The event’s organzier, Jenny Brantlee of Yogawave.us, says: “Most people come to simply try a few rounds. And then, once their bodies get into the rhythm of the sequence, they stay and oftentimes complete the entire 108. The part we’re all amazed by is how quickly it goes by, and how it truly becomes easier the more you do. What one thinks will be a chore winds up being a gift to the body, mind, and soul. But do be prepared to sweat and to have a little muscle soreness the next day.”

Yoga mats are provided, and the Morro Bay Veteran’s Hall is located at 208 Surf Street, off Main Street in Morro Bay. For more information, please contact Jenny at (805) 234-7279 or visit www.yogawave.us (which has a printable flier of the sun salutation sequence) or jennyb.yogawave@gmail.com.

This is your opportunity to be a part of the changes you wish to see in the community. The City Council encourages and values active citizen participation in the government of the City. Whether you’re a new resident in town or have been enjoying the SLO life for some time, serving on one of the following committees or commissions can provide you with a rewarding experience and the opportunity to meet new people. Don’t delay, apply today and make your voice heard!

* Architectural Review Commission * Bicycle Advisory Committee * Board of Appeals * Cultural Heritage Committee * Housing Authority * Human Relations Commission * Jack House Committee * Joint Use of Recreational Facilities * Mass Transportation Committee * Parks and Recreation Commission * Personnel Board * Promotional Coordinating Committee * Tree Committee

Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m., Friday, January 30, 2009. Interviews have tentatively been scheduled during the period of February 2 through 20, 2009. Please reserve these dates, as make-up interviews are not guaranteed. For additional information regarding each committee and applications, please visit the City’s Website at www.slocity.org or contact the City Clerk’s office by calling 781-7100. Applicants must be registered voters in the City of San Luis Obispo.

Inga Swearingen began her career as a singer/songwriter, accompanying herself in alternate tunings on the guitar. Transitioning to jazz was natural for her; she scat sings with agility and grace, infusing the genre with fresh life. In February 2003, Inga began her graduate studies in Switzerland with Susanne Abbuehl. Later that year, she was the first to win the Shure Jazz Voice competition at the world-renowned Montreux Jazz Festival receiving both the vote of the judges and the audience ("First Place" and "Prize of the Public"). She returned to perform at the festival in 2004 with the Matt Baker Trio. Inga has performed multiple times on the live NPR broadcast "A Prairie Home Companion" with Garrison Keillor, giving her the opportunity to perform all over the country. She has self-produced two albums, “Reverie” with The Bill Peterson Trio (2005), and "Learning How To Fly" with Trio 14 and Linda Vanasupa (2003). In addition to these collaborative efforts, Inga has performed with internationally known pianist, composer and improviser Art Lande. She has performed multiple times with the Leon Anderson Quartet culminating in a performance at Carnegie Hall in May of 2005. The following March she wrote and composed with Linda Vanasupa “Your Voice Within”, a musical story about finding your own voice, for the Central Coast Children’s Choir. She has also performed with the San Luis Obispo Symphony conducted by Michael Nowak.

Los Osos/Morro Bay Chapter * P.O. Box 6442, Los Osos, CA 93412

Small Wilderness Area Preservation (S.W.A.P.) invites volunteers to help with erosion and weed control in the Elfin Forest. The next work day will be Saturday, Jan 3rd, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Volunteers meet at the north end of 15th Street off of Santa Ysabel in Los Osos. Dress for sun and wind and bring work gloves if you can. Some work gloves, tools and drinking water are provided. Please park carefully, avoiding driveways and mailboxes. S.W.A.P. work parties are held at 9 a.m. til noon on the 1st Saturday of each Month. Rain cancels.

For details, call SWAP, 528-0392.

Mandolinist Kenny Blackwell studied with Jethro Burns before moving to California where he joined fiddler Richard Green's band in '93. His mandolin and guitar work have been heard in TV and movie scores. Since '94, he has been a constant member of the famed Laurel Canyon Ramblers. Guitarist Dorian Michael has played in about every style and in every type of work situation a blue collar musician could hope for. After years of honky-tonk electric guitar followed by concentrating on solo fingerstyle guitar this project is a whole new challenge.

After Kenny and Dorian met by chance in a music store in San Luis Obispo, then at a backyard jam session, and again at a music convention in Los Angeles, they decided it was time to play some music together. Kenny, one of California's foremost mandolinists, wanted a chance to play outside of the bluegrass genre in which he is constantly in demand. Guitarist Dorian Michael was looking for a skillful musician who understood a wide variety of roots music. Six months later their first CD was released and they were touring as a duo. The duo's diverse backgrounds are the wellspring for a performance of exciting and heartfelt music. Their enthusiasm for making music and their respect for their audience is plainly evident whenever they perform. Says Dorian, "Some music makes you feel deeply, some music makes you think and some tunes are played just for the sheer fun of it. We like to try to get to all those places in the space of a concert."

The Red Barn is located at the South Bay Community Center, 2180 Palisades Avenue, next to the skate park in Los Osos.

The show begins at 7:00 PM, with pot luck supper.

Catherine Lee Neifing will demonstrate how she uses a computer to plan and create her artwork and make photographs look like paintings. Catherine has been living and making art on the Central Coast for over twenty years. She works in a variety of art media including painting, photography, mixed media, and digital imaging using a Mac computer with Adobe Photoshop.

Catherine has had a formal art education from Cal State University San Jose, where she received a Master's degree in Pictorial Imaging. She also teaches painting and digital fine art at her home studio and also at the college level at Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria. Her next class at AHC is Art 107, Computer Fine Art. Registration begins January 20 at AHC.

Catherine's artwork tends to focus on colorful, upbeat subject matter. Much of her work is inspired by tropical, travel, and ocean themes, and usually tells a story to the viewer. Her work can be viewed on her website at www.catherinelee.com.

Prior to the main presentation, Alan Raul will moderate his Q & A session from 12:45 PM to 2:00 PM
Additionally, a second SIG for beginners will run concurrently in another room, offering advice and answering questions on Windows operating systems. This is a small group environment specially suited for the novice user.

SLO Bytes, a PC Users Group dedicated to educate its members in the use of personal computers, digital devices and software, meets on the first Sunday of each month at the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Hall at 520 Dana Street, San Luis Obispo. All meetings are open to the public at no cost. Special Interest groups meet from 12:45 to 2:00 PM and guest speaker presentations begin at 2:30 PM. Contact Kaye Raul at kmraul@sbcglobal.net or visit

From Nov. 7th, 2008-Jan. 15th, 2009, Frame Works will proudly host the 3rd annual Art Eco Exhibition. The show will feature twelve local artists’ works made from recycled, reused, or reclaimed materials. The Opening Reception for Art Eco will be on Friday, Nov. 7th, 2008 from 6pm-9pm in conjunction with Art After Dark. Twenty percent of all proceeds will benefit The Land Conservancy of SLO. Frame Works is located at 339 Marsh Street, SLO.

MONDAYS - 7:00 P.M. – 8:30 P.M.
UNITY CHAPEL OF LIGHT FELLOWSHIP HALL
1165 STUBBLEFIELD ROAD
SANTA MARIA, CA 93455
More Information: www.gam-anon.org OR (805) 268-1116

Sample for free one of many fitness classes offered at the YMCA designed for a variety of fitness levels and abilities. Classes include Group Cycling, Body Conditioning, Yoga, Karate, Pilates, and much more! Special fitness classes targeted to Active Older Adults and will also be offered including Silver Sneakers®, Tai Chi, cardio, range of motion and light weight-lifting classes. For a schedule of class demonstrations contact the Y’s Member Services Counter, 543-8235.

Free Fitness Testing will be offered 11:00 am – 1:00 pm and 4:00 – 6:00 pm on both days. Reservations are requested for this free test, although walk-ins are welcome on a first-come, first-serve basis. Chair Massages will also be offered at a special rate for this event between Noon – 4:00 pm on both days. Special giveaways and raffles will be held each day of the Open House, including free memberships. Guest speakers will be on hand to discuss various topics, such as “Senior Resources” and “Dealing with Chronic Pain”. Please contact the YMCA Member Services Counter for a complete listing of all topics to be offered.

The Y is also hosting a blood drive with United Blood Services on Tuesday from 2:00 – 6:00 pm and Wednesday from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. Blood donations are especially needed after the holidays. Come to the open house and give blood – you can save lives and get fit, what a great way to begin the New Year!

Pre-show lecture at 6 p.m.

Sample for free one of many fitness classes offered at the YMCA designed for a variety of fitness levels and abilities. Classes include Group Cycling, Body Conditioning, Yoga, Karate, Pilates, and much more! Special fitness classes targeted to Active Older Adults and will also be offered including Silver Sneakers®, Tai Chi, cardio, range of motion and light weight-lifting classes. For a schedule of class demonstrations contact the Y’s Member Services Counter, 543-8235.

Free Fitness Testing will be offered 11:00 am – 1:00 pm and 4:00 – 6:00 pm on both days. Reservations are requested for this free test, although walk-ins are welcome on a first-come, first-serve basis. Chair Massages will also be offered at a special rate for this event between Noon – 4:00 pm on both days. Special giveaways and raffles will be held each day of the Open House, including free memberships. Guest speakers will be on hand to discuss various topics, such as “Senior Resources” and “Dealing with Chronic Pain”. Please contact the YMCA Member Services Counter for a complete listing of all topics to be offered.

The Y is also hosting a blood drive with United Blood Services on Tuesday from 2:00 – 6:00 pm and Wednesday from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. Blood donations are especially needed after the holidays. Come to the open house and give blood – you can save lives and get fit, what a great way to begin the New Year!

The first half of Spiller's program will features works by Mozart, opening with the "Sonata in F Major," K. 280, followed by the "Fantasy in D minor," K. 397, and concluding with the "Sonata in D Major," K. 311. The second half will open with Ravel's "Menuet Antique," followed by Bartok's "15 Hungarian Peasant Songs," and end with Liszt's "Tarantella" from his "Venezia e Napoli."

Tickets to the recital are $6 for students and senior citizens and $10 for the public. They are on sale at the Performing Arts Ticket Office 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.

Who are these volunteers? People just like you – businessmen and women, members of volunteer or community organizations, college students, law students, and homemakers. You name it. Volunteer Tax Assistors receive free instruction and training and all training and certification materials necessary to prepare basic income tax returns. Although tax time may seem a long way away, now is the time to sign up. Training and certification is completed in January and can be done online at any time or through in-person trainings held January 10, 17, and 24, 2009 in San Luis Obispo.

Volunteers are also needed to help in other ways. We are also looking for greeters, translators, child care helpers and outreach workers. If you have a skill and would like to help, we can find a way to involve you in the program. We have sites in San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles and Grover Beach. If you or your organization wants to get involved and would like more information about the VITA Program, please contact Carol Fleury or Danijela Dornan at the EOC: 805-544-4355, or visit us on the web at www.eocslo.org.

The Western Music Association's 2008 Male Performer of the Year and Entertainer of the Year with special guest, cowboy poet Dick Gibford

Saturday, January 10th at 8:00pm

The Steynberg Gallery 531 Monterey Street in SLO

$15 tickets now on sale at the Steynberg

More info: 805-546-2857 www.cambriahoot.com and www.davestamey.com

Led by members of the sangha, including Zen priest Amber Komei Larson, the tutorial will include guidance in three basic meditation techniques – “insight” meditation, Zen meditation and walking meditation. “In this time of increasing anxiety,” Larson says, “well-focused mindfulness can help us achieve a genuine sense of personal well-being. Meditation is not exclusive to Buddhism, but is an important element of most religious traditions, its mode of practice varying widely. “We meditate during each of our regular Sangha meetings,” Larson explained, “but few of our members sit cross-legged, Buddha-style. In fact, most prefer meditating while seated in a chair, just as I do. And each may employ a different meditative technique. So, we welcome practitioners of all beliefs.” Larson said the seminar is also meant to serve as introduction to the Sangha’s return to a general review of basic Buddhist thought. Sunday following the meditation seminar, January 18th, the sangha will begin reviewing the opening chapters of a well-respected Buddhist text, titled The Tree of Enlightenment. Anyone interested in learning more about basic Buddhist philosophy is welcome to attend.

The Tree of Enlightenment text books are donated and will be distributed without charge to members and newcomers alike. The seminar will begin promptly at 9 a.m. and conclude at 11 a.m. on Sunday January 11, and will include a tea, coffee and refreshments break. The library is located at 6850 Morro Road in Atascadero. Questions may be directed to Craig Dingman at 466-4547

Talley VineCross is an event that offers the best of the country, delicious wines, and a fun day with family and friends in the courtyard BBQ/picnic area. Racers will compete on a challenging but fun dirt course that takes them on an adventure through the Talley farmland and vineyards. This 1.8- mile circuit consists of dirt roads looping through the vineyard valley floor and several terrace areas. Technical hill climbs and descents and natural barrier sections consisting of grassy culvert crossings keep the racers on their toes.

Family, friends, neighbors and fans are all welcome. A truly spectator-friendly course, enjoy BBQ and wine by the glass in the beautiful courtyard. Scan the 1.8 mile circuit on high from the comfort of the tasting terrace or meander among the vines at your favorite turn on the loop.

For this event, Talley Vineyards is offering fantastic deals on full glasses of their Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Rock Solid Red, ranging from $3 to $4.50 per glass!

A full and delicious BBQ meal, (vegetarian option as well), will be available for $7 thanks to Fred Sweeney, BBQ-extraordinaire. BBQ and wine will start at 11am and go until 3:30pm

Get More Info: Registration links, directions, and complete details on the day’s activities including kids' and fun races are at www.cencalcycling.com under the Talley VineCross menu tab.

Anyone who has not experienced cyclocross will be impressed by the unique excitement of this colorful sport!

Location:
Talley Vineyards & Bishop's Peak Wines
3031 Lopez Dr.
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
(805) 489-0446

One part of GALA's mission (www.ccgala.org/page93.html) is support for the broader Central Coast Community. Please open your heart to these desperate residents and empty your closet by dropping off basic winter items at the GALA Center no later than Monday, January 19. Drop off hours are Monday through Friday between 9 AM and 1 PM, as well as 2 PM to 6 PM. The GALA Center is located at 11573 Los Osos Valley Road, Suite B in San Luis Obispo. Your donation may just save a life! Sunny Acres (www.sunnyacresca.com/) is a non-profit corporation that provides a clean and sober environment for those with drug and alcohol addictions. Without this program, many more people would be homeless and living on the streets of San Luis Obispo County. Whatever your position is on Sunny Acres, please remember that your donation directly helps human beings in need of basic shelter and protection from the elements.

ABOUT GALA - The Gay And Lesbian Alliance of the Central Coast (GALA) is a non-profit organization with the following mission: Through education, support, recreation, advocacy, and partnerships, we will promote the well-being of our GLBT community. GALA brings people together. Our vision: To have a healthy gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender community that is respected, embraced by, and of value to the broader Central Coast Community. For more information, visit http://www.ccgala.org/

Call Deborah Hindergardt at 712-9015 for more information.

For more information, go to www.slonightwriters.org or contact Cathe Olson at 710-2547.

The information session will be held at the Nonprofit Support Center, 120 E. Jones Street, Santa Maria.

To register or for more information, call 805-564-5619.

Participating Boutique Hotel Collection properties include the Sea Venture Resort and The Cliffs Resort in Pismo Beach, Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and the Apple Farm in San Luis Obispo and the Inn at Morro Bay in Morro Bay.

Dishing up live acoustic guitar music including traditional folk, bluesy-sounds, bluegrass, and even gospel, the festival will feature well-known musicians from throughout the region performing in intimate settings. A variety of events will take the stage throughout the five days, including concerts, folk storytelling, a Western country swing and line dancing event, and even a sing-along.

Each of the Boutique Hotel Collection properties will also showcase live folk music at their respective restaurants during the dinner hour, along with a prix-fixe menu representing each chef’s interpretation of “California Heritage Cuisine.” Sample menu items include pan seared California halibut with tomato confit and cod brandade fritters; Santa Barbara spot prawns with McCall Farms avocado mousse and sherry reduction; and a trio of citrus Crème Brûlé featuring kumquats, Meyer lemon, oro blanco.

“California is rich in folk music heritage - the type of music that’s reminiscent of simpler times,” said Mike Casola, Chief Operating Officer for Boutique Hotel Collection. “With its low-key ‘SLO’ vibe, San Luis Obispo County is the perfect backdrop for celebrating all things folk.”

For more information about the festival, please contact Casey Moss at The Cliffs Resort; 805-773-5000, or email casey@cliffsresort.com. Information will also be available at www.CCFolk.com.

Boutique Hotel Collection features distinctive hotels, inns and resorts in scenic destinations throughout California, with each property reflecting rare regional treasures. Nestled in unique locales, ranging from seaside state parks and marine sanctuaries to the Central Coast wine country and historic towns, guests of Boutique Hotel Collection properties can experience authentic area attractions such as wine tasting, visiting state wildlife reserves, kayaking amidst the beauty of the bay and soaking up small town charm. Media interested in more information on Boutique Hotel Collection or property images may contact Holly Padove at (805) 773-1000 or holly@thepressroom.com.

Seminar Summary:

Developing Strategic communication skills for Workplace Effectiveness. If you've ever been unsure in business settings about the proper way to handle things, you'll be glad you joined us for this informative, interactive event!

At this event you will learn:
-Managing your personal brand
-Create a culture of courtesy and professionalism
-Build better business relationships with our prospects and customer
-Learn guidelines for appropriate business dress

Speaker:

Anita Shower has been doing representations for adults and well as children, writes an etiquette column, consults, and answers etiquette questions through her web site. She also appears on Dave Congalton’s radio broadcast and in television segments with Rick Martel. Anita also writes a column in City News and just finished a book on Grover Beach history.

Miss Etiquette's question and answer style newspaper etiquette advice column is printed exclusively each week in The Five Cities' Times-Press Recorder, published in Arroyo Grande, California.

Where: Pelican Point Restaurant
Investment including dinner:
Members $30; Non-Members $40

Brings together people from the many faith communities throughout San Luis Obispo County to work together for peace and social justice. Regular meetings focus on a different topic while strategy groups undertake projects and campaigns for economic justice, civil rights, environmental justice and peace & non-violence. This meeting on January 15th at Congregation Beth David (Los Osos Valley Rd near Foothill Blvd) will focus on how we can build a better society - how we can make the 'we can' into 'we will'. There will be time for conversationa dn tiem for planning. Everyone is welcome, of any faith background or none.

This is a hands-on opportunity workshop to capture your special moments in writing.

The themes will be:
Session 1 (1/15): Recalling your past.
Session 2 (1/22): Polishing your first efforts.
Session 3 (1/29): Self-publishing your story/stories.

All people who register will need to attend all three sessions. The workshop will be held at the Atascadero Library in the Martin Polin Community Room. The workshop is designed for beginners and advanced beginners. The workshop is led by Eileen O'Grady, writing teacher and National Writing Project facilitator. Eileen O'Grady has a Master's Degree in education with an emphasis in the teaching of writing. She worked for 16 years at a suburban Kansas City high school where she taught a college credit freshman composition course. Ms. O'Grady also taught workshops for teachers at the University of Missouri, Kansas City, Missouri. Registration is limited to 12 adults.

The Atascadero Library is located at 6850 Morro Road in Atascadero.

To register for the workshop, contact the Atascadero Reference Desk at 461-6162 and ask for Brian Coburn.

Tickets: $15 general/$10 children under 13.

Fri/Sat 7pm, Sat/Sun 2 pm.

Please call 786-2440 or ONLINE at www.slolittletheatre.org. Thank you and Happy New Year!

Location:
22322 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita 438-3376.
Intimate setting with great deli styled food.
Friendly staff, fine music, fun evening, come enjoy.

Ruslan Biryukov was born in Baku, Azerbaijan, graduated from the Baku Music Academy, Tchaikovsky Moscow Conservatory and USC Thornton School of Music. He has collaborated with Mstislav Rostropovich and Seiji Ozawa in venues worldwide. His performances bring impressions of his native country as well as a reverence for the traditions of musical expression, art and beauty his selections represent.

Mary Au, a well-known and gifted chamber music collaborator and piano accompianist, is a graduate of the Royal Academy of Music and the University of Southern California. Ms Au collaborated in recitals and master classes with renowned artists such as Mstislav Rostropovich and has been an executive of the GRAMMY Awards. She has performed at the IFEA Award winning Nanning International Arts Festival in China.

Their program includes Chopin’s Polonaise Brillante, Luigi Boccherini’s Sonata No. 6 in A Major, Claude Debussy’s Sonate pour violocelle et piano, Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Vocalise, and Karl Davidov’s Allegro de Concert. Alfred Shnittke’s Suite im alten stil , an example of “polystilism”, a 20th century, where music of different styles both past and present are juxtaposed. The amazing Pacific Trio will return to the series on Saturday, January 31st. Edith Orloff, pianist, and John Walz, cellist, have played together since high school, and Roger Wilkie, violinist, joined the trio in the last few years. On Friday, February 27th the Schoolhouse Music Evenings welcomes for the first time Mezzo Soprano Iris Mllkin with pianist Linda Zoolalian and guitarist Edward Trybeck.

January 16th’s concert will begin at 8pm at St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley-Episcopal Church 2901 Nojoqui in Los Olivos. There is also a free informal afternoon performance from 3:30 to 4:00pm the day of the concerts at the church for anyone in the community. For more concert series information and Preferred Seating tickets please contact Rose Knoles at (805) 688-4933 or Laura Birrell at (805) 688-7817. Tickets are available at St. Mark’s Church at (805) 688-4454, The Book Loft 1680 Mission Drive in Solvang (805) 688-6010. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Sign up at www.slobikelane.org/bikeed

Join Eval Albright, an animal track expert, to find out who is "tracking up" the Elfin Forest. Evan will demonstrate how to tell which are the front feet or back feet of a raccoon, and what the difference if between coyote tracks and dog tracks. Visitors will learn to look for other signs that a wild resident of the Elfin Forest has passed that way, such as hairs on a fence or "scoot" marks where the animal squeezed through a fence hole. This walk will open up a complex world of the Elfin Forest's inhabitants, one that we would never suspect while walking along the boardwalk. Walks in the Elfin Forest meet at 9:30 a.m. at the north end of 15th St. off of Santa Ysabel in Los Osos (unless otherwise noted). Proceed up the path to the boardwalk, where the walk will begin. Wear comfortable shoes, long sleeves and pants to avoid poison oak. Please park carefully, avoiding driveways and mailboxes. Please leave pets at home. The easy paced walks last 1-1/2 to 2 hours.

For more info. call 528-0392.

Artist’s Reception and Opening on Saturday, January 17th, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at the Art From Scrap Gallery, 302 East Cota Street. Show opens January 17th and runs through March 7th, 2009. Gallery Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10:00 -2:00, Thursday 10:00-6:00, and Saturdays 10:00- 3:00. Panel discussion precedes the opening on Saturday, January 17th, from 4:00 – 5:00 pm. Community movie night screening of ‘The 11th Hour’ on Tuesday, February 10th, at 6:30 pm.

About Art From Scrap: Art From Scrap is Santa Barbara’s Environmental Education and Art Center. The Art From Scrap Gallery is located upstairs at the Art From Scrap Reuse Store at 302 East Cota Street in downtown Santa Barbara. Art From Scrap offers assemblage artists a unique space dedicated to their art form. Rotating shows hang throughout the year bringing together art lovers, collectors and local artists.

Art From Scrap
302 East Cota Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101

www.artfromscrap.org

For further information on the Gospel Fest concert, please call Rev. Curt Miner at 544-1373.

For further information on the UCCSLO, please visit www.sloucc.org.

Los Olivos Grange Film at 7:00 -- doors open at 6:45 -- donation $5.

For tickets, call 805-489-9444 or visit www.clarkcenter.org.

Tickets range from $38-$48.

The City of Paso Robles, Library & Recreation Services will host a celebration of the powerful vision and message of Martin Luther King Jr. with a lively march and Community Gallery! Rain or shine, participants are invited to gather at Robbins Field in Paso Robles to listen to some inspirational words before marching with the Paso Robles Bearcat High School Band to the Library for a reception and viewing of the Community Gallery. The Gallery will include works by community members, expressing what Martin Luther King Jr. embodied and his message of embracing diversity. Works may include music, theater, paintings, sculpture, essays, poetry, photography, video, and more. The reception will feature appetizers, beverages and a chance to meet the artists. Artistic works will remain in the Library for the remainder of January, with the exception of the live performances. Applications to show in the Gallery are available at Centennial Park, Paso Robles City Library, and at www.prcity.com/recreation. Gallery artwork must be submitted to the Library on January 14 and 15.

For further information, please call 237-4741.

For more details, call Rosemary at (805) 735-3974 or Dave at (805) 736-4902.

THIS EVENT IS LED BY SANTA MARIA B.R.A.G.'S 24TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER. THE FEATURED GUEST SPEAKER WILL BE THE 19TH US PRESIDENT, RUTHERFORD B. HAYES' GREAT-GRAND NEPHEW, DR. ROBERT M. WOOD. THE THEME WILL BE, " DR. KING JR.'S DREAMS BEING FULFILLED".

JUST AS DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR., HAD CONCERNS FOR LOW INCOME INDIVIDUALS, SO DOES DR. WOOD.

GREETINGS WILL BE BROUGHT TO US FROM THE STATE BY SENATOR ABEL MALDONADO, 5TH DISTRICT SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SUPERVISOR, JOE CENTENO, SANTA MARIA CITY MAYOR, LARRY LAVAGNINO; AND PLEDGE OF ALLIANCE, BY DIVISION COMMANDER CHIEF, KENDALL GREENE.

ENTERTAINMENT WILL BE PROVIDED TO US BY MUSICAL-THERAPIST PIANIST, KAREN REED, THE RIGHETTI HIGH SCHOOL MARIACHI FOLKLORICO BALLET DANCERS, THE SANTA MARIA HIGH SCHOOL 2007, CHRISTMAS PARADE OF LIGHTS' GRAND PRIZE WINNERS, STEPPERS DANCERS, JOYFUL SOUND OF UNITY CHOIR, MAYBE PACIFIC CHRISTIAN CHOIR, SOLOIST, JOHN H, McCOY JR.; ETC.

YOU WILL HAVE THE PRIVILEGE TO PURCHASE ANY KIND OF MEAL THAT YOU DESIRE FROM THE RADISSON RESTAURANT.

THERE WILL BE CORDLESS COMPUTER KEYBOARD, MOUSE, BOOKS, COMPUTER PRINTER, TV?, COUPONS, SOME AUTOMOBILE ITEMS ETC.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 805-937-4887, 802-634-1021, 330-646-3088, OR E-MAIL COUNTMARDIGRAS@SANTAMARIABRAG.ORG.

THE PUBLIC IS INVITED AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AND RECEIVING YOUR SUPPORT.

Tickets available from the Central Coast Folk Fetival at their website: http://www.centralcoastfolkfestival.com A mere $10 gets you into the concert area beginning at 4:00, Dix and Jim will play at 5:15

Seating will be limited. If you've never seen Dix and Jim before, you're going to want to see and hear two of the finest flatpickers on the planet.Check them out at: http://www.jimnunally.com and http://www.musixnow.com

Jim Nunally plays with John Reischman and the Jaybirds and with David Grissman's Bluegrass Experience. Dix Bruce has written 35 teaching books for Mel Bay, has recorded 4 CDs and does studio work in addition to playing with Jim. Dix writes regular columns for "Flatpicking Guitar" and "Mandolin"Magazine. Both are sponsored by Martin Guitars.

Sunday evening, January 18th at 7:30pm
with special guests: Dorian Michael & Kenny Blackwell

The Steynberg Gallery in SLO
1531 Monterey Street (near California Street)
$15 tickets now on sale at the Steynberg

More on April Verch at: http://www.aprilverch.com

For more info & tickets by mail, call now: 805-546-2857

The information session will be held at the Nonprofit Support Center, 4102 Vachell Lane, San Luis Obispo.

The Democratic Club of Santa Maria Valley announces that they are sponsoring a dance to celebrate the Inauguration of Barack Obama on Tuesday night, January 20th from 7 – 10 PM at the YOYO Hall located in Orcutt at 725 Foster Road (between Broadway and Bradley). Tickets are $10 at the door. $6 for voting age students. There will be light snacks and a no-host bar. Celebrants are asked to bring a donation for the Food Bank. The evening will begin at 7:15 with a video of President Obama’s Inaugural Address. All the hooting and hollering and applause will lead directly into an evening of great music, and a chance to dance. Dr. Danger will provide the music! This local band plays blues, honky tonk, doo-wop, psychedelic and more. Their shows feature songs from Carl Perkins to Canned Heat, from Merle Haggard to Lou Reed, as well as original material such as "San Francisco", written to help people get on board this past election season. Dr. Danger features Brad Kyle on Guitar and Vocals, Famous Ray Wells, Harmonica and Vocals, Jerome White, Bass and Vocals, and Jim Clark, Drums and Grunts. This is the only Inaugural dance between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo, and promises to welcome in a year of new possibilities with energy and style. No reservations are required, but tickets can be pre-purchased at the local Democratic Office, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, Mondays – Fridays. The office is located at 327 E. Plaza, Suite 2. Call (349-2708) during those hours for directions.

$15/Gen, $7/Stu - Tickets at the door

Sponsored in part by Karen Spechler of Coldwell Banker Real Estate.

The "Land of Hope and Glory" features faculty members Helen Callus and Robert Koenig in romantic and dramatic viola music from the English musical renaissance of the early 20th Century: Vaughan Williams' Suite for viola and piano, Benjamin Dale's English Dances and Romance from the Viola Sonata, Op. 2, Rebecca Clarke's Morpheus and Sonata for viola and piano, as well as works by Pamela Harrison and Arthur Butterworth.

RECITAL: 7 p.m to 9 p.m.
Karl Geiringer Hall
Free Admission

The Corwin Chair presents Rohan De Sarem, renowned cellist.

Continuing its commitment to provide high-caliber, strongly-themed exhibits for the Santa Barbara community, the Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara presents Rita Blitt: Passionate Gestures on Canvas and Film, from Jan. 21 to April 17, at the Bronfman Family Jewish Community Center, 524 Chapala St. International, award-wining painter/sculptor/filmmaker Rita Blitt will attend the Jan. 21 opening of her show from 5-7 pm. A screening of her award-winning, 6-minute film, Caught in Paint, which was featured at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival will be shown at intervals throughout the reception, and available for screenings through April 17. The film is collaboration with David Parsons and the Parsons Dance Company in New York City, and international photographer Lois Greenfield. It is Blitt’s most successful film, winning many awards and included in over 115 film festivals. The exhibition is the first time that Blitt has shown in Santa Barbara; it features new works on paper, oil/acrylic, and sculpture. Her love of dance and music are apparent throughout her abstract expressionistic style of applying paint to paper and canvas. Her sculptures soar and flow with gentle rhythm. The show is curated by Lynn M. Holley. Gallery Hours: Monday-Thursday 9-5, Friday 9-3. Additional hours: Sunday, January 25, 1-3 pm. For more info contact the Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara County at (805) 957-1115, info@sbjf.org, or jewishsantabarbara.org. Rita Blitt’s website may be accessed at www.ritablitt.com.

Michigan Singer and Songwriter and environmental educator Joe Reilly on West Coast Tour appears with Ojai percussionist Judy Piazza in a special live performance of original eco-folk music. "Reilly...seamlessly combines the regional folk of Sufjan Stevens with the quirky humor of Barenaked Ladies and the multicultural activism of Ozomatli." ~Real Detroit Weekly. Fun, interactive, meaningful and musically compelling.

January 23-25, 2009 at Camp Ocean Pines, Cambria, CA Camp Ocean Pines is pleased to offer a rare opportunity to connect with Dr. Jim Darling of the Whale Trust on a weekend retreat. Learn about Jim's research regarding the song, behavior and ecology of the Humpback Whale. Talk with Jim about his latest discoveries and be among the first to have a signed copy of his brand new Humpback book. Continue the dialogue with Jim as you venture out of Morro Bay to view the southerly Gray Whales migration. See www.campoceanpines.org or call 805-927-0254 for more details.

"No living animals have captured our imaginations as have the great whales . . . They fire our imaginations and stab at our emotions. They inspire our art, literature, and music. And so they should. The indescribable blend of grace, power, and beauty of a whale as it glides underwater, leaps towards the sky, or simply lifts its flukes and slides into the sea symbolizes a vanishing poetry of the wild." Dr. James Darling, With the Whales.

A Unique Approach to Working with Couples, Families and Organizations: An Introduction to The Cape Cod Model

The Cape Cod Model is a unique, optimistic and accessible Gestalt approach to working with couples, families and organizations. This radically simple and powerful model, developed and taught at The Gestalt International Study Center (Wellfleet, Cape Cod), is based on trusting the competence of the client and the power of awareness. By learning to perceive the system formed by any couple, small group or organization, and focusing on what the system is doing well, you will dramatically increase your ability to create effective interventions that lead to change and growth. (No previous training in Gestalt therapy required.)

When: Friday, January 23, 12 noon -4 pm
Where: 524 Chapala Street, Santa Barbara
Cost: $60 includes lunch (Student rate = $45)
4 CEUs for professionals

Workshop Leaders:

Sharona Halpern, MA, LMHC is a practicing couples and family therapist with over 25 years experience. She has led groups for couples in the Boston area addressing interfaith relationships, parenting, and relationship building and is also a member of The Gestalt International Study Center (Wellfleet, MA).

Stuart N. Simon, LICSW, BCD, is a practicing Gestalt therapist with over 25 years experience working with couples, families and individuals. He is a member of the core faculty of The Gestalt International Study Center’s Cape Cod Training Program (Wellfleet, MA), and a contributing author to several articles and books on psychotherapy with individuals and couples.

Space is limited; paid registration required.

Co-Sponsored by: Jewish Family Service of Greater Santa Barbara and National Association of Social Workers, Santa Barbara

For more information, contact Paula Lowe 710-1160.

Classes will finish on Saturday, January 31st also from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For a brochure, more information, or reservations, please call Aspiranet at 1-800-439-1905, or the Grover Beach office at 473-8760.

WorkShop fee $95 Materials $45*

*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.

Call Enid at 805-967-0309 for more information or reservations.

Location: Villa Valdemosa B & B Inn, 2552 Old Grave Rd. (Entrance & Road shared with Stillwaters Winery), Paso Robles.

RSVP a must - call 237-0170. A must see venue. Come enjoy!

Place: First United Methodist Church, 925 N. F St., Lompoc

Tickets: Adult- $25, Student- $10, available at the door.

Call 735-1408 for more information and come prepared for a sizzling, energetic musical experience.

The concert, titled "Masters of the Mission" will feature works that were reconstructed by Cal Poly Music Professor and noted California mission music scholar Craig Russell from the original sources in the missions. The Early Music Ensemble will be joined by a small instrumental group, including Russell on baroque guitar. Cal Poly Music Professor Thomas Davies will conduct the performance.

Some of the repertoire for the concert is drawn from the manuscripts of Juan Bautista Sancho, a friar at Mission San Antonio in the first decades of the 19th century, including a selection from his "Misa de Los Angeles" and ‘Credo’ and ‘Sanctus’ from “Misa en Sol.”

In addition, the ensemble will perform the mass “Misa del quarto tono para 4 voces” (“Mass in Mode 4 for 4 voices”). The music was found in the choirbooks of Narciso Durán, who served at Mission San José in the early 1800s.

Movements from masses by Ignacio de Jerusalem, the chapel master in Mexico City from 1750-1769, will also be performed, as well as a few selections in plainchant from the California choirbooks.

Works from the Corpus Christi processions will be included. Parades and ceremony were indispensable tools of the friars in their goal to convert the native Californians to the Christian faith, according to Russell, who calls some of the parade pieces “quite lovely and lilting.”

The group will also perform a couple of villancicos by Manuel de Sumaya. Villancicos are church pieces meant to imitate in style the music actually heard in popular culture in the plaza, ranch, field, or city street.

Tickets range from $30-$40 and are available by calling 805-489-9444 or visiting www.clarkcenter.org.

For more information, call 805/541-7930 or visit the Blues Society website (http://www.sloblues.org/).

Sunday, Feb. 1, 10-3 pm at Mitchell Park in SLO. SLO bike kitchen will be at Mitchell Park the first Sunday of every month until we find a permanent home. We will be on hand to help fix bikes; take donations; and hold clinics. Bring food for a picnic. Info: 540-8566 or sous-chefs@slobikekitchen.org

These are all-ages events.

What is SLO bike kitchen? A bicycle kitchen is a place for the community to come together for the purpose of bicycle education, camaraderie, parts recycling and do-it-yourself work which teaches you to be confident in knowing your bike. The kitchen is a repository of bicycle tools, bicycles, bicycle parts and knowledge available to the community to draw upon at very low or no cost. We can help you build a bike from the ground up or fix up that junker you found at a garage sale. The bike kitchen is currently working for non-profit status. We don’t have a home yet, but are still looking. Heard of something? Let us know! sous-chefs@slobikekitchen.org.

The SLOMRA will be featuring several operating train layouts in HO, O, and N scales. The entire Oceano Depot, including the newly refurbished 1900's era caboose will be open to display its artifacts from Oceano and the adjacent railroad. Although this event will be a fundraiser and member development event for both organizations, the real intent of the Open House is to share the history of trains and love of model railroading with the community.

Local train buffs, historians and kids of all ages are encouraged to spend the day at the Depot! A model train Yard Sale will feature great deals on new and used model railroad items. A weekend, all-inclusive, round-trip Amtrak train ride to the Sacramento Railroad Museum will be raffled off at this event. Tickets are $1 each, or a book of 12 tickets for $10. There will be hot dogs, drinks and popcorn for purchase. Free Train hats will be available for children. Since the model train yard sale is benefiting the SLOMRA, members are seeking model train items for donations. Any one interested in donating any tax-deductible items for this yard sale, should email Jim Keating: info@slomra.org. Special offers are also being extended to individuals who become SLOMRA members during this event!

Former attorney and local author Erik O’Dowd will present his captivating novel, “Gaviota.” The story takes place during World War II and deftly weaves history, murder mystery, and courtroom thrills. Goleta Valley Library, 500 North Fairview, 964-7878. Presented by the Friends of the Goleta Valley Library LECTURE SERIES. Free of charge.

Known for her versatility as a performer, Ms. Orloff has earned acclaim in the United States and Europe as a recitalist, chamber musician, and soloist with orchestra. As a member of the Los Angeles-based Pacific Trio, she makes annual tours of the U.S. and Europe and has most recently recorded the Beethoven Triple Concerto with the Czech National Orchestra in Prague. The trio serves as ensemble-in-residence of the Idyllwild Arts summer festival, where Ms. Orloff is concert co-ordinator of the summer chamber music program.

She has helped to launch several series devoted to the works of contemporary composers. Ms. Orloff also enjoys a long-standing musical collaboration with her husband, Houston Symphony principal clarinetist David Peck.

Her program features works of Beethoven, Prokofiev, Ravel, Copland, and three contemporary American composers: John Thow, Edward David Zeliff, and Pierre Jalbert.

The church is located at 490 Los Osos Valley Road, Los Osos. Tickets are $15; students $12.00. They may be purchased at the door or reserved in advance by calling Ina Davenport at 805-550-0400.

Sunday, January 25th at 7:30pm
The Steynberg Gallery 1531 Monterey Street in San Luis Obispo
$15 tickets now on sale only at the Steynberg
More info: 805-546-2857 http:www.cambriahoot.com
Electronic images of Jim Malcolm and more info: http://www.jimmalcolm.com

With a voice as heart-meltingly beautiful, in its way, as Judy Collins, Jeff Buckley or Elizabeth Fraser and a seemingly crossroads-at-midnight transcendent brilliance in songwriting and musicianship, Jim Malcolm remains, inexplicably, not a millionaire but the Scottish folk scene's best kept secret. Mojo, March 2003

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After completing this course, you will be able to:

• Understand importance of clearly expressed client goals on a green project.
• Calculate cost/benefit of building green
• Communicate associated benefits to clients seeking a green building
• Use tools to calculate and evaluate cost/benefit of LEED Certification

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

Industry professionals seeking to increase their understanding of the LEED Rating Systems and green building strategies, benefits and resources:

• Architects • Manufacturers • Consultants • Engineers • Developers • Contractors • Owners • Designers • Government Officials

Tom will present on one of his foremost areas of expertise, "Proposing to Win: How to Write a Winning Business Proposal."

This presentation will help you kick off the New Year with powerful new strategies for seeking clients, pitching projects, or responding to requests for proposal (RFPs). Worried about being a small fish in a big pond when competing for new business?

Find out how to out-maneuver well-funded, big-name companies that don't use the secrets of persuasive proposal writing. Whether you're pursuing technical, business, or creative projects, you'll come away with the know-how to create winning proposals that stand out from the crowd.

“Only a handful of students are taking advantage of this service in SLO County,” says Tim Owens, Executive Director of RFB&D for the Central Coast which is based in Santa Barbara. “But we know that there are over a thousand students here who could benefit, but aren’t currently served. We are making these special presentations to get the word out about RFB&D.”

Celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic is the nation’s leading library recording and lending audio textbooks to students who are blind, visually impaired or learning disabled with dyslexia and other forms of visual impairment or physical disability. The mission of the organization is to provide opportunities for individual success by giving students equal access to the printed word. RFB&D is a non-profit, volunteer driven organization that relies on contributions from individuals, foundations, businesses and community organizations. The Santa Barbara Unit of RFB&D serves the Tri-counties and Kern County and was founded in 1976. It has 200 volunteers joining thousand of others nationally in producing audio textbooks and reaching students, parents, teachers and other disability specialists.

For more information: Santa Barbara, call 805-681-0531; San Luis Obispo County, call Leroy Howland, 805-550-6594.

Opening Reception:
Featuring speakers Dr. Richard E. Oglesby, co-curator and stonemason, Ozzie Da Ros
Casa de la Guerra 15 East De la Guerra Street, Santa Barbara, CA
Public Welcome | Refreshments Served

When: 1/28/09 @ 6:30 PM. One hour + Q&A with filmmaker.

Where: California Polytechnic State University, Room 002 - 203.

Cost: FREE – Sponsored by the Hellenic Club

Synopsis: Through a series of humorous and poignant interviews conducted across the US and in Greece with "random people," the documentarian's family, and activists, Seeing through the Fence explores the role of food in modern society and our connection, or lack of connection, with both the processes and animals from which our food originates. The documentary asks the question: what prevents ethical principles from being advanced into action? Facebook invite: http://www.facebook.com/photo_search.php?oid=62319425147&view=user#/event.php?eid=44679662950&ref=ts

“The EVC is pleased to partner with the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce and the City of Atascadero to offer this useful business seminar. Providing information about local resources to entrepreneurs is vital in helping businesses succeed as well as improving the health of the business community. This information is especially important during a soft economy.” said Michael Manchak, President and CEO of the Economic Vitality Corporation. Joanne Main, Atascadero Chamber of Commerce President/CEO added, “Providing education to our local businesses so they have the tools to thrive is a goal of the Chamber Board Directors, and we are glad to partner with the EVC to fulfill this goal during these tough economic times.”

The free seminar is open to the public and will be held on January 29 from 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM at the Atascadero Lake Pavilion located at 9315 Pismo Avenue, Atascadero. Refreshments are included. To learn more about this seminar and to register, call (805) 466-2044 or visit www.AtascaderoChamber.com

To join the fun call 543-2131 or download a registration form at www.missionprep.org

GET ENGAGED WITH GREAT CHAMBER MUSIC IN A UNIQUE WAY

Engage with great chamber music throughout the year with Festival Mozaic’s WinterMezzo Series. This year, Bloodlines and Bandits brings you two unique programs showcasing both musical flattery and out-right thievery in some of the world’s greatest chamber music pieces.

Each musical program includes two events to choose from;
• An evening Notable Encounter, where wine country, culinary craftsmanship and the festival’s virtuoso musicians converge in a casual café-style musical tasting menu. You’ll enjoy an intimate buffet dinner and wine with the guest artists and fellow music lovers before sitting down for a one-hour ‘insider’s perspective’, as the musicians play, talk and engage with you on this season’s great chamber music.
• The full Concert delivers the dynamic force of these great works performed in their in their entirety by the festival’s nationally-acclaimed guest artists.

Enjoy one or both events to satisfy your winter musical cravings.

Program II
Friday, January 30, 2009 6pm – NOTABLE ENCOUNTER
Saturday, January 31, 2009 8pm – CONCERT

Bandits
In the sincerest form of flattery, talent copies but genius steals. A program of out- right musical larceny in astonishing musical sleights-of-hands by master musical thieves.

Francis Poulenc - Trio for Oboe, Bassoon, and Piano
Anne Marie Gabriele, oboe
Tariq Masri, bassoon
John Novacek, piano
Filching forms from Haydn and Saint-Saëns and melodic structures from Beethoven and Mozart, this most famous of Poulenc chamber music works is a lively and lyrical musical dialogue of tonal color.

Ludwig v. Beethoven - Magic Flute Variations for Cello and Piano, Wo0 46
Trevor Handy, cello; John Novacek, piano
Variations from one musical giant written on the theme of another. The duet "Bei Mannern, welche Liebe fuhlen" from Mozart’s opera, The Magic Flute, becomes the basis for these lively variations.

Georgy Sviridov - Piano Trio
Scott Yoo, violin; Trevor Handy, cello; John Novacek, piano
Completed in just 12 days, this piano trio by one of Shostakovich’s finest students borrows directly from Shostakovich’s own Piano Trio (composed one year earlier), adding further stylistic touches that echo Tchaikovsky.

The precious edible seeds of the earth - the cereal grains, grain-legumes, oilseeds and other precious edible seeds - have a history of small-scale cultivation and utilization which dates back more than 10,000 years. Lorenz Schaller's work and the mission of the Kusa Seed Society is to increase humanity's knowledge and understanding of this very ancient relationship. Experience a colorful slide show of humanity's relationship with sacred cereal grasses such as barley, amaranth, kamut, spelt, millet, oats, quinoa, and other edible seed crops from around the world. Twenty years in the making the presentation is a pictorial tapestry woven from the threads of more than 400 international photo-images of spectacular beauty taken from remote agricultural villages and fields in places like the Himalayan mountains; rugged Ladakh; the Kingdom of Bhutan; the Tibetan plateau; rural Korea, Turkey, India, and many other lands. Lorenz founded Kusa Seed Society ( www.ancientcerealgrains.org) in 1980. Kusa is a Sanskrit word meaning sacred grass. Over time, his scientific knowledge merged with a deeper spiritual connection to the life cycles of the planet. He could see the bigger picture of how se ed crops supplied most of the world with important, densely nutritious foods. These miraculous plants feed more humans and wildlife than any other food source.

The event takes place at the Santa Barbara Public Library, Faulkner Gallery, 40 East Anapamu St, in downtown Santa Barbara, on Friday, January 30, 7-9pm, 2009. No reservations are required, donation $5. For more information please call (805) 962-2571, or email margie@sbpermaculture.org; http://www.sbpermaculture.org/upcoming.html

For the 8th consecutive year, the YMCA is teaming up with the Cal Ripken Baseball League. The YMCA will run the T-Ball & Coach Pitch Program for kid's ages 5- 8 years old, and Cal Ripken will run the Kid-Pitch Program for youth ages 8-12 years old. Registrations will be taken at the YMCA Fitness Facility at 1020 Southwood Drive, just off Laurel Lane, in San Luis Obispo through February 13th, and registration forms can also be downloaded from our website www.sloymca.org/programs.htm#tball and faxed in to the attention of Cortney Stafford, 543-6202.

Register early and save $5 on your registration fee. Fee for the season is $65 if registered by February 13th, $70 thereafter. An additional $15 annual YMCA program membership may apply if not already paid for the year. Visit http://www.sloymca.org/programs.htm or contact Cortney Stafford, 543-8235 ext. 109 or cstafford@sloymca.org to learn more about the San Luis Obispo County YMCA sports programs and sponsorships for youth and teens.

Place: Morro Bay Veteran’s Memorial Hall 209 Surf Street, Morro Bay CA 93422

Cost: $40.00 for both days, $25.00 for one. Other arrangements can be made if the cost of the retreat is prohibitive. Dana (a contribution to help Alan continue his work) is not included in the retreat fee. Bring your lunch. Tea and snacks will be provided. Bring a mat and cushion if you want to sit on the floor. Chairs will be available.

For more information, contact reference librarian Brent Field at 805.564.5623 or bfield@santabarbaraca.gov.

“As we begin the New Year with a new Congress and a new president, environmental and energy issues such as offshore drilling and climate change will be at the center of many policy debates in Washington and on the South and Central Coast, “ said Capps. “And as a member of the committees charged with finding solutions to these pressing challenges, I am eager to roll up my sleeves and tackle these important policy matters.” Capps’ appearance, hosted by the League of Women Voters of San Luis Obispo County, is part of a thrice-yearly meeting of the League’s environmental task force. The group studies and exchanges information on issues affecting the South Central Coast, focusing on both natural resources and socio-economic considerations. Current membership includes League chapters from San Luis Obispo County, Santa Barbara County, Ventura County and the City of Santa Maria.

For more information or to make reservations, call 543-2220.

Deadline for reservations is Jan. 24.

The Unitarian Society is located at 1535 Santa Barbara Street, which is at the corner of Santa Barbara and Arrellaga streets.

Donations of $15 general and $10 seniors/students are requested.

GET ENGAGED WITH GREAT CHAMBER MUSIC IN A UNIQUE WAY

Engage with great chamber music throughout the year with Festival Mozaic’s WinterMezzo Series. This year, Bloodlines and Bandits brings you two unique programs showcasing both musical flattery and out-right thievery in some of the world’s greatest chamber music pieces.

Each musical program includes two events to choose from;
• An evening Notable Encounter, where wine country, culinary craftsmanship and the festival’s virtuoso musicians converge in a casual café-style musical tasting menu. You’ll enjoy an intimate buffet dinner and wine with the guest artists and fellow music lovers before sitting down for a one-hour ‘insider’s perspective’, as the musicians play, talk and engage with you on this season’s great chamber music.
• The full Concert delivers the dynamic force of these great works performed in their in their entirety by the festival’s nationally-acclaimed guest artists.

Enjoy one or both events to satisfy your winter musical cravings.

Program II
Friday, January 30, 2009 6pm – NOTABLE ENCOUNTER
Saturday, January 31, 2009 8pm – CONCERT

Bandits
In the sincerest form of flattery, talent copies but genius steals. A program of out- right musical larceny in astonishing musical sleights-of-hands by master musical thieves.

Francis Poulenc - Trio for Oboe, Bassoon, and Piano
Anne Marie Gabriele, oboe
Tariq Masri, bassoon
John Novacek, piano
Filching forms from Haydn and Saint-Saëns and melodic structures from Beethoven and Mozart, this most famous of Poulenc chamber music works is a lively and lyrical musical dialogue of tonal color.

Ludwig v. Beethoven - Magic Flute Variations for Cello and Piano, Wo0 46
Trevor Handy, cello; John Novacek, piano
Variations from one musical giant written on the theme of another. The duet "Bei Mannern, welche Liebe fuhlen" from Mozart’s opera, The Magic Flute, becomes the basis for these lively variations.

Georgy Sviridov - Piano Trio
Scott Yoo, violin; Trevor Handy, cello; John Novacek, piano
Completed in just 12 days, this piano trio by one of Shostakovich’s finest students borrows directly from Shostakovich’s own Piano Trio (composed one year earlier), adding further stylistic touches that echo Tchaikovsky.

This trio started when the performers were in high school and only the violinist has changed. They are all soloists, studio musicians, and John Walz is principal cellist and Roger Wilkie is concert master for the LA Opera. They have been invited to make a CD in Vienna of all American music. The evening includes Copeland, Bernstein, and "Porgy and Bess" by Gershwin. Edie Orloff is a soloist as well as collaborator with many artists, including her husband who is principal clarinetist of a symphony in Texas. They have been on our series since the early '80's.

This year’s concert is an All American Composer program. The selections all come from the first half of the 20th century. It begins with Robert Muczynski’s Trio No. 1, Op. 24 and into Leonard Bernstein’s Trio. After a brief intermission it continues with Aaron Copeland’s Vitebsk, a study on a Jewish Theme and concludes with a medley based on George Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess”, an arrangement by Heifetz & Clutterham.

The Concert will begin at 8pm at St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley-Episcopal Church 2901 Nojoqui in Los Olivos. Doors open at 7:30. As well as the evening concert there will be a free informal afternoon performance from 3:30 to 4:00pm the day of the concerts at the church for anyone in the community. Ticket Prices are as follows-Individual Tickets(Each Concert): Preferred Seats $30, General Admission $20, Student General Admission $10. For more concert series information please contact Rose Knoles at (805)688-4933 or visit the website www.pastelmotif.com/losme.html. Tickets are available at St. Mark’s Church at (805) 688-4454, The Book Loft 1680 Mission Drive in Solvang-(805) 688-6010. Tickets will also be available at the door.