State and federal officials announced on Dec. 18 that California homeowners, renters, and business owners who suffered damages in the November wildfires—including the Tea Fire—only have one month left to apply for disaster assistance. According to a press release from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Jan. 20 is the last day applications will be accepted […]
Deadline for federal fire aid is fast approaching
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‘Tis the season for promotions at the Santa Maria Police Department
Three Santa Maria police officers received an early Christmas present from Chief Danny Macagni. On Dec. 20, he promoted Sgt. James Ginter, Cpl. Terry Flaa, and Officer Alfredo Ruiz to new ranks. Ginter, now a lieutenant, is a 12-year veteran of the Santa Maria Police Department. He was originally hired as a lateral officer from […]
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Boxer report confirms hard economic times for California
At a press conference on Dec. 17, U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA) released a report describing the impact of the nation’s recession on California’s counties and cities. The report—based on interviews Boxer and her staff conducted with officials in 20 cities and all 58 counties—documents the economic strains felt across the state. The detailed analysis […]
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Correction
The Sun’s Dec. 11 cover story, “They know the drill,” incorrectly reported the name of co-owner Linda Devey’s business. The business’ name is Valley Fencing Inc.
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Mission Community Bank ventures into Santa Maria
On Dec. 16, Mission Community Bank opened its first branch location in Santa Barbara County. The new office is in Santa Maria at 1670 S. Broadway, and comes complete with a drive-up window and ATM. To celebrate its opening, the branch has a free checking offer and will hold a drawing for a $250 gas […]
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Local employers: Get a handle on downsizing
Downsizing may be necessary, but it isn’t easy. Get a hand in dealing with the issue during a Jan. 6 employer workshop titled “Managing a Downsized Organization.” Topics for discussion during the free, four-hour event include an employer’s role in managing the change, dealing with the “survivors,” maintaining productivity, alternatives to downsizing, and maintaining employee […]
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It’s a miracle
Morse went in for an 18-week sonogram last June, they were excited to learn the sex of their second child. “When we had [our first child] Emma, it was a lot of fun,” Hannah said. “The nurse announced, ‘Congratulations, it’s a girl!’ and showed us the feet and hands, and made a big deal out […]
Posted inFood & Drink
The season brings out sweet treats
RECIPE: Great-Aunt Susie’s Old Fashioned Prune Pie Place one 12-oz. package of pitted prunes and 1/4 cup each brandy and water in a pan and simmer until prunes plump. Remove prunes from liquid and let cool. Reserve liquid. Line a 9-inch pie pan with a regular pie crust. Cut up the cooled prunes and turn […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
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 […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
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 […]
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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. […]
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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. […]