For more information, please visit: www.calpolyorgfarm.com, e-mail: orgfarm@calpoly.edu or call: (805)756-6139.

To sponsor a child, teen, or family, simply call the Family Care Network at 781-3535.

Visitors can come by to check out the trees, hear live Christmas music, and bid on their favorites. Additional silent auction items, such as gift certificates and special gift baskets, will also be available. Bidders should plan to bring their “sleigh” to safely carry their tree home immediately following the event. All proceeds will directly benefit Prado Day Center, the only daytime service center for the homeless in San Luis Obispo County. Three hundred and sixty-four days of the year, Prado offers homeless men, women and children an opportunity to eat breakfast and lunch, take showers, look for employment, and obtain medical and other services. The center provides a necessary resource for homeless families, especially those with young children, who would otherwise be forced to stay out on the streets or in their cars all day until overnight shelters open.

Please join us in our holiday celebration. For further information, please call Lee Gulliver at 528-8291. Thank you.

For more information on BBBS, call (805) 781-3226 or log onto www.slobigs.org.

The City of Pismo Beach Recreation Division proudly presents the Senior Social for the month of December. The dance will be held on Monday, December 1 , 2008 from 1:00 until 3:30 pm. Come and meet new friends. Enjoy an array of snacks, beverages and dancing to our live band “Twist of Limen”. Located at the Pismo Beach Veterans Hall, 780 Bello Street. Admission $5.00. Includes Everything. Exact Change is appreciated.

For more information visit www.pismobeach.org or call the Pismo Beach Recreation Division at (805) 773-7063

Location: KCBXnet computer training Room. 4100 Vachel Ln. SLO, at intersaction of Vachel Ln. and S. Higuera.

Topic: Elizabeth McGregor will present "Written Communication for the Attention Age: Five Ways to Add Impact to Your Writing". Elizabeth is a communication specialist, freelance writer, marketing consultant, speaker, and the principal of Fine Lines Communications.

Her presentation will focus on how communication has changed since the "Information Age". We are now bombarded with information and have much less time to read it. So how do we keep our audience engaged while clearly conveying our message. Elizabeth will share 5 important tips on how to grab and sustain attention:

1) Determine your audience
- who are they and why are they reading?
- Define characteristics of your audience to determine your voice.

2) Establish your core message
- Five reasons to write
- Simplify your main idea; then support it

3) Speak your Reader's language
- Matching tone to content
- How and when to be "conversational"

4) Get your point across
- How layout and design can draw your reader in
- Write tight: cut cliches and redundancies
- Passive vs. Active voice

5) Review your work
- Edit yourself
- Avoid common e-mail blunders

RSVP optional - email reservations@slostc.org or call Adele Sommers at 805-462-2199.

Conductors Helena von Rueden and Adam Kurihara lead the UCSB's Women's Chorus in Francis Poulenc's meditative Litanies à la Vierge Noire and Benjamin Britten's brilliant Missa Brevis for female voices and organ. The newly created Men's Chorus steps unto the Santa Barbara choral scene with an exciting program of sacred and secular 20th century music for male voices, handbells, oboe and piano. Don't miss this exciting event!

For more information, visit their website at www.payitforwardfoundation.org and click on the donations link.

For more information, call 547-2244 ext. 10 or email cconti@supportcenter.org.

• December 2nd , Tues. 6–9 pm, Arroyo Grande Women’s Club 211 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande, CA

• December 3rd, Wed. 6–9 pm, Atascadero lake Pavilion 9315 Pismo Ave., Atascadero, CA

$10 donations suggested — no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

For more information, contact Jessica Steely (805) 466 6737 x203 Jessicas@Semmesco.com

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

SAVE THE DATE! Mark your calendars now! Don’t miss this once a year event that will kick off the holiday celebration in Cambria. Tuesday, December 2nd will be here before you know it and with it the Annual Cambria Festival of Trees, sponsored by the Cambria Chamber of Commerce, at the Veteran’s Memorial Hall in Cambria. Donations of decorated trees are coming in fast. All the money raised from the tree auction will benefit charities selected by tree donors and designers. We are excited that once again our auctioneer is Jill Turnbow, a Cambria local and professional comedian. So plan now for a delightful evening strolling through a winter wonderland. Enjoy delicious foods and fine wines and help local non-profits while you do some holiday shopping. Tickets are $20 each and are on sale at the Chamber office. Get yours early. This event is always a sell out.

Call 927-3624 for information and tickets.

For additional information visit our website at www.pacslo.org.

Director Jeremy Haladyna leads the ECM in "One-of-a-Kinds," a program of curious new music stand-alones. Two works of Santa Barbaran Henry Brant show the more intimate, solo/chamber side of this lately passed giant:Four Traumatics for piano and An Era Any Time of Year, sung by its original dedicatee, Michael Ingham. Also, Tom Johnson's clinically existential Music and Questions and the director's own romp, Only Armadillos They Danced.

Workshop fee: $85 Materials fee: $15*

*Complete info about workshops is available online at www.CorkStopStudios.com under News & Events. You may also email info@CorkStopStudios.com

To reserve your place, payment in full is required. Mail your check to CorkStop Studios, 1250 Judith Lane, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420.

Please include workshop name, email contact and mailing address.

Richard Rintoul conducts "Sacred and Profane" --a musical contrast of Germanic spirituality with French and American sensuality. Felix Mendelssohn's mighty Symphony No. 5, Op. 107 in D Major "Reformation,"Claude Debussy's celebratory Fêtes (Festivals) from Nocturnes and the world premiere of Tim Simonec's arrangement of Dreaming Gypsy by James Sitterly will be featured. Dr. Sitterly, who will appear as violin soloist, was one of the first graduates in violin performance from UCSB and is currently one of the major concertmasters in the Los Angeles commercial recording industry.

Contact information is as follows:
500 Quintana Rd. Morro Bay 93442
Phone 805-772-7358 ext 213
e-mail Justin@fwofmb.com
www.fwofmb.com

La Arcada is located at 1114 State Street next to the Santa Barbara Art Museum and Santa Barbara Public Library.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4

Share the warmth of the Holiday Season on Hospitality Night, Cambria’s annual Village Open House. Santa will be holding tree lighting ceremonies, carols will fill the air, and magicians will be featured, along with decorations, food, fun and festivities everywhere. Pictures with Santa and also the Town Criers add to the merriment. All along Main Street and Burton there’s an air of anticipation and camaraderie enhancing the magic of the season. This year’s event promises to be a year to remember as the community comes together to share the Holiday Spirit in the company of neighbors and friends. Businesses will open their doors, offering refreshments, drawings, prizes and “special deals.” The charming Cambria Village Trolley will also be available along Main Street throughout the evening of fun.

SAVE THE DATE! Thursday, December 4, all along Main Street and Burton in Cambria, CA, 5:30 to 9:00 p.m.

The program at the monthly meeting of the Ca. Native Plant Society.

Carmichael’s presentation will include pictures of local projects and design & build notes he hopes others will find helpful in their garden ventures. He combines the forms of nature and the functions of life to create a landscape which is economically viable, environmentally safe, and socially responsible. He specializes in residential, commercial, and public land use planning—from organic food gardens to native habitat restorations. Carmichael’s team is made up of many Cal Poly horticulture and landscape architecture graduates. They are currently working on several ecological landscape projects from San Luis Obispo County to the San Francisco Bay Area. Carmichael Environmental Carmichael Environmental.

Free pre-show lecture scheduled at 6 p.m.

“To see Doyle’s intensely powerful revival again...is to be reminded of its singular blend of precision, simplicity and humanity.” (Chicago Tribune)

“An event theatre-goers will be talking about for years.” (Wall Street Journal)

For reservations, call 546-3195.

* Rain date December 10th. Registrants will be notified of postponement by phone or email on Thursday, December 4th.

Location:
The Sinton Family’s Avenales Ranch
Avenales Ranch Rd at American Canyon Rd ~6mi SE of Pozo, California
Maps and directions to Avenales Ranch from Hwy 101 may be found online at http://www.mapquest.com/mq/5-UU2uUe*K

Call 922-6966 or toll free 1-866-432-5242, ext. 3252 for more information.

Drop by for:
- Holiday Poinsettias & Gift Plants
- Handcrafted Leucodendron/Balsam Fir Wreaths
- Special products and demonstrations
- Green Acres Lavender Farm’s Lavender Cookies
- Tiber Canyon Olive Oil
- Cooking with Herbs - Demonstration & Samples

Growing Grounds Downtown 956 Chorro Street San Luis Obispo - Across from the Mission

805.544.4967

Holiday Harmony (sponsored by the City of Pismo Beach Recreation Division) will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Downtown Pismo Beach at the Beach Bum Holiday Rental parking lot (off of Dolliver & Pomeroy). Kids will have fun with fresh snow, a bounce house, crafts and cookie decorating. There will also be live music for all to enjoy. Tony Spinelli & Associates has direct communication with the “man in red” and has promised that Santa will be in Santa’s Village on this night! The City of Pismo Beach Recreation Division offers this event free to the public.

The Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony (sponsored by the Pismo Beach Chamber of Commerce) will take place at 6:00 p.m. at the Pismo Beach Pier. Join Santa & Carolers downtown at the Beach Bum Holiday Rental parking lot at 5:30 p.m. before he makes his way to the tree lighting ceremony on a fire truck. Participants can enjoy hot drinks and listen to carols as the tree is lit. A Polaroid picture of Santa will be available at no charge immediately following the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Santa’s Village, as the fun continues in the Holiday Harmony Event!

For more information, please contact the Pismo Beach Recreation Division at 773-7063.

Please call the ticket hotline at 674-8195 to reserve your tickets!!

There will be a rare opportunity for the public to attend and sing-along when The San Luis Obispo Early Music Consortium and The New the World Baroque Orchestra under the leadership of Music Director John Warren presents Handel’s Messiah and other traditional Christmas Carols and music of the season. Sunday, December 7th, 3:00P.M. at the Community Church of Atascadero. Tickets are: Adults: $ 10.00, Children: 5-12 $5.00, Children under 5 free.

This always a very festive and anticipated Holiday event - the previous years have been standing room only concerts. This year to accommodate more people there will also be an “open to the public” dress rehearsal performance for half price on Friday, December 5th, 7:30P.M. at the Community Church of Atascadero. Tickets for the dress rehearsal are: Adults: $5.00; Children 12 and under: Free.

The program will feature selections from Händel’s “Messiah” and other traditional music of the season performed by the combined choirs of the Community Church of Atascadero, Mission San Miguel, guest soloists, and the New World Baroque Orchestra. Also included will be a colorful and rare performance of “Los Pastores”, the old “Shepherd’s Christmas Play” from the era of the early California Missions, as well as selections honoring Hanukkah “The Festival of Light” and Central-California Native American “Winter Solstice Traditions” performed by Tribal Members and Children of the local Salinan Tribe. This fun-filled family event will conclude with a grand finale sing-along carols, and after the Sunday performance, a piñata party for the children and refreshments served (refreshment donations to aid the restoration of Mission San Miguel).

The Community Church is located at 5850 Rosario Avenue. (One block North of Traffic Way, turn onto Rosario at the Police Station, The Church is on the left, a short distance up the hill. A parking lot is available.) This is a fund raiser for the restoration of Mission San Miguel and to support quality live music performances in the North County. Your ticket cost is tax deductible. Tickets are available at the Paso Robles and Atascadero Chambers of Commerce, or at the door. For more information and other ticket pick-up locations please call: (805) 239-3022.

Victor Bell directs the highly popular group which has been featured in concerts, public events and university celebrations.

The ensembles, two big bands and a combo, will show how jazz is being reinvigorated by the next generation, according to Paul Rinzler, director of jazz studies.

Cal Poly student-musicians will perform a jazz arrangement of Van Morrison's "Moondance," a big band funk piece titled "Kickin' and Screamin'," as well as additional contemporary and traditional jazz standards including Duke Ellington's "Don't Get Around Much Anymore."

Tickets for the concert are $10 for the public, $8 for senior citizens and Jazz Federation members, and $6 for students. They are on sale at the Performing Arts Ticket Office from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. To order by phone, call SLO- ARTS (756-2787).

Patrons who buy season tickets to four Music Department events through the Performing Arts Ticket office will receive a 10 percent discount; a 15 percent discount is given to those who buy tickets to five or more events.

The concert is sponsored by Cal Poly's Music Department, College of Liberal Arts and Instructionally Related Activities program. For more information, call the Music Department at 756-2406.

St. Patrick's School
900 West Branch Street
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Thank you for your support and we wish you a Happy Holiday Season!

When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 9 AM - 6 PM

Where: Paso/Templeton area, address given upon registration

To Register go to www.CommunicationFromTheHeart.com, click on registration, print registration page, mail form along with check to address stated. This training presents NVC as developed by Marshall Rosenberg. At this training we will: focus on enhancing Self Empathy skills; offer participants opportunities to practice using the NVC Dance Floors; explore our jackal thinking which leads to disconnection; work with participants' examples; have fun and support one another. The presenters are Kathi Aichner who has been sharing NVC with others for 9 yrs. and Alicia Nowicki who has done so for 3 yrs.

Self Investment: Sliding Scale: $100 - $65

For more info please call Kathi at 805.434.1704

Call 922-6966 or toll free 1-866-432-5242, ext. 3252 for more information.

Please call 237-4741 for more information, or log on to the City of Paso Robles’ web site at www.prcity.com/recreation.

For details, call SWAP, 528-0392.

Train enthusiasts, children, adults, families and kids of all ages are invited to the 2nd Annual Railroad Days Celebration at the Historic IOOF Hall in the Historic Village of Arroyo Grande between 10am and 5pm on Saturday and Sunday, December 6, 7, 13 and 14.

Model trains, storytelling, and films combined with holiday snacks and historic photographs with an IOOF Hall backdrop replicating the historic Oceano Train Depot are back again this year. A sale of Oceano Dunes photographs and a chance to win a trip to the Railroad Museum in Sacramento are also planned during this event sponsored by the San Luis Obispo Model Railroad Association and the South County Historical Society. “We had such a great response last year with nearly 800 hundred people over two days that we decided to have the event over four days this year,” according to Craig Rock, exhibit director of the South County Historical Society. Rock said the event is free but a $2 donation is suggested.

Train and history buffs will enjoy a special train set-up (On30) on the Pacific Coast Railway which historically started in Avila, passed through San Luis Obispo and Arroyo Grande and ended up in Los Olivos. Other train setups include “N”, “O”, and “G” scale trains many with Christmas themes.

Activities at the Open House will include:

• Demonstrations, showing the scope of Gyrotonic® exercises, and offering you a chance to try the equipment out, taking place at 10:15 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• Free Pilates Mat Class at 11:00 a.m. and Gyrokinesis® class at 12:00 p.m.
• Free scoliosis screenings plus learn about new therapies.
• Talk to health professionals, including Christine Wilson, a registered nurse, and Infinite Dynamic’s registered dietician, Lisa Saslove.
• The opportunity to purchase gift certificates for the holidays.
• Raffle for prizes.
• Light refreshments.

The Open House takes place at Infinite Dynamics, located at 811 El Capitan Way, Suite 100, in San Luis Obispo. For more information, call 594-1061. The goal of Infinite Dynamics Gyrotonic, Gyrokinesis and Pilates Studio, is to provide individualized movement therapy sessions as well as educational workshops and classes that support a balanced way of living.

For more information, call 473-4580 or visit www.grover.org.

This free concert given by the Atascadero Community Band will present music celebrating the holiday season in traditional and some not so traditional flavors. Selections will include “Good Swing Wenceslas,” “Deck the Halls with Chips and Salsa,” and a sing-a-long for those inclined. Come and be prepared to enjoy a wonderful performance. Handicapped parking is available.

For more information about this free family event, call 473-7161.

For more information call 528-4530 or visit thenewfivecents.com.

For more information email coastalvoices@aol.com or call 805.937.3416 or 805.934.4880

Start your holiday with classical favorites, “Christmas from Around the World” at the Joyous Sounds of Christmas Concerts on Saturday 12/6/08 at the Mission de Tolsa at 8:00 pm. “We wouldn’t miss it!” and “This concert begins our holiday season!” are the most often repeated phrases for those who have had the pleasure of hearing this world-class choir perform. The beauty of the music will surround you, your family and friends as you listen to the central coast’s premier choir sing the best of classical and folk music from around the world.

Start your holiday with classical favorites, including one of the most popular carol pieces in the world accompanied by harp, and a bit of whimsical cheer that will send you on a memorable Christmas sleigh ride across the globe. You will hear compositions from Great Britain, Israel, Russia, Italy, Ireland and the United States that reflect the pageantry, magic and mirth of the season.

The Vocal Arts Ensemble, a non-profit organization, was established in 1977 and consists of 70 volunteer adult singers performing under the directorship of Gary Lamprecht. Tickets for all of the VAE performances can be purchased directly from the VAE website at www.vocalarts.org or by calling 541-6797. Ticket prices range from $8 to $40, student and senior discount tickets are available. VAE is a non-profit organization. Thank you for your support!

For information, contact greenpoetproject@yahoo.com, or call 805-687-6426.

The University Singers, PolyPhonics and The Early Music Ensemble, conducted by Thomas Davies, will be joined by the Cal Poly Brass Ensemble, conducted by Christopher Woodruff. In addition the Cal Poly Barbershop Quartets and the a capella ensemble Take It SLO will also perform.

A variety of works from the 16th century to the present will be presented. The works include music by 16th-century composers Peter Philips and Michael Praetorius, 19th-century composer Mendelssohn, 20th-century composers Pavel Chesnakov, Randall Thompson, and Vaclav Nelhybel, and music by 21st-century composers Steven Stametz and Stephen Hatfield.

Once again, PolyPhonics will be present a world premiere by Cal Poly composer Meredith Brammeier, titled “A Christmas Lullaby.” This marks the seventh consecutive year that Brammeier has written a work for the Cal Poly Choirs’ “A Christmas Celebration.”

The audience will have an opportunity to join in the holiday tradition of caroling.

Tickets are $10 students, $16 and $19 seniors, $17 and $20 general and are on sale at the Performing Arts Ticket Office from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. To order by phone, call SLO-ARTS (756-2787). Patrons who buy season tickets to four Music Department events through the Performing Arts Ticket office will receive a 10 percent discount; a 15 percent discount is given to those who buy tickets to five or more events.

The holiday concert is sponsored by Cal Poly’s Music Department, College of Liberal Arts and Instructionally Related Activities program.

Please call 546-3195 for reservations.

For 15 years, over 500 families in San Luis Obispo County have benefited from our program of musical instruction and choral performance. CCCC singers have had the opportunity to sing with the San Luis Obispo Symphony, Pacific Repertory Opera, Cuesta Master Chorale and the San Luis Obispo Vocal Arts Ensemble. Our singers are provided with a strong foundation in choral education that awards them the confidence they need to achieve their aspirations in both music and life.

For more information check out our website at www.centralcoastchildrenschoir.org

Steynberg Gallery
1531 Monterey Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
805 547-0278

$10 show / free CD

Bob and Wendy, with Tim Novoa and Travis Harms, will perform songs from their new CD, Ghost of Guadalupe. With members of Virgil Cane (Butch Boswell, David Radmacher, and Adam Farber), and recorded at the Royal Theatre in Guadalupe, CA, Wendy's songs take on a live performance feel and sound. Other contributors include Jude Johnstone, Tim Novoa, Piper Heisig, Bette Byers and Sal Garza. Barry Goyette created the CD package with his unique photography of the remote town and theatre. Ghost of Guadalupe is currently available at Boo Boo Records.

Start your holiday with classical favorites, “Christmas from Around the World” at the Joyous Sounds of Christmas Concerts on Sunday 12/7/08 at the Performing Arts Center at 3:00 pm. “We wouldn’t miss it!” and “This concert begins our holiday season!” are the most often repeated phrases for those who have had the pleasure of hearing this world-class choir perform. The beauty of the music will surround you, your family and friends as you listen to the central coast’s premier choir sing the best of classical and folk music from around the world.

Start your holiday with classical favorites, including one of the most popular carol pieces in the world accompanied by harp, and a bit of whimsical cheer that will send you on a memorable Christmas sleigh ride across the globe. You will hear compositions from Great Britain, Israel, Russia, Italy, Ireland and the United States that reflect the pageantry, magic and mirth of the season.

The concert at the Performing Arts Center will include pieces accompanied by the Forbes Pipe Organ, which will be a glorious sound! At the PAC only: $8 seats for children 6-12 years old. Any seat in the house! The Vocal Arts Ensemble, a non-profit organization, was established in 1977 and consists of 70 volunteer adult singers performing under the directorship of Gary Lamprecht. Tickets for all of the VAE performances can be purchased directly from the VAE website at www.vocalarts.org or by calling 541-6797. Ticket prices range from $8 to $40, student and senior discount tickets are available. VAE is a non-profit organization. Thank you for your support!

The lecture begins at 3 pm, coffee, tea and afternoon cookies and cakes served.

Cost is $5.00 for Art Center members, $7.00 for non-members.

There will be a rare opportunity for the public to attend and sing-along when The San Luis Obispo Early Music Consortium and The New the World Baroque Orchestra under the leadership of Music Director John Warren presents Handel’s Messiah and other traditional Christmas Carols and music of the season. Sunday, December 7th, 3:00P.M. at the Community Church of Atascadero. Tickets are: Adults: $ 10.00, Children: 5-12 $5.00, Children under 5 free.

This always a very festive and anticipated Holiday event.-the previous years have been standing room only concerts. This year to accommodate more people there will also be an “open to the public” dress rehearsal performance for half price on Friday, December 5th , 7:30P.M. at the Community Church of Atascadero. Tickets for the dress rehearsal are: Adults: $5.00; Children 12 and under: Free.

The program will feature selections from Händel’s “Messiah” and other traditional music of the season performed by the combined choirs of the Community Church of Atascadero, Mission San Miguel, guest soloists, and the New World Baroque Orchestra. Also included will be a colorful and rare performance of “Los Pastores”, the old “Shepherd’s Christmas Play” from the era of the early California Missions, as well as selections honoring Hanukkah “The Festival of Light” and Central-California Native American “Winter Solstice Traditions” performed by Tribal Members and Children of the local Salinan Tribe. This fun-filled family event will conclude with a grand finale sing-along carols, and after the Sunday performance, a piñata party for the children and refreshments served (refreshment donations to aid the restoration of Mission San Miguel).

The Community Church is located at 5850 Rosario Avenue. (One block North of Traffic Way, turn onto Rosario at the Police Station, The Church is on the left, a short distance up the hill. A parking lot is available.) This is a fund raiser for the restoration of Mission San Miguel and to support quality live music performances in the North County. Your ticket cost is tax deductible. Tickets are available at the Paso Robles and Atascadero Chambers of Commerce, or at the door. For more information and other ticket pick-up locations please call: (805) 239-3022.

For more information email coastalvoices@aol.com or call 805.937.3416 or 805.934.4880

Northern Santa Barbara County United Way will host the first drive- through Beans & Rice Food Drive on December 9 & 10. Food donations may be brought to United Way from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day. United Way is located at 1660 South Broadway, behind the new Mission Community Bank and adjacent to McDonalds. Our mission is to provide food to numbers of families and individuals throughout Northern Santa Barbara County who are struggling to put food on the table. The food drive will help the Salvation Army bolster their depleted inventories as the demand for food assistance continues to rise faster than donated food supplies. With unemployment rates rising, the need is even greater. Why Rice & Beans? Both rice and beans are widely available, easy to transport and deliver. They are nonperishable and provide a high percentage of protein, complex carbohydrates and fiber. Give food: The perfect gift this holiday season. Every little bit helps.

For information or to volunteer on the 9th or 10th, call 922-0329.

Venue: Montessori Children's School, SLO.

SB Central Library, 40 E. Anapamu St.

Workshop fee: $85 Materials fee: $15*

*Complete information about these workshops is available online at www.CorkStopStudios.com under News and Events. You may also email info@CorkStopStudios.com

To reserve your place, payment in full is required.

Mail your check to CorkStop Studios, 1250 Judith Lane, Arroyo Grand,. CA 93420.

Please include workshop name, email contact and mailing address.

People’s Self-Help Housing is hosting a “First-Time Home Buyer Education Seminar” on Wednesday, December 10, 2008 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at our office, Peoples’ Self-Help Housing, at 3533 Empleo St in San Luis Obispo. The free seminar will present different alternatives and loan options for first time home buyers. It is facilitated by Brian Kerrigan, Housing Counselor for Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH). A graduate of the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Kerrigan holds a degree in business administration/finance and most recently worked as a loan officer for Chase Bank. Kerrigan is multi-lingual and is fluent in Spanish. PSHH is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide affordable housing and programs leading to self-sufficiency for low-income families, seniors, and other special needs groups on California’s Central Coast. Since its establishment in 1970, PSHH has assisted over 1,000 individuals or families build their own self-help home. To reserve your space call People’s at (805) 781-3088 x440. For a complete schedule of First Time Home Buyers Seminars or Home Foreclosure Prevention Seminars in Central Coast communities, visit www.pshhc.org.

Forecasts and Delivery Formats from the National Weather Service

From fires to floods, Santa Barbara certainly has its share of extreme weather. Come find out what the government is doing about it—in terms of forecasting, that is. Our speaker will discuss National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts that are available on the Web, through GIS applications, and through Google Earth maps. He'll address the NWS winter forecast, and its prediction for whether we are in for a La Niña or El Niño. You can ask questions about weather, warnings, and more. Eric Boldt, Warning Coordination Meteorologist National Weather Service (NWS) Forecast Office, Oxnard. Eric is responsible for the weather office's severe weather watch and warning program, which covers a four-county area from Los Angeles County to San Luis Obispo County. He also serves as the primary contact and outreach coordinator between the NWS and local users of weather services, such as the media, emergency managers, first responders and the general public.

Just in time for the holidays, experience a Salon in the grandest home of all – La Casa Grande. Among gigantic Christmas trees and hundreds of poinsettias, this Salon will feature an enriching tour of the lush textiles and fabrics displayed throughout Hearst Castle. Guests weave their way behind the scenes with Muna Cristal, principal lecturer on the Castle’s tapestries and carpets. Experience the Castle decked out for the holidays! Purchase tickets at a cost of $75.00. For more information, visit www.friendsofhearstcastle.org or call (805) 927-2138 for information and reservations.

Sensei Larry Rhodes, owner of Koei-Kan Karate-Do, will conduct the first hour. He’ll briefly discuss a few of the basics of the meditation process, from both a psychological and spiritual perspective. The remainder of the hour will be devoted to several methods of meditating. Sensei Rhodes will spend a few minutes on each, from progressive relaxation, working with a mantra, to working with visual imagery, just to name three. Sensei Rhodes will guide attendees into a meditative state by these means.

Psychotherapist Sattie Blanton, MA, MFT, will teach the second segment. Sattie has been a therapist and hypnotherapist for 25 years. Her approach, following on the preceding themes, will likely use music, as well as more visual imagery. While Sensei Rhodes’s approach is a bit more instructional, the latter program will be more direct, guided, and in-depth. Again, the program is open to all, at no charge.

For more information, you may call Sensei Rhodes directly at (805) 748-5085; Sattie Blanton may be reached at (805) 528-6808. Directions to Koei-Kan Karate-Do are available at the website, koeikanslo.com; or by searching Google Maps: “Koei-Kan San Luis Obispo.”

The program is inspired by the experiences of four current and former dance students who studied or volunteered in Africa, and pays tribute to the 50th anniversary of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, a company that has brought African-American culture and American modern dance to the world’s stages. Creative director Erlyne Whiteman takes her cues from Alvin Ailey and from Martha Graham, exploring the role of movement in cultural exchange. Other choreographers are Westmont student Laura Mercaldo and graduate Leah Benson. The stories that inform the program come from dancers like alumna Grace Chisholm, who spent three years after graduation working in South Africa to promote AIDS education, sustainable micro businesses, and support systems for orphans. Guest artist Linda Kazibwe will highlight the performance. Raised in Uganda and Kenya and currently residing in Los Angeles, Kazibwe is a dancer and educator who recently presented a workshop at Westmont, “An Exploration of African Dance Form.” A talk-back with Kazibwe and other participants will follow the Saturday, Dec. 13, performance.

Admission is $10, $5 for students.

For more information or to reserve tickets, call the theater box office at (805) 565-7040.

The program continues the theater department’s theme this season, “Think globally, act locally.”

Space is limited, so please call the member services desk at 543-8235 to sign up.

Contact 238-4413 or visit earthtonesgifts.com/events.html for more informatio.

Come join us for the sounds of the season on Dec. 12th and 13th at 7 p.m.!

With a World Premiere by Chris A. Bowman

Presented by The Santa Ynez Valley Master Chorale Youth Chorale and Orchestra

Under the direction of composer/conductor Chris A. Bowman, The Santa Ynez Valley Master Chorale, Youth Chorale and Orchestra are proud to present three holiday concerts, Friday, December 12 at 7:30; Saturday, December 13 at 7:30; and Sunday, December 14 at 3:00. The concerts will be at The Church at the Crossroads in Buellton.

The first half of the program will feature the Christmas Cantata by Daniel Pinkham; Gloria by John Rutter; Laudamus Te by Francis Poulenc; a World Premiere – Domine Deus by Chris Bowman; and Dona Nobis Pacem by Johann Sebastian Bach. Domine Deus is a duet for two sopranos, chorus and orchestra. Singing the duet will be Cathleen McIsaac and Amy Calvert. The second half of the program will include a variety of carols from around the world and also feature the Youth Chorale. The orchestra will present two instrumental numbers – Pastorale by Arcangelo Corelli and Copasetic by Chris Bowman.

The concerts, Dona Nobis Pacem, will offer a wide variety of music with something for everyone! Come and be a part of this inspiring holiday celebration with the Santa Ynez Valley Master Chorale, Youth Chorale and Orchestra. General admission tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and children under 12. Tickets are available at the door, from all Chorale members, and at the Book Loft in Solvang. For more information, please call 805/350-4241 or visit www.syvchorale.org

The Arroyo Grande High School Theatre Ensemble will present IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, a live stage version of the classic Frank Capra holiday film for two performances only December 12 & 13 at 7:30 pm in the Clark Center Theatre. Tickets are available through the Clark Center Box Office at (805) 489-9444.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE may be one of the best known American Christmas stories, but for those that might need a refresher…George Bailey (Devin Jarvis) has spent his entire life sacrificing his own dreams in giving to the people of Bedford Falls. He has always longed to travel but never had the opportunity in order to prevent rich skinflint Mr. Potter (Graham Smith) from taking over the entire town. On Christmas Eve, George's Uncle Billy (Marshall Lodge) loses $8,000 that belongs to the Bailey Building and Loan. Potter finds the misplaced money and hides it from Billy. When the bank examiner discovers the shortage later that night, George comes to the conclusion that his wife, (Lanelle Chavez) their young children, and others he loves will be better off with him dead. A gentle angel named Clarence (Eddie Hamel) is sent to save George in his time of crisis. In order to illustrate the value of life, Clarence shows George what things would have been like if he had never been born. This new reality George experiences is a nightmarish vision in which his beloved Bedford Falls becomes a dark, perverse den of inequity, leading him to a newfound appreciation for his real life that had seemed so unbearable before he met Clarence.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE is directed by theatre teacher Mike Callaghan. The cast features over 50 theatre students. The technical director is Rick Pierce. The production manager is Billy Houck. This play is surprisingly timely with bank failures, threatened home foreclosures, and an unsure economy, making for a vaguely familiar background.

Molly's Revenge, 'A Christmas Concert' with special guests Moira Smiley and Inga Swearingen

Saturday, December 13 - Castoro Cellars only - Tickets $20 - For Reservations: (805) 238-0725

Molly's Revenge is Stuart Mason, John Weed, David Brewer and Pete Haworth

A CELTIC CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

Molly's Revenge with Moira Smiley and Inga Swearingen present an evening of music, song, and dance associated with the festive season. International Celtic touring band Molly's Revenge (whose lineup includes bagpipes, fiddle, whistles, guitar, bouzouki and mandola) will be joined by acclaimed vocalist/accordionist Moira Smiley and award-winning jazz vocalist Inga Swearingen. Moira Smiley is an internationally known composer and vocalist who has traveled the world as a performer and appeared at the Lincoln Center and other prestigious fine arts and folk venues in the U.S., Canada and Europe. She is a student of Irish sean nós (old-style) singing and has won the Western USA branch of the All Ireland Singing Championships. Inga Swearingen will also perform at this show. Inga has appeared multiple times on the live NPR broadcast of "A Prairire Home Companion" with Garrison Keillor. Among her many credits, she won the Shure Jazz Voice competition at the world-renowned Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland.

Tough economic times always hit the most vulnerable populations the hardest. Santa Barbara’s homeless cat population has skyrocketed in recent months. ASAP’s numbers are at a 15-year high. Fewer people are adopting, and more people are abandoning their pets. Some possible causes of this dual phenomenon are the recent GAP fire, mounting home foreclosures, rising rents, job losses and the general uncertainty that mirrors our current economic malaise. With the County’s spay/neuter ordinance on hold, ASAP doesn’t see any end in sight to the dramatic increase in homeless cats and kittens.

ASAP is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization. ASAP provides daily care, medical rehabilitation and adoption services for stray cats impounded by the County of Santa Barbara. ASAP is located at the Santa Barbara County Animal Shelter, 5473 Overpass Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93111. Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information about ASAP or the adoption fair, go to www.asapcats.org or call Angela Walters-Rockwell at (805) 794-9574.

The final book sale of the year will be held at the Arroyo Grande Library on Dec. 13. The sale begins at 10 a.m. Come early for the best selection. Thousands of books along with CDs and DVDs will be offered, including many specially priced books with holiday gift appeal. The sale is sponsored by the Friends of the Arroyo Grande Library. The library is located at 800 West Branch in Arroyo Grande. Proceeds from the sale support childrens' reading programs, new book acquisitions, magazine subscriptions, and other programs of benefit to the community.

The Arroyo Grande Friends of the Library will be staging a book sale from 10 – 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2008. Please come down and take a look at the wonderful selection of books offered for sale. Arroyo Grande Library is dependent upon the Friends of the Library to assist us in buying new books and furnishings, providing children and family programs, and buying music CDs and movies. Join us in supporting our community and the Friends of the Library!

The Arroyo Grande Library is located at 800 W. Branch St. in Arroyo Grande.

Participants in this year’s Parade are encouraged to decorate and costume their employees, their cars, their floats and whatever else they'll be showcasing in the attire and props, expressing their best creative ideas of a Rockin’ 50’s style Christmas. Awards will be given to parade entrants in the categories of Best of Theme, Best of Music, Best on Foot, and Best on Wheels, Best of Animals and Judges Favorite.

The “Rockin’ Christmas” Parade is open to all businesses and organizations. Completed applications must be returned to the Chamber Office along with the $25 application fee Friday, December 5th. There will be no rain date. To request an application, and to inquire about more information, please call the Los Osos/Baywood Park Chamber of Commerce at 528-4884.

Julie Downey, Executive Manager
Los Osos/Baywood Park Chamber of Commerce
Visitors Center: 781 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos CA
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 6282, Los Osos CA 93412
Tel: (805) 528-4884 Fax: (805) 528-8401
www.LosOsosBaywoodPark.org

For more information about this free family event, call 473-7161.

Special Appearances by World-renowned opera singer Samuel de Palma. The Santa Ynez Valley Performing Arts Company Ballet Performing at 4:00 p.m. The Community Nativity Pageant is an elaborately staged presentation of the nativity story featuring live animals, musical accompaniment and narration by renowned actor Efram Zimbalist, Jr. played out on the stage of the Solvang Theaterfest. Bring the Whole Family!

The group plays Celtic music from the British Isles and the Medieval and Renaissance music of the European courts and countrysides, with an emphasis on music inspired by or traditionally performed during each of the four seasons. Featuring stellar vocal and instrumental harmonies, their entrancing sound is built on the interweaving of up to 3-4 part vocals with the lyrical music of Celtic harp, octave mandolin, guitar, flutes, whistles, percussions, harmonica and melodeon. http://broceliande.org

“Brocelïande” will feature music from their Holiday cd, Sir Christèmas. Sir Christèmas: a delicious tour through some of our favorite Yuletide music. Sometimes angelic and beautiful, sometimes strange and haunting, this collection is sure to deepen your experience of the frosty winter months. Tired of "Deck the Halls" and "Jingle Bells"? You won't find them on this inspired yet curious collection. Glistening with over five hundred years of Western history, straying into French, Spanish, and Old English, bridging both Christian and Pagan themes, the music suggests celebration, for whosoever it is intended.

"Thank you so much for making 'Sir Chirstemas'. I am always looking for Renaissance-type Christmas music (it is hard to find). Your version of "Away in a Manger" is, I believe, the best I've ever heard of any genre of Christmas music. Keep up the good work!" - G. R.

For 15 years, over 500 families in San Luis Obispo County have benefited from our program of musical instruction and choral performance. CCCC singers have had the opportunity to sing with the San Luis Obispo Symphony, Pacific Repertory Opera, Cuesta Master Chorale and the San Luis Obispo Vocal Arts Ensemble. Our singers are provided with a strong foundation in choral education that awards them the confidence they need to achieve their aspirations in both music and life.

For more information check out our website at www.centralcoastchildrenschoir.org

"Real Men Knit" is directed by Wendy Eidson (2007) Color, 32 minutes. If men can cook, garden and change diapers, who can't they knit? "Real Men Knit" might change your views on this ancient craft invented by men and will introduce you to a wide range of guys who knit and are proud of it. It's hard to believe men started the knitting craze! Sharing stories of men across North America, who are proud to say they knit, are exclusive interviews with some of the knitting worlds most famous men, including Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably, and Rick Mondragon.

"Quiltmakers of Gee's Bend", directed by Celia Carey (2005) Color, 60 minutes. For more than 150 years, the women of Gee's Bend have made quilts reflecting their history and daily lives.This award-winning film documents the lives of a group of African-American women from Alabama's Black Belt region, who see their lives radically changed as their artwork is suddenly recognized and embraced by the elite American museum world.

Presented by: Cuesta College Performing Arts

Date:

Saturday, December 13, 7:30 p.m. at SLO United Methodist Church 1515 Fredericks St. in SLO. Phone: 543-7580

Sunday, December 14, 3 p.m. at St. Timothy’s Catholic Church 962 Piney Way in Morro Bay. Phone: 772-2840

Cost: $10 adults/$7 students, seniors and children under 12

Contact: Cuesta College Performing Arts, 546-3195

CUESTA COLLEGE CHOIRS BRING THE SOUNDS OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON TO LOCAL AUDIENCES DECEMBER 13th and 14th. It is time to relax and actually enjoy the holidays – the Cuesta College Chamber Singers, Voce and Concert Choir present their “Holiday Choir Concert” twice in December: Saturday, December 13, 7:30 p.m. at SLO United Methodist Church 1515 Fredericks St. in SLO. Phone: 543-7580. Sunday, December 14, 3 p.m. at St. Timothy’s Catholic Church 962 Piney Way in Morro Bay Phone: 772-2840 The performances will feature everything from a medieval processional to gospel choir and jazz. Plenty of old holiday chestnuts like “Joy to the World,” “Silent Night,” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” as well as multi-cultural, solstice and Hanukah pieces, also will be featured. The Chamber Singers will close their set with an audience sing-along of favorite holiday carols. Tickets for the “Holiday Choir Concert” are $10 for adults, $7 for students, seniors, and children under 12. For more information, contact Cuesta College Performing Arts at 546-3195.

Come join over 20 Vendors for the 2nd Annual Santa Margarita Christmas Boutique at the Community Hall on the corner of Murphy and I street. It's on Sunday Dec. 14, 2008 between 9am - 6pm for all your last minute gift buying. Some vendors include Handmade Soy Candles*Victorian Gifts*Knitted Scarves and Hats*Lavender Gifts*Magnetic Jewelry*Scroll Saw Art*Glass Charms*Unique Birdhouses*Christmas Ornaments and gifts*Potato Bags and so much more. Plus the Santa Margarita Lions Club will be serving Tri Tip Sandwiches for lunch between 11:30am - 2pm. So come join us and see all the great handmade gifts.

Presented by: Cuesta College Performing Arts

Date:

Saturday, December 13, 7:30 p.m. at SLO United Methodist Church 1515 Fredericks St. in SLO. Phone: 543-7580

Sunday, December 14, 3 p.m. at St. Timothy’s Catholic Church 962 Piney Way in Morro Bay. Phone: 772-2840

Cost: $10 adults/$7 students, seniors and children under 12 Contact: Cuesta College Performing Arts, 546-3195

CUESTA COLLEGE CHOIRS BRING THE SOUNDS OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON TO LOCAL AUDIENCES DECEMBER 13th and 14th. It is time to relax and actually enjoy the holidays – the Cuesta College Chamber Singers, Voce and Concert Choir present their “Holiday Choir Concert” twice in December: Saturday, December 13, 7:30 p.m. at SLO United Methodist Church 1515 Fredericks St. in SLO. Phone: 543-7580. Sunday, December 14, 3 p.m. at St. Timothy’s Catholic Church 962 Piney Way in Morro Bay Phone: 772-2840. The performances will feature everything from a medieval processional to gospel choir and jazz. Plenty of old holiday chestnuts like “Joy to the World,” “Silent Night,” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” as well as multi-cultural, solstice and Hanukah pieces, also will be featured. The Chamber Singers will close their set with an audience sing-along of favorite holiday carols. Tickets for the “Holiday Choir Concert” are $10 for adults, $7 for students, seniors, and children under 12. For more information, contact Cuesta College Performing Arts at 546-3195.

For Tickets, call the Clark Center at (805) 489-9444 or visit www.sloyouthsymphony.org.

The Edelweiss Choir is a registered Non-Profit Organization.

Valley of the Flowers United Church of Christ, 3346 Constellation Rd., Vandenberg Village

Tickets sold at the door: Adults $14.00 Students $6.00

For more information call LMA at 736-8702.

For more information call Paula Lowe at 805 710-1160.

The candidate who raises the most money will either kiss the pig or assign that duty to one of the other contestants.

When: Monday, December 15, 2008, 5:30 pm

Where: Downtown Brewing Co., 1119 Garden Street, San Luis Obispo

Public is invited; no host bar, no admission charge.

Candidates: Carol Thom & Stacey Stanek, The Thom Group, Investment & Insurance Group, Rose Marie Picanco, Heritage Oaks Bank, Alex Minicucci, TechXpress.

Donations to any candidate may be mailed to CASA at P.O. Box 1168, San Luis Obispo, CA 93406 or made thru CASA’s secure website at www.slocasa.org.

Please come to enjoy the music and support the efforts of these young musicians in your community.

*Cal Poly Parking $6

Please phone 544-5437 to reserve your space.

For the 18th year The Rotary Club of Los Osos continues it’s annual gift to the community by hosting a free holiday dinner for Los Osos seniors. Turkey and all the trimmings will be the menu for the dinner to be held on Tuesday, December 16th from 5-7pm at the South Bay Community Center, 2180 Palisades Ave in Los Osos. Reservations are requested to insure everyone a complete dinner. Please call 528-2626 to reserve your place or for more information.

Workshop fee: $100 Materials fee: $25*

*Complete information about these workshops is available online at www.CorkStopStudios.com under News and Events. You may also email info@CorkStopStudios.com

To reserve your place, payment in full is required. Mail your check to CorkStop Studios, 1250 Judith Lane, Arroyo Grand,. CA 93420.

Please include workshop name, email contact and mailing address.

For further information please call 596-4050 *2700.

Everyone is welcome to this annual singalong at St Benedicts Episcopal Church in Los Osos. A fun evening for all ages, the program includes favorite carols accompanied by Sarah and Dan Field on guitar and John Cribb on piano. The ageless story of Christmas is retold in the words of ‘Journey to Bethlehem’, a two person narrative by Carole I. Adams. This year the narrators are Judy Schloss and Rob Ross. During ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ everyone lights a candle so that the carols come to a magical end with ‘Silent Night’ sung by candlelight. The carols are followed by cookies, hot cider and conversation. There is no charge for the evening but a collection will be taken for the Prado Road Day Center. St Benedicts Episcopal Church is located at the corner of Los Osos Valley Rd and Clark Valley Rd.

For more information call 528-0654, or visit www.stbenslososos.org.

The play will be presented at 7 p.m., Friday, December 19, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. , Saturday, December 20, and at 2 p.m., Wednesday, December 24, on the stage of the historic 81-year-old Hiawatha Lodge, 3065 Temple Street in Halcyon. Admission is free, with a good will offering. The play is suitable for all ages.

Olivia is played by 10-year-old Zoe Rollison. Father Christmas, also Mr. Nicholas Clement, is performed by William C. White, author and director of the play. Irm Balogh is orphanage matron, Miss Constance, while Violet Drummond is the charity-minded businesswoman who collects coins for the poor, and the barmaid. Phillip Kravtsov is Father Christmas’ helper, Danny the Drayman. David Brown is the constable.

Shamus Drummond is a newsboy, and also handles lighting, while Kaety Rollison is assistant director and plays Mr. Clement’s mother. Orphans are played by 2-year-olds Isabella Rollison, Ella Colendich-Robertson and Alexa Shepherd. Also working at the orphanage are Linda Rollison and Zina Colendich, while Karen White is the charwoman. All the actors are residents of Halcyon.

Members of the Temple of the People choir will sing in the play.

The chorus will be accompanied by Sergey and Rita Moiseyev playing guitar.

Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Donations are greatly appreciated to support the Y-Arts program and beverages and desserts will be sold for a nominal fee. Persons interested in attending should pick up a free ticket at the YMCA, as seats may be limited. For more information or to learn how you can share your talent, please contact Nathan Asher nasher@sloymca.org or Lana Dow ldow@sloymca.org or call the Member Services Counter at 543-8235.

The YMCA offers a variety of introductory art classes. Currently classes in Introductory Pencil Drawing, Keyboard Instruction and Guitar Lessons are underway. Drawing is offered through December 18, on Thursday evenings from 6:15 - 7:45 pm; guitar lessons are offered Wednesday evenings and Keyboard classes are offered on Mondays an appointment basis. All classes are held at the YMCA’s San Luis Obispo facility. The classes are free for YMCA members and for a nominal fee for non-members. For more information contact Lana Dow or the Y’s Member Services Counter.

For more information about other YMCA programs and its efforts to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities in San Luis Obispo County, visit www.sloymca.org or call the Y’s administrative office at 543-8235.

Send donations to:
Habitat for Humantiy SLO
P.O. Box 613
SLO, CA 93406
or on-line at: www.hfhsloco.org

One of Massenet’s most performed operas, Thaïs has spawned several controversial productions since its debut in 1894. John Cox’s daring new staging, which originated at Lyric Opera of Chicago, stars the radiant American soprano Renée Fleming as the title character, an Egyptian courtesan in search of spiritual sustenance. Music Academy Distinguished Alumnus Thomas Hampson portrays Athanaël, a Cenobite monk who attempts to convert Thaïs to Christianity, only to discover that his obsession with her is rooted in lust. Jesús López-Cobos conducts.

The 2008-09 “Live in HD” series will continue on Saturday, January 10, with a live simulcast of Puccini’s La Rondine, featuring the charismatic real-life duo of Angela Gheorghiu and Roberto Alagna. Most Met performances are simulcast on Saturdays at 10 am local time, with encore screenings on Sundays at 2 pm.

Launched in December 2006, the Met’s groundbreaking “Live in HD” series features live transmissions of Met Opera performances to select venues in 17 countries throughout the world. The transmissions are in high definition, and performances are captured using robotic cameras and other advanced technologies. Simulcasts also include behind-the-scenes features, live interviews with cast and crew, and insightful short documentaries.

For more information, call 969-8787.

The project was made possible with the help of eleven local sponsors. This year’s sponsors include Pismo Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau, Cal Poly, South County Realty, Cuesta College, Rossi Enterprises, Adobe Realty, Yarns … at the Adobe, Quaglino Roofing, Port San Luis Harbor District, Shell Beach Law Group, and AeroMech Engineering, Inc. These nostalgic and informative calendars will not last for long, so, stop by the County Historical Museum Gift Shop and get one soon. All proceeds benefit the SLO County Historical Museum and the Dallidet Adobe and Gardens. Hurry and get yours before the calendars, much like the photos depicted, become a thing of the past.

The San Luis Obispo County Historical Museum is located at 696 Monterey Street in the original Carnegie Library building, across the street from the Mission. The Museum and Gift Shop is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. For more information, please call 543-0638.

Among the offerings are MURDER IN LOS LOBOS by Sue McGinty. Guy Rathbun of KCBX will interview Sue on December 17th. Loren Nicholson brings RAILS ACROSS THE RANCHOS, the story of the rebuilding of the Southern Pacific Railroad between 1885 and 1904, ROMUALDO PACHECOS CALIFORNIA and CARRILLO’S DEFIANT DAUGHTERS. Susan Tuttle will sign TANGLED WEBS. Evelyn Cole will offer her three novels, FOR THE SAKE OF ALL OTHERS, A TOUGH JOURNEY, and GAMBLING FOR GOOD MAIL along with short stories, articles and poems. Claire Gordon will sign MY UNFORGETTABLE JAZZ FRIENDS, a fascinating memoir for jazz lovers. And Bob Mott brings his nostalgic book, RADIO SOUND EFFECTS. Carroll McKibbin will be there with his humorous memoir, APRON STRINGS. Virginia Lasher will sign her children’s book, SECRET OF CROOKED CREEK which is available, too, in all our public libraries. Karen Juran, editor of TALES FROM THE CORNER will sign, along with some of its other authors. Some of “Sisters in Crime” will come, too, along with their wild books. Susan Tuttle said, “Many other Nightwriters, including short story prizewinner Anne Schroeder, plan to attend and Dennis Young will photograph the festive scene.”

This Nightwriters give-away begins at noon on Saturday, December 20.

Saturday, December 20 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Sunday, December 21 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm matinee performance
Sunday, December 21 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm

El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park
123 East Canon Perdido Street, Santa Barbara, CA
$5 for Adults - Children 16 & Under are FREE

For more information (805) 965-0093

We are in need of a fun family to open their hearts and home to students from Indonesia. Dates: December 21- January 1. Share your culture and traditions of the Christmas Season. Students can travel with you if you plan on leaving town for Christmas! They would love to experience your whole family!! Students are girls or boys ranging in age of 12-18 years old. Language school with fun activity program is open December 22-31 and carpooling is available.

Call Vanessa Rozo Program Coordinator 805-709-0624.

Sunday, December 21, 20008
9:00 a.m. Morning Meditation and Candle Lighting
11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Community Holydays Celebration

All are welcome to join us for an interfaith story for the season, along with a short teaching for children of all ages. Our day will also include music, crafts, and good company including a vegetarian potluck at noon. Bring your favorite vegetarian dish to share, an instrument to play and join in the joy of community. Offered on a free-will basis. RSVP to Carrie at 466-3462. Awakening Interfaith Spiritual Community, 1130 Napa Ave., Morro Bay.

For additional information call 772-0306.

For additional information visit our website at http://www.pacslo.org

For more information log onto: www.templenershalom.org/JCC.html .

Chanukah, the festival of light, begins December 21 and lasts for eight days.

For information, call: 541-0367.

Join us for poetry honoring our beautiful Central Coast!

The Plein Air Poets of San Luis Obispo County will read from their new collection "POEMS FOR ENDANGERED PLACES" from 7-9pm at the Linnaea's in San Luis Obispo on Sunday, December 21st. In 2007, Sylvia Alcon, Marguerite Costigan, Jane Elsdon, Paula Lowe,Terry Sanville, Cal Wilvert and Rosemary Wilvert chose eleven vulnerable sites in SLO County to honor with poetry written on site. Marguerite Costigan, water colorist extraordinaire, painted the book's lovely cover and the eleven tonal paintings inside. Come join the Plein Air Poets for this special poetry event. Poets will sign books and posters.

For more information call Paula Lowe at (805) 710-1160.

DUE TO AKC RULES, ONLY DOGS ENTERED IN THE SHOW ARE ALLOWED ON THE GROUNDS.

For detailed judging schedules go to www.slokc.org and link on the Bradshaw link.

Sky World is hosted by Santa Maria poets Dave Ochs and Deborah Tobola.

For more information about other YMCA programs and its efforts to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities in San Luis Obispo County, visit www.sloymca.org or call the Y’s administrative office at 543-8235.

The Santa Barbara Public Library System will offer free training on a professional grant seekers' database that is available for use at the Central Library, 40 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara. Grant seekers will use the Foundation Center’s Online Directory to learn: how to identify grant makers in their area of interest; how much and what kind of funding is available; which grant makers are accepting applications, and how to apply. To reserve a place in the workshop contact Brent Field, Reference Librarian, at 564-5623 or bfield@santabarbaraca.gov. The Santa Barbara Public Library is one of 24 Foundation Center Cooperating Collections in California, and has the professional edition of the Foundation Directory Online, the nation's leading online resource for funding research, as well as a core collection of foundation and grant-related books.

The Mike Raynor group and his Swingin Cats will be playing the song styles of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin during the Rat Pack party, at the Inn at Morro Bay on New Years Eve. Songs like: Mack the Knife, Volare, Lady is a Tramp, Witchcraft, Beyond the Sea, New York New York, all the Rat Pack favorites. And, that's not all, we're prepared to Rock the house with some R&B, Disco, Soul and Rock and Roll Classics. Tunes from artist's such as: Lynard Skynard, Gloria Gaynor, Van Morrison, Chuck Berry, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin and more...

The group is Sunny Wright on Vocals, Gary Drysdale on Guitar, Travis Harms on Bass, and Mike Raynor on Drums. Come out and party with us, and dance the night away. For more information regarding times and dinner reservations, contact the Inn at Morro Bay - 805.772.5651

The schedule is:
8:30 Socializing, light refreshments
9:00 Dances of Universal Peace
11:00 Candlelighting ceremony, meditation
12:00 Concluding Dances

Families are welcome; however, children need to be old enough to participate in the Dances without need of parental attention. Additional information is available at www.sbdances.org, by emailing sbdances@gmail.com, or by phoning Penelope Salinger at 805 898-1603.