Best of Santa Maria Valley 2010 by New Times Media Group, San Luis Obispo

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

2010 Best of

Santa Maria Valley 10 annual readers poll th

Wine, Dine, and Devour�� 6 Arts and Entertainment�� 22 Burnin’ Cash �� 32 Feelin’ Good �� 51 Community On My Mind �� 62

HB-SMSunBestOf-ThankYouAd(7-15-10):Layout 1

7/15/10

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

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2010

BUILDER of the

YEAR Since 2002, we’ve sought to bring innovative design and expert construction to each of our building projects. A balance of affordability and quality, value and luxury. Because of you, we’re now one of the county’s largest custom home builders. We are blessed to have honest, hard-working, talented subcontractors and vendors to partner with us. A superior staff. And clients who trust us to do, what we truly love. We thank you for honoring us

with this award two years in a row.

H H A L S E L L B U I L D E R S

MEMBER OF

halsellbuilders.com

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

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• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Full steam

ahead!

or our 10th annual Best Of publication—a celebration of what makes Santa Maria Valley and its neighbors tick—we decided to piece together something never seen before in this area. And we think we succeeded. From the gripping tale of timetravel told throughout these pages to the profiles of people, businesses, and nonprofits working to be the best they can, this issue is fit to burst its already-straining seams. Synchronize your whirring pocket watches and follow a cast of three through this year’s winners in no less than five categories, each holding a bounty of brief descriptions and backgrounds: Wine, Dine, and Devour [6] Arts and Entertainment [22] Burnin’ Cash [32] Feelin’ Good [51] Community On My Mind [62] We found our models in our own ranks this year. News Editor Amy Asman is the Aviatrix, Staff Writer Jeremy Thomas is the Villain, and New Times Receptionist Tanya Gallardo is the

Publishers Bob Rucker Alex Zuniga

General Manager

Executive Editor Ryan Miller

Advertising

Mechanic. Many people contributed to the work that went into crafting the set pieces, costumes, and more that made their photo shoots with Steve E. Miller possible, but of particular note is Editorial Designer Heather Walter, who crafted the tuppence-and-hand-crankpowered time-portal generator featured on page 32. Even more accolades are due the hard-working winners revealed in these pages. Without their ingenuity, tenaciousness, and creativity, this annual event wouldn’t be possible. Also, as always, we tip our top hats to the eager voters whose ballots inform us of our readers’ choices each year.

But enough idle chatter! Snap your goggles into place, make sure your leather apron and gloves are free of scorch marks, and peer into the glowing crucible of adventure that is this year’s Best Of. Ryan Miller executive editor

Topher Cajas Rhonda O’Dell Rene Rodriguez Tracey Joyner Scuri Georgia Shore Colleen Garcia Anica Julian Charles Neale Gerencser

Production

Christy Serpa Dora Mountain Brendan Rowe Jason Cope

Editorial Production

Heather Walter Jeff Cannon

Photographer Steve E. Miller

Writers

Amy Asman Shelly Cone Henry Houston Ryan Miller Brent Parker Joe Payne Sarah Schwab Catherine Shen

Roberta Slutske Helen Ann Thomas Jeremy Thomas Nicholas Walter Ariel Waterman

Proofreader Kathy Johnston

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

· Largest selection of Catholic books, gifts, and devotionals on the Central Coast · Beautiful Handmade Rosaries, Chaplets, and Jewelry · Sacred Art Gallery including Original, Central Coast Artists and Master Art Reproductions · Home of Our Lady of Lourdes Tea Room in 100 year old Victorian Home · Dedicated Book Loft and Children’s Book Room · Full service Catholic Book and Gift Shop · Full selection of First Holy Communion and Confirmation Gifts

The Perfect Gift Roman Catholic Gallery 119 North Miller Street, Santa Maria Store Hours: Tuesday ~ Saturday, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Tea Room: Tuesday ~ Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

(805)925-9282

6â&#x20AC;&#x2030;

â&#x20AC;˘ Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Wine, Dine, &

Devour

in which our intrepid

heroes

celebrate a recent s u c c e s s , oblivious to the dastardly villain

infiltrating their workshop to pilfer their famous

t i m e zeppelin

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

Saturday & Sundays! 2 for 1 Breakfast Specials with the purchase of 2 drinks

from 8:00 - 11:30 for a limited time only

THANK YOU! 1130 E. Clark Ave. #160, Orcutt, CA. (805) 938-7958

BEST TACO

Monday thru Fridays 9am-9pm. Saturday 8am-9am & Sunday 8am-8pm

ORCUTT & SANTA MARIA FOR VOTING US THE BEST.

BEST SALSA BEST AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD

Cheers & thanks for the warm welcome!

David & Becky Corey

Best Wine Tasting Room

145 S. Gray Street Ste. 103 • Old Orcutt • (805) 937-1600 OPEN WED 1-5, THURS-FRI 1-8, SAT-SUN 11-6

Best Red Wine

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

135 -A E. Clark Ave., Orcutt In a recent interview with the Sun, Kay Flagg—the Kay in Kay’s Country Kitchen—said it’s hard to pick which of her breakfast dishes is the most popular. “Our bacon is good and thick, and people love our omelets,” she said, especially the Too Much to Drink Last Night Omelet. “It’s pretty obvious when people are hung over on the weekends. They need something to soak all that alcohol up.” A creation of her daughter’s, the Too Much to Drink Last Night Omelet is stuffed with diced chicken-fried steak, bacon, and jack and cheddar cheeses, and then smothered with Kay’s special bacon and sausage gravy. “It’s nummy,” Kay exclaimed. Along with awesome omelets, Kay’s offers weekly specials, a delicious children’s menu, and even mimosas. “That’s something a lot of people don’t know about,” Kay said. Bottom’s up! —Amy Asman

runner up: IHOP

Yogurt

TNT’s Ice Cream, Yogurt, and Smoothies

runner up: Coldstone Creamery

Orcutt, Santa Maria, Nipomo

It’s a hot August afternoon, and suddenly you’re hit with a major sweet-tooth attack. According to Sun readers, there’s only one place to go to relieve a hankering for something sugary. Well, actually, there are three: With locations in Santa Maria, Orcutt, and Nipomo, TNT’s Ice Cream, Yogurt, and Smoothies is one of the Central Coast’s top purveyors of delectable desserts. What makes TNT’s so good? “We have a lot of really great products,” manager Barbara Tang explained. “People can get whatever excites them. There’s really something for everyone.” And when it comes to getting what they want, she said, TNT customers aren’t shy. “The combinations of ice cream and toppings, or yogurt and toppings, can get really strange,” she

Thank you for voting us “Best Strawberry Stand”

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Ice Cream/Frozen

said, adding that the craziest toppings often come from the kids. Think rainbow sherbet with cookie dough bits. —AA

Devo

Kay’s Orcutt Country Kitchen

 Best 

, ine &

 Best  Breakfast

 Best  Smoothie California Fresh

230 E. Betteravia, suite G, Santa Maria If the idea of having another cup of English breakfast tea is turning your stomach, it’s probably time to grab a smoothie from California Fresh. The shop focuses on fresh fruits and juices, and you’ll begin to wonder why you didn’t come here in the first place. “I want to stick to the actual flavors,” said Chad Jordan, owner of California Fresh. “A lot of places put in five different fruits and a lot of ice. I want to just focus on one fruit.” If you want mango, you’ll taste mango. If

Saturday Nights

strawberry’s on your list, you’ll get strawberry. There are no mixed signals at California Fresh. —Catherine Shen

runner up: Blenders in the Grass

 Best  Local

Red Wine

Addamo Winery and Vineyard

400 E. Clark Ave., Old Orcutt Addamo’s vineyards are located in the Santa Maria Valley appellation and were planted with specific attention given to varietals best suited to the terroir, climate, coastal influences, and orientation of the sun on the hillsides: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Grenache, and Syrah. They haven’t disap-

WINE continued on 11

Friday Nights

Pismo Bowl EST. 1939

At Cal Poly-University Union Hwy 101 & East Stowell Rd · Santa Maria www.darensberries.com

(805) 756-5523

www.mustanglanes.com

277 Pomeroy-Pismo Beach

(805) 773-2482

www.pismobeachbowl.com

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 â&#x20AC;˘

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

A Big

ThankYou

Join us for lunch or dinner daily!

Best Red Wine

from all of us at the Addamo Bistro & Tasting Room

Best White Wine Best Wine Tasting Room

937-6400 400 E. Clark, Old Orcutt | Open 11-9 Tues-Fri, 11-7 Sat-Sun

The Event Center at the Addamo Estates Custom Wedding Packages Indoor & Outdoor Venues Wedding Coordinator Available Catering & Corporate Events Best Place to Liz - 331-5001 have a Wedding Reception

Thanks for Voting Us One of Santa Maria’s Best Locally Owned Burger Joint!

185 S. Broadway Santa Maria

805-928-0811

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

WINE continued from 8 pointed. The grapes have produced outstanding reds that wow locals, like their 2006 Estate Syrah Santa Barbara County or 2006 Pinot Noir Reserve, both of which were Silver Medal Winners in the 2009 San Francisco International Wine Competition. Just as much of an honor are the accolades Addamo has received from wine enthusiasts, said owner David Addamo. “What a compliment,” he said. “We’re in some of the stiffest competition around, here on the Central Coast. We love our community for the support they’ve shown us.” —Shelly Cone

wine-related paraphernalia, cookbooks, or collectibles. Addamo’s wine tasting room has all of that, as well as a bistro menu that includes pasta, soups, salads, desserts, and main dishes. Enjoy an oriental chicken salad, fettuccini in red sauce, homemade lasagna, or a tri-tip sandwich along with Addamo’s quality wines. To satisfy your sweet tooth, dig into tiramisu, chocolate torte, or Addamo’s Damn Good Pie, among other confections. Enjoy live music with Wine Down Wednesdays every week in the tasting room. Owner Liz Addamo said recent construction and improvements to Old Town Orcutt and the street in front of the tasting room gave them a bit of a scare. “We thought, ‘Oh no, there’s a recession going on and it’s the busiest time of year and now they are doing construction,’” she said, “but the community still came out. They still supported us.” That’s not surprising; Addamo is more than just a tasting room for Sun readers, it’s a destination. —SC

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Devo

runner up:

CORE

 Best  Local

White Wine

Addamo Winery and Vineyard

400 E. Clark Ave., Old Orcutt

runner up:

Whether you lean toward the red or the white wine, you can’t go wrong with Addamo’s offerings; Santa Maria Sun readers voted Addamo Winery and Vineyard as having the best white wine around. Addamo uses sustainable farming methods and hand harvests and sorts its fruit. The winery uses the same care with its fruit in creating its fine wines. Try the 2007 Addamo Estate White Riesling, with its crisp acidity and slight sweetness paired with spicy Thai food or all alone as an after-dinner treat. Or for a light, crisp summer wine, sip the 2006 Giovanni Pinot Grigio with your salmon and salad. —SC

3301 Terminal Drive, Santa Maria When Santa Maria Sun staffers are ready to kick back and relax after a hectic deadline, we head over to Pepper Garcia’s at the Santa Maria airport. Granted, Pepper’s is pretty much the only place within walking distance of the Sun office where we can grab grub and drinks, but we’re not complaining. Bartender Armando Cervantes makes a mean margarita—and the free enchiladas, chips, and salsa at Happy Hour always manage to satisfy even the most ravenous of our writers. While doing some “research” for this year’s Best Of, we asked Cervantes what makes his margaritas so good. “We make our mix right here,” he said as he added a little orange liqueur to our drinks. He wouldn’t go into more detail on record, but he did say it’s important not to put too much sugar in the mix like a lot of store brands do. (Editor’s note: We promise we didn’t stuff the ballot.) —AA

runner up:

Applebee’s

Java Moto

142 Town Center East, Santa Maria When Santa Marians need a great cup of coffee, they head for Java Moto. In its new location at Santa Maria Town Center— been there since January—Java Moto has served up blended drinks, boba, espresso, smoothies, and, yes, fresh-brewed ground coffee. Java Moto is also a treat for the eyes: Work by local artists hangs throughout the shop and changes monthly. The most popular drinks, said owner Mellissa Thorsen, are their caramel frappuccinos (ask for the blended caramel frappe to sound like a pro) and their lattes. But it’s not just the coffee that keeps people coming back. “It’s the quality and customer service, and the quantity of food we serve,” Thorsen said. “You get above and beyond what you pay for.” —Nicholas Walter

runner up:

Coffee and Company

WINE continued on 12 COR BLIMEY!

 Best  Wine

Tasting Room

Addamo Winery and Vineyard

Most tasting rooms offer more than just wine, whether it’s gourmet edibles,

Pepper Garcia’s

 Best  Locally Owned Coffee Shop

A lfie ’s f ish A nd c hips , voted B est l ompoc r estAur A nt, Br ings A tAste of e nglA nd to the c entr A l c oAst. g od sAv e the queen—A nd sAv e m e som e of th At cr ispy goodn ess .

runner up: Rancho Sisquoc

400 E. Clark Ave., Old Orcutt

CORE

 Best  Margarita

photo By steve e. miller

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Consistency is what makes Gina’s tops. The fresh-baked goods are always moist and yummy, and customer service is consistently terrific. Owner Gina Martin’s dad, Lloyd Jones, is the baker, and mom Barbara and daughter Brooke work the counter with a phenomenal staff who knows customers’ favorites. Mornings, Gina’s serves up good coffee, Danish, muffins, and cinnamon rolls at their new location in the Santa Maria mall (on the lower level near Macy’s). Most requested is white cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, selected daily by Gina at a local stand. Her gourmet cookies must have wings because they fly out of the case, and the bread speaks for itself as it calls out your name! —Ariel Waterman

runner up: Panera Bread

Chances are, if you haven’t visited Orcutt Burger yet, you probably don’t get out of the house very often. And if there’s one reason why the restaurant has become such a community staple, according to owner Spiro Zafiris, it’s freshness. “Everything’s prepared when they order it, and we have that family atmosphere,” he said. “We really don’t have too many mom-and-pop type burger places around here. The difference is the chain is just a mass-produced food where it’s just given out. There’s no heart in it.” Zafiris bought the Orcutt location from his parents, and after its 12 years in town, most locals have the menu memorized. Of course, their charbroiled hamburgers remain the most popular fare, followed closely by pastrami and steak sandwiches. More recently, the restaurant added a full breakfast menu, featuring monster-size breakfast burritos, and began offering turkey burgers for the

ur Wi

1099 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt

307 Town Center East, Santa Maria

Orcutt Burger

runner up: Santa Maria BurgerS

toppings include chorizo pork and zucchini. Dine in or take-out, and don’t miss the lunch specials. —AW

ne, D

runner up: Klondike

Devo

Gina’s Piece of Cake

health-conscious. —Jeremy Thomas

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 Best  Bakery

 Best  Locally Owned Burger Joint

WINE continued from 11

 Best  Pizza

 Best  Steak

Straw Hat Pizza

1822 North Broadway, Santa Maria

The Hitching Post

3325 Point Sal Road, Casmalia

The hat has been serving some serious pie since 1967, but that’s not all. Owners Randy and Mary Weise have taken Straw Hat into the 21st century with kids’ games, super appetizers, a salad bar, marinara and chicken Alfredo pastas, and scrumptious sandwiches like pastrami, meatball, and a hot hat stuffed with ham and three cheeses. Employee Aaron Galincial gave me the low down, saying the most popular pizza is the Meat-E-Or, loaded with ham, salami, pepperoni, sausage, ground beef, and linguica! His go-to slice is the healthier chicken bacon ranch pizza with grilled chicken, smoky bacon, red onions, tomatoes, and creamy ranch sauce. Unique

In an alternate version of Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth, the readers find the professor and the rest of the party looking for the best place to grill the world’s greatest steak. Sadly, the publishing company didn’t think too highly of the story, and the meat-hunt was omitted. If Professor Von Hardwigg knew of Casmalia, however, he would have found the best steak around at the Hitching Post. Sadly,

WINE continued on 14

Thank You for voting us

Best Ice Cream and Yogurt year after year!

IN ORCUTT

The award winning place with a menu for everyone’s taste

FREE

Enjoy a Topping with our appreciation!

THANK YOU SANTA MARIA VALLEY

FOR VOTING US ONE OF

THE BEST Home of the HUGE portions and GREAT service!! Your host: Brian Kea

156 S. Broadway Old Orcutt, Ca. 93455 (805) 937-1871 OPEN 7 days a week. 6am – 9pm.

Best Orcutt Restaurant

One coupon per customer, good with the purchase of any size Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt.

Offer expires Sept. 30, 2010

Three convenient locations:

1102 E. Clark Ave. Orcutt 560 E. Betteravia Rd. Santa Maria 110 S. Mary St. Nipomo

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

Bes t Bes t of

Santa Maria Valley

hether it’s the perfect breakfast or lunch you seek, you’re sure to find it at Kay’s Orcutt Country Kitchen. Serving down-home country cuisine with a homelike atmosphere and smiles as soon as you walk in the door.

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Club

This is a triple-decker sandwich on grilled sourdough, with a charbroiled ground sirloin burger, cheddar cheese, thick-sliced bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomatoes & our home-made BBQ sauce. Served with your choice of lunch side.

Strawberry-Apple Salmon Spinach Salad We start off with a charbroiled wild Salmon and top it on a plate of Spinach, toasted almonds, sliced strawberries and apples, and lastly serve it with our champagne dressing.

“Too Much To Drink Last Night” Omelette This scrumptious masterpiece can cure any hangover! Diced chicken fried steak and bacon topped with jack and cheddar cheese and smothered with our bacon and sausage gravy. Served with home fries, hash browns or fruit. Also with your choice of toast, homemade biscuit or muffin.

135 A East Clark Avenue, Orcutt 805-934-4429

www.kaysorcuttcountrykitchen.com

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 be tough and thick, which makes it hard to chew. So that’s the difference; it’s much easier to eat.” Staying true to the local flavor, they also have the ubiquitous salsa and keep it affordable at $4 a sandwich. “We want to take the tri-tip to the masses,” Jordan said. “To show the world what Santa Maria is all about.” —CS

WINE continued from 12 not everyone lives close enough to the Hitching Post to enjoy its succulent beef. But that’s a problem the owners must have noticed, because they developed a solution: The Hitching Post can deliver its legendary steaks near and far in a frozen state. Now that’s progress. —Henry Houston

runner up:

Jocko’s

Shaw’s Steakhouse

 Best  Tri-Tip

 Best  Salsa

California Fresh

Orcutt, Lompoc, Buellton

Simple bread and butter may be the Victorian way, but that’s not how Santa Marians do it. “Our tri-tip is Santa Maria barbecue style and actually cut into deli slices,” said California Fresh owner Chad Jordan. “Regular tri-tip can

Think twice if you’re about to dip your week-old chip into that canned month-old red paste. Transport yourself over to Burrito Loco, where chipeating enthusiasts go loco for the freshly made salsa. “I realized people around this area don’t really like spicy food,” owner Gustavo Aguilar said, “so

Sandwiches

Burrito Loco

230 E. Betteravia, suite G, Santa Maria

You

JUSTIFY THE BEANS

don ’ t just wa nt coffee , You need it,

a nd

java moto ca n supplY it a nd then s top bY this b est c offee s hop w in ner for a cup. o r two . o r thr ee .

some .

I add more garlic and fewer chilis.” That’s a taste-bud-approved approach. “We make two 45-gallon cans of chips, and serve roughly 20 gallons of salsa a day. It’s pretty much gone almost every night.” The best part? You can take it home in conveniently packaged containers. So buy one. Or five. —CS

runner up:

Cielito Lindo

 Best  Taco Cielito Lindo Mexican Grill

1130 E. Clark, Orcutt You can get a taco practically anywhere these days, but when a true testament to the art of the taco is required, locals head for Cielito Lindo Mexican Grill. Starting with fresh tortillas— fried up hot and fluffy or left warm and soft—they then cake on a layer of savory beans, followed by your choice of succulent meats, then topped with crispy lettuce and some delicious cheese. But wait. You’re not done, because you still have Cielito Lindo’s award-winning salsa bar to visit so you can acquire all the necessary accoutrements to make your taco a perfect experience. And don’t forget about the restaurant’s famous Taco Tuesdays: all-you-can eat tacos all day long, so you can sample all the combinations you can fancy. —Joe Payne

runner up: Burrito Loco

 Best  Deli

Sandwiches

California Fresh

230 E. Betteravia, suite G, Santa Maria

photo bY steve e. miller

Forget about yesterday’s footlongs or pre-packaged nonsense; there’s a reason Sun readers chose California Fresh for their sandwich cravings: “We slice the meat, cheese, and produce every morning of every day,” said owner Chad Jordan. “We get our veggies and fruits from farmers in the morning, so it’s the freshest you can get.” They also offer sandwiches in rolls, bagels, or

wraps. “We’re not married to the idea a sandwich has to be on a huge packaged roll. People want variety and quality, so we give it to them. It matters that our food doesn’t just sit in a fridge.” —CS

runner up:

Subway

 Best  Santa Maria Restaurant

Shaw’s Steakhouse 714 S. Broadway, Santa Maria

Locals and visitors can all agree on at least one thing: The true taste of Santa Maria is at Shaw’s Steakhouse. “Shaw’s has been open since 1953,” said General Manager Eric Sties. “Everything is as fresh as possible.” By “everything,” Sties means the full steak menu, including ribeyes, filets, New York, and top sirloin, the stunning seafood menu, garden fresh salads, Santa Maria-style barbecue, and even more quality home-cooked meals, all prepared in Shaw’s windowed kitchen. Combine such a menu with fresh ingredients and a top-notch wait staff, and you get the Best Santa Maria Restaurant. —JP

runner up (tie): Olive Garden runner up (tie): Cool Hand Luke’s

 Best  Orcutt

Restaurant

Trattoria Uliveto

285 S. Broadway, Old Orcutt It’s Sunday night at 6:30 at Trattoria Uliveto. I’m planted at the back bar, agog at Arturo as he deftly rolls and twirls pizza dough, then assembles prosciutto and cheese crostini, and tosses a giant salad. The wood-burning oven emits a more than rosy glow. The musical trio Beaujolais is on stage. In the kitchen, the ultra-social Chef Alphonso Corsi does a cha-cha-cha step to the music. My heart beats to the rhythm of Jimmy Enos’ flying fingers on the keyboard as I savor roasted eggplant wrapped around heavenly angel hair pasta doused with

WINE continued on 15

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

runner up:

runner up: Texas Cattle Company Jack’s

 Best  Lompoc

 Best  Guadalupe

Alfie’s Fish and Chips

Far Western Tavern

Restaurant 1036 North H St., Lompoc

899 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe

Michael Cordsen is the new general manager at the Far Western. “I’m getting to know all of our wonderful guests,” he said. “I love it. It’s outstanding—the history of the building, the business. I’m absolutely thrilled to be a part of it.” What’s his favorite meal at the restaurant? “Hands down, the bull’seye steak. It’s a boneless ribeye, grilled over red oak, seasoned Santa Maria style. It’s the most flavorful, juicy steak you’ll ever eat. I normally like fillet mignon ... normally ribeye is kind of a little chewy, but this ribeye is so tender.” —Brent Parker

runner up:

 Best  Overall

Restaurant

Jocko’s Steakhouse

The Hitching Post

125 N. Thompson Ave., Nipomo

3325 Point Sal Road, Casmalia

Do you like mouth-watering, tender, high-quality steak? You bite into it and think, “Wow, this is the best steak I ever tasted!” You can get steak like that right in Nipomo, in a very casual, family-style atmosphere. You can even watch the steaks being grilled outside. Bring your appetite, because the portions are very large. There’s also an abundance of cuts: Spencer steak, New York steak, filet mignon ... you get the picture—and you’re going to have to choose. Don’t worry, though. It’s all good! (By the way, there’s a Little Jocko’s, too, on South Frontage Road.) —Roberta Slutske

Terri Stricklan sees a lot of happy diners at the Hitching Post. Who wouldn’t enjoy the large dishes, steaks from happy cows in the Midwest, and a staff that treats customers like family? “When someone leaves unhappy, it’s an unusual occurrence,” she said. “If there is an unhappy customer, then we make sure we make it right before they leave.” Don’t quite feel happy enough yet? The Hitching Post boasts, according to the Los Angeles Times, the best French fries in Southern California. Chew on that. —HH

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Owner Michael Sewall, his lovely wife, Nellie, and their three children have been serving super fish and chips in Lompoc since 2000. The restaurant has been in this spot since 1969. Sewall’s is the second family to own it. “I am half-English and look like the guy on the sign with the big ears and nose!” he proudly claimed, although he has a guilty secret: “I’ve never been to England,” he sighed. Flaming London! “We use Alaskan cod and fry in pure peanut oil. It’s healthier, having no trans fats or cholesterol,” he said. Alfie’s also offers shrimp, scallops, chicken

Restaurant

 Best  Nipomo

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cheese and tomato sauce. Honestly, does it get any better than this? —Helen Ann Thomas

strips, clam chowder, clam strips, and calamari, plus there’s a mini-British market with English candies and sauces. —AW

Devo

WINE continued from 14

runner up: Jocko’s runner up: Nardo’s Rancho Nipomo Deli WINE continued on 16

1822 N Broadway Santa Maria

805 347-1942

WWW.STRAWHATPIZZA.COM

Thank You for voting us Best Pizza!

Customer Appreciation Coupon

½ Off Any Size Pizza of your choice

*Limit 2 pizzas per coupon/visit. Not valid with any other discounts or offers. Expires: 9/30/10 Straw Hat Pizza

Proudly Serving Santa Maria Since 1967

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

 Best  Meal

 Best  Meal

runner up (tie): Olive Garden

Where Someone Else Pays

 Best  Restaurant

California Fresh

The Hitching Post

for Letting Kids Be Kids

WINE continued from 15

for Your Money

runner up: Hometown Buffet

Even though the food at the Hitching Post is nearly life changing, the price isn’t the cheapest around. That’s why it’s always smart to think of an occasion to make someone else pay: graduation, mowing the lawn, a long trip in a hot-air balloon, or trotting about in the fourth dimension. The more creative the idea, the more likely that, after a matter of time, you’ll be staring at a juicy steak at the Hitching Post. —HH

3325 Point Sal Road, Casmalia Weddings can be a pain to plan. Anyone exhausted from the search for the perfect place to tie the knot need look no further than the Hitching Post. Just witness the name, which ensures the knot will stay tied. “The Hitching Post has a strong significance for a lot of people,” manager Terri Stricklan said. That may be why, a few times a year, a man gets down on his knee to propose to his lover—or maybe he’s proposing to the steak, but his lover gets confused. —HH

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Digging into your piggy bank to pay for lunch? Be assured you’ll still have change left over if you decide on California Fresh. “If you get a smoothie from a shop at $5, and a sandwich at a separate shop for $5, adding that up, it’s more than what we offer packaging both together,” said Chad Jordan, owner of California Fresh. A full meal for less than $7 is hard to beat, and if you’re on Facebook or Twitter, the deal just gets better. “We text coupons every morning to 1,000 subscribers,” Jordan said. “We don’t have to campaign—people come by hearing about us.” —CS

3325 Point Sal Road, Casmalia

Devo

230 E. Betteravia, suite G, Santa Maria

to Take Your Honey

runner up: Chef Rick’s Ultimately Fine runner up (tie): TRATTORIAUliveto Foods

 Best  Restaurant Chuck E. Cheese’s 2254 S. Bradley, Santa Maria

Do your kids like the idea of jumping into a pool filled with colorful balls, whacking a mole or two, and eating endless amounts of pizza? They’ll love you for eons if Chuck E. Cheese’s is your next party destination. “Very simply, our mission is to bring families together in a wholesome environment for fun, games, and food,” said Brenda Holloway, in public relations for Chuck E. Cheese’s. “We offer items to adults and kids. Pepperoni pizza is the most popular food item, and we also feature a garden fresh salad bar.” From skee-balls to

WINE continued on 17

Best Hispanic Market

1125 W. Main St. Santa Maria 349-1230

Gracias por hacernos #1 de nuevo! Thank You for voting us the Best again!

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

WINE continued from 16 skytubes, what’s a better way to get the kids out of the house? —CS

runner up: McDonald’s

Manager Terri Stricklan said. “People always remember and want to come back.” —HH

runner up: Santa Maria Inn Garden ROOM

 Best   Best  Restaurant Restaurant For Schmoozing Clients

For Veg-Heads

The Hitching Post

2407 S. Broadway, Santa Maria

3325 Point Sal Road, Casmalia If an intrepid time traveler knew about the Hitching Post, she would unveil the time machine to investors there. Of course, that wouldn’t have been the only business conducted—I’m sure she would have also gone back in time, a move that would later be revealed as an attempt to eat all the steaks in the kitchen. As crazy as it sounds, it wouldn’t be any surprise to the Hitching Post staff. They see business professionals at the restaurant every night. “[The Hitching Post] is a destination restaurant,”

The Natural Café

Sometimes, it ain’t easy being a herbivore—but vegetarians and vegans have a place to call home at The Natural Café. Boasting veggie burgers, burritos, tofu dogs, and the popular Old Town Salad, the café caters to the alternative eater, even offering a purely vegan menu. “We’re really understanding, and we try to help them get a meal that tastes good and also fits their needs,” said manager Ashton Webster. “We’re really helpful to people who really can’t find anywhere else that knows what they

NOW OPEN IN OUR NEW LOC ATION

Thank You

runner up: California Fresh

 Best  New

Peter Han didn’t stop there. He included terrific steak, chicken, tempura, and 40 sushi rolls. Kassie’s favorite is the California tempura roll, filled with crab, cucumbers, rice, and avocado, dipped in tempura and deep fried. Most popular is the Washington roll, a California roll with fresh salmon on the outside. Think you’re gutsy enough, Captain Nemo? Try the What the Heck roll crammed with spicy crab meat, cukes, and shrimp with spicy tuna, avocado, and jalapenos on the outside. Chill down with saki, local wines, or imported, domestic, and draft beer. That’ll steam your punk! —AW

runner up: Zoe’s Hawaiian BBQ

Restaurant (2009)

 Best  Caterer

Crab Cove

841 S. Broadway, Santa Maria Astute and perky server Kassie Ruprecht apprised me of a menu of specialties from 20,000 leagues under the sea: clusters and legs of snow and king crab, shrimp, crawfish, and lobster. But owner

Testa Catering

2385 A St., Santa Maria Martin and Debi Testa run the largest catering business in Northern Santa

WINE continued on 18

Authentic

Hawaiian Food

Homemade, hand breaded, marinated and processed here from the heart. No MSG.

Mahalo from Our

to all our loyal customers that voted us the

Ohana (family) to Yours!

Best Coffee Sho�. • Blended Mochas • Smoothies • Sandwiches • Wraps & Salads • Bagels • Muffins • Croissants

like.” All menu items—including soups, dressings, and cornbread— are made fresh, and new produce is brought in every day. Meatheads enjoy the café’s unique dishes, too, delighting in the popular Gobbler Burger, Mt. Fuji Stir Fry, and turkey sandwiches. Plus, each week brings “Bounce Back Mondays,” where customers coming in after 4:30 p.m. receive buy one, get one free coupons for entrees. —JT

Friday Nights: Hawaiian Music and Hula Dancers

FREE WI-FI Come In

Hang O & ut

We Cater To fit your needs and budget.

All cuisines: Italian, Oriental, Filipino, Mexican, BBQ and more. Hawaiian entertainment packages also available.

& Catering 142 Town Center East (next to Bath & Body Works)

614-1000 fax orders 614-1010

Mon.-Fri. 7am-7pm Sat. 9am-7pm Sun. 10am-6pm

Open Mon-Thurs 10am-8pm · Fri 10am-9pm · Sat 11am-7:30pm · Closed Sunday

2880 Santa Maria Way #A-2, Santa Maria · 357-7635

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

WINE continued from 17 Barbara County. Boasting more than 30 years’ experience, they’re renowned for everything from Santa Maria-style barbecue to prime rib and lobster. Not only is their food outstanding, but their service is professional. They also specialize in bar catering, offering imported and domestic beer, local wines, champagne, and spirits, all poured by their competent wait staff and mixologists. No wonder they’ve won this award four years in a row! But that’s not all! The Testas have been involved in numerous local fundraisers for the Boys & Girls Club, Special Olympics, YMCA, and the Abel Maldonado Youth Center. They are truly the Masters of the World of catering! —AW

Santa Maria Valley Bar

Tap Room at the Santa Maria Inn

801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria An English bar in Santa Maria? That should be enough reason for you to visit the Tap Room for a taste of freshly made drinks or just to mingle with olde friends. “It’s the spot to go to during Friday and Saturday nights,” said hotel manager assistant Alicia Zuniga. “Our bartenders are awesome, they’re friendly, and they love getting people to come to the bars just to hang out to the point where people all know each other.” The welcoming and nostalgic atmosphere the bar emanates draws people back every weekend. “It’s like a big high school reunion,” Zuniga said. “It’s a good time.” —CS

ur Wi

, ine &

ne, D

Devo

runner up: California Fresh

 Best 

Cowboy Bar Cool Hand Luke’s

1321 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria This Western-themed saloon features a full, well-stocked bar, which includes fine wine, Stagecoach Martinis, ice cold beer, and much more. A pleasant crowd is usually gathered here, so mosey on in and join the fun at “The Coolest Joint in Town.” Ask about the drink specials, because there are different ones each day. Manager Brian Patterson says, “The most popular drink is ‘The Duke,’ a 22-oz. glass similar to the Long Island iced tea, but instead of soda, we just add Blue Caracao.” Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. There’s also a late-night happy hour every night from 9 p.m. to close. —RS

runner up: Elmer’s

 Best  Sports Bar

 Best 

runner up:

t his

Stinky’s Grill

2430 S. Broadway, Santa Maria It’s Sunday night; your cable is out, there are no more snacks, and your buddy forgot to bring the brews. The only way to catch the game the right way is to head to Stinky’s. Providing Santa Maria with quality drinks and American-style cuisine (the beer-battered French fries are incredible), Stinky’s has always catered to the sports fan in all of us. Since it touts 18 television sets with as many as—you guessed it—18 games on at once, you’re sure to catch your game while enjoying a refreshing drink at the bar or a delicious culinary creation. —JP

runner up:

Elmer’s

EAT OUT

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the fact

th at you ca n di v e into your sa ndw ich

b r icks , b est o utdoor d ining .

under a clea r blue sk y at voted

Applebee’s

 Best  Happy Hour

bands, and every other Sunday is karaoke night. Also, guests enjoy a black light party “every full moon” with local DJ Butter. “We’re just trying to make it a fun place to be,” said General Manager John McAllister. Of course, the main reason people come to happy hour is ... well, the alcohol. McAllister recommends the Perfect Margarita and said “we also do a lot of beer specials: $2 beer bottle nights, $2 pint nights.” —BP

runner up: Tap Room at the Santa Maria Inn

 Best  Health Food /Vitamin Store

Lassen’s Natural Foods and Vitamins 1790 S. Broadway, Santa Maria

You can’t save the world if you can’t stay healthy, as regular customers of Lassen’s Natural Foods and Vitamins know well. “They want to know no 1415 S. Bradley, matter what they pick up off the shelf, Santa Maria it’s not a question,” said store manThere are two happy hours at Apple- ager Mike Johnson. “It’s one, legit, bee’s, and both last more than and two, it’s what they need.” With an hour: 3 to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. its locally grown, 100-percent organic to close. Sometimes the late- produce, Lassen’s can boast a farmers night happy hour features live market experience, as well as a fullentertainment, including local service deli. Satisfying the raw and vegan lifestyle, it’s also one of few places in the entire state where you can find Photo by steve e. miller raw milk. However, coupled with a knowledgeable staff and an on-site certified nutritionist, Lassen’s huge selection of high-end vitamins sets it apart from the rest. On the off chance a certain supplement doesn’t do the trick, Lassen’s offers a money-back guarantee. Besides its usual treasure trove of free samples, Lassen’s practically gives the store away three times a year: Earth Day, its July anniversary, and at a Holiday Fair in December. —JP

Applebee’s

runner up: GNC WINE continued on

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

THANK YOU FOR VOTING

NORTH CHINA

BEST Chinese t n a r u a t s e R AS THE

Year After Year!

THANKS FOR VOTING US #1

Private Parties & Catering Available

899 Guadalupe St. Guadalupe

Tuesday – Thursday 11am - Close Friday & Saturday 11am - Close · Sunday 9am - Close

(805) 925-3705

113 N. BROADWAY SANTA MARIA Open Tues-Sun 11am-2pm Lunch · 5-9pm Dinner

Reservations Recommended: 343-2211

www.farwesterntavern.com

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Be a Part of the “BEST” Museum in Santa Maria Have the opportunity to enhance the lives & learning of our children by serving on our Board of Directors

We’re looking for a few good people with: Passion for children’s learning and desire to promote and support healthy families Enthusiasm for volunteerism and community service Willingness to advocate for families and children Willingness to be an ambassador & spokesperson for the museum

Contact Kelly White O’Neill Kelly@smdiscoverymuseum.org

Best Museum/ Learning Center

Best Place to take the kids on Saturday

Best Non-Profit

705 S. McClelland 928-8414

www.smvdiscoverymuseum.org

Testa’s Bistro - Home of Testa Catering

113 S. College Dr. (behind Dino’s Deli) 349-1122

— Enjoy Lunch at Testa’s Bistro, M-F 11a-2p — Private Parties - Wine Maker Dinners — Full Service Food & Bar Catering Join us 1st & 3rd Fridays 6-11pm for Tapas, Martinis, Full Bar & Live Music Voted Best in Santa Maria Valley www.testacatering.com testacatering@verizon.net

A Unique Dining Experience Catering the Central Coast W i n n e r o f B e s t C a t e r i n g 3 Ye a r s i n a R o w 2 3 8 5 A S t . S A N TA M A R I A , C A . 9 3 4 5 5

Martin & Debi Testa (805)739 - 0809

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

Albertsons

2320 S. Broadway, Santa Maria 1120 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt

runner up: Fresh and Easy

 Best  Strawberry Stand

DB Specialty Farms/ Darensberries.com

runner up: Ming Dynasty

Market

 Best  Japanese

Carniceria El Toro 1125 W. Main, Santa Maria

Heaping mountains of juicy, thincut carne asada. Steaming troughs of carnitas. Shredded chicken swimming in its own juices. Now that you’re paying attention, Carniceria El Toro is waiting for you with its fresh meats, cheeses, salsas, chips, beans and rice, and more. If the line at El Toro is long, don’t despair, because it moves fast, and you may get a smile and a handshake from owner and manager Alfred Bonilla, who believes the carniceria’s success is due to the attitude of its employees. “When you treat your workers with absolute respect, then they will treat the customers with absolute respect,” he said. “We really try and make it a place where someone has an experience.” —JP

runner up:

Super Carniceria La Chiquita

 Best  Chinese Food North China

113 N. Broadway, Santa Maria

Imagine sitting out in the sun on a warm day. You reach out your hand, and your fingers curl around a large, juicy strawberry. You pop it in your mouth and sigh in contentment as its delicious taste overwhelms your senses. But alas, you’re reading the Sun, not sitting and enjoying a fresh strawberry. But that can easily be fixed! Just head to Darensberries.com strawberry stand. Readers say the stand, run by DB Specialty Farms, has the biggest, juiciest, reddest strawberries in all of Santa Maria. The Darensberries stand sells a special type of strawberry, known as albion, which customers love. Don’t despair if you don’t like fruit—many people go to the stand to buy strawberries for smoothies. —Sarah Schwab

Owner Michael Sun’s father, David, opened North China in 1982, and it keeps going strong at the same location. The menu is still comprised of Pop’s original recipes from Sandaong in Northern China. On the Chinese calendar, Michael Sun is a sheep—charming and creative. He’s at North China from open to close, showering charm on his customers while serving up a creative fusion of Szechuan and Mandarin cuisine. “Many customers are like family and we know them by name,” he said. Popular dishes include North China shrimp in red pepper and garlic sauce; Sizzling Happy Family (scallops, shrimp, and veggies in ginger sauce), and Sun’s favorite: Princess Chicken tossed with dried chili

Lil Pete’s

Yanagi Sushi and Grill 2431 S. Broadway, Santa Maria

When your palate starts craving some Eastern cuisine, Yanagi Sushi and Grill dominates with its sleek and stylish setting paired with its visually stunning and scrumptiously satisfying food. Yanagi’s sushi is prepared sashimi style or in the gourmet California style. Spicy tuna dances with tempura shrimp, while real crab meat does the tango with fresh eel, and streamers of plum sauce and spicy mayonnaise gracefully complete the party. But, as anyone who has been to Yanagi can tell you, the true spectacle is the Teppan grill: a flat, heated metal surface surrounded by guest seats. The chefs at Yanagi perform a spectacular show while they cook. It takes years of training, but it’s worth it—you may see an egg spinning on the tip of a spatula before being cracked in mid air, flying pieces of shrimp, or even the famous fire-spouting onion volcano! —JP

ne, D

off the Highway 101 Stowell exit, Santa Maria

runner up:

Food

, ine &

I love shopping at Albertsons for three reasons: convenience, customer service, and variety. Dream Eaters will never starve here. Grab a salad or sandwich, including tri-tip, fresh fruit, and a beverage at Starbucks. Or get great Chinese at Mr. Fong’s. The bakery offers fresh-baked items, including terrific challah for Sabbath Seders and … mmmm … doughnuts. Carnivores will revel in fresh cuts of meat, fish, and poultry. The deli has yummy cold cuts, cheeses, and go-withs; the produce section is terrific, with in-season offerings; and you can’t beat their international selection. My British husband adores the Wine Gums and McVities biscuits. The employees are helpful, friendly, and go out of their way to make sure you get what you came for, and that’s tops in our book! —AW

 Best  Hispanic

ur Wi

 Best  Grocery Store

peppers and scallions in spicy Szechuan sauce. We say yes, your highness! —AW

Devo

WINE continued from 18

runner up:

 Best  Authentic Mexican Food

Casa Mañana

1640 S. Broadway, Santa Maria Santa Maria is definitely known for its fine Mexican cuisine, but one name beats out the rest for the title of Best Authentic Mexican Food. Sun readers say that name is Casa Mañana. Founded by Robert and Lydia Ontiveros in 1964, Casa Mañana has been whipping up homemade Mexican food ever since. Manager Anthony Ontiveros (Robert and Lydia’s son) started as a busboy when he was 15 years old, and he credits the restaurant’s success to consistency. “We don’t change the recipe. We may add new entrees, but the recipes stay the same,” he said, “and plus, it’s the same cooks making these dishes all these years.” Their employees, he explained, stay with the restaurant for years, and they need the help making all their own tamales, menudo, rellenos, chips, spices, and their hot sauce. “And we don’t use anything canned,” Ontiveros added. “It’s always fresh.” —JP

runner up:

Cielito Lindo

 Best  Outdoor Dining

Bricks

Ichiban 112 W. Main, Santa Maria

Nothing is more relaxing than sitting under the sun and listening to the songs of birds as you enjoy a meal with a friend. But not all restaurants are able to extend the hospitable atmosphere of the interior to the exterior. Bricks Restaurant has excelled at producing a comfortable atmosphere that keeps bringing customers back. The combination of a comfortable patio, good food, and friendly service makes Bricks’ outdoor dining an enjoyable experience. Brick’s patio is open to diners every afternoon—provided it’s not raining. So the next time you meet a friend for lunch, don’t stay inside! Head over to Bricks and soak up some sun. —SS

runner up: Kay’s Orcutt Country Kitchen

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

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DOUGLASS 4 PIECE Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 • SECTIONAL

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• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 Mixing great music and signature martinis, this pub is a must go. —CS

 Best  Live Music Venue

runner up: Chumash Casino

Olde English Tap Room at the Santa Maria Inn

 Best  Local

801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria

1steppinout.com

EN T

Some bands struggle for many years before they get any recognition, but that’s not the case with Steppin’ Out. Founded less than a year ago, Steppin’ Out quickly gained popularity and now performs at the Santa Maria Inn once a month. When asked what music genre his band primarily plays, lead singer Michael Arriola said they fit into the R&B dance genre, presenting a combination of “old school, Latin, and funk.” When not playing at the Inn, they

RTS

EN T

Steppin’ Out

Music, no matter what era you live in, is a perpetual form of entertainment. The Tap Room, also known as The Ol’ English Pub, is the perfect place to be if you’re feeling musically inclined. “We’re constantly experimenting with a music format that complements the venue,” said General Manager John Reinacher. “We’ve recently formed an alliance with Steppin’ Out, and they’re considered to be our house band by many of our fans. They’re without a doubt the hottest band in the Valley, offering a variety of R&B, Latin music, and good ol’ rock ’n’ roll.”

Band or Musicians

ER TAI N

perform at weddings and parties, and will be giving audiences at Santa Maria’s Concerts in the Park series a reason to dance. —SS

selection of pianos, guitars, drums, ukuleles, and practically any type of instrument you can think of. So if one night you dream of smashing guitars with the Who, consider Owens when you open your eyes in the morning. —SS

runner up (tie): Soulamente runner up (tie): runner up (tie): Jensen Guitar Klockwyze and Music Co. runner up (tie):  Best  Coelho Academy Place to Buy of Music

Musical

Instruments

 Best 

Owens Music Co.

Place to Go on a

You’re on a stage, the spotlight shining on you. You’re finishing a tricky jazz number on the piano that would put Count Basie to shame. As the audience jumps to their feet and applauds, you wake up on the couch and stare at the ancient piano you bought at a garage sale. If you want to play like a master, you need the piano of a master. And the best place to get one is Owens, which offers a large

Edwards Santa Maria 10

201 E. Main, Santa Maria

First Date

1521 S. Bradley, Santa Maria Where else would you go on a first date in Santa Maria? Edwards Cinemas has walked away with this award year after year after year. And for good reason. What could be more romantic

ARTS continued on 25

30 YEARS OF FLORAL

All of us at Andersen Van & Storage would like to take a moment and thank all of our customers who voted for our company this year. We work very hard to make our customers feel comfortable during their move. We must be doing something right!

BEAUTY AND STILL THE BEST

Thank you all very much.

toll free 888.322.6099

e il

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THIS END UP

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

S teppin ’ O ut Old - SchOOl

PLAYIN’ IN

phOtO by Steve e. miller

iS a yOung ba nd w ith a n SOund . l iStenerS , pr e pa r e tO h av e yOur feet mOv ed by thiS b eSt l Oca l b a nd Or muSici a n w in ner , play ing r&b, funk , l atin , a nd mOr e .

ARTS cOntinued frOm 24 than sitting in the dark, getting immersed in cinematic fantasy, as your hands both reach for the same bucket of popcorn? Maybe you and your sweetie will want to swoon and sigh at Charlie St. Cloud. Or maybe you prefer the fascinating after-movie discussions sparked by Inception. —Brent Parker

runner up: OLDE ENGLISH Tap Room at the Santa Maria Inn ARTS cOntinued On 26

Thanks for the Vote of Confidence Santa Maria

Best Real Estate Company

922-0660 4869 S. Bradley Rd #104

Helping Buyers & Sellers on the Central Coast Since 1992

26â&#x20AC;&#x2030;

â&#x20AC;˘ Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Shepard Hall at the Santa Maria Public Library (tie)

321 Town Center West, suite B6, Santa Maria

Art galleries have come and gone in recent years, but the Town Center Gallery has remained. Now in Town Center West, the gallery has been able to grow,

421 S. McClelland, Santa Maria

î &#x152; Best î Ź Community Festival

Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival

Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s serious fun to be had at Santa Maria Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Strawberry Festival. This threeday, 11 a.m.-tomidnight celebrationcarnival happens every April at the Fairpark. Spokesperson Yvonne Biely reported that this year, despite the economy, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We had record numbers for attendance.â&#x20AC;? More than 60,000 folks of all ages lined up in droves for the sumptuous strawberry desserts and attractions, including the ever-popular

RTS

There were few places to view art when the new Santa Maria Public Library was built. Fortunately, city officials had the foresight to include Shepard Hall Gallery in the building plans. Through the work of city officials and Cultural Events Coordinator Deborah L. Hildinger, Shepard Hall has been recognized by Sun readers as one of the Best Places to View Art. Hildinger said staffers have worked hard to bring in new exhibitions and artists, choosing displays carefully. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that part of it is the strength of the work people are submitting,â&#x20AC;? Hildinger said. Being voted Best Place to View Art is encouraging, she noted, because of the hard work that went into creating the space.

adding more artists and a variety of art it couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t display before, such as jewelry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have been the only complete gallery in our present location in Santa Maria for a year, but we have been in town operating since the â&#x20AC;&#x2122;80s, with all local artists and volunteers. I think the townspeople are discovering us all over again,â&#x20AC;? said Hattie Stoddard, Town Center Gallery board member. The galleryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new digs have also provided more room for art classes, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good thing, because the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art classes are growing, too. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are trying to keep art in the community alive, and we hope more people in Santa Maria will continue to support us. We are so grateful for all the votes,â&#x20AC;? Stoddard said. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;SC

EN T

î &#x192; Best î Ł Place to View Art

Town Center Gallery (tie)

ER TAI N

ARTS continued from 25

runner up (tie): Santa Barbara County Fair runner up (tie): Allan Hancock College

ARTS continued on 28

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Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

Thank You!

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for your trust, confidence, support and for voting Skip Purper

Best Counselor/Therapist

551 W. Tefft St. Nipomo (in the Miners Shopping Center) • BRAND NAME PRODUCTS • LOCAL PRODUCE • DAIRY PRODUCTS • BAKERY ITEMS

• HEALTH & BEAUTY AIDS • BULK FOODS • ALL DISCOUNTED • HOME CARE PRODUCTS

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(805) 929-0800 www.thepantrygrocers.com Skip and his staff Hina & Emiko

E.W. SKIP PURPER, LMFT Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

2880 Santa Maria Way, Suite D4, Santa Maria 93455 (Mission Creek Plaza-upstairs) 805-938-5801 Serving children, teens, adults, couples & families

HOURS: MON - SAT 9am - 8pm · SUNDAYS 10am - 5pm

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

on a Saturday Morning

Waller Park

runner up: Tara Ferrari

 Best  Live Theater

PCPA Theaterfest

800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria Where else can you go to hear tales of joy, woe, and inspiration—and enjoy yourself at the same time? PCPA Theaterfest delivers stories audiences get lost in, and the conservatory does so

runner up: Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum

Best

Local Artist Nat Fast

Nat Fast is no stranger to the Best Local Artist category.

SURROUNDING WONDER

Voters pick ed the s a nta m a r i a Va lley d iscoV ery museum as the B est museum / l ea r ning c enter . We could tell you

a Bout a ll the fun a nd educationa l ex hiB its ther e , But a r en ’ t the gi a nt BuBBles enough of a sell?

EN T

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300 Goodwin Road, Santa Maria Painted squirrels on a wooden sign welcome visitors of all ages to Waller Park, but the youngest members of the group will probably have the most fun searching for real-life versions of the rodent—as well as ducks and assorted birds, bugs of all kinds, and various other animals. Reserve an area for a special occasion—a birthday barbecue, perhaps?—or just spread out a blanket on the grass and let the kids stop by for a quick bite between games on the playground. Older siblings can head to the volleyball and basketball courts, or the whole family can get some exercise with disc golf. Don’t let the kids have all the fun, though. —Ryan Miller

 Best  Place to Take the Kids

amazingly. Thanks to wonderfully talented students, residents, and staffers, PCPA presents worldclass theater, including such recent titles as Les Miserables and West Side Story. But the way they choose the productions takes some work, said Craig Shafer, who handles publicity for PCPA. “It’s pretty complex,” he said. “It depends on what we can get, what is going to challenge our students and audiences, and what’s of interest to our audiences.” Then, of course, they have to be able to pull it off. That means if they want to do a high-profile production, they better have the props, costumes, and people to stage it. All in all, it’s a juggling act that requires the best of everyone involved. That’s why Sun readers voted PCPA Best Live Theater once again. “In general, getting the Best Of award is a wonderful affirmation that the community embraces this gem in their backyard,” Shafer said. —SC

RTS

EN T

Ferris wheel. Other crowd pleasers were the House of Terror, Spaceship 2000, demolition derby, and bumper cars. Kids got bug-eyed as they observed a variety of wildlife—an owl, possum, falcon, and huge, awesome snakes. The strawberry festival is indeed a special experience. —HAT

He’s won for years. Why? He’s done it all, from his famous sketches of PCPA productions to paintings of California’s field and construction workers. In an article on past Santa Maria Arts Council grant winners written by yours truly, 1974 winner Shelly Higuera (nee Stroop) cited studies with Fast as pushing her along in her art career. He’s also passed his passion for the arts on to his daughter, artist and Allan Hancock College instructor Marti Fast. —BP

ARTS continued from 26

runner up: Great American Melodrama photos By steVe e. miller

 Best  Museum/ Learning

Center

Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum 705 S. McClelland, Santa Maria

For kids, the world is a wondrous place, and it’s even more wondrous when they get to touch and prod and poke it in their exploration. Little ones can do just that at the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum, featuring a shark tank, a mission to Mars exhibit, a pirate ship, tar pits, and more interactive displays children can use to get up close to the things they want to learn about. “We have realized that if the museum is open, people will come,” said Jonathan Calderwood, the museum’s program coordinator. He said the community has shown exceptional support by way of visits, volunteerism, and financial contributions. In turn, the Discovery Museum has tried to make the experience more than just about the exhibits—it’s also a great learning experience, Calderwood

ARTS continued on 30

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 â&#x20AC;˘

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

A EN T

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 Best  Radio Station

Sunny Country, FM 102.5 2215 Skyway Drive, Santa Maria One of eight local El Dorado Broadcasters stations on the Central Coast, Sunny Country plays all country all the time. Station director and regional vice president

runner up: Santa Maria Public Library

RTS

said. “People know this is a good place to come with the kids,” he said. “It’s a good place to learn and have fun.” —SC

Ron Roy has worked in the business for 20 years and has met every kind of singer from Hank Williams, Jr. to Elton John. “After you’ve met a few,” he said, “you come to the conclusion they put their pants on like everybody else.” This down-to-earth approach has made Sunny Country popular. “We are a very communityminded radio station,” Roy added, “and promote several charities and local events, like the St. Jude Dream Home.” From Garth Brooks and Tricia Yarwood to Toby Keith, Keith Urban, and ol’ Willie Nelson, they’ve got your Wild, Wild West kind of music. —AW

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runner up: The Beat, FM 97.5

Best Radio or TV

Personality Jay Turner

Sunny Country, FM 102.5 “I’m a radio geek who started jocking in nightclubs in the ’80s, to give you an idea of what level ‘geezer’ I am. I have 20 years in radio and I’ve lived to tell the tales!” It’s not The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr., but of Jay Turner, best darn radio dude this side of the Pecos! “What sets our show apart is our community involvement, including auctions for the Boys and Girls Club, Santa Maria Valley YMCA, and local police. Go to almost any charity event in town and you’ll find Sunny Country, me, and my fantastic sidekick Niki Kozak.” Jay’s go-to romance song with lovely wife Liz is Keith Urban’s “Making Memories of Us.” And his fave driving tune? Sammy Hagar’s “Can’t Drive 55.” Whoa, cowboy! —AW

runner up: LydiaPantazes

THANK YOU to ALL Santa Maria Sun Readers for ALL your support. The Center is open to the public: Best Kids After-School Program

Best Community Non-Profit Organization

Best Place To Volunteer

Best Place To Work

OF SANTA MARIA VALLEY

922-7163

Tuesday- Saturday 10 am – 4pm. For all questions please contact: Karen Evangelista at (805) 343-2939

Guadalupe Cultural Arts & Education Center

1065 Guadalupe St. Guadalupe, CA. 93434

Email:GCAEC@verizon.net www.guadalupecultural-arts.com

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

BEST BUY SANTA MARIA THANKS THE SUN READERS FOR VOTING US “BEST” YEAR AFTER YEAR!

Our team doesn’t work for commission

THEY WORK FOR YOU

NO INTEREST STOREWIDE PURCHASES TOTALING 249 & UP

At Best Buy®, you’ll find more than the latest and greatest...

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Best Place to Buy Music

Best Place to Buy/Repair Computers

Best Audio/Video Best Video Equipment Store Game Selection

BEST BUY® SANTA MARIA

2326 S. Bradley Rd., Santa Maria, CA 93455 Store Hours: Sun: 10-8; Mon-Thurs: 10-9; Fri-Sat: 10-10

For store information, visit us online at BestBuy.com/store/SantaMaria

Valid 8/19/2010 - 9/11/2010

0211D2010073 1

Best Place to Look 10 Years Younger

Call Today 928-1000

Gift Certiﬁcates Available

Dr. Michael W. Moats, a board certified dermatologist has been serving the Santa Maria Valley for over 30 years. And Moats Laser and Skin Care customizes each treatment to your specific needs performed by a highly trained, caring team of professionals. Michael W. Moats, MD Board Certified Dermatologist www.moatslaser.com 805.928.1000 525 E. Plaza Drive Ste. 200 All major credit cards accepted . Interest free Financing Avaiilable

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Burnin’

Cash cash

in which our

mar velous

m e ch a n ic quickly assembles a new, portable

time-travel device

with which to track down the

sc ou n dr el wreaking havoc across

histor y

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

Congratulations to all the 2010 Best of Winners!

The SANTA MARIA SEWING SUPERSTORE

PAID ADVERTISMENT

has been “Keeping the Central Coast in Stitches” since Bill Racanski started the business in 1967. Michael Hudachek sold his three stores in Ohio in 1979 and came to Santa Maria to purchase the business that same year.

In 2005, Michael and Ellen Hudache k move d the store to the present location at 127 East Main Street (across from the mall parking lot). Their son Christopher Lawrence, with a background in film and television, helped lay out the store to be most convenient and aesthetically pleasing for customers. The store spe cialize s in staying current with all that is new in sewing and creativity. They carry machines and sergers from Bernina, Babylock, Husqvarna Viking, White, and Singer – with prices starting at $99. Lifetime free classes come with every machine purchased. “Our goal is to give the best buying experience, training and classes for our customers. We know they do not get that kind of service buying a machine from the shelf at the Big Box Stores,” says Michael. The Santa Maria Sewing Superstore also carries the largest selection of thread in California and the best selection of sewing

furniture such as cabinets, cutting tables, storage units and sewing chairs. They stress ergonomically correct sewing. All technicians go for corporate technical training and therefore is the only sewing store on the central coast that offers “in house” repairs for all sewing equipment … including industrial machines. Michael also sharpens scissors! Elle n said, “We have the most wonderful group of customers. They and our staff are our family.” One group of ladies called “The Quilting Angels” come into the store every other Wednesday (bringing homemade cookies) and use our equipment in order to make quilts for y have now made charities. The 1285 quilts to give away to needy causes. One customer makes quilts for the owners who adopt pets from the shelter as a “carry home” security blanket. Some customers form their own “cottage” business and do very well on their Internet stores with the items they make. But most are people who enjoy the creativity and the community created by sewing. Michael says, “Buy Local and come join us!” Thanks.

127 E. Main Street, Santa Maria (805) 927-1784 www.santamariasewing.com

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

 Best 

Locally Owned

Clothing Store

your shopping mojo workin’, aim for Target, and bull’s-eye! —AW

runner up:

 Best  Real Estate

One-Way Board Shop 2348 S. Bradley, Santa Maria 250 Santa Maria Town Center Mall

Company

Century 21

Orcutt, Santa Maria, Nipomo In the 1950s, Walter A. Filer founded Century 21, though in those days it was called W.A. Filer Real Estate. Now it’s called, well, you know, and it’s become one of the largest real estate companies on the Central Coast. Boasting more than 150 agents, all brimming with customer service, Century 21 can match you with the right agent for your needs—who can then match you with the right house to call a home. Its website offers both buying and selling advice; house-hunting search criteria ranging from price to bedrooms, bathrooms, and square footage; and featured homes for sale. —RS

runner up:

 Best  Place to Buy

Goodwill

Santa Maria, Orcutt, Lompoc

Kids’ Clothes

Target

223 E. Betteravia, Santa Maria My husband and I are raising an 8-year-old grandchild, and let me tell you! They grow like bamboo—upward and outward. Our little guy’s feet sometimes grow so quickly he looks like the letter ‘L’. Target hits the mark when it comes to clothes for growing youngsters. It has great quality and brands like Mossimo, Sunny Monroe for girls, Shaun White for boys, Cherokee, Levi Strauss, and Disney. Prices will make parents and grandparents happy, and cool styles will makes kids happy. There’s almost always a sale, and great buys don’t stop at clothes. School starts soon, and Target offers uniforms, shoes, supplies, backpacks, and more at terrific prices. So grab the kids, get

Why USA

 Best  Thrift Store

runner up: It’s All About Me

There’s no more thrilling experience than making a discovery, and the thrift store is the prime hunting ground for unknown treasures. When Sun readers go a-hunting, they prefer a top selection, fair prices, and the great attitude at Goodwill. “We’re passionate about what we do,” said Senior Manager Jeff Ward. “We are here to serve our community.” Goodwill, Ward explained, is a nonprofit whose proceeds go to further Goodwill’s mission. What is that mission? Simple: “Changing people’s lives through the power of work,” Ward said. So next time you feel like going on the hunt for that perfect something you never knew you needed, head for Goodwill. —JP

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Photo By steve e. miller

So the kids need back to school clothes, and, more than likely, they’re begging to visit One-Way Board Shop to stay righteous. Co-owners and twin brothers Dan and Dave Pankratz celebrated the shop’s 10th anniversary in June. “We’re just the coolest kids in town,” Dan said cheekily. But seriously, folks: “We try to carry the best stuff in the action sports industry, which is kind of a driving force of all young kids’ style.” Not only does One-Way carry the hard-to-find smaller brands, and more popular wear and skate shoes, but it’s also a full surf, skate, and snowboard shop, with all the gear a boarder could need. One-Way also is host to a dozen events each year. Along with vendors, carnival games, and tons of free schwag, pro skaters drop by for demos and autograph signings, sticking around for instructional sessions at a local park. —JT

Kohl’s

BUMPER CROP

t he crew at Pat ’s automotive , winner of Best auto r ePairs, is really into cars. a nd under cars, around cars, Behind cars, in front of cars—you get the Picture .

 Best  Gift Shop Company’s Coming

 Best  Locally Owned Jewelry Store Melby’s Jewelers

1108 E. Clark, Santa Maria

1140 E. Clark, Orcutt

What’s the secret to Marty Willey’s success? Just ask her. She’ll explain the “eclectic mix of quality, unusual, exclusive-to-the-store items.” The owner of Company’s Coming said she earned this Best Of honor by being in business for 32 years. When she first moved to the area in 1975, one of the first things she did was look for a gift shop. She must not have found what she was looking for, so in 1978 she opened her own. These days, Company’s Coming offers an array of collectibles, beautiful ceramics, candles, pillows, and more. There are gifts for everyone—including yourself! —RS

Melby’s Jewelers has quite a lineage; Arnold Melby opened the shop in Lompoc in 1922. His son Donald joined him in 1945. President and CEO Mark Melby—Donald’s son— moved the store to Orcutt in 2000. His son, Aaron Sturges-Melby, said they owe their popularity to excellent customer service and knowledge. “The important thing to look for in a diamond is the quality of the cut, because that is what brings out its brilliance,” he explained. “Carat equals the weight, but how a gem is cut determines its size and dimensions. Clarity is internal inclusions or lack of.” Melby’s specializes in cus-

runner up: VTC Foundation Thrift Store runner up:

Hallmark BURNIN’ CASH continued on 36

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

IS YOURS JUST HANG ING AROUND?

Thank You... for voting us the Best Travel Agency in Santa Maria. We appreciate your business! Automobile Club of Southern California 2033-B S. Broadway, Santa Maria

805.614.1745 675 North H St., Lompoc

805.740.5208

Travel Services: · World-wide Travel Services · Cruises & Tours · Hotel Reservations · Travel Information

CTR# 1016202-80

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

BURNIN’ CASH continued from 34 tom designs. Bring a picture of what you want, and master goldsmith Tony Guzman will create it for you. Melby’s is a real gem! —AW

runner up: Fischer’s Fine Jewelry

 Best 

And you don’t have to pay a small fortune for the new eyewear—Sun readers agree that Costco is best at giving its members high quality at low prices. All of the opticians are licensed to ensure Costco gives you exactly what you need and can afford. —SS

runner up: LensCrafters

Place to Buy

 Best 

Eyewear

Place to

Buy Music

Costco

1335 S. Bradley, Santa Maria

Best Buy

2326 S. Bradley, Santa Maria

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Does everything seem a bit out of focus? Maybe it’s time to buy some new glasses. If you happen to have a Costco membership, you don’t need to go searching for an optometrist. All you have to do is go to Costco, which offers a wide selection of designer frames, ranging from Calvin Klein to Giorgio Armani.

C as h

We’ve got iPods, MP3s, Pandora, the iTunes store—you mean people still go to a physical location to buy music? Sure they do, and when they’re on the hunt for the latest tunes, locals head for Best Buy. The shop offers a lot of albums and

friendly, knowledgeable staffers who help set Best Buy apart from competitors, said Manager John Montoya. “We have a good selection, great prices, we know our stuff,” he said. “And sometimes, people just want to talk to someone in person.” But if a CD a customer is looking for isn’t in the store? Best Buy owns Napster, Montoya said, and can help someone set up an account right there and buy the album or track they’re looking for. —NW

runner up:

Target

 Best  Bookstore The Bookworm

230 Betteravia, suite K, Santa Maria Owner Sheila Butterworth came to Santa Maria to be closer to her son and grandchildren. Her bookstore has been providing locals with reading material for five years. Stop by and take a look at the display window, which is “beautifully decorated right now with elves and fairies,” she said. Then step inside and check out the wonderful selection. “There are

many excellent writers out there, and the store is filled to capacity with such wonderful books,” Butterworth said. “They’re even crawling all over the floor.” Mrs. Butterworth said she’s very grateful for the support she’s received from customers, especially in this economy. Readers are happy she’s here. —BP

runner up: Dollar Book Store

 Best  Fabric

or Quilt Store

Betty’s Fabrics

1627 S. Broadway, Santa Maria Betty Pilkington was a new bride and home economics major when, in 1960, she convinced her husband Santa Maria needed a fabric shop. “We have everything, including over 10,000 bolts of fabric,” she said. “We have several kinds of batting, as well as some special made because they are extra wide. People come from out of town, and we

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BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

Thank you Santa Maria & Orcutt

for voting us BEST TANNING SALON! BRING IN THIS AD AND RECEIVE

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Happy Hour 4-8pm

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Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

make sure they get exactly what they need—and they are so delighted. We pride ourselves on customer service. I have 26 staff members, and we all sew.” Pilkington dotes on her customers. “We’re serving customers’ children and grandchildren. That is a terrific honor,” she said. “I don’t plan on retiring. It’s been a fun career, and I just celebrated my 50th year. I tell everyone I started when I was 4!” —AW

runner up: Beverly’s FabricS

 Best  Video Game Selection

2204 S. Bradley, Santa Maria Whether you’re looking for old Gamecube titles; the latest releases for the PS3, Xbox 360, or Wii; or something to keep your PC gaming skills up to speed, you’re not going to find a better selection than at GameStop in Santa Maria’s Crossroads shopping center. While offering a humongous selection of the latest titles, GameStop’s huge inventory of used titles really puts it over the top, said Store Manager Erick Voss. “Our main customer base comes in for the used titles,” he said. “It’s our biggest selection. Even when a new game comes out, it’s usually on the used shelf within a week.” —NW

runner up:

Best Buy

 Best  Audio/Video Equipment Store

Best Buy

2326 S. Bradley, Santa Maria High def. Blu-Ray. Surround sound. It’s not just about watching movies on a TV anymore, it’s about a fully networked, streaming cacophony of sight and sound. HDMI? 1080 what? Dolby Digital? Whether you’re looking to build the next best thing to a holodeck or just need some cables or speakers, Best Buy is the place to head. Manager Mike Montoya said it’s not just the wide selection that sets Best Buy apart. “A lot of times when you walk in to our competitors, they don’t

runner up: Audio Video CITY

 Best  Place to

Buy/Repair a Computer

Best Buy

2326 S. Bradley, Santa Maria Whether they need a new computer or it’s time to bring one back from the dead, Sun readers’ first stop is Best Buy and the Geek Squad. Those geniuses in the white shirts and black ties are a cut above the rest, thanks to their training and honesty, said Geek Squad Manager Carmen R. Vadillo. “We’re certified and involved with the latest technology. If we feel it’s not going to benefit them to repair their product, we’ll let them know it’s best for them to purchase something new.” Vadillo said she’s seen it all, repair-wise. Customers have brought in laptops that have been run over, been left out in a field, even had puppy throw-up on them. “We have to turn away the ones with vomit on them,” she said. “Customers usually understand.” —NW

runner up:

Costco

 Best  Bike Shop

Mainstreet Cycles 311 E. Main St., Santa Maria

When it comes to being passionate about gear-driven travel, Mainstreet Cycles owner Scott Clark and the rest of his staff have few equals. Operating for the past 25 years from the same location, Clark has kept riders pedaling along, combining knowledgeable service with a friendly, approachable attitude. “A lot of times people go into a pro shop and they get this really cliquey, snooty attitude, and we’re not like that,” he said. “Yet we’re very capable, and we’ve got a long history of being that way.” To Mainstreet’s employees, all avid cyclists, bikes aren’t just toys, they’re a way of life. Riding, nutrition, and proper bike fitting are all hot topics of daily discussion, and as a true pro shop, they service everything from high-end enthusiast machines to family and commuting bikes. Mainstreet primarily carries road and mountain bikes for sale, with brands such as Trek, Electra, and, starting next year, Gary Fisher. —JT

and tackle, rifles and shotguns, and more. The store also carries fishing and hunting licenses, as well as Adventure Passes for outdoorsy types. —JP

runner up:

Play It Again Sports

 Best  Local Bank

Or Credit Union

CoastHills Federal Credit Union

Lompoc, Santa Maria, Orcutt, Nipomo Since 1958, locals have been able to bank among friends at Coast Hills Credit Union. What began as a means of serving personnel at Vandenberg Air Force Base has grown into an institution. Members now even have use of a fullservice website that allows for true “banking from home” functionality. They can also take advantage of a full array of loans, including real estate, business, and new and used car options. The credit union offers an online site that features a quarterly issued magazine with interesting information about loans, employees, and volunteers who make a difference—all part of the organization’s vision of making a difference in neighbors’ lives. —RS

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GameStop

necessarily know how to get you up and running once you’ve made your purchase. Our staff is trained, and we offer home installation through Geek Squad.” Dark Knight, anyone? —NW

BURNIN’ CASH continued from 36

C as h

runner up: Central Coast Cyclery

 Best 

Sports/Outdoor

Store

Big 5 Sporting Goods

305 Town Center West, Santa Maria 1512 North H St., Lompoc Tomorrow’s the big game and your cleats have ripped. What do you do? Next week is the big fishing trip and you need bait and tackle. What do you do? You just want to play a pick-up game in the park, but your little sister borrowed your basketball and lost it. What do you do? One name is synonymous with meeting Sun readers’ athletic needs: Big 5 Sporting Goods. “The company is strong and growing in an environment where stores are closing,” said Store Manager Ron Dodds. Big 5 supports anybody with a healthy appetite for field sports, Frisbee golf, water sports, camping goods, fishing rods, bait

runner up:

Rabobank

 Best  Auto Repairs Pat’s Automotive

931 S. Blosser, Santa Maria When your car breaks down—why didn’t you spring for that anachronistic cyber steam engine motorcycle?—who do you call? Sun readers suggest Pat’s Automotive. Owners Pat and Patricia Nicoli have doctored local automobiles since 1985, and the service just gets stronger every year. “The most challenging part is to stay updated with all the technology,” Pat said. “You used to see the same problems over and over again, but now there’s a new problem every day.” But the biggest problem may surprise you. “Mice,” Pat revealed. “It’s the weirdest thing. They like to eat wires— causes thousands of dollars worth of damage. But the worst part is when they die in the car. That’s messy.” —CS

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• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

 Best  Auto

Dealership, Used

 Best  Place to Buy Tires

Toyota of Santa Maria

Costco

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 Best  Auto

Dealership, New

 Best  Car Wash

Santa Maria Car Wash

1335 S. Bradley, Santa Maria

Taking to the road is a serious matter, and choosing your vehicle is important. Toyota of Santa Maria has won Best Auto Dealership for years now because of its care, concern, and, of course, cars. “I always use the word ‘culture,’” said General Manager Carl Deriso. “Our culture is to take care of our customers. There is a lot of poor customer service in our industry, and we try to be different.” Toyota of Santa Maria carries 20 different new models of cars, trucks, and SUVs, so chances are good there’s at least one car waiting for you there. “We enjoy seeing generations come in to get their Toyotas,” Deriso said. —JP

Buying a used car can be a scary proposition; how do you know where that thing’s been? Toyota of Santa Maria has beat out all the used car lots once again for one very important reason: standards. “We have an award-winning service department,” said General Manager Carl Deriso. “Our used cars go through a thorough inspection.” Toyota of Santa Maria doesn’t sell strictly Toyotas in its used department; whatever they come across that meets their standards will make it out to the lot, including not just imported cars, but domestics, too. “I’m looking out the window, and I see a couple of Ford Mustangs, Jeep Wranglers, Chevy Tahoe, Dodge Ram trucks, and used Toyotas,” Deriso said. “You never know what you could find.” —JP

runner up:

You truly can buy just about everything at Costco—and you don’t even need to be around for all the work. While you’re wandering through the store, feasting on free samples, you can also have a brand new set of tires installed. The mechanics at the Costco tire department are experts in making sure you get the best tires for your car and your wallet. And they come with a guarantee that covers the life of the tire. If anything happens to your reliable rollers, Costco will either repair or replace them for free. —SS

Toyota of Santa Maria 700 E. Betteravia, Santa Maria

Honda of Santa Maria

Imagine... getting set for a successful school year.

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I was driving down the road the other day, and I smelled something funky. After some investigation, evidence revealed the source wasn’t coming from outside but inside the car! I immediately made for Broadway where I found Santa Maria Car Wash ready to take me in, funky smell and all! I was greeted with a smile and waited barely long enough to finish a magazine article before my car was wheeled out, shining like a jewel and smelling like a meadow of fresh flowers. Santa Maria Car Wash’s professionals will get down and dirty cleaning your vehicle inside and out with their quick hand wash, all the way to their full detailing—no matter

n’

Honda of Santa Maria

700 E. Betteravia, Santa Maria

629 S. Broadway, Santa Maria 2301 S. Broadway, Santa Maria

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runner up:

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Best Bookstore Thank You

for all your wonderful support.

Here’s to many more years of happy reading and recycling books. Come on in and get your gratitude rock! SM

~Mrs. Butterworth

Everyone goes back to school with high hopes. Kumon Math and Reading students sharpen their study habits, so they can take on schoolwork with greater focus and self-discipline. So you can look forward to one truly amazing school year after another.

Call to schedule a

FREE

placement test today!

KUMON MATH & READING CENTER OF

ORCUTT 805-354-0650

4869 S. Bradley Rd. Suite 121 Santa Maria, CA 93455

This Center oﬀer Junior Kumon Pre-School & Kindergarten Age

230-K E. Betteravia, Santa Maria (Near Pier 1 Imports)

922-4282

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 â&#x20AC;˘

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Thank you

to all our customers

Introducing Amit Gupta, D.O.

Voted best grocery store

Our new Pain Management Physician. Now available in San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria. Specializing in Anesthesiology and Pain Management.

RUSS LEVITAN, M.D. CARLOS UNTAL, M.D. TIMOTHY KUANG, M.D. JASHVANT PATEL, M.D. AMIT GUPTA, D.O.

805-544-PAIN (7246) 10 Santa Rosa Street, Suite 201 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Visit us at your neighborhood store 2320 S. Broadway, Santa Maria 346-2077 1120 E. Clark, Orcutt 934-4472

805-922-5655

1300 E. Cypress, Suite E Santa Maria, CA 93455

Most insurance plans accepted including Workman’s comp

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runner up:

Splash ‘n’ Dash/Saturn

 Best  Place to Fill Up Your Car Union 76

Santa Maria and Old Orcutt In this grab-and-go car culture of ours, it’s nice to know you can still get a smile and a nice conversation at the busiest place of all: the gas station. Union 76 stations in Old Orcutt and Santa Maria are known for their preservation of the small gas station. Santa Maria 76 sports a car wash along with its snacks, drinks, and competitively priced gas. The Old Orcutt Union 76 provides smog checks and basic maintenance in its garage for anybody in need of not just a fill up, but an oil change and more. Together, these two locations have secured a trusted name in gas for Sun readers. —JP

runner up: Chevron

 Best  Furniture

Store

Orchard Supply Hardware

1950 S. Broadway, Santa Maria As I was speeding through the eons in my time machine, watching the ebbs and flows of society pass by in the blink of an eye, I heard a distressing sound: I had sprung a leak! When the time machine came to a full stop, I was parked outside Orchard Supply Hardware in Santa Maria of all places! Upon entering, I marveled at the plethora of equipment and tools arrayed in startlingly organized rows: hand tools, power tools, electrical equipment, nuts and bolts, fencing, housewares, plumbing, keying, paints and paint matching, gardening, and a nursery. A uniformed employee helpfully informed me of exactly what I’d need to fix my contraption and how to do it! Store Manager Robert Smith explained to this humble time traveler the reasons for such stunning efficiency: “We have a lot of general knowledge on top of our training. A lot of the departments

have people who used to work in that field.” After fixing the leak on the time machine, it started whirring to life, awaiting my command to send us shooting into the future, but I had to ask myself after my experience—did I really want to go? —JP

runner up: Home Depot

for 42 years. Eric credits superior installation and sales for their Best Of win. “Our installers are topnotch,” he said, “and the professionalism of our sales people is very noticeable. They are knowledgeable and helpful.” Now on their third generation of customers, he added, “We look at our business like a relationship, and our customers stay with us for years.” The store offers laminates and hardwood flooring in various finishes, and carpeting in a bevy of colors and styles—even shag. They also know carpet and flooring care, and have more than 3,000 area rugs throughout the store. Pay them a visit, and you’ll be floored! —AW

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how big the mess. “A lot of farmers come in with their trucks caked full of mud,” said Manager Bob Tirnat. But no job’s too small, either! —JP

 Best  Hardware

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

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 Best  Carpet/ Flooring Store

Carpet One Valley Flooring

runner up: Abbey Carpet

1133 W. Cook, Santa Maria

Owners Ron Ferrari and sons Eric and Steve comprise a League of Extraordinary Gentlemen who’ve been in business

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CRUSTACEANS AHOY!

c r a b c ov e—w in n er of b est new b usin ess a nd b est new r estaur a nt of 2009—serv es up the ocea n ’s bount y to hungry din ers .

Store

Weatherby’s Furniture

1505 S. Broadway, Santa Maria Somewhere is a backside without a stool, feet without an ottoman, a bad back without a recliner. Also, lying in wait, is a spotless showroom of pristine furniture waiting to be taken home to ease the restless legs and tired backs of their new owners. That someplace is Weatherby’s Furniture. “The floor is always changing,” said Store Manager Craig Cooper, who explained that Weatherby’s is a full-destination furniture store. Couches, end and coffee tables, bureaus, dressers, bed frames, chairs, recliners, and a full mattress gallery make up Weatherby’s huge selection, which includes brands like Lane, Berkline, Broyhill, Ashley, Serta, and La-Z-Boy. —JP

runner up: Rendezvous

photo by steve e. miLLer

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

d THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST CARE HOMES ON THE CENTRAL COAST

1 AGAIN

FOUR YEARS IN A ROW!

THANK YOU

GN O- LIA A M

TO OUR WONDERFUL CREW & AWESOME CUSTOMERS, YOU ARE THE REASON WE’RE #1

---------------------------------------------

call us for all your plumbing needs!

A RESID ENCE FO R A DULTS WITH A L Z HE I M E R’ S

925-0199

OR OTHER FO RMS O F DIM E N TI A --------------------------------------------4620 Song Lane in Old Tow n O rcutt www.magnoliacare.net, 805 / 937-3332 Ch u ck & Margie Halsell, O w ne rs

BEST PLUMBING Bes t Bes t of

Santa Maria Valley

WINNER

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Remodeler

Bob Snow Construction

Accessories Store

P.O. Box 2281, Orcutt Brothers Bob and Mike Snow of Snow Construction have been serving Santa

Pier 1 Imports

230 E. Betteravia, Santa Maria 609 North H St., Lompoc Tired of a room filled with copper wires and rusted clockworks? Pier 1 Imports may solve your interior dilemma. “The shopping experience here is unique because we have merchandise coming from more than 50 countries,” said Jennifer Engstrand, media relations specialist for Pier 1 Imports. “We have outdoor décor inspired by the tropics, bold stripes from Mexican resorts, and entertaining pieces inspired by summer barbecues.” Bright colors and mosaic tiles are shining brightly this summer season. Whether it be candles, picture frames, or upholstered furniture, there are hidden treasures to be found to spruce up your humble abode. —CS

 Best  Home

Maria and the surrounding communities with quality residential and commercial construction projects for more than 15 years. “We take pride in our workmanship, providing attention to detail, cost effectiveness, and job completion in a timely manner that makes our customers’ vision a reality,” Bob said. Snow Construction is also involved in the community, doing its part to continue to help make Santa Maria a great place to live. —RS

been busy.” What kind of busy? “We’re doing a lot more interlocking pavers,” she explained. “People are trying to be more waterconscious. People are trying to look more long-term, with more water-wise plants and more hardscaping. Succulents—plants that require little water—have gotten a lot more popular.” The outfit’s website quotes famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright: “Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.” —BP

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 Best  Home

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runner up: Home Depot

 Best  Landscaper

runner up: Cavazons and Sons

Nishimori Landscape and Design

 Best  Nursery

807 S. Blosser, Santa Maria

Whispering Tree

“We still specialize in primarily residential landscaping, installation, and maintenance,” said co-owner Jill Sims, speaking on behalf of founder Jim Nishimori. “That’s kind of what’s helped us get through this economy. We’ve still

runner up: Home Depot

We treat your Pet as if they were our OWN. SMALL ANIMAL • MEDICINE • SURGERY • DENTISTRY

110 Norris, Orcutt With its large selection of plants and trees of many varieties and lots and lots of accessories and supplies, Whisper-

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Best Thrift Store NOW IN 2 LOCATIONS

Puppy - Kitten Health Programs • Chiropractic Care Vaccination Clinics • Reduced Fee Spay - Neuter Days

All Valley Pet Hospital

Best Veterinarian

Thank You For Your Continued Support!

VTC Thrift Boutique is Now Open in Lompoc Monday Madness 30% OFF entire store

230-A East Betteravia Road, Santa Maria

10 for $10 Tuesdays 10 standard items for $10 Senior Thursdays 10% OFF for customers 55+

7-7 Monday - Friday • 9-Noon Saturday

FREE Donation Pick Ups

Holistic Medicine Chiropractic Martin M. Vale, D.V.M. In the Ross Shopping Center By Appointment

ALLVALLEYPETHOSPITAL.COM · 805-922-0305

E-Waste Recycle Drop Off Site

VTC THRIFT STORE 124 North I St., Lompoc 529 S. Blosser, Santa Maria 805-928-3436

Assisting youth & adults with disabilities or other limitations in choosing & achieving their life goals.

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runner up:

Old Town runner up: Garden Center a little something flowers and gifts

 Best  Flower Shop Camfeldt’s Flowers 2345 S. Broadway, Santa Maria

Sixty-five years in any business is impressive, but when the business is flowers, it’s even more impressive. Prepare to be impressed—but easily see why—when you step into Camfeldt’s Flowers. The shop was founded by Bob and Margaret Camfeldt more than six decades ago and has been owned by Joe and Dawn Gug-

 Best  Attorney Michael B. Clayton

400 E. Orange, Santa Maria Attorney Michael B. Clayton said that the three lawyers who work at the practice have more than 80 years of collective experience. He commented that being chosen Best Attorney for so many years in a row is humbling. “I feel that there is competition out there, and we’re happy to have been selected again,” he said. And what write-

up about Clayton would be complete without mention of his Christmas decorations? “We put up 100,000 Christmas lights annually,” he said. “To see a little boy or girl’s eyes light up in front of all those lights is the reason why we continue to do it.” —BP

runner up:

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ing Tree is the perfect place to stop for all your nursery needs. Have a question? Ask the friendly, experienced staff for answers—they’re all “nursery people.” For a first-hand look at what may fit in your own yard, there are abundant landscape trees in specimen containers, roses, a wide selection of pottery in all colors, statues, sprays, and other garden supplies. Walk through the showroom inside, too, where you’ll find a gift section with blooming plants ready for the giving. —RS

gia for 30 years. The married couple met at Camfeldt’s when Joe was a delivery boy and Dawn was some extra help. Now, years later, Joe is AIFD (that’s American Institute of Floral Designers) approved. Dawn pointed out the approval is a special and rare accreditation. Joe sure earned it: Camfeldt’s can do just about anything with petals, including parties, weddings, funerals, “porchscapes,” and full house decoration. “A lot of people think that a full service flower shop is going to charge you more,” Dawn said. “Whoever your florist of choice is, you should always give them a chance to make a bid.” —JP

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

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runner up:

David Bixby

 Best  Plumber Jack’s All American Plumbing

2011-A Preisker Lane, Santa Maria Perhaps the Victorians can learn something from Jack Bingham, president of Jack’s All American. Specifically? They could use some help keeping their sewage lines clean. Whether it’d be the kitchen sink, bathroom toilets, or leaking pipes, there’s not a problem Jack can’t solve—or a treasure he can’t find. “It’s so diverse, we never find the same things twice,” said Becky Bingham, company president.

FIT AS A FELINE

of four - legged fr iends , But mostly cAts A nd dogs .

Lanini’s

 Best  Veterinarian Evergreen Animal Clinic 3389 Orcutt Road, Santa Maria

Associate veterinarian Kira Maleski has been working at Evergreen for nearly three years. She first worked at the establishment on a trial basis—since she lives in San Luis Obispo and has to make a long commute. After working with owner Dr. Dave Olwin for a while, however, she decided the drive was worth it. Maleski said the patients are mostly dogs and cats, though they do occasionally see other animals, like rabbits, rats, and other rodents. “It’s a huge honor for the practice,” she said of winning Best Veterinarian in this year’s poll. “It makes us really proud and happy.” —BP

e v ergr een A nim A l c linic , w hich Sun r eA ders voted B est veter inA r i A n , h A ndles heA lth issues for A ll sorts

“We’ve helped a guy find his glass eye that fell into his shower drain once.” There’s a reason why this service has won four years in a row. “We’re trustworthy, we don’t tell people to get something they don’t need,” Bingham explained. “We always go that extra mile for them.” —CS

runner up: All Valley Pet Hospital

 Best  Place to Buy a Pet Santa Maria Valley Humane Society

751 Black Road, Santa Maria

Photo By steve e. miller

Everyone needs a companion to share adventures with, and who better than a loyal canine or feline? According to Sun readers, the best place to buy a pet is the Santa Maria Valley Humane Society. “I think people are starting to understand that adoption is the best way of acquiring a pet,” executive director Jill Tucker said. “It’s the most ethical and economical way to get a pet, and all of our animals are great.” Adoption fees are $65 and $90 for cats and dogs older than 6 months, and $30 and $45 for cats and dogs 6 years or older. All of the shelter’s animals are fixed and vaccinated, Tucker said, and

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Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

Best of y e l l a V a i r a Santa M

Voted the best credit union. With one of the nation’s best credit cards, too. U as

low as 8.25% APR*

800-262-4488 | bankamongfriends.com

UÊno

annual fee

Serving everyone who lives, works, or worships in Northern Santa Barbara & San Luis Obispo Counties.†

UÊearn

rewards with every purchase

†

* APR = Annual Percentage Rate. 8.25% APR is our lowest rate for the Platinum Plus card. Your APR may vary depending upon your credit score. All applications are subject to credit approval. All rates are subject to change without notice.

E I LIK RDING A O EB KAT

DAN PANKRATZ

LETS OPEN A STORE!

A minimum deposit of $5 in a regular share account is required for membership.

I LIKE SURFING

DAVE PANKRATZ

DAVE AND I WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS FOR 10 YEARS OF SUCCESS. WE SET OUT TO PROVIDE THE CENTRAL COAST WITH THE BEST PLACE TO GET ALL THEIR BOARDS, CLOTHING, AND SHOES. OUR PASSION FOR SURF, SKATE, AND SNOW IS WHY WE STARTED. YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT WILL KEEP IT ALIVE! THANKS-DAN PANKRATZ-CO-OWNER

WWW.ONEWAYBOARDSHOP.COM

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runner up:

PetSmart

 Best  Place to Pamper Your Pet PetSmart

2306 S. Bradley, Santa Maria The pets of Santa Maria must always leave PetSmart purring or with their tails wagging or saying, “Polly is very happy! Polly is very happy! Awk!” as the case may be, because their faithful people voted it Best Place to Pamper Your Pet. In addition to pet

runner up: The Mutt Hut

 Best  Place to Get a Tattoo Copper Coffin

104 W. Chapel, Santa Maria When you decide to permanently state your love for You Know Who on your arm, Jimmy Coffin, the owner of Copper Coffin, is your go-to man. He can boast more than 21 years of tattooing experience and of bringing international artists and designs to Santa Maria. “We’re not your average shop,” Coffin said. “We have people from France, Ireland, all over the nation come to us for their tattoos.” With a versatile crew of artists, stagnation

Thank you to all of our valued customers

is not allowed. “Stars are the most requested design, so we try to spruce it up, individualize it so it’s different,” he explained. The coolest design he’s done? “A Chinese baby with lotus flowers,” Coffin said. “It was awesome.” —CS

runner up:

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there’s also an onsite low-cost clinic. In July, the shelter celebrated an important milestone when it broke ground on its new facility on West Stowell Road. Once completed, the building will offer state-of-the-art adoption and medical services, including an expanded clinic and enclosure and outdoor areas. “We desperately need the new space,” Tucker said. “There are so many animals that need a chance. They need a facility that will help them get adopted.” —AA

supplies and treats, PetSmart also offers services such as grooming and training. “Grooming is more than an attractive hairdo,” says the PetSmart website. “It’s a matter of health and hygiene.” The site describes training as “a fun and interactive learning environment using positive reinforcement techniques.” —BP

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

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Upper Room

Best Place for a

Body Piercing Upper Room

113 W. Main, Santa Maria Piercings are an ancient tradition as old as we are, but the Upper Room in Santa Maria still manages to put a new twist on the art. “The ‘upper room’ in the olden times was a place of gathering,” said coowner Sabin Brock. “The environment and the professionalism of the of the technicians help the customer relax.” Brock and his wife Joylinn moved their tattoo and piercing parlor to Santa Maria from Orcutt. They famously offer $25 pierc-

ings, and they’ll pierce just about everywhere—excluding a few places— and they’ll do so in a friendly and sanitary manner. —JP

runner up: Copper Coffin

 Best  Photographer Luis Escobar/ Reflections

824 S. Broadway, Santa Maria When asked what’s new this year, Luis Escobar replied: “Our yard is an ongoing, evolving project. We’re always adding things back there to photograph with, new landscaping and props. Another thing that’s fairly new since last year is Facebook and the explosion of that. I keep myself involved to keep work out there, and fresh, and instant. I do a lot of high school senior portraits, and part

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Thank you from Dr. Olwin and the Staff at Evergreen Animal Clinic for Voting Us the BEST Veterinarian

We are privileged to care for your treasured friends and will continue to provide you with excellent customer service. Thank you for your loyal support for the past 40 plus years. Please stop by and visit us.

Dr. David Olwin · Dr. Kira Maleski · Dr. Louise Butler (805) 937-6341 3389 Orcutt Road #101, Santa Maria, CA. Hours: Monday-Friday 8am to 5:30pm, Saturday 8am to Noon

Serving, Santa Maria · Los Alamos · Orcutt · Guadalupe · Nipomo

925-2531 · 205 N. Broadway

“Santa Maria’s Preferred Florist for 40 Years”

Evergreen Animal Clinic

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

BURNIN’ CASH continued from 46 of this service now includes uploading selected images to their Facebook page at no extra cost.” Escobar also commented on his strong relationship with PCPA Theaterfest: “I really enjoy photographing the actors and dancers.” —BP

runner up: Photography by Richard

 Best  Place to Have a Wedding Reception

Santa Maria Inn

a beautiful garden, stone walkways, and vows exchanged under canopies, there’s no other place filled with more romance than the inn. “We get both locals and out of towners [coming] here to get married,” hotel manager assistant Alicia Zuniga said. “We’ve even had an experience where the ceremony almost went on without the groom!” The venue’s not only for newlyweds, though. “We have people renew their vows here, too,” Zuniga explained. “They just love the romantic atmosphere.” —CS

Movers’ website and take a gander at all the available meatheads—the husky lads who will be wrapping, packing, and carting your stuff in and out of trucks. Pictures, capsule bios, and interests are listed. You get to select the meatheads you want to work with you. Company co-founder Aaron Steed said customers love this: “Our movers spend five to eight hours with the customers while packing up. Customers can choose guys they have something in common with. We want them to feel comfortable with our employees.” —HAT

runner up: Addamo Estate

runner up: Andersen Movers

 Best  Moving

 Best  Travel

Meathead Movers

2033 S. Broadway, suite B, Santa Maria

Company

801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria A wedding generally consists of a blushing bride, a well-composed groom, a not-so-well-composed mother-in-law, and disappearing bridesmaids. So where’s the best location to create such chaotic happiness? Sun readers say it’s the historic Santa Maria Inn. With

221 Town Center West, suite 351, Santa Maria If you’re about to make a move, you can go to Meathead

THE RIGHT TIME FOR AN ORTHODONTIC CHECK-UP:

NO LATER THAN AGE 7

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children get a check-up with an orthodontist no later than age 7 because, while your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there may actually be a problem that needs to be evaluated by an orthodontist. SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT IF YOUR RECOGNIZE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING PROBLEMS IN YOUR GROWING CHILD: • Early or Late loss of baby teeth • Difficulty in chewing or biting • Mouth breathing • Jaws that shift or make sounds • Speech difficulties • Biting the cheek or the roof of the mouth • Facial imbalance • Grinding or clenching of the teeth • Thumb or finger sucking

Travel agent Kristen Couch has been with AAA for more than four years. She said agents can book

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WITH CONTRACT - MENTION THIS AD

CLEANER CANS

BEST NEW BUSINESS · Cleaner Cans is a locally owned and operated curbside trash can cleaning service on the central coast. · Our unit is 100% environmentally friendly and fully self-contained.

· We recycle all water through a specialized filter system specifically designed by Cleaner Cans.

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Let your smile Bloom! Board Certified Orthodontist

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• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

The family and staff at Pickle Auto Repair would like to for voting us one of the best auto repair shops in Santa Maria!

customers

thank our

thank you!

A Unique Blend of Furniture, Clothing, Shoes & Accessories For Babies & Toddlers

The Pickle family serving your family since 1958

1032 W. Main St. Santa Maria 925-7637 or 925-5917

Brand Name Clothes: Le Top, Baby LuLu, CachCach, Mud Pie, Tralala & More. Furniture by Stanley & Million Dollar Baby

Decisions...Decisions!

Photo by David Beninga

Blue & Humpback Whale Watching Now thru September 9am to 4pm $63/adult $47 child

See web site for Schedules

Explore Channel Islands National Park

Coastal Tall Ship Sails Island Wildlife Cruises

(805) 922-9195 118 Town Center East Santa Maria Town Center

For Schedules and Information

ISLANDPACKERS.COM 805-642-1393 From Ventura and Oxnard Harbors

Photo by Tim Hauf

HIKE · KAYAK · CAMP

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

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Place to Put Up Visiting

Family

consultations. Feeling that pressure sliding off your shoulders? You sure should. —CS

runner up: Santa Maria Airport Radisson

Santa Maria Inn

801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria

Crab Cove

Peter Han has created a cool, upbeat place in what was once the dark, fern-bar atmosphere of Baker’s Square. Major renovation included a seating area, banquet room with karaoke machine, and sushi bar. It’s bright, hip, and you can write on the walls and draw pictures with Sharpies and crayons. It’s like being a kid again—only better, because you get to nosh on some spectacular grown-up food, including several kinds of sushi, whole Dungeness crab, lobster, and crawfish, which has a sweet flavor similar to its big brother. And there’s a special menu for the real kids. Daily specials include a bento box for $7.99 with your choice of three items.—AW

Not enough room in your humble abode to stash visiting family? The Santa Maria Inn just might help you relieve that filial pressure. Featuring unique historical elements, tastefully remodeled rooms, and homemade chocolate chip cookies at the front desk, the accommodations are seemingly endless. “We have a strong desire to constantly upgrade and improve the facilities and quality of services offered,” said General Manager John Reinacher. “We’re committed to making the inn their first choice.” The facility’s Tower Lane Shops offer services such as massages, boutique shopping, and even professional

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runner up (tie): Pescadero Travel runner up (tie): Agawa Travel

 Best  New Business of 2009 841 S. Broadway, Santa Maria

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everything from airlines and Amtrak tickets to car rentals, hotels, cruises, and excursions. Agents also have passport and visa information, and carry certain foreign currencies to exchange so travelers can leave with roughly $100 worth of pocket money. According to Couch, the most popular trips are to Europe—especially Germany and Switzerland. AAA members also receive discounts on everything from hotels to dining to travel to shopping, and can get free U.S. maps and discount international maps. Whether a road warrior, Warrior of the Air, or time traveler, no journey should be undertaken without consulting your AAA travel agent. —AW

 Best 

runner up: Cleaner Cans

Play It Again Sports wishes to

Thank all of our Customers and invite any new customers to

see what your missing!

Come see our beautiful new Tile & Stone Showroom

CONTRACTORS PLUS TILE & DESIGN CENTER REE Neawtion a(805) 614-4200 De In H sign Some LoWc. Betteravi ervice F

495

2530-K S. Broadway, Santa Maria · 614-0072 www.playitagainsports-santamaria.com · pias11224@aol.com

Fax (805) 614-4226

Hours: Mon-Fri 8-5pm Sat 9-2pm

495 W. Betteravia, Santa Maria jandd@contractorsplus.comcastbiz.net

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

CONGRATULATIONS to all the

Winners!

from Park Avenue Smiles!

Carolyn R. Baldiviez, DDS Park Avenue Smiles

111 E. Park Ave. Santa Maria • CA • 93454

S. BROADWAY

805-925-8112

CARMEN

101

A RD. ERAVI BETT

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 â&#x20AC;˘

Feelinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Good

in which our i n i m it a ble

av i at r i x

delivers a blow for justice across the criminal jaw of

the light-fingered

r o g u e,

safely securing the

fa m o u s time zeppelin

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

 Best  Health

 Best  Massage

Club/Gym

Therapist

In Shape City

Insparations

130 E. Clark, Old Orcutt

1318 S. Broadway, Santa Maria 501 W. Central Ave., Lompoc

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You never know when you might run into a Morlock, and if you do, it would be wise to be in shape. What better place to prepare for such a situation than pumping iron at In Shape City? At the Santa Maria branch of this chain, visitors can find themselves busy with the rock wall, or the free weight sections, or the luxurious pool and spa. Members who bring their children will find a section devoted to kids; it’s no wonder why the people of Santa Maria have claimed this as the best gym: Happy people work out at In Shape City. —HH

runner up: Santa Maria Athletic Club

Insparations owner Sheila Gibilisco knows our bodies are extraordinary engines. She and massage therapists Kimberly Hobbs and Jalynn Grace communicate with clients to meet each person’s individual needs. They offer relaxing Swedish and intense deep-tissue massage, hot stone therapy, combination massages incor porating deep tissue and Swedish, prenatal massage using a special pillow so moms-to-be can lie on their tummies, aromatherapy, and even chair massage so people on the go can remain clothed during stress-relieving back and neck rubs. Gibilisco recommends a monthly massage:

OOD

“It de-stresses and relaxes the body, helps clear lymph nodes, and is very healing.” Her motto is “Pamper body and nourish the soul.” Place yourself in their expert hands, and they’ll have you running like clockwork. —AW

runner up: Ambiance Massage

 Best  Chiropractor Pierce Chiropractic and Sports Injury Center

1415 E. Main, Santa Maria Dr. William Pierce has been caring for patients for 27 years. This home-town doc hails from Los Alamos. A chiropractic orthopedist, he treats sports injuries and musculo-skeletal problems, working closely with several MDs and surgeons to make sure his patients have the best care. “We are the first portal for people who manage their health needs,” Dr.

Pierce said. “Chiropractic is a hands-on, high-touch, high-feel approach. I like the drugless, natural approach to medical treatment.” His remarkable office staff— Jennifer, Reva, and Shawn—adeptly handles all patient concerns and works with Medicare providers and private insurance companies, and his son, Dr. Bo Pierce, has joined the practice. Together, they have your back! —AW

runner up: Jim Petersen

 Best  Yoga YMCA

3400 Skyway Drive, Santa Maria Santa Maria’s YMCA offers many different yoga classes for health and fitness—and don’t forget fun. “We offer multi-level yoga classes with a pool of very experienced instructors, who can modify the instruction for the individual,” said Lisa Niedrauer, the or-

FEELIN’ GOOD continued on 54

THANK YOU FROM THE

ACUPUNCTURE CENTER

THANK YOU

to all our patients that voted us BEST DENTIST & to ALL my staff for helping us be THE BEST. — Dr. Daniel Ng.

Best Dentist Dr. Herb Kandel, O.M.D., L.Ac. Dr. Cathryn Aiken, L.Ac. BEST ALTERNATIVE HEALER

The Acupuncture Center of Santa Maria 225 E. Mill St. Santa Maria, CA 93444 (805) 922-4490 www.drkandel.com

NG & NG

DENTAL & EYECARE CENTER

610 E. Chapel Street, Santa Maria

928-0363

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

You’re Invited!

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• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

ganization’s fitness facilities and sports director “Each instructor brings his/ her own flair to each class.” Bring your own willingness to get flexible, because that Firefly Pose doesn’t happen on its own. YMCA also offers Pilates and other group fitness classes, so achieving health and peace is definitely do-able. —RS

runner up:

In Shape City

 Best  Place to Get a Haircut Supercuts

Your hair is a very personal thing. You may not remember every haircut you’ve had, but you will remember the best. The stylists at Supercuts understand this fragile relationship we have with our hair, and they use it to their advantage. “There’s not much room for mistakes,” said stylist and Salon Manager Jamie Brokaw. “But once you have that one person coming back, you become part of their monthly ritual.” Supercuts does any style for men and women, and stylists color, bleach, and even offer facial waxing. They’re also all trained the same way and are constantly improving their art. “We are persistent in performing our craft,” Brokaw said. “We cut for your ego, not ours.” —JP

runner up: Dr. Grant Elwood

the area—even 3,000 miles away from his office—which is great when you’re traveling the world in 80 days. With an office that boasts a foosball table and a welcoming canine, Skip Purper’s space sounds more like a hangout than a place for therapy. Of course, having fun is essential to a healthy life. —HH

runner up: Dr. Donald Hole

Kelly Bell

Dr. Robert Okerblom

You Look

10 Years Younger

Skip Purper

1145 E. Clark, Santa Maria

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 Best 

Place to Make

/Therapist

Anyone who’s had a good family practitioner knows how important one can be. Dr. Robert Okerblom is so important to his patients, he’s won Best Doctor every year the Sun’s Best Of has been around. “I think that’s a testament to the quality of the staff,” Dr. Okerblom said. “They tend to take care of people like friends, not just a case or a number.” Okerblom continued to explain that his popularity has

runner up:

 Best  Counselor

 Best  Doctor

Moats Laser and Skin Care

2880 Santa Maria Way, suite 4, Santa Maria

A trip to Skip Purper’s office will show that not only is he a family therapist, he’s also a family man, since his office manager is his wife, Emiko, and he brings his dog Hina— Japanese for “princess”—to attend to his clientele, who he says “want her presence.” Purper is also known to call his clients if he’s out of

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525 E. Plaza Dr., suite 200, Santa Maria Dermatologist Dr. Michael Moats and wife Susan run a skin care salon that gives Santa Marians the opportunity to look their best. “Botox and Latisse are huge with us,” Susan Moats said. “We give more Botox injections than any other facility between Paso Robles and Santa Barbara.” This gives the Moats

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wEIGHT uP

Spin , jog , run , Str etch , lift, a nd

do all the other good -for-you Stuff

i n S hape c it y, w inner b eSt h ealth c lub /g ym .

available at

runner up (tie): Trends runner up (tie): Talk of the Town

 Best  Dentist Dr. Daniel Ng

610 E. Chapel St., suite A, Santa Maria While Neo-Victorians aren’t known for their hygiene, we modernists are quite keen on our dental health. Time for that annual checkup? Best get it done with Dr. Daniel Ng, who provides the best dental service, according to Sun readers. “We treat pa-

to do with the short wait times—and his colleagues, as well. Runner-up Dr. Don Hole practices in his office, too. “This year has been difficult for me,” Okerblom said, referring to the loss of his son last year. “It’s nice to know that my customers support me. Their support is certainly well appreciated.” —JP

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230 E. Betteravia, suite E, Santa Maria 1436 North H. St., suite 1, Lompoc

tients as we like to be treated, with respect,” dental assistant Priscilla L. said. “We’ve been in the area for quite a few years. People know us, so they come back to us—even as far as Morro Bay and Lompoc.” The office is fully equipped with the latest technology that would put H.G. Wells to shame, so patients can be sure they’ll receive excellent care. —CS

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PHoto BY SteVe e. miLLer

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

FOR ALL OF YOUR BEST BUILDING SUPPLIES

S A N TA M A R I A

800 W. Betteravia Rd 928-8557 M–F 7am - 5pm Sat. 8am - 12noon

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236 Higuera St. 543-0825 M–F 6:30am - 5pm Sat. by appointement

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• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

salon “Platinum Plus” status with the Botox manufacturer, Allergan. So many cosmetic enhancements for both men and women are available in their skin care center that the words “Santa Maria Beautiful” take on a whole new meaning. It’s not exactly the fountain of youth, but it’s pretty darn close. —HAT

runner up: Insparations

 Best  Tanning Salon Tanners Cove

1439 S. Broadway, Santa Maria 1140 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt

masking, cucumber lotion, and skin exfoliation. It’s only a matter of time until she gets an offer from the great captain himself for a stay on his submarine, where Hunter can better the crew’s life. —HH

 Best  Place for Senior Living

runner up: Image Tanning

Paradise Nails & Spa (tie)

1220 Suey Road, Santa Maria

2362 S. Bradley, Santa Maria

 Best  Manicures

/Pedicures (tie)

Talk of the Town (tie)

350E.ClarkAve.,SantaMaria

After traveling 20,000 leagues around the world in the Nautilus with Captain Nemo, it feels nice to get a spa manicure and pedicure from Pam Hunter at Talk of the Town. She takes as much pride in her work as Captain Nemo does in his submarine. Hunter, who has 20 years of experience, is typically swamped with customers who demand her soft scrubs, marine

Even the hardest workers need a good manicure now and then—it’s bad for the nails to be fiddling about with ancient machinery in subterranean London. So when a time traveler visits the future, it’s only fitting that she would bring Paradise Nails and Spa with her to handle makeovers. To convince owner Lucy Nguyen about such a job prospect, however, she’d better set up an appointment; Paradise Nails and Spa is always bustling with happy customers who yearn for perfection in their manicures and pedicures. —HH

Merrill Gardens

Who ever said retirement had to be boring? Why can’t your golden years be more like a party? That idea is what’s cemented Merrill Gardens into a regular winner for Best Place for Senior Living. “We have independent living, dementia care, and hospice,” said General Manager Linda Hardy. “We have answered all the objections that people usually have with assisted living.” What’s the answer? There’s not just one. Consider anytime dining, large apartments with their own washers and dryers, walk-in closets, bridge, Wii bowling, regular live entertainment, a heated pool, bingo, a billiard room, a bistro, premiere cook-

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Need to catch some “rays” at off times—like mid-morning or in the evening? Tanners Cove can help you out. What the sun can’t do for you, Tanners Cove can. At the South Broadway salon, 19 “beds” (which look like elongated clam shells) are lined with long

tubes (similar to fluorescent bulbs) that emit the magic light. Strip naked and slide into one of the “beds” for less than 10 minutes, and—voila!—a tan is in the making. Manager Lindsey Winters advises that clients who want tans for special events start the process at least four weeks before the big day. —HAT

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Our office is honored to once again be selected as

Best Chiropractor THANKS FOR VOTING US #1 RESTAURANT IN SANTA MARIA

We are proud that so many of you recognize the important role that Chiropractic plays in assisting you with your health goals.

REVA, SHAWN, BECKY, JENNIFER, DR. BEAU and DR. BILL THANK YOU FOR TRUSTING OUR OFFICE WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE NEEDS FOR THE PAST 27 YEARS.

Pierce Chiropractic & Sports Injury Center (805) 922-1721

714 S Broadway, Santa Maria, CA (805) 925-9226

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 â&#x20AC;˘

Thank You To Our Loyal Members

1335 S. Bradley Rd., Santa Maria (805) 928-9887

Best Place to Buy Tires

Best Place to Buy Eyewear

Best Place to Buy/Repair Computer

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

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THANK YOU THEATRE FANS!

PETER PAN

HAIRSPRAY

NOV 4 – DEC 23, 2010 | MARIAN THEATRE, SANTA MARIA

JUNE16 – JULY 3 | MARIAN THEATRE, SANTA MARIA JULY 8 – 31 | SOLVANG FESTIVAL THEATER

Musical Based on the Play by James M. Barrie Lyrics by Carolyn Leigh Music by Mark Charlap

ALFRED HITCHCOCK’S

THE 39 STEPS

Adapted by Patrick Barlow From the novel by John Buchan From the movie of Alfred Hitchcock FEB 10 – MAR 6, 2011 | MARIAN THEATRE, SANTA MARIA JUNE 16 – JULY 3 | SOLVANG FESTIVAL THEATER

INTERPLAY:

THE STAGE BETWEEN MARCH11-20 | SEVERSON THEATRE, SANTA MARIA

JANE AUSTEN’S

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

Adapted for the Stage by Joseph Hanreddy and J.R. Sullivan

APRIL 14 – MAY 8 | MARIAN THEATRE, SANTA MARIA

Book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan Music and Lyrics by Marc Shaiman Lyrics by Scott Wittman

SEASON 2010-11

THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA By William Shakespeare

JULY 15 – 31 | MARIAN THEATRE, SANTA MARIA AUG 5 – 21 | SOLVANG FESTIVAL THEATER

MY FAIRYTALE

AMERICAN PREMIERE!

A MUSICAL ABOUT HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN Original idea and concept by FLEMMING ENEVOLD Music and Lyrics by STEPHEN SCHWARTZ Book by Phillip LaZebnik AUG 12-19 | MARIAN THEATRE, SANTA MARIA AUG 26 – SEP 25 | SOLVANG FESTIVAL THEATER

CAROLINE, OR CHANGE Music by Jeanine Tesori Book and Lyrics by Tony Kushner

AUG 26 – SEP 18 | MARIAN THEATRE, SANTA MARIA

Photo: Kitty Balay Genge, Melinda Parrett, Michael Jenkinson, Curtains, 2010

DATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Tickets go on sale in the Fall. Sign up to receive the PCPA E-News for more information at www.pcpa.org

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

ing, exercise programs, two jacuzzis, a message therapist, a chiropractor, two libraries, card game clubs, day trips, shuttle service, and month-to-month leases. “Our residents don’t have to be here,” Hardy said. “They stay because they want to.” —JP

runner up:

download registration easily on the website, an while you’re there, take a look a parent’s rights and other activities. —RS

runner up: Little Shining Star

Magnolia

 Best  Day Care YMCA

3400 Skyway Drive, Santa Maria

ORCUTT

Elena Regala 210 S. Palisade Drive, suite 202, Santa Maria Dr. Regala has been an MD for 45 years and attained her medical degree at Manila’s University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, in 1965 in the Philippines. She did residencies at Kings County Hospital Center and Staten Island University Hospital and is affiliated with Marian Medical Center. Word is that she puts her young patients first and communicates well with parents to help them better understand their children’s conditions and treatments. It’s difficult when little ones are ill or hurt—especially the smallest who can’t always explain exactly what they’re

Healer

Dr. Herb Kandel

225 E. Mill St., Santa Maria Dr. Herb Kandel practices acupuncture in one of the oldest houses in the city of Santa Maria—a carpenterstyle Victorian house built in 1896. The house was originally owned by one of Santa Maria’s founding families, and customers feel its significance and antiquity are in-

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FEELIN’ GOOD

to all our loyal customers for voting us One of the Best Landscapers. We couldn’t have done it without you.

Cavazos & Sons Landscaping Maintenance

Orcutt

George Robertson

 Best  Alternative

Thank You

Santa Maria Sun readers for voting ORCUTT 76 as the best place to ﬁll up!

100 E. Clark Ave

runner up:

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THANK YOU!

937-5340

feeling. Dr. Regala speaks children’s language, English, Spanish, and Tagalog. In our book, in all four languages she is awesome, the best, numero uno, and pangunahin! —AW

N’

At the YMCA, staffers encourage learning in a fun way. What’s great is that a baby can come here and then move up to the toddler class, then to the pre-school class, and then to the afterschool program. Want to start a young one on the path? The “Stepping Stones” infant/toddler classes are held at the government building on Centerpointe Parkway. Considering such a nurturing environment, the toddlers can get ready for kindergarten—and beyond. You can

 Best  Pediatrician

FEELIN’ GOOD continued from 56

• • • • •

Monthly Maintenance Irrigation Systems Sprinkler Repair Sod Installation Clean-Ups

925-7963 or 621-4282 25 yrs exp. Licensed & Insured

continued on

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

FEELIN’ GOOD continued from

PHoto BY SteVe e. miLLer

Fogh. “Many tutors have specializations that include algebra and geometry.” Tutors also help prepare high school students for SAT and ACT college entrance exams. They work with students’ teachers to ensure success at school and keep parents informed of their children’s progress. Math is the most problematic subject, followed by reading comprehension, context, vocabulary, and writing. All work is done in house, and there’s no homework—a plus for students who want an A plus! —AW

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strumental in ensuring a curative visit. And not only is Dr. Kandel an acupuncturist, the practice cured him of ailments when he was younger. “During my travels, I had got an illness that Western medicine couldn’t cure,” he explained, “but Chinese medicines did.” —HH

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 Best  Tutor Tutoring Club

runner up:

Kumon

1130 E. Clark Ave., Santa Maria Not all students can be a Sherlock Holmes, but if they’re struggling with a school subject, there is help. Tutoring Club targets problem areas via a diagnostic test. “We have credentialed teachers who work with students in grades K through 12,” said local director Cody

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atmoSpher e —a nd hiS friendly dog Certainly helpS .

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805 938.5869 4869 S. Bradley Rd #107 Orcutt - (behind 7-11)

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 â&#x20AC;˘

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

which

o u r courageous pair, having defeated the no-account and

returned

the valuable objets d’art to their proper eras, enjoys a ticker-tape pa r a d e

Community

on my MIND

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

Thank You Santa MariaValley!          

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64â&#x20AC;&#x2030;

â&#x20AC;˘ Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

From all of us at all Calderon Tires locations,

THANK YOU

to all of our customers for voting us one of the BEST.

322 S. Blosser Rd. Santa Maria, Ca. (805) 925-5757

2750 Broad St. San Luis Obispo, Ca. (805) 781-8473

Best Place To Buy Tires

1245 W. Main St. Santa Maria, Ca. (805) 925-5889

310 W.Betteravia Rd. Santa Maria, Ca. (805) 928-1601

1101 W. Ocean Ave. Lompoc, Ca. (805) 736-9459

Santa Maria Valley Humane Society Visit www.smvhs.org for info & to view pictures of pets available for adoption.

(805) 349-3435 www.smvhs.org

Best Place to Get a Pet All of these animals are spayed or neutered, current on vaccinations & microchipped Low cost spay & neuter services open to public

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

In 2004, California Fresh had just sliced into its first sandwich in Santa Maria. Six years later, the local shop has designs to expand along the Central Coast and eventually nationwide. “My wife and I were tired of having to go to two different places for the foods we want to eat,” said California Fresh owner Chad Jordan. “And now here we are.” The shop’s popularity is certainly rising—check out their wins in multiple categories this year. “It’s all about customers and employees,” Jordan said. “If you make it about yourself, it shows. Treat people the way you want to be treated.” —CS

runner up:

Tamo Homan

 Best  Builder Halsell Builders

3130 Skyway Dr., suite 601, Santa Maria When your steam engine parts are taking up all the space in your home, it might be time to think about expanding. No remodeling project is too big for Halsell Builders. “One of our bestknown projects is the Central Coast Women’s Health Care Facility in Santa Maria,” said Joe Halsell, owner of Halsell Builders. “I’ve been doing this for 12 years, and things are getting better and better.” Since the economy crashed, other businesses went down, but not Halsell Builders. “We’ve actually doubled in numbers,” Halsell said. “We have more clients, and our projects are bigger. People come back because they know they can trust us.” —CS

runner up:

AJ Diani

1133 W. Cook, Santa Maria I was floored when I heard that a carpet store got this award. “It’s fun working here, and we take pride in our work!” said

 Best  Teacher Judy Dal Porto

Judy Dal Porto wears many different hats while working at Allan Hancock College. For 29 years, she served as a teacher and coordinator of the college’s Parent Participation Program. This year, she embarked on a new adventure: teaching 4-year-olds in the Children’s Center and lab school and coordinating student and faculty interaction in the Early Childhood Studies program. Dal Porto schedules department classes, works with the faculty to write grants, and even lends her expertise when it’s time to crunch numbers for the yearly budget. Still, Dal Porto said her favorite hat to wear is that of a teacher: “The biggest excitement we had this year in the Pre-K room was

runner up: Josh Ostini, Pioneer Valley High School

 Best  Man or Woman Behind

U MM NI

Carpet One Valley Flooring

Boys and Girls Club

 Best  Place to Work

runner up:

Chad Jordan, California Fresh

owner-manager Eric Ferrari. “We are all PHoto By steVe e. miller close, like family, and enjoy helping our extended family—our customers.” The store employs 15 people, including bookkeeper Carol for 15 years and sales professionals Hector for 13 and Jerry for eight years. Sandi Simkins worked 36 years, until her passing in 2009. “We installed flooring in the new Santa Maria Library and did neat things like making dragonflies and MAKING A DIFFERENCE flowers,” Ferrari A llA n H A ncock c ollege ’s J udy dA l P orto said proudly. “It ( center , in cAse you w er e wonder ing), w in n er was challenging of B est t eAcHer , H As Been inter Acting w itH and shows how PA r ents A nd k ids for A lmost tHr ee decA des . dedicated our innow, sHe H A ndles tHe lA B scHool A nd stallers are. We eA r ly cHildHood studies . Chapman University—and came up laid the vinyl in through the ranks in the Santa Maria City Hall in 1969, we became an Police Department, having served as and it looks just as good now as it did outdoor adminispolice sergeant, police lieutenant, and then.” —AW tration site.” This means the Children’s police commander before landing at the Center has been upgraded to serve as top of the police pyramid. He knows a more natural learning space and play the territory and is well equipped to go environment for the children. Funded after the bad guys and the dangerous by the Orfalea Foundation, the outdoor dudes. Easily identifiable by his dapper program is designed to reconnect chilmustache, the police chief has an affindren with nature. “Instead of a metal or ity for and appreciation of Hummers; plastic balance beam, we went and got he’s arranged all sorts of awesome, a log off of my family ranch,” she expopular Hummer rides and packages plained. “Our center is a great place to for area nonprofits. —HAT —AA Allan Hancock College come visit.”

 Best  Entrepreneur

M Y MI

the Badge

Santa Maria Police Chief Dan Macagni

222 E. Cook, Santa Maria

Police Chief Dan Macagni is a hometown guy. This crime stopper graduated from local schools— including Allan Hancock College and

runner up:

Clyde George

 Best  Local

News Source

KCOY 12

1211 W. McCoy Lane, Santa Maria They enter your home each evening before dinner, each morning at breakfast, and, come to think of it, at lunchtime, too. But these meal-time guests don’t bring their appetites; instead, they deliver the latest breaking news in the community. Kevin Harlan, KCOY general manager, said his team delivers 6 1/2 hours of news a day—not includ-

COMMUNITY continued on 69

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 â&#x20AC;˘

• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Better than all the Rest! 1133 W. Cook 925-8718 Mon-Fri 9am-6pm · Sat 10am-5pm

www.carpetonesantamaria.com

Best Flooring Store

We promise you’ll love the way your new floor looks, or we’ll replace it-FREE!†

Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010 •

runner up: Santa Maria Sun

 Best 

Community Watchdog

M Y MI

 Best  Local Youth

Andy Caldwell AM 1440

Sports Team

Every Thursday, I talk about the Santa Maria Sun on Andy Caldwell’s talk show at 4:30 p.m. And every week he makes connections between stories, calls out government employees and rabble rousers alike, says what’s on his mind, and blasts everything from wastes of taxpayer funds and perceived wastes of taxpayer funds to political plans with national—even global—consequences. He’s not afraid to deliver unvarnished opinion on a myriad subjects, and he does it all in front of—and for—a listening audience. Whether you agree with him or not, you have to admit: Andy Caldwell is watching. Plus, he partners with the runner up

KSBY

little easier,” Garcia said. “We went on a roll and kept on rolling.” Led by pitcher and top slugger Trevor Garcia, catcher Martin Uribe, shortstop Christopher Cervantes, and speedy first baseman Jacob Gonzalez, the team posted a 21-0 record during the regular season and has gone 40-3 in league play over the past two years. —JT

UN MM I

runner up:

in this category to keep tabs on all of Northern Santa Barbara County—and beyond. —RM

ing Saturdays and Sundays. It’s not hard, considering KCOY’s reporting team. “We have the best people, the best anchors, we make it a point to dig up good news stories, and it’s our goal every day to deliver the best news in our area,” Harlan said. And with so much face time in the area, KCOY’s team of reporters has come to have a strong connection with the community. “Our anchors host a lot of events; we sponsor a lot of events,” he

said. “We’re really involved with the community.” —SC

COMMUNITY continued from 65

Southside Nationals The Nationals of Santa Maria’s Southside Little League have little experience being on the losing end. In fact, the team’s 8-7 loss to rival Northside in the first round of the city playoffs was the only time they came up short in 2010. Coached by manager Eddie Garcia and composed of players from ages 8 to 11, the Nationals had all opposing teams in the Southside Minors division gunning for No. 1. “I had some good kids who could play the game and some kids who were willing to learn to play the game, so that made my job a

runner up:

Guadalupe Xplosion

 Best Kids’  After-School Program

YMCA

3400 Skyway Drive, Santa Maria Located at several school sites, the YMCA’s after-school program

COMMUNITY continued on 70

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• Best of Santa M aria Valley 2010

Boys and Girls Club

 Best  Community Nonprofit

Boys and Girls Club

runner up: Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum

 Best 

Place to

Volunteer

901 N. Railroad Ave., Santa Maria 800 W. Main, Guadalupe

400 E. Church, Santa Maria

The Santa Maria area can boast plenty of benevolent nonprofit organizations, but

The Center’s 311 volunteers are invaluable, running errands, check-

Marian Medical Center

THANK YOU SANTA MARIA FOR VOTING US BEST MARGARITA!

3301 Terminal Drive Santa Maria (805) 928-4088

MMUN

ITY

runner up:

ing on new mothers, admitting and discharging patients, and keeping families apprised and comforted in the su rger y waiting room. They work in Mission Services, the cafeteria, gift shops, and the child care center, reading to children and rubbing little backs for naps. Joanne Szumiski, director of Volunteer Services, said local do-gooders donate more than 71,000 hours of work each year and represent all ages and walks of life. One volunteer has been around for 23 years, and gift shop helper Jean MacKenzie was recently recognized with a 17,000-hour pin. Szumiski said volunteers gain a sense of giving back to community and receiving double fold. They certainly would make old H.G. Well! —AW

represents a place for children to do homework and fun activities that encourage a healthy lifestyle, such as eating nutritiously and being active. “They sometimes play kick ball,” said Sports Director Lisa Niedrauer. “I have joined in the game!” she continued, her voice full of enthusiasm. The organization doesn’t stop with the school year, either. During the summer, the YMCA offers different camps, such as “Lego Camp” and “Princess Camp” for even more fun. —RS

Sun readers put the Boys and Girls Club at the top. The group has been providing local youth with a fun and safe environment since 1966. “It’s a safe, positive place for kids to come,” said Executive Director Bill Libbon, who’s been in his position for 10 years, “and they get the freedom to choose where they want to participate.” The Boys and Girls Club provides sports, education, computer, teamwork, leadership, and arts and crafts programs. It also offers camps when school lets out. “There can never be enough programs for the kids,” Libbon said. “They are our future.” —JP

COMMUNITY continued from 69

M Y MI

runner up:

Boys and Girls Club

 Best 

Take-It-to-the-Man

Local

Activist

Andy Caldwell AM 1440

You know those Tea Parties that popped up across the country over the last year or two? Andy Caldwell helped with local ones. How about coordinating response to local and national issues of importance? He does that, too, mostly through his talk show on AM 1440, which recently expanded its coverage area. Now listeners in Santa Barbara County, San Luis Obispo County, and farther afield can hear him encourage people to write letters, show up to rallies, wake up, and pay attention. Andy’s the director of the Coalition of Labor, Agriculture, and Business, too, and that name’s attached to a certain bulldog ad that’s been appearing in the paper lately. The outspoken Andy doesn’t pull his punches. —RM

runner up: Bill Libbon