An annual Central Coast event that helps veterans in need has been canceled this year because of a retirement in the event's leadership. This year would have been the 14th annual Veterans Stand Down event in Santa Maria, which connects veterans with donated clothing, medical and social services, and other support.
It was started by Fifth District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino's office, but he's retiring this year. Lavagnino said he's talking to Good Samaritan Services about assuming responsibilities for the event.
"We're working on a memorandum of understanding to make it official that all of the property and all of the donations would go to Good Samaritan. They've committed they will carry it forward."