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 […]
Boxer report confirms hard economic times for California
Posted inNews
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.
Posted inNews
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 […]
Posted inNews
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 […]
Posted inNews
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 […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
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. […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
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. […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
HEALTH
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 […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
ART
DAVID RYAN GALLERY closes its doors at the end of December, and celebrates its seven years of offering fine art from all over the globe with most items 30 to 50 percent off. The gallery is located at 205 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt. Info: 937-1058 or davidryangallery.com. MARILYN DOVER BENSON exhibits her paintings through December […]