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One Battle is a helluva ride [20]

Unsatisfied by a 1 percent raise, Santa Maria-Bonita employees enter mediation with the district [5]

A position’s worth

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

NEWS

Unpermitted food vendors cause trouble [3]

ARTS

Three friends at Gallery Los Olivos [18]

EATS

Early afternoon tea in Lompoc [21]

Contents

Your Dream Home Awaits!

OCTOBER 2 - OCTOBER 9, 2025 VOL . 26 NO. 32

A

s Santa Maria-Bonita School District’s classified staff watched a handful of their higher-ups receive promotions and raises, district administrators offered them only a 1 percent raise. That means less than 20 cents per hour for one longtime food service worker. Others have described their situation as barely enough to pay rent and eat. Now the classified employees union and the district are in negotiations over their contract, and Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood writes about what’s next [5].

Also, read about unpermitted food vendors [3]; three best friends who put up an art show in Los Olivos [18]; and Britishinspired tea and goodies in Lompoc [21].

Camillia Lanham editor

ASKING FOR MORE: Currently in mediation with the Santa Maria-Bonita School District, the classified employees union is fighting for what it would consider a fair raise, more than 1 percent.

Cover photo from Adobe Stock > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

NEWS

News Briefs ...............................................................................3 Political Watch.........................................................................3 Spotlight......................................................................................6

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Arts Briefs ................................................................................18

MOVIES

Reviews ....................................................................................20

OPINION

of Santa Maria

ARTS

Commentary .............................................................................8 Letters ..........................................................................................8 Web Poll ......................................................................................8 Mayfield.......................................................................................8 Canary ..........................................................................................9

CLASSIFIEDS, HOME, AND REAL ESTATE .................................................... 23

EVENTS CALENDAR

Hot Stuff ....................................................................................10

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News POLITICAL WATCH • In a Sept. 26 statement, U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) commented on the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Bureau of Prisons’ (BOP) recent cancellations of bargaining agreement contracts with correctional workers nationwide, including at the Federal Correctional Complex (FCC), Lompoc.

The canceled contracts will impact about 35,000 employees nationally, according to Carbajal’s office.

“Stripping correctional officers of their collective bargaining rights will only undermine morale, recruitment, and retention at a time when staff stability and safety are critical,” Carbajal stated. “I stand firmly with the correctional workers at FCC Lompoc and will push for the restoration of their bargaining rights.” In April, Carbajal co-sponsored the bipartisan Prison Staffing Reform Act, which directs BOP to conduct a review of prisons’ understaffing issues, devise a three-year plan to fill vacancies, and implement the plan, as well as submit yearly progress reports to Congress.

•U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California) and Tim Sheehy (R-Montana)—co-chairs of the bipartisan Senate Wildfire Caucus—recently introduced The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act. This bill would allow states to designate accredited nonprofit land trusts to manage conservation easements purchased with federal funding from the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program (FLP). While expanding FLP’s conservation footprint, the bill aims to minimize wildfire risk through “practical solutions to strengthen our forest resiliency,” Padilla said in a Sept. 24 statement. “Californians know that the status quo isn’t working when it comes to wildfire and forest management,” Padilla stated. “Addressing the wildfire crisis requires collaboration between federal and state governments, private landowners, and nonprofit land trusts to responsibly manage our forest lands. … Our bipartisan bill would improve the conservation of private forests to mitigate wildfire risk while protecting important forest resources and habitat and expanding access to outdoor recreation.” Laurie Wayburn, Pacific Forest Trust president, described the Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act as “commonsense, no-cost enhancement” of the FLP. “It will make it easier for private landowners and states to fulfill their goals of voluntarily conserving well-managed working forestlands for all their public benefits while maintaining private ownership,” Wayburn said in a statement from Padilla’s office. “The option provided in this bill will help many states leverage privatepublic partnerships to get better outcomes while saving money and resources. This bill would unlock and leverage millions in federal funding to help states conserve priority working forestlands, create good-paying jobs, and support sustainable forest management practices that reduce wildfire risk.”

• Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry member and U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-California) was among the 10 senators who signed a Sept. 24 letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins with inquiries about the department’s recent restructuring initiative.

In July, Rollins released a memo to announce the department’s plan to relocate certain Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) staffers to five regional hubs in different parts of the country. None of the designated hubs are in California. “Has USDA analyzed how relocating multiple FNS regional offices away from their respective states might impact staff’s ability to provide direct technical assistance to their states?” the Sept. 24 letter asks Rollins. “This proposed reorganization will lead to reduced oversight quality, diminished technical assistance, and weakened relationships with state partners. … Contrary to USDA’s stated purpose, consolidating staff away from the regions they work in makes it more difficult and expensive for FNS employees to get out into the field to do their jobs.” m

➤ Suspension disbelief [5]

County responds to grand jury report on unpermitted food vending As part of their duties in a recent Santa Barbara County grand jury investigation, jurors visited dozens of food trucks and carts across the region.

Their observations of several state food safety code violations, combined with interviews of local health officials, inspired the jury’s verdict that the county needs to get a better handle on its street vendor scene.

“I’m really grateful to the grand jury because this is an issue that we’ve identified and they validate that,” 3rd District county Supervisor Joan Hartmann said at the Board of Supervisors’ Sept. 23 hearing. “I think many of their recommendations are right in sync with what we’ve been learning. So right on, grand jury.”

The board approved county staff’s responses to the grand jury report with a 5-0 vote during the meeting. Environmental Health Services (EHS) Director Lars Seifert walked supervisors through the report’s findings and recommendations.

While staff disagreed with the grand jury’s finding that the county lacks any “established process by which the public can report unpermitted mobile food vendors to county health,” Seifert outlined a pilot program that aims to give community members a new way to file food complaints beyond calling or emailing county officials.

“EHS does provide public phone numbers/ email addresses specifically for submitting complaints or concerns,” Seifert said. “These channels are monitored regularly by staff during business hours, and complaints are tracked and promptly responded to.” “[We’re] currently piloting this online reporting form and should have this available to disseminate to the public in the near future,” he continued. “[It] will support more timely and efficient enforcement actions by enabling the public to provide information directly from a mobile device regarding the location and operation of unpermitted street food vendors.”

On Sept. 26, EHS debuted the new feature online for the public’s use.

During the Board of Supervisors’ review of the grand jury report, 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps noted “that when the grand jury took this up, we were in a very different climate on our streets.”

“This is predominantly an immigrant issue, and there’s a lot of fear out there. … I just hope that we keep perspective,” Capps said at the September meeting. “While I know that of course no one is in support of bad meat or open flames or public spaces being used improperly. … I just want to make sure that we keep things in balance.”

“I know that LA County has paused enforcement of food vending given ICE raids, etc.,” she added.

Supervisor Hartmann said she appreciated Capps’ comment but added that the county’s come across several unpermitted vendors “largely controlled by a few operations working out of Orange County and LA [that are] very exploitative of the labor that they use.”

“When we talk about balance, I think it’s important that people play by the rules, and I think that this is something that’s being exploited not for the benefit of the immigrant community, but the benefit of people who are taking advantage of them from a few small companies,” Hartmann said. “That’s why there’s a concern about human trafficking. They’re also competing with Latino restaurants, and they also have many Latino employees. In my area, the Santa Ynez Valley, one [restaurant] is really struggling to keep in operation because a food truck is right there.”

—Caleb Wiseblood

October 2 - October 9, 2025

➤ Spotlight [6]

FILE PHOTO FROM SANTA BARBARA COUNTY STAFF REPORT

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT: In the Santa Barbara County grand jury report titled Unpermitted Street Food Vendors in Santa Barbara County, the jury cited observations of improper meat, fruit, and vegetable storage at various mobile food vendor pop-ups.

Guadalupe asks the public to weigh in on urban forest management plan The city of Guadalupe is in the process of finalizing its first urban forest management plan with grant money from the state to help maintain healthy trees. The plan is set to be finalized in February, but first the city is asking for suggestions from the public about their priorities for the city’s canopy.

An urban forest refers to trees in a city that can benefit the community by creating shade, mitigating flood risks, and contributing to better mental health, explained Dayanira Cruz, a Public Works engineering technician.

“Trees are vital to the community, and they have a multitude of benefits,” Cruz told the Sun. “To just have people understand how important trees are to the community, I think that’s the ultimate goal.”

Overall, the 40-year plan will serve as a reference guide for managing current and future trees. For example, as Guadalupe continues to grow, Cruz said the city wants developers and individuals to have a recommended species list when planting new trees.

“We have a lot of young trees,” Cruz said. “We really want to see those trees live a long time, and so really the goal of the 40-year plan is to just create something that is going to last a long time.”

Most of Guadalupe’s trees are on private property, so it’s important for the plan to include information for residents about how to trim

trees, plant native species, and care for diseased trees, Cruz said.

“I know people want trees, it’s just a lot of times the maintenance part of it is the thing that sometimes might deter people from actually planting a tree,” Cruz said.

Cal Fire awarded the city roughly $170,000 in 2022 through the state’s urban and community forestry grant program. Since then, the city has created a GIS inventory of the city’s public trees and a map for future planting locations. The city is working alongside the environmental consulting company, Dudek, to develop the plan.

Public input opportunities will continue into 2026. The city’s first focus group took place in September, and the next session will be held virtually through Zoom on Oct. 2 at 6 p.m.

There will be live Spanish translation at the meeting.

Individuals who live or work in Guadalupe can also fill out a brief online survey, in English or Spanish, through Oct. 31. Participants indicate where they would like to see more trees in the city and what would encourage them to plant a tree on their property.

In addition, the city is urging residents to read the plan and attend City Council meetings to offer suggestions when the draft is under review.

The meetings will likely take place in December or January, Cruz said.

“We want more urban forestry,” Cruz said.

“We want to protect what we have.”

—Madison White

NEWS continued page 4

www.santamariasun.com • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • Sun • 3

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NEWSPAPER & PAPER PRODUCTS

GLASS BOTTLES & JARS

Keep paper clean and dry, and only recycle pieces larger than a small envelope.

Empty and dry all glass bottles and jars before recycling.

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NO PLASTIC BAGS Plastic bags cause contamination and clog machinery. Keep your recyclables loose.

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News NEWS from page 3

Buellton Planning Commission reinstates former 4th District representative

With new blood on the Buellton City Council after August’s mail-in election, a familiar face returns to the Planning Commission.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to continue serving,” three-year Buellton resident Daniel Contreras told the Sun. “Having previously served on the commission, I look forward to building on the experience.”

In early 2024, the council appointed Contreras to fill a mid-term vacancy after former Commissioner Patty Hammel retired from the dais 11 months early.

For the majority of 2025, however, that 4th District commission seat was empty in parallel with the City Council’s eight-month vacancy.

Both boards were short a member between January and September.

That changed when 4th District Councilmember Carla Mead, a newcomer to city government, was sworn in on Sept. 25.

Her first formal action as an elected official was appointing Contreras to the Planning Commission. He was the sole applicant.

“I read through your application, and I think you and I have very similar goals,” Mead told Contreras. “One of the things that stood out to me is this idea of balancing economic development and safeguarding Buellton’s unique character and values, and I think that is something that every person in this room can agree to, and everyone sitting on this dais as well.”

Originally from Whittier, Contreras told the Sun that he and his family moved to Buellton about three years ago for a change of pace.

“We wanted to get [somewhere] a little bit more quieter and a little bit slower. Living the

fast-paced life of LA takes a toll on you with two kids in the household,” said Contreras, who works for Santa Barbara County as a General Services division manager.

In his application to Buellton for Planning Commission consideration, Contreras described one of his platforms as prioritizing development projects that repurpose closed businesses and idle properties.

“One of the things we kind of really cherish around here is the open spaces that we have. We also have a lot of facilities and parcels that are just gathering dust at the moment, and we’re not revitalizing those areas,” he told the Sun. “I think that’s very important that we get to revitalize those areas before we go on to our open spaces.

“One that I’m really looking forward to is the development for the former Pea Soup Andersen’s property,” said Contreras, who added that he misses the shuttered restaurant’s soup and roast beef.

The historic site’s owner submitted concept plans for a proposed redevelopment—a mixeduse building with a new restaurant, other commercial spaces, and one-bedroom condos— in October 2024.

Contreras said he doesn’t know specifics about the project’s status in the Planning Commission’s review and public hearing pipeline. Buellton’s planning and development website describes the pitch as “only a submitted concept. … There is a substantial process before anything will be built on the site.”

The Planning Commission’s Oct. 2 meeting was canceled due to a lack of agenda items, so the committee’s first hearing as a complete fivemember board since late 2024 will be Oct. 16.

“I see this role as an opportunity to listen, collaborate, and help guide decisions that will shape Buellton’s future,” Contreras said, “in a positive way.” m —Caleb Wiseblood

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CONNECT THE DOTS: Alvin Elementary School is among the Santa Maria-Bonita School District campuses that employ teacher aides and other workers who are members of the California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 129. The union recently declared an impasse with the district over its latest raise offer to classified employees.

Suspension disbelief Santa Maria-Bonita School District labor union pushes higher wages for classified employees to state mediator

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

T

his October marks Cheryl Ausan’s 31st year making breakfast and lunch for hundreds of schoolchildren a day.

She’s been stationed in cafeteria kitchens within the Santa Maria-Bonita School District (SMBSD) for all 31 of those years. For the past 20, she’s held the title of food service worker at Ida Redmond Taylor Elementary School on Carlotti Drive.

Accepting the fact that her wages at year 31 are equal to most fast food employees on day one wasn’t a problem for Ausan until recently, she said, when talks between her labor union and the school district about a raise dispute reached a boiling point.

“For me, 1 percent is less than 20 cents an hour,” Ausan told the Sun. That’s the highest percentage raise the district was willing to offer its cafeteria workers, custodians, instructional aides, and other nonteacher positions broadly defined as classified employees who are part of the California School

Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 129 union.

“The only reason I’m still here is I’ve put in so much time and I’m getting ready to retire in the next four or five years,” said Ausan, who described her CalPERS benefits as “a light at the end of the tunnel.”

Melissa Gutierrez, president of CSEA Chapter 129, told the Sun that the union and the school district reached an impasse over the offer in September. She said the next step will be working with a state-assigned mediator.

Months of prior negotiations between the two agencies included a survey distributed to about 1,000 classified employees during the spring. Of the 200 employees who responded, 72 percent voted for an 8 percent raise or higher, while 28 percent voted for a 1 to 7 percent raise.

Ausan was among those in the latter camp.

“I didn’t want to be greedy,” she said with a laugh.

When the union presented the survey results

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to district leaders before the end of the 2024-25 school year, the slideshow quoted comments from employees: “I am constantly torn between keeping a job I am happy at and love and looking for something that will pay me enough to pay rent and eat.”

“I love this job and everything it entitles but not making a living wage is killing me.”

“My family is needing to use our credit cards for basic necessities.”

According to Chapter 129 President Gutierrez, the 15-minute slideshow didn’t garner feedback from district officials in attendance.

“When we had presented that in negotiations with the district’s team, there was no response.

I mean, people were on their cellphones during the presentation. People were on their laptops,” Gutierrez said. “We really don’t feel that we’re being heard at all.”

Gutierrez’s union declared its intention to flip SMBSD’s elected board—filling it with supportive members—in light of the impasse during the last week of September, the same week the board approved promotions for four district director positions with a 5-0 vote.

“They tell us that there’s no money: ‘We can’t give you more than 1 percent, but we can find money for all these management positions.’

That’s really been upsetting,” Gutierrez said.

“It’s time to find community leaders that will listen and will ask the hard questions, and not just rubber stamp everything, and just nod and agree with the district.”

SMBSD Deputy Superintendent Matthew Beecher told the board in September that the raises attached to the promotions were appropriate based on changes in job descriptions.

“Creating new positions can be very expensive if you’re backfilling the position that it’s created from. That’s not the intention tonight,” Beecher said at the Sept. 10 meeting. “[We’re] making changes congruent with other school districts.”

Beecher said the annual total cost of the four raises combined was $48,000, dispersed between leadership roles in nutrition services, facilities maintenance, fiscal services, and contracts and procurement.

“It is important to properly reflect the responsibilities of these positions and the impact that their decisions have on the district and its mission,” said Beecher, who told the board that the goal behind the proposal was to give each coordinator with increased responsibilities a new “job description and title that makes sense, then create the compensation that aligns with that job description.”

CSEA Chapter 129 President Gutierrez said that the last time her union branch declared an impasse was about a new job description the union and school board couldn’t agree on how to compensate.

About four years ago, the district updated its job description for more than 20 computer lab aides employed at the time with new responsibilities, according to Gutierrez. “[SMBSD] said, ‘We’re just updating the job description, they don’t need raises,’” Gutierrez recalled. “It was literally over 29 cents. The difference between us and the district was 29 cents, and they fought us until we went to impasse.”

About a month after a state mediator got involved, Gutierrez said the district’s negotiators “finally came back and said, ‘OK, fine, we’ll give it to you.’”

“I still don’t understand why they’re taking the hard way,” Gutierrez said. “I don’t know if the district’s team does it just to see if we’ll give up. … Sometimes I do feel that way.”

As for the district’s latest negotiations with CSEA over classified employees’ wages, SMBSD Public Information Officer Samantha Scroggin said that the district cannot discuss specifics.

“SMBSD values all our employees and their contributions and is committed to reaching a compensation agreement that highlights that appreciation,” Scroggin said in a statement via email. “The interest-based bargaining team, including management and classified staff, are working toward next steps on reaching an agreement.” m Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

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SPOTLIGHT

Flying high Righetti High senior spruces up OASIS Senior Center during his Eagle Scout service project

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nsh Vinchhi recently joined the roughly 4 percent of scouts in the country who achieve Eagle Scout ranking, the highest achievement in the program. He demonstrated that he is trustworthy, helpful, brave, kind, and all the other characteristics that scouts should exemplify, as outlined by scout laws.

The Ernest Righetti High School senior celebrated his accomplishment with his family and fellow troop members at a ceremony in September. Vinchhi is one of 21 scouts in Troop 87, based out of Santa Maria.

Scoutmaster Ron Terry estimated that there have GIVING BACK: Ansh Vinchhi’s Eagle Scout service project helped been 16 Eagle Scouts in refurbish the OASIS Center, where his grandparents spent a lot of time after moving to the area. Vinchhi built a bench, repainted the troop in the past eight interior rooms, and revitalized the landscape. years, a relatively high number that signals the troop’s dedication. much English.

“They didn’t have American friends, so the Vinchhi became a Cub Scout in 2018 and OASIS Senior Center did an amazing job of was soon old enough to join Boy Scout Troop providing them with like a second home, so I 87 at age 11. From there, he climbed seven wanted to show gratitude,” Vinchhi said. rankings to become an Eagle Scout.

Outside of scouting, Vinchhi competes in “I learned just kind of like how resilient I can track and cross country and be when I’m faced with a lot of likes to stargaze, a passion challenges,” Vinchhi said. inspired by his astronomy Some of his favorite memories Become a Scout merit badge. After graduation are from summer camps.

Kids ages 11 to 18 are eligible he hopes to study astrophysics He participated in three of to participate in Scouting in college. the weeklong camps and America. To join a scouting unit, visit beascout.scouting.

His advice to younger scouts remembered having fun shooting org. Follow Boy Scout Troop 87 is that scouting is all about the rifles and throwing hatchets. on Facebook for updates. The journey, not the destination.

“All three of them have been troop is open to girls and boys.

“Sticking through it is awesome,” Vinchhi said. “[I] what matters most,” Vinchhi met a lot of cool people from said. “That will really teach you a lot about different scout troops that you wouldn’t be yourself, a lot about others, and a lot about a able to meet otherwise.” bunch of topics that you would never find out Amid building leadership skills, making otherwise.” friendships, and giving back to the community, scouts dedicate time to earning Highlights merit badges, which signify proficiency in certain skills. Only 21 are required to become • The SantaMUSIC Maria Valley Senior Citizens an Eagle Scout; Vinchhi earned 31.

Club (SMVSCC) promotes happiness and In addition to certain mandatory badges active lifestyles for adults 50 years and older. like first aid and camping, scouts can choose The nonprofitFLAVOR/EATS offers a wide range of activities topics they want to learn more about. Vinchhi at the Elwin E. Mussell Senior Citizens Center collected badges in robotics, wood carving, in Santa Maria.

During the week, the club INFO and animation, among others. He said the holds indoor pickleball, billiards, bingo, mahhiking badge took the most effort because he jongg, yoga, dancing, and more. SMVSCC also CALENDAR health and wellness, had to complete four 10-mile hikes and one provides educational, 20-mile hike. legal, and transportation resources. The center Every Eagle Scout’s last milestone is a service is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. during OPINION weekdays. Call (805) 349-0688 or visit smvscc. project. Vinchhi decided to spruce up the org for more information.

OASIS Senior Center. He painted the interior • Applications offices, improved the landscaping, and built a NEWS are open for the Lompoc Valley Children’s Christmas bench for the center. He said Season Parade. Individuals, planning the project took STROKES groups, and businesses around two years.

Promote! are invited to apply. The Terry, a mentor to Troop Send business and 87 for the past 13 years, nonprofit information to ARTSapplication is available at spotlight@santamariasun.com. cityoflompoc.com/recreation explained that the project is a or at the Anderson Recreation “big deal” and must serve the Center. The deadline is Nov. 17. The parade is greater good of the community. scheduled for Dec. 5 and will start at 6 p.m. on “It asks a lot of leadership out of the Eagle H Street. m Scout or candidate,” Terry said.

Vinchhi’s project honored his grandparents, Reach Staff Writer Madison White at frequent visitors of the center, who he said mwhite@santamariasun.com. moved to the U.S. from India and didn’t speak

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

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

El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria Educación Especial - Búsqueda de Estudiantes El Distrito Unificado de Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria (SMJUHSD) busca identificar, localizar y evaluar a los estudiantes en edad de escuela preparatoria sospechosos de tener una discapacidad que puede ser elegible para servicios de educación especial diseñados para satisfacer sus necesidades educativas sin costo alguno para las familias. Esto incluye a los estudiantes que son altamente móviles, migrantes, sin hogar, estudiantes que están bajo la tutela del estado, y los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas privadas ubicadas dentro los limites de SMJUHSD. Si sospecha que su hijo tiene una discapacidad, comuníquese con el departamento de educación especial de la escuela u oficina de Educación Especial del distrito SMJUHSD. Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)

OCTOBER CHAMBER MIXER with YOUR WILD Natural History Museum

Get

October 16, 2025 • 5–7 p.m.

THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM 412 South McClelland Street, Santa Maria

Music by Jay Turner, MC

in the Native Garden and Grounds

Meet Some Wild Animals!

to Universal Studios House of Horrors!

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SANTA MARIA RIVER GIFT BASKET SPONSORS • Emerald Media•Graphics LTD • Noon Rotary • Cool Hand Luke’s •Trader Joe’s• Land Trust • Santa Maria Valley Historical Society • • Santa Maria Museum of Flight • Arrow Camera • Santa Maria Times • Gavins Books• Blosser Urban Garden • PCPA • Fuego Radio 97.1 FM • Santa Maria Animal Hospital • J’s Tires • Babé Farms FOOD SPONSORS• Chef Ricks•PICO • Gina’s Piece of Cake • Clementine Carter • Fatte’s • Maya • Sisquoc Winery • Hitching Post Casmalia • Michoacan Tradicional Ice Cream Shop

Kicking off the Museum’s 30th ANNIVERSARY with a ROAR!

Email naturalhistory412.santamaria@gmail.com for more info • Tax ID #77-0419354 P.O. Box 5254, Santa Maria CA 93456

www.santamariasun.com • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • Sun • 7

Opinion ONLINE POLL

Should the county get more info from ICE regarding its activity in the county?

36% Yes, and it should get warnings of future operations.

36% No. There’s nothing the county can do about ICE activity.

14% Yes. The supervisors were right to update local policy.

14% No. The Sheriff’s Office already updates the county.

14 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

Northern Santa Barbara County’s News & Entertainment Weekly 801 S Broadway Suite 3 Santa Maria, CA 93454 EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING | 805-347-1968 E-MAIL | mail@santamariasun.com WEB | www.santamariasun.com FOUNDER | Steve Moss 1948-2005 EDITORIAL EDITOR | Camillia Lanham ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Andrea Rooks SENIOR STAFF WRITER | Caleb Wiseblood STAFF WRITER | Madison White CALENDAR EDITOR | Angelena Stevens STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER | Jayson Mellom ART DIRECTOR | Alex Zuniga EDITORIAL DESIGNERS | Leni Litonjua, Taylor Saugstad CONTRIBUTORS | Glen Starkey, Anna Starkey, Ross Mayfield ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE | Kimberly Rosa ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES | Katy Gray, Stasja Knopf, Tyler Dunavan, Riley Speidel PRODUCTION ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER | Mary Grace Flaus GRAPHIC DESIGNERS | Ellen Fukumoto, John Nygaard Business Cindy Rucker CIRCULATION | Jim Chaney, Michael Ferrell, Margo Baldives, Simon Lopez, Joe Brice PUBLISHERS | Bob Rucker, Alex Zuniga OFFICE MANAGER | Stephanie West SUBMITTING LETTERS WRITE | Mail your letter to Sun Letters, 801 S Broadway Suite 3, Santa Maria, CA 93454.

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COMMENTARY

➤ Canary [9]

Fool’s folly

Should politicians define and regulate ‘hate speech’?

BY RON FINK

T

if they were fact has me not believing anything I see or hear either in print or on social media. he First Amendment to the U.S. The online Encyclopedia Britannica defines Constitution “guarantees freedoms hate speech this way: “Typical hate speech concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition.” Taking it literally, this involves epithets and slurs, statements that promote malicious stereotypes, and speech means you can say anything you want about intended to incite hatred or violence against a anything or anybody, sometimes.

One exception is that you can’t shout “fire” in group.”

The online dictionary Merriam-Webster a crowded theater unless there really is a fire in defines malicious this way: “having or showing progress. a desire to cause harm to someone.” Some The earliest form of widespread would say that most political comedy or communication was the town newspaper.

Then, as now, the content was controlled by the pre-election ads that paint a person in an unflattering way might fit this description. owner of the publication. What followed was I think that an objective observer would say radio, then television, and finally the internet. trying to regulate free speech from a public In the last decade broadcasters have been policy perspective based on these definitions canceling shows that conflict with their would involve subjective decision-making by management’s, the audience’s, or advertisers’ whichever political view of the political party is in power. scene. This has Therefore, asking the aggravated many government to decide people who don’t what’s “hate speech” realize that this would become very isn’t the first decade complicated. in which this has It’s best left to the happened. consumer who can In the late 1960s simply research soand early 1970s, called “facts” and ignore two comedy shows, MUSIC those that are false.

Laugh-In and The Private industry—newspapers, radio, Smothers Brothers were a little too edgy for local television, manufacturing, retail, and any TV stations in Boise, Idaho, which routinely FLAVOR/EATS other entity owned by a private person or canceled their broadcast without notice. corporation—is another story. The idea of free At the time, according to a Fox News post, speech in any INFO workplace is always subject to the “Johnny Carson warned against preaching in interpretation of the business owner. entertainment” in a 60 Minutes interview.

Considering that the current political In the last couple of years, we have been akin to the rivalry between the hearing that “hate speech” should be regulated. atmosphere isCALENDAR Hatfields and the McCoys, The proliferation of 24/7 whose families set out to political opinionating on the OPINION eliminate each other in the public airways and social late 1800s over some obscure media has produced an Send us your disagreement, it’s no wonder unending stream of false views and opinion to NEWSthat so-called “hate speech” information. Repeating the letters@santamariasun.com. has proliferated as each same falsehoods endlessly as

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Repeating the same falsehoods endlessly as if they were fact has me not believing anything I see or hear either in print or on social media.

Speak up!

STROKES

ARTS

MAYFIELD

political party tries to gain more power.

But back to the basic question, should government regulate “hate speech”? Asking politicians to define it is a fool’s folly. Why? Because they would conclude that any negative comments about their performance in office or their stance on current issues would fit that definition.

The enforcement of any regulation would be fluid depending on which party was running the government. And if strictly applied, that definition would eliminate almost all public discussion of any issue.

To quote Alexander Hamilton—one of the founders of our nation who in the late 1700s wrote in the Federalists Papers—“I have had an eye, my fellow-citizens, to putting you upon your guard against all attempts, from whatever quarter, to influence your decision in a matter of the utmost moment to your welfare, by any impressions other than those which may result from the evidence of truth.”

That’s still true in 2025. m Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc.

Send a letter for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.

WRITE NOW!

We want to know what you think about everything. Send your 250-word letter to Sun Letters, 801 S Broadway Suite 3, Santa Maria, CA 93454. You can also fax it (1-805-546-8641) or e-mail it (letters@santamariasun.com).

All letters must include a name, address, and phone number for verification purposes; may be edited for space or clarity; and will be posted to santamariasun.com.

LETTERS Why we must fight back and pass Proposition 50

If ever the maxim of fighting fire with fire presented a fitting action, it’s in these desperate times.

Texas mid-decade and against rules reshaped the state district map, a move intended to add more Republicans to Congress when Trump asked for five more seats. A move that suppresses the votes of brown and Black residents. The governor’s action lit a fuse that exploded into a conflagration that affects us all.

For a nation to function, its citizens must abide by agreed upon rules.

The United States, though born imperfect, has strived to improve. Over the past 250 years, we’ve progressed slowly through hard-fought battles for our constitutional rights, but no situation has been as crucial as the one we now face.

The Republican Party under the tyrannical leadership of Trump turns the clock back. He has control of all three branches of government.

He’s whipped a large segment of the media, courts, and universities into submission, closing down avenues of information and redress.

He himself charges, convicts, and disappears people. He upends regulations, which destroy our health care system, our environment, and our justice system. Crucially it denies us free speech and isolates us.

We stand in the path of a maelstrom with few ways to fight back. We can play fair and stand by as democracy burns to ashes or start a defensive fire to contain the turbulence.

Passing Proposition 50—a temporary measure—gives us a chance of gaining some control in Congress.

When the Republicans change the rules, we must fight back. An unchecked authoritarian government closes all avenues of dissent. Once in power, it’s very difficult to restore democracy.

It’s essential to fight back before it’s too late.

Shirley Schaffer Arroyo Grande Sarah Newfeld-Green and Kathy Bond Grover Beach

8 • Sun • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com

Opinion

The good fight

I

f my boss offered me a raise that was less than 20 cents an hour, I’d be offended.

That’s why I’m empathetic to the plight of Santa Maria-Bonita School District’s classified employees, who took a look at the district’s offer of a 1 percent raise and decided it was time for a mediator to step in!

Meanwhile a handful of higher-ups are getting $10,000 raises! That’s rude.

A woman who’s worked in the district’s kitchens for 31 years has wages that are about equal to most fast food employees on day 1. How? “My family is needing to use our credit cards for basic necessities,” one employee told the classified employees union.

But the district is claiming that there’s no money, according to the union’s president, Melissa Gutierrez, who added that the district can find money for management positions.

“That’s been really upsetting,” she said.

And the union is threatening to upend the district’s board by running candidates against current board members.

“It’s time to find community leaders that will listen and will ask the hard questions, and not just rubber stamp everything, and just nod and agree with the district,” Gutierrez said.

Ooh. Them’s fighting words.

Are they taking a page out of the Santa Maria Firefighters Local 2020’s playbook and spending a bunch of money on candidates and a campaign against sitting elected officials? That union didn’t get what it wanted out of the election.

But firefighters did get a significant raise—14 percent—although it wasn’t what the union initially fought for.

I guess if that tack sort of worked, it’s worth the good fight! Right?

Can I crash on your couch for awhile?

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Flint & Cinder Sweet little black male chihuahuas would love a home together. Completely housetrained and past the chewing stage… they are just over a year old. Great little lap warmers, social with other dogs and cats, and enjoy riding in the car!

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At least it’s not a food fight!

Santa Barbara County is dealing with the nuisance of unpermitted food vendors and the various ailments that go along with that—potential labor trafficking, food poisoning, unsafe roadways, etc. You know, code violations and legal issues.

Things are bad enough that the grand jury got involved and penned a report that was strikingly similar to the county’s own conclusions. What’s up with that? Two in row? Remember the cannabis?

The food vendors issue has been one of 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann’s policy issues for a while now, and she concurred with the grand jury and the county.

“This is an issue that we’ve identified and they validate that,” she said. “Many of their recommendations are right in sync with what we’ve been learning.

So right on, grand jury.”

It is nice to be validated, isn’t it.

However, one of her colleagues decided to hop on her immigrant issue soap box.

“While I know that of course no one is in support of bad meat or open flames or public spaces being used improperly, … I just want to make sure that we keep things in balance,” 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps said, adding that LA County paused enforcement due to the ICE raids.

Hartmann countered that many of the unpermitted vendors are exploitative of the very people that Capps is concerned about. So what’s the answer?

Roy Lee of the 1st District wondered whether the county could tell its employees not to eat at these roadside spots. Well, apparently, the county can’t tell people what to do in their free time.

So, not the answer? m

The Canary wonders about these electeds sometimes.

Send concerns to canary@santamariasun.com.

The holiday season can present challenges.

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www.santamariasun.com • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • Sun • 9

Hot Stuff

10-DAY CALENDAR: OCTOBER 2 - OCTOBER 12, 2025

BAR TAKEOVER

The next bar takeover is set for Thursday, Oct. 2, from 4 to 7:30 p.m. at Steller’s Cellar in Orcutt. Each week, a participating winery offers a flight and “takes over” the bar to pour their wine and answer any questions. To sample various wines, mark your calendar and visit stellerscellar.com for additional details.

—Angie Stevens PHOTO COURTESY OF SANTA MARIA VALLEY

ARTS SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/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/.

EVERY BRILLIANT THING See Every Brilliant Thing at the PCPA, by Duncan Macmillan, with Jonny Donahoe. Based on true and fictional stories, MacMillan’s play celebrates the power of resilience, the intricacy of mental health, and the extraordinary impact of ordinary joys. Oct. 9-26 $25.

(805) 922-8313. pcpa.org. Severson Theatre, 800 S. College Dr., Santa Maria.

FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17.

First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

THE HUMANS Watch this production at the Santa Maria Civic Theatre. Get tickets and more details regarding showtimes at the link. Oct. 10-26 $17.91-$23.27. my805tix.com. Santa Maria Civic Theatre, 1660 N. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

VALLEY ART GALLERY: ROTATING DISPLAYS Featured artists of Santa Maria’s Valley Art Gallery frequently

display their works at the airport. Check website for details on monthly exhibits and full list of the gallery’s artists. ongoing valleygallery.org. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

“A PERSONAL POINT OF VIEW” THREE FRIENDS THREE STYLES ONE COLORFUL SHOW AT GALLERY LOS OLIVOS See A Personal Point of View — Gallery Los Olivos features watercolorist Karen McGaw, pastel artist Carrie Givens, and oil painter Renée Kelleher. MondaysSundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. (805) 688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT KOEHLER WINERY Head to Santa Barbara County Wine Country to sip wine and paint amongst the picturesque Koehler Winery in Santa Ynez. Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $89.

(805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com.

Koehler Winery, 5360 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos, California, 93441, United States, Los Olivos.

WILD IN CALIFORNIA SOLO EXHIBITION See the exhibition Wild in California, a solo exhibition by Museum Founder, conservation advocate, and artist Patti Jacquemain. A array of woodcut prints and mosaics will be showcased, highlighting the bioregions and species that make up California’s rich biodiversity. Through Feb. 23, 2026 calnatureartmuseum.org/news/ wild-in-california-2025. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

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.

EVERYDAY IMPROV: SKILLS FOR LIFE These interactive, welcoming workshops use the tools of improvisational theater— like play, spontaneity, and “yes, and”—to build real-life skills for communication, confidence, and connection. Every other Sunday, 6-7:30 p.m. through Nov. 16 $15 each or $75 all. theagilemind.co/. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande, (805) 270-5523.

MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL Discover your inner film critic by casting your vote for Best Film and Best Actor in the 28th Annual Manhattan Short Film Festival. Oct. 2, 1-4 p.m. and Oct. 3, 1-3 p.m. Free. (805) 773-2263. slolibrary.org/.

Shell Beach Library, 230 Leeward Ave, Shell Beach.

SLO COUNTY OPEN STUDIOS TOURDESIGNS BY TINA LOUISE, STUDIO # 24 Join the SLO Open Studios Tour with jewelry artist and designer Tina Doherty of Designs by Tina Louise. Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 720-0582. Designs by Tina Louise, 2342 Brant Street, Arroyo Grande.

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.

AS THE CROW FLIES WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM In this 4-hour mixed media workshop, you’ll receive step-by-

New Times and the Sun now share their community listings for a complete Central Coast calendar running from SLO County through northern Santa Barbara County. Submit events online by logging in with your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account at newtimesslo.com. You may also email calendar@newtimesslo.com.

Deadline is one week before the issue date on Thursdays. Submissions are subject to editing and approval.

Contact Calendar Editor Angelena Stevens directly at astevens@newtimesslo.com.

10 • Sun • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com

step instruction for creating a beautiful detailed collage of crows or ravens. Oct. 4, 12-4 p.m. $45. (805) 478-2158. i0.wp.com/ artcentralslo.com/wp-content/uploads/ 2025/08/As-The-Crow-FliesCunningham.jpg Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

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. centralcoastcomedytheater.com/shows/.

SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo.

CUESTA DRAMA PRESENTS: JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH Join us in the Experimental Theater for this stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s famous children’s novel. Oct. 9, 7:30 p.m., Oct. 10, 7:30 p.m., Oct. 11, 2 & 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 12, 2 p.m. $25 General, $20 Student w/ID. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

IMPRESSIONISTIC REALISM OIL PAINTING WITH FRANK EBER Learn how to paint lively, expressive paintings with a focus on color accuracy, mark making, and the interconnection of each element.

Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m.-1:15 p.m. through Oct. 28 $295 for 6 classes. (805) 747-4200. i0.wp.com/artcentralslo.com/wp-content/ uploads/2025/08/Frank-Eber-Advanced-

INDEX Arts...................................... 10 Culture & Lifestyle ...........12 Food & Drink ......................16 Music ...................................16

Oil-Sept-Oct25.jpg Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

IMPROV WITH BENEFITS Join a dynamic cast of improvisers for a one-of-a-kind comedy show at Bioneers. Every laugh helps create positive change. Oct. 3, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

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.

MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FEST You be the judge! Watch short films screen simultaneously around the world. See and vote on films from up-and-coming filmmakers. See link for locations. Oct. 2, 1:30-4:30 p.m. and Oct. 3, 1-4 p.m. Free. sanluisobispo.librarycalendar.com/events/ list?program_types%5B368%5D=368.

Various SLO County Libraries, Varies, Varies, (805) 781-5785.

OIL PAINTING: EXPRESSIONISTIC REALISM WITH FRANK EBER Learn how to paint lively, expressive paintings with a focus on color accuracy, markmaking, and the interconnection of each element. This class is for intermediate and advanced painters. Tuesdays, 1:30-4:30 p.m. through Oct. 28 $295. (805) 747-4200. i0.wp.com/artcentralslo.com/wp-content/ uploads/2025/08/Frank-Eber-AdvancedOil-Sept-Oct25-1.jpg Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

PAINT A FALL WREATH WITH TISHA SMITH Instructor Tisha Smith will guide you step by step in painting a work of art which you can use to make cards, prints, etc. Oct. 9, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $25.

(805) 440-9048. i0.wp.com/artcentralslo. com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/FallWreath-Oct.jpg Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden. Second

Saturday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $75 per picket or 2 for $100. (805) 541-1400. slobg. org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

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

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

SIJI KRISHNAN Krishnan’s evocative paintings exist in a realm between memory and myth, where figures emerge from translucent layers of pigment.

Through Jan. 11, 2026, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

(805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/sijikrishnan/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

SPLISH SPLASH! A WATERCOLOR EXHIBIT Central Coast Watercolor Society & Art Central presents “Splish Splash!” celebrating excellence in watermedia painting. Mondays-Sundays, 12-6 p.m. through Nov. 3 (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/gallery/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors.

To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo. com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO SHOW On display now through mid-April. ongoing slogallery.com/. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

BAD NEWS BEARS Watch the screening of Bad News Bears, the 1976 sports comedy film, starring Walter Matthau and Tatum O’Neal. Oct. 6, 5-8 p.m. $17.91.

ARTS continued page 12

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www.santamariasun.com • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • Sun • 11

Hot Stuff beauty in marvelous watercolors, embracing the medium’s unpredictable nature resulting in beautiful works.

Gallery is open daily. Through Oct. 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 SMALL WORKS IN ACRYLIC

BY CAROLE MCDONALD Carole McDonald creates vibrant, small-scale acrylic paintings of magical landscapes, birds and Central Coast life. Bring home a bookshelf treasure. Gallery is open daily. Through Oct. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

(805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. OIL PAINTING WITH ANITA HAMPTON Students will paint still life set-ups while learning color theory, value, perspective, lighting, design, composition, and more with well-respected teacher Anita Hampton. Thursdays, 6-8:30 p.m. through Nov. 20 (805) 772-2504. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, artcentermorrobay.org.

SELF HELP See Self-Help by Norm Foster, directed by Lisa Woske at By The Sea Productions. Tickets and more details are available at the link. Oct. 3, 7 p.m., Oct. 4, 7 p.m., Oct. 5, 3 p.m., Oct. 10, 7 p.m., Oct. 11, 7 p.m. and Oct. 12, 3 p.m. $28.62. my805tix. com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

A TASTE OF OLD TOWN ORCUTT Experience sips, small bites, samples, specials and fun in O’ Town, leaving full and happy! Get tickets to this 21+ event at the link. Oct. 11, 1-4 p.m. $45. my805tix.com.

Stellar Home, 255 Union Ave, Orcutt.

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.

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

STAGE BRILLIANCE

Showtimes for the new production Every Brilliant Thing will begin on Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Severson Theatre in Santa Maria, and continue through Sunday, Oct. 26. Based on true and fictional stories, the play by Duncan MacMillan, with Jonny Donahoe, celebrates the power of resilience, the intricacy of mental health, and the extraordinary impact of ordinary joys. For tickets and more details, visit pcpa.org.

—A.S. FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/.

Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.

FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17.

First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

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

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

GROW NATIVE PLANTS EVENT Fall is the best time of the year to grow native plants!

Transform your garden into a stunning oasis by planting and growing native plants. Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. through Oct. 31 Free. (805) 934-2182. growing-grounds-farm-santa-maria.

square.site/. Growing Grounds Farm, 820 W. Foster Rd., Santa Maria.

“OUR LITERARY VOICES BUILD COMMUNITY “ A FREE HALF DAY LITERARY EVENT Head to the Santa Maria Public Library to meet, listen to, learn from, dialogue, and connect with five acclaimed regional authors.

Oct. 4, 1-5 p.m. Free. (805) 994-9536. coastaldunescwc.com. Shepard Hall Art Gallery (Santa Maria Public Library), 421 South McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

CHUMASH INTERTRIBAL POWWOW The Chumash Intertribal Powwow is a two-day event, where over 300 Native American dancers and singers representing many of the tribes from Canada and the United States will attend to participate socially and competitively. The committee’s goal is to provide the community with educational and cultural experiences, focusing on Native American music, arts and customs while promoting Native American self-reliance and pride. Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Oct. 5, 10 a.m.-6

Bonnie and Clyde, the charming troublemakers, and Dr.the Jekyll, who may or Bonnie and Clyde, charming may not turn into the sinister Mr. Hyde, troublemakers, and Dr. Jekyll, who may or contemplate a into showdown: in aMr. battle of good may not turn the sinister Hyde, versus evila within everyin soul, who of would for ages 5 to 105! contemplate showdown: a battle good PerformancesFun Wednesday through Sunday emerge victorious?

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p.m. $5. (805) 688-7997. chumash.gov/ powwow. HWY 246 & Meadowvale Road, HWY 246 & Meadowvale Road, Santa Ynez.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y THE NEAL TAYLOR NATURE CENTER ADVENTURES WITH NATUREAT CACHUMA LAKE Fall under the spell OCEANO’S BEAVERS Join State Park of owls, bats, and spiders. See slithering Docent Dan to learn about Oceano’s snakes and lizards. Touch real skulls and beavers and enjoy a walk around Oceano bones that will rattle your bones. Oct. 4, Lagoon. Space is limited. RSVP by calling the number provided. Oct. 11, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (805) 693-0691.

10 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 474-2664. clnaturecenter.org. Neal Taylor Nature Center, 2265 Highway 154, Santa Barbara. centralcoastparks.org/awn/. Oceano Dunes Visitor Center, 555 Pier Ave., SANTA YNEZ VALLEY SCARECROW Oceano.

FEST Head to the 16th annual Solvang COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN Scarecrow Fest, part of the larger SYV MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY Scarecrow Fest, running through Oct. 31.

Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks Solvang businesses and organizations including pathways maintenance, litter will participate in the contest by featuring patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, a scarecrow of their own creation posted irrigation system expansion/repairs, at their location, upon which locals, pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should tourists, and area merchants may vote. bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, Through Oct. 31 Free. (805) 688-0701. syvscarecrows.com/. Solvang Chamber of and tools related to the above activities.

First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Commerce, 485 Alisal Rd #245, Solvang.

Free. (805) 710-3073. Nipomo Native THE SOLVANG FARMER PUMPKIN Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo.

PATCH The Solvang Farmer Pumpkin CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 15 Patch will reopen for the 2025 season

SEPTEMBER 26 - NOVEMBER 8 SEPTEMBER 26 - NOVEMBER 8

12 • Sun • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com

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.

RANCH TABLE Hosted by Elizabeth Poett, enjoy a farm-to-table dinner inspired by her Ranch Table cookbook. Every ticket supports the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County. Oct. 11, 4-8 p.m. $250. (805) 6980598. donate.foodbanksbc.org. Rancho San Julian, 6000 San Julian Rd, 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.

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Performances Wednesday through Sunday Professional LIVE Theatre!

beginning on Sept. 26, growing more than 50 different varieties of pumpkins ranging in size from Wee-B-Littles up to several hundred pounds. The pumpkin patch also features a corn maze with a scavenger hunt for hidden symbols throughout, as well as freshly-grown, freshly-popped popcorn and kettle corn. Through Nov. 2 Solvang Farmer Pumpkin Patch, 1035 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

WORLD WORLDPREMIER PREMIER

ARTS from page 10 my805tix.com. Bay Theatre, 464 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay. CREATIVE FLOW WORKSHOP IN RHYTHM, SONG, & ART Join for a joyful and grounding Creative Flow Workshop that blends art, rhythm, and song to reconnect you with your inner voice and the power of community. Led

by Dee and Chenda, this experience invites you to explore creativity through guided movement, expressive arts, and a collaborative song circle filled with rhythm, voice, and heart. Oct. 4, 1-5 p.m. $63. my805tix.com. Lor Coaching Studio & Gallery, 525 Harbor St., Morro Bay. FREE DEMO: EXPLORING DIGITAL ART WITH FRED VENTURA Join as digital artist Fred Ventura givew a free demonstration at Art Center Morro Bay. Oct. 4, 3-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-2504.

ARTCenterMorroBay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay. FREE DIGITAL PAINTING DEMONSTRATION A painting demonstration with digital artist Fred Ventura will be held at Art Center Morro Bay. For more details, see artcentermorrobay.org. Oct. 4, 3-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-2504. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, artcentermorrobay.org.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS 40 YEARS OF WATERCOLORS BY HOPE MYERS Award-winning watercolorist Hope Myers will showcase her Central Coast-inspired paintings, created over four decades of artistic efforts on the Central Coast.

Gallery is open daily. Through Oct. 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 ATUL PANDE’S ACRYLIC PAINTINGS, WHERE COLOR AND FORM COLLIDE. Atul Pande creates intuitive abstract paintings in acrylics, layering colors and forms inspired by his Indian heritage and scientific background.

Gallery is open daily. Through Oct. 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 CENTRAL COAST INSPIRATIONS: JAY STIELER’S WATERCOLOR LANDSCAPES Jay Stieler captures the Central Coast’s unspoiled

OCTOBER 2 - OCTOBER 12, 2025 PHOTO COURTESY OF PCPA

NEW TIMES AND SUN:

THE THIRD ANNUAL

PHOTO BY: CANDACE MASE

PHOTO BY: CARLY PENSON

SPECIAL ISSUE

PHOTO BY: ALISA ASTON

Our Special Pet Issue will be published on October 23, 2025, and will include winners of this year’s photo contest.

Last day to get your ad in: October 17, 2025

PHOTO BY: GEORGE REYES

Proceeds will benefit

PHOTO BY: SARA CORNISH

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www.santamariasun.com • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • Sun • 13

Three Speckled Hens Vintage Market FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3

Alex Madonna Expo Center, SLO

Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

Christmas at the Santa Margarita Ranch

MONDAY, OCTOBER 27

2025 Folk-n-Soak Music Reunion

&

FRI, NOV 28 - SUN, DEC 21

9000 Yerba Buena Ave, Santa Margarita

NOW - OCTOBER 20 The Bunker SLO

Tuesday Night Stand-Up Class

NOW - OCTOBER 28 The Bunker SLO

2025 Central Coast Bioneers Conference

Brass Mash First Friday

Self Help

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2 Octagon Barn, SLO

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3-5 Franklin Hot Springs, Paso Robles

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3 Liquid Gravity Brewing Co, SLO

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3 By the Sea Productions, Morro Bay

Creative Flow Workshop in Rhythm, Song & Art SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4 525 Harbor St, Morro Bay

Youth Pride Prom

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4 The Center, Arroyo Grande

Tribute to Emmylou Harris & Steve Earle SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5 Cambria Center for the Arts

Pumpkin Succulent Centerpiece Class

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5 The Pottery, Atascadero

Freestyle Flow Jam w/Maxwell Muscarella SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5 Central Coast Floats, SLO

Bad News Bears

MONDAY, OCTOBER 6 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

Waves after Dark: A Wickedly Elegant High Tea

Central Coast Cooking Show

Solar Plexus Chakra Sound Journey

The Green Omen Apothecary Mixer

Lila Forde w/Two Paper Squares

9th Annual Improv Playoffs 2025

MONDAY, OCTOBER 6 Breda, SLO

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7 2361 Theatre Dr, Paso Robles

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7 CC Body Therapy Center, Los Oso

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9 The Green Omen Apothecary, Atascadero

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9 Club Car Bar, Templeton

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10 SLO Public Market

The Killer Dueling Pianos

Joyful Rhythms Drum Circle

The Humans

Zongo Yachting Club 2025

End Polio Now: 5K Walk or Run

A Taste of Old Town Orcutt

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10 The Stockyard, Orcutt

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10 CongregationHouse, SLO

FRI, OCTOBER 10 - SUN OCT 26 Santa Maria Civic Theatre

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 Morro Bay Yacht Club

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 Shamel Park, Cambria

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 Stellar Home, Old Orcutt

Play it Forward at the Rock

Parr Collective Winemaker’s Dinner

Bibbidi Bobbidi BOO Dance Party

California Main Street 2025 Conference

Just Dessert (And Wine)

Two Headed Girl w/Special Guests

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 SLO Brew Rock, SLO

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 Cavalier Cove Room Plaza, San Simeon

14 • Sun • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12 Madonna Inn, SLO

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15 Downtown SLO

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16 Marin’s Vineyard, Paso Robles

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16 The Bunker SLO

SELL TICKETS WITH US! 805-546-8208 INFO@MY805TIX.COM

UPCOMING EVENTS ON MY805TIX.COM

“The Birds” Fundraiser Screening

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4

Paso Robles Event Center

Monday Night Improv Class

SLO Oktoberfest

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Hot Stuff CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 12 GPDC X CENTRAL COAST PRIDE: YOUTH PRIDE PROM Dance the night away at this year’s Pride Prom, where the theme is Goth Fantasy. Grades 9 through 12 are invited to embrace their inner goth, dressing in your best dark or dreamy looks. Tickets and more details can be found at the link. Oct. 4, 7 p.m. $14.70. my805tix.com. The Center, 1152 E Grand Ave, Arroyo Grande.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52 Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological.

Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. (805) 547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index.php/chapter-52-lospadres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.

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.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

2025 CENTRAL COAST BIONEERS CONFERENCE Visit the link to get details regarding each day’s activities. There will be a pre-conference field trip, a beaver dam analog tour, a cocktail mixer, and conferences regarding the environment, climate change, and social justice.

Oct. 2-4 $12.56-$119.68. my805tix.com.

Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096.

2025 FALL FOLK-N-SOAK MUSIC/HOT SPRINGS/YOGA/CAMPING REUNION Soak in 100 degree mineral water and camp out under the stars, enjoying the music from the pool at the hot springs, beginning at 4pm Friday until midnight, noon on Saturday until midnight, and resuming Sunday until 6. A Qi Gong class will be held Saturday morning and yoga on Sunday morning! Oct. 3-5 $35-$90. my805tix.com. Franklin Hot Springs, 3015 Creston Rd., Paso Robles.

AI SEMINAR FOR SENIORS A senior will present the fundamentals of this daunting technology for those needing answers.

Come learn, lament, and laugh about the limits of the limitless AI. Oct. 9, 1-2:30 p.m.

Free. (805) 709-6234. Marty Mimmack, 1255 Orcutt Rd., SLO. 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.

BRIDGE LESSONS FOR BEGINNERS Get easy bridge lessons, with the first four lessons free! Expect an introduction to the fascinating game with a gentle format.

First Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. through Dec. 9 (805) 602-0171.

OCTOBER 2 - OCTOBER 12, 2025 slobridge.com. SLO Senior Center, 1445 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY meets at CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups the SLO Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors are available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, welcome. First Tuesday of every month, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, 1-3 p.m. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 540-9484, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.

CARE CREW Calling all crafty, caring, pet- slocity.org/seniors.

SLO PICKLE FESTIVAL Meals that loving kids! Care Crew members will join us in filling Kongs for our canines, crafting Connect is hosing their second annual 21+ SLO Pickle Festival! All proceeds benefit pet toys, and creating art. Oct. 5, 2-3:30 Meals that Connect, supporting over p.m. and Oct. 12, 2-3:30 p.m. $5. (805) 200,000 seniors in SLO county. Oct. 4, 1-4 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/ youth-programs/. Woods Humane Society, p.m. $65 for GA $80 for VIP. (805) 541-3312 ext. 116. slopicklefestival.org. Laguna Lake 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

Park, 504 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA GROUP (VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics based. All are welcome. Please wear a Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:30fellowship of folks from all walks of 11:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church life who together, attain and maintain SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo. sobriety. Requirement for membership COMMUNITY FARM TOUR Join at MUSICis a desire to stop drinking. Email the farm and get a public tour of the aarapgroup@gmail.com for password regenerative farm! First Saturday of every access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/ month, 9:30-11 a.m. through Dec. 6 (805) FLAVOR/EATS events/. Online, See website, 769-8344. cityfarmslo.org/communitySan Luis Obispo. tours. City Farm SLO, 1221 Calle Joaquin, TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT San Luis Obispo.

INFO GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery.

CALENDAR Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

Send event information to calendar@ OPINION TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space santamariasun.com. providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, NEWS and questioning people. In-person DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For and Zoom meetings held. Contact the early riser or commuter, every tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more weekday morning. Maintain or improve STROKES details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA concentration, balance, and flexibility.

Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.

ARTS with more practices. Led by certified WEEKEND ON THE HILLTOP: A 1935 Awareness Through Movement teacher.

Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, FASHION EXPERIENCE Step into the golden age of California glamour featuring 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) a 1930s private collection and pieces on 280-5800. margotschaal.com/qigong. loan from California State Parks at Hearst Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

Castle. Oct. 4, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. & 4-6 p.m.

FIVE CITIES REPAIR CAFÉ Get free $100. themondayclubslo.org. The Monday repairs to household appliances, outdoor Club, 1815 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, gear and apparel, bikes, jewelry, clothing, (805) 541-0594. computers, tablets, game consoles, phones, and more. Don’t toss it! Fix it!

NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (650) 367-6780.

END OF SEASON EVENT: WATERFRONT repaircafe5cities.org. Octagon Barn Center, MARKET This is the last market for the 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo.

2025 season. If you haven’t come out HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT yet, do it before we say goodbye until 2026. Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Oct. 5, 10 GROUP A safe place to share feelings of a.m.-4 p.m. (805) 402-9437. Giovanni’s Fish depression with those who suffer and those who have recovered to a full, healthy Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay. outlook on life. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free.

ZONGO YACHTING CUP - 2025 Join for (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness the Zongo Yachting Cup, where racers and Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. cruisers will be making their way down to San Diego for the start of the Baja Haha.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION Your race entry includes complimentary (ONLINE) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. dockage and mooring at Morro Bay Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, Yacht Club, the Zongo Cup Launch Party, water taxi service in Port San Luis , a San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346. post-race party at the Point San Luis Q YOUTH GROUP (VIA ZOOM) This is Lighthouse, and trophies. Oct. 10-11 $50. a social support group for LGBTQ+ and my805tix.com. Morro Bay Yacht Club, 541 questioning youth between the ages of 11Embarcadero, Morro Bay, (805) 772-3981.

18. Each week the group explores personal, HOT STUFF continued page 16 cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8

Spread the word!

The Bright Choice for ALL your Electrical Needs in Santa Maria and Surrounding Areas

Tickets on sale now at My805Tix.com SELL TICKETS WITH US! IT’S FREE! CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO. 805-546-8208

Po’ Ramblin’ Boys: Concerts at The Printery

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 Atascadero Printery Foundation

Gilbert & Sydna Reed Memorial Festival

Sr. (Pop Punk)

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

Brass Mash

Hippie Reunion: Peace, Love & Murder

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 Oasis Senior Center, Orcutt

Movie Night at the Zoo: Condor Canyon

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 The Blackbox Theatre, SLO

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 Blast 825 Brewery, Orcutt

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 Central Coast Zoo, Atascadero

Arachnophobia 35th Anniversary Screening

Monster Ball

The Spicy Singer

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 Cambria Center for the Arts

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 Community Church of Atascadero

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 The Libertine, SLO

The Doers & Dreamers Afternoon Retreat

Re-Animator: 40th Anniversay Celebration MONDAY, OCTOBER 20 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

Women Mean Business Mastermind

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21 ACI Jet, SLO

Heart Chakra Sound Journey

County Gov’t Q & A with Bruce Gibson

State of the SLO Creek Watershed

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19 SLO County

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21 CC Body Therapy Center, Los Osos

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22 Odd Fellows Hall, SLO

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23 Octagon Barn, SLO

Carl Sonny Leyland & Marc Caparone

The Office Party at the End of Time

2025 Central Coast Jazz Jubilee

Contact the Experts at Power and Lighting Service

(805) 621-6755 • powerandlightingservice.com • FREE Estimates • Residential & Commercial • Panel Upgrades • Vehicle Ports • Troubleshooting & Diagnostics

Voted BEST Electrician

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23 Puffers, Pismo Beach

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 1152 E Grand Ave, Arroyo Grande

FRI, OCT 24 - SUN, OCT 26 Paso Robles to Solvang

Scan QR code with camera to sign up for the weekly Ticket Wire newsletter and get all the latest events each Wednesday

www.santamariasun.com • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • Sun • 15

Tickets on sale now at My805Tix.com SELL TICKETS WITH US! IT’S FREE! CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO. 805-546-8208

Hot Stuff

OCTOBER 2 - OCTOBER 12, 2025 PHOTO COURTESY OF MY805TIX

HOT STUFF from page 15

FOOD & DRINK SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

Activation Concert

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

Wednesday Night Improv Class

Fresh Faces & Full Glasses

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 Dallidet Adobe & Gardens, SLO

The Idiomatiques

NOW - OCTOBER 22 The Bunker SLO

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, SLO

2025 Cayucos Car Show

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos

La Casita’s Halloween Drag Brunch

NLP Phobia Process Training

SAT & SUN, OCT 25-26 TBD

Halloween Special: Brass Mash

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 1572 W Grand Ave, Grover Beach

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

Mumtober

Giafunni’s Halloween Comedy Jam!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 Dallidet Adobe & Gardens, SLO

Qi Gong – Yoga & Fitnes Feng Shui

THURSDAYS, NOW-DECEMBER 31 CC Body Therapy Center, Los Osos

POWERED BY:

&

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 Giavanni’s Pizza, Santa Maria

Point San Luis Lighthouse Tours

IN-PERSON TOURS: WED & SAT VIRTUAL TOURS: ON DEMAND Point San Luis Lighthouse, Avila Beach

Tent City Limits Concerts at the Printery

NOW THRU OCTOBER 17 Atascadero Printery Foundation

Rocky Horror Picture Show

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 835 W Grand Ave, Grover Beach

Paso Picture Show presents “Beetlejuice”

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 Bianchi Winery, Paso Robles

46 West Wineries Hallowine

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 Dark Star Cellars, Paso Robles

Full Moon Yoga

NOW-DECEMBER 4 Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, SLO

Garagiste Annual Tasting Pass 2025

NOW-DECEMBER 31 Various Wineries

Scan QR code with camera to sign up for the weekly Ticket Wire newsletter and get all the latest events each Wednesday

16 • Sun • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com

BAR TAKEOVER THURSDAYS Join us Thursdays to meet and chat with the winemaker of the flight we’re featuring that week. Thursdays, 4-7:30 p.m. $15-$30.

(805) 623-5129. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, stellerscellar.com.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY Head to Food Truck Friday, with wine bottle specials and local food trucks every Friday at the Wine Stone Inn. Fridays, 4-9 p.m. through April 24 Free.

(805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more.

Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays (805) 922-1468. costadeorowines.com.

Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.

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

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 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/.

TAP THURSDAY Head to Tap Thursdays at the Wine Stone Inn every week, featuring $5 draft beers and $5 Cava’s. Thursdays, 3-9 p.m. through April 16 Free. (805) 3323532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.

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

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

WINE BINGO WEDNESDAYS Join Wine Bingo Wednesday at the Wine Stone Inn –– the original bingo night in Old Orcutt. The event will occur weekly with the purchase of an adult beverage.

Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. through April 29 (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.

SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

BATCH COOKING CLASS WITH A-Z COOKING SCHOOL Work with seasonally available local produce, and learn a variety of techniques and recipes. Take home what you cook after this class, geared towards adults and teens, 14 years and older. Second Sunday of every month, 2-3:30 p.m. through Nov. 9 $55. (805)

SET SAIL

The 16th annual Zongo Yachting Cup from Morro to Avila will be held at the Morro Bay Yacht Club on Saturday, Oct. 11, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a launch party at Tidelands Park from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 10, and a reception party at the Point San Luis Lighthouse beginning at 4 p.m. on Saturday. This is the Central Coast’s biggest offshore sailing race, and custom glass trophies will be up for grabs. It’s $50 to enter a vessel. To purchase a ticket and get more info, head to my805tix.com.

—A.S. 214-1213. santaynezvalleygrange.org/mcevents/adult-and-teen-cooking-classeswith-a-z-cooking-school/?mc_id=222.

Santa Ynez Valley Grange Hall, 2374 Alamo Pintado, Los Olivos.

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 COUNT Y

MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES 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.

TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo.

Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. (805) 295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

SAN LUIS OBISPO VEGAN CHEF CHALLENGE Businesses across the region will showcase exciting special vegan menu items. This event is open to everyone, not just vegans! Through Oct. 31 veganchefchallenge.org/slo/. At participating businesses, All over the region, San Luis Obispo, (480) 954-1257.

SLO OKTOBERFEST Join the festivities at the annual SLO Oktoberfest, with a variety of German beer, food, games, contests and music. Oct. 4, 1-5 p.m. $55. my805tix.com.

Madonna Expo Center, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

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

HAWAII IN OCTOBER Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens presents a “Hawaii in October” dance with Riptide Big Band.

Oct. 12, 1:30-4 p.m. Free. (775) 813-5186.

RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

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 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.

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.

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.

MUSIC continued page 17

Hot Stuff MUSIC from page 16 SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y

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

WE LC OME TO T HE S O U N D T R A C K OF F REEDOM

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.

H O L LY W O O D F I G H T N I G H T S

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

2025 LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE CONCERT SERIES Head to the Point San Luis Lighthouse in Avila Beach for Saturday afternoon concerts. Get tickets and more info at the link.

Through Oct. 11 $28. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

F R I D AY, O C T O B E R 3 / 6 P M T I C K E T S S TA R T AT $55

ABBA LA: THE ABBA CONCERT EXPERIENCE Experience ABBA-mania with ABBA LA, a dazzling 8-piece tribute packed with iconic hits, costumes, lights, and nonstop sing-along, clap-along, dance-floor joy for all ages! Oct. 4, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $45-$60, Premium $65. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org.

Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

BLANK SPACE - THE UNOFFICIAL TAYLOR SWIFT TRIBUTE STARRING OLIVIA MORETTI Clark Center Presents: BLANK SPACE - The Unofficial Taylor Swift Tribute, starring Olivia Moretti. Oct. 11, 2-3:30 & 7:30-9 p.m. $49-$69, Platinum $79; Senior & Student Discounts. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/.

Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

CENTRAL COAST HARMONY CHORUS INVITES SINGERS TO JOIN FOR HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES Men and women are invited! No prior experience is necessary - just a love of music.

Call or email for more information. Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. through Dec. 18 $20. (805) 736-7572. ccharmony.org. Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St., Nipomo.

A 1 C O M B AT M M A S AT U R D AY, O C T O B E R 4 / 6 P M T I C K E T S S TA R T AT $55

J E F F E R S O N S TA R S H I P F R I D AY, O C T O B E R 17 / 8 P M T I C K E T S S TA R T AT $2 9

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.

D S B W O R L D S G R E AT E S T JOURNEY TRIBUTE BAND

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.

MARIACHI DIVAS DE CINDY SHEA Clark Center Presents: The Grammy Award-winning Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea. Oct. 5, 7-9 p.m. $45-$65; Senior & Student Discounts. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

MUSIC WITH A VIEW - OPEN GATES AT THE CHAPMAN ESTATE GARDEN Enjoy Open Gates at the seaside Chapman Estate in Shell Beach. Bring a picnic dinner and music, tables, chairs, and views will be supplied. Docent-led garden tours are available. Fridays, 5-7:30 p.m. through Oct. 24 $5/person + $5 for Docent tours (optional). chapmanestatefoundation.org/.

Chapman Estate, Private residence, Shell Beach.

REELIN’ IN THE YEARS - CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF STEELY DAN Minerva Presents: Reelin’ in the Years Celebrating the Music of Steely Dan. Oct. 9, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $39-$65. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SOLEDAD BARRIO & NOCHE FLAMENCA - SEARCHING FOR GOYA Noche Flamenca’s latest creation is an evocative flamenco performance inspired by the powerful imagery of Francisco de Goya. Hear them live at Clark Center for the Performing Arts! Oct. 3, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $49-$79, Platinum $85; Senior & Student Discounts. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/.

Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

A TASTE OF IRELAND - THE IRISH MUSIC & DANCE SENSATION Pace Live Presents: A Taste of Ireland - The Irish Music & Dance Sensation. Oct. 7, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $45-$75. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

F R I D AY, N O V E M B E R 21 / 8 P M T I C K E T S S TA R T AT $2 5

Management reserves the right to change or cancel promotions and events at any time without notice. Must be 21 or older. Gambling problem? Call 1.800.GAMBLER. ©2025 Chumash Casino Resort.

JAZZ JUBILEE 20 CENTRAL COAST 25

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BROOKS NIELSEN (OF THE GROWLERS) LIVE Brooks Nielsen, celebrated frontman of The Growlers and now a critically acclaimed solo artist, has firmly established himself as one of the most distinctive voices in independent music. Hear his solo work live at the Fremont. Oct. 4, 8 p.m. $60.74. fremontslo.com.

The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-8600.

WHIP IT! A WEST COAST SWING PARTY Westies, groove with Nexus’ West Coast Swing jam! An intermediate WCS lesson will be held at 7 p.m., followed by social dancing at 8! Oct. 4, 7-11 p.m. $10. nexusslo.com. Nexus SLO, 3845 S Higuera St. (Lower Level), San Luis Obispo, (805) 904-7428. m

used vinyl, cds, tapes, and stereo equipment WE PAY TOP DOLLAR FOR RECORD COLLECTIONS IN GOOD CONDITION

October 15th - 26th 30+ Bands at 20 Venues from Paso Robles to Solvang!

805-619-7145

Details, Schedule and Tickets: JAZZJUBILEECENTRALCOAST.COM

Hours: Tues-Saturday, 11-6 Sunday, 12-4 • Monday-Closed

Watch for the complete program in the New Times Oct. 16th issue

141 West Dana Street #100, Nipomo

www.santamariasun.com • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • Sun • 17

Arts

GALLERY COURTESY IMAGE BY RENÉE KELLEHER

ARTS BRIEFS Square Perspectives is on display this month at the Cypress Gallery

See their POV

Gallery Los Olivos is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 2920 Grand Ave. in Los Olivos. The featured artist show, A Personal Point of View, is up through the end of October.

IMAGE COURTESY OF VICKI ANDERSEN

Square Perspectives, an art show at the Cypress Gallery, is showing until Oct. 26 featuring 12-by-12-inch works created by both professionals and beginners.

“This democratic approach creates a visually striking mosaic of styles and techniques and fosters a supportive environment where established and up-and-coming artists can connect and inspire each other,” according to the gallery.

Showcasing a diverse array of subjects and themes, Square Perspectives features artists from across the county.

The show is a great opportunity to discover hidden local talent, according to Lompoc Valley Art Association President Vicki Andersen.

“The Lompoc Valley Art Association that runs the Cypress Gallery likes to include our local community as much as we can. It is always great to see what the public can create,” Andersen wrote in an email to the Sun. On Oct. 12, the gallery is hosting an opening reception for Square Perspectives from 1 to 3 p.m. The paintings in the show are for sale, with 70 percent of proceeds going toward the artist and 30 percent to the gallery.

Visit the Cypress Gallery at 119 E. Cypress Ave. in Lompoc Thursdays through Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (805) 737-1129 for more information.

Lompoc library hosts a book-themed pumpkin decorating contest FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF LOMPOC PUBLIC LIBRARY

The trio thinks that their regular honest and caring feedback led to their lasting friendship. They don’t agree with every critique, but everyone is allowed their own point of view. That perspective inspired the name of their show.

“We’re tight as artists, as critics, and yet nobody has ever said, ‘I have to change the way I paint,’” Kelleher said. “We all come to it from our own perspective. It’s been really cool, so I love this title.”

In A Personal Point of View, McGaw’s work emphasizes water and light on the cliffs, prominent in her landscapes. One of her favorites is an evening scene at Leadbetter Beach in Santa Barbara.

FROM EXPERIENCE: Early Morning Round-Up is inspired by Renée Kelleher’s sunrise trip with a cowboy to “With watercolor, you never know round up cattle. She wants the viewer to feel the grit from the cows kicking up dust. if you’re going to get it or not, and every once in a while, you get lucky,” McGaw became a dental McGaw said. “That one all kind of went together hygienist after her parents steered for me.” her away from art school, “as was Leadbetter Evening depicts the Santa Barbara real common in that time,” she cliffs bathed in warm sunlight above the said, but the passion stuck with shallow, glistening tide. her. McGaw hung her work in the Givens will also be showing some of her dental office, which led to her first landscape paintings, but her focus is on still sales. life vegetables and fruit. She and her husband Despite the twists and turns of have an organic farm in Goleta where Givens life, they all made time to pursue likes to photograph produce in the fields. She’s

BY MADISON WHITE painting. Now the three have been friends for returning to the subject after having lost some years, evident in their banter on a recent group of her previous vegetable paintings in a fire. enée Kelleher’s journey as an artist took off phone call with the Sun. “I just really have fun with the leaves, trying when she started painting murals at her Their exhibit, A Personal Point of View, is to arrange the leaves so that they look kind of elementary school. Then, in junior high, an up at Gallery Los Olivos through the end of decorative,” Givens said. art teacher saw potential and encouraged her to October. It marks their first show all together “I can’t wait to see those, Carrie,” Kelleher attend the California College of Arts and Crafts and features watercolors by McGaw, pastels by chimed in. one summer.

Givens, and oils by Kelleher.

Kelleher is displaying “a bit of this and that,” “My teachers were all French, and it was live McGaw and Kelleher first met in the 1990s including a few pieces from her succulent series nude models. Our parents had to sign a waiver through a watercolor critique group. and a New York scene of a flower market that that it’s OK to look at naked bodies,” she said “We became best friends and fellow painters, her two friends suggested she include. with a laugh. and we took that trip to France and had so much “Thank you, girls,” Kelleher said to her The experience boosted her confidence as a fun,” McGaw said. “We’ve been doing things like friends. “That’s what friends are for.” young artist, she remembered, because she was that ever since.”

The artists agreed that it’s a validating holding her own amid painters from around the The pair encountered Givens about eight feeling to have their paintings hang in the world. years ago in a critique group, Brush Marks, gallery. They each work at the gallery one Elsewhere, Carrie Givens and Karen McGaw day per month, which is especially fun when were also developing a love for art at a young age. and the trio solidified. Brush Marks has been a they have artwork up because they can see Like Kelleher, Givens remembered an inspiring strong foundation for their friendship through the years. gallerygoers’ reactions. art teacher who influenced her life. She drew all “We’re still friends, even after critiques,” “It’s like the completed circle,” McGaw throughout school, experimenting with different Kelleher said. media, until she landed on pastels. She took a added, “from the seed of imagination to the full At monthly Brush Marks meetings, 11 artists circle.” m break to raise her family but found her way back. convene for drinks and snacks. They give advice “I always wanted to be an artist and didn’t to each other about how to elevate their work think it would really happen,” Givens said. “But Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@ and grow as artists. now I feel like maybe I might be.” santamariasun.com.

‘Full circle’ Three painters and longtime friends have their first show together at Gallery Los Olivos

R

COURTESY IMAGE BY KAREN MCGAW

COURTESY IMAGE BY CARRIE GIVENS

The community is invited to participate in a pumpkin decorating competition hosted by the Lompoc Public Library.

In the Book Character Pumpkin Contest, participants of all ages are challenged to turn a pumpkin into their favorite literary character.

Decorators can use real or fake pumpkins and gourds for their submission. They can decorate with supplies such as paint, glue, and other craft materials. Participants shouldn’t be afraid to get creative, but the library asks that no food be used.

After the decorating is done, bring the creations to the Lompoc Public Library between Oct. 13 and 18 to be on display. Public voting will take place in person at the library from Oct. 20 to 25. The winner will be announced on Oct. 27, and they’ll receive a prize and certificate.

The library, located at 501 E. North Ave. in Lompoc, is open Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday to Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Call (805) 875-8775 with questions. m Staff Writer Madison White compiles Arts Briefs. Send information to mwhite@santamariasun.com.

BEACHSIDE: Karen McGaw painted Leadbetter Evening around fall last year, highlighting the shadows and light on the cliffs at the Santa Barbara beach.

18 • Sun • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com

BERRY NICE: Using reference photos that she took in the field, Carrie Givens likes to paint produce growing on her organic farm.

Adoptable Pets of the Week

Scooby

Age: 11 months Breed: Hound/ Great Dane mix

Sex: Male Weight: 72 lbs.

Campus: Santa Barbara

Jeremiah

Age: 3 months Breed: Domestic

Shorthair

Sex: Female Weight: 4 lbs.

Campus: Santa Maria

All animals are health checked, spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

1687 West Stowell Road (Santa Maria)

(805) 964-4777 • sbhumane.org Adoption Center Hours are:

12:00-4:30pm, every day except Wed. AD PROVIDED BY

(805) 878-0807

What’s Your Take?

We know you’ve got an opinion.

Everybody’s got one!

How should the Santa MariaBonita district approach employees’ raise request? m Give at least an 8 percent raise—food service workers, custodians, etc., deserve more! m The current offer of 1 percent is adequate! m It should stop giving raises to administrators until this is negotiated. m I don’t know; I don’t live in that district.

This week’s online poll: 7/24 – 7/31 Enter your choice online at: NewTimesSLO.com

OCT 9 - 26, 2025 SEVERSON THEATRE, SANTA MARIA

P A C I F I C C O N S E R VA T O R Y T H E A T R E

S EA S ON | 62 25|26

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APR 23 - MAY 10, 2026 SEVERSON THEATRE, SANTA MARIA

JUN 11- 27, 2026 SOLVANG FESTIVAL THEATER

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FEB 26 - MAR 15, 2026

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TICKETS 805-922-8313 | PCPA.ORG| GROUPS* 805-928-7731 x.4150

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www.santamariasun.com • October 2 - October 9, 2025 • Sun • 19

Film

SUN SCREEN

Hold tight!

PHOTO COURTESY OF WARNER BROS.

I

shows up, Willa’s karate sensei, Sergio St. Carlos (Benicio del Toro), becomes instrumental to Bob’s mission to find Willa. It’s a helluva ride, with a wry sense of humor—very much a commentary on today’s America.

Anna: Perfidia is a natural leader—resolute, constant, and steely. Bob is the guy to go to when something needs blowing up—softer but still a resolute revolutionary. When Perfidia becomes a mother, her focus doesn’t shift to her new life the same way that Bob’s does. Baby or no baby, Perfidia won’t stop or slow her participation in revolutionary acts the French 75 are inciting.

Glen: Penn is the real star of this show. He The film’s first 30 minutes are frenetic dialogue thoroughly embodies Steve and carefully crafted chaos, Lockjaw, a military leader but when we pull back into the whose assignments always seem ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER larger scope of the story, it all to be running immigration swirls back into a much more What’s it rated? R detention facilities. Penn sticks complicated madness at hand.

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price his jaw out and struts around You are spot on about Penn’s What’s it worth, Glen? Full price like he’s got a steel rod shoved Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards performance as Lockjaw; he RPX Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc, up his ass that’s fused to his was so lost in the role there Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande, spine. His performance is were times that I questioned Fair Oaks riveting. As the film opens, who I was watching onscreen. members of the revolutionary You have to be committed for group French 75 are preparing this one at almost 2.75-hours, but Anderson does amazing work, and this is no to liberate his concentration camp and free exception. Poignant and relevant, it speaks to his prisoners. That sets up the ongoing tension the atrocities we see happening all around at this between Lockjaw, Bob, and Bob’s love interest very moment. and the mother of his future child, Perfidia Glen: It’s also a story about the families we Beverly Hills (Teyana Taylor), another French 75 choose. These revolutionaries believe in revolutionary. Along the way, ultra right-wing something greater than themselves … until nationalists get involved, and when Lockjaw nspired by Thomas Pynchon’s 1990 novel Vineland, writer-director Paul Thomas Anderson (Boogie Nights, Punch-Drunk Love, There Will Be Blood, The Master) weaves this story about Bob (Leonardo DiCaprio), a former revolutionary now living a paranoid existence off the grid with his daughter, Willa (Chase Infiniti). When Bob’s old nemesis, Col. Steven J. Lockjaw (Sean Penn), resurfaces after 16 years and Willa goes missing, Bob springs into action to find her while facing the consequences of his past. (108 min.)

HAUNTED: Leonardo DiCaprio stars as ex-revolutionary, Bob, who’s forced to confront his past when his daughter goes missing, in One Battle After Another, screening in local theaters.

they’re caught and trapped. Willa loves her dad, Bob, but also recognizes he’s broken. We all wish the world was right and just, but who’s willing to risk everything to change it? It’s a deeply complicated set of ideas Anderson is juggling, but that’s his M.O. as a filmmaker. He’s always ready to examine the complicated. He also embraces Pynchon’s sense of the absurd.

Characters named Lockjaw, Junglepussy, and Sergio St. Carlos? A white nationalist organization called the Christmas Adventurers Club? It’s brilliant and ridiculous, and I loved it.

Anna: I definitely felt some self-examination going on throughout. Where we land and what

COURTESY PHOTO BY GILES KEYTE/NETFLIX

THE THURSDAY MURDER CLUB

What’s it rated? PG-13 When? 2025 Where’s it showing? Netflix Based on Richard Osmen’s novel, this slice-of-life film follows three retirees who welcome in a new recruit to their whodunit club, The Thursday Murder Club. Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, and Ben Kingsley star as the founding members of the crew with Celia Imrie as their new recruit, Joyce. Joyce is a retired nurse, so her medical knowledge is a real get for the curious crew.

The group is bound and determined to solve every cold case that crosses their path, but it turns out they have a hot one on their hands when one of the owners of their retirement community turns up dead. The crew’s cozy lifestyle is threatened when the remaining owner, Ian (David Tennant), makes moves to turn the property into luxury rentals—ousting all the residents who call Coopers Chase home.

Cheesy as can be and light as air-popped popcorn, this straight-to-streaming flick boasts an impressive cast with a little too little to do, but these pros manage to keep the fun coming anyway. Anyone out there with a bit of armchair detective in them and an affection for these older stars will have fun watching them piece together this puzzle. (118 min.)

—Anna

we say we stand for and what we are willing to do can feel worlds apart. That’s how the masses get pushed down and stay down. This film doesn’t sugar coat or come with a bright light. Instead, I think Anderson hopes to leave us with both some resolve but also maybe a state of lostness.

History is happening, and complacency spells death for many, even if it isn’t you. All that said, I laughed so much. Anderson has a knack for getting the balance just right. See it! m New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen.

Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

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MURDERINOS: Ron (Pierce Brosnan), Ibrahim (Ben Kingsley), Elizabeth (Helen Mirren), and Joyce (Celia Imrie) are retirees and amateur sleuths, in The Thursday Murder Club, streaming on Netflix.

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Jake seems like he has it all. His restaurant is pumping, and his apartment is enviable, but he’s also bleeding money to pay for his son’s private school and alimony to his ex. He’s also sick of the grind of running a popular nightspot and being the one left standing every night to clean up after the party.

Then there’s Vince, who’s an absolute hot mess of a human being. A degenerate gambler, he returns to New York owning loan shark Joe Mancuso (Troy Kotsur) $140K in past debt.

The series busies itself with Jake and Vince trying to figure out how to make things right while juggling the issues of the many side players. All eight episodes are out now, making it very bingeable. It’s a gritty series about the limits of brotherly bonds. (eight 44- to 68-min. episodes) m —Glen

TROUBLE IN MIND: Brothers Jake (Jude Law) and Vince (Jason Bateman) navigate a dangerous criminal underworld as they operate a trendy NYC eatery, in Black Rabbit, streaming on Netflix.

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Eats

FOOD & DRINKS PHOTOS BY MADISON WHITE

MILK OR SUGAR? Hether Frias, a co-owner of One Room, sources China from thrift stores and accepts donations from customers, too. She stores extra dishes on display in cabinets throughout the café.

Time for tea HOMEY VIBES: One Room is a café that serves breakfast, lunch, coffee, tea, and baked goods. The owners also want it to be a community hub where people come to hang out and enjoy each other’s company.

Piping hot

One Room Escapes and Coffee is open Wednesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The restaurant is located at 113 N. A St. in Lompoc. Call (805) 430-8306 or visit oneroomcoffee.com to order online, check for upcoming events, and rent out the café or kids’ room.

“Tea is about time,” Hether said. “It is taking the time to just sit and to relax and connect with people.”

Some of the most popular events are seasonal tea parties. One Room plans to host a fall tea on Oct. 12 and a holiday tea and dessert tasting on Nov. 8. At the ticketed evening events, guests can sip reserve teas British-inspired afternoon tea sits at the top of a that are not typically on the menu.

Hether selects loose-leaf teas—green, black, and Lompoc café’s long list of offerings herbal—that are high quality and made by small

BY MADISON WHITE companies. There are usually seven or eight teas on the regular ustomers drive to Lompoc from as far as Los Osos for tea parties menu, she said, which rotates periodically.

While tea is a big reason customers return to One Room, the café at One Room Escapes and Coffee. It’s one of the only places on the Central Coast for a proper, yet affordable, afternoon tea with has more to offer. Hether mentioned that everyone has their own reason for visiting. Some come just to eat. tiny sandwiches and sweets served on dainty china.

“The common denominator is the fresh food and the aim for that Clusters of sofas and lounge chairs create smaller sitting rooms homemade feel,” John said. within the restaurant, inviting visitors to make themselves at home.

All the dishes on One Room’s brunch menu are made from Adding to the homey atmosphere, the tables are adorned with floral scratch. Crowd favorites include breakfast sandwiches, cinnamon tablecloths and the walls covered with artwork. rolls, soups, and chicken salad sandwiches.

“It’s always been family and friend oriented, and so I think the The couple also makes all the restaurant’s baked goods indécor kind of reflects that,” owner John Frias said. “A lot of people house—English muffins, bread, pastries, and scones. While it is a come and just hang out for a while.” team effort, John gives a lot of the credit to his wife for fine-tuning Out of One Room’s many highlights, John and his wife, Hether, their recipes. notice that many customers enjoy taking the time to experience “She’s a recipe savant, and she reads cookbooks the way the rest of afternoon tea. There are a few different services to choose from, but us read novels,” he described. tea generally includes a decadent two-tiered platter of bite-sized They make their dishes in-house to keep the food as healthy as sandwiches and desserts along with a steaming pot of tea. Think possible, which also gives them flexibility to cater to those with mini cucumber sandwiches, quiches, cheesecakes, and scones. dietary restrictions.

Since the Friases opened One Room in 2018, Hether was interested in building up their own British-inspired tea service, EATS continued page 22 which is now a significant portion of their business.

C

SAVORY AND SWEET: Afternoon tea at One Room costs about $32 and includes cucumber and chicken salad sandwiches, seasonal desserts, a scone with clotted cream and lemon curd, and a pot of tea. Diners with dietary restrictions can request accommodations when booking in advance.

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Eats

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As someone with gluten and dairy intolerances, Hether said she wants to provide meals that others with similar restrictions can enjoy because there aren’t a lot of options at most restaurants nearby. Since they make small batches of everything, they can cook vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options in the morning with enough advanced notice.

“It’s not just about health, but it’s about supporting people who have those kinds of needs,” John said.

John added that he is always conscious of pricing for the quality of PLAYTIME: Drawing from her days as a preschool food he serves. One Room sells a soup director, Hether Frias set up the back room of the box meal including a grilled cheese, a restaurant to be a kids’ zone. The background noise and cup of soup, a cookie, and a drink for music in the dining room help drown out the ruckus. about $15 and a quiche lunch combo for $12. while sipping coffee or nibbling on a pastry. From The budget-friendly thinking stems from the chess to Scattergories, floor-to-ceiling shelves couple’s experiences raising their children. John contain games for all ages. remembers not being able to go out to eat with “We’re hoping to provide opportunities when the whole family, not only because of the cost, but you come here that you’re interacting with the also because kids usually can’t sit still for too long. people you’ve come with,” John said.

Now with their own restaurant, John One of John’s dreams remains to finish and Hether molded it into a family-friendly building an escape room inside the café. After a community space. Inspired by Hether’s days as a career in software engineering, he’s now working homeschool teacher and preschool director, the full time at One Room and can give his whole back room of the eatery is a kids’ zone. She said attention to his vision. parents often come to enjoy a coffee while their “I have big dreams about where we can take kids play together. this,” John said.

“It’s like the park,” Hether said. “You meet new As the only employees besides two of their kids, families, and the kids play.” the couple is focused on meeting their diners’ The theme of the playroom changes monthly. demand.

Recently it’s transformed from a school to a “You serve good food and good company,” campground, she said, and up next is a pet Hether said, “and that’s all that really matters.” m hospital.

Families can also check out books from One Reach Staff Writer Madison White with a cup of Room’s vast collection, just like a library. tea at mwhite@santamariasun.com.

For older kids, there are plenty of games to play

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