Two hospitals, along with 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.
ere’s something about doing something for the rst time that sticks with you. Not because the moment was glamorous—usually quite the opposite—but because it marked some kind of shift. Something began, and suddenly, whether you were ready or not, it was yours to gure out.
We always make a big deal out of the “big” rsts: your rst job (underpaid), your rst home (tiny), your rst real creative risk (emotionally risky). But honestly, I’ve come to appreciate the quieter, rsts just as much.
Writing this is a rst for me. A big one. I stared at the blank page longer than I’d like to admit, wondering what I was supposed to say, how “o cial” it should sound, and if there’s some unspoken rule about how these kinds of things are supposed to go. I didn’t have a plan—I just started writing so here we are.
But this “big” rst didn’t show up on its own. It was built on a hundred small ones that no one saw. e rst time I said yes to something I didn’t feel ready for. e rst meeting I walked into feeling completely underquali ed—but I did it anyway. e rst time I told my husband Aaron this is what I wanted to do and he said “Okay. Do it!” (with way more trust in me than I had in myself at the time).
None of those felt particularly special at the time. ey were messy, awkward, and sometimes deeply uncomfortable. But together, they slowly started forming the foundation for something I could actually stand on, and most importantly, be genuinely excited about.
And now here I am, writing this message. Still a little unsure. Still wondering if I’m doing it “right.” But also, really proud. Because sometimes just showing up is the rst step toward something better than you imagined.
Like the rst time you spoke up in a meeting and shocked yourself with how con dent you sounded. Or the rst time you got to your destination without using Google Maps and felt like you deserved a round of applause. Or that moment when something familiar suddenly looks brand new— not because it changed, but because you did.
Lately, I’ve been noticing those kinds of rsts more. ey don’t announce themselves. ere’s no music swelling in the background. ey just kind of... happen. You say yes to something you’d normally avoid. You start a new habit that quietly reshapes your day, like making the subtle shift from hot co ee to iced co ee, which is where I’m at right now… You decide to care less about what people think (a true superpower).
And if you’re not paying attention, they can pass you by without acknowledgement—which would be a shame, because those small rsts often turn out to be the most meaningful. Whether you were seeking them or not. Firsts are rarely easy. ey’re usually a mix of anxiety, excitement, and Googling “how to….” But that is where the good stu starts. And along the way, if you’re lucky, you meet people who are stumbling through their own rsts, too.
So if you’re in the thick of one of those weird, wonderful rsts right now—starting something new, picking something back up, or just thinking about a di erent path—I hope you stick with it. Or at least give it a real shot. And if you’re feeling stuck, maybe something in this magazine helps you shift even just a little bit. at still counts. A lot, actually.
We don’t need every beginning to be epic. Sometimes it’s just about starting something. Or showing up for the thing—awkwardly, imperfectly, but with intention.
is was an exciting and terrifying rst for me. Here’s to those kinds of rsts.
Live the SLO Life!
Meghan Burkhardt meghan@slolifemagazine.com
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PUBLISHER
Meghan Burkhardt
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Aaron Burkhardt
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dan Fredman
Chuck Graham
Paden Hughes
Jaime Lewis
Dana Lossing
Brant Myers
Brian Schwartz
Tim Townley
Tilly Wright
Cindy Kendrix
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Pete Biltoft
Rosa Clark
Emily DesJardins
Peter Heirendt
David Lalush
Mark Nakamura
Jessika Benham
Liz Kay
CONTRIBUTIONS
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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SLO LIFE TRAVELS
ERIC HOLMAN and SARAH SNIDERMAN
LESLIE WEAVER and BARRY LEWIS (Juneau, Alaska)
BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA
PERHENTIAN ISLANDS, MALAYSIA
SIPAN ISLAND, CROATIA
NAEROYFJORD, NORWAY
JIM and SALLY BROOKS-SCHULKE
DUKE and ELLEN WILLIAMS
TURTLE BAY DIVE STAFF
NISSWA, MN
OLIVER and RANDY
AVIGNON, FRANCE
KATIE and GARY PETERS
CHRIS
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. EMILY DESJARDINS is an editorial photographer based out of her home town in San Luis Obispo County. Follow her on Instagram @emanatemoments.
4. CINDY KENDRIX is freelance copywriter in the food and beverage industry. Writing about people and their stories of perseverance truly feeds her soul. You can find her snacking on Instagram @cici_writes.
5. 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.
6. CHUCK GRAHAM is a photographer and the author of “Carrizo Plain” and “Paddling into a Natural Balance.” You can find him on Instagram @chuckgrahamphoto.
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. 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
BY CINDY KENDRIX
may 30
Tails are wagging as Laguna Lake Dog Park—the only dog park in SLO— reopens after major $1.3M renovations, including three-acre perimeter fencing and environmental clean-up. After 25 years, the park now features upgraded turf, ADA-compliant pathways, and separate areas for small (<25 lbs) and large (>25 lbs) dogs. SLO Parks & Recreation Director Greg Avakian highlights the park’s role in fostering socialization for both dogs and their owners, making it a joyful community space.
june 3
After debuting SLO County’s rst battery plant this April, project developer Alpha Omega Power hosted an open forum at Nipomo Library addressing concerns locals may have regarding the safety of the plant. e Caballero Energy Storage project has been rated and tested with strict spacing requirements, an emergency response plan, and is equipped with an automatic shutdown system for spark and re prevention. e plant makes up 33 containers over six acres on a 20-acre plot and provides 100 megawatts of electricity–enough energy to power 100,000 homes for up to four hours daily.
june 12
After a 12–year hunt for a place to call home, SLO Classical Academy (SLOCA) is thrilled to announce that plans consolidating their three current locations into one permanent location are o cially greenlit. Currently the Acacia Creek Business Park, the 52,000 square-foot property located at 3450 Broad Street, is being designed by Studio Design Group Architects. e new SLOCA venue for students from preschool through high school, also includes infant and toddler care, and is expected to be ready for move-in Fall 2026.
june 14
Green and gold lled SLO as 6,821 Cal Poly students celebrated the 2025 commencement. e College of Engineering led with 1,585 undergraduates and 371 graduate degrees awarded. Graduates decorated caps with bright messages, helped families and some walked the stage holding their children, capturing proud, unforgettable moments. ousands beamed with relief, celebrating a life-changing achievement.
june 14
Recognized as one of the largest coordinated demonstrations in United States history, the No Kings protest saw an estimated 12.1 million participants marching in over 2,000 cities across the country. In San Luis Obispo, approximately 3,000 to 5,000 locals gathered to march from the city courthouse to Mission Plaza, joining together with signs, chants, and music.
REVIEW
june 25
Welcome Home Village, a nonprofit helping transition unhoused SLO residents into long-term housing, has officially broken ground. Located in Bishop Medical Center’s parking lot, the project was delayed but downsized from 80 to 54 tiny homes. Developer Azure Printed Homes has begun 3D printing—the largest such project in California—cutting construction costs and labor.
june 30
With over 40 years of graciously serving the SLO community, Wilshire Health and Community Services is sadly closing its doors. Offering at-home health, hospice care, and a variety of therapy to thousands, this will be a devastating loss to so many needy patients, their grieving families and close to 100 employees undergoing layoffs.
july 3
Goodlion Hospitality Group, a husband and wife duo from Santa Barbara, celebrates the grand opening of its latest project–Condesa Mexican Restaurant & Cocktail Bar. At the corner of Monterey and California, Condesa is the new hot spot for carefully curated cocktails, a warm and moody dining experience, and a flavorful taste of Mexico City. Misty Orman and Brandon Ristaino, Goodlion founders since 2014, explain “Our inspiration comes from the vibrant Condesa neighborhood in Mexico City–a place where art, architecture, world class cocktails and culinary creativity collide.” They also serve up a little splash of Southern France on the cocktail menu, as a nod to Petit Soleil, the french-inspired boutique hotel directly next door, also in the Goodlion family.
july 4
Posted at the beach or grilling in the backyard, cheering at a parade or oohing and awwing under the booming fireworks, SLO County folks had plenty of options for celebrating the fourth. The holiday itself landing on a Friday, along with scorching valley temperatures, resulted in approximately 80,000-90,000 people in Pismo Beach watching the fireworks show, and another 20,000-30,000 attending the display in Cayucos. Atascadero, Arroyo Grande, and Morro Bay hosted local art and music festivals, while Solvang and Templeton hosted annual street parades. And for the furry lovers and friends (as we know this is a tough day for animals), Avila Beach put on its annual pancake breakfast and Doggie Parade.
july 7
The Madre Fire, the largest California wildfire this year to date, was 62% contained just after the holiday weekend, totaling more than 80,000 of burned acreage along Highway 166. The Cuyama Valley fire began on Wednesday, July 2nd, and escalated quickly across the grasslands due to hot, windy weather conditions. When asked about the dry soil and brush in the area, spokesperson for the Los Padres National Forrest, Andrew Madsen, replied that “It’s drier than a popcorn fart.” The original cause of the wildfire still remains “under investigation” at this time.
#11
Lake Nacimiento was ranked number 11 out of 16 in a recent list of California’s best lakes, highlighting its appeal among outdoor destinations. Known for its distinctive dragon-like shape, the lake o ers over 165 miles of shoreline and a variety of recreational opportunities such as shing, boating, and hiking. is ranking re ects Lake Nacimiento’s growing reputation as a prime spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
and the Award goes to...
e 2025 San Luis Obispo County Wine Industry Awards honored Aron Nevarez as Wine Grape Grower of the Year, Molly Bohlman as Winemaker of the Year, Christopher Taranto as Wine Industry Person of the Year, and awarded Libbie Agran a Lifetime Achievement Award. e community celebrated these leaders at a free awards event on July 18 during the California Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles.
70 Years
A devastating re destroyed Templeton Feed & Grain, a beloved local business that had served the community for over 70 years. e blaze, sparked by an illegal rework on July 5, 2025, leveled the historic building and grain silos, leaving the structure uninsured and the owners heartbroken.
Atascadero is celebrating the near completion of its $12 million El Camino Real downtown improvement project, which added over 100 parking spots, reduced tra c lanes, and shortened crosswalks to enhance pedestrian and bicyclist safety.
ROTC
Cal Poly’s Army ROTC program, a long-standing part of the university since the 1950s, will conclude at the end of the 2026–2027 academic year. e U.S. Army’s decision to close the program is part of a broader initiative to reduce the civilian workforce, with considerations including enrollment trends, o cer commissioning rates, and geographic location. Over its 70year history, the program has commissioned more than 1,400 o cers into the Army, Army Reserve, and National Guard.
3,000+ $12 MILLIOn “off to the races!”
10 feet tall
A team of Cal Poly engineering students recently installed a 10-foot-tall, windpowered poppy and butter y sculpture in the Children’s Garden at the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden. Created as their senior project, the sculpture blends art and engineering while honoring the garden’s poppy logo.
81,899
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo received a record-breaking 81,899 applications for Fall 2025 and admitted 22,531 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of about 27.5%. More than 7,000 students have con rmed their enrollment for the upcoming academic year.
San Luis Obispo’s Concerts in the Plaza series has become a beloved summer tradition, attracting thousands of attendees each Friday evening. As of July 2025, the event has drawn approximately 40,000 attendees over the first few weeks, averaging 3,000 to 4,000 people per night. This marks one of the most popular season, with the series being one of the largest free concert events on the Central Coast .
is year’s California Mid-State Fair was “O to the Races” with a thrilling theme that captured the excitement of summer on the Central Coast. With an estimated attendance of over 335,000 visitors, the 2025 fair delivered nonstop entertainment through chart-topping concerts, rodeos, livestock shows, and classic carnival fun for all ages.
$90,000
The first phase of Arroyo Grande’s Buy Local Gift Card Program wrapped up as a success, with the city’s $10,000 investment generating about $90,000 in local spending in just over three weeks. The program offered $20 gift cards to shoppers who spent $100 or more at participating Village businesses.
LAZY EVENING AT CAL POLY
BY MARK NAKAMURA
When Most people think of hiking in San Luis Obispo, they picture Cerro San Luis (often called Madonna Mountain), Bishop Peak, Terrace Hill, or perhaps Reservoir Canyon’s climb to the tower above High School Hill. But tucked just behind Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, lies a quieter, more personal path—one that leads to the campus’s beloved hillside letter: the “P.”
Cal Poly offers a surprising number of hiking options, from a leisurely stroll through the Architectural Graveyard in Poly Canyon to the undulating hills surrounding the university. Hiking to the “P” is one of the easiest and most rewarding routes, especially for those seeking a short, scenic trek with sunset views.
The iconic “P” on the hillside above Cal Poly was first constructed in 1919 by students who wanted to leave a visible mark of school pride. Originally made of stones and whitewash, the “P” was periodically rebuilt or refreshed over the decades. In the 1950s, it was briefly converted into a “CP” (for Cal Poly) before eventually returning to the simpler single-letter form. Maintained by student volunteers, the “P” remains a fixture of the campus landscape, visible from downtown and beloved by generations of Mustangs.
The trail begins near the old red-brick dormitories off Grand Avenue, across from the Performing Arts Center. Parking on campus is strictly enforced on weekdays, so I usually visit after 5:00 p.m. on Fridays or on weekends to avoid both parking permits and crowds.
For this late winter hike, I parked near the intersection of North Perimeter Drive and Village Drive. From there, I wandered behind the aging brick dorms along Truckee Road until I found the dirt trail leading up the hill. With ongoing construction, the route may be harder to spot these days— but the key is to keep your eyes on the large white “P” emblazoned on the hillside and simply head in that direction.
My friend Nate and I hiked to the letter and then continued past it, taking an informal trail that winds toward the summit. At the top, we were rewarded with sweeping views of campus and the city beyond—bathed in the golden light of a sinking sun. On our way back down, I stopped to snap a photo of the vibrant sky, with two Cal Poly students silhouetted at the base of the painted “P.”
As many of you may have noticed, I tend to chase the light. Most of my photographs are taken at sunrise or sunset, times when the world feels softer and more beautiful. Author Cheryl Strayed once wrote, “There’s always a sunrise and always a sunset and it’s up to you to choose to be there for it… Put yourself in the way of beauty.” That’s exactly what I try to do.
SLO LIFE
james brescia
Just a few days ago, we had the pleasure of sitting down with San Luis Obispo County Superintendent JAMES BRESCIA, who shared personal insights and gave us an inside look at our county’s education system. Here are a few highlights from our conversation...
Let’s start off by talking about you, James. Where are you from and how did you end up here?
I’ve lived here since 1989, but I grew up in Santa Clara and went to college in San Diego, where I started teaching. My wife earned her nursing degree there too. Once we began working, we wanted to be closer to family, so we moved north. Santa Cruz County was pricey, and my grandparents had brie y lived in San Luis Obispo County after WWII. ey encouraged us to consider it. Back in the ‘80s, it was one of the few a ordable places in California—we were able to buy a house on a teacher and nurse’s salary, which seems impossible today. We loved the area and chose to raise our two daughters here. At one point, we had four generations living in this community.
What made you interested in the educational profession? And tell us a bit about your history in the field.
I was originally in a graduate psychology program to become a therapist but realized it wasn’t the right path. A teacher friend pointed out how much I enjoyed tutoring and working in the math lab and encouraged me to consider teaching. I started in 1986, just as computer labs were being introduced in schools, and became a K–6 computer lab teacher. In the late ’80s, I began teaching in pastoral roles and later worked for the Catholic Church for 15 years as a school and parish administrator. I also served as a program specialist in migrant education for both Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.
I spent 20 years at Cal Poly in the School of Education, teaching everything from introductory courses for future teachers to graduate classes for school administrators. After that, I became an administrator in Templeton, then served as superintendent in Cayucos. In 2014, I was elected as the county superintendent.
what do you want people to know about San Luis Obispo education system?
San Luis Obispo County has a comprehensive
but small education system, with about 35,000 school-age children out of 280,000 residents. Enrollment peaked over a decade ago and has since declined. Still, K–12 education remains vital—it’s our future workforce. A major challenge is a ordability for growing families, making it harder to stay in the area.
On the positive side, the Cuesta Promise o ers free tuition to all local high school graduates, which creates real opportunity. While we only have one state university with limited transfer access, we o er strong local training options. From apprenticeships to career pathways in the trades, there are many ways for young people to succeed. Our goal is to make sure they see those options—whether they stay here or leave for school, we want them to know there’s something worth coming back to.
Besides the traditional K-12, what other programs does SLO County offer?
San Luis Obispo County o ers strong alternative education programs through the county o ce, including SLO Partners, a career technical education initiative. We support students with special needs or those who’ve faced challenges through programs like the Court and Community School—serving youth in juvenile hall or those expelled from traditional schools. We also o er specialized programs for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students, as well as Grizzly Youth Academy for youth with emotional or behavioral needs.
What kind advice or words of wisdom would you give someone entering this field?
If someone new is entering our eld, rst and foremost, it is a very rewarding job. I’ve never regretted entering the profession. You’re able to make a positive impact on the next generation and provide for an educated citizenry. You always should be asking yourself, “What are you preparing them for?”. And the answer is always, “the next step”. In whatever these young people choose to do, it’s a tremendous privilege to be in this eld.
josh rosenblum band
BY AARON BURKHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSIKA BENHAMAND AND LIZ KAY
before there was a band, there was just Josh Rosenblum— playing solo shows and writing music that fused jazz, funk, pop, and blues with heartfelt lyricism. As performances grew and collaborations deepened, it was only natural that his act would evolve. Audiences and venues alike began referring to the ensemble as “Josh Rosenblum and his band,” which organically led to the creation of the Josh Rosenblum Band.
What began as a tight-knit group of high school friends in Modesto, California—Josh Rosenblum, Andrew Melendez, and Cedric Jones—has since expanded into a uid, collective roster of talented musicians. Today, the band includes Teddy Ramirez and Cedric Jones on drums, Joe Duran and Andrew Melendez on bass, Andrew Rosenblum and Colin Honberger on brass, and Elliott Dominguez handling percussion and keyboards. Josh himself anchors the group with vocals, guitar, and songwriting.
ough members have come and gone over the years, the spirit of the band remains the same: a shared passion for music, collaboration, and live performance. After relocating to Southern California, Rosenblum re-formed the band on the Central Coast, welcoming SLO County locals Teddy Ramirez and Joe Duran into the fold. e result is a rotating, genre-blending ensemble that brings both consistency and creative freedom to every performance.
Rosenblum, originally from Modesto like several of his longtime bandmates, is a full-time musician and producer. He brie y pursued a degree in music performance but soon found himself missing classes for gigs. e decision to leave school was ultimately a leap of faith that paid o —allowing him to focus fully on his songwriting career. Today, he splits his time between solo work and band shows, releasing records, and performing across California.
e musical roots run deep for Rosenblum. He grew up in a jazz-saturated household, his grandfather a session trumpet player in St. Louis and his father following suit. ough his mother jokes that she “plays the radio,” he credits her with introducing him to rock and pop—key early in uences in his musical development. Rosenblum picked up the guitar at age fourteen and taught himself to play, a move that set the foundation for his genre-defying style.
Most of the band members either grew up in musical households or pursued formal education in music, creating
a shared language of sound and intuition. Rosenblum’s own inspirations span a wide range, from John Mayer and Stevie Wonder to Tower of Power, Dave Matthews Band, and Eric Clapton.
Pinning down the band’s genre is no easy task. eir sound oats between pop and rock, but it’s infused with elements of funk, jazz, blues, and folk. is fusion is at the heart of their music—a constantly evolving style that re ects each musician’s unique background.
e band’s performance history is equally diverse, ranging from intimate co eehouses to major venues across Central and Southern California—and even as far as Nashville and Reno. Highlights include opening for Sublime at the Mid-State Fair, headlining the State eatre in Modesto, playing e Lighthouse in Hermosa Beach, and performing at prestigious songwriter showcases in Nashville. Locally, they’re a regular presence at SLO County’s summer park concerts.
eir discography includes eight studio albums and two live recordings. e most recent release, Beautiful and Wild, is a powerful compilation that threads together themes of lifelong love, self-worth, and modern disillusionment. e album features contributions from both current and original band members, paying homage to the group’s history while continuing to push their sound forward. Central to the album are recurring mantras of “coming together” and “believing in yourself”—messages Rosenblum hopes will remind listeners that love is always worth ghting for.
For Rosenblum, the SLO County music scene is among the most welcoming and eclectic he’s experienced in California. “Of all the scenes I’ve been a part of, this one is incredibly rich and diverse,” he said. “It welcomes artists of all types. I hope it continues to grow, to give opportunities to new voices, and to build a strong, connected community.”
Like most working musicians, the band has its share of quirky stories. One particularly unforgettable moment occurred at a liquor convention in Reno, where the group performed a four-hour, ’80s hair metal–themed set in full costume—wigs, shnets, boots, and all. To stay in character, they even wandered the convention oor in costume during breaks. Later that same day, they pivoted seamlessly into a fourhour lounge set at the same casino. “Jungle juice was owing, people were tripping on stage. It was hilarious,” Rosenblum recalled.
For fans looking to connect with the band’s music, upcoming show dates and event info can be found on Rosenblum’s website. With plans to continue touring and writing, the Josh Rosenblum Band shows no sign of slowing down. Whether they’re performing a funky anthem or an introspective ballad, the band invites listeners into a soundscape where every note re ects the journey—and joy—of making music.
pro file
Brittany is a San Luis Obispo-based artist whose creativity is as vibrant as the murals she paints. A Cal Poly graduate with a degree in civil engineering, she balances her fulltime work as a licensed professional engineer with a flourishing art practice rooted in both technical precision and emotional expression. In this interview, Brittany shares how her imaginative childhood, love for Halloween, and deep appreciation for the Central Coast have shaped her journey from blueprints to brushstrokes. Here is her story . . .
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY DESJARDINS
sso brittany, let’s start off by talking about where you’re originally from.
I’m originally from La Verne, California—that’s in Los Angeles County, right by the fairgrounds. It’s a really family-oriented town. We lived near a whole network of canyons, so my family was outside constantly. We were always doing something: hiking, playing sports, just being active. I was always signed up for every activity under the sun. I had my hands in everything. I think that sort of upbringing gave me a really wellrounded and imagination-driven childhood. I never remember being bored—I always had something going on. My parents were super encouraging when it came to creativity. ey really let me explore art in cool and unusual ways. One of my favorite times of year growing up was Halloween. My neighborhood was intense about it—everyone on our street went all out. Like, every house was decked out, and it became one of those spots people would speci cally go to for trick-ortreating. My parents let me take the lead when it came to decorating our house. I used to make blueprints for what I wanted to build, and my dad would take me to Home Depot multiple times so I could bring my vision to life. ey gave me total creative freedom and also taught me how to execute these big, artistic projects. Looking back, that experience taught me so much about following through on a vision, and it gave me a ton of artistic con dence. At the time, it just felt like I was having fun. But now I can see how those moments really shaped the way I see and approach art.
How did you end up in San Luis Obispo?
I studied civil engineering, got my degree, and ended up meeting my ancé while we were both at Cal Poly. at was the cherry on top.
What are you and your fiancé up to now?
After graduation, we actually moved to San Diego. at was during COVID. I had taken a job there and it made sense at the time. But in 2022, we decided to move back to SLO so my ancé could attend paramedic school. Now he’s a re ghter paramedic for the city of Atascadero. We always knew we loved San Luis Obispo—we fell in love with it as students. But when we came back as adults, it just felt even more right. We were ready for a change of pace. Once he landed the job, we knew we wanted to make this our long-term home. It just feels like the place we’re supposed to be.
Do you remember when you first started getting into art?
I feel like I’ve been doing art for as long as I can remember. At rst, it was just like any other kid—drawing to entertain myself. I had an idea, I wanted to see it come to life, and I’d just go for it. at kind of pure, impulsive creativity is really special.
But things changed for me in middle school and high school. I started struggling with anxiety and depression around that time. Art became more than just a pastime; it became a coping mechanism. It was a way to process what I was feeling, even if I couldn’t articulate it in words. at’s when art stopped being just something I did in my free time and became part of my identity.
wow! That’s a powerful shift. And at the same time, you were pursuing a career in engineering?
It’s funny because when I was touring colleges, I had this really romantic idea that I was going to go to school on the East Coast. I hadn’t even spent any time there, but something about it sounded magical to me— you know, old brick buildings, seasons, all that. When i came to visit Cal Poly and everything changed. It was such a perfect day when I came to tour the campus. e weather was beautiful, the town was adorable, and everyone seemed genuinely happy. I knew next to nothing about San Luis Obispo at that point, but I immediately felt like I belonged there. Cal Poly also has a really strong civil engineering program, which is what I planned to study. So it checked all the boxes. I applied, got in, and that was it. >>
Exactly. I always had this duality in me. I loved art, but I was also really strong in math and science. In high school, I made the decision to follow that academic strength and pursue civil engineering. I wanted to see where that could take me.
So I put my energy into that path, got into Cal Poly, and ended up becoming a licensed professional engineer. I still work 40 hours a week as an engineer. at’s my day job.
But in all my other waking hours, I’m doing art.
Do you find that your engineering background helps with your art? Totally. ere’s a huge crossover, especially when it comes to mural work. When I’m translating a design from my iPad to a huge wall, I need to gure out scale, layout,
and logistics. How do I get up there safely? What tools do I need? What proportions am I working with? That’s my engineering brain kicking in.
Also, attention to detail. That’s a big one. I used to get really fixated on making things realistic. I think that came from the engineering mindset—this idea that something is either right or wrong. But art doesn’t work like that. There’s no right or wrong in art; there’s only how it makes you feel. Sometimes I have to consciously quiet that analytical voice. Let the creative side lead. But honestly, having both has made me a better artist.
What styles or mediums are you working in these days?
I bounce around a lot. I get bored easily, so I like to experiment. Right now, I love doing murals. But I also love oil painting and drawing. Switching it up helps keep me inspired and keeps different parts of my brain engaged.
When I’m not painting murals, I’m usually working on oil paintings on canvas or wood panel. I love landscapes and organic subjects— birds, animals, feathers, scales. There are so many colors and textures. And there’s a little freedom in that. Like, if I’m painting a crane, everyone will still know it’s a bird, even if they see it differently. It’s not like painting someone’s grandpa where it has to be exact. That gives me a bit more freedom.
Do you draw a lot of inspiration from San Luis Obispo?
Oh, absolutely. I actually did a mini-series called Local Landscapes. I painted Bishop’s Peak, Spooner’s Cove in Montaña de Oro, and the trail up to Oats Peak. I tell people all the time—I’ll be driving on the freeway, catch a glimpse of Madonna Mountain, and just start crying. This place is so stunning. It hits me in the most unexpected ways.
My fiancé and I were just up on the Oats Peak trail the other >>
night. We caught the sunset and watched the fog roll in over the hills. I just thought, I can’t believe we get to live here.
What do you think about the art scene here in SLO?
Being part of the community long-term instead of just a college student, I see a whole different side of it. The creative energy here is real, and the community really supports local artists. I would say 60 to 70 percent of the jobs I’ve gotten have come through word of mouth. People here want to support each other. There’s also this amazing spirit of collaboration. For example, the team behind Marmalade Mural Co. is incredible. They just did that gorgeous mural on the TR Street bridge and the airport elevator shaft. They’re the coolest people ever. And they’re so supportive. And what I really like about, they’ll reach out every once in a while with opportunities that they don’t have the capacity for. So rather than gatekeeper their clients and be like, these are my projects, it’s like, “Hey, I thought this might be a good
fit for you.” And just that kind of attitude, that kind of community of, I feel secure enough in my business and what I’m doing to help you out now. That’s a really special thing. And here I just feel like everyone’s looking for local artists. Everyone wants artists to be a part of it. I feel like that is really special and really obvious once I made my way back here.
You mentioned you met your fiancé in college. What’s the story there?
We actually met while we were both dating other people. So nothing happened at first. But after we’d both moved on, a mutual friend set up a group hangout and we reconnected. That night, I remember thinking, “Wow, I never realized how cool you are.” We’ve pretty much been inseparable since. That was in 2017. We’re getting married this November! Halloween is a big deal for both of us. I mentioned how much I love it, and he does too. So we’re doing our rehearsal dinner on Halloween at Schooners in Cayucos. They host a costume party every year with a live band. >>
"Graham was recommended to me by a retired real estate broker and she did not steer me wrong. I was happy I chose him to represent me for both the sale of my home and the purchase of a new one. Graham is e cient, responsive, knowledgeable and went beyond the call of duty. You won't go wrong with Graham as your agent.”
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805.459.1865 | Lic. #01873454 graham @ ccreslo.com
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3220 South Higuera #233, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Linda Elder, Avila Beach
We’re going to have a masquerade theme—a little fancy, a little fun. So we can still get the “grownup pictures”, but then also we’ll have our masks on for after dinner and we can go boogie with everybody. We can’t wait!
What’s different about living in SLO now versus when you were in college?
In college, you kind of live in a bubble. You’re focused on classes, your friends, and maybe a few bars you always go to. You don’t really experience the full depth of the town. Now, as a working adult who lives here permanently, I’m seeing a totally di erent side. I work from home, unless I’m out painting. My circle now includes other professionals, small business owners, artists—it’s more diverse. I spend more time in nature, hiking, going to the beach. I’m soaking in the town in a way I didn’t before. And it’s funny—some of the places I used to wait in line to get into, like Frog & Peach, I now know the owners. I even painted murals for a few of them. at’s been a surreal full-circle moment.
Are there any dream projects you’re hoping to tackle soon?
Yes! I’ve been dreaming about doing a very large-scale mural that’s super organic—lots of birds, owers, bright colors, high contrast. I’ve had my eye on a few public-facing walls around town that I think could be transformed into something beautiful. e new parking garage downtown is a big one. I saw them smoothing the concrete and thought, “I need to be up there with my brushes!” It’s such a blank canvas. So… hello, SLO parking lot! I’m available! Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of sign painting, which I love and am super grateful for. But I would also love the chance to do something more creative and freeform—something that adds color and vibrancy to public space just for the joy of it.
519 words with danny derrick
BY AARON BURKHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETER HEIRENDT
If you’ve never heard of Bootjack,California, you’re not alone. Just outside Yosemite National Park, the unincorporated mountain town has no stoplights—just a gas station known for its fried chicken. But for tattoo artist Danny Derrick, it was the perfect place to grow up.
“I’m the youngest of five,” Derrick says. “Growing up in the ’80s and ’90s in the mountains was pretty amazing.” Despite its rural setting, Bootjack had a tight subculture of punk and skateboarding. “We had the only stretch of smooth asphalt in the neighborhood, so our house became the go-to skate spot. We built rails and kickers, stashed them in the woods, and dragged them out after school to skate to the Ramones or Minor Threat.”
That punk energy carried into early adulthood. Derrick played in bands and toured with New Tomorrow. But he also needed work. “I needed a job where I didn’t have to cut off my mohawk,” he says. At eighteen, he landed a job answering phones at a San Luis Obispo tattoo shop. Already getting tattooed himself, he was drawn to the medium.
Soon, he began a traditional apprenticeship under tattooer Craig Beasley in Georgia. “I lived with Craig, so it was art 24/7. Tattooing during the day, painting and drawing at night. Every moment was a lesson.”
Now back on the Central Coast, Derrick has been tattooing professionally for over fourteen years and owns San Luis Tattoo
Company. His work has become known for its clean execution and emotional clarity—hallmarks of the American Traditional style.
“I know my tattoos have a recognizable look,” Derrick explains. “It’s evolved gradually over time from lots of small choices—my drawing materials, needle groupings, color palette. The repetition of these decisions leads to a consistent result.”
He roots his work in the bold structure of American Traditional, using large fields of black and open skin for contrast and clarity. “But I like to push it further with subtle single-source lighting and cast shadows. And when I use color, I really pack it in—saturated warm tones balanced by muted cools.”
The appeal of Traditional goes beyond aesthetics. “It’s the style I was trained in as an apprentice. It holds up—both fresh and sixty years later. A lot of styles look great at first but fall apart as they age. Traditional has structure and durability. It’s what Bart Simpson got. It’s what I saw lining the walls of the first shop I ever walked into when I was nine.”
Still, Derrick acknowledges the misconceptions. “People say it’s cartoony or too simple, but that’s a misunderstanding. I’ve seen classically trained fine artists struggle with it. Perfecting simplicity is hard. It’s like the sushi chefs who spend ten years learning to cook an egg.”
These days, Derrick finds the most satisfaction not in trends, but in timelessness. “The longer I do this,” he says, “the more I appreciate what lasts—bold lines, smart design, and tattoos that still speak decades after they’re done.”
“Tattooing gave me a future doing something I love,” he says. “And it let me build that future in San Luis Obispo—my favorite place on earth.”
Ripple effect
BY BRIAN SCHWARTZ
John Couch never planned to become a computer scientist. Starting in physics at UC Berkeley, John Couch found himself drowning in memorization—until a chance encounter with programming in a horticulture class changed everything. e visual logic of code clicked instantly, launching a career that would span decades at Apple and fundamentally reshape how we think about education and technology.
In 1978, while working at Hewlett-Packard, Couch’s boss introduced him to a young Steve Jobs, whom he described as a visionary driven by “a higher power.” Jobs was captivating audiences with his “bicycle for the mind” concept—the idea that computers could amplify human intellect in the same way bicycles made us incredibly e cient movers. is philosophy became Apple’s north star.
In 1969, while sitting in front of a $7.5 million computer at UC Berkeley and watching student protests outside, Couch concluded that society would change more through technological innovation than through demonstrations. He recognized that the real challenge wasn’t building powerful computers—it was making them accessible to everyone.
After ve years at Apple, Couch made the conscious decision to leave in order to spend more time with his family. His next mission involved turning around a struggling Christian school in North County San Diego.
Ten years later, when Jobs returned to Apple, he recruited Couch to focus on the education sector. Over the next decade, Couch helped build Apple’s education business into a $10 billion enterprise. But he also witnessed a troubling shift. e early days at Apple had fostered exploration and creativity, but the rise of standardized testing was creating a new kind of computer illiteracy— students who could use computers but not creatively.
is frustration led Couch to write Rewiring Education: How Technology Can Unlock Every Student’s Potential, a book advocating for challenge-based learning built on relevance, creativity, collaboration, and real-world challenges. His message isn’t to burn down the education system but to rewire it—not to build on what teachers know, but to foster the innate curiosity that drives authentic learning.
Today, Couch continues to share his vision through his books, which he o ers for free in his winery’s tasting room next to Woodstock’s Pizza in downtown San Luis Obispo. It’s part of his broader mission: connecting with the community and passing on the wisdom he gained from his time with Jobs.
Beyond family proximity, Couch saw his move to San Luis Obispo four years ago as an opportunity for new projects and philanthropic endeavors. ese include establishing a downtown vineyard on the 48-acre Bressi Ranch to cultivate Italian varietals—a “street ministry,” in his words, and a vehicle for giving back rather than for high pro tability.
Steve Jobs didn’t just recruit John Couch—he helped shape a philosophy of innovation that continues to ripple outward, proving that the most important inventions aren’t always products, but the ideas that inspire people to create a better future.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Sky katics
Meet a driven and thoughtful SLOHS student who balances academic excellence, athletics, and creativity with a deep curiosity about people and the world around her. From basketball courts to playing guitar, she brings heart to everything she does—whether she’s sprinting on the track, or dreaming about a future in psychology.
What are some accomplishments you are most proud of? I’ve received the Academic Excellence awards, the Scholar Athlete award, and Most Improved in both basketball and track my sophomore year. Last year, I was named Most Outstanding Sprinter in track and received the Golden Tiger Academic award for AP Environmental Science.
What do you like to do outside of school and sports? I love being outside—whether it’s hiking, going to the beach, or just hanging out with friends and family. I think it is important to balance time between school, sports, and having fun. I also play guitar and enjoy working with kids. I was part of the Tiny Tigers program at school and I babysit too.
How did you spend your summer? I took one class at Cuesta and did summer basketball and track. This past summer was very fun but am also sad because this is the last time I will get to do summer sports which I will miss a lot. I also starting a new job which was exciting!
Do you have a career path in mind? I want to go into Psychology. I’ve always been fascinated by how people think and interact. I want to understand why people do what they do and how the mind works. The interpersonal dynamics of people, and how the mind works fascinates me and I want to learn more about it.
If you could go back in history and meet anyone, who would it be? If I could go back in time I would want to meet my parents when they were my age. I think it would be interesting to see what they were like when they were teenagers and how much they have changed.
what do you think we could we improve in the world? Something I want to change about the world is how people treat each other. I think that everybody is equal and that people need to understand that everyone has value and learn to be kind.
What schools are you considering for college? I think I am going to stay in-state but I am not sure yet. As of now, I am looking at the UCs and Cal States. SLO LIFE
TUF
Tuf is a spirited three-and-a-half-year-old Australian Kelpie with a love for cattle work, chasing lizards, and splashing in water troughs. Named after rodeo champion Tuf Cooper, he’s smart, protective, and full of personality—trained by whistle and always at owner Eleanor’s side. Despite a rattlesnake bite last year, he’s as active and loyal as ever. SLO LIFE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSA CLARK
ELEANOR TRUOCCHIO and TUF
together by design
BY DANA LOSSING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID LALUSH
SSoaring housing costs, a persistent a ordability crisis, and evolving cultural norms are compelling a growing number of California families to rethink traditional living arrangements. For many, the solution lies in a return to a classic model: multigenerational households. Whether under one roof or across adjacent properties, families are rediscovering a host of bene ts that extend far beyond cost-sharing.
is is exactly what John Tricamo, his wife, Brittany, and their parents have chosen to do. A general contractor with more than twenty years of local experience, John was uniquely equipped to design and build a family compound that prioritized both connection and independence. When a vacant lot came up for sale on Upham Street in downtown San Luis Obispo, the couple saw more than just land—they saw an opportunity to build a way of life.
ey purchased the lot in June 2021 and partnered with architect Joel Snyder of Ten Over Studio to divide the property into three separate parcels. Snyder guided them through the entitlements process, helping to secure approvals for both the lot split and architectural design on a relatively expedited schedule. e vision was a small-scale neighborhood of their own: three two-story Spanish-style residences, including one with tenant parking below and a commercial storefront facing Upham Street. >>
John took on the site planning himself, staying remarkably close to his original concept sketch. He knew he wanted each home to capture the surrounding views of the Morros while maintaining privacy between them, which meant careful placement of windows and openings. He also created shared outdoor spaces that would naturally invite connection among the kids, the grandparents, and even the family’s human-sized dog.
The result is a warm and welcoming mini-compound: a cluster of homes that feel both individual and intertwined. Two of the three properties share a grassy courtyard where the family regularly plays together under the shade of a towering, ancient redwood.
Of course, living close to family can come with its challenges. That’s where the careful planning of site and home layouts was key. Each property feels private enough to retreat to, with its own views and unique experiences. Light fills each home differently throughout the day, and the living spaces and bedrooms were thoughtfully placed at opposite ends of each home to maximize privacy.
At the back of the property, John and Brittany’s home sits at the end of the stone-paved central driveway. A grand Spanishstyle door opens into a dramatic two-story foyer, where the eye is immediately drawn upward to a chandelier and the second-floor overlook. On the first floor, an open-concept kitchen and living room wrap around a covered patio, creating a seamless indoor–outdoor connection to the grass-filled >>
side yard where the old redwood towers. Along the back fence, John has planted a mix of bougainvillea and espaliered fruit trees, which will mature into a natural privacy screen between properties.
Upstairs, the second floor is devoted to family life—bedrooms for the kids, a generous playroom-style landing, and a serene primary suite. From their bed, John and Brittany enjoy a sweeping view of Madonna Mountain. Their ensuite bathroom feels warm and grounding, with bronze fixtures and Spanish-inspired accent tile that ties the home’s aesthetic together.
Next door, Brittany’s parents have settled into their own twostory residence. After some deliberation, they chose to sell their previous home in the nearby Stoneridge neighborhood and move onto the joint property. Their new home mirrors John and Brittany’s in layout but inverts the arrangement: the bedrooms are tucked downstairs for privacy, while the living area and kitchen are upstairs, including a covered balcony that shares the view of the redwood tree and common yard below.
Recognizing that accessibility might become more important over time, they also installed a residential elevator, ensuring the home remains livable for years to come. The interior furnishings are a mix of old and new—some lovingly carried over from their previous home, others selected in collaboration with Ten Over Studio’s interior design team to reflect their evolving style. >>
The third lot rounds out the compound with rental housing and a small commercial space. These tenant units were always part of John and Brittany’s original plan—not just as a way to help offset costs but also as a contribution to housing in a city where it’s urgently needed. The tenant entrance is located on the side of the property, separate from the family zones, to preserve privacy. Still, there’s a sense of neighborly ease when tenants and family members pass one another in the central driveway, waving hello and catching up in passing. In many ways, it functions like a small cul-de-sac: safe, quiet, communal.
The entire project is a compelling reimagining of what modern family living can look like in California. It reflects both the economic realities of today’s housing market and a growing desire for deeper familial connection. By embracing multigenerational living, the Tricamos haven’t just built a trio of beautiful homes—they’ve created a place where support flows naturally between generations, where privacy and togetherness are equally valued, and where design serves life, not the other way around.
Their Upham Street compound stands as a testament to what’s possible when vision, planning, and family come together. In a state where the housing conversation often revolves around limitations, this project offers an inspiring counterpoint: a story about what can be built—and who can be brought together— when we reimagine how we live. SLO LIFE
laguna lake
REAL ESTATE BY THE NUMBERS
tank farm
cal poly area
country club
down town
Total
Financing Dreams on the Central Coast
With nearly 40 years of combined experience, we understand the loan process and are dedicated to helping our clients make informed decisions through responsive, consultative customer service. We are deeply connected in the local market with all of the benefits of being backed by one of the largest mortgage companies in the country.
When our daughter was five, my husband and I—longtime Central Coast residents of over twenty years—faced the daunting task of finding the right kindergarten for our sensitive little girl. She was easily overwhelmed, and her pronounced stutter, which crept into every sentence, was beginning to chip away at her confidence. Like many parents, we relied on forty-five minutes of morning cartoons just to carve out a moment to breathe and prep for our busy workdays as entrepreneurs. But everything shifted when we discovered the Central Coast Waldorf School in Los Osos.
Inspired by the school’s philosophy, we tried a week-long screenfree experiment. By day six, her stutter was gone. That moment changed everything. Here’s why unplugging and embracing alternative education—like Waldorf—can be transformative for sensitive kids’ mental health and wellness.
Our Journey to Central Coast Waldorf
As we toured kindergartens in San Luis Obispo, we encountered Montessori waitlists a year long and had an underwhelming experience with SLO Classical Academy. Then we visited the Central Coast Waldorf School—formerly Wishing Well School—
just twenty minutes from downtown SLO in Los Osos. During the tour, I found myself in tears. The classrooms were filled with children painting, singing, and playing outdoors—completely free from screens.
For parents of sensitive children, especially those who struggle in more traditional settings, it felt like a sanctuary. Now accredited by the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA), this pre-K through eighth-grade school offers a nurturing, screen-free haven. For families who want something more than mainstream education but lack the time to homeschool, it’s a rare and valuable option.
The Power of Going Screen-Free
When we enrolled our daughter, we were initially hesitant about the school’s screen-free philosophy. After all, those forty-five minutes of cartoons each morning were our lifeline. But her stutter—which had led to $600 speech therapy sessions and was steadily eroding her confidence— convinced us to give it a try.
To our surprise, by the sixth day of going screen-free, her stutter was gone. We were stunned. We scaled back to just one Saturday morning movie, and her confidence bloomed. Research supports what we experienced. A 2023 MDPI study linked high screen time to reduced attention and
increased anxiety in children under eight—particularly those who are more sensitive to stimuli. A 2024 JAMA study found that reducing screens for just two weeks improved focus and behavior.
According to Dr. Victoria Dunckley, screens can leave sensitive kids in a “wired and tired” state, triggering issues like meltdowns or, in our daughter’s case, stuttering. Going screen-free boosts sleep by eliminating blue light exposure, sparks creativity through imaginative play, and strengthens social-emotional development. At Central Coast Waldorf, the screen-free approach—rooted in storytelling, art, and nature—helped our daughter thrive in ways we never imagined.
Why Waldorf Works for Sensitive Kids
The Central Coast Waldorf School’s holistic approach is grounded in Rudolf Steiner’s educational philosophy. Unlike traditional schools that push early academics and screen exposure, Waldorf delays reading until around age seven, aligning with children’s natural developmental stages.
The early years focus on music, movement, and hands-on activities like gardening and knitting—ideal for calming sensitive kids who are easily overstimulated by rigid curricula or digital media. A 2023 AWSNA report shows that Waldorf graduates consistently excel in creative problem-solving. Perhaps that’s why so many Silicon Valley entrepreneurs choose Waldorf education for their own children, fully aware of tech’s toll on mental health.
For working parents like us who aren’t able to homeschool, Waldorf’s long-term teacher-student relationships and tight-knit community offer both consistency and connection. It’s been a lifeline for our family.
Alternative Wellness on the Central Coast
Unplugging isn’t just about removing screens—it’s about making space for deeper, more meaningful experiences. Here are a few simple ways to boost your child’s wellness, inspired by our journey and Waldorf principles:
- Try a screen-free week. Replace screens with board games or bedtime storytelling. Observe changes in mood, focus, or sleep.
- Get outside. A 2016 study found that time in nature reduces stress and boosts attention. Explore Montaña de Oro or the Los Osos Oaks Reserve with your kids.
- Encourage imaginative play. Waldorf schools emphasize play as a core developmental tool. Create a craft corner or set up a fortbuilding station.
- Tour Central Coast Waldorf. Just twenty minutes from downtown SLO, the school is an ideal space for sensitive children seeking calm, creativity, and connection.
- Limit tech mindfully. For children ages three to five, follow American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines: under one hour of quality content per day, co-watched with a caregiver.
A New Perspective on Wellness
Our daughter’s experience at Central Coast Waldorf, and our family’s transition to a lower-tech lifestyle, taught us that wellness is about more than just diet or exercise—it’s about giving kids the space to grow without digital overload.
Sensitive children, in particular, flourish in environments where creativity and human connection come first. For Central Coast parents exploring alternatives to traditional education, this little school in Los Osos is a game-changer. Take a tour, try going screen-free for a week, and see what it unlocks in your child—just as it did in ours.
References
MDPI. 2023. Impact of Screen Time on Children’s Development.
Dunckley, Victoria L. 2016. Screen Time and Mood Dysregulation. Waldorf Today.
JAMA. 2024. Screen Media Use and Mental Health.
AWSNA. 2023. Waldorf Education Outcomes.
PMC. 2018. Screen Time and Psychological Well-Being.
Pretty Purple
BY TILLY WRIGHT
Halfway through the year, i sought an awakening. After struggling for months with seasonal allergies from the spring bloom, I was relieved that summer had finally arrived—and with it, the sneezing subsided at last. I could finally smell the roses again.
Feeling clear-headed and adventurous, I made my way north to San Miguel, a rural area in northern San Luis Obispo County. I had heard about a seasonal lavender farm called Hambly Lavender Farms, open from May through early September, and decided I had to see it for myself. One sunny day, I set off and found myself walking through rows and rows of blooming lavender.
Lavender is known for its vivid purple hue and calming fragrance. Before this visit, my association with lavender was limited to the essential oils stashed in my bathroom cabinet. That all changed the moment I stepped into Hambly Farms. The experience of walking through hundreds of fragrant bushes transformed my perception. Now, when I think of lavender, I think of that warm summer day—of sunshine, blossoms, and serenity.
As I explored the farm, I noticed how some of the bushes looked like they belonged in a Dr. Seuss book—fluffy and full, like Truffula trees. I half expected to bounce off them if I jumped in. Of course, I didn’t attempt it. It was clear the farm is lovingly maintained: neat rows, clean lines, and a sense of order that elevated the natural beauty.
The grounds are inviting, with white picnic tables, friendly farm animals, a welcoming store, and even a hammock swinging gently in the breeze. I spent a couple of hours there, though I could have easily spent half the day soaking in the ambiance if not for other commitments.
“We’re in our third season at Hambly Farms,” said Gina Hambly, the farm’s hands-on owner. Gina greets every visitor personally, her warm presence as much a part of the experience as the lavender itself. She encouraged me to take a deep breath and take it all in. After my visit, I felt compelled to return before the season ends on Labor Day. The farm is open Thursday through Monday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Visitors can choose between two experiences: a guided tour or a lavender U-pick. If you opt to pick your own lavender, sta at the farm store will wrap your fragrant harvest into a bouquet. I wandered solo through the lavender rows, taking breaks at the picnic tables to check work emails on my MacBook. (Yes, my T-Mobile hotspot worked perfectly—this turned out to be a surprisingly great place for remote work.)
As the morning turned to noon, the temperature began to climb. I was grateful for my wide-brimmed black hat, which shielded me from the sun and let me linger a bit longer by the lavender. Despite the heat, the wind would occasionally sweep through the farm in refreshing bursts. Once, the breeze sent my hat ying into a lavender bush. I left it there brie y—it looked so picturesque nestled in the purple—and snapped a few photos before retrieving it.
From the edge of the eld, I stood and took in the view: the rolling rows of lavender, the contrast of green and purple, and the little farm store perched atop the hill. It was a view I wished I could wake up to every day. A girl can dream.
Summer is a season of change—of graduates tossing their caps, of rising temperatures, of people exploring like the bees buzzing between lavender blossoms. It struck me how special it is that this tranquil farm is available to the public, right here in North County. Like those bees, visitors—young and old— ocked to the farm to pick lavender, relax, and enjoy a moment of peace under the sun.
Lavender is celebrated for its medicinal and calming properties, which is why it’s a staple in spas and aromatherapy. e farm store o ers an array of lavender products—lotions, oils, sprays, and more. Inside, the aroma was rich but not overpowering, and the air-conditioning was a welcome reprieve from the heat. e store had a grounded, purposeful feel.
At one point, standing in that cool, fragrant space, I became vividly aware of my thoughts and emotions—like getting hit with a one-two punch from Mike Tyson: rst a jab, then an uppercut. at’s when I knew it was time to recharge, both mentally and physically.
By the end of my visit, I had soaked in a healthy dose of lavender scent, sunshine, and movement. I left behind a trail of footsteps through the rows of owers—and took with me a sense of calm and joy I hadn’t felt in a long time.
1390 Grana Pl, San Miguel, CA Website - hamblyfarms.com Instagram - @hambly_farms
ECHOS OF THE ISLAND
BY CHUCK GRAHAM
I could hear gentle mews wafting from the back end of a massive sea cave on Santa Cruz Island, the largest island in Channel Islands National Park. Located twenty miles off the coasts of Ventura and Santa Barbara, an adorable, spotted harbor seal pup—just a couple of weeks old—was calling out to nurse. Its doting mother was off foraging for food. Soon, however, they reunited, exchanging tender nuzzles in the shallows just off the cobbled shoreline.
There are more sea caves between Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands than anywhere else in the world. The best way to experience these weathered grottos is by kayak. Paddling by stealth—slowly and efficiently—allows close encounters with resting seals, sea lions, and sixteen species of seabirds.
Channel Islands National Park offer a haven for pregnant pinnipeds searching for the best cobbled shorelines on which to pup. Birthing may occur beneath a low-lying ledge or behind a well-established rock that buffers against surging high tides. When still, harbor seals are so well camouflaged they can appear to be just another rock.
For seals and sea lions, the sea caves surrounding >>
The craggy sea caves also provide ideal habitat for secretive nocturnal seabirds such as the ashy storm petrel, Scripps’s murrelet, and the penguin-like Cassin’s auklet. These birds nest in small alcoves, seeking shallow depressions along volcanic cliffs and within cave walls that comprise the northern chain: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel Islands. These caves serve as vital refuges where seabirds can breed unencumbered and watch their offspring fledge into the open waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Surging-t
Surging-T is a massive through-cave, which means it can be entered and exited from multiple openings—and the surf can do the same. Kayakers may be challenged by waves approaching from three directions.
This cave is carved straight through a towering cliff, centuries of sea-level rise and volcanic upheaval having honeycombed the north side of the Northern Channel Islands. The result is a paddling playground, where caves are exposed to wind and swells from the north and northwest. On certain days, Surging-T and other grottos are inaccessible due to tidal conditions; medium-sized tides typically offer the best access.
During fall, winter, and spring, when surf pours through, Surging-T can resemble a Class V rapid. That’s also what makes it so thrilling. When sea conditions permit, it’s worth taking your time to gradually paddle through one of the most impressive sea caves on the California coast. Sunlight shifts throughout the day, casting fleeting colors that illuminate barnacle-encrusted walls and a lichencolored ceiling.
Kayakers may be escorted by raucous California sea lions swimming through Surging-T. Just west lies a small sea lion rookery, home to bull sea lions and playful juveniles between one and two years old. It’s a perfect place for them to thermoregulate when not foraging along the Mordor-like cliffs on the southeastern fringe of Santa Cruz Island.
Guiding the Way
If you’re considering a trip to the sea caves of Santa Cruz and Anacapa Islands, begin with a guided tour. It’s always wise to go with an experienced guide your first time to better understand sea conditions and how the surf behaves against the weathered cliffs.
Channel Islands Adventure Company (www.islandkayaking. com, 805-884-9283) and Channel Islands Expeditions (www. explorechannelislands.com, 805-899-4925) offer a range of sea cave trips for all paddling skill levels. Boat transportation, gear, and expert guides are provided. Guests also learn about the history and ecology of one of the world’s most unique archipelagos.
Wildlife is an essential part of every sea cave excursion. Guides point out seabirds, pinnipeds, and other marine life that inhabit this rare marine-terrestrial ecosystem—where half of the national park lies underwater. A one-mile marine boundary surrounds each of the islands, helping preserve their biodiversity.
Because of the vibrant life both above and below the waterline, Channel Islands National Park has earned the nickname “the Galápagos Islands of the North.” Paddling into such a natural balance is part of every adventure. SLO LIFE
staff or reserve your unit online at
Keeping the beat
Where the Noodles Dance: Shake Shake Adds Sizzle to SLO’s Food Scene
BY JAIME LEWIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETE BILTOFT
I’d been hearing about Shake Shake Fresh Noodle for weeks before I finally made it there. By the time photographer Pete Biltoft and I arranged to meet at 11:15 a.m.—fifteen minutes before Shake Shake even opens—we discovered a half-dozen people already waiting outside the doors in the Creamery, just off Nipomo Street. Clearly, this place has developed quite a following.
The restaurant occupies a bright corner space with an open-air kitchen that puts the noodle-making process on full display. The aroma of fresh dough hits me just as I see the noodle puller working behind the counter—a master craftsman who stretches noodle dough between his hands like elastic bands. He makes it look effortless, the same way ballerinas make dancing en pointe appear easy. After pulling, he slaps the dough rhythmically against the countertop, then drops the fresh noodles into a large stainless-steel vessel of boiling water for just a few minutes before serving.
Pete and I order from the QR code menu, and our feast arrives with lightning speed: soup, dry noodles, dumplings, wontons, and a crisp-tender cucumber garlic salad. After just one bite of each, I know my go-to dish: the Chili Oil Flat Noodle with Beef Bone, featuring gloriously glutinous and chewy wide noodles draped in a delicate chili sauce. With the kitchen scissors provided on each table, our server, David, cuts the braised beef off the bone—it’s ridiculously tender after hours of slow cooking. The cucumber garlic chili salad offers a cool, crunchy counterpoint to the rich noodles, while the chili oil wontons and Braised Pork Belly Noodle (featuring round noodles with pork belly, bok choy, and what appears to be a tea egg) round out our indulgent lunch.
Later, I speak by phone with owner Aye Yin, whose husband, Zhiyuan Jiang, fell in love with San Luis Obispo during a visit from their home near San Jose. >>
“When he walked down the street, everybody was smiling at him,” Yin tells me. “People are very nice. So he said, ‘I would like to stay here and raise a family.’”
Coming from the Bay Area, where they operated another location with different partners, the couple was initially concerned about opening an authentic Chinese restaurant in a town without a major Asian market. But customer response has been overwhelmingly positive, Yin says.
As for inspiration, the menu represents what she calls “Chinese fusion,” drawing from different regions across China. For instance, the chili oil flat noodles hail from Xi’an, the ancient capital. This dish showcases thirteen different spices, ground and mixed before hot oil is poured over the noodles to release their aromatic complexity. The popular big bone noodles feature beef ribs and bones slowcooked for six hours with fifteen to twenty ingredients sealed in spice bags, creating a rich, sweet broth.
Both Yin and Jiang come by their culinary chops honestly. Yin hails from a restaurant family in Myanmar, while Jiang grew up with parents who made noodles and wonton wrappers for restaurants.
“We both kind of like the food industry,” she says with a laugh.
When I ask about Shake Shake’s name, Yin explains that making fresh noodles is like dancing.
“I thought we needed a word with action,” she says.
Anyone who’s seen the twisting, cascading, and bouncing of dough behind the counter at Shake Shake will agree that dance is an apt metaphor for what goes on there.
Initially, the workload was overwhelming.
“When we opened, me and my husband only had four to five hours of sleep because we needed to make wontons after we closed,” Yin recalls.
They’ve since streamlined operations, bringing in supplies from their Bay Area location and establishing relationships with distributors in San Francisco and Los Angeles.
The spice level has been carefully calibrated for local palates. While some Chinese customers request spicier options—Yin keeps spicy pickles on hand for them—most dishes aim for medium heat.
“I don’t want local customers to get too spicy and burn their tongue and give up on it,” she explains. Vivian and Ivan are committed to San Luis Obispo, drawn by the community spirit and quality of life.
“My husband really loves SLO,” she says. “He liked the weather and the pace is very comfortable here.”
The couple hopes that if the business succeeds, they can buy a house and settle down here permanently. In the meantime, they travel from the Bay Area once a week to check in on the restaurant and ensure the quality remains high.
With customers regularly telling Yin and Jiang that their food reminds them of authentic flavors from home—and people lining up before the doors even open—Shake Shake Fresh Noodle has obviously found its rhythm. For my part, I’m thankful for this delicious new addition to SLO’s culinary scene and look forward to many miles of fresh noodles to come.
SLO LIFE
tapping in, tuning out
Hyper-Local Beer Finds a Home in Avila
BY BRANT MYERS PHOTOGRAPY BY PETE BILTOFT
The sun is shining, the sand is hot, and I’m on my fourth trip to Avila Beach in the past two weeks. Like many of us, when visiting Avila, I usually vie for a parking spot closest to the sand, then proceed to post up on the beach until I’m sunburned or the cool evening breeze picks up.
However, this time I’m steering clear of the usual routine and heading just off the beaten path—gasp—a hundred feet down from the main boardwalk into a laid-back spot aptly named Locals Taproom.
Inside, I’m warmly greeted by the owners, bartenders, corporate leadership, custodians, maintenance crew, and marketing department—all rolled into two people. Molly Maguire shakes my hand and introduces me to Austin Hunstad, who is diligently prepping for opening behind the bar. This dynamic duo runs the whole operation and clearly takes pride in their creation.
Though Locals has only been open since January 2024, they’re no strangers to the space. Maguire managed the same bar for three years when it was Libertine Brewing’s satellite location. She poured beers and swapped stories with both locals and tourists, all while earning her master’s degree.
Hunstad, for his part, discovered his passion for craft beer under the tutelage of Lee Samways and Justin Amy at Humdinger Brewing in Arroyo Grande. He went on to deepen his knowledge with the brewing team at Liquid Gravity Brewing in San Luis Obispo. Between the two, they bring both frontand back-of-house experience to realize their vision of what a beer bar in Avila should be.
Walking into Locals, the first thing that strikes you is the intentional color scheme and bright decor. Maguire gestures to the iconic Endless Summer poster behind me and explains how they drew inspiration from the vibrant hues of the 1960s and ’70s. Small touches throughout reflect that theme, but the standout is a mural in the bathroom depicting a whimsical landscape filled with skeletons.
Each skeletal figure represents someone who supported them throughout their journey—engaging in signature activities like birdwatching, hiking, biking, or dog walking. While many regulars are now angling to earn a skeleton of their own on the wall, only the “originals” made it into the mural, a badge of honor within this tight-knit community.
Throughout our conversation, Maguire and Hunstad return often to their appreciation for the locals and regulars who keep the taproom buzzing. As residents of Avila themselves, they’re not just business owners; they’re part of the community and passionate about growing it. They regularly host both planned and impromptu events—wedding receptions, dog birthday parties, and personalized celebrations of all kinds—turning their bar into everyone’s living room for the evening.
The more we talk, the more obvious it becomes: this is not just a place with bartenders and bar stools. This is a shared social space—created with care, meant to foster connection.
So sure, head to Avila Beach. Snag that coveted parking spot close to the sand. But then, get up from your towel, stroll past Custom House, and walk into Locals Taproom. Pick an album, order a beer, and settle in. Live like a local for an afternoon—or an evening.
And while you’re there, raise your porcelain German stein and say cheers to the consummate hosts at Locals.
90 San Miguel St Avila Beach, CA 93424 localstaproomavila.com
Naturally, I had already scoped out the tap list on my way from the sidewalk to the barstool. A dozen beers caught my eye, and one thing stood out immediately: every single one was hyper-local. When asked about this, Maguire explains that the curation is deliberate.
If you can find a beer at the grocery store or a standard bar, it won’t be at Locals. In fact, they don’t serve any beer distributed through traditional channels. The idea is to highlight brews that are rare, unique, and inaccessible elsewhere—while building mutual support among small breweries. Their approach turns the taproom into both a discovery zone and a launchpad: bartenders suggest other local breweries to explore, and the cycle of support continues.
In essence, Locals serves local beer for locals—while happily entertaining visitors who want to drink like one.
Yet this is much more than a beer bar. Maguire and Hunstad have poured intention into every detail. One cabinet holds more than 550 vinyl records. They proudly proclaim that they only spin vinyl, adding another dimension to their curated space. Maguire grabs a tablet and pulls up a digitized vinyl catalog, organized by decade, so guests can browse and choose their own soundtrack for the visit.
SLO LIFE
BY DAN FREDMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY DESJARDINS
From Academia to Edna Valley
Clay and Frederika Thompson
Claiborne “clay” Thompson never set out to become a winemaker. After excelling in German at Princeton, he pursued graduate studies in linguistics and literature at the University of Michigan, eventually earning his Ph.D. from Harvard in 1969. His academic interests expanded to include Icelandic sagas, Norse mythology, and the oral traditions of Northern Europe. By the 1970s, he was chairing Michigan’s Department of Germanic Languages, overseeing everything from German and Scandinavian to Dutch literature.
“I started not to like my job,” Clay says. “I went from being a fairly popular teacher to feeling like I’d reached the end of my rope. As department head, I didn’t have enemies, but there weren’t a lot of nice people around. Academic politics are a saga unto themselves.”
Facing what he called a midlife crisis at forty, Clay had just started dating Frederika Churchill and was open to change. The two decided to take time off to visit her sister in Albuquerque, with a side trip to California. That detour would change everything.
They stopped at Firestone Vineyard, where they fell in love with the wine—and the West Coast weather. A visit to Edna Valley Vineyard followed, where they met winemaker Gary Mosby and assistant Bruno D’Alfonso. Over tastings and conversation, Clay asked a seemingly offhand question: “How do you get into this business?”
“I could tell the wheels were turning,” Frederika recalls. “The idea of moving to California to make wine started making sense.”
At the time, Edna Valley Vineyard was owned by Chalone, whose founder Dick Graff (also a Harvard graduate) hired Clay to work harvest. “One Harvard Ph.D. hired another,” Clay says. A few weeks
later, he proposed to Frederika—ice cream cone in hand—and the couple moved to San Luis Obispo in 1981. Clay thrived in the collaborative, hands-on culture of Central Coast winemaking.
“The better they are, the better we’d be,” he says of his peers. “Everybody helped everybody else.”
Clay quickly became part of a pioneering group of vintners: Don Talley (Talley Vineyards), Don Othman (Kynsi), Norm Goss (Chamisal), and vineyard owners like Andy McGregor and the Nivens. Equipment was loaned freely, advice exchanged, and camaraderie flowed.
In 1983, Clay and Frederika launched Claiborne & Churchill Winery in a small corner of Edna Valley. Their first production included three tons each of Gewürztraminer and Riesling, plus 200 cases of a field blend called Edelzwicker.
“We didn’t want to make the same wines I was making at Edna Valley,” Clay explains. “So, in keeping with Frederika’s and my background, we leaned into a Germanic influence.”
Their inspiration? A honeymoon hike along Alsace’s Route des Vins the summer before their first vintage. The region’s French-German cultural mashup, hearty cuisine, and crisp, aromatic wines made a lasting impression.
“In Alsace, some people still spoke a strange kind of German,” Clay laughs. “The food was French in structure but used German ingredients—lots of sauerkraut and sausage. You could eat enormous meals, hike them off, and the wines were fantastic.” >>
Early on, Clay wore every hat—winemaker, tasting room host, delivery driver—and juggled side jobs: working at a bookstore, teaching part-time at Cal Poly, and tutoring in Nipomo. He also represented Chalone wines along the Central Coast and consulted for other wineries, including Chamisal and Arthur Earl.
Eventually, the winery moved into a warehouse on Capitolio Way. “We were garagistes before there even was such a thing,” Clay jokes.
In the early 1990s, Clay and Frederika purchased six acres on Highway 227. By 1995, their permanent winery—designed by local architect Marilyn Miller Farmer—was complete. Built from straw bales coated in stucco, the structure is both energyefficient and earthquake resistant.
As the winery grew, mentorship became a cornerstone. One day, a young man named Nathan Carlson, then a tour guide at Laetitia, visited the tasting room. Clay was impressed by his tasting notes and curiosity and offered him a job as assistant winemaker.
That hire began a tradition. Nathan later recruited Coby Parker-Garcia, who became head winemaker when Nathan moved to Center of Effort. Coby brought in Zack Geers, who took the reins when Coby launched his own label, El Lugar. Each generation has preserved the Thompsons’ vision while innovating in both style and approach.
Now overseeing both viticulture and winemaking, Geers sources fruit from top vineyards including Spanish Springs, Bien Nacido, and Ventana in Monterey County.
“I’m looking for balance,” he says. “Picking early, at peak flavor, so I don’t need to adjust anything. I’m excited about some new releases like our Carbonic Pinot Noir and Pinot Noir Blanc.”
Though semi-retired, Clay and Frederika remain active at the winery. Reflecting on the evolving wine scene, Clay notes, “There used to be five of us who’d sit around a table tasting each other’s wines. Now there are more wineries, more corporate players, and more traffic down 227. But the restaurant scene is better, people want culture, and they appreciate good wine.”
The tasting room remains a hub of activity. “We’re drawing more locals now,” he says. “On Friday afternoons we have music and food trucks. About 80 percent of our sales are direct-to-consumer, through the tasting room and wine club. We offer six different Pinots—people are always eager for something new.”
In a region transformed by time, Claiborne & Churchill stands as a testament to passion, community, and the joy of unexpected journeys.
“I resent getting old,” Clay says, “but I wouldn’t change a thing.”
As a single-varietal wine, Gewurztraminer is sort of like cilantro – you either love it immediately and are compelled to seek it out, or you instantaneously are repelled by its flavors and aromas and dislike it with a vengeance appropriate to Rambo or Don Corleone. I’m in the “love it” category, and Claiborne & Churchill’s version is about as good as it gets this side of Alsace. Made from grapes grown at Loma del Rio in Monterey County, it’s picked in early October and tankfermented to retain all of the crisp, spicy harvest characteristics. This translates through to the finished wine in really good ways. Zack Geers’ mantra on this is to bottle early for a fast release in April. Ripe and crisp with lychees and peppers, rose petals and orange creamsicle, long, long finish that pulls it all together. No wine anywhere pairs as well with spicy Thai, Szechuan, or Indian cuisines.
So maybe you’re the shy sort and are reticent to jump right into full-on Gewurztraminer. If so, the Cuvée Fredericka is just the thing to ease you into the wild side of the wine world. This wine is a blend of barrel fermented Chardonnay (60%) and 20% each of Gewurztraminer and Riesling. The barrels used are neutral, and the wine is smooth and balanced. It’s an elegant bridge between the spicy/edgy Alsace varieties and richer Central Coast Chardonnay. It’s exotic but not too exotic. Fredericka mentioned to me that she’s seen more openness to (and awareness of) unusual varieties recently in the tasting room. Maybe it’s time for you to join that “unusual variety” club?
People often ask “how long does this wine need to age to hit its peak?” With this wine, you could drink it on your way home and it’ll be great, or you could stash it in the cellar for a couple of years and it’ll still be great. This is made from grapes grown in three different vineyards in the Edna Valley. Plums, blueberries, strawberries, all the good stuff, ably supported by the kind of acidity that makes Zack’s heart sing. It’s intended for early enjoyment, so don’t even think of cellaring it for your great-grandchildren to use to toast your memory.
Runestone is a blend of the best eight barrels in the cellar. It’s Claiborne & Churchill’s über-Pinot Noir, with flavors of berries, beet, rhubarb, and a little more French oak (like 29%) than their other wines, serving to add to the luxurious texture of this wine. Despite the additional age, it’s tasting young, spicy, and fresh, with acidity to balance out its subtle tannic structure, making it appropriate for additional cellar time or to accompany a grilled T-bone this weekend. This is the Claiborne & Churchill wine you want if you’re intent on getting your great-grandchildren’s attention down the road (or the attention of the other members of your golf foursome after the next hard-fought round).
Culture Events &
Park Palooza
Park Palooza returns to Dairy Creek Golf Course for a vibrant, familyfriendly celebration of community, music, movement, and giving back. is year’s event will bene t two Central Coast nonpro ts: the SLO Noor Foundation, which provides free medical care for uninsured adults, and the Sur ng for Hope Foundation, which supports cancer wellness through the healing power of sur ng.. August 2 // slocal.com
the music man
Coastal performing Arts Foundation’s
Players West is proud to bring Meredith Willson’s “ e Music Man” to the Central Coast this summer! “ e Music Man” is a heartwarming and humorous musical about a traveling con man, who poses as a music instructor in the small town of River City, Iowa. is will be running at the Clark Center for the Performing Arts. August 7 -10 // clarkcenter.org
The Merry Wives of Windsor Shakespeare’s comedy e Merry Wives of Windsor is performed under the stars at Filipponi Ranch as part of the Central Coast Shakespeare Festival, featuring a clever Falsta , two witty wives, and a cascade of hilarious pranks..
June 18 - August 10 // centralcoastshakespeare.org
Colors of conservation
e Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County hosted the Colors of Conservation Art Show at the historic Octagon Barn Center, showcasing plein air paintings by San Luis Outdoor Painters for the Environment (SLOPE) that celebrate the region’s conserved open spaces. e event o ered wine, bites, artist demos, guided barn tours, and the opportunity to purchase artwork—part of each sale bene ted land conservation e orts across SLO County. August 8-9 // octagonbarn.org
Paso Winemakers Cook Off
Sample premium wines and gourmet dishes crafted by top winemakers from the Paso Robles Appellation, all while enjoying live music in a lively setting. Proceeds from the event support scholarships for local high school seniors, making it a memorable evening for a great cause.
August 9 // winemakerscooko .com
Culture Events &
Antique fair
Join us at the SLO Public Market for a lively day lled with history, music, and one-of-a-kind nds. Explore vintage clothing and classic vinyl, enjoy live music performances, and capture the moment with authentic tintype photography. It’s a celebration of timeless style, artistic expression, and local culture—all in one vibrant setting.
August 9 // slopublicmarket.com
art after dark
Art After Dark is a free, self-guided art walk held on the rst Friday of every month in downtown San Luis Obispo, where local galleries, businesses, and organizations come alive with visual art, live music, performances, and community gatherings celebrating local creativity.
September 5 // slocountyarts.org
art in the park
e Morro Bay Art Association hosts free Art in the Park Festivals each year. With over 100 vendors, the event features a wide variety of art, crafts, and handmade goods. Proceeds support children’s art classes, scholarships, and other creative programs throughout the year. August 30 - September 1 // morrobayartinthepark.com
Sheriff’s Family Day
Held annually since 1996 at the Madonna Inn Meadows, Sheri ’s Family Day o ers a free, family-friendly chance to meet local law enforcement, explore emergency vehicles and demos, enjoy giveaways, and learn how the Sheri ’s O ce helps keep San Luis Obispo County safe.
September 13 // safslo.org
29th Creston Classic
e Creston Classic Rodeo is a beloved community event in Creston, California, featuring traditional rodeo events like barrel racing, team roping, and mutton busting. Run entirely by volunteers, the rodeo raises funds for local projects like the community center and free public pool.
September 13 -14 // crestonclassicrodeo.org
Specializing
FIRST HOME GAME
Cal Poly’s rst home football game in 2025 is on September 13th at 5 p.m. against Western Oregon. is game will be played at Mustang Memorial Field at Alex G. Spanos Stadium. It will also be the debut of the new Cal Poly Partners Plaza. September 13 // gopoly.com
still frothy surf festival
Join us for a weekend of surf, sun, and fun at the Still Frothy Surf Festival in Pismo Beach. is free, family-friendly event features exciting competitions, community spirit, and activities for all ages. September 27 // experiencepismobeach.com
Annual Creeks to Coast Cleanup
For 20 years, our community has come together to protect local watersheds, restore natural beauty, and make a lasting environmental impact. Join ECOSLO and the California Coastal Commission for the 20th Annual Countywide Creeks to Coast Cleanup and help make this our most powerful e ort yet. September 20 // coastal.ca.gov
The butterfly ball
e Central Coast State Parks Association invites you to the 6th Annual Butter y Ball, an evening of music, food, drink, and community in support of San Luis Obispo’s ten state parks. is year’s theme, Moonlit Wings and Wild ings, celebrates the rich nighttime ecosystems of our parks, with proceeds funding vital education, interpretation, and volunteer programs. September 27 // octagonbarn.org
