SPECIAL EVENTS

THE ELKS CLUB presents a firefighters’ appreciation night featuring a barbecue beef dinner on Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 1309 N. Bradley Road, Santa Maria. Cost is $12. Info: 922-1538.

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY picks up Christmas trees for recycling through Jan. 8 in North County, Jan. 5 through 9 in Buellton, Guadalupe, Santa Maria, Solvang, and the rest of North County, and Jan. 5 by 7 a.m. in Lompoc. Trees should be free of stands, ornaments, and tinsel and be placed in or around green waste or trash cans. Info: 922-2121 or lessismore.org.

WORTH THE DRIVE

UCSB ARTS AND LECTURES presents Winter Cinema 2009 Jan. 7 through March 12 at UCSB. Tell No One screens on Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m. in the UCSB Campbell Hall, Santa Barbara. Cost is $6, $5 for students. Info: 893-3535 or artsandlectures.ucsb.edu.

CONCERTS

WORTH THE DRIVE

FOUR SHILLINGS SHORT performs live Celtic and folk music in concert Jan. 3 from 8 to 10:30 p.m. at Linnaea’s CafĆ©, 1110 Garden St., SLO. Info: 541-5888.

NIGHT LIFE

The following venues offer either regularly scheduled live entertainment or DJ-hosted dance music. Most performances start after 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

IN THE AREA

CLUB 805, AKA STINKY’S BAR & GRILL: 2430 South Broadway, 614-9316. DJ Davey D Saturday nights.

THE COACHMAN: 1531 S. Broadway, 922-5556. Thursday through Saturday: DJ from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday: Live entertainment from 5 to 9 p.m. No cover.

COTTONWOOD CANYON WINERY: 3940 Dominion Rd. 937-9063 Live music every first Friday of the month.

DJ’S SALOON: 724 E. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. Music Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. 736-5109.

D’VINE WINE BAR AND BISTRO: 107 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc, 735-8771.

ELMERS: 115 E. Clark. Features live music.

GARIBALDI’S RESTAURANT: 859 Guadalupe St. (Highway 1), Guadalupe. Mariachi band Friday nights. Karaoke Saturday nights. DJ Saturday nights. Info: 343-7430.

HISTORIC SANTA MARIA INN: 801 S. Broadway. Karaoke Friday and Saturday, from 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. 928-7777.

JASPERS: 114 S. “H” St., Lompoc. Karaoke Thursday from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 735-1509.

LENNIES: 321 W Ocean Ave., Lompoc. 735-8227.

LOADING DOCK/ORCUTT BREW CO.: 315 S. Broadway, Old Orcutt, 934-3471 or orcuttbrew.com. Fridays live music from 8 to 11 p.m. There is a $5 cover charge, which includes house drink. 21 and older only.

LOUIE B’S: 213 E. Main St., 925-1193. Monday, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays: Karaoke. Wednesdays: DJ.

MARETTI’S: 221 N. Broadway, 925-3622. Live entertainment Fridays from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturdays from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. DJ Sundays from 3 to 8 p.m., and Wednesdays from 8 p.m. to midnight.

MARISCO’S ENSENADA: 1127 W. Main St. 922-9095. Live mariachi music on weekends.

MAVERICK SALOON & GRILL: 510 S. Broadway, 922-9002. Live music on weekends. Karaoke Thursday nights from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

MAVERICK SALOON: 3687 Sagunto, Santa Ynez, 686-4785. Fridays and Saturdays live entertainment from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. Concert on the deck at 3 p.m. Saturdays. 1/2: Coldwater Canyon, 8:30 p.m.; DJ Dance Party, 11:30 p.m. 1/3: Concert on the Deck, 2 p.m.; Coldwater Canyon, 8:30 p.m.; DJ Totum Dance Party, 11:30 p.m.

OFFICE SALOON: 2712 Santa Maria Way, 922-2200. DJ on Fridays and Saturdays.

ROADHOUSE GRILL: 1423 S. Bradley. Info: 928-3668. A bike night is every first Thursday of the month from 6 to 9 p.m.

RADISSON HOTEL: 3455 Skyway Dr., 928-8000. Live jazz every Friday and Saturday from 7 to 11 p.m. featuring Charlie B. and Fred Atwood.

RANCHO NIPOMO DELI & BBQ: 108 Cuyama Lane, Nipomo. 925-3500.

RED FOX: 143 North H St., Lompoc, 736-9132.

SHAW’S RESTAURANT: 714 S. Broadway, 925-9226. Live music every Saturday. DJ Thursday and Friday.

SUGAR MAGNOLIA’S: 724 North H St., Lompoc, 736-2229. Open mic night every Friday from 7 to 10 p.m.

THE STEELHORSE LARIAT: 406 Bell St., Los Alamos, 344-4609. The Krazy Betty Band or Double Shot perform Saturdays or Sundays.

NORTHBOUND

Five Cities Area

BILL’S PLACE: 112 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande, 489-9989. Karaoke Friday through Saturday from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Sundays 7 to 10 p.m. Country Karaoke on Thursdays from 7 to 10 p.m. Live entertainment with Butch and Gina Tuesdays from 7 to 10 p.m.

BRANCH STREET DELI: 203 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande, 489-9099. Live music Fridays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

CLIFFS RESORT: 2757 Shell Beach Rd., Shell Beach, 773-3555. Friday through Saturday from 9 p.m. to midnight: DJ dance music.

THE CLUBHOUSE AT THIS OLD HOUSE: 740 W. Foothill Blvd., SLO, 548-8500 or clubhousereport.com. Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.: Songwriter’s Showcase. Wednesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.: Open Mic. Thursdays from 6:30 to 10 p.m.: Anthony and the Engine. 1/6: Craig Louis Dingman.

DOWNTOWN BREWING CO.: 1119 Garden St., San Luis Obispo. Regular live music. Cover charge varies.

ELMO’S NIPOMO SALOON: 131 S. Thompson, Nipomo, 929-5362. Karaoke Wednesdays from 8 p.m. until midnight.

F. MCLINTOCKS SALOON & DINING HOUSE: 750 Mattie Road, Pismo Beach, 773-1892. Thursday through Saturday during summer and spring break: live guitarist.

FIVE CITIES DANCE PAVILION: 1200 E. Grand Ave, Arroyo Grande, 474-0772 or dancepavilion.com. Dancing is every night Tuesday through Saturday. $5 cover charge.

HARRY’S NIGHT CLUB AND BEACH BAR: Cypress and Pomeroy, Pismo Beach, 773-1010. Thursdays: Front Row Karaoke. Bands and dancing nightly at 9 p.m.; 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. on weekends. 1/2: Friction Addiction. 1/3: Friction Addiction, Tempted. 1/4-5: Double Shot. 1/6-7: Garry Orr.

LINNAEA’S CAFƉ: 1110 Garden St., San Luis Obispo, 541-5888 or linnaeas.com. Shows are at 8 p.m., unless otherwise noted. 1/2: Ryan Orr. 1/3: Four Shillings Short. 1/4: Robi Duganne, Charlie Beaudoin. 1/6: Cuesta Jazz. 1/8: Fed Jazz Jam.

MR. RICK’S: 404 Front St., Avila Beach, 595-7425. Fridays: Farmers Market. Friday through Sunday: live music.

OLD VIENNA: 1527 Shell Beach Road, Shell Beach, 773-4521.

SALISBURY VINEYARDS: San Luis Obispo. “Schoolhouse Rock 2007” features live music Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.

SHORE CLIFF: 2555 Price St., Pismo Beach, 773-4671. Live music on weekends.

SLO DOWN PUB: 1200 E. Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande. 481-4067. Live local entertainment nightly. The Bluegrass Music Society of the Central Coast meets for occasional Sunday evening jams from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

A.J. SPURS: 1970 El Camino Real, Grover Beach, 489-7770. Features live music Fridays and Saturdays.

THE SEAVENTURE RESTAURANT: Pismo Beach, 773-4994.

SUNSET DUNES BAR & GRILL: 359 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, 474-8851. Tuesdays and Saturdays: Karaoke. Wednesdays: DJ.

STAGE

IMPROVISATIONAL HUMOR CLASS meets Mondays at the Loading Dock, Old Orcutt, to teach theater games, comedy concepts, and Whose Line Is It Anyway?-style games from 5 to 7 p.m. Info: 886-8355.

WORTH THE DRIVE

THE CAL POLY MULTICULTURAL CENTER presents “Another Type of Groove: Spoken Word Poetry” featuring Gina Loring on Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the Chumash Auditorium, Cal Poly, SLO. Info: 756-1405 or multicultural.calpoly.edu.

MURDER IN MIND PRODUCTIONS holds presents its production of A Dickens of a Mystery interactive dinner theatre through Jan. 25 on Sundays at 5 p.m. at the Spyglass Inn Restaurant, 2703 Spyglass Drive, Shell Beach. Info: 489-3875 or murderinmind.com.

CENTRAL COAST PLAYERS presents an evening of comedy with local comedians at 2880 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, every Saturday. The show starts at 8:30 p.m. Refreshments are available. Admission is $5 at the door. Info: 543-0639.

DANCE LESSONS

ONGOING

EVERYBODY CAN DANCE offers classes in ballet dance for ages 3 to adult. Call for schedules. Boys and men receive full scholarships. The studio is located at 800 S. Broadway. Info: 937-6753.

THE DANCE STUDIO offers dance classes in Santa Maria and Nipomo in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Acrobatics, and Dance Team. Info: 349-9016 or 931-0444.

KENNEDY CLUB FITNESS in Arroyo Grande offers swing dancing Tuesdays at 8 p.m. Classes are free for members and $5 for guests. Kennedy Club Fitness is located at 1299 James Way, Arroyo Grande. Info: 481-2888.

LINE DANCING is offered Thursdays for beginners from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Thursdays for intermediates from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 E. Park Ave. Cost is $22 for city residents; $27 for non-residents. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 260.

MUSSELL SENIOR DANCES with the Leo Juarez Combo or Jim Enos and Charlie B are the first and third Sundays from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 E. Park Ave. Cost is $5 per person, refreshments included. Info: 925-3775.

MY FIRST DANCE/BEGINNING BALLET AND TAP CLASSES teaches kids basic dance steps in ballet and tap designed to develop coordination skills. Registration is required no later than three days before the first class. Ages 3-4 meet from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Ages 5-12 meet from 4:15 to 5 p.m. Cost for the four-week session is $26, $21 for city residents. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 260.

SALSA AND SWING dance classes are Mondays for salsa and Tuesdays for swing, at 7 p.m., at The Maverick, 510 S. Broadway. All ages welcome. Info: 937-1574 or visit centralcoastswingdance.com.

SANTA MARIA FOLK DANCE CLASS teaches dances from different cultures and countries. It meets every Monday, from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Veterans Memorial Building Community Center, 313 W. Tunnell St., Santa Maria. Cost is $15, $12 for city residents. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 260.

SENIOR DANCE GROUP meets every Friday at 7 p.m. at the Madonna Inn, San Luis Obispo. Info: 489-5481 or dg17@juno.com.

SENIOR STRUTTERS teaches participants 55 years and older how to dance like professionals and routines are performed for the community. Classes meet every Thursday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Elwin Mussel Senior Center, 510 E Park Ave., Santa Maria. Cost is $22 for city residents, $27 for non-residents. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 260.

SQUARE DANCING happens on various evenings throughout Santa Maria, Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo, and Paso Robles. Cost ranges from $6 to $8. Call for dates, times, places, and new classes. Info: 541-2386 or ccsda.net.

SWING, BALLROOM, AND SALSA SOCIAL DANCE are offered by the Kings of Swing every Friday from 7 to 10 p.m. Cost is $10. Country Line Dance is every Sunday from 2 to 3 p.m. for lessons, and a social dance from 3 to 5 p.m. Cost is $5 for each. “Just Latin” social dance is the fourth Saturday of the month from 7 to 10 p.m. cost is $10. The King’s Ballroom and Dance studio is located at 2601 Skyway Dr., Santa Maria. All levels welcome. Partners encouraged but not necessary. Info: 928-7015.

YMCA OF SANTA MARIA offers Yogacize Mondays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Free to members. The YMCA is located 3400 at Skyway Dr., Santa Maria. Info: 937-8521.

KIDS & FAMILY

THE SANTA MARA RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT offers a Winter Break Day Camp Program for kids who have passed kindergarten in weekly sessions through Jan. 16 at the Minami Community Center, 600 W Enos Drive, Santa Maria. Cost is $95 per week, $65 per week for part-time camp. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 260.

THE SANTA MARIA VALLEY YMCA offers a Winter Break camp through Jan. 20 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday at the YMCA. Info: 937-8521 or smvymca.org.

ONGOING

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS is looking for volunteers to meet one or two hours a week with a young person to develop a one-to-one friendship. Orientations take place the first Wednesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. Info: 925-1100 or charlie@fsacares.org.

LA LECHE LEAGUE SANTA MARIA offers pregnant and nursing moms free breastfeeding support and information the third Wednesday of each month. Info: 734-9895 or 938-0789.

THE LITTLE VILLAGE offers a daily enrichment program for kids ages 3 to 6 during the summer and fall. Activities include arts and crafts, baking, music, gardening, and creative play. Info: 925-7515.

MUSIC TOGETHER is a music and movement program for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and the adults who love them. Classes are offered in Arroyo Grande and Santa Maria. Free demonstration classes available. Info: 264-5545 or strawberrymusic2gether.com.

MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS GROUP (MOPS) is a non-denominational group that meets for speakers, crafts, mom’s night out, and other fun activities every second and fourth Monday of the month, 6:30 p.m. at Pacific Christian Center. Santa Maria. Child care is provided. Info: 934-3491.

MOM’S CLUB OF SOUTH SLO COUNTY offers friendship support, weekly play groups, and other activities for moms and kids. Info: HYPERLINK “mailto:momsclubinfro@sbcglobal.net” momsclubinfro@sbcglobal.net, of southslomomsclub.org.

MOMS OFFERING MOMS SUPPORT offers weekly playgroups and other activities for moms and kids. The club meeting is on the fourth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. at Hunter’s Landing, 1156 E. Grand Avenue, Arroyo Grande. Info: 473-2548.

ORCUTT MOMS CLUB meets for playgroups, mom’s nights out, and other fun activities. Info: 938-0751.

SANTA MARIA M.O.M.S. CLUB is a support group for stay-at-home moms who meet for play and activity groups, mom’s night out, and park days on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 10 a.m., at Maramonte Community Park. Info: 928-0655 or 925-0351.

PERFORMANCE ATHLETICS GYMNASTICS offers a “Parents Night” every second Saturday of the month. Parents can drop their kids off from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. for pizza and gymnastic activities. The facility is located at 720 Aerovista St., Suite C, San Luis Obispo. Info: 547-1496.

THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF SANTA MARIA, 412 S. McClelland (next to lawn bowling) is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Regional habitat exhibits are interactive and multi-sensory. School tours are by appointment only. Donations accepted. Info: 614-0806 or naturalhistorysantamaria.com.

SANTA MARIA STAY AT HOME MOMS GROUP meets for weekly play groups at local parks on Thursdays at 10 a.m. Info: sahm.meetup.com/2515.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY DISCOVERY MUSEUM is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays, closed. Admission is $8 per person, kids under 2 get in free. Location is 705 S. McClelland. Info: 928-8414.

THE SANTA MARIA VALLEY RAILROAD COMPANY freight depot is located at 628 S. McClelland St. The Friends of the Santa Maria Valley Railroad hold monthly programs every second Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at the depot. Info: 922-7941.

SOLVANG PUBLIC LIBRARY holds a preschool story time at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The library is located at 1745, Mission Dr., Solvang. Info: 688-4214.

RAILWAY HISTORICAL MUSEUM offers a trip into the Santa Maria Valley’s past when railroads ruled. See miniature railroad layouts, pictures, and artifacts. Learn about railroading in the present and future. Admission is free. The museum is located in the Santa Maria Town Center. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Info: 714-4927.

ABEL MALDONADO COMMUNITY CENTER offers daily activities for kids in 7th through 12th grades. Activities include indoor sports, a computer lab, games, fitness equipment, basketball courts, movies, and more. The center is open Monday through Thursday from 2:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday through Saturday from 2:30 to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 3:30 to 7 p.m. The center is located at 600 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. Free. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 252.

COLUMBIA CHILDREN’S CENTER is located at 840 E Stowell Road, Santa Maria. The center offers preschool and child care, kindergarten readiness, potty training, and more. Info: 922-KIDS.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB of Santa Maria Valley offers an Early Bird Program for children 6-12 years of age. The program provides year-round students with the opportunity for supervised, structured programs during their off-track time from school. It runs from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Cost is $8 per day. Regular club hours during the school year are Monday through Friday from 2 to 6 p.m., and from noon until 6 p.m. during the summer. Info: 922-7763.

HANCOCK “COLLEGE FOR KIDS” CLASSES include ballet, ballet folklorico, hip-hop and jazz-funk. Info: 922-6966, Ext. 3209.

VOLUNTEERS FOR INTER-VALLEY ANIMALS (VIVA) hold pet adoptions Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Adoption Center, 133 North D St., Lompoc. Info: 735-6741.

RECREATION

ONGOING

A MEN’S AND WOMEN’S BEACH FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUE with four-on-four teams, no contact, is every Sunday at the beach in front of the Sandcastle Inn, Pismo Beach. Cost is $3 per player. Rain cancels. Registration: 489-1340.

ARK TENNIS LESSONS for third through eighth graders are Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. at St. Joseph High School. ARK Tennis camps are also available for beginning/intermediate players. Info: 934-9911.

THE PISMO NATURE CENTER offers hikes and talks throughout the week. The Pismo Nature Center is located at 555 Pier Ave., Oceano. Info: 772-2694.

CACHUMA LAKE’S Eagle Cruises are offered Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. until noon and 2-4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Cost is $15 for adults, $7 for kids. Info: 686-5050 weekdays, 686-5055 weekends. Cachuma Lake also has a Nature Walk every Saturday, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. starting at the Cachuma Lake Nature Center. Cost is free not counting the park’s $8 parking fee. Info: 688-4515 or visit cachuma.com. Cachuma also has a Junior Ranger Program where kids can learn about wildlife and caring for the environment on Saturdays from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Cost is $2 per kid. Info: cachuma.com.

CENTRAL COAST PEREGRINE PATHFINDERS is a local walking club seeking to promote walking as a non-competitive and family-oriented sport. Monthly walks are offered throughout San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties. Info: 688-4065.

THE FIVE CITIES SWIM CLUB offers summer swim lessons for 3-month-olds to adults. Registration can be made Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:15 to 5:30 p.m.; and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 3:30 p.m. A swim team meets Mondays and Wednesdays from 4 to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Physical Education classes for home-schooled children available. The Swim Club is located at 425 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande. Info: 481-6399.

SIERRA CLUB, Los Padres Chapter, Arguello Group, meets the third Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church in Lompoc on Berkeley Dr. just off S. 7th Street. Info: 736-4124.

SEDGWICK RESERVE offers hikes for the public led by trained volunteers on the second Saturday of each month. Registration is at 8:30 a.m., and the hike is at 9 a.m. Hikers should wear long pants and sturdy shoes, and bring a hat, water, sunscreen, and lunch. The reserve offers a wide variety of landscapes and habitats and is located in the Santa Ynez Valley. A $10 donation and reservations are required. Info: 686-1941 or sedgwick@lifesci.ucsb.edu.

ARROYO HONDO PRESERVE DOCENT-LED HIKES are the first Saturday and third Sunday of each month from 10 a.m. until noon in a serene setting along the Arroyo Hondo Creek and its neighboring ridge tops, near the Gaviota coast. Experience picnics and visits to the historic adobe and discovery center. Recommended tour donation is $5. Reservations required: 567-1115.

SHINJIN KARATE offers a special “Kid-Karate” program for ages 5-7. Classes meet Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:15 to 5 p.m. at 720 S. Frontage Road, No. 108, Nipomo. Samurai Sports or Chanbara Classes are for ages 8 through adult Mondays from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Karate classes for ages 8 through adult meet in the afternoon and early evenings Mondays through Thursdays. Four free introductory classes available to new students ages 5 through adult. Info: 931-0683.

THE TAILWINDS BICYCLE CLUB invites anybody to ride with them. They have a variety of different rides. For a full schedule, visit www.tailwindsbc.org.

TENNIS LESSONS are offered to ages 5 and older Thursdays and Saturdays at the Maramonte Community Center, 620 E. Sunrise Dr., Santa Maria. Various times are available. Hosted by the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department. Cost is $34.50, $28.50 for city residents. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 260.

PROFESSIONAL TENNIS TRAINER Davide will keep you in shape and improve your game while challenging you to new levels. Everyone is welcome to participate in private or group lessons at reasonable rates for beginning through advanced players. Info: 458-4008.

PERFORMANCE ATHLETICS offers all ages and levels of gymnastics, up to level 10, beginning and intermediate cheerleading classes, including competitive cheer squads, dance classes, including beginning jazz and beg combo, martial arts, and baton twirling. Center located at 720 Aerovista Place, Suite C, San Luis Obispo. Call for specific class times. Info: 547-1496.

YOGA CLASSES at the Lompoc Valley Community Center teach safe and gentle exercises to strengthen, relax, and improve alignment, flexibility, balance, and control. Classes are held Tuesdays or Thursdays, from 5:15 to 6:30 p.m., and continue every month. Fee is $30 per class. Info: 875-8100.

TAE KWON DO CLASSES are offered for ages 6 and older every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Atkinson Community Center, 1000 N. Railroad Ave., Santa Maria. Sponsored by Santa Maria Parks and Recreation Department. Cost is $44.75, $36 for city residents. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 260.

KARATE DO CLASSES teach self-defense and self-confidence and are offered Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at Minami Community Center, 600 W Enos Dr., Santa Maria. Beginners meet from 6 to 7 p.m., and advanced levels meet from 7 to 8 p.m. Open to ages 7 and older. Cost for the four-week session is $52.50, $42 for city residents. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 260.

FULL CIRCLE AIKIDO in Grover Beach offers safety, fitness, and self-esteem for ages 6 and up. Free introduction. Info: 473-9745 or fullcircleaikido.org.

SENIOR SOFTBALL for men and women ages 50 and older. Come by Hagerman Softball Complex, Mondays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. for a game of softball. Info: Wes, 928-4496 or Ruth, 925-8364.

PAUL NELSON AQUATIC CENTER offers youth water polo classes Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m. Making Waves and deep-water walking exercise classes are available Mondays and Wednesdays. The center is located at 516 South McClelland St. General admission is $2.50, and senior admission is $1.25. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 252. (For info on swim conditioning, Ext. 123. For info on water polo classes and water exercise classes, Ext. 260).

SANTA MARIA 4-WHEELERS meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Info: 928-7532.

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA offer Cub Scout Packs or Boy Scout Troops for fathers and sons in the community. Info: 925-1955 or liveoakbsa.org.

YMCA SKATE PARK offers a variety of areas for skaters of varying proficiency at the Santa Maria YMCA, 3400 Skyway Drive. The park boasts a 12-by-3 vertical pro ramp, a street course with 6- and 11-foot ramps, and more. Helmet, knee, and elbow pads are required and are available for rent. Normal park days are Mondays through Fridays from 3 to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Sundays from noon until 6 p.m. Info: 937-8521.

THE FIVE CITIES TENNIS ASSOCIATION offers many tennis related activities. Membership cost is $25. Info: fivecitiestennis.com or fivecitiestennis@pacbell.net.

SPOKE’N WORD meets twice a month for a fellowship ride through the countryside. Sponsored by CHARIS, the United Methodist Church in Nipomo, the group gathers on the first and third Saturdays of the month. Meet at the CHARIS offices at 151 W. Dana St., Nipomo. Morning prayers begin at 8 a.m., followed by a ride. Info: 929-8018.

FREE FRIDAY FLICKS features films about wildlife and discussions, plus popcorn, cookies, wine, and soft drinks, free of charge on the first Friday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at Wildling Art Museum’s administrative offices, 2948 Nojoqui St., Suite 4, Los Olivos. 1/2: Houlihan. Info: 688-1082.

NATIVE AMERICAN FLUTE CIRCLE meets the first Saturday of the month from 1 to 4 p.m. Call for location. Info: 938-0141, 598-0903, or theflutecircle.com.

NIPOMO NATIVE GARDEN works to preserve 12 acres in Nipomo as native land. The garden is located on Osage Rd. off of Camino Caballo. Monthly work day is the first Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. until noon. Volunteers welcome. Info: 929-6710 or 929-3589.

THE LOMPOC VALLEY BOTANICAL AND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY meets the third Sunday of each month September through May at the Lompoc Methodist Church, corner of W. North and N. F streets. Info: 735-3974.

THE CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY offers a variety of field trips, events, and meets in San Luis Obispo. Info: 733-3189.

ORCUTT GARDEN CLUB meets the second Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at Oak Knolls Haven Retirement Center 4845 S. Bradley Road. All interested gardeners welcome. Info: 937-1861.

THE LUFFA FARM, 1457 Willow Road, Nipomo. Open hours for the public are Wednesdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Group tours and catered luncheons are available. Info: 343-0883.

LEARNING

THE WORKFORCE RESOURCE CENTER presents a “Managing a Downsized Organization” class on Jan. 6 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Workforce Resource Center, 1410 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info: 614-1550.

WOMEN’S ECONOMIC VENTURES presents a free self-employment training orientation for its business course on Jan. 6 from 6 to 7 p.m. in Santa Maria. Info: wevonline.org or 965-6073.

THE CENTRAL COAST COUNSELING CENTER presents “Mastering the Mysteries of Love, Part 1 and 2” ongoing through January at the counseling center, 2605 S. Miller St., suite 105, Santa Maria. Info: 934-5088.

WORTH THE DRIVE

CAL POLY WOMEN AND GENDER STUDIES AND THE SLO PUBLIC LIBRARY present the first in a new lecture series: “The Politics of Virginity: Abstinence in Sex Education” on Jan. 6 at 6 p.m. in the Community Room, SLO Public Library, 995 Palm St., SLO. Info: 781-5783.

UCSB ARTS AND LECTURES presents Keith Harmon Snow and his free illustrated public lecture based on his work in Africa on Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m. in the UCSB Campbell Hall, Santa Barbara. Info: 687-3322.

ONGOING

EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS for inventors, entrepreneurs, new product developers, and creative individuals that feature expert speakers and resources meet every first Wednesday of the month from 6 to 7 p.m. for the public at the eastside branch of the Santa Barbara Public Library, 1100 E. Montecito St. Info: 879-1729.

SMALL BUSINESS START-UP WORKSHOP features successful business speakers and how-to information on starting a business every second Wednesday from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Santa Maria Town Center mall. Reservations: 925-2403, Ext. 812.

BUSINESS SKILLS OPEN LAB offers free computer classes for all levels, including classes in MS Word 2002, Power Point, Internet Explorer 6, and more. Offered by Allan Hancock College Noncredit Education and Community Programs. Santa Maria. Info: 922-6966, Ext. 3209.

NOONTIME TOASTMASTERS CLUB shows that the fear of public speaking is easily fixed while having fun. For gentle, caring, and constructive help, drop in every Thursday from noon until 1 p.m. at the Santa Maria Inn, Kent Room. Info: 478-3071.

RANCHO DE GUADALUPE HISTORICAL MUSEUM features displays of memorabilia and photographs from the early days of Guadalupe. The museum is located at 1005 Guadalupe St. and is open Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m. or by appointment. The historical jail is open the last Sunday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. Polaroid “jailbird” pictures are available for $2. The jail is at 4555 Ninth St. Info: 343-5901.

GUADALUPE CULTURAL ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER features information and exhibits on the history of Guadalupe and surrounding areas. It also features information about cultural awareness and the diverse community groups. The center offers arts, presentations, and educational classes. It is located at 1065 Guadalupe St. Hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: 343-2939.

WATERCOLOR PAINTING FOR BEGINNERS AND ADVANCED is offered by the Santa Maria Parks and Recreation Department Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 E Park Ave., Santa Maria. Cost is $57.25, $46 for city residents. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 260.

GENSPAN A.P.P.L.E. PROGRAM (Adults Providing Positive Learning Experiences) seeks volunteers to work with Santa Maria Valley area school children. Volunteers assist as mentors in classrooms and help students with reading, writing, and more. No special skills are required. Info: 614-4968.

SENIOR CONNECTION is an information, referral, and assistance program of the Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens. New classes are forming for people interested in volunteering to help senior citizens in the community. Info: 928-2552 or 1-800-510-2020.

THE PACIFIC PRIDE CENTER is seeking volunteers to help locals and their families affected by HIV/AIDS. Help is needed in the Necessities of Life Food Pantry, office support, community events, and more. Volunteers can also help in LGBT youth programs, support groups, and speaker panels. Info: 349-9947, Ext. 103.

SANTA MARIA INCLUSIVE LEARNERS (SMILe) meets every Monday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. to discuss academic enrichment, and engage in social interaction and fun. All home educators and alternative learners welcome. Info: 938-1307.

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN RED CROSS offers free disaster services classes to the public. Info: 928-0778.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY DISCOVERY MUSEUM, 705 S. McClelland, is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on Sundays. Admission is $8 per person; kids younger than 2 get in free. Info: 928-8414.

COMMUNITY CPR AND FIRST AID classes are offered by Fast Action Safety Training. Classes can be taught in schools, churches, businesses, or community centers. Classes are also offered in pet first aid and workplace safety. Spanish courses also available. Info: 929-0921.

RETIRED & SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM (R.S.V.P.) knows of a vast number of volunteer opportunities and can match just about any skill or interest you have with a community need. Info: RSVP, 922-9931.

SANTA MARIA CITY HALL TOURS are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, hosted by city staff. Call to book a tour: 925-0951, Ext. 200.

COELHO ACADEMY OF MUSIC offers a variety of music lessons including keyboard, drums, guitar, and vocal. “Worship training center” and “rock school” available. The academy is located at 325 E. Betteravia Road, Suite B-4. For scheduling, additional fees, and other information, call 925-0464.

LEARN ENGLISH with free classes at Allan Hancock College’s Santa Maria campus, Building W, Room 11, 800 S. College Dr., Monday through Thursday from 12:30 to 8:30 p.m. Info: 922-6966, Ext. 3299.

LOMPOC CITIZENS’ POLICE ACADEMY is a nonacademic informational course hosted by the Lompoc Police Department, conducted every Thursday over a 15-week period. Class size is limited to 25 students. Participants must be at least 14 years of age, have no felony arrest history, and not have been arrested for any charge within the past three years. All applicants will be screened prior to admission into the class. Pick up an application in the lobby of the Lompoc Police Department or call 736-2341.

NEW LIFE DIVORCE CARE MINISTRY offers video seminars on divorce care. Info: 937-0077. Or to find a nearby group, call 489-3254, Ext. 10.

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE conducts free tours on the base every second Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. through the public affairs office. Tours last about two hours and include a visit to the Heritage Center for a look at how the base evolved, plus space and missile artifacts. Make a tour reservation three weeks in advance by calling 606-3595.

BUELLTON SENIOR CENTER serves the Santa Ynez Valley with one-to-one computer tutoring for seniors age 55 and older. Learn at your own pace. Specialized equipment is available for low-vision and physically impaired seniors. Info: 688-4571.

GENSPAN FOUNDATION is seeking volunteers for its “Story Catchers” program. Training is free. Info: 614-4968.

VOICE-OVER WORKSHOP teaches the basics of copy interpretation, microphone technique, taking direction, and understanding the audition process. Class meets for four weeks in Oceano. Info: 489-9326.

ART

THE LOS PADRES ARTIST GUILD presents Linda Blevins leading a demonstration, “Photos to Paintings, the Process of Translation,” as part of its monthly meeting on Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. at the Luis Oasis Seniors Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. Info: 934-5835 or lindablevins.com.

THE LOMPOC MUSEUM presents the exhibit Lompoc Abstractions featuring the art of Elizabeth Monks Hack through Jan. 8 at the museum, 200 South H St., Lompoc. Info: 736-3888.

ALLAN HANCOCK COLLEGE’S Fine Arts Department presents Altered, an exhibit featuring found items made into art through Jan. 9 in the Shepard Gallery, Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. Info: 922-6966, Ext. 3465 or Ext. 3252.

THE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY ARTS COMMISSION presents “The Essential Worker,” featuring pictures by 10 area photographers, Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Feb. 13 at the Betteravia Government Center, 511 E Lakeside, Santa Maria. Info: 568-3994.

ALLAN HANCOCK COLLEGE ART CLASSES include mixed media, painting, and drawing. Open to ages 18 and up, any time throughout the semester. Info: 922-6966, Ext. 3209.

WORTH THE DRIVE

CAL POLY hosts the student chapter of the Wheelchair Foundation’s second viewing of the art show Viva el Peru, featuring photographs of the group’s trip to Peru. See it Jan. 8 through 18 in the Cal Poly Performing Arts Center, Cal Poly, SLO. The grand opening is Jan. 8 from 5 to 8 p.m. Mars Within Reach by Dr. John Keller, Marty Quinn, and NASA shows through Jan. 12 in the Robert E. Kennedy Library, Learning Commons second floor, Cal Poly, SLO. Info

: Cal Poly.

THE C GALLERY currently features a “Director’s Favorites” exhibit featuring the art of Dara Mark, Albert McCurdy, Alissa Massey, and Karina Puente through Jan. 16 at the gallery, 466 Bell St., Los Alamos. Info: 344-3807 or thecgallery.com.

THE SAN LUIS OBISPO ART CENTER presents the exhibits Cutting Edge Fiber Arts and California Contours 2008: New Turned Forms through Jan. 18 in the Gray Wing, SLO Art Center, 1010 Broad St., SLO. Info: 543-8562 or sloartcenter.org

THE GALLERY AT THE NETWORK presents the glass its Artful Holiday Gift Show through January. The gallery is located at 778 Higuera St., suite B, SLO. Info: 788-0886 or thegalleryatthenetwork.com.

THE SANTA BARBARA MUSEUM OF ART presents the exhibit Picasso on Paper: Drawings and Prints from the Permanent Collection through Feb. The exhibit Of Life and Loss: The Polish Photographs of Roman Vishniac and Jeffrey Gusky shows through March 15. The exhibition Ten: Gifts of SBMA Photofutures shows through April 5 at the museum. The museum is located at 1130 State St., Santa Barbara. Info: 963-4364.

UC SANTA BARBARA’S University Art Museum presents the art of Shana Lutker, Anna Sew Hoy, and Brenna Youngblood through March 1 in the University Art Gallery, UCSB, Santa Barbara. Info: 893-2951 or uam.ucsb.edu.

THE SALISBURY FINE ART GALLERY presents a new series of paintings by Marsha Connell called “Pond in Bloom” at the gallery, 6985 Ontario Road, Avila Beach. Info: 471-3110.

SANTA BARBARA ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW seeks new artists in Santa Barbara County to join its ranks, displaying art every Sunday along Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara. It’s the only continuous, non-juried arts festival that caters to every medium, as long as it’s original art. Info: 897-1982 or www.sbaacs.com.

CARRIED AWAY ART offers art classes throughout the week on various media, including ceramics, drawing, painting, and collage. The gallery is located at 1200 E. Grande Ave., Arroyo Grande. Info: 481-4364.

ART AFTER DARK is the art walk in San Luis Obispo featuring local and guest artists’ receptions in open galleries, demonstrations, and conversations over glasses of wine on the first Friday of every month. Find the monthly event guides at sloartscouncil.org. Info: 544-9251.

HEALTH

SMOKING CESSATION CLASSES are offered on Jan. 6, 8, 12, 14, 15, 20, 22, 26, and 29 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in Santa Maria at 2801 Santa Maria Way, suite B; 425 W Central Ave., Lompoc; 2050 Viborg Road, Santa Ynez; 915 N Milpas St., Santa Barbara; and at Cottage Hospital at Pueblos and Bath streets, Santa Barbara. Info: 346-7275 for Santa Maria and Lompoc.

ONGOING

ARTHRITIS FDN. is a low impact, sit-in-chair exercise program held every Wednesday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Valentine St. Community Room, 280 E. New Love St. Info: 346-1981.

SYCAMORE MINERAL SPRINGS HEALING ARTS INSTITUTE offers a range of classes including yoga and meditation, alternative and herbal medicine, aroma and color therapy, compassionate communications, creative play, and movement classes from dance to Pilates. Location is 1215 Avila Beach Dr., San Luis Obispo. Info: 595-7302.

CALMING THE MIND are classes taught by British Buddhist Nun Gen Kelsang Lekma every other Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Lompoc Valley Community Center, 1501 E. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. Cost is $10 per class. Info: meditationinsantabarbara.org.

MEDITATION INSTRUCTION is available Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at 841 East Boone St. Info: 934-0999.

MARIAN HOSPICE offers a grief recovery support group Tuesdays from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in the conference room at the Minami Center, 600 W. Enos, Santa Maria. Info: 739-3830

MARIAN MEDICAL CENTER offers many community support groups, classes, and lectures including Cancer Support Groups, Cardiac Risk Profile Screening and Counseling, Prenatal Preparation, Grief-Recovery Group, Exercise for Arthritis patients, Free Blood Pressure and Blood Glucose Screening, Ostomy Support Group, Caregiver Support Group, Mended Hearts Support Group, stroke and Brain Injury Support Group, Depression Screening, Nutritional Instruction, Services for the Spanish Speaking Community, Stroke Support Group, and Diabetes Support Groups. Info: 739-6300 or visit Marian Medical Center.

MARIAN RESIDENCE is in need of lifeline service monitors to help those in need of emergency assistance or volunteers to help out with anything they can. Info: 922-7731.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at Marian Medical Center to help with Hospice programs in Santa Maria, Lompoc, Solvang, Nipomo, and Five-Cities areas. Info: 739-3830. Volunteers are also needed at the Marian Medical Center Auxiliary. Info: 739-3520.

FREE LOW-VISION CLASSES with the Braille Institute teaches participants how to remain independent despite loss of vision every Monday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Santa Maria Terrace, 1405 E. Main St., Santa Maria. Info: 682-6222.

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS at Marian Health & Wellness Center, 1406 E. Main St., are available Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 5 to 6 p.m. Info: 739-3250.

HOMEOPATHY for anyone interested in homeopathy. Info: 489-5481.

COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA PUBLIC HEALTH CLINIC in Santa Maria, 2115 S. Centerpointe Pkwy., offers a variety of services and programs. Well Baby, Child, Teen, Healthy Families and Gateway examinations are available through the well-child program. No cost for low-income eligible families; programs available. Info: 346-8414. Clinics for confidential sexually transmitted disease exams are held every Thursday morning and cost $20, which includes the examination, medication, and a one-month follow-up visit. Info: 346-8410. Free, anonymous HIV testing is Wednesday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. and Thursday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. No appointment needed. For family planning, birth control, and PACT services, call 346-7336.

SANTA MARIA WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTER offer women’s health services for women of low-income, Medi-cal or on a sliding scale. Free pregnancy testing is Mondays through Fridays, from 8 to 11 a.m. and from 1 to 4 p.m. Appointments preferred, but not required. Donations accepted. Info and appointments: 739-8710.

PUBLIC HEALTH IMMUNIZATION CLINICS are offered Wednesdays from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. and Fridays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The clinic is at 2115 S. Centerpointe Pkwy., Santa Maria. Info: 346-8410. A Lompoc clinic offers the clinics the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month, from 1 to 3 p.m. The Lompoc clinic is at 301 North R St. Info: 737-6454.

FREE PREGNANCY TESTING is offered by Community Health Center weekdays, from 9 to 11 a.m. and from 2 to 4 p.m., 2801 Santa Maria Way, Suite A. No appointment necessary. All tests are confidential. Referral and pregnancy resources are available. Info: 938-9200.

FAMILY SERVICE AGENCY offers a Community Resources/HelpLine. This is a free, confidential 24-hour information and referral, crisis hotline, and telephone counseling service. Info: 928-5818.

NORTH COUNTY RAPE CRISIS AND CHILD PROTECTION CENTER is conducting intakes for a closed support group in Lompoc and Santa Maria for survivors of sexual assault or childhood molestation. Info: 736-8535.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED with the North County Rape Crisis and Child Protection Center to offer information and support for its 24-hour hotline, fundraising, educational programs and self-defense classes. Two yearly training sessions are held in the fall and spring. Info about classes: 922-2994 or 736-8535.

SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM of San Luis Obispo County is accepting applications for volunteers. Needed: drivers to deliver meals, people to help prepare and bag food, and help with clean up. Positions are available at nine locations from Paso Robles to Nipomo. Most sites are open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Info: 541-3312.

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE AND BLOOD GLUCOSE SCREENING are Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon at the Guadalupe Senior Center, 4545 Tenth St., Guadalupe. Info: Ms. Szumski, 739-3622.

PACIFIC PRIDE FOUNDATION/AIDS PROJECT CENTRAL COAST offers support groups for HIV-positive people. HIV testing and needle exchanges are every Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. Located at 819 W Church St., Santa Maria. Info: 349-9947.

THE WOMEN’S SHELTER PROGRAM of San Luis Obispo offers a free weekly support group for women dealing with substance abuse and domestic violence issues Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Registration is suggested. Free child care is available. Info: 473-6507. The program is seeking volunteers to work in crisis intervention, and as child mentors. Training is provided. Info: 781-6401, Ext. 202.

AMERICAN RED CROSS offers health and safety courses such as first aid, CPR, and other health and safety training. For a detailed list of courses or to register, call the American Red Cross Santa Maria Valley District office at 928-0778.

COMMUNITY PARTNERS IN CARING, located at 608 E. Main St., offers many services free of charge, including information and referrals, transportation, interpreting, respite care, shopping and errands, friendly visits, light housekeeping, and telephone reassurance calls. They are also looking for volunteers to perform these services. For more information call: 925-8000, 737-1976, partnersincaring.org.

TALK & LISTEN offers confidential emotional support and teaches people how to get rid of fears, anger, and depression. Call: 489-5481.

FINAL EXIT OR COMPASSION & CHOICES is always ready to answer questions. Info: 489-5481.

CALIFORNIA ANIMAL AND REFERRAL EMERGENCY HOSPITAL provides free pet loss grief counseling to the public the first and third Tuesday of month from 6:30 to 7 p.m. at Anioc University, 801 Garden St., Santa Barbara. Info: 899-CARE, 961-2528, aniocsb.edu.

THE CROHN’S AND COLITIS FOUNDATION SUPPORT GROUP OF AMERICA has a support group that meets the second Wednesday of each month (except in June, August, and December) at Marian Medical Center Clinic, 116 S. Palisades, in classroom B on the first floor, Santa Maria. Everyone is welcome. Info: 922-6133.

SANTA MARIA LUPUS AND RHEUMATIC DISEASES GROUP offers regular meetings, support, information, and fellowship. Group meetings are on every fourth Tuesday of the month (not December) from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Knollwood Village Mobile Home Park Clubhouse, 4012 South Bradley. Info: 346-2484 or smlupus@gmail.com.

ALZHEIMERS CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP meets with a certified counselor as facilitator on the third Thursday of each month, 7 p.m., at Merrill Gardens, 1220 Sway Rd. Free. Info: 928-2662.

FIBROMYALGIA AND ARTHRITIS SUPPORT GROUP meets the third Saturday of every month (except in December) from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Arroyo Grande Hospital Annex classroom, 345 Halcyon Rd., Arroyo Grande. Info: 602-2153.

BETTER BREATHERS CLUB, sponsored by the American Lung Association of California, meets monthly and is open to all adults with chronic respiratory disease and their families. The club meets at 1 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at Marian Health and Wellness Center, 1406 E Main St. Info: 928-3233.

WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY SUPPORT GROUPS for pre-ops, post-ops, and interested patients are held monthly by Central Coast Life Savers. Groups meet the second Monday, 6:30 p.m., at the Rabobank in Orcutt; and the third Saturday, 12:30 p.m., at Arroyo Grande Hospital. Info: 934-0659.

COMPULSIVE EATERS ANONYMOUS/H.O.W. meets at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church Mondays at noon, Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m., and Fridays at 6:30 p.m. They also meet in Cambria at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Head Start Office, 1920 Main St. And in Arroyo Grande on Saturdays at 4 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 275 N. Halcyon Road. Info: 546-1178. Phone meeting: ceahow.org or 938-0664.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS, a nonprofit group for those seeking recovery from overeating and other eating disorders meets every Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church, 624 East Camino Colegio, Santa Maria. Info: 937-1499. Please leave a message.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR TOTAL JOINT REPLACMENT OR ROTATOR CUFF REPAIR SURGERY classes are offered by the Santa Maria Valley Physical Therapy Group. Call for times. The Santa Maria Physical Therapy group is located at 820 E. Enos Dr. Info: 928-8257.

THE ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION offers an exercise program for those with arthritis Mondays and Wednesdays at 9 a.m. at Santa Maria Terrace, 1405 East Main St., Santa Maria. Info: 925-8713; Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. at the Nipomo Senior Center, 200 E. Dana, Nipomo. Info: 929-1615; and Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. at the Luis Oasis Senior Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. Info: 937-9750. An Aquatic Exercise Program is offered Mondays and Wednesdays at noon and Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8 a.m. at the Santa Maria Physical Therapy Group, 820 E. Enos. Info: 928-8257.

BARBECUES

ONGOING

FILIPINO COMMUNITY OF SANTA MARIA VALLEY barbecues Filipino food at the Smart and Final parking lot, N. Broadway on Saturdays and Sundays. Menu items include tri-tip, chicken, beef kabobs, chicken adobo, salad, rice, and bread. Meals cost $6. Info: 922-3422 or 922-3799.

FILIPINO CATHOLIC SOCIETY, under the direction of St. Mary’s Church and St. John Neumanns’ Church, holds a barbecue every third Saturday of the month, weather permitting, in the Walgreen’s parking lot, 707 N. Broadway, Santa Maria. A $6 dinner includes chicken or tri-tip, beans, salad, and bread.

FARMERS MARKETS

SANTA MARIA

100 S. Broadway at Main, Wednesdays, from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Features local beekeepers’ honey and bee pollen, breads and pastries, plants and flower bouquets, fresh fruits and vegetables.

ORCUTT

Corner of Clark and Bradley, Tuesdays, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fresh honey, flowers, and eggs, along with fresh fruits and vegetables. Vegetables and flowers grown at Growing Grounds Farm II are for sale, Thursdays, from 1 to 5 p.m., 812 W. Foster Rd. Info: 928-4509.

NIPOMO

671 W. Tefft St., Sundays, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Local farmers, flower vendors, potted herbs, home-baked breads and weekly barbecue. Info: 929-1583

LOMPOC

South H and Cypress, Fridays, from 2 to 7 p.m. Food, entertainment and activities for the whole family.

ARROYO GRANDE

Old Port Fisheries: corner of Brisco and Grande Ave., Arroyo Grande. Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m. Fresh fish, smoked fish, salads. Info: 541-3474.

SHELL BEACH

The Shell Beach Farmers Market features fresh food, jewelry, massage therapy, and live music Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dinosaur Caves Park, Avila Beach. Info: shellbeachfarmersmarket@yahoo.com.

SPIRITUAL

BAHA’I interfaith worship services are the second Sunday of each month. Info: 489-4172. Children’s classes are the first Saturday of each month. Info: 937-9451. Study circles about The Life of the Spirit are ongoing in Santa Maria. For questions, dates, and times: 614-0963. Info: 937-9451.

BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH holds worship services Sundays with Holy Communion at 8:30 and 11 a.m. Adult Bible classes and Children’s Sunday School (K-6) are at 10 a.m. The church is located at 624 E. Camino Colegio, Santa Maria. The sermon on Jan. 4 is “Ten New Year’s Resolutions from God.” Info: 922-6601.

BIBLE STUDY FELLOWSHIP INTERNATIONAL holds Bible studies for women and children ages 6-17 Mondays at 6:55 p.m. at Oak Park Christian Church, 386 Oak Park Blvd., Grover Beach. Info: 474-6585.

BUDDHIST MEDITATION and dharma teachings are available on Sundays from 10 a.m. to noon and Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at the BodhiPath Buddhist Center, 3484 Gregory Court, San Luis Obispo. Park on Johnson St. Info: bodhipath-west.org/slo.htm, 594-1388 or 938-7980.

CALVARY CHAPEL junior high and high school youth group meets Wednesdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. The College and Career class, ages 18 to 30, meets Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. Regular Sunday services at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. The church is located at 2620 Santa Maria Way. Info: 922-1822.

CENTRAL COAST RESCUE MISSION is always interested in community volunteers to help with the serving of meals in Santa Maria. The Rescue Mission is located at 1207 N McClelland St. Info: 614-0220.

CHURCH OF CHRIST welcomes all to Sunday Bible classes at 9:30 a.m. Worship begins at 10:30 a.m., with child care provided. Evening worship is at 6 p.m. Wednesdays, family meal time is 6 p.m. Bible classes for all ages are at 7 p.m. Individual Bible study is also available. The church is located at 795 E. Foster Road, Santa Maria. Info: fosterroadchurch.org or 937-3845.

COAST HILLS BAPTIST CHURCH meets Sundays at 9:45 for Bible classes, 10:45 a.m. for morning services, and evening services at 6 p.m. It also meets Wednesdays at 7 p.m. for Adult, and Teen, Bible Studies, and a Kids Bible Club. The church is located at 650 Rice Ranch Road. Info: 937-7291.

COAST VALLEY WORSHIP CENTER meets for Sunday worship at 10 a.m. with Pastor Craig Hamlin. Wednesday night Bible study begins at 7 p.m. The church meets at 2320 Thompson Way, Santa Maria. Info: 925-2244.

THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST regular worship services and Sunday school are at 10:30 and adult Bible study at 9:15 a.m. on Sundays and Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Also, bargain prices for students on used furniture, kitchen supplies, electronics, small appliances, bedding, linens, etc. The UCC is located at 11245 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo. Info: 544-1373.

CLARITY HYPNOTHERAPY offers spiritual discovery through past life investigation and inner self-discovery at 127 West Clark, #213. Info: 264-7753.

CRUCIFIED LIFE CHURCH has Sunday services from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Meetings covering healing, teaching, and growth meet Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 6:30 p.m. Recovery counseling, group, and a Christian school available. The church is located at 109 W. Fesler, Santa Maria. Info: Pastor Victor, 937-3109.

ECKANKAR RELIGION OF THE LIGHT AND SOUND OF GOD meets the fourth Sunday of every month at 11 a.m. at the Meadow Park Building, 2333 Meadow St, San Luis Obispo. Info: 782-4068.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH is located at 2970 Santa Maria Way, Santa Maria. Sunday School is at 9:30 a.m. Morning Service begins at 10:45 a.m. and Evening Service is at 6 p.m. AWANA Program meets at 6:45 p.m. Wednesdays. Bible Study is at 7 p.m. Nursery care is provided for all services. Info: 937-8405.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF NIPOMO is located at 112 Orchard Ave., Nipomo, home of Dayspring Preschool. Bible studies meet at 9:45 a.m. Sundays. Worship services are 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sundays, and 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Info: 929-4422.

FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH is located at 1550 S. College Drive. Regular services include a youth group for junior and high school students, called X-Service, that meets from 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Sunday. Regular service is 9, 10:15, 11:27 a.m. Sundays. Kids in 1st-6th grade are invited to Wednesday Night Live every Wednesday, featuring music, games, and more. The Special Friends Ministry offers spiritual classes for kids with disabilities and special needs. Info: 922-8479.

FIRST CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE meets Sundays for worship at 10:30 a.m. Youth fellowship, for junior and high school, meets Tuesdays at 6 p.m. for games, worship, and Bible study. Family night and “Caravans” is Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Sunday school at 9 a.m. on Sundays, and is available for all ages, coffee and fellowship is at 10 a.m. The church is at 1026 E. Sierra Madre Ave. in Santa Maria. Info: 922-1919.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH has contemporary worship service Sundays at 8:45 a.m. and traditional worship at 10:30 a.m. Nursery care provided all morning for infants 3 and below, Sunday school for other youth. The church is located at 311 South Broadway at Cook. Info: 925-9573.

GLORIA DEI LUTHERAN CHURCH offers a traditional service at 8:45 a.m. Sundays. Sunday School and Fellowship are at 10:05 a.m. A contemporary service is offered at 11 a.m. Sundays. Choir practice is Thursday at 7:15 p.m. Confirmation is 7:10 p.m. Wednesdays. Fellowship follows. Sunday School begins at 10:05 a.m. The church is located at 4380 Orcutt Road, Santa Maria. Info: 937-3905.

GOOD GRIEF is for those who’ve lost a spouse, and meets Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. at the Luis Oasis Senior Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. Info: 937-9750.

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH invites you to visit its new church campus at College and McCoy streets. You may choose between a contemporary service at 9 a.m. and a traditional service at 10:40 a.m. Sundays. There is also an evening service at 6 p.m. Child care available at all services. Info: 925-2671 or gracebap.net.

GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH is located at 423 East Fesler St. in Santa Maria. Contemporary worship is 8 a.m. Sundays (9:30 a.m. is traditional worship, 11:30 a.m. is Bible study). Info: 925-3818.

THE GUADALUPE BUDDHIST CHURCH holds a Bingo event every first and third Sunday of the month from 1 to 4 p.m. at the church, 1072 Olivera St., Guadalupe. Info: 714-6410.

LIFE WAY FELLOWSHIP meets at 2627 Skyway Dr., Suite A, Santa Maria. Bible study begins at 9:30 a.m. Worship Service begins at 11 a.m. Preschool care is available for kids 5 and younger. Info: 925-7875.

THE LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN CENTER meets Sundays for worship with Pastor Mark Parke at 10 a.m., children’s and youth ministries and adult Bible study meets Wednesdays at 6 p.m. at 726 W Tefft, Nipomo. Info: 929-4475.

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR offers Monday school, a fun way to learn about God, from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Also, your child is invited to sing with “God’s Kids,” ages 4 through 2nd grade levels, and “Kingdom Singers,” 3rd-7th grades, on Mondays, from 5:15 to 6 p.m. Regular services are 8:15 and 10:45 a.m. Sundays. Free child care. The church is located at 4725 Bradley Road. Info: 937-1116.

NEW BEGINNINGS COMMUNITY CHURCH meets Sunday morning at 9 and 10:30 a.m. for music and a message at Dana Elementary School, 920 W. Tefft St., Nipomo. All ages welcome. Child care is provided. Info: 929-6780; e-mail-mark@nbccn.org; or visit nbccn.org.

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH is located at 990 James Way, Pismo Beach. Worship is Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. A Country gospel service is every First Friday of the month. Info: 489-3254.

NEW SPRINGS is a community of home churches. If you would like more information on where to go to get involved in one near you or how to begin a home church, visit www.newsprings.net or call 550-4668.

ORCUTT CHRISTIAN CHURCH worship, communion, and children’s church begins at 10:15 a.m. Sunday, Bible school at 9 a.m. Various Bible studies meet 7 p.m. Monday, 6 p.m. Tuesday, 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesday. Babysitting and nursery services are provided. The church is located at 204 Patterson Road. Info: 937-1641.

ORCUTT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH offers Heritage Worship Service at 8:30 a.m., Christian Education Hour for all ages at 9:45 a.m., and Celebration Worship Service at 11 a.m. Nursery care available. Jr. High Youth meet Sunday at 7 p.m., High School Youth meet Wednesday at 7 p.m. The church is located at 993 Patterson Road, just one block off Bradley. Info: 937-4974.

ORTHODOX CHURCH OF THE ANNUNCIATION offers the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom every Sunday at 10 a.m. The church is located on S. Bradley Road, between Lakeview Road and Francine Way, two blocks south of Santa Maria Way. Info: 934-0338.

PACIFIC CHRISTIAN CENTER morning worship services are Sundays at 9 and 10:30 a.m. Pastor Rick Bloom delivers the morning message. Family night is every Wednesday at 6:45 p.m., which includes activities for boys and girls (ages 3-12) and youth (grades 7-12). Christian education classes also are available for all ages. Nursery care is provided for those up to 4 years of age in all services. The Pacific Christian Center is an Assembly of God church and is located at 3435 Santa Maria Way. Santa Maria. Info: 934-3491.

PATHWAYS COMMUNITY CHURCH presents a dynamic speaker Sundays at 11 a.m. at the Minerva Club, 127 West Boone St. A meditation group meets Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Info: 922-4324.

REDEEMING GRACE CHURCH is a family church with services Sundays at 11 a.m. Bible studies are Thursdays at 7 p.m. Santa Maria. Info: 934-4962.

SANTA MARIA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH offers a morning service Sundays at 10 a.m. at the church, 200 W. Cook. Santa Maria. Wednesday night features bible study at 6:30 p.m. Nursery care is available. Info: 614-4779.

SANTA MARIA HEALING ROOMS offer prayers to people in need of physical or emotional healing without pressure. No appointment is needed. Free. Healing rooms are at 200 S. East Ave. and are open Mondays and Wednesdays from 6-9 p.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Info: healingroomssmv.com or 922-1015.

ST. ANDREW UNITED METHODIST CHURCH worship times are Sundays at 8:30 a.m. and 10:20 a.m. The church is located at 3945 S. Bradley Road. Santa Maria. Info: 937-2470.

ST. JOHN NEUMANN CHURCH is located at 966 W. Orchard St. Santa Maria. Vigil services are at 7 p.m. in Spanish. Sunday Mass is 7:15 a.m. in English, 8:30 a.m. in Spanish, 10:30 a.m. in English, noon in Spanish, 2 p.m. in Spanish, 5:30 p.m. in English, and 7 p.m. in Spanish. Weekday Masses are 8 a.m. Monday through Saturday. A Spanish prayer group meets Tuesdays at 7 p.m. A Spanish Youth Group is Fridays at 7 p.m. in the Parish Hall. CCD classes are Saturday through Thursday at 4 p.m. Info: 922-7099.

ST. LOUIS DE MONTFORT is located at 5075 Harp Road, next to the Albertson’s Center. Santa Maria. Vigil service is Saturday at 5:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. in Spanish. Mass is Sunday 7:30, 9:30, 11:30 a.m., and 6 p.m. A Christian fellowship group designed to reacquaint people with the Church meets Mondays through Feb. 11. Info: 937-4555.

ST. PETER’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH has Sunday services at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Also offers Sunday school and nursery. Wednesday services are at 10 a.m. Church is located at 402 S. Lincoln, Santa Maria. Info: 922-3575.

SET FREE holds a Bible study group every Tuesday night, at 7 p.m. at the Recovery Point Meeting Room, 731 S. Lincoln. Santa Maria. Services are Sundays at 11 a.m. Men’s and women’s support groups meet Mondays at 7 p.m. Info: 896-4047.

SHEKINAH GLORY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP regular worship times are 10 a.m. on Sundays, 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, and are led by Dave and Peggy Jacob. Teens-N-Triumph is Wednesdays, 7 p.m. The church is located at 837 Knudsen Way, Santa Maria. Info: 925-5845.

STAR OF BETHLEHEM LUTHERAN CHURCH, 4465 S. Blosser Road, Orcutt. Worship is Sundays at 10 a.m. with Sunday school at 9 a.m. Info: 937-0339.

THE UNITY CHAPEL OF LIGHT offers 9 a.m., 10 a.m., and 11 a.m. services on Sundays at the corner of Stubblefield and South Bradley in Orcutt. The church also offers credit classes on Wednesdays, 7 p.m., and Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to noon. Additional courses are available in home, with 12-Step, Reiki, Yoga, and Healing Prayer. Opportunities abound for vocalists and instrumentalists through varied musical programs. Info: 937-3025.

HOPE COMMUNITY CHURCH offers Contemporary Worship Service Sundays at 9:30 a.m. at Edwards Cinemas, 1521 S. Bradley Road, Santa Maria, in theater 5 for adults and theater 4 for youth. Life groups meet throughout the week. Info: hccsm.org or 922-2043.

WHITE HERON SANGHA, a non-lineage Buddhist community, meets Sundays, 6 p.m., at the Unity Church, 1490 Southwood Dr., San Luis Obispo, for group meditation and dharma talks. Info: 595-7760 or whiteheronsangha.org.

CLUBS & MEETINGS

4-H welcomes anyone interested in the group to sign up now. Find a nearby club by contacting the Santa Barbara County 4-H Office at 692-1730 or zmhughes@ucdavis.edu.

ALTRUSA INTERNATIONAL, INC. of SANTA MARIA, a nonprofit business and professional organization, meets the second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m., in the Altrusa Theatre of the Santa Maria Library, 421 S. McClelland, Santa Maria. Info: 352-0026 or 937-4071.

ALTRUSA INTERNATIONAL INC. OF THE CENTRAL COAST meets at noon the second and fourth Monday of every month at the Santa Maria Inn. Reservations required. Info: 928-2020 or 925-7430.

ASOCIACION CULTURAL LATINO AMERICANA is dedicated to promoting Latin American arts and culture while sponsoring scholarships for Hispanic students on the Central Coast. The group meets at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of every month. Tango classes are the third Saturday of each month at the Dance Studio, S. Broadway. Info: 922-3145.

BIKE NIGHT presented by the Santa Maria Harley-Davidson and Thorsen Motorsports is the first Thursday of each month from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Info: 928-3668 of santamariaharley.com.

BUSINESS ENRICHED NETWORK (BEN) meets every first and third Wednesday of the month at 8 a.m. at the American Title building, corner of Miller and Betteravia, Santa Maria. Info: 352-1100 or BenIsHere.com.

BLIND GERMAN MECHANICS is a Sherlock Holmes enthusiast society that meets the second Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m., at Starbucks, 501 Five Cities Drive, Pismo Beach Shopping Center. Bring a copy of The Complete Sherlock Holmes. Info: 489-6777.

BOOTS-N-CHUTES ALL AIRBORNE ASSOCIATION offers no charge military funerals for honorably discharged veterans, scholarships for high school students, and color guards for civic events. The association meets every first Saturday of the month at the Veterans Memorial building, 100 E. Locust, Lompoc. Cost is $10 a year. Info: 925-2939 or 733-3659.

CALIFORNIA CONGRESS OF REPUBLICANS is a moderate Republican group that meets the first Friday of every month for a luncheon beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Santa Maria Terrace, 1405 E Main St., Santa Maria. Reservations required. Info: 922-2893 or 937-4165.

CAMPING LOVE OF ADVENTURE is a nonprofit camping group that hosts monthly events including camping, potlucks, campfires, and various outings. Widows, widowers, divorced, unmarried, and individuals with a chronically incapacitated spouse are welcome. Yearly dues are $10. Info: 937-3268 or twobirds2@verizon.net.

CENTRAL COAST CACTUS AND SUCCULENT SOCIETY meets every second Sunday of the month, 2 p.m. at the San Luis Obispo Public Library, 995 Palm St., San Luis Obispo. Each meeting features a speaker, a plant exchange, and a plant raffle. Info: 773-6644.

CENTRAL COAST CATHOLIC NETWORK is where single (divorce, widowed, never married) people meet for social activities including hiking, dining, dancing, bowling, or fellowship. Info: 878-4464.

CENTRAL COAST COMPUTER CLUB meets every third Tuesday of the month at Knollwood Village Clubhouse, 4012 S. Bradley, Orcutt. Systems “SIG” meets at 5:45 p.m., with the business meeting at 7 p.m. Visitors are welcome. Info: 937-6938.

CENTRAL COAST HUNTING RETRIEVER CLUB meets the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Petco, 271 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo. Info: 720-2185, cchrc.com.

CENTRAL COAST LITERACY COUNCIL always needs volunteer tutors to teach English to adults. Info: 922-9200, cclcread@verizon.net.

CENTRAL COAST PUREBRED PIT BULL CLUB is a nonprofit organization that meets every second Saturday of the month. The group promotes outreach, education, and participation with the breed. Info: 268-3243.

CENTRAL COAST WEAVERS’ GUILD meets the second Thursday of every month at 9:30 a.m., and the last Saturday of the month at members’ homes. Info: 481-3357 or 929-4639.

CENTRAL COAST WOMEN’S NETWORK, a directory of women in business, meets every other month featuring a keynote speaker. Info: 275-4354 or ccwnetwork.com.

CENTRAL CITY CHORDSMEN invite all men and boys interested in singing four-part harmony to their practices Tuesdays from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, Patterson and Bradley, Orcutt. Info: 937-4919.

CHCCC, INC., Community Health Centers of the Central Coast, is a group that aims to enhance the physical, mental, and social well-being of all people in the area through a network of Central Coast community health centers. Board meetings are the fourth Tuesday of every month, 7 p.m., at the Nipomo Community Medical Center. Info: 931-2512.

THE CIVIL AIR PATROL holds meetings Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at the Santa Maria Airport. The Civil Air Patrol needs volunteer cadets ages 12-18, pilots, educators, and EMS Personnel to provide emergency services, aerospace education, and cadet programs. Info: 478-2438.

COASTAL VALLEY ORCHID SOCIETY meets the third Tuesday of every month, 7 p.m., at the Grossman Gallery in the Lompoc Public Library. Meetings include guest speakers, orchid exhibits by members and more. Info: 736-3020, philip.rietz@verizon.net, or coastalvalleyorchidsociety.com.

CODEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS FRIDAY NIGHT SHARING GROUP meets every Friday, at 7:30 p.m. in the United Way Building, 1660 S. Broadway. Santa Maria. Info: 934-5228.

COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS Central Coast Chapter is a non-sectarian group offering friendship and understanding to bereaved parents, grandparents, and siblings every third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Church of Christ, 795 E. Foster Rd. Info: 922-5222.

COMPUTERROOTERS is a senior computer educational group that meets the first Thursday of the month at the Ramona Garden Park Center, 993 Ramona St., Grover Beach. Info: 489-6230, elisehenderson@charter.net.

COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES (CASA) trains and supervises volunteers who mentor and advocate for a child in the court system. Info: 739-9102.

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS is a support group for people living with a compulsive gambler that meets Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Unity Chapel of Light, 1165 Stubblefield Road, Santa Maria. Info: gam-anon.org or 268-1116.

DEBTORS ANONYMOUS is a 12-step program for people whose debts or spending problems are causing troubles in their lives or the lives of others. It meets every Monday (except holidays), 6:30 p.m., at the First United Methodist Church, 275 North Halcyon Road, Arroyo Grande. Info: 927-1018.

DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF SANTA MARIA VALLEY meets the third Thursday or each month at IHOP, 202 Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria. A no-host social is at 5:30 p.m. Reservations are required for optional dinner at 6 p.m. The Democratic Headquarters is at 327 E. Plaza and is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Info: 349-2708.

DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS, Chapter 82, can be reached at 345-0402. Meets the first Wednesday of the month September through May.

THE EL CAMINO ART ASSOCIATION meets the fourth Monday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Ramona Garden Park, 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach. Info: 627-0256.

THE SANTA MARIA EAA, Chapter 499, meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Cessna Pilots Association/Avionics West hangar, 3940 Mitchell Road, Santa Maria Airport. Info: HYPERLINK “mailto:eaachapter499@yahoo.com” eaachapter499@yahoo.com.

FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN FROM CHINA’S Central Coast chapter has monthly play dates and cultural celebrations. Info: 927-2232.

FIGHTING BACK SANTA MARIA VALLEY holds regular “Educate to Communicate” events for kids and parents. Topics include alcohol and drugs, importance of education, understanding what it takes to keep your child in school, peer pressure, gangs, and guidelines for discipline/parent and child boundaries. Info: 346-1774.

FIVE CITIES CRIBBAGE CLUB meets every Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. at IHOP in Santa Maria, Hwy. 101 and Main Street. Info: 739-0875.

THE FIVE CITIES WOMEN’S NETWORK is designed to promote personal and professional development of its members. Meetings are the second Tuesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the Mission Inn of Pismo Beach, 601 James Way, Pismo Beach. Cost is $19. Info: fivecitieswomensnetwork.com or 458-1910.

THE FRIENDSHIP CLUB OF SANTA MARIA VALLEY holds monthly luncheons at local restaurants. Women may participate in weekly activities. Info: 937-7606.

GAY AND LESBIAN RESOURCE CENTER and the Pacific Pride Foundation host a discussion group for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or questioning youth between the ages of 15 and 23. Come join in the support and fun with your peers. Directions and other info: 349-9947.

GERONTOLOGY STUDY GROUP hosts a luncheon meeting every fourth Friday of the month at Santa Maria Terrace, 1405 E. Main St. Santa Maria. Info: 925-8000.

HIV+ MEN’S PEER GROUP meets at the Pacific Pride Foundation, 819 West Church St. Santa Maria. Info: 349-9947.

INTERNATIONAL GERANIUM SOCIETY, California Central Coast Branch, meets the third Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Black Lake Community Center, 489 Colonial Place, Nipomo. Info: 937-9983.

KIWANIS CLUB OF SANTA MARIA meets every Thursday at noon at the Minerva Club, corner of Boone and Lincoln. Santa Maria. Info: 922-0856.

KIWANIS CLUB OF SANTA MARIA VALLEY meets every second and fourth Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Garibaldi’s Restaurant, Town Center West, Santa Maria. Info: 886-8355 or 260-5180.

KIWANIS CLUB OF ORCUTT meets at 7 a.m. every Wednesday at Hometown Buffet, 1431 S. Bradley, Santa Maria. Info: 937-5924.

KJG GAMES GROUPS regularly host officially sanctioned PokƩmon Trading Card Game League every Monday, from 3 to 5 p.m., 5 to 7 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m.; Mordheim and officially sanctioned Magic the Gathering Arena Outpost League every Tuesday, from 6 to 9 p.m.; Warhammer 40,000 every Wednesday from 6 to 9 p.m.; Advanced Dungeons and Dragons, MLB Showdown 2000, Mage Knight, and Warmaster every Thursday, from 6 to 9 p.m. Warhammer Fantasy and officially sanctioned Magic the Gathering Tournaments every Friday, from 6 to 9 p.m. All meetings take place at KJG Games Group at 317 Town Center West. Santa Maria. Call for additional meeting times or other info: 614-GAME.

THE LOS PADRES ARTIST GUILD holds its regular meetings every second Friday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Luis Oasis Senior Center, 420 Soares, Old Orcutt. Info: 934-5835.

LOMPOC VALLEY ART ASSOCIATION gathers for their monthly meeting the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at the Alpha Clubhouse, 704 E Ocean Ave., Lompoc. Info: 737-1129.

LUNCHTIME PRESENTATIONS on issues important to San Luis Obispo County are held every third Friday, at noon at the First Presbyterian Church of San Luis Obispo. Invite friends and bring a lunch. Coffee and juice provided. Info: 528-7025.

MASONIC SOJOURNERS and any free and accepted Masons are welcome to meet for free doughnuts and coffee every Wednesday at 9 a.m., 700 Lakeview Dr. Enjoy good fellowship and good humor. Info: 937-7446.

MINERVA CLUB OF SANTA MARIA meets every Tuesday. The first and third Tuesdays are general membership meetings. The second Tuesdays are bridge sections. Fourth Tuesdays are home and garden or book sections. Fifth Tuesdays are benefit bridge games, and are open to the public. Reservations are required.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WATCH AND CLOCK COLLECTORS meets the second Sunday of every month at the Central Coast Senior Center Hall, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano. Mart begins at 12:30 p.m. If you have an old clock or watch and would like help identifying or valuing it, they can help. Info: 528-3100.

NATIVE AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL ASSOCIATION meets to discuss traditional and current Native American ideals and concepts with the goal of expanding self-evolution. Info: 473-3837 or nativeconcepts.us.

NEWCOMERS CLUB OF SANTA MARIA VALLEY meets through the month for luncheons, potlucks, coffee, card games, and special interest groups. Info: 349-8976.

NIPOMO ARTS COMMISSION meets the every first Wednesday, 5:30 p.m., at the Nipomo Library. Everyone who supports the arts is welcome to join. Info: 723-1306.

NIPOMO CHAMBER NETWORK BREAKFAST CLUB meets every Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at the Black Lake Golf Course Restaurant, 1490 Golf Course Lane, Nipomo. Info: 929-1583.

THE OASIS GENERAL GRIEVERS SUPPORT GROUP meets Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Luis Oasis Senior Center, 420 Soares Ave., Old Orcutt. Info: 937-9750.

OPTIMIST CLUB focuses on bringing out the best in kids in our community every first Tuesday and third Thursday at the Edwards Community Center, 809 N. Fremont St., Santa Maria. All meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. Community is welcome. Info: 922-8502 or optimist.org.

ORCUTT LIONS CLUB meets the first and third Wednesday, 7 p.m., at 126 S. Broadway, Old Orcutt. The last Friday of the month is a Country and Bluegrass Jam Session at 7 p.m. Info: 937-6195.

ORCUTT HISTORICAL SOCIETY hosts a speaker series featuring multimedia presentations and Orcutt area history the third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon at the Luis Oasis Senior Center, 420 Soares St., Orcutt. Public welcome. Free. Info: 934-5169.

ORCUTT MINERAL SOCIETY provides many activities to those interested in all facets of earth sciences. The club meets every second Tuesday, 7 p.m., at Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 E Park Ave., Santa Maria. Info: 929-3788.

PACIFIC CHRISTIAN CENTER 20-SOMETHINGS, a college group, meets Mondays from 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. at Craig and Joy’s house. Info: 925-0366. Junior high and high school youth group meets Wednesdays, 6:45-8 p.m., at the church, 3455 Santa Maria Way. Giveaways, skits, games, worship, and youth band. Info: 934-3491.

PAINT CLUB, for any media, meets every Wednesday, at 9-11 a.m. at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center to paint and socialize. Fifty cents per day. Info: 925-4293 or 925-0951.

PFLAG (Parents, Friends/Families of Gays and Lesbians) holds regular meetings the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Unity Chapel of Light, 1165 Stubblefield Road, Santa Maria. Info: 937-6710.

QUOTA INTERNATIONAL OF SANTA MARIA is involved in raising money for the deaf and hearing impaired. Find out more at lunches on the first and second Tuesday of each month, at noon to 1 p.m., and the fourth Tuesday of every month, at 6-7 p.m., at Giavanni’s Pizza, 1108 E. Clark Ave. Info: 928-5222.

RETIRED ACTIVE MEN (RAMS) of Santa Maria meet the fourth Tuesday of every month for fun and fellowship. All retired men 54 or older and retired from active employment are welcome. Meetings take place at 8:30 a.m. Maria Del Sol, 4105 East Main St., Santa Maria. Info: 934-4394.

ROTARY CLUB OF SANTA MARIA meets at 12:10 p.m. every Tuesday at the Historic Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway. Info: 922-6657.

SAFE AND SOBER SUPPORT GROUP is hosted by the Women’s Shelter Program of San Luis Obispo County. It is scheduled for Wednesdays at 3:30-5 p.m. in San Luis Obispo. Info: 473-6507.

THE SAN LUIS OBISPO ASTROLOGERS holds regular astrology workshops and meetings every first and third Tuesday of the month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Coast National Bank Community Room, 500 Marsh St., SLO. Info: 546-3420 or sloastrologers@aol.com.

SANTA LUCIA ROCKHOUNDS meet the third Thursday of every month, 7 p.m., at Centennial Park, 600 Nickerson Dr., Paso Robles. Visitors are welcome. Info: 464-0528.

SANTA MARIA A’S Model A Ford Club meets every second Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Edwards Community Center, 809 Panther Drive. Info: 922-3151.

SANTA MARIA ASSOCIATION OF FAMILY CHILD CARE PROVIDERS meets the third Monday of every month, 6:30 p.m. at the Workforce Resource Center in the Sutter Room, 1410 S. Broadway. Providers meet for upcoming events in the community, training, support and updated information on licensing regulations and state legislation. Info: 937-0390 or 937-0675.

SANTA MARIA CAMERA CLUB meets the first and third Wednesday of each month in the second floor Activity Theater at Merrill Gardens Retirement Center, 1350 N. Suey Road at 7:30 p.m. The first Wednesday of the month offers a wide variety of subjects ranging from film composition and cameras to special presentations of slide shows. The third Wednesday is a competition, which includes black and white prints, color prints and slides, judged by outside professionals. Info: 937-1240.

SANTA MARIA COIN CLUB holds its monthly meeting every third Wednesday, 7 p.m., at Oak Knolls Haven, 4845 S. Bradley Rd., N. Orcutt, for free appraisals. Info: 937-1008.

SANTA MARIA HUMAN RESOURCES ASSOCIATION holds professional development meetings on the Fourth Wednesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Santa Maria Inn. Info/RSVP: meetings@smhra.net.

SANTA MARIA LAWN BOWLING CLUB assembles at 9:30 a.m. to start games at 10 a.m. on the green on McClelland across from the library. Closed Mondays and Thursdays. Lessons given by appointment. Info: 349-9838.

SANTA MARIA MEN’S CLUB (formerly Newcomers club) meets at Santa Maria Terrace, 1405 East Main St. every second Tuesday of the month for breakfast and a guest speaker. Starts at 8:30 a.m. Info: 348-1179 or 937-1499.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY LIONS CLUB meets every first and third Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., at the IHOP Restaurant, 202 N. Nicholson. Santa Maria.

THE SANTA MARIA VALLEY REPUBLICANS headquarters are located at 307 Boone St., Santa Maria. Info: 937-0043 or 937-6706. Info: 928-2955.

SANTA MARIA NOONTIMERS LIONS CLUB meets at 12:10 p.m. for lunch every Wednesday at Baker’s Square Restaurant, 1841 S. Broadway. Santa Maria. Info: 927-6103.

SANTA MARIA ORCHID SOCIETY meets at 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at the Veterans’ Memorial Center, 313 W. Tunnell Street. Santa Maria.

SANTA MARIA RECREATION AND PARKS COMMISSION meets every second Tuesday of the month in council chambers at Santa Maria City Hall.

SANTA MARIA SENIOR TRAVEL CLUB offers three-, four-, and one-day trips, plus cruises and international travel to club members. All seniors over 50 are welcome. Cost is $10 yearly, including a monthly bulletin of activities. Travel office is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, at 12:30-3:45 p.m. Info: 349-0688.

SANTA MARIA SUNRISE LIONS BREAKFAST CLUB meets every first and third Wednesday, 7:15 a.m., at Baker’s Square Restaurant, 1841 S. Broadway. Info: 934-3881.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY BEAUTIFUL meets for lunch the second Thursday of every month at noon at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites, 2100 N. Broadway. General info: 928-6463.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY CITIZENS FOR SAFE DRINKING WATER meets the first and third Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., at Lassen’s, 1790 S. Broadway. It is a health/environmental volunteer group working for a ballot measure to stop industrial waste substances, including industrial waste fluoride, from being added to water.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS meets regularly around Santa Maria. Info: 739-1909.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY QUILT GUILD meets the second Wednesday of every month, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Methodist Church, 3945 Bradley Road, Orcutt. Info: 937-7342.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY SINGLES CLUB invites friendly men and women ages 50 and older to go to events and to make new friends. Club meetings are on the first Tuesday of every month, 6:30 p.m., at the Union Plaza Social Room, 120 N. Broadway. Info: 925-4740.

SANTA MARIA VALLEY SPORTSMAN’S ASSOCIATION meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Atkinson Community Center, 1000 N. Railroad Ave. All outdoor enthusiasts are welcome. Info: 934-2340.

SANTA MARIA WOMEN’S NETWORK is designed to promote the professional and personal development of its members. Meetings are at 11:30 a.m. the first Wednesday of every month in the Kent Room of the Santa Maria Inn. Info: 929-7489 or womens-network.com.

SENIOR BALLROOM DANCE CLUB is for singles and couples interested in fun dancing Friday at 7 p.m. in the Madonna Inn’s main ballroom, SLO. Info: 489-5481 or dg17@juno.com.

SENIOR SINGLES CLUB meets for monthly social luncheons and dinners with an equal number of men and women. Also, subgroups of varied interests including cards, travel, and singing. Info: 544-4347 or 481-1793.

SENIOR TRAVEL CLUB offers outings for “working seniors,” aged 50 years and up. See the Melodrama, have a Swing Time, or take a Mystery Trip. For a list of available trips: 925-0951, Ext. 207.

SISTERS IN CRIME is an organization of mystery and suspense writers. It meets every second Saturday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at Borders Books and Music, 243 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo. Info: 528-7155.

SLO BYTES, a PC users group dedicated to educating its members in the use of personal computers, meets at 12:45 p.m. the first Sunday of every month at the Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo. Featured speaker on Dec. 7 is Alan Raul. Info: slobytes.org.

SLO WOMEN’S NETWORK meets the third Wednesday of every month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo. Reservations must be made the Friday before the luncheon. Meetings offer a chance to meet other women and make business contacts. Info: 546-3727.

SOCIETY OF VEGETARIAN INCLINED PEOPLE (SoVIP) holds a monthly potluck meeting the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Unity Chapel of Light, 1165 Stubblefield Road, Orcutt. Info: 343-0437.

SOUTH COUNTY DEMOCRATIC CLUB meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at CJ’s Restaurant, 611 Grand Ave. Arroyo Grande. Come at 6 p.m. to order dinner. Info: 481-6765.

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL AGING educational support group meets the first and third Wednesday of the month, at 7 p.m. in Grover Beach. Info and reservations: 929-5652.

SUNSHINE SENIORS meet the second Wednesday of every month at 11:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s Hall. All those over 50 years of age are welcome. Info: 934-3896.

SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL welcomes all to experience the excitement of four-part harmony (called Tri-City Sound Chorus) at their rehearsals every Thursday from 6:45 to 9:30 p.m. in the Stahnke hall at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 4725 S. Bradley Road, Orcutt. Women who love to sing welcome. Info: 736-7572.

TOPS (TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY) meets Wednesdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m., weigh-in between 8:30 and 9:45 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 200 W. Cook, Santa Maria. Info: 929-8506.

TRAVEL CONNECTIONS AND SOCIAL CLUB hosts a monthly dinner the second Friday of each month starting at 6 p.m. at Finn’s Restaurant, Grand Ave., Grover Beach. Info: 781-2630 or itravelconsultants.com.

VALLEY OF THE FLOWERS, HALF CENTURY CLUB offers Bingo at 12:30 p.m. Sundays and Mondays, and at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Line dancing is offered three nights a week with a night dance at 7 p.m. Thursday. Craft classes are also offered. PACE (People with Arthritis Can Exercise) groups meet every Tuesday morning. Door fee is $7 for non-members, but give the name of a board member and get in for $5. The club is located at 341 North N St., Lompoc. Info: 736-6669.

VANDENBERG AMATEUR ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY meets the second Friday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Endeavour Center near Vandenberg AFB. Meetings are open to the public. Info: 736-9442 or members.aol.com/vaastronomy.

VANDENBERG LIONS CLUB meets the second and fourth Thursday of every month at noon at the Village Coffee Stop, Vandenberg Village. Info: 733-3249.

WRITERS SUPPORT GROUP invites all levels of writers to discuss the marketing aspects of writing (not critiquing) with Santa Maria author Donald Smith on the second Tuesday of every month at CafƩ Monet, 1555 S. Broadway. Info: 928-1774.

50 PLUS CLUB meets at 11:30 a.m. the second Thursday of every month at St. Louis de Montfort Parish Hall, 5095 Harp Rd. Open potluck lunch and opportunities to enjoy spirituality, community, and social programs. Info: 937-3119. āˆ†

This article appears in Jan 1-8, 2009.

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