EASTER

March 23 is Easter Sunday and that Bunny is sure to hide plenty of eggs. Our inside sources have revealed where some of those hiding places will be, and we are sharing them with you. So go out and have a fun, hare-raising eggsperience!

Help brighten the Easter season for children in need. Charlene's Closet, 122 W. El Camino, Santa Maria, is accepting donations, of Easter baskets, Easter grass, candy, chocolate bunnies, jelly Beans, candy eggs, Peeps and stuffed bunnies or animals. Contents or completed baskets are welcomed. Donations will be accepted 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Friday, March 21. Info: 928-8999.

The first annual Easter Holiday Community Dinner, hosted by the Santa Maria Police Officers' Association and the northern Santa Barbara county chapter of the National Latino Peace Officers' Association to say “Thank You” to the community, is 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, at the Veteran's Memorial Building, 313 W. Tunnell St., Santa Maria. The first 500 guests to arrive will be served a meal of barbecue chicken, vegetables, salad, beans, bread, dessert and beverages, free of charge.

The Great Egg Hunt, for infants to age 12, is 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 22, at Elings Park Softball field, Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Road, Santa Barbara. Bring your own basket and hunt for eggs filled with treats and surprises; one of three golden eggs contains a certificate good for a free week of summer camp at Elings Park. Free admission; parking $5. Info: 569-5611 or www.elingspark.org.

The annual Easter Egg Hunt, for ages infant to 12, hosted by the Lompoc Parks, Recreation and Urban Forestry Department, is 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 22, at River Park in the American Legion Area. The Shrine Clowns will entertain, Campfire USA has games for a small fee, the Mom's Club of Lompoc will paint faces, and the Lompoc Kiwanis will sell hot dogs, sodas, chips and sweets. The Easter Bunny will visit for photo opps, so bring a camera and a basket for the Egg Hunt, which is free. Info: 875-8092.

All aboard for the 16th annual “Easter Bunny Express,” 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 22, at the South Coast Railroad Museum, 300 N. Los Carneros Road, Goleta. Ride a miniature train, munch on treats, meat Mr. E. Bunny himself and get prizes and souvenirs. Hot sandwiches and refreshments will also be available for purchase. In case it rains on March 22, the event will be held on at the same time on Saturday, March 29. Tickets: $4 per person. Info: 964-3540.

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The Easter Festival at City Church, 640 S. Frontage Road, Nipomo, begins at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 22, with games, booths, prizes and a bounce house. An Easter Egg Hunt begins at 2 p.m. Free. Info: 929-8990.

TIMES TO MEET

Democratic Club of Santa Maria Valley - 7 p.m., Thursday, March 20, Bamboo Garden Restaurant, 800 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Eddie Taylor, CEO of Northern Santa Barbara County United Way, will speak. No-host social at 5:30 p.m. Reservations are required for an optional dinner at 6 p.m. Info and to RSVP: 349-2708.

The Lompoc Valley Republican Club - 6 p.m. Thursday, March 20, for a no-host social; buffet dinner at 6:30 p.m., Embassy Suites, 1117 North “H” St. Former Solvang mayor and candidate for Third District Supervisor, David Smyser, is the guest speaker. Cost: $18, inclusive. RSVP by Tuesday, March 18. Info: June Shockency at 733-0109 or e-mail jshockency@verizon.net.

The Retired Public Employee's Association (RPEA) No. 59 - 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 18, Atria Maria del Sol, 1450 E. Main St., Santa Maria. Info: Mike at 937-1814.

American Legion Post 534 - 8 to 11 a.m. first Sunday each month for post breakfast, 145 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt. Info: 937-0651.

Debtors Anonymous 12-step program - 6 to 7 p.m. Monday (except holidays), First United Methodist Church, 275 Halcyon R, Arroyo Grande. Recovery, serenity, and prosperity are within your reach, no matter how bad things seem right now. Info: 546-1190 or www.centralcoastda.org.

Hesperian Lodge No. 264 - 7 p.m. Monday, 700 Lakeview Drive, Santa Maria. Info: 937-7453.

League of Women Voters, Santa Maria Valley - 3 to 5 p.m. the first Monday each month for a board meeting, Community Room at Rabobank, corner of Broadway and Battles. Info: Jo Beck at 937-2292.

Military Parents of the Central Coast - 6:30 p.m., first Monday each month (second Monday if on a holiday), San Luis Obispo United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks St., San Luis Obispo. Info: Janice at 783-4418.

Santa Maria Valley Mothers of Twins - 10:30 a.m., first and third Monday each month at various parks. Info: 925-6605 or www.geocities.com/smvtwins.

Central Coast Veterans Support Group - 6:30 p.m., second Monday each month, San Luis Obispo United Methodist Church, 1515 Fredericks St., San Luis Obispo. Info: Janice at 783-4418.

Korean War Veterans - 6 p.m., second Monday each month, Veteran's Memorial Building, 509 N. Pine, Santa Maria. Info: 928-3631.

Altrusa International Inc. of the Central Coast - noon, second and fourth Monday each month, Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info: 925-7430.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)- 9 to 11 a.m., second and fourth Monday each month, First Christian Church, 1550 S. College Drive, Santa Maria. Info: 925-6605.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) - 6:30 p.m., second and fourth Monday each month, Pacific Christian Church, 3435 Santa Maria Way, Santa Maria. If you have a child from infancy to kindergarten, please join us for fun, food, crafts, speakers and more. Child care is provided. Info: 934-3491 or www.pacificchristian.net.

Central Coast Manufactured Home Owners Alliance - noon for lunch, meeting at 1 p.m., third Monday each month, International House of Pancakes (IHOP), 202 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria. Info: Hank Hoysak at 934-0720.

Parent Advisory Council - noon to 2 p.m., third Monday each month, Community Action Commission Regional Office, 201 W. Chapel St., Santa Maria. Meetings are for parents and caregivers of children with behavioral, medical, mental, physical, emotional and learning differences. Info: 331-9734.

Santa Maria Bridge Club - 12:45 p.m. Monday and Friday, and 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Foxenwood Clubhouse, 1087 Clubhouse Drive, Santa Maria. Info: 929-0113 or www.santamariabridgeclub.com.

Business Network International (BNI) - 8 a.m. Tuesday, IHOP Restaurant, 202 Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria, for Santa Maria area businesses to increase word-of-mouth marketing and exchange qualified business referrals. Interested professionals are invited to attend a breakfast meeting as the chapter's guest. Info: 937-6153.

Business Contacts Unlimited (BCU) - 7:15 a.m. Tuesday, Bakers Square, 1841 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info: 925-0097.

Rotary Club of Santa Maria - 12:10 p.m. Tuesday, Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info: 922-6657.

The Santa Maria Lawn Bowling Club - 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, 420 S. McClelland, near the library, for bowling, socializing and free lessons for all ages and ability levels. Equipment is provided; wear flat-soled shoes. Info: 349-9838 or 922-9688.

Santa Maria Toastmasters Club 89 - 7 p.m., Tuesday, Prudential California Realty, 204 E. Enos St., Santa Maria. Info: 934-5835.

The Word Wizards Writer's Group, - 7 p.m. Tuesday, Casa Grande Mobile Estates Clubhouse, 519 W. Taylor St., Santa Maria. Info: Ed at 925-0098 or e-mail taotutt@aol.com.

Red Hatters Ladies' Fun Tennis - Tuesdays and Thursdays, weather permitting. Info, time and location: Dot at 928-8266 or Nancy at 928-2760.

The Foresters - 7 p.m., first Tuesday each month, 1185 Camino Caballo, Nipomo. Info: Janice at 929-6599.

PFLAG (Parents, Family and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) - 6 to 8 p.m., first Tuesday each month, Pacific Pride Foundation, 819 W. Church St., Santa Maria. Info: 929-0273 or charlieuu@frontier.net.

Santa Maria Valley Singles Club for 50 Plus - 7 p.m., first Tuesday each month, Union Plaza Social Room, 120 N. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info: 925-4740.

American Legion Post 56 - 7 p.m., second Tuesday each month, Veterans Memorial Building, 501 N. Pine St., Santa Maria. Info: 925-2257.

American Legion Post 136 - 7 p.m., second Tuesday each month, 417 Orchard St., Arroyo Grande. Info: 489-6412 or 481-9444.

Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 499 - 7 p.m., second Tuesday each month, Golden West Air Terminal, Santa Maria Airport, 3409 Corsair Circle. Info: 928-9431 or e-mail eaachapter499@yahoo.com.

Five Cities Women's Network - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., second Tuesday each month at Mission Inn of Pismo Beach, 601 James Way, Pismo Beach. Guests are welcome. Cost: $19. Info: 458-1910 or www.fivecitieswomensnetwork.com.

Kiwanis Club of Santa Maria Valley - 6 p.m., second and fourth Tuesday each month, Cool Hand Luke's Restaurant, 1321 S. Nicholson (just east of Highway 101 at Stowell Road), Santa Maria. Info: 928-4108 or 441-8525.

Orcutt Mineral Society Inc. - 7 p.m., second Tuesday each month, Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 E. Park Ave., Santa Maria. Info: 929-3788.

Quota International of Santa Maria - 6 p.m., second and fourth Tuesday each month, Carrows Restaurant, 1635 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info: Susan at 928-5222.

Santa Maria Men's Club - 8:30 a.m. for breakfast, second Tuesday each month, Atria Maria Del Sol, 1405 E. Main St., Santa Maria. Info: 349-1179 or 937-1499.

Santa Maria Valley Sportsman's Association - 7:30 p.m., second Tuesday each month, Atkinson Community Building, 1000 N. Railroad Ave., Santa Maria. Info: 934-2340.

SCORE - 1 to 2 p.m., second Tuesday each month, CET building, 509 W. Morrison Ave., Santa Maria. Info: 925-0097.

VFW POST 10243 Orcutt - 7 to 8 p.m., second Tuesday each month, 1600 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt. Info: 937-7775.

MOMS Club of Santa Maria - 9:30 a.m., fourth Tuesday each month, Maramonte Park. The club is a support group for stay-at-home mothers with a variety of activities such as play groups, activity groups, Mom's night out and park days. Info: Lindsay at 929-2306 or Shelly at 928-8806.

Retired Active Men (RAMS) of Santa Maria - 8:30 a.m., fourth Tuesday each month for fun and fellowship, Maria Del Sol, 1405 E. Main St., Santa Maria. All men age 54 and older, and retired from active employment, are welcome. Info: 934-4394 or 934-2627.

Santa Maria 4-Wheelers - 7:30 p.m., fourth Tuesday each month at various locations in Santa Maria. Info: 928-7532.

Chamber Network Breakfast Club - 7 to 9 a.m., last Tuesday each month, Black Lake Golf Resort banquet room, 1490 Golf Course Lane, Nipomo. Info: 929-1583.

Five Cities Cribbage Club - 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, International House of Pancakes, 202 S. Nicholson Ave., Santa Maria. Info: 739-0875.

Kiwanis Club of Orcutt - 7 to 8 a.m. for breakfast Wednesday, HomeTown Buffet, 1431 S. Bradley Road, Santa Maria. Info: 937-5924 or 934-3885.

Le Cercle Francais - 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Pacific Crepes, 705 Anacapa St., Santa Barbara. For information about this free French conversation group, visit www.frenchfestival.com/convr.html.

The Rotorama Rotary Club of Lompoc - 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Embassy Suites, 1117 North “H” St., Lompoc.

Santa Maria Noontimers Lions Club - 12:10 p.m. for lunch Wednesday, Baker's Square Restaurant, 1841 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info: 937-6103.

The All-America City Quilter Guild - 7 p.m., first Wednesday each month, Atria Maria Del Sol, 1405 E. Main St., Santa Maria. Info: 928-2154.

Business Enriched Network - 8 a.m., first and third Wednesday each month, First American Building at Miller and Betteravia, Santa Maria. Info: e-mail GenePerez@GMSLoans.Net.

Disabled American Veterans - noon for lunch, first Wednesday each month, Veterans Memorial Building, 313 W. Tunnell St., Santa Maria. Info: 345-0402.

The International Order of Job's Daughters invites girls ages 10 to 20 to join them. Members meet at the Masonic Lodge for activities, friendship and to learn leadership skills at 7 p.m., first Wednesday each month; and 10 a.m., third Saturday each month, 700 E. Lakeview Road, Santa Maria. Info and membership: 937-0838.

Orcutt Lions Club - 7 p.m., first and third Wednesday each month, Orcutt Lions Den, 126 S. Broadway, Orcutt. Info: 937-6195.

Rancho de Guadalupe Historical Society - 6 p.m., first Wednesday each month, Historical Society Museum, 1005 Guadalupe, Guadalupe. Info: 343-2527.

Rancho Maria Men's Golf Club - 6 p.m., first Wednesday each month, Golf Shop, Rancho Maria Golf Course, 1950 State Hwy. 1, Santa Maria. Info: 937-2019.

Santa Maria Camera Club - 7:30 p.m., first and third Wednesday each month, Merrill Gardens at Santa Maria, 1220 N. Suey Road, Santa Maria. Info: 459-4364.

Santa Maria Orchid Society - 7 p.m., first Wednesday each month, Veteran's Memorial Building, 509 N. Pine St., Santa Maria. Info: Lisa at 739-1934.

Santa Maria Sunrise Lions Club - 7:15 a.m., first and third Wednesday each month, Bakers Square Restaurant, 1841 S. Broadway, Santa Maria: Info: Jim at 934-3881.

Santa Maria Valley Lions Club - 6:30 p.m., first and third Wednesday for dinner, International House of Pancakes, 202 S. Nicholson, Santa Maria. Info: 937-4363.

Santa Maria Women's Network - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch, first Wednesday each month, Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. The network of men and women from the business and private sector promotes the professional and personal development of its members and provides information, mutual support and assistance in the overall advancement of women. Lunch: $20, members $18. Info and to RSVP: 929-7489 or e-mail reservation@womens-network.com.

Tri Valley Radio Control Modelers Club - 7 p.m., first Wednesday each month, Veteran's Memorial Building, Santa Maria. The public is welcome. Info: Ken Van Corbach at 268-4975.

Altrusa International Inc. of Santa Maria - 7 p.m., second Wednesday each month, United Way conference room, 1660 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info: 352-0026 or 937-4071.

American Legion Post 534 - 6 p.m. second Wednesday each month, 145 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt. Info: 937-0651.

Central Coast Branch of the International Geranium Society - 7 p.m., second Wednesday each month, Central Coast Senior Center, 1580 Railroad St., Oceano. Info: 937-3122.

Destroyer Sailors - 10 a.m., second Wednesday each month, Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall, 200 E. Battles Road, Santa Maria. Info: 922-5634 or e-mail hdolcini@aol.com.

Newcomer's Club of Santa Maria Valley - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch at various locations, second Wednesday each month; 10 to 11:30 a.m. for coffee, fourth Wednesday each month, Knollwood Village Clubhouse, 4012 S. Bradley Road, Orcutt. Info: 937-3303.

Sunshine Seniors - 11:30 a.m. second Wednesday each month, St. Mary's Parish Hall, 302 S. Miller St., Santa Maria, for ages 50 plus to perform community service projects, hold fundraising, and enjoy group travel and monthly get-togethers, food, fun and fellowship. Info: Nellie at 934-3896.

Questers, Chapter 1351 - 10:30 a.m., third Wednesday each month at various locations. This fun antique and collectibles group serves Santa Maria, Nipomo and the Five Cities area. In addition to lectures and field trips, members support restoration and preservation of historical landmarks. New members are welcome. Info: 489-1230 or www.Questers1944.org.

San Luis Obispo Women's Network - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., third Wednesday each month, Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo. Info and RSVP: 546-3727 or e-mail reserve@womensslo.org.

Santa Maria Coin Club - 7 p.m., third Wednesday each month, Oak Knolls Haven, 4845 S. Bradley Road, Orcutt. Info: 937-3158.

The Santa Maria Chapter California Women for Agriculture - noon for lunch, fourth Wednesday each month, the Radisson Hotel 3455 Skyway Drive, Santa Maria. Info: 929-7470.

Santa Maria Human Resources Association - 11:30 a.m. for lunch, fourth Wednesday each month, Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info and RSVP: 614-9535, Ext. 205, or e-mail kgile@www.sojournservicesinc.org.

ACBL Sanctioned Duplicate Bridge - 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Women's Community Club, 211 Vernon Ave., Arroyo Grande. Info: 929-3613.

Chess Club - 6:30 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Nazarene Church, 3396 Johnson Ave., San Luis Obispo. Info: 544-0717.

First American Title Pinta Toastmasters AM Club - 7 to 8:30 a.m. Thursday, First American Title Community Room, 421 E. Betteravia Road, Santa Maria. Learn to speak publicly with confidence and support with Toastmasters. Info: Deanna Wheeler at 922-5861.

Noontime Toastmasters Club - Noon to 1:15 p.m. Thursday, Bakers Square, 1841 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info: 886-6343.

Retired Men's Coffee Cabinet - 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Madonna Inn, 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo. Info: 773-1672 or e-mail dmmorris@calpoly.edu.

Salvation Army Women's Home League Fellowship - 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Salvation Army, 402 S. Miller, Santa Maria. Info: 349-2421.

Santa Maria Elks Lodge No. 1538 - 8 p.m. Thursday, Elks Lodge, 1309 N. Bradley Road, Santa Maria. Info: 937-2304.

Santa Maria Noontime Kiwanis - noon Thursday, Minerva Club, corner of Lincoln and Boone, Santa Maria. Info: 928-7300.

The Santa Maria Valley Woodcarvers - Thursday and alternate Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various locations. Instruction is available. To join, call Pat at 928-3864.

Central Coast Corvette Club - 7 p.m. first Thursday each month, Bakers Square Restaurant and Pie Shop, 1841 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Meetings are open to owners and enthusiasts. Info: Mike at 934-3948 or www.centralcoastcorvettes.com.

National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) - 12:30 p.m., first Thursday each month, Atria Maria Del Sol, 1405 E. Main St., Santa Maria. Membership is open to all retired and active civil service employees. Come enjoy lunch with friends and interesting speakers on current civic issues. Info: Chuck at 928-2955 or Bob at 925-5410.

Optimist Club of Santa Maria - 6:30 p.m., first Thursday each month, Edwards Community Center, 809 Fremont St., and 7 a.m., third Thursday each month, Coffee And Company, 245 Town Center West, Santa Maria. Info: Joann at 354-3755 or Joe at 922-8502.

Senior Computerrooters - 10 to 11:30 a.m. first Thursday of each month at Ramona Garden Park, 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach. Info: 489-6230 or e-mail elisehenderson@charter.net.

Vapor Trail Vettes - 7 p.m., first Thursday each month, Home Motors Chevrolet, 1207 E. Main St., Santa Maria; and 5 p.m., third Saturday each month, Roadhouse Grill, 1423 S. Bradley Road, Santa Maria. Info: 925-7711 or visit www.vaportrailvettes.com.

Catholic Daughters of the Americas No. 1079 - 7 p.m., second Thursday each month, St. Mary's Catholic Church, Parish Hall, 302 S. Miller, Santa Maria. Info: 922-2404.

Central Coast Weavers - 9:30 a.m., second Thursday each month, Willow Creek Community Room, 3500 Bullock Lane, San Luis Obispo. Info: 481-3357.

50-Plus Club - 11:30 a.m., second Thursday each month, St. Louis de Montfort Church, Parish Hall, 5095 Harp Road, Orcutt. RSVP: 937-3119.

Friends of the Orcutt Library - 4:30 p.m., second Thursday each month, Sunny Hills Mobile Home Estate Clubhouse, 1650 E. Clark Ave., Orcutt. Info: 934-5061.

Santa Maria Model A Ford Club - 7 p.m., second Thursday each month, Edwards Community Center at 809 Panther Drive, Santa Maria. Info: 922-3151 or e-mail ronbo55@aol.com.

Santa Maria Valley Women's Club welcomes men and women to play “Hand and Foot,” a variation of the card game Canasta, noon to 4 p.m., second and fourth Thursday each month, Unity Chapel of Light, 1165 Stubblefield Road, Orcutt. Info: 937-5673.

The Royal Scottish Society of San Luis Obispo - 7 p.m., third Thursday each month, Dairy Creek Golf Course, 2990 Dairy Creek Road, San Luis Obispo (opposite Cuesta College). Info: 239-9569.

Santa Maria Valley Republicans - 6 p.m., third Thursday each month, Atria Maria Del Sol, 1405 E. Main St., Santa Maria. The public is also welcome to hear speakers and to discuss national and local issues of concern to all voters. Info: Chuck Mertz at 928-2955 or e-mail mertzcw@comcast.net.

Special Needs Network Parent Support Group - 9 a.m., third Thursday each month, Coffee Diem, 505 S. McClelland, Santa Maria, for parents of people with special needs such as mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy and epilepsy, to share ideas, ask questions and find solutions. Info: 937-8756.

Reformers Unanimous - 7 p.m. Fridays, First Baptist Church, 2970 Santa Maria Way, Santa Maria. This is a faith-based addiction program that provides help for all strongholds, stubborn habits and addictions. Info: the assistant pastor at 937-8405.

California Congress of Republicans - 11:30 a.m. first Friday each month, Atria Maria Del Sol, 1405 E. Main St., Santa Maria, for lunch and guest speakers. Cost: $12, includes beverage. Info and to RSVP: 937-2381.

FoMoCo Performance Owners Association and Mustang SVO Owners Association - 7 p.m., first Friday each month, Museum of Flight, 3015 Airpark Drive, Santa Maria. Info: 934-9970.

Central Coast Nonprofit Networking - 9 to 10 a.m., third Friday each month, 120 E. Jones, Santa Maria. Info: 928-2503 or e-mail MFabula@nscsb.org.

City of Lompoc/County Homeless Coalition - noon for brown bag lunch, third Friday each month, Board of Supervisors conference room, 401 E. Cypress Ave., Lompoc. Info: 737-7700.

Gerontology Study Group - noon to 1 p.m. for lunch, fourth Friday each month, Maria Del Sol, 1405 E. Main St., Santa Maria. Info and RSVP: 925-8000.

Business Men's Fellowship - 8:30 a.m., first Saturday each month, Bakers Square, 1841 S. Broadway, Santa Maria. Info: 937-6837.

California Poppy Decorative Artists - 9:30 a.m., first Saturday each month, Exploration Station, 867 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach. Info: 925-7632 or 534-1316.

Satellite Amateur Radio Club - 1 p.m., first Saturday each month, Building 23100, Vandenberg AFB. No gate pass needed. Info: 937-7804 or 733-4416.

The San Luis Obispo Chapter of USSVI, submarine veterans - 1:30 p.m., second Saturday each month, Five Cities Elks Lodge, 410 Air Park Drive, Oceano. All interested in submarine veterans affairs are welcome. Lunch and beverages are available at the lodge. Info: Dan Mann at 929-5828 or e-mail dandjmann@charter.net.

TAKE A CLASS

Learn the Language of Success is hosted by the San Luis Obispo Creative and Marketing Alliance at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 18, at Aspect Studio, 755 Fiero Lane, Suite 110, San Luis Obispo. Dr. Tom Sant will share research and examples from his new book, “The Language of Success.” Free. Info: 595-1363.

A Foster Care and Adoption Outreach and Information Session is 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 18, at the Department of Social Services, 1086 Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande. The session is open to anyone in the community interested in becoming a foster parent or in adoption. Refreshments will be served. Free. Info: Gina Condrich at 781-1705.

An Astrology Workshop is offered by SLO Astrologers, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 18, in the Coast National Bank Community Room, 500 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo. Various topics are covered each month. Free. Info: 546-3420 or e-mail sloastrologers@aol.com.

Learn about “Raw Food and Women's Health ” with Chef Olga Purington at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 20, at New Frontiers Natural Marketplace, 1984 Old Mission Drive, Solvang. She will cover women's health issues, including candida, osteoporosis, hormones and soy in the diet, plus prepare one of her delicious recipes, and offer samples. Free. Info: 693-1746 or adnf99@yahoo.com.

Register for Hancock College Fast Track/Term 4 courses through March 27 at any Hancock College location during regular office hours. More than 160 Fast Track/Term 4 classes begin March 25 or later at all college locations. Classes last eight weeks or less; many take only one or two days. The complete Fast Track/Term 4 schedule is online at www.hancockcollege.edu. Info: (866) DIAL AHC, Ext. 3248.

Braille Institute classes - Independent Living Skills classes cover cooking, sensory awareness and home management, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Atria Maria Del Sol, 1405 E. Main St., Santa Maria. Info: 682-6222 or 462-1225.

California Cash for College Workshops are being offered at various Central Coast locations. High school seniors, current college students and adults age 18 or older may be awarded up to $9,700 a year for college by applying for a Cal Grant. This is money for college and does not have to be repaid. Students can attend any workshop to receive assistance. Free. Info: Hancock College Central Coast Cal-SOAP Office at (866) DIAL AHC, Ext. 3710.

The California Scholastic Opportunity and Access Program, sponsored by the California Student Aid Commission, provides tutoring for students grades 7 to 12, from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, and 4 to 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday, Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center, 600 S. McClelland, Santa Maria. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 354.

The Santa Maria Lawn Bowling Club offers free lessons at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, 420 S. McClelland, near the library. All ages and ability levels are welcome and equipment is provided. Wear flat-soled shoes. You may also arrange free lessons by appointment. Info: 349-9838 or 922-9688.

FIND SUPPORT

Compassionate Friends, Central Coast Chapter - 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 18, Church of Christ, 795 E. Foster Road, Santa Maria. This group provides friendship and support to those who have experienced the death of a child, grandchild or sibling. Info: 922-5222.

A Grief Share Support Group meets at 10:30 a.m. Sundays at Santa Maria Foursquare Church, 709 N. Curryer St., Room 7, to help those grieving due to a loss through death, divorce, miscarriage or serious illness. Child care is provided for ages infant to 6th grade. Info: 922-8445.

Good Grief is a bereavement support group that meets 1:30 to 3 p.m. Thursdays at Luis OASIS Senior Center, 420 Soares Ave. Free. Info: 937-9750.

HOSPICE OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY:

The following support group meetings are open free of charge to the community at 1304 Pacific St., San Luis Obispo, unless otherwise noted. Please arrive 15 minutes early if it's your first meeting. Info: 544-2266 or www.hospiceslo.org.

Family and Friends Support Group: offers information and support for anyone coping with a friend's or family member's serious illness. Call for times and to preregistration.

Grief Support Drop-In Group: for anyone grieving the death of someone important to them, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Room 107, County Offices, 1086 Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande.

Parkinson's Caregiver Drop-In Support Group: for anyone providing care to a family member or friend with Parkinson's, 1 to 2:30 p.m., the third Wednesday each month.

Pet Loss Drop-In Support Group: for anyone anticipating the death or grieving the loss of an animal companion, 5:30 to 7 p.m. the first Tuesday each month.

Suicide Bereavement Support Group: for anyone coping with a suicide. Call for times and to preregistration.

Wellness Support Group: for anyone whose quality of life is being impacted by their serious illness. Call for times and to preregistration.

Widow/Widower Drop-In Support Groups: for anyone grieving the death of a spouse or life partner, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays.

GIVE SOME BLOOD

Saving a life is as easy as pie, especially pie from Marie Callender's! Donate blood during United Blood Services' Spring Blood Drive, through April 12, and receive a certificate for a free whole pie from Marie Callender's with their thanks. It's the blood on the shelves that saves lives and only volunteer blood donors, like you, can give it. You must be older than 17 and weigh at least 110 pounds to give blood. Appointments appreciated, walk-ins welcome. Info: www.bloodhero.com.

San Luis Obispo Blood Center, 4119 Broad St. in the Creekside Center, 543-4290.

Santa Barbara Blood Center, 902 Laguna, 965-7037.

Santa Maria Blood Center, 1770 S. Broadway, 928-2546.

HELP RAISE FUNDS

No green eggs and ham here. The First Methodist Men are flappin' jacks for their monthly pancake breakfast, 8 to 10:30 a.m. Sunday, March 16, at First United Methodist Church, 275 N. Halcyon Road, Arroyo Grande. Enjoy pancakes, eggs, sausage, fruit, OJ and coffee for $4, children eat for $2. Info: 481-2692 or www.WorshipWeekly.com.

Have an Italian St. Paddy's Day at the 12th Annual St. Patrick's Day Spaghetti Dinner and Treasures Sale, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, March 16, at the American Legion Hall, 1025 Guadalupe St., Guadalupe. Cost: $6.50 for pasta, salad, bread and dessert; beverages cost 50 cents. Proceeds benefit the Rancho de Guadalupe Historical Society and Museum. Info: 343-1223.

You'll have smilin' Irish eyes when you dine on corned beef and cabbage served by Charley's Angels at noon Sunday, March 16, at Unity Chapel of Light, 1165 Stubblefield Road, Orcutt. Cost: $6. Info: 937-3025.

The leprechauns at the Santa Maria Valley Kiwanis Club are serving a corned beef and cabbage fundraiser dinner, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 16, at the Minami Community Center, 600 W. Enos, Santa Maria. Cost: $8. Info: Katherine at 928-4108 or 925-1631.

Basta O'Pasta! A lasagna dinner is served up by The Fraternal Order of Eagles 1745, 668 S. College Drive, Santa Maria, 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, March 16, to support Operation Santa's Helpers. Cost: $10. Info: e-mail cherylt73@comcast.net.

A no-limit Texas Hold'em Poker Tournament and raffle drawing for a 2008 Lexus RX400h Hybrid is sponsored by the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County, 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday, March 16, at the Women's Rockwood Club. Other prizes include a 2008 Vespa LX and a Sony 52-inch XBR4 LCD television. All proceeds help the foundation ensure that low-income persons and seniors have access to the justice system and secure safe shelter, income and protection for victims of domestic violence and elder abuse. Raffle tickets cost $100 each, 3 for $275, 6 for $500. Info or to sign up for the tournament: Jim Cordes at 965-6800, Ext. 216 or e-mail jim@jamescordes.com.

It's Girl Scout Cookie Time! Girl Scouts of the Central Coast are selling cookies at local booths on weekends to March 23. Teaching young girls financial literacy and offering a “taste of home” to U.S. military troops overseas is the dual focus of this year's cookie sale. As part of the Girl Scout partnership with Operation Gratitude, cookies can be purchased and sent, along with a personal greeting, to U.S. military troops overseas. It's a nice way to earn your Brownie points. Info: Sandra at 925-1952 or www.girlscoutscc.org.

Golfers, “Tee Up” in support of Marian Services. The 19th Annual Leland “Butch” Simas and Felix Fly, M.D. Memorial Golf Tournament is Monday, March 31, at the Santa Maria Country Club. The shotgun tee off is at 10 a.m. The entry fee includes lunch, plus a dinner reception after the tournament, as well as a chance to compete for prizes, including a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab. Entry fee: $225 per golfer, proceeds benefit hospital programs and services. Info: 739-3595.