SLO LIFE Magazine Apr/May 2025

Caring is what neighbors do best

Two hospitals — a network of imaging centers and medical offices — are here for you

Good neighbors make life better for one another. So while you’re there for those close to you, we’re now close by to help take care of you. Whether it’s an everyday matter or more serious concern, like neurosurgery, trauma support or NICU care, we’re here to help you stay healthy and ready for all you’re made for.

San Jose, CA

San Luis Obispo, CA

Easter

Now more than ever, we need Easter. No, I’m not talking about chocolate bunnies, Peeps, and Cadbury Cremes. What I have on my mind stretches much further back, all the way to the beginning. And that’s ultimately what Easter is all about: the beginning—a new beginning.

The origins of the holiday are fascinating. The word itself, Easter, is thought to be a derivative of Eastre (or Eostre), who was celebrated as the goddess of spring by ancient pagans on the British Isles. Later, Christians adopted the holiday in observance of the Resurrection. Over the years, the first Sunday after the full moon that follows the spring equinox is filled with familiar symbols— eggs, bunnies, and baskets.

Odds are exceedingly tiny that Easter will fall on the same day and month of any particular year. That is why my aunt, we call her Teta (teta is the word for aunt in Croatian), was so excited in 2008 when her father’s birthday (my grandfather) again fell on Easter. He had already passed away, but it was very unusual to see that date—March 23rd—turn up again so soon, just ninety-five years after his birth. The next time it will happen again is the year 2228.

Its rarity is partly what makes Easter so special. Easter Island got its name because Dutch explorers landed there on Easter Sunday in 1722. My grandfather, born on Easter in 1913, was also named after Easter. The translation for “Happy Easter” in Croatian is “Stretan Vazam.” The word Vazam means Easter, so he became Vazmoslav. And, I have always been grateful that my parents chose to name me after him, but truth be told, I’m glad they took his middle name, Thomas, instead. I’m not sure I would have survived junior high had I been named Vazmoslav.

No matter its history, or our personal connections to it, Easter is an idea—or perhaps an ideal—that we can all embrace. Redemption and renewal are foundational concepts for humankind. And I happen to believe that despite our many imperfections, each of us, in our own way, is striving to better ourselves—to do better, to be better—and Easter gives us the time and space to do so. Here on the Central Coast, the hills, our “sisters,” are a shimmering green. Everywhere and everything is blooming. The sun now makes a regular appearance. And, yes, those cute, little baby chicks are wobbling out of their shells.

There is a lot of craziness in the world, no doubt about it. A lot of bad. But also, a lot of good. It seems to me, though, that the further out you set your gaze, the worse things seem to be. The news outlets these days paint our country in dangerous, ominous, and dark strokes. But when I step away from it all and take a walk around my own neighborhood here in San Luis Obispo, I see good. I see people doing their best to make their way, to seek connection with others, to seek growth and improvement. And isn’t that the whole point?

Maybe the answer cannot be found through the screen of an iPhone. Maybe the answer can only be found within. Maybe loving your neighbor is the answer after all. And maybe Easter is an opportunity—the opportunity—to get started. A chance to begin again.

Thank you to everyone who had a hand in producing this issue of SLO LIFE Magazine and, most of all, to our advertisers and subscribers— we couldn’t do it without you.

Live the SLO Life!

Tom Franciskovich tom@slolifemagazine.com

Elder Placements realizes the IMPORTANCE of listening to the client, in order to find the appropriate:

Independent Living Assisted Living Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Homes

Let their experienced Certified Senior Advisors take you on a tour to find the Retirement Home or Community that fits your loved ones Medical, Financial and Social needs, at NO Cost to you.

Nicole Pazdan, CSA,

SLOLIFE magazine

4251 S. HIGUERA STREET, SUITE 800, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CALIFORNIA SLOLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

info@slolifemagazine.com (805) 543-8600 • (805) 456-1677 fax

PUBLISHER

Tom Franciskovich

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Sheryl Franciskovich

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Charlotte Alexander

Paulina Davie

Geneva Franciskovich

Dan Fredman

Paden Hughes

Jaime Lewis

Dana Lossing

Brant Myers

Brian Schwartz

Tim Townley

Tilly Wright

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Pete Biltoft

Rosa Clark

Emily DesJardins

Peter Heirendt

David Lalush

Mark Nakamura

Mariah Vandenberg

CONTRIBUTIONS

Have some comments or feedback about something you’ve read here? Or, do you have something on your mind that you think everyone should know about? Submit your story ideas, events, recipes, and announcements by visiting us online at slolifemagazine.com and clicking “Share Your Story” or emailing us at info@slolifemagazine.com. Be sure to include your full name and city for verification purposes. Contributions chosen for publication may be edited for clarity and space limitations.

ADVERTISING

If you would like to advertise, please contact Tom Franciskovich by phone at (805) 543-8600 or by email at tom@slolifemagazine.com or visit us online at slolifemagazine.com/advertise and we will send you a complete media kit along with testimonials from happy advertisers.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Ready to live the SLO Life all year long? It’s quick and easy! Just log on to slolifemagazine.com/subscribe. It’s just $24.95 for the year. And don’t forget to set your friends and family up with a subscription, too. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

NOTE

The opinions expressed within these pages do not necessarily reflect those of SLO LIFE Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written permission of the publisher.

CIRCULATION, COVERAGE, AND ADVERTISING RATES

Complete details regarding circulation, coverage, and advertising rates, space, sizes and similar information are available to prospective advertisers. Please call or email for a media kit. Closing date is 30 days before date of issue.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

info@slolifemagazine.com

4251 S. Higuera Street, Suite 800 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Letters chosen for publication may be edited for clarity and space limitations.

SLO LIFE TRAVELS

VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE

LISA SIMON

MARK TURNER and VALERIE JOHNSON

CABO SAN LUCAS

JOEL and ALEX KAWASHIMA

CLAUDIA TURNER

BROWN COUNTY, INDIANA

KERRY and KENSTON SHEETS

BALI

ERIC HOLMEN and SARAH SINDERMAN

CURAÇAO TOD and KRISTIN SAKAI WAIKIKI, HONOLULU, HAWAII

MAGONS, McRITCHIES, and WEBERS

ROBIN, SARAH, and ABIGAIL REED

2251 & 2255 STENNER CREEK RD offered at: $2,998,000

11260 AVION RD, ATASCADERO offered at: $989,000

1043 ELLA ST #14, SLO offered at: $689,000

2HOMES/5ACRES

VISTADORADO

SLOCONDO

1. PETE BILTOFT enjoys photographing nature, sports, and events, and loving life in San Luis Obispo with his wife, Cyndi. You can follow him on Instagram @pjbig01.

2. ROSA CLARK is a family photographer based in San Luis Obispo. You can see her work at rosaclarkphotography.com.

3. PAULINA DAVIE is a yoga teacher, writer, and astrologer specializing in AstroCartoGraphy, which can show you the best places to visit or move to. Learn more at paulinadavie.com.

4. EMILY DESJARDINS is an editorial photographer based out of her home town in San Luis Obispo County. Follow her on Instagram @emanatemoments.

5. San Luis Obispo local GENEVA FRANCISKOVICH has a passion for art and music and can usually be found surfing and sunbathing at the beach, hiking Central Coast trails, or enjoying a concert.

6. DAN FREDMAN is a SLO native immersed in the wine realm. He prefers LPs to streaming, Mac to PC, Fender over Gibson, and has nothing against screwcaps.

7. PETER HEIRENDT is a marketing creative producer and the founder of Shadowlight photography. You can follow him on instagram @shadowlightfoto.

8. PADEN HUGHES is an author, professional coach and co-founder of Gymnazo and enjoys exploring the Central Coast.

9. A Cal Poly alumnus with a background in Architectural and Product Design, DAVID LALUSH works as an architectural and real estate photographer on the Central Coast.

10. DANA LOSSING is an interior designer at SLO based Ten Over Studio with a passion for dancing, yoga-ing, thrift-shopping, and adventuring with her family locally and beyond.

11. JAIME LEWIS writes about food, drink, and the good life from her home in San Luis Obispo. Find her on Instagram and Twitter @jaimeclewis.

12. BRANT MYERS is a the founder at slobiiig.com, a hospitality consulting firm, and Toddler Timber, where he makes wooden children’s toys.

13. MARK NAKAMURA is a wedding, event, family, architectural, commercial, and landscape photographer. Find him @nakamuraphoto and @marknakamuraphoto.

14. BRIAN SCHWARTZ is a publishing consultant and advocate for local authors. He can be reached at brian@selfpublish.org.

15. MARIAH VANDENBERG has a background in neuroscience and is an active photographer, artist, musician, and outdoor enthusiast.

16. TILLY WRIGHT is a Central Coast blogger, web specialist, and software support professional. Connect with her at tillywright.com or read her blog at sanluisobispomom.com.

LOCAL

february 4

The SLO City Council adopts the 2025-29 “Lead by Example” work program, which outlines the City’s commitment to sustainability and climate action in municipal operations. Achieving carbon neutral municipal operations by 2030 is a council goal, and since 2021, the City has made significant progress, bringing in over $15.5 million to help fund implementation. Focus areas include transitioning the City’s fleet to zero-emission vehicles, transitioning fossil fuel appliances to efficient electric alternatives, encouraging sustainable commutes, and increasing waste diversion.

february 7

The City of San Luis Obispo and the SLO Museum of Art unveil a new public installation, “Along the Way,” by Tulsa-based fiber artist Rachel B. Hayes, in the Garden Street Alley downtown. The piece includes seven vibrant and textured textiles that Hayes custom fit into the environment. Inspired by modern quilts, abstract paintings, and covered open air bazaars around the world, this handmade artwork responds to the changing light of the day. The installation will be on view for one to two years.

also

february 7

The San Luis Obispo High School girls basketball team captures its league championship, defeating the Cabrillo Conquistadores 44-32 on the Tigers’ home court. It’s the team’s first Sunset League title since 2003, and advances the SLO women to 9-0 in Sunset League play and a 24-4 overall record, tying a win total set by the high school’s 1995 CIF championship team. The starting lineup of head coach Dan Monroe’s team: seniors Maile Abac, Bailey Hartford, and Jennifer Stambaugh, and juniors Skyler Katics, and Ali Abercromby.

february 15

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officials announce a decision to add monarch butterflies to the threatened species list by the end of 2025 after years of warnings from environmentalists that populations are shrinking and the pollinators may not survive climate change. The proposed listing would prohibit anyone from killing or transporting the butterfly within certain guidelines. The proposal also would designate 4,395 acres in seven coastal California counties, including San Luis Obispo—where monarchs west of the Rocky Mountains migrate for winter—as critical habitat for the butterfly.

february 25

The SLO County Board of Supervisors appoints Assistant County Counsel Jon Ansolabehere to lead the County Counsel’s office following the retirement of County Counsel Rita Neal. A graduate of Cal Poly with an undergraduate degree in political science and a master’s degree in public policy, he earned his law degree from Golden Gate University. The Creston resident worked in private practice locally before serving as assistant city attorney for the City of San Luis Obispo from 2013 to 2018, joining the County in 2019.

february 28

Led by head coach Terrance Harris, the Mission College Preparatory High School boys basketball team wins in double overtime with a final score of 63-59 over Central High to capture the Division 2 CIF-Central Section title at Selland Arena in Fresno. The team lineup includes Hunter Drake, David Kellogg, Colton Mott, Cannon Treanor, Cole Taylor, Jackson Esparza, Jacob Martinez and seniors Roman Benedetti, Armen Clayton, Kyson Hickman, Brody Miller, Charles Morrisey, Brayden Mott, Jayden Nozil, Ethan Orozco, and Stokes Wahlen.

REVIEW

march 7

Cuesta College announces the receipt of a $250,000 grant from Uplift Central Coast to help address the regional demand for skilled aviation technicians. Part of a $9 million regional initiative supporting economic growth and sustainability across six counties on the Central Coast, the money will fund a feasibility study for a permanent facility for the college’s aviation maintenance technician program that currently operates out of ACI Jet facilities at SLO County Regional Airport. A permanent state-of-the-art facility would help support the region’s projected job growth in aerospace technology.

march 8

The largest student media organization in the nation recognizes Cal Poly’s Mustang News, inducting it into the Associated Collegiate Press Hall of Fame during the Spring National College Media Conference awards ceremony. The student news organization has earned more than fifteen Pacemaker Awards and nominations—the Pulitzer Prizes of student journalism—since 1970. The accomplishment honors both current Cal Poly students and the past generation of students who have contributed to the campus news organization.

march 13

Community and state leaders come together to address SLO County’s housing challenges and work toward solutions to create housing opportunities during the 2025 SLO County Housing Summit. Keynote speaker Toni Atkins, former Senate Pro Tempore, says the housing crisis is affecting the state’s economy, while local government officials point to the need for collaboration across all levels of government to drive change in housing development. With the cost of a home nearly ten times the average annual income of local residents, a panel of young adults also offers fresh perspectives on housing solutions for the next generation of homeowners.

march 14

The Cal Poly men’s basketball team makes its bid to become the first in seventeen years to reach the Big West Championship title matchup in Henderson, Nevada, but the seventh-seeded squad is defeated in the semifinals by second-seeded UC Irvine, 96-78. Playing its third tournament game in three days, Cal Poly previously eliminated sixth-seeded UC Davis during the opening round and third-seeded UC Riverside in the quarterfinal. Under first-year head coach Mike DeGeorge, Cal Poly’s sixteen victories during the season marked a twelve-win improvement over the previous one.

march 15

On Opening Day at Laguna Middle School, more than 180 female athletes ages five to fifteen mark the beginning of the milestone thirty-fifth season of the SLO Girls Softball Association with a special guest in attendance. Olympian, professional softball player, and Cal Poly alum Sierra Hyland throws out the ceremonial first pitch, with ten matchups between teams from across SLO County and across all age divisions showcasing their dedication, teamwork, and love of the game.

The Great American Melodrama in Oceano has been entertaining theatre-goers from the Central Coast and beyond for half a century. This year, in addition to its usual mix of melodramas and the annual favorite “Holiday Extravaganza,” the company is planning a “50th Extravaganza” in the fall.

“I have never met a more optimistic person full of such kindness—she loves her family, her work, and this community with a passion.”

Debby Nicklas describes her friend, community leader Mary Verdin, as she was named the 2024 Citizen of the Year in recognition of her unparalleled service to the community of San Luis Obispo during the SLO Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner in January.

+13%

The number of travelers passing through the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport was up in 2024, setting a record for the highest number of passengers ever seen. Travelers increased from a record 660,745 in 2023 to 746,764 this year.

million

The Department of Education has defunded two Cal Poly initiatives, $4.6 million from the INSPIRE program and the rest from the TIER program, which would have supported 1,350 local teachers and at least 75,600 students in San Luis Obispo County over the next five years.

REACH 2030 + Beyond $5

9,119

The recently-released annual Western Monarch Count reported the secondlowest overwintering population of western monarch butterflies ever recorded since tracking began in 1997. Pismo State Beach, one of the top four overwintering sites, recorded just 556 monarchs last year.

The REACH coalition set out to ensure current and future generations have a place to build a life, family, home, and career on the Central Coast. Now its five-year goals have been updated to expand good-paying jobs, empower people with accessible career paths, and enable workforce housing.

“Happy Valentine’s Day! We love our seniors!”

$74.8 billion

San Luis Obispo County’s total gross assessed value has increased more than five percent over the previous year, according to the County Assessor’s 2024 Annual Report. Much of that value was propelled by the valuations of the area’s 112,697 single-family residences.

$868,597

For the fifth year in a row, the City of SLO partnered with the SLO Chamber of Commerce during the 2024 holiday season to bring a “Buy Local” bonus program to the community, resulting in a recordbreaking 685% return on the city’s initial $115,000 investment.

That’s just one of the many cheerful messages inside more than 1,300 handmade cards that were donated and delivered to SLO County seniors on Valentine’s Day through Meals That Connect. The cards helped remind recipients that they are a very special part of the community.

The number of paramedic graduates honored in February with a special coin and pinning ceremony at Cuesta College. The three-semester program, taught at Cuesta’s SLO campus, prepares students to take the national registry examination and later obtain their California paramedic license.

MAJESTIC

BY MARK NAKAMURA

Not too long ago, Mike, Sean, and I hiked to Buckeye Campground, located just north of the San Luis Obispo and Monterey County line along the rugged coast. Over the decades, we’ve returned to this area for countless day hikes and backpacking trips. The hike to Buckeye Campground is a relatively short, six-mile round trip, starting with parking at the ranger station just north of the Salmon Creek Trailhead.

On this particular morning, we were greeted by a scene that felt almost magical—a majestic oak tree, shrouded in a thick blanket of mist, stood not far from the campground. Hidden deep in the forest, its vast limbs stretched upward, seemingly reaching for the heavens, as if praying to God, to borrow the imagery from Joyce Kilmer’s poem “Trees.”

I think that I shall never see A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day, And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in Summer wear A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain; Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me, But only God can make a tree.

The tree was so enormous that it was impossible to capture in a single photograph, so I took six, slowly moving from left to right, each shot revealing a different part of its grandeur.

Back at home, I stitched the images together in Lightroom and made a few adjustments—adjusting the contrast and using some burning and dodging techniques in Photoshop to bring out the tree’s ethereal presence.

Living so close to the ocean and the mountains is a true blessing. Los Padres National Forest, with its dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems, is just a short drive away, with Cuesta Grade acting as a natural gateway. We are also fortunate to be at the doorstep of Big Sur, one of California’s most iconic coastal regions, where the rugged cliffs meet the vast, untamed Pacific. As the poet Gary Snyder wrote, “Nature is not a place to visit, it is home.” This unique proximity to both the coast and the mountains offers not only breathtaking natural beauty but also an endless array of opportunities for exploration and adventure, as well as a deep connection to the land, making it feel as though we are part of something much larger and timeless.

Thomas Kessler

We were treated to a fascinating history lesson one recent morning when THOMAS KESSLER, Executive Director of the History Center of San Luis Obispo County, dropped by for a visit. Here are a few highlights from our conversation . . .

Okay, Thomas, let’s start with a little bit of your own personal history.

Oh, okay, yes. I grew up in the East Bay, Walnut Creek. But my grandparents lived in Morro Bay and a lot of my best childhood memories were here on the Central Coast. I was a reader, a big-time reader. A quiet kid. Didn’t do sports but was good at academics. I went to UC Davis for college and studied International Relations. I did a year abroad in Paris at a French language school called the Institut D’études Politiques. It was an amazing experience, and it really deepened my love of history.

Why history?

Well, history is the basis of everything. I mean, if we talk about science or physics, for example, it’s all based on applied math, right? Math is the foundation of science. But, when you start talking about the humanities—anthropology, sociology, political science—all of that is applied history. It’s where we come from. It’s who we are. The direction that we are going in right now is a result of decisions made by the people who came before us. And, so, understanding those decisions helps us get a grasp on where we are. When you understand history, you can see that where we are—who we are—is not a coincidence.

What do most of us fail to understand about San Luis Obispo history?

The diversity. We have been much more diverse in the past than we are now. When I first moved here, I remember searching something on Google and the map that popped up mentioned, “Japantown.” I said to myself, “Wait, that’s not Japantown, that’s a Jiffy Lube.” But then I did a little research and found there were, in fact, Japanese-Americans who built up a community there before they were displaced during the World War II internment. And, as many people know, downtown San Luis Obispo had a Chinatown

that, at one time, was a major, vibrant community. There are still a couple of remnants along Monterey Street that you can see today, like the Ah Louis Building.

What other ethnicities were represented here?

Well, of course, you had the original natives, the Chumash and the Salinans. We also had a major Filipino community. Their roots here go back to the 1500s when they first set foot in Morro Bay during the Spanish galleon era. There’s a long connection between the Central Coast and the Philippines. And, of course, this entire area was part of Mexico until 1848. I mean, think about that. From a historical perspective, it wasn’t that long ago that this was actually Mexico. The American Army was here. General Fremont set up his headquarters in the mission and San Luis Obispo—right here where we are sitting and talking—was

Yes, but here’s the really interesting part: When the war ended and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed, the Mexican border was moved, not the people. Under the agreement, everyone who lived here became American citizens. Locally, they became known as “Californios,” essentially Spanishspeaking people who had been Mexican citizens living in Mexico but were now American citizens living in America. And, in many cases, they were allowed to keep the land they owned prior to the war, which became known as the California ranchos and ranchitos. But, because Mexico did not charge property taxes and did not have a very developed monetary system—they still operated largely on a trade, or barter, basis—many of those landowners were unable to afford their properties, so they were often sold and divided and bought up over time by newly arrived immigrants, including the Portuguese and the Italians. It’s a fascinating history.

Dusty Souls

BY GENEVA FRANCISKOVICH

With a perfect mix of timeless rock and youthful energy, Dusty Souls bring a vibrant musical experience to the Central Coast, delivering a sound that resonates with both seasoned rock fans and new listeners alike.

Fresh to the music scene in San Luis Obispo, Dusty Souls formed a year ago, melding old friends and new acquaintances. The band quickly developed a repertoire of original songs with a unique style. While they classify their genre as “alt rock, but psychedelic,” they enjoy crossing boundaries, incorporating elements of reggae and funk, as well. As saxophonist Kaden Anderson aptly puts it, “We genre-hop, but we’ve got to stop.” This ability to tap into different musical styles allows the band to tailor their performances for the best possible listener experience.

Although the band is new, its roots go back much further, to two young boys from Sebastopol. Just off the Bohemian Highway, lead singer and guitarist Dustin “Dusty” Spelman and drummer Soul Berna were once two kids running around with tambourines in their hands and smiles on their faces, supporting percussion for their hometown bands. Berna recalls these times as some of his fondest childhood memories. Music formed the foundation of their long-running friendship. Berna explains that his dad, who is involved in the music community up north, plays multiple shows a week. Surrounded by his father’s instruments in his childhood garage, Berna taught himself how to play anything he could get his hands on. Spelman, always eager to join in, would tag along in jam sessions and attend as many concerts as possible with Berna’s family—including one of their favorite festivals, High Sierra.

Spelman and Berna drew musical inspiration from rock bands like Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin and integrated these influences into their style when they began performing at open mics throughout Northern California. After receiving positive feedback from the community back home, they decided to continue their musical journey when it was time to attend college in SLO. Looking to reconnect with familiar faces on the coast, they reached out to an old friend, Kaden Anderson, also from Sebastopol, who happens to play the sax.

When Anderson was accepted to Cal Poly, his father was excited for him to experience life in one of his favorite communities. His dad, a native of the area, enjoyed the

coastal lifestyle for years, often riding his bike to the beach to surf by Morro Rock. With his father’s blessing, Anderson packed his belongings, including his saxophone, and made the move. The three friends landed a house in SLO and decided to move in together. In free time between classes, Anderson continued to hone his skills on the sax, and it didn’t take long for Spelman and Berna to transform their garage into a jam studio. Thus, the spark for Dusty Souls was ignited.

Eager to build on this new venture, the three roommates settled on their roles and began recruiting musicians to complete their sound. With Anderson playing the sax, Spelman stood as lead singer and guitarist, and Berna took his spot at the drum kit. Bringing in new friends rounded out the group with Otis McLoughlin on keyboard and Jude Callahan on bass guitar.

McLoughlin brings a fun twist to the band with his synthesized keys, which can be heard in their new lineup of songs. He has a passion for improvisation in jam sessions, which carries over into the band’s live performances. Originally from a small town in Colorado near Telluride, McLoughlin’s musical influences come from his hometown’s bluegrass scene.

And while four of the bandmates bring stylistic influences from out of the area, Callahan was born and raised in SLO. Growing up in the local music scene, he can be spotted from time-to-time at house shows around town. A competitive basketball player throughout his life, Callahan still made time to immerse himself in music and learn both piano and guitar. In addition to his role as bassist for Dusty Souls, he works in his family’s ice cream catering business, SLO Mama Sweets, known for their vintage ice cream truck. Callahan has also explored music production on his own as a singer-songwriter under the name Natural Hex. Songs from his album Hillcrest Recordings, which blends post-punk, alternative rock, and electronic music, can be found on Apple Music and Spotify.

Together, the five members create something truly special. As Spelman puts it, “You really just have to come and see it; it’s hard to even explain.” Each member brings immense talent and creativity, but the band believes their collective efforts elevate the music they create together. Callahan adds that the energy from the crowd during their live performances further fuels their shows.

The band can be found performing around town, gracing the stages of SLO Brew Rock, The Siren, and Libertine. They have also gained a following at Krobar Craft Distillery, where they perform in a more relaxed setting. The band agrees that their music offers something for everyone, and they are excited to continue performing for a diverse audience. SLO LIFE

pro file

In 1989, Shell Beach resident C.J. SILAS made history. She was the first woman ever to announce a professional baseball game. It wasn’t the big leagues, but it was the next best thing, just one rung below, the Toronto Blue Jays’ Triple-A team in New York. Thirty-five years later, she found herself in the press box perched above the diamond in Oracle Park, announcing seven games for the San Francisco Giants as a finalist for that role. While she has endured countless setbacks in her career as a sports broadcaster, she has never given up, has never strayed from her roots, and has never forgotten what it was like to be a kid, mesmerized by the sound of the game crackling through an A.M. radio. Here is her story . . .

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY DESJARDINS

LLet’s talk about where you’re from originally.

I was born and raised in Bel Air, West L.A., right near UCLA. It’s a very wealthy area, but there was so much drama. My dad was a womanizer. We lost the house and went on food stamps. My parents divorced when I was in junior high, and we moved to Sherman Oaks in the valley. My grandma took care of us during that time. She was a big sports fan—Dodgers, Lakers, Rams, UCLA-everything—she always had the game on. One day, as we were watching together, I asked her, “Why aren’t there any girls on the team?” She answered by telling me about Jackie Robinson. I was so inspired by his story that I tried out for Little League.

How did that go?

I ended up being one of the first girls in L.A. to play. That’s really where it all began; it’s where I got my drive and passion for sports. I went on and played everything in high school, everything. I lettered in four sports. It was my release, my escape. It’s how I dealt with the poverty and all the turmoil. But, still, I was a difficult kid. I got in trouble at school a lot because I was always trying to be the comedian, always talking back to the teacher, always had something to say. Just wouldn’t shut up.

What happened after high school?

I went to USC. I ran track there. But I was coming to the end of my athletic ability, finishing last in every race. So, I transferred to Syracuse and was able to get faster to the point where I was consistently coming in second-to-last. But I chose it because they have this very high-end broadcasting school there, people call it “Sportscaster U.” There were two radio stations on campus. It was amazing and my first job was at ESPN in Bristol, Connecticut as a production assistant. But I could see that there wasn’t going to be much opportunity for me there. I didn’t want to be in production, I wanted to be on the air.

So, what did you do?

sent me to the post office to ask people in Nebraska what they thought about what was happening in my hometown. That was it. I had to leave.

Where did you go?

I moved back home and did a little bit of everything to make ends meet—worked at a restaurant, got some work on a radio show called Talk2 with Jim Rone, and did some production work for ESPN Sunday Night Baseball. Those were some crazy years. I played second base on a softball team made up of a bunch of restaurant workers. My buddy, Ron Goldman, was the shortstop. One day, he doesn’t show up because, as the entire world learned, he was murdered by O.J. Simpson. It was awful. Just awful. So, then, because of all that, there was this guy who had a newsletter he’d fax out to radio stations around the country. He talked me into reporting on the trial. In the newsletter, it said, “C.J. Silas will cover the O.J. Simpson trial for your station.” So, I became a stringer on the trial where my friend was killed.

Wow, what was that like?

Reliving the details over and over again was torture. I just wanted to get away from it. So, out of the blue, one of the radio stations I was stringing for in Seattle calls me up and says, “Hey, do you want to come up here and produce a new midday radio show? We’ll bring you in and we’ll pay you $18,000 a year.” So, I left L.A. before the trial had even ended. I couldn’t get out of there fast enough. I did the show and, for one of those years, I was a soccer announcer for the Seattle Sounders when they were this teeny, little A-league that played in a 500-seat stadium. I was doing whatever I could to break into sports broadcasting. More than anything, I wanted to get into baseball.

What was your role there?

I was the producer on the show. I booked the guests and did all the research. These guys Mitch and Fish were the hosts. I would come in and be the third voice. The hosts had mic control, which meant they could turn mine on or off. It was great at first, I was able to contribute to the conversation, but then one day they start this NCAA Tournament-style ranking of women, pitting one against another. Like, “Who’s hotter, this one or that one?” And they turn my mic on and ask me what I thought. I was shocked. I didn’t know what to say. I was just trying to survive. I could only come up with something like, “Uh, this is weird . . . I don’t know.” It went downhill from there

I left. People thought I was crazy. I was hired by a little T.V. station in Hastings, Nebraska, an NBC affiliate, to do the cut-ins for the Olympics—this was during the summer of ’92. When I got there, this crazy news director said, “Uh, no, that’s not what you’re going to do.” Instead, my beat was the county assessor’s office. I lasted four months, three weeks, and six days. The last straw was when the Rodney King riots broke out. They >>

and got to the point where Mitch never turned my mic on again. I sat there in silence for five months. And do you know what I did? I thought about Jackie Robinson.

What came to mind?

You know how people say, “What would Jesus do?” I ask myself, “What would Jackie do?” Here I am, a woman trying to break into the most male-dominated industry facing massive headwinds. Still, it’s nothing like Jackie had to deal with. I’ve always told myself that whatever happens to me could never be as bad as what happened to him. He’s been my guide on this journey—my spirit guide, my angel. I wanted to be like Jackie but for girls. I decided that I wanted to do this for them. To show everybody it can be done. There were so many other things that happened there at that station—stuff I can’t repeat. And no matter how many times I talked to the general manager

about it, he’d just shrug and say, “Well, he’s the host.” I will admit that I did feel somewhat vindicated when I heard later that Mitch finally had been fired after getting busted in a prostitution sting.

I know we’re skipping past a lot of your career, but let’s hear about how you ended up here.

I was working in Florida hosting my own show on the Miami Dolphins Radio Network when I decided it was time to come back. So, I drove up and down California, stopping in everywhere I could, including Sunny Country 102.5 F.M. in Santa Maria. The program director was there, and he said, “Well, it’s not a sports station, but you can come be my morning co-host.” At the same time, Cal Poly was building Baggett Stadium, and I got the job as their baseball announcer. I’ve been doing that for twenty-three years now. I also got involved in roller derby here on the Central Coast. Did that for >>

ELEVATE YOUR KITCHEN DESIGN BY PAYING ATTENTION TO THE LITTLE DETAILS WITH GE’S MONOGRAM APPLIANCE COLLECTION.

With the reliability and legacy of GE at their core, Monogram appliances are thoughtfully designed down to the very last touch:

• Integrated lighting for a radiant glow

• Hidden control panels

• Honed brass and titanium finish options

• Customizable handles

After all, presentation is everything. Exclusively at Idler’s Home

many years. I went by DodgeHer Blue and my number was J.R. 42. In 2017, my body just couldn’t take it anymore, so I became a skating official, basically a referee on wheels, which I still do now. I love it. It’s so much fun.

What was next up for you?

Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. I don’t know what happened or why, but I felt compelled to go there to help. I volunteered with the Red Cross, and when I came back, I don’t know, I was just a different person. It gave me an entirely new perspective. I realized how hard I was pushing to bust into sports broadcasting, how tired I was, how beat up I felt. That’s when I started writing it all down, all the crazy stuff I experienced as a woman in the business. It was very cathartic, just to get it all out. Then, Alan Hancock called. They needed a broadcaster for their football program, which I still do to this day,

along with baseball and softball over there. But no matter how hard I tried; I just couldn’t let radio go. It’s in my blood. I mean, I grew up idolizing Vin Scully and Chick Hearn. This is who I am.

So, where did you go with it?

I decided to start my own program: The C.J. Silas Show. I called our local ESPN affiliate, 1280 A.M., and said, “I want to buy some airtime—an hour each week.” They told me the only spot available was for seven o’clock on Sunday mornings. I said, “I’ll take it!” That was thirteen years ago now. It’s been an amazing run. And, along the way, I’ve been trying to become a Major League Baseball announcer. I’ve come close. In 2021, I was a finalist for the Cubs. In 2022, I was a finalist for the Atlanta Braves. I was a finalist for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2023. And last year, I was a finalist for the San Francisco Giants. I did seven games for them. That was the best, >>

"Graham's knowledge, experience and connections in the area are invaluable. It was clear from beginning to end that we were working with someone of utmost integrity. No pressure, no rushing, no vague information or unfounded promises. Searching for and buying a home was as stress free as it could be when we knew we could count on Graham to work in our best interests.”

- Tony and Patricia, San

graham @ ccreslo.com

805.459.1865 | Lic. #01873454

www.ccreslo.com

Local, honest expertise for home buyers and sellers 250+ transactions closed within the last ten years Your home may be worth more than you think. Call or text Graham at 805- 459 -1865 to find out

3220 South Higuera #233, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Expert help just when you need it. Since 1988, we’ve served SLO with unparalleled Medicare and insurance services. Let us help you get the coverage you need today.

1443 Marsh St, San Luis Obispo, CA (805) 544-6454 | www.polkins.com Agency Lic# 0D44015

Luis Obispo

most incredible experience of my life. And I nailed it. I was flawless. Doing opening day at Oracle Park was a dream. And, in those months that followed, I rode a massive wave, just an incredible high.

What Came Next?

It all came crashing down. When I learned that I didn’t get the job, I was devastated in a way I didn’t know was possible. All these emotions came roaring back. I was that little girl again finishing up Little League and told I couldn’t go on to play ball at the next level with the boys. All the harassment, all the crap I have gone through in my broadcasting career. Just, like, Bam ! It was about a month later, I couldn’t get out of bed. My body stopped working. I went into a paralysis. There was zero medical reason for it. But, from my waist to the top of my head, I couldn’t move, the pain was so awful. I know it sounds crazy, and you can believe whatever you want to believe, but I am telling you, I could not move. It was terrifying. I tried massage, saunas, chiropractic. Nothing worked. Until l confronted myself. I spent six weeks with my demons dealing with my grief, the pain of every rejection, every disappointment, all of it. You hear about people hitting rock bottom in alcoholism, or gambling, with addictions. Let me tell you, it’s a real thing. I hit rock bottom in my career.

How do you define rock bottom?

I reached my limit on how much disappointment, resentment, anger, bitterness, pain, and rejection I could endure. Some might

say, “Well, you did it. You got your stint in the major leagues. You must be satisfied.” Well, on the contrary, I’m now hungrier than ever. And I’m more ready because I’m not going to walk into a single stadium with a doubt in my mind that I’m not the best announcer they could get. So, now I’m at a point again here where I’m ready for the next one. I’m heading to Miami to audition for the Marlins next month. I can’t wait. I’m ready. And I know that no one in this country has as much experience, as much baseball knowledge, and time on the mic in a stadium as me. There isn’t unless he’s already doing it.

What’s on your mind lately?

You know, I’m thinking about how I get to create this beautiful radio show with these amazing interns. I’m thinking about how I get to teach all these kids who come to me through Cal Poly broadcasting. I get to have experiences with all these young people, which never meant anything to me before the C.J. Silas Show; now I get to teach, which is amazing. I think about how lucky I am to announce baseball games at Cal Poly, and football games at Hancock. How lucky I am to referee roller derby. And, you know, I think about this guy, Charlie Wright, who was on KIIS F.M., he was the sports guy. I loved that guy. He would come on every twenty minutes to update the scores. I can still hear his voice. And, he would always say the same thing at the end: “Keep your eye on the ball.”

459 words with Feben Teffera

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETER HEIRENDT

I was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and moved to New York City when I was eleven years old. My childhood in Ethiopia was beautiful. I grew up in a big and extremely loving family. My parents divorced when I was two years old, and my mom, my brother, and I moved to my grandmother’s house where we grew up. It created a bond with my family, which, to this day, is still a strong pillar of support for my brother and me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without all the love and support from family. My girlfriends and my family keep me going.

My background and education is in Information Technology. I went to school at Marymount Manhattan College, then NYU. I was in corporate for over fifteen years as a network manager. I started exploring design and art after I married and was a stay-at-home mom and had time to think outside of my regular training. What started it all was when I wanted to make clothing for my son. I didn’t like what was available for boys—everything seemed boxy and uninteresting—so I decided to learn how to make kids’ clothing. Long story short, I studied under a master tailor when we lived in Savannah, Georgia, and learned how to

make clothing. I quickly moved into making women’s clothing. I then started my business, FabyCo, and incorporated leather work later. My husband was in the military, and we moved a lot. I felt I needed something that was my own that I could take with me every time I had to start over in a new place. I absolutely love fashion and design.

While I am formally trained in making clothing, I am self-taught with my leather work. I am learning every day. The formal training of course made my work clean and professional, but with leather, I am kind of happy that I don’t have training, I love the idea of a ‘beginners mind’ since I do things with leather that is really not expected from leather work. I get to play around and break the rules. Everything at FabyCo is made by hand, by me, it’s a one woman show.

Nature, random shapes, and colors at unexpected places inspire me. Especially color—the use of color in many countries like Morocco, India, and those in the Caribbean gives me so much joy and inspiration. My biggest thing, in life in general, is that there is beauty in everything—especially small everyday things. Not cutting corners on beautifying our everyday lives and spaces, creating small corners in our homes—work space just for beauty, not function, but strictly beauty—can add so much to our mental health and daily dose of joy.

Sue Sacks & Kelly Sinnock

Memories of the Future

On Friday, February 21, SLOMA members and community leaders gathered to celebrate the premiere of Esteban Cabeza de Baca: Memories of the Future at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art. Cabeza de Baca’s paintings dance between histories, landscapes, and time – speaking to his ancestry and inviting visitors to consider all stories of immigration, Indigenous identity, and resistance.

Guests toasted the exhibition, cheered for its generous sponsors, and enjoyed wines hosted by wine partner La Lomita Wines.

Memories of the Future is open through June 22, 2025. The San Luis Obispo Museum of Art is open Thursday—Monday, 11 AM to 5 PM. Free admission. Visit sloma.org for public events calendar.

Photos courtesy of App’s Photography.

Embracing the Light

Carolyn Rohrbach’s Journey from Fear to Healing Through Hospice Care

BY BRIAN SCHWARTZ

Carolyn Rohrbach moved to the Central Coast nearly twenty years ago from the Bay Area to raise her two children. From a young age, she grappled with a deep, crippling fear of death. Inspired by Oprah’s words in the ‘90s—“People fear what they do not understand”—Rohrbach became a volunteer in hospice care, where death is a constant presence. Over time, she advanced to the role of hospice volunteer coordinator and pursued further education, eventually earning a master’s degree in Spiritual Discernment.

As a spiritual counselor for hospice patients, Rohrbach’s role was to bridge the gap between the physical and emotional aspects of dying. She sat beside patients through their darkest days and their brightest, helping them navigate the emotional rollercoaster of grief while encouraging them to reflect on their lives.

Her book, “Glint of Light: Twenty-Three End-of-Life Stories,” is a collection of letters written to her favorite patients, born from her need to process grief and preserve their memories. These twenty-three deeply personal accounts offer insight into her time with dying patients and aim to transform the fear of death

into a richer understanding of life. The letters also brought unexpected comfort to the families of her patients.

Rohrbach was one of the first employees of what would later become the largest hospice provider in San Luis Obispo County, Central Coast Home Health and Hospice. She credits Elizabeth Kübler-Ross for the development of hospice as a federally funded program, available to anyone, regardless of background. She believes that hospice volunteers, along with nurses, social workers, and spiritual counselors, are integral to the healing process, and this remains one of her proudest achievements. In helping to establish best practices for hospice care in SLO County, Rohrbach helped create a unique community of compassionate professionals dedicated to their patients.

Throughout her career, maintaining professional boundaries was a continuous challenge. Despite her best efforts, she acknowledges that certain patients “wiggled their way in” behind her professional armor. Yet, Rohrbach sees this vulnerability as part of the privilege of the work she does. She believes that having “waffly professional boundaries” was one of the reasons she was able to connect so deeply with those in her care.

“Falling in love with so many people and losing them” was, Rohrbach says, both beautiful and heartbreaking. “Sitting with someone in the midst of their darker feelings can actually be a rich compost pile,” she reflects. “It was such a gift to watch people grow. There are no cures in hospice care, but there can certainly be healing.”

Hospice workers often face overwhelming caseloads, sometimes managing thirty or forty patients at once. Without sufficient time to grieve themselves, they are at high risk for compassion fatigue and burnout.

The profound lesson of confronting death is that it forces us to examine how we live—and for many, the ultimate challenge is learning how to let go.

Carolyn Rohrbach will hold a book signing on April 26th at 2:00 p.m. at Volumes of Pleasure in Los Osos. For more information, visit CarolynRohrbach.com. SLO LIFE

GROUNDBREAKING

Linda Rojas STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

With the 1st place win at El Credo Sectional Competition under her belt, this San Luis Obispo High School senior and Elks Lodge Student of the Year is headed toward a successful future.

What extracurricular activities are you involved in? This year, I am beyond honored to be serving as the ASB President and last year I served as the Activities Commissioner. I’ve also been an active member of FFA throughout my four years at SLO High where I’ve been involved in a multitude of ways—Opening and Closing ceremonies is something I’ve competed in for four consecutive years, winning first place as the President on my team this year. On top of that, I have also participated in the only speaking competition that is fully in Spanish. For the past two years, I’ve been the Club President of Movimiento Estudiantil Xicano de Aztlán (MEXA) Club, and before that I was the Social Media Manager and also served as Secretary. I’m also a Varsity Cheer Student Athlete, as part of both Cheer and STUNT teams since my sophomore year.

What do you like to do for fun? Whenever my dad and I have aligning free time, we will go on a hike, just the two of us, as we’ve been doing since I was in elementary school. And, every Friday night, my mom, brother, and I pick a different restaurant that we have not yet tried, and will have dinner while we catch up on our week due to the fact that we are all so busy and have very different work and school schedules.

What makes up some of your favorite memories? Being a part of the cheer team has definitely given me some of the best memories and friendships. Everything from the beginning of learning a new halftime routine to the last touchdown of a game is held very closely to my heart. I especially enjoyed traveling to away games, as it was a chance for our team to bond and laugh. Every bus ride we’d sing our entire way there and back. It felt like we were one big family, supporting each and everything we did. I will always treasure that sense of unity and connection.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? I’ d like to be focused on traveling to various parts of the world while simultaneously working on advancing and growing whichever business venture I choose to pursue. Preferably, I’d love to be overlooking my own winery.

Where do you get your inspiration? My mom is definitely the hardest worker I know. Not only is she my built-in best friend, but she’s also been my lifelong teacher, guiding me with wisdom and love. Through every challenge, she’s always there by my side, offering support and encouragement. She’s the most courageous person I know, and for that she unknowingly pushes me to my fullest potential.

What schools are you considering for college? I’m considering Cal Poly for Agriculture Business and UC Davis for Viticulture. SLO LIFE

Mia and Brodie

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSA CLARK

These two-year-old Shetland Sheepdogs are more than just friends. When Cori Koehler enrolled Mia in class at Gentle Touch Pet Training, she was surprised to meet another Sheltie named Brodie. As Koehler chatted with Brodie’s caretaker, Nancy Moore, they quickly discovered that Mia and Brodie were siblings. Since then, the bond between the two pups—and their owners—has only grown stronger. With weekly playdates and regular meetups, their friendship is a joy for everyone involved. SLO LIFE

Cori Koehler and Mia

Nancy Moore and Brodie

Quiet Comfort

BY DANA LOSSING

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID LALUSH

IIt was June of 2023 when Jackie Lee moved into her new home—a one-bedroom, 1,200 square foot Spanish-Style casita she’d been dreaming of since she was a child. Lee describes her new home as a “glass box in the middle of the nature that’s always been here.” It’s not uncommon for her to wake up to deer grazing a few feet from the sliding door of her bedroom. Like living in an observatory, they make eye contact, and then much to her delight, proceed with their business. Hawks and eagles command the air, coyotes howl in unison most nights, and the same owl swoops down, taking post on her clay tile roof in the evening. These wild residents have always called this place home—Lee is simply their newest neighbor.

Lee’s parents bought this property in San Luis Obispo back in the 1970s after relocating from the Pasadena area of Los Angeles. They sought a quieter setting surrounded by nature, a piece of land they could enjoy together with their five kids. From the beginning, family was the central pulse of the story.

When her parents passed a few years back, Lee inherited the property, which contained only their triple-wide mobile home. As the new owner, Lee spent the first few years researching her options for building, knowing the land required significant work before construction could even begin. >>

After years of saving, living in a spare room at her sister’s house, and navigating land-use regulations, Lee was finally able to fund her project and begin designing her home with architect and friend Jessica Lehrbaum Carlberg.

Lee knew exactly where she wanted the house to sit and which views she wanted to frame. She had the advantage of not only visiting the land frequently while growing up but also living there with her parents in their final years. During this time, she became familiar with the surrounding environment, wildlife, and how the different seasons interacted with it. She formed a relationship with the property and fell in love.

Lee envisioned a Spanish Revival-style home, a tribute to her Mexican heritage and reminiscent of the architecture of her childhood home in Southern California. She dreamed of a space where her family could gather and continue the legacy her parents began. To build this vision, she worked with general contractor Pat Collins of Kimball Brown Construction, Inc. She personally chose each Talavera tile that made it into her home with loving consideration, sourcing them herself to save where she could on the build. The front patio consists of flagstone pavers from Central Coast Landscape Products, Saltillo tile from a private source in Solvang, and a stunning cement fountain that she found secondhand online and transported from Santa Ynez. The exterior stairs are clad in Mexican Talavera and Saltillo tiles in a pattern that Lee designed herself. >>

I worked as Lee’s interior designer, and together we thoughtfully created spaces to display her cherished collections and existing artwork. Such design details include arched plaster bookshelves with recessed lighting and alder millwork, stained a rich brown to complement the exposed ceiling beams, fireplace mantel, flooring, and knotty alder front doors. The custom kitchen cabinets and central island are painted a bold cobalt blue, topped with a solid surface terracotta-look Dekton countertop from Pacific Shores in Arroyo Grande. The custom Talavera tile backsplash design pulls all the colors together in a playful, cohesive way.

Smooth, thick plaster arches surround the primary shower, while an emerald-green Talavera tile wainscot wraps the bathroom walls. The floors are paved with six-inch hexagonal cotto tiles sourced by Charles Quinn at his former showroom in SLO. Custom, wrought-iron bathroom accessories and curtain rods from Paso Ironworks dress the walls and wrap around the more private-facing windows dressed with linen curtains. Light fixtures were carefully sourced from various manufacturers, including Lights of Tuscany, which allow for custom lamping and finishes. I helped Lee procure both new and vintage furnishings to complement her existing pieces, and together we selected the handmade wool rugs from Old World Rugs in downtown SLO. >>

Lee’s legacy as a professional ballet dancer and instructor with the Civic Ballet of SLO weaves throughout the home’s narrative, including framed photographs from years of performing, a Fiestaware flamenco dancer cookie jar, dancethemed coffee table books, and a Dia De Los Muertos style dancer she got on her last trip to Mexico. Two of her favorite pieces are the ceramic chickens, which sit perched amidst the action on the kitchen island.

Lee’s mother was born on Catalina Island, and sentimental pieces of Catalina Pottery are displayed throughout the home. She also has an impressive collection of ceramic pitchers, and for the first time, she’s able to display them together. She told me that this is one of her favorite things about her home, everything finally has its own space.

Leaving that light-filled box and the nature that embraces it, I understand exactly what Lee means—everything finally has its own home, including her. The house is more than just a collection of carefully chosen tiles and sentimental pieces; it’s a manifestation of the life she’s built and the memories she’s carried within her finally taking root. The home and property feel enchanted with her energy in that way. Now and for years to come, she gets to share it with her family, including her three-year-old grandson, two daughters, and the friends who have become family over her decades of living on the Central Coast. SLO LIFE

AVERAGE PRICE PER SQUARE FOOT

$542 UP FROM $516 LAST YEAR

ACTIVE LISTINGS

1,443 DOWN FROM 1,455 LAST YEAR

AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET

forty

nine UP FROM 39 LAST YEAR

MEDIAN SELLING PRICE

PROPERTIES SOLD

325 UP FROM 315 LAST YEAR

MEDIAN % OF ASKING PRICE

96.9% DOWN FROM 98% LAST YEAR

$840,000 UP FROM $769,000 LAST YEAR

Closing Cost Credit when you finance your home loan with Donna Lewis $2,500

• Closing cost credit: $2,500*

• A fast and seamless Digital Mortgage experience

• Access to a team of dedicated loan experts

• Low, low rates

As an employee of the City of San Luis Obispo, County of San Luis Obispo or Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Rate is dedicated to offering you competitive rates, top-notch customer service and exclusive perks. For more information visit rate.com/slocityemployees, rate.com/slocountyemployees rate.com/calpolyslo, rate.com/cuestacollege

Lewis

Lending C 805.235.0463

• Boasts a 97% customer satisfaction rating**

• Wide selection of loan options

• Pre-approval in minutes

teamslo@rate.com 1065 Higuera St., Suite 100, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

laguna lake

REAL ESTATE BY THE NUMBERS

tank farm

country club

BEN LERNER

BY THE NUMBERS

2024 $1,194,879 $807,048 $2,180,000 $1,025,042 $1,557,634 $937,000 $829,273 $901,250 $1,038,193 $1,037,347 $532,250 $1,823,125 $732,171 $994,000 $1,048,777 $1,153,333 $1,209,747 $708,250 $1,052,454 $990,633 2025 $1,441,500 $886,738 $1,388,264 $1,259,059 $1,815,714 $802,500 $869,241 $1,101,765 $1,006,553 $1,018,027 $602,500 $1,585,623 $770,527 $907,250 $869,722 $761,667 $1,469,690 $777,500 $1,503,000 $1,091,886 AVERAGE SELLING PRICE

The Power of Drum Circles

BY PADEN HUGHES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETE BILTOFT

In a world that often feels fragmented, the simple act of coming together to create music can have a profound impact on our collective well-being. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it’s easy to forget that we are all part of one global family, connected by a shared human experience. One powerful way to reconnect with this sense of unity is through drum circles— an age-old practice that has been bringing people together for centuries.

Recently, my children and I had the opportunity to participate in a drum circle facilitated by Dee DiGioia, founder of Mindful Kindful YOUniversity. As beginners, we were uncertain of what to expect. As a mother of two young children under the age of eight, I worried the experience might not hold their attention. I also feared we would stand out negatively, unable to keep up or create meaningful rhythms. However, DiGioia’s warm and inclusive approach made us feel empowered from the very start. We quickly found our rhythm, creating beautiful music together with a community of strangers who soon felt like friends.

DiGioia is a seasoned sound-healing practitioner and drum circle facilitator. She has been guiding people of all ages through transformative drumming experiences. Rooted in her belief that drumming fosters connections with both others and ourselves, DiGioia explains, “Drumming is a powerful tool to promote relaxation, release stress, and foster community. In a drum circle, everyone’s contribution is valuable, regardless of experience level. It’s about creating harmony together.”

DiGioia’s approach to wellness through drumming focuses on our shared humanity and the importance of genuinely connecting with those around us. As she puts it, “In a drum circle, we are reminded that we are not alone. We are one family, one rhythm, and our individual beat contributes to a greater whole.”

Drumming has long been used as a means of building unity and fostering cooperation. For centuries, indigenous cultures worldwide have turned to drum circles to celebrate significant events, deepen spiritual practices, and unite communities. The rhythm of the drum serves as a universal language, transcending barriers and aligning people from diverse backgrounds.

But DiGioia’s drum circles are about more than just making music; they are about healing, community, and celebrating diversity. Whether she’s hosting a family event, a corporate team-building workshop, or a private gathering, DiGioia ensures that each circle is a welcoming space where participants can explore their creativity, connect with others, and become part of something larger than themselves.

For those eager to learn more, Mindful Kindful YOUniversity offers a variety of drumming experiences. From private drum circle events to group sessions for teams and families, DiGioia’s offerings provide spaces for people to come together and experience the profound benefits of rhythmic connection.

In a world where technology often isolates us, it is essential to find ways to reconnect. Drum circles, led by facilitators like DiGioia, create invaluable opportunities to celebrate our shared humanity, heal, and form lasting bonds. DiGioia’s work is a testament to the transformative power of music, and her approach to wellness reminds us of the importance of being in harmony—not only with ourselves but also with the people around us. SLO LIFE

To learn more check

Dee DiGioia

BY JASON KNOX

Inadvertent Shift

BY TILLY WRIGHT

Full of excitement, I drove to Art Central Art Supply & Gallery in San Luis Obispo on a gray Saturday morning to participate in an art class. Eager to channel my restless hands into something creative and colorful, I arrived at the workshop titled “Illustrating with Watercolor Markers & Ink Pens” with Jason Knox. While dozens of supplies were spread across tables— each offering a range of watercolor markers and ink pens in a multitude of shades—I entered the room without a clear vision of what to create. Still, the prospect of creating something freely was enough to spark my interest.

This was a considerable contrast to my usual weekdays. A typical busy morning finds me packing lunches, getting ready, and dropping the kids off at school. Then, almost immediately, work begins, and I’m glued to my MacBook—a connection I don’t mind. My laptop often becomes my primary tool for personal projects and passion pursuits, extending my attachment to it beyond work hours. For a better life balance, I decided to explore something outside the routine— something to challenge my thinking—hence my decision to attend this art workshop.

Like Kung Fu Panda, attentively absorbing the wisdom of Master Oogway, I tried to listen conscientiously to my instructor, Jason Knox, a local artist and author of “Taria Book One: A Love Story.” Having created art since childhood, Knox’s expertise was evident as he led us through the next two hours of artistic exploration. The workshop, open to “all ages,” felt like the perfect fit for me, especially because it had been a while since I last had an art lesson. It was more relaxed than the adult-focused options available, which suited me just fine.

Among the seven participants, two were children—their presence added a lively energy to the room, and next time, I plan to convince my elementary-aged kids to join me. However, this solo experience gave me the right balance of freedom and focus, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the creative process.

Knox encouraged us to use the beach shells, rocks, and other seaside treasures laid out on the table as inspiration for our artwork. He suggested we arrange these natural materials into a shape, which would serve as the starting point for our creations. This simple guideline gave me the crucial inspiration I needed. I chose three small shells and three larger rocks, arranging them to resemble a bird’s face, with a pronounced beak. Following Jason’s instructions, I traced the shape with a gray pencil, though as I worked, I noticed the shapes were more asymmetrical than I had hoped. Still, I continued, trusting the process.

Next, Jason introduced us to pointillism, an art technique that uses precise dots made with colored ink pens. I began applying this method inside the traced shape, starting with a pink ink

BY JASON KNOX

pen. Then, spontaneously, I swapped to different colors, gradually blending them with a water pen—another technique I learned during the workshop. As I blended the colors, I realized my artwork was evolving into something unexpected. What had started as a bird’s face was now beginning to resemble a heart.

In the midst of the world’s usual rush, I felt the universe subtly nudging me to slow down. The meticulous nature of dotting and blending forced me to focus and take my time, a pause I clearly needed. The experience was cathartic. But as the image began to shift, I grew perplexed by what was unfolding. At that moment, I decided to purposefully use a red watercolor pen to fill in the final sections. Though unplanned, the resulting piece looked unmistakably like a human heart.

Time flew by during the workshop, and I had hoped to complete my art project before the two-hour session ended. Fortunately, Jason hosts this same affordable workshop every month at Art Central. The workshop is limited to twelve participants, and all supplies are included. In addition to being an excellent local source for art supplies, Art Central fosters a vibrant community of learning through ongoing classes and workshops, catering to both children and adults.

When the workshop ended, I stepped out into the cool air, greeted by an instant chill. A few yards down the street, I found my car covered in water drops from a light rain I had missed while absorbed in the project. Noticing the patterns of the droplets, I couldn’t help but think of how I might draw shapes like these. The language of art still flowed through me. For a moment, as my car warmed up, time seemed to slow. I placed my artwork on the empty passenger seat, appreciating that my heart was filled with contentment.

Art Central offers hosts classes, workshops, and events at 1329 Monterey Street in San Luis Obispo. Check out their website artcentralslo.com to learn more.

SLO LIFE

Grounds for Joy

Tiny

Café brews a blend of coffee, community, and conscious creation

BY JAIME LEWIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIAH VANDENBERG

Anyone who’s sipped a thoughtfully-made drink from pop-up coffee shop Tiny Café will be unsurprised to learn that owners Colin Brown and Emily Quady arrived prepared for our interview. When I offer to buy them coffee at a brick-and-mortar cafe in downtown SLO for our chat, Brown produces his own earthenware mug. And at the end, when I ask if there is anything else for me to know about the business, they consult a notebook containing thoughts about Tiny Café’s mission and purpose. From across the table, I spy one long word scribbled across the top of the page and ask what it means.

Brown looked to Quady to say it out loud.

“ Gesamtkunstwerk ,” she says, her German heritage obvious in how softly the word rolls off her tongue. “It means a total art piece. That’s our goal all the time—to create the whole experience.”

In many ways, this says everything about the couple that brings Tiny Café to locations across the county each week (most notably weekend mornings in the parking lot of Lincoln Market & Deli in SLO). More than baristas, they’re providers of an experience that transcends the ordinary coffee stop. From the bespoke roasting of their beans to the fresh-cut flowers adorning the table they set up outside their van, every gesture hints at fundamental values.

>>

Emily Quady and Colin Brown

Quady, who grew up between California and Germany, brings European café sensibilities to their operation. “I always enjoyed the little cafes in Germany,” she says, “people sitting outside, kind of like back here, but out on the streets.” This cross-cultural appreciation shapes Tiny Café’s aesthetic and community-centered approach.

Their journey began a couple years ago with a pop-up at a SLO Beaver Brigade event in Mission Plaza. “We were busy all day,” Quady recalls, a modest assessment of what would become a devoted following.

The couple’s commitment to quality coffee started with beans from a wine-industry friend selling under Barometer Coffee. When he relocated to Seattle (ironically, Brown’s hometown before SLO’s sunshine and surf opportunities lured him south), they faced a choice. Rather than compromise, they invested in their own small-batch roaster.

“It takes around four hours of roasting these small batches,” Quady explains. They travel to Alameda to source green coffee directly, driving 70-kilo bags down the coast themselves. “We aim with our espresso to hit notes that are familiar for people,” Brown adds. “So all ages can identify it as coffee if they were blindfolded.”

The Tiny Café menu showcases both tradition and innovation, including their most popular offering, a house-made vanilla cardamom syrup created with freshly ground cardamom pods. They’ve also incorporated Lion’s Mane mushroom in their Iced Lion’s Mane Americano, and whisk first-harvest matcha from the Uji region in Kyoto for drinks like their iced organic strawberry matcha, rather than use a prepared mix.

“Colin is half Japanese,” Quady notes. “His mom has given us connections to the traditional tea house setup.”

Prepping their mobile operation means sourcing ingredients and making syrups throughout the week, lugging out their radically-heavy table and pre-heating the professional-grade Slayer espresso machine before service.

“When we first started, we were wondering why isn’t anyone doing this,” Brown says with a smile. “Then we realized why: Because it’s so hard.”

Quady and Brown’s commitment to the model has built a loyal following both for pop-ups and catering services for corporate events and weddings. Their success mirrors a pattern in SLO’s culinary scene, where beloved local establishments often begin modestly and grow organically—a sustainable approach that aligns with Tiny Café’s values.

Looking ahead, they dream of opening a brick-andmortar location, and Quady hopes to incorporate traditional baked goods like Streusel Kuchen alongside their coffee offerings on a regular basis.

“The community that we’ve felt and the support that we’ve had is like no other,” Quady says. “People are waiting for us, they want their coffee, and we’re always looking forward to it.”

In a world increasingly dominated by corporate sameness, Tiny Café offers something precious—a reminder that something as simple as coffee can become art when approached with intention, care, and love. One cup, one customer, one pop-up at a time, Brown and Quady are crafting their gesamtkunstwerk , inviting us all to slow down and savor the experience.

Nano Brew

BY BRANT MYERS

PHOTOGRAPY BY PETE BILTOFT

This isn’t my first time at Three Stacks and a Rock Brewing Company in Morro Bay, but it is only my second. Like most people strolling the Embarcadero, I enjoy popping into a few shops, dodging groups of tourists meandering the boardwalk as they stop to photograph a sunbathing otter, and perhaps grabbing fish ‘n’ chips—because, after all, vacationing in our own neck of the woods is one of the reasons we live on the Central Coast. I’ve already accumulated a collection of seashells, and let’s face it, you can only eat so much saltwater taffy. So when something as new and exciting as a brewery comes along, it’s sure to grab my attention. To be fair, I’d probably stop at a brewery on the way to a labor and delivery ward, but that’s beside the point.

Instead of a casual pint on a summer day, this time I walked in on a warm winter afternoon, approaching with the eye of a journalist—which feels odd to say, given that there’s the eye of a shark inside. More on that later. As comfortable in a brewery as I am in my own living room, I sauntered up to the bar and asked for the head brewer and owner. Like a magician, I turned around, and there he was. Chuck Nettnin greeted me with a firm handshake, and before we even let go, I also met his wife and co-owner, Ananda Nettnin. Chuck was warm and smiling, dressed like a brewer straight out of central casting:

construction-grade pants, a slightly faded brewery T-shirt, and work boots sturdy enough to drop a keg on and still hose off spent grain at the end of a brew day. Ananda, on the other hand, was dressed smartly, radiating managerial and frontof-house vibes that spoke to her extensive experience in the hospitality industry. Together, they embody the entirety of the business—Chuck handling behind-the-scenes operations and Ananda taking charge of customer-facing responsibilities— both warm, proud, and excited to share their passion.

They wasted no time in showing me around, pointing out the features of their extensively renovated building and eagerly sharing the subtle personal touches hidden throughout the property. This Embarcadero location wasn’t their first; their original brewery was in north Morro Bay, on the inland side of Highway 1. I was familiar with the spot, having passed it many times while heading up the coast. I’d often glanced quickly at it as I drove by, but something about that location never quite meshed with the coastal vibes outside my window. That’s just me, though. Plenty of locals and tourists frequented their brewery before the move to a more coastal location. This newer spot, with its oceanfront patio and abundant sunshine, beckoned me far more strongly. Plus, it has a fascinating history. The building once housed the Morro Bay Aquarium, and remnants of the past are scattered all around. >>

Chuck Nettnin

Chuck and Ananda led me outside to the patio, where they pointed out a section of the fence with stainless steel rings. This was once the path the seals would use to leap from tank to tank. They also showed me a small glass sliding window in the wall where visitors could feed the seals from a paper bag of fish for just two bits. But perhaps most impressive was the large deck built over the former water tanks. Now elevated for a spectacular view of the bay and closer to the warming sun, it’s the perfect spot to relax with a pint.

Inside, I was struck by the little nods to the sea. The reclaimed wood ceiling resembled the broadside of a ship, and the swirls of the epoxied concrete floors mirrored the ocean’s movement. The blue ambient lighting tied the room together beautifully. The walls were tastefully adorned with original signage from the aquarium’s fifty years of operation, and the inset shelves displayed curios on loan from the Harbor Commission, including the eye of a bull shark—the largest ever found off the Pacific Coast. Even the wood ceiling had Easter eggs of its own, but of a different variety. As I took in the coastal vibes, I began to notice subtle canine tributes, my favorite being small photos hidden in the knotholes of the lumber. Dogs are clearly part of the scene here. I watched as happy humans led their dogs out to the patio, and I noticed paw prints drawn on the beer list chalkboard, as well as the face of their beloved Red Boston Terrier on the logo of their pint glasses. There’s even a plaque on the wall showcasing the Nettnins’ dedication to the UC Davis Companion Animal Memorial Fund, a cause they support by donating a dollar for every pint of their American Strong Ale, “A Beer Named Floyd.”

After soaking in the ambiance, I eagerly accepted their offer to sample what all the customers come for. With a brewery of this size (seven barrels), each visit can feel like the first. As is my tradition, I asked for their flagship beers—the ones that, if ever removed from the board, would cause riots in the streets. Thankfully, Chuck and Ananda’s loyal regulars ensure a steady rotation, and I was treated to a lineup of five brews, ranging from pale and light to dark and strong. Earlier in our meeting, Ananda had mentioned that they also operate as a “hotdoggery,” and that word alone had me excited. She ordered me a Chicago dog, along with a platter of hatch chili queso dip and chips. Setting them apart from the typical seaside fare of clam chowder and deep-fried cod, I devoured the delicious “street snacks” as Chuck walked me through each beer. I want to talk about the beer, but I must first say that I haven’t had a Chicago dog this good since my last trip to Chicago. Stuffed before even arriving, I still managed to finish it, along with the perfectly spiced queso dip, in between sips of beer.

As I worked my way through the beers, I felt like I was experiencing a typical weather system in Morro Bay—apt, since many of the brew names are inspired by seaside conditions: Marine Layer, Coastal Eddy, and even a seasonal Oyster Stout. I particularly enjoyed Marine Layer, a hazy IPA with the same foggy appearance I remember from a recent kayak outing on the bay. The Norm Lager was a wonderful first beer of the day—clean, refreshing, with just the right hit of biscuit to remind you that you’re drinking the finest liquid bread man has ever made. Honestly, I enjoyed every beer poured. Chuck is clearly a talented homebrewer who made the successful leap from sharing homemade garage beers with neighbors to serving a wider crowd of locals and tourists alike. It’s easy to fall into the habit of frequenting the same watering holes, speeding past new areas on the way to old spots, or just staying close to home. But I encourage you to play tourist in your own backyard and visit this gem of a nanobrewery on the Embarcadero. Pop your head in, ask the bartender what’s good, or, if you’re like me, match the beer to the weather. You might even turn around and find yourself face-to-face with the brewer. So, raise a pint to the sun and toast Chuck and Ananda Nettnin at Three Stacks and a Rock! SLO LIFE

!on tap

Darby Red Ale

5.5% ABV | $8/pint

An underrated style that’s increasingly more difficult to find, American Amber, or Red Ale, is the Swiss Army knife of beers—hoppy, malty, light, yet satisfying. Try Darby Red Ale if you want all four seasons in one glass.

threestacksandarockbrewing.com/

Unique Vision

BY DAN FREDMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY DESJARDINS

Mike Callahan of Maidenstoen Wine embodies the spirit of a wine iconoclast—though a benevolent one. Much like Kermit Lynch, Terry Thiese, and Randall Grahm, Callahan takes a refreshing, slightly unconventional approach to both wine and the wine business. These visionaries see things differently, not by tearing down traditions but by guiding their followers toward new insights. Their wines, selected for their uniqueness, ask us to trust our palates and form our own opinions. Callahan certainly has.

How does Callahan fit into this Mt. Rushmore-worthy lineup? Wineries in the SLO Coast AVA are known for their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. But Callahan stands out with his focus on less common, site-specific varieties like Riesling (and, have I mentioned Grüner Veltliner?). His wines—brilliant and affordable at about $25 a bottle—are a rare find in a market dominated by more mainstream offerings.

Callahan’s journey into wine was serendipitous. While studying film at the University of Colorado, Boulder, he worked at a local liquor store across from his favorite skate park. The store, next to a Whole Foods, served a clientele that sought wine, despite the state’s liquor laws prohibiting its sale at the market. Surrounded by a vast selection of global wines, Callahan immersed himself in learning everything he could about them. He became a local expert by connecting the dots between geography, geology, and wine.

“We worked with small distributors and importers,” he recalls. “I learned early on about the importance of relationships with clients and the art of hand-selling. I found it empowering to talk about wines like Barolo, Burgundy, and Bordeaux as a twenty-year-old, debating old-world versus new-world styles. Then I’d cross the street and hit the skate park.”

After graduation, Callahan moved to California, not to pursue a film career, but to dive deeper into wine. “I didn’t study winemaking, but I channeled the same passion and determination I’d developed in the wine shop into the wine industry,” he says. “You work harder, read more, and network relentlessly. It felt like being an underdog, but I wanted to be in the arena with the big dogs.” During the early 2000s, just before Sideways hit theaters, Callahan worked with notable producers in the Santa Ynez Valley—a special time in an exciting region.

He went on to work with well-known names like Curtis, Firestone, Margerum, Baileyana, and Ken Volk at the Byron property. In Los Gatos, he joined Testarossa, where he spent eight years diving deep into the world of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, particularly studying clonal selections—how specific clones can shape a wine’s character. “I realized that the best Burgundy vineyards used Massale selections—vines of different Pinot clones interplanted in one vineyard. When you focus on a single clone, you lose the magic that evolves in a vineyard over time,” Callahan explains. “Massale selections are like California field blends. They speak more about the land than about individual traits of the clones.”

After his time at Testarossa, Callahan worked with winemaker Hannes Storm in South Africa, eventually returning to the Central Coast for the 2018 harvest. There, he met Tom Greenough of Saucelito Canyon Vineyard, who introduced him to the local Hash Harriers running club—“a drinking club with a running problem.” It was through this connection that Callahan met Tom’s sister, Margaret. They married a couple of years later.

“I had this sense of ‘I’m done spinning my wheels,’” says Callahan. “I’d also made my first commercial vintage that year. Ironically, given my love for Pinot Noir, my debut wine was a Riesling.”

At Maidenstoen, Callahan seeks balance. His inspirations come from great German and Austrian wines, particularly those from Prager and Bründlmayer. “Riesling has incredible dynamism, and Grüner is versatile and thrives in the Central Coast climate,” he says. “The wines I make are influenced by a European style, but they maintain their unique California energy.”

Callahan sources his grapes from select, trusted growers and believes in subtlety in his wines. “I have great respect for the farmers I work with. They understand their vineyard conditions, and I trust them to give me the best fruit,” he shares.

Though Riesling may not dominate California’s wine scene, Callahan relishes the challenge. “Wine culture should have ties to where it comes from, no matter the price point. I prefer making small quantities of wines with provenance over massmarket, commodified products. It’s not easy, especially when Cabernet, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir rule the market. But that’s changing, and I’m proud to help put Riesling and Grüner front and center.” >>

Mike Callahan

Tasting at Maidenstoen

The tasting experience at Maidenstoen is more personal than most California wineries. Instead of a formal tasting room or mandatory tours, you simply email Mike to arrange a visit to his home just south of San Luis Obispo in Squire Canyon. The laid-back atmosphere may include kids running around—he and his wife Margaret have five. It’s a chance to chat with an intriguing winemaker about wine, politics, economics, or even the quirks of Pinot Noir clones. A glass of Riesling is a great conversation starter.

The Maidenstoen Wine Club

Callahan’s wine club delivers six bottles twice a year, with each shipment averaging $150.

Shopping

You can find Maidenstoen wines directly from Callahan at the winery or at DePalo & Sons and California Fresh in Pismo and SLO as well as local restaurants and wine shops.

About the Maidenstoen Name

Callahan admits that when choosing a name for his winery, he wasn’t thinking of branding. “Everyone in the cellar dreams of making wine they’re passionate about but doesn’t think about marketing ramifications,” he says. “I wanted a name that captured the beauty and ageability of Riesling. I combined ‘maiden’ and ‘stone,’ and Maidenstoen was born.”

*2021 Maidenstoen Edna Valley Grüner Veltliner

$25

Wine writers are limited because we’re forced to use words to communicate sensory information. I was on a tour of Austria a couple of years ago when an Aussie journalist used the word “sapidity” to describe a classic Grüner Veltliner. Sapidity is a pretty perfect descriptor for this wine. Grown in a hillside vineyard off Highway 227 just past the San Luis Country Club, this wine is fresh-tasting with the sort of acidity that makes you want to take another sip to confirm that your first sip really was as good as you think it was. Pretty soon the bottle is gone and you wish you’d bought a magnum. Tangerines and wet stones, with some lime pith, citrus, and herbaceous/green pepper notes, as well. It’s light on its feet, and although it might be better in a couple of years, it’s thrilling and fulfilling right now.

2021 Maidenstoen Cienega Valley Riesling

$25

From grapes grown in the Wirz Vineyard, the second-oldest Riesling vineyard in California (the oldest is Stony Hill in Napa Valley). The site is in the Gabilan Mountains, above Soledad and these gnarly head-pruned vines have been dry farmed almost since they went into the ground in the 1960s. Free your mind of any preconceived notions that white wines in tall Germanic bottles are sweet. This is a great example of dry Riesling—no perceptible residual sugar, lots of Meyer lemon, pear, and maybe a little tarragon lurking in the back. Long finish, clean and crisp enough for a hot summer day but with enough baby fat to work with all but the richest seafood dishes.

2021 Maidenstoen La Estancia Vineyard Riesling $24

Like the Wirz Vineyard, this is in the Gabilan Mountains, east of the Pinnacles National Monument. The cool winds blowing in from Monterey Bay affect this wine more than they do at Wirz, leaving it tighter and a little more serene. The acid structure is up front right now, but with a couple of years in the cellar the wine will likely mellow out and the white peach and nectarine components will become more prominent than the citrus currently defining the wine.

Maidenstoen Wine maidenstoenwine.com mike@maidenstoenwine.com

May

Financial shifts invite necessary change, trust your instincts about which habits to release. Fresh ideas arrive with transformation. You know what to do.

april

Old hurts come up for good reason. Put that extra energy into moving your body—it knows what you need right now. Sign up for that kickboxing class or call up Paragon Jiu Jitsu.

May

April

Fighting change only makes things harder, especially when it is inevitable. What is it like to embrace change, but take it slow and steady?

Relationships can bring unexpected change. Release what holds you back. Money matters may intensify, but your good senses and intuition will guide you.

April

Your mind is expanding and beliefs shifting.When your beliefs change, your communities tend to change, too. Consider the difference between discourse and debate.

May

Work priorities need restructuring. Meditation reveals what you’ve been missing. Your season begins with perfect clarity—turn those business ideas into tangible plans.

APril

Things are tender on the home front. Carving out space for quiet moments is a form of self-care. The peace and silence will provide the answers you need.

april

MaY

Tapping into a creative flow state is easier this month, while stale memories of the past begin to fade. Reading old journal entries could reveal some necessary truths.

Money talks get real while friend dynamics add another layer of complexity. Who has time for petty drama? Not you. Small shifts can create big waves.

MaY

Study or travel for some fresh perspectives. Old habits dissolve naturally. Exciting conversations at work can open doors—that workshop idea you’ve been considering? Share it.

april

April

Sit with the deep thoughts for now, this season is temporary. Your joie de vivre will take center stage again soon, like the warmth returning in the spring.

May

Surprises at work have an impact on your home life. Abundance is a state of mind and your energy is a currency. Choose wisely what you want to invest in.

Life’s leveling up your boundary game through work and relationships. When creativity sparks something deep, listen up. Your gut knows what’s next.

March

Joint accounts and shared resources need attention. Release inherited money fears. Invest in continuing your education, that online course keeps showing up for good reason.

april

Sometimes taking a step back and seeing the big picture is exactly what you need to move forward. Find a balance between home and work, and yourself and others.

MaY

You’re known for magnetism. Your presence is known, just as much as your absence is known. Say no to social obligations that weigh you down. You hold the power.

April

Is there such a thing as too much freedom? You might argue, no. But sometimes structure offers freedom. New routines can feel strange, but just what you need.

March

april

Challenging times calls for creative solutions. Sure, you’re good at getting things done, but what if it could be done even better?

MaY

That morning routine you’ve been considering? Creating new habits can bring unexpected benefits in other areas of life, like friendships and relationships.

April

Letting go of what doesn’t align creates room for what does. A business opportunity arrives later this month that resonates differently than other offers.

May

april

Lean into the process. Not everyone will understand the rapid transformation you’re going through, and that’s okay. Keep your head held high and your boundaries strong.

Creative projects gain momentum—that side business idea deserves your full expression now. Getting you that much closer to self-autonomy.

Your gut feelings are dropping major truth bombs. It’s not enough to journal or dream about it, remember to turn those insights into aligned action.

May

Overdue discussions at home are finally happening, prompting a change in your perspective. You have permission to walk away from draining social obligations.

PAULINA

Written in the stars BY

Culture Events &

FIRE IN THE CANYON

Author Daniel Gumbiner shares his story in a lecture and book signing during an evening sponsored by Cuesta College Friends of the Library and County of San Luis Obispo Public Libraries. Fire in the Canyon, Cuesta College’s sixteenth annual Book of the Year selection and a New Yorker Best Book of the Year, is a story about grape growing and wine, financial and familial struggles, and the peculiar characters and unlikely heroes one will always find in small-town California.

April 17 / slolibrary.org

FROM SURVIVAL TO STRENGTH

Peace activist, octogenarian, and biker Manny Lindenbaum, recounts a Holocaust survivor’s legacy of resilience and unity. In 2014 he completed a twentyeight-day odyssey returning to his Polish hometown to retrace his family’s steps during the Holocaust, riding a bicycle the last 220 miles.

April 6 / pacslo.org

VERDI’S REQUIEM

SLO EARTHFEST

SLO FILM FEST

Showcasing independent cinema and promoting diversity, understanding, education, and inclusion through engaging storytelling, the 2025 version (celebrating thirty-one years) of the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival continues the world-class six-day event’s most popular traditions, including Surf Nite, the King Vidor Tribute, and Skate Night, while promising the best in feature and short films from all over the world.

April 24-29 / slofilmfest.org

Join the SLO Climate Coalition at El Chorro Regional Park. Celebrating the collective power of the community to build a sustainable future, it’s a full day of inspiration, education, and community connection. Bring the whole family to enjoy live music, a makers market, a beer garden, wellness and kids zones, community art, habitat restoration projects, exhibitors, and inspiring speakers. Tickets are free but pre-registration is required. April 26 / sloclimatecoalition.org

The San Luis Obispo Master Chorale performs of one of the most famous and beloved masterworks of all-time: Giuseppe Verdi’s powerful Messa da Requiem. Its robust rhythms, majestic melodies, and striking contrasts are brought to life by dynamic conductor Thomas Davies with a full orchestra, four exceptional soloists, and scores of singers. April 27 / slomasterchorale.org

WINE4PAWS

Helping homeless pets—one glass at a time. More than eighty wineries, restaurants, and cider and olive oil producers join forces during this annual event to raise money for Woods Humane Society. Download a free map of participating businesses and spend a weekend visiting beautiful venues who are donating ten percent of their sales to help deserving animals find their forever homes. No tickets or pre-registration required.

April 26-27 / wine4paws.com

•

•

•

•

HANDS ACROSS THE SEA

A symphonic journey celebrating the intertwined musical legacies of Britain and America is presented at the Harold J. Miossi Cultural and Performing Arts Center at Cuesta College and features captivating performances by soloists Kelly Leu, oboe, and Chris Woodruff, trumpet. Honoring the rich heritage of both nations through the universal language of music, the diverse repertoire soars from Copland’s Quiet City to Bernstein’s Overture to Candide to Sousa’s timeless classic Hands Across the Sea.

May 4 / slowinds.org You Are Enough

TINA

An uplifting comeback story, The Tina Turner Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll. Her live shows were seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall and presented by Cal Poly Arts, the evening is set to the pulsepounding soundtrack of Tina’s most beloved hits.

May 7-8 / calpolyarts.org

THE WIZARD OF OZ

The SLO Performing Arts Center is transformed into the Emerald City when Opera San Luis Obispo presents the region’s first grand production of the L. Frank Baum classic, mirroring the famous 1939 MGM musical film with familiar characters and songs that everyone loves. This version, directed by Justine Prado, promises expansive two-story sets, vivid costumes, a large chorus, choreography by Drew Silvaggio, a full orchestra conducted by Brian Asher Alhadeff, and a nationallyacclaimed leading cast. May 17-18 / operaslo.org

COPPÉLIA

SLO Movement Arts Collective presents Ryan Lawrence’s nostalgic ballet about finding truth while surviving high school. Premiered in 2022, this new version of the classic ballet is set in an all-girls school. Using the classical score by Delibes, the plot—centered around creating the “perfect girl”—is updated to reflect a world where friendship trumps rivalry, differences are celebrated not scorned, and the path to become alive lies in being one’s truest self. May 24 / movementartscollective.org