It’s time we all took our heads out of the sand. As most of us have known for a long time, the meat industry does not stand up to the rigid standards it is supposed to, and there are loopholes in those standards. The Humane Society has been documenting abuse of laws and abuse of […]
Stand up for cattle and health
Posted inOpinion
Avoid animal fat for health reasons
The June 12 issue of the Santa Maria Sun featured an extensive article on beef production (“Here’s the beef”), including a reference to cholesterol and a claim that the American Heart Association “has determined that cholesterol is controlled by hereditary factors and genetics.” This is only part of the story and is very misleading. A […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Arts Briefs
Central Coast band takes Refuge at MotionZ Central Coast middle school band Refuge will perform from 5 to 7 p.m. on July 13 at MotionZ in Santa Maria. The band will take the stage to play originals as well as covers. Though they’re still young, the band members have been gigging since they were 10 […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Musical roots
His name may ring a bell because of his acting credits, but Efrem Zimbalist, Jr. is also accomplished at striking another note—with his musical composition. The actor’s violin sonata will be part of a benefit performance for the Santa Maria Philharmonic Society, which will also feature a violin sonata by his father, violinist Efrem Zimbalist, […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Mixed metal
When it comes to painting, Barbara Alloway can’t help herself. She likens the art to tying her shoes: It’s something that has to be done, although she admits, “Tying your shoes isn’t as much fun.” Alloway is a Central Coast abstract painter who likes to mix acrylics, metals, and foil. Her collections have been shown […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Everything must go
My house recently reached critical mass. My garage was bulging with old bicycles and broken car parts. My bedroom closet was bursting with clothes that don’t fit, are riddled with holes, and are out of style (not that they were ever actually in style). Each drawer in the house was overflowing with pens without ink, […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Serving up fish food
Walking across the planks of the pier-like entryway, diners heading into Santa Maria’s The Jetty Restaurant can imagine a restless ocean stirring just beneath their feet. Couple that sensation with an occasional sea breeze wafting in from Guadalupe, and the effect just about mirrors a ramble to a real jetty. Located on the corner of […]
Posted inNews
College moves one step closer to becoming more affordable
The interest rate on federal student loans was reduced from 6.8 to 6 percent on July 1. The rate cut is the first of four scheduled cuts that will make need-based federal student loans more affordable for students and their families. The reductions are part of the College Cost Reduction and Access Act, legislation passed […]
Posted inNews
Mechatronics Institute gears up for summer
Technology lovers listen up! Allan Hancock College is inviting high school juniors, seniors, and incoming college students to participate in a free, four-day workshop called The Mechatronics Institute, to be held July 28 through 31, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the college’s Lompoc Valley Center. Institute participants will be immersed in the world […]
Posted inNews
Chapman University will host summer info sessions
Interested in starting or finishing a college degree? Chapman University Advisors will be on hand at the university’s Santa Maria Valley campus, on July 15 and 16, to discuss the school’s history and academic programs, especially programs for adult learners. All sessions are free, and begin at 5 p.m. at the Santa Maria Valley campus, […]
Posted inNews
A Night for the Families
Imagine having a job that required attention 24 hours a day. Whether it’s 6 a.m. or 9 p.m., family caregivers for Marian Medical Center’s home care, hospice, and cancer patients are always on call. Fortunately, their numerous hours of care and patience haven’t been overlooked, and Marian Medical Center, along with Dream Dinners of Santa […]
Posted inNews
Clarification
Congressional candidate Matt Kokkonen offered a few clarifications in regard to the “Meet Matt Kokkonen” article in the Sun’s July 3 issue: “My reference to the fact that there is not a pipeline big enough to move all of the ANWR oil out over six months was a response to the criticism that ANWR oil […]