June means one thing for the LGBTQ-plus community across the Central Coast and beyond: It’s Pride Month! That translates to events in Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo that celebrate the season, including drag shows, concerts, and even plays. For our annual Pride issue, Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood talks to PCPA about Pride Nights and the themes that come with them [6], and intern Katy Clark speaks with Central Coast drag queens about performing and why it’s important [7]
Also, find stories about the motel that’s suing Buellton over a new ordinance [4]; gayraoke at the Maverick Saloon in Santa Ynez [22]; and a butcher shop in Guadalupe [26]
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• U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-California) and U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) spearheaded a joint letter—signed by several legislators—to Sable Offshore Corporation CEO and Chairman Jim Flores on May 27, demanding that the oil producer preserve all internal communications records between the company and Trump administration officials related to the restart of the Santa Ynez Unit . “The administration’s reliance on the Defense Production Act—no doubt in consultation and coordination with lawyers representing Sable—is a serious misuse of a federal law meant to be involved for national security reasons, not to enrich an industry already making record profits,” the letter states. “To help Congress better understand this effort to circumvent California law and coastal protections, we seek detailed information on the company’s role in this decision, and your communications with the Trump administration in relation to Sable Offshore’s SYU [Santa Ynez Unit] project.” Alongside Schiff and Carbajal, those who signed the letter include U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California), Assemblymember Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley), and seven other legislators.
• On May 27, U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) commented on the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, recently passed by the House of Representatives. “The House-passed version is not the answer—it does not reverse the devastating SNAP cuts made by Trump’s ‘Anything But Beautiful Bill,’” Padilla stated. “California’s families and growers deserve better. I look forward to working with my colleagues to make the meaningful changes necessary to get this bill right. … California is home to the largest agricultural economy in the country, and I am committed to delivering a Farm Bill that works for farmers, growers, ranchers, and families.”
• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) was part of the 62-2 vote to advance the BUILD America 250 Act out of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, where Carbajal serves as a senior member. The BUILD America 250 Act is a bipartisan, five-year surface transportation reauthorization bill that invests in roads, bridges, transit, rail transportation, and highway and motor carrier safety programs. “To build an economy that works for everyone and lowers costs, we need reliable infrastructure. While I helped write and pass the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, there is still much more we can do to modernize our roads, highways, and railroads,” Carbajal said in a May 29 statement. “This new legislation builds on that foundation and lays out a strong pathway forward to renew our nation’s infrastructure. I will continue working on a bipartisan basis to get this bill across the finish line.” According to Carbajal’s office, the BUILD America 250 Act provides the largest ever investment in U.S. bridges, provides the first ever autonomous commercial motor vehicle framework, and injects the Highway Trust Fund with its first new stream of revenue in more than three decades. Some bill priorities Carbajal advocated for included supporting metropolitan planning organizations, like the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments and San Luis Obispo Council of Governments to access Metropolitan Planning Program funds by increasing funding by 18 percent above Bipartisan Infrastructure Law levels. The bill would increase the federal cost-share for Metropolitan Planning Program funds from 80 percent to 90 percent. “We are appreciative of the great work of Congressman Carbajal, who has been a consistent collaborator with industry stakeholders, like National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA), throughout this Congress ahead of consequential markup,” NAPA Vice President of Government Affairs Nile Elam stated. “[We] encourage all of his colleagues in the House to pass the BUILD America 250 Act as quickly as possible.” m
Farmhouse sues Buellton over motel reversion mandate
Less than a month after becoming enforceable, Buellton’s new housing restrictions on motels along Avenue of Flags now face a civil lawsuit that one property owner warned city officials was inevitable.
Farmhouse co-owner Kerry Moriarty was vocal about his intentions to sue the city during public hearings focused on Buellton’s motel reversion ordinance, enacted in late April.
The policy requires Farmhouse—a 60-yearold-motel development that’s offered long-term housing for nearly 30 years—to gradually revert its 22 residential units to traditional motel rooms.
“Compliance with the ordinance would force petitioners to displace all existing residents and attempt to convert the property into a fullservice transient motel, a materially different use that has not existed on the property for decades,” the May 7 complaint states.
“The city has long been aware that the Farmhouse was being used for residential purposes,” the complaint alleges, “and at no time prior to the adoption of the ordinance did the city initiate enforcement proceedings or code enforcement actions challenging the residential use as unlawful.”
Filed in Santa Barbara County Superior Court, the lawsuit names Moriarty and fellow Farmhouse co-owners Glenn Wilson and Peggy Wilson as its petitioners who demanded a trial by jury.
Aside from compensation from Buellton for damages to be determined at trial and attorney fees, the petitioners want the court to order the city to “vacate the ordinance.”
The court summoned defendants—listed as the city of Buellton, the Buellton City Council, and City Manager Scott Wolfe—on May 14, giving them 30 calendar days to respond.
The council was scheduled to discuss the lawsuit in closed session at its May 28 meeting, but did not after staff said there was no need to.
“No closed session this evening,” City Attorney Greg Murphy said at the meeting. “No updates to share.”
Among various allegations in the 111-page complaint, plaintiffs accuse the Buellton ordinance of violating California’s laws against spot zoning. That’s when a local agency singles out a particular parcel of land for zoning treatment “materially inconsistent” with surrounding properties and unrelated to
health, safety, or public welfare, Farmhouse’s attorneys said.
“California courts have repeatedly held that zoning actions adopted to burden a specific parcel or small group of parcels for redevelopment purposes, without a legitimate planning justification, constitute unlawful spot zoning,” the complaint states.
Farmhouse alleges that it was specifically targeted by the city for motel reversion “based on redevelopment and aesthetic preferences, which do not constitute a legitimate zoning rationale.”
“While the ordinance expressly identifies four [motel] properties along Avenue of Flags, it has the practical effect of targeting just the Farmhouse,” the complaint reads, “since one of the properties is exempted, one has been demolished, and the remaining one contains only two [short-term rental] units that are subject to the ordinance. As a result, the ordinance effectively singles out the Farmhouse.”
—Caleb Wiseblood
Lompoc Unified approves a plan for more equitable arts classes districtwide
Jackalynn Snow channeled her inner Cynthia Erivo from the film Wicked at the most recent Lompoc Unified school board meeting “Unlimited. With arts we are unlimited,” Snow sang during her presentation of the district’s strategic arts plan.
Snow, the district’s visual and performing arts program specialist, hoped her rendition of “Unlimited” would bring people into the moment, she later told the Sun. Continuing with the Wicked theme, she compelled board members to “defy gravity by approving the strategic arts plan,” which they did with a unanimous vote on May 19.
For more than five years, teachers, administrators, and community members have been formulating the strategic arts plan. In essence, the goal is to give every student equitable access to five creative disciplines: dance, music, visual arts, theater, and media arts. This iteration will last until 2030, when the district will reevaluate its progress.
Development started before Snow assumed her role with the district two and a half years ago. Members of the task force, who sang backup vocals with her at the meeting, had been meeting monthly to identify gaps in the arts curriculum.
Many holes were filled this year. For example, this spring semester was the first time that every elementary site had a full-time visual and performing arts teacher.
“That was a big thing to finally be fully staffed at the elementary level for those positions,” Snow said.
Another big win was hiring a theater teacher at Lompoc Valley Middle School. Next year, the campus will also offer choir and orchestra classes.
“We’re also looking at some film festival opportunities for middle school students, so we’ve got quite a few exciting things coming down the line,” Snow said.
By spring of 2027, Snow said, the district hopes to have dance classes at all campuses, adding a cultural layer to movement and music education.
More programming will be heading to Maple Continuation High School and Bob Forinash Community Day School, currently the most underserved when it comes to the arts, according to the district’s inventory.
Some instruction is offered by teachers onsite, but Lompoc Unified also partners with other organizations like the Children’s Creative Project for additional lessons.
On top of money that the district already allocates toward visual and performing arts, it receives funding from Proposition 28, an act passed by California voters in 2022 to support arts education.
“It’s a supplemental resource, so we have to keep spending what we’ve already spent on arts before we can use Prop. 28,” Snow explained.
“That put us in a situation that we could really take action on some of these ideas, so that was super helpful and super exciting.”
The district wants to give students more creative opportunities because it prepares them for the workforce and higher education. In Snow’s experience, exercising creative muscles teaches kids how to adapt to new scenarios. It also builds social skills through face-to-face interactions.
“Also, I think just deeper thinking. There’s not a right or wrong answer with art, but you’re exploring humanity,” Snow said. “It can build empathy. It can build a way to look at the world through other perspectives, and I think that’s really important.”
To learn more about getting involved with the district’s visual and performing arts task force, email snow.jackalynn@lusd.org.
—Madison White
Solvang to explore contracting with Lompoc PD for law enforcement
Since 2015, Solvang’s law enforcement costs have doubled, increasing from about $1.5 million to $3.4 million.
“That’s 107 percent increase over the last 10 years for the same baseline services,” Assistant City Manager Olivia Uribe-Mutal told the Solvang City Council during its May 26 meeting. “Over that same time, the city has experienced consistent concerns over service levels.”
When the city was formed in 1985, it began contracting with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office for law enforcement services. The baseline level of service is essentially one patrol car staffed 24/7—or the equivalent of 5.5 full-time deputies—that serves the city of 6,000 people. In recent years, the city has had consistent concerns about service issues that “have not been resolved” over traffic enforcement, accountability, statistical reporting, event coverage, and cost issues, Uribe-Mutal said.
“We have never had any other law enforcement provider,” she said. “When the
APPROACHING THE BENCH: Farmhouse co-owner Kerry Moriarty (left) was among the petitioners named in a recent civil lawsuit against the city of Buellton. Santa Barbara County Superior Court gave Buellton a mid-June deadline to respond to the suit, which asks the court to annul an ordinance that restricts long-term housing at motel properties in the Avenue of Flags corridor.
city’s largest expenditure is also its least accountable line item, then we have a problem that requires attention.”
City management has been actively looking at alternatives over the last six months, she said, adding that staff believes a “city-to-city arrangement” with Lompoc could be worth pursuing. The city of Buellton is also looking into what its cost-to-service ratio might look like if it contracts with the Lompoc Police Department to provide law enforcement services instead of the Sheriff’s Office, UribeMutal added.
Both cities were frustrated with the lastminute cost increases involved in the current contract with the Sheriff’s Office, which ends in June 2027. At the time, in 2023, Solvang requested performance metrics from the Sheriff’s Office, which responded by saying it couldn’t provide the statistics the city was looking for without charging more.
Solvang doesn’t have any problems with the local deputies who provide the law enforcement services, City Manager Randy Murphy said. It’s simply about value.
“We don’t believe we’re getting what we’re paying for,” he said. “ … $3.4 million is a lot of money, and that’s what’s driving this discussion, driving this request.”
Lompoc Police Chief Kevin Martin assured him that Lompoc can give Solvang a better value for the cost, Murphy said. Martin told the council that with a city of 43,000, he receives about $9 million a year to fund the department, which consists of 51 sworn police officers and about 25 professional staff.
“Wow, we’re paying 3-for-1,”
Councilmember Elizabeth Orona said in response.
“Cost comparison, there’s no comparison,” Murphy added. “We could have a third of his department working in the city of Solvang for the same money.”
Orona added that the council wasn’t simply concerned with the cost of the Sheriff’s Office contract but also with what it sees as a lack of data, innovation, and efficiency. Part of the service the Lompoc Police Department would provide includes monthly updates and an annual report, which is what it currently does for Lompoc, Martin said.
“One other thing that we’re not getting is transparency,” Orona said. “Already it sounds like we would be able to understand quickly what we’re getting for our share.”
Councilmember Mark Infante wondered about how much start-up costs might be, including purchasing a patrol vehicle, getting officers trained, and buying equipment. Murphy said he anticipated it would cost at least $500,000.
Mayor David Brown reminded everyone that the decision made that night was simply to explore the option of contracting with Lompoc and dive into the details of what that might looks like.
The council unanimously approved that exploration, as well as the potential of extending the Sheriff’s Office contract for one more year if everything couldn’t be buttoned up with Lompoc before the current contract expires. City staff is aiming to negotiate the potential city-to-city contract over the summer and bring it to the council in September. m
—Camillia Lanham
WATER QUALITY
PCPA Pride
There are three Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA) Pride Night pre-show experiences left this season, accompanying productions of Come From Away (June 20), Disney’s Frozen (July 11), and Beehive—The ’60s Musical (Aug. 15), all at Solvang Festival Theater.
PCPA pairs performances with pre-show Pride Night festivities
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Dressing for the occasion takes on a whole new meaning during the Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s (PCPA) Pride Night events.
Audience members are encouraged to don attire that may get them mistaken for cast members, Event and Development Coordinator Lolly Tolan explained.
“You can’t go wrong with a cowboy hat and bolo tie,” Tolan (whose pronouns are they/them) said about their experience going all out for Pride Night during PCPA’s run of Shane in February. Tolan was among those who took advantage of a photo station during the gunslinger-themed Shane event that allowed users to pose for their very own “Wanted” poster. “Dead or alive,” of course, with a posted bounty of no less than $10,000.
PCPA essentially never hosts the same kind of Pride Night twice.
“They’re always a little different, to fit the needs and themes of the show,” Tolan said.
Pride Night started in 2024 as a one-night preshow experience that PCPA curates to pair with the show that’s onstage at the moment.
Tolan helped develop the event with Youth and Community Arts Director Marilet Martinez. The goal was to offer members and allies of the LGBTQ-plus community a new Central Coast outlet where they can meet and mingle over complimentary food, drinks, and party favors before watching a PCPA performance together.
“We wanted to create a space where everyone could gather, have fun, and celebrate themselves and each other,” said Tolan, who took on the role of PCPA’s event coordinator in 2024.
That was the year PCPA debuted Pride Night as a pairing with its winter production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Since then, the company has periodically offered Pride Night pre-show experiences at no extra cost to ticket holders.
There’s even a 15 percent ticket discount during Pride Night performances (with code PRIDE online at pcpa.org).
For its 2026 season, PCPA partnered with the Gala Pride and Diversity Center for the Pride Night program. As part of the pre-show experiences this year, there are raffles to enter for prizes provided by Gala.
“At past [raffles] I’ve seen company swag like branded mugs or merch; a coupon for a free haircut from a salon in SLO,” Tolan listed, “and some other discounts/free items.”
The San Luis Obispo-based nonprofit also hosts a station during each Pride Night event where community resource materials are available.
“PCPA has been a wonderful champion,” Gala Program Manager Linnea Valdivia told the Sun via email. “While most of our programming is San Luis Obispo County-focused, we are open to collaborate with other organizations working to promote equity and justice for all people on the Central Coast.”
There are three Pride Night pre-show
Use code PRIDE at pcpa.org for a 15 percent ticket discount for Pride Night performances.
experiences left to attend this season, accompanying PCPA’s productions of Come From Away (June 20), Disney’s Frozen (July 11), and Beehive—The ’60s Musical (Aug. 15). Each performance takes place under the stars at Solvang Festival Theater.
While each Pride Night pre-show event’s themes and motifs differ from show to show, some consistent festivities that usually carry over between events are sing-along activities, interactive installations, some form of a Mad Libs game, and talkback or Q-and-A discussions with PCPA cast and crew members.
“We also bring in community partners to set up tables,” Tolan said. “Some will bring informational materials or even their own swag.”
Tolan said that anyone looking forward to PCPA’s Pride Night for Frozen and other upcoming Festival Theater shows will have to stay tuned for details, as those events are still in the planning phase.
Tolan recounted some of their personal favorite aspects of Pride Night events for PCPA’s production of Shane in February and Measure for Measure in March. Both shows were held at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria.
“During the Measure for Measure Pride Night, since PCPA had set our production as if it were being done by high school girls, we had a friendship bracelet station,” Tolan said. “At the Shane Pride Night there was a booth to make your own bandana bolo ties.” m
Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood
GATHER AROUND: The idea behind the Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s (PCPA) Pride Night pre-show experience is to offer members and allies of the LGBTQ-plus community a new, fun space to meet and mingle over complimentary food, drinks, and party favors before enjoying a PCPA production together.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LOLLY TOLAN
BEST IN SNOW: On July 11, PCPA will host a Pride Night pre-show experience themed after its production of Disney’s Frozen, onstage this summer at the Solvang Festival Theater.
WEST IN SHOW: Alyssa Schultz (left) and Lolly Tolan (right) sported cowboy hats and other gunslinging gear for PCPA’s Pride Night event themed after the company’s production of Shane earlier this year.
INTRICATE COSTUMES: “Being a Southern queen, we’re all about massive, giant pieces. So, I’ll be up at 3 a.m. the day before a show, just sewing away, putting it through the machine, gluing it together, and then getting ready three hours later to hit the stage,” Nala Diamond said.
Behind the character
BY KATY CLARK
Inspiring others to step into the creative performer inside of themselves is an important part of dressing up and hitting the stage for Santa Maria drag queen Nova Cane.
Onstage, Cane levels up the energy with thigh-high boots, contoured makeup, and performances that hit with songs by Doja Cat, Rihanna, and Kylie Minogue. Her goal for the upcoming drag performance at Presqu’ile Winery for HOPE After Dark on June 13 in Santa Maria is to go even bigger.
“This year, going into it, I want to keep pushing myself to be more creative and go balls to the wall because I want to take this crown and I want to represent Santa Maria queens,” Cane said. “I want more queens to be inspired to take that leap.”
Cane discovered drag by watching RuPaul’s Drag Race at the age of 14 and is inspired by the 2016 makeup scene. Drag makeup and choreographing her performances are creative pursuits that she loves, which enable her to give into a part of herself that she doesn’t get to every day.
“I think Nova Cane for me is just a little bit of an embodiment of my feminine side,” she said. “She’s a high-energy performer, she loves to serve face.”
While attending Pioneer Valley High School, Cane, who graduated in 2018, and a friend put makeup on one day. Cane attended school that day with a brown glittery smoky eye and a gray wig, 6-inch heels, and a fluffy tutu. It was Cane’s first time expressing herself through drag.
Brewing Company,
is hosting
month, is located at 1234 Broad St. in
San Luis Obispo. In Santa Maria, HOPE After Dark will be at Presqu’ile Winery at 5391 Presqu’ile Drive in Santa Maria on June 13.
“Definitely nervous at first, and then once I had everything on, it was like a superhero costume,” Cane said. “When Nova comes on, she’s a whole different side of me.”
A little reserved normally, Cane can be anything but in drag. In one show, for instance, she donned angel wings and a huge tulle coat to perform to Lana Del Rey’s song “Young and Beautiful.”
“Drag means stepping outside of your comfort zone and allowing yourself to be free and allowing yourself to be yourself,” Cane said.
For Fae Fatale, who will be performing at the That’s So Drag Brunch at Libertine Brewing Co. in San Luis Obispo, community lies at the heart of drag. Coming from the Cal Poly Drag Club in college, Nala Diamond and Juicy CW were the first queens that they met outside of Cal Poly.
“They’ve always been so much fun to work with. They have some of the craziest ideas, and they’re just so fun,” Fatale said. “And they’ve just given me so many opportunities to do drag and show drag to a bigger audience.”
Diamond and Juicy CW co-host the Drag Brunch at Libertine. On June 6, the Libertine is hosting a nighttime dance party with drag performances, which Fatale is performing in, alongside a brunch the next day to kick off Pride.
Fatale’s first time in drag was at a protest against a conservative speaker on Cal Poly’s campus.
“Being in drag in a space with so many other people who were feeling that same thing, it was really just a sense of coming home and coming into a new family,” Fatale said.
Drag offers an outlet for Fatale’s femininity, as they identify as a nonbinary male.
“As I ventured deeper into masculinity, I thought I would have to leave the makeup and dresses behind, otherwise it would be confusing to people, and so it allowed me to come back to a skill and a hobby I really loved, and it also allowed me to feel empowered to continue playing with gender and like I could do both, and also I could ultimately do what I wanted and still have a home and a community that would accept me and make me feel comfortable and empowered being myself,” Fatale said.
When they perform as Fae Fatale, they want the character to exist outside of themself and the world they live in. They drew upon themes of otherworldliness and fairy tales to develop the character, starting with just Fae, and later adding Fatale for more empowerment.
“I felt like I needed an outlet to step away from any of the hardship that I was experiencing with my family or any sort of issues that I was having. I could kind of escape into a separate world,” Fatale said.
As they continued to perform drag, they pulled from punk references, pushed against certain political themes, and leaned into protest.
“I think people have this idea of punk being scary and mean but I think at the very heart of punk is community care and it’s taking care of the people around you and making sure that everyone has a space,” Fatale said.
Donning latex and leather clothing with fishnets, a smoky eye, fake face piercings, and a big messy wig, Fatale likes to perform to Paramore, Kesha, and Slayyyter.
“I think with everything that is going on right now, it can feel really scary and isolating, but going to a drag show and just having
fun and performing for other people, being able to bring some amount of levity and joy to people who otherwise might be feeling scared or unaccepted, I think that is really the most important part of drag to me,” Fatale said.
Diamond said that so many people feel like they can’t be a drag queen.
“That they can’t perform at these spaces, and we’re just like, ‘We are here with open arms,’” Diamond said. “The only criteria we have at a drag show is to entertain an audience and just be a good person.”
Before Diamond goes onstage, they check in with their cats via the cameras in their home.
“I like to video chat them and be like, ‘I’m getting you money, I’ll be home soon,’” Diamond said.
All the money Diamond makes from performing drag is put back into the animal community. This includes rescuing animals, paying for an animal’s surgery or medication, and placing cat and dog food around the city for strays.
“Being able to see what I’m doing it for, it takes all the tension, all the nerves away,” Diamond said. “It gives you that goal, it gives you that drive to push your creativity. And I feel like I’m at my most funny and I feel like I’m at my most performative when I know that they’re all at home waiting for me to bring them new siblings.”
Diamond’s love for animals comes from growing up in a small Florida country town, where their family would rescue abandoned animals in the woods. Alongside their passion for animals, Diamond’s childhood also introduced them to the world of drag, from going to Pride parades with their parents.
“Being able to laugh, being able to see the glamor of it all, it is what I always feel like I wanted to do in life,” Diamond said. “And help animals.” m
Reach intern Katy Clark at intern@newtimesslo.com
Flipping the script
Fraud victims recount their experiences on locally produced podcast, Scam Squad
BY CALEB WISEBLOOD
Finding fresh material each week for her podcast is rarely a struggle for Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office Chief Criminal Investigator Kristina Perkins.
“It’s unfortunately easy to find content for Scam Squad because there’s so much out there,” Perkins told the Sun. “It’s usually just a variation of the same type of scam … happening everywhere.”
Perkins’ guests on Scam Squad—available online through Apple Podcasts and YouTube, and regularly aired as a KTMS (990 AM) radio segment—range between Central Coast locals and callers from out of state who vent about their experiences falling prey to scammers online, over the phone, or even in person.
“The reality is,” Perkins said, “if someone heard about a scam that’s happening in Arizona, I guarantee that scam’s happening here too.”
Since the recent launch of the District Attorney’s Office’s new email address dedicated to collecting reports of scams or suspected scams from county residents, Perkins has reviewed dozens of inquiries from community members she may not have heard from otherwise, she explained.
“We’ve been live for about a month, and I’ve received about 50 emails regarding scams,” Perkins said. “I know that phone calls, for some people, it’s just not the most effective way of communicating. … Everyone has their preferred way of communicating.”
The first message Perkins reviewed after the email address debuted in early May was from a local suspecting that they received a fake invoice from a source impersonating a county Planning Commission official.
Within less than a week, the District Attorney’s Office and
Planning and Development
Department collectively received more than a dozen messages about the same scam. The subject line on most of the emails residents reported receiving read: “Payment Request—Application Review & Approval Fee.”
The county sent out a public service announcement to warn the community about the scam on May 6. As of May 27, Perkins said that, fortunately, she hadn’t heard of anyone falling for it.
Alongside emailing reportfraud@countyofsb.org, the public can still opt to use the District Attorney’s Office’s phone hotline for scam reporting, which has been active as long as Perkins has worked for the agency. She joined the investigators team in 2013 and became chief criminal investigator in 2021.
“I knew that there was a large part of the population out there that we could probably tap into if I gave email as an option to contact,” Perkins said.
While the active phone hotline, (805) 568-2442, leads directly to voicemail instructions, Perkins and other office investigators look into every message the department receives, she said.
Outside of her work as a professional investigator and podcast host, Perkins occasionally leads educational presentations about scam trends and other types of fraud topics when invited to speak at local organizations. Past groups she’s collaborated with include the American Association of University Women’s (AAUW) Santa Maria Branch. Perkins hopes her ongoing work on raising awareness about scams helps prevent as many perpetrators from succeeding as possible.
“I’ve had phone calls with people from other states that say they’re the victims of fraud and that the reason they found out is they found my podcast and were able to identify something that I had specifically talked about,” said Perkins, who brought up a past caller from Utah as an example.
The caller was victimized by a romance scam, Perkins explained, which left her emotionally devastated and with $60,000 less in her bank account.
“She had suspected maybe this was something that was happening, but she didn’t put everything together—she really didn’t want to,” Perkins said, “but by listening to the podcast, it made her realize, ‘I’m the victim of a scam.’”
Highlights
• The Kiwanis Club of Santa Maria awarded a total of $45,220 in scholarships between 35 local high school students and one college student during its annual Scholarship Dinner on May 25. The organization selected its scholarship recipients—who received between $1,000 and $2,000 each—from applicants across the Santa Maria Valley. Visit santamariakiwanis.org for more info.
• The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors recently announced its selection of Jana Petersen as the county’s next executive officer, following Mona Miyasato’s planned retirement this summer. Petersen currently serves as the Boulder County administrator in Colorado, a role she’s held since 2020. Fourth District Supervisor Bob Nelson described Petersen as “a seasoned leader who has ably led her organization through many of the same challenges and opportunities that we have faced in recent years and will continue to face in the future.” m
Reach Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood at cwiseblood@ santamariasun.com.
BEHIND THE MIC: Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s
Office Chief Criminal Investigator Kristina Perkins is the host of Scam Squad, a weekly podcast and radio segment where she interviews victims of fraud and discusses scam trends.
Where do you have the most summer fun on the Central Coast?
50% At concerts and live performances!
33% Anywhere there’s great food and lovely weather.
17% At all the family-friendly camps and activities.
0% Among my fellow artisans at local galleries and shows.
A permanent safe beach
Oceano and
endangered
species deserve a peaceful beach
BY GIANNA PATCHEN & ANDREW CHRISTIE
It doesn’t happen often, but it happened recently:
The Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (ODSVRA) south of Arroyo Grande Creek was closed to off-highway vehicles and became a safe place for pedestrians.
6 Votes
Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.
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But the closure was temporary. The Oceano Dunes re-opened May 21 to off-road vehicles. Why was the Oceano Dunes closed to vehicles? Because State Parks was finally being held accountable for violating federal law for 30 years. For decades, State Parks postponed and submitted inadequate habitat conservation plans, the basis of the long overdue federal permit to “take” —meaning to incidentally harm or kill— threatened species in the ODSVRA. State Parks knowingly operated without that permit for decades and has still not been granted the required permit by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Accountability finally came via a lawsuit by the Center for Biological Diversity that pushed State Parks to comply with federal law. In April, the court ruled, “the California Department of Parks and Recreation violated the Endangered Species Act by allowing motorized vehicle use that harms imperiled shorebirds,” resulting in the temporary ODSVRA closure.
Despite decades of violations and the recent court order, State Parks may still get their permit. But they shouldn’t. State Parks’ draft Oceano Dunes habitat conservation plan fails to meet the key requirement of a Habitat Conservation Plan: to conserve habitat. Instead, it’s essentially a blueprint for taking land from threatened wildlife and giving it to vehicles.
A permit from U.S. Fish and Wildlife based on this inadequate draft habitat conservation plan would be another blow to the environment and local communities from the Trump administration. When the ODSVRA was closed to off-highway vehicles during the COVID pandemic, the park’s chronic air pollution problem cleared up, deaths and injuries went to zero, the erosion of dunes was abated, and the plovers expanded their habitat. As the commission’s executive director observed, “The shutdown of the park due to the COVID crisis really presented an unusual situation whereby these snowy
plovers took advantage of these now open and undisturbed areas of the beach and dunes to nest.”
State Parks’ response to this ecological success story was counterintuitive and illegal. They obliterated habitat, scuffed out nests, and harassed plovers in an attempt to prevent the plovers from expanding beyond their designated areas. This forced the Coastal Commission to issue a cease and desist order.
The COVID-era closure also provided a perfect economic case study. A Cal Poly economics professor reviewed the data from the closure and concluded that the suspension of off-road activities during COVID “did not have a material impact on the county’s economy” and “Oceano’s [lodging] revenue, actually, increased,” demonstrating that the economic necessity of the ODSVRA is severely overstated.
In reporting on the current closure, the LA Times got it wrong when it wrote that the ODSVRA “locked its gates” during the pandemic. Cars may have been barred, but people were welcome. For the first time in a long time, local community members dared to walk along the beach. Last month was another rare opportunity to enjoy Oceano Dunes.
As we look to the future, let’s examine what the Coastal Commission proposed five years ago to solve the ODSVRA’s chronic problems. Its vision didn’t close the dunes to the public and recreation but instead outlined a multi-year transition away from vehicular use: permitting hike-in and bike-in camping, closing the Pier Avenue entrance and only allowing car camping to the north of Pier Avenue. This would allow “the community to begin to plan for a revitalization of its main coastal street and accessway [which] would include a beach south of Pier Avenue without vehicles, allowing for the types of opportunities that help other California beach towns to prosper.” This is one of many proposals, including having a vehicle-free beach and various ideas to support and diversify the local economy.
The commission’s central finding should remain our compass: Off-highway vehicle recreation is fundamentally incompatible with the protection of coastal resources at the Oceano Dunes and the health of local communities. Decades of denial doesn’t make this any less true.
One thing’s for certain: Now is the time to envision the future we want at Oceano Dunes and work toward building it together. It’s time to create opportunities in Oceano that help both this California beach town and the dunes’ sensitive species prosper. That sounds like a good place to begin. m
Gianna Patchen is chapter coordinator for the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club. Andrew Christie served as chapter director from 2004 to 2023. Send a letter for publication to letters@ santamariasun.com.
There’s more to the seabirds story
Mr. George Hansen makes the stretch that birds died because we use gasoline in our cars (“Dead seabirds are the harbinger of a preventable future,” May 28). A few other things to consider:
1) He may want to discard his wetsuit, flip-flops, and sunglasses, which may also contain petroleum.
2) Elevated seawater temperatures may be affected by sub-sea volcanos off Oregon and Washington state. The Humboldt Current switching annually runs north to south and the California Current south to north.
3) Robust populations of marine mammals are depleting fish stocks. While fisheries decline, some marine mammal populations, like California sea lions, are above historic numbers and consume several times more fish (billions of pounds more) than are caught by humans.
4) Studies in the Santa Barbara Channel have found that 4,200 gallons of oil leak from natural seeps daily. Offshore oil production has reduced air emissions from these leaks.
There is far more to this story than what was reported.
Steve Rebuck San Luis Obispo
The Oceano airport needs to evolve
Oceano is a community divided—literally—by a land-heavy, low-utility, extremely costly fixed-wing airport: Oceano Airport L52. So, is closure the best option? We think not. We propose modernization over maintenance. It’s an option that will take us past the same tired story of Oceano being abused by wealthier interests with a blind eye to the environment and environmental/economic justice. Oceano Airport is geographically redundant. Within approximately 15 miles, we have two full-service regional airports in San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria. Just beyond are airports in Paso Robles, Lompoc, Santa Ynez, and New Cuyama. Maintaining a seventh fixed-wing runway in a coastal zone is no longer a strategic necessity; it is a luxury the disadvantaged community of Oceano should not be forced to subsidize with its coastal land.
The proposal is simple: The county must right-size the facility. By transitioning L52 into a dedicated helipad/vertiport, they preserve the modern and critical aeronautical functions and keep the “national system” intact while liberating at least 60 acres of prime coastal land for uses such as wetlands, solar, recreation, visitor services, housing, or, most important, a direct and safe route to the beach from downtown Oceano. The Coastal Act requires maximizing public access and protecting sensitive habitats. This underutilized, costly fixed-wing runway mainly serves a small number of hobbyists. This is not asking to “close” Oceano’s airport; this is asking to evolve it.
We urge the SLO County Board of Supervisors to help ensure that Oceano’s future is defined by public access and environmental justice, choosing modernization over maintenance.
Bonnie Ernst, Lucia Casalinuovo, and Allene Villa Oceano Beach Community Association
VOTE ONLINE AT WWW.SANTAMARIASUN.COM • SCAN TO GET TO ONLINE BALLOT
Voting Closes June 22 at 5pm
Anew challenge is before you, dear readers, and it’s all about trust—as in who do you trust to outserve, outshine, and outsmart the rest. Who is the Best of Northern Santa Barbara County? We’re not looking for any fake community idols here; we want the real deal. We need you to tell us who deserves to keep their torch lit. Vote for your favorite coffee shops, bars, restaurants, dentists, salons, and more—we’ve got categories for all of them!
DINE AND DEVOUR
No need to strategize or discuss it with the rest of your tribe. This challenge is yours alone.
Find the ballot online at santamariatimes.com. Remember, you need to complete at least 25 categories to make the cut.
Return this ballot to the Sun office, or complete the online ballot by Monday, June 22, at 5 p.m., and keep an eye out for our biggest issue of the year highlighting the sole survivors on Aug. 20.
Fluttering back Experience a dazzling array of tropical species in a nationally acclaimed butterfly garden.
Get out?
One Buellton motel owner finally made good on a promise he made to the city months ago: He sued them.
Farmhouse co-owner Kerry Moriarty is asking a court to nullify an ordinance the city passed earlier this year requiring the long-term housing Moriarty and his fellow co-owners’ have provided for years to revert back to regular ol’ motel rooms—“a materially different use that has not existed on the property for decades,” the lawsuit states.
Not only that, he wants the city to pay for his legal fees, too.
You can’t say he didn’t warn them! He made the threat more than once over the last year. The Farmhouse’s complaint alleges that the motel was specifically targeted by the city “based on redevelopment and aesthetic preferences, which do not constitute a legitimate zoning rationale.”
While four motels are part of the zoning area in question, “it has the practical effect of targeting just the Farmhouse.” It’s not a new argument. It’s the same argument Moriarty’s been making since 2025.
Buellton City Manager Scott Wolfe told the Sun earlier this year that the ordinance is unique, so I guess we will see what happens. The results of this lawsuit will set precedent.
A city will either be able to kick long-term residents out of converted motel units, or it won’t.
It sounds like Buellton also might want to kick the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office off the city’s payroll. And Solvang wants to do the same.
The two cities are unsatisfied with the law enforcement services they receive for how much they’re paying. The relationship between the
JOIN
sheriff and the cities has been rocky over the last half-decade or longer, with costs increasing in some years by more than 20 percent. So, they’re shopping around—in Lompoc.
During the current contract’s (2023-27) negotiations, all four cities the sheriff provides contracted services to wrote official dispute letters to the department over expenses they disagreed with, such as hundreds of thousands of dollars in fixed costs for something like a narcotics investigation, whether it’s conducted or not.
The Solvang City Council was reluctant to approve the contract but felt like it had no choice. “I can’t say with enough emphasis how frustrating it is to be confronted with the need to approve this agreement right now,” Elizabeth Orona said in 2023.
Since 2015, the amount Solvang pays for Sheriff’s Office services has doubled without any increase in services, without receiving any sort of performance metrics, without getting its law enforcement issues addressed.
In the 2026-27 fiscal year, Solvang will pay the Sheriff’s Office $3.4 million for one patrol car staffed 24/7 by 5.5 full-time equivalent deputies. The Lompoc Police Department spends $9 million a year on 51 police officers and 25 administrative staff, not to mention runs a jail, a dispatch center, fleet services, etc.
“Cost comparison, there’s no comparison,” Solvang City Manager Randy Murphy said. “We could have a third of his [Lompoc Police Chief Kevin Martin] department working in the city of Solvang for the same money.”
Seems like a no-brainer. Sheriff Bill Brown doesn’t know how to manage a budget—just ask the county Board of Supervisors—and he doesn’t seem to answer to anybody.
Time to move on. m
The Canary knows the grass is greener. Send pastureland to canary@santamariasun.com.
Photos by Gary Robinson
Hot Stuff
CHAKRA CLARITY
Dee DiGioia, founder of Mindful Kindful YOUniversity, will lead a Chakra Flow Sound Journey at Mystic Nature in Nipomo on Friday, June 12, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Experience a gentle enrichment, immersive sound journey, and reflection. Tickets range from $25.41 to $37.19. Head to my805tix.com for more information.
—Angie Stevens
ARTS
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
“ALONG THE HIGH EMBANKMENTS” AT PRESQU’ILE Los Angeles Nomadic Division and Presqu’ile present Cole Sternberg’s work along the high embankments, a free, self-guided installation. Saturdays, Sundays, 12-5 p.m. through Sept. 20 Free. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presquile Dr, Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.
BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE
CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. (805) 928-7799.
Kleindancesarts.com. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.
DANCE CLASSES There are weekly dance classes, from ages 2 to adult, at KleinDance Arts Mondays-Saturdays, 4-8 p.m. (805) 268-2530. kleindancearts.com. KleinDance Arts, 1954 S Broadway, Suite J, Santa Maria.
DANCE CLASSES: EVERYBODY CAN
DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, (805) 937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/.
FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17
Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. (805)
925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.
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
COME FROM AWAY Come From Away is a powerful, uplifting celebration of human kindness and the community we create when we welcome the unknown. Tuesdays-Sundays, 8-10 p.m. through June 27 $25. (805) 922-8313. pcpa.org. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.
PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT GRIMM’S BLUFF WINERY Join us at the exclusive Grimm’s Bluff Winery where you’ll post up next to the lake to grab a glass of wine and a paintbrush! June 6, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $92. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Grimm’s Bluff Winery, 5450 Kentucky Rd, Santa Ynez. SLOW ART WALKTHROUGH AND PICNIC LUNCH Throughout the 90-minute walkthrough, viewers are encouraged to spend five to 15 minutes with each artwork of their choosing. A lunch will follow! June 10 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $30. calnatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.
“WHEN THE EARTH WHISPERS BACK: NATURE’S HOPE” Woman Painters West, an organization of juried professional woman artists (100 + years old) were invited to exhibit at this museum creating paintings that answered their theme. See 48 paintings juried from 100 entries on view at the museum. Through Sept. 16 Canatureartmuseum.org. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
BASIC WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP
Claudette Carlton will be teaching two watercolor classes at Cypress Gallery. Go to lompoc-arts.com for a description and course requirements. June 13 9:30 a.m.noon $50. (805) 588-1640. lompocart.org. Lompoc Valley Art Association (Cypress Gallery), 119 E. Cypress, Lompoc. WATERCOLOR WORKS RECEPTION
Local artist Claudette Carlton invites you to her “Watercolor Works” reception at Cypress Gallery. This featured show can be viewed through June 28. June 6, 1-3 p.m. Free. (805) 588-1640. Lompoc Valley Art Association (Cypress Gallery), 119 E. Cypress, Lompoc, lompocart.org.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.
CINDERELLA AND PAQUITA Enjoy this rags-to-riches double bill of contemporary and classical ballets. June 6, 7-9 p.m. and June 7 3-5 p.m. $30. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
NORTH COUNTY CAMERA CLUB: REGULAR MEETING Zoom meeting for
The North County Camera Club, where photographers of all levels can participate, share photos, exchange information, and learn from each other. Second Tuesday of every month, 7-9 p.m. Free. facebook.com/ groups/PRAAphotoguild. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.
PULSE STUDIO OF THE ARTS PRESENTS: OFF THE CHARTS Get ready for an unforgettable night as Pulse Studio of the Arts proudly presents our end-ofseason showcase, Off the Charts. June 12 7 p.m. $35. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter. org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
WALT WHITMAN GAY MEN’S BOOK CLUB
This club reads, studies and discusses books chosen by the group which relate to their lives as gay men. All are welcome. Second Monday of every month, 7-9:30 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.
WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA
Check the venue’s calendar for storytelling workshops, lectures, movie nights, and discussions held on a periodic basis. ongoing thelavra.org/home. The Lavra, 2070 E. Deer Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
A GRAND NIGHT FOR SINGING Celebrate the timeless music of Rodgers and Hammerstein in a charming and elegant revue that reimagines the legendary duo’s most beloved songs, leaving audiences spellbound! 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 June 25 $28-$50. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/shows/a-grandnight-for-singing/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., 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 watercolor-based course, but one that branches out into other media. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $35 per class. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com.
Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
CENTRAL COAST COMEDY THEATER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW An ongoing improv comedy program featuring the CCCT’s Ensemble. Grab some food at the public market’s wonderful eateries and enjoy the show upstairs. Second Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. $10. centralcoastcomedytheater.com/shows/. SLO Public Market, 120 Tank Farm Road, San Luis Obispo.
CREATIVE KIDS: SUMMER BREAK WITH CAROLINA LUNA Creative Kids is continuing through summer! As always, we will be exploring a variety of mediums
throughout the series. This session will also introduce cyanotypes! Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. through Aug. 5 $150. (805) 7474200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
ELEMENTS OF ART FOR TWEENS AND TEENS WITH CAROLINA LUNA Join Carolina as she guides your young artists through the fundamentals of art. Each week will focus on a different element. All materials are provided. Wednesdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $200. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
EXHIBIT OPENING: ICON IN FLUX MYLR is hosting artist duo Zoya Lopata Dixon and Sam Lopata for their gallery Icon in Flux, inspired by the symbol of the American flag. June 5 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 439 -1611 x 111. mylrgallery.com/ exhibits. MYLR Gallery, 1238 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
FIRST FRIDAYS Visit SLOMA on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, music, and wines provided by regional winery partners. Admission is free and open to the public. First Friday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Free. (805) 5438562. sloma.org/events/first-fridays/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
FREE DOCENT TOURS Gain a deeper understanding of the artwork on view with SLOMA’s new docent tours. Every Saturday, join trained guides for interactive and engaging tours of SLOMA’s current exhibitions. Saturdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/visit/ tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. IMPROV PLAYGROUND Join Improv for Good at the Improv Playground! Enjoy quick games, silly scenarios, and genuine connection. All are welcome to play short
fun games. Second Thursday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. through Aug. 14 Free. (805) 5568495. improvforgood.fun/improv-playground.
Unitarian Universalist Church, 2201 Lawton Ave., 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.
PAINT A PREMADE POTTERY PIECE!
Drop into the studio to pick out and paint a premade piece! There is fun for all ages, and prices are based upon size. Mondays, Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2-7:30 p.m. $30-$75. app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner =22676824&appointmentType=35974477.
Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.
June 5 7 p.m., June 6, 3 & 7 p.m. and June 7, 3 p.m. $20. (805) 776-3287. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay, bytheseaproductions.org.
OCEAN ART PAINTING WORKSHOP Join acclaimed artists Wade Koniakowsky and Colleen Gnos for a two-day ocean wave and pelican painting workshop set along Morro Bay’s stunning Central Coast. June 11 1-5 p.m. and June 12 1-5 p.m. $385. (858) 354-9299. facebook. com/events/s/sign-up-forocean-art-painting /1608618057099891/. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.
ORANGE CRUSH EXHIBIT
PETER KRASHES: PASSAGE THROUGH New York–based artist Peter Krashes’ first solo exhibition on the West Coast, uses paintings of daily experience in an ever-changing world. Thursdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through June 28 Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ peter-krashes/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
PICKET PAINTING PARTY Decorative picket purchasing opportunities are available to show your support and help fund maintenance and educational programs in the Children’s Garden.
Second Saturday of every month, 1-4 p.m. $75 per picket or 2 for $100. (805) 541-1400. slobg. org. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo.
PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@ yahoo.com). Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.
SLO COMEDY UNDERGROUND OPEN MIC
NIGHT Enjoy a night of laughs provided by the local SLO Comedy Community. It’s open mic night, so anyone can perform and “you never know what you’ll see.” Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Free. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337, libertinebrewing.com.
SLO NIGHTWRITERS: A COMMUNITY OF WRITERS SLO NightWriters supports local writers with monthly presentations, critique groups, contests, and other events. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. slonightwriters.org. United Church of Christ (Congregational) of San Luis Obispo, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, 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. slogallery.com/. SLO Gallery, 1023 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.
NEWLAND, AND THOMAS BROWN Meet the artists and explore four new exhibitions in a relaxed waterfront setting. Enjoy light refreshments and conversation. All are welcome. June 13 3-5 p.m. Free. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.
FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.
LOVE LETTERS See this staged reading of the play by A.R. Gurney, directed by Sheridan Cole. Childhood friends maintain a life-long relationship through correspondence, featuring Laura Richie and Larry Barnes.
Come to the gallery and explore the emotion of orange: the energy, heat, joy—expect to see diverse artistic expressions, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. Through June 22, 12-4 p.m. Free. (805) 7722504. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, artcentermorrobay.org.
THE PLEIN AIR TEAM
ART WITH CLAUDETTE
Local artist Claudette Carlton will lead an Introduction to Watercolor class at Cypress Gallery in Lompoc on Saturday, June 13, from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Learn basic watercolor techniques and hone your color-mixing and brush-use skills. The class is $50 and limited to six individuals who are 16 years and older.
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) 7729955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.
Head to lompocart.org for more details.
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
ADOPT A PET DAY Find your next companion at Adopt A Pet Day, featuring fee-waived dog, cat, puppy, and kitten adoptions. June 6, 12-5 p.m. Santa Barbara Humane - Santa Maria Campus, 1687 W. Stowell Rd, Santa Maria, (805) 964-4777, sbhumane.org.
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, 8:309:30 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. ORCUTT MINERAL SOCIETY Second Tuesday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750.
SANTA MARIA TOASTMASTERS Develop your public speaking skills at this club meeting. Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. (805) 570-0620. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria. SMKA 2026 KART RACING SEASON
Participate in this local kart racing series, featuring kid karts, LO206, and two-cycle classes, delivering competitive sprint racing, driver development, and family-friendly events
Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 905-9274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande. BODY FUSION/EXERCISE AND FITNESS CLASS Do something good for yourself and stay fit for outdoor sports, while enhancing flexibility, strengthening your core to prevent lower back issues, improving your posture through yoga, and more. Tuesdays, Thursdays, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. (970) 710-1412. Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach, avilabeachcc.com.
CHAKRA FLOW SOUND JOURNEY: NIPOMO Join Dee DiGioia, founder of Mindful Kindful YOUniversity, during a gentle enrichment, immersive sound journey, and reflection. June 12 6-7:30 p.m. $25.41-$37.19. my805tix.com. Mystic Nature, 330 W. Tefft, Unit E, Nipomo.
COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY
for all skill levels. June 14 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $10. smka.org. Santa Maria Karting Association, 3951 S Blosser Rd, Santa Maria, (805) 464-6114.
WEBINAR: ELECTRIFY YOUR HOME Local experts will break down the how and why of transitioning to an electric home—and guide you through the process. June 10 2-3 p.m. Free. tinyurl.com/E-homewebinar. Online Webinar, Compliance Key,364 E Main Street, Suite 1009, Middletown, (717) 208-8666.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
SYV PRIDE PARADE AND FESTIVAL Produced by Santa Ynez Valley nonprofit, SYV Pride, the 5th annual SYV Pride Parade & Festival is a family-friendly event in downtown Solvang. June 13 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (877) 327-2656. syvpride.org/. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
AFTERNOON BINGO Bingo with potluck. Parking in rear. Buy one of everything for $20. Guests can participate without bringing food. Look forward to a fun afternoon. Second Tuesday of every month, 12-4 p.m. All games are $1 each. (805) 736-6669. Valley of Flowers Half-Century Club, 341 No. N St., Lompoc.
LOMPOC ART WALK Lompoc transforms into a celebration and showcase of local artists during this monthly event, which features live music, art, exciting exhibitions, performances, and a variety of unique vendors. First Thursday of every month, 5-8 p.m. Old Town Lompoc, H and I St., Lompoc.
THE VILLAGE TREASURE CHEST This event is for the whole family. There will be vendors selling their wears, music, facepainting, and some kind of food booth. Come out and spend part of your Saturday supporting local vendors. First Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Vandenberg Village Community Services District Office, 3745 Constellation Road, Lompoc, (805) 291-6370.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. ongoing Starts at $70. (805) 835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.
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.
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. DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) 280-5800. margotschaal.com/qigong. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande. DANCE FITNESS ART AND CULTURE FOR ADULTS Discover dance as a form of artistic expression and exercise, using a wide range of styles and genres of music (including modern, jazz, Broadway, ethnic). Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail.com for details and reservations. ongoing (805) 619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
HOUSEPLANT HAPPINESS WORKSHOP
This free seminar will empower you with important basics on plants and their needs, basics will better your ability to grow any plant. June 7, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Free. (805) 270-4083. theplantedparlour.com. The Planted Parlour, 592 W Grand Ave., Grover Beach.
LA CONVERSACIÓN Join La Conversación, a group for practicing spoken Spanish. There is no homework or lessons, just conversation. Thursdays, 9-11:30 a.m. Free. Greenhouse Coffee Company, 1064 E Grand Av, Arroyo Grande, (805) 825-1345.
MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30 -6:30 p.m. $10 drop-in; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.
CA
The Brothers Comatose
Charlie Musselwhite & GA-20
Neal Francis•Jackie Venson
Renée Christine•Las Cafeteras
Uncle Lucius•Emily Nenni
Emily Brimlow•Slap Dragon
Francesca Blanchard
Marty O'Reilly•J & the Causeways
The Sam Chase & the Untraditional Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band
Mestizo Beat•Parlor Greens
SambaDá•Jiia & Anahita B2B
The Mother Corn Shuckers•B & the Hive
Amalia Fleming•Natalie Haskins
The Cheeseballs•Grambo•Dubwise Collective
Electric Lavender•Big Mable & the Portholes Low Power Trio•MC Joe Craven
Ynana Rose•Phil Salazar
Miss Leo & Captain Kirk•Don Norton
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52
Come join a friendly meeting of watch and clock collectors. Members bring watches and clocks to show, plus there are discussions of all things horological.
Second Sunday of every month, 1:30-3 p.m. (805) 547-1715. new.nawcc.org/index.
php/chapter-52-los-padres. Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano.
NIPOMO LIBRARY 30TH ANNIVERSARY
PARTY Enjoy a free BBQ lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., plus cake, crafts, face painting, seed planting, and a summer reading kickoff. June 10 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. sanluisobispo.librarycalendar.com/event/ summer-kick-bbq-nipomo-library-28550.
Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo, (805) 929-3994.
PISMO STATE BEACH SANDCASTLE
COMPETITION Pismo State Beach and the Central Coast State Parks Association welcome you to the 3rd annual Sandcastle Comp! There are limited build plots left. Spectators are welcome! June 13 8 a.m. -1 p.m. Free. (805) 474-2664. Pismo State Beach, W. Grand Avenue, Grover Beach.
POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE TOURS
A docent-led tour of the buildings and grounds of the historic Point San Luis Light Station. Check website for more details. Wednesdays, Saturdays pointsanluislighthouse.org/. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.
Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 1118. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.
QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages
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. SANCTUARY DAY AT GREENER PASTURES FARM SANCTUARY Meet the rescued farm animals of Greener Pastures Farm Sanctuary. Learn their stories or triumph, and their quirky and sweet personalities. June 6 12-2, 12:30-2 & 1-2 p.m. $15. (805) 704-7327. Greener Pastures Farm Sanctuary, 2148 S. Halcyon Rd., Arroyo Grande, GreenerPasturesSanctuary.org.
SOCIAL GROUP FOR WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS Call for more details. Second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. (805) 904-6615. Oak Park Christian Church, 386 N Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach.
STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi Gong boosts energy and vitality, reduces stress, improves balance and flexibility, and, best of all, is fun. Join instructor Devin Wallace for this Crows End Retreat outdoor class, which is held in a beautiful setting. Call or email for location and to reserve a spot. Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande. SUMMER BLAST CAMP 2026 Join us for our full week of Camp which includes tennis lessons, pickleball lessons, swimming, arts and crafts, marital arts class, and much more! Mondays-Fridays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. through Aug. 7 $395-$445. (805) 595-7600 ex 113. Avila Bay Athletic Club and Spa, 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, avilabayclub.com.
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,
Resources Association of the Central Coast meeting. June 9 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $15-$40. hrcentralcoast.org. Madonna Inn Garden Room, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.
30-DAY BREATH AND RESET JOURNEY FOR WOMEN Wired at night, drained all day? Reset your body in 30 days. Focus on breath practices to calm stress, sleep deeply, and restore lasting energy. Registration is required. Tuesdays, 6:30 -7:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody.com. Live Webinar, online, SLO County. CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.
CENTRAL COAST
DIALYSIS ORGAN
TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:30-11:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo.
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. 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. THE SLO FLOWER COLLECTIVE WEEKLY FLOWER MARKET Enjoy an amazing weekly fresh flower market, open to the public. Enjoy the historic gardens
TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. 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. TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP
This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated support group to be heard, share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like your own. Second Tuesday of every month, 6-8 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
skills, and having fun. Through Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $450. my805tix.com. Morro Bay Yacht Club, 541 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, (805) 772-3981.
MORRO BAY METAPHYSICIANS
DISCUSSION GROUP A group of metaphysically minded individuals that have been meeting for many years now in the Coalesce Chapel. Club offers a supportive metaphysical based community. Members discuss a different topic each week. All are welcome to join. Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10-$15. Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St., Morro Bay, coalescebookstore.com/.
SEAWEED SUNDAY Join sanctuary staff for June’s Discovery Program to learn about different seaweeds and create your own unique sun print! June 7 1:30-3:30 p.m. Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay, CA-1 and SLO San Simeon Road, San Simeon, (805) 927-2145.
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.
WATERFRONT MARKET MORRO BAY
The Waterfront Market returns for its 9th summer season in Morro Bay. This openair market features over 30 local vendors from SLO County. Through June 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 402-9437. facebook.com/ waterfrontmarketmorrobayca. Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay.
FOOD & DRINK
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. SECOND SATURDAY OPEN AIR
MARKET: LOS ALAMOS A carefully curated open air artisan and farm market. Features great vintage finds, handwoven and hand dyed textiles, hand-spun yarn, organic body care products, and locally grown organic eats. Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 722-4338. Sisters Gifts and Home, 349 Bell Street, Los Alamos.
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)
SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS
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. 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.
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
“S” IS FOR SUMMER DANCE! Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens presents a “S” is for Summer Dance, with live music by the Riptide Big Band and vocalists. June 14 1:30-4 p.m. Free. (775) 813-5186. RiptideBB.com. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.
HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.
LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 623-5129, stellerscellar.com.
MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.
MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic.com/Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., 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 BarnWine Estate, 795 Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
PETTY PARTY Petty Party delivers a high-energy, heartfelt tribute to one of the most iconic catalogs in rock history. June 14, 3-5 p.m. $35. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest.org/show-listing. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.
WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. Hwy 246, Buellton, (805) 686-1208, brickbarnwineestate.com.
LOMPOC/VANDENBERG
KARAOKE AT COLD COAST BREWING CO. Pick out a song, bring your friends, and get ready to perform. Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m. COLD Coast Brewing Company, 118 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc, (805) 819-0723, coldcoastbrewing.com.
MUSIC continued page 21
LAKESIDE WINE
The Atascadero Lakeside Winefest is set for Saturday, June 13, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Pavilion on the Lake. Expect 100 wines from more than 60 wineries, live music from local Central Coast bands, and food and drink. Admission is $87.54. Additional details can be found at my805tix.com.
—A.S.
SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY
CELEBRATING QUEEN Celebrating Queen is a Las Vegas-based Queen tribute band, and have also toured extensively in Europe, as well as playing many high profile festivals. June 13 , 7:30 p.m. $34$60. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
EASTON EVERETT Listen to guitarwoven, neo-folk pop, noteworthy singing and writing, easy to listen to and also surprises. June 6, 1-4 p.m. Blacklake Golf Course, 1490 Golf Course Lane, Nipomo.
FAULTLINE BAND LIVE The hottest new band in the Central Coast is playing live at Rancho Nipomo. Enjoy great BBQ and great music, and dance to top classic hits. June 13 6-9 p.m. Free. (805) 925-3500. ranchonipomobbq.com. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo.
KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY A weekly event with barbecue offerings and more. Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. Rancho Nipomo BBQ, 108 Cuyama Ln., Nipomo, (805) 925-3500.
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.
PACIFIC BREEZE CONCERTS IN
PISMO BEACH This concert series is a three-show summer event featuring exceptional regional musical groups and special family-friendly activities in one of Pismo Beach’s most scenic settings. Second Sunday of every month, 1-4 p.m. through July 12. Free.
(805) 773-7063. pismobeach.org/73/ Recreation. Dinosaur Caves Park, 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach.
POSTCARDS FROM ARMENIA Music For Unity presents Postcards From Armenia, an evening of memory, longing, and musical homecoming. June 11 7-8 p.m. $39.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.
REEL TOO REAL ROCKS MULLIGANS!
Ease into the weekend as Reel to Real rocks Mulligans Avila Beach. Listen to great ‘80s, ‘90s, and alt sounds with lawnside ocean and sunset views, and food and drink. June 5, 5-7 p.m. (805) 595-4000. avilabeachresort.com. Mulligans Bar & Grill, 6460 Ana Bay Road, Avila Beach.
SŌLEFFECT AT MULLIGANS BAR & GRILL
Sōleffect is live at Mulligan’s in Avila Beach for great music and coastal vibes. June 7 5-7 p.m. Free. soleffect.bandzoogle.com. Mulligans Bar & Grill, 6460 Ana Bay Road, Avila Beach, (805) 595-4000.
THURSDAY NIGHT MUSIC IN THE PARK
Free concerts with SLO County Band at Rancho Grande Park. June 11 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/rec. Rancho Grande Park, 500 James Way, Arroyo Grande.
SAN LUIS OBISPO
CAL POLY SPRING JAZZ CONCERT: SOUNDS OF HARMONY Hear performances by the University Jazz Band and Vocal Jazz Ensemble, directed by Jamaal Baptiste, and the Jazz Combos, directed by Dylan Johnson. June 5, 7:30 p.m. $12-$22. (805) 756-4849. music. calpoly.edu/calendar/jazz/#spring. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.
CAL POLY SYMPHONY AND CHOIRS CONCERT: SYMPHONIC EXPRESSIONS
Cal Poly’s Choirs and Symphony will present two monumental symphonic works for choir and orchestra: Stravinsky’s “Symphony of Psalms” and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 June 6, 7:30 p.m. $12-$22. (805) 756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/ calendar/symph/#spring. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.
CENTRAL COAST GILBERT & SULLIVAN
PRESENTS: THE SORCERER Central Coast Gilbert & Sullivan proudly presents “The Sorcerer”. This light opera, directed by Marcy Irving, will be accompanied by a local live professional orchestra. June 6 3 p.m. and June 7 3 p.m. $30-$30. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.
EASTON EVERETT Enjoy guitar-woven neo folk pop, noteworthy singing and writing, easy to listen to and also surprises. June 5 6-8 p.m. Farmhouse Corner Market, 1025 Farmhouse Ln Ste 1G San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, San Luis Obispo, (805) 465-7900. Guitar-woven neo-folk pop, noteworthy singing and writing, easy to listen to and also surprises. June 7, 1-4 p.m. Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards, 1947 See Canyon Rd., San Luis Obispo, (805) 595-9700.
NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY
SEA SHANTIES AT THE DOCKSIDE The Morro Bay Shanty Project will perform historical (and hysterical) songs of the sea. Enjoy lunch and sing along. Tips benefit the Morro Bay Maritime Museum. June 5 11 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Dockside Restaurant, 1245 Embarcadero bay front, Morro Bay, (805) 772-8100. m
Featured Events
ARTS BRIEFS
Celebrate Pride Prom in Buellton
Disco. Glitz. Grunge. Y2K. It’s Pride Prom Through the Ages.
The Tavern at Zaca Creek in Buellton will host the event on June 12, which benefits Santa Ynez Valley Pride and House of Pride and Equality. Pride Prom is meant to give members of the LGBTQ-plus community a safe space to show up as their authentic selves and celebrate queer joy.
“Whether you never got the prom you deserved or you’re just ready for an unforgettable night with your community, this is your moment,” the organizations announced.
From throwback favorites to today’s hits, DJ Darla Bea will take care of the tunes. Pre-purchase dance requests if there’s one song you can’t make it through the night without hearing. Dancers may dress up in their favorite era, as the theme suggests, but are also welcome to embody their own representation of Pride Prom Through the Ages.
Guests 21 years and older are invited to join the party from 7 to 11 p.m. General admission costs $20 and includes appetizers. Drinks are available for purchase, and The Tavern is providing complimentary shuttle rides after the event to designated drop-off locations. Reserve rides online before the dance.
Buy tickets and sponsorships online at givebutter.com/ prideprom2026. The Tavern is located at 1297 Jonata Park Road in Buellton.
For a full list of Santa Ynez Valley Pride’s June activities, visit syvpride.org or follow on Instagram @syv.pride.
Santa Ynez performers present An Invitation to Dance
In its 37th season, the Santa Ynez Valley Performing Arts Company is proud to present An Invitation to Dance. Summer performances will be held at the Santa Ynez High School Little Theater on June 17, 18, and 20 starting at 7 p.m. each night.
“This presentation showcases the elegance and refinement of ballet and lyrical, the excitement and fun of jazz and tap, and trendy hip-hop,” according to press materials. “All of these styles will be set to a tapestry of sounds ranging from pure classical ballet and opera music to iconic Broadway show tunes.”
Some dancers are performing for the first time, while others are celebrating many years with the studio.
Christine Fossemalle, the studio’s artistic director and owner, feels it’s her responsibility to teach dance traditions to the next generation. Plus, it’s her passion.
“I’m so happy, and I have a lot of people who really appreciate what I’m doing, so it’s very rewarding,” she told the Sun in December.
Along with the students, Fossemalle and four other choreographers dedicated time to make the show possible, too.
Buy tickets online for the performances at tixtree.com/o/ syvpac. Read more about the dance group by visiting fossemalledancestudio.com. m
Mic’s up for grabs
The Maverick Saloon hosts Pride-themed karaoke nights for the fifth year in a row
BY MADISON WHITE
Standing in the parking lot of The Maverick Saloon in Santa Ynez, you might not expect it to be a hot spot for Pride events. The Western, honky-tonk bar adorned with wooden barn-style siding is typically known for hosting country bands and line dancing.
But, after having a seat at one of the familystyle tables, guests start to feel the welcoming, comfortable atmosphere that’s home to one of the valley’s recurring Pride Month hits.
Sam Silva, a bartender and karaoke host at The Maverick, said that despite the “hillbilly hoedown” aesthetic, inclusivity is all around.
Look at the bathroom doors. Instead of gendered signs, there are pictures of aliens and a phrase along the lines of, “We don’t care what you are, just wash your hands.”
While those signs are up year-round, the bar transforms in June with weekly events called “gayraoke.” This will be Silva’s fifth year DJing the sets.
“It’s kind of a bridge for the community to interact on fun terms,” Silva said. “People are gay. Deal with it. People are straight. Deal with it. As long as we’re willing to stand up for each other and all that stuff, it shouldn’t matter.”
This year is extra special because there are five weekends in June instead of four. Plus, staff will be opening both bars for the first time, which is a “big deal” because it shows how successful gayraoke has been. Silva (aka @samcrazypants onstage) believes the event brings people together even if they normally wouldn’t find themselves in a gay-themed experience.
Gayraoke is one of Santa Ynez Valley Pride’s staple community activities throughout June. It originated as an idea between the DJ and Alyce Barrick, the vice president of the board and a founding member of the nonprofit. When not conducting board duties, Barrick runs Queen Cup Coffee, an inclusive coffee truck in Los Olivos. According to Silva, she had the idea to name it gayraoke.
Every Tuesday night has a dress-up theme. The first gayraoke this year was ’80s night. Then starting on June 9, the themes are space rave, Catalina wine mixer, goth night, and burlesque. The last gayraoke on June 30 also features a drag show.
“I’m definitely most excited for the burlesque,” Silva said. “I’m excited to see what our drag performers pull out because they seem really excited.”
DJing karaoke is a little different than a traditional set at a nightclub. It’s more of a live experience for the DJ, Silva described, because he must listen to what the crowd wants. At a club, the DJ likely prepared the
Calling all singers
Put yourself out there at the Maverick Saloon during gayraoke on Tuesday nights in June at 8 p.m. located at 3687 Sagunto St. in Santa Ynez. Follow karaoke DJ Sam Silva on Instagram @samcrazypants.
For more information about Santa Ynez Valley Pride activities, visit syvpride.org or check out @syv.pride on Instagram.
set at home and then replays it onstage while adding transitions and other effects.
“Instead of building a whole set that I’m basically just playing back, I’m DJing a live set, so it’s more in the moment,” Silva said.
He starts karaoke off the same way most nights by taking the mic first. The small crowd at the beginning of the night might be shy, so Silva will sing first. But the DJ reminds them that now is the best time for nervous performers because not many people are around yet.
Silva’s go-to tune lately has been “Ordinary” by Alex Warren or “Lose Control” by Teddy Swims, but Bruno Mars is always a good choice, too. If still nobody comes up, he’ll make fellow coworkers at The Maverick sing.
No matter how slow the start is, as soon as a couple of people from the crowd face their fears, the ball really gets rolling. The No. 1 rule for Silva is to have fun, not hit all the notes perfectly.
Once the party gets going, the vibes get hotter. The further into June it gets, more and more gay anthems are played. Although Silva would’ve sprinkled them in during any other month, too.
“No matter what, if I’m playing, there’s always going to be some of that in there because I am who I am, and I’m unapologetically myself about it,” Silva said. “By the end of the month, it’s just basically a techno gay nightclub.”
One of Silva’s favorite parts of leading karaoke is interacting with the crowd. It’s another difference from traditional DJs, whose only words of the night could be, “I’m here Friday and Saturday.” Bantering with everyone in the bar makes the energy contagious.
“I love talking smack to people, and I love when they talk smack back. It’s a show,” Silva said. “When people see other people having fun, they want to participate.”
Of course, partying during Pride is a highlight, Silva added, but on a deeper level, the month is a time to support the LGBTQ-plus community. For him, June is about building bridges not walls. He wants the queer community to support each other internally and for everyone else to “live and let live.”
“Just seeing that something I had a hand in putting on brought that many people together and they’re there because I’m doing this event,” Silva said, “I can’t really ask for anything more than that.” m
Staff Writer Madison White would no doubt (poorly) cover a Chappell Roan song at gayraoke. Send your selections to mwhite@santamariasun.com.
COURTESY FILE PHOTO BY MICHELLE LAUREN
DUETS WELCOMED: The Maverick Saloon in Santa Ynez hosts karaoke nights every Tuesday. In June, a Pride Month theme takes over, nicknaming the event “gayraoke.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF FOSSEMALLE DANCE STUDIO
SAM CRAZY PANTS: Sam Silva, a karaoke host and bartender at The Maverick, leads gayraoke on Tuesday nights in June. This is the fifth year the bar is hosting the event, and he’s been involved since the beginning.
HONKY-TONK MEETS THE RAINBOW: Gayraoke nights are meant to be a bridge for the community, blasting queer anthems in a Santa Ynez bar typically known for country music and line dancing.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SAM SILVA
Liminal spaces
YouTuber Kane Parsons (aka Kane Pixels) directs his script co-written with Will Soodik (Ash vs Evil Dead) about Clark (Chiwetel Ejiolfor), a failed architect in therapy who owns a floundering furniture store. When Clark disappears into another dimension through a portal in the rear of his store’s basement, his therapist, Dr. Mary Kline (Renate Reinsve) must venture into the alternate reality to save him. (110 min.)
film made me remember The Blair Witch Project (1999), The Dead Zone (1983), and Altered States (1980). Backrooms is interesting, thought provoking, and has a few scares, but ultimately, I found it gimmicky.
BACKROOMS
What’s it rated? R
Glen: Aside from music videos, I have little use for YouTube, and aside from the Slender Man mythos, I know next to nothing about creepypasta, so I’m probably not the target audience for this film. Apparently, the concept of “backrooms” can be traced to a Reddit post. The idea is that these rooms are psychological “in-between” zones. My interpretation is that they represent a person’s subconscious mind. So anyway, Clark retreats into his subconscious. Inside, he sees fragmented memories—a room with a pile of furniture or clothes, chairs strewn randomly, a stop sign, people who look like Picasso’s cubist period. The idea is our memories are flawed and fragmented, so our memory of a person is multidimensional and inaccurate. Likewise, the floor plan of the space seems to change. I don’t want to reveal a bunch of spoilers, but I will say, watching the
THE CRASH
What’s it rated? TV-MA
When? 2026
Where’s it showing? Netflix
What’s it worth, Anna? Matinee
What’s it worth, Glen? Matinee
Anna: I too immediately thought of The Blair Witch Project. The first minutes of the film and the “found footage” feel unfortunately predictable and lack the novel experience that its predecessor managed to create. I like a good scare, and even more so I love suspense, but while this managed to keep me entertained, nothing about it really grabbed me. The actors were good, the setting was creepy, but there just wasn’t much beyond that. Maybe I haven’t fallen far enough into my own subconscious to have it be monumentally insightful, but it mostly feels like a trick—and not one that was particularly well executed.
Where’s it showing? Regal Edwards
RPX Santa Maria, Movies Lompoc, Regal Edwards Arroyo Grande
Glen: Both Ejiolfor and Reinsve turned in committed performances, and I liked that we learn in flashback more about Dr. Mary Kline’s childhood and her troubled and paranoic mother. Like The Cabin in the Woods (2011), we discover there’re people watching from afar. We eventually meet one, Phil (Mark Dupluss), but if you’re hoping for answers to this mystery, there aren’t any forthcoming. There’s a little gore, and the setting is uncanny. I’m sure for a certain set of people, this confounding film will be enthralling. I’m
glad I saw it, but I didn’t drive me to want to follow Kane Pixel’s YouTube channel.
Anna: I think it suffers a bit from believing it’s cleverer than it turns out to be. The backstories do help, like when we watch Mary and Clark roleplay during a therapy session as Clark and his wife. Turns out the seemingly quiet and meek Clark is harboring some dark thoughts. I wasn’t sure where this film was going all along, what the reveal would be—if there was one. Turns out it was kind of anticlimactic, although tense. I’ll give it up for the actors though; they
turned out some high tension and fear. I’m sure this film will hit with a certain audience; I just don’t think that I’m it. Given the fervor that films like The Blair Witch Project had back in its heyday, maybe this is a sneaker hit that I just don’t see coming. It’s watchable, but not terribly compelling. Its visuals, for me, were the most engaging. Story wise, I wanted more. m
New Times Arts Editor Glen Starkey and freelancer Anna Starkey write Sun Screen. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
Mackenzie and Dominic were high school sweethearts. He was a couple of years older, but they were tied at the hip from day one, according to those who knew them. Mackenzie was just finishing up high school, but the two were already living together. One night after attending a graduation party, Mackenzie, Dominic, and their friend Davion Flannigan piled into her car in the wee hours of the morning. What happens next is brutal to watch. CCTV footage shows the car hurtling into a brick building without hesitation. The car was travelling at more than 100 miles per hour. Only Mackenzie, the driver, survived—but with serious injuries. What seemed like a terrible accident felt unexplained to those who love the two dead men. Sure enough, a murder trial ensues, pointing to Mackenzie’s online presence and the couple’s text threads as evidence of a far darker truth.
Diving into the evidence found within the car, Mackenzie’s past, and testimony from those closest to the victims, this documentary is a full-faced look at what can go wrong within the teenage mind. Why would she do this?
NEMESIS
What’s it rated? TV-MA
When? 2026
Where’s it showing? Netflix
Created by Courtney A. Kemp and Tani Marole, this series feels like a real ’80s throwback. I almost abandoned the first episode midway because the dialogue was so cheesy and melodramatic. It follows workaholic LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division Lt. Isaiah Stiles (Matthew Law), who’s haunted by the death of his brother, a fellow cop, and who’s at odds with his formerly criminal father, Amos “Nightmare” Stiles (Moe Irvin). Isaiah’s wife, Candace (Gabrielle Dennis), and teenage son, Noah (Cedric Joe), feel neglected.
Meanwhile, master thief Coltrane Wilder (Y’lan Noel) and his crew have been pulling off audacious heists, but Coltrane’s wife, Ebony (Cleopatra Coleman), wants out of the life even as Coltrane’s crew is pushing him to pull more jobs. Things heat up when Isaiah sets his sights on Coltrane and his crew, believing they were responsible for his brother’s death.
It’s unknown, but no matter her guilt or innocence, her life will be behind bars years for to come. (92 min.)
—Anna
I’m glad I stuck with it, because this is highly stylized, gleefully fun entertainment. Sure, some of the dialogue is groaninducing. A total of seven writers penned the various episodes, and four directors, including Mario Van Peebles, directed two
Stay informed about Northern Santa Barbara County. Breaking news, insightful opinions, and local event updates sent directly to your inbox every Thursday morning.
BASEMENT FEARS: Based on a YouTube anthological creepypasta video series, Backrooms stars Chiwetel Ejiolfor as Clark, a furniture store owner who finds a portal to a vast and weird series of interconnected rooms, screening in theaters.
episodes each. The filmmakers clearly believe Netflix will greenlight a second season. They ended this one with an infuriating cliffhanger. (eight 56-to-63-min. episodes) m —Glen
PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX
AFTERMATH: First responders examine the wreckage after 17-year-old Mackenzie Shirilla smashed her car into a brick wall, killing her boyfriend and his friend, in The Crash, streaming on Netflix.
FACEOFF: LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division Lt. Isaiah Stiles (Matthew Law, left) is determined to take down master thief Coltrane Wilder (Y’lan Noel), in Nemesis, streaming on Netflix.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX
The
Santa Maria Joint Union
High School District
Special Education - Child Find
The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) seeks to identify, locate, and evaluate high school age students suspected of having a disability who may be eligible for special education services designed to meet their educational needs at no cost to families. This includes students that are highly mobile, migrant, experiencing homelessness, students that are wards of the state, and students attending private schools located within SMJUHSD boundaries. If you suspect your child has a disability, contact the school special education department or district office Special Education Department.
Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)
El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas
Preparatorias de Santa Maria
Educación Especial - Búsqueda de Estudiantes
El Distrito Unificado de Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria (SMJUHSD) busca identificar, localizar y evaluar a los estudiantes en edad de escuela preparatoria sospechosos de tener una discapacidad que puede ser elegible para servicios de educación especial diseñados para satisfacer sus necesidades educativas sin costo alguno para las familias. Esto incluye a los estudiantes que son altamente móviles, migrantes, sin hogar, estudiantes que están bajo la tutela del estado, y los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas privadas ubicadas dentro los limites de SMJUHSD. Si sospecha que su hijo tiene una discapacidad, comuníquese con el departamento de educación especial de la escuela u oficina de Educación Especial del distrito SMJUHSD.
Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)
Knives out
A Guadalupe butcher cuts up quality meats for barbecuers on the Central Coast
BY MADISON WHITE
Ernesto Valle used to be known as the guy who cuts meat in the middle of nowhere. He opened Lobo Butcher Shop in Guadalupe four and a half years ago when the economy was still hurting from the pandemic.
“For a couple months, I thought I was going to shut down in my first year,” Valle told the Sun one sunny afternoon.
At the time, he said he was the only one in the area selling hand-sliced steaks and homemade sausages.
The business owner was used to working behind the meat counter for a mom-and-pop shop in Goleta near his native Santa Barbara. A couple of years after he left that work, Valle’s wife noticed he wasn’t as happy.
She told him she could see the change in his attitude because he wasn’t doing what he loved. Finally, she said, “You should just open your own shop already.”
Now, Valle is known as the guy who owns Lobo Butcher Shop. People travel to Guadalupe from across the Central Coast, the owner said, to buy cuts of meat. The business is his passion, reminding him of childhood Sunday barbecues with his dad cooking tri-tip.
A little more than a year ago, Valle and his business partner, Sergio Bustos, bought a food trailer to expand their opportunities. Valle caters private events in the community and regularly pops up at Coastal Bites on Wednesday nights in Santa Maria’s Machado Plaza. The pair is also working on paperwork for San Luis Obispo County health permits to conduct more business up north.
No matter where he goes, interacting with the community is important
to the butcher. Valle takes pride in running an old-school style shop. Using machines as little as possible, he and Bustos trim everything by hand.
“We cut the meat right in front of them, take it from the back and put it on a cutting board,” Valle said. “Whatever size they want.”
Many are repeat customers. Coming up on five years, Valle has gotten to know local families in the community. Some feel comfortable sending their kids to pick up an order.
Lobo also supplies youth sports teams, fire houses, and veterans’ groups.
The butcher lives in Orcutt but discovered the empty space while visiting his in-laws, who lived in Guadalupe.
“I really like the small town. Here in Guadalupe, it’s a small town, big heart,” Valle said.
One way he shows support is by keeping costs low. If his prices aren’t lower than Costco’s, he explained, they’re equal.
Raw combo packs are popular among his customers. One recent weekly deal at the end of May listed 3 pounds of short ribs, three sausages, and 10 jalapeño poppers for $50.
Another package came with eight tri-tip patties, three sausages, and 10 poppers for $35.
“We try to make barbecue pack deals because that’s usually what people do,” Valle said. “They want a little bit of everything on the grill.”
He still handmakes sausages from pork shoulder, grinding the meat and blending in seasoning. Valle makes around 18 blends of spices, including one named after Guadalupe for his signature jalapeño bratwurst. Then
Craving a rack? Lobo Butcher Shop is located in Roy’s Liquor and Market at 770 Guadalupe St. in Guadalupe. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. See Facebook or Instagram for weekly specials and combo packs. The Lobo food trailer is available for catering. Visit for lunch during the week for cooked tri-tip,
chicken, and pulled pork. Call (805) 268-1510 with questions.
each batch is finished in his linking machine.
Another cut he’s known for is tri-tip ranchera, a less expensive alternative to regular ranchera. The butcher cuts it super thin, and it has the same marbling because it’s choice grade.
“It tastes like ranchera to me, honestly,” Valle said. “I tested it out. I fooled my wife and her family.”
In a normal week, Valle eats tri-tip four or five times, he guessed. People ask if he gets tired of it, but he doesn’t.
He’s in the right place. People love his Santa Maria style tri-tip, too. Lobo Butcher Shop goes through eight to 10 cases every week in the summer. With 16 cuts per case, that’s up to 160 tri-tips a week.
Tri-tip also shows up on the menu
for the Lobo burger at the food trailer, which also features hot dogs, chicken, pulled pork, and ribs.
Admittedly a butcher not a chef, Valle puts extra care into his cooking. He’s working on redoing the trailer’s menu, set to debut in June. He’s especially excited for one item.
“It’s going to be called the cheesy tri,” he described. “You put the cheese on the flat top, and you put the bread on top of it. It’s kind of like a grilled cheese, but then you put tri-tip inside.”
The new menu will arrive just before Lobo’s busiest times of the year: Fourth of July. When needed, Valle asks family members to help at the trailer if demand is high.
From the beginning it’s always been a business rooted in family.
The name Lobo is inspired by his crew of childhood friends. They call themselves the wolf pack, and no matter how many months have passed, they can still get together and have a good time.
“I know [lobo] means wolf in Spanish, but to me it’s like family. Everybody that we grew up with,” Valle said. “I have my ‘brother.’ He helps me. I’ve known him for like 30 years, so I call him my brother. … How many people can say they’ve known somebody for 30 years?”
For anyone who steps into his shop, lobo or not, Valle is ready to treat them like family. m
Reach Staff Writer Madison White at mwhite@santamariasun.com.
THEY HAVE THE MEATS: Sergio Bustos (left) and Ernesto Valle (right) have run Lobo Butcher Shop together for four and
a half years. Last year they got a food trailer to cater events on the Central Coast cooking burgers, sausages, ribs, and more.
PHOTO BY MADISON WHITE
WATCH YOUR FINGERS: Sergio Bustos, a co-owner of Lobo Butcher Shop, handles everything in the shop while his business partner operates their food trailer.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LOBO BUTCHER SHOP
FIRE UP THE GRILL: Ernesto Valle cooks tri-tip on his smoker. It’s so delicious that he never gets tired of eating it.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LOBO BUTCHER SHOP
A CUT ABOVE: Lobo Butcher Shop sources meat from Fresno. It’s shipped to Paso Robles and then distributed to Guadalupe. “The less people touching your food, the fresher it is,” owner Ernesto Valle said.
ribs,
Grazing for Gracie
ive
50/50 Raffle
Food & beverage sales benefit the Schmidt family
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& beve v rage benefi f ct info@805charcuterie.c ake k VIP table reservatio
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