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Wake Up Dead Man: another worthy whodunit [24]
Finding fugitives Santa Barbara County tackles arrest warrants with focus on most violent felonies [6] BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
NEWS
Local cemeteries need help [4]
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A dance studio celebrates 40 [22]
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Your Dream Home Awaits!
DECEMBER 18 - DECEMBER 25, 2025 VOL. 26 NO. 43
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n June, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted to disband the Sheriff’s Office Cannabis Compliance Team, freeing up deputies for other priorities—including reducing the number of outstanding violent felony arrest warrants with the help of a new felony warrant detective. The detective has investigated six “high-profile targets” so far, according to the Sheriff’s Office. At the same time, the Sheriff’s Office is working to reduce the number of low-level misdemeanor warrants by asking a judge to dismiss them. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood writes about the issue [6]. Also, read about what’s happening with local cemeteries [4]; Fossemalle Dance Studio’s four decades in Santa Ynez [22]; and a Solvang wellness company’s wild salts, herb blends, and teas [25]. Camillia Lanham editor
STANDOFF: In August, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office cleared one of its felony warrants after a four-hour standoff in Santa Maria led to the arrest of a wanted man.
Cover photo courtesy of Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office > Cover design by Alex Zuniga
NEWS
News Briefs ...............................................................................4 Political Watch.........................................................................4 Spotlight...................................................................................... 7
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www.santamariasun.com • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • Sun • 3
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➤ Hide and seek [6]
December 18 - December 25, 2025
➤ Spotlight [7] FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF SUZANNE DE ST. JEAN
POLITICAL WATCH • The House of Representatives recently passed U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal’s (D-Santa Barbara) legislation to rename a post office in Goleta for Frederick Lopez, a retired brigadier general in the U.S. Marine Corps with a 30-year career of distinguished service. “General Lopez represents the best of the Central Coast and of our nation’s armed forces,” Carbajal said in a Dec. 10 statement. “I’m proud that the House has voted to honor his legacy by renaming the South Patterson Avenue Post Office in Goleta in his name, ensuring that future generations will be reminded of his extraordinary contributions to our community and our country.” A Santa Barbara County native, Lopez joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1967 following his graduation from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. His service as a platoon commander during the Vietnam War earned him a Bronze Star and Combat Action Ribbon. Throughout the course of his three decades as a Marine, Lopez also earned a Distinguished Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and other decorations prior to his retirement in 1998. • On Dec. 12, U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-California) issued a statement in response to President Donald Trump’s executive order to preempt state laws that establish guardrails on AI technology. “The president has the power to help develop this technology while protecting a state’s right to protect its own citizens. Instead, he has chosen to try and preempt state laws that are establishing meaningful safeguards around AI and replace them with nothing,” Schiff stated. “It’s no wonder leaders from both parties, including Republican governors, have spoken out against this policy.” While Congress and the federal government “should certainly take the lead on crafting the rules of the road for this revolutionary technology,” Schiff added, “in the absence of federal legislative action, the states can and must exercise the power they have to protect their residents.” • U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) recently urged the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) to move forward with its investigation into Hatch Act violations committed by senior Trump administration officials at the White House and U.S. Department of Justice who have repeatedly pressured states to redistrict for partisan gain. In a Dec. 9 letter, Padilla noted that it is illegal under the Hatch Act for executive branch officials to use their public office to advance partisan political activities, which could include a partisan midcycle redistricting effort to advantage a political party. “Throughout the year, White House senior officials and others in the Trump administration have been clearly and openly engaged in a political campaign to gain seats for the Republican Party in Congress via a rare and controversial mid-decade redistricting efforts in Texas and many other states,” Padilla wrote. “Your offices have a duty to act, not only to ensure that administration officials follow the law, but to protect these public servants across the country from bearing the brunt of this apparently illegal activity in the current heighted political threat environment.” The letter is a follow-up to Padilla’s original inquiry to the OSC about an investigation in July. In response to Padilla’s previous letter, the Hatch Act Unit at the OSC confirmed in July that it would open a file to address this potential violation. However, the OSC had yet to provide an update as of Dec. 9, according to Padilla’s office. Padilla’s latest letter highlights recent evidence that White House officials are illegally using encrypted, private messaging services like Signal that automatically delete conversations in their partisan redistricting pressure campaign, which violates federal records laws. m
WATCHFUL GUARDIAN: The Santa Barbara County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) recently discussed budget statistics collected over the past three years related to local cemetery districts, including the Santa Maria Cemetery.
LAFCO highlights struggling cemetery districts Hoping to clear the cobwebs around an ongoing issue plaguing Central Coast cemeteries, the Santa Barbara County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) wants to explore the possibility of consolidating some of those cemetery districts. In its 2025 review of countywide municipal services, LAFCO staff highlighted a handful of cemetery districts, including Oak Hill Cemetery in Ballard and Los Alamos Cemetery, facing budget constraints due to limited tax allocations and land availability. “We identified some of the challenges that some of these cemeteries have, often related to the amount of revenue they receive and the ability to retain staff,” LAFCO Executive Officer Mike Prater said at the commission’s Dec. 11 meeting. Prater recommended a future study to see if consolidating some services between Los Alamos Cemetery and Santa Maria Cemetery, and Oak Hill Cemetery and Goleta Cemetery, respectively, could benefit all four districts through certain incentives and responsibility shifts. However, pushing revisions of this kind forward would take coordination between Santa Barbara County and the impacted cemeteries to an extent beyond LAFCO’s jurisdiction, Prater added. “To be able to resolve those down the road, that’s where it takes the effort largely probably of a district supervisor getting in contact with the cemetery districts and their boards and having those conversations,” Prater said. LAFCO Commissioner and 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson expressed interest in stepping up to the plate. “These are important resources in our communities,” Nelson said. “I actually cut my teeth in government by serving on the Santa Maria cemetery board. … That one’s near and dear to my heart.” Nelson asked Prater about the best way to get the ball rolling on exploring consolidation options. “[Do] I need to do something as a county supervisor—in my other hat—to start to have some of those conversations, … about potential consolidation?” Nelson said. “We probably shouldn’t wait until there’s some kind of calamity.” It would be up to an impacted agency—either Santa Barbara County or one of the cemetery districts—to explore taking that route, Prater explained.
4 • Sun • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com
“An affected agency could be the county. So on behalf of them, you could suggest changes,” Prater said. “Ultimately, any boundary changes that come forward have to come forward from either the district itself or an affected agency.” Prater added that LAFCO would still “play a role” during those potential coordinated efforts. “We’ll sit as a partner alongside county representatives and/or cemetery representatives to help facilitate what those discussions might look like,” he said. “But, ultimately, either of those two entities have to sort of be the proponent and applicant for any real change.” —Caleb Wiseblood
More cultural arts programming is headed to Santa Maria-Bonita schools Starting in January, students at 15 elementary schools will have the opportunity to join a ballet folklórico dance program after school. The Santa Maria-Bonita School District board approved a roughly $59,000 contract with Children’s Creative Project at the Dec. 10 meeting. “By securing these services, we demonstrate our commitment to providing students with
high quality, culturally relevant art instruction,” the district’s director of teaching and learning supplemental programs, Laurie Graack, told the board. Twice a week after school, 40 students from each campus will participate in a 90-minute workshop. They’ll learn about Mexican dance, music, art, and storytelling, spending half of each session dancing the traditional ballet folklórico in costumes and hats, Graack explained in her presentation. The program will last for 10 weeks at each campus. Five schools will begin the program in January, five in March, and the last five will start in late April, Graack added. Principals of Santa Maria-Bonita’s 17 elementary sites filled out a survey that the district sent to gauge interest about the workshop and scheduling preferences. Two schools are already offering ballet folklórico programs of their own. “We think probably it’s going to be reasonable to say, ‘We’re not going to get you this time. We’ll catch you next year,’” Graack said about the two sites. “We’ll figure out a way to meet as many requests as we can.” After Graack’s presentation, board member John Hollinshead spoke up about including more education on Mixteco cultures. Hollinshead said his questions were informed by attending a Mixteco seminar earlier that afternoon. “We seem to repetitively or repeatedly contract with the same people to provide the same cultural outreach, and I don’t mean this to be disrespectful,” Hollinshead said. “When you hear about all the different cultural things that are happening or happen in Mexico, … I feel like we need to maybe start looking at some of those things to validate our Mixteco students as well.” Graack responded that the district is communicating with the nonprofit Corazón del Pueblo to incorporate indigenous education in after-school programs and daily instruction. “I think you’ll start to see those things rolling out in the school day and in our expanded learning offerings,” Graack said. Board member Ricardo Valencia emphasized that it’s important for the district to have a close partnership with Corazón del Pueblo. Even in ballet folklórico, certain Mexican states may be left out of the conversation “inadvertently or through cultural bias,” Valencia said. Children’s Creative Project is a program through the Santa Barbara County Office of Education. The contract sum includes all the supplies and costumes for students, which the district will keep and reuse when possible.
NEWS continued page 5 PHOTO COURTESY OF SANTA MARIA-BONITA SCHOOL DISTRICT
CUE THE MUSIC: Santa Maria-Bonita School District board members approved a contract to bring more ballet folklórico workshops to hundreds of students, like this performance at Jimenez Elementary in November.
News you’ve taken had been successful and if further measures were required,” said Rohrer, the sole public speaker during the item. The program, known for connecting students Rohrer suggested looking for a contractor with with professional artists, will be responsible lower prices if funding the tests was an issue. for clearing and hiring the instructors. Staffing “I do agree that it’s outlandishly expensive costs are also included in the contract. and it might be worthwhile looking for another Graack said the goal is to start the workshop vendor,” she said, “or at least try to get more at all the district’s sites, but it wasn’t yet feasible competitive pricing because you seem to be because the academic year is halfway over. In paying a rather astronomical amount for this future years, the district intends to renew the testing.” contract for all 21 schools. The CSD ultimately directed Savage to reach —Madison White out to its groundwater well testing contractor, Los Olivos CSD considers GSI Water Solutions, about shifting over to an test to gauge Los Olivos’ nitrate levels. testing groundwater wells annual At the CSD’s Dec. 10 meeting, Savage once a year returned with input from GSI as well as the California State Water Resources Control A local agency’s decision to postpone one of Board. Los Olivos’ regularly scheduled groundwater GSI maintained that the CSD should well tests—used to measure nitrate continue twice a year in order to measure concentration levels—opened the floodgates nitrate levels during a dry season (summer) as to a different kind of monitoring for resident well as a wet season (winter). Kathryn Lohmeyer Rohrer. The state board “noted a clear preference” for “It seems problematic on several fronts,” the biannual model as well, Savage said. Rohrer said during public comment at the Los According to the CSD’s staff report, the state Olivos Community Services District’s (CSD) board “may need to issue a directive to the Nov. 12 meeting. district in order to ensure testing is continued.” During that hearing, the CSD asked General CSD Vice President Lisa Palmer asked Savage Manager Guy Savage to cancel its biannual about the possibility of getting financial relief November test, which would have marked from the state board for future tests. its second of the year. Board members also “We need the data, but the water board has as directed Savage to look into reducing its tests— vested an interest as we do,” Palmer said. which each cost the CSD about $16,000— from Savage said that type of funding wasn’t twice a year to once a year. discussed during his talk with the water board “Since literally the formation of your agency, but added that he’ll return one of the main pillars of with answers about a similar your purpose was to conduct funding request that the CSD groundwater monitoring so sent to Santa Barbara County that you could understand Send any news Environmental Services (EHS) the location and the nature of or story tips to in early December. m the problem, and also be able news@santamariasun.com. to measure whether the steps —Caleb Wiseblood
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SECURING THE AREA: One of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office’s new felony fugitive detective’s investigations into the whereabouts of a wanted Santa Maria man led to his arrest in August after a four-hour standoff.
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Hide and seek Sheriff’s Office felony fugitive detective works to lower Santa Barbara County’s tally of outstanding warrants
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obbery. Carjacking. Assault with a deadly weapon. Brandishing a firearm. Several outstanding felony warrants were stacked against Victor Manuel Ayala Sanchez on the day of his arrest in Santa Maria Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office deputies took the 30-year-old into custody in mid-August after a four-hour standoff outside of Sanchez’s residence on East Sunset Avenue. A crisis negotiation team and K9 unit were among the department’s resources that assisted deputies with evacuating other occupants of the house, including a child, and verbally calling out to Sanchez to surrender. They eventually found him hiding in his attic. Unlike some past instances of Santa Barbara County’s apprehension of individuals wanted for outstanding warrants, Sanchez’s arrest wasn’t by chance, 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino said. “We’re being way more proactive and … not just hoping and praying that we run into somebody,” Lavagnino told the Sun. “Now we have somebody actively going after these folks.” Lavagnino was referring to the Sheriff’s Office’s new felony fugitive detective, whose role is to help clear the county’s backlog of outstanding warrants, starting with a total of 400 for violent crimes. The county’s current total for all outstanding felony warrants is about 2,000. Setting clear goals for shortening that tally in order of most violent crimes to less serious offenses marks a positive step forward for local law enforcement, said Lavagnino, who’s lobbied for reform within the county’s handling of outstanding warrants for nearly two years. “Let’s focus on the people we should be focusing on, and that is the most dangerous, first. It’s pretty easy to work the list like that because you start off with the most heinous crimes and work your way down,” Lavagnino said. “Through this process, we figured out we’re not chasing 1,800, we’re chasing 400.” In June, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted to essentially swap out one
6 • Sun • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com
of the Sheriff’s Office’s past prioritized tasks— enforcing against illegal cannabis grows—for an increased effort to reduce outstanding felony warrants. The board’s unanimous vote disbanded the Sheriff’s Office Cannabis Compliance Team and transferred its members to different units. One transferred deputy became the new felony warrant detective, part of the Special Investigations Bureau. Since the role’s creation five months ago, the assigned detective has spearheaded multiple investigations into outstanding felony warrants, including the one that led to the Santa Maria standoff in August, Sheriff’s Office Cmdr. Erik Raney told the Sun via email. Sanchez was among six “high-profile targets” the detective investigated so far, using surveillance and other resources to help pinpoint suspects’ locations. “Several are still active investigations with the wanted persons still outstanding,” Raney said. “Several of the others led to the arrest of the wanted subject.” Raney did not specify to the Sun how many of the six identified targets, aside from Sanchez, had been apprehended by authorities to date. Lavagnino said he’s also hoping to hear more specifics about the warrant detective’s pursuits in the future via quarterly updates to the Board of Supervisors. The first of these reports took place during the board’s Dec. 9 meeting. “That’s what I want to hear more about. I want to get into the details. I don’t want to know the person’s name and all that kind of stuff. But, ‘Hey, what happened? What was the outcome? … What exactly is going on?’” Lavagnino told the Sun. “Hopefully in our next update we can include more of those types of details.” During the Dec. 9 update, Raney told the board that the Sheriff’s Office warrant detective often acquires separate warrants for cellphone data, bank records, and other resources, combined with taking part in surveillance tactics, to help track down a suspect’s whereabouts.
“In the first quarter we conducted six of these types of operations,” Raney told the board. “His sole focus is on locating and coordinating the apprehension of the most serious and violent offenders who are actively working to avoid the criminal justice system. “And while that detective does go out and take part in apprehensions,” Raney continued, “he’s not solely going out as a solo deputy knocking on doors and putting handcuffs on individuals. Once his investigation reveals the location of a wanted subject, he’s coordinating with the appropriate resources to get that person into custody.” Another form of coordination county officials discussed during the update was aimed at reducing the backlog of outstanding misdemeanor warrants, through what county Assistant District Attorney Kelly Duncan described as a “robust warrant purge process.” “We’ve decided to take a look at all of the 9,000-plus warrants and identify those less serious cases for which we could seek batch dismissal of,” Duncan told the board. “Our first round, we focused on all vehicle code violations that did not include any alcohol or impaired driving offenses. Our first batch submitted to the court included 272 warrants for dismissal.” While the District Attorney’s Office is working on additional batches to submit to the court, the first batch is awaiting final approval for dismissal, Duncan added. Lavagnino told the Sun he believes the proposed batch dismissals will help the county better handle pursuing felony warrants in the long run. “We’re not just getting everything expunged. We’re talking low-level stuff,” Lavagnino said about the misdemeanors up for possible dismissal. “And honestly that’s the stuff that’s cramming up the court system, and we’re spending less time actually adjudicating some of these serious offenses.” He added that he feels “assured that we’re not wiping out anybody that’s committed a violent offense.” “The more we get all that other stuff out of the way that is considered low-end,” he continued, “the more it provides us … plenty of time to focus on the violent offenders.” m Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.
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SPOTLIGHT COURTESY PHOTO BY CIERA PLETT
“Yoga is for anyone. A lot of people immediately associate it with a workout. Really, it’s a philosophy. There’s so many layers to it,” Majewski said. “I just feel like it’s untapped in that aspect of people realizing I can teach a one-hour class every week and you can learn something new about this philosophy, as opposed to just getting in here to sweat and get out.” There are even options for ages younger than 4 to give yoga a try at Oak Folk Studio as long as a parent or guardian joins. On Dec. 22 and 23, the studio will host “sneak peek” programs that allow kids to sample the venue’s yoga offerings without making a monthlong commitment, which is asked of those who register for regular weekly classes. Majewski will also host art and drama sneak peeks throughout the weekend as well. “For the same ages, I did line them up back-to-back,” Majewski explained, “so they can try everything if they want.” Ages 4 to 6, for TREE PROSE: Certified yoga therapist and former public school example, can sample art teacher Katlin Majewski envisioned Oak Folk Studio, which she opened at noon, drama at 12:30 in Orcutt in November, as a multi-faceted, family-friendly space for kids p.m., and yoga at 1 p.m. to enjoy painting sessions, improv workshops, yoga classes, and more. on Dec. 22, while ages 7 to 12 have a similar block of sneak peeks to consider the following afternoon. Registration info and more details are available online Oak Folk Studio combines kid-friendly yoga, at oakfolkstudio.com. Some of Majewski’s improv, painting, and more in Orcutt goals include encouraging BY CALEB WISEBLOOD kids to branch out of their comfort zones by trying new things, while also reducing their ovement and mindfulness go hand in hand screen time, she said. at Oak Folk Studio, where self-expression “So much of the day is on the computer now, takes on many forms for many ages. Since its soft opening in November, the eclectic and I get it, … everything has its pros and cons,” Majewski said at her studio desk, sitting in front Orcutt venue has hosted kid-friendly classes in of her own keyboard and monitor. “But I love art, performing arts, and yoga. being able to provide a space that’s a little bit “I feel like they all kind of weave together,” more analog.” founder, owner, and instructor Katlin Majewski While the building’s back room is full of told the Sun. “I love them all, and as much as I arts and crafts materials that Majewski can thought about focusing on one, I want the variety, … and to be able to offer up the community a lot of conveniently wheel out to the front area for different things that I don’t think we’ve had before.” workshop offerings, her improv classes rely more on imagination than anything you’ll find in her A former public school teacher, Majewski set supply cupboards. out to create a hub for activities—from painting MUSIC It’s a lot of getting out of “It’s a lot of games. and sewing to drama and improv workshops— your shell, building confidence,” she said. “One that children could enjoy outside of their regular of the No. 1 fears is public speaking. So, can we school schedules. FLAVOR/EATS break that early?” She realized her vision for Oak Folk Studio in a spacious storefront that used to be an eyeglass Highlight showroom, at 4850 S. Bradley Road, suite B, in INFO Orcutt’s Oak Knolls Shopping Center. •The Association of Chamber of Commerce “We ended up changing everything, but in the Executives (ACCE) included Molly Alves, vice moment of walking in, I could just see it. I really president of operations CALENDAR and membership with the liked the layout, how it was kind of just this big Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce, in open space,” Majewski said. “When I saw the its latest 40 Under 40 list. The annual program OPINIONindustry leaders hailing building, I saw the layout being a good fit for what recognizes chamber we wanted to do. … I could see the yoga mats from different states across the country. Read lined up.” about Alves’ placement in the 2025 roundup NEWS A certified yoga therapist, Majewski designed online at magazine.acce.org, which describes her her yoga programs for as positioning Santa Maria’s younglings, with different age chamber as “a true catalyst for STROKES groups that range between economic vitality.” m Send business and ages 4 to 12, with less of a nonprofit information to workout in mind than what’s ARTSReach Senior Staff Writer Caleb spotlight@santamariasun.com. commonly expected at many Wiseblood at cwiseblood@ yoga studios. santamariasun.com.
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Opinion ONLINE POLL
What should be done about unpermitted street vendors? 57%
Change state laws so the county can collect fines and enforce citations. 29% Nothing—everyone knows they eat from such vendors at their own risk. 14% The county’s new task force will be able to enforce the rules. 0% The CHP should impound illegal food sellers’ vehicles.
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COMMENTARY
➤ Canary [10]
Her story is our story Migrant Mother’s legacy invites us to see the faces of poverty among us today
BY JOHN B. ASHBAUGH
H
reporter persuaded her to tell the story of the Migrant Mother. er name was Florence Owens. She was 32 This holiday season is a good time to reflect on when she, her companion, Jim Hill; and her story. her seven children arrived in Nipomo in Migrant Mother is believed to be the most February 1936. It was a cold, wintery afternoon widely replicated photograph ever taken. The in the depths of the Great Depression, the worst nation responded to the image of the Migrant economic crisis our nation had ever known. Mother with extraordinary generosity. That Their car had just broken down, and Jim went response speaks volumes about who we were as a looking for parts to repair it. As Florence and her nation at that time. youngest children cowered in a makeshift lean-to In February 1936, when Dorothea Lange visited in a migrant labor camp, she was approached by that “pea pickers camp” in Nipomo, Franklin Dorothea Lange, a photographer on assignment Roosevelt had been president almost exactly three from President Franklin Roosevelt. years. He was facing a major challenge in the Lange captured six images of this struggling upcoming election in November, only a few short family, pictures that would change the world. months away. One of those images became known as Migrant FDR’s “brain trust” had employed Dorothea Mother, and Owens’ face came to represent the Lange and a team of professional publicists to nation’s trauma of the Great Depression. document the desperate conditions in migrant She was born in Oklahoma in 1903; her labor camps and “Hoovervilles” that had Cherokee father was absent, and she was raised sprung up all across the American landscape as by her white mother. She married in 1921, but unemployment soared and millions sank into husband Cleo Owens died in 1931; since then, poverty. she and her children had sought work as migrant In spite of his best efforts and a supportive farm laborers. Congress, unemployment was still stubbornly Ultimately, she transcended those forlorn high—more than 15 percent in March 1936. circumstances: She found better employment But Roosevelt didn’t try to “spin” the news, to and in 1952 she remarried, taking the name of assure the nation that all was well. Instead, FDR her new husband, George Thompson, a hospital dispatched photographers, writers, and artists administrator. Together, they raised a loving to all corners of the nation to tell the story of our family with many children and grandchildren. MUSIC continued suffering. Still, she resented the fact that her face Within days of the Migrant Mother photograph had become so widely known, all because a appearing in The San Francisco News, federal government photographer had found her on FLAVOR/EATS agencies delivered 20,000 tons of food for the what might have been the worst day of her life. desperate migrants camped here on the Nipomo She believed that Lange had earned royalties Mesa. WithinINFO a few months, SLO County schools on her image, but she prized her privacy: For Assistant Superintendent Al Rhodes had funded a four full decades, nobody knew that she was the school for the children of those laborers. Migrant Mother. CALENDAR The people of this county, the By the time Florence Owens state, and the nation responded Thompson died in 1983 at the to that face with extraordinary age of 80, her life had taken a OPINION unity, determined to finally different turn. Five years earlier, Send us your grapple with the staggering levels her identity had been disclosed views and opinion to NEWS of poverty that had plagued the to the world: After 40 years letters@santamariasun.com. nation for far too long. of anonymity, a Modesto Bee
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Speak up!
STROKES
ARTS
FDR would be reelected in November 1936 with the greatest Electoral College majority ever achieved. He knew how to inspire skilled journalists like Dorothea Lange to compose a picture of America not as he wanted to see it, but as it really was. In that era, our federal government was committed to knowing the truth. Roosevelt wanted desperately to know us, and he wanted all of us to know America as we truly are. We now know something about Florence Owens Thompson—and that’s why people gathered at the Dana Cultural Center on Nov. 15: To honor her, and to honor Dorothea Lange for being there to capture the moment, the mood, the anxiety etched on her face. Led by retired Judkins Middle School teacher Terry Handy, together we dedicated a new bronze plaque carrying her image and her story. The plaque will soon be placed near the site of that long-abandoned pea-picker’s camp on the Nipomo Mesa. As we acknowledge that important event, we also recognize that everywhere people are enormously anxious about the economy. It’s highly doubtful, however, that we’ll learn the truth from this administration, or from corporate media, about the challenges we are facing. We may never get the jobs report for October. Who can trust this administration to tell the truth about jobs or inflation in the months ahead? Congress is piling on with massive cuts to the social safety net that has sustained millions of Americans for decades, in good times as well as bad: • The Big Beautiful Bill that passed last summer (H.R. 1) triggers significant cuts—almost 49 percent—to several USDA programs, including the Emergency Food Assistance program that has historically provided about $1.2 million in support annually for our SLO County Food Bank. • Reductions in SNAP (CalFresh) benefit programs—laborious paperwork requirements and limits on eligibility—will force thousands more SLO County families to make use of the Food Bank as they lose SNAP benefits. • These same families are squeezed by the loss of eligibility for other federal benefits such as Medicaid, health care, child care, and rental assistance. In 1936, Americans needed to see the face of Florence Owens Thompson—and in 2025, we need the truth about the millions of Americans suffering from the neglect of our ruling oligarchy. We need to see the faces of that poverty and the pain of that loss. m Respond to John Ashbaugh with a commentary of your own by sending it to letters@ santamariasun.com.
LETTER Let’s get rid of nuclear power and weapons
On the controversies surrounding Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant, it would be most wise to move things rapidly toward decommissioning and safety protocols as this aging dinosaur becomes more susceptible to a serious accident. The machinery is becoming more brittle and weak, further increasing the chance of a serious accident. And let’s not forget the chance of a large seismic event someday in our future. Please shut this plant down and make serious solutions to stabilizing the spent fuel pool. Someday we can relax and move on to cleaner and safer energy production as California rids itself of nuclear-powered energy. Furthermore, the U.S. should also seriously lead the world in decommissioning nuclear related missiles, bombs, and weapons before the inevitable occurs.
John Edwards San Luis Obispo
8 • Sun • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com
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Opinion
The squeaky wheel
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t seems like the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office is working to course correct when it comes to the number of outstanding arrest warrants—something 5th District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino has been asking for. After he expressed concerns about the issue during a Northern Branch Jail expansion discussion in April—which will cost $165 million, by the way—he vowed to bring it up again during budget conversations. Without a warrant apprehension team, he said, law enforcement just happens to get lucky in arresting people who have felony or misdemeanor warrants. As in, a routine traffic stop magically becomes more by happenstance. Nice. The wheels of justice work with a little luck and a lot of circumstance. In June, as part of those budget discussions, county supes voted to disband the Sheriff’s Office’s Cannabis Compliance Team, “redistributing the manpower where it’s most needed,” Lavagnino said at the time. Unlawful grows had declined and so had the tax dollars cannabis pays to fund things like compliance. So those deputies were reassigned to things like narcotics, and one was turned into a one-man felony warrant detective team. “If you’re persistent and you believe in something, just keep hammering at it. Eventually, I think everybody finally saw the writing on the wall that I wasn’t going to go away on this issue,” Lavagnino said at the time. “I’m just glad we’re finally going to address what I think was a glaring hole in our justice system.” In just a few months, the county’s slow-ass bureaucracy moved with quite the pace. Similar to how quickly the county moved with the senior mobile home park overlay to maintain affordable
mobile home parks for seniors, government can move fast when it wants to! Or when a squeaky wheel stays squeaky. So far, the detective has focused on six “highprofile” peeps with felony warrants for alleged violent offenses. For instance, a Santa Maria man arrested in August has warrants for robbery, carjacking, assault with a deadly weapon, and brandishing a firearm. After a four-hour standoff at his home, deputies took the dude into custody. “He’s not solely going out as a solo deputy knocking on doors and putting handcuffs on individuals,” Sheriff’s Office Cmdr. Erik Raney said. “He’s coordinating with the appropriate resources to get that person into custody.” Better to be organized about it and coordinate with others than to accidentally pull someone like that over by yourself, you know? With about 2,000 outstanding felony warrants (That seems like a lot, right?), the one-man team (with help when its go-time, of course) is focusing on 400 with the most violent crimes. “We’re being way more proactive and … not just hoping and praying that we run into somebody,” Lavagnino said. That’s valid, Steve! I guess it’s better to start small and grow. With 400 warrants to tackle and six that have been worked on in the last six months, Santa Barbara County has a long way to go! Hopefully, the oneman team gets some research partners, otherwise it’s going to take more than 30 years to find all of those people! And that’s only if no one else does anything too violent or crazy, then becomes a fugitive. Keep on squeaking, Steve! m The Canary stays squeaky. Send comments to canary@santamariasun.com.
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Hot Stuff
10-DAY CALENDAR: DECEMBER 18 - DECEMBER 28, 2025
OAK FOLK
Oak Folk Studio in Santa Maria will host its first Holiday Creative Market on Sunday, Dec. 21, from noon to 3 p.m. Makers are welcome to see candles, art, baked goods, jewelry, and more at this festive, creative event. Additional details can be found at oakfolkstudio.com. —Angie Stevens
PHOTO COURTESY OF OAK FOLK STUDIO
ARTS SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS
BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. (805) 928-7799. Kleindancesarts.com. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria. DANCE CLASSES There are weekly dance classes, from ages 2 to adult, at KleinDance Arts . Mondays-Saturdays, 4-8 p.m. (805) 268-2530. kleindancearts.com. KleinDance Arts, 1954 S Broadway, Suite J, Santa Maria. DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, (805) 937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/. GUADALUPE 10 COMIC SHOWCASE Guadalupe Social Club and Ezra’s Rockin Entertainment present a loaded night with over 10 of the Central Coasts funniest comedians all gathering for your postholiday laughs! Seating is very limited for this intimate show. Dec. 26, 8 p.m. $23.27. my805tix.com. Guadalupe Social Club, 945 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe. PCPA PRESENTS ‘DISNEY’S FROZEN THE BROADWAY MUSICAL For the first time in forever, Disney’s Frozen comes to life on the PCPA stage! The worldwide Broadway sensation, based on the Academy Award-winning animated film, brings dazzling life to the beloved story of two royal sisters bound by love, challenged by secrets, and destined to discover the power of being true to themselves. Through Dec. 21 $25. (805) 922-8313. pcpa.org. PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria.
SAUL TRUJILLO AT GIAFUNNI’S Don’t miss the superstar stand-up comic Saul Trujillo, who will grace the stage at Giavanni’s Pizza in Orcutt, featuring UnPaquito and Jessica Tovar. Dec. 27, 8 p.m. $33.98. my805tix.com. Giavanni’s Pizza, 1108 E Clark Ave, Orcutt, (805) 934-8555. VALLEY ART GALLERY: ROTATING DISPLAYS Featured artists of Santa Maria’s Valley Art Gallery frequently display their works at the airport. Check website for details on monthly exhibits and full list of the gallery’s artists. ongoing valleygallery.org. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria. WORKSHOP: VISION BOARD WORKSHOP Join for a cozy vision-board workshop for different ages. Reflect, manifest goals, and collage dreams for the new year. Dec. 27, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $44. (805) 270-3278. oakfolkstudio.com. Oak Folk Studio, 4850 South Bradley Road, Suite B, Santa Maria. SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y
WILD IN CALIFORNIA SOLO EXHIBITION See the exhibition Wild in California, a solo exhibition by Museum Founder, conservation advocate, and artist Patti Jacquemain. A array of woodcut prints and mosaics will be showcased, highlighting the bioregions and species that make up California’s rich biodiversity. Through Feb. 23, 2026 calnatureartmuseum.org/news/wildin-california-2025. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang. LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
A COMMEDIA CHRISTMAS CAROL In this faithful adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic, a traveling troupe of Commedia Del Arte players recreate the Victorian World of “A Christmas Carol”. Dec. 19,
7:30-8:45 p.m., Dec. 20, 7:30-8:45 p.m. and Dec. 21, 2-3:15 p.m. $10. Stone Pine Hall, 210 South H St., Lompoc, (805) 7363888, lompocmuseum.org/pine.php. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y
FREE MOVIE NIGHT IN THE SECRET GARDEN: ELF Bring a blanket and grab your favorite Secret Garden snacks! There will be wood-fired pizzas, fresh seasonal salads, classic movie snacks, and popcorn available for purchase. Dec. 19, 5:30 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, (805) 595-7302. FRIENDS OF THE ARROYO GRANDE LIBRARY ART AUCTION The first ever art auction fundraiser for Friends of the AG Library is now live. Includes work by local artist Ellen November. Every 30 days, 9 a.m. (310) 384-6912. app.galabid.com/ aglibrary/items. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande. AN IRISH CHRISTMAS An Irish Christmas brings dazzling dance, beloved carols, and pure holiday joy—featuring stars from Riverdance and seen nationwide on PBS. Be Irish this Christmas! Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 20, 2 p.m. $32-$60, Premium $70. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/shows/ an-irish-christmas/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. PULSE STUDIO OF THE ARTS PRESENTS: THE BEAT BEGINS This debut performance marks the first-ever dance show by Pulse Studio of the Arts — a showcase of hard work, dedication, and love for movement. Dec. 18, 7 p.m. $35. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. VILLAGE CREATIVE PRESENTS:
New Times and the Sun now share their community listings for a complete Central Coast calendar running from SLO County through northern Santa Barbara County. Submit events online by logging in with your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account at newtimesslo.com. You may also email calendar@newtimesslo.com. Deadline is one week before the issue date on Thursdays. Submissions are subject to editing and approval. Contact Calendar Editor Angelena Stevens directly at astevens@newtimesslo.com. 12 • Sun • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com
CHRISTMAS CONCERT 2025 Village Creative is a local creative arts studio based in the charming village of Arroyo Grande. Dec. 20, 3-4 & 5-6 p.m. $15. (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. SAN LUIS OBISPO
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, San Luis Obispo. ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER Bring the whole family to see the hilarious chaos when the Herdman children take over the annual church Christmas pageant. Dec. 19, 7 p.m., Dec. 20, 2 & 7 p.m. and Dec. 21, 6 p.m. $12.56. my805tix.com. Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo. BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR
INDEX Arts.......................................12 Culture & Lifestyle ...........13 Food & Drink ......................18 Music ...................................18
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. CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/baby-handprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 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. PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com). Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Locations countywide, San Luis Obispo. SIJI KRISHNAN Krishnan’s evocative paintings exist in a realm between memory and myth, where figures emerge from translucent layers of pigment. Through Jan. 11, 2026, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ siji-krishnan/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors. To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/.
Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO SHOW On display now through mid-April. ongoing slogallery.com/. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y
A CHRISTMAS STORY: SCREENING FUNDRAISER FOR LOS OSOS CARES Enjoy this screening of the classic Christmas movie, while supporting the underserved community of Estero Bay. Visit site for tickets and more info. Dec. 23, 5:30 p.m. $15. my805tix.com. Bay Theatre, 464 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay. GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS CAROL ASTAIRE: OIL PAINTING See luminous ocean paintings by Carol Astaire inspired by many years exploring California’s coast by kayak and on foot. Gallery is open daily. Through Dec. 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 JEFF ODELL: OIL PAINTING Morro Bay plein air artist Jeff Odell captures 30 years of coastal beauty with lush, textured oils. Gallery is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Through Dec. 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 SANDRA LISI: BLOCK PRINTING & SMALL WORKS See hand-carved woodblock and linocut prints on display, featuring illustrations of the Central Coast with bold colors and beautiful compositions. Gallery is open daily. Through Dec. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
HOT STUFF continued page 13
Hot Stuff
DECEMBER 18 - DECEMBER 28, 2025 PHOTO COURTESY OF CERTAIN SPARKS MUSIC
HOT STUFF from page 12
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE WATCH PARTY Join us for a kids’ watch party of It’s a Wonderful Life! Enjoy the cozy big-screen movie and free popcorn. Dec. 23, 5-7:30 p.m. $10. (805) 270-3278. oakfolkstudio. com. Oak Folk Studio, 4850 South Bradley Road, Suite B, Santa Maria. FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing (805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe. OAK FOLK’S FIRST ANNUAL HOLIDAY CREATIVE MARKET Join for our Holiday Creative Market! Makers are welcome— candles, art, treats, jewelry, more. There are limited tables. Expect cozy vibes and festive fun. Dec. 21, 12-3 p.m. $22. (805) 270-3278. oakfolkstudio.com. Oak Folk Studio, 4850 South Bradley Road, Suite B, Santa Maria. SANTA MARIA TOASTMASTERS Develop your public speaking skills at this club meeting. Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. (805) 570-0620. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria. SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y
SOLVANG JULEFEST Solvang Julefest is a month of lights, celebratory happenings, and holiday cheer. There will be a tree lighting ceremony, parade, Santa visits, outdoor Christmas markets, New Year’s
MUSIC FOR GOOD
A Holiday Recital will be held at Certain Sparks Music in Lompoc on Friday, Dec. 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 20, from 3 to 9:30 p.m. All ticket proceeds and silent auction funds benefit the CSM Foundation, which has been providing music lesson scholarships to kids in Lompoc since 2017. One ticket is $10 and an unlimited family pack is $40. Visit certainsparks.com for tickets and more details. —A.S.
Eve event, and more! Through Jan. 4, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. (805) 465-7298. solvangusa.com. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang. SOLVANG JULEFEST LIGHT, MUSIC & SNOW SHOWS Every night during Solvang Julefest, Solvang Park will sparkle with a 10-minute light and music display on the hour, ending with a “snow” flurry! Through Jan. 4, 2026, 5-9:15 p.m. (805) 465-7298. solvangusa.com/thingsto-do/solvang-julefest. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y
BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:156:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes.
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. SAN LUIS OBISPO
(510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER AT MARISOL Holiday cheer served one course at a time! Make spirits bright with a threecourse Christmas Eve menu made for celebrating. Reservations are required. Call 805-556-3316. Dec. 24, 1-8 p.m. $90. (805) 773-5000. cliffshotelandspa.com/ event/christmas-eve-dinner-at-marisol/. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach. 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 YOUTHWELL PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS - FAMILY TOOLS+ For parents and caregivers of youth, ages 5 to 18, with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, Tourette’s, and uniquely-wired brains. Thursdays, 12-1:30 p.m. through Dec. 18 Free. (805) 770-1930. Online. SBCC Wake Center, Santa Barbara. INGREDIENT PROFILE FORUM Learn the history, etymology, import value, export value, production, crop value, processing, and pricing of one ingredient each month. RSVP is required. Dec. 20, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 878-7982. instagram.com/my passionismyfood?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2 YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.
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.
30-DAY BREATH AND RESET JOURNEY FOR WOMEN Wired at night, drained all day? Reset your body in 30 days. Focus on breath practices to calm stress, sleep deeply, and restore lasting energy. Registration is required. Tuesdays, 6:307:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody.com. Live Webinar, online, SLO County. BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346. CHRISTMAS DINNER AT THE GARDENS OF AVILA Celebrate the season at Sycamore Springs Mineral Resort and Spa. Dec. 25, 3-9 p.m. $80. (805) 595 7302. sycamoresprings.com. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa, 1215 Avila Beach Drive, San Luis Obispo.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 16
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www.santamariasun.com • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • Sun • 13
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A Christmas Concert presented by Village Creative will take place at the Clark Center for the Performing Arts in Arroyo Grande on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 3 to 4 p.m. and 5 to 6 p.m. Music students ranging from beginner to advanced will showcase what they have learned throughout the year. Hear a mix of classic Christmas carols, holiday hits, and original compositions. General admission is $15 and can be purchased at clarkcenter.org. —A.S.
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16 • Sun • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 13 A CHRISTMAS STORY Packed with holiday mischief, childhood dreams, and nostalgic charm, A Christmas Story captures the magic of the season with wit, warmth, and plenty of laughs. Saturdays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m., Sundays, 2-4 p.m., Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., Fridays, 7-9 p.m. and Dec. 21, 7-9 p.m. through Dec. 19 $28-$47. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/ shows/a-christmas-story-2025/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo. 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, San Luis Obispo. FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and importance to the development of this area. Tours are led by docents and meet in front of the church Sundays, 2:30 p.m. and Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15 p.m. Free. (805) 550-7713. missionslodocents.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A safe place to share feelings of depression with those who suffer and those who have recovered to a full, healthy outlook on life. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. HOLIDAYS AT THE JACK HOUSE Step into the Holidays! Take a free guided tour of the Jack House & Gardens to see this Victorian gem, in all its holiday splendor. Dec. 21, 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 781-7305. slocity.org/JackHouse. The Jack House, 536 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo. MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346. NATURE LIGHTS SLO Botanical Garden’s holiday tradition, Nature Lights, features magical displays, live music, local
chefs, and an artists’ market. Fridays, and leadership skills in a supportive and Saturdays, 5-8 p.m., Dec. 21, 5-8 p.m., positive environment? During COVID, we Dec. 22, 5-8 p.m. and Dec. 23, 5-8 p.m. are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a through Dec. 27 $18-$28. (805) 541-1400. meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. slobg.org/naturelights/. San Luis Obispo Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Botanical Gardens, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd, Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID. San Luis Obispo. SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group PLUG-IN TO LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION Get inspired by local action, connect with or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs others, and discover more ways to get which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, involved with the SLO Climate Coalition. and independence of retirement. Attend virtually or in-person. Sustainable Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee snacks and childcare will be provided. meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo. sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. Ludwick Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong San Luis Obispo. boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA improves balance and flexibility, and, best ZOOM) This is a social support group forMUSICof all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between for this outdoor class which is held in the ages of 11-18. Each week the group a beautiful setting. Call or email before explores personal, cultural, and social FLAVOR/EATS attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. San Luis Obispo. INFO SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all CALENDAR walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Send event information to calendar@ OPINION Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for santamariasun.com. password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. NEWSNo fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See SLO COMMUNITY HOLIDAY FEAST website, San Luis Obispo. Enjoy a delicious holiday dinner with TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT live musical entertainment! Winter STROKES GROUP Learn more about mental health clothing care packages are available and coping skills to help you through your to the unhoused community. To journey towards wellness and recovery. donate or volunteer, visit the website ARTS Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 540provided. Dec. 25, 2:45-5:45 p.m. Free. 6576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness slocommunitycares.org. SLO Community Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. Holiday Feast!, 801 Grand Ave, TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN San Luis Obispo, (805) 458-9567. CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA 1906, has a rich history that The Land ZOOM) A good core group of friends Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County who gather to discuss topics we love/ looks forward to sharing with visitors. care about from movies, outings, music, Please RSVP. Fourth Sunday of every or being new to the area. We come from month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are all walks of life and most importantly free; donations are appreciated. support each other. Transgender and Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. octagonbarn.org. sloqueer.groups.io/g/lezbfriends. Online, TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space See website, San Luis Obispo. providing peer-to-peer support for trans, SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 18 MEETINGS Want to improve speaking
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Hot Stuff CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 16 gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252. TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated emotional support group to be heard, share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like your own. Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252. WINTER GYMNASTICS CAMP Flip into a fabulous future with friends ages 4 to 13. There are half-days, full-days, and extended care, customizable for your perfect schedule. Dec. 22, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and Dec. 23, 9:30 a.m.2:30 p.m. $45-$396. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/camps. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. WINTER SOLSTICE: DRUMMING & POTLUCK / PREFUMO CANYON Enjoy a community potluck, and drumming circle to celebrate life, rhythm, renewal, and relationship. Winter Solstice rituals and activities may include intention setting, a release and renewal ceremony to let go of the old and welcome the light, and more! Dec. 20, 12-4 p.m. $28.62. my805tix.com. Eagles Landing Ranch, 4615 Prefumo Canyon Road, San Luis Obispo. NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y
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18 • Sun • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com
CAMBRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET Celebrate the 14th Annual Cambria Christmas Market, which opens on Nov. 28, and goes until Dec. 31. The market is closed on Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 24, and 25. More information is available at the link. Through Dec. 31, 5-9 p.m. $27-$45. (800) 966-6490. cambriachristmasmarket.com/. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria. 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 CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom). For information, call 805900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654. CREATIVE QUILLS POETRY COLLECTIVE Creatives Quills fosters a supportive and inclusive platform for local poets to share their creative works. Sign up in the patio garden or email creativequillsmb@gmail.com. Third Sunday of every month, 2-4 p.m. through Dec. 21 Free. Top Dog Cafe Bar, 857 Main Street, Morro Bay, (805) 725-1024. GRIEF, GRATITUDE, GRACIOUSNESS – A HOLIDAY SOUND JOURNEY FOR THE HEART / LOS OSOS In this integrative Sound “Bath” Journey, you will explore the transformative power of gratitude — not as a denial of grief, but as a gentle bridge toward healing and hope. Gratitude and grief can coexist; both are expressions of love and reminders of what truly matters. Dec. 21, 2-3 p.m. $17.91-$28.62. my805tix.com. Central Coast Body Therapy Center, 2005 9th St., Los Osos, (805) 709-2227. MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS DISCUSSION GROUP A group of metaphysically minded individuals that have been meeting for many
DECEMBER 18 - DECEMBER 28, 2025 years now in the Coalesce Chapel. TAP THURSDAY Head to Tap Thursdays at the Wine Stone Inn every week, featuring Club offers a supportive metaphysical $5 draft beers and $5 Cava’s. Thursdays, based community. Members discuss 3-9 p.m. through April 16 Free. (805) 332a different topic each week. All are 3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., welcome to join. Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/. Suggested donation of $10-$15. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER coalescebookstore.com/. Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP Have a stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. topic, book, or article you wish to discuss Clark Ave., Orcutt. with interested and interesting people? Join this weekly meeting to discuss it, WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check or simply contribute your experiences Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the and knowledge. Contact Mark Plater for complete list of classes, for various ages. instructions on entering the Chapel area. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/ Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon (805) 528-7111. orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Coalesce Garden Chapel, 845 Main St., Road, suite 105, Orcutt. Morro Bay. WINE BINGO WEDNESDAYS Join Wine WHIMSICAL WINTER WONDERLAND Bingo Wednesday at the Wine Stone Step into the Whimsical Winter Inn –– the original bingo night in Old Wonderland at Cambria Nursery—where Orcutt. The event will occur weekly the magic of the season comes to life with the purchase of an adult beverage. through light, design, and imagination. Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. through April 29 Through Jan. 15, 2026 (805) 927-4747. (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. cambrianursery.com/events/. Cambria Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/. Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria. LOMPOC/VANDENBERG WINTER SOLSTICE RITUALS FOR HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO RENEWAL The Winter Solstice is one TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head of the four great seasonal turnings. It’s Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing a time of endings and beginnings, a Company every Tuesday night. Teams time to harvest the experience of the can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and old year and to create momentum for MUSICbragging rights. Kekas will be serving the new. Meditate together around the their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. sacred fire and perform a ceremony of Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 819-0723. FLAVOR/EATS recapitulation and intention forming. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Dec. 21, 5-6:30 p.m. $48.98. my805tix.com. Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., 9th Limb Yoga, 845 Napa Ave., Morro Bay, Lompoc. INFO (415) 852-1787. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y
CHRISTMAS DINNER AT SEAVENTURE CALENDAR RESTAURANT Indulge in our special three-course Holiday Prix Fixe Menu. No cooking or cleanup is required, only Send event information to calendar@ OPINION reservations. Large groups are welcome! santamariasun.com. Dec. 25, 1-7 p.m. (805) 773-3463. seaventure.com/event/christmas-dinner/. NEWSSeaVenture Restaurant, 100 Oceanview Ave., Pismo Beach. CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER AT STROKES SEAVENTURE RESTAURANT Enjoy a beautiful dinner with ocean views while you wait for Santa to arrive! Reservations ARTS are highly recommended. Large groups SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS are welcome. Dec. 24, 4-9 p.m. (805) 773BAR TAKEOVER THURSDAYS Join us 3463. seaventure.com/event/christmasThursdays to meet and chat with the dinner/. SeaVenture Restaurant, 100 winemaker of the flight we’re featuring that week. Thursdays, 4-7:30 p.m. $15-$30. Oceanview Ave., Pismo Beach.
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FOOD & DRINK
(805) 623-5129. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, stellerscellar.com. FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY Head to Food Truck Friday, with wine bottle specials and local food trucks every Friday at the Wine Stone Inn. Fridays, 4-9 p.m. through April 24 Free. (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/. FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays (805) 922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria. FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE INN Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/. FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866. PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110. SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon. com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria. TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, 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. 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.
MUSIC
SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS
HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110. HARMONY FOR THE HOLIDAYS Join for a free a cappella holiday music performance for all ages. Dec. 20, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. (805)736-7572. ccharmony.org. Vida Church, 700 N Curryer Street, Santa Maria.
MUSIC continued page 21
The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Special Education - Child Find The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) seeks to identify, locate, and evaluate high school age students suspected of having a disability who may be eligible for special education services designed to meet their educational needs at no cost to families. This includes students that are highly mobile, migrant, experiencing homelessness, students that are wards of the state, and students attending private schools located within SMJUHSD boundaries. If you suspect your child has a disability, contact the school special education department or district office Special Education Department. Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)
El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria Educación Especial - Búsqueda de Estudiantes El Distrito Unificado de Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria (SMJUHSD) busca identificar, localizar y evaluar a los estudiantes en edad de escuela preparatoria sospechosos de tener una discapacidad que puede ser elegible para servicios de educación especial diseñados para satisfacer sus necesidades educativas sin costo alguno para las familias. Esto incluye a los estudiantes que son altamente móviles, migrantes, sin hogar, estudiantes que están bajo la tutela del estado, y los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas privadas ubicadas dentro los limites de SMJUHSD. Si sospecha que su hijo tiene una discapacidad, comuníquese con el departamento de educación especial de la escuela u oficina de Educación Especial del distrito SMJUHSD. Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)
(805) 489-2499
From the footlights to the lobby, from the villain’s sneer to the hero’s cheer—every moment at The Great American Melodrama is brighter because of you! This holiday season, we tip our top hats and raise a glass to our wonderful community. May your days be merry, your hearts and your filled with From the footlights to light, the lobby, fromstories the villain’s sneerjoy! to the hero’s
cheer—every moment at The Great American Melodrama is brighter because of you! This holiday season, we tip our top hats and raise a glass to our wonderful community. May your days be merry,
1863 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY OCEANO, CA Nov. 14 ~ Dec. 31 (805) 489-2499
1863 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY OCEANO, CA www.AmericanMelodrama.com Nov. 14 ~ Dec. 31
www.santamariasun.com • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • Sun • 19
Nature Lights 2025
NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 27
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21
SLO Botanical Garden
The Anderson, Paso Robles
Improv Extravaganza
An Atown Country Christmas
Molly Ringwald Project New Year’s Eve Party
New Year’s Eve at the Maverick Saloon
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31
Libertine Brewing Co, SLO
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
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Maverick Saloon, Santa Ynez
35th Annual Victorian Teddy Bear Tea
An Old Town Country Christmas
NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 31 Great Golf Courses all over California
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18 The Bunker SLO
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19 7935 San Luis Ave, Atascadero
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19 Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, SLO
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 Park Ballroom, Paso Robles
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 Orcutt
Winter Solstice: Drumming & Potluck
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 4615 Prefumo Canyon Rd, SLO
Saturday Night Improv
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 The Bunker SLO
Winter Solstice Rituals for Renewal SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21 9th Limb Yoga, Morro Bay
Guadalupe 10 Comic Showcase
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26 Guadalupe Social Club
Saul Trujillo @ Giafunni’s
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27 Giavanni’s Pizza, Santa Maria
NYE 2026 Funk Bizarre w/Pimps of Joytime
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31 SLO Brew Rock, SLO
Orcutt New Year’s Eve Block Party
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31 Orcutt
Brass Mash First Friday in January
FRIDAY, JANUARY 2 Liquid Gravity Brewing Co, SLO
Advanced Healthcare Directive Workshop
What’s the Big Deal About Bird Watching?
Kids Creatives Club Weekly Art-n-Craft Classes WEDNESDAYS, JAN. 7 - 28 Lor Coaching Studio, Morro Bay
Crystal Clarity Sound “Bath” Journey
THURSDAY, JANUARY 9 Mystic Nature, Nipomo
Always Patsy Cline
Resilience Sound Journey Cancer Support
The Last Class with Robert Reich
Just Ducky Sound Bath
Insider’s Look at City Government
Proxima Parada in Downtown SLO
SUNDAY, JANUARY 4 Los Osos or Morro Bay
SUNDAY, JANUARY 5 Odd Fellows Hall, SLO
FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 Santa Maria Civc Center
FRIDAY, JANUARY 10 Adventist Health-Sierra Vista, SLO
MONDAY, JANUARY 12 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay
MONDAY, JANUARY 13 CC Body Therapy Center, Los Osos
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 Odd Fellows Hall, SLO
FRIDAY, JANUARY 16 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO
VHS Fest 2.0
LSD & the Search for God
Wealth, Women & Woo
Bob & Wendy
The Who’s Rock Opera, ‘Tommy’ Fundraiser
New Beginnings
SATURDAY, JANUARY 17 Humdinger Brewing, SLO
SATURDAY, JANUARY 17 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO
20 • Sun • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com
SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 Crows End Retreat, SLO
SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 The Bunker SLO
MONDAY, JANUARY 19 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20 ACi Jet, SLO
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Human Trafficking 101
CELTIC CELEBRATION
The 19th annual Winterdance Celtic Christmas Celebration will be held on Sunday, Dec. 21, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Octagon Barn Center in San Luis Obispo. Enjoy angelic singing and instrumentals, along with some Irish stepdancing. Tickets range from $15 to $40. Get more information at mollysrevenge.com. —A.S.
MUSIC from page 18 LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866. LIVE JAZZ SATURDAYS Enjoy some live Jazz, featuring The Cardinal Jazz Duo playing the jazz music they enjoy, as well as some holiday favorites. Dec. 20, 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0860. instagram. com/Crumblescafeandbakeshop. Crumbles Cafe & Bake Shop, 1635 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 6235129, stellerscellar.com. MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866. MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. ongoing (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria. OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. (805) 478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria. SUNDAY NIGHT FUN End the weekend with some good vibes. Music by DJ Van Gloryious. Sundays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866. SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y
CHRISTMAS MATTERS HOLIDAY CAROLERS Head to downtown Solvang on Saturdays leading up to Christmas for the performances of the Christmas Matters Holiday Carolers. These talented singers fill the air with joyful holiday tunes as they roam the quaint Danish downtown village of Solvang. Dec. 20, 5-8 p.m. solvangusa.com/solvangevents-calendar/. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang. LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W.
Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com. WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com. LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
CSM WINTER RECITALS Recitals will be broken into one-hour blocks. Ask what block you are playing in and arrive 15 minutes before your block begins. All ticket proceeds and silent auction funds benefit the CSM Foundation, which has been providing music lesson scholarships to kids in Lompoc since 2017. Dec. 19, 7-9 p.m. and Dec. 20, 3-9:30 p.m. $10-$40. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc. KARAOKE AT COLD COAST BREWING CO. Pick out a song, bring your friends, and get ready to perform. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 8190723, coldcoastbrewing.com. YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y
CENTRAL COAST HARMONY CHORUS INVITES SINGERS TO JOIN FOR HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES Men and women are invited! No prior experience is necessary - just a love of music. Call or email for more information. Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. through Dec. 18 $20. (805) 736-7572. ccharmony.org. Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St., Nipomo. KARAOKE AT SLO COUNTY’S ONLY FILIPINO CAFE Join for all day, all ages karaoke hosted at SLO County’s only brick and mortar Filipino cafe, Lumpia Bros Cafe. Enjoy karaoke, filipino dishes, acai, and coffee. Tuesdays-Saturdays-6 p.m. through Dec. 31 Free. (805) 202-8473. Lumpia Bros Cafe, 1187 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach. 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. SAN LUIS OBISPO
19TH ANNUAL WINTERDANCE CELTIC CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION Enjoy angelic singing, instrumental wizardry, and championship Irish step-dancing which will combine to lift your hearts this holiday season. Dec. 21, 4-6 p.m. $15-$40. (831) 818-5021. mollysrevenge.com/shows. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo. BURLEY THISTLES Burley Thistles is an alternative rock band known for their guitar-driven sound and memorable songs. Hear them perform in the heart of downtown SLO. Dec. 20, 9:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Frog and Peach Pub, 728 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 595-4764, frogandpeachpub.com. SAN LUIS OBISPO MASTER CHORALE PRESENTS “HOLIDAY FESTIVAL” Featuring sing-along Messiah, Forbes Pipe Organ, Westwood Brass. Dec. 20, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $12-$30. (805) 538-3311. slomasterchorale.org/. Cal Poly Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo.
Babes Against the Machine
Mawtini-Arab American Narratives
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21 Odd Fellows Hall, SLO
FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO
SATURDAY, JANUARY 24 Cal Poly Library, SLO
The Freddie Ravel Trio
SUNDAY, JANUARY 25 Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, SLO
One Day Improv Festival
SATURDAY, JANUARY 31 San Luis Obispo Grange Hall
Scoundrel, Captive State, Perception
Somatic Magic Retreat
Joyful Rhythms Drum Circle
Mininova-Love Will Conquer All
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Humdinger Brewing, SLO
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 6430 Squire Ct, SLO
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Gala Pride & Diversity Center, SLO
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13 Gathering House at UCC, SLO
Savage Master
Roy Orbison Returns
SLO Craft Beer Fest
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Humdinger Brewing, SLO
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Templeton Performing Arts Center
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Alex Madonna Expo Center, SLO
Santa Barbara Winter Wedding Expo
Renaissance, Baroque & Beyond: Sacred & Profane SUNDAY, MARCH 1 United Methodist Church, SLO
From the Barrel
FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Paso Robles
Central Coast Jazz Guitar Fest!
Learn to Sail
13th Annual Ventura County Farm Day
NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y
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. KELLYTOWN, CHRISTMAS IN KILLARNEY Enjoy traditional pub songs with lively tunes from fiddle and accordion—Christmas numbers too! Delicious food and drink will be available at the bar. Dec. 20, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 772-8388. The Savory Palette (formerly Morro Bay Wine Seller), 601 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, savorypalette.com. REEL TOO REAL ROCKS THE SIREN Reel Too Real brings their energetic presentation of ‘80s and ‘90s Alt-Rock to a Saturday matinee. This is an excellent way to celebrate the holidays! Dec. 20, 2-5 p.m. Free. (805) 225-1312. thesirenmorrobay.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay. m
SUNDAY, MARCH 1 Santa Barbara Women’s Club
FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Santa Ynez Valley Marriott, Buellton
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SATURDAY, APRIL 11 Multiple Locations, California
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www.santamariasun.com • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • Sun • 21
Arts ARTS BRIEFS Flying Goat Cellars presents exhibit by contemporary artist PHOTO COURTESY OF REENA HOWMILLER
Reena Howmiller’s art show, titled What Lies Beneath, is up at Flying Goat Cellars in Lompoc through January. She created colorful, abstract paintings and scarves made with Indian silk that are inspired by her other artwork. The scarves are “colorful, wearable art to swaddle one’s decolletage in an affordable luxury item,” Howmiller said in an email to the Sun, and they’re also “anti fast fashion.” As an artist, Howmiller is drawn to unpredictable palettes and contrasting colors. She believes that in the right circumstances, opposites can coexist and thrive. “I am interested in making the unbelievable and improbable work with one another—in my case, towards a harmonious piece of artwork,” Howmiller said in press materials. Since the tasting room opened in 2008, it’s featured pieces by local artists, according to Kate Griffith of Flying Goat Cellars. There are usually four or five exhibits each year displaying artwork including photography, sculptures, paintings, or textiles that add some flair to the tasting room walls, Griffith added. A sculpture show by James Wolfe is set up outside, too. Flying Goat Cellars is located at 1520 E. Chestnut Court in Lompoc and open Thursday to Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Follow Howmiller’s work on Instagram @iconoclastofcolor.
Enjoy holiday movies at the Santa Maria Public Library this month COURTESY PHOTO BY STACY BRIGMAN
Friends and families can see three movies during winter break in the Santa Maria Public Library’s Altrusa Theater. The showings will each last an hour and a half. To kick things off, the library will show Elf on Dec. 23 at 3:30 p.m. alongside interactive activities designed to help the audience engage with select scenes, youth services librarian Stacy Brigman said in an email to the Sun. The Grinch will play on Dec. 24 at noon, and viewers can enjoy popcorn while watching. The library’s last movie of the year will be Frozen, presented on Dec. 30 at noon. Staff encourages families to dress up as their favorite characters and sing along during the film. This month the library is also hosting reading challenges for adults and kids, a 3D printing workshop on Dec. 27, technology assistance on Dec. 28, and a New Year’s party on Dec. 31. For the library’s full calendar of events, visit cityofsantamaria.org. The public library is located at 421 S. McClelland St. in Santa Maria. It’s open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Call (805) 925-0994 for more information. m Staff Writer Madison White compiles Arts Briefs. Send information to mwhite@santamariasun.com.
OPINION
STAGE
NEWS
PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHRISTINE FOSSEMALLE
STROKES
Up until recently, she was teaching all the ballet ARTS Showtime! classes herself. A few Send gallery, stage, months ago, Fossemalle and cultural festivities to hired another teacher mwhite@santamariasun.com. to help minimize her load. The studio owner still choreographs the company’s routines, picks out the costumes, and chooses the music. Looking back, Fossemalle can’t believe it’s been 40 years because she’s always kept busy, looking forward to the next thing. At this point, she’s happy to have organized a parent committee to take care of some of the performance details like tickets, photo sessions, and front-ofhouse ushering. The committee will begin next TIMELESS: Every year, between 20 and 40 dancers join the Santa Ynez Valley Performing Arts Company, affiliated with year, allowing Fossemalle the Fossemalle Dance Studio. The company requires dancers to dedicate extra hours of training for performances in the to focus more on the community. costumes, choreography, and music selections. “At the “I’m so fortunate,” Fossemalle said. “I’m so happy, beginning ballet and I have a lot of people who really appreciate is a little hard, but what I’m doing, so it’s very rewarding.” m when you pass the foundation, Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@ it gets more and santamariasun.com. more exciting,” Fossemalle said. BY MADISON WHITE “Of course, any little girls or boys like to tap because you get instant noise. It’s kind of fun right away.” very day when Christine Fossemalle arrives Some students return from college or other and parks across the street from her dance dance training to teach at the studio themselves. studio, she sees her name on the sign. It never gets old, even though the studio is about to turn 40 One instructor started as a student at the Fossemalle Dance Studio when she was 4 years next summer. old. Now she’s been leading classes there for three “When I look at my sign, Fossemalle Dance decades. Another returner teaches jazz and tap, Studio, I smile every time,” the owner told the and a third focuses on hip-hop. Sun. “How fortunate I am to be doing what I’m “It’s really full-circle,” Fossemalle said. “It’s a doing.” very heartwarming feeling.” Originally from France, Fossemalle began Some dancers start at 4 years old and continue ballet when she was 7 years old and never until they graduate from high school. Watching stopped dancing. At the time, it was the only class available to her because ballet is largely seen as the that progression is the most rewarding part for Fossemalle. foundation to all other styles of dance. That’s why Most of the students she teaches won’t go on to ballet is mandatory at Fossemalle Dance Studio, dance professionally, though, which is alright with even though it can be tedious. her. What’s more important is the discipline and Eventually she got her diploma from an art posture. Fossemalle tells her students, who she school in Paris, but at 18, she injured her Achilles views as her own kids, to find something they’re tendon. It forced her to put a pause on ballet and passionate about in their professional future. pick up jazz, which wasn’t too popular in France Shortly after opening the studio, Fossemalle at the time. Having made connections with dance started the Santa Ynez Valley Performing Arts companies in New York and Chicago, the young Company in 1987. Dancers have the option to join, dancer moved to the U.S. when she was 22. and many of them do, but it’s a significant time “I was fortunate enough to have really good, commitment as opposed to just attending classes. inspiring, enthusiastic teachers from the very IN THE OFFICE: Christine Fossemalle moved The company performs at events in the community. beginning,” she said. “That’s, I think, crucial to from France to the U.S. in her 20s and started “Class is fun, and it’s enjoyable, but the outcome, instill in you the passion for dance.” her own dance studio and company in Santa the reward, is the performance and the audience’s Now, she feels her responsibility is to teach the Ynez nearly 40 years ago. reaction and the applause,” Fossemalle said. next generation. Fossemalle passes along insight from her instructors and what she learned from her own experiences. “In ballet, or dance in general, you transmit your knowledge from one generation into the other,” Fossemalle said. The studio is intergenerational, with students ranging from 4 to 80 years old. A small team of dedicated teachers helps Fossemalle, too. She said she couldn’t do it without them. Usually, the classes are capped at 12 so students can receive careful instruction. They can learn jazz, tap, hip-hop, and ballet.
Tapping along Christine Fossemalle’s passion of four decades is still going strong
E
Ballet, jazz, and tap
Fossemalle Dance Studio is located at 3595 Numancia St. in Santa Ynez. Call the studio at (805) 688-8494 for the current class schedule. Visit fossemalledancestudio.com or @fossemalledancestudio on Instagram for details about the studio and the Santa Ynez Valley Performing Arts Company.
22 • Sun • December 18 - December 25, 2025 • www.santamariasun.com
BACK TO BASICS: Classes at the Fossemalle Dance Studio are capped at 12 students, teaching jazz, tap, and hip-hop, with foundational skills from mandatory ballet training.
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Film
SUN SCREEN
Cult of personality W a fortune on the church grounds. Mysteries galore! Anna: These Knives Out films are so easily digestible, effortlessly fun in their play on mystery—it’s like playing a game of Clue … or watching Clue, I guess. Craig’s Blanc has no interest in the church itself, only the murder that happened inside. Father Jud came to Our Lady of Perpetual Fortitude due to bad behavior, and try as he might, he can’t seem to make a personal connection with any of the church’s Glen: Score another win for Rian Johnson. All flock. Instead, what he finds is a small group three of his old-fashioned whodunit detective of parishioners whose dogged dedication to mysteries have been fun, thorny stories perfect Wicks seems cult-like. In fact, when he tries to for playing armchair detective along with Blanc, host a Bible study, which Wicks is not aware of, a cocksure investigator who the congregation cries scandal. believes every case is solvable, However, the parishioners may even a so-called closed-door WAKE UP DEAD MAN: have more to hide than we first murder. In this case, after a see, and soon the tale becomes A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY fiery sermon, Wicks steps into a much seedier and darker than What’s it rated? PG-13 vestibule to collect himself before what’s on the surface. Cue the What’s it worth, Anna? Full price continuing, and while Father dead bodies! What’s it worth, Glen? Full price Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor) Glen: Once again, art is Where’s it showing? Netflix continues the service, there’s imitating life. Wicks uses his a thud and a clang, and when parishioners’ weaknesses, Father Jud goes to check, he finds Wicks stabbed fears, and prejudices to draw them to his cult in the back in a closed room with no windows. of personality. One of his tricks is to humiliate As fun as the mystery is, the real meat on this a newcomer to the congregation through his bone is the diehard parishioners and their sermon, resulting in the newcomer storming various backstories. Glenn Close is a standout out, which gives his diehard followers a perverse as Martha Delacroix, a longtime church glee and makes them feel like the “in” crowd volunteer and stalwart supporter of Wicks and against the “other.” Wicks is truly awful— his mysterious and dead father, Rev. Prentice hateful, disingenuous, manipulative. We despise Wicks (James Faulkner), who may have hidden him and the fools who blindly follow him. Of
PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX
riter-director Rian Johnson (Brick, The Brothers Bloom, Looper, Star Wars: Episode VIII—The Last Jedi) returns with the third installment of his Knives Out franchise about private detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig). This time around, the droll Southern investigator is brought in to solve the murder of Catholic Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin), stabbed in the back in his church, Our Lady of Perpetual Fortitude. (144 min.)
THE DROLL DRAWL RETURNS: Private detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) returns to solve another murder, in Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, streaming on Netflix.
course, all fingers point to Father Jud as the killer, and the story is clever enough to keep us wondering, did he do it? How? The why is obvious—he believes Wicks is destroying his church and leading his followers away from Christ’s teachings. Sound familiar? Anna: All too familiar, unfortunately. One thing I love about the Knives Out films is Johnson’s knack for creating moody sets and scenery—rich in detail and texture. The church and the grounds where the story’s centered
are no different. It feels removed from the world. Much like the way Stephen King can create a universe for horror, Johnson seems to be adept at setting the scene of a mystery. It’s a popcorn flick for sure, and a good one. Even with a 144-minute runtime, it slips by with every revealed juicy secret. m New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX
SEAN COMBS: THE RECKONING
What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2025 Where’s it showing? Netflix Delving into Sean Combs’ past is not what the world needs right now; any attention is ill-deserved. Despite that, it’s nothing less than fascinating to see how the once big-time music mogul snaked his way up the proverbial ladder and became someone who believed himself untouchable. This docuseries does nothing to proclaim the sexual abuser as anything but—every interview, every witness speaks on the ego and violence that Combs exudes. The series uses intimate footage of Combs in the days preceding his arrest to set the frame for the end of the story, his long court battle and sentencing. What’s amazing is he tried to legally block the story, saying the footage was used without permission, but in fact he refused to pay the videographer he hired, who sold the footage to 50 Cent. Through interviews with colleagues, peers, and employees, the series paints the image of a man who thinks himself closer to a god than a mortal, a checkers player trying to play 4D chess, and frankly, a cheapskate rapist with no real friends. Get ready to get angry. Let’s all just hope the stain on his name continues after his prison release. (four approximately one-hour episodes) —Anna
PHOTO COURTESY OF OH BOY PICTURES
YOU GOT GOLD: A CELEBTRATION OF JOHN PRINE
EXPLOITER: P Diddy’s legal, personal, and professional problems are laid bare in the TV documentary miniseries Sean Combs: The Reckoning, streaming on Netflix.
What’s it rated? Not rated When? 2025 Where’s it showing? The Palm Theatre in SLO on Dec. 20 (4 p.m.) and Dec. 21 (1 p.m.) Michael John Warren (Shrek the Musical) directed this concert documentary shot over two nights in Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium in October 2022, two years after Prine’s death at 73. A mix of up-and-coming and top-tier performers cover Prine’s iconic material—or in some cases, such as Lucinda Williams and Kasey Musgrave, perform original songs inspired by their relationship with Prine. The documentary paints a portrait of an incredibly talented artist and absolute character, and the film is interspersed with archival footage of Prine himself as well as contemporary interviews by those he in some way touched. It’s stirring to hear people like Tyler Childers, Brandi Carlile, The War and Treaty, and Jason Isbell sing Prine’s songs and speak with such reverence for the man. Valerie June and Nathaniel Rateliff sang one of my favorites, “In Spite of Ourselves,” and Kurt Vile’s version of “How Lucky” was amazing, as was I’m With Her’s version of “Unwed Fathers.”
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The doc is filled with emotional moments like Bonnie Raitt talking about “Angel from Montgomery,” which she sang with Brandi Carlile to absolutely devastating effect. If you’re a Prine fan, it’s essential viewing. If you’re not, you will be after watching this documentary. He’s undeniably one of the greats. (90 min.) m —Glen
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Eats Primal
FOOD PHOTOS COURTESY OF KERI JOY WAXER
The couple behind a new wellness company encourages humans to return to their wild states
BY MADISON WHITE
E
rik Steinkamp and Keri Joy Waxer eat dandelions. Steinkamp, the chef in their relationship, prepares the flowers like he does most vegetables that he buys from the store or farmers market. First, he cuts the bottoms off, sticks them in cold water, and lets them rejuvenate outside in the sun. The process, he said, releases vegetables from their dormant states because before he got them, they’d likely been separated from their roots and refrigerated in the dark, almost hibernating. “If you’re eating a living, vibrant, metabolizing thing, then you’re also going to be getting a lot more of the benefits and nutrition that that has,” Steinkamp said. When it comes time to incorporate dandelions into his meals, the chef usually chops up the leaves and throws them into a pasta or chili dish during the last minutes of cooking. They almost disappear into the recipe, he described, while adding “a ton of nutrition and vitality.” He said dandelions are beneficial for detoxing, balance, and cleansing. Though they are a superfood, many people view dandelions as pesky growths in their grass. But in Steinkamp’s mind, dandelions pop up because nature isn’t supposed to have monocrops. “The fact that it’s treated like a weed, it shows how far humanity has gone from what really is important,” Steinkamp said. Returning to nature and the traditional way of life is the idea that
Feeling a tad feral?
For more details about Feral Future, visit feralfuture.com or @yourferalfuture on Instagram. Discover Feral Foods on shelves in San Luis Obispo, Los Olivos, Solvang, Buellton, and other communities by using the website’s store locator.
ELEVATED SIMPLICITY: Feral Future’s line of pantry essentials includes salts, teas, spice blends, and more sold online and in stores up and down the Central Coast. The brand promotes simple nourishment from ancestral ways of eating and living.
TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK: Keri Joy Waxer and Erik Steinkamp officially launched their company, Feral Future, in May this year. Waxer has a background in the wellness industry, and Steinkamp is a chef and craftsman.
inspired Feral Future, the wellness company he started with Waxer, his fiancée. The concept has stuck with Steinkamp for a decade, but Feral Future just launched in May this year. The Solvang couple’s goal is to promote ancestral living, the concept of how humans lived way back when. “The idea of becoming a feral human—essentially leaving the domesticated world and going back to our wild state of being close to the land—really connected with me,” Steinkamp said. “And then food was such a big part of it.” The couple is serious about the philosophy of ‘you are what you eat.’
If a certain ingredient didn’t exist 100 years ago, they’re probably not interested in consuming it. Waxer remembered hearing about Steinkamp’s thoughts on ancestral living during their early stages of dating. Individually, they were living similar lifestyles, but Feral Future brought them closer. “His idea was so grand and so beautiful and really just touched every cell in my body,” Waxer said. Feral Future was born out of their passion for natural living and elevated simplicity. Within it, the Feral Foods
EATS continued page 26
FOR LOCAL PICKUP: The first goods that Keri Joy Waxer and Erik Steinkamp sold were prepared foods in Mason jars like wild boar pasta, elk chili, turkey soup, and venison taco meat.
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Eats EATS from page 25
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PHOTO COURTESY OF KERI JOY WAXER
Waxer’s skills come into play on the business side label produces salts, dry of Feral Future. She enjoys rubs, herb blends, and storytelling and conveying teas (with dried dandelion the energy of the products leaves, too). The products to her audience. are available to buy online With almost 15 years of and in select stores on the experience in the health Central Coast. and beauty industry, she Their full-spectrum salt knows that authenticity includes mineral profiles is important. They both from Himalayan pink salt, practice what they preach. lake salt, and sea salt. They “We launched with food, added garlic and parsley for but it’s so much bigger than Feral Future’s garlic salt. food,” Waxer said. “It’s truly Perhaps the best-selling a lifestyle, mission-based product the pair has brand to really play a role in released is maple mallows. supporting humanity and The large, fluffy squares realizing just how powerful are naturally sweetened NATURALLY SWEET: Maple mallows are a top seller at Feral Future, but we truly all are.” with maple syrup. Waxer they’re not your typical marshmallows. They’ve already calls them Steinkamp’s love The health and beauty benefits come branched out from food letter to her. from grass-fed gelatin and maple syrup. products with a joint “I was on the hunt podcast on their website for the perfect grass-fed and an online course designed by Waxer that marshmallow for the health and beauty benefit,” guides women to return to their bodies’ rhythms she said. “Everything I was finding fell short. through the moon’s cycle. Everything still had chemicals or synthetics.” Ultimately the pair’s mission is to start Steinkamp’s recipe includes grass-fed beef a broader platform, like an Amazon, they gelatin to support hair, skin, nails, and digestion. The ingredients are clean, without any corn syrup explained, meant for like-minded creators to promote their services and products. The or refined sugar. Maple mallows are pretty much feral future is all about unleashing humanity’s a “cult seller,” Waxer added. programming, Waxer said, and having the most The couple manufactures their foods at a extraordinary experience on Earth. local church in a shared commercial kitchen for “It’s like our dharma. It’s much bigger than businesses on the rise. even Erik and I,” Waxer said. “We’re holding it, “Bringing back the artisanal, the handmade, is so important,” Waxer said. “We touch everything and we believe in it, and it’s what we move toward every single day.” m that we create. … We’re labeling it, we’re filling it, we’re packing it, shipping it, all of it, so we have Staff Writer Madison White is fascinated complete quality control of everything, which is by a feral future. Reach her at mwhite@ also very rare.” While Steinkamp is the main recipe developer, santamariasun.com.
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