In the midst of the sub-prime mortgage mess, it shouldn’t be a problem finding foreclosed properties to buy—not necessarily on the cheap (this is California, after all) but at least readily available, right? Not really. There are plenty of foreclosed properties out there at the moment (the technical term is REO, or “real […]
Where have all the foreclosures gone?
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Be a Christmas miracle
As the leaves fall from the trees, children are preparing to leave the classroom for Thanksgiving break, and most are bracing themselves for the coveted Macy’s parade. Toys for Tots has distributed its donation bins so that people struggling financially will have a Christmas that many Americans take for granted. Last year, the […]
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North County is showing signs of economic recovery
Though it might not look like it at first glance, the recession is over in Northern Santa Barbara County. At least that’s the diagnosis from a prominent economic forecaster, who spoke before community leaders at the Economic Conference and Business Outlook for 2010 on Nov. 17. According to Mark Schniepp, principal for the […]
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Santa Maria’s annual switch to groundwater is extended for repairs
The annual shutdown of the coastal branch of the State Water Project has been extended through Nov. 23 for routine repairs and maintenance, meaning Santa Marians will be drinking water from city wells for just a little bit longer. “A portion of the canal was inspected, and they found damage to a portion of […]
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Santa Maria city employees agree to a voluntary pay cut
Santa Maria city employees have voluntarily accepted 4 to 5 percent reductions in wages and benefits for the 2010 calendar year, according to an announcement from the city. The plan is expected to save the city approximately $600,000 through June 30, 2010—the end of the current fiscal year—and about $1.2 million throughout the 2010 […]
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Local university offers a $500 transfer scholarship
Brandman University, a fully accredited university within the Chapman University System, is offering new transfer students a $500 scholarship toward earning their bachelor’s degree. Formerly Chapman University College, Brandman University focuses on meeting the needs of working students, and offers more than 200 educational programs. The scholarship is only open to new Brandman […]
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Toys, toys, toys!
Just in time for the holiday shopping season, Santa Maria residents have a new toy store in town to help fill children’s stockings and wish lists. Toy Zoo (& Anything Educational Too) is now open next to Michael’s crafts at 1930 S. Broadway. Locally owned by Marc Canigiula, who also owns Anything Educational, the […]
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Shop for holiday crafts
The Nipomo Chamber of Commerce is getting into the spirit of the season with its annual Holiday Craft and Gift Boutique, taking place on Nov. 21. The boutique brings together more than 40 vendors in the home-based arts and crafts communities of Nipomo, Santa Maria, and the Five Cities. The big jolly man […]
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Celebrate 60 years of Diani
This year, the Santa Maria-based Diani family of companies is celebrating its 60th anniversary in the commercial, industrial, military, and public works construction business. The company is a full-service, fully integrated construction, maintenance, and service contractor, specializing in general building, pre-engineered metal buildings, design services, and environmental restoration. Founded by the late A.J. […]
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Get your pets prim and proper
Want your dog or cat to look its best for those holiday family photos? Michael’s Big Dog Pet Grooming is now open in Arroyo Grande. Owners Michael Menzie and Jainine Anderson welcome all pets to their salon, located next to J.J.’s Market at 2790 Halcyon Road, suite F. For more information, call 474-4401. […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Christmas voices
Coastal Voices will present “Christmas Favorites Old and New” at 2 p.m. on Dec. 5 and at 7 p.m. on Dec. 7. Hear carols, traditional music, and a few surprises. There will also be a sing-along. Performances will be held at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 3945 S. Bradley Road, Santa Maria. Tickets cost $10 […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Guild, meet your new juror
Local artist and teacher Nadya Brown is the juror for the Artists Guild of Santa Ynez Valley’s December juried show at Gallery Los Olivos. Ingathering will take place on Dec. 2, from 11 a.m. to noon. All submissions must be properly framed and prepared for hanging. Brown has been an Allan Hancock College member […]