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NOR T HERN S A N TA BA RBA R A COUN T Y ’ S NE WS A ND EN T ER TA INMEN T WEEK LY > DECEMBER 2 5, 202 5 - JA NUA RY 1, 2026 > VOL . 26 NO. 4 4 > W W W. S A N TA M A RIA SUN .COM

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AT THE MOVIES

The Housemaid is for streaming [20]

Almost there Guadalupe’s Royal Theater retrofit hits another snag after groundbreaking ceremony [6] BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

NEWS

The latest Sable update [3]

ARTS

Author, filmmaker Gary Robinson [18]

EATS

Gluten-free goods, delivered [21]

Contents

Your Dream Home Awaits!

DECEMBER 25, 2025 - JANUARY 1, 2026 VOL. 26 NO. 44

hile the Guadalupe Royal Theater project broke ground in early December, construction is on hold thanks to hazardous materials in the building—and it must get the go-ahead from the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District. While the city waits, it’s moving forward with finishing its fundraising campaign for the project and establishing an oversight committee that’s beholden to the public. Senior staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood writes about it this week [6]. Also, read about what’s happening with Sable [3]; a Native American author and filmmaker with two new books coming out [18]; and a gluten-free bakery in Orcutt that delivers [21]. Camillia Lanham editor

LOCAL ROYALTY: In early December, a formal groundbreaking ceremony took place to kick-start the Royal Theater project’s construction phase, as part of a $13 million project to restore and renovate the site.

Cover photo courtesy of Royal Pictures > Cover design by Alex Zuniga

NEWS

News Briefs ...............................................................................3 Political Watch.........................................................................3 Spotlight...................................................................................... 7

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Arts Briefs ................................................................................18

MOVIES

Reviews ....................................................................................20

OPINION

of Santa Maria

ARTS

Commentary .............................................................................8 Letters ..........................................................................................8 Web Poll ......................................................................................8 Mayfield.......................................................................................8 Canary ..........................................................................................9

CLASSIFIEDS, HOME, AND REAL ESTATE .................................................... 23

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Hot Stuff ....................................................................................10

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News POLITICAL WATCH • U.S. Sens. Adam Schiff (D-California) and John Curtis (R-Utah) co-introduced the Timeshare Pricing Transparency Act on Dec. 18. This bipartisan legislation aims to protect consumers from confusing contracts, hidden fees, and unclear exit options in the timeshare industry. “Americans deserve to have all of the information they need upfront, before entering any timeshare commitment, including any potential surprise fees or contract terms,” Schiff said in a statement. “I’m proud to partner with Sen. Curtis to enhance consumer protections and ensure that Americans aren’t saddled with hidden junk fees or are the victims of deceptive contracts.” The Timeshare Pricing Transparency Act would establish what Schiff’s office called “clear,” “commonsense” disclosure requirements to ensure consumers understand exactly what they are purchasing. Safeguards in the bill include a 14-day penalty-free cancellation period and a single document that itemizes all acquisition and maintenance costs. “Our bill is about honesty, transparency, and basic consumer rights,” Sen. Curtis said in a statement. “Families deserve to know exactly what financial decisions they are making without predatory sales tactics that rely upon deception and manipulative time constraints. This bill ensures that Americans have clear and honest information before committing to a timeshare.” In a release from Schiff’s office, AARP Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Bill Sweeney stated that timeshare fraud cost consumers more than $50 million in 2024, according to FBI statistics. • U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) recently included legislation—the Central Coast Heritage Protection Act—authored by U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) in the PUBLIC (Protecting Unique and Beautiful Landscapes by Investing in California) Lands Act. “I am grateful to Sen. Padilla for including my Central Coast Heritage Protection Act in his bill, ensuring these treasures are safeguarded so future generations can continue to experience the natural beauty that defines our region,” Carbajal said in a Dec. 18 statement. The Central Coast Heritage Protection Act would designate approximately 250,000 acres of public land in the Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument as wilderness, the highest form of federal protection available. A wilderness designation would protect the land from future oil or gas drilling. Padilla’s bill, the PUBLIC Lands Act, supports the conservation of more than 1.7 million acres of California’s public lands throughout Los Angeles County, northwest California, and the Central Coast. “From the rugged trails of the Los Padres National Forest to the sweeping Carrizo Plain, the Central Coast is home to some of the most pristine public lands in the country,” Carbajal stated. “We must act now to permanently protect these landscapes, which sustain local watersheds, provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, and strengthen both our public health and economy.” • Gov. Gavin Newsom launched a new website on Dec. 16 that compiles information about criminal records and corruption cases tied to various individuals President Donald Trump “protects, pardons, and surrounds himself with,” according to Newsom’s office. In a release to announce the website, Newsom included data from the Major Cities Chiefs Association that shows homicides, robberies, and aggravated assaults are down 18 to 9 percent in most major cities across the state. “California is proving what real public safety leadership looks like. Meanwhile in D.C., Trump is a felon who surrounds himself with scammers and drug traffickers,” Newsom stated. “We’re providing the public with a resource putting the facts in one place so Californians, and all Americans, can see who he elevates and who he protects.” m

➤ Falling into place [6]

December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026

➤ Spotlight [7]

FILE PHOTO COURTESY OF JULIE KING

Act now!

Send any news or story tips to news@santamariasun.com.

OIL FOIL: Sable Offshore’s plan to restart the Santa Ynez Unit—including the defunct pipeline that caused 2015’s Refugio oil spill—was a focal point at the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors’ Dec. 16 meeting. The board denied the permit transfers needed to clear the reboot during the hearing.

Federal agency assumes oversight of Las Flores pipeline Within 24 hours of the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors’ Dec. 16 vote to deny Sable Offshore the permit transfers it needs to revive the Las Flores pipeline, a separate governing body responded to the Texas-based oil producer’s appeal to a higher power. On Dec. 17, the U.S. Department of Transportation granted Sable’s request to transition future regulatory oversight of the pipeline from the California Office of the State Fire Marshal to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). Linda Daugherty, acting associate administrator for pipeline safety with PHMSA, told Sable that the administration notified the state fire marshal about the shift. “PHMSA agrees with your determination that the Las Flores pipeline is an interstate pipeline,” Daugherty wrote in a letter to Sable President and CEO J. Caldwell Flores. In April, a handful of local environmental agencies sued the state fire marshal for granting Sable a waiver that allowed the company to continue working toward resuming oil production without formal public noticing protocols in place. In conjunction with the lawsuit, a Santa Barbara County Superior Court judge approved an injunction in June that ordered Sable to halt all prep work tied to its anticipated restart of the Las Flores pipeline. According to Daugherty’s Dec. 17 letter, Sable reached out to PHMSA in late November, which prompted the federal agency to initiate a formal review of the Las Flores pipeline. The investigation included on-site inspections over a three-day period in December. State fire marshal representatives accompanied federal investigators during these site visits, according to Daugherty, who also outlined PHMSA’s broader inspection of the Santa Ynez Unit as a whole. “PHMSA also reviewed Sable’s written procedures and records and conducted field observations of the Las Flores facility, the pump stations at Gaviota and Sisquoc, the control room in Santa Maria, and the offshore Harmony platform,” Daugherty wrote. Daugherty noted that PHMSA’s evaluation confirmed that the Las Flores pipeline met certain thresholds to be classified as an interstate pipeline, based on the agency’s “interpretation on the delineation between federal and state jurisdiction.” The pipeline system’s transportation of crude oil from offshore platforms in federal waters, or the outer continental shelf, to the Santa Ynez Unit’s onshore processing facility and continued transportation to Pentland Station terminal

in Kern County were among the determining factors, Daugherty wrote. Sable’s initial outreach to PHMSA followed the Board of Supervisors’ Nov. 4 vote for staff to bring back findings to deny Sable’s county permit transfer requests. Although Sable currently owns the Las Flores pipeline, the county permits to resume oil production operations at the site are still under the name of its previous owner, ExxonMobil. “A lot of people out in the public think that by transferring a name on a permit that somehow it’s stopping production of oil at this facility. The truth is they’re already producing oil at this facility,” 4th District Supervisor Bob Nelson said at the board’s Dec. 16 meeting. “We can continue to fight this fight up here where we don’t transfer it. At the end of the day, Sable is still going to be there.” The board ultimately approved staff’s findings to deny the transfers with a 3-1 vote. Nelson dissented, while 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann recused herself. “My participation in the Sable issues has been somewhat convoluted,” Hartmann said at the hearing. The FPPC, which previously gave Hartmann the green light to vote on resolutions related to Sable, was under the impression that her property in the Santa Ynez Valley was between 1,000 and 900 feet away from the Las Flores pipeline, based on a crude map and analysis that county staff provided. “About a week and a half ago, Sable provided information stating that the pipeline runs within 8 feet of my property,” Hartmann said at the Dec. 16 meeting, “something, I would note, they could have provided previously.” —Caleb Wiseblood

Lompoc Police Department’s Drone First Responder program is ready to take flight Lompoc City Council members approved a deal for the Lompoc Police Department to buy and operate drones as first responders on calls. Officials hope deploying the drones will improve public safety and the department’s efficiency. At the Dec. 16 meeting, council members voted 5-0 for a two-year pilot period, which will cost $100,000 per year. With that budget, the Police Department will buy two Flock Aerodome systems from the company Flock Safety for the Drone First Responder (DFR) program. In addition, one community service officer position specializing in operating the drones will be added to the department’s budget. “This is enhancing our ability to provide the service we needed to provide to the community but not take the officers off the street,” Lompoc Police Chief Kevin Martin said at the meeting.

Drones aren’t meant to replace police officers. They’re intended to give extra support to a department that is well below the national average of officers per capita. If Lompoc’s budget supported the country’s average of 2.4 officers per 1,000 residents, the city would have 106 funded positions compared to the current 50, according to the staff report. For the first year and a half, the cost of the specialized officer and the DFR program will be covered by previous grant funds, according to the staff report. The last six months of the program will fall in the 2027-28 fiscal year, and money will be taken from the general fund. When an officer remotely launches a drone, it can arrive to a scene from its centralized base within 86 seconds, according to Brett Kanda, a senior solutions specialist for Flock’s DFR program. Officers can watch the drone’s video feed on cellphones and on screens in their squad cars. Historically, Lompoc officers had to arrive at the scene before launching a drone. The Flock Aerodomes will respond to stolen vehicle calls and incidents where the suspect has fled or barricaded themselves inside a building. They’ll also fly over the city’s large parades and events to monitor activity. Councilmember Jeremy Ball brought up privacy issues for community members in the drone’s flight path. Lompoc residents expressed similar concerns, questioning whether the cameras will be used to spy on residents or make cases against people in court. While a drone is flying to the scene, by default the cameras are pointed toward the horizon, not at the ground, Kanda responded. Video retention will be dictated by the policy that the Lompoc Police Department creates. “What we do not want is the camera pointed at the ground as it’s transiting to the call for service,” Kanda added. “That camera will be pointed up at the horizon to ensure it is not looking in anybody’s backyard invading anybody’s privacy.” The Police Department already contracts with Flock Safety for other resources including cameras that read license plates. Since Flock infrastructure already exists in Lompoc, it’ll be easier to incorporate the hardware and software for the two Flock Aerodome systems. Other police departments in the country are using Flock Aerodomes as first responders, too. In California for example, the Hawthorne Police Department has used them on 827 calls, leading to 286 subjects located, according to the staff report. The city of Lompoc’s website will add a community information portal for DFR calls. Users can see the drones’ flight paths, what type of incidents they flew to, and which agency responded, Kanda explained. The dashboard

NEWS continued page 4

www.santamariasun.com • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • Sun • 3

News NEWS from page 3 should be available after Flock trains the department and the first mission is completed. While documents and contracts are still being signed, the delivery date of the drones isn’t yet known. —Madison White

Buellton Planning Commission approves new self-storage site on Industrial Way When Daniel Contreras rounded out Buellton’s five-member Planning Commission, one of his first goals was to help the city make better use of existing properties that become idle for one reason or another. “[We] have a lot of facilities and parcels that are just gathering dust at the moment, and we’re not revitalizing those areas,” he told the Sun in October. “I think it’s very important that we get to revitalize those areas before we go on to [develop] our open spaces.” Two months later, Contreras was part of the 4-0 vote (Planning Commissioner Shannon Reese was absent) to support a project that repurposes a 40,000-square-foot warehouse, formerly occupied by a local wine wholesaler, into a self-storage facility. “I’ve seen this property vacant for some time. So, I’m very happy that someone’s able to get this property going and do something with it,” Contreras said at the Planning Commission’s Dec. 18 meeting. “I’m really happy to see that it’s going to be utilized.” Located at 70 Industrial Way, the warehouse was built in 2004, more than a decade before Buellton adopted its architectural design guidelines. Other than Avenue of the Flags, which dictates that developers uphold Art Deco

motifs, Buellton requires new developments to follow either Mission Revival or agrarian ranchstyle designs. “These are neither,” Buellton Associate Planner Cara Miralles said about some modifications the project applicant proposed to add to the site. “Instead they’re going to complement the existing building. So, what we’re asking is basically an exception … to the design guideline requirement.” While the developer would divide the existing warehouse’s interior space into 470 storage units, 44 additional drive-up storage units (about 8,800 square-feet in total) were proposed for the exterior. “Because those are new, those are subject to the design guidelines,” Miralles explained. Planning Commission members agreed that it would be better for the new storage units to complement the existing character of the building, after a brief presentation from applicant Jacob Adler. “If we were to design them perfectly to your design standards, there would also be a mismatch between the existing facility and the new components coming in,” said Adler, who added that he’s owned the project site since August. Before the purchase, the property was vacant for at least two years, Miralles told the Planning Commission. Its last occupant was Terravant Wine Company, aka Summerland Wine Brands. “As much as I would like to see things more unified throughout the city, in architectural style, I do understand why you guys are asking for these modifications,” Commissioner Contreras told Adler, shortly before the commission approved the applicant’s final development plan. “I think we all need more storage, to be honest,” Contreras added, “because I’m looking for storage myself.” m —Caleb Wiseblood

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TIME CAPSULE: Closed since 1991, Guadalupe’s historic Royal Theater is about to undergo a major makeover, starting with the removal of asbestos and other hazardous materials at the site.

Falling into place As the Royal Theater breaks ground on revamp, Guadalupe gets ready to ramp up fundraising and oversight

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

n the pantheon of roadblocks that have slowed down efforts to resurrect Guadalupe’s shuttered Royal Theater, asbestos is the latest hiccup keeping the $13 million project at a temporary standstill. Two weeks after local organizers and elected officials held a formal groundbreaking to celebrate the reboot reaching its construction phase (to transform the vacant venue into a multi-faceted performing arts center by March 2027), Project Manager Tom Brandeberry put the work on hold. Before construction could begin, subcontractors needed to remove asbestos, mold, and lead from inside of the theater, he explained. Workers began collecting samples of hazardous materials at the site about six months ago as part of the mitigation process. “While the reports were done showing where the hazards were, the company that did the testing sent their samples to a testing lab that has since closed for business,” Brandeberry told the Sun. “That third party testing lab has gone bankrupt. They don’t exist anymore. So, the [Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District] says they can’t accept these tests.” Brandeberry said he has the necessary paperwork for contractors to schedule a second site visit with the Air Pollution Control District, which he’s confident will give the go-ahead to move forward with mitigation before the end of the year. “Like all construction projects, issues pop up,” he said. “With that said, everyone adjusts—put one task down while the issue is resolved and do one of the thousands of other tasks.” Among the project’s biggest tasks is to secure the $3 million needed to complete its $13 million budget. In January, Brandeberry plans to present the Guadalupe City Council with ideas he brainstormed with a team of eight volunteers to help ramp up fundraising efforts.

6 • Sun • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

“At the second [City Council] meeting of January, our volunteer team will have a full idea of what the campaign will be doing,” Brandeberry said. “For example, right now, we’re working on some kind of a plaque behind each of the chairs.” Donors who give a certain amount could have their name engraved on one of the plaques or on a special donor board Brandeberry’s team will also propose. In the meantime, anyone interested in donating directly to the Royal Theater’s renovation project can do so online at guadalupecac.org. Brandeberry said he wants to hear City Council input in January before kick-starting the plaque offering and other fundraising ideas. January will also mark the City Council’s first opportunity to appoint a new five-member Brown Act board, created to oversee the remainder of the Royal Theater project with opportunities for the public to weigh in on its progress. During the council’s last meeting of December, city staff said that six applicants threw their names in to be considered. However, staff also suggested that the council postpone enacting the Brown Act board. “Just because there has been movement in city staff, and it will cause an influx in staff reports. And we’re already falling behind on things,” Interim City Administrator David Trujillo said during the Dec. 9 meeting, which marked his first hearing since taking on the new role Dec. 1. “The other option would be to professionally outsource it,” he said. “That would be like the worst-case scenario, I guess, because it will cost money for the city.” Councilmember Whitney Furness was the first to respond to Trujillo’s request. “Didn’t we already decide that we wanted to move forward with that though as a council?” Furness said, referring to council’s September

vote to create the oversight committee. “We can move forward with the appointment process,” City Attorney Philip Sinco said. “So we’re going to move forward with what we already decided in a previous meeting, is that correct? Sounds great,” Furness said. “Thank you.” It wasn’t the first time Furness vouched for increased city oversight of the Royal Theater project. In May, she scrutinized Project Manager Brandeberry’s summary of soft cost estimates that listed $2.9 million as its final total, while simultaneously including line items that added up to about $2.2 million. At the council’s Dec. 9 meeting, Interim City Administrator Trujillo said that Brandeberry has been working on “a lot of reconciliation, with all his invoices and the past invoices for the theater.” In an email interview, Furness told the Sun that her goal “has always been to ask the necessary questions and advocate for processes that will help ensure this project serves our community well for many years to come.” “Asking these questions is part of my responsibility as a council member,” Furness said. “I have heard from residents who are unsure about where the project stands, and others who have expressed concerns about the consistency and professionalism of communications related to the project.” Furness described herself as “a big cheerleader” for the theater’s revival, even before she was elected to serve on the council in 2024. “My dad grew up in Guadalupe and told me that he used to go to the Royal Theater on Sundays. I remember driving by it and wishing it were open, always wondering what was inside,” she said about the venue, closed since 1991. “I first learned it would be renovated in 2020, … and I was very excited. I even posted about it on my Facebook at the time. “When I applied for the open position on the council, I spoke about wanting to help support the project and that I was a strong proponent of seeing it move forward,” Furness said. “It felt like a rare opportunity to help bring something back that so many people remember.” m Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

News

SPOTLIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF APRIL HUCKABEY

posture, and get up off the floor after playing with their grandkids. Boxers also see mental and cognitive benefits. Even remembering long punching combinations exercises the brain. The concept started nine years ago when Huckabey was a personal trainer. She started working with a client who had Parkinson’s, researching the trainings at another boxing gym specifically for Parkinson’s patients. Within three months of training, her first client went from shuffling his feet to jumping rope. His golf game was back, too. “That was amazing. I was so happy for him.” Huckabey said. “I was like, ‘OK. We have to help other people.’” Shortly after starting Neurofighters, Huckabey partnered with Marian Regional Medical Center. Since 2019 the studio has been located at the JAB, CROSS, HOOK: At Neurofighters, boxers use speed bags as part Marian Health and of their training to tackle neurological conditions. Participants say the Wellness Center in noncontact boxing improves movement and cognition. Santa Maria. “I never thought I’d have a job like this,” she said. “It’s just really neat to work with people and help them feel better.” pay for the classes, At Santa Maria’s Neurofighters gym, butParticipants Huckabey offers a reduced rate for those who need it. As a nonprofit, boxers combat the progression of Neurofighters accepts donations and neurological conditions hosts fundraisers to keep the lights on BY MADISON WHITE and maintain the equipment. For a while, Huckabey was the only coach round 20 boxers filed into a studio on East until her sister joined a year ago. Every Monday, Main Street on a Wednesday afternoon Wednesday, and Friday, they run three classes, in December. Led by sisters Kristi Boasso including one online. and April Huckabey, the class warmed up with Many boxers bring their caregivers—also moves like marching in place, opening and known as cornermen—to class, and it’s become closing their fists, and cross body punches. The a community for them too. oldies station was on, and a few participants “When I started this, my whole goal was sang along. not to just have a class,” For the rest of the hour, Huckabey said. “It was to have Huckabey instructed the main Neuro-boxers a community. It was to have workout. Side lunges, jabs, For information about class demos people that are going through skater squats, and sit-to-stands and schedules, visit neurofighters.org the same stuff be able to talk with crossed arms were in the or call (805) 698-1983. Follow along to each other and be able rotation. on Instagram @neurofightersinc. to socialize … . It has really The boxers at Neurofighters become a community.” all have neurological conditions. Most fighters are MUSIC Highlights between 75 and 85 years old, but the youngest is 39 and the oldest is 92. Some live with • The city of Lompoc partnered with FlashVote Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, ALS, and MS. Others to collect anonymous FLAVOR/EATS surveys from residents have had strokes or injuries. that’ll inform municipal decisions. Participants can give input via email, text, or phone call in a “We combat it through the noncontact INFO 48-hour window after each survey is released. boxing and functional exercise,” Huckabey, After the survey closes, voters will receive the gym’s founder, told the Sun during a break a summary of the responses. To sign up for between classes. “The biggest compliment I get CALENDAR FlashVote, email or text (775) 235-2240 or visit is, ‘I can get off the toilet now.’” flashvote.com/lompoc. Call (805) 875-8278 with Everyone is at a different level, but most, if questions. OPINION not all, improve. As one boxer came through • Santa Ynez Valley library cardholders can the doors for the Wednesday class, Huckabey reserve a vehicle pass to visit state parks. Passes pointed out that a month and a half ago he used at the Solvang and Buellton libraries. a motorized wheelchair to come into class. Now, are availableNEWS They allow vehicles to park for free he walks in with a walker. during the day at more than 200 “His wife doesn’t STROKES state parks. Patrons can check out a even bring a wheelchair pass for three weeks. m anymore,” Huckabey said. Send business and Other participants have nonprofit information to ARTS Reach Staff Writer Madison White regained the ability to spotlight@santamariasun.com. at mwhite@santamariasun.com. write, drive a car, have good

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Opinion ONLINE POLL

How should the Sheriff’s Office handle its 2,000 outstanding warrants?

66% Continue prioritizing the 400 warrants for violent felonies. 34% Why are there 400 outstanding felony warrants?! 0% Stick to arresting possible felons when they happen to be found. 0% Make these arrests, then focus on crime prevention.

3 Votes

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COMMENTARY

➤ Canary [9]

But first, Christmas Reflect on the most wonderful time of the year before 2026

BY RON FINK

are very few displays in our storefronts. Most developers have done away with the large ell, the Christmas parades are behind windows that used to house the colorful us; all the Christmas displays are up displays because of “security reasons.” Besides, and running, and the Lompoc City if merchants did erect such displays, someone electric division is counting more revenue could complain and just cause merchants a lot from all those home-lighting themes. of grief. When I was young, Christmas morning But Christmas lights and displays are was the long-awaited culmination of a boy’s a common sight in the yards of Lompoc. hopes and dreams. We saw angels, mangers, Hundreds of houses are lit up with icicles, tumbleweed snowmen, and Santa’s sleighs Santas, reindeer, and snowmen. The power erected in front of City Hall, the library, and lines must hum throughout the month of many other public places. December as residents erect even larger Store windows on Wilshire Avenue along displays than the year before. Thankfully the the “miracle mile” in downtown Los Angeles city still places illuminated Christmas trees were alight with merry displays—some had on all the light poles and elaborate religious scenes there are those Christmas complete with moving figures, trees all over town, which is huge Lionel train sets looping sentimental. through miniature towns, I did a quick internet and seemingly live reindeer search in the week leading up pulling gift-laden sleighs to Christmas and discovered through the winter sky. that Santa is busy carboThose were good old days: loading Donner and Blitzen no 24-hour news networks, so they can help the other no internet to bombard us reindeer drag his heavy sleigh with more information than around the world. Not to be we could possibly process, left out, Rudolph is pounding energy drinks and no cellphones. And there were only a so that his nose will be bright enough to guide handful of black and white TV stations for MUSIC the team toward your house. entertainment. The internet is buzzing with shoppers, I can still remember the first time I saw and the package delivery companies are busy snow on Christmas. I was raised in Southern FLAVOR/EATS hauling packages to every part of town. I have California, and the only snow we saw was on been trying to think of the perfect Christmas our TV screen. I was stationed at Rhine-Main gift, but with INFO so many choices it’s hard to Air Base, just outside of Frankfurt, Germany, settle on just one. But I think I got it. and it snowed several inches on “the night At my age a new recliner would fit the bill. before Christmas.” Not just your CALENDAR ordinary tilt-back version but It was an amazing sight for an 18-year-old one with all the bells and far from home. I was off duty, whistles an old man could so I took a long walk in the OPINION wish for. pine forest surrounding our The first thing is an air base that morning and Send us your electronic seat warmer/ then went to the mess hall views and opinion to NEWS cooler that could be and ate a big turkey dinner. letters@santamariasun.com. adjusted by the occupant Here in Lompoc, there

TO ADVERTISE DISPLAY ADS | Rates and special discounts are available. Call our ad department at (805) 347-1968. CLASSIFIEDS | Call (805) 546-8208, Ext. 211. Visa and MasterCard accepted. ONLINE Visit the Sun web site at www.santamariasun.com. Our site was developed and designed by Foundation, a website development company (www.newspack.com). The Sun is published every Thursday for your enjoyment. One copy of each issue is available free to Northern Santa Barbara County residents and visitors. Subscriptions to the Sun are $156 per year. The entire contents of the Sun are copyrighted by the Sun and cannot be reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher. Because a product or service is advertised in the Sun does not mean that we endorse its use. We hope readers will use their own good judgement in choosing products most beneficial to their well-being. We welcome submissions. Please accompany them with a selfaddressed, stamped envelope. All letters to the editor become the property of the Sun. © 2025 Sun

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When I was young, Christmas morning was the long-awaited culmination of a boy’s hopes and dreams.

Speak up!

STROKES

ARTS

MAYFIELD

to fit the current weather conditions. Next is a pocket for the TV remote so you don’t have to search for it. Plugs for your cellphone and a Wi-Fi speaker system fitted into the headrest so you can hear all your favorite shows without disturbing the neighbors. Heated and cooled cup holders to keep your favorite beverage handy and at the proper temperature. A clip on the side of one of the arms to keep a corn chip sack or popcorn within easy reach. I guess I can keep dreaming about my dream recliner; besides if they built one like that, I probably couldn’t afford it. On the more serious side, Christmas is the iconic celebration of the birth of Christ and one of the best holidays of the year. Now get ready for the Tournament of Roses Parade and the Rose Bowl game. m Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.

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We want to know what you think about everything. Send your 250-word letter to Sun Letters, 801 S Broadway Suite 3, Santa Maria, CA 93454. You can also fax it (1-805-546-8641) or e-mail it (letters@ santamariasun.com). All letters must include a name, address, and phone number for verification purposes; may be edited for space or clarity; and will be posted to santamariasun.com.

LETTERS Trump’s deal-making benefits the world, not us

The international equivalent of the S&P 500 Index is the ACWI Index, which tracks large and mid-cap stocks in almost 50 developed countries and emerging markets. It usually performs similar the S&P 500 and at times even underperforms it. This year, since Trump took over, the S&P 500 is up almost 18 percent, which is respectable, especially considering that it dropped 15 percent within his first few months in office. On the other hand, since Trump took over, the ACWI World Index is up 31 percent. So, who do you think is doing better with all this tariff business? So much for the great orange deal-maker. The rest of the world is laughing at him, all the while hoping for more deals in the future.

Mark Henry San Luis Obispo

We don’t need them, we don’t want them

The idea of building new houses, creating new jobs isn’t all that great if this offshore wind thing unfortunately unfolds. There will come a time when the construction jobs are done and the people who live in those houses will be off to other work. The noise, the bad air that will be present during construction, maintenance, and operation will be oppressive. The loss of local business and jobs and the loss of home values will be devastating and heartbreaking. If it wasn’t for the tax credits, this wouldn’t happen. There is no “pot of gold” at the end of this storm. The lives of many people and marine life will be greatly impacted by this offshore wind disaster of enormous consequences. Warren Buffett himself said, “We get a tax credit if we build a lot of wind farms. That’s the only reason to build them. They don’t make sense without the tax credit.” The rich get richer, and we pay the taxes!

Ellie Ripley Arroyo Grande

8 • Sun • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Opinion

Tough crowd

nyone who thought that Guadalupe’s downtown was finally going to be home to construction activities on the Royal Theater revamp needs to wait just a little bit longer. After breaking ground in early December, the project hit another snag. The city needs Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District [APCD] approval to move forward with mitigating hazardous materials in the building. This time, Guadalupe didn’t wait until the last minute to take care of this issue. Workers collected asbestos, lead, and mold samples about six months ago and sent them off to a lab for testing. But, plot twist! “The company that did the testing sent their samples to a testing lab that has since closed for business,” Project Manager Tom Brandeberry said. “The third party testing lab has gone bankrupt. They don’t exist anymore.” So, the APCD isn’t accepting the test results. Are we in a sitcom? The number of snafus and snags this project has hit along its path to renewal is staggering! So, again, the project is on hold while the APCD gets ready to conduct another site visit and Guadalupe waits for the thumbs up. Poor new Interim City Administrator David Trujillo (who had only been the public works director for a few months) is probably regretting stepping into the role vacated by Todd Bodem until the Guadalupe City Council hires someone. Councilmember Whitney Furness gave him the what for on Dec. 9, when he suggested giving city staff a little more time to get their feet underneath them before moving forward with creating the Brown Act committee that will

eventually provide theater project oversight. “We’re already falling behind on things,” he told the council. But Furness wasn’t having it. “Didn’t we already decide that we wanted to move forward with that though, as a council?” she said. City Attorney Phil Sinco stepped in to rescue Trujillo, saying that the committee appointment process could move forward. “So we’re going to move forward with what we already decided in a previous meeting, is that correct? Sounds great,” Furness said. Oof. Tough crowd. A little terse for Trujillo’s first meeting as the top dog. You know where else there’s a tough crowd? Anytime Sable Offshore goes before the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors. Supes denied the oil company a permit transfer for the Las Flores Pipeline and its associated parts and pieces on Dec. 16. And then the Trump administration basically gave California and the county the middle finger by taking control of oversight of the pipeline. The U.S. Department of Transportation will wrest the regulatory burden from the state fire marshal, and probably give Sable the go-ahead whether anyone in this state wants it or not. Fourth District county Supervisor Bob Nelson said it best at the Dec. 16 meeting: “A lot of people out in the public think that by transferring a name on a permit that somehow it’s stopping production of oil at this facility. The truth is they’re already producing oil at this facility.” It sure seems like Sable’s going to do what it wants, with or without the county’s or the state’s blessings. m

Wishing Everyone Peace and Joy This Holiday Season

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The Canary is always wrestling with a tough crowd. Send laughs to canary@santamariasun.com.

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SCAN TO CONTRIBUTE www.santamariasun.com • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • Sun • 9

Hot Stuff

10-DAY CALENDAR: DECEMBER 25, 2025 - JANUARY 4, 2026

COMMUNITY COUNTDOWN

Ring in the new year with Denmark during the Copenhagen Countdown event on Wednesday, Dec. 31, from 2 to 4 p.m, in Solvang Park. Local ’80s tribute band The Molly Ringwald Project is set to perform live, and there will be an array of festive food and drink. Visit solvangusa.com for more info about this familyfriendly gathering. —Angie Stevens PHOTO COURTESY OF SOLVANG USA

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/. FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. 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. 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 display their works at the airport. See website for details on exhibits and full list of the gallery’s artists. 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/ wild-in-california-2025. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

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. Various. (310) 384-6912. app.galabid.com/ aglibrary/items. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. 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

“ONE VISIT” POTTERY CLASS This is a great class if you are looking to try out pottery! Throw on the wheel or paint pre-made pottery. Get a student discount with a valid school ID. Fridays, 6-7:30 p.m. $75. (805) 896-6197. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com. 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. ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com. AQUARIUS 2026 WATERMEDIA EXHIBIT Central Coast Watercolor Society’s annual juried exhibit Aquarius 2026 will feature excellence in watermedia painting, and invites California artists to enter. See website for details. Through Jan. 4, 2026 $25-$65. ccwsart.com/aquarius-2026. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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. 10 • Sun • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

ART AFTER DARK Art After Dark features an art opening of world-class artists. Refreshments will be served. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. slocountyarts.org/ art-after-dark. SLO County, Locations countywide, 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. BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. (805) 7474200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing (805) 8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, 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/babyhandprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece. Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue

INDEX Arts...................................... 10 Culture & Lifestyle ...........13 Food & Drink ......................15 Music ...................................16

provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP: LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. (805) 5438562. sloma.org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. FREE DOCENT TOURS Gain a deeper understanding of the artwork on view with SLOMA’s new docent tours. Every Saturday, join trained guides for interactive and engaging tours of SLOMA’s current exhibitions. Saturdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/visit/ tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad 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. LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. (805) 441-8257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com. MOBILE CLAY CLASSES Offering handbuilding, throwing, and ceramic decorative arts. All ages and abilities are welcome. Call for more info. ongoing (805)

835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/bookonline. SLO County, Locations countywide, San Luis Obispo. PAINT A PREMADE POTTERY PIECE! Drop into the studio to pick out and paint a premade piece! There is fun for all ages, and prices are based upon size. Mondays, Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2-7:30 p.m. $30$75. app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule. php?owner=22676824&appointmentTy pe=35974477. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., 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. SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age. Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com. 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/sijikrishnan/. 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.

ARTS continued page 13

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www.santamariasun.com • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • Sun • 11

Nature Lights 2025

NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 27

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31

SLO Botanical Garden

Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

Guadalupe 10 Comic Showcase

Saul Trujillo @ Giafunni’s

New Year’s Eve at the Maverick Saloon

Brass Mash First Friday in January

Maverick Saloon, Santa Ynez

Liquid Gravity Brewing Co, SLO

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31

NYE 2026 Funk Bizarre w/Pimps of Joytime

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2

Orcutt New Year’s Eve Block Party

Goddess Church: What’s Your Divine Feminine Archetype?

NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 31 Great Golf Courses all over California

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26 Guadalupe Social Club

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27 Giavanni’s Pizza, Santa Maria

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31 SLO Brew Rock, SLO

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31 Orcutt

Advanced Healthcare Directive Workshop

Full Moon Ceremony & 2026 Intention Setting

What’s the Big Deal About Bird Watching? MONDAY, JANUARY 5 Odd Fellows Hall, SLO

From the Stage

TUESDAY, JANUARY 6 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

Kids Creatives Club Weekly Art-n-Craft Classes

Crystal Clarity Sound “Bath” Journey

Always Patsy Cline

Resilience Sound Journey Cancer Support

Serenity Sound Journey

Intention Setting Collage mini-Retreat SUNDAY, JANUARY 11 525 Harbor St, Morro Bay

The Last Class with Robert Reich

MONDAY, JANUARY 12 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

Just Ducky Sound Bath

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13 CC Body Therapy Center, Los Osos

LSD & the Search for God

Wealth, Women & Woo

Bob & Wendy

SUNDAY, JANUARY 4 Los Osos or Morro Bay

SUNDAY, JANUARY 4 9th Limb Yoga, Morro Bay

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 Santa Maria Civc Center

SATURDAY, JANUARY 10 Adventist Health-Sierra Vista, SLO

SUNDAY, JANUARY 11 Gala Pride & Diversity Center, SLO

Brass Mash Live at the Pour House

Proxima Parada in Downtown SLO

VHS Fest 2.0

WEDNESDAYS, JAN. 7 - 28 Lor Coaching Studio, Morro Bay

SATURDAY, JANUARY 4 Goddess Temple, Morro Bay

FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 Mystic Nature, Nipomo

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16 The Pour House, Paso Robles

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

SATURDAY, JANUARY 17 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

SATURDAY, JANUARY 17 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 Crows End Retreat, SLO

SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 The Bunker SLO

The Who’s Rock Opera, ‘Tommy’ Fundraiser

New Beginnings

Babes Against the Machine

Mawtini-Arab American Narratives

The Freddie Ravel Trio

One Day Improv Festival

MONDAY, JANUARY 19 Bay Theatre, Morro Bay

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20 ACi Jet, SLO

12 • Sun • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24 Cal Poly Library, SLO

SUNDAY, JANUARY 25 Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, SLO

SATURDAY, JANUARY 31 San Luis Obispo Grange Hall

SELL TICKETS WITH US! 805-546-8208 INFO@MY805TIX.COM

Central Coast Golf Card

UPCOMING EVENTS ON MY805TIX.COM

Molly Ringwald Project New Year’s Eve Party

FEATURED EVENTS

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT MY805TIX.COM

Hot Stuff ARTS from page 10 NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. (559) 799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos. 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 handcarved 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. JANUARY 2026 GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE FEATURED ARTISTS January is Bird Festival month in Morro Bay and Gallery at Marina Square is featuring two group shows in celebration of birds. In the Upper Gallery, “Wingborne” features group photography, and in the Lower Gallery, a selection of paintings are featured. Jan. 1-29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com/. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay. THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. (805) 772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750. CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 6 p.m. Free. (805) 934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria.

DECEMBER 25, 2025 - JANUARY 4, 2026 FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 10-minute light and music display on the hour, ending with a “snow” flurry! Through 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. Jan. 4, 2026, 5-9:15 p.m. (805) 465-7298. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, solvangusa.com/things-to-do/solvang420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month julefest. Solvang Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang. facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and LOMPOC/VANDENBERG Union Ave., Orcutt. LOMPOC ART WALK Lompoc transforms FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17 into a celebration and showcase of Visit the Youth Services Desk on the local artists during this monthly event, first Sunday of each month to receive which features live music, art, exciting a coupon for a free book of your choice exhibitions, performances, and a variety from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. of unique vendors. First Thursday of every First Sunday of every month Free. (805) month, 5-8 p.m. Old Town Lompoc, H and I 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ St., Lompoc. departments/library. Santa Maria Public THE VILLAGE TREASURE CHEST This Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. event is for the whole family. There will GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check be vendors selling their wears, music, website for the remainder of this year’s facepainting, and some kind of food booth. group hike dates and private hike offerings. Come out and spend part of your Saturday ongoing (805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org. supporting local vendors. First Saturday Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Guadalupe St., Guadalupe. Vandenberg Village Community Services NOON YEAR’S CELEBRATION DANCE District Office, 3745 Constellation Road, Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens Lompoc, (805) 291-6370. presents “Noon Year’s Celebration” with SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y the Riptide Big Band and vocalists. Dec. 31, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (775) 813-5186. BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy riptidebb.com/. Elwin Mussell Senior the grace and flow of ballet. No previous Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria. experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 ORCUTT NEW YEAR’S EVE BLOCK PARTY p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. MUSIC (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Celebrate New Year’s with “The Family” at Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Old Town Wine & Brew, Lark + Sparrow, Grover Beach. and Naughty Oak! Dec. 31, 6 p.m.-midnight FLAVOR/EATS $35. my805tix.com/e/orcuttnye-25/tickets. CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER AT MARISOL Naughty Oak Brewing Co., 165 S. Broadway Holiday cheer served one course at a St. suite 102, Orcutt. INFO time! Make spirits bright with a threecourse Christmas Eve menu made for celebrating. Reservations are required. CALENDAR Call 805-556-3316. Dec. 24, 1-8 p.m. $90. (805) 773-5000. cliffshotelandspa.com/ event/christmas-eve-dinner-at-marisol/. Send event information to calendar@ OPINION The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach santamariasun.com. Rd, Pismo Beach. NEWS COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN SANTA YNEZ VALLE Y MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks COPENHAGEN COUNTDOWN Ring in the STROKES including pathways maintenance, litter New Year alongside Denmark (3:00pm) patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, at this family-friendly countdown to ‘midnight.’ The Molly Ringwald Project ARTS irrigation system expansion/repairs, pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should tribute band will perform live, and food bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, and drinks will be available. Dec. 31, 2-4 and tools related to the above activities. p.m. (805) 465-7298. solvangusa.com/ First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon things-to-do/solvang-julefest/. Solvang Free. (805) 710-3073. Nipomo Native Park, Mission Dr. and First St., Solvang. Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo. NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE MAVERICK DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE SALOON Ring in the New Year with food, FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of drinks, and dancing. Get tickets and artistic expression and exercise, using a additional details at the link. Dec. 31, 8 wide range of styles and genres of music p.m.-1:30 a.m. my805tix.com. Maverick (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for (805) 686-4785. four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. SOLVANG JULEFEST Solvang Julefest is a Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 month of lights, celebratory happenings, Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. and holiday cheer. There will be a tree DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR lighting ceremony, parade, Santa visits, FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND outdoor Christmas markets, New Year’s CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Eve event, and more! Through Jan. 4, Contact empoweryoga805@gmail 2026, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. (805) 465-7298. for details and reservations. ongoing solvangusa.com. Downtown Solvang, (805) 619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Citywide, Solvang. Empower Yoga Studio and Community SOLVANG JULEFEST LIGHT, MUSIC & Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach. SNOW SHOWS Every night during Solvang CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 14 Julefest, Solvang Park will sparkle with a

The That’s Fetch Pet Bowtique Grooming Department: Bella, Colette, Z, Cody, Maddie & Janae. Front Desk Reception: Linda, Addy, Analisa & MaryJane. To the Best Clients & Fur Babies, Thank you! (805) 361-0802

ThatsFETCH805.com

SELL TICKETS WITH US! IT’S FREE! CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO. 805-546-8208

Jagg with The Airwaves & Ultraviolets

Scoundrel, Captive State, Perception SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 508 S. Main St, Templeton

Somatic Magic Retreat

Joyful Rhythms Drum Circle

Propagation Station Class

SATURDAY, JANUARY 31 The Bunker SLO

Zoe Basha with Miss Leo

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 6430 Squire Ct, SLO

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Gala Pride & Diversity Center, SLO

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12 The Pottery Atascadero, Atascadero

Trestles & The Dirty Turkeys

Mininova-Love Will Conquer All

Savage Master

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Happy Holidays!

3564 Skyway Dr., S.M.

Tickets on sale now at My805Tix.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12 Libertine Brewing Co, SLO

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13 Gathering House at UCC, SLO

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Humdinger Brewing, SLO

Roy Orbison Returns

SLO Craft Beer Fest

Santa Barbara Winter Wedding Expo

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Templeton Performing Arts Center

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Alex Madonna Expo Center, SLO

SUNDAY, MARCH 1 Santa Barbara Women’s Club

Renaissance, Baroque & Beyond: Sacred & Profane

From the Barrel

Central Coast Jazz Guitar Fest!

SUNDAY, MARCH 1 United Methodist Church, SLO

FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Paso Robles

FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Santa Ynez Valley Marriott, Buellton

The House at Pooh Corner

Learn to Sail

13th Annual Ventura County Farm Day

FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Santa Maria Civc Theatre

Grooming Team: Colette Florey, Dzi, Janae Amador, Isabella Moreno & Yuritzi Grooming Externs: Cody Dugan & Holly Prewitt Groomers Assistants: Brandi Janke & Ryleigh MacLean

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 Morro Bay Yacht Club

SATURDAY, APRIL 11 Multiple Locations, California

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www.santamariasun.com • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • Sun • 13

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14 • Sun • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

Hot Stuff CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 13 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 dropin; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY AT THE CLIFFS Make this night yours! Grab your friends, your partner, or your favorite dance partner to bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026 in pure style. Dec. 31, 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m. $100-$150. (805) 773-5000. cliffshotelandspa.com. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo 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. QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach. QI GONG: MINDFUL MOVEMENTS FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Balance your mind, body, and spirit with Qi Gong — gentle stretching and strengthening movements that promotes physical wellbeing and inner peace. This is geared towards all fitness levels and ages. Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach. SAN LUIS OBISPO

30-DAY BREATH AND RESET JOURNEY FOR WOMEN Wired at night, drained all day? Reset your body in 30 days. Focus on breath practices to calm stress, sleep deeply, and restore lasting energy. Registration is required. Tuesdays, 6:307:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody.com. Live Webinar, online, SLO County. BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 9059274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. BOOK BUDDIES Bookworms, assemble! Woods Humane Society is welcoming animal lovers age 7 to 17 to join us in reading to our furry friends. Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $5. (805) 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/youthprograms. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo. CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346. CARE CREW Calling all crafty, caring, pet-loving kids! Care Crew members will join us in filling Kongs for our canines, crafting pet toys, and creating art. Sundays, 2-3:30 p.m. $5. (805) 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/ youth-programs. Calling all crafty, caring, pet-loving kids! Care Crew members will have the opportunity to join us in filling Kongs, making pet toys, and creating artwork. Sundays, 2-3:30 p.m. $5. (805) 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

DECEMBER 25, 2025 - JANUARY 4, 2026 Therapy, 1422 Monterey Street, Suite C-102, CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-5100. based. All are welcome. Please wear a SLO COMMUNITY HOLIDAY FEAST mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:30Enjoy a delicious holiday dinner with 11:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church live musical entertainment! Winter SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo. clothing care packages are available CHRISTMAS DINNER AT THE GARDENS to the unhoused community. To OF AVILA Celebrate the season at donate or volunteer, visit the website Sycamore Springs Mineral Resort and Spa. provided. Dec. 25, 2:45-5:45 p.m. Free. Dec. 25, 3-9 p.m. $80. (805) 595 - 7302. slocommunitycares.org. SLO Community sycamoresprings.com. Sycamore Mineral Holiday Feast!, 801 Grand Ave, Springs Resort and Spa, 1215 Avila Beach San Luis Obispo, (805) 458-9567. Drive, San Luis Obispo. SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For MEETINGS Want to improve speaking the early riser or commuter, every and leadership skills in a supportive and weekday morning. Maintain or improve positive environment? During COVID, we concentration, balance, and flexibility. are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. with more practices. Led by certified Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Awareness Through Movement teacher. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or 280-5800. margotschaal.com/qigong. retirees that get together just for the fun, Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San independence of retirement. Thursdays, Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. in 1772. Come learn its history and retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 importance to the development of this area. Tours are led by docents and meet in Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo. front of the church Sundays, 2:30 p.m. and STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15 p.m. Free. (805) boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, 550-7713. missionslodocents.org. Mission improves balance and flexibility, and, best San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace San Luis Obispo. for this outdoor class which is held in HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT a beautiful setting. Call or email before GROUP A safe place to share feelings MUSICattending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. of depression with those who suffer Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., and those who have recovered to a full, San Luis Obispo. healthy outlook on life. Mondays, FLAVOR/EATS SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, San Luis Obispo. INFO worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for CALENDAR membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. Send event information to calendar@ No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See OPINION website, San Luis Obispo. santamariasun.com. TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT NEWSGROUP Learn more about mental health MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE Stretch and coping skills to help you through your into yourself under the beautiful oaks and journey towards wellness and recovery. fresh air of this idyllic country setting. STROKES Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 540Suitable for all levels, these classes 6576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness emphasize the gentler side of yoga and Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, ARTS TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for five-class CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. 1906, has a rich history that The Land balancedlivingayurveda.com. Tiber Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, looks forward to sharing with visitors. San Luis Obispo. Please RSVP. Fourth Sunday of every MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are (ONLINE) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org. San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346. TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space NATURE LIGHTS SLO Botanical Garden’s providing peer-to-peer support for trans, holiday tradition, Nature Lights, features gender non-conforming, non-binary, magical displays, live music, local chefs, and questioning people. In-person and an artists’ market. Fridays, Saturdays, and Zoom meetings held. Contact 5-8 p.m. through Dec. 27 $18-$28. (805) tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more 541-1400. slobg.org/naturelights/. San Luis details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Obispo Botanical Gardens, 3450 Dairy Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Creek Rd, San Luis Obispo. Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252. PUPPY SOCIAL HOUR Puppies (10 weeks WINTER GYMNASTICS CAMP Flip into to 5 months old) will learn appropriate a fabulous future with friends ages 4 play style with other pups, acceptable to 13. There are half-days, full-days, manners with people, tolerance for and extended care, customizable for gentle restraints, confidence with your perfect schedule. Dec. 29, 9:30 the approach of friendly strangers, a.m.-2:30 p.m. $45-$396. (805) 547-1496. and more. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. and performanceathleticsslo.com/camps. Saturdays, 9 a.m. $25. (805) 543-9316. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 woodshumanesociety.org/training/. Broad St., San Luis Obispo. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo. NORTH COAST SLO COUNT Y Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA CAMBRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET ZOOM) This is a social support group for Celebrate the 14th Annual Cambria LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between Christmas Market, which opens on Nov. the ages of 11-18. Each week the group 28, and goes until Dec. 31. The market is explores personal, cultural, and social closed on Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 24, and 25. More identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. information is available at the link. Through galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, Dec. 31, 5-9 p.m. $27-$45. (800) 966-6490. San Luis Obispo. cambriachristmasmarket.com/. Cambria QI GONG AT SPIRIT WINDS PHYSICAL Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria. THERAPY This class will lay a foundation CENTRAL COAST SLIM DOWN Take for health and vitality by integrating joint control of food without suffering. Learn mobility, flowing movement, energizing a step-by-step process to take control of breathwork, and mindfulness practices. overeating, cravings, and feel peace with Join now! Wednesdays. through Dec. 31 $23. my805tix.com. Spirit Winds Physical CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 15

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Hot Stuff

DECEMBER 25, 2025 - JANUARY 4, 2026 PHOTO COURTESY OF LES DORMAN

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 14 food. Build the habits, mindset, and your unique path with results that stick. Hosted byTami Cruz (Certified Health/Life Coach) and Dana Charvet (Coach/Fitness Trainer). ongoing Call for pricing info. (805) 2357978. gratefulbodyhealthcoaching.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. CENTRAL COAST UECHI-RYU KARATEDO Uechi-Ryu Karate-do is a traditional form of karate originating from Okinawa, Japan. Focus is on fitness, flexibility, and self-defense with emphasis on self -growth, humility, and respect. Open to ages 13 to adult. Beginners and experienced welcome. Instructor with 50 years experience. For info, call 805-215-8806. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278, morro-bay.ca.us. CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, (805) 772-2840, sttimothymorrobay.org/. CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS MEETING Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step recovery program for anyone who desires to have healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others. Meeting is hybrid (both in person and on Zoom). For information, call 805-900-5237. Saturdays, 1-2:15 p.m. Free. thecambriaconnection.org/. Cambria Connection, 1069 Main St., Cambria, (805) 927-1654. LOS OSOS SUNDAY MEDITATION CLASS Sitting with a supportive group strengthens one’s meditation practice. Join us for a weekly talk on topics related to meditation and consciousness plus silent and guided meditation. Facilitated by Devin Wallace. Beginners welcome. Email devinwalla@gmail.com for more information. Sundays, 10:15 a.m.-11:15 p.m. By donation. (805) 709-2227. inner-workings.com. Central Coast Body Therapy Center, 2005 9th St., Los Osos. MAIDEN TO CRONE SISTER CIRCLE Connect deeply with other women. Sharing the things that are close to our hearts creates a space of shared vulnerability that leads to deep connection. First Sunday of every month, 9-11 a.m. my805tix.com. From the Roots Up Healing Studio, 2055 9th St., Los Osos.

SWING AND DANCE

The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens presents Noon Year’s Celebration Dance on Wednesday, Dec. 31, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Elwin Mussell Senior Center in Santa Maria. Swing and dance to the tunes of Riptide Big Band and various vocalists. For additional information, visit riptidebb.com. —A.S. MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS DISCUSSION GROUP A group of metaphysically minded individuals that have been meeting for many years now in the Coalesce Chapel. Club offers a supportive metaphysical based community. Members discuss a different topic each week. All are welcome to join. Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10-$15. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/. MORRO BAY MIXED MARTIAL ARTS Disciplines include advanced athletic performance fitness training, Thai kickboxing, and more. Beginners to advanced students welcome. Day and evening classes offered. MondaysSaturdays, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Call for more info. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY AT THE LODGE Ring in the New Year at the Cambria Pines Lodge! Celebrate in style with live music, festive flavors, handcrafted

drink specials, and a sparkling night. Dec. 31, 9 p.m.-midnight (805) 927-4200. cambriapineslodge.com/events/onsite. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria. OPEN FLOW: DANCE AND MOVEMENT A community of movers and shakers who come together to express themselves through dance and movement. Inspired by a variety of conscious movement modalities, Open Flow is led by Silvia Suarez and Matt Garrity, embodiment teachers who share a passion for integration through movement exploration. Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. $10 (general), $5 (ages 55+). SilviaAthaSomatics.org. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278. PUMPKIN PATCH Our Pumpkin Patch is officially open for the season! All of our pumpkins are thoughtfully grown by 46 Ranch and come in various sizes. Mondays-Sundays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 927-4747. cambrianursery.com/ events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.

SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP Have a topic, book, or article you wish to discuss with interested and interesting people? Join this weekly meeting to discuss it, or simply contribute your experiences and knowledge. Contact Mark Plater for instructions on entering the Chapel area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon (805) 528-7111. Coalesce Garden Chapel, 845 Main St., Morro Bay. STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi gong offers great anti-aging benefits, providing a comprehensive system for improving physical, mental and emotional health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin Wallace. Call first. Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. (805) 709-2227. Hardie Park, Ash Ave. and B St., Cayucos. Qi gong offers great anti-aging benefits, providing a comprehensive system for improving physical and mental health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin Wallace. Call first for info and exact location. Fridays, 9-10 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227.

inner-workings.com. Los Osos, Townwide, Los Osos. STRETCH, BREATHE, AND BALANCE Ideal for seniors, and open to everyone. Instructor Randal Bodlak takes you through specific moves to promote mobility, internal strength, and stability. Mondays, 9-10 a.m. $10 per session. (805) 528-4880. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos. TAI CHI AND QI GONG: ZEN IN MOTION Small group classes with 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the Year. Call for time and days. Learn the Shaolin Water Style and 5 Animals Qi Gong. Beginners welcomed. Mondays, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call for price details. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts. com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay. TAI CHI BASICS Visit site for more details on this ongoing, weekly Tai Chi program. Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $10-$12. (805) 772-7486. fitnessworksmb.com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

WEEKLY QIGONG PRACTICE AT FITNESSWORKS MORRO BAY Calm your mind and nourish your joints with a weekly Qigong practice led by Mike Raynor of Tai Chi Rejuvenation. The practice is rooted in Qigong fundamentals, and standing/moving meditations. Forms include: Eight Brocades, Five Elements, Shibashi 18, and Tai chi 24. Saturdays, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Members free; non-members $8-$10. (805) 772-7466. fitnessworksmb.com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay. WHIMSICAL WINTER WONDERLAND Step into the Whimsical Winter Wonderland at Cambria Nursery—where the magic of the season comes to life through light, design, and imagination. Through Jan. 15, 2026 (805) 927-4747. cambrianursery.com/events/. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria. YOGA PLUS A hybrid of yoga and “stretching” techniques that yield a body that moves and feels amazing. Mondays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $10 per session. (415) 516-5214. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos. ZEN IN MOTION Learn the Shaolin Water Style and other deep breathing and moving meditation techniques with the 2019 Taijiquan Instructor of the Year. Beginners Welcome.Instructor Certification Courses available. Mondays, Wednesdays Call for details. (805) 7017397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLE Y/LOS ALAMOS

BAR TAKEOVER THURSDAYS Join us Thursdays to meet and chat with the winemaker of the flight we’re featuring that week. Thursdays, 4-7:30 p.m. $15-$30. (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,

FOOD & DRINK continued page 16

www.santamariasun.com • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • Sun • 15

Hot Stuff

DECEMBER 25, 2025 - JANUARY 4, 2026 PHOTO COURTESY OF MY805TIX

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16 • Sun • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

HOOTIN’ HORNS

Our area’s beloved all-horn band Brass Mash will perform on the first Friday of the new year, Jan. 2, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Liquid Gravity Brewing Company in San Luis Obispo. Let loose and dance with the crowd to an eclectic mix of classic rock and well-known pop songs. General admission tickets are $26.05 and $10 for students. Head to my805tix.com for tickets and more details. —A.S.

FOOD & DRINK from page 15 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/. TAP THURSDAY Head to Tap Thursdays at the Wine Stone Inn every week, featuring $5 draft beers and $5 Cava’s. Thursdays, 3-9 p.m. through April 16 Free. (805) 3323532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/. THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt. WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/ orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt. WINE BINGO WEDNESDAYS Join Wine Bingo Wednesday at the Wine Stone Inn –– the original bingo night in Old Orcutt. The event will occur weekly with the purchase of an adult beverage. Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. through April 29 (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/. LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages.

Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc. SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

CHRISTMAS DINNER AT SEAVENTURE RESTAURANT Indulge in our special three-course Holiday Prix Fixe Menu. No cooking or cleanup is required, only reservations. Large groups are welcome! Dec. 25, 1-7 p.m. (805) 773-3463. seaventure.com/event/christmas-dinner/. SeaVenture Restaurant, 100 Oceanview Ave., Pismo Beach. CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER AT SEAVENTURE RESTAURANT Enjoy a beautiful dinner with ocean views while you wait for Santa to arrive! Reservations are highly recommended. Large groups are welcome. Dec. 24, 4-9 p.m. (805) 7733463. seaventure.com/event/christmasdinner/. SeaVenture Restaurant, 100 Oceanview Ave., Pismo Beach. NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER AT MARISOL Savor the final hours of 2025 with a curated three-course menu! Call the number provided to make reservations. Dec. 31, 4-9 p.m. $95-$110. (805) 5563316. cliffshotelandspa.com/event/ new-years-eve-dinner-at-marisol-2/. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa, 2757 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach. NEW YEARS EVE DINNER & CELEBRATION AT SEAVENTURE Welcome in 2026 with oceanfront elegance at SeaVenture Restaurant! Countdown to a “New York Midnight” and a champagne toast at 9 p.m. Dec. 31, 5-10 p.m. $75-$89. (805) 773-3463. seaventure. com/event/new-years-eve-dinnercelebration/#. SeaVenture Restaurant, 100 Oceanview Ave., Pismo Beach. TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free to play. (805) 295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach. SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. Downtown SLO, Multiple locations, San Luis Obispo. PIÑATAS ON THE PATIO What is more festive than a piñata? Join for some brunch drinks and a couple of good hits to a piñata (or two). Good times and goofy prices promised. Turns will be determined on a first come, first served basis. First Sunday of every month Free. SLO Public Market, South Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo.

SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo. 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. (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. 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 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) 623-5129, 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. (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

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.

MUSIC continued page 17

Hot Stuff

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALICE CAHILL

WE LC OME TO T HE S O U N D T R A C K OF F REEDOM L A SEPTIMA BANDA F R I D AY, J A N U A R Y 16 / 8 P M T I C K E T S S TA R T AT $39

HANK AZARIA AND THE EZ STREET BAND

WINGBORNE WONDER

Throughout Morro Bay’s Gallery at Marina Square, three featured exhibits will be on display in the Lower Gallery, Upper Gallery, and Craft Atelier Space from Thursday, Jan. 1, until Thursday, Jan. 29. A group photography and painting show, both titled Wingborne, will feature birds and wild habitats along the Central Coast in celebration of Morro Bay’s Bird Festival month in January. The gallery is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Get a detailed artist list and additional details at galleryatmarinasquare.com. —A.S.

F R I D AY, J A N U A R Y 30 / 8 P M T I C K E T S S TA R T AT $20

WA R F R I D AY, F E B R U A R Y 6 / 8 P M T I C K E T S S TA R T AT $50

MUSIC from page 16

MARCO FLORES Y L A #1 B A N D A J E R E Z A N D B A N D A Z E TA

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

KARAOKE AT COLD COAST BREWING CO. Pick out a song, bring your friends, and get ready to perform. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 819-0723, 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.

F R I D AY, F E B R U A R Y 1 3 / 8 P M T I C K E T S S TA R T AT $60

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNT Y

CLARK CENTER PRESENTS: THE HIT MEN OF COUNTRY Get ready for a boot-stomping, heartstring-tugging night of pure country gold. The Hit Men of Country brings together five of Nashville’s finest musicians. Jan. 3, 2-4 p.m. $45-$59, Platinum $65; Senior Discounts. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. EASTON EVERETT Easton Everett is a singer-songwriter who blends indie folk, neo-folk, and world beat with intricate fingerstyle guitar. Hear him live at Blacklake Golf Course. Dec. 30, 1-4 p.m. Blacklake Golf Course, 1490 Golf Course Lane, 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 after-hours 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.

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FURNITURE

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SAN LUIS OBISPO

BRASS MASH FIRST FRIDAY IN JANUARY 2026 Don’t miss this first Friday of the new year with this all-horn band. Join the festivities at Liquid Gravity and immerse yourself in the eclectic mix of classic rock and pop songs. Jan. 2, 6-10 p.m. $26.05. my805tix.com. Liquid Gravity, 675 Clarion Court, San Luis Obispo. MOLLY RINGWALD PROJECT NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY AT LIBERTINE Get ready for a night packed with high-energy hits and non-stop dancing as we countdown to midnight. Tickets include champagne toast at midnight, charcuterie, and small appetizers. Dec. 31, 8 p.m. $66.12. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337. m

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Arts

AUTHORS PHOTOS COURTESY OF GARY ROBINSON

ARTS BRIEFS The Cypress Gallery displays its Simple Pleasures

Re-learning the history

To buy Gary Robinson’s books, visit the gift shop at the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center (3500 Numancia St.) or visit amazon.com. Check his website, imaginative-content.com, for updates on upcoming projects.

COURTESY IMAGE BY CHRIS JESZECK

To kick off 2026, artists of the Cypress Gallery are putting together a tribute to winter’s cozy and serene delights. Simple Pleasures will be up from Jan. 2 to 25. “As January brings some of the darkest and coldest days of the year, take a moment to find comfort in the simple pleasures that make life worth living and home feel like home,” the gallery announced in press materials. Artists explore themes like gardens, flowers, birds, and animals. The gallery features local painters and artisans who display sculptures, jewelry, cards, and more. “This show celebrates pleasures that are achievable and within reach and pays tribute to the steady champions we turn to when the world feels heavy,” according to the gallery. The Simple Pleasures reception will be held at the gallery on Jan. 10 from noon to 2 p.m. Admission is free at the Cypress Gallery, located at 119 E. Cypress Ave. in Lompoc. It’s open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information about the gallery, visit lompocart.org and follow along on Instagram @cypressgallerylompoc.

Art Spot on Wheels hosts mixed media classes for kids

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTI BELLE

The Solvang studio Art Spot on Wheels is hosting two sixweek-long art camps for kids starting in January. For ages 7 to 12, the fun begins on Jan. 12. Each week, instructors teach a new medium and allow students to explore their own creativity. The class will meet on Mondays from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and is capped at 12 students. “Participants will learn the joys of drawing, painting with watercolor and acrylic paint, printmaking, mixed media art, and more,” according to the studio’s website. Classes for younger students, ages 4 to 6, begin on Jan. 14. Kids will be dropped off for a 45-minute class on Wednesdays starting at 4 p.m. The class is all about teaching kids process art, “in which the emphasis is on the process of creating and not just the final product,” according to the website. Registration for both classes is available online at artspotonwheels.com. Payment, including a $50 deposit, is due at the time of enrollment, and there are payment plans available. Email info@artspotonwheels.com for more information. The studio is located at 320 Alisal Road, suite 306B, in Solvang. m Staff Writer Madison White compiles Arts Briefs. Send information to mwhite@santamariasun.com.

PEN TO PAPER: Santa Ynez’s Gary Robinson has written 20 books throughout his career spent working alongside Native American communities. He puts on occasional book signing events, like this one a few years ago at The Book Loft in Solvang.

Busting stereotypes After a long career championing Native American history, an author and filmmaker tackles a new subject

BY MADISON WHITE

Learning and teaching about Indigenous communities also taught Robinson about adjacent ary Robinson has worked closely with Native environmental concerns, a topic he’s taken on American tribes for 45 years, but his cultural heritage wasn’t a big part of his upbringing. He in his latest graphic novel set to release on Earth was a city boy from Texas and doesn’t remember his Day in 2026. The Rise of Plasti Kong is about a lab experiment gone awry, creating a plastic monster parents taking interest in their Native culture. and an army of microplastics. There’ll also be “I had a couple of generations of people who an accompanying video game, which is under ran from it because in the late 1800s [and] early development in India. 1900s that was lumped in with all the other brown “The underlying theme is plastic pollution is a and Black people that were not considered firstmonster that we have to deal with,” he explained. class citizens,” the author, film director, and film The Rise of Plasti Kong and his next children’s producer told the Sun. “So, anybody that was of Native blood who could get away with just ignoring book, Welcome to Make-Believe Land, are the first works under his new company, Imaginative it and denying it did.” Content. Robinson started the company earlier this The same thing was happening in California, he year, setting out to encompass multicultural and went on, where people were killed for being Native environmental topics in his future projects. American. Welcome to Make-Believe Land, a book “It’s not an uncommon history,” Robinson said. Robinson wrote with his daughter, is scheduled for In college, Robinson’s curiosity toward his publication next year. The story is meant to spark Choctaw and Cherokee heritage sprouted. the imaginations of young readers. Researching Native history became his central With 20 books to his name, the author likes passion and the core of his work. writing for a young audience because he wants to “I wanted my skills and career to be dedicated instill a better understanding of who Native people to overcoming stereotypes and being about true are, rather than allowing misconceptions and stories and real people,” Robinson said. stereotypes to persist. For the past 23 years, Robinson has lived in Santa Ynez on the Chumash reservation with his wife. Though he wasn’t surrounded by Native culture when he was young, he was immersed in the media landscape of the era. Robinson remembers analyzing lots of movies as a kid (noting the stereotypical portrayals of Natives) and visiting the radio station on the weekend, where his dad worked. Those memories remained in the back of his mind, coming to the forefront periodically as he navigated a career CHILDLIKE WONDER: In 2026 Gary Robinson plans to publish a children’s in media, which is book he co-authored with his daughter called Welcome to Make-Believe Land. ongoing.

18 • Sun • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • www.santamariasun.com

“Parents carried those misunderstandings with them and would pass them down,” he said. “You got to chip away at the younger generations to grow up with a better understanding. So, it’s a slow, kind of a tedious process, but that’s the only way it can happen.” Throughout his career, he’s been involved with directing and producing 50 films of various lengths about Indigenous experiences. Topics included the emotional trauma of war and transportation issues in tribal communities. Five were documentaries that appeared on the Public Broadcasting Service and the Turner Network. It’s hard for him to put the joy of filmmaking into words. Seeing something from his mind come to fruition through the camera lens and in the editing bay is creatively satisfying, especially when it comes to sharing what history lessons hid for so long. “Often you are striking new ground, covering a unique path to telling a story that hadn’t been told on a very large basis,” he said. A turning point came in 2008 when he used documentary research to publish a book, From Warriors to Soldiers. After that, he tapered away from producing and focused more on written media. Perhaps what he’s most proud of is writing the Lands of our Ancestors stories, published between 2016 and 2018. The three-part historical fiction series follows three generations of a Chumash family throughout California history from the mission era up to the early years of statehood. He adapted the material to be used in fourth grade history lessons about Native Americans, which local teachers used in their classrooms for about five years up until recently. “Of all the things that I’ve done, I’m very proud of that,” Robinson said. “It’s very unique. Nothing else ever was written and published like it.” The series was a huge undertaking, blending the educational requirements and history from Chumash elders, whom he’d gotten to know through a press relations job with the tribe. Like all his projects, it may never have seen the light of day without the discovery of his own culture, which he “couldn’t do anything but embrace.” m Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@ santamariasun.com.

A SEASONED CHARACTER: Johnny Geronimo—a protagonist developed by Gary Robinson featured in this year’s Art of Darkness—uses his skills as a private investigator to solve the murders of Native artists in New Mexico. Robinson also directed and wrote a short film about Johnny Geronimo in 2014.

www.santamariasun.com • December 25, 2025 - January 1, 2026 • Sun • 19

Film

SUN SCREEN

Red herrings galore

COURTESY PHOTO BY DANIEL MCFADDEN/LIONSGATE

a constant apology written on his face as Nina seemingly becomes more and more disconnected from reality. I’m curious to know how propulsive a read this book is. It has a The Girl on the Train vibe, but instead of stripping away the layers of mystery over time, The Housemaid decided to offer it up in this narrative voiceover. I can’t say that it works with the same sort of satisfaction. The performances here are good, but if you’re looking for a film that rivals Glen: This is a story that wants to mislead, the twists and turns of Gone Girl or The Gift, this to make you think one thing only to pull a one may leave you disappointed. switcheroo. It wants your alliances toward Glen: Like any mystery, this one’s hard to talk characters to shift and falter, and most about without giving in to spoilers. It kept me importantly, it wants you to understand the guessing to a point, but I was more entertained whole sordid story, which leads to two by the performances than the story. rather long voiceover expositional I especially liked Elizabeth Perkins THE HOUSEMAID backstories about how the characters as Andrew’s cold-as-ice mother, What’s it rated? R ended up where they are. Sometimes Mrs. Winchester, with her shocking What’s it worth, Anna? narration works, and sometimes it white hair and stain of bright red Stream it feels clumsy and lazy like this film. lipstick across her pale face. She’s What’s it worth, Glen? Sure, there are some entertaining almost a cartoon villain. Millie Stream it moments, thanks in large part to begins to understand what’s going Where’s it showing? Seyfried’s mercurial and unhinged on with Nina through gossip, once Regal Edwards RPX performance, but it always feels like when another nanny waiting for her Santa Maria, charge at ballet class reveals some of its main goal is to mislead its viewers Regal Edwards the Winchesters’ secrets, and again rather than to create a plausible world Arroyo Grande when a trio of harpy PTA moms where bad things happen. over at Nina’s house for tea diss Nina Anna: Sweeney’s Millie must be behind her back when she has to take a call. Nina utterly desperate, because after one day with and Andrew’s daughter, Cece (Indiana Elle), is Nina, it’s clear she’s struggling with mental also strange with an inexplicable character arc. stability on an epic level. She’s either gaslighting Maybe this all worked on the page, but on-screen, her new employee or is wholly unhinged. Her it doesn’t satisfyingly coalesce. husband, Andrew, seems to be her caretaker, aul Feig (Bridesmaids, A Simple Favor) directs this psychological thriller by screenwriter Rebecca Sonnenshine based on Freida McFadden’s 2022 novel of the same name about Millie Calloway (Sydney Sweeney), a troubled woman with a sketchy past who goes to work for a Nina (Amanda Seyfried) and Andrew Winchester (Brandon Sklenar), whose affluent household has dark secrets of its own. (131 min.)

SECRETS AND LIES: Millie (Sydney Sweeney) becomes a live-in maid to Nina (Amanda Seyfried) and her family, who aren’t who they first seem, in The Housemaid, playing in local theaters.

Anna: Millie’s past is alluded to throughout, but again we must wait for the narration to reveal more than just half-truths. We know she needs to keep her job and that there are real stakes to losing it. However, even that reveal feels a bit canned. In the end, we do know who it is we should have been rooting for the entire time, but we spend a lot of time getting there, and while the payoff should come with a real sense of justice, it didn’t particularly. The enjoyment here is all in

the performances; both Seyfried and Perkins in particular stand out. There’s also the mysterious groundskeeper, Enzo (Michele Morrone), who’s brought into the story, but it really isn’t clear why. I feel this one was probably a bit more titillating in book form. The film just didn’t quite do it for me. m New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

COURTESY PHOTO BY SARAH ENTICKNAP/PEACOCK

ALL HER FAULT

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2025 Where’s it showing? Peacock Marissa’s (Sarah Snook) world turns into a nightmare when she shows up at the address provided by fellow mom, Jenny (Dakota Fanning), to pick up her young son, Milo (Duke McCloud), from a first-time play date. However, the nice older woman at the door (Linda Cropper) has no idea what Marissa is talking about, and Jenny is adamant she didn’t arrange a playdate at all. Everything was done via text, and soon Marissa and her husband, Peter (Jake Lacy), come to the earth-shattering revelation that their soon to be 5-year-old child has been kidnapped, and they’re hours behind whoever took him. What follows is a miniseries detailing their EVERY PARENT’S NIGHTMARE: When her son discovery of who Milo’s kidnapper is and what the goes missing, Marissa (Sarah Snook, center), finds her young woman’s motivations are. Marissa is falling personal life unraveling, in the TV miniseries, All Her apart, and Peter seems to be involved in some shady Fault, streaming on Peacock. business that may or may not have something to do with the crime. series is sure to scratch the itch of crime drama fans. I was Tense and truly surprising, this miniseries brings guessing until the end. (eight 46- to 56-min. us into both the desperate parents’ world and the kidnapper’s episodes) world, motivations, and her own desperate attempt to make —Anna Milo hers. Meanwhile, Peter’s dark secret also comes out. This

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What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2025 Where’s it showing? Apple TV+ Based on Mick Herron’s novel of the same name, this British TV series follows wily and resourceful private detective Zoë Boehm (Emma Thompson) as she unravels a government conspiracy and searches for a missing child. The case centers on Sarah Trafford (Ruth Wilson), whose neighborhood is rocked by an explosion that kills her friend Maddie Singleton, whose 5-year-old daughter, Dinah (Ivy Quoi), is whisked away in what appears to be a kidnapping. Things get complicated quickly as we learn BRAINS OVER BRAWN: Private detective Zoë of a Ministry of Defense covert operation and Boehm (Emma Thompson, left) helps Sarah Trafford meet shady supervisor, C (Darren Boyd), and his (Ruth Wilson) expose a government conspiracy, in underlings such as Hamza Malik (Adeel Akhtar), the TV miniseries Down Cemetery Road, streaming on Amos Crane (Fehinti Balogun), and his rogue agent Apple TV+. brother Rufus Crane (Ken Nwosu). Downey (Nathan Stewart-Jarrett), a former soldier who’s also Dinah’s and whose characters are both vulnerable and tenacious. Mick uncle, is also trying to locate her. Herron has written four books in his Zoë Boehm series, and It’s a gripping and gritty tale with a lot of complicated characters operating under various motivations, this show has already been renewed for another season. I’ll be watching. (eight 50- to 54-min. episodes) m but at its center are two strong female leads in —Glen Thompson and Wilson, who work well together

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Eats

FOOD COURTESY PHOTOS BY MELISSA BAGLEY

Sans gluten

To purchase La Dolce Vita goods online, visit dolcevita. market. The bakery delivers and has pickup locations at several businesses between Orcutt and Pismo Beach. Follow along on Instagram @la.dolcevita.market for details about the bakery’s pop-up events.

CAREFUL CHEMISTRY: Melissa Bagley bakes her chocolate cake using brown rice and almond flours, yogurt, eggs, brown sugar, olive oil, and cocoa powder. The frosting is a blend of butter, chocolate, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.

ZESTY: One of La Dolce Vita’s best-selling items is lemon pound cake, which takes multiple forms including cupcakes, slices, loaves, and mini cakes. The recipe includes olive oil and yogurt for extra moisture.

Baking up a storm An Orcutt baker is on a mission to deliver top-tier goods, minus the gluten

BY MADISON WHITE

elissa Bagley tries not to start her workdays before 6 a.m. If everything goes to plan, nine hours later she’ll be heading out the door to deliver dozens of freshly baked cookies, decadent cakes, and soft loaves of bread that customers ordered from her business, La Dolce Vita. During her childhood, baking was a big part of Bagley’s home, where she saw her mom and other family members making wholesome goods. Some of her favorite childhood memories are walking in the door after school to the smell of bread in the oven.

“There’s no junk in anything that I make,” Bagley told the Sun. “It’s just the way I grew up eating baked goods. … My mom baked a lot, so I got to learn what good home-baked goods tasted like, and she spoiled me for life.” One thing changed: Bagley hasn’t eaten gluten for more than a decade. She launched La Dolce Vita in 2022, a couple of years after moving to Orcutt and noticing a lack of gluten-free options. “I was having a hard time finding things, and I started baking more at that point because I couldn’t buy anything,” she said. “I was feeding it to gluten-free people and ‘regular’ people,

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and people were really loving it.” In her three years of business, Bagley has built up a list of regulars, or her “freezer queens” as she calls them. They’re the customers who order everything all at once to stock up their freezers. Some have been patrons since the beginning, when La Dolce Vita set up at the Orcutt farmers market. Occasionally Bagley still sets up a booth at pop-up events, but most of her sales stem from her website. Customers pick up their orders at a few designated businesses that Bagley partners with between Orcutt and Pismo Beach. Especially during the holiday season, customers place big orders for parties and family gatherings. “I hit ‘big’ pretty quickly because I have one oven I’m working with,” Bagley said.

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THE SWEET LIFE: Owner Melissa Bagley started her gluten-free bakery business, La Dolce Vita, in 2022. She sells crackers, breads, cookies, cakes, and more.

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Eats EATS from page 21

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The baker remembered one recent order to the tune of one mini chocolate cake, three dozen biscuits, mini apple cobblers, cinnamon rolls, one lemon pound cake, chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies, two kinds of crackers, and one loaf of bread. “An order like that, that’s a very long day in the kitchen,” she said. When scheduling her baking time, her golden rule is to plan around any bread in the order. Gluten-free loaves require long bake times, usually tying up her oven for an hour. For example, her best-selling buckwheat loaf takes three and a half hours from start to finish, with two one-hour rises in the middle. In between rises and baking, Bagley prepares other doughs. It’s worth the effort though, because bread READY TO SLICE: Buckwheat loaves are the most is one of her personal favorites. popular type of bread that Melissa Bagley bakes. For some, gluten-free items are an option. She also sells oat and honey loaves, French loaves, But for others, they’re more like a necessity. ciabatta rolls, and dinner rolls. One customer told Bagley she’d starve without La Dolce Vita. Bagley’s products are completely gluten free. like lemon pound cake and buckwheat bread, Bagley She goes above and beyond the county health code tries to bring new items to the menu every year. to ensure everything is sanitized and that there’s Sourdough has been a years’ long quest, and right no chance of cross contamination. Her cleaning now, she’s testing out a new starter. It probably won’t process can take up to an hour. have the traditional tang from glutenous sourdough There’s never any gluten flour in her pantry. bread, but Bagley said she’s working on it. Instead, she sources eight different types of flour, Above all, her goal is to make delicious goods— like almond and white rice flours, from a handful and not just by gluten-free standards. She wants to of grocery stores. For the ingredients she can’t find feed everybody and make them all feel included. locally, she resorts to buying online. “If you’re gluten free, don’t give up hope. There is “I love that I’m able to give them back the baked yummy stuff out there,” Bagley said. “You can have goods that they miss so much, and they can feel that delicious flavor again, and you can probably safe eating,” she said about customers with gluten serve it to your family and they’ll never know the intolerances and celiac disease. “Being able to difference.” m have people feel safe and enjoy what they’re eating, there’s just nothing like it. It’s amazing.” Staff Writer Madison White loves bread, too. Reach While there are some staples in her recipe book, her at mwhite@santamariasun.com.

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