Santa Ynez Valley Star August B 2019 by Santa Ynez Valley Star

August 20 - September 2, 2019

Every Issue Complimentary Every Time

Ashley Coelho takes the helm of SYHS athletics New athletic director will keep coaching but stop teaching math

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By Brian Stanley Contributing Writer

he Santa Ynez Pirates are entering a new year with a new captain at the helm of the athletic department. After rising through the coaching ranks at the high school, Ashley Coelho has been named the Pirates’ new athletic director. “I was really excited. My brain was racing with ‘What’s the first thing I should do?’” Coelho said about her first reaction when she heard the news that she got the job. Taking the reins from former athletic director Cris Avery, who accepted the Area Administrator position at Nipomo High School, Coelho feels well prepared with the guidance she has received from Avery. “Avery left me a nice little checklist,” Coelho said. “He did a really good job of leaving a tasks list and what order to do them, and expectations.” The first item on Coelho’s checklist was to make sure all the fall sports schedules were accurate and finalized. The new athletic director immediately got to work contacting other area high school athletic directors. “We have the six fall sports. We want to make sure all of them are dead set, no changes, no surprises,” Coelho said. Selected from a field of three finalists for the position, Coelho began working at Santa Ynez High School in 2010 as a math teacher. While on campus she has held a variety of coaching positions. “There is no one more capable and vested in the kids. She was the perfect choice and she’s so plugged into both the academic and athletic side of coaching, having been a teacher and coached multiple sports,” said Superintendent

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Photo by Brian Stanley Ashley Coelho has been named the Pirates’ new athletic director, but she will also continue to coach several sports.

Scott Cory. “I’ve coached girls’ golf, girls’ basketball, track and field and cross country,” Coelho said. Even as she takes on her new role, Coelho will continue coaching throughout the school year. “I’m planning to still coach sports, so I’m an assistant JV football wide-receivers coach,” Coelho said. “I’m helping the

girls golf program transition to their new head coach, who was my assistant over the last six years.” After the football season wraps up, Coelho will be the girls’ varsity basketball assistant coach before finishing out the year as the track and field head coach. “It will probably be a whirlwind of a year, but I’m looking forward to it. I

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think it’s going to be really exciting to be a part of sports as a whole and be a part of more sports programs than just the ones I coach,” Coelho said. Along with the athletic director duties and coaching commitments, Coelho will have other responsibilities in her new role. “There is a lot involved with this job because it’s not just athletic director, it’s also testing coordinator,” Coelho said. “It’s basically filling the two roles, but I’m really excited.” As the testing coordinator for the high school, Coelho will be administering the Advanced Placement exam, CAASPP Smarter Balance exam for mathematics and English, California Science exam, English Language Proficiency Assessments for California exam, and physical fitness testing. “Since I’ve taken this job I’ve had to step down from teaching math, which is a huge passion of mine,” Coelho said. “I just really enjoy teaching students and sharing my passions. It’s really important to make those connections with the youth.” Since Coelho no longer has a classroom to teach in, she said, one of her first requests to the school district was to have a classroom of her own to be available for student athletes. “I want a place for athletes to go for tutorials. They can ask me for help,” Coelho said. “I have a new classroom set up and ready to go. I plan to have it open, and I’ll have a schedule before school, after school and at lunch.” A 2007 graduate of UCSB, Coelho has outlined a set of goals she wants to achieve in her new role. Topping the list SYHS ATHLETICS CONTINUED TO PAGE 27

2 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

Shepherd of the Valley It’s the law: Pull to right for lights and sirens welcomes new pastor Staff Report

he Rev. Jess Knauft was installed as pastor of Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Santa Ynez on Saturday, Aug. 17. Knauft has served Lutheran churches in Or- Rev. Jess Knauft egon and California for 33 years, including a congregation in Redondo Beach for 18 years. Most recently, he has been an interim pastor at Sherman Oaks Lutheran Church with a focus on multicultural outreach and ministry to those involved in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. Moving to the Santa Ynez Valley is a way for Knauft to connect with his interests in grape-growing and wine-making. In Los Angeles, he was affectionately known as the wine friar. He believes that rediscovering the spirituality of wine and grape-growing will bring about a renaissance in the production of great wines. What began as a hobby in the garage of his home in Ramona in the early 1990s grew into a professional winery business in 2013. His

entrepreneurial startup, Kinship Winery, is an e-commerce business that produces wine in Paso Robles from grapes grown in the Santa Rita Hills and other vineyards along the Central Coast. Knauft has been married to his wife Debbi for 35 years. She is a partner leader with Children’s Hope Chest, which equips vulnerable children and their communities around the globe to escape the cycle of poverty. She has been active in the implementation of the Blue Zones Project, an initiative of the Beach Cities in the South Bay of Los Angeles, which has resulted in increased health and wellbeing for the community. As a professional life coach, she nurtures clients through spiritual formation, leadership development and life purpose. In addition to his new role at Shepherd of the Valley, Knauft said, he looks forward to being a spiritual advisor and “encourager” to the Santa Ynez Valley. He is eager to help people in the community to flourish with Biblical optimism, perseverance and humor. He believes that a change in one’s thinking can change one’s life. Shepherd of the Valley, at 3550 Baseline Ave., holds Sunday worship services at 10 a.m. with adult Bible study at 8:45 a.m. Sunday School for children will be held at 8:45 a.m. beginning on Sept. 8.

Sheriff’s detective honored

Photo contributed Executive Director Ann McCarty of the North County Rape Crisis & Child Protection Center presents Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Detective Jason Vasquez with a plaque commemorating his work on behalf of sexual assault survivors. Other North County law enforcement and medical professionals were also recognized for exemplary work in investigating sexual assaults; Vasquez was specifically recognized for his focus on the well-being of sexual assault survivors.

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Staff Report

hen people need emergency help, they want the assistance to arrive immediately — but one thing that can delay the arrival of an ambulance, fire engine or police car is other drivers’ failure to pull to the right and stop when they hear a siren or see flashing lights. Every year in the United States there are 16,000 collisions involving fire department emergency vehicles responding to or returning from incidents, according to Daniel Bertucelli, a spokesman for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department. These collisions result in more than 1,000 firefighter injuries and 50 deaths. Many, if not most, of these accidents would be avoided if everyone would just move right for sirens and lights, he said. Why, then, doesn’t everyone just pull to the right? Many people panic. Some don’t know or understand the law. Others simply don’t adhere to the rules of the road, he said. The law is very specific: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to an emergency vehicle. Firefighters work hard to avoid vehicle collisions by driving slowly when traveling against traffic, coming to a complete stop at intersections, etc. However, the cooperation of all vehicles on the roadway is essential, Bertucelli said. Bertucelli offered these rules for drivers who encounter an emergency vehicle whose lights are flashing, whether the siren is sounding or not. Pull to the right and come to a complete stop. If you’re traveling on a high-speed road or if there is no room to stop, slow down as much as possible. If you are in the left lane, pull over into the right lane. If you cannot move to the right because of another vehicle or obstacle, just stop. Your action will let the driver of the emergency

vehicle know what you are doing and allow the driver to anticipate where to drive. When an emergency vehicle approaches you from behind while you are stopped at an intersection, stay where you are unless you can pull to the right. On a two- or four-lane highway or street without barriers, both sides of traffic should pull to the right. If the emergency vehicle is traveling in the opposite direction on a divided highway or street, you do not need to pull over. If you are on a divided highway where traffic in front of you is at a standstill and you see emergency lights behind you, move to the right if you can; stay where you are if you can’t. Never move into the center divider — you could be moving into the path of an approaching emergency vehicle. Stay at least 500 feet behind any emergency vehicle. Do not move to the left, ever, and do not play music so loudly that you are unable to hear sirens. Do not race ahead to make the green light or turn before the emergency vehicle gets there, and do not turn quickly to the left onto a street or driveway. Do not drive through a red light or stop sign when an emergency vehicle approaches from behind. And above all, do not disregard the emergency vehicle by continuing to drive. Following these simple rules will help everyone involved in an emergency: those who desperately need help and those who are hurrying to help them, Bertucelli said.

Celebrating the Life of

Ralph C Marks

Ralph C. Marks, age 96, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, July 25, 2019. Born May 10, 1923 in Schenectady, New York, to parents Egbert and Beatrice Marks. Ralph served in the Army as a Radio Operator and was stationed in England during World War II, where he met and married his wife Philippa Ladsen-Wright of 70 years. They returned home to Albany, New York where he was employed by GE with the Missile and Space program. Ralph and his family relocated to Santa Barbara in 1959, where he continued to work with GE at Vandenberg Air Force Base until he retired in 1988. During his retirement he and Philippa traveled in their motor home, and spent time in Baja, Mexico where they had a house built on the beach in 1965. They especially loved spending time with their family and grandchildren and moved to the SYV in 1990. Ralph was preceded in death by his wife, and daughter Elita Coltman (Don). Left to honor him are his children Zena Waiton ( Ronald) of Paso Robles, Barry Marks (Liz) of Santa Ynez, Trina Miller (Robert) of Solvang, 15 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. Ralph’s wit and sense of humor will always be remembered. Special thanks to the Cottage Hospital and Visiting Nurse’s, for their love and support, and to the Doctor’s who cared for dad. Internment will be scheduled at a later date.

August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 3

SM hospital sets sights on mental health treatment Local doctor describes ‘perfect storm’ of problems creating the need By Janene Scully

Noozhawk North County Editor

“perfect storm” has created an urgent need for expanded mental health treatment and spurred a push by Marian Regional Medical Center to create options within the city of Santa Maria. Dr. David Ketelaar, immediate past president of Marian’s medical staff and a 22-year Emergency Department physician, delivered a presentation to the Santa Maria City Council recently about the efforts to develop mental health treatment programs. That includes a crisis stabilization unit and in-patient treatment beds within the city, he said, confirming that one possible option is the old Valley Community Hospital building on East Plaza Drive, where Marian’s operator, Dignity Health, has nearby medical support facilities. The Plaza Drive site is about 2 miles from Marian’s hospital and primary campus. Santa Maria, now Santa Barbara County’s largest city, has limited programs and lacks in-patient treatment beds, requiring the transfer of people out of town. “It’s the perfect storm. This has been building for many years. The perfect storm — these factors are the decreasing supply of beds, the increasing population and the increasing prevalence. We recognize that

Photo by Janene Scully The old Valley Community Hospital building at 505 E. Plaza Drive in Santa Maria might become home to Marian Regional Medical Center’s new behavioral health programs unit.

we’re not keeping up,” Ketelaar said, adding that the impact is felt in the Emergency Department and across the medical community, prompting a move to tackle the issue proactively with Santa Barbara County representatives. “It’s a very difficult issue. ... We’re not alone in our county. Every county in California, every state in the country is grappling with this issue right now.” Statistics show that one in five adults have a psychiatric illness, he said, adding that the problem crosses all “socioeconomic barriers.”

Ketelaar noted that Santa Barbara County has eight in-patient mental health beds per 100,000 residents, compared with 13.7 for the similarly sized Tulare County. Meanwhile, Ventura County has 15.3 beds per 100,000 residents. “We need to fix this locally here, and that’s what the hospital has in its sights right now,” he added. Dignity Health’s plan calls for several steps, including creating a crisis stabilization unit, an in-between facility for someone who otherwise is medically stable but would

benefit from more immediate psychiatric care while awaiting longer-term treatment. “By having a crisis stabilization unit, we can start some of that work intensely right away when we’ve determined there’s a mental health emergency,” Ketelaar said, adding that people typically stay less than 24 hours. The crisis stabilization unit would offer four to eight chairs, not beds, while delivering “healing and helpful” care with access to psychiatric services, substance abuse help, social workers and more. By offering the service locally, medical personnel can implement a patient’s support network once someone is stable and can be released, he added. “Down the line, it’s a longer time scale, but to get in-patient beds in Santa Maria would be something that would really benefit our community, too,” Ketelaar said. “And that’s in our sights. We think that’s something that is very doable. It’s going to take a lot of collaboration … but it can happen. “Our goal is to treat our patients locally and to improve these services here.” For about five years, reports have circulated that Marian representatives were eyeing a mental health facility for the building that housed Valley Community Hospital, which was closed by Tenet Healthcare Corp. in 1999.

Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope With Special Guest Ken Napzok August 24th 6-9:00 pm Clark Center

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The Central Coast Film Society is honored to host, expert appreciator of Star Wars and AGHS alumni, Ken Napzok, to introduce Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope and participate in a post screening Q&A. VIP Ticket holders have reserved seating and attend a pre-screening Meet & Greet with Ken Napzok, including a signed copy of “Why We Love Star Wars: The Great Moments That Built A Galaxy Far, Far Away”. Purchase tickets at: https://clarkcenter.org/events

4 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

Before prescription drug misuse finds its way to our kids... BE A PART OF THE SOLUTION Safe Storage

Lock and monitor your unused prescription drugs away from children and teens.

Safe Disposal

For the nearest place to dispose of unused or expired medications go to:

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August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 5

Buellton intends to allow cannabis-testing labs Council directs staff to return with revisions to current ban By Tamara Rowles Contributing Writer

he Buellton City Council intends to amend its ban on all commercial cannabis activities to allow cannabis-testing laboratories to operate within the city, according to discussions on Aug. 8. At the same meeting, the council considered but decided against amending the municipal code to allow for the sale of cannabis-derived cannabidiol (CBD) products at retail stores in Buellton. CBD is the non-psychoactive component of marijuana. The council revisited Municipal Code 19.20, zoning provisions adopted in July 2018, which prohibit all commercial cannabis facilities and cultivation within the city. Currently there are only two exceptions to the prohibition. First, state-licensed retailers that are located outside the city may deliver products that comply with California state laws to Buellton residents. Second, Buellton residents may cultivate up to six cannabis plants as long as the cultivation complies with applicable health and safety codes and does not use gas products such as butane for cultivation. In considering whether to create another exception to the existing code to allow for the operation of laboratories to test marijuana plants and cannabidiol products to ensure these products’ compliance with California State laws, the council weighed their concerns for allowing new cannabis-related activities along with the possible benefit of job creation. “I was approached by a group that was interested in Buellton because we are so close to so many crops, Santa Rosa Road in particular,” said Mayor Holly Sierra. “The state licensing is very strict. You have to be a licensed chemist to work in

the facility, which I thought would bring some nice paying jobs into our community. What I understand is they are given direction by the state, they go to this grower, they’re looking for this plant, they clip two to three leaves off the plant, put it in a baggie, take it to a lab, test it for chemicals for sprays, for things that aren’t supposed to be on it. They print the results. “They return the baggie back to the grower. What they keep in these labs is minimal and under tight security. The state has a lot of stringent laws. I thought the council should talk about it. What can we allow and what don’t we want to allow?” Addressing a concern for public safety, City Manager Scott Wolfe noted, “If a person holds a license to operate a cannabis testing and analysis laboratory, they cannot hold any other type of retail or commercial cannabis license. That ensures the separation between the cannabis producers and the cannabis analysis.” The Council agreed to direct its staff to perform additional research and draft an ordinance to allow cannabis testing and analysis laboratories within city limits. Sierra noted the draft ordinance should have “very strict wording” and will be considered and voted on at a future meeting. The Council decided not to allow for sales of CBD products within Buellton City limits. The retail market for CBD products is expected to hit $22 billion in 2022. Wolfe explained there are two types of products that contain CBD, hemp-derived and cannabis-derived. There is also a difference under state regulations between food and non-food products that contain CBD. Hemp-derived CBD products that are not food, such as lotions and oils, can be sold in California retail stores without having to go through the cannabis licensing process. These products are currently sold in Buellton and are not prohibited by the current City Code. Hemp-derived food products are prohibited under state law because Proposition

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64, adopted by California voters in November 2016, specifically excluded hemp and hemp-derived products. However, California is poised to pass Assembly Bill 228, which would allow hemp-derived food products within the state, with some labeling and other restrictions. The second type of CBD products are cannabis-derived products. These products were legalized under Prop. 64 but can be sold only under a retail cannabis license. Buellton City Code prohibits the sale of all cannabis-derived products, food and non-food alike. Jamie Dietenhofer, president and co-founder of Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company, asked the council for direction as he is considering creating a new line of CBD seltzer water, which would be manufactured at his Buellton facility. “We have an opportunity to make a CBD seltzer from 100 percent hemp, so it’s hemp derived. We’re not looking to do retail sales of that here, just package and manufacture. So I’m trying to seek direction from Council and the City Attorney and City Manager if that’s something we do proceed with. “There are many costly steps that we have to go through from a food standpoint to make that available. So we want to see before we make that investment if that is something allowable from Buellton, to package a hemp derived seltzer,” Dietenhofer said. Wolfe noted that because the product line would be hemp-derived food product, Dietenhofer would first need to see what happens with AB 228, which will determine whether hemp-derived food products will be allowed within California. The Buellton Municipal Code is limited to cannabis-derived products and would not apply to Dietenhofer’s intended line of hemp-derived CBD seltzer products. With no further public comment, the council unanimously decided not to create another exception to allow sale of cannabis-derived CBD products within Buellton City limits at this time.

In other business, the council considered a draft document that provides the purpose, parameters, and membership of the proposed Buellton Arts & Culture Committee. Council Member John Sanchez as well as Buellton Rec Supervisor Kyle Abello are poised to be on the committee. Council Member David King expressed his concern that the members of the committee were not required to be Buellton residents but could hail from the greater Santa Ynez Valley. “To me, if we’re going to use taxpayer money, all of the people on the committee should be Buellton residents, King said. Sanchez countered that the City Council would still vote on the recommendations for the benefit of Buellton but he did not want to limit volunteer membership on the committee if there is somebody with talent in this area who can offer a contribution. Sierra noted that the dog park in Buellton has board members who are not Buellton residents and people from all over the valley use the dog park, just as people from the greater Santa Ynez Valley would benefit from the projects the committee proposes. The council then voted to give the Arts and Culture Committee $50,000 so that it could propose specific projects to the council. The council noted the committee should not feel obligated to propose spending the entire budget within the year. The proposed projects would still need to be approved by the council before these funds are spent. The council also recognized Boy Scout Troop 42 for its service to Buellton. Troop 42 put up 50 state flags along the Avenue of Flags for Flag Day on June 14 under the direction of Scoutmaster John DeLeon. Several of its members also completed their Eagle Scout projects, which benefited the Buellton community. For more information, call Buellton City Hall at 805-688-5177 or visit www.cityofbuellton.com.

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6 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

Solvang resumes talks with business, tourism agencies

Council rescinds controversial closed-door decision and starts again By Raiza Giorgi

publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com

olvang City Council has rescinded a controversial decision made in closed session on July 8 to cancel the city’s contracts with the Solvang Chamber of Commerce and the Solvang Conference and Visitor’s Bureau. At a regularly scheduled meeting on Aug. 12, the council voted 5 - 0 to rescind the decision and continue negotiations with the tourism and chamber agencies. “Rescinding the decision is a formality as the new contracts supersede any prior agreements,” according to Interim City Attorney Chip Wullbrandt. The Santa Ynez Valley Star and Noozhawk. com had questioned the July 8 decision as a violation of the Brown Act and therefore subject to legal challenge if the council did not bring it back for public reconsideration, saying the decision was inappropriate for a closed session. The Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s office was also investigating the action, according to an Aug. 2 email response to the Star’s questions. “We are actively investigating the allegations and therefore must refrain from responding to any questions, at this time, relating to this matter,” said Chief Investigator Patrick Clouse for the DA’s office. Wullbrandt said he had heard from Special City Auditor Thomas Widroe that “they’ve heard a bunch of public stir out there. It’s the same public stir I mentioned when you’re reducing funding to an entity that has a lot of public relations and advertising people and support in the community. Change is difficult, and this is change,” Wullbrandt said. He added that the District Attorney’s office has offered Brown Act training, and he welcomes that. Council member Chris Djernaes said he had contacted the District Attorney’s office and they

told him there was nothing on the council. During public comment regarding the Solvang Conference and Visitors Bureau (SCVB) and Solvang Chamber of Commerce contracts, Charles Werner, board president of the chamber, quoted Rodney King, “Why can’t we just all get along?” He also said the situation began when Djernaes made comments to another area chamber of commerce that Solvang Chamber Executive Director Tracy Beard felt were derogatory and demeaning toward her and the chamber. Werner said Djernaes was on the phone with the other chamber executive and said in that conversation that the Solvang chamber is corrupt and fraudulent and working for “Danish Mafia.” “I told (City Manager) David Gassaway that those comments were actionable defamation, and when I talked later with another city attorney he said in fact they weren’t because of ‘qualified privilege,’ so I was wrong. I do not believe it should have rose to the threat of litigation, we simply wanted this behavior to stop,” Werner said. He continued that the chamber hoped to further negotiations with Wullbrandt since their current contract is for only three months, and upcoming events should have already have contracts started. “This is the time that we usually already have contracts done with vendors for the fall events like Scarecrow Fest, Jazz in the Park and others,” Werner said. Werner said the chamber has always been forthcoming with how they spend the money they receive from the city. “You know down to the penny how we spend our money when we submit our quarterly finan-

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cials. The chamber board and other volunteers provide hours of free service, and the city gets a lot of bang for its buck,” Werner added. Former SCVB employee Brenda Ball gave a list of some of the SCVB’s successes, such as the agency’s employees increasing the number of visitors who return. Recent Candlelight Tours of town were extremely successful with 125 people going to just one of the tours, Ball added. “We get more than 1,400 inquiries a year just through the website. (CVB employee) Daniel Lahr uses his considerable talent for videography for reports, social media and advertising and as the film liaison and group sales. The SolvangUSA.com website has an average of 1,850 visitors every single day last year, more than twice any other tourism website in the valley,” Ball said. “Time doesn’t allow me to mention other successes but you can review annual reports. In my humble opinion, consider keep funding with an organization already proven it can do the job, rather someone who has not proven they can do it better,” Ball added. Solvang resident Elizabeth Breen said that she personally supports the council looking outside the box on effective marketing and clearly Solvang has financial issues that have to be addressed. “I would encourage ways to look at how to partner with other entities instead of replicating effort and get people with history here to learn how funding changed. There are quite a few of us to provide historical data to help the council,” Breen said. Resident Nancy Emerson supported the council by explaining that it is never a good time to propose inefficiencies.

“I agree there needed to be an evaluation, and in hindsight can see better ways for this process to occur,” she said, referring to the council’s previous requests for the special city auditor to review current marketing efforts. Former councilman Neil Zimmerman said this was the best council he’s ever seen and gave his full support for their decisions. “We are all grown-ups here, and the actions as a board have direct action on individuals on this town from residents to workers and cause a reaction. The reaction is not positive … pull back and let funding remain for one year and figure it out over that year,” resident and business owner Rich Condit said. Hank Homburg said voters elected the council to change the way things were in Solvang. “Today we find out we have a crumbling infrastructure, that is our priority. We need to take priority in that, not subsidizing funds for businesses. TOT goes into the general fund. Let it supplement infrastructure,” Homburg said. Kim Jensen, president of the SCVB, then expressed the desire to continue to negotiate as early as the following day, when the SCVB was holding its board of directors meeting. “It’s been heated and all over the place. I would like to find a way we can at least finish the year,” Jensen said. He said the CVB is requesting a four-month contract for $50,000 to manage Julefest, the Visitors Center and key services while the council works on a request for proposals to provide visitor and marketing services. Should the council decide to go with another entity to fulfill marketing services, the SCVB would return all money to the city, he said. Jensen also showed his support for passing along the Solvang Stomp event to Visit the Santa Ynez Valley. “I would like to move on and get done with this and find way,” Jensen said. The council voted 5- 0 to schedule a future item for the chamber to present their funding requests and defer action on the SCVB contract in light of Jensen’s public comment. The motion was also approved to continue negotiations with the CVB.

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August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 7

PG&E offers tips to reduce cost of air conditioning Staff Report

s hot weather lingers this fall, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is offering suggestions for five simple ways to lower air conditioner costs. “The harder the air conditioner works, the greater the energy cost. We want our customers to know there are simple and inexpensive ways to prevent their monthly energy bill from spiking during hot … months,” said Vincent Davis, senior director of customer energy solutions at PG&E. n Use ceiling fans, which keep air circulating and allow the thermostat to be raised several degrees while keeping the home just as comfortable. However, remember to turn them off when leaving. Fans move air, not cool it, so they waste energy if left on when no one is at home or work.

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n Shade and clear the area around the AC unit to keep the system cooler, while ensuring the air flow isn’t blocked. Also, keep the area around the AC system clear and free of overgrown vegetation or other items that could impact equipment efficiency. n Reducing the sunlight that streams in through windows, which can raise the indoor temperature. Planting shade trees outside windows can curb encroaching sunlight, and blackout shades or curtains can be a low-cost option. n Replace filters as needed, because dirty air filters make the air conditioner work harder to circulate the air. n Avoid cooking indoors during extreme heat, or at least use low-heat-emitting appliances such as microwaves and crock pots. Cooking with an oven or on a stovetop generates more heat, which strains AC systems.

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.

Mr. Allan Hancock can be proud

t is interesting, and hopeful, to note that Allan Hancock College does not support new oil development in Cat Canyon, or elsewhere in our county. For several years, the college president has spoken in favor of Big Oil. And he did this as if he were the official voice of the school. Now, after recently being rebuked by the Board of Trustees, he may only

express his personal opinion on this important matter that affects our health, safety, jobs and economy. Kudos to the trustees for acting responsibly. And thanks again to our Founding Fathers for enshrining freedom of speech in our Constitution’s First Amendment. Seth Steiner Los Alamos

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8 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

Santa Ynez Valley Star’s Nonprofit Guide

e created this list to help local residents decide how they might want to invest their time, energy or dollars in helping the many nonprofit organizations in the Santa Ynez Valley. We hope our readers will consider “Paying it Forward” through one or more of these worthy groups.

Allan Hancock Foundation

The foundation raises funds to advance education and build community support to meet the needs of Hancock College in the areas of scholarships, capital/infrastructure projects and program support. www.hancockcollege.edu/foundation

Angels Foster Care

Founded in 2006 by Meichelle Arntz, Angels Foster Care has placed more than 230 infants and toddlers in stable, loving “Angels” foster homes in Santa Barbara County. 805-884-0012 www.angelsfostercare.org

Arts Outreach

The mission of Arts Outreach — promoting the visual, literary and musical arts in the Santa Ynez and Los Alamos Valleys — has grown stronger than ever with the help and support of the community, teachers, principals, and superintendents. 805-688-9533 www.artsoutreach.com

Atterdag Village and Auxiliary

One of the valley’s premier retirement communities that includes independent, assisted living and skilled nursing. The Auxiliary was created to honor, protect and support the seniors at Atterdag with resources and events. 636 Atterdag Road, Solvang 805-688-3263 www.peoplewhocare.com

Direct Relief

Direct Relief is a Santa Barbara-based humanitarian aid organization, active in all 50 states and more than 80 countries, with a mission to improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergencies – without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay. www.directrelief.org

517 Atterdag Road, Solvang 805-705-3918 www.hiddenwings.org

EconAlliance

EconAlliance seeks to drive positive economic impact through strategic initiatives and programs that support target industry sectors and North County vitality. The organization is committed to collaboration in the leveraging of regional assets and talent to enhance chamber of commerce, city, and county economic development efforts. www.econalliance.org

Elverhøj Museum of History and Art

The museum’s mission is to collect, preserve and exhibit the history and Danish culture of Solvang and to promote the arts. Its unique building is the former home of one of Solvang’s most artistic families. 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang 805-686-1211; www.elverhoj.org

Friends of the Library of the Santa Ynez Valley

The Friends of the Library is dedicated to the growth and development of the public libraries in the Santa Ynez Valley, ensuring free access to information and resources to all members of the community. 1745 Mission Drive, Solvang friendssyvlibrary@gmail.com www.friendssyvlibrary.org

Old Yeller Ranch Rescue

Li’l Orphan Hammies

At Li’l Orphan Hammies, the primary mission is to provide rescue, a safe environment, enrichment, and excellent care for pot-bellied pigs that are homeless, abandoned, neglected, or abused. www.lilorphanhammies.org

Los Olivos Community Organization

The Los Olivos Community Organization seeks to foster fellowship and goodwill among the area’s diverse communities through cultural, educational and social activities, support sustainable agriculture, and preserve the character and historical significance of the historic Grange Hall for those activities. 2374 Alamo Pintado Road, Los Olivos www.locorg.org

Bethania Preschool & After School Care began in 1987 at Bethania Lutheran Church to meet working families’ needs. The preschool curriculum includes pre-reading, writing and math, as well as science, art and outdoor activities. 603 Atterdag Road, Solvang 805-688-4637 www.bethanialutheran.net Since 1976 the Santa Ynez Valley Senior Citizen Foundation has worked to improve the quality of life and total health and well-being of seniors through projects that advance health and nutrition, promote social interaction and aid seniors who are at risk. The nonprofit Buellton Senior Center “is blessed by the selfless hearts of our volunteers, and faithful donations.” 164 W. Highway 246, Buellton 805-688-4571 www.buelltonseniorcenter.org

Central Coast Film Society

The Central Coast Film Society celebrates cinema and promotion of media arts and entertainment. It provides a platform for Central Coast filmmakers and students, sponsors and hosts forums and screenings, and provides support for media arts. www.centralcoastfilmsociety.org

Old Yeller Ranch Rescue has rescued dogs from shelters throughout California, working from a small facility in Los Olivos, where they kennel the dogs as an intermediate home until a forever home is found. 805-500-6977 www.oyrr.org

PAWS Park

PAWS Park is the Santa Ynez Valley’s only off-leash dog park. The park is completely fenced with two separate areas. The nonprofit organization relies on donations from supporters and work from volunteers to keep the park safe and fun. syvpaws@gmail.com

Rona Barrett Foundation

Opening doors for seniors in need with affordable housing and care services in the Santa Ynez Valley. Founded by former Hollywood journalist Rona Barrett, it built The Golden Inn and Village as an affordable and dignified senior residence community. 805-688-8887 www.ronabarrettfoundation.org

Rotary Clubs

Bethania Preschool and Afterschool

Buellton Senior Center

world. NatureTrack also hosts an annual film festival featuring nature films. 805-886-2047 www.naturetrack.org

The Los Alamos Foundation

Golf Beats Cancer

In coordination with the American Cancer Society and area cancer centers, Golf Beats Cancer raises funds for cancer patients who are facing the harsh effects of chemotherapy. Its “Links to More Good Days” program puts local patients onto local golf courses. www.gbcpatientsupport.org

Happy Endings Animal Sanctuary

The sanctuary provides refuge to animals that would otherwise be euthanized and to care for those who are in neglectful or abusive situations. 805-448-7138 www.happyendingsanimalsanctuary.org

Hidden Wings

Hidden Wings nurtures the gifts of young adults with autism so that they might have full and productive lives in society.

The group’s mission is to preserve and promote the rich history and culture of the Los Alamos community and to serve those who live and work in Los Alamos and surrounding areas. 805-478-3934 www.thelosalamosfoundation.org

Milton’s Mutts

The mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home abandoned, abused and neglected domesticated animals, with a focus on the senior population. Founded by Breann Hollon, Milton’s Mutts rescues senior dogs from kill shelters and gives them a retirement of love, either with the organization or in a new home. www.miltonsmutts.com

Four local Rotary Clubs and their benevolent foundations provide a wide range of human services locally and internationally. Find information on local clubs at www.syvrotary.org, www. buelltonrotaryclub.org, www.solvangrotary.com, and www.losolivosrotary.org.

Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation

The Santa Barbara Vintners (Santa Barbara County Vintners Association) is a nonprofit 501(c)6 organization founded in 1983 to support and promote Santa Barbara County as a world-class, authentic wine-producing and wine grape-growing region. 597 Avenue of Flags, Buellton 805-688-0881 wwwsbcountywines.com

NatureTrack

The NatureTrack Foundation’s mission is to instill students with the leadership skills, attitudes, and habits for lifelong learning and inspire them to be respectful stewards of the natural

Santa Ynez Youth Track

Youth Track provides coaching in skills and lessons that can be used for a lifetime, including

August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 9 discipline, determination, respect and dedication to friendship, teamwork and a healthy diet, body and lifestyle. www.sytrack.org

Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden

The Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden Foundation is dedicated to fostering the discovery and deeper understanding of the natural world and an appreciation of the significance of nature in our lives. 151 Sycamore Drive, at River View Park 805-245-5603 www.santaynezvalleybotanicgarden.org

Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital

Founded in 1964, the not-for-profit Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital provides outpatient surgical services, inpatient care, comprehensive imaging (including MRI, CT, digital mammography, ultrasound, X-ray), cardiac rehabilitation program, physicians specialty clinic and 24-hour emergency services. 2050 Viborg Road, Solvang 805-688-6431 cottagehealth.org/syvch

Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Foundation

The foundation develops, manages and channels 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. 805-691-9509 cottagehealth.org/donate

Santa Ynez Valley Cycling Club

The club is dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles, friendships and goodwill, sportsmanship, good conduct and safety for youth, and a shared love of cycling. Activities include supporting a junior racing team, sponsoring the high school mountain bike team, donating helmets to local youth, awarding college scholarships, organizing cycling events, and conducting weekly rides and periodic clinics. www.syvcc.org

111 Commerce Drive, Buellton 805-688-8224 www.syvhumane.org

Santa Ynez Valley Master Chorale

The Master Chorale, Youth Chorale and Orchestra share a passion and hunger to learn, grow and contribute to a rich musical and social experience that is fun, creating joy in their lives and the lives of others. The mission is to “bring music to life” in the valley. www.syvchorale.org

Santa Ynez Valley Natural History Society

The society is dedicated to the study, exploration, and appreciation of natural history in the Santa Ynez Valley region. It offers free or lowcost educational opportunities through public lectures, field trips and workshops. 805-693-5683 synature@west.net www.syvnature.org

Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People

People Helping People has a vision that all men, women and children in our service area have the opportunity to attain self-sufficiency with dignity, are able to fulfill their potential, and live in a healthy community. 545 N. Alisal Road, Suite 102, Solvang 805-686-0295 www.syvphp.org

Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Preschool

Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Preschool was founded in 1962 as a nonprofit, nondenominational, Christ-centered ministry that seeks to promote the spiritual, emotional, mental, physical and social development of each child in its care. 1825 Alamo Pintado Road, Ballard 805-688-4440 www.syvpps.org

Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum

The museum and its Parks- Janeway Carriage House celebrate the rich history of the Santa Ynez Valley, its pioneering settlers and the five early townships that formed the foundation of this unique region. 3596 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez 806-688-7889 www.santaynezmuseum.org

Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society

The Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society provides and promotes humane, compassionate, and conscientious care of companion animals; seeks to prevent their overpopulation; and works to prevent cruelty to animals.

The Santa Ynez Valley “We Support The Troops” Association provides basic necessities of life, personal hygiene items, avenues of communication, educational materials and other basic materials that are generally available at home but not in the field. 806-688-8404 www.we-support-the-troops.org

St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Preschool

The school’s desire is to follow in the rich tradition of the Episcopal Church, where educational excellence is regarded and honored. St. Mark’s is a nonprofit preschool that welcomes all local children. 2901 Nojoqui Ave., Los Olivos. 805-688-4454 www.smitv.org

St. Vincent’s Circle V Ranch Camp

Circle V Ranch Camp embraces youth-centered programming and is committed to the growth and development of children through positive, meaningful and rewarding activities. 2550 Highway 154, near Cachuma Lake 806-688-5252 www.circlevranchcamp.org

Solvang School Arts and Music Foundation (SAM)

The SAM mission is to enrich the public school education of every student at Solvang School by providing financial and other resources to ensure that music and arts education are part of regular schooling.

The mission of the Santa Ynez Valley Therapeutic Riding Program is to provide quality equine-assisted activities to children and adults with physical, cognitive, social, emotional and or other life challenges, regardless of ability to pay. 195 Refugio Road, Santa Ynez www.syvtherapeuticriding.org

Santa Ynez Valley Youth Recreation

SYV Youth Rec has raised more than $3 million in the past 62 years for local youth programs and facilities. It has funded many projects at the high school, local elementary and middle schools, and the baseball and soccer fields and sand volleyball courts at Sunny Fields Park, among other accomplishments. www.syvyr.com

The mission of Veggie Rescue is to improve the nutrition and quality of life of community members who are struggling with food insecurity by providing them healthy, local produce, and to work with farmers to reduce food waste at the beginning of the food cycle. 805-350-9154 www.veggierescue.org

Vikings of Solvang

The Vikings of Solvang are a social and philanthropic organization that helps meet the medically related needs of qualified individuals and organizations in Santa Barbara County. www.vikingcharitiesinc.com

Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care

Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care provides comprehensive home health, hospice and related services to promote the health and wellbeing of all community residents. 2029 Village Lane, Solvang 805-965-5555 www.vnhcsb.org/solvang-branch, The Wildling’s mission is to inspire the community and visitors to enjoy, value, and conserve wildlife and natural areas through art. Its exhibits rotate constantly and it has special programs for school-aged children, lectures and workshops. 1511-B Mission Drive, Solvang 805-688-1082 www.wildlingmuseum.org

Solvang Theaterfest

Santa Ynez Valley Therapeutic Riding Program

Veggie Rescue

Wildling Museum of Art and Nature

www.solvangsam.com

Santa Ynez Valley Foundation

The Santa Ynez Valley Foundation focuses its grant-making on areas essential to the quality of life for people of all ages in our community. Grants are provided to nonprofit organizations serving Health & Human Services, Seniors, Youth, Education, and Arts & Culture. 485 Alisal Road, Suite 272, Solvang 805-688-2991 www.syvalleyfoundation.org

Santa Ynez Valley We Support the Troops

The mission of Theaterfest is to support and promote top-quality live performing arts in the Solvang Festival Theater. 433 Second St., Solvang. 805-686-1789 www.solvangfestivaltheater.org

Solvang Friendship House

Solvang Friendship House is an assisted-living community that provides seniors with a safe and comfortable community that they can call home. 880 Friendship Lane, Solvang. 805-688-8748 www.solvangfriendshiphouse.com

YMCA

The Stuart C Gildred Family YMCA is a branch of the Channel Islands YMCA, a charitable organization providing programs based upon Christian principles to men, women and children of all ages, races, religious beliefs, and economic status, to develop and enrich the spirit, mind and body. 900 North Refugio Road, Santa Ynez. 805-686-2037 www.ciymca.org/stuartgildred

Solvang Senior Center

The Solvang Senior Center strives to enhance the lives of community members, ages 55 and over, by providing resources and opportunities for growth in mind, body and spirit. 1745 Mission Drive. 805-688-3793 www.solvangseniorcenter.org

Camp Whittier

The camp operated by the United Boys and Girls Club of Santa Barbara County follows the BGCA’s “Formula for Impact” with programs that help youth achieve three priority outcomes: Academic Success, Good Character & Citizenship, and Healthy Lifestyles. 805-681-1315 www.unitedbg.org

United Way of Santa Barbara County

UWSBC’s mission statement is: “Right here, right now, with the Power of Partnership, we are improving lives for children, families, seniors, and you!” 805-965-8591 www.unitedwaysb.org

Youth Empowered

Youth Empowered is dedicated to teaching young people the value of healthy living, education, and being a positive and productive part of the community. The facility includes more than 2,500 square feet of fitness and workout areas as well as “Tutor Hall,” an on-site classroom. 320 Alisal Road, Suite 106, Solvang 805-819-1407 www.facebook.com/YouthEmpoweredSY

Zaca Preschool

Zaca Center Preschool recognizes that children develop at different rates and in different ways. Their curriculum is geared to the developmental needs of each individual child. 27 Six Flags Circle, Buellton 805-688-0050 www.zacacenterpreschool.weebly.com

10 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

Benefit car show will be rollin’ out the classics FYI

Wheels ’n’ Windmills continues to raise money in 20th anniversary year

The 20th annual Wheels ’n’ Windmills car show, a benefit for local charities and auto shop programs, will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, in downtown Solvang.

By Raiza Giorgi

news@santaynezvalleystar.com

he Vixens for Victory will be promoting their veterans outreach program by displaying their classic cars at the Wheels ’n’ Windmills Car Show on Aug. 24 in Solvang. The 20th anniversary of the car show will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. along Copenhagen Drive and several downtown side streets. “We want any locally deployed soldier to know that we care about them and want to help them make it through their tour with some necessities or fun items from home,” said Breann Hollon — also known as “Vixie Von Pawz” — of the Vixens for Victory. Hollon and her fellow Vixens help local organizations such as We Support the Troops in the packing of supplies at Bethania Lutheran Church in Solvang, and the Lompoc group Fallen Warrior Memorial. They are also starting a chapter in Ventura to help those deployed at Port Hueneme and the Ventura Veterans of Foreign Wars. “We like to dress up in pin-up style, and that really gets people to come to our cars

Photo contributed The Vixens for Victory will display their classic cars at the Wheels ’n’ Windmills Car Show, raising awareness for their veterans outreach program.

and talk about our passion to help veterans. We want to give back to those who have served our country and sacrificed to keep us safe,” Hollon added. The main purpose of Wheels ’n’ Windmills is to support high school automotive programs and local charities. The 2018 show raised more than $21,000, which was distributed to the SYV Aquatics Foundation, Alpha Pi sorority to support seniors,

New photo book showcases SB County wine country Staff Report

ocal photojournalist George Rose has released a limited-edition, large-format photography book titled “Wine Country, Santa Barbara County.” Photographs in the 188-page, 11-by-14inch coffee table book stunningly showcase every corner of a unique California coastal wine landscape. “My latest book is a celebration of Santa Bar- bara County, highlighting every wine appellation and “trail” in colorful fashion,” said Rose. “I’m deeply grateful to the dozens of sponsors who have helped make this book possible.” With a foreword by Wine Enthusiast critic Matt Kettmann, the book places great emphasis on Santa Barbara County’s distinctive geographical locations and features some of the area’s top vineyard estates.

Sponsors include Visit Santa Ynez Valley, Visit Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Vintners, Dierberg-Star Lane Vineyards, Pence Vineyards & Winery, Foxen Winery, Bien Nacido Vineyards & Solomon Hills Estate, Grassini Vineyards, Refugio Ranch, Jackson Family Wines, Melville Winery, Saarloos & Sons, Treasury Wine Estates, Stolpman Vineyards, and Zaca Mesa Winery. The book is not available in bookstores. To purchase a copy, visit any of the sponsoring wineries or www.georgerose.com. Individual copies are $80. For more information, email george@ georgerose.com.

Zaca Center Preschool, and the National Progeria Research Foundation. Money from the 2018 raffle of a V8 Crate engine and transmission was donated to Santa Ynez Valley Union High School to help its auto shop programs continue to thrive and to encourage students to get involved in working with cars. Organizer Bob Stokes said the show attracts upwards of 15,000 people and 300

cars — for which registration sold out in 10 days — as well as close to 40 car clubs that come to display some of their vehicles. The cutoff year for cars displayed is 1980, so nothing newer than that will be displayed. The car show has a yearly “best of the best” competition, where cars that have won in years past are all displayed next to each other. There is also a competition for each of the 34 car classes in the show, such as muscle, sport, and truck. Judges are not affiliated with the event or with any club. The show will also include booths from local vendors and merchants, raffle prizes, the V-8 engine raffle, music and more. For more information on Wheels ’n’ Windmills, go to www.wheelsnwindmills.com.

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August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 11

Lompoc Theatre Project also restoring ‘The Office’ Staff Report

he Lompoc Theatre Project continues to work hard at creating a performance venue for the entire Central Coast while restoring the heart of Lompoc, spokeswoman Heather Bedford says. The full restoration requires a continual effort, and what sometimes gets overlooked is the fact that the nonprofit group is reviving not just one important building, but two, she added. The second building, next to the theater, could be considered more historically important and is certainly older. The Lompoc Land Office was built in 1875 and currently rests at the back of the theater in the parking lot. Typically referred to as “The Why? Building,” it’s hard to miss with the original 1905 M.J.B. Coffee Company advertisement painted on the side in 1910. Ironically, the serious design flaw in the theater wound up saving the most important building to the founding of Lompoc, according to Bedford, a board member. “Our hopes are that once built, we can partner with organizations in the valley who would hold productions in our theater during the off season. Mark Herrier, our president, is a graduate of PCPA, he’s an actor currently on the TV show “Bosch,” and has directed PCPA plays during the summer at Solvang Festival Theater — most recently ‘Don Quixote’,” Bedford said. The Lompoc Theatre Project will support every performance endeavor of

Photo contributed The Land Office Building as it sits next to the theater today.

all nonprofits in an effort to enhance the culture of the artistic community of the Central Coast, she added. It currently rents buses to bring large groups of people from Lompoc to enjoy the plays at Solvang Festival Theater during the summer

seasons. “The theatre has almost perfect acoustics and will be a marvelous place for concerts and musical events,” she added. The Land Office the oldest commercial building still standing in Lompoc. It was

there that the first Lompoc plots were laid out, the first streets were named, and the first parcels were sold. Originally referred to as “The Office,” it was constructed with redwood and is lined on the inside with lath redwood. Decisions in the Land Office building also resulted in donations of land for El Camino Elementary School, Artesia School, Maple School, many churches, fraternal organizations, Miguelito Park and Evergreen Cemetery. The Office also funded The Lompoc Record in 1875 and the newspaper’s circulation across California resulted in an onslaught of people arriving and purchasing land in the almost deserted Lompoc valley, with more than 120 new buildings being built within the first year. Eventually the Land Company went bankrupt due to many disasters and was sold to the Hollister-Dibblee Land Company and later became a harness shop. When the theater opened in 1927, it quickly became apparent that there was inadequate space backstage for live performances. The problem was solved by moving the land office off H street and attaching it to the rear of the theater, where it became the dressing rooms and storage area for stage equipment. There are plans to fully fund the $250,000 needed to restore it and move it back up to the front of H street and to create a brick walk with benches and a fountain between it and the theater. For more information on the Lompoc Theatre Project, visit www.lompoctheatre.org.

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12 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

Lil’ Orphan Hammies offers safe haven for potbellied pigs By Katie Terou SYV Star Intern

local woman who started a pig rescue in the valley nearly 30 years ago is now taking care of more than 100 of them. No pig is too messy for Lil’ Orphan Hammies, which is a sanctuary for unwanted or neglected potbellied pigs. Valley resident Sue Parkinson began the effort in Solvang in 1992 in response to a fad of having the “teacup pigs” as pets, which resulted in many pigs being starved to keep them small. In addition to these neglected and malnourished pigs, Parkinson also rescues pigs from animal control and abuse cases. “There is no such thing as a micro/mini/ tea-cup pig. There are only starved pigs,” said Parkinson in her annual newsletter. Parkinson rescues pigs from a variety of situations. Her sanctuary spans five acres, and the pigs are able to roam the entire area. She has also built housing structures for shade and shelter. On hot days, the pigs make themselves mud baths to cool off. Lil’ Orphan Hammies cares for elderly, infirm, or unadoptable pigs and provides permanent respite for them; other pigs are adopted out to qualified new homes. Since its humble beginning, Lil’ Orphan Hammies has arranged adoption or secured rescue for more than 1,000 potbellied pigs. “These pigs aren’t penned,” said Parkinson. “Their whole life isn’t just sitting around

Photo contributed Hamlet the pig and Jane Mäger pose for a photo.

waiting for a meal. I let them do what they want.” Parkinson has one employee who helps her run Lil Orphan Hammies. She works a fulltime job and spends her time at home taking care of the pigs. From feeding and filling water bowls to raking and maintaining the infrastructure, there is lots to do on the farm.

“It’s a never-ending job,” she said. Parkinson has ties to several other pig rescues throughout the country. In recent years, she has become good friends with Diane Warren, a songwriter who operates a pig rescue in Southern California. The pair help each other find pigs to rescue from bad situations.

Since its humble beginning, Lil’ Orphan Hammies has arranged adoption or secured rescue for more than 1,000 potbellied pigs.

Lil’ Orphan Hammies also participates in several educational programs, including school visits and educating current or prospective owners on how to properly take care of their pigs. To learn more about Lil’ Orphan Hammies, visit www.lilorphanhammies.org.

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August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 13

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Photo contributed Alan Sonneman was awarded first prize for his oil painting, “Foxtail Pine, Western Slope of Cirque Peak, Sequoia National Park.”

Wildling Museum selects winning artists in juried exhibition Staff Report

n oil painting by Alan Sonneman won the $2,500 first-place prize in the Wildling Museum’s juried exhibition showcasing the national lands of California. More than 63 selected artworks were considered for $4,000 in awards. The exhibit will be on display through Jan. 20. Jurors Nathan Huff, George Rose and Stacey Otte-Demangate distributed awards at the opening reception for “Celebrating the National Lands of California” on July 20 at the museum in Solvang. The selection of Sonneman’s “Foxtail Pine, Western Slope of Cirque Peak, Sequoia National Park” was his second win at the Wildling, where he also took first place in 2016 at the museum’s inaugural juried competition, “Celebrating the National Parks of California.” “The southern entrance to Sequoia National Park is populated by a large grove of Foxtail Pines along Cirque Peak. This tree stands a few yards from the entrance marker of Sequoia National park on the Pacific Crest Trail at an elevation of 11,329 feet,” Sonneman said. “Their forms are carved by winter storms with winds that often exceed 100 miles per hour, stripping their bark to their core. They are some of the oldest living creatures on Earth, reaching over 4,000 years in age.” The second-place prize of $1,000 went to Lynn Hanson for “Fieldnotes, Channel Islands National Park,” a charcoal work featuring an Island Fox on a vintage Santa Cruz Channel nautical chart.

“The Channel Islands are visible on the horizon from the beaches near my home where I explore and take field notes nearly every day,” Hanson said. “I feel fortunate to have the magnificent Channel Islands National Park so near to me. This drawing is of the beloved Island Fox (Urocyon littoralis) which is found nowhere else on Earth, a natural choice to grace this authentic vintage chart of the Santa Cruz Channel.” For third place, a prize of $500 was awarded to Nancy Yaki for her acrylic painting, “Santa Monica Mountains.” Honorable mentions were awarded to Sue Britt for “Spring Cove at Point Reyes,” Robert Cooke for “Zabriskie Point,” Ivan Hernandez for “Spring Serenade,” Mariah Reading for “El (Hub)Capitan II,” and Blake Whitaker for “Joshua Tree.” Works featured in the exhibition are available for sale with 40 percent of proceeds benefitting the Wildling Museum. Support for the exhibition was provided by the Wood-Claeyssens Foundation, Pete and Becky Adams, Tierra Alta Vineyards, and donors to the Patti Jacquemain Exhibition Fund. The Wildling Museum is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. weekends and closed Tuesdays. For more information, and to volunteer and/or join as a member to support The Wildling, visit www.wildlingmuseum.org.

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14 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

SYV Master Chorale to sing in Austria Group recruiting singers for rehearsal season beginning Aug. 27 Staff Report

he Santa Ynez Valley Master Chorale is recruiting new singers as it plans not only its traditional seasonal concerts but also a trip to a choral festival in Salzburg, Austria, in June 2020. Rehearsals for the choir’s annual holiday concert in December will begin on Tuesday, Aug. 27. The program will include many favorites as well as new music celebrating “Christmas Around the World.” Singers (17 and older) who are new to the chorale can meet the director and other chorale members at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 2672 Janin Way, Solvang, at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 27 for a brief, low-key audition. Returning members will arrive at 7 p.m. Auditions will also made also be held, by appointment, from Aug. 20 – 27; call Director Michael Eglin at 805-757-9482. Rehearsals are every Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m., with two or three additional practices just prior to concerts in December. The chorale has accepted an invitation to perform Mozart’s “Coronation Mass” in Salzburg, Austria, in June 2020 along with several other choral groups from around the U.S. The cost per person will be approximately $4,200 for a six-day, four-night stay in Salzburg. Transportation, lodging and most meals are provided and

Photo contributed Members of the Santa Ynez Valley Master Chorale’s governing board for 2019-20 include, left to right, Casey Bemis, Richard Lane, Becky Reid, President Erica Miller, Vida Gustafson, Kay Dominguez, Director Michael Eglin, Shane Berg, Edna Berg and Dana Stewart.

singers may invite a guest to join them on the trip. Extended travel may be arranged individually. The Chorale will be holding a fundraiser so that scholarships will be available to singers who need financial assistance to be able to go. Rehearsals for the “Coronation Mass” will start in January. For more information, call Eglin at 805-757-9482. The chorale’s new governing board for 2019-20 will be led by President Erica Miller, an accomplished vocalist and musician. Other officers include: Dr. Michel Elgin (director), Casey Bemis (vice president), Richard Lane (treasurer), Dana Stewart (secretary), Edna and Shane Berg,

Kay Dominguez, Ted Dorsey, Vida Gustafson, Inge Plier and Becky Reid. The board is committed to making the chorale accessible to all who want to sing regardless of financial status. The seasonal fee to cover music and rehearsal costs has been reduced to $50 per semester, and scholarships are available. “My goal is to help the chorale be a group that has fun collaborating together to make beautiful music — the fun part is very important! I hope you will join us,” Miller said. The chorale’s director, Dr. Michael Eglin. has a bachelor’s of music degree in composition and piano performance

as well as master’s and Ph.D. degrees in composition. He teaches music at Santa Barbara City College and was the founder and artistic director for the Adelfos Men’s Ensemble. Some of his compositions have aired on NPR’s “Performance Today.” The chorale is a member-supported nonprofit organization that performs diverse choral music accompanied by professional musicians. More information is available at www. syvchorale.org or by emailing info@syvchorale.org.

August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 15

Researchers to discuss ‘Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island’ Staff Report

he true-life story of Juana Maria, depicted in “Island of the Blue Dolphins” by Scott O’Dell, is a classic literary work that is part of educational curriculum for school children everywhere, just as it was for their parents years ago. South Coast residents have a deeper connection to this story due to the proximity to Juana Maria’s home on nearby San Nicolas Island in the Channel Islands. Local academics have done extensive research to learn more about her solitary life and survival in this remote place, but major questions remain. Was she or wasn’t she completely alone on the island? Did she actually encounter other people on the island before she was found and taken to Santa Barbara? The Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum is inviting the public to attend “Mysteries of The Lone Woman of San Nicolas Revealed!” at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27. Doors open at 4 p.m. for a Back-to-School Open House prior to the talk. John R. Johnson, Ph.D., Curator of Anthropology at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, and Susan Morris, a historical researcher and expert on the Lone Woman, will present current research about Juana Maria’s life. Recent archaeological discoveries

Photo contributed Juana Maria, the real-life “Lone Woman,” is the central character in Scott O’Dell’s classic “Island of the Blue Dolphins.”

and historical research have uncovered new details that help us understand why

she may have remained on San Nicolas Island – perhaps not so alone as previ-

ously believed, a museum spokesman said. Researchers have uncovered what is believed to have been her sheltered cave as well as two redwood boxes with a cache of artifacts that are likely to have belonged to her. The hour-long presentation is part of the museum’s back-to-school “Focus on Education” open house, which is geared toward local educators, parents and their students. Information will be shared on the museum’s school tour programs and current classroom materials targeting elementary history and social studies standards, followed by The Lone Woman presentation. Admission is a suggested donation of $5 per adult and free for children. Teachers and school administrators are invited to attend for free. Light refreshments will be served, with beer and wine available for purchase. “This event is a great way to kick off the school year,” said Theresa Reilly, curator of education for the museum. “We get an opportunity to showcase our educational initiatives to the community and bring history alive. It’s exciting to call attention to new research on Juana Maria conducted by leading anthropology experts that live in our region.” An RSVP is requested by calling Reilly or Teresa Mills at 805-688-7889, emailing education@santaynezmuseum.org or visiting santaynezmuseum.org.

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Photo contributed Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Auxiliary members were honored with recognition pins and charms celebrating their thousands of hours of cumulative volunteer service during the annual “Thank You Picnic” at the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum.

SYV hospital auxiliary celebrates volunteers Staff Report

“The Solvang Senior Center strives to enhance the lives of community members, ages 55 and over, by providing resources and opportunities for growth in mind, body and spirit.” 1745 Mission Drive Solvang, CA 93463 • Ph.(805) 688-3793 • www.solvangseniorcenter.org

he volunteer members of the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Auxiliary provided 13,500 hours of service during 2018 to the hospital. The organization, founded in 1962, has members volunteering in six service areas including hospital front desk, ambassadors, surgical services, emergency department and van drivers, as well operating the popular New to You Shop at 1689 Oak St. in downtown Solvang. “We are so grateful to all of these volunteers who selflessly share their time, talents, care and, most of all, compassion,” said hospital Vice President Wende Cappetta. “These Auxiliary volunteers are an integral part of our hospital, providing thousands of hours of support each year.” At the annual “Thank You Picnic” held recently at the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum, auxiliary members were honored for their

cumulative hours of service volunteerism. Recognition pins and charms were given to 37 volunteers who had achieved specific levels of service during 2018. Charms recognizing cumulative lifetime service were bestowed to Judy Duffy for 5,000 hours; Kathy Erb for 4,000 hours, Lois Mark for 3,000 hours, JoAnn Taylor for 2,500, and Barry Kuntz and Janice Kuntz for 2,000 hours. Additional charms as well as pins signifying 100, 400, 700, 1,000 and 1,500 hours or more of service were also awarded. New auxiliary members are always needed and welcomed. For more information about auxiliary membership and volunteering, contact Martine Surey at 805-686-3971 or msurey@ sbch.org. The hospital’s volunteer website page has more information at http://www.cottagehealth.org/santa-ynez-valley-cottage-hospital/volunteer .

16 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

Childhood fascination results in a garden railroad Don Morgan says he caught ‘the train bug’ early in life By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

estled in the Santa Ynez Valley, with a sweeping vista of Figueroa and Grass Mountains, lies a garden railroad where working G-gauge model trains navigate through sculpted miniature forests to delight the child within. At the entrance to Don and Linda Morgan’s home is a vintage railroad crossing that bars passage as one would an oncoming train. Meandering through the walkways surrounded by 700 dwarf Alberta spruce and redwood trees, a visitor is transported into a Disneyesque environment with miniature trains making their way through forests, over bridges and around a koi pond, with whistles signaling their passage. Two antique railway crossings, a Griswold crossing and a wig wag crossing, both of which are still fully operational, are Morgan’s treasured pieces in his vast collection of locomotive memorabilia. “The Griswold railroad crossing was common in the pre-World War II era, which I purchased from an auction in Missouri. It is extremely rare. It was transported to my home in a large crate and deposited in my driveway. I was out in the middle of the night with my flashlight trying to get the thing out of the crate and into the garden,” he recalled. “The wig wag railroad crossing is also very rare. You can still see them around, but not often. I purchased it from a man in Arroyo Grande who had it stored in his barn,” he continued. “Nobody else has these two railroad crossings. They belong in a railroad museum. To find them in good shape and still working is almost impossible.” “It all started about 25 years ago,” Morgan explained. “I had built a koi pond in the garden, but the herons kept eating the fish. I decided I had to deepen the pond and raise up the sides with rocks to keep the birds from lunching on my fish. I went to a garage sale, here in the valley, and met a man who was selling some trains and he invited me to an open house to see an outdoor garden railway. We liked the idea so much that I decided to build one myself.

Photos by Devyn Marseilles Don, Linda and Spike enjoy a respite in front of the line shack, which Morgan built with uneven wood planks.

The construction of the garden railway began around the koi pond in an effort to keep herons from eating the fish. Pictured in the rear is a rare wig wag railroad crossing.

A Griswold railroad crossing signal, a very rare find, is a focal point in the garden railway.

“I started the first phase around the koi pond and then I just kept on going. When we saw the trains all set up, we decided to join the Gold Coast Garden Railroad Society. Members of the club tour each other’s garden railways once a month. There are about 50 or 60 members of the club. They came to visit here on May 4th. We put on a little party for the group. Only one other member of our club has a garden train in the Santa Ynez Valley.” Morgan eventually added a life-size caboose, which he built himself many years ago. It houses an authentic caboose seat, which holds a huge, serenading animatronic bear. “I purchased the bear at Walmart and took it apart, and wired it to sing the Wabash Can-

nonball,” said Morgan. “There are no cabooses anymore. They used to carry the crew. It was also an area where the conductor could conduct business, but there is no need for them any longer.” On the side of the caboose is a painting of a German shepherd that was painted by Atto Alexander, the late local sign painter, for Morgan’s 65th birthday. Shepherds have always been Morgan’s canine companion of choice, and “Spike” was both a member of the family and a guard dog. To the far right of the garden stands a line shack that was also designed and built by Morgan with the help of his gardener. It is constructed out of uneven wood planks, and it is a

favorite spot for the Morgans to sit and take in the expansive view, both of the mountains and of the garden railway. “Most all of the huge rock boulders you see in the garden were retrieved from around the area,” said Morgan. “It took a lot of effort to haul them up here.” “I’ve always loved trains – the old steam engines were my favorite,” he continued. “When I was a little boy I had a train set – still have it, as a matter of fact. I grew up close to train tracks and as a boy I used to write down the names of all the box cars as they passed by. I guess you can say I’m crazy about trains – they are my passion. “It’s hard for me at my age to maintain this garden anymore and no, I’m not expanding it any further,” he said firmly. “With all of the rain last year, although welcome, they did produce a lot of weeds which have to be attended to, and that’s no small job.” The Morgans recently took the train to Spokane to attend a garden railroad convention. “We were on the train for several days. I have to say, getting up to the top berth was very difficult for me. I felt like I was sleeping in a coffin,” he joked. Originally from Vancouver, Canada, the Morgan family moved to California when he was 14 years old. He worked for the Southern California Gas Company until he semi-retired in 1998. The company continues to bring him back when they need his expertise. He says he has always been mechanically inclined and that even as a kid he worked in a bowling alley repairing the automatic pin-setting system. The Morgans moved to the Valley in 1980. They were married in 1962. They have two girls and a boy, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. “None of our children or grandchildren seem to have any interest in trains, so unless one of our great-grandchildren has inherited the train bug, then when we’re gone, so will the garden railway. But it has been a real pleasure to create, a labor of love, and a great way to meet people and make friends,” Morgan said. Although the garden railway is not open to the public, Morgan occasionally opens it up for a good cause under certain conditions. He can be reached by email at teddiesandtrains@ aol.com.

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18 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

SENIOR FITNESS

Mobility is the foundation of proper movement By James Riley

Contributing Writer

itness and good movement skills require sufficient strength, cardio endurance, efficient biomechanics and mobility — and of these four acquired physical traits, mobility is the most important. Mobility is the muscle range of motion that allows all aspects of the joint to articulate. Sufficient mobility is required for good biomechanics, which are needed to gain cardio endurance and strength. Mobility permits quality alignment that allows the body to

properly bear stress and make free, fluid and joyful movement. We don’t want overly loose joints nor stiff joints. What is needed is mobility that allows our muscles to reach our natural ranges of motion so we can maintain good alignment (good stress-bearing mechanics) as we move actively throughout the day. Moving well begins with posture, that dirty word your parents and P.E. teacher used when you slouched. Posture was once actually taught in school, but I digress. With good posture, breathing is more efficient, joints are aligned, stress forces are at a minimum and your muscles are all the right length for reflexively good alignment. Yes, we are genetically predisposed to have good posture. Chil-

dren naturally develop well-aligned posture at a young age. A plumb bob could be dropped from the ear lobe of most 5-year-old kids and the line would run through the center of the shoulder joint and hip socket and reach the floor at the front edge of the heel bone. Nature wired us to be so aligned. Observe the average adult tourist walking about Solvang and you will be unlikely to view good posture. You most likely will observe a forward head, rounded shoulders and short strides indicative of tight hip flexors, and people falling into a shuffling stride as they move. What happened to the well-aligned child they once were? Why did they develop poor posture and lose the mobility they had in their youth? The bottom line underlying all movement is that the body responds to the stresses put upon it. Put simply, the body will adapt and shape to the activities we ask it to do. Many seniors sit for long periods and move infrequently. It’s called the sedentary lifestyle, often a habit learned as a requirement of the modern office job or past school attendance. Prolonged sitting, especially when working at the computer or watching TV, encourages a forward head position, a collapsed ribcage and elevated shoulder blades. Sitting creates a 90-degree bend at the hips and knees, which shortens the hip flexor and hamstring muscles. That pulls us into poor alignment as we stand and move. Through prolonged sitting and a sedentary lifestyle, we have effectively taught our body that mobility is no longer needed. That results in poor alignment and movement quality. Lack of mobility in the ribcage and hips and

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a forward head position create tight muscles that draw us into poor posture. How do we develop and maintain mobility in our rib cage-shoulder complex and hips? And how do we regain a vertical head position for good postural alignment? Frequent proper stretching and mental focus are the remedy for muscle tightness, and it requires some assessment expertise. The cheapest and most effective solution is to take a mobility class such as yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi or other fundamental movement class — a beginning, uncrowded class led by a teacher who understands mobility, emphasizes good biomechanics and provides assessment and correction for poor alignment. Pay close attention, ask questions, take notes, and follow through by practicing daily stretching movements at home. Go to class to gain the knowledge, then stretch daily at home to gain the mobility. Little will be gained by just going to a class twice weekly and not following through at home. A class is for learning. Improving mobility also requires the mental focus to practice good alignment during the day. Posture is driven by reflex and motor pattern. It is learned over time. What is learned can be unlearned and corrected, but it takes time and mental focus. Poor posture comes about after prolonged poor practice, and it will take time and mental focus to create your improved alignment. A healthier you is worth the effort. Mobility gives you permission to move well. Is mobility work worth the time and effort? You bet it is: Your quality of life depends on it.

August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 19

GENEALOGY TIPS

Useful records continue to be digitized, put online By Sheila Benedict Contributing Writer

hat really was the purpose of creating records by cities, counties, states, and federal governments? It certainly was not because someone said that in the future genealogists would need them! On the contrary, revenue collection – taxes on income, on property, even on farm animals — required records so that they could be enumerated. In 1850 when California became a state, a law was signed by the first governor, Peter Burnett, creating 27 counties. As time went on, other counties were created out of those and today we have 58. For example, Santa Barbara County was one of the original counties and in 1872, a portion of it became Ventura County. Another example is Riverside County, which in 1893 was formed from portions of San Bernardino and San Diego counties. Many larger counties have separate vital records registrar and recorder offices. In smaller counties, the functions are usually handled by one office. In 1905, a law was passed requiring all counties to start recording vital records. For genealogy research it is necessary, however, to check county by county websites or by telephone to find out what their regulations are regarding those records. Unless you are traveling out of town, I do not suggest an in-person visit until you know those regulations. In recent years, many privacy laws have been added, and access to some records require different time and family restrictions.

In California, there are only a few cities that keep copies of vital records. Most are at county offices. For example, Pasadena and Long Beach keep records, but Los Angeles County and the state office in Sacramento have copies of them as well. There are indexes to vital and court records available by county and by state that can help researchers find the original records, which are what all genealogists strive to obtain. An index entry is important to lead to those original records, but the information within the record can be extensive while the index is minimal at best. Of equal importance are those trips to a hometown, a library, an old neighbor, cemeteries, and other places. Just know that a law in California may not be the same law, for example, as in Illinois. Going back to where ancestors came from could be the best trip you ever made, genealogically speaking. Two final notes: The first is that every day new records are digitized and put online. Create a log and study up-to-date genealogy texts about how to cite your sources. Not recording as soon as obtaining a record could mean going back to square one because you don’t remember where the source material was located. That does not mean everything is there – it will take years, if ever, to make a large dent in the records generated worldwide. The second is a reminder: document, document, document all those sources you find. Happy ancestor hunting! Sheila Benedict is a local professional genealogist. To ask questions or get more information, email news@santaynezvalleystar.com.

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20 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

Nanette Virden publishes young-adult novel

Local writer’s first book is set in the Santa Ynez Valley By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

anette Virden has published “The Secret of Emma Pryce,” which is the first in a trilogy of young adult fantasy romance novels. It’s a story of a young girl coping with her sophomore year in high school, her challenges, quests and romance — and a family curse. The story takes place in the Santa Ynez Valley, and readers will find many familiar establishments mentioned throughout the book. Virden was diagnosed with a seizure disorder in her youth, while living in Torrance. In 1986, she moved with her parents to the more tranquil Santa Ynez Valley. “At the age of 10 I started to have grand mal seizures. I was shy and withdrawn growing up. I felt like an outcast in high school, but English class was where I found the perfect way to overcome those obstacles,” Virden said. “I used the experience I had from having unexpected seizures along with my love of fantasy to form the framework of my book.” With her teachers’ encouragement, she began writing short stories and poetry. Over the years, she has continued to find writing a great way to conquer her shyness and says it is a “great therapy.” She has been seizure-free for the past 15 years. “I’ve always been interested in fantasy — actually, fantasy is what got me through my seizures as a child. Fantasy, mythology and folklore have always fascinated me,” she continued. “I love to read and I’m a fan of comedies and historical movies and television programs as well.” Virden developed the ideas for her Emma Pryce series in 2010. “One day I thought, ‘I’m going to write a book,’ so I went upstairs and got a pencil and paper and started to write about a teenage girl,

Photos contributed Nanette Virden sits on her porch with her dog, Cowboy.

Emma, who is coping with her sophomore year in high school, the loss of a dear family member, and the romantic feelings she is having for a certain boy. “Just before her 16th birthday she begins to have strange dreams and warning signs that something was going to happen to her on her birthday, something that would change her life forever, in a way she never could have imagined. And it’s all because of a family curse. She tries to escape from it but eventually has to face the reality of the situation,” Virden explained. “I gave it to friends to read and they said, ‘This is really good.’ My acupuncturist then offered to find me an editor. The editor read the first chapter and she said, ‘This is good,’ and then gave me a little advice. “I started making the changes she’d mentioned and the 12 chapters soon grew to 36 and now comprise three volumes,” Virden mused. “It was necessary for me to go back and edit those portions that didn’t move the story along, even

though I loved them. … The first book has 19 chapters and a prologue. What started off to be a single book has now become a trilogy, according to my editor. “I have a great editor and publisher,” she said. “They are very helpful. I listen to them and respect their advice and take it, mostly. But when I insist on something, they listen to me as well.” Research for the Emma Pryce series included a trip to Ireland, where Emma discovers the secret behind the curse. “I had initially found Emma in Ireland searching for the family curse, but I realized that I couldn’t write about what I didn’t know,” said Virden. “So in 2011 I took a trip to Ireland. What I saw was fantastic. It fed my imagination, therefore my story line. I also studied Irish languages and folklore.” Themes from Virden’s own life permeate her stories about Emma, from residing in the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Olivos areas, to home, family, close ties with friends, appreciation of

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nature’s bounty, and her love of animals. Those elements mirror Virden’s own close relationships with her sister, who did the graphic work on the cover of her book, and with her brother who lives in Long Beach. Now retired, Virden spends time writing, being with her family, and caring for her pets. She volunteers her time and efforts to “Support the Troops,” a group that sends supplies to members of the military. Volume I of the Emma Pryce series is now available on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Goodreads, and locally at the Book Loft in Solvang. Volume II in the trilogy is in early editing and is expected to be out by the end of the year or in early 2020. It will be about Emma’s journey in Ireland and titled “The Secret of Irish Rose”

For more information, email nvirden@ yahoo.com.

August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 21

Local bus ridership seeing huge increases Staff Report

ontrary to national trends, bus ridership on Santa Ynez Valley Transit’s fixed routes has increased by 23 percent in 2019 compared to the same period in the previous year, according to Matt van der Linden, Solvang’s Public Works Director and City Engineer. In June alone, ridership on Santa Ynez Valley Transit (SYVT) buses leaped by 59.5 percent from June 2018, he added. “This is certainly something to celebrate,” van der Linden said. “Increasing mobility while decreasing air pollution and traffic is obviously extremely important to residents of the Santa Ynez Valley. “Last summer we started encouraging residents to use SYVT for specific trips such as to the library, school, or a medical appointment,” he added. “SYVT also focused on sharing service information with residents who rarely or never ride

transit to encourage them to use the bus as a second car.” SYVT is funded through a memorandum of understanding between the cities of Buellton and Solvang and Santa Barbara County. At the same time it was crafting its new message in the summer of 2018, SYVT retooled its fixed-route service to provide extended service and stop times so residents could take advantage of van der Linden’s idea of the “second car.” However, he said, he would like valley residents to do even more. “If each resident were to replace one driving trip with one transit trip every two weeks, we could see an extreme reduction in traffic, noise, and pollution,” van der Linden said. For information, visit www.syvt.com or call 805-688-5452.

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Photo contributed The Santa Barbara Kennel Club will celebrate its centennial anniversary on Aug. 24-25 at Earl Warren Showgrounds.

Dog shows to mark SB Kennel Club’s 100th year Staff Report

he Santa Barbara Kennel Club is celebrating its centennial anniversary this year as part of a weekend of all-breed dog shows on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 24-25, at Earl Warren Showgrounds. Norwegian judge Espen Engh will adjudicate Best in Show on Sunday. This year’s show is sponsored by long-time partner Purina ProPlan, and entries will be administered by Jack Bradshaw Dog Show Superintendents, www.jbradhsaw. com. Santa Barbara Kennel Club has been one of the premiere kennel clubs in the U.S. since hosting its first show in 1919. Historically, the club has hosted an inter-

national array of competitors and spectators including celebrities from the fields of entertainment and sports. Gary Cooper handled his own Sealyham terrier to Best in Show in 1936. The first show in Santa Barbara was held in the Palm Court of the Belvedere Hotel, and Best in Show was awarded to a cocker spaniel from Mission Kennels. SBKC shows have celebrated purpose-bred dogs through a series of special events ranging from exhibition whippet races 60 years ago to the recent traditions of Bullyganza and Sighthound Spectacular. For more information, visit www.sbkcdogs.org.

22 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

Santa Barbara County Farm Day to show off ag industry Inaugural event Sept. 28 will offer free self-guided tours of farming, related operations in Santa Maria Valley By Janene Scully

Noozhawk North County Editor

s a second-generation family farmer, Jeff Lundberg looks forward to sharing information about growing specialty vegetables and educating the public regarding one of many ag businesses in their backyard. The inaugural Santa Barbara County Farm Day on Sept. 28 will offer free self-guided tours of a variety of ag and related businesses in the Santa Maria Valley, with the open house events meant to inform residents about the key industry. After learning about a similar effort in Ventura County from a colleague, Lundberg said, he welcomed the chance to participate in a local Farm Day. “It sounded like a good thing for Santa Maria to be doing,” said Lundberg, president/chief executive officer of Babé Farms. “I’ve always felt like the public’s perception of agriculture is far from accurate,” he

Photo contributed Jeff Lundberg is chief executive officer and president of Babé Farms, one of the ag industry businesses that will host tours during the inaugural Santa Barbara County Farm Day on Sept. 28.

added. “The misconceptions and misunderstandings of what we do and how we do it are very prevalent in the general public. I’m looking forward to just breaking some of

those misnomers.” Twelve locations, ranging from growers and a community college to a laboratory and composting operation, will host visitors

for tours, taste-testing and demonstrations between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sept. 28. The names of participants hosting tours that day will be available on the event’s website, www.santabarbaracountyfarmday. com. The Santa Barbara County Farm Day builds up upon the success of a similar event in Ventura County, which marks its seventh year in 2019. Farm Day will be presented by Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture or SEEAG, a Ventura-based nonprofit focused on educating children about the origins of their food from field to table, Mary Maranville, founder and chief executive officer of SEEAG, said a children’s tour of a farming operation planted the seed for Farm Day when some parents appeared flabbergasted about the $2 billion ag industry in their own community. “In addition they would just ask me questions like do these growers pay the workers. Do they make minimum wage. The questions were very telling about the fact that they did not have any idea about local agriculture,” Maranville said. She approached Ventura County growers to gauge interest on hosting educational tours. SB COUNTY FARM CONTINUED TO PAGE 27

TUESDAY

SUNDAY

9/8

8/27 4 pm OPEN HOUSE

5 pm Mysteries of the Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island Revealed! Presented by: John R. Johnson, Ph.D., Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History & Susan Morris.

4 pm The Old Spanish Trail: A documentary film by Benedicte Schoyen tracking the journey of three men riding 1,200 miles on horseback. Ned Clark, film composer, will perform.

$5.00 donAtion – kids & educAtors free

$15.00 members , $20 non members

2019 Fall Event Round-Up, Join Us! FRI-SAT-SUN

SUNDAY

11/8 11/10

9/29 & 10/27

9/29, 4 pm Dreamers & Wayfarers – The Way West: A Nation Complete from Sea to Sea. 10/27, 4 pm Townspeople: Taming the West. Presented by: John Copeland, Producer and SYVHM Board Member. $15.00 members , $20 non members

11/8, 5 - 9 pm 35th Annual Vivan Los Vaqueros! Sale Preview Party & Gala Dinner. 11/9 & 11/10, Vaquero Show & Sale: Bits, spurs, saddles, chaps, braided rawhide, silver ornamentation, fine art, home décor, Vaquero memorabilia and traditional Vaquero horsemanship demonstrations. $5.00 Adults – kids free

Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum

PARKS-JANEWAY CARRIAGE HOUSE 3596 SAGUNTO STREET, SANTA YNEZ, CA 93460 • (805) 688-7889 • www.santaynezmuseum.org

Reservations encouraged: info@santaynezmuseum.org

August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 23

John, Brandy Branquinho celebrate Fiesta Rodeo as Honored Vaqueros By Raiza Giorgi

publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com

s she looks back at this year’s Old Spanish Days Fiesta, Brandy Branquinho says that riding in her father’s restored wagon in the Historical Parade was one of the many highlights. “I remember riding around on that wagon as a child with my father, and getting to ride in it — let alone see it again — is a memory I will cherish,” she said. Branquinho and her husband John were named this year’s Honored Vaqueros at the 95th Fiesta Stock Horse Show and Rodeo, which ran from Aug. 1-4 at Earl Warren Showgrounds in Santa Barbara. The multigenerational ranching family from Los Alamos has spent many years participating in this time-honored event, and they love the camaraderie that comes with it. “For years we have looked up to all the past Vaqueros and are friends with many of them. We are so thankful to the rodeo committee for letting us be a part of this history,” she added. Branquinho has a long history in the ranch lifestyle. She is a fifth-generation Californian, and her great-great-greatgrandfather, José Francisco Ortega, was the first captain of El Presidio de Santa

Photos by Lauren Maeve Photography Brandy and John Branquinho, seated, were named this year’s Honored Vaqueros at the 95th annual Old Spanish Days Fiesta Stock Horse Show & Rodeo.

The youngest of the Branquinhos, 3-year-old Bear, earned his first buckle in dummy roping at the rodeo.

Bárbara, which was established in 1782. She grew up in Los Alamos with her parents, Nancy and Bill Luton. John Branquinho is a third-generation Californian whose grandparents came to the Santa Maria Valley in the 1800s. He was raised in Garey, outside Santa Maria, where his parents, Ellinore and John Branquinho, raised cattle and farmed. The Branquinhos met in the fall of 1969, were married in 1972 and have three sons — Tony (and his wife Sharla), Casey (and his wife Nicole) and Luke (and his wife Lindsay). The couple has nine grandchildren — Cersten, Kylee, Blake, Betty, Trinety Taylor, Cade, Jameson and Bear — and most of them competed and took home awards in this year’s rodeo. The littlest 3-year-old Bear, won his first competition ever, getting the buckle for dummy roping. “We are so lucky to have our family be close and still live this lifestyle of running around the ranch and being in rodeos. As you go through the years, it’s also so fun to see all the kids we’ve known and taught grow up and bring their kids to the rodeo,” Branquinho said.

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24 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

The Bakery Farmstand offers sweet treats By Pamela Dozois Contributing Writer

estled behind a hedgerow of greenery in Los Olivos lies a little garden retreat known as The Bakery Farmstand where, one morning a week, those in the know can enjoy a little bit of sweet culinary heaven. Passing drivers would barely notice it was there, except for a quaint little sign on the side of the road informing passersby when the farm stand is open. Owners Tracy Fleming and Glenn Landon, a husband and wife team, opened the Bakery Farmstand in July 2013, offering an assortment of baked goods for sale such as muffins, scones, cakes, breads, quiche, homemade pop tarts, Bundt cakes, pies and tartlets, a variety of cookies, and their famous homemade marshmallows. “We started with a little chalk board on the side of the road, which someone stole, and a little table with an umbrella in the driveway,” said Fleming. “Now we can accommodate larger groups of people to enjoy our garden and our baked goods, but by appointment only. We mainly do private parties, but we are open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, serving baked goods in our garden. ” Fleming has been a part of the food industry from childhood. Her mother was a food stylist in the television industry and she had the opportunity to learn first-hand how to create unique and tasty occasions. “My mother worked as a food stylist (previously known as a home economist, back in the day) for the Dinah Shore Show. I remember as a young teenager helping my mother cut vegetables while Burt Reynolds, who was dating Dinah Shore at the time, sat

Photos by Pamela Dozois A quaint roadside sign informs passersby when the farm stand is open.

Glenn Landon transformed the back yard into an area where people can play, eat and enjoy each other’s company.

Tracy Fleming loves to bake, and she shares her expertise every Saturday morning with the public in her garden.

in a chair watching us prepare the food,” she recalled. “I think my ability to look at the big picture came from my mother,” said Fleming. “She was very organized and I learned how to prepare meals for large groups of people.” While living in Los Angeles, Fleming owned her own catering business called Serves You Right, eventually selling it to her partner. “We did a lot of really fun and imaginative parties for the music industry,” Fleming recalled. “I decided to sell my business because I wanted to spend more time with my son. The catering business consumes a lot of weekends,” she said. “I needed a normal Monday-through-Friday job, so I went to work at the Nestle Test Kitchen in Glendale, where I remained for five years. My mother also worked there, but we were in different departments. “I was looking to have my son attend Santa Barbara Junior High School, as it was a good time in our lives for a change of scenery,” she said. “I started a little cookie company, along with my mother, called ‘Ocean View Sweets,’ which featured marshmallow squares, truffle cookies and shortbread. The company exploded when an article about us was featured in Saveur Magazine, ranking us third out of 100 on their ‘Best List’ for 2000. We were selling our baked goods all over the country. Almost as fast as that happened, my mother was diagnosed with cancer.” “After junior high, my son wanted to attend Dunn School, so we decided to move to Los Olivos,” said Fleming. “For years my husband and I had the idea of opening a bakery. But when negotiations for the purchase of one fell through, I went to work at UCSB THE BAKERY CONTINUED TO PAGE 28

Celebrate summer with Blueberry Buckle By Vida Gustafson

1 tsp vanilla extract/essence 2-3 c blueberries Vanilla ice cream (for serving) If you do not have self-rising flour, you can make it by adding 1 1/2 tsp baking powder and 1/2 tsp salt to 1 cup of regular all-purpose flour.

Contributing Writer

’ve recently come back from visiting my parents in Oregon and I wanted to come up with a recipe that really reflects the region and its lovely long days of summer. This homey hybrid between a buckle and a cobbler is perfect for this time of year, whatever berry you use. The batter is simple and very nearly quicker to put together than a box cake. I lucked out by finding gobs and gobs of big, juicy Northwest blueberries and they are what I built this recipe around. In various ways it is similar to both a buckle and a cobbler, but it is undoubtedly delicious.

Method

Ingredients

1 c self-rising flour 1 c evaporated milk 1 1/4 c plus 2 tbsp sugar 4 tbsp melted butter

Photo by Vida Gustafson This hybrid dessert can use any berry you have available.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a baking dish (I used 11-by-7-by-4 inches, and anything comparable will work). Keep in mind a smaller baking dish will need a longer baking time because the batter will not be as spread out. In a large bowl, mix together your self-rising flour, evaporated milk, one cup of sugar and the melted butter. Pour the batter into your baking dish and top with the berries. Sprinkle the additional 1/4 cup of sugar evenly over the top. Bake for 1 hour, sprinkle with the remaining 2 tbsp of sugar, and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 25

Los Olivos School hires new superintendent-principal By Raiza Giorgi publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com

icky Dudeck didn’t find a niche in education until after college, when she met and married her husband Joe. Because of his passion for teaching kids, Dudeck decided to see what education was all about, and she ended up back in school to get her teaching credentials. “He is still so passionate about education and the importance of how this shapes these kids’ lives. When I first became a teacher in my late 20s, I saw how hard this job was, but how rewarding it was as well,” she said. Dudeck was recently named the new superintendent-principal for Los Olivos Elementary, and even before the school year started she talked about how much she loves the area and the campus. “I’ve met a lot of the staff and teachers, and they are all so great. I cannot wait for the kids to show up and get the school year started,” Dudeck said. She said she wants to start every day by greeting students and connecting with their parents. She’s lived in the Santa Ynez Valley for just a few months, moving from her home in Corona. Her husband is still work-

Photo contributed New Los Olivos Superintendent-Principal Vicky Dudeck said she found a passion for education after marrying her husband, Joe.

ing at a school in Moreno Valley, where he has spent more than two decades building up a music education program. “I think he’s going to end up here most of the time because it is so beautiful here,” she said with a laugh. Dudek received her master’s degree

in educational technology from National University and completed her Ed.D. at USC. Before coming to Los Olivos she was a principal in the Moreno Valley Unified School District and was also a professor at Concordia University in Irvine, where she taught teachers.

“Coming from a large school district I have ideas, and wanting to give the students at Los Olivos all the opportunities afforded those at larger schools. I want to make sure the teaching staff has access to professional development and make Los Olivos even better than it already is,” she said. Dudeck plans to create an early learning academy where teachers are collaborating to give students chances to advance in their studies, or more attention to those who need it most. “Not every kid is the same. Some develop quickly while others need more room to grow. We want to ensure the kids by third grade are all meeting the necessary levels for a successful educational career,” Dudeck said. She also looks forward to meeting people at Back to School night on Thursday, Aug. 22. She is already transitioning into a country lifestyle by taking horseback riding lessons at Nojoqui Horse Ranch, and she hopes to get her horse into shape to do cutting and reining. “I have fallen in love with this community and look forward to being a part of it,” she said.

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26 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 27

o SYHS ATHLETICS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

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The new athletic director at Santa Ynez High School, Ashley Coelho, is also the wide-receivers coach with the junior varsity football team

is the Olympic-size swimming pool and new aquatic center on campus. “The new aquatic center would be a huge bonus to our swimming and water polo programs,” Coelho said. “That’s on our priority (list) right now. We are in a good place right now with the new aquatic center and getting the plans and getting the funds to make it all happen.” Other goals include establishing a student-athlete leadership council, having coaches take their entire teams to games to support another Pirates’ teams, and encouraging athletes to play multiple

sports. “My big goal, it doesn’t matter if it’s a year, five years or 10 years out, is how can I get the community and the youth more involved in our school,” Coelho said. “We want Pirate Pride from the getgo. So, when kids get here as a freshman, they are already happy to be Pirates.” Avery said that Coelho is a great choice for the school district. “She’s one of the hardest-working coaches, she’s a leader and a respected educator on campus. If anyone can do the job, she can.”

WE TREAT YOUR PROPERTIES AS OUR OWN!

o SB COUNTY FARM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22 “The fact that they all said yes right away means that it was something they knew was important,” Maranville said,. Spurring her on was a speech by Ventura County Farm Bureau leader John Krist. “He said, ‘If you want to help local agriculture, you have to educate the general public,’” she said. Some growers with operations in Ventura County suggested something similar in Santa Barbara County, telling Maranville, “We see the benefits. We love the event. We think it’s making a difference in how the general public perceives us — that we’re not these bad people. That we’re trying to feed them,” she said. Lined up for this year’s event are Babé Farms, Bonipak (also Betteravia Farms), Rancho Laguna Farms, Main Street Produce, Reiter Affiliated Companies, Primus Lab, Plantel Nursery, Innovative Produce, Riverbench Winery, Tres Hermanas Vineyard and Winery, Engel & Gray and Allan Hancock College. While the tour is free, the event also will include a Santa Maria-style farm-to-table dinner on Sept. 27 with tickets costing $100 and available online. Next year’s Farm Day likely will span the entire county and include more locations, Maranville said. “I’m confident that once these growers interact with the general public and they see

that they have an authentic interest in local agriculture by the questions they ask and the comments, that word will get out and the sponsorships will follow,” she said. While the event is free, organizers are seeking sponsors, with information listed on the Farm Day website and other advertising. Eventually, she would like to grow Farm Day into San Luis Obispo County, possibly as soon as 2020, and later Monterey County. Babé Farms, which was started in 1986 by three couples, now includes the Lundbergs, his “mostly retired” mom, Judy, plus son and daughter, students Eddie and Karli, who likely will be on hand at Farm Day. “It was a family business and still is a family business,” Lundberg said, adding that he considers the firm’s employees as family. The farming firm recently received the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce Large Business of the Year Award. “We’re going to step in slow this year and see how it goes,” Lundberg said. “I’m hoping that it’s well attended, and I think it will blow up from there after a few other farmers see what it does. I think it’s going to just do nothing but help the farmers’ persona in the public’s eye.” Noozhawk North County editor Janene Scully can be reached at jscully@noozhawk.com.

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28 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

SYHS building indoor cafeteria, filling in ‘The Pit’ By Raiza Giorgi publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com

s the summer comes to an end, students at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School will have to navigate alternative routes across campus as construction crews complete various projects. One of the most noticeable projects will be at “The Pit,” the area in front of the New Gym, which will be filled in and replaced by a courtyard. Improvements are also being made to the cafeteria, with the addition of an indoor seating area. “Aside from a few events that occurred in The Pit, no one really used this space. We asked the kids and talked to them about what they would like, and the courtyard option was the best liked,” said Superintendent Scott Cory as he gave a tour of the new construction. Cory, who is a graduate of SYHS, said filling in The Pit will be bittersweet, as he has memories of sitting there at lunch and for football events. However, he added, the new courtyard will be a great space and create better traffic flow. “Having the space for the kids to sit inside as well will be very nice during hot days or rainy weather. This will also create a great space for the community to use when school isn’t in session,” Cory said. The construction has that area in front of the New Gym cordoned off, so students wanting to walk from the locker rooms will have to walk onto the track and around the back side of the gym to get to classrooms or other facilities. The kitchen is also being affected. Restaurant class instructor Jimmy Palacios has been

seating areas. The construction of the courtyard and the indoor seating is not part of Measure K bond funds. It is being funded by an influx of developer fees, Cory said. The cafeteria will be 2,433 square feet once completed, adding 1,379 square feet and, depending on furnishing, will seat about 250 people. The work is being completed by Klassen Corp. of Bakersfield, which was awarded a $4.4 million contract to complete a long list of remodeling of the multipurpose building, which includes the music room, cafeteria and foyer. The scope of their work is demolition, underground utilities, underpinning, parking Photo contributed An artist’s rendering shows the courtyard that will replace “The Pit” in front of the New Gym on the high school campus. lot striping, excavation and shoring of the E building as well as construction of the cafeteria seating, replacing roofing and windows. Also included are all the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access points in front of the school, which needed to be updated to current standards. Quincon Inc. was awarded a contract for $200,000 for restroom renovations in the E building, which is using Measure K funding. Cory said he is expecting to receive about $7.2 million in Proposition 51 state funding for more renovations and upgrades, although he isn’t sure when. “That money will be used for updating the Construction at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School includes expanding the cafeteria and filling in “The Pit” to create a courtyard. locker rooms that desperately need it,” Cory said. figuring out the plan for feeding students in changes, but once the facility is done, it will be Most of the “noisy” construction should be the morning and at lunch time by prepping in so nice,” Cory said. done before school is in session, he said during the kitchen and then serving from the football When the project is completed, Cory added, the recent tour, and although there might be stadium food court. the school will have a grand opening so the periods of increased noise, he hopes it won’t affect classroom instruction. “Jimmy has been great in adapting to the community can see the new courtyard and

o THE BAKERY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 as an executive chef for two different sororities, where I worked for almost five years.” Fleming recalled the day her accountant mentioned something about the “California (Homemade) Food Act” that Governor Brown signed into law in 2012. “Cooking and baking in a home for outside sales was illegal at the time. The Cottage Food Law allows people, within certain parameters, to cook food from their own home kitchen and sell it to stores and to the public. It also allows people to build a clientele before entering into a brick and mortar store. Most new restaurants and bakeries fail within the first year. But the Cottage Food Law offered me the opportunity to do my own baking, in my own kitchen, and sell it to the public. So we opened the Bakery Farmstand.” Landon, who is a builder, created the little outpost in the garden, constructing the bakery stand, the tables and the pergolas, transforming the garden into a perfect spot for outdoor dining, a place where people can relax and enjoy themselves and savor excellent food. “I only do small affairs, like pre-wedding dinners, or small get-togethers, by appointment only,” said Fleming. “We are open to the public on Saturday mornings. Glenn tends to be the face and Saturday morning leader, because I am often so busy in the kitchen replenishing the stand with our baked goods for the girls to sell to customers. I am eternally grateful to our employees for their kindness and great service to our customers. Glenn is a huge asset to the success of each Saturday

morning that we are open. All I want to do is bake.” “I do a lot of private parties and I also teach people how to prepare meals,” she continued. “For example I go to a person’s home who is having an intimate dinner for 6 people, let’s say. I demonstrate how the food is prepared and then I place the food on the table and quietly leave. I also teach both culinary and baking classes to small groups of people in my kitchen or privately. I also do a themed dinner in July and one in October.” “Food is a universal language. You can go anywhere in the world and cook with people with no words necessary. Everyone needs to eat. A familial atmosphere is what is important to me. Our little business has grown so organically and beautifully over the past 6 years. It amazes me that I can do what I am doing at this point in my life. I have been cooking and baking for more than 40 years. I enjoy what I’m doing now even more than I loved working at all the wonderful positions I’ve held during my career,” Fleming said. “I now have a funky little stand in my garden and I love it.” The Bakery Farmstand is on Santa Barbara Avenue near the corner of Olivet Avenue in Los Olivos. Look for the little wooden sign out front. For more information, call 805-252-9866 or follow them on Instagram, @thebakeryfarmstand. People who sign up for their newsletter receive a weekly email with their menu, which changes weekly.

August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 29

NOW PR OVIDING

NEWS / TALK RADIO o n 10 6 . 3 F M t o t h e SANTA YNEZ VALLEY

30 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

Country stars Big & Rich to perform at casino

Staff Report

ountry stars Big & Rich will bring their â&#x20AC;&#x153;Peace, Love & Happy Hour Tourâ&#x20AC;? to the Chumash Casino Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Samala Showroom at 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23. Individually, Big Kenny and John Rich are first-rate musicians, songwriters, producers and entertainers. Prior to their formation, Rich was a bass guitarist in the country band Lonestar, while Kenny was a solo artist for Hollywood Records. Together, these â&#x20AC;&#x153;technicolor cowboysâ&#x20AC;? break the boundaries with their high energy and originality. The duo released their first album, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Horse of a Different Color,â&#x20AC;? in 2004. Their debut single, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wild West Show,â&#x20AC;? peaked at No. 21 on the Billboard country music charts. Their second single, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy),â&#x20AC;? not only peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard country music charts, but the music video was the most-requested on the television networks Country Music Television and Great American Country for four consecutive weeks. ESPN also used the song as the theme music for its World Series of Poker. In 2005, their second albumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s debut single, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cominâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; To Your City,â&#x20AC;? was used by ESPN for its Saturday program, â&#x20AC;&#x153;College Game Day.â&#x20AC;? A few years later, the duo released their third studio album, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace.â&#x20AC;? The albumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first single, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lost in this Moment,â&#x20AC;? was their only No. 1 single, spending two weeks at the top of the country music charts. Over the next decade, the duo went on to release two more studio albums and founded

Photos contributed Big Kenny and John Rich, together known as Big & Rich, will be at the Chumash Casino on Aug. 23.

98 Degrees coming to casino in December

their own record label, Big & Rich Records. Tickets are $69, $74, $79, $89 and $99. They are available at the casino or online at www.chumashcasino.com.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lost â&#x20AC;&#x2122;80s Liveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; showcases new-wave hits The Lost â&#x20AC;&#x2122;80s Live Tour will bring back a decade of big hair, neon and synthesizers at 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, at the Samala Showroom. The annual â&#x20AC;&#x2122;80s-era tour is making its first appearance the Chumash Casino Resort with a lineup featuring a blend of English and American new-wave artists who were mainstays on MTV during the networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heyday.

The show includes performances by A Flock of Seagulls (â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Ranâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Space Age Love Songâ&#x20AC;?), Missing Persons (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wordsâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Walking in L.A.â&#x20AC;?), Wang Chung (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dance Hall Daysâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everybody Have Fun Tonightâ&#x20AC;?), Bow Wow Wow (â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Want Candyâ&#x20AC;?), The Escape Club (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wild, Wild Westâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Be Thereâ&#x20AC;?), Real Life (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Send Me an Angelâ&#x20AC;?), The Vapors (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Turning Japaneseâ&#x20AC;?), The Motels (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Only the Lonelyâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Suddenly Last Summerâ&#x20AC;?), Boys Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Cry (â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Wanna Be a Cowboyâ&#x20AC;?) and Farrington & Mann â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the original members of When in Rome UK (â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Promiseâ&#x20AC;?). Tickets for the show are $69, $74, $79, $89 and $99, available at the casino or at www. chumashcasino.com.

The Lost â&#x20AC;&#x2122;80s Live Tour is making its first appearance at the Chumash Casino Resort on Aug. 30.

Tickets are now on sale for December performances by â&#x20AC;&#x2122;90s pop group 98 Degrees and comedian Felipe Esparza at the casino. 98 Degrees, featuring vocalists Nick and Drew Lachey, Justin Jeffre and Jeff Timmons, will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Tickets are $49, $59, $69, $74 and $79. Esparza, who rose to stardom as the 2010 winner of the NBC TV series â&#x20AC;&#x153;Last Comic Standing,â&#x20AC;? will bring his stand-up act to the Samala Showroom at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20. Tickets are $19, $29, $39, $49 and $59.

We hope that you can join us for the

Cowboy Ball Sept. 14 at 5:00

Celebrating 30 years of healing with horses at the beautiful Happy N Ranch in Buellton Dinner by chef Alfonso Curti of Trattoria Ulivetto, Wine by Brick Barn wine estate. Local beer and music by Montgomery Dougherty.

Tickets are$125 Live, silent and cake auctions!

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Call (805)325-1544 www.syvtherapeuticriding.org.events

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AFRICAN PARTY

RANCH in collaboration with

2019

AT THE

An evening of authentic African Cuisine & lively marimba music at

RESTORATION OAKS RANCH to Support the Barnabas Migisha Project September 15, 2019 5:00 - 8:00pm

August 20 - September 2, 2019 H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H Santa Ynez Valley Star H 31

SYHS Board Meeting - 4 p.m. - The regularly scheduled meetings are held in Board Room, Administration Office, Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, 2975 East Highway 246 Women’s Leadership Series - 5:15 - 7 p.m. at The Landsby - The topic of this meeting is “Your Network is Your Net Worth- Putting It All Together”. Classes are free to all SYV chamber members, and $15 for nonmembers. Refreshments and light food will be served. Visit www.solvangcc.com.

p.m. at the Wildling Museum of Art and Nature - Learn how to make a colorful garland of origami cranes and butterflies with decorative beads and crystal accents. Cost is $45 per person, all included. Visit www.wildlingmuseum. org for more. Live Music at Brick Barn Wine Estate - 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. Join us on the patio with your favorite wines while listening to the sounds of Jim Becker. Star Wars: A New Hope- 4:30 p.m. at the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande. The Central Coast Film Society is hosting AG native Ken Napzock for his recent book release and screening of the film. Costumes encouraged and food will be available for purchase by Country Gardens Catering (25% of proceeds benefit the Buellton Senior Center). To purchase tickets visit www.clarkcenter.org/event/starwars-iv-a-new-hope/.

August 21

August 27

To submit an event for publication, email the information to news@santaynezvalley star.com. To see more information online, go to www.santaynezvalleystar.com.

August 20

Solvang Music in the Park - 5 - 8 p.m. Come listen to live music by Bear Market Riot at Solvang Park. Concert is free to the public, bring a blanket or chair and enjoy!

August 22

American Idol Auditions - All day in Santa Barbara Must be 15 - 28 and a legal US resident, other eligibility requirements apply. Visit www.americanidol.com for more info.

August 23 Summer Concert Series at Firestone Vineyard - 6 9 p.m. - Grab your blanket and picnic basket – it’s time for the Summer Concert Series! Join us for wine, sunshine, and music throughout the summer. Admission is free and no RSVP required. SYHS Football Game - 7 p.m. at SYHS Football Field - The Pirates battle Nipomo High School for the first home game of the season. Big n Rich - 8 p.m. at the Chumash Casino - Don’t miss the modern Country music duo perform an electrifying concert with their biggest hits including “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy,” “Comin’ to Your City”. Visit www.chumashcasino.com for more info.

August 24

Origami Peace and Harmony Garland Class - 1 - 3

The Lone Woman - 4 - 7 p.m. at the SY HIstorical Museum - John R. Johnson, Ph.D., Curator of Anthropology at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, and Susan Morris, a historical researcher and expert on the Lone Woman, will present current research about Juana Maria’s life. Recent archaeological discoveries and historical research have uncovered new details which help us to understand why she may have remained on San Nicolas Island – perhaps not so alone as previously believed. Visit www.santaynezmuseum.org for more info.

August 28

Solvang Music in the Park - 5 - 8 p.m. Come listen to live music by the SYV Jazz Band at Solvang Park. Concert is free to the public, bring a blanket or chair and enjoy! 3rd District Supervisor Office Hours - 12-2 p.m. In solvang, 1745 Mission Dr.

August 29

The Importance of Being Earnest opens at Solvang Festival Theater - 8 p.m. - Enjoy a fun-filled summer of musicals and comedies under the stars in the Solvang Festival Theater, 420 Second Street, Solvang. Visit www.pcpa.org for tickets.

Residential • Commerical • Industrial

August 30

Summer Concert Series at Firestone Vineyard - 6 - 9 p.m. - Grab your blanket and picnic basket – it’s time for the Summer Concert Series! Join us for wine, sunshine, and music throughout the summer. Admission is free and no RSVP required.

at the MOXI - 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. www.moxi.org. Preschool Story Time - 10:30 a.m. at Solvang Library. Two-Step Dance Lessons – 6:30 p.m.; 8 p.m. - Industry Night and Karaoke Party. Maverick Saloon, 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez. Visit www. themavsaloon.com.

Lost 80’s Live - 8 p.m. - Tease your hair high, pop your collar and come see the tour four decades in the making with performances by Flock of Seagulls, Bow Wow Wow, The Escape Club, Wang Chung and more. Visit www.chumashcasino.com for more.

SYV We Support the Troops – 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Volunteer to pack care packages on the 4th Wednesday of each month. Bethania Lutheran Church, 603 Atterdag Road, Solvang. 805-245-4951. Art Class, 9 a.m.; Book Club, 10 a.m. (call first); Bingo, 1 p.m.: Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive; 805-688-3793. Knit and Crochet - 1 p.m., Buellton Senior Center, West Highway 246, Buellton; 805-688-4571. Healing Hearts Support Group – 2-4 p.m. Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church, 1825 Alamo Pintado Road. Free. To R.S.V.P. call 805-693-0244. Solvang Farmers Market - 2:30-6:30 p.m., First Street between Mission Drive and Copenhagen Drive, Solvang. Crafternoons – 3:45-5:45 p.m. Arts Outreach, 2948 Nojoqui Ave. Suite 9, Los Olivos. $10/child; 805-6889533.

August 31

Every Thursday

Live Music at Brick Barn Wine Estate - 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. - Join us on the patio with your favorite wines while listening to the sounds of Nataly Lola. Free Movie Night screening “Dumbo” - 8 p.m. at the SYV Marriott in Buellton. Snacks, Food, and Drinks will be sold. Free Popcorn, and Pet Friendly.

September 1

Live Music at Brick Barn Wine Estate - 1:30 4:30 p.m. - Join us on the patio with your favorite wines while listening to the sounds of Jacob Cole.

September 2 Labor Day

Continuing Events Every Monday

Yoga, 9 a.m.; Arthritis Exercise Class, 10:15 a.m.; Arts and Crafts every third Monday; Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive; 805-688-3793. Divorce Care Recovery Seminar and Support Group – 6:30-8:30 p.m. Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy Library, 891 N. Refugio Road, Santa Ynez; Louise Kolbert at 805-688-5171.

Every Tuesday

Computer class, 9 a.m., Knitting, 9:30 a.m.; Tai Chi, 11 a.m.; bridge and poker, 12:45 p.m.; Mah Jongg 1 p.m., Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive; 805-688-3793. Toddler Tuesdays

Every Wednesday

Sideways Inn Local’s Night Specials 5 p.m.- 8 p.m., 114 East Highway 246, Buellton; 805-6918088. Chair Exercises - 10 a.m., Buellton Senior Center, West Highway 246, Buellton; 805-688-4571. Arthritis Exercise Class, 10:15 a.m.; Mah Jongg, Noon; Basic Cartooning, 1 p.m., Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive; 805-688-3793. Brain Injury Survivors of Santa Ynez Valley - Noon-2 p.m., Bethania Lutheran Church, 603 Atterdag Road, Solvang. Jodi House Brain Injury Support Center offers a support group for brain injury survivors and caregivers; www.jodihouse.org.

Every Friday

Nutrition Classes - 11 a.m. - SYV Cottage Hospital Conference Room - Instruction Stacey Bailey is a dietician and offers weekly courses in various topics. For more information call 805-694-2351. Bring your lunch and talk nutrition. Tai Chi, 9:15 a.m.; Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.; Pilates – 10:15 a.m.; Ukulele 11:15 a.m., Solvang Senior Center, 1745 Mission Drive; 805-688-3793. Bingo - 1 p.m., Buellton Senior Center, West Highway 246, Buellton; 805-688-4571.

Every Saturday

Cachuma Lake Nature Walk – 10-11:30 a.m.; 805-6884515 or www.sbparks.org. Junior Rangers Program – 12:30-1:30 p.m. Neal Taylor Nature Center, 2265 Highway 154. Children 3 and up; under 10 years must be accompanied by an adult. $3/person. Nature Center admission is free. Visit www.clnaturecenter.org.

Every Sunday He

Lic. #738011

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ng • A l•I /C • Sheet Meta

805-688-0321 • www.jrbarto.com Celebrating 30 years in business

Look for the ANT on the Door

Free Gopher & Rodent Estimates Same Day Service M-F

Eco Smart Products 805-688-7855 www.oconnorpest.com

Brunch at The Landsby - 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. - They now accept reservations on Open Table app for the dining room and Mad & Vin patio starting at 7.30 am. For more info visit www.thelandsby.com.

Coming up

Log onto www.cityofsolvang.com, www.buelltonrec. com or www.visitsyv.com to see a full schedule of programs and events that range from adult and youth sports to teen dances, field trips, excursions and more.

32 H Santa Ynez Valley Star H www.santaynezvalleystar.com H August 20 - September 2, 2019

$2,850,000 | 1240 Cougar Ridge Rd, Buellton | 5BD/5½BA; 20± acs Laura Drammer | 805.448.7500

Lic # 01209580

$2,150,000 | 2860 Woodstock Rd, Santa Ynez | 4BD/3BA Sharon Currie | 805.448.2727 Lic # 01357602

$1,695,000 | 959 Old Ranch Rd, Solvang | 4BD/4BA Claire Hanssen / Carole Colone | 805.680.0929 / 805.708.2580 Lic # 00887277 / 01223216

$1,300,000 | 1135 Edison St, Santa Ynez | 3BD/3BA Glynnis Mullenary | 805.705.5206 Lic # 01748187

$1,275,000 | 1030 Highland Rd, Santa Ynez | 3BD/2BA Mathew Raab | 805.705.5486 Lic # 02063526

$995,000 | 465 Bell St, Los Alamos | Commercial Brett Ellingsberg | 805.729.4334 Lic # 01029715

$949,000 | 2905 Bramadero Rd, Los Olivos | 9± acs Nina Stormo / Sharon Currie | 805.729.4754 / 805.448.2727 Lic # 01341678 / 01357602

$949,000 | 1243 Hans Park Trl, Solvang | 4BD/4BA Deanna Harwood | 805.325.1452 Lic # 00999839

$875,000 | 806 Creekside Pl, Solvang | 3BD/2½BA Karin Aitken | 805.252.1205 Lic # 00882496

$789,000 | 2727 San Marcos Ave, Los Olivos | 3BD/2BA

$629,000 | 2213 Keenan Rd, Los Olivos | 1.28± acs Marlene Macbeth | 805.689.2738 Lic # 00689627

$595,000 | 2415 Cebada Canyon Rd, Lompoc | 20± acs Brad Berch | 805.680.9415 Lic # 01244576

$435,000 | 157 Val Verde, Solvang | 2BD/2BA Karin Aitken | 805.252.1205 Lic # 00882496

$4,695,000 | 3170 Avenida Caballo, Santa Ynez | 3BD/4½BA; 20±acs Mary Elliott / Joe Ramos | 805.682.3242

$3,975,000 | 7055 Foxen Canyon Rd, Los Alamos | 3BD/3½BA+Office; 100± acs

$1,695,000 | 4001 Long Valley Rd, Santa Ynez | 3BD/2BA+GH

Laura Drammer | 805.448.7500 Lic # 01209580

Lic # 01975165 / 02040488

Carole Colone / Claire Hanssen | 805.708.2580 / 805.680.0929

Lic # 01223216 / 00887277

Nina Stormo / Sharon Currie | 805.729.4754 / 805.448.2727

Lic # 01341678 / 01357602

MONTECITO | SANTA BARBARA | LOS OLIVOS

Do you know your home’s value? visit bhhscalifornia.com

©2018 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Info. is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Sellers will entertain and respond to all offers within this range. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. Lic# 01317331