Santa Ynez Valley Star May A 2021 by Santa Ynez Valley Star

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May 4 - May 17, 2021

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Despite COVID-19 challenges, Santa Ynez Pirate athletes excel and surpass several school records By Raiza Giorgi

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abitha Pearigen’s day starts at 5:30 a.m. when she wakes up to get to her first swimming practice at the Santa Maria Swim Club by 5 a.m. Then she drives to Santa Ynez Valley Union High School for her regular swim practice before school. “I love swimming because it’s such a competitive sport and seeing my opponent in the next lane next to me motivates me to be better,” Tabitha said. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions and the threat of not even having a sports season this year, several SYHS athletes have overcome those obstacles to break school records. Tabitha, 16, of Solvang, is shattering school records in swimming. The first record she broke was 100-meter backstroke, the day before the lockdowns started in March 2020. “Honestly last year was such a rollercoaster of emotions,” she said. “I have had my eyes on several records for a long time and having such a great win and then not allowed to swim the next day was weird.” This year, Tabitha broke the 500-meter freestyle record, set in 2000 by Deanna Lowry. Tabitha ended up swimming a time of 5:26.07. She also broke the 200 freestyle with a time of

Photo by Daniel Dreifuss Tabitha Pearigen, 16, of Solvang, is shattering school records in swimming. The first record she broke was in the 100-meter backstroke her freshman year, and she recently broke the 500-meter freestyle mark.

1:58.35 and broke her first record in the 100 backstroke in 55.93 on April 22. Tabitha has been swimming for as long as she can remember, but started competitively swimming at age 11. “Swimming to me is like no other,” she said. “Being in the water is the best feeling and I like to set goals for myself and meet them.” Tabitha never let shutdowns and not being able to go to campus stop her from her goals of breaking swimming records. She exercised on her own at home, and even had her mom take her to the

beach to swim in the ocean to keep up her skills. “My coaches this year have been amazing and keeping my mental game positive,” she said. “I love my talks with Coach Jake (Kalkowski) and he gives me disciplined workouts tailored to me. I can’t thank our coaches enough for fighting for us.” Tabitha’s coaches also encouraged her to try water polo and she has really gotten into the sport. “I really like water polo; it came easy to me,” she said. “I just had to learn the technique and moves, but being in the water with my friends is

so fun.” Aside from Tabitha’s accomplishments, several other Pirate players have set new records in their sport. Also in swimming, Max Pecile set the record in 500 freestyle with a time of 4:50.48 on April 22, and later in the same meet he broke his own 100 backstroke record in 55.93. In football, Pirate quarterback Bennett Redell set the Santa Ynez career passing touchdown record in a 67-0 rout of Cabrillo in the final spring football game of the season April 16. Redell threw four TD passes in the game, giving him 39 in his three-year varsity career. He had 11 passing touchdowns during the five-game 2021 season. Logan Ast, who had a monster season running the ball, credits his success to putting all his efforts into training and his coaches and teammates that helped him keep focus. “I felt like unfinished business from last year,” Ast said. “I went into this year to prove to myself if I stayed working out and driven I could improve. Doing just that I think is the reason I think I did good and now have an opportunity to play next year.” In the game against Cabrillo, Ast caught four passes for 110 yards, including three for touchdowns. He also threw a 42-yard TD pass to SY PIRATES CONTINUED TO PAGE 23

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Local governments ask SYV residents to cut back on water usage By Raiza Giorgi

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s Santa Barbara County only received 50 percent of average annual rainfall, local cities and community service districts are asking Santa Ynez Valley residents to voluntarily cutback their water usage. The City of Solvang recently declared a stage one drought emergency, which will call for a voluntary cutback of 15% usage. The City Council also approved purchasing of supplemental water. Buellton is also monitoring its water consumption and time will tell if the community doesn’t voluntarily conserve water. “The drought does continue in California yet another year. I’m working with my water staff who’s been watching the consumption trends in town,” said Rose Hess, public works director/ city engineer for the City of Buellton. “Our primary emphasis will be community outreach to reduce water usage and conserve as much as possible. We will monitor the consumption trends. We don’t

want to go to mandatory reductions.” Santa Ynez River Water Conservation District, Improvement District #1 (ID1) officials say they have maintained a non-emergency designation since 2017, which asks for 10% water voluntary reduction. The designation prohibits water runoff from customer properties; landscape irrigation within 48 hours of measurable rainfall; requirement to equip water hoses with automatic shutoff devices; no washing streets, parking lots, driveways, or sidewalks except as needed for health or sanitation purposes; encouraging restaurants, hotels, cafes, and other public establishments to provide water only upon request; and encouraging hotels to display water conservation signs and provide guests with options for not having towels and linens laundered daily. “These types of conservation measures have been very effective throughout ID No.1, where over the last several years our total annual water demands have trended below historic averages,” said Paeter Garcia, general manager of ID1.

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Photo contributed Santa Barbara County Parks was granted a Private Stocking Permit for up to 16,000 pounds of triploid rainbow trout for the 2020-21 season.

Cachuma Lake releases 4,000 pounds of rainbow trout Staff Report

achuma Lake is alive with color! The grass is green, wildflowers are blooming and there are rainbows in the water — rainbow trout to be specific. In cooperation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Santa Barbara County Parks was granted a Private Stocking Permit for up to 16,000 pounds of triploid rainbow trout for the 2020-21 season. The final 4,000-pound delivery just arrived, and just in time for the spring and summer season. Everything an angler needs is available for rent or purchase at the Cachuma Lake Marina and Boat Rentals, which also offers pontoons, outboards and kayak rentals, as well as one-day and annual fishing licenses. Fishing from shore in the recreation area or from a boat is open year-round with a valid fishing license. For those who plan to bring their own boating

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vessels: Due to the 30-day quagga restrictions at the lake, boats must be inspected and tagged by Cachuma Lake staff at least 30 days prior to your visit. Cachuma Lake allows same-day launching for kayaks, canoes and “simple boats”. To review vessel requirements and launching protocols, please visit https://www.countyofsb.org/parks/ cachumaboating.sbc. Visitors are advised to check recreation area hours, and road and weather conditions in advance. For up-to-date fishing tips and summaries, check out the Cachuma Lake Weekly Fishing Report at www.countyofsb.org/parks/cachumafishing.sbc. For more information, contact the marina at 805-688-4040. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area is a full-service campground offering year-round cabin, yurt, RV and tent camping, recreational activities, nature programs for all ages and, of course, rainbow trout fishing. For reservations and more information, visit www.sbparks.org.

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Kristin Smart case thrust back into the spotlight with recent arrests

Local podcast host Chris Lambert has helped unravel the almost 24-year-old unsolved case of missing Cal Poly student Kristin Smart, pushing it back into public view.

Longtime suspect Paul Flores and his father were taken into custody last month By Raiza Giorgi

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or almost 25 years, the disappearance of Kristin Smart has been consistently covered in local news outlets since the 19-year-old Cal Poly freshman went missing in May 1996 after a night out. When Orcutt native Chris Lambert decided to do a podcast recapping and getting new information and timelines of the case as it followed the longtime alleged person-of-interest Paul Flores, the last known person to be with Smart the night she disappeared. The podcast has now garnered international interest, and local authorities said it aided in their case to be able to arrest not only Paul Flores, but his father, Ruben Flores, in mid-April. “I wanted people to connect with her as a person, not just a face on a billboard,” Lambert said in an interview with the Star in March 2020. “A lot of people thought she had been found,

Photos contributed The now 44-year-old San Pedro resident Paul Flores, left, was charged in San Luis Obispo County Superior Court with murdering Kristin Smart in 1996. Ruben Flores, 80, Paul's father, is accused of helping his son cover up the crime including possibly moving Smart's body.

or never knew anything more had been done to solve her disappearance.” Lambert believed the Cal Poly police and the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office made crucial oversights in the beginning of the case that led to it being open for so long. In his eight-episode podcast “Your Own Backyard,” Lambert put a timeline together and interviewed several witnesses not previously known to authorities, according to Sheriff Ian Parkinson during the arrest press conference. “The podcast led to our interviewing a previous unknown witness and with the Sheriff’s court order we intercepted cell phone and text messages,” Parkinson said in the briefing. “In February of 2020 we served search warrants at the homes of the sister, mother (Susan Flores) and father (Ruben Flores) and gained physical evidence that led to the service of additional search warrants in April.” He added while they have not recovered Smart, they continue to focus on finding where she is. Paul Flores, now a 44-year-old San Pedro

resident, was charged in the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court with murdering Smart in 1996. Ruben Flores, 80, Paul’s father, is accused of helping his son cover up the crime, including possibly moving Smart’s body. They were arrested April 13, following law enforcement searches of several properties, including Ruben Flores’ home in Arroyo Grande. For two days, police were seen taking many pieces of evidence, cutting concrete in the garage, and taking apart the deck, digging underneath it. The month before, investigators took an old Volkswagen and had cadaver dogs. “Significant new information has come in to the Sheriff’s Office that we reviewed over the past two years, and some very important information just a month ago,” said San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow. Dow said investigators, including lead cold case detective Clint Cole, believe they know where Smart’s body was taken, but he didn’t give any more information. He also said Ruben Flores assisted in hiding Smart’s body.

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“The D.A.’s Office has carefully reviewed the case and independently determined sufficient evidence exists to proceed with the case,” Dow said. Dow asked the public for information they may have about Flores committing additional crimes such as “assaults or other acts,” which the District Attorney’s Office believes have occurred. Dow was asked during that press briefing whether a murder prosecution taking place in the past without a corpse as evidence is difficult. Dow answered there was a similar case involving the murder of a senior citizen by her grandson was successfully prosecuted years ago. Dow added a no-body prosecution is possible with sufficient evidence and helps bring closure to the family. Both Floreses pleaded not guilty to the counts of murder and accessory at their first court appearance April 19. The judge ruled Paul Flores will stay in jail without bail, and after an additional hearing April 21, Ruben Flores’ bail was reduced from $250,000 to $50,000. Additionally, Superior Court Judge Craig van Rooyen approved a defense request for a gag order preventing parties involved — including Parkinson and Dow — from making any public statements regarding the proceedings outside the courtroom. The Smart family released a statement opposing any bail for either of the Floreses. “Our family strongly opposes any bail being offered to Paul Flores,” the family stated. “Given the charges filed against him that he murdered our daughter, sought and received help from his father, Ruben, and then the two collaborated to hide her and deny any knowledge of their actions for the next 25 years is simply reprehensible. This is not how mature, responsible adults act.” Paul and Ruben Flores are scheduled to be in court for hearings May 17 and June 21, and a preliminary hearing which will include witness testimonies and evidence submitted in the case, is tentatively scheduled for July 6.

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Neighbors, commission members air concerns about proposed housing project Development at La Lata Court subject of April 15 preliminary review By Serena Guentz Contributing Writer

he proposed La Lata Court housing project was met with oppositions and concerns from both neighbors and the Buellton Planning Commission as it underwent a preliminary review at the April 15 Planning Commission meeting. The proposed housing development would have 11 two-story single-family residential homes, each with an attached dwelling unit, on a private cul-de-sac street located at 264 La Lata Drive. The 1.68-acre lot is the current site of an unoccupied church. The primary homes would have four bedrooms and three bathrooms, while the ADUs over the attached two-car garages would have one bedroom and one bathroom. The project plans to use a “modern take on cottage style” for the exterior, employing elements of the Agrarian architectural style. The concerns come from the large density of the project, with lot sizes ranging from 4,100 to 6,300 square feet, and potential problems with parking and increased traffic. Surrounding lots in the area range from 8,000 to 28,000 square feet and RS-8 zoning requires minimum lot sizes of 8,000 square feet, which would allow for nine units. However, the project is requesting two additional units under the state density bonus law, for which its eligibility and applicability is still being determined. Additionally, three of the lots have driveway lengths of 12 to 15 feet, whereas Community Design Guidelines require driveway lengths of 20 feet.

Photo contributed This is a screenshot of the La Lata Court proposed site plan from the April 15 Buellton Planning Commission meeting

The shorter driveways may lead to vehicles impeding on the sidewalk and multiple commissioners noted that many families have more than two vehicles. This could then lead to vehicles parking on the street and onto adjacent streets in the neighborhood. Increasing traffic near Jonata Middle School, which is located to the south of the project site, was also one of the main concerns from neighbors and commissioners. “My only conclusion is that we have to reduce the number of lots,” Vice Chair Bob Blokdyk said. “It’s going to be overdeveloped the way it is.” Erik Vasquez, applicant for the project, said that he and his architects had previously looked into a 14-unit planned residential development, similar to condominiums or duplexes, but decided against the idea as it wouldn’t fit in to the existing neighborhood. “I’m very disappointed with this application,”

said Chair Patty Hammel. “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Just because you can put 14 units on there, we’re requesting a lot less.” At the time of the meeting, the Planning Commission received seven letters from neighbors and community members for public comment regarding the La Lata Court project. “The citizens in the area submitted letters and comments prior to the October 15, 2020, Planning Commission meeting,” said neighbor Mabel Shatavsky in a public comment letter. “We expressed concerns about the safety and the density of the project and about how this project does not match the existing neighborhood. Please make safety and quality of life a priority. Don’t just focus on profits and property taxes.” These concerns and oppositions were echoed in each of the public comment letters. “[The La Lata Court project] is wrong for Buellton and should be substantially reduced in

scope or rejected,” said Larry Bishop, another neighbor. Hammel repeated these concerns and said she felt that the Planning Commission’s concerns from the October 15, 2020, meeting were ignored. Most of the concerns from the Planning Commission and neighbors in that meeting, which involved a conceptual review of the project, remained into this meeting. The only concern addressed from the October meeting was the exclusion of sidewalks. Fivefoot-wide sidewalks have since been added into the project’s plans. “There is a housing crisis in Santa Barbara County that is an issue that’s been here for quite a while,” Vasquez said. “Buellton has a problem where it can’t grow out … There’s only one place for Buellton to meet its housing needs and that’s within.” Vasquez also said he believes his project “meets housing needs, both for families and affordable housing through the ADUs, while keeping the character of the neighborhood.” Commissioner Art Mercado urged Vasquez to compromise with the Planning Commission and community members. “Things will get developed, they just have to be done in the right way and the right manner,” Mercado said. An incomplete letter has been sent to the applicant as some items that are required have not yet been provided, such as a traffic study and a project pro forma, among others. After the incomplete items have been addressed, the project can move forward with an environmental review and checked for consistency with city standards. At that point, the project will return to the Planning Commission for a public hearing.

County Fire to declare high fire season May 3 Agency says county had just 47% of normal rainfall in the 2020-21 season Staff Report

he Santa Barbara County Fire Department (SBCFD), in conjunction with all other local fire jurisdictions, will declare the beginning of the 2021 high fire season for all areas of Santa Barbara County on May 3.

During high fire season, all burn permits issued for residential burning and hazard reduction will be suspended. In addition, the SBCFD will be increasing the number of resources (e.g., engines, dozers, crews, helicopters, etc.) responding to reported vegetation fires. The SBCFD is urging everyone who lives, works, and visits Santa Barbara County to be extra vigilant about fire safety this season. County Fire said the 2020-21 rainy season

yielded 47% of the county’s normal rainfall, which has resulted in significantly drier fuels. Combined with dry seasonal grasses for this time of year, this poses a significant risk for ignition and growth of a vegetation fire. The State of California has made available $165 million in grants in 2021 to develop and carry out fire prevention projects throughout the state. The Santa Barbara County Fire Department is actively applying for this funding to continue to build upon our already robust

prevention programs within the county. The Santa Barbara County Fire Department reminds the public to maintain vegetation clearance around structures, review and be familiar with the “Ready! Set! Go!” wildfire action plan, and be extra cautious and aware when traveling or staying in the wildland areas of the county. For more information about Ready! Set! Go! please visit www.sbcfire.com.

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Water Authority fears county at disadvantage by failing to approve amendments Supervisors have not OK'd amendment that allows purchase and sale of water outside county. By Jade Martinez-Pogue Noozhawk Staff Writer

eaders of the Central Coast Water Authority fear that Santa Barbara County is at a disadvantage in obtaining state water because of the county’s failure to adopt an amendment to the State Water Project that allows local water districts to buy and sell water supplies outside the county. The CCWA is an umbrella organization for all the State Water Project members in Santa Barbara County. The CCWA has requested that the Board of Supervisors approve Amendment 21, which allows State Water Project purveyors to buy and sell water outside of the county, three times with no luck, a CCWA spokesperson giving background on the issue told Noozhawk. The State Water Project provides 47% of the county’s annual water supply and nearly 85% of county residents pay for the delivery of state water to supplement local county supplies when needed, Eric Friedman, board chairman of the CCWA, wrote in a letter to the Board of Supervisors in January. Under the current conditions, water districts can purchase supplemental water through exchanges, with limited prices and the requirement that the buyers return a portion of the water to the sellers. Many local districts faced this “water debt” for supplemental water purchased

during the drought. Amendment 21 allows all 29 state water contractors to buy and sell water outright without having to return the water later, according to Ray Stokes, deputy director of CCWA. Many state water contractors believe that being able to move state water around is good water management, Stokes said. Twenty-six of the state water contractors have already approved and adopted Amendment 21, causing the amendment to take effect. “All those other contractors are now playing by a different set of rules because Santa Barbara County has not executed the amendment,” Stokes said. “We are now at a disadvantage compared to the other contractors that have executed this amendment. “I am unable to go out and buy excess water from other contractors. I can’t meet the needs of these CCWA members right now.” Purchasing water from outside the county is essential, especially during a drought year like the county is facing. The county’s water supply is down to the same levels as it was during the 2014 drought, the CCWA spokesperson said, but now local water districts don’t have the resources to manage their systems. Additionally, the State Department of Water

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Resources decreased water allocations this year from 10% to 5%, an amount so low that it ties the 2014 amount of the lowest allocation on record, according to Stokes. The CCWA is requesting again that the county execute the amendment as quickly as possible so it can go out and buy water for the local water districts, Stokes said. Some county supervisors want the last right to say yes or no on any water sold outside of the county, the CCWA spokesperson said, but the members in the CCWA have their own elected board. “They’re elected officials, too, so there’s a philosophical thought saying that the board should not have control of it,” he said. “They shouldn’t cherry-pick which components of the amendment they want. Imagine not having all the same tools but you’re going into the same game.” The new amendment ensures that the water supply needs of all of CCWA’s participants are considered before any water is transferred outside of the county, Stokes wrote in a letter to the Board of Supervisors in February. Additionally, Santa Barbara and Montecito

have both invested in desalination plants that provide a very reliable water source, Stokes said. By creating their own water, these agencies would be able to sell more state water and achieve revenues to offset some of the costs of desalination, along with developing an additional water supply, he explained. Without the adoption of Amendment 21, the agency providing water to the county is limited on its compensation, but with Amendment 21 there is no such limit, Stokes said. “The train has left the station; all the other contractors are buying and selling water,” he said. “No one wants to work with us because they are limited on the compensation they can receive and it’s too constraining.” Stokes said the county is “really shut out” from the market, and at such a critical point in the year. “Everybody is operating at a fair marketplace right now except Santa Barbara County; they don’t want to do business with us,” the CCWA spokesperson said. The Board of Supervisors is set to discuss Amendment 21 for the fourth time at Tuesday’s meeting, and the state deadline to adopt the amendment is April 29, the he said. “The denial of Amendment 21 will not only deprive CCWA and its participants of all these benefits,” Stokes said, “but failure to participate in Amendment 21 could also have immediate and adverse impacts on CCWA’s participants.” Noozhawk staff writer Jade Martinez-Pogue can be reached at jmartinez-pogue@noozhawk.com.

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Chambers of Commerce urge Hispanic businesses to apply for PPP Staff Report

he Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce and Santa Maria Chamber of Commerce recognize the importance that Hispanic- and minority-owned businesses have in the community. In sharing COVID-19 information and resources with community business owners, they have identified a gap. A number of Hispanic-owned businesses have taken steps to apply for financial assistance through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), but several smaller, local businesses have not yet done so. While there is still time to apply, funding

is quickly being distributed and may run out before the May 21 deadline. In 2012, the U.S. Census Bureau surveyed Santa Barbara County business owners and self-employed people, and

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May 4 - May 17, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 9

‘Hang out, talk, kick back’: Solvang Skate Shop wheels in the fun

By Serena Guentz Contributing Writer

new skate shop in Solvang hopes to build and strengthen the local skate community by creating a space for skaters to buy supplies and apparel, as well as a new place to hang out. Brett Martinez, owner of the recently-opened Solvang Skate Shop, decided to open the shop after talking with his cousin about how there were not many places for kids to get skateboarding supplies in town, leading to parents having to drive to Lompoc or Santa Barbara for the nearest skate shops. Electric Premier E-Bikes & More does sell some skateboards, but besides that there are no other full skate shops in Solvang. “It’s definitely a community thing, not just retail,” Martinez said about Solvang Skate Shop. “A place to hang out, talk, kick back.” Solvang Skate Shop is currently located at 446 Alisal Rd., Suite 6, however Martinez plans to open a larger, 850-square-foot shop upstairs within the next month after remodeling. Martinez has been skating for about 30 years and remembers spending a lot of time at skate shops in Goleta. He looks forward to giving back and helping the younger generation of skaters while bringing the community back to “the golden days.” “There’s a negative take on the skate community,” Martinez said. “But around here, all the kids are super respectful … I just want to give the kids a spot to hang out other than just roaming around the neighborhoods.” According to Martinez, the average age range of kids coming into the shop is 10 to 16 years old. “A bunch of kids have come in and they’re just out-of-their-minds excited that there’s a skate shop in town,” Martinez said. “I had a group of kids from Los Olivos the first day I was open, (they) rode their bikes

Photos by Serena Guentz Brett Martinez, left, owner of Solvang Skate Shop, and 14-year-old Austin Boucher put together a new skateboard at the business.

The new Solvang Skate Shop intends to be a full-service skate shop, offering skateboards, apparel and more, as well as a place for local skaters to commiserate.

all the way over here just to come check us out.”

He also said that another day, a group of eight kids were even waiting outside for him

to open when he showed up. “There’s nowhere really to buy skate stuff,” said 14-year-old Austin Boucher, who has been helping around the shop. “I feel like this will be perfect and I know a lot of other kids up here feel the same way.” Solvang Skate Shop aims to be a full-service skate shop, carrying skateboards, apparel, shoes, hardware, stickers and more. The shop carries items from both bigger, wellknown companies and local companies such as Shorty’s, If Skate Co. and Imperfects. Martinez has been creating a skate team with local kids to participate in skate contests, such as the Central Coast Monster Skateboarding Competition Series in San Luis Obispo County. He said he will sponsor them now, but hopes to help them get sponsorships with bigger companies as well. As COVID-19 restrictions loosen and allow for it, Martinez will be holding events through Solvang Skate Shop, such as barbecues at the skate park or demos from professional skateboarders to expose more people to skating. Martinez said that the skateboarding community has grown and become more accessible over time with the availability of tutorial videos on YouTube. “Skateboarding has come a long way,” Martinez said. “It’s super inclusive now. It wasn’t always like that but now they want everybody involved.” Solvang Skate Shop is not only for seasoned skaters. New skaters or those interested in skating are welcome in the shop as well, with help available to find the right supplies to get started. “Part of the skate shop etiquette is you’re always welcome to come hang out,” Martinez said. “Everybody’s welcome here and it’s always cool to come check it out and ask questions.”

10 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H May 4 - May 17, 2021

In-person bariatric surgery support group returns to Lompoc Valley Medical Center Meetings held from 5 to 6 p.m. on first Wednesday of every month Staff Report

fter a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Lompoc Valley Medical Center’s bariatric surgery support group is once again meeting in person. The support group takes place from 5 to 6 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month. Each session includes a presentation by either Program Coordinator M. Cristina Ortega, RN;

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Christine McReynolds or Registered Dietitian Hayley Esdaile. The support group is for people who have had bariatric surgery or are considering the procedure. Masks and social distancing are required. Participants will be screened at the LVMC front entrance for COVID-19 symptoms. Virtual log-in remains available for those unable to attend in person. The topic on May 5 is “Nutrition Supple-

ments” by Esdaile. In June, the support group will hear about “Eating for Life” by Ortega. Topics for following months include “Overcoming Self-Sabotage,” “Predictors of Weight Regain after Surgery,” “Your New Relationship with Food” and more. The support group is free of charge and registration is not required. Family members or support team members are welcome to attend. For more information on upcoming topics, see

the “Events” tab under Patient Resources at lompocvmc.com. Lompoc Valley Medical Center’s Bariatric Surgery Program is led by Weight-loss Surgery Program Director Dr. Farida Bounoua, FACS, and assisted by Dr. Christopher Taglia. Required medical exams and evaluations are completed at Lompoc Health facilities. Surgeries offered at LVMC are the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. For more information or to receive log-in details, contact Cristina Ortega at 805-7373382. LVMC is located at 1515 E. Ocean Ave.

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May 4 - May 17, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 11

These links are important for researching your family tree online By Sheila Benedict Contributing Writer

s promised in my March 2021 column, this month will be devoted to some of the URLs that are important for genealogical and historical researchers to know. Most repositories are closed and some of them have limited staffing. Doing online research is becoming an every-hour, everyday occurrence and it is hard to say when that will end. Going to a library, a genealogical or historical society, walking a cemetery that is miles from home, and other usual endeavors, seems a distant memory at this point. Under old circumstances, the weather would be an indicator it is time to travel to where your research takes you. That is still not the case. Working online and spending a lot of time in front of the computer is still the way to do research. The following might give some ideas and spur you on to work on your family history. Note that this is just a brief list as there are hundreds more based on the city, county, state, or

other country where the research should focus. The list looks very California centric but many of these sites also include information about places other than just local. It is suggested that regardless where you are researching, you check some of them out on the off chance the locale of interest may be found. Good luck. Subscription sites: Documents may be included in subscription: Ancestry.com: https://www. ancestry.com; FamilySearch.org: https://www. familysearch.org; Findmypast.com: https://findmypast.com; Newspapers.com: https:// www. newspapers. com; Free sites: Document charges apply; some of these may be

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offered as part of a subscription: Findagrave.com: https://www.findagrave.com; Fold3: https://fold3.com; National Genealogical Society: https://www/ ngsgenealogy.org; National Archives and Records Administration: https://www.archives.gov ; Natl. Archives Regionals: SF: https://www.archives.gov/sanfrancisco OR/ Riverside; Bureau of Land Management, General Land Office: https:// glorecords. blm.gov; Department of Interior, Indian Affairs: https:// www.bia.gov; Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley: https://lib.berkeley.edu; California State Library: https://www.library.

ca.gov; CA State Archive: https://www.sos. ca.gov; California Historical Society: https://californiahistoricalsociety.org; Online Archive of California: https://www. oac.cdlib.org; U of CA Digital Lib: https:// cdlib.org; Santa Barbara County Genealogical Society: https://sbgen.org; Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum: https://www.santaynezmuseum.org; Elverhoj Museum – Solvang: http://www. elverhoj.org; City/County Record Offices: You need to check by county and some cities; Court records are usually located by county, state and dependent upon the type of record, by federal office. An example is naturalizations as often a local court where the event took place has the information you need rather than at the federal level. Remember to check the URL whenever you are going to a site as they can change often. Be safe and follow guidelines. Until next column … Sheila Benedict is a professional forensic and family genealogist.

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12 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H May 4 - May 17, 2021

Mother’s Day a ‘young’ holiday, but tradition

By John Copeland Contributing Writer

unday, May 9, is Mother’s Day here in the United States, Canada and Australia. Mother’s Day is also observed in several other countries around the world, but on different days of the year. In the United States, Mother’s Day is a pretty young holiday, a little over 100 years old. But the tradition of honoring mothers and motherhood is deeply rooted in antiquity. In ancient times, it was expressed in honoring a “mother” goddess. It is only in the past few centuries that the celebration of motherhood has shifted its focus to our human mothers. Cybele was venerated as the Mother of the

Gods throughout the entire Mediterranean region. Babylonia and Syria knew her as Astarte or Ishtar. The Egyptians honored Isis, as the mother goddess, commonly regarded as the mother of the pharaohs. Early Christians celebrated a Mother’s Day of sorts. On the fourth Sunday of Lent, they paid homage to the Virgin Mary and to the church in which they were baptized. Most of us are familiar with the term “Mother Church.” In 16th century England, the church decreed honoring all mothers on the fourth Sunday of Lent. Called Mothering Sunday, it was a day for visiting one’s mother. Mothering Day grew into an important holiday in England. The precursor to our American Mother’s Day, like many of our holidays, has roots in the Civil War. After the war, Julia Ward Howe, author of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” felt the United States should have a day in honor of mothers. Her idea of a day honoring mothers was actually framed as a day for mothers to come together and protest war and the futility of sons killing the sons of other mothers.

In 1873, women’s groups in 18 American cities gathered and observed Howe’s mothers holiday. Initially, Howe, personally funded many of these celebrations. They died out once Howe stopped footing the bill. The celebration of Mother’s Day as we know it today did not come about until the early 20th century thanks to Anna Jarvis. As a child, Anna Jarvis’ mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, was a woman’s club organizer, in West Virginia, who had high hopes to bring women together to lower infant mortality and improve sanitary conditions. Ann founded a West Virginia women’s group that, in order to reunite families and neighbors that had been divided between the Union and Confederate sides of the Civil War, held a Mother’s Friendship Day. When her mother died in 1905, Anna Jarvis began a campaign to create an official Mother’s Day. Anna petitioned the superintendent of the church where her mother had taught Sunday School for over 20 years and on May 10, 1908, the first official Mother’s Day celebration took place at Andrew’s Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. Anna Jarvis arranged for white carnations, her mother’s favorite flower, for parishioners

to pin to their clothes and two carnations were given to every mother in attendance. Today, white carnations are used to honor deceased mothers, while pink or red carnations pay tribute to mothers still living. The Andrew’s Methodist Church is still there, but renamed the International Mothers Shrine. Anna Jarvis endlessly petitioned the government, business leaders, women groups and churches to create a Mother’s Day. Her efforts paid off as in 1912, West Virginia became the first state to recognize Mother’s Day and other states quickly followed suit. Congressman J. Thomas Heflin of Alabama and Senator Morris Sheppard of Texas presented a joint resolution to Congress for Mother’s Day be observed nationwide. The resolution was passed by both houses. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed the bill designating the second Sunday in May as a legal holiday dedicated “to the best mother in the world, your mother.” But what about Anna M. Jarvis? Mother’s Day quickly became a commercial gold mine centering on the buying and giving of flowers, candies and greeting cards — a development that deeply disturbed Jarvis. Anna Jarvis died in 1948, blind and poor

May 4 - May 17, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 13

goes back centuries in a sanatorium; a lonely forgotten woman. Ironically, Jarvis never knew that the Florist’s Exchange had anonymously paid for her care. She spent half her life fighting for a special “day” for mothers, the other half fighting against it! There are around 85 million mothers in the United States. Americans will spend about $671 million on cards for Mother’s Day. We will spend another $1.9 billion on flowers for moms. When you throw in other gifts, brunches and dinners, it is estimated that it will total $20.7 billion this year. Anna Jarvis, maybe, had a point about the commercialization. This year, 2021, is different, just like 2020. We are still dealing with ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many of us have been vaccinated, but still worry about our moms, some of whom are in the high-risk age range. Some of us will be apart from our moms when we’d normally be together. Folks are looking for ways to make sure their mom, grandmothers and women in their lives who are deserving of the honor feel appreciated on the special day. So, how can we celebrate differently? If you really want to give Mom something meaningful, give her your time. If your mom is at home, give her a day

off from any family chores. Someone else can take the responsibility on Mothers’ Day for making or serving the food, clearing and cleaning the dishes, and doing the laundry. Most moms simply wish to connect with their children and spend time with family in any way possible — if not in person, then with a phone call or video chat. Gifts are great, but with everything so uncertain these days, a chunk of your time is the best and most comforting gift of all. I am pretty sure that Anna Jarvis and her mother would approve.

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14 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H May 4 - May 17, 2021

Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara names three new trustees Volunteer board aims to fulfill mission of ensuring cancer care for county residents Staff Report

he Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara has added three new trustees to its board: Richard J. Nagler, Carola Nicholson and Katina Zaninovich. The volunteer board of trustees focuses exclusively on fulfilling the mission of ensuring excellent cancer care close to home for all residents of Santa Barbara County. Nagler was born on the East Coast and graduated from college with a degree in political science and history. He joined Prudential Insurance in 1968 in the Executive Development Program, remaining at the company for 21 years and leading offices in New York City, San Francisco, Minneapolis and Los Angeles. Nagler studied finance at New York University, working toward an MBA. He left Prudential to serve as the regional vice president of Medco, later Merck Medco, a pharmacy benefit manager. He later joined Advance PCS, another pharmacy management company. Upon his retirement in 2008, Nagler and his family moved to the Santa Ynez Valley from Westlake Village. Nagler is past president of the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, Santa Ynez Valley

Trinity

Photos contributed From left, new Cancer Foundation board trustees: Richard J. Nagler, Carola Nicholson and Katina Zaninovich.

Foundation and Los Olivos Rotary. He sits on the board of the Wilding Museum and Santa Ynez Cottage Hospital Foundation. In early 2020, his wife Janice was a Ridley-Tree Cancer Center patient, and they have been impressed with and appreciate the quality of care and professionalism. Nicholson is a certified public accountant who moved to Santa Barbara in 1980 from her native Argentina. She is co-founder/senior partner of Nicholson & Schwartz, a female-owned tax practice with offices in Santa Barbara and Buellton, specializing in tax consulting and preparation for individuals, nonprofits and corporations, with an emphasis on small business financial management. Before starting her private practice in

2000, Nicholson worked in San Francisco for major accounting firm Ernst & Young. A graduate of UCSB, Nicholson is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the California Society of CPAs. She currently serves on the boards of the Santa Barbara Bowl Foundation and the California Board of Accountants. She is a past member of the Santa Barbara County Advisory Board on Alcohol and Drug Problems, Women’s Economic Ventures, Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic, Santa Barbara Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Santa Barbara Symphony League, Earl Warren Showgrounds and Santa Barbara High School’s MAD Academy. Zaninovich was born and raised in Califor-

nia’s Central Valley. She has been involved in the community through nonprofit boards and volunteer work and she believes it is important to give time and experience to help others. She is a registered nurse with a bachelor of science degree and public health nurse certification, now retired, with experience in home health and hospice. For five years in Los Angeles, she served residents of East L.A., mainly working in the projects. Upon moving to Santa Barbara in 1982, she worked for VNA Health, concluding her career as its executive director. In Santa Barbara, she has served on the board and volunteered at Cottage Health, Central Coast Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinic, Post-Partum Education for Parents, Santa Barbara Scholarship Foundation and Montecito Retirement Association (Casa Dorinda). Zaninovich is a former member of the Cancer Foundation Board of Trustees (19932000). “We look forward to the expertise, knowledge and diverse backgrounds these new trustees will bring to our board,” said Lori Willis, executive director. “Through the pandemic and beyond, the trustees’ leadership and vision will continue to benefit local cancer patients and families for years to come, even through the most challenging of times.” For more about the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara, visit www.cfsb.org.

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May 4 - May 17, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 15

‘Young at Heart’ exhibition at ZFolio Gallery open through May 23 Work of 17 local budding artists ages 3-11 on display in Solvang Staff Report

Folio Gallery and Art First Studio presents “Young at Heart” — an exhibition of artworks by young students of Art First Studio, professional artist and art teacher Halina Wyluda-Kazmierczak and local artist Christine DiPego. The exhibition is taking place through May 23 in partnership with ZFolio Gallery. The exhibition includes 17 local budding artists ages 3-11, along with Wyluda-Kazmierczak, and DiPego. The artwork presented reflects exploration of a wide range of media, from crayons and watercolors to acrylic and collage. The exhibition shows the work of 17 local budding artists, including Malena Sanchez (age 4), Carly Mendizza (6), Luca Merz Bass (7), Kaylie Wright (6), Klaire Wright (3 1/2), Samuel Sanchez (6), Sloan Ellis (5), Audrey Elcon (5), Eva Zivic (6), Layla Olmedo (6), Isla

Photo contributed ZFolio Gallery is located in Solvang and features local and international artists.

Long (4), Zeaden Sherieff (11), Sophia Menelli (11), Shelly Brophy (7), Lochlan Whalen (5), Henry Garvey (6), Patrick Garvey (4), along with the work of DiPego and Wyluda-Kazmierczak. The motivation and purpose for each child’s art differs from piece to piece. Presented pieces were created just for the joy of doing art related

to a study or theme, or art to explore the possibilities of different materials. Whatever the motivation and purpose children possess, it came from the heart and an instinctive love of creation. Although they created their pieces working in a group, each piece freely expresses their unique talents.

DiPego lives and creates her art in Santa Ynez Valley, working in experimental media and showing in local venues. She is a former jazz singer/recording artist and designer of women’s accessories. She sees art in all things and enjoys her continual search for beauty. Wyluda-Kazmierczak is a professional artist and art teacher with a Master’s degree in fine arts and art education. In 2018, she moved to beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, where she is paints and teaches art at Art First Studio. Her paintings are in private and corporate collections in the United States, Canada, Germany, Australia and Poland. She is presenting several of her acrylic paintings. ZFolio centers on design and all works presented are handcrafted works of art. More than 75 leading American and international jewelry designers and artists working in glass, textiles and photography are represented. ZFolio Gallery is located at 1685 Copenhagen Drive in Solvang. Please call 805-693-8480 for more information. Regular hours are 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.

Happy Nurses Week Saluting the inspirational, the compassionate, the fearless, and those who step forward every day to care. Thank you to the nurses in our community.

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16 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H May 4 - May 17, 2021

Changing your own motor oil is low-cost, easy, and can be done right at home.

RECYCLE YOUR USED OIL and FILTERS! remember, it’s illegal to dump motor oil in the trash or down the drain. Make sure to recycle oil and filters at a center near you.

Photo contributed Mounted Enforcement Unit team patrols at county parks, special events, and is used for crowd control.

Benevolent Posse donates riding helmets to Sheriff’s Mounted Unit Staff Report

santa ynez valley residents, visit one of these free collection centers in your neighborhood

Jim Vreeland Ford at 340 E. Highway 246, (805) 688-7760 O’Reilly Auto Parts at 270 E. Highway 246, (805) 688-8239 Rio Vista Chevrolet at 390 E. Highway 246, (805) 688-3231 Santa Ynez Valley Recycling & Transfer Station at 4004 Foxen Canyon Road, (805) 686-5080 Waste Management/HSS at 97 Commerce Dr., (805) 688-7456

Please call ahead, wear a mask, and practice social distancing when turning in your used motor oil and filters. In pa par tnership wi with:

he Sheriff’s Benevolent Posse, a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation which raises funds for the benefit of the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office, donated new riding helmets to members of the Sheriff’s Mounted Enforcement Unit. The Posse was formed by local citizens to find ways to help the Sheriff’s Office improve efficiency, performance and morale by helping to fill the gap between the counties expanding law enforcement needs and constrained county budgets. The Posse routinely funds ongoing D.A.R.E. education in elementary schools, supports the Sheriff’s K9 and Mounted Enforcement Unit programs, as well as a variety of specialized equipment and training needs of the Sheriff’s Office. The Mounted Enforcement Unit is a team comprised of Sheriff’s deputies who perform law enforcement activities from horseback. They routinely patrol at county parks, special events, directed enforcement activities and are often used for crowd control in largescale events or in times of civil unrest.

Equipment for the Mounted Enforcement Unit is received in large part through donations or other surplus supplies. The donation of new, purpose-made riding helmets manufactured by the Super Seer Corporation, will allow mounted officers to have a single helmet that can be used for routine patrol environments, as well as crowd control and civil unrest situations. “Prior to this donation, team members had two helmets, one for routine patrol use, and another for crowd control situations,” Mounted Unit Commander Erik Raney said. “The new Super Seer helmets are specially designed for Law Enforcement Equestrian Units, and serve both functions.” “We are truly grateful for the ongoing support that the Mounted Unit has received from the Posse. The entire Sheriff’s Office benefits from the Posse’s support, which in turn, allows us to improve the service we provide to our communities.”

For more information on the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Benevolent Posse, visit its website at www.sbsheriffsposse.org.

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May 4 - May 17, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 17

Wildling Museum to present award to acclaimed underwater photographer Richard Salas to be honored with Wilderness Spirit Award at June 6 virtual event and fundraiser Staff Report

he Wildling Museum invites the public to join in a virtual event honoring the recipient of the museum’s Wilderness Spirit Award, renowned underwater photographer Richard Salas on Sunday, June 6. The event will livestream from 4 to 5 p.m. Salas’ incredible work embodies the Wildling Museum’s mission of bringing art and nature together as a means of preserving our wild spaces. He has spent a lifetime under water, capturing extraordinary images of marine creatures — from sharks and seals to the smallest sea life. Salas is a passionate advocate for the oceans and their inhabitants, and has written and published books documenting his adventures. Attendees will enjoy an inspiring virtual event featuring live and prerecorded tributes to Salas, as well as a live presentation by Salas himself, along with incredible underwater video footage. “While I realize that as an individual, I have

Photos courtesy Richard Salas Richard Salas has worked professionally in digital media for over 25 years and is known for his distinct approach to bringing out the texture and depth of his underwater subjects.

never been more than a drop of water in the face of the vastness of the ocean, I have also seen that as a species, our collective weight is having a profound and harmful impact on our seas,” says Richard Salas. “With my lights and lots of patience, I create dimensionality in my photographs of these beings so that they may leap off the page to meet and greet the viewer. Through my images, I hope to convey the profound sense of oneness with the underwater world that I feel when I am diving. I am committed to using my

art to spark in others both a reverence and a sense of responsibility for all ocean life.” Salas is a California native and graduate from Brooks Institute of Photography, where he was mentored by Ernest “Ernie” Brooks II and first introduced to diving and underwater photography. He has worked professionally in digital media for over 25 years and his distinct approach to bringing out the texture and depth of his underwater subjects is informed by years of experience in lighting products and people. He has authored three books of photography, including “Sea of

The Wildling Museum's 2020-2021 Wilderness Spirit Awardee is acclaimed underwater photographer Richard Salas.

Light: Underwater Photography of California’s Channel Islands,” “Blue Visions: Underwater Photography from the Mexican Border to the Equator,” and “Luminous Sea: Underwater Photography from Washington to Alaska.” To purchase tickets or to sponsor this event, please visit www.wildlingmuseum.org/ news/2021-wilderness-spirit-award or call 805686-8315. Please note that advance registration is required.

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May 4 - May 17, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 19

Miso Chicken Soup is a quick and comfortable dish By Marais Vida

Contributing Writer

his recipe is just as comforting as a more traditional chicken soup, but comes together in about 30 minutes! Miso delivers deep, rich flavor without the need to boil away for hours and boneless skinless chicken breast cooks up very quickly. Miso is a paste made from soybeans and/or grains fermented with salt and koji (a beneficial bacterial culture). White miso is very mild, but savory and slightly sweet, red miso is more robust.

Ingredients

n cups chicken broth/stock n 3 tablespoons miso paste n 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) n 10 oz pak choy n 3 carrots n 8 oz mushroom n 4-5 spring onion n 1/2 c cilantro leaves n lime, for serving

Photo by Marais Vida Miso Chicken Soup delivers deep, rich flavor without the need to boil away for hours.

Method

In a medium/large saucepan on the stove, bring your 8 cups of stock to a slow boil. Add the car-

rots sliced into ¼-inch slices and the miso paste. Cook for 8-10 minutes while preparing the other vegetables and the chicken breast.

If you were able to find pak choy (miniature boy choy), slice them into quarters, lengthways after rinsing them very thoroughly, they grow in very sandy soil and dirt can get right in between their stems. If using regular bok choy, cut into ½-inch slices. Slice the mushrooms and scallions and cube the chicken breast into pieces about 1/2-1/3 inch in size. Once the carrots are tender, but not mushy, add the pak choy. Let the pot come back to a simmer and cook for a couple of minutes before adding the mushrooms and chicken. Cover the pot and turn off the heat and wait while the residual heat cooks the chicken through. Check for doneness on the meat after 5 minutes. If your tester piece is still a little pink inside, cover it and wait a further 3-5 minutes. Boiling chicken breast can dry it out really fast, but gentle poaching makes it tender and succulent. Season to taste with salt and white pepper or even more miso paste, serve with fresh lime wedges, spring onion and cilantro.

Agua Santa Mexican Lager Fiesta set for May 8 at Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. Brewery has put its latest packaged brew on local store shelves Staff Report

igueroa Mountain Brewing Co. in Buellton is planning a COVID-19-compliant event for Saturday, May 8, to celebrate both Cinco de Mayo week and the release of its latest packaged beer, Agua Santa Mexican Lager. While the beer has been released on draft, Figueroa Mountain Brewing has canned Agua Santa in newly designed 12 oz cans that are hitting the stores this week. The event will take place from 2 to 8 p.m. at the Buellton tap room location, 45 Industrial Way. It will have music, street tacos and ice cold cerveza. Plus, the event will feature custom cars and motorcycles created by Southern California designers. Heath Pinter, marketing coordinator for the Agua Santa brand release, has helped curate the event.

Photo contributed Agua Santa Mexican Lager's new 12-ounce can is now for sale at local stores. It is the latest product from Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co.

“Agua Santa’s identity has been shaped by California heritage and lifestyle,” Pinter said. “We worked with great artist and individuals to authentically bring Agua Santa to life. I’m excited for people to experience Agua Santa in person this May 8.”

The beer is one of Figueroa Mountain’s fastest growing brands on draft and now it will be available to the public for purchase in cans. Founder Jaime Dietenhofer described where the inspiration came from “We created Agua Santa because we always

heard our brewers craving a Mexican lager after working all day, something that was refreshing,” he said. “So instead of them buying one at the store, we decided to make a better version ourselves. It became their ‘Holy Water,’ their ‘Agua Santa.’” Kevin Ashford, head brewer and creative director at Figueroa Mountain Brewing, is proud of how the beer turned out. “This Mexican-Inspired lager is best defined by the word ‘crisp,” he said. “ Both dry and refreshing, Agua Santa is made from high quality pilsner malt, flaked maize, and noble hops. Perfect for barbecuing and enjoying after a hard day’s work.” Dietenhofer also noted that the design was collaborated with local artist/designer Kros Andrade, a Santa Ynez Valley Native. “This was a great project to work on and we are really happy with the way brand turned out and look forward to its debut to the public,” Andrade said.

20 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H May 4 - May 17, 2021

SYHS student earns third place in county Architectural Design Competition

Staff Report

he Santa Barbara County 30th Annual Architectural Design Competition of 2021 has once again successfully concluded. Jack Van Thyne, a junior from San Marcos High School in Santa Barbara, took first place; Susy Lopes, a freshman from Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta, took second; and Olivia Doman, a junior at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, came in third. Two Honorable Mention awards went to Dos Pueblos High School, for senior Rachel Lin and junior Ellie Gleason. Van Thyne’s name will be engraved on the competition’s perpetual trophy, joining the names of past winners dating back to 2003. The trophy will spend the coming year at San Marcos High School. The Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara (AFSB), the nonprofit organization that annually holds this competition, normally operates it as an in-person event; however, this year it became a take-home competition. Organizers

and competitors dations for a communal alike learned how to gathering space, wildlife operate an architecrehabilitation facilities, tural juried review play areas, gardens, service remotely. buildings and dormitory After months of space for overnight camps. planning, on March The competitors’ deadline was the end of the day 11, 26 students from on March 15, when they across Santa Barbara uploaded their designs for County gathered online for a Zoom call review by a panel of local and were briefed on architects who narrowed this year’s challenge. the field to 12 finalists. The high school Those finalists were invited students were chalto appear before another Photo Contributed lenged to design an panel of judges on March Olivia Doman, a junior at SYHS came in third during the Outdoor Learning 20, where each finalist 30th annual Architectural Design Competition. Center for a fictional had 15 minutes to present Central Coast city. They were provided with a and discuss their design via Zoom. The panel natural park site containing trees, open space, of judges consisted of two local architects and and a small creek, and then asked to use green architectural educators, and thanks to the Zoom construction techniques to design and develop format, the juried review included Dr. Zeynep a creative and unique outdoor facility that will Kezer, a Turkish architect teaching design and engage visitors and enhance their outdoor expearchitecture history at Newcastle University, riences. Their design was to include accommoand Dr. Tania Sengupta, an Indian architect

who leads the history and theory program at the Bartlett School of Architecture at the University College London. The competition was conceived back in the 1990s by architect David Goldstien, and he remains a driving force on the organizing team. It is organized by the AFSB and supported by sponsors and donors throughout Santa Barbara County. The competition requires high school students to create a hand-drawn solution to a design challenge. From its inception 30 years ago, the competition has always provided the student a rich experience that comes from holding a pencil, and imagining and illustrating an architectural structure or outdoor space. Over the years, many competitors have gone on to architecture schools in California and beyond, and many have returned to Santa Barbara County to pursue their careers as architects. Some of these alumni serve as organizers of this competition today. To make this competition possible, the AFSB partnered with the Santa Barbara Rotary Club, the Santa Ynez Valley Rotary Club and the Santa Barbara County Education Office Regional Occupation Program.

Cow to raise funds for SYV Charter School students Staff Report

anta Ynez Valley Charter School is hosting a virtual Cow Pie Bingo event this month, allowing parents and community members to support students in a socially distanced but fun way. Bessie the cow will be led onto a field of marked squares — and the one you bid on could win you $1,000 if Bessie delivers a cow pie inside it. The event will take place Friday, May 14, from 3 to 6 p.m. The event will be live streamed with an emcee so that participants can follow along on the day in question. Organizer Kelly O’Connor is a parent and SYVCS board member who came up with the idea after experiencing several similar events in her hometown. “We thought we might give it a go - why not?” she said. “All you need is a field and a cow, and we have plenty of those in the valley. Everyone is

Photo Contributed Bessie the Cow will be the featured attraction when Santa Ynez Valley Charter School holds a virtual Cow Pie Bingo event in May.

excited to participate in a fun and safe event while donating to a worthy cause.” Even if you don’t end up guessing Bessie’s chosen square, you can still be a winner. Every

ticket purchase is entered into a raffle for additional prizes, including a case of wine, gift certificates and merchandise from local businesses. As for the cow, she will have 15 minutes of fame and an extra

helping of hay. “We are excited about this year’s fundraiser and have had some generous donations already from sponsors and families,” said SYVCS Executive Director John Dewey. “Our annual Gala is what usually helps support our enrichment programs, so this was a way to try and fill the gap. Whatever happens we have to provide the best experience for our children. The idea of an actual cash cow is surprising and brilliant.” The event is open to the public as well as the school community. Bingo squares are on sale now and can be purchased through May 14 on the school’s MySchoolBucks website. All proceeds go to programs and materials that directly benefit students.

For more details visit the event page at www. syvcs.org/cowpie or email auction@syvcs.org

May 4 - May 17, 2021 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 21

Santa Ynez Valley High School District Try a new sport! Board picks firm for superintendent search By Janene Scully

Noozhawk North County Editor

Nebraska firm with links to the California School Boards Association will help find a new superintendent for the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District. During a meeting April 7, district trustees voted 4-1 to hire Omaha-based McPherson & Jacobson LLC to guide the search. Board president Jan Clevenger and members Tory Babcock, Jose Ibarra and Stephen Luke voted for the action, with trustee John Baeke in dissent. Current Superintendent Scott Cory submitted his resignation March 22 after eight years on the job. He did not disclose what or where his new position is. A committee of two board members recommended McPherson & Jacobson, which has a Sacramento office due its affiliation with the California School Boards Association — a connection Clevenger called “a feather in their cap.” The consultant will guide the board in searching for Cory’s replacement by advertising

the opening, meeting with various stakeholder groups, screening applicants, reviewing candidates for the board to interview and assisting with the transition. The search will cost approximately $13,000, according to the firm’s estimate. The firm also helped the Santa Barbara Unified School District conduct its search for a superintendent in 2019-2020 as well as a 2016-2017 superintendent search for the Ventura Unified School District. The firm’s packet included a letter of reference from three Santa Barbara school district trustees. “We are thrilled with the new superintendent that MacPherson & Jacobson found for us,” wrote SBUSD trustee Laura Capps, adding she enjoyed working with consultant Ben Johnson. “He is especially skilled at helping school boards work together and effectively find consensus — and that is so important in the final weeks of a high-stakes search. I am grateful for their partnership.” One feature included in the finalist’s proposal involved the pledge of a two-year guarantee with

an offer of a free search, except for expenses, if the chosen superintendent leaves the job “for whatever reason.” Some board members have recently pushed for consideration of a combination principal/ superintendent position and consolidation of the Santa Ynez Valley high school district with the six elementary districts. Others consultants considered were Education Support Services Group of Knoxville, Tennessee; Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates of Schaumburg, Illinois; and Leadership Associates of Santa Barbara. Leadership Associates, where Fred Van Leuven, a former 12-year Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District superintendent, also works, recently led superintendent searches for the Santa Maria Joint Union High and Orcutt Union school districts.

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Noozhawk North County editor Janene Scully can be reached at jscully@noozhawk.com.

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22 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H May 4 - May 17, 2021

Hancock College marks progress on Fine Arts Complex with beam signing ceremony Staff Report

llan Hancock College officials celebrated significant progress on the construction of the college’s Fine Arts Complex by signing the final steel beam of the building’s superstructure during a ceremony on April 15. Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D., and members of the college’s Board of Trustees and fine arts department joined representatives from project contractor AMG and Associates; crane operator Bragg Crane and Rigging; project architect DLR Group; Golden State Steel; and the Roebbelen construction management firm in signing their names on the 66-foot, 2,178-pound beam. The ceremony took place at the Fine Arts Complex construction site at Hancock’s Santa Maria campus. “This is an exciting day as we mark a very important milestone for this project,” said Walthers. “We are very thankful to all of our partners and project stakeholders who have

Photo Contributed Hancock College Board of Trustee members Dr. Suzanne Levy, left, and Larry Lahr sign the final beam of the college's Fine Arts Complex.

been working very hard to make this facility a reality.” Once completed, the two-story, 88,000-square-foot facility will include a 400seat concert and recital venue and house the college’s dance, drama, film, graphics, music, photography, multimedia arts and communications programs. The college officially broke ground on facility construction in September 2020. “To be at this stage just five months into the project is a real achievement,” said AMG Project Manager Craig Shallanberger. Funding for the Fine Arts Complex was provided by the voter-approved Bond Measure I, the California Community College Chancellor’s Office, and generous support from the estate of former Hancock faculty member Patricia Boyd. Construction is expected to be completed by the fall of 2022. To learn more about Hancock’s Fine Arts Complex, visit bit.ly/AHCFineArts..

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Photo by Daniel Dreifuss Santa Ynez High quarterback Bennett Redell, seen here in an earlier game against Santa Barbara High, set the school career passing touchdown record in a 67-0 rout of Cabrillo in the final spring football game of the season April 16.

Declan Pollenz. Ast also ran wild in wins over Santa Barbara and Dos Pueblos. He rushed for a school-record 327 yards and four touchdowns against DP in a 41-3 win and had 163 yards and four scores in the Santa Barbara game, which the Pirates won 46-28. In three games, Ast has rushed for 534 yards on 70 carries and caught 12 passes for 192 yards. “The game that I broke the record I felt like I was running forever and had in the back of my mind after that play I might be close to breaking the record,” Ast said. “It was so exciting to be able to finish my senior year this way, getting to play at all was amazing.” Ast has been playing football since he was 7 years old, and has deep family connections in the game as he recalled fond memories of playing catch with his dad and brothers. “My family spends every Sunday watching football and some of my best memories have been in this sport with my family and my teammates I have grown up doing this with,” Ast said. Ast will continue to play running back when he moves on to Cal Poly next year and is hoping to one day be a coach himself, but his career focus will be in forestry and fire sciences. “I have to give a shout out to the equipment coach John Warning who let me use his equipment and helped me through this past year,” Ast said. In the win over Cabrillo, Cam Prendercast also caught a touchdown and returned an interception 50 yards for a score. The McClurg brothers also contributed with touchdown runs: Canyon McClurg had a 38-yard run on a reverse, and Cash McClurg finished the game with 54 yards on five carries. The JV football team had an incredible season

as well, going 3-0 and winning each game by at least 19 points. “During the uncharted past year of uncertainty our players and parents needed direction and authentic leadership, and without the endless efforts and positive mindset of Coach Josh McClurg, his talented coaching staff, our fearless and faithful athletic director, Ashley Coelho and all the people behind scenes, the opportunity to even have a football season would not of happened,” said Gina Ast. “With deep appreciation and respect to ALL these remarkable role models that never gave up and found creative ways to keep our kids focused on what they could control, and kept them physically and mentally prepared for the delayed season... thank you!!! Your time and dedication paid dividends this year and will continue to serve our kids in their future endeavors.” The Pirates kept conditioning and staying ready to play since last summer, as Coelho submitted a 30-page business proposal last summer to the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department to get the athletes back to campus for workouts. “It took just under a year to get sports back. Santa Ynez coaches, athletes, and parents were willing to do whatever it took to make sports happen,” Coelho said. “We were given an opportunity to have cross country lead the way in high school sports and from there water polo, outdoor grass volleyball, cheer, and football followed for the fall sports. Bottom line, Santa Ynez athletics is willing to do whatever it takes to get our student-athletes some normalcy back in their lives. I’m incredibly proud of every coach, athlete, and parent for complying with CDPH and SBCPHD, and for staying patient and never giving up.”

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