Most Central Coast residents appreciate the bounty of fresh fruit, veggies, and meat that grows in our proverbial backyard. For foodies who’d like to learn more about these wonderful edibles, as well as those who simply want to celebrate the sheer abundance of choice, a group of area chefs and farmers has launched an innovative […]
Pallet to palate
Civilize society: Overhaul taxes
John McCain, in one of his recent campaign speeches, claimed that, by the end of his presidency, he will have won the war in Iraq, balanced the budget, and brought Osama bin Laden to justice. All this will have been accomplished without raising taxes. First, what we’ve had in Iraq for the last five years […]
Thanks from the Indians
As the Santa Maria Indians’ 65th season draws to a close, we would like to thank all of the Tribes’ supporters from around the county for your continued support. The Indians, as many know, are the longest-running semi-pro baseball team in California, and one of only two teams from the Golden State to win the […]
Legalize – and tax – marijuana
The so-called “War on Drugs” in regards to marijuana has failed. We spend a fortune on trying to control it, while at the same time filling our overcrowded prisons with inmates. The only thing that has resulted from all this attempt at control has made growing it very lucrative—one plant is worth $4,000. Marijuana has […]
Extend compassion to more than dogs and cats
As a veterinarian, I consider my role to be that of an advocate for all animals. As such, I was very disappointed by the article “Opposition groups say Proposition 2 is something to cluck about” (July 31). Proposition 2 is a very modest initiative to improve the welfare of those animals most of us would […]
Small cars, big speed
On a normal day at the track, there might be 40 go-karts. Last weekend, at the Santa Maria Karting Association track, there were more than 300. It was the International Karting Federation Grand Nationals, held at the Santa Maria track for the third time, and the smell of gasoline and burnt rubber filled the air. […]
Athlete of the Week
Dr. Brenda Forsythe and Kadence are quite a pair. She’s a 45-year-old veterinarian practicing in Orcutt, and he’s a 16-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding who likes to jump. Together, they’re winners, and they’ve taken home countless blue ribbons throughout the years in hunting, jumping, and dressage competitions. They’ve even taken home a few division championships. “He’s […]
Hancock adds two new coaches to the roster
Women’s volleyball and women’s soccer at Allan Hancock College are both set to get new coaches next season. Athletic Director Kim Ensing has recommended Julio Molina as the new volleyball coach and Rodrigo Garcia for women’s soccer. Molina has coached at the high school level for the past five years, most recently as the junior […]
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 […]
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. […]
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. […]
HEALTH
THE POWER OF LIVING ENERGY WELLNESS SYMPOSIUM features Robert Heiman, Dr. Erminia Guarneri, and Gary Schwartz, all speaking about wellness on Aug. 9 at the Biltmore Hotel, Santa Barbara. Info: 1-800-235-1217 or www.SAIOE.com. 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 […]

