you
The Sheriff’s Office has installed Flock cameras all over the county, with Oceano next on its list [9]
BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL


















Shredder 14
events calendar Hot Dates .....................................15
art
Artifacts .........................................22
Split Screen 24 music
Strictly Starkey 26 the rest
Classifieds 31
Brezsny’s Astrology 39
Editor’s note

What happens to the data collected by Flock’s automated license plate readers? According to the SLO County Sheriff’s Office, the data is wiped within 30 days. But concerned Oceano residents and others who spoke at a recent Oceano Community Services District meeting were worried that the Sheriff didn’t own the data, the controversial Flock Safety does. The district denied the Sheriff’s Office’s request to install a camera on district property. Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal writes about the conversation, the CSD’s denial, and what comes next [9]
In addition, read about Cambria’s quirky apolitical mayor’s race [8]; local musician Sacha Carlson’s appearance at the Mid-State Fair [22]; and a Swell place to go for a beach-worthy sandwich [30]
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Delayed Cal Poly housing project forces temporary overcrowding
Some Cal Poly students will begin the fall quarter in temporary campus housing after the opening of the university’s new residential community was delayed, forcing students who expected new suite-style housing to relocate into existing Poly Canyon Village apartments.
The students, including transfer and continuing students, will temporarily live in Poly Canyon Village until the new residential community is ready for occupancy. Cal Poly anticipates the building will open mid-year.
“While the university had hoped to have the first building ready for occupancy at the beginning of the fall semester, preparations were made to accommodate students when the timeline shifted,” Cal Poly spokesperson Keegan Koberl told New Times in an email.
To accommodate the displaced students, Cal Poly will temporarily reconfigure designated fourbedroom, four-person apartments in Poly Canyon Village into six-person, three-bedroom apartments.
One of the former bedrooms will be converted into a dedicated study room, meaning some students will share bedrooms in apartments originally designed for fewer occupants.
Approximately 309 students are currently expected to be assigned to temporary housing, though that number may change as students confirm enrollment and housing plans, Koberl said.
Students assigned to temporary housing will receive a 50 percent reduction on their housing fees while they remain in the temporary spaces.
The university initially planned to provide smaller monthly credits, ranging from $100 to $300, according to an email sent to students in late June. After receiving student feedback, Cal Poly increased the compensation to a 50 percent housing fee reduction.
The temporary housing arrangement will affect students who selected spaces in the new suite-style community during housing selection.
County and nonprofit ask state for more money to rehab Sunny Acres land
San Luis Obispo County and nonprofit Restorative Partners upped their request to the Homekey+ grant program after promising that the newly rehabilitated Sunny Acres property would earmark housing for veterans.
Last year, the pair applied for $7 million—a slice of the $2 billion state grant for the homeless— managed by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
The grant money would help transform Dan DeVaul’s once-troubled sober living program into a “healing and restoration campus.”
After a frustrating year of starts and stops with HCD, Restorative Partners and the county are submitting an amended application for $10 million.
“HCD, our state grantor, though working with them has been tedious, time-consuming, but timeless in learning curve,” Restorative Partners founder Theresa Harpin said at the July 7 Board of Supervisors meeting.
The supervisors adopted a revised resolution approving the new application’s submittal. This time, six of the proposed 34 permanent supportive housing units are for veterans.

Principal Administrative Manager George Solis with the county’s Homeless Services Division told New Times that starting on Aug. 7, all applications would be prioritized based on the inclusion of units
Those students will not move directly into their assigned rooms at the start of the academic year and will instead remain in temporary assignments until construction is complete.
Cal Poly said it will make efforts to keep roommate groups together during the transition and will provide additional details about the move process closer to the move date.
The university’s plan also affects some continuing students already living in Poly Canyon Village. Students in designated four-bedroom apartments will temporarily have two additional residents assigned to their units while the university uses existing campus housing capacity.

residential community for occupancy.
Those students will also receive a 50 percent reduction on housing fees while their apartments are used for temporary housing. Once the new residential community opens, the apartments will return to their original occupancy.
The university said the delayed opening will not force students into the local rental market.
“Cal Poly has developed a housing plan that accommodates all students who have secured university housing,” the university said in its updated Fall 2026 Housing Frequently Asked Questions. “Students affected by this transition will remain in university housing and will not need to seek housing in the local community as a result of the delayed occupancy of the new residential neighborhood.”
Cal Poly said the temporary housing plan is necessary as the university prepares its new
for veterans. Homekey+ guidelines were amended in March.
“The state increased the amount of funding projects can receive for construction and rehabilitation, reduced the amount of local matching funds required from counties and nonprofit partners, and broadened eligibility so that more types of properties, such as older or previously funded buildings, can qualify for assistance,” Solis said. “The amendments also add specific incentives for projects that dedicate units for veterans, including higher allowable capital costs and additional operating support.”
Homekey+ is the permanent supportive housing component of the Behavioral Health Services Act included in Proposition 1, which California voters passed in the 2024 primary election. The grant money became available after HCD and the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) released notice of funding availability in November 2024.
According to the county staff report, HCD and CalVet adopted changes to grant guidelines to boost the use of under-requested funds dedicated to veterans and recognize the real-world costs of providing permanent supportive housing for people with behavioral health needs.
Homekey+ isn’t the only grant that supports the planned campus. A $4.4 million operating grant from the California Board of State and Community Corrections would fund reentry programming and
“As with all major construction projects, timelines are subject to change due to a variety of factors,” Koberl said.
The university said the new residential neighborhood is a long-term investment in expanding campus housing capacity and that the phased opening will allow construction to continue while keeping students housed on campus.
“There is no change to the two-year housing requirement,” Koberl said.
Incoming first-year students will not be placed in the temporary housing arrangement. However, some first-year students may live in Cerro Vista Apartments as part of the university’s fall housing plan.
Students with questions about housing assignments or temporary arrangements can contact University Housing at housing@calpoly.edu.
—Chloë Hodge
supportive services, according to Solis.
Despite past delays, he’s optimistic that the HCD will eventually award the county and Restorative Partners with the Homekey+ grant.
Solis added that the requested jump from $7 million to $10 million reflected market-tested construction pricing, prevailing wage requirements, historic rehabilitation needs, infrastructure improvements, and occupied site logistics.
The proposed project includes converting an 8,000-square-foot boarding-style “horseshoe” building into 34 private housing units. Renovations would include electrical and plumbing upgrades, ADA improvements, installing fire sprinklers, and exterior repairs.
The incoming health campus would usher in a new era for the former Sunny Acres site, which followed a controversial labor-intensive harm reduction model under its late founder DeVaul and was riddled with code violations.
“The recent Homekey+ updates provide additional opportunities to strengthen the project, and we appreciate the continued collaboration with the county and the state,” Restorative Partners said in a statement to New Times. “While the application is still under review, our focus remains on developing a project that will provide long-term housing stability and supportive services for those who need them most.”


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Fiscalini Ranch Preserve gets updated plan for future stewardship
The 437-acre Fiscalini Ranch Preserve has become one of Cambria’s most treasured public spaces, offering miles of trails, sweeping ocean views, and protected habitat along the coastline. But maintaining the ranch requires agreement on who is responsible for its care and how limited resources should be used.
After months of discussion over maintenance responsibilities, funding challenges, and long-term stewardship, the Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) approved an updated Fiscalini Ranch Public Access and Resource Management Plan on July 9.
“[The plan] clearly identifies CCSD as the sole entity for responsibility for managing the ranch,” said Kitty Connolly, executive director of Friends of the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve (FFRP) during the district’s July 9 meeting. “It better defines CCSD’s day-to-day management responsibilities, removes outdated references to things like cattle grazing, and reinforces the process for making future revisions to the management plan that are consistent with the conservation easement.”
The updated plan is the first major revision since the document was adopted in 2003. In a July 9 staff report, CCSD General Manager Matthew McElhenie said the update was needed to reflect current conditions, clarify responsibilities, and create a more sustainable approach to managing the preserve.
“It was agreed that updating the Fiscalini Ranch Public Access and Resource Management Plan will enable the district to clearly define operational roles and responsibilities, establish appropriate oversight and maintenance priorities, and articulate the financial constraints associated with district resources,” McElhenie said.
The revision process began in August 2025, when the CCSD board formed an ad hoc committee to review maintenance practices, identify unclear expectations, and define the district’s role in managing the ranch. The committee included district directors, staff, and representatives from FFRP.
FFRP Board Chair Dianne Anderson said the process strengthened the relationship between the two organizations responsible for stewarding the preserve.
“As this phase of the work comes to a close, one thing I’ve come away with is that
we’ve accomplished more than updating a document,” Anderson told the board. “We’ve actually built a stronger working relationship between CCSD and FFRP. One based on better communication, growing trust, and mutual respect.”
The process included hard discussions, Anderson said, but remained focused on a shared goal.
“It won’t surprise you to hear that it wasn’t always easy,” she said. “There were difficult conversations and differing perspectives, but through it all, everyone stayed at the table. They listened. They asked hard questions and kept working toward the shared goal of a revised ranch management plan.”
The revised plan updates maps and photographs, removes outdated references, clarifies agency roles, and adds sections addressing funding constraints, daily operations, annual action planning, and future amendments.
It also clarifies CCSD’s management responsibilities. Under the updated plan, the district will continue managing both the East and West Ranch areas unless FFRP, or its successor, exercises its option to assume management of the West Ranch.
A central concern throughout the revision process was whether changes to the management plan could affect the conservation easement—the permanent legal agreement that protects the ranch and guides its conservation purposes.
Anderson said FFRP worked with legal counsel throughout the process to ensure the updated plan remained consistent with the easement.
“After careful review, we’re confident that the core responsibilities, authorities, and obligations of both CCSD and FFRP remain unchanged,” Anderson said. “Nothing in the updated management plan changes or overrides the conservation easement, which continues to protect the ranch, preserve public access, and guide its stewardship.”
Connolly said the conservation easement and management plan serve different purposes.
“The conservation easement is a permanent legal agreement that protects Fiscalini Ranch Preserve,” she said. “It says what can and cannot happen on the land. It establishes the conservation purposes of the property, namely public access and resource conservation. The easement is the controlling document.”
She said the management plan is different.
“It’s a stewardship document that guides how those conservation purposes are carried out and should be updated periodically.”




The State Coastal Conservancy and FFRP reviewed and approved the revised plan, waived the typical 45-day notice requirement, and determined an additional public meeting was unnecessary, according to the staff report.
—Chloë Hodge
SLO County reports low case count for diarrhea parasite, suggests precautions
With a stomach-turning illness wreaking havoc in 34 states across the U.S., Californians can breathe a sigh of relief for now, according to the state Department of Public Health.
“There are no known local outbreaks in the state, and no California cases are currently known to be linked to outbreaks affecting other states, which are under investigation by their respective state health departments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration,” the department announced in a July 14 press release.
Starting July 13, more than 1,600 lab-confirmed cases of intestinal illness cyclosporiasis were reported by 34 states. The culprit: a parasite called cyclospora that’s typically spread through food and water contaminated with human feces.
The CDC reported that people got sick after eating food in the U.S. and didn’t report any travel during the 14 days before they got sick.
Rick Rosen, San Luis Obispo County’s interim health officer, told New Times that year-to-date data as of the week of July 6 showed California reported 41 cases of cyclosporiasis. The state reported 80 cases during the same period in 2025, according to the California Department of Public Health.
“There have been sporadic cases in the county and the state but that hasn’t seemed to deviate from baseline cyclospora activity year to year for the state of California and locally,” he said.
The hardest hit states, Rosen said, are Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky.
The source of the parasite contributing to the surge in illness remains unknown. While reasons could range from irrigation issues in farmlands to poor food handling and processing practices, Rosen recommended


not resorting to snap judgements until the CDC collects more data.
“The CDC is still in a data-gathering space and is reaching out to local health departments like ours,” he said. “The state has a hypothesis generating questionnaire. If we’re notified of cases of cyclosporiasis in our jurisdiction, we complete that information with the help of the sick person. We share that with the state, and the state shares that with the CDC.”
Rosen added that people diagnosed with cyclosporiasis should expect calls from the county health department. They learn about cases through automated electronic lab reporting that logs results after testing people’s stool, since the typical symptom of cyclosporiasis is watery diarrhea.
Other symptoms include nausea, cramping, and bloating, and significant weight loss. Symptoms can arise within two days to two weeks of getting infected. Rosen urged the public to visit urgent care or their primary care doctor if they begin experiencing such conditions.
“Lots of cases can go undiagnosed and people may not pursue treatment,” he said. “Cyclosporiasis is easily treatable with commonly available antibiotics.”
The parasite is known to cling to fresh produce. Freezing fruits and vegetables may not be enough.
Rosen recommended commonsense practices like thoroughly washing produce, scrubbing them with a produce brush if they can handle it, and cutting off parts that appear bruised or damaged.
Fruits and vegetables are best stored in the refrigerator within two hours of cutting them. Hard-to-wash items like raspberries could be cooked to kill potential parasites.
Harvestly Executive Director Taryn Mohler encouraged people to shop local. The nonprofit Central Coast online marketplace receives produce from roughly 30 farms based in SLO County and parts of northern Santa Barbara County.
So far, she hasn’t received any calls for concern, and asked shoppers to contact local farmers directly through the harvestly.org website.
“We’re really fortunate at Harvestly because so many of our farmers are small,” Mohler said. “Our biggest priority is communicating with farmers and making sure they’re using safe practices. … It’s so much easier to call your farmer if you’re nervous about their practices.” ∆
—Bulbul Rajagopal




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BY CHLOË HODGE
Buying votes
In most elections, candidates try to avoid getting pie on their faces. In Cambria, it’s part of the campaign.
The tiny coastal town has revived one of its quirkiest traditions after more than two decades: the Honorary Mayor’s Race, an unofficial election where votes are purchased by the dollar, campaign promises don’t have to make any sense, and eating pie in front of a crowd is considered an acceptable political strategy.
“It’s literally an election that you can buy,” Cambria Chamber of Commerce President Renee Linn told New Times with a laugh.
As an unincorporated community, Cambria doesn’t have a mayor or city council. Decades ago, locals filled the void by inventing an office—not to govern, but to raise money, poke fun at politics, and celebrate the kind of eccentric personalities that seem to thrive in small coastal communities.
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The tradition disappeared in the early 2000s before Linn decided it deserved another campaign this year.
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“I remembered it from when [I] first moved here,” she said. “I thought, this is kind of a fun thing to do for the community. ... I thought we all needed some fun these days.”

After 45 years in Cambria, she remembers when honorary mayor campaigns regularly embraced the absurd.
“We had Sparky the fire dog as mayor for a while,” she recalled. “One year Henry Cooper rode Harvey’s Honey Hut—a toilet—through the Fourth of July parade as his campaign float.”
excuse to meet neighbors and celebrate the town he now calls home.
He teaches tennis, volunteers as an elephant seal docent at Piedras Blancas, and often rides an e-bike through town with tennis rackets sticking out of the back.


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The race doubles as a fundraiser. The Cambria Chamber of Commerce keeps 75 percent of the money raised, while the winning candidate directs the remaining 25 percent to a nonprofit of their choosing.
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This year’s ballot features Jim Bahringer for American Legion Post 432, Del Clegg for the Cambria Rotary Club, Barrett Stuart for the Cambria Tennis Club, and Dianne “Lady Tie Di” Brooke for the Cambria Grammar School PTA.
Every dollar counts as one vote. There’s no limit.
“Vote early, vote often,” Linn joked.
As of July 13, candidates have raised roughly $9,000 collectively, with Brooke leading the race.
She also remembers candidates proposing offshore parking and other intentionally ridiculous ideas.
“As more money has come into town, it’s gotten stodgier and stodgier,” Brooke said. “So it’s really nice to have something that’s just ... silly.”
Known throughout town as Lady Tie Di thanks to decades of colorful clothing, tie-dye creations, and a hand-painted car, Brooke said she’s leaning fully into the role.
“If the light posts in Cambria are suddenly wrapped in tie-dye,” she joked, “I might have had something to do with that.”
Brooke is raising money for the Cambria Grammar School PTA, inspired by the return of both of her sons and their young families to the community.
“I end up meeting people because I’m always on my bike,” Stuart said. “That wouldn’t happen if I were driving around in a car.”
His campaign supports the Cambria Tennis Club, whose volunteers maintain the public courts at Coast Union High School by replacing nets, patching cracks, and organizing volunteer workdays.
Whether he wins or loses hardly matters, Stuart said.
“It’s a win-win,” he said. “You raise money for your organization, you meet more people, and you get to be part of something that’s making the community smile.”










The campaign has already produced the kind of chaos organizers hoped for.
During Cambria’s Fourth of July Picnic in the Park, candidates delivered threeminute stump speeches before organizers casually informed them they would also be participating in a pie-eating contest.
“We all got roped into doing it,” Stuart said. “Thank goodness they used the small pies. There’s no way we would’ve done the big man-sized pies.”
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The local tennis instructor admitted that competitive pie eating wasn’t something he expected when he agreed to run for honorary mayor.
“None of us really wanted to do it,” he said with a laugh. “But we all did it anyway.”
Before the contest even began, three of the candidates wandered over to a live band and started dancing together.
“It was kind of joyous,” Stuart said. “Lady Tie Di was out there dancing, my sister got me dancing, and eventually we convinced Jim to come out too. It was just a really nice moment.”
Brooke wasn’t surprised by the whimsy and camaraderie.
“It’s the community that has kept me here,” she said. “When people move to town, I always tell them, ‘Volunteer for something.’
That’s how you get in.”
Bahringer, a veteran, former Cambria Community Services District board member, and longtime resident, has perhaps the race’s most ambitious platform.
“My campaign promise is to keep as much fog out of Cambria as possible,” he told New Times. “Especially at sunsets.”
If elected, he also pledges to “get a little taller” and lose five pounds.
Behind the jokes is a practical goal.
Bahringer said he hopes the fundraiser helps the chamber eventually keep its visitor center staffed on the weekend.
“They don’t have anybody manning the office on Saturdays and Sundays,” he said. “That’s when all the tourists are here. Hopefully, as a result of the contest, they’ll be able to afford staffing for those days.”
For Stuart, the race has become another
The campaign continues through the summer with candidate fundraisers, increasingly outlandish campaign promises, and an Aug. 18 debate that organizers promise will tackle “completely nonconsequential issues” facing Cambria.
“The more outlandish the answers and the more outlandish the questions are, the better it’s going to be,” Linn said.
The honorary election concludes Sept. 5 during Pinedorado weekend at the inaugural Mayoral Inauguration Ball, where candidates will deliver one final stump speech before the last votes are counted. The winner won’t sign ordinances or approve budgets but will spend the next year representing Cambria at community events, parades, and celebrations as the town’s “official but unofficial” mayor.
“It has no official merit in terms of governance,” Linn said, “but it’s brought people together. It’s raised money for nonprofits. And it’s reminded us that politics—even fake politics—can still make people laugh.” ∆
Reach Staff Writer Chloë Hodge at chodge@ newtimesslo.com.
Privacy, please
Oceano Community Services District rejects a license plate reader installation amid surveillance concerns
The Oceano Community Services District (OCSD) turned down the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office request to install a license plate reader at its local substation, much to the relief of several county residents.
“I understand that they want to use it as part of their equipment to solve crimes, but they already have body cameras, they have cameras on their patrol cars,” Oceano resident Cathy Gonzales said at the OCSD’s July 8 meeting. “A lot of the community is rejecting this because the Flock cameras are … in to sell data. In the contracts, it does state that any information it records belongs to the Flock company.”
Gonzales was one of the seven people who urged district leaders to reject the Sheriff’s Office’s request to set up the camera at 1681 Front St.—the sheriff’s substation that the department leases from the district.
The OCSD denied the request in a 3-2 vote with board members Linda Austin and Kim Rose dissenting.
Concern grew after Cmdr. Ian Doughty wrote to OCSD General Manager Will Clemens in late June. His letter stated that the Sheriff’s Office contracted with AIpowered public safety technology company Flock Safety to install roughly 20 automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras across the county.
But the Sheriff’s Office hit a snag—the lengthy Caltrans permitting process can take up to two years for all those cameras to be installed, since many of them are supposed to be placed along highways.
“We intend to install one of the pending cameras around the area of Front Street and Tranquil Court, but if we were to receive permission from OCSD to install the camera on South Station property we would avoid the delay from Caltrans,” Doughty wrote. “The LPRs are extremely helpful in retroactively solving crimes, recovering stolen property, and locating missing persons.”
The typical Flock setup is an oblong camera propped under a solar panel attached to a tall pole or a traffic light. According to Doughty, the unit has its own cellular connection and is fully self-reliant, with the Flock company handling all maintenance.
“We’ve had a program in place with the Sheriff’s Office in the county since 2014,” Doughty told the OCSD on July 8. “The data that is taken by an ALPR is owned by the Sheriff’s Office. It is not sold to third parties, and by California law we cannot share that data to outside of California, and we cannot share it to federal agencies.”
But distrust in Flock has deepened across SLO County and beyond. The growing presence of the cameras around the county, through contracts with agencies like the SLO, Grover Beach, Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, and even Cal Poly police departments, put locals on high alert.
Groups like Eyes Off SLO, DeFlockSLO, and Cal Poly Tech for Liberation are pushing back and trying to raise awareness among community members.
“These aren’t just dashcams—they’re AI systems that identify your vehicle’s make, model, color, and exact travel patterns,” the Eyes Off SLO website said. “Every drive is logged. Every trip is stored. No warrant. No probable cause. No consent. This is a violation of your Fourth Amendment right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure.”
Cal Poly students have advocated for the university to remove Flock cameras from campus. A petition circulated by the students garnered more than 1,500 signatures and alleged that law enforcement used the surveillance technology to crack down on protesters, activists, and certain racial groups, and collude with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
On July 11, the Los Angeles Police Department said it stopped working with Flock over concerns about the data’s use.
California’s ALPR Privacy Act, or Senate Bill 34, prohibits sharing license plate data with out-of-state and federal agencies.
Doughty told the OCSD that the law specifically prevents searching the data for immigration enforcement. The data is retained for 30 days and then purged, according to Doughty.
He added that Flock cameras have helped the Sheriff’s Office with local cases.
“Last year, in fall, there was a homicide in Arroyo Grande where a woman was killed and later transported out of county with an accomplice, and her body was found


to be hidden in rural Coalinga,” he said. “Automated license plate reader technology specifically played a role in our detectives being able to solve that crime, identify the suspect and the accomplice, and be able to bring closure to that case, which is going through the court process now.”
OCSD board members Shirley Gibson and Allene Villa questioned the ownership of the data, since ultimately Flock still retains the information.
Villa suggested the Sheriff’s Office pick a county-owned location for the installation, and not an OCSD building that the area’s numerous Latino residents consider a safe place.
“I extremely value privacy, and I think many members in our community think the same way I do,” Villa said. “I think it’ll have the effect of scaring some potential customers here from coming in and paying their bills. Many here in Oceano are legal residents, they’re not citizens.”
Clara Fulks, the founder of SLO-based digital literacy and safety consulting practice North Star Strategies, told the OCSD that Flock routinely breaks data-sharing agreements.
“What does continue to happen is if ICE needs a license plate, they’ll contact Highway Patrol and have somebody … backdoor … look up information from their own constituents’ Flock database,” she told New Times. “There are no auditing requirements, and so we kind of really have no way to know what’s going on. We just have to trust the sheriff.”
Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tony Cipolla told New Times that the department only
shares the data with state, county, and city law enforcement agencies around California— providing a list of 280 police departments and Sheriff’s Offices, from the Albany Police Department to the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office.
“Our internal direction and policy is that all ALPR responses should be verified, if practicable, through CLETS (California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System) before taking any enforcement action,” Cipolla said. “Regardless, for any enforcement action taken by the Sheriff’s Office, establishing reasonable suspicion and probable cause remain the legal standards.”
He stressed that the Sheriff’s Office doesn’t enforce federal immigration law and doesn’t cooperate with ICE in immigration enforcement activities.
Cipolla added that there are 30 license plate-reading cameras installed around unincorporated SLO County.
Now, the Sheriff’s Office has to work with Caltrans and find another spot to place the camera. Because the Caltrans permitting process has a long wait time, according to Cipolla, the department is also looking at other options.
“That just tells me the urgency, … they want to put these cameras in fast, kind of, wherever we’ll take them,” digital literacy expert Fulks said. “I think anything we can do to slow that process down is positive.” ∆
Reach Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal at brajagopal@newtimesslo.com.













OOrganic Sandbox
n a dusty patch off Highland Avenue sits Cal Poly’s Organic Sandbox, where the next generation of agricultural professionals is getting their hands dirty.
While the name suggests a place for play, the work happening there is a high-stakes effort to solve some of the most pressing challenges facing the organic farming industry. As part of the Grimm Family Center for Organic Production and Research, the center conducts research on new approaches to soil health and pest management.
The public is invited to step into this outdoor laboratory for the fourth annual Organic Field Day on Thursday, July 23. The program is free and open to everyone and includes many presentations from Cal Poly student researchers, who analyze the soil data that local farmers rely on. Matthew Grieshop, director of the Grimm Family Center, said the center stresses the school’s “learn by doing” philosophy in its work.
“Everything we do, as I like to say it, has grubby student handprints all over it,” Grieshop said.
Students are the primary researchers, laborers, and presenters of the center. From producing communication materials to doing the heavy lifting on the farm, students are behind all the work. During the Field Day, they will lead guided tours and demonstrations, translating their findings into practical tips.





One of the most important research topics for consumers is the growing conflict between sustainability and food safety, according to Grieshop. Currently, many organic growers are in what he calls an “awkward space” created by incompatible demands from grocery retailers, such as the struggle to increase biodiversity and sustainability, despite food safety regulations that require a sterile environment with no biodiversity to keep people safe from pathogens like E. coli.
Grieshop also highlighted student research on hedgerows. While some buyers demand that they be removed from fields to keep birds from leaving droppings on crops, student-led research suggests this would backfire, causing more birds to land in the middle of the field.
“The retail partners don’t really know what they’re asking for,” Grieshop said. “But how do we get them to know what they’re asking for without knowing what to ask? That’s the whole point of this process.”
Students are working to prove that a more resilient system, with natural predators like hawks and healthy, biologically active soil, is actually better at resisting bad bacteria than a sterile one.
Field Day visitors will also see trap cropping in action. This is a natural pestcontrol method where students plant a decoy crop—in this case, daikon radishes—in the furrows where tractor tires go. These radishes are more attractive to hungry beetles than the main crops like kale or broccoli, giving the vegetables time to grow without being eaten.
The afternoon will cover nitrogen dynamics, which studies how plants find and use the “food” they need to grow from organic fertilizers. In the past, the event has even featured robotic weed sprayers that use computer “eyes” to spot and zap individual weeds.
For Grieshop, the ultimate goal of the afternoon is to connect Cal Poly agricultural students with people interested in growing organic food or who work in the industry.
“It’s really about providing students with those opportunities,” Grieshop said. “The Field Day is really our opportunity to showcase that stuff in one place.” The event runs from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Organic Sandbox on Highland Avenue, immediately following the Cal Poly Strawberry Center’s annual Field Day. While both events are free, individual registration is required: organic. calpoly.edu/field-day-2026 and strawberry. calpoly.edu.
Fast fact

• Tiny Café is the first café in SLO County to become Green Business Certified by the SLO County Green Business Program, an extension of the California Green Business Network launched in 2018. Since then, the Green Business Program has certified 40 businesses in SLO County, with 159 currently undergoing registration. The program provides free technical assistance and resources to help small and medium-sized businesses cut costs and reduce their environmental impact through a step-by-step pathway. To become certified as a SLO County Green Business, owners can apply at greenbiztracker. org/business/ registration. ∆ Reach Intern Sam Fickett at intern@ newtimesslo.com.
SLO needs to protect its landmark trees
I need to address the issue of the San Luis Obispo city war against mature, landmark trees. The case in point: The coastal lone oak adjoining the new parking garage on Monterey Street at Nipomo.
As I have been told, this all started in 2010 when SLO leased that huge corner to SLO REP for $1 a year. No problems from me. The promise in 2012 was to include our oak in the theater design. The city’s and SLO REP’s responsibility was to continue the health and viability of our oak, agreed again. Voila! On Sept. 25, 2025, Kevin Harris of SLO REP asked permission from the city natural resources manager, Robert Hill, to remove our tree. That was granted in an unbelievable 15 days, on Oct. 10. No City Council involvement yet. At the Feb. 3, 2026, council meeting, it voted 4-1 to “reaffirm” their support of removing our oak. Council, till then, had never taken a public stance on our oak. They later claimed that this vote was irrevocable because of “previous council decisions.” What? Who? When?
Please contact our council and SLO REP board President Pam Nichter. They are the only voice we have. As an aside, in June, SLO allowed the second huge ficus on Marsh at Nipomo to be “removed.”
Fitzgerald Kelly San Luis Obispo
Don’t let the Republicans’ plea for ‘respect’ fool you
As the midterms get closer and MAGA’s once-firm grip on every branch of government inevitably loosens, get ready for more and more fake outrage when they confuse the language of accountability with persecution. In last week’s issue, the SLO County Republicans (“Republican Party of SLO responds to ‘eradicate MAGA’ remarks,” July 9)—and in the June 18 issue, Aaron Ochs (“The local Democratic Party forgot about what’s important”)—did the whole “let’s all respect each other” song and dance while in
the same breath supporting a man who has frequently said and done far, far worse than expressing intent to eradicate a toxic ideology. Spare me.
Don’t fall for it, SLO County. There will be more of this as they aim to direct our collective attention and focus away from the growing wealth gap, the treatment of our Black and brown neighbors, the rollback of environment protections, the failed war with Iran, voting rights under attack, Donald Trump’s declining mental and physical health, and Donald Trump’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. All things the SLO Republicans would rather you forget, so they can be the victims come Nov. 3.
Rhys Behrland Morro Bay
Local Republican letter ignores reality
The July 9 letter from Randall Jordan just made my head spin (“Republican Party of SLO responds to ‘eradicate MAGA’ remarks”). He objects to the SLO Democratic Party that stated MAGA should be “eradicated from every corner of our democracy.”
He goes on to pontificate about believing that “democracy is strongest when competing ideas are debated openly.” Is he not aware that the leader of his party is actively prosecuting people who disagree with him?
He goes on to talk about how the “SLO County Republican Party remains committed to defending the constitutional rights of every American and ensuring that every voice has the opportunity to be heard.” This is completely at odds with the actions of the Republican Party nationally, as it moves to eliminate minority congressional districts and restrict voting rights.
Richard Neidhardt
Morro Bay
MAGA deserves eradication, not respect
Randall Jordan is correct when he writes

that the millions of Americans (such as myself) who believe in government accountability and the protection of constitutional liberties deserve respect (“Republican Party of SLO responds to ‘eradicate MAGA’ remarks,” July 9).
However, MAGA is a white supremacist organization. It deserves no respect.
The election of Donald Trump has allowed white Christian nationalists to come out into the open. Unfortunately, by doing so they have revealed what I long suspected: The Republican Party is a front organization for white suprematists. They want our nation to be ruled by white Christian men and have no difficulty in abandoning their principles regarding “protection of constitutional liberties” when it suits their needs.
I applaud Mr. Fulks for his use of the word “eradicate.” We should eradicate MAGA, just like we should eradicate the KKK. These organizations are a pestilence and pose a serious threat to our democracy.
We can develop a “vaccine” against racism with a well-funded public education system that promotes the use of critical thinking.
If we look at who is spreading this disease, it’s easy to identify media outlets, such as Fox “News,” and perhaps local online propagandists, that actively spread white supremacist views and disinformation. If we could reduce the impact of those “superspreaders” by boycotting their advertisers, that would go a long way toward eradication.
Likewise, boycotting the businesses that actively support the authoritarian regime would weaken this virulent disease.
These sound like good strategies to me, ones that I hope Mr. Fulks and other Democrats will enthusiastically embrace.
Moe McEwen Morro Bay
Trump is no Roosevelt
On July 1, Donald Trump flew to the Theodore Roosevelt Library in a jet gifted to
him by the Qatari dictator, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. This is unprecedented. What was typical is that, once at the new library, Donald Trump spoke only about Donald Trump.
A few contrasts between the two men:
• Theodore Roosevelt wrote books. Donald Trump doesn’t read.
• Roosevelt was a soldier. Donald Trump only salutes like one.
• Under Roosevelt, numerous laws were passed to protect American consumers, such as the Pure Food and Drug Act. Trump believes that, for American consumers, affordability is fake news.
• Roosevelt sought to limit the power and wealth of American corporations. The Trump family seeks to increase their own power and wealth, amassing $2.2 billion in his second term.
• For negotiating peace in the RussoJapanese War, Roosevelt won the Nobel Peace Prize. Nobel winner María Corina Machado of Venezuela gave Trump hers.
• Roosevelt invited Black intellectual Booker T. Washington to a White House dinner in 1901. On a campaign stop, Trump once shouted,
“There’s my Black guy!”
• Roosevelt loved his children. Trump once hit Don Jr. with his fist for not wearing a suit to a Yankee game. His love for Ivanka is disturbing.
• The barrel-chested Roosevelt lived a life of exercise—judo, vigorous walking, horseback riding, and outdoor adventures. Trump drives his golf cart over greens, and sportswriter Rick Reilly’s book about his golf is titled Commander in Cheat
• Roosevelt believed that the presidency was a sacred trust. Trump believes the presidency is his personal property.
It’s true that Roosevelt was an ardent imperialist. Unlike Trump, he was a successful one.

SLO’s next generation
Expanding the reach of environmental education and motivating people to take action for the Earth has long been in the Sierra Club’s mission. Joining in this mission is a team of 12 Cal Poly students leading the brand-new student committee within the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club. The students, brought together by a passion for environmental advocacy, come from many different majors, ages, and backgrounds, but share one goal: empower the next generation of environmental activists right here in SLO County.
It’s no secret how hungry our generation is for change. Most of our peers can relate to feeling helpless, lost, or useless amid the climate crisis and tumultuous political landscape we have grown up in. Meanwhile, we are at an age when we are looking for answers about what the world has in store for us and what we can contribute. The student committee is an opportunity to be part of finding answers for our individual purpose and the threats to our planet.
The student committee is special because it is led by students and for students, but also part of the Santa Lucia Chapter. Each student can focus on their environmental passions and interests, build new skills, and uplift each other throughout this work, while connecting to the wider Sierra Club strategy, mission, and resources. The club is a vehicle for students to co-create their futures and the future of the planet.
The committee brings guest speakers to
campus, amplifies environmental action items to other Cal Poly students, and advocates for the environment on and off campus. Some students are building political experience by attending state lobbying meetings and helping lead the chapter’s political endorsement process. Other students are deepening their knowledge of climate and clean energy efforts in central California, including giving public comment on offshore wind and researching climate resilience solutions. Students can participate in the areas of their specific career interests, like policy work, lobbying, writing, education, social media, event planning, grassroots organizing, and so much more.
Students like Amanda Zorick, a Cal Poly second-year and one of the committee’s climate and clean energy liaisons, are building the foundational skills that support their aspirations.
“I joined the student committee because I wanted to learn more and get involved in local environmental advocacy work,” she told us. “The club is a vital resource that makes it so accessible for students to get involved and to explore our passions.”
Some student committee members serve on multiple chapter committees as the bridge between the student committee and the local chapter’s broader climate and clean energy, conservation, communications, and political committees. Getting involved in these committees gets students engaged in work with the wider SLO County environmental
community, including attending committee meetings, participating in public hearings, doing research, promoting petitions, and more. This is an opportunity for students to develop their skills while applying them to real local issues alongside local leaders.
Our committee is very new, and as student leaders, we are excited to be at the helm of shaping what the future of the student committee looks like. One of the most important drivers is that we are excited to work together. Many of us have backgrounds in environmental education, and we know that the best work for the Earth does not come from just one person. Collective action is stronger and, frankly, more fun!
Callum Graham, a third-year member and one of the committee’s political liaisons, said, “For me, being in the Sierra Club is all about being part of something bigger than myself. Knowing that I’m involved in a serious political organization lends me a sense of legitimacy that I’ve never felt before, and I look forward to being actively involved in pursuing the club’s goals.” The collective passion in the club keeps its members supported and engaged with each other and the issues.
As students, we want to take the bull by its horns and create the world we want to see— the Sierra Club is aiding each of us in getting there. In many ways, fighting to protect people and the planet is a privilege, especially having the time and resources to dedicate ourselves to a cause that is bigger than any school, any
community, and even any country. Together, the committee allows us to pursue what matters, real change to protect our Earth, and support each other in achieving it. Sometimes it feels like the world is full of people who are disconnected or don’t care about what is happening here on Earth. We at the Sierra Club are here to collaborate on changing that tide, one student at a time. If you or someone you know is a SLO County college student and would be interested in joining the SLO Sierra Club student committee, please reach out to learn more: sierraclub.org/santa-lucia/studentcommittee. ∆
Aviana Amaya is the student committee leader and Gianna Patchen is the chapter organizer for the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club. Write a response for publication by emailing it to letters@newtimesslo.com.
What should happen to the “roadless rule” policy for national forest land?
34% Nothing! Keep forests protected. 32% Repeal it! Let’s use our natural resources. 22% It should be strengthened.
Who cares?




If you’re looking to buy an election, maybe it’s time to move to Cambria
The coastal elites who live there think that money is what it takes to win, and they are unanimous in that!
Before you agree with me under false pretenses and start talking smack about the Cambria Community Services District and its board members, let me explain. The unincorporated town on SLO County’s North Coast brought back a tradition this summer that’s been on a decades-long sabbatical: the race to become Cambria’s official unofficial mayor.
As part of the town’s Honorary Mayor’s Race, candidates make outrageous campaign promises and fundraise for votes. I know, it sounds an awful lot like a SLO County Board of Supervisors race—except instead of opponents sending out brutal attack ad mailers, they enter pie-eating contests and dance with each other at community events.
Four people are running for the spot and raising money for the Cambria Chamber of Commerce and each candidate’s local nonprofit of choice at the same time. One candidate has promised to keep as much fog out of Cambria as possible.
Chamber President Renee Linn encouraged residents to “vote early, vote often.”
“It’s literally an election you can buy,” she said with a laugh. “It has no official merit … but it’s brought people together. It’s raised money for nonprofits. And it’s reminded us that politics—even fake politics—can still make people laugh.”
Hear! Hear!
But back to the weekly gristmill of Shreddable shenanigans.
Cal Poly had students slated to live in oncampus housing that won’t be ready in time for the fall semester. So, it’s doing what any good university worth its pedigree would do: shoving them into existing housing with other students who weren’t expecting to have a roommate.
A four-bedroom apartment with four students assigned to it will “temporarily” become a three-bedroom apartment with six students living in it and a “study room.”
What can the university do? Construction delays are construction delays.
What is Cal Poly going to do for the students who are being shuffled around like a game of musical desks?
Well, initially, the university thought it might just give impacted students a $100 to $300 credit per month of “temporary housing,” leaving students on the hook to pay the full cost of the housing they were expecting to live in.
That way, Cal Poly could still be the corporation it always dreamed of being—no discounts, no way, not here.
But students were not happy about that plan: “We will have to pay extra (single room price) for a smaller shared room,” one student wrote on Reddit after receiving an email about it from the university.

The email was a notice that two additional students would be assigned to the student’s apartment and “beds will be bunked in two of the rooms.”
“Welcome back to campus!”
Hah!
Two weeks later, the university changed its tune after pushback from the affected students and their families footing the bill. Now, the impacted students will all be getting a 50 percent discount on their housing bills.
That’s what I call action in action!
Cal Poly students have also pushed and pushed for the university to uninstall its flock of Flock Safety cameras on campus to no avail, questioning what the data collected by the license plate readers will be used for and who exactly will have access to it. Nothing to see here, the university has said. The data gets deleted in 30 days, and the school has also said it will not share information with federal agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
That’s what they all say! San Francisco you know, the sanctuary city—used those same lines to assuage local fears about collaboration with ICE. Turns out, the San Francisco Police Department allowed out-of-state cops to run 1.6 million searches using the city’s license-plate reader database, including some that were related to ICE!
Sounds very loop-holey, amirite?
ICE is, of course, a concern. But there are other concerning incidents of Flock abuse: A Texas cop used 83,000 cameras to track down a

woman who had an abortion. Two South Carolina police officers were recently fired for using the technology inappropriately— what they did hasn’t been released yet. The Los Angeles Police Department just terminated its contract with Flock over concerns about how the data their cameras collect is stored. The Milwaukee Police Department just announced that an internal affairs detective was using Flock to stalk his ex-girlfriend.
The list of misdeeds across the country seems to be endless.
Those collective concerns landed in Oceano in early July. The Oceano Community Services District told the SLO County Sheriff’s Office that there’s no flocking way it’s going to allow a Flock Safety license plate reader on one of the district’s buildings.
“I extremely value privacy, and I think many members in our community think the same way I do,” board member Allene Villa said at the July 8 meeting. “I think it’ll have the effect of scaring some potential customers from coming in and paying their bills.”
So now, the Sheriff’s Office has a long road ahead of them of trying to get approval from Caltrans to put up a camera along the highway that runs through town. SLO County already has 30 set up in unincorporated areas.
What’s one more? ∆
The Shredder doesn’t have a license plate. Send one to shredder@ newtimesslo.com.














Hot Dates

RESTORE THE CREEK
The Estuary Program and Creek Lands Conservation will host a morning of ecological restoration in Prefumo Creek in San Luis Obispo on Wednesday, July 22, from 10 a.m. to noon. All ages are welcome to spend the late morning learning and enjoying an array of restoration activities, including removing invasive species, planting native plants, and building trails. Reserve a spot to this free event at eventbrite.com.
—Angie Stevens
ARTS
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
THE BUTLER DID IT Enjoy this comedy whodunit by Tim Kelly, directed by Samvel Gottlieb. Mystery writers are invited to impersonate their fictional detectives at an event...and then a murder happens.
July 24, 7 p.m., July 25 7 p.m. and July 26, 3 p.m. $30. (805) 776-3287. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay, bytheseaproductions.org.
CALL OF THE WILD EXHIBIT The Call of the Wild exhibt embraces of energy, passion and freedom of the world around us in vivid, dynamic, or whimsical ways. Through Aug. 3, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 7722504. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, artcentermorrobay.org.
CAMBRIA ARTS POP-UP
MARKETPLACE Shop at this local artists pop-up marketplace, with paintings, jewelry, mosaics, ceramics, and more.
July 25 , 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 4402784. Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main St., Cambria, cambriaarts.org.
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.
CREATIVES CLUB CAMPS Three-day weekly creative sessions filled with themed art projects, collaborative activities, and skill-building in a nurturing studio setting. The camp is $250 a week or $700 for all three weeks. Through July 16 and Through July 23 $250. my805tix.com. Lor Coaching Studio & Gallery, 525 Harbor St., Morro Bay.
DIGITAL ART DEMO WITH FRED
VENTURA Fred Ventura will demonstrate how to create vibrant, bold, and highly detailed digital artworks with Procreate. All levels are welcomed. July 26 1-3 p.m. Free. (805) 772-2504. artcentermorrobay. org/workshops. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.
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.
GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS FINE ART OIL PAINTINGS BY PATRICIA NEWTON Enjoy representational oil paintings of California’s waves, coastline and rolling hills, built up in translucent glazed layers that glow from within. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY SIRAGUSA Morro Bay photographer Gregory Siragusa transforms dawns, harbors, oceans, cities, mountains, and sunsets into
meditations on beauty and existence. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS MIXED MEDIA & PAPER ARTS BY HOPE MYERS Hand crafted journals, bookmarks, books, paper works, mixed media, watercolors and jewelry are on display in the Gallery’s Craft Atelier Space. Through July 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. THE REBOOT SPEAKEASY LIVE STORYTELLING SHOW The Reboot, now in its 9th season, features a stellar line-up of tellers sharing wildly true, personal stories about regrets and second chances. July 17, 7-9:15 p.m. Free. facebook.com/the.reboot4u. Red Barn at Los Osos Community Park, 2180 Palisades Ave., Los Osos.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
DAILY POTTERY Walk in, pick your pottery project, and paint away. Something for all ages. Prices vary depending on what you choose and includes; paint, glaze, firing, and studio time. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Varies. (805) 400-9107. artsocial805. com. ArtSocial 805 Creative Campus, 631 Spring St., Paso Robles. FIGURE DRAWING - SATURDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS AT FIELDWORK Join us for figure drawing every Saturday and Wednesday for ages 18 and over. All skill levels are welcome. Bring your own materials. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon and Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m. $20 + model’s tip. fieldworkart.org. Fieldwork, 5880 Entrada Ave, Atascadero, (971) 645-2481.
INTERMEDIATE BOOKMAKING : LINK STITCH JOURNALS Create one or two hand-bound journals using the versatile link-stitch binding. Learn optional suminagashi and paste paper decoration techniques. The class is beginner friendly; all experience levels are welcome. July 26 1-5 p.m. $100. Fieldwork, 5880 Entrada Ave, Atascadero, (971) 645-2481, fieldworkart.org.
INTERMEDIATE SILVERSMITHING: RETICULATED RING BAND Learn the art of reticulation to make a ring band. Choose all silver or silver with 14k Gold Trim for mixed metal technique. July 25 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $165-$300. (805) 464-2564. fieldworkart.org. Fieldwork, 5880 Entrada Ave, Atascadero.
SLOFUNNY COMEDY SHOW AT DRACAENA WINES Everyone’s favorite SLOFunny Comedy Show is back at Dracaena Wines in Downtown Paso Robles for a special one night event. July 17 6-8 p.m. $28.74. my805tix.com. Dracaena Wines, 1244 Pine Street, suite 101 B, Paso Robles, (805) 270-3327.
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.
FINDING NEMO Explore the big blue world with this lively new stage musical based on the beloved film! Fridays, 7-9 p.m., Saturdays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m., Sundays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. and July 16 7-9 p.m. through July 19 $23-$30. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/shows/finding-nemo/. SLO
Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo. BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. (805) 7474200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
BODYTRAFFIC: SAN LUIS OBISPO
MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL 2026
Presented by Cal Poly Arts and Festival Mozaic, Bodytraffic has taken the contemporary dance world by storm with powerhouse performers, technical brilliance, and bold repertoire. July 16 , 7:30 p.m. (805) 781-3009. calpolyarts. org/20262027-season/bodytraffic. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.
CREATIVE KIDS: SUMMER BREAK WITH CAROLINA LUNA Creative Kids is continuing through summer! As always, we will be exploring a variety of mediums throughout the series. This session will also introduce cyanotypes! Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. through Aug. 5 $150. (805) 7474200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CREATIVITY DAYS WITH THE SILK ARTISTS OF CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST An opportunity to work on your own projects and materials while picking up new skills among friends. Note: this event is held mostly every third Monday (attendees are asked to call or email to confirm ahead of time). Third Monday of every month $5; first session free. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 747-4200.
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. DEYO DANCES DEYOdance offers an emotional ride blending gravity with
whimsey. Never been to a dance show? This is the perfect introduction. A gift to the community. July 18 , 7-9 p.m. and July 19, 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 540-1081. deyodances.com. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.
DRAWING FOR REAL! WITH LURY NORRIS In this workshop ,you will start to develop your ability to see and draw more accurately and with more structure. July 17 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $20. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
ELEMENTS OF ART FOR TWEENS WITH CAROLINA LUNA The lessons taught in series are important building blocks to developing analytical skills and visual literacy in art. Wednesdays. through Aug. 5 $175 for 6 classes; $100 for 4 classes. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
FAMILY ART CLASS: BASQUIAT WITH JESSAMYN Learn about artists through making art like they made! In this session, learn to paint in the style of Jean-Michel Basquiat. All ages and experience levels are welcome. July 18, 1-3 p.m. $45 for one person or $80 for two. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY AND ART Owen and Kyoko Hunt from Kyoto, Japan offer classes for Japanese calligraphy (Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.), a Japanese art called “haiga” (Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.) and more at Nesting Hawk Ranch. Fridays $45. (702) 335-0730. Nesting Hawk Ranch, Call for address, San Luis Obispo. 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. OIL PAINTING: IMPRESSIONISTIC REALISM WITH FRANK EBER Learn how to paint lively, expressive paintings with alla prima style techniques. This class is great for the intermediate or advanced. Inquire via email. Tuesdays, 10:30


































a.m.-1:30 p.m. through Aug. 11 $295. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., 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) 548-2337, 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.
YOUTH POTTERY CLASS Teens love this class. Learn handbuilding techniques and throwing on the potter’s wheel. Held every Friday after school. Fridays, 3:30-5 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey 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) 8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.
EMBRACE: FLEX ELITE COMPANY
SHOWCASE Embrace is a studentdirected dance production created by the Phoenix Company. Featuring original choreography by members, it highlights their creativity and leadership as emerging artists. July 21 7-8:30 p.m. $25. (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 a periodic basis. ongoing thelavra.org/ home. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
LADY OF THE WAVES: LOVE IN THE TIME OF CLIMATE CHANGE BOOK READING
AND DISCUSSION A selected reading from, and discussion about, Sharon D. Sheltzer’s book Lady of the Waves: Love in the Time of Climate Change. July 18 3-4:30 p.m. Free. (805) 528-5565. Volumes of Pleasure Bookshop, 1016 Los Osos Valley Rd, Los Osos. THE BLUES BROTHERS FUNDRAISER SCREENING FOR THE ROCK
COMMUNITY RADIO The Rock Community Radio invites you to a night of classic cinema, local drinks, and highenergy fun with a fundraiser screening of the Blues Brothers. July 20 6 p.m. $15. (805) 769-8458. Bay Theatre, 464 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay.
CENTRAL COAST SLIM DOWN Take control of food without suffering. Learn a step-by-step process to take control of overeating, cravings, and feel peace with food. Build the habits, mindset, and your unique path with results that stick. Hosted byTami Cruz (Certified Health/Life Coach) and Dana Charvet (Coach/Fitness Trainer). ongoing Call for pricing info. (805) 235-7978. gratefulbodyhealthcoaching.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.
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.
CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS
Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, (805) 772-2840, sttimothymorrobay.org/index.html.
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 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654.
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.
GET INTO YOUR SANCTUARY Join us for a day of family-friendly activities, including a sanctuary 360-degree virtual dive, ocean-themed arts and crafts, and
explore exhibitor booths! July 18 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay, CA-1 and SLO San Simeon Road, San Simeon, (805) 927-2145.
GRAND OPENING: TEAM MOREIRA
MORRO BAY Join as we celebrate the grand opening of Team Moreira Jiu Jitsu’s new Morro Bay location with open mat, signup deals, and more. July 26 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 215-6083. teammoreirabjj. com. Team Moreira Jiu Jitsu Morro Bay, 400 Quintana Road, Morro Bay.
HIKE-IN OPEN HOUSE Enjoy the scenery on an easy hike to the Piedras Blancas Light Station and learn about the light station’s history and local ecology. July 22 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 927-7361. piedrasblancas.org/hike-in-open-house. Piedras Blancas Light Station, 15950 Cabrillo Highway, San Simeon.
LEARN TO SAIL AT MORRO BAY YACHT
CLUB! Learn to sail at the Morro Bay’s only sailing school: Morro Bay Yacht Club. These sessions are led by competent, responsible sailing instructors. Expect a great experience, with the goal of each student being comfortable in commanding their own sailboat. There’s a focus on teamwork, developing leadership skills, and having fun. Through Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $450. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Yacht Club, 541 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, (805) 772-3981.
MORRO BAY LIONS CLUB MEN’S CLOTHING DONATIONS NEEDED Please drop off clothing at Fitness Works at 500 Quintana Rd, Morro Bay. Shoes, socks, pants, and jackets are needed. July 16 and July 24 9(805) 772-7766. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay, fitnessworksmb.com.
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/.
SHAMANIC MORNING RITUALS FOR VITALITY Please park in the first dirt parking lot that gives you access to the beach. It is just before of Morro Dunes RV park. You can use the address 102 Atascadero Rd. Morro Bay. July 17, 9-10:15 a.m. $48.98. my805tix.com. Aurora Sacred Events, 21 24th St, Cayucos.
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
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 18






















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.
WHALE CODES: MEDITATION
AND SINGING WHALE WATCHING
EXCURSION
This is an intentional whale watching excursion where we will connect and drop in with ourselves, mother ocean, and our whale friends. This three-hour trip is for those of us who wish to bring spiritual and energetic intention to whale watching. July 19, 12-3:30 p.m. $120.81. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Whale Watching, 699 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.
NORTH SLO COUNTY
APPLICATIONS TO VEND AT TRAFFIC
JAM ARE OPEN Applications to vend are open for Traffic Jam Vintage & Handmade and Artisan pop-up market on July 19.
oracleatascaderoca.com. Oracle, 6280 Palma Ave., Atascadero.
HAMBLY LAVENDER FARM GUIDED
EXPERIENCE This one-hour walk about the farm immerses you in the processes of growing, harvesting, and drying this fragrant herb. Saturdays, Sundays, 10 a.m. my805tix.com. Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel.
LAVENDER DISTILLATION WORKSHOP
Enjoy this Lavender Distillation Workshop, From Field to Oil, at Hambly Lavender Farm. July 25 9 a.m. $95. (805) 975-0056. hamblyfarms.com. Hambly Lavender Farm, 1390 GRANA PL, San Miguel CA, San Miguel, CA 93451.
PASO FOOD CO-OP MONTHLY MEETING
Join this monthly organizational meeting startup Paso Food Cooperative. Fourth Wednesday of every month, 6-7 p.m. (805) 712-7410 text is best. pasofoodcooperative.com/calendar-meetings. Oak Creek Commons, 635 Nicklaus St., Paso Robles.

SLO DOWN
The West Coast Destination Classic GM Truck Show, C10 SLO Down, powered by Choppin’ Block Chassis Products, is set for Saturday, July 25, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, July 26, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Avila Beach Golf Resort. See more
co-host, Kaylene Black, joining Justin Cross for an evening of laughs, surprises, and real chemistry. July 18 , 7:30 p.m. $17. my805tix.com. SLO Cider, 3419 Roberto Court, San Luis Obispo.
K-POP PRINCESS DANCE PARTY Get ready for the ultimate dance party experience for kids who love music, magic, adventure, and all things fabulous. Whether your little one dreams of ruling a kingdom, performing on stage, or embarking on an epic quest, this unforgettable event lets them step into the spotlight and shine. July 26 , 2:30-3:30 p.m. $35. my805tix.com. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.
MISSION SAN LUIS OBISPO DOCENTS
ORIENTATION MEETING Mission SLO Docents give free daily tours for visitors of all faiths. Orientation for new docentshelp share the special story of Mission SLO! Third Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Free. 657/465-9182. missionslodocents. org/. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
TERRACE HILL COMMUNITY PICNIC AND CELEBRATION OF 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GREENBELT Gather for a community picnic at scenic Terrace Hill Open Space to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Greenbelt. July 25 6-8:30 p.m. Free. slocity.org. Terrace Hill Open Space, Bishop St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-7302.
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. Fourth 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








Monday & Tuesday Welcome to the rip-roaring Wild West town of Roaring Gulch, CA, where Hilda Heartfelt, the newfound gold mine heiress, has both Marshal Wyatt Winchester swooning and sneaky golddiggers Bart Black and Calantha scheming. Saddle up for a musical melodrama that'll have your boots tapping and your heartstrings twanging! Yeehaw! June 19 ~ August 1










































WELCOME TO THE SOUNDTRACK OF FREEDOM












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) 9059274. 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. CHAKRA FLOW SOUND JOURNEY: NIPOMO In these times that can feel fast, full, and untethering, this is an invitation to slow down, to reconnect, to come back into rhythm with yourself and the natural world. July 17 6-7:30 p.m. $25.41-$37.19. my805tix. com. Mystic Nature, 330 W. Tefft, Unit E, 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. FREE MOVIE NIGHT IN THE SECRET GARDEN: LUCA Between gelato, Vespas, and a hidden life beneath the waves, Luca captures the thrill of a summer you never want to end. Catch it in The Secret Garden this July. July 24 , 7-9 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, (805) 595-7302. GALA PRIDE AND DIVERSITY CENTER BOARD MEETING (VIA ZOOM) Monthly meeting of the Gala Pride and Diversity Center Board of Directors. Meets virtually via Zoom and is open to members of the public. Visit galacc.org/events to fill out the form to request meeting access. Third Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. No admission fee. galacc.org. Online, See website, 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.
Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc. org/events/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.
QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY
Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. and Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $15 per class or $60 for five-class card. (805) 440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.
QI GONG: MINDFUL MOVEMENTS FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Balance your mind, body, and spirit with Qi Gong — gentle stretching and strengthening movements that promotes physical wellbeing and inner peace. This is geared towards all fitness levels and ages. Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach.
SACRED SOUNDS PORTAL: PISMO BEACH Begin your weekend by diving deep into a sanctuary of restoration for a profound inner exploration a “soul-cation”! Located just blocks from the rhythmic, grounding pulse of the Pacific Ocean and nestled within the vibrant, crystal-infused space of The Portal at Living Energies, Sacred Sounds Portal is a monthly morning retreat designed to realign your mind, body, and spirit. July 25 9-10:30 a.m. $25. my805tix.com. The Portal at Living Energy, 649 Dolliver Street, Pismo Beach, (805) 433-7685. STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace for this Crows End Retreat outdoor class, which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email for location and to reserve a spot. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. (805)
ZOO TO YOU Grover Beach Discovery Center is having the Zoo come to us. Come check out the animals up close.
July 18 10-11 a.m. Free. (805) 698-7351. Exploration Discovery Center, 867 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
MUSSEL ROCK COMMUNITY HIKE This is a perfect way to get outside, enjoy fresh air, and experience the beauty of the Central Coast. The hike is moderate, with sandy trails and coastal breezes ahead! Secure your spot by registering with the link below. July 25 11 a.m. $5-$10. dunescenter.org/. Mussel Rock, 113 060-012, Guadalupe.
FOOD & DRINK
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
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.
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
3RD THURSDAY GAME NIGHT SERIES
& HAPPIER HOUR
Join us every Third Thursday for Game Night and Happier Hour. There are many games to choose
from., and $2 off glasses of wine and $1 off mocktails. Third Thursday of every month, 5-7 p.m. (805) 270-3327. dracaenawines. com. Dracaena Wines, 1244 Pine Street, suite 101 B, Paso Robles.
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.
CORKS FOR CANINES Bring in an unopened bag of dog treats or a brandnew dog toy, we’ll donate them and you’ll get a complimentary tasting plus 10% off. Mondays, Thursdays-Sundays, 5 p.m. through July 31 Free. (805) 270-3327. dracaenawines.com. Dracaena Wines, 1244 Pine Street, suite 101 B, Paso Robles. PASO FOOD CO-OP MONTHLY MEETING
All welcome. Get involved and help spread the word about the co-op. Tell a friend, associate, or neighbor. Meet in the Community Room at Oak Creek Commons near Pat Butler Elementary School. Fourth Wednesday of every month, 6-7 p.m. pasofoodcooperative.com. Oak Creek Commons, 635 Nicklaus St., Paso Robles. SUMMER CONVERT SERIES Head over to Hubba Wines in Tin City for sun-setting good vibes. Food and Wine available for purchase. Fridays, 5-8 p.m. through Aug. 28 $5 donation. (805) 550-8190. hubbawines.com/events/. Hubba Wines, 2929 Limestone Way, Paso Robles. 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.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo. MEATLESS MEETUP FEATURES
SICHUAN KITCHEN Chef Garrett of Sichuan Kitchen, voted Best Chef in SLO three years in a row by New Times, presents a plant-based buffet at Shindig Cider. July 22 6-8 p.m. $25. (805) 204-6821. facebook.com/ events/1473903421089905. Shindig Cider, 3055 Duncan Road, San Luis Obispo.
QUEER TRIVIA Sip some cider, test your LGBTQ trivia knowledge, and learn new fun facts. Topic themes and hosts rotate each week. Prizes for winners. BYO food. Third Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 292-1500. Two Broads Ciderworks, 3427 Roberto Ct., suite 130, San Luis Obispo, twobroadscider.com.
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 HIGH TIGER CHEER DRIVE-THRU
TRI-TIP BBQ FUNDRAISER Pre-order a drive-thru tri-tip BBQ benefiting SLO High Tiger Cheer. $70 feeds four to six people. July 18 3-6 p.m. $70. slohighcheer.com. SLO Elks Lodge, 222 Elks Lane, San Luis Obispo.
THURSDAY NIGHT TRIVIA Join us for trivia every Thursday evening, hosted by Bottlecraft! Enjoy prizes, beer, wine, and food from the Market Hall! Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. SLO Public Market, South Higuera Street, 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. ∆

24/7



Arts
Double trouble
If you’ve never been out to the Filipponi Ranch for an al fresco production by the Central Coast Shakespeare Festival, you’re in for a treat. Beginning on Friday, July 17, the company is performing a production of Carlo Goldoni’s 1746 comedic masterpiece The Servant of Two Masters. The farce follows Truffaldino—clever, greedy, but also gullible—as he takes on two masters believing it will double his wages and meals. Mayhem and mistaken identity follow.
The production plays Fridays through Sundays through Aug. 9. Visit centralcoastshakespeare. org and follow the link to tickets, which generally run $14.10 to $22.50, though July 24 and 31, tickets are as low as $6.50.
The company next mounts Shakespeare’s Macbeth—a tragedy that explores the violence and psychological trauma of political ambitions—Sept. 26 to Oct. 11.
“Watch the scheming servant Truffaldino juggle two employers, two dinners, and an inconvenient number of desserts in this whirlwind of mistaken identities and physical comedy that has delighted audiences for centuries,” Central Coast Shakespeare Festival announced.
“Join us on the beautiful Filipponi Ranch. Pack your picnic, your lawn chair, and lots of warm layers for an evening of live theater under the stars!”
You’ll be blown away by the gorgeous outdoor stage.
Temporary beauty
If you happened to be at the beach near the Morro Bay campground about a month ago, you might have seen or even participated in the construction of a beautiful temporary shell art piece.
“This past Father’s Day weekend, I made a large temporary installation on Morro Strand State Beach—the words ‘IT’S UP TO YOU’ spelled out in roughly 4-foot letters, made entirely from my grandmother’s lifetime shell collection,” Wynde Dyer, a local artist, explained. “I started it alone, but over about eight hours, dozens of strangers— mostly families visiting from the Central Valley—stopped and helped fill in the letters. Then I left the whole thing on the beach for the ocean and passersby to take apart on their own time.”
It’s an amazing story and worth sharing because it demonstrates the power of art.
“It’s about agency, release, and community,” Dyer continued.
“Almost nothing in it was bought: the shells are my grandmother’s, and the stakes holding my string lines were my grandfather’s nails from the house I live in.”
Dyer, a multi-disciplinary artist whose work can be viewed on her website, wyndedyer.com, lived in Portland for 21 years before moving back to the Central Coast in 2022. You can see full documentation, including a short video explaining the piece, on her Instagram: @wyndedyer. Δ Glen Starkey
BY GLEN STARKEY
Quintuple threat!
SLO Native Sacha Carlson plays the Mid-State Fair
Hollywood musician, actor, writer, director, and dancer Sacha Carlson can do it all. Born and raised in San Luis Obispo, he broke into Hollywood in 2017 when he was just 14 years old and was hired to play the bully Scut Farkus on a live-streamed TV movie A Christmas Story Live!
“I went to Bishop’s Peak Elementary School, Laguna Middle School, SLO High School up until sophomore year when I transferred to Templeton to do independent study because things started happening in my career, so I had to step away from public school,” he explained during a Zoom call from his Woodland Hills studio apartment that was filled with his guitars and equipment.
In 2018, he appeared in two episodes of the TV series American Housewife. At 16, he was able to more fully develop a character in the popular 2020 Netflix nine-episode TV series Julie and the Phantoms when he played Nick, Julie’s lifelong love interest but boyfriend to her nemesis, Carrie. Surprisingly, the show wasn’t renewed despite being very well reviewed. Meanwhile, he was developing his music career.
“In fifth grade, we had a guitar class at Bishop’s Peak, and my music teacher, Miss Lake, had us learn some basic songs: ‘Smoke on the Water,’ ‘Hell’s Bells,’ ‘Seven Nation Army.’ That really started it for me. After that, I went to get some further lessons from local guitar teacher Justin Pecot, who was just awesome. And I studied with him until I was about 15.”
Meanwhile, Carlson was also taking dance.
“I grew up dancing at the Academy of Dance SLO, so really, everything comes back to SLO for me,” Carlson continued. “Drew Silvaggio was my dance teacher. I grew up doing ballet and jazz and tap, performing at farmers market and the MidState Fair, so this [July 18] show [at the Mid-State Fair] is really a full-circle moment. This is the first time I’ve been back [to the fair] since then.”
Carlson did his first feature film in 2025 called Everything I Ever Wanted, where he played struggling musician Aaron Gray opposite budding playwright Natalie Freeman (Ali Gallo). It wasn’t widely distributed, but the audience that’s seen it

DIRECTOR,
song “Drive You Like a Cadillac,” available on YouTube.
Catch his act
Hometown hero Sacha Carlson returns to SLO County with his rock band to play Frontier Stage at the California Mid-State Fair on Saturday, July 18 (8 p.m.; all ages; free with your fair admission). Carlson’s band includes Ryan Deack (drums), Maria Grace Ono (guitar), Julian Bailey (bass), and backup vocalists Mia Mercolino and Ethan Drew.
loved it. It currently has a 100 percent audience rating on rottentomatoes.com and is available to watch on Tubi and Pluto TV.
“We shot in Savannah, Georgia, for a month and a half and had a great time,” Carlson smiled. “Then we recorded the soundtrack in New Jersey. It was just really a blast, man.”
Carlson mixed his writing, directing, music, and dance skills in 2025 when he co-directed a couple of music videos for his original songs including “Remnants of a Falling Star” and “Drive You Like a Cadillac,” the latter of which is titled Sacha Carlson and the Light: Drive You Like a Cadillac, a nearly seven-minute music video set at a 1970s-era variety show called Boogie Bus, where Carlson is a lastminute substitution when “The Stones” cancel. It’s a blast, with sharp choreography and an absolutely rocking song, and it took home Best Music Video at the Leo Awards and the World Film Festival.
When he and his band play the Frontier Stage at the California Mid-State Fair, he’ll be drawing from his catalog of hundreds of original songs as well a few select covers from the likes of Led Zeppelin and The Black Crowes.
“I’m going to throw in a couple covers because they’re so fun, and it’s good also to bring some familiarity to people,” he laughed. “A lot of the songs I’m playing aren’t released, so it’s a little hard in that respect because it’s a lot of new material.”
He’s working on an album with Stone Temple Pilots bassist Robert DeLeo, who’s also producing. Ryan Williams (Stone Temple Pilots, Pearl Jam, Rage Against the Machine) is the engineer. How he met DeLeo is crazy.

“I was like, there’s no way he’s going to show up,” Carlson laughed, “and then he showed up, sat in the gutter, and listened to me play for an hour. That was four years ago, and since then, we’ve recorded an album that’s almost ready to be released. He’s become a guiding light and a mentor for me.”
Carlson’s also got an upcoming music project in the U.K. with guitar wiz Chris Turpin of the bands Mirador and Ida Mae.
Showtime!
Send gallery, stage, and cultrual festivities to arts@newtimesslo.com.
“I was working at Moondoggies in high school, and he came in one day,” Carlson recalled. “I didn’t know who he was, but we chatted about music for like 40 minutes. He told me, ‘Oh, yeah, I just got off tour in Australia.’ I was like, ‘Cool,’ you know, but I didn’t ask [who he was] because it’s just whatever, right? People are people. But then he mentioned he knew the Foo Fighters, and I was like, ‘OK, man, who are you?’”
Carlson frequently busked outside Moondoggies on Friday nights, so he invited DeLeo to come by.
“He’s an incredible musician and songwriter, and it’s been just a blast working with him,” Carlson gushed. “We’ve been working in the Cotswolds, out in the English countryside in this ancient land. It sounds so, like, woo woo, but you know, it’s magical, it really is. You walk down the street and there’re castle ruins. It’s like out of a fairy tale. Getting to go and write and record in that environment has been a real treat. That project should be coming to light here soon.”
He also recently signed to a new manager, Paul Geary at Shelter Music Group. Carlson is only 22. He’s done a lot since he got his big break on A Christmas Story Live!

“I was in eighth grade, and that job for me was definitely a game changer. It was really the defining moment where I was like, ‘I want to do this for the rest of my life. I want to act. I want to be a musician’— that’s all-encompassing of all the things I loved growing up, which were dance, music, and acting. It was like Candyland, you know?” ∆
Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@ newtimesslo.com.















The wrong man





I WILL FIND YOU
What’s it rated? TV-MA
reated by Robert Hull based on the 2023 Harlan Coben novel of the same name, this crime drama follows David Burroughs (Sam Worthington), wrongly imprisoned for his son Matthew’s (Jasper Rainn Larence) murder. After five years of a life sentence, David learns from his ex-wife’s sister, Rachel (Britt Lower), that Matthew (now played by Ashton Cressman) may be alive, so he escapes from prison to find the truth. (eight 37-to-47-min. episodes)
What’s it worth, Anna? Full price
What’s it worth, Glen? Full price
Glen This is the sort of twisty, red herringfilled mystery designed to lead you down one dead end after another before finally revealing “the biggest twist of all!” It’s very contrived but also clever, and the fact that 12 of Coben’s novels have been adapted for TV or film is proof positive that people eat this stuff up. Even though I found a lot the miniseries groan-inducing, I was curious to learn the truth, often vexed by the twists, but unquestionably entertained. David is a compelling protagonist—a man who knows he’s innocent but is also resigned to the fact that his son is dead and he couldn’t protect him. This chance at redemption—and maybe discovering his son is somehow alive—is deeply motivating, and he’s willing to do anything it takes to succeed. He’s easy to root for.
Anna It definitely strays into some plotlines that force you to suspend your disbelief if you want to enjoy the series. That said, the overarching theme and plot are compelling. David has been stewing in prison, hardening and becoming less and less human. But when Rachel shows up and drops the bomb of Matthew’s possible kidnapping, not death, he’s on a mission. Ex-wife Cheryl (Erin Richards) has spent the time after Matthew’s death trying to heal, trying to move on. She’s an accomplished pediatric surgeon, now married to hospital administrator
THE MURDER OF RACHEL NICKELL
What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2026
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Rachel Nickell was a young mother to her son Alex, and the two were inseparable. So inseparable that when her bloody body was found with 49 stab wounds in Wimbledon Commons, 2-year-old Alex was found clinging to her corpse, covered in Rachel’s blood.
Through interviews with Rachel’s boyfriend and Alex’s father, André, detectives, reporters, psychologists, family, and footage from the family camcorder, we explore both Rachel’s life and death, and the painfully long time it took


Ronald Dreason (Aaron Ashmore), and soon expecting a baby daughter. Cheryl still struggles, though, and fears a new child will feel like replacing her first child. Initially, she dismisses her sister’s theory that Matthew is still alive, but when shown the picture of a look-alike older child with the exact same facial birthmark, she’s rattled. David’s fastpaced race to the truth may just bring them all peace.
Glen The cast is solid, and there’re a lot of characters to keep track of. Rachel, an ex-investigative journalist, is close with Hayden Payne (Milo Ventimiglia), her former boyfriend and scion of the Payne family, whose matriarch, Gertrude (Madeleine Stowe, looking preternaturally young for an almost 68-year-old), is giving off Lady Macbeth vibes. Hayden is endlessly helpful, and aids Rachel and David after he escapes from prison. David is son to retired Boston police detective Lenny Burroughs (Hugh
to find her killer. Over 16-plus years, various agencies, suspects, and trials, André and Alex were dealing with unrelenting media, requests for interviews with Alex to rehash his memories of the tragic day, and inept agents and agencies at the investigation’s helm. While justice was finally found, Rachel’s was not the only life lost to the hands of her killer.
André moved his young son to the countryside of France to escape the media’s prying eyes and has since been a fierce advocate for privacy laws for victims. In the years since, Alex has grown into a young man who in 2017 wrote a book discussing the tragedy, his life since, and how he’s dealt with the trauma and grief. (95 min.)

Where’s it showing? Netflix ON A MISSION
—Anna
HAPPINESS DESTROYED In the new Netflix documentary, The Murder of Rachel Nickell, we follow the police and Rachel’s boyfriend, André Hanscombe, as they struggle to solve the mystery of who killed her in front of her son, Alex.
Thompson), who’s close with prison warden Philip Mackenzie (Peter Outerbridge), whose own son, Adam (Jonathan Tucker), is a Boston police sergeant and David’s former best friend. In pursuit of David are FBI agents Max Williams (Chi McBride, who’s perfect in the role), and Sarah Greer (Logan Browning), Max’s daughter. Fat chance that would be allowed. It’s thorny as heck. Anna Gertrude is one of those women whose mere presence in a room could make you shiver—well done, Madeleine Stowe. Once you get your head around how everyone knows each other and what their history is, it’s easy to dive deep into the storyline, no matter how convoluted it gets. I was entertained, and that’s what I was looking for. It is worth the watch. ∆
Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Split Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
THE BLUES BROTHERS
What’s it rated? R When? 1980
Where’s it showing? Bay Theatre of Morro Bay on Monday, July 20 (doors at 5 p.m.; screening at 6; $17.91 at my805tix.com)
Here’s your chance to see a cult classic on the big screen and support your local radio station when The Rock Community Radio (97.3/107.9 FM) hosts The Blues Brothers fundraiser screening at Bay Theatre.
Directed by John Landis (National Lampoon’s Animal House, An American Werewolf in London, Trading Places, ¡Three Amigos! ) from a script co-written with Dan Aykroyd based on SNL characters developed by Aykroyd and John Belushi, The Blues Brothers follows recent parolee Jake Blues and his brother Elwood
AST BL AST FROM THE FROM THE
as they stop the foreclosure of the Catholic orphanage they grew up in by “putting the band back together” and making money to pay back property taxes.
It’s a laugh-out-loud wild ride with amazing musical performances by James Brown, Cab Calloway, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and John Lee Hooker. It co-stars Carrie Fisher as Jake’s murderous former fiancée, Henry Gibson as a hapless American Nazi, John Candy as Jake’s parole officer, and ’60s fashion icon Twiggy. It’s also notable for the outrageous chase scene through a mall that destroyed both the mall and more than 100 cars—all real stunts. This was pre-CGI. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best black suits, fedoras, and sunglasses for a pre-show costume contest. (133 min.) ∆ —Glen





















Music
BY GLEN STARKEY
Country icon
Willie Nelson & Family plays the Mid-State Fair
Willie Nelson is 93, people. Ninetythree! And he’s still touring. By my count, he’s recorded and released 79 solo studio albums, most recently Dream Chaser in May of this year.
He put out two records last year—Oh What a Beautiful World and Workin’ Man and two more the year before that and two more the year before that. And they’re fantastic! He’s still a gifted songwriter and collaborates with others, including a track cowritten with Bob Dylan, “I Can’t Read Your Mind”—their first collaboration since they co-wrote “Heartland” in 1993.
Nelson might have lost a step or two over the years, but his voice is still honest and moving, and his playing on his trusted guitar, Trigger, remains intimate and distinctive. He usually doesn’t play the whole show, hence the “& Family” billing, but songs that frequently turn up on his set lists include Nelson classics like “Crazy,” “Night Life,” “Funny How Time Slips Away,” “Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground,” and “On the Road Again.”
He also slips in select covers such as Johnny Bush’s “Whiskey River,” Toby Keith’s “Beer for My Horses,” and William MacEwan’s “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” Keep clapping. He frequently does two encores. The cowboy’s still got it going on.
As Nelson famously sang in his 1969 honky-tonk barnburner “I Gotta Get Drunk,” “My doctor tells me I should start slowing it down, but there are more old drunks than there are old doctors, so let’s all have another round.”
Of course, these days he’s more likely to imbibe Willie’s Reserve!
Willie Nelson & Family plays the Chumash Grandstand Arena this Wednesday, July 22, at the California MidState Fair (7:30 p.m.; all ages; tickets starting at $61.85 at ticketmaster.com). If you’re feeling rich and don’t mind flying solo, I saw a verified resale ticket in row A for $868.25! Once-in-a-lifetime chance!
Because we’re in the thick of it at the fair, there are more concerts than I can cover in this short space. Visit midstatefair.com for
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.
BOB AND WENDY WITH PAUL GRIFFITH
“Pennsylvania raised me, California saved me,” sing Bob & Wendy on their new song, “California Melody.” Hear them live at Don’s String Shop. July 19 3-5 p.m. $20. (805) 235-5456. Don’s String Shop, 1030 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos.
BRASS MASH AT NIFFY’S
MERRIMAKER Brass Mash is coming to Baywood Park! Join us for an evening of mashups, dancing and community! July
more details on Lainey Wilson on Friday, July 17; Eric Church on Saturday, July 18; Phil Wickham on Sunday, July 19; Megadeth on Monday, July 20; Howard Jones on Tuesday, July 21; Treaty Oak Revival on Thursday, July 23; and Three Dog Night on Friday, July 24. There’re also three free stages at the fair with tons of concerts.
A songwriter’s songwriter
Good Medicine and Numbskull present James McMurtry & the Martial Law Review at The Siren on Wednesday, July 22 (doors at 7, show at 7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; $30.59 at goodmedicinepresents.com).
In case you’re wondering, The Marshall Law Review “consists of the following philanthropists, outlaws, heartbreakers, shitkickers, and every guy you’d like to have back you in a fight: James McMurtry, Tim Holt (guitar), Cornbread (bass), and Daren Hess (drums),” press materials explained.
McMurtry is the son of famous Lonesome Dove novelist Larry McMurtry, which might account for James’ prowess around song lyrics. He captures sharp character sketches of gritty working-class underdogs in darkly humorous situations. Take 2002’s “Choctaw Bingo,” for instance:
“Strap them kids in, give ’em a lil’ bit of vodka/ In a cherry Coke, we’re goin’ to Oklahoma/ To the family reunion for the first time in years/ It’s up at Uncle Slaton’s ’cause he’s getting on in years.”
Or how about this opening line for 2005’s “We Can’t Make It Here”:
“There’s a Vietnam vet with a cardboard sign/ Sitting there by the left turn line/ The flag on his wheelchair flapping in the breeze/ One leg missing and both hands free/ No one’s paying much mind to him/ The V.A. budget’s just stretched so thin/ And now there’s more coming back from the Mideast war/ We can’t make it here anymore.”
McMurtry frequently
25 , 6-9 p.m. $23.27. my805tix.com. Niffy’s Merrimaker, 1301 2nd St, Los Osos, (805) 534-1007.
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
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 Enjoy his guitarwoven neo folk pop, noteworthy singing

gets political to good effect. His newest album is 2025’s The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy, which chronicles characters struggling with demons. On the title track, he sings, “The black dog and the wanderin’ boy/ Come around every night/ The wanderin’ boy never gets any older/ The black dog doesn’t bite/ He just sits on the floor at the corner of the bed/ Watchin’ for things that haunt/ They oughta both go away when I take my meds/ But they don’t.”
Writer Stephen King said, “James McMurtry may be the truest, fiercest songwriter of his generation.”
He’s certainly a lyrical genius, but he’s

Good Medicine and Numbskull present amazing songwriter James McMurtry & the Martial Law Review at The
humble about it: “You follow the words where they lead. If you can get a character, maybe you can get a story. If you can set it to a versechorus structure, maybe you can get a song. A song can come from anywhere, but the main inspiration is fear. Specifically fear of irrelevance. If you don’t have songs, you don’t have a record. If you don’t have a record, you don’t have a tour. You gotta keep putting out work.”
BettySoo opens. Her “vocal prowess is a thing of wonder,” her bio explains. “A world-class instrument of deft phrasing and purity, a voice that knows when to hold back and when to dive in. At her own live shows, taking a verse onstage with friends or singing harmonies in sessions with Austin’s finest, BettySoo sings with consummate loveliness and self-assurance. A voice that knows the roots of American music inside and out, coming from a most unexpected place—a diminutive Korean-American with a deceptively girl-next-door demeanor.”
Boha, Daddy, 101, Chickens,
The Siren’s got music for all tastes this week. Boha Reggae plays on Friday, July 17 (7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; free). The Fresnobased reggae fusion band blends roots reggae and rocksteady with folk, rock, and funk.
and writing. July 18 12-3 p.m. Bianchi Winery and Tasting Room, 3380 Branch Road, Paso Robles, (805) 226-9922, bianchiwine.com.
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.
FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC SERIES Join us weekly for the Friday Night Music Series, complete with rotating food trucks! Wine and food will be available for purchase. Fridays, 6-9 p.m. through Aug. 28 Free. (805) 238-6300. derbywineestates. com/events/. Derby Wine Estates, 525 Riverside Ave, Paso Robles.
KARAOKE NIGHT Food and drink
available for purchase. Last Saturday of every month, 8 p.m. Free admission. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.
LIVE MUSIC WITH JOEY BOONE DUO
We’ll be welcoming the Joey Boone Duo, known for their country, folk, and blues tunes. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows, though reservations are encouraged. July 25 4-7 p.m. $25. (805) 237-1245. mcpricemyers.com/events. McPrice Myers Wine Company, 3525 Adelaida Rd., Paso Robles.
M-80’S LIVE AT THE POUR HOUSE
M-80’S is a super rad cover band that travels all over the globe bringing totally awesome music experiences to their fans! The band features Ian Paige-Turner, a British-born lead singer who has lived in the states since he was a teen and quickly fell in love with the states and the music scene. The band is full of amazing
musicians who have the same love and passion for 80’s music and bring the energy for every show! July 17 7 p.m. $12.56. my805tix.com. The Pour House, 525 Pine St., Paso Robles.
PUNK IN PASO WITH DIVISION 13, OUT OF THE RING, LATEST REGRET AND FIRE DRILL! It’s another edition of PuNk iN pAsO with four great bands including Divison 13, Latest Regret, Fire Drill, and Out Of The Ring! July 25 , 6:30 p.m. $10.41. my805tix.com. The Pour House, 525 Pine St., Paso Robles.
SINGING HANDS CHILDREN’S CHOIR
A unique performing arts group that performs across the state for deaf 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.
UP IN THE AIR AT CASTORO CELLARS
LAZY LOCALS Up in the Air plays it’s unique blend of upbeat originals along with familiar favorites at Castoro. July 26 , 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 238-0725. Castoro Cellars, 1315 N. Bethel Rd., Templeton, castorocellars.com.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
ROCKIN’ THE RANCH: REEL TOO REEL July 19 1-4 p.m. $5. my805tix.com. Filipponi Ranch, 1850 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo.
ROCKIN’ THE RANCH: SUMMER RENEGADES July 26 , 1-4 p.m. $7.20. my805tix.com. Filipponi Ranch, 1850 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo. TAKE THE MIC AT MISTURA Take LIVE MUSIC continued
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Nineties rock cover band Joe Daddy plays a matinee show on Saturday, July 18 (2 to 5 p.m.; 21-and-older; free). According to organizers, you can expect, “infectious grooves that transcend all ages and musical tastes, … [a] sound [that] makes ya wanna get up and shake what your mama gave ya!”
Flannel 101—the ultimate ’90s party rock band—plays later that night (7:30 p.m.; 21-and-older; $18.48 at tixr.com). Hear hits from Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Green Day, Sublime, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Radiohead, No Doubt, 311, Oasis, Stone Temple Pilots, The Offspring, Rage Against the Machine, Blink 182, Alanis Morissette, Fiona Apple, The Breeders, Veruca Salt, and more!
Stereo Chickens’ The Reunion featuring Maddie Flood plays on Sunday, July 19 (3 to 5 p.m.; 21-and-older; free). “As you may know, it doesn’t happen very often, but ‘we are putting the band back together’ for this very special Stereo Chickens reunion,” the Americana trio announced. Singersongwriter Jeff Seals opens.
Third-wave ska
Last Chance presents Save Ferris at Rod & Hammer Rock on Thursday, July 23 (doors at 8 p.m.; 18-and-older; $29.33 at ticketweb.com), where the ’90s ska band will play their 1997 debut album from start to finish. The Orange County-based band formed in 1995 and was in the thick of the SoCal punk, rock, and ska scene. “The group’s humble beginnings saw them play house parties and local venues, powered by Monique Powell’s high-octane vocals,” their bio explains. “Save Ferris’ live show instantly became a hit. As the word spread, the band got a much-needed boost. Legendary KROQ DJ Rodney Bingenheimer got ahold of the band’s self-released album. He played their cover of Dexys Midnight Runners’ “Come on Eileen” on his Rodney on the ROQ show, and the response was overwhelming.”
Get ready to skank, rude boys and girls.
the Mic at Mistura is a monthly vocal showcase unlike anything else in San Luis Obispo. Each third Tuesday, Angela Kristine — vocal coach and creator of The Living Instrument framework — hand-curates an intimate evening of six performers: rising vocalists and locally beloved singers who are ready to share their voices fully. July 21 6-8 p.m. $75. my805tix.com. Mistura, 570 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-3292.
TMHA PRESENTS: ROOTS & RHYTHM LIVE MUSIC & STORYTELLING AT GROWING GROUNDS DOWNTOWN,
Motor
City sounds
The Magical Music of Motown comes to the Clark Center on Saturday, July 18 (7:30 p.m.; all ages; $58.50 to $68.50 at clarkcenter. org). A live band will re-create performances by The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Martha and The Vandellas, The Four Tops, The Jackson Five, Smokey Robinson, and more.
Hear songs like “Stop in The Name of Love,” “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg,” “Heatwave,” “Get Ready,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “Dancing in The Streets,” “Signed Sealed Delivered,” and a ton more.
Al fresco
Concerts in the Plaza continues by the SLO Mission this Friday, July 17, with the acoustic duo opener The Rivalry at 5 p.m. followed by funk and soul headliner The Vibe Setters at 6.
The Rivalry are sisters Haley and Molly Powers, who split their time between Nashville and the Central Coast and play a mix of originals and country roots covers.
The Vibe Setters are fronted by Dante
Marsh and also include local luminaries Jon Milsap on guitar, Drake Freeman on bass, Gerald Purify on drums, and Tim Costa on additional percussion. Very groove-centered in-the-pocket funk and soul.
See
the … Lighthouse
Miss Leo’s Country Band plays the Port San Luis Lighthouse concert series on Saturday, July 18 (2:30 to 5 p.m.; $46.40 includes a round-trip shuttle or $28.62 if you arrive by sea in your seacraft at my805tix. com).
“About this new band of mine, we are so excited to jam out for you all!” Miss Leo said. “We’ll be playing a lot of the same originals and classics but with some new material mixed in. Same Miss Leo sound but changing it up with drums, pedal steel, electric bass, and fiddle. And don’t worry, bluegrass fans, the Handsome Fellers are still playing together from time to time, too!”

HOSTED BY YNANA ROSE This new SLO music series aims to raise awareness and invite conversations around mental health and wellness with live music in a beautiful downtown setting Every other Wednesday, 6:30-8:30 p.m. through Sept. 23 Free. (805) 544-4967. facebook.com/ events/2159625194608460/. Growing Grounds Downtown, 956 Chorro St., San Luis Obispo.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY MAN OF LA MANCHA Man of La Mancha is a classic musical-within-a-play about Miguel de Cervantes, who entertains his

minimalist composer John Adams. The musicians won’t be playing Adams’ complete composition to leave more time for the second part of the event.
fellow prisoners in the Spanish Inquisition by acting out the story of the idealistic, “mad” knight Don Quixote. July 17 7 p.m., July 18 7 p.m. and July 19 2 p.m. $20. my805tix.com. The Studio Black Box Theater, 835 W. Grand Ave, Grover Beach, (805) 473-0377.
BRASSCALS AND FULL SWING | BASIN STREET REGULARS JAZZ CONCERT
The Brasscals from Santa Barbara bring an explosion of acoustic joy to the hall as our feature band. This lively, multigenerational fifteen-plus piece powerhouse packs woodwinds, brass, a banjo, a washboard, and a bullhorn to
Sound out!
Send music and club information to gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
Classic
Festival Mozaic returns with a slate of concerts over the next few weeks. What started as the San Luis Obispo Mozart Festival in 1971 has evolved into a wide-ranging series of concerts, events, and musical genres. There are too many to list, so visit festivalmozaic.org to get the rundown, but here are a couple of highlights:
Music Director Scott Yoo will lead an interactive musical discussion of Shaker Loops, a 1971 composition by American
smash the barrier between performer and audience, promising an energetic mix of funk, jazz, Balkan, Latin, and pop with plenty of crowd participation. Opening the show is Full Swing, a stellar quartet of seasoned professionals from Los Osos on a mission to deliver premium listening and dancing pleasure. Their massive repertoire features swung standards, Great American Songbook classics, blues, funk, and vibrant Latin rhythms like mambo, tango, and samba. Free for members! July 26 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $15. my805tix.com. Pismo Beach Veteran’s Memorial Building, 780 Bello Street, San Luis Obispo.
“This event will be followed by afternoon tea and wine with the artists as you discuss what you learned from the Notable Encounter,” Festival Mozaic announced. It’s scheduled for Thursday, July 23, in the Octagon Barn Center (2 p.m.; tickets start at $95). The composition in its entirety will be performed on Friday, July 24, at Patty Boyd Concert Hall, Allan Hancock College (4 p.m.; $25 to $95). The program also includes a string quintet by Brahms and piano quartet by Erno Dohnányi. Ukulele virtuoso Taimane plays the beautiful See Canyon Fruit Ranch near Avila Beach on Sunday, July 26 (4 p.m.; tickets start at $75). Taimane translates to “diamond” in Samoan, and she’s indeed sparkling performer who can play Led Zeppelin and Bach with equal flare. Na Mele o ke Kai opens the show. Bring the whole family to Carnival of the Animals at Cuesta’s Harold J. Miossi CPAC on Wednesday, July 29 (11:30 a.m.; $5).
“The Movement Arts Center once again joins forces with Festival Mozaic to lead this family-friendly performance of Carnival of the Animals by French composer Camille Saint-Saëns, featuring local dancers acting out each of the animals depicted by the live orchestra,” the festival announced. “Bonus activities include the SLO Symphony Instrument Petting Zoo and face painting in the plaza!” There’s so much more at festivalmozaic.org. ∆
Contact Arts Editor Glen Starkey at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
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.
THE MAGICAL MUSIC OF MOTOWN Don’t miss this Superband tribute to The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Martha and The Vandellas, Four Tops, Jackson Five, and many more legends. July 18 7:30 p.m. $58.50-$68.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
NIPOMO CONCERTS IN THE PARK Celebrate summer at Nipomo’s free Concerts in the Park series, with live bands, local food, dancing, and unforgettable evenings with friends, family, and neighbors every week. Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through Aug. 26 Free. (805) 929-5437. nipomorecreation.com/. Nipomo Regional Park, 255 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo. ∆





Flavor
BY MADISON WHITE
It’s just swell
Pismo Beach’s newest sandwich shop is for the locals
When Geneva Franciskovich finally struck a deal to purchase an old boba spot on Pomeroy Avenue, she thought, “Holy shit. This is crazy.”
That night she was out to dinner with her family, reveling in the feat. She’d just pushed six years’ worth of savings into buying space on one of the most competitive streets in Pismo Beach.
Franciskovich’s journey wasn’t linear, though. Before reaching the deal, she had a few frustrating trials. Some ideas didn’t fit into the Pomeroy atmosphere and one deal soured. But it all prepared her to open Swell Sandwich Shop in April this year.
“I’ve grown in ways that I never thought that I would have, even though I knew I would grow as a person through this,” Franciskovich said.
The 23-year-old dreamed of being an entrepreneur for years. Her parents were always self-starters, teaching her the ins and outs of small business life during dinner-table conversations. Franciskovich even worked for their retail business for about a year leading up to the debut of Swell. Her parents “hammered in” lessons about logistics and decision-making, priming Franciskovich to one day be her own boss.
“It’s something I knew I wanted to do. Even when I was 19, 20 [years old],” she said. “So, I kind of knew I wanted to do something on my own for sure.”
A couple of years at Cuesta College convinced her that she enjoyed the hustle and bustle of professional life much more than sitting in a classroom.
Growing up in San Luis Obispo County, Franciskovich’s first food industry gig was a three-year tenure at Rosa’s Italian Restaurant in Pismo. She showed up as a high schooler with her résumé and started work the next day.
“I got kind of catapulted into this restaurant life,” Franciskovich remembered.
She was then on staff at Giuseppe’s Cucina Italiana, and without recognizing it, the seeds
Coastal cold cuts
Visit Swell Sandwich Shop daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 231B Pomeroy Ave. in Pismo Beach. Follow on Instagram @swellsandwichshop.
of Swell Sandwich Shop were planted.
Franciskovich found herself wanting to grab a quick lunch during long shifts but was met with lines of tourists at the downtown Pismo restaurants. A half-hour break wasn’t long enough for a sit-down meal, either.
She said she wished a place like Swell had been open back then.
“Everybody pretty much on this street in particular is tourist-forward. I’m going to do it the other way, and I’m going to go localforward,” Franciskovich said. “And still, of course, be super cool with the tourists and have them in. I love having them in, but I was like, ‘I want to make this a local spot since I am local too.’”
So far, the business owner has noticed a large part of her customer base is people who work at the nearby restaurants, hotels, and retail stores. She enjoys serving them because she was in their shoes not long ago.
Even when they’re not mid shift, local employees come by for a quick lunch. It’s a classic beach town move: grab a deli sandwich, chips, and soda to take to the beach. Franciskovich has done it countless times.
“Going to get a sandwich on a day off and then going to the beach with my book and then jumping in the water without the surfboard, … like, this is the life,” Franciskovich said. “It makes me super stoked because some people do the same when they come in here.”
As it was, the options for a sandwich near the pier were slim. Swell Sandwich Shop specializes in the build-your-own masterpiece.
Franciskovich makes near daily grocery and bakery runs. Keeping a simple menu means less food waste and a higher level of execution.
“It’s just me in here. Every day, it’s just myself,” she explained. “If I get somebody else, it would be super easy to train them.”
Ingredients are limited but fresh. Salami,


turkey, and ham. Provolone cheese. Lettuce, pickles, pepperoncini, onions, and tomatoes, along with French bread from Edna’s Bakery in San Luis Obispo. Diners mark their orders on a paper form, hand it over, and watch Franciskovich assemble.
“Especially the tomatoes and the lettuce, I try to slice that almost per order,” Franciskovich said.
pages are cut up in collage form on the opposite side of the store. Jack Johnson and Sublime are likely heard over the speaker.
Share tasty tips!
Send tidbits on everything food and drink to bites@newtimesslo.com.
Nobody ordering in the late afternoon will be eating tomatoes sliced when she opened at 11 a.m.
It’s almost like going over to a loved one’s house for lunch, if they lived in an elevated, chic surf shack. Her two boards are propped up in the back of the shop. She had to remove a ceiling tile to stand the long board up straight.
One wall is dotted with covers from vintage surfing magazines, and the inside
“It’s been the most easy and fun part for me,” Franciskovich said about decorating the shop.
The name Swell evokes a coastal vibe, too, matched by cool blue and yellow tones inside.
However, it was never all sunshine and easy breezes. The young business owner overcame a heavy dose of external doubts and arched eyebrows. Who opens a sandwich shop at 23? Franciskovich did. ∆
Sun Staff Writer Madison White’s perfect day off also includes a sandwich at the pier. Share yours with her at mwhite@ santamariasun.com.





Real Estate
TS No: CA07000105-26-1-HC
APN: 006-085-073 TO No: 2758965CAD
NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE

There are 3 bedrooms and a hall bathroom that is tastefully with tile shower/tub and an amazing vanity. The main bedroom has a stunning bathroom with a spacious walk-in shower and double sink vanity. The kitchen has granite counter tops, and stainless steel cook top and sink. As if that wasn’t enough–the family room allows for emphasis on entertaining guests, offering a wet bar, wood burning stove, and a bathroom with a shower. Exiting through slider to the sizable backyard, you will be impressed– from the concrete patio to the fruit trees and raised garden beds, the opportunities are endless. Also walking distance to schools! (388CR) Listing Agent - Regina Cosma, Lic. 01703042, 805-310-8180
0602
To all interested persons: Petitioner: Dawn Jackson filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Bonnie Isabelle Tucker to PROPOSED NAME: Bonnie Isabelle Jackson
THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the pe tition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING:
Date: August 26, 2026, Time: 9:30 am, Dept. P2, in person or via zoom at the Superior Court of California, County of San Luis Obispo, 901 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446. A copy of this Order to Show Cause must be published at least once each week for four successive weeks before the date set for hear ing on the petition in a newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: New Times
Date: June 26, 2026






WHEREAS, on March 10, 2006, a certain Deed of Trust was executed by MARY JANE ANDERSON, A WIDOW as Trustor in favor of LIBERTY REVERSE MORTGAGE COMPANY as Beneficiary and ALLIANCE TITLE COMPANY, A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION as Trustee, and was recorded on March 16, 2006, as Instrument No. 2006018085 in the Office of the County Recorder, San Luis Obispo County, California; and WHEREAS, the Deed of Trust was insured by the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (the Secretary) pursuant to the National Housing Act for the purpose of providing single family housing; and WHEREAS, the beneficial interest

redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subse quent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will is sue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein. HUD does not guarantee that the property will be vacant. The scheduled foreclosure sale shall be cancelled or adjourned if it is established, by documented written application of the mortgagor to the Foreclosure Commissioner not less than 3 days
Santa Beautifully updated home has so much to offer including the front door to the inviting living room with the natural light, immediately you feel warmth including real hardwood and tile. There are 3 bedrooms with tile shower/tub and an amazing vanity. spacious walk-in shower and double sink vanity. steel cook top

/s/: Michael C. Kelley, Judge of the Superior Court
The Sun, Santa Maria’s premier community newspaper is expanding its sales department. The Sun is owned by the New Times Media Group which includes its sister paper New Times in SLO. The Sun is a proud, active member of the Santa Maria community contributing comprehensive local news, and entertainment coverage for northern Santa Barbara County. We are seeking energetic and self-motivated individuals looking for a career in advertising sales. As part of The Sun team, you can build a career in an exciting industry, enjoy a small office atmosphere, a wonderful work environment and be a part of a company that makes a difference in our community. These are full time positions. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and reliable automobile. Sales experience preferred. Competitive compensation base on your sales experience and health benefits included. Please send cover letter and resume to crucker@newtimesslo.com
and interior
As you enter the front door to the inviting living room with a stone fireplace and large windows, allowing in
July 16, 23, 30, & August 6, 2026
the natural light, immediately you feel warmth and coziness. Features mostly hard
flooring including real hardwood and tile. There are 3 bedrooms and a hall bathroom
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

JOBS WANTED Reyes Gardening is looking for more work! 30 years experience. Call Julio (805)369-4308
NEW FILE NO. 2026-1140
OLD FILE NO. 2025-0228
The Main Foundation, 790 Main Street, Templeton, CA 93465. San Luis Obispo County. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 01/29/2025. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Partners for Nutrition & National Permanent Prescription Drug Detox, Incorporated (790 Main Street, Templeton, CA 93465). This business was conducted by A Corporation /s/ Deborah L Fransen, Treasurer, Partners for Nutrition & National Permanent Prescription Drug De tox, Incorporated. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 05/27/2026. I hereby certify that this copy is a cor rect copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By A. Trujillo, Deputy Clerk. July 2, 9, 16, & 23, 2026
steel cook top and sink. As if that wasn’t enough–the
emphasis on entertaining guests, offering a wet bar, wood burning stove, and a bathroom with a shower. Exiting through slider to the sizable backyard, you will be impressed– from the concrete patio to the fruit trees and raised garden beds, the opportunities are endless. Also walking distance to schools! (388CR)
Listing Agent - Regina Cosma, Lic. 01703042, 805-310-8180
STATEMENT OF ABANDON MENT OF USE OF FICTI
TIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2026-1351
OLD FILE NO. 2022-1794
C Nails, 1230 Los Osos Valley Rd., Suite C, Los Osos, CA 93402. San Luis Obispo County. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 08/02/2022. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Huy Ha Nguyen, Bay Thi Duong (1245 4th St. Apt. A, Los Osos, CA 93402). This business was conducted by A Married Couple /s/ Huy Ha Nguyen, Bay Thi Duong. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 06/24/2026. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By M. Katz, Deputy Clerk. July 2, 9, 16, & 23, 2026
payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, 12 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR part 27, subpart B, and by the Secretary’s designation of MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on May 31, 2018, as Instrument No. 2018-022132, notice is hereby given that on August 4, 2026 at 11:00 AM, local time, all real and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises (“Property”) will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder: Commonly known as: 873 MESA DR, ARROYO GRANDE, CA 93420 LOT 47 OF TRACT 525, IN THE CITY OF ARROYO GRANDE, COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ACCORDING TO MAP RECORDED AUGUST 6, 1974 IN BOOK 8, PAGE 58 OF MAPS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY. The sale will be held in the breezeway adjacent to the County General Services Building, 1087 Santa Rosa Street, San Luis Obispo,
its sales department. The
Group which includes its sister
a proud, active member of the Santa
comprehensive local news, and
Santa Barbara County. We are
license able automobile. Sales experience preferred. Competitive sation base on your sales experience and health benefits Please send cover letter and resume to crucker@newtimesslo.com

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTI -
TIOUS BUSINESS NAME
NEW FILE NO. 2026-1484
OLD FILE NO. 2026-0831
LITTLE ROOM CO., 2027 Rachel Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. San Luis Obispo County. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in San Luis Obispo County on 04/16/2026. The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Kristine T Macaulay (2027 Rachel Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401), David Tetrault (23 Bertram Street, Beverly, MA 01915). This business was conducted by A General Partnership /s/ Kristine Macaulay. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 07/09/2026. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the statement on file in my office. (Seal) Elaina Cano, County Clerk. By A. Schultz, Deputy Clerk. July 16, 23, 30, & August 6, 2026
other time as the Secretary may de termine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the highest bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveying fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery date of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them. The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment.
All extensions will be for 15-day increments for a fee of $500.00, paid in advance. The extension fee shall be in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of HUD. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due. If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder may be required to forfeit the cash deposit or, at the election of the foreclosure commissioner after consultation with the HUD representative, will be liable to HUD for any costs incurred as a result of such failure. The Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD representative, offer the property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of

JOBS WANTED Reyes Gardening is looking for more 30 years experience. Call Julio (805)369-4308




FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
FILE NO. 2026-1105
(N/A)
New Filing
The following person is doing business as LOCAL THREADS, 4260 La Posada, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. San Luis Obispo County. Antonine Arthur (4260 La Posada, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401). This business is conducted by An Individual / Antonine Arthur. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 05-20-2026. 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. 05-20-2031. June 25, July 2, 9, & 16, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
FILE NO. 2026-1127
(05/22/2026)
New Filing
The following person is doing business as GAS EATS, 1430 4th St., Los Osos, CA 93402. San Luis Obispo County. Geoffrey Tutko (1430 4th St., Los Osos, CA 93402). This business is conducted by An Individual / Geoffrey Tutko. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 05-22-2026. 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. 05-22-2031. June 25, July 2, 9, & 16, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
FILE NO. 2026-1171
(05/21/2026)
New Filing
The following person is doing business as WALGREENS #21633, 740 Quintana Road, Morro Bay, CA 93442. San Luis Obispo County. Walgreen Co. (P.O. Box 901, Deerfield, IL 60015). This business is conducted by A IL Corporation / Walgreen Co., Richard Gates, SR VP, Chief Pharmacy Officer. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 05-292026. 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. 05-29-2031. June 25, July 2, 9, & 16, 2026
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY, 104 Brewer St., Apt D, Templeton, CA 93465. San Luis Obispo County. Aimee Antongiovanni (2425 Golden Hill Rd. Ste. 106 PMB 1027, Paso Robles, CA 93446). This business is conducted by An Individual / Aimee Antongiovanni. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 06-08-2026. 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. 0608-2031. June 25, July 2, 9, & 16, 2026
4080 Horizon Lane, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Notice of public sale of property for 1 storage unit
Foreclosure Lien Sale will be held with online bidding @ www.bid13. com
Closing at 3PM, Thursday, July 23rd, 2026
Property to be sold to the highest bidder for cash or credit card payment.
Clean up deposit of $250.00 (cash or credit card) will
Magdalena Bascos, Unit H088, Racks Lamps, Boxes, misc. July 16th 2026
4080 Horizon Lane, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Notice of Public Sale of property for 1 storage unit
Foreclosure Lien Sale will be held with online bidding @ www.bid13. com Closing at 3PM, Tuesday, July 16th, 2026 Property to be sold to the highest bidder for cash or credit card payment Clean up deposit of $250.00 (cash or credit card) will be required.
Removal must be done in 72 hours.
Seller reserves the right to withdraw property from sale.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2026-1174 (05/12/2026)
New Filing
The following person is doing business as PACIFIC POINT RESORT, 2555 Price Street, Pismo Beach, CA 93449. San Luis Obispo County. CCC TRS, LLC (100 Saint Paul Street, Suite 800, Denver, CO 80206). This business is conducted by A DE Limited Liability Company / CCC TRS, LLC, Vice President, Mike Wilbert. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 05-29-2026. 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. 05-29-2031. June 11, 18, 25, July 2, & 16, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2026-1175 (05/12/2026)
New Filing
The following person is doing business as PACIFIC POINT RESORT, 2411 Price Street, Pismo Beach, CA 93449. San Luis Obispo County. CCC TRS, LLC (100 Saint Paul Street, Suite 800, Denver, CO 80206). This business is conducted by A DE Limited Liability Company / CCC TRS, LLC, Vice President, Mike Wilbert. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Luis Obispo on 05-29-2026. 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. 05-29-2031. June 11, 18, 25, July 2, & 16, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2026-1198
Raniag Bascos, Unit H035, has the following items such as tools, refrigerator, racks, totes, wood, misc.
July 16th 2026
CITATION FOR PUBLICATION UNDER WELFARE AND INSTITUTIONS CODE SECTION 294
ATTORNEY OR PARTY WITHOUT ATTORNEY Department of Social Services PO Box 8119
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93408 Juvenile Court
CASE NAME: Starla Rose Johnson CASE NUMBER: 26JD00044-001
1. To: Jacqueline Chere Chambers and anyone claiming to be a parent of Starla Rose Johnson born on 03/10/2026 at home birth, Paso Robles, California
2. A hearing will be held on August 27, 2026 at 1:15pm in Dept. 12 located at Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93408.
3. At the hearing the court will consider the recommendations of the social worker or probation officer.
4. The social worker or probation officer will recommend that your child be freed from your legal custody so that the child may be adopted. If the court follows the recommendation, all of your parental rights to the child will be terminated.
5. You have the right to be present at the hearing, to present evidence, and you have the right to be represented by an attorney. If you do not have an attorney and cannot afford to hire one, the court will appoint an attorney for you.
6. If the court terminates your parental rights, the order may be final.
7. The court will proceed with this hearing whether or not you are present.
Date: June 22, 2026 /s/ Marisa Salazar, Deputy Clerk July 2, 9, 16, & 23, 2026
PO
8119 San Luis Obispo, CA 93403 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93408 Juvenile Court CASE NAME: Starla Rose Johnson CASE NUMBER: 26JD00044-001
1. To: Michael Gray Johnson and anyone claiming to be a parent of Starla Rose Johnson born on 03/10/2026 at home birth, Paso Robles, California
2. A hearing will be held on August 27, 2026, at 1:15pm in Dept. 12 located at Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93408.
3. At the hearing the court will consider the recommendations of the social worker or probation officer.
4. The social worker or probation officer will recommend that your child be freed from your legal custody
6.
Date: June 22, 2026 /s/ Marisa Salazar, Deputy Clerk July 2, 9, 16, & 23, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2026-1230 (05/20/2026) New Filing The following person
INVITATION TO BID (SUB BIDS ONLY)
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: MAINO CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INCORPORATED
PROJECT NAME: CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC STATE UNIVERSITY SAN LUIS OBISPO
MUSTANG SUBSTATION TRANSFORMER UPGRADE ENABLING PACKAGE
PROJECT LOCATION: MUSTANG SUBSTATION - CAL POLY STATE UNIVERSITY, SLO, CA 93407
PROJECT OWNER: TRUSTEES OF THE CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY ARCHITECT: P2S ENGINEERING
BID DATE & TIME: THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2026 AT 12:00 PM
PRE-BID SITE REVIEW: THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2026 AT 8:30 AM
ESTIMATE/BUDGET: $450,000
ANTICIPATED SCHEDULE: 2.5 MONTHS
START DATE: AUGUST 31, 2026
COMPLETION: NOVEMBER 13, 2026
(CONTRACTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR OVERTIME AND WEEKEND WORK ANTICIPATED TO MEET PROJECT SCHEDULE)

CITY OF ATASCADERO
2026 Measure F-14 Pavement Rehabilitation Project Project No. C2025R01
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT
The City of Atascadero will receive bids for the “2026 Measure F-14 Pavement Rehabilitation Project” at the Atascadero City Hall, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, CA until July 23, 2026 at 1:30 P.M., when they will be publicly opened.
SCOPE OF WORK:
Work consists of constructing a new concrete retaining wall and containment pad for the relocation of one existing electrical transformer, including: demolition and earthwork, site drainage utilities, fencing, concrete retaining walls – slab – containment curbs, waterproofing, hot mix asphalt patch, irrigation line relocation.
The University will be performing the following trades: None. BIDS SHALL BE EMAILED TO: sonnys@mainoslo.com
BID REQUIREMENTS:
1. Subcontractors must be bondable and may be required to provide Payment and Performance Bonds.
2. Bid Bond is not required.
3. Safety Record is of the utmost importance. Subcontractors with an aggregate EMR Rate of 1.5 over the past three years may be disqualified.
4. Prevailing Wage TO VIEW PLANS/SPEC:
Plans and specs may be downloaded from ASAP Reprographics at www.projectsasap.com
Plans and specs may also be viewed at the following Builders Exchanges:
– SLO County Builders Exchange – www.slocbe.com
– Santa Maria Valley Contractors Association – www.smvca.org
– Central California Builders Exchange – www.cencalbx.com
Maino Construction Company, Incorporated is an equal opportunity Contractor. It is the responsibility of each Subcontractor to view all pertinent information and documents prior to submitting a proposal.
NOTICE: SEIZURE OF PROPERTY AND INITIATION OF NONJUDICIAL FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS PER HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 11488.4(J) TO: ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
$1,342.00 IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY
Notice is hereby given that on July 2, 2026, the abovedescribed property was seized at or near 900 Park St., Paso Robles CA, 93446 by Paso Robles Police Department, in connection with, to wit, violations of sections 11351 and 11379.6 of the California Health and Safety Code. The estimated/appraised value of the property is $1,342.00.
Pursuant to section 11488.4(j) of the California Health and Safety Code, you must file a verified claim stating your interest in the property with the Superior Court’s Civil Division, Room 385, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California 93408. Claim forms are available from the Clerk of the above court and also online at https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/mc200.pdf.
Furthermore, an endorsed copy of the verified claim must also be served on the District Attorney, Asset Forfeiture Unit, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, 4th Floor, San Luis Obispo, California 93408, within 30 days of filing the claim with the Superior Court’s Civil Division.
Both the District Attorney’s Office and the Interested Party filing the claim are entitled to conduct reciprocal requests for discovery in preparation for a hearing. The provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure shall apply to the proceedings unless inconsistent with the provisions or procedures set forth in the Health and Safety Code (Section 11488.5(c)(3)). The Interested Party in entitled to legal representation at a hearing, although not one appointed at public expense, and has the right to present evidence and witnesses, and to cross-examine plaintiff’s witnesses, but there is no right to avoid testifying at a civil hearing.
The failure to timely file and secure a verified claim stating an interest in the property in the Superior Court will result in the property being declared or ordered forfeited to the State of California and distributed pursuant to the provisions of Health and Safety Code section 11489 without further notice or hearing.
DATED: July 13, 2026
DAN DOW
District Attorney
Kenneth Jorgensen
Deputy District Attorney
July 16, 23, & 30, 2026
NOTICE: SEIZURE OF PROPERTY AND INITIATION OF NONJUDICIAL FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS PER HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 11488.4(J) TO: ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
$2,520.00 IN UNITED STATES CURRENCY
Notice is hereby given that on June 4, 2026, the abovedescribed property was seized at or near 1585 Kansas Ave., San Luis Obispo CA , by San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, in connection with, to wit, violations of sections 11370 & 11378 of the California Health and Safety Code. The estimated/appraised value of the property is $2,520.00.
Pursuant to section 11488.4(j) of the California Health and Safety Code, you must file a verified claim stating your interest in the property with the Superior Court’s Civil Division, Room 385, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California 93408. Claim forms are available from the Clerk of the above court and also online at https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/mc200.pdf.
Furthermore, an endorsed copy of the verified claim must also be served on the District Attorney, Asset Forfeiture Unit, County Courthouse Annex, 1035 Palm Street, 4th Floor, San Luis Obispo, California 93408, within 30 days of filing the claim with the Superior Court’s Civil Division.
Both the District Attorney’s Office and the Interested Party filing the claim are entitled to conduct reciprocal requests for discovery in preparation for a hearing. The provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure shall apply to the proceedings unless inconsistent with the provisions or procedures set forth in the Health and Safety Code (Section 11488.5(c)(3)). The Interested Party in entitled to legal representation at a hearing, although not one appointed at public expense, and has the right to present evidence and witnesses, and to cross-examine plaintiff’s witnesses, but there is no right to avoid testifying at a civil hearing.
The failure to timely file and secure a verified claim stating an interest in the property in the Superior Court will result in the property being declared or ordered forfeited to the State of California and distributed pursuant to the provisions of Health and Safety Code section 11489 without further notice or hearing.
DATED: July 13, 2026
DAN DOW District Attorney
Kenneth Jorgensen Deputy District Attorney July 16, 23, & 30, 2026
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 July 1, 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 #10268548
Question may be directed to the City of Atascadero at 805-470-3180 or dprice@atascadero.org
Run Dates: July 9, 2026 and July 16, 2026

CITY OF ATASCADERO
El Camino Real at Highway 41 Rehabilitation Project Project No. C2025R05
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT “El Camino Real at Highway 41 Rehabilitation Project” at the Atascadero City Hall, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, CA until July 23, 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 July 8, 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 #10269608
Question may be directed to the City of Atascadero at 805-470-3180 or dprice@atascadero.org
Run Dates: July 9, 2026 and July 16, 2026

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE: SHALL BE A REGISTERED VOTER AND RESIDENT OF THE TRUSTEE AREA. THE COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, AND MEMBER OF HIS/HER STAFF, OR ANY EMPLOYEE OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT IS NOT ELIGIBLE TO BE A MEMBER OF THE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION.
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515. Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
DISTRICT’S GOVERNING BOARD UNLESS AND UNTIL HE/SHE RESIGNS AS AN EMPLOYEE. NO MEMBER OF THE GOVERNING BOARD SHALL, DURING THE TERM FOR WHICH HE/SHE WAS ELECTED, BE ELIGIBLE TO SERVE ON THE GOVERNING BOARD OF A HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT WHOSE BOUNDARIES ARE COTERMINOUS WITH THOSE OF THE COLLEGE DISTRICT. The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515.
Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
3, 2026, for the purpose of electing Governing Board Members as submitted by the District: NUMBER TO BE ELECTED TERM OF OFFICE THREE – ELECTED AT-LARGE 4 YEARS QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE: SHALL BE A REGISTERED VOTER AND RESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT AND TRUSTEE AREA (IF APPLICABLE). AN EMPLOYEE OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT MAY NOT BE SWORN INTO OFFICE AS AN ELECTED OR APPOINTED MEMBER OF THE DISTRICT’S GOVERNING BOARD UNLESS AND UNTIL HE/SHE RESIGNS AS AN EMPLOYEE.
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515. Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
NOTICE OF ELECTION Elections Code Section 12112 LUCIA MAR UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a governing board member election will be held in the above-named district on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the purpose of electing Governing Board Members as submitted by the District: NUMBER TO BE ELECTED TERM OF OFFICE
– TRUSTEE AREA 3 4 YEARS
– TRUSTEE AREA 5 4 YEARS
ONE – TRUSTEE AREA 6 4 YEARS
ONE – TRUSTEE AREA 7 4 YEARS
QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:
SHALL BE A REGISTERED VOTER AND RESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT AND TRUSTEE AREA (IF APPLICABLE). AN EMPLOYEE OF A SCHOOL
DISTRICT MAY NOT BE SWORN INTO OFFICE AS AN ELECTED OR APPOINTED MEMBER OF THE DISTRICT’S GOVERNING BOARD
UNLESS AND UNTIL HE/SHE RESIGNS AS AN EMPLOYEE.
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805- 781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515.
Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
NOTICE OF ELECTION Elections Code Section 12112
AVILA BEACH COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT
FOR OFFICE:
SHALL BE A REGISTERED VOTER AND RESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT AND TRUSTEE AREA (IF APPLICABLE). AN EMPLOYEE OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT MAY NOT BE SWORN INTO OFFICE AS AN ELECTED OR APPOINTED MEMBER OF THE DISTRICT’S GOVERNING BOARD UNLESS AND UNTIL HE/SHE RESIGNS AS AN EMPLOYEE.
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515. Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a governing board member election will be held in the above-named district on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the purpose of electing Directors as submitted by the District: NUMBER TO BE ELECTED TERM OF OFFICE THREE – ELECTED AT-LARGE 4 YEARS QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE: SHALL BE A REGISTERED ELECTOR RESIDING WITHIN THE DISTRICT
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515.
Date: July 7, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 202
NOTICE OF ELECTION Elections Code Section 12112
OCEANO COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a governing board member election will be held in the above-named district on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the purpose of electing Directors as submitted by the District: NUMBER TO BE ELECTED TERM OF OFFICE
ONE – DIVISION 2 4 YEARS
–
FOR OFFICE:
SHALL BE A REGISTERED ELECTOR RESIDING WITHIN THE DISTRICT
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515. Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
YEARS QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE: SHALL BE A REGISTERED ELECTOR RESIDING WITHIN THE DISTRICT
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office. In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515.
Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
NOTICE OF ELECTION
Elections Code Section 12112
CAYUCOS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a governing board member election will be held in the above-named district on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the
of electing Governing Board Members as submitted by the
QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:
SHALL BE A REGISTERED VOTER AND RESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT AND TRUSTEE AREA (IF APPLICABLE). AN EMPLOYEE OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT MAY NOT BE SWORN INTO OFFICE AS AN ELECTED OR APPOINTED MEMBER OF THE DISTRICT’S GOVERNING BOARD UNLESS AND UNTIL HE/SHE RESIGNS AS AN EMPLOYEE.
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515.
Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
NOTICE OF ELECTION
Elections Code Section 12112
SANTA MARIA JOINT UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a governing board member election will be held in the above-named district on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the purpose of electing Governing Board Members as submitted by the District:
NUMBER TO BE ELECTED TERM OF OFFICE
ONE – TRUSTEE AREA 1 4 YEARS
QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:
SHALL BE A REGISTERED VOTER AND RESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT AND TRUSTEE AREA (IF APPLICABLE). AN EMPLOYEE OF A SCHOOL
DISTRICT MAY NOT BE SWORN INTO OFFICE AS AN ELECTED OR APPOINTED MEMBER OF THE DISTRICT’S GOVERNING BOARD UNLESS AND UNTIL HE/SHE RESIGNS AS AN EMPLOYEE.
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515.
Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
NOTICE OF ELECTION
Elections Code Section 12112
CAMBRIA COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a governing board member election will be held in the above-named district on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 for the purpose of electing Directors as submitted by the District:
NUMBER TO BE ELECTED TERM OF OFFICE
TWO – ELECTED AT-LARGE 4 YEARS QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:
SHALL BE A REGISTERED ELECTOR RESIDING WITHIN THE DISTRICT
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515.
Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
NOTICE OF ELECTION
Elections Code Section 12112 SQUIRE CANYON COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a governing board member election will be held in the above-named district on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 for the purpose of electing Directors as submitted by the District:
NUMBER TO BE ELECTED TERM OF OFFICE
TWO – ELECTED AT-LARGE 4 YEARS ONE – ELECTED AT-LARGE 2 YEARS QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE: SHALL BE A REGISTERED ELECTOR RESIDING WITHIN THE DISTRICT
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office.
In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515. Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA
CAYUCOS SANITARY DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a governing board member election will be held in the above-named district on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 for the purpose of electing Directors as submitted by the District: NUMBER TO BE ELECTED TERM OF OFFICE
4
YEARS QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE: SHALL BE A REGISTERED VOTER AND RESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT AND TRUSTEE AREA (IF APPLICABLE)
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office. In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number
2026
NOTICE OF ELECTION Elections Code Section 12112

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, the Pismo Beach Planning Commission will hold a public hearing in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 760 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, for the following purpose:
PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA:
A. Address: 0 Pier Avenue
Applicant: City of Pismo Beach
Project No.: P26-000071
Description: Coastal Development Permit for the repair and partial replacement of an existing storm drain outfall at Ocean Boulevard and Pier Avenue, including new corrugated metal piping and a concrete pier footing, and adopting Categorical Exemption 2026-012. The project is located within the Coastal Zone and is appealable to the Coastal Commission. Location: City ROW Ocean Boulevard at Pier Avenue
Environmental Review
In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), it has been determined that the project is exempt from the requirements of CEQA pursuant to Section 15301, 15302, and 15304 of the CEQA Guidelines regarding the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, replacement or reconstruction of existing structures and facilities where the new structure will be located on the same site as the structure replaced and will have substantially the same purpose and capacity as the structure replaced, and minor public or private alterations in the condition of land, water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of healthy, mature, scenic trees.
B. Address: 1700 Ocean Boulevard – Eldwayen Park
Applicant: City of Pismo Beach
Project No.: P26-000070
Description: Coastal Development Permit for the repair, relocation, and partial replacement of existing blufftop park improvements, including the removal of a concrete pathway and replacement with a decomposed granite pathway, and relocation of existing and placement of new park benches, and adopting Categorical Exemption 2026-013. The project is located within the Coastal Zone and is appealable to the Coastal Commission. APN 010-243-037 and City ROW at Ocean Boulevard
Environmental Review
In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), it has been determined that the project is exempt from the requirements of CEQA pursuant to Section 15301, 15302, and 15304 of the CEQA Guidelines regarding the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, replacement or reconstruction of existing structures and facilities where the new structure will be located on the same site as the structure replaced and will have substantially the same purpose and capacity as the structure replaced, and minor public or private alterations in the condition of land, water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of healthy, mature, scenic trees.
Free Will Astrology by Rob Brezsny
Homework: Do a ritual in which you vow to attract more blessings into your life. tinyurl.com/ommm777
ARIES
(March 21-April 19): In honor of the intensive homecoming phase of your astrological cycle, I have homework for you. 1. Make a prediction about how old you will be when you know precisely who you are. 2. Forecast the day when you will look in the mirror and recognize your face as an intricate portrait of every experience you have ever loved. 3. Imagine the dawn when the boundary between your own longing and life’s longing will dissolve, revealing they’ve always been the same current. 4. Predict when your heart will be as wild and free and brave as you have always wanted it to be.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20): Ornithologists studying migration know that some birds don’t fly directly to their destination. They follow “leading lines.” These are geographical features like coastlines and mountain ranges that provide orientation. Even when this means taking a longer route, the certainty of having a guiding landmark outweighs the efficiency of a straight line across nondescript terrain. I recommend the birds’ approach to you in the coming weeks, Taurus. Follow your own leading lines: practices and intuitions that provide lucid orientation even when they don’t offer shortcuts. The indirect path offers the surety you need.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 20): What’s an important truth you keep forgetting about? Maybe it’s a promise you once made to yourself, or an understanding that your younger self knew, or a wisdom your body keeps trying to communicate while your mind ignores it. What truth returns again and again in different guises: through synchronicities, seemingly random comments from friends, recurring dreams, or the same lesson repeating in new situations? What crucial insights about life do you remember during crisis or ecstasy, only to abandon them once normalcy returns? Now is a favorable time to fully recover this lesson and install it firmly at the heart of your life.
CANCER
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment to come in and obtain the Declaration of Candidacy.
The nomination period opens Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close at 5:00 PM, Friday, August 7, 2026. If the incumbent officer has not filed by August 7, 2026, the nomination period will be extended until Wednesday, August 12, 2026, for any person other than the incumbent to file for the office. In the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for each elective office, and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by law, appointment shall be made pursuant to Elections Code Section 10515. Date: July 6, 2026 ELAINA CANO, County Clerk-Recorder July 16, 2026
SANTA MARIA VALLEY WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a governing board member
REGISTERED VOTER OF THE DISTRICT
The Elections Division of the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 1055 Monterey Street, Suite D-120, San Luis Obispo, urges interested candidates to call our office at 805-781-5228 to make an appointment
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 July 23, 2026. 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 planningcommission@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 Community Development Department / Planning Division 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 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 Planning Division Office, by emailing Commission Clerk Brianna Whisenhunt at bwhisenhunt@pismobeach.org. The meeting agenda and staff report will be available no later than the Friday before the meeting and may be obtained upon request by mail or by visiting www.pismobeach.org/agenda. The Planning Commission meeting will be televised live on Charter Spectrum 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 Commission Clerk Brianna Whisenhunt at bwhisenhunt@pismobeach.org or 805-773-4658.
Brianna Whisenhunt Commission Clerk July 16, 2026
(June 21-July 22): Make a list of your five greatest pleasures. These are experiences that stir your senses, steady your pulse, and remind you why you love being alive. Write them down as if they were sacred prayers. Sing a spontaneous song of praise of them. Then set out on a quest to discover pleasure number six. This is a delight you have never tasted, touched, or imagined before. Maybe it will come from saying yes to a possibility you usually decline. Treat this experiment as a form of worship and a way to boost your devotion to your healing life force.
LEO
(July 23-Aug. 22): According to neuroscientists, the “default mode network” is the area of your brain that lights up when you’re daydreaming, drifting through thoughts and feelings, and letting your imagination roam around. This is when your deep self does crucial work: weaving memories into stories, making creative connections, rehearsing possible futures, and forging your sense of identity. I mention this, Leo, because the coming days will be prime time for you to indulge lavishly in this healing and restorative activity. Don’t let a task-obsessed world shame you out of your reveries. Your genius will bloom from their slowly swirling flow.
VIRGO
(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Here are three gentle nudges: 1. One of your trusty tools or assets still seems to be working fine, but I suggest you look into the possibility that it will soon need repair. 2. Unless you act proactively to ease the strain on your system, a mini-breakdown could be on the horizon. 3. The monster hiding in your closet is hibernating, which makes this the perfect time to summon an exorcist before it rouses. Here’s the very good news, dear Virgo: Because you are reading this oracle, you are now armed with all you need to stave off turmoil and head in the direction of an exciting renaissance.
LIBRA
(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Researchers who study improvisational jazz have found that master musicians often anticipate each other’s ideas milliseconds before anyone actually plays the notes. Their brains become exquisitely synchronized through deep listening rather than rigid planning. Maybe more than any other sign, you Libras possess a similar aptitude in managing your intimate alliances and social connections. In the coming weeks, this superpower will be even more necessary and available than usual. I’ll provide a reminder: Pay less attention to what people claim to mean and more attention to the rhythms beneath their words. Let your intuition guide you. The subtly shared timing will generate elegant cooperation.
SCORPIO
(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “It’s bad luck to be superstitious!” is a delightful paradox that I enjoy playing with. It makes fun of our tendency to believe that invisible forces are constantly keeping score on our behavior. On one level, the phrase pokes at the way superstition multiplies anxiety instead of easing it. If you really believed it’s bad luck to be superstitious, then your belief about bad luck would itself be a superstition. So you’d have to avoid the very thinking pattern you’re using to feel safer. It exposes how easily the mind can tie itself in knots trying to control the uncontrollable. On another level, “it’s bad luck to be superstitious” is an invitation to examine which of your little rituals are entertaining and nourishing and which are cages. Keeping a lucky stone in your pocket is fine if it amuses you, but believing you’re doomed if you don’t carry the stone isn’t so fine. My advice: Notice when your charm or taboo is no longer a quirky companion but starts being a tyrant that shrinks your freedom.
SAGITTARIUS
(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Are you the type of Sagittarius who pushes open doors with “pull” signs on them? Do you get a secret kick out of opening boxes from the end that says “open other side”? Maybe you even yack on your phone in designated quiet zones. If so, I’d like to suggest channeling your rebellious spark into grander acts. In the weeks ahead, you will be carrying some potent renegade energy. Used wisely, your radiant defiance could topple a stagnant situation that’s overdue for change.
CAPRICORN
(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Many healers favor the slow-and-steady path. They often meet with people once a week, trusting that even stubborn issues must be unwoven with patience and gentleness. But there are also bold experimenters who work differently. I know an acupuncturist who invites clients to live at her clinic for six days straight, offering a new treatment every two hours during the waking hours. She creates a healing immersion chamber. That’s the spirit I recommend for you in the coming weeks, Capricorn. You’re at the threshold of resolving a long-standing imbalance. What will serve you best isn’t dabbling at it but offering it focused, sustained, wholehearted attention until the shift activates.
AQUARIUS
(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You can refresh and boost your ambition if you give it a firm, precise adjustment sometime soon. Your raw vitality will surge back if you refrain from indulging in a careless habit that has been draining it. Your willpower and determination have been weakened by the fallout from an old misstep, but you now have the clarity needed to repair that error. Your libidinous energy is not as clear and potent as it could be, but it will become so once you get more honest about what truly excites you.
PISCES
(Feb. 19-March 20): You’re like an arrow that has been shot from a bow and is three-quarters of the way to the target. You’re a delicious meal still simmering on the stove, or a pregnancy at seven months, or the last two weeks before a major election. When I tuned my inner vision to you, I glimpsed a honeybee wriggling a dance to show its coworkers where a stand of blooming lilac awaits. Have you ever been on the verge of speaking a new language with ease? That’s where you are now, Pisces: just before true fluency clicks. ∆

