s the space formerly known as the Wildling Museum celebrates 25 years, it welcomes Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s first permanent troll in California. Lulu Hyggelig, visible both day and night, is stuck inside the California Nature Art Museum’s tower. Dambo’s gigantic trolls built from recycled materials are spread out all over the world, and Lulu is his first indoor installation. She was built from wooden pallets and wine barrels with the help of about 50 volunteers. Staff Writer Emma Montalbano writes about Dambo’s work and the museum’s quarter-century of serving Solvang with art focused on nature [22]
Also this week, read about why quails have one Solvang neighborhood on high alert [4]; the new police chief in Santa Maria [6]; and a family that brought lumpia to the Five Cities [25]
Camillia Lanham editor
STUCK: The California Nature Art Museum in Solvang welcomes Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s first troll in California— and his first indoor troll, Lulu Hyggelig.
Diversity Coalition San Luis Obispo County
Downtown SLO
ECOSLO
Educational Employees Credit Union
Even Keel Wind, An Invenergy Project
Family Care Network, Inc.
Glenn Burdette
Goodwill Central Coast
Grand Canyon University
Human Interest
Infinity Metal SLO
JB Dewar
Leticia’s First Class Cleaning, Inc.
Lumina Alliance
Making SLO
Martha Olson-Fernandez Foundation (MOFF)
MGP Coatings
Miller Event Management, Inc.
Mountaineer IT
Murphy Bank
NAMI SLO County
New Life K9s
JUSTIN Vineyard & Winery
New Times
Orangetheory Fitness San Luis Obispo
Pacifica Hotels
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Paso Robles Safe & Lock
Photon Brothers
Placer Title
Popolo Catering
Polk Insurance Agency
Powersource Chiropractic
Professional IT Solutions
Promotores Collaborative of SLO County housed by Center for Family Strengthening
Puzzle Effect
Quesadilla Gorilla
Rancho Burro Donkey Sanctuary
Residence Inn & Springhill Suites
San Luis Obispo
Rogall + Co
Roof Maxx of S. San Luis Obispo
San Luis Ambulance Service, Inc.
San Luis Obispo Blues Baseball
San Luis Obispo County Integrated Waste
Management Authority
SESLOC Credit Union
SLO Food Co-op
SLO for Home
SLO Graze
SLO Piercing
South County Chambers of Commerce
St. Andrew The Apostle Greek Orthodox Church
Sunrun
Surfing for Hope Foundation
The Decision Bar
The Law Offices of Daniel J. Knight, APLC
The Management Trust
The Mayan Collective
The Monday Club
The Sign Place
The Villages of San Luis Obispo
The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Therapy Era
Tri-County Office Furniture, Inc.
UCLA Health
United Staffing Associates
United Way of SLO County
Valerie’s Bookkeeping Co.
Velvet Noses Horse Ministry
Waste Connections
Wildflower Women & Sandbox Kids
Williams Cleaning Systems Central Coast
Wisdom Center
Major sponsor:
Social sponsors:
to be building a parking lot before we have the demand for the parking lot,” Hornick said at the meeting. “I know that the parking lot was part of the idea of the [library] development, … but I would just be somewhat reticent to spend so much money before we have the demand.”
In 2023, when the new library was still in its proposal stage, Hornick raised concerns about potential parking congestion in the River View Park neighborhood, even with a designated parking lot for library visitors planned out.
“I am supportive of this project going forward, but I do have very large concerns. … We’re going to have a serious traffic problem,” Hornick said at the City Council’s April 27, 2023, meeting. “[People are] going to park in front of people’s houses.
It’s going to happen.”
During the City Council’s parking lot discussion on April 24, Hornick ultimately sided with his peers on the dais after Lewis described some demand for increased public parking she foresees thanks to yearly traditions like Cowboy Christmas and other events that have required overflow parking in past years.
“We promised the people in that area we wouldn’t continually congest their streets,” Lewis said at the meeting.
Before the contract was approved with a 4-0 vote, Mayor Silva said it’d be better for the city to “spend the money we have now to build a parking lot that we know we’ll eventually need than spend $4 million to build it a few years from now.” m
—Caleb Wiseblood
Autism Awareness Sensory Toy Drive
OYSA held a “Sensory Toy Drive” this past weekend. Families donated many sensory toys, in which all types collected will be donated to the Orcutt Union School District. Thank you to all our Orcutt families who contributed to Autism Awareness Drive.
PARKING PASS: On April 24, the Buellton City Council awarded a contract to a Santa Maria-based contractor to begin construction on a public parking lot for the new Buellton Library (pictured).
Stay informed about Northern Santa Barbara County. Breaking news, insightful opinions, and local event updates sent directly to your inbox every Thursday morning.
Book nook
Santa Maria’s Mission Hope Cancer Center unveils new patient resource library
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in 2023, Guadalupe resident Eileen Hongo underwent 20 rounds of chemotherapy, 35 rounds of radiation therapy, and other procedures as part of her treatment plan.
Between her appointments at Mission Hope Cancer Center in Santa Maria, she formed strong bonds with fellow patients as well as physicians and other staffers on-site. The closing chapter of Hongo’s treatment plan in 2024 marked a turning point for both her and the center.
Last March, Hongo began spearheading a fundraising effort to bring something new to the center: a designated resource library for patients. It was an idea she gradually formed during her treatments.
“There were some things that would have been nice to have—not necessary, but nice to have as a chemo patient,” Hongo told the Sun
Outside of the center’s infusion area, Hongo envisioned a separate space where patients could not only choose to mingle with or confide in one another, but also look to for a variety of resources—books and brochures on different cancer types and ways to manage the side effects of treatment, for example, as well as children’s books and guides for parents with cancer to help them discuss their diagnosis with their kids.
Over the course of about a year, Hongo collaborated with local businesses, friends, family, and other community members to raise nearly $40,000.
These proceeds allowed Mission Hope to transform one of its rooms (previously an open lobby space for staffers or volunteers to use for meetings if needed) into its new patient resource library.
The funds paid for the library’s expansive book selection, with several titles available in both English and Spanish, and renovations to modernize the space, including new handcrafted cabinetry, comfy seating, and a coffee station counter.
“I hope that every patient who walks into that room feels supported and comforted and also reminded that they’re not alone in this,” Hongo said.
During Hongo’s fundraising campaign to make the library a reality, she partnered with a handful of venues in the Santa Maria Valley and Guadalupe, including Orcutt’s Old Town
Wine and Brew, Trattoria Uliveto, and the Guadalupe Social Club, to coordinate dinner events and other programs where a portion of proceeds would benefit her cause.
“It was phenomenal to see the community come together,” said Hongo, who reached out to local entertainers to perform—including singer-songwriter Jineanne Coderre and other musicians—at some of these events.
On April 7, Mission Hope Cancer Center hosted an unveiling ceremony to celebrate the library’s debut. To recognize Hongo’s commitment and dedication, the center placed a plaque in her honor at the library.
Physicians at the center and other employees of Dignity Health were in attendance to congratulate Hongo, including Dr. Julie Barone, a breast surgical oncologist, and Dr. Ben Wilkinson, a radiation oncologist. Jessa Brooks, vice president of philanthropy at the Marian Regional Medical Center Foundation, also attended.
On brand with the new library’s wide variety of books, magazines, and brochures, its coffee station boasts more hot beverage selections (coffees, teas, hot chocolate, etc.) than anywhere else at Mission Hope, Derek Baden, senior director of cancer care services, told the Sun.
“I frequent it every day because it’s got the best coffee in the building,” said Baden, a big fan of French roast. “When you want to spoil yourself, you pop down there.”
Baden described the new library as “a nice social hub where patients can connect with others, share their experiences, and really start to build a support network,” especially those feeling lonely or isolated during the treatment process.
“Treatment can be really stressful, anxiety inducing. … [The library] offers a welcome escape, where they can immerse themselves in books or magazines or just a temporary distraction from their worries,” Baden said. “I think it turned out beautifully.”
Highlight
• The Santa Maria Public Library will host one-on-one tech help sessions on May 10 and 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and May 18 from 2 to 4 p.m. Those who schedule 25-minute appointments during these sessions can get instruction on topics related to new phones and devices, such as general setup and app installation. Call (805) 925-0994 to set up an appointment. m
Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.
A NEW HOPE: Guadalupe resident and breast cancer survivor Eileen Hongo (right) recently led a fundraising campaign to benefit Mission Hope Cancer Center’s new patient resource library. She and her husband, Mark Hongo (left), attended the library’s unveiling ceremony on April 7.
Hot Stuff
ARTS
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE
CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. (805) 928-7799. Kleindancesarts.com. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.
DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN
DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, (805) 937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.
RENT Set in the East Village of NYC, this acclaimed musical follows young musicians and artists trying to create amidst the height of AIDS/HIV. 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, 1:30-3:30 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
MOTHER’S DAY FLORAL-AMBER
NATURAL PERFUME-MAKING
WORKSHOP Celebrate mom with a
natural perfume-making experience. Get tickets and more 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, California, 93441, United States, Los Olivos.
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
BROADWAY NOW AND THEN Celebrating the Studio’s 25 years in business, Broadway Now and Then will include a variety of numbers from Broadway shows. Support the drama production class and guests. Get tickets at the link. May 16 7 p.m., May 17 7 p.m. and May 18 2 p.m. $15. my805tix.com. The Studio of Performing Arts, 835 West Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE
FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA
The Bishop’s Peak Chapter invites you to attend its monthly meeting. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
LESS MISERABLE A spoof of one of the most beloved musicals of all time. Through June 14 Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.
MOANA JR. Set sail with Judkins and Mesa Theater, in partnership with Na Mele O Ke Kai, for Disney’s music-filled adventure full of heart, humor, and more. May 16, 7-9 p.m. and May 17 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. General admission $17; student/child $12. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/moanajr/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
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. 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
ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.
CENTRAL COAST COMEDY THEATER
IMPROV COMEDY SHOW An ongoing improv comedy program featuring the CCCT’s Ensemble. Grab some food at the public market’s wonderful eateries and enjoy the show upstairs. Second Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. $10. my805tix.com/e/ improv-comedy-1-10. SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo.
CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing (805) 8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/ foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/babyhandprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CUESTA COLLEGE’S ANNUAL STUDENT ART EXHIBIT A showcase to highlight students’ ceramics, drawings, digital art,
PINK PROM
Head to the second annual Presqu’ile Pretty in Pink Prom Night at Presqu’ile Winery in Santa Maria on Saturday, May 10, from 6 to 9 p.m. Audience members can expect ’80s-themed live music from The Molly Ringwald Project, along with wine and food trucks under the stars. Tickets are available for purchase at $25. Details can be found at presquilewine.com.
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., May 11 2 p.m., May 15 7:30 p.m., May 16 7:30 p.m., May 17 7:30 p.m. and May 18 , 2 p.m. $27 general; $20 student with ID. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
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.
ISMO: WOO HOO WORLD TOUR Often coined, “the most insightful comic in Finland,” ISMO is set to deliver a performance of masterful word play
and comedic writing at this show, for ages 12 years and older. May 11 $55. fremontslo.com. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-8600.
JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. (702) 335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo.
LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. (805) 441-8257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.
NORTH COUNTY CAMERA CLUB: REGULAR MEETING Zoom meeting for The North County Camera Club, where photographers of all levels can participate, share photos, exchange information, and learn from each other. Second Tuesday of every month, 7-9 p.m. No fee. facebook.com/groups/ PRAAphotoguild. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
NOTES FOR TOMORROW Features artworks from around the world, brought together to reflect on a new global reality ushered in by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through June 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/notes-fortomorrow/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. OPERA SAN LUIS OBISPO PRESENTS THE WIZARD OF OZ Hear the songs from the 1939 film performed live by OperaSLO’s Grand Orchestra and a large chorus during this show, which features an acclaimed cast, expansive sets, dance, and more. May 17 2 p.m. and May 18 2 p.m. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, 756-4849, pacslo.org.
—Angie Stevens
PHOTO COURTESY OF PRESQU’ILE WINERY
required. May 9 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 7701593. youthwell.org/mental-health-firstaid. Online, See website, 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. FROM CELLS TO STORMS: THE HIDDEN ORDER OF CHAOS THEORY WITH PAUL GREILING Join Dr. Greiling as he introduces the Chaos Theory, which is the science of how the universe’s complexity stems from simple rules repeated over and over. Get more information about the event at the link. May 15 1-3 p.m. $12. my805tix.com. Oddfellows Hall, 520 Dana Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-0876.
GROW AND GATHER: A PERINATAL WELLNESS CIRCLE
The intention of this small group gathering is to provide support for expectant and postpartum parents/caregivers in nurturing their mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Thursdays, 10-11:30 a.m. through May 15 $50. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org/ event/grow-gather-a-perinatal-wellnesscircle/. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT
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 15 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. (805) 7701593. youthwell.org/groups. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
TECH BREW MEETUP Tech Brew is a free networking event where people interested in technology can hang out in an informal environment with a small TEDtalk-like presentation from an interesting speaker. Learn more online. Second Monday of every month, 5-7 p.m. (805) 323-6706. meetup.com/softec/. StoryLabs, 102 Cross St, Suite 220, San Luis Obispo.
TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.
TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP
This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated emotional support group to be heard, share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like your own.
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. 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.
GROUP A safe place to share feelings of depression with those who suffer and those who have recovered to a full, healthy outlook on life. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.
Second Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.
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 MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
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.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET
Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.
2025 SPRING FOLK-N-SOAK: MUSIC, HOT SPRINGS, YOGA, CAMPING REUNION Enjoy music each day from Christopher Hawley, along with a selection of other artists, while soaking in 100-degree mineral water, and camping under the stars. Get more info at the link. May 16, 4 p.m.-midnight, May 17 noon-midnight and May 18 12-6 p.m. $35. my805tix.com. Franklin Hot Springs, 3015 Creston Rd., Paso Robles.
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.
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 LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A good core group of friends who gather to discuss topics we love/ care about from movies, outings, music, or being new to the area. We come from all walks of life and most importantly support each other. Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. sloqueer.groups.io/g/lezbfriends. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+
AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.
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/.
FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.
SECOND SATURDAY OPEN AIR MARKET: LOS ALAMOS A carefully curated open air artisan and farm market. Features great vintage finds, handwoven and hand dyed
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.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH Make this Mother’s Day extraordinary and celebrate the mother figures in your life with a brunch at Cambria Pines Lodge. May 11 12-3 p.m. $58. (805) 924-3353. cambriapineslodge.com/events/onsite. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.
MUSIC
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS GARDEN PARTY BENEFITTING THE SANTA MARIA PHILHARMONIC Celebrate Classical Music at a Garden Party, while helping the Santa Maria Philharmonic stay live and local. Get more info at the link. May 18 2-5 p.m. $100. (805) 925-0412. smphilharmonic.org. Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.
HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110. LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
LIVE MUSIC AND FOOD BY LOBO BUTCHER SHOP Check out live music every Friday night from a variety of artists at Steller’s Cellar in Old Orcutt. Dinner served by Lobo Butcher Shop between 5 and 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 5-9 p.m. Varies according to food options. (805) 623-5129. stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.
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. 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.
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
CARMEN AND THE RENEGADE VIGILANTES Enjoy an evening of live country and rock dance songs by Carmen and The Renegade Vigilantes. May 16 8:30-11:30 p.m. mavericksaloon.com. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, (805) 686-4785.
JARED NELS LIVE Santa Barbara-based singer songwriter and yodeler Jared Nels is set to perform a patio set at Maverick Saloon. May 18 3-7 p.m. mavericksaloon.com. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, (805) 686-4785.
LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
ROBERT HEFT BAND Head to Maverick Saloon to hear a blend of blues, country, and classic rock and roll from Robert Heft Band. May 10 8:30 p.m.-midnight mavericksaloon.com. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, (805) 686-4785. 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.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
KARAOKE AT SLO COUNTY’S ONLY FILIPINO CAFE Join for all day, all ages karaoke hosted at SLO County’s only brick and mortar Filipino cafe, Lumpia Bros Cafe. Enjoy karaoke, filipino dishes, acai, and coffee. Tuesdays-Saturdays-6 p.m. through Dec. 31 Free. (805) 202-8473. Lumpia Bros Cafe, 1187 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
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.
PACIFIC BREEZE CONCERTS The City of Pismo Beach Recreation Division proudly presents the Pacific Breeze Concerts at Dinosaur Caves Park. Family activities and food will be for purchase. May 11 , 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 773-7063. pismobeach.org/73/Recreation. Dinosaur Caves Park, 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach.
RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS Bagpipes meet rock in a high-energy, genre-blending spectacle—The Red Hot Chilli Pipers, set to ignite the stage with blazing anthems and world-class musicianship. Feel the heat. May 10 7:30 p.m. $45-$59; Platinum $69. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/red-hot-chilli-pipers/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY BAND SPRING CONCERT The San Luis Obispo County Band presents its annual spring concert, featuring a variety of musical styles. May 11 , 7-8:30 p.m. Suggested donation $10. (630) 421-2556. St. John’s Lutheran Church, 959 Valley Rd., Arroyo Grande.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
MOTHER’S DAY AT VILLA SAN JULIETTE Treat Mom to a Tuscan-inspired day with wine, food, serene views, and live music by Rowdy Yates. Moms will receive a complimentary sparkling pour. May 11 12-3 p.m. $25. (805) 467-0014. villasanjuliette.com. Villa San Juliette Winery, 6385 Cross Canyons Rd, San Miguel. m
The Elverhoj Museum of History and Art and World Wide Motion Pictures corporation will host a reception, discussion, and screening of Danish film, The Kiss on May 31, following the movie’s May 16 premiere in the U.S.
The Danish feature film directed by Academy Award winner Billie August is based on the classic German novel Beware of Pity by Stafan Zwieg, who also inspired The Grand Budapest Hotel The Kiss stars an award-winning international cast, including Danish actors Clara Rosager, Esben Smed, and Lars Mikkelsen.
Set against the backdrop of 1913 Denmark at the start of World War I, the film follows the journey of Anton, a cavalry officer hoping to complete his military training with distinction. After helping the local Baron out of a tough situation with his automobile, he gets invited to a family dinner, where he meets the Baron’s wheelchair-bound daughter, Edith. The two begin spending more time together and Edith falls for Anton, who struggles with whether his feelings for her are genuine as the threat of the first World War looms.
Paul D. Hancock, the president/CEO of World Wide Motion Pictures, will lead a pre-screening discussion during the May 31 event. Allan Hancock College professor Chris Hite, a filmmaker, screenwriter, animator, and film historian with a focus on European cinema, will join the pre-screening discussion.
The event begins at 6 p.m. with a reception featuring Danish-inspired hors d’oeuvres and local wines, followed by the discussion at 7 p.m., and screening at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $40 per person, with a 10 percent discount for museum members. Find out more at elverhoj.org. The Elverhoj is located at 1624 Elverhoy Way in Solvang.
Cypress Gallery features Kristine Kelly, who paints with glass
May,
She started working with glass 30 years ago, making fused glass jewelry and decorative pieces from molds. But once she discovered the art of landscape painting using kiln-fired glass, there was no turning back, according to the Lompoc Valley Art Association’s website. Her work exploits the colors, opalescence, and translucence of glass.
Reflections, transparency, and even the movement of the viewer impacts glass as a medium. With it, Kelly gives the viewer a feeling of distance or a feeling of nearness with her use of three-dimensional glass.
“The viewer can peer into many of the pieces,” the association writes. “You are in the artist’s world.”
Kelly’s show, Painting with Glass, will be up through May 25 at the Cypress Gallery, 119 East Cypress Ave. in Lompoc. ❍
Arts Briefs is compiled by Camillia Lanham.
Museum milestones
Solvang welcomes first permanent California troll by artist Thomas Dambo
BY EMMA MONTALBANO
Lulu Hyggelig snuck out of her tower every night to eat leftover pastries from a nearby bakery, but after a hundred years of feasting, she grew too big to leave her tower. Now she sits trapped, day after day, waiting for sweets from the Solvang streets.
That’s a brief synopsis of the story behind Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s first permanent troll in California, which debuted this past February at the California Nature Art Museum
(CalNAM) in Solvang. According to Executive Director Stacey Otte-Demangate, the Dambo troll commission is one of the museum’s “latest biggest accomplishments,” as it has brought more attention to the museum and even the historic city of Solvang.
“My volunteers and staff are telling me all the time like, ‘Oh, we had a visitor that came from Seattle,’” she said. “This one couple I was talking to drove down specifically from Sacramento because they couldn’t believe that they could, in person, easily see a Thomas Dambo troll.”
Arts and anniversary
To celebrate 25 years, the California Nature Art Museum is currently showcasing artwork from its permanent collection, which includes almost 150 pieces that have been collected over the years. To learn more, visit calnatureartmuseum.org/ exhibitions.
To learn more about Danish artist Thomas Dambo, visit thomasdambo.com.
mission. She expressed pride in the success of the museum, adding that she and her team built it from “nothing.”
“I mean nothing,” she emphasized. “I took it to a few friends and we formed the first board, but we had no idea how it was going to work out or how we were going to raise money. We didn’t have any money given to us, so all of a sudden, we really had to earn it.”
Jacquemain said that she looks forward to continuing to watch the museum evolve over the next several years.
“What I’m hoping is we continue to have some creative people that will think about having new kinds of exhibitions but still keeping with the theme of the wildlife and the wild places,” Jacquemain said.
While the Dambo troll deviates somewhat from the museum’s typical nature-focused installations, Otte-Demangate explained that Dambo’s emphasis on sustainability aligns with CalNAM’s goal of inspiring people to take care of the natural world.
“We are a certified green business, so not only do our exhibitions talk about the love of nature and needing to be good stewards of the land and of natural areas, but we try and walk our talk,” she said.
Dambo builds all of his trolls using “trash” or recycled materials, which for Lulu meant using wooden pallets and wine barrels donated from local wineries. Otte-Demangate described the process of building the troll as a “community effort,” noting that Dambo and his team used the help of about 50 volunteers to build Lulu in just two weeks.
This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the museum, which Santa Barbara artist Patti Jacquemain founded as the Wildling Art Museum dedicated to celbrating nature through art and education. Jacquemain recalled a recent conversation with her husband, Dave Gledhill, where she asked him, “Can you believe it’s been 25 years since we started this museum?”
She noted that what she and Gledhill find most exciting about the museum and its accomplishments is that people have always appreciated its
“It’s really an incredible process,” she said. “It’s all sustainable. It’s all reused materials, which is just a huge part of his ethos because he cares so much about the environment and worries so much about all the trash that humans tend to put out there in the world.”
According to Otte-Demangate, Solvang stood out to Dambo as a location for his first permanent troll in California because of its emphasis on Danish culture. She said that he first expressed interest in working with CalNAM in 2023 after visiting the city.
“Our tower, which is full of windows and right on a high-visibility corner, just seemed like a really great opportunity to him and for us,” she said. Across the world, Dambo has built more than 100 trolls, and Otte-Demangate said that all of those trolls, except for the one in Solvang, sit outdoors in nature.
The artist’s website features a “trollmap,” which shows the location of 154 trolls around the globe. Users of the interactive map can create a profile, allowing them to mark trolls as “found” and continue searching for more Dambo creations.
“So, it’s not just that they’re trashy trolls, so to speak, but it’s also about encouraging people to go on a hike, go out there in nature, and then be surprised by this sort of magical, mythical, goofy thing,” OtteDemangate said. ❍
Staff Writer Emma Montalbano marked Lulu Hyggelig as found. Send tips to emontalbano@ newtimesslo.com.
In
the Cypress Gallery in Lompoc’s featured artist of the month is Kristine Kelly, a painter who uses glass as her medium.
COURTESY PHOTO BY CHRISTIAN GEISNÆS
BRINGING LULU TO LIFE: After completion, Lulu Hyggelig the troll not only became Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s first permanent troll in California, but also his first-ever indoor troll.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GEORGE ROSE
PHOTO COURTESY OF LOMPOC VALLEY ART ASSOCIATION
PHOTO COURTESY OF STACEY OTTE-DEMANGATE
LIGHTS FOR LULU: According to California Nature Art Museum Executive Director Stacey Otte-Demangate, they leave a light on in the tower 24/7 so that people walking around Solvang at night can also experience the sight of a Thomas Dambo troll.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CALIFORNIA NATURE ART MUSEUM
TROLL STROLLS: Using Thomas Dambo’s troll map, people can locate trolls across the world, including Malin’s Fountain in Austin, Texas.
Long live lumpia
Lumpia Bros Cafe brings ‘Filipino comfort food’ to Grover Beach
BY EMMA MONTALBANO
At 5 years old, Eric Cabrera stood on a chair in the kitchen helping his mother make her treasured lumpia. By the time he was a little older, he didn’t need a recipe or his mom’s help to make the “most popular dish at parties.”
“All my friends would beg me to cook them lumpia whenever we would have a get-together,” he said.
Now, decades later, he and his wife, Diane Cabrera, are bringing that beloved Filipino family recipe to the Central Coast at their new restaurant, Lumpia Bros Cafe, in Grover Beach. With his brother and cousin also involved, the Cabreras created a family-run spot that aims to fill a long-standing gap in the local food scene by offering “Filipino comfort food” to the community.
“There are so many amazing restaurants here,” Eric said. “They’re all amazing, but there’s no Filipino food. Everybody loves Filipino food, and so we were like, ‘Hey, why don’t we just try our hand at seeing how the community might feel about this?’”
While Santa Maria has a couple of Filipino restaurants, Lumpia Bros is the first in San Luis Obispo County. To test the waters before diving in, the couple started by selling lumpia—fried spring rolls—on the side at their Pacific Coast Hawaiian Shave Ice and Boba shop in Pismo Beach. The dish quickly became a fan favorite, encouraging them to pursue the next steps in opening the Filipino-focused restaurant.
“We’re just so blessed to be able to have had our boba shop help us get warmed up to having a business that’s a little bit even bigger than the original business,” Eric said. “It helped propel us into being a little bit more knowledgeable when opening our second business.”
They opened Lumpia Bros Cafe in October 2024, and in March, Eric and Diane sold their boba business so they could put more time and energy into running the new place. According to Eric, opening the restaurant led to an “overwhelmingly amazing response from the community.”
“We apparently filled a void that we didn’t even realize was there,” he explained. “We felt that there was a demand for it and that it was
time for it, but we had no idea this amazing, huge response we’d get from the community. They’ve been craving Filipino food for a long time.”
In addition to lumpia, the cafe also serves acai bowls, pancit (a traditional noodle dish), adobo (meat in a sweet-savory sauce), longganisa (sausages), and more. The couple recently started opening their restaurant at 7 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday to catch the morning crowd, offering their original ube matcha latte and a variety of coffee options from their full espresso bar.
“We wanted to open up early to offer coffee because we love coffee, and we also wanted people to have a space to hang out and do work,” Diane said. “We have some regulars right now who come in and do their work and have a coffee.”
Many of the dishes at Lumpia Bros Cafe, including the Spam musubi and lumpia fries, feature the restaurant’s very own Mabuhay Sauce, created by Eric, who explained that the word “mabuhay” means “long live” in Tagalog.
“We wanted to call it the Mabuhay Sauce to give it a cool Filipino name, and everybody likes it,” he said. “Everybody’s been asking for it. Everybody’s been asking if they can buy a bottle.”
Eric created the sauce by accident one day, he said, adding that he didn’t make any measurements or take any notes. After some experimentation, he perfected the sauce recipe, and now, they are working to bottle it to sell to interested customers.
Diane said that when new people come into the restaurant, they sometimes share their connection to Filipino food in what she and the team have dubbed a “Filipino story.”
“They say, ‘Oh, my son-in-law is Filipino,’ or ‘my neighbor was Filipino, and they brought me food,’ or ‘my co-worker is Filipino, and they always bring pancit or lumpia,’” she recounted.
“We get those stories literally every day.”
Both Eric and Diane emphasized their desire
CREATING COMMUNITY: In addition to the açai bar and service counter inside Lumpia Bros Cafe, there’s also a karaoke stage, equipped for people to get up there and sing whenever they want. In the next few months, Eric and Diane Cabrera hope to start hosting regular karaoke nights.
MAKE THAT A COMBO: Lumpia Bros Cafe offers two combo plates, one is the adobo combo plate, which lets customers taste multiple Filipino dishes, including pancit, lumpia, and chicken or pork adobo.
Find Filipino Food
Lumpia Bros Cafe, located at 1187 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. To stay up to date on menu additions and any future events, follow their Instagram @lumpiabroscafe.
Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre
EATS from page 25
to foster a welcoming environment at Lumpia Bros Cafe, where people feel seen and valued. To do this, they have ensured that every employee is trained on what they call “customer care” instead of customer service.
“We really want people to feel comfortable when they come into
our shop,” Diane said. “We want them to feel like family, like friends, because that’s how we want to feel when we go into a business. I want to feel welcomed. I want to feel comfortable, not judged. I don’t want to feel invisible.” m
Reach Staff Writer Emma Montalbano at emontalbano@ newtimesslo.com.
LUMPIA LEGACY: Co-owner of Lumpia Bros Cafe, Eric Cabrera, shared his mother’s lumpia recipe and techniques with a small, trusted group of employees before sharing the dish with the public at his new restaurant.
