Thursday, December 1st, 2011
Time: 9 AM - 4 PM

Join us for this new 6-hour accelerated course that will get you up to speed using QuickBooks and provide hands-on experience in our computer lab. Topics include setting up company files, navigation, working with Lists, Centers, and Reports, creating invoices, managing vender accounts and inventory, and more.

Class size is limited, so register early!

Price: $85.00
Register online at kcbx.net or call 805-781-2580.

Unique show.

This show challenges the audience to choose work without seeing who

painted it. Artist signature is on the back. The buyer selects based only

on his or her attraction to the work. All works are by fine artists of serious

reputation. But the issue is what attracts you?

All paintings are original.  All paintings priced at $50
 

Paintings by Cambria's highly gifted and most cherished local artists will

be exhibited for sale at Cambria Center for the Arts, 1350 Main Street, Cambria.
The Opening reception, Dec 1, from 5 to 9, will include free refreshments, music and holiday atmosphere.

The public is invited, Free of charge.

• 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1
• 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4

Founded in 2006, casebolt and smith are a Los Angeles-based theater duo that skirt the proverbial line between the profound and the absurd, often siding with humor and irreverence. O(h) evolves from demonstrations of what they can, can’t, and won’t do into intricate movement phrases layered with pop culture references.  Speaking directly to the audience while dancing and sometimes singing, they offer honest insights into their limitations as a duet company and their fear of becoming unoriginal. The result is a fast-paced, complex and hilarious glimpse into the minds and pants of casebolt and smith.

Support for Forum Lounge 2011-2012 is generously provided by: the National Endowment for the Arts, Andrea Lang Fund, Daniel Clark, Endevermusic Productions, the Franciscan Inn, KCSB, Santa Barbara Independent, Santa Barbara Winery, and Therese Schweidler.  Forum Lounge is presented in association with the Santa Barbara Downtown Organization’s 1st Thursday. 

ADMISSION IS FREE

Learn about California Native Plants

The monthly meeting of San Luis Obispo Chapter of the California Native Plant Society will be held Thursday, December 1, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. at the San Luis Obispo Veteran’s Hall, 801 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo. The featured speaker will be Daniel Gluesenkamp, Executive Director of Calflora Datebase.

The Calflora Database is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information about California plant biodiversity for use in education, research, and conservation.  Calflora is structured as a digital library.

Gluesenkamp’s talk will provide an overview of Calflora’s suite of tools, including Android and iPhone mapping apps, geotagged photo submission tools, GIS upload and display tools, and even tools for planning and tracking conservation action.  Following the talk will be a discussion of upcoming projects, how these tools and information can be applied to solving growing conservation challenges, and what it will mean when we know where all California’s plants can be found.

Prior to joining Calflora, Dan worked for Audubon Canyon Ranch, leading habitat protection and restoration work across 30 properties and conducting research on the impact of invasive turkey and nitrogen deposition on vernal pools.  He earned his Ph.D. in 2001 with “The ecology of native and introduced thistles,” and in 2009 ,discovered a Franciscan manzanita plant growing on a traffic island at the Golden Gate Bridge.  Daniel Gluesenkamp is a founder and past president of the California Invasive Plant Council and co-founder of the Bay Area Early Detection Network (BAEDN).

Six-time Emmy-winning composer, Grammy- nominated musician, and nationally-syndicated radio host John Tesh begins the holiday season with John Tesh: Big Band Christmas, Thursday, December 1, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center’s Cohan Center

The new tour features the master pianist performing holiday classics with all new big band arrangements.  Tesh will perform  his signature piano and vocals along with an 11-piece rhythm and horn section, showcasing holiday classics such as  “Sleigh Ride,” “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” “Let it Snow,” as well as solo piano versions of “What Child is This?,” “Jingle Bells,” and additional selections from his new hit Christmas CD, Big Band Christmas.

The City of Pismo Beach Recreation Division & Beach Bum Holiday Rentals are joining forces for our FREE 11^th Annual Holiday Harmony celebration on Friday, December 2^nd.   New to this years’ celebration is the inauguration of Light Up Pismo Beach!

The Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony will take place at 6:00 p.m. when everyone stroll’s behind Santa riding the Pismo Beach antique fire truck to the Pismo Beach Promenade Plaza to light the tree.  

Immediately following the tree lighting, the inaugural Light up Pismo Beach will commence when Santa illuminates miles of strands of holiday lights strung through downtown Pismo Beach! 

Holiday Harmony will take place from 5:30 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 visit Santa in his house and a free digital photo will be taken. There will be fresh snow, bounce houses, crafts, music and cookie decorating, provided by the City of Pismo Beach Recreation Division. 

The Damon Castillo Band will be featured at the University Jazz Bands' Fall Jazz Concert at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, in the Spanos Theatre at Cal Poly.

The university’s big band and jazz combo will perform well-known standards and cutting-edge contemporary jazz. The band, with Music major Olivia Tenney as featured vocalist, will play Pat Metheny’s “See the World” and the world premiere of Music alumnus Steve Carlton’s “Close Call,” among other works.

The Damon Castillo Band will perform the finale. Metro Santa Cruz called the Damon Castillo Band “… a five-piece powerhouse … Their music is an inventive form of pop, combining elements of rock, soul and jazz.”

START, RUN, AND GROW YOUR BUSINESS COURSE
The 14-week class is based on the curriculum developed by business planning expert Tim Berry, who taught the course at the University of Oregon for over ten years. Berry is the creator of Business Plan Pro Software and is the founder of Palo Alto Software. Mission Community Services Corporation and the Women's Business Center have developed a working relationship with Berry and his company. The course materials are available to the students of the WBC offering at a deep discounted rate. Retail value of the materials including perks found in the software is over $450.

During the course of the class, students will learn to understand what an entrepreneur is and how to ask questions like: What need is there for my business to fill; How do I build a team for my business; What are the tax implications for my business; What type of financing is right for my business and How do I forecast sales and expenses. Many other topics will be covered.

The class will start at 6:00 pm and run till 9:00 pm. There will be guest speakers and a team facilitation approach for this class. David Ryal, Program Director of the Women's Business Center will be joined by Consultants Al Brill, Christine Sommer and Polly Mertens.
CALL TO RSVP TODAY!
 

WHO: Snowy Plover Docent & Intern Program

WHAT: TRAINING SESSION for DOCENT PROGRAM

WHEN: Saturday, December 3 9AM – 12:30 PM

WHERE: UCSB Campus, West Campus Conference Center @ Devereux
Slough Road at Coal Oil Point Reserve

INFO: Docent Program Coordinator, April Price
Office: 805-893-3703 copr.conservation@lifesci.ucsb.edu

WHY: Western Snowy Plover is a threatened species. Nesting on the open
sand makes them very vulnerable. Often their eggs and chicks are at risk
of being stepped on or destroyed by unknowing beach users or off leash
dogs. This is where the docents
come in, and make a difference. Docents provide a personal and friendly
contact for beach users. They promote public interest and understanding,
and in turn, dramatically increase the effectiveness of other plover/tern
management efforts at the Reserve. Once a docent, only two hours a
week is required. The docent program is credited with being the most
important aspect of the species rehabitation of Sands Beach and
subsequent nesting.

As of 2011 the Snowy Plover Program completed ten years of activity with
more than 500 nests created. During this time, the number of plovers
wintering at Coal Oil Point Reserve doubled and the number of breeding
pairs rose from none to an average of 20 pairs. The recovery of a
breeding population at the Reserve demonstrates success in protecting a
bird species that is vulnerable to urban sprawl. With research,
management, education, and the undaunted efforts of many docents &
volunteers, Sands Beach at Coal Oil Point Reserve is once again a habitat
for wildlife in harmony with its recreational use.

To register, please contact the Program Coordinator, April Price
office: 805-893-3703 copr.conservation@lifesci.ucsb.edu

Like us on Facebook at : Snowy Plover Docent Program (SPDP)
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=21368290347&ref=ts#!

http://coaloilpoint.ucnrs.org

More Info: coaloilpoint.ucnrs.org

Quiet Morning of Art and Meditation

Step aside from the holiday hustle on Saturday, Dec. 3, to reflect on the deeper meaning of Solstice, Advent and Christmas at a Quiet Morning at St. Benedict's Episcopal Church in Los Osos. The observance from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. will include time to reflect on poetry, to sit quietly in personal meditation, and to take reflections deeper through art and journaling

Led by Bob Pelfrey, professor emeritus of art at Cuesta College, and the Rev. Dr. Caroline Hall, the session will be open to all who would like to meet with others in a time of quiet soul connection. A $10 donation is suggested to cover costs of materials and snacks. St. Benedict's is located one block south of the intersection of Clark Valley and Los Osos Valley roads. For more information, telephone (805) 528-0654.

Bigger and better than any of the previous Urban Wine Trail Holiday Party’s for Unity Shoppe – this year’s event boasts 16 participants – with most of those wineries located in the city limits. On Saturday, December 3 starting at 6:00PM guests can tour the unique Urban Wine Trail in the comfort of a luxury shuttle. Each winery will pour four limited release wines from Santa Barbara County accompanied by delicious appetizers.  Tickets are only $50 and 100% of the proceeds will benefit the UnityShoppe. 

Christian Garvin, owner/winemaker at Oreana Winery, who along with Unity’s Executive Director, Tom Reed conceived the Urban Wine Trail event for the Unity Shoppe four years ago, each bring unique elements to the festivities.  Reed, dressed in his tuxedo, will chauffeur folks in his classic Rolls Royce (seats only four) around the wineries. While Garvin’s winery at the epicenter of the Urban Wine Trail (Anacapa & Yanonali Sts.) will have live music to add a bounce in your step as you sample and taste your way around the Urban Wine Trail.

Shuttles, donated by Easy Lift, will tour people from winery to winery, although many of the wineries located in the downtown Funk Zone are within walking distance of one another.

Participating wineries include: Carr Vineyards & Winery, Jaffurs Wine Cellars, Kalyra Winery, Kunin Wines, Margerum Wine Co., Municipal Winemakers, Oreana Winery, Santa Barbara Winery, Summerland Winery, and Whicraft Winery. New additions to the Holiday Party on the Urban Wine Trail are: Au Bon Climat, Cottonwood Canyon, Babcock Winery & Vineyards, and Pali plus, tasting rooms/wine stores:  Corks & Crowns, La Tour and Deep Sea rounding out the cohorts of Christmas cheer.

Holidays on the Urban Wine Trail tickets are $50 per person, which give you a passport, map and logo glass, are available at all the participating wineries and from the Unity Shoppe at 805.965.4122. Online you can purchase them @ www.oreanwinery.com

.

Location: Oreana Winery, 205 Anacapa St., Santa Barbara, 93101

Dinner, Drinks and Delilah! 

Come join Local Chanteuse DELILAH for a celebration of great music, great food, and a fond farewell to the Central Coast.  Delilah will be giving it her all Saturday night, December 3 from 7:30 -11 at Kreuzberg’s latest sensational spot   The SIDECAR– It’s Jazz, it’s Cabaret,  music that is passionate, bawdy, romantic and intense,  all delivered with an international flair.

Delilah worked alongside Bette Midler in her New York days and has been weaving her performance mystique ever since, from the Kreuzberg to the Steynberg, the Santa Barbara French Festival to Japan.  This is what ‘Old School’ is really all about - from the music of Edith Piaf, Brel, Amy Winehouse, Diana Krall, Fats Waller, Sondheim to the Great American Songbook  an outrageous entertainment will be had by all.

This festive annual concert will put you in the mood for the holidays. Join us for an evening of the season’s most beautiful music! A carol sing-a-long included!

Performers include:

• PolyPhonics   
• The University Singers    
• Early Music Ensemble
• Take It SLO
• Cal Poly Brass Ensemble
• Christopher Woodruff, conductor
• Paul Woodring, university organist
• Susan Azaret Davies, accompanist

The San Luis Obipso Chapter of the California Native Plant Society will host a 3 mile (4.8K) round trip hike with 600' (1830 m) elevation gain on a good dirt trail. Flowers, bushes and trees along the way will be identified and explained. Meet in the marina parking lot in Morro Bay State Park across from the campground entrance right next to the Natural History Museum. Rain cancels.  For additional info, call leader Al Normandin at 534-0462.

• The Source of Real Happiness: Inner Peace
• Filling Our Mind with Beauty: Making Offerings
• Whatever Anyone Needs: Selfless Giving
• A Meaningful Life: Non-Harmfulness and Benefit
• Renouncing Negativity: Overcoming Our Delusions
• Protecting Our Mind: Mindfulness & Alertness
• Stopping Distraction: As Impassive As Wood
• Quiet Confidence: Humility & Consideration

Begin the Christmas season with an afternoon with the award winning Celebration Chorus.  We'll sing old favorites and new songs that are sure to have you humming the melody after the show.  It will be held at the 1st United Methodist Church, 275 N. Halcyon, Arroyo Grande.  The price is only $5.00 at the door.

The four dynamic, wickedly-talented and forward-thinking musicians of the superb Calder Quartet continue to expand their musicianship and acclaim through a unique array of traditional works and innovative modern projects.

The harvest has been gathered and its fruits are yours to share in this traditional holiday concert. Gather family and friends together to hear classic cathedral songs, favorite carols, and contemporary holiday tunes, rekindling your passion for the season. The perfect solution to the challenge of “getting in the spirit” of Christmas!

The San Luis Obispo Vocal Arts Ensemble has been singing and performing beautiful music for over 30 years, both at home and abroad. This 40-50 member group of professionals alternate an international tour with the hosting of the International Choral Competition and Festival, held in San Luis Obispo every odd year. Directed by Gary Lamprecht, Vocal Arts Ensemble provides patrons with a powerful, energizing choral performance that ranges from classical pieces in Latin or Italian, to American Pop Classics, to audience favorite sing-a-longs. Our season consists of three concert series, held in venues all over San Luis Obispo County, in December, March and June.

The concert described below has been dedicated to the memory of Rabbi Scott Corngold, who passed away unexpectedly this past weekend. The performers have prepared a special set of Hebrew songs to honor Rabbi Scott's life and work. 

Direct from their appearances at South-by-Southwest, the Kate Wolf and Strawberry festivals, and other national and international venues, Alisa Fineman and Kimball Hurd will perform a benefit concert at Congregation Beth David in San Luis Obispo.  Long-time favorites in the San Francisco and Monterey Bay areas, this fresh folk, rock, pop duo has earned national acclaim for their songwriting and world music repertoire.  Their gorgeous harmonies and exquisite blend of acoustic instruments and insightful lyrics speak directly to the heart.

Parking is free at our beautiful, green (LEED certified) building at 10180 Los Osos Valley Road.  Tickets are $18 in advance, $20 at the door (cash price).  Call CBD at 805-544-0760 to reserve tickets in advance.

During this fun and entertaining session, Paul Kanarek a veteran of The Princeton Review will highlight the most recent changes in college admissions. Students and parents will leave with a better understanding of the admissions process, and some helpful hints and tips to navigating the stress! This event will be hosted by San Marcos High School, it is free and open to the community.  Sophomores and Juniors are high encouraged to attend.

START, RUN, AND GROW YOUR BUSINESS COURSE
The 14-week class is based on the curriculum developed by business planning expert Tim Berry, who taught the course at the University of Oregon for over ten years. Berry is the creator of Business Plan Pro Software and is the founder of Palo Alto Software. Mission Community Services Corporation and the Women's Business Center have developed a working relationship with Berry and his company. The course materials are available to the students of the WBC offering at a deep discounted rate. Retail value of the materials including perks found in the software is over $450.

During the course of the class, students will learn to understand what an entrepreneur is and how to ask questions like: What need is there for my business to fill; How do I build a team for my business; What are the tax implications for my business; What type of financing is right for my business and How do I forecast sales and expenses. Many other topics will be covered.

The class will start at 6:00 pm and run till 9:00 pm. There will be guest speakers and a team facilitation approach for this class. David Ryal, Program Director of the Women's Business Center will be joined by Consultants Al Brill, Christine Sommer and Polly Mertens.
CALL TO RSVP TODAY!
  

Join us in an informal time of meditation, chanting with AWAKENING's Kirtan group, and questions and answers about the spiritual path of Kriya Yoga.

This is a unique opporunity to meet with an internationally known and respected teacher and author, Reverend Ellen Grace O'Brian, founder of the Center for Spiritual Enlightenment in San Jose, CA.

Rev. O'Brian's visit to Morro Bay is in support of AWAKENING Interfaith Spiritual Community's affiliation with CSE. AWAKENING's founder Rev. Nancy Ballinger attended seminary at CSE under Rev. O'Brian and was ordained by her in 2000.

The Annual Fungal Foray in Cambria will be held Saturday, December 10, 2011, 9:00 a.m. Led by David Krause, Mark Brunschwiler, and Dennis Sheridan, this morning field trip will look for mushrooms growing in the Monterey pine forests of Cambria.  Meet at the Cambria Veteran’s Hall, 1000 Main St., Cambria. For carpool from San Luis Obispo, meet at the San Luis Obispo Veterans Hall parking lot, 801 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo at 8:00 a.m.  There are no public restrooms on the field trip. Bring water, your field guides and a mushroom basket. Dress appropriately for the weather. Be prepared for poison oak. The hike will be easy, about a 3 hour stroll through the woods. For additional information e-mail or call David Krause (dkincmbria@aol.com (805) 927-5182) or Bill Waycott (bill.waycott@gmail.com (805) 459-2103).

We all want the delicate balance of peace and harmony in our life and relationships. It is often hard to get all the conditions together for harmonious interactions with others, since it is hard to understand others and where they are coming from.

Using Buddhist teachings and meditation techniques, American Buddhist monk Kelsang Wangpo will lead a morning retreat on how to better understand those around us and develop more harmonious relationships.

Leave the stress of difficult relationships behind. Discover the secrets to harmony.

The Stillehavet Lodge of the Sons of Norway is having its Annual “Jultrefest!” Christmas Celebration, on Saturday, December 10, 2011, at 1:00 pm, Odd Fellows Lodge, 520 Dana St., San Luis Obispo, CA.  The public is invited.  We will also be having a “Baked Goods and Appetizers Potluck Lunch” so bring some of your favorite dishes to share.  Come join in the fun at this Nordic holiday get-together for the whole family!!!  Call (805) 748-5674 for more information. 

Seasons greetings! The Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo proudly presents Lori Lee Silvaggio's, The Nutcracker. Don't miss the central coasts most cherished and fantastic holiday tradition. Professional dancing, sets, and costumes transform the Performing Arts Center into Clara's house and the beautiful Land of Sweets right before your very eyes.  Truly a ballet event that everyone in the family will enjoy.  Don’t forget the Sugar Plum party after the Sunday Matinee; A chance to meet your favorite Nutcracker characters for autographs and photos.

It's Christmas eve, and Clara is about to have the night of her dreams. 

Seasons greetings! The Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo proudly presents Lori Lee Silvaggio's, The Nutcracker. Don't miss the central coasts most cherished and fantastic holiday tradition. Professional dancing, sets, and costumes transform the Performing Arts Center into Clara's house and the beautiful Land of Sweets right before your very eyes.  Truly a ballet event that everyone in the family will enjoy.  Don’t forget the Sugar Plum party after the Sunday Matinee; A chance to meet your favorite Nutcracker characters for autographs and photos.

It's Christmas eve, and Clara is about to have the night of her dreams. 

The last SLO contra dance of the year is Saturday December 10. 
The caller will be Jean Gorrindo, and the band will be Calliope Houses.
There's an introductory workshop at 7:00pm, then dancing from 7:30pm until 10:30pm.
The cost is $9, and ages 16 and under are free.
It's all at the Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana Street, San Luis Obispo.
For more info, visit www.cccds.org.

Contra dance evolved from the early English, Scottish, Irish, and French country dances which came over with the first immigrants to the USA. It is very lively and social, and very easy to learn, almost as easy as walking! You don't need to bring a partner with you, but it's lots of fun to come with a group of friends. Everyone ends up dancing with everyone at the contra dance!

A big, bold musical set in 1933, 42nd Street is a celebration of Broadway dreams, hard work and love.  Featuring exhilarating dance numbers and unforgettable tunes such as “Lullaby of Broadway,” “We’re in the Money,” and of course, “42nd Street,” the show chronicles the journey of young actress, Peggy Sawyer from naïve chorus girl to budding star.

42nd Street is directed by Robyn Metchik, choreographed by Emmy-winner, Suzy Miller with musical  direction by Mark Robertshaw and promises to be a show-stopping evening of pure entertainment for all ages! Tickets are available through the Clark Center box office by phoning 489-9444 or online at www.clarkcenter.org. For more information about the internationally acclaimed Nipomo High School drama program log on to www.nhsdrama.org... 

Holiday Arts & Crafts Faire at the Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa!  Join us for an event featuring local artists presenting various unique, hand-crafted specialty items.  This event is free and open to the public so be sure not to miss out on some amazing gifts for the holidays!

Join the dancers of Pacific Dance under the direction of Karen Garman as they perform "Holiday Sweets" December 11th, 2011 at 2pm at the Cal Poly Spanos Theater.  "Holiday Sweets" is a ballet danced by children for children based on the beloved holiday classic, Nutcracker Suite. 

Enjoy over 100 children ages 1 1/2 to 10 perform in front of magical backdrops and the original classical music.  Tickets $10 a seat/general admission available by calling Pacific Dance Center (805)772-7119.

Edelweiss Choir of Santa Barbara

Accompanied by a String Quartet & featuring

Soprano Christine Hollinger

Julia Neufeld, Music Director – Nelson Huber, KeyboardWeihnachtskonzert

A Traditional Christmas Concert

Christmas Cantata with Strings and Soprano Solo

“Lauft, ihr Hirten, all zugleich“

(Run, ye Shepherds, to the Light)

 by Michael Haydn

Ladies and Gentlemen:
     Once again, we are proud to present another Gala Holiday Edition of 
Big Variety Night at Linnaea's Cafe, 1110 Garden St., San Luis Obispo, 
this Sunday, Dec. 11th.
     Hosted by Ted Waterhouse  and featuring, as always, a series of 
short and sweet sets by some of the area's top musicians and 
performers, BVN runs from 6:30 to 10:00PM and is Absolutely Free of 
Charge!
     This month's bill includes (in order of battle): Matthias Clark and 
the Cry, The Dentures, Don Lampson, Chick Tuesday, Peter Yelda, Bob & 
Wendy, Randall Lamb, Amber Cross, Karen Tylen and Heartbreak Hill 
(which is Jody Mulgrew and Erin Inglish). Needless to say, it's going 
to be a most astounding and, dare I say, rip roaring evening. Don't 
miss it.

Second Sunday at Seven. Linnaea Phillips and Jane Elsdon will be our featured poets on December 11 at 7 p.m. at the Coalesce Bookstore Chapel, 845 Main St., Morro Bay. Open reading follows. Bring holiday fingerfood to share. 772-2880.

START, RUN, AND GROW YOUR BUSINESS COURSE
The 14-week class is based on the curriculum developed by business planning expert Tim Berry, who taught the course at the University of Oregon for over ten years. Berry is the creator of Business Plan Pro Software and is the founder of Palo Alto Software. Mission Community Services Corporation and the Women's Business Center have developed a working relationship with Berry and his company. The course materials are available to the students of the WBC offering at a deep discounted rate. Retail value of the materials including perks found in the software is over $450.

During the course of the class, students will learn to understand what an entrepreneur is and how to ask questions like: What need is there for my business to fill; How do I build a team for my business; What are the tax implications for my business; What type of financing is right for my business and How do I forecast sales and expenses. Many other topics will be covered.

The class will start at 6:00 pm and run till 9:00 pm. There will be guest speakers and a team facilitation approach for this class. David Ryal, Program Director of the Women's Business Center will be joined by Consultants Al Brill, Christine Sommer and Polly Mertens.
CALL OR EMAIL TO RSVP TODAY!
  

FREE WEBINAR!

12 Ways to Boost Productivity in 2012

 Wednesday, December 14

10:00 -10:30 a.m. PST

Presented by: Erin Hoffman   

Is 2012 going to be your best year ever? It's up to you! Join Productivity Specialist, Erin Hoffman, for a fun discussion about new software, time management tips, technology trends and proven strategies that will aid you in the New Year.

 Erin helps busy professionals and businesses save time and get more done!

FREE WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP - SLIM DOWN SLO "KICK-OFF" EVENT

This free weight loss support group will be meeting weekly on Wednesdays from 12:10 - 1:10 p.m. beginning on June 1st with a "Kick-Off" event at the French Hospital "Bistro Cafe" (1911 Johnson Avenue, SLO). "Heart Healthy" lunch options are available at reasonable prices and the outdoor "Fitness Zone" workout equipment may be used free of charge.

For more information, go to  www.SlimDownSLO.blogspot.com or email SlimDownSLO@gmail.com

The December monthly meeting of the Santa Barbara Macintosh Users Group (SBMUG) will be a Christmas potluck on Thursday, December 15.

We’ll gather at Laguna Cottages for Seniors, 803 Laguna Street (corner of De la Guerra), courtesy of SBMUG Vice President Richard Johnston and management, at 5:30 PM. Parking on the street. 

Everyone is invited. Please bring a hot or cold dish for six to share.

Coffee, cider and water will be provided. Wine is permitted. 

Table service and napkins provided also.

We urge you to also bring a food item for Foodbank—tinned, packaged, non-perishable only. Or you may prefer to donate. The Foodbank turns every dollar into $15 worth of nutritious food. 

Usually only members may enter the drawings for prizes (you may join at any meeting for $25 per year); however, this evening a free drawing ticket will be given to anyone bringing a dish, wearing your SBMUG shirt or presenting your postcard. 

For additional SBMUG information, please visit http://sbmug.org or call 967-2866.

Do come for feasting and fun, good company and holiday cheer!

-Meet local participating contractors
-Hear about financing options
-Improve home comfort and indoor air quality
-Lower utility bills and save money
-Support local green jobs

START, RUN, AND GROW YOUR BUSINESS COURSE
The 14-week class is based on the curriculum developed by business planning expert Tim Berry, who taught the course at the University of Oregon for over ten years. Berry is the creator of Business Plan Pro Software and is the founder of Palo Alto Software. Mission Community Services Corporation and the Women's Business Center have developed a working relationship with Berry and his company. The course materials are available to the students of the WBC offering at a deep discounted rate. Retail value of the materials including perks found in the software is over $450.

During the course of the class, students will learn to understand what an entrepreneur is and how to ask questions like: What need is there for my business to fill; How do I build a team for my business; What are the tax implications for my business; What type of financing is right for my business and How do I forecast sales and expenses. Many other topics will be covered.

The class will start at 6:00 pm and run till 9:00 pm. There will be guest speakers and a team facilitation approach for this class. David Ryal, Program Director of the Women's Business Center will be joined by Consultants Al Brill, Christine Sommer and Polly Mertens.
CALL OR EMAIL TO RSVP TODAY!
  

On December 16, 2011, at the San Luis Botanical Garden, two local chefs, Tom Drahos and Tom Neuhaus, will demonstrate the intersection of molecular science and principles of cooking, called molecular gastronomy. Tom Drahos is the pastry chef at Windows on the Water in Morro Bay, and Tom Neuhaus is a professor emeritus from the Department of Food Science & Nutrition at Cal Poly.

The audience will taste four dishes designed to illustrate modern molecular gastronomy methods, especially spherification, gellification, and emulsification, as demonstrated in the world’s most famous restaurant, El Bulli, of Roses, Spain by its chef, Ferran Adriàn. As we work, we will discuss how scientific principles make the food we are demonstrating possible. Samples of our work will be passed out tapas-style to the audience.

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO PROJECT HOPE AND FAIRNESS, to facilitate the procurement of scales, dryness meters, and other tools for cocoa farmers in Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Ghana. Please see the reverse to learn more about the missions of Project Hope and Fairness. Silent auction items to raise money for students to go to West Africa with Dr. Neuhaus and to add electricity to Broguhe’s sewing room (in Côte d’Ivoire).

INTERESTED? Email tom@projecthopeandfairness.org to arrange for tickets. Tickets also available for pickup or purchase at Promotion Plus, 4104 Vachell Lane, San Luis Obispo. 805.541.5730

The Paso Robles Youth Arts Foundation Presents:  FrUiTCaKeS, a Christmas Comedy, by Julian Wiles, directed by Justin Thieleman.  December 15^th, 16^th& 17^th at 7:00 p.m., with an additional Matinee, Saturday the 17^th at 2:00 p.m.  Doors open half hour before curtain at the Berg Auditorium, 3201 Spring Street, Paso Robles. Bring the family to see our holiday comedy filled with nutty, colorful characters.  Ticket Prices: $10 Adults, $5 Children 12 and under. For questions or to purchase tickets, please call (805) 238-5825. 

Oats Peak-Coon CreekLoop, Montaña de Oro State Park, Peco Rd., Los Osos.  A moderately-difficult hike up the side of Valencia Peak, following the ridge to Oaks Peak, then dropping into Coon Creek Canyon and returning to the start. Hiking distance is 8 miles (13K) with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet (396 m), and total of 4 hours. Meet at the parking lot area at the start of the Bluff Trail near the visitors’ center at Spooner’s Cove. Bring adequate water, snacks, and dress in layers for the weather; a hat and sturdy shoes are advised. For info, call Bill at (805) 459-2103, bill.waycott@gmail.com. The plants, animals, and the geology of the area will be topics during the hike. Rain and/or threat of rain cancels.

The Santa Barbara County Genealogical Society holds its monthly general meeting on Saturday, December 17^th, at the First Presbyterian Church, 21 E. Constance at State Street, 9:30 am to 12:00 pm.  Special intersest Groups meet at 9:30am for Beginning Genealogy, German Ancestry, and Computer Genealogy and 9:00am for JewishGen.  Featured program starts at 10:30am.
 
This month’s meeting features a Society favorite- the Members Share meeting! Three members will share stories of interest found in their research. Jim Wilson will present Aha! - Uh-oh, which deals with the times when the thrill of an Aha! moment may not turn out to be quite what is expected. Bruce McIver shares a fascinating story of one of his ancestors in Agnes McIver: The Story of a Quarrier's Orphan and Robert Lynn will give a history of Castle Garden, the precursor of Ellis Island. He will also give tips on how to research the Castle Garden Website. Guests welcome!
 
Special interest Groups meet at 9:30am for Beginning Genealogy, German Ancestry, and Computer Genealogy and 9:00am for JewishGen.  Featured program starts at 10:30am.
 
Come join us. You do not need to be a member to enjoy this wonderful presentation.
 
A calendar of genealogical events can be found at the Society web site (http://sbgen.org/events.php).

WHO:        AtascaderoCommunity Band
 
WHAT:      Holiday Concert
 
WHEN:      Saturday, December 17, 2011 at 1:00PM
 
WHERE:   AtascaderoBible Church
                   6225 Atascadero Mall Street
                   Atascadero, California
                   
CHARGE:  Free.  Proceeds from this concert are designated to benefit Toys for Tots.  All contributions are welcome and are tax deductable.  Federal I.D. #770280653
 
CONTACT:  (805)239 4644
           
This free concert given by the Atascadero Community Band will feature familiar music heard during the holiday season.  Many of these traditional tunes will be presented in nontraditional and exotic ways.  The band will warm your hearts and evoke pleasant memories of holidays past.  Come, support a worthy cause, and be prepared to enjoy a wonderful performance. Handicapped parking is available.

Greetings and Merry Christmas from San Miguel! The Mission Street Parade Committee for the December 17th Electric Lights Parade and Christmas Sidewalk Sale invites interested vendors to contact Mike Sanders at (805) 712-9120 if they'd like to take part in our annual Christmas Sidewalk Sale. We need arts, crafts and jewelry. Also, Toys for Tots will have toy distribution after the Parade at the Fire Department on Mission Street. If you'd like to include your float in the parade, contact Miki Landseadel at (805) 975-6996 for more information. Come one and all and enjoy the parade!

December 17th at 6:30 PM 

A benefit Christmas Concert for the SLO Food Bank - Bring your family & join us! 
Professional local musicians performing Christmas classics

Valley View Adventist Academy 
230 Vernon St., Arroyo Grande

$1 minimum donation requested per person at the door.

Performances by: 
Formal Proof 
Jacob & Karaleigh Garrison 
Jonathan Hurst
Bradley & Benjamin Wyett 

Join the Cuesta Master Chorale as they perform a variety of pieces for the holidays.

The Cuesta Master Chorale is a large (80-120 members) chorale that specializes in performing major classical works from every musical period and in a variety of styles, including contemporary works written especially for the chorale. 

A traditional holiday show with an interactive twist!  The fifth annual Forbes Pipe Organ Holiday Concert & Sing-Along comes to the Performing Arts Center, December 18, 2011 at 3:00 p.m.  This memorable, heart-warming concert features performances by the Vocal Arts Ensemble, Central Coast Children's Choir, and Cal Poly University Organist Paul Woodring playing a collection of holiday carols on the magnificent Forbes Pipe Organ while audience members sing along.

All proceeds will benefit the Performing Arts Center's Youth Outreach program (YOPAC) and the two participating community choirs.  The Forbes Pipe Organ Holiday Concert & Sing-Along provides a unique chance to bring family, friends, and fellow residents together for an afternoon of joyous holiday song.  Be a part of creating this Central Coast holiday tradition!

Best of 2011 Celebrated in Concert at The Spot
                                   – Part 2                             

Dec. 19, 2011, 7:00 – 9:30 pm

The Spot
116 W. Branch Street, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
805-474-5711
 
All ages OK, general admission $10 at the door

A typical Songwriters At Play showcase has just one featured artist, but on Monday Dec. 19 at The Spot, all of the performers will share the featured spotlight. It’s a celebration of local music, end-of-the-year “best of” showcase which includes Steve Bernal, Rob Kimball, Valerie Johnson, Al B Blue, Karen Tyler, Young Ireland, Kelly Wildowsky & Michele Casteel, and Bob & Wendy.

Cliff Stepp will record the show for later broadcast on The Krush 92.5FM, which airs Songwriters At Play showcase highlights every Monday 6-7pm (repeats on Fridays 1-2pm; go to the Music tab on this website to hear our debut show). The Spot is located at 116 W. Branch St., in the village of Arroyo Grande (next to Doc Burnstein's Ice Cream). Tickets are $10, available in advance at www.thespotag.com

The Spot is located at 116 W. Branch St., in the village of Arroyo Grande (next to Doc Burnstein's Ice Cream).  Tickets are $10, available in advance at www.thespotag.com

For more info on this event or other Songwriters At Play showcases, go to :

The Clark Center for the Performing Arts presents the family-friendly celebration of the Holiday Season, Jingle Bell Rock on December 20 at 7:30pm. This fast-paced, fun-filled show features Holiday classics such as “Sleigh Ride,” “Here Comes Santa Claus” and “Rockin Around the Christmas Tree,” as well as a live band, talented singers, wacky holiday antics and of course everyone's favorite, Santa Claus! For tickets, call 805-489-9444 or visit www.clarkcenter.org.

Hope for the Holidays

November 1st – December 23rd

Starring: Pat Dixon, April Macie, Henry Phillips, Greg Warren and special guests: Donnie Baker, Kenny Tarmac and Floyd the Trucker

The BOB & TOM Show®,one of the longest-running and highest-rated radio programs in America, hosts many of the world's best comedians every weekday morning. These comedians are headliners and have TV credentials ranging from ComedyCentral® to Late Night® with David Letterman. The Busch Light BOB & TOM Comedy All-Stars Tour presents a rotating ensemble of these great headline comedians to stages all across America.

An Art Show and Reception Celebrating El Camino Art. Associations first 50 years.
The show will be up from November 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011 at the 
S.L.O. DOWN PUB 1200 East Grand Ave. Arroyo Grande (corner of Brisco & Grand).
See Terrific Art by our Members and Our Talentaed Scholarship Winners. Food provided by Elle's Cafe- Donations Accepted.
20% of the proceeds from art sales will be donated to the Scholarship Fund.
Come and ENJOY the art, wine & food.
Info:  SLO Down Pub (805) 481-4067
         El Camino Art    (805) 489-4035

Time: 8pm through midnight to 1 am on New Year's Eve ...

GULLIVER'S TRAVELS. new address..81 Higuera St. in San Luis Obispo. STAR AUTOMOTIVE 750 Francis...corner of Broad and Francis, San Luis Obispo CENTRAL COAST TAX & BOOKKEEPING Corner of Orchard and Division in Nipomo. THE HULA HUT in Avila Beach. SATURDAYS FARMERS MARKET in Arroyo Grande. SLO DOWN PUB ..on Grand and Brisco in Arroyo Grande.

The cost is $35 for a full size shingle, $20 for 1/2 shingle THEY MAKE EXCELLENT CHRISTMAS GIFTS Come to any of these venues and check them out.

El Camino Art Association is celebrating 50 years of art with an exhibition at SLO Down Pub, at  Brisco and Grand, in Arroyo Grande through November and December with more than 30 artists displaying their art work. Space for the show is being generously donated to El Camino Art Association members by Pub owners Julie and Mark London. There will be scholarship fundraisers, Hearts Desire reflected in oil and watercolor paintings. The Opening and Reception will be held on Friday, November 4 from 4 to 7 p.m., catered by Ellie's Cafe.

Funds from the show are used to provide scholarships for students at local high schools including Arroyo Grande, Lopez Continuation, Nipomo, and Lucia Mar Independent Study Program.  The 2011 scholarship recipients are seniors Erika Hughes, Sage Domme, and Dan Hertel from Arroyo Grande and Castin Headrick and Albert Medina from Nipomo. Other winners are Shy Gallegas from Arroyo Grande and Elvior Quintana from Nipomo and April Roger. Art from current and previous scholarship recipients will be shown at the reception only. El Camino Art Association members recently raised $2,500 with the assistance of Joan Goodall for scholarships through the sale of hand-painted shingles with the help of chairpeople Jennifer Stover, Matt Wiener and Jim Farmer and as well as many of the members of the association.

El Camino Art Association is an active group of artists in the Five Cities area of San Luis Obispo County, with membership from the Santa Barbara County area as well. El Camino Art Association displays and sells artwork at Avila Beach on Sundays during the summer and at Arroyo Grande Farmers Market on Saturdays.  For further information about the show and reception, you may contact Franczeska Bobi Angel at artwithangel@aol.com, or call her at  (805) 489-4035.  The Art Association website is www.elcaminoartassoc.com.

"Fascinating Gershwin!"

A Holiday Musical Celebration for George and Ira Gershwin!