Sun, February 26, 2026

air balloon proposals [5], limos and trolleys for the big day [6], natural floral arrangements [8], and officiants [10] BY SUN STAFF

Make Tomorrow’s Decisions

What is a wedding, really, other than a giant celebration—a party from beginning to end, from the engagement through the goodbye song at the end of the big night. In our annual Weddings issue, we’re including things that can help you put that party together. Hot air balloons in which to pop the question and tie the knot, transportation options beyond the quintessential stretch limo, a florist with an eye for natural designs, and the officiants that can bring two people together in matrimony. Read them all this week [5]

Also, find stories about Santa Maria’s vote on an ad hoc committee to discuss immigration [3]; a photographer whose practice is all about special moments [23]; and Orcutt Bakery’s focus on cakes that deliver for special days [26]

• On Feb. 17, U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-California) visited Guadalupe, where he toured the Guadalupe Senior Center and Guadalupe Union School District’s Early Learning Center Both facilities are undergoing upgrades with federal dollars that Schiff, U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California), and U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) jointly helped secure, according to Schiff’s office. “I am very proud to have helped bring back federal funding to support an early childhood education center and to update the senior center in Guadalupe,” Schiff said in a statement. For the Early Learning Center, Schiff helped secure $1.9 million in federal funding to support the construction of an outdoor play area. He also helped secure $275,000 in congressionally directed spending to enhance Guadalupe’s ability to maintain its Senior Center as “a vibrant hub for the community’s senior citizens,” according to Schiff’s office. “I want every child to get a great start in life, and every senior to have a nice place to gather and enjoy a meal together,” Schiff stated. During his tours of both project sites, Schiff heard from Guadalupe community leaders and stakeholders about how the federal investments are making a difference locally. “These projects would not be possible without the support and efforts of my colleagues, Sen. Padilla and Congressman Carbajal, as well as great local leaders,” Schiff stated, “and I’m grateful for their partnership in fighting to bring these federal investments to the Central Coast.”

• Shortly after Yosemite National Park announced that reservations won’t be needed to visit the park this summer, U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) described the decision as diminishing “the visitor experience for Californians and tourists alike,” in a Feb. 19 statement. “Yosemite’s reservation system has proven effective at preventing overcrowding, especially during peak season, while increasing visitations to this natural treasure,” Padilla stated. “With our national park system already strained by Donald Trump’s funding and staffing cuts, this decision will limit outdoor recreation opportunities, degrade the park’s natural resources, and strain local businesses that rely on a steady stream of park visitors.”

•U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) recently completed his Central Coast Affordability Tour, which brought him to visit colleges, child care providers, and small businesses across Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties. “I heard firsthand that the economy is simply not working for everyone,” stated Carbajal, whose recent site visits included City Farm SLO where he sought feedback from community members impacted by federal SNAP cuts and tariffs. Other spots on his tour included Cuesta College where Carbajal discussed the impact of the cost-of-living crisis with students, and Los Agaves Restaurant in Santa Barbara, to speak with the eatery’s owners about how tariffs and other federal policy changes have impacted their business. “With the rising cost of housing, groceries, health insurance, and other necessities, families are in a crisis right now. The Trump administration has done nothing to fix this. In fact, their policies have made the affordability crisis worse,” Carbajal said in a Feb. 23 statement. “The tariffs are one of the broadest tax increases on families and businesses in American history.” As vice chair for outreach for the New Democrat Coalition, Carbajal co-led the creation of the Affordability Agenda with an aim to lower everyday costs related to groceries, household essentials, health care, housing, and energy. m

Santa Maria agendizes hearing to discuss forming immigration ad hoc committee

For local high school student Lorena Martinez, real-time events have shown that the Santa Maria City Council’s pace in deciding whether to form an immigration ad hoc committee is too slow.

“Real families are being torn apart. Children are living with fear and uncertainty. Parents are afraid to go to work. This is happening here in our own community, while this city slacks off,” Martinez said during public comment at the council’s Feb. 17 meeting. “In October, this council said you would vote on the immigration ad hoc committee. … There has been no action taken, and this is something that can no longer be delayed.”

Martinez—who said her uncle’s sudden deportation left her family shocked and devastated—was among a dozen attendees who spoke about the ad hoc committee, a discussion first requested by Councilmember Gloria Soto in August 2025 and tabled in October.

Most public commenters also condemned statements heard from the dais during the council’s previous meeting on Feb. 3.

After more than a handful of speakers expressed being offended by Mayor Alice Patino’s comment about “millions” of unvetted immigrants crossing the border during the Biden administration, Patino interjected during one speaker’s time at the podium.

“I have never, ever, ever characterized the immigrants as being criminals. My grandparents would be very upset with me if they knew that,” Patino said. “My grandparents would be very upset if they knew I’d called them criminals. I have never said that.”

Later during council member reports, just before Patino was about to adjourn the meeting, Councilmember Soto asked if council could revisit the ad hoc committee topic. The meeting then lasted for an additional 20 minutes.

“Madam Mayor, before you adjourn the meeting, … we had talked about that item coming back,” Soto said. “However, because it was tabled, based on an email [from staff] that I received, it looks like in order for that to be re-agendized, it either needs to be agendized by you, who has authority to put things on the agenda, Madam Mayor, or it needs to come forward through a motion by a council member, then a second, and then a majority vote.

“So, if you’re not going to agendize that, Madam Mayor,” Soto continued, “I would like to make a

motion to bring that item back to a future City Council agenda, preferably in March.”

Councilmember Maribel Aguilera seconded Soto’s motion, which passed 5-0.

“I think it’s going to be an interesting conversation,” Councilmember Carlos Escobedo said after the vote, “and I’m telling you guys, you might not hear something that you like, or might not like, but I’m glad that finally, … it’s time to make decisions.

“We’ve been putting aside so many decisions— not just about this item, but all sorts of items,” Escobedo continued. “I’ve personally had enough. We need to get things done, and move on, and I’m not just talking about immigration.”

—Caleb Wiseblood

Lompoc to rebuild stage at Ryon Park

By the end of the year, Lompoc residents are scheduled to have a new stage at Ryon Park for community gatherings and performances.

City Council members unanimously approved the project at the Feb. 17 meeting. The Ryon Park stage has deteriorated below accessibility standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act, according to the staff report. After reconstruction, the stage will be fully compliant and accessible for performers and guests.

“This project’s going to be a total replacement of the old stage,” Community Development Director Mario Guerrero Jr. told the council. “The ultimate goal is to bring in more events to Ryon Park, so we’re real excited about that.”

Lompoc aims to finalize the request for proposal at a City Council meeting in May or June. The 12-week construction period is set to begin after June’s Flower Festival and the Fourth of July celebration, Guerrero explained. The city dedicated $525,000 to the project from Community Development Block Grant funds.

At the meeting, Councilmember Victor Vega urged Guerrero to consider installing a roof for protection against rain and sun.

“If there is potential funding [from] a different source down the road, then we can always add a canopy over, but at this time there wasn’t enough money,” Guerrero responded.

On top of the city’s funds, the Lompoc Rotary Club made a one-time $50,000 donation to the project, which will be officially called the Lompoc Rotary Centennial Stage to honor the organization’s 100 years of service. The windbreak walls bordering the back of the stage will be decorated with images representing the city and the Rotary.

“We kind of wanted to capture the flowers, giving recognition to the Rotary Club,” Guerrero said. “And also put a little space theme.”

Rob Klug, the 2024-25 Rotary Club president, thanked the council members for their collaboration.

“Not many organizations can say they’ve been serving this community for 100 years, so it was a great honor to be able to do that,” Klug said. “We’d like to commemorate that with the stage project in the prime location of our community at Ryon Park.”

The 22-acre Ryon Park is Lompoc’s oldest, dating back to 1910 when Mary Ryon donated the original section, according to the city’s website. A venue for events like the Books and Bubbles and movie nights, Ryon Park also offers tennis courts, picnic areas, softball and baseball fields, and a playground. Visit the park at 800 W. Ocean Ave. —Madison White

Buellton developer preps to demolish Parks Plaza theater

Idle and shuttered since 2020, Buellton’s former movie theater—Parks Plaza on McMurray Road—will be demolished to make way for a new three-story Cottage Health medical office thanks to a recent Planning Commission vote.

The 20-day period for the public to formally appeal the commission’s decision to the City Council kicked off on Feb. 19. At the same project site, the commission approved a final development plan in 2023 for a new In-N-Out drive-through, which the council overturned while reviewing an appeal of that decision.

The council’s primary concerns at that time with bringing an In-N-Out to McMurray Road were related to increased traffic congestion, an issue current city staff doesn’t expect to carry over with the Cottage Health proposal.

“The project is consistent with the city’s general plan circulation policies and would not create any significant transportation impacts,” Buellton Associate Planner Cara Miralles told the Planning Commission during its Feb. 19 meeting.

Based on the results of a traffic study, staff predicts that the most impact the proposed Cottage Health facility will have on city traffic levels will occur daily between 4 and 6 p.m., specifically on a left-turn lane of Highway 246, near a southbound onramp for Highway 101.

“That one lane would very infrequently extend beyond the lane capacity by just one vehicle,” Miralles explained, “and this would only be expected to happen 5 percent of the time, in the p.m. peak hour, which is 4 to 6 p.m.”

During the hearing, Planning Commissioner Shannon Reese asked staff about one of the medical office proposal’s conditions of approval that was directly left over from the halted In-N-Out project.

“I saw the condition, … for tribal consultation. Did they request consultation this time?” asked Reese, who was referring to protocols in the project’s conditional use permit regarding the role of a Santa Ynez Band of Chumash indians tribal monitor.

The condition, identical to a previous condition of approval for the In-N-Out development, states that a representative of the tribe will have access to monitor any “ground disturbing construction activities associated with the project, including but not limited to demolition,” according to the staff report.

If any suspected cultural resources are discovered by any person during construction activities, the tribal monitor would be immediately notified, and an archaeological

advisor would determine if work should stop within 50 feet of the discovery.

Reese asked if staff had recent communications with the tribe about the Cottage Health project.

“We did send an informal email to the tribe. They have not responded as of yet,” Miralles said. “But we’ve applied the same conditions

of approval on the previous In-N-Out project because it is the same site. So, we’re anticipating that they would have the same conditions.”

With a 3-0 vote (Planning Commissioners Brian Campbell and Daniel Contreras were absent), the Planning Commission approved the Cottage Health project’s final development plan and conditional use permit. m

—Caleb

Take flight

Learn more about Sky’s The Limit Ballooning Adventures in Santa Ynez at skysthelimitballooning.com.

For details on Paso Robles’ Balloons over Paso, visit balloonsoverpaso.com. For a hot air balloon proposal or wedding, use the code, SLOWEDDING, until Jan. 1, 2027, for a 10 percent discount.

Rare air

Get hitched in the sky with Central Coast hot air balloon adventures

BY BULBUL RAJAGOPAL

For a couple thousand dollars, you can climb into a hot air balloon with your partner, soar in the Central Coast skies, and return to land united in holy or legal matrimony.

Santa Ynez’s Sky’s The Limit Ballooning Adventures founder James Lawson has seen it all over his 30 years manning both business and balloon.

“It’s always been a thing,” he said. “We’ve gone as big as allowing ministers to bring doves on balloons.”

Lawson has officiated 50 weddings in hot air balloons over 35 years. Most people who get married on one of his hot air balloons are eloping, and they’ve come from across California— including SLO, the LA area, the Central Valley, and Silicon Valley—and from around the world, including China, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, England, India, and the United Kingdom. Lately, residents from Ventura to Paso Robles have been flying more frequently.

“The one thing about ballooning is it’s weather permitting,” Lawson said. “Depending on what the weather is, people need to have a backup plan or be open to rescheduling. Generally, people who are eloping have flexible schedules.”

Lawson added that February, March, and April are the windiest months for hot air balloon flying, but as of Jan. 30, Sky’s The Limit had flown almost every day in 2026 thanks to the beginning of the year being “unusually warm.” In January alone, two couples got married in the company’s hot air balloons.

Proposals, elopements, and wedding anniversary celebrations can happen in one of Sky’s The Limit’s 12 hot air balloons, depending on the number of guests who are up for it. They meet up at Los Olivos Grocery before following the Sky’s The Limit team to a secondary location for balloon liftoff.

Early morning flights for private groups as small as one to five people and as large as 12 to 14 people cost between $2,000 to $4,500.

“Two years ago, we had a pretty large wedding of 14 people dressed up like cowboys,” Lawson said.

Weddings Issue

For couples not fussy about strangers joining their celebrations, the same flight can be enjoyed as a more affordable shared group experience— costing each passenger $250.

Both groups will receive in-flight mimosas and non-alcoholic drinks, along with a complimentary banner for special occasions.

The two-hour experience, with one hour of flying, takes the party over Santa Ynez Valley vineyards while they take in sun-soaked views of the San Rafael mountain range.

“Keep your eyes peeled as you try to spot wild boar, foxes, deer, and more,” Sky’s The Limit’s website says. “As we float over wine country, your FAA certified pilot will show you the many ranches situated among the luscious valley, including Michael Jackson’s famous Neverland Ranch.”

The business also offers evening versions of the same hot-air balloon tour, with shared group flights costing $300 per person, and private group flights falling between $2,100 and $4,700.

“The younger generation doesn’t want to spend money on weddings,” Lawson said. “They’d rather spend it on a vacation or a home instead of spending $300,000.”

For SLO County residents wanting to tie the knot in air closer to home, Balloons Over Paso offers sunrise balloon flights at $325 per person, with an hour of flying over Paso Robles’ vineyards and countryside followed by complimentary wine and light bites.

Passengers meet at the Paso Robles Municipal Airport around 6:15 a.m. and the whole process—setting up the balloon, flying, and the celebratory sips and bites after—lasts three hours.

“We can hold up to four passengers in our basket, and typically when people choose to do a proposal, they either do it when we’re setting up our balloon just because it’s an incredible backdrop, or they propose while in the air with the vineyards in the background,” Balloons Over Paso founder and commercial pilot Phoebe Brown said.

Brown’s passion for hot air ballooning ignited in Australia after her landlord took her on her first flight. She followed that thrill to Montana where she flew a hot air balloon outside of Glacier National Park, finally landing in Paso Robles after loving the wine country.

Though an officiant who’s gotten several of her friends married on land, Brown is yet to oversee a wedding in her “eight-story-high” hot air balloon. But her business is all the rage when it comes to popping the question.

“One year, I had 18 proposals,” she said. “In Paso, we have anywhere from six to 10 proposals a year easily.”

A private flight for two costs roughly $1,380 and comes with the complimentary drinks and fare.

Balloons Over Paso also partners with ranchers and wineries around the area. Those relationships come in handy when it’s time to land the balloon on ranchland or near a vineyard. The company also has a partnership with Le Vigne Winery and serves its sparkling wine to celebrating couples.

An FAA commercially licensed pilot handles all flights, which Brown called a safe activity, especially with the flame propelling the balloon well above passengers’ heads.

“You can feel a little bit of heat; I would describe it as a really nice warmth,” she said. “It’s also such a peaceful experience. It’s incredibly quiet when you’re actually flying.”

Sometimes, however, entering a new chapter of life in the sky calls for some noise.

“The most memorable proposal was a woman who was so surprised, that when he proposed to her in the air, we could hear her yell so loud that from the ground, I was able to hear the excitement,” Brown said. “They were coming in to land but they were still hundreds of feet in the air.” m

Reach New Times Staff Writer Bulbul Rajagopal, from the Sun’s sister paper, at brajagopal@ newtimesslo.com.

Heels on wheels

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Cueing up tunes worth cutting a rug to was always integral to Solvang business owner James Hooshman’s transportation company, long before brides- and grooms-to-be became some of his most frequent clients.

“He’s been in business for 20-ish years and it all started with one cab,” SB Limo Operations Manager Stephanie Chase explained. “This was back before Pandora and all that good stuff, and he was the only cab in town that had an iPod with like a million songs, where you could pick your own music and play it as loud as you wanted in his car, … before Uber, before rideshares.”

Originally known as Rock Star Transportation, Hooshman’s company gradually evolved into SB Limo, with several kinds of vehicles—specifically luxury vehicles—at its disposal to rent out.

“He got a whole fleet going and hired like 10 drivers, and it’s just expanded from that cab service to luxury transportation,” Chase said. “And to go with the times, once Uber and Lyft took over, we got rid of the cabs and started doing more luxury wine tours, weddings, and events like that.”

Sprinter limousines (available to rent for $110 to $125 per hour), minicoaches ($225 to $250 per hour), and trolleys ($150 to $225 per hour) are among the rides customers book most often for weddings, wedding receptions, bridal showers, and bachelor/bachelorette parties, Chase said.

To find out more about SB Limo, call (805) 965-4900 or visit sblimos.com. The company’s headquarters is located at 803 Kolding Ave., Solvang. ALL ABOARD THE RAVE-Y TRAIN:

However, requests to rent a traditional stretch limousine—like SB Limo’s Lincoln stretch 8-to-10 -passenger limo (offered for $100 per hour on weekdays; $115 per hour on weekends)—have gone the way of the dodo in recent years, she added.

Roadside assistance

“Stretch limos are kind of obsolete now. Nobody really wants them because you have to crouch down and get into them,” said Chase, who’s worked for SB Limo for about 15 years. “Now we have limo Sprinters where you can walk right into them. … It just kind of evolved into Sprinters where there’s room for you to stand up but still have that limo wrap-around seating. And it’s higher off the ground, you can see out the windows. That’s kind of the preference right now.”

On occasion, Chase added, “one out of 100 people” will ask to rent a classic stretch limo, which SB Limo is happy to facilitate.

Based in Solvang, the company offers its services throughout Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties.

“We do all over. A lot in SLO. A lot in Ojai,” Chase said. “Occasionally, we go pretty far out. I would say we’re mostly in Santa Barbara County, all the way down to Camarillo, and all the way up to San Luis Obispo.”

Of the various rides SB Limo can provide, Chase said one of her personal favorites is the town-style trolley.

“I think the trolleys are super cute. We have a white and gold wedding trolley with wooden bench seating,” she said. “Then we have this 13-passenger limo bus that I really like. It’s really big. It’s got the limo wrap-around seating, ice buckets, TVs.”

There’s one trolley trait that can be a deal breaker for some wedding parties, Chase added.

“It’s kind of limiting because they’re open-air, and people dressed up with their hair done might not want wind blowing through and messing up the vibe,” she said.

Outside of being booked for wedding services, SB Limo often serves clients who organize winery and vineyard tours across the Santa Ynez Valley and other parts of Santa Barbara County, including venues in Santa Maria and Sisquoc along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, the Santa Rita Hills area, and Los Alamos.

Wine tour packages include several amenities for riders, ranging from chilled sparkling wine on board to complimentary cheese, crackers, and chocolates to snack on between wine tasting destinations.

The company also has bus and vehicle rental packages

designed for organizers in need of airport transportation, school field trip transportation, and other purposes.

As far as SB Limo has stretched away from its origins as a taxi company, its current services have a nod to its beginnings, Chase explained.

“All of our vehicles are Bluetooth accessible. You can play your own music on board, and that’s definitely a selling point for us because everyone wants to have their own music,” she said. “Most of our vehicles also have TVs, so you can play videos or whatever else you would want on the screens.” m

Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.

Natural elegance

Sun Canyon Florals brings whimsy and nature to wedding design

BY CHLOË HODGE

For Victoria Duncan, flowers are a language spoken through texture, scent, color, and imperfection—and a way of inviting people into the present on one of the most meaningful days of their lives.

“I feel like flowers provide a state of presence that is sometimes really hard in the modern world,” Duncan said. “And when I’m designing, I’m thinking about offering that gift of presence to my clients.”

As the founder of Sun Canyon Florals, Duncan is known across the Central Coast for wedding

designs that feel as though they were discovered rather than arranged: meadow-like installations, curling stems, lichen tucked among blooms, and color palettes that feel alive rather than curated.

“The natural world inspires me a lot,” she said.

“I take a lot of time to just … be in the natural world and just be present and take a look around and look at all the little details. So that’s where a lot of my design comes from. It’s kind of just like an interpretation of nature. I try to keep my designs feeling like you would find them in a meadow.”

That instinct to let flowers feel found rather than placed sits at the heart of Duncan’s work. Her arrangements resist rigidity. They lean, spill, and move. Ceremony arches drift instead of frame. Centerpieces stretch outward, softening tables and inviting guests closer. Nothing feels frozen in time, and that’s by design.

Before color palettes or layouts come into focus, Duncan’s thinking about how a day should feel and how that emotion can be translated through blooms. Flowers, for her, are not a finishing touch. They are the foundation.

“They tell you everything,” she said. “How soft something should feel. How bold. How much space it needs.”

Her artistry is rooted in observation; she studies how flowers exist in nature—how wild blooms cluster unevenly, how stems bend toward light, how beauty rarely arrives perfectly balanced. She brings that same sensibility into her wedding work, where imperfection isn’t something

Weddings Issue

Say, ‘I do’

To learn more about Sun Canyon Florals and book your wedding, visit suncanyonflorals.com.

to be corrected but something to be honored.

“Perfection is a very interesting word in the wedding industry,” she said. “And I think in my design, I like to highlight the imperfection because the natural world is rarely perfect. If you look at flowers, sometimes you’ll notice like, oh, half the petals are red, half the petals are white.”

That philosophy shows up in her material choices. Alongside traditional blooms, Duncan often incorporates unexpected elements: branches, grasses, seed pods, dried textures, even bits of lichen or vine. The result is floral work that feels layered and tactile, grounded in the natural world.

IMPERFECT:

“I love finding little pieces that make people look twice,” she said. “A branch that bends in a funny way, curly stems. I love those little weirdos.”

Each wedding she designs for begins with a conversation where Duncan listens for emotional cues.

“Obviously, aesthetics are important to me, but I think what’s really important to me is the act of love and just noticing the ritual and wonderful love ceremony that I get to create a space for,” she said. “Every time I’m creating a ceremony, I feel like those are my favorites because I’m really usually just framing a space to make sure it’s a safe and present space for people to make a really important commitment in their life.”

Duncan’s designs are also responsive to place. She draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape, allowing the environment to guide her choices.

“If it’s a coastal wedding, it might feel airy and windswept,” she said. “Inland weddings might lean richer, more grounded, pulling from the tones and textures of vineyards or canyons.”

The flowers in her arrangements don’t compete with their setting—they converse with it. That sensitivity has made Duncan’s work resonate with couples seeking something more experiential than performative.

“I want people to feel the flowers, not just see them,” she said. “It’s about the experience, not just the look.”

Flowers are living things, and Duncan treats them as such. Installation is not just execution but creation—an ongoing dialogue between space, light, weather, and material.

“We’re always working with Mother Nature,” she

said. “She’s in charge one hundred percent, I’m just trying my best to dance with her.”

On wedding days, that adaptability becomes essential. Duncan moves through spaces, shaping and reshaping until the florals feel at home. Her presence is steady, attentive, and grounded, mirroring the values that guide her work.

“I want people to feel like they can breathe when they’re with the flowers,” she said. “That’s really important to me.”

In the end, Duncan’s florals are an invitation. To slow down. To notice. To experience beauty not as something staged, but as something alive. m

Reach New Times Staff Writer Chloë Hodge from the Sun’s sister paper at chodge@newtimesslo.com.

By the power vested

It’s surprisingly easy to become ordained and officiate wedding ceremonies

BY REV. DR. GLEN F. STARKEY

Do your friends or family find you entertaining?

Do they think you truly love and care about them and have special insight into their relationships? If so, prepare yourself, because they may ask you to marry them … to each other, I mean. Not to you, silly!

Estimates vary, but somewhere between 41 and 50 percent of marriages are performed by the couple’s friend or family member, who pay a small fee to become ordained online.

The OG of the ordination game is Modestobased Universal Life Church (themonastery.org), but another Universal Life Church (getordained. org) split off and became its own organization when the OG got in hot water with the IRS. It’s since been resolved.

There’s also American Marriage Ministries (amm.org) or the entertainingly named Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster (spaghettimonster.org).

“These credentials are suitable for presiding over social ceremonies such as weddings and baptisms, performing last rites, casting out false prophets, performing exorcisms, and so on,” the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster explains on its website.

Marry me!

getordained.org, amm.org, and spaghettimonster.org.

in … you?

“There are always traditionalists at ceremonies like that and are probably a little bit put off and taken aback when you get a little bit cheeky with things,” Senn admitted. “But, you know, I wanted to put my own stamp on it.”

Senn and his wife, Melanie, a novelist, had recently attended another wedding that inspired his two goals for his service.

“My goals were to try to enunciate and speak up so everybody could hear what I was saying, and No. 2—try to make it very quick and lighthearted so we could get on because, you know, nobody’s there for the freaking ceremony. They want to move on to everything else.”

If you’re asked to officiate and you’re completely adrift, the newer version of Universal Life Church has an online wedding script generator.

“Are you officiating an upcoming wedding? Struggling to come up with the right words for the big day?” its website asked. “Don’t beat yourself up—creating a ceremony script from scratch is no easy task. That’s why we devised our very own wedding ceremony script generator for you to use! With this tool, crafting a professional, high-quality wedding script takes just minutes. Just input a few basic details, and we’ll take care of the rest!”

Weddings Issue

Hm. That “false prophets” thing could come in handy these days.

Local singer-songwriter and commercial real estate agent Derek Senn performed his first and (so far) only wedding ceremony in 2025.

“I officiated my sister’s wedding on a boat in Lake George, New York, last summer. I am ordained as a card-carrying member of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster. It’s like 60 bucks, and you get your little card. Suddenly I was off to officiate a wedding.”

Often couples have a lot of input into what they want in their service, but not Senn’s sister, Allison.

“She told me nothing,” he laughed. “She said, ‘Will you officiate the ceremony?’ And I said, ‘Yes,’ and I asked, ‘Are you gonna write vows?’ And she said, ‘No.’ She never asked me to say or do anything, so I felt I had carte blanche to do whatever the hell I wanted to do, but obviously, because she’s my sister and I knew her and Michael, I felt I was able to personalize it.”

Senn’s ceremony was witty, heartfelt, and a wee bit irreverent—exactly the kind of thing a clergyperson’s service wouldn’t be—and attendees loved it.

Oh AI, what can’t you do? FYI, this probably isn’t what your couple is looking for.

Former SLO radio personality and current Ohio advertising creative director Fred Boettger got his start doing weddings in SLO in “2007 or 2008.” Must have been a helluva reception if you can’t remember what year.

“It was my youngest stepson, and I thought, ‘Ooh, my first one, a little pressure,’ because the whole family was there,” he recalled. “But it went well because I had done radio and had spoken in front of people a lot, so it wasn’t too scary.” Boettger, ordained through Universal Life Church, has continued performing weddings over the years.

“San Luis was my very first one of many,” he noted. “I’ve had the fortunate privilege to perform a ceremony for both my nieces, my great niece, friends, people that I know well, family friends. The picture I sent you was some people that I’ve known for 20 years, and it was their kid, so I knew this kid since he was young.

“I think it’s a big advantage because if you have some sort of personal connection, you can tell a

story about the couple to everybody—because that’s really what the ceremony is,” he continued. “Everyone’s there to witness some sort of personal connection. I always judge that, if there’s a little bit of laughing and a little bit of crying, then I feel like, ‘OK, things went well.’ If you can get some tears in there, it’s always nice.”

Oceano resident, 95.3FM The Beach radio DJ, and voiceover artist Jennifer Grant’s very first marriage ceremony was for her friends “the Andrews.”

“I call them ‘the Andrews’ because they’re both named Andrew,” she explained. “Andrew Cannon was my boss at another radio station, and he and his now husband, Andrew Tucker, ended up becoming my really good friends, so when they decided to get married—and it was finally legal to do so in the state of California—they messaged.”

Grant opened the message in the Vons parking lot in Grover Beach and screamed out loud she was so thrilled.

“I was super excited and happy for them,” she recalled. “I scared the crap out of the guy in the car next to me by screaming so loudly, and I’m not a screamer.”

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She was also ordained by the Universal Life Church and married the Andrews in 2014, shortly after the passage of Proposition 8. They thankfully had a lot of ideas for their service, as did the couple of Grant’s second marriage ceremony, her father and stepmom, which she officiated at their home in front of 60 guests.

“I’m not a religious person, and neither was anybody involved,” Grant noted of both weddings.

Lack of religious affiliation can be another reason to go with a friend or family member as officiant.

“I was honored on both occasions to be asked,” she said. “I think it’s very sweet. If I ever get married … well, I got kicked out of Catholic school in the third grade, so thanks for playing. True. Wheaton, Illinois. But not being a super religious person, I still like the idea of there being some kind of ceremony and having somebody that you genuinely love and care about perform it. I think it’s kind of almost an extra blessing.” m

Contact New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey, from the Sun’s sister paper, at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.

Break-up shake-up

The Divorce Party Handbook tackles touchy topics with levity, introspection

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Every divorce involves two people, both of whom can often feel quite isolated throughout their respective ordeals. But not just from each other, local author Christine Gallagher told the Sun

“I’ve been divorced myself. It’s a very big deal, and the whole point of this,” she said while holding up a paperback copy of The Divorce Party Handbook, “is, with all the big things that happen in your life, you have a ritual. Birth, graduation, marriage. You have a ritual, something with people around you.

“But with divorce, you’re pretty isolated,” the Los Alamos resident continued. “The whole idea of a divorce party is that it marks a transition, and you have people around you, and it kind of helps you through it. Humans need a ritual to get them through a big change in life, and that was what I built this around. It wasn’t just, ‘Oh, let’s go to Vegas and get drunk.’ It has a real meaning.”

Commemorating a divorce isn’t the only kind of celebration hitched to Gallagher’s book this year, as 2026 marks the 10th anniversary of its release.

Prior to the book’s publication in January 2016, Gallagher was living and working in Los Angeles as a longtime professional event planner. Some of her past clients’ customized and themed requests for divorce parties made it into the book as examples for readers interested in throwing a similar festivity.

“The parties can be whatever you like. They can be lots of fun. For some people, they can be serious. It depends on what you want or what you need,” Gallagher said. “We had one woman who was devastated after finding out her husband— who had been taking ‘golf lessons’ every Friday— was having an affair.”

Divorce proceedings commenced after Gallagher’s client discovered her husband’s golf clubs were sealed as if brand new, the author explained.

“She was a wreck and everything,” Gallagher said. “We proposed having a golf-themed party, just to try to take this heavy thing and make light of it. So we did a whole golf thing. Everybody had to wear golf clothes, and we had this handsome golf instructor come in and show the ladies how to swing. And we had golf balls with her exhusband’s face printed on them.

“It ended up being good,” she continued, “because it took all this weight and made it into a fun sort of event that worked for this particular

person. It doesn’t always work, because some people don’t want to make light of tragedy. But in this particular case, it did.”

The Divorce Party Handbook is full of suggestions related to divorce party games, themed cocktail selections, and break-up song playlists. There’s also an etiquette section in Gallagher’s book that addresses situations where it’s appropriate for both ex-partners to hold a joint party, she explained.

“On occasion, two people breaking up can have a party together, in the event that they don’t want to split up their friends and it’s a friendly divorce,” Gallagher said. “Because one bad thing about divorce is that people often choose sides.”

She remembered a client couple of hers who held a cocktail party to announce their divorce in front of their friends, “to say, ‘Hey, we’re OK, you guys should be OK with us breaking up.’”

“They didn’t want people to ostracize their partner,” Gallagher said.

Almost a decade before The Divorce Party Handbook ’s publication, Gallagher’s first nonfiction book, The Woman’s Book of Revenge: Tips on Getting Even When ‘Mr. Right’ Turns Out to Be All Wrong, hit stands in 1998.

Most of Gallagher’s time nowadays is occupied by the restaurant she co-owns, Plenty on Bell in Los Alamos. But she had enough spare moments over the past few years to create her first work of fiction, Ruby’s Revenge, released in 2025.

The novel follows a protagonist who, not unlike some of her past event planning clients, realizes her husband is having an affair.

All of Gallagher’s books are available through Amazon.

“I have another half-written [fiction] book I’m working on,” Gallagher teased, “when I can carve out the time to be left alone.”

Highlight

• The Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau recently appointed Melanie Lindley as its new executive director and Amanda Mansfield as its new communications director.

“Their experience, energy, and commitment to our community mark an exciting new chapter for the chamber,” the organization said in a Feb. 17 statement. Lindley’s past experience includes roles with the U.S. Air Force and United Launch Alliance, while Mansfield has a background in corporate support and housing operations, according to the chamber. m Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com.

Should smaller water users be excluded from the court process to decide groundwater usage in the Cuyama basin?

40% No. Everyone who uses the groundwater should be in the same proceedings.

40% Yes! People who don’t use much water shouldn’t be dragged into court.

20% Whatever happens, the big ag users need to be held accountable.

0% Yes. This issue shouldn’t have even gone to the courts.

5 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

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Valid views

Multiple perspectives on issues surrounding immigration can be valid

BY BILL BROWN

In a statement I wrote on the recent events in Minneapolis, I said the tragic shooting deaths of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother, and Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, were gut-wrenching tragedies. I also said the investigations into both should be allowed to conclude before judgement is cast, and I expressed concern that inaccurate and provocative remarks made by political leaders on both sides of the aisle make the goal of achieving bipartisan immigration reform even more elusive.

At a subsequent protest rally held in Santa Barbara, several local elected officials demanded I speak out against federal law enforcement actions and explain how the Sheriff’s Office can protect the community from immigration enforcement. In response to my statement, 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps told the crowd, “I disagree with the sheriff. This is not a moment for bothsides language.”

Actually, there should always be room for differing perspectives. Differences matter. All voices should be heard and considered—especially now—without demonizing one another. Two things can be, and often are, true at the same time. We should be cautious of groupthink and understand that alternative ways of thinking don’t cancel each other out.

During the past year, I have spoken about

Immigration issues affect everyone

“It made me really sad,” Brisa, an 11th grader and daughter of immigrant farmworkers, said.

“I had a feeling they weren’t going to vote for this because they are privileged, but I had a little bit of hope because I wanted them to help with this situation.”

Brisa, like many youth in Santa Maria, has watched her community become a target. She has attended Santa Maria City Council meetings alongside her peers to advocate for protections for

immigration enforcement publicly and repeatedly, at Board of Supervisors meetings, at community meetings, and in the abovereferenced remarks. I have not been silent on this issue. I just haven’t said what some people have wanted to hear.

In all my communications, I have made it crystal clear that the Sheriff’s Office protects and serves everyone in our community, regardless of their immigration status. We do not want anyone who is undocumented to hesitate to call us if they are a victim of crime or if they witness a crime. We do not enforce or assist in enforcing federal immigration law in our community, except as sparingly permitted by state law in our jails. I have also said that local law enforcement does not have authority over federal agencies.

The fear and heartbreak experienced by undocumented people in our community, especially those whose loved ones have been detained or deported, is real and distressing. Across political lines, many of us recognize that people who entered this country in violation of immigration law, or who were brought here as children but have otherwise been law-abiding, often for decades, are usually good, productive people who contribute very positively to our communities and economy. They have become our neighbors, colleagues, and friends.

Given their situation, current law should be changed so that these long-term residents and Dreamers could be properly vetted and offered a path to legal residency and work approval.

At the same time, we must always be willing

their immigrant friends and families.

Back in October, councilmembers agonized over forming an immigration ad hoc committee after the item was postponed in September because the council was unprepared to discuss it.

Brisa’s disappointment was unmistakable. “This is a big issue for me; I have seen how brown people are being targeted.”

ICE activity has surged across the nation with tactics more aggressive than ever, yet our City Council continues to stall. On Feb. 3, youth and activists once again urged council members to take basic action by establishing an immigration

to acknowledge difficult truths. While the vast majority of those who have entered this country illegally did so in search of a better life and have remained otherwise law-abiding, there have also been many serious crimes committed by unlawful entrants. Americans across our nation worry about criminal activity by members of violent gangs, organized theft groups, smugglers and dealers of illicit and often lethal drugs (which killed almost 350 people in our county in just the last three years), and other serious crimes committed by undocumented criminals.

These have included some notorious homicides here in Santa Barbara County, including the brutal murder of Marilyn Pharis, a 64-year-old Air Force veteran in Santa Maria in 2015. The following year, during a sting called Operation Matador in Santa Maria, 13 of the 16 suspects arrested for the MS-13 gang-related murders of 10 victims were identified by ICE as undocumented.

These heartbreaking tragedies underscore the need for immigration law and enforcement reforms that protect public safety while still upholding our collective values.

In the meantime, everyone should adhere to the law, and it should be enforced fairly, courteously, and professionally. We can support the law, or we can work to change it, while still having empathy and compassion for others. We must support the right to peaceful protest and civil discourse, whether we agree or disagree with what’s being said. Respect and decency must remain the standard. m

Bill Brown is the Santa Barbara County Sheriff. Send a response for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.

ad hoc committee to focus on support the city can provide. Public comment overflowed with testimonies on the local impacts. In one comment, a student mentioned how their peer took on a second job to help support their family after her father was kidnapped.

In response, Mayor Patino said that those ICE officers go to work every day and deserve to come home at night to their loved ones, disregarding the hundreds of people kidnapped by ICE in Santa Maria. “I do not want Santa Maria as a sanctuary city,” Patino continued.

Meanwhile, Santa Maria has been continuously hit with aggressive ICE kidnappings since the crackdown on immigration. Santa Maria is home to one of the region’s largest Latino immigrant communities, many who are farmworkers and at risk. Federal agents are showing up to our community in tactical gear and military vehicles, pointing firearms at unarmed community members who are lawfully observing their actions. In November 2025, ICE caused a car collision, leaving a person injured, bystanders shaken, and our entire community looking to our elected officials for their leadership.

As uncertainty grows, youth like Brisa and other students have remained strong, refusing to be defeated by adults who lack the empathy to take action. Students have joined forces with immigrant rights activists and community-based organizations to urge their council members to take bolder measures, rather than hide behind “government limitations” as they’ve done for years to justify their long-standing silence.

Despite the statistics and increased urgency from their residents, Santa Maria council members, with the exception of Gloria Soto, have been adamant that this issue does not fall under their jurisdiction and have yet to take meaningful action.

“Just because it doesn’t impact you doesn’t mean it’s not an issue,” Brisa said. “People should be showing up to city council meetings or calling their council members and urge them to take action. We need to speak out about what’s going on.”

Listening committee Opinion

The immigration discussion is happening in Santa Maria whether certain elected officials want it to or not. After months of stalling, the City Council is pushing forward with discussing an immigration ad hoc committee.

At the insistence of Councilmember Gloria Soto, who first asked for the ad hoc committee last August, the council finally voted to put a discussion about it on a future agenda.

While Mayor Alice Patino was mum on the issue, Councilmember Carlos Escobedo—an immigrant who hasn’t murmured much about federal immigration enforcement, protests, or undocumented immigrants—was cryptic.

“I’m telling you guys, you might not hear something that you like, or might not like, but I’m glad that finally, … it’s time to make decisions,” he said during the Feb. 17 meeting. “We need to get things done, and move on, and I’m not just talking about immigration.”

Why, Carlos? What are you going to say?

News flash: This immigration conversation isn’t going away. No one’s moving on. It’s going to continue to come up. It’s just a fact of life in Santa Maria—and that’s not going to change with a decision about whether the city forms an ad hoc committee to talk about it or not.

What will this committee do? There isn’t much a city can actually do when it comes to the federal enforcement agenda, which Patino has said so many times over the years that she’s been mayor that she’s probably sick of hearing herself say it. But, as Soto laid out, a committee can hear from the people, it can listen to the people who are most impacted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement

I guess listening is doing something. Or is it just like patting someone on the back to make them feel better?

When Soto requested the ad hoc committee discussion in August, she also asked that the council “consider holding a meeting with stakeholders regarding the recent ICE raids and the impact on the community.” Whether those two are connected or not, who knows. It’s all very vague. Maybe we’ll find out in March?

Soto tried to get Patino to insert some direction into the future agenda item, but the city attorney wasn’t having it—and Patino was silent. After her misdirected Feb. 3 monologue that seemed to imply that undocumented immigrants and criminal activity were connected, that’s not surprising.

Although, Patino did speak up to defend herself and how certain members of the community took what she said that night. Several public commenters on Feb. 17 took their allotted time to criticize Patino’s statements, and she interjected.

“I have never, ever, ever characterized the immigrants as being criminals,” she said. “My grandparents would be very upset if they knew I’d called them criminals. I have never said that.” Oh, but you were pretty darn close! Whether Patino meant to or not, it was implied in her speech. Which sucks on so many levels. It sucks for her, for the city, for residents, for immigrants, for the situation we find ourselves in with the Trump administration’s push to deport as many immigrants as possible—not just the ones whose papers aren’t in order.

There isn’t much the city can do. That’s real. But elected representatives can hear their constituents out. It’s the least they can do. m

The Canary is always listening. Send your thoughts to canary@santamariasun.com.

Santa Maria Style Banking 25 Years in the Making

See how you can nominate your favorite 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization for a share of $25,000. Just stop by or go to our website for details. Then every month, March through December, we will draw one name per month from those nominated and each will receive $2,500. Please join us in celebrating the great work nonprofits do in our community.

Hot Stuff

ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/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.

PCPA PRESENTS MEASURE FOR MEASURE The PCPA presents Shakespeare’s most provocative and morally complex play, Measure for Measure

Get show times and tickets at the link.

Feb. 26 -March 15 $25-$41. pcpa.org.

PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria, (805) 922-8313.

VALLEY ART GALLERY: ROTATING

DISPLAYS Featured artists of Santa Maria’s Valley Art Gallery frequently display their works at the airport. Check website for details on monthly exhibits

and full list of the gallery’s artists. ongoing valleygallery.org. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

BETWEEN EARTH & SKY EXHIBIT

Featuring 20 dazzling photos of bright and beautiful birds amidst the backdrop of California wildflowers, Between Earth & Sky showcases some of local photographer Deborah Kalas’ most spirited work. Mondays, Thursdays-Sundays. through April 20 calnatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA

Check the venue’s calendar for storytelling workshops, lectures, movie nights, and discussions held on a periodic basis. ongoing thelavra.org/home. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES

Actor’s Edge offers film and television acting training in San Luis Obispo, plus exposure to Los Angeles talent agents. All ages and skill levels welcome. Classes available in SLO, LA, and on zoom. ongoing $210 per month. actorsedge.com. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

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. through March 7. 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) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 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.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET This highenergy jukebox musical is a celebration of music history, packed with heart, humor,

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.

and pure rock ‘n’ roll magic. Fridays, 7-9 p.m., Saturdays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m., Sundays, 2-4 p.m., Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. and Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. through March 5 $43-$63. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/ shows/million-dollar-quartet-2026/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

PAINT & SIP ON LA LOMITA RANCH Sip, swirl, and paint your pet into a one-of-akind canvas. No experience is required! Art supplies, instruction, ranch views, and first glass of wine are included. March 1 , 1-3 p.m. $60-$65. (805) 706-8034. La Lomita Ranch, 1985 La Lomita Way, San Luis Obispo, lalomitaranch.com.

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.

POISONED See 15 comedians perform, while a little buzzed on stage. Feb. 27, 11 p.m. $18.43. my805tix.com. Woodstock’s Pizza, 1000 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4420.

SAMANTHA NYE: WEB OF LOVE See Guggenheim Fellow Samantha Nye’s immersive video installation starring Annie Sprinkle and Beth Stephens filmed on location in SLO. Mondays, Fridays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. through March 13 Free. cuesta.edu/

ST. PADDY’S SWING

The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens presents the annual St. Paddy’s Dance with Riptide Big Band and vocalists on Sunday, March 8, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center in Santa Maria. Dress in green and hear featured vocalists, Bob Nations and Mitch Latting. Visit riptidebb.com for additional details.

community/cuesta-arts/artgallery/20252026-Exhibitions/WebofLove.html. Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-3202.

SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN

MIC NIGHT Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337, libertinebrewing.com.

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING

WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors. To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net

Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO SHOW

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

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES Features works by Ellen Jewett as well as 20 other local artists, and artists from southern and northern California. Thursdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. (559) 799-9632. costagallery.com. Costa Gallery, 2087 10th St., Los Osos.

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

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE MARCH 2026 FEATURED ARTISTS See the seven new featured artists on display until the end of March. March 1 -29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com/. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS “PACIFIC LIGHT” AN OIL PAINTING GROUP SHOW “Pacific Light” features fine art oil paintings by Joan Brown, Carol Astaire, and Patricia Newton in Gallery at Marina Square. Feb. 28 - March 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 CARY LARSON-MCKAY, EXHIBITING MIXED MEDIA SMALL WORKS See mixed media small works by Cary Larson-McKay, watercolor, collage, and more in the Craft Atelier Space in Gallery at Marina Square. Feb. 28 - March 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 TERESA FERGUSON, FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY Central Coast photographer Teresa Ferguson exhibits majestic landscapes of the central coast in the Upper Gallery at Gallery at Marina Square. Feb. 28 - March 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: GRANT KREINBERG & LORA SALVADOR, PHOTOGRAPHY Discover a fine art photography exhibition by Grant Kreinberg & Lora Salvador in the Upper Gallery in Gallery at Marina Square. Feb. 28 - March 29 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (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. ongoing (805) 772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/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.

FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.

FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/.

Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.

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.

GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check

website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing (805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org.

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

SANTA MARIA BOXING CLUB PRESENTS

LEGENDARY 009 CLUB Get ready for an action-packed afternoon of amateur boxing as local fighters step into the ring and bring the heat! This is a family-friendly event celebrating athleticism, discipline, and community spirit. March 7, noon $25. my805tix.com. Edwards Community Center, 809 Panther Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-3158.

SMV HISTORICAL SOCIETY ANNUAL LUNCH AND JULIA MORGAN

PRESENTATION SMV Historical Society Annual Meeting Lunch, presentation about Julia Morgan and Minerva Club Building sponsored by The Foundation at Hearst Castle. March 7, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $35. (805) 922-3130. santamariahistory.com. Minerva Club, 127 W. Boone, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

CASA IS GOING DISCO Join CASA for a night inspired by the glitz, glamour, and golden glow of Studio 54––all in support of local foster youth. Feb. 28

5-9 p.m. $175. (805) 357-2595. CASADisco. givesmart.com. Chumash Casino Resort, 3400 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez.

SYV PRIDE 3RD ANNUAL LOVE ABOVE ALL BALL Santa Ynez Valley Pride’s biggest fundraising event of the year, the elegant and elevated Love Above All Ball, supports SYV Pride events in 2026. Feb. 28 , 7-10 p.m. $100-$175. (805) 2525794. syvpride.org. Craft House at Corque, 420 Alisal Road, Solvang.

THE WOMEN WINEMAKERS AND CULINARIANS GRAND TASTING The casitas, barn, and lawns of 27 Vines will be filled with dozens of women winemakers and their lady culinary colleagues, fronted by the just-awake March 7, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (805) 688-0881. 27 Vines, 27 Vines, Santa Ynez, CA, USA, Santa Ynez.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

LOMPOC ART WALK Lompoc transforms into a celebration and showcase of local artists during this monthly event, which features live music, art, exciting exhibitions, performances, and a variety of unique vendors. First Thursday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Old Town Lompoc, H and I St., Lompoc.

THE VILLAGE TREASURE CHEST This event is for the whole family. There will be vendors selling their wears, music, facepainting, and some kind of food booth. Come out and spend part of your Saturday supporting local vendors. First Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Vandenberg Village Community Services District Office, 3745 Constellation Road, Lompoc, (805) 291-6370.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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

BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

SOUND OF YOUTH

Certain Sparks Music in Lompoc will host a Youth Open Mic Night on Friday, Feb. 27, from 6 to 8 p.m., for all interested performers ages 18 and under. There will be food, prizes, and community; instruments will be provided. Head to csmusicfoundation.org for more details.

BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS

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

BYE BYE BIRDIE See this musical satire about teen idol Conrad Birdie, inspired by Elvis Presley’s draft. Get tickets at the link. Feb. 27 7 p.m., Feb. 28 7 p.m., March 6 7 p.m., March 7, 7 p.m. and March 8 2 p.m. $15. my805tix.com. The Studio Black Box Theater, 835 W. Grand Ave, Grover Beach, (805) 473-0377.

COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY

Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks

including pathways maintenance, litter patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, irrigation system expansion/repairs, pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, and tools related to the above activities. First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 710-3073. Nipomo Native Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo.

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

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies.

Contact empoweryoga805@gmail.com for details and reservations. ongoing (805) 619-0989. empoweryoga805.com.

Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

MORE EVERYDAY IMPROV: SKILLS FOR LIFE Interactive applied improvisation classes build empathy, emotional intelligence, resilience, and creativity through accessible, laughter-filled exercises. No experience is required; attend individual sessions or the full series. Every other Sunday, 6-7:30 p.m. through March 29 $15 each or $75 all. theagilemind. co/. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande, (805) 270-5523.

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. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52 Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological. Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. (805) 547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index.php/chapter-52los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano. 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 2026 STATE OF DOWNTOWN SLO Join for an engaging evening focused on progress, economic vitality, and partnership in downtown San Luis Obispo. We will share highlights from our 2025 Annual Report, showcasing the impact of our organization over the past year, along with upcoming downtown activations and our vision for the months ahead. Connect with fellow business and civic leaders, community stakeholders, and neighbors as we

Hot Stuff

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE from page 17

explore growth opportunities and collaborate on solutions to support a thriving downtown San Luis Obispo. March 2 5:30 p.m. $76.83-$92.90. my805tix.com. La Esquina Taqueria, 1051 Nipomo Street, 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, 6:30-7:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody. com. Live Webinar, online, SLO County.

ANNUAL SCION EXCHANGE AND GRAFTING

DEMONSTRATIONS Free Scions, free grafting demos, a store, rootstock sales, and free snacks. Meet at the Cal Poly Crops Science classroom, on the corner of Highland Dr. and Mt Bishop Dr. Feb. 28 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. (805) 540-4426. crfg-central.org/ scion-exchange. Cal Poly, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. ASTRONOMY NIGHT & STARGAZING Explore the night sky with real astronomers using telescopes at SLO Botanical Garden. View planets, stars, and deep-sky objects. All ages are welcome. Feb. 27 noon Free. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd, San Luis Obispo. BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. BUILDING A BETTER SLO PRESENTS COMMUNITY LAND TRUST: PLACEKEEPING FOR THE LOCAL PLACEKEEPERS Join in welcoming Ofelia Bello to San Luis Obispo to talk Community Land Trusts and their growth throughout the US. March 5, 5:45-7:30 p.m. $17.91. my805tix.com. The Penny, 664 Marsh Street, 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. CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:30-11:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo. DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/ week or $125/month. (646) 280-5800. margotschaal.com/ qigong. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. DEATH CAFE (EVERY 1ST TUESDAY ON THE MONTH) At Death Café, curiosity and community converge for open, thoughtful conversations about mortality, loss, and our shared human experience. Donations to Hospice SLO County are always appreciated. First Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 544-2266. hospiceslo.org/services/death-caf%C3%A9. Hospice SLO County, 1304 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo. FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and importance to the development of this area. Tours are led by docents and meet in front of the church Sundays, 2:30 p.m. and MondaysSaturdays, 1:15 p.m. Free. (805) 550-7713. missionslodocents.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free with $5 Garden Entry. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo. HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A safe place to share feelings of depression with those who suffer and those who have recovered to a full, healthy outlook on life. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

KAL PENN: FROM WHITE CASTLE TO THE WHITE HOUSE An evening with Emmy-nominated actor and former White House official, blending acclaimed screen roles with public service and storytelling to inspire dialogue, engagement, and change. Feb. 26 7:30 p.m. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts.org/20252026season/kal-penn-from-white-castle-to-the-white-house. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A pro-recovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. First Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION (ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural,

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 21

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and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SLO FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK

SALE Browse 7,500 books, on sale for all ages. SLO FOL Members will receive early access from 9 a.m. to noon, before the sale opens to the general public. Feb. 26-28 , 9 a.m.-5 p.m. slofol.org. San Luis Obispo Library, 995 Palm St., San Luis Obispo.

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB

MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org.

Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID.

SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets at the SLO Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors are welcome. First Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 540-9484, slocity.org/seniors.

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN: WEEKLY

COFFEE MEETING SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace for this Crows End Retreat outdoor class, which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email for location and to reserve a spot.

Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+

AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary, worldwide fellowship of folks from all walks of life who together, attain and maintain sobriety. Requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Email aarapgroup@gmail.com for password access. Sundays, 7-8 p.m. No fee. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

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

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

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY 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.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY Head to Food Truck Friday, with wine bottle specials and local food trucks every Friday at the Wine Stone Inn. Fridays, 4-9 p.m. through April 24 Free. (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE

ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays (805) 922-1468. costadeorowines.com.

Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT WINE STONE INN Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

FRIDAY NIGHT FUN Karaoke with DJ Nasty. With Beer Bucket specials. Kitchen stays open late. Come out and sing your favorite song. Fridays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

PRESQU’ILE WINERY: WINE CLUB Call or go online to make a reservation to taste at the winery or find more info on the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS

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

SOCRATES DISCUSSION GROUP Have a topic, book, or article you wish to discuss with interested and interesting people? Join this weekly meeting to discuss it, or simply contribute your experiences and knowledge. Contact Mark Plater for instructions on entering the Chapel area. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon (805) 528-7111. Coalesce Garden Chapel, 845 Main St., Morro Bay.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/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.

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. 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

Hot Stuff

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 COUNTY

MONTHLY FERMENTATION

CLASSES New topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home. Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/ email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 8016627. kulturhausbrewing.com/ classes/. Join to expand your knowledge of the fermentation process and get started fermenting at home. We alternate between demonstration and hands-on classes. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30-$50. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

ON DISPLAY

Patricia Newton’s paintings will be on display along with the rest of March’s seven featured artists at Gallery at Marina Square in Morro Bay from Sunday, March 1, to Sunday, March 29. The gallery is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, head to galleryatmarinasquare.com.

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

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BRUNCH IS BACK Celebrate the second Sunday of the month with brunch. Enjoy a twohour cruise on the waterfront. Features fresh coffee, pastries, and more. Second Sunday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $50. (805) 772-2128. chabliscruises.com. Chablis Cruises, 1205 Embarcadero, Morro Bay.

WINEMAKER’S DINNER FEATURING HOPE

FAMILY WINES Join in welcoming Hope Family Wines to Cambria Pines Lodge for an intimate five-course wine dinner in our outdoor Pavilion Garden. March 1 5:30-8 p.m. $130. (805) 927-4200. cambriapineslodge.com. Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

ANNUAL ST. PADDY’S DANCE The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens presents the Annual St. Paddy’s Dance with Riptide Big Band and vocalists. March 8 , 1:30-4 p.m. Free. (775) 813-5186. RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine. com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri

specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

LIVE 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. ongoing (805) 9250464. 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 VALLEY

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

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

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 Enjoy food, prizes, and community! Open to all performers ages 18 and under. Instruments will be provided. Feb. 27 6-8 p.m. csmusicfoundation.org/. A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY BSR SPONSORED EVENT: THE LEGENDARY

DIRECTED BY SCOTTY BARNHART WITH JAZZ VOCALIST

(805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ANNUAL MUSIC FACULTY CONCERT: A FUNDRAISER FOR STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS

—A.S.

NNENNA FREELON Winner of 18 Grammy Awards, the Basie Orchestra has performed at every major jazz festival and concert hall, swinging with unmatched energy, style, and soul. March 1 3 p.m. $45-$75. clarkcenter.org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande, (805) 489-9444.

CLARK CENTER PRESENTS ICONIC: A GLORIOUS TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the unparalleled legacy of the King of Pop with ICONIC, the world’s top Michael Jackson tribute show. Feb. 28 3-5 & 8-10 p.m. $49-$69, Platinum $79; Senior & Student Discounts. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

CLARK CENTER PRESENTS THE LEGENDARY COUNT BASIE ORCHESTRA, DIRECTED BY SCOTTY BARNHART WITH JAZZ VOCALIST NNENNA FREELON Winner of 18 Grammy Awards, the Basie Orchestra has performed at every major jazz festival and concert hall, swinging with unmatched energy, style, and soul. March 1 3-5 p.m. $45-$65, Platinum $75; Senior & Student Discounts. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

CLARK CENTER PRESENTS: STEEP CANYON RANGERS Steep Canyon Rangers are set to return with their signature blend of bluegrass, Americana, and rich Carolina storytelling. Hear them live at Clark Center for the Performing Arts. March 7, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $45-$59, Platinum $65; Senior & Student Discounts. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

FREE BEGINNER LINE DANCING Join the line 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. No registration required. Not able to dance, take a seat, cheer on the dancers. March 3 , 1-2 p.m. Free. (805) 929-1615. nipomoseniorcenter.org/. Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St, Nipomo.

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. |2, 3 and My 805 Tix| 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.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH EXPERIENCE®: A JOHN DENVER TRIBUTE STARRING RICK SCHULER A Rocky Mountain High Experience® offers more than nostalgia—it’s an authentic celebration of the music that defined a generation. March 6 7:30 p.m. $69.50-$86.25.

Experience the artistry, energy, and improvisation of live jazz and classical music as the Cuesta Music Faculty take the stage to benefit music student scholarships! March 8 3 p.m. $10-$30. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo. CAL POLY INSTRUMENTAL STUDENT RECITAL A free recital presented by Cal Poly Music Department student instrumentalists. March 3 7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/free. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. CAL POLY JAZZ COMBOS SHOWCASE Cal Poly’s jazz combos will perform classic jazz repertoire as well as original student compositions. Dylan Johnson will be the director. March 5 7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/ calendar/jazz/. PAC Pavilion, Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo. CAL POLY WINTER JAZZ CONCERT: SOUNDS OF GROOVE

The concert will feature performances by various jazz ensembles, including the University Jazz Band, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, and Jazz Combos. Feb. 27 7:30 p.m. $17 and $22 general, $12 students and Jazz Federation members. (805) 756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/jazz/. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. CANZONA PRESENTS “RENAISSANCE, BAROQUE, AND BEYOND” Take a journey through centuries of sacred music with Canzona. We’ll delight our audience with Italian trios, Baroque duets, and spirited a cappella madrigals! March 1 3-5 p.m. $10-$35. (805) 242-6065. my805tix.com. SLO United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks St., San Luis Obispo. CHRIS THILE Grammy-winning mandolinist and MacArthur “Genius” Chris Thile, of Punch Brothers and Nickel Creek, blends Bach, folk, and improvisation in a wide-ranging, genredefying solo tour. Hear him live! Feb. 28 7:30 p.m. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts.org/20252026season/chris-thile. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. PEACE, BEAUTY, HARP Unwind into the weekend with the peace and beauty of the harp in the peace and beauty of SLO’s historic church. Fridays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. through March 20. Free. (805) 543-7212. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 1344 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. PUNK ROCK DRAG SHOW Enjoy band performances by Martirio, Lot in Life, and Bone Maggot, and drag performances by The Shimmer, Marceline Powerchord, Vicky Jean, Carbon Bard, and Estrella Electrica. March 8 6 p.m. $15. my805tix.com. Humdinger Brewing (SLO), 855 Capitolio Way, suite 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-9974. RENAISSANCE, BAROQUE AND BEYOND: SACRED AND PROFANE Take a journey through centuries of sacred music with Canzona Women’s Ensemble. From Isabella Leonarda’s Renaissance “Magnificat” to Poulenc’s 20th-century “Litanies à la Vierge Noire” for women’s voices and organ, we’ll delight our audience with Italian trios, Baroque duets, and spirited a cappella madrigals in English and French! March 1 3 p.m. $10-$35. my805tix.com. San Luis Obispo United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 242-6065.

SLO SYMPHONY PRESENTS CLASSICAL HITS Celebrate the brilliance of musical genius with three timeless works from history’s greatest composers, Bach Brandenburg Concerto, Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 “Eroica”. March 7, 7:30 p.m. $12-$92. (805) 543-3533. slosymphony.org/ calendar-2025-2026. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. m

ARTS BRIEFS

Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series hosts its last two shows of the season

To conclude its 45th season, the Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series is preparing for two more shows at St. Mark’s Church in Los Olivos. The organization’s quest is to deliver world-class music to the valley.

“Our concerts enrich, educate, and inspire audiences throughout the Santa Ynez Valley and surrounding communities, with complimentary tickets available to students,” according to its website.

Italian tunes will take the forefront on March 1, performed by tenor Giorgi Guliashvili and pianist Carrie-Ann Matheson. Award-winning vocalist Guliashvili is part of the Royal Ballet and Opera and has performed across Europe. Matheson is an educator and conductor, currently serving as artistic director at the San Francisco Opera Center.

The infamous Giacopuzzi Duo is set to perform their piano program on April 26. Jacopo and Maddalena Giacopuzzi are known for their international competition victories and performances at major music festivals.

Both shows start at 4 p.m. at St. Marks in the Valley Episcopal Church, located at 2901 Nojoqui Ave in Los Olivos. Buy tickets online by visiting syvconcerts.org. Students can attend at no cost, and general admission starts at $25. For more information about the concert series, call (805) 705-0938.

Presqu’ile Winery’s tasting room debuts an art vending machine

The next time wine tasters visit Presqu’ile Winery, they can collect artwork from a coin-operated mini print vending machine. It’s the latest effort from the winery to involve creativity with its food and wine offerings.

Created by artist Ana Inciardi, the machine is the first of its kind at a winery in the U.S., according to press materials. Passersby can collect surprise linocut prints inspired by wine and food, chosen by the quarter-operated machine reminiscent of ones that spit out temporary tattoos. Over the past few years, Inciardi has installed hundreds of mini art vending machines across the country.

“We’re excited to offer our guests another tactile, creative way to engage with the estate,” winery co-founder Matt Murphy said in press materials. “The Inciardi machine is playful, thoughtful, and very much aligned with how we think about hospitality.” Inciardi offers artwork tied to the Santa Maria Valley’s landscape and culture, giving visitors a reason to return to Presqu’ile each season to collect new designs.

Find the art vending machine at the Presqu’ile Winery tasting room, located at 5391 Presqu’ile Drive in Santa Maria. The winery is open on weekends from 12 to 5 p.m. but closed on Tuesdays. Weekend hours are from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Find more information online at presquilewine.com or by calling (805) 937-8110. m

Click of a button

A Lompoc photographer wants to capture all of life’s special moments

BY MADISON WHITE

The Central Coast is darn close to a photographer’s dream setting, so scouting locations is one of the most fun parts of the job for Amanda Booker.

“I just love this area. There’s so much to offer,” she said. “Basically anything a client envisions, you can find here.”

The Lompoc resident offers photo shoots on the beach, in the hills, and amid rolling vineyards. Not to mention hidden spots in city parks and empty fields.

January marked one year since she made the move to start her own photography business, Amanda Booker Photography, capturing moments for families and small businesses.

The passion began with borrowing her mom’s digital camera, one that Booker has kept to this day. She fell in love with the hobby in high school when she took a film photography class and learned how to develop pictures in the darkroom.

“I just loved not knowing what it would look like,” Booker said. “Then you can start to see it, play around with it. I just thought that was such a cool thing, and I loved that process.”

In pursuit of a more stable career as a young adult, Booker studied business in her native New Jersey, finding work in market research and data analytics. A year ago, she switched paths to professional photography, her childhood dream. The new career allows her to make her own schedule and spend time with her two children.

At first, her biggest concern was losing the joy of photography when it became her job. Grabbing her camera has always been a method to relieve stress and get through hard times.

Booker and her family currently live on Vandenberg Space Force Base, but before that she lived in Colorado. Walking her dog at the nearby reservoir and taking pictures always put her in a better mood.

“I decided to go for it so I wouldn’t have any regrets later,” the photographer said about her professional life.

The risk has paid off. She’s able to separate her hobby from her work, dedicating time in nature to take landscape pictures for fun and scheduling sessions with clients for work.

The business owner started out booking friends and family for shoots, slowly getting her name out through social media and word of mouth. Booker photographs events, small businesses, families, individuals, and couples.

Love birds can schedule shoots for engagements, elopements, proposals, vow renewals, and courtroom weddings. Booker finds romantic backdrops in beaches and vineyards. Open areas are key, so she can play with the spacing of shots from near and far away. It also gives the couple room to get comfortable in front of the camera.

Posing can be great, but candid shots are arguably more personalized. Booker kick-starts them with a little bit of movement, like asking the duo to walk to another spot.

“One time that happened … she climbed on his back, and I just loved that natural moment,” Booker said. “I got a bunch of pictures of them just playing around like that. … I don’t try to force it.”

To build trust, the photographer quiets down and allows couples to focus on connecting with each other. Then, she captures those special moments that come once the awkwardness has gone.

“They kind of lean on each other to get over that,” Booker described. “I had a couple making inside jokes and laughing because one of them felt super

uncomfortable. Then after 15 minutes, she was fine.”

Another portion of Booker’s clientele is families. She has fun customizing sessions for each group, keeping the work exciting. After taking the pictures, Booker still has work to do. She’ll spend around 10 hours editing each shoot, usually in the mornings while her kids are at school. The photographer wants her clients to look and feel like themselves, so she edits the style to be natural and warm, removing any distractions.

“I’ll edit, and then I won’t send them out immediately because I want to take some time away to look at it again the next day,” she added, “and make sure I’m happy with it.” m

Staff Writer Madison White would much rather be behind the camera than in front of it. Reach her at mwhite@santamariasun.com.

Book Booker

Amanda Booker takes photos for couples, families, individuals, small businesses, and large events. Find more information on her website, amandabookerphotography99.mypixieset.com. Check out sample work from Amanda Booker Photography on Instagram @amandabookerphotography.

On the verge

Writer-director Mary Bronstein (Yeast) helms this story about Linda (Rose Byrne), a psychotherapist whose personal and professional responsibilities leave her on the brink of a nervous breakdown. In between work, she cares for her daughter (Delaney Quinn) who’s got a pediatric eating disorder requiring a feeding tube and daily hospital visits. Her ship captain husband, Charles (Christian Slater), is at sea and dismissive and unsupportive. Their apartment floods and becomes unlivable, forcing Linda and her daughter into a shabby motel run by snotty clerk Diana (Ivy Wolk), and James (A$AP Rocky), the motel superintendent. Linda’s own therapist (Conan O’Brien) is unhelpful and judgy. And Linda’s got a challenging client, Caroline (Danielle Macdonald), a new mother suffering from paranoia and postpartum anxiety. She’s overwhelmed. (113 min.)

is incredible here. You can feel her fraying and becoming increasingly brittle. The entire cast is good, but this is the Rose Byrne show, and she never lets up. It’s riveting. This also marks her very first Oscar nomination. She already took home the Golden Globe for this performance, but her fiercest Oscar competition may be Stone, who won for La La Land (2016) and Poor Things (2023) but also turned in an emotionally complex performance last year. We still need to watch the other films.

IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU

What’s it rated? R

What’s it worth, Anna? Full Price

Glen: Since this time of year is a bit of dumping ground for mediocre films in theaters, and because we missed some of the Oscar contenders like this one, we decided to look back at this October 2025 release since it’s now streaming, and it’s weird and wonderful. Lead actress Rose Byrne is nominated for a Best Actress Academy Award for it, and she’s in a very competitive field that includes Emma Stone from Bugonia, Jessie Buckley from Hamnet, Kate Hudson from Song Sung Blue, and Renate Reinsve in the Norwegian film Sentimental Value. Byrne

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

Where’s it showing? HBO Max

Anna: The film is shot in a very interesting way. While we hear and see slivers of Linda’s daughter, the focus is all on Byrne. Her angry husband is heard over the phone but never seen. She’s adrift and alone, staying in a crappy motel close to the children’s hospital where her daughter is getting treatment. The machines that keep her daughter alive whir and buzz all night long, and Linda turns to finding the bottom of a bottle of wine as her nightly escape. This isn’t a fun watch, but it certainly is a powerful one. Her mental state is about two shades darker than fried, and she can’t help but break down. Topped off with a daughter who is shrill and demanding, Linda’s maternal instincts have met their match. It is certainly a must-see, but come prepared. Glen: This is also a film that refuses to offer a tidy resolution, yet the non-ending is potent and visually arresting and does offer an unsettled kind of closure. Linda may be beat down, but she’s a fighter. As much as I admired and was wowed by Stone’s performance in Bugonia, I hope Byrne

UNFAMILIAR

What’s it rated? TV-MA When? 2026

Where’s it showing? Netflix

I’m generally not a fan of dubbed films or shows, so even though I was a little put off at first, this German series sucked me in. Created by Paul Coates, the story follows former intelligence agents Meret (Susanne Wolff) and Simon Schäfer (Felix Krammer) who now run a secret safe house in Berlin. They’re celebrating their daughter Nina’s (Maja Bons), 16th birthday when they get a call from an injured man needing their assistance.

They decide to take him in, but not all is as it seems. Soon, their cover is blown, they’re being pursued by Russian agents, secrets from their daughter’s past return, their marriage is under strain, and their entire world is imploding. Intelligently written, the series’ first episode gives us just enough of the couple’s story to set the hook while keeping us in the dark about their complicated past and the decisions that have defined them. The reveals from one episode to the next keep us engaged.

They’re both very capable operatives, and the action sequences and spycraft feel authentic. They’re also complicated, no-nonsense characters who harbor regrets but also swallow their emotions.

PAST IS PROLOGUE: Married ex-spies Meret (Susanne Wolff) and Simon Schäfer (Felix Krammer) find their past returned to haunt them, in Unfamiliar, streaming on Netflix.

episodes)

takes an Oscar home. The prolific Australian actor has done a lot of amazing work in her long career, and I think she’s due. Plus, Stone’s got two Oscars already. We’ll see what the Academy decides. With four nominations, there’s more buzz around Bugonia than this film, but If I Had Legs is worth the watch for Byrne’s incredible performance.

Anna: Both films are difficult to watch in their own way, and both actresses deserve every

THE INVESTIGATION OF LUCY LETBY

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2026

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Lucy Letby was a young neonatal nurse when she began at Countess of Chester Hospital in 2012. Her whole career focused on the care of the youngest and most vulnerable patients. However, in subsequent years, the hospital saw an unexplained rise in infant mortalities and collapses, and all the cases had one thing in common: Lucy.

This documentary shows footage of Lucy on the day that she is first taken in for questioning, the police coming to her home and rousing her from bed to come with them. We see her interviews with the police, her reluctant words of denial at what she is accused of. We also see interviews with parents of the children she murdered while they were in her care—through insulin poisoning or by introducing air into their bloodstream causing embolisms.

It’s a reminder that looking innocent and being young can be a deadly cover for vile acts. Lucy was sentenced in 2020 and will spend her life in prison. Unsettling and infuriating, this is just the type of watch to make you wary of those who are supposed to care for us. Just remember that most caregivers are in the field to do no harm, despite cases like Lucy’s. (92 min.) m

accolade they’re getting. I find Byrne’s Linda to be relatable in the most heartbreaking of ways, whereas Stone’s character in Bugonia is an icy better-than. Messy, unsure, overtaxed, Linda’s an unwilling participant in a marathon. I’ll also be rooting for Byrne to take home that gold statue. m

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

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Scan the QR code to download the app or book online $2.00 per mile

mwhite@santamariasun.com.

Frosted fun

Orcutt Bakery calls dibs on the dessert table

BY MADISON WHITE

After Danielle and Shawn Gerber spend hours baking and decorating a cake, they must safely transport it to its destination.

For Central Coast parties from Santa Ynez to San Luis Obispo, that often means a scenic barn or vineyard, creating their biggest delivery challenge—the road less traveled.

“We don’t love delivering off paved roads,” Danielle said with a laugh. She stood behind the counter of her and her husband’s business, Orcutt Bakery, one February afternoon while Shawn was busy in the kitchen making cheesecake. In addition to an array of cheesecakes, their dessert counter also held cupcakes, cookies, lemon bars, and cake pops.

For the past 11 years, the couple has owned and operated Orcutt Bakery, but this is the first time in Danielle’s recent memory that life is back to normal after a battle with breast cancer. The baker wants her community to know that even though she never stopped working, she’s feeling herself again.

“The last couple of years, we’ve just been surviving,” Danielle said. “We’re ready to get back to what we do best.”

Orcutt Bakery is known to create custom cakes for parties and weddings. Shawn is the baker and Danielle decorates. Though cakes now make up a large portion of their business, making cookies was Danielle’s introduction to the industry.

She has early memories baking at her grandmother’s house in Orcutt, a short drive from where she was raised in Nipomo. Danielle baked a lot for her family, too, even bringing

For any occasion

The Gerbers deliver from San Luis Obispo to the Santa

Place online orders for Orcutt Bakery goods by visiting orcuttbakery.com. Call (805) 938-9140 with questions, and see the treats for yourself at 4869 S. Bradley Road, suite 112, in Orcutt.

cookies to her friends at school. Eventually, the business owner began baking wedding cakes for her friends.

“My grandmother really loved to bake, and so we would have baking days,” Danielle said. “I’d go over and hang out with her, and we’d bake something new. She got to pass on her love of baking to me.”

Now, her grandmother is the one asking for advice.

Danielle took the leap to go back to school and study food science at Allan Hancock College. She and her classmates put their skills to the test during labs held in a kitchen that looked like the set of Top Chef, the baker remembered.

Shawn took culinary classes at Hancock too, and he has always specialized in cooking. His wife said he learned how to bake specifically for their business, having grown tired of working for other people. The art of cooking is different than the science of baking, but Shawn quickly caught on.

“The first wedding cake that he was helping me with, he put powdered sugar instead of flour, so he learned real quick that you have to pay attention,” Danielle said.

The team works together, sometimes spending eight hours on a custom cake. During wedding season, they take as many orders as Shawn and his oven can manage.

“It gets kind of crazy,” Danielle said.

While taste is always the top priority, Danielle has fun decorating the designs by hand. Recently, her more elaborate cake creations have featured themes of Hello Kitty and KPop Demon Hunters, after the hit movie.

The baker also admires the simplicity of “naked” cakes, with the layers exposed, held together ever so slightly with frosting. The aesthetic is fitting for a lot of weddings.

Ahead of the big day, Danielle’s main piece of advice to couples for their cake is that less is more. She sends them home with a tasting flight, suggesting they choose two or three flavors.

The most popular cakes she and Shawn offer are red velvet, chocolate, and, to their surprise, coconut.

“One of my friends from high school was adamant, like, ‘Don’t even put coconut. We’re not doing it,’” Danielle remembered about his tasting. “Then he ordered the whole cake in coconut. He loved it.”

Along with frosted slices, Shawn and Danielle style wedding dessert tables with mini versions of their cookies, cheesecakes, and lemon bars. Sometimes they throw cake pops in the mix, too.

Custom cakes require four or five days’ notice, and wedding cakes are best ordered a few months in advance. Shawn bakes every day, though, constantly stocking the storefront with triple chocolate, carrot, and chocolate strawberry cakes.

Orcutt Bakery’s goods aim to bring joy to everyone—and the bakers literally deliver that joy, preferably on paved roads—whether it’s a wedding day, birthday, or a regular weekday. m

Staff Writer Madison White enjoys the bakery’s raspberry cheesecake. Send another slice to mwhite@ santamariasun.com.