As news broke of the horrendous and terrifying Equifax hack, which has exposed the private information of more than 143 million people, I was struck by one persistent and nagging thought: Those hackers are in for a helluva surprise when they try to do anything with my crappy financial history. Here’s my financial picture: I’m […]
REBECCA ROSE
Chef’s table dinner at The Bear and Star in Los Olivos was an inviting and exciting experience
Well, lucky me! The restaurant has been open for months, I’ve written a lot about their sustainability practices—and now I finally had a chance to have a big, filling meal at The Bear and Star in Los Olivos. By now, you’ve probably heard the story of how the venue makes sustainability and local sourcing a […]
Nipomo hosts art walk
The Nipomo Chamber of Commerce invites the public for an evening of art and community during the Olde Towne Nipomo Art Walk. The event, which starts at 5 p.m., will feature live painting demonstrations, discussions, viewings, and arts and crafts vendors. Nipomo’s Old Town Brew will also serve beer and wine. Participants can start at […]
Santa Maria Arts Council urges public participation in City Council meeting
The Santa Maria City Council will vote on the Santa Maria Arts Master Plan and a public art funding ordinance on Oct. 3, and the Santa Maria Arts Council is asking for the public to show up and share their opinions. “We ask you to step forward and speak on behalf of this ordinance that […]
Local artist creates public mural at Orcutt barbershop
A barbershop in Orcutt is home to a brand new public mural, thanks to a local artist and community activist. Ruben Espinoza gets fired up talking about the importance of public art. He devotes much of his time and work as an artist to the cause, which he said is an important tool for community […]
Where’s the beef? Central Coast chefs, hell-bent on sustainability and community sourcing, have a tough time getting their hands on local beef
As she swings around a tight curve in her John Deere Gator, rancher Katie Parker-McDonald’s eye is keenly trained on the horizon, trying to spot one of her elusive cattle. By now, she could probably drive this route blindfolded; these are the same narrow dirt paths she’s navigated since she was a child. As we […]
Ciao, bella! Pizzeria Bello Forno is a welcome addition to Orcutt
At Bello Forno in the bright lights and with laughter coming from inside, it feels as refreshing as the crisp night air. Summer is winding down, but there’s still a touch of mild heat as people make their way into the new eatery. I instantly feel some kind of connection. The decor, the furniture, the […]
Elverhøj Museum presents the Living History Festival
Solvang’s history and cultural roots are featured as part of the Living History Festival happening Sept. 16 through 17 at the Elverhøj Museum. Artisans, storytellers, and craftspeople will demonstrate their skills and entertain visitors. The free event is held in conjunction with the town’s Danish Days festival. “There will be hands-on activities for all ages […]
Connie Rohde announces retirement
The C Gallery’s longtime director and curator, Connie Rohde (pictured), announced her plans to retire from the Los Alamos contemporary art gallery on Sept. 1. “As of Sept. 30, I will have stepped away, as in ‘Elvis has left the building,’” Rohde wrote in an email. “It is my greatest hope that the arts will […]
Lompoc taking applications for annual Christmas parade
The city of Lompoc is accepting applications to participate in the annual Lompoc Valley Children’s Christmas Season Parade. This year’s parade theme is “Winter Wonderland.” The Lompoc Valley Children’s Christmas Season Parade is scheduled for Dec 1. Entrants voted to have the best display of lights will win the Best of Lights category, which comes […]
CORE Winery in Orcutt hosts poetry reading
“My mother turned the masa on the wooden board/one ancestral world after another spilling from her hands./This mound of flour, leavening, water, lard,/and a pinch of salt became the full moon of our history.” The words of Carla Riedel’s poem, “A Fig Is Like a Tortilla Is Like a Raven,” are filled with poignant images, […]
I need a nap
Last week, Mavis Wanczyk became the winner of the second biggest prize in Powerball history. I don’t know who she is, but I’m ready to declare my undying love for her and pledge my total allegiance as her friend and possible receiver of designer gifts. People always ask me what I would do with that […]

