New Times, April 30, 2026

CHLOË HODGE

rest

Classifieds 31

Brezsny’s Astrology 39

Editor’s note

The years-long ask to return a middle school to the rural area near the California Valley and save students hours of commuting time continues in the Atascadero Unified School District. A lawsuit filed against the district aims to compel the Carrisa Plains school to once again include sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. The school district contends that its budget doesn’t have any wiggle room but said it’s open to trying to figure out a better option for students. Staff Writer Chloë Hodge chats with parents about what they’re hoping for [8].

In addition, read about New California State’s demand for 2024 and 2025 SLO County election ballots [9]; an art show focused on the things that make people happy [22]; and a new steakhouse bar in

SLO County DA warns South County group about breaking election law

Money problems hang over San Luis Obispo County’s 4th District Supervisor race that’s hurtling toward a June 2 showdown between incumbent Supervisor Jimmy Paulding and Oceano business owner Adam Verdin.

Days after campaign finance disclosure forms revealed that Verdin returned controversial donations earmarked for the November general election to their respective donors, certain contributions to Paulding’s campaign are now under District Attorney scrutiny.

“Based on the filings presently available, South County Coalition appears to have reached the point at which it should immediately amend its Statement of Organization to reflect primarily formed committee status for support of Jimmy Paulding in the District 4 supervisor election,” SLO County DA Dan Dow wrote to South County Coalition Treasurer Dorothy Hines on April 22.

Dow alleged that the South County Coalition misclassified its committee and campaign reporting obligations as it was formed as a general purpose committee advocating for candidates in southern SLO County.

The coalition’s original campaign finance form shows that it spent more than $13,000 from Jan. 1 to April 18 for voter lists, printing, phone calls, graphic design, and professional services to support Paulding’s supervisor campaign.

The coalition also received contributions from SLO resident Ray Mattison and SLO attorney Don Ernst of Ernst Law Group amounting to $18,000 and $22,000, respectively, according to the campaign finance form.

“The close timing of those substantial contributions and the committee’s campaign spending in support of Mr. Paulding strongly suggests that the committee’s actual purpose and recent activity are directed toward supporting a single identified candidate rather than generally supporting multiple South County candidates,” Dow’s letter read.

“California law does not permit a committee to retain

‘general purpose committee’ status when, in substance, it exists to support a single identified candidate in a single election.”

Paulding told New Times he isn’t affiliated with South County Coalition and isn’t involved in its activities in any way.

“By law, my campaign maintains total independence from outside groups participating in the District 4 race,” he said. “I am incredibly proud of the grassroots, people-powered support behind our campaign, and I urge every South County resident to make their voice heard and get out to vote by June 2.”

Coalition Treasurer Hines said the group responded to Dow’s warning letter by filing amended forms and reports reflecting new contributions and expenses.

“Our collective reporting provides support for our status as a general purpose committee,” she said. “Our committee is about one month into its existence, and it was formed to support multiple candidates for both the 2026 primary and general elections, and beyond.”

But the group’s response didn’t alleviate the issue

Paso school board advances possible November bond measure

Facing aging campuses and rising construction costs, the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District board of trustees moved a potential $180 million general obligation bond one step closer to the November ballot.

The dollar amount presented by district staff on April 28 reflects an early estimate of total project costs outlined in a developing facilities master plan, which includes modernization of aging classrooms, infrastructure repairs, and expansion of career technical education facilities at Paso Robles and Liberty high schools.

Dale Scott, a consultant for the district, presented polling results showing that 51 percent of likely voters support a bond measure—below the 55

percent supermajority required. That support rose to 56 percent after respondents heard information about its use for classroom upgrades and career technical education programs and taxpayer oversight.

“I would say that this is a bond election that would take work,” Scott said, cautioning that the district would need a strong public education campaign to succeed.

General obligation bonds are essentially loans that are repaid by a tax on all property within the district’s boundaries, Assistant Superintendent Brad Pawlowski explained during the meeting. Taxes to repay general obligation bonds start when bonds are issued—not upon passage by the voters.

Pawlowski told the board that construction costs and access to state matching funds could worsen if the district waits.

“If we wait two more years, we can only assume

for Dow. His April 28 response to Hines stated that the DA’s Office is now even more concerned that the group is using a California political committee to receive contributions and spend on local, state, and federal election activity.

The coalition’s amended campaign finance form shows similar kinds of service support for three other Democratic Party candidates—30th District Assemblymember Dawn Addis, 37th District Assemblymember Gregg Hart, and 24th District Rep. Salud Carbajal, who’s a candidate in a federal congressional race.

Rules around elections in California are only for state and local races, not federal campaigns. They’re enforced by the Fair Political Practices Commission, the Attorney General, and district attorneys around the state. Rules for federal races are enforced by the Federal Election Commission.

“The use of a single California committee to receive contributions and then pay for communications allocated in part to a federal candidate raises a significant issue as to whether federal election activity is being financed through an account and reporting structure not lawfully organized for that purpose,” Dow wrote.

The DA’s letter informed the group that violations of the California Political Reform Act could result in a misdemeanor charge, with the law penalizing people up to $5,000 per violation.

South County Coalition has until 5 p.m. on May 3 to preserve all records of financial activity; identify every financial activity, communication, and inkind service that benefited Carbajal and possibly other federal candidates; determine whether any Federal Election Commission filings were required or made; review whether funds received through a state committee were used in any way to support federal electoral activity; and determine whether its California filings remain accurate and complete.

Dow’s letter was also copied to Paulding and Verdin. Verdin told New Times he didn’t complain to Dow about the issue, but his campaign had widely mailed a news release on April 17 alleging “dark money” was being concealed in the 4th District race.

The news release pointed to missing information in South County Coalition’s filings and the timing of making changes to its organization statement.

“I would much prefer that they, the organization, that PAC, just correct themselves and follow the law,” Verdin said. “I thought that if we just make it public, that that would just make them correct it. If they didn’t correct it, then you do the next steps, right?” ∆

—Bulbul Rajagopal

the cost of those projects are going to escalate by 10 percent per year,” Pawlowski told the board.

Polling presented at the meeting suggested voters responded most favorably to projects tied to workforce preparation, including programs in aerospace, health care, and skilled trades. Renovating science labs and repairing aging infrastructure also drew support.

Athletic facilities proved more complicated. One version of a ballot question that included athletic upgrades saw support fall from 50 to 45 percent before voters were given more information.

More than 70 percent of respondents said they were more likely to support a bond if funds would not be used for administrator salaries and if spending were subject to independent audits and public disclosure.

After hearing the presentation and data, several

board members questioned whether voter support was strong enough.

“I don’t like the idea of pushing something that’s going to cost us tens of thousands or potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars based off these numbers,” Trustee Kenney Enney told Pawlowski. “If it had been a 60 percent, … and there was support for it, you know, it’d be a no-brainer. But I right now it’s 50/50.”

Enney also said the district needs a clearer and narrower project list before asking voters for support.

“Part of my issue with this whole thing is we’re pushing this bond measure, but we really haven’t seen the master facility plan yet,” he said.

Board President Joel Peterson noted that the April 28 discussion was only an informal “thumbs up” to direct staff to prepare a resolution, not an endorsement of the bond.

“It’s just telling staff to spend the effort to develop the resolution and bring that forward,” he said.

The board directed staff to return May 12 with a draft resolution, election cost estimates, and a more detailed facilities project list.

A final decision on whether to place the measure before voters could come May 26, ahead of the June filing deadline for the November ballot.

—Chloë Hodge

State Supreme Court curbs Coastal Commission’s block of Los Osos development permit

The California Supreme Court flexed its power over the California Coastal Commission, unanimously ruling that the commission unlawfully overrode a Los Osos building permit approved by San Luis Obispo County.

“Shear’s proposed development is for one of the principal permitted uses of the site. The commission has no appellate jurisdiction over Shear’s permit application,” Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero’s April 23 ruling opinion read.

The move caps off a long saga beginning in 2003 when Shear Development Company bought eight lots in a residential neighborhood in Los Osos. Shear graded the lots and installed utilities in preparation. In 2004, the county authorized the development company to build in two phases.

After Shear built the first four homes, it went back before the county in 2017 to gain

approval to complete three more. The Board of Supervisors considered the plans under the local coastal plan and granted the company a coastal development permit—after a county hearing officer rejected the application because the homes weren’t eligible to connect to the Los Osos wastewater treatment plant, and they were located where new septic systems were prohibited.

In 2019, two Coastal Commission members appealed the board’s decision to the commission, which claimed enforcement power because the project was in an Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area. It denied the permit in 2020.

“The commission also alleged that it could appeal any permit in a zoning area that had more than one principally permitted use—a claim that would make every single project in the county’s coastal zone appealable to the CCC,” Pacific Legal Foundation, which represents Shear Development, said in a press release.

Following a trial court’s denial of Shear’s petition and an appeal court’s affirmation of the trial court’s judgement, the California Supreme Court stepped in. The court ruled that the Coastal Commission relied on an incorrect interpretation of the local coastal plan to claim jurisdiction.

The state Supreme Court stressed that courts must independently interpret the law rather than automatically deferring to the Coastal Commission, especially when local governments and the commission disagree.

It added that the proposed project isn’t in the Los Osos Dune Sands Habitat, and that under the Coastal Act, local governments have primary authority over coastal development permits. The commission can only intervene in specific and limited situations such as if an area lacks a certified local coastal plan or if it’s impacted by major public works and energy projects.

“Today’s decision is a win for every property owner along California’s coast. The Coastal Commission cannot simply decide to reinterpret legislation based on its own whims. Its authority has limits, and today the court enforced them unanimously,” Pacific Legal Foundation attorney Jeremy Talcott said in a press release.

—Bulbul Rajagopal

Study finds offshore wind facility not feasible in Morro Bay

Developing an offshore wind operations and maintenance (O&M) facility in Morro Bay’s harbor would amount to “significant regulatory, environmental, and social

impacts,” according to a feasibility study presented to the City Council on April 28.

The study, prepared by Mott MacDonald and Rincon Consultants and funded through a $1 million San Luis Obispo County allocation to study offshore wind, evaluated whether Morro Bay could support long-term offshore wind maintenance operations tied to lease areas roughly 20 miles offshore.

“The study serves as an informational resource … and is intended to help inform the city and the public in the event that an OSW [offshore wind] development proposal is submitted in the future,” an April 14 city staff report stated. It added that Morro Bay “has not received any proposals from OSW developers and has not engaged in recent discussions with them regarding potential port facilities.”

Community Development Director Airlin Singewald said any future project would trigger a full local review process, including zoning changes, discretionary approvals, and compliance with voterapproved measures.

“The city would maintain significant land use local control over development of an O&M facility,” the staff report stated, noting that state or federal permitting would not override local ballot restrictions.

Despite the report’s cautionary framing, consultants outlined what offshore wind infrastructure could theoretically require. One scenario would involve rebuilding the northern T-pier to accommodate service operation vessels up to 300 feet long, along with crew transfer vessels. Other options included expanded navigation channels, new upland industrial staging areas, and substantial dredging.

Mott MacDonald engineer Charlie Poole said even minimal buildouts would come with major tradeoffs.

According to the study, dredging needs could exceed 1 million cubic yards, while harbor constraints such as shoaling, eelgrass beds, and limited turning basin space would significantly complicate development. Rincon Consultants’ Derek Lerma said Morro Bay’s estuary protections and sensitive coastal habitats would require layered state and federal environmental review.

The staff report concluded that even the most flexible options “would face significant regulatory, environmental, and community acceptance challenges, and may ultimately prove infeasible for Morro Bay.”

Still, much of the public discussion

centered not on feasibility, but on whether offshore wind development should be considered at all.

The meeting came one day after the U.S. Department of the Interior announced it would cancel offshore wind leases for two projects, including a lease held by Golden State Wind off Morro Bay, offering developers reimbursement.

In an April 28 press release, U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal called the cancellation “a staggering waste of taxpayer dollars” and said the decision reflected “a bizarre personal vendetta against wind energy [by the Trump administration],” adding that he would “continue to fight for the Central Coast’s right to build a greener economy.”

At the council meeting, however, speakers largely urged the city to step away from any future involvement in offshore wind planning.

“I would like to respectfully ask that the council firmly and clearly excuse us from the table and say, ‘No, thank you,’” said Morro Bay resident Judy Setting during public comment. “We do not want to host a maintenance port for offshore wind turbines ever.” She and others argued that past industrial uses have already burdened the coastal community, and that further development could threaten tourism, wildlife, and the estuary.

Morro Bay resident Joe Solano raised concerns about dredging impacts, shallow navigation channels, and what would happen to dredge material, calling it “shortsighted.”

Other speakers raised concerns about eelgrass beds, vessel traffic, and emergency response capacity. Several argued that industrial-scale infrastructure would fundamentally alter the harbor’s character.

Nicole Dorfman, a REACT Alliance board member, thanked the consultants for what she called an honest assessment.

“I’m very glad for this report,” she said. “It really is not that feasible here.”

City Council members didn’t take action on the study, reiterating that it wasn’t tied to any current proposal and doesn’t authorize development. Instead, staff emphasized that any future application would require extensive public engagement and full environmental review.

“Morro Bay has a national estuary. … I’m unwilling to risk losing that for an industry that’s uncertain what its future looks like,” Mayor Carla Wixom said. ∆

—Chloë Hodge

Long haul

Rural

At 5:20 a.m., Amanda Whitner Ruiz wakes her 13-year-old daughter, Lily, to catch a bus to Atascadero Middle School. By 6:20 a.m., Lily is on the bus for a nearly 50-mile ride into town. She won’t return until almost 5 p.m.

“It’s a lot,” Ruiz said. “It’s a lot for my daughter. It’s a lot for us.”

For rural families in Carrisa Plains and the California Valley, where the local school once served students in kindergarten through eighth grade, the loss of middle school has transformed education into a daily endurance test—one measured in dark mornings, long bus rides, and hours lost at home.

Since Atascadero Unified School District removed seventh and eighth grade from Carrisa Plains Elementary School in 2008, children from one of the county’s most remote communities have spent hours commuting.

Parents told New Times that the arrangement strains family life, exhausts children, and erodes the close-knit rural spirit.

“My daughter is going to be 10 when she heads into town for middle school,” said Adriane Twisselman, whose fifth grader, McKinley, will enter sixth grade this fall. “They’re getting up in the dark, and they’re getting home in the dark. That’s no quality of life for a developing child.”

Twisselman has spent the past year advocating for alternatives, from restoring middle school grades at Carrisa Plains to piloting supervised virtual learning on campus. Her husband attended the school through eighth grade.

“I know it’s been done before,” she said. “We have two modular classrooms, … those are definitely available for middle school teaching.”

The daily realities weigh heavy. Her daughter gets carsick, she said, and the thought of being an hour away in an emergency is unsettling.

“If your kid doesn’t feel good and you have to come pick them up, you’re an hour away,” Twisselman said.

For Ruiz, the burden is measured in minutes. She estimates she spends 80 minutes a day shuffling her children to bus stops and school because she has children at both the elementary school and the middle school.

“I am running four times a day from my house just to the school in Carissa Plains,” she explained. “There’s been big issues with communication with the Atascadero school district or bus barn, not communicating with us when the bus is going to be late, so we’ll all show up to pick kids up. We’ll all be waiting at the bus, and then there’s no bus for an hour and a half, two hours later.”

Ruiz said Lily sometimes misses school because she is simply too tired or emotionally exhausted.

“That’s not fair that my daughter isn’t getting her education because she’s exhausted when there’s a perfectly good school out here,” she said.

Her younger daughter will also start taking the 50-mile bus ride next year.

Pedro Rios, a father of five whose son, Sebastian, is finishing eighth grade after two years of commuting, said his family has managed through careful coordination, help from neighbors, and a fortunate shift in his work schedule.

“It poses a challenge,” Rios said. “Nothing impossible, but we have to get creative.”

He now drives Sebastian to the bus before heading to his job as a teacher at Avenal State Prison. Before that, neighbors helped get Sebastian to the bus.

Without those circumstances, he said, the burden would have fallen on his wife to wake all three younger children before dawn for one child’s commute.

“You can imagine the kind of scenario,” he said.

Rios said Sebastian’s schedule leaves little room for extracurricular activities beyond homework, chores, and sleep during dark winter months.

“If we had the classes at the Plains, it would make it much better for [students],” he said. “It would give them extra hours to sleep. It would give them extra hours to do other things that, you know, kids their age want to do.”

Atascadero Unified School District

Superintendent Tom Bennett told New Times that the removal of middle school grades at Carrisa Plains is the result of decisions made years ago under financial strain.

In 2008, the school board unanimously voted to reconfigure Carrisa Plains Elementary after an April 15, 2006, meeting with community members and amid the recessionera budget crisis, Bennett explained in an email to New Times. The board considered declining enrollment, the difficulty of attracting teachers to a remote school, and the costs of operating a small rural campus before shifting seventhand eighth-graders to Atascadero Junior High, now Atascadero Middle School, or the Fine Arts Academy.

In 2012, Bennett said, the district adopted a middle school model districtwide, moving sixth grade from all elementary schools— including Carrisa Plains—to the newly built Atascadero Middle School.

Bennett said those decisions were made with students’ needs and the district’s budget circumstances in mind.

“Financial realities of running a small school, student enrollment, attracting experienced teachers, and the needs of students” all factored into the decision, he said.

Some Carrisa families, however, told New Times that the district’s rationale has never fully answered why a rural community an hour from town should be treated the same

as schools much closer to district campuses.

That question landed the district in court.

Former Carrisa Plains student Gregory Nelson—who graduated in 1988—filed a lawsuit in August against Atascadero Unified, seeking to restore sixth-througheighth-grade education at the campus and challenging whether decisions affecting rural students were made through lawful and transparent processes.

“Restoring access to sixth-through-eighthgrade education at Carrisa Plains Elementary School is my primary goal,” Nelson told New Times in an email. “This is not just about when the change occurred—it is about the ongoing impact on rural families.”

Nelson argues that the issue reaches beyond school configuration and into equity for rural communities.

“Requiring sixth-through-eighth-grade students to be bused out of a remote community, that’s usually an hour drive for a regular car, affects daily family life,” Nelson told New Times. “This includes long travel times for some kids as young as 11 years old, limited participation in after-school activities, and reduced connection to the local school and community.”

The lawsuit has divided opinion among parents.

Some, like Ruiz, see it as a necessary push for accountability. Others, including Twisselman and Rios, say they share many of the concerns raised in the lawsuit but worry that litigation has stalled collaborative solutions, including a proposed online pilot program for middle schoolers at Carrisa Plains that the district ultimately did not pursue.

Bennett said the district decided not to move forward with the pilot after reviewing legal considerations, community interest, educational value, and long-term sustainability.

“We determined that it was not the right time to advance the pilot,” he said. “We remain committed to exploring innovative and effective ways to meet the diverse needs of our students and will continue to evaluate future opportunities that align with both community interest and long-term sustainability.”

The next lawsuit hearing is set for May 16 at the San Luis Obispo Superior Court. ∆

Reach Staff Writer Chloë Hodge at chodge@ newtimesslo.com.

Records root-out

Preston added that three counties agreed to their demands but said investigations are underway and he had promised he wouldn’t name those counties.

San Luis Obispo County rebuffed demands from a secessionist group that wants all county clerk-recorder’s offices and sheriffs in California to retain and investigate records related to the 2024 general election and the Proposition 50 special election.

“This is a unique request, as I have not received anything similar from this group or others during my time in office,” SLO County Clerk-Recorder Elaina Cano said.

In a March 23 letter, New California State Movement founder Robert Paul Preston wrote to Cano and SLO County Sheriff Ian Parkinson that members of his organization gave him “confidential ‘whistleblower’ information” about alleged “‘voting irregularities’” in the two elections in the area.

“We request the investigation of those alleged irregularities at any level be investigated by the proper sworn law enforcement officers who will then issue a public report that the process, procedures, and vote tallies were either accurate or not accurate,” Preston wrote.

New California State wants to break off from the existing state, leaving behind the most densely populated areas like Los Angeles, Sacramento, Alameda, and Santa Clara counties. According to the group’s website, those counties’ large urban areas throw off the rural population density of its desired state.

Preston told New Times that his group is neutral on party affiliation even though

many members do associate themselves with certain parties and ideologies.

New California State isn’t a stranger to SLO County. The group’s local chair, Linda Quinlan, publicly criticized Public Health Director Penny Borenstein and her 2023 mandate ordering health care workers to get updated COVID-19 and influenza vaccines.

In 2021, the group served former County Clerk-Recorder Tommy Gong numerous “declarations of grievance” about the 2020 presidential election, which the local Republican Party also questioned Gong about.

The inspiration behind the letters?

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco’s seizure of hundreds of thousands of ballots from the Proposition 50 election to investigate potential voter fraud.

Bianco’s office was in contact with a citizens group that claimed 46,000 more ballots were certified than cast. Riverside County Superior Court Judge Jay Kiel–endorsed by Bianco when the judge ran for the bench—signed the search warrants, allowing the sheriff to take 650,000 ballots.

Following Attorney General Rob Bonta’s petition to stop the investigation, the

‘Importantly, the request did not include any specific evidence or allegations. At this time, there has been no release of voter records, and no action has been taken outside established legal processes.’

—Elaina Cano, SLO County clerk-recorder

“We would definitely want to see reconciliation between the secretary of state’s numbers and what they certified versus the numbers that were certified in San Luis Obispo,” he said. “Citizens need to have answers, and the government’s supposed to give us those answers, not stonewall us.”

The group’s investigation request of SLO County Sheriff Parkinson worries many locals. Concerns about the letter being used as a legal basis to obtain warrants to seize voter records prompted Cano to release a video addressing misinformation.

“Importantly, the request did not include any specific evidence or allegations,” Cano said in the April 6 video. “At this time, there has been no release of voter records, and no action has been taken outside established legal processes.”

She added that state and federal regulations govern access to sensitive information. The county clerk-recorder said her team coordinates with the Secretary of State’s Office and abides by election law.

Cano told New Times that all paper materials are eventually shredded at a county warehouse, while electronic purging happens at her office—making room for upcoming elections.

Preston said the group doesn’t endorse political candidates. Membership has fluctuated between 50,000 and 200,000 depending on the number of people moving out of California, Preston said. He declined to mention how many New California State members are from SLO County.

A representative living in each of the 58 counties hand-delivered copies of the group’s demand letter to their respective county clerk-recorder’s and sheriff’s offices.

California Supreme Court stepped in to review the legal pushback and ordered Bianco to pause.

Bianco is one of the Republican candidates gunning for the California gubernatorial seat. He’s endorsed by SLO County Sheriff Ian Parkinson and almost every other sheriff in the state. Bianco also won the backing of three district attorneys, including that of SLO County DA Dan Dow.

“Chad Bianco gave everybody probable cause when he found the discrepancy and he started counting the ballots,” New California State’s Preston said. “Our attorney [Robert Thomas] is a former prosecutor, he knows how this works. He recommended to me, as my attorney, that we should send out these letters, to tell the sheriffs and everybody to hold onto these ballots and not destroy them.”

United States Code 20701 requires election offices to retain and preserve all records and documents related to presidential primary and general elections for 22 months. Documents for statewide special elections must be retained for six months.

The 22-month retention window for the 2024 general election closes on Sept. 5, 2026. The preservation period for the Proposition 50 election will end on May 4, 2026. California Elections Code also dictates that all rosters and voter lists can be preserved until five years after the date of an election, after which they can be expunged.

New California State wants all county clerk-recorders not to destroy records of the two elections. Its letter asked clerk-recorders and sheriffs to turn over actual ballots, all paper tabulations and results, and records of “non-county employees who had supervised or unsupervised access to any voting machine from the day before receipt of any ballots to the day after the receipt of the last ballot in the 2024 election.”

Preston’s letter also asked for all communications with the California Secretary of State’s Office about the two elections.

Secretary of State Shirley Weber issued a memo on April 10 in response to questions about the retention of election documents. She wrote that New California State’s demands don’t provide any legal basis to preserve or unseal election records beyond what’s authorized by state or federal law.

“Further, the demands do not provide any statutory authority or basis for indefinite records preservation or any investigative action,” Weber wrote. “Likewise, demands or requests to retain a specified list of documents cannot be construed as a Public Records Act request, which may otherwise necessitate a required response asserting privileges, exemptions, or otherwise.”

SLO County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tony Cipolla told New Times that the sheriff didn’t receive evidence indicating a crime was committed related to the 2024 or 2025 elections in the region.

“If credible information or evidence of a potential criminal violation is presented, the Sheriff’s Office would review it to determine whether it falls within our jurisdiction,” Cipolla said. “Depending on the nature of the allegation, cases involving election-related matters may also be reviewed or investigated by the District Attorney’s Office, including its Public Integrity Unit.”

The Santa Barbara County Elections Division and Sheriff’s Office referred to the secretary of state’s memo when New Times reached out with questions, according to county spokesperson Kelsey Buttitta and Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Raquel Zick.

Now, New California State is deliberating its next course of action toward counties that didn’t agree to the demands in its letter.

“We are ready, willing, and able to take what legal action necessary to make sure that the public [gets] … the answers,” Preston said. ∆

COMPLETE TESTING & REPAIR

BY KATY CLARK

Sustainable in practice

When she was little, Rebecca Biskaduros spent her days in the woods of Lancaster, Massachusetts, playing by the river and building forts.

“Just as a young child, I loved to be out in nature and getting dirty and climbing trees,” Biskaduros said. “I was never the little girl with the dress on; I was very much out with all the boys playing in the woods and whatnot or by myself.”

Biskaduros never let go of that passion for nature, channeling it into her store Sea + Green. Her sculptures in the store are embedded with crystals, fossils, stones and shells, combining her love for art and nature.

Sea + Green—which sells a collection of handmade goods, antique and vintage homeware, books, and plants—and Lilija, a clothing shop, share the same space in the Mission Mall on Higuera. The storefront opened in the middle of February, after Sea + Green moved from Cambria.

“Our store, we like to say that we are rooted in nature and inspired by the sea,” Biskaduros said. “It’s hard to find something plastic in here, to be honest.”

Biskaduros has a background in environmental studies and a natural curiosity about the environment. Working in San Diego in green building, she learned how to do things totally out of her comfort zone.

“It just made me realize how passionate I am still about environmental issues and doing something good for the world,” she said.

She moved back to the East Coast and eventually started Sea + Green in the small town of Bay Head, New Jersey, in 2007.

In 2020, she felt a pull to return to the West Coast, inspired by a work trip she took to San Luis Obispo.

“When I did take that business trip, I was like, ‘Whoa, I can’t believe there’s a place that looks like Vermont meets the ocean,’” Biskaduros said. “Rolling hills and cows and oceanfront and it’s not all developed. It felt kind of like ’70s California to me.”

Two years later, Indra Dunis, owner of Lilija, moved to Los Osos from Amsterdam, where she became close friends with Biskaduros. They met through their children’s school, the Central Coast Waldorf School, and decided to share a collaborative space for both their businesses.

On Dunis’ side of the store, she sells

vintage clothes and clothing made by independent designers. She started small, selling clothes off a consignment rack inside Sea + Green in Cambria. She took on the name Lilija in November 2025 and now occupies a third of the space in the new store. Dunis wants to carry more art, books, and records in the store.

“Naturally, I think it’s going to evolve into that,” she said.

Both Biskaduros and Dunis share a passion for sustainability and environmentally friendly business practices.

In her childhood, Dunis remembers thrifting with her mom, who “was kind of a hippie.”

“I basically dressed myself through high school by thrifting. There’s always so many cool and unique finds that you can’t find in a regular store,” Dunis said.

“I like the idea of having something really special that not everybody has.” Her fashion is inspired by items that are “unique and funky.”

“I really have an eclectic style where I grab bits from different era. I love the ’70s. I love a lot of the bold prints of the ’60s. I look a lot at what people have worn in the past and then grab ideas from them, like musicians from the ’60s and ’70s combined with musicians from the ’80s and then looking at European fashion.”

While she loves fashion, she does not like how the industry has become “environmentally destructive.”

“I feel like any business I have, I want it to be something that has a positive effect on our community. I want it to be something that is promoting sustainability and also supporting other designers that are doing great things,” Dunis said.

This is not her first time running a clothing store. In Madison, Wisconsin, Dunis and her husband ran a vintage clothing store before their band, Peaking Lights, took off.

“Music was always that natural, stable expression that I had in my life,” Dunis said. The duo moved from Amsterdam in 2022 due to the changing music landscape after the pandemic. In Los Osos, Dunis was inspired by her love for fashion to start selling clothes again.

The shop is named after her grandmother.

“I’d always thought if I had a girl, I would name her Lilija,” Dunis said, “but I had two boys instead, and I always held onto that to use the name for something and so I thought, ‘perfect opportunity to use my grandmother’s name.’”

Fast fact

• Paso Robles Joint Unified School District held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Agriculture Barn on April 24. Located at Paso Robles High School, the barn gives students hands-on learning opportunities to engage in agriculture. The new facility will provide improved conditions for animals, with a temperature-regulated environment. ∆

Reach Intern Katy Clark at ntintern@newtimesslo.com.

The true value of the Oceano Dunes

Regarding the opinion piece, “Help keep Oceano Dunes SVRA free of vehicles forever” (April 23), I have serious concerns.

As a local who supports keeping access to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (ODSVRA) open, I’m curious who exactly the “local” residents and businesses behind the Oceano Beach Community Association are. A visit to their website raises more questions than answers. Their calendar shows no activity. No beach cleanups. No community meetings. No visible engagement. There isn’t even a clear list of the local businesses or members they claim to represent.

So, which “local businesses” are advocating for closure? And what measurable benefits do they believe come from restricting access? During past temporary closures, what economic improvements did they actually see? And what do they expect from a longterm or permanent shutdown?

Transparency matters, especially when a small group claims to speak for an entire community. The future of the Oceano Dunes impacts far more than just Oceano, it affects the entire Five Cities region.

One line from the opinion piece stands out: “Patronize local businesses to increase revenues during the closure and prove that vehicles on the beach do not generate income.” That argument doesn’t hold up. If vehicle access truly has no economic impact, why the need to “prove” it through redirected spending?

And which businesses are we supposed to support? Only those aligned with closure efforts? Or are locals free to support businesses that recognize the value the ODSVRA brings? If this is truly about community, then transparency, accountability, and honest economic discussion should come first.

Corey Clendenen Grover Beach

My vote for supervisor depends on their stance on offshore wind

In perfect political double-speak, Jim Dantona, candidate for 2nd District supervisor, talks out of both sides of his mouth in supporting offshore wind energy while simultaneously opposing industrial ports proposed for Morro Bay and/or Port San Luis/Avila Beach. This position is pure fantasy. Mr. Dantona knows enough to understand that industrial ports on the Central Coast are needed for California’s overall offshore wind energy goals. In fact, according to reports from the California Coastal Commission, the California Energy Commission, State Lands Commission, and others, a local operations and maintenance (O&M) port is essential for the development of the Morro Bay wind energy area off the coast of San Simeon. This port will likely include tow-in capacity for the massive turbine blades in need of repair, and will burden our communities with noise, air, light and water pollution for many years to come. Meanwhile, Dantona’s rival, Michael Erin Woody, states that he will do everything in his power to protect and preserve our coastal communities and the oceans off the Central Coast from industrialization. Mr. Woody is the only candidate in the race speaking clearly and honestly about this situation. He has my vote!

Nicole Dorfman Morro Bay

Focus on infrastructure and getting back to basics

Living in the 4th District, we see the results of neglected infrastructure every day. From pothole-riddled roads to aging bridges, the county has allowed our foundations to crumble while focusing on niche pet projects. It’s a lack of accountability that affects our safety and our wallets.

Adam Verdin’s back-to-basics platform is a breath of fresh air. He recognizes that infrastructure isn’t just a convenience; it’s a tier 1 priority that supports our economy and our daily lives. Adam isn’t offering vague promises. He’s calling for a transparent strategy where taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently on the things that actually matter to residents.

For too long, South County has been a secondary thought for the SLO County Board of Supervisors. We need a leader who will demand that our fair share of resources comes back to our communities. Adam Verdin has the backbone to hold the county accountable and ensure our roads and public facilities are finally given the attention they deserve.

Alyssa Sparling Oceano

Dear Shredder, about ‘Unsafe and insane’

In your April 23 opinion column, you state, “In Grover Beach, you could lose your house! Ridiculous, amirite?” Maybe an ordinance adopted by the city to fine users of illegal fireworks $1,000 could cause a homeowner to lose his home due to non-payment of the fine. But there’s a bigger picture here. Using illegal fireworks may also cause the homeowners of the other 5,800 homes in Grover Beach to lose theirs as well.

Remember the Palisades Fire just last year? Witnesses point to illegal fireworks in the neighborhood. That fire quickly grew to 37 square miles, ripping through the Palisades and Malibu neighborhoods, causing 12 deaths and destroying almost 7,000 homes and structures.

“You could literally lose your home if you get caught firing off a bottle rocket and can’t pay your $1,000 fine that compounds daily until the city takes your house—wowee!

That’s what I call a stiff penalty, amirite?”

When cities adopt ordinances to protect their residents that are ignored every year by people who think it’s part of their unalienable rights to use illegal fireworks in a state plagued by severe drought conditions and high winds, cities are forced to follow up with fines and penalties. Two years ago, a

homeowner in my AG neighborhood chose to use illegal fireworks, which started a fire that destroyed his home and damaged a home next to his. I’m just thankful it wasn’t windy that July 4 as I live on the hill right above his home.

But there’s a simple solution for those who feel it’s unfair that the penalties for using illegal fireworks may, in rare circumstances, cause cited homeowners to lose their homes because they “can’t pay the $1,000 fine.” Don’t use illegal fireworks. It’s not rocket science, amirite?

R. Demilo Arroyo Grande

The kind of leader we rarely see

In an era when public trust in government often feels like a lost cause, it’s easy to become cynical. But every now and then, you come across a leader who doesn’t just talk about values—they live them. For the last three years, I’ve watched Jimmy Paulding do exactly that.

He isn’t chasing headlines or grandstanding. He shows up to clean-up events, walks the neighborhoods, and listens—really listens—without needing to be the loudest voice in the room.

Take his commitment to older adults. Long before it was on the county’s radar, Jimmy helped develop a report highlighting gaps in senior housing and care. That laid the groundwork for the county’s first-ever Master Plan on Aging, which now guides improvements in health care access and senior infrastructure countywide. He did it because people needed it, not for the applause.

I also think about his seven years on the SLO County Air Pollution Control District, advocating for cleaner air on the Nipomo Mesa when others had given up. He ignored the noise, trusted the science, and stayed focused. As a result, PM10 pollution is now down nearly 40 percent on high-wind days. That kind of unglamorous persistence is rare in politics.

He pushed to make behavioral health a top county priority and tackled homelessness with actual systems: housing, outreach, and mental health services. It worked— unsheltered homelessness is down 31 percent in our county.

Integrity isn’t always loud and it doesn’t always make the front page. But it shows up in the decisions a leader makes when no one is watching. We need more leaders like Jimmy Paulding. Vote for him on June 2. Terry Parry Arroyo Grande

Let’s elect a business owner who understands the struggle

San Luis Obispo County should be a place where small businesses can thrive, but currently, the red tape is thicker than ever. Local entrepreneurs are met with endless permitting delays and a customer service mindset that feels more like an obstacle course. This lack of efficiency is a failure of leadership and accountability at the county level.

Adam Verdin understands this struggle firsthand as the owner of Old Juan’s Cantina. He knows that when the county fails to streamline its processes, it’s the working families and small employers who pay the price. Adam’s plan to establish a regular roundtable of local business leaders is exactly the kind of accountability we need. He wants to identify where the system is breaking down and fix it rather than just talking about it. We need a supervisor who views local businesses as partners, not tax revenue targets. Adam Verdin will bring a commonsense, results-oriented approach to the board. Let’s elect someone who actually knows how to sign the front of a paycheck. Graeme Blackburn Oceano

Conspiracy-whee!

Agroup that proposes separating California into two states—one that includes the Bay Area and portions of the Los Angeles and the Sacramento areas and one that includes all the rest—wants to review ballots from the 2024 presidential election and the 2025 Proposition 50 election for fraud.

The Bay Area generates an estimated 40 percent of the state’s revenue with Los Angeles also contributing a significant chunk. Good luck to The Great State of New California. Question: Can San Luis Obispo secede back into California? Sounds like it’ll be flying high on the state’s wealthiest while this great new state won’t be all that great. Someone didn’t do the math very well.

The math wizards who are part of this New California State movement are insistent that fraud is running rampant in this state’s elections. How else would California voters have rejected Trump for president? It’s not like California is full of liberal voters or anything. Oh wait. It is.

New California sent letters to sheriff’s and clerk-recorder’s offices in all 58 counties, taking inspiration from none other than that one sheriff running for governor who made national news for seizing 650,000 ballots in Riverside County without a shred of credible evidence of fraud. And apparently, he also thought it was a crazy thing to do but did it anyway. Because politics? Thanks, Chad Bianco

For SLO County Clerk-Recorder Elaina Cano, it’s a first. She called it “unique,” which

is kind of like being Southern and saying “bless your heart.”

The March 23 letter that New California State founder Robert Paul Preston sent to both her office and SLO County Sheriff Ian Parkinson’s office requested investigation of “alleged irregularities.” Members of Preston’s organization gave him “confidential ‘whistleblower’ information” about “voting irregularities” in the two elections, he wrote.

A whistleblower! Well, what are the allegations? He couldn’t say, he told New Times. It’s a secret, ya’ll!

But he wants to double check the numbers, because the math might not math, you know?

“Chad Bianco gave everybody probable cause when he found the discrepancy and he started counting the ballots,” Preston said.

What “discrepancy”? I haven’t heard about this. More super-secret whistleblower information, I suppose.

“Citizens need to have answers, and the government’s supposed to give us those answers, not stonewall us,” he said.

But the answers were the election results, right? Preston’s group just doesn’t like those results. Is that the evidence he’s yammering on about?

Some folks were concerned about how Parkinson might react to the request—could he be Bianco 2.0? And concerned folks even put out some misinformation about this whole

saga, accusing the sheriff of sending a ballots demand letter to Cano. Well, I’ll be. A politicized conversation where people jump to the wrong conclusions and then spread it all over town?

That never happened, Cano said. In fact, the SLO County Sheriff’s Office said it didn’t receive evidence indicating that a crime was committed.

“If credible information or evidence of a potential criminal violation is presented, the Sheriff’s Office would review it to determine whether it falls within our jurisdiction,” sheriff’s spokesperson Tony Cipolla said.

So, you’re saying there’s a chance?!

South County has its own political conspiracies. “Dark money” abounds in support of 4th District SLO County Jimmy Paulding, apparently, and now the South County Coalition is in trouble with the District Attorney’s Office for basically filing its paperwork wrong.

In an effort to fix what was supposedly wrong, the coalition responded to DA Dan Dow’s warning that it should change what kind of organization it’s registered as by trying to show that it was, in fact, what it said it was. As a “general purpose committee,” it said it was doing more than raising money in support of Paulding and listed off all the candidates it was supportive of.

“Our committee is one month into its existence, and it was formed to support multiple candidates for both the 2026 primary and general elections and beyond,”

Coalition Treasurer Dorothy Hines said.

But that got the coalition into more hot water,

it seems, because that list included someone running for federal office. The support that the coalition has for incumbent U.S. 24th District Rep. Salud Carbajal to retain his seat isn’t covered by the state’s paperwork, Dow said.

“The use of a single California committee to receive contributions and then pay for communications allocated in part to a federal candidate raises a significant issue as to whether federal election activity is being financed through an account and reporting structure not lawfully organized for that purpose,” Dow wrote back in response.

Uh oh! Are the people who formed this committee stupid or devious?

The research side of this “dark money” organization was underfunded, obviously.

Paulding claims he has no affiliation with the South County Coalition, of course. His opponent, Adam Verdin, tried to use this whole fiasco to benefit his campaign, of course, by sending out an email blast about “dark money.” But, he insists, the law is what counts.

“I would much prefer that they, the organization, that PAC, just correct themselves and follow the law,” Verdin said.

Verdin himself did follow the law regarding a different little 4th District race money conspiracy. His campaign returned those large “developer” donations earmarked for the November general election. ∆

The Shredder is a legal beagle. Send dossiers to shredder@newtimesslo.com.

MOTHER’S DAY

She Will Remember

Experience

Over 20 Tamale Vendors! Famous Dancing Horses! Ranchero Artist Manuel Enrique Ballet Folklórico Flor de Luna Dancers & Paso A Posito Folkloric Dance Group

Mariachi Azteca de Oro

Lo Mejor de Jalisco Mariachi Band Famous Chihuahua & Pet Costume Contest! Best Tamale & Tamale Eating Contest! Over 100 Vendors! Brass Mash Band! Bubble Fun 101 Games, Waffles the Miniature Donkey & More!

Hot Dates

ARTS

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY

Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint. com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.

COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES

Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California.

Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. (559) 799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

MAY FEATURED ARTIST HEMA SUKUMAR, FINE ART ACRYLIC PAINTINGS FROM THE COAST TO THE HILLS From shorelines to mountaintops, Hema Sukumar catches California and beyond in acrylic with warmth and a sharp eye for color. Through May 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

MAY FEATURED ARTIST JARI DE HAM, EXHIBITING SCULPTURES AND

SMALL WORKS From Chinese brush painting to stone sculptures, Jari de Ham’s work finds the Central Coast in an ancient artistic tradition. April 30 - May 29 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

MAY FEATURED ARTIST NATHAN TOOLE, WHERE COLOR FINDS ITS OWN ORDER Find color and form that feel right before you know why. Nathan Toole exhibits his acrylic abstract paintings. April 30 - May 29 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

MEET THE ARTISTS: MAY 2026 OPENING RECEPTION AT GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE Meet Nathan Toole, Hema Sukumar, and Jari de Ham and see their new works, along with the art of over 55 artists. May 9 3-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

NEIL SIMON’S CALIFORNIA SUITE By the Sea Productions is celebrating its 10th year of live theater in Morro Bay with a director’s workshop production of Neil Simon’s California Suite May 1 , 7 p.m., May 2 7 p.m., May 3 3 p.m., May 8 , 7 p.m., May 9 7 p.m. and May 10 3 p.m. $28.62. my805tix.com. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY 1ST & 3RD TUESDAY ART CLUB Join us at our first and third Tuesday Art Club, an evening where creativity and community come together. Bring whatever you’re working on. Every other Tuesday, 6:30-8:30 p.m. through May 5

Free. (805) 464-2564. fieldworkart.org/ artclub. Fieldwork, 5880 Entrada Ave, Atascadero.

CAMP CASS: SIP AND PAINT

WATERCOLOR NOTE CARDS Flex your creative muscles while you make a set of notecards for gifting or using yourself. May 9 $75. (805) 239-1730. Cass Winery, 7350 Linne Road, Paso Robles, casswines.com.

DATE NIGHT Couples or friends, bring a bottle of wine and enjoy a creative night out. Have fun and get messy as the venue walks you through the basics of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Fridays, 6-8 p.m. $144. (805) 203-0335. thepotteryatascadero.com/datenight. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.

DEPRISE BRESCIA ART GALLERY: ONGOING DISPLAYS Features a large selection of encaustic art, sculpted paintings, art installations, acrylic palette knife paintings, digital art, glass, jewelry, stones, fossils, and a butterfly sculpture garden. ongoing DepriseBrescia.com. Deprise Brescia Art Gallery, 829 10th St., Paso Robles, (310) 621-7543.

FIELDWORK WORKSHOP - OPEN STUDIO Join us every Tuesday for our community workshop! Bring your creative projects, meet fellow makers, and get inspired. No pressure, just creativity, good vibes, and snacks. Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m. $15. fieldworkart. org. Fieldwork, 5880 Entrada Ave, Atascadero, (971) 645-2481.

INK WORKS ‘26 Check out what the Central Coast Printmakers have been up to in this diverse collection of original prints by local artists! May 2 -June 28 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 238-9800.

SHEEP SHINDIG

The fifth Annual Sheep Shearing Shindig and Ag Festival will be held on Saturday, May 9, from noon to 4 p.m. at City Farm SLO. The free, family-friendly afternoon will include hands-on agriculture and wool processing, live demonstrations, farm tours, live music, and local food. Visit my805tix.com to get more details on specific happenings.

—Angie Stevens

studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

JUAN FUENTES ART AND SCREEN DEMO MEETS ONE COMMUNITY FUND AWARENESS AT THE POCKET GALLERY ON PINE The Pocket Gallery on Pine presents the last chance to view Juan Fuentes Artwork and Screen Printing Demo. May 2 3-6:30 p.m. (805) 440-7152. Pocket Gallery on Pine, 8491/2 13th Street, Paso Robles.

MONTHLY BIRTHDAY PLATE PAINTING AT ARTSOCIAL 805 Please join ArtSocial805 on the first Saturday of each month to paint a personalized “Birthday Plate,” for someone special or for yourself. The workshop is $35, which covers the plate, glaze, and firing. First Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. $35. (805) 400-9107. artsocial805. com. ArtSocial 805 Creative Campus, 631 Spring St., Paso Robles.

MOSAIC POT CLASS Create something truly one-of-a-kind in this hands-on workshop combining art and plants. In this class, you’ll design and build your own mosaic pot using a variety of colorful tiles and materials, then finish it by selecting the perfect succulent to plant inside. We’ll guide you through the basics of mosaic design and assembly, as well as proper succulent planting and care, so you leave with a beautiful, living piece you can enjoy at home. All materials are included, and no prior experience is needed—just bring your creativity. May 8 10 a.m.-noon $60.76. my805tix.com. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero, (805) 4606803.

STUDIOS ON THE PARK: CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS Check site for a variety of classes and workshops offered. ongoing

studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles, (805) 238-9800.

TAKE A SPIN: TWO-HOUR WHEEL

CLASS These two hour blocks provide an opportunity to learn the basics of wheel throwing. Instructors will center your clay for you, so you will have the opportunity to make two items. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon $72. (805) 203-0335. thepotteryatascadero.com/ wheelclasses. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.

WHIMSICAL SNAIL PAINTING

WORKSHOP Join McRobbins Studios in this Whimsical Snail painting class. This is perfect for beginners ages three and older. Expect simple step - by- step guidance, upbeat music, and fun! May 9 1:30-2:30 p.m. $25. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

“ONE VISIT” POTTERY CLASS This is a great class if you are looking to try out pottery! Throw on the wheel or paint pre-made pottery. Get a student discount with a valid school ID. Fridays, 6-7:30 p.m. $75. (805) 896-6197. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam

Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk

on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/gallery-artists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BEGINNING JUNK JOURNALING WORKSHOP WITH JUNKGIRLS Part scrapbooking, part journaling, and a whole lot of fun, this workshop is sure to get you hooked on this popular craft, junk journaling. May 2 , 2-5:30 p.m. $135. (805) 439-0123. JunkGirls, 870 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo, junkgirls.com.

BEGINNING WATERCOLORS WITH JAN FRENCH Come be introduced to this tricky but dynamic painting medium! The class is for beginners or advanced who’d like to “loosen up.” Inquire via email. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through May 26 $130. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BRUSHSTROKES & BURROS: PAINT, SIP, AND SUPPORT RESCUED DONKEYS AND MULES Moms, mimosas, and masterpieces; enjoy a creative afternoon at the sanctuary. All proceeds fund the rescue and rehabilitation of our beloved donkeys and mules. May 2 1-4 p.m. $125. (805) 710-8445. ranchoburrodonkeysanctuary.org. Rancho Burro Donkey Sanctuary, 4855 Righetti Road, San Luis Obispo. CENTRAL COAST COMEDY THEATER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW An ongoing improv comedy program featuring the CCCT’s Ensemble. Grab some food at the public market’s wonderful eateries and enjoy the show upstairs. Second Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. $10. centralcoastcomedytheater.com/shows/. SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo.

COLLAGING MORRO ROCK WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM Join us for this four-hour workshop where you will receive step-by-step instructions for creating a beautiful coastal image using a variety

Exhibitors as of April 22, 2026

of hand printed papers. May 9 12-4 p.m. $45. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

CREATIVE KIDS: AFTER SCHOOL The Creative Kids series is designed to ignite your child’s imagination and inspire creativity with each workshop focusing on a different medium! Wednesdays. through June 3 $150 for all 8 classes; $25 drop in. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo. com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

CUESTA DRAMA PRESENTS: SPRING

AWAKENING Spring Awakening winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, is an electrifying rock musical that redefined the boundaries of theatre.

May 7 7:30 p.m., May 8 , 7:30 p.m., May 9 7:30 p.m. and May 10 7:30 p.m. $20-$25. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece. Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $140. anamcre. com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP:

LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. (805) 5438562. sloma.org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

MOBILE CLAY CLASSES Offering handbuilding, throwing, and ceramic decorative arts. All ages and abilities are welcome. Call for more info. ongoing (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics. com/book-online. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.

MOTHER’S DAY COMEDY SHOWCASE

Celebrate Mother’s Day with an evening of great touring comics from The Comedy Store, Laughs Unlimited, and The Improv. Bring your Mom for free! May 9 , 8-10 p.m. $20. (805) 878-2038. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden. Second Saturday of every month, 1-4

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

SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN

MIC NIGHT Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 5482337, libertinebrewing.com.

TEEN NIGHT POTTERY IS LIVE Join Teen Night Pottery, for ages 14 and over. Teens will be taught to throw on the potters wheel, sculpt, or paint a pot. Snacks will be provided. Fridays, 6-7:30 p.m. $35. (805) 896-6197. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

THE LIFESPAN OF A FACT When a fresh out-of-Harvard fact-checker is assigned to a talented writer’s essay, they come head-to-head in a hilarious yet gripping battle over facts vs. truth. Fridays, 7-9 p.m., Saturdays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m., Sundays, 2-4 p.m. and Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. through May 14 $28-$47. (805) 786-2440. slorep. org/shows/the-lifespan-of-a-fact/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES

Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus exposure to Los Angeles talent agents. All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge. com. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande. CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

DISNEY’S ALICE IN WONDERLAND

JR. Coastal Christian School Presents: Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr. May 2 2-3 & 7-8 p.m. and May 3 2-3 p.m. $22. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

THE SLEEPING BEAUTY BY INTERNATIONAL BALLET STARS

Classical Arts Entertainment Presents: The Sleeping Beauty by International Ballet Stars. Believe in magic again! May 4 , 7:30-9:45 p.m. $49.50-$64.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA Check the venue’s calendar for storytelling workshops, lectures, movie nights, and discussions held on

Send event information to events@newtimesslo.com or submit online.

a periodic basis. ongoing thelavra.org/ home. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

2026 CRUISIN’ MORRO BAY CAR SHOW

April 30 5-8 p.m., May 1 , 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and May 2 , 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $95. my805tix. com. Downtown Morro Bay, Inquire for address, Morro Bay.

BREATHE AND STRETCH One must be able to get down onto the floor and back up again, with ease, in order to participate in this 55-minute session. It’s specifically designed to enhance mobility and strength. Please bring a mat and some water. Mondays, 9-10 a.m. $10 per session. (415) 516-5214. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

CAYUCOS ANTIQUE STREET FAIRE

Join us at the Cayucos Chamber of Commerce’s upcoming Antique Street Faire. May 3 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. (805) 751-3737. Cayucos Antique Street Faire, 10 N. Ocean Ave, Cayucos, cayucoschamber. com/antique-faire.

CENTRAL COAST UECHI-RYU KARATE-

DO Uechi-Ryu Karate-do is a traditional form of karate originating from Okinawa, Japan. Focus is on fitness, flexibility, and self-defense with emphasis on self -growth, humility, and respect. Open to ages 13 to adult. Beginners and experienced welcome. Instructor with 50 years experience. For info, call 805-215-8806. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278, morro-bay.ca.us.

CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS

MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom). For information, call 805900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654.

THE CREATIVE KEYS: FIND THE WAY INTO YOUR UNIQUE GIFTS Create a playlist of self-care practices that bring fun and magic into your life, help heal relationships and clarify your purpose.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 18

Register at the link. May 8 1-3 p.m. $75. dreamgirlwriter.com/playshops.

Moonstone Cellars, 812 Cornwall St, Cambria, (805) 927-9466.

ENJOY AXE THROWING Enjoy the art of axe throwing in a safe and fun environment. Kids ages 10 and older are welcome with an adult. No personal axes please. Fridays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. $20. (805) 528-4880. baysidemartialarts.com. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS

DISCUSSION GROUP A group of metaphysically minded individuals that have been meeting for many years now in the Coalesce Chapel. Club offers a supportive metaphysical based community. Members discuss a different topic each week. All are welcome to join. Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10-$15. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.

SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP Have a topic, book, or article you wish to discuss with interested and interesting people? Join this weekly meeting to discuss it, or simply contribute your experiences and knowledge. Contact Mark Plater for instructions on entering the Chapel area.

Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon (805) 528-7111. Coalesce Garden Chapel, 845 Main St., Morro Bay.

STRETCH, BREATHE, AND BALANCE

Ideal for seniors, and open to everyone. Instructor Randal Bodlak takes you through specific moves to promote mobility, internal strength, and stability. Mondays, 9-10 a.m. $10 per session. (805) 528-4880. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

TAI CHI AND QI GONG: ZEN IN MOTION

Small group classes with 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the Year. Call for time and days. Learn the Shaolin Water Style and 5 Animals Qi Gong. Beginners welcomed. Mondays, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call for price details. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

WEEKLY QIGONG PRACTICE AT FITNESSWORKS MORRO BAY Calm your mind and nourish your joints with a weekly Qigong practice led by Mike Raynor of Tai Chi Rejuvenation. The practice is rooted in Qigong fundamentals, and standing/moving

meditations. Forms include: Eight Brocades, Five Elements, Shibashi 18, and Tai chi 24. Saturdays, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Members free; non-members $8-$10. (805) 772-7466. fitnessworksmb. com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

2026 MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH Enjoy vineyard brunch, live music by Dulcie Taylor Band, plus massages and bouquet bar for moms—a perfect family celebration. May 10 , 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $80. (805)239-1730. exploretock.com. Cass Winery, 7350 Linne Road, Paso Robles.

A-TOWN POP-UP MARKET The A-Town monthly Pop-Up Market at the Atascadero Lake Park is the perfect place to find a tasty treat or a treasure. Shop from over 20 succulent varieties, houseplants, tasty treats, local honey, pottery and handmade items, jewelry, and more. Second Sunday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Dec. 20 Free. (805) 538-2701. linktr.ee/ atownpopup. Atascadero Lake Park, 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero.

BALANCE FLOW Suitable for all levels. This class is meant to benefit the mindbody connection while emphasizing safe and effective alignment as well as breath awareness and relaxation. Please call to register in advance. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $16-$22; $50 membership. (805) 434-9605. ttrtennis.com/fitness/ yoga/. Templeton Tennis Ranch, 345 Championship Lane, Templeton.

MOTHER’S DAY AT HAMBY LAVENDER FARM Wander the lavender fields, breathe in the calming scent of bloom, visit the friendly farm animals, and settle into a picnic. May 10 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $20-$30. (805) 975-0056. HamblyFarms. com. Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel.

MOTHER’S DAY PLANT BINGO Peaceful Plants will host a Mother’s Day Plant Bingo at Ancient Owl Beer Garden & Bottle Shop. The event will combine the classic game of bingo with the chance to win houseplants, offering a relaxed afternoon for plant lovers and anyone looking for something to do with the plant-lover in your life. May 10 , 3-5 p.m. $39.34. my805tix.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero, (805) 460-6042.

REPOTTING CLASS It’s spring so Peaceful Plants is holding its annual

repotting class where you get to bring plants you may be concerned about or know it’s ready for a bigger pot. We’ll go over the why, when and how of repotting in this class, while providing a nursery pot in the next size up and new soil, as well as use of all the tools you’ll need. Have more plants you want to repot, no problem. May 9 1 p.m. $23.27. my805tix. com. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero, (805) 460-6803.

SANTA MARGARITA TOWN WIDE YARD

SALE Head to this town-wide yard sale. May 2 8 a.m.-noon Free. Santa Margarita Beautiful, El Camino Teal, Santa Margarita, (805) 400-1400.

TRIVIA NIGHT AT TEMPLETON

MERCANTILE Join every Tuesday night for all-ages trivia. Prizes are awarded to top teams. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. Templeton Mercantile, 508 S Main St, Templeton.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

2026 MOTHER’S DAY FAERIE FESTIVAL

Join for a Mother’s Day celebration at the SLO Botanical Garden filled with arts and crafts, music, and family fun! May 9 10

a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 541-1400. slobg. org/calendar-of-events/. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

30-DAY BREATH AND RESET JOURNEY

FOR WOMEN Wired at night, drained all day? Reset your body in 30 days. Focus on breath practices to calm stress, sleep deeply, and restore lasting energy. Registration is required. Tuesdays, 6:307:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody.com. Live Webinar, online, SLO County.

5TH ANNUAL SHEEP SHEARING

SHINDIG Join for our 5th Annual Sheep Shearing Shindig and Ag Festival — a free, family-friendly afternoon of live demonstrations, hands-on activities, farm tours, live music, with local food, beer, and wine. Whether you’ve been a friend of the farm for years or you’re visiting for the first time, there’s something here for everyone of all ages. May 9 12-4 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. City Farm SLO, 1221 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, (805) 769-8344.

BATTLE OF THE CENTRAL COAST

Join us at the SLO Vets Hall for an

PLANT POTS

A Mosaic Pot Class will take place at The Pottery in Atascadero on Friday, May 8, from 10 a.m. to noon. The hands-on workshop will guide creatives through mosaic design and assembly basics, and each participant will finish with a succulent plant pot to take home. All materials are included in the class, and no prior experience is necessary. Tickets are $60.76 each and can be purchased at my805tix.com.

—A.S.

unforgettable evening featuring fighters battling it out in the octagon. Watch top-tier athletes showcase their skills, strength, and strategy in an actionpacked lineup of bouts. May 9 5-11:30 p.m. $44.69. my805tix.com. Veteran’s Memorial Building, 801 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

BEST OF SLO COUNTY WINNERS

PARTY Every year New Times Media Group hosts the Best of SLO County reader poll, count the votes, contact the winners, hand out awards and banners, and publish all the winners in our annual Best of SLO County edition of New Times. It’s a great opportunity for the community to vote for and support local businesses. To celebrate our 40th year and all 242 winners, they are hosting the first Best of SLO County Winners Party! May 8 5-8 p.m. $5. my805tix.com. Marisol Restaurant at The Cliffs Hotel & Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Road, Pismo Beach, (805) 773-5000 ext. 1.

BOARD GAME NIGHT AT CAPTAIN NEMO GAMES Game night is on! Join us Tuesdays at 5 p.m. at Captain Nemo Games for fun, friendly board gaming. All skill levels welcome! Tuesdays, 5-9 p.m. Free. (805) 544-6366. facebook. com/events/2047427899121921/204742 7949121916?acontext=%7B%22event_ action_history%22%3A[]%7D. Captain Nemo Games, 565 Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo.

BOOK BUDDIES Bookworms, assemble! Woods Humane Society is welcoming animal lovers age 7 to 17 to join us in reading to our furry friends. Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $5. (805) 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/youthprograms. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA

Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.

CARE CREW Calling all crafty, caring, pet-loving kids! Care Crew members will join us in filling Kongs for our canines, crafting pet toys, and creating art. Sundays, 2-3:30 p.m. $5. (805) 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/youthprograms. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not

faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:30-11:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo.

CITY FARM SLO’S YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM Check site for more info on programming and summer camps. ongoing cityfarmslo.org. San Luis Obispo, Citywide, SLO. COMPLIMENTARY SHOWERS WITH SHOWER THE PEOPLE After a short hiatus, the San Luis Obispo Library will once again be partnering with local non-profit organization, Shower the People. The shower trailer will be located between the library and parking structure. Toiletries provided. Sundays, 1-3 p.m. Free. San Luis Obispo Library, 995 Palm St., San Luis Obispo. DEATH CAFE (EVERY 1ST TUESDAY ON THE MONTH) At Death Café, curiosity and community converge for open, thoughtful conversations about mortality, loss, and our shared human experience. Donations to Hospice SLO County are always appreciated. First Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 544-2266. hospiceslo.org/services/ death-caf%C3%A9. Hospice SLO County, 1304 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo. FREE COMIC BOOK DAY Join the Comic Book Day and grab up to 12 free comics. Those in costumes earn more. There is free parking behind the Captain Nemo Comics store. May 2 , 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 544-6366. facebook. com/events/2161380934716526/. Captain Nemo Games, 563 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and importance to the development of this area. Tours are led by docents and meet in front of the church Sundays, 2:30 p.m. and Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15 p.m. Free. (805) 550-7713. missionslodocents.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free with $5 CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 19

Garden Entry. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org.

San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT

GROUP A safe place to share feelings of depression with those who suffer and those who have recovered to a full, healthy outlook on life. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

INNER PEACE DAY RETREAT Join this day retreat in Montecito for meditation, yoga, sound healing, tea, and teachings on inner peace with Bhai Bahadur Singh Ji. May 9 1-8 p.m. (805) 724-4324. drishti. house/products/innerpeacedayretreat.

Flowing River, Tabor Lane, Montecito.

JAPANESE AMERICANS AND THE AMERICAN DREAM Author Naomi Shibata will highlight the 20th century Japanese American experience and reflect on the impact historical events had on the Central Coast community.

May 2 , 10:30 a.m.-noon Free.. (805) 7814187. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

LUNCHTIME IN THE GARDEN UC

Master Gardeners of SLO County extend an invitation to the public to visit our demonstration garden. See what’s in bloom and learn something new.

First Wednesday of every month, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Sept. 2 Free. (805) 781-5939. ucanr.edu. Garden of the Seven Sisters Demonstration Garden, 2156 Sierra Way, San Luis Obispo.

MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE Stretch into yourself under the beautiful oaks and fresh air of this idyllic country setting. Suitable for all levels, these classes emphasize the gentler side of yoga and adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for five-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda. com. Tiber Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, San Luis Obispo.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION

(ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.

MOUNTAIN BIKE SKILLS CAMP Join SLO Ranger Service for a free Mountain Bike Skills Camp with beginner clinics, safety tips, trail etiquette, and fun activities for young riders. May 9 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. slorangers.org. Laguna Lake Park, 504 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

NATURE RHYTHMS: MINDFUL DRUMMING, SONG, NATURE CONNECTION Nature Rhythms is a welcoming circle where we gather to slow down, drum, sing, and reconnect with ourselves, with nature, and with one another. Join us at Crow’s End Retreat Center, a quiet and serene rural setting nestled in Squire Canyon. May 6 11 a.m.12:15 p.m. $13.63-$24.34. my805tix.com. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

PARKOUR CLINIC Parkour offers a path to social confidence. Come flip with flair in a safe, nurturing environment at our Parkour Clinic. Geared towards children 7 to 17 years old. All levels are welcome. May 9 1-3 p.m. $25. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

PUPPY SOCIAL HOUR Puppies (10 weeks to 5 months old) will learn appropriate play style with other pups, acceptable manners with people, tolerance for gentle restraints, confidence with the approach of friendly strangers, and more. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. and Saturdays, 9 a.m. $25. (805) 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/ training/. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

SIP ‘N’ SAUNTER Attendees can

“Sip & Saunter” their way through downtown’s beautiful tree-lined streets, sampling some of the Central Coast’s

CELEBRATE MOMS AT CUYAMA

The third annual Mother’s Day High Tea will be held at Cuyama Buckhorn in New Cuyama on Sunday, May 10, at 2 p.m. Sip from a selection of tea blends crafted by Ferial Sadeghian, while enjoying light pastries and snacks. Cuyama local Ron Miller will also perform live music. Tickets to the high tea are $78. To reserve a spot, head to cuyamabuckhorn.com.

finest food and drinks. May 3 12-4 p.m. downtownslo.com/events/sip-n-saunter.

Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.

THE SLO FLOWER COLLECTIVE WEEKLY FLOWER MARKET

Enjoy an amazing weekly fresh flower market, open to the public. Enjoy the historic gardens with local blooms from nine local flower farmers. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Nov. 5 Free. sloflowercollective.com. Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, 1185 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO MOTION TOASTMASTERS OPEN HOUSE Come to our open house and see what happens at a Toastmasters meeting, get pizza, snacks, and win prizes! May 4 12-1 p.m. Free. (805) 8356580. slomotion.toastmastersclubs.org/. Caltrans Midway Building, 2885 South Higuera St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets at the SLO Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors are welcome. First Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 5409484, slocity.org/seniors.

TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 540-6576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

THE FIRST TEASE: A FIVE-WEEK BEGINNER BURLESQUE SERIES

Only 10 spots are available for this beginner-friendly burlesque series, led by performer Miss Belle Voilé. Learn burlesque fundamentals, build confidence, and perform! May 1 6:308:30 p.m. $299. nexusslo.com. Nexus SLO, 3845 S Higuera St.( Lower Level), San Luis Obispo, (805) 904-7428.

TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN

CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors. Please RSVP. Second Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.

WORLD DONKEY DAY OPEN HOUSE Celebrate World Donkey Day at Rancho Burro for ages eight and older! Enjoy free guided tours. Registration is required. May 8 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. (805) 710-8445. form.jotform. com/261026700458149. Rancho Burro Donkey Sanctuary, 4855 Righetti Road, San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ADULT SOFTBALL Let’s play ball! The City of Arroyo Grande’s Adult Softball League is a fun and competitive program offering leagues for Coed Teams and Men’s Teams. Sundays, 3-9 p.m. through May 17 $671. (805) 473-5474. arroyogrande.org/709/Adult-Sports. Soto Sports Field, Ash Street, Arroyo Grande.

BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:156:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 905-9274. theartofsilence. net. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS

CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. (970) 710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.

BOOK SALE Check out the used books for sale to benefit the Friends of Shell

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 20

There

Beach Library. May 9 , 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Shell Beach Veteran’s Community Building, 230 Leeward Avenue, Shell Beach, (805) 878-7454.

COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN MONTHLY VOLUNTEER

WORKDAY Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks including pathways maintenance, litter patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, irrigation system expansion/repairs, pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, and tools related to the above activities. First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 710-3073. Nipomo Native Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo. DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) 280-5800. margotschaal.com/qigong. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail.com for details and reservations. ongoing (805) 619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

LA CONVERSACIÓN Join La Conversación, a group for practicing spoken Spanish. There is no homework or lessons, just conversation. Thursdays, 9-11:30 a.m. Free. Greenhouse Coffee Company, 1064 E Grand Av, Arroyo Grande, (805) 825-1345.

MOTHER’S DAY TEA PARTY This beautiful event includes tea and lemonade, tea sandwiches, scones, dessert, music, crafts, photo ops, painting class, and more! May 10 , 1-3:30 p.m. $50. (805) 473-5472. https:/arroyogrande.org/rec. Historical Society Heritage Garden, 126 S. Mason St., Arroyo Grande.

MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. (805) 904-6615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/ events/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

FOOD & DRINK

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY BRUNCH IS BACK Celebrate the second Sunday of the month with brunch. Enjoy a two-hour cruise on the waterfront. Features fresh coffee, pastries, and more. Second Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $50. (805) 772-2128. chabliscruises. com. Chablis Cruises, 1205 Embarcadero, Morro Bay. MORRO BAY MAIN STREET FARMERS MARKET Get fresh and veggies, fruit, baked goods, sweets, and handmade artisan crafts. Come have some fun with your local farmers and artisans and enjoy delicious eats while enjoying the fresh breeze of Morro Bay. Saturdays, 2:30-5:30 p.m. Varies. (805) 824-7383. morrobayfarmersmarket.com. Morro Bay Main Street Farmers Market, Main Street and Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH Celebrate the mother figures in your life with a delicious brunch at Cambria Pines Lodge! May 10 , 12-3 p.m. $29-$59. (805) 927-4200. cambriapineslodge.com. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.

WOOD-FIRED PIZZA NIGHTS AT CAMBRIA PINES LODGE Join us every Friday for an unforgettable evening of fun, food, and festivities at the Pizza Nook at Cambria Pines Lodge! Fridays, 5-9 p.m. through Sept. 25 Free. (805) 927-4200. cambriapineslodge.com. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

CLUB CAR BAR TRIVIA WITH DR. RICKY Teams of one to six people welcome. Visit site for more info. Wednesdays, 7-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.

HARMONIOUS PAIRINGS Enjoy wines thoughtfully paired with seasonal bites by our Estate Chef Bryan Mathers, each crafted to complement pieces by talented musicians of the SLO Symphony. May 10 , 6-7:30 p.m. $125-$150. (805) 286-4028. exploretock.com. Parrish Family Vineyard, 3590 Adelaida Road, Paso Robles.

SCULPTERRA SPRING WINE CLUB DINNER The Spring Wine Club Dinner at Sculpterra Winery & Sculpture Garden is a special evening celebrating the season with great wine, food, and community. Guests will enjoy a curated multi-course dinner paired with Sculpterra wines, along with insights and stories from the winemaking team, all set among the beautiful sculpture gardens. There will also be live music by The Pat Pearson Project! While it’s a celebration for wine club members, the dinner is also open to non-wine club guests, making it a perfect opportunity to experience Sculpterra’s wines and hospitality. May 8 , 6 p.m. $108.97$135.74. my805tix.com. Sculpterra Winery, 5015 Linne Rd., Paso Robles, (805) 226-8881.

TACO TUESDAYS La Parilla Taqueria will be in the courtyard serving up their delicious tacos and tostadas. Menu typically includes barbacoa, chicken, and pastor tacos, as well as shrimp ceviche tostadas. Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. (805) 460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

TASTE OF TIN CITY WALKING TOUR Enjoy the first ever walking tour of Tin City – an industrial area just outside of downtown Paso Robles – that is home to a community of innovative and passionate producers of high-quality wines, spirits, beer, and more. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $125. (805) 400-3141. toasttours.com/tour/tin-city-walking-tour/. Toast Tours, 1722 Stillwater Ct, Paso Robles.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo.

PIÑATAS ON THE PATIO What is more festive than a piñata? Join for some brunch drinks and a couple of good hits to a piñata (or two). Good times and goofy prices promised. Turns will be determined on a first come, first served basis. First Sunday of every month Free. SLO Public Market, South Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo.

SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

SLO GRANGE PANCAKE BREAKFAST Join the SLO Grange Hall for a good old-fashioned pancake breakfast. Pancakes, bacon, eggs, juice, and coffee will be served, and proceeds will benefit local non-profits. Second Sunday of every month, 8-11 a.m. $10. (805) 543-0639. slogrange.org. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT PUB TRIVIA Bring your thinking cap as questions vary from pop culture, geography, to sports. There is a little for everyone. Prizes for the winning teams. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 439-2529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES New topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home. Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing. com/classes/. Join to expand your knowledge of the fermentation process and get started fermenting at home. We alternate between demonstration and hands-on classes. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30-$50. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

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

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

MOTHER’S DAY HIGH TEA Join for the third annual Mother’s Day High Tea at Cuyama Buckhorn! Celebrate all the moms in your life with light bites and freshly prepared tea during this Buckhorn take on a traditional high tea affair. May 10 , 2 p.m. $78. cuyamabuckhorn.com. Cuyama Buckhorn, 4923 Primero St., New Cuyama, (661) 766-2825. ∆

Wonderful Wizard Oz the

Arts

Held over by popular demand

If you missed your chance to meet Chicano artist, longtime cultural worker, art teacher, social activist/poster maker, and printmaker Juan Fuentes the last time he made an appearance at Paso’s Pocket Gallery on Pine, you’re in luck.

“Juan’s show was such a great success we held it over for the relaunch of the first Saturday Art After Dark in Paso that was supposed to begin,” gallery proprietor Susan Lyon said. “Unfortunately, the arts council needs more time [before launching the event], but there will be a soft launch on Saturday, May 2 (3 to 7 p.m.), with a chance to meet the artist and watch him demonstrate screen printing outside.”

Fuentes’ work is often political in nature, depicting marginalized people, calling for better stewardship of the environment, or celebrating artists and activists.

“My goal has always been to portray our people in a very positive, beautiful, and dignified manner in contrast to the continual negative portrayal of us in the media,” Fuentes explained on his website, juanrfuentes.com.

Pocket Gallery on Pine is located at 1311 Pine St. or 8491 1/2 13th St. For more info contact Lyon by phone at (805) 440-7152 or email at susan@ctcranch.com

Doggie paddle

Pismo Beach hosts The World Dog Surfing Championships on Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the north side of the pier. Free and open to the public, you can view the competition up close from the beach or get a bird’s eye view from the pier. Is it art? Dogs in life vests riding surfboards to the beach is beautiful, so it’s art!

“The World Dog Surfing Championships is the premier competitive dog surfing event in the world, held annually in Pacifica, California,” the city announced. “The WDSC Exhibition Tour is a traveling showcase designed to bring the sport to new audiences and new communities. Pismo Beach marks the tour’s first-ever appearance on California’s Central Coast.”

The official competitive demonstration is between six elite dog surfing teams, but if you have a dog that surfs, sign Fido up via eventbrite.com for community heats that are open to local dogs. There will also be a dog beach fashion contest, dog adoptions in partnership with local rescue organizations, and a Surf Dog Village with sponsors tents, local organization info booths, and meet-the-dog opportunities.

Feel free to bring your dog, but city leash laws apply, dogs are not allowed on the pier, and only competing dogs are allowed in the water. Hang eight! Δ Glen Starkey

BY GLEN STARKEY

Come on, get happy

Casa Ramos wants to lighten your psychic load

Are you happy? A lot might be bringing you down, but at Casa Ramos Art Gallery in Los Osos, proprietor Elena Ramos-Peffly wants to turn your frown upside down with Happy, an art show and an opening party on May 2.

“Happy came to be when I was looking for ways to reinvigorate the spirit of our people,” RamosPeffly said. “There’s a lot of protest art, art that shows the scary, sad, graphic realities of what’s happening around the world, everything that’s so heavy right now. It’s needed. It’s like Picasso’s Guernica or Goya’s paintings during the Spanish Civil War, but at the same time, our hearts are craving something to smile about. It’s like we’re craving for the sun to come out. So, for me, this is the protest. I’m not letting what’s happening in the world dim my light, and I wanted to extend that to other people when they come to our show.”

In part, the idea of a show promoting happiness was inspired by the very people who wander into her gallery. They all seem to leave with smiles on their faces.

“I have people come into the gallery, and they’re so forlorn, and their faces are so withdrawn, maybe they just read something in the news, and they just look so bummed out, but when they’re in there, they tell me, ‘Wow, I can actually take a deep breath, and I feel happy. This art makes me feel happy.’ That’s what I wanted to harness, you know?”

Casa Ramos takes its name from Ramos-Peffly’s famous artist father, John Ramos, known for his “wish you were here” realist art that places the viewer in idyllic settings. The gallery mounted a retrospective of his work last November, and he just turned 85 on April 20, but he’s still painting, and his work is happiness personified.

“There’s humor in my work and positivity,” he explained from his Los Osos studio. “I don’t paint angst. I don’t paint the negative side of life. I only paint the positive. It makes you feel alive. It makes you smile.”

He’s currently working on a painting of Big Sur, but over his long career, he’s made dozens of paintings that have been made into fine art giclee prints, which Ramos-Peffly frames in her gallery.

In addition to work by her father, she’s also

You’re invited!

Casa Ramos Art Gallery (1034 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos) hosts a new group exhibition titled Happy, an art show, opening Saturday, May 2, from 2 to 6 p.m.

“The exhibition brings together a group of Central Coast artists with new work selected around a shared intention: to create pieces that offer a sense of happiness, color, and optimism,” the gallery announced. “While each artist approaches the theme in their own way, the work is unified by a focus on what feels like a mental escape.”

Contact the gallery via email at hello@losososart.com or by calling (805) 439-0306.

showing work by oil painter Mike Golling, ceramicist Phillip Lopez, glass artist George Jercich, recycled and found object artist Jonny Miller, jewelry artist Adrianne Jenkins, sculptor Dan Rider, and her own fauvistinspired paintings of interiors.

“I told [the artists] that, for the first time, I’m not going to be curating this show,” Ramos-Peffly explained. “In the past, when we’ve done Earth Day shows, I’d say, ‘OK, we’re going to have a nature theme.’ But this time around, I just told them, ‘You’re going to put in the gallery whatever’s been inspiring you for the last six months. When you’ve wanted to take all your creative instincts and just put them away and not even think about creating art, what’s brought you out of that? That’s

what I want you to hang on the walls.’ There’re no expectations from me. I want them to freely create. It was just whatever you’re doing that’s making you happy right now.”

That utter freedom, that complete lack of expectations, influenced the artists. Jonny Miller, a professional skateboarder who often makes beach culture assemblage or decorated skate decks, made a self-portrait.

“Our ceramicist [George Jercich] brought in three vessels that he created,” Ramos-Peffley said. “I asked him, ‘So, what did you think? Do you feel like this pulled you out of your comfort zone?’ And he said, ‘It’s all I can think about for the last three months.’ He’s like, ‘You have no idea how exciting this was for me to just do something that I’ve always wanted to do that’s completely abstract and different than I’ve ever done before, and I am so excited about it.’ That was fantastic.”

Her dad isn’t as prolific as he once was, and his formerly hyperrealist work has changed a bit as he’s gotten older.

“He doesn’t see as well, and his dexterity is not the same,” Ramos-Peffly explained. “He’s not processing the way a 40-year-old would, at the height of his career. But I told him about this show, and I said, ‘This is the deal. If you’—and I had to be a little bit of a patrona here—I said, ‘If you want to have a painting in this show, you have to paint authentically for who you are at this point.’”

Send gallery, stage, and cultrual festivities to arts@newtimesslo.com.

She got him some bigger brushes, a big canvas, and told him, “‘It doesn’t have to be perfect. I just want you to have fun. So sit at your easel and paint as John Ramos at 85 years old.’ He’s using colors and shapes and fluidity that I’ve never seen him use before. And quite honestly, I wish that he would have done this a long time ago. He’s been the master of detail and photorealism, but this is who he is today. And I love it. It’s so great to see how his mind is just still thriving with art, and if he didn’t have art, I don’t know what he’d be doing. I honestly don’t.”

Painting is transporting, and Ramos creates beautiful images you want to get lost in.

“When I’m sitting here painting, I’m in la-la land,” he laughed. “If I think about how crazy the world is, the Middle East, the world at war, and it’s awful, just awful, what I do is I get back to work on my paintings. I get my brush, and I start mixing colors, and that takes me to a different place. Everything else just kind of changes, and I just feel good. It’s been like that all my life.”

“Artists, all throughout history, have had to create during horrible times,” Ramos-Peffly added. “And I feel like it’s our responsibility now to carry on that fight and keep going to show how beautiful the world can be. It all comes from within each and every one of these creative people that we have at the gallery. As long as I have a place to show art, and a place for my artists to be able to display their art, we’re winning, and that’s all that I care about at this point. So, yeah, Happy, an art show.” ∆

Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.

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his four-part documentary series directed by Liz Garbus (What Happened, Miss Simone?) and written by Sara Enright (Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes) follows media mogul Rupert Murdoch as his children compete to see who will inherit his multibillion-dollar media empire. (four 47to 56-min. episodes)

DYNASTY: THE MURDOCHS

What’s it rated? TV-MA

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Glen The Murdock clan really knows how to put the “nasty” in “dynasty.” What a nest of vipers. Through interviews with journalists and private communications between the feuding family members, we get a picture of the cutthroat battle that fractured a family. I have to say, Rupert’s personality and ruthlessness was clearly passed on to his children, especially Lachlan, Elisabeth, and James. Rupert’s eldest daughter, Prudence MacLeod, from his first marriage, wisely chose to sit out the battle. As journalist Jim Rutenberg noted in the docuseries, “[Rupert] wasn’t raising children, he was raising possible successors.” Maybe it’s nice to be that rich, or maybe that kind of wealth and power is soul destroying.

Anna Honestly, you couldn’t pay me $1.1 billion or whatever the Murdoch kids wound up with in the settlement to have a toxic family dynamic like this. Rupert Murdoch is gross, and he surrounds himself with gross people and has taught his children that grossness equals success. The media mogul built an empire that boasts abhorrent conservative “values,” abuses and degrades women, and places profit over people with each and every boardroom decision. While this series is a great deep dive into the family and the true-life story that inspired Succession, this family is unpleasant to watch. How things unfolded is absolutely

DTF ST. LOUIS

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2026

Where’s it showing? HBO Max

Iheard Jason Bateman talking about this series on his podcast Smartless as it was being made, so when DTF St. Louis hit HBO streaming, I thought I was ready for what was to come. I’d seen the trailer, I knew the premise, but hats off to creator Steve Conrad for a truly inventive, soulful, and ultimately heartrending series.

When weatherman Clark Forrest (Jason Bateman) meets ASL interpreter Floyd Smernitch (David Harbour) during a tornado, there’s an undeniable connection. The two just seem to “get” each other, and when Clark meets Floyd’s wife, Carol (Linda Cardellini), they also find their own spark.

bonkers, but I walked away from it even more disgusted with the amount of power this man has managed to hold for decades. He’s a straight-up Batman villain come to life.

Glen It’s still hard to believe Rupert managed to escape the 2011 Milly Dowler phone hacking scandal when it was discovered his News of the World publication had hacked into a murdered girl’s phone for information. Apparently, his reporters had been hacking the Royals for years. He just slimed out from under it by pretending to be ignorant and a doddering old man. No way! This guy is savvy and calculating and devoid of empathy. He even throws his son James under the bus. Who pits his children against each other? We also meet three of his five wives. Turns out, money can buy you love, but not lasting love. All that money, and these people have wallowed in misery. I almost— almost—feel sorry for them.

Anna Unfortunately, it’s easier to believe than it should be. Look at where we are with the Epstein files, the hard evidence against many in power, and the complete lack of action.

I don’t want to ruin the series and the twists and turns for you, and my words will never be as compelling as an actual watch in this case. What we’re offered is a wonderful exploration of friendships, relationships, and family dynamics. Something drastic and dramatic happens to one of our main characters at the start of the series, and the rest is a slow puzzle that helps it all make sense and manages to make the audience love these characters, even in their loneliest and most desperate moments. This is the most engaging series I’ve seen in a while. (seven 47and 58-min. episodes)

—Anna

BREAKDOWN: 1975

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2025

Wealth is perhaps the ugliest of human inventions, and the Murdochs embody that. It’s hard to not feel sorry for his children in many ways, and his wives, because it seems that ultimately everyone in Rupert’s life is simply a game piece on his chessboard. He turns on them left and right and treats his status and his company as some sort of reward. Talk about trading your soul—his world solely revolves around himself, and his legacy unfortunately continues as Fox News continues to spew hatred and lies. The fourpart series doesn’t shy away from letting his children also show us who they are and how little sympathy they truly deserve. None of them are particularly kind to each other, and that speaks to the cutthroat dynamic their household held growing up. This series made me very grateful to be wealthy in the ways that count. ∆

Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Split Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Morgan Neville (Lorne, Man on the Run) directs this documentary he co-wrote with Alan Lowe (Mr. November, Lorne) that examines the year 1975 through the lens of the risk-taking movies released that year: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Dog Day Afternoon, Jaws, Shampoo, Three Days of the Condor, and more. There are some factual missteps: The doc brings up Chinatown, Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore and The Conversation—all fantastic films from 1974—and Taxi Driver, All the President’s Men and Network—also fantastic films but released in 1976. Maybe it should be renamed Breakdown: Mid-1970s

That said, it was an admittedly pivotal year culturally between the Watergate scandal and the upcoming Bicentennial, with many stellar films. However, at just 92 minutes, it doesn’t get very deep into the history of cinema, and its thesis that 1975 was the most important year in the fertile 1970s is obviously subjective, but if you want a reminder of a lot of the great films from that year-ish as well as nostalgic archival footage, historical context, and interviews with folks like Patton Oswalt, Josh Brolin, Martin Scorsese, Seth Rogen, Oliver Stone, and others, it’s a fun look back. Narration is by Taxi Driver star Jodie Foster. (92 min.) ∆ —Glen

THREE’S A CROWD Clark Forrest (Jason Bateman), Carol Love-Smernitch (Linda Cardellini), and Floyd Smernitch (David Harbour) become sexually entwined, in DTF St. Louis, streaming on HBO Max and Hulu.

Music

BY GLEN STARKEY

Not grampa’s bluegrass

Water Tower plays Parkfield Bluegrass

Festival

If you’re in the mood for some pickin’ and grinnin’ on Mother’s Day weekend, it’s time to buy tickets to the Parkfield Bluegrass Festival, Thursday, May 7, through Sunday, May 10. More than a dozen groups will perform, including Water Tower, a punk-inflected bluegrass act led by Kenny Feinstein.

“Oh man, we’re so excited,” Feinstein said via Zoom. “This is our second year in a row, and we had a blast last time. We actually got to film a music video last year, and we recruited a bunch of pickers and kids, so that’s one of our songs called ‘Put Your Shoes On’ that features the whole area [including V6 Ranch].”

Stop reading, go to YouTube, and look the video up. You’ll totally catch the Parkfield vibe and hear Water Tower’s sound.

“This year, what’s really exciting is the Foghorn Stringband is coming,” Feinstein continued. “Foghorn are the genesis of Water Tower.”

At 16, Feinstein saw Foghorn in Portland when they played a square dance.

“My whole life changed, and I wanted to do old-time string band music. We all love it,” he said of his bandmates. “We were basically a Foghorn tribute band for years. In fact, they used to call us Foghorn Junior and Water Babies and Mist Whistle and things like that.”

In the early days circa 2005, they were called The Water Tower Bucket Boys and later Water Tower String Band.

“We kicked the bucket when we moved to LA from Portland around 2014,” Feinstein laughed.

The current band formed in 2020 during the pandemic.

“From 2014 to 2020, I was dealing with addiction and struggling through that,” Feinstein admitted. “Then I met Tommy [Drinkard], and we started playing fiddle tunes and rebuilt it as Water Tower. We’re punk rock bluegrass—that’s our genre now. We were more traditional, and still do traditional, but we do a lot of punk rock

Live Music

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE

A rockin’ blues dance party at Niffy’s Merrimaker every first, third, and now fifth Wednesdays. The Blues Asylum house band welcomes local, visiting, and newcomers to the blues groove. Spirits, beer, and wine, with outside food welcome. Every other Wednesday, 7-10 p.m. Free. (805) 235-5223. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos.

EASTON EVERETT LIVE Hear guitarwoven neo folk pop, noteworthy singing and writing, easy to listen to, but also surprises. May 3 6-8 p.m. Art of the Vineyard, 840 13th St #A, Paso Robles, (805) 286-4976.

LISTENING AS RITUAL Group listening sessions with musician/musicologist Ben Gerstein. Explore remarkable

covers and work with a lot of punk artists. We’re playing the Vans Warped Tour this year, so we’re excited as the first bluegrass band to be doing that. It’s been cool switching lanes a little bit, creating our own lane, so to speak.”

Many of their songs examine addiction, such as “Take Me Back,” where Feinstein sings, “I want some dope/ I want some pills/ I know I can’t/ Cuz all that shit kills/ My friends they all died/ Tryin’ to fly back home.”

“Lose Everything” is also about drugs.

“Sittin’ on Top of the World” is about booze and lost love. They sound like a tight bluegrass band, but they have a punk ethos, and Feinstein’s songs are inspired by the streets.

“[The band’s songs] basically come from the addiction, the recovery, and being on the streets of Los Angeles, and we see a lot of addiction and a lot of people struggling out here,” he explained. “Me and Tommy brought the band to the street at the end of Highway 2, just down in Echo Park, and we write our songs on the street. ‘Take Me Back’ was written there on the off-ramp, ‘AMPM,’ ‘Skante Warrior,’ ‘Lose Everything’—they

recordings of world music, nature field recording, western classical and contemporary, and jazz, sharing and discussing inspiration and perspectives on the expressive power of peoples, cultures, animals and habitats through sonic experience. Every other Monday, 7-8:15 p.m. $10-$15 donation. (805) 305-1229. leftcoastartstudio.com/. Left Coast Art Studio, 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos.

THE MORRO BAY WHITE CAPS COMMUNITY BAND SPRING

PERFORMANCE Under the baton of Conductor Brenda Hascall, the Morro Bay White Caps Community Band will perform a variety of jazz, pop, and classical music. May 2 1-3 p.m. Free. (805) 459-9543. morrobaywhitecaps.com. Morro Bay High School, 235 Atascadero Rd., Morro Bay. OPEN MIC NIGHT Each Wednesday,

enjoy this Open Mic Night in the downstairs dining area. Grab some friends and show off your talents. Food and drink service will be available. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. Free. (805) 995-3883. schoonerscayucos.com. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

ACROSS AMERICA, OUR COUNTRY IN MUSIC Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S.A. through music with the Atascadero Community Band! Enjoy a free concert and refreshments. All donations will benefit SLO Street Outreach. May 3 , 3-5 p.m. Free. atascaderoband.org. Atascadero Bible Church, 6225 Atascadero Ave., Atascadero, 805) 466-2051.

BOYS OF SUMMER: A TRIBUTE TO THE EAGLES FRIDAY NIGHT SHOW May 8

were all written there, and so we’re talking about our experiences, that dark underbelly of Southern California, and the people who we meet and their experiences, as well as going through it ourselves.”

These cautionary tales may seem out of place in bluegrass, but if you consider all the bluegrass murder ballads, Water Tower’s songs fit right in. And parents, don’t fret. Parkfield is very family friendly, and the festival has amazing kids programming.

“Wow, the vibe at Parkfield, it’s so special,” Feinstein explained. “It’s people coming together through music. There’s barbecuing, people are cooking for each other.

People meeting for the first time in the morning and feeding each other. I’ve seen people pick up their first instrument at Parkfield. It’s a great place to come and get a lesson from somebody. Last time [band member] Taylor [Estes] was just teaching people fiddle tunes. We meet around tunes, so it’s about community, and it’s about celebrating this beautiful space to look at the mountains and play music, you know?”

Water Tower will be camping the whole weekend, and Feinstein also mentioned the local café.

“The nice thing is they have a bar/ restaurant right there called the Parkfield Café. They have amazing food there and they have late night café shows, which we’re going to be doing one of. After the festival closes down on the main stage, people head to the café, get food and beer. It’s nice to have that at the center of everything.”

Water Tower will play three times at the festival: onstage, at a barn dance, and during late-night show in the café. Times and days were TBD at the time of our interview. Your best bet is to visit parkfieldbluegrass.org and get the lowdown.

7-10 p.m. $28.62. my805tix.com. The Pour House, 525 Pine St., Paso Robles.

CUESTA CONCORD CHORUS: “PIANO PALOOZA!” The Cuesta Concord Chorus and Orchestra present a concert featuring Beethoven’s “Choral Fantasy” and Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” with pianists Susan Davies and Ryan Hartzell. May 3 3 p.m. $22. (805) 546-3198. Templeton Performing Arts Center, 1200 S. Main St., Templeton.

DARK STAR HAPPY HOUR, OPEN MIC AND KARAOKE NIGHT Chill out at Dark Star’s happy hour, and enjoy burgers, karaoke, and open mic nigh. Wine by the glass will be available for $8. Fridays, 4-8 p.m. Free. (805) 237-2389. darkstarcellars. com/. Dark Star Cellars, 2985 Anderson Rd., Paso Robles.

EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett is a writer and performer of guitar-woven

Other performers include The Hayde Bluegrass Orchestra (from Norway), Vickie Vaughn Band, Damn Tall Buildings, Shelby Means, Dave Stamey, and Deep Thicket Dwellers. Local faves like The SLO County Stumblers, Amber Cross, The Kings River Boys, and Critical Grass will also be there.

You can also take walking tours of the San Andreas Fault led by a USGS geologist Julian Lozos.

Country at the beach

Good Vibez and Otter Productions present Billy Currington at the Avila Beach Golf Resort on Thursday, May 7 (doors at 4 p.m.; all ages; $74.41 general to $203.10 Beach Balcony at tixr.com).

Country music will meet coastal vibes when the band behind hits like “People Are Crazy,” “Good Directions,” “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right,” “Do I Make You Wanna,” “We Are Tonight,” and more plays with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop.

For nearly two decades, the Georgia native has been at the top of the country charts,

music in distinctive stylistic shapes. It is music that is easy to listen to but also surprises. April 30 5-7 p.m. Primal House, 3330 Ramada Dr, Paso Robles, (805) 202-4700.

FIRST THURSDAYS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Hear B & The Hive and enjoy food by Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill and wines by the glass or bottle. May 7, 4-7 p.m. Free. (805) 226-2034. jdusiwines. com. J Dusi Wines, 1401 Hwy. 46 West, Paso Robles.

FRIDAY NIGHT DJ Weekly DJ series, with a different DJ every Friday. Presented by friends at Traffic Record store in Atascadero. Come listen, dance, drink, and unwind every Friday. All ages event; no cover charge. Fridays, 7-10 p.m. (805) 460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden.com.

Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

LIVE AT DARK STAR: GRATEFUL TO THE CORE BAND Join for wine tasting and live music with Grateful To The Core, a high-energy Grateful Dead tribute band. May 2 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 237-2389. darkstarcellars.com. Dark Star Cellars, 2985 Anderson Rd., Paso Robles. LIVE MUSIC WITH DAVE TATE

Sometimes high and soaring, sometimes hushed and inviting, Dave Tate’s powerful voice weaves poetic lyrics through soundscapes of finger-style guitar and acoustic rhythms. May 3 3-6 p.m. $25. (805) 237-1245. McPrice Myers Wine Company, 3525 Adelaida Rd., Paso Robles, mcpricemyers.com.

SINGING HANDS CHILDREN’S CHOIR

A unique performing arts group that performs across the state for deaf

LIVE

and he recently released some new singles, “Everything Is Changing,” “City Don’t,” and “Anchor Man.” The man knows his way around a country song.

Country and folk pop

Numbskull and Good Medicine present the Randy Rogers Band at BarrelHouse Amphitheatre on Saturday, May 2 (doors at 6 p.m.; all ages; $38.83 at goodmedicinepresents.com).

The Texas country rockers have nine studio albums, global streaming numbers in the hundreds of millions, and they’ve charted seven singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, five Top 10 albums on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, and numerous Texas Country Radio chart No. 1s. Founded in San Marcos, the band also some great musicians: Geoffrey Hill (guitar), Jon Richardson aka Johnny Chops (bass guitar), Brady Black (fiddle), Les Lawless (drums), and Todd Stewart (guitar, fiddle,

festivals, service organizations, churches, fairs, and other outlets. New members always welcome. Registration open weekly. Mondays, 5-6:30 p.m. $45 tuition per month. singinghandschildrenschoir. com/. Singing Hands Children’s Choir and Performing Arts, 1413 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

SOLEFFECT AT CALIFORNIA COAST

BEER Kick off your weekend with an afternoon of great beer and live music with Sōleffect at California Coast Beer Company. May 1 , 6-9 p.m. California Coast Beer Company, 1346 Railroad St., Paso Robles, calcoastbeer.com/.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

THE BUNKER SLO PRESENTS: LIVE

MUSIC WITH ASHER WHITE AND SPECIAL GUESTS Hear Asher White live, with special guests Tiny Plastic Everything and Slutboy. May 8 6-10 p.m. $17.91. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY GUITAR STUDENT RECITAL

Enjoy this free recital presented by Cal Poly Music Department student guitarists. May 8 7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/free/#guitar.

Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

CUESTA CHOIRS CONCERT: “THE ROAD HOME” Join for an unforgettable evening

mandolin, keyboards).

“Just like any other relationship, you have to pick your battles and have respect for each other,” Rogers said in press materials. “None of us know how to do anything else. This is our livelihood. It’s how we take care of our families. Years ago, when we were really struggling and wondering how we were going to make it, there were some deep and emotional conversations that we all had with each other about if this is really what we all wanted and the decision was made a long time ago. The answer was yes then, and the answer is still yes now. It’s something we all believe in. This is our life’s work.”

Good Medicine, Numbskull, and KCBX present Glen Phillips at The Siren on Thursday, May 7 (7 p.m.; 21-and-older; $35.23 at goodmedicinepresents.com).

Phillips is, of course, the lead singer and main songwriter of the popular Santa Barbarabased folk pop act Toad the Wet Sprocket, with hits including “All I Want,” “Walk on the Ocean,” “Fall Down,” and others. His solo work is also fantastic with songs like “Duck

as the Cuesta Chamber Singers and Voce explore the powerful connection between music, memory, and the places we belong. May 1 , 7:30 p.m. $10-$18. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

NIC GERPE: CONTEMPORARY MUSIC FOR SOLO PIANO Nic Gerpe will present a range of colorful and evocative pieces which explore the many aspects and connotations of islands. May 5 , 7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 756-4849. music.calpoly. edu/calendar/special/#gerpe. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

SLO SYMPHONY PRESENTS MYSTIQUE & WONDER Pianist Ilya Yakushev returns with Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, along with Rimsky Korsakov Scheherazade and Berlioz Roman Carnival Overture. May 2 3 p.m. $12-$92. (805) 543-3533. slosymphony. org/calendar-2025-2026. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. THE BUNKER SLO PRESENTS: LIVE MUSIC WITH ASHER WHITE & SPECIAL GUESTS Enjoy live music with Asher White and special guests Tiny Plastic Everything and Slutboy. May 8 6-10 p.m. $17.91. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AN EVENING WITH JIM MESSINA An

undisputed expert in the fine art of making hit music, Jim Messina’s legacy of musical genius spans five decades a three supergroups. May 7, 7:30 p.m. $49-$79. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly event with barbecue offerings and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, (805) 925-3500.

THE LOUNGE AT BESO An upscale afterhours nightclub experience. With limited capacity and a dress code. For ages 21 and over. Fridays, 10 p.m. my805tix.com. Beso Cocina, 1050 Willow Road, Nipomo. MOTHER’S DAY MARIACHI FESTIVAL: LEYENDAS DEL MARIACHI Celebrating all mothers on their special weekend with a spectacular Saturday night concert featuring the masters of mariachi music Leyendas del Mariachi. May 9 7:30-9:30 p.m. $50-$98. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS AT THE COPACABANA! SENIOR PROM Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens presents a “At the Copacabana” dance, with music by the Riptide Big Band and vocalists. May 3 , 1:30-4 p.m. Free. (775)

and Cover,” “Cleareyed,” and “Going Back There Some Day.”

“I’ll be spending this year writing new material for both Toad and solo projects,” he said in press materials. “There’s also an acoustic Toad album coming out, as well as a side project solo collection of songs. Between that and touring, I’ll be plenty busy.”

Garrison Starr opens.

Also at The Siren … Dynamic Central Coast rock act Electric Lavender Train plays on Friday, May 1 (7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; free). Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Rachel Santa Cruz and guitar wiz Hunter Takao Nakazono, with a rocksteady rhythm section featuring Geert de Lange (bass) and Paul Della Pelle (drums), it’s a local supergroup.

excellent rock and country covers from this tight quintet.

Candy O (The Ultimate Tribute to The Cars and Ric Ocasek) returns on Saturday, May 2 (8 p.m.; 21-and-older; $23.77 at tixr. com). If you love The Cars, don’t miss it.

Ha ha and yeehaw

Sound out!

Send

Back Pages Band plays on Saturday, May 2 (2 to 5 p.m.; 21-and-older; free). Expect

813-5186. RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria. HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

LIVE JAZZ SATURDAYS Enjoy live jazz, featuring swing jazz guitarist Edwin Hite. May 2 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0860. instagram.com/ Crumblescafeandbakeshop. Crumbles Cafe & Bake Shop, 1635 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.

LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR

Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 6235129, stellerscellar.com.

MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

Fremont Theater and Good Vibez has some comedy and country coming your way starting with stand-up comedian Lucas Zelnick on Friday, May 1 (doors at 7, show at 8 p.m.; all ages; $29.84 to $35.50 at prekindle. com). The NYC joker has accumulated 1 million followers and 500 million views across social media. “For no reason at all, Lucas also holds an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business,” his bio explains. Television personality, podcast host, and activist Jonathan Van Ness performs on his

STARKEY continued page 28

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY

Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic. com/Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria.

SIPS FOR STRINGS: SANTA MARIA

PHILHARMONIC GALA Celebrate classical music at Presqu’ile Winery, while helping the Santa Maria Philharmonic stay live and local. Enjoy an evening of wonderful music and good company. May 1 6-9:30 p.m. $125. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presquile Dr, Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

KARAOKE AT COLD COAST BREWING

CO. Pick out a song, bring your friends, and get ready to perform. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 8190723, coldcoastbrewing.com.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

AN ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH RYAN

BINGHAM Join us for a special night of music, heritage, and generosity

- benefiting Los Adobes De Los Rancheros and Solvang Theaterfest. April 30, 8-10 p.m. $275. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest.org/show-listing. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

GAINEY VINEYARD’S CONCERTS IN THE VINES PRESENTS FLAMENCO IN THE VINES Experience an unforgettable evening of fine wine and fiery flamenco beneath the full moon. Renowned guitarist Tony Ybarra will be accompanied by dynamic professional flamenco dancers. May 2 6-9 p.m. $50-$75. (805) 688-0558. shop.gaineyvineyard.com. Gainey Estate Vineyard, 3950 Hwy 246, Santa Ynez.

LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.

VOICES OF THE VALLEY We are honored to announce Voices of the Valley, a onenight-only benefit concert supporting three cornerstone arts organizations that enrich the cultural life. May 8 , 7-9 p.m. $300. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest. org/show-listing. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang. WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com. ∆

College banger

Hot and Healed Comedy Tour on Saturday, May 2 (doors at 7, show at 8 p.m.; 18-andolder; $50.96 to $81.86 at prekindle.com). He stars on Netflix’s Emmy Award-winning reboot series Queer Eye, and he hosts the popular podcast, Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness

Country singer-songwriter Kameron Marlowe plays on Thursday, May 7 (doors at 7, show at 8 p.m.; all ages; $40.14 general or $154.73 VIP meet-and-greet at prekindle. com). “The Kannapolis, North Carolina native fell in love with country music on an old FM radio while hunting and fishing with his grandpa, raised on Keith Whitley, Brooks & Dunn, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Ray Charles,” his bio explains.

Shabang Festival returns to Dairy Creek Golf Course on Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3—with Grammy-nominated headliner Chris Lake and so many other acts I’ll let you go to shabangslo.com to read about them and get tickets. Lake is a progressive and tech house DJ and producer who first became known in 2006 and the release of his monster hit single, “Changes.” This music, arts, and community fest is a favorite among the college crowd. Couldn’t make it to Coachella? This is as close as we get on the Central Coast. ∆

Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

Flavor

Saddle up

Central Coast newcomer Michael Freeman helms an ambitious culinary transformation at Paso Robles Inn

Born in Jackson, Michigan, and raised in Sarasota, Florida, renowned East Coast chef Michael Freeman is a year deep in helping to reimagine a trio of dining venues here in the West.

In partnership with chef Charlie Palmer, of Healdsburg, and benefiting from a $13 million investment from Denver-based hotel management company Peregrine Hospitality, Paso Robles Inn is aiming to become a culinary hot spot in San Luis Obispo County’s wine capital.

The hotel unveiled Cattlemen’s Bar in February and is eyeing a summer completion date for Salina Rooftop, crowning its sister property The Piccolo, followed by the anticipated fall debut of The Pass by Charlie Palmer.

“Chef Michael is a highly talented culinarian with a deep commitment to delivering exceptional cuisine for our guests, customers, and the local community,” said Pismo Beach’s David Morneau, area general manager for Peregrine’s SLO County hotels.

Historic meets haute

Saunter into Paso Robles Inn’s Cattlemen’s Bar, located at 1103 Spring St. in downtown Paso. Hours are 4 to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 4 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Visit pasoroblesinn.com for more information and to track progress on future restaurants The Pass by Charlie Palmer and Salina Rooftop at The Piccolo, the Inn’s sister property at 600 12th St.

“I greatly admire his dedication to excellence and positioning our new restaurants at the center of the Paso Robles culinary scene.

“The launch of Cattlemen’s, Salina, and The Pass represents the next critical step in establishing Paso Robles Inn as a true centerpiece of the city. Equally important is our partnership with chef Charlie Palmer, which will play a pivotal role in restoring the inn to its storied grandeur while elevating the overall food and beverage experience in Paso Robles. We already have world-class wines. Now we are building a world-class lodging and dining destination to match.”

Freeman traversed the country and became the inn’s culinary director in April 2025 after Palmer, his longtime associate and mentor, dangled the opportunity, and now calls Paso home.

“There is still a lot of the area I have yet to explore, but it is beautiful here, people are so friendly, and it has been a welcome change of pace,” he said.

A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Orlando with more than 20 years of industry experience, Freeman most recently held leadership roles at Washington, D.C.’s Charlie Palmer Steak and boutique hotels The Morrow, Line D.C., and Eaton D.C., “where my work at American Son helped retain a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction,” he said.

Freeman first met Palmer as a young line cook at his Michelin-starred Aureole restaurant in New York City before landing the position of executive chef at his Washington, D.C., steakhouse.

“When Charlie brought up the opportunity to move to Paso and build something here, it seemed like an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” Freeman

STAY TUNED The Pass by Charlie Palmer will debut this fall, replacing Paso Robles Inn’s iconic The Steakhouse, established in 1964.

continued. “Charlie and the Charlie Palmer Collective [comprising nine restaurants nationwide] are the driving force of the exciting changes here at the Paso Robles Inn. The operations team and I here work in tandem with Charlie Palmer Collective to curate the food and beverage experiences at the Paso Robles Inn.”

Cattlemen’s menu is heavy on burgers and steaks, but vegetarians will appreciate salad options and a wild mushroom and fontina cheese melt.

Bar bites range from savory pulled pork croquettes, tri-tip skewers, chili and chicken drumsticks to shrimp ceviche and oysters.

Save room for decadent chocolate peanut butter pie or crisp apple hand pie.

Freeman describes his culinary style as “progressive rustic American.”

“My inspiration has always come from meals I had as a child, spending time in the kitchen with family and what seasonal ingredients are freshest,” he continued. “Beautiful ingredients are an inspiration by themselves and, fortunately, we are surrounded by an abundance of them here on the Central

Coast. I find the best meals are ones that feel nostalgic but new at the same time.”

Freeman sources ingredients from an evolving roster of local farmers, fishers, and ranchers, with a hearty dose of seasonal and themed specials.

On Mondays, take advantage of Burger Night, featuring The Stockman, a houseground, dry-aged beef burger, along with a beer for $24.

On the second Tuesday of each month, Cattlemen’s offers Paso Night, with live music and a $29 prime-rib special.

The bar also dedicates monthly menu items to Women of the West, spotlighting women making waves in the Central Coast’s agriculture, ranching, and winemaking communities and donating a percentage of proceeds to the honoree’s charity of choice.

Eclipsing the dinner menu in size is a beverage lineup that offers primarily local wines, draft and bottled beer, nonalcoholic options, and cocktails to suit every whim.

Intriguing options range from the YellowBellied (lemon) Drop to a bourbon-espresso, Last Call on the Range.

Later this year the inn will debut Salina Rooftop, formerly Tetto Rooftop Bar, followed by The Pass, a modern tavern replacing The Steakhouse. The team also plans to deliver elevated banquet services for events ranging from small weddings to large corporate retreats. All dining venues will undergo extensive renovation, but with a careful eye to preserving the ranching character and history of the inn—originally erected in 1889, rebuilt in 1942 after a fire spared only its grand ballroom building, and once called El Paso De Robles Hotel.

“The focus here at Paso Robles Inn is to really progress the hospitality and dining experience of Paso as a whole by anchoring it in the culture, community, history, and agricultural bounty that is Paso,” Freeman said. Δ

Flavor writer Cherish Whyte capped her meal with Cattlemen’s crazy-delicious chocolate peanut butter pie. She’ll be recovering from a food coma at cwhyte@newtimesslo.com.

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2016 VOLVO V60 T-5 PLATINUM WAGON

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2017 LANDROVER RANGE ROVER 4WD

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2018 MERCEDES GLE 350 SPORT

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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2026-0536 (03/11/2026)

New Filing The following person is doing business as: ALL IN JUNK REMOVAL, 326 Creekview Way, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420. San Luis Obispo County. Nicholas Brent Allinder (326 Creekview Way, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420). This business is conducted by An Individual /s/ Nicholas Brent Allinder. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 03-11-26. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, A. Schultz, Deputy. Exp. 03-11-31. April 23, 30, May 7, & 14, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2026-0732 (N/A)

New Filing

The following person is doing business as WILD PINTOS CO., 4310 N River Rd., Paso Robles, CA 93446. San Luis Obispo County. Shauna Lee Howard (4310 N River Rd., Paso Robles, CA 93446). This business is conducted by An Individual /s/ Shauna Lee Howard. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 04-02-2026. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, A. Trujillo, Deputy. Exp. 04-022031. April 9, 16, 23, & 30, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2026-0421 (07/29/1952)

New Filing

The following person is doing business as MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION OF SAN LUIS OBISPO, SAN LUIS OBISPO MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION, SLOMA, SLO MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405. San Luis Obispo County. Jason Sisk-Provencio (11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405). This business is conducted by An Unincorporated Association Other Than A Partnership /s/ Jason Sisk-Provencio, Secretary. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 02-25-2026. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, M. Maltby, Deputy. Exp. 02-252031. April 9, 16, 23, & 30, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2026-0512 (N/A)

New Filing

The following person is doing business as 3LEFT TATTOOS, 4070 West St., Cambria, CA 93428. San Luis Obispo County. Carlton T Rodgers (2170 Burton Dr., Cambria, CA 93428). This business is conducted by An Individual /s/ Carlton T. Rodgers. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 03-09-2026. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk, A. Lomeli, Deputy. Exp. 03-092031. April 16, 23, 30, & May 7, 2026

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2026-0534 (06/26/2025)

New Filing

The following person is doing business as RADIANT RITUALS TANNING, 110 Mary Ave., Suite 6, Nipomo, CA 93444. San Luis Obispo County. Radiant Rituals Tanning LLC (110 Mary Ave., Suite 6, Nipomo, CA 93444). This business is conducted by A CA Limited Liability Company /s/ Radiant Rituals Tanning LLC, Lauren Mayor, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis

FICTITIOUS

APRIL 21, 2026 COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING BRIEF

Items 1-32: Consent Agenda & Ordinance (Ord) No. 3590 & Resolution (Res) Nos. 2026-081 thru 2026-092 – APPROVED AS AMENDED.

Item 33: Public Comment Period – Items not on the agenda: V. Trenev & C. Thorton: spoke - NO ACTION TAKEN.

Item 34: MOU w/ the Golden State Finance Authority (GSFA) and the Co.

to provide cost reimbursement for participation in a regional Jail Medical Care Feasibility Study focused on evaluating long-term, sustainable alternatives for jail medical service delivery; authorizes the Chief Executive Officer/designee to sign & execute the MOU & authorizes a $91,494.91 budget adjustment – APPROVED.

Item 35: Introduction of ordinances to amend the Co. Code to restructure the Health Agency & establish the Dept. of Behavioral Health & the Dept. of Public Health, effective 7/1/26 & create dept. head positions. Hearing set for 5/5/26 – APPROVED

Item 36: Appeal Hearing re: Res. 2026093, denying the appeal by P. McGibney, Los Osos Sustainability Group, upholding the decision of the Planning Dept. Hearing Officer to adopt the Mitigated Negative Declaration (SCH# 2023100208) & approve a Minor Use Permit / Coastal Development Permit (C-DRC2021-00026) to allow for the construction of a single-family residence at Covey Lane, Los Osos (APN: 074-325-067)ADOPTED

Item 37: Closed Session: Anticipated Litigation: Significant exposure to litigation - potential cases: 1. Initiation of litigation - potential cases: 1. Facts/Circumstances: Substandard building conditions at 707 Camino Caballo, Nipomo, CA. Existing Litigation: SLO Coastkeeper, et. al. v. Co. of SLO, U.S. District Court, Central District of CA, Western Division, Case No. 2:24-CV-06854-SPG-ASx; Friends of Oceano Dunes, Inc. v. CA Dept. of Parks & Rec, et al., SLO Co. Superior Court Case No. 21CV0275. Conference w/ Labor Negotiator re: employee organizations: SLOPA; SLOCEA-T&C; DCCA; Sheriffs’ Mgmt; SLOCPPOA; DSA; DAIA; SLOCPMPOA; SLOCEA – PSSC; Unrepresented Mgmt & Confidential Employees; SDSA; UDWA. Open Session: Report out – 5-0 vote, the Board authorized the county to initiate litigation re: nuisance abatement at 707 Camino Caballo, Nipomo CA.

Item 38: Report on the Co. housing policy progress updates – REC’D & FILED.

Item 39: Study session to consider the Study Scope options for Housing Element Implementation Phase 2 (Implementation Action 7 to streamline housing permitting and Implementation Action 8 to expand housing opportunity areas) – APPROVED W/ DIRECTION PROVIDED TO STAFF.

Item 40: Board Member comments and reports on meetings: Supervisor Ortiz-Legg thanks Planning & Building Department & community members that attended the meeting; announces an opening on First 5 for an at large position, overseeing for children 5 & under. Chairperson Paulding: announces a community meeting re: the county’s regional desalinization initiative - NO ACTION TAKEN.

Meeting adjourned.

For meeting details, view meeting videos at: https://www.slocounty. ca.gov/Departments/Administrative-Office/Clerk-of-the-Board/Clerk-ofthe-Board-Services/Board-of-Supervisors-Meetings-and-Agendas.aspx

Matthew P. Pontes, Chief Executive Officer & Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of Supervisors

By: Annette Ramirez, Deputy Clerk of the Board of SupervisorsApril 30, 2026

CITY COUNCIL

CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Arroyo Grande City Council will conduct a public hearing in the Arroyo Grande City Council Chambers located at 215 E. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 on TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter, to consider the following item: Consideration of Architectural Review 25-004 and Finding That This Action Is Exempt From Review Under The California Environmental Quality Act Pursuant To State Guidelines Section 15301; New Wall Mural; Location – 227 E. Branch Street; Applicant – Village Creative. The City Council will consider a proposal to paint a new wall mural at 227 E. Branch Street.

In compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Community Development Department has determined that the painting of a mural is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) under the Class 1 exemption, which applies to the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features where the project involves negligible or no expansion of existing or former use. (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15301.) None of the exceptions to the Class 1 exemption apply because: the location of the project will not result in any significant environmental impacts; the project does not create any cumulative environmental impacts; the project does not impact or damage any scenic resources; the project is not located on a hazardous waste site; and the project does not adversely affect any historic resources. This City Council meeting is being conducted in a hybrid in-person/virtual format. During the public hearing, public comment will be limited to three (3) minutes per speaker, pursuant to current meeting procedure. Please visit the link below to join the Zoom Meeting: https://arroyogrande-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ NRsyFrUIQ_6179_iBTyDVA

The City Council may also discuss other hearings or business items before or after the item listed above. If you challenge the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing. Failure of any person to receive the notice shall not constitute grounds for any court to invalidate the action of the legislative body for which the notice was given.

Documents related to the project are available in the Community Development Department located at 300 E. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande. The Agenda and reports are posted online at www.arroyogrande.org 72 hours prior to the meeting. Please call (805) 473-5420 for more information. The City Council meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and streamed live on the City’s YouTube Channel. Jessica Matson, City Clerk April 30, 2026

CITY OF GROVER BEACH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Grover Beach will conduct a Public Hearing at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter, on Monday, May 11, 2026 in City Hall, Council Chambers, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA to consider the following item:

SUBJECT:

Second Reading and Adoption of an Ordinance to Amend Chapter 119 (Fireworks) of Title XI (Business Relations) of the Grover Beach Municipal Code to Regulate Social Hosts Allowing Illegal Fireworks

Where You Come In:

Any member of the public may be heard on the item described in this notice by calling (805) 321-6639 during the meeting or submit written comments to the City Clerk prior to the meeting by mail to: City Clerk’s Office, 154 South Eighth Street, Grover Beach, CA 93433 or by email to gbadmin@groverbeach.org, or by appearing in person at the City Council meeting. If you require special accommodations to participate in the public hearing, please contact the City Clerk’s office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting by calling (805) 473-4567.

For More Information:

If you have any questions or would like more information regarding the item(s) described in this notice, please contact: Assistant City Manager Kristin Eriksson by telephone at (805) 473-4567 or send an e-mail to gbadmin@groverbeach.org

The City Council may also discuss other hearings or items of business at this meeting. The complete meeting agenda and copy of the staff report on the above item will be posted on the City website at www.groverbeach.org. Live broadcasts of City Council meetings may be seen on cable television Channel 20, as well as over the Internet at www.groverbeach.org (click on the icon “Government Access Local Channel 20” and then “Channel 20”).

If you challenge the nature of the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the Public Hearing(s) described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to, the Public Hearing (Govt. Code Sec 65009).

WENDI B. SIMS, CITY CLERK

Dated: Thursday, April 29, 2026 April 30, 2026

CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE CITY COUNCIL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Arroyo Grande City Council will conduct a hearing in the Arroyo Grande City Council Chambers located at 215 E. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 on TUESDAY, MAY 12, 20265, at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter, to consider the following item:

Consideration of an Update to the User Fees Set Forth in the Comprehensive Fee Schedule. The City Council will conduct a hearing to update user fees for the costs associated with Administrative Fee for Retirees Benefits, Tree Permit Application, and 7 Recreation Services Fees. The remainder of the user fees will be adjusted in accordance with the latest annual increase to the Consumer Price Index.

The Hearing to update User Fees set forth in the Comprehensive Fee Schedule is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) because it has no potential to result in either a direct, or reasonably foreseeable indirect, physical change in the environment. (State CEQA Guidelines, §§ 15060 (c)(2) and (3), 15378.)

This City Council meeting is being conducted in a hybrid in-person/virtual format. During the hearing, public comment will be limited to three (3) minutes per speaker, pursuant to current meeting procedure.

The City Council may also discuss other hearings or business items before or after the item listed above. If you challenge the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing. Failure of any person to receive the notice shall not constitute grounds for any court to invalidate the action of the legislative body for which the notice was given.

Documents related to the project are available in the Community Development Department located at 300 E. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande. The Agenda and reports are posted online at www.arroyogrande.org 72 hours prior to the meeting. Please call (805) 473-5420 for more information. The City Council meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and streamed live on the City’s Website

Jessica Matson, City Clerk April 30, 2026

ADMINISTRATIVE

The City of San Luis Obispo’s Zoning Hearing Officer will hold a public hearing at 2:30 p.m. or later on Monday, May 11, 2026, in Conference Room 1, at 919 Palm Street, to consider the following: 1. 3165 Broad St. USE-0151-2026; Request for a Minor Use Permit to operate a hair salon (personal services) within an existing tenant space in the Crossroad Commercial Center Planned Development. This project is categorically exempt from environmental (CEQA) review; C-S-PD Zone; Honey Blowout Bar, applicant. (Eva Wynn)

PLEASE NOTE: Any court challenge to the actions taken on these public hearing items may be limited to considering only those issues raised at the public hearing described in this notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City of San Luis Obispo at, or prior to, the public hearing.

Arpil 30, 2026

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, the Pismo Beach City Council will hold a public hearing in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, for the following purpose: PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA:

Address: Citywide

Applicant: City of Pismo Beach

Project #: P18-000116

Description: General Plan / Local Coastal Program (GP/ LCP) Coastal Land Use Plan (LUP) Update project and Final Environmental Impact Report, including Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations. The City is updating the Introduction, Land Use Element, Conservation & Open Space Element, Noise Element, Circulation Element, and Glossary of the General Plan/ Local Coastal Program Coastal Land Use Plan (GP/LUP). The Planning Commission previously held a public hearing on July 25, 2023 and August 22, 2023 and recommended adoption to the City Council of the GP/LCP. Since 2023, the GP/ LCP Update project has been revised to exclude update of the City’s Safety Element and proposes new other various policy and graphic edits, legislative updates, and miscellaneous edits.

The project is within the Coastal Zone and requires certification of the LCP by the California Coastal Commission. This agenda item was previously heard by the Planning Commission on December 9, 2025, January 13, 2026, March 24, 2026, and April 28, 2026. At the March 24, 2026 hearing, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution PC-R-2026-005 and on April 28, 2026 adopted Resolution PC-R-2026-009 recommending to the City Council GP/ LUP adoption and EIR certification, including Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations.

Details about ways to participate in this hearing will be provided on the agenda posted for the meeting online at pismobeach.org/ agenda, and on the bulletin board at City Hall. The agenda will be posted in the afternoon of May 14, 2026.

Environmental Review

In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an Environmental Impact Report was previously prepared for the project which provided information regarding the potential environmental impacts of the project and was circulated through the State Clearinghouse for a review period of February 1, 2022 through March 18, 2022 (SCH#: 2021010158). As a result of the proposed changes to the GP/LCP, a Recirculated Draft EIR was prepared to reflect the proposed changes and was recirculated for a 62-day public review and comment period between December 11, 2025 and February 11, 2026 in accordance with State CEQA Guidelines.

You have a right to comment on these projects and their effect on our community. Interested persons are invited to participate in the hearing or otherwise express their views and opinions regarding the proposed projects. Emailed comments may be submitted to citycouncil@pismobeach.org; staff cannot guarantee that emailed comments submitted after the start of the meeting will be given full consideration before action is taken. Written comments may be delivered or mailed to the City Clerk’s Office at 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449, prior to the meeting, or hand-delivered during the meeting no later than the comment period for this item. Oral comment may be provided prior to the meeting by calling 805-773-7005 and leaving a voice message. Please state and spell your name, and identify your item of interest. Oral comment may also be made during the meeting by attending the meeting in person in the Council Chamber at City Hall. Please refer to the agenda for this meeting for specific instructions for participation.

Staff reports, plans and other information related to these projects are available for public review from the City Clerk’s Office, by emailing City Clerk Erica Inderlied at einderlied@ pismobeach.org. The meeting agenda and staff report will be available no later than the Thursday before the meeting and may be obtained upon request by mail or by visiting www. pismobeach.org/agenda. The Council meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and streamed on the City’s website.

PLEASE NOTE:

If you challenge the action taken on this item in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Pismo Beach at, or prior to, the public hearing.

For further information, please contact Erica Inderlied, City Clerk, at einderlied@pismobeach.org or 805-773-7003.

Erica Inderlied City Clerk April 30, 2026

Applications to make minor changes to the properties at the addresses listed below have been received by the City.

1. 2010 Parker St. DIR-0163-2026; Request for a permit to allow tables and chairs in the public right-of-way to serve the Nautical Bean café/restaurant. This project is categorically exempt from environmental (CEQA) review; C-S-MU Zone; Brett Jones, applicant. (Eva Wynn)

2. 892 Foothill Blvd. ARCH-0063-2026; Request for minor development review of exterior improvements to a restaurant space in the University Square shopping center. The project proposes to raise a portion of the façade 1’-6” from the existing height. This project is categorically exempt from environmental (CEQA) review; C-R-S Zone; Kim De Guzman, applicant. (Eva Wynn)

3. State Route 1, Highland Drive, and Ferrini Road Intersection. DIR-0117-2026; Request to perform work at night for a maximum of sixty (60) nights between June 28, 2026 to September 9, 2026, from the hours of 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. to widen eastbound Highland Dr. between Ferini Rd. and State Route 1 to add a bike lane, right turn only hand into the existing roadway, traffic signal upgrades, a guardrail, and flashing beacon improvements. This project is categorically exempt from environmental review (CEQA); R-2-S Zone; Caltrans, applicant. (Jacob Hughes)

4. Los Osos Valley Rd from Madonna Rd to Auto Park Wy. DIR0213-2026; Request to perform work at night for a maximum of three (3) nights between May 11, 2026 to June 15, 2026, from the hours of 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. to trim trees along medians and parkways . This project is categorically exempt from environmental review (CEQA); C-R, C-R-SF, C-S-PD, R-3-PD, PF, C/OS-SP Zones; City of SLO, applicant. (Naomi Wilbur)

5. 32 Highland Dr. ARCH-0038-2026; Request for minor development review for the partial demolition, remodel, and new additions to an existing single-family residence on a lot subject to Hillside Development Standards with an average cross slope greater than 16%. The site includes an existing ADU and proposed JADU which are not subject to discretionary review. The project is categorically exempt from environmental (CEQA) review; R-1 Zone; Studio Prime Architecture, applicant. (Eva Wynn)

The Community Development Director will either approve or deny these applications no sooner than May 11, 2026.

The Director’s decision may be appealed, and must be filed with the appropriate appeal fee within 10 days of the Director’s action. For more information, contact the City of San Luis Obispo Community Development Department, 919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, by phone (805) 781-7170 or email planning@slocity.org. April 30, 2026

The San Luis Obispo Planning Commission will hold a Regular Meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. Meetings may be viewed on Government Access Channel 20 or streamed live from the City’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/ CityofSanLuisObispo. Public comment, prior to the start of the meeting, may be submitted in writing via U.S. Mail delivered to the City Clerk’s Office at 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 or by email to advisorybodies@ slocity.org.

CONSENT ITEMS:

• Review of a General Plan Conformity Report for the acquisition of property by the City of San Luis Obispo for community-serving use. The proposal is not a project subject to environmental review (CEQA Guidelines § 15378). Project Address: 975 Broad Street; Case #: GENP-0248-2026; Zone: R-3-H; City of San Luis Obispo, Applicant.

Contact: Ivana Gomez – (805) 781-7147 – igomez@slocity.org

PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS:

• Review of a Conditional Use Permit request for a 24-hour YMCA Gym, categorized as a large-scale commercial recreation use, in the Public Facilities zone. This project is categorically exempt from environmental review (CEQA); Project Address: 1020 Southwood Drive; Case #: USE-08352025; Zone: PF; Applicant name, Channel Island YMCA and SLO YMCA.

Contact: Mallory Patino – (805) 783-7704 – mpatino@slocity.org

The Planning Commission may also discuss other hearing or business items before or after the item(s) listed above. If you challenge the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing.

Report(s) are typically available six days in advance of the meeting and can be viewed on the City’s website, under the Public Meeting Agendas web page: https://www.slocity.org/ government/mayor-and-city-council/agendas-and-minutes. Please call The Community Development Department at (805) 781-7170 for more information, or to request an agenda report. The Planning Commission meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and live streaming on the City’s YouTube channel www.youtube.com/CityofSanLuisObispo.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to consider amending the Planning and Building Fees in the County Schedule “B” for Fiscal Year 2026-27 Ordinance. The hearing will be held at the Board of Supervisors Chambers, County Government Center, 1055 Monterey Street, in San Luis Obispo.

Recommended amendments include increases, decreases, new, and deleted fees. Schedule B Fee amendments would become effective July 1, 2026.

Any person interested in expressing their views regarding the proposed amendments to the Fee Schedule may do so at the hearing. To determine specific placement of this item on the Board of Supervisors Agenda and to review the fee schedule amendments, go to the County’s website at www.slocounty.ca.gov on the Wednesday before the scheduled hearing date.

The fee schedule amendments may also be reviewed at the: County Government Center Administrative Office, Room D430 1055 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408 (805) 781-5011

DATED: April 21, 2026

Matthew P Pontes, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board

By: /s/ Niki Martin

Deputy Clerk of the Board

April 23 & 30, 2026

CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW BOARD NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING

The Administrative Review Board of the City of San Luis Obispo, California, invites all interested persons to attend a Special Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. held in the Council Hearing Room at City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. Public comment, prior to the start of the meeting, may be submitted in writing via U.S. Mail delivered to the City Clerk’s Office at 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 or by email to advisorybodies@slocity.org.

This Special Meeting will consist of the election of the Chair and Vice Chair of the Board.

The full agenda for this meeting will be available for review one week in advance of the meeting date on the City’s website, under the Public Meeting Agendas we page: https://www.slocity.org/government/mayor-and-city-council/ agendas-and-minutes

For more information, please contact staff liaison to the Board, Kelly Holcomb, at kholcomb@slocity.org or by calling (805)781-7140.

April 30, 2026

DATE: May 12, 2026

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF SEALED BID SALE ON MAY 27, 2026 OF TAX-DEFAULTED PROPERTY FOR DELINQUENT TAXES

(Revenue and Taxation Code Sections 3692 and 3702)

On January 27, 2026, I, James W. Hamilton, San Luis Obispo County Tax Collector, was authorized by the Board of Supervisors of San Luis Obispo County, California, to conduct a Sealed Bid Sale of properties that have had delinquent taxes for five years or more, but are not usable due to their size, location or other conditions.

The tax-defaulted properties listed below are subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell. Owners of property that is contiguous to the listed properties qualify as eligible bidders. Notice of the Sealed Bid Sale has been given to the California State Controller.

I will publicly open the sealed bids submitted and sell the properties at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in the Board Chambers on the first floor of the County Government Center, at 1055 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, California. The properties will be sold to the highest bidder among the eligible bidders, for not less than the minimum bid as shown on this notice.

The properties that are the subject of this notice are situated in San Luis Obispo County, California. The following is a list of properties that were approved by the Board of Supervisors for sale at this Sealed Bid Sale.

The right of redemption will cease at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Properties that are redeemed (prior year taxes paid) by May 26, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. will not be sold. Properties not redeemed by that time will be offered for sale.

If a parcel is not sold at the Sealed Bid Sale, the right of redemption re-instates up until the close of business on the last day prior to the next scheduled sale.

If the properties are sold, parties of interest, as defined in California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 4675, have a right to file a claim with the County for any excess proceeds from the sale. Excess proceeds are the amount of the highest bid in excess of $150 after the liens and costs of the sale are paid from the sale price. Notice will be given to parties of interest, pursuant to law, if excess proceeds result from the sale.

Additional information about the Sealed Bid Sale may be obtained by contacting the Redemption Division of the Tax Collector’s Office at 1055 Monterey Street, Room D-290, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93408, or by calling the Redemption Division at (805) 781-5836.

NUMBERING SYSTEM EXPLANATION

ASSESSMENT

The assessment number refers to the Assessor’s map book, the map page, or the block on the map (if applicable), and to the individual parcel number on the map page or in the block.

The Assessor’s parcel maps and further explanation of the assessment numbering system are available in the Assessor’s Office, 1055 Monterey Street, Room D-360, San Luis Obispo, California.

I certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed at San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California, on April 23, 2026.

/s/ James W. Hamilton, CPA, San Luis Obispo County Tax Collector

Published in New Times on April 23, April 30, and May 7, 2026.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pursuant to California Government Code Section 25215.5 and Chapter 3.22 of the San Luis Obispo County Code, by which service charges may be collected on the general County tax bill, the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Luis Obispo, acting as the Governing Board of County Service Area Nos. 1 (Old Galaxy and Tract 1690, Nipomo), 1-A (Galaxy Park and Tract 1898, Nipomo), 1-F (New Galaxy, Nipomo), 7-A (Oak Shores), 18 (San Luis Obispo Country Club Estates), and 21 (Cambria), will hold a public hearing on May 19, 2026, in the Board of Supervisors Chambers, County Government Center, San Luis Obispo, regarding the collection of annual service charges on the FY 2026-27 tax roll.

All hearing items are scheduled for 9:00 a.m. To determine the placement of this item on the agenda, please contact the County Administrative Office the Thursday afternoon before the scheduled hearing date.

The report describing the service charges proposed to be collected on the FY 2026-27 tax roll is on file in the Office of the County Clerk and is available for public review.

Date: April 21, 2026

MATTHEW PONTES

Ex-Officio Clerk of the Board of Supervisors

By: /s/ Niki Martin

Deputy Clerk

April 23 & 30, 2026

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1168

Notice is hereby given that at its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM, the City Council of the City of El Paso de Robles adopted Ordinance 1168. Following are the full text and vote information:

ORDINANCE 1168

AN ORDINANCE of the City council of the city of El Paso De Robles authorizing an amendment to the contract between the City council OF THE CITY OF PASO ROBLES and the Board of Administration of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System

WHEREAS, the California Public Employees’ Retirement Law (PERL) authorizes public agencies and their employees to participate in the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS); and

WHEREAS, the City maintains a retirement contract with CalPERS covering three member categories: Police Safety, Fire Safety, and Miscellaneous (non sworn) employees; and WHEREAS, each category includes three benefit levels (“tiers”), with formulas that determine a member’s monthly retirement allowance based on factors including years of service, age at retirement, and reportable compensation; and

WHEREAS, the City’s CalPERS contract requires retirement contributions from both employees and the City. Pursuant to California Government Code Section 20516, employees may share in the cost of the employer’s CalPERS contributions above the normal member contribution required under PERL; and

WHEREAS, Unrepresented Confidential, Professional, and Management (MGMT) employees in the Fire and Police Safety first and second tier benefit levels contribute an additional ten percent (10%) toward the employer’s contribution. Employees in the PEPRA tier contribute an additional six percent (6%); and WHEREAS, the Wage and Benefit Summary approved by the City Council in December 2025 provides for a reduction in retirement cost sharing contributions for safety managers of three percent (3%) as soon as administratively feasible, and an additional two percent (2%) effective January 3, 2027; and WHEREAS, as the first step toward implementing these adjustments, the City Council adopted Resolution 26 002 on January 14, 2026, authorizing initiation of an amendment to the employer contribution cost sharing agreement with the California Public Employees’ Retirement System.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL PASO DE ROBLES DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. All of the above recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by reference.

Section 2. That the City Council of the above agency does hereby give notice of intention to approve an amendment to the contract between said public agency and the Board of Administration of the Public Employees’ Retirement System, a copy of said amendment being attached hereto, as an Exhibit A and by this reference made a part hereof.

Section 3. The Mayor of the City of El Paso de Robles, or their designee, is hereby authorized, empowered, and directed to execute said amendment for and on behalf of the City.

Section 4. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect 30 days after its passage and adoption as provided by Government Code section 36397.

Section 5. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.

Section 6. Publication. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this Ordinance by the City Council of the City of El Paso de Robles, California, and cause the Ordinance to be published once within 15 days after passage in a newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the City in accordance with Government Code section 36933.

INTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the City Council held on March 17, 2026, for first reading by the City Council of the City of El Paso de Robles, and adopted on the 21st day of April, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES: Gregory, Beal, Bausch, Strong, Hamon

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Date: April 30, 2026

Melissa Martin City Clerk

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 13, CHAPTER 13.08, SECTION 13.08.395 (PRIVATE SEWER LATERALS/SYSTEMS) AND SECTION 13.08.396 (WASTEWATER FLOW OFFSET) OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO MUNICIPAL CODE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo, California, at its Regular Meeting of April 21, 2026, introduced the above-titled ordinance upon a motion by Council Member Shoresman, second by Council Member Boswell, and on the following roll call vote:

AYES: Council Member Boswell, Shoresman, and Vice Mayor Francis NOES: None

ABSENT: Council Member Marx

RECUSED: Mayor Stewart

Ordinance No. 1756 (2026 Series): This is a City Ordinance amending Municipal Code Section 13.08 (Public Services, Sewer) to 1) dissolve the currently mandated wastewater flow offset program and 2) modify existing “Inspection Upon Sale” program regulations to require replacement or repair of failed and poor-rated private sewer laterals. The proposed action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15307 (Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of Natural Resources) and 15308 (Actions by Regulatory Agencies for the Protection of the Environment), and 15301 (Existing Facilities) and 15303 New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures). A full and complete copy of the aforementioned Ordinance is available for inspection as part of the published agenda packet for the May 5, 2026 Council Meeting, upon request from the City Clerk, and you may call (805) 781-7114 for more information.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo will consider adopting the Ordinance at its Regular Meeting of May 5, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. The City Council meeting will be televised live on Charter Cable Channel 20 and live streaming on the City’s YouTube channel www.youtube.com/ CityofSanLuisObispo.

Teresa Purrington City Clerk April 30, 2026

CITY OF ATASCADERO

Zoo Support Spaces Renovation Project Project No. C2026B01

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT The City of Atascadero will receive bids for the “Zoo Support Spaces Renovation Project” at the Atascadero City Hall, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, CA until May 21, 2026 at 1:30 P.M., when they will be publicly opened. Proposals received after said time will not be considered. Proposals shall be submitted in a sealed envelope plainly marked with the project title, bidder’s name, and address.

The Contractor must possess a valid CLASS A CONTRACTOR’S LICENSE at the time of award. This project is subject to the payment of Prevailing Wages, therefore the Contractor shall pay all wages and penalties as required by applicable law. Per

SB 854 (Stat. 2014, Chapter 28), no contractor or subcontractor may work or be listed on a bid proposal unless registered with the DIR. Every bid must be accompanied by a certified check/cashier’s check or bidder’s bond for 10% of the bid amount, payable to the City of Atascadero. Bid packages will be available by April 17, 2026 to download for a fee of $22.00 on the City website, www.atascadero.org or at www.QuestCDN.com using project number eBid #10168447.

Question may be directed to the City of Atascadero at 805-470-3180 or dprice@atascadero.org

Run Dates: April 23, 2026 and April 30, 2026

NOTICE

Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 until, THURSDAY, June 11, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., when they will be publicly opened.

Bids received after said time will not be considered. Bids shall be submitted in a sealed envelope plainly marked with the project title, contractor name, address, and specification number.

The Contractor must possess a valid Class A or C12 Contractor’s License at the time of the bid opening. Every bid must be accompanied by a certified check/cashier’s check or bidder’s bond for 10% of the bid amount, payable to the City of San Luis Obispo.

Download FREE at the City’s website: www.SloCity.orgBid packages under Bids & Proposals. Questions may be addressed to Hai Nguyen, Project Manager, at 805-781-7108 or hnguyen@slocity.org.

April 30, 2026

and 56425(e) have been analyzed, and determinations have been provided within the Public Review Draft. The notice and the Public Review Draft are available on the LAFCO website https://slo.lafco.ca.gov/. Hearing Item: Intent to Adopt a Municipal Service Review and Sphere of Influence Study for the Port San Luis Harbor District LAFCO File No. 8-S-25 Hearing Notice: Notice is hereby given that the San Luis Obispo Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) will consider adopting the Municipal Service Review (MSR) and Sphere of Influence (SOI) Study for the Port San Luis Harbor District. The MSR evaluates the District’s capability to service existing and future residents and is the basis for SOI decisions. A SOI is defined by Government Code Section 56425 as a plan for the probable physical boundary and service area of a local agency or municipality. The District’s existing SOI is coterminous with its current service area boundary. The existing SOI is to be reaffirmed without amendments; that is, no changes to the SOI are proposed. It has been determined that the MSR and SOI Study is exempt from CEQA pursuant to CEQA Categorical Exemption Section 15306 and CEQA General Rule Exemption Section 15061(b)(3). MSR and SOI factors listed in Government Code Sections 56430(a) and 56425(e) have been analyzed, and determinations have been provided within the Public Review Draft. The Public Review Draft is currently available on the LAFCO website https://slo.lafco.ca.gov/. Hearing Item: Final Budget for the San Luis Obispo Local Agency Formation Commission for Fiscal Year 2026-2027

Hearing Notice: Notice is hereby given that the San Luis Obispo Local Agency Formation Commission will hold a public hearing on May 21, 2026, for the Final Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget and Work Plan as required by Government Code Section 56831. The hearing will consider the adoption of the final budget and work plan by resolution.

The Staff Reports will be available on the LAFCO website by Thursday, May 14, 2026. You may submit comments via email to mmorris@slo.lafco. ca.gov, mail written comments to 1042 Pacific St, Ste. A, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, or provide public comment in person during the public hearing. If you have questions, please contact: LAFCO 805-781-5795 or mmorris@slo.lafco.ca.gov April 30, 2026

DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING &

WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Commission WHEN Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 9:00 AM: All items are advertised for 9:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of Planning & Building at (805) 781-5600.

Free Will Astrology by Rob Brezsny

Homework: What’s the part of you that you trust the least? Can you upgrade it? tinyurl.com/yourunexpectedally

ARIES

31,000

CEQA based on the General Rule or CommonSense Exemption.

County File Number: C-DRC2023-00028

Supervisorial District: District 2

Assessor Parcel Number(s): 022-261-066

Date Accepted: 1/27/2026

WHERE Virtual

INFORMATION

A copy of the staff report will be made available on the Planning Department website at www.sloplanning.org. You may also contact Monserath CasillasRios, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805- 781-5600.

TO REQUEST A PUBLIC HEARING

This matter is tentatively scheduled to appear on the consent agenda, which means that it and any other items on the consent agenda can be acted upon by the hearing officer with a single motion. An applicant or interested party may request a public hearing on this matter. To do so, send a letter to this office at the address below or send an email to pdh@co.slo.ca.us by 5/8/2026 at 4:30 PM. The letter or email must include the language “I would like to request a hearing on C-DRC2023-00028.”

If you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this public notice or in written correspondence delivered to the appropriate authority at or before the public hearing.

COASTAL APPEALABLE

If the County approves this project, that action may be eligible for appeal to the California Coastal Commission. An applicant or aggrieved party may appeal to the Coastal Commission only after all possible local appeals have been exhausted pursuant to Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance Section 23.01.043(b). Local appeals must be filed using the required Planning Department form as provided by Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance Section 23.01.042(a)(1). Ysabel Eighmy Secretary Planning Department Hearing April 30, 2026

COUNTY OF SAN LUIS

OBISPO DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING PLANNING COMMISSION

WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Commission

WHEN Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 9:00 AM: All items are advertised for 9:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of Planning & Building at (805) 781-5600.

WHAT

A request by Primary Care Animal Hospital to amend Conditional Use Permit (D980343D/ AMEND2025-00008) and associated conditions of approval to allow on-site kenneling and animal daycare services for small animals not receiving medical care, and to expand the approved use onto an adjacent parcel (APN 075-311-018). The site is within the Residential Rural (RR) land use category and is located at 1129 and 1123 Mesa View Drive, approximately 0.5 miles south of the Palo Mesa village reserve line. The project site is within the South County Sub Area of the South County Planning Area.

Also, to be considered at the hearing will be the adoption of the Environmental Determination prepared for this item. An Addendum (ED26-0055) has been prepared to the previously adopted Mitigated Negative Declaration (ED99066) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines sec. 15162 and 15164. Mitigation measures are required to address noise are included as conditions of approval.

County File Number: AMEND2025-00008

Supervisorial District: District 4

Assessor Parcel Number(s): 075-311-016, -018

Date Accepted: 4/14/2026

WHERE The hearing will be held in the Katcho Achadjian Government Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers,1055 Monterey Street, Room #D170, San Luis Obispo, CA. The Board of Supervisors Chambers are located on the corner of Santa Rosa and Monterey Streets. At the meeting all interested persons may express their views for or against, or to change the proposal.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A copy of the staff report will be made available on the Planning Department website at www.sloplanning.org. You may also contact Blake Maule, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-781-4163.

Ysabel Eighmy

Secretary Planning Commission April 30, 2026

yards of import soil; with site disturbance to 9.3 acres of the 11.5-acre site. An additional 8,000 square feet of grading (up to 800 cubic yards) would occur offsite along the eastern edge of the Project, within adjacent Common Area under permit issued to the Monarch Dunes HOA. The project site is within the Monarch Dunes Specific Plan area, located on the Nipomo Mesa approximately two miles west of the community of Nipomo, east of State Route 1, and approximately half a mile south of Willow Road. The site is also located within the South County Inland Sub Area and South County Planning Area.

The Environmental Coordinator finds that the project is consistent with State CEQA Guidelines Section 15182, which provides that residential projects undertaken pursuant to and in conformity with an adopted specific plan are exempt from further CEQA review if none of the circumstances of State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162 apply. Pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162, none of the following conditions have occurred: (1) Substantial changes are proposed in the project which will require major revisions of the previous EIR due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects; (2) Substantial changes occur with respect to the circumstances under which the project is undertaken which will require major revisions of the previous EIR due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects; or (3) New information of substantial importance, which was not known and could not have been known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the previous EIR was certified as complete, shows that (a) the project will have one or more significant effects not discussed in the previous EIR, (b) significant effects previously examined will be substantially more severe than shown in the previous EIR, (c) mitigation measures or alternatives previously found not to be feasible would in fact be feasible, and would substantially reduce one or more significant effects of the project, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or alternative, or (d) mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those analyzed in the previous EIR would substantially reduce one or more significant effects on the environment, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or alternative.

County File Number: N-SUB2025-00029 Supervisorial District: District 4

Assessor Parcel Number(s): 091-500-010 Date Accepted: 3/19/2026

WHERE The hearing will be held in the Katcho Achadjian Government Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers,1055 Monterey Street, Room #D170, San Luis Obispo, CA. The Board of Supervisors Chambers are located on the corner of Santa Rosa and Monterey Streets. At the meeting all interested persons may express their views for or against, or to change the proposal.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A copy of the staff report will be made available on the Planning Department website at www.sloplanning.org. You may also contact Cindy Chambers, Project Manager in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-781-5608.

Ysabel Eighmy

Secretary Planning Commission April 30, 2026

COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO

DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING PLANNING COMMISSION

WHO County of San Luis Obispo Planning Commission

WHEN Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 9:00 AM: All items are advertised for 9:00 AM. To verify agenda placement, please call the Department of Planning & Building at (805) 781-5600.

WHAT A request by Anton Nemahai for a Minor Use Permit to disturb more than one acre of land, along with a Variance (N-DRC2025-00051) to allow grading on slopes exceeding 30 percent. The project proposes construction of a 3,652-squarefoot, single-story, three- bedroom, five-bathroom single-family residence with an attached 1,441-square-foot, three-car garage. The project also includes approximately 1,035 linear feet of retaining walls, approximately 99,930 square feet of site disturbance, 4,437 cubic yard of cut, 4,625 cubic yard of fill, 9,062 cubic yards total, and a private driveway extending through parcels 034-471-006 and 034-471-007. The project is located at 3725 East Highway 41 on parcel 034-471-007, within the Residential Rural land use category and the El Pomar–Estrella Sub-Area of the North County Planning Area.

Also, to be considered at the hearing will be the adoption of the Environmental Determination prepared for this item. This project is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. It can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that this project may have a significant effect on the environment; therefore, this project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under the provisions of CEQA Guidelines sec. 15061(b)(3).

County File Number: N-DRC2025-00051

Supervisorial District: District 5

Assessor Parcel Number(s): 034-471-006, -007

Date Accepted: 3/4/2026

WHERE The hearing will be held in the Katcho Achadjian Government Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers 1055 Monterey Street, Room #D170, San Luis Obispo, CA. The Board of Supervisors Chambers are located on the corner of Santa Rosa and Monterey Streets. At the meeting all interested persons may express their views for or against, or to change the proposal.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A copy of the staff report will be made available on the Planning Department website at www.sloplanning.org. You may also contact Blake Maule, Project Manager, in the Department of Planning and Building at the address below or by telephone at 805-781-4163.

Ysabel Eighmy

Secretary Planning Commission April 30, 2026

(March 21-April 19): In the 19th century, Aries photographer Eadweard Muybridge (1830-1904) resolved to settle a debate about whether galloping horses ever have all four hooves off the ground. He developed a system to capture rapid sequential images, which ultimately helped lead to the invention of motion pictures. His answer to a narrow technical question opened up an entirely new art form. Moral of the story: Solving a specific problem may create unforeseen revolutions. In the coming weeks, Aries, I invite you to stay alert for how your focused efforts to address one challenge might birth even more significant breakthroughs. Don’t get so fixated on your immediate goal that you miss larger innovations emerging from your work.

TAURUS

(April 20-May 20): May is Free Thinking Month for you Tauruses. It’s also Free Feeling, Free Wheeling, and Free Healing Month. Wow! To observe this festive grace period, indulge in any of the following jubilant acts: 1. Declare your independence from anyone who tries to tell you how you should live your life or who you are. 2. Declare independence from your history, especially recollections that dampen your sense of possibility and old self-images that impede your yearning to explore. 3. Declare independence from groupthink and conventional wisdom. 4. Declare independence from your former conceptions of freedom so you’ll be free to arrive at fresh understandings of it.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): The Navajo practice hózhó means “walking in beauty”: living in balance and harmony with life. But hózhó isn’t a static state you achieve once and possess forever. You must continually restore and reinvent it. I suspect you’re in a phase like that now, Gemini. Too much thinking and not enough feeling? Too much future and not enough present? I recommend you take corrective measures. Start by taking one physical action that grounds you. Have a conversation from the heart instead of the head. Spend an hour not planning the story to come but simply loving what’s here right now. Refresh your hózhó!

CANCER

(June 21-July 22): If a honeybee colony becomes too crowded, scout bees search for potential new hive sites. When they return, they perform waggle dances for their colleagues to convey specific information about different locations. Negotiations ensue. Various possibilities are offered and considered through more dancing. Eventually, the swarm collectively makes a choice and heads out to its new home. Your challenge right now, Cancerian, is to be like a scout bee who facilitates your group’s decision-making process. I invite you to carry out a reconnaissance mission and then perform your waggle dances for your people. Make your case with vigor and precision. Trust the group’s emergent wisdom to make the best decision.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22): Like all of us, Leo, you have persistent aches from old losses, absences, and wounds. They may seem like permanent burdens you will never be able to shake or transcend. But here’s some very good news: In the coming months, there’s a greater chance than usual that you’ll discover new approaches to healing them. The remedies won’t necessarily be logical or obvious. They may involve you conducting rituals, taking symbolic actions, or ambushing the pain from unexpected angles. Be alert for interventions that may seem too simple or unexpected to work.

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your restlessness is building. How much longer will you pretend you don’t sense the pull of bright temptations and appealing sanctuaries? At what moment will you finally stop resisting your urge to slip past the usual boundaries and roam? The astrological omens hint that this pivot is close at hand. In the borderlands of your imagination, a daring journey is already taking shape. Where might it carry you? Here’s my guess: down into the raw, unfiltered depths of the future you secretly dream about.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In fairy tales, when heroes are rewarded for their help and kindness, their gifts are often tools of protection: a cloak that renders them invisible, a magic club that chases off foes, or enchanted shoes that enable them to outrun any threat. In other stories, the reward is meant to deepen the hero’s delight in living: a genie’s lamp, a cauldron that cooks up exquisite food, or a horn that calls forth marvelous companions from the fairy world. I mention this, Libra, because I believe rewards for your past and recent generosity are on their way. If you have any say in what form they take, I suggest you request something from this second, pleasure-giving category.

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Poet Marie Howe wrote, “I don’t think we can love anything more intensely than we love a secret.” Many Scorpios feel this way. You understand that mystery is often a joy to be savored. Some truths reveal themselves only to those who summon the patient intelligence to be at peace amidst the confounding riddles. Non-Scorpios may be desperate to leave nothing hidden, but you like to learn from the teasing prickles. You know that some transformations need darkness to carry on their work. Your next assignment: Decide what truth needs more time in the deep before it’s ready to surface.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Diamond is the hardest natural substance, while graphite is soft and slippery. Yet they’re both made of pure carbon. The difference is in their structure. Let’s extrapolate from this fact as we ruminate on your life, Sagittarius. I’m 97 percent certain that you already have everything you need. Maybe you imagine you lack key resources and powers, but from what I can tell, you are well set-up. So I propose that you simply reorganize what’s available to you now. Take the “carbon” of your life and arrange it in new patterns. Your task isn’t further accumulation but reconfiguration.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): My Capricorn grandfather was a master artisan. He told me that the best furniture is built twice: first in the imagination, then with wood. Let’s apply that theme to you. I believe you have mostly finished the first step of visualizing what you want. Now you’re almost ready to launch the actual work. I’m eager to see the practical effects that will bloom from your detailed fantasies. The rest of the world is excited, too. These days, we all especially need your talent for turning beautiful dreams into vivid realities. You have extra power to inspire us to convert our idealistic notions into dynamic actions.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): I invite you to imagine a time in the past when you were almost perfectly content. Visualize that magical confluence of satisfying feelings. Where were you? Who was or wasn’t there? What could you see, hear, smell, and feel in your body? What made that moment so right? Next step: Make a vow to rebuild as many of those conditions as you realistically can over the next three weeks. Maybe you can’t recreate the exact scene, but you can approximate its essence.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20): The astrological factors now in effect are tending to generate useful and valuable cosmic jokes. I believe they may be disruptive and catalytic in helpful ways. In this spirit, I offer you the following affirmations, borrowed from internet memes: 1. “You may call me ‘melodramatic.’ I describe myself as a ‘creative problem-solver with flair and panache.’” 2. “I’m not overthinking; I’m overriding simplistic answers that hide the real truths.” 3. “You shouldn’t think of me as chaotic; the fact is that I’m generously non-linear.” 4. “I have a solid plan, but it’s always evolving to keep up with reality’s crazy insistence on ceaseless change.” 5. “Please dismantle your low expectations; I need ample room to exceed them.” 6. “I trust my instincts; they have often been wrong in interesting ways.” ∆