N O R T H E R N S A N TA B A RB A R A C O U N T Y ’ S N E W S A N D E N T E R TA I N M E N T W E E K LY > A U G U S T 13 - A U G U S T 2 0 , 2 0 15 > VO L . 16 N O. 23 > W W W. S A N TA M A RI A S U N .C O M
AT THE MOVIES
The Gift: A cleverly wrapped mystery [64]
By Sun staff [8]
NEWS
Lompoc agrees to official meetings with Chumash [5]
ARTS
Hear Wolves at Standing Sun Wines [62]
EATS
Papa Jay’s Quezine brings Louisiana to Guadalupe [69]
OR CUT T AUG. 13 - AUG. 20, 2015 VOL. 16 NO. 23
P Steve, Bill, Dena, Mark & Chris have a combined 150+ years of experience in vehicle repair right here in Old Town Orcutt
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icture the best. No, it’s not you. Well, maybe it is, actually. But only if you’ve captured the hearts and minds of the community you serve: your customers or radio audience, the residents you protect, kids who participate in the after-school program you run or play on the grass at your park, people who eat the food you prepare or drink the wine you created. After all, the annual Best Of Northern Santa Barbara County poll is all about you—the community we serve. You gave us your NO. 1: We asked. You answered. The votes are tallied favorite snapshots, and we laid it all out in this issue. and now you will know who, what, and where came out on top in the annual Best Of Northern Santa Check out the best of the area’s eats in Dine and Barbara County readers poll. Devour [8] ; see where folks go to satisfy their thirst in Liquid Connections [20] ; find those places to get cultured in Arts and Entertainment [26] ; visit a shopper’s paradise in Burnin’ Cash [31] ; gaze upon what you need to stay healthy and glowing in Feelin’ Good [45] ; catch up on who keeps things running in Community on My Mind [50] ; and get out and about with Events and Festivities [56]. Also this week, we cover the latest news [5] ; Standing Sun winery is all about howling with Wolves [62] ; find Cajun food in the Santa Maria Valley [69] ; and more.
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Leaks 13.7%, Other Domestic 2.2%, Dishwasher 1.4%, Bath 1.7%, Clothes Washer 21.7%, Faucet 15.7%, Shower 16.8%, Toile
NEWS
Toilet Clothes Washer Shower Faucet Leaks Other Domestic Bath Dishwasher
27 News Briefs ........................................................5 22 Community Notebook..........................................5 Political Watch17 ...................................................5 16 14 Weather ..............................................................5 2 2 1
ARTS
Local Notes ......................................................62 Humor ..............................................................63
MOVIES
Reviews & Locations ........................................66
OPINION
Web Poll .............................................................6 Commentary .......................................................6 Canary................................................................7
EVENTS CALENDAR
Hot Stuff ..........................................................73 Classifieds, Home, and Real Estate ..................76
Ages 2 ~ Adult ~ Ballet & Tap
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www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 3
When my brother, Evan, and I started Meathead Movers in 1997, we were still in high school: 17 and 15 years old. From the beginning, the San Luis Obispo community embraced us and cheered us along as we grew, stumbled, and improved. It was the willingness of SLO High parents to take a gamble on two brothers and their wrestling and football teammates that made Meathead what it is today. These parents literally picked us up, rented and drove the truck, and then transported us back home at the end of the day. They paid us whatever they thought the service was worth and this is when we learned that hustle and over-the-top service earned us bigger tips and tri-tip sandwiches. More that that, we gained the confidence and drive to change an entire industry.
Two scrappy kids relying on hitched rides, U-hauls, pagers, and the school payphone now employ over 300 awesome people, and a fleet of 67 trucks criss-crossing all of California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Oregon every day. We couldn’t have done it without you. Nearly two-decades of support, feedback, and encouragement— not to mention our 15th consecutive year as Best of SLO winner, we thank YOU!
In 2006 my wife, Erin, joined the company and made it even more of a family endeavor. Since then, we have opened Meathead locations in Ventura County, Orange County, and the Central Valley, built a new San Luis headquarters and Meathead Mini Storage, and launched Princess Packers. Again, it was the resounding support and encouragement of our amazing Central Coast community that helped us take these steps. Everyone from our community banks to the super-supportive Cal Poly Alumni network who eagerly spread the word all over the state about our unique service.
CEO, President
We consider everyone in this community part of our Meathead family. It continues to be our honor to serve you. With gratitude,
Aaron Steed PS: Special shout-out to the 1997 SLOHS Girls Volleyball Team, who coined us the “Meatheads” when we left the weight equipment all sweaty after our workouts.
VOTED “BEST M OVING COM PA NY” O F N O R T HE RN SANTA BARBARA CO UNTY 2015 8 6 6 . 8 43.632 8 | M E ATH EAD M OVE RS .COM 4 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
BRIEFS Community Notebook TUESDAY, AUG. 18
• The Santa Maria City Council has its regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 110 E. Cook St., Santa Maria. Agendas are available at www. cityofsantamaria.org. • The Lompoc City Council has its regular meeting at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 100 Civic Center Plaza, Lompoc. Agendas are available at www.cityoflompoc.com.
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 19
• The Santa Maria Planning Commission has its regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 110 E. Cook St., Santa Maria. • The Vandenberg Village Association has its regular meeting at 7 p.m. at White Oaks Hotel, 3955 Apollo Way, Lompoc. • The Santa Ynez Community Services District has its regular meeting at 7 p.m. in the Board Room, 1070 Faraday St., Santa Ynez. Agendas are available at sycsd.com.
THURSDAY, AUG. 20
• The Santa Maria Planning Commission has a study session at 10 a.m. in the Community Development Department, 110 S. Pine St., Santa Maria. • The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments has its regular board of directors meeting at 8:30 a.m. in the Board of Supervisors Hearing Room, 511 E. Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria. Agendas are available at www.sbcag. org/boardmeetings.html. • The Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District Board of Trustees has its regular meeting at 6 p.m. in the Board Room of the Administrative Office, 2975 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez.
Political Watch • On Aug. 10, state Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) was joined by other local leaders during a press conference in Santa Barbara, where she urged legislators to get behind a ban on new offshore drilling in the Tranquillon Ridge area of the Santa Barbara Channel. Jackson is giving the ban another try this year with a bill she jointly authored with Sen. Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg), SB 78, which would ban new drilling in those state waters, located in a Marine Protected Area off the coast of Vandenberg Air Force Base. The bill is currently in the Assembly Appropriations Committee and is expected to be up for a vote in the state Assembly as the Legislature heads into its last month of the session. • U.S. Rep. Lois Capps (D-Santa Barbara) said she supports legislation introduced on Aug. 5 by U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-California) to expand the California Coastal National Monument through the inclusion of federal lands across the state, including the Piedras Blancas Light Station Outstanding Natural Area in San Luis Obispo County. “Expanding the California Coastal National Monument would provide greater access to these national treasures and ensure that these beautiful landscapes along California’s coast are preserved for all to enjoy,” Capps said in a statement. “I am particularly pleased that Sen. Boxer’s legislation would re-designate Piedras Blancas Light Station as a national monument, an honor befitting this outstanding landmark, which is teeming with historic importance and natural beauty. I look forward to continuing to work with local stakeholders and my colleagues in the House to move this effort forward.” Capps plans to introduce similar legislation in the House of Representatives when it reconvenes in September. • On Aug. 7, Gov. Jerry Brown signed Senate Bill 17, authored by Central Coast state Sen. Bill Monning (D-Carmel), which extends the sunset date for the California Sea Otter Fund by five years and will continue to give California taxpayers the option of supporting the fund. Legislation enacted in 2006 created the fund, which supports researchers in their efforts to study and protect the threatened population of sea otters in the state. Today, the three-year average is slightly less than 3,000 sea otters along the California coastline—onefifth of the historic population. The fund was scheduled to sunset at the start of 2016 and now extends through 2021. Between 2007 and 2014, California taxpayers contributed more than $2.3 million to the fund through their tax return forms. m
Lompoc establishes formal ties with Santa Ynez Chumash In what appears to be the narrowing of a rift between local government and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, the Lompoc City Council voted unanimously on Aug. 4 to formally establish ties with the tribe. Steve Pepe, a member of the city’s economic development committee, brought a recommendation before the council during the meeting that establishes an ad hoc committee consisting of Lompoc’s mayor and a councilmember for a two-year period to meet periodically with two representatives of the tribe to discuss specific matters of mutual interest. The suggestion was put on the table because the city already meets with Tribal Chairman Vincent Armenta on occasion for this reason, Pepe said. Lompoc Mayor Bob Lingl also said that he’s met with the Chumash informally on several occasions, the results of which proved to be quite beneficial to the city, noting substantial donations from the tribe to the YMCA and the new bike park. Sam Cohen, the tribe’s governmental affairs and legal officer, also noted the connection Lompoc already has with the tribe. He said around 800 citizens work for the Chumash and they own several properties in the city, including two hotels, a restaurant, and a winery. “We hope to establish more ties in Lompoc,” Cohen said. “We look forward to doing other cooperative efforts with our friends in Lompoc.” Pepe also noted Solvang’s recent renewal of its own ad hoc committee. Since formally establishing ties with the Chumash in 2013, Solvang Mayor Jim Richardson said the relationship is growing. —David Minsky
Murder charges announced in July 24 Santa Maria slaying Marilyn Pharis wasn’t immediately killed on July 24 when Victor Aureliano Martinez Ramirez and Jose Villagomez allegedly broke into her home, raped, strangled, and struck her repeatedly in the head with a hammer. The 64-year-old military contractor and Air Force veteran died several days later in a hospital. The coroner determined that Pharis died as a result of the attack, according to Santa Maria Police Department Cmdr. Kendall Greene. The charges of attempted murder, sexual assault, and residential burglary that Martinez Ramirez and Villagomez were originally facing were upgraded to murder, torture, and rape, among other charges, according to Santa Barbara County District Attorney Joyce Dudley, who announced her intention to bring the charges during an Aug. 7 televised press conference at the SMPD headquarters. Those charges could carry the death penalty in California. “It’s too soon in our process for me to make a decision about whether this will be a death penalty case,” Dudley said, adding that life in prison without parole would be the other option. “I will seek input from the SMPD, other members from the DA’s office, the defense attorneys for both men. And then after all of them, then, of course, the victim’s family.” The case gained nationwide attention and controversy because Martinez Ramirez is an undocumented immigrant who was arrested— albeit cited and released—for past offenses, according to SMPD Chief Ralph Martin, including possession of methamphetamine two weeks before the attack on Pharis. At the press conference, Martin expressed his frustrations with state and national governments at what he believes is faulty legislation, such as AB 109 and Proposition 47. “We’ve seen AB 109 passed, we’ve seen Prop. 47 passed, I am not remiss to say that from
Washington, D.C., to Sacramento there’s a blood trail leading to the bedroom of Marilyn Pharis,” Martin said. “I think this is a national issue.” Proposition 47 is a measure passed by California voters in November 2014 that reduces certain felonies to misdemeanors, including certain drug offenses like possession. Martin said his department had no choice but to cite and release Martinez Ramirez. But it appears that Martinez Ramirez was being sought by the U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement before he was arrested two weeks ago. According to Lori Haley, a public affairs officer for ICE, the agency lodged an immigration detainer for Martinez Ramirez with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office in May 2014, asking for the Sheriff’s Office to notify ICE when Martinez Ramirez was released. It never happened. “Available records indicate that Mr. Martinez was released by local authorities a week later without ICE receiving the requested notification,” according to an ICE statement issued by Haley. The Sheriff’s Office did not return the Sun’s request for comment regarding ICE’s allegation. While the nation converses about the tragedy of Pharis’ death, Santa Maria experienced another homicide. According to the SMPD, officers responded to an Aug. 7 shooting near the intersection of South Miller and East Cypress streets, where they found 39-year-old Juan Francisco ValdezCortez shot to death. No suspects have been detained, according to the SMPD. Valdez-Cortez’s death marks the eighth homicide in Santa Maria in 2015. —David Minsky
Pilot in Los Padres crash had history of FAA violations
transporting Lee—he buzzed an LAPD copter while flying erratically on approach to Van Nuys Airport. In 2009, gossip website TMZ published a video of adult film actress Puma Swede performing a sex act on him as he flew a helicopter over San Diego. The NTSB figured Martz had violated regulation 91.13(a), which prohibits operating an aircraft “in a careless or reckless manner so as to endanger the life or property of another.” The FAA and NTSB are still investigating the cause of the Los Padres crash. —Sean McNulty
Del Valle medical clinic now open The doors are open at the Del Valle medical clinic on Blosser Road. Community Health Centers of the Central Coast’s new facility, which replaces CHC clinics on Miller and Mill streets, is a “super center” with 13,000 square feet, 10 providers, and 28 exam rooms. It’s open as of Aug. 9, with services from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. The Del Valle clinic, according to communications manager Steve Mahr, will eventually be open 73 hours a week. There’s a rollout process, but by the end of the month they’ll offer not just primary and chiropractic care but acute care with same-day appointments, pediatric services, and mental health. The site is meant to be accessible to Santa Maria’s medically underserved farmworker population, many of whom do not have access to transportation. There’s a team of SpanishEnglish translators behind desks and at the phones, and the organization works with trilingual promotoras for Mixtec- and Triquispeaking patients who need special advocacy. —Sean McNulty
The pilot in a crash that left two dead after leaving Lompoc is reported to have had a history of aircraft Federal Aviation Administration violations, including low-altitude acrobatics and In the Aug. 6 story published in the Sun, an in-flight helicopter sex act with a Swedish “Santa Mara homicides double from 2014,” 11 porn star. homicides occurred in Santa Barbara County as David Keith Martz, a helicopter and fixeda whole in 2014. m wing pilot from San Diego, was flying from Lompoc to Carlsbad along with passenger Birger News Briefs is compiled by Sun writers from Greg Bacino. staff reporting and local and national media. A mayday call reported their plane was losing Information should be sent to the Sun via fax, power over the Los Padres Forest at 9:45 p.m., email, or mail. Aug. 6. Rescue crews weren’t able to reach the crash site, near the Madulce Campground and Don Victor trail in the mountains southwest of Ventucopa, until 7 p.m. Aug. 7. Neither passenger nor pilot survived the crash. Martz left behind a long rap sheet of FAA sanctions for zany and reckless aerial Central Coast Weather Report antics. The feds yanked his license in 1986 Dave Hovde for flying with a forged medical certificate, KSBY Chief Meteorologist according to Aero News. In 2002, they slapped him with a 30-day suspension for “aerial acrobatics” below 1,500 feet while flying low above a popular surf spot and residential neighborhood just south of La Jolla. In 2003, the FAA revoked his license again, saying that he set down his helicopter dangerously close to people COASTAL ➤ High 81 Low 61 COASTAL ➤ High 85 Low 60 on the ground at a Marine Corps Air INLAND ➤ High 91 Low 57 INLAND ➤ High 95 Low 57 Station in Miramar. Then, in 2005, it was suspended yet again, that time for 230 days—he decided to go through with a helicopter flight from Mexico after hitting a wire and damaging the tail section of his bird. Shortly after that suspension was up, in July of 2006, Martz landed a helicopter on a public street in Hollywood Hills. COASTAL ➤ High 85 Low 60 COASTAL ➤ High 84 Low 60 Ignoring the LAPD’s attempts to make INLAND ➤ High 95 Low 58 INLAND ➤ High 92 Low 58 radio contact, he picked up Motley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee and gave him a lift High pressure dominates weather so marine to a Nine Inch Nails concert in Irvine. cooling will be limited and other than a few early Three years later—also while clouds we’ll also see plenty of sun.
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www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 5
CANARY 7
Online Poll What is the best thing about living on the Central Coast? 40% Every day is perfect beach weather. 28% Country livin’ at its finest (the cities aren’t too bad either). 24% It’s not LA and it’s not San Francisco. 8% The wine, baby! 25 Votes
Vote online at www.santamariasun.com.
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The dignified choice The End of Life Option Act should pass when it’s reintroduced in the next legislative session BY ZAF IQBAL
S
tate Sens. Bill Monning (D-Carmel, whose district includes San Luis Obispo County), and Lois Wolk (D-Solano) introduced Senate Bill 128, the End of Life Option Act, in January 2015. Popularly known as “death with dignity,” the bill sailed through the state Senate. However, the lack of support from a majority of the Assembly Health Committee members prevented its advancement to the Assembly floor for a vote, prompting Monning and Wolk to withdraw the measure from the Assembly Health Committee. It is unfortunate that the bill was not passed this year. Three states already have death with dignity laws: Oregon, Washington, and Vermont; two states, Montana and New Mexico, have court rulings protecting physicians who assist patients in dying. Many remember the case of Brittany Maynard. Born in 1984, she was a UC Berkeley psychology graduate, and later earned a master’s degree in education from UC Irvine. She married Dan Diaz in September 2012. On Jan. 1, 2014, just 16 months after her marriage, Maynard was diagnosed with grade 2 astrocytoma brain cancer, for which she received medical treatment. The cancer reappeared in April 2014 and her diagnosis was elevated to grade 4 astrocytoma, with a prognosis of six months or less to live. The family had to move from California to Oregon so that she could take advantage of Oregon’s Death With Dignity Act. Maynard ended her life on Nov. 1, 2014, with her husband holding her hand and the rest of the family surrounding her. In accordance with Oregon’s death with dignity law, the official cause of her death was recorded as a brain tumor on the death certificate. In the last entry Maynard made on Facebook, she stated: “Goodbye to all my dear friends and family that I love. Today is the day I have chosen to pass away with dignity in the face of my terminal illness, this terrible brain cancer that has taken so much from me ... but would have taken so much more ... Goodbye world. Spread good energy. Pay it forward.” Maynard died at age 29. SB 128 was inspired by Maynard’s case. The bill would require all oral and written requests for an aid-in-dying drug to be documented in the individual’s medical records. It would grant terminally ill adult patients the right to request a prescription from a physician for a lethal dose of medication, thus giving them the ability to die peacefully at the time they choose, rather than continuing to suffer severe mental anguish and unbearable physical pain. “It is a good, carefully written bill modeled on Oregon’s successful 20-year-old death with dignity law, and it deserves to pass,” argued the Los Angeles Times editorial board. Participation for physicians and health care providers is completely voluntary.
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6 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
SB 128 would require determination by two physicians: • The prognosis that the patient will die within six months due to the terminal illness; • The patient is mentally competent to make health care decisions for him or herself; • The patient can self-administer lethal dosage of medication. Dr. Rupinder Mann at Eisenhower Medical Center, with 15 years of palliative-care experience, told The Desert Sun that the two-physician requirement is key. It not only addresses mental health but the six-month terminal illness diagnosis. Either physician has the ability to raise a flag, “and when in doubt, the entire decision should be put on hold.” SB 128 would require that at such a point an evaluation must be made by a psychiatrist or a psychologist. The patient would be required to make a written request and two oral requests a minimum of 15 days apart, and two witnesses would need to attest the request. There would be a 15-day waiting period between the doctors’ agreement and the issuing of prescription. The patient can decide not to use the prescription or rescind the request for the lethal drug at any time. A recent study in Oregon concluded that a sizable percentage of those who obtained the prescription never ingested the drug. Like the Oregon law, SB 128 would require death certificates to list the underlying illness as the cause of death, with no mention that the terminally ill person had ended his or her own life before the disease did so. This echos Maynard’s statement, “There is a difference
COMMENTARY between a person who is dying and a person who is suicidal ... I do not want to die. I am dying.” According to the Los Angeles Times, 70 percent of Californians believe that dying persons have the right to death with dignity. Polls suggest that anywhere from two-thirds to three-fourths of Americans are in favor of some type of physician-assisted death. There are two major reasons for most Assembly Health Committee members not supporting SB 128. According to the San Jose Mercury News: The first reason some members of the Assembly Health Committee opposed SB 128 is because they are afraid doctors might coerce the poor to end their lives when they become seriously ill. In fact, SB 128 includes safeguards against vulnerable patients, establishing felony penalties for coercing someone to request the lethal medication or forging a request. The state of Oregon has the longest experience among all of the states with legal lethal prescriptions for patients with terminal illnesses. Based on the latest data, most seeking lethal prescriptions are old with the median age being 71, white, well-educated, suffering from cancer, and already under hospice care. According to The Desert Sun, most of those who take the lethal dosage have a college education. The overwhelming majority cite a loss of control, a diminished quality of life, and insufferable pain as the reasons. Only 3 percent give financial hardship as their reason. The data collected in Oregon show that the death with dignity option is sparingly used with fewer than one in 500 deaths; 60 or 70 out of a total of more than 30,000 deaths a year. Numbers in the state of Washington are comparable to that of Oregon. The second reason for the Assembly Health Committee’s lack of support for SB 128, according to the San Jose Mercury News, is strong lobbying by the Catholic Church. Especially noteworthy is the Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles’ heavy lobbying of the Latino members of the Assembly Health Committee to oppose the bill.
COMMENTARY continued page 7
MAYFIELD
OPINION COMMENTARY from page 6 In reality, the majority of California Catholics and Latinos support death with dignity for terminal patients. It is unfortunate that the Catholic Church chooses not to recognize the difference between personal belief and public policy. Personal belief is of the individual, while public policy applies to all. Any church or religious organization deliberately influencing the public policy-making process to attain its objective of aligning the process’s outcome to its own dogma is violating rights of others. It is abusing our system of democracy. This is tantamount to imposing their own beliefs on those who happen to have different beliefs. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution explicitly insulates the U.S. Congress from religious matters. And by inference, it extends to the state legislatures. The reasons for the patients with terminal illnesses seeking physician-assisted death go beyond insufferable pain and physical deterioration; they also include a loss of quality of life and a loss of control for having to depend on others for basic needs. Under these conditions, nobody has the right to tell the patients that they cannot make the deathwith-dignity choice. If the patient chooses not to live the last few months bedridden, constantly suffering from severe pain, and being totally dependent on others (e.g. even going to the toilet), it is callous and cruel to prevent them from making the choice legally. We treat our animals better than this. In response to my question regarding future plans for SB 128, Sen. Monning stated
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in a recent email that SB 128 will certainly be pursued next year. “We will continue to engage members in the state Legislature and make sure they are aware of the strong majorities among all groups, including Catholics, who support SB 128. We also offer the reassurances that we do not seek to change any religious doctrine, and that no one would be required to participate in the End of Life Act if they choose not to,” he elaborated in the email. He voiced his optimism in the statement, “I believe that the question regarding establishment of an End to Life option for terminally ill patients in California is not whether, but when.” Monning expressed the opinion that if the California Legislature is unwilling to pass SB 128, the people of California will do so at the ballot box. Hopefully, the legislation will pass next year. Otherwise, Compassion and Choices plans to put the issue on the 2016 ballot. Since polls have indicated widespread support, the people of California will be able to accomplish what the state Legislature failed to. ❍ Zaf Iqbal is a Sun contributor. He is past associate dean and professor emeritus of accounting at Cal Poly’s Orfalea College of Business. Zaf volunteers with several nonprofit organizations, including Wilshire Hospice, Good Neighbor Program, and Mentoring Program for At Risk Youth at the Pacific Beach High School. He is Partner for the Future at the Southern Poverty Law Center, and past president of the San Luis Obispo Democratic Club. He can be reached at zafiqbalslo@gmail.com.
Wrong and right
D
id you know that the Lompoc City Council officially lists invocation (also known as prayer) on its meeting agendas? So does the city of Santa Maria, by the way. It happens right before the Pledge of Allegiance. I feel a little weird about that. You know, the whole separation of church and state thing. As in, an overtly Christian prayer shouldn’t be part of an official agenda for a government meeting, broadcast to the public. The city of Guadalupe, at least, holds a moment of silence. You can have a Christian moment if you want. You can have an atheist moment, a Buddhist moment, or a Muslim moment. Whatever your heart desires. Remember when Atheists United sued Pismo Beach for having invocations at City Council meetings and an official city chaplain position? The suit alleged that prayers conducted at Pismo Beach City Council meetings and the city chaplain position were unconstitutional. As part of a settlement, five months later in April 2014, the city paid the plaintiff’s attorney fees—$47,500—and got rid of the chaplain and official prayers. But, here I am getting after Lompoc for prayers, when its City Council voted for something truly important on Aug. 4: to officially hold government-to-government meetings with the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. Lompoc is the second city to do so in Santa Barbara County—and hopefully, the county Board of Supervisors is paying attention. Solvang was the first, in 2014. Solvang City Councilmember Hans Duus spoke at the Lompoc meeting, saying, “There’s been a rift in
the valley, and I believe it’s all due to a lack of communication with the tribe.” He alluded to the trouble between some Santa Ynez Valley community members and pretty much any project the tribe embarks upon. “I feel that’s very important to recognize the tribe for what they are. They are a sovereign nation. And to show that respect to them and show the way that we can work together and that we don’t have to be in adversity all the time.” Duus also cautioned Lompoc’s City Council to make the decision for the right reasons, not for the money. I think money is a huge reason for Lompoc—the Chumash Casino Resort is the biggest private employer of Lompoc residents, according to John Linn, who introduced himself as a “resident” when speaking during the public comment portion of the meeting, but assuredly also said “when I was mayor,” as he almost always does. The bike park, the YMCA, and several other capital projects have all received donations from the tribe. It makes sense that it would be an impetus behind official government-to-government talks discussing things of “mutual interest.” However, Lompoc’s Mayor Bob Lingl did point out that meetings between the city and tribe already happen, but making it official is important. “It’s not about the money,” he said. “It is showing mutual respect.” Now, that’s what I’m talking about. I wonder when the county’s going to figure out that more can be done with a diplomatic discussion than with accusations and appeals. ❍ The Canary’s got important things to say. Canaryto-government talks, anyone? Send comments to canary@santamariasun.com.
MARSHALLIA RANCH GOLF COURSE Lompoc
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 805-606-6262 Go online or call to reserve your tee time up to 7 days in advance. Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
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Early Twilight Valid 11am and later WEEKDAYS $25 includes green fees, cart, and range balls OR Walking Rate = $15
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OROWEAT BAKERY OUTLET Now Featuring New Lower Prices Everyday! Buy More…Save More! Double Stamp Days every Wednesday & Saturday
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610-A Betteravia Rd. • Santa Maria • 922-5718
Call in your order
Smith Electric Service Air Conditioning Repair Contractor Promotes the Value of Regular Maintenance of Heating Air Equipment
1138 W Church St. • Santa Maria
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (a.k.a. HVAC) equipment is essential to providing a comfortable lifestyle and working environment in the Central Coast area. It is essential that you maintain your air conditioner, heat pump, and furnace on a regular basis to prevent breakdowns and to manage costly utility bills. Smith reminds homeowners that proper maintenance of an air conditioner, heat pump, or furnace is more than simply keeping it clean. You must have a service technician with the necessary skill set to inspect the electrical components, motors, and belts to make sure your unit will make it through the upcoming heating or cooling season.
Breakfast • Lunch Dinner Market: 805-922-9000 Deli: 805-922-9001
La Perla Market & Deli
(805) 621-5000
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1340 W. Betteravia Rd, Santa Maria
Daily hours 4:30am-10:00pm
Asada Burrito & 16oz Drink ONLY $3.99!
Visit our F B for daily specials
Limit one per person. Expires 8-20-15
you’ve got an opinion. What’s Your Take? We know Everybody’s got one! This week’s online poll 8/13– 8/18
What do you do to help abate local childhood hunger? m Donate food to the Foodbank. m Volunteer in local support kitchens. m Support Head Start and free school lunch programs. m I feed my kids and all of their friends.
Enter your choice online at: SantaMariaSun.com
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 7
Dine & D Evour
BesAtLL
OVER RESTAURANT
B e s tNT
RESTAURAOZING O FOR SCHM A CLIENT
BesRtANT
RESTAU ING FOR TAK NEY YOUR HO
t he h itching p ost
Bill Ostini (owner), Lupe Long, Amanda Markstone, Ciera Cetti, Morgan Allen
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US
“Best Ice Cream” 4 YEARS IN A ROW!
Thank You
for voting us the best locally-owned jewlery store in Santa Barbara County!
ORCUTT OPEN HOURS
Sun–Thur 11am–9:30pm Fri & Sat 11am–10:30pm
168 W. Clark Ave, Old Orcutt 114 W. Branch St., Arroyo Grande 860 Higuera St., Downtown SLO
(805) 474-4068
1140 E. Clark Avenue, Santa Maria · (805) 925-1678
Thank you for voting us one of the best restaurants in Lompoc! DELICIOUS CUISINE • FINE WINES • WARM HOSPITALITY
Stop in for lunch or dinner and check out our great daily specials and homemade desserts! While you’re here visit our Wine Store and Tasting Bar to find nearly 300 different difficult-to-find local wines and unique gifts.
112 South I St., Lompoc (805) 735-4877 sissysuptowncafe.com www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 9
THANK YOU!
FROM ALL OF US AT
the
in Casmalia RS! A E Y 3 6 G N CELEBRATI
RUNNER UP: BEST STEAK BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT BEST PLACE TO GO ON A FIRST DATE BEST RESTAURANT FOR SCHMOOZING CLIENTS BEST RESTAURANT TO TAKE YOUR HONEY RUNNER UP: BEST CATERER
WHEN YOUR GUESTS DESERVE THE BEST—CATERING BY THE HITCHING POST FROM 50-500, 5 COURSE PLATED OR CASUAL THE HP CATERING TEAM DOES ALL THE WORK WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE! Our team and barbecue grill travels to any location.
www.hitchingpost1.com or (805) 937-6151 3325 Point Sal Road • Casmalia, CA. 93429 • (805) 937-6151 10 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
Sweet Victory
Thank you for voting us Best Bakery & Best Wedding Cake Baker!
PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHASHI
MUNCH ON THIS: Hungry? Hit up Orcutt Burgers for the Best Burger in Northern Santa Barbara County.
~ BEST BREAKFAST ~
~ BEST BURGER JOINT ~
135 E. CLARK AVE., ORCUTT ay’s Country Kitchen in Orcutt is going on its 15th year of business, and its 15th year of being voted Best Breakfast on the Central Coast. “My mind is still blown at times, but I am so grateful and blessed to work in this wonderful community,” said Kay Tims, the recently married owner of Kay’s. The born and raised local started at the quaint diner as a server before taking over ownership and operation, while single-handedly raising her daughters. Known for their home-style dishes such as the Hangover Omelet and thick, buttery pieces of French toast, Kay’s provides feel-good food in an old-school atmosphere. —Kristina Sewell
ORCUTT, GROVER BEACH n a county where beef is a delicacy, one of the more difficult decisions in life is deciding where to get a good burger. Readers of the Sun decided that Orcutt Burgers is the place to go for a delicious pile of flame-broiled hamburger meat between two buns. Opened in 1998, owner Spiro Zafiris has been in the same spot ever since. He opened a second location in Grover Beach, but he plans to keep it small. When asked what the most popular menu item is, Zafiris told the Sun what everyone knows. “It’s the burgers,” Zafiris said. “Honestly.” —David Minsky
Kay’s Country Kitchen
K
Orcutt Burgers
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Gina’s Piece of Cake 307 TOWN CENTER EAST, SANTA MARIA iece of cake? Why yes, don’t mind if I do. Especially if that cake is coming from Gina’s Piece of Cake. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ve got to take it to this sweet, sweet bakery, which is filled with pastries that will make you forget your diet and wonder, “What’s a waistline and why do I care about it?” Pillowy whipped cream topped cakes, decadent cookies and tarts, and baked goods that are just as much treats for the eyes as they are for the mouth await at this little bakery tucked into the Santa Maria Town Center East. —Shelly Cone
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Patricio’s Pizzeria 156 S. BROADWAY, ORCUTT atricio’s Pizzeria has been serving up the best pizza in Santa Maria for a quarter of a century. The cheese is a kind of fancy mozzarella, which owner Tom Sumner lovingly tops the toppings— yes the toppings are below the cheese—with before popping that ’za in the oven. That’s the best way for those ingredients to hold their flavor, which is what Sumner told the Sun last year as he was in the midst of expanding his restaurant. Expansions only come to those who make good on their promise of delivering fresh, tasty ingredients that make good pizza. Northern Santa Barbara County has spoken. —Camillia Lanham
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RUNNER-UP: RED LOBSTER
For Voting us
BEST SMOOTHIE
Year after Year!
RUNNER-UP: KLONDIKE PIZZA
~ BEST STEAK ~
~ BEST SEAFOOD ~ 138 E. FOSTER ROAD, SANTA MARIA he Jetty, which Sun readers decided is better than Red Lobster, signals loudly that it’s a seafood restaurant: The walls—corrugated tin and slats of wood painted in primary colors—are festooned with plastic marlins, life preservers, realistically weathered buoys, and a plethora of black-and-white photos of men in hats with boats and fish. The Jetty will deliver great scoops of clam chowder, as seafood restaurants must, and they do burgers, too. Red Lobster, in the meantime, must sulk for a year and plan its revenge. —Sean McNulty
THANK YOU!
~ BEST PIZZA ~
RUNNER-UP: JOVI’S DELIGHTS
The Jetty
307 Town Center East, lower level next to Macy’s
RUNNER-UP: SANTA MARIA BURGERS
RUNNER-UP: THE PANTRY
~ BEST BAKERY ~
ginaspieceofcake.com • (805) 922-7866
Jocko’s Steak House 125 N. THOMPSON AVE., NIPOMO he dining room at Jocko’s Steak House on the south side of the building is a favorite for those who like to see the glowing, smoking oak pit in action. Rows of sumptuous slabs of meat bedeck the grill, including sausages, chops, ribs, and steaks. The steaks! They always come to the table still sizzling, often as tall as they are wide, astounding newcomers with their full, beefy flavor. For Jocko’s regulars, which are numerous, the place is a failsafe to get the best steak money can buy on the Central Coast, served in a no frills, family-friendly atmosphere. —Joe Payne
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Bes t Bes t of
Santa Maria Valley
of
Santa Maria Valley
4854 S. Bradley (CVS Shopping Center) • Orcutt • 938-9011
RUNNER-UP: THE HITCHING POST BEST OF continued page 12 www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 11
walking away energized and healthy. With decor like Buddhas and bamboo, your tummy and your mind will be at peace! Whether you’re on a health food kick or have decided to live an uber-healthy lifestyle, be sure to suggest The Natural Cafe when your squad wants to meet up for lunch. —Annie
RUNNER-UP: THE MOXIE CAFE
~ BEST SANTA MARIA RESTAURANT ~
Shaw’s Steakhouse
714 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA n the mid-19th century, ranchers would take slabs of beef, roast those suckers on a bed of coastal live oaks, and serve them with pinquitos and fresh salsa. Known as Santa Maria-style barbecue, it’s a technique that Shaw’s Steakhouse has been perfecting since it opened in 1953. They offer all the classics, from tri-tip sandwiches to succulent rib eye steaks, with consistent attention to flavor and customer service. “We have some of the best values as far as getting a good steak,” said manager Carl Betty. And his recommendation? “Go with the tri-tip and linguiça special. It’s about as Santa Maria a meal as you can get.” —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: THE SWISS RESTAURANT & BAR
~ BEST ORCUTT RESTAURANT ~
Trattorio Uliveto
PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHASHI
ITALIAN STALLION: Trattorio Uliveto—mix nosh-worthy Italian food with outdoor dining and a fun bar, and you’ve got the Best Orcutt Restaurant.
BEST OF from page 11
~ BEST TRI-TIP SANDWICH ~
Shaw’s Steakhouse
714 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA hen it comes to their famous tri-tip sandwich, Carl Betty—Shaw’s manager of eight years—said they try to abide by the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” policy. Made with a special blend of house seasonings and piled high with thinly sliced tri-tip and not-too-spicy salsa, the sandwich is an explosion of Santa Mariastyle flavor. “We have been making the sandwich the same for years,” Betty said. “The trick is we have mastered the oak pit barbecue.” According to him, proper ventilation is key to prevent the smoke from overpowering the flavor of the meat. —Kristina
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RUNNER-UP: RANCHO NIPOMO DELI & BBQ
~ BEST SALSA ~
Burrito Loco
4869 S. BRADLEY ROAD, NO. 101, ORCUTT hey call it Burrito Loco because you have to be crazy not to eat there, according to the readers of the Sun, who chose this Mexican restaurant for having the best salsa this year. It’s not hard to see why. Coming in both mild and hot, the salsa is blended with the perfect mixture of tomatoes and chiles and goes great on a burrito. Burrito Loco apparently has a reputation for good salsa: They were chosen for best salsa in 2011 and 2013, too. Besides good salsa, the restaurant also makes delicious carne asada, serves breakfast, and has a vegetarian menu. —David
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RUNNER-UP: CIELITO LINDO MEXICAN GRILL
happen. That magic is called a taco. And while it’s hard to mess up a taco (though Jack in the Box certainly tries hard), it’s equally difficult to make an outstanding one. But Casa Mañana does just that. Since 1954, this family-operated restaurant’s been crafting tacos out of quality, fresh ingredients by hand. They even handshred the beef for an authentic, homespun taste. According to manager Jason Ontiveros, it’s that kind of time and preparation that make Casa Mañana the taco of the town. —Jessica Peña
1640 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA dds are, if you bring together a tortilla shell, meat, beans, veggies, and cheese, magic will
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RUNNER-UP: THE MOXIE CAFE
~ BEST ICE CREAM/ FROZEN YOGURT ~
RUNNER-UP: CIELITO LINDO MEXICAN GRILL
Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Lab
~ BEST BURRITO ~
Vaqueras Authentic Mexican Food 908 N. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA ure, California has much to be proud of. A scenic coastline, ideal weather, Tom Hanks. But when it comes down to it, California does one thing better than just about anywhere else— the burrito. And if you’re ever hankering for some tortilla-wrapped goodness on a Friday or Saturday, look out for the long line in front of the Vaqueras Authentic Mexican Food truck. There, you’ll have your choice of marinated pork, spicy chicken, or beef tongue burritos among a bevy of other items (tacos, tortas, etc.) and the mighty California burrito (complete with french fries, guac, and sour cream). Vaqueras does California proud. —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: CASA MAÑANA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
~ BEST DELI SANDWICHES ~
~ BEST TACO ~
Casa Mañana Mexican Restaurant
comments, “It is amazing for a little mom-andpop place, everything is homemade!” After many years of loyal customers spreading the word of this little Italian deli, Papa Napoli’s has become the hot spot for a great sub. Everyone from lunchbreakers to soccer moms drop in regularly. Word on the street is that the pastrami is addictive! —Annie Heisler
Papa Napoli’s
325 E. BETTERAVIA ROAD, SANTA MARIA he instant you walk through the doors of Papa Napoli’s, your mouth waters from the delicious smell of Italian subs. After mentioning that his family-owned restaurant has been in business for almost 33 years, Donna Napoli
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ORCUTT, ARROYO GRANDE, SLO ith a goal of creating enduring memories for each and every guest, the team at Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Lab is big on combining creative variations of beloved ice cream flavors with exceptional customer service. “Our secret is that our cream comes from the happiest cows, which results in the best tasting cream,” said Founder Greg Steinberger. Seriously though, Doc’s creations are made locally with a high cream content and served extremely fresh, “making for a super-creamy taste sensation.” Satisfy your adventurous side with Straight to the Dentist, a cotton candy, marshmallow, and rainbow sprinkles sweet treat, or local favorites Motor Oil, Sea Salt Caramel, and Merlot Raspberry Truffle. —Meagan Friberg
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RUNNER-UP: YOGURT CREATIONS
~ BEST RESTAURANT FOR VEG-HEADS ~
The Natural Cafe
SANTA MARIA, SANTA BARBARA, GOLETA, SLO egetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike will all enjoy the fresh and natural nutrition that The Natural Cafe provides. Although red meats are not served here, customers can get their carnivorous cravings fixed with turkey, chicken, and fish options that will have you
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285 BROADWAY ST., ORCUTT or several years in a row, locals have agreed that the culinary jewel in Orcutt’s crown is Trattorio Uliveto, where chef and owner Alfonso Curti makes sure his signature Italian food is made from the freshest ingredients available. “We live in California, and all our ingredients are picked fresh every day,” Curti said. It’s not just the food, but the hospitality and ambiance at Trattorio Uliveto that define the restaurant as well, Curti explained. “When you come to my place you feel like you are home,” he said. “We have great food, but sometimes great food is not enough, you need to have people that take care of you.” —Joe
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RUNNERS-UP (TIE): ROONEY’S IRISH PUB, THE FAR WESTERN TAVERN
~ BEST LOMPOC RESTAURANT ~
La Botte Italian Restaurant 812 NORTH H ST., LOMPOC early 50 years ago, Nick and Caterina Agate came to the United States from Italy, eventually settling down in Lompoc to open a restaurant dedicated to the foods and flavors of their home country. Nearly 35 years later, Caterina and her family are still cooking up plates of tasty dishes, such as one of Caterina’s personal favorites, her cioppino seafood soup. For each batch, she treks to Avila Beach where she handpicks fresh fish, oysters, and mussels. That’s the dedication that keeps her and the passion behind La Botte going. There’s a personal touch. “I love taking care of people,” she said. “It gives me a reason to be alive.” —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: SISSY’S UPTOWN CAFE
~ BEST GUADALUPE RESTAURANT ~
Guadalupe Restaurant
757 GUADALUPE ST., GUADALUPE uadalupe Restaurant sits on Guadalupe Street in the small city of—you guessed it— Guadalupe. Now, that’s a lot of Guadalupe. But don’t be intimidated. The key to Guadalupe, the city and the restaurant, is simplicity. A familyowned operation, Guadalupe Restaurant feels like the best home kitchen in the neighborhood, serving classic Mexican dishes for remarkably
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BEST OF continued page 15
From the Beaches to the Mountains... 00 4 0 , 0 0 88 $1,1-544-7 8 05
,9 9 0 4 $10244-788 -5 805
Highly Visible Site Atascadero
Perfect Little Getaway Cambria
Just Reduced Santa Maria
MLS #1048923
MLS #1055250
New Listing Orcutt
0 7,90 0 $38 34-100 -9 805
4BD/3BA in Gated Community Lake Nacimiento
New Listing Orcutt
00 95,0-1103 9 , 1 $ 350 805 MLS #1055112
0 5,00 4 $58 44-788 -5 805
0 5,00 0 $40 39-190 -2 805 MLS #1055178
MLS #1055583
0 2 ,5 0 1 $ 5 4 7 3 - 6 61 -7 805
New Listing Lake Nacimiento
MLS #1057871
Perfect Vacation Getaway Morro Bay
0 5,00 0 $37 34-100 -9 805
MLS #1057944
0 9,00 4 $42 44-788 -5 805
0 5,00 0 $26 39-190 -2 805 MLS #1058003
MLS #1056739
0 5,00 1 $ 5 0 7 3 - 6 61 -7 805
Newly Redecorated Paso Robles
MLS #1057128
Bright & Sunny End Unit Grover Beach
New Listing Santa Maria
MLS #1057999
0 9,00 4 $53 44-788 -5 805
0 0,00 0 $45 39-190 -2 805
0 9,50 0 $34 34-100 -9 805
New Listing San Luis Obispo
Easy Maintenance Home Morro Bay
0 9,00 7 $84 72-444 -7 805
Just Reduced Morro Bay
0 9,00 5 $ 6 4 9 5 -3 5 0 -9 805 MLS #1057939
Just Reduced Atascadero
MLS #1055052
MLS #1056690
0 9,00 1 $ 2 7 7 3 - 6 61 -7 805
Affordable & Clean MH Paso Robles
MLS #1057784
Charming Home in Great Neighborhood Santa Maria
MLS #1057611
,000 $8539-1900 -2 805
Sat. & Sun. Aug. 15th & 16th 1-4PM 1421 Lahr Ln. Santa Maria
MLS #1057018
Historic Market & Deli Cambria
MLS #1057334
MLS #1057430
0 0,00 1 $ 3 8 7 3 - 6 61 -7 805
Recreational Lot Lake Nacimiento
0 5,00 7 $54 72-444 -7 805
MLS #1058063
3BD/3BA Condo Santa Maria
E! OUS849 H N OPE -757-0 805
Sale Pending Cayucos
,000 7 $19972-444 -7 805 MLS #1044164
8
,00 $12044-7884 0 5 -5
White Hawk Vineyard Lo Alamos
Rare 1 Acre Parcel Los Osos
0 0,00 5 $ 6 0 9 5 -3 5 0 -9 805 MLS #1047114
000 $75,39-1900 05-2
MLS #1057978
8
Just Reduced San Luis Obispo
MLS #1055333
0 3,00 1 $ 3 7 7 3 - 6 61 05-7
00 7 0 , 0 0 73 $9,3-680-8 8 05
MLS #1055243
Spectacular Ocean & Rock Views Morro Bay
MLS #1056850
8
MLS #1055970
MLS #1056741
,0060611 0 0 $ 7 7 738 05
Unique Spanish Style Santa Ynez
Very Private With Ocean Views Cayucos
Call Any One of Our Offices Today! SANTA MARIA
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www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 13
Thank You
Best Breakfast in SERVING BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DAILY Mon through Sat 6-2 and Sunday 7-2 Town 15 Years 135 E. Clark Ave, Old Orcutt in a Row Best Coffee Shop 14 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
(805) 934-4429
KaysCountryKitchenOrcutt
BEST OF from page 12 affordable prices (A full plate of steak picado for under $11? Yes, please!). With a menu of everything from savory enchiladas to huevos rancheros with a side of their famous, deep-fried bacon, you begin to wonder whether the city named itself after the restaurant. —Jessica
RUNNER-UP: ROMO’S MARKET
~ BEST NIPOMO RESTAURANT ~
Jocko’s Steak House
125 N. THOMPSON AVE., NIPOMO ipomo isn’t a huge town, but its oldest restaurant sure has a huge reputation. Jocko’s Steak House is certainly known across the state—if not the country, and, dare I say, the world—for its relaxed atmosphere and downhome California ranchers style dinners. There’s good reason why locals and out-of-towners often wait more than an hour to be seated. They are eager for the full dinner, which includes the consistently crispy relish trays, satisfying salads (pickled beet, anyone?), oak barbecued meats, stick-to-your-ribs potatoes, and, of course, the scoop of ice cream and coffee to top it all off. —Joe
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grilled Colorado lamb chops, traditional Santa Maria tri-tip, and flaky Ivory Salmon; Ogden focuses primarily on wine-friendly cuisine to complement the massive wine list at Root 246. The restaurant itself is cozy, chic, and offers multiple dining rooms and an enthusiastic staff eager to provide a unique dining experience for locals and visitors alike. —Kristina
RUNNER-UP: PAULA’S PANCAKE HOUSE
~ BEST LOS OLIVOS RESTAURANT ~
Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café 2879 GRAND AVE., LOS OLIVOS rganic farm produce. A lush, country-style setting. Five hundred types of wine. There’s a lot to love about the Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café. For 20 years, owners Sam and Shawnda Marmorstein have cultivated a farm-to-table oasis that grows and gets better by the year. They’ve got it all, from freshly caught salmon to hand-made gnocchi topped off with a Santa Maria Valley pinot noir. “Local is our focus,” Shawnda told the
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Sun. “It’s a great place for people to come see foods and wine of the Central Coast.” —Jessica
~ BEST SANTA YNEZ RESTAURANT ~
Brothers Restaurant at the Red Barn
RUNNER-UP: SIDES HARDWARE & SHOES
~ BEST LOS ALAMOS RESTAURANT ~
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Full of Life Flatbread
225 BELL ST., LOS ALAMOS he world is constantly changing, so wouldn’t it be nice to have a constantly changing menu at your favorite restaurant? Full of Life Flatbread does; they change their menu weekly to provide the best experience possible. Clark Staub, owner, started with the idea that he wanted to build his own stone oven for baking bread, which is now proudly displayed in the center of the dining room. The town itself is forever expanding: “It’s fantastic to be a part of the change in Los Alamos, very humbling,” Staub explained. From the organic food to the changing menu, Full of Life Flatbread fits well into the atmosphere of Los Alamos. —Annie
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RUNNER-UP: BELL STREET FARMS
3539 SAGUNTA ST., SANTA YNEZ ong before brothers Matt and Jeff Nichols made it their own, the Red Barn in Santa Ynez began as a dance hall—a rustic hot spot for conviviality and community spirit. Good news is the brothers Nichols have maintained that hospitable, small town charm. Since its opening in 2013, Brothers Restaurant at Red Barn has managed to provide high quality, mouth-watering fare (we’re talking the fancy stuff—tuna tartar, roasted chicken stuffed with goat cheese) with a cozy, family kitchen atmosphere. Try the grilled prime filet with caramelized onion potato gratin and port wine sauce, says co-owner/brother Jeff. It’s the best taste of home on the block. —Jessica
RUNNER-UP: TRATTORIO GRAPPOLO BEST OF continued page 16
RUNNER-UP: RANCHO NIPOMO DELI & BBQ
~ BEST BUELLTON RESTAURANT ~
The Hitching Post II
406 E. HIGHWAY 246, BUELLTON he original Hitching Post, built during 1952 in Casmalia, expanded to Buellton 34 years later to what became known as The Hitching Post II; a Hitching Post Jr., if you will. The Hitching Post II took on a great name to live up to, and it has succeeded. Using famous Santa Mariastyle barbecuing combined with contemporary styles of cooking, this place creates dishes the Central Coast can be proud of. Next time you have relatives or old friends visit you from out of town, be sure to bring them to The Hitching Post II for some authentic food you can’t re-create anywhere else in America. —Annie
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RUNNER-UP: PEA SOUP ANDERSEN’S
~ BEST SOLVANG RESTAURANT ~
Root 246
420 ALISAL ROAD, SOLVANG on’t be fooled by the quaint shops and small population of a little more than 5,000—Solvang is chock-full of dining gems and unforgettable wine cuisine. One of those gems is Root 246 restaurant, run by world-renowned chef Bradley Ogden. The mission of this elegantly modern restaurant is to provide a farm-fresh, flavor-packed dining experience for guests. Menu items are dependent on what’s available during the season and can include tender wood-
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PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHASHI
FOODIE MECCA: Root 246 is nestled among the Danish sights of Solvang, but a trip through the menu shows you nothing of the sort. Prosciutto-wrapped scallops from the Best Solvang
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BEST OF from page 15
~ BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT ~
The Hitching Post
3325 POINT SAL ROAD, CASMALIA he Hitching Post in Casmalia is many things—a former hotel and bar to the cowboys of old Casmalia and the inheritance and estate of the Ostini family. The Hitching Post is also many things for Bill Ostini, who was 3 years old when his family took over the restaurant. He grew up in the back of the house, and ended up buying the restaurant with his brother in 1978. “It wasn’t work,” he told the Sun. “It was love. Part of my family, part of my heritage, part of my being now.” —Sean
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RUNNER-UP: NORTH CHINA
3325 POINT SAL ROAD, CASMALIA erri Strickland, who manages the Hitching Post, thinks it appropriate that her restaurant won Best Restaurant for Taking Your Honey this year. The Hitching Post, she said, was a “special place” for her parents to go on dates together. “That’s why my dad ended up buying it,” she said. The Ostini family worked in the front of the restaurant and lived in the back. When her father passed in 1977, her brothers bought the restaurant, and the bonds of the Ostini family keep the restaurant together to this day. —Sean
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RUNNER-UP: TRATTORIO ULIVETO
~ BEST RESTAURANT FOR LETTING KIDS BE KIDS ~
125 N. THOMPSON AVE., NIPOMO ungry locals, this writer included, know that they can get a full dinner experience without breaking the bank at Nipomo’s historic Jocko’s Steak House. My personal favorite, the kielbasa dinner is $13. That’s $13 for three huge sausages served with potatoes or rice, along with what every dinner at Jocko’s comes with: a wonderful relish tray, crackers and salsa, salad, and ice cream and coffee to top it off. Another great option for those on the go is the chef salad, stuffed with four kinds of protein, delicious house-made dressing, a relish tray, and bread. No matter what I get, I leave full and my beard smells smoky. —Joe
2254 S. BRADLEY ROAD, SANTA MARIA t’s not hard to understand why Chuck E. Cheese’s is the best place where a kid can be a kid—because it is! At least that’s what our readers say. It also happens to be the company’s slogan. Even though the chain started in 1977, the Santa Maria location has been throwing a good time for kids and adults for 10 years. Token arcade games, pizza, flashy lights and noises, and general awesomeness—what more can a kid want? Whether to host a birthday party or just hang with the family for the evening, general manager Debora Templeton has got you covered. —David
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Runner Up: Best Overall Restaurant AND Best Meal for Your Money
The Hitching Post
~ BEST MEAL FOR YOUR MONEY ~
Jocko’s Steak House
Winner: Best Chinese Restaurant
~BEST RESTAURANT FOR TAKING YOUR HONEY ~
RUNNER-UP: NORTH CHINA RESTAURANT
Chuck E. Cheese’s
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RUNNER-UP: KLONDIKE PIZZA BEST OF continued page 19
Thanks for Your Support Since 1986
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RUNNER-UP
(805) 925-3705
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LUCKY
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S MUSIC AWARDS E M I T W NE music to all ears
Thank you for voting us best white wine!
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(805) 925-8112
BEST OF from page 16
~ BEST RESTAURANT FOR SCHMOOZING A CLIENT ~
The Hitching Post
3325 POINT SAL ROAD, CASMALIA ome clients may have heard of the Hitching Post on their own, of course, but when you walk them in the front door with the smell of oak pit barbecue in the air, the deal is as good as done. After you’ve showed off the behind-theglass chef, try buying them a steak. It depends on the client, of course, but if they happen to be a meat-eating type—an Argentinian businessman, perhaps, or a well-mustachioed Santa Maria Valley rancher, or any kind of average Joe or Jane—The Hitching Post will provide. —Sean
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RUNNER-UP: SHAW’S STEAKHOUSE
~ BEST CATERER ~
Testa Catering
2218 S. THORNBURG, SANTA MARIA esta Catering exploded from its humble catering roots when it first opened in 1983—it is now the largest catering service in Northern Santa Barbara County. Locally owned by husband-and-wife team Debby and Martin Testa, the catering company specializes in Santa Maria-style barbecue and farm-fresh dishes. The catering company prides itself on having an “attention to detail” and more than 75 years of combined catering experience. From small, private events to gigantic weddings, Testa Catering handles it all. When they aren’t running their catering service, the Testas are busy providing an intimate dining experience at their private dining establishment, Testa Bistro. —Kristina
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PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHASHI
DELI-CIOUS: Chicken parmigiano sub. That’s all you need to know about Papa Napoli’s. Best Deli ever.
RUNNER-UP: TRADER JOE’S
~ BEST STRAWBERRY STORE ~
Darensberries Specialty Farms
RUNNER-UP: THE HITCHING POST
~ BEST HEALTH FOOD/VITAMIN STORE ~
Lassen’s Natural Foods
1790 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA anta Maria doesn’t have a Whole Foods, but it does have a Lassen’s Natural Foods and Vitamins. Opening the first store in Camarillo in 1971, Lassen’s is filled with fresh organic produce and loaded with vitamins and supplements to aid in virtually any health need. What is it about this hidden gem that Santa Marians love so much? Maybe it’s the supplements or maybe it’s the famous deli. From vegan bratwursts, hot beef and cold free-range turkey sandwiches, a variety of smoothies, and fresh organic juice, a quick lunch stop at Lassen’s might be in order. They also serve breakfast. —David
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RUNNER-UP: VITAMIN AND HERB STORE
~ BEST GROCERY STORE ~
Spencer’s Fresh Market 3580 ORCUTT ROAD, SANTA MARIA oasting a large selection of locally grown, fresh, flavorful produce as well as local wines, craft beer, cheeses, seafood, tasty poultry, mouth-watering Harris Ranch beef and more, Spencer’s Fresh Market has it all. “We are local, family-owned, and we strive for superior customer service,” said store manager Richard Bjork. “Our employees are some of the friendliest around, and they love interacting with our customers.” Try the homemade, fresh salsa and sausages—just a couple of items unique to Spencer’s—and indulge in some good old-fashioned Santa Maria-style barbecue on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., including tri-tip, baby-back ribs, chicken, and kielbasa sausages. —Meagan
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714 S. BLOSSER ROAD, SANTA MARIA t’s no secret that Santa Maria is widely known for the best strawberries. In this kingdom of strawberry fields, the ruler is Darensberries with 700 acres of fields and 11 years of business. These super sweet berries are the candy of the health food world and this stand picks them fresh daily. The people of the Central Coast are always coming up with new recipes and uses for strawberries, and Darensberries keeps the main ingredient coming to satisfy the high demand. When you drive by their stand, don’t forget to pick up a basket … or five! —Annie
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RUNNER-UP: THE BERRY STOP
~ BEST HISPANIC MARKET ~
Vallarta Supermarkets
1875 N. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA allarta is a big chain with dozens of stores, which form a veritable Hispanic grocery empire that stretches from San Diego to Santa Maria and deep up into the Central Valley. They boast not one, but two locations in Santa Maria, dishing up tacos, enchiladas, rice and beans, carnitas, and other delicious dishes from the hot deli; freshly blended juices; and freshly baked breads and treats. With aisle upon aisle of dry goods and a gigantic fresh produce section, Santa Marians say “yes, please” to Vallarta. —Sean
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RUNNER-UP: LA PERLA MARKET & DELI
~ BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT ~
North China Restaurant
113 N. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA orth China takes Best Chinese pretty much every year. Maybe it’s the chili peppers that they stew themselves in white wine, the
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golden pot stickers they produce from scratch, or the legions of loyal customers who pack the restaurant at lunchtime and dinner. “We have a lot of regulars,” said Michael Sun, who took over the restaurant when his parents retired seven years ago. He emphasized they’re “stoked” to take second in Overall Best Restaurant this year. —Sean
RUNNER-UP: MING DYNASTY
~ BEST JAPANESE RESTAURANT ~
Atari-Ya Japanese Restaurant
1551 STOWELL CENTER PLAZA, SANTA MARIA he latest celebrity-eats show has people hunting down the best sushi joint. The outcome of this hunger-driven mission has led Sun readers to Atari-Ya. What started as a sushi bar 31 years ago has expanded into a full Japanese-style restaurant. Though this peaceful, quiet, and relaxed restaurant would make for a perfect romantic date night on the weekdays, the weekends are known to get hectic with drooling guests! Keiko Hongo, owner, would like to say, “domo arigato,” which translates to “thank you very much,” to all of the locals and travelers alike for their support. —Annie
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RUNNER-UP: YANAGI SUSHI
~ BEST ITALIAN FOOD ~
Trattorio Uliveto
285 BROADWAY ST., ORCUTT rimson red sauces, creamy whites, homemade pasta, and incredibly handled meats and fish come together to make a dinner that goes beyond just a meal and into the realm of true art at Trattorio Uliveto in Orcutt. Chef and owner Alfonso Curti was born and raised in Calabria, Italy, so the incredible flavors, passion, and hospitality found at his restaurant runs through his veins, Curti told the Sun. “It’s something I don’t really have to try at, it’s in my genes,” he said. “When you have a great
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ingredient in front of you, and you have that passion, you come up with a great recipe.” —Joe
RUNNER-UP: LA BOTTE ITALIAN RESTAURANT
~ BEST AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD ~
El Pueblito Restaurant 603 S. BLOSSER ROAD, SANTA MARIA anta Maria boasts three different Taco Bells, dotted like beacons of divine light throughout the city, and if Best Inauthentic Mexican Food was a category, I’m sure they’d win every time. That being said, I like El Pueblito for three main reasons: There’s plenty of shady parking spots (a true rarity!), their burritos are a steal at five bucks, and the carnitas served on Thursdays is excellent. Service is fast, there’s plenty of soccer on the television, and you can go check out the ride-on mowers at the John Deer store after you get your burrito. What more could you want? —Sean
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RUNNER-UP: CASA MAÑANA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
~ BEST OUTDOOR DINING ~
The Moxie Cafe
1317 W. MCCOY LANE, SANTA MARIA utdoor diners in the Santa Maria Valley often have loud, busy streets and gusting afternoon winds to battle against, but The Moxie Cafe is in a prime location to find escape from those elements, explained Jay Hardy, president of Hardy Diagnostics, which owns The Moxie Cafe. “The building, being tall, it blocks the wind, so you’re totally shielded from the famous Santa Maria wind,” he said. “The other thing is the building faces south, so even during the winter it’s sunny and warm, so it’s an ideal location.” The industrial park area clears out after 5 p.m., Hardy explained, so the street isn’t too busy, and diners can enjoy food and beer flights in peace. —Joe
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www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 19
L iQUID CONNECTIONS
Rooney’s Irish Pub Tim Rooney (owner), Jake Rooney, Ashlyn Rooney
BestAR
SPORTS B
BesAtLL OVER BAR
20 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
BesPt Y HAP HOUR
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 21
PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHASHI
~ BEST RED WINE ~
~ BEST TASTING ROOM ~
Riverbench Vineyard & Winery
Riverbench Vineyard & Winery
6020 FOXEN CANYON ROAD, SANTA MARIA inot noir lovers know that some of the best pinot noirs in the world can be found in this area, and Riverbench Vineyard & Winery, which was established in 1973, knows how to treat the delicate grape. Winemaker Clarissa Nagy has a knack for finessing fine flavor from the notoriously difficult-to-work-with grape and creating beautiful award-winning wines. Red wine not your thing? They also make chardonnay and sparkling wines. —Shelly Cone
6020 FOXEN CANYON ROAD, SANTA MARIA here’s something beautiful about standing in a chic tasting room in the middle of acres of some of the oldest vines in the county and sipping some of the best wines in the world. Santa Maria residents get to do this any time they want at Riverbench Winery & Vineyard. And they do, considering that the community voted it best tasting room. Be jealous, Los Angeles. Be very jealous. There must be something about the contemporary styling of the tasting room juxtaposed with aged vines that makes this tasting room stand apart. Or it could just be the taste of an excellent pinot noir. —Shelly
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RUNNER-UP: RANCHO SISQUOC WINERY
RUNNER-UP: PRESQU’ILE WINERY
~ BEST WHITE WINE ~
Cambria Estate Winery
5475 CHARDONNAY LANE, SANTA MARIA state-grown and bottled wines—that’s what the team at Cambria Estate Winery takes pride in producing. The largest estate vineyard and winery in Santa Barbara County—with some vines planted in the early ’70s—boasts a longtime staff that makes up the incredible production, winemaking, and vineyard crews with Winemaker Denise Shurtleff at the helm. “Our incredible staff takes pride in their work,” Shurtleff said, “and the cool climate of the Santa Maria Valley helps us produce grapes with an abundance of flavor, aroma, and acidity.” Cambria is known for making the award-winning chardonnay, pinot gris, and viognier that local white wine lovers turn to time and time again to pair with their favorite foods. —Meagan
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RUNNERS-UP (TIE): RIVERBENCH VINEYARD, WILLIAM JAMES CELLARS
~ BEST WINERY OR BREWERY TASTING TRANSPORTATION ~ DRINK UP: A glass of wine in the hand is worth more between your lips, especially if it’s from the winery with the Best
Red Wine, Riverbench. Just ask Elizabeth Thompson.
~ BEST BREWERY ~
Figueroa Mountain Brewery SANTA MARIA, LOS OLIVOS, BUELLTON igueroa Mountain Brewery is embarking on its fifth year of business on the Central Coast. Starting out as a small dream in 2010, the brewery exploded from one taproom to four taprooms, with more to come. The most recent taproom recently made its debut in Arroyo Grande with another taproom set to appear in Westlake Village. Originally founded by fatherand-son team Jim and Jaime Dietenhofer, the
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brewery provides craft beer that captured the essence of the Santa Ynez Valley through unique flavor and the hand-drawn landscapes on their bottles. Producing 20,000 barrels annually, Figueroa Mountain is known for the delicious variety of beers they have to offer such as the nutty, malty flavor of the Davy Brown Ale or the essence of pine and hops in their seasonal Big Cone Black Rye IPA. —Kristina
RUNNER-UP: SANTA MARIA BREWING COMPANY
Gold Coast Limousines
3463 STATE ST., SUITE 408, SANTA BARBARA or most of us, transportation is just a means to get from point A to point B. It’s a beat-up old pick-up truck, a rusted jalopy, or, if you’re Doc Brown, a time-travelling DeLorean. But none of us can be Doc Brown, alas. That’s why we need Gold Coast Limousines. There’s no better way to see the picturesque valleys, hills, and appetizing vineyards of Santa Barbara County and the Central Coast. For 30 years, owner Phil Conklin has provided a fleet of limos, sedans, and shuttles to accommodate those who like to travel in style. Not only does he provide a concierge and event service, he offers several wine tour packages for friends, family, and lovers alike. —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: THE WINE LINE BEST OF continued page 25
The Central Coast Family Care Office of Dr. John Okerblom would like to extend a sincere
Thank You
to all of our patients on the central coast who voted for Dr. John Okerblom as Best General Doctor of northern Santa Barbara county.
Dr. John Okerblom Dr. Melinda Jezierski Dr. William Okerblom Kerrie Paras, PA-C 22 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
Accepting new patients! Most major insurance accepted
Visit our website: www.ccfcmedical.com
915 E. Stowell Road, Suite B Santa Maria, CA 93454
(805) 938-7444
Thank you
S a n t a M a r i a Va l l e y !
BEST OF GRAPHIC HERE
VOTED BEST PLACE FOR SENIOR LIVING! Merrill Gardens at Santa Maria is a resort-style community with many amenities and apartment choices to suit your living style! Call today to schedule a personal visit! (805) 863-9280 1220 Suey Road Santa Maria, CA 93454 merrillgardens.com
Lic #425801806
Independent Retirement • Assisted Living • Memory Care 073115b_Santa_Maria_Best_Of_CMYK_U_A.indd 1
Thank You For Voting Us #1!
7/31/15 9:49 AM
From the Entire TrattoriaUliveto Staff
Thank You Northern Santa Barbara County for Voting Us:
Best Caterer 12 Years in a Row!
Winner! BEST ORCUTT RESTAURANT BEST PLACE FOR TAKING YOUR HONEY Offering Full Bar Services Contact Us About Catering
Testa Catering.com 805-739-0809 2218 S. Thornburg, Santa Maria
Fine Italian Cuisine
TrattoriaUliveto.com • 805-934-4546 285 S. Broadway, Old Orcutt
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 23
Darensberries staff
wishes to
thank all
Thank You For Voting Rooney’s the Best!
of our
customers
for their continued
support
Best Sports Bar Best Overall Bar Best Happy Hour Best Live Music Venue Runner-Up Best Orcutt Restaurant
Bes t Bes t of
Santa Maria Valley
of
Santa Maria Valley
WINNER
Thank you for voting us “Best Strawberry Stand”
There Are No Strangers At Rooney's Irish Pub Only Friends You Haven’t Met
241 S. Broadway Street, Old Town Orcutt Hwy 101 & Betteravia next to Pappy’s 805-937-8000 • Follow Us on 24 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
805 934-3777 W W W. R O O N E Y S I R I S H P U B . N E T
BEST OF from page 22
~ BEST MARGARITA ~
Pepper Garcia’s
3301 TERMINAL DRIVE, SANTA MARIA esides serving food, Pepper Garcia’s holds a singular distinction: having the best margarita in Northern Santa Barbara County, according to Sun readers. There are many places to get one, but what makes this one so special? Being situated at the Santa Maria Airport, there’s nothing that says “welcome to Santa Maria” better than a little bit of the hair of the dog that is a crisp margarita. Or, conversely, there’s nothing better that’ll help soothe the nerves before a flight. If you get lucky, the hostess will seat you near the window for a great view of flights taking off and landing. —David
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RUNNER-UP: DOS CARLITOS RESTAURANT
~ BEST COWBOY BAR ~
Cool Hand Luke’s Steakhouse/Saloon 1321 NICHOLSON AVE., SANTA MARIA hen stepping into Cool Hand Luke’s, expect the ambiance to be a little on the rustic side. But cowboy hats, snakeskin boots, and oversized belt buckles aren’t the only things big country in this place. The “enormous” steak, rib, and seafood dinners will put any cattle rustler over the edge for the evening. Decorated with wagon wheels, old style lanterns, and sundry American frontierera relics against the backdrop of rustic
wood, the interior will make you think you’ve stepped back in time to the Old West. When you go, be sure to drop a line to owner Scott Van Pelt. —David
RUNNER-UP: THE FAR WESTERN TAVERN
metal bar, and Irish sayings written on the walls in Gaelic typeface. The Sun’s voting electorate decided this spot’s live music and DJs on the weekends and run-into-yourneighbors vibe is better than what you can get everywhere else. —Sean
~ BEST SPORTS BAR ~
RUNNER-UP: COOL HAND LUKE’S STEAKHOUSE/SALOON
241 BROADWAY ST., ORCUTT hat’s a sports bar? Is it a bar where you go to watch sports? Or is it a bar that you go to maybe to catch up with a friend or just to have a drink, before finding yourself helpless and paralyzed in the warm glow of television screens—screens wherever you look, in every direction, catching your gaze and leaving you slack-jawed every 30 seconds or so? You can def initely watch sports on a number of screens at Rooney’s, but there are also lots of places to sit where sports are only background noise and your friends and family are the main event. —Sean
~ BEST HAPPY HOUR ~
Rooney’s Irish Pub
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RUNNER-UP: COOL HAND LUKE’S STEAKHOUSE/SALOON
~ BEST OVERALL BAR ~
W
Rooney’s Irish Pub
241 BROADWAY ST., ORCUTT he happy hour at Rooney’s isn’t a happy hour per say—it’s a hoppy hour, like the hops that go into Rooney’s beers. Also, for most of the week, it’s not an hour: on Monday, it’s all day long (woo!). On Tuesday and Thursdays, it’s from 3 to 6 p.m. and 9 to 10 p.m. Only on Fridays and Saturdays does hoppy hour at Rooney’s downsize into a reasonable 9 to 10 p.m. time frame, thus making its name at least halfcorrect. Early reports indicate that hoppy hour is also happy. —Sean
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o t s n o i t a l u t a r g n o C ! s r e n n i W s ’ r a e Y s i h T
RUNNER-UP: SOUTH SIDE COFFEE COMPANY
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RUNNERS-UP (TIE): PEPPER GARCIA’S, SANTA MARIA BREWING COMPANY
~ BEST COFFEE SHOP ~
Rooney’s Irish Pub
241 BROADWAY ST., ORCUTT ooney’s is clean, softly lit, and conveniently located in Orcutt. It comes with the trappings of a pub, including a shepard’s pie, and has several several of Rooney’s own beers on tap. It’s got a big mural of a castle and some emerald hills, a gleaming
am so surprised but very happy,” Tims said. Kay’s definitely has Starbucks beat with its coffee blend—richly flavorful, smooth, and guaranteed to provide that “wake up” boost; be sure to ask for it with a touch of vanilla creamer. But according to Tims, what really brings people to her place for coffee is the atmosphere. The restaurant features an oldschool diner bar in country-kitchen copper where guests can sip coffee and watch the chefs prepare their food. “We are like a traditional cafe with good coffee where people can sit and sip a while,” Tims said. —Kristina
Kay’s Country Kitchen 135 E. CLARK AVE., ORCUTT ay Tims, owner of local dining favorite, Kay’s Country Kitchen was surprised when she found out her quaint pink and white painted restaurant was voted best coffee shop. “I definitely thought it would be Starbucks! I
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~ BEST SMOOTHIE ~
Blenders in the Grass 4854 S. BRADLEY ROAD, NO. F, SANTA MARIA ooking for fast food without the junk? Go for a nutritious and delicious smoothie prepared by the friendly blenditos at Blenders in the Grass. Started by three college guys into endurance sports (Art, Scott, and Keric), who wanted healthy, low-fat, high-energy meals, the first Blenders opened in Isla Vista in 1995. Boy, these smoothie kings sure know their smoothies, offering 28 choices! Go traditional with the Original (fresh OJ, strawberries, banana, non-fat frozen yogurt), or get creative and Build-a-Blender with your own concoction of juice, fruits, and frozen yogurt or sherbet. They’re all yummy and go down real smooth! —Ariel Waterman
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RUNNER-UP: WOODY’S YOGURT CAFE
700 E BOONE STREET SANTA MARIA, CA 93454
NOW OPEN! OPEN 10:00 A.M.- 6:00 P.M. MON-SAT
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! • FURNITURE • APPLIANCES • COLLECTIBLES • SPORTING GOODS • MUSIC • MOVIES
PICTU THE BE RE ST!
SantaMariaSun.com
• VIDEO GAMES • JEWELRY • GLASSWARE • ANTIQUES • THOUSANDS OF ITEMS TO CHOOSE FROM!
NEW ITEMS IN EVERY WEEK! www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 25
Arts&Entertainment
BestTER
LIVE THEA
The Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA) Castmates from Peter and the Starcatcher, Leo Cortez, George Walker, Jillian Osborne, Matt Koenig
26 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
BEST NEW CAR DEALERSHIP 14 YEARS IN A ROW
BEST USED CAR DEALERSHIP 13 OF LAST 14 YEARS
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 27
~ BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE ~
Rooney’s Irish Pub
241 BROADWAY ST., ORCUTT ooney’s has live music on the weekends, that much is certain. They have a regular cast of DJs and, on the weekend, give a space for aspiring emcees to get up onstage, spit a few verses, and (if they do really good!) drop the mic. The music is mostly house and hip-hop, which is perhaps a strange choice for an Irish Pub, but the house is always packed by midnight, so they give the people what they want. After 10 p.m. on the weekends, Rooney’s transforms, Cinderella-style, from pub to a club of strobe lights and bumpin’ beats. —Sean
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RUNNERS-UP (TIE): CHUMASH CASINO, SANTA MARIA FAIRPARK
~ BEST BAND OR MUSICIAN ~
Steppin’ Out
2435 EBONY ST., SANTA MARIA teppin’ Out, the Central Coast’s Finest Dance Band, began in 2009 as a collaboration between Junior Juanich and Mike Arriola. When asked what he believes the band’s success can be attributed to, Arriola, with sweet gratitude in his voice, explained, “We have a large following of loyal fans attending our shows, who I immediately started calling the Steppers. The Steppers have been loyal to us for six years. Eventually there were so many that I began calling them The Stepper Nation.” The band hopes to get as many people as possible Steppin’ Out onto the dance floor. —Chris White-Sanborn
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RUNNER-UP: DRIVE-IN ROMEOS
~ BEST PLACE TO BUY MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS ~
Owen’s Music
201 E. MAIN ST., SANTA MARIA enerations of musicians have purchased their first instrument at Owen’s Music in Santa Maria. Whether you need a brand new grand piano, a bajo sexto for your Mariachi group, or a concert instrument for the school band, Owen’s is the spot to view and try out instruments, and to chat with the experienced staff of musicians who can help you find what you need. Once you take your new instrument home and put some wear and tear into it with all your practicing, Owen’s is also the spot for all the accessories, sheet music, and even repairs that a well-used instrument requires. —Joe
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RUNNER-UP: COELHO MUSIC ACADEMY
~ BEST PHOTOGRAPHER ~
Luis Escobar, Reflections Photography Studio 2232 S. DEPOT ST., SUITE F, SANTA MARIA ocal photographer Luis Escobar of Reflections Photography Studio can’t remember a year he hasn’t won Best Photographer in the Sun’s annual readers poll, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t grateful for the distinction. “I want to thank the readers and people in the Santa Maria Valley for their ongoing trust and support,” he said. “I think that Santa Maria continues to be a good community because of the amount of locally owned, family-operated business that are here.” Reflections Photography Studio is no longer located at the historic home across the street from the Santa Maria Inn, Escobar said, but has moved to South Depot Street between McCoy and Betteravia in Santa Maria. —Joe
PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHASHI
CLASSIC: Jay Turner spotlights on 99.1 KXFM’s afternoons from 2 to 7 p.m. bringing the Central Coast what he calls “Real Rock:” a little bit of Led Zeppelin mixed with Billy Idol and The Cure
and, of course, his Best Radio Personality to go with it.
~ BEST ARTIST ~
PCPA The Pacific Conservatory Theatre
Margie Bowker MARGIESPALETTE.COM ocal artist Margie Bowker wasn’t always a local, she’s a transplant who was born and raised in South Africa where she received her artistic training. Well versed in oils, watercolor, and pastels, Bowker is hailed for the effortless style. “I am very fortunate in a way; I have a lot of variety,” Bowker told the Sun in late May of this year. “I love to wake up in the morning and think, ‘What am I going to do today?’” The answer is always “paint,” but Bowker stretches her skills across paintings of animals, florals, vineyards, African-inspired works, and, of course, her famous French ladies. —Joe
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RUNNER-UP: MINNIE ANDERSON
~ BEST PLACE TO VIEW ART ~
Santa Barbara County Fair SANTA MARIA FAIRPARK, 937 S. THORNBURG ST. uring the early 20th century, art collector Gertrude Stein would dig through bargain bins at Parisian galleries, purchasing early works by then unknown painters Picasso and Matisse. Whether your tastes run to paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, woodwork, or textiles, the Arts Pavilion at the Santa Maria FairPark is the place to view works by local artists each year during the Santa Barbara County Fair. Who knows what masterpieces by a budding Picasso you may see there? —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: SANTA MARIA PUBLIC LIBRARY
~ BEST COMMUNITY FESTIVAL ~
Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival
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~ BEST LIVE THEATER ~
937 S. THORNBURG ST., SANTA MARIA, CA he Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival was planted more than 25 years ago, originating with small festivals of local growers. And boy, did it grow! This family-oriented experience now often pulls in as many as 50,000 attendees! With various unique foods, cooking demos, fun activities, and, of course, fresh, plentiful strawberries, this Central Coast staple continues to be a delicious jewel on the crown of the valley. It can sometimes be easy to take a long-standing tradition for granted, but the representative speaking on behalf of the festival proudly declared “We are excited to win Best [Community] Festival once again.” —Chris
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RUNNER-UP: SANTA BARBARA COUNTY FAIR
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SANTA MARIA, SOLVANG CPA The Pacific Conservatory Theatre can’t dim any house lights when its current production begins. Why? Well, because the Solvang Festival Theater is outdoors, and the venue dims as the sun sets over the amphitheatre where Man of La Mancha just closed and Peter and the Starcatcher currently shows. The tapering natural light reveals more of the expert lighting that illuminates the stage and accents the incredible sets, the beautiful costumes, and the supremely talented performers. The same magical feeling is always found in the Marian Theatre—where Other Desert Cities will show Sept. 18 through Oct. 3—and the Severson Theater, both at Allan Hancock College, where the historic conservatory was born. —Joe
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RUNNER-UP: SANTA MARIA CIVIC THEATRE
~ BEST MUSEUM/LEARNING CENTER ~
Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum
705 S. MCCLELLAND ST., SANTA MARIA anta Barbara County is not wanting for fantastic museums, but it’s the county’s only children’s museum, the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum, that beat out all the others for the top spot. It’s because the museum serves as a backbone of the Santa Maria Valley and the surrounding areas, namely families, that the museum is a popular success, explained Executive Director Chris Slaughter. “We love our families; they are what make us vital and exciting and fun,” she said. “We’re a wonderful place for families to interact, work, learn, and have fun together with our exhibits and programs.” —Joe
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RUNNER-UP: NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF SANTA MARIA
~ BEST RADIO STATION ~
MEGA 97.1
718 E. CHAPEL ST., SANTA MARIA perating at a frequency of 97.1 megahertz, Mega 97.1 FM radio station holds the “rhythm of the Central Coast,” playing the best R&B and old-school hits on the planet. Besides broadcasting today’s music, listeners enjoy
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hearing the on-air personalities such as Tuco and Denis “Catfish” Miller. The station is known for its constant giveaways. Keep an eye out for the yellow tent and the huge MEGA 97.1 logo, and you know you’re in for a special treat. The station has a free smartphone app that plugs into an Internet live-stream if you happen to be out of the coverage area. —David
RUNNER-UP: 95.7 THE BEAT
~ BEST RADIO PERSONALITY ~
Jay Turner
99.1 KXFM RADIO nce upon a time, a young radio DJ left Providence, R.I., to visit Pismo Beach. Jay Turner fell in love with the Central Coast and never left, taking a job at El Dorado Broadcasters with KSLY. He later transitioned to Sunny Country and, since 2013, has been program director at KFXM and its afternoon host, presenting “Real Rock for the Central Coast,” weekday afternoons. “I love doing debaucherous rock and roll!” Turner said, “I know it sounds corny and schlocky, but I also love the people, especially when they come up to me and share their stories and experiences.” He’s all about community and rock ’n’ roll and that’s what makes him the people’s choice! Rock on, Jay! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: DENIS “CATFISH” MILLER
~ BEST TV PERSONALITY ~
Dave Hovde
KSBY nergetic, interactive, and just plain fun, Meteorologist Dave Hovde has a great time while keeping viewers informed. Whether reporting from inside the studio or broadcasting live at local events from football games to the fair, he said the Central Coast is exactly where he wants to be working and raising his children. “It’s different every day, and there’s so much energy going on in our local area,” Hovde said. “It’s a great fit for me. The Central Coast is nurturing, safe, creative, and I think it’s one of the best places in the world to work. I really enjoy what I do, and I couldn’t be happier that people are having fun with me.” —Meagan
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RUNNER-UP: JEANETTE TROMPETER
Monday - Thursday
2 for 1 Breakfast Specials with the purchase of 2 drinks
from 8:00 - 11:30am For a limited time only.
1130 E. Clark Ave. #160, Orcutt, CA (805) 938-7958 Monday thru Fridays 9am-9pm Saturday 8am-9am & Sunday 8am-8pm
THANK YOU! to ALL our loyal customers in Orcutt & Santa Maria for VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST!
Runner Up
BEST TACO and BEST SALSA
Winner 8 Years In A Row! 2015 WINNER Best Place for Skin Care
Call Today 928-1000
Gift Certificates Available
Dr. Michael W. Moats is a board-certified dermatologist who has been serving the Santa Maria Valley for over 30 years. Moats Laser and Skin Care customizes each treatment to your specific needs, performed by a highly-trained, caring team of professionals. Michael W. Moats, MD Board Certified Dermatologist www.moatslaser.com 805.928.1000 525 E. Plaza Drive Ste. 200 All major credit cards accepted . Interest-free financing available
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 29
Thank you for voting us the BEST Hispanic Market 4 years in a row! Vallarta offers the following departments: • Full and Self Service Meat (Carniceria) - Wide variety of beef, pork, and chicken
• Deli • Produce • Bakery
• Seafood
(Panaderia)
• Fresh-made Tortillas
• Grocery
(Tortilleria)
• Mexican Kitchen (Taqueria)
• Specialty Foods
• La Isla (The Island) -
• Health & Beauty Care & General Merchandise
Hot foods with an in-store dining area
Aguas Frescas/Drinks, Ice Cream, Juice Bar/Jugos Frescos/ Atoles y Champurrados
from Mexico, Central & South America
• Cremeria
(Salsas, yogurts, Latin style cheeses, store prepared “chorizo”) Sliced deli meats
For more information visit: www.vallartasupermarkets.com A SUPERMARKET FOR ALL FAMILIES! VALLARTA #21 1050 South “A” Street Oxnard, CA (805) 240-1400
VALLARTA #31 1875 N. Broadway Blvd Santa Maria, CA (805) 349-9490
30 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
BROADWAY PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER 1482 S Broadway Santa Maria, CA (805) 349-1111
VALLARTA #44 2690 N. Vineyard Ave Oxnard, CA (805) 983-3403
BurninCash
Copper Coffin Tattoo
Jimmy Coffin, Daisy Franco, Vinny Rucobo, Todd Badrak, Alex Higgins (owner)
BestGET
PLACE TO A TATTOO
BestGET
PLACE TO CING A BODY PIER
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 31
PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHASHI
SHOP IT UP: Deasee’s Design is full of original items, cowboy chic, mod styles, and almost every size imaginable. A quick trip to Orcutt could lead to a closet full of new styles from the Best Clothing Store.
BEST CLOTHING STORE
Deasee’s Designs Boutique 156 BROADWAY ST., ORCUTT ive years ago, mother-and-daughter pair Terri and Emily Deasee were busy hand making and selling jewelry. Their side business started small until sales exploded. With the popularity of their products increasing, Terri joined with Meghan Rimrodt to open Deasee’s Designs Boutique in Orcutt. Rimrodt, who’s been managing the store for five years this October, said what makes their boutique unique is the wide variety of items they have to choose from. But what Rimrodt really wants people to know is that they carry sizes for everyone—jeans from size 0 to 22 and sizes all the way to 3x, as well as junior-sized items. And much of it is locally made. “We want to make sure everyone feels cared for, confident, and leaves feeling better and more beautiful than when they came in,” she said. —Kristina
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BEST PLACE TO BUY KIDS’ CLOTHES
Sandbox Kids
Déjà vu Antiques
142 TOWN CENTER EAST, SANTA MARIA ooking for something a little more fashion forward for your munchkins? Head over to Sandbox Kids for the latest in toddler togs and child chic. The store carries everything cute from Charlie Rocket and Joe’s Jeans to Splendid Littles and Little Mass and Kickee Pants. Whether dressing up for a special event, or going casual for school, come play in Sandbox Kids. Your little princes or princesses will look stylish, and the clothes are durable for those play dates in the sand. —Ariel
315 BROADWAY ST., ORCUTT endy Steller and her husband, the masterminds behind Old Town Market, opened up Déjà Vu antiques two years ago. “I love antiques, and I love the people that are involved with them,” she said. You can buy pieces there from more than 30 different collectors—a great place to shop if you’re looking for something that’s not brand new, be it in top shape or not, industrial, vintage, or primitive. “I’m overwhelmed with happiness and pride, and I can’t thank [my customers] enough for supporting me over the years,” she said. “This is amazing.” —Sean
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RUNNER-UP:COMPANY’S COMING
RUNNER-UP: PARALLEL EDIT
BEST PLACE TO BUY EYEWEAR
Lens Masters of Orcutt
1140 E. CLARK AVE., SUITE 160, ORCUTT oor vision is curse enough. If you wear glasses and have been to a 3-D movie, you know that much is true. Having to deal with the hassle of getting new glasses and contacts is just another of those little annoyances that come along with bad eyesight. Luckily, Lens Masters of Orcutt solves one of those problems. For 15 years, owner Eric Bartell has been providing the Santa Maria community with expert customer service and the latest in eyeglass, contact, and optical care options. “Customer service, first and foremost,” he said. “We also have the ability to make glasses on site.” With the latest frames and the best in care, it’s clear they are the masters. —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: NG & NG DENTAL & EYECARE
BEST ANTIQUE SHOP
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BEST FLOWER SHOP
Rose of Sharon Florist 703 EAST MAIN ST., SANTA MARIA his local purveyor of posies has been pushing daisies since 1981, when it first opened in the Ruffoni Building on West Church Street. Owners Ron and Mia Rose are no wallflowers! They will fulfill your floral visions for special occasions from proms to weddings and birthdays to funerals, with consummate service and gorgeous arrangements. The place is lovely inside—open, airy, and charming. They also carry an assortment of balloons and cards with a private niche where you can write a personal message. The next time you want to rise to the occasion with roses, visit or call Rose of Sharon. They’re bloomin’ terrific! —Ariel
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BEST THRIFT STORE
RUNNER-UP: T&T SWEET REPEATS
RUNNER-UP: FLOWER CARRIAGE & GIFTS
VTC Thrift Store
BEST FABRIC STORE
BEST BOOKSTORE
SANTA MARIA, LOMPOC here is nothing like coming across a terrific find for a great price at a thrift store. VTC Thrift’s two stores are prime locations for treasure hunts. You’ll find bargains on everything from clothing and accessories, jewelry, furniture and linens, kitchen and baby items, toys, games, and even musical instruments. Check out Monday Madness at the Santa Maria Store and Wacky Wednesday in Lompoc for 30 percent off everything. Senior and military discounts are offered every day. The best part is the stores are run by VTC Enterprises, providing lifeskills services for adults with developmental disabilities since 1961, making them a real community treasure! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: NEW IMAGE
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Betty’s Fabrics
1627 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA used to make all of my clothes and loved idling a day away in a fabric store. I now enjoy making quilts and could spend hours touching, matching, and selecting the palette for my latest creations. There’s no better place to do this than at Betty’s Fabrics. They cater to all of your sewing needs, and the lovely ladies who cut the fabric for you are also treasure troves of information, sharing tips and suggestions. Betty’s carries the latest in patterns, has all your sewing notions covered, and stocks a wonderful array of yarns, beads, and craft supplies. They are just sew wonderful! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: JO-ANN FABRIC & CRAFT
The Bookworm 230 E. BETTERAVIA, SANTA MARIA he Bookworm is a small, locally owned shop in a strip mall and a city that often feel dominated by chain stores. You can buy used books there, as it’s been since day one, and now you can buy some new books, too: There’s more for kids and young adults, there’s manga, and there are local authors. “We’ve added on things that we thought would be good for the community, good for the shop,” said Darin Gable, who bought the place in 2012 after shopping there for years. “Things just kind of fell together, and here were are.” —Sean
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RUNNERS-UP (TIE): THE BOOKSTORE (LOMPOC), THE LIBRARY SHOP (SANTA MARIA PUBLIC LIBRARY) BEST OF continued page 35
Thank you for your votes! Best Flower Shop
Look for the
red carriage out front!
Distinctive Floral Designs & Gifts Since 1977
805-922-0578 · FlowerCarriage.net 2 2 55 S out h Br o a dw ay, S a nt a M a r i a
“THANK YOU to all of our wonderful customers, you make this so fun!! We appreciate every one of you!”
156 B S. Broadway Orcutt, CA 93455
805-332-3152 www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 33
Since 2002, we’ve sought to bring innovative design and expert construction to all of our projects. Because of you, we’re now one of the county’s largest builders. We are blessed to have honest, hard-working, talented subcontractors and vendors to partner with us. A superior staff. And clients who trust us to do, what we truly love. Thank you for honoring us!
Introducing two, new communities in Buellton & Nipomo:
Zaca Creek Country Estates B U E L L T O N
ZacaCreekLiving.com
H A L S E L L B U I L D E R S . C O M
MadsFarm.com Inc / Lic #783341 34 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
BEST BIKE SHOP
BEST OF from page 32
Leisure Time Games
159 TOWN CENTER EAST, SANTA MARIA inally! Nerds are cool, thanks to The Big Bang Theory. The games they play are also cool, from Dungeons and Dragons to Rock, Paper, Scissors, Lizard, Spock! The coolest nerds know that Leisure Time Games is the place to connect with fellow players, and have fun. Owner Kenneth John Guge III turned his hobby into a life vocation. He carries a terrific selection of games and holds community tournaments and Games Days, including the three-day CENCON convention. My theory is that local gameplaying aficionados will get a big bang out of Leisure Time Games! —Ariel
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Toy Zoo & Anything Educational, Too
1930 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA here does teacher curriculum nestle up against model-making kits and games like Destiny Gundam? The Toy Zoo & Anything Educational, Too. “This toy store is absolutely wonderful! They have so many unique toys that you can’t find anywhere else,” wrote Lorie Emm in a Facebook review. With upside down animal umbrellas hanging from the sealing, remote control airplanes waiting to be f lown around, colorful workbooks and posters for classrooms, and that model car desperate for kid hands to do the building, I’d say the customer’s always right. —Camillia Lanham
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RUNNER-UP: JAMIE’S GAMES & COMICS
BEST PLACE TO BUY ELECTRONICS
Main Street Cycles 311 E. MAIN ST., SANTA MARIA ll dedicated cyclists know where to go when their bike is sick; all Central Coast cyclists know to head over to Main Street Cycles. They have professional mechanics to amp up your riding experience. Newbies are also welcomed; they can personally fit you to the perfect bike so you can ride around town like a million bucks. Tony Gamberutti, co-manager and founder of the Righetti mountain bike team, said that they are “100 percent supportive of all the local teams.” After all, they have been here for 28 years and counting, and the Central Coast has definitely lauded them as their most trusted bike shop. —Annie
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BEST PLACE TO REPAIR A COMPUTER
Abro Computers
BEST OUTDOOR/SPORTS EQUIPMENT STORE
Play It Again Sports
2530 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA ou can argue which sport trumps all others, (ahem, soccer), but you can’t argue that Play It Again Sports isn’t the best outdoor and sports equipment store because the ref’s decision stands. I mean, the Santa Maria community has spoken. Manager Zack Graham said it’s the customer service that helps the store win over athletes. “We just try to be as helpful as we can and make everyone feel comfortable,” he said. That includes making the store a one-stop shop for sports like football, golf, disc-golf, baseball, surfing, and more. “If it’s sports-related, we try to sell it,” Graham said. —Shelly
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RUNNER-UP: COMPUTER DOCTOR
Featuring David Studwell as Don Quixote
Written by Dale Wasserman. Music by Mitch Leigh. Lyrics by Joe Darion. Original Production Staged by Albert Marre. Originally Produced by Albert W. Selden & Hal James.
Aug 21 - Sep 13
“a wildly funny adventure!”
Solvang FeStival theater
The Tribune
The madcap prequel To peTer pan
RUNNERS-UP (TIE): MAIN STREET CYCLERY, ONE WAY BOARDSHOP
BEST BANK OR CREDIT UNION
Coast Hills Credit Union LOMPOC, NIPOMO, ORCUTT, SANTA MARIA, VANDENBERG AFB AND VILLAGE stablished in 1958 to serve military families at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Coast Hills Credit Union has long been an integral part of community outreach. This hometown credit union promotes community education and involvement, aiding local food banks and the Children’s Miracle Network. They live up to their slogan, “Bank among friends,” and their goal, “to serve all of our members well, including those of modest means.” The courteous, professional staff works closely with customers to meet their financial requirements and provide personal and business financial services and solutions. When it comes to lower loan rates, higher earnings on savings, and free or low-cost financial services, you can bank on Coast Hills Credit Union. —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: COMMUNITY BANK OF SANTA MARIA
BEST ATTORNEY
David Bixby
937 E. MAIN ST., SUITE 206, SANTA MARIA ttorney David Bixby has made a name for himself on the Central Coast as a criminal defense lawyer throughout the years. The Chicago transplant has represented various alleged criminals, including gang members. Bixby was one of the six lawyers on the defense
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BEST OF continued page 37
A play by Rick Elice. Based on the novel by Dave Barry & Ridley Pearson. Music by Wayne Barker. Originally produced on Broadway by Nancy Nagel Gibbs, Greg Schaffert, Eva Price, Tom Smedes, and Disney Theatrical Productions.
TickeTs 922-8313 | box office 12:30-7pm wed-sun | pcpa.org
LUCKY
7U ANNUAL th
IMES M SIC AW NEW T music to all ears ARDS
PRESENTED BY
AWARDS & SHOWCASE
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER
Doors 6:30pm · Show 7pm
FREMONT THEATRE tickets $10
NEWTIMESSLO.COM/NTMA.PHP
•Save the date•
MOBILE SERVICE, 928-3888 ou’re in the middle of a typing a report that’s saved to your desktop, and your computer crashes. What could be better than having a service technician delivered right to your door? Abro Computers is a completely mobile, professional service that will either fix your equipment in your own home or office or arrange for pickup and delivery. When you’re already bummed about a broken computer, you shouldn’t have to wait in a long line for customer service. Abro will provide you with quality service in the comfort of your own home or office, making the best use of your precious time! —Annie
July 17- AuguSt 16 LAST WEEKEND! SolvAng FeStivAl theAter
RUNNERS-UP (TIE): CENTRAL COAST CYCLERY, PEDAL POWER BICYCLES
Electronic Parts Store (Santa Maria)
1403 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA f you ask owner Miguel Sanchez what distinguishes his Electronic Parts Store from others in the area, his answer is as simple as it gets: “We’re the only ones.” When the Electronic Parts Supermart closed in 2014 after 35 years of business, Sanchez swept in and took over, opening his store in January. For years, he’d been a technician and a client of the Supermart. Now, he offers all the necessary tools and customer service for the trade—cables, transistors, switches. They may be the only ones, but they’re also the best ones. —Jessica
“it is nothing less than magnificent magnificent!”Santa Maria Times
•Save the date•
BEST GAMERS STORE (TIE)
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 35
Dr. Daniel Ng and Staff
would like to thank our patients for voting us
THE BEST DENTIST IN NORTHERN SANTA BARBARA COUNTY!
Serving the central coast for over 25 years
NG & NG DENTAL & EYE CARE CENTER 610 E Chapel St Santa Maria, CA Suite A&B 805-928-0363
We Mustache You a Question.... Who’s been voted Best Plumber 9 Years in a Row?
Jack’s All -American! 24/7 Plumbing and Repairs (805) 925-0199
jacksplumbing.net Like us on Facebook!
36 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
BEST OF from page 35 team for the U-Haul murder case, giving tough cross-examinations to witnesses who testified against his client, David Maldonado. Don’t waste Bixby’s time calling him to get out of a speeding ticket. But if you ever find yourself with a firstdegree murder charge, he’ll give you the best criminal defense money can buy. —David
RUNNER-UP: MICHAEL B. CLAYTON
And it all started with a gas station. Owner Cameron Stephens said he and his father strive for personalized service that customers can’t get at the big-box stores like Costco. And the local employees they hire stick with them for years, so when a customer comes back, they recognize the people who are helping them. Stephens said that’s what sets them apart, plus they are super involved with the community. “We spend our free time giving back to the community, and, in turn, the community supports us.” —Camillia
BEST AUTO REPAIR
RUNNER-UP: CALDERON TIRES & SERVICE
931 S. BLOSSER ROAD, SANTA MARIA e’re just good,” Pat Nicoll said with a “ laugh when explaining why his auto shop has the reputation it does—which is the best, by the way. But seriously: “It boils down to a personal level,” he said. His shop treats customers like family, and that’s why they keep going back for mechanical work on their domestic or Asian-made vehicles. Nicoll said he’s had some customers for 30 years. And then their kids become clients. Now, an auto shop’s got to be good with that kind of track record. Having repeat customers for three decades is an endorsement if I ever heard one. —Camillia
BEST CAR WASH
Pat’s Automotive
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RUNNER-UP: BUSH’S AUTOMOTIVE
BEST AUTO DEALERSHIP/NEW
Toyota Scion of Santa Maria
700 E. BETTERAVIA ROAD, SANTA MARIA oyota Scion of Santa Maria’s boasted many honors for its service. For example, over the past 12 years, the dealership has won the prestigious Toyota President’s Award—given annually—a whopping 11 times. This means that Toyota Material Handling U.S.A. considers it to be in the top 20 percent of its dealers nationwide. This all seems in line with the dealership’s mission statement: “To consistently exceed the expectations of our customers and employees so that Toyota of Santa Maria is recognized as the dealership and employer of choice on the Central Coast.” —Chris
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BEST AUTO DEALERSHIP/USED
Splash ’n’ Dash
SANTA MARIA, ORCUTT nyone can wash a car, but if it was easy to do it right, everyone would do it. That’s where the Splash ’n’ Dash car wash comes in. They do it right, and, according to Mark Betts—who started his wash in Santa Maria 12 years ago—his machines reuse a portion of the water used on each vehicle. A plus at a time when Betts said most people don’t wash their cars at home anymore. His partial gray water and drought-friendly carwash and the pointed attention to customer service has continued increasing Betts’ customer base even through the dry years and caused him to open the door on his newest location in Orcutt three years ago. —Camillia
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BEST PLACE TO FILL UP YOUR CAR
Orcutt 76
100 E. CLARK AVE., SANTA MARIA et’s face it, with gas prices the way they are these days it’s hard to feel good about filling up, so the extras go a long way. A clean atmosphere and friendly service is a welcome sight when you are travel weary and need to make a pit stop. You can even get your car smogged if you need it. Even if you just need fuel to run errands around town, Orcutt 76 has been filling tanks and providing great service in Old Orcutt for 60 years. —Shelly
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RUNNER-UP: CHEVRON (NIPOMO)
RUNNER-UP: SANTA MARIA WASH N LUBE
BEST OF continued page 39
Thank you! The Staff, Management & Board of Directors would like to thank the community for their votes! RUNNER UP Best Live Music Venue Santa Maria Fairpark
WINNER Best Community Festival Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival
Toyota Scion of Santa Maria
700 E. BETTERAVIA ROAD, SANTA MARIA oyota Scion of Santa Maria’s commitment to helpfulness extends beyond what occurs in the store. When poking about the dealership’s website, for example, a link can be found to its blog with entries ranging from advice on routine maintenance to articles about new road statistics or company history available for anyone’s perusal. That strong desire to help could be heard reflected in the various enthused responses of the team on hearing they’d won Best Ofs this year, from an immediate “Yay!” to “That tells me in the community that we are doing the right thing.” —Chris
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WINNER Best Place to View Art RUNNER UP Best Community Festival Santa Barbara County Fair
RUNNER-UP: HOME MOTORS
BEST PLACE TO BUY TIRES
Santa Maria Tire
SANTA MARIA, NIPOMO, PASO ROBLES, SLO, ARROYO GRANDE, OXNARD elebrating 70 years in 2016, Santa Maria Tire now has six locations on the Central Coast.
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www.santamariafairpark.com www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 37
Best Flower Shop
Daily Specials S U N DAY
Asada, Pastor or Carnitas Tacos only $1.00
M O N DAY
for voting us one of u o y k n t Tha
Combo Chile Verde or Chile Rojo with 16oz drink – $4.99
T U E S DAY
5 Enchiladas Chicken or Cheese with 16oz drink – $4.99
W E D N E S DAY
Burrito Asada with 16oz drink – $4.49
T H U R S DAY
Chicken Flautas with 16oz drink – $4.99
F R I DAY
Combo Asada Quesadilla with 16oz drink – $4.99
S A T U R DAY
Asada Torta wth 16oz drink – $4.49
M a S t E r F LO r I S t FtD Quality Star Florist ros.florist/Sun 703 E Main Street · Santa Maria
(805) 925-3803 Thank you for voting for us for Best Hispanic Market! Thank you for continuing to vote us one of the Best Authentic Mexican Food Restaurants, Best Burrito, and Best Taco for 15 years!
2015 WINNER: BEST TACO! AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD FAMILY RESTAURANT SINCE 1964
(805) 922-9000 1138 W Church St., Santa Maria
“One of Santa Maria’s Finest”
Bes t Bes t of
Santa Maria Valley
of
Santa Maria Valley
WINNER
1640 BROADWAY SANTA MARIA
FOOD TO GO
925-8519 AIR CONDITIONED
38 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
OPEN 7 DAYS 11am - 9pm SUN 10am - 9pm
PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHAS
BEST OF from page 37
BEST PLACE FOR AN OIL CHANGE
Santa Maria Wash N Lube
2301 S. BROADWAY AND 629 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA here can you go get an oil change with a 17-point inspection for under $30 (and the oil pan plug is put back in with the specified torque)? Two places! Both of which are Santa Maria Wash N Lube. And you can get in and out in under an hour; sometimes it’s even quicker than that. But wait, there’s more: including tire rotation, tranny and AC maintenance, batteries, and fuel injection service. Plus, you can get your vehicle a nice rub down or a detail. Need to get smogged. Check. What’s the best part: It’s family-owned and operated. —Camillia
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RUNNER-UP: ORCUTT 76
BEST VETERINARIAN
All Valley Pet Hospital
230 E. BETTERAVIA RD., SANTA MARIA wner and veterinarian Dr. Martin Vale has been attending to animals for 50 years. His wife, Valerie, trains dogs, and they have four of their own. He opened All Valley Pet Hospital in 1984, and his staff will treat you and your pet like family in a comfortable environment. This full-service veterinary hospital provides urgent, surgical, and dental care, plus wellness exams, vaccinations, and geriatric pet care. The spay and neuter clinic offers reduced rates every Wednesday, and Dr. Vale also provides holistic medicine and chiropractic care for dogs and cats. He is an invaluable resource on puppy care and socialization, and that’s the cat’s meow! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: ANIMAL CLINIC OF SANTA MARIA
PANTENE FOR PETS: What dog doesn’t like a good rub down? And although all dogs don’t like a good scrub down, Dog-Gone Gorgeous is the spot to do both. It’s the Best Place to
BEST OF continued page 40
Pamper Your Pet.
For Voting Us Best Place to Buy Tires
COMMERCIAL El Rio/Oxnard 249 Montgomery Ave. (805) 642-0174 (805) 656-6077
Goleta/ Santa Barbara (805) 964-4863
Santa Maria/ Nipomo 2170 Hutton Rd., Nipomo (805) 928-2501
AUTOMOTIVE CARE CAR LIGHT TRUCK SUV Paso Robles 130 Easy St. #4 (805) 466-6224
San Luis Obispo 219 Tank Farm Rd. (805) 543-4780
Santa Maria 119 W Betteravia (805) 922-4557
Arroyo Grande 1270 E Grand Ave. (805) 473-1337
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 39
BEST PLACE TO GET A BODY PIERCING
BEST OF from page 39
BEST PLACE TO PAMPER YOUR PET
Dog-Gone Gorgeous
149 SOUTH 1ST ST., ORCUTT s your mutt matted? Is your yorkie looking yucky? Does your shih tzu look like shih tzu? Bring them to Dog-Gone Gorgeous! The name of this place says it all! Professional stylists will bathe, detangle, groom, and pamper your pooch in this full service salon. Hey, we are talking about dogs, right? You bet your Snausages we are! Your pet will leave looking, smelling, and feeling fresh and fantastic! Prices are affordable and the terrific staff will treat your furry baby like it’s their very own. Pardon my saying so, but Dog-Gone Gorgeous is the cat’s pajamas! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: LUCKY DOG PET RESORT
BEST PLACE TO GET A TATTOO
Copper Coffin Tattoo
104 W. CHAPEL ST., SANTA MARIA hough Copper Coffin Tattoo founder Jimmy Coffin no longer owns the shop, he still works there, explained current owner Alex Higgins. “We go way back,” Higgins said. “We’ve been tattooing together for 20 years.” The Santa Maria tattoo parlor is known for high quality art across several styles, from traditional tats to Japanese sleeves. The parlor is well known among the servicemen and women from Vandenberg, Higgins explained, so much so that Copper Coffin offers a free shuttle service back and forth from the base on Saturdays. Between Higgins, Coffin, and tattoo artists Vinny Rucobo and Daisy Franco, the parlor has more than 50 years of experience both tattooing and finding people the perfect tat, Higgins said. —Joe
Copper Coffin Tattoo
104 W. CHAPEL ST., SANTA MARIA opper Coffin Tattoo’s resident body piercer Todd Badrak said that the numerous Best Of awards that hang on his wall can often help calm any anxious customers queasy about the process. “I have them all put up right in my station,” he said. “It helps people feel a little better.” Badrak pierces just about any part of the body, including lips, ears, eyebrows, nipples, genitalia, the tongue, and nose. He also does sub-dermal implants, the little gems that appear to be imbedded in the skin. “Those are some of my favorites to do because they look nice pretty much wherever you put them on the body,” he said. “You can get some pretty wild outcomes with that.” —Joe
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RUNNER-UP: RAW VIOLETS
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RUNNER-UP: UPPER ROOM TATTOO COMPANY
BEST HARDWARE STORE
Miner’s Ace Hardware 553 W. TEFFT ST., NIPOMO hether indoors or in my garden, I’m always looking for new ways to spruce up the place. My favorite spot for spotting great deals on home and garden supplies is Miner’s Ace Hardware. What started as a small hardware store by brothers Lee and Glenn Miner in 1964, Miner’s has long been a community fixture for fixer-uppers and do-it-yourselfers. You’ll find lumber, paint, tools, plumbing supplies, and more for your home along with helpful, friendly, knowledgeable staff. Miner’s Ace Hardware has
a great selection of plants and decor for your garden, and their affordable prices and rewards program mean you won’t get hosed! Miner’s is Aces in my book! —Ariel
RUNNER-UP: OAK KNOLLS HARDWARE
BEST NURSERY
Old Town Garden Center ORCUTT, NIPOMO s everything coming up weeds instead of roses in your yard? Visit the Old Town Garden Center where owners David and Veronica Curiel are on a mission to help wood-be gardeners and old hands get down and dirty! The Curiels have more than 20 years of nursery experience and they know plants. “We love plants,” Veronica says. “It’s what we really enjoy.” And it shows! Their wide selection of plants is arranged in pots along pathways to show how they might look, not in uninspiring rows of pony-packs. The knowledgeable staff will help realize your secret garden vision and share tips to conserve water with drought-tolerant plants and succulents. That’s a rosy view I can dig! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: WHISPERING PINES LANDSCAPE SUPPLY
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Now Accepting Enrollment Applications
for the 2015–2016 School Year SCHOOL BEGINS AUGUST 31, 2015 Olive Grove Charter School: A TK–12 charter school dedicated to providing quality education in an independent study/home school setting • Tuition-Free Public School Program • Structured Independent Study/Home School Program • Dual Enrollment with Cuesta, Santa Barbara City College and AHC College Courses • A-G Approved (CollegePrep) Coursework • Credit Recovery Courses • One on One Weekly Appointments with Assigned Teacher • Academic Support Classes for Enhanced Student Success • Learning Center Locations in Santa Barbara, Lompoc, Santa Maria, and New Cuyama with future locations planned for San Luis Obispo County
www.OliveGroveCharter. com
Please contact our main office at 805-623-1111 for more information or to schedule an enrollment appointment.
40 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Santa Maria 1605 S. MILLER ST., SUITE 101, SANTA MARIA inding a house is a lot like an expedition through the backwoods of Alaska. Never go it alone. You could wind up with a haunted former
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brothel or, worse, something beige. Thankfully, Berkshire Hathaway has all the hookups to ease the process of purchasing real estate. Formerly Prudential, Berkshire Hathaway maintains all the resources of a large company (up-to-date online listings, extensive data, a broad network) with the 10-plus years expertise of more than 25 local agents. “Santa Maria is a small community,” branch manager Pat O’ Brien said. “Everywhere, you run into someone you know. Our agents really like that.” —Jessica
RUNNER-UP: KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY SANTA MARIA
BEST MOVING COMPANY
Meathead Movers
3600 HIGUERA ST., SLO, SERVICING THE CENTRAL COAST rom the start, Meathead Movers has been a moving company operated and staffed by student-athletes working their way through school. Now, nearly two decades and four offices later, the popular moving company with 100 percent money back guarantee continues to be a local favorite. Founders, innovators, and brothers Aaron and Evan Steed have witnessed steady growth in their company, so much so that they are hoping to double their staff by adding 200 employees to the payroll by the year’s end. The Steeds’ vision of “young and energetic student-athletes delivering a unique customer service” continues to be played out daily by their “professional trained, clean cut” employees. —Meagan
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RUNNER-UP: PODS BEST OF continued page 42
STUDENT GUIDE Get Schooled
BE A PART OF THE EQUATION
114,000 copies of Student Guide 2015 will be distributed to maximize its effectiveness with the student bodies of both Cal Poly and Cuesta College. It will be everywhere you �ind students— on campus and in town. This is the student-based publication that is wanted, read, and kept by these young adults.
Book your ad by
PUBLICATION DATE
9-3-15 9-10-15 advertising@newtimesslo.com
805.546.8208
newtimesslo.com advertising@santamariasun.com
805.347.1968
santamariasun.com
· Corporate Events · Private Parties · Weddings · Clubs
Thank you for your support!
Voted Best DJ Back to Back! 2014 & 2015
Zapp Laurel
djzapp805
805-714-3628
djzapp805 @gmail.com
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 41
ORCUTT In Old Town Orcutt
THANK YOU! Sun readers for voting for
ORCUTT 76!
BEST OF from page 1
BEST LANDSCAPER
Nishimori Landscape and Design 807 S. BLOSSER ROAD, SANTA MARIA hen he was younger, Jim Nishimori knew what he wanted out of a job. Or, more to the matter, what he didn’t want. “I just liked being outside,” he said. “I couldn’t stand being in an office all day.” That passion for the outdoors has been at the core of his landscaping business for almost 25 years. Since 1991, Nishimori and his staff have been improving the outdoor aesthetics of Santa Maria residences with attention to detail and an elegant sense of style. Need a tranquil f lower garden? Cozy cobblestone pathways? A patio for parties? Nishimori Landscape and Design makes the outdoors that much more enjoyable. —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: CARMEN HERNANDEZ LANDSCAPING
BEST PLUMBER
Jack’s All-American Plumbing 2011 PREISKER LANE, SANTA MARIA he name is no mistake. Jack’s All-American Plumbing is about as all-American as you can get without a Bald Eagle as your mascot. It’s a mom-and-pop shop, opened in 1991 by husband-and-wife team Jack and Becky Bingham. Since then, they and their trusty team of plumbers have been providing the Santa Maria area with consistent, thorough, and friendly customer service—the kind of service that’s won them the title of Best Plumber nine years running. “It’s all about customer service and quality work,” Becky told the Sun. “You really have to stand behind what you do and be proud of what you do. We make [the customer] a priority.” —Jessica
T Steve, Bill, Dena, Mark & Chris
937-5340 100 E. Clark Ave
RUNNER-UP: LANINI’S PLUMBING & HEATING REPAIRS
BEST ELECTRICIAN
Ever-Ready Electric 1010 W. BETTERAVIA, SUITE F, SANTA MARIA f you need electrical service, repairs, or installations in your home, office, or industrial plant, Ever-Ready Electric owners Frank and Pat Culley say they should be your only phone call. The business specializes in General Electric troubleshooting and is an authorized dealer for Kohler and Generac backup generators. “Safety and dependability are our top priorities, and we employ the best and the brightest certified electricians and secretarial staff. The electrical service business is our only business, and we take it seriously,” Pat wrote in a bio sent to the Sun. Plus, they provide emergency services 24-7. Who you gonna call? —Camillia
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WINNER! Best place to fill up your car
RUNNER-UP: SMITH ELECTRIC SERVICE
BEST HOME SERCURITY Best place for an oil change
42 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
Smith’s Alarms & Electronics
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1240 GRACE LANE, NIPOMO know you’ve seen their big red vehicles driving around town with telltale ladders
strapped on top. There’s got to be a good reason. Smith’s Alarms & Electronics calls itself a “one-stop security shop” on its website. And they do more than alarm systems—fire systems, door access, intercom systems, video surveillance, home theaters, and the best invention ever, central vacuum systems. Who doesn’t want to plug a hose into the wall, turn on the suction, and not deal with emptying the bag? The business also does free security evaluations on all the systems it installs just to ensure the security is working as it should. No burglars allowed. —Camillia
RUNNER-UP: ADT SECURITY SYSTEMS
BEST FURNITURE STORE
Ashley Furniture Homestore 2104 S. BRADLEY ROAD, SANTA MARIA here comes a time when we all must face the truth—that ugly, duct-taped recliner chair has to go! But where to find a worthy successor? At Ashley Furniture Homestore, of course! Their gorgeous showrooms are filled with beautiful, quality furniture, plus an array of decor, pillows, lighting, beds, and bedding to cozy up your home with style. A portion of the cost of every mattress sold by Ashley’s is donated to provide less fortune children with new mattresses. Nice! The helpful staff is courteous, and prices can’t be beat! I replaced our old recliner with a comfy recliner-sofa, delivered and assembled, perfect for snuggling with my hubby, grandson, and the dog, and that’s the truth! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: DEJA VU ANTIQUE MALL
BEST CARPET/FLOORING COMPANY
G & S Carpet Co.
222 E. DONOVAN ROAD, SANTA MARIA as your shag carpet become shaggy? Does your tile look tired? When it’s time to redo your f loors, head to G & S Carpet Co. If you’re looking for a classy building with a fancy showroom, you will be amazed because G & S has neither! But they do have cartloads of carpet, loads of laminate, and tons of tile for your consideration. The color range and styles are exceptional and the staff is terrific! They will help you get the best value at a good price to suit your needs, and they offer immediate installation to boot! Wowza! G & S Carpet Co. will absolutely f loor you! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: ABBEY CARPET & FLOOR
BEST NEW BUSINESS OF 2014
The Moxie Cafe Catering 1316 W. MCCOY LANE, SANTA MARIA atering is big business on the Central Coast, and one new addition to the scene this year impressed locals enough to vote The Moxie Cafe Catering as 2014’s Best New Business. The new addition to Moxie’s services came after the kitchen expanded last year and the cafe began offering more affordable catering options in the valley, explained General Manager Ron Lovell. “We specialize in drop-off catering, where we bring all the food ready for the dishes,” Lovell said. “We let you provide your own labor for serving the food, so we can help you save a lot of money that way.” —Joe
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RUNNER-UP: SIENA APARTMENTS
Thank You For Voting Us Best Tanning Salon! 24 Tanning Beds • Private Mystic Spray Booth Airbrush Spray (call for appt.)
24 Tanning Beds No Waiting! No Appt!
$35 Annual Cove Membership Lock in your Price…Any time, any day!! Sunburst $6 • Powerburst $8 • Monster $10 • Mystic $14
Bed “Being Auctioned off” Tickets at Salon $10 each
No nt Santa Maria Salon • (805) 922.7377 o p ap intmde, 1439 S. Broadway (Stowell & Broadway, JC Penney Center) neede n Mon-Fri 7am-8pm • Sat 8am-6pm • Sun 9am-5pm i just come! & tan Tanners Cove, where you always come out a shade better! · www.tannerscove.net • fb tannerscove805
THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US, we have had the pleasure of serving you for 10 years
617 S Broadway Santa Maria CA, 93454 (805) 925-5065 2103 S Broadway Santa Maria CA 93454 (805) 925-6166 www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 43
BEST ALTERNATIVE HEALER Dr. Herb Kandel, L.Ac., O.M.D. 29 Years Experience
Our Many Thanks To Our Loyal Patients
Acupuncture
Center of Santa Maria 225 E. Mill St., Santa Maria
805-922-4490 www.drkandel.com
Thanks for voting us one of the “Best”
Runner Up
John Henning, Ph.D. & Sharon Henning Owners & Administrators
Best Place for Senior Living
805-922-6657 830 E. Chapel Street, Santa Maria For more information go to: www.CountryOaksCareCenter.com 44 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
Best Attorney
Santa Maria is a great city. I’ve experienced
35 wonderful years, raising my family and working with a legal community small enough that everybody knows each other personally and by reputation. It’s a pleasure to serve you and support the efforts of concerned leaders and citizens who want to maintain our good quality of life while working for continuing improvement.
—David Bixby
LAW OFFICES OF DAVID M. BIXBY 937 E. MAIN STREET, SUITE 206
805-928-8323
Feelin’Good
InSPArations Salon & Spa Sheila Gibilisco
BestGET
PLACE TO A MASSAGE
BestES/
MANICUR PEDICURES
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 45
BEST HEALTH/CLUB GYM
BEST HAIR SALON
2015 S. BROADWAY, SUITE B, SANTA MARIA t’s no secret that people don’t really like to go to the gym. It often feels like one of those chores, on the to-do list right between “taxes” and “pretending to care about your nephew’s rock collection.” Western Village Health Club isn’t a chore. “We are a local gym, and we’re also the largest, most spacious, and best-equipped gym,” said Director of Operations Randy Bush. Not only is it the largest gym facility in Santa Maria, its vast amount of equipment, classes, and programs far outweigh the competition. Along with their full-size indoor pool, saunas, and 60 weekly group classes, the gym offers daily cinema screenings so you can watch Channing Tatum’s abs while working on your own. —Jessica
338 E. BETTERAVIA ROAD, SANTA MARIA eing so close to Hollywood rubs off on the Central Coast; Trends Salon is a perfect example of this. Once you walk through the doors of what seems like one of the small beauty parlors Santa Marians are used to, you will discover a huge, trendy salon with only the best stylists to make you look like any high-fashion celebrity your heart desires. While you’re waiting to be beautified, you have the chance to buy all of the boutique items you’d like right in the waiting area. It’s a small-town fashionista’s dream. From the latest rose-gold hair to the perfect bangs, Trends has it all. —Annie
Trends Salon
Western Village Health Club
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RUNNER-UP: INSPARATIONS SALON & SPA
BEST DENTIST
RUNNER-UP: SANTA MARIA VALLEY YMCA
Dr. Daniel Ng–Ng and Ng Dental and Vision
BEST PLACE TO GET A MASSAGE
InSPArations Salon & Spa 130 E. CLARK AVE., ORCUTT nSPArations has been getting the kinks out of locals since 2000. The place has a calm, tranquil atmosphere, and certified massage therapists can personalize your treatment. Indulge in a Swedish massage, go intense with a deep tissue rub, or try a combination of the two. The spa offers sports massage, stone and aromatherapy, and prenatal massage for mommies-to-be. The cranial sacral therapy releases tension, relieves headaches, and alleviates pain associated with scoliosis, chronic fatigue, neck and back pain, adrenal exhaustion, spinal injuries, and fibromyalgia. They won’t rub you the wrong way as their prices are excellent! InSPArations will inspire you toward better health. —Ariel
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Tour & Taste of the Valley V
Saturday, September 5th, 2015 Orcutt Union Plaza, Old Town Orcutt Premier Wine Country Cycling, Run and Gourmet Food, Beer and Wine Tasting Event
50k & 100K Bike Rides, 5k & 10K Runs, and over 50 Local Restaurants, Breweries and Wineries, Live Music and Arts & Crafts Fair.
Register online at TourandTasteoftheValley.org or call 805-922-7163 for tickets All proceeds benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Maria Valley Great Futures Start Here! bgcsmv.org
This ad proudly sponsored by: The registered representatives are with and securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Ogden Wealth Management and Planning Services, LLC. A registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial.
421 E. Betteravia Rd., Ste. 201, Santa Maria CA Insurance Lic #0C58057
(805) 739-0455 · www.ogdenwealth.com
RUNNER-UP: HEALING TOUCH DAY SPA OF NIPOMO
BEST YOGA STUDIO
Treetop Yoga
2171 SANTA MARIA WAY, SANTA MARIA n an ideal world, deadlines would be flexible, children would be neater, and traffic would be less aggressive. Because we don’t live in that world, there is Treetop Yoga to help you lower those cortisol levels, exhale slowly, and put it all into perspective. Treetop Yoga has been soothing minds and bodies in Santa Maria for four years. Owner Nicole Donati said it’s the variety that makes people love her studio. From yoga to women’s self-defense classes, there’s always something new to learn. And for beginners asking “downward face my what?” there are even classes that will show you the basics. —Shelly
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610 E. CHAPEL ST., SANTA MARIA obody likes going to the dentist. All those tools laid out neatly on a metal tray will eventually end up scraping and scratching against your teeth. But there’s something notable about a dentist’s office that can say the opposite. “Some of our patients say—it’s kind of silly, but—that they enjoy coming to the dentist,” said Priscilla Lum, who works for Daniel Ng at Ng and Ng Dental and Vision. In 2016, the practice will be celebrating 30 years, and Lum said patients are now going on their third generation of family members, which makes sense. Dr. Ng and his brother have a family practice that treats patients like family. According to Lum: “He says our staff is the one that deserves the award.” —Camillia
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RUNNER-UP: DR. CAROLYN BALDIVIEZ
BEST GENERAL DOCTOR
Dr. Donald Hole
915 E. STOWELL ROAD, SANTA MARIA f you or your child wakes up with a nasty cold, who do you make an appointment with? Dr. Hole. He is friendly, compassionate, and wildly popular with kids and adults alike. Dr. Hole will attentively listen to any and all symptoms, even coming from a hypochondriac! His smiles and kind demeanor might just cure you without a prescription, though those can be helpful also. Dr. Hole is the most recommended for any type of general health issues or questions you might have, give him a chance next time you run into a runny nose! —Annie
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RUNNER-UP: DR. JOHN OKERBLOM
BEST OB-GYN
Dr. Elaine Yin, Dr. Tad Callahan
RUNNER-UP: YOGA FOR MANKIND
Join us online...
BEST BARBERSHOP
Old Orcutt Barber Shop 156 BROADWAY ST., ORCUTT haircut is a special thing. You can’t trust just anyone with that responsibility. Otherwise, you’ll wind up looking like late ’90s Justin Timberlake (i.e. not good). You need someone who knows what they’re doing. Welcome to the Old Orcutt Barber Shop. With its classic red, white, and blue barber’s pole out front, the Old Orcutt Barber Shop has been doling out smooth shaves and sharp cuts since 1961. Six years ago, Albert Licerio bought the shop and has maintained its traditional, old-school feel. “The way I describe it,” he said, “it’s a community barbershop, and I just work it. Everybody knows everybody.” —Jessica
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@santamariasun #SantaMariaSun 46 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
RUNNER-UP: BEACON BARBER SHOP
220 PALISADE DRIVE, SUITES 204 AND 101, SANTA MARIA always wanted to be able to take care of someone from when they were an adolescent “to maturity,” said Dr. Elaine Yin, esteemed OB-GYN and colleague of co-winner Dr. Tad Callahan. Yin, a graduate of the Temple University School of Medicine, has been practicing for more than 20 years. “People of Santa Maria are so appreciative,” she said. “That makes what I’m doing such a pleasure. There’s a sense of community in Santa Maria that is not always there in other places.” —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: DR. MITCHELL ADLER BEST OF continued page 1
PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHA
BEST OF from page 46
BEST PEDIATRICIAN
Dr. Benita Young, Dr. George Robertson 1505 SHEPARD DRIVE, SUITE 103, SANTA MARIA; 1430 E. MAIN ST., SUITE 201, SANTA MARIA ollectively, Dr. Benita Young and Dr. George Robertson have nearly 90 years of experience in the field of pediatrics. That’s about 80 years more than the typical age of their patients. But with all those years comes bountiful wisdom and expertise regarding the ins and outs of children’s medical care. “We have a great population [in Santa Maria],” Dr. Robertson said. “People take good care of their kids. It’s a good place to practice medicine. There’ve been a lot of changes. Medications we used to use for asthma when I came to the community, we don’t use anymore. There’ve been some big advances.” —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: DR. ROBERT BARRY
BEST ALTERNATIVE HEALER
Dr. Herb Kandel– Acupuncture Center of Santa Maria 225 E. MILL ST., SANTA MARIA ith 25 years of private practice as a licensed acupuncturist and a doctor of Oriental medicine, Dr. Herb Kandel also teaches group classes on acupuncture, Chinese medicine, and traditional Chinese exercises. He also believes in a collaboration
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LIKE CHEERS: Old Orcutt Barbershop is where the person who cuts and styles is like a long lost friend. Always friendly, always familiar, always dependable. Maybe that’s why the standby is the Best Barbershop in Northern Santa Barbara County.
BEST OF continued page 49
Where Pat ient Care Count s!
Our practice is dedicated to providing good healthcare for you and your whole family. Voted “Best Dr.” for 15 years in a row. Accepting new patients
ROBERT W. OKERBLOM, M.D. • JENNIFER R. BOBELL, M.D. • DONALD J. HOLE, M.D. KARNA S. GOCKE, M.D. • KAY MORELAND, R.N., N.P. REBECCA COOK, R.N., F.N.P. • LESLIE HUTTON R.N., F.N.P.
934-5140
915 E. Stowell, Suite C SANTA MARIA www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 47
Thank you for voting us best health club Best Gym Best Price! Only $1 to S tart
ABSOLUTELY N
O OTHER FEES
(LIMITED OFFE
SEE CLUB FOR
R DETAILS)
The Largest and Best Health Club in Santa Maria Membership Includes: • Over 100 pieces of cardio equipment to choose from
• Huge free weight room
• Cinema Cardio Room - movies to workout to
• Boxing training area
• Access to ALL group fitness classes
• New functional training area featuring PurMotion
• Fitness assessment from one of our certified personal trainers
• Women’s preferred work out area
• Access to indoor pool, sauna, steam room and whirlpool
Western Village Health Club 2015-B South Broadway, Santa Maria
348-1888 · wvhealthclub.com 48 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
• Brand New Men’s and Women’s Locker Rooms
BEST CHIROPRACTOR
BEST OF from page 47 between Western and Eastern medicine, as it yields the greatest benefits. “Western medicine is great at trauma care and diagnosis of infectious disease and cancer,” he told the Sun last year. “Chinese medicine addresses many conditions that fall through the cracks.” He also feels it’s important to collaborate with patients to come up with solutions to health issues. “People want to be engaged in their health,” he said. —Camillia
RUNNER-UP: DR. RUTH CARBO
BEST COUNSELOR/THERAPIST
Dr. James Tahmisian
117 E. FESLER ST., SANTA MARIA very now and then, you just need someone to talk to. Someone who isn’t you’re best friend or mom or brother. Someone you don’t have a history with. Backed by 43 years of experience, according to findusdoctor.com, Dr. James Tahmisian is renowned for his dedication and commitment to patients. He specializes in clinical psychology, which focuses on diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. If you’re looking for a dependable counselor with a delicate touch, who has years of practice on his side, Sun readers agree, head to Dr. Tahmisian’s office. —Camillia
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RUNNER-UP: ELIZABETH THOMPSON, MFT
Dr. Aaron Anaya—Anaya Chiropractic & Sports 338 E. BETTERAVIA, SANTA MARIA ocusing on sports issues and injuries “just makes the most sense” to Dr. Aaron Anaya, who, of course, treats patients for more than just sports-related things. And with all of his patients, he really strives to create an integrated practice that does more than just focus on the spine, but also works out to the limbs to diagnose issues and—if needed— connects patients with physical therapists and other medical professionals. One of the practice’s philosophies is: “Treat everyone like you would treat your mom,” he said. And it’s working; Dr. Anaya said his practice sees about 800 patients a month! —Camillia
of unwanted hair, the Moats team’s various methods of dermatological care continue to keep patients satisfied. —Chris
RUNNER-UP: INSPARATIONS SALON & SPA
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RUNNER-UP: DR. DOUG WILSON– CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS GROUP
BEST PLACE FOR SKIN CARE
BEST TANNING SALON
Tanner’s Cove
1439 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA es, Santa Maria is near plenty of beaches where you could get a reasonably decent bronzing. But what if it’s the dead of winter and only 65 degrees out instead of 75? That’s when you need a pro to do the job. And there’s no pro more accessible, affordable, and better equipped than Tanner’s Cove. This Central Coast chain (with another location in San Luis Obispo) offers the full gamut needed to get those gams golden, from tanning booths to a total of 24 tanning beds. And if you’re looking for extra attention to detail, try the UV-free Mystic spray tan, says manager Alexandra Rosario. —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: ENDLESS SUMMER
Moats Laser & Skin Care 525 E. PLAZA DRIVE, SUITE 200, SANTA MARIA oats Laser & Skin Care has earned the Sun Best Of title Best Place for Skin Care every year for 10 years now. Although their award winning services have become the status quo, the team at Moats assures the community that continuing to receive the honor “feels wonderful.” If feeling wonderful is your status quo, that’s a pretty good place to be, and a pretty good place Moats MUST be. From regenerating collagen, to smoothing out the brow, to removal
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BOYS & GIRLS SANTA MARIA CLUB VALLEY n
BEST MANICURES/PEDICURES
InSPArations Salon & Spa, 130 E. CLARK AVE., ORCUTT here’s nothing like a relaxing mani-pedi, and InSPArations offers the best of both! Their talented and creative nail technicians provide exceptional service in a private setting. Dip your tootsies in a hydro-therapy whirlpool with built-in back massager, rest your head on a warm aromatherapy pillow,
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and listen to soothing music while they massage your legs and feet, shape and buff your nails, condition your cuticles, and top it off with your choice of polish color. They rate tops in sanitization and will even give you the files they use during your session or destroy them. When it comes to the best mani or pedi, InSPArations really nails it! —Ariel
RUNNERS-UP(TIE): QUEEN NAILS, SUNNY NAILS
BEST PLACE FOR SENIOR LIVING
Merrill Gardens
1220 SUEY ROAD, SANTA MARIA et’s face it, baby-boomers, we are entering our geezer years, and some of us may need extra care and attention. That makes Merrill Gardens a top choice, offering independent and assisted living. The caring staff is trained in the MG CARES program focusing on communication, attitude, relationships, enthusiasm, and sincerity. The campus-style community has terrific amenities, and is close to golf courses, wineries, shopping, churches and a synagogue, the Luis Oasis Senior Center, Veteran’s Administration, and Marian Regional Medical Center. Studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments, and cottages are surrounded by beautiful grounds with paths, a pool, and spa. Concierge services, transportation, and housekeeping are available, and residents may enjoy fresh, restaurant-style meals served daily. Merrill Gardens sounds so good, maybe I’ll retire early! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: COUNTRY OAKS CARE CENTER
Turn Your
Favorite Photo Into A
Treasured Art Work
fun D-RAISER
On September 17, the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Maria is presenting a special publication in Sun. The publication will include their quarterly newsletter & information about the Boys & Girls Club with ads designed especially for you by the kids at the club. Please sponsor a child in this Boys & Girls Club pull-out section. 25% of all sales go directly to the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Maria, and Sun underwrites the cost of publishing.
Specializing in Heirloom Portraits
advertising@santamariasun.com
AD DEADLINE
9-3-2015 9-17-2015 PUBLICATION DATE
805.347.1968 santamariasun.com advertising@newtimesslo.com
Adults . Children . Animals
937-4882
Graphite Artist, Minnie Anderson
www.minniezart.com
805.546.8208 newtimesslo.com www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 49
cOMMUNITYONMYMINd
BestONPROFIT
/N COMMUNITY N ORGANIZATIO
BestO
PLACE T VOLUNTEER
BestER
KIDS AFT GRAM SCHOOL PRO
50 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
Boys & Girls Club of the Santa Maria Valley
Jeremy Deming (CEO), Roberto Rodriguez, Porandi Garcia, Calixto Rodriguez, Leeah Kern
THANK YOU
DETOX SUPPORT RECOVERY
for voting us best home security
Addiction Physician Directs All Patient Care Medical Detox Evidence Based Individualized Treatment Affordable Outpatient Care
Smith’s Alarms & Electronics, Inc specializes in security system installations and fire alarms. We work with both residential and commercial clients throughout the central coast area and our highly-trained technicians are always available to answer any questions you may have.
Confidential Individual and Group Counseling 12 step and non 12 step programs
Fire Alarms · Home Theater · Video Survelliance · Security Alarms Diplomate of the American Board of
805.619.4510
Addiction Medicine
www.smithane.com
2 Locations to Serve Your Needs
Alcohol, Opiate, Heroin & Pain Killer Addiction
contractor C-10 937375 – ACO 6884
1320 Van Beurdan Drive # 103, Los Osos 151 W Dana Street # 101, Nipomo
(805) 242-1360 | kenstarrmd.com
Thank you for voting for us! Best Place to Buy Kid’s Clothes
WINNER BEST BIKE SHOP RUNNER UP BEST SP O RTS/ O U TD O O R S STO R E
Family Owned and Operated for 30 Years TWO LOCATIONS:
(805) 922-9195 ∆ 317 TOWN CENTER EAST ∆ NEXT TO MACY’S
M AIN S TRE E T CY CL ES 311 E Main St, Santa Maria (8 0 5) 9 2 2 -557 7
CYCLE STAR B ICYCLES 3420 Orcutt Rd #107, Orcutt (805) 314-2623
Hours 10-6 Monday-Saturday
Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm
MAINSTREETCYCLES.COM www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 51
52 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
~ BEST BUILDER ~
PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHASHI
Halsell Builders 3130 SKYWAY DRIVE, SANTA MARIA rothers Joe and James Halsell know the Santa Maria community. They grew up here and in 2002 opened Halsell Builders—a comprehensive design and construction firm that specializes in custom homes, community projects, and wineries. Over the years, they’ve not only designed and built some stunning private properties, they’ve poured their high level of craftsmanship into several community projects, including a complete rebuild of the San Ramon Chapel in Santa Maria and several home remodels for families and individuals in need. Indeed, Halsell doesn’t just build and design houses in a community. They help the community become a home. —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: CCB–COASTAL COMMUNITY BUILDERS
~ BEST TEACHER OR PROFESSOR ~
David DuBransky
TUNNELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL avid DuBransky didn’t set out to become a teacher. When he was younger, he dreamed of becoming a Disney Imagineer. That dream fizzled, but the tides soon turned. During a summer stint at Vandenberg Air Force Base, someone suggested teaching. The rest is history … and math … and science … and all the other subjects DuBransky teaches in his fourth grade class at Tunnell Elementary School. For 16 years, he’s been enriching the minds of Santa Maria’s youth. “My favorite part about being a teacher in Santa Maria is to know that I am having a positive effect on the lives of my students,” he said. “That’s pretty cool and extremely rewarding.” —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: KELLY LEMAY– TAYLOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
living in Santa Maria. Our entire our newsroom is invested in the community.” Barden added, “We are thrilled and very honored to win this. Our most important focus is doing our best to be as accurate as possible and the source that people go to for what is really happening. It’s not about being first. It’s about being right.” Well said! —Ariel
RUNNER-UP: KCOY
~ BEST KIDS AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM ~
Boys & Girls Club of Santa Maria Valley
901 NORTH RAILROAD AVE., SANTA MARIA ids have loads of energy and need good outlets to channel it. The Boys & Girls Club of Santa Maria Valley is a superb organization that offers fun activities for elementary and high school aged children. Programs promote character and leadership development, education and careers, health and life skills, technology and money skills. The club caters to diversified interests including cooking, art, digital arts, sports, and computer games. There are field trips and movie nights, even dances, and plenty of opportunities to meet and make friends. Terrific community volunteers share their knowledge and experience as mentors. After all, it takes a village, or in this case a community, to raise a child. —Ariel
K SPEAK UP: Andy Caldwell earned himself the title of Best Take-it-to-The-Man Local Activist yet again. He ain’t afraid of
no government.
~ BEST MAN OR WOMAN BEHIND THE BADGE ~
Cmdr. Kendall Green
SANTA MARIA POLICE DEPARTMENT orn and raised in Santa Maria, Cmdr. Green has been with the SMPD for 25 years. He oversees the gang unit, detective bureau, narcotics, crime lab, and property and evidence. But his favorite part of the job is interacting with the community. “Santa Maria is one of most caring communities I’ve been associated with,” he said. Police Chief Ralph Martin said, “He’s been a fixture in police work and as a mentor to young people through the Boys and Girls Club.” Cmdr. Green is also a classy guy, speaking highly of colleague and this category’s runnerup Paul Santiago. “He’s an outstanding officer and communicator who is currently training 40 new officers how to function on the street.” He
added, “All the men and women at SMPD do a great job and we serve a great community.” We salute them all! —Ariel
RUNNER-UP: SMPD OFFICER PAUL SANTIAGO
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~ BEST NEWS SOURCE ~
KSBY
429 E. MAIN ST., SANTA MARIA ocal NBC affiliate KSBY-TV was the first local television station built on the Central Coast, making its on-air debut in 1953. News director Doug Barden came to KSBY four years ago and coordinates everything that goes into the local newscasts. “We pride ourselves on getting to know and be involved with the community,” he said. “Reporters like Charlie Misra and photojournalist Jason Orr have a lot of pride in
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Santa Maria Valley YMCA
3400 SKYWAY DRIVE, SANTA MARIA uper. Hero. Academy. I feel like that’s all I have to say. You adults out there are probably feeling the same way I did when I heard that. But sorry, the YMCA only offers it during the summer—while you’re at work—and it’s only for kids—so, again, not for you. That’s just one of the themes for the Y’s eight summer camps, so it’s easy to see why they have such a great reputation when it comes to youth-minded
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2015 WINNER
BEST OF continued page 55
Best Place to Get a Tattoo AND
Best Place to Get a Body Piercing
Thank you to everyone that voted us and helped us be the
Thank you for voting us one of the best for the last 7 years!
“Best Nursery” Sincerely, Old Town Garden Center Management & Staff As an appreciation for your vote take:
25% OFF any one item
(805) 310-4536 coppercoffin.com 104 W Chapel St., Santa Maria www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 53
DON’T ADOPT SHOP! WWW.SBCPHD.ORG/AS
ADOPT ME!
Please Give Me a Forever Home! It is an honor to be chosen Northern Santa Barbara County’s Best Chiropractor.
Anaya Chiropractic & Sports Injury 338 E. Betteravia Rd. Suite D, Santa Maria, CA (805) 925-9299 • www.anayachiro.com
We enjoy providing Santa Maria with the best chiropractic care. Thank you for trusting our office with your health care needs.
Congratulations! Congratulations to Tad Callahan, MD and Elaine Yin, MD for being voted by our community as the best OB/GYN providers in Northern Santa Barbara County! To find a doctor on the Central Coast, please call 805.270.2513.
Camino
Camino (ID391157) looks like a little fox. He is a quiet, reserved boy who would make a great companion.
Visit us at PetSmart in Santa Maria from 11:30-2:00, the 4th Sunday of the month! Stop by any one of our three shelters to find your furever friend: 548 W. Foster 1501 W. Central 5473 Overpass Rd Santa Maria Lompoc Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara County Animal Shelter 548 W. Foster Road, Santa Maria This ad is sponsored by the Sun
Thank you
Northern Santa Barbara County
www.dignityhealth.org/central-coast
For voting us The Best Place to Pamper Your Pet Tad Callahan, MD
Elaine Yin, MD
Dog-Gone Gorgeous Pet Salon
149 S 1st St. Suite A • Santa Maria, CA 93455
(805) 937-1916
Thank You for Voting Us Best Place To Buy Eyewear
eats
1140 E Clark Ave #160, Santa Maria M–F 10am–6pm, Sat 10am–2pm (805) 934-4801
orcuttlensmasters.com
54 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
eat up the local food & wine scene every Thursday santamariasun.com/eats/
BEST OF from page 53 programs. Youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility are key for the organization, and so is having fun while doing it. —Camillia
RUNNER-UP: AFTERSCHOOL EDUCATION & SAFETY PROGRAM (ASES)
~ BEST COMMUNITY/NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION ~
Boys & Girls Club of Santa Maria Valley 901 N. RAILROAD AVE., SANTA MARIA he Boys & Girls Club of Santa Maria Valley provides an affordable outlet for children in the community to exercise their minds, spirits, and bodies. But such dedication to making these programs available takes funding. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Maria Valley has a hardworking volunteer board of directors that works with committee members to raise unrestricted donations to help support the club’s programs. They can always use volunteers, but if time or other concerns prevent you from stepping up, you can still be a donor. So dust off your checkbook because this club is a true investment in our future! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: SANTA MARIA VALLEY YMCA
~ BEST PLACE TO VOLUNTEER ~
Boys & Girls Club of Santa Maria Valley 901 N. RAILROAD AVE., SANTA MARIA t’s a trifecta! Our readers not only agree that the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Maria Valley
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has the best after-school program and is the best community nonprofit group, the club is the best place to invest your time as a volunteer! One of the keys to its success is an army of wonderful volunteers, and you could be one of them. They are people in the local community from every walk of life including parents, grandparents, police officers, and teachers, and maybe even a butcher, baker, and candlestick maker! Here’s a chance to share your interest and passion with youngsters who are like sponges, ready to soak up anything new. The only skill needed is the joy of mentoring youngsters and having fun while doing it. —Ariel
RUNNER-UP: SANTA MARIA VALLEY HUMANE SOCIETY
~ BEST TAKE-IT-TO-THE-MAN LOCAL ACTIVIST ~
Andy Caldwell
COLAB, SANTA BARBARA COUNTY ndy Caldwell takes this Best Of title for another year running. Why? “I hope it is because [readers] know that I am going to speak the truth to government and, in turn, to the public based on my honest opinion of what’s going on.” And that he does. You can catch him at most Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors meetings, speaking on behalf of the Coalition for Labor, Agriculture, and Business, as well as on his radio show: A Voice for Reason, Monday through Friday from 3 to 5 p.m. at 1220 AM on the dial. After 25 years as COLAB’s executive director, Caldwell said he does what he does because he still believes in the American Dream and the American people. —Camillia
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RUNNER-UP: RICHARD MASON
s #1 u g in t o V r o f u o Y thank re o t s t if r h t t s e B f o Winner
Casa Blanca Bridals Thank you for voting for us!
Best Place Best Place To Buy To Get A Tux A Wedding Dress
V •T •C enterprises
Best Quinceañera Resource
Buy one regular priced item get second item
Quinceanera Dresses Wedding Dresses Tuxedos Your formal wear needs for all occasions
(equal or less value)
50% off 805-928-3436 or info.thriftstore@vtc-sm.org not valid with any other special
V •T •C enterprises
529 S BloSSer rd. • Santa Maria, Ca
608 W. oCean ave. • loMpoC, Ca
(805) 928-3436 or (805) 928-5000 ext 181
(805) 714-5698
901 N. Broadway, Santa Maria · 805 928-7977 www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 55
EVENTS & F ESTIViTIES
BestERA
QUINCEARÑCE RESOU
BestUY A
PLACE TO BDRESS WEDDING
BestO
PLACE T X BUY A TU
C asa B lanca B ridal Maria Martinez, Cynthia Martinez, Perla Gil
56 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY IN NORTHERN SANTA BARBARA COUNTY
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Thank you for voting us Best Real Estate Company in 2015!
We look forward to helping you with your future real estate needs! 2670 S. MILLER STREET, SUITE 101, SANTA MARIA, CA 93455 805-928-4321 Text bhhsca328 to # 87778 for more information
Come see our store and why we were voted
One of the Best Kids Clothing Shops!
SERVING THE CENTRAL COAST FOR 37 YEARS!
1108 E. Clark, Orcutt • 937-8766
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 57
MORE HOME, MORE YARD & MORE GARAGE
.com version:
for your money than anywhere else on the Central Coast! Great neighborhood / Eastside location / Private casitas / 1 & 2 stories / 3 car garages ...............................
From the $400,000s!
Nice large lots for great big BBQs! Abbreviation version: Model homes now open! ...............................
1888 Silva Drive in Santa Maria (805) 925-1300 Open Daily 10am – 5pm
Tag versions:
BRE #01266964
We Are Wild About Pediatrics
In Good Hands Dr. Barry & Staff would like to thank all our patients for voting!
Robert S. Barry, M.D., Inc. • Jon W. MacLean, D.O. Board Certified Pediatricians 1420 SOUTH MILLER STREET, SANTA MARIA SUITE A: 805-922-3573 Barbara Brown-Ramirez, C.P.N.P, P.M.H.S SUITE B: 805-614-7040 58 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
~ BEST PLACE TO GO ON A FIRST DATE ~
~ BEST QUINCEAÑERA RESOURCE ~
3325 POINT SAL ROAD, CASMALIA aving already blurbed The Hitching Post several times for this Best Of edition, I’m taking this opportunity to send a message to the single ladies of Santa Maria: If I can take you on a first date to The Hitching Post, I will pick you up in a company car, bring along one of the giant moneybags full of gold bullion with which we are generously and frequently compensated at the Sun (I can dream, can’t I?) and buy you what may well be the best steak that you’ve ever had in your entire life at an establishment that’s hosted first dates and the dates thereafter for decades on the Central Coast. But seriously, call me … . —Sean
901 N. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA quinceañera is an important coming-of-age celebration that continues to be recognized by the Latin and Mexican cultures. This event reflects a transformation—a girl becoming a young lady or señorita. The dress, perhaps the most important piece of the ceremony, is ultimately what marks the change in the wearer’s status in the community. The quinceañera dress is very special, and Casa Blanca Bridal aims to help young ladies find the dress of their dreams. They offer a wide selection of dresses for this occasion, as well as quinceañera suits, tuxes, and tiaras; owner Maria Martinez works to help each young lady find a dress that is unique to them. Don’t be fooled by this small shop, it has everything a young lady needs to make her quinceañera celebration unforgettable. —Kristina
The Hitching Post
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RUNNER-UP: NORTH CHINA RESTAURANT
Casa Blanca Bridal
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801 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA veryone loves a good party. Not so much when it comes to planning one. Planning can be the source of tension or headaches and cause you to seek out someplace to do some downward facing dog or warrior poses, (if not seeking out the best Central Coast margarita) to find peace in your planning. It’s a good thing the Santa Maria Inn has staff that actually loves to plan parties. General Manager JeanLuc Garon said this is one of the reasons the Inn is a favorite event planner for the Santa Maria Valley. “We have a wonderful staff that knows how to create an enjoyable experience,” he said. —Shelly
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RUNNER-UP: ELEGANT DETAILS
~ BEST PLACE TO HAVE A KID’S PARTY ~
Waller Park
300 GOODWIN ROAD, ORCUTT here are at least three things you need to have a successful kid’s party: kids (obviously), snacks, and plenty of room to run around (especially if those snacks are sugar). Waller Park has plenty of room and then some. Located just south of Santa Maria, you won’t find any of the city hubbub here. Within the park’s 153 acres of lush outdoors, you’ll find two lakes, playgrounds, picnic areas (complete with barbecue grills and shaded seating), sports courts, and, possibly the most essential amenity: accessible restrooms. So, you bring the kids and Kit Kats. Waller Park’s got the rest covered. —Jessica
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RUNNER-UP: SANTA MARIA VALLEY DISCOVERY MUSEUM
~ BEST DJ ~
~ BEST PLACE TO BUY A WEDDING DRESS ~
Casa Blanca Bridal
901 N. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA ut of the significant moments that pop up in a woman’s life, purchasing a wedding dress ranks high as the most important. Buying a wedding dress should be a unique and special experience, one where the bride leaves feeling like she has found the perfect wedding dress for her big day. This is the kind of experience that Casa Blanca Bridal of Santa Maria aims to provided its brides. Owner Maria Martinez and her staff are hailed for their attention to detail and wide variety of bridal services. Though the shop is small and sometimes crowded, Martinez can swiftly help you find the dress of your dreams and accommodate a variety of needs. Martinez and her staff are known for providing brides with a caring, professional, and detailed experience—not to mention Martinez is a seamstress in high demand who can handle any type of alteration. —Kristina
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RUNNER-UP: A CLASS ACT EVENT SERIES
JACEY
AGE: 4years 11 months BREED: Chihuahua Mix; White & Black SEX: Female WEIGHT: 9.9 lbs.
NINA
AGE: 5 months BREED: DSH Grey Tabby SEX: Female WEIGHT: 5.4 lbs.
All animals are health checked, spayed/ neutered, vaccinated and microchipped Thursday Mornin Vaccine Cl g 10am-12pinic m
Low Cost r te Spay/Neu Call for an t en tm appoin
1687 W. Stowell Rd, Santa Maria • (805) 349-3435
visit www.smvhs.org
for info & to view pets available for adoption This ad provided by:
The Maxim in Real Estate
(805) 878-0807
RUNNER-UP: DOWN THE AISLE
~ BEST PLACE TO BUY A TUX ~
Casa Blanca Bridal
901 N. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA or the menfolk, finding a tuxedo that fits is just as important as a woman finding the perfect-fitting dress. Casa Blanca Bridal of Santa Maria offers a wide variety of suits, tuxedos, and suit rentals for any occasion. The shop is an affiliate of Jim’s Formal Wear and offers a wide variety of these suits. Suit alterations are no problem for owner Maria Martinez and her exceptional seamstress skills. —Kristina
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RUNNERS-UP (TIE): RAY ANDERSON’S SUITS AND FORMAL WEAR, SASSY & CLASSY BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
ADVERTISING SALES Join our Team! Do you love Santa Maria? Do you want to help local businesses succeed? So do we! The Sun is a family-owned business that has been part of the community since 2000. Our mission is to publish great newspapers, which are successful and enduring, create a quality work environment that encourages employees to grow and to have a positive impact on our communities and make it a better place to live. The Sun is looking for an individual who cares about building relationships and partnering with local businesses. If you have the heart, we have the tools to train you to be a successful Ad Consultant. You must be self-motivated, ambitious and an independent person who wants to be part of a great team. Successful reps will have a sincere desire to help our clients assess their needs and work together to create marketing campaigns that increase their business. Talents: • A curiosity about how different types of businesses work. • An interest in learning consultative sales skills. • Excellent time management skills and the ability to work within deadlines. • The ability to be social and enjoy talking with people. • The ability to learn how to develop solutions to marketing problems. • A strong work ethic. • Superior customer service skills. • Experience: Experience in business, customer service or related field. • College degree preferred. TO APPLY: If this sounds like you, please let us know by e-mailing your resume and cover to Kim Rosa at krosa@santamariasun.com. When you submit your resume please answer the following questions in the body of your e-mail: 1) Why are you interested in working for New Times Media Group? 2) Why should we hire you? Compensation includes a base salary, commission and bonus; excellent benefits package including medical, dental, paid time off. The Sun is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
2540 Skyway Drive, Santa Maria
~ BEST JEWELRY STORE ~
DJ Zapp
ZAPPLAUREL ON FACEBOOK ark Laurel, aka DJ Zapp, is an event specialist extraordinaire! This local, home-grown boy has spun tunes for more than 25 years. “I learned my craft at local events and had great mentors,” he said. He also donates his time and skills to charity events for the Boys and Girls Club, the YMCA, and others. “I like to give back because this community provides a lot for me and my children,” he said. DJ Zapp is a wedding professional who works to realize each couple’s vision for happy memories of their nuptials. “I create a soundtrack for each event,” he stated. “I play songs so everyone goes home saying, ‘I had a great time tonight.’” He plays everything from big band to reggae, hip-hop to teen pop, and country to crooners. “I’m your favorite DJ’s favorite DJ!” he said. —Ariel
EMPLOYMENT
RUNNER-UP: ANGELITA’S FASHION
~ BEST EVENT PLANNER ~
Santa Maria Inn
Call Us
about our low cost Spay & Neuter Clinic
Melby’s Jewelers
1140 E. CLARK AVE., SUITE 190, SANTA MARIA elby’s Jewelers, a family-owned business, has a history dating back to the 1870s when Norwegian Stefanus Melby emigrated to America. His son Arnold, a watchmaker, moved to Santa Maria in 1922, and started the business, handing it over to his son Donald in 1945. Melby’s was built on professional service, quality gems, superb workmanship, and artistry—a tradition that continues today. Whether you’re looking for the perfect engagement ring, wedding bands, or gift, the jewelers at Melby’s will work with you to create something special for that special someone. Melby’s Jewelers also provides appraisals, jewelry insurance, lab reports, engraving, and more. They are a real gem! —Ariel
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RUNNER-UP: FISCHER’S FINE JEWELRY BEST OF continued page 61
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Best Place to Have a Wedding Reception
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BEST OF from page 59
~ BEST VENUE TO GET MARRIED ~
Santa Maria Inn
801 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA fter the wedding is over, you may not remember the sweetness of the cake, the taste of the dinner, or the song the DJ played more than once, but you’ll never forget the location. An incredible venue can make up for a mediocre entrée or lackluster entertainment. Santa Maria Inn has got charm in spades and plenty to spare. General Manager Jean-Luc Garon said the Inn features several photo-ready areas to take your vows. “We have a couple of locations to get married, the most popular is on the patio near the fountain,” Garon said. —Shelly
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~ BEST PLACE TO HAVE A WEDDING RECEPTION ~
PHOTO BY KAORI FUNAHASHI
BUMPIN’: DJ Zapp spins and clicks at weddings, parties, and, really, anywhere you want him to. He’s been at it for years and has the title of Best DJ to prove he’s got mad skills.
Santa Maria Country Club
505 W. WALLER LANE, SANTA MARIA ook, not everyone can get married in a castle overlooking the sea like a Disney princess. But the Santa Maria Country Club isn’t too shabby a second choice. There, you’ll find gorgeous vistas of green fields, towering trees, and sparkling fountains not far from the ocean. “We have an amazing view,” says wedding banquet coordinator Jennifer Biely. “It’s tucked away, like a little secret.” But looks aren’t everything. The Santa Maria Country Club also plays host to a spacious reception hall that includes the full service of a wedding coordinator, banquet menus, and complimentary champagne among other amenities fit for the perfect celebration. —Jessica
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~ BEST WEDDING CAKE BAKER ~
Gina’s Piece of Cake
SANTA MARIA TOWN CENTER, 307 TOWN CENTER E., SANTA MARIA ina Martin knows cakes. She’s been making them for 27 years now, and her family’s been crafting delectable desserts for 45. And more than cakes, Gina knows wedding cakes. She and the staff at Gina’s Piece of Cake have done every type of design imaginable, from a Nascar-themed wedding to traditional country designs. It’s this kind of versatility that makes Gina’s stand out. They’re open to new challenges, even those that aren’t cake. Alongside custom cakes, Gina’s has begun offering dessert bars filled with pies, cupcakes, and fruit tarts for all. “We just like being a part of the bride and groom’s special day and making their dream wedding cake,” she said. —Jessica
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~ BEST MARRIAGE COUNSELOR ~
Elizabeth Thompson, MFT
115 E. FESLER ST., SANTA MARIA o quote The Princess Bride, “Mawwiage:” It’s one of those big, life-changing decisions up there with choosing which college to attend and seeing Beyoncé live in concert. But unlike the Beyoncé concert, marriage requires a little less dancing and a little more work. Occasionally, you need some help, and if you do, Elizabeth Thompson is there to listen and advise. “I just have a true passion for helping individuals overcome personal obstacles,” she said. For three years, Thompson has been helping couples communicate, work through their issues, and grow together. “Just getting to know people in an intimate way, I believe is a true gift.” —Jessica
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801 S. BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA hen family comes to visit, you want their stay to be relaxing, beautiful, and comfortable— just maybe not in your house. Whether it’s about not having enough room or just wanting to really impress, Santa Marians know where to send visiting family for a stylish stay; they take them to the Santa Maria Inn. General Manager Jean-Luc Garon said the Inn provides an inviting atmosphere and a caring staff that will take care of your family as if it were their own. “It has beautiful landscape and it has a certain charm,” he said. —Shelly
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ARTS COUNTRY ROCKERS: American Aquarium, headed by singer/songwriter BJ Barham (pictured center), will perform their new album Wolves at Standing Sun Wines on Aug. 17.
LOCAL NOTES PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN AQUARIUM
Howling at Standing Sun American Aquarium singer/songwriter BJ Barham talks about his upcoming show at Standing Sun Wines, new album Wolves, and life on the road
Hear the full interview the brokenListen to Sun Arts Editor Joe Payne’s hearted love orth Carolina country rockers American full interview with BJ Barham in songs and the Aquarium, headed by singer/songwriter podcast form at santamariasun.com. acoustic guitar BJ Barham, have been tearing through the and the pedal nation playing packed shows since the release steel guitar,” he continued. “For lack of a better of the band’s newest record Wolves in February term, that is Americana, you know, average Joes of this year. Their next stop—and the group’s writing songs about everyday life.” Santa Barbara County debut—is at Standing The album pushes American Aquarium out Sun Wines in Buellton on Aug. 17, where the of the parlance of simple Southern rock and group will perform cuts off the new album. makes a strong statement in the alternative Wolves almost didn’t happen as the group’s indie sphere. Rolling Stone magazine took previous release in 2012, Burn.Flicker.Die., was note of the band this year, naming them a top meant as a farewell record. group to pay attention to, Barham said. This “Our last record, Burn.Flicker.Die., was supposed is despite the fact that the last track on Wolves, to be it, and then that record caught fire and really “Who Needs a Song,” dismisses the magazine’s made it to where we could actually make a living coveted cover along with other shallow touring as musicians,” he said. “After two years of indicators of success in the music industry. really doing well on that last record, it came time to For Barham and his crew, success was never make another record, and we said, ‘What the hell, magazine covers or limo rides, he explained. we’re doing pretty good, let’s try it again.’” “Ever since day one, the goal was just making The band spent nearly a decade on the road, a living playing music, doing the things we playing bars and music halls, sometimes to scant love doing, and we’re there, we’re successful,” audiences. That all changed after Burn.Flicker. he said. “None of us have jobs, all we do is play Die., when American Aquarium’s following and music, and we can survive comfortably. As far audiences swelled, Barham explained. as I’m concerned, every night we get to play in It also changed the way Barham went about front of a couple hundred people who give a shit writing songs for Wolves, which includes gritty lyrics about what we do—that’s success.” and a newer sound for the group, he explained. That kind of success does come at a price “This record is probably the most personal though. American Aquarium is on tour over record I’ve ever written to date, as far as 200 nights a year, Barham said, and the latethe songwriting goes,” he said. “And the night party scene that follows rock shows has musicianship—the boys really pushed it hard— been a part of his life for longer than the decade we really set out to make something completely the band has been together. different than anything we’ve done before.” The title track of the album, “Wolves,” The opening track on Wolves reveals the new addresses the ravenous demons that accompany sound immediately, with syncopated rhythm the rock ’n’ roll lifestyle but don’t necessarily and an unpredictable bass line reminiscent of have to define it, Barham said. Pink Floyd, only if Pink Floyd had spent more “As of a few days ago I became 11 months time in a country bar. The track keeps a steady sober,” he said. “So many people fall into those thrum with fuzzed out rhythm guitar and biting kinds of vices on the road—whether it be the lead accompanying Barham’s smoky vocals. women, or the drinking, or the drugs—and in The lyrics plumb deeper as well, like in the song my 20s I dabbled in all of that, so this record “The Man I’m Supposed to Be,” which explores has been kind of like a head-clearing for me just themes of identity, blazing a trail in art, and about getting sober. staying true to oneself in the midst of it. The song “It’s one of those things that you’re told you is somber in tonality, with instrumentation that need but you really don’t, you can still be a rock enters like a sunrise, and a pedal steel part that ’n’ roller,” he said. “We put on a rock ’n’ roll show shines with passionate heartache. The combined every night without booze or drugs, and it’s great.” elements result in authentic music, a far cry from American Aquarium performs as part of the electro pop that dominates the charts. Expect Standing Sun Live, the winery’s concert series, to hear real drums, acoustic guitars, and tube on Aug. 17. Doors open at 7 p.m. Get your tickets amps blending harmoniously. now, because there’s no “It’s honest; people want saying how quickly the show Catch the show something they can relate will sell out, as American Standing Sun Live Concerts Series includes to,” Barham said. “You can Aquarium concerts are wont a performance by American Aquarium on to do. ❍ only relate so much to the Aug. 17 from 7 to 10 p.m. at Standing Sun Wines, synthesized party anthems 92 Second St., Buellton. Cost is $10 to $15. More Contact Arts Editor Joe Payne at that we hear on the radio. info: 693-9413 or standingsunwines.com. jpayne@santamariasun.com. “Everyone can relate to
BY JOE PAYNE
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HUMOR
ARTS
In the doghouse With a dog in the family, Krider wonders who is boss
I
’m proud to announce that I’ve been clean for 10 years now. Thank you, yes, it was a difficult accomplishment, one that I think deserves a toast with a cold alcoholic beverage. You see, up until last weekend, my household has been animal free, which means I have been clean; clean from animal byproducts. That is correct, no doggy hair, no doggy poop, and no doggy breath around me. I was a free man, able to travel, leave the house at will, and I have never worried about finding a “dog sitter.” I scoffed at other people’s enormous veterinary bills as “animal owner” problems. It just wasn’t my reality. Of course, that was all before last weekend, the weekend when I was conveniently out of town and my wife, whom I love, and my daughter, whom I would do anything for, went to the pound and rescued a dog. I didn’t know we were getting a dog. I ignorantly thought we were just discussing getting a dog. Apparently the discussion continued after I left town. My opinion wasn’t represented (not that it would have mattered anyway). This ongoing discussion regarding whether or not we should get a dog had been raging on for quite some time at our house. My vote wasn’t just “no,” it was more like “hell no.” My wife was initially on the fence on K-9 ownership
puppy. We have never had any sort of animal so we wouldn’t have the slightest idea of how to take care of a puppy (can you clean one in the dishwasher?). I also convinced my girls that we didn’t need to purchase some sort of purebred dog at an exorbitant price when we and my teenage daughter “really, really, really” could rescue a dog from the pound and save wanted a dog (because they’re cute). Regardless a life. My only instructions to the girls were, of the debate, or the pros and cons of dog “If, and I mean ‘if’ we get a dog, then get one ownership versus cuteness, the ladies voted I would be proud to walk around the block without me. Damn the 19th Amendment to the alongside. Get a manly dog. Don’t get anything Constitution. You already knew how this story was going to end. Women have the right to vote, that fits in a purse.” With those specific instructions (no and now I own a dog. puppy, no purebred, and no dog that would But I don’t own just any dog, I own a dog be mistaken for Paris Hilton’s purse rat) my that absolutely loves my daughter to the end wife and daughter picked out Betty. Betty is a of the earth (which is what she wanted) and a purebred mutt. She has short dog that growls and barks at me brown hair, short legs, and an every time I walk into my own enormous forehead with beady house (which again, is what my eyes. Essentially, she looks daughter probably wanted). like a pit bull mated with a Being unwelcome in my own weiner dog (whose cousin was home, the home I occasionally probably a Chihuahua). We call work hard to fix up, isn’t an her the pithuahua. If it sounds awesome feeling. However ridiculous, that’s because it is. it seems that my feelings are And it is funny to see a dog of no one’s concern. My wife that is only 18 pounds, try to doesn’t care, my daughter protect the house from, of all doesn’t care, and it has been Rob Krider people, the house’s owner. made abundantly clear the dog Man Overboard Theoretically one of the certainly doesn’t give a single great things about getting a wag of its tail about my feelings. dog from the shelter versus a breeder is the All they care about is my daughter’s happiness fact that the pound dog is free. Well, the dog is and the “cute” dog’s happiness. If dad wants free if you think free equals $280. Plus the girls to find happiness, he can try to find it in the dropped another cool $200 at Petco for designer backyard while picking up doggie bombs. water bowls and pink leashes with bedazzled I will admit that I do feel as if I scored one diamonds (another reason for me not to walk victory in “Dog Debategate 2015” because I the dog). So, on the first day of dog ownership convinced my wife and daughter not to get a
C NNECTING EVERYDAY HAPPINESS
I was out nearly half a grand (and I didn’t even know it, since I was out of town). To thank me (well, my bank account, anyway), for rescuing Betty from certain euthanasia at the pound, little Betty crapped in my game room right under the poker table. It suddenly gives a whole new meaning to having a Royal Flush. Because the family brought the dog home while I was away, when I finally came home the dog was confused as to who the heck I was. She had already established her new kennel, and it didn’t include this guy with the bad attitude about little poopy mistakes on the carpet. I was an intruder and thus I was welcomed with growling and laughable barking. It was strange to see so much bravado from an animal I could stomp out while wearing flip-flops. I wasn’t worried though. I had lived in my house a long time. I knew my position as the patriarch of the family was firmly established. Two days into dog ownership and after being snorted at and growled at by a dog with a pit bull attitude and a Chihuahua/wiener physique I realized I was wrong about that. The hierarchy of the house now goes, Betty the pithuahua, my daughter, my wife, my son (who is leaving this new mess for college), and then me. Once my son leaves I will be the only man in the house. Socially I will be at the bottom. And interestingly, social media-wise I am still at the bottom since now, unbelievably, the dog has its own Instagram account. Follow BettythePithuahua and kill me now. ❍
Town C
SANTA M
Krider is thinking if things get worse, it might be him going to the bathroom outside. If you enjoy Rob’s stories check out his novel Cadet Blues available on Amazon.
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SUN SCREEN
Secrets & lies
A
ctor Joel Edgerton writes and directs this mystery thriller about Simon (Jason Bateman) and Robyn (Rebecca Hall), a young couple whose lives are disrupted by Gordo (Edgerton), an acquaintance from Simon’s past who comes bearing a secret that leads Robyn to question how well she knows her husband. (108 min.) Glen: I know Joel Edgerton as an actor in films such as The Great Gatsby, Zero Dark Thirty, Warrior, Animal Kingdom, and Smokin’ Aces. I had no idea he’d written the screenplay for Felony or the story upon which The Rover was based, nor did I realize he’d directed two short films.
GORDO: Writerdirector-actor Joel Edgerton is Gordo, a high school “friend” from Simon’s past who may be more dangerous than he seems.
THE GIFT
What’s it rated? R What’s it worth, Anna? $8.50 What’s it worth, Glen? $8.00 Where’s it showing? Edwards 14
This is his feature-length directorial debut, and it’s an intense, unpredictable ride. Mysteries can be such hit-or-miss affairs, but this one kept me riveted and guessing throughout. The problem with reviewing mysteries is they’re hard to talk about without giving away the secrets. Don’t worry; I won’t, but excuse me if I’m a little vague about what makes this story work. I can tell you this: By the end, expect to see your allegiances shift, don’t be surprised if you have sympathy for someone who’s done some pretty terrible things, and prepare to forgive yourself for misjudging the main characters—all of whom have dark secrets. Just sit back and enjoy feeling confounded. Anna: This is a situation where we must ask you, faithful readers, to trust us. We would be doing you a disfavor by providing the juicy details that keep this dark and twisty story intriguing. I was totally fascinated with the three central characters, and it felt a bit like peering into a fishbowl, watching as things unravel one string at a time. On the surface, Simon and Robyn seem to live a pretty blessed life, though not without their
The Guadalupe Cultural Arts and Education Center provides the history of Guadalupe, and the surrounding areas. This Center holds educational cultural awareness of diverse community groups and ethnic arts, presentations and educational classes.
We invite schools, Clubs and social groups to tour our facility. Artist and presenters are welcome to schedule exhibits.
own troubles. Simon is moving closer to his hometown, a few towns away from where he went to high school. He’s a successful sales executive, while Robyn is a designer whose firm is based in Chicago. Now she’s working remotely from her new home—a beautiful, open, midcentury glass box set high on a hill. This home is the setting for a good portion of this movie, and soon its openness feels more like a trap. I felt both like I was being watched and like I was a Peeping Tom watching these two go about day-to-day activities. Rebecca Hall as Robyn is particularly vulnerable in this role and is quick to not judge things at face value. While Gordo and Simon may have a backstory, neither seems keen on talking about it. Robyn is the one interested in pulling at the threads and seeing what really lies under their muddy past. Glen: Robyn definitely believes that laying bare the truth will lead to healing whatever rift exists between her husband and Gordo, but the deeper she digs, the uglier things become. The whole film asks us to question how well we know those we love. Is Gordo merely socially awkward and in need of some understanding? Is
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BLUE-TONGUE FILMS
SIMON: Jason Bateman stars as Simon, a successful sales executive who may have a secret past.
Simon merely trying to protect his family from a man he believes may be dangerous? And what about Robyn? Why did she and Simon really uproot from their Chicago home? There’s some good writing here from Edgerton, and while you shouldn’t expect a reveal on the scale of The Sixth Sense, his story keeps the surprises coming right until the end. Sure, you could argue these types of mysteries require a certain element of gimmickry, and this film has some of that. But as a director, Edgerton limits the cheap cinematic tricks found in most thrillers, instead relying on a slowly building dread that comes from the characters’ actions and thoughts. This is a fun film that had me on edge right until the end. If
FILM continued page 65
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FILM FILM from page 64 you’re expecting more from a smallish threecharacter story, you’re expecting too much. Anna: I can say that Edgerton did a fantastic job of keeping me in suspense. From the very beginning, my inner monologue posed question after question to itself. When I thought I had something figured out, a loud “Aha!” would ring in my ears, only to be quickly quieted out by a new, puzzling plot change. Is Gordo a creep or maybe just a little bit weird and in need of a friend? Is Simon really the good guy he seems to be, or do these glimpses of a darker character just scratch the surface? Robyn is sweet, but guarded. What lies behind that?
PHOTO COURTESY OF BLUE-TONGUE FILMS
Luckily, as with real life, Edgerton doesn’t tie everything up in a neat little package. Instead, I was left puzzled, even after being given some answers. The thing about a story like this is, when you get an answer, it only leaves you with more questions. The Gift pulls it off pretty well, and is a great film to check out if you’re a fan of that unsettling feeling that a good mystery leaves you with. I look forward to seeing more direction out of Edgerton; he’s set the bar for himself pretty high. ❍
ROBYN: Rebecca Hall stars as Robyn, a workfrom-home designer who begins to question her marriage.
Sun Screen is written by Sun contributor and New Times Staff Writer Glen Starkey and his wife, Anna. Comment at gstarkey@newtimesslo.com.
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STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON Fri-Sun Mon-Thurs
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Pay full price Good, but not great Catch the matinee Rent it Wait for cable, if ever Don’t waste your time
Jamie Bell is serviceable as Ben Grimm, but the movie shortchanges him the most. Toby Kebbell is almost forgettable as Dr. Doom, but that’s the MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE— film’s fault, and while I ROGUE NATION love Reg E. Cathey, here What’s it rated? PG-13 he’s essentially a poor man’s Morgan Freeman. What’s it worth? $9.00 Where’s it showing? Movies Lompoc, Parks Plaza (Really, he’s playing Franklin Storm, but every time he speaks it’s like he’s giving a speech.) Bent on creating a New World Order Fantastic Four shouldn’t be this hard to adapt. For through a series of terrorist attacks, The Syndicate, a malevolent organization comprised of as bad as the Tim Story versions are, they at least highly trained operatives, may achieve its goals … get the sense of fun that embodies the team. Trank and company have no clue what they’re doing as their unless Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and the members iteration is all over the place in terms of tone. Where of the now-disbanded Impossible Mission Force a lot of movies that are hailed as awful at least have disobey orders and eradicate this new threat. some personality (either as light or as mean as it may Helmed by director and co-writer Christopher FROM THE STREETS: Straight Outta Compton details the rough rise of hip-hop in mid-1980s Compton. be), Fantastic Four is devoid of that. It’s also devoid McQuarrie (The Way of the Gun, Jack Reacher), the of character development, action, or plot—ya know, film also stars Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Rebecca fun. Streep actually singing is also a plus. Rick One of the film’s saving graces is the acting. things that make a movie fantastic. (106 min.) Ferguson, and Ving Rhames. Springfield plays the lead guitarist in The Flash, Gyllenhaal’s Billy is inarticulate, insecure, and —Philip Barrett; Sun contributor and you could feel the authenticity. emotionally volatile, and Gyllenhaal disappears into Toward the beginning, Ricki and the Flash had its this role. He’s clearly a talented and dedicated actor, THE FANTASTIC FOUR comedic moments, but those were extinguished in the last and his skills are well matched by Whitaker’s Tick What’s it rated? PG-13 THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E. half hour. This film seemed to forget what it was midway Willis, whose sage advice and training fosters Billy’s What’s it worth? $0.00 through. A comedy? A drama? It ended up being a poor comeback. Tick teaches Billy finesse and strategy. Where’s it showing? Movies Lompoc, Parks Plaza What’s it rated? PG-13 Where’s it showing? Movies Lompoc, Parks Plaza, mixture of both, unfortunately. Well-executed comedy/ The back-and-forth between these two characters After Reed Richards (Miles Teller), Hi-Way Drive In drama movies do exist, but this wasn’t one of them. as well as Billy and his daughter is compelling, and Johnny Storm (Michael B. Jordan), Sue Henry Cavill (Man of Steel) stars as Napoleon Aside from “Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga, all Oona Laurence is fantastic as Leila, who’s grieving Storm (Kate Mara), and Ben Grimm (Jamie Bell) are Solo opposite Armie Hammer (The Social Network) the songs played matched the vibe of the film. “Bad both the literal loss of her mother as well as the teleported to an alternate and dangerous universe, as Illya Kuryakin in director Guy Ritchie’s The Man Romance” was played with the intention of ‘being emotional loss of her father, whose reckless behavior they acquire strange new powers they must harness lands her in social services. to save the Earth from a former friend turned enemy. from U.N.C.L.E., a fresh take on the hugely popular new and hip,’ failing to hit its mark. 1960s television series. The film is set against the Looking back, Ricki and the Flash is an extremely Finally, kudos to Fuqua, whose directorial oeuvre This is what happens when we have a movie forgettable film, with no redeeming qualities besides has included a lot of middling action films (The helmed by people who don’t care. This is what happens backdrop of the early 1960s, at the height of the its live music and a well-executed performance from Replacement Killers, Tears of the Sun, King Arthur, when your director hasn’t the slightest clue what he’s Cold War. (116 min.) —Warner Brothers Streep. Catch this film on cable; it’s not worthy of an Olympus Has Fallen). One element that makes this film doing, writers who choose to ignore every screenwriting experience at the theater. (102 minutes) rule that there is, and actors who are so miscast they superior is the well-articulated fight scenes. You can —Aric Sweeny; Sun contributor almost feel the body blows in your seat. (123 min.) look either lost or upset they’re in a movie. Ladies and RICKI AND THE FLASH gentlemen, this is Josh Trank’s Fantastic Four. —Glen Starkey What’s is rated? PG-13 The biggest sin this movie commits is a poorly What’s it worth? $5.00 written script by Simon Kinberg, Jeremy Slater, and SOUTHPAW Where’s it showing? Parks Plaza director Trank. Three minds, and all of them forgot What’s it rated? R STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON Ricki and the Flash, at its core, is a what simple story structure was. There’s no three-act What’s it worth? $8.50 What’s it rated? R family drama relying on Meryl Streep’s structure here, mainly because there’s no plot here. Where’s it showing? Movies Lompoc Where’s it showing? Parks Plaza Stuff just happens, only because it has to follow the performance and live music to keep the audience Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, The In the mid-1980s, the streets of Compton, engaged for its 102 minute runtime. structure of the comic books. They don’t give these Equalizer) directs Jake Gyllenhaal as Calif., were some of the most dangerous It stars Streep as Ricki Rendazzo, a mother who characters any personality or traits. The dialogue is boxer Billy Hope, whose life falls apart after losing in the country. When five young men translated their gave up her life as a parent to pursue dreams of rock just as atrocious, as Sue Storm says to Victor Von his wife Maureen (Rachel McAdams) to a tragic experiences growing up into brutally honest music ’n’ roll. Her band, The Flash, frequent a small but Doom at one point, “Listen to Dr. Doom over here.” accident and his daughter Leila (Oona Laurence) that rebelled against abusive authority, they gave an faithful bar in California; they’re a favorite among Trank is equally to blame for this catastrophe. is taken by Child Protective Services. He turns to explosive voice to a silenced generation. Following the Like the bland script, Trank chooses to not inject his the locals. Ricki gets a call from her ex-husband trainer Tick Willis (Forest Whitaker) to help turn his meteoric rise and fall of N.W.A., Straight Outta Compton Pete (Kevin Kline), where she’s informed that her movie with any personality. He feels more at home life around. Written by Kurt Sutter (The Shield, Sons tells the astonishing story of how these youngsters daughter, Julie (Mamie Gummer), has gone through just pointing the camera and recording things, as of Anarchy), the film also stars 50 Cent, Skylan revolutionized music and pop culture forever the a breakup and is currently in need of help. With this Brooks, and Naomie Harris. it seems he can’t be concerned with getting solid moment they told the world the truth about life in the news in mind, Ricki hops on a plane to Indianapolis in When we meet Billy Hope, he’s defending his title, hood and ignited a cultural war. (147 min.) performances from his actors or stringing together hopes of restoring connection with the daughter, and and it’s clear he’s a brawler, the sort of fighter whose a coherent movie. Midway through this train wreck, —Universal Pictures family, she left behind. anger propels him to victory. This doesn’t make his Reed Richards escapes from the military facility Thanks to Streep’s performance and the writing, doting wife Maureen very happy, telling him he’ll be where the four are being studied. Whole scenes are discarded, reduced to background videos, and Trank Ricki provides the audience with a somewhat crazy punch drunk in two years if doesn’t start protecting himself. That’s tough advice for a fighter who needs VACATION thinks character development involves chewing gum. and unpredictable character, fitting perfectly with What’s it rated? PG the tone of the film. That being said, she’s really a beating to unleash his inner animal, but he takes Trank has also completely miscast his film, the only interesting and fleshed out role among the it, refusing to sign a $30 million three-fight contract Where’s it showing? Hi-Way Drive-In with most of the actors either out of place or just Remembering fond, childhood memories of his bunch. It seemed as though they would begin to and instead take a break from fighting. God-awful in their roles. Miles Teller looks out of give a character an arc or reason to have screen Of course, his sleazy manager (rapper Curtis “50 trip to Walley World, Rusty Griswold (Ed Helms) place as Reed, like he’s not sure how to handle surprises his wife (Christina Applegate) and two time and then move on to the next. Gummer and Cent” Jackson) pressures him, and after Maureen a movie of this size. Teller is not the straight, sons with a cross-country excursion to America’s Streep, somehow, fail to capture that daughterdies and Billy realizes he’s hemorrhaging money, serious man, as much as this movie wants to tell favorite fun park. (99 min.) ❍ mother bond that exists, despite the fact that they he agrees. His grief over Maureen’s loss, however, me he is. Kate Mara seems to be on a completely —Warner Bros different planet as Sue Storm, reading her lines as are actually daughter and mother. Ricki’s two sons, makes him unfit to fight. He does something stupid Josh (Sebastian Stan) and Adam (Nick Westrate), that gets him banned from boxing, and soon he’s lost if someone is holding cue cards off screen. Much give adequate performances, but nothing special. it all: his fancy home, cars, and most importantly his Sun movie reviews were compiled by interim arts was made about the decision to cast Michael B. editor Hayley Thomas. You can contact her at daughter Leila to social services. What follows is a The scenes that show Ricki’s band and her Jordan as Johnny Storm, but he needs to be an gripping tale of redemption. rocking out on stage are definitely the most hthomas@newtimeslso.com. actual character before we can debate his race.
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FOOD
PHOTO BY DAVID MINSKY
QUEZINE: According to Papa Jay’s owner Jerome Stevens, one of the most popular items at his restaurants is the Big Man Plate, which is a hearty heap of barbecue ribs, chicken, two sides, and two pieces of garlic French bread. Warning: not for the feeble eater.
On the bayou Papa Jay’s Cajun and Creole Quezine brings Louisiana fare to Guadalupe BY DAVID MINSKY
L
ouisiana is 2,000 miles from the Central Coast, but somehow Jerome Stevens brought a little slice of the Pelican State to Guadalupe. Inspired by his roots in Lafayette, La., Stevens
opened a small joint in Guadalupe dishing out both types of popular Louisiana food: Cajun and Creole cuisine. Calling it Papa Jay’s Cajun and Creole Quezine, it’s one of the few restaurants of its kind to grace the area. It could also be the most authentic, at least in Stevens’ eyes, since his family is from Louisiana. “We’re the real thing,” Stevens said. “If there aren’t Southern hands cooking, then it’s not Southern food.” Dishing out plates of barbecue ribs, fried chicken, fried catfish, tri-tip po’boys, jambalaya,
Louisianan, although similar fare is a Southern staple. The real gem is the gumbo, which is made fresh and from scratch, Stevens said. The menu currently lists $8 for a small bowl and $12 for a large, but Stevens said the menu is undergoing a change in prices. Then there are the po’boy sandwiches, which are overstuffed submarine sandwiches that use French bread. Shrimp, meatloaf, sausage, catfish, and even tri-tip are included in this category. Barbecue plates include chicken, pork and beef ribs, tri-tip, meatloaf, and sausage. Desserts are like a page out of a Paula Dean cookbook: sweet potato pie, peach and apple cobbler pie, bread pudding pie, brownies, and chocolate cookies. Another popular item, according to Stevens, is the Southern fried chicken. Papa Jay’s is located in the Main Street Market square across from Kermit McKenzie Junior High School. It may not be much to look at—at least for now—but it keeps the spirit of Louisiana alive on the inside with modest decorations reminiscent of Mardi Gras and music. It’s mainly a takeout joint, although it has a few tables and some chairs for dining in. Prior to opening Papa Jay’s, Stevens’ history includes a stint as a nightclub owner/operator in Lafayette and Hammond (north of New Orleans). Even though Stevens has roots in Louisiana, he grew up on the Central Coast (his father was Eat like you mean it stationed at Vandenberg Air Add a little bit of Louisiana spice to Force Base). your life with Papa Jay’s Southern Quezine Stevens moved back to in Guadalupe. Guadalupe? Yup, you heard California and became a right. Head to the little town on California’s music promoter and producer, most famous byway for some Cajun and operating Jam Time High and fresh-baked pies, Stevens Creole dished up by a man from Lafayette. Rollers Entertainment in Santa is already building a clientele. The restaurant’s located at 4721 W. Main St. Maria. He said he worked During his opening week in Salivating for takeout? Call 219-0660. with big artists such as James late July, Stevens said he served Brown, B.B. King, and had a hand in producing more than 800 people. a collaborative album featuring former Death One of the more in-demand menu items, Row Records rap artist Kurupt and Texas’ Lil’ according to Stevens, is the Big Man Plate, Brian and the Zydeco Travelers. Food became coming with three fall-off-the-bone barbecue a part of his Louisiana lifestyle when he began ribs, two pieces of barbecue chicken, a choice of barbecuing on the street corner. two sides—red beans, potato salad, coleslaw, or Things weren’t always successful at first. mac and cheese—and two slices of garlic French Stevens said it took him three weeks to convince bread. his wife that barbecuing was a worthwhile Speaking of the potato salad, Stevens adds a venture. It was. Eventually, he took Papa Jay’s spice that gives it a familiar taste, yet it’s hard to through the fair and festival circuit, saving pinpoint exactly what it is. Stevens said many money to throw concerts. He was eventually have tried to guess the ingredient. They’ve able to save up enough cash to open a joint in guessed nutmeg or cinnamon, but all have Guadalupe. come up short, he said. Stevens won’t reveal the Papa Jay’s may claim to be the real deal ingredient because it’s a secret. EATS continued page 70 But barbecue rib plates aren’t distinctly
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EATS from page 69 compared to other Cajun or Creole restaurants on the Central Coast, but anyone who moves here from Louisiana will ask: Where’s the crawfish? It’s coming, Stevens said. He doesn’t have them now because they are out of season and must be imported. There’s no set time for it, but the season more or less begins in March and ends in June. That’s when the prices per pound are the lowest.
Stevens considered importing the savory freshwater crustaceans from a farm in Los Angeles, but he reconsidered, saying that he must have authenic Louisiana crawfish. Until then, Stevens and his crew of family members are whipping up Louisiana classics in the kitchen from memory. “We don’t have any recipes here,” Stevens said. m Staff Writer David Minsky can’t wait for crawfish season. He can be reached at dminsky@ santamariasun.com.
PHOTO BY DAVID MINSKY
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Aug. 13 through Aug. 20
Growing gowns
PHOTO COURTESY OF MARTI FAST
Allan Hancock College’s Ann Foxworthy Gallery showcases a collaborative exhibit by female artists Aug. 19 through Sept. 24. Earth Gowns features handmade gowns created with earthy inspiration. The gallery is located at Allan Hancock College, Building L, 800 S. College, Santa Maria. More information is available at hancockcollege.edu.
Tiny town, big history
FILE PHOTO
Guadalupe hasn’t always been such a sleepy little town. Learn more about the historic hamlet during a walk-andtalk event in Guadalupe led by Shirley Boydstun on Aug. 15 from 10 to 11 a.m. meeting in downtown Guadalupe. More information is available at 343-5901.
Quick creators The annual Quick Draw and Arts Festival presented by Santa Ynez Valley Arts welcomes attendees to enjoy food, live music, and dozens of artists creating beautiful visual art on the spot. The free event is Aug. 15 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Mattei’s Tavern, 2350 Railway Ave., Los Olivos. More information is available at 868-0858 or santaynezvalleyarts.org.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PHOTOS BY LITO
Special Events
HOE DOWN WITH THE HOUNDS is a dog show and dinner hosted by Altrusa International Inc., Santa Maria Valley Humane Society, and the Santa Maria Times on Aug. 15 at 5:15 p.m. Veteran’s Memorial Building, 313 W. Tunnell St., Santa Maria. , $45 show and dinner, $25 per dog. More info: 937-2526, fran. rdhap@yahoo.com. QUICK DRAW AND ARTS FESTIVAL is a weekend immersed in artistic expression and live music on Aug. 15 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mattei’s Tavern, 2350 Railway Ave., Los Olivos. Free. More info: 886-0858, info@santaynezvalleyarts.org, santaynezvalleyarts.org. BOOK SIGNING of R Lawson Gamble’s new book on Aug. 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. Bedford Winery, Los Alamos. More info: LAWritersblog.com. POP UP DINNER with Full Of Life Flat Bread on Aug. 15 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Municipal Winemakers, 425 Bell St., Los Alamos. $75. More info: 9316864, jennifer@municipalwinemakers. com, municipalwinemakers.com. SO CAL BULLDOG FUNDRAISER includes handmade pizzas and wine tasting on Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Riverbench Winery, 6020 Foxen Canyon Road, Santa Maria. $20, $5 for members. More info: 937-8340, lperez@ riverbench.com, riverbench.com. ANIMALS IN NEED FUNDRAISER includes a catered dinner and cocktails on Aug. 22 from 3 to 8 p.m. Edward Barn, 1095 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo. $55. More info: ainfund.org. ROTARY HARLEY RAFFLE is raffling off a Harley-Davidson® Vivid Black 2015 Road Glide Special on Aug. 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Santa Maria Harley-Davidson, 2022 Preisker Lane, Santa Maria. $20. More info: 5914964, margie@teammortgage.info, rotaryharleyraffle.com. CR IN THE PARK is hosted by Celebrate Recovery of Faith Life Community Church on Aug. 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nipomo Regional Park, 255 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo. $3. More info: 441-3377. 50 YEARS IN MUSICALS is performed by Gale McNeeley on Aug. 22 at 2 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 311 S. Broadway St., Santa Maria. $10 donation. RUMMAGE SALE is a fundraising effort accepting donations and support on Aug. 23 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Temple Beth El, Santa Maria. Free. More info: 332-3267. AIRPORT UPDATE and announcement of the “Made in the Santa Maria Valley” logo contest winner on Aug. 25 at 7:30 p.m. Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St., Santa Maria. Free. More
Submit online
info: 925-2403 Ext. 812, register@ santamaria.com. SOLVANG WHEELS ‘N WINDMILLS is a fundraiser car show on Aug. 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Copenhagen Drive, Solvang. More info: 688-6112, wheelsnwindmills.com. MOUNTAIN MEN LA PURISIMA MISSION includes cooking, hide preparation and tanning, leather working, rope making, blacksmithing, history, and skills taught by members of the American Mountain men on Aug. 21 through 22 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. La Purisima Mission State Historical Park, 2295 Purisima Road, Lompoc. $6 parking. SOLVANG THIRD WEDNESDAY is a town wide event including a farmer’s market, merchant sales, and the “Midsommer Musik” concert series on the third Wednesday of each month including Aug. 19, and Sept. 16. Call for times Solvang Park, Solvang. More info: 6887529, info@stilettomarketing.com, solvangthirdwednesday.com. WINE AND FIRE WEEKEND is a celebration of wine from the Santa Rita Hills which includes a barn party Aug. 14, a seminar and the Grand Tasting Aug. 15, and a member open house Aug. 16. Contact for times Various locations, Lompoc. More info: info@ staritahills.com. FAMILY DAY IN THE PARK and Healthy Kids Day is by the YMCA on Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Waller Park, Orcutt Road, Santa Maria. Free. More info: 937-8521, ddenham@smvymca. org, familydayinthepark.org. SANTA MARIA HIGH SCHOOL THESPIAN REUNION is a reunion for Santa Maria High School drama students from the Fall of 1968 through the Spring of 1971 on Aug. 13 and 14. Contact for times Santa Maria. More info: smhsthespianreunion@gmail.com.
WORTH THE DRIVE WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS is a series of wine tastings every other Wednesday through Sept. 23 from 4 to 6 p.m. Hotel Milo, 202 W. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara. ANCIENT TREES: DISCOVER BRISTLECONE is a learning experience about these living monuments through Aug. 15 from 1 to 2 p.m. SLO Botanical Garden, 3450 Dairy Creek Road, SLO. , $10, $5 for members. More info: slobg.org. FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL is the place to enjoy your favorite street food while listening to live music on Aug. 14 at 5 p.m. Avila Beach Resort, 6464 Ana Bay Rd., Avila Beach. $20 to $30. More info: avilabeachconcerts.com. TRAILS ‘N’ TAILS includes one free admission per leashed dog, dog vendors, dog caricatures, and more on Aug. 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, 1212 Mission Canyon Road, Santa Barbara. More info: sbbg.org. STRAND: UNDER THE DARK CLOTH
Visit the Sun at santamariasun.com/calendar.php to submit events. Submissions are edited by Calendar Editor Annie Heisler and included at her discretion. Contact her at aheisler@santamariasun.com. Please include specific dates in the description box, with a text limit of 250 characters. Deadline for submission is one week before the issue in which the listing would appear. Events may appear in print up to 10 days before they happen. View the entire events calendar online at www.santamariasun.com.
is a documentray about the life of Paul Strand on Aug. 17 at 7 p.m. SLO Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., SLO. $7 donation. More info: sloma.org. STONE SOUP MUSIC FESTIVAL is designed to celebrate diversity through music, food, and more on Aug. 22 from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Aug. 23 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ramona Garden Park Center, Grover Beach. More info: 4891488, aggbchamber.com. MARDI PAWS DOG PARADE is a part of the Stone Soup Music Festival and Street Faire on Aug. 23 at noon Grover Beach. More info: 489-1488, office@ aggchamber.com.
Concerts CONJUNTO PRIMAVERA will perform their greatest hits on Aug. 13 at 8 p.m. Chumash Casino, Hwy 246, Santa Ynez. $30. More info: chumashcasino.com. CONCERTS ON THE COURSE presents the Nataly Lola Band on Aug. 13, Urban805 on Aug. 20, and Unfinished Business on Aug. 27 at 5 p.m. Blacklake Golf Resort, 1490 Golf Course Lane, Nipomo. Free. More info: 343-1214. OSULLIVANS IRISH PUB hosts a concert featuring Green Jelly with opener The Dogons on Aug. 15 at 9 p.m. O’Sullivan’s Pub, 633 E. Main St., Santa Maria. More info: 925-0658, osullivanspub.net. STANDING SUN LIVE presents American Aquarium on Aug. 17 from 7 to 10 p.m. 92 Second St., Buellton. $10 to $15. More info: 691-9413, candia@ standingsunwines.com. CONCERTS IN THE PARK offers an afternoon of music by some of the best bands on the Central Coast, including Steppin’ Out on Aug.16, Unfinished Business Aug. 23, and the Drive-In Romeos on Aug. 30. Call for times Santa Maria. Free. More info: 925-0951, Ext. 260, cityofsantamaria.org. BLACKLAKE GOLF RESORT presents its Summer Concert Series featuring World’s Finest Apples on Aug. 19, and the Crisptones on Aug. 25. Call for times Blacklake Golf Resort, 1490 Golf Course Lane, Nipomo. More info: 3431214, Ext. 400, blacklake.com.
WORTH THE DRIVE SLO BREW presents Creed Bratton of The Office on Aug. 14 and The Mighty Fine on Aug. 15. Call for times SLO Brew, 1119 Garden St., SLO. Prices vary. More info: 543-1843, info@ slobrewingco.com, slobrewingco.com. 50 YEARS IN MUSICALS is performed by Gale McNeeley on Aug. 15 at 7:30 p.m. Steynburg Gallery, 1531 Monterey St., SLO. $10 donation. STORKE TOWER RECITAL presents Wesley Arai and Margo Halsted on Aug. 16 and Aug. 23 at 2 p.m. UCSB, Santa Barbara. Free. More info: music.ucsb.edu. ARROYO GRANDE VILLAGE CONCERT SERIES is presenting “Broadway on the Bandstand!” on Aug. 16, Central City Swing on Aug. 30, and Dulcie Taylor on Sept. 13. Call for times Rotary Bandstand, E. Branch St. 117 1/2, Arroyo Grande. More info: 473-2250, ArroyoGrandeVillage.org. SIZZLIN’ SUMMER CONCERT SERIES presents the Crisptones on Aug. 16, the
HAPPENINGS continued page 74
Special Events . . . . . . 73 Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Recreation . . . . . . . . . 74 Health . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Clubs and Meetings. . .75 Concerts . . . . . . . . . . .73 Dance Lessons. . . . . . .74 Learning . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Barbecues . . . . . . . . . .75 Spiritual. . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Nightlife . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Kids and Family . . . . . .74 Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Farmers Markets . . . . .75 www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 73
Aug. 13 through Aug. 20
WHAT’S HAPPENING HAPPENINGS from page 73 JD Project on Aug. 30, Cadillac Angels on Sept. 6, The Brass Factory on Sept. 13, Cuesta Ridge on Sept. 20, and Big Daddy’s Blues Band on Sept. 27 from 3 to 6 p.m. Ramona Garden Park, 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach. Free. SWING SHIFT BAND will be playing on Aug. 21 from 7 to 10 p.m. Shell Cafe, 1351 Price St., Pismo Beach. More info: swingshiftband.net. CAL POLY ARTS AND OTTER PRODUCTIONS presents Jake Shimabukuro on Aug. 15 at 8 p.m. Performing Arts Center, Cal Poly, SLO. More info: 756-4849, pacslo.org.
Nightlife SUMMER CONCERTS at Cottonwood Canyon Winery happens every last Friday through Sept. 26 from 6 to 9 p.m. Cottonwood Canyon Winery, 3940 Dominion Road, Santa Maria. Free. More info: 937-8463, danielle@cottonwoodcanyon.com, cottonwoodcanyon.com. RADISSON HOTEL is offering live entertainment including Juan Marquez Aug. 14 through Aug. 15, and the Mix from Aug. 21 through Aug. 22 and Aug. 28 through Aug. 29. Call for times Radisson Hotel, 3455 Skyway Dr., Santa Maria. More info: 928-8000. LUCIA’S WINE CO. presents live music from Ron Miller on Aug. 14, Free Spirit on Aug. 15, Harvest Hounds on Aug. 21, Two Left Feet on Aug. 22, and Ron Miller on Aug. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. Lucia’s Wine Co. Tasting Room, 126 East Clark Ave., Orcutt. More info: 332-3080. D’VINE WINE BAR AND BISTRO is featuring Santa Rosa Band on Aug. 15, Jerry Stickel on Aug. 19, Amy Obenski on Aug. 22, Jerry Stickel on Aug. 26, and Teddy Davenport on Aug. 29. Call for times D’Vine Wine Bar and Bistro, 107 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. More info: 430-8356, dvinewinebarandbistro.com. HOT AUGUST NIGHTS kicks-off with Teddy Spanke, the Fourcasters, Fulltones, Out of the Blue Band, and DJ Totem on Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez. $15, $10 in advance. More info: 6864785. STANDING SUN LIVE CONCERT SERIES includes performances by American
Aquarium on Aug. 17, Cody Canada on Aug. 19, and Travis Meadows on Aug. 27. Shows happen from 7 to 10 p.m. Standing Sun Wines, 92 Second St., Buellton. $10 to $15. More info: 6939413, candia@standingsunwines.com, standingsunwines.com.
Stage INDOOR/OUTDOOR is a feline and human comedy by Kenny Finkle, includes dinner and a show on Aug. 22, Sept. 12, Sept. 26, Oct. 10, and Oct. 24 at 5 p.m. Village Country Club, 4300 Club House Road, Lompoc. $45. More info: 7352281, LompocCivicTheatre.com. LOMPOC CIVIC THEATRE presents its production of Indoor/Outoor for five performances Aug. 22 through Oct. 24 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Stone Pine Hall, 210 South H St., Lompoc. More info: 735-2281, lgm805@gmail.com, lompoccivictheatre.com. PCPA THE PACIFIC CONSERVATORY THEATRE presents its production of Man of La Mancha plays through Aug. 16 at the Marian Theater. Peter and the Starcatcher plays Aug. 21 through Sept. 13. Call for times Marian Theatre, 800 S. College, Santa Maria. $29.50 to $39.50. More info: 922-8313, pcpa.org.
WORTH THE DRIVE INTO THE WOODS is presented by Chameleon Productions through Aug. 15 at 7 p.m. Clark Center, 487 Fair Oaks Ave., Arroyo Grande. More info: 4899444, clarkcenter.org. THE SOUTH COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY presents a Historic Readers Theatre production of The Face of the Clam shows Aug. 15, 22, and 29. Shows begin at 2 p.m. IOOF Hall, 128 Bridge St., Arroyo Grande. More info: 489-8282, southcountyhistory.org. SYLVIA is a modern romantic comedy by A.R. Gurney showing Aug. 21 through Sept. 6 on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. SLO Little Theatre, 888 Morro St., SLO. $15 to $30. More info: 786-2440, boxoffice@ slolittletheatre.org, slolittletheatre.org. THE GREAT AMERICAN MELODRAMA presents its production of La Rue’s Return showing through Sept. 19. A Four-Legged Fortune shows through Sept. 20. Showtimes are
Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 3 and 7 p.m., and Sundays at 6 p.m. Great American Melodrama, Highway 1, Oceano. More info: 489-2499, info@ americanmelodrama.com.
Dance Lessons NEW DANCE CLASSES including ballet, tap, and hip-hop through Sept. 6. Call for times Everybody Can DANCE, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. $45 per month. More info: everybodycandance. webs.com.
Kids and Family SANTA MARIA VALLEY DISCOVERY MUSEUM is hosting Super Sunday every Sunday all day. Also happening every Wednesday is Preschool Patrol, every Thursday is Passport Thursday, every Friday is Fit Friday, and every Saturday is Sci. Saturday; all at 11 a.m. Discovery Museum, 705 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. More info: smvdiscoverymuseum.org. LOMPOC THEATRE PROJECT and the Lompoc Recreation Division presents a screening of Back to the Future as part of the Movies Under the Stars series on Aug. 14 at dusk Ryon Memorial Park, O Street and Ocean Avenue, Lompoc. More info: lompoctheatre.org. MICHAELS CRAFTING EVENTS are available at Michaels everywhere and includes Family Crafternoon on Aug. 15, Make it with Michaels Workshop on Aug. 27, Perler Backpack Dangler on Aug. 15, Pencil Topper on Aug. 22, and Bookmarks on Aug. 29. Call for times Michaels Arts and Crafts. Prices vary. More info: 214-379-7000. TRI VALLEY RADIO CONTROL MODELERS invites youth between 10 and 19 to fly radio control airplanes on Aug. 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Unocal Event center, 4040 Hwy 101, Santa Maria. Free. More info: 720-0248, james.mckean2@verizon.net. NIGHT LIGHT THEATER will be showing Peter Pan on Aug. 18 at 6 p.m. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa PHOTO COURTESY OF DENNIS SMITHERMAN
Maria. Free. More info: 925-0994. CRAFTING AFTERNOON is an opportunity to decorate a treasure chest, paint a wind chime, and more on Aug. 22 at 4 p.m. CovenTree Books and Gifts, 722 E. Main St., Suite 106, Santa Maria. $7 to $10. MOVIES IN THE PARK invites all to bring a lawn chair and watch a great movie with family and friends, including The Sandlot on Aug. 15 at Pioneer Park, Veterans’ Memorial Park, Santa Maria. More info: 925-0951, Ext. 260, cityofsantamaria.org. THE SANTA MARIA PUBLIC LIBRARY offers Night Light Theater including a screening of Cinderella on Aug. 18 at 6 p.m. Santa Maria Public Library, Altrusa Theater, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. More info: 925-0994, dhildinger@cityofsantamaria.org, cityofsantamaria.org. THE SANTA MARIA PUBLIC LIBRARY holds a movie night with a screening of In the Time of the Butterflies on Aug. 19 at 5:30 p.m. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland, Santa Maria. More info: 925-0951, Ext. 827, libraryreference@cityofsantamaria.org, cityofsantamaria.org.
Recreation THE SANTA MARIA VALLEY RAILWAY HISTORICAL MUSEUM features a locomotive, boxcar, caboose, and railroad artifacts and a diorama on the second and fourth Saturday of the month from noon to 4 p.m. Santa Maria Transit Center, Miller and Boone Streets, Santa Maria. More info: 714-4927. VILLAGE DAYS LA PURISIMA MISSION includes demonstrations of grinding acorns, basket weaving, building a tule house, making soapstone beads and dolls, and playing Chumash games on Aug. 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. La Purisima Mission State Historical Park, 2295 Purisima Road, Lompoc. $6. ANNUAL SKATEBOARD COMPETITION is co-sponsored by Surf Connection on Aug. 22 at 11 a.m. Lompoc Skate Park, 125 W. Walnut Ave., Lompoc. $5 per event. More info: 875-8100. CREATE YOUR OWN SOAP with essential oils and fun molds on Aug. 23 at 1:30 p.m. CovenTree Books and Gifts, 722 E. Main St., Suite 106, Santa Maria. $15. AUDITIONS FOR SANTA MARIA CIVIC BALLET will be held on Aug. 29 from 1 to 4 p.m. Everybody Can DANCE, 628 S. McClelland, Santa Maria. Free. More info: 937-6753, everybodycandance. webs.com. RETURN TO FREEDOM presents a Sunrise Photo Safari with Roy Bozarth on Aug. 22 and Sept. 26 from 7 to 10 a.m. Wild Horse Sanctuary, 4115 Jalama Rd., Lompoc.
WORTH THE DRIVE WINE COUNTRY BIKE TOUR is a trip into wine country and happens every Sunday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adventure Company of Santa Barbara, 32 E. Haley St., Santa Barbara. More info: 884-9283.
Live in the park Concerts in the Park features live music by Steppin’ Out on Aug. 16 at the Rotary Centennial Park in Santa Maria. Free. More info: 925-0951, Ext. 260, or cityofsantamaria.org. 74 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
Learning THE LUIS OASIS SENIOR CENTER is holding a BBQ at Rice Ranch on Aug. 13, Silk Artists on Aug. 15, a Dodger Trip on Aug. 16, a How to Upload Photos Work Shop on Aug. 17, a Chronic
Disease Management Course on Aug. 18, Windows 10 Work Shop on Aug. 24, and The Core 4 Exercises on Aug. 27. Call for times Luis Oasis Senior Center, 420 Soares Ave., Orcutt. More info: 937-9750. ESTATE PLANNING BASICS is a seminar presented by Laura Hoffman King, Attorney at Law, on Aug. 14 from 11 a.m. to noon Elwin Russell Senior Center, 510 E. Park Ave., Santa Maria. Free. More info: 925-0951 Ext. 347. CHAINMAILLE LESSONS is available to all students and is happening Aug. 15 at 1:30 p.m. CovenTree Books and Gifts, 722 E. Main St., Suite 106, Santa Maria. $30. INCENSE MAKING is happening on Aug. 15 at 1:30 p.m. CovenTree Books and Gifts, 722 E. Main St., Suite 106, Santa Maria. $15. More info: 709-7663. GUADALUPE WALK AND TALK is lead by Shirley Boydstun, she will share her knowledge of the historic buildings and families on Aug. 15 from 10 to 11 a.m. CRAFTING INSECT HOTELS with basic materials and techniques on Aug. 22 at 11 a.m. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1065 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe. Free. More info: 343-2455, will@ dunescenter.org, dunescenter.org. SUMMER RELAXATION is an art class for pastels on sandpaper happening Aug. 22 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The C Gallery, 466 Bell St., Los Alamos. $150. SUNDAY CONVERSATION SERIES present Susan Gray on Aug. 23 at 2 p.m. DANA Cultural Center, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., Nipomo. $5 donation. More info: danaadobe.org. UCODE TECH CAMPS includes Intro to Programming from Aug. 17 through 21. Call for times UCode, 555 E. Clark Ave., Suite A, Orcutt. Prices vary. More info: 723-0344, andrew@ucode.com, ucode.com.
ONGOING SANTA BARBARA ZOO CAMP introduces kids ages 3 through 12 to the wild world of animals and science. Programs include games, teacher-led workshops, behind-the-scenes visits, up-close animal introductions, hands-on science, and more. Registration required. Camp meets Mondays through Fridays through Aug. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon or 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Santa Barbara Zoo, 500 Ninos Dr., Santa Barbara. $185 to $285. More info: 962-5339, education@sbzoo.org, sbzoo.org.
Art THE VINEYARD SERIES features the textile art of Belinda Hart showing through Sept. 1. Call for times Carivintas Winery, 476 First St., Solvang. More info: 688-7338, rrgomez@hwy246.net. THE DUALITY OF REALITY is an art show by Erica Bartnik happening through Aug. 30 from noon to 5 p.m. Cypress Gallery, 119 E. Cypress Ave., Lompoc. More info: 944-7155, EricaBartnik@gmail.com. A SUMMER COLLECTION is an art exhibit including pastel artists Deborah Breedon, Terrie Taber, and Patricia Watkins showing through Aug. 31 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. More info: 688-7517, GalleryLosOlivos.com. NATURE’S PATTERNS OPENING is celebrating the winners of its annual nature photography competition happening through Sept. 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. Wildling Museum, 1511
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The Sun’s Events Calendar is a free community service. Send your information and photos to Sun Events Calendar, 2540 Skyway Drive, Suite A, Santa Maria, CA 93455. Sorry, but we can’t return any photographs. Events can also be submitted online at santamariasun. com with the online calendar submission form. Ongoing listings run online only, please allow some time for editing and approval. For further information, contact Calendar Editor Annie Heisler at 347-1968 or aheisler@ santamariasun.com. Deadline for information is the Friday before the week you would like the information published. View the entire events calendar online at www.santamariasun.com. Mission Dr., Solvang. Free. More info: wildlingmuseum.org. GUILD ROOM EXHIBIT is a display opening of many talented artists happening through Sept. 2. Contact for times Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. More info: info@santaynezvalleyarts.org, santaynezvalleyarts.org. SOUP. BREAD. FIRE. ART TALK includes soup made by Debra Hood and a talk by Connie Rohde on Aug. 15 at 5:30 p.m. The C Gallery, 466 Bell St., Los Alamos. JASON REYNOLDS presents his photography collection “Explore Lompoc” on Aug. 15 from 1 to 4 p.m. Tasting Room, 1520 E. Chestnut Ct., Lompoc. More info: 736-9032. EARTH GOWNS is a collaborative show by female artists who stitched handmade gowns, exhibit is open Aug. 19 through Sept. 24 with a reception on Aug. 27 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Ann Foxworthy Gallery, Bldg. L-S., Allan Hancock College, Santa Maria. LEGACY AND LOSS is an exhibit opening on Aug. 21 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wildling Museum, 1511 Mission Dr., Solvang. More info: wildlingmuseum.org. THE ARTISTS GUILD OF SANTA YNEZ VALLEY presents Lauren McFarland’s Images of the Central Coast showing through Sept. 3. Call for times Los Olivos Cafe, 2870 Grand Avenue, Los Olivos. More info: 688-7338, rrgomez@ hwy246.net. THE BETTERAVIA GALLERY NORTH AND SOUTH presents the exhibit Revealed: Graphic Design at Allan Hancock College shows through Aug. 28. Call for times Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Center, 511 E. Lakeside, Santa Maria. More info: 5683994, ferri@co.santa-barbara.ca.us, co.santa-barbara.ca.us. EVERY RIVER SEARCHES FOR THE SEA: COASTALS AND CLOUDFALLS is the Artists Guild of Santa Ynez Valley’s featured exhibit by Meg Ricks showing
HAPPENINGS continued page 75
WHAT’S HAPPENING HAPPENINGS from page 74 through Sept. 1. Call for times The Good Life Craft Beer and Wine Cellar, 1672 Mission Drive, Solvang. More info: thegoodlifecellar.com.
ONGOING PLASTIC PAPER. CHEAP BRUSHES. OBSESSION. is a showing of artist and gallery owner Connie Rohde’s work showing through Sept. 16. Call for times The C Gallery, 466 Bell St., Los Alamos. More info: 344-3807, thecgallery.com. TRADITIONS ON THE EDGE is an exhibit by Richard Lindekens happening through Oct. 18, open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Elverhoj Museum, 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang. $5 donation. More info: 6861211, elverhoj.org.
WORTH THE DRIVE THE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY ARTS COMMISSION presents For the People, By the People: Government at Work in Santa Barbara County showing through Sept. 18 on Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Channing Peake Gallery, County Administration Building, 105 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara. More info: 5683994, ferri@sbartscommission.org, sbartscommission.org. GLASS ACT III is featuring art pieces created in glass by SLO County artists through Sept. 30 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Gallery at the Network, 778 Higuera St., Suite B, SLO. More info: 788-0886, laurel@laurelsherrie.com, thegalleryatthenetwork.com. HAVANA: THE CITY THAT TIME FORGOT is presented by the SLO Museum of Art through Aug. 30 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. SLO Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., SLO. More info: 543-8562, rleduc@ sloma.org, sloma.org. PASSIONATE WOMEN is an exhibit of six inspired female artists happening through Aug. 31. Call for times Art Central Gallery, 1329 Monterey St., SLO. Free. More info: 747-4200, artcentralslo. wordpress.com. CORRIDAN GALLERY SHOW is a special preview exhibitation for SBSA Fourteenth Annual Studio Tour happening through Sept. 6 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Corridan Gallery, 125 N. Milpas St., Santa Barbara. Free. More info: 966-7939, corridan-gallery.com. LIGHT PLAY AND ABSTRACT CITY is a film series presented by Peter Bloom and Colin Gardner happening on Aug. 13 and Aug. 20 at 5:30 p.m. Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara. Free. NEW EXHIBITION OPENING RECEPTION features artists Spanky Anderson and Linda Loebs on Aug. 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. Gallery at Marina Square, 601 Embarcadero, Suite 10, Morro Bay. More info: 772-1068. BLOOM PROJECTS features artist Yara El-Sherbini at the opening reception on Aug. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara, 653 Paseo Nuevo, Santa Barbara. Free for members. More info: 966-5373. THEN THEY FORM US is a contemporary art show featuring a diverse selection of artists on Aug. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. MCA, 653 Paseo Nuevo, Santa Barbara. Free. More info: 966-5373, mcasantabarbara.org. MORRO BAY ART ASSOCIATION is hosting the opening of the Annual Juried Show on Aug. 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. Art Center, 835 Main St., Morro Bay. More info: 772-2504.
Aug. 13 through Aug. 20
KIDS EYE VIEW is an annual showcase of children’s art happening Aug. 21 through Sept. 20. Call for times SLO Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., SLO. Free. More info: sloma.org. SAN LUIS OBISPO MUSEUM OF ART presents From His Sketchbooks featuring drawings by Ken Christensen through Aug. 16. Call for times San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad St., SLO. More info: 543-8562, sloma.org. THE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART presents the satellite exhibit Magic Mountain showing through Jan. 31. Regular hours Hotel Indigo, Santa Barbara. Free. More info: 966-5373, press@mcsantabarbara.org. THE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY ARTS COMMISSION presents the exhibit “Ray Strong: Shared Vision-Common Ground” showing through Feb. 18. Call for times Santa Barbara City Hall, De La Guerra Plaza, Santa Barbara. More info: 568-3994, ferri@sbartsscommission. org, sbartscommission.org. SANTA BARBARA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY features the exhibit Ray Strong (1905-2006): Artist in Residence showing through Oct. 4. DEEP shows through Sept. 7. Call for times Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol, Santa Barbara. More info: 682-4711, Ext. 116, sbnature.org. THE SANTA BARBARA MUSEUM OF ART presents The Shape of Things to Come by Moholy-Nagy and Wandering through the Negative: The Photographs of Herbert Bayer showing through Sept. 27. Call for times Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara. More info: 963-4364, kcarl@ sbma.net, sbma.net.
Health NUTRITION AND DIABETES EDUCATION CLASSES are scheduled with Clinical Dietician Stacey Bailey, happening every Friday through Aug. 14 from noon to 1 p.m. and Mondays from 11 a.m. to noon Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital, 2050 Viborg Road, Solvang. More info: 694-2351. BASIC YOGA WORKSHOP is meant to build strength and flexibility, happening every Wednesday through Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. Yoga for Mankind, 130 N. Broadway, Suite B, Orcutt. $59. More info: 680-6542, vicki@yogaformankind. com, yogaformankind.com. QIGONG is an ancient Chinese health care system that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intention; classes will meet every Tuesday through Aug. 25 at 6:30 p.m. CovenTree Books and Gifts, 722 E. Main St., Santa Maria. $15 per class. AMPUTEE AND CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP shares experiences, information, & resources that help us resolve many common issues happening Aug. 15 through Sept. 19 at 11 a.m. Rabo Bank Community Room, 1110 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt. More info: 937-4432, ccpeergroup@yahoo.com, ccpeergroup.org. EMBRACING THE CHANGE: YOGA FOR MENOPAUSE will show how to use our yoga practice to cope with some of the symptoms, risk factors and side effects on Aug. 23 at 1 p.m. Yoga for Mankind, 130 N. Broadway, Suite B, Orcutt. $35. More info: 680-6542, vicki@yogaformankind. com, yogaformankind.com. YOGA AT WALLER PARK is great for children and adults alike, happening Aug. 30 at 3 p.m. Orcutt. Free. More info: 680-6542, vicki@yogaformankind. com, yogaformankind.com.
ONGOING YOGA WORKOUT WITH GINA improves fitness and flexibility every Wednesday through Sept. 18 from 7 to 8 p.m. Everybody Can DANCE, 628 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. $45 per month. More info: 937-6753.
Barbecues CHICKEN BARBEQUE FUNDRAISER is going toward books and materials for the library, happening on Aug. 22 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Santa Maria Public Library, 421 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria. $8. More info: 925-0994 Ext. 503. BREWS, BLUEGRASS, AND BBQ is an evening of craft beer tasting matched with appetizers from the grill and bluegrass music on Aug. 22 from 5 to 8 p.m. Santa Maria Brewing Company, 115 Cuyama Lane, Nipomo. $25 donation. More info: 925-1555, mason@santamariabrewingco. com, santamariabrewingco.com.
Farmers’ Markets LOMPOC OLDE TOWN MARKET will be a different theme each week, with a farmers market, car cruises, food booths, and more every Friday through Aug. 21 from 5 to 7 p.m. 100 Block S. H. St., Lompoc. Free. More info: 736-4567, chelsea@lompoc.com, lompoc.com.
Clubs and Meetings ALTRUSA INTERNATIONAL CLUB MEETINGS happen the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Bethel Lutheran Church, 624 E. Camino Colegio, Santa Maria. Free. CITY COMMITTEE COMMUNITY SPEAKER EVENT features Drug Abuse Awareness and Prevention on Aug. 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. Veterans’ Memorial Community Center, 313 W. Tunnell St., Santa Maria. Free. More info: 925-0951 Ext. 414. CLIMATE ACTION PLANNING CONFERENCE will include keynote speaker Salud Carbajal happening Aug. 13 through Aug. 14. Contact for times Cal Poly, SLO. More info: planning.calpoly.edu. OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS meetings are held every Saturday from Aug. 22 through Oct. 17 at 9:30 a.m. Bethel Lutheran Church, 624 E. Camino Colegio, Santa Maria. Free. More info: 596-5033, contact@ centralcoast.oar2.org, oacentralcoast.org.
Spiritual SPIRITUAL READERS including tarot, psychic, archangel, astrology, theta healing, and spiritual counselors available Aug. 13 through Sept. 24. By appointment CovenTree Books and Gifts, 722 E. Main St., Suite 106, Santa Maria. Prices vary. BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH offers Sunday worship service at 9:30 a.m. followed by Adult Bible class at 11 a.m. Children’s Sunday school is available. The Aug. 16 sermon is titled “The Greatest Thing Since Sliced Bread.” at 9:30 a.m. Bethel Lutheran Church, 624 E. Camino Colegio, Santa Maria. More info: 9226601, office@bethelsantamaria.org, bethelsantamaria.org. ❍
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Take to the sky The Tri Valley Radio Control Modelers invites youth between 10 and 19 to fly radio control airplanes on Aug. 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Unocal Event Center, 4040 Highway 101, Santa Maria. Free. More info: 720-0248 or james.mckean2@verizon. net.
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Get your copy A book-signing event with R Lawson Gamble and his new book Zaca is Aug. 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Bedford Winery, Los Alamos. More info: rlawsongamble.com.
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Medieval fashion statement Chainmaille Lessons are available to all students and happens Aug. 15 at 1:30 pm. at CovenTree Books and Gifts, 722 E. Main St., Suite 106, Santa Maria. Cost is $30. More information is available at 709-7663.
www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 75
The Classies Are Customers Looking For Your Business Here? HOMES FOR SALE US HOME REALTY AD
KEEP IT CLASSY–FOR FREE!
If you’re a private party, run free classified ads for Sales & Auto/Boat sections online & in print! Check us out online at CLASSIFIEDS.SANTAMARIASUN.COM
WE WANT YOUR BUSINESS TO BE FEATURED! CALL (805) 546-8208 ext. 213 RE ACHIN G 167,0 0 0 RE A DE R S F RO M PA S O RO BL E S TO LO M P O C W EE K LY
RENTALS
Ask Your Realtor
COMMERCIAL
(805) 546-8208 x213
When you need results you need a “Buyers Specialist.” Selling Properties, Making families happy., URealtor Patrick & Nancy Rodriguez, 805-364-2802
714 E. Chapel #D
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
The #1 property management service, an investment in your future. Plus Property Management, 421 E. Betteravia, Santa Maria, 805-928-4320
Office Space,
Strength In Numbers
More Millennials Living With Family Despite Improved Job Market
ROOM & ROOMATES
ALL AREAS ROOMMATES. COM - Lonely? Bored? Broke? Find the perfect roommate to compliment your personality and lifestyle at Roommates.com! : (AAN CAN)
Visit our web site and search listings by Property Type, Town, Number of Bedrooms and/or Price!
www.plusmanagement.net
SANTA MARIA (805) 928-4320 $3695 4748 Quarter Horse Trail – 3 + 2, Orcutt Estates cstm single stry hm w/many upgrades incl kit w/high end appls, sub zero fridge, cstm lighting thru-out, F/P, frml D/R, office/den, F/R, cstm wine rack, 3 car att grg, yd incl built-in F/P & BBQ, incl grdnr. $2195 1016 Murray – 5 + 2.5, river Oaks 2stry hm w/2 mstr stes, approx3000sqft, open kit w/ss appls, att 3 car grg, yd w/grdnr. $1995 616 Morro Drive – 3 + 2, Pioneer Vlg single stry hm w/frml L/R, D/R, wd flrs, F/P, lg mstr ste w/yard access, grdnr inc. no pets. $1895 949 Country Hill Road – 3 + 2, Orcutt single stry hm w/newer flrg/paint, newer kitchen ctrs, att 2 car grg, yd w/grdnr, No Pets. $1850 703 Koval – 3 + 2, Rolling Hills single stry hm on crnr lot incl F/R, D/R, eat-in kit, new paint thru-out, ldry rm, att 2 car grg, yd w/grdnr, no pets. $1795 175 Foxenwood – 2 + 2.5, Foxenwood 2stry condo w/2 car att grg, u/s loft, lg bdrms, frml L/R, D/R, F/P, lg patio, greenbelt & pool privs incl. $1795 735 Damask – 3 + 2, Pacific Crest single stry hm w/ open flrpln, newer crpt/paint, kit w/granite ctrs/cherrywd cabinets, all appls, F/P, yd w/grdnr. $1695 1542 Jensen Ranch – 3 + 2, Orcutt single stry hm, open kit equipped w/all appls, D/R, L/R, util rm incl w/d, private prk access/walking trails, yd w/grdnr, no pets. $1695 4066 Hilltop #B – 3 + 2.5, Knollwood 2stry condo in Orcutt w/remod’d kit w/ss appls, granite ctrs, wd flrs, ldry rm w/hkups, 2 car att grg, lg bdrms u/s, sm yd, no pets.
Call (805) 928-4320 for additional Santa Maria houses and condos.
LOMPOC VALLEY (805) 735-2492 $2500 468 St. Andrews Way – 4 + 2.5, Beautiful Country Club hm on 1 acre w/patios overlooking park like setting. Remod’d kit w/islnd, upgraded appls, (fridge not incl). F/R, , Fomal L/R, D/R, sep lndry rm w/w&d incl., att grg w/extra pkng & RV pkng. No Pets. $2400 628 Celestial Way – 4 + 3, 2stry hm w/F/R d/s + bns rm u/s. Islnd & Pntry in kit. F/P in F/R off kit. Attic converted to play room off bns rm. Located on cul-de-sac w/extra lg yd w/yd care incl. Cabillo High School District. $1700 1209 N. “C” Street – 3 + 2, Northeast area hm in Cabrillo High School District, all appls incl in country kit, F/P, 2 car attch grg. Yd care incl. $1600 1417 Glen Ellen Lane – 3 + 2, Home in Glen Ellen subdivision w/comm pool and rec area. Lg L/R with F/P, formal D/R and F/R of kit. Refrigerator incl. W/D hkups in att 2 car grg. Yd care incl. $1350 1016 E. Walnut – 2 + 2, Eastside Townhome in small complex. Single stry w/F/P in spacious L/R. All appls incl, 2 car att grg. W/D located in grg. Private patio off kit. Water pd. Comm pool & tennis courts avail for all residents. $1200 304 E. Airport #B – 3 + 2, Charming duplex w/new pnt, lino & crpt thru-out unit. New wndw covrngs. Remod’d kit. Inside lndr rm w/hkups. Patio & crprt. Water pd. Located close to schools & shopping.
Office space in centrally located Times Square Building: $805 511 North “H” Street, Suite C 767 sq.ft., includes water & trash paid.
LANDLORDS OR OWNERS...
Pulling your hair out with management problems? We can make owning investment property hassle free. Call us today for a free consultation!
Commercial Space Available
Visit us online for more listings – Updated Daily www.plusmanagement.net 76 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
America’s 18- to 34-year-olds are less likely to be living independently of their families and establishing their own households today than they were in the depths of the Great Recession. This has occurred despite the fact that unemployment is down, full-time work is up, and wages have modestly rebounded for young adults in the U.S. labor market. Making sense of the story: · The 18- to 34-year-old population has grown by nearly 3 million since 2007. But the number heading up their own households has not increased. · In the first third of 2015 about 42.2 million 18- to 34-year-olds lived independently of their families. In 2007, before the recession began, about 42.7 million adults in that age group lived independently. · In 2010, 69 percent of 18- to 34-year-olds lived independently. As of the first four months of this year, only 67 percent of millennials were living independently. Over the same time period, the share of young adults living in their parents’ homes has increased from 24 to 26 percent. · The number of young adults heading their own households is no higher in 2015 (25 million) than it was before the recession began in 2007 (25.2 million). · The decline in independent living since the recovery began is apparent among both better-educated young adults and their less-educated counterparts. For example, today 86 percent of collegeeducated 25- to 34-year-olds live independently of their families. In 2010, 88 percent of this demographic lived independently. · Trends in living arrangements also show no significant gender differences during the recovery. However, in 2015, 63 percent of millennial men lived independently of family, compared with 72 percent of millennial women. · Most of the decline in independent living since 2007 can be attributed to more young adults living in their parents’ homes. In the first third of 2015, 26 percent of Millennials lived with their parents. At the beginning of the recovery in 2010, 24 percent of young adults were living with parents.
If there is ever a question you need answered, feel free to contact me directly! George Murphy, Broker/Owner Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate 805-596-4449 premierinfo@coldwellbanker.com
PR E M I ER R E A L E STATE
Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated
Santa Maria, Los Olivos, Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay/Cayucos, Paso Robles
www.cbpremieronline.com
Did You Know the
Water Paid. $600 mo
714 E. Chapel #A Office Space, Water Paid. $700 mo
220 S. Palisade #101 Office Space. $2,500 mo
SECURITY DEPOSITS ARE SAME AMOUNT AS RENT, EXCEPTIONS APPLY
PLEASE DO NOT DISTURB TENANT! Make Owning Property, A Hassle-Free Investment.
Greco Realty Inc.
805-922-0599
118 W. Fesler, Santa Maria Lic. #00892126
is Online? Keep up with Community, News, Arts, Events, and More.
santamariasun.com
TIN
W
NE
G
LIS
MUST SEE! Absolutely Stunning 3 bedroom, 1 bath impeccably maintained with quality upgrades throughout, Gorgeous original Hardwood Floors, Unique White Granite kitchen counters with matching Breakfast nook table, High-end Stainless Steel GE Refrigerator & Range, Large Pantry, Warm & Inviting Custom Brick Fireplace, Forced air heating, Completely insulated in the Attic, Sub-flooring underneath the home & all exterior walls including the garage, Large Beautifully landscaped South Facing Backyard with Covered Patio including Apricot & Avocado Trees and Fully automatic sprinkles, Stick built 10’x14’ Shed with comp. roof on a cement slab, Located in a neighborhood of very well kept home on the East side of Mid-Santa Maria & Close to Miller School, Hancock College, Malls, Shopping, Etc. as well as The Highly Desirable Carriage District…it’s Not often an outstanding opportunity like this comes along…Do Not Wait Call your Favorite Realtor today & See for yourself. $329,900 (MA538) TIN
W
NE
Beautiful! Sycamore Court condo with open floor plan and expanded kitchen. Lots of personal touches throughout, including custom interior paint, celiing fans in every room, new windows and doors in most of the unit, new fire door, security screen, rain gutters and new exterior paint. This one will not last!! Make an appointment to view it today! $247,000 (LY173)
G
LIS
Gorgeous Updated Orcutt home with beautifully landscaped backyard for entertaining. Home has been updated with fabulous touches throughout and has newer roof, brand new water heater and gorgeous smooth trowel stucco finish. Home has also had all electrical replaced and updated as well as all plumbing updated to copper. Make an appointment to view this awesome property today!! $379,990 (LO553)
Cute & Cozy 3bd, 1.75ba Condo located in Old Town Orcutt. Updated Kitchen. Close to schools, shopping, and restaurants. Open floor plan that feels spacious with your own private patio. Green belt behind you that give you a private setting. $249,990 (VI151) E IC D! PRUCE D RE
Updated Home Don’t Wait! Updated Home
This will go fast!!! Very nice 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom in desirable planned unit development in Orcutt. Great backyard with no bordering rear neighbors with lovely view of the foothills, perfect for entertaining! Close to schools, shopping and easy freeway access to Vandenberg or downtown Santa Maria. $295,000 (WA140)
Beautifully upgraded Kaufman & Broad double wide home with attached fully finished garage. Very light and bright with 3 solar tube lights. Living room has French doors to covered patio area with nice grassy area. Dining area and breakfast bar, laminate flooring in dining and hallway. Updated bathrooms. Master bedroom has a large closet with mirrored doors. Oversized shed with electricity. Home includes a washer, dryer and refrigerator. Lovely, very clean home!! Call agent for appointment. $66,900 (CL165) E IC D! PRUCE D RE
Updated Home Tanglewood 3bd, 2ba with newer laminate floors and paint throughout. Open floor plan with an Updated kitchen - including cabinets, sink, faucet, back splash, under cabinet lights and microwave. Newer high speed cable wiring throughout the home. Nice backyard that is perfect for entertaining with tons of fruit trees. Storage shed in the back yard that can be used as a workshop. RV Parking,All new insulation in the attic. Tons of storage in the garage. $274,990 (MY353)
Super Clean Manufactured home in desirable Quail Meadows East. Popular two bedroom plan with large yard for entertaining. Very well maintained and clean. $112,990 (QU345)
4869 S. Bradley Ste. 102, Orcutt · 922-0660 · See all our listings at www.WhyUSAProperties.com www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 77
The County is hiring! JOBS WANTED
MAKE $1,000 WEEKLY!! - Mailing Brochures From Home. Helping home workers since 2001. Genuine Opportunity. No Experience Required. Start Immediately www.theworkingcorner.com : (AAN CAN)
SCHOOLS & TRAINING
We have a loan for every home ...simple as that. Call today! ®
Ɣ Jumbo Ɣ CalHFA
Ɣ FHA/VA/Conventional Ɣ Down-Payment Assistance
Ɣ Investor Ɣ FLIPs
AIRLINE CAREERS - begin here - Get started by training as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 800725-1563 : (AAN CAN)
Excellent Service | Great Rates | Experience You Can Count On! Patrick Chandler
Direct (805) 361-7202
patrick.chandler@imortgage.com Kate Ferguson NMLS ID 632885
Direct (805) 361-7203
kate.ferguson@imortgage.com Shelley Williams NMLS ID 328481
Direct
(805) 361-7205
shelley.williams@imortgage.com NMLS ID 274466
imortgage 2605 S. Miller Street, Suite 106 Santa Maria CA 93455
Direct (805) 361-7203
Direct (805) 361-7202
patrick.chandler@imortgage.com Elzy Garcia , Hablo Español NMLS ID 632885
Direct
(805) 361-7204
elzy.garcia@imortgage.com NMLS ID 241451
Jose Jaime, Hablo Español Direct
(805) 361-7208
jose.jaime@imortgage.com NMLS ID 818036
Rates, terms, and availability of programs are subject to change without notice. Licensed by the CA Department of Business Oversight CRMLA 4131040. Corporate NMLS ID 174457. All rights reserved. 03102014
CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENTS CA License #00471733
HOUSES FOR RENT available
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC.
www.abacusrents.com
) COMMERCIAL
702 Crilene, 3BD/2BA, $1850 available 9/1
Centrally Located on the NW corner of Lincoln and Mill, this Office space is available now. Price negotiable, Modified Gross, property owner pays for building taxes and insurance, water, trash, and grounds maintenance included. The two suites share a waiting room.
4905 Tonya, 3BD/2BA, $1750 available 9/1
201 W. Mill Street - A Reception, three offices, supply room and storage.
2210 Cottage, 3BD/2BA, $1600 available 8/15
201 W. Mill Street - B Reception, five offices, two supply rooms, storage & tech closet.
CONDOS FOR RENT
Call Richard to schedule a showing.
SANTA MARIA
available
Coming Soon!
805.349.1992 900 E. Main St. Ste 101 Visit our web site for applications:
centralcoastinvestments.net
www.sbcountyjobs.com
Start Date:
Immediate
Location:
San Luis Obispo, CA
Compensation:
Commensurate with experience
Position Description: Project Manager will oversee a variety of new and ongoing projects for the organization and will be responsible for the following: researching and following up on grants and other funding opportunities for the organization; conducting industry research; reviewing documents and responding to government leaders, local businesses and entrepreneurs; writing and presenting reports; managing related projects; assembling together groups of business leaders; organizing monthly meetings; communicating project status to various boards of directors and senior executives; presenting information to business leaders, government officials, and community members. Required Qualifications and Specialized Skills: Demonstrated strong interpersonal communication skills; ease when publicly communicating with a variety of audiences; advanced written and verbal proficiencies; demonstrated excellence in time management and organization; high levels of technical proficiency in computer software programs such as Microsoft Office and Quick Books; ability to prepare general marketing materials such as flyers, brochures, newsletters, etc.; knowledge of principles for performing in a customer-oriented and service-centered, professional manner; flexibility and responsiveness to client and organizational needs; ability to develop specific goals, organize work, and prioritize tasks in order to accomplish clients’ objectives and those of the company; keen attention to detail. Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree; at least two years of relevant experience fostering business relationships, overseeing company projects, writing and presenting reports, researching funding opportunities, and managing grants; demonstrated ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to co-workers, clients, and the public. Special Conditions: This position requires reliable transportation for work-related matters with mileage reimbursed. All employees are expected to treat the public, our clients, and members of the business community, and each other with the utmost respect at all times. Employees must have excellent telephone etiquette, show initiative, work independently; offer input regarding solutions to problems, act with the highest integrity, assist others, contribute as needed, tolerate stressful situations, and work well with others.
To apply, send a cover letter and resume to: OPPORTUNITYinSLO@gmail.com CARS
Your Neighborhood Honda & Acura Specialists, Friendly, knowledgeable and honest, Landis Automotive, 435 Marsh St., SLO, 805-544-9198
CARS
Your Premier Automotive and Maintenance Center: Full Service Mechanic Shop, No appointments necessary, Econo Lube N’ Tune & Brakes, 2258 S. Broadway, Santa Maria, 805739-8888
Hunter Green, Black interior, 37,500 miles, runs like new, 5 speed, all service records, $22,000/ obo, Call - 661865-3357
(805) 361-9499 Fax (805) 934-1190 VEHICLES WANTED
CASH FOR CARS - Any Car/ Truck. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Call For Instant Offer: 1-888-420-3808 www.cash4car.com : (AAN CAN)
Holly’s Hopechest: Open Every Sat. 9am-4pm, 920 Olivera St., Guadalupe, New T-shirts, locally handmade pottery, New Items each week. Come see what we have!
Keep Your Car Well Maintained! Certified Auto Repair, 393 Marsh St. SLO, 805-543-7383 Smog Check - Pass or Don’t Pay, Family owned and operated since the early ‘80’s. Orcutt 76, 100 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt, 9375340
GARAGE SALES
Garage Sale Friday and Saturday! August 7th & 8th and August 14th and 15th! 933 Ritchie Rd. Grover Beach, Ca 93433.
2008 MUSTANG BULLIT
2540 Professional Parkway, Santa Maria
78 • Sun • August 13 - 20, 2015 • www.santamariasun.com
Visit our website for a list of current openings:
Permanent, full- or part-time (with a minimum of half time required)
Available Soon!
www.abacusrents.com
Passionate About Making a Difference? CPR and FIRST AIDE Training, IMG- Industrial Medical Group, 3070 Skyway Dr. #106, Santa Maria, 805-9228282
The County employs over 4000 employees in jobs from entry level to executive!
Position Type:
APARTMENTS
DRE Lic # 01280393
NEED A NEW CAREER OR A WAY TO SUPPLEMENT YOUR INCOME? California Holistic Institute School of Therapeutic Massage Classes starting soon 805-786-4808 www.chieducation.com
PROJECT MANAGER San Luis Obispo, CA
+ HOUSES &
admin@abacusrents.com
“Habitat for Humanity ReStore open every Thurs., Fri., & Sat. 10-12pm in Santa Maria. 2039 Preisker Lane, Suite E. 354-7105
POSITION AVAILABLE
Kate Ferguson
kate.ferguson@imortgage.com Patrick Chandler NMLS ID 328481
SCHOOLS & TRAINING
For Strong Results
MASSIVE GARAGE SALE
Saturday August 15th. 8am 12pm 72 Valley View Drive, Pismo Beach, CA 93449. Collectibles and much more!
HOUSEHOLD
Everything for Hearth and Home, Fireplaces, Kitchen Aid, BBQ tools, and more! Forden’s Complete Fireplace Shop, 857 Monterey St., SLO, 805-543-1090
FOR SALE: CHEF RAMSAY COUNTERTOP OVEN
New. $50 obo 805-937-3618
FOR SALE: FRY’S COMPUTER
With tower. $50 obo 805-9373618
FOR SALE: NEW OFFICE CHAIR
Black, on wheels, adjustable. $40 obo 805-937-3618
FOR SALE: VITAMIXER
HAULING & CLEAN-UP JT’S HAULING
Trees, Debris, Garage Clean Up, Moving and Recycling. Call Jon 805-440-4207 KILL BED BUGS! Harris Bed Bug Killers/KIT. Available: Hardware Stores. Buy Online/Store: homedepot.com
LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Get Great Results from Quality Products! Only use the best! Central Coast Landscape Products 445 Prado Rd., SLO, 805-595-DIRT, cclandscapeproducts.com
MISCELLANEOUS WANTED NEW OR USED APPLIANCES & FURNITURE, ETC..
I just moved to Lompoc, ca I need a stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, built in microwave, queen mattress set, dining table & chairs, etc.. It would be really great if the appliances were all the same color, preferably stainless steel or black. I also need help with condo repairs, stucco work, wall paper removal, painting, etc.. I’m a disabled Veteran living on a low income, with a lot of credit card debt. I can’t afford to pay for the above items and go deeper in debt. Please help !!! 661-333-7746
Extra blade, plus dry mix container. $275 obo 805-937-3618
CLEANING SERVICES SPORTING GOODS
One stop shop for all the outdoor lovers. The Mountain Air : 667 Marsh St. SLO, 805-543-1676
CLEANING SERVICES
Keep It Clean
Carpet Cleaning & Janitorial For ALL Your Cleaning Needs 3 Room Special $69.95 (up to 350 sq.ft.)
MISCELLANEOUS ORIGINAL HANDCRAFTED ART axehaka.wix.com/axehaka$75 artbyhaka@gmail.com
***NOTICE***
SUNFLOWER MASSAGE SPA
1017 S BROADWAY, SANTA MARIA, CA 93454
(805)332-3013 7 DAYS A WEEK, 9:30AM -10:30PM
805-714-2461
LEGAL SERVICES
Marketplace
Home & Garden santamariasun.com
ELECTRICAL Before you buy Solar get a quote from Pacific Energy Company, No Pressure, No Gimmicks, No EVC Charge, 2121 Santa Barbara Street, SLO, 805-544-4700 Proper Maintenance of an air conditioner, heat pump, or furnace is more then simply keeping it clean. Smith Electric, 805-621-5000, smithelectric.com
LAWN & GARDEN LAWN AND LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE
Best Prices! Call for a FREE estimate: 805-5506448
Grand Opening Best Massage
$10
with this coupon
1208 W Cook St, Santa Maria, CA 93458 805-346-8600
$39 One Hour Massage
Licensed Attorney. Free Legal Advice. Art: 805-710-4091
PREGNANT? THINKING OF ADOPTION? - Talk with caring agency specializing in matching Birthmothers with Families Nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 866-413-6293. Void in Illinois/New Mexico/Indiana : (AAN CAN)
MEDICAL MARIJUANA EVALUATIONS Central Coast Medical Recommendations New: $85 ¡ Renewal: $70 (within 30 days of expiration)
805-481-1181 agpotdoc.com
GROW
YOUR BUSINESS
M–F 10am-2pm and 3-5pm Walk-Ins Welcome
405 East Branch St, Ste. 100 Arroyo Grande (in the Village/easy parking)
MEDICAL MARIJUANA EVALUATIONS SLO’s only
Adopt - Male Beige Chihuahua, 8 yrs old, healthy, obedient, cute, Call -805-868-9192 or 805-598-7108 Adopt Male Brown Chihuahua- 3 yrs old, healthy, loving, fenced yard! Call -805-868-9192 or 805-598-7108 New Client Wellness Exams FREE - Central Coast Pet Hospital Emergency: Open 24/7, 1558 W. Branch St., Arroyo Grande, 805-489-6573
MISCELLANEOUS
NATURAL PRODUCTS
by a licensed physician with 30 yrs experience on the Central Coast
Grand Opening!
PETS
Never Drink and Drive! Avoid Jail Time - Call Jeffery Stulberg : 805-544-7693, 1042 Plam St. 2nd floor, SLO
For Strong Results
ALL ADS IN THIS CATEGORY ARE FOR THERAPEUTIC NONSEXUAL MASSAGE ONLY!
Free Phone Estimates!
HAND CRAFTED DOLLS Horror and Zombie inspired $100 facebook/artbyhaka
NATURAL PRODUCTS
MASSAGE THERAPY
Chinese Acupressure Foot & Body Massage
COUNSELING & SUPPORT
Addicted to Prescription Drugs? Your not ALONE. Call for help today, so you can focus on getting back to the things you care about. Coastal Prestige Medical Services, 805-201-9135 Pregnant? We are here to support you! Compassionate, Nonjudgmental, Confidential, Tree Of Life Services - 805-5436000, www.treeoflifepsc.com
PHYSICIANS
I-693 Exams - Arroyo Grande & Atascadero 805-473-4739
MISCELLANEOUS
Ocean Acupressure 805-322-8223
DENTISTRY
Considering Dental Implants? Dedicated staff has over 40 years experience in restorative and implant dentistry, Grover Beach Dental, 1558 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach, 805-4898904 Go Ahead and SMILE! 22 years experience, same day appointments, most insurances accepted, SLO Dental Practice - 1551 Bishop St. Ste D420, SLO, 805-547-7010 No More Dentures! You’ll never have to remove your teeth again. Regain your confidence and smile, Creekside Dental, 121 W. Branch St., AG, 805481-6617
GET CABLE TV, INTERNET & PHONE - with FREE HD Equipment and install for under $3 a day! Call Now! 855-602-6424 : (AAN CAN)
New Patient Special
STRUGGLING WITH DRUGS OR ALCOHOL? - Addicted to PILLS? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 800-9786674 : (AAN CAN)
(805) 922-4352
COSMETIC SURGERY
Board certified dermatologist, provides high quality skin care services using the most advanced techniques and state-ofthe-art technology. Every treatment is customized to fit each patient’s needs. Moats Laser & Skin Care: 252 East Plaza Dr. Ste 200, Santa Maria, 805928-1000 Losing Weight doesn’t take magic, it takes Science. - Vascular, Hernia and Cancer consultations seen within 1 week. Advanced Surgical Associates, 805-7068378, www.sbmis.com
$5 Off with this ad!
Specials: $45 1-Hour, $30 1/2-Hour
Open Daily 9am-9pm Walk Ins Welcome
FREE CLEANING 308 N. McClelland Santa Maria CA 93454
By A Local Primary Care M.D.
OPEN MON-FRI Call For An Appointment
805.550.7009 4251 S. Higuera St. #401 San Luis Obispo
For All Medical Needs & Pain WE NOW CARRY
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805-720-0292
DISH TV - Starting at $19.99/ month (for 12 mos.) SAVE! Regular Price $34.99 Call Today and Ask About FREE SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 844-5974481 : (AAN CAN)
VIAGRA - 100mg. CIALIS 20mg. 40 Pills + 4 FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement! Discreet Shipping. Save $500. Buy the Blue Pill Now! 1-800-404-1271 : (AAN CAN)
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Open daily 9am – 10pm
COMPASSIONATE CARE CLINIC
S Ma unny ssa ge
Now Accepting Credit Cards
Rose Petal Touch
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Call today to advertise in this section! (805) 546-8208 ext. 213
Prop 215 & SB 420 Compliant
Full Body Massage & Spa ¡ Body Scrub ¡ Table Shower
GRAND OPENING
805-868-9872 | 805-348-1287 604 E. Chapel, Santa Maria
ACUPRESSURE
Sun Acupressure Body Massage | Hot Stone
$10 OFF
w/this ad
Open 9am to 9pm
805-925-8259 1411 E Main St. Ste 201 Santa Maria
(805) 546-8208 x213
classifieds. newtimesslo. com www.santamariasun.com • August 13 - 20, 2015 • Sun • 79
MEMORY CARE HOMES Security, comfort, dignity, and caring for adults with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other forms of memory loss
Passionate About Making A Difference Also offering: DMV Physicals · Physical/Post Hire Evaluation Treatment of Industrial Injuries · Drug Testing Immigration Physical Exams · 10 Hour OSHA Training
Free inspection and cleaning of your jewelry 1140 E. Clark Avenue Suite 190 Santa Maria, CA 93455
Industrial Medical Group of Santa Maria Valley
Paul E Christensen, M.D., M.R.O. Medical Director Eric Greenberg, M.D., FACEP
Tel: (805) 925-1678 Our Store Hours Tues - Fri: 9:30-5:30 Saturday: 10-3 Mention this ad for a Military discount
3070 SKYWAY DR. #106, SANTA MARIA
(805) 922-8282
Botox $10 Per Unit Laser Hair Removal · Chemical Peels Photofacial Rejuvenation Laser Skin Surfacing · Fillers
SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS Please consider coming to one of our support group meetings. It is extremely helpful to talk with not only professionals, but others who are coping with a loved-one and memory loss. NEXT MEETING 2ND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH, 6 – 7:30PM AT THE BARN, 4630 SONG LANE
4620 & 4630 Song Lane
Off Solomon Road Near Old Town Orcutt EMAIL margie@slresources.com CELL 805 / 310-6996 WEB magnoliacare.net
Mon. - Fri. 10-6 Sat. 10-5 • Sun. 10-4
156 Broadway St. Orcutt • 805-332-3152
CPR & FIRST AID TRAINING
NEW STUDENTS:
Simply Summer
30 days for $40 unlimited yoga & pilates class
KITCHEN & BAR
Moats Laser & Skin Care
Located in Old Town Orcutt
Michael W. Moats, MD
(805) 680-6542
130 N Broadway St
Board Certified Dermatologist 525 East Plaza Dr. Suite 200 | Santa Maria
850 S Bradley Rd. #D1 · Orcutt, CA
www.moatslaser.com
www.backporchflowers.net
805.928.1000
805.938.1965
Found a job I love. Added 5 days to the week.
yogaformankind.com
The
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property management service Linda Kirchoff
Your comfort is our greatest concern!
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL
First Examination • x-ray • tEEth ClEaning ~ All for $89.00 ~
Find that perfect position with Select Staffing.
mark l. Davis, DDs gEnEral DEntistry
433 12th Street Paso Robles
2011 S Broadway Ste N · 805-928-9667 Apply online: www.selectstaffing.com
1 HR. MASSAGE: $35
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For Delivery or Pick up
(805)348-1100
40 MINUTE FOOT MASSAGE: $20
805-238-1118 805-489-8444
421 E. Betteravia, Santa Maria · 928-4320
www.coastcadental.com
Exper t & Guaranteed Jewelr y Repair & Restorations
Come Bounce With Me! Birthdays • Parties • Special Events Socks required!!
Mon & Wed 10-7 • Tues & Thurs 10-6 Fri & Sat Hours Vary Please Call
DISCOVER THE WORLD’S GREATEST PIZZA!!
Located in the Food Maxx Center
268 S. Halcyon Rd. Arroyo Grande
1140 E. Clark Ave. Ste 120 Santa Maria (Albertson’s Shopping Center)
ALL DONE IN HOUSE FROM SIMPLE TO COMPLETE RESTOR ATIONS.
805-937-7788
2530 • H S Broadway
Santa Maria, Ca. 93454
EPIC MASSAGE 327 Town Center West Shopping Center, SM Across from the mall in the Big 5 Shopping Plaza
805-925-8880
MP Pizza Tuesday
Extra Large 1 Topping Pizza
$7.99 +tax
(additional charges for extra toppings up to three, strictly red sauce)
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SINCE
19 79
fi schersjewelry@verizon.net Hours: Tues. - Fri. 10am-5:30pm & Sat. 10am-5pm
225 East Main Street Santa Maria, CA 93454 805-928-4108
805.347.1968 www.santamariasun.com
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