Sun, January 29, 2026

Dollars dispute

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Del Cielo Mobile Estates recently proposed a $39 rent increase for residents tied to an ongoing lawsuit. The park owner sued Santa Barbara County for adopting an ordinance to prevent the community and others like it from being converted from a 55-and-over park to an all-ages one. Park residents fought the proposed rent increase, which went before a county arbitrator on Jan. 21. The arbitrator questioned whether legal costs could be considered an operating expense. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood covers the hearing [5]

Also, read about what the Santa Maria City Council is doing about increased immigration enforcement [3]; a Buellton clay studio that welcomes the community [14]; and a SLO County winery in Solvang [17]

• U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California) and Cory Booker (D-New Jersey) announced new legislation on Jan. 26 to enforce new restrictions on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) detention practices. The Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act would restrict the use of private, for-profit detention facilities, ensure due process for detained individuals, and prohibit the practice of detaining families, according to Padilla’s office. “As Republicans funnel tens of billions to ICE and CBP, we need to bring back oversight and accountability to the federal detention system, while restoring the right to legal counsel and due process, ending family detention, and raising detention standards,” Padilla stated. “Our bill would finally stop private, for-profit detention centers from lining their pockets by advancing Donald Trump’s cruel mass deportation campaign at the expense of our communities and economy.” Padilla recently visited California’s largest detention center, located in California City. “I saw firsthand in California City the appalling, inhumane conditions that detained individuals are facing at for-profit facilities as detentions reach record levels,” he stated. “I met with countless people who were injured while being detained or whose basic medical needs are not being met—including a mother who was denied access to her medication to manage her diabetes and received no treatment after ICE grabbed her by the neck.” The Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act’s co-sponsors include U.S. Sens. Andy Kim (D-New Jersey), Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont), Peter Welch (D-Vermont), and Ron Wyden (D-Oregon).

• On Jan. 23, the California Police Chiefs Association (CPCA) announced its dual endorsement of U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Castro Valley) and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco in the Democratic and Republican primaries, respectively, for governor of California. CPCA described both candidates as having “strong public safety credentials.” The dual endorsement reflects the association’s focus to inform voters on candidates’ platforms on crime, victim protection, and community safety, rather than their party affiliations, according to press materials. “Our endorsement is not about politics. It is about ensuring voters understand which candidates in each major party have demonstrated a commitment to public safety and effective law enforcement,” CPCA President Jason Salazar said in a statement. A former Alameda County prosecutor raised in a law enforcement family, U.S. Rep. Swalwell “has emphasized community safety as a central priority of his campaign,” CPCA stated. In his campaign for governor, Riverside County Sheriff Bianco focuses on platforms related to victim protection and crime reduction.

• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) recently joined other Democratic members of the House Agriculture Committee to introduce the Farm and Family Relief Act, a bill to assist struggling family farmers and safeguard food benefits for low-income Americans. Carbajal described the bill as a response to the Trump administration’s cost shift in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). “Trump’s erratic policies are impacting our food system from start to finish,” Carbajal said in a Jan. 22 statement. “His tariffs are bankrupting family farmers while raising costs at the grocery store. His ‘big ugly bill’ is creating unprecedented chaos within the SNAP food assistance program, leading to reduced food security for millions of households.” In November 2025, the American Farm Bureau Federation estimated that U.S. farmers have accumulated more than $50 billion in losses across the last three crop years, with the 2025-26 crop year showing the steepest loss at $28 billion, influenced by Trump’s tariffs, according to Carbajal’s office. “The Farm and Family Relief Act offers a clear path forward by providing a lifeline to the farmers and families bearing the brunt of these misguided decisions,” Carbajal stated. m

SOLIDARITY IN SANTA MARIA: On Jan. 15, community members marched on McClelland Street and other parts of Santa Maria to protest local Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. Some of the rally’s participants also voiced their frustration with ICE activity before members of the Santa Maria City Council on Jan. 20.

Santa Maria to formalize ‘a clear message that we do stand with immigrants’

With one hand holding onto a cardboard cutout of a silhouetted body, Jeanne Sparks told the Santa Maria City Council she doesn’t want to see local officials stand idly by while Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations escalate.

“We can’t let them do to our community what they have done elsewhere,” Sparks said at the council’s Jan. 20 meeting. “ICE is out of control. They use excessive force. … They arrest people without warrants, including citizens.”

Propped up next to Sparks, at the public comment podium, was the silhouetted cutout, with the words, “She was good,” written on the figure’s chest. Splattered red paint was at the center of its head.

“Renée Good was recently killed by an ICE agent in Minnesota. She was a peaceful protester,” Sparks said. “You could tell from the way her wheels were turned that she was not trying to hit the ICE agent, but he shot her anyway. Four times.”

Sparks was among several speakers during public comment for non-agenda items who urged the council to establish an ad hoc committee dedicated to collecting information about local ICE activity and promoting new initiatives to increase protections for immigrants.

Like Sparks, public commenter Michelle Ambriz asked the council not to wait until someone in Santa Maria dies “under the untrained hands of ICE agents.”

“How much more loss does our community need to face until you take action?” asked Ambriz, a volunteer for 805 UndocuFund’s Rapid Response Network. “As of yesterday, there have been 1,475 kidnappings within our region—with 373 of those happening here in Santa Maria.”

Santa Maria City Councilmember Carlos Escobedo asked Ambriz where she got those numbers from because he had heard inconsistent totals between from other community members. Ambriz told him that her tallies came from 805 UndocuFund’s Rapid Response Network.

Other speakers who advocated for more protections for immigrants at the hearing included Pam Gates, a representative of Indivisible Santa Maria. Five days prior, Gates was a featured speaker during Jan. 15’s ICE Out of 805 march in Santa Maria.

“The time is now for the City Council and all city officials to … take a firm stance against the arrests happening every day in the city limits,” Gates said at the Jan. 20 meeting.

After Mayor Alice Patino closed public comment, Councilmember Maribel Aguilera turned her mic on.

“I would like to request, from the mayor, if we can put on the agenda … a resolution or a proclamation—just like Guadalupe, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Barbara has done—so that we can send a clear message that we do stand with immigrants,” Aguilera said. “My parents are immigrants. I personally picked strawberries as a child. I worked in the fields. I think a lot of us are feeling really fearful of what’s going on, as a lot of comments have been made.”

Patino directed the question to city staff. City Manager David Rowlands said that he can spearhead drafting a resolution for the council to review at a future hearing.

After Aguilera’s proposal prompted some applause from audience members, Councilmember Gloria Soto voiced her desire to amend it.

“My only request would be that it’s more than just a resolution in support, that we look to include language in there that can ensure the safety of residents,” Soto said, “including language around our local law enforcement not aiding in any federal raids.”

Aguilera agreed with Soto’s suggestion.

Mayor Patino said, “right now, our Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws or take part in immigration or enforcement operations.”

“We don’t know if they’re coming; when they’re coming,” Patino continued. “We have no control over them at all.”

—Caleb Wiseblood

SLO County man sues Grover Beach, Santa Maria over alleged police misconduct

A San Luis Obispo County resident sued the cities of Grover Beach and Santa Maria, alleging that their police departments colluded to protect an officer with a reported history of misconduct.

In his April 2025 lawsuit, SLO resident Casey Johnston claimed that Santa Maria police officer Jason Zickuhr “assaulted” him using a firearm

after an unexplained incident in SLO County in March 2024. Zickuhr allegedly wasn’t on duty during the incident and was carrying a firearm on his person and in his vehicle.

According to the complaint, which didn’t detail the incident or specify exactly what happened, he then abused his position as a law enforcement officer to intimidate and threaten Johnston.

“The city of Santa Maria and its agent Santa Maria Police Department have been and were aware of previous use of force, … threats, and excessive anger involving Officer Zickuhr prior to an incident involving the plaintiff in March 2024,” the complaint said. “Despite being made aware of these problems with Officer Zickuhr, the city of Santa Maria has continued to employ Officer Zickuhr as a law enforcement officer.”

A case management conference is scheduled for Jan. 26.

Santa Maria’s city attorney declined to comment due to the active litigation.

Johnston’s complaint said that he reported the alleged assault to the Grover Beach Police Department, which began investigating the incident. He claimed the investigation stopped when the department learned that the accused assailant was another police officer.

For weeks after, Johnston said Grover Beach police withheld a copy of its police report, claiming the Santa Maria Police Department had started its own investigation. He questioned Santa Maria’s jurisdiction over the matter since the reported assault took place in SLO County. Grover Beach Police Chief Jim Munro told the Sun he couldn’t comment on pending litigation. He added that the department gave Johnston a copy of the report after the incident occurred.

“Plaintiff believes that Santa Maria never took over or produced a criminal investigation, and only conducted an internal investigation once plaintiff filed a complaint with Santa Maria Police Department on Sept. 5, 2024,” the complaint said. In October 2024, according to the lawsuit, then Santa Maria Police Chief Marc Schneider allegedly wrote in a letter to Johnston that Zickuhr’s use of the firearm was “in policy” and that the department took “appropriate administrative action.”

Johnston’s lawsuit claims that Schneider didn’t specify what the administrative action was. The suit alleges that a few days later, Johnston saw Zickuhr drive by his home.

“Plaintiff believes that this drive-by was done by Zickuhr to illustrate to plaintiff that Zickuhr knew where he lived and to intimidate, harass, and threaten plaintiff in a deliberate manner once the investigation was closed,” the complaint said.

Santa Maria and Grover Beach aren’t the only entities Johnston’s leveled lawsuits against.

In 2019, Johnston, through his business Casey Johnston Construction Inc., sued clients Eric and Jacqueline Blair for allegedly ceasing to pay the full cost of labor, services, materials, and equipment for an interior remodel. The Blairs reportedly shorted Johnston’s constructed company roughly $40,000 on a more than $350,000 total bill.

In 2020, Casey Johnston Construction Inc. filed a lawsuit against Sextant Wines proprietors Craig and Nancy Stoller for similar reasons. The complaint said that the Stollers only paid about $1.2 million of a $1.3 million interior and exterior remodel bill.

Both lawsuits were dismissed with prejudice,

meaning they’re permanently closed, and Casey Johnston Construction Inc. can’t refile the same claims again.

Johnston and his attorney didn’t respond to the Sun’s requests for comment.

—Bulbul Rajagopal

Solvang targets ‘derelict’ news racks with tighter code enforcement

Whether the perpetrators realized they were littering or not, too many people have treated Solvang’s newspaper racks like trash bins in recent years, City Manager Randy Murphy told elected officials.

“They were attracting nuisance. People were leaving their garbage in them, and on them,” Murphy said at the Solvang City Council’s Jan. 26 meeting. “The news racks we had were old and derelict. They were covered in graffiti, and/ or stickers.”

That evening, the council adopted a new ordinance with hopes of ensuring better newspaper rack upkeep, partly by shortening the permits granted to carriers of newspaper vending machines on public property from five years to one year, before requiring a renewal.

This update also replaces the city’s former newspaper permitting program, unaltered since 1998.

In October 2024, Solvang city staff informed the council that, during a fee program consultation, it came to staffers’ attention that the city had not enforced its newspaper rack permit policy since 2017. Out of 16 different publications staff observed around town, only six were permitted.

Complaints from the public describing news racks in Solvang as eyesores also stacked up

prior to staff’s work on increasing enforcement, Murphy said at the January hearing.

“We’ve been working at this pretty much since I started,” Murphy said. “Local businesses complained. But our ordinance didn’t allow us really to do much. This is an opportunity to clean that up, to get the news racks compliant. And if not, it gives us the tools necessary to remove them.”

The new ordinance outlines a 10-day warning notice and removal process for news racks that fall out of compliance— including by not being “maintained in a clean and neat condition and in good repair at all times”—that’s under the Public Works Department’s jurisdiction, according to the staff report.

“We’ve made the sections clearer so the process for removing unpermitted news racks is clearer and modernized, and made some clean-up edits,” City Attorney Chelsea O’Sullivan said. “For example, the old ordinance—or current ordinance, I should say—inconsistently refers to the planning manager and the public works director as administering the news rack program. So this ordinance cleans that up. It’s clearly in the Public Works Department.”

Councilmember Elizabeth Orona motioned to adopt the policy update—approved with a 5-0 vote—on a first reading.

On the littering issue addressed in the ordinance, O’Sullivan noted during the hearing that there’s language about installation that will require news racks to be of a certain A-frame model, “so it won’t have a flat spot for people to just absentmindedly put their coffee cup on.”

“Hopefully that will solve that problem without having too many maintenance issues,” O’Sullivan said. m

—Caleb Wiseblood

Passing the bucks

Del Cielo Mobile Estates residents petition against rent increase via county arbitration

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

Two attorneys. Seven witnesses. Eight hours of cross examination. Those with stakes in a recent arbitration hearing’s outcome will probably not hear Santa Barbara County’s verdict on a rent dispute between an Orcutt mobile home park’s ownership and residents until April.

One consolation for attendees of the Jan. 21 proceeding was the arbitrator’s closing commentary, heard around 5:30 p.m. While a handful of audience members trickled in and out throughout the day, at least a dozen had kept their seats since 9 a.m.

“Anything I do say today is going to be a tentative view,” arbitrator John Derrick said via Zoom, shared on multiple screens inside Santa Maria’s Betteravia Government Center, where the county Board of Supervisors regularly meets.

“I am concerned with potentially allowing hundreds of thousands of dollars of legal fees to be an operating expense, to be passed on to the tenants,” the arbitrator said.

Derrick was referring to a table of operating expenses Harmony Communities, Del Cielo’s property manager, used to calculate a $39 monthly rent increase—initially set to be implemented this year—for residents of Del Cielo Mobile Estates, a 55-and-over community in Orcutt with about 180 units.

Among the listed operating expenses were legal fees from 2025 tied to Del Cielo owners’ ongoing lawsuit against Santa Barbara County for adopting a senior overlay zoning ordinance, intended to protect the community from being converted into an all-ages park.

Tasked with weighing the proposed $39 rent increase against standards laid out in a much older county ordinance on mobile home rent control, Derrick was hesitant to agree with Harmony Communities’ classification of fees related to the lawsuit as operating expenses.

“On the legal fees, I’ll share with you that I am concerned with the potential implication of

allowing that as an operating expense because this could lead to monumental increases going forward,” Derrick said. “There’s surely a difference conceptually between, … a detainer action for an eviction, on one hand, which is intrinsic to the operation of a park, versus a lawsuit about what type of park this should be, which has to do with increasing the value of the asset to the owners.”

Earlier in the hearing, Derrick questioned accountant Brian Eid, one of Harmony Communities’ witnesses who testified during the hearing and presented the property management company’s expense report, if the tenants of Del Cielo residents should be “on the hook” for a lawsuit—between Del Cielo’s owners and the county—they are not active parties in.

“Is it an operating cost of the park, or is it an operating cost of the entity that happens to own the park?” Derrick asked. “It’s a key point because the park is not a party in the lawsuit. The entity that owns the park is. In what way is the lawsuit an activity of the park?”

“It has come about as a result of operating the park,” Eid replied, “[to determine] whether it’s being operated as a senior or an all-age park.”

“So, if this litigation took on a life of its own and cost several hundred thousand dollars, are you saying that all of this could be passed on in future rent increases?” Derrick asked Eid. “Are you basically saying that, one way or another, management can reclaim all of its legal fees for litigating this issue with the county?”

Based on the company’s classification of legal fees as operating expenses, Eid said that Del Cielo’s owners could justify continuing to recoup those costs from rent increases, possibly “in more of a temporary rent increase, over some period of years.”

In his tentative comments, Derrick said he worried that the justification route would set a precedent that doesn’t align with Santa Barbara County’s current mobile home rent control rules,

but he welcomed any objections from Del Cielo park owners’ attorney Jason Dilday in closing arguments, set for review in late February.

Sue DeWeese, 16-year resident of Del Cielo and president of the park’s residents association, echoed the arbitrator’s concerns in an interview with the Sun.

“That’s their battle. Why are we involved?” DeWeese said. “It’s not fair because we’re not even part of it. We didn’t go after the county.”

DeWeese and many Del Cielo residents have been at odds with Harmony since May 2024, when tenants were given a six-month notice of plans to convert Del Cielo into an all-ages community. Later that year, residents spoke up about the issue in front of the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors, which ultimately triggered the senior zoning overlay.

When property manager Harmony Communities notified Del Cielo residents of the $39 increase in October 2025, DeWeese said that she and other tenants teamed up to collect signatures—and donations toward anticipated attorney fees—and completed the paperwork needed to petition for a county arbitration.

“A lot of us seniors are on fixed incomes from 20 to 25 years ago,” said DeWeese, who worked toward petitioning against a separate $57 rent increase in 2025 but did not complete the arbitration application process within the county’s codified deadline.

According to DeWeese, the $57 add-on was partly based on an increase in property tax when Del Cielo park’s ownership changed in 2024. DeWeese has lived at the park since the early 2000s.

“We had never had an increase in this park, ever, except for the CPI rate,” said DeWeese, who currently pays $518 per month for rent.

“When I moved here 16 years ago, it was only $351.”

Arbitrator Derrick will finalize his decision on the proposed rent increase in early April, Santa Barbara County Real Property Division Manager Cody Bowden told the Sun via email.

“Either party may petition to the Board of Supervisors at that point,” Bowden said. m Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@santamariasun.com

FETCH BETTER BEHAVIOR

effective dog training right here in Santa Maria! Group classes and private classes available. Enroll today at sbhumane.org/training

Dune buddies

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center kicks off its 2026 membership drive, seeks volunteer docents and gardeners

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

The perks of lending the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center a helping hand can appeal to folks from pretty much all walks of life, Outreach Coordinator Saule Baipsys explained.

“There is really a place for everyone if you are willing to learn and grow,” Baipsys told the Sun via email.

For example, the prerequisites to apply for a volunteer hike docent role—responsible for leading community group hikes and walks on a regular basis—are simply to enjoy hiking and be “ready to learn,” Baipsys said.

Just dune it

Having knowledge in local native flora and fauna and natural history can help land the role but isn’t required.

year-round, as well as applicants to join the nonprofit either as volunteers or paid staffers.

“All our staff are also fully trained and love to step into the docent roles when the opportunity arises,” Baipsys said.

As for longtime volunteers with the Dunes Center who have consistently donated their time and energy over the years, Baipsys said that three individuals come to mind: Ray Segovia and Carole and Fred Schroader.

“Ray leads most of our community hikes and … has this infectious love for the land and the people who’ve inhabited it,” Baipsys said. “Carole and her husband, Fred, manage our gorgeous native plant garden. … This includes the pond we have as well as our resident cats who live in the garden.”

To get involved at the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center as a volunteer or join as a member, visit dunescenter.org or call (805) 343-2455. The current membership drive runs through February and includes chances to win prizes.

“We train all our docents from the very beginning, so everyone is welcome to join,” Baipsys said. “We currently have eight trained volunteer docents that lead these types of trips, either for private groups or even for school field trips.

The Dunes Center is located at 1065 Guadalupe St. in Guadalupe.

“If hiking isn’t for you, we also train docents to give tours at our museum, help in the classroom, or tend to our native plant garden,” Baipsys added.

While helping out in the Dunes Center’s garden comes with an extra incentive for animal lovers—as the garden’s inhabitants include two resident cats, Grumpy and Tiger—other rewarding experiences await the winners of an ongoing raffle in conjunction with the nonprofit’s 2026 membership drive.

The program kicked off on Jan. 12 and encourages the public to commit to monthly recurring donations that support the Dunes Center. New members who sign up before Feb. 28 are automatically entered into a raffle with gift certificates up to $1,000 in value.

Those who register to donate $10 a month will be eligible to win a $100 gift card from one of five participating restaurants, while donors who commit to the $20 per month plan have a chance at winning gift cards that range between $500 and $1,000 from the Hitching Post, Presqu’ile Winery, or SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel.

Outside of the ongoing membership drive, the Dunes Center welcomes new donors

The nonprofit is currently seeking additional volunteer support to help with the garden’s upkeep.

“Maintaining this native plant garden is truly a labor of love. … We currently have around four volunteers who help in some capacity with the native plant garden, but the lead is Carole, who oversees the general management,” Baipsys said.

“There are no prerequisites for helping in this way, and we are always looking for more people who have a special interest in native plants who can help with the day-to-day management.

“This garden isn’t just ornamental,” Baipsys added. “[It’s] used for science programming to discuss botany, pollination, and habitats.”

Highlights

• The American Legion Auxiliary Post 534 in Orcutt is set to host its next pancake breakfast on Sunday, Feb. 1, from 9 a.m. to noon. Admission is $15, which includes all-you-caneat pancakes. Proceeds benefit local veterans, active military, and their families. The post is located at 145 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

• In mid-January, Lompoc Police Department

Sgt. Sergio Arias graduated from an eightmonth Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute program in Del Mar. Originally implemented in 1988, the program’s curriculum was designed for law enforcement frontline supervisors seeking to enhance their management, planning, and leadership skills. m

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

What should happen with the Plenty on Bell eviction lawsuit?

50% The judge should throw the lawsuit out.

33% The owner should drop the suit.

17% The restaurant should pay what it owes.

0% The restaurant should be evicted. 6 Votes Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

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Peaceful assembly

Express support of or opposition to recent government actions with respect, not violence

BY JOHN T. SAVRNOCH

The violent death of Renee Good is the tragedy that I feared and that no one wanted to see happen. The fact her death occurred half a country away on the snow-covered streets of Minnesota does not lessen the impact and the sadness surrounding the loss of a mother of three to those of us in California. It is the type of violence and tragedy that I do not want to see repeated here in Santa Barbara County—or anywhere else.

To be clear, my purpose in writing this is to mourn the violence that has occurred and to offer concern for the safety of protesters, immigrants, and law enforcement officers at the local, state, and federal level. I care about all of the above and do not want to see anybody get injured or killed. It is my fear that the militarized and quotabased immigration enforcement actions will heighten fear, anger, and resentment to the point that it will lead to more violence. It is not my purpose in writing this to pass judgement on whether the shooting in Minnesota that claimed Renee Good’s life was legally justifiable or not (either way it is a tragedy). I do not possess the facts, nor do I have access to the investigative files that would be necessary to make an informed decision. Shooting scenes are chaotic, and it is irresponsible for government officials to comment and make judgements before all facts are known. That is why it was disturbing to hear the chief executive and a cabinet secretary make conclusory statements about the shooting,

It

the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and the decedent before any substantive investigation could possibly have been concluded.

This was compounded by the vice president making specious claims about the level of immunity possessed by federal agents. It is the lack of acknowledgement even of the possibility of mistakes being made that is concerning.

Government and government agents are not infallible. Any government that holds itself out as infallible, and seeks to suppress those who point out its fallibility, is seeking to oppress in ways that cannot be tolerated in our constitutional democracy.

It is my hope that Santa Barbara County can be a place of safety, even as tensions continue to grow. That is not to say that I expect, or am asking, that people do not vociferously express their opposition to—or support of—the current government actions. I am just asking that any demonstrations do not involve violence and are conducted in accordance with our constitutional right to peaceful assembly.

my fear that the militarized and quota-based immigration enforcement actions will heighten fear, anger, and resentment to the point that it will lead to more violence. Speak

To those who support the current administration and its immigration enforcement policies—I support wholeheartedly your right to do so. I understand that you disagree with my opposition to large paramilitary forces populating the streets of the cities of this great nation. I just ask that you do not extrapolate from my opposition a lack of concern for the rule of law or the safety of all law enforcement officers. I have

spent the last approximately 34 years of my life imposing consequences for failing to follow the law and being proud each and every day for the opportunity to do so alongside the brave and devoted members of all law enforcement agencies. Lawful orders and warrants must be obeyed, and anyone harming or threatening law enforcement officials will be held accountable. To those who see the current policies of the executive branch as an existential threat to the very foundation of our nation—I understand and respect your right to oppose the actions and policies of the government, within the law. I also understand those who are calling on all government officials and citizens to do more. I just ask that you understand that I have not abandoned hope in the systems and structures of this great democracy and of the American people to ultimately choose hope and caring and reject hate, violence, and vindictiveness. m

John T. Savrnoch is the Santa Barbara County district attorney. Send a letter for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.

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It’s time to stand up to the bully

Like a big, out-of-control bully, America strides across the world, making enemies wherever it goes, acting as if there will be no consequences. Both our president and our country are behaving like spoiled children, demanding whatever they want and giving nothing in return. They claim the world is theirs by divine right, and the president’s morality is our gold standard. Our leaders insult the fathers and mothers, grandfathers and grandmothers who fought and suffered in two wars for the freedoms we have. They denigrate NATO and the promise it has kept to its members all these years. The president denies that international law is binding on him or on our country.

Americans know right from wrong. Our parents and teachers helped us with that. We learned how to play together, then work together as adults, based on mutual respect and the fact that we all depend on each other. We know that hurting anyone on purpose is morally wrong and that it will come back to hurt us.

Americans are a good and moral people. So how can we accept leaders who are neither good nor moral, leaders who break all 10 commandments openly and don’t fear punishment by their God or country? Do we live in a world where there are no consequences for evil behavior? Can we applaud the words and actions of our president and his minions while they destroy our country and our position in the world?

Americans have come to a crossroads. Will we allow our president and his administration to continue their reign of violence, creating fear in our streets? Will we allow him to punish other countries for not doing his bidding? Will we allow America to steal what the president claims is ours from countries who cannot fight back? If we do, are we not guilty of the same crimes and liable for the punishment and destruction that is bound to follow?

This is our moment of truth. I believe we are brave enough to join together, stand up, and say no! We cannot wait any longer. The time has come!

CASA IS GOING

The Santa Maria City Council finally decided to weigh in on immigration enforcement activities, symbolically.

At the Jan. 20 council meeting, Councilmember Maribel Aguilera got to business before Councilmember Gloria Soto could even turn her mic on, requesting that the mayor put a resolution or proclamation on the agenda to send a “clear message that we do stand with immigrants.”

Aguilera’s campaign for county supervisor is in full force!

“My parents are immigrants. I personally picked strawberries as a child. I worked in the fields. I think a lot of us are feeling really fearful of what’s going on,” she said.

Lompoc made a proclamation in support of immigrants early last year. What finally pushed Santa Maria to do something? Was it the increased immigration arrests in Santa Maria around Christmas? Is it what’s happening in Minneapolis? Or is it Aguilera’s run for higher office?

Either way, Soto was probably miffed that she wasn’t the one who got to make the ask! Especially since she spoke about it during a press conference in early January about the uptick in arrests.

Soto quickly piggybacked on Aguilera, adding that the city could do more, asking that they “include language in there that can ensure the safety of residents.” That’s a big ask, considering that even a gigantic city with more resources can’t guarantee the safety of its residents, when ICE officers behave like renegades.

Mayor Alice Patino made the comments she almost always makes when the issue comes up: “Our police department does not enforce federal immigration laws or take part in immigration or enforcement operations.”

That’s very similar to what she said last spring when high school students marched to a City Council meeting asking for support from Santa Maria’s elected officials. Patino made her statement, Soto requested a resolution supporting what students were asking for, and everyone else was silent—including Aguilera. Patino is right, though. Local law enforcement in California is banned from participating in ICE activities. Not only that, cities and counties aren’t always notified beforehand, as the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office has told county 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps and her board colleagues.

“We don’t know if they’re coming; when they’re coming,” Patino said. “We have no control over them at all.”

Just like Del Cielo Mobile Estates residents have no control over whether their landlord sues the county over ordinances! The embattled residents rose up against their owner/manager/ whatever-you-want-to-call-it over a $39 rent increase tied to litigation against the county—legal fees that were classified as “operational” expenses. Del Cielo, pissed off because the county created a protective zone for senior mobile home parks in direct response to Del Cielo’s actions, sued the county over its ordinance to keep senior parks in those areas from becoming all-ages parks. Then, Del Cielo turned around and charged its seniors for the cost of the lawsuit.

That’s rich!

And it sort of seems like the county arbitrator thinks so as well.

“The park is not a party to the lawsuit. The entity that owns the park is. In what way is the lawsuit an activity of the park?” arbitrator John Derrick asked. m

Hot Stuff

NATURAL SCENTS

A Natural Perfume-Making Workshop in celebration of Valentine’s Day will be held on Sunday, Feb. 8, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the California Nature Art Museum in Solvang. Create custom fragrances from essential oils and learn the basics of perfume structure and formulation with Susan Farber, founder of Sol Aromatics. Admission is $150. Visit calnatureartmuseum.org for tickets and additional details.

—Angie Stevens

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.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: POST-WILD:

NATURE IN THE 21ST CENTURY This exhibition is dedicated to exploring how contemporary artists depict, interpret, or challenge the concept of nature in the current age. We are looking for works that evoke the spirit of the 21st century Through Feb. 15 Betteravia Art Gallery, 511 Lakeside Pkwy, 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. Klein Dance 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.

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

6-WEEK KIDS ART CLASS (AGES 7-12)

This class will explore new mediums each week with guidance so that each artist is free to create, express, and explore in their own, unique way. Wednesdays, 4-5:30 p.m. through Feb. 25 $285. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Art Spot on Wheels, 320 Alisal Road, unit 306B, Solvang.

ADULT ART WORKSHOP - ANIMAL PORTRAIT PAPER MOSAICS Plan and arrange your very own animal portrait with a variety of colorful and patterned paper options. Jan. 29, 9-11:30 a.m. $30. calnatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

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.

NATURAL PERFUME-MAKING WORKSHOP, VALENTINE’S DAY LOVE, ROSES An immersive, hands-on natural perfume-making workshop in celebration of Valentine’s Day. You’ll explore the rose— the flower of love—and create your own custom fragrance. Feb. 8 1-4 p.m. $150. calnatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang. WILD IN CALIFORNIA SOLO EXHIBITION

See the exhibition Wild in California, a solo exhibition by Museum Founder, conservation advocate, and artist Patti

Jacquemain. A array of woodcut prints and mosaics will be showcased, highlighting the bioregions and species that make up California’s rich biodiversity. Through Feb. 23 calnatureartmuseum.org/news/wildin-california-2025. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

WILLY WONKA JR Bellevue Santa Fe Charter School presents Willy Wonka JR. Jan. 31 , 2-3 & 7-8 p.m. $20. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA

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

WORLD BALLET COMPANY PRESENTS: SWAN LAKE World Ballet Company Presents: Swan Lake, the world’s most iconic ballet, live on stage. Feb. 5 7-9:30 p.m. and Feb. 6 7-9:30 p.m. $45-$95. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ANJELAH JOHNSON-REYES Anjelah Johnson-Reyes is one of the most successful stand-up comedians today with six comedy specials streaming on various platforms and selling out theaters across the world. Hear her at the Fremont! Feb. 6, 8 p.m. $44.78-$69.50. fremontslo.com. The Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-8600.

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

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.

Free. slocountyarts.org/art-after-dark. SLO County, Locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.

ARTIST RIKI SCHUMACHER AT ART CENTRAL GALLERY Schumacher’s work is pensive and introspective, inspiring one to take a solitary walk on a cloudy day. Wander in to reflect on her “delicious, wistful landscapes.” Mondays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/galleryartists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. (805) 7474200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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.

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, 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.

ONE DAY IMPROV FESTIVAL This will be one unforgettable day of improv play packed with learning, laughter, and connection! Jan. 31 , 9 a.m.-9 p.m. $28.62. my805tix.com. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-7300.

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.

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/ community/cuesta-arts/artgallery/20252026-Exhibitions/WebofLove.html.

Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo, (805) 546-3202.

SMANTHA NYE: WEB OF LOVE OPENING RECEPTION AND ARTIST TALK Join for the opening reception of Samantha Nye’s immersive video installation Web of Love, followed by an artist talk. Jan. 29 4:15-7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 546-3201. cuesta.edu.

Harold J. Miossi Gallery, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

SURF DREAMS: A MULTIMEDIA EXHIBIT OF SURF-INSPIRED ART AND MUSIC

Each image in this exhibit will have three surf-inspired songs which can be played on a smart phone by scanning the QR codes. Bring earbuds. Mondays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through Feb. 14 Free. (805) 543-4025. The Photo Shop, 1027 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo.

VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING

WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for

beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors. To enroll please contact Mack via email: vbmack@charter.net Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $35. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/ workshops-events/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. WHITNEY PINTELLO: SOLO SHOW On display now through mid-April. ongoing slogallery.com/. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

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

FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay. GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE PRESENTS ARDELLA SWANBERG: SMALL WORKS View paintings, books, assemblage and more, all inspired by life on the Central Coast, from Cayucos ranches to the Morro Bay harbor. Through Jan. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

JANUARY 2026 GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE FEATURED ARTISTS January is Bird Festival month in Morro Bay and Gallery at Marina Square is featuring two group shows in celebration of birds. In the Upper Gallery, “Wingborne” features group photography, and in the Lower Gallery, a selection of paintings are featured. Through Jan. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com/. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. (805) 772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

WEGROWSLO - REVISITED! AN

INVITATIONAL POTTERY, PLANT AND FINE ART SALE Four master ceramicists, a local plant vendor, and two visual artists are collaborating on a great one-day outdoor event! Browse pottery, plants, and fine art. Feb. 7 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 602-7817. Richard Rowe Clayworks, 387 Quintana, Morro Bay.

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.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

LOMPOC ART WALK Lompoc transforms into a celebration and showcase of local artists during this monthly event,

BEYOND WILD

Santa Maria’s Betteravia Art Gallery is seeking artwork for the newest exhibition, Post-Wild: Nature in the 21st Century, until Sunday, Feb. 15. The exhibition–which will open to the public in May–will explore how contemporary artists depict, interpret, or challenge the concept of nature in the current age, and how nature shapes the human experience. For more information, head to countyofsb.org.

—A.S.

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-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.

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

BASS & BLISS: CONSCIOUS DANCE & WELLNESS MICRO-FESTIVAL Bass and Bliss is a conscious, alcohol-free dance and wellness micro-festival on California’s Central Coast. Jan. 31 , 3-8 p.m. $25. eventbrite.com. Flying Caballos Ranch, 1150 Farmhouse Lane, San Luis Obispo, (805) 704-9634.

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, 5:306:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

BRING YOUR HOT FRIEND NIGHT (SINGLES MIXER FOR 25-35 YR OLDS)

Bring Your Hot Friend Night is a fun, flirty singles mixer and interactive stage show happening live during Brass Mash at Liquid Gravity. Hosted by Nevada Gibson, this night is all about connection, confidence, and good vibes — whether you’re straight, queer, or somewhere in between. Feb. 6 6-10 p.m. $22. my805tix.com. Liquid Gravity Brewing Company, 675 Clarion Ct., San Luis Obispo, (805) 457-4677.

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

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.

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 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

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

Live Webinar, online, SLO County. “WOOD WIDE WEBS” – INVISIBLE FOREST NETWORKS: MUSHROOM

DISCOVERY FRIDAY LECTURE Christian Schwarz, mushroom expert and author, will discuss “Wood Wide Webs” the invisible forest networks which trees, fungi ,and other organisms communicate and exchange resources. Jan. 30, 6:308:30 p.m. $25. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

BARS AND BOUNCE CLINIC Bars and Bounce is a sneakily fun workout! Build whole-body strength swinging on bars and bouncing on trampolines! No experience is necessary, for ages 5 to 17 years old. Feb. 7 1-3 p.m. $25. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com/ saturday-event-clinics. Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., 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, 9:3011:30 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. DANCE PARTY This is a Thursday event for classic rock and roll. Please put on your party shoes and “Let’s Dance”. Jan. 29 8-11:59 p.m. $15. my805tix.com. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-7300.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE continued page 11

Hot Stuff

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/deathcaf%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 Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15 p.m. Free. (805) 550-7713. missionslodocents.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK Walk and talk with Eve Vigil in the Botanical Garden each month on the first Wednesday. Free garden tour with paid admission to the Garden. Free for members. No need to RSVP, just show up and enjoy. First Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free with $5 Garden Entry. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.

GLASS SLIPPER ROYAL BALL You’re invited to step into a storybook afternoon where magic feels real, princes escort princesses, and your child becomes part of a royal celebration they’ll never forget. Join us for the Glass Slipper Royal Ball, an enchanting fairytale event held in the iconic Madonna Inn. Feb. 8 , 2:15-4 p.m. $35. my805tix.com. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna 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.

“JOYFUL RHYTHMS” DRUM CIRCLE / GALA

PRIDE SLO This event is open to the Gala Pride and Diversity community and allies - a safe, intentional, and inclusive space. The experience focuses on social connection, emotional release, and the grounding power of rhythm as tools to nurture social, emotional, and physical well-being from the inside out. Feb. 8 2-3:30 p.m. $17.91. my805tix.com. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.

LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY) 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) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.

MUSHROOM DISCOVERY WORKSHOP Enjoy

this two-day, hands-on mushroom workshop with expert Christian Schwarz featuring field exploration, sensory identification, small-group practice, and optional tastings, offering an immersive introduction to local fungi. Jan. 31 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Feb. 1 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $285. (805) 541-1400. slobg.org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd, San Luis Obispo.

Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/ events/. Online, See website, 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 outdoor class which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email before attending. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+ AA GROUP

(VIRTUALLY)

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) 540-6576. 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 nonconforming, 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.

MAIDEN TO CRONE SISTER CIRCLE Connect deeply with other women. Sharing the things that are close to our hearts creates a space of shared vulnerability that leads to deep connection. First Sunday of every month, 9-11 a.m. my805tix.com. From the Roots Up Healing Studio, 2055 9th St., Los Osos.

MOONSTRUCK: JOIN BEAUTIFY CAMBRIA

FOR SIDEWALK STARGAZING Sit with lunar scientist Dave Majors and view the brilliant moon, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Enjoy hot chocolate and celestial cookies. Jan. 31 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 927-1934. beautifycambria.org. Cambria Historical Museum, 2251 Center St., Cambria.

MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS DISCUSSION

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

JANUARY 29 - FEBRUARY 8, 2026

BLENDING BEATS

Grammy-winning trumpeter, vocalist, and producer Keyon Harrold will perform live at the Spanos Theatre in San Luis Obispo on Wednesday, Feb. 4, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Hear Harrold blend Afrobeat, jazz, soul, and American folk beats. Admission is $49. More information can be found at calpolyarts.org.

PALE KAI OUTRIGGER CANOE CLUB Pale Kai

Outrigger Canoe Club is recruiting for the 2026 racing season. Make new friends, stay in shape, and get on the water. Join, train, and race! Saturdays, 9:30-11 a.m., Jan. 31 9:30-11 a.m. and Feb. 7, 9:30-11 p.m. through Feb. 7 Free. palekai.org/joinus. Coleman Park (Morro Bay), 101 Coleman Drive, Morro Bay, (805) 772-6278.

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.

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

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS AT COSTA DE ORO Featured vendors in the series include Cali Coast Tacos, Cubanissimo, Danny’s Pizza Co., Chef Ricks, and more. Call venue for monthly schedules. Fridays (805) 922-1468. costadeorowines.com. Costa De Oro Winery, 1331 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria.

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

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

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

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

TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

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) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.

THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER

Call venue or visit website to find out about featured vintners. Thursdays stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. ongoing Varies. wineanddesign.com/orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.

WINE BINGO WEDNESDAYS Join Wine Bingo Wednesday at the Wine Stone Inn –– the original bingo night in Old Orcutt. The event will occur weekly with the purchase of an adult beverage. Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. through April 29 (805) 332-3532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO TUESDAYS

CLASH Don’t miss Head Games Trivia at COLD Coast Brewing Company every Tuesday night. Teams can be up to 6 members. Earn prizes and bragging rights. Kekas will be serving their delicious local fare. Fun for all ages. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. (805) 819-0723. coldcoastbrewing.com. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES New topics each month with a thorough demo and explanation of the process that creates non-alcoholic, probiotic, and nutrient-dense fermentations. Leave the class confident and prepared with recipes to make your own at home. Limited seating; reserve spot prior to class by phone/email. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Join to expand your knowledge of the fermentation process and get started fermenting at home. We alternate between demonstration and hands-on classes. Second Sunday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. $30-$50. (805) 801-6627. kulturhausbrewing.com/classes/. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach. TRIVIA NIGHT Join BrainStew Trivia for a hilariously witty evening of trivia in Pismo. Teams of 1 to 4 people. Prizes awarded to the first and second place teams. Kitchen is open until 7:30 p.m. for brain fuel. Beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options available. First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14

Free to play. (805) 295-6171. kulturhausbrewing.com. Kulturhaus Brewing Company, 779 Price St., Pismo Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

DOWNTOWN SLO FARMERS MARKET

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

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

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

SLO GRANGE PANCAKE BREAKFAST

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

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

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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

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

Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 623-5129, stellerscellar.com.

MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah

Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY

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

OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. (805) 478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.

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

SANTA YNEZ 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.

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

THE LOUNGE AT BESO An upscale afterhours nightclub experience. With limited capacity and a dress code. For ages 21 and over. Fridays, 10 p.m. my805tix.com. Beso Cocina, 1050 Willow Road, Nipomo.

TAKE IT TO THE LIMIT - A TRIBUTE TO THE EAGLES Moon Coin Productions Inc. Presents: Take It To The Limit - A Tribute To The Eagles. Feb. 7 7:30-9:30 p.m. $59-$69. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

TAKE IT TO THE LIMIT: A TRIBUTE TO THE EAGLES With rave reviews from coast to coast, the concert captures the essence, harmony, and energy of an authentic Eagles performance. Not to be missed! Feb. 7, 7:30-10 p.m. $59-$69. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

THE BUNKER SLO PRESENTS: JAGG Jan. 31 , 6-10 p.m. $12.56. my805tix.com. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

HONOR JAZZ BAND CONCERT Enjoy a night of jazz with the SLO County High School Honor Jazz Band and The Cuesta Jazz Ensemble! Jan. 31 7:30 p.m. $20. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

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.

MANIA: THE ABBA TRIBUTE Don’t miss Mania: The ABBA Tribute, presented by Emporium. Jan. 29 7:30-9:30 p.m. $42$72. (805) 963-0761. lobero.org/. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido, Santa Barbara.

YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT A fun, welcoming environment for first time performers and an opportunity for kids and teens to showcase their talent. Prizes awarded every month for Outstanding Performer. Last Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. certainsparks.com/. Certain Sparks Music, 107 S. H St., Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY CLARK CENTER PRESENTS: HEART BY HEART WITH STEVE FOSSEN & MICHAEL DEROSIER OF HEART Relive the glory days of classic rock with Heart By Heart, featuring original Heart members Steve Fossen (bass) and Michael Derosier (drums). Feb. 1 , 7-9 p.m. $45-$65, Platinum $75; Senior Discounts. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

KEYON HARROLD Grammy-winning trumpeter blends jazz, Afrobeat, soul, hip-hop, and rock, captivating audiences with his warm tone, improvisation, and acclaimed album Foreverland, nominated for 2025 Grammy Award. Feb. 4 , 7:30 p.m. (805) 756-4849. calpolyarts. org/20252026-season/keyon-harrold.

Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. SLO SYMPHONY PRESENTS ROMANCE AND FIRE Immerse yourself in a night of sweeping romance and heroic grandeur with two titans of the Romantic era, Schumann’s Piano Concerto, and Sibelius Symphony No.2. Feb. 7 7:30 p.m. $12-$92. (805) 543-3533. slosymphony.org/ calendar-2025-2026. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. SOUL AT THE FROG AND PEACH WITH SUNNY AND THE WRIGHT TONES The Frog and Peach will host Sunny and The Wright Tones, with Toan Chau, David Keif, Daryl Vandruff, and Sunny Wright. Feb. 7 9:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Free. (805) 595-3764. Frog and Peach Pub, 728 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, frogandpeachpub.com.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE

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

ARTS BRIEFS

Make an impact with a county art grant

The Santa Barbara County Office of Arts & Culture is taking applications for the 2026 County Arts Making Impact (AMI) grant, a program that aims to expand arts access and eliminate barriers to participation. Nonprofit organizations and artists with fiscal sponsors can apply for up to $5,000 grants, with a total of $50,000 available, by March 20.

AMI projects can be used to increase community engagement and provide greater and more diverse participation in the arts and integrate arts into learning environments for youth, according to the Office of Arts & Culture’s website. The office encourages grant proposals that build partnerships or collaborations to help eliminate barriers to cultural activities. Those can include access to transportation, materials, artists, music, and art instruction for rural youth and underserved communities.

Organizations applying for the grant must have nonprofit status with an operating budget under $500,000 and attend a free online grant workshop on Feb. 11 or March 10. Individual and grassroots community groups can also apply under the auspices of a nonprofit fiscal sponsor, according to the county. Projects must take place between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027. The grant is possible through a partnership between the Santa Barbara County Arts Commission and the Santa Barbara Bowl Foundation. Arts Commission Chair Robert Dickerson said that the board is proud of the grant program.

“For over a decade, it has helped to increase arts and culture access across Santa Barbara County. Our goal is that residents, regardless of income, geography, or background, can experience theater, music, writing, storytelling, and beyond. We’ve seen AMI catalyze change in our communities and look forward to building on this momentum,” he said in a press release.

See work by a Danish artist at the Elverhoj Museum

Paintings and hand-colored copper etchings by Danish artist Susanne Thea are up at the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art through March 22.

The exhibit, Snapshots: Traveling with HC Andersen, is inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s A Poet’s Bazaar from 1842. Thea connected Andersen’s era with the digital age, traveling the same route he took throughout Europe and the Mediterranean.

“More than 180 years later, Thea followed his route using Google, allowing her to visit every location described in the book through a process she calls mind-traveling, moving across time through imagination, research, and artistic interpretation,” according to the museum.

Thea studied Andersen’s diaries and stories as well as the art, music, and philosophy he referenced. Her artwork has been showcased internationally, including in Denmark and Ireland.

The Elverhoj Museum of History and Art is located at 1624 Elverhoy Way in Solvang. Open Thursday to Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the museum documents the town’s history and Danish culture. Call (805) 686-1211 for more information. m

Take the wheel

Get your hands dirty at Buellton’s Community Clayworks studio

BY MADISON WHITE

When a friend asked Veronica Medina whose job she would want out of anyone in the world, Medina immediately had an answer: her high school ceramics teacher. The question came after Medina graduated from college and began contemplating her next step.

“I just had this absolute, instinctive moment of clarity,” Medina said. “I couldn’t think of a more perfect way to spend my day-to-day.”

The New Jersey native picked up clay when she was in high school and continued at New York University. She enrolled in a graduate-level course, suggested to her by the professor based on her experience.

“I was very functionally focused, and then I was in the world of sculpture and communicating ideas three-dimensionally, and that sort of changed how I thought about it,” the artist said of her college class. “I felt like it helped set this trajectory of a more wellrounded clay perspective.”

A lifelong creator, Medina loves the art of clay making. When she’s in the flow state on her wheel, it feels spiritual. Time just disappears.

“Clay was one of those things. I don’t know how to describe it exactly,” Medina said. “There are certain things that are so connected to your soul that you kind of can’t live without them, and this is one of them.”

After her ceramics-teachercareer revelation, Medina studied art education in graduate school and taught at the high school level for nine years in New York City.

Like taking up any new hobby, the keys are learning and having fun. Her advice to new potters is to find joy and playfulness in the challenges.

“I think there’s a very therapeutic effect of it being calming, clearing of the mind, but also really exhilarating when you feel like you’re creating something and you’re literally turning this pile of lumpy clay into something you’re excited about,” Medina said.

Ready for a change, she moved to California a decade ago, eventually starting up her own studio in the Santa Ynez Valley. During the pandemic she had to hold classes in her yard where everyone could keep their distance.

Steady hands

Sign up for one-time workshops or six-week courses at Community Clayworks by visiting communityclayworks.com. Check out the upcoming Valentine’s Day weekend classes on Feb. 13 and 14. The studio is located at 37 Industrial Way, suite 101-108, in Buellton.

“I wanted to find a community that I could be a part of and that I could fit in where I could find people that were like-minded,” she said about opening her studio. “I felt like this was the only way that I could see finding that space for myself and for others. Essentially, it’s an extension of my classroom.”

Later in 2020 Medina secured a brick-andmortar location in Buellton and named it Community Clayworks. This past November, the studio moved a couple of doors down to a space more than double its original size.

There are around half a dozen instructors at Community Clayworks, and a lot of them are clay makers who Medina met when she first opened her studio. Teachers have become friends with each other, and students who take classes or have memberships at the studio get close, too. Medina and the other teachers offer six-week courses for beginner and intermediate levels. Students learn how to manage the potter’s wheel, use basic tools and shaping techniques, and glaze their creations. With experience from these extended programs, students often graduate to a membership so they can use the studio on their own time.

Every Saturday the studio holds sip and spin classes, allowing potters to bring beverages of their choice and experiment with clay. It’s a good introduction to the wheel, Media said. Kids can join in on the fun at private parties and children’s workshops or summer camps. With young ones, shaping by hand and using basic tools is easier than working on the wheel. No matter the skill level, Medina believes clay making is all about the fun, creative process rather than the result. The studio owner has worked hard for the past five years to give Community Clayworks heart and soul.

“It’s a place where you go to play and learn about clay, but it’s also a place to find connection with other people,” Medina said. “And I think that’s important nowadays.” m

Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@ santamariasun.com.

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Deadly game

Created by Chris Chibnall (Doctor Who, Broadchurch) and directed by Chris Sweeney (Back to Life, The Tourist, Apples Never Fall), this British three-part miniseries is based on Christie’s 1929 novel The Mystery of the Seven Dials. Mia McKenna-Bruce stars as Lady Eileen “Bundle” Brent, who lives with her mother, Lady Caterham (Helena Bonham Carter), on their sprawling but aged estate. After a supposed suicide at a party, Bundle finds herself in the middle of a dangerous murder mystery. (three 52- to 56-min. episodes)

Glen: This old fashioned mystery moves between 1920 and the death of Lord Caterham (Iain Glen) and 1925 at the Caterham estate where Lady Caterham (Helena Bonham Carter) has rented out her house and grounds and is reluctantly overseeing a party thrown by steel Magnate Sir Oswald Coote (Mark Lewis Jones), who’s trying to secure a secret government contract. Caterham’s daughter, the precocious Lady Eileen “Bundle” Brent, makes romantic plans with Gerry Wade (Corey Mylchreest), a friend of her late brother and one of the many overnight guests from Foreign Office, but by morning, all hell has broken loose when Gerry’s body is discovered alongside sleeping medication, suggesting suicide. What follows is Bundle getting in over her head as she tries to unravel the mystery. It’s full of twists, reveals, and red herrings, and its period setting is charming as heck.

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S SEVEN DIALS

What’s it rated? TV-14

What’s it worth, Anna? Full price

What’s it worth, Glen? Full price

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Anna: It takes place in a time of propriety, wealth, and class status where estates are sprawling and servants are plentiful—at least for the upper echelon, like the Cootes. Lady Caterham is vastly annoyed with having others invade her home, but without her husband around anymore, she must find ways to keep the estate in the black. Bundle is plucky and charming, a young woman who is “one of the boys” alongside the young men her age—Ronny (Nabhaan Rizwan), Jimmy (Edward Bluemel), Bill (Hughie O’Donnel), and sweet Gerry. Despite everyone around her discouraging her inquiries,

Bundle refuses to accept that Gerry made a fatal mistake or took his own life. Christie is such a great twisty mystery writer, and Seven Dials is a classic piece of work from the author, brought to the screen brilliantly by this cast. Glen: The always welcome Martin Freeman stars as Superintendent Battle of Scotland Yard, who’s also dissuading Bundle from prying into the case. He knows there’s more afoot than the death of a young man. Without giving anything important away, the case involves the invention of a metal-strengthening formula that has widespread military applications, a secret society that meets at a seedy London nightclub called the Seven Dials, and a retribution plot against the British government. It wouldn’t be an Agatha Christie story without a lot of byzantine plotting and hairpin twists and turns. I had no clue who did it, but my wife— Little Miss Mystery and Crime Lover and avowed Murderino—had her suspicions. Give it a watch and see if you can figure it out. Anna: It can be pretty hard to find a twisty turn I don’t see coming, but my inkling toward the ending didn’t ruin the series at all. Instead, it just left me hanging on tighter to see if my suspicions were right. McKenna-Bruce as Bundle is undeniably charming, and Freeman as Superintendent Battle also gives a winning performance. The two end up reluctantly working together to find the answer to the Seven Dials and who is the mastermind behind it all. At around three hours, this miniseries is a good watch without getting too drawn out, the action stays tight, and the luscious, rich atmosphere of 1920s English elite lifestyle is nothing but pleasant to watch. You’ll likely want to do what we did and binge this all in one night. m

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

THE RIP

What’s it rated? PG When? 2026

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Joe Carnahan (Smokin’ Aces The Grey) directs this script he co-wrote about a team of Miami cops tipped off to a house full of millions in cash. They’re tasked with counting the money on-site, and suspicion and paranoia grow in the wake of an earlier murder of the team’s captain, Jackie Velez (Lina Esco), and rumors of dirty cops ripping off stash houses.

At the center of the action are Lt. Dane Dumars (Matt Damon), Detective Sgt. JD Byrne (Ben Affleck), Detective Mike Ro (Steven Yeun), Detective Numa Baptiste (Teyana Taylor), and Detective Lolo Salazar (Catalina Sandino Moreno), who arrive to search the house, which is occupied by Desi Molina (Sasha Calle), the late homeowner’s granddaughter. The raid turns into a game of cat and mouse as the various players try to figure out one another’s motives.

Carnahan sets up a tense standoff. The surrounding neighborhood appears deserted. Is the entire area controlled by a cartel that might descend at any moment? Why did Dumars tell each of his team members different information about the tip?

It’s great to see Damon and Affleck together again. The

longtime friends have great chemistry, even when their characters distrust one another. Even in a B-movie throwaway like this, they’re great. (113 min.)

—Glen

HIS & HERS

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2026

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Small town Dahlonega, Georgia, has plenty of secrets to hide. Anna (Tessa Thompson) grew up there but has moved on to Atlanta where she works as a news anchor. When she catches wind that her hometown is the scene of a murder, she’s drawn back to the community, and inadvertently back into the life of her ex-husband, Detective Jack Harper (Jon Bernthal).

Harper has his hands full with his deadbeat sister, Zoe (Marin Ireland), and young niece, Meg (Ellie Rose Sawyer), in his house, along with some secrets of his own. Anna is back and poking her nose into his investigation, one that he doesn’t want getting out of his hands. Harper’s partner, Priya (Sunita Mani), may be green, but she’s got a knack for investigation and soon grows suspicious of her partner.

Through flashbacks, we learn of an event from Anna’s teen years that involved the murder victim, and soon a dark mystery starts to unravel. The small town’s secrets and lies start to spill over, and a race against a killer is soon afoot. This one is for fans of crime dramas and those who don’t mind a twist ending. (six 39- to 47-min. episodes) m —Anna

Eats

Uncorked

CaliPaso Winery expands along the Central Coast with a tasting room in Solvang

BY MADISON WHITE

The giant television screen inside CaliPaso Winery’s Solvang tasting room became an exciting way to watch the World Series last fall, especially for Dodgers fans. Some traveled north from LA ahead of their team’s championship win, and the place was packed. Assistant manager Haden Peterson said the tasting room stayed open until almost midnight instead of the usual 7 p.m. closing time.

“The bar gets pretty full when stuff like that’s happening,” he said. “I had people wearing jerseys, hats, everything like that. The Dodgers ended up doing pretty good.”

It’s not a sports bar, but Peterson likes to throw games on the TV when guests are invested. The Dodgers’ win was the busiest night, besides Julefest, that Peterson remembers since he started working at the tasting room when it opened last August.

CaliPaso also operates wine bars in San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles, where it also has a villa with rooms for rent overlooking the vineyards.

Peterson ended up in the wine business almost by fate. His friends and family are involved in the industry, and after attending college in San Diego, he returned to the Central Coast last year.

“Being from Paso Robles, I kind of thought of it as inevitable that I’d be into wine,” he said. “It was something that I was always interested in, but ever since I started working here, I’ve loved it.”

Over the past few months, he’s learned a lot about wine but knows it’s an everlasting journey.

CaliPaso Winery’s new tasting room is located at 482 1st St. in Solvang. It’s open Sunday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information about the winery, visit calipasowinery.com.

The manager’s favorite part about overseeing the tasting room is socializing with guests and helping them have an engaging, personal experience.

He pours many tastings and glasses of local favorites like tempranillo, zinfandel, and cabernet sauvignon.

Peterson’s own top choice is the Siren’s Blend of 60 percent merlot and 40 percent petite sirah, “the perfect blend.” CaliPaso also has a sizable catalog of white wines and a prosecco.

Many familiar faces are starting to return regularly, but Peterson likes talking with visitors, too.

“People come from all over the world. I get people from Europe, I’ve had people from Africa,” Peterson said. “Solvang is one of those towns

where, I don’t know why, but it seems like everyone’s in a good mood when they’re here.”

While the addition of a Solvang tasting room is CaliPaso’s most recent expansion, it’s probably not the last. Because the wines aren’t in many grocery stores, Peterson thinks having more tasting rooms makes the label more accessible to customers. Many people are familiar with the winery but not how to buy its bottles.

“It’s not just the wine, but it’s the experience as well that makes them have a good relationship with our wine and allows them to enjoy it even more,” Peterson said.

The venue on 1st Street in Solvang is right in front of the park where the community gathers for farmers markets and music in the park events. Peterson makes an effort to partner with neighboring businesses, like The Winston hotel located a couple of doors down. It’s a 14-room boutique hotel that opened in 2020. Hotel guests receive a two-for-one tasting deal at CaliPaso.

Rooms at The Winston occupy the upstairs portion of the building, directly on top

of CaliPaso and also sport views of the Solvang park. When guests head down to the tasting room, Peterson makes sure to treat them well.

“I’ll give them a little bit of extra just because they’re staying with them,” Peterson said, “to try to give them a good experience.”

In the future, Peterson wants to partner with a local cheese shop to create a pairing menu and a cheese board option for wine tasters—maybe even in time for the Super Bowl. m

Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@ santamariasun.com.

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