character then and now, and how he addresses the subtle changes in Christian over time. Bernthal is back as his gun-for-hire brother, Braxton, an adrenaline junkie who can’t help but poke fun at his big bro. The two play siblings well; they know each other better than anyone else, and with that they know how to easily push each other’s buttons. Marybeth is overwhelmed and disgusted by the violence that the two extol in order to gain information. Hey lady, you called in a fugitive for help, what do you expect? It doesn’t quite pack the punch of the first film, but I still had a lot of fun watching it. I’m fairly certain it could be watched without the context of the first film, you just won’t have as much background on the Harbor and the core of Christian’s backstory. Action film fans should have no qualms paying to see this in the theater.
THE PITT
What’s it rated? Not rated When? 2025
Where’s it showing? Max
The ’90s kid in me practically screamed out loud when I learned that Noah Wyle was back on the bill as an emergency room doctor. Instead of being the plucky new resident, Wyle plays Dr. Michael Robinavich (aka “Robby”), a seasoned ER doc who is guiding his own set of new residents through their harrowing first shift at a Pittsburgh hospital.
Robby must deal with the bureaucracy of hospital administration in search of less care and more money, patients with no patience left, and a staff each on their own level of mental and physical breakdown. This is a medical drama, sure. Even more so, though, it’s a ship helmed by Robby himself, and vignettes of those who surround him get pulled into the light as we work through this never-ending 15-hour shift.
The new kids range from sweet to ambitious to downright bloodthirsty. Watching them ride through their first day is exhausting. From a patient who punches the head nurse to a mass casualty event, every episode is filled with the kind of storylines that anyone who loves a medical drama knows
Let’s slow it down and
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HOLD ON TIGHT: Noah Wyle stars as senior attending physician Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch trying to hold an underfunded ER together, in The Pitt, streaming on Max.
well. Welcome back to the genre, Mr. Wyle! I’m already ready for season two. (fifteen 40- to 60-min. episodes)
—Anna
Glen: Christian’s such an unusual character— an emotionally remote and misunderstood antihero, a sympathetic psychopath with zero empathy but, oddly, with a well-developed moral core. He and Braxton both went through the same early abuse (or “training,” if you align with their father’s worldview), but Braxton’s morality is decidedly different. He feels emotional pain while Christian doesn’t. Both long for connection but are too emotionally stunted in their separate ways to develop it. Is this the beginning of a fine franchise? I’d pay to see what trouble these two get into next.
HAVOC
What’s it rated? TV-MA
When? 2025
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Writer-director Gavin Evans
(The Raid: Redemption) directs this martial arts-filled, bulletridden, and car chase-rich crime thriller about Walker (Tom Hardy), a shady police detective whose personal life is in the shitter and whose professional life is hanging by thread. He’s corrupt but not as corrupt as some of his fellow officers, and he’s on the payroll of Lawrence Beaumont (Forest Whitaker), a real estate tycoon and mayoral candidate of a gritty, fictional American city.
When Beaumont’s estranged son, Charlie (Justin Cornwell), and three other thieves boost a shipment of washing machines filled with a secret stash of cocaine, they try to make good by bringing the stash to the local Triad run by Tsui (Jeremy Ang Jones), but gunmen burst in, killing Tsui, who’s the son of Mother (Yeo Yann Yann), the head of the senior Triad. She wants revenge. On the run from narcotics cops led by Vincent (Timothy Oliphant) and two sets of Triad killers, Walker steps in to rescue Charlie.
It’s a bit slower getting started than I expected, but soon it’s bloody and bone crunching. Compared to the ballet-
Anna: Behind the scenes of everything that Christian pulls off is Justine (played by Allison Robertson and voiced by Alison Wright) at the autism institute and the kids who study there. They work as Christian’s team, cracking codes and gaining intel. This is the type of action flick that I find fun. It has over the top bad guys, someone standing in as the morality police, and a couple of vigilantes who must do bad to do good. m
Arts Editor Glen Starkey from New Times and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
BROTHER IN ARMS: Autistic math savant Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck, right) teams up with his brother, Braxton (Jon Bernthal), to get to the bottom of a murder, in The Accountant 2, screening in local theaters.
like action of the John Wick franchise, Havoc is a bit rough around the edges, just like its protagonist. (105 min.) m —Glen
WAKE OF DESTRUCTION: Tom Hardy stars as Walker, a corrupt cop who wades into the criminal underworld to rescue a mayoral candidate’s son, in Havoc, streaming on Netflix.
Grooming Team: Colette Florey, Janae Amador & Isabella Moreno Groomers’ Assistants: Jacob Hughes, Brandi Janke, Cody Dugan & Morgan
Baking for betterment
BY EMMA MONTALBANO
Five cakes, all different flavors, all with unique designs, all inspired by the stories and experiences of local chefs.
That’s what peasants FEAST Executive Pastry Chef Taylor Tate will be working on ahead of the upcoming Cakes for a Cause Mental Health Awareness Fundraiser happening on May 12 in Solvang.
“This was something I’ve been thinking about for the past couple of years,” Tate said. “It really came from a place of wanting to do something creative, while also getting my chef community together because that’s something that has been really important to me.”
As part of the event, each of the custom cakes made by Tate will be part of a silent auction
with proceeds going to Culinary Hospitality Outreach and Wellness (CHOW). According to its website, CHOW’s mission is to promote wellness in the hospitality industry and enhance the lives of workers in the community.
Tate explained that she chose CHOW as the fundraising recipient because she appreciates the mental health resources it provides for culinary workers.
“I do feel that it’s sort of something that can be overlooked in the culinary industry,” Tate said. “We all struggle in some capacity with mental health because it’s such a demanding job. It’s really hard work, really demanding hours, and a lot of chefs don’t have the time or the resources to get the mental health help that they need.”
In preparation for the event, Tate chose local chefs that she admired from around the Central Coast to create custom cakes for. They include Levi Richard, executive pastry chef at Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez; Jacob Town, co-owner and chef at The Spoon Trade in Grover Beach; Brad Mathews, executive chef and co-owner at Bar Le Côte in Los Olivos; Nik Ramirez, executive chef and co-owner at Na Na Thai in Buellton; and Michael Cherney, executive chef and co-owner at peasants FEAST.
“I just felt like it was me wanting to get to know them better and create connections and create a community,” she said. “They also just have really interesting and really incredible stories that I feel like deserve to be shared.”
She started the process of creating the custom cakes by sitting down with each of the selected chefs to talk about their favorite flavors and colors. More importantly, though, Tate emphasized that these discussions included topics of culinary philosophies and personal mental health experiences.
“[Interviews] honestly have been my favorite part of the process so far, getting to know some of my colleagues on a more intimate level and just being inspired by them,” she said. After asking each of the chefs to share advice for taking care of mental health needs while maintaining a job in the culinary industry, Tate said that the consensus seemed to be finding the right balance between knowing when to put in all one’s effort at work and knowing when to put in more effort into caring for one’s own needs.
“I think for a lot of us, it’s so go, go, go, go, go, all the time that you sort of neglect your own mental health in order to get things out,” she explained. “I think a lot of them, their advice is if you’re just starting out, make your mental health a priority because all it’s going to do is going to
PASSION PROJECT: Michael Cherney, peasants FEAST executive chef and co-owner, said that when Taylor Tate suggested the idea of hosting a fundraiser for mental health awareness featuring cakes, he was “100 percent in.”
CULINARY CANVASES: Peasants FEAST Executive Pastry Chef Taylor Tate said that the upcoming mental health awareness fundraiser will be sort of like an art installation, featuring custom tablescapes and cakes catered to the experiences and desires of each of the five chefs chosen to participate.
make you a better chef, a better person, and it’s going to give you that mindset to be creative and flourish in the industry.”
Cherney from peasants FEAST told the Sun that he’s selfishly excited to see his cake because he “has no idea what it’s going to be.” He added that he’s most looking forward to the fact that CHOW will visit each of the participating restaurants to offer resources and support for workers.
Na Na Thai’s co-owner, Ramirez, explained that being in the culinary industry can make people more prone to having mental health concerns because of the constant taxing work it requires. He said that oftentimes, chefs are encouraged to set aside their problems to focus on the needs of the restaurant, noting that this can be particularly detrimental for a person’s mental health.
to raise both mental health awareness and funds.
“I think the timing of [Cakes for a Cause] is very important,” he said. “I think that what Taylor is doing is pioneering a new version, a new way. I think it can be little things of just asking each other, ‘How are you today?’”
Tate planned the event, which is open to everyone, for a Monday, knowing that many chefs and other workers in the culinary industry have that day off. She expressed excitement about being able
“I’m just really looking forward to being able to hang out with my peers and forge even stronger connections and kind of create a community with these chefs,” she said. “We all know each other. We all admire each other. At the end of the day, we all have the same goal, which is to make beautiful food and to feed people and take care of our guests.” m
Staff Writer Emma Montalbano can be reached at emontalbano@ newtimesslo.com.
CUSTOM CREATIONS: Chef Taylor Tate chose acquaintances from the local culinary industry that she wanted to learn more about, and now, she is in the process of creating a custom cake with unique flavors and designs for each of the chefs.
