Sun, September 18, 2025

Highest 2 Lowest: a rousing thriller [24]

Practice paradox

Orcutt youth football coach sues Central Coast league after his team was disqualified from competition, he was suspended [6]

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

More on Guadalupe’s Royal Theater project [4]

Bien Nacido celebrates two decades [26] Words from a numbers person [22]

Youth football players who happen to be on the same baseball team decided to play some football after baseball practice one day, and now the entire Orcutt Youth Football League is being punished. The Central Coast Youth Football League suspended the team’s coach for the alleged “illegal practice” and initially suspended the seven players and the Orcutt league was barred from participating in a regional competition. Coach John De Marco, who wasn’t on the field that day, recently sued the Central Coast league over the decision. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood writes about the issue and the lawsuit [6]. Also, read about another hiccup for the Guadalupe Royal Theater [4]; a Nipomo author who switched from numbers to words [22]; and Bien Nacido’s celebration of 20 years of winemaking [26]

• U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-California) recently introduced the Empowering Striking Workers Act, which allows striking workers to be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. According to Schiff’s office, the bill supports workers who exercise their legal right to collectively bargain and improve their working conditions. Workers would be eligible for benefits the day a lockout begins, the date the employer hires permanent replacement workers, or if the worker is unemployed after a strike. “Workers must be able to meaningfully exercise their right to protest for better wages and benefits and cannot do so if their families are going hungry,” Schiff said in a Sept. 8 statement. “The Empowering Striking Workers Act ensures striking workers can receive the financial support they need while on the picket lines—to help level the playing field with the corporate executives sitting across the table from them who continue to draw a paycheck.”

• U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) was among more than 60 officials behind a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) about the use of racial profiling in immigration enforcement. “We have been concerned by recent statements and actions undertaken by DHS that seem to indicate that the department is unlawfully using race as a basis for conducting immigration enforcement operations,” the Sept. 11 letter states. “A strategy of immigration enforcement that singles out law-abiding people solely because of their race is at odds with our Constitution’s commitment to both equality and freedom from unreasonable searches.” Under the Fourth Amendment, federal agents generally may not stop someone unless agents have good reason to suspect they’re breaking laws. According to Carbajal’s office, a growing number of people—many of them Latino—have reported being targeted, harassed, and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents solely because of their race. In July, a federal judge issued an order that stopped ICE from targeting people based on race, language, and work. However, the Supreme Court temporarily lifted the order while the case continues. As a result, ICE agents can resume making indiscriminate stops for the time being, underscoring the need for immediate answers and accountability from DHS on the use of racial profiling in immigration enforcement, according to Carbajal’s office.

• On Sept. 12, U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-California), Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), and more than 20 other lawmakers co-signed a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought and Education Secretary Linda McMahon calling for the immediate release of $52.1 million in previously mandated funds for the High School Equivalency Program (HEP) and the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP). These programs support educational opportunities for students from agricultural farmworker families. Across the nation, HEP and CAMP programs serve more than 8,000 students whose families work to put food on America’s tables. California receives the largest allocation of HEP/CAMP funding, according to Padilla’s office. The refusal to release this funding that Congress has previously approved threatens to undermine these students’ success, the letter states. “Continuing and potential new grantees, all of which are colleges and nonprofit organizations, were slated to receive funding and begin providing support to students by July 1 but have yet to receive the funding that Congress provided earlier this year,” the letter states. “Grantees have not received followup information as to when the funds will be released, which has imposed challenges on individuals and families served by these programs and applicants and grantees (and their employees) impacted by the uncertainty and delay.” m

Hancock, Cuesta colleges could lose funding designed to help Latino students

Of the 171 Hispanic-Serving Institutions throughout the state, two of them are right here on the Central Coast. But an executive order from the White House is now posing a threat to the funding that schools like Allan Hancock and Cuesta colleges can receive from the grant program.

On Aug. 25, U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) issued a statement to the Trump administration, condemning its decision to rescind the Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) grant program that provides $350 million in funds to designated institutions throughout the country.

“The Trump administration’s refusal to defend the Hispanic-Serving Institutions program will jeopardize the education of not only the two-thirds of all Latino college students who attend HSIs, but millions of students from all backgrounds who attend these important institutions across the country,” Padilla said in the statement.

Trump initially rescinded the grant program in January, saying that HSIs were included on a list among numerous other previous “harmful executive orders and actions.”

Guadalupe disbands Royal Theater committee, prepares to appoint a new Brown Act board

Elected officials in Guadalupe recently decided it was time for the Royal Theater Capital Campaign Committee’s final curtain call, less than a year after it was formed.

Appointed by the City Council and dedicated to raising money toward renovating Guadalupe’s historic Royal Theater, the 14-member committee was started in January as a Brown Act body. Over the past nine months, the group hasn’t held a single official hearing that meets the Brown Act’s quorum standards, staff told the council at its Sept. 9 meeting.

Councilmember Whitney Furness—the sole City Council member among the committee’s 14 appointees—clarified that at least one meeting between six members took place. The Brown Act requires at least eight in attendance for a 14-member body.

“We were not informed it was a Brown Act,” Furness told city staff in September, shortly before the council voted 5-0 to dissolve the Capital Campaign Committee.

City Attorney Philip F. Sinco confirmed that he “failed to alert” the council that the Capital Campaign Committee’s structure made it accountable to Brown Act regulations.

“I apologize for my error on that. I don’t want to make any excuses why I thought it might not be a Brown Act body,” Sinco told the council. “I shouldn’t have.”

Sinco said that city staff members recently “met and discussed this conundrum and about what to do,” before recommending that the council disband the Capital Campaign Committee.

As for whether the council should replace the committee with a new body to oversee the city’s Royal Theater fundraising efforts or not, “staff kind of feels that it’s [already] the oversight committee for this project,” Sinco said.

“[Staff] decided that we really don’t want to support a Brown Act body because of the staffing required,” Sinco told the council. “We understand the desire of the community to have an input, and council’s ear, but they can also speak at public meetings such as [City Council meetings]. … But it’s up to the council to decide what to do.”

Sinco described one exception in terms of a new oversight body that staff would support because it falls outside of Brown Act territory. He suggested that the council consider appointing a temporary Royal Theater project oversight board with two City Council members, who can schedule “informal” meetings with city staff, he explained.

“You lose the [Brown Act] exception if the council sets a regular meeting schedule, so you don’t want to do that. It would just be more informal,” Sinco said. “Staff believes it would be rather efficient to have two members of the council working directly with staff members involved.”

Councilmember Furness and Mayor Ariston Julian both voiced their preferences to enact a new Brown Act body instead.

“My opinion is that there needs to be a standardized meeting,” Furness said. “What we are lacking is a regular, transparent meeting/ discussion—oversight of the project.”

The September meeting wasn’t the first council hearing where Furness raised transparency concerns about the Royal Theater project. In May, she scrutinized project manager Tom Brandeberry’s accounting practices. In July, Furness said she believed that the only way to get clear info about the project was by asking city staff “quite a bit of pointed questions.”

In response to Sinco’s two-member board proposal, Furness said she worried that could hypothetically exhaust more of staff’s time than going down the Brown Act route with monthly or bimonthly hearings.

“If we have two members of the council meeting with staff not regularly but ‘as needed,’ it would still utilize the same amount of resources if not more by pulling staff into those meetings,” Furness said. “I mean, what if we ended up meeting once a week? For two hours.”

Mayor Julian told staff he would prefer a new five-member oversight committee “meet on a regular basis [as a] Brown Act body.”

The council voted 4-1 to establish the new Brown Act board to oversee the Royal Theater project’s fundraising efforts, limited to five members it plans to appoint at a future council meeting. Councilmember Christina Hernandez dissented.

—Caleb

Wiseblood

“The previous administration has embedded deeply unpopular, inflationary, illegal, and radical practices within every agency and office of the federal government,” the January executive order said. “The injection of ‘diversity, equity, and inclusion’ (DEI) into our institutions has corrupted them by replacing hard work, merit, and equality with a divisive and dangerous preferential hierarchy.”

Funding for HSIs has been granted since the 1990s as a method to help Hispanic and low-income students achieve their academic goals. These institutions have at least 25 percent full-time enrolled Hispanic—or in California, Latino—students.

According to the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, there’s a national total of 615 HSIs.

Hancock President Kevin Walthers told the Sun that the Santa Maria community college has seen record numbers of science and math graduates in recent years, but it wouldn’t have been possible if it weren’t for funding through the HSI grant program.

“It’s unfortunate that a handful of people in Washington have decided that they want to exclude some people from higher education,” Walthers said.

More than half of Hancock’s students are Latino, Walthers said, and in 2020 the college received more than $4 million in HSI grants to build a new science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) center.

“And in doing that, we were able to do things like hire more faculty, bring in tutors, create programs, dedicate space on campus so that students who are in STEM fields have the ability to get the support they need to be successful,” he said.

Despite the Trump administration calling HSI “divisive,” Walthers said he saw it as just the opposite.

“It’s frustrating and disappointing because I was in Washington, D.C., in February meeting with staff and members of Congress from both parties, and we were consistently told, ‘Nobody’s going after the HSI designation. Nobody’s going after it because it was set up in a way that it serves the entire institution,’” he said.

When it comes to the college’s STEM center, Walthers said this still rings true.

“Your ethnicity and gender don’t matter, your major doesn’t even matter, … you can go to the STEM center and get some support there,” he

said. “But if you’re also going to be a chemistry major and engineering major, there’s a lot of resources in there to help you succeed in your classes.”

Cuesta College has been an HSI since 2016, when Latino students made up 33 percent of the student body. By fall 2025, enrollment records show that Latino enrollment has grown to 38 percent.

Cal Poly also has its sights set on being designated as an HSI but hasn’t yet met the requirements.

According to Assistant Vice President for Communications and Media Relations Matt Lazier, the university met the 25 percent Latino student threshold in 2024 but must maintain that for two additional years.

“The university is pleased with the progress it has made toward becoming an HSI and will continue to work toward this important designation,” Lazier said via email.

—Libbey Hanson

A $9.5 million grant aims to boost the Central Coast space industry

The state of California awarded a $9.5 million grant to a group of regional organizations aiming to help the Central Coast become a leader in the space industry. The group plans to use the grant for Space Vandenberg, a program that will fund innovation, education, and infrastructure to improve economic growth.

One of the key players in securing the grant was the Regional Economic Action Coalition (REACH). The organization is focused on improving economic opportunities for people in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.

To build up the space economy on the Central Coast, REACH is working with colleges, cities,

the two counties, Vandenberg Space Force Base, and the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. Together, they plan to coordinate three main programs under Space Vandenberg.

“I think it really puts the Central Coast in a position to be a leader in this global industry and to really turn the global space economy into something that can benefit the people who live and work here, the kids who grow up here,” Sally Buffalo Taylor, REACH’s senior communications director, told the Sun

To expand aerospace education, Allan Hancock College will offer credential programs, and the Santa Barbara County Education Office will provide more STEM lessons for younger students.

The grant will also fund start-up mentorship programs at Cal Poly and UC Santa Barbara.

The last piece is to plan infrastructure upgrades at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Buffalo Taylor said, that are set to be funded by the federal government in efforts to increase launch capacity.

She said REACH estimates that these programs can help bring hundreds of newly skilled workers and thousands of high-paying jobs to the Central Coast.

“It definitely felt like a big win that we’ve been working toward and planning for and envisioning,” Buffalo Taylor said of the grant.

The $9.5 million comes from the state’s California Jobs First initiative, which recently distributed $80 million to 11 projects. The projects will support more than 23,000 jobs, according to the state.

It’s a two-year grant period for REACH, but Buffalo Taylor hopes the programs will last years into the future for the Central Coast.

“Space isn’t something far away,” Buffalo Taylor said. “It’s something that people here are powering on a day-to-day basis and that’s something our kids can make a career out of.” m

—Madison White

Blurred line of scrimmage

Local volunteer coach sues the youth football league that suspended him and disqualified his team from competing regionally

BY CALEB WISEBLOOD

After John De Marco received a five-year suspension from coaching, he took the Central Coast Youth Football League (CCYFL) to court, seeking a trial by jury to examine the incident that kicked off the conflict earlier this summer.

On Aug. 17, seven young footballers from the volunteer coach’s team—made up of 24 kids total, between ages 11 and 12—met at Ernest Righetti High School for their baseball team’s practice.

The campus also hosted a youth quarterback training camp for registered participants that day, which caught some of the kids’ attention after they finished up at the baseball diamond, De Marco’s attorney, Amber Simmons, told the Sun

The private event was not affiliated with CCYFL, she explained.

“When the kids saw that was happening, they asked their dads: ‘Hey, can we stay and put in some football work together, ourselves?’” Simmons said. “These were kids who just got done with baseball practice asking their dads: ‘Can I stay and do some football exercises with my friends?’ Most

fathers aren’t going to say no to that. Especially when you’re a dad that loves football.”

One of their parents who works for Righetti had access to the school’s football pads, which he let the kids borrow for the afternoon that Sunday, Simmons continued.

Nearby, some of their CCYFL peers from other teams around the region were taking part in the private quarterback camp on campus.

“While this is happening, a parent from a player from Santa Ynez took a video of the children from Orcutt and their parents, and sent that in to CCYFL, complaining this was an illegal [football] practice,” Simmons said. “Even though their child was literally practicing, but [with] a paid coach.”

Two days later, coach De Marco and the seven Orcutt players were suspended by the CCYFL and Orcutt Youth Football was fined $250 without a warning or a formal investigation, Simmons stated in her client’s complaint, filed in court on Sept. 8.

De Marco retained Simmons’ Orcuttbased law firm in late August with the hope of resolving the dispute outside of court, the local attorney told the Sun. Although De

Marco wasn’t at the Sunday gathering, his son was among the seven players present who were suspended.

On Aug. 21, Simmons warned the CCYFL’s executive council that De Marco would file a lawsuit unless the league reversed its actions—including its decision to revoke Orcutt Youth Football’s eligibility from qualifying for American Youth Football’s competitive All-Star program.

“To set the record straight, neither Mr. De Marco nor the Orcutt Youth Football League held a team practice on [Aug. 17], or any other Saturday or Sunday for that matter,” Simmons stated in a letter to CCYFL, which bans its teams from holding team practices during weekends.

“To construe this small, voluntary gathering as ‘practice’ is arbitrary and capricious, at best,” Simmons continued. “This was [not] a team ‘practice’ by any stretch of the imagination or reading of CCYFL rules.”

In an Aug. 26 response to Simmons’ letter, CCYFL President Paco Maldonado described a handful of factors behind the board’s verdict, including the seven-player group’s “use of tackling equipment not generally available for casual recreational use”—including pads, sleds, and helmets.

Maldonado noted that some of the parents present at the Sunday gathering were assistant coaches who volunteered under head coach De Marco with the Orcutt Youth Football League (OYFL). He also pointed out that Righetti High School is where the Orcutt divisions regularly hold team practices.

“The suggestion that this was merely parents and children ‘playing football’ is inconsistent with the evidence and contradicted by the very nature and structure of the activities,” Maldonado wrote.

“The [video] evidence shows OYFL’s own registered players, under the direction of OYFL’s own coaches, on OYFL’s designated home field,” Maldonado continued. “These are unmistakable indicators of an organized football practice conducted in preparation for the OYFL 2025 playing season. … [CCYFL] has a responsibility to uphold the integrity of the league by enforcing the rules that safeguard both player safety and fair competition.”

Maldonado’s letter also addressed Simmons’ reference to the source of the video evidence, a parent of a player with one of CCYFL’s

Santa Ynez Valley divisions who was out on the Righetti field that day for the private quarterback training camp.

Taking part in a workshop of that kind on a Saturday or Sunday doesn’t violate the league’s team practice regulations, he explained.

“If a player chooses to attend a clinic or training session with an individual or organization that has no affiliation with CCYFL or its chapters, such activity … is not, and cannot be prohibited by CCYFL rules,” Maldonado wrote.

Although CCYFL has upheld its five-year suspension of De Marco from coaching, the league’s executive council “reconsidered the discipline of the seven players who attended the practice,” Maldonado said. Their suspensions were lifted in late August, prior to the September lawsuit.

“The players themselves were placed in a difficult position by the actions of their coaches and/or parents,” Maldonado wrote. “The council’s goal is to hold adults accountable, not to penalize children. For that reason, the personal suspension of those players is withdrawn.”

De Marco’s attorney Simmons told the Sun that one of the repercussions of the Aug. 17 incident and the video footage tied to it is a lingering fear among the Orcutt division’s players of being constantly monitored.

“That’s been probably one of the saddest things about this entire dispute. It’s ruining relationships between fathers and sons because they had this shared bonding experience,” Simmons said. “Now these kids are afraid to play football with their dads or with their friends outside of an official team practice because they think they are going to get recorded. … They should be applauded for wanting to exercise on a Sunday afternoon instead of just sitting and playing video games all day.”

Simmons said that De Marco’s lawsuit will reach its first court date in February, “but that doesn’t help us now, because football will be done before then.”

She’s currently working on an injunction request, primarily to gain back the Orcutt league’s ability to count their game scores this season—which ends in November—toward being ranked in the annual All-Star program. Simmons described the motion for an injunction as asking the court for “essentially a time-out—a stop of [CCYFL’s] actions until we can have a trial.”

“A lot of these kids, who are only 11 years old, are blaming themselves for what happened,” Simmons said. “They are not fully developed emotionally and they are blaming themselves. … I personally had the chance to talk to one of the kids. I said, ‘This is not your fault. Don’t blame yourself.’” m

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

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plans many activities

Good-natured

Lompoc botanic society offers a community space for plant lovers to grow their roots

BY MADISON WHITE

Plant puns, snacks, and social hour.

Those are three things Christine Zuhlsdorf enjoys about being a member of the Lompoc Valley Botanic and Horticultural Society (LVBHS).

“Plant people tend to be pretty happy people,” the nonprofit’s president told the Sun. “Unless you get someone going on gophers.”

Or deer, another sore subject for gardeners, which ate Zuhlsdorf’s tomatoes recently.

has a different thing,”

Zuhlsdorf said. “I think what everybody wants to do is just share information about plants, whether it’s for food, for decoration, for conservation.”

Each meeting features a demonstration or talk by a community member. Some are technical, but others apply to everyone in the group.

Zuhlsdorf remembers talks about using herbs for cooking and medicine, propagating cacti, and raising worms, which was her favorite.

Deeply rooted

Along with ideas, members often exchange home-grown produce and books about plants. Plus, there’s always time for snacks and socializing at the end of the meetings, too.

The next Lompoc Valley Botanic and Horticultural Society meeting is on Sept. 21 at 2 p.m. and held at 201 S. H St. in Lompoc. To join the society and see future events, visit lvbhs.org.

LVBHS has fostered a community of plant people since it was founded in 1977 to care for the Burton Mesa Chaparral Garden. The preservation site, located at the Allan Hancock College campus in Lompoc, is filled with native plants. It represents a small remaining part of the original habitat, which has been reduced by human development. Endemic species—those that only grow naturally in one specific area—are also found in the chaparral, like the Lompoc monkey flower.

The Burton Mesa Chaparral Garden is located at the Allan Hancock College Lompoc Valley Center, 1 Hancock Drive, Lompoc.

Today, the garden still embodies an important aspect of the society’s mission. Society volunteers lead garden tours with students and community members and trim plants to keep the trails clear.

“I really like the society. I really enjoy the nature of it,” Zuhlsdorf said. “There’s almost a pun there.”

LVBHS is deeply rooted in Lompoc history and used to hold an annual plant sale as a fundraiser. Seed companies donated flower seeds to the society, and it sold them at a discounted rate to the public. Now, the club’s only revenue is earned by collecting dues from members.

The club is laid-back, Zuhlsdorf explained, with only five meetings per year. It’s run completely by volunteers and has about 50 members who can be as involved as they want in club activities. Anyone is welcome to join.

One of the main goals is for members to exchange information about plants. If one member has a question, there’s a good chance another member knows the answer.

“There’s so much knowledge, and everybody

The society’s next gathering is on Sept. 21 at 2 p.m.

Members will learn how to make their own self-watering moss poles for plants to wrap themselves around, increasing stability. The pole only needs to be filled with water about once a month, Zuhlsdorf said, so it’s a low-maintenance solution for anyone who thinks they “can’t keep a plant alive.”

In the future, the society is looking to reboot its plant sale and plan fundraisers to fund educational grants for schools.

“We’d like to move forward and grow more,” Zuhlsdorf said.

This time, no pun intended.

Highlights

• This year’s final Downtown Fridays in Santa Maria is planned for Sept. 26 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The family-friendly festival includes local food and wine vendors, kids activities, and live music in English and Spanish. Admission and parking are free. Email event promoter Ed Carcarey, edcarcarey@yahoo.com, for more information.

• The Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce hosts free Build Your Business breakfast meetings every Friday from 8 to 9 a.m. Attendees will hear testimonials from various professionals and get the chance to network with chamber members in the business community. Individuals can attend twice before becoming a member of the chamber. Meetings are hosted at Simple Café, 3546 Skyway Drive, in Santa Maria. m

and nonprofit information to spotlight@santamariasun.com.

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

Saturday, October 18th, 2o25 • 1pm - 4pm

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How to destroy California

‘King Newsom’ and your elected Democrats are taking down our once golden state bit by bit

BY RON FINK

For decades California has had a single political party running the show in Sacramento; this had led to a steady decay in education, infrastructure, and public safety; a massive growth in the homeless population; outrageous cost for housing; and ineffective use of taxpayer dollars.

Two recent actions by our elected officials point out how bit by bit Democrats have been destroying our once “golden state.” Democrats pay taxes too; they should be embarrassed about how their money has been wasted by the people they elected.

There are several examples. The first, Senate Bill 54, repeals an existing state law that “provides that when there is reason to believe that a person arrested for a violation of specified controlled substance provisions may not be a citizen of the United States, the arresting agency shall notify the appropriate agency of the United States having charge of deportation matters.”

In other words, your elected representatives think that illegal aliens should be given a free pass to commit crimes and still be allowed to remain in the state. Thus, the state of California has determined that it will no longer comply with or assist with the enforcement of federal law. The result, based on many reports, is that once released for the initial crime they frequently commit other crimes including assault, robbery, theft, and even murder.

This is a direct and calculated threat to public safety and should not be tolerated by the electorate.

Next is Proposition 50, the Use of Legislative Congressional Redistricting Map Amendment. Contrary to the California

Constitution, the king of our state, Gavin Newsom, contrived a plan to place this measure on the ballot to further strengthen the power of those politicians who have a strong commitment to the destruction of our inner cities and the state in general.

What King Newsom has done violates Section 8 of the California Constitution, which states “(b) An initiative measure may be proposed by presenting to the secretary of state a petition that sets forth the text of the proposed statute or amendment to the Constitution and is certified to have been signed by electors equal in number to 5 percent in the case of a statute, and 8 percent in the case of an amendment to the Constitution, of the votes for all candidates for governor at the last gubernatorial election.”

For all of you who may disagree that Democrats are destroying our state, look around or take note of how they spend your money. Billions spent to “solve the homeless problem” resulted in more homeless on the streets and no accountability to determine where all the money went.

Other issues include soaring housing costs due to new state regulations, which increased the cost of construction, and a deterioration of neighborhoods by changing zoning standards to allow houses to be placed within 5 feet of the property line and eliminating on-site parking requirements.

Media reports say that a couple looking for a home to buy would have to save for 10 years just to make a down payment, then earn a substantial income for 15 to 30 years to make monthly payments.

Speak up! Send us your views and opinion to letters@santamariasun.com.

Concerning all the “problems” politicians identify during political campaigns, you must wonder why once elected they have no solutions for those problems. Their solution seems to be to either make the problem worse or just wait until the next election

when they say they need more time (“elect me again”) to solve the same problems. If we ever want to regain the title “the Golden State,” something needs to change, and it starts with new political leadership. m

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

Choosing our Earth

On July 19, the world lost a visionary teacher, scholar, and beloved friend: Joanna Macy (19292025). A guiding light in systems thinking, deep ecology, and Buddhist philosophy, Joanna touched countless lives with her intellect, her heart, and her unwavering commitment to life on Earth.

On Aug. 15, 2025, Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize formalized an agreement to create a tri-national reserve across 5.7 million hectares of the Mayan rainforest—a bold alliance in safeguarding biodiversity, indigenous wisdom, and ecological resilience. This is, in spirit and scale, the kind of regenerative response Joanna championed—a communal turn toward interconnection, care, and cosmic-scale healing.

In sharp contrast, the Dana Reserve mega-development in Nipomo, California, casts a long shadow of ecological disregard. Approved in April 2024, this 288-acre housing project includes up to 1,400 residential units, commercial zones, parks, and more—all at the expense of a rare and irreplaceable woodland ecosystem. Lawsuits from the Nipomo Action Committee and the California Native Plant Society resulted in a settlement that reduces development by approximately 229 units (about 16 percent smaller), halves affordable housing from 156 to 78 units, and protects additional oak trees and manzanita plants. The agreement also includes off-site habitat mitigation.

Critics see this as a partial concession that still prioritizes development over preservation, even as it acknowledges the urgency of ecological responsibility.

Local naturalists warn that the loss is not only about trees; it’s the disappearance of complex habitat networks that cannot be recreated in our lifetimes.

Developers propose planting 1,500 to 3,000 new oak trees on-site and conserving up to 14,000 oaks on a 400-acre off-site parcel. This effort, while seemingly substantial, still fails to account for:

• Temporal inequity: Mature trees take decades—centuries—to mature.

• Different habitat context: Off-site parcels may not contain the same sensitive species or ecological conditions as the original site— meaning true habitat replacement is impossible.

Residents are grieving—not just the loss of trees, but a loss of identity, history, and place. These oak woodlands symbolize more than ecology—they are legacies etched into ground that sustained generations, including the Chumash people, and now face irreparable removal.

The Great Mayan Forest Corridor is regenerative, collaborative, and indigenousinclusive. It preserves an ancient forest and biodiversity, embodies deep belonging and reciprocity, and is aligned with Joanna Macy’s vision. The conservation is rooted in healing and systemic change.

The Dana Reserve is driven by growth, fragments the community, and is contested. It will result in massive deforestation and ecosystem destabilization, erases local identity and natural heritage, and is not aligned with Joanna’s vision.

Something fishy

Some punishments go too far. Like the prison sentences our justice system once assigned to criminal offenders caught with marijuana thanks to the “war on drugs.”

They were aggressive.

And aggressive is exactly how the Central Coast Youth Football League is being when it comes to the Orcutt Youth Football League. It’s confusing, but the Central Coast league oversees the Orcutt league and decided to throw the playbook at Orcutt for seven players who allegedly had an “illegal practice” one Sunday after baseball. It’s not even half the team.

These players had pads and helmets on, assistant coaches (who happened to be their fathers) were there, and it was filmed by an opposing team parent from Santa Ynez. Those coaches were suspended for the season. Those seven players who are part of a 24-member youth football team were initially also suspended, and the team’s coach who wasn’t even there received a five-year suspension!

On top of that, none of the Orcutt teams can compete in the All-Stars competition. The entire league is being punished because seven football players who also play baseball together decided they wanted to play some football after practice. Seems harmless to me.

And a five-year suspension for the coach who wasn’t even there and didn’t know about the practice? That’s aggressive. What’s the Central Coast board’s beef with Coach John De Marco? Why does he get five years and the coaches who were actually on the field only get one? Seems weird. Seems fishy.

And every child who plays in the Orcutt Youth Football League deserves to be punished? It’s youth football. Not the National Football League. Not college football. Not

even high school football. These children are 11 years old with volunteer coaches. Chill. Out.

You know what’s also dramatic? Guadalupe and the never-ending Royal Theater project debacle.

Remember that Capital Campaign Committee the City Council decided to form to help raise the funding shortfall to finally get the project off the ground?

They had one meeting in nine months. They violated the Brown Act when they had it. And the council recently decided to dissolve it and form a different committee. What?

City Attorney Philip F. Sinco confirmed that he “failed to alert” the council about the whole Brown Act thing.

“I apologize for my error on that. I don’t want to make any excuses why I thought it might not be a Brown Act body,” Sinco told the council. “I shouldn’t have.”

He added that city staff felt that there didn’t need to be a committee at all. It’s too much extra work and city staff is already providing oversight! Well. City residents don’t feel that way. And it doesn’t appear that way, either. This thing is a mess!

And City Councilmember Whitney Furness, who’s been calling for transparency since before the committee was formed and then served on the committee again called for transparency! What?

“What we are lacking is a regular, transparent meeting/discussion—oversight of the project,” she said.

I’m so confused. Isn’t that what was supposed to happen with the Capital Campaign Committee?

What really seems to be lacking is leadership, organization, and accountability. How about the council form a committee on that? m

The Canary is also aggressive. Send beef to canary@santamariasun.com.

S e p t e m b

p r o f e s s i o n a l s K E Y N O T E

n e

Patricia Ann Harkins

Patricia Ann Harkins was born on July 5, 1947, in Long Beach, California, at Los Cerritos Maternity Hospital. She passed away peacefully on May 11, 2025, in Santa Maria.

Pat was a cherished longtime resident of Santa Maria, remembered for her warmth, kindness, and the way she made everyone feel welcome. She lived a full and happy life centered around her family, friends, students, and community. After graduating at Ventura High School she pursued becoming a teacher. She went on to marry Jerrol (Jerry) Mercer and had their beautiful daughter Melissa. Teaching and being a mother was her passion, and even after retiring, she continued to care for children in ways like sponsoring those in need around the world and many more. She also gave her time to volunteering locally and was a member of the Elks Lodge. Life brought Pat both joy and heartache. She suffered the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Jerry, and their daughter, Melissa, far too soon. She left this world on Mother’s Day, joining them in what can be thought of as the first of many eternal Mother’s Days together. Pat honored Jerry and Melissa every day, keeping their memories alive through her stories. She and Melissa shared a love for country living and a spirit of adventure, often finding joy

in traveling together.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Camilis and Charles; her husband, Jerry; her brother, Richard; Nephew, Thomas; and her daughter, Melissa. She is survived by her great-niece, Kailey, along with many dear friends and loved ones whose lives she touched with her wonderful heart. Pat will be remembered most for her love of children, her devotion to family, and her endless kindness to all who knew her.

Hot Stuff

WILD WOOD CUTTING

The California Nature Art Museum in Solvang will feature a new solo exhibition, Wild in California, by museum founder, conservation advocate, and artist Patti Jacquemain, beginning Saturday, Sept. 20. The showcase of woodcut prints and mosaics highlighting California’s bioregions and species will be on display for the public until Monday, Feb. 23. The museum is open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., (excluding Tuesday and Wednesday), and weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additional information can be found at calnatureartmuseum.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: 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/.

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

IT BEGINS WITH LIGHT AT GALLERY

LOS OLIVOS See Linda Hanly’s and Ellen Yeomans’ exhibit “It Begins With Light,” where their exquisite paintings that celebrate “light” on their canvases are on display now at the gallery, open daily. Mondays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Sept. 30 (805) 688-7517. GalleryLosOlivos.com. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos.

WILD IN CALIFORNIA SOLO

EXHIBITION See the exhibition Wild in California, a solo exhibition by Museum Founder, conservation advocate, and artist Patti Jacquemain. A array of woodcut prints and mosaics will be showcased, highlighting the bioregions and species that make up California’s

rich biodiversity. Sept. 20 - Feb. 23 calnatureartmuseum.org/news/wildin-california-2025. California Nature Art Museum, 1511-B Mission Dr., Solvang.

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

RENÉ VACA 2025 Goldenboy presents René Vaca 2025 Tour on Wednesday at Lobero Theatre. Sept. 24 , 7:30-9:30 p.m. $41 - $91. (805) 963-0761. lobero.org/. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido, Santa Barbara.

TELLING OUR STORIES Lompoc Theatre

Project is excited to announce a brand new six-week storytelling and poetry workshop for adults, “Telling Our Stories”. More info at the link. Sept. 28 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 400-7145. lompoctheatre. org/tellingourstories. Lompoc Theatre, 112 North H Street, Lompoc.

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY 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.

EMBROIDERER’S GUILD OF AMERICA

The Bishop’s Peak Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America invites you to attend its monthly meeting. Third Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Ave., Grover Beach.

EVERYDAY IMPROV: SKILLS FOR LIFE

These interactive, welcoming workshops use the tools of improvisational theater— like play, spontaneity, and “yes, and”—to build real-life skills for communication, confidence, and connection. Every other

Sunday, 6-7:30 p.m. through Nov. 16 $15 each or $75 all. theagilemind.co/. Women’s Club of Arroyo Grande, 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande, (805) 270-5523.

FREE MOVIE NIGHT IN THE SECRET

GARDEN: THE AVENGERS (2012 THE ORIGINAL) Enjoy a night of unstoppable action and an unforgettable showdown. Join the adventure, feel the thrill, and experience The Avengers like never before. Bring a blanket and grab your favorite Secret Garden snacks! Sept. 19 7 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. The Secret Garden at Sycamore Mineral Springs, 1215 Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, (805) 595-7302.

FRIENDS OF THE ARROYO GRANDE

LIBRARY ART AUCTION The first ever art auction fundraiser for Friends of the AG Library is now live. Includes work by local artist Ellen November. Every 30 days, 9 a.m. (310) 384-6912. app.galabid.com/aglibrary/ items. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo. GREAT AMERICAN MELODRAMA: 50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECTACULAR Full of songs, dance, and comedy to celebrate the milestone, with loads of opportunities to boo and cheer. Through Sept. 20 americanmelodrama.com. Great American Melodrama, 1863 Front St., Oceano.

SAN FRANCISCO STAND-UP COMEDY COMPETITION FINAL ROUND The San Francisco Stand-Up Comedy Competition brings together the finest comedic talent from across the country. Catch the Final Round! Sept. 19 7:30-9:30 p.m. $35-$59. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

41ST ANNUAL CENTRAL COAST WRITERS’ CONFERENCE CCWC 2025, for writers of all levels and genres, features more than 45 presenters, breakout sessions, Master Classes, Teen Program, keynote speakers, bookstore, vendors, and networking opportunities. Sept. 26 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sept. 27 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $300 Regular Conference/$150 for Master Classes. (805) 610-4252. cuesta.edu/ writers-conference/index.html. Cuesta College, Highway 1, 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. (805) 7474200. artcentralslo.com/gallery-artists/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

BEGINNING WATERCOLOR WITH JAN FRENCH You’ve heard watercolor is daunting, but it’s still fascinating you. Come be introduced to this tricky but dynamic painting medium! Sept. 25 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $100. (805) 747-4200. i0.wp.com/artcentralslo.com/ wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ Beginning-WC-French-September25-1.jpg ?fit=1275%2C1650&ssl=1. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

CERAMIC LESSONS AND MORE Now offering private one-on-one and group

lessons in the ceramic arts. Both hand building and wheel throwing options. Beginners welcomed. ongoing (805) 8355893. hmcruceceramics.com/. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

DID SOMEONE SAY MURDER? What could possible go wrong with a prerecorded radio show?Our favorite actors return for a night of suspicion, murder, mishaps, and laughs! Doors will open a half-hour prior to each performance. Sept. 26 7 p.m. and Sept. 27 3 p.m. $15.81. my805tix.com. CongregationHouse, 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo. FORTINBRAS-UBU’S OTHER SHOE STAGED READING Picking up where Shakespeare’s Hamlet left off, Fortinbras gives us the chance to laugh at just how ridiculous life, truth, authority and leadership can be. Sept. 26 7-9 p.m. and Sept. 27, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. $18-$23. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/shows/stagedreading-fortinbras/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE Get ready for a hilarious and heartfelt journey through love, dating, marriage, and everything in between! This show is the perfect date night—or friend night—out! Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., Fridays, 7-9 p.m., Saturdays, 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. and Sundays, 2-4 p.m. through Sept. 21 $28$50. (805) 786-2440. slorep.org/shows/ilove-you-youre-perfect-now-change/. SLO Rep, 888 Morro St., San Luis Obispo.

IMPRESSIONISTIC REALISM OIL

PAINTING WITH FRANK EBER Learn how to paint lively, expressive paintings with a focus on color accuracy, mark making, and the interconnection of each element. Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m.-1:15 p.m. through Oct. 28 $295 for 6 classes. (805) 747-4200. i0.wp.com/artcentralslo. com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ Frank-Eber-Advanced-Oil-Sept-Oct25. jpg?fit=1275%2C1650&ssl=1. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

JACK SHAW - KILL TONY GOLDEN

TICKET WINNER - LIVE AT LIBERTINE

Hear Cal Poly graduate Jack Shaw perform his stand-up comedy at Libertine. Jack has won a golden ticket on Kill Tony, has been touring the country performing stand-up comedy at The Comedy Mothership, The

Comedy Store, Bridgestone Arena, and many more. He has appeared in national commercials for Spectrum, Subway, and Sling TV, and has acted in Hulu’s Good American Family and Tubi’s Game Bros. Sept. 20 8 p.m. $17.91. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337. 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.

PLEIN AIR PAINTERS OF THE CENTRAL COAST A self-directed fun group of dynamic artists who enjoy painting and sketching outdoors. Artists meet on site at various locations. Weekly plein air destinations are provided by Kirsti Wothe via email (mrswothe@yahoo.com). Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon SLO County, Locations countywide, San Luis Obispo. SIJI KRISHNAN Krishnan’s evocative paintings exist in a realm between memory and myth, where figures emerge from translucent layers of pigment. Sept. 20 -Jan. 11 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (805) 5438562. sloma.org/exhibition/siji-krishnan/. San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. SPLISH SPLASH! A WATERCOLOR EXHIBIT Central Coast Watercolor Society & Art Central presents “Splish Splash!” celebrating excellence in watermedia painting. Mondays-Sundays, 12-6 p.m. through Nov. 3 (805) 747-4200. artcentralslo.com/gallery/. Art Central, 1329 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo. VIRGINIA MACK: BEGINNING WATERCOLOR This is a watercolor class designed to let you jump in and try out this engaging medium through experimentation. It’s designed for beginners and those with watercolor experience who wish to expand their knowledge of painting in watercolors. To enroll 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.

VISIBLE MENDING WORKSHOP – LEARN

CREATIVE CLOTHING REPAIR

Join us for a hands-on visible mending workshop where you’ll learn a variety of techniques to repair and refresh your clothing in creative, sustainable ways. Sept. 27 1-3 p.m. $45. (805) 439-1022. slolifestudio.com.

SLOLife Studio & Mercantile, 1337 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo.

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

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE

PRESENTS FINE ART OIL PAINTINGS

BY JOAN BROWN Joan Brown paints

expressive landscapes and birds in oil.

Her work glows with life and light. Come experience her vision and see her work on display at the gallery, open daily. Through Sept. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE

PRESENTS FUSED GLASS BY LINDA HILL

Linda Hill creates vibrant fused glass art and jewelry using Dichroic Glass. Her work plays with light and color, and is on display at the gallery. Through Sept. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare. com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

GALLERY AT MARINA SQUARE

PRESENTS PORTRAITS AND LANDSCAPES IN OIL BY JOSE SILVA Jose Silva paints portraits and landscapes in oil, blending realism, expressionism, and impressionism. His work invites reflection. Through Sept. 29, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 7721068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

OLD DAYS

Downtown Los Alamos will come alive with music, food, and community, during the 79th annual Los Alamos Old Days, beginning on Friday, Sept. 26. The theme for the three-day event is How The West Was One, and there will be booths selling artisan handcrafted goods and a variety of refreshing food and drinks from local vendors, along with a classic car show. The festivities will wrap up on Sept. 27. Admission is free, and more details are available at lavmc.org.

JOAN BROWN, SEPTEMBER FEATURED ARTIST Award-winning artist Joan Brown is featured all month. Come to the reception to see her fine watercolors and oils on display. Through Sept. 30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (805) 772-1068. galleryatmarinasquare.com. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero suite 10, Morro Bay.

THE PLEIN AIR TEAM Acrylic artist, Nancy Lynn, and husband, watercolorist, Robert Fleming, have an ongoing show of originals and giclee prints of Morro Bay

and local birds. ongoing (805) 772-9955. Seven Sisters Gallery, 601 Embarcadero Ste. 8, Morro Bay, sevensistersgalleryca.com.

THE REBOOT SPEAKEASY PRESENTS FREE FOR ALL Season finale features a stellar line-up of local talent sharing true story gold for folks who delight in all things well told. First-come seating. Sept. 19 7-9:15 p.m. Free. facebook.com/ the.reboot4u. Red Barn at Los Osos Community Park, 2180 Palisades Ave., Los Osos.

RONÉ PRINZ & MEARA MCDONALD ART

EXHIBIT See paintings by Roné Prinz and photography by Meara McDonald. Through Sept. 25 Morro Bay Library, 625 Harbor St., Morro Bay, -(805) 772-6394.

STAINED GLASS WITH DEBORAH WOGAN

choice. Learn how to cut glass, copper foil, solder, and hang your project. All tools and materials are included.

26 Center Morro Bay, 835 Main St., Morro Bay, artcentermorrobay.org.

SMART LANDSCAPE REBATE PROGRAM

OFFERING REBATES FOR CITY OF SANTA MARIA WATER CUSTOMERS

You may be eligible to receive a rebate for:

YOUTH ART CLASSES A fun, inspiring weekly art club for kids and tweens who love to create. Led by Chenda Lor, each session offers new projects, materials, and techniques. Wednesdays, 4:30-5:45 p.m. through Oct. 1 $80 per session. Lor Coaching Studio & Gallery, 525 Harbor St., Morro Bay.

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

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

GUADALUPE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

FUNDRAISER FOR THE COSECHA

GUADALUPE FARMERS MARKET

Enjoy local produce, baked goods, and artisan vendors at our brunch fundraiser!

Support the growth of a community market celebrating fresh food and local businesses. Sept. 21 , 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Guadalupe Social Club, 945 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe, guadalupesocialclub.com.

LOS ALAMOS OLD DAYS Join the 79th

VALLEY READS BOOK CLUB September’s book is The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune. Call the Reference desk at 805-925-0994 ext. 8562 to reserve a seat. Sept. 20 2-3 p.m. Free. (805) 925-0994. cityofsantamaria.org/services/ departments/library. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria.

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY ALMA ROSA’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY HARVEST PARTY & GRAPE STOMP Join Alma Rosa for the winery’s 20th Anniversary Harvest Party and Grape Stomp, during an afternoon of fine wine, delicious tacos, and live music. Sept. 20 12-3 p.m. $30 for wine club members and $40 for guests. (805) 691-9395. almarosawinery.com. Alma Rosa Estate, 7250 Santa Rosa Road, Buellton. SOLVANG DANISH DAYS Celebrate Solvang’s Danish heritage with a weekend of authentic food, axe throwing, brickbuilding, music, dancing, three parades, free entertainment, and family experiences in Solvang village. Sept. 19 4-9 p.m., Sept. 20 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sept. 21, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Free, but with ticketed portions of weekend. (877) 327-2656. solvangdanishdays.org. Downtown Solvang, Citywide, Solvang. SQUARE DANCE AT THE GRANGE HALL An all-ages square dance, called by local Vic Ceders. Beginners are welcome! Sept. 23, 6-8 p.m. $10 adults, $5 children/teens. santaynezvalleygrange.org/calendar/. Santa Ynez Valley Grange Hall, 2374 Alamo Pintado, Los Olivos.

• Upgrading your irrigation

• Replacing your lawn

• Planting waterwise plants in your garden

Scouting Programs

Cub Scouts

The Cub Scouts are one of the BSA’s premier programs, offering citizenship, character, personal fitness, and leadership for youth in grades K to 5.

Scouts BSA

Scouts BSA is the traditional Scouting program for boys and girls aged 11-17. It focuses on developing character, citizenship, and personal fitness through various outdoor activities and leadership opportunities. Scouts BSA aims to help young people become responsible, becoming contributing members of society.

Venturing

Venturing is a youth-led program all about building adventures with your friends. Choose to do activities that matter to you and develop essential skills.

Why Scouting Matters

• Builds character, confidence, and leadership through real-life experiences

• Prepares youth for success in school, careers, and life

• Teaches responsibility, problem-solving, and teamwork

• Encourages outdoor adventure and hands-on learning

• Fosters lasting friendships and a deep respect for nature

• Inspires service, citizenship, and ethical leadership

Join the Adventure: Scouting America Open House for Families

Drop in to meet our Scouts, see what we do, and discover how Scouting builds leadership, character, and outdoor skills— all while having fun!

ORCUTT PACK 93

Boys & Girls in Kindergarten to 5th grade

Open House Meeting

Monday, Sept 29 at 6:15 pm

Calvary Chapel

2620 Santa Maria Way, Santa Maria

Contact: Carlos.Cortez@scouting.org

ORCUTT TROOP 87

Boys 11-17 years old

Open House Meeting

Wednesday, October 1 at 7:00 pm

St Andrews United Methodist Church

3945 S Bradley Rd, Santa Maria

Contact Us: ronterry4543@gmail.com

ORCUTT PACK 91

Boys & Girls in Kindergarten to 5th grade

Come build, race, and have fun at our LEGO Derby

Monday, Sept 29 at 5:45 pm

Scout Hut at Pioneer Park

1150 W. Foster Rd. Santa Maria

Contact Us: April.Litchfield@Scouting.org

ORCUTT TROOP 91

Boys 11-17 years old

Drop in to meet us!

Every Tuesday at 7:00 pm

Scout Hut at Pioneer Park

1150 W. Foster Rd. Santa Maria

Contact Us: calahane@aol.com

LOMPOC PACK 2103

Boys & Girls in Kindergarten to 5th grade

Open House

Thursday, Sept 25 at 6:00 pm

North Avenue Baptist Church

1523 W. North Ave. Lompoc

Contact Us: pack2103lompoc@gmail.com

LOMPOC TROOP 2103

Boys & Girls 11-17-years-old

Drop in to meet us!

Every Thursday at 7:00 pm

North Avenue Baptist Church

1523 W. North Ave. Lompoc

Contact Us: hinshaw@live.com

Camp Rancho Alegre

devastated by the Whittier Fire, which destroyed much of its infrastructure and temporarily halted its beloved outdoor programs. But from the ashes, a remarkable transformation began. Thanks to the unwavering support of donors, volunteers, and the community, the camp has been thoughtfully rebuilt with modern, sustainable facilities—

its capacity to serve more youth. Today, Camp Rancho Alegre stands renewed and resilient, once again welcoming students, Scouts, and outdoor learners to explore, discover, and grow

Camp Reservations At Rancho Alegre

Camp Reservations at Rancho Alegre Rancho Alegre is available to rent to host summer and weekend events. Let your team focus on program delivery and relationship food, lodging, and special activities. Dorms can accommodate up to 150 people, with tent camping in Larsen’s Meadow, along with target, swimming, and biking venues.

The Outdoor School

The Outdoor School at Rancho Alegre offers immersive 4-day, 3-night residential programs that guide 5th and 6th-grade students beyond the pages of textbooks and into the dynamic, living classroom of the natural world. Through hands-on science lessons, wildlife observation, astronomy, and team-based activities, students engage in inquiry-based learning that strength-

ens academic knowledge while building confidence, curiosity, and environmental stewardship. Our curriculum fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and a lifelong connection to nature with meaningful, real-world learning experiences that inspire both personal growth and academic success.

“Many of our students were scared of leaving home for the first time. I have seen so much emotional growth and risk-taking from all the students. The kids had a wonderful time. They will remember this forever!” Teacher, Sanchez Elementary.

• Our site includes several miles of hiking trails that meander through chaparrals, streams, and oak woodland habitats surrounded by US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and California State Land.

• Our dining hall serves three buffet-style meals each day and our guests consistently rave about our food. Our camp chef and kitchen staff are excellent at accommodating dietary allergies and restrictions

• We have four newly built dormitories, each equipped with heating, indoor bathrooms, and indoor showers. Each dorm is divided into four separate sleeping areas and can accommodate up to 32 campers. Additionally, two private sleeping quarters are reserved for teachers or adult volunteers.

Teachers’ Open House at The Outdoor School October 13th

RSVP with Amanda at (805) 967-0105

Volunteer:

• Help with events

• Join a scout troop

• At Camp Rancho Alegre

• Become a Board of Committee member

• Help recruit new scouts

Be a Friend of Scouting:

• $500 Scout Sponsor

• $1,000 Buddy System

• $2,500 Patrol Sponsor

• $5,000 Troop Sponsor

• $10,000 Eagle

• $25,000 Council

ARROYO GRANDE VALLEY HARVEST FESTIVAL

Enjoy a parade, food vendors, a Makers Market, a Diaper Derby, music, contests, bounce town, movie night, and more! Sept. 26 4-9 p.m. and Sept. 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (805) 473-5472. agharvestfestival.com. Historic Village of Arroyo Grande, Branch and Short St., Arroyo Grande.

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

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.

DONATION-BASED YOGA FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, EMTS, AND CARETAKERS Class schedule varies. Contact empoweryoga805@gmail for details and reservations. ongoing (805) 619-0989. empoweryoga805.com. Empower Yoga Studio and Community Boutique, 775 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach.

FIVE CITIES/PISMO BEACH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN (AAUW) Guest Speaker Board Chair

Colleen Martin will give an update of what is happening in the Lucia Mar School District. Sept. 20, 10 a.m.-noon Free. Five Cities/Pismo Beach American Association of University Women (AAUW), Mesa Dunes Mobile Home Park Clubhouse - 765 Mesa View Drive, Arroyo Grande, (805) 595-2526, fivecitiespismobeach-ca.aauw.net.

GIRLS IN AVIATION DAY Explore aviation and aerospace with pilots, airlines, and first responders in an interactive day of discovery focused on inspiring the next generation of flight! Sept. 20 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. (805) 781-5205. oceanoairport. com/events/. Oceano Airport L52, 561 Air Park Dr., Oceano.

INGREDIENT PROFILE FORUM Head

to this free event, covering history, etymology, import value, export value, production, crop value, processing, pricing, and recipes. RSVP via phone. Sept. 20 10:30 a.m. Free. (805) 878-7982. instagram.com/mypassionismyfood?utm_ source=ig_web_button_share_ sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.

MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

Discover your inner film critic by casting your vote for Best Film and Best Actor in the 28th Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival. Sept. 27 1:30-4:15 p.m. Free. (805) 929-3994. slolibrary.org. Nipomo Library, 918 W. Tefft, Nipomo.

MOVIE NIGHT AT THE ARROYO GRANDE

HARVEST FESTIVAL Enjoy movie night at Heritage Square Park, featuring Lilo & Stitch . The concession stand opens at 6, and the movie begins at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 6-9:30 p.m. Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/events. Heritage Square Park, 201 Nelson St., 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.

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.

MEND YOUR OWN

A Visible Mending Workshop will be held on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 1 to 3 p.m., at SLOLife Studio & Mercantile. This hands-on class will teach an array of sustainable and creative sewing techniques to repair and refresh one’s pre-loved clothing. Participants should bring a garment they wish to mend. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased at slolifestudio.com.

—A.S.

QI GONG: MINDFUL MOVEMENTS FOR LESS STRESS AND MORE ENERGY

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

15TH ANNUAL CENTRAL COAST CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE SHOW AND SWAP MEET

At this judged motorcycle show and swap meet, there will be trophies for the first two places in 10 classes. A food truck will be on site. Get more info at the link. Sept. 20, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $10. (805) 440-4511. centralcoastclassicmc.com/event/13thannual-central-coast-classic-motorcycleshow/. Arise Central Coast, 1775 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo.

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

BOOK BUDDIES Bookworms, assemble!

Woods Humane Society is welcoming animal lovers age 7-17 to join us in reading to our furry friends. Sept. 24 3:30-4:30 p.m. $5.00. (805) 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/youthprograms/. Bookworms, assemble!

Woods Humane Society is welcoming animal lovers age 7 to 17 to join us in reading to our furry friends. Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $5. (805) 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/youthprograms. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

BUILDING A BETTER SLO PRESENTS

BUILDING SMALL: BUILDING COMMUNITY, NOT COMMODITY Jim Heid will talk about new approaches on how to shape the built environment with practical methods. Jim Heid, FASLA author of Building Small, and Founder of CRAFT DnA and UrbanGreenTM shares insights into an increasingly popular approach to community development that relies on incremental, locally based development strategies. Building Small focuses on using real estate development to accomplish

three goals – more authentic places, stronger local economies and increased housing diversity. Sept. 18 5:45-7:30 p.m. $17.91. my805tix.com. The Penny, 664 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo.

BUILDING STRONG FOUNDATIONS Join this special breakfast event, including an expert panel discussion on how affordable housing gets built in San Luis Obispo County. Sept. 24 7:30-10 a.m. $25. (805) 543-5970. slochtf.org. Madonna Inn Ballroom, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo.

CAL HOPE SLO GROUPS AT TMHA Visit website for full list of weekly Zoom groups available. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays calhopeconnect.org. Transitions Mental Health Warehouse, 784 High Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 270-3346.

CARE CREW Calling all crafty, caring, petloving kids! Care Crew members will join us in filling Kongs for our canines, crafting pet toys, and creating art. Sept. 21 2-3:30 p.m. and Sept. 28 , 2-3:30 p.m. $5. (805) 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/ youth-programs/. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

DAILY QIGONG PRACTICE For the early riser or commuter, every weekday morning. Maintain or improve concentration, balance, and flexibility. Includes weekly Friday 3 p.m. class with more practices. Led by certified Awareness Through Movement teacher. Mondays-Saturdays, 6:10 a.m. and Fridays, 3 p.m. $35/week or $125/month. (646) 280-5800. margotschaal.com/qigong. Online, See website, San Luis Obispo.

DONAVAN FRANKENREITER: ROD & HAMMER RANCH WHISKEY FESTIVAL Join for the 4th Annual Rod & Hammer Ranch Day, with whiskey, music, and wild Western fun. There will be free live music, mechanical bull rides, axe throwing, smoked meats, and a local craft market. Get tickets and more info at the link. Sept. 20 12-10 p.m. $44.20. my805tix.com. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.

ELECTRIC VEHICLE EXPO Join us for our annual EV Ride & Drive and Showcase.

Test drive a variety of EVs and bikes, and talk with the owners! Sept. 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo.

ELECTRIFY YOUR LIFE RESOURCE FAIR

Learn about resources on EVs, hear real EV stories, unlock big savings, and explore opportunities to electrify your home. Sept. 23 6-8 p.m. Free. San Luis Obispo Library, 995 Palm St., San Luis Obispo.

Thursday, Sept. 18 l 7pm Jueves, 18 de Septiembre l 7pm Carpinteria Vets Memorial Building Friday, September 19 l 7pm Viernes, 19 de Septiembre l 7pm Isla Vista Elementary Saturday, September 20 l 7pm Sabado, 20 de Septiembre l 7pm Guadalupe City Hall Sunday, September 21 l 6pm Domingo, 21 de September l 6pm Marjorie Luke Theatre by Viva el Arte Four Free Performances! Cuatro actuaciones gratuitas! ¡Entrada gratuita! Free Event!

ELECTRIFY YOUR RIDE EV SHOWCASE

Discover the benefits of EV ownership!

Browse over a dozen EV models and talk with the owners. Sept. 25 6-9 p.m. Free. San Luis Obispo Farmers Market, Broad and Higuera, San Luis Obispo, (805) 541-0286.

FALL EQUINOX DRUMMING MEDITATION

/ CROW’S END SLO Gather to honor the Fall Equinox and observe the International Day of Peace in a sacred celebration of rhythm, reflection, and renewal. Join for an evening of rhythm-making, meditation, song, and storytelling as we attune to the shifting energies of the season and the universal call for unity. Tickets and details are available at the link. Sept. 19 6-9 p.m. $28.62. my805tix.com. Crows End Retreat, 6430 Squire Ct., San Luis Obispo.

FREE PET VACCINE CLINICS With the support of Petco Love, Woods is providing free vaccines for cats and dogs during vaccine clinics in August and September! Sept. 20 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. (805) 543-9316. woodshumanesociety.org/ spay-neuter/. Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo.

FUNDRAISER: GARAGE SALE Join this fundraiser benefitting SLO charities and supported by the Central Coast Women’s League (CCWL). There will be furniture, household items, art/ decor, vintage items, tools, plants, sporting goods, and jewelry. Sept. 20 8 a.m.-noon Free. (805) 5399374. Central Coast Women’s League, 1720 San Luis Drive, San Luis Obispo, none.

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.

I DIDN’T SEE IT COMING: HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST FRAUD AND SCAMS - ERIC VITALE Offered by the SLO District Attorney’s Office, this is a primer on how to recognize fraudsters, how to protect yourself against them, and how to minimize the damage done in case you are deceived. The discussion will include how to deploy damage control and things to do to minimize your exposure to various fraud trends. The SLO County District Attorney Senior Investigator Eric Vitale will explain the various organized crime groups responsible for conducting these fraud schemes and whom they are targeting and what Law Enforcement is doing to prevent and disrupt their operations. Sept. 18 , 1-3 p.m. $12. my805tix.com. Oddfellows Hall, 520 Dana Street, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-0876.

“JOYFUL RHYTHMS” DRUM CIRCLE / CHUMASH VILLAGE SLO Join for this monthly Drum Circle, a fun, unique, and uplifting social experience at the Chumash Village Clubhouse in SLO. It’s a welcoming, inclusive space for all! Social connection, emotional release, and the grounding power of rhythm as tools to nurture wellbeing from the inside out is emphasized throughout the experience. Sept. 18 3:30-5 p.m. $17.91-$28.62. my805tix.com. Chumash Village, 3057 S Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, (510) 301-1286.

MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

Discover your inner film critic by casting your vote for Best Film and Best Actor in the 28th Annual Manhattan Short Film Festival. Sept. 25, 12-3 p.m. Free. (805) 781-5994. slolibrary.org. San Luis Obispo Library Community Room, 995 Palm Street, 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.

SLO SAFE STREETS FORUM For more information, visit the 2025 Regional Road Safety Action Plan via the website. Registration is free and required. Sept. 25, 4:30-8:30 p.m. Free. slocogroadtozero.org. Ludwick Community Center, 864 Santa Rosa, San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

CAYUCOS’ 150TH BIRTHDAY

CELEBRATION !! Join us as we celebrate Cayucos’ 150th birthday during this familyfriendly event. Sept. 19, 4-9 p.m., Sept. 20, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sept. 21 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m. (805) 995-1200. cayucoschamber.com/ cayucos-150th-birthday-celebration. Cayucos Beach, The corner of D Street and Ocean Avenue, Cayucos.

FOOD & DRINK

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TAP THURSDAY Head to Tap Thursdays at the Wine Stone Inn every week, featuring $5 draft beers and $5 Cava’s. Thursdays, 3-9 p.m. through April 16 Free. (805) 3323532. Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt, winestoneinn.com/.

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

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

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

HEAD GAMES TRIVIA AND TACO

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

18 - SEPTEMBER 28, 2025

SOUTH COAST SLO COUNTY

THE MAC & CHEESE FESTIVAL Each year we have over 2,000 attendees and this year is shaping up to be one of our biggest and best yet! The event features Mac & Cheese from over 25 of the most talented chefs, restaurants and caterers on the Central Coast. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite as they compete for the best mac and cheese! Sept. 27, 2-6 p.m. $82.18. my805tix.com. Avila Beach Golf Resort, 6464 Ana Bay Rd., Avila Beach, (805) 595-4000.

SWINGING BY THE SEA Experience the grandeur of an afternoon garden party at the seaside Chapman Estate, Shell Beach, with wine and food, gorgeous shoreline views, ocean breezes, and music. Sept. 20 1-5 p.m. $150. chapmanestatefoundation.org/. Chapman Estate, Private residence, Shell Beach.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

BEDA’S BIERGARTEN AUTHENTIC OKTOBERFEST Join Beda’s authentic family friendly Oktoberfest at SLO Grange Hall for Hofbräu beers, food, fun, games, and live music by Brass Mash. Earlybird prices are available until Aug. 31. Sept. 21 , 1-6 p.m. $20 early bird; then $30. (805) 439-2729. ti.to/blueimaginarium/bedasbiergarten-oktoberfest-2025. San Luis Obispo Grange Hall, 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

LIBATIONS AT THE LIGHTHOUSE Join the annual fundraiser for the Piedras Blancas Light Station; a casual afternoon surrounded by history and natural beauty. Guests can enjoy pours of Harmony Cellars wine while wandering the grounds of beautiful Piedras Blancas and learning about the light station. Tickets are available at the link. Sept. 20, 3-5:30 p.m. $108. my805tix.com. Piedras Blancas Light Station, 15950 Cabrillo Highway, San Simeon.

MUSIC

SANTA MARIA VALLEY/LOS ALAMOS

HAPPY HOUR MUSIC SERIES Enjoy live music at the winery most Friday evenings. Check site for concert schedule. Fridays presquilewine.com. Presqu’ile Winery, 5391 Presqu’ile Dr., Santa Maria, (805) 937-8110. LADIES NIGHT OUT Music by DJ Van Gloryious and DJ Panda. Features delicious daiquiri specials. Thursdays, 8 p.m.-midnight Roscoe’s Kitchen, 229 Town Center E, Santa Maria, (805) 623-8866.

LIVE MUSIC AND FOOD BY LOBO BUTCHER SHOP Check out live music every Friday night from a variety of artists at Steller’s Cellar in Old Orcutt. Dinner served by Lobo Butcher Shop between 5 and 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 5-9 p.m. Varies according to food options. (805) 623-5129. stellerscellar.com. Steller’s Cellar, 405 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt.

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.

STEVIE NICKS ILLUSION AT COTTONWOOD CANYON Immerse yourself in a Saturday evening of music, food, and wine at Cottonwood Canyon

MUSIC continued page 20

Hot Stuff

Winery, set amidst the breathtaking amphitheater with Stevie Nicks Illusion. This evening promises an unforgettable experience, combining top-tier musical performances with delicious food, premium wines, and craft beer. Explore the beautiful grounds, savor exquisite wines, and discover new artists in this idyllic Santa Barbara Wine Country. Sept. 20, 5 p.m. $39.44. my805tix.com. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard And Winery, 3940 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria, (805) 937-8463.

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

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

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

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS

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

LOMPOC/VANDENBERG

10TH ANNUAL EQUINOX – A CONCERT IN CELEBRATION OF THE CHANGING

SEASON Don’t miss Santa Barbara Revels’ 10th Annual Equinox – A Concert in Celebration of the Changing Seasons on Sunday at Lobero Theatre. More info is available at the link. Sept. 21 3-5 p.m. $35 - $40. (805) 963-0761. lobero.org/. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido, Santa Barbara.

BRUNO AND THE HOOLIGANS (BRUNO MARS ULTIMATE TRIBUTE BAND) Rock.

It Boy presents Bruno and The Hooligans (Bruno Mars Ultimate Tribute Band) on Saturday at Lobero Theatre. Sept. 20 7:30-9:30 p.m. $58.50. (805) 963-0761. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido, Santa Barbara, lobero.org/.

DAWES (DUO) TOUR, WITH SPECIAL GUEST SAM WEBER Lobero LIVE presents Dawes (Duo) Tour, with special guest Sam Weber. Hear them live, and get tickets at the link. Sept. 25 7:30-9:30 p.m. $59 - $122. (805) 963-0761. lobero. org/. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido, Santa Barbara.

JAMES GARNER’S TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH All Over Again Productions presents James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash on Sunday at Lobero Theatre. Sept. 28 , 3-5 p.m. $48 - $68. (805) 963-0761. lobero. org/. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido, Santa Barbara.

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.

Pismo Beach Veteran’s Memorial Building, 780 Bello Street, San Luis Obispo. CENTRAL COAST HARMONY CHORUS INVITES SINGERS TO JOIN FOR HOLIDAY

PERFORMANCES Men and women are invited! No prior experience is necessary - just a love of music. Call or email for more information. Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. through Dec. 18 $20. (805) 736-7572. ccharmony.org. Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana St., Nipomo.

IN THE AIR TONIGHT CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF GENESIS & PHIL COLLINS

Experience In The Air Tonight, a powerful live tribute to Genesis and Phil Collins, packed with iconic hits, stunning vocals, and an unforgettable musical journey. Sept. 20, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $39.50-$65.50. (805) 489-9444. clarkcenter.org. Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande.

THE LEGENDS OF ROCK: A TINA

TURNER, ROD STEWART, AND ROLLING STONES TRIBUTE SHOW James Elliott

Entertainment presents The Legends of Rock, a tribute to three legends in one show! Sept. 26 7:30-10 p.m. $44.50-$55. (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.

MUSIC WITH A VIEW - OPEN GATES AT THE CHAPMAN ESTATE GARDEN Enjoy

Open Gates at the seaside Chapman Estate in Shell Beach. Bring a picnic dinner and music, tables, chairs, and views will be supplied. Docent-led garden tours are available. Fridays, 5-7:30 p.m. through Oct. 24 $5/person + $5 for Docent tours (optional). chapmanestatefoundation.org. Chapman Estate, Private residence, Shell Beach.

LUVLAB PRESENTS ~ ARDALAN Hailing from Tehran and raised between Iran and California, Ardalan is known for his eclectic taste and signature left-of-center sound. One can expect a set that fuses deep, jarring beats with lush melodies, showcasing why he’s a regular on some of the world’s top stages. Get tickets at the link. Sept. 19 8-11:45 p.m. $23.27. my805tix.com. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.

MOONSHINER COLLECTIVE - UNDER THE MOON CONCERT W/ THE SILENT COMEDY Enjoy the Under the Moon concerts, a unique series that blends the band’s love for the outdoors with a high-end live music experience, creating intimate, open-air nights that feel magical and memorable. Sept. 20, 5:30-9:30 p.m. $30. my805tix.com. Dairy Creek Golf Course, 2990 Dairy Creek Rd., San Luis Obispo, (805) 782-8060.

NATE SIB WITH SPECIAL GUEST KIMJ Hear the Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, producer, and multiinstrumentalist Nate Sib live at SLO Brew. Get tickets and more details at the link. Sept. 21 7 p.m. $29.27. slobrew.com. Rod & Hammer Rock, 855 Aerovista Pl., San Luis Obispo, (805) 543-1843.

NORTH COAST SLO COUNTY

“SHANTY-SING” AT THE MORRO BAY MARITIME MUSEUM Saturday morning

“Shanty-Sing” at the Morro Bay Maritime Museum. Learn and share maritime music. Bring a song. Learn a song. Sing along. Fourth Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.noon through Oct. 25 Free. (805) 225-6571. morrobaymaritime.org/event/shanty-sing/. Morro Bay Maritime Museum, 1154 Front St., Morro Bay.

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

SAN LUIS OBISPO

17TH ANNUAL CUESTA ACOUSTIC GUITAR CONCERT FEAT. TONY MCMANUS The Cuesta Guitar Class Program presents internationally known Celtic Guitar sensation Tony McManus, joined by Dorian Michael and Jennifer Martin. Sept. 20 7:30 p.m. $17 General, $10 Students w/ID. (805) 546-3198. Harold J. Miossi CPAC at Cuesta College, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo.

DELTAPHONIC WITH SILK OCEAN: AN EVENING OF FUNK, SOUL AND INDIE GROOVES BY WAY OF NEW ORLEANS! Hear Deltaphonic blend rock ‘n roll, with New Orleans funk, soul, and Hill Country blues. Sept. 25 7:45-10:30 p.m. $16.36. thesirenmorrobay.com. The Siren, 900 Main St., Morro Bay, (805) 225-1312.

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 2025 LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE CONCERT SERIES Head to the Point San Luis Lighthouse in Avila Beach for Saturday afternoon concerts. Get tickets and more info at the link. Through Oct. 11 $28. my805tix.com. Point San Luis Lighthouse, 1 Lighthouse Rd., Avila Beach.

ARROYO GRANDE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES These free concerts will begin on July 4 and run every Sunday until September 21. Sundays, 1-3 p.m. through Sept. 21 Free. (805) 473-5472. arroyogrande.org/events. Heritage Square Park, 201 Nelson St., Arroyo Grande.

BASIN STREET REGULARS SUNDAY JAZZ CONCERT PRESENTS ST. JOHN’S RIVERBOAT JAZZ BAND Pismo Beach Swings! Join the unforgettable Sunday of Jazz with St. Johns Riverboat Jazz Band & The Riverboat Rustlers! Sept. 28 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers. (805) 937-8402. my805tix.com.

CLOONEE, DOMBRESKY, MINDCHATTER, SHERMANOLOGY & HAUWARD LED presents Cloonee, Dombresky, Mindchatter, and more at the Spanos Stadium. This is an 18+ show. Sept. 20 5:30-10 p.m. $55. Spanos Stadium, 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo, (805) 756-0275.

THE JORGE LUIS PACHECO TRIO The SLO County Jazz Federation presents the masterful Cuban pianist Jorge Luis Pacheco in a Tribute to the Buena Vista Social Club. Pacheco is a fiery performer whose artistry has been featured at Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, and the Apollo Theater among many international venues. He will perform with his trio, including Reinier Mendoza on percussion and Geron Lazo-Quiroga on bass. Sept. 20, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $39.34. my805tix.com. Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, 1701 Fredericks Street, San Luis Obispo.

LIBERTINE PRESENTS: OUTSIDE DOG WITH RAMP Sept. 18 , 8 p.m. Free. my805tix.com. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337.

LIBERTINE PRESENTS: RAY AND PAUL WITH BIG SIERRA Hear Bay Area-based band Ray and Paul live at Libertine, with support from Big Sierra. This show is 21+. Sept. 19, 8 p.m. $17.91. Libertine Brewing Company, 1234 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, (805) 548-2337, libertinebrewing.com.

LISTENING AS RITUAL Group listening sessions with musician/musicologist Ben Gerstein. Explore remarkable recordings of world music, nature field recording, western classical and contemporary, and jazz, sharing and discussing inspiration and perspectives on the expressive power of peoples, cultures, animals and habitats through sonic experience. Every other Monday, 7-8:15 p.m. $10-$15 donation. (805) 305-1229. leftcoastartstudio.com/. Left Coast Art Studio, 1188 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos.

OPEN MIC NIGHT Each Wednesday, enjoy this Open Mic Night in the downstairs dining area. Grab some friends and show off your talents. Food and drink service will be available. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. Free. (805) 995-3883. schoonerscayucos.com. Schooners, 171 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos. SHANTY SING Bring a song. Learn a song. Sing along! The Morro Bay Shanty Project will lead this shanty sing along event. No experience is needed, and all are welcome. Fourth Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.noon through Oct. 25 Free. (805) 225-6571. m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pf bid0XU2CETCDiomAH5zp2XeQ9eswFTfFnS cXaXZSpDX31WpmXAZznYdQsZ7MuwVuMz pQl&id=100095006873277&mibextid=wwX Ifr. Morro Bay Maritime Museum, 1154 Front St., Morro Bay.

WHITE CAPS TO PERFORM AT THE MORRO BAY HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE Don’t miss the Morro Bay White Caps Community Band performing exciting pops, classical, and jazz music at the new Morro Bay High School Theatre! Sept. 20 1-3 p.m. Free. (805) 459-9543. morrobaywhitecaps.com. Morro Bay High School, 235 Atascadero Rd., Morro Bay. m

WELCOME TO THE SOUNDTRACK OF FREEDOM

MIRAGE VISIONS OF FLEETWOOD MAC

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 / 8PM

TICKETS START AT $20

HOLLYWOOD FIGHT NIGHTS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3 / 6PM

TICKETS START AT $55

A1 COMBAT MMA

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4 / 6PM

TICKETS START AT $55

JEFFERSON STARSHIP

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 / 8PM TICKETS START AT $29

ARTS BRIEFS

A bluegrass concert benefits children in emergency foster care

Join the Bullfrogg Blues Band at the Party with a Purpose concert benefiting Santa Barbara County children entering emergency foster care. The Blast Stockyard in Orcutt is hosting the event from 4 to 8 p.m. with food from Blast 825 Brewery.

Guests can expect “a soul-shaking, feel-good evening of live music, local eats, and big-hearted community spirit,” according to press materials.

The concert, hosted by Children’s Resource and Referral Discovery Museum, benefits its Heart to Home Resource Closet, giving essentials to children in emergency foster care. The closet provides items including clothing, car seats, diapers, stuffed animals, and pajamas. For teenagers the program also supplies hygiene and feminine products.

“It’s an evening where music, community, and purpose come together to make a difference,” Jacqui Banta, chief operating officer of CRR, said via email.

LA’s Bullfrogg Blues Band is known for playing classic rock songs and crowd favorites like “Johnny B. Goode,” “Hit the Road Jack,” and “Rebel Yell.”

Individual tickets and six-person tables can be purchased online at Eventbrite.

Santa Maria screens family-friendly movies in the park

Free movies are playing on two upcoming Fridays outdoors in Santa Maria, organized by the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department.

The city is showing Moana 2 on Sept. 19 and Cars on Sept. 26. Both films will be screened at Rotary Centennial Park, located at 2625 S. College Drive in Santa Maria. Viewers should bring blankets, lawn chairs, and their favorite movie snacks. The outdoor screenings start at dusk, around 7:30 p.m.

As a collaboration between the city and People for Leisure and Youth Inc., the movie series is designed to encourage community connections in a safe environment. It’s also a program that aligns with Santa Maria’s goals to create more recreation and social opportunities for community members, according to the city.

For more information about Movies in the Park and other city events, contact Recreation Services Manager Dennis Smitherman at dsmitherman@cityofsantamaria.org. m

In it together

A Nipomo author supports local businesses with the production of her debut novel

BY MADISON WHITE

Fellow authors have described Maggie Yore as a unicorn—she has a knack for numbers and words.

Though she always loved to write, it wasn’t until she became a business owner a few years ago that she got the numbers part down.

Turning pages

Buy Maggie Yore’s debut novel on Amazon, her website, or at local bookstores and Barnes & Noble. For updates on her future publications, follow her on Instagram @maggieyoreauthor.

“I had to be everything for that business,” Yore told the Sun

She owned an eco-friendly cleaning company during the pandemic, managing everything from the marketing to QuickBooks. Yore tripled revenue within two years before selling it in 2022 and getting a job in accounting. Operating the business took a lot out of her, and she became very ill.

“Mentally. Physically. Spiritually,” she said. “Running a business by yourself can destroy you.”

Throughout the turmoil of the pandemic and her illness, Yore started writing down her feelings, which was nothing new. She recently unearthed her first book, which she wrote at age 11, she said.

And now, her first published novel, When She Breaks, was released in July, stemming from some of her pandemic writings.

“I wrote a book about how I felt, and I made a story out of it,” she said. “It came from very traumatic childhood memories and also just going through therapy.”

Knowing how difficult it is to run a company, Yore felt it was important to involve local businesses, all located in Santa Maria, in the making of When She Breaks

“Being a business owner and recognizing the impact that you can have on a small community, it’s kind of your duty to take care of your community,” Yore said. “We all have to work together and lift each other up.”

The cover of her novel was painted by Pixie Thorpe Designs, formatted by Local Copies Etc., and photographed by Arrow Photo. The vivid, colorful imagery on the cover contrasts with some of the dark tones in the novel, but Yore wants to remind readers that life has precious moments.

“Seeing a beautiful sunset, seeing a gorgeous tree takes you out of your anxiety, and it takes you out of your depression,” Yore said. “It grounds you.”

The story follows protagonist Soshana who navigates self-love, trauma, panic attacks, and therapy after she moved to Michigan to care for her alcoholic mother. She also finds new friendships and falls for the right person at the wrong time. To survive, Soshana must rediscover herself.

Yore remembered her writing process as utter chaos. With no idea what she was doing, the author downloaded an audio book for guidance on how to write a novel.

“I tried to follow those steps, and I think I did a great job at it,” Yore said.

Part of her writing process also involved music. She created a Spotify playlist with some of the songs that inspired the story and connect to Soshana’s struggles, Yore said.

Her writing style is emotional, allowing readers to feel sympathy for the characters. While Soshana is fictional, there are some similarities between

Showtime!

Send gallery, stage, and cultural festivities to mwhite@santamariasun.com.

MULTIFACETED: Author Maggie Yore has worked as an accountant, a medical assistant, and a small-business owner. In her free time, she writes

and shoots film photography.

herself and the character. She’s felt some of the emotions that Soshana felt.

“I wanted whoever’s reading to know that they’re not alone in this,” Yore said. “I wanted, toward the end of the book at least, for them to feel like they’re worth loving.”

Above all, the point of the book is to show what it’s like to live with PTSD, depression, and anxiety, Yore said.

“Everything can’t be rainbows and sunshine. It has to be real,” she said.

Throughout the process, the author gained confidence in herself. She used to feel imposter syndrome because she couldn’t afford to finish college, casting self-doubt on her merit as a professional writer. But now, she’s on a roll.

Look out for two new books by Yore in the future: Run! Run! Run!, a thriller filled with female rage that she’s “having a lot of fun with,” and The Sound of Magic, an emotionally powerful memoir.

Yore is also working on a children’s book to accompany her memoir, and she’s collaborating with Pixie Thorpe again for the illustrations.

“I feel so damn proud of myself,” Yore said. m

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

Hard choices

Spike Lee (Do the Right Thing, Malcolm X, BlacKkKlansman) directs Evan Hunter’s crime thriller screenplay about music mogul David King (Denzel Washington), who’s the target of a kidnapping ransom plot. It’s a loose remake of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 Japanese film High and Low that was based on American writer Ed McBain’s 1959 novel King’s Ransom. (133 min.)

Glen: This marks the fifth collaboration between Spike Lee and Denzel Washington after Mo’ Better Blues (1990), Malcom X (1992), He Got Game (1998), and Inside Man (2006), and they’re both in fine form. Lee’s direction is spellbinding right from the opening sequence as the sun rises over Manhattan to the sounds of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’” (from Oklahoma!) and onto the thrilling chase through the streets as the ransom money is passed between scooter riders and then to King’s foot pursuit of the kidnapper Yung Felon (A$AP Rocky) and every moment in between. Washington is amazing as King, a music exec known to have “the best ears in the business” for his ability to discover and nurture hitmakers. He finds himself in a moral quandary when he discovers that his son, Trey (Aubrey Joseph), wasn’t the kidnap victim. It was Trey’s bestie and his driver and confidant Paul’s (Jeffrey Wright at his best) son, Kyle (Elijah Wright). Does David pay the

FRIENDSHIP

What’s it rated? R When? 2024

Where’s it showing? HBO Max

Written and directed by Andrew DeYoung in his feature length debut, Friendship tells the cringey story of Craig Waterman (Tim Robinson), an advertising exec whose cancersurviving wife, Tami (Kate Mara), recently took up with an ex-boyfriend, Devon (Josh Segarra), due to Craig’s emotional unavailability. Craig’s floundering at work and is friendless, but things begin looking up when a new neighbor, TV meteorologist Austin Carmichael (Paul Rudd), moves next door. After sharing a beer, Craig thinks he’s found a kindred spirit, but as the budding bromance turns into Craig’s obsessive infatuation, things turn very dark very fast. Robinson has made a career of depicting painfully awkward and desperate characters. He’s equal parts hilarious and wincingly repugnant. Rudd delivers his typical roguish nice guy, but as Craig becomes unhinged, Rudd’s Austin has to reject him with vigor. The story takes an expected but nonetheless shocking turn for the worse, and as the

$17.5 million to save Kyle? It’s downright Shakespearean.

Anna: The moral quandary is strong. When it’s his own flesh and blood, there’s no question of whether the ransom will be paid, but when the weight of his child’s safety is lifted from his shoulders, it becomes a much more complicated choice. Paying the ransom will wipe out King’s kitty, and he’ll never be able to buy back his record label without it. King not only has to face pleas from Paul to save Kyle, but also from his own son, Trey, whose best friend’s life has been given a price. In his other ear is his wife, Pam (Ilfenesh Hadera), who’s reluctant to give up their lux life in their Dumbo penthouse. King has a lot of soul to search, and we watch as he resigns himself to a decision. Washington is always great, and Highest 2 Lowest is another feather in his cap as well as Lee’s. These two know how to make a film compelling.

Glen: It’s not just Paul and Trey putting pressure on King to pay. In the Internet and social media age, there’s also public perception. King, who’s clearly beloved in the music biz, would look pretty bad letting a young man die over money, and he knows it. The music business itself has changed so much in recent years, and King also realizes he’s old guard and maybe no longer has the ears to recognize the hits. He’s a man at a crossroads. The story flies by, but the last act and the dénouement are particularly sublime as King confronts Yung Felon, who has very personal reasons for targeting King. The end itself satisfies,

film closes, DeYoung signals that Craig is more than socially inept—he might be mentally ill.

The film won’t be for everyone, but there’s something poignant about Craig’s single-minded need for connection. Male loneliness is real, and DeYoung’s debut shines a spotlight on it. (100 min.)

—Glen

and Lee proves he can remake a very good film into something even better. It’s a terrific update of a story about an impossible choice.

Anna: I loved that King ultimately realized that the kidnapper was Yung Felon by relying on his “best ears in the business” after Trey points out a track playing in the background of the kidnapper’s calls. The cast all do a great job. Jeffery Wright is such a compelling actor, and his turn as Paul is no different. This is an

UNKNOWN NUMBER: THE HIGH SCHOOL CATFISH

What’s it rated? TV-MA

When? 2025

Where’s it showing? Netflix

Lauryn and Owen were just your typical high school couple—planning for prom, texting incessantly, and hanging with their besties. Things took a turn when both teens started receiving cruel online messages and texts from an unknown cyberbully. The messages often took aim at undermining the couple’s relationship and insulting Lauryn’s looks.

The teens’ parents went on a crusade to try and track down the offender. Who would be cruel enough to doggedly harass these kids for more than 15 months? Well, it turns out truth is sometimes stranger than fiction, because by the end of this roller coaster, I was left with my jaw on the floor, swearing that what I was hearing was far too bizarre to be true.

Apple TV+ film, so it’s available streaming, but it is absolutely worth renting if you don’t have a monthly subscription to the platform. Let’s hope Washington and Lee continue this love affair—I’ll happily watch anything they put together. m

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

While it may feel like a pretty-cookie cutter true crime Netflix special, if you don’t already know the twist, it’s definitely worth the watch. Interviews with both teens, their parents, and the community around them, including law enforcement, help to tell this wild story. We even hear from the offender themselves in an ill-thought-out attempt to explain their behavior.

The Santa Maria Joint Union

High School District

Special Education - Child Find

The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) seeks to identify, locate, and evaluate high school age students suspected of having a disability who may be eligible for special education services designed to meet their educational needs at no cost to families. This includes students that are highly mobile, migrant, experiencing homelessness, students that are wards of the state, and students attending private schools located within SMJUHSD boundaries. If you suspect your child has a disability, contact the school special education department or district office Special Education Department.

Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us) El Distrito Escolar de las Escuelas

El Distrito Unificado de Escuelas Preparatorias de Santa Maria (SMJUHSD) busca identificar, localizar y evaluar a los estudiantes en edad de escuela preparatoria sospechosos de tener una discapacidad que puede ser elegible para servicios de educación especial diseñados para satisfacer sus necesidades educativas sin costo alguno para las familias. Esto incluye a los estudiantes que son altamente móviles, migrantes, sin hogar, estudiantes que están bajo la tutela del estado, y los estudiantes que asisten a escuelas privadas ubicadas dentro los limites de SMJUHSD. Si sospecha que su hijo tiene una discapacidad, comuníquese con el departamento de educación especial de la escuela u oficina de Educación Especial del distrito SMJUHSD.

Staff | Special Education | Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (smjuhsd.k12.ca.us)

Eats Decades of grapes

Bien Nacido celebrates 20 years of its estate label

BY MADISON WHITE

Nicholas Miller’s family has lived in California since right after statehood. For five generations they’ve farmed and grown grapes along the Central Coast.

In 1973, Miller’s father and uncle planted 300 acres of pinot noir and chardonnay grapes in Santa Maria, founding Bien Nacido Vineyard, according to the website.

For decades, the family focused mainly on the business-to-business side of the industry, supplying grapes to other wineries. That changed in 2005 when Miller made his family’s first vintage.

“It felt like we were kind of late to the game starting to make our own wine,” Miller told the Sun. “But here we are, two decades later. It’s hard to say that we are new to the game anymore.”

Now, Miller is the executive vice president of Miller Family Wines, which includes the Bien Nacido label.

Bien Nacido is celebrating the 20year anniversary of that estate wine

label with an event on Sept. 20 at The Gatehouse tasting room from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with live music and wine tasting. The weekend also coincides with Grenache Day, which is set to be a featured variety at the celebration.

The Gatehouse opened a couple of years ago in Santa Maria, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills. Dozens of blocks of vines are scattered across the property, next to fields of gladiolas planted by contract farmers who also use the land, helping regenerate the soil.

At the event, the winery will pour from library wines and largeformat bottles that are normally not available. The library wines are from early vintages and very little remains, Miller said.

“It’s a time, hopefully, to capture this great weather we’ve been having,

to be able to come out and be in the vineyard and see the magic of Bien Nacido,” Miller said.

The Bien Nacido label has always been about small production, dating back to when Miller started as the winemaker. During those early years, the estate wines were not sold commercially. The first vintages were only given to friends and family, Miller said, before opening sales to the public.

“We really want to be a small producer, really focused on quality, and I think that has been well received by our customers,” Miller said.

Over the past 20 years, two winemakers followed Miller, and he feels that the estate wines have gotten better every year.

for Burgundian varieties, like pinot noir and chardonnay.

“It really feels like we are, at this point, established, not just as a vineyard, … but I think it really made a name for ourselves as a winery as well,” Miller said.

One reason the wines are so dynamic is site specificity, Miller said, referring to the Bien Nacido property’s relatively small geographic area that produces diverse growing conditions. Miller Family Wines also owns the Solomon Hills Estate, west of Bien Nacido. The soil quality is poor, and grapes struggle to ripen at Solomon Hills, he said.

On the other hand, Bien Nacido’s gentle southernfacing slopes are “how you would design a vineyard”

“Here you have two different vineyards in Santa Maria that are same ownership, same farming, same winemaking, same varietals, but create such very different expressions because of that site specificity,” Miller said.

He likes that The Gatehouse enables visitors to see the sites for themselves where Bien Nacido’s grapes are grown.

“We can look out and see kind of where each of those wines come from and really planting that flag of that sense of place,” Miller said. “That’s where it’s always been important to our family.” m Reach Staff Writer Madison White at