Iranian writer Vahid Imani’s graphic novel, Naji and the Mystery of the Dig, is now on display at the Book Loft in Solvang. Adapted from Imani’s chapter book of the same name, this version offers readers a uniquely interactive storytelling experience. Rather than having the words already filled in, Imani’s novel comes with blank dialogue […]
Reece Coren
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Santa Barbara Supervisors prepare for next potential pandemic
The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution to prepare for the next pandemic on May 20. In response to the 2024-25 Santa Barbara County grand jury’s March 10 report that identified a need for the county Health Department to develop a proactive approach to the next potential epidemic, board members Laura Capps, […]
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One local graduates from Righetti High School, Allan Hancock College at same time
Samantha McDonald was 13 years old when the COVID-19 pandemic took the world by storm, forcing schools across the United States to pivot from in-person to virtual learning sessions. Then a seventh grader, Samantha suddenly discovered she had a lot of free time for the first time in her young life. Most kids that age […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Mexicana Artist Helen Yanez depicts Purépecha heritage to highlight Mexican culture
Proud to represent On May 30, view Nuestra Lotería, which showcases the artwork of 220 students from Ernest Righetti and Santa Maria High Schools at the Santa Maria Fairpark from 5 to 8 p.m. For more information, visit corazondelpueblo.org/nuestra-loteria. The Fairpark is located at 937 S. Thornburg St. Helen Yanez said she was always the […]
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Lompoc starts summer with family-friendly movie nights
The city of Lompoc’s Parks and Recreation Division will host three free movies for community members throughout the summer at Ryon Memorial Park. Beginning with Moana 2 on Saturday, June 14, the Parks and Recreation Division will welcome families around 8 p.m. for a night of cinema under the stars. The division will screen Dog […]
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Fossemalle Dance Studio dancers perform An Invitation to Dance
Fossemalle Dance Studio’s Santa Ynez Valley Performing Arts Company will host its 36th season of An Invitation to Dance at the Santa Ynez Valley High School Little Theater. Under the direction of Christine Fossemalle, students will perform on June 18, 20, and 21 starting at 7 p.m. each night. Guests will be treated to three […]
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Lompoc’s Pour Decisions blends a leisurely atmosphere with zesty margaritas
Pour it up Located at 724 E. Ocean Ave., Pour Decisions encourages thirsty locals to come in and try their fresh-squeezed margaritas and signature espresso martinis. The cocktail bar shares information about upcoming events on Facebook under the name Pour Decisions or on Instagram @pourdecisionslompoc. For more information, call (805) 972-3107. It’s happy hour in […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Simple Cafe creates uncomplicated deliciousness for breakfast and lunch
Keeping it simple With locations at 3546 Skyway Drive and 1414 Miller St., Simple Cafe provides a variety of sandwiches and baked goods across Santa Maria. Both locations are open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Inquiries can be directed to (820) 946-4526 or […]
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Solvang could join growing number of California cities outlawing encampments
On May 27, Solvang City Council members will vote on whether the city will become the next domino to fall in line with California’s legislative push against unhoused people trying to live outside of shelters. Lompoc introduced public and private camping bans in March. In February, members of the Fremont City Council tried to criminalize […]
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Hellbound Bastards author Chris McGuinness shares layers of writing journey
Grab a copy Santa Maria writer Chris McGuinness’ first book, Hellbound Bastards—a vintage cosmic Western horror with classic roots—is available at amazon.com. As a preteen, Chris McGuinness began his journey down the horror path after receiving a copy of Stephen King’s Salem’s Lot for Christmas. “That was the first adult horror book I ever read,” […]
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Three Dog Night brings five-star performance to Chumash Casino Resort
American rock band Three Dog Night will perform live at the Chumash Casino Resort’s Samala Showroom Friday, May 23, at 8 p.m. Known for hits like “Joy to the World” and “Mama Told Me Not to Come,” Three Dog Night has performed more than 2,200 shows since it formed in 1967. The band has sold […]
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Future producers take today’s stage during Righetti High film festival
Ernest Righetti High School hosted its 26th annual film festival May 9. Students in attendance were treated to a karaoke performance before more than 20 short films made by ninth through 12th graders were screened on the gym stage. Film genres included comedy, horror, documentary, and drama, teacher Jacob Gustafson said in press materials. He […]
