Santa Ynez Valley Star April 2016

Page 1

March 2016 • Volume 1, Number 2

www.santaynezvalleystar.com

SY Valley residents and tourists may soon zip across the hills by Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com Stuart Gildred is following in his father’s footsteps by creating a business that will bring people together and get them moving, literally zipping across the hills of the Santa Ynez Valley. He expects Sky Ranch Ziplines and Adventure Park to be open within the next year. The project was recently approved by the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission after three years of effort. “My dad instilled a love of the Santa Ynez Valley into my family. He was passionate about horses and the hills, and I know he would be so proud of what we are trying to

a

Look! There’s more inside…

Celebrating happy birthdays Valley offers unique birthday party choices

Page 7

An ‘Extraordinary’ story Local artist adds author to resume

Page 19

accomplish,” he said. Gildred was granted permission to build five separate zip lines, which guests will be able to ride tandem on two separate runs ranging from 420 feet to 2,100 feet long. The zip line and adventure park will use 40 of the 1,186-acre ranch he owns off Highway 246, south of the Santa Ynez River between Solvang and Buellton. “We got the idea to build our own zip line after taking my sons to the one at Lake Lopez. We had such a fun time bonding and spending time away from the electronics that it inspired me. I had been looking for a good use of my property that would bring the community together, and I found it,” he said. Gildred said he started investigating what it

would take to put a zip-lining and ropes course on his property, since it’s the first one in Santa Barbara County. His ranch once belonged to Slick Gardner, known locally for being an Auto Racing Club of America driver turned wild-horse rescuer and then animal abuser, who was eventually evicted from the ranch. Gildred has owned the property for a decade now after spending most of his career working for wine giants such as Gallo and Kendall Jackson before returning to the family business of real estate. “Even though we were in real estate, my dad was always a professional cowboy in my Contributed eyes,” he said. Stu Gildred modeled his zipline after a similar one at Vista

o CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Lago Adventure Park at Lake Lopez, but said his will be even bigger and better.

A mother’s love turns memories into a business Bittles Boutique. Bardessono started selling her teddy bears, and now rabbits and other news@santaynezvalleystar.com handmade items, on Etsy, an online retailer ost young children have a favorite focusing on handmade and homemade animal or blanket they take with items. them everywhere. For Kelly BardAround Easter 2014, Bardessono reessono’s daughter Mackenzie, it is a bunny ceived a special request from a local woman rabbit named Rose. who had lost her husband. She wanted “As a parent one of the worst feelings Bardessono to take her husband’s clothes is when a favorite possession gets lost or and turn them into “memory bears” for her damaged because your child is beyond three young children. consolable. That’s when I decided I “It was so touching to me, and I just knew should learn how to sew to fix Rose one CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 day or be able to replicate her,” Bardessono said. Photo by Raiza Giorgi She started making teddy bears to Kelly Bardessono works on a teddy bear for her shop Bittles practice and sold a few to friends until Boutique. Bardessono learned to sew after her daughter lost her stuffed bunny rabbit. word-of-mouth popularity led her to start

by Raiza Giorgi

M

o


2 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

star news NEWS ROUNDUP

John Doan to perform at Bethania Lutheran

Photo by Raiza Giorgi Live Oak Lanes owner Carol Lesher Peterson, center, and her family won unanimous approval at the latest appeal at the Buellton City Council meeting in January. Pictured are the Lesher Peterson’s with their contractors.

Bowling center construction expected to begin this year Live Oak Lanes clears Buellton City Council appeal hearing by Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com The last hurdle has yet to be crossed for Live Oak Lanes owner Carol Lesher Peterson and her family, even though their project of building a bowling alley and family entertainment center won unanimous approval at the latest appeal at the Buellton City Council meeting in January. “We are excited to get approval, but now the hard work comes,” Lesher Peterson said. Now that the project has been approved, she can submit building plans and begin construction perhaps within the next eight months, according to Mark Henning of MHIC Construction Inc. The project will consist of a 16-lane bowling alley, arcade, bar, party rooms, outdoor batting cages and bocce ball courts as well as a warehouse. During a four-hour hearing in January, the Buellton City Council heard much discussion from both sides as the Petersons and scores of supporters defended their project against objections from neighbor Terravant Wine Company and from Matt Stoecker, whose family owns a parcel south of the

project. Lew Eisaguirre, president of Terravant, said he would support the bowling and entertainment center if his objections were met. “We are in support of the project and even have our bowling team shirts ready for a bowling competition,” Eisaguirre said. “Will you be the head pin?” Lesher Peterson retorted. Tensions between the neighbors have escalated in the last three years as Terravant has voiced concerns over environmental issues and property rights. City staff members said the environmental concerns will be mitigated through extensive plan checks during the construction process, such as retaining an onsite monitor specifically to move any red-legged frogs that are found. Staff members have also assured the City Council that the city’s stormwater basin has capacity for many projects along Industrial Way. The project’s developers have already done extensive noise, lighting and engineering studies, as the land was previously disturbed by farming and development nearby. City staff has also imposed 12 environmental conditions to further reduce impacts, such as requiring all lighting to be shielded and aimed away from the river. Eisaguirre has had contentions with an 18-

o CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

STAFF

CONTACT US:

Raiza Giorgi ~ Publisher & Editor news@santaynezvalleystar.com

Santa Ynez Valley Star LLC P.O. Box 1594 Solvang, CA 93464

Shana DeLeon ~ Director of Advertising ads@santaynezvalleystar.com

805-350-8786

Dave Bemis ~ Copy Editor Aimée Reinhart Avery ~ Graphic Design/Pagination http://www.santaynezvalleystar.com

©2016 Santa Ynez Valley Star LLC No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied or distributed without the authorization of the publisher.

Emmy nominee John Doan, a master harpguitarist and storyteller, will perform at 7 p.m. Sunday, March 20, at Bethania Lutheran Church, 603 Atterdag Road in Solvang. Admission is a suggested donation of $15. For concert information and reservations call 805-688-4637, email bethania. lutheran@verizon.net, or go to the Bethania Lutheran Church website at www.bethania lutheran.net.

Locals win division in 180-mile race

Contributed Jacob Hanberg and his co-rider Luke Ensign won first place in their class Jan. 30 during the 180-mile Duel in the Desert off-road race at Slash X Ranch in Barstow.

Public invited to staging Buellton brewery of ‘Manchester Girl’ St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal opens 6th taproom Church invites the public, especially teens,

to attend performances of Sue Turner-Cray’s award-winning “Manchester Girl” at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 3-5. The performance offers an opportunity for area youth as well as adults to encounter the challenges endured by the lead character, Sara, who struggles to regain her sense of self and define her authentic life. Each evening, the play will offer a talk-back session for the audience with Sue Turner-Cray to engage the issues presented in the gritty production. Admission is $25 for adults and free for youth (ages 14-15 with parent, ages 16 and up on their own) with school ID cards. Advance tickets are on sale at the Arts Outreach office, 2353 Hollister Street, Suite A, in Los Olivos or by calling 688-9533. Doors at St. Mark’s will open at 6:30 p.m. for first-come, first-seated admission. Tickets will be available at the door for each performance at the church, 2901 Nojoqui Avenue in downtown Los Olivos.

Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company, based in Buellton, has been busy the last couple years opening new taprooms along the Central Coast. Most recently they opened their sixth taproom in Westlake Village in December. Now open in the new Shoppes at Westlake Village, the taproom will seat 200 and boasts a 15-barrel brewhouse. A family-friendly menu includes fare ranging from salads to burgers and sandwiches as well as a kid’s menu. The Westlake Village taproom joins five other taprooms in Buellton, Los Olivos, Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and Arroyo Grande. For more information about Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company, their taprooms and beers, visit www.FigMtnBrew.com.

EPA honors casino as ‘WasteWise Partner’

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has named the Chumash Casino Resort its 2015 WasteWise Tribal Partner of the Year, one of 15 businesses and organizations honored nationwide in January. Parents and children are invited to celeThe award is in recognition of the casino brate Easter and the coming of spring with resort’s leadership in waste prevention and the 27th annual Easter Eggstravaganza and diversion, as measured in 2014. Toyota Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 26, at River Motor North America, Kohl’s Department View Park in Buellton. Stores, the city of Fort Lauderdale and The free community event is organized Colorado State University were among the by Solvang Parks and Recreation and Buell- other award winners. ton Recreation. Kids up to 12 years old can “We’re honored that the EPA has come and search for their special finds in recognized Chumash Casino Resort for the valley’s biggest egg hunt, starting at 10 our efforts to reduce waste. Our facilities a.m. sharp. department has made great strides in recent After the hunt there will be fun activities, years, and its goal to make Chumash Casino games, Easter crafts and a special opportuResort a zero-waste facility by 2019 is nity to take pictures with Peter Cottontail. within reach,” said Tribal Chairman Vincent Also returning this year is the second Armenta of the Santa Ynez Band of Chuannual Adult Egg Hunt directly following mash Indians. the kids’ hunt. Organizers are looking for A decade ago, the Chumash Casino sponsors for this event with prizes, product, Resort averaged 380,000 pounds of trash monetary donations or other ideas. each month and recycled just 3 percent of it. There will be four designated kids’ areas Now, according to Custodial Services Manfor egg hunting (for kids 0-3, 4-6, 7-9, and ager Mark Funkhouser, the resort generates 10-12 years old). For more information or 300,000 pounds per month and recycles sponsorship opportunities, call Solvang at nearly two-thirds of it. 688-7529 or Buellton at 688-1086.

Easter Eggstravaganza scheduled for March 26


s

March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 3

Real. Good. Food. We own and operate our own certified organic farm.

All-natural deli, featuring soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees, baked goods, and organic salad bar.

CLIP AND REDEEM

No artificial sweeteners, colors, flavors, preservatives; growth hormones or antibiotics. PLU #500

Your $25 purchase Valid through 2-29-16

Hwy. 246 & Alamo Pintado • Solvang Mon.-Sat. 8-8, Sun. 8-7 • 805.693.1746 www.NewFrontiersMarket.com

We’re all about your quality of life


4 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

Manage stress through proper breathing

Five-Five-Five Breather Technique Step 1

Exhale all the air out of your lungs.

Step 2

by Cori Lassahn

Inhale through your nose for a count of five.

Step 3

Contributing Writer

As a yoga teacher here in the Santa Ynez Valley, I have seen my fair share of stressedout students. From long commutes to Santa Barbara, to always being “on” with their smartphones, to the never-ending to-do lists, people are more stressed than ever. There are a myriad of ways to rid the body of stress, but the simplest, easiest, and most inexpensive way to do it is by changing the way you breathe. On average, humans take around 20,000 breaths a day. And yet most of us are doing it wrong. If you ever watch a newborn baby breathe you will notice its belly is moving up and down with each breath. As we age, and get more stressed, the body creates a new pattern of breathing from the chest. Chest breathing sends the adrenal glands the signal that the body¬¬ is in fight-or-flight mode, which in turn cranks out the stress hormone cortisol. When cortisol is pumping through your body for an extended period, it results in a state of chronic stress. This leads to high blood pressure, lowered immunity, and

Hold your breath for a count of five. Drop your chin to your chest if you have trouble holding the air.

Step 4

Slowly exhale through your nose for a count of five.

Step 5

Repeat for 2 to 4 minutes depending on much time you have. This will counter the effects of stress by slowing your heart rate and lowering blood pressure. increased belly fat. By changing the way you breathe, you can put a stop to the stress response in the body. The next time you feel stressed, try this breathing exercise and turn on your body’s relaxation response. Cori Lassahn, the owner of Vineyard Yoga SYV, and has been teaching yoga for 15 years. She teaches yoga, meditation, and mindfulness to help her students find emotional, physical, and mental equilibrium. Visit www.vineyardyogasyv.com to learn more.

Whether you have a 3:00 pm ankle sprain or 3:00 am stomach pain...

Our doors are ALWAYS open

business Festivals are fun, and not just for visitors

Annual ‘Taste of Solvang’ set to begin March 16 by Tracy Farhad

Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau As a “local,” you may cringe when thinking about all the festivals and special events held around Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley. Yes, they have an impact on traffic, both vehicle and pedestrian, and they can create crowds in your favorite shops, restaurants and attractions. But all of those impacts are really benefits for all of us “locals.” Solvang is well known worldwide for its hospitality and for its iconic festivals and events. From the Greyhound Fest in February, the Solvang Century charity bike ride in March, the Rancheros Visitadores horseback parade to the Mission each May; Wheels ‘n’ Windmills Car Show in August; Danish Days (celebrating its 80th anniversary this September) and Julefest in December, there really is something for all ages and attitudes. The Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau hosted the first-ever Taste of Solvang Food & Wine Festival in 1993. Why then and why now? It still comes down to this: creating positive economic impacts, especially in March, which historically is a quieter time in our local hospitality industry. Festivals create more visitors and increased spending that result in more jobs and tax revenues to fund needed products and services. You, your family and friends are invited to have some tasty fun from Wednesday, March 16, through Sunday, March 20, during the 24th annual Taste of Solvang. You don’t want to miss any of the savory flavors and tantalizing opportunities this year. There are some “traditional” events that have happened since the beginning of the Festival in 1993.

This year, on Friday night, March 18 at the Vets Hall, you can “Sip and Savor” at a reception featuring wines, beers and beverages combined with sweet and savory bites from local bakers and chefs. On Saturday, March 19, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event originally known as the Walking Smorgasbord and now named “The Tasting Trail” will include dozens of taste stops around the village. On Saturday and Sunday afternoon, the Beer & Wine Walk has extended hours this year so participants can enjoy more than 14 stops. Remember, there are also the popular Farmers Market Chef Walks on Wednesday, March 16, and the festive Bubbles, Brews & Brunch on Sunday morning, March 20. In addition, more new events have been added this year including a Blind Tasting Challenge at Wandering Dog Wine Bar on Thursday, March 17; The Art of Smørrebrød and Æbleskiver cooking class on Saturday morning; and on Saturday evening, the Buttonwood Farm Winemaker Dinner is a locally-sourced, five-course gourmet meal by Chef Conrad Gonzales of Valle Fresh Catering paired with award-winning winemaker Karen Steinwachs’ vintages. You can purchase your Taste of Solvang ticket packages or individual-event “a la carte” tickets in advance, which is wise because these palate-pleasing events are always sold out. Check out all the details at www.solvangusa.com/taste-of-solvang2016 See you in Solvang soon at one of our local events. Tracy Farhad is the executive director of the Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau. For more information on local events, stop by the Solvang Visitors Center located at 1639 Copenhagen Drive, or call 805-688-6144 or visit www.SolvangUSA. com

CATHERINE STREEGAN, DMD Shaping Smiles With A Gentle Touch

Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital’s emergency-trained physicians and staff provide easily accessible care. Learn more at cottagehealth.org/syvch

Please visit us for a complimentary exam. “It is more noble to give yourself completely to one individual than to labor diligently for the salvation of the masses. ~ Dag Hammarskjold 2027 Village Ln, Ste. 201 • Solvang, CA 93463 • 805-686-2492 • Fax 805-686-2495 • www.DrCathy-Dentist.com


s Voting Porter for supervisor

March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 5

postal deliveries

Dear Editor: The Santa Ynez Valley has produced some of the most remarkable people I have encountered in a lifetime. Some are quietly enjoying the Shangri-La while others are creatively productive in everything from art to agriculture. Politically removed from the centers of power in Santa Barbara, and often referred to as “the colonies” by North County Supervisor Peter Adam, the Valley is beginning to show muscularity even in this contentious arena. A rising star is Bruce Porter, who is a candidate for the Board of Supervisors. Porter has a resume that is the envy of everyone who knows him. A graduate of West Point with two master’s degrees from Stanford University and 24 years in the Army Corps of Engineers, where he led forces in the Kuwait oil spill cleanup, Porter also engendered environmental consciousness in the Army and was in charge of protection of the

desert tortoise over 1,000 square miles of So, wow, what a guy! the Mojave Desert. He commanded a 500It would be hard to match those accomman unit fighting wildfires in the Boise plishments and I give a hat’s off salute National Forest and then retired as a full to what I hope will be our next county colonel after serving as chief of staff for supervisor. the Army’s chief operations officer in the Lee Rosenberg Pentagon. Solvang After that breathtaking career, Porter became a financial advisor and partner in Letters to the editor should be the Edward Jones organization where he no more than 300 words in length. served for 14 years. If those accomplishments were not enough, Porter also is president of the Send letters to: SYV Union High School Board of EduRaiza Giorgi cation, former chair of the county chapter PO Box 1594, of the Red Cross, former chair of the SYV Solvang, CA 93464 Youth Coalition and former director of the Buellton Chamber of Commerce. or email to: As icing on his cake, he received editor@santaynezvalleystar.com recognition in Who’s Who in America in science and engineering. Please include your name and Porter is a 30-year resident of the address and phone number. Valley and has dedicated his life to public service.

CONSTRUCTION CorlettConstruction licensed, bonded, insured

Custom kitchens, baths, additions, interior, exterior alterations, door and window replacements. Outdoor living, patios, stamped concrete, outdoor kitchens, custom bbqs, fireplaces, trellises and more. design, plans and permits

www.corlettconstruction.com

Call Tom at 688-0785

MUSIC LESSONS Learn how to play music in a fun an easy way for any age. Music education of any kind should be fun and positive without pressure. Tompeet’s Institute of Music gives lessons in guitar, drums, bass and ukelele. Guitar and drum repair available.

ZIPLINE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 His father is most known in the valley for his charitable giving, co-founding the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation, and having the local YMCA building named after him. Gildred Sr. was also known for his cutting-horse breeding and training facility, Rancho Sierra Grande, in Santa Ynez, which he bought from Jimmy Stewart in 1975, according to a 1982 New York Times article. Gildred remembers hearing stories about the time his dad, former President Ronald Reagan and 400 of his closest friends were entertained with a concert by Merle Haggard. “I loved hearing his stories and I want to give the opportunity to have families tell stories about their time zip lining and climbing ropes,” he added. The low-impact project was approved to erect 20 large poles to hang the zip lines. In peak use, the zip lines and adventure park will be allowed no more than 80 customers a day. He had to get a special state permit, since cars will have to travel through the bed of the river, and multiple studies were done on the potential impacts on birds, frogs and other wildlife. “We are using existing roads and buildings for staging and safety orientations and the lands we are putting the poles on aren’t suitable for any other operation,” Gildred said. The benefits far outweigh the costs of a few more cars on the access road, which is already permitted for that many car trips, he added. “This is going to be so good for our kids that don’t have many things to do in the val-

LANES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

foot easement that he believes belongs to Terravant, however no lot-line adjustment was done when the parcel was split and part of it sold to the Lesher Petersons, according to their attorney. City staff said that matter is between the property owners. “We need somewhere besides wine tasting for our guests and the families that live here. It seems to me that Terravant failed to act and the property issue is sour grapes,”

Tompeet’s Institute of Music Call or text for information

(805)

708-3235

tompeetmusic@gmail.com

PAINTING Bill Brown Painting Contributed Stu Gildred knew he wanted to open an adventure park and zipline after spending quality time with his children and having so much fun.

ley, until the bowling alley (the pending Live Oak Lanes in Buellton) is built, which we are excited about, but this will be one more attraction to get kids outside and doing something positive,” he said. Gildred already operates Sky Ranch Fitness out of the Bacara Resort in Santa Barbara and is adding a branch to the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn in Los Olivos, where their guests

can take a multi-day fitness course combining health and wellness. “My dad left big shoes to fill, and I really want this zip line and adventure park to do just that. It will be a place where families, kids and groups can really just be outside and experience all the nature and beauty this valley has to offer and do something so unique and fun,” he said.

said Mike Hendrick, general manager of the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott in Buellton. Buellton Senior Center Director Pam Gnekow said the center supports the bowling center, which will give seniors a fun way to interact with the youth of the community. Representatives of Live Oak Lanes said they have been working with Terravant and have undergone multiple revisions to mitigate their concerns. However, they said, noting has been resolved and the delays

have cost thousands of dollars. “We even tried to sell the 18-foot parcel at market price to Terravant and they declined,” Lesher Peterson said. Lesher Peterson said she would be willing to work with Stoecker and his family to see what options they suggest for stormwater run-off, and when the council approved the project Eisaguirre immediately left the room. For updates on the project visit the bowling center’s Facebook page at www.facebook. com/LOLbowl.

Serving the SYV for 30 years, highly skilled for work in residential, commercial and industrial coatings. Specializing in interior/exterior painting, wood staining and lacquering. Can do color matching and special finishes (faux, venetian plaster, marbleizing and wood graining).

Call Bill at

805

448-6247 licensed, bonded, insured

YOUR AD HERE Make you business or service a star in the community! Email Shana DeLeon to find out how you too can be included in the Santa Ynez Valley Star Business & Service Directory

ads@SantaYnezValleyStar.com


6 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

A colonoscopy can save your life or rectum) is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, according Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control). The American Society for GastrointestiMarch is National Colorectal Cancer nal Endoscopy states that colorectal cancer Awareness Month, but even if you knew screening should begin at age 50. However, that it’s probably not something you’re if you have a family history of colon cancer discussing over your morning coffee. or polyps, or if you have other risk factors, However, colon health is of critical imscreening should begin sooner. A 2012 study portance, so here are some facts. published in the New England Journal of Over a lifetime, one in 18 people get colon Medicine showed the death rate from colon cancer. The good news? When detected cancer was reduced by 53 percent for patients through screening in patients that have no symptoms, it is highly curable. It is also one of who had a colonoscopy and had pre-cancerous the few cancers that can be prevented by iden- polyps removed. I really like those odds. In recognition of this important health tifying and removing pre-cancerous polyps. Colonoscopy is the most effective screen- issue, SYVCH, Cancer Center of Santa Barbara and Sansum Clinic are sponsoring ing test for diagnosing early colon cancer a free public program, “You Could Save as well as detecting and removing those pre-cancerous polyps. Colonoscopies can Your Life with a Colonoscopy” presented definitely save lives. I’ve seen it happen by Dr. Thomas V. Aguirre from 4 to 6 p.m. right here at Santa Ynez Valley Cottage on Thursday, March 24, at the hospital. Hospital (SYVCH) with friends, neighbors Those attending will have a chance to hear and families. the latest on colon cancer prevention and Among cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

by Denise Holmes

NAPS Throwing balls at a target is the oldest game known to mankind. The name “bocce” derives from the Latin “bottia,” meaning “boss.” The emperor Augustus made it into the game of statesmen.

Fast-growing bocce has ancient roots by Lee Rosenberg Contributing Writer

Bocce is often perceived as an old fogey’s game. After all, folks might say, how does it differ from that classic image of white-costumed elders playing lawn bowls, or, perhaps, even shuffleboard? Well, let’s get educated. Bocce is the fastest-growing sport in the United States. In every major city there are thousands of aficionados playing in fast-forming leagues. The American Bocce Federation lists tournaments all over the country. Europe, and places you’ve never heard of, also have intense tournaments. Throwing balls at a target is the oldest game known to mankind. Egyptians were having fun doing it 5,200 years ago with polished stones. The game went from Egypt to Rome. In fact, the name “bocce” derives from the Latin “bottia,” meaning “boss.” The emperor Augustus made it into the game of statesmen. Bocce even became a threat to nations because it took so much time away from archery and other military exercises. In 1576 the Republic of Venice condemned the sport and the Catholic Church stopped it because they considered it a form of gambling. About 10 years ago, I started a modest lit-

tle bocce league in the valley. Teams formed with names like The Wine Spirits, the SOBs (Sons of Bocce), and Bandeleros. Today, the Santa Ynez Bocce League has well over 300 players and 18 teams in one league. Other leagues are forming. It’s hard to walk down the street and not encounter a bocce player whom you know. The guiding principles of our original formation were socialization, good food and fine wine plus competitive play. From experience, I can safely say that when two local teams meet, they often consume more than 20 bottles of wine. Each team probably has about 14 players. Each player must bring a bottle of wine or be ostracized. Hosts who have courts prepare repasts of great variation and quality. But, to really see the advance of bocce, one has only to visit Campo de Bocce in Los Gatos or Livermore — huge facilities, with great food, wine, and eight or 10 courts indoors, plus several outdoors. Our SYV Bocce League is slowly progressing in that direction. The league also has developed a nonprofit spin-off to benefit organizations within the community. Check the website, syvbocce.com, for signups and other information about the league. Check the calendar and location of

o CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Certified Estate & Trust Specialist California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization

• Estate Planning & Review • Trusts • Probate Law

688-3939

• Conservatorship & Incapacity Matters • Business Law: Corporations, Partnerships, LLCs • Second Opinion & Updates • Complimentary Initial Appointments

www.LanaClarkLaw.com 1607 Mission Drive, Ste. 107 • Solvang

o

Offerings for young and old announced

W

elcome back, Santa Valley Star readers. Wasn’t the inaugural edition of this newspaper fabulous? After reading last month’s column, you already know that Arts Outreach provides amazing art opportunities to the children in the Valley, but why should the kids have all the fun? Shouldn’t the hard-working adults of the community also be able to let their inner artist out? In order to spread the artistic wealth, Arts Outreach is starting to expand to a new demographic: adults like you! This month, we began a six-week adult ceramics workshop taught by local artist and Arts Outreach instructor Ramona Clayton. The class has been met with resounding support, and why shouldn’t it? What’s not to love about ceramics, wine, and new friendships? If you missed this opportunity to let your inner creator out, fear not. Arts Outreach is planning a one-time, three-hour workshop in creative writing taught by local screenwriter and author Jerry DiPego. This event will be taking place on April 22 at St. Mark’s-in-theValley Episcopal Church in Los Olivos. Keep an eye out for more information posted on our

by Alice Mullin various social media sites You can follow Arts Outreach on various social media platforms: Facebook/Arts Outreach; Instagram (@artsoutreach); Twitter (@ArtsOutreach1). If there are any other classes you’d like to see added to our adult education roster, let us know. Now, back to talking about the kids. Coming up in March is APPLAUSE 2016. APPLAUSE is a young artists’ program that provides an opportunity for student artists grades 6-12 to submit their work for review in three categories - literary, visual, and performing arts.

o CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

BRENT & JEFF’S FLOORING Carpet • Vinyl • Hardwood Floors P.O. Box 278 3568 Sagunto Street, Suite F Santa Ynez, CA 93460 Brent McClurg Chris McClurg Owners

www.brentandjeffsflooring.com

Office (805)688-8289 Fax (805 688-9450 brent@brentandjeffsflooring.com chris@brentandjeffsflooring.com State Lic. #431092


March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 7

star lifestyle

Celebrating happy birthdays

Valley offers unique birthday party choices Star Staff Report

There are so many beautiful spots to have a child’s birthday party in the Santa Ynez Valley that we decided to compile a few of our top choices and highlight some unique ideas. • Ponies and Paints: Make your birthday party a little more exciting with adorable pony rides and face painting. The ponies are hand-led by experienced and congenial horse owners whose goal is to provide your child and guests with the safest, most enjoyable and memorable experience possible. They provide riding helmets and hold the children around the waist during the rides if their feet are unable to reach the stirrups. The ponies fit in most back-yards with very low impact on grass lawns. They take care of the setup and clean up after the ponies, if needed, at the party site and around the horse trailer. For large, high-energy parties and parties at public parks, they can set up a 20-foot round pen to keep the ponies contained and the children in line safely away from the ponies’ feet and legs. Face painting is offered as an addition to the pony rides or as an a la carte service. For more information and pricing log onto www.poniesandpaints.com. • The FarmStead: Just south of Buellton, the FarmStead offers visitors a gor-geous fenced picnic area and a chance for children to learn about farm animals. Kids can run around safely and help feed the animals leftovers from the field. The FarmStead is a certified organic produce farm where everything is picked fresh and delivered to their vintage barns for sale by honor system. During their Market Days, from Thursdays to Sundays, they have other goods available including homemade granola, olive oil, and honey. Everything they sell is either grown on the farm or within 25 miles. If you are interested in the Farmstead to your host your next event contact jade@farm steadca.com or log onto www.farmsteadca. com. • OstrichLand: Between Solvang and Buellton, this unique setting offers visi-tors guided tours and opportunities to feed these gigantic birds. You can think of OstrichLand as a zoo full of ostriches and emus for your enjoyment. Visitors are invited to feed the animals, or just stand back and enjoy the interactions and antics of these unbelievably large birds. They also sell ostrich meat, although their birds are not raised for meat. OstrichLand is open daily from 9 a.m. until dusk. Call 688-9696 to reserve a time for a tour. Visit www.ostrichlandusa.com for more information. • Go GeoCaching: There are many hidden treasures in the Santa Ynez Valley, take the kids on a real treasure hunt (although you have to put something of equal or greater value if

Photos by Rebecca Rivera Above, ponies are hand-led by Christina Barnes, left, and her assistant Sara Welby, whose goal is to provide children and guests with a safe, enjoyable and memorable experience. Below, Barnes poses with cowgirls and cowboys at a birthday party at Ponies and Paints. Left, cupcakes from Pattibakes are decorated with party favors from Tassel Twins ,a local handmade party favor company by Jessica Flora and Natasha Liso.

you take the one already placed for others to find). All you need is a GPS-enabled device and curious kids. Participants use a specific set of GPS co-ordinates to find the geocache hidden in the location. Log onto geocaching.com to create a free account and start the hunt! • Horseback Trail Riding: Nojoqui Horse Ranch can take small groups up to six people on horseback trail riding adventures into some of the most scenic views of the Santa Ynez Valley. Log onto nojoquihorseranch.com for more information. • Have a Movie Birthday Party at Parks Plaza Theatre: The small theatre in Buellton

offers private showings of either recently released movies or bring your own to enjoy with a few hundred of your closest friends. Contact Shawn Gran at shawnagran@aol. com. Parks Plaza is located at 515 McMurray Road, Buellton, CA. 93427 Follow them on Facebook at Parks Plaza Theatre and the web at parksplaza-theatre.com. • Host a Party at the Wildling Museum: The Wildling Museum has three floors and many spaces to rent– from the classroom which holds up to 32 people and can be rented for a few hours or all day. A very flexible space, it can be set up for a board retreat or as a classroom with media presentations. Across

the hall-way is a kitchenette so it is easy to bring in a lunch or snacks or make a pot of coffee for your group. The second floor gallery seats up to 58 and makes a wonderful film and lecture space. Chairs and media equipment are available, as is a sound system. Email or call Laura Carloni at 686-8315 to book your event. And know that when you have your event at the Wildling you are help-ing to support our mission to raise awareness of conservation of natural areas by celebrating them through art. • Pedicures at Spa Elan: Reserve a time to have a spa day for little girls where they have pedicures and treats. Call Tracy LeBard at 453-8711 or log onto spaelanbeauty.com .


8 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

jjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjj

Birth Announcements jjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjj Nellie Elizabeth Jones

Shoshana Elise Hahn Shoshana Elise Hahn was born Jan. 19 to Valley residents Kelly and Elizabeth (Liz) Hahn. Shoshana, 5 pounds, 2 ounces and 17 inches long, was deliverd at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital and is the Hahn’s first child. She is also the first grandchild for both sides of the family. Grandparents are Ginger Hahn, Chris and Tricia Hahn and Claudia Weinstein. The Hahns grew up in the Valley and graduated from Santa Ynez Valley Union High School in 2003 and 2006. They were married at a ranch in May 2014. They live in Buellton and look forward to raising their daughter in the community that they grew up in. Kelly is a firefighter for Santa Barbara County, and Liz works at Just Communities Central Coast.

Nellie Elizabeth Jones was born January 2 to Ashley and Adam Jones. Weighing 8 pounds 7 ounces and 21.5 inches long, she is the Jones’s first child, and the first grandchild of Barbara and Dennis Knecht of Buellton, and the 10th grandchild for Patricia and Charlie Jones of Bend, Ore. The Knecht family have resided in Santa Ynez Valley for 26 years. Ashley (Knecht) Jones graduated from Jonata School and Santa Ynez Valley Union High School in 2003. She met her husband, Adam Jones, in Seattle where she attended the University of Washington. The Joneses live in Chicago, Ill., and look forward to bringing their daughter home to the Valley to visit her grandparents.

Libraries march into spring events Contributed The Santa Barbara County Public Library System includes branches in Buellton, Solvang, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. Here are events scheduled for March as well as some continuing programs. For more details, go to www.sbplibrary.org and click on “Locations” for the branch library calendars.

Saturday, March 5

Solvang, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., quarterly book sale of new and used books, audios, movies, collector’s items and more.

Tuesday, March 8

Buellton, 1 p.m., TED Talk video, “We Need to Talk About an Injustice,” by Bryan Stevenson, followed by community discussion. This event is part of our “SB Reads” programming around “Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption,” by Bryan Stevenson. Stevenson talks about his involvement in the exoneration of several innocent people who had been sentenced to death and raises issues about the death penalty, bias in the jury system, and many related topics.

Saturday, March 12

Get your garden ready for

Buellton, 2-5 p.m., “SB Reads” Film Series showing of “The Hurricane.” Denzel Washington is Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a man whose dreams of winning the middleweight boxing title were destroyed when he was wrongfully arrested along with another man for the murders of three people in a New Jersey bar.

Wednesday, March 16

KELLOGG SOIL AMENDMENT SALE Buy 3, Get 1 Free Mix & Match

Great for in-ground planting of flowers, vegetables & herbs. Softens hard clay soil. Enriched with plant food & gypsum. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed! 2.0 Cubic Feet

Ideal for overseeding existing lawns. Enriched with starter fertilizer. Helps seed germinate fast. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed! 2.0 Cubic Feet

Great for in-ground planting of trees, shrubs, ground cover, roses & more. Mix with existing soil or use as a mulch. Fully composted with natural fertilizer. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed! 2.0 Cubic Feet

1665 MISSION DR. SOLVANG, CA.

688-4191

OPEN M-F 8AM TO 8PM SUN. 9-4

Solvang, 4 p.m., “Revolutionary Women,” a one-woman play with Darci Tucker of American Lives. This interactive three-character play, suitable for fourth grade to adults, explores the issues and events that led to the American Revolution and women’s contributions to the war effort.

Thursday, March 17

Solvang, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Family Game Time, a drop-in opportunity for family or friends to play board games.

Friday, March 18

Buellton, 2:30-5 p.m., Family Game Time, a drop-in opportunity for family or friends to play board games.

Saturday, March 19

Santa Ynez Library at Santa Ynez Historical Museum, 1-2 p.m., “Stories by the Stagecoach: My Diary,” a look at diaries of children in the American West of the 1840 and 1850s. Free for children 7-12 and their families. Every third Saturday a different historical novel for children is presented. After a reading and a craft, participants can explore the museum and the library next door.

Wednesday, March 23

Solvang, 10:30 a.m., “Music Together,” a participation program for parents and their babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Diane Byington of Solvang Conservatory shares songs, instrument play, rhythm chants and movement in a relaxed, playful setting. Caregiver participation required. Pre-registration guarantees a spot.

Y Check it out!

Continuing Events

Preschool Story Time: Buellton, 11 a.m. Mondays; Solvang, 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. Story LIBRARY time helps get LOCATIONS preschoolers ready to read while having fun Buellton Wiggly Story Time: Solvang, 10:30 a.m. 140 W. Highway 246, 688-3115, Wednesdays. Short stories, songs, rhymes, BuelltonLibrary@santabarbaraCA.gov and activities for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Solvang Tail-wagging Tutors: Buellton, 4:30-5:30 1745 Mission Drive ,688-4214, SolvangLibrary@santabarbaraCA.gov p.m. Wednesdays; Solvang, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Thursdays. Children practice reading skills Los Olivos by reading aloud to dogs, kindest, Grange Hall, 2374 Alamothe Pintado Ave. least judgmental listeners around.

Santa Ynez

3598 Sagunto St. LIBRARY LOCATIONS

Beautiful, Quiet & Charming in Los Olivos

Beautiful 1.22 acres with oak, olive, and banana trees. 3BD/2BA. Firelit family rm opens to kitchen and yard. Vaulted living rm, remodeled baths. Bocce ball court. Room for horses, 4-H. RV parking. www.2975FoxenCanyon.com

Deanna (DeeDee) Harwood | Realtor

(805) 325-1452

harwood.deanna@gmail.com • www.DeannaHarwood.com • CalBRE#: 00999839


March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 9

Artist, teacher finds her way through hard times

C

hristi Schaeffer and I met at the Network SYV’s Valentine’s Day mixer, which is perfect since I am writing this exactly one year later. One of the gifts I have been given since I started interviewing Ladies of the Valley is the gift of friendship. I interviewed Christi for a documentary a couple of months after meeting her and we have been friends ever since. Her open-hearted, honest, fun-loving nature is, to say the least, contagious. When you meet her you think, “I’ve got to be around this woman’s energy.” Her talent as an artist and teacher are a combination that you will want to experience firsthand. She describes her business, Gypsy Studios, as “a full-service art studio on wheels,” which is particularly well known for holding painting classes in local vineyards. Here are some questions and answers from a recent interview. LOV: How would you describe yourself? CS: I’m a lighthearted, friendly gal who loves to meet new people and hear their stories. I love to laugh, have Christi Schaeffer fun, drink good wine and eat good food. I seldom pass up the chance to experience a new thing or place. LOV: What do you like best about running Gypsy Studios? CS: I love what I do! My work incorporates all of my favorite things: art, people, nature and wine, and the bonus is that I love to teach. When the art and wine concepts started popping up, a light bulb went on for me about holding painting classes in the vineyard throughout the valley and for building a business around bringing art to the everyday person in a way that engaged all the senses. It is so rewarding to introduce others to painting, nature and the beauty of the valley … not to mention a glass of good wine. I feel extremely fortunate that all the pieces came together at a time that I had just returned to the valley and started painting again. At the end of a class or event, I love watching people light up when they step back and look at what they’ve created. LOV: When did you start painting? CS: I’ve been painting since I was able to

By Robbie Kaye hold a paintbrush and have been passionate about art ever since. I think we’re all creative, and I love to reunite people with their own creative process and hope to inspire and encourage them to have fun. Christi enjoys going on walks and drives around the valley. “It’s amazing here in the valley; you don’t even have to try to find beauty in nature, it’s all around, even on your way to the grocery store or the gas station.” Christi didn’t always feel that connection to the land, and she left the valley after graduating from high school. “Like most 18-year-olds, I wanted to leave the small-town environment. Ha! Now I’m back and very happy to be here.” LOV: Can you please describe a challenge you overcame? CS: It’s a long story of a wayward career journey, trying to exercise my creative talents, but something was always missing. I had been laid off from a job in Los Angeles and had to swallow my pride and move home with my parents when I was just turning 30. I’ve had so many different jobs and started different careers of the last decade or so, chasing interest after interest and I found myself seriously confused. That confusion coupled with a few hard knocks in my work life led me into a pretty deep depression. With the help of a therapist and some amazing friends, I was able to walk out of that dark place and reconnect with my soul’s longing for art, and creation. It was, honestly, exactly what I needed. I was intent on finding my purpose in life and during those months of soul-searching, I became determined that I could do this thing I was always afraid of — start a business. It was the fuel for Gypsy Studios. Her business has been beyond well received, and the roster of locations and wineries where she has held events includes Saarloos & Sons, Sanford, Global Gardens and Gainey, just to mention a few. You can’t miss her around the valley. Just look for the paint brushes “painted” on her white gypsy wagon. LOV: What advice would you share with

Bring in this ad & receive a 10% discount 240 E. Hwy. 246, Suite 109 • Buellton • 686-9582 www.pattibakes.com

Photo by Heidi Riehl Christi Schaeffer has become well known for her painting classes in local vineyards.

others about following their dreams? CS: You already have everything you need … you already know everything you need to know ... listen to your God-given intuition and believe that whatever you think is holding you back ... is a mere illusion. The only thing standing in your way is your own mind. One practical exercise that helped me immensely in starting my business (or getting the courage to do so) was an exercise a lifecoach friend of mine walked me through. It was a huge breakthrough for me. It went basically like this: Call to mind someone that you know (or know of) who is successful in the area that you want to be successful in. Now step into that role. Imagine you are that person for a moment. Then ask yourself (as the successful person) what you would tell yourself (someone just starting out) about what you need to do to get to the place they’re in now.

For me, the answer was so simple. It was just: You already know more than you think you do, and you’re fully capable of doing this. You just need to start doing it. It was only this veil of fear standing between me and my dreams. It was an illusion, nothing more. Pulling back that veil was as simple as believing that I could. That shift in my mindset was so empowering. LOV: What are two things that most people don’t know about you? CS: I used to ride horses and competed in the APHA World Show in Western Pleasure (11 and under), and I’m constantly singing ... and know the lyrics to just about every song. It’s weird. LOV: What books would you recommend that a good friend read for inspiration? CS: “A Million Miles in a Thousand Years:

o CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Mie’s Beads Formerly Kandra’s Beads

Mie Hartmann, Owner 1539 A Mission Drive

(805)

Solvang, CA 93463

686-8804

www.miesbeads.com

mie@miesbeads.com

Stop in and be Inspired!

Enjoy a large color selection of 100% cotton & flannel fabrics - all in a fun and funky setting!

Ask About Kids Classes & Camps Fabric • Patterns • Ribbon Notions • Books • Retreats

805-693-0174

252 East Hwy. 246, Unit A

Buellton, CA

Behind Jack in the Box & Adjacent to Steve’s Wheel & Tire

www.thecreationstation.com


education

10 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

LO School launches new foreign language program Star Staff Report Learning a foreign language at a young age has been proven to provide numerous benefits to school-aged children, such as improving cognitive abilities. It also correlates with higher academic achievement on standardized tests. For these reasons and more, the Los Olivos School Foundation launched the Middlebury Interactive language program at Los Olivos Elementary School on Feb. 8. “Research shows that language learning delivers significant benefits for young students, including increased creativity, cultural understanding and cognitive development,” said Chief Operating Officer Stacey Rainey of Middlebury Interactive Languages. “Learning languages at a younger age

is preferable for long-term retention. By learning a foreign language as a child, it actually makes it easier to learn languages as an adult,” said Jaime Dietenhofer, president of the Los Olivos School Foundation. Middlebury Interactive is an academic leader in digital language instruction for K-12 students with a suite of world language courses and a supplemental English Language Learner curriculum for grades 4-8. Its language programs are intended to prepare students with the skills and cultural understanding to compete in the 21st century global marketplace. Middlebury Interactive has adapted principles of Middlebury College’s world language curriculum, developed and refined over the past 100 years, and translated it

o CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Contributed

Moms soon learn how much help they need

I

t doesn’t take long for moms to realize we need help — and then that we need even more help than we first realized. They say “It takes a village to raise a child,” but after the past year when we picked up our family and moved to a hotel for three weeks in Santa Barbara, and then to our little house in the Santa Ynez Valley, a more accurate statement for me is, “It takes the Valley to raise a mom.” When I moved from Monterey to Phoenix 13 years ago, I felt overwhelmed with loneliness. It took a solid six months before I had made “acquaintance friends,” a year before I had a handful of “kind of friends,” and almost two before I made some forever friends. After growing up in a tight-knit, small community the effort needed to build new relationships was shocking, but it did happen. In the short amount of time we had to prepare for our move this past year, I started to mentally arm myself for that loneliness once again. I didn’t want to be sideswiped by the experience of starting over. I had become a mom at the same time as six of my closest college friends. We had spent the past eight years getting married and having babies one after the other. I had never done motherhood alone, but not knowing people would now be my new reality. I would not have the natural interactions of my youth to help this time around. I

by Tori Martinez had no job outside the home and no school beyond my online graduate program. Once the inevitable abyss of daily life outside of a community of friends set in, I wasn’t shocked, but I simply could not see beyond each day’s survival. Kids healthy, check. Husband happy, check. Netflix as my only friend, check. Thankfully, my desire for normalcy in the face of great change for my kids brought me to endless activities for them where, lo and behold, other moms were struggling to do life in many of the same ways. As I have slowly begun to make some acquaintance friends, a few kind of friends, and even one or two forever friends, I’m realizing that the village isn’t so much for my kids as it is for me and my own sanity. The motherhood community here in the

o CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Los Olivos School Foundation launched the Middlebury Interactive Language Program in February.

Cub Scouts offer fun and memories by Logan DeLeon Contributing Writer

Cub Scout Pack 42 is very lucky to be in the Santa Ynez Valley. I have participated in this pack for four years and have enjoyed all of them. My favorite memory is camping at Carpinteria State Beach. Being in Cub Scout Pack 42 means doing fun things like egg-drop challenge, rain-gutter regatta, Pinewood Derby, camping, hiking, and outdoor fun. If you are interested in joining the Cub Scouts, we hold meetings on the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. in the Oak Valley School multi-purpose room in Buellton.

Cub Scouts is for boys in grades 1 through 5, and Cub Scout Pack 42 is open to students in all schools — home, public, charter, and private — which allows for all of us boys to get to know each other regardless of what school we attend. You can decide to join Cub Scouts while in any of those grades. Cub Scout ranks are first grade, Bobcat; second, Wolf; third, Bear; fourth, Webelos I; and fifth grade, Webelos II. You can decide to join Boy Scouts after completing the Webelos II rank. We hope to see you at the next Pack 42 meeting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 3. Our special guests will be Zoo to You.

Brandi Kulikov, M.A.

• Certified Labor Doula • Certified Postpartum Doula • Trained Childbirth Educator • Newborn/Infant Care Specialist • CA Massage Practitioner • Maternity and Baby Consultant • HUG Your Baby Parent Instructor (805) 478-7543 • cuddlebug.biz • cuddlebugbaby@hotmail.com

EDUCATION/PARENTING BRIEFS

Health scholarships for students offered

Registration for competition by March 8

The Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Auxiliary (SYVCHA) offers $3,000 scholarships each year to high school graduates or to seniors at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, Midland School and Dunn School who wish to pursue careers in a health-or medical-related field. The Auxiliary announced that applications for 2016 scholarships are being accepted from Feb. 15 through March 15, 2016. All scholarship applicants must be current high school seniors or high school graduates, have good scholastic standing, are planning careers in the health or medical-related fields, and already have acceptance from the accredited school of their choice. The scholarship application form and complete instructions are at www.cottage health.org/syvch (click on Scholarship link). Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applications received after March 15, 2016, will not be accepted. Santa Ynez Valley Union High School seniors must obtain a separate, specialized scholarship application directly from the high school by calling 805-688-6487, ext. 3208.

The Santa Barbara County High School Architectural Design Competition is open to all 9th-12th grade students in the county with no entry fee. Students are challenged to use their creative and critical thinking skills by using any drawing media, from freehand to drafted, for developing a building design and communicate ideas on paper. If selected as one of 12 finalists, students will present their work to a jury of architects and educators to compete for awards including a cash prize. The Design Charrette is from 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 15 at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School. Registration is open until March 8. The Finalist Jury Review will be from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 19. For more information contact Allison Marcillac at 965-6307 or info@afsb.org.

SYHS senior named scholarship finalist Casey Mordini-Bluhm, a Santa Ynez Valley Union High School senior, was

o CONTINUED ON PAGE 15


n

March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 11

‘Iron Hand’ has a gentle touch

Creator of delicate art has led an active life by Pat Patterson Contributing Writer

Among the many accomplished and fascinating people in the Santa Ynez Valley is longtime resident Chuck Wilcox, a silver and gold smith whose creations are treasured by his customers. Chuck begins with a sketch and then proceeds through a long process toward creation of Western-style jewelry, buckles, equestrian-related items or just about anything else that a client can describe.

r

His artistry is all the more amazing because he has worn a metal prosthesis since he lost the lower part of his left arm years ago. The prosthesis led to an Indian boy long ago giving him the nickname “Iron Hand.” Chuck sits for many hours as he works on his metal creations, but as a young man he was anything but still. Raised in an Amish family, he ran away from home when he was just 15 years old and joined a circus. He got a job driving the calliope and working with the lions and other animals. He was so willing to learn that he was even taught some of the high-wire acts. Then he thought that maybe he could earn some money wrestling, which was going very well until he was stabbed in Mexico. As a result he lost 44 pounds and had to give up

“The Los Olivos School Foundation has been so generous over the years in raising to the digital and K-12 settings. Middlebury money for the school’s enrichment programs, Interactive provides language education for supplementing education such as science, more than 200,000 K-12 students nationwide. music, art, and now foreign language. We rely Languages are assigned to specific grade on the foundation and private donors to make levels but students are always welcome to try programs like Middlebury Interactive Lanout different languages in the computer lab. guage Program a reality,” Baublits added. Currently the assigned foreign languages are The foundation has an ambitious set of French for kindergarten through second grade, goals for the 2016 school year, including a Spanish for third through fifth grades, and garden and outdoor classroom. Chinese for sixth grade. The foundation is a nonprofit corporation “We are fortunate to have a state-of-the-art whose specific goal is to improve the quality of education at Los Olivos School. By receivcomputer lab funded by the foundation and ing grants and gifts and engaging in fundraisa private donor a few years back, where the ing efforts, it provides financial support to students can learn during class time,” said augment the school’s programs. Principal Bridget Baublits.

LANGUAGE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

that career. But Chuck always looked for the next opportunity. He was soon launched into another one when a friend suggested that he go to Hollywood to see what jobs were available. Because Chuck had grown up around horses and knew how to drive a team, he soon found work in Western movies driving stagecoaches. His experiences with the circus had also, in many ways, prepared him to become a stuntman and this fearless young man just loved challenges. In Hollywood, Chuck found that many different opportunities would be offered. He worked primarily at Republic Studios and soon found himself doubling for such famous actors as Richard Burton in “The Rains of Ranchipur,” released in 1955, and for both

Robert Wagner and Jeffrey Hunter in “The true story of Jessie James,” released in 1957. He also doubled for Yul Brynner as a chariot driver, and had some acting roles under the name Adam Marshall. He says that one of his scariest jobs was the time he was hired to pose with an apple on his head while an ice skater leaped and knocked it off. He says he was never told the fate of the man who had been hired just before him, but Chuck emerged unscathed. In another movie he was playing the role of a Christian being fed to the lions. Some of the lions were toothless, he says, but not all of them. However, if they got too rough, the lion trainer would come out and get them off the actors. He remembers that the lions had terrible breath.

National Signing Day Two students from Santa Ynez Valley Union High School signed with colleges on National Signing Day in February. Seniors Erin Williams (pictured left with parents Brook and Cory Williams) will be attending University of California Santa Barbara and Tristan Jackson (right with parents Bob and Kathleen Jackson) will be attending Cal Lutheran University. Both girls play for the high school’s soccer team. Photo Contributed


12 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

going out and ab 2050 Viborg Road

Buellton Historical Society

Elverhoj Museum of History & Art

Creation Station 252 E Hwy 246

Hans Christian Andersen Park

LOS ALAMOS 1880 Union Hotel 362 Bell Street The C Gallery 466 Bell Street Los Alamos Mens Club 429 Leslie Street

LOS OLIVOS

Brent & Jeff’s Flooring

Old Mission Santa Ines 1760 Mission Drive

PCPA Theaterfest 420 Second Street Santa Ynez Valley Real Estate 1595 Mission Drive

2027 Village Lane #201

Edward Jones 1090 Edison St Suite 101

Treats Women’s Boutique

Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum 3596 Sagunto Street

Santa Ynez Inn 3627 Sagunto Street Valley Grind 3558 A Sagunto Street

not to s c ap

Dr. Catherine Streegan Sunny Fields Park Alamo Pintado Road

Maverick Saloon 3687 Sagunto St

M

Sort This Out Cellars 1636 Copenhagen

3568 Sagunto Street

El Rancho Market 2886 Mission Drive

101 

New Frontiers 1984 Old Mission Drive

e

SANTA YNEZ

Mie’s Beads 1539 A Mission Drive

al

Honey Paper 2933 Grand Ave

The Landsby 1576 Mission Drive

1603 Copenhagen Drive #4

Valley Hardware 1665 Mission Drive The Wildling Museum 1511-B Mission Drive

Want to be listed on our map directory? Contact Shana DeLeon by email at ads@santaynezvalleystar.com

BUELLTON

246 

Secon

d Stre

et

©Michelle Castle / Honey Paper

Atterdag Road

51 E Highway 246

Lana Clark 1607 Mission Drive

Fifth Street

Pea Soup Andersens Inn & Restaurant

633 Chalk Hill Road

McMurray Road

Pattibakes 240 E Highway 246

1624 Elverhoj Way

Bell Street

51 E Highway 246

9 miles north

Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital

lags

BUELLTON

LOS ALAMOS

Dr. Dennis Bales 2040 Viborg Road #240

Avenue of the F

2425 School Street

l Wa y

The Ballard Schoolhouse

SOLVANG

Indu stria

BALLARD


March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 13

bout in the Valley Railway Nojoqui Ave.

154 

LOS OLIVOS

Alamo Pintato Grand

Santa Barbara Avenue

Jonata

rd Canyon

Roa d

BALLARD

Roblar

alla

Baseline

B A

Mission

eet

Alisal

Meadowvale

Edison

RA

BA

AR →

First Str

154 

B TA

hagen

246 

Numancia

AN

Copen

Sagunto

S TO

SOLVANG

Refugio

oP lam intato

SANTA YNEZ

Serving the communities of Ballard • Buellton • Los Alamos Los Olivos • Santa Ynez • Solvang


14 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

S

First step toward fitness is planning

ince I launched my blog and lost more than 30 pounds, people have asked me for advice about starting a work-out regimen, “eating clean,” losing weight and toning up. What works best for me is to create a schedule. Every week, I prepare weekly meal plans for my family and me, then base my grocery list on the dishes and ingredients planned for the week. (You can check out my blog for free, printable copies of meal plans and grocery lists at www.lifestylebykristen.com). Armed with a list based on specific meal plans, I don’t buy too much of any one item, which results in less food waste. When I return home from shopping, I prep lunches for three or four days in a conveyor-line fashion; each lunch sack contains two daily snacks and lunch. Pre-prepared meal bags encourage me to eat well and limit dining out. For exercise, determine the part of the day that works best for you, a time when you won’t be distracted by outside influences that will keep you from accomplishing your goal. I like to work out first thing in the morning, or directly after taking my daughter to school. I literally get out of bed, throw on my workout clothes, grab my coffee and protein shake, and go. If you work during the day, plan to wake up an hour earlier and start your day with a workout, or pack your athletic wear in your car so you can exercise at lunch or immediately after work. If you are a mom with little ones, and making it to the gym is impossible, consider a stroller fitness class where you and your little one(s) work out together. Kasey Clelland, a certified personal trainer, leads a fabulous stroller fitness class on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Hans Christian Andersen Park in Solvang from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. While scheduling when you will work out, determine what your exercise regimen will be. It is important to change up your workouts, in order to target different areas of your body. If you will be working out on your

THE ‘BEAUTY’ OF WATERCOLOR

By Kristen Wood own, write specific workout regimens. An example would be a 14-minute warm-up on an elliptical machine, followed by your specific circuit-training exercises. By writing a fitness plan, you can view the week and know you are targeting all body areas: arms, back, chest, abs, buttocks, and legs. Lastly, always keep a set of workout clothes in your car for those rare, spontaneous times you have a gap in your day and can squeeze in a workout. To help with you with “clean eating,” here is a recipe. I make these in bulk and freeze them. They only take about 90 seconds to heat up.

Power Broccoli Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees In a large bowl, throw all the following ingredients and mix well (I use my hands): 2 lbs lean ground turkey meat 4 cups of chopped broccoli 1/3 cup liquid egg whites 1 cup low-fat cheddar cheese 2 cloves minced garlic 1 cup chopped parsley 1 cup chopped onions 2 tsp oregano 1 tsp thyme 1 tsp basil 2 tsp black pepper Roll into 2-inch balls and place onto baking sheets lightly lined with coconut oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes. To reheat frozen meatballs, put them into the microwave for 1.5 to 2 minutes.

Contributed

I

an Hartmann, age 10, a fifth-grader at Solvang Elementary School, created “Blue Eyed Beauty” in Amy Lovelace’s watercolor art class, part of an after-school academy class sponsored by Solvang Art and Music.

0

,5 $3

0

0 0,0

19 acres in Santa Ynez with a 5000+ sq custom home, pond, horse facilities, mgrs house, 3 wells You must see to appreciate this fabulous property! Enter this amazing 20 acre ranch & you’ll see horse-filled pastures framed by palm trees and roses, a custom designed pond with a waterfall, and lush lawns welcoming you to a stunning remodeled home and a fully-operational horse ranch. The circular drive leads you to grand custom solid cedar doors and a visually rich foyer that looks out onto the back yard and pasture. The large great room opens to a dining area, a wet bar, and an inviting flag stone covered patio. The custom kitchen with granite counters offers the best in gourmet cooking and entertaining. The 1,200 sq. ft master suite has high ceilings, a separate sitting area, a fireplace, large windows, custom walk-in closet, a large en suite, and all the amenities and quality surfaces you can find.

805.688.5717

santaynezvalley.com • mail@santaynezvalley.com

more in Italy with Chelsea Ward of Sketchy Notions. There is still time to sign up for her next How I learned to live a better story,” by Donald Miller, and “Life After Art: What you Paint in the Vineyard event at Pence Ranch forgot about life and faith since you left the art and Vineyard on March 5. Christi is also working on the curriculum for team-building room,” by Matt Appling. painting events, kids’ painting parties and new Christi loves painting horses, nature and people. She has been inspired by the impres- vineyard classes as well as a new round of 4- to 6-week art classes starting in March. She sionists, and one of her favorites is French also is available for private lessons, parties artist Edgar Degas. and commissions. “I love the way Degas composes spaces,” Her personal work is not yet available onshe said. line, but look for it soon in the future. Gypsy Studios has amazing opportunities To sign up for an event, class, lesson, retreat coming down the pike. This summer, Christi or to learn more, go to www.GypsyStudiosArt will co-lead an art retreat, complete with .com. cooking, sight seeing, painting, yoga and

ARTIST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9


March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 15

st r scenery S O LVA N G R O TA RY PRESENTS

Seth Shomes Opened for James Taylor

and performed with Bruce Willis Blues Band Photo by George Rose Local photographer George Rose takes amazing landscape portraits of well-known Santa Ynez Valley scenery such as this of Armour Ranch Road. HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

Photo by Bill Giorgi Local rancher and farmer Bill Giorgi took this photo of his tractor while discing his farm fields on Alisal Road near Nojoqui Falls, getting ready to plant sedan grass seed for his cattle.

BRIEFS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 Merit Scholarship Program. Casey and approximately 1.5 million other high school juniors, entered the contest by taking the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) in the 2014-15 school year. In the fall of 2015, Casey was named a Semifinalist in the competition. Casey is one of only about 15,000 Finalists remaining and is now eligible for consideration for scholarships. In addition, about 190 colleges and universities are expected to nance some 3,900 college-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards for Finalists who will attend the sponsor institution. National Merit Scholarship winners of 2016 will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in April and concluding in July. These scholarship recipients

Saturday, March 12, 2016

will join more than 315,000 other distinguished young people who have earned the Merit Scholar title.

Pirate Garage Show set for March 19 Many students and Santa Ynez Valley residents are gearing up for the 3rd Annual Pirate Garage Show starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, March 19. There is also an alumni category and all proceeds benefit the Santa Ynez High School Automotive department. Food, music and kids activities are scheduled, along with a raffle sponsored by Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation. Lunch of tri-tip sandwich, chips and water is $10 and the hotdog lunch is $5. For more information about the show, contact Rob Hill at rhill@syvuhsd.org.

MOMS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

in this area, and I’m excited to be a part it.

Santa Ynez Valley is fierce. Mamas love on one another and step up to meet the needs of those around them. Mamas depend on each other not for knowledge, but for empathy, laughter, and endless caffeine. There’s a sweetness to how our children get to be raised

Tori Martinez moved to the Santa Ynez Valley a year ago after spending 13 years in Arizona. Her husband, Louie, does something with computers that she doesn’t fully understand, and her two kids — Macie, 4, and Justin, 2 — keep her on her toes every day.

at 6 pm BLUE & GOLD PMS 286 PMS 871

Solvang Vets Hall Dinner & Performance $60

BLUE & YELLOW

Ticket information call (805) 691-9175

PMS 286 PMS 129

Proceeds benefit local Rotary Projects

Photo by Tenley Fohl Photography


16 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

Salt makes food worth eating S

1603 COPENHAGEN DRIVE SOLVANG CA 805.686.4358 TREATSCLOTHING.COM

alt is the most important seasoning in any pantry. Really, the rest can be thrown into the trash. Besides its historical influence and biological necessity, salt makes food worth eating. When you’re sitting down to eat a meal at home or in a restaurant, salt will make or break an experience. Food has so many flavors locked inside that salt has the key to unlock. It would be pointless to put a juicy slice of summer tomato with a hunk of fresh burrata cheese in your mouth without salt. The flavors in the sweet and tangy tomato and the fatty, milky burrata would be muted and lost. Salt enhances sweet and savory foods; it rounds out flavors and improves overall flavor intensity. Salt can suppress bitterness and other flavors as well as draw out moisture to change food texture. Many home cooks are timid with salt, thinking that high-salt diets are a result of salting meals. However, people generally ingest too much salt from an over consumption of canned, processed and fast foods. For example, a typical fast-food burger contains half a day’s worth of recommended sodium, which is yet another reason to avoid fast food. You’re welcome. Salting takes skill and should be done typically during the cooking process, as the dish is put together, to make sure it’s balanced and seasoned all the way through. Salt, taste, salt, taste. Giving a shake at the table, while effective (and cheeky), won’t give the same depth of seasoning unless you are using a fine finishing salt. Salt does unbelievable things in the world of fermented foods, creating unique and interesting flavors. Sauerkraut and kimchi, for example, take food to another level thanks to salt. Salami and other cured meats taste magical with concentrated flavors and meltin-your-mouth texture. What started as a way to survive and keep food longer has given us some of the most elevated foods available. There are several types of salt for your culinary enjoyment. Some showcase different flavors and some are meant for functionality. • Table salt: Most common in households. It comes iodized and is fine grained, which results in a saltier flavor. The finer grain makes it better for seasoning popcorn and deep fried foods.

• Kosher salt: Most commonly used in restaurant food preparation. It is a coarse, flaked salt that is additive free. It can disperse and melt on food faster, making it ideal for cooking. • Typical Sea salt: Derived from the sea, this salt by Coreen Padilla is available either coarse, which has squarish grains, as well as fine. It has natural iodine and minerals that make it very flavorful. • Fleur de Sel: A sea salt hand-collected off the Atlantic coast of France. It is made of young crystals that form on salt ponds. It is slightly damp and ranges from grey to pink due to the changes in sea water minerality. This is strictly a finishing salt, meaning that it should not be added to foods as they cook because their complex, concentrated flavors will be lost. Use it on fresh fruit or salads and to finish seared seafood and meats. It is also great for finishing chocolate desserts and caramels. • Sel Gris: This gray salt is a cousin of Fleur de Sel. It is harvested from the same pans but is collected at the bottom of the pan and has a deep mineral flavor. It is also damp but is ideal for all-around cooking and can be found in both flaky coarse and fine grind. Good for cooking, baking and finishing. • Pickling Salt: Why? Why does pickling require its own salt? Pickling salt is free of additives that cause clouding in brining liquid, letting you see those beautiful vegetable and fruits inside. It comes in granulated and coarse grinds. You should make pickles. • Infused Salts: Bacon, lavender, chocolate, pinot noir, truffle, vanilla, saffron, lemon … the list and possibilities are almost endless. These are pretty easy to create yourself but can also be found in specialty stores and online. Salt is the reason that eating is enjoyable. It makes mundane food exciting and causes desserts to sing. Play with your salt and see what it can do to improve your dining experience.

ARTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

COTTAGE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

Informational flyers and applications may be obtained in school offices or at www. artsout reach.com. Entry forms and visual and literary arts pieces must be submitted to Arts Outreach no later than 5 p.m. Friday, March 18. For more information about auditions or submission, give us a call at 688-9533. Visual and literary arts finalists will be featured in an online exhibit made possible by our partner, Santa Ynez Valley Arts. The program culminates with the APPLAUSE 2016 Showcase, which showcases the talents of our performing artists, at 7 p.m. on May 14 at Santa Ynez Valley High School Theater. Don’t miss the chance to see these amazingly talented young performers in action.

treatment from Dr. Aguirre, ask questions and get answers, enjoy refreshments, meet our staff, and take a tour of the gastrointestinal lab where colonoscopies are performed. Join us and take the mystery out of the procedure. You can also schedule an appointment to see a specialist and to have a colonoscopy by calling 686-3961. Remember, a colonoscopy could save your life.

BOCCE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

games and come as a spectator. Don’t forget to bring wine, though, or you’ll be in trouble. Also, you can learn more at youtube.com by searching for bocce.


Dinner concert to benefit needy and enjoy,” Martin said. A proud native of Western Massachusetts, news@santaynezvalleystar.com Shomes achieved All-Eastern status in high school as a top vocalist and professional rock The public is invited to a dinner and pianist. He also graduated with honors from concert Saturday, March 12, at the Solvang Tufts University in Medford, Mass., in 1995 Veterans Memorial Hall to help the Solvang with a double major in English and music as Rotary Club support local student scholarships as well as low-income families and the well as a minor in African-American history. He now lives in the valley with his wife and Solvang Senior Center. The concert headliner is Santa Ynez Valley three children. The evening will be an intimate affair with resident Seth Shomes, a legendary music a silent auction beginning at 6 p.m. and dinner, agent and professional pianist. served by Solvang Rotary members, consisting “This event has been in the works for more of five food stations where guests can fill their than a year, and we are thrilled that Seth is plates with lasagna, pork sliders and chicken performing for our local community,” said picante paired with a salad, as well as a dessert Scott Martin of the Solvang Rotary. station. Shomes is one of the world’s premier Local guitarists Mark Sanches and Bob independent music agents and marketing Schelly will perform during dinner. Shomes executives. In 1997, he opened Day After Day will take the stage at 8 p.m. and perform Productions in a tiny apartment in New York popular songs of the past two decades with City and has since built the agency into a lead- a sound that is described as a blend of Billy er in understanding and monetizing the casino Joel and Jerry lee Lewis. industry for his clients. The proceeds from the event will benefit He is president of David Clark Cause, a the Solvang Rotary’s scholarship fund for global leader in creating cause-supporting students at Santa Ynez Valley Union High initiatives. He also co-founded and is the School and Hancock College, as well as supacting COO of Smokey Robinson’s Smoke port activities to support the Solvang Senior Alarm nonprofit organization. Center and local low-income families. “Seth is an accomplished musician in his The Veterans Memorial Building is at own right. His ability on the piano is astound1745 Mission Drive in Solvang. For more ing. He leaves audiences in awe with incrediinformation or to purchase tickets at $60 per bly energetic performances. His music crosses person log onto solvangrotary.com or call 691-9175. many genres, and he plays music we all know

March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 17

SYHS Cross Country Wins State Championship

by SYV Star Staff

Contributed The Santa Ynez Pirates boys cross country team brought home the 2015 Division IV Cross Country State Championship, the first state championship in any sport in the long and storied 119-year history of Santa Ynez High School.

10th place finish, Coach David Jackson said. The Santa Ynez Pirates boys cross That’s 5:02 minute miles for 3.1 miles. country team were proud to bring home The MVP, Brian Illes, also broke the old the 2015 Division IV Cross Country State school record with his time of 15:52. Championship recently. This is the first Tommy Hill, a junior, moved up throughstate championship in any sport in the out the race and finished at 16:13. long and storied 119-year history of Santa Captain, Grehson Smith, ran 16:30 Ynez High School. and Cody Hill, also a junior, clinched “Johnny Jimenez, a senior, destroyed the victory by crossing the finish line at his own school record on the legendary 16:52. Eric Moniot and the captain from course by 20 seconds. He ran the 5k last season, Dennis Rojas, concluded course in 15 minutes and 41 seconds their careers as their 6th and 7th runners, and lead our team to victory with his respectively. Contributed

We believe life is all about your vision. DENNIS R. BALES, O.D.

2040 Viborg, Suite 240 Solvang, CA 93463 www.visionsource-dennisrbalesod.com Office Hours by Appointment

(805) 688-0707 (805) 693-9839 Fax


18 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

Farmstead goes from field to fork consumers. Walk around the Farmstead and you will almost inevitably see some weeds or Contributing Writer plants that are living in an area not sectioned When you step onto the Farmstead, you are for them. This is due to the practice of permaculture, where instead of spraying chemicals stepping into a living organism where many different elements work in harmony with each to kill all life except the target crop, Abel and his farmers work with the soil to promote a other. Much like the dependent relationship healthy ecosystem for flourishbetween farmer and consumer, ing crops. the soil relies on good bacteria Practicing this method to produce nutrient-dense, assumes greater responsibilgood-tasting produce. ity to the soil, as it is necesThe first year at the Farmsary to monitor specifically stead on Old Coast Highway what is going on. Weather at Gaviota was trial and error it be knowing crop location for farmer Abel Basch, but he for future crop rotation, or wrapped it up confidently and knowing where all the gophers looks forward to each season as he heads into his second. Farmer Abel stuck went, these important elements factor in when to classic techniques and old-fashioned meth- operating an organic farm. And we should be ods to ensure the expansion of the Farmstead. thankful for these local farmers who have taken on that responsibility, for farming is more Who doesn’t like having a local organthan simply growing good produce. ic-produce stop where anyone can step onto Early in the morning Abel is up and packthe soil for a closer look at what they are ing lettuce and carrots for delivery to local really eating? Often found working in the grocery stores where it is more convenient field, Farmer Abel and his farm hands welfor some people to get access to organic, come visitors and enjoy a momentary break high-quality produce. In fact, there are many to answer questions, always encouraging a ways to get connected to your local farm. CSA healthier lifestyle through eating local and organic produce. If you have ever stepped into (Community Supported Agriculture) boxes are delivered from the Farmstead once a week the Farmstead’s barn, you know how importto business and individuals who are making ant high-quality produce is to Abel. the switch to organic locally grown produce. The Farmstead does not introduce chemiFollowing the delivery of CSA boxes, once a cals to the soil that that are detrimental to the health of the environment and the health of the week the Farmstead opens for business on the

by Kevin Christensen

Contributed Farmer Abel Basch at the Farmstead practices permaculture, which promotes a healthy ecosystem to encourage crops to flourish.

UCSB campus for their farmers market. Farmer’s Markets are a great way to get rich, seasonal produce as well as have an opportunity to create a relationship with the farmer and food. Abel and the Farmstead believe in the importance of high-quality produce and encourage others to get better educated about the food they’re eating, so that when people make the switch to organic produce, they begin to feel better physically.

In 2015, the Farmstead provided lush U-pick fields, an abundance of delicious produce, and a deeper understanding of the food we consume. In 2016, let’s thank the Farmstead and all local businesses that supply us with the food and nutrients our bodies need. The Farmstead is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily at 2323 Old Coast Highway in Gaviota. For more information, log onto www.farm steadca.com or email info@farmsteadca.com.

Center shows strength of growing equine community

W

here else in the world other than in the Santa Ynez Valley would an ailing older woman donate her coveted equestrian estate to become a nonprofit riding center for all disciplines, and for the entire equine community? The Santa Ynez Valley Equestrian Center was once the home of renowned breeder and trainer Jody Carsello. She raised and showed cutting horses in the early 1950s, and she helped to popularize the sport in California.

She was one of the top women cutting-horse trainers to compete against all men. Jody owned Hollywood Rush, a son of Hollywood Gold, and Martin’s Jessie by Jessie James, another famous cutting stallion. She also owned a direct daughter of Doc Bar, and many other brood mares of incredible lineage. Her breeding program was renowned across the country. I knew Jody when I was very young, and she was both regal and terrifying. She did

have a reputation for a temper, you see. But she gave me horse books to read and taught me about breeds and bloodlines, and I asked lots of questions, so we became pals. She was a true multi-cultural equestrienne, being a follower of the Spanish Riding School methods of dressage and haute e’cole later in life. She transitioned from breeding and raising prized cutting-horse bloodlines to becoming well known for her exceptional Andalusian horses, with royal pedigrees and impeccable training; she even had piaffe posts installed, and trained horses to work in-hand the classical way. In 1993, Jody recognized a huge need in our growing horse community. There was no consistently available place for horse shows, clinics, 4-H Horsemastership Program meetings, and the like. The staunch libertarian that she was, there was also an ulterior motive: keep my money away from the government and within the community. So she proposed an idea to several community members, including now (and founding) Board President David Hunsicker, that her property be made into an equestrian center. The Santa Ynez Valley Equestrian Association was formed as a nonprofit group to receive the gift and to oversee the management of the facility and its membership. Fast forward 23 years to 2016 and the facility boasts an impressive cadre of ame-

by Jessica Schley

nities for its members: six arenas for a variety of disciplines, several barns, a “party barn” available to rent, a PA system, offices, a trail course, and room for much, much more. In 2015 there were more than 420 members, up 100 from the previous year. The group expects

even more in 2016. As would make Jody incredibly happy, her former property has become quite multidisciplinary. The Santa Ynez Valley Therapeutic Riding group calls the center home. Buck Brannaman hosts a roping event once a year. Volunteers organize Hunter Jumper play days, carriage events and Western & Ranch Trail shows. The high school rodeo riders and the Valley Penners hold events as well. There are hopes that were will soon be Cowboy Action Shooting and Extreme Trail events. There is also action on starting a series of Poker Penning events, which is one of the fastest growing Western sports in the country right now. “It’s been a long road and there were many times we were upside down or on the brink of not making it. But that’s in the past; we are doing extremely well now, things are happening, it’s an exciting time,” Hunsicker said. “We have amazing volunteers who work incredibly hard to make things happen. We have had generous donors to help us build

o CONTINUED ON PAGE 19


March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 19

AN ‘EXTRAORDINARY’ STORY

Artist adds author to resume by Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com Alana Clumeck of Santa Ynez is known as an artist who paints extraordinary pictures of horses, cattle, bison, and agricultural landscapes. Now, with the publication of her new book, “The Extraordinary Pony,” she can add author to her resumé. “I have always wanted to illustrate my own book after seeing a family friend do one of their own. It really sparked my desire and I needed a story — which my daughter Indigo asked for,” she said. Clumeck wrote and illustrated the children’s book after her 4-year-old daughter asked for a story about horses and unicorns. The story follows the journey of a young pony striving to find its purpose. After failed attempts at running fast like the thoroughbreds, jumping high like the steeplechasers, and herding cattle like the quarter horses, the pony receives some loving words of encouragement from her mother. The beautifully illustrated children’s book imparts a message to its young readers: Never stop chasing Contributed your dreams. Alana Clumeck of Santa Clumeck Ynez wrote and illustrated herself has been the children’s book after her chasing her own 4-year-old daughter asked dreams but didn’t for a story about horses and realize her artistic unicorns.

BITTLES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 that this was the direction I wanted to go in with my business. I listen to their stories and I feel like I finally found my calling, to help people remember their loved ones and give them something to hold on to,” Bardessono added. Another woman asked Bardessono to make special bears from her grandfather’s clothes so she could pass them to all his grandchildren. “I learned about Kelly on Facebook, and it is one of those many ways that I love how Facebook connects people and helps to build a community,” said Linda Smith of Santa Ynez. “Kelly advertised her cute bears, and I decided to use her talents even though I know how to sew well. Kelly agreed to find some fabric for bears that had a cowboy or Western theme that I used for baby gifts. Everyone loved them, in part because they are simple but beautifully made. “Kelly is one of those people who make you happy that you decided to purchase something locally. I believe in this model so much that I decided to pass along my older sewing

Photo by Raiza Giorgi Alana Clumeck is known in the Santa Ynez Valley as an artist who paints extraordinary pictures of horses, cattle, bison, and agricultural landscapes.

talents until a few years ago when she had her second child, River. She began painting and posting her pictures on Instagram and Facebook, then started selling her work. Her paintings now hang in local design shops such as Denee’s of Santa Ynez and Plenty Boutique in Santa Ynez. She is also speaking at local elementary schools about being an author and illustrator. Clumeck grew up with her four siblings in western Australia in the back of a pottery shop run by her artist parents. One of her brothers, Wadin Nicol, is now a professional surfer. “We hardly spent any time indoors. I remember skin diving with my dad before school and bushwalking (hiking) all over

with my siblings. I think all kids should grow up that way,” she said. Clumeck was living in a convent with nuns while helping build villages with the Glenn Family Foundation in the Himalayan Mountains of India when she flew to Las Vegas to do fundraising. “I met my husband Tony in Las Vegas and we just hit it off. When I went back to India it was a bit of a culture shock and I was actually stuck in a civil conflict for a week. When the conflict broke out, 20,000 people left in one day and I couldn’t get out in time. I spent a week trapped in the hills when the military moved in. They opened one road and I left and flew to Santa Barbara where my brother was staying. I

called Tony and traveled to San Francisco and we have been together ever since,” she said. Moving to the Santa Ynez Valley a few years ago sparked her inspiration for painting agricultural scenes and animals such as bison, cows and horses. “Something about the horse I just took to right away. The wildness inside of them reminded me that even though I am a mother I am still a person, and have desires and dreams and I too am still developing,” she said. She said her favorite feeling is driving over San Marcos Pass and seeing the

machines to her so that she could consider teaching budding seamstresses and entrepreneurs. I am delighted to see her succeed and look forward to everything anyone does to make her or other young business people reach their goals,” Smith said. Bardessono has created more than 250 memory bears, 175 memory bunnies and dozens of pillows. Some of the memory items are from people who have died, and others are for kids who outgrew their clothes or blankets. Bardessono lost her grandfather a few years ago and whenever she makes a memory item she always prays that “Pa-Paw” will watch over her when she starts cutting into that loved one’s clothing. “It takes days for me to cut the fabric, lay out the pattern and pin. I look at every inch of the clothing because if there’s a stain or something on it I talk to my customer and see if they recall what it was from and if they want me to leave it there,” she said. Originally from New Richmond, Ohio, Bardessono has lived in the Santa Ynez Valley since 2007. She said most of her customers live on the Central Coast, but she has started

getting a lot more orders from the Midwest and East Coast. “I came from a small town but there isn’t anywhere like the valley. The people here are so accepting and involved with what’s going on,” Bardessono said. In her sewing room, using her 1962 Singer sewing machine, she sews only when her two daughters are at school or out with their father, Jay, so she can give total concentration to her work. “These might look like just shirts and pants to people, but they are someone’s family member that was incredibly special, and I take it very seriously that they trust me to do this,” Bardessono said. She chuckled to herself as she admitted that she still hasn’t attempted to recreate her daughter’s bunny, Rose. She hopes she will never have to.

EQUESTRIAN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

For more information on Bardessono’s work, log onto www.etsy.com/shop/Bittles Boutique, email kellybardessono@gmail. com, or follow her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

o CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 infrastructure. So many people deserve recognition.” Jody’s only daughter, Stephanie Carsello, still owns the last of Jody’s Andalusian bloodlines, a champion mare named Vida de Arte. Stephanie was a prima ballerina in her time and was also a ballet instructor at the Fossemalle Dance Studio in Santa Ynez. She taught many, many students over the years, including me and this newspaper’s owner and publisher, Raiza Giorgi. Stephanie recently had a memorial display installed in honor of Jody in the Equestrian Center’s party barn. It stands as an indelible mark of tribute from all of the center’s members to Jody’s memory and legacy. We are truly blessed to have such a jewel in our community. It’s something Jody would be quite happy to see. She wasn’t easy to please, as anyone who knew her would attest, so saying that is, well, really saying something.


20 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

Health and Wellness Dear driver, have you Chiropractic benefits go met my best friend? beyond your ‘bad back’ by Alice Murphy

by Dr. Jim Hazard, D.C.

Contributing Writer

Did you see us? Dear Mr and Mrs Driver, Did you see me on your way home from work today? My best friend and I were on the trail next to the road. My best friend is hard to miss. He is the handsome one with the fire red coat and the flowing tail. Did you see me when my best friend shied in to the road? He didn’t mean to get in your way. It was a bird that flew out of the hedge and startled him. Please can I tell you about my best friend? My best friend brings me much pleasure. My best friend is not a machine. He is not a bike or a car. He is well trained but he has his own mind and instincts that are all his. You see, my best friend is a horse. Thank goodness you saw us. Thank goodness you passed us wide and slow. It didn’t matter that my friend spooked at the bird and slipped when his hooves hit the tarmac. We are all safe because you gave us room. We returned home from our ride feeling happy and you got back from work with your windshield and car intact. You

Contributing Writer

Contributed Alice Murphy and her horse Jae remind drivers to share the road withequestrians.

understood that I ride a live animal, you understood that I am a person, with a family waiting for me and that my best friend is my pet. Thank you for taking the time to look after yourself and us. Thank you for sharing the road. Alice Murphy moved to the Santa Ynez Valley from England in 2013 along with her husband, baby and an ex-racehorse Jae. Now a stay at home mom to two boys, Alice has come to regard the mountains around Solvang as much home as the patchwork quilt fields of her native Hampshire.

Your first thought to visit a chiropractor is when you incur a back injury, “throw your back out,” have a headache or other spine-related ailment. Correct? However, did you know that chiropractic can help with your overall wellness care as well? Chiropractic is a natural, drugless approach to helping patients not only heal, but reach their health goals as well. Chiropractic is successful based on the principle that the body has the amazing, innate ability to heal itself (under the right conditions), and it is the chiropractor’s job to help create an environment to facilitate this. Because the nervous system controls every cell and organ in your body, chiropractors focus their attention on the health of your spine being properly aligned and, if there are shifts, helping the spine come back into alignment.

The majority of chiropractors treat patients with back pain, but chiropractic has been known to help with all of the following as well: headaches, ear infections, neck pain, arthritis and joint pain, scoliosis, asthma, blood pressure, healthy pregnancy, organ function, improved athletic performance, and even surgery prevention. Studies have even proved that chiropractic patients experience “overall increased bodily function,” which includes mental clarity. So the next time you need a wellness check, you may want to “Think chiropractic first.” Dr. Jim Hazard earned his chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic West. He has been in practice since 1993 and currently practices in Solvang. He resides in Buellton and has three daughters, who keep him on his toes and see him regularly as patients.

ARTIST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 mountains and the valley, where she really loves to look at the shadows and colors. Her book was published by Lucky Penny Press, a division of Lucky Penny Publishing, which is a children’s eBook and print publishing company. Each LLP book is connected to a nonprofit organization, which receives a portion of book-sale proceeds. One dollar of each copy of “The Extra-ordinary Pony” sold on Amazon will benefit Bal Suraksha Trust (www.bsachildrights.org) which promotes human rights and a dignified life for children, protects the rights of children for holistic growth and development, and provides rehabilitation for the children through mainstream education, counseling, health and hygiene in a child-friendly environment.

Contributed The Extraordinary Pony fails to find her purpose by trying to be something she’s not.

Clumeck’s book can be purchased at www.amazon.com by searching for “ The Extraordinary Pony.” She is also on Facebook and Instagram and can be reached by email at alanaclumeck@gmail. com.


March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 21

PREPARING FOR SPRING

It’s time to get soil ready for planting

‘‘ ’’

that mulch offers great ton or $15 per ton for potential for restoring screened mulch. If you ecological processes to need a large amount degraded soils, while diand have no way to verting a valuable natural haul it yourself, try resource from landfills. MarBorg Industries, by Puck Erickson-Lohnas Studies from a number of univerPeople often ask about 20 David Love Place Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden sities suggest that mulching is more the mulch available from in Santa Barbara (963effective in increasing organic matter, the county or MarBorg 1852). microbial biomass, nutrient availability, his is the time of year when garden Industries, as it is relativeAnother often-overand plant growth than the use of fertilwriters pull out the stops to discuss ly inexpensive. looked addition to our izer alone. Fortunately, popular culture the miracles of mulch and preparWhen the recycled local soils is worm is now embracing the idea of recycling ing your soil for spring planting. At the green waste program first castings. If you want our green waste from our gardens Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, we are started, the quality of the to take the “hands on” and tables, realizing that mulch offers of the same mind. mulch was questionable approach, try building great potential for restoring ecological Since the garden’s inception, we have at best. The amount of a worm box. There processes to degraded soils, while been holding a “Mulch Madness” day to plastic bits and chunks are literally hundreds diverting a valuable natural resource bring volunteers together to help mulch of two by fours seemed of “how to” websites from landfills. much of the garden’s 2-acre site. We use at times to outweigh the and videos online; try mulch not only to protect new plantings better components of the compost.css.cornell. but also to build soil in fallow areas. With mix. Fortunately, the edu/worms/steps. our disappointing rain totals (We are still quality has improved html to get started. If hoping for more!) and continuing warmer over the years. It is you want to bypass summers, mulching should be an essential excellent for mulching the step of herding part of your gardening routine. large outlying areas in your own worms, you Studies from a number of universities ranch landscapes as well may purchase bags of suggest that mulching is more effective in as those seldom-visited perimeter areas in castings at local nurseries or some hardincreasing organic matter, microbial biomore suburban gardens. ware stores. mass, nutrient availability, and plant County mulch can be picked up at Santa And while you are still in a soil-building growth than the use of fertilizer alone. Ynez Valley Recycling and Transfer at mood, think about your soil’s makeup. Most Fortunately, popular culture is now embrac- 4004 Foxen Canyon Road just outside complaints about soil in valley gardens tend ing the idea of recycling our green waste of Los Olivos. Call 688-3555 for current to focus on its clay component. Depending from our gardens and tables, realizing prices. A load generally runs around $5 per on where you are located, the percentage of

Miraculous mulch is a valuable resource

T

42

#

Care for your business as you would your family.

clay in the soil varies. But if you have tried to walk 50 feet across a dirt patch after a week of rain, you can feel the clay clinging to the soles of your boots, adding an inch with every step. Gypsum binds clay particles together, helps soften soil structure, and allows for improved water distribution throughout the soil matrix. It is easy to apply and is available at local landscape suppliers. There are also new products on the market to help with moisture retention, and as the temperature climbs into the eighties again, we are beginning to try some of them. AquaSmart PRO is a polymer-coated sand product that increases moisture retention for sustained grass, turf, and plant growth in a dry climate. This sort of product is great for incorporating into soil for pots or a small lawn. If you want to learn more, join us at the garden from 9 a.m. to noon on March 19 for some hands-on information, or come to our gardening workshop at 1 p.m. at St. Mark’s in Los Olivos. Puck Erickson-Lohnas is board president of the nonprofit Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, which is dedicated to encouraging children to explore, adults to learn, and individuals of all ages to enjoy a relaxed moment in the beauty of nature. For more information or to become a sponsor, visit www.santaynezvalleybotanicgarden.com.

Together let’s create a plan for your business and the future of those who help it grow. Randall J. Giorgi* CLU® ChFC®, CFP®, CASL® Visionary Insurance & Financial Services, LLC** CA Insurance Lic # 0672372 2650 Industrial Parkway, Suite 200 Santa Maria, CA 93455 (805) 347-1979 randy@visionaryifs.com http://www.visionaryifs.com ** Financial Adviser offering investment advisory services through Eagle Strategies LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, Registered Representative offering investments through NYLIFE Securities LLC (member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency and wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Insurance and an agent licensed to sell insurance through New York Life Insurance Company and may be licensed to sell insurance through various other independent unaffiliated companies. ** Visionary Insurance & Financial Services, LLC is not owned or operated by New York Life Insurance Company or its affiliates.

Life Insurance Solutions For Business. SMRU1614160 (Exp.08/07/2016) © 2015 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010

Visionary Insurance & Financial Services, LLC


22 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

events

march Tales from the Tavern celebrates 14th year of local concerts Kortchmar is a guitarist, producer and songwriter whose work with James Taylor, Tales from the Tavern Carole King, Linda Ronstadt, David Crosby, Tales from the Tavern, the concert series Graham Nash, and Neil Young helped define that brings singer-songwriters and top the signature sound of the singer-songwriter musical troubadours from all over the world era of the 1970s. He was also Don Henley’s to the Santa Ynez Valley, has kicked off its songwriting and producing partner through14th year of heartwarming gatherings with a out the 1980s. performance by Glen Phillips. Postell was a member of Pure Prairie Phillips rose to fame in the 1990s as the League. He has worked with many of the songwriter, singer and guitarist for Toad artists just mentioned and has created music the Wet Sprocket, whose albums “fear” and for Hollywood and Broadway productions. “Dulcinea” both went certified platinum, Navarro wrote “We Belong,” which with the mega-hits “Walk on the Ocean,” became a huge hit for Pat Benatar, as well as “All I Want,” “Fall Down” and “Something’s songs recorded by The Bangles, Keb’ Mo, Always Wrong.” Dave Edmunds, The Temptations, Dionne In the warm and intimate setting of “the Warwick, and more. Tavern,” Phillips not only showed off his Two weeks later, on March 23, TFTT impressive guitar-playing and singing, but welcomes the great David Lindley, wellhe revealed a humor and vulnerability that known as longtime accompanist for Jackson helped forge a genuine personal connection Browne as well as for his collaborations with with the sold-out crowd at The Maverick Ry Cooder, and his own band El Rayo-X. A Saloon. That magic, which gets created master of all things with strings, Lindley’s when a seasoned performer meets a recepincredible musical explorations combine tive audience, is the hallmark of Tales from folk, blues, bluegrass, African, Arabic, the Tavern. Asian, Celtic, Malagasy and Turkish music. March 9 brings a “songwriters in the All TFTT shows are at The Maverick round” show featuring Danny Kortchmar, Saloon in Santa Ynez. For more information, Steve Postell and Dan Navarro. go to www.talesfromthetavern.com.

by Ron Colone

February Events - To submit an event for March email events@santaynezvalleystar.com. For the online calendar www.visitsyv.com.

1

Visit the CA Space Center - Visit the CA Space Center in LA where the shuttle Endeavor re-sides. Register at www. cityofsolvang.com

5

SYV Touch a Truck - The first annual event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bethania Lutheran Church. The day will feature farming and construction equipment, safety, military and specialty vehicles. Proceeds will benefit Bethany Preschool and Afterschool programs. Face painting by Prismatic Body Art, bounce house, food, and live music by the Dylan Ortega Band. Admission $5/ person, $20/family of 5, 611 Atterdag Road, Solvang. Syvtouchatruck@gmail.com or visit www.facebook. com/syvtouchatruck. Ballard Barn Bash - Live auction with dancing by the Live Wire Band and smoked barbecue catering by The Chef’s Touch from 6 - 11 p.m. at 4245 Baseline Ave. Tickets are $75/person and all proceeds benefit the Ballard PTA. More information and tickets at BallardPTA.org. Nat Osborn at Standing Sun - Nat Osborn is a blend of old school soul, inventive jazz inflected piano playing, and tinges of funk, blues, and classical music all centered around smart, catchy pop songs and a powerful and captivating voice. Doors open at 7 p.m. tickets are $10 or $15 reserved. Food by Al Fresco Picnic.

Sunstone Wellness Retreat - Wellness retreat at the Sunstone Villa guided by Jill LaFleur of LaFleur Wellness and Gokhan Filiz of g6 Fitness. Together they bring their passion and exper-tise to create a holistic weekend experience of organic foods, meditation and inspiring exercise so you leave feeling renewed. Tickets at sunstonewinery.com

12

Ping-Pong Tournament - Ping Pong tournament at the Buellton Rec. Pizza lunch included in entry, bring your own paddle. Ages 11 - adult. Register at www.buelltonrec.com. Buellton Wine and Chili Festival - Taste amazing chili, salsa, wine and beer at Flying Flags Re-sort in Buellton. To register for the chili contest or tickets log onto www.buelltonwineandchilifestival.com Rubber Block Printing Workshop with Sara Woodburn - This workshop is an introduction to relief printing with a carved rubber block. The block is easy to carve and print and perfect for making cards. You will complete a 4” x 6” print. All materials will be provided. To reserve your spot call 805-686-8315. Second Saturday Drop in Art Workshop - Elverhoj Museum of History and Art offers family friendly fun with hands on activities using a wide variety of art mediums. This Saturday is Hand Christian Andersen Illustrated Storybooks. Open to ages 5 and up for more information contact the Elverhoj at 686-1211 or www.elverhoj.org.

Seth Shomes - Accomplished musician will be performing a benefit concert for Solvang Rotary Club Free Museum Day - The Wildling Museum of Art and at Solvang Veteran’s Memorial Hall. Tickets are $60/ person and include dinner. Starts at 6 p.m. Call 805Nature will be hosting a bird-themed day full of free activities, such as a bird themed craft, story time with 691-9175 for tickets. the Solvang Library, and a doc-umentary screening. Raw Talent - Performances by students at Santa Museum admission is free all day! Ynez Valley Union High School at Solvang Theaterfest starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10, seniors and K-8 $7, Art Dialogue with DiPego & Knowles - Author kids under 5 are free. and screenwriter Jerry DiPego joins artist Jo-seph Knowles for “seen & Spoken” a dialogue about art Copenhagen Girls Choir - Elverhoj and storytelling from 4 - 6 p.m. at El-berhoj Museum Museum of History and Art invites of History and Art. Free to the public located at 1624 you to a free concert of music with Elverhoy Way in Solvang. the award-winning Copenhagen Girls Choir at 7 p.m. at Bethania Lutheran Church 603 Atterdag Road. Solvang Library Book Sale - 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Considered one of the best girls’ choirs in the world, Hundreds of books and audio/video for adults and children! Located at 1745 Mission Drive. Call 688-4214 the musical group will perform along with internationally renowned Danish pianist Katrine Gislinge. for more info The homogenous voices of these 32 highly trained girls, accompanied by a world-class soloist. Piedras Blanca Lighthouse and Cambria Trip - Located north Taste of Solvang Blind Tasting of Hearst Castle, visit the icon-ic Challenge - Tickets available at lighthouse only accessible by special tour. Cost is $59/ http://www.eventbrite.com/e/tasteperson from 7am-6pm buellton-rec.com. of-solvang-tickets-18351705445 Mother-Son Luau - Hawaiian style Sip + Savor - Opening night of the luau for moms and sons. From 5:30 Taste of Solvang at 7 p.m. at Solvang p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Solvang Vets Veteran’s Memo-rial Hall 1745 Hall. Register at www.citofsolvang.com Mission Drive. Buy tickets $45 http://www.eventbrite.

13

Happy Hour 4-6:30 pm

food, wine, beer & cocktails starting at $6

805.688.3121 | 1576 Mission Drive www.thelandsby.com

10 11

17

18

Y Check it out!

Keep up to date with all the events happening in the Santa Ynez Valley, visit:

www.visitsyv.com


March 2016 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 23

Events pages sponsored by com/e/taste-of-solvang-tickets-18351705445

19

3rd Annual Pirate Garage Show starting at 7 a.m. at the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School. There is also an alumni category and all proceeds benefit the Santa Ynez High School Automotive department. Food, music and kids activities are scheduled, along with a raffle spon-sored by Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation.For more information about the show, contact Rob Hill at rhill@syvuhsd.org. Field Class: Midland School - From 9-11:30am Located about 5 miles north of Los Olivos, we’ll hike up Birabent Canyon on the school property. The hike is about 2 miles round trip, with little elevation gain. We’ll meet near Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos in case anyone is interested in carpooling. Tickets are $25/ non-members or $20/members. Call 805-686-8315 to reserve your spot.

Buellton. The hunt starts at 10 a.m. All ages welcome! buelltonrec.com.

meets at 7:15 a.m. every Tuesday at River Grill at the Alisal www.solvangrotary.com

Succulent Workshop at Santa Ynez Valley Botanical Garden - “Container Planing with Succulents”.

Solvang Farmers Market - A non-profit founded in 1983 to provide California farmers with direct access at landmark loca-tions to market their agricultural products directly to the local community. Located on First Street in Solvang from 2:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

EveryDay

Exhibition Prints from Land and Sea, A Blend of Art and Science: The Wildling Museum of Art & Nature presents the work of scientist artists Eric Hochberg, Shane & Genny Anderson, Print from Land & Sea displays the power of nature printing. The impressions, in ink, made on paper or fabric from the specimens show details that allow scientists to not only touch and feel the specimen but to study it. Runs until March 21. Cachuma Lake Recreation - Wildlife cruises and boat rentals, fishing, nature walks and Nature Center. Visit www.countyofsb.org/parks.

Mulch Madness - 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. looking for volunteers to help mulch the garden at the San-ta Ynez Valley Botanical Garden in Buellton. Sign up at buelltonrec.com or call 688-1086.

Clairmont Lavendar Farms - Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 2480 Roblar Ave Los Olivos. www. clairmontfarms.com.

Taste of Solvang - Tasting Trail from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. or Solvang Wine and Beer Walk from 2 - 7 p.m. Tickets available at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/ taste-of-solvang-tickets-18351705445

Ostrichland - Feed ostriches and learn about this unique breed, fresh emu and ostrich eggs and a gift shop. Open 9a.m. to 5 p.m. 610 E. Highway 246 www. ostrichlandusa.com

20

Segway Tours - Learn about Solvang in a fun way! www.advoutwest.com/catours/ca-segway.html. Call 688-8899

John Doan at Bethania Lutheran Church - Emmy-nominated master harp guitarist will be per-forming at Bethania Lutheran Church at 7 p.m. Bubbles, Brews & Brunch - 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Solvang Veteran’s Memorial Hall 1745 Mis-sion Drive. Includes bottomless Bloody Marys and Mimosas $65 or $45 (excludes bottomless Bloody Marys and Mimosas). http://www.eventbrite.com/e/taste-of-solvang-tickets-18351705445

24

Tesla at Chumash Casino - Rock band Tesla will bring their bluesy brand of hard rock to the Chumash Casino Samala Showroom at 8 p.m. Tickets are $45 available at www.chumashcasino.com

26

Easter EGGstravaganza - The SYV’s biggest easter egg hunt is free to the public at River View Park in

Zaca Creek Golf Course - Perfect little 9-hole course! Dailey from sunrise to sunset. No tee times! 691-9272

Mondays

Senior T’ai Chi - Classes at the Solvang Senior

Center. Call 688-1086.

4-H Meetings - Lucky Clover 4-H meets 1st Monday at 7p.m. at The Grange in Los Olivos hee-haws@comcast.net/ Buellton 4-H meets 3rd Mondays at 7:30 pm at Buellton Senior Center buellton4h@yahoo.com.

Tuesdays

Wednesdays

Rotary Club of the Santa Ynez Valley - Noon at Root 246 in Solvang. www.santaynezvalleyrotary.org

Thursdays

Blind Tasting Thursdays - Wandering Dog Wine Bar - 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Test your knowledge of varietals and regions with our blind tasting challenge! $15/person Rotary Club of Buellton - Santa Ynez Valley Marriott Hotel at noon every Thursday www.buelltonrotaryclub.org Rotary Club of Los Olivos - Santa Ynez Valley Grange Hall 5:15 p.m. every Thursday www.losolivosrotary.org Open That Bottle Night - SY Kitchen - 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. S.Y. Kitchen presents Open That Bottle Night – a weekly tribute to the Santa Ynez Valley community and her locals. S.Y. Kitchen will waive all corkage for any wine from Santa Barbara County with the menu designed by Executive Chef and Partner Luca Crestanelli. Movie Night at Sevtap - www.sevtapwinery.com/ About-Us/Events

Fridays

Wine and Wisdom Trivia Night at Sevtap - www. sevtapwinery.com/About-Us/Events

Rotary Club of Solvang Breakfast club

Serving the communities of

Ballard • Buellton • Los Alamos Los Olivos • Santa Ynez • Solvang


24 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 2016

$1,950,000 | 5575 Baseline Ave, Santa Ynez | 3BD/2BA Carole Colone | 805.708.2580

$1,595,000 | 3398 Calzada Ave, Santa Ynez | 3BD/2BA Carole Colone | 805.708.2580

$1,525,000 | 3725 E Oak Trail Rd, Santa Ynez | 3BD/3BA Deanna Harwood | 805.325.1452

$1,649,000 | 470 Bluebird Glen Rd, Buellton | 4BD/3BA Deanna Harwood | 805.325.1452

$950,000 | 2975 Foxen Canyon Rd, Los Olivos | 3BD/2BA Deanna Harwood | 805.325.1452

$899,000 | 2699 Quail Valley Rd, Solvang | 5BD/3BA Deanna Harwood | 805.325.1452

$899,000 | 3173 Samantha Dr, Santa Ynez | 4BD/3BA Carole Colone | 805.708.2580

$579,000 | 750 Main St, Los Alamos | 3BD/3BA Suzy Ealand | 805.698.9902 Š2016 An Independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. CalBRE# 01317331

Visit us online at bhhscalifornia.com Montecito | Santa Barbara | Los Olivos


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.