Sun, May 28, 2026

Summer is nearly here, even if it doesn’t quite feel warm enough yet. I can smell the heat on the wind that continues blowing along the Central Coast, bringing with it the promise of sunny freedom. With that warmth comes a long list of events—outdoor concerts, kids camps, food and wine festivals, art classes, and more—that celebrate what this area has to offer. And as usual, Calendar Editor Angie Stevens compiled all those must-attend events into our annual Summer Guide [13]

Also, find stories about Flying Goat Cellars’ lawsuit against the county [4]; a local bringing Pacific Legends Polynesian dance group back to Lompoc [36]; and an outdoor dinner event that celebrates the wilderness [39]

Camillia Lanham

•On May 20, U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) announced new federal funding—approximately $2.2 million—for the San Luis Obispo County Airport to improve the baggage screening system. The airport’s current system is too undersized and outdated, Carbajal’s office stated, to adequately meet current operational demand. The new grant will fund a complete system replacement to improve the travel experience for passengers. “This federal funding will support necessary infrastructure upgrades, allowing the airport to accommodate the growing number of travelers coming into SLO County each year,” Carbajal said in a statement. “Given SLO’s beautiful landscapes, innovative companies, and acclaimed universities, it is no surprise that SLO County Airport welcomed a record-breaking number of passengers last year.” The new federal funding was possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Airport Terminals Program Grants through the program often provide funding for safe, sustainable, and accessible airport terminals, as well as airport-owned airport traffic control towers, and on-airport rail and bus projects that improve multimodal connections.

“We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Carbajal and his team for their continued partnership and support of SLO County Airport,” Airport Director Courtney Johnson said in a May 20 statement.

“This funding supports the replacement of the terminal’s undersized outbound baggage screening system to better meet current operational demand and enhance the travel experience for families and passengers traveling through our community airport. Investments like this are critical to maintaining safe, efficient, and reliable service as passenger activity continues to grow.” Last fall, Carbajal helped secure more than $3 million in funding for two local airports for infrastructure improvements. The San Luis Obispo County Airport received $2.7 million to construct a new 315-foot taxiway to bring the airport into conformity with current standards, while the Oceano Airport received $313,500 to reseal 2,325 feet of existing runway pavement to extend its useful life.

•Five days after hitting the state Senate floor, Senate Bill 931—authored by State Sen. John Laird (D-Santa Cruz)—passed with a 29-10 vote on May 19 and advanced to the Assembly for consideration. This legislation ensures continued funding for communities impacted by the ongoing operation of the Diablo Canyon Power Plant If passed, SB 931 would extend authorization for the Essential Services Mitigation Fund through 2030, according to Laird’s office. “SB 931 ensures that communities surrounding Diablo Canyon are not left carrying the financial burden of supporting critical public services tied to the plant’s continued operation,” Laird said in a May 19 statement.

•State Sen. Monique Limón (Santa Barbara) issued a statement in response to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s release of the May Revision, a recent revision to his 2026-27 Senate budget proposal. While Limón described the update as overall positive, she opined that “there are still some key points that need further negotiation.” In a May 14 statement, she said she looks forward to working with the governor’s office and the state Assembly to deliver a budget that strengthens the state’s fiscal foundation before the end of May. “We are encouraged that, while not identical, the May Revision from the governor aligns with the Senate framework and is a positive next step in the crafting of the upcoming state budget,” Limón stated. “Our subcommittees will continue their work crafting the final Senate version of the budget by the end of the month.” The Senate budget plan highlights three key priorities: responsible budgeting; maintaining essential programs that Californians rely on; and improving the long-term budget. To do that, the Senate proposed increasing the Rainy Day Fund and continued investments for California Proposition 98; Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP); and MediCal m

Flying Goat Cellars sues county over wine district fees

A local winery asked a federal court to weigh in on its clash with Santa Barbara County for collecting mandatory fees that support a newly created wine business improvement district.

The dispute is at the center of a civil lawsuit Flying Goat Cellars co-owners Norm Yost and Kate Griffith filed against the county on May 21 in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.

“The county is forcing Flying Goat to associate with this private nonprofit business association that Flying Goat does not want to be a partner with,” Flying Goat’s attorney Adam Shelton told the Sun. “All the money goes directly to this private association. It doesn’t go to the government. It’s not a tax in any way. This private association is then able to determine how best to spend the money.”

Last year, the county Board of Supervisors established a 1 percent assessment on all directto-consumer winery sales for wineries within the county. The board dictated that those funds go to the Santa Barbara County Vintners Association, partly to support the group’s efforts in marketing the county’s wine industry to the outside world, as one elected official summarized.

“You’re going to be promoting our whole region. … I don’t think 1 percent is a big deal,” 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann said at a hearing in 2025. “This is a way for the wineries across the board to pool their resources and advertise the Santa Barbara brand.”

In its suit against the county, Flying Goat Cellars alleges that because the Vintners Association funds “a broad range of activities” including government lobbying and charitable causes of the nonprofit’s choosing, requiring the Lompoc winery to support speech it may not necessarily agree with is unconstitutional.

“Faced with no other choice, plaintiffs file this action and seek relief from this court. This lawsuit asks the court to determine whether the county can impose such a heavy burden on one private business to benefit other private entities,” the complaint states. “The Constitution is clear: It cannot.” —Caleb Wiseblood Santa Maria-Bonita makes

steps toward new school at Blosser Ranch

Before starting on a new campus at Blosser Ranch, builders need to secure enough dirt to fill around 30 Olympic-sized swimming pools. They also need drivers to bring it on-site.

Over the course of six to 10 weeks, it’ll take 12 to 15 trucks hauling dirt eight to 10 hours a day to get the job done. That’s 100,000 cubic yards of fill dirt to raise building pads 3 to 5 feet because nobody wants to go to school in a flood plain.

On May 13, the Santa Maria-Bonita School District unanimously agreed to spend $2 million on a contract with a local company for this work. Despite what may seem like a costly approval, it could be worse, said Matthew Beecher, the deputy superintendent for business services.

“We have a local supplier who is able to provide the quantity that we need for our project,” Beecher said at the meeting. “We also have material that has been tested in the past and used on school construction projects, which is really good.”

Sourcing locally saves “a significant amount of money” on transportation, he added. By securing the dirt now, it could also prevent rising costs in the future if private developers start competing for the material.

Next, they’ll need to test the soil and stockpile it before hauling starts in September. If all goes to plan, the Measure T-funded campus would be open for the 2028-29 school year, Beecher explained.

“These uses do not constitute generic, nonideological commercial advertising, but are expressive, ideological, and political activities that plaintiffs are compelled to fund and associate with,” the May 21 complaint states. “Among other things, plaintiffs disagree with … the use of funds for [Vintners Association] officials to take trips to South Korea in 2025 and Japan in 2026 for the purported purpose of developing export markets and gaining international recognition, neither of which benefit plaintiffs.

“Rather than focusing on export markets or international recognition, Flying Goat serves local customers in Lompoc and the surrounding area,” the complaint continues. “Norm and Kathleen have built their business on direct relationships with wine drinkers who come through their doors, not the kind of broad promotion campaigns the [Vintners Association] favors.”

Yost and Griffith decided to file the lawsuit after raising their concerns in a February letter to the Board of Supervisors that went “unanswered,” according to the complaint.

“The county does not comment on litigation,” county Public Information Officer Kelsey Gerckens Buttitta told the Sun via email on May 26.

The lawsuit asks the court to order the county to create an opt-out mechanism under which individual wineries can apply for exemption from the 1 percent assessment fee.

It also asks that Flying Goat receive refunds from the county for the assessment fees it “paid under protest” so far, and an award of nominal damages “in the amount of $1” for the county’s alleged infringement on Yost and Griffith’s constitutional rights.

The district’s contract is with Speed’s Oil Tool Service Inc. based in Santa Maria. Speed’s will deliver dirt from off Black Road, around 8 miles away from the project site.

“I have been working for the last couple months with our testing labs, with contractors in our area trying to identify a source with this quantity of material that we need,” Beecher said. “This is the only one that I’ve been able to find.”

Since the contract was a sole-source agreement, the district didn’t accept any other bidders. Beecher said Speed’s price per cubic yard currently sits around $19, on the lower end of the average $18 to $22 based on his research. He called it a fair price for the material and the operation amid unknown variables like the cost of fuel in the trucking industry.

The future school will be just one aspect of Blosser Ranch, a 155-acre community development bordered by Blosser, Battles, and Stowell roads. Multiple residential phases were planned out over several years.

In June 2023, the Sun reported that the city Planning Commission greenlit one plot of 301

apartments with ample parking and electric vehicle chargers for each unit.

Blosser Ranch is scheduled to be complete by 2030, according to the developer’s website. The city has already broken ground on the project.

—Madison White

Convicted of patricide, Lompoc resident awaits June sentencing

While responding to a 911 call about a domestic disturbance in 2022, local law enforcement heard a man’s voice coming from inside of the house at 210 North D St. in Lompoc: “Send someone now!”

According to court documents, while kicking down the front door, Lompoc police officers heard the man screaming. As soon as they entered, they saw resident Joseph Michael Garcia “completely engulfed in flames.”

They quickly smothered him with a blanket to put out the fire, which burned 39 percent of his body. He died 10 days later while hospitalized.

The man’s son, Joseph Ashley Garcia Jr., was sitting on the ground with his hands raised while law enforcement put out the flames. Officers later found a near-empty bottle of acetone and a lighter at the scene.

Four years of court proceedings and psychological evaluations later, a jury convicted the son of first-degree murder and torture, and found him to be sane at the time of his offenses. He had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.

His sentencing is scheduled for June 6 at Santa Barbara County Superior Court’s Santa Maria division. The Lompoc resident faces a mandatory term of life without the possibility of parole, according to the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office.

“It’s a horrifying case,” District Attorney

John Savrnoch told the Sun. “Sometimes, … mental illness is so pervasive that [someone] can’t understand the nature of their actions and the wrongness of them. In this case, we felt that wasn’t the case.

“I mean, we felt that the defendant was responsible for his actions,” he continued, “and then that becomes a matter for the jury to decide.”

About 30 minutes after the jury’s deliberations began the morning of April 21, the jury delivered its guilty verdict, court documents stated.

According to the defendant’s ex-spouse Elias Lopez, Garcia Jr. accused Lopez of having sex with his father in late 2021 and threatened to kill his father because of their affair with a knife in early 2022.

“I should just kill you right now for what you have done to me,” Garcia Jr. allegedly told his father that day, according to court docs.

Garcia Jr.’s aunt, Rosemary Alvarez, testified that the defendant gave his father a black eye during a separate incident in early 2022, about six months before Garcia’s death.

Lopez told law enforcement that he saw Garcia as a caring father figure and never had a romantic or sexual relationship with him.

He also alleged that Garcia Jr. always had a hatred for his father, “but it got worse when the defendant used methamphetamine.” Lopez stated that he and Garcia Jr. separated in 2021 after Garcia Jr. tried to suffocate him with a pillow.

When Garcia Jr. set his father on fire, their family dog, Charlie, was sitting on his father’s lap, according to court documents. Although Charlie suffered burn injuries to his ear and right shoulder area, the dog ultimately recovered after treatment from a local veterinarian.

“I need my dog,” Garcia told first responders, according to court docs, before being transported to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. “Find Charlie.” m

—Caleb Wiseblood

YOUR NEW HAPPY PLACE

Two tassels

Orcutt students graduate with high school diplomas and Hancock associate degrees in a new college readiness program

BY MADISON WHITE

Jackson Payne took his first college class when he was a freshman in high school. He arrived around 7 a.m. to Orcutt Academy High School.

The campus was quiet except for his 29 other classmates in the Early College Cadre program. Soon enough their professor showed up and introduced the group members to their first Allan Hancock College course.

“It was pretty cool to just be thrown right into it and be able to figure it out,” Payne told the Sun

navigating the hiccups that went along with being the program’s guinea pigs.

“It’s definitely a group of kids who will be connected forever just because we’ve been together, basically done everything together, for the past four years,” Payne said.

The cohort model is partly why Orcutt Academy Vice Principal Josh Ostini thought the program was so successful.

“They’re having that synergy and energy of working together towards a common goal,” Ostini said.

Bookworms

Before finishing high school, 26 Orcutt students graduated with two associate degrees from Hancock. One in arts and humanities and another in behavioral science. The program’s first cohort celebrated their achievements on May 22 at the Hancock graduation ceremony.

To watch a video and read more about the Early College Cadre program at Orcutt Academy High School, visit oahs.orcuttschools. net/ecc. Interested students can apply online.

Students applied for the program while they were in eighth grade and moved through it together. Starting in 2022, Hancock professors traveled to the high school to teach zero period. The high schoolers also attended summer classes at the college.

“I think it makes you feel a lot more mature and gives you a pretty cool experience to be with people who are in college themselves, or even older than that,” Payne said.

Certified Orcutt Academy educators also helped students earn their 60 credits by teaching concurrent enrollment classes like history, English, and Spanish.

For students like Payne, gaining a college degree in high school was incredibly valuable.

“It’s going to make the college experience a lot quicker and more manageable for me, as well as possibly save me some extra money,” Payne said.

The experience also gave him a taste of collegiate academic rigor, although he had a lot on his plate to begin with. He balanced schoolwork with his job at a bike shop, his commitment as an Eagle Scout, and his cross-country mountain bike races.

“It took me a minute to figure out the balance, but once I figured it out, it was pretty easy for me to sustain,” Payne said.

With all those accomplishments, the graduate hopes to study mechanical engineering in the fall.

As his high school career progressed, Payne said he got close with his classmates in the cohort. They spent a lot of time learning and growing together,

Every year the cohort had homeroom together with the same teacher. Ostini often popped in to check on the group’s progress and get to know the students. He said he saw them getting better at communicating and using teamwork to face adversity.

Orcutt Academy already offers rigorous academics, but this program adds another layer to the challenge.

“It’s brought a level of excitement,” the vice principal said. “I know some students will come in, and that’s something that draws them to Orcutt Academy.”

After its initial success, the high school is continuing with the Early College Cadre program. Students in all four grade levels are actively participating, and administrators recently selected the applicants who will graduate in 2030.

Hancock plans to bring the same program to Lompoc and Ernest Righetti high schools this fall.

Highlights

• The Lompoc Public Library is hosting a free yoga class for adults on June 13 from 10 to 11 a.m. Bring a mat or borrow one for the session, which will be held in the Grossman Gallery at the library, located at 501 E. North Ave. All experience levels are welcome, but yogis must be at least 18 years old.

• Calling all Warhammer fans and curious neophiles, too. Join a group at the Santa Maria Public Library to play the medieval fantasy tabletop game on June 3 from 3 to 6:30 p.m. Command armies, create mini models, and maneuver through combat zones. Children younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult. m

Should Buellton pay for the loss of Santa Ynez Valley Horseback Rides’ pony?

67% The city should at least offer restitution for other hardships the construction caused.

33% No. The city is not responsible.

0% Yes. The horse seems to have been poisoned as a result of Buellton’s construction.

0% It’s still unclear whether the construction was directly responsible for Marshmallow’s death.

3 Votes

Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.

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Too risky

Lompoc Fire Department’s unresolved ‘at risk’ conditions will only worsen its service over time

BY RON FINK

On May 5, the Lompoc City Council received a sobering presentation by interim Fire Chief Kevin Shay.

Chief Shay reported that the Lompoc City Fire Department has the two busiest fire stations in Santa Barbara County. The three fire units and nine crew members respond to more than 5,300 calls for service each year—that’s an average of 14 calls per day. As the city grows, this number increases each year, while staffing remains the same.

To provide this service 24/7/365, a constant staffing level of nine firefighters per shift is required; however, because of vacancies due to retirement or attrition, time off, or sick or injured members, the use of forced overtime is needed to maintain an adequate response force. The average amount of sustained overtime for the last four years has been 7,800 hours per year.

This has created what the fire chief said was an “at risk” staffing level.

One concern is that when experienced staff leave, new academy graduates are hired to fill “empty positions.” These new members require extensive training to be considered qualified to fill the role of “firefighter,” at the lowest level in the organization chart. By the time they have gained experience, many leave for better paying positions.

Another is that working unscheduled, forced overtime separates firefighters from their families when they would normally be off duty. They miss holiday gatherings, their children’s sporting events, anniversaries, and other important family-related activities. Considering the response volume and the issues they confront, this also creates a stress and/or fatigue level that most people cannot relate to.

Added to this were other “at risk” conditions because “aging, undersized stations limit operational efficiency and future growth [and] outdated design and safety concerns” and “prevention efforts are essential but limited by

staffing and workload.”

The newest fire station was constructed more than 40 years ago as a “temporary station,” and the main fire station in the Old Town area has seismic safety issues.

Despite these challenges, the Fire Department’s “performance remains strong due to personnel commitment, despite system limitations.”

Mission success is embedded into each firefighter’s psyche from their first day in the fire academy and remains with them throughout their career. This has been the case since Benjamin Franklin co-founded the Union Fire Company in 1736. When the bell rings they respond—no excuses.

As the council began to ask questions about the staffing issue, the Human Resources representative agreed with both Chief Shay and the firefighters union leadership that staffing was a serious issue. He also said that when experienced staff leave, it’s often due to the low pay level for each position in the Fire Department as compared to other surrounding agencies.

The most graphic example was the recent loss of the fire chief. When he left for another fire chief’s position, he was offered almost twice the compensation he received in Lompoc.

These are not new problems; for the last two decades fire chiefs have made the council aware of the same problems. Councilman Dirk Starbuck, the longest serving council member, noted that the council had discussed this several times.

So, after hearing for the umpteenth time that staffing and fire station issues exist, what did the City Council do this time—nothing

Even though there was a significant amount of conversation, not one council member requested that the staff bring back a plan to resolve these issues. Instead, during the council requests portion of the meeting, they were more concerned with the aquatic center play structure, Ryon Park bathrooms, and other issues.

Conversation doesn’t fix anything; only tangible action solves problems, and in Lompoc after years of no action and politicians claiming they “support public safety,” the Lompoc Fire Department still has “at risk” conditions, and the council has no future agenda item scheduled for an improvement plan. m

Ron Fink writes to the Sun from Lompoc. Send a letter for publication to letters@santamariasun.com.

MAYFIELD

Jimmy Paulding is a real leader

As a senior registered as No Party Preference, I study the issues and listen carefully to debates and radio interviews. I vote for the candidate, not the political party.

Mr. Paulding is the clear winner. He was enthusiastic and well prepared at the League of Women Voters debate forum. Mr. Verdin was bored and only could give attack or very simple answers, that is when he remembered the question. It was concerning that he didn’t take notes and had to ask many times for a repeat of the question.

Mr. Verdin showed a lack of new ideas and dragged out the old scare tactic of Proposition 13. Does he feel the voters today will continue to fall for this? It is a California constitutional amendment! Living in Nipomo, I am grateful that the sheriff substation will finally be built after many years of talk. Roads are getting better. Mr. Paulding is endorsed by the SLO County Firefighters Association. This is leadership, this is doing his job for our community.

Vote Jimmy Paulding for District 4 supervisor. Glenn Eineman Nipomo

Dead seabirds are the harbingers of a preventable future

I’ve been seeing a lot of dead seabirds on Pismo Beach lately. Most of them were common murres—those handsome black birds with white throats and stout, black beaks. There were also some dead cormorants, and even a whimbrel, with its long downcurved bill. As I walked up the beach carrying my surfboard, I counted seven dead birds in a distance of just a hundred feet or so. It turns out that most of these birds starved to death. The reason, according to International Bird Rescue, is warmer ocean surface temperature. We’ve been experiencing a record-breaking blob of warm ocean water stretching from the Bering Sea to Mexico, from Korea to California. That’s driving baitfish into cooler, deeper water, where our friends the murres and other seabirds can’t reach them. The warmer water also gave us a record warm and dry March on land. These elevated temperatures are the result of global heating from the 2.5 trillion tons of CO2 that we have emitted into our atmosphere. Moreover, we haven’t even started our El Niño yet, which isn’t expected until late summer. What will happen when we add a strong El Niño event to our already anomalously warm ocean? We could see high temperatures, humidity, and storms such as we haven’t seen since tropical storm Hilary came ashore in 2023.

The birds are, if you will excuse a morbid expression, our canaries in the coal mine, harbingers of our perilous future. Are a hot atmosphere, elevated ocean temperatures, and dead animals the legacy that we are leaving for our children? If we do nothing, then yes. The good news is that we can prevent this. Let’s ditch gas. We can power our cars with electricity and warm our homes with electric heat pumps (both of which, by the way, are cheaper in the long run).

We’ll embrace renewable sources of energy like solar and wind. That includes offshore wind, which the Audubon Society has declared is far safer for seabirds than the dangers of CO2induced global heating. We can tap into 6 million kilowatts of wind energy blowing off our coast, enough to power millions of homes. Over the course of a year, that would add up to 53 billion kilowatt-hours of renewable electricity, resulting in nearly 50 billion tons of CO2 that won’t be emitted into our atmosphere.

Let’s utilize the tools we already have at our disposal—electrification and renewable energy. We can help save a huge number of seabirds and other wildlife and provide a better future for our children and our children’s children.

This Is Unnerving Think

In no surprise to anyone who followed the mildly controversial roll-out of the Santa Barbara County Vintner’s Association running the county’s winery business improvement district (for a small fee, of course), Flying Goat Cellars finally sued the county over the deal.

It could have been Stephen Pepe who pulled the trigger—after all, the Clos Pepe Vineyard owner stated that the county could be sued if it passed this thing. He also wrote several opinion pieces opining about how screwed-up the whole thing was.

But, alas, it was the Lompoc winery that had also made a fuss about the idea since the beginning that finally pulled the trigger. Bang.

There’s a little bit of history there: In January 2020, Flying Goat left the association because it wasn’t getting the support it wanted, owner Kate Griffith told the Sun at the time. Griffith also accused the Vintners Association of proposing to become the nonprofit behind a business improvement district (BID) to make up for a lack of performance and membership attrition. But nobody’s bitter.

She was right about the membership attrition—that was something the association mentioned as part of its proposal: to find a guaranteed source of income to pay for its work.

The wine BID proposal failed in 2020, but its second major attempt was approved in 2025: A 1 percent assessment on all direct-to-consumer retail winery sales in the county now funds efforts to market Santa Barbara County wines regionally, nationally, and globally.

Griffith and Yost said that kind of marketing is exactly why they shouldn’t be forced to pay to support the BID. Flying Goat is local, local, local. Their suit against the county states that their winery is being forced to pay for speech they don’t agree with, including government lobbying and charitable causes.

“These uses do not constitute generic, nonideological commercial advertising, but are expressive, ideological, and political activities that plaintiffs are compelled to fund and associate with,” the lawsuit states, adding that it violates Griffith’s and Yost’s constitutional rights. Specifically, the lawsuit pointed to trips that association employees took to South Korea and Japan “for the purported purpose of developing export markets and gaining international recognition, neither of which benefit plaintiffs.”

Do we think the association is looking for a canary’s help in spreading the good word about local wine? The flight would be free!

The county made sure to try and indemnify itself against a lawsuit like this when it approved the Vintners Association’s proposal, so the association might be on its own defending against the lawsuit. But the outcome of this thing could potentially impact business improvement districts all over the state, including wine BIDs in Temecula and Livermore

Flying Goat’s lawyers say the BID violates First Amendment protections—the freedom not to associate with a private organization, the freedom not to subsidize speech it doesn’t agree with—and Fifth Amendment protections—by taking the winery’s money and redirecting it to an entity with “no legitimate public use.”

Ooh. Improving wine tasting sales isn’t a legitimate public use? That’s a real bummer. But perhaps I’ve had too much wine to see this thing clearly. m

Hot Stuff

SHOOTING FIRE

The Santa Maria Camera Club presents photographer and firefighter Andrew Klein, who will share photographs and firsthand stories during a presentation at Merrill Gardens in Santa Maria on Wednesday, June 3, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Hear his experience documenting fires throughout his career. Learn more at santamariacameraclub.org.

—Angie Stevens

ARTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS BALLROOM, LATIN, AND SWING DANCE

CLASSES Social ballroom, Latin, and swing lessons for all ages. Beginner and advance classes. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. $45-$55. (805) 928-7799. Kleindancesarts.com. Klein Dance Arts, 3558 Skyway Drive, suite A, Santa Maria.

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

ARTIST ANN WIRTZ PRESENTS

LIMITLESS Wirtz’s figurative works consider the stories and relationships

between people and their environment, offering paintings that speak to human connection in our daily lives. Through May 31 (805) 698-0084. annwirtz.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. 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. “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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY ACTOR’S EDGE: ACTING CLASSES

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

AGHS THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS:

NEW PLAY FESTIVAL Discover the future of theater with AGHS Theatre Company’s thrilling Annual New Play Festival. May 30 7 p.m. $12-$17. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter. org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options.

Beginners welcomed. ongoing (805) 8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, 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.

OCEANO SEABREEZE MARKET Enjoy an afternoon of community fun by the beach! There will be locally made handcrafted goods, music, food, and more! May 30 12-4 p.m. Free. discoveroceanoca.com/ oceano-seabreeze-market. Oceano Elks Lodge, 410 Air Park Drive, Oceano.

WORKSHOPS AND MORE AT THE LAVRA

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

“ONE VISIT” POTTERY CLASS This is a great class if you are looking to try out pottery! Throw on the wheel or paint pre-made pottery. Get a student discount with a valid school ID. Fridays, 6-7:30 p.m. $75. (805) 896-6197. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

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. and Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through June 28 $28-$50. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/shows/a-grand-night-forsinging/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like open studio time. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

CAL POLY’S SOUNDINGS WITH SWITCH ENSEMBLE Music technology and composition students partner with contemporary repertory dancers to create an evening of original music and choreography in collaboration with visiting artists. May 28 -29, 7:30 p.m. $12-$22. (805) 756-4849. music.calpoly.edu. PAC Pavilion, Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo.

CCSPA MOVIE NIGHT: The Last Forests Project follows a grassroots journey sparked by the rapid disappearance of Northern California’s kelp forests - blending science, storytelling, and deep personal passion to bring this underwater crisis to light. June 3, 6 p.m. $24.34. my805tix.com. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.

CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/ foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/babyhandprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece.

Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP:

LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

FILM SCREENING: OMOIYARI WITH KISHI BASHI Head to this special screening in partnership with SLO Film Center, featuring a Q&A with Composer and Director Kaoru Ishibashi (Kishi Bashi). May 28 7:30 p.m. (805) 541-5161. calpolyarts.org. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., 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) 543-8562. 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.

LANDSCAPE PAINTING

DEMONSTRATION WITH ELIZABETH

“LIBBY” TOLLEY “My goal for this demonstration is to show the way I approach painting, from concept to completion.” Join Libby for this free demo! May 30, 1-3 p.m. Free. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a

loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. (805) 441-8257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.

MOBILE CLAY CLASSES Offering handbuilding, throwing, and ceramic decorative arts. All ages and abilities are welcome. Call for info. (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/book-online. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.

ONCE UPON NOW: ART BRIDGES

COLLECTION The nine diverse works of American art in this exhibition span from 1915 to 2020, representing a remarkable slice of American art history. ThursdaysSundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. through May 30 Free. (805) 543-8562. sloma.org/exhibition/ ab-collection/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. PAINT A PREMADE POTTERY PIECE! Drop into the studio to pick out and paint a premade piece! There is fun for all ages, and prices are based upon size. Mondays, Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2-7:30 p.m. $30$75. app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule. php?owner=22676824&appointmentTy pe=35974477. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS

This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age. Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Familyfriendly open studio welcomes all ages and skill levels. Book online in advance. Bring an idea; we assist with wheel or handbuilding! Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com/. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY 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. 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.,

SUMMER gUIDE 2026 SUMMER gUIDE 2026

PRIDE IN ACTION

Downtown Solvang will come alive when the fifth annual Santa Ynez Valley Pride Parade and Festival hits the streets on Saturday, June 13, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Families and community members can join the parade starting by walking, marching, skating, floating, or skipping along in celebration of the LGBTQ-plus community. Food trucks, face painting, and live music from Bonnie & Co. will follow. More details can be found at syvpride.org.

—Angie Stevens

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 HalfCentury Club, 341 No. N 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

NIPOMO LIBRARY 30TH ANNIVERSARY

SPECIAL SUMMER EVENTS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

BRUNCH AND BROWSE Shop and explore, while supporting amazing local talent.

May 30, 10 a.m.-noon, June 27 10 a.m.noon, Aug. 29 10 a.m.-noon and Sept. 26 10 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 925-0951 ext 1635. cityofsantamaria.org/. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

DAY OF HOPE 2026 Join the 13th annual Day of Hope. Aug. 26 7 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 739-3595. dayofhope2026. rallybound.org/. Mission Hope Cancer Center, 1325 East Church St., Santa Maria.

DAY OF HOPE CAR SHOW 2026 Get ready to rev your engines for a cause! We’re thrilled to announce the 2nd Annual Day of Hope Car Show. Aug. 22 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 739-3595. dayofhope2026.

rallybound.org/. Mission Hope Cancer Center, 1325 East Church St., Santa Maria.

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. SANTA MARIA TOASTMASTERS Develop your public speaking skills at this club meeting. Second and Third Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. and Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8 p.m. (805) 570-0620. Santa Maria Airport, 3217 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria.

SANTA MARIA WOMEN’S NETWORK HOSTS “SUMMER EXTRAVAGANZA!”

The Santa Maria Women’s Network (SMWN) invites community members

to a friendly, festive gathering and an opportunity to win beautiful gift baskets! June 3 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $35. (805) 4783057. smwn.net. Santa Maria Country Club, 505 W. Waller Lane, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

37TH SEASON OF “AN INVITATION TO DANCE” This presentation, under the direction of Christine Fossemalle and Sonia Ibarra Corona, showcases the elegance and refinement of ballet and lyrical, along with the excitement of jazz and tap, and trendy hip-hop. Each style will be set to a mix of sounds, from classical ballet to opera music, to iconic movies. June 17 7 p.m., June 18 7 p.m. and June 20 7 p.m. $30. (805) 688-8494. tixtree.com/o/syvpac. Santa Ynez High School Little Theater, 2975 CA-246, Santa Ynez.

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.

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-nipomolibrary-28550. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo, 929-3994.

OCEANO SEABREEZE MARKET Enjoy an afternoon of community fun by the beach! There will be locally made handcrafted goods, music, food, and more! May 30, 12-4 p.m. Free. discoveroceanoca.com/ oceano-seabreeze-market. Oceano Elks Lodge, 410 Air Park Drive, Oceano.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BODYTRAFFIC: SAN LUIS OBISPO

MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL 2026

Presented by Cal Poly Arts and Festival Mozaic, Bodytraffic has taken the contemporary dance world by storm with powerhouse performers, technical brilliance, and bold repertoire. July 16 , 7:30 p.m. (805) 781-3009. calpolyarts.org/20262027-season/ bodytraffic. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

BUTTERFLY BALL: CCSPA’S 50TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY Mark this golden milestone with an unforgettable evening featuring live music, dance performances, exceptional food and drink, inspiring presentations, and a silent auction, all in support of the 10 California State Parks in San Luis Obispo County. Aug. 12 4-8 p.m. $110-$145. my805tix.com.

Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096.

CITY FARM SLO’S YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM Check site for more info on programming and summer camps. ongoing cityfarmslo.org.

San Luis Obispo, Citywide, SLO. DEYO DANCES DEYOdance offers an emotional ride blending gravity with whimsey. Never been to a dance show? This is the perfect introduction. A gift to the community. July 18 7-9 p.m. and July 19, 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 540-1081. deyodances.com. Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

KCBX PARKING LOT SALE Don’t miss this upcoming Parking Lot Music Sale hosted by and benefitting KCBX and KCPR at the KCBX studios. Thousands of LPs and CDs will be for sale, plus an assortment of other goods. May 30, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

KCBX Public Radio, 4100 Vachell Ln., San Luis Obispo, (805) 549-8855.

MOONLIGHT HOURS The San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum offers free hours, Moonlight Hours, the third Thursday of each month. Experience the wonder and get info at the link. Third Thursday of every month, 5-7 p.m. Free. (805) 544-KIDS. slocm.org/moonlight-hours.

San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum, 1010 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

PORTUGUESE, HOLY SPIRIT SOCIETY 115TH PORTUGUESE FESTA Joi. the celebration to honor Saint Isabella of Portugal. There will be a rosary and dance on Saturday, parade, mass, serving of sopas, and an auction on Sunday.

May 30 6-11 p.m. and May 31 , 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 458-9361. Trinity Hall, 6565 Edna Road, San Luis Obispo, TrinityHallSLO.com.

SLO FOOD BANK OPEN HOUSE The SLO Food Bank Open House gathers and celebrates volunteers, donors, partners, and community leaders who bring our mission to life. May 30 3-5 p.m. Free. (805) 238-4664. donate.slofoodbank.org. SLO Food Bank, 1180 Kendall Road, San Luis Obispo.

SLO GREEK FESTIVAL Enjoy the SLO Greek Festival, with authentic Greek food, live music, traditional dancing, and family fun. May 30, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and May 31 , 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $5. (805) 546-8337. greekfestivalslo.com/. Madonna Expo Center, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.

SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets at the SLO Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors are welcome. First and Third Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 540-9484, slocity.org/seniors. SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN MONTHLY GET-TOGETHERS SLO RAMs is a group of retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement. Third Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $31 luncheon. retiredactivemen.org/. Madonna Inn Garden Room, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo. STATE OF THE CITY Join Mayor Erica A. Stewart for an evening highlighting the City’s accomplishments, ongoing projects, community priorities, and vision for the future of San Luis Obispo. June 9 5:30-7 p.m. Free. slocity.org. San Luis Obispo City Hall, 990 Palm St, San Luis Obispo, (805) 781-7100. TRANS* YOUTH PEER SUPPORT GROUP

This group is a safe place for trans* and gender non-conforming people, as well as those questioning, from ages of 11 to 18. A facilitated emotional support group to be heard, share your story, and hear stories that may sound surprisingly like

your own. Second and Fourth Tuesday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

ANNUAL POKER TOURNAMENT

FUNDRAISER Poker Tournament

Fundraise. A ticket includes lunch, drinks, dessert, and a commemorative souvenir cap. There will be prizes for the final table players. May 31 12-5 p.m. $75. (805) 466-0329. congregationohrtzafon.org/ event/annual-poker-tournament1.html.

Congregation Ohr Tzafon - Synagogue, 2605 Traffic Way, Atascadero.

FRIDAY NIGHT FARMERS’

MARKETPLACE: OPEN FARM DAYS

WEEKEND KICK-OFF Farmers’

Marketplace will kick-off Open Farm Days Weekend. Join us as our local farms showcase their locally grown and made for you to enjoy! June 19, 5-8 p.m. Free. farmsteaded.com/openfarmdays. Paso Robles Downtown City Park, 1200 Park Street, Paso Robles, (805) 237-3888.

GODDESS GROUP Please join Oracle Owner/Intuitive Medium, Tiffany Klemz, for this twice monthly, Goddess Group. The intention of this group is to curate connection, inspiration, unity, and empowerment. Every other Tuesday, 6:30-8 p.m. $11. (805) 464-2838. oracleatascaderoca.com. Oracle, 6280 Palma Ave., Atascadero.

ICE CREAM ZOOFARI Cool down and join the celebration at the Central Coast Zoo!

Plan for a magical summer evening with all-you-can-eat ice cream, sundaes, and yummy toppings! Enjoy hands-on fun with Central Coast Trains, see and learn about how the animals stay cool, and have a chance to explore animals native to some of the world’s most biodiverse habitats on one unforgettable evening. June 6 5-8 p.m. $12.56-$20.06. my805tix.com. Central Coast Zoo, 9100 Morro Road, Atascadero.

LAVENDER BLOOM CELEBRATION

Celebrate peak lavender bloom at Hambly Lavender Farm with U-Pick, music, demos, and vineyard views in Paso Robles wine country. June 13 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $35-$45. (805) 975-0056. hamblyfarms.com/ lavender-bloom-celebration. Hambly Lavender Farm, 1390 GRANA PL, San Miguel CA, San Miguel, CA 93451.

NAR-ANON: FRIDAY MEETINGS

A meeting for those who know or have known a feeling of desperation concerning the addiction of a loved one. Fridays, 12-1 p.m. Free. (805) 4412164. North County Connection, 8600 Atascadero Ave., Atascadero.

SLO COUNTY 4-H FIELD DAY Don’t miss the SLO County 4-H Field Day––the cutest free mini-fair anywhere! There will be a public celebration of art, agriculture, and positive youth development. May 30 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 781-5943. ucanr. edu. Paso Robles Event Center, 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

TRAFFIC JAM VINTAGE & HANDMADE

MONTHLY MARKET Come shop at the lot behind the shops (behind Golden State Goods) on Traffic Way. Enjoy food, drink, music, and vibes, while shopping local. Third Sunday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Dec. 20 Free. (805) 464-2564. trafficjamvintagemarket.com. Golden State Goods, 5880 Traffic Way, Atascadero.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ENJOY AXE THROWING Enjoy the art of axe throwing in a safe and fun environment. Kids ages 10 and older are welcome with an adult. No personal axes please. Fridays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. $20. (805) 528-4880. baysidemartialarts.com. Bayside Martial Arts, 1200 2nd St., Los Osos.

THE KEYS TO LIVING WELL: LIVE THE DREAM, LEAVE A LEGACY Explore how to weave kindness, patience, forgiveness and surrender into your life to embrace all of you and reveal your Inner Wisdom! Register at the link. May 29, 1-3 p.m. $75.

SLOW YOUR STROLL

The California Nature Art Museum in Solvang will host a Slow Art Walkthrough and Picnic Lunch on Wednesday, June 10, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The community can embrace mindfulness and slow curiosity during the 90-minute guided experience through the museum. A picnic lunch, provided by Panino, at Hans Christian Andersen Park will follow. Tickets for the tour are $30 for CalNAM members and $35 for nonmembers and can be purchased at calnatureartmuseum.org.

dreamgirlwriter.com/playshops. Moonstone Cellars, 812 Cornwall St, Cambria, (805) 927-9466.

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., Through June 21 , 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Through July 5 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Through July 19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Through Aug. 16 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Through Sept. 7 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Through Sept. 20, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 402-9437. facebook.com/ waterfrontmarketmorrobayca. Giovanni’s Fish Market, 1001 Front St., Morro Bay.

LIVE MUSIC

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

THE AMANDA CASTRO BAND The Amanda Castro Band blends vintage jazz, swing, and timeless classics with style and sophistication. July 19, 3-5 p.m. $35. (805) 686-1789. solvangtheaterfest.org. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Sundays, 2-6

p.m. Brick Barn Wine Estate, 795 W. 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) 8190723, coldcoastbrewing.com.

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

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 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 JAZZ SATURDAYS Enjoy live jazz, featuring guitarist Keegan Heitman (@keegan_heitman) and friends. May 30, 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0860. instagram. com/Crumblescafeandbakeshop. Crumbles Cafe & Bake Shop, 1635 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.

LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR

Various local musicians rotate each Friday. Fridays, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 6235129, stellerscellar.com.

MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

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

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AGHS BAND AND CHOIR CONCERT

Come hear the Arroyo Grande High School Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Percussion Ensemble, and Choir perform their End of Year concert. May 28 7 p.m. $10. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

AMERICA TURNS 250! PATRIOTIC POPS AND VETERAN’S TRIBUTE Opera San Luis Obispo Presents: America Turns 250!, a Patriotic Pops and Veteran’s Tribute June 28 , 3-4:45 p.m. $40-$50. (805) 4899444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

BLONDE AMBITION: THE MADONNA TRIBUTE Don’t miss Blonde Ambition: The Madonna Tribute at the Stone Soup Music Festival & Street Fair in Grover Beach. Aug. 29 7:30-9:30 p.m. Free. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Ramona Garden Park, 933 W. Ramona Ave., Grover Beach. 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.

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.

NAME THAT NOISE: MUSIC TRIVIA

A monthly special music-only trivia at Oak and Otter Brewing Co. Call ahead to reserve a table. Second Thursday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-2529.

SIR WOMAN LIVE AT SLO BREW ROCK Enjoy a blend of R&B, soul, and funk by the folk-pop group Sir Woman at SLO Brew Rock! Don’t miss this all ages show. June 16 7-11:30 p.m. $25-$30. slobrew.com/events/. SLO Brew Rock, 855 Aerovista Place, San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.

BAND

WITH DAMON

Celebrate our Anniversary evening with special wines, delicious bbq, and live music with the amazing Damon Castillo Band! Aug. 1 , 6-9 p.m. $70. (805) 2864028. parrishfamilyvineyard.com. Parrish Family Vineyard, 3590 Adelaida Road, Paso Robles.

EASTON EVERETT Guitar-woven neo folk pop, noteworthy singing and writing, easy to listen to but also surprises. May 29, 6-8 p.m. Wines on Main, 624 Main Street, suite 101, Templeton.

—A.S.

JOURNEY USA: THE HITS OF JOURNEY

More than just a concert, Journey USA with its full production package including synchronized video playback and special effects, is an exhilarating multimedia experience! Aug. 14 7:30 p.m. $39.50$65.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

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. NIPOMO CONCERTS IN THE PARK

Celebrate summer at Nipomo’s free Concerts in the Park series, with live bands, local food, dancing, and unforgettable evenings with friends, family, and neighbors every week. Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. through Aug. 26 Free. (805) 929-5437. nipomorecreation.com/. Nipomo Regional Park, 255 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

CAL POLY ARAB MUSIC ENSEMBLE SPRING CONCERTBLE World-class guest artists and a dance troupe that sets the music in motion with original choreographies will be featured. Celebrated pieces of historically interconnected cultures. May 30 7:30 p.m. $12-$22. (805) 756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/ame/#spring. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., 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.

FRIDAY NIGHT DJ Weekly DJ series, with a different DJ every Friday. Presented by friends at Traffic Record store in Atascadero. Come listen, dance, drink, and unwind every Friday. All ages event; no cover charge. Fridays, 7-10 p.m. (805) 460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden.com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero. KARAOKE NIGHT Food and drink available for purchase. Last Saturday of every month, 8 p.m. Free admission. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.

LIVE MUSIC WITH KIELO SMITH With just a guitar and a selection of harmonicas, Kielo performs a large variety of upbeat cover tunes from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s. May 31 , 3-6 p.m. $25. (805) 237-1245. exploretock. com. McPrice Myers Wine Company, 3525 Adelaida Rd., Paso Robles.

LIVE MUSIC: ROLF G Settle in for a wonderful evening of live music! We are delighted to welcome talented singer and songwriter Rolf G. to the tasting room. May 28 5-8:30 p.m. Free. (805) 270-3327. dracaenawines.com. Dracaena Wines, 1244 Pine Street, suite 101 B, Paso Robles. ROSEBUD BAND LIVE AT DARK STAR Rosebud appeals to all ages with the music of the Grateful Dead mixed with originals and covers inspired by the Dead. May 31 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 237-2389. darkstarcellars.com. Dark Star Cellars, 2985 Anderson Rd., Paso Robles.

SINGING HANDS CHILDREN’S CHOIR A unique performing arts group that performs across the state for deaf festivals, service organizations, churches, fairs, and other outlets. New members always welcome. Registration open weekly. Mondays, 5-6:30 p.m. $45 tuition per month. singinghandschildrenschoir. com/. Singing Hands Children’s Choir and Performing Arts, 1413 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles.

SOLEFFECT SCHOOLS OUT FOR SUMMER PARTY Join Sōleffect at Decades for a high-energy night of live music, dancing, and summer vibes you don’t want to miss. June 5 , 7-10 p.m. Free. soleffect.bandzoogle.com. Decades Hifi Lounge, 5840 Traffic Way, Atascadero, (805) 460-6415.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BLUES AGENDA JAM AND SHOWCASE

A rockin’ blues dance party at Niffy’s Merrimaker every first, third, and now fifth Wednesdays. The Blues Asylum house band welcomes local, visiting, and newcomers to the blues groove.

Spirits, beer, and wine, with outside food welcome. Every other Wednesday, 7-10 p.m. and Every other Wednesday, 7-10 p.m. Free. (805) 235-5223. The Merrimaker Tavern, 1301 2nd Street, Los Osos.

MORRO BAY WHITE CAPS COMMUNITY

BAND PERFORMANCE

The Morro Bay

White Caps perform a blockbuster patriotic montage celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Enjoy big sound, big spirit, and a big celebration. June 27 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 459-9543. morrobaywhitecaps.com. Embarcadero Morro Bay, The corner of Embarcadero and Front Street, Morro Bay.

LIVE MUSIC: LOCAL CONCERT SERIES

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS CONCERTS IN THE PARK SERIES Enjoy Concerts in the Park 2026, with live music, summer nights, and community fun. June 20 6-8 p.m., June 27 6-8 p.m., July 4 12-4 p.m., July 19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., July 25 , 6-8 p.m. and Aug. 8 , 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0951. anc.apm. activecommunities.com/santamaria/ activity/search?onlineSiteId=0&activity_ select_param=2&activity_category_ ids=35&viewMode=list. Pioneer Park, 1150 W. Foster Rd., Orcutt.

SUMMER SWING

The Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizens presents its S is for Summer dance, set for Sunday, June 14, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center in Santa Maria. The dancefloor will open up as the Riptide Big Band and accompanying vocalists perform live. Visit riptidebb.com for additional information.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY ARROYO GRANDE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Check out the lineup for the City of Arroyo Grande’s Summer Concert Series! There will be free concerts every Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m., and a double show on July 4. July 4 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/rec. Heritage Square Park, 201 Nelson St., Arroyo Grande.

PACIFIC BREEZE CONCERTS IN PISMO BEACH This concert series is a threeshow 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.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

FIRST THURSDAYS SUMMER CONCERT

SERIES Hear Emily Smith and enjoy food by Bury Me in Pizza. Wine is available by the glass or bottle. June 4 , 4-7 p.m. Free. (805) 226-2034. jdusiwines.com. Hear Neighborhood Katz live, and enjoy food by Bury Me in Pizza. Wines will be available by the glass or bottle. July 2 , 4-7 p.m. Free. (805) 226-2034.

LIVE MUSIC: FESTIVALS

Music Festival & Street Fair, a Grover Beach tradition! Aug. 29 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. and Aug. 30, 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Ramona

jdusiwines.com. This event features Little Tyme Band with food by Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill. Wine by the glass or bottle will also be available. Aug. 6, 4-7 p.m. Free. (805) 226-2034. jdusiwines.com. Enjoy music by Josh Rosenblum Band, with food by Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill. Sept. 3 , 4-7 p.m. Free. (805) 226-2034. jdusiwines.com. J Dusi Wines, 1401 Hwy. 46 West, Paso Robles.

THEATER & COMEDY

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

LUCHADORA BY ALVARO SAAR RIOS

Luchadora! is a vibrant, family-friendly tale of love, identity, and the courage to step into your own power. ThursdaysSundays, 7-8:25 p.m. and WednesdaysSundays, 7-8:25 p.m. through July 3 $25. (805) 922-8313. pcpa.org.

PCPA: The Pacific Conservatory Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

BEEHIVE: THE ‘60S MUSICAL Beehive is a toe-tapping, heartwarming celebration of the songs, style, and sisterhood of the ‘60s—guaranteed to have you singing and dancing along.

Wednesdays-Sundays, 8-9:55 p.m. through Aug. 23 $25. (805) 922-8313. pcpa.org. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

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.

DISNEY’S FROZEN With magnificent music, heart, and a flurry of fun, Frozen is an unforgettable celebration of love and letting go. Tuesdays-Sundays, 8-10:15 p.m. through Aug. 2 $25. (805) 922-8313. pcpa.org. Solvang Festival Theater, 420 2nd St., Solvang.

INVITATION TO DANCE

The Santa Ynez High School Little Theater will host three nights of the 37th season of An Invitation to Dance on Wednesday, June 17; Thursday, June 18; and Saturday, June 20, at 7 p.m. The presentation, directed by Christine Fossemalle and Sonia Ibarra Corona, showcases a blend of ballet, lyrical, jazz, tap, and

accompanied with the sounds of opera, classical ballet, and iconic movies. Tickets are $30 and can be found at tixtree.com/o/syvpac.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY “BRAVO!” THE 2026 FLEX PERFORMING ARTS RECITAL Welcome to “Bravo!”, the much-anticipated 2026 Flex Performing Arts Recital! June 19, 6 p.m., June 20 1 & 6:30 p.m. and June 21 12 & 3 p.m. $31.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

AGHS THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS: NEW PLAY FESTIVAL Discover the future

of theater with AGHS Theatre Company’s thrilling Annual New Play Festival. May 30, 7 p.m. $12-$17. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD Hooray for Hollywood is the annual summer recital presented by The Studio of Performing Arts. June 27, 6 p.m. $23.50. (805) 4899444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for

Ride the FREE trolley!

From the Pismo Outlets to the Avila Pier with stops & free parking along the way. Sample trip: Park at Bob Jones trailhead or the Pismo Outlets and ride to Farmer’s Market, the beach or the pier. Visit our website for full schedule and route stops. New to the trolley and want help? Email rtatripplan@slorta.org for personal trip planning www.slorta.org (805) 541-2228

the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

CENTRAL COAST COMEDY THEATER

IMPROV COMEDY SHOW An 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.

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.

3 p.m., Aug. 7 7 p.m., Aug. 8, 7 p.m. and Aug. 9 3 p.m. $30. (805) 776-3287.

By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay, bytheseaproductions.org.

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. 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.

THE TAMING Enjoy a staged reading of Lauren Gunderson comedy, directed by Jean Miller. A beauty queen’s plan to rewrite the constitution with a conservative and a liberal contestant. Sept. 4 7 p.m., Sept. 5, 7 p.m. and Sept. 6, 3 p.m. $20. (805) 776-3287. By The Sea Productions, 545 Shasta Ave., Morro Bay, bytheseaproductions.org.

SUMMER MOVIES

SAN LUIS OBISPO

CCSPA MOVIE NIGHT: THE LAST FORESTS PROJECT The Last Forests Project follows a grassroots journey sparked by the rapid disappearance of Northern California’s kelp forestsblending science, storytelling, and deep personal passion to bring this underwater crisis to light. June 3 6 p.m. $24.34. my805tix.com. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.

SUMMER ART

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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

PAINTING AT RANCHO SAN MARCOS

GOLF COURSE The painting classes provide a beautiful, stress-free environment that will both inspire your creative spirit. Supplies, guidance, and appetizers are included. June 20, 10 a.m. $89. (805) 325-8092. artspotonwheels.com. Rancho San Marcos Golf Course, 4600 CA-154, Santa Barbara.

PAINTING IN THE VINEYARD AT KOEHLER WINERY

Join for a day of wine tasting and guided step-by-step instruction in painting the beautiful view before you at Koehler Winery. Wine and supplies will be included. Aug. 15 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $89. (805) 325-8092. Artspotonwheels.com. Koehler Winery, 5360 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos, California, 93441, United States, Los Olivos.

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.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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.

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.

SLO LEZ B FRIENDS (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A good core group of friends who gather to discuss topics we love/ care about from movies, outings, music, or being new to the area. We come from all walks of life and most importantly support each other. Transgender and Nonbinary folks welcome. Third Friday of every month, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. sloqueer.groups.io/g/lezbfriends. Online, See website, 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.

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/ gallery-artists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. BATIK STYLE WATERCOLOR WITH LINDA CUNNINGHAM In this four-hour workshop, Linda will demonstrate one of the many Batik methods to use on watercolor paper. June 27, 12-4 p.m. $50. (805) 478-2158. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BLACKLAKE ARTISANS ART SHOW AND SALE See the third annual artisan art show and sale, featuring the work of six Black Lake artists. June 20 , 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Blacklake Artisans, 530 Kathryn Court, Nipomo, (805) 363-4084.

CONCERT AND ART AT THE CLUBHOUSE Enjoy an easygoing afternoon of live music, good food, and local art. Tri-tip BBQ, specialty drinks, and unique garden art available for purchase. May 31 3-7 p.m. $75. (805) 242-1076. themondayclubslo.org/ summer2026/. The Monday Club San Luis Obispo, 1815 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) 543-8562. sloma.org/events/firstfridays/. 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.

MEET THE RESCUES

Spend the afternoon learning about the rescued animals of the Greener Pastures Farm Sanctuary in Arroyo Grande during Sanctuary Day, set for Saturday, June 6, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Children and families can meet an array of sheep, goats, miniature horses, potbelly pigs, chickens, turkeys, and more. Tickets are $17.85, and can be purchased at greenerpasturessanctuary.org.

—A.S.

complimentary glass of wine and canvas with materials. Saturdays, 12-2 p.m. $55. (805) 394-5560. coastalwineandpaint.com. Harmony Cafe at the Pewter Plough, 824 Main St., Cambria.

COSTA GALLERY SHOWCASES

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

FOREVER STOKED PAINT PARTY Join us at the gallery, for a few hours to travel on a creative paint journey. You will receive as much or as little instruction as you prefer. No artistic experience is necessary. Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. $45. (805) 772-9095. foreverstoked.com. Forever Stoked, 1164 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay. THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay and local birds. (805) 772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

SPORTS & RECREATION

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 6 p.m. Free. (805) 934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria. FEEL GOOD YOGA Tuesdays, Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. (805) 937-9750. oasisorcutt.org. Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt.

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.

sloma.org/visit/tours/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

LANDSCAPE PAINTING

DEMONSTRATION WITH ELIZABETH

“LIBBY” TOLLEY “My goal for this demonstration is to show the way I approach painting, from concept to completion.” Join Libby for this free demo! May 30 1-3 p.m. Free. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

OIL PAINTING: IMPRESSIONISTIC

REALISM WITH FRANK EBER Learn how to paint lively, expressive paintings with alla prima style techniques. This class is great for the intermediate or advanced. Inquire via email. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. through Aug. 11 $295. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/workshopsevents/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

NORTH SLO COUNTY

BLOCK PRINTING BASICS WITH LEGO

Enjoy this fun, engaging workshop where you will learn the basics of block printing while creating your own one of a kind artwork!This is a beginner class. May 30,

1:30-2:30 p.m. $25. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

DEPRISE BRESCIA ART GALLERY: ONGOING DISPLAYS Features a large selection of encaustic art, sculpted paintings, art installations, acrylic palette knife paintings, digital art, glass, jewelry,

stones, fossils, and a butterfly sculpture garden. ongoing DepriseBrescia.com. Deprise Brescia Art Gallery, 829 10th St., Paso Robles, (310) 621-7543.

MONTHLY BIRTHDAY PLATE PAINTING

AT ARTSOCIAL 805

Please join ArtSocial805 on the first Saturday of each month to paint a personalized “Birthday Plate,” for someone special or for yourself. The workshop is $35, which covers the plate, glaze, and firing. First Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. $35. (805) 400-9107.

artsocial805.com. ArtSocial 805 Creative Campus, 631 Spring St., Paso Robles. PAINT A BOLD, VIBRANT LANDSCAPE IN ACRYLIC Join Artist Joe Oakes as he instructs artist of all levels through painting bold, acrylic landscapes! Learn new techniques and advance your painting skills. June 20 1-5 p.m. $100-$125. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

ART AND CRAFT KIDS SUMMER CAMP

Enjoy this week-long half day art camp for ages 7 to 12, featuring weaving, clay, cyanotype, and weekly creative themes that build artistic skills Every 4 days, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $300. (805) 771-5007. esterobayartandcraft.com. Estero Bay Art and Craft, 523 Harbor St, Morro Bay. BRUSHSTROKES 2026 AND OFF THE WALL Brushstrokes 2026 and Off the Wall, the California-wide painting and sculpture shows, highlight the best art of the Coast and beyond. MondaysSundays. through Aug. 3 Free. (805) 7722504. artcentermorrobay.org. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

COASTAL WINE AND PAINT PARTY

Listen to music while enjoying an afternoon of creativity, sipping, and mingling. The party includes a

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.

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. 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.

Youth

Saturday, May 23 – PTFS (Play That Funky Sound)

Sunday, May 24 – Joy Polloi

Monday, May 25 – Jill Knight Band

Saturday, May 30 – Spanky Paul Band

Sunday, May 31 – Dani Cole

Saturday, June 6 – Paul Hayward*

Sunday, June 7 – Rough House

Saturday, June 13 – James River Band*

Sunday, June 14 – Electric Lavender Train

Saturday, June 20 – Cocktail Shorty

Sunday, June 21 – Spanky Paul Band

Saturday, June 27 – Quadtones

Sunday, June 28 – Lunar Radio*

Saturday, July 4th - Jill Knight Band

Sunday July 5 – Bobby Santa Cruz & Jalapeno Jam

Saturday, July 11 – Earls of Tuesday

Sunday, July 12 – Rough House

Saturday, July 18 – Leslie & the Soul Shakers

Sunday, July 19 – Dave Tate Trio

Saturday, July 25 – Cocktail Shorty*

Sunday, July 26 – Electric Lavendar Train

Saturday, Aug 1 – Leslie & The Soul Shakers*

Sunday, Aug 2 – Dani Cole

Saturday, Aug 8 – Spanky Paul Band*

Sunday, Aug 9 – Bobby Santa Cruz & Jalapeno Jam

Saturday, Aug 15 – Rockin’ Bs Trio

Sunday Aug 16 – Earls of Tuesday*

Saturday, Aug 22 – Dani Cole

Sunday, Aug 23 – Jill Knight Band

Saturday, Aug 29 – Joy Polloi

Sunday, Aug 30 – Electric Lavender Train

Saturday, Sept 5 – Jill Knight & Eric Williams

Sunday, Sept 6 – Bobby Santa Cruz & Jalapeno Jam

Monday, Sept 7 – Burning James Band

QI GONG FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY

Experience the energy of Qi Gong through simple standing movements promoting flexibility, strength, relaxation, and increased energy. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. pismobeach. org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.

QI GONG: MINDFUL MOVEMENTS FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY

Balance your mind, body, and spirit with Qi Gong — gentle stretching and strengthening movements that promotes physical wellbeing and inner peace. This is geared towards all fitness levels and ages. Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card. (805) 4404561. balancedlivingayurveda.com.

Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach.

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.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

AERIAL SILKS CLINIC Silks is a great way to learn flipping safely! Build memory, strength, coordination, confidence, and endurance at our Aerial Silks Clinic. For children ages 7 to 17 years, all levels welcome. May 30 1-3 p.m. $25. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

HANDSPRINGS AND AERIALS

(TUMBLING) CLINIC Build your skills at our Handsprings and Aerials Clinic! Even beginners can start working on the fundamentals of these Intermediate skills. All levels welcome. For children ages 5 to 17 years old. May 30 1-3 p.m. $25. (805) 547-1496. performanceathleticsslo.com.

Performance Athletics Gymnastics, 4484 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

MELLOW YOGA FOR EVERYONE Stretch into yourself under the beautiful oaks and fresh air of this idyllic country setting. Suitable for all levels, these classes emphasize the gentler side of yoga and adapt to participants’ needs. Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for five-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Tiber Canyon Ranch, 280 W Ormonde Rd, San Luis Obispo.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION

(ONLINE MEETING) Zoom series hosted by TMHA. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon

Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

TOPS SUPPORT GROUP: WEIGHT LOSS AND MAINTENANCE A self-help support group focusing on weight loss and maintenance. Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. (805) 242-2421. tops.org. Santa Margarita Senior Center, 2210 H St., Santa Margarita.

TOPS TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

Join for affordable and effective weightloss support. Sundays, 10-11 a.m. through Oct. 31 First visit is free. (805) 234-1026. Rancho Del Bordo Clubhouse, 10025 El Camino Real, Atascadero, tops.org.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

MORRO BAY MIXED MARTIAL ARTS

Disciplines include advanced athletic performance fitness training, Thai kickboxing, and more. Beginners to advanced students welcome. Day and evening classes offered. Mondays-

Saturdays, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Call for more info. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

STAY YOUNG WITH QI GONG Qi gong offers great anti-aging benefits, providing a comprehensive system for improving physical, mental and emotional health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin Wallace. Call first. Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. $10. (805) 709-2227. Hardie Park, Ash Ave. and B St., Cayucos. Qi gong offers great anti-aging benefits, providing a comprehensive system for improving physical and mental health. Its roots date back thousands of years in China. Learn with certified instructor Devin Wallace. Call first for info and exact location. Fridays, 9-10 a.m. $12. (805) 709-2227. inner-workings.com. Los Osos.

TAI CHI AND QI GONG: ZEN IN MOTION Small group classes with 2019 Tai Chi Instructor of the Year. Call for time and days. Learn the Shaolin Water Style and 5 Animals Qi Gong. Beginners welcomed. Mondays, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call for price details. (805) 701-7397. charvetmartialarts.com. Morro Bay Martial Arts, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

TAI CHI BASICS Visit site for more details on this ongoing, weekly Tai Chi program. Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $10-$12. (805) 772-7486. fitnessworksmb.com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay. WEEKLY QIGONG PRACTICE AT FITNESSWORKS MORRO BAY Calm your mind and nourish your joints with a weekly Qigong practice led by Mike Raynor of Tai Chi Rejuvenation. The practice is rooted in Qigong fundamentals, and standing/moving meditations. Forms include: Eight Brocades, Five Elements, Shibashi 18, and Tai chi 24. Saturdays, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Members free; non-members $8-$10. (805) 772-7466. fitnessworksmb.com. FitnessWorks, 500 Quintana Rd., Morro Bay.

ZEN IN MOTION Learn the Shaolin Water Style and other deep breathing and moving meditation techniques with the 2019 Taijiquan Instructor of the Year. Beginners Welcome.Instructor Certification Courses available. Mondays, Wednesdays Call for details. (805) 7017397. charvetmartialarts.com. Grateful Body, 850 Shasta, Morro Bay.

NATURE & OUTDOORS

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN

MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY

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

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.

PEAK BLOOM

Get up close and personal with the traditional process of distilling lavender at Hambly Farms in San Miguel during a Lavender Distillation Workshop on Sunday, July 5, from 9 a.m. to noon. Participants can harvest fresh lavender from the fields and get to learn how it can be turned into essential oil and hydrosol using the farm’s copper alembic still. Admission is $95. Head to hamblyfarms.com for more event information and to reserve a spot. —A.S.

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.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK

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

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, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

HAMBLY LAVENDER FARM GUIDED EXPERIENCE This one-hour walk about the farm immerses you in the processes of growing, harvesting, and drying this fragrant herb. Saturdays, Sundays, 10 a.m. my805tix.com. Hambly Farms, 1390 Grana Place, San Miguel. OPEN FARM DAYS WEEKEND Tour, taste and learn while exploring the local agriculture of over 20 farms on the Farm

2:30 p.m. and Mondays-Saturdays, 1:15 p.m. Free. (805) 550-7713. missionslodocents.org. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, 751 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

LECTURES & LEARNING

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750. 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: EVERYBODY CAN DANCE Classes available for all skill levels. Class sizes limited. ongoing Everybody Can Dance, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, (805) 937-6753, everybodycandance.webs.com/. 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. ORCUTT MINERAL SOCIETY Second Tuesday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750.

SANTA MARIA CAMERA CLUB PRESENTS ANDREW KLEIN Join us for a presentation by photographer and firefighter Andrew Klein, who will share powerful photographs and firsthand stories from his experience documenting fires. June 3 , 7-8:30 p.m. (805) 478-3057. santamariacameraclub.org. Merrill Gardens, 1220 N Suey Rd, Santa Maria. SANTA MARIA COIN CLUB: MONTHLY MEETING Coin collectors of all ages invited. Bring coins for free appraisals. Third Wednesday of every month, 7 p.m. Yearly membership: $20-$25. (805) 9373158. Cornerstone Church, 1026 E. Sierra Madre Ave., Santa Maria. WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. wineanddesign.com/orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.

Trail. June 19 5-8 p.m., June 20 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and June 21 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. farmsteaded.com/openfarmdays. SLO County Farm Trail, Multiple locations, Countywide.

SANTA LUCIA ROCKHOUNDS MEETING

Bring your favorite rock, gem, crystal, fossil, etc., to show the rest of the club. Third Monday of every month, 7 p.m. slrockhounds.org/. Templeton Community Center, 601 S. Main St., Templeton.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

STAGHORN FERN MOUNTING

WORKSHOP Join for a hands-on workshop where creativity and plant care come together. May 30, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $80. (805) 927-4747. cambrianursery.com. Cambria Nursery and Florist, 2801 Eton Rd., Cambria.

LOCAL LANDMARKS

SAN LUIS OBISPO

FREE TOURS OF THE MISSION

Tour San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, founded in 1772. Come learn its history and importance to the development of this area. Tours are led by docents and meet in front of the church Sundays,

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

BEGINNER’S BONSAI WORKSHOP The workshop is for beginners to learn how to shape plants in the bonsai style with an easy-to-care-for plant that you’ll get to take home. June 27, 2-4 p.m. $85. (805) 270-4083. theplantedparlour.com. The Planted Parlour, 592 W Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

BEGINNING BALLET FOR ADULTS Enjoy the grace and flow of ballet. No previous experience needed. Wednesdays, 5:156:15 p.m. $12 drop-in; $40 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

CENTRAL COAST POLYAMORY Hosting a discussion group featuring different topics relating to ethical non-monogamy every month. Third Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. galacc.org/ events/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

LECTURES & LEARNING continued page 22

Get Carried Away!

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CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now

offering private one-on-one and group lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing (805) 8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

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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.

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HOUSEPLANT HAPPINESS WORKSHOP

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

“DO I HAVE TO PAY MY EMPLOYEES FOR THAT?” COMMON WAGE AND HOUR MISTAKES Jonathan Light, the managing partner at LightGabler LLP, will be presenting at the June 2026 Human 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.

Guest are welcome to bring drinks; venue provides aprons. Pieces are fired, glazed, and ready in two weeks. Saturdays, 6-7:30 p.m. $140. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

ECO-ACTIVIST ROBIN GREENFIELD: FORAGING YOUR OWN FOOD Author and eco-activist Robin Greenfield will share his journey of foraging 100% of his food and medicine for a year. June 2 , 7-9 p.m. Free. community.robingreenfield.org/events/ gratitude/2138764. French Hospital Copeland Health Education Pavilion, 3rd Floor, 1911 Johnson Ave, San Luis Obispo.

ALL AGES SCULPTING WITH JOHN ROULLARD John a retired school teacher who patiently guides potters of all ages to sculpt and work on details and design. Saturdays, 1:30-3 p.m. $40. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKSHOP: LARGE PLATTER CLASS Fun for all ages. Instructors will guide you in creating large platters and decorating them. Create pieces together for your home. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $50. anamcre.com. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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.

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MONTHLY FERMENTATION CLASSES

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

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ALL LEVELS POTTERY CLASSES Anam Cre is a pottery studio in SLO that offers a variety of classes. This specific class is open to any level. Teachers are present for questions, but the class feels more like an open studio time for potters. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

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.

BEYOND THE BASICS OF WATERCOLOR WITH VIRGINIA MACK This is a class for those who love imagining ways to further their visual expressions. A watercolorbased course, but one that branches out into other media. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. $35 per class. (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

LEARN TO WEAVE MONDAYS An opportunity to learn how a four-shaft loom works. You will get acquainted as a new weaver or as a refresher with lots of tips and tricks. This class includes getting to know a loom, how to prepare/dress a loom, and much much more. Mondays, 1-4 p.m. $75 monthly. (805) 441-8257. Patricia Martin: Whispering Vista Studios, 224 Squire Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, patriciamartinartist.com.

MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 dropin; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS, CHPT. 52

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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. 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. No fee. facebook.com/groups/ PRAAphotoguild. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

BREWING SOLUTIONS: COFFEE & CLIMATE CONVERSATIONS Brewing Solutions brings people together to have open, low-pressure conversations about climate topics and to share ideas, questions, and perspectives in a supportive space. May 31 10-11 a.m. Free. tinyurl.com/SLOCCBrewingSolutions. The Bunker SLO, 810 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo.

CENTRAL COAST CONJURERS

MOBILE CLAY CLASSES Offering handbuilding, throwing, and ceramic decorative arts. All ages and abilities are welcome. Call for more info. ongoing (805) 835-5893. hmcruceceramics.com/ book-online. SLO County, Various locations countywide, San Luis Obispo. PLUG-IN TO LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION Get inspired by local action, connect with others, and discover more ways to get involved with the SLO Climate Coalition. Attend virtually or in-person. Sustainable snacks and childcare will be provided. Third Thursday of every month, 6-8 p.m. sloclimatecoalition.org/events/. Ludwick Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, San Luis Obispo.

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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.

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Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, and social identity. Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

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.

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS

Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. (805) 481-6399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

(SLO COUNTY MAGIC CLUB) Monthly meeting of magicians of all levels. Please call or email for more info. Meet likeminded folks with an interest in magic, from close-up to stage performances. Last Monday of every month, 6:30 p.m. Free. (805) 440-0116. SLO Elks Lodge, 222 Elks Lane, San Luis Obispo.

CLAY BABY HANDPRINTS Offers a unique experience of pressing your baby’s hand/foot into clay so parents can cherish this time forever. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays $55. anamcre.com/baby-handprints. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

CREATIVITY DAYS WITH THE SILK ARTISTS OF CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST An opportunity to work on your own projects and materials while picking up new skills among friends. Note: this event is held mostly every third Monday (attendees are asked to call or email to confirm ahead of time). Third Monday of every month $5; first session free. artcentralslo.com. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 747-4200.

DATE NIGHT POTTERY Bring your date and throw a cup on the pottery wheel. Next, texture a clay slab and press into a form creating a personalized piece.

RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER? May 31 1-3 p.m. (412) 477-3064. Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, Oceano, Oceano. SATURDAY FAMILY POTTERY CLASS This family-friendly open studio time is a wonderful window for any level or age. Saturdays, 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $40. Anam Cre Pottery Studio, 1243 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, anamcre.com.

SLO NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB MEETINGS Want to improve speaking and leadership skills in a supportive and positive environment? During COVID, we are meeting virtually. Contact us to get a meeting link for info. Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m. Free. slonoontime.toastmastersclubs.org. Zoom, Online, Inquire for Zoom ID. STEWARDS OF THE LAND: THE MULTIRACIAL ROOTS OF ENVIRONMENTALISM

Professor Stevie Ruiz of CSU Northridge discusses his book, “Stewards of the Land,” which traces the contributions of migrants and minorities to the environmental movement. May 30 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 781-4187. sanluisobispo.librarycalendar.com. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo. TOUR THE HISTORIC OCTAGON BARN CENTER The Octagon Barn, built in 1906, has a rich history that The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County looks forward to sharing with visitors.

LECTURES & LEARNING continued page 24

TUE, JUN 2 AT 7PM SAT, JUL 18 AT 6PM

THU, AUG 13 AT 6PM

WED, SEP 9 AT 6:30PM SAT, JUN 13 AT 7PM SUN, JUL 19 AT 7PM FRI, AUG 14 AT 7PM TUE, SEP 22 AT 7PM THU, JUL 9 AT 7PM SUN, AUG 2 AT 7PM SAT, AUG 1 AT 7PM SUN, AUG 16 AT 4:30PM FRI, SEP 25 AT 7PM FRI, JUL 17 AT 7PM

AUG 6 AT 7PM SUN, AUG 30 AT 6PM

BOB DYLAN LUCINDA WILLIAMS. JUN 17 TRAIN BARENAKED LADIES .... . AUG 22 SANTANA ........... . SEP 12 & 13

EARTH, WIND AND FIRE .... SEP 18 FREYA SKYE ............. SEP 19

BRANDI CARLILE CMAT ..... SEP 20 JACK JOHNSON G. LOVE OCT 03 & 04

JUNGLE RIO KOSTA ......... . OCT 09

HEMLOCKE SPRINGS .... OCT 17

Please RSVP. Second and Fourth Sunday of every month, 2-2:45 & 3-3:45 p.m. Tours are free; donations are appreciated. Octagon Barn Center, 4400 Octagon Way, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-9096, octagonbarn.org.

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.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

DAILY POTTERY Walk in, pick your pottery project, and paint away. Something for all ages. Prices vary depending on what you choose and includes; paint, glaze, firing, and studio time. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Varies. (805) 400-9107. artsocial805. com. ArtSocial 805 Creative Campus, 631 Spring St., Paso Robles.

DATE NIGHT Couples or friends, bring a bottle of wine and enjoy a creative night out. Have fun and get messy as the venue walks you through the basics of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Fridays, 6-8 p.m. $144. (805) 203-0335. thepotteryatascadero.com/datenight. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.

SIP N’ SKETCH/SIP N’ PAINT Bring your own supplies (or borrow some of our’s) and paint or sketch a themed live-model or still life under the guidance of Studios resident artists. See website for the specific theme

of the month. Your first glass of wine is included in price. Third Saturday of every month, 6-9 p.m. $20. (805) 238-9800. studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles.

STUDIOS ON THE PARK: CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS

Check site for a variety of classes and workshops offered. ongoing studiosonthepark.org. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles, (805) 238-9800.

TAKE A SPIN: TWO-HOUR WHEEL CLASS

These two hour blocks provide an opportunity to learn the basics of wheel throwing. Instructors will center your clay for you, so you will have the opportunity to make two items. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon $72. (805) 203-0335. thepotteryatascadero.com/wheelclasses. The Pottery, 5800 El Camino Real, Atascadero.

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.

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/.

LECTURES & LEARNING continued page 26

SIR WOMAN LIVE

The folk-pop group Sir Woman will hit the stage at Rod & Hammer on Tuesday, June 16, from 7 to 11:30 p.m. Hear as they blend R&B, soul, and funk for the night’s crowd. Tickets are $32.26 and can be purchased at slobrew.com/events.

CAR SHOW AND DONATION DRIVE

Saturday, July 25, 2026 • 10 AM – 2 PM

Santa Barbara Humane—Santa Maria Campus 1687 W Stowell Rd, Santa Maria, CA 93458

For more information, visit sbhumane.org/events

To become an event sponsor, contact Kelly at kelly@sbhumane.org or call 805-892-0088.

Water Awareness Poster Contest

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-for-ocean-artpainting/1608618057099891/. Art Center

Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay.

OPEN FLOW: DANCE AND MOVEMENT

A community of movers and shakers who come together to express themselves through dance and movement. Inspired by a variety of conscious movement modalities, Open Flow is led by Silvia Suarez and Matt Garrity, embodiment teachers who share a passion for integration through movement exploration.

Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. $10 (general), $5 (ages 55 and older).

SilviaAthaSomatics.org. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay, 772-6278.

FOOD & WINE

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.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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.

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) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

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

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

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.

FOOD & WINE continued page 28

SUMMER SONGS

Folk and Americana band Little Tyme Band, hailing from San Luis Obispo, will perform live during the First Thursdays Summer Concert Series on Thursday, Aug. 6, from 4 to 7 p.m., at J Dusi Wines in Paso Robles. The community can bring chairs to relax under golden-hour skies and enjoy food by Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill and wine by the glass or bottle. More details about this free concert are available at jdusiwines.com.

QUEER TRIVIA Sip some cider, test your LGBTQ trivia knowledge, and learn new fun facts. Topic themes and hosts rotate each week. Prizes for winners. BYO food. Third Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m. Free. (805) 292-1500. Two Broads

Ciderworks, 3427 Roberto Ct., suite 130, San Luis Obispo, twobroadscider.com.

SLO FARMERS MARKET Hosts

more than 60 vendors. Saturdays, 8-10:45 a.m. World Market

Parking Lot, 325 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

SLO GRANGE PANCAKE BREAKFAST

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

SLO RETIRED ACTIVE MEN:

WEEKLY COFFEE MEETING

SLO RAMs is a group or retirees that get together just for the fun, fellowship, and to enjoy programs which enhance the enjoyment, dignity, and independence of retirement.

Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. $10 coffee meeting. retiredactivemen.org.

Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT PUB TRIVIA

Bring your thinking cap as questions vary from pop culture, geography, to sports. There is a little for everyone. Prizes for the winning teams.

Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Free. (805) 439-2529. Oak and Otter Brewing, 181 Tank Farm Road, suite 110, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH SLO COUNTY

CAMP CASS: PIZZA MAKING CLASS Summer means it’s time for outdoor hangs and the chance to hone your pizza oven techniques. June 27, 6-8 p.m. $118. (805)239-1730. exploretock.com. Cass Winery, 7350 Linne Road, Paso Robles.

CLUB CAR BAR TRIVIA WITH DR. RICKY Teams of one to six people welcome. Visit site for more info.

Wednesdays, 7-10 p.m. my805tix.com. Club Car Bar, 508 S. Main St., Templeton.

ceviche tostadas. Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. (805) 460-6042. ancientowlbeergarden. com. Ancient Owl Beer Garden, 6090 El Camino Real, suite C, Atascadero.

TASTE OF TIN CITY WALKING TOUR

Enjoy the first ever walking tour of Tin City – an industrial area just outside of downtown Paso Robles – that is home to a community of innovative and passionate producers of highquality wines, spirits, beer, and more. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $125. (805) 400-3141. toasttours.com/tour/tincity-walking-tour/. Toast Tours, 1722 Stillwater Ct, Paso Robles.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

CLUB SUPSUP Check out the Central Coast’s newest pop-up dinner experience the last Wednesday of every month. Last Wednesday of every month, 6-9 p.m. $125. (310) 692-0046. clubsupsup.com/. Kindred Oak Farm, 1250 Paint Horse Plaza, Paso Robles. SUMMER SHRIMP BOIL Gather with friends and family on our scenic patio for a festive Summer Shrimp Boil under the evening sky at Parrish Family Vineyard! June 26 , 5:30 p.m. $40. (805) 286-4028. parrishfamilyvineyard.com. Parrish Family Vineyard, 3590 Adelaida Road, Paso Robles.

TACO TUESDAYS La Parilla Taqueria will be in the courtyard serving up their delicious tacos and tostadas. Menu typically includes barbacoa, chicken, and pastor tacos, as well as shrimp

BREAKFAST ON THE BAY A monthly occasion that brings together the passionate citizens and business owners of the greater Estero Bay region in one place to deepen connections and share information. Breakfast is included with ticket price. Third Wednesday of every month, 7:30-9 a.m. $20 per member; $25 per non-member. (805) 772-4467. morrochamber.org. Morro Bay Community Center, 1001 Kennedy Way, Morro Bay.

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.

WINEMAKER’S DINNER FEATURING

DAOU VINEYARDS Join for an unforgettable evening at Cambria Pines Lodge as we welcome Daou Vineyards for a signature Winemaker’s Dinner in our outdoor Pavilion Garden. May 31 , 5:30-8 p.m. $130. (805) 927-4200. cambriapineslodge.com.

Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Dr., Cambria. m

ART IN WAVES

An Ocean Art Painting Workshop will be held on Thursday, June 11, from 1 to 5 p.m., and Friday, June 12, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Art Center Morro Bay. Acclaimed artists Wade Koniakowsky and Colleen Gnos will lead the two-day ocean wave and pelican painting workshop, guiding participating beginningto-intermediate artists as they create wave paintings and seascapes. Tickets are $385 and can be purchased artcentermorrobay.org.

ORANGE CRUSH EXHIBIT 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) 772-2504. Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, artcentermorrobay.org.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

ANDROID PHONE CLASS First Thursday of every month Oasis Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt, (805) 937-9750.

BRUNCH AND BROWSE Shop and explore, while supporting amazing local talent. May 30 10 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 925-0951 ext 1635. cityofsantamaria.org/. Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 Park Ave., Santa Maria.

CENTRAL COAST CORVETTE CLUB Open to Corvette owners and enthusiasts. First Thursday of every month, 6 p.m. Free. (805) 934-3948. Home Motors, 1313 E. Main St., Santa Maria.

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

FIRST FRIDAY First Friday of every month facebook.com/firstfridayoldtownorcutt/. Historic Old Town Orcutt, S. Broadway and Union Ave., Orcutt.

FREE BOOK SUNDAYS FOR AGES 0-17

Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore. For ages 0-17. First Sunday of every month Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. GROUP WALKS AND HIKES Check website for the remainder of this year’s group hike dates and private hike offerings. ongoing (805) 343-2455. dunescenter.org. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe.

SANTA MARIA CAMERA CLUB

PRESENTS ANDREW KLEIN Join us for a presentation by photographer and firefighter Andrew Klein, who will share powerful photographs and firsthand stories from his experience documenting fires. June 3 7-8:30 p.m. (805) 478-3057. santamariacameraclub.org. Merrill Gardens, 1220 N Suey Rd, Santa Maria.

SANTA MARIA WOMEN’S NETWORK

HOSTS “SUMMER EXTRAVAGANZA!”

The Santa Maria Women’s Network (SMWN) invites community members to a friendly, festive gathering and an opportunity to win beautiful gift baskets! June 3 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $35. (805) 4783057. smwn.net. Santa Maria Country Club, 505 W. Waller Lane, Santa Maria.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

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

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

BEGINNER GROUP SURF LESSONS AND SURF CAMPS Lessons and camp packages available daily. All equipment included. Starts at $70. (805) 835-7873. sandbarsurf.com/. Sandbar Surf School Meetup Spot, 110 Park Ave., Pismo Beach.

JAZZ AT CRUMBLES

Crumbles Cafe and Bake Shop in Santa Maria hosts Live Jazz Saturdays, with guitarist Keegan Heitman and friends set to perform on May 30 from 2 to 4 p.m. Get a bite to eat or a drink to enjoy while listening to live music from the community. Visit instagram.com/Crumblescafeandbakeshop for more information about the show.

—A.S.

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

BEYOND MINDFULNESS Realize your potential through individualized meditation instruction with an experienced teacher via Zoom. This class is for those who wish to begin a practice or seek to deepen an existing one. Flexible days and times. Certified with IMTA. Email or text for information. Mondays-Sundays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sliding scale. (559) 9059274. theartofsilence.net. Online, See website, 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.

COMMUNITY NATIVE GARDEN MONTHLY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY

Volunteers accomplish a variety of tasks including pathways maintenance, litter patrol of the garden perimeter, weeding, irrigation system expansion/repairs, pruning, and plantings. Volunteers should bring work gloves, a hat, drinking water, and tools related to the above activities.

First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 710-3073. Nipomo Native Garden, Camino Caballo at Osage, Nipomo. 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.

LGBTQ+ FED THERAPIST LEAD

SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) A pro-recovery group offering space to those seeking peer support, all stages of ED recovery. We understand recovery isn’t linear and judgment-free support is crucial. Share, listen, and be part of a community building up each other. First Wednesday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Free. galacc.org/events/. Online, See website, Arroyo Grande.

MULTICULTURAL DANCE CLASS

FOR ADULTS Experience dance from continents around the earth, including from Africa, Europe, and more. Described as “a wonderful in-depth look at the context and history of cultures of the world.” Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $10 dropin; $30 for four classes. (510) 362-3739. grover.org. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach. Q YOUTH GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM) This is a social support group for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth between the ages of 11-18. Each week the group explores personal, cultural, 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 and fitness levels, Qi Gong revitalizes and enriches your life. An outdoor class overlooking the ocean. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card with no expiration. (805) 440-4561. pismobeach.org. Margo Dodd Gazebo, Ocean Park Blvd., Shell Beach.

QI GONG: MINDFUL MOVEMENTS FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY

Balance your mind, body, and spirit with Qi Gong — gentle stretching and strengthening movements that promotes physical wellbeing and inner peace. This is geared towards all fitness levels and ages. Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $14 per class or $55 for 5-class card. (805) 440-4561. balancedlivingayurveda.com. Shell Beach Veterans Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Ave., Pismo Beach.

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.

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.

SUNDAY EVENING RAP LGBTQ+

AA GROUP (VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM)

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

WEEKLY WATER SAFETY LESSONS

Facility advertised as open and safe. Give the office a call to register over the phone. Mondays-Fridays $160-$190. (805) 4816399. 5 Cities Swim School, 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, 5citiesswimschool.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

30-DAY BREATH AND RESET JOURNEY FOR WOMEN Wired at night, drained all day? Reset your body in 30 days. Focus on breath practices to calm stress, sleep deeply, and restore lasting energy. Registration is required. Tuesdays, 6:307:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. (805) 235-7978. charvetgratefulbody.com. Live Webinar, online, SLO County. CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.

CENTRAL COAST DIALYSIS ORGAN TRANSPLANT SUPPORT GROUP Not faith based. All are welcome. Please wear a mask. First Saturday of every month, 9:3011:30 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church SLO, 650 Pismo St., San Luis Obispo. DEATH CAFE (EVERY 1ST TUESDAY ON THE MONTH) At Death Café, curiosity and community converge for open, thoughtful conversations about mortality, loss, and our shared human experience. Donations to Hospice SLO County are always appreciated. First Tuesday of every month, 11 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 544-2266. hospiceslo.org/services/deathcaf%C3%A9. Hospice SLO County, 1304 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo.

GARDEN FOUNDER WALK AND TALK

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

HEALING DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A safe place to share feelings of depression with those who suffer and those who have recovered to a full, healthy outlook on life. Mondays, 6-7 p.m. Free. (805) 528-3194. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo.

LUNCHTIME IN THE GARDEN UC Master Gardeners of SLO County extend an invitation to the public to visit our demonstration garden. See what’s in bloom and learn something new. First Wednesday of every month, 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. through Sept. 2 Free. (805) 781-5939. ucanr.edu. Garden of the Seven Sisters Demonstration Garden, 2156 Sierra Way, San Luis Obispo.

THE YEAR OF FORAGING

Author and eco-activist Robin Greenfield will share his journey of foraging 100 percent of his food and medicine for a year during an upcoming free talk at the Dignity Health Copeland Health Education Pavilion in San Luis Obispo on Tuesday, June 2, from 7 to 9 p.m. Listen as he walks the community through his foraging journey and shares about the 1 Million Community Fruit Trees Initiative, a grassroots collaborative effort in food sovereignty. Get details at community.robingreenfield.org.

—A.S.

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.

PORTUGUESE, HOLY SPIRIT SOCIETY

115TH PORTUGUESE FESTA Joi. the celebration to honor Saint Isabella of Portugal. There will be a rosary and dance on Saturday, parade, mass, serving of sopas, and an auction on Sunday. May 30, 6-11 p.m. and May 31 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 458-9361. Trinity Hall, 6565 Edna Road, San Luis Obispo, TrinityHallSLO.com. RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER? May 31, 1-3 p.m. (412) 477-3064. Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, Oceano, Oceano. THE SLO FLOWER COLLECTIVE WEEKLY FLOWER MARKET Enjoy an amazing weekly fresh flower market, open to

the public. Enjoy the historic gardens with local blooms from nine local flower farmers. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. sloflowercollective.com. Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, 1185 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo. SLO FOOD BANK OPEN HOUSE The SLO Food Bank Open House gathers and celebrates volunteers, donors, partners, and community leaders who bring our mission to life. May 30 3-5 p.m. (805) 2384664. donate.slofoodbank.org. SLO Food Bank, 1180 Kendall Road, San Luis Obispo. SLO PHILATELIC SOCIETY The SLO Philatelic Society (SLOPS) meets at the SLO Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Visitors are welcome. First Tuesday of every month, 1-3 p.m. SLO Senior Center, 1445 Santa Rosa St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 540-9484, slocity.org/seniors.

STEWARDS OF THE LAND: THE MULTIRACIAL ROOTS OF ENVIRONMENTALISM Professor Stevie Ruiz of CSU Northridge discusses his book, “Stewards of the Land,” which traces the contributions of migrants and minorities to the environmental movement. May 30, 10:30 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 781-4187. sanluisobispo.librarycalendar.com.

San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.

TEEN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

GROUP Learn more about mental health and coping skills to help you through your journey towards wellness and recovery. Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. (805) 5406576. t-mha.org. Hope House Wellness Center, 1306 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo. TRANS* TUESDAY A safe space providing peer-to-peer support for trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and questioning people. In-person and Zoom meetings held. Contact tranzcentralcoast@gmail.com for more details. Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Free. GALA Pride and Diversity Center, 1060 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-4252.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

CENTRAL COAST WOOD CARVERS Learn the art of wood carving or wood burning. Join Central Coast Wood Carvers in Morro Bay at St. Timothy’s. Open for beginners, intermediate, or advance. Learn a wide range of techniques and skills. Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 962 Piney Way, Morro Bay, (805) 772-2840, sttimothymorrobay.org/.

GRAND OPENING OF CAYUCOS HISTORY

MUSEUM The Cayucos Historical Museum welcomes its new museum. The grand opening will be held at the Cayucos Veterans Hall at the pier. Admission is free and all are welcome. May 30 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 235-2176. Cayucos Historical Society, 10 Cayucos Drive, Cayucos, cayucoshistoricalsociety.com.

LEARN TO SAIL AT MORRO BAY YACHT

CLUB! Learn to sail at the Morro Bay’s only sailing school: Morro Bay Yacht Club. These sessions are led by competent, responsible sailing instructors. Expect a great experience, with the goal of each student being comfortable in commanding their own sailboat. There’s a focus on teamwork, developing leadership 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/.

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

This market returns for its 9th summer season in Morro Bay. This open-air 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

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS BAR TAKEOVER THURSDAYS Join us Thursdays to meet and chat with the winemaker of the flight we’re featuring that week. Thursdays, 4-7:30 p.m. $15-$30. (805) 623-5129. Steller’s Cellar, 400 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, stellerscellar.com.

FOOD TRUCK 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

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA EL

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

Next to Normal

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MAY 29-31 Cambria Center for the Arts

Giafunni’s AsianPac Comedy Night

SATURDAY, MAY 30

SUNDAY, MAY 31

Giavanni’s Pizza, Santa Maria 41st Annual Jazz Piano Showcase SUNDAY, MAY 31

Venue, Pismo Beach The Barrelhouse WailersRaider Jazz Ensemble SUNDAY, MAY 31 Pismo Beach Veteran’s Memorial Building

Carmel Lutheran Church, SLO Out & Savvy-Live Jazz Brunch

On Showcase

SUNDAY,

the winery’s Wine Club offerings. ongoing presquilewine.com/club/. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

SIPPIN’ SUNDAYS Every Sunday, come cozy up inside the tasting room and listen to great artists. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Free. (805) 937-8463. cottonwoodcanyon.com.

Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria.

TACO TUESDAY Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m. Wine

Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, (805) 332-3532, winestoneinn.com/.

THURSDAY EVENING BAR TAKEOVER

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

WINE AND DESIGN CLASSES Check

Wine and Design’s Orcutt website for the complete list of classes, for various ages. wineanddesign.com/orcutt. Wine and Design, 3420 Orcutt Road, suite 105, Orcutt.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO

TUESDAYS CLASH Don’t miss Head

Games Trivia 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

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.

SIP ROSÉ, ENJOY FRESH SEAFOOD, AND SUPPORT LAND CONSERVATION Enjoy the Rosé Release Party with Croma Vera Wines and SLO Land Conservancy. Try the new 2025 Rosé, along with a seafood pairing by Big Wave Sushi, local art, and conservation. May 31, 1-6 p.m. $14. (805) 946-1685. resy.com/cities/san-luis-obispoca/venues/croma-vera-wines/events/ rose-release-with-the-land-conservancy2026-05-31?date=2026-05-08.

Croma Vera Wines, 3183 Duncan Road, Suite D, San Luis Obispo.

GRAND OPENING

The community is invited to celebrate the grand opening of the Cayucos History Museum on Saturday, May 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Cayucos Veterans Hall at the pier, where all are welcome to explore, look, and learn about the history of this beachside burg. Admission is free, and additional information is available at cayucoshistoricalsociety.com.

SLO GREEK FESTIVAL Enjoy the SLO Greek Festival, with authentic Greek food, live music, traditional dancing, and family fun. May 30, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and May 31, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $5. (805) 546-8337. greekfestivalslo.com/. Madonna Expo Center, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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

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

LIVE JAZZ SATURDAYS Enjoy live jazz, featuring guitarist Keegan Heitman (@ keegan_heitman) and friends. May 30 2-4 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0860. instagram. com/Crumblescafeandbakeshop.

Crumbles Cafe & Bake Shop, 1635 S. Broadway, Santa Maria.

LIVE MUSIC AT STELLER’S CELLAR

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

MUSIC AT ROSCOE’S KITCHEN Live DJ and karaoke every Friday and Saturday night. Featured acts include Soul Fyah Band, DJ Nasty, DJ Jovas, and more. Fridays, Saturdays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

MUSIC LESSONS AT COELHO ACADEMY

Learn to play piano, drums, guitar, base, ukulele, or violin, or take vocal lessons. (805) 925-0464. coelhomusic.com/ Lessons/lessons.html. Coelho Academy of Music, 325 E. Betteravia Rd., Santa Maria. OLD TIME GOSPEL SING-ALONG All are welcome. Call for more details. Last Saturday of every month, 5-6 p.m. (805) 478-6198. Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria.

PRETTY IN PINK ‘80S PROM Get ready to dance the night away in ‘80s style with The Molly Ringwald Project, bringing all the hits (and the nostalgia) to our hillside amphitheater. Expect great wine by the glass and bottle, local food trucks, a throwback photo booth, and plenty of Aqua Net, shoulder pads, and synth. May 30, 6-10 p.m. $26. presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110.

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.

MUSIC continued page 34

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SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

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

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

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

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

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

AGHS BAND AND CHOIR CONCERT Come hear the Arroyo Grande High School Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Percussion Ensemble, and Choir perform their End of Year concert. May 28 , 7 p.m. $10. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

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.

LEGENDS OF THE CANYON ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS: PETTY PARTY: CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS

Petty Party is L.A.’s premier tribute to Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, featuring six of

the top tribute musicians in the industry. May 30, 7:30-9 p.m. $49.99-$59.99. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org/. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

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.

SOLEFFECT AT BLACKLAKE GOLF COURSE Join Sōleffect for a sunny afternoon of live music at Blacklake Golf Resort. May 30 1-4 p.m. soleffect. bandzoogle.com. Blacklake Golf Course, 1490 Golf Course Lane, Nipomo.

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 VOCAL STUDENT RECITAL

Enjoy this free recital, presented by Cal Poly Music Department student vocalists. June 2 7:30 p.m. Free. (805) 756-2406. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/free. Cal Poly Davidson Music Center, Room 218, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY WIND BANDS SPRING CONCERT: JOURNEY HOME The Wind Orchestra and Wind Ensemble conclude their season’s journey with a program of music by composers from here at home. May 31 3 p.m. $12-$22. (805) 756-4849. music.calpoly.edu/calendar/ winds/#spring. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

CONCERT AND ART AT THE CLUBHOUSE

SOLEFFECT AT MULLIGANS BAR & GRILL Catch Sōleffect 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 and Grill, 6460 Ana Bay Road, Avila Beach, (805) 595-4000.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

CAL POLY ARAB MUSIC ENSEMBLE SPRING CONCERTBLE World-class guest artists and a dance troupe that sets the music in motion with original choreographies will be featured. Celebrated pieces of historically interconnected cultures. May 30, 7:30 p.m. $12-$22. (805) 756-4849. music.calpoly. edu/calendar/ame/#spring. Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo.

CAL POLY SPRING JAZZ CONCERT: SOUNDS OF HARMONY Hear performances by the University Jazz Band and Vocal Jazz Ensemble, directed by

Enjoy an easygoing afternoon of live music, good food, and local art. Tri-tip BBQ, specialty drinks, and unique garden art available for purchase. May 31 , 3-7 p.m. $75. (805) 242-1076. themondayclubslo.org/summer2026/. The Monday Club San Luis Obispo, 1815 Monterey St,, San Luis Obispo.

KCBX PARKING LOT SALE Don’t miss this upcoming Parking Lot Music Sale hosted by and benefitting KCBX and KCPR at the KCBX studios. Thousands of LPs and CDs will be for sale, plus an assortment of other goods. May 30, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. KCBX Public Radio, 4100 Vachell Ln., San Luis Obispo, (805) 549-8855.

880 Chalk Hill Rd. Solvang, CA 93463

Open Tues.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.manzanitanursery.com (805) 688-9692

30+ Manzanita species!

More than 500 Native plant species!

Arts

ARTS BRIEFS

Klein Dance Arts presents its Spring Selections recital

Support Santa Maria’s youth dancers as they perform a variety of styles they’ve been hard at work perfecting. The recital will be held at Santa Maria High School inside the Ethel Pope Auditorium at 5:30 p.m. on June 5 and 2:30 p.m. on June 6.

Guest performers and Klein Dance Arts students have prepared ballet, jazz, hip-hop, tap, and Latin routines. Irene Kleinbauer of the studio said her staff and students are excited to perform for the community.

“What I enjoy most about having a dance studio is having the honor of witnessing students’ growth and confidence build while instilling a love for the arts,” Kleinbauer said in an email to the Sun

Klein Dance Arts has two studio locations in Santa Maria: 1954 S. Broadway, suite J, and 325 E. Betteravia Road, suite B-4. Classes serve adults and children as young as 2 years old at the recreational and competitive levels. The first class is free.

To sign up for volunteer opportunities and purchase tickets for the spring recital, visit kleindancearts.com. Call or text (805) 268-2530 for more information. Follow @kleindancearts on Instagram for more.

Presqu’ile Winery unveils a new art exhibition

Visitors will have to journey up to an old bunker to see artwork by Cole Sternberg at Presqu’ile Winery in Santa Maria, which is up until Sept. 20. The collaboration is supported by the Los Angeles Nomadic Division, an organization that connects people to places through art.

Sternberg is a conceptual artist who paints, sculpts, performs, photographs, and writes. He lives and works in California.

Opening day for the exhibit, called “along the high embankments,” will be celebrated on June 7 from 4 to 7 p.m. at a bunker (2510 E. Clark Ave. in Santa Maria) on the winery’s property. Family-friendly activities will be coordinated for the event by the local nonprofit, Corazón del Pueblo. The event also features live music and is open to the public free of charge.

“Like winemaking at Presqu’ile, contemporary art balances tradition and experimentation, offering new ways of seeing time-honored processes,” the winery announced in press materials.

Presqu’ile Winery has a history of bringing creativity into the wine world, like with its art vending machine that debuted in the tasting room earlier this year.

Visit the winery to see the exhibit and to enjoy a glass of wine at 5391 Presqu’ile Drive in Santa Maria. The tasting room is open on weekdays from noon to 5 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays) and weekends from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Follow @presquilewine on Instagram for all the views.

Discover more about Sternberg’s work online at colesternberg.com. m

Legendary

With help from her mentor, a Lompoc native reunites the Polynesian dance group she grew up performing in

BY MADISON WHITE

Michelle Lujan looks back at her wedding day with bittersweetness because although she didn’t know it at the time, the December day in 2019 was the last time the Pacific Legends danced before the pandemic exploded.

“To me, that’s like the marker of when it ended, but we had no idea,” Lujan told the Sun. “It left a big hole for all of us.”

Like so many treasured activities, Pacific Legends’ practices halted in 2020. Uncertainty followed.

Dancers kept asking when the troupe was going to begin again. Lujan said it broke her heart to tell them she didn’t have the answer.

Then Lujan’s goddaughter, Alexandria Corn, returned from college and revived the group, growing performance opportunities and increasing the number of dancers. Corn continued the group that her godmother ran for many years, immersing it in the community again with performances like the one coming up at the Lompoc Flower Festival in June.

Pacific Legends originated in 2002 with a handful of dancers. Lujan and her sister found themselves in the mix after moving to California from Guam.

By 2005, young Lujan was already the group’s director. The teenager led practices in her living room until they outgrew the space and moved to a studio. They rehearsed twice a week and spent extra time planning performances at community events.

Polynesian dance tells ancient stories through movement, music, and chants. Some styles require quick hip motions and a lot of stamina. Others take it slow, prioritizing hand motions to communicate parts of the story.

“Pacific Legends has always been really unique in that it also pulls from other islands of the Pacific particularly, because I’m from Guam,” Lujan said.

“We pulled from Chamorro dances as well, even though it’s not part of Polynesia. It’s part of the Micronesian islands.”

Students as young as 3 years old can learn styles of hula and ‘Ori Tahiti (Tahitian dance), too.

Community members of all ages and backgrounds are welcome, and the studio invites all experience levels.

Become a Legend

Sign up for Polynesian dance classes and summer camps by visiting pacificlegendslompoc. com. Practices take place at Velvet Movement in Lompoc (115 W. Ocean Ave.) on Fridays and Saturdays. See the group perform at the Lompoc Flower Festival the last weekend of June.

“You don’t have very many people from Guam here, so being able to have something to represent that in art that I love, it means a lot,” Lujan said.

Lujan was the Pacific Legends director until the pandemic shuttered the group. While it was stunted, she talked with Corn, her goddaughter, who was studying business administration in Georgia. The two missed their Pacific Legends community.

Lujan remembered when Corn joined the group at age 7.

“She always gave it 100 percent, 150 percent,” Lujan said.

Corn grew up in the Pacific Legends.

“[Lujan] was such a great teacher and instructor, and it really made me fall in love with the culture and the dance in general,” Corn said.

The now-director came from a background in ballet, but at Pacific Legends practices, she could just have fun. When she was a young dancer, the group felt more informal than her other trainings, performing for the community at events and festivals.

“It definitely wasn’t the competitiveness that I was used to. It was always just so loving and warm,” Corn said. “That’s what really fueled my passion for it, and that’s why I wanted to bring it back because it left such a lasting impact on me in a positive way.”

Last August, when Corn got the gang back together, she wanted to add more structure. It meant less performances and more teaching. That way new dancers could join and get comfortable with the material.

Corn oversees the whole business as the sole teacher and choreographer. A couple of other alumni help her out with the school of around 40 dancers, and Corn is thankful to have Lujan as a mentor, too.

The director wears a lot of hats. Redesigning the Pacific Legends website was no trouble, but she did have to learn how to sew to make costumes.

One “dream come true” was the first Pacific Legends recital in April this year. The director was proud to see that dancers who started mere months ago had the confidence to perform onstage.

“I believe it was like probably the first Polynesian recital in Lompoc,” Corn said.

In addition to dancing, Corn wants to share knowledge with her students about Polynesian culture and history. With young ones, Corn reads a book or teaches them how to count in Hawaiian. With older students, the instructor translates their song into English so they can learn the languages side by side.

“When we got recital costumes this year, I was able to tell them some of the cultural significance,” Corn said about hula skirts. “I teach them the importance of how to take care of your pā‘ū skirt. For example, it should never be thrown on the floor. It always should be put over your head. You never step into it because if you step into it, it touches the floor. It disrespects the skirt and the creator of the skirt.”

During the last five minutes of class for her middle age group, Corn gives students a word or sentence for them to enact with their hands. Recently she prompted: The sun is rising from the waves. One student made a circle with her hands, starting at her chest and continuing above her head. Another made a big circle with her arms and mimicked a wavy motion.

“The big thing for us is once you’re a Legend, you’re always a Legend. It’s something you kind of carry with you,” Corn said. “Even though it’s such a small group, it was something so special and big in our hearts.”

Now the group has been around long enough that some of the alumni’s kids are dancers, including Lujan’s daughter. The former director said Corn and her team have done a wonderful job taking Pacific Legends to the next level.

“Watching her teach my little one is just amazing because I know that she’s got a good heart for it,” Lujan said. “She’s putting in the time to understand the stories, the culture, and then being able to share that in a way that keeps all the dancers engaged and wanting to come back.” m

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

THURSDAY–SUNDAY MAY 28–31 GRAND

THE FLYING COWBOYS

May ‘The Force’ be near

JWhat’s

What’s

What’s it

Where’s it

on Favreau (Elf, Iron Man, The Lion King) directs this screenplay co-written with Dave Filoni and Noah Kloor about former lone bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal), also known as The Mandalorian, and his Yoda-like apprentice, Grogu, who are working for the New Republic under orders from Col. Ward (Sigourney Weaver) to hunt down Galactic Empire Imperial warlords. After a semi-successful mission, they return to base and are tasked with rescuing Rotta the Hutt (voiced by Jeremy Allen White) and returning him to his crime lord aunt and uncle in exchange for information about the New Republic’s real target, notorious imperial warlord Janu Coin (Jonny Coyne). (132 min.)

Regal

Glen: This is the first new Star Wars film released in theaters since 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker, and it’s essentially a continuation of the Favreau-created TV series The Mandalorian (2019 to 2023). There’s lots of action, chases, battles, and CGI, some of it effective and some a little clunky. I personally like the charm of the practical effects like the puppetry of Grogu and the Anzellans‚ the tiny mechanics that fix spacecraft. In fact, this film is filled with adorable little creatures in addition

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What’s it rated? R When? 2026

Where’s it showing? Hulu

Linda (Rachel McAdams) is great at her job— too great. Credit for her work is overlooked or stolen by her superiors. When the one person she connected with—the boss—dies, Linda’s hope of moving up is crushed by his douchebag son and nepo-baby CEO Bradley Preston (Dylan O’Brien). He’s disgusted by her immediately, dismissive and rude.

to horrifying monsters, including in two set pieces, one in a battle arena and another in a water-filled underground lair with a very nasty albino dragon with a poisonous bite. Your teens will love it, but will you? As Star Wars stories go, it’s OK but hardly one of the great installments. I loved the scene with Martin Scorsese voicing Hugo Durant, a four-armed street food vendor Din pressures for info. I also liked the CGI pilot Zeb Orrelios (voiced by Steve Blum). For Star Wars fans, nothing I say will dissuade you from going. For others, the arresting visuals make it a spectacle worthy of the big screen, but don’t expect the franchise’s early glory.

Lompoc, Regal

Edwards Arroyo Grande

Anna: I’m certainly under no delusions that anything we say would talk a die-hard Star Wars fan out of seeing it—and they definitely should! Get in that dark theater, sit back, and enjoy every battle, creature, close call. For me, an appreciator of the franchise but not a self-proclaimed fan, it was entertaining but a bit long.

I’m fairly certain I finished The Mandalorian series and enjoyed the novelty of Baby Yoda (who turned out to be named Grogu) and Pedro Pascal’s reveal. I don’t know that it needed a movie, but who wouldn’t chase that cash grab? I too was most entertained by the puppetry— even more by the Anzellans. I’d watch those little cuties bop around muttering all day. It’s

Soon enough, the two and others are on a plane to try and land a client, and when that plane goes down, Linda and Preston are left alone on a beach. What we learn shortly before the crash is that Linda auditioned for Survivor and she’s a diehard fan. Because of that, she’s able to keep the two alive, even with Preston having an injured leg. What ensues feels at first like a corny rom-com twist is on the horizon, but what comes is much better—and much darker. Linda leans into the island life, and when Preston senses she may not be trying to get rescued, he revolts. Things don’t go as planned for either character, and we end up with a twisted tale with some pretty surprising

moments. It is definitely worth streaming—you’ll want to brush up on your survival skills after this one. (114 min.)

—Anna

battle after battle, and The Mandalorian gets compromised more than I remember in the series, but what are the chances we’ll lose our hero now? You likely already know whether you’re going to see this one in the theaters, so trust your Jedi instincts.

Glen: The good news is there are no groaner characters like Jar Jar Binks, wooden performances like Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker, or miscasts like Natalie Portman as Padmé Amidala. In case you noticed,

TOM CLANCY’S JACK RYAN: GHOST WAR

What’s it rated? R When? 2026

Where’s it showing? Prime Video

Andrew Bernstein directs this feature length installment in the Jack Ryan franchise, this time starring John Krasinski from the Jack Ryan TV show spinoff (2018-23). Before Krasinski, Harrison Ford, Chris Pine, and Ben Affleck had played the character—a former U.S. marine who became a professor at the U.S. Naval Academy before working as an analyst for the CIA, and later a reluctant field operator. When this film opens, Ryan is out of the spy game and working as a stockbroker on Wall Street, split from his wife and disillusioned with his time as an operative, but when his old boss James Greer (Wendell Pierce) come calling with a simple “favor”—fly to Dubai and retrieve a package—you know it’s going to go sideways. The adventure that also involves MI6 agent Emma Marlow (Sienna Miller) takes him to London.

In the grand scheme of the franchise, this one’s pretty middling, but if you have Prime and you like spycraft and action, it will do. The scenery and cinematography are great, and

I thought the prequel trilogy was dreadful. This one’s fun but forgettable.

Anna: True, definitely not a bomb, and there’s plenty of fun. Quick quips, funny and adorable characters, lots of action, great scenery—it all works. Did it need to last for 132 minutes? Not in my opinion, but I’m sure others will be just fine. m

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

Where the wild things

are

Los Padres ForestWatch hosts a dinner that connects people with the land

BY MADISON WHITE

One summer evening, 50 strangers will have the luxury of breaking bread together. They’ll be seated amid the grapevines at Larner Vineyard and Winery, looking out at where the contents of their glasses ripened. The breeze whispering by might’ve blown in from a farm that grew the produce that’ll soon dress their plates.

“The Wilderness Table specifically is an event that’s really about celebrating the relationship between healthy landscapes and healthy communities,” Keri Setnicka told the Sun She directs communications for Los Padres ForestWatch, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting public lands. The organization’s third Wilderness Table dinner is planned for June 7. Proceeds fund ForestWatch’s ongoing educational outreach to preserve the wilderness, like its upcoming town hall series that teaches residents about threats to the federal Roadless Area Conservation Rule.

One of ForestWatch’s missions is to help community members see how humanity is connected to the landscape.

“Public lands and healthy ecosystems are not separate from everyday life,” Setnicka said. “They influence the food that we eat, the water that we rely on, and the places that we recreate. The places that define the Central Coast.”

There’s no better way to spread this message than to take people out for an experience with the land. These dinners offer an elevated level of appreciation versus attending a meeting or clicking the follow button on social media, Setnicka said.

Guests will be greeted with a welcome cocktail from Rock 12. The Lompoc-based distillery’s orchards produce apples, apricots, and quince for its spirits. Happy hour will also include a locally sourced antipasto table for grazing in between sips.

The group will then set off for a tour of the Larner vineyards. Winemaker Michael Larner deeply understands his land, especially having studied geology before running the winery.

Part of what makes his grapes so special is what’s beneath them. In Santa Barbara County the land typically has a lot of marine layers like chalk and limestone.

“What’s also unique for our vineyard in particular is that we have a very high sand content above that marine sediment,” Larner explained. “It makes a very stressful growing environment, which in this case is good, because opposite to most table fruits, we are growing wine grapes. Stress can actually add a little more complexity.”

If he does his job right, he said, most of the wine is made in the vineyard. It means spending less time in the winery because the maximum expression of the fruit was achieved in the fields.

Larner Vineyard and Winery is certified organic, and the team wants to be a good steward of the land. The team aims to find synergy working alongside organizations with similar missions.

“If a nonprofit organization wants to work with us doing something that’s going to preserve the land, that’s something we always want to support,” the winemaker said.

When it’s time for dinner, Larner will give a rundown of the wines that’ll

accompany each course. Diners can expect one white (or two if it’s an especially warm day) and a couple of reds. As a winemaking professor at Allan Hancock College, he’s no stranger to educating.

“I love sharing my knowledge of wine and some of my experiences and passion and hopefully introduce people to new concepts or at least open their minds to new wines that they maybe haven’t tried,” Larner said.

He’ll likely start off with the vibrant malvasia bianca, moving on to the Elemental, a blend of grenache, syrah, and mourvèdre. The winery’s estate syrah will most definitely be poured, too. The winemaker said it’s probably the best representation of his land.

It’ll be hard to go wrong when Larner knows every dish will be “super wine friendly.”

It’s not caterer Brett Stephen’s first rodeo either. Cooking is essentially the only job he’s had since age 14.

“I just love food,” Stephen said. “I love to cook.”

It is, however, the first time his catering business, High on the Hog, is serving the Wilderness Table event. Since it’s a charitable dinner, the chef’s goal was to design a menu filled with “the most dynamic, fun, beautiful food for the most reasonable cost” so ForestWatch can maximize the night.

Stephen enjoys the variability of catering and crafting menus to fit his clients’ wishes. It’s more of a demand, bringing equipment and food on-site, but cooking something new every day is worth it for him.

The June dinner is family style, but each round will be its own course. To start, a greens and beets salad drizzled with an avocado-based dressing alongside his wife’s focaccia bread. Then, roasted rainbow carrots over fava bean hummus topped with za’atar seasoning and parsley. The midpoint will be marked by charred cabbage

and crispy shallots coated in a Thai peanut sauce.

For entrées, Stephen will prepare a seared albacore over orzo salad and a classic chicken cacciatore with velvety polenta.

As the last course, the chicken must be able to withstand the time. Stephen penciled it onto the menu partly because it’ll increase in quality while it sits on the burners instead of the opposite.

“It’s the same as slow braising it in the oven,” Stephen said. “I’m just taking it out of the oven and holding it somewhere for it to slowly continue carrying over that cook and finishing, so that it’s tender and moist and not dried out.”

Stephen and his team use local and seasonal ingredients, right down to the strawberries that’ll drape over a brown butter pound cake for dessert. The fruit hails from Buellton’s Sunrise Organic Farm, in the same city as High on the Hog’s commercial kitchen.

“We’re pretty blessed to be in this area and have access to so many amazing farms,” Stephen said.

Though it falls in the heat of the busy catering season, ForestWatch’s cause is one of two (nature and dogs) that Stephen is always happy to support. m

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