Santa Ynez Valley Star March B 2021 by Santa Ynez Valley Star

March 16 - April 5, 2021

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COVID-19 weddings offer creative ways to celebrate nuptial festivities Face masks, livestreaming and even board games become part of the festivities By Raiza Giorgi

publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com

esides being known for wine and beer country, the Santa Ynez Valley is also home to a large number of weddings. Bridal parties from all around the country as well as international flock to the valley for its picturesque backdrops of wine grapes to rustic ranch and farm scenery. With COVID-19 restrictions in place for just about a year, wedding coordinator Chloe Redmond of Vino Vaquera and local photographer Brittany Taylor talked with the Star about how things changed in wedding country overnight and how brides and grooms have had to adapt their dream day. “It’s hard to imagine the big giant weddings we had before COVID, with 150-200 guests and partying hard into the night,” Redmond said. “I’m sure those days will come back, but it has been almost a blessing getting back to basics this past year.” According to the Santa Barbara County Clerk-Recorder’s office, marriage licenses issued dropped 10 percent from 2019 to 2020. Particularly in the month of April 2020, there were only three licenses issued, compared to 297 for the same month in 2019. However, civil ceremonies performed increased 12.5% from 1,549 in 2019 to 1,742 in 2020. Average costs for a wedding in Santa Barbara County range around $33,000, according to WeddingReport.com. If all the weddings cost just the average, that equates to a $122 million industry for the county.

Portraits by John Q Lauren Nguyen and Cameron Russell were married at a private ranch in Santa Ynez Valley. Wedding coordination was done by Vino Vaquera Consulting.

Redmond’s consulting company had to shift literally overnight and several of her clients’ big ceremonies planned for 2020 had to be postponed or scaled to meet the public health requirements. “It was a scramble last March for sure, and some couples I am working with decided to postpone until after the restrictions are lifted completely,” she said. “Others said they wanted to stick with their wedding, limiting to just immediate family and friends, because they dreamed of getting married on a certain date.” She added that several did go ahead and get married and are rescheduling their reception until bigger gatherings are allowed. Taylor said a large majority of her clients pushed their weddings to after May of this year, but are already either postponing or moving their wedding venues to other states that have less restrictions so they can have at least have small celebrations. “I have done a few in other states through the past several months that are allowing a limited number of guests,” she said. “I just feel awful for a lot of our local vendors that are losing business as their trades aren’t as flexible.” Redmond said couples are doing custom face masks for their guests, as well as personalized hand sanitizers. A lot of couples are also providing a livestream of their ceremony for family and friends that cannot be there in person. “One groomsman had on a Go-Pro on his cowboy hat which gave a really unique perWEDDINGS CONTINUED TO PAGE 23

FYI

Photos by Amber Dolyak Photography Couples are doing custom face masks for their guests, as well as personalized hand sanitizers.

SYHS Sports are back! Sort of. Page 22. .

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Governor, state leaders announce immediate actions for pandemic relief Staff Report

G Photo Contributed The Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office has received a number of complaints about individuals on ATVs, primarily in the Santa Ynez riverbed, who are damaging private property and the environment.

Sheriff’s Office requests continued grant funding for ATV enforcement Staff Report

he Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office is seeking grant funding to provide increased patrolling and enforcement of areas where illegal off-road vehicles are being used. The Sheriff’s Office has received a number of complaints about individuals on ATVs, primarily in the Santa Ynez riverbed, and surrounding areas bordering Lompoc who are damaging private property and the environment. They are also violating a number of other state and county ordinances. The

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Sheriff’s Office is also planning on increased enforcement in the Santa Maria riverbed and the Cuyama Valley. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office applied to the State of California Parks and Recreation Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) 2021/2022 grant program. The preliminary application was submitted Feb. 24. As part of the multi-step application process, there is an opportunity for public comment and feedback before the final application which is due on May 3. From March 2 to April 1, the public can view the online grant application and submit comments. To view the application, go to the California State OHV Grants and Cooperative Agreements program at ohv.parks.ca.gov. To make public comments on the application, click on “GRANTS” and then on “On Line Grants Application (OLGA).” Then follow the directions on the menu bar on the left side of the screen. This is the eighth year the Sheriff’s Office has applied for grant funding for OHV enforcement in Santa Barbara County.

overnor Gavin Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon announced Feb. 17 that they reached an agreement on a package of immediate actions that will speed needed relief to individuals, families and businesses suffering the most significant economic hardship from the COVID-19 recession. The compromise builds on the initiatives in the governor’s state budget proposal to provide cash relief to lower-income Californians, increase aid to small businesses and provide license renewal fee waivers to businesses impacted by the pandemic. In addition to these measures, the agreement provides tax relief for businesses, commits additional resources for critical child-care services and funds emergency financial aid for community college students. “As we continue to fight the pandemic and recover, I’m grateful for the Legislature’s partnership to provide urgent relief and support for California families and small businesses where it’s needed most,” Newsom said. “From child care, relief for small business owners, direct cash support to individuals, financial aid for community college students and more, these actions are critical for millions of Californians who embody the resilience of the California spirit.” “We’re nearly a year into this pandemic, and millions of Californians continue to

feel the impact on their wallets and bottom lines,” said Senate President pro Tempore Atkins. “Businesses are struggling. People are having a hard time making ends meet. “This agreement builds on Governor Newsom’s proposal and in many ways, enhances it so that we can provide the kind of immediate emergency relief that families and small businesses desperately need right now. People are hungry and hurting, and businesses our communities have loved for decades are at risk of closing their doors. We are at a critical moment, and I’m proud we were able to come together to get Californians some needed relief.” “Californians have been hurting,” Rendon said. “Our response tackles the human and the economic impacts of COVID in a way that echoes President Biden’s American Rescue Plan and will help those who are hurting most. We are building an economic foundation for the recovery of jobs, small businesses and, indeed, our everyday lives.” Separately, Newsom and legislative leaders said that discussions are continuing on measures for the safe reopening of the state’s K-12 schools, including strategies to address learning loss caused by the pandemic.

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Churches take different approaches as COVID-19 rules change While some houses of worship in county resume indoor services, others wait By Janene Scully

Noozhawk North County Editor

ome churches in Santa Barbara County quickly returned to indoor services, but others have kept status quo amid still-high COVID-19 cases and uncertainty that numbers will go down and stay down. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled this month that California churches could resume indoor worship services, which had been banned under state public health orders. However, the court said the state could enforce its ban on singing and chanting, and limit attendance at 25% of capacity. Just days after the ruling, many churches resumed in-person services inside, although with mask wearing, social distancing and temperature checking among measures in place. Many other churches still have not returned indoors. Santa Barbara’s Congregation B’nai B’rith has conducted services nearly entirely online, but leaders say they’re looking to return to in-person services at some point. “We are plotting a path towards reopening for in-person worship with the hopes that we’ll be able to utilize our beautiful outdoor spaces starting mid-June,” Cantor Mark Childs said. A decision to resume will consider state rules, involve social distancing and depend upon members’ feelings about what’s safe for the congregation, including the most vulnerable people. “We are adamant that our policies not exclude anyone or put our clergy staff at risk,” Childs said. Likewise, Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Santa Barbara decided to continue drive-in worship at least through this Sunday. Churchgoers remain in their vehicles in the large parking lot while songs and prayers are amplified and played out across the radio. The last time churches could offer indoor services, the rules changed back within a few days, leading to the decision this time to wait a few weeks to see what happens, office manager Alison Hansen said. The Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara also continues to stream its services live on Facebook. “We will not be returning to in-person ser-

Janene Scully / Noozhawk photo The Rev. Randall Day, pastor at St. Mark's-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church in Los Olivos, talks during the Ash Wednesday service outdoors.

Janene Scully / Noozhawk photo St. Mark's-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church in Los Olivos holds an Ash Wednesday service outdoors and with modifications because of COVID-19

vices until the community numbers go down. We are hoping with the vaccine rolling out that we may be able to do that in the fall,” said Erin Wilson, director of administration. The Supreme Court ruling came weeks before many churches prepared to enter their holiest season, kicking it off with creative approaches for Ash Wednesday, including offering ashes-to-go while recipients sat in their vehicles or having members apply their own ashes handed out in biodegradable cups. The latter approach occurred at St. Mark’sin-the-Valley Episcopal Church in Los Olivos, where services have remained outdoors. The Rev. Randall Day said he is eyeing a July 4 return to indoor services. The church has followed more general rules rather than those carved out for churches, Day

said, noting that the public health orders are temporary. “We’re really about enduring values, not what’s going to happen in the next five minutes. We can live through things that are difficult and painful,” Day said. Although some churches have ignored the public health rules, Day said he believes the faith community should be more thoughtful and sensitive about potential impacts on the broader community. “It’s just political and cultural. It has nothing to do with good science and being thoughtful about how the church is part of the public,” Day said. Parishes that fall under the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles have taken different approaches, with some returning indoors and

others staying outside. Either way, churchgoers should check parish websites or social media to see whether reservations are required. St. Louis de Montfort Catholic Church in Orcutt and St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Santa Maria returned to indoor Mass within hours of the ruling. La Purisima Concepcion Catholic Church in Lompoc has continued outdoor Mass, but it does hold an indoor daily Mass, which typically has lower attendance. Santa Barbara and Goleta parishes weren’t so quick to return indoors, as the St. Barbara, Our Lady of Sorrows and St. Raphael’s parishes continued outdoor Masses. Old Mission Santa Ines in Solvang has chosen a hybrid option, with indoor and outdoor Masses planned. Reservations are required for either option by calling 805-688-4815 because of limited seating. Old Mission isn’t alone in offering options. Santa Maria Foursquare Church and First Christian Church returned to indoor services but have kept outdoor and online options available. Santa Maria’s First Christian Church also has kept a drive-in option to meet its members’ wishes. “I feel like we will run all the way through the summer with this,” Lead Pastor Jim Larrabee said. “The outdoor is wildly successful. People who come outdoors are actually enjoying it, and here on the Central Coast, the weather is perfect for it.” He said they plan to add a few more indoor services as people feel more comfortable about being in the sanctuary. “We try to meet people where they are,” Larrabee said, adding that preaching outside can be challenging as vehicles pass by on busy streets, and a car alarm went off recently. While many churches entered COVID-19 with video and livestream experience, others had to scramble to adapt, with one pastor enrolling in a webinar to improve his skills. It remains to be seen what changes will linger. “COVID changed church, it really did,” Larrabee said, adding those changes have been both good and challenging. Noozhawk staff writer Jade Martinez-Pogue contributed to this report.

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4 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 16 - April 5, 2021

Buellton dives into general plan and updating land use during joint meeting

By Raiza Giorgi

publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com

n a joint session of the Buellton City Council and Planning Commission, members were briefed on general plan recommendations to update city ordinances pertaining to land use, permitting fees, social equity and traffic circulation. The virtual meeting took place on Wednesday, Feb. 24, and council members and commissioners gave direction to staff on those issues. The presentation was made by Irma Tucker, the city’s contracted planner along with staff in the planning department. “The two goals are to inform city decision makers on assessments on current policies and achievements accomplished since the last land use update back in 2007/08,” Tucker said. Since that time, the city has updated design guidelines to enhance the agrarian section and include art deco and other requirements from Avenue of Flags Specific Plan and Affordable Housing. Tucker also said some of the fees structures haven’t been updated since 1995 and need to be brought up to date, especially developer fees. Planning staff also said some zoning changes might be needed to reflect the actual use and adding in more opportunities to identify good areas for community gardens, farmers markets and recreational paths. The city has also seen much growth since 2004, especially in multifamily units and industrial or commercial spaces. “The social equity portion really identifies the need for affordable housing for low income and very low income residents, identifying potential Disadvantaged Communities or DAC’s, but Buellton really doesn’t have much,” Tucker said.

Photo contributed In a joint session of the Buellton City Council and Planning Commission, members were briefed on general plan recommendations to update city ordinances and policies.

Tucker said they must make sure that people are not linguistically isolated and identify mobility issues and availability of access to parks and recreation facilities. “I really think that Buellton is making good strides on getting information out in Spanish as well as having translation services available,” said Mayor Holly Sierra during council comments. “We also have great transportation with almost round the clock busing available.” The council and commissioners also listened to the circulation element of the update looking at greenhouse gas emissions, traffic and policies regarding that. “There are lots of different studies we are looking at for the circulation element,” said Rose Hess, city engineer. “We reviewed traffic

volumes and collision data from vehicle vs. pedestrian and vehicle vs. vehicle. A lot of this centers around Highway 246, which is Caltrans jurisdiction.” Hess said they must look at impacts of traffic to projects and multiple perspectives. “We also want to look at traffic calming measures to ensure safety for all modes of transportation,” she said. “We need to look at features to modify Highway 246 especially on west end to redesign to much more community friendly for what Buellton would like.” According to Hess, the Highway 101 corridor would need to be looked at to incorporate into Village Specific Plan and Avenue of Flags. Parking policies also need to be updated for parking on street, off street, recreational vehicles and

long-term storage. “All the truck traffic that comes in, vacationers with RV’s short term and looking for partnerships to take care of those visitors as well,” she said. Pedestrian circulation is being looked at and enhancing overpasses over Highway 101 are more feasible with Caltrans as far as improvements, Hess added. Damassa Road from Avenue of Flags to McMurray is also being replaced with Rufus T. Buell Drive, and signage needs to be replaced. Hess also brought up working with Santa Barbara County and Solvang to create a secondary bypass between the two cities. Widening the existing lanes are not recommended other than provisions for bicycle lanes. Another roadway connection behind Albertson’s is being looked at as well to alleviate the bottlenecking at Highway 246 at McMurray Road. “The circulation element is more comprehensive,” said City Manager Scott Wolfe. “This city is relatively well built out, and not a lot of room left to build things. There are a number of policy revisions proposed due to shifts in city priorities looking at the future and development. It has shifted and needs to be readdressed.” Other points made: Some policies enhance bicycle and pedestrian access along major roads and bicycle racks should be encouraged as facility improvements. Also, identifying a place for banners and signs for city events and programs is a consideration. To watch the full meeting visit the Buellton’s YouTube page at www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKusNaVIGBE.

Seasonal beach restrictions now in place for VAFB beaches Limits for Western Snowy Plover protection began March 1 Staff Report

easonal restrictions for Surf, Wall and Minuteman beaches began Monday, March 1, as part of the annual program to protect the Western Snowy Plover and its nesting habitat. Under the Endangered Species Act, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Biological Opinion requires the 30th Space Wing Commander to enforce restrictions on all three beaches annually, March 1 through Sept. 30, to protect the threatened Western Snowy Plover and its nesting habitat. “During plover season, the general public can still access much of Surf Beach, but must be careful to avoid the designated restricted areas,” said Col. Anthony Mastalir, 30th Space Wing commander. “Our goal is to maximize beach access for the local community, while still adhering to environmental requirements and safety measures. If everyone does their part, I believe

Violation limits for Vandenberg’s beaches are imposed per the terms and conditions of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Biological Opinion for Beach Management. Entry into posted restricted beach areas counts as a violation and violators can be fined up to $5,000 in federal court. Violators of the Endangered Species Act (e.g. crushing eggs or chicks) can face fines up to $50,000 in federal court and imprisonment for up to one year. “We protect the snowy plover by restricting specific areas of the beaches, managing predators, and restoring plover habitat to compensate for the effects of recreational beach use during the breeding season,” said Kaisersatt. “Beach restrictions also include the prohibition of dogs, Photo contributed horses and kites.” Seasonal restrictions meant to protect the Western Snowy Plover are now in place at three Vandenberg Air Force Base beaches. To ensure continued access, the community we can protect the snowy plover while we enjoy can protect Surf Beach for current and future is asked to take care of the beaches and abide by our beautiful coastline.” generations in our local community,” said Sathe requirements to maintain recreational access mantha Kaisersatt, 30th Civil Engineer Squadron for everyone. Visitors are also asked to read and The section of Surf Beach available for recreational access during the nesting season has not biological scientist. “A trail is available to walk follow the rules on the posted signage to avoid changed, but will remain open year-round. between Surf Beach and Ocean Park behind the violations and beach closure. “Violations will continue to be counted and restricted nesting area for all to enjoy and plans Open hours at Surf Beach are from 8 a.m. to 6 staying out of posted restricted areas is critical are in place to construct a permanent boardwalk p.m. daily. Beach access at Wall and Minuteman is allowed from sunrise to sunset. to ensuring public beach access. Together we in the near future.”

March 16 - April 5, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 5

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In defense of SYHS teacher, lecture data

’ve decided to write my own letter to the editor because, frankly, I’m tired of the nonstop attacks and criticisms in the “Santa Ynez Valley High School Administration/School Board Transparency Project” Facebook group. I don’t think this behavior and treatment of this teacher is OK or should be tolerated for any other teacher either. I am an actual former student of Mr. Mullin (unlike the letter previously published here by Jessie Bengoa and several of the adults posting in the Facebook group). I graduated from SYVUHS in 2006. I had Mr. Mullin for Latin 1 my freshman year (the year he won Teacher of the Year for the state of California), Latin 3 my sophomore year, and AP U.S. history my junior year. If he taught a class for seniors, I would have taken that too because he’s an amazing teacher and makes learning fun and enjoyable. My husband also had Mr. Mullin for Latin and says he was the best teacher he had at the high school. It is evident that a lot of people (based off the blog post written by Dr. Baeke) have twisted data and now are running with this narrative that they are somehow victims of

a teacher’s political opinion (they are not, by the way). Sharing political data trends to an AP U.S. history class is completely appropriate, especially during an election year. These are high school students capable of critical thinking, and they will soon be old enough to vote for themselves. Shouldn’t they be learning about our current political system and climate as students? Sharing data is not sharing an opinion. Here’s an example of how incorrectly the blog is interpreting the lecture and data: From the transcript, Mullin says: “But the younger Latinx kids tend to vote Liberal, but have a hard time convincing Granma and Granpa to change their vote... there’s a thing there.” Baeke says to this: “According to the teacher, in Hispanic families it is the elder members who are naive and wrong-headed and need to have their political beliefs changed by the youngsters.” That is completely misinterpreting the statement. Mullin said “young Latinx have a hard time convincing their elders to change their vote.” He did not say “young Latinx voters have the right idea and their

elders are too stupid to figure it out.” This data trend is true for my family. My Cuban grandmother (and grandfather before he passed) is conservative/Republican. Her children and grandchildren are not. We would never be able to convince her to change her vote. That doesn’t make her stupid or “naive and wrong-headed” as Baeke claims. Clearly, we are not the only family where this is true. That’s why it’s a reported trend according to their research data. Another thing people on the group and the blog are claiming: “He’s calling Trump supporters stupid.” No, he’s not. According to the 2016 data from Pew Research Center, Clinton supporters tended to have a higher level of education than Trump supporters. That is NOT calling anyone stupid. “What is your highest level of education?” is a commonly asked question when collecting demographic data. I’ll use another example from my family on this point. My mom, her parents and her six siblings (who are white) are all Republicans. Most are Trump supporters too. My mom graduated college. A lot of her siblings, and her dad, did not go to

college. Therefore, their levels of education are lower than people who graduated college when they are asked about their demographics, but that does not make them stupid. It means they have different levels of education. If they voted Democrat, their levels of education would still be the same. Their voting preferences do not determine their level of education or “smartness.” From Pew Research Center’s website: “Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. We conduct public opinion polling, demographic research, content analysis and other data-driven social science research. We do not take policy positions.” In conclusion, you should not be offended by data trends and demographics that voters self-reported. If you are, that is your fault, not the teacher’s. Stop attacking a good teacher because you failed to understand how to objectively interpret data.

Erica Valdés Proud former student of Mr. Mullin, SYVUHS Class of 2006

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March 16 - April 5, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 7

Redistricting panel’s independence under siege

s a result of a ballot initiative approved by voters, county supervisor electoral boundaries are now being drawn by a local independent redistricting commission. The ordinance, drafted by county supervisor Das Williams, requires that anyone who has worked for a county supervisor or a candidate’s election in the past eight years can’t be a member of, or a consultant to, the redistricting commission. The purpose of this requirement is to preserve the independence of the commission from partisan political interference and any form of “electioneering.” Predictably, the independence of the commission is under siege by progressive activists. These include activist progressive attorney Phil Seymour, Santa Barbara County Democratic Party organizing director Spencer Brandt, and Lee Heller, who is a consistently large donor to local Democratic candidates (she recently donated $11,000 to support the re-election of Supervisor Williams). This group relentlessly pressured the redistricting commission to forego hiring the firm of Nielsen Merkasmer to serve as their legal counsel based on a very nebulous accusation that Nielsen was in violation of the eight-year prohibition having to do with the firm simply filling out a report indicating that one of their clients had donated $1,000 to Supervisor Bob Nelson. Nonetheless, Nielsen was initially recommended by county staff because it is the only firm in the state that specializes in drawing

political boundaries, having provided services to the cities of Santa Maria and Santa Barbara, among hundreds of other jurisdictions. Moreover, Nielsen’s initial bid came in $100,000 less than the attorney the activists wanted, Mr. Fred Woocher. The Board of Supervisors is expected to award the contract to Mr. Woocher at its March 9 meeting based on the recommendation of the Redistricting Commission. What both Mr. Seymour and Mr. Woocher failed to initially disclose is that they were the attorneys on record for a court case representing County Supervisor Doreen Farr, since retired, that certainly fell within the eight-year prohibition. The case ran up a legal bill in excess of $500,000, which Farr’s campaign was required to pay unless the attorneys decided to donate their time. This case clearly falls within the eight-year prohibition. A second cause of action has to do with another provision of the county ordinance, namely, all commission members and their consultants, must reside in Santa Barbara County and be registered to vote in the county. Mr. Woocher fails on both of these counts and is thereby disqualified from the contract. Mark Meuser, Attorney Dhillon Law Group Counsel for the Coalition of Labor, Agriculture and Business (COLAB)

Developer’s plan will disrupt private road

os Alamos is a small unincorporated town. We don’t have our own elected government. We depend on county officials. We pay property taxes just like other county residents and expect fair and responsive treatment by these agencies. Recently, however, a Planning and Development (P&D) issue has come to the fore after lying dormant for about two decades. Back then, the county ceded all responsibility for the maintenance of a two-block stretch of road here. We didn’t ask for it. They placed financial responsibility for road upkeep entirely in the laps of the adjoining homeowners. While 18 homeowners pay annual dues for these repairs, we are more than welcoming to pedestrians, joggers, bike riders and dog walkers from all parts of town. All may enjoy this quiet and safe neighborhood. Today, P&D is moving ahead with a developer’s profitable plan that would add as many as 11 new homes on an adjoining acre-and-a-half lot. The county has granted him the right of access to our private road. A county permit for his lot

plan would greatly increase traffic here. It would raise the risks of accident and injury, reduce the safe and peaceful enjoyment of the road by us and our neighbors in town, and result in higher costs to us for road maintenance. It may be that P&D is able to do this within existing zoning and planning rules. But it is not the right or smart thing to do; there is another road that could provide access for the developer. Planners ought to steer the outcome in this sound and responsible direction. Instead, they first ignored a one-lane bottleneck. Then they tried to minimize its risks to safety because acknowledging it would complicate their aim to push forward with an ill-considered plan. It seems to many here that county bureaucrats have been rigid, programmatic, occasionally arrogant and obfuscatory. Isn’t it time for a reappraisal and a sensible result? Seth Steiner Los Alamos President, Shaw Street Maintenance Association

Letters to the editor should be no more than 300 words in length. Send letters to: Raiza Giorgi, PO Box 1594, Solvang, CA 93464 or email to: news@santaynezvalleystar.com Please include your name and address and phone number.

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8 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 16 - April 5, 2021

Santa Ynez Valley Star’s Wedding Guide Staff Report

Venues

1880 Union Hotel – 362 Bell Street, Los Alamos – www.1880union.com Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort – 1054 Alisal Road, Solvang – www.thealisal.com Bodega Los Alamos – 273 Bell Street, Los Alamos – bodegalosalamos.com Brander Vineyard – 2401 N. Refugio Road, Santa Ynez – www.brander.com Brick Barn Wine Estate – 795 West Highway 246, Buellton – www.brickbarnwineestate.com Fess Parker Winery & Vineyards – 6200 Foxen Canyon Road, Los Olivos – www. fessparker.com Flag Is Up Farms – 901 E. Highway 246,

Rise & Shine start your day the Mad & Vin way and join us alfresco for breakfast or brunch, plus a mimosa or two

Solvang – www.montyroberts.com/flag-is-upfarms Firestone Vineyard and Winery – 5017 Zaca Station Road, Los Olivos – www.firestonewine.com Figueroa Mountain Farmhouse – Figueroa Mountain Road – www.farmhouserental.com Folded Hills – 2323 Old Coast Highway, Gaviota – www.foldedhills.com Gainey Vineyard – 3950 E. Highway 246, Santa Ynez – www.gaineyvineyard.com Hotel Corque – 400 Alisal Road, solvang – www.hotelcorque.com Lincourt Vineyards – 1711 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang – www.lincourtwines.com Nojoqui Falls – 3250 Alisal Road – www. countyofsb.org/parks Rancho La Zaca – 6903 Foxen Canyon Rd, Los Olivos – www.rancholazaca.info

Roblar Winery – 3010 Roblar Avenue, Santa Ynez – www.roblarwinery.com Sanford Winery & Vineyards – 5010 Santa Rosa Road, Lompoc – www.sanfordwinery.com

Santa Ynez Inn – 3627 Sagunto Street, Santa Ynez – www.santaynezinn.com

santaynezmuseum.org Santa Ynez Valley Marriott – 555 McMurray Road, Buellton – www.marriothotels.com

Sogno del Fiore Estate – 2045 N. Refugio Road – www.sognodelfiore.com Solvang Festival Theater – 420 Second Street, Solvang – www.solvangfestivaltheater.org Sunstone Winery – 125 Refugio Road, Santa Ynez – www.sunstonewinery.com

Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum – 3596 Sagunto Street, Santa Ynez – www.

SPLASH INTO SPRING

At the Sideways Inn, you can enjoy the pristine pool just steps from your relaxing room. We offer more amenities than meets the eye with a convenient location to kick off your spring vacation!

breakfast

Monday - Friday, 8 - 11 am

brunch

Saturday & Sunday, 8 am - 2 pm

learn more & view our menus at madandvin.com

114 E CA-246, Buellton, CA 93427 · 805.688.8448 · www.sidewaysinn.com

March 16 - April 5, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 9 The Buellhouse at Zaca Creek – 1297 Jonata Park Road, Buellton – www.zacacreek.com/the-buell-house

Churches

Bethania Lutheran Church – 805-6884637 – www.bethanialutheran.net Crossroads Church – 805-688-3075 – www.syvcrossroads.church Mission Santa Ines – 805-688-4815 – www.missionsantaines.org Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church – 805-688-6323 – www.syvpc.org

Molly Ringwald Project – www.projectmolly. com Scott Topper Productions – https://www. scotttopperproductions.com

Bridal Shops

Panache Bridal – 1315 State St., Santa Barbara, 805-892-4000 – www.panachebridals.com Men’s Wearhouse – 719 State St., Santa Barbara, 805-962-2694 – www.menswearhouse. com

Cakes

Forage Florals – www.forageflorals.com Renae’s Bouquet – 805-691-1660 – www. renaesbouquet.com Santa Ynez Valley Florists – 805-688-4231 – www.syvflorist.com Ella & Louie Flowers – www.ellaandlouie.com

Invitations / Products

Honey Paper – www.honey-paper.com The Giving Ink – 805-325-9320 – www. thegivingink.com Viking Press – 805-688-5219 – www.vikingpressprinting.com

Party Rentals

Fisher Family Rentals – www.fisherfamilyrentals.com Santa Ynez Elite Party Rentals – 805-686-

St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church – 805-688-4454 – www.smitv.org

Bands / DJs

JSH Music Productions – www.jshmusic.com

1500 – www.syveliteevents.com

Photographers, Videographers

A & J Photography – 805-416-6517 – www.aandjphoto.com Brittany Taylor Photography – 808-6347440 – www.brittanytaylorphoto.com Jessica Maher Photography – 805-6120007 – www.jessicamaherphotography.com Jose Villa Photo – jose@josevilla.com – www.josevilla.com Joel Serrato Films – 805-245-1489 – www.joelserrato.com Kenzie Kate Photography – www.kenziekatephoto.com Linda Chaja Photography – 805-5886784 – www.lindachaja.com Open Door Photography – 805-637-4528 – www.opendoorphotography.com

Decadence Fine Cakes & Confections – 805705-5467 Pattibakes – 805-686-9582 Solvang Bakery – 805-688-4939 Jensen’s Custom Bakery-805-886-5817

Event Coordinators

Rani Hoover Inspired Weddings and Events – www.RaniHoover.com Vino Vaquera Consulting - thevinovaquera@ yahoo.com Wunderland & Co. – www.wunderlandco.com

Floral Design

Eden Floral – 805-550-4042 – www.edenfloralslo.com

Making your dream come true.

zaca creek ranch

www.zacacreekranch.com

805-698-4540

Wedding and Lifestyle Photographer

Guide Call us today to set up a Wedding Cake consultation!

www.solvangbakery.com melissa@solvangbakery.com 805-770-0089 • 438 Alisal Road, Solvang

www.edenfloralslo.com @edenfloralslo 805.550.4042 Local, Foam-Free, Sustainable Floristry

10 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 16 - April 5, 2021

Carlos Quintero celebrates 51 years as a master barber Bay Area native found his niche following in his father's footsteps By Pamela Dozois

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

arlos Quintero, owner of Carlos Hair Grooming for Men, celebrated 51 years in his professional career as a barber on Jan. 1. Originally from the Bay Area, a native son of Alameda and the second of seven children, he says as a child he felt sandwiched between his older brother, who was a genius, and his younger sister, who was beautiful. He had a learning disability and hated school. “High school was not for me. I was dyslexic and a terrible student,” said Quintero. “While I was still in high school, I worked a deal with the Dean of Boys at Grant Continuation School to allow me to attend high school classes in the mornings only then go to barber college for the rest of the day and evening. I received class credits for attending Oakland Moller Barber College, which allowed me to graduate from high school.” Quintero said the idea of going to barber college came from his father being a barber, and when Carlos saw how successful he was, he wanted to follow in his footsteps. “Things were different in those days. Being a barber was considered a skilled profession,” he said. “It had a status on the social ladder. Today it is, for the most part, regarded as a trade. “In order to become a barber back then, you had to go to barber college, pass the State of California exams to get your license to become initially an apprentice,” Quintero said. “You could work as a barber but only under the supervision of a master barber. After a two-year apprenticeship you had to take another exam to become a journeyman. It was only then that you could work in a shop alone without the oversight. “The next step to becoming a master barber required another exam. I was told that I was the youngest apprentice, journeyman and master barber in the state of California at the age of 20.” He worked with his father for one year, but

Carlos Quintero said the idea of going to barber college came from his father being a barber, and when Carlos saw how successful he was, he wanted to follow in his footsteps.

Photos by Daniel Dreifuss Carlos Quintero, owner of Carlos Hair Grooming for Men, celebrated 51 years in his professional career as a barber on Jan. 1.

claimed “we were too much alike, so I ventured out on my own.” Following a stint in the Marines in 1967 with the Reserve Program, Quintero worked at various locations in Alameda to improve different skills and techniques. “My father said it was best to not stay in one shop for more than a year, because different ethnicities had different types of hair and I need to learn about all different types of hair and continue to improve my skills,” Quintero explained. “So that’s what I did.” Eventually he moved to San Francisco and worked at Bullock & Jones, a premier men’s haberdashery featuring an upscale indoor barber shop. “Word got around about my skill and Vidal Sassoon and Jay Sebring came to visit me because they had heard about my work,” Quintero said. “That was before they started the Vidal Sassoon Salon and Academy and Sebring International Hairstyling Corp. respectively. They offered me a job but I said no as I was married and had a newborn and also, I was from a large family who lived in the Bay Area. “I saved up every penny I made, making do

with water instead of spending money on a cup of coffee,” continued Quintero. “Eventually, I was able to buy a home that was in foreclosure with the help of a private lender at seven and a quarter percent interest. I fixed that house up and sold it. I paid $12,000 for it and sold it four years later for $26,000. Like my father I had an appreciation for real estate and knew about passive income.” He continued to work as a barber but in the meantime, he says he kept his eye on real estate and eventually was able to amass several pieces of property. “I wanted to open up my own barber shop and stay close to my investments,” he explained. “I opened up a shop in Alameda then purchased a shop in Oakland on Piedmont Avenue. I remained in Oakland for most of my career. I continued to make investments in real estate and did very well but due to circumstances beyond my control I lost most of my holdings in the mid-ʹ80s.” In an adventure straight out of a crime mystery novel, which included jealousy, revenge, mistaken identity, and a foray into the world of three-letter governmental agencies, Quintero was

able, after a seven-year battle, to restore his good name and reputation. However, that battle cost almost everything he had worked hard for over 26 years. During those seven years he continued to work as a barber, becoming nearly homeless, but was eventually able to rebuild and recreate his life. “One day my son called and asked me if I would like to move to Santa Barbara, where he was attending UCSB,” said Quintero. “My first day in Santa Barbara I was offered three different jobs in three different barbershops. So, I called my real estate broker and said sell everything. That was 16 years ago. “I’d heard about a shop that ‘maybe’ was for sale and I only wanted to work part-time in Santa Barbara. I came to Solvang to take a look. I liked what I saw so I bought it. Now I work full time and I am happy in my pseudo-retirement. “I love what I do and I enjoy all of my customers and friends tremendously. Nielsen’s Center is a perfect spot for me,” said Quintero. “My shop is the last male bastion in a fastpassed production world. For me it’s all about personal attention.” Carlos Hair Grooming for Men is located at 606 Alamo Pintado Road, Suite 4, Solvang. For more information, call 805-688-3220.

As spring approaches, allergies are nothing to be sneezed at By Dr. Hyun K. Lee Contributing Writer

ow that we are in the month of March we have seen winter come to a close and a gorgeous spring begin. The wildflowers are in bloom, temperatures are warming up, and allergens are Photo contributed in the air. Dr. Hyun K. Lee Spring, though a beautiful time, is primarily the season most people suffer from allergies. Most allergies come from pollen, weather changes, chemicals, food, dust, or pet dander. Regardless of if your allergies are seasonal or not, they can be cured with acupuncture and herbs. When allergies hit, the average person will likely reach for their allergy medication, antihistamine or cough syrup. While this method relieves your allergies for as long as the pill is active in your system, this does nothing to cure the root of the problem. In fact, it only worsens your longterm health. Avoiding your known allergens is effective as well, but still does not treat the cause. Allergies are caused by weakened organs and poor immune system memory. The root of allergies is not simply in the pollen or dander, but it is how your immune system has been, in effect, defaulted to react to these types of substances. Either by heredity or at some point in your life while your body was in a weakened state, your immune system decided to view the problematic substance as “bad”. Whenever that substance comes across your nose, your defenses go into action, and your allergies are in full swing. The trick to getting rid of your allergies is to reprogram your immune system. Your immune system is like your body’s military system. It fights and kills off invaders who try to break through their borders. It also serves as your body’s alarm system, much like a simple car alarm. When something goes wrong in your body, it sets off an “alarm” and lets you know that something is trying to break in. Your body’s reaction to most allergies is like those occasions when you simply walk by a car, and its alarm sounds; it’s an overactive, overly sensitive alarm that needs to be fixed — not turned off. The problem with long-term allergy medication use, is that it disconnects your body’s “alarm” and interrupts your ability to determine if you have a deeper problem. If someone is breaking into your car and no alarm sounds, how do you know there’s

a problem? By the time you realize, it might be too late. Let’s take a look at what is really happening in those moments when you reach for a tissue. The symptoms of allergies, like sneezing, a runny nose, watery or itchy eyes, for example, are not just instantly created in the moment you’re bothered by them. These fluids are actually the “essence” of your lung function. They serve the areas of your body, like the skin, which require this moisture. When your lung function is not working properly, this essence gets stored, and instead of going to where it is needed, it becomes stagnant. As we all know, stagnant fluids turn bad. In an effort to stop this, your body expels them through coughing, sneezing, congestion, running nose and watery, itchy eyes. During this time, you are more likely than not receiving ample oxygen. Limited oxygen intake immediately effects brain performance. In children, you see its effects with an inability to concentrate, diminished grades, and throat infection (from mouth-breathing). In adults, it is often brushed off as mental aging or general fatigue. Most allergy medications just exacerbate these problems. Treatment for allergies through Oriental medicine has been proven to be very successful. In as little as five consecutive treatments, your upper respiratory allergies can be cured for a year. With herbs and regular visits, allergies can be put off indefinitely, or cured altogether. These treatments are completely natural and have no side effects. They help balance the organs to keep your body free from disease, and help you maintain optimum health. Allergies really are nothing to be sneezed at. In fact, they can be something quite serious. Lasting allergies and frequent medication intake cause a domino effect to the organs, weakening them as the years roll by so that disease can take hold. Catching allergies at the onset of the problem is best, but if you can’t catch them at the beginning, it’s best to get off the medications and treat the root of the problem. As they say, better late than never. Dr. Lee’s office is located in the Viborg Medical Center, 2030 Viborg Road, Solvang. The clinic is held every Wednesday only. Dr. Lee also has ofﬁces in Los Angeles, and Atascadero. To make an appointment in the Solvang office, call 805-693-5162.

March 16 - April 5, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 11

Where is our water going?

Growing marijuana requires a lot of water, regardless of whether it is grown inside or outdoors. In California, where growers have decades of experience cultivating, plants still require about six gallons of water per plant each day. That adds up to almost 300 million gallons of water for each square mile of marijuana grow each growing season.1 That is almost double the amount of water wine grapes use annually, and about the same water consumed by almond orchards – which is recognized as contributing to aggravated water shortages here in California.2

Support common sense cannabis regulation today: sbcountycoalition.com 1. High Time for Conservation: Adding the Environment to the Debate on Marijuana Liberalization. BioScience 2015; 65 (8): 822-829. doi: 10.1093/biosci/biv083. 2. “Forget Almonds: Look at How Much Water California’s Pot Growers Use.” Washington Post. 26 June 2015.

12 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 16 - April 5, 2021

GENEALOGY TIPS

Make sure these books are in your genealogy library By Sheila Benedict Contributing Writer

s mentioned in the February 2021 column, it is time to post a good bibliography of needed books for a genealogy library. Some have posted in past columns, but it is important enough to warrant a repeat. I have attempted to list the latest editions, where available. There are many books for specific cities, counties, states. federal records and every country, and of course, there are book that discuss in detail a particular type of record. In particular, it is important to locate books or databases on the laws that govern the locale(s) of interest. Understanding those laws can certainly help when searching for particular records, such as probates, vital records, and more. Books written for outside the USA, where there is another language spoken and written, there are translations available online. Some of the following may be available as eBooks. It is suggested a search online be done to see if eBooks or other databases are available for particular texts of interest. Be safe, follow the guidelines, and be well. Until next month… Anderson, Robert Charles, FASG. Elements of Genealogical Analysis. Boston, Massachusetts: New England Historic Genealogical Society, 2014. [AmericanAncestors.org]

Benedict, Sheila. NGS Research in the States Series, California. Special Publication Number 114. Arlington, Virginia: National Genealogical Society, 2015. Bettinger, Blaine T. and Debbie Parker Wayne. Genetic Genealogy in Practice. Special Publications Number 120. Arlington, Virginia: National Genealogical Society, 2016. The Chicago Manual of Style, Seventeenth Edition, Chicago, Illinois: The University of Chicago Press, 2017. Freilich, Hay Haviland and William B.

FASHION CHATTER

Out with the old, hardly worn, or not needed and on to a new beginning By Sue Manning

Freilich. Genealogy and The Law: A Guide to Legal Sources for the Family Historian. NGS Special Topic Series. Arlington, Virginia: National Genealogical Society, 2014. Greenwood, Val. D. The Researcher’s Guide to American Genealogy, Fourth Edition. Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, 2017. Humphrey, John T. Understanding and Using Baptismal Records. Washington, DC: John T. Humphrey, 1996. [Mr. Humphrey is de-

FREE HAZ WASTE DAY PROVIDED BY YOUR RESOURCE RECOVERY & WASTE MANAGEMENT DIVISION OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

PLEASE NOTE: Masks are required at all times at the facility. Please remain in your vehicle and store waste in the trunk or other easily accessible location. Thank you!

Sunday, April 11 9 am - 2 pm

Contributing Writer

f you’re gearing up for a fashion adventure this season, what better place than in Solvang to lead the way with glamorous and fabulous takes since spring is here. There is a bright new appearance of softer dressing for true comfort and style. This is a good time to look over the clothes you haven’t worn or didn’t wear and donate them to a charity. Out with the old, hardly worn, or not needed and on to a new beginning. At Elna’s Dress Shop, we’ve had a tremendous response to our Slim-Sation pants and part of our special for the month of March is to register for a free pair There will be three pairs given away. Our customers are buying two to four pairs at a time. The pants are classy enough to wear out or wear leisurely. If you haven’ t tried them on yet, now is the time while selection of sizes is at its best. Remember to shop us for the THIRD WEDNESDAY of each month as we honor a 29% discount on all regular prices (does not include Danish costumes). This month also included 60% off our sales rack. Still some very

Free Household Hazardous Waste and Electronics Collection Event Santa Ynez Valley Recycling and Transfer Station 4004 Foxen Canyon Road Los Olivos, CA

good buys, although sizes are limited. Wardrobe building is a free service of Elna’s Dress Shop. Stop by and let any of our qualified staff assist in helping you. Remember, while seasonal trends can feel short lived, the best clothes are meant to be just the opposite — long-lasting basic colors that you can accent with a “pop of color.” Elna’s Dress Shop is open five days a week (Wednesday thru Sunday). Store hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Elna’s is located at 1673 Copenhagen Drive, Solvang. The phone number is 805-688-4525.

ceased so there are no updated versions] Jones, Thomas W. Mastering Genealogical Proof. Special Publications Number 107. Arlington, Virginia: National Genealogical Society, 2013. Kashuba, Melinda. Walking With Your Ancestors: A Genealogist’s Guide to Using Maps and Geography. Cincinnati, Ohio: Family Tree Books, 2005. Mills, Elizabeth Shown. Evidence Explained: Citing History Sources from Artifacts to Cyberspace. Third Edition Revised. Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, 2017. Morton, Sunny Jane and Harold A. Henderson, CG. How to Find Your Family History in U.S. Church Records: A Genealogist’s Guide. Has specific Resources for Major Christian Denominations before 1900. Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, 2019. Szucs, Loretto Dennis and Sandra Hargreaves Luebking. The Source: A Guidebook to American Genealogy, Third Edition. Provo, Utah: Ancestry, 2006

For more information call: (805) 882-3603 or visit us online at www.LessIsMore.org

Examples of household hazardous waste and electronics accepted: •

Automotive fluids (eg: antifreeze, motor oil, oil filters, etc.), batteries, cleaners, gardening supplies, fluorescent bulbs, needles, paint, pool chemicals, solvents, etc.

•

Computers, printers, fax machines, TVs, VCRs, DVD and CD players, radios, telephones, microwaves, etc.

•

Free for residents in the City of Solvang and unincorporated areas of Santa Barbara County. (Buellton residents should instead attend the City of Buellton's upcoming event on May 1.)

Household electronics are also collected for free during the Transfer Station’s normal hours of operation: Tues.-Sat., 8:30 am to 4 pm.

Sponsored by:

Visit Santa Barbara County’s Recycling Resource:

www.LessIsMore.org

March 16 - April 5, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 13

Easter Message

This Easter a chance to ask ‘where do we go from here? By Pastor Chris Brown Bethania Lutheran Church

love happy endings. My favorite film is “Forrest Gump” and it has a beautiful happy ending. The movie starts with Forrest as a little boy getting on the school bus for the first time as he begins his difficult journey in life and the film ends with Forrest walking his son to the same bus stop with all the confidence and love he can bestow upon him. What makes this ending so happy and meaningful is we get to see the struggle Forrest goes through to get to this point. He’s ridiculed for his perceived intellect, he loses his only friend in Vietnam, he loses his mother and biggest supporter, and he loses the love of his life in more ways than one. The peace he has at the end of the movie comes from so much struggle and resilience and remaining a kind and giving person throughout. The audience knows that not only does Forrest deserve it, but he’s aware of how meaningful it is too. No wonder the film won Best Picture at the Academy Awards in an amazing year for film. Easter is the happy ending for Chris-

tians. However, for a lot of Christians, it’s part of the story we try to rush to, often skipping over the cross and what we call “Good Friday.” There’s a part of the Easter story I particularly love: When Jesus resurrects from the dead, the first person he reveals himself to is Mary Magdalene, who is at his tomb weeping over his death. Unlike the rest of Jesus’ disciples, Mary did not run away when Jesus is arrested. She sticks with him, being at the foot of his cross while he breathes his last. While the men in Jesus’ entourage are cow-

ering for fear of their lives, here stands Mary, weeping over the person she loves most. I like to think Jesus appears to Mary first, not because she deserves it, but because his resurrection will bear the most meaning to her; because she witnessed the sorrow of his death so viscerally, she will experience his resurrection most powerfully. There is a moment after Jesus appears to Mary, where she is the only person in the world who knows he has risen — and I think Mary is the only person capable of holding

on to this truth alone, even if but for a moment. With this pandemic, our own Easter is on the horizon. When we finally get to this landmark of “post-COVID,” there will be a point where we need to ask “Where do we go from here?” For Jesus’ disciples, when they all witnessed his resurrection, they entered into a new world and asked where to go from there. What informed them was not to jump back into the way things were, but to reflect on what they had been through, including the stuff that was painful and a struggle. And their lessons were that in a world of inevitable pain and struggle, the central elements that create joy and beauty are love and compassion. As they ventured into a “post-resurrection” world, their ministry was centered on radical love and compassion, even in the midst of extreme pain and struggle, and I believe that’s the true hope of Easter. I hope therein lies some truth for all of us as we reflect on where we go from here.

During this challenging time, Cottage Health appreciates and honors physicians for their compassionate care, dedicated service and ongoing commitment to patients. Learn more at cottagehealth.org.

Dr. Gustavo Dascanio Chief of Staff

Dr. Sandra Wilson Vice Chief of Staff

Dr. Travis Mellon Secretary/Treasurer

14 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 16 - April 5, 2021

The Solvang Chamber of Commerce 100th anniversary Chamber presidents reflect on their experiences during tenures Staff Report

n Jan. 16, the Solvang Chamber of Commerce celebrated 100 years of serving the business community of Solvang. The Chamber began when six Solvang business owners created the Solvang Businessmen’s Association (SBA) which is the direct ancestor of today’s Chamber. The SBA was founded to help solve the infrastructure problems that the rapidly growing town of Solvang was experiencing as it went from 80 adults at its founding in 1911 to well over 800 residents and a growing downtown business district in 1921. It was the SBA that created the Solvang we know today. At the January 1947 meeting SBA President Ray Paaske presented the plan to honor the town’s heritage by building in the classic Danish “half-timber” style. The goal was to “help encourage tourism, encourage the establishment of new enterprises and in general to promote the welfare of the Town of Solvang.” These themes are still at the heart of today’s Chamber. Chamber President Linda Johansen (2004) took the reins at a time of financial challenge as tourism and travel was emerging from the 9/11 tragedy. “Being Chamber President was a wonderful experience that I treasure,” Johansen said. When asked about her proudest achievement, she said it was “starting the campaign for the redevelopment of Copenhagen Drive.” Asked about her proudest achievement, Susan Williams who was president in 2012-2013 replied, “it was helping the Chamber adapt and pivot as the economy suffered through the 2012 global economic crisis.” According to Chamber Executive Director Tracy Beard, “with Susan’s leadership, we added events like the Music in the Park that successfully drove traffic to the downtown area.”

Courtesy of the Elverhoj Museum of History & Art Main Street Photo 1919 before paving in 1920s.

Santa Ynez Valley Star photo Solvang's Music in the Park.

Santa Ynez Valley Star photo Jens Rasmussen, right, shown in the store late 1940s.

Santa Ynez Valley Star photo David Rasmussen is shown in front of the iconic Mission Revival Arches on Copenhagen Drive in 2021.

This is something echoed by three-time Chamber President John Martino (2011, 20172018). “We saw great growth in 2018 as tourism was at an all-time high,” Martino said. “But

the Chamber had learned from the past and continued to look for ways to ensure success continued.” When asked to name his proudest achievement, Martino said it was “how we increased

the diversity and uniqueness of the businesses which helps make Solvang a unique destination.” According to Tracy Beard, “that focus included a Tenant Mix Consultant Study and television commercials for which we won three Telly Awards – both of which came from which was the largest economic grant ever given to the Chamber at that time.” David Rasmussen and his family business epitomize the legacy of the Chamber. His great-uncle Aage Rasmussen joined the SBA in February 1921, one month after it was formed and was Chamber president in 1939. His grandfather Jens Rasmussen was SBA president in 1958. David’s father was on the newly renamed Solvang Chamber Board of Directors between 1966 and 1974, and David himself was Chamber president in 1987 and remains a member to this day. “The Chamber is where I learned how to be a businessman,” David Rasmussen said. “It’s also where I learned the importance of tourism which led to creation of the Solvang Visitors & Convention Bureau by the Chamber while I was president.” Today, the Chamber continues to look for ways to improve the local business environment. In addition to helping small businesses with “traditional” chamber services such as publicity and directories, today’s Solvang Chamber has also become a resource for accessing state and federal loans and grants in this ever-changing landscape of COVID-19 restrictions. The Chamber is also taking the lead on providing access to technology to help visitors and residents connect with and buy from our retailers and service providers. Later this quarter, businesses will have access to mobile apps, mobile shopping carts as well as state of the art communications using text and social media through the Chamber.

What clients are saying: "Deanna is the best! She was incredibly helpful guiding my fiance and I through our first home buying experience! She explained the process every step of the way, made everything easy and enjoyable, especially for first-time home buyers like us. She was always quick to respond, happy to help, and the most supportive and joyful agent and now friend! We recommend Deanna whole-heartedly!" If you or someone you know have questions about buying or selling real estate in the Santa Ynez Valley, please call, text or email me, I'd love to help.

Cell/ Text: (805) 325-1452 Harwood.Deanna@gmail.com www.DeannaHarwood.com 2933 San Marcos Ave., #102/PO Box 778 Los Olivos, CA 93441 DRE#00999839 • CalBRE#01317331

Behind Santa Ynez General

Wednesday through Sunday 10 am - 4 pm

March 16 - April 5, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 15

City of Solvang had trying times during its early establishment Elverhoj continues series celebrating Solvang's 110th anniversary Staff Report

lverhøj is honoring Solvang’s founding in 1911 and its 110th anniversary using the theme “Skål Solvang – Celebrating 110 Years of History & Culture.” This is the second in a year-long series of emails highlighting community milestones. Trying times for new Danish colony Perhaps one of the most astonishing aspects of Solvang is that it has survived where many larger, more established Danish communities in the United States did not. What most visitors and even long-time residents don’t know is how close the town came to collapsing in the years just after its idyllic beginning in 1911. Problems accumulated in a stealthy, devastating way. Weather, fiscal difficulties and misperceptions became serious problems. When the land sale was finalized in January 1911, the local hills were green and the Santa Ynez River flowed nearby. The land was beautiful but very different from what the Danes had been used to, whether they were coming from the Midwest, elsewhere in the U.S. or directly from Denmark. Despite heavy winter rains the first year, groundwater was hard to find and many test wells came up dry. The fall harvest was weak. The extended summer heat and dry spells made some settlers talk of leaving. Worse, the Danish American Colony (DAC) stock used to finance the purchase

Photos contributed By 1913, the nucleus of Solvang's downtown was growing. Gaviota Road (present day Alisal Road) is visible running through the middle of the town. New homes cluster at the right along Lompoc Road (Mission Drive).

Water for irrigation was a perennial problem. Most early residents practiced dry farming, growing crops during winter rains and letting the land lie fallow during dry summer months. Beans and grains grew best in these conditions.

of the land to establish the new town was not selling well. Verbal support remained strong, but the expected financial backing didn’t materialize. Land sales plummeted as

Financial Solutions for a Brighter Tomorrow

rumors flew that Solvang land was not well suited to agriculture. Even with a two-month extension, the DAC barely made the second $100,000 payment at the end of 1912.

The winter of 1912-13 brought a drought that led to yet another poor harvest, devastating the reputation of the fledgling colony, which was harmed further by unfounded stories of mismanagement. By August 1913, the DAC had managed to bring in only $15,000 for the year, far short of the $100,000 needed to fulfill its contract. Disaster loomed. Admitting defeat, the DAC directors were forced to return all unsold land – two-thirds of the 8,883-acre parcel – to the Santa Barbara Land and Water Company which put the land back up for sale. Nevertheless, they didn’t give up. The crisis led J.M. Gregersen, one of the town’s three founders, to step down as pastor to focus solely on finding the funds Solvang needed to survive. Gregersen pulled in every favor, twisted every arm and even traveled to the Midwest to find the money needed to save the new town. In just two months, he managed to find 25 investors who provided enough funds to buy back 5,828 acres, retire the debt, and settle with the investors. The town was now free and clear and in Danish hands as originally envisioned. Having averted failure, the town’s leaders focused on building a thriving community and the folk school at its heart. To learn more about the history of Solvang, visit www.elverhoj.org or follow them on social media.

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16 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 16 - April 5, 2021

Music Academy of the West Central Coast Film Society welcomes legal and financial earns GuideStar Gold Seal experts to Board of Directors of Transparency Staff Report

Seal represents highest level in openness in reporting finances

usic Academy of the West, a full-scholarship summer school and festival for classically trained musicians ages 18 to 34, has named two people to its Board of Directors. A shareholder at the law firm Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Gamble Parks Douville is a certified specialist in Estate Planning and Trust & Probate Law by the California Board of Legal Specialization. She serves as a member of the Board of Directors for Cottage Health System and the Santa Ynez Family School and is a past board member of the Music Academy of the West, Dog Adoption & Welfare Group (DAWG), the Santa Barbara Hospice Foundation, and the Santa Barbara Center for the Performing Arts. In 2012, Parks was named one of the South Coast’s “40 Under 40” business leaders by the Pacific Coast Business Times. As a member of the Board of Directors, Gamble will serve on the Advancement/Marketing and Communications, Governance and Audit committees. Parks and her husband, Gary, are raising their young son in the Santa Ynez Valley. “I was honored to be asked to return to the board and continue the academy’s tremendous work in the community,” Parks said. “The year-round effort to move the classical music industry forward is remarkable.” Also welcomed to the board was Bridget Foreman, CPA for Bartlett, Pringle & Wolf, LLP. Foreman integrates tax planning, compliance and consulting services for her clients as well as orchestrates the efforts of their other advisors, including investment managers, bankers and insurance agents. Located on a 10-acre oceanside campus in Santa Barbara, Music Academy of the West is a place where fellows study, perform and participate in public masterclasses with more than 70 exceptional faculty, teaching artists and guest speakers, as well

Staff Report

Gamble Parks

Photo contributed

as forge close connections with community members through a unique Compeer Program. Fellows and alumni receive invaluable career-advancement opportunities through the academy’s Innovation Institute and its partnerships with the London Symphony Orchestra and Beth Morrison Projects. Seminars and residencies explore entrepreneurial musicianship and the future of classical music, while the annual Alumni Enterprise Awards provide grants for a wide range of creative projects. Committed to expanding access to transformative music education and performances, in 2018 the Academy launched “Sing!,” a free, after-school choral initiative for local elementary school students. Community Access tickets are available for all academy events and free for those under 18 years old. For more information, visit musicacademy.org.

he Central Coast Film Society has received a 2021 Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar, a leading aggregator of nonprofit information. The Gold Seal is one of the company’s highest level of recognition, signifying openness in reporting institutional finances and performance. “Our support comes directly from our local Central Coast communities and so we, as a nonprofit organization, have a duty to be as transparent as possible for our supporters,” said Daniel Lahr, executive director for the film society. “GuideStar is one of the go-to places to check how nonprofits are doing, but GuideStar is also the way for us to be eligible to participate in programs such as AmazonSmile. That allows shoppers on AmazonSmile to support us with their everyday purchases.” Nonprofit organizations achieve gold status by providing extensive operational detail for their respective GuideStar profiles. The GuideStar database contains a profile for every tax-exempt nonprofit registered with the Internal Revenue Service. The Central Coast Film Society received 501(c)3 nonprofit status in April 2019, with a goal to provide local filmmakers and films a venue to call home, to foster future media artists, and to create opportunities to get involved in the industry by hosting lectures, screenings and eventually a film festival in the

Santa Ynez Valley. The film society has hosted several screenings of films that have connections to the Central Coast as well as a student film competition and talks with local filmmakers. In the fall of 2019, they hosted Central Coast native, comedian and “Star Wars” expert Ken Napzok. He just published a book, “Why We Love Star Wars: The Great Moments That Built A Galaxy Far, Far Away,” that also coincided with a screening of “Episode IV: A New Hope,” complete with 501st members storming the screening. The film society also started a podcast “Take 18,” which talks about all things film and media on the Central Coast with local filmmakers and documentarians, production and special effects directors, animators, stunt people, and many others that contribute to the industry. “We, like nearly everyone else, have had to adapt and change during the pandemic,” Lahr said. “’Take 18’ is how we can reach our supporters and still execute our mission. Podcasting is just the ticket for right now and allows for great interviews with industry professionals over the phone. It’s like our own little radio show!” The COVID-19 pandemic put a damper on the film society’s goal of hosting a film festival, however they did put on a fun drive-in movie experience with the City of Buellton showing “The Croods 2” film. Plans for the coming year include a virtual film festival as well as more podcast interviews. For more information, log onto www.centralcoastfilmsociety.org or follow CCFS on Instagram and Facebook.

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March 16 - April 5, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 17

Home gardens on the rise in SYV with pandemic Local nurseries see limited supply with people doing more gardens, landscaping By Raiza Giorgi

publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com

ot all the side effects of the lockdowns this past year were negative. Some people have found new talents and hobbies as a result of being forced to stay home, as their job went remote or having to be home with kids as they did distance learning. With the increase in people at home local nurseries have seen a huge uptick in garden sales and now seeds and plants. “Almost everything is in short supply, not just seeds,” said Bob Blokdyk, owner of Windmill Nursery in Buellton. “We have seen unprecedented high sales in everything edible since the pandemic began. The vegetable growers have had a hard time getting enough seed to meet the demands.” Blokdyk believes this might be a little like the toilet paper shortages where people were hoarding paper products, as some have also been hoarding seeds in preparation of bad times. “Fruit trees such as Citrus and Avocados take at least two to three years to grow and are sold out from most growers,” he added. “We have stopped taking orders for those for the time being.” Even ornamental plants are in demand as people are spending more time in their yards and updating their landscaping. Ron Griffin, owner of Manzanita Nursery in Solvang, said his business has seen an almost two-fold increase since the pandemic started. They grow native plants and have people coming in to learn more about drought tolerant plants to update their landscaping. “Wholesale and retail segments have increased as people are using their income on landscaping and home projects instead of vacation,” Griffin said. “People are working on yards which has been a dramatic increase in horticultural industry.” For Santa Ynez Valley local Lauren Iglesias, the lockdowns did give her time to put towards her passion of gardening and growing her own

Photos by Raiza Giorgi Manzanita Nursery in Solvang has seen a dramatic increase for their produce plants and trees as well as ornamental plants as people are spending more time gardening.

Photo contributed Valley local Lauren Iglesias loves her tower garden and teaching her kids to eat healthier.

food with her tower gardens. “I haven’t experienced any seed shortage yet, but I am definitely going to pay attention,” Iglesias said. Iglesias works as a hairstylist for a salon in Los Olivos and was not included in the “essential worker” category to continue working during the shutdowns. She was home helping her kids through school just as well and said that gardening gave her a good outlet and fun family time, teaching her kids about growing their own food. “We don’t have a lot of land, so the tower gardens are great for our space and it helps keep us healthy by growing our own produce,” Iglesias said. She said her kids love going to pick their produce and eat it off the tower. Iglesias has been doing aeroponic tower gardens for five years, when a client turned her on to them. “I fell in love with growing my own food and now have three towers,” she said. Iglesias orders her seeds mostly online and hasn’t seen any shortages, but she also uses her own seeds to restart some of her produce.

production of triticale seed, as the crop makes a bigger plant and produces more forage per acre. Its rise could reduce demand for wheat, barley and oats grown for forage. Production of alfalfa seed, grown mostly in the San Joaquin and Imperial valleys, has dipped due to lower demand from Saudi Arabia, although “that’s expected to rebound a little,” he said. Palmer said California production of malting barley has been increasing due to growing interest from craft brewers. Hemp seed, which spurred “a lot of interest” initially, has moderated as “reality has kind of set in” about its risks, he said. In California, the emphasis in that market has been on feminized seed production, he noted. In smaller-acreage crops, there’s been more interest in heritage grain varieties for bread baking and in organic heirloom bean varieties, Palmer said.

It is one trend that Patty Buskirk, managing partner of Seeds by Design in Colusa County, said is shaping her business, which produces seeds for home gardeners and commercial farmers. Buskirk said she expects 2021 will be another “banner” year in the seed market, one that matches 2020, particularly the segment that serves home gardeners and smaller farms. Though the home-gardening segment is a “very small portion” of the state’s seed acreage, Buskirk said, “there will be plenty of contracts available to growers” who want to produce seed for that market. Finding farmers willing to grow small acreages of seed for home-garden use has become harder, she noted, because those contracts are not as profitable as growing seed for commercial agriculture. The executive director of the California Crop Improvement Association and University of California, Davis, Foundation Seed Program, John Palmer, said he has observed a number of trends among field crops in recent years that could affect the state’s seed production landscape. For example, he said he expects more

Ching Lee contributed to this story. Lee is an assistant editor of Ag Alert for the California Farm Bureau Federation. She may be contacted at clee@cfbf.com.

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18 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 16 - April 5, 2021

In Loving

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Captain Jackson Pearson, 93, passed away on Sunday, January 31, 2021 surrounded by his family. He was born in San Pedro in 1927 and discovered his love of the ocean at 16. After many years working at sea, at 32, he became the youngest pilot at the Port of Los Angeles. He spent the remaining years at the port and piloted many ships in and out of the harbor. During this time, he also attended and graduated from Cal State Dominguez Hills and received a degree in anthropology. The last seven years of his career he became the chief port pilot until his retirement in 1990. He and his wife Edie moved to the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley in 1998 and they enjoyed many adventures as they traveled the world. Captain Pearson will be loving remembered by his wife of 48 years, Edie and his children, William (Debbie), Mark (Martha), Steve, John (Elizabeth), Monica (Dan) and Heidi (George). Jackson will also be fondly remembered by his four grandchildren, Joe, Cheyne, Brenna and Matt and great grandchild Jaden. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jackson's name may be made to the Santa Ynez Humane Society: https://www.syvhumane.org or the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission: www.sbrm.org.

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Farm Bureau supports cattle market transparency Bill focuses on ensuring robust regionally negotiated cash trade, more pricing information. Staff Report

he American Farm Bureau Federation is calling on lawmakers to require increased transparency in America’s cattle markets. AFBF supports the Cattle Market Transparency Act of 2021, sponsored by Sens. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). The bill focuses on ensuring robust regionally negotiated cash trade and providing producers with more pricing information. The Cattle Market Transparency Act aligns with the goals set forth by the AFBF Cattle Market Working Group in 2020, as well as new cattle marketing policy passed at Farm Bureau’s Virtual Annual Convention earlier this year. The Cattle Market Working Group, comprised of 10 state Farm Bureau presidents, spent more than two months investigating factors that led to market disruptions following the Holcomb packing plant fire and the COVID-19

pandemic. “America’s ranchers don’t control the prices they are paid for their products and those raising livestock have legitimate questions about pricing,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “When the pandemic hit, meat prices at grocery stores went up while the prices paid to farmers fell through the floor. “This legislation will ensure farmers and ranchers have fair access to markets and are fully informed on pricing so they can continue to put food on the table in homes across the country. We appreciate Senator Fischer and Senator Wyden for introducing the Cattle Market Transparency Act of 2021 and look forward to working with members of the House on a companion bill introduction.” For more information, please contact Mike Tomko at miket@fb.org or Bailet Corwine at baileyc@fb.org.

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March 16 - April 5, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 19

Irish Champ is a contender for your dining table By Vida Gustafson

cover with water by at least one inch. Add

Contributing Writer

1 tbsp salt and bring to gentle boil. Cook

hamp is a lesser known brother to colcannon. Whereas colcannon is a mashed potato dish featuring kale or cabbage, champ is traditionally made with green (aka “spring”) onions and served with a well of Irish butter in the center for dipping each forkful of mash into, and is more common in the northern counties. Variations of champ use leeks, wild garlic, ramps or nettles. While you might serve this as a comforting side dish, many view champ as a meal in itself. Potatoes sometime get a bad rap, but they are in fact high in nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, folate and magnesium and contain at least three antioxidant compounds. The benefits of real butter are numerous, such as being rich in calcium and vitamin D. Add in the scallions with their vitamin K and A, just to name a few, and you have a well-rounded filling meal on a cold day.

Ingredients n 2 lbs potatoes n 2 C green onion (chopped)

for 30 minutes, or until fork-tender. While they are boiling away, finely slice your green onions and combine them in a small saucepan with the milk, bring to a simmer and gently cook for 4 minutes, then turn the heat off, cover and set aside to use later. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain the water off and let the potatoes cool slightly, then, using a dishtowel so as not to burn your hand, peel the skin off the potatoes. Return the potatoes to the pot you boiled them in and mash, if you do not have a potato masher, I’ve found a whisk does a really good job. Season the potatoes with Photo By Vida Gustafson Irish Champ is traditionally made with green (aka "spring") onions and served with a well of Irish butter in the center for dipping each forkful of mash into.

n 1 C whole milk (or half & half) n salt and pepper n 4 oz butter (approximately 1 oz per serving)

salt and pepper to your liking, heat up the milk gently again and add it to the potatoes. Create a small indent into the center

Method

of the mash and place a knob of golden

Scrub the potatoes and place in a large pot,

grass fed butter there. Serve warm.

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20 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 16 - April 5, 2021

Winery ownership changes, local restaurants switch up service By Laurie Jervis

Noozhawk Columnist

olvang’s Ranch Church buys Shoestring Vineyard on Highway 246 The Ranch Church, based in Solvang, has a new outdoor site for worship and special events — Shoestring Vineyard & Winery, on which the church closed escrow in December 2020. Shoestring is located at 800 E. Highway 246, east of Buellton. Two Santa Ynez Valley eateries reopen with expanded hours, menus Two newer restaurants, one in Buellton and the other in Los Olivos, have announced new hours, staffing changes and expanded menus to coincide with Southern California’s recent return to outdoor dining. Along with other area restaurants, the two had been restricted to takeout food since early December. Los Olivos’ Nella Kitchen & Bar, which held a soft opening in September, reopened its doors at 2860 Grand Ave. earlier this month with an expanded menu and hours. The Tavern at Zaca Creek, at 1297 Jonata Road north of Buellton, had its soft opening in August, and now has additional menu offerings and a new executive chef. First, The Tavern: Before the coronavirus turned the restaurant industry upside down, chef Cullen Campbell relocated to this region from Phoenix, where he had resided for several years and earned acclaim for (the now closed) Café Crudo/Bar Pesce and its sister eatery, Okra. In 2012, Crudo was named “Best New Restaurant” by Phoenix Magazine, and in 2013,

Photo contributed Among the highlights at Los Olivos' Nella Kitchen & Bar are the eatery's Roman pinsas, featuring seasonal toppings.

Cullen was invited to cook for guests at the prestigious James Beard House in New York City; also that year, he was named Chef of the Year by the Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame. At The Tavern in Buellton, Cullen hopes to showcase both his old-world French and Italian influences, and focus on signature dishes such as crispy duck with crêpes, date duck sauce and pickled mustard seeds; or beef heart tartare with shallot vinaigrette, golden raisins and celery salad. He looks forward to inspiration by wines sourced from the vineyards that surround the restaurant in the greater Santa Ynez Valley. Cullen’s spring menus at The Tavern at Zaca Creek launched this month.

The Zaca Creek property figures into Buellton’s history, with lineage dating back to the community’s founding. The site, originally a tavern and restaurant built by Jim Buell (as in “Buell-ton”), has been resurrected after nearly 20 years of dormancy. The historic Buellton property includes six boutique inn suites, also now open. Stephen Villa, Zaca Creek’s general manager and wine director, is a Santa Barbara County native and has spent more than 14 years in the region’s cellars and vineyards. Also new at The Tavern is a happy hour menu, available from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, as well as Sunday brunch ser-

vice from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. It serves dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday Later this year, Zaca Creek plans to open a second dining option, The Treehouse, an open-air deck and outdoor kitchen that encircles a grand oak tree. All-day dining items will be paired with lively cocktails. For more information and reservations, call 805.688.2412 or email reservations@zacacreek.com. In Los Olivos, Nella Kitchen & Bar reopened on Feb. 11 for outdoor dining and takeout orders. The venue, inside the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn, shares a hospitality team with S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez. Nella opened last September, and its reopening will include an all-day dining menu for both lunch and dinner in its spacious outdoor dining space. Restaurant hours are from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday through Monday; the bar is open from noon to 10 p.m. those same days. Nella is closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Executive chef/owner Luca Crestanelli leads the team at Nella, which features all-day dining, including bar snacks; starters and salads; meat, fish and shellfish entrees; and Roman pinsas with seasonal toppings. Nella Kitchen & Bar is part of the Toscana Restaurant Group, which includes Los Angeles’ Toscana and Bar Toscana, Nerano and BG Lounge in Beverly Hills and Santa Ynez’ S.Y. Kitchen. To reach the restaurant, click here, call 805.686.1359 or follow @nellakitchenbar on Instagram.

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We will save you the time and effort it takes to go out and pick up a copy of the Star. Now you can sit back and let us come to you. Delivery service of our free publication is $48 per year. Your subscription will begin with the first issue after payment is received and continue for one year there after. To subscribe, email amberly@santaynezvalleystar.com, go online to www.santaynezvalleystar.com, or fill out Local singer the form below and mail to PO Box 1594, Solvang, CA 93463: showcases talentspells beyondsuccess Shotgun years BehindTheLens for her NAME: _____________________________________________________________ local woman March 7 - 20, 2017 • Vol. 2, No. 3

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Ashley Carroll travels news@santaynezvalleystar.com een Star Santa Barbara judge Catherine Remak thought there the world to compete was a typo next to Elizabeth Padfield’s name because her maturity and depth of range were astounding during the competition in trap shooting on Feb. 25 at the Arlington Theatre.

Sunrise Armour Ranch Road photo by George Rose, photo graphic by Aimée Reinhart Avery

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ore than 100 people turned out for a recent community meeting organized by a group opposed to the “Camp 4” property in Santa Ynez becoming part of the Chumash reservation. Members of the Santa Ynez Valley Coalition, which was created to defeat legislation that would take the rural land “into trust” for the tribe, focused on land use and preserving the valley’s rural character. At the meeting on April 27 at the Solvang Veteran’s Memorial Hall, coalition members recounted the history of land-use master plans called the Valley Blueprint and the Valley Plan and said they would release more information in the coming weeks, organizers said. The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians announced in January that the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) had placed the tribe’s 1,390 acres known as “Camp 4” into federal trust. “Camp 4 is officially part of our reservation so we can begin the process of building homes on the property for tribal members and their families and revitalizing our tribal community,” Tribal Chairman Kenneth Kahn said in a prepared statement that was part of that announcement. The tribe bought the Camp 4 property in 2010 from late actor, vintner and hotelier Fess Parker, and they soon began the process of placing the land into federal trust, which makes it part of the tribe’s sovereign nation. Those efforts have been loudly opposed

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Staff Repo rt

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2886 M o CAMP 4 CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 e ission Drive • Santa Yn ez Solvan g • 805- Valley elranc homar 688 43 ket.com 00 2886 Mission Drive • Solvang • 805-688-4300 o

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“Your voice is the instrument and I felt like we were in the 1930s,” by Raiza Giorgi Remak said. news@santaynezvalleystar.com Elizabeth, 12, a seventh-grader at Solvang Elementary School, ultimately didn’t win the competition but she definitely left an impression on the hundreds of people who came to see the performances. Nolan shley Carroll does everything she Montgomery can keep her concentration betweenof Dos Pueblos High School was crowned the winner. “Being and on stage was mind blowing and I had such a great time. rounds by wearing dark glasses Performing is about bringing a smile to people’s faces, and that’s what I listening to music as she pushes through each strive for when I perform,” Elizabeth said. trap-shooting match. She’s no stranger to the stage as she has performed in the valley for His career includes images of natural disasHer process is definitely working, because Story by Raiza Giorgi various the national anthem at Fourth of July and porters, Super Bowls and Hollywood’s the biggest 22-year-old from Solvang won her functions-singing first Photos by George Rose traying Mary Poppins in last year’s production with the Arts Outreach celebrities. World Cup gold medal in Acapulco on March Summer Theater. Rose started his professional journey 19. more This popular eorge Rose loves to post pictures of the than 40 years ago when he was in college, “I keep my pre-shooting routine going and event along with Teen Dance Star are now in their seventh to season of crowning hardworking students, and creator and executive Santa Ynez Valley landscape, especially studying art history. He fell into photography I’ve met with sports psychologists help me Photo contributed producer Lambert, a former valley resident, talks about his efforts. along Armour Ranch Road where new while he was a copy messenger for the withProgmy mental focus and staying calm.Joe It can Solvang native Ashley Carroll father, Charlie “I am to really and humbled bycredits their her hard work andCarroll, what’swith instilling in her the love of shooting clays and a blacktop paving contrasts starkly with the epic ress Bulletin, a small newspaper in Pomona. be hard when you have people talking you impressed sense of responsibility and safety around firearms. really amazing landscape of meadows and mountains beyond it. “I used to hang out with the sportsbetween editors,matches, and I really try to pick a is they set their goals to get into the show, or into the top 10 and they keep pursuing their dreams,” Lambert However, his stunning landscapes are just and they helped me with my interestsong in phoand focus on it,” Carroll said. or participating in league events.said. My friends Union High School Carroll has been attending Star drew all around Santa “retirement photos” for Rose, who made an tography. I would make the plates on plastic, Carroll has been trap shooting This sinceyear’s she Teenwould wantcontestants me to go tofrom a party with them andBarbara the University of Colorado and working on at the Arlington Theatre. The finalists award-winning career in photojournalism that which would get transferred onto thewas printing in second grade. It was anCounty activityperforming that I their knewhearts if I didout I wouldn’t get enough rest or her general education. She believes this will weredid Jillian GarnettgetofinSan Marcos School (12th Grade), Elizabeth spanned from the days of spending hours with equipment, and back then it was theshe cusp of her father, Charlie Carroll, and togethtrouble andHigh not be allowed to shoot,” be a big year for her shooting. She moved to of SolvangCarroll Schoolsaid. (7th Grade), James McKernan of BishopColorado Springs to be close to the Olympic film in the darkroom to the more immediate the turning point of technology,” Rose said.is now the coach for thePadfield er. He Santa Ynez High School (12th Trujillo of Dos Pueblos High gratification of making and manipulating digital In the late 1970s and early 1980s Valley Rose Sportsman Association’sDiego Scholastic Trap Grade), shootingNicole has also allowed her to Training Center, which is also the headquarPhoto Daniel Dreifuss (11th Grade), Daniel Geiger of Pioneer Valley High School images. spent six years as a staff photographer forTarget the byProgram, Clay in whichSchool hundreds participate in a sport and travel all around the (11th ters for USA Shooting. She placed second Seventh-grader Padfield of Solvangtwice wowedfor theacrowd with her rendition of “Summertime” by Georgeprimarily Gershwin. The judges were stunned to HeElizabeth has been nominated Pulitzer Los Angeles Times, focused in the of kids from all around the Central Coast world for competitions. TEEN Recently went toON PAGE for the learn her age and said her vocal talents were astounding. STAR she CONTINUED 11 2016 Olympic team trials and is still Prize. entertainment industry. He has photographed participate. Azerbaijan, a former Soviet republic east of deciding if she wants to go for the next Olym“Photojournalism is such an admirable profes- figures from Elizabeth Taylor, Zsa Zsa“He and wouldn’t let me shoot until I could Turkey. pic tryouts. sion because it can really capture the story for Eva Gabor to Meryl Streep, Sidney hold Poitier, the gun up on my own for a good “It was a beautiful country and one of the “A highlight for me was meeting Kim the reader. I was really lucky to have my career amount of time. We would set up boxes in the cleanest places I’ve been to. The streets were Rhode, who has been an inspiration to women GEORGE ROSE CONTINUEDliving ON PAGE 20 and I would practice for hours in the heyday of print journalism,” Rose said. room impeccable and the people were beyond hosin shooting. After talking to her it became until I was ready,” Carroll said. pitable,” she said. really clear to me that I can achieve this as She she believes that more kids should take Carroll also won bronze in the HH Sheikha well,” Carroll said. lessons and learn their way around a gun. Fatia Bint Mubarak Women’s International Rhode became the first athlete to win an “Guns actually kept me out of trouble, beShooting Championship in the United Arab individual medal during six consecutive sumcause every Friday night and most weekends Emirates on April 13. SHOOTING CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 my dad and I were at the trap range practicing Since graduating from Santa Ynez Valley

George Rose loves taking photos of Santa Ynez Valley landscapes like this Happy Canyon rainbow shot.

ry Tim

by Raiza Giorgi

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ary Eve

FIRST-GRA

SYV coalition says Camp 4 impacts larger than they seem

by Raiza Giorgi

ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________

e Com pliment

SCHOOL

o THANKFUL

— Jose — Coli n — Jaxs on D ON PAGE 28

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March 16 - April 5, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 21

SYV Cottage Hospital Foundation offering $3,000 scholarships to pursue health careers Staff Report

he Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Foundation is offering $3,000 scholarships to high school graduating seniors and continuing college students residing in the Santa Ynez Valley, who are pursuing studies and careers in a health or medical-related field. Applications for 2021 scholarships are now being accepted

through Friday, March 19, 2021. The Ann Bertero Scholarship Fund and the Jean Pack Scholarship Fund are made possible by generous donations from the families of these long-time Hospital Auxiliary volunteers. In 2019, SYVCH Foundation gave a total of $9,000 in scholarships presented to three honorees. All scholarship applicants must meet the following requirements: currently reside in the Santa Ynez Valley, plan to enter the health or medical-related fields, have a letter of acceptance to an accredited college or university, submit a one-page typed essay articulating

• Licensed Vocational Nurse • Certified Nursing Assistant • Health Aide

academic and professional goals, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and provide at least one letter from a volunteer supervisor verifying community service. Previous recipients of this scholarship are eligible and may apply again. Applications received after March 19, 2021, will not be accepted. Scholarship winners will be contacted in April. The scholarship application form and complete instructions

can be found here: www.cottagehealth.org/syvchf Founded in 1978, SYVCHF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to develop, manage and channel financial support on behalf of Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital, serving not only to protect but also to enhance the hospital as a valuable community asset. SYVCHF has supported many significant hospital initiatives including patient care programs, capital equipment and facility infrastructure upgrades.

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22 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H March 16 - April 5, 2021

SYHS sports return elates coaches, students School also competing in esports By Raiza Giorgi

publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com

he Santa Ynez Valley Union High School Pirates will once again be marauding the fields for various outdoor sports starting this month, as health officials have given the green light to once again “play ball.” Santa Ynez Valley Union High School Athletic Director Ashley Coelho announced upcoming schedules for several fall sports including boys and girls water polo, football and girls volleyball held outdoors. “Staying positive and pushing through challenging times paid off,” Coelho wrote on her social media. “Keep the hope and we will keep continuing the good fight.” The first games that will start are for boys water polo and Head Coach Jake Kalkowski said they are so ready to get in the water and play. “We just scrimmaged to get out the kinks and k0nowing this is now leading to a real game brought the energy of the team,” he said. “It was so great to see their morale up. I have to hand it to the team being so dedicated even when it didn’t look like there would be a light at the end of the tunnel. They stuck with it and here we are.” The first game was Saturday, March 6, against Paso Robles. (RESULTS HERE) Varsity football Head Coach Josh McClurg said his players are excited to finally get back on the playing field and recently started practicing with helmets and pads. “We got here by never giving up, and that is how I coach,” he said. “You can only control what you are committed to and these kids are so resilient. Quitting is a learned behavior and we aren’t quitters.” The football season starts Friday, March 19, at Lompoc High School and the first home game will be March 26 against Santa Barbara High. While the games are starting, spectators will be limited to only immediate household members of the players and those in attendance are asked to ensure social distancing between families, said Dr. Van Do-Reynoso of Santa Barbara County Public Health. The Pirates have been conditioning and staying ready to play since last fall, as Coelho submitted a 30-page business proposal this summer to the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department to get the athletes back to campus for workouts. High school sports will be

Photo by Daniel Dreifuss Landon Lassahn of the SYHS Pirates Waterpolo team making a pass during the game against San Marcos High School.

Photo contributed SYHS Pirates esports team.

doing a modified schedule and delayed seasons. Because of COVID-19, CIF officials have taken three seasons of sports and condensed it to two seasons of sports. Originally the fall sports were supposed to start in December, but the rising COVID-19 case count prevented that from happening. At the beginning of the year, McClurg was concerned that if games didn’t start by March they would never have a season and their players would get left out of critical statistics they need to get noticed by scouts and colleges. A lot of the players attended the “Let Them Play” rally held on Jan. 15 at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. The rally saw players from not only Santa Ynez, but Lompoc, Santa

Barbara, Bishop Diego and other high schools. The “Let Them Play” movement was conceived to convince Gov. Gavin Newsom to allow high school student athletes to return to competition and the importance of youth sports. “When school was shut down last March, our senior athletes were for the most part almost through all the seasons, and they have their junior games to show their growth year over year. That’s what scouts and recruiters look at,” McClurg explained. So last year’s juniors who are seniors this year only have their junior records and some kids who literally grew and gained muscle mass haven’t been able to showcase their skills, McClurg added.

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While outdoor sports are coming back, Santa Ynez High School has also become one of the 100 CIF Southern Section schools registered to compete in the 2021 esports season. At Santa Ynez, 23 students have registered to play for the Pirates, according to Coelho. The team is scheduled to start competition in March. Jason Finley is the head coach of the Santa Ynez esports team. He also coaches girls basketball and is an assistant on the varsity football team. He’ll be assisted by Coelho, Greg Gandolfo and Sara Ovadia. Gandolfo also serves as an assistant football and baseball coach; Ovadia coaches boys and girls golf, and JV girls basketball. The Santa Ynez team will compete in the video games “Rocket League,” “Madden 21” and “League of Legends.” The other multiplayer esports games they could choose to play were “Smite” and “FIFA 21.” Santa Ynez team members Jackson Ollenburger, Stone Wright and Aidan O’Neill said they are happy about the choice of games. The sophomores play at least one of them. “I’ve been playing ‘Madden 21’ since 2016, 2017,” Ollenburger said. O’Neill also is an aficionado of the popular video football game: “I’ve played for about five years. I play ‘Rocket League’ a little bit as well.” “Rocket League” is described as a “hybrid of arcade-style soccer and vehicular mayhem.” Wright said he is a regular “Rocket League” player. The three gamers were active in the Santa Ynez sports program before the pandemic hit. Wright plays basketball, baseball and volleyball, O’Neill plays basketball and baseball, and Ollenburger plays basketball. All three said they will continue to play those sports when they resume. “I wanted to get involved with esports because real life sports were up in the air,” O’Neill said. “Ms. Coelho has done a really good job setting this up for us.” “My classroom is all set up with the equipment, but students can also play at home,” Coelho said. “They can use their laptop or any console to play. The only thing they can’t use is their cellphone.” To see the schedules for the various sports visit www.syvpirates.org and click on Athletics.

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spective of the ceremony,” Redmond said. Another wedding couple asked for guests to bring board games to their reception at Plenty on Bell in Los Alamos, since dancing is not allowed. Couples are also keeping their budgets healthy and trying to support as much local vendors as they can, which Redmond said is a great way for the industry to remain intact until the bigger ceremonies and receptions can happen. “A lot of people have their hearts set on getting married in wine country and it might not be what they originally dreamed of, but everything they wanted in a different way,” Redmond said. One bride she is consulting with pushed her wedding to summer to accommodate her mother being able to get the COVID-19 vaccines in time, but her mother is still even hesitant to come, which creates a difficult situation. “She is in tears of thinking that her mother might not be coming,” Redmond said. “Hopefully we can get it worked out and several options available by that time Photo by Amber Dolyak Photography to ensure her mother’s health and safety.” Newlyweds Jaimie and Jacob Gordon asked their guests to bring The Santa Barbara County Public board games to their reception at Plenty on Bell, as dancing was Health Department just issued new guide- not permitted. lines on indoor ceremonies, that they can have 25 percent of the building’s capacity lawed,” Redmond said. for in-person ceremonies. Large recepShe does have monthly meetings with tions are still not allowed and neither is local weddings and event industry prodancing. fessionals with the County Public Health “It almost feels like we are in the movie department to get the most up to date ‘Footloose’, where dancing was outguidelines of what they can and can’t do.

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