Fifth District voters face an important decision June 2 as three candidates compete to succeed the departing Steve Lavagnino on the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors. First, Cory Bantilan, for the past 16 years chief of staff for Supervisor Lavagnino. Quietly competent and skilled in the operations of county government, Mr. Bantilan has set […]
Santa Maria
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Everyone’s welcome to a family dance in Santa Maria
Gather the whole family for some two-stepping and disco moves at the Japanese Community Center on March 28. The theme for this year’s dance is Under the Sea. “Families are invited to dance, play, and connect at this ocean-themed, family-friendly rave,” according to the city. “Enjoy high-energy music, interactive fun, and dazzling lights in a […]
Posted inFood & Drink
The Culture food trailer wants to give you the best smashburger you’ve ever eaten
During the busiest shifts at his food trailer, Willie Galvan can crank out a smashburger in 10 or 11 minutes. When there’s no line, he can do it in five. “The buns take longer to toast than the burgers,” the Santa Maria native said. After an order comes in, he toasts the buns and heats […]
Posted inNews
New affordable senior housing is coming to Santa Maria
The city of Santa Maria is one step closer to breaking ground on 85 new senior housing units at the corner of Broadway and Stowell Road. A new three-story building will sustain 54 units, and an additional 31 will be added to the existing Vandenberg Senior Residence property. Apartments will be available for people 55 […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Discovery beckons all ages and experience levels to the Old Orcutt Yarnery
Lisa Long learned how to knit at a Del Taco 15 years ago. At that point in her life, her routine was a long cycle of working, cooking dinner, studying for her degree, and falling asleep in the early hours of the morning. She needed to reactivate her creative brain. “I called a friend of […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Santa Barbara County opens free public art workshop series
In March the county launched Make It: Building a Public Art Practice to help artists of all experience levels plan community-based projects. They’ll receive guidance about all the practical questions that arise when creating public art. The Santa Barbara County Office of Arts and Culture, an umbrella for creative programs within the county, is offering […]
Posted inNews
Santa Maria agendizes hearing to discuss forming immigration ad hoc committee
For local high school student Lorena Martinez, real-time events have shown that the Santa Maria City Council’s pace in deciding whether to form an immigration ad hoc committee is too slow. “Real families are being torn apart. Children are living with fear and uncertainty. Parents are afraid to go to work. This is happening here […]
Posted inOpinion
Multiple perspectives on issues surrounding immigration can be valid
In a statement I wrote on the recent events in Minneapolis, I said the tragic shooting deaths of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother, and Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, were gut-wrenching tragedies. I also said the investigations into both should be allowed to conclude before judgement is cast, and I expressed concern that inaccurate and […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Lompoc photographer captures all of life’s special moments
The Central Coast is darn close to a photographer’s dream setting, so scouting locations is one of the most fun parts of the job for Amanda Booker. “I just love this area. There’s so much to offer,” she said. “Basically anything a client envisions, you can find here.” Book BookerAmanda Booker takes photos for couples, […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Presqu’ile Winery’s tasting room debuts an art vending machine
The next time wine tasters visit Presqu’ile Winery, they can collect artwork from a coin-operated mini print vending machine. It’s the latest effort from the winery to involve creativity with its food and wine offerings. Created by artist Ana Inciardi, the machine is the first of its kind at a winery in the U.S., according […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Orcutt Bakery calls dibs on the dessert table
For any occasionThe Gerbers deliver from San Luis Obispo to the Santa Ynez Valley. Place online orders for Orcutt Bakery goods by visiting orcuttbakery.com. Call (805) 938-9140 with questions, and see the treats for yourself at 4869 S. Bradley Road, suite 112, in Orcutt. After Danielle and Shawn Gerber spend hours baking and decorating a […]
Posted inMusic, Arts & Culture
Santa Maria’s Inspirational Art Center knows how to throw a party
Alisha Muller lives for “mirror moments.” She can create them in just five minutes, using paint, sponges, brushes, and a touch of glitter. Her clients, most often children, climb onto a tall director’s chair and choose a design from Muller’s face painting samples. Then they try to sit still, anticipating their transformation. Ready to party?Book […]
